In the age of endless streaming, scrolling, limitless information, and ‘head-down-and-grind’ culture, getting through the day can be overwhelming, to say the least.
We’re only human, after all. There are only so many hours in the day, and even though we may have some tried-and-true methods to wind down, sometimes it’s not enough to keep anxiety at bay.
That doesn’t mean you have to take a beach vacation or spend money at the spa, though. Instead, check out these more accessible items designed for coping with stress and worry.
| Price | Product type | Features | |
|---|---|---|---|
| All In Motion Acupressure Mat | $30 | padded mat with soft spikes | includes pillow; foldable design; stimulates pressure points |
| Brick | $59 | physical phone blocker | 2 in by 2 in plastic brick; no subscription required; ‘strict mode’ prevents users from bypassing |
| yescool Weighted Blanket | $43.99 | blanket weighted with glass beads | 22 different blanket sizes; 11 different weights; machine washable |
| Double Wood Magnesium Glycinate | $19.95 | capsule supplements | vegan; gluten-free; non-GMO; third-party tested; CGMP-Certified |
| CBDfx Mixed Berry Gummies | $54.99 | broad-spectrum CBD gummies | vegan; gluten-free; organic hemp; no THC; 3 different strengths; CGMP-Certified; COAs available |
| luckdoor Magnetic Fidget Balls | $12.99 | nontoxic silicone balls with black stone magnets | can come in a pack of 4 or 8; four different types of textures; includes storage bag |
| Calm | $14.99/month | subscription for meditation app | sleep stories; guided meditations; mood tracker; soundscapes; music tracks; mindful movement sessions |
For this article, I asked some of our editors about what they use to help manage any anxiety symptoms, and from there, I submitted each brand and product through our vetting process.
Every brand and product in our Healthline articles has undergone extensive scrutiny before being included. Our rigorous vetting process ensures you’ll see only recommendations we stand behind. Each one is evaluated for medical credibility, product quality, company reputation, and good business practices.
Anxiety feels different to everyone, but common feelings range from familiar fear and worry to butterflies in your stomach, repetitive movements, or increased heart rate. You may feel out of control, as though your mind and body are disconnected.
In some cases, you may experience more physical symptoms like body aches and pains, headaches, chest pain, or shaking.
The 3-3-3 Rule
Sometimes, the hardest part is knowing when you’re in it and how to get out. If you experience an overwhelming sense of anxiety, panic, or fear, try the 3-3-3 rule. It’s a grounding technique that helps bring you back from the peak of your anxiety.
- Name 3 things you see.
- Identify 3 things you hear.
- Move or touch 3 things near you.
There are other variations of the 3-3-3 rule. Whichever you find most useful could be a helpful tool to have when you can feel your anxiety bubbling up.
The 3-3-3 rule is not a substitute for treatment, however, no matter how helpful it may be to you or how often you use it. If you experience panic attacks or overwhelming bouts of anxiety, try speaking with a therapist about your symptoms.
You are not alone.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency and is at immediate risk of hurting yourself or someone else, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.
Other tips and methods for anxiety relief
There are many different techniques you can try to help manage anxiety symptoms, including medication and therapy.
- Try doing something physical, like taking a walk or stepping away to change the scenery. You can practice your breathwork or try meditating, too.
- If your mind feels like it’s in overdrive, try writing in a journal, coloring, or doing something creative to channel your thoughts into something you can see.
- Want to spend less screen time? Try creating an analog bag that has all your favorite non-techy hobbies instead of reaching for your device. For example, a paint-by-numbers kit, an embroidery kit, or a puzzle.
The world we live in is rapidly changing, and we can tune in to it almost every second. It’s not surprising that we get overstimulated.
Hopefully, one of these products caught your eye, and you’re able to find a new hobby or practice that helps you find a daily dose of peace you deserve.
Keep in mind that if you’re trying to manage your anxiety through at-home remedies, and they’re not working, it’s always a good idea to check in with a healthcare or mental health professional to make sure you’re taking care of yourself fully.
The difference between stress and anxiety can come from a similar place, and they are sometimes even connected.
Stress happens from demands on our brain or body caused by an event or activity that makes us worried or nervous.
Anxiety is the same negative feeling and can be a reaction to that stress, but it can also happen to those without any obvious stressors.
The symptoms of stress and anxiety can look a lot alike, both mentally and physically.
Some common symptoms include:
- headache
- stomachache
- fast heartbeat
- sweating
- dizziness
- muscle tension
- jitteriness
- rapid breathing
- nervousness
- panic
- trouble concentrating
- irrational anger or irritability
- restlessness
- sleeplessness
There are a number of natural lifestyle remedies for anxiety that involve taking care of your body and sticking to healthy activities, like:
- getting enough sleep
- staying active
- eating healthy
- avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and cigarettes
However, if you feel you’re coping with more moderate to severe stress or anxiety and natural remedies aren’t helping, contact your doctor to discuss treatment options. Psychotherapy and medication are other avenues you could explore together.