Even if you’re a seasoned public speaker, a big presentation might still bring on the telltale signs of anxiety. Increased heart rate, shaky hands, the whole shebang. Heck, you may even get nervous just looking at your to-do list (trust us, we’ve been there). Here, how to calm your nerves with five simple tricks. These tips will get you feeling cool and calm in five minutes or less.
How to Calm Your Nerves in 5 Minutes or Less
Instant stress relief, right this way
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Published Dec 22, 2016
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1. Single Nostril Breathing
This is an ancient technique developed by yogis to clear blocked energy channels. Sit comfortably with your back straight and shoulders back. Block your left nostril with your left forefinger and middle finger, breathing deeply into your right nostril. Close the right nostril and exhale through your left. Repeat for one to three minutes and feel the anxious energy slip away.
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2. Make A Cup Of Green Tea
Green tea contains an amino acid called L-Theanine, which can help decrease stress and anxiety. Plus, the warm cup of goodness also contains EGCG, a compound found in tea that increases calm feelings. Win-win.
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3. Count Backward
It sounds a bit kooky, but believe us when we say that it’s awfully hard to worry about your impending client meeting at work when you’re trying to remember if six comes before or after seven. Repeat as many times as necessary.
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4. Play Your Favorite Song
Get jazzed up every time you hear Beyoncé? Or are you more of a Frank Sinatra type of girl? Either way, putting on your favorite feel-good tune can put you in the mood you need to conquer the task at hand.
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5. Positive Affirmations
We’re serious. Repeating the thing you want to happen does wonders for your psyche. You can say it just above a whisper, so no one can hear you. Better yet, head to the bathroom and look yourself straight in the eye, repeating, “I am going to nail this interview.” You got this.
