When most people think of anxiety, they likely have negative connotations tied to it. Many make the assumption that anxiety will always lead to panic attacks and fears of major change, but just about anything can generate feelings of anxiety, and not all of them are harmful. However, if your anxiety stops you from doing something, it can hinder you almost every day. In honor of May being National Anxiety Month, here are three ways to reduce your anxiety. Daily Exercise Physical activity can increase your self-confidence, improve your mood, help you relax, and lower anxiety symptoms. You don’t have to do anything significant — you can go for a walk, take a hike, conduct at-home workouts, go to the gym for at least 30 minutes, or participate in yoga and Pilates. Meditate Sometimes, taking a step back, focusing on your breathing, and letting your thoughts flow in one ear and out the other can help you put things in perspective. JAMA Internal Medicine published an THE WORLD ISN’T ENDING 3 Strategies to Reduce Anxiety
Deararoo’s Favorite Lentil Soup
This healthy soup was the staple of Jack’s diet. He ate it almost every day, adding whatever was served for dinner. If made with vegetable broth instead of water, it’s even tastier!
INGREDIENTS
• 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 large onion, diced
article stating that practicing mindfulness can help ease feelings of anxiety, depression, and pain. You can meditate by following a guided meditation or silently sitting in a quiet area and breathing slowly. While meditating will be challenging at first, it will become easier with practice.
• 1–2 cloves garlic, minced • 5–6 carrots, sliced or diced • 5–6 stalks celery, sliced or diced • Salt and pepper (optional) • 1 tsp summer savory or marjoram • 2 bay leaves • 1 cup red lentils • 8 cups water or vegetable broth (or a combination) • 2 14-oz cans petite diced or stewed tomatoes
Face Anxiety Head-On Many people try to avoid anything that could make them feel anxious. While this method may make you feel short- term comfort, it can cause you to be more anxious about specific scenarios. The best
DIRECTIONS
1. In a large stock pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until softened. 2. Add the carrots and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables start to soften, about 10 minutes. Season with optional salt and pepper. Stir in savory, bay leaves, and lentils. 3. Add broth or water and bring to boil. Simmer 20 minutes covered, stirring occasionally. 4. Add tomatoes and simmer 5–10 minutes longer. Remove bay leaves before serving.
strategy to overcome anxiety is to face it head-on. Although it will be uncomfortable and challenging, don’t let it stop you! The more you put yourself out there, the less anxious you’ll feel. You’re stronger than you give yourself credit for! Please contact your health care provider if you’re worried about the anxious feelings you get. They can assist you with identifying your triggers, why anxiety is occurring, and methods you can use to reduce your symptoms.
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