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Transformational Talk
Soothing Anxiety
Are you struggling with anxiety? Although serious disorders may require a doctor’s care, it’s still possible to manage much anxiety without medication if you’re willing to make certain changes. The challenge is in discovering what your anxiety is trying to tell you and then loving yourself enough to change your life.
Here’s the tip. First, consider giving up or severely limiting caffeine intake. You may wake up at 3am with a pounding heart triggered by cup of coffee drunk at 11am.
Second, keep a food/mood diary. Record what you eat and how you feel. Low blood sugar and food allergies often mimic anxiety. Balance protein/carbs/fats properly with special attention to nerve-soothing EFAs (essential fatty acids.) Don’t eat sugar unless accompanied by protein. Exercise daily. Research shows regular exercise is often as effective as medication for anxiety and depression.
Next, ask inside what you may be angry about. Anger is often disguised as anxiety, especially if it’s too scary to acknowledge. When too daunting to proceed alone, get support. Pounding pillows, stomping feet, and journalizing are good ways to discharge anger briefly as long as you let your body lead you back to peace.
Finally, cross your arms and place your hands on your bare arms. Breathe until you feel the warmth of your own embrace. Ask inside what changes you’re ready to try for just a month (medication would take at least that long to kick in anyway). Gv.e yourself a chance to feel good again. You deserve it. ©
Penelope Young Andrade, LCSW www.penelopetalk.com Call: 858-481-5752 fax: 858-484-8374 email: PenelopeYAndrade@gmail.com