Overcoming Anxiety: Why It Doesn’t Define Us and How to Take Control

Anxiety is a natural response to stress and perceived threats. It is a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear, that can be experienced by anyone at any time. However, it is essential to understand that anxiety does not define us as individuals. It is a feeling that we choose to experience, and with the right tools and techniques, we can learn to manage and overcome it.

The first step to understanding anxiety is to recognize that it is a feeling that we choose. While it may seem like an automatic response to stress or uncertainty, we have control over how we react to it. We can choose to confront our fears, seek support from loved ones, or practice relaxation techniques to alleviate our anxiety.

It is also important to remember that anxiety is not a reflection of who we are as individuals. It does not define us, and it does not have to control our lives. We are much more than our feelings, and we have the power to change our thoughts and behaviors to reduce our anxiety and improve our overall well-being.

One effective way to manage anxiety is to focus on the present moment. When we feel anxious, our minds often wander to worst-case scenarios or the unknown future, which can exacerbate our feelings of stress and fear. By practicing mindfulness and grounding techniques, we can bring our attention back to the present moment and reduce our anxiety levels.

A way to help us be or return to the present moment is by breathing. Practice square breathing – in for four seconds hold for four seconds, out for four seconds, hold for four seconds and continue.

Another important aspect of managing anxiety is self-care. This includes taking care of our physical, emotional, and mental health by getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in activities that bring us joy and relaxation. Self-care can help us feel more in control of our lives and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.

A healthy sleep routine can be practiced by reducing screen time before bed and having a set “wind down” time to prepare your body for bed.

It is also crucial to seek support from others when we experience anxiety. Talking to a friend, family member, or mental health professional can help us process our emotions, gain new perspectives, and develop strategies to manage our anxiety effectively.

Regular talk therapies and body work help reduce adrenal fatigue, stress and support the nervous system. Nature can also support us to regulate our nervous system and ground – walk bare foot in grass).

In conclusion, anxiety does not define us as individuals, but it is a feeling that we choose to experience. By understanding this, we can take control of our thoughts and behaviors and learn to manage our anxiety effectively. Practicing mindfulness, self-care, and seeking support from others can help us reduce our anxiety levels and improve our overall well-being. Remember that anxiety is a feeling that we can overcome, and it does not have to control our lives.