How to Calm Down Quickly: Simple and Effective Ways
Our lives are complex and often unpredictable. A difficult conversation at work, a family dispute, or a sudden emergency can easily throw us off balance. As a psychologist, I often see people trying to "talk" themselves into calming down. However, the autonomic nervous system does not understand logic or arguments during acute stress; it responds to physiological actions.
When we face a threat, our breathing rhythm is disrupted, and muscles tense up involuntarily. To return to a rational state, we need techniques that work through the body. Here are 5 proven express methods.
1. The "4-7-8" Method (Breathing)
This is the "gold standard" for panic and high anxiety. It helps switch the nervous system from a stressful state to relaxation.
How to do it (76 seconds):
- Sit up straight. Press the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth, just behind your upper teeth.
- Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of 4.
- Hold your breath for a count of 7.
- Exhale forcefully through your mouth (making a whooshing sound) for a count of 8.
- Repeat the cycle 4 times.
2. Power Posing
Your body language shapes who you are. When we feel powerless, we close up—wrapping our arms around ourselves, making ourselves smaller. These are "low-power poses" that can increase cortisol (stress hormone) levels.
What to do:
Find a private space and stand in a "high-power pose" for 2 minutes. This could be the "Victory" pose (arms up in a V) or the "Wonder Woman/Superman" pose (hands on hips). This simple action can lower cortisol and boost confidence before a stressful event like an interview or speech.
3. Yawning
Surprisingly, forced yawning is very effective for regaining composure. Yawning cools the brain and reduces stress. Additionally, if done during a conflict, it can confuse an aggressor, signaling that you are not intimidated.
4. Blue Background & Center of Peace
- Visual Anchor: Look at something blue. This color is traditionally associated with peace and relaxation.
- Inner Sanctuary: Visualize a "Center of Peace" inside yourself—a safe, cozy room where you can retreat mentally for a few seconds to regain balance before reacting.
5. Systemic Approach: MriyaRun
Quick fixes are essential, but long-term stress management requires consistent mental hygiene.
Through my project MriyaRun, I have created tools to help process emotions constructively:
- Gratitude and Emotion Workbooks: These help transform chaotic thoughts into structured reflection.
- Boundaries: Stress often arises where we fail to say "no." My specialized diaries are designed to help you establish and maintain healthy personal boundaries.
By using these tools regularly, you build psychological resilience. For more professional insights, feel free to visit my personal website at telushko-psy.com.