Curiosity the Antidote to Anxiety

Positive Psychology researcher Todd Kashdan, PhD, teaches that we can consciously decide to be curious. That focus lessens our sense of anxiety, and Carol Dweck calls this curious mindset a ‘growth mindset’ – a state of mind that allows us to see new possibilities.

In times like these with the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 and the anxiety that may result, it is essential to use trusted and accurate sources for your information and give yourself a news time limit for the day, don’t stay glued to the TV or your device.

Instead of giving yourself a pep talk or breathing into a paper bag, try instead to focus on being actively engaged and curious by creating a distraction. Be curious about and explore your surroundings. What is that sound I can hear, how many birds can I see in the garden, how am I standing or moving etc.

In no time, your focus has shifted from the effects of anxiety and its worry to discovering new things in your surroundings, and you feel calmer.

Take care of your mental health, with proper nutrition, sleep, exercise, and keeping in touch with others, and please reach out to professionals if you need.

“The best use of imagination is creativity. The worst use of imagination is anxiety.” – Deepak Chopra

Photo by Victor Garcia