Experiencing Anxiety? These days, regardless of age, I’m not sure who isn’t in some way or on some level. Having tools, strategies and support to help you move through feelings of panic, anxiety, fear and stress with a bit more ease is of the utmost importance. At times, we know what triggers us and sends us spiraling while very often, we are affected without ever knowing why…or what caused it. So HOW do we stay calm or get back to center when we do get triggered…when we are amidst chaotic stress and anxiety???
Waiting until we feel like we are going to explode or are in the middle of a panic attack is NOT the best time to start practicing being calm. This is something worth mentioning because the following suggestions are worth putting into place as a practice so your body and mind are more prepared for when you do get triggered. allowing you to stay more calm and grounded to respond rather than react.
Here are 4 Suggestions that may help reduce anxiety and stress.
Meditation.
As my husband says, “Meditation is my medication.” Not only does it allow you to find and breathe your own breath, it allows you to center yourself, ground and focus. When you are more calm, you are able to better handle stressful situations. Being in practice is what helps raise your capacity to handle stress while giving you more clarity. It seems so difficult for so many to find the time or “get the mind quiet.”
Meditation is NOT meant to quiet the mind…it is meant to help give perspective and space. You are present to observe the thoughts and watch them pass by like taking 10 steps back from a busy highway. The cars (thoughts) are still flying by but from more of a distance which allows you to focus elsewhere or feel the thoughts going by with less intensity. Taking time to breathe, vision, be guided, journal, listen to soft music in quiet for 2-5 minutes every day are some ways to begin the practice of meditation. START TODAY…You have NOTHING to lose and only more peace to gain!
2. Exercise.
It is important to have an outlet when you are feeling stressed and anxious. Also, exercise creates endorphins…the happy hormones that help keep us more positive and have higher energy even when things around us are stressful. The exercise doesn’t have to be a crazy aerobic workout for hours everyday. Even taking a 20 minute brisk walk, breathing in fresh air, and taking time away from your phone and other electronics give you a wonderful chance to reset while increasing circulation and airflow. Find an activity or two that makes you happy, something that you look forward to doing at least 3-4 times per week. A little exercise goes a long way for cognitive function and reducing stress.
3. Healthy Eating/Nutritional Supplements
Eating a balanced diet of whole foods is THE best way to keep our capacity high and inflammation and stress level down. The fuel we put in directly impacts how we function. If we eat junk like chips, cookies, cakes, donuts, pizza - foods containing processed sugar, wheat/gluten, dairy, trans-fats or corn - it can quickly increase stress and biochemically pull us into a sad and depressed state. It can also make our brains feel foggy. Great foods like proteins, veggies, fruits and good fats like avocado, olives and coconut can uplift us and help us to feel greater clarity and energy.
It’s amazing how quickly we find excuses why NOT to eat more healthfully. Believe, me, I’ve heard it all! Remember, eating healthfully is the foundation for optimal function on EVERY level…it is SO important. So, if there’s a will, there’s a way and I trust you can find a way to integrate it into your life.
Sometimes we do not break down our food very efficiently even when it is good quality food. Digestive enzymes are of the utmost importance. They can eliminate bloating and tiredness after eating, prevent reflux as well as break your food down for better absorption of the nutrients which can decrease the hunger and need for always wanting to eat. When the body is satiated, hunger stops. Additionally, it is important to take a great probiotic or sporebiotic to put the good bacteria back into the intestines which helps keep your body overall healthier.
Additionally, there are supplements that can help us feel calmer and reduce anxiety. CBD oil is a hot commodity these days. It is important that you know where it is sourced because many are impure and not very effective. Lavela is another supplement to reduce anxiety. It is 100% high potency lavender oil in a capsule. The clinical studies show that it is as effective or more effective than any anti-anxiety drug on the market! Clinically, we have seen amazing results with this supplement. Many homeopathic remedies are also fantastic for helping one feel calmer and reduce anxiety like Ignatia and the NET remedies that we carry such as ER911 or Pain Relief. I could write an entire blog on supplements alone but these are a GREAT place to start. Our store carries all of these and our doctors and staff can offer additional information for you! Let us know and we can get you started.
4. Chiropractic Care + NET
Chiropractic care reconnects and gets your nervous system functioning better. Creating greater flow from brain to body and body to brain helps increase your capacity to handle stress along with boosting your immune system. It offers greater clarity as well. When we are more connected and balanced everything can function better.
NET or Neuro Emotional Technique helps to prevent the physiological response that comes along with stress and emotions. Remember me mentioning that we often do not know what triggers us? Well, NET is an incredible tool utilizing the meridians (from Chinese Medicine) to tap into the emotional trigger that shifts us into a physiological response like a panic attack or tension in the muscles, butterflies in the stomach, a headache, etc. Want to see this technique in action…check out the Neuro Emotional Technique video from our website.
I know life can throw us curve balls…lately there are A LOT! Help yourself handle it better by utilizing some of the tools listed above and also know that you are NOT in this alone. We have a team of people who’s passion it is to support you, your family and friends to their best selves. Ask for help. Let us or someone you trust support you to a greater state of health and happiness. The one thing that we can count on is change which means the feelings of anxiety, fear and panic will change…they are not forever. Take action and choose the change now.
With Infinite Love, Light and Laughter,
Dr. Cari Jacobson
*NOTE: All that is written are suggestions not prescriptions to help. Check with your doctor or schedule an appointment to learn what is best for you.