Do you know the difference between fear and worry?
While fear can protect you from a REAL and PRESENT danger, worry and anxiety arises from a PERCEIVED threat in the future. Many of us are feeling more anxious with the upcoming elections, the coronavirus pandemic, and the health and wellbeing of our families and communities.
You may think you’re being productive, but worry can wreak havoc on your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. A friend once told me that worry is like sitting in a rocking chair, going back and forth, heading nowhere. Meditation and being more mindful can help lower your level of anxiety and worry along with these helpful tips.
Practice these tips if you catch yourself in worry thoughts
Tip 1 – Be here, now – You can do this by taking a few deep breaths in a row. The vast majority of time we worry about things that have already happened or will never happen, which robs us of the joy in the present moment. Practice mindfulness by focusing your attention on the here and now. Observe your five senses or get out in nature.
Tip 2 – Set aside time to worry – Instead of worrying all day, designate a 30-minute period of time If you find yourself worrying outside of that time, force your mind to another topic. Get creative, find solutions to your worries and then confront them head on.
Tip 3- Meditate. When you meditate or do Guided Imagery, your brain moves into Alpha and Theta states that calms down the Amygdala part of the brain, “fear or flight.” Meditation increases the alpha and theta brain wave activity. Extensive research has revealed that these relaxing waves reduce stress and anxiety over time.
Tip 4- Let go of control – Accept that some things are outside of your control. If you decide that there’s nothing you can do to change a situation…accept it and then let it go. The “Serenity” Prayer can help, “Change the things you cannot change and the wisdom to know the difference.”
Tip 5 – Cultivate appreciation – Practice an attitude of gratitude. You then shift your energy into a more positive space and open yourself up to experience more joy and love rather than stress. It also helps to plan fun and relaxing activities throughout your week with family and friends. Less worry, more joy!
Wishing you and your family peace!
Vicki
Vicki Atlas Israel is the Author of “Inner Power NOW.” As a Mindset Coach and Certified Guided Imagery Specialist, Vicki’s purpose is to bring more love, joy, and healing to parents and children. Freedom from stress to be your best. She’s offering a complimentary “Breakthrough Anxiety” session. You can connect with her at InnerPowerMindset.com.