Lately, I’ve been feeling very anxious and while studying psychology has given me a plethora of coping techniques and insights. It still can be difficult getting through the day when that dark cloud is above my head.
Being mindful can make a difference (results may vary depending on grit and overall mood). However, I’ve learned that it’s okay to have a good cry and then go on a date with myself and reflect on things; being aware of my emotions, thoughts, motives, and even how my body reacts to certain things is very important, but often dismissed or neglected, which can lead to bottled up emotions that inevitably explodes with Vesuvius-like ferocity.
I usually find it easier to be in the comforts of home, just taking a moment to breathe in deeply, focusing on my breathing and not thinking for few minutes helps to ‘reset’ my thoughts. If I’m out, I’ll find a quiet spot at a café, earphones plugged without listening to anything where I can detach myself from the surrounding noise, settle down, take a moment to enjoy a hot cup of tea and/or a slice of cake with a journal or sketchbook in hand.