I have occasionally talked about mental health and anxiety here on the blog. I don’t often share that I have anxiety and depression, not out of fear or embarrassment, but because I often struggle to put it all into words. But lately it has been weighing heavily on me and I have felt compelled to share more. I want Living Taylored to feel like you are talking to a friend, a place you can turn to for recipes, fun finds, motivation and advice on things both light and heavy.

So today in an effort to be a bit more open and provide a safe place of help, I’m sharing the five things I do on days that my anxiety is quite high; things that help me settle my racing mind and calm my nerves.

Journal

Journaling in general has been a big help with my anxiety. I use a gratitude journal everyday and it helps me think of all I’m grateful for and all of the good in my life. It also helps me remember the things that I actually have control of and what I can change. So on particularly difficult days I spend a little more time journaling. I write out what is triggering my anxiety (if I can pinpoint it, but that isn’t always possible), then I like to note the things that are going well, the things that I have to look forward to.

Meditate

I started using the Headspace App several years ago (you can read my full review here) and while I don’t always use it regularly it is very helpful to turn to when I need it. They even have specific tracks for helping anxiety which I really love using. Sometimes I need something specific and sometimes I just need a soothing sound track to listen to while I try to relax.

Unplug

I have realized that the content I consume directly affects my mood. On days that I’m feeling particularly stressed or anxious I try to stay off of social media and avoid shows as well. Especially anything too heavy or emotional. I’m someone who feels things very deeply, so even watching an intense show can trigger my anxiety. But knowing this about myself makes a huge difference because I have learned when I need to unplug or step back and focus my energy elsewhere.

Move My Body

Being physically active always seems to help my anxiety. The times in my life that my anxiety has been at its lowest is when I was regularly running or going to the gym. It is so helpful to get out for a walk or even just fit in a short workout at home. The release of endorphins can help relieve stress and increase both mental and physical energy.

Make Time For Joy

On days that I’m struggling, it is really helpful to make time for something that brings me joy. This could be baking, reading, or painting. Sometimes I just need a few minutes to myself with a coffee or a nap while the kids nap. I try to listen to my body and figure out what will be most rejuvenating for me; what will actually allow me to rest, relax or recharge.

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Whether you are someone who struggles with anxiety or have a few anxious days here and there I hope you find this post helpful.

Please know that none of the above is a substitute for medical advice when it comes to treating anxiety. I have struggled with anxiety for most of my life and have been taking medication for it almost a decade now. I still have days, sometimes even weeks at a time, when I am struggling to maintain or handle my anxiety. However these five activities really help shift my train of thought and often help improve my mood.