Aging & Health A to Z
Anxiety
Lifestyle & Management
In addition to medications and therapy, the following may also help you relax and worry less:
Yoga or Meditation
Studies suggest that meditating or doing yoga on a regular basis may help you feel less anxious. Call your local Y, senior center or a nearby gym to find out if they offer yoga or meditation classes. Many do—and many gyms also offer membership discounts for seniors. You can find meditation and yoga videos, DVDs, CDs, and tapes at many libraries and bookstores.
Exercise
Regular exercise, especially something repetitive like walking or swimming laps, can also help ease anxiety. Make time for regular exercise. If you usually exercise outdoors, consider visiting the local Y, senior center, or a mall (for some mall walking) when the weather is bad.
Deep, Slow Breathing
When anxious, people tend to breathe shallowly or even hold their breath without realizing it. This makes them feel more anxious. Instead, breathe slowly and deeply. Your ribcage should expand, or stick out, each time you breath in. If you feel anxious, try to find a place where you can sit for a few minutes, close your eyes, and slowly breathe in and out deeply. There are also many CDs available that provide soothing relaxation and breathing instructions.
Updated: March 2012
Posted: March 2012