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How to Cope with Waves of Anxiety (Bite-size Article)

Introduction

In our daily lives, we often experience various forms of anxiety. It may stem from work, relationships, or worries about the future, and the reasons are diverse. The "waves of anxiety" that suddenly come crashing in are unpredictable and can feel overwhelming, but by learning how to navigate these waves rather than getting swept away, we can regain a sense of inner stability.

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Accepting Anxiety

First, it’s essential to understand that waves of anxiety come to everyone. No matter how confident a person may seem, there will always be moments in life when they feel anxious. Anxiety is a sign of life; it’s an indication that we are adapting to changes. Accepting anxiety as a natural part of life is the first step. I, too, feel anxious about the future, but I believe it’s important to acknowledge and face it.

When we look back at history, even great figures have faced anxiety. For example, the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, experienced deep anxiety and loneliness during the Civil War. Lincoln’s anxiety stemmed from doubts about whether he was on the right path as the nation was divided and lives were being lost. However, he acknowledged his anxiety while still believing, "I am making the right choice in history", and kept moving forward. Anxiety comes to everyone, but how we face it is what matters most.

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Having Small Supports

To cope with anxiety, it’s essential to have small "life rafts." These life rafts are small actions or habits that provide a sense of security. Here are some examples:

  • Take deep breaths: Slowly taking deep breaths can help calm your heart rate and ease feelings of anxiety. By focusing on your breathing, you can bring your mind back to the present moment.

  • Move your body: Activities like yoga, stretching, or taking a walk are highly effective for calming the mind. By releasing tension through light exercise, you may find that your anxiety lessens.

  • Create a gratitude list: Try writing down at least one thing each day that made you happy or something you’re grateful for. This practice can help shift your perspective to a more positive one, distancing you from anxiety and negative emotions. By finding small joys, you can bring a sense of calm and security to your heart.

  • Immerse yourself in activities you enjoy: Listening to music, reading, drawing—engaging in activities you love can also be effective. This allows you to temporarily detach from anxiety and create a time for relaxation.

  • Talk to someone: When feeling anxious, talking to a trusted friend or family member can help lighten the load. By talking, you can organize your thoughts and feel supported.

By having these "small supports", you can stay afloat on the waves of anxiety rather than getting swept away.

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Conclusion

Coping with waves of anxiety is never easy, but by understanding anxiety and using small supports, you can gradually learn to ride these waves. Anxiety can also be an element that helps us grow, and how we face it tests our strength. By confronting anxiety, we can develop into stronger and more resilient versions of ourselves.

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