18 Simple Ways to Clear Your Anxious Mind and Relax

Stacy King is an American author of contemporary fiction and nonfiction. Currently she's writing her first contemporary romance. She resides in Florida. View all posts by Stacy King

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Have you been obsessing over the news? I have. Do you feel anxious because of COVID-19? I do. Do you feel out of control? I have at times. Are you seeking calm? I am.

As you can see, we are in this together. We are not alone. And no matter our situation, we can clear our anxious minds if that is what we seek. And we can start the process right now.

In fact, below are some ideas that will get you started down the path to a calmer you. We have the power to create a sense of calm for ourselves during these turbulent times we live in. We just have to reclaim our power and take the steps to do so. Who's in control now? Happy relaxing!

1. Take off your work hat.

If we let it, work can consume us, even after hours. The good news is, work-life balance is possible. If there's something you don't want to forget or you have other concerns like say for instance you don't want to forget a new process, write it down and put it nearby where you'll see it the next time you're on the clock. And forget about it. No matter the day of the week, when your workday comes to an end, throw that hat off or hang it on a hook, figuratively speaking. Soon enough you'll be putting the work hat back on. For now, put on another hat and enjoy life.

2. Fill the air with a scent you enjoy.

Open up those cupboards and get out your favorite scented candle or wax warmer and melts. Maybe you prefer incense or some other type of scented air freshener. Whatever you prefer, put it to use and fill your space with a scent that relaxes you.

3. Take a short break from social media.

And turn off the TV, especially is the news is upsetting. We want to be in the know, but we also need to replenish.

4. Tidy your space.

A clean space can create a calming environment. And it only takes minutes to do. Putting things in their place can do the trick. Declutter and enjoy the positive benefits!

5. Connect.

Connect with a neighbor, a friend, a loved one or someone you find important to you. The act of connecting via phone, the internet, in-person or however you choose, can put a stressed out mind at ease.

6. Pet your dog.

Pet your dog, cat, horse or other beloved animal. Simply giving our animals a good pet can ease our mind. And our pets enjoy it too!

7. Enjoy a hot cup of herbal tea.
Image by diapicard from Pixabay

Have you given herbal tea a try? There are a lot of delicious flavors to choose from like Twinings Earl Grey Decaf and Bigelow Orange & Spice. Experiment and savor the moment.

8. Go outside and breathe in the fresh air.

Breathing in fresh air can clear a cluttered mind. Simply take in a deep breath and slowly exhale. You just might find yourself wanting to do this more than once. As you enjoy the fresh air, let those pesky anxiety inducing thoughts go.

9. Tend to your Garden. If you don't have a garden, tend to your houseplants.

If you don't have a houseplant, acquire one and nurture it. And if you have flowers growing in your garden, cut a few and place them in a flower vase or cute cup and put them on display inside or outside your home.

10. Put on your comfy pajamas because...

Why not?

11. Take the dog on a walk.

Go on an adventure with your dog. Taking the dog on a walk is a great way to refocus on the current moment, especially if your furry pal is learning the ropes. There's something in it for both of you. Remember to stay at least 6 feet away from others when walking your dog on a leash.

12. Give yourself a manicure.

Go ahead. Pick out your favorite nail color and get to painting! It's fun, relaxing and a good distraction from life's stressors.

13. Give meditation a try.
Image by Peter H from Pixabay

Stake your claim. Don't let obtrusive thoughts rule your mind. Instead, achieve a stable mental state with meditation.

14. Try a yoga pose.

Stretch your body and feel the stress leave. Even a good stretch in the morning before you get out of bed helps. If you'd like to learn a few yoga poses, there are videos on YouTube that might be useful if you're a beginner.

15. Listen to music you like.

Do you prefer jazz? Play some light jazz. Do you prefer the sounds of nature? Play nature sounds. Whatever your taste, put it to work for you. You can find your favorite music genre(s) on YouTube.

16. Read.

What's on your reading list? Is it fiction or nonfiction? If you have the book, what are you waiting for? Dust it off and get to reading. Let the story pull you in and enjoy the adventure! If you want to purchase a book, head over to Amazon, Barnes & Noble or your fav bookstore. Whatever your preference, enjoy shopping and delve into that book when you get it. Happy reading!

17. Play a game of Solitaire using a real deck of cards.

To play a game of Solitaire, all you need is a deck of cards and some you time. This is a one player card game. If you need a refresher, or would like to learn how to play the game, head over to Bicycle Cards, and click on HOW TO PLAY. From there, find the rules for Solitaire and have fun!

18. Do something you've been wanting to do but you keep putting it off.

Do you want to learn how to play guitar? Go for it! Do you want to learn how to sing? The mic is yours. Whatever it is, just be safe about it. So what do you want to do?

Now's the time.