Using Physical Relaxation Practices to be Less Anxious

One practice that we suggest because it can be done virtually anytime or anyplace is six-second centering. We have taught six-second centering to hundreds of leaders, and the vast majority of them find it to be an invaluable way to calm their nervous system so that they can think more clearly and creatively about the challenges and threats that are causing them to feel anxious in the first place.

Many other physical relaxation practices are also worth exploring and can be done before, during, or after times of heightened anxiety. But even more helpful may be preventative steps that help us remain calm so that our level of chronic anxiety never reaches too high a level.

Here is a sampling of the many preventive practices that leaders we have worked with have used to maintain a less anxious presence:

• Develop a repertoire of activities that help you to center yourself (e.g., exercise, yoga, meditation/mindfulness, etc.)
• Take care of the basics foundational to emotional bandwidth, like getting enough exercise, sleep, and eating properly.
• Focus on/get in touch with your strengths and who you are at your best
• Reconnect with the noble purpose of your life to gain perspective. Keep a reflective journal
• Find support systems that help you to relax and become more thoughtful (e.g., coaching, therapy, peer groups, mentors)
• Talk with a trusted colleague about what is raising your level of anxiety

A leader who is a less anxious presence embodies and communicates an inner calm in a way that helps others lower their anxiety. Doing so paves the way for clear thinking to prevail.