Embracing Anxiety
I’ve been living with anxiety since I was a child. I didn’t know it was anxiety then but its clear looking back its something I’ve lived with for a long time. Despite being a yoga and meditation teacher with an in depth knowledge of coping techniques and living what I’d describe as a healthy lifestyle, I still get anxiety at times and I’ve accepted its something I will probably live with for the rest of my life, as I’m sure is the case for many of you.
So, what do we do with this anxiety when it comes calling?
I’ve decided this year I’m going to really start embracing my anxiety. Normally its something I try and get rid of and push down, but I think embracing and accepting what’s happening in our body and head is really important to help us move through the experience.
Embracing my anxiety means leaning into and listening to what happens in my body. Some people get anxiety in their tummy, and some people more in their chest. I’m more irritable and less patient when anxiety creeps in. So I need to practice more kindness to myself and those around me when that happens.
Embracing anxiety can also mean using that adrenaline to kick my butt into gear and get stuff done. Making a written list of things I need to get that day is really helpful to me as I can see everything written down and can cross it off. And yes, I will absolutely write down something I’ve already done for a free dopamine hit.
Embracing anxiety might mean sitting with the feeling quietly for a few minutes. I especially like putting my hand over my heart when I’m feeling a big wave and breathing consciously.
Anxiety manifests itself differently in everyone, so below is a list of my favourite techniques to sooth my body whilst I’m experiencing a wave.
Tapping - the EFT website have a great free resource on a tapping technique you can use when you are anxious, but I also find that tapping anywhere on my body brings me back to the present and away from worst case scenarios
Breathwork - for anxiety, always think about your exhale being longer than your inhale, as this will move you into your parasympathetic nervous system (your rest and restore side). Inhale fully through your nose then purse the lips and blow slowly through the mouth to exhale, taking as long as you can
Meditation - quietly sitting with your anxiety in meditation is a great way to embrace how you are feeling. Once you’ve taken some time to check in, you could use an affirmation to repeat to yourself for a few minutes. I like the affirmation ‘I am calm’ or ‘I am peace’, or if you are going through something unknown ‘I trust the process', I trust the unfolding of my life’
Nature walk - even if you don’t want to go, taking a walk in nature is an amazing way to relax your nervous system. Doesn’t matter what the weather is doing, get outside and get some fresh air!
Move - any movement is beneficial, not just yoga. Do a ten minute video workout, get to a class, go for a swim, turn up the music in the kitchen and have a dance. Any kind of movement will help to calm the nervous system.
Remember that we live in a world where we are overstimulated, overworked, overtired have limited time off, limited time outside and we see terrible things happening around the world. Its completely normal to have anxiety and you are not being dramatic or failing for feeling anxious. Its important to do things that make you feel better and prioritise yourself as much as you can during times like this.