Our world is changing rapidly at the moment. Given some of the news coverage, it is difficult not to worry about what it all means for yourself, and for those you love. Worry and anxiety are common problems at the best of times, and when it takes over it can become all-encompassing.

First, it is important to recognize that stress is a part of life and that during significant global events like we are experiencing, a significant increase in stress seems to become the “new normal.” Attempts to try to eliminate such stress often result in even greater stress, leading to anxiety. Then, we get anxious about getting anxious. This is a disheartening loop from which to escape.

What triggers worry and anxiety?
Anything can be a trigger for worry. Even when things go right, you might manage to think to yourself “but what if it all falls apart?”. There are particular situations where worry becomes even more common, though. Strong triggers for worry are situations that are:

• Ambiguous – open to different interpretations.
• Novel and new – so we don’t have any experience to fall back on.
• Unpredictable – unclear how things will turn out.

Step one to deal with our anxieties; is to bring back the focus to yourself.
If we don’t take care of ourselves how can we help others; help the global situation?

Our common patterns we go into is instead of focusing on self-care, we incorrectly focus on trying to keep digging and digging within the hole we have found ourselves, thinking somehow we will eventually get out of the hole. We need to stop “struggling” with the stress and take active steps to do something different, something aligned with who and what we care about. This includes steps to care for yourself.

In order to practice self-care, there needs to be present moment awareness of stress and fatigue levels, as well as personal accountability that previous efforts have not worked effectively. Self-care practices may include mindful eating, exercising, connecting with others in your family, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, planning and committing time for meaningful leisure activities, and increasing vitality. Managing that stress might mean shifting your mindset, but doing so will help you put your energy where it can be most productive.

Here are some key points you can start with to manage your habit of worrying continuously:

• Worry selectively
  Be strategic about where you are expending emotional energy. The way to manage anxiety is not to try and stop worrying altogether. It’s to know which things to worry about, and how much to worry about them.
• Meditate
  Many people think of meditation as  “a woo-woo thing tied somehow to reincarnation”.In reality, meditation helps us to get calmer. Mange our anxieties and connect with our deeper inner self; our inner child. Meditating 2-3 times a week is recommended for managing your anxieties. Commit to your meditation discipline; join our weekly classes today!
• Take a time-out
  Practice yoga, listen to music, meditate, get a massage, or learn relaxation techniques. Stepping back from the problem helps clear your head.
• Keep a journal/ thought diary
  Many people find that keeping a Thought Diary / Journal is helpful. This may include writing down one’s thoughts and feelings about the day.
• Reiki healing
  Reiki, a Japanese energy/ chakra balancing healing technique tremendously helps to reduce your anxiety. Regular Reiki sessions with a certified Reiki Master Teacher will bring about that positive shift in your stress and mental health.
  Book your Reiki session!
• Eat well-balanced meals. Do not skip any meals. Do keep healthful, energy-boosting snacks on hand.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks.
• Get enough sleep. When stressed, your body needs additional sleep and rest.
• Exercise daily to help you feel good and maintain your health.
• Take deep breaths. Inhale and exhale slowly. Count to 10 slowly. Repeat, and count to 20 if necessary. Do your best. Instead of aiming for perfection, which isn’t possible, be proud of however close you get.
• Accept that you cannot control everything. Put your stress in perspective: Is it really as bad as you think?
• Welcome humor. A good laugh goes a long way.
• Maintain a positive attitude. Make an effort to replace negative thoughts with positive ones.
• Get involved. Volunteer or find another way to be active in your community, which creates a support network and gives you a break from everyday stress. If you want to contribute towards some of the global issues; start helping instead of just worrying about them.
• Learn what triggers your anxiety. Is it work, family, school, or something else you can identify? Write in a journal when you’re feeling stressed or anxious, and look for a pattern.
• Talk to someone. Tell friends and family you’re feeling overwhelmed, and let them know how they can help you. Talk to a physician or therapist for professional help.

Remember, you can spend your entire life worrying about issues around you. The most important first step starts with your own self; manage your own issues, get mentally, physically, and spiritually strong so you can help others.

Namaste.