Some of this stuff might sound small or even silly, but it’s worth a
try, right? There’s no one solution for everyone, find what works for
you.
Breathe
Yes, you read that right. If you’re
feeling anxious, your breathing is probably shallower than normal. Take a
few breaths, trying to breathe a little more deeply each time.
Or you
might use something like the 4,5,6 breathing technique to find some
space and give yourself a chance to calm down. It’s got nothing to do
with 90's pop group Steps, we promise. It’s all about breathing in for 4 seconds, holding for 5 seconds, and then, you guessed it, exhaling for 6 seconds. It may feel a little forced the first few times you try, but it’s worth staying with it.
Focus on the here and now (AKA get out of your head)
Pause
a moment. What can you see? Hear? Smell? Focus on this moment and your
immediate surroundings. Give yourself a moment to feel a bit more you.
Tense your muscles
You’re
probably thinking you already are, but consciously tensing your muscles
and then releasing them can help us to feel a little more in control.
Tense each muscle separately. You don’t even have to know what they’re
called. Tense, then release, tense then release from head to toe.
What would you say to a mate?
Imagine
your best mate was feeling how you’re feeling now. What would you say
to them? Yup, it’s pretty certain you’d be understanding, supportive and
kind. So don’t be too hard on yourself. Show yourself the same care you
might show someone else.