Byron, Birkin, & Burch

Good morning friends! I hope the start of your day has been fabulous. I am still fighting this illness, so hopefully I will get better soon. Today, will probably be another lazy day, but I'm not mad about it :)

I think I mentioned this in a previous post, but as of late I have had very bad anxiety. I worry about everything, whether it is in my control or not. Sometimes it feels like an elephant is sitting on my chest and it isn't a good feeling. 

For Christmas my parents surprised me and my siblings with a trip to Mexico. This was a much needed vacation and it gave me time to think about how I can combat some of my anxious thoughts. I complied a list of 7 ways to help me cope with my anxiety. I am really excited to share them with you and hope they help if you are dealing with this mental illness as well. 

1. Be Positive 

This seems like a no-brainer, but I have to admit sometimes I lack positivity. I think one thing that helps is building yourself up. One bad situation does not make for an entire bad day. This year I want to brush things off and work on being more positive on a day to day basis. 

2. Cut it Out 

Unfortunately in life their are some people that just aren't what we need. Whether it is friends or boys, if they are not filling you up in a positive way, you need to cut them out of your life. It is important to be mindful of how other people are treating you and if they are worthy or not. However, it goes both ways. I want to make sure that not only are the people around me caring for my well being, but also that I care for them as well. 

3. Find a Hobby 

I don't mean just any hobby! Find one that calms you down or releases stress. This could be something like painting, yoga or a dance class. Anything that allows you to release some of your angst and helps you to relax for at least one hour a day. This could make a huge difference with your anxiety. 

4. Start a Journal 

I know this sounds trivial, but it has really helped me relax and get rid of some of the worries. Writing down how you feel is a great way to express yourself. It could be as simple as writing down key words or even lyrics to describe how you are feeling in your journal. It only takes a few seconds, but I promise it will make a difference. 

5. Listen to Classical Music 

Not everyone enjoys classical music, but I have found that it really helps me focus. If you just take a few minutes to listen to the notes and melodies you get enthralled in the music. It is nice to listen to while you study or even while you are just having some quiet time. 

6. Treat Yourself 

Treating yourself doesn't always have to be expensive! This could be using a face mask, buying an ice cream cone, picking a flower or getting your nails done. We get so caught up in pleasing other people that we forget to please ourselves! So if you are having a bad day (or even a good day), treat yourself to something special. 

7. Pray 

I know not everyone is religious, which is totally ok, but if you are then this tip might help you. Sometimes nothing can stop the pain or the anxiety that overwhelms us. In those times it is important to turn to God and ask for His help. He is always there to listen and will give you a sense of peace. 

Those were some of my ways of combatting anxiety. Obviously, everyone is different so you may cope in other ways. My main goal with this post was to give hope to those of you who are feeling lost and alone. I am always here to talk if needed :)

Thank you for reading and have a worry free day!

Morgan xx