Anxiety and the Need to Stay Busy

It’s common to feel a need to stay busy when you’re anxious. Staying busy seems to distract you from your worries, but it can actually do the complete opposite and worsen anxiety.

 

I went to church Sunday and ironically, the sermon was on Martha. Martha invited Jesus to her house for dinner. Of course this was a great opportunity for Martha and her sister, Mary. While Mary sat in Jesus’ presence, Martha was going every which way but right. She even asked Jesus to tell her sister to help her with the preparations. Martha wanted everything perfect; Jesus wanted one thing, her attention. Meanwhile, Mary was all ears, open to whatever Jesus had at the table for her.

 

“...you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed- or indeed only one.” (Luke 10:42)

 

Martha had a great opportunity in front of her, but her need to be busy and perfect, when it was not required, almost robbed her of it!

 

Can you relate? I definitely can.

 

Let’s be real: High-functioning anxiety and the constant worry of not doing enough is a silent killer. In our current society, the hustle culture has us thinking we can “sleep when we are dead” and in reality, IT’S B.S.! Your body needs sleep. You NEED relaxation. You deserve it!

 

Here are some tips for managing anxiety and the urge to stay busy:

• Acknowledge your feelings. Don't try to avoid your anxiety by staying busy. Instead, allow yourself to feel your emotions.
• Practice relaxation techniques. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help to calm your mind and body. (“12 Practical Steps to Navigate Anxiety When Therapy Isn't an Option”)
• Schedule in some downtime. Make time for activities that you enjoy and that help you to relax. (“KARA AYALA• Female Investor (@kara_ayala) - Instagram”)
• Seek professional help. If you're struggling to manage your anxiety on your own, a therapist can teach you coping mechanisms and help you develop a treatment plan. (“Controlling Your Emotions When People Speak Negatively to You or About You”)

Relaxation is a powerful tool for managing anxiety. When you're feeling anxious, your body goes into fight-or-flight mode. This can cause physical symptoms like a racing heart, muscle tension, and rapid breathing. Relaxation techniques can help to counteract these physical effects and promote a sense of calm.

Here are some of the benefits of relaxing while having anxiety:

• Reduces physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heart, muscle tension, and rapid breathing
• Improves sleep quality
• Boosts mood
• Increases focus and concentration
• Improves overall well-being

"There are many different relaxation techniques that you can try." (“What is Relaxation? - kissmp3.biz”) Some popular options include:

• Deep breathing exercises
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Meditation
• Yoga
• Spending time in nature

If you're struggling with anxiety, it's important to find relaxation techniques that work for you. Experiment with different options and see what helps you to feel your best.