Meditation helps man cope with overwhelming anxiety during pandemic
- Dave Johnson developed a meditation routine to manage his heightened anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- This practice involves spending time in a designated calming space, allowing for deep breathing and mindfulness.
- Meditation has helped him cope better with stress, emphasizing the importance of mental health strategies.
In St. Anthony, Minnesota, Dave Johnson has developed a daily meditation practice to combat anxiety exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a public health professional, he faced increased stress due to the intense demands of work and family life during this period. Focusing on mental health, he incorporated several strategies to manage his anxiety, including medication and changing therapists alongside his commitment to meditation. His practice involves spending 5 to 15 minutes a day in a specifically designated calming space in his home. While meditation alone hasn't cured his condition, it has provided him with tools to cope better and regain some peace of mind. Meditation offers a structured approach to mindfulness, enabling practitioners to center their thoughts and control anxiety-inducing narratives. In Johnson's case, this practice allows him to consciously decide against engaging with negative self-talk, which tends to escalate his feelings of anxiety. The routine of pausing to take three deep breaths at the beginning of each session helps him cultivate a moment of calm. Experts highlight meditation as an accessible method to improve mental health, particularly in times of stress. Professionals recommend resources such as meditation apps, which guide beginners through the process. Setting realistic goals for meditation frequency and creating a physical space for practice can be vital steps toward making meditation a habit. Johnson acknowledges that while daily practice has worked well for him, others may find different routines that suit their lifestyles. As more individuals confront increased anxiety, especially post-pandemic, exploring meditation's benefits is more relevant than ever. The push for mental wellness is gaining momentum, encouraging many to seek strategies that enhance their quality of life. Individuals like Johnson demonstrate how simple yet effective practices can lead to significant improvements in managing anxiety, highlighting the importance of prioritizing mental health in everyday life.