Points covered in this episode:
In the hustle of our daily lives, anxiety has become an all too familiar companion for millions of people. What if the key to managing anxiety lies not just in external factors but in how we perceive and interpret it?
Using anxiety as a teacher
Instead of viewing anxiety as an enemy to be defeated, consider it as a signal from your mind and body. It’s a natural response to stress, and recognizing it as such helps remove the stigma associated with anxiety.
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Being open to messages
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Noticing patterns and triggers
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Looking for areas where you can make gentle changes
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Pay attention to your language and the subtleties of language
Embracing Uncertainty – The facts of life
Anxiety often thrives on the fear of the unknown. Rather than viewing uncertainty as a source of distress, try to consider it as an inherent part of life. Embracing uncertainty allows for a more flexible and adaptive mindset, reducing anxiety’s grip on our lives.
Getting unstuck from anxiety
Instead of seeing an anxiety as something that has power over you, or feeling like you’re going to be stuck with it forever.
You can find opportunities for healing. In other words, embracing a mindset that views difficulties as chances to learn and develop resilience can make anxiety a catalyst for personal growth.
Ask questions
Sit and take a breath and ask, why am I feeling anxious?
Am I tired? Do I need to eat something?
Find the trigger, be with it, question it and take steady breaths.
Journal for a few minutes to clear your mind.
Practicing mindfulness
Mindfulness involves staying present in the current moment without judgment. By cultivating awareness of your thoughts and feelings in a non-judgmental manner, you can detach from the grip of anxiety. This shift in focus from the past or future to the present moment can alleviate the intensity of anxious thoughts.
Resources:
Mindful Connection Breathing Practice (Free to all on our Patreon)
A guided breathing and awareness practice from our Anxiety Slayer Starter Course.
Peacefully Present Guided Relaxation
Aligning with the present moment is a valuable way to soothe and strengthen your nervous system, especially if you’re feeling anxious or triggered.
Helpful practices to bring us back to feeling more calm and relaxed
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Breathing and tapping the collarbone point
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Allowing the feelings, not fighting them
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Remembering where you feel okay and remember something good, something to be grateful for
The Gift of Positive Self-Talk
Our internal dialogue plays a significant role in shaping our emotional experiences. By replacing negative self-talk with positive affirmations, you can reshape your perception of anxiety. Practice reminding yourself of your strengths, capabilities, and past successes to build resilience in the face of anxious moments.
Be kind and patient with yourself.
