How to Manage Butterflies in the Stomach

Having the feeling of butterflies in your stomach is actually a result of your stomach's sensitive nerves during an anxious or stressful situation. It may not be possible to avoid completely, especially when something unexpected comes up to cause the butterflies, but there are several ways to manage them and make them less apparent and uncomfortable. The important thing to keep in mind is that the feeling of butterflies is temporary and will go away in time.

Instructions

• 1

  Find a distraction for when you have nerves leading to butterflies, such as taking a walk, watching a movie or talking to a friend. Even little things such as listening to a calming song before a big presentation can relax you.

• 2

  Fuel your body the morning before you have what you know will be a nerve-wracking situation such as an oral report at school or a doctor's appointment. By eating a well-balanced meal and drinking plenty of water throughout the day, you will give your body energy, which may help soothe your mind.

• 3

  Focus on the positive aspects of a situation when you have butterflies, such as what you may accomplish when it is over. If you are extremely nervous about a job interview, do not think about the interview itself but the outcome of getting your dream job.

• 4

  Keep a journal to record your thoughts, feelings and worries daily. As you continue to write down your thoughts, it will help you cope with your anxious feelings, decreasing the amount of butterflies you get during high-stress situations. It helps to have a small journal with you at all times in the case of extreme nervousness when you are not at home.