4 Simple Ways to Combat Anxiety
Anxiety can range from moderately irritating to downright paralyzing and can frequently strike at the most inconvenient times. Though some level of tension is reasonable considering all of the obligations that humans presently face, there are occasions when anxiety demands the help of a professional. Nadia Dhillon Counseling offers counseling in Richmond, VA for caring, confidential therapy when your pressure becomes too substantial for you to face alone. Still, it never hurts to possess some coping tools on hand to help resist needless distress.
Take a walk
The most beneficial thing to cope with anxiety is to walk away from it in some circumstances. Concentrating on the body instead of the mind can be prolific in inducing tranquility. Taking a 15-minute walk will aid in relaxing the mind and deliver peace from the disturbance that anxiety commands. Research has revealed that walking elevates the release of endorphins that stimulate relaxation and enhance our mood. Walking does not need to be done at a brisk pace to provide stress-relieving benefits. Even a stroll at a comfortable pace encourages relaxation.
Practice taking deep, focused breaths
Deep breathing exercises can help even out breathing and reduce heart rate, which should usher in calm and tranquillity in no time. By breathing slower and more deeply from your abdomen, you signal your nervous system to calm down. For example, try inhaling deeply for five counts and then exhaling for the same five counts. Doing this for 5 minutes will often loosen the hold that anxiety has taken on your mind and support clearer thinking and problem-solving.
Yoga poses
Yoga is another excellent technique to challenge the anxious mind. Yoga unites stretching and deep, even breaths to serve both the mind and the body. Many people turn to yoga when sensations of anxiety start to creep in or during periods of stress. Concentrating on both the breath and remaining present in each pose can ease negative mental chatter and boost your overall mood.
To get the most out of a yoga session, you should take note of the sensations that move throughout your body as it extends into each pose. Explore and encounter whatever emotions arise. If thoughts start to wander, gently bring the mind back to the mat and continue to practice.
Use aromatherapy
Breaking out the essential oils, candles, or incense can usually suppress the thoughts and emotions that anxiety evokes. Aromatherapy is believed to activate smell receptors, which send messages through the nervous system to the brain. In addition, the oils may stimulate specific areas of the brain, like the limbic system, which has a positive effect on emotions. Soothing scents like sandalwood, chamomile, and lavender are just some of the options possible to alleviate anxiousness and produce a sense of safety and wellbeing.
Anxiety is known for playing tricks on the brain, inducing heavy breathing, headaches, and dizziness.
Therefore, it is imperative to seek the help of an expert if anxiety starts to dominate work habits, home life, or physical activity. Nadia Dhillon Counseling is an excellent resource for counseling in Richmond, VA, if additional support is needed beyond simple coping skills.