Denton County Living Well Magazine January/February 2020 | Page 43
HOW TO ALLEVIATE ANXIETY
Depending on whether you have an actual anxiety
disorder or the severity of the symptoms, anti-
anxiety or antidepressant medication may be the
solution. But there are other things you can do as
well to reduce anxiety and alleviate symptoms.
During periods of high stress, get plenty of rest.
This will help keep anxiety under control and
result in fewer or less severe symptoms.
Also, practice slow breathing. Alice Boyes Ph.D., in her
article, “Breathing Techniques for Anxiety,” says the key
is to focus only on breathing out. While concentrating
on slowly, steadily, and gently breathing out, allow the
tension to flow out of your body and relaxation to flow in.
Mindfulness meditation is another useful technique
for reducing anxiety according to a growing body
of research. You can start by meditating for just a
few minutes each day and gradually increase it to
more extended periods. For complete instructions,
visit www.mindful.org/mindfulness-how-to-do-it/
Get some exercise. It doesn’t have to be a lengthy,
hardcore workout. Even a 10-minute brisk walk
can provide several hours of anxiety relief,
according to psychologists, says the Anxiety
and Depression Association of America.
Finally, if your doctor has told you your symptoms
are anxiety-related, remind yourself of this
when symptoms strike. Try not to worry about
the symptoms, which only serves to exacerbate
anxiety and cause the symptoms to persist.
Kimberly Blaker is a freelance
lifestyle writer. She also writes
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Find her at www.kimberlyblaker.com