subject: Anxiety Attacks! Help For Regaining Your Life [print this page] I assume if you are reading this that you or someone you know suffers from anxiety attacks. Help may seem elusive. You don't want to resort to medications but rather prefer natural means to help you gain control over your panic or anxiety attacks. The good news is that there is much you can do for yourself if you are willing to be honest, change a few habits and learn a few simple techniques.
In this article I simply want to address a few very basic things that will go along way in helping you control anxiety and panic. They may seem overly simple at first, but until you've laid a good foundation, it will near impossible for you to control anxiety attacks. Help comes first in being honest about imbalances and seeking to correct them.
So here is a short checklist for getting started:
Get Enough Exercise: You don't have to become a triathlon athlete. Even moderate exercise can have amazing benefits in making you feel better physically, emotionally and mentally. Just getting out for a relaxing walk can work wonders for most people. Find something that you both enjoy and works your body. Then get out and do it.
Get Enough Sleep: We live in a world were being sleep deprived is an all too common condition. Recognize that unless you are getting the rest you need, the rest of your life suffers. In regard to panic and anxiety, lack of sleep weakens your ability to respond in healthy ways. Learn good sleep habits and make them an important part of you daily routines.
Learn Conscious or Deliberate Relaxation: What I mean by this is that you develop the awareness of a real need to let go. You say to yourself,"Now is time to leave my work (or troubles) behind and get back to the me I enjoy." The activity can be anything. Mediation, walking, practiced slow breathing, watching a relaxing movie, visiting with people you enjoy and find relaxing. The point is you are aware and deliberately letting go of what troubles you.
Beneficial Distraction: Beneficial distraction is simply finding enjoyable activities you can do on a regular basis that help you to feel good, relaxed and balanced. They take your mind off your troubles or stress. It's important to incorporate these as a part of your regular activities.
Limit Stimulants and Alcohol: While a good strong coffee in the morning or a glass of wine in the evening can be a part of a healthy lifestyle, relying on these to make it through the day are a sign of underlying imbalances that need to be addressed. Stimulants (like caffeine) can often weaken your resistance to anxiety attacks. Help yourself by taking care of yourself.
While these practices alone may be enough for some people, for most learning to manage anxiety attacks involves a deeper exploration. Know that there are many natural and safe tools available to you. The reality is that you simply begin to feel better in practicing them.
