We all have little daily rituals and routines that help us feel comfortable and safe in our lives. But sometimes, these same rituals and practices can feel like a prison, trapping us in a cycle of anxiety and stress. If your daily life is becoming too constricting, it might be time to make minor changes. Here are four “micro-transitions” that may be causing you anxiety and how you can break free from them.
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Waking Up To A Loud Alarm
We all set alarms to go about our day, even to wake up. Having an alarm sound that makes you anxious or stressed will only add more to your plate. Instead, try setting a gentle alarm on your phone or an alarm gradually getting louder as the day continues.
Looking At Your Phone When You Wake Up
We’re all guilty of this. When you check your phone first thing in the morning, it can set a tone of anxiety for the rest of the day. Instead, try taking a few minutes to yourself to stretch, meditate, or enjoy the silence.
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Working At A Desk All Day
If you work at a desk, moving around and breathing fresh air throughout the day is essential. Take a break by walking away from your desk. Set a timer on your phone or computer to remind you to walk every hour.
Sleeping With Your Phone
We’ve all been there. You’re tired and want to go to bed, but you can’t resist checking your phone one last time. However, staring at a screen before bed can make it harder to fall asleep and disrupt your sleep cycle. So instead, try reading a book or listening to calming music before bed. Making even small changes in your daily routine can help to reduce anxiety and stress.