33 simple ways to combat anxious feelings
As many of you know, this pregnancy has been a season of joy as well as anxious feelings for me. Anyway, I jotted down all of the ways I've been combating the anxious feelings in hopes that they will help you or someone you know who is in a rut (pregnant or not!) Prayers for you, sister!
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Give it to God & go to sleep
Keep a notebook by your bedside and write down every anxious thought swirling around your head before you go to bed. Give them to God, and go to sleep! -
Force yourself to go outside
...even if it's just to grab the mail from your mailbox. -
Pause. Pray.
"Come, Holy Spirit." -
Start your Christmas shopping
Shopping for others can be fun, and getting a leg up on shopping will relieve a lot of stress during the Advent Season, allowing you to focus on Jesus. -
Thrift it up!
Go to the thrift store and buy an old mirror or coffee table & give it new life! -
Pray a rosary
...or just a decade! If this isn't your favorite form of prayer, try sleeping with it under your pillow or in your hands for added comfort & protection from Mama Mary. -
Treat yourself
Can you say pedicure? Chick-fil-A? Soft serve ice cream? Yes, girl. Do it. -
Pick a day & go to daily mass
Write it on your calendar so you don't forget. -
Give your room a makeover
Surround yourself with images that will remind you that God's got your back. This one's my favorite:
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Gratitude goes a long way
Grab a journal or a spare piece of paper and write down 3 things you're thankful for today in this moment. -
Ask for prayer
This might feel awkward to reach out to friends or family for prayer, but can be a total game changer! -
Soak up some sun
Grab a comfy chair and sit outside. -
Change your bed sheets
There's just something about fresh bed sheets that has the power to improve anyone's mood! -
Start something new
What's your dream? Today, take one small step toward it. I totally recommend Chip Gaines' book, Capital Gaines, for some added inspiration! If you're dreaming up a creative venture, I've compiled a bundle of resources for Catholic Creatives here. -
Love ya!
Write a card to a friend or family member you love. Grab some cards from your stash or snag one of these.
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Wear a crucifix or a Miraculous Medal
Bonus points if it's blessed! -
Breathe.
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Take a day-cation.
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Watch this video.
Instant mood changer for me. -
Coloring: not just for kiddos
Grab a coloring book and get busy. The dishes can wait. -
Wear a temporary tattoo to remind you to KEEP. GOING.
Lots of good ones to choose from here. This one's my favorite though!
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Mirror, mirror...
Find your favorite Scripture verse and tape it to your mirror. Say it out loud daily. -
Hello, pumpkin spice candles!
What's your favorite season or scent? Grab a candle and let yourself be immersed in the aroma.
Here are some great suggestions from my Instagram followers. Thank you to everyone who contributed these great ideas!
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"Smile when you're anxious and visualize yourself somewhere. A place where you're happy and healthy. Like the beach, traveling, sitting listening to the rain, campfire with friends, etc." @schroederstitchery
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"Truly invest in your hobbies or anything that makes you happy! Take time for yourself." @lola.martin
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"Brain dump & make lists." @humblemissionbeads
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"Work out. Get back to nature." @thelittlethingsfloral
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"Listen to Needtobreathe." @marybobary
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"Take time for yourself, even when it feels like you have NO time. Adoration is always peaceful too." @cblaar97
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"Consistent exercise! Get yourself moving to produce the happy hormones!" @philomena_02
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"I find lavender helps. Candles, oils, lavender cuttings under my pillow..." @tamsincauchi
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"Baths with epsom salts, lavender, and oils." @togetherthetoveys
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"God is the Blessed Controller of all things, so repeat a prayer mantra like 'Jesus, I need you,' 'Mary, bring me strength through your Son,' 'Come, Holy Spirit.'" @togetherthetoveys
