February is American Heart Month and a good time to focus on heart health. But did you know that taking care of your heart can also have an important benefit for your mental health? Protecting your heart and making lifestyle changes can not only lower your risk of heart disease but can also help manage symptoms of stress and anxiety.
One of the First Topics I Discuss with New Clients in Anxiety Counseling is the Mind-Body Connection
You probably already know how this works from past experiences, but when you take care of your body (especially your heart), most people notice that their mood is better and stress is lower. In particular, being active can be an important approach to treating anxiety. Not only do you reap the benefits of exercise for your heart, but you get a double bonus because exercise can lift your mood and reduce anxiety. When you are more active, your body releases endorphins, or “feel good” brain hormones, that can improve your sense of well-being.
Getting Outside and Moving Around Can Be a Key Ingredient to Reducing 
Anxiety
Many people who are anxious report feeling restless and keyed up. What better way to work this out than being active?! Some people may have barriers to being active–sometimes physical, sometimes logistical (too busy!). But even a little can go a long way to reducing anxiety and giving yourself a brain break. I teach my clients about mindfulness exercises that they can do in little chunks of time, with very little effort, and just about anywhere.
Next Time You Step Outside or Get Up From Your Desk, Try the Following Exercise
Take a deep breath and focus on the air coming in and out of your mouth or nose. Notice all of your 5 senses: What do you see around you? Do you hear anything? If so, what do you hear? Can you touch or feel around you? Maybe the wind on your face, the heat of the sun on your head, or your soft cozy jacket or sweater? What can you smell? Also, what do you taste (maybe your lunch!)? Really try to answer all of these questions and if any other thought pops into your head, just notice it and put it away for another time.
One of The Best Places to Practice Mindfulness is Outside in Nature 
There is so much to notice if you take the time to look around. Our area is blessed with wonderful space to explore, get active, and take a brain break. The Big Creek Greenway in Alpharetta, GA, and Roswell, GA is a wonderful place for exercising and practicing mindfulness. You can walk, run, ride a bike–and take in all the sights and sounds. One of my favorite places to bring my kids is Webb Bridge Park in Alpharetta, GA off Webb Bridge Road. Kids can run and swing on the playground and there are trails for walking and running. Don’t forget to bring your furry friend too!
Interested in Anxiety Counseling in Alpharetta, GA?
If you’re interested in learning more about reducing anxiety and the role that the mind-body connection plays in this, we’d be happy to meet with you. Our team of therapists provides anxiety therapy for children, teens, and adults. Take the first step and give us a call to see how we can help. At Wellview Counseling, we will work with you to create a plan that takes your social anxiety into account. So that you can find the job that is perfect for you. If you’re interested in starting therapy:
- Contact Wellview Counseling
- Meet with Our Therapists
- Begin Making the Mind-Body Connection to Help Reduce Your Anxiety!
Other Therapy Services Offered at Wellview Counseling
Anxiety may be just one of the challenges you are facing. Our therapists at Wellview Counseling want to support you as you face these challenges. We offer individual counseling, child counseling, teen counseling, young adult therapy, family therapy, postpartum depression and anxiety counseling, trauma, and PTSD treatment, and therapy for those with a chronic illnesses. Regardless of the challenge you face, our therapists are here to help. Our office is in Roswell, GA, but we also offer online therapy to anyone in Georgia. If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment please feel welcome to reach out to us!
About the Author
Ashley Bobo, LCSW is a passionate anxiety therapist based in Roswell, GA with over 20 years of experience helping individuals of all ages and backgrounds overcome anxiety. She takes a holistic approach to therapy, incorporating movement to reduce anxiety and promote well-being. Ashley is dedicated to providing empathetic support and helping her clients develop coping skills to live more fulfilling lives. If you’re struggling with anxiety, visit Wellview Counseling’s website to learn more about Ashley and her approach to anxiety counseling.
Itís nearly impossible to find well-informed people for this topic, but you seem like you know what youíre talking about! Thanks