Dear Anxiety, Why are you here?
The American Psychological association defines anxiety as an “emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts and physical changes like increased blood pressure.” It can take on many different shapes and forms. Each individual will experience anxiety differently.
When we look closely there can be a purpose. Anxiety can be trying to tell us something or get our attention. Here are a few explanations that can be helpful to remember:
Anxiety can be everything leading up to an action. Is there something that you have been avoiding to say or do? This anxious feeling can indicate that an action step needs to be taken to create peace in your mind and body.
Past experiences can impact how we view our current reality. If we have had a past trauma or incident that was painful, anything that has a slight tint of this will feel as if a Tiger is running straight for us. It may not be obvious but get your detective hat on and see if something has hit a “pain point”
Fortune telling can be the culprit. Have you already decided how something is going to turn out before it has even has happened? Listen carefully when you feel your anxiety on the rise and see if decisions have already been made about what is ahead.
Exploring the relationship you have with anxiety. When it shows up, how do react? Examine what you are telling yourself is going to happen with anxiety comes knocking at your door. Anxiety Canada describes anxiety as “a normal and adaptive system in the body that tells us when we are in danger. This means that dealing with your anxiety NEVER involves eliminating it, but rather managing it.”
Sleepless nights, lack of movement, and not eating enough can increase our anxiety levels. Make these a priority and see if it has an impact on your level of anxiety.
“Anxiety’s like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but it doesn’t get you very far.”
—Jodi Picoult