Your Bag is Empty
It's no secret that our society is totally stressed out. Work hours are more demanding than they've ever been and then pile on maintaining a home, fitting in family time, sticking to an exercise routine and everything else that life demands. So of course, we all have stress! Whatever it is that has you a little frazzled, there are great, natural ways to begin to tame those racing thoughts so that you can get out ahead instead of spiraling into a whirlwind of anxious, stressed out thoughts. Here are 5 tips to help you feel calmer and more at peace this week.
1. Eat Grounding Foods
When I get anxious, my mind becomes a flurry of thoughts, so much so that it can be difficult to get work done. To counter balance that, I focus on eating warm, grounding foods. Think sweet potatoes, squash, pumpkin, carrots and beets. All of which are grown in the ground! When I focus on eating these root veggies my body and mind truly become more grounded. I find that I'm calmer, more relaxed and able to make clear, tranquil decisions. The Ayurvedic way of eating is big on eating specific foods to calm or stimulate the mind, so check out THIS article if you're interested in learning more!
2. Practice Mindfulness
Make it a daily habit to turn inward and asses how you and your body are feeling. When you are constantly on the go, assessing others, making sure that those around you are okay, it's really easy to lose yourself and an understanding for what you truly need. Take some time, even if it's just 5 minutes, for you every day. Start with a short meditation using an app like Headspace or just walk outside and take a few deep breaths. Try to stop and ask yourself, "How am I feeling?" or "What does my body really need today?"
3. Try EFT
EFT, also known as the Emotional Freedom Technique or tapping is a fabulous way to work on letting go of fears and doubts. It's a combination of mantra chanting, goal setting and acupressure. I just picked this technique back up and it has helped me immensely. Learn more about it in this article HERE.
4. Eliminate Refined Carbs and Sugar
White sugar and refined carbohydrates make your blood sugar spike quickly (sugar high anyone?) which is followed by a major sugar crash. AKA you feel TERRIBLE! When anxiety is in the picture, white sugar and refined carbs only make things worse. Instead, focus on grounding foods, warm foods like soups and sautéed veggies in olive oil or coconut oil.
5. Get Moving
Moving your body is an incredible way to get grounded and ease stress. It helps bring you back to the present and also gets those happy endorphins going! Try going for a walk, get in a nice yoga class or heck, just turn up the music and dance around your room! Trust me, you'll feel SO much better after!
We always love to hear from you so please share which tools you're using for a calm and peaceful day.