Dealing with Anxiety

August 23rd, 2011

Anxiety itself is the body’s natural defence mechanism intended to react to a physical threat or emergency situation. In the event of a physical threat, the brain triggers the “fight-or-flight” response which is often accompanied by some unpleasant physical symptoms such as an increasing heartbeat, rapid and shallow breathing as well as an increase in muscle tension. While this reaction is perfectly normal in the event of an accident or physical threat and very helpful for survival, when it becomes excessive and/or is originating more from emotional rather than physical stress, it is called anxiety disorder.

Anxiety disorder has become quite a common problem in our society, affecting people from as young as teenagers. It can be quite debilitating, especially when it manifests itself in the form of panic attacks which are usually accompanied by shortness of breath, heart palpitations, dizziness, chest pain, hot flashes and/or chills, trembling, numbness or tingling sensations in the extremities and nausea. Those symptoms are caused by an increased production of adrenaline which speeds up the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates to produce energy for the body to use.

When suffering from anxiety disorder, the body’s natural “fight or flight” response kicks in by mistake – meaning that the response occurs when there is no actual physical threat present. Anyone who has lived through a panic attack (including myself) will know how scary and frightening that is. But living with chronic anxiety is just as debilitating. Luckily there are some great methods and techniques available that can help you manage and even overcome anxiety. I have applied them myself and have been able to achieve some fantastic results.

A combination of Yoga, meditation/relaxation, breathing exercises and other physical activities such as walking, jogging/running, swimming and Pilates have helped me to keep my anxiety disorder at bay.

I have designed a specific anxiety exercise program as well as some guided meditations for you. Please check them out! They are also great for relieving stress in general. But, before beginning any exercise program, it is advisable to speak to your doctor first.

I will be using this category (“Anxiety”) to provide you with news and information about anxiety as well as nutritional tips and recipes for anxiety sufferers – so please, keep checking this category regularly.

Have a great day – Namaste!

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