A neurologist's 'brain hack'to calm an anxiousmind
India, Nov. 20 -- Anxiety is something most of us experience at some point, whether it's before a big meeting, during stressful situations, or even for no obvious reason at all. When it hits, it can feel overwhelming, leaving your mind racing and your body tense. Dr Sid Warrier, a neurologist based in Mumbai, shares on Instagram (@thesidwarrier) practical tips and strategies on what to do when anxiety strikes.
"Think of it like a volume knob," Dr Warrier explains. "It can be at a low level, where it's almost like a whisper. It can be at a medium level, where you know it's there. Or it can be at a high level, where it's screaming." For low-level anxiety, simple techniques like deep breathing or stretching can help. "Even basic practices such as box breathing or slow exhalation can calm your nervous system."
For medium-level anxiety, he recommends grounding techniques. "Connect with your body's sensory system. Think of five things you can see, four things you can hear, three things you can touch, two things you can taste, and one thing you can smell. This brings you back to your body and helps you calm down."
Other strategies for medium-level include a quick body scan to check in with each part of your body or taking a walk. "The rhythmic action of walking can also help calm your nervous system," he adds.
High-level anxiety, such as during a panic attack, requires immediate intervention. "This is where you need a slight shock to reset your nervous system, either by splashing cold water on your face or keeping an ice cube in your mouth," says Dr Warrier....
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