Coping with Anxiety: Finding Steady Ground in Uncertain Times

Anxiety can show up in many ways — a racing heart, tense muscles, restless thoughts, or a feeling that something just isn’t right. It’s a normal human response to stress, but when it feels constant or overwhelming, it can be exhausting.

Coping with anxiety isn’t about making it disappear. It’s about learning how to meet it with understanding, calm your body, and steady your mind so you can move through life with more ease and clarity.

Understanding Anxiety

Anxiety often develops as your body’s way of trying to protect you. It signals that something feels unsafe or uncertain — even when no immediate danger exists. Over time, your nervous system can stay “stuck” in that alert state, leaving you tired or on edge.

The good news is that you can retrain your body and mind to respond differently. With practice, calming strategies and mindful awareness help you shift from anxious reactivity to a greater sense of stability and control.

Try This Grounding and Breathing Practice

When you notice anxiety rising, pause and take a slow, steady breath. Feel your feet on the floor and your body supported by the chair beneath you.

Try saying quietly to yourself:

“In this moment, I am safe.”

Repeat as you continue breathing slowly. This small reminder — paired with gentle awareness of your surroundings — can help your body recognize that the present moment is okay.

A Gentle Reminder…

Managing anxiety takes patience and compassion. Some days will feel easier than others — and that’s okay. Over time, learning how to soothe your body, calm your thoughts, and respond with care can help you feel more grounded and empowered, even when life is uncertain.

Rovena Sondhaus, MA, LMHC, CTP
Sondhaus Counseling Services, LLC

 

If you’d like to explore healthy coping tools in a supportive space, learn about my Coping Skills Classes for Adults at sondhauscounseling.com/class-offerings.

 

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Grounding Techniques: Finding Calm When Life Feels Overwhelming

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Mindful Breathing & Relaxation: A Simple Way to Find Calm