Yes, you can control your nerves. Controlling nervousness involves a combination of trying different techniques and committing to lifestyle changes. This isn't about eliminating nerves entirely—a bit of nervousness can even be helpful—but about managing them so they don't overwhelm you.
Techniques to Manage Nervousness
Several techniques can help you manage nerves, including:
- Deep breathing exercises: Slow, deep breaths can lower your heart rate and reduce feelings of anxiety. Many resources, such as the Calm app blog (https://blog.calm.com/blog/how-to-calm-nerves), offer guided exercises.
- Mindfulness and meditation: Practicing mindfulness helps you focus on the present moment, reducing worry about the future. Meditation can further calm your mind and body.
- Physical exercise: Regular physical activity helps manage stress levels and improve overall well-being.
- Preparation: Being prepared for a situation can significantly reduce your nervousness. This is especially true for performance-based anxiety, as noted by Nemours (https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/nerves.html).
- Calming music: Listening to soothing music can have a relaxing effect.
- Spending time in nature: Surrounding yourself with nature can calm your thoughts and relieve anxiety.
Lifestyle Changes for Long-Term Nervousness Management
For persistent or significant nervousness, lifestyle changes can be crucial:
- Address underlying anxiety: If your nervousness is a symptom of an anxiety disorder like Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), professional help is essential (https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/generalized-anxiety-disorder-gad). Treatment options include therapy and medication.
- Healthy diet and sleep: A balanced diet and sufficient sleep are fundamental for overall well-being and stress management.
- Social support: Talking about your feelings with friends, family, or a therapist can provide emotional support and coping strategies. The NHS emphasizes the importance of this (https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/feelings-and-symptoms/anxiety-fear-panic/).
Remember, nervousness is a normal human experience. By employing these techniques and making positive lifestyle changes, you can effectively manage your nerves and improve your overall well-being.
