Anxiety is a natural feeling that occurs whenever your body triggers the fight or flight response to escape from physical danger. Many factors cause anxiety such as job stress, family conflicts, social isolation and financial difficulties. According to neuroscientist Bruce McEwen at Rockefeller University in New York, stress causes neurons--brain cells--to shrink or grow, and the wear and tear on the body alters the nervous system. Anxiety that regularly builds up when situations are not life threatening can lead to heart disease and high blood pressure, states The American Heart Association. Many techniques can be used to calm your anxiety.
Exercise
Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and releases hormones. This stimulates your nervous system, and increases levels of beta-endorphin that positively affects the mood. Feelings of depression and anxiety decrease according to the American Heart Association. Any regular physical activity will benefit your medical and mental health. Find an activity you can really enjoy doing regularly, such as taking a brisk walk, jogging, or playing a sport.
Laughter
Laughter triggers many positive effects in the body. The American Heart Association states when you laugh your pulse rate quickens, blood circulation is stimulated, muscles are activated, and oxygen intake increases promoting relaxation. Think of laughter as a mild workout that offers some of the same advantages as exercising. Watch a funny movie, see a live stand up comic performance, or read a joke book.
Spoil Yourself
Indulge in simple pleasures to calm your anxieties. Pour yourself a glass of fine wine. Soak in a hot bubble bath. Book yourself a massage appointment. Anything that makes you feel calm will help relieve physical pain and mental stress. Make sure to take preventative measures of reducing anxiety by regularly spoiling yourself.
Connect With Somebody You Trust
Connecting with a trusted friend or family member and sharing your anxieties may help to give you insightful advice, and receive support and understanding. You may feel so overwhelmed, only worsening your anxiety. Clear your mind and release some of your anxiety by talking with somebody instead of keeping everything inside your head.
Ask For Help
Don't hesitate to ask people for help. Whether you are at home or at work, you should not have an overwhelming burden of tasks to complete alone. Business projects, chores, and errands have to get done one way or another. Simply reduce your anxiety by asking somebody for their help.
Take a Time Out
Turn off your phone, television, radio and any other appliance that can cause distraction. Tell anyone around you that you don't want to be interrupted for the next hour. Lie down or sit comfortably in a quiet room. Tell yourself that this is your time out, and you won't allow anything to cause you anxiety for the next hour. Relax your body, close your eyes, and shut off your mind.
