I learn some of my best tricks from the clients I have worked with in the past. They’ll see something or try something new and, if it works, will pass it on to me. This type of feedback loop is extremely helpful and is a reason I’m constantly asking people to share their experiences with me. 

The 10 Second Anti-Anxiety Trick came to me in just this fashion. My former client passed along this gem from an article in July’s issue of Prevention magazine from two summers ago. It’s short and sweet…excuse the pun.

Here it goes. “The next time you’re feeling anxious, ditch the happy beach thoughts and rattle off as many ice cream flavors as you can. The exercise leverages a technique known as “grounding”, which can help bring your brain and your body back to the present,” says Vaile Wright of the American Psychological Association.

“It frees you from overwhelming feelings and unhealthy thoughts spinning in your head.” 

Why ice cream instead of, say, state capitals? The familiar dessert adds a level of comfort and nostalgia, researchers say.

Give it a shot and let me know how it works for you! Would another ‘list’ type exercise work better for you?