Y’all ever been in a large crowd and suddenly felt like your vision was starting to blur on you, and you were finding it hard to breath? I have experienced that many times over the years, and I had no idea why that happened. I just came to expect it at football games, school events, or any other chaotic large event. I am coming to realize that these type situations can leave introvert feeling overstimulated and overwhelmed. You may even be a highly sensitive person (HSP)
What do you do if you find yourself in a situation where you are overstimulated or overwhelmed? I found six things you can do to center yourself and relax.
HOW TO CALM YOURSELF WHEN YOU ARE OVERWHELMED
- If possible, remove yourself from the overwhelming situation.
For me, being in the middle of a crowd of people with no sense of order is very overwhelming. If I can move to an area that is less crowded, I can feel myself relax instantly.
2. If you cannot remove yourself from the situation, then practice deep breathing techniques.
You will have to find what techniques work best for you. Box Breathing is a great one to use to calm you.
Box Breathing is deeply inhaling through your nose while counting to four, holding the breath for a count of four, and exhaling through the mouth for a count of four.
3. Get Outside
There is just something relaxing about the nature. Plus, studies have shown that getting some sun helps improve the mood and energy levels.
4. Read a book.
For me, this is my go to for relaxation. It is the way I escape, and a little bit of healthy escapism is good for the soul. Studies show that people that read as little as six minutes show slower heart rates, less muscle tension, and reduced stress levels.
5. Focus on your body
Take some time for a manicure or pedicure, go through your favorite skin care routine, makeup routine, or any other routine that may make your feel better about yourself.
6. Take a bath
Take a hot shower or bath is a great way to calm down. Soaking ourselves in warm water causes our brains to release serotonin (a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, appetite, sleep, and social functioning.)
CONCLUSION
All in all, you will have to find what works best for you to calm you when you are feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated. Just being aware of the triggers can be so helpful in preventing reaching these points. For me, just realizing that what I was experiencing and feeling others experienced also was a huge turning point. Remember to take time for self care and time to recharge especially during the holiday season!