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8 Natural Ways for Women 40+ to Ease Anxiety
Mar 06, 2025
If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in a cycle of anxiety, you know how overwhelming it can be. Your mind races, your body tenses, and it feels like there’s no way out. But what if I told you there’s a simple, powerful tool you can use to quickly shift from feeling anxious to feeling calm and in control? It’s something I like to call the Power Pose for Anxiety.
As someone who’s been through the ups and downs of managing anxiety—especially as someone with high-functioning anxiety myself—I’ve learned that sometimes, it’s the simplest techniques that make the biggest difference. The Power Pose isn’t just a physical movement; it’s a mind-body practice that helps you reset your nervous system, boost your confidence, and reclaim your sense of inner calm. It is just one of the 8 Natural Ways for Women 40+ to Ease Anxiety I share in this week's podcast!
Why Does the Power Pose Work?
The science behind this technique is rooted in the mind-body connection. When we’re anxious, our bodies often become tense, shallow breath becomes the norm, and we end up in a constant state of fight-or-flight. The Power Pose interrupts this by using specific postures that help activate the parasympathetic nervous system—the part of your body responsible for rest and relaxation.
When you stand tall in a Power Pose, with your feet grounded and your body open and expansive, it sends a signal to your brain that you’re safe and in control. It might feel a little awkward at first, but give it a try—just standing tall with your chest open, arms up or wide, and your gaze directed forward can make a huge difference in how you feel.
How to Use the Power Pose
- Find a quiet space where you can stand and take a deep breath.
- Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart and your shoulders back.
- Open your chest, lengthen your spine, and if you’re comfortable, raise your arms above your head or out to the side to create space and expand your energy.
- Breathe deeply, allowing your body to relax into the posture. Hold this pose for 1-2 minutes.
- Check in with yourself. Notice any shift in your energy or mood. You might feel more centered, calm, or grounded.
This is a great tool to use when you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious in the moment, especially when you’re about to head into a meeting or presentation, or simply when you need to reset your day.
More on Overcoming Anxiety with Mind-Body Tools
In this week’s episode of my podcast, Movement, Mind, Meaning: Mind & Body Tools to Thrive Beyond Anxiety and Depression, I dive deeper into the power of body-based techniques like the Power Pose, as well as other strategies to help you manage anxiety and thrive in life and work. I also discuss how combining movement and mindfulness can shift you from anxious to calm, so you can take back control of your mind and body.
Click here to listen to this week's episode: 8 Natural Ways for Women 40+ to Ease Anxiety