Anxiety is Normal and Everyone Can Experience it. You're Not Alone!

I deal with Anxiety on a daily basis. I face everyday challenges differently, but I have come a long way in realizing I can handle my emotions by exerting myself in multiple, positive activities. I hope the following activities or tips will help aid you in your daily life, possibly distracting yourself from your anxious state of mind.

1. Talk to Someone

You don't necessarily have to talk to them about your anxiety, but I've found having a conversation with someone really helps you focus on them rather than yourself.

2. Listen to Music

I'm a HUGE music person and will listen to music whenever I have the chance. (Currently listening to a GoT score) Music calms the mind, no matter what genre you listen to. Plug in your earbuds, sit back, close your eyes, and let your mind focus on the melody that's entering your ears.

3. Draw

I'm also a HUGE art person. Art is known to help calm your mind and the emotions going on within. Even if you're not big on drawing, sketching or painting, you could always grab a blank paper, pencil and move your hand in mindless motions all over the page.

4. Be Active: Play a Sport

If you're into sports, go out and kick around a ball, shoot some hoops or hit a tennis ball. Pay attention to how your body moves and focus on your breathing.

5. Be Active: Go for a Walk or Run

Cardio helps, it really does. Let your body release endorphins to relieve your anxiety. Don't be afraid to get sweaty. That's the fun part, knowing you worked your body so well.

6. Color in a Coloring Book

Going back to the artistic side of things, coloring books have been selling everywhere nowadays. They're intended to relieve stress, anxiety, and depression so, pick one up and get coloring. They're super fun, especially the Harry Potter ones!

7. Write a List

Hey look, that's what I'm doing now! Jokes aside, lists are a great activity. For example, you can make a bucket list where all your attention will be focused on creating ideas rather than focusing on your anxiety.

8. Write a Poem

If you don't like writing, that's okay. If you do, writing a poem about how you're feeling is a great way to let go. Try it!

9. Hang out With Your Pets

(Shout-out to my roommie for this one) If you have furry, fuzzy, playful pets like a dog, cat, hamster, rabbit, or any other animal you can think of, spend time with them. I promise they'll let you cry onto their furry cuteness. Even though they can't answer you back, talk to them. They are great secret keepers.

10. Breathe

There are a lot of gifs you can find online that can really help you calm down. Here's one I found just for you :) Relax and remember you'll be okay.