Anxiety: 5 Simple Practices

In the fast-paced world we live in, finding moments of calm and tackling stress and anxiety can seem like a challenge. However, simple practices integrated into your daily routine can make a significant impact on your overall mood and your anxiety levels.

Catherine Wells, Occupational Therapist suggests five straightforward practices that will have a big impact on anxiety, yet they are easy to slot into busy lifestyles and build into habits.

1. Digital Detox Before Sleep and After Waking

The first practice is one most of us don’t want to hear. It invites you to create a digital-free zone for at least an hour before bedtime and upon waking!! But disconnecting from your phone during these crucial periods really does help to set a peaceful tone for your day, enhances the quality of your sleep.

2. Nature's Bounty: 20-Minute Brisk Walk

Combine the benefits of exercise and nature by incorporating a brisk 15 - 20 minute walk into your daily routine. Whether it's around your neighbourhood or in a nearby park, this simple act can do wonders for your physical and mental well-being.

3. Morning Sunlight Ritual

Spend 15-20 minutes soaking in the morning sunlight as part of your wake-up routine. Whether you enjoy a cuppa outdoors or integrate it with your morning walk, exposure to natural light in the morning is proven to positively impact mood and circadian rhythms.

4. Humming Bee Breaths for Inner Calm

Begin and end your day with a calming breathing exercise known as Humming Bee breaths. Inhale deeply into your belly, expanding your rib cage. Exhale slowly with a gentle hum (this might feel strange at first, but go with it). Experiment with the tone, low or higher.  To elevate this even more you can cover your ears focus on the vibration of your humming. This practice can help ground you, promoting relaxation and inner calm.

5. Gratitude and Reflection Before Bed

Before heading to bed, take a moment to deeply feel or write down one thing from the day for which you're grateful. Additionally, reflect on a moment where someone helped or supported you. Spend at least a minute feeling genuine thanks in your body. This practice helps to cultivate a positive mindset and supports restful sleep.

It can be really hard to change our habits, but these small, consistent changes in your daily routine can pave the way for significant improvements in your overall well-being. 

The key is to integrate them into your routine for at least a week, observing the positive shifts they bring. 

Remember, well-being is a journey, and these simple practices can be the first steps toward a calmer and more fulfilling life. Try them out, tailor them to suit your lifestyle!