What is Mindfulness and how does it help with anxiety?

The practice of mindfulness is being aware of your senses and present in the moment.   When you are mindful, you are not only in touch with your senses, but aware of your thoughts, feelings, and emotions.  Anxiety can be manifested in may ways for many different people.  Rumination, changes in sleep patterns,  gastrointestinal issues, constant worry, sweaty palms, and rapid heartbeat are ways that people experience anxiety.   Mindfulness is not limited to meditation, but it is a type of mindful practice.  Mindful walking, mindful eating, deep breathing, guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation are all mindful practices.  Anxiety tends to be based on past or future events, but mindfulness challenges you to stay present in the moment.  If you are experiencing anxiety, focusing on your environment can be a great tool for managing anxiety.  Here are some suggestions:

1.  Learn diaphramatic breathing.   This is an effective tool for learning how to breathe when dysregulated.
 This is a good video for learning this technique.  https://youtu.be/kgTL5G1ibIo

2.  Counting- Counting can be a great tool for staying present in the moment when anxious.   

3. Sing a song such as "Row, Row, Row your boat" can help regulate and aids with staying present.

4. Walk!  Walking can stimulate the vagus nerve and help to release energy when tense.  Challenge yourself to engage your senses.  What do you see, hear, smell,  and feel?   What are you thinking about during the walk?

5. Painting-Set up an easel and paint what your see or observe in your environment. 

I hope that you will try these suggestions and let me know if these work for you.