Today, let’s chat about anxiety. You know, that feeling that sometimes creeps up on us and tries to take over? Our bodies are always trying to communicate with us through somatic cues, emotions, and physical symptoms. They’re like messengers, trying to tell us something important. Instead of just pushing through the anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout like many of us do, we can learn to slow down and really listen to these messages. Trust me, they can guide us towards some powerful changes that can truly benefit us.

So, I want to share with you five messages that your anxiety might be trying to send you. These are the top signals I see in the amazing women I work with. Ready? Let’s dive in!

1. Move Your Body

When we feel anxious, our bodies are in fight-or-flight mode, part of our sympathetic nervous system. It’s like our internal alarm system telling us we need to move to survive. Think about it: when we’re anxious, our body is screaming for movement, whether it’s fighting or running. Ignoring this impulse can actually make our anxiety worse.

If you’re feeling jittery or twitchy, your body is probably telling you to move. This isn’t the time for meditation or deep breathing. Instead, try going for a 10-minute walk, doing some jumping jacks, or even just shaking your body out. Honor that impulse to move, and you’ll likely find your anxiety easing as your body feels safer and shifts out of fight-or-flight mode.

2. Focus on What’s Within Your Control

If you’re a worrier who tends to imagine worst-case scenarios, your anxiety might be signaling that you need to focus on what you can actually control. We all have a need for safety and acceptance. When we feel these are lacking, we try to control everything around us to regain that sense of safety.

Remind yourself that you are safe and loved. Then, get real about what you can actually control. We can’t control other people, our partners, or our children. What we can control is our own choices, words, and actions. Let go of the need to control what’s beyond your reach, and focus on what you can change.

3. Do or Say Something You’ve Been Avoiding

Avoidance can cause a lot of anxiety. Whether it’s a difficult conversation, a decision you need to make, or a boundary you need to set, avoiding it can wear you down. If you’ve been putting off something important, your anxiety might be sending you a message to face it head-on.

Take that leap. Have the tough conversation. Set that boundary. Stop that bad habit. Whatever it is, taking action can bring you peace and a sense of accomplishment. The relief you’ll feel is worth the discomfort of confronting what you’ve been avoiding.

4. Cut Down on Alcohol and Caffeine

It might seem obvious, but many women don’t realize how much caffeine and alcohol can impact their anxiety. These substances can create a vicious cycle of highs and lows that leave you feeling more anxious and depleted.

For example, drinking coffee first thing in the morning when your cortisol levels are already high can spike your anxiety. Try waiting a bit longer to have your coffee, or pair it with some protein to mitigate the effects. Similarly, while alcohol might help you relax initially, it disrupts your sleep and leaves you feeling more anxious the next day.

If this resonates with you, don’t miss my Energy Upgrade Masterclass on June 4th. I’ll share healthier ways to boost your energy naturally, breaking free from the cycle of relying on caffeine and alcohol. Save your spot through the link in the show notes or visit michellegrosser.com/energy.

5. Take a Tech Break

Our screens can be a major source of anxiety. Whether it’s the constant barrage of information or the social comparisons we make on social media, tech can leave us feeling overwhelmed and inadequate.

If you’re experiencing anxiety, it might be a sign that you need to step away from the screens. Information overload and social comparison can both trigger anxiety, so give yourself a break. Unplug for a while and let your nervous system relax.

Remember, your anxiety is trying to tell you something. By getting curious and listening to these signals, you can make changes that help you feel more balanced and at peace.

Have a question you’d love Michelle to answer on the podcast? “Ask Michelle a Question.” Click this link, record your message, hit send, and I’ll answer it in a future episode!