Stop Anxiety for Your Holiday Gift to Yourself!

Anxiety.

It’s a word that’s being said a lot more recently – I find myself saying it at times. I get it - it’s the fear to think clearly. The can’t get out of the house feeling. It’s like your brain’s unwanted guest, showing up uninvited and going through the fridge of your thoughts – may be even literally!!! Whether it’s social anxiety whispering, “Don’t trip over your words at this party”, general panic over your long to-do list, or getting ready to go to the gym - anxiety loves to steal the spotlight. But here’s the good news: you can kick its ass.

First things first: breathe, but not the regular "I’m alive" kind. Do a box breathe - inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, hold for four. Boom! Instant brain reset. This technique is a game-changer because it tricks your overachieving nervous system into calming down. Need proof? Watch Dr. Judson Brewer’s TED Talk, “A Simple Way to Break a Bad Habit”. He explains how mindfulness interrupts anxiety’s grip and teaches your brain to chill out instead of spiraling. Trust me, it’s worth the watch.

Now, let’s tackle social anxiety—because small talk shouldn’t feel like climbing Everest. Here’s a secret: no one’s paying as much attention to you as you think. Seriously, they’re too busy worrying about their own quirks. To flip the script, focus on being curious about others. Channel your inner Oprah: ask people about their favorite restaurants or weirdest childhood memories. It shifts the pressure off you and makes conversations flow naturally. Bonus points if you have a go-to “fun fact” about yourself to share - it’s your anxiety safety net. (“Did you know flamingos can only eat with their heads upside down?”) Hahaha – I didn’t either 😊

Finally, let’s reframe anxiety itself. Think of it like your overprotective friend who freaks out about a tiny crack in your windshield - it means well but overreacts. When it shows up, give it a name (call it "Worried Willie" or "F@#$d Frannie") and say, “Thanks for looking out for me, but I’ve got this”. Humor is a powerful diffuser. Pair this with action: move your body! Dance in your bedroom, go for a walk, or do 10 jumping jacks. Physical movement burns off excess energy and shifts your focus. Anxiety doesn’t stand a chance when you’re too busy being your vibrant, unstoppable self.

When you feel the urge, get curious as to why, then experience the joy of letting go and repeat…