Anxiety, Grace, and the Little Things That Help Me Feel Safe

gentle reflections from someone still walking through it, too

If we were sitting across from each other right now, warm mugs in hand, maybe a cozy blanket wrapped around our shoulders, I’d probably sigh and tell you something I used to be scared to admit out loud:

I battle anxiety. And not just the “I’m a little nervous about tomorrow” kind. The kind that has shaped entire seasons of my life.

There were times—many times—when I couldn’t leave the house. Times I felt like I couldn’t breathe for no reason at all. I used to cancel plans more than I kept them. I avoided driving if I could help it (still do most days), and even a quick grocery trip felt like an Olympic-level feat.

I've sat in countless therapist chairs. I’ve tried the techniques. I’ve prayed. I’ve journaled. I’ve cried. I’ve felt ashamed and exhausted and angry that I couldn’t just “get over it.” I've been angry about the anxiety.

And yet, here I am. Still standing. Still choosing grace. Still learning how to feel safe in a world that sometimes doesn’t feel safe at all.

The Truth I Wish I’d Heard Sooner

Here it is, plain and simple:

You are not broken. You are not weak. You are not alone.

Anxiety is not a personal failure—it’s a response. It’s your body trying to protect you. It’s your mind saying, “Hey, something feels off.” And while it’s not always accurate, it’s not something to be ashamed of.

What we can do, however, is learn how to respond with gentleness. With compassion. With grace.

The Little Things That Help Me Feel Safe while battling Anxiety

Here are some of the small, steady things that help ground me on hard days. Maybe a few of them will help you, too.

1. A predictable rhythm

Knowing what’s coming helps me breathe easier. I keep my days simple. A slow morning routine. A small list of must-dos. Gentle transitions. Less chaos = less spiraling.

2. My safe spaces

There are certain places where I feel more like me—my cozy corner on the couch, a seat on the porch watching wildlife, or my bed at night with a soft movie playing. I try to return to these spaces when I feel untethered.

3. Reading or watching something uplifting

When my thoughts start spinning, I find so much comfort in listening to a good podcast or reading something that encourages personal growth and speaks life into my day. Whether it’s a gentle devotional, a book on mindset, or a soul-nourishing video, feeding my mind with kindness matters.

4. Aromatherapy + comfort scents

I use my favorite Lemongrass Spa products daily—not just for skincare, but for the grounding ritual of it all. Scents like lavender, eucalyptus, and citrus bring me back to center.

5. Candle warmers, soft lights, and calm sounds

The glow of a lamp, soft instrumental music, or a favorite show playing low in the background makes me feel less alone—like the world is still turning, and I’m okay in it.

6. Journaling (without pressure)

I don’t journal every day. But when I do, it’s like unloading a backpack I didn’t realize I was carrying. Even scribbling three lines can bring relief. Writing this blog has also become a beautiful way for me to release my thoughts, make sense of them, and connect with others. It brings me joy to know my words might offer comfort or inspiration to someone else.

7. Faith and prayer—without guilt

Sometimes I have no words. Sometimes I just say “Jesus, help.” And I believe that’s enough. Grace doesn’t demand performance. Grace sits with you in the hard place.

8. Saying “no,” guilt-free

This one took a long time. But I’ve learned that boundaries are a form of self-respect. I don’t need to explain or justify every “no.” Protecting my peace matters.

9. Being honest with a few safe people

I don’t share everything with everyone—but I do have a couple people I can text and say, “Hey, it’s a rough anxiety day.” And they don’t try to fix it. They just love me through it.

10. Celebrating progress—even the tiny kind

Did I get my cleaning done today? Cross everything off my to-do list? Open the curtains and let some sunshine in? That’s a win. It might sound small, but it’s not. Every little bit of forward motion counts. It all counts.

You're Not Alone Here

If you’re in the thick of it right now, I wish I could wrap you up in encouragement, hand you a cup of something warm, and remind you that you’re not the only one who feels like this.

You’re not weak—you’re strong in a quiet, courageous way. You’re not stuck—you’re growing in ways that might not be visible yet. You’re not behind—you’re walking your own path, one gentle step at a time.

I still have hard days. Sometimes whole hard weeks. But I’ve also built a life with space for joy, comfort, softness, and grace. One where I don’t have to “be over it” to be at peace.

If you need permission to rest, here it is.

If you need encouragement to keep going, here it is. If you need someone to tell you you’re doing okay, friend—you are.

You are safe. You are loved. You are not alone.And this corner of the internet? It’s here for you.

XO,Marie🫖💛