Mental health update...posting above tags in case it might help someone else. Won't get into too many details, but dealing with ptsd/anxiety/depression. I'm on meds but trying out some other therapy tools, because holistic approaches are best imho.
Weighted materials- truly help when my anxiety spikes, especially when placed or held over my chest. I've used buckwheat pillows and flaxseed pillows and even my purse in a pinch. Also just ordered a weighted blanket to try out that I'm hoping might be good for trips. We'll see.
Aromatherapy- using essential oils with extreme caution bc 1- you should in general, and 2- I have mild asthma and eczema. But. Bergamot, lavender, sage, and rosemary all seem okay and helpful. Using diluted on clothing/bedding not skin for all, and have added to simple white vinegar/water household cleanser I use. Note: I do not currently have pets or other humans living with me, and might have to alter things if I did.
Senses distraction- 5 things you see/hear/touch/taste/smell truly works for me when I feel myself getting overwhelmed
Visualization/grounding- my personal visualization is somewhat of a combination of others I've read, I think. My common anxiety trigger is sensory overload, so I picture the chaos as scattered dirt, essentially. Sometimes it's one color; sometimes it's not, but I let it be whatever it feels like at the moment, then slowly inhale it and transform it into whatever color(s) and texture feels calming or comforting at that time until my inhales and exhales match and I'm surrounded by peace. What is jagged and scattered becomes smooth and harmonious.
Talking- I have trouble with this for multiple reasons, including trauma, but I've found I can at least talk to myself sometimes. I can listen to the me from the past and let her know that she is heard, and loved, and didn't deserve to go through that. I can tell her that we are safe right now and that we have found supportive loving friends now. I have to combine this with one or more of the above, but it is helping.
Yoga- the combination of controlled breathing and body movements with stretching remains extremely beneficial for me. Even just stretching that isn't precisely yoga helps tons. If I'm able, this is also the easiest way for me to attempt mind-body-spirit connection and balance.
Gardening/nature interaction- I've always loved plants, so there is easy joy just seeing them and especially planting things and watching them grow. There's also good stress relief in tending to that which you want to grow, and in ripping out what you don't. Attacking weeds is my favorite anger management by far. This is my second easiest way to attempt mind-body-spirit balance.