Stress and anxiety can have a huge impact on how we function. When we are stressed or feel panicked,
our physiological response is to increase the ‘stress hormones’ in the adrenal glands which are then
released into the bloodstream to help us cope with the stressful situation. If these remain elevated,
which is now so common in our fast-paced lives, then our balance of hormones and other bodily systems
can become disrupted. We can be left with symptoms such as headaches, dizziness or depression.

Something worth understanding about anxiety, is that it can develop due to us overestimating a situation
and underestimating our ability to cope with it. Anxious behaviour and thoughts can be very difficult to
overcome when we are in the thick of it, but there are a lot of things that can help.

If you do start feeling that overwhelming panicky feeling, you might like to try these simple techniques to
help you check in, to offer the body some attention and encourage a shift in the stress response.

  • Take a breath
  • Hydrate
  • Find the Calm

Take a breath
There is a lot to be said about taking a deep breath when we are feeling overwhelmed. By taking in a
good breath of oxygen we stimulate the vagus nerve, which is located at the base of the brain stem.
This nerve travels through the body and is connected to all the organs. Therefore, by taking a few deep
inhales through the nose and slowly exhaling out through the mouth, we essentially give ourselves an
internal hug, reminding the body that we no longer need the ‘stress response’. The body can then be
reassured that all is well, and we can be at ease.

Hydrate
If we are even a half litre dehydrated are body can start mirroring stress like symptoms. Our heart rate
can increase, our breathing quickens we can start experiencing disrupted sleep, our energy can become
low, we can feel irritable and even confused. Make time to sip water regularly throughout the day.
Having a water bottle which you can keep with you and refill so you can more easily gauge your water
intake can be really beneficial.

Find the calm
A point known as the calming or relaxation point, otherwise known as the solar plexus reflex, is a great
one to work on. To find the point, cup your hand like you are holding a drop of water and with the thumb
of your other hand go to the deepest point, you will feel a dip between two tendons. Press gently here
for a few moments, whilst closing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths. Repeat this on the other
hand. You can do this as and when you feel in need of a moment of calm throughout the day.

Reflexology is wonderfully relaxing and therefore fantastic at easing stress and anxiety. By working on
the feet, we provide stimulus to the reflexes corresponding to the relevant areas in the body. As we
work, we can give attention to the areas that require balancing to encourage the body to do its own
healing. With the grounding and sense of calmness a Reflexology treatment provides, the therapy is
very popular for people experiencing anxiety.

If you would like to know more about how Reflexology can help you manage your anxiety, please do get
in touch.