In today’s world, how to manage anxiety has become a pressing concern for many of us. Whether it’s a fleeting moment of worry or a more persistent feeling that seems to linger, anxiety touches our lives in ways that can deeply affect our sense of peace and well-being. If you or someone you care about is navigating the challenges of anxiety, know that you’re not alone—and there are gentle, compassionate ways to learn how to manage anxiety and find calm in the storm.
Anxiety, while often spoken about as something to overcome, can also be an opportunity to deepen our relationship with ourselves. By shifting how we relate to our anxiety, we can transform it from something that overwhelms us into something that informs us. This shift can positively impact not only our inner world—our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors—but also how we interact with those around us. Here are three practices that have been especially helpful in finding calm amidst the storm of anxiety:
1) Naming the Anxiety and Its Physical Presence
One of the first steps in calming the waters of anxiety is to name it. When we can identify what’s making us anxious and understand why, the intensity of that anxiety can often begin to soften. Part of this process involves tuning into where we feel anxiety in our bodies. For me, this might be a tightness in my chest, a tingling in my fingers, or a heat rising in my face. By naming the anxiety and acknowledging its physical sensations—without judgment—we start the journey toward self-compassion and deeper understanding. This gentle acknowledgment can be the first wave of relief in an otherwise turbulent sea.
2) Sitting with Uncertainty
As human beings, we are wired to seek control and certainty. We want answers, clarity, and the reassurance that everything will be okay. But life doesn’t always offer that kind of predictability. There are moments when we must sit with uncertainty, even when it’s uncomfortable. For example, not knowing how someone feels about us can be unsettling. However, instead of allowing anxiety to drive our actions, we can challenge ourselves to sit with that uncertainty. It’s a practice that, while difficult, can be incredibly liberating. Embracing the unknown as part of our journey helps us build resilience and trust in our ability to navigate life’s unpredictability.
3) Tuning into Our Needs
When anxiety arises, it’s often a signal that there’s something deeper that needs our attention. Asking ourselves what we need in these moments is an essential part of the process. Do we need to talk things through with a trusted friend or therapist? Do we need to nourish our bodies with a meal or a few deep breaths? Maybe we need to take a moment to journal our thoughts or seek clarity around a confusing situation. Recognizing and addressing our needs is a skill that takes practice, but it’s a powerful way to soothe anxiety and restore a sense of balance.
Finding Your Anchor
How to manage anxiety is not about eliminating it from our lives but rather learning how to navigate it with compassion and understanding. It’s about finding your anchor in the storm, a steady place where you can return to calm. If you find yourself overwhelmed by anxiety, remember that you don’t have to go through it alone. Professional support can offer guidance, tools, and a safe space to explore what you’re feeling. Mary Oliver’s collection of poems, House of Light, is a phenomenal addition to wherever you may be on your mental health journey.
Affirmation of the Day: “I am attuned to my needs and take steps to care for myself.”
At Anchored Counseling Co., we’re here to support you in this journey. Whether you’re just beginning to explore these practices or have been working on managing anxiety for some time, we believe in your ability to find peace and resilience. We’re rooting for you every step of the way.
Becoming Anchored in Hope,
Laura
Laura is committed to guiding individuals along their path to mental wellness and has carefully gathered a team of skilled, knowledgeable, and committed therapists at Anchored Counseling Company to assist in this mission. The professionals here create an environment that is supportive and affirming, informed by an understanding of trauma. At Anchored Counseling Co., there’s a shared belief in the fundamental worth of each person, and therapy is delivered with warmth and empathy. The therapeutic philosophy here is built on the premise that every client has the natural ability to enact meaningful and enduring change in their life. To connect with a therapist who aligns with your unique needs, please contact our office at 615.510.3797 or visit our website today.
