5, 4, 3, 2, 1: Countdown to make anxiety blast off

Everyone feels anxious now and then. But there are things you can do to minimize those feelings. Mayo Clinic Health System staff suggest trying the exercise below the next time your mind is stuck on the worry setting.

Sit quietly. Look around you and notice:

• 5 things you can see: Your hands, the sky, a plant on your colleague’s desk.
• 4 things you can physically feel: Your feet on the ground, a ball, your friend’s hand.
• 3 things you can hear: The wind blowing, children’s laughter, your breath.
• 2 things you can smell: Fresh-cut grass, coffee, soap.
• 1 thing you can taste: A mint, gum, the fresh air.

This exercise helps you shift your focus to your surroundings in the present moment and away from what is causing you to feel anxious. It can help interrupt unhealthy thought patterns.

For tips on boosting your brain’s happiness, watch this fun video from Mayo Clinic’s Complementary and Integrative Medicine program: