dealing with anxiety tip #2

So the big test is tomorrow and I have another anxiety tip for you:

2. Anxiety is largely a physical experience. When people feel anxious they usually have a number of physical symptoms such as rapid breathing, heart palpitations, sweaty palms, butterflies in the tummy, muscle tension... you get the idea. This is because of the chemicals and hormones that occur in your body. Also, it seems that the body "remembers" when you get anxious about something so it is prone to experience the same feelings again the next time the anxiety provoking situation occurs. Lucky you, right? However, there are things you can do to change your physical state, thus changing your anxiety level.

A) Deep Abdominal Breathing - most people begin to breathe shallowly when stressed increasing anxiety. Instead, focus on taking deep breaths in out. Count to five if you need to. Try and get your stomach to move without moving your chest much and you'll know it's the deep breath you want.

B) Progressive Relaxation - your muscles usually get all tense when you are anxious and if you are like me your blood feels "racy". So taking the time to relax those muscles is one of the best things you can do! Click for how it works or how to do it. Trust me, it's quick, easy and feels GOOD.