5 Things To Consider When Battling Anxiety
1. Give Space To Breathe
One of the best things you can do in a moment of heightened anxiety is to breathe. One method that has been helpful is what is called “Box Breathing.” Inhale for 3 seconds, hold for 3 seconds, exhale for 3 seconds, hold for 3 seconds. This is not only a great opportunity to control heart rate and engage the mind/body in a healthy way, but it is also a great opportunity to engage in The Holy Spirit who is the one who gives life and brings peace.
Verse To Meditate On:
Job 33:4 (NIV): The Spirit of God has made me;
the breath of the Almighty gives me life.
2. Give Someone A Call
The Bible talks a lot about the practice of confession. Sadly, we have confined this practice to being honest about personal sin only, rather than being honest about the fallen world we inhabit or even what has been done to us. One of the greatest thing we can do if we are feeling the weight of an anxious and fallen world is to tell a friend, a therapist, a family member. Remember, you are not in this alone, you are loved, and there is always hope.
Verse To Meditate:
Proverbs 17:17 (NIV): A friend loves at all times,
and a brother is born for a time of adversity.
3. Give Thanks
Research has continued to confirm what the Bible has been saying for thousands of years. When we live into gratitude and thankfulness it helps slowly erode the worry and anxiety that we can store in our minds and bodies. Rather than focusing on what “might be” remember to be present to, and be thankful for, all that God is doing in and around us.
Verse To Meditate On:
Philippians 4:6 (NIV): Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
4. Give It Up
Often, our anxiety is attached to control. In all of human history we have never had more opportunities to make us “feel” in control. With the ever increasing rapid pace of life, the over-accessibility to technology, and the lack of margin, we must remind ourselves that we can rest in the arms of our loving Father and can surrender our desire to control what we cannot.
Verse To Meditate On:
1 Peter 5:7 (NIV): Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
5. Give It Time
God designed our brains to survive. When anxiety floods our brain it can happen quickly but it often doesn’t subside as quickly as it came. Believe it or not, this has been a gift that has helped people to stay in a state of “fight or flight” long enough to get to safety. In our day and age we need to give ourselves grace for the anxiety to subside slowly. Remember, just because peace isn’t coming quickly, doesn’t mean peace isn’t coming.
Verse To Mediate On:
Philippians 4:7 (NIV): The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
It’s important to remember that the cause of anxiety can be complex and sometimes might be physical or chemical, and not just in our our thinking. Never hesitate to reach out to a medical professional. If you need resources on a Christian Therapist please email info@lightsandiego.com. If you are in need of immediate help please call 911 for emergencies or to talk with a Christian Mental Health hotline call 844-LifeChange (543-3242)