4. Alternate nostril breathing.
This technique can calm the nervous system by balancing the right and left sides of the brain:
“Rest your right ring finger and thumb on either side of your nostrils, lightly touching them. Take a big breath in and a big breath out, then close off the right nostril with your thumb and inhale through the left nostril for a four count. At the top of that breath, close off the left nostril with your ring finger, hold and retain for a count of four, and then release the right nostril and exhale for four. Repeat as many cycles as comfortable until relaxed ending with the left nostril.”
5. Stop being so anxious.
Easier said than done, there are many ways to reduce anxiety—find what’s best for you. Consider:
- Exercise
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Talk with a friend
- A hot bubble bath
- Help others
- Journal before bed, giving voice to whatever is on your mind
- Herbal remedies
6. Guided visualization.
This is similar to guided imagery but is more personal. Picture yourself in the most relaxing place and situation you can: on a beach, on a boat, at a spa. Open your senses to everything around you, sight, smell, touch, sound, taste. Be in that place and go to each part of it by turns. Let go of the day’s pressures and allow your mind to be where it is at peace—your body will follow.