Your ultimate (realistic) last-minute guide to making the most of the days before Christmas
Amid all the hustle, staying organised and finding small ways to recharge in the last-minute days before Christmas can help you navigate this busy time.
Living with anxiety can be challenging, but incorporating self-care tips for anxiety into your daily routine can significantly improve your wellbeing.
So, we wanted to pull together a few evidence-based self-care tips to empower you to take control of your anxiety and enhance your mental health.
However, it is important to note that the Story of My Life Journal is not an accredited mental health service. The advice, tools, and exercises provided are general in nature and should not replace professional medical support.
If you require immediate assistance, please contact Lifeline Australia at 13 11 14 or visit their website: www.lifeline.org.au.
Journaling, including your Story of My Life Journal, is a powerful self-care tool that can help manage anxiety.
By writing down your thoughts and emotions, you can gain clarity and perspective on your triggers and anxieties.
Numerous studies have shown the benefits of expressive writing for anxiety reduction (1).
Consider starting a journaling practice by setting aside dedicated time each day to reflect on your feelings, fears, and achievements.
Write freely, without judgment, and let your thoughts flow.
You may find it helpful to explore gratitude journaling or structured prompts to guide your writing.
Engaging in regular physical activity is a valuable self-care strategy to manage anxiety.
Exercise releases endorphins, natural mood-boosting chemicals that help reduce stress and anxiety levels.
In fact, research suggests that exercise can be as effective as medication or therapy in alleviating anxiety symptoms (2).
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, which can include brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming.
Find an activity you enjoy and make it a part of your routine to promote mental wellbeing.
Mindfulness and meditation are effective practices for reducing anxiety by promoting relaxation and focus.
Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, while meditation involves cultivating a calm and peaceful state of mind.
Research has shown that mindfulness-based interventions can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms and improve overall mental health (3).
Consider integrating mindfulness into your daily routine through activities like deep breathing exercises, guided meditation apps, or mindfulness-based stress reduction programs.
Sleep plays a crucial role in managing anxiety and maintaining overall well-being.
Lack of sleep can exacerbate anxiety symptoms and make it challenging to cope with stress.
Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to promote optimal mental health (4).
Establish a consistent sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.
Create a sleep-friendly environment by keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, and avoid stimulating activities before bed, such as screen time.
Building a supportive social network is essential for managing anxiety.
Strong social connections provide a sense of belonging, understanding, and emotional support.
Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or support groups who can offer empathy and encouragement.
Participating in community activities or joining interest-based groups can help you connect with like-minded individuals and reduce feelings of isolation (5).
Incorporating relaxation techniques into your self-care routine can effectively reduce anxiety.
Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery have been found to promote relaxation and alleviate anxiety symptoms (6).
Take time each day to practice these techniques and find the ones that resonate with you.
Don’t forget that your Story of My Life Journal is packed with support tools in this area.
If you’re experiencing mental health challenges that you feel are beyond your capacity to handle by yourself, it’s important to seek support – it’s the bravest action you can take.
The following is a list of Australian services:
Managing anxiety through self-care practices is a proactive and empowering approach to improving mental well-being.
Remember, self-care is a personal journey, so experiment with different strategies and find what works best for you.
However, the most important aspect to remember is to prioritize your mental health and seek professional help if needed.
From your weekly companion, to your daily support tool – SOML has you covered.
Amid all the hustle, staying organised and finding small ways to recharge in the last-minute days before Christmas can help you navigate this busy time.
The holiday season is upon us — a rare chance to step away from the daily grind, but whether you’re single, part of a couple, or navigating family dynamics, making the most of time off requires a little planning and intention.
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and connection, but let’s face it – it can also feel overwhelming.
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