Anxiety sure is growing. The pandemic has brought its fair share, that’s for sure. There’s also been some major protests, an insurgency, a global refugee crisis (and more problems caused by climate change), and now, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
If you’re feeling a little stressed by any of it, you are certainly not alone.
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Managing anxiety seems to be a major factor for a growing number of people. If the global crises aren’t enough, making ends meet, paying bills, and finding the time to lead a fulfilling life can be major causes of anxiety.
The list of possible stressors never seems to get any shorter.
Thankfully, the list of treatment methods is growing too.
A new one on the scene is called a “breathing pillow.” It looks just like any other cushion, but when it is held close the body, it slowly pumps slow “breaths” to help mimic slow breathing – about 12-18 breaths per minute.
The product was tested on a group of students to see if it helped them cope with anxiety. Some said it was calming, soothing, or relaxing. Others said it “feels like breathing,” while others appeared to enjoy the sensation of holding it, comparing it to a cat.
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More testing is certainly required to see if this is a viable option for relieving anxiety and how well it may fare in relation to other practices like guided meditation, mindfulness, and more.
If you’re feeling anxious these days, there are several things you can try outside of waiting for a breathing pillow. You can try to hold a regular fuzzy pillow to see if that offers some relief. You also try getting more activity, engaging with friends and family, or finding a hobby. Talk therapy and mindfulness are also worthwhile.
It’s also worth considering the source of your anxiety. If it is coming from your social media news feed, it may be worth taking a break to put your mind at ease.
About eight years ago, Mat Lecompte had an epiphany. He’d been ignoring his health and suddenly realized he needed to do something about it. Since then, through hard work, determination and plenty of education, he has transformed his life. He’s changed his body composition by learning the ins and outs of nutrition, exercise, and fitness and wants to share his knowledge with you. Starting as a journalist over 10 years ago, Mat has not only honed his belief system and approach with practical experience, but he has also worked closely with nutritionists, dieticians, athletes, and fitness professionals. He embraces natural healing methods and believes that diet, exercise and willpower are the foundation of a healthy, happy, and drug-free existence.
