Unfortunately, anxiety is way too common in this generation. With such a fast-paced society and new technology faster than the speed of light, we can get pretty 'out of the moment.' We want everything now. We can find ourselves running from one thing to the next, skipping over the little joys life gives to us for free. We miss out on so much love and beauty by being so caught up in those powerful, racing, anxious, overwhelming thoughts that bombard the thinking mind.
It's easy to get caught up in your thoughts. It's crazy how your anxiety can convince you that nothing is reality besides what's in your head. Although anxiety is common, that does not mean it is normalized. Nothing is healthy about anxiety. Just because a lot of people are dealing with it across the world, does not mean it is not serious or not detrimental to your health. Please seek help. It is crazy how just talking to a therapist feels like weight off your shoulders. Maybe medication is what works with your mind and body; or yoga and meditation is what resonates the best with you. There are so many different outlets of help, and you deserve to live a life without anxiety. You do not have to worry every time you wake up. You don't have to feel paranoid every time you're out in public. You deserve to be at ease and you are strong enough to get help.
With that being said, here are a few essentials that require no medical help or assistance. These aren't meant to cure your anxiety, but rather give you some ease and help along your journey of recovery and self-love. Sometimes you don't need a huge 'thing' to fix something. Sometimes, it's the little things you do consistently everyday that help heal you.
1. Pack of Chewing Gum
If you are a lip biter, this is ESSENTIAL. Nothing is more painful than having little cuts in your inner lip. Chewing gum forbids you from biting your lip, and this movement can be kind of relaxing. Be aware of how you chew your gum. Notice if you are chewing it really fast. Focus on slowing down and feeling your teeth slowly bite down into your gum. This can be a great mindful practice.
2. Essential Oils
This has been a life savor for me, especially before classes or big events. Having a handy essential oil roller is something I recommend greatly!! I will roll my Lavender essential oil under my nose, so through out the day I can relax by taking in the smell of sweet Lavender. Taking deep inhales of relaxing essential oils is so beneficial for your mind and body. Just by smelling certain smells, it can signal your body to calm down. You can do the whole 9 yards by setting up a diffuser with different essential oils as well. (It also makes a nice, natural perfume with no toxins!)
3. Water
Fresh air and water are so important for someone who is overwhelmingly anxious at the moment. When you are going out, do yourself a favor and don't forget to carry along a water bottle with you. To school, going out with friends, or just relaxing at home, making sure you have water assessable to you at all times is important. Even knowing you have water with you when you're out is more reassuring too.
4. Headphones
Carry around headphones in your bag. You never know when you might need to tune out the world and focus on a song that can help bring you back from an anxiety attack. There's nothing like your favorite song to help escape those anxiety provoked thoughts.
5. Significant Object
Make sure to have a physical item that can help remind you what is important and what truly matters. Maybe it's a bracelet with your favorite mantra written across it, or a necklace with a symbol that means a lot to you. For me personally, I make sure to drop a few of my favorite crystals in my pocket to carry with me throughout the day. These tangible items help us remember the peace and love in each moment by having something to physically hold and look.
6. Fidget Item
We all can find ourselves fidgeting with our pencil, biting our nails, picking at a scab, etc. It's important to have an item with you that you can fidget with. You can use a stress ball to release any extra energy you have built up inside you. You can wear a cool ring that you can twist and play with. They also have invented this cool fidget cube!
Take a deep breath. Relax your shoulders. Release tension from your face and body. Have an amazing day.
