Abstract/TL;DR: Pause and check in with yourself periodically to manage anxiety. Take a moment to be present, identify the source of anxiety, and practice self-compassion. Ground yourself in the present moment, embrace mindfulness, and be gentle with yourself. It’s a powerful tool for self-awareness and reducing anxiety.

So, let’s talk about something that’s been really helpful for me when it comes to managing anxiety – checking in with myself. Life can get pretty overwhelming sometimes, and it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos without taking a moment to breathe. I’ve found that making a conscious effort to check in with myself periodically can make a world of difference.

When I say “check in,” I mean taking a few moments to pause, step back, and become aware of how I’m feeling and what’s going on inside my mind. It’s like having a little heart-to-heart with myself. I find a quiet spot, take a deep breath, and let myself be in the present moment.

One thing I’ve realized is that it’s crucial not to judge myself during this check-in process. There’s no right or wrong way to feel, and I don’t need to compare myself to others. My emotions are valid, even if they seem irrational or overwhelming at times.

During these check-ins, I try to identify the source of my anxiety. Is it related to school work, relationships, or something else entirely? Understanding the root cause can help me address the issue more effectively.

I’ve also learned the importance of self-compassion during these moments. Instead of beating myself up for feeling anxious, I try to be gentle and understanding with myself. It’s like being a supportive friend to myself, offering words of encouragement and kindness.

One technique I often use is grounding myself in the present moment. I focus on my senses – the feeling of the ground beneath my feet, the sound of birds chirping, or the warmth of the sun on my skin. Bringing my attention back to the present helps break the cycle of anxious thoughts that might be spiraling out of control.

Another thing that has helped me immensely is practicing mindfulness and meditation. Taking even just a few minutes to meditate each day has allowed me to build resilience and reduce overall anxiety levels. It doesn’t have to be anything complicated; simply sitting quietly and observing my thoughts without getting tangled up in them can be incredibly calming.

Of course, I’m not perfect, and there are times when I forget to check in with myself. Life can be busy, and that’s okay. The key is to remember that checking in with myself is not something I have to do perfectly or consistently. It’s about being gentle and understanding with myself and making an effort to come back to it whenever I can.

So, if you’re dealing with anxiety or stress, I encourage you to try this practice of checking in with yourself. It might feel strange at first, but over time, it can become a powerful tool for self-awareness and managing those anxious thoughts. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and taking care of yourself is a beautiful act of self-love.

Take care of and be kind to yourself!

Through self-awareness, I find release, 
A tranquil mind, a moment of peace. 
With each check-in, I’m gently led, 
To manage anxiety, where it once bred.
With love and care, my heart I steer,
Release the fear, I persevere,
Release the fear, the calm is near.