Tips on How to Ease your Anxiety

As another pandemic year is wrapping up, we will be potentially experiencing more anxiety and depression closer to the holidays. It is completely normal to be feeling uncertain and uneasy as we close another year, surviving what seems to be a never-ending COVID-19 reality. This is fair, your feelings are valid – and please know that you are not alone.

We are all going through challenges, and as unfortunate as situations may be right now, the only way to keep going is by thinking positive and to believe in impermanence. For those who are not familiar with the term ‘impermanence’, as cited in Dictionary.com, it is “the fact or quality of being temporary or short-lived.” In other words, everything will pass. It is what is until it isn’t. 

But what do we do right now to ease the anxiety and the anticipation of the holiday season? Well, we got some tips for you to help you relax for the time being. Ultimately, we’re all in this together. 

1.  Catch up with a loved one. Whether it is through a phone call, Facetime or a simple text messaging conversation, catching up with a loved does wonders to your spirit. It’s important to maintain a social life, even in times where the last thing you want to do is engage in a full-on conversation. The beautiful thing about your loved ones is the simplicity that they will love you whether it’s just a quick call or detailed message. Even if it’s awkward. They’ll love you regardless.

2.  Bake your favorite treat. Something that has helped me throughout the pandemic, and what I recently discovered that is a form of therapy for me, is the simplicity of baking. Okay, it’s not that simple sometimes, but I love being able to concentrate on one recipe and anticipating the satisfaction of its result once it’s done properly. I love that at the end of the day, all the ingredients are basically a formula to tackle.

3.  Write your thoughts. Sometimes it is hard to find the words and externalize your feelings – and that’s okay. Journaling is key when feelings start to overwhelm. It helps clear the mind and serves as a meditation to help smooth those repetitive blockages that occasionally appear. Always remember, the feeling will pass! Trust that process, and write it all down. Your writing is a safe space.

Photo Credit: Krakenimages