Progressive Muscle Relaxation is a good technique for easing anxiety.  It relaxes the mind and body by progressively tensing and relaxing muscle groups throughout the entire body.  This helps to release muscle tension and fosters mindfulness.

How do you do it?  Try these simple exercises.

Clenching Fists

1. Make a fist and hold it for 10 seconds, slowly release
2. Do this five more times
3. Pay attention to the differences between the tensed and relaxed states of hands
4. Practice this daily so that when you begin to experience stress/anxiety you will be more attuned to the physical cues

Tensing Back and/or Shoulders

1. Slowly pull shoulders back OR up to your ears as though you are shrugging, slowly release
2. Do this five more times
3. Pay attention to the differences between the tensed and relaxed states of back/shoulders
4. Practice this daily so that when you begin to experience stress/anxiety you will be more attuned to the physical cues

Try this video!

At Summit Performance Consulting LLC, we work with students and athletes to manage anxiety and improve performance.  Work with us to break the mental barriers that hold you back.