We are living in a post-pandemic world. This means that we have just come out of a deadly pandemic. We have lost our loved ones, family members, and jobs. To worsen the matter, we are headed toward a looming recession. Given all these unprecedented events, it is ‘pretty understandable’ to worry about the unseen future that awaits us. During these days of crises, it is ‘normal to be worried about the future.
Anxiety kicks in when you worry about the future and do not know what it holds for you. Essentially, you are not sure about the future and naturally, you anticipate bad things happening to you in the future. This is not a pie in the sky, though, as they say. Instead, it is something rational.
Think about it this way:
You have barely made it through the deadly pandemic.
What awaits you ahead is a grave financial crisis – something like the Great Depression of 2008.
Will you not be bothered by it? Of course, being worried about your future – and the future of your kids – is apparent, given the challenging environment that you are in. According to the latest Times report, 35% of Americans are exposed to anxiety because of the pandemic and the looming financial crisis.
Now, let’s take a look at another perspective: Is it ‘okay’ to worry about the unseen future? Of course, it is. In fact, this is something you should do. But the real question is: Does it solve the problem? Unfortunately, it does not. That is why it is pertinent to see the available alternatives.
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Anxiety: Address the Elephant in the Room First
First thing first: Before you worry about what the future holds for you, address the elephant in the room first. This means you will have to address your mental health issue first – prior to sorting out the future.
One of the most effective ways of addressing anxiety is through physical movement. Take physical movements every now and then. It could be as simple as walking in the park and doing your household stuff.
This could also be as simple as washing your car and moving your lawn. This way, you are telling your subconscious mind that you are engaged, and scientific studies suggest that an engaged body always resists anxiety.
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Physical Activities Do Reduce Anxiety
There are numerous scientific studies that show that physical activities are vital for the reduction of anxiety. Science argues that you can potentially “trick your mind” through physical activities.
Through physical activities, you signal your subconscious mind that you are proactive. And that you have got a lot of things to do in life. This way, you will be less worried about your future and more focused on the present. In turn, it will help you in reducing anxiety.