How to Calm Down in 10 Seconds

Somebody cuts you off while driving. You’re stuck in traffic. Your plane gets delayed. You are about to speak in public. You get in a fight and are about to blow a fuse. Any of these circumstances might cause your stress levels and anxiety to skyrocket, but luckily there is a relaxation trick that should be able to help you calm down.

Steve Pavilanis, author of A Life Less Anxious, is just like you. He struggles with anxiety, stress, and panic attacks. Steve learned a technique that works for him in 10 seconds, and he believes it can work for you too when you are on the verge of losing control.

Try this:

1) Take a deep breath in through your mouth and hold it in your lungs. 2) While holding your breath you’re going to tense every muscle in your body as tight as you can for 5-10 seconds.
3) Exhale slowly while simultaneously relaxing the tension you’ve built up in your muscles.

If you’re anything like Steve, you will be pleasantly surprised at the amount of stress and fear that has left your body immediately after doing this quick exercise. If the stress hasn’t entirely dissipated you can repeat this technique as many times as you want until you’re completely relaxed.

This relaxation tool is free, can be done anywhere, and doesn’t require medicine or a doctor’s visit to help you feel better. Pretty darn amazing, right? The next time you’re feeling particularly stressed or are on the cusp of panicking, give this a try!