Happiful – September 2019

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CREATE AN ANXIETY TOOLBOX

When it comes to managing my

mental health, I have a toolbox

full of things that make me feel

better. Maybe have a drawer in

your house, or a box in the car,

that you can reach into when

needed. I suggest the following

for anxiety:

• Lavender essential oil
  (calming and relaxing),
  or bergamot is a great
  alternative.
  
  
  • Affirmation cards can be a
    gentle reminder that you’ve
    got this, you’re amazing, and
    these feelings will pass.
  
  
  • Water and snacks, because
    drinking and eating
    regulates your breath, which
    is definitely needed when
    you’re anxious.
  
  
  • And lastly, something
    comforting – a teddy, a
    photo, whatever suits the
    individual.
  
  
  
  

So there we have it. My first

ever column complete!

Sending love and courage to

those experiencing anxiety of

any kind, but especially those

who are going back to school.

Until next month.

LEARN PHYSICAL TECHNIQUES

Although communication is great, it doesn’t always

decrease anxiety, and for some, it can heighten it.

The energetic path of any feeling needs to leave the

body at some point, so that we can reset to the present

moment. Grounding techniques are something I

learned in therapy, and often appear in my counselling

training. Focusing on sounds around you is a great way

to bring your heart rate back down, and to distract you

from difficult feelings. Hear the birds, the washing

machine, the kettle boiling. This is a reminder that you

are here, and you are safe. Another simple but effective

technique is to feel your feet underneath you. This

helps to stabilise you, and to give a little nudge to your

brain that you’re OK.

Love

Grace

x

HAPPIFUL’S NEW COLUMNIST!

@GRACEFVICTORY

Photography (black and white) | Paul Buller