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Goal Achievement

How to Reduce Anxiety by Doing These 3 Productive Things

Author:NeuroGym Team

The emotional turmoil that may take place as we move from summer to fall is challenging. And moving from fall into winter can be even more difficult.

Any change from the unabashed wandering and freedom of summer to the structure and expectation of fall is daunting—especially for those of us who live in a world where “summer” is a verb—not merely a time of year . . . but a way of being.

Sometimes the seasonal change can feel like another opportunity to fail and not meet expectations. So how do we manage to block the “back to school” doldrums?

First off, think of the beginning of the “school year” season as a clean slate of possibilities.

Become aware of what’s happening in your life.

Is fear, anxiety, or depression holding you back, isolating you, and keeping you from accomplishing your goals and dreams? Are you looking to restore your healthy mind and body but find it too difficulty to get back on track? Feeling overwhelmed with work and all your commitments?  If so, you’re not alone.

After struggling from a very early age with depression, anxiety, and a panic disorder, Dr. Heidi Hanna—who is now a New York Times bestselling author, Chief Energy Officer and founder of Synergy—knew she had to make some big changes.

The change came in the form of daily practice, and Heidi started doing three productive things a.k.a “the 3 M’s” to reduce stress and anxiety. She now makes it a priority to exercise (move), practice mindfulness (meditate), and have a good laugh (mirth) every day.

How Movement, Mediation, and Mirth (the 3 M’s) Can Bring Forth Positive Change

The 3 M’s can have a profound effect on your mood. Heidi explains that “once you start moving, the brain opens up a little bit . . . and you start to get into optimal thinking mode. You’re no longer in survival mode; you’re no longer thinking about all the stuff that you have to do.”

Think of exercise as a moving meditation; it’s mindfulness in action. ~ CLICK TO TWEET ~

Meditation doesn’t have to be done sitting on a cushion; it doesn’t have to be quiet. Mindful meditation is all about breath awareness and noticing your body. This practice allows your brain to recharge . . . as it lets go of the constant mind chatter.

And the last but not least of the 3 M’s is mirth.

Laughing at yourself, non-judgmentally and with compassion, is a super way to bring in the mirth and crush the stress. Laughter is often the best medicine, right? So find a comedian or friend who makes you laugh and spend more time with them.

Another way to find joy in the crevices of your daily life is by expressing feelings of gratitude. Express your appreciation for what’s happening in your life now and then visualize what you’ll be grateful for once you accomplish your goals and dreams.

And a shift in perspective (your mindset) and self-motivation will help you establish new daily success rituals—including Heidi’s three productive activities (the 3 M’s), expressing gratitude, and creative visualization.

A smooth transition into autumn comes down to recognizing and acknowledging how you want to spend your time. From there, it’s all about creating healthy new habits for the rest of the year. Are you ready to hit the reset button and create a healthy routine this fall?

Here’s a quick Innercise for creating a healthy routine.

1. Make a list of what’s most important to you and your family.

The list might include setting new goals, exercise, going to bed earlier, better nutrition and home cooked meals, scheduling time to relax, beginning (or getting back into) a meditation practice, developing a new skill, or dabbling in a new hobby.

When establishing your routine, consider your responsibilities, health, and wellness as well as your favorite leisure activities.

2. Write down your new and improved fall schedule in a journal, planner, and calendar on your fridge.

Even though the seasonal transition can sometimes be stressful, there’s also comfort and beauty that stems from routine. What healthy, new activities are you going to incorporate into your daily routine this fall and winter?

What’s next?

Learn how to upgrade your brain by using scientific methods for reducing anxiety and maintaining energy for optimal performance and ultimate goal achievement . . . Watch the Brain-A-Thon!

 

We’d love to hear from you!

Please let us know your goals and plans for the rest of the year.

About The Author

NeuroGym Team

NeuroGym Team: NeuroGym’s Team of experts consists of neuroscientists, researchers, and staff who are enthusiasts in their fields. The team is committed to making a difference in the lives of others by sharing the latest scientific findings to help you change your life by understanding and using the mindset, skill set and action set to change your brain.

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