RELAXATION GUIDE

When someone feels anxious, their body reacts and enters a state called the fight-or-flight response. The body thinks it is in danger and prepares to either fight or run away.

You might feel

  • A “blank” mind
  • Increased heart rate
  • Sweating
  • Tense muscles
  • Rapid breathing

Unfortunately, what might cause anxiety in today’s world aren’t helped much by these physical reactions. We can learn techniques to calm the fight-or-flight response before the symptoms get too strong. If we practice these skills ahead of time, we are more ready when we need them.

Deep breathing

When you're relaxed, you take long, deep breaths. But when you're stressed or anxious, your breathing becomes quick and shallow...

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Imagery

Think about a place you feel safe and happy. If you focus enough on this place, it can trigger emotions you associate with that place - calming...

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Progressive music relaxation

When we feel stressed, our muscles tense up, which can cause stiffness or pain, especially in the back...

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