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For most of us, coping with anxiety during the pandemic was like taking on an extra full-time job. Our daily routines were thrown off-kilter, we lost our sense of direction, our sense of place in the world. And it didn’t matter if you were an extroverted or introverted anxiety sufferer, it was overwhelming. But now we face a new challenge; the world is reopening. Are you ready?
Coping with Anxiety in a Post-Pandemic Era
Restaurants, bars, and venues are once again filling with the sounds of chatter, laughter, and joy. The grocery store, malls, and retail shops are now a sea of newly unmasked faces, and for many of us who white-knuckled our way through this pandemic, this post-pandemic era is setting the scene for an avalanche of anxiety and panic attacks.
So, let’s take a few moments to pause. Take three really long, deep breaths. You’re not alone in this. There are many relaxation techniques and coping methods for anxiety that you can use to calm your anxiety as you enter back into the ‘real world’. Here are a few tips to help you cope with anxiety in this post-pandemic era:
1. Take Control of What You Can
Much of our anxiety can stem from situations in our lives that make us feel like we have no control. The way in which we step back out into the world is something we can control. Empower yourself, take control of your routine, and always have a backup plan so you can anticipate sudden changes.
2. Alter Your Routine
During the pandemic, you may have established some set routines for yourself to create some sense of normalcy amidst all of the chaos. You found your feet and took control. Now, you may have to make a few changes to create space for yourself. For example, if you were grocery shopping every Friday morning because it was relatively quiet and you were trying to avoid people, you may have to change to a different day now that now with capacity restrictions being lifted.
3. Take Your Time
Just because it feels like the rest of the world is rushing to get out there and rub shoulders with random strangers again does not mean that you have to. Set your boundaries, and don’t let anyone whether it’s a work colleague, family member, or close friend, tell you that you need to do anything other than step into the world at your own pace, under your own terms. And if you are feeling some pressure, sit down with those in your inner circle and express your feelings about how you want to tackle existing in a post-pandemic society.
4. Focus on Being Present
There is a constant stream of news, social media, and public chatter coming at you from every direction. It’s too much. It’s too noisy. It’s not what you need. The key to not becoming overwhelmed is to focus on what’s here and now, and what’s in front of you – The present. You can’t change the past, nor predict the future, but you can live richly in the now. If you’re struggling with staying grounded and present, try using fidget tools as you navigate back into the world.
Worry Stones for Anxiety
Worry stones for anxiety are amazing and a personal favourite, as you get the combination of energy healing, acupressure and distraction all in one. They’re also an affordable option.
Meraki Spheres
Meraki Spheres are another beautiful fidget tool that takes your expectations to the next level. These fidget spheres are made with real gold and gemstones for anxiety and mental health, and can be worn as a bracelet when you don’t need them. You just pull at different areas of the fidget sphere and change the shape and mesmerize your mind at the same time. I am totally obsessed… If you can’t tell.
Anxiety Rings
Meditation Rings are another absolute must. I’m sure you’ve seen anxiety spinning rings online or filling up your social feed and that’s because these beautiful pieces of jewelry are the perfect coping tool for anxiety. The anxiety rings blend right into your day as a typical piece of jewelry but secretly doubles (and triples) as a meditation device, coping mechanism, distraction tool – you name it. They’re beautiful and a top seller on our anxiety store and for all the right reasons.
Fidget Toys
Fidget cubes are another great distraction tool to use with different options to satisfy your senses and keep you grounded. Each side has a new sensation to keep your mind focused and anxiety at bay.
5. Double-Down on Your Meditation Practices
If meditation isn’t a strategy you use to help cope with anxiety, it may be something you want to try. Meditation allows you to take time out from any chaos that may be in your orbit. It provides you with the opportunity to create mental space, helps you to focus on your breathing, and create a path to clarity. Meditation allows us to exist with our thoughts, but not feel held hostage by them. Guided meditation is especially effective for first-timers or if you’re feeling exceptionally anxious.
Your anxiety doesn’t have to hold you, hostage, as you prepare to make your way back to this new normal. You can’t control how others behave around you, which can definitely feel frustrating at times. However, you can control the pace at which you take on life in this post-pandemic era. Give yourself space, and grace, and remember to breathe deeply, and as often as possible.
This blog post is sponsored by BetterHelp, but all opinions are my own. I may receive compensation from BetterHelp or other sources if you purchase products or services through the links provided on this page.
