Picture the scene: you’re waiting to be called in for your dream job interview, you’re prepped and ready to nail it. You’ve got your answers rehearsed, a firm handshake ready to go, and a sharp look thanks to a new shirt. But the interviewer keeps you waiting … and waiting … and waiting …
As time ticks on, those nasty nerves start to seep in – knees are weak, palms are sweaty. Actually, a lot of areas are sweaty. You may think there’s nothing you can do. Nervous sweating is a part of life, right? Wrong. You may not be able to banish the beast completely, but you can tame it.
WHAT IS ANXIETY SWEATING?
Sweating is a normal bodily response, you know that. But it doesn’t just happen as a way for our bodies to cool down after exertion. Anxiety sweating is your body’s way of responding to a faster heart rate and a rush of adrenaline caused by nerves. It may feel like it comes out of nowhere but it’s perfectly normal and very common.
HOW TO STOP ANXIETY SWEATING
Next time you find yourself hot under the collar, try these top tips on how to stop nervous sweating:
- Cool off. Remove the blazer or loosen the tie a tad and let some air flow.
- Hydrate. Sip cold water to help regulate your body temp.
- Relax. Take deep breaths to calm those nerves.
- Spray. Use a strong LYNX antiperspirant to feel fresh and dry – it’ll give you 48hr protection.
- Avoid spices. Spicy foods are only likely to make you feel hotter and sweatier.
- Avoid coffee. Too much caffeine can make your body work harder and sweat more.
Ask for help. Some people suffer from a medical condition that causes excessive sweating. Anxiety may cause this – such as with social anxiety sweating. Speak to your GP to develop a clear plan to manage and treat any underlying conditions.
HOW TO PREVENT SWEATING WHEN NERVOUS
It may be common to get a little clammy when you’re nervous, but that doesn’t mean it’s welcomed. Try these long-term tips to prevent sweating when you’re nervous.
- Wear loose clothes. Even slim fit clothes can be made my comfortable if you pop a button or ditch the blazer.
- Invest in a strong antiperspirant. Lynx anti-perspirants ensure you’re protected from sweat for 48 hrs. Keep it with you to top up on the go for added confidence.
- Exercise regularly. This is the right time for sweating but can help you relax too.
- Stay in shape. Excess weight can cause excess sweat.
- Meditate. Channel your inner zen to reduce stress.
- Try a low salt diet. Food and drink can impact how much you sweat, and how much it smells.
- Own the situation. Stay confident and take charge. Feel too hot? Take off the jumper. Mouth drying up? Ask for a water. You’re in charge.
Once you’ve got nervous sweating under control there’ll be no stopping you. Let’s get it.