If you suffer from the following symptoms, you may have anxiety or panic disorder:
You are constantly tense, worried, or on edge
Your anxiety interferes with your work, school, or family responsibilities
You are plagued by fears that you know are irrational, but can’t shake
You believe that something bad will happen if certain things aren’t done a certain way
You avoid everyday situations or activities because they make you anxious
You experience sudden, unexpected attacks of heart-pounding panic
You feel like danger and catastrophe are around every corner
Anxiety is a biological response and alerts us that there is something to which we need to pay attention. It's only when we become overly-anxious, or hypervigilance, that it becomes a problem.
We experience anxiety in our bodies, but may not know how to interpret these feelings. This is why we "get into our heads" and develop racing, looping, obsessive, or panicked thoughts. By calming your body, you will quiet your mind.
Here are two ways to calm your anxiety quickly and safely:
1. RAS (Reticular Activating System) Breathing:
Inhale deeply while counting to three
Exhale fully while counting to six
Repeat at least six times, or until your body starts to relax
In order for this exercise to work most effectively, it's important to count while breathing
2. Butterfly Hug
Notice where in your body you feel anxiety
While focusing on this area, cross your hands over your chest
Lightly tap your shoulders as if with butterfly wings, alternating between each shoulder
Continue until the feelings of anxiety calm
Call or email today to discuss how you may be able to rid yourself of anxiety permanently!
