Mindfulness can help manage anxiety symptoms from "summary" of The Mindful Way through Anxiety by Susan M. Orsillo,Lizabeth Roemer
Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. When we practice mindfulness, we learn to observe our thoughts and feelings without getting caught up in them. This can be particularly helpful for managing anxiety symptoms because anxiety often involves worrying about the future or ruminating on the past. By staying present and accepting our experiences as they are, we can reduce anxiety and prevent it from spiraling out of control. When we are mindful, we are better able to recognize the physical sensations that accompany anxiety, such as a racing heart or tense muscles. By becoming more aware of these sensations, we can learn to respond to them in a more skillful way. Instead of trying to avoid or suppress these feelings, we can acknowledge them and allow them to be present without letting them overwhelm us. Mindfulness also helps us cultivate a sense of curiosity and openness toward our experiences. Rather than labeling our thoughts and feelings as good or bad, we can approach them with a sense of curiosity, exploring them with an attitude of acceptance and kindness. This can help us break free from the cycle of anxiety by creating space between ourselves and our thoughts and feelings. In addition, practicing mindfulness can improve our ability to regulate our emotions. By learning to observe our emotions without reacting impulsively, we can develop greater emotional resilience. This means that when we experience anxiety, we are better equipped to respond to it in a calm and measured way, rather than getting swept away by our feelings.- Mindfulness can be a powerful tool for managing anxiety symptoms. By staying present, accepting our experiences, cultivating curiosity, and regulating our emotions, we can learn to navigate anxiety with greater ease and resilience.
