8 Things to Try if You’re Anxious to Socialize Again

As mandates are lifting (depending where you live), the weather is warming up enough for us to get outside and the vaccines are rolling out; we can say it is most certainly a different world than this time last year.

I don’t know about you but I am not okay to jump back into my pre-pandemic life. My anxiety has skyrocketed with the expectation of getting out and socializing more. I am somewhere in-between mid-pandemic anxiety and pre-pandemic freedom. So, I have compiled a list of things that really help when I am feeling extra anxious when I prepare to head out more.

1. Getting Outside

   Some fresh air will really do wonders for your mental health and circadian rhythm (sleep cycle). That and a little bit of sunshine is always great for the soul. If it is within your comfort level I recommend getting out to socialize. You can check 2 boxes at the same time. Maybe going to sit on a patio with a friend(s), check out an outdoor workout class or plan a picnic in the park!

2. Getting Dressed (up)

   I’m sure it doesn’t sound like anything impressive but getting out of those pajamas is so much better for how you feel and your productivity levels. The next time you leave the house try putting something nice on. Get dolled up and feel yourself, that confidence is good for the soul.

3. Mediate

   Meditation has so many benefits. And if sitting somewhere to still your mind sounds overwhelming or just not your style, you can always try a dancing or walking meditation. If you chose dancing, you can be alone or have someone with you, turn up the music, clear your mind and just move your body. Being in tune with yourself is one of the hardest things we can do as humans, so just try a bit a day. It is the least you can do, because you’re pretty important. I try to take 5-10 minutes every morning. Sometimes I sit still, sometimes I turn up my favorite song and other days I take a quick walk around the block.

4. Try to Keep a Sleep Schedule

   This one is tough, especially if all your days seem to be running together. Low sleep can lead to more anxiety, poor eating, less movement and so many more things that we can avoid. Something I have started recently is a sleep window. It doesn’t have to be the same time every night, but say that sometime between 10pm and midnight you must lay your head down and from there you can adjust to what is best for you.

5. Tingle Those Senses

   Try doing something sensory! We need to use our senses, that’s who we are as humans. And with such an extended period of time under a constant state of unintentional stress, sensory activities can help. These are activities like knitting, painting, gardening, crafting, playing some sort of instrument, singing, dancing; take your pick!

6. Listing What You are Grateful for

   This is actually something that has been studied a lot over the years. Gratitude journals have immense power in creating positivity and overall behavior change. Taking 2 minutes a day to write down 3 things you are grateful for can, overtime, change how you view your surroundings and everyday life, with a more positive and thankful outlook.

7. Move Your Body

   Moving your body has such a huge impact on your physical and mental health. You can start anywhere! Getting up and taking 5 minutes to stretch in the morning, maybe try jumping jacks every 30 minutes of tv you watch, taking a walk around the block, trying a new workout video, an impromptu yoga class in the living room or studio, or biking to a park. What ever it is, chose something you enjoy and then you won’t put it off! Those endorphins really help when we get to feeling overwhelmed.

8. Be kind to yourself

   It is so easy to get down on ourselves. I am constantly trying and working on being kinder to myself. When I am super down I picture my best friend and I ask myself if I would say those things to them or if they would say those things to me. I say kind words whether I believe them or not and then say them over and over until I feel a flicker of truth. From there I keep trying every day. We’re all flawed but who is to say those flaws aren’t our glitter? I love glitter!

Try these out and see if they help you feel a bit less anxious too! We are all shining stars, bright and beautiful, so take care of yourself, take care of that shine babe.