Stress causes anxiety, according to "Fundamentals of Mental Health Nursing" by Kathy Neeb, and surrounds our daily lives. Anxiety can develop at any age and normally appears from time to time in a person's life, states the Mayo Clinic. However, if anxiety interferes with daily life, a generalized anxiety disorder can be present. Stressors, which are people or situations that cause anxiety, vary for every individual; therefore, ways to relieve anxiety differs for each person.
Relaxation Techniques
Relaxation techniques can reduce stress, and this decreases anxiety. Because individual stressors vary, different relaxation techniques work for different people. Focusing on deep-breathing techniques may work for some individuals, while simply listening to music works for others. Meditation or a clearing of the mind sometimes provides a way to relax. Taking a bath with special soaps or aromatherapy are both great ways to relax both the body and mind. Guided imagery, which is visualization of something calming, can work in conjunction with many other previously mentioned relaxation techniques.
Exercise
The Mayo Clinic recommends making daily exercise part of your routine because it helps reduce anxiety. Exercise is a way to burn off steam, and can also be helpful at relaxing the mind off of stressors. Taking a daily walk is also a way to clear the mind. Stretching can help relieve stress during the day by just relaxing the tension in your muscles.
Hobbies
Hobbies can also play a part in relieving anxiety. Reading can create an escape, almost like a vacation, to another place. Reading is also a form of meditation because you mind focuses on the plot of the story. Volunteering is another hobby that can help because it allows your brain to zero in on a new topic. Keeping a journal can also be quite helpful, as journals can be an outlet for your frustrations.
Diet
Eating healthy can relieve stress, according to the Mayo Clinic. A diet of fatty, sugary or processed foods can cause the body to work below peak level, which is why a healthy balanced diet is essential to overall health. The Mayo Clinic also recommends eating a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B. It is important to avoid alcohol and sedatives because they can worsen anxiety.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- "Fundamentals of Mental Health Nursing"; Kathy Neeb; 2006
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