....I have anxiety. Like, not just some exta stress, but heart pounding, buzzing, unrelenting anxiety. Most times I am able to keep it at bay with good food, adequate sleep, and a regular yoga practice. Lately, I’ve had to add medication to my routine.
What is anxiety anyway?
The Mayo Clinic defines people with anxiety as having “intense, excessive and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations.” This worry and fear is intense enough that it interferes with daily activities and can often take over a person’s life. Anxiety can be a result of internal factors such as hormonal levels and genetics, and external factors such as job or family stress.
Symptoms of anxiety can vary. Here’s a list of a few:
Nervousness and fear
Racing heart
Trouble sleeping
Decreased appetite
Sweating and trembling
Trouble concentrating
Often people don’t even realize that they are suffering from anxiety until some experience stops them in their tracks and forces some life changes.
How do we treat anxiety?
There are lots of ways to treat anxiety. First of all, it’s important to say that if you think you’re struggling with anxiety it is good to see your health care professional. They can rule out other conditions, as well as provide some alternatives. Sometimes medication is one of the ways to manage anxiety. And for many people (including me), works very well!
Eating well, getting adequate sleep, and regular exercise are all great ways to manage anxiety in tandem with medication or without.
Yoga and meditation are also proving excellent aids in the treatment of both depression and anxiety. Yoga Therapists are trained to work one on one with people to help them find balance and health. Contact me for more information and we can talk about how asana, breathing, and meditation can be incorporated into your anxiety management plan.
Studies show that yoga and meditation can help increase positive feelings!