Dealing with feelings of anxiety can be difficult, but implementing new strategies and reaching out for support is always a great place to start. Lifehack recently offered readers some tips on how to stop feeling anxious and regain peace of mind.
Here are four things they suggest:
1. Adjust your diet
Sugary foods, processed foods, alcohol, caffeine and artificial sweeteners make anxiety worse. Try anxiety-reducing foods like dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds, Brazil nuts, fatty fish, eggs, turmeric and more.
READ MORE | How good food can actually boost your mood this winter
2. Hydration is key
Research suggests that even mild dehydration can worsen anxiety.
If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety and depression, contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) on 0800 456 789.
3. Incorporate mindfulness into your daily life
Meditation and diaphragmatic breathing are just two better-known examples of mindfulness techniques. Lifehack suggests a practice called five things, based upon our five senses and focusing the mind on each one individually.
READ MORE | 'Overthinking thrives off chaos': Psychotherapist shares helpful ways to beat those bad thoughts
4. Exercise regularly
Thirty minutes of exercise three to five days a week can significantly reduce anxiety. One study found that exercise was equally as effective as medication in treating symptoms of anxiety.
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