Those struggling with anxiety might feel like they’re alone in all of this but it is, in fact, estimated that up to forty percent of adults suffer from an anxiety disorder of some kind. You’re definitely not alone, in other words, and the best way to handle it is to seek help from those who know more about it than we do.

While talking with a professional is one of the first things you should do, it’s good to know that there are small steps you’ll be able to take on your own as well. It’s not a guaranteed way of feeling calm and balances, of course, but it’s something you’ll be able to do for yourself to kick off the year in the best possible way.

Here is a handful of easy things you can do to stay calm and treat your anxiety this year so that you can end 2019 with a sense of renewed empowerment.

First: Focus on your breathing

If meditation sounds a bit over-the-top, you can easily start off by just focusing on improving your breathing. There are so many benefits to this and, considering that it’s perfectly free and can be done anywhere and at any time, it’s best to get started right away.

You’d want to breathe intentionally with your belly in a slow and rejuvenating manner. It’s not difficult to do at all; just relax and breathe naturally, to begin with, and closing your eyes if you feel comfortable. Place a hand on your belly and another hand on your chest, focusing on your breathing and inhaling at the count of four.

Hold your breath for a count of three before exhaling for a count of four again. The hand you’re holding on your belly should go in as you inhale and out as you exhale.

Next: Easing into meditation

While you’re sitting comfortably and breathing in your own company, it’s a good idea to keep a clear and calm mind. Cover yourself up in one of these Hush Blankets if you’re not completely comfortable, by the way, and you might find it a bit easier to relax.

Don’t push your thoughts away but allow them to drift by without intruding on you; your mind might feel a bit too busy even when you’re trying to relax and meditate but you are, in fact, just becoming aware of how busy your mind was, to begin with.

You can sit like this for as long as it feels comfortable or just until you noticed that your mind is significantly calmer. The method above is tried-and-tested, by the way, and it will only help you to find a sense of inner peace and a few minutes of relaxation - for anything more serious, it’s always better to talk to a professional for a bit more guidance.

Finally, you need to remember that self-care and listening to yourself is key to feeling calm, in general, during a hectic everyday life. Try to see your daily life from a bigger perspective and ask yourself if all of this really matter, in the long run.

It will help you in terms of staying calm when everything around you seems a bit hectic - and, if you need to take more risks and be up for another challenge, it will even help you to stay brave and not let a racing mind get the best of you.