Natural calamities, an uncertain global economy, nuclear radiation spreading, conflicts raging around the world. Its not surprising that anxiety is at an all-time global high. Medical experts say prolonged stress caused by these kinds of events, which are outside our control, may be especially damaging. Even more stressful is the fact that we dont know when, or if, these disasters are going to end. In studies stress has been shown to negatively affect blood pressure, digestion, mental wellbeing, sleep among other ailments.
The good news is that there are simple and practical ways to calm down.
--Stop listening to the news on TV or the radio (or your computer.) The constant stimulation feeds your anxious emotions. Turn them off and turn to something that makes you feel better, like sitting in the garden, walking or listening to music.
--Take a few minutes every day to simply be still. Allow your body to rest and your mind to settle.
--When you becoming scared or angry, stop yourself. Take a few deep breaths before reacting. You can also silently count to ten. The point is to get control of yourself first so you can choose how you want to respond.
--Volunteer. Studies show that volunteering for groups that need help helps counteract feelings of powerlessness and actually boosts optimism. If you dont have the time, or youre not the volunteer type, give some money to a charitable organization.
