I am one of those unfortunate people who can easily get wrapped up in her own thoughts and unable to stop over thinking every little part of my life. This can often lead to stress or an inevitable lack of sleep because I am reliving every awkward moment of my entire existence. Here is a list of the some of the ways that help me clear my thoughts and go on with my daily life -- without freaking myself out on a daily basis.
Now, everyone deals in different ways, and that is okay as long as those coping mechanisms are healthy. Being consumed by your own thoughts and anxieties can be one of the worst feelings in the world and these ways help me deal in a healthy manner.
1. Exercise.
I know people say it all the time, but exercise can actually help relieve anxiety and clear your mind. For me, I find that swimming and running help get my mind off of everything, or at least give me something else to focus on for the time being. My suggestion is to find whatever exercise works best to clear your head, no matter what it is.
2. Watching something dramatic or ridiculous on TV.
Most claim that these type of shows can be a waste of time, but nothing gets your mind off your own life like becoming completely absorbed into someone else’s. For me personally, "Game of Thrones" helps give me something to focus on, but even those cooking challenge shows on the Food Network do the trick.
3. Interact with other people.
I have learned that the worst thing I can do when I’m all caught up in my head is to be alone. When I’m by myself I am stuck in my own head, and let all my doubts and anxieties build. By talking to other people I can either get a distraction or I can talk out my thoughts or anxieties in order to stop them from consuming me.
4. Do a detail oriented task.
I love to draw and paint so when I am stressed and need to clear my head I create something new, that requires a lot of attention. By focusing my mind and energy on something else I allow the other thoughts to fade in the background and loose importance in my head.
5. Write out your thoughts.
Now, personally I have never been the type to keep a journal. However, sometimes when I am truly upset I try to sit down and write everything that I am thinking and feeling. Somehow getting it all down on a piece of paper makes me feel more free -- as if the thoughts are no longer stuck in my head.
6. Listen to music.
The song or the band might change depending on my mood or my anxiety at the time, but no matter what I am listening to music always helps me. It can either distract me, or make me confront what I am feeling. Music also can have the power to help me think things through and give me the strength to overcome my thoughts.
