HEALTHY LIVING TIPS:
It is no doubt that our lifestyle have huge impact on how we feel. When we do not properly take care of ourselves, we can experience a number of problems, such as fatigue, sleeping problems, trouble concentrating, and increased stress and tension. These problems make us susceptible to anxiety. Though the goal of a healthy lifestyle is not to eliminate anxiety (because anxiety plays significant adaptive role), but to help us function optimally.
Below are some helpful tips to making a healthy living;
1. EAT HEALTHY.....Go for a balanced and healthy diet. Eat consistently throughout the day and do not skip meals. Prepare more of your own meals and make sure you check food labels. Choose low sugar products. Eat more of vegetables, fruits that are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber and low calories. Always drink plenty of water, as water helps flush out systems of waste-products and toxins.
2.
BECOME ACTIVE.....Regular exercise can have
a positive impact on both your emotional and physical health. In fact, exercise is one of the most powerful
tools for managing stress and anxiety.
However, it can be hard to start a regular exercise program. So, start small and work your way up. Aim for at least 20 minutes of physical
exercise three to four times a week.
You’ll be more likely to stick with a program if you choose something
you enjoy (such as skiing, hiking, gardening, or swimming). Try joining a gym, signing up for an exercise
class, or finding a workout buddy (AnxietyBC®(no date)).
3. GET A GOOD NIGHT REST....Having difficulties in sleeping can potentiate anxiety problems and make it difficult to cope. Always stick to a sleep schedule of the same bed-time and wake-up time, even on weekends. Having comfortable mattress, pillow and attractive room can be helpful.
4.
MANAGE STRESS....Though inevitable, stress
can have a negative effect on your health. Effective stress management can be
achieved by the acronym “STRESS”(Olarenwaju
Sodeinde(no date));
S-
Situation Appraisal. Always identify your stressors, and acknowledge your
limits. Learn to avoid or say no to additional responsibilities.
T-
Think Positively.
R-
Relax. Create time for relaxation and regular exercise. They reduce stress and
tension.
E-
Express Your Fillings. Always calm and soothe yourself when you are in a bad
mood.
S-
Share Your Problems With Others.
S-
Show Mercy. Forgive and learn to forgive.
5.
SET A ROUTINE......Establish a routine such
as having specific times for meals, work, housework, meditating, and
bedtime. We feel more secure when there
is some predictability to our day. It
also helps us get things done and reminds us to take time for ourselves. Having a routine can help you to set the
stage to better manage your anxiety. Learn also to manage your time and do no
procrastinate.
6.
REDUCE STIMULANTS........Excessive caffeine can
lead to sleep problems and heightened anxiety.
Try to reduce your caffeine intake.
This includes coffee, some teas, soda, and chocolate. If you drink a lot of caffeinated beverages,
it’s better to gradually reduce the amount of caffeine that you have every
day. Smoking is also a strong stimulant
(AnxietyBC®(no date)). Please quit. Quitting smoking may also leave you less
prone to anxiety. Remember, “Smokers are liable to die young”.
7.
AVOID ALCOHOL AND DRUGS......It is never a good idea
to use alcohol or drugs to help you cope with anxiety. This create more
problems. If you have problems with anxiety, try to avoid using drugs and
alcohol as a way to cope with negative feelings. If you think that you may have a problem with
drugs or alcohol, talk to your doctor(AnxietyBC®(no date)).
8. ESTABLISH SOCIAL SUPPORT......It is important to have
people in your life that you can count on. It helps to be able to talk to a
friend when you have had a bad day or are struggling with a problem. Having a
good social network has been linked to greater well-being. Having at least one good supportive friend
can make a difference(AnxietyBC®(no date)).
I will end with an Arabian proverb that says; “He who has health, has hope; and he who has hope, has everything”.
References:
Olarenwaju Sodeinde, "Practical Strategies
for Effective Stress Management". 