How can i relax and lessen anxiety?

Manage anxiety: By learning relaxation skills & learning to modify the thoughts, perceptions & beliefs that trigger your anxiety. Learning to calm your body & your mind is the key. You can learn these skills on your own, but having a mental health professional "coach" you is quicker & more effective. Biofeedback helps learn relaxation skills (www.Bcia.Org & www.Aapb.Org). Entrenched anxiety may require meds.

Deep breathing: Exercise has been shown to have immediate and long term benefits of reducing overall anxiety and stress. Yoga and tai chi are particularly beneficial in improving mind body connection and add a meditative component. Diaphragmatic breathing can help in the immediate to relax. Progressive muscle relaxation can also help reduce tension. Psychotherapy is a great way to learn coping strategies.