Feeling Anxious? Science Says Do This

Anxiety isn’t just “all in your head”—it’s your amygdala, the part of your brain that acts like an overprotective security guard. It scans for danger and sometimes overreacts (like when you wave back at someone who wasn’t waving at you). The trick? Calm the alarm before it takes over.

Try these three quick resets:

1️⃣ Humming (Yes, Really). Humming activates the vagus nerve, which tells your nervous system to relax. Bonus: you’ll either feel calmer or start an impromptu karaoke session—win-win.
2️⃣ The cold splash. Dunk your face in cold water or hold an ice cube. It triggers the dive reflex, slowing your heart rate and telling your nervous system, “Chill. We’re not being chased.”
3️⃣ Shake it out. Ever notice animals literally shake off stress? Your body holds onto anxiety—jump, stretch, dance (badly), or shake it out like you just touched a spider. Your nervous system will thank you.

Anxiety is your brain trying to help—it just needs better instructions. Try one of these today and see what happens.

Which one are you testing first?