5 Ways to Combat Anxiety During Uncertainty

It no secret that we are living in uncertain times. But if there’s one thing I can promise you, it’s this: It does get better. Here are 5 ways to combat anxiety during uncertainty.

I know times are tough right now. With all the talk about COVID-19 and not knowing what the near future holds, it can be really easy to step into a dark place. But, there are some practices that we all can (and should!) implement into our daily routine. Even after things calm down, these are still great practices to keep around to stay focused on things that speak life and bring us joy!

Meditation and Prayer

These two practices are honestly essential even when things aren’t too hectic. It’s great to focus on our thoughts, feelings, and emotions throughout the day. It’s what grounds us and keeps us more focused on the present. Prayer is a great way both start your and end your day. Talking with God and knowing where your peace comes from really puts things into perspective.

The beautiful thing about meditation and prayer is that it is sacred and intimate and all to yourself. There is no fear of judgment in these moments. It’s just you and God. You get to show up as your whole self and simply be. We get to leave our masks at the door and it allows us an honest and transparent look at our lives. It allows us to understand the things that are in our control and gives us the freedom to unload the things that aren’t in our control. These two practices are very centering in times of uncertainty.

Yoga and Breathing Exercises

Ever since a friend shared their preferred yoga routine, we have slowly integrated this practice into our nightly routine. It’s amazing what a little stretching before bed can do to release stress, tension, and anxiety. And with everything going on in the world, we all could use a little more yoga. If you are new to yoga and/or in need of some extra guidance, our favorite check out our favorite YouTube channel, Yoga with Adriene . Adriene does a really great job of breaking down each pose and making you feel calm and relaxed the whole way through. Her mantra, “Find what feels good” is an open invitation to work at your own pace. And in times like these, working at your own pace is something we all need to be mindful of.

Another great practice that can be used with or without yoga is focusing on your breathwork. Yoga may not be your thing, but breathwork should be. Even if it’s 1-minute a day (though, I highly suggest more than this), this exercise allows you to focus on nothing else but simply breathing. If you have an Apple Watch, then you know that there is a free app called Breathe. This app allows you to focus on a flower blossoming and going back into itself as you focus on your breath. See if you can’t find 5-minutes each day solely dedicated to slowing your breath down and really taking in the present moment.

Move Your Body

Moving your body not only gets your heart pumping but it also boosts your immune system! A lot of times the tension, stress, and anxiety in our bodies are stemmed from not being active enough. When we are physically moving our bodies, we immediately feel better. You don’t even have to break a sweat! (Though, this helps too).

You can literally run around the block, play in the backyard with your dog, or even play Just Dance at home. Regardless of how you move your body, it really does help relieve any negativity in your body. While there are times for rest and sitting in stillness like yoga and meditation, moving your body is equally good for the soul.

Focus on Joy

What brings you the most joy? Is it watching your favorite movie? Reading your favorite book? Listening to your favorite podcast? Do you enjoy painting or creating music? Do you need a good laugh?

Whatever it is that brings you joy, do more of that. When we focus on the things that bring us joy and speak life, we are able to focus on the positivity around us. When we actively seek the things we love, we will always find things to love. If you’re struggling with fear or anxiety, think back to what brings you joy. Think back to things that you enjoy doing. Whatever sparks joy in your heart, chase more of those things.

Spread Kindness

There is Unity in Tragedy.

Whenever you’re dealing with fear, tension, stress, or anxiety, one of the greatest things we can do is to spread kindness. Have you ever noticed that feeling you get when you do a nice gesture for someone else? Or when someone reaches out for help and you’re able to extend your expertise? It feels good to help others.

Odds are, whatever you’re currently feeling, there are tons of other people who feel the exact same. If you see someone who is dealing with these things as well, don’t be afraid to reach out. It always feels good to know that no matter what, we’re not alone, especially in times such as these.

Because guess what? You’re not alone.

Your thoughts and feelings are yours and they are valid

Whatever you’re feeling right now, it’s okay to feel. Feelings are meant to be felt and you shouldn’t feel judged or ostracized for sitting with those feelings. The best way to deal with these things is literally just deal with them. It’s okay to sit with and ponder and understand where the thoughts and feelings are coming from. If you’re feeling tense, fearful, and/or anxious right now, it may be a good time to implement these practices into your daily routine.

If you know someone who is also dealing with any of these negative emotions, be sure and share these 5 ways to combat anxiety during uncertainty. Because if there is one thing I am certain of, it’s that it gets better.