Sober October: 5 Tips for Soothing First Date Anxiety
According to a mindfulness expert.
In a study of 2,000 users, Flirtini dating app found that 1 in 2 modern daters regularly experience anxiety because of dating. Elsewhere, 65% of singles drink alcohol to cope with stress and feel confident on a date. For Sober October, the brand taps Walter Gjergja, a mindfulness expert and co-founder of personal trainer app Zing Coach, for 5 alcohol-free hacks to relieve stress before a date.
Keep reading for your expert tips.
Spend a few minutes reading: Many studies show that reading is a powerful stress reliever — and all it takes is six minutes to reduce your stress levels by more than two-thirds, according to the University of Sussex. Offering distraction from life’s problems, reading is linked with many hallmark signs of relaxation, from a lower heart rate to reduced muscle tension. Plus, a good book will give you plenty to discuss on your next date.
Practice meditation: Meditation techniques clear the mind, calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and elevate mood. It’s a surprisingly simple therapy that can be performed by anyone, anywhere, at any time. Just find a quiet spot, sit comfortably, close your eyes, and breathe deeply. As you exhale, you can chant “om”, breaking it down into three distinct parts: ahh, ooh, and mmm; the sound will add to the tension-relieving effects of the meditation.
Use a physical relaxation technique: Get comfortable and focus on a body part, such as your hands or legs. Tense those muscles for five to ten seconds, then release and finally focus your mind on the feeling of relaxation for approximately 20 seconds. Repeat for each muscle group until your body is entirely relaxed. With physical relaxation comes mental relaxation, so it will leave you feeling calm from head to toe.
Put on your favorite song: Put on your favorite upbeat song and perhaps even sing along. And while you’re at it, you could prepare your perfect pre-date playlist to get you in the right frame of mind on the way there. Shown to release feel-good chemicals and reduce the stress hormone, cortisol, positive music will instantly brighten your mood. Nature sounds are also a very effective alternative if you prefer a quieter and more relaxing soundtrack.
Enjoy a warm cup of green tea or a piece of chocolate: A warm cup of green tea or a square of dark chocolate are proven powerful stress relievers. The ingredients contain antioxidants that reduce stress hormones such as cortisol, as well as encourage your body to release a healthy dose of serotonin and endorphins, which promote happiness and relaxation, so even a small cup or bite can have long-lasting effects on your mood.
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