Because sometimes even relaxing doesn’t feel relaxing…
Let’s be real: I haven’t fully figured out how to quiet my anxious mind—and that’s okay. If you’re anything like me, even when you’re watching your favorite comfort show or laying in bed after a long day, your brain might still be replaying work conversations or worrying about something that hasn’t even happened.
So if your mind never quite shuts up? You’re not alone.
These are just a few things that can help quiet the noise—no pressure to try them all. Just consider them gentle nudges, not prescriptions.
1. Give Yourself Permission to Do Nothing
Doing nothing is not laziness. Sometimes your brain needs space to breathe. Try laying down without a phone, without a goal. Just… exist. Let the thoughts pass like clouds.
2. Lavender Everything
It sounds cliché, but lavender actually has calming properties. Diffuse it, use it in a bath, or spray it on your pillow. It won’t cure anxiety, but it might take the edge off.
3. Write It All Out
Grab a notebook or use a notes app. Dump everything you’re thinking about. Don’t worry about grammar or sense—just get it out of your head and onto paper.
4. 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding
This one’s for when you feel like you’re spiraling.
- 5 things you can see
- 4 you can touch
- 3 you can hear
- 2 you can smell
- 1 you can taste
It brings you back to now.
5. A Playlist That Feels Like a Hug
Curate your own cozy playlist. Not the one you play for others. One for you—even if it’s just lo-fi beats or sad girl indie music. Music connects to emotions deeper than we realize.
6. Breathe Intentionally
We all breathe, but anxious breathing is shallow and fast. Try breathing in for 4, hold for 4, out for 4. Even two minutes can reset your nervous system.
7. Go Outside (Even for 5 Minutes)
There’s something powerful about fresh air. Sun on your skin, birds chirping, or even just the sound of wind. Nature helps you zoom out from overthinking.
8. Talk to a Friend or Voice Note Yourself
Sometimes just saying things out loud helps. Vent to a friend, or if no one’s around, voice note yourself. It’s weird at first, but weirdly therapeutic.
9. Move Your Body Gently
You don’t need to go all-out. Stretch. Walk around the block. Do yoga in your PJs. Movement tells your brain you’re safe, not stuck.
10. Remind Yourself: You’re Not Behind
Sometimes worry stems from feeling like you’re not doing enough. Repeat this to yourself: I am doing what I can, and that is enough right now. Even if your mind doesn’t fully believe it—your body will feel the kindness.
Final Thought:
If none of these help, that doesn’t mean you’re broken.
It just means your brain is doing its job… maybe a little too well. Learning how to relax is a journey, not a checklist.
If you have your own go-to methods, I’d love to hear them—leave a comment or DM me. Let’s figure this out together 💛
