Stop Worrying

Worry is a multiple headed monster, it’s tough to stop it at the first attempt, but if you are determined and try several different points of attack, you can rise above it in the end. Physical activity is a great way to get ‘out of your head’ and recover a feeling of peace and mental transparency. You’ll get most benefit from a really good workout, but any physical activity that engages your senses can make a difference – washing the dishes, walking down the road, enjoying a hot bath or making something with your hands.

Creative people can be particularly prone to worry, because when you think about it, worry takes a lot of imagination. It’s as though your inner self is running fearful thrillers or grisly horror movies about all the terrible things that could happen to you. Worrying can become a habit so you end up dwelling on things that are unlikely to happen. This isn’t helpful and will only make you feel worse. Focus on the present. When fears come into your head, mentally say “stop!” Then divert yourself with a productive task such as cleaning the kitchen floor or going for a run.

We don’t always have control over what happens to us but we can control how we deal with things. If you focus on the bad stuff, the viewpoint may seem miserable but finding a positive angle will instantly make you feel more positive. Every time you have a thought that makes you anxious, get your mind to think of a more upbeat take on it.

Eat regularly and choose foods that help keep your blood sugar steady, such as bread and cereals, foods containing tryptophan, an amino acid that helps you feel cool. These include bananas, chicken, turkey, tuna, nuts and seeds.
Avoid coffee, cigarettes and too much alcohol, which can all make nervousness worse.