Six Everyday Ways to Reduce Anxiety

Everyday ways to reduce anxiety . . .

I’m sure I’m not the only one fighting overwhelm. Rather than fall prey to fear, I’m focusing on everyday ways to reduce anxiety and prioritize the good. Please don’t get me wrong. We’re taking this very seriously, but I refuse to let the confusion and chaos dictate my mental state. Can you relate? Here are six ways to find the happy things, reduce anxiety and stay sane during necessary days of quarantine + social distancing.

Start the Day with Meditation

I love starting my day with a quick yoga practice. Sarah Beth Yoga has a great selection of YouTube videos, varying in time, yoga style and skill level. I’ll link one of my favorite morning yoga videos below. There are modifications in the video for all skill levels. You’ll just need stretchy pants + a workout mat (this one has great reviews!).

 

Get Outside

Without fail, a dose of fresh air and sunshine can instantly improve my mood. I’ve made it a goal to get outside whenever we can–for an afternoon walk, sidewalk chalk coloring or a lunchtime picnic. If you can’t leave your home, why not open a window or spend some time on the balcony. There’s no better time to soak up and enjoy the benefits of the great outdoors.

Limit Your Time Online

It’s no secret that social media can sometimes be a bad thing. I’ve noticed lately that the more time I spend online, the more stressed I feel. There are two ways to combat this. One, leave your phone in a drawer so you don’t get tempted by mindless surfing. Two, set screen time limits via the settings function on your phone.

Here’s how to set that up on your iPhone: Go into ‘Settings’ app. Click ‘Screen Time’ to see your daily usage report. Next, select ‘App Limits’ and ‘Add Limit’ to specify which apps/categories you’d like to adjust. After selecting the apps/categories, click ‘Next’ and set the time limit. Finish by selecting ‘Add’ in the top right corner. You can adjust and update these settings at any time by going through these steps again.

Instead of endless scrolling, why not pick up a book or a magazine? I have a stack beside my bed that I’ve been meaning to peruse. Are you in the same boat?

Nest, Declutter + Rearrange

Since we’re spending a lot of time at home these days, I’m making it as comfortable as possible. I came up with a list of DIY projects, places to organize, furniture to rearrange + ways to minimize, and I try to tackle one thing each day. These simple home improvements are equally good for my mind (helps me feel in control of something) and good for our living space.

Psst! Why not take some time to update your gallery wall? I shared a simple how-to in this post here. Plus, you can get 20% OFF some of my favorite travel-inspired photos with code ENJOY20. I’ve been using Costco’s HOME DELIVERY option to have  prints delivered directly to my door.

Unwind in the Kitchen

Turn up the music, open a crispy can of Diet Coke, whip up a favorite dish or try something new. I find cooking to be so therapeutic, especially now that ordering take-out has it’s own challenges. I’ve rounded up a few recipes using pantry staples that you probably have on hand.

FBT Pantry Faves:
Almost Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies
Lemon Poppy-Seed Muffins
Munch Mix (sweet + salty!)
30 Minute Italian Chili

Recipes from Around the Web:
Pantry Pasta by The Pioneer Woman
S’mores Bark (super kid-friendly!)
Jamie Oliver’s Pasta Frittata
Easy Flatbread Recipe (turn it into mini pizzas)
Chickpea Salad Sandwiches via Love and Lemons
10 Minute Veggie Fried Rice

End the day with Journaling

At the beginning of the year, I started journaling. My One-Line-A-Day journal has made all the difference. It requires minimal commitment (guys, I’m talking a couple sentences at most). It’s such an easy way to share a thought at the end of each day.

How are YOU, friends?
Feel free to reach out on Instagram or send a email–I’m always happy to chat!