In an era where stress is virtually the norm, and a mind free of it is the exception, it must come as no surprise that one in every four Indians are affected by anxiety disorders, and one in ten are depressed. Our ancestors might be quick to blame our times, and our lives, but they aren’t far from the truth: the levels of competition, the obligation to perform, the imposition of pressure from higher levels and from peers makes life a lot less easier to chart, work wise and lifestyle wise.
Easing out from a state of anxiety is not an automatic task: it isn’t about pressing a button and watching the change happen. However, there are some simple life-hacks that you need to be focusing on in a way that will give you the freedom to escape from the burdens of an anxious mind.
1. Indulge in a hobby. Often, when you do something you like – it need not be creative, as long as it is recreational – your mind is given a boost of feel good hormones which helps calm your nerves. Try to make this a regular part of your day or week, and ensure not to cut back on attending it no matter how tired or bored you may feel.

2. De-clutter your spaces. A cluttered space reflects a cluttered mind. You tend to feel bogged down by the energy of your space, so it is vital that your space allows you to breathe so your mind breathes comfortably, too.

3. Spend time with nature. There is really nothing better than being one with nature – especially since the peace you can derive from your surroundings gives you a clear mind.

4. Eat well. Nutritious food is a very important route to keeping your mind healthy. Ensure that you get enough vitamins and minerals – a lot of vitamin deficiencies can cause depression and deprivation of calmness in the mind.

5. Meditate. Meditation is a very comfortable way to calm your mind and to wind back on your thoughts. Worrying about the future is often one of the biggest factors that cause anxiety and depression. If you can dial back on it, you virtually cut back on anxiety. Meditate for a few minutes by yourself, or indulge in a guided meditation or some meditative music.

6. Do some breathing exercises. Breathing just through your chest won’t help much, as shallow breathing does not help you relax. Here is a simple and effective technique. Either sit or stand, relax your hands, shoulders and face. Begin by breathing in slowly through the nose and count till five. Your stomach needs to expand when you breathe in. Hold for two seconds and breathe out slowly as you count till five. Repeat this for about 15 to 20 minutes and see how you calm down.

Feature Image Courtesy : footnotescounseling.com

References:
http://www.anxietycoach.com/breathingexercise.html
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/fitness/Simple-breathing-exercises-to-reduce-your-anxiety/articleshow/20085735.cms