I'm right smack in the midst of an irrational anxiety almost-attack. My normally very slow heart rate has quickened (I did just check it, though I already knew it had because I can feel my heart thumping against my chest). My entire body is tense. I feel like I need to do a few hours of productive work, take a long bath, and go to sleep all at the same time. Cognitively speaking, I know my life is fine. I can go through the list of "worrying" things and counter them with perfectly logical non-worrying arguments, but whatever is eating at me is not so easily settled. Even deep breathing and other action-oriented coping strategies my coworkers and I use with our anxious kiddos [to help fight physiological symptoms] seem to push me closer to or over the edge.
So, I'm looking for advice. I'm pretty sure a handful of people read this (for sure more than the 2 people who comment!) and I want to know your anxiety-fighting strategies.
How do you soothe an illogically anxious spirit?
5 comments:
Perhaps you had too much coffee?! With pumpkin spice lattes back on the scene, my days get awfully bizzare from such a jittery mind ;)
On a more serious note: I make myself get in the Now. There, I can realize that I am fine. My family is fine and all is well.
I take deep breaths and tell myself that I am strong, and I can do this. It sounds corny, but it works.
Running or long walks help, and of course yoga. Thinking of you dear friend and sending you lots of hugs.
I like the term illogical anxiety -I used to experience something a lot that sounds similar - my girlfriend and I used to call it "undefinable angst." Anxiety may be more intense than angst though, and since Luke turned 3 I've been feeling more of it myself! I've found that in my worst moments/worst days, my own reserves and strategies only go so far. I think God is trying to show me how much I really do NEED Him, because sincere prayer is the only thing that gives me peace to last through a whole day! I hope you feel better soon!
I like the term illogical anxiety -I used to experience something a lot that sounds similar - my girlfriend and I used to call it "undefinable angst." Anxiety may be more intense than angst though, and since Luke turned 3 I've been feeling more of it myself! I've found that in my worst moments/worst days, my own reserves and strategies only go so far. I think God is trying to show me how much I really do NEED Him, because sincere prayer is the only thing that gives me peace to last through a whole day! I hope you feel better soon!
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