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Ways to Relax When Nervous

Are you nervous speaking in front of a group of people? Or do you sweat profusely just thinking about the impending job interview? Anxiety, worry or uncertainty over difficult circumstances or situations can cause nervous tensions. Nervousness can result in restlessness, fear, stress, dread, hopelessness and even depression. However, there are some ways to overcome these negative emotions to help you relax and stay calm.

  1. Breathing

    • Nervous tension can cause faster breathing or hyperventilation which can trigger off a series of symptoms: dizziness, lightheadedness, breathlessness, tingly hands and feet or sweaty palms. To ease nervousness, focus your attention on regulating your breathing since breathing can influence your body, mind and moods. Take deep breaths, breathing from the diaphragm. Place your hand on your belly, if necessary, to feel the rhythm of the breathing. Focus your attention on the mere act of breathing to help you stay calm.

    Repeat a Mantra

    • There is a reason why monks chant and some people use the rosary religiously --- the repetition of certain syllables, words or phrases helps the mind focus and overcome negative mental states. In the same way, you can use an inspirational quote, a phrase or some calm-inducing sayings to relax your nervousness. Simply repeat your mantra silently in your mind, allowing it to relax and grasp the empowering truth of the mantra. Examples of mantras include: "I can do it," "Worry often gives a small thing a big shadow," or "A coward gets scared and quits. A hero gets scared, but still goes on."

    Uncover the Cause of Nervousness

    • Instead of allowing the nervous tension to control your life and affect your emotional and mental state, allow yourself to examine and determine the cause of the nervousness. Why am I so nervous? What is making me nervous? Is there a good reason to be nervous? Can I take some positive steps to allay my nervousness? Taking time to uncover the root of your nervousness can help put things in a balanced perspective, and help you deal with your nervousness in a more constructive way.

    Physical Activity

    • If you're prone to nervous attacks, consider exercise. Doctors agree that acts of exercise help to release endorphins, the feel-good chemicals, that can ease nervous tension and stress. The physical act of exercising can also help to clear your mind and boosts physical and mental energy to achieve a sense of well-being. Thirty minutes of exercise a day is highly recommended, though a walk through the park or playing with your children also does the job.

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