If you're feeling overwhelmed by constant anxiety, or even just bothered by occasional bouts of stress, there are some lifestyle and health habits you can try before (or in addition to) medication or psychotherapy. While these techniques may not be equally effective for everyone, they can help and are certainly worth a try. Just remember that the key to effective anxiety relief is consistency, and it may take some time before you see an improvement.
Anxiety Relief Tips
- 1. Talk about your anxieties with a friend, family member, or anyone you feel comfortable sharing with. Talking through your anxieties can help you look at them more rationally, and just giving voice to worries often robs them of some of their power.
- 2. Exercise regularly, doing whatever type of exercise you prefer. Yoga and tai chi may be particularly calming for some people, but others may prefer to run, lift weights, or just take a walk.
- 3. Get a massage, take a spa day, or do something relaxing that is just for you with no other obligations.
- 4. Learn how to do techniques like deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation and practice them regularly.
- 5. Make a plan to address the things that are making you anxious. Knowing what you are going to do (or what you will do if something you fear comes to pass) will put you back in control.
