Diaphragmatic breathing is a type of deep breathing technique. A 2017 studyTrusted Source found that DB reduces cortisol levels in healthy adults.
To help relieve anxiety, people can practice the following technique:
- Lie flat on the back with the knees bent and the soles of the feet on the floor.
- Place one hand on the upper chest and the other on the stomach, below the ribcage.
- Breathe in slowly and deeply through the nose. Draw the breath down toward the stomach so that the hand on the stomach rises upward. Make sure that the hand on the chest stays still.
- Exhale slowly through pursed lips, drawing the belly button toward the floor. The hand on the stomach should return to its original position. The hand on the chest should remain still.
People with anxiety may be prone to putting off important tasks or projects to temporarily avoid stress.
However, procrastination often results in a last-minute rush to complete tasks before a deadline. This causes even greater stress and anxiety.
In fact, research shows that this type of stress may trigger a range of stress-related health problems.
Counseling can help a person learn ways to overcome challenges they face with procrastination.