What is the Link Between Anxiety and Muscle Tension?
This video blog explores the connection between anxiety and muscle tension. When anxiety sets in, it activates our brain’s fight or flight response, causing our muscles to contract involuntarily. By becoming attuned to our bodies, we can effectively manage anxiety by bringing our focus back to the present moment. Techniques such as deep breathing and checking in with our surroundings to foster a sense of safety can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety.
We can use a somatic approach to manage anxiety, depression, or trauma, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with the body and understanding how these emotions manifest physically. By incorporating mindfulness exercises and seeking therapy, you can learn to address and reduce muscle tension and stress. If you tune into your physical experiences and recognize cues of safety, you can learn to manage any muscle tension due to anxiety.
Read more about managing anxiety here.
Are you interested in exploring your own anxiety in therapy? Reach out to myTherapyNYC to find out which of our therapists would be a good fit for you!
How do you manage muscle tension due to anxiety? Join the conversation in the comments below!
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2 comments
I love these tips for in-the-moment soothing!
I really appreciated your explanation of the evolutionary roots of the body’s physical reactions to anxiety along with the importance of focusing on the present moment to help manage the tension and discomfort we may be experiencing. Thanks, Maddie!