Your Surroundings and People

Why does squeezing my muscles help me feel less anxious?

When you feel anxious, your whole body can get tense without you even noticing. By purposely squeezing a muscle group and then letting it go, you are showing your body the direct difference between feeling tight and feeling loose. This physical action sends a clear signal to your brain that it’s safe to relax. It’s like you’re giving your body a direct command to switch from “tense and worried” to “calm and soft.“ It’s a simple trick that forces your body to pay attention to the feeling of letting go.

What if I need my phone for work or school?

This isn’t about quitting your phone completely. It’s about creating small, protected spaces without it. During a work or school task, try closing all your extra tabs and social media apps. When you take a lunch break, leave your phone at your desk. After school or work, you could charge your phone in the kitchen overnight instead of your bedroom. These small habits build fences around your screen time.

What if I notice something that feels bad or uncomfortable?

That’s completely okay and actually the whole point! The goal isn’t to feel perfect; it’s to know what’s happening. If you notice a tight muscle or a nervous stomach, just acknowledge it without getting upset. You can say to yourself, “Okay, my neck is really tight right now.“ Just naming it can sometimes make it feel a little less powerful. Remember, you are not your feelings. You are the person noticing them, and that gives you back a sense of control.

How long does it take for this to start working?

You can start feeling a little better after just one session, which might only take about 5 to 10 minutes. The real magic happens when you make it a regular habit, just like brushing your teeth. Doing this simple exercise a few times a week teaches your body how to find that relaxed feeling more easily. The more you practice, the quicker your body will learn to let go of tension when you notice you’re starting to feel anxious during your day.

Why should I even write my feelings down?

Writing your feelings down is like taking a messy, tangled knot out of your brain and placing it on paper. When your worries are just swirling in your head, they can feel huge and overwhelming. Seeing them written down makes them feel more manageable. It’s a simple way to create some space between you and your anxiety, which can help you feel calmer and more in control almost instantly.