2b@1 hypnotherapy

1. Eat regularly
We lead such busy lives that it can be easy to postpone food intake or even forget about it completely. Low blood sugar levels can lead to feelings irritability and anxiousness. Keep topped up between well balanced main meals, bananas, nuts, berries are great to munch.

2. Talk to someone
Talking to someone can really help. Ideally a professional is your first port of call but family or friends can also be a great help.

3. Make time for yourself
Often, we go from one thing to the next without stopping or pausing. Allocating “Me Time” to do something on your own can have a positive effect on how you feel. It could be as little as 10 minutes to undertake meditation or mindfulness of something a little longer such as going for a walk

4. Avoid caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant and can activate your fight or flight response leading to increased feelings of anxiety. Switch to decaffeinated coffee or a green tea. Green tea contains L–theanine an amino acid known for promoting relaxation.

5. Walk it off
Anxiety produces adrenalin and exercise can help to reduce adrenalin. It needn’t be running or swimming the simple act of going for a walk can be very effective.

6. Write about it
Studies have shown that keeping a journal can be a healthy way of managing anxiety. Keeping a journal can help to organise your thought, gain control of your emotions and improve your mental health.

7. Take a soak
Having a bath incorporates other points mentioned above. Not only can a hot bath help relax muscles which in turn can relax the mind, but you also get some “you” time. If you practice mindfulness or meditation whilst soaking then wow, a triple anxiety reduction whammy.

8. Listen to music
Research has shown that listening to music can not only help to reduce anxiety but it can also reduce blood pressure and improve the quality of your sleep. Obviously, selecting the right music to suit your mood is important. Relaxing music to relax and something more up tempo to feel motivated and energetic.

9. Disconnect
We’re constantly being bombarded with information be it from TV’s, iPads, phones etc. It’s OK to unplug yourself now and again, it’ll all still be there when you decide to reconnect.

10. Talk to yourself
Using positive mantras and affirmations can help to manage your mood. Telling yourself to breath and be calm or acknowledging that anxious feelings will pass can really help.

11. Drink water
It’s important to remain hydrated. Dehydration can cause heart palpitations which in turn can lead to feelings of anxiety.

12. Steer clear of alcohol
Boo I hear you say, it’s Christmas. But if you’re struggling with high levels of anxiety it’s important to know serotonin levels in the brain can change on consumption of alcohol. Although you may feel better for a short period chances are, you’ll feel even worse once the alcohol wears off.