Coping Skills for Stress & Anxiety

Good afternoon fellow Goddesses. Ya girl has been going through it lately. It’s been hard to get out of bed completely and put some real clothes on, ones that I love. Whether it’s life changes, world problems, flashbacks, or nothing at all; my anxiety and stress can happen out of nowhere, and often does. I’ve been working towards getting back on my feet, and I couldn’t do it without my coping skills. Coping skills are essential when getting through anxiety, and I know many people like me suffer in silence. I created a list of all of the coping skills that have been helping me get back to my daily routines, or stay in line with my daily routines.

Staying grounded- I’ll usually end up going outside and sitting down on the grass or snow, and lay my hands on the earth while I name off the 5 senses: sight, touch, smell, taste, and hearing. It helps me to feel safe and come to peace with my surroundings and spirit. It’s hard to explain, but it’s helped me tremendously. There is psychology behind this strategy and how it helps with specifically stress and anxiety.

Sitting in a dark room- My thoughts are constantly going a million miles an hour, and I find it extremely difficult to just be at peace with myself. Most of the time I need a distraction so I can get out of my head, but I’ve been doing my best to be by myself in silence with no distractions, like my phone, and just clear my head and be at peace.

Spot clean- I know when I’m going through stress and anxiety usually it has a little to do with my surroundings. Sometimes cups or laundry on the floor can contribute to my anxiety and makes me feel overwhelmed. Spot clean around you to make not only your surroundings clear, but your head too.

Prayer- Whether you are religious or not, sometimes it is nice to pray even if you don’t know who you’re praying to. I will often talk to my dad who passed away back in 2011 and just check in with him and let him know how I’m doing. I usually complain about how I wish he was here to give me advice, but I often figure out what to do after talking to him about my current situation. Sometimes speaking out loud to yourself or talking to a loved one who has passed on, will shed some light on ideas you thought you’d never come up with before.

Bubble bath with music- I swear a bubble bath is one of my go to coping skills for just about anything. Turn on some light music, put some bath salts in, or a CBD bath bomb! CBD bath bombs have been a life saver for me. I suffer from back pain quite a bit dealing with scoliosis, and CBD bath bombs have always been able to relax not only my muscles, but also my nerves. I always add a little soap to the bath for some bubble fun (yes, I am a child at heart). Usually I’ll bring a book in the bath, but when I am stressed or have anxiety, I do my best to separate myself from everything and clear my head, because most of the time my thoughts are going a million miles an hour.

Meditation- Meditation has so many benefits from clearing your mind, anxiety control, stress control, to easing depression, etc. It’s been hard for me lately to meditate with no distractions. It’s hard for me to clear my mind and listen to my breathing. Sometimes I have to resort to guided meditation on youtube or audible, but after a successful meditation session I truly feel like a refreshed version of myself.

Sex- Sex releases endorphins and oxytocin, both hormones that bring happiness and relaxation. Practicing safe sex is always fun with the right person, you can always get creative and try new things.

Exercise- I do love those endorphins. Cardio for me has always helped with stress, and it’s always felt so good to sprint, especially if I’m angry (lol). But there are those days where I can’t bring myself to move, so I’ll often go for a little walk with my dogs, or alone, either in my backyard or down the road. If you’re having trouble with motivation, try reminding yourself how good you’re going to feel after exercising.

Spending time with animals- My dogs are the best therapy. They help me stay grounded and bring me so much comfort and happiness. Humankind truly does not deserve dogs or animals for that matter. But dogs are just pure unconditionally loving animals. You could think you’re the worst person in the world, or be mad at yourself, and your dog will be there, trying to play with you or love you; they love you no matter what. I would do anything for them, they’re my babies.

Limiting caffeine intake- Too much caffeine can cause jitters, which can result in anxiety. Ya girl loves coffee, and I will never give it up, but I always stay conscious of how much caffeine I’m consuming on a daily basis; especially on the days when my anxiety is heightened.

Comment below some coping skills that help you with stress & anxiety. I hope this helped, stay strong Goddesses. You’re powerful, remember that.