mindfulness-matters

[mindfulness-matters]

I know it can be hard to pinpoint the exact reason for your anxiety sometimes. but I also know that these feelings are real, and that’s what matters. it’s not your fault. anxiety can happen to anyone, especially in these chaotic times.

[mindfulness-matters]

the more you're afraid that you're going to do something wrong, the more you're going to be afraid.

[mindfulness-matters]

anxiety is not a sign of weakness, and you cannot simply get rid of it by force. you try to do things your level and should be respected for that.

[mindfulness-matters]

if you feel that things are too much, that doesn’t mean you are weak. it means that you are a caring, empathetic person and you care too much.

[mindfulness-matters]

you don’t have to be perfect. no one is perfect. there is no one, no person in the whole universe, who doesn’t have flaws. everyone makes mistakes. everyone is vulnerable. and everyone worries. everyone is human.

[mindfulness-matters]

there are a number of free or low-cost options that might be helpful. one option you might consider is self-help materials, like books or online programmes, which can provide guidance and tools for managing social anxiety symptoms. there are also some mental health apps that offer exercises and good advice.

[mindfulness-matters]

one approach you could consider is to start small by exposing yourself to low-pressure situations, possibly with people you feel comfortable around, and gradually work your way up to more challenging situations. over time, you might find that your anxiety lessens with each new experience.

for example, I personally make myself go and buy a coffee occasionally. you don’t have much interaction with people this way. but don’t force it. it’s important to take small steps and start with something that feels manageable to you.

[mindfulness-matters]

I am such an Autumn person. Give me a quiet, cozy spot with a view of the changing trees on a crisp, late September day with a warm drink and a good book and I will be in all my glory.

[mindfulness-matters]

seeking help isn’t a weakness. rather, it’s a courageous step towards addressing your challenges.

[mindfulness-matters]

via

[mindfulness-matters]

your opinion matters. no matter what they say, no matter what they think about you, and no matter how much they doubt you — no one has the right to decide whether your opinions are ‘good’ or ‘bad’.

[mindfulness-matters]

you need to stop trying to hide yourself and your opinions, because you are not at fault for feeling this way. no more hiding. no more keeping everything inside. even if it’s a long-time habit, you can stop it.

[mindfulness-matters]

“Highly sensitive people are too often perceived as weaklings or damaged goods. To feel intensely is not a symptom of weakness, it is the trademark of the truly alive and compassionate. It is not the empath who is broken, it is society that has become dysfunctional and emotionally disabled. There is no shame in expressing your authentic feelings. Those who are at times described as being a ‘hot mess’ or having 'too many issues’ are the very fabric of what keeps the dream alive for a more caring, humane world. Never be ashamed to let your tears shine a light in this world.”

— Anthon St. Maarten

[mindfulness-matters]

if you've been struggling with anxiety for a long while, there might be some things that you might have subconsciously suppressed. things that you won't even admit to yourself. things that you want to ignore or push away. it can be hard to acknowledge them, as it can be complicated to sort out your thoughts that way. but you need to face them. even if it's very uncomfortable. you can't move forward unless you do.

[mindfulness-matters]

in moments where you need immediate help to manage anxiety, there are a few things you can try. firstly, remember to breathe; deep, slow breaths can help calm the body and mind. you can also try progressive muscle relaxation, where you tense and relax each muscle group in your body, starting with your feet and working up to your face. additionally, you could try grounding techniques such as focusing on your surroundings or engaging in a simple activity like making a cup of tea.

[mindfulness-matters]

in situations where you might not have time to practise relaxation techniques or mindfulness, try to focus on your senses. try to name five things you can see, four things you can feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. this helps anchor your mind in the present moment and can help reduce anxiety.

[mindfulness-matters]

practise mindfulness. it can help not get lost in your thoughts, which often fuels your anxiety. mindfulness is about being fully present in the moment and accepting your thoughts and feelings without judgement. it’s about focusing on your here and now instead of worrying about the past or the future. the practice of mindfulness involves bringing awareness to your thoughts, emotions, and sensations without reacting to them immediately. it also involves simple techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and engaging in mindful activities, like mindful eating, walking, or drawing.