Alyson Stoner Instagram – I was on the verge of giving into the all-too-familiar heaviness and tightness in my chest mental overwhelm that comes with GAD (generalized anxiety disorder). But, I still had commitments to family, work, and car issues the same night.
I remembered what @coachalyssachang shared in our @MovementGenius class, and it saved the day:
1) Assess *which kind* of stress response you’re in: fight, flight, freeze, or fawn.
2) Use tools for *that specific* state, because certain techniques may be helpful for one, but unhelpful for others (i.e. sitting still to meditate while your body is in “fight mode” and needs to expel energy may not help you move toward a sense of safety). I lowered the lights and closed the door to reduce environmental stimulation. Then, I placed pressure on my chest and relaxed my tongue and jaw.
3) Since catastrophic thinking can be a self-fulfilling prophecy for me, I remembered that our bodies really can shift in a short period, and our near-spiral doesn’t have to ruin the whole day.
Sometimes Life feels so taut, and I wonder if I’ll be able to handle it with the strength and persistence and selflessness I see my family, friends, and other people have while managing so much. But, I know that moving through this moment mindfully will help build resilience.
If you’re feeling frayed, sending extra love. One moment at a time. 💜
Alt text: Alyson sitting down, wearing a grey crewneck that says “Love Anyway”. | Posted on 18/Jan/2024 23:12:06
