Anxiety

It seems fair to say that everyone experiences anxiety at some point in their lives.  It's typical to be nervous before a first date or an important job interview.  And a healthy amount of anxiety is good for us...it keeps us motivated to set and achieve new goals and plan for the future.  However, when you experience anxiety that begins to negatively impact your functioning, such as avoiding people, places, or activities, and experiencing panic attacks, then it's time to take a look at what exactly is causing these negative symptoms.  Anxiety is the fear of a future event.  Ask yourself what you are afraid of and what may be triggering these symptoms alerting you to hold you back.  And when you begin to experience symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, racing thoughts, muscle tension, psycho-motor agitation (pacing, wringing your hands), or a feeling of being detached, take a 'time out' to breathe.  Take at least four deep breaths in breathing through your nose for four counts and releasing it out through your mouth for four counts.  This will slow down your automatic nervous system and lower your heart rate hopefully bringing your normal functions back to a typical level.  Repeat this exercise if necessary until you feel centered within yourself once again.  Check in with yourself and assess whether or not you are presently physically and emotionally safe, and if not, get to a safe place.  I like to tell my clients to escape to the restroom to take a moment to ground themselves and this can be done almost anywhere.  You don't become a good captain navigating in fair seas.  It's the rough waters that teach us our strengths and what we are capable of.  Thanks for stopping by and reading my blog.  I hope you found this message useful.