Battling My Anxiety During Community Quarantine

Everyday is a constant battle against anxiety and boredom. Being isolated from the real world because of this coronavirus outbreak, our emotions gone wild. We suddenly worry about so many things. We are trapped in our own homes, overthinking when and how will this crisis be over. Our daily activities are limited and we can only keep up with what is now called the"new normal". This unfortunate circumstance seems to dominate our daily lives until a vaccine is developed to combat the dreadful crown of Covid-19.

Meanwhile, we are left with no choice but to deal with the challenges brought about by this global pandemic. We have to be creative, proactive, artistic, resourceful and motivated to refocus our attention from negative thoughts to positive vibes.

SYMPTOMS OF ANXIETY and PANIC ATTACK

• Palpitations
• Sweating
• Trembling
• Shortness of breath
• Sense of choking
• Chest pain
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Feeling of being detached from the world (de-realization)
• Fear of dying
• Numbness or tingling in the limbs or entire body
• Chills or hot flushes
• Sense of impending danger

So how do I manage my anxiety? Well, I've been reading a lot about the natural remedies on how to relieve anxiety. I don't want to rely on oral medication and fortunately, doing some effective routine gives me a sense of calmness during unexpected episodes. But it doesn't mean that what works for me may work for you.

• The 4-7-8 breathing technique or the “relaxing breath" is actually a great help to fall asleep faster. It involves breathing in through nose for 4 seconds, holding the breath for 7 seconds, and exhaling through mouth for 8 seconds.

• Aromatherapy using essential oils may help promote relaxation. For me, whiteflower comes in handy.

• Listen to soothing music is an instant relief. I downloaded a calming piano music with water sounds on youtube. It lasts for 3 hours and its effects can be almost anaesthetic.

• Learn how to do some accupressure on yourself. It can help release tension and promote blood circulation. With your index finger and thumb, apply firm pressure to the webbing between the thumb and index finger of your other hand. Massage the pressure point for four to five seconds, taking slow, deep breaths.

Image not mine 

• Nutrient deficiency may trigger anxiety. Our nervous system requires essential vitamins and minerals in order to function properly. I take food supplements everyday like B complex, vitamins A, C and E. Regular sun exposure is the most natural way to get enough vitamin D. To maintain healthy blood levels, aim to get 10–30 minutes of midday sunlight, several times per week. Of course, nothing beats consuming healthy and nutritional foods to boost my immune system.

• Get busy with anything productive like exercising or simply doing house chores. I cook. I clean. I do laundry. I do the dishes. I water my potted plants and take photographs of my roses.  See how those blooms and greens knock out my distress.

 

• Prayer is powerful. Having a personal relationship with God gives me a sense of security and strength. He is the greatest doctor. He's indeed, the greatest healer. 

• Finally, it's always a pleasure getting back on track. Writing is another effective way to keep my mind busy, boosting those happy hormones and creating positive thoughts.

These are my anxiety busters. How about yours?