A Trick to Tame Stress
Feel stressed? The tips below can help you handle your emotions when you are under stress. It takes practice, but it may help keep your body calmer.
Pick something to focus on. It may be an object in the room, calming music or a word such as peace, or a vision of something pleasant. This can help distract you from stress.
Be aware of your body. Relax your muscles. Start with the muscles in your head and work down to your toes.
Breathe. While sitting with your hands on your stomach, inhale slowly through your nose. Hold your breath for a second. Slowly breathe out through your mouth. Repeat the breathing 5 to 10 times or for several minutes, if you can.
Publication Source:
Medicaid/Winter 2008
Author:
Conaway, Brenda
Online Source:
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrationhttp://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/cmhs/managinganxiety/tips.asp
Online Source:
Anxiety Disorders Association of Americahttp://www.adaa.org/living-with-anxiety/managing-anxiety/tips
Online Source:
American Heart Associationhttp://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3007448
Online Source:
National Institute of Mental Healthhttp://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/anxiety-disorders/how-to-get-help-for-anxiety-disorders.shtml
Online Editor:
Haley, Charla
Online Medical Reviewer:
Nelson, Gail A., MS, APRN, BC
Online Medical Reviewer:
Walton, Olivia, MS, PA-C
Date Last Reviewed:
10/8/2011
Date Last Modified:
10/23/2011
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