Facing Anxiety Today

Anxiety can make us feel overwhelmed, stuck in our thoughts, and disconnected from the present moment. While anxiety is a normal human experience, there are simple coping skills that can help calm the mind and body when stress begins to build.

Here are four strategies you can practice on your own:

Focus on Your Breathing
Slow, deep breathing helps signal to your nervous system that you are safe. Try inhaling for four counts, holding for four counts, and exhaling for six counts.

Get Moving
A short walk, stretching, or light exercise can help release tension and reduce anxious energy. Even 10 minutes of movement can make a difference.

Challenge Anxious Thoughts
Ask yourself: "Is this thought based on facts or fears?" Looking at the evidence can help create a more balanced perspective.

Ground Yourself in the Present
Use the 5-4-3-2-1 technique: Identify 5 things you see, 4 things you feel, 3 things you hear, 2 things you smell, and 1 thing you taste. This can help bring your attention back to the present moment.