Hack Your Brain And Ditch Anxiety Fast With These 6 Unexpected Tricks

I am always on the lookout for creative ways to channel my thoughts and energy. Jiu Jitsu has been a game-changer for me, not just physically but mentally, helping me stay present and in control of my emotions.

But lately, I’ve been diving into something new, writing kids’ books, and I am absolutely loving it. The magic of creating a whole new world from scratch, bringing characters to life, and shaping their adventures is something that completely consumes my mind.

There’s no room for stress or anxiety when you’re deep in a story, figuring out plot twists, or imagining a character’s next move.

And that’s the thing. When you’re fully immersed in something creative, you’re not spiraling in anxious thoughts. You’re not stuck overanalyzing things you can’t control.

You’re in the moment, completely mindful, and focused on the joy of making something from nothing. Whether it’s through movement, music, art, or storytelling, finding a creative outlet is a powerful way to keep anxiety at bay.

Having a creative outlet benefits you in a number of ways, both with anxiety and just your general mood and outlook on life. Creative activities often have a calming effect on the body and mind.

And don’t worry, you don’t need to be artistic or have a special skill for this to benefit you and help with your anxiety.

1-Something You Used to Enjoy Doing as a Kid

If you aren’t quite sure how to start, an easy way to transition into finding a creative outlet is thinking about what you enjoyed doing as a kid. Think of it first as a broad generalization, like drawing, painting, playing music, dancing, really anything that used that creative part of your brain.

From there, you can then figure out the specifics. Maybe you liked learning new forms of art rather than sticking to one thing, you enjoyed writing poetry or short stories, or loved coloring.

Anything you enjoyed as a kid could be a sign of what you might enjoy as an adult, even if it’s slightly different. Take it to the next level and give it a try right now. You will reduce your stress and your anxiety will suddenly be a lot easier to manage.

2-Meditate Through Music and Dance

People often think of being creative as having to be artistic and create something like art or crafts, but music and dance can also be part of the creative arts. Music and dance both get you into a type of meditative state.

Not one where you are sitting in a quiet room with your eyes closed, but where all your thoughts float away into the melody. From listening to music during your daily self-care routine to dancing it out in your living room, it is definitely worth exploring if you have anxiety.

3-Write a Book and Lose Yourself in a Whole New World

Lately, I’ve been venturing into the world of writing, and let me tell you—I haven’t felt this excited and inspired in a long time! Writing books has become my latest creative escape, and I’m absolutely in love with the process. It’s amazing how it relaxes me while sharpening my brain at the same time.

The best part? Writing books is more accessible and fun than ever before. With so many tools available nowadays, AI writing assistants, self-publishing platforms, and even design software, bringing stories to life is no longer reserved for professional writers.

If you’ve ever had an idea for a book, now is the time to make it happen. There’s no space for anxiety when your mind is busy building new worlds, creating characters, and crafting narratives that come to life on the page.

I can honestly say that writing feels like a deep, immersive experience where time disappears. Whether it’s a children’s book, a journal, or a fictional adventure, the act of writing allows your mind to focus, create, and escape all at once. And that’s a pretty powerful remedy for stress.

4-Learn Something New

This is also a great time to learn something new, whether it is a form of art you have always been curious about or taking a photography class to brush up on your skills. Make a list of the different creative activities you have been curious about.

Maybe you have a fancy camera but you don’t know about all the settings, or you have always wanted to try making pottery or ceramics. There are classes online and in person for just about anything, so let your imagination run wild.

5-The Science Behind Creativity and Anxiety

Creativity isn’t just a fun hobby, it’s science-backed therapy. Studies have shown that engaging in creative activities can lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone responsible for those tense, anxious feelings.

When you’re making something, your brain releases dopamine, the feel-good chemical that boosts your mood and motivation. Think of it as a natural anti-anxiety remedy without the side effects.

Jiu Jitsu taught me this on the mats, and writing kids’ books is teaching me this on the page. The more I create, the more I feel in control of my emotions.

And I’m convinced that everyone can find their own version of this, whether it’s painting, sculpting, baking, or even gardening. Anything that gets you into that flow state where time disappears and worries fade away.

6-Being Creative Doesn’t Require Being Artistic

Don’t shy away from finding a creative outlet just because you aren’t artistic. First of all, art is subjective, so what you personally love might not be what someone else loves and vice versa.

And most people who create things that others deem appealing practiced a lot at it. But when it comes to anxiety, you aren’t trying to be perfect. You are simply finding a hobby or activity that uses a different part of your brain, helps distract you, and gives you something to do just for you.

Your Turn: Try It Today

If anxiety has been creeping in lately, challenge yourself to try something creative today. It doesn’t have to be a big commitment, just 15 minutes of doodling, journaling, or playing an instrument can make a difference.

See how you feel afterward. You might be surprised at how quickly your mind shifts when you let yourself get lost in the process.

So tell me, what’s your creative outlet? If you don’t have one yet, what’s something you’ve always wanted to try?

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