The American Dream is currently getting overshadowed by a gloomy and dark cloud. While 2020 is behind us, the year has left many with scars. From economic instability to a global pandemic, is it any wonder why we’re all stressed right now?
Recent surveys show 60% of adults feel “overwhelmed” by the number of issues America faces. About 8 in 10 say the pandemic is a source of stress in their daily lives.
Calming down isn’t as simple as having good thoughts in a time of crisis, though. This is especially true if you suffer from anxiety or panic attacks. Read on to learn five quick and effective ways to calm down and refocus your energy.
1. Get Grounded
When stress overwhelms you, you’ll start to notice some tell-tale signs. Your blood pressure rises, you start to sweat, and you may even hyperventilate. You might shake and feel like you’re having a panic attack.
Grounding is the technique you should use to help bring you out of a panicked state. Here’s what to do:
- Identify 5 things you can see
- Name 4 things you can feel
- List out 3 things you can hear
- Name 2 things you can smell
- Identify 1 thing you’re tasting (or your favorite taste)
This 54321 technique helps you re-focus on your present state. This simple mindfulness tactic can stop a panic attack in its tracks.
2. Focus on Your Breathing
Often, our breathing happens unconsciously. When our minds start to race, we unknowingly start to breathe harder.
Practice mindfulness and start to consciously breathe. Try to encourage yourself to fill up your belly as you breathe in. This method can trick your brain into feeling calmer right away.
3. Hydrate
Do you expect your car to function at its best when the gas tank is empty? Set yourself up for success by using the same mindset when it comes to your body. You need to drink at least 8 cups of water a day to stay healthy!
Dehydration increases your risk of experiencing depression, anxiety, and stress.
4. Feed Your Body
You also need to ensure you’re eating enough and getting the nutrition you need. By feeding your body, you’re supporting your mental health.
Consider adding vitamins or nootropics to your diet to keep your body thriving. Are you unsure of how nootropics can help? Take a look at this link for more information.
5. Build New Habits
Calming down is one thing, but staying calm is another. Keep your anxiety and stress levels in check by starting to build new habits. Not only should you eat well and hydrate, but you need to exercise, too.
Calming Down One Step At A Time
Calming down sounds so simple when you’re level headed and in a good emotional space. It’s not so easy when you’re drowning in a sea of anxiety, fear, and stress, though.
Next time you start to feel panicked, use the methods above to help you find stability. Don’t let 2020 continue to haunt your year in 2021.
Are you looking for more awesome tips and tricks to help your family thrive this year? You’re in luck! Head over to our blog now to see more of our latest and greatest articles.