How Relaxation Techniques Help My Anxiety

I've found that relaxation techniques can help my anxiety. During times of intense anxiety, I regularly experience a racing heart, worried thoughts, and quick breathing. It can leave me feeling helpless and out of control. That's why I find easy relaxation techniques to be so beneficial in helping me regain a sense of calm. More importantly, realizing that I can control my anxiety by using specific techniques has empowered me to feel more capable of managing my worries long-term. Learn more about how I help my anxiety with relaxation techniques.

3 Relaxation Techniques to Help Anxiety

Below are three relaxation strategies I use to cope with anxious thoughts.

1. Doing deep breathing exercises -- When I feel anxious, breathing slowly in and out helps calm my nerves. It slows my heart rate and makes me feel like I have control over my body. Sometimes, lying down and placing my hand on my diaphragm helps me concentrate on my breath, encouraging mindfulness of the present moment. By regulating my breathing, I've learned to slow down mentally and focus on what I can control.
2. Grounding myself -- By observing my surroundings, I am able to shift my focus from my anxiety and return to the present. For instance, I enjoy connecting with my immediate environment by identifying items I can see and feel. By focusing on the book beside me or a painting on the wall, I can redirect my attention in a healthy way. This technique temporarily eliminates my worrisome thoughts, providing a sense of stability and reducing the overall intensity of my anxiety. 
3. Visualizing peaceful images -- Breaking the cycle of anxious thoughts is tough, but I find that visualizing peaceful scenes and scenarios really helps me find some calm. I often picture myself in my favorite places, like a beautiful beach or watching a sunset. By immersing myself in these mental images and focusing on the positive feelings they bring, I can steer clear of negative thoughts and embrace more uplifting ones. 

How I Practice Anxiety-Reducing Relaxation Techniques Daily

To stay consistent with the relaxation techniques that help anxiety, I like to schedule dedicated relaxation time, even during periods when my anxiety isn't overwhelming. For example, I set aside about 10 minutes each day, typically before bed, to focus on my breathing and visualize positive imagery. The best part about these techniques is that they can be done virtually anywhere, at any time. 

By engaging in these practices, I have learned to stop my anxious thoughts before they escalate, which reduces their impact on my daily life. This proactive approach enables me to navigate stress more effectively and maintain a healthier mindset overall.

More on Relaxation Techniques to Help with Anxiety

If you're dealing with anxious thoughts, take a look at the video below, where I discuss the positive effects of one particular relaxation technique on my anxiety. 

What are some of the relaxation methods you have used to manage your anxiety? I would like to hear your thoughts on this topic below.