5 Holistic Approaches For Anxiety Treatment And Lasting Well-being
While anxiety is formally categorized as a mood disorder, it is sustained by both physical and cognitive patterns. Successful anxiety treatment extends beyond addressing the emotional aspects to encompass the underlying physical and cognitive factors that contribute to the condition. At Authentic-Life Counseling, we integrate conventional Western medicine with alternative Eastern healing techniques to provide a holistic approach to anxiety treatment. The top five anxiety treatment approaches include:
5. The Physical Aspect
In addressing the physical dimension of anxiety, techniques like progressive body scans prove highly effective in treatment. The interconnected relationship between body and mind underscores the importance of achieving bodily relaxation to promote mental ease. Progressive body relaxation stands out as a commonly employed anxiety treatment method aimed at fostering physical calmness. Various guided meditation apps and instructional YouTube videos are accessible resources for individuals seeking to learn and practice this technique. Consistent practice is key, with the ultimate goal of training the Central Nervous System to mitigate the triggers of the body's fight/flight/freeze response.
4. Life-Style Assessment and Changes
While it may seem obvious, comprehensive anxiety treatment necessitates a meticulous examination of lifestyle patterns. The pervasive impact of poor sleep hygiene, exercise routines, and dietary choices on the anxiety epidemic cannot be overstated. Yet, many individuals neglect a candid assessment of their lifestyle habits. Initiating change involves crafting a plan with achievable, incremental goals. Mindful pacing is essential in reaching these objectives, and seeking support from family and friends is a valuable resource. Recognizing and celebrating achievements along the way adds a meaningful layer to the journey. In the realm of anxiety treatment, acknowledging the significance of lifestyle factors, encompassing diet, exercise, and sleep patterns, remains pivotal.
3. The Cognitive Aspect
In combating anxiety, the relentless stream of future-focused, fear-inducing thoughts can be effectively tempered through mindfulness practices. Grounding us firmly in the present, mindfulness directs our attention away from an uncertain future and towards the tangible now. The present moment serves as the sole arena where one can truly engage with life. Within this moment, sensory experiences, from the visual to the auditory and physical, ebb and flow. By simply allowing these sensations to pass without attachment, we tap into our observer's mind—the seat of consciousness. Cultivating mindfulness involves being a conscious witness to the present moment, refraining from any additions or projections. This practice proves to be a potent antidote to anxiety's grip on the mind. Importantly, accepting the present moment without judgment becomes a cornerstone of this transformative journey, fostering a profound sense of peace and resilience.
2. Meditation
A regular meditation practice emerges as a transformative tool in alleviating symptoms associated with various mental health disorders. As an advocate for enhanced mental well-being, I guide all clients through meditation, recognizing its profound impact. The initiation of one's meditation journey hinges on the intensity of racing thoughts. Guided meditation serves as an accessible entry point, fostering relaxation and concentration. As proficiency grows, the practice evolves into seated meditation with a mantra, aiming to stabilize the mind and relax the body. Advancing further involves releasing the mantra and embracing the observer’s mind—a practice where mental processes unfold, observed with acceptance, and devoid of emotional hijacking. This nuanced approach empowers individuals to acknowledge thoughts as mere mental processes, preventing them from dictating emotional reactions.
1 The Subtle Energy System and Energy Psychology
In Eastern practices, the intricate energy systems of the body, embodied in the Chakra and Meridian Pathways, serve as powerful conduits for healing. The fusion of Eastern subtle energy healing with Western psychological modalities, known as Energy Psychology, stands as an evidence-based treatment. Specifically tailored to anxiety, this holistic approach diminishes the intensity of anxious thoughts by redirecting the associated subtle energy. Simultaneously, it reinforces positive belief systems, fortifying our strengths and capabilities through intentional manipulation of the subtle energy systems. This harmonious integration of Eastern and Western methodologies amplifies the potential for comprehensive healing, embracing the mind-body connection in the journey towards lasting well-being.
be in peace - diane