Running From Anxiety

The other day my cat (Tater) got a bag caught around his tail. He panicked, and ran, in no particular direction, in blind terror, around the house. He ran until the bag caught air and floated away.

He then relaxed, took a bath and napped for hours in the center of a sunbeam.

Some of you may know what it’s like to be Tater. To feel as if you are often running from the anxiety, the overwhelm, and the “what ifs.” Below is a mindful strategy for dealing more effectively with anxiety and panic:

1) Don’t run.

2) Yes, I am serious, don’t run. Stay where you are.

3) Ride the Wave. Let it come, let that big wave break over you. Let it pass.

4) Let the water from the wave cascade down on you. Welcome it. Notice it. Accept it.

5) Do it again next time. Over time the anxiety and panic will have less power and you will have more confidence. It will get better.

Email me with any questions.

Kelly Snow, LPC