5 Tips for Helping You to Unwind when Worried

Some days we’d just rather not go through. Let’s face it, we all go through times of intense stress and worry. I understand that worrying can be overwhelming and stressful and the idea of unwinding at all in these circumstances can feel impossible. Remember that worrying is a natural human emotion and it’s okay to feel this way. Here are some words of encouragement and several tips designed to help you unwind even when you’re worried: 

Start By Getting Back into the Moment

A lot of what we’re doing when we’re worrying is living in the future. We’re caught in a world of ‘what ifs’ and speculation. This is why getting back into the here and now is crucial. Mindfulness or meditation can help you focus on where you are right now. Close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Don’t allow thoughts to intrude. Instead, allow yourself to drift, thinking about what you hear or smell. It doesn’t have to take long. Even a few minutes of mindfulness will help you to unwind significantly

Are You Being Reasonable?

What are you worried about most often? Is this a reasonable worry? Sometimes all we need to unwind is a quick reality check. You might be overthinking things. If you’re not sure if you see the situation clearly, this might be a good time to talk to someone else about what’s going on. You have people who care about you and are there to support you. Reach out to them and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

 Do they see things the same way?

Let Go

There are some things you won’t be able to change about what’s going on right now. Remind yourself that whatever is happening is just another piece of this particular segment of your life. You will get through it. You’ll find it easier to relax if you let go of what is out of your control.

Forget the Fortune-Teller

When we’re worried, we sometimes fall into the trap of thinking things are very black and white. But, generally speaking, things are seldom as bad as we imagine. So please take a deep breath and let the situation unfold as it will without trying to predict the future. 

What Are You Telling Yourself?

Sometimes we get in the habit of seeking out the negative, especially when it comes to ourselves. Could you be worried about something that isn’t even true? Consider the words you use when talking to yourself. If you use more negative than positive phrasing, change the dialogue to more positive statements. It’s much easier to unwind when you’re not constantly beating yourself up.

Worrying is a normal part of life, but it’s important not to let it consume you. 

Distorted thinking that starts much of our worrying crushes our self-esteem with feelings of despair, failure, anger, frustration, hopelessness, resentment, and anxiety. This can lead to doing and saying things we regret and never solving problems. Instead, it only leads to a high degree of dissatisfaction in life. 

While these tips might not necessarily solve the crisis you are feeling, they’ll help you put even difficult times into better perspective, allowing you to at least take some time to breathe and figure out the next steps.

Take it one step at a time. First, focus on the present moment. Analyze your thought process. Ask yourself if you have proof to support this thought. Finally, approach the issue differently and know you are not alone.

Believe in yourself and your abilities. You are capable of achieving great things, and you have the power to overcome any obstacle.

Keep a positive mindset, and take action towards your goals.

You’ve got this!

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