I have been dealing with noticeable levels of anxiety for the past few years. This is fairly significant for me, because I do not remember having much anxiety throughout most of my life. However, after graduating college, getting a job, quitting a job, then jumping into the entrepreneur/ small business life, I have had my fair share of anxiety.
To deal with my anxiety, I have spent a lot of time trying analyze it and have been developing systems of behavior to improve my overall physical and mental health. These behavior changes have been productive, however, there is one major factor I had been neglecting - sleep!
After trying all types of breathing exercises, working out, positive self-talk, all of which has been great, still nothing would eliminate the anxiety. Though after cutting unnecessary things out of my life, and getting more continuous sleep, I have noticed a huge reduction in anxiety. I don't wake up feeling rushed and overwhelmed by my day, I am not in a constant state of panic and doubt about success, and I think sleep is a big part of it. Now that my schedule allows for more continuous sleep, I have felt a huge reduction in anxiety. Also, when I have a long day with little sleep, I can start to feel those anxious thoughts bubbling up in my mind. With this new information about myself, I highly encourage others try and adjust your sleep if you deal with high amounts of stress and anxiety. If you have trouble sleeping look into melatonin, it helps me greatly.
Good luck!