4 Activities to Manage Stress and Anxiety

I’ve been thinking that it might not make sense to some readers that I am both happy (the happiest I’ve ever been) and suffering from a generalised anxiety disorder. Yet, this is the case for me. Finding and working on my own happiness has come from being in the right environment, learning to accept the things that make me different and identifying my triggers. This is not an easy journey. I still have panic attacks, get overwhelmed with stress, develop associations and have days where it gets too much. These things come from my GAD, SPD and perhaps from autism too. Whilst I do occasionally have to resort to medication like propranolol; mostly I manage my anxiety and stress through other activities though.

To Be or Not to Be

I am a writer and have been since I was a boy. Poetry, stories, articles or even thoughts; all flow easily when my fingers find a keyboard or pen. To not write, is to not be me. It is to deny a piece of my identity. This makes me anxious, scared and depressed; I did try it for a while, a long while and now that I write again I feel stronger than ever. Sometimes, I can even channel my anxiety and fears into something actually positive.

There are two takeaways from this, one is that the act of writing itself is very therapeutic. Writing can serve as a distraction or expression. It can allow you to deal with and process what you cannot ordinarily. The other lesson is that my writing could be a different thing for you! Art, photography, dance, crochet, cross stitching or anything. Embrace that.

Get Wet

Water is proven to help with a wide array of conditions and issues. Physical and mental. I get that some aren’t as enthusiastic and blue-minded (ignore any other interpretations of that) as I am, but a long soak in a hot bath, getting lost in a hot tub, the sensual feel of a shower or a quick swim are all great ways to relax and get out of your head. Especially if you combine with relaxing music, the perfect company (where applicable) or both.

Walk This Way

No, I’m not pushing that old advice about exercise. Whilst there is some truth in it, it’s never been my jam, so I can hardly recommend it. When I walk, it is to be closer to the world and further from my head. I look for interesting sights, engaging feelings, little inspirational snippets of nature and to generally explore.

It isn’t about exercise, it is about finding things that stimulate me and make me happy. Pictures to show my partner, places to show the kids and appreciating that things are bigger than what is going on in my head. No matter how serious.

However, if you personally find yourself needing to work up a sweat and the great outdoors is not an option; then embracing the many home workout options are a fantastic way to go.

Talk This Way

Words are hard and feelings are too, especially when so many seem to not get it or make incorrect assumptions. These people do mean well but sometimes this is simply not helpful. However, never let that stop you from talking. It’s a case of the wrong person, not the wrong action on your part.

Whether a therapist, friend, family member or your partner; there is someone out there who can work with you on this. When they do, anxiety burdens pass so much faster.

Don’t Worry, Be Happy

Sure, it isn’t as simple as switching feelings off. This does not work. But, the right activities allow you to step outside of the negative self that comes with anxiety and stress. Sometimes, fleetingly other times to move on completely.

For me, it comes down to having the right things to focus on and sometimes the right person available to enable me to help move me on, when I can’t myself. From there, positive associations build and you find yourself gradually worrying less and being happy more.