2 Ways To Relieve Stomach Pain When Anxious/Stressed [Video]

If you experience tension or tightness in your stomach, two simple techniques—one focused on relaxation and the other on movement—can help ease discomfort and relieve stomach pain.

Try These 2 Techniques To Relieve Stomach Pain

To experience the full benefits of relaxation and movement, follow along with this video where as a psychologist I teach you these two techniques.

You can also watch the video on YouTube.

First Technique To Relieve Stomach Pain: Relaxation Exercise

Step 1: Find A Comfortable Position

Sit or lie down in a quiet space. Close your eyes if you’re comfortable doing so, or keep them open if that feels better for you.

Step 2: Connect With Your Breath

Place your hands gently on your stomach. Observe your natural breathing rhythm—there’s no need to change it, just notice how your abdomen moves with each breath.

Step 3: Cultivate Awareness And Release Tension

Repeat these calming affirmations in your mind or out loud:

• “I am safe in this moment.”
• “It’s okay to let go.”
• “I allow my body to relax.”

As you focus on these words, imagine any tension gently melting away. If it helps, make a small hand movement, signaling to yourself that you are letting go of any discomfort.

Step 4: Transition Back To The Present

When you feel ready, slowly open your eyes. Take a few deep breaths before moving on with your day.

This simple mindfulness exercise can be repeated whenever stomach discomfort arises, helping you feel more at ease.

Second Technique To Relieve Stomach Pain: Movement-Based Approach

For those who find physical activity helpful, movement can be a powerful way to release tension stored in the body.

Step 1: Imagine The Discomfort As Energy

Think of the discomfort in your stomach as pent-up energy—like a swarm of bees waiting to be released. Using movement, you can help that energy move out of your body.

Step 2: Engage In A Strong, Intentional Movement

Choose an exercise that involves strength and breathing, such as:

• Push-ups or bench presses with deep belly breathing
• Jumping jacks or squats to increase circulation
• Fast-paced walking or jogging while focusing on deep breaths

The key is to synchronize your movement with your breath:

• Inhale deeply before moving.
• Exhale forcefully as you perform the movement.

Repeat this pattern several times, visualizing the discomfort leaving your body with each exhale.

Step 3: Experiment With Different Movements

Everyone’s body responds differently to movement. Try different exercises and find what works best for you.

The goal is to engage in an activity that feels empowering and allows you to release built-up tension.

Additional Tips To Relieve Stomach Pain

• Stay hydrated: Drinking water can help digestion and ease tension.
• Practice mindful eating: Eating slowly and paying attention to your body’s signals can prevent unnecessary discomfort.
• Incorporate deep breathing into daily routines: Taking moments to breathe deeply throughout the day can reduce tension before it builds up.

By practicing these relaxation and movement-based techniques, you can cultivate a greater sense of ease and well-being.

Whether you prefer stillness or activity, there’s a method that can help you feel more comfortable and at peace.

Try these strategies and see which works best for you!

Dr. Jackie Parke

Dr. Parke is a licensed psychologist who has been serving students since 2005. She completed her internship and fellowship training at the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. She has spent thousands of hours directly serving students as their therapist, including in her private practice. She also has ten years of teaching experience as a university psychology professor.