In my own life and in the lives of those related to me (my anxious family), the single best tool for managing anxiety is RUNNING!!!!!!! Hands down, without a doubt, the most effective (for me and family). Running not only exhausts the body, alleviating tension in the muscles, but also forces the mind to focus on the breath (a key component of regulation and a central tenant of meditation).

My brother is a writer and editor for the Huffington Post, contributor to the LA Review of Books, and many other publications. He recently wrote a funny piece about exercising alone – http://www.huffingtonpost.com/nicholas-miriello/work-out-alone_b_4282236.html. My sister is a singer songwriter in LA, writing songs for top pop and indie artists. My youngest brother is a Chef in Los Angeles, constantly creating new entrées to be tasted and critiqued by food-savvy LA eaters. My mother is a chef and personal trainer in Florida, and a long-time restaurateur. And lastly, my father is a contractor/builder in Connecticut, building structures that must be pleasing aesthetically and stand the test of time (and east coast winters).
All of these lovely people are bright, hard working and ANXIOUS. All have made running/cycling/or regular fitness a part of their lives – not simply for physical health, but also and probably more directly for mental health.

There is plenty of research substantiating the claim that running/exercise reduces and helps manage anxiety. My intention in writing today is not to point to that research (although I’d be happy to send some great articles your way), but instead to share my personal #1 method for managing anxiety (and my wonderful families).