Tension and anxiety go hand in hand. We all suffer from it at some point in our lives, but it’s how we respond to it that is important. Try the following 5 ways to find instant calm when you feel anxious or can’t relax.
1. Take the information from your mind and put it onto paper
Sometimes when we go to bed, we suddenly find ourselves thinking about everything that happened during our day and also think about everything we need to do the following day.
The easiest way to eliminate these thought patterns is to write it down. By keeping notebook by your bed, you can write down everything that is worrying you and “remove it” from your mind.
2. Simply Relax
Switch off all electronics (computer, TV, phone etc). Electronics have a way of triggering our brains to stay alert and active. Pick up a book and read a few pages. Concentrate on the words on the pages.
3. Deep Breathing
I know, you’ve heard it all before, “Breathe through it”. But it’s true, deep breathing calms the senses. It calms your body, releases toxins, releases tension, relaxes the mind and also relieves pain.
Take the time to sit quietly, breathe in deeply and breathe out fully. Inhale through your nose, not your mouth. Inhale for four to five seconds and exhale for four to five seconds. When breathing, count the seconds in your mind. By focusing in the breath, your mind will begin to relax.
4. Positive Affirmations
Affirmations may not be for everyone but they are a way in which to bring positivity to an otherwise negative feeling. An affirmation is a statement you can say to yourself to help you feel better. Affirmations can be extremely powerful.
Words such as:
“I am cool, calm and collected”
“Inhale the calm, exhale the tension”
“Everything is great in my world”
“Life is wonderful”
Find an affirmation that is personal and meaningful to you.
5. Calming Visualisations
Picture yourself in your favourite place. Maybe it’s on the beach, soaking up the sunshine and listening to the waves. Perhaps it’s in the forest, listening to the birds. Perhaps it’s sitting by the river, watching the water flow slowly by. Whatever your favourite place, close your eyes and think of it. Immerse yourself there.
By seeing yourself in a place of tranquility you will find yourself feeling much better about things.
