Social anxiety disorder is one wherein the sufferer has great trouble relaxing, even at the mere thought of having any type of social contact. This is serious, since even a modicum of social interaction is inevitable. As such, they will need to learn some relaxation techniques for anxiety if they are going to be able to cope. We discuss below, two such techniques that can help these persons to relax.

There is deep controlled breathing that is popular amongst therapists due to the fact that it is simple to do plus it has a tranquil effect on both the mind and the body and these effects are felt almost immediately. The breathing that is practiced with this technique is done using the diaphragm; wherein there is control of one breathing by slowly expanding and constricting the abdominal instead of the ribcage. Inhale as deeply as you possibly can, hold, then exhale for a few seconds, and then breathe out very slowly. In order to have synchronicity; do your deep inhalation for a count of four seconds, hold your breath for four seconds, and then begin to exhale on the same four seconds count.

When the sequence is repeated, it will distract you from the source of your unease since you are now paying close attention to making sure you do not miss-count. While your attention is no longer riveted to the source of your anxiety, your body slowly takes itself out of its mode for flight or fight. This has an instant calming effect and you will be able to control your actions as well as your thoughts, allowing you to get back to what needs to be done to get you through your day.

The other very effective relaxation technique for anxiety is the stop - think - proceed exercise. Here is where you communicate to yourself, the need to cease whatever you are doing that is causing you to be anxious, for just a short while. This is the simplest way to regulate one anxiety. In the instant that you have removed yourself from engaging in the anxiety-producing activity, you will need to begin thinking about anything that usually makes you joyful. Focus on a relaxing brook, a walk by the seaside, sitting in a beautiful park; being one with self and nature.

You will literally feel yourself relaxing while these thoughts overtake your mind and then transports the calm to your body. Afterwards you may return to the task you were undertaking before and you will find that you are now in a more peaceful mind frame. This simple technique will go a very far way in changing your thought process and where the mind goes, the body will ultimately follow.