Last Thursday morning, I was sitting in my office when a new client walked in. The first thing I noticed was the look of worry etched on their face. As they sat down, they let out a deep sigh and began to explain what had brought them in.
They were feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the state of our country. With unrest among politicians, school shootings and racial division becoming all too frequent, they were worried about what the future held for them. They described feeling like they were constantly on edge, unable to relax and enjoy life.
At ZRCS we see this type of anxiety and fear often. It’s a natural response to the chaos and uncertainty that surrounds us. But what many people don’t realize is that anxiety and fear can lead to emotional and physiological symptoms that can impair functioning.
For this client, these symptoms included difficulty sleeping, trouble concentrating, and a lack of motivation. They were struggling to get through their day-to-day activities, and it was affecting their quality of life.
Fortunately, there are things that can be done to help manage these symptoms and improve overall well-being. Here are five grounding activities that can you can do if you’re struggling with the craziness of the world. Connect to the activities and people that make them feel connected and restored:
- Spend time in nature: Nature has a way of calming our minds and bodies. Take a walk outside, go for a hike, or simply sit in a park and listen to the sounds of nature.
- Connect with others: Isolation can make anxiety and fear worse. Spend time with friends and family members who make you feel supported and loved.
- Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is a way of staying present in the moment and not getting lost in anxious thoughts about the future. Try meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to help stay centered.
- Engage in creative activities: Creative activities like painting, drawing, or writing can be a great way to release pent-up emotions and relieve stress. Try something new or revisit an activity you used to enjoy.
- Decrease social media and news consumption: While it’s important to stay informed, too much exposure to social media and the news can be overwhelming. Limit your consumption of these sources, and to focus on positive news stories and uplifting content. I promise that it’s there!
- Volunteer and focus on helping others and make a difference in your community. The act of kindness will you feeling full and grateful.
As therapists, we have a unique opportunity to help clients manage anxiety and fear in a healthy way. By encouraging grounding activities like those listed above, we can help our clients connect with the world around them and find a sense of peace and calm in the midst of chaos.
Our therapists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals. We offer a variety of evidence-based therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, and more.
Remember, at Soar Therapy and Integrated Wellness Counseling Services, you are not alone. We are here to help you navigate life’s challenges and find the strength and resilience you need to thrive. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a brighter future.
Be Well,
