Teach your body to recognise when it is relaxed and when tension is building up. By becoming aware of the tension levels in your body throughout the day you will learn to relax automatically. This is vital if you find that by the end of the day you have a headache, your shoulders are pulled up near your ears, or your hands or feet are clenched. Yoga and relaxation classes may help you with this, aswell as the many relaxation tapes and books available in shops and libraries. Learn to breathe properly.
Many people breathe shallowly from their chest rather that deeply from their abdomen.
Shallow breathing leads to breathlessness and a build up of anxiety. By learning to breathe deeply you will be able to slow your breathing down whenever you are getting stressed or anxious. The following exercise will show you how to do this. Become aware of your breathing and begin to feel calm. Put your hands on your stomach.