Alleviating Writing Anxiety: Relax Before You Do It

I offer these to my undergraduate writing students. They could also be used with any art genre. Here's the first one.

Breathing and Relaxation: Take ten to fifteen minutes before you write. Close your eyes and sit up in your chair or recline on your bed. Inhale and exhale deep breaths. This aids in relaxation. The medical community also recommends this for those suffering from insomnia. After you have relaxed, tighten your entire body. After you tighten your body, relax each section of your body starting with your head then moving on to your neck, shoulders, arms, torso, legs, and feet. Take your time while doing this. A creative writing instructor I had at the University of Chicago’s Graham School started the second half of her class with this exercise. After you have finished relaxing, begin writing and revising.