WE ROAR Issue 02 - Flipbook - Page 42
positive ones. A good way to start this
is by creating a simple two-column list
and writing out negative thoughts on
the left and coming up with a positive
word that can replace it on the right.
Try to use the new positive words
when their negative counterparts pop
into your head. Sounds simple, yet it
works.
4. Use distraction techniques
Another effective way to combat
overthinking and anxiety is to use
distraction
techniques,
such
as
meditation and exercise. Mindful
thinking exercises and breathing
techniques can help quiet your mind
and alleviate stress. Getting those
endorphins coming with some level of
activity, like dancing or going for a
walk, can help. Make it fun, exciting
and easy to do so you’ll want to work
them into your daily routine or be able
to utilise them quickly.
Breathwork is an easy tool that doesn’t
require any fancy equipment or training.
It’s inhaling for a short period,
approximately 2-3 seconds. Then pause
for a second when you’ve reached your
full inhale and exhaling gently for about
twice the time it took you to inhale. Do
this for a few minutes for maximum
impact.
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5. Sleep and more sleep
One crucial step to coping with anxiety
and overthinking is getting enough
sleep. Lack of sleep can make
complicated
feelings
harder
to
manage.
You can do many things to help
improve your sleep, such as regular
exercise, balanced meals, and reducing
screen
time
before
bedtime.
Additionally, try to establish a
consistent sleep routine, such as going
to bed and waking up at the same
time, though I appreciate that for many
of us, that’s unrealistic.
Try to keep your bedroom dark, quiet,
and calm. Find what helps you - maybe
it’s wearing an eye mask to keep the
room dark; it could be using a
weighted blanket or even a light that
has a calming display. Whatever you
use, prioritising sleep will help your
anxiety and general stress levels (as
well as many other areas).
Essential oils can be helpful and also
test different sleeping patterns - such
as taking a nap during the day. Sleep
can be something many of us struggle
with, yet getting to grips with how we
can sleep better is critical to not only
our anxiety and overwhelm but also
our general health and well-being.
