In these times of duality—of community and isolation, of uncertainty and grounding, maintaining and rebuilding—creating an intentional approach to cultivating grounding and alleviating the symptoms of anxiety is crucial.
1. Meditation Practices
–Overthinking, detachment, reframing and grounding. Channel and create a routine that gives your body time to process what it is taking in.
2. Write out Intentions
–Make meaning of the discomfort and uncertainty. What do you want to do with your family tonight? What do you need to make time for? What parts of your wellness have you not made time for lately?
3. Box Breathing
–This technique, which is used by Navy Seals in high stress situations, involves exhaling to a count of four, holding your lungs for a count of four, then inhaling at the count of four, before exhaling at the count of four and repeating the pattern.
4. Express yourself!
–Cathartic release can have a profound impact on not just our physical and mental well being, but in a spiritual manner as well. Dance, sing, write, paint, draw, complete a crossword, watch stand-up. Activate your mind in a way that gives the restlessness a chance to be challenged.
5. Start a gratitude practice.
Wake to one thought of something you’re grateful for. Be intentional about compliments and specifically thanking those around you. Especially if you’re feeling fatigued, connection is an intrinsic motivator.
If you have other suggestions, or tips that have worked for you, I’d love to hear them.
Stay safe and well!