Superhero Mode Activated
Understanding and Overcoming Anxiety
In this blog post I expand on a subject I've mentioned before. I want to talk about anxiety, a word that often invokes a sense of dread and discomfort and something my Mum always used to say to me when I was a kid.
I suffered from panic attacks from being quite young and I know only too well that feeling that the world is spinning faster than you are and the inevitable adrenaline surge that often accompanies it. Did you know that anxiety is like having a superhero power in disguise? It's true! When we experience anxiety, our bodies go into overdrive, releasing a surge of adrenaline that prepares us to face perceived threats. It's our body's way of saying, "Hey, danger ahead – time to activate superhero mode!" It's fight or flight, a natural instinct that kicks in. The surge of adrenaline behind anxiety is a fascinating biological response to perceived danger. It floods our system with energy, heightens our senses, and prepares us to respond swiftly to potential threats.
But here's the catch: Sometimes, our superhero powers can feel a bit overwhelming, like we're riding a rollercoaster without a seatbelt. That adrenaline surge can leave us feeling jittery, out of control, and downright uncomfortable. It's like having a fire alarm blaring in our heads, even when there's no fire in sight. But fear not! You're not alone in this superhero adventure, so many people struggle with this feeling, some more than others and I'm very happy to say I've got mine under control for now, although it does take me by surprise every now and again. There are some things you can do to help, here are a few tips and tricks for overcoming anxiety:
Breathe Deeply: When anxiety strikes, take slow, deep breaths to calm your nervous system and center yourself in the present moment.
Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or grounding exercises, to anchor yourself in the here and now and alleviate racing thoughts.
Challenge Negative Thoughts: Identify and challenge negative thoughts that fuel anxiety. Remind yourself that you are capable and resilient, and that this feeling will pass.
Seek Support: Remember that even superheroes need support sometimes. Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist for guidance and encouragement.
Self-Care: Prioritise self-care activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as exercise, hobbies, and spending time in nature.
Limit Stimulants: Reduce consumption of stimulants like caffeine and nicotine, as they can exacerbate feelings of anxiety.
Seek Professional Help: If anxiety persists and interferes with daily life, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Therapy, medication, or a combination of both can provide effective relief.
By understanding the adrenaline surge behind anxiety, we can learn to use it. My mum always said, “know it’s just chemical, tell yourself, you know what it is, and it will settle down.” I know sometimes this is easier said than done but it always helped me to rationalise when I felt out of control. You can use this knowledge as power to reclaim a sense of calm and control.
So, the next time you feel anxiety creeping in, remember: You're not broken, you're not weak – you're simply experiencing the side effects of your superhero powers kicking into gear. Take a deep breath, centre yourself in the present moment, and know that you have the strength and resilience to ride out the storm. Remember even superheroes need a little support sometimes.
Anxiety may be a formidable opponent, but with understanding, support, and resilience, we can transform it from a foe into a friend—a hidden superpower waiting to be unveiled. Let's embrace imperfection, celebrate our strength, and navigate life's challenges with courage and compassion. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. We're in this together, uncovering the superhero within, one breath at a time.
Much Love
Fran x