The anxiety-stress loop is a compelling force that manifests physically and emotionally. It begins with a persistent sense of worry or fear that feels almost uncontrollable. This mental strain can scatter our focus, making it difficult to concentrate on the task at hand.
Physically, we might find ourselves in constant tension, perpetually on edge, which drains our energy and leaves us irritable and more prone to accidents.
Here are five tips to help manage this anxiety-stress loop:
1. Mindful Breathing: Whenever you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to practice deep breathing. Inhale slowly for a count of four, hold for four, exhale for four and hold again for four. This helps regulate the nervous system and can bring immediate relief from acute stress.
2. Set Realistic Goals: Break down your tasks into manageable steps and set realistic, achievable goals. Call it your achievements list! This reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed and increases your sense of control over the situation.
3. Regular Breaks: Make it a point to schedule short breaks during busy periods. Even a five-minute pause can be enough to step back, clear your mind, and reduce the buildup of stress. Try a 5 minute comedy clip and boost your Dopamine and Serotonin levels.
4. Daily Meditation: Incorporating meditation into your daily routine can significantly alter your response to stress. Start with just a few minutes each day, focusing on mindfulness or guided meditations. This practice can help you develop a calmer, more focused mind, reducing the frequency and intensity of stress and anxiety.
5. Therapeutic Hypnosis: Hypnosis is an excellent tool for accessing the subconscious mind to instil positive thoughts and behaviours. Learn to replace negative stress responses with positive and relaxed, confident states of mind. It’s a powerful way to break the cycle of stress and anxiety that can lead to physical manifestations.
If you find yourself frequently trapped in this stress and anxiety loop, impacting both your mental and physical well-being, it might be time to explore deeper interventions.
Let’s uncover personalised strategies to manage your stress and anxiety more effectively, helping you to maintain not just mental but also physical health.
Paul Wren
Award-Winning Hypnotherapist and Mind Coach
Control and Change Hypnotherapy
“Control Your Today, Change Your Tomorrow”