SMILE – MAKE YOURSELF HAPPY
Have you ever smiled even when you were feeling bad? That’s highly unlikely. Make yourself to smile more. Make a mental file of people, places, and things that make you smile. Pull something out of this mental file when you are feeling overwhelmed. The positive energy will transfer to your surroundings and echo back to you. In this study, participants demonstrated that forcing a smile resulted in feeling more relaxed and an overall greater positive attitude.
EXERCISE
While this is practically a no-brainer, it’s still important to note that exercising is an excellent way to get rid of stress. Find the type of exercise that suits you and makes you happy doing it. Some people find walking or jogging very relaxing while others like to dance or lift weights. Find a physical exercise that suits you and raise your heart rate around 20-30 minutes every day. Simple ways to increase exercise are to take the stairs, and park farther away so you have to walk further. Look for opportunities to walk and move at home, school or on the job.
AVOID LOW BLOOD SUGAR
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is a major cause of episodic anxiety. Start off your day by having a good breakfast (try to avoid foods that are high in sugar like processed cereal or even smoothies). Eat small frequent meals every few hours throughout the rest of the day. Make sure you have enough protein in your diet and be sure to limit sugary snacks and sodas.
GET INSPIRED
Surround yourself with positive affirmations and inspiration. Find quotes that help you feel better by inspiring you and post them where you can see them easily. Watch motivational videos and listen to inspirational music. Find (or create!) your own favorite positive affirmations. Hang them on your mirror or your workstation and read and repeat them several times a day. Or just make them your desktop or phone’s wallpaper to keep yourself inspired and motivated at all times.
BE SOCIAL AND SCHEDULE INTERESTING ACTIVITIES
Negative thoughts and feelings usually stay away when you are a good time. Schedule some time with your closest friend(s) or family regularly. Go out to dinner, listen to music, take a walk or just sit and have a cup of coffee. The activity is not as important as the shared experience. Such activities often help you take your mind off your worries!