Staying Calm, Permanently
Tackling Stress and Anxiety as You Grow Older
Stress and anxiety are two major problems that many people experience as they get older. These conditions can make you age faster, leading to several health problems and other negative consequences. However, there are many techniques you can use to tackle stress and anxiety as you grow older. Getting them stacked together and permanently effective is the long run problem. One of these may work for you and then you, for some unknown reason, stop.
So think about the seven as seven books you have on a shelf. The shelf is on a boat that keeps changing the level of the shelf, so the books eventually fall down on the deck. Without bookends you keep repeating the cycle.
Here’s how to stack the books, get calm, and STAY calm, with very little effort.
Here are seven of the most effective strategies for dealing with these issues:
Make Time for Physical Activity Every Day
Regular exercise can help keep your mind and body healthy by reducing stress, improving your mood, and increasing your overall energy levels. Be sure to find time in your schedule to stay active each day, and remember it doesn’t need to be anything strenuous. It can be a simple walk outside or a ride on your bike.
Incorporate Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety effectively. You can try breathing exercises, such as deep breathing, guided imagery, and visualizations. Figure out what works for you and use it whenever you need to calm down and relax.
Seek Out Supportive Relationships
Strong social connections are one of the best ways to alleviate stress and anxiety. Being around others who relate to what you're going through can help reduce your feelings of isolation and provide much-needed emotional support. Spend time with your loved ones or connect with others on an online support group.
Practice Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is incredibly beneficial for managing stress and anxiety. This practice involves focusing your attention on the present moment and acknowledging your thoughts and feelings without judgment or resistance. There are many different ways to perform mindfulness meditation, such as using guided audio recordings or simply sitting quietly and bringing your attention to your breath.
Avoid Unhealthy Habits
It's important to avoid behaviors that can make stress and anxiety even worse. For example, drinking alcohol or using drugs may temporarily relieve these feelings, but they will only exacerbate them in the long run. Likewise, eating a poor diet or not getting enough sleep can also increase stress levels and negatively affect your mood and energy levels. Instead, focus on making healthy choices that support overall wellness.
Pay Attention to Your Overall Well-Being – Balance It Like Your Bicycle
It's important to remember that managing stress and anxiety is about more than just dealing with specific symptoms or problems. Ultimately, it would help if you took responsibility for your health and happiness by making positive changes and cultivating habits that promote well-being. Whether it's practicing gratitude, getting enough rest, or taking time for yourself each day, be sure to prioritize your mental and physical well-being as you grow older.
While stress and anxiety are common issues many experience as they age, many effective strategies can help you manage these feelings. By incorporating regular exercise, breathing exercises, supportive relationships, mindfulness meditation, healthy habits, and self-care into your routine, you can better cope with stress and anxiety as you grow older and improve your overall quality of life.
To keep it all together and win the long term battle against stress, do this routine every day, no matter where you are: First, 10 minutes of planning in the AM. No matter where you are. Second, Do whatever the your plan requires, without perfectionism involved. Third, 10 minutes of reflection at the end of the day – include and write down the one thing you are most grateful for.
Happy Days ahead
Joe Grant, MBA
Certified Retirement Coach
Contact me for a Free 45 minute Consultation at https://yourvantagepoints.com
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