Take a deep breath. In, and out. Feel that pit in your stomach? Yeah, that’s anxiety. This mental issue is a plague that consumes our bustling, workaholic country like wildfire. Especially for college students, anxiety is a serious issue that often goes unnoticed and untreated — pushed into the shade by more “serious” issues like depression and eating disorders. But the truth is, anxiety can take just as damaging a toll on your body if you let it. As a previous sufferer of severe anxiety, I’m here to tell you that yes, it is an important issue and yes, it is possible to extinguish if you use the right tactics. I am living proof that it’s possible to relieve your mind of anxiety, and here I’m going to share five simple ways you can find your inner zen, too!
1. Write. You spend so much time getting to know others, but how often do you stop to get to know yourself? Writing down your thoughts once a day is incredibly stress-relieving and can take less than five minutes. You owe yourself that. Whether it’s an online blog or a written journal, take some time to reflect on each day. You’ll be surprised how much you learn about yourself!
2. Meditate. Believe it or not, it is scientifically proven that meditation decreases the amount of beta waves in your brain. And if you’re not a scientist, this basically means that your brain processes less information afterward. This contributes to better concentration, more creativity, and yes — less anxiety. If you’re a beginner, I recommend downloading the “Stop, Breathe & Think” app. It includes short, simple guided meditations, and it’s free!
3. Exercise. You’ve heard it a million times, and that’s because it’s true: exercise is the key to a healthy lifestyle. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America states that exercise is “very effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration, and at enhancing overall cognitive function.” So find an exercise routine that works for you, and stick to it!
4. Appreciate nature. Taking a walk outside does wonders for the body and mind — we have a lot to learn from Mother Earth. Fresh air, peace, and quiet can all help to relieve the stress we accumulate from the constant noise and business of daily life.
5. Cultivate a good environment. Always surround yourself with positive souls and good vibes. Positivity is contagious, and an environment is only stressful if you let it be. Whenever you’re around a negative person, be compassionate and don’t let their bad day become yours. But in the long run, good energy attracts good energy, so always try your best to be positive!
Images courtesy of lewishowes.com, tumblr.com, mindbodycoach.org, akisuomela.com, wallpapers.mi9.com, and Britt Boyle.