Many of us will be marveling Monday at the solar eclipse, but the historical event could also make some feel anxious.
“Our brains have a built-in alarm system called the amygdala, and when there is anything out of the ordinary in our environment, it clicks into hyperdrive and becomes aware of everything that is going on and triggers a fight or flight response, which may make you feel a little nervous,” explained Dr. Susan Albers, a psychologist for Cleveland Clinic.
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Albers said if you are feeling anxious about the solar eclipse, make a plan.
Choose a safe and comfortable place to watch and consider who you’re going to be with.
Calm is contagious, so if others around you are relaxed, you’re more likely to be too.
Deep breathing exercises can also be helpful.
To do that, simply take a deep breath through your nose and hold it for a couple of seconds. Then slowly breathe out with your lips pursed.
“There are many people who are going to be in group environments, and this can often trigger a lot of anxiety or increase the emotional response,” said Albers. “So be prepared if you are in a large group of people that there could be a heightened sense of emotion.”
Albers said in all of the excitement, it can be easy to forget about safety when viewing the solar eclipse.
She suggests practicing putting on your protective glasses so you are prepared.