Ease Anxiety with a Walk Through Old Town Pasadena, CA
Ways to reduce anxiety while out-and-about in Old Town Pasadena
There’s no denying that Pasadena, CA is one charming neighborhood. With its historic homes, tree-lined streets, shopping, nightlife, and green spaces, Pasadena is the perfect spot to unwind. As a therapist in Pasadena, I enjoy exploring various spots around town as well as seeking new ways to help my clients lessen symptoms of anxiety and depression.
When we think of reducing anxiety and stress, most of us probably think of things like yoga and meditation. And while these are incredibly helpful tools for managing stress and anxiety, there are a multitude of ways to mitigate anxiety, even when life gets busy. It can be helpful to know a few ways to reduce anxiety even when out-and-about, running errands, or spending time with loved ones.
Keep in mind that what works for one person may not work well for another. So try some different approaches and check in with yourself about what feels right for you.
Read on for 5 ways to lessen anxiety while exploring Old Town Pasadena
Take a moment to breathe in Central Park
Stop by Pasadena’s own Central Park, just south of Colorado Boulevard to take a walk, kick a soccer ball with a friend, or just lounge in the grass (bonus: the dog-watching is pretty great here too). There’s even a playground area for the little ones and picnic tables for eating your lunch al fresco.
Research shows that regularly spending just 20-30 minutes in nature reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, reduces risk for heart disease, and reduces the stress hormone cortisol.
Tap into creativity at Blick Art Materials
Creating art through drawing, painting, doodling, coloring, and various other creative outlets has been shown to reduce anxiety, lift mood, and assist in processing emotions. And you don’t need to spend lots of money or be an artist to benefit. The act of being immersed in a simple creative project, by using a pen and paper or coloring book (great ones for adults here and here) has been shown to significantly reduce stress.
Seek out connection at Paper Source
Buy a card to send to a loved one you haven’t seen in a while. Expressing gratitude, excitement for an upcoming reunion, condolences, or even “I saw this and thought of you” is a thoughtful (and affordable) way to stay connected and show the people in your life how much they mean to you. Who doesn’t love a surprise note in the mail? Further, if you’re not looking to spend money on a card, you can browse and get inspired to make your own homemade card.
Pick up a journal for yourself. Getting your worries down on paper can be an effective way to reduce anxiety, especially at bedtime.
Check out a fun sensory fidget toy, which for some may help to increase focus and relieve stress and anxiety.
Take a moment for tea
It’s safe to say there is no shortage of amazing coffee shops around Pasadena. In Old Town Pasadena you’ll find Bluebottle Coffee, Intelligentsia Coffee, Copa Vida, Coffee and Plants, Alfred, and more.
While for many, coffee and sugary snacks tend to spike anxiety symptoms, teas like green tea, chamomile, peppermint, and lavender have been known to have a soothing and stress-reducing effect. Become more mindful as you sip, noticing the smell, taste, temperature, and sensation of drinking your beverage.
*Note: What works for some may not work well for others. Be sure to consult with your doctor or nutritionist before incorporating any new herbal products into your routine.
Browse at Vroman’s Bookstore
Now, this may not technically be in Old Town, Pasadena, but just head one mile east on Colorado Boulevard and you’ll find a true gem of a bookstore.
Founded in 1894, Vroman’s is Southern California’s oldest and largest independent bookstore. Browse books of every variety, gifts, journals, candles, kitchenware, children’s books, and greeting cards. It even boasts a coffee shop, newsstand, and wine/snack bar.
Reading has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression and boost mood by fostering feelings of empathy, connection, hopefulness. Whether you like fiction, self-help, or autobiographies, reading lessens feelings of isolation and helps us to remember that we are not alone.
Side note: Another charming thing about Pasadena?—the Little Free Libraries you’ll find around town. They resemble colorful wooden birdhouses and hold a collection of pre-loved reads for anyone to enjoy. Take a peak down Bonham Alley in Old Town Pasadena for one.
If you’re struggling and interested in therapy for anxiety, reach out to book a consult or session.
Reach out
If you’re curious about therapy and looking to get started, reach out. Let’s talk about how therapy can help.
When you’re ready, schedule a free consult call. I’d love to talk with you about how I work and answer any questions you may have. If we’re not a good fit, I’m happy to offer you referrals to other therapists in the area so you can find the best therapist for your needs.
Other services offered:
As a therapist serving Pasadena, CA and Los Angeles, CA, I offer therapy services in person and online to address a variety of goals and issues. Some of the services I offer include anxiety therapy, depression therapy, counseling for couples, teen therapy, therapy for relationship issues, therapy for life transitions, self-esteem and empowerment, career-related stress and stress management, family issues, codependency, and more. To read more, visit my blog, home page, services page, rates & FAQ, press & reviews, or approach & about me page.
**I am not affiliated with any of the above companies or the city of Pasadena, CA and am not being sponsored to share the above links. I’ve compiled this list based on my own experience and the research linked.