Hey guys! Welcome to my blog, this entry was inspired by the #inleocommunity and it's my response to the prompt for day 20.
Anxiety is something many people face, including me. It is a state of terror or anxiety of such intensity creating a rapid increase in the heart rate and/or disruption of mental lucidity. Sometimes anxiety occurs before I am about to take a meaningful action, such as giving a presentation to a group of people, or before I am about to overthink the future. Since I learned how to manage it over time, it is, however, not always easy, I have, in fact, at that point, become habituated to it.
The first thing I need to do when I am scared is deep breathing. When anxious, i.e., I feel suffocated and it is the feeling as though there is no breath. But I became a student in breathing (with nothing I'd been doing to focus on). I take deep breaths by nose, I stop and hold it for a few seconds then I exhale very slowly by the mouth. It helps to calm my heart and mind. On the occasions that I do this multiple times until I feel better.
I also confide in someone I trust. I have two best friends, Chidera and Ify, who never criticize me. If feeling overwhelmed, I just call one of them and just talk to them. Talking does me good by allowing me to express the feeling that is forming in my belly. Like they remind me that it will be all right and their words push me to be strong.
Writing down my feelings also helps me cope. If I can't talk to somebody, I reach for a notebook and put pen to paper about why I am feeling anxious. I monitor everything I ponder, no matter how ridiculous it is. Writing helps me release the tension in my mind.
Sometimes, I distract myself by doing things I enjoy. Sitting with anxiety can leave me feeling suffocated, but somehow the thing I cherish which releases my mind frazzled. For example, I enjoy crocheting. When I pick up my crochet needle and focus on creating something, I forget about my worries, even if it’s just for a short time.
I also note to myself what I can influence. Anxiety is for the most part triggered by the fact that I am, in respect to these, unable to exert control. I keep reminding myself that I should concentrate on what I can improve and do not worry about the matters within the domain of God. Praying gives me peace. Every time I speak to God, I think of it as giving out to Him my troubles and receiving comfort in return.
I also have the habit of stopping when I get overwhelmed. I sometimes feel a sensation of fresh air on my face, when I go through the door. If I can, I take a walk. It's relaxing for me to sit in a quiet place and look at the environment of nature.
Lastly, I remind myself that anxiety is temporary. It may not feel good now, but it will be all right in the end. I tell myself, "This time, that's what you've done already and you will make it again," and it instills hope and power upon what is to be.
Dealing with anxiety is not always easy, but the following few steps allow me to cope with it. With experience, I have learned to face anxiety with stoicism and courage.