10 Ways of Decreasing Your Anxiety
Anxiety attacks are not uncommon especially in today’s fast paced lives. But don’t let them get the better of you; there are several simple ways to deal with them.
Do you experience palpitations before an interview? Shortness of breath when you think of incomplete tasks, or a tightness in your chest when exams are around the corner? Anxiety is an integral part of a competitive life. While we cannot avoid it entirely, we can definitely reduce it by following some simple tips:
- Breathe deeply: Studies show that taking deep breaths is a powerful tool to counter anxiety attacks. Deep breathing helps the body switch over from panic mode to a relaxed mode as it has a calming effect on the nervous system. The technique to be adopted is inhaling slowly till the count of four, filling in your belly and chest, holding your breath till a count of four and then slowly exhaling again to a count of four. Repeat the whole process several times and you will feel your anxiety melt away.
- Do not miss out on your beauty sleep: Missing out on sleep is a sure shot way of inviting anxiety. Lack of sleep impacts overall health. And if the issue is not dealt with sooner rather than later, it will soon turn into a vicious cycle. Inconsistent sleep leads to anxiety, which in turn will cause sleepless nights.
- Smile more often: Laughter is the definitely the best medicine to deal with anxiety. Mix with people who have a great sense of humor, watch funny videos or comedy flicks.
- Eat a balanced diet: Anxiety can play havoc with appetite. It makes you binge, crave or starve. Be sure to keep your meals balanced to be in control of anxiety levels.
- Meditate: Meditation is a great way to relax both the body and mind. Studies have shown that meditation also has a positive effect on low mood, anxiety and stress.
- Be a kid: Learn from the carefree ways of kids and be a kid yourself. Take time out to play, putting all that stressful workload on hold. You are bound to feel relaxed and refreshed.
- Focus: Many times, it is easy to deviate from the task at hand. You end up doing irrelevant things that leave your primary work incomplete. This will naturally make you anxious about your unfinished task. Prioritize and focus to avoid being in these situations.
- Be positive: Adopting a positive attitude can put a stop to anxious thoughts. You will be more confident and less anxious besides having a cheerful outlook.
- Make some lifestyle changes: Cut down on caffeine, soda and fats. Replace them with natural and therapeutic foods like chamomile or green tea and low-fat, nutrient-rich foods. Do not skip breakfast, drink at least eight glasses of water and exercise every day. And rejoice in the drastic reduction in your anxiety levels.
- Be debt free: Financial stress can throw your anxiety levels up like no other. Have a check on your EMIs and monthly expenditure. Do not hesitate to seek expert advice if need be.
