Tag Archives: reduce anxiety

Exercise & Trauma

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A few years ago, when I lived in Virginia we faced 9/11 with fear and uncertainty. I remember the absolute silence in the skies as all planes were grounded. I remember worrying about the friend of ours who worked at the Pentagon and the hours it took to find out whether he was still alive or not. I remember with cold, crystal clarity the sickening realization that my mother-in-law, sister-in-law and nephew were originally going to fly out that morning, but changed their flights to later in the day because my sister-in-law didn’t want to have to get up so … Continue reading →

Can Holding Hands with your Husband Reduce Anxiety?

Many women and men enjoy holding hands just as a form of affection, but most of us also realize that it can be a great source of comfort. However, a fairly new study indicates that when a woman holds her husband’s hand when confronted with a fearful or stressful situation, doing so can literally reduce her anxiety. It actually shows up on brain scans! It was a limited study, observing sixteen couples, conducted by Dr. James Coan this past December. Dr. Coan is a neuroscientist with the University of Virginia. His study is titled “Lending a Hand: Social Regulation of … Continue reading →

What does exercise do for you?

Regular exercise relaxes tense muscles, helps people sleep well and releases endorphins, adrenalin, serotonin and dopamine. Exercise not only improves physical well being, but it also has been found to: Reduce Stress Relieve Anxiety Enhance Self-Esteem Reduce Depression Strengthens the Heart Improves Lung Capacity Lowers Cholesterol Lowers Blood Pressure Supports Weight Loss Efforts Supports Weight Maintenance Boosts the Immune System The question should not be what does exercise do for you but why don’t I exercise more often? When you engage in physical exercise you are engaging in an activity that is beneficial to the whole concept of your mind, … Continue reading →

Redirecting Rage

Have you heard of the phrases? Going Postal Cheerleader Mom Soccer Dad These phrases describe behavior that is related to a mood disorder called IED (intermittent explosive disorder) and it seems that about 7.3% of American adults have. There are a number of studies being done in American psychiatry in order to diagnose, treat and help to avoid the dangerous consequences of such behavior. Most people who are susceptible to IED are prone to bouts of anxiety and depression as well as more likely to suffer from substance abuse. One of the signs of IED is a sudden, explosive anger … Continue reading →