Blog 1: Self Care for Anxiety including Nutrition

Welcome to my blog! My name is Michelle Pettengill, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for helping people manage their anxiety and stress through self-care techniques. As someone who has struggled with anxiety in the past, I know firsthand how important it is to take care of your physical and mental health.

I am passionate about self care, as I recently found out my own symptoms of worry, headaches, negative self talk, and lack of time for me was crippling me. I felt bloated for most of my life, have had migraines since a little girl, and would constantly be saying to myself "well what if this happens or that happens", and I was driving my own self nuts! I tried talking to other people, I tried seeing doctors, and I tried "eating healthy." Nothing was working for me. Then, I finally listened. I listened to me, what my body was really saying, and what my mind was really telling me. My self awareness grew more than I thought was possible. I made a plan for my own self care that included being more mindful, present, and more responsive. I began eating foods that were right for me and invested in supplements that are making my body work the way it is supposed to. I can honestly say that this is the best I have felt in my body, and in my mind.

In this blog, I'll be sharing tips and strategies for managing anxiety through self-care practices, including nutrition. I believe that taking care of your body and mind is essential for reducing anxiety and promoting overall well-being.

One of the areas that I specialize in is the intersection between nutrition and mental health. The food we eat can have a significant impact on our mood and energy levels. For example, a eating lots of processed foods and sugar can lead to mood swings and increased anxiety, while eating whole foods and nutrients can support a more stable mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.

But self-care for anxiety isn't just about nutrition. It's also about taking time to relax, exercise, and engage in activities that bring you joy. In future posts, I'll be sharing strategies for reducing stress through mindfulness and other relaxation techniques.

Upcoming topics that will be shared include breathwork, mindfulness, compassionate self talk, sleep tips, and information on the best foods and supplements for reducing anxiety. I'll also be discussing the importance of hydration and the benefits of crystals and essential oils for calming the mind and body.

My goal with this blog is to provide you with the tools and resources you need to manage your anxiety and stress through self-care practices. Whether you're dealing with chronic anxiety or just looking to improve your overall well-being, I believe that these practices can help you live a happier, healthier life.

Thank you for joining me on this journey towards better mental and physical health. I'm excited to share my knowledge and experience with you, and I hope that you'll find the information and resources on this blog helpful in your own self-care journey. Look for my next blog at the beginning of June! Talk Soon!