Anxiety is a sly and evil thing, creeping into our minds and wrapping its grip around our thoughts, making it hard to breathe, hard to think, and hard to be. It’s like a dark storm cloud that follows us everywhere, casting a shadow over our daily lives. But, what happens when anxiety takes hold of our mind? How do we stop it from consuming us?
I’ve been there, and I’m sure many of you have too. It starts with a nagging feeling, a sense of unease that you can’t shake off. Then, before you know it, your mind is racing with worst-case scenarios, and your body is responding with a flurry of physical symptoms: a racing heart, sweaty palms, and a knot in your stomach. It’s like being trapped in a never-ending nightmare, with no escape in sight.
But, here’s the thing: anxiety doesn’t have to win. We don’t have to let it dictate our lives, our thoughts, and our emotions. We have the power to choose how we respond to it, to rise above it, and to not let it define us.
So, how do we do it? How do we take back control when anxiety takes hold of our mind?
The first step is to recognize when anxiety is taking hold. It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of thoughts and emotions, but it’s essential to take a step back, acknowledge what’s happening, and accept it. Yes, accept it. Acknowledge that you’re feeling anxious, and that it’s okay to feel that way. Don’t try to suppress it or deny it; instead, face it head-on.
When anxiety takes hold, our breathing becomes shallow and rapid. Our minds start racing, and our bodies tense up. That’s why it’s crucial to focus on your breath. Take slow, deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. Feel the air fill your lungs, and then release it slowly. As you breathe, bring your attention to your body, starting from your toes and moving up to the top of your head. Notice any areas of tension, and as you exhale, imagine any tension melting away.
Anxiety loves to play tricks on us, making us believe the worst-case scenarios are inevitable. But, we can challenge those thoughts by asking ourselves questions like: “Is this thought really true?” “Is there another way to look at this situation?” “What evidence do I have for this thought?” By questioning our thoughts, we can begin to reframe them in a more positive and realistic light.
When anxiety takes hold, it’s easy to beat ourselves up over our perceived shortcomings. But, self-compassion is key in to overcoming anxiety. Treat yourself with kindness, understanding, and patience. Remind yourself that everyone experiences anxiety, and that it’s okay to not be okay. Be gentle with yourself, and avoid self-criticism.
Anxiety can make us feel paralyzed, but taking action can help to reduce its grip. Break down big tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, and focus on one step at a time. Take a walk, do some stretching, or engage in a hobby you enjoy. Taking action can help to distract you from anxious thoughts and build confidence.
Finally, don’t be afraid to seek support. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional about your anxiety. Sharing your feelings with others can help to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Remember, you don’t have to face anxiety
Anxiety may take hold of our mind, but it doesn’t have to define us. We have the power to choose how we respond to it, to rise above it, and to not let it win. By recognizing and accepting our anxiety, breathing and grounding ourselves, challenging negative thoughts, practicing self-compassion, taking action, and seeking support, we can overcome it and live a more fulfilling life.
So, the next time anxiety takes hold of your mind, remember that you have the power to choose. You can choose to let it win, or you can choose to rise above it. Choose to breathe, to ground yourself, to challenge negative thoughts, to practice self-compassion, to take action, and to seek support. Choose to live a life that’s not controlled by anxiety. You are stronger than your anxiety. You are capable of overcoming it. And, with time, patience, and practice, you can learn to live a life that’s free from the grip of it
I love this! Thank you!!! Sometimes when I’m in the thick of it I can’t remember the steps to get out❤️