Methods for Alleviating Anxiety and Cultivating a Sense of Serenity, Tranquility, and Liberation

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I make a solemn promise to release all concerns and unease, allowing myself to experience a sense of weightlessness and liberation. ~Thich Nhat Hanh

I have been grappling with episodes of anxiety for quite some time now.

Occasionally, I have experienced an overwhelming sense of terror that arises even in circumstances deemed secure by the majority.

I have vivid memories of my earliest episodes, back in my early childhood.

I was filled with such fear that I would burst into tears during the entire journey from home to kindergarten.

It was a puzzling experience, as there seemed to be no apparent reason for my reluctance to go.

As I matured, I discovered the art of concealing my anxiety by focusing on my strengths and engaging in activities where I excelled.

In my high school years, I unearthed a deep passion for computers, which instilled in me a sense of assurance and security, knowing that I possessed the potential to excel in this domain.

Upon reaching the pivotal moment of choosing a college major, I made the resolute decision to embark on a journey into the realm of Computer Science.

My aspiration was to create a multitude of applications.

However, I quickly realized that the reality of school was quite different; I was faced with lengthy sessions of mathematics and physics, subjects that seemed unrelated to my aspirations.

In my sophomore year, my anxiety resurfaced and began to affect me once again.

I experienced extreme fatigue and a pervasive sense of futility in all my actions.

After several months of grappling with apprehension, I finally mustered the courage to take action: I ventured to apply for a position at a nearby software firm.

Despite facing numerous challenges, I remained determined to overcome each one, fueled by the conviction that I had rediscovered the correct path.

During my fourth and ultimate year, I began experiencing a sense of stagnation, as if I were trapped in a perpetual state of stillness.

I began to experience a sense of monotony as the tasks assigned to me at work seemed strikingly similar.

However, beneath the surface of this sense of ennui, my anxiety resurfaced once more.

Accompanying this sense of unease was a tinge of exasperation, as I believed I lacked the capability to alter my employment situation.

Upon making the ultimate decision to proceed, I soon discovered that the magnitude of the leap exceeded my capabilities.

The immense burden I had placed on myself throughout the years took a toll on my physical well-being.

Despite the amiable nature of my coworkers at my recent job, an unsettling sense of apprehension persisted within me.

After three weeks, I made the decision to resign, opting for an extended hiatus to contemplate my future endeavors.

Little did I realize back then that my anxiety would be an unwelcome companion, following me wherever I ventured.

In search of a fresh approach, I resolved to shatter it once and for all by cultivating a more wholesome perspective.

Below are a few insights and decisions that played a significant role in my journey towards overcoming anxiety, along with the practical steps I took to implement them.

Anxiety can stem from various factors, but I hope sharing my personal experience can offer some valuable insights:

Keep in mind that satisfactory is the contemporary definition of perfection.

Throughout my life, I have consistently strived for excellence in all my endeavors, which unfortunately has resulted in a significant amount of frustration and tension.

I made the choice to embrace the freedom of occasionally releasing my grip.

There was no need for me to feel anxious before every exam, nor did I have to strive for victory in every situation.

Playing the game was perfectly acceptable.

In addition to this, I successfully cultivated stronger friendships and relationships.

I realized that my relentless drive to win at all costs was causing others to view me as their adversary.

Releasing the self-imposed pressure becomes easier when you shift your focus away from striving to be the absolute best.

Cease engaging in multitasking.

While it may not appear directly connected to anxiety, there is a correlation.

In the past, I had a tendency to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously, such as working, glancing at my phone, responding to emails, engaging in casual conversations, and more.

The constant disruptions caused me to lose my sense of direction, and those moments of disorientation are fertile ground for anxiety to take hold.

Direct your attention to a single task and practice being fully present in that particular endeavor.

By doing so, you will naturally experience a decrease in feelings of anxiety.

Cease evading activities that you find displeasing.

Crowded places like supermarkets and malls have always made me feel anxious and uneasy.

I would remind myself, “It’s perfectly fine to skip this time.” You will experience a greater sense of self-assurance in the future.

However, that scenario never came to pass.

When I confronted the circumstance once again, my physical being recognized that on the previous occasion, I had allowed fear to emerge victorious.

Rather than addressing emotions in a single scenario, I found myself confronted with feelings stemming from two separate situations.

Now, rather than evading situations, I consistently remind myself when I feel afraid: “This is the opportune moment to confront my fear!” I eagerly await the challenge!”

Embrace the inevitable circumstances that trigger your anxiety, and gradually train yourself to confront and overcome your emotions.

Discover a pursuit that brings tranquility to your soul.

During times of immense pressure, I realized that I lacked any sources of enjoyment.

My friends often advised me to take a break and engage in activities that brought me joy, but I struggled to discover my true passions.

In recent times, I found myself confined to my bed, restlessly shifting from one side to the other, only to find that I returned to work feeling even more fatigued than when I initially left.

I recalled a childhood aspiration of mine to embark on early morning runs, long before the world stirred awake.

I feel incredible after consistently going for runs every day for a month.

When I experience feelings of anxiety, I visualize myself engaged in a brisk run, inhale deeply a few times, and promptly restore a sense of calm within me.

Direct your attention towards the aspects within your grasp.

Previously, I frequently expressed dissatisfaction with my physical state.

Despite undergoing numerous medical tests that consistently confirmed my good health, I remained convinced that I was unwell.

I experienced a range of symptoms including dizziness, a feeling of lightheadedness, and overall muscle tension.

While these experiences were quite terrifying back then, I came to the realization that it was my excessive need for control that was the root cause of these fears.

I constantly pondered: “Do I feel good?”

By fixating on the symptom, it manifested into reality.

I have come to realize that I lack control over my physical being.

I have the ability to govern my thoughts, and interestingly enough, these thoughts have a direct impact on my physical well-being.

Occasionally, when I experience dizziness, I pause to reflect and inquire, “Could my concerns be contributing to this sensation?”

View anxiety as a chance for growth.

Looking back, I realize that anxiety may have been the most beneficial experience of my life.

The moment I experienced unease, I realized it was time to transform my work methods, pursue my interests, and shift my perspective.

The lessons anxiety imparts are the key to its eventual departure.

That’s the moment we can proceed.