“The clearest way into the universe is through a forest wilderness.” – John Muir
I went hiking yesterday; I also suffered with anxiety.
Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome – at least that’s how the dictionary defines it.
That’s how I felt yesterday afternoon.
I was sitting at my desk yesterday, trying to think on topic, but all I felt was uneasiness. I was completely anxious without any given reason. So, I stopped what I was doing, closed my work for the day, and headed home to get my tennis shoes.
I needed to clear my head and get outdoors. I needed space to breath. I grabbed my friend, Maddie, and off we went to hike the Angelina College Forest Fitness Trail. The trial is a small hike and not too far from civilization, but it was exactly what I needed to breathe and clear my head.
Besides the sweat and the bugs, talking with Maddie and walking through the trials allowed me to do just what I needed. I was able to calm down, enjoy the nature around me, and focus on walking.
Anxiety is something I’ve dealt with for the last seven years. It’s increased more within the last three years, but I’ve also learned how to better deal with it.
Here are three ways I’ve learned to deal with my anxiety.
Hiking/Nature – Taking a walk through a garden or hiking in the forest has been a way I’ve discovered helps me feel at peace. Even hearing a rain storm calms my troubled mind. I am able to step away from the chaos of life and focus on the beauty of nature. That’s exactly what hiking did for me yesterday.
Talking with friends and family – Close relationships are the most important aspect of my life; those relationships have also helped me throughout the years overcome anxiety and panic attacks. My husband, Ryan, has a very calming presence in my life and is the best antidote I have when I am under stress. He is able to calm me down, talk me through it, and help me breathe. Other relationships in my life such as church leaders, siblings, parents, friends, and teachers are those who have greatly strengthened my life and helped me process thoughts and emotions when I needed it most.
Being still – Above all, being still has helped me the most. When I feel my anxiety coming on, I stop what I am doing; I close my laptop, put my phone away, and I focus on my breathing. Stepping away from the chaotic moment, taking time to think and meditate is greatly important in the chaos of the world around us, especially in my life. Those moments of silence are important to gain composure during stressful times.
Anxiety is different for each person, and there are different ways to help manage those stressful times. Here are a few other strategies to help you cope: eat well-balanced meals, limit alcohol and caffeine, get enough sleep, exercise, count to 10 slowly, welcome humor, maintain a positive attitude, get involved, and learn what triggers your anxiety.
After my hike yesterday and visit with my friend, I slept for a solid eight hours. I woke up this morning and my anxiety was gone. My mind was clear, and I was ready for the day. Anxiety may come and go at different times in my life, but I know I may just need a hike in the forest and a talk with a good friend to help clear my mind and keep my anxiety at bay.
