Breathe & Relax: Simple Ways to Reduce Stress & Anxiety

So many individuals suffer from anxiety in today's society.

What exactly is causing all of this angst?

According to Stress Management Consultant and author, Mary Heath, anxiety often stems from too much pressure and too much stress. If stress isn't managed, the body is in permanent fight-or-flight response and anxiety is the typical result.

In her 30 years of experience, Mary has found tried-and-true techniques that help ease stress and anxiety.

First is relaxation. You cannot feel stressed or anxious at the same time of feeling relaxed. 

Second, Mary teaches her clients to live in the moment and take one day at a time. Stress and anxiety generally comes from the past or the future. If you can focus on the here and now, even if you're feeling unpleasant symptoms, you can learn to manage your stress and anxiety.

Third, learn to get your breathing under control. Anxiety causes shallow and rapid breathing, especially if the anxiety grows into panic disorder/panic attack. Breathe in and out through the nose, deep from the belly. A great calming sequence is to breathe in for a count a seven seconds, then breathe out for a count of 11 seconds. This helps begin the relaxation response.

Mary also teaches yoga breathing techniques and even has an audio CD, Breathe & Relax, that helps people relax and keep calm.

Listen in as Mary joins Dr. Susanne to share more about her anxiety-reducing techniques, as well as simple ways you can learn to ease the stress and anxiety in your own life.