Wellbeing Wednesday: Holistic approaches to manage anxiety

The demands of the modern world, especially in the workplace, can take a toll on our mental health and overall wellbeing. In today’s Wellbeing Wednesday article, Rachna Stear, explores the ins and outs of anxiety and delves into holistic approaches to help manage it. We also take a closer look at a powerful technique called Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and how it can be a beacon of hope, particularly in the aftermath of storm Ciaran.

Understanding anxiety: A storm within

Anxiety, often described as a storm within, is more than just feeling stressed or worried. It’s a pervasive sense of unease that can impact every aspect of our lives, especially in the workplace.

Picture this: tight deadlines, endless to-do lists, and the constant pressure to perform. It’s a recipe for stress, and when stress lingers, it can evolve into anxiety.

The effects of anxiety on our health are profound. Physically, it can manifest as headaches, muscle tension, and fatigue. Mentally, it can lead to racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, and even feelings of impending doom. Moreover, the workplace isn’t spared from anxiety’s reach. Increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and strained interpersonal relationships can become the unwelcome side effects of a perpetually anxious mind.

Holistic ways to tame the storm

Let’s take a stroll through some tried-and-true methods that can help soothe the storm within.

1. Mindfulness Meditation: Picture this – taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath, clearing your mind of the clutter, and embracing the present moment. That’s mindfulness meditation for you. Research has shown that regular practice can significantly reduce anxiety and improve overall wellbeing.
2. Exercise: It’s not just about breaking a sweat; it’s about releasing those feel-good endorphins. Exercise has been proven to be a powerful antidote to anxiety, promoting better mood and reducing stress hormones. So, whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga class, or a dance session in your living room, get that body moving!
3. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Fuelling your body with nutritious foods, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep might sound like common sense, but their impact on anxiety cannot be overstated. A well-nourished body is better equipped to handle the challenges that come its way.
4. Social Support: Don’t underestimate the power of a good chat. Connecting with friends, family, or colleagues can provide a valuable support system. Sharing your thoughts and feelings can be cathartic, and often, a fresh perspective from someone you trust can make a world of difference.

EFT: Riding the Emotional Freedom Wave

Now, let’s shine a spotlight on Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), a holistic approach that has gained traction for its efficacy in managing anxiety. Also known as ‘tapping’, EFT combines elements of ancient Chinese acupressure and modern psychology to address emotional issues. The process involves tapping on specific meridian points on the body while focusing on the issue at hand.

One might be skeptical about tapping on the body to alleviate anxiety, but the results speak for themselves. EFT has shown promise in reducing anxiety levels, improving emotional wellbeing, and even alleviating physical symptoms associated with stress.

EFT in the aftermath of Storm Ciaran

As we navigate the aftermath of Storm Ciaran, the emotional impact can linger long after the physical storm has passed. The destruction, uncertainty, and upheaval can leave a lasting imprint on our minds. This is where EFT can offer us a glimmer of hope.

Tapping can be a valuable tool in processing the emotions stirred up by the storm. Whether it’s fear, frustration, or a sense of loss, EFT provides a structured way to acknowledge and release these emotions.

Here’s how EFT can help you manage anxiety, stress and improve your overall health:

• Stress Reduction: Tapping on acupressure points helps calm the body’s stress response by sending relaxing signals to the brain. It can quickly alleviate feelings of tension and anxiety.
• Emotional Release: EFT allows you to release emotional baggage and negative thought patterns that contribute to stress. By acknowledging your emotions while tapping, you can find a sense of relief and clarity.
• Physical Relaxation: The physical act of tapping can induce a state of relaxation. It eases muscle tension, lowers heart rate, and helps to regulate breathing, promoting a sense of calm.
• Improved Sleep: EFT has been shown to be highly effective in addressing insomnia and improving sleep quality. By tapping on concerns and worries before bedtime, you can prepare your mind and body for a restful night.
• Enhanced Resilience: Regular EFT practice builds emotional resilience. It equips you with effective coping mechanisms to deal with stress, helping you bounce back from challenges more easily.

It’s important to note that EFT is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and individuals experiencing severe anxiety or trauma should seek professional help. However, as a complementary approach, EFT has the potential to be a valuable resource in the toolkit for managing anxiety.

Anxiety may be an inevitable part of life, especially in the fast-paced world we find ourselves in. However, by embracing holistic approaches such as mindfulness, exercise, and tapping into the power of EFT, we can weather the storm more effectively.

In the aftermath of Storm Ciaran, let’s not only rebuild our physical surroundings but also nurture our mental and emotional wellbeing, ensuring that we emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.

Rachna Stear, is a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach. She adopts a comprehensive and personalised approach to health, delving into the root causes of issues rather than just treating symptoms so she can to guide clients towards sustainable wellness, addressing underlying imbalances for long-term health benefits. She is also an Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) Practitioner, seamlessly integrating this powerful mind-body technique into her coaching methodology.

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