How to conquer anxiety once and for all was the theme at my Taming Anxiety workshop on Thursday, January 6.
Attendees learned that a holistic approach is the only real way to resolve anxiety completely. First a foundation must be laid of physical relaxation as a lifestyle, which provides a less fertile ground for anxiety to take root. This is accomplished by a regular practice of breathing and muscle relaxation exercises, combined with a choice of calming techniques such as visualization, guided imagery, meditation, yoga, and just plain slowing down.
It is important for each person to create a personalized plan that works for him or her. That is why each participant received a booklet entitled, ‘My 21 Day A.D.P. (anxiety deletion plan)’.”
Why 21 days?
Because it takes at least 21 days to break a habit, and much of our chronic anxiety is due to habitual ways of thinking and acting.
After establishing the groundwork, it is important to take time to clarify exactly what one’s specific goals are and what “secondary gains” one might actually get from holding onto the anxiety, so they can be overcome. A secondary gain could be attention from loved ones, a reason to put off difficult tasks, an opportunity to procrastinate, a personal identity. It takes courage to face this; but it must be faced before it can be overcome.
Finding the origin of your anxiety is the key. This part of the workshop was the most popular, and is my particular specialty. Once we find the source of our anxiety and the beliefs that hold it in place, we can change the beliefs and get on with our lives.
Building on the foundation of a calmer lifestyle, participants were taught good communication skills, how to recognize and overcome negative self-talk, as well as how to utilize positive, encouraging statements.
Some people with anxiety struggle with panic attacks, phobias and compulsions. They were taught how to design a personalized plan of de-sensitization for these bothersome, paralyzing situations in order to conquer them once and for all.
One participant remarked, “Your holistic techniques are a welcomed change. I spent several months learning what you covered in two hours and learned many new techniques as well.”
Anxiety makes people feel like they are going crazy
. . . and that they are all alone. It’s important for them to know that there are very real reasons why millions suffer from this and that it is very treatable condition. It can be overcome.
If you need help to overcome anxiety in its many forms:
Call Marianne Clyde, LMFT, at (540) 347-3797
My offices are located at 20 Ashby St. Suite 105, Warrenton, VA 20186.
For more information go to www.marianneclyde.com
Originally Posted by marianne at 1/10/2011 6:50 PM |
