Days like thunder,
Like lightning,
Like rain,
Days like these....
Don't last always.
-Nü Moon
Dealing with anxiety can be one of the most debilitating experiences known to beings. I know first hand what it feels like to have thoughts swarming thru your head like a nest of angry bees. I've taken myself down 2 am roads of "what ifs" and "shoulda, coulda wouldas". It wasn't until I decided to really invest in self-care and well-being that I would learn to manage the storms of my mind.
Over the years I have had to battle my mind and emotions. Something that has resonated with me, is the use of nature as a means to observe how I am feeling. I've learned to look elements as the following:
Air- Thought, mind, intellect
Water- Emotions, healing, life giving
Earth- Grounding, nurturing, secure
Light (fire)- Passion, strength, freedom
I like to think of these elements, when working together harmoniously, create a nice calm beach on a summer day. The wind is a light breeze, the waters are calm, gentle and still. On the contrary, when these elements are not working together, I think of storms like hurricanes and typhoons.
Much like the air, our mind can control the waters, or the emotions. The more chaotic the mind, the emotions will follow.
Something that has helped me along my personal journey is to practice self awareness. The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method method has definitely helped me come back to myself. It allows me to check in when my mind feels like roaring hurricane. I also decided to explore the healing art of Ecotherapy. Ecotheraphy doesn't have an exact definition but I like to think of it as "becoming one with nature". I have made it an intention to visit parks often and enjoy nature trails. My experience in nature has personally allowed me to appreciate the light within and allow for greater self acceptance not only me, but all living beings. I've learned so much from just observing the trees; spending time near water when I can, sun gazing and breathing deep.
I also decided to reconnect with yoga- it's allowed me to get in tune with who I am at my core. I find it allows me to focus on the body and breath. It challenges me to confront the thoughts that pour in my mind. I've found that I currently enjoy the flow of Sun salutations (Surya namaskar) which means- Honoring of the sun. I use it as a means to energize my body, while practicing honor and gratitude of the light within and around me. I also find Moon salutations (Chandra Namaskara) which means "Honoring of the moon" soothing and calming. I use this flow when I am in need of deeper introspection and a more rested state of self.
This intuitive painting reminds me what anxiety can look like, and to be aware when it starts to whisper its tails of doubt. I am reminded how the winds of the mind create waves, all the while there is sunshine trying to peak thru. Each time I look at this creation, I am told to be gentle with myself, to breathe deep and let the sunlight in. I am reminded as well: When I bring my thoughts and emotions into alignment-I create my own reality. The practices mentioned above are not a one size fits all strategy, but it has allowed me a greater sense of inner peace. It allows the light back into my thoughts and being.
Disclosure: I am not a doctor or a dietician. The information I provide is based on my personal experience, as an artist and spiritual practitioner. Any recommendations I may make about nutrition, supplements or lifestyle, or information provided on this website should be discussed between you and your doctor if any of these recommendations involves risks to you.The information you receive do not take the place of professional medical advice.
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