Do you look for ways to cope with stress and anxiety?
Stress and anxiety are soul-sucking vampires. They’re silent day-ruiners that slowly creep into your life.
Actually, when this is happening, you’re body is trying to protect you. It is as if you have a meter inside your body measuring your daily activities. When you’re feeling stress and anxiety, your meter is reading, “SYSTEM OVERLOAD!!!”
You’re either doing too much and/or you are not dealing with some emotional aspect of your life. Either way, stress and anxiety is a bummer. It is something that requires tools, tips, and lots of trial and error.
Everyone has different ways of coping with stress and anxiety. As someone who experiences stress and anxiety on the reg, I want to share some of my own tips. I use each of these monthly and at various times, depending on where I am and what I am going through.
I am going to share with you 7 ways that I cope with stress and anxiety.
7 Ways to Cope with Stress and Anxiety
Stop The Caffeine Overload
If you are a coffee-lover like myself, raise your hand! Even if you don’t drink coffee, I am sure there is another way you’re seeping caffeine into your veins to attack the daily grind. Tea, power drinks, soda, etc. Whatever your choice is, an easy way to lessen your stress and anxiety is to do a system check.
Although caffeine helps us get goin’, too much of it can cause an adverse affect. It can make us jittery, high strung, and nervous. When you’re dealing with stress and anxiety, this just adds fuel to the fire. So, if you are a caffeine freak like me, cut it in half. It can’t do anything but help!
When I feel the need to cope with stress and anxiety, I switch to half caffeinated coffee. Therefore, I can still have my 3-4 cups a day. When I do this on days I know I will be stressed an anxious, I feel the difference.
If you are already three cups in and are jittery as heck, just grab some water and begin to chug! It will help because you are probably dehydrated.
Have A Go-To Playlist
Music can be a real asset on days you’re feeling the pressure. I feel that tunes can combat stress and anxiety because it alters your mindset. For me, music reminds me about who I am at the core. Not what life makes me feel like because of due dates, social expectations, and to-do lists.
People always say music is a universal language. I wholeheartedly believe this. Ever listen to a song and EVERY TIME you get chills down your arms? I have a handful of songs that can do that to me. It is magical. Especially when I belt out the lyrics as if the song was written for me.
Privately, of course, in my car… while sometimes stopped at a red light getting looks from others (ehh…whatevs). So, to cope with stress and anxiety, I highly recommend saving a playlist of songs that help you get out of a funk when stress and anxiety trickles on in.
Sometimes it is the beat. Most times, it is the lyrics for me. When you get a combination of both, it is pure heaven on earth. Find your tunes (country… gangsta rap… boy band music from middle school… old school rock, whatever works for you!).
For me? It’s upbeat music with inspirational lyrics and love songs. Anything positive. I have it titled “My Happy Playlist” in my Spotify app.
Get Up and Exercise
A great way to cope with stress and anxiety is to do a little bit of movement. Exercising can help lower stress. This is because when you work out your body produces endorphins. They are, in a way, natural painkillers.
Exercising can help your mind have a mental break from whatever events, people, or thoughts that have been causing stress and anxiety. Especially if you pop on your awesome “Go-To Playlist” I was just talking about!
It might even help if you work out with a friend or take an exercise class. Personally, I like to be alone when working out. But, I know many people exercise better with someone to keep them focused and motivated.
Now, I am not saying you NEED to go to the gym. I am not even saying you have to go for a run. Walking if a form of exercise. I like to take my dog on a long, long, long walk when my mind is going a million miles an hour.
Usually, I pop on an inspirational podcast to help me focus on something other than my nagging thoughts. It works! Key is… find what type of exercise works for you!
Talk to Your Designated People
Another way to cope with stress and anxiety is to know who to talk to when you need to share your thoughts. This one is key.
Many people with stress and anxiety tend to bottle their thoughts up. Heck no, do they want others to know what they’re feeling! Especially if you’re a people pleaser and worry about what others think of you. But, if you find the right people to talk to, it can be a remedy and help you center yourself.
DO NOT talk to just anyone. Why? There are always people that will not have your best interest at heart. They want to know “what’s wrong!?” because they’re nosey. They want to know the dirt. Drama seekers. Also, some people are just “fix it” people and want to dish out advice when you don’t even want it!
So, make a list. Maybe 5-10 people that you feel comfortable talking to when you have stress and anxiety.
Now, go back and take people off the list that…
- Are 1-uppers
- Only want to dish out advice
- Are not great listeners
- Do not validate your feelings
You want people who will hold the space in your conversation. It might be a spouse, a family member, or friend. Don’t count out a counselor or therapist! I have been seeing one for years and it is a game changer. Everyone is different.
Find what works for you!
Raise Your Vibrations
To cope with anxiety, you can also actively seek and attract positivity in your life. If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I love spreading all the good vibes.
My life has changed in so many ways due to immersing myself in this belief. The truth is, you have a choice when it comes to your perspective. Two people can look at the same situation and see different messages.
This is because of what each person is finding evidence for that day. For example, you begin your day and “everything goes wrong.” Your hair is unruly. The car is low on gas. You were cut off on your way to work…TWICE! Your key fell between the seat of your car.
Ok, that is all lame. But, the difference is in the choice you make when it comes to perspective. You can choose to:
- Decide today is a “bad day” and crappy things will just keep getting thrown at you.
- Decide that you had a few annoying things happen, but the rest of your day is going to rock your socks off.
Really. It is that simple.
You will find evidence for what you want. If you believe the day is horrible, you will notice every negative thing that happens. But, if you choose to focus on the good, you WILL find evidence of the positive.
Don’t believe me? Try it yourself for a day. On days when you feel stress and anxiety, this can be a game changer. The more you focus on the positive, the more positivity can trickle into your day, smashing to pieces the stress and anxiety you were feeling.
Spend Time With a Fur-Friend
On days you are looking for ways to cope with stress and anxiety, your fur-ball baby can really help you out. There is a reason why there are therapy dogs that go to retirement homes and help people out with PTSD. They are calming, relaxing, and bring instant peace to many people.
Many studies reveal that petting an animal can help lower a person’s stress level. It calms the heart and helps people adapt to situations that cause anxiety.
You don’t have to get a dog to achieve this…any pet can bring calmness into your life. It is like having another human connection. Someone that is there for you when you need them most.
Also, if you don’t have a pet, there are so many shelters that need volunteers. So, on a day you are feeling stress and anxiety (and you have the time), offer to walk some homeless dogs. Pet the room of cats no one wants.
Anything that helps bring your stress levels down and allows some happiness to shine into your life!
Car Conversations
Begin to have pep-talks with yourself in the car. This one is strange, but, I swear it works!
I started doing this about three months ago based on a podcast I was listening to (I don’t remember which!?!). When I am feeling stress and anxiety, I spend time driving and talking to myself. Honestly, it is relieving and talks me off of a ledge when my mind is spiraling out of control.
Do you know what I mean? Those “stories” you create in your head. What “so-and-so” thinks of you. Or going over how you “think” a conversation will go with your co-worker. We all do it and it drives us to a point where we start to think things that are not even happening! Anyone else with me?
If you don’t, I highly envy you.
Also, you might be thinking, “Won’t other people think I am nuts if I am talking out loud to myself?” No. It will look like you are on a blue-tooth phone call with someone. Or, that you are singing to some awesome tunes.
So, next time you are feeling stress and anxiety and you are in your car, have a 1:1 sesh with yourself. Usually, you realize how ridiculous your thoughts are once they are out in the universe. You realize that many of your thoughts are “stories” and are not even real.
- RELATED: MINDFULNESS FOR BEGINNERS
How do you cope with stress and anxiety?
You may also like:
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- MINDFULNESS FOR BEGINNERS
- WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARE FEELING OVERWHELMED
- HOW TO DEVELOP A POSITIVE MINDSET IN NEGATIVE SITUATIONS
Disclaimer: I am NOT a licensed doctor of any kind. The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not considered a substitute for a trained professional that would give medical advice or any type of therapy. This document is an expression of my own thoughts and opinions and may not apply to your life. I am not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failures to act related to the content in this article. If you need specific medical advice, please contact a licensed professional.
These are great tips! I love snuggling my pup and totally believe he helps me relax.
I always have a relaxing playlist waiting for me when I get stressed!
The first step for me is DEFINITELY to cut back on caffeine. Once I calm down some then I move on to some of the other things you mentioned. Puppy cuddles definitely help.
I agree with all of these! I drink a ton of coffee at school and I really do think it negatively impacts me, so at home I try to cut back to 1 or 2 cups a day! I also have a go-to playlist on Spotify that I love – all the songs make me want to dance 🙂
Hannah | the swirl
I wish I had a furry friend to play with but I love this list, especially because it’s so true!!
http://thesophiadiaries.com/bujoinspiration/bujo-ideas-pinterest
I’ve been struggling with anxiety since I was 12 and these are all awesome tips on how to work against it! I need to incorporate more exercise into my routine, I think it would really help!
These are such great tips! I dealt with stress and anxiety throughout my college years and in grad school, and it was so important to not let it overwhelm me. Having a go-to playlist to tune my thoughts out and learning to just let things go helped me so much!
My dogs are the best!!!! They make me so happy! I agree with minimal caffeine! total game changer!
Sometimes I get SO anxious over everyday obstacles that really shouldn’t cause me so much stress and then I realize I need to cut back on the coffee. Of course cutting back on caffeine isn’t the solution to all anxiety but it’s a solid place to start. I also love exercising (even just a walk) really helpful when I am feeling anxious.
It is so hard because coffee is SO FREAKIN GOOD! haha. Wearing a fitbit definitely helps me keep moving. Sitting makes anxiety so much worse because then you sit with your thoughts, too, and things can spiral. xx
All amazing advice! I have had terrible anxiety from as far back as I can remember, and being with my furbaby has been the best medicine. Journaling is also very helpful for me. When I start feeling like everything is too much to process, it helps me to sort through my emotions and thoughts. I need to cut back on the coffee, but it’s so hard!
Charity | A Cheerful Life Blog
Yes, Charity! My friend journals to relieve stress and anxiety and it really works for her. I bought one, but have not began yet. I do scribble down thoughts and throw out the paper to help get thoughts down randomly. 🙂 glad to know I am not alone! xx
Getting outside in the fresh air to exercise is my go to stress cure. It helps every single time.
Yes, Bella! Sometimes you just need to breathe in nice, cool air and remember that a lot of stress comes from things that won’t matter in 5 years anyway! xx
Omg my dog is seriously my #1 stress reliever! Great tips.
-Alix
Thanks, Alix! Benny, my dog, is at the top of my list for relieving stress & anxiety for sureeee xx
I connect with so many of these tips! I also have a playlist for when I need to calm down and my dog is seriously the best. My sister introduced me to aromatherapy and the lavender sent works wonders.
-Sabine | http://www.rinnyandbean.com
So glad you could connect!! xx
Great list of things to do! I am feeling stressed constantly right now – writing my Master’s thesis while juggeling three jobs and my blog can be a bit much from time to time. But this list looks like it is going to help, so thank you!
I thought I was the only one talking to myself in the car 😉
Love from Austria, Theresa
Theresa! Girl, it makes me so happy to know other people talk to themselves in the car hahaha. That just made me smile. And kudos to you for living an insanely productive life. Keep it up!! You’re inspirational xx
Hahaha this just made my day! No, I definitely talk to myself and get weird looks whenever I’m at a traffic light 😉 Well, Idk how productive I really am but trying!
Perfect list of tips! I find that cat cuddles always make me feel better 😛
It is the unconditional love!!! xx
Love this post! I have awful anxiety (I feel like a lot of creative people do), and I have noticed that playing with my puppy and blogging have helped me a lot! Thanks for writing this, you hit everything right on the target with this!
xoxo
Hanna
ashadeofchic.com
Hanna, I completely get you! Interesting thought about creative peeps. I was very very very anxious about beginning my blog and I still have not told a lot of people about it. So glad you could connect xx 🙂
Thank you for this!!! I have anxiety (though I’ve been managing it pretty well as of late) and these are all super relevant. Great post!
Thank you! I hope you can walk away with something. Anxiety sucks!!! xx
Such a good post! The best thing for managing my anxiety has been cutting caffeine and having a daily dance session with my go-to playlist. Both work wonders!
Ah, I have anxiety too. I’ve learned that deep breathes are really important for me. Also, My little cute doggie helps a lot too!
Great tips! Even though I flinched a little when you said to cut back on the caffeine, it is good to do once in awhile!
I love this so much. For me, I get anxiety when I’m starting a new relationship, and I’m kind of going through it now. I think music and talking to someone really help. I go crazy when I bottle things up, but that doesn’t stop me from trying! I also love that you mentioned the last one because I actually do that. If I’m having a horrible day, I’ll go take a drive and talk myself down or blast music and sing along.
This is so, so good. Spending time with my fur-child and car talks with my mom or sisters always help me talk out my feelings and lower my stress levels!
xoxo, SS
Southern And Style
Music definitely helps me calm down whenever I’m stressed, and so does spending time with my pet!
xo, brooke
http://www.livethepreplife.com
Love this post! I have a go to playlist it help me calm down! One of my fav stress reliever is working out i always few less stress after I have had a good workout 🙂
xoxo
Oby Grace
http://www.obygrace.com/
I have such bad anxiety and all throughout college I struggled with it! However, since getting my dog, I’ve never been happier and more confident! Fur-babies DO help 🙂
xx Carly | http://www.thecarlycollective.com
So many great tips! I will definitly have to save this and refer back to this next time I’m feeling overwhelmed and stress
xoxo,
Amy | Pastel N Pink
I need a fur-friend to lower stress! I’ve thought about getting a bunny but I know they need a lot of attention and I don’t have extra time to devote to one 🙁
I vent a LOT to my boyfriend when I’m stressed! I also love to listen to music/sing/read/do a face mask/paint my nails/watch a movie to get my mind off of everything. Great tips!
Kayla | kaylablogs.com
These are all such great tips! Spending time with my pets definitely does the trick for me!
xo
Sami
The Classic Brunette
These are all such great tips- stopping at my second cup of coffee helps with lowering my anxiety. I mean, no one needs to be anxious AND jittery