From sitting in traffic, tension on the job or at home, work deadlines, health and money issues; stress and anxiety are almost hardwired into a Human’s daily modern existence. The detrimental effects of these two all-too-common emotional states are well documented, however, having some strategies on hand to manage and cope with them is a powerful ally everyone should have at their side towards better health, and increasing one’s happiness and motivation in their day to day life. So, the next time you feel your breath shortening, your heart rate increasing and the adrenaline starting to course through your veins, try one of these instant calming techniques:

• Ground yourself in the present moment - close your eyes and breathe deeply. Feel your feet on the ground and the air on your skin. A lot of anxiety is caused by the uncertainty of the future, so getting present in that particular moment is key to pushing through it. Allowing yourself to be in that present moment will allow yourself to asses the situation rationally and with far more calmness than simply reacting.

• Skip the caffeine – that same little rush that can give you the jitters in the morning, can send your nervous system into overdrive during times of stress. Instead of caffeine, instead opt for green tea or a calming herbal like Chamomile. We especially love the soothing feeling of the Aura Cacia Roman Chamomile Essential Oil on our hands.

• Try the child’s pose, which is a classic yoga posture. It is done by sitting down on your knees with the bolster (maybe some pillows or cushions) vertically in front of you. Gently spread the knees out to the sides and draw the bolster in towards the groin so the chest can rest on top of it. Bring the head to one side or rest with the forehead down on the bolster. The Child’s pose is restorative and nurturing, creating a feeling of safety, deeply soothing feelings of anxiety and vulnerability, as well as creates space in the low belly, low back and reproductive organs.

• Reach for lavender type  essential oils or products. These scents are beloved for their calming, uplifting properties. Dab them on your temples, inside your wrists, or rub between your palms and breathe deeply for several minutes. You can even prepare a Lavender bubble bath!

• Take a quick walk at anytime of the day or night.  About 20 minutes of movement and exercise can help ‘burn off’some stress and anxiety, thereby allowing you to get present in the moment and offer yourself fresh perspective on the situation.