How I'm overcoming my anxiety

I realise that the title of this post is very optimistic, not everyone is able to fight their anxieties. But I honestly can't imagine having to deal with my mental issues for the rest of my life and I plan on doing everything I can to overcome them!
I have improved massively over the past few weeks, so I wanted to share some of the things that I'm doing and just generally track how far I've come on my journey.

Literature

When I shared my blog post explaining my anxiety I was almost immediately receiving messages with book recommendations from people. Reading these books has made the biggest positive changes so far.
Being able to relate and understand exactly what the author is discussing has definitely reminded me that I'm not alone and applying the advice to my own life has completely fueled my progress. So far I have read "Self-help for your nerves" Dr Clare Weekes, the book explains the different variations of mental breakdowns and the steps that can be taken. The book is filled with different stories that relate to each point the author is making and it's extremely inspirational reading how people have overcome their depression and anxiety.
I'm currently reading "Feel the fear and do it anyway" Susan Jeffers and so far I'm feeling empowered and ready to face my fears and never allow them to control me like they have in the past.

Rest and respite

Of course the obvious tip when you are stressed and anxious is to take time for yourself.
I know a lot of the time for me clearing my mind has been near impossible, and there would always be thoughts racing no matter what, but it's important to relax and forget about the worries for as long as you possibly can. Guilt free "me time" is so important.
Some things I like to do when I need to unwind...

• Have a candle lit bubble bath and play some relaxing music (I reccomend Nick Allbrook's solo album, Ganough, Wallis & Fatuna... he and the album are both perfect!)

• Put on some clean bedding and have a duvet day with a good book or some Netflix.
• Go for a walk and get some fresh air. I've even started running with the dog when I'm up to it.
• Meditate and take time to concentrate on your breathing.
• Go for a coffee and do some people watching or flick through a magazine.

Think health

When I was at my worst with my anxiety I watched the Secret documentary and it became clear to me how negative I was being and how I was dwelling on my fears and therefore creating more and more fear. I was allowing every little thing to upset me and blaming it on my anxiety and almost encouraging it.
So immediately I began to believe I was healthy and happy and had no fears whatsoever. As cheesy as that sounds it has really worked for me, if I'm being negative at all I just take a breath and try to get back to the higher vibration. Listen to some positive music, be in nature or cuddle your pet (or a teddy bear!), it will all get you back to that positive mental state!

How could I be sad with this ball of fluff around?!

Keep a journal

Writing down and really exploring your feelings is so important! Of course I am able to do this on my blog, but I think having a diary or journal that's for your eyes only is extremely helpful. No judgement, no fears, just writing down whatever ramblings you have for the day or writing about your victories for the day, however big or small!
In my journal I write about all of my goals and my aspirations and I personally like to keep it as a positive space, because in reality it can be difficult to be so positive about yourself and to tell others about your crazy huge life goals, so it's great to have somewhere to write exactly how you feel!

My moon bear from Hanjipan designs

I know I can't tackle my demons overnight, but I'm willing to do everything in my power to live a life free of fear!

Please comment with any other tips or things that you have done that have helped with your anxiety, I would love to read about other peoples experiences!

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