Affirmations for anxiety, often seen as burdensome, is an intrinsic aspect of the human condition. When confronted with potential threats or discomfort, our bodies instinctively react, unleashing a surge of adrenaline, hastening heartbeat, and clammy palms—classic signs of anxiety. But what if I told you that affirming anxiety could be an act of self-affirmation? Despite its negative connotations, anxiety serves a vital evolutionary purpose, honing our focus and augmenting our physical capabilities. Yet, many fail to heed these innate warnings, instead labeling anxiety as harmful, something to be avoided at any cost. This resistance only exacerbates the issue, fostering further distress.
But when anxiety emerges, remember: it’s normal to feel anxious. When we encounter potential danger or unease, our nervous system promptly shifts into alert mode: adrenaline surges, heart rate accelerates, palms sweat, and reactions quicken, preparing us for the imminent “fight or flight” response—that’s anxiety.
From an evolutionary standpoint, the bodily responses during anxiety aid in sharpening our focus and enhancing physical abilities. Unfortunately, many overlook the cautionary nature of anxiety, merely experiencing its discomfort and deeming it harmful, necessitating complete avoidance or eradication. This resistance causes the brain to perceive anxiety itself as a threat, triggering more anxiety and discomfort. affirmations for anxiety as a natural response and comprehending its evolutionary purpose can aid us in navigating through it more adeptly.
The next time anxiety surfaces, try telling yourself: “It’s alright to feel anxious, even though it’s a bit uncomfortable. It’s natural.” Remind yourself: things aren’t as dire as they seem. Our minds are akin to fountains, incessantly generating various thoughts. When anxiety strikes, the brain’s focus skews, fixating on thoughts incessantly narrating “how real the danger is” or “how dire the situation is.”
Caught in the whirlpool of anxiety, we often accept these biased thoughts as absolute truths. The next time thoughts like “it’s all over,” “it’s terrible,” or “there’s no hope” arise, try delving deeper: What specific thoughts/images is my brain conjuring? How different is the actual situation from the worst-case scenario I’m envisioning? How can I adopt a more comprehensive and objective perspective? Remember: anxiety will pass.
Persistent anxiety often stems from incessantly checking if the anxiety has abated, ensnaring us in a vicious cycle. Anxiety is a sensation that will eventually wane; even without intervention, it will dissipate. Actively opting “not to solve it” is also a resolution.
“I’m experiencing some discomfort at the moment, but this sensation isn’t perilous. I don’t need to flee from it or remedy it. I can gently permit it to coexist while diverting more attention to what’s presently paramount. My emotions will gradually ameliorate.”
Every emotion, including anxiety, will pass. By acknowledging that anxiety is a normal facet of existence and accepting it sans resistance, we can diminish its hold on us. Remembering that our thoughts may not invariably mirror reality and that anxiety will ultimately subside enables us to confront it with equanimity and resilience. affirmations for anxiety as a natural response and comprehending its evolutionary purpose can aid us in navigating through it more adeptly.
If you are experiencing intense and excessive fear and worry, accompanied by physical tension and other behavioral and cognitive symptoms, and it severely interferes with your daily activities, this is beyond the scope of normal anxiety. Please seek help from a doctor in a timely manner.
References:
(1) Anxiety – American Psychological Association (APA). https://www.apa.org/topics/anxiety/.
(2) We need to rethink anxiety, says Harvard psychologist. https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2023/10/when-fighting-anxiety-is-worse-than-pointless/.
(3) Anxiety Disorders Research Program – NIMH. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/about/organization/dtr/adult-psychopathology-and-psychosocial-interventions-research-branch/anxiety-disorders-research-program.
(4) Anxiety at a Glance | NCCIH. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/anxiety-at-a-glance.
(5) Anxiety Disorders Clinical Trials – Mayo Clinic Research. https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials/diseases-conditions/anxiety-disorders.
(6) Anxiety: What it is, what to do – Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/anxiety-what-it-is-what-to-do-2018060113955.
(7) Understanding and treating anxiety disorders: A psychodynamic approach.. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2020-89411-017.
(8) Anxiety | Brain & Behavior Research Foundation. https://bbrfoundation.org/research/anxiety.
(9) Anxiety Disorders – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders.
(10) undefined. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-30687-8_17.
Disclaimer:
The information in this article is for general information sharing purposes only. It is not a substitute for personalized medical or dietary advice. For personal health concerns and dietary needs, consult a qualified health care provider or dietitian.