Whether you have trouble sleeping, need to be more mindful, or are simply looking for ways to manage your stress, you’re about to find the best apps to improve your mental health and emotional wellbeing.

So keep reading for the best 12 apps for stress and anxiety.

12 Apps for Stress and Anxiety

1. HEADSPACE

With more than 10 million downloads, Headspace is one of the most popular anxiety-relieving apps on this list.

This mighty app offers guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and breathing techniques to help you reduce stress and anxiety.

You’ll be encouraged to fall asleep with sleepcasts, sleep sounds, and soothing music.

If you’re a student, Headspace offers a massive 85% discount, and if you want to join their family plan, you can have up to six people in your group.

Do you have these meditation tools?

👉 14 Must-Have Meditation Products for Your Home

2. CALM

Calm is marketed as the #1 mental health app designed to help you manage stress, sleep better, and live a happier, healthier life.

If you’re struggling to sleep, Calm offers more than 250 Sleep Stories, soundscapes, and guided sleep meditations.

There are guided meditations, and you can also select from several beautiful, nature scenes to go along with your practice.

Plus, if you need immediate relief, there are quick 60-second breathing exercises to help your mind and body return to a state of relaxation.

3. TALKSPACE

When you need someone to talk to about your anxiety, Talkspace makes the process incredibly easy.

You can start messaging your therapist immediately via text, video, or voice anywhere, anytime.

If you don’t connect with your therapist, you can seamlessly switch at no cost to you.

What’s unique about other online therapy services is that Talkspace offers multiple different types of therapy like CBT, DBT, and humanistic therapy.

Plus, you can choose individual therapy, couples therapy, teen therapy, and psychiatry.

Listen to these meditations for childhood trauma:

👉 22 Powerful Inner Child Healing Meditations (Guided and Unguided)

4. STOP PANIC & ANXIETY SELF-HELP

There are multiple aspects to Stop Panic and Anxiety Self-Help, all of which center on the importance of mindfulness.

There are CBT articles and follow-along audios, and the app also includes a cognitive diary section, where you can track your progress.

You can also read the articles and listen to the audios online at Excel at Life.

The audios work on Wi-Fi, but everything else can work without it.

The best part is that everything on the app is free!

5. WHAT’S UP?

What’s Up? is another great CBT app focusing on mindfulness. It’s straightforward but super effective.

There’s a lot of very useful information within this app. There are 4 main sections: Help Right Now, Coping Strategies, Information, and Personal. Each category is broken down into even smaller categories.

There’s a section on uplifting quotes, affirmations, and grounding techniques.

There is even a forum, where you can talk to other sufferers.

Probably my favorite part about this app is that it also focuses on depression, self-esteem, and even anger, so you can really get the most out of the app.

Speak these anxiety affirmations:

👉 85 Calming Affirmations for Relieving Anxiety and Panic Attacks

6. ANXIETY SOLUTION STRESS RELIEF

Anxiety Solution Stress Relief is a complete anxiety toolkit with breathing tools, meditation practices, sleep stories, calming music, articles, and mood tracking.

With over 70 anxiety-relieving practices proven by science, you’ll be on your way to improving your mood and calming your mind.

You’ll be able to create a personalized wellness routine and develop daily habits that will help spark positivity into your day.

This anxiety app is best at tracking and visualizing your mood and symptoms over time to monitor your progress, understand your triggers, and find out what works best for you.

7. BREETHE

Another app prioritizing better sleep and reduced stress is Breethe.

This highly-rated app features over 1700 guided meditations, sleep stories, and breathing exercises to help you reduce anxiety and improve your mental wellbeing.

What makes Breethe unique is you’ll get to hear inspirational talks (and much more!) from leading experts in their field.

Plus, if you love nature sounds while you sleep, there are plenty to choose from!

More sleep meditations:

👉 10 Best Meditations for Sleep (That’ll Knock You Out Instantly)

8. SANVELLO

Sanvello has more than one million users, and it focuses on the reduction of anxiety and depression symptoms.

Because this app focuses on self-care, you’ll be able to handpick the right healing journey for you.

You’ll also get to keep track of the specifics of how your day was.

There are entries for your thoughts, moods, and your goals. You can even set reminders on your phone to keep you on top of it.

A really cool thing about Sanvello is that you can join chat groups and communities to keep you motivated, as well as 1:1 coaching to keep your mental health goals on track.

9. INSIGHT TIMER

One of the most highly rated apps on this list, Insight Timer helps everyday wellbeing for anxiety, stress, and sleep.

This app offers a wide variety of guided meditations, music tracks, and talks from mindfulness experts to help users reduce stress and anxiety.

You’ll be able to create a wellbeing routine that works for you with the help of yoga, journaling, breathwork, affirmations, and more.

The best part? It’s free!

Use crystals to height your session:

👉 17 Best Crystals for Meditation (to Boost Your Session)

10. PANIC ATTACK HELP

Backed by science, Panic Attack Help features tools to help you in your current state of mind.

You can track your mood and compare it to before and after you completed the various mindfulness and meditation exercises.

I love that when you record all this information, you can look back and see what helped you and what you can do less of.

11. SMILING MIND

Smiling Mind offers guided meditations and mindfulness exercises for adults and children to help reduce stress and improve mental health.

Based in Australia, it’s a 100% not-for-profit app, so you know their goal is to 100% help someone like you.

Trusted by over 7.8 million people, you’ll start to see a massive difference in your stress and anxiety in just 10 minutes a day.

12. BLOCK! HEXA PUZZLE

This app might not to much to help manage your anxiety, but it could definitely take away some of the initial symptoms.

It’s a great way to distract yourself in times of high anxiety.

Block! Hexa is a puzzle game where you try to fit various hexagon pieces into a randomly shaped hexagram.

There are hundreds and hundreds of levels, and they only get harder as you go on.

I put this app on whenever my anxiety is getting too intense. It saved me from the brink of a panic attack time and time again. 

Best Apps for Stress and Anxiety:

Most apps for relieving stress and anxiety offer very similar features.

Finding one that fits you best usually comes down to the interface, how the meditations are presented, and the variety they provide.

💾 Bookmark this page for whenever you need recommendations for new anxiety and mindfulness apps to add to your phone.

More anxiety posts:

• 28 Incredibly Relatable Songs About Social Anxiety
• Spiritual Help for Anxiety: Overcome Anxiety with New Age Spirituality
• 17 Healing Crystals for Calming Anxiety and Panic Attacks
• 5 Ways to Cope with Anger Caused by Your Anxiety

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Best Apps for Stress and Anxiety

The post 12 Best Apps for Relieving Stress and Anxiety (and Improving Mindfulness) appeared first on Okay Now Breathe.

There are so many tips on how to distract yourself from anxiety on the internet.

The problem is that they’re pretty much all the same.

Do yoga. Eat healthily. Breathing exercises. Lather, rinse, repeat.

While these are great ideas, trying to fight anxiety isn’t black and white. 

What works one time may not work the next.

That’s why anxiety is such a complicated mental illness to beat.

Throughout my entire life, I’ve had anxiety.

It’s been difficult, and it’s been exhausting.

But throughout my life, I’ve also learned that these 10 weird coping mechanisms help calm my anxiety almost instantly.

Top Activities to Distract Yourself from Anxiety

1. CRYSTALS

When used with intention, crystals have countless healing properties that can help anxiety.

Like everything on earth, crystals carry a unique vibration that can be wonderfully calming, grounding, and healing.

Best crystals for anxiety:

⭐ Amazonite

⭐ Rose Quartz

⭐ Black Tourmaline

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More crystals for anxiety:

• 10 Powerful Healing Crystals for Anxiety Attacks

2. BALANCE LOWER CHAKRAS

Charkas are essentially a network of seven major energy centers arranged vertically along the core of your body.

(There are multiple different systems of Chakras, but I personally use the Western Seven Chakra System.)

You can learn more about chakras in this enlightening book.

While having all chakras balanced and aligned is beneficial for anxiety, I find the lower chakras to be vital.

The three lowest chakras are the root, the sacral, and the solar plexus chakras.

These chakras are considered your physical chakras, and they are responsible for your self-image and physical and emotional identity.

Signs of an Imbalanced Root Chakra:

• Lack of Motivation
• Feeling Disconnected
• Anger and Short Temper
• Impatience
• Feeling Stuck
• Greediness

How to Balance Root Chakra:

⭐ Listen to Meditation Music: 256 Hz

⭐ Speak Positive Affirmations: I am…

⭐ Diffuse Essential Oils: Frankincense, Patchouli, Cedarwood, Myrrh

⭐ Use Crystals: Smoky Quartz, Hematite, Red Jasper, 

⭐ Wear Colors: Red

⭐ Eat Foods: Red Potatoes, Strawberries, Cherries, Tomatoes

Signs of an Imbalanced Sacral Chakra:

• Depression
• Low Self-Esteem and Insecurity
• Fear
• Jealousy
• Insecurity
• Detachment

How to Balance Sacral Chakra:

⭐ Listen to Meditation Music: 288 Hz

⭐ Speak Positive Affirmations: I feel…

⭐ Diffuse Essential Oils: Orange, Neroli, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang

⭐ Use Crystals: Orange Carnelian, Orange Calcite, Citrine

⭐ Wear Colors: Orange

⭐ Eat Foods: Oranges, Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, Coconuts

Signs of an Imbalanced Solar Plexus Chakra:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Low Self-Esteem
• Codependency
• Lack of Self-Control
• Inability to Set or Maintain Boundaries
• Addiction

How to Balance Solar Plexus Chakra:

⭐ Listen to Meditation Music: 320 Hz

⭐ Speak Positive Affirmations: I do…

⭐ Diffuse Essential Oils: Juniper, Geranium, Lemon, Ginger, 

⭐ Use Crystals: Yellow Jasper, Lemon Quartz, Tiger’s Eye

⭐ Wear Colors: Yellow

⭐ Eat Foods: Lemons, Corn, Yellow Squash, Pineapple, Bananas

If you struggle with social anxiety, unblocking the throat chakra is vital.

3. DO A PUZZLE

Doing puzzles takes a lot of concentration, and you go through a lot of trial and error in the process.

But the repetitive nature is very soothing for an anxiety-filled mind.

The most rewarding way to do a puzzle is to not look at the picture on the box.

I also find that doing a puzzle this way is the best way to distract anxiety.

If you’re just starting out at the whole puzzle thing, you can get a bunch of different puzzles at the Dollar Tree.

They’re very inexpensive (only $1!), so you can’t go wrong.

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4. MAKE A FRIENDSHIP BRACELET

Hand-eye coordination is a great way to take you out of your head.

This is why I love making friendship bracelets. I’ve been making them since I was probably 12 years old.

The process of repeatedly tying knots is so relaxing.

The best part is yes, you can make them and give them to your friends.

Any time you see them wearing it, you’ll recognize those same feelings you had when you were making them.

Pro-Tip: I’ve used this friendship bracelet making kit for at least a decade now.

Whenever I run out of string, I buy some Tinsky floss, because they’re inexpensive, high quality, and offer so many unique colors.

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5. DO YOUR MAKEUP

I used to never wear makeup. Maybe a little mascara here and there.

But now doing my makeup is so relaxing.

I’ll spend 30 minutes doing various eyeshadow looks and pairing it with a matching lipstick.

My favorite brands are e.l.f. Cosmetics, Pacifica, and ColourPop.

They’re all cruelty-free with lots of vegan options. 

If you don’t wear makeup, try doing your hair a different way or create unique outfits from your closest.

Get creative, and have fun!

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6. PLAY AN INSTRUMENT

You don’t have to be Mozart in order to help distract yourself from anxiety.

Playing any instrument helps calms our nerves, because our hands and fingers play a repetition of notes.

I’ve played the keyboard for years, and I write my own songs.

I bought a ukulele a couple of years ago. They’re such happy instruments.

My boyfriend is a music producer, so I even make my own music that way.

You can find some of our music on our free meditation YouTube channel, Peaceful Awakening Meditations.

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7. PICTURES OF BABY ANIMALS

There’s one thing I think we can all agree on.

Baby animals are so freaking cute.

Look at pictures. Look at videos.

See how many different ways you can spell the word awwww.

Just try your hardest to not cuddle the screen.

8. BLAST DISNEY MUSIC

Disney songs have saved my butt so many times when I’m on the verge of a panic attack.

Out of any music in the world, it helps my anxiety almost instantly.

You can find them quickly on Pandora or YouTube.

I even have all the Disney’s Greatest Hits CDs.

I’ve probably listened to them the most out of any other CD I own – besides Avril Lavigne’s Let Go.

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More music recommendations:

• The Ultimate Anti-Anxiety Playlist
• Top 10 Musicians Who Sing About Mental Health

9. SIT IN THE GRASS

Let nature soak up your stress.

Sit in the grass under a tree in the shade.

Feel how the grass blades feel on your fingertips.

Notice how the air feels on your skin.

Just be one with Mother Earth.

She is so beautiful, and she can make you feel whole again.

10. CLEAN YOUR BATHROOM

I used to be a very messy person.

But now I feel much better in a more organized and clean environment.

I find a lot of joy when I’m cleaning my bathroom. 

I’ll blast some music, dance a little, and watch my anxiety dissipate.

I usually try to take at least one day out of the month and do a complete top to bottom clean of my bathroom.

Try using a more natural cleaner that is free from most toxins.

You’re less likely to get a headache from using it.

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Related anxiety post:

• 4 Reasons Why Cleaning My House Helps Ease My Anxiety

BONUS: ACCEPT IT

As weird and as hard as it sounds, don’t push your anxiety away. 

Try your best to embrace it in the moment.

Tell yourself, yes I have anxiety, but I’ve made it through it every time before this.

And I will overcome it again.

More anxiety affirmations:

• 85 Calming Affirmations for Relieving Anxiety and Panic Attacks
• 50 Positive Affirmations for Overcoming Social Anxiety

Try Therapy Instead

Instead of trying to push your anxiety away, why not try therapy instead?

Did you know that there is affordable online therapy?

Online Therapy is a complete online therapy toolbox.

Your therapy toolbox includes:

• Live video, voice, or text chat session with your therapist
• 8 easy-to-follow sections, including 25 worksheets
• Activity plan, journal, and tests
• Yoga and meditation videos

What I love about Online Therapy is that there are several life-changing options and therapists available, and you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home.

This means you never need to worry before getting help.

Get 20% off your first month with my exclusive link.

TRY ONLINE THERAPY NOW

Distract Yourself from Anxiety

While it’s so important to get to the root of your anxiety, it’s vital to find ways to distract yourself from anxiety when times are tough.

Distracting yourself might be the only way to stop an oncoming panic attack.

What ways do you distract yourself from anxiety? Tell us in the comments below!

More anxiety posts:

• 6 Apps for Relieving Anxiety and Improving Mindfulness
• 5 Simple Ideas to Help You Practice Being More Mindful
• 4 Side Effects of Anxiety We Like to Keep Secret
  

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10 Activities to Distract Yourself from Anxiety

The post 10 Transformative Ways to Distract Yourself From Anxiety appeared first on Okay Now Breathe.

When I’m struggling with depression, Netflix can be very intoxicating.

It can be a comforting form of escapism from the negative thoughts circling in your mind.

Netflix, however, can also make your depression much worse.

Being Depressed with Netflix

I was in a really dark place around the time I left my full-time retail job back in 2016.

Because of this, every day I used Netflix to its full advantage.

I was home alone a good portion of the day, and it was the perfect escape.

Or so I thought.

My slip deeper into depression

But I soon felt myself slipping into an even deeper depression than the one that I quit my job over.

I became more lethargic than ever, and I felt my mental health deteriorate more and more with each passing episode.

I was barely working on my blog (which happens to be my job), and I lost any ounce of motivation I had.

About a year after this, I woke up one day and realized that Netflix was making my depression worse.

Here are 5 reasons why your depression may be feeding off Netflix:

But first, have you downloaded your free depression-fighting checklist yet? ↓

5 Reasons Netflix Makes You More Depressed

1. WE BECOME LONELY

I don’t know about you, but I prefer to binge-watch something by myself.

With the lights off and the door closed.

Maybe even locked.

The worst part is that sometimes I don’t even want my dog next to me – can you even imagine?

Depression feeds off loneliness, and this is when the negative voices come out to play.

We’re worthless, right?

We’ll never amount to anything, and no one could ever love someone like us.

Humans are social

The truth is humans are social creatures, and it’s vital to our mental health to have some human interaction throughout our day.

And people remember you are not a burden or annoying.

You are not worthless.

People love and care about you every day.

More on loneliness:

• 13 Super Reliable Ways to Cope with Severe Loneliness

2. IT THREATEN RELATIONSHIPS

Because we choose to be alone while partaking in our Netflix festivities, all of our relationships will be tested.

I’d rather watch Netflix alone than be bothered with, “Do you wanna watch another episode?”

I’d rather lay in bed instead of trying to socialize with my friends.

I know I’m going to be wishing I was home in my bed anyway, so why go out at all?

(Social anxiety is always cramping my style anyways, amirite?!)

You might not like it at first, but try watching some Netflix with someone you’re close to.

Soon, it’ll become normal and a bonding experience.

Recommended TV shows and movies:

📺 The 100

📺 The Office

📺 Hart of Dixie

📺 Jurassic Park

📺 A Walk to Remember

For more movies I recommend on Hulu and Amazon Prime, check out these posts:

• 12 Uplifting Movies for Depression
• Why Horror Movies Help Fight My Depression
• 5 Reasons Why Disney Movies Help Fight My Depression

3. NO EXERCISE

When we’re attached to Netflix, all we’re doing is either laying down or sitting.

There isn’t much room for movement. 

In reality, when I’m depressed I only get up to take my dog outside.

And we all know this by now, but exercise often equates to better health.

Exercise isn’t just good for our physical health either.

It’s also vital for our mental health.

So next time you’re watching some Netflix, why don’t you do some squats or practice some yoga during an episode?

One of my absolute favorite places to learn more about yoga poses, flows, and sequences is Yoga Download.

There are a countless selection of free yoga classes, from beginner all the way to advanced as well as different lengths.

The best part is you can do yoga in the comfort of your own home.

It might be hard to find the motivation to move your body, but your body will thank you once you do.

Nobody likes feeling like the Tin Man from The Wizard of Oz.

Oil can, anybody?

More posts on working out:

• 4 Healthy Ways to Workout When You Have Depression
• 10 Best At-Home Workout Videos for Beginners
• Why Running Gives Me More Anxiety (and Alternative Exercises)

4. HIGHLY ADDICTIVE

Netflix automatically goes to the next episode without us even having to lift a finger.

The episodes will just keep on going, and before we know it, we’re already halfway through a 20 episode season.

Because I work from home, my problem became excessively problematic.

And Netflix pretty much became a morning, afternoon, and nightly routine.

It was pretty much an everyday occurrence for me.

But I now force myself to stop watching after the second episode.

Stopping after the second episode has become a habit now, and I hardly think about it anymore.

5. AVOID PROBLEMS

Netflix takes us away from our responsibilities.

We forget to eat, but somehow dirty dishes still piled around my bed.

We don’t want to get up to pee, and my breath turned into a monster’s lair because I had no excuse to brush my teeth.

When we’re depressed we just want to stay in our pajamas all day with our eyes are glued to the screen.

But avoiding problems is not going to make them go away.

They will only build up and continue to make our lives miserable.

In between your breaks between your binge-watching, make sure you don’t neglect yourself and your responsibilities.

Depression and productivity:

• 6 Helpful Ways to be Productive When You Have Depression

A MUST-HAVE!

SEND MY WAY, PLEASE!

Depression affected by Netflix

Addictions.com says Netflix can be like a drug addiction.

But just like depression, I will not let Netflix defeat me no matter how hard it tries.

This is my blog. I can be as over-dramatic as I wanna be.

I learned that I have to set a limit on how much I can watch in one day.

Or, you know, at least in one sitting.

Do you believe Netflix can be an addiction? Is it harmless or harmful?

More on depression:

• 17 Songs That Help Me When I’m Feeling Depressed and Suicidal
• My 10 Favorite TV Shows I Watch When I’m Having a Bad Day
• 4 Ways The Sims Helps My Mental Health Tremendously
• 13 Things Never to Say to Someone Who’s Depressed

Did you know there’s online therapy?

Online Therapy is a complete online therapy toolbox.

Your therapy toolbox includes:

• • Live video, voice, or text chat session with your therapist
  • 8 easy-to-follow sections, including 25 worksheets
  • Activity plan, journal, and tests
  • Yoga and meditation videos

What I love about Online Therapy is that there are several life-changing options and therapists available, and you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home.

This means you never need to worry before getting help.

Get 20% off your first month with my exclusive link.

TRY ONLINE THERAPY NOW

Does Netflix Make Depression Worse?

The post Netflix and Depression: 5 Reasons Netflix Makes You More Depressed appeared first on Okay Now Breathe.

If you enjoy giving thoughtful Christmas gifts, this guide is perfect for anxiety sufferers.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to give a thoughtful gift to someone, especially someone who lives with anxiety.

You don’t want to overstep any boundaries, and you definitely don’t want to seem rude.

That’s why I recommend these 10 presents in this Ultimate Gift Guide for Anxiety.

I share all my favorite things that you can gift your loved one this holiday season. 

You can even buy any of these for yourself!

1. ANXIETY JOURNAL GUIDE

Journaling is a great way to combat feelings of anxiety.

My Anxiety Journal: Daily Prompts for Coping with Anxious Thoughts and Feelings is designed to help you overcome anxiety, practice self-care, and start living a more grateful, fulfilling life.

Achieve a life free from anxiety with eye-opening journal prompts that will help your loved one (or you!):

⭐ cope with and manage your anxiety

⭐ incorporate self-care into your daily routine

⭐ learn to love yourself unconditionally and

⭐ become free from the shackles of anxiety

The Anxiety Journal includes daily journal prompts from a variety of topics, such as During Anxiety, Recovery, Gratitude, and Self-Care.

Your loved one will also get a mood tracker on each prompt.

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2. YOU ARE A BADASS

One of the most eye-opening self-help books I’ve ever read is You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life.

I highly recommend gifting it to your loved one who needs to look past their limiting beliefs in order to feel powerful.

It’s funny, encouraging, and life-changing.

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3. GODDESS PROVISIONS

I’ve been subscribed to Goddess Provisions for a year now, and I think it’s a fantastic gift for your friend or family member who’s anxious.

What’s Inside:

⭐ Crystals, Aromatherapy, Beauty, Snacks, Tools for Spiritual Growth

⭐ 5 to 7 full-size products in each box

⭐ 100% vegan and cruelty-free

⭐ Typical box value $80-$100

⭐ Free U.S. shipping!

The price for the box starts at $27.75 / month.

I’ve loved every box I’ve received!

SUBSCRIBE NOW

More subscription boxes to gift:

• 7 Spiritual Wellness Subscription Boxes (That are Vegan!)

4. A WEIGHTED BLANKET

If you know someone has really intense anxiety, a weighted blanket would be a great gift!

Weighted blankets help relax the nervous system by simulating the feeling of being held or hugged. 

This increases serotonin and melatonin levels and decreases cortisol levels, which improves mood and promotes restful sleep at the same time.

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5. A COLORING BOOK

Coloring books are all the craze when it comes to trying to remedy some symptoms of anxiety.

It’s easy to forget about your racing thoughts when you’re concentrating on coloring in the lines.

My aunt bought me this coloring book a couple years back.

It’s a fantastic present, because it encourages your loved one to forget about the problems going on in their head by focusing on trying to color in between the lines – which is no easy feat.

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6. SOCIAL ANXIETY TO SOCIAL SUCCESS

If your loved one suffers from social anxiety, I recommend gifting Social Anxiety to Social Success.

It’s perfect if they’re ready to gain control over their social anxiety.

It’s super easy to follow along to, and there’s even a workbook where they can track their progress.

BUY NOW

7. SLOW IT DOWN

Slow it Down is a class about slowing down and simplifying your life.

It teaches about letting the stresses of the world go. 

It’s a chance to start fresh, simplify, and declutter.

The goal is to let go of what no longer serves you, and it’s a excellent gift for anyone who needs to let go of stress.

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8. ESSENTIAL OILS

Gifting essential oils to your loved one with anxiety is a wonderful way to provide them with some holistic healing.

Aromatherapy has been used for thousands of years, and it provides countless benefits.

Essential Oils for Anxiety:

• Lavender
• Chamomile
• Lemongrass
• Patchouli
• Bergamot

I recommend Plant Therapy essential oils, because they’re high quality, vegan, and cruelty-free!

Gift a bunch in this 7 & 7 Essential Oil Set, which features 7 single oils and 7 synergies.

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*While using essential oils, be sure to use them in a well-ventilated room and keep harmful ones away from pets and kids.

More on essential oils:

• 10 Invigorating Essential Oil Recipes for Mental Health

9. PINK HIMALAYAN SALT LAMP

A Pink Himalayan Salt Lamp helps illuminate a room with a warm, pleasant, and relaxing amber glow.

They also provide some pretty remarkable benefits, such as boosting mood, help air quality, and can help you sleep.

It’s an incredible gift for anyone who needs more calmness and tranquility in their life!

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10. WORRY STONE

Worry stones are crystals that have a groove that fits the thumb.

The indents in the stone can be rubbed when you’re feeling stressed or anxious.

The repetition and gentle vibrations from the stones are an excellent way to find relaxation and anxiety relief.

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More on anxiety and crystals:

• 10 Powerful Healing Crystals for Anxiety Attacks

Christmas Gifts for Anxiety Sufferers

A gift can show how much you pay attention to your loved one’s likes and interests.

A gift can also show your empathy for what they’re struggling with.

The items featured on this list are really helpful, useful, and thoughtful.

Gift recap:

1. Anxiety Journal
2. You Are a Badass
3. Goddess Provisions Box
4. A Weighted Blanket
5. Coloring Book
6. Social Anxiety to Social Success
7. Slow it Down
8. Essential Oils
9. Pink Himalayan Salt Lamp
10. Worry Stones

More Christmas posts:

• Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Someone with Depression
• 30 Amazingly Cheesy Best Christmas Movies to Watch
• 10 Ways to Save Money on Christmas Gifts This Holiday Season

Did you know that there is affordable online therapy?

Online Therapy is a complete online therapy toolbox.

Your therapy toolbox includes:

• Live video, voice, or text chat session with your therapist
• 8 easy-to-follow sections, including 25 worksheets
• Activity plan, journal, and tests
• Yoga and meditation videos

What I love about Online Therapy is that there are several life-changing options and therapists available, and you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home.

This means you never need to worry before getting help.

Get 20% off your first month with my exclusive link.

TRY ONLINE THERAPY NOW

The post Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Someone with Anxiety appeared first on Okay Now Breathe.

I’ve never liked running. Because to me, running makes my anxiety worse.

And to be completely honest, running feels a lot like an anxiety attack.

Exercise and Mental Health

Everyone and their mother tells you that exercising is good for you. 

They tell you that it promotes a healthy lifestyle, and it will even help to alleviate problems associated with poor mental health.

But what happens when intense cardio is not good for your mind?

What if it actually causes you more harm than good?

Well friends, that is exactly what running does to me.

Overcoming Excercise-Induced Anxiety:

• 5 Things to Do When Exercise Makes Anxiety Worse

Running and Anxiety

HIGH RESTING HEART RATE

When I’m struggling with daily anxiety, I have a naturally high resting heart rate.

My heart rests at around 80 bpm, when studies say that a healthy heart rate for someone my age is around 70 bpm.

Because I have a high resting heart rate, I’ve always had a problem with intense forms of exercise.

Any type of intense exercise sends my heart and mind into overdrive.

Every beat feels like my chest is going to explode.

Mix that with severe anxiety, and any jolt of adrenaline automatically sends me into fight or flight.

Jogging is painful

Running has always made me feel the most uncomfortable out of any form of exercise.

It’s about the most intense form your body can take.

For me, running causes way more stress than it alleviates.

And it’s just not worth it to me when there are so many other types of exercise.

We’ll touch more on that later…

IT FEELS LIKE A PANIC ATTACK

To me, running feels exactly like a panic attack. 

Think about it.

The body goes through the same changes as the ones seen with anxiety. 

Increased heart rate? Labored breathing? Dizziness? Check, check, and check. 

Running can easily make you feel so out of control of your own body.

My entire body stiffens up and throbs in an unbearable pain when I run.

My chest hurts so bad that I can hardly get a breath in.

I feel like my body is trying to hold me hostage.

The only way to feel any relief is to collapse on the ground and watch the world spin around me.

This has all the makings to a recipe of a panic attack written all over it.

Try these affirmations for anxiety:

• 85 Calming Affirmations for Relieving Anxiety and Panic Attacks

IT MIGHT CAUSE A PANIC ATTACK

Because our brains make unconscious connections all the time, our memories are tied to our physical symptoms.

Feeling symptoms that are similar to a panic attack may actually induce a panic attack itself.

When you’re prone to panic attacks, anything that feels remotely like a panic attack will automatically make your body respond in the same way. 

Heart rate increases during exercise, as well as during anxiety.

Labored breathing increases during exercise, as with anxiety.

These feelings often go hand-in-hand.

So even the thought of running causes my body to produce stress hormones.

Just the thought of having to run increases my anxiety.

And willingly inducing an anxiety attack just doesn’t sit well with me. 

Knowing that running gives me such intense feelings is enough to have me run the other way. (See what I did there?)

Working through a panic attack:

• 4 Ways to Safely Recover from a Panic Attack

ALTERNATIVES

To me, pushing myself to run is not an option.

There are so many other alternatives that work out the body just as much.

And frankly, running has never, ever even been fun for me. With or without the panic attacks.

Here are some exercise alternatives:

🚴‍♀️ Riding a bike

For some reason, riding a bike is incredibly relaxing for me – even though you work more muscles than when you run.

Riding a bike is wonderful exercise and requires both muscular and cardiovascular endurance.

It works out almost every muscle in your body, and it makes your heart stronger.

I love soaking up the breeze and surrounding myself with nature.

I would ride for hours if my body allowed me.

🌲 Hiking

Most areas have some type of nature or forest preserve you can spend an hour or two hiking.

This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the world around you.

Explore different terrains and different sceneries. 

Don’t be afraid of marshes, forests, or mountains.

💃 Dancing

Dancing is so much more freeing than running.

There are so many different styles you can do, and they’re all so fun to just let loose to.

Yoga Booty Ballet videos are some of my absolute favorite dances to do, because they’re quirky and they fly by.

🧘 Vinyasa yoga

Vinyasa yoga is a type of yoga that focuses on the flow between movements and breathing.

It’s an incredible way to get your heart pumping in the most calming way possible.

One of my absolute favorite places to learn more about yoga poses, flows, and sequences is Yoga Download.

There are a countless selection of free yoga classes, from beginner all the way to advanced as well as different lengths.

The best part is you can do yoga in the comfort of your own home.

Overcoming Anxiety From Running

If you feel defeated or overwhelmed when people say running is the best exercise you can have, it’s okay to disagree with them.

There are plenty of other options to give you that good-for-your-heart kind of exercise.

And let’s be honest…it’s okay to just literally despise running.

Do you struggle with exercise-induced anxiety? How do you manage?

Therapy, mindfulness, and coping strategies can play a crucial role in recovery.

More posts on exercise:

• How to Work Out When Exercising Feels Like a Panic Attack
• 4 Healthy Ways to Workout When You Have Depression
• 10 Best At-Home Workout Videos for Beginners

Did you know that there is affordable online therapy?

Online Therapy is a complete online therapy toolbox.

Your therapy toolbox includes:

• Live video, voice, or text chat session with your therapist
• 8 easy-to-follow sections, including 25 worksheets
• Activity plan, journal, and tests
• Yoga and meditation videos

What I love about Online Therapy is that there are several life-changing options and therapists available, and you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home.

This means you never need to worry before getting help.

Get 20% off your first month with my exclusive link.

TRY ONLINE THERAPY NOW

When Running Makes Anxiety Worse

The post Why Running Gives Me More Anxiety (and Alternative Exercises) appeared first on Okay Now Breathe.

Wanna know a secret? Going to therapy does not make you weak.

In fact, therapy makes you strong.

Seeking professional help means you care about improving yourself and your wellbeing.

Every single person can benefit from therapy.

Because therapy isn’t just for people who are mentally ill.

Everyone goes through things that they have a difficult time coping with.

On top of that, people should always find new ways to grow and improve themselves.

Keep reading for 5 blaring signs you need to seek therapy.

1. CONSTANT NEGATIVENESS

Uncontrollable sadness, anger, or hopelessness may be signs of a mental health issue.

Some causes of concern:

• Loss or increase in appetite
• Sleeping more or less than usual
• Stopped enjoying things you used to
• Isolation

If you’re constantly experiencing the same negative patterns, it might be time to see a counselor.

Posts to help beat negativity:

• 10 Common Things That Make Depression Worse
• 5 Deeply Spiritual Ways to Help Heal Depression

2. SOMETHING TRAUMATIC HAPPENED

While experiencing trauma certainly isn’t the only valid reason to seek therapy, it is a very compelling reason to do so.

I first went to therapy back in 2015, because I was having a hard time coping with the sexual abuse I endured in my childhood.

When I finally came to terms with it, it began affecting my life entirely.

I had constant anxiety, and I was becoming severely depressed.

I was self-harming, and it was putting a big strain on my relationships.

It was excruciatingly painful, but I am in a much better place now.

Other reasons to seek help

The death of a loved one, a breakup, or job loss are all valid reasons to see a therapist.

Grief comes in many different varieties, and it can be a very long and painful process.

More reasons:

• History of abuse or neglect
• Victim of a crime
• Chronic illness

If you’ve experienced a big life event, try and seek therapy to help you better cope.

3. YOU’RE ABUSING TO COPE

When you turn to a substance or behavior to help you feel better, you need to find better ways to cope.

Some harmful coping strategies are drugs, alcohol, sex, food, and self-harm.

I battled with a self-harm addiction for years, and it consumed my life.

At the time, it felt like my only way to cope.

However, when I reached a stable part in my recovery, I realized how many healthier coping mechanisms were actually out there.

Now I enjoy things like reading in nature, playing video games, and going for mountain hikes.

Mindfulness was a big savior in my recovery.

More on my addiction:

• How I Went From Self-Harm Addict to Self-Harm Survivor

4. YOU CAN’T STOP THE BEHAVIOR

It’s easy to believe that you can stop the harmful behaviors on your own.

I’m betting you’ve even thought that way yourself.

But sometimes that’s simply not the case.

Factors of recovery

So many factors go into recovery, and getting an outside opinion and advice can be incredibly beneficial.

I know I thought I could manage my depression and anxiety on my own, but I actually needed a lot of support.

I needed to look outside myself and seek help.

Ask yourself how your life is going. Be completely honest with yourself.

If you feel things are starting to get unmanageable, you owe it to yourself to reach out.

5. OTHERS EXPRESS CONCERN

Oftentimes, we don’t realize how big our problems actually are.

We don’t realize how much our experiences, choices, and hardships affect the people we care about.

Sometimes, family and friends can notice patterns that are hard to see from the inside.

Once my fiance told me how much he could see I was struggling and how much he wanted me to seek therapy, I eventually decided to go.

But I resisted therapy for a long time, and I made excuse after excuse.

Common excuses for not going to therapy:

• It costs too much.
• I’m too scared.
• I don’t have the time.
• What if it doesn’t even help me and is a waste of time?

Sometimes you might have to put your pride aside and realize that therapy is awesome, beneficial, and life-changing!

Did you know that there is affordable online therapy?

Did you know that Online Therapy is a complete online therapy toolbox?

Your therapy toolbox includes:

• Live video, voice, or text chat session with your therapist
• 8 easy-to-follow sections, including 25 worksheets
• Activity plan, journal, and tests
• Yoga and meditation videos

What I love about Online Therapy is that there are several life-changing options and therapists available, and you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home.

This means you never need to worry before getting help.

Get 20% off your first month with my exclusive link.

TRY ONLINE THERAPY NOW

Other helpful therapy tips:

It’s so important to note that finding a therapist is a lot like dating.

You might not click with the first therapist you meet.

Or the second. Or even the third.

If you’ve had a negative experience with therapy before, try again!

When you find a therapist you connect with, it makes the experience that much more enjoyable and beneficial.

This Good Therapy article offers helpful answers to any of your therapy concerns.

My Therapy Companion

When you’ve decided to attend therapy, you’re going to want to get the most benefits out of your experience.

That’s why I recommend having something like My Therapy Companion, which is a workbook designed to make your therapy more beneficial.

Are you ready to seek professional help?

Should I Go and Attend Therapy?

The post 5 Blaring Signs You Need to Seek Therapy appeared first on Okay Now Breathe.

Living with social anxiety disorder can feel like living a life covered up by chains.

I wish I could wake up one day and breathe easy.

Breathe the fresh air in without my chest feeling tight. Breathe in the calm.

But it seems nearly impossible, because I have social anxiety.

And my job literally relies on me talking to thousands of strangers online every day.

And although blogging has helped parts of my social anxiety, I still find it difficult to live a “normal” life.

It gets annoying. It gets difficult. I’m always on edge, and I often feel bad about myself.

Here are 8 difficult truths of living with social anxiety disorder.

8 Symptoms of Living with Social Anxiety Disorder

Listen to my struggle with social anxiety on my podcast!

1. I KNOW I’M IRRATIONAL

Most of the time, I know I’m being irrational.

But a big part of me can’t grasp the concept.

Like nearly every human ever, I can’t just snap out of it when someone tells me to calm down.

My heart is beating so hard against my chest, and my vision is hazy. And I don’t feel okay.

An excellent way to help someone like me is to help us let go of our anxious thoughts.

Sometimes it helps when someone asks me a math question, tells a favorite memory, or simply asks what they can do to help.

How to help someone with social anxiety:

• 4 Loving Ways to Help Your Friend with Social Anxiety

2. I’M ALWAYS ON HIGH ALERT

My senses are almost always on overdrive. I notice every detail at an intense rate.

A tap of a pen may feel like a bomb going off directly in my eardrums.

Being in a crowded place may feel like every person there is trying to suffocate me all at once.

If you’re having a conversation with me, I’ll most likely notice that your stomach is breathing in and out and that your hands are shaking just a little bit.

Then I’ll become extra conscious of my movements.

I’ll also take note that I most likely 99% have to pee, but I’m too scared to ask where the bathroom is.

3. I’M TERRIBLY SELF-CONSCIOUS

I became pretty comfortable in my own skin by the time I entered college.

I accepted my cellulite, and I accepted the acne scars on my nose, jaw, and cheeks.

But as soon as I’m put in a situation I’m uncomfortable with, all of that kind of just vanishes.

Do I have something in my teeth? Can they see that I’m excessively sweating under my armpits? Should I stop laughing because I’m being annoying?

Every detail of mine is magnetized by a thousand.

Listen to these social anxiety affirmations ↓

4. I CAN SHUT DOWN UNANNOUNCED

Whenever I do activities out of my comfort zone, I easily become proud of myself.

I’m out and about right now! I’m dealing with a group of people I barely know! I’m out at night! 

Then all of a sudden, my legs start to get numb, and I start to get really hot.

My face flushes, and it sends me into a spiral of self-hatred.

Something in my brain switched at the snap of a finger.

I was doing so well. I don’t know what happened.

I start to feel suffocated by my own body.

My eyes can’t focus on what’s in front of me. I need to find a way out.

Social Anxiety eBook and Workbook

Social Anxiety to Social Success is a fantastic eBook, if you’re ready to gain control over your social anxiety.

I love that it’s super easy to follow along to, and there’s even a workbook so you can track your progress!

BUY SOCIAL ANXIETY EBOOK

5. I NEED A SAFE HAVEN

Whether it be my bedroom, your bedroom, or any other quiet room, I need some place where I can escape by myself.

Any place where my nerves can calm themselves.

If I don’t have an escape route, I’ll feel more and more anxious to the point of barely functioning.

If you find me going to use the restroom in public, it’s either a.) I really need to pee, or b.) this is the only place where I can get a breather.

Most likely both.

6. ANY CHANGE IS A BIG CHANGE

Any change is a horrible threat to my safety.

If things change and don’t go the way I planned in my head, I don’t know how to react.

Simple things like going to the gas station gives me an anxiety build up.

What if the pump doesn’t accept my credit card? What if a stranger approaches me and asks for money?

(That did happen once, right after I thought about it happening 🙃).

Going to a social gathering by myself is out of the question. Can you please come with me?

7. I GET TIRED EASILY

Because I’m on constant overdrive, social anxiety really takes a lot out of me.

I spend pretty much all day out of my comfort zone.

I constantly stress about how I’ll react if I’m put in a situation beyond my control.

When I worked in retail, I worried every day if I was going to get yelled at by a customer or my manager. 

Nowadays, I can barely even leave my house. I don’t even know the last time I went out by myself.

My mind is never at ease.

Most days, I struggle getting to sleep because of social anxiety.

Have trouble sleeping?

• 8 Bedtime Essentials for a Better Nights Sleep

8. I NEED CONSTANT REASSURANCE

No, I don’t feel okay. And no, I don’t want you to keep asking me if I’m “okay.”

What I want, and more of what I need, is constant reassurance that I’m doing a good job. 

Say you’re proud of me. Say you’re not embarrassed to be seen with me.

And if I really can’t be in a situation any longer, recognize that it’s incredibly hard for me and for my safety we need to leave.

I know it can be frustrating, but please be understanding and supportive.

Living with Social Anxiety

According to WebMD, is one of the most common mental disorders.

Do you live with social anxiety disorder? Do you relate to any of my realities and symptoms of anxiety?

How do you cope?

Tell me in the comments below!

Related posts on social anxiety:

• 50 Positive Affirmations for Overcoming Social Anxiety
• 28 Incredibly Relatable Songs About Social Anxiety
• 17 Soothing Meditations for Overcoming Social Anxiety
• 4 Loving Ways to Help Your Friend with Social Anxiety
• 4 Life-Changing Ways Blogging Has Improved My Social Anxiety

More social anxiety recommendations:

Social Anxiety to Social Success is a fantastic eBook, if you’re ready to gain control over your social anxiety.

I love that it’s super easy to follow along to, and there’s even a workbook so you can track your progress!

BUY SOCIAL ANXIETY EBOOK

Did you know there’s online therapy?

Online Therapy is a complete online therapy toolbox?

Your therapy toolbox includes:

• • Live video, voice, or text chat session with your therapist
  • 8 easy-to-follow sections, including 25 worksheets
  • Activity plan, journal, and tests

• Yoga and meditation videos

What I love about Online Therapy is that there are several life-changing options and therapists available, and you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home.

This means you never need to worry before getting help.

Get 20% off your first month with my exclusive link.

TRY ONLINE THERAPY NOW

Are you living with Social Anxiety Disorder?

The post 8 Truths of Living with Social Anxiety Disorder appeared first on Okay Now Breathe.

Positive Affirmations for Social Anxiety

Struggling with social anxiety can make you feel like a prisoner in your own body.

You want to have social interactions. You want to go out and make friends.

But it feels nearly impossible.

You sweat. You overthink.

You’re constantly having limiting beliefs and thinking negative affirmations to yourself.

But, life doesn’t have to be this way.

Find out what positive affirmations are and how you can apply them to help you overcome your social anxiety.

But first, download your free social anxiety affirmations printable! ↓

WHAT ARE AFFIRMATIONS?

So what exactly are positive affirmations, and what do they have to do with social anxiety?

Well, they reveal the limiting beliefs you have about yourself.

You’ve spent so many years believing bad things about yourself and thinking that they were true.

You’ve thought you would never find good friendships, a healthy relationship, or be able to overcome your social anxiety.

The goal of positive affirmations is to work as dismantling these beliefs, because they simply are not true.

50 Inspiring Mantras for Social Anxiety

Feel like listening instead? Hear on my free YouTube channel, Peaceful Awakening Meditations!

1. It’s easy to meet new people.

2. I am calm in social situations.

3. Eye contact is comfortable for me.

4. I make conversations with others easily.

5. With each breath, I feel calmer, more relaxed, and more confident.

6. I welcome new social situations into my life comfortably.

7. I feel relaxed at parties.

8. People enjoy my company.

9. I am calm, cool, and collected.

10. I feel at peace in large crowds.

11. Being the center of attention is fun!

12. I have a lot of interesting and important things to say.

13. I am relaxed using public restrooms.

14. My mind is powerful and full of healing energy.

15. I have a lot to offer the world.

16. I look forward to meeting new people.

17. Going to restaurants is fun and enjoyable!

18. I feel confident eating in front of others.

19. Weddings are an opportunity to have fun.

20. I am self-assured sober.

21. I remain positive in social situations.

22. Small talk is practice for deeper conversations.

23. I look forward to going out on the weekends.

24. Loud environments are easy for me to navigate.

25. I am carefree.

26. Conversation is entertaining for me.

27. I am a courageous public speaker.

28. Public speaking is a fun way for me to express myself.

29. Meeting strangers is something I look forward to.

30. I enjoy people’s company.

31. Other people enjoy my company.

32. I am brave.

33. It’s okay if I stutter. It makes me human.

34. I flow with conversations with ease.

35. People care about what I have to say.

36. I brighten up other people’s day.

37. Being social is important to me.

38. Interacting with others keeps me connected to the world.

39. I enjoy laughing with others.

40. Concerts are a place for me to enjoy my favorite musicians.

41. Being in a crowd makes me feel a part of society.

42. I am stronger than my anxiety.

43. People are enjoyable to be around.

44. It’s fun meeting people from all over the world.

45. I am comfortable in my skin.

46. I smile at others effortlessly.

47. Being in a group lets my personality shine.

48. My personality is infectious.

49. I feel at peace being around strangers. 

50. I love social situations.

Social Anxiety eBook and Workbook

Social Anxiety to Social Success is a fantastic eBook, if you’re ready to gain control over your social anxiety.

I love that it’s super easy to follow along to, and there’s even a workbook so you can track your progress!

BUY SOCIAL ANXIETY EBOOK

HOW TO CORRECTLY USE AFFIRMATIONS

Now that you have read these affirmations, let’s see how you can correctly apply them.

1. Let go of negative affirmations

How many times a day do you not believe in your abilities, social skills, or even yourself? How many times a day do you catch yourself saying negative insults about yourself?

I’m sure you’ve caught yourself saying things like: I will never make friends, I don’t know how to act like a normal person, All people do is laugh at me.

These negative affirmations are destructive to your self-esteem, your social skills, and your ability to manage your social anxiety.

As soon as you catch yourself thinking negative thoughts, pause and stop yourself. Letting go of negative affirmations might be the most important step in learning to use affirmations correctly.

2. Replace with nothing

That’s right. Get used to saying nothing at all.

Pay attention to how you feel when you don’t react to any of your negative thoughts. Get comfortable with not giving them power.

This might be more difficult than you imagined, and that’s okay. You were conditioned to absorb negativity.

3. Incorporate positive affirmations

Now’s the time to start saying positive affirmations. You can say them to yourself internally or out loud. 

Positive affirmations are always in the present tense, include positive words, and are spoken as a fact and the truth.

The most powerful affirmations are the ones that turn your negative thoughts into positive ones. 

Using the examples above, start saying: I HAVE amazing friends, I AM incredibly smart with social skills, I AM funny and people laugh WITH me.

4. Repeat the process

Using affirmations correctly takes practice and dedication.

Let me say that again. It takes practice, practice, and more practice.

You won’t be able to say these 50 affirmations once and feel much different.

The first couple of times you practice them, you might even feel defeated because they didn’t really work at all.

But keep at it. Keep letting go of negative affirmations, getting comfortable with the silence, and then incorporating positive affirmations.

Social Anxiety Affirmations

If you’re not sure about affirmations, really take the time to practice them. Take the time to really believe in them and their power.

It’s best if you say these positive affirmations for social anxiety both morning and night for 21 days straight.

That’s when you’ll really start to see a difference in your anxiety!

Don’t forget that you can listen to these affirmations for free on Peaceful Awakening Meditations!

More posts on social anxiety:

• 28 Incredibly Relatable Songs About Social Anxiety
• 17 Soothing Meditations for Overcoming Social Anxiety
• 8 Truths of Living with Social Anxiety Disorder
• How to Be a Good Friend to Someone with Social Anxiety
• 4 Life-Changing Ways Blogging Has Improved My Social Anxiety

More social anxiety recommendations:

Social Anxiety to Social Successis a fantastic eBook, if you’re ready to gain control over your social anxiety.

I love that it’s super easy to follow along to, and there’s even a workbook so you can track your progress!

BUY SOCIAL ANXIETY EBOOK

Did you know there’s online therapy?

Online Therapy is a complete online therapy toolbox?

Your therapy toolbox includes:

• • Live video, voice, or text chat session with your therapist
  • 8 easy-to-follow sections, including 25 worksheets
  • Activity plan, journal, and tests

• Yoga and meditation videos

What I love about Online Therapy is that there are several life-changing options and therapists available, and you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home.

This means you never need to worry before getting help.

Get 20% off your first month with my exclusive link.

TRY ONLINE THERAPY NOW

50 Positive Affirmations for Overcoming Social Anxiety

The post 50 Positive Affirmations for Overcoming Social Anxiety appeared first on Okay Now Breathe.

And I used to stay away from the benefits of tea as a kid, because I used to think drinking tea was weird.

I used to think that it had crummy flavor, and I always thought that tea was just for old people like my grandma. Like, who even was I?

I might as well be my grandma with the amount of tea I drink. 

Types of Tea:

There are so many varieties of tea that it’s easy to find at least one that tickles your fancy.

Hot, cold, sweet, plain, green, black, red, white. You name it.

Besides plain water, tea is pretty much all I drink.

Don’t like it hot? Try it cold with a slice of lemon. Don’t like it plain? Add a couple of teaspoons of agave.

Not only can tea be super yummy, but it has a countless number of health benefits.

And what’s even more rad is that different types of teas affect different parts of the body.

Benefits of Tea:

• Boosts your immune system
• Protects your body from cancer
• Contains antioxidants
• Can provide energy
• Can help relax you

And if you have anxiety or depression like me, I would highly recommend picking up the teapot and pouring hot water to ease your symptoms.

8 Delicious Teas for Anxiety and Depression

*Be sure to talk to your doctor before drinking any of these teas!

ANXIETY

1. CHAMOMILE

If I had a tough day with anxiety, chamomile is my go-to tea.

It calms my nerves, relaxes my thoughts, and even helps me sleep.

It also tastes amazingly delicious with a little lemon or agave.

BUY ON AMAZON

2. PEPPERMINT

Peppermint tea is another one of my absolute favorites.

Not only does it make your tastebuds have a party, but peppermint is excellent at helping upset stomachs.

If you’re like me and struggle with an angry tummy when you have bad anxiety, then peppermint tea is a sure staple to add to your pantry.

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3. LAVENDER

Lavender has extremely strong calming properties.

Drinking a cup before bed can help your mood stabilize and help you fall asleep quicker.

It also relaxes your tummy when you’re tense and stressed.

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4. PASSIONFLOWER

Passionflower tea is one of the strongest on this list. It has even been compared to the prescription drug Xanax.

Like several of the teas I’ve mentioned, passionflower is fantastic at calming your nervous system and helping you get to sleep better.

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5. KAVA

Kava tea has been compared to the drug Buspar.

It’s so effective that it shouldn’t be used with alcohol and some prescription medications.

Kava has a very sweet-spicy taste. If you like cinnamon, you’ll like this tea!

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DEPRESSION

6. GREEN TEA

Buddhist monks have been drinking green tea for thousands of years to help them meditate.

I love how energizing green tea is, because with depression, we can use as much energy as we can get!

I think green tea is extra delicious with a fresh slice of lemon.

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7. GINSENG

Ginseng tea can help relieve symptoms of stress, energy, and fatigue associated with depression.

If you drink it more regularly, you’ll see even more benefits.

I definitely recommend adding maple syrup or sugar to it, since it is more of an earthy tea.

BUY ON AMAZON

8. ST JOHN’S WORT

St John’s Wort tea is used to promote emotional balance.

It has been known to be incredibly soothing and can even help boost your mood.

This tea has a mild herbal taste, with a hint of sour.

BUY ON AMAZON

Teas for Anxiety and Depression

Try drinking a cup every morning and night for a week and see how your body responds.

You can drink the same tea each time, or you can mix it up for the most health benefits.

You can also either drink it cold or hot!

What are you waiting for? Get pouring!

Related posts:

• 3 Mental Health Benefits of Taking a Bath
• Why You Should Have More Mental Health Days
• 5 Natural Remedies for Those Annoying Period Symptoms
• 10 Ways to Treat Yourself for Absolutely No Money at All

Did you know there’s online therapy?

Online Therapy is a complete online therapy toolbox.

Your therapy toolbox includes:

• • Live video, voice, or text chat session with your therapist
  • 8 easy-to-follow sections, including 25 worksheets
  • Activity plan, journal, and tests
  • Yoga and meditation videos

What I love about Online Therapy is that there are several life-changing options and therapists available, and you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home.

This means you never need to worry before getting help.

Get 20% off your first month with my exclusive link.

TRY ONLINE THERAPY NOW

The post 8 Delicious Teas for Anxiety and Depression appeared first on Okay Now Breathe.

The writers of these blogs give me hope and make me feel less alone.

The best part is they’re relatable, honest, and incredibly helpful.

Even if you don’t have a mental illness, you can benefit from reading a mental health blog.

Everyone has mental health, and everyone can benefit from growing as a person.

Keep reading for 14 must-read personal development and mental health blogs.

14 Personal Development and Mental Health Blogs

1. ANXIOUS LASS

Anxious Lass talks a lot about living with anxiety (especially social anxiety) and depression. You’ll also find posts on chronic illness as well.

Favorite post:

• 15 Things I Use to Manage My Mental Health

If you suffer from social anxiety, don’t forget to check out her eBook, Social Anxiety to Social Success.

It’s fantastic if you’re ready to gain control over your social anxiety.

I love that it’s super easy to follow along to, and there’s even a workbook so you can track your progress!

BUY SOCIAL ANXIETY EBOOK

2. RESILIENT

I’ve been following Resilient for years. Actually, it was probably the first mental health blog I ever stumbled on.

I love that it focuses on all aspects of mental health, from mental illnesses to self-care.

Favorite post:

• 26 Things to Do When You’re Having a Bad Day

Plus, if you’re short on time, Resilient is an excellent blog to read since all the posts are relatively short.

You can also find several eBooks and online classes, such as Negativity Detox and Figure Out Your Life. They’re incredible resources to help jump start your healing.

CHECK OUT STORE

3. THE INSPIRATION LADY

Another of my favorite blogs is The Inspiration Lady.

You’ll find an assortment of posts on self-improvement, wellness, and lifestyle, and I’ve applied to so much of the advice to my own life.

Favorite post:

• 5 Things You Didn’t Realize Were Putting You in a Bad Mood

If you’re looking to learn self-love, she has a Love Yourself book, as well as a Love Yourself Workbook.

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4. ROSE-MINDED

Rose-Minded is dedicated to providing mental health awareness, support, and education.

Favorite post:

• 5 Self-Care Myths

On the blog, you can three 52 week Mental Health Journal Guides.

You can pick from anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.

In the guides, you can find weekly gratitude, emotional intelligence, self-care prompts.

With my code meagan15 you’ll get 15% off your purchase.

CHECK OUT SHOP

5. SHINE SHEETS

On Shine Sheets, you’ll find a plethora of mental health and personal growth blog posts.

I love the entire aesthetic of this blog – super colorful, yet calming!

Favorite post:

• 10 Deeply Relaxing Items That Make Living with Anxiety Easier 

You’ll also find several countless products on anxiety, depression, self-care, productivity, and so much more!

CHECK OUT SHOP

6. THE HOW TO SOCIAL WORKER

At The How to Social Worker, you’ll uncover topics such as anxiety, addiction, mindset, and growth.

Favorite post:

• 13 Expert Ways To Overcome Anxiety At Work Today

With counseling in mind, you’ll also find My Therapy Companion, a workbook designed to be successful in therapy.

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Did you know there’s online therapy?

Online Therapy is a complete online therapy toolbox.

Your therapy toolbox includes:

• • Live video, voice, or text chat session with your therapist
  • 8 easy-to-follow sections, including 25 worksheets
  • Activity plan, journal, and tests
  • Yoga and meditation videos

What I love about Online Therapy is that there are several life-changing options and therapists available, and you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home.

This means you never need to worry before getting help.

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7. ABOUT SOCIAL ANXIETY

With a main focus on – you guessed it – social anxiety, About Social Anxiety is a fantastic resource for overcoming the fear of social situations.

Favorite post:

• How to Practice Relaxation for Anxiety

In the shop, you’ll find a couple of crucial workbooks created to defeat social anxiety.

CHECK OUT SHOP

8. BLESSING MANIFESTING

Blessing Manifesting is a real powerhouse in all things self-love and personal development.

I love how stunning and inspiring the graphics are.

Favorite post:

• Distress Tolerance: Self-Soothing

She also sells a bunch of products like the Daily Self-Care Worksheets and Anxiety Workbook. You can buy all the products either in digital or physical form.

CHECK OUT SHOP

9. RADICAL TRANSFORMATION PROJECT

Radical Transformation Project focuses on anxiety, depression, and living a radically fulfilling life.

It’s a frontrunner blog in the mental health community.

Favorite post:

• Take Care of You: A Guide to Guilt Free Self-Care

You can also take the Mental Health Masterclass, where you can narrow down what coping skills will make a difference in your life and create a plan to implement them.

BUY THE COURSE

10. LIVING SIMPLY

Living Simply is an awesome self-improvement blog.

The blog covers a variety of topics, including anxiety, depression, and wellness.

Favorite post:

• 5 Ways Helping Others Boosts Your Mental Health and Wellbeing

Every blog post is well thought out and well written, and it’s definitely worth checking out.

CHECK BLOG OUT

11. SUCCEED NOW

For all things personal development, check out Succeed Now.

The writer’s goal is to provide support, advice, and coaching to improve your mindset and your life.

Favorite post:

• How to Build Confidence

If you’re just getting started with self-care, I recommend taking this 5 Day Self-Care Challenge. You’ll learn what it takes to put yourself first.

CHECK OUT SHOP

12. SOBER BADASSERY/UNJUNKIEFIED

If you’re struggling with addiction and recovery, Sober Badassery is the blog for you.

Favorite post:

• How Relapse Dreams in Recovery Is Actually Your Mind Coping

This blog is filled with such eyeopening advice.

I know in the thick of my self-harm addiction, Sober Badassery would’ve been a huge help.

CHECK OUT BLOG

13. HOPEFUL LOTUS

With a focus on personal growth and spirituality, Hopeful Lotus is a blog you turn to when you need inspiration.

Spirituality and the law of attraction is something I hold near to my heart, so it’s fantastic seeing a fellow blogger talk about them.

Favorite post:

• How to do a Powerful Candle Gazing Meditation in 6 Steps

On top of that, Hopeful Lotus has a compelling Breakthrough Manifestation eWorkbook.

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14. SOLUTIONS TO ALL YOUR PROBLEMS

If you are a fellow introvert, then you need to check out Solutions to All Your Problems.

You’ll also discover posts on anxiety and depression.

Favorite post:

• 7 Signs You Have HSP Anxiety

Solutions to All Your Problems also has a Conquer Your Anxiety eBook that’s designed for introverts and highly sensitive people with anxiety.

BUY CONQUER YOUR ANXIETY

Mental Health Blogs

There you have it: My favorite mental health and personal development blogs!

Not only are they incredibly valuable, but they are also immensely relatable.

What are your favorite blogs to read? Let me know below!

Related posts:

• How to Create a Profitable Mental Health Blog on Bluehost
• 4 Life-Changing Ways Blogging Has Improved My Social Anxiety
• How to Be a Successful Blogger When You Have Social Anxiety

The post 14 Must-Read Mental Health and Personal Development Blogs for 2020 appeared first on Okay Now Breathe.