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Top Tips to Manage Anxiety and Panic Attacks

By Joy Healey

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Published: 29Apr2009
Word count: 628
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It's quite normal to feel anxious when handling certain situations such as making big decisions or sitting exams, but for some, anxiety attacks occur when handling situations that most of us would just take in our stride.

These can cause so much distress that sufferers cannot live a normal life

Of course there are many drugs and prescription medications that your doctor will be able to provide, but many people prefer natural methods of coping with anxiety attacks.

Here are some top tips for coping with panic and anxiety attacks:

* Take slow deep breaths through your nose, not through the mouth. The previous practice of re-breathing into a paper bag has been hailed as dangerous because it may lead to oxygen starvation.

* Try this exercise: stand near to a wall, put your hand on it and hold your breath, then push as hard a possible, keeping your breath held for as long as possible. This tightens your muscles and can reduce anxiety.

* Most people feel less anxious in the outdoors. Listening to the birds, watching the sea, a river, or even just a pond or a tropical fish tank can be very soothing. A walk in a park or garden smelling the flowers can help relaxation and fight stress. You may even find that a screen-saver using a natural scene is helpful.

* Make a list of your problems, then crumple the paper into a ball and either stand on it, or burn it.

* Yoga is a great stress-buster, which can be practiced by anyone. It will improve mental and physical ability, and boost self-confidence. But you need to go to a class for maximum benefit and to learn the correct techniques.

* Is a poor diet contributing to your anxiety attacks? Caffeine, sugar and diet sodas all contribute to raised blood sugar. Also, those who are overweight are more prone to anxiety attacks, so reduce your intake of saturated fats.

* Find a hobby you enjoy. If it's creative that's even better. Immersing yourself in a hobby can distract you from the worries of every day life. Spend time alone and at peace.

* Relax with a good film or a good book. Either can transport you away from the stresses of the world.

* Aromatherapy involves inhaling essential oils, or in some cases applying them direct to the skin. You can also add essential oils to the bath and enjoy inhaling them while you have a relaxing bath. Lavender is highly recommended for relaxation and is one of the only essential oils that it's safe to apply to the skin without diluting. While aromatherapy can be practiced as a self-help therapy, you would be wise to consult a qualified practitioner in the first instance to produce a blend specifically for you.

* Acupuncture targets specific points in the body to promote healing, and has been proven beneficial for anxiety disorders. Unlike aromatherapy this isn't a self-help technique as you will need to consult a licensed practitioner. Be sure this person is registered with a reputable professional body and will observe good hygiene practices.

* Talking things over with someone trustworthy may bring closure to unresolved worries and resentments. But be careful who you talk to - ideally a completely disinterested third-party, or at least someone completely divorced from the situation that's causing you anxiety. Counselors or Cognitive Behavioral Therapists are highly recommended to help reduce the occurrence of panic attacks.

* There are many herbal remedies known to be beneficial for anxiety and panic. Consult a qualified herbalist - this is not an area where self-help is advised.

Before implementing any change in physical activity or diet, check it out with your medical doctor. If he or she is unsympathetic to anything other than medication, consider getting a second opinion preferably from an integrative medicine physician.

Joy Healey is a qualified complementary therapist, specializing in nutrition and stress. Visit her website for more information: http://www.anxietyreliefnaturally.com/

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