Most of us experience stress or anxiety in our daily lives. As a matter of fact, a whopping 72 percent of folks admit that their everyday stress and anxiety interfere with their lives at least moderately. Many people have resorted to taking a prescription medication to manage their stress, nervousness, or lack of sleep that can occur due to a hectic day.
According to researchers, women typically turn to food and tend to discuss what’s bothering them with friends or family. On the other hand, men use sex or illicit drugs to manage what is stressing them out. For older adults, stress can be too much to bear in many cases. Many seniors have to deal with the loss of a spouse, friends, and family. Many are living alone, and the feeling of isolation can create stress, anxiety, and panic. Not being able to do simple tasks can be stressful for someone older, and dealing with medical conditions that are disabling.
Stress, anxiety, and panic can be crippling for many. There is, however, a calming breathing exercise that can help you feel centered again, and doing it regularly as part of your daily routine, will give you the most benefit.
- Let your breath flow as deep down into your belly as is comfortable, without forcing it.
- Try breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth.
- Breathe in gently and regularly. Some people find it helpful to count steadily from 1 to 5. You may not be able to reach five at first.
- Then, without pausing or holding your breath, let it flow out gently, counting from 1 to 5 again if you find this helpful.
- Keep doing this for 3 to 5 minutes.