Ever wake up first thing in the morning tense and anxious because you have a to-do list a mile long? You’re itchy, full of dread and in desperate need of some help. Try these 10 suggestions.
1. Stay in bed and take five deep breaths.
2. Make a list of everything you have to do today and check them off as soon as they are complete. Acknowledge that you are making progress and give yourself a virtual pat on the back.
3. Throughout the day, as soon as your heart begins to race or your forehead and shoulders start tensing, take five deep breaths.
4. If tension or anxiety begin to take over, connect with your five senses. This check-in is so natural and calming. Notice something you are seeing, smelling, feeling, tasting and hearing.
5. If things really begin going downhill, give yourself a reality check to determine exactly what is happening. Perhaps it is not as bad as you think?
6. Don’t listen to your inner critic, what we call your obnoxious roommate. Change the negative conservation to a more positive one. Say to yourself: “I need to be kinder and more compassionate to myself. I need to treat me as I treat others.”
7. Some anxiety is good and brings a burst of energy. Maybe you can break your anxiety by doing something healthy for yourself – take a walk, clean your house, organize a closet, clean your desk, go to the gym.
8. Understand your triggers. If being late for appointments makes you anxious, try leaving earlier. If lines and traffic make you nuts, practice breathing or look around and notice things you never would have seen if you didn’t take the time to look. Live in the present.
9. Become more patient, which is easier said than done. Become curious. Look inward and determine how your impatience affects your body. Let it go…. Becoming more patient is freeing and delicious!
10. When you get into bed each night, take five deep breaths.