We all deal with fear. Sometimes it's just a small annoying fear. We're moving along through the day and we're afraid we won't make it on time to an important meeting. Sometimes we have a moment of fear if we're suddenly expected to say something in a conversation but have not had time to think first about what we might say or how we might say it. Sometimes fear seems chronic - a rather unwelcome constant companion - we fear we won't have enough money, we'll grow old and die alone, we won't survive our terrible illness, we won't be able to see our children grow up, we won't be able to manage all our responsibilities, we will not measure up, we won't complete goals we've set for ourselves, our plane will crash, we'll have that horrible dream again. We usually try to tell ourselves that there's nothing to be afraid of, or we try to act courageous while we're shaking inside.
The next time you feel afraid try these four things:
First, sit down and breathe. Even count your breaths. As you breathe in, breathe in calmness. As you breathe out, breathe out the fear. Breathe at least 5 full breaths. Breathing is usually shorter when we're afraid because our bodies have a physiological response to fear that speeds up and shortens our breath. Five full deep breaths can help you feel not only more calm, but more courageous.
Second, take a step. It may be a physical step that helps break the pattern fear has put upon you. It may be a mental step that takes you closer toward the fear. As long as there is movement, there is less chance for fear to cause you to feel paralyzed.
Third, close your eyes and imagine the fear as a mist over the ocean. Look for the beauty in the mist, feel it's moisture, give thanks for it's mystery, try to let yourself become 'one' with it. Fear can actually lead us to greater strength when we encounter it with curiosity.
Fourth, affirm your eternal nature. Nothing can or will happen to you that can destroy your eternal worth or the eternal love with which you are held in the universe. Fear can never, ever have that kind of power. Remember, God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7)
The next time you feel afraid try these four things:
First, sit down and breathe. Even count your breaths. As you breathe in, breathe in calmness. As you breathe out, breathe out the fear. Breathe at least 5 full breaths. Breathing is usually shorter when we're afraid because our bodies have a physiological response to fear that speeds up and shortens our breath. Five full deep breaths can help you feel not only more calm, but more courageous.
Second, take a step. It may be a physical step that helps break the pattern fear has put upon you. It may be a mental step that takes you closer toward the fear. As long as there is movement, there is less chance for fear to cause you to feel paralyzed.
Third, close your eyes and imagine the fear as a mist over the ocean. Look for the beauty in the mist, feel it's moisture, give thanks for it's mystery, try to let yourself become 'one' with it. Fear can actually lead us to greater strength when we encounter it with curiosity.
Fourth, affirm your eternal nature. Nothing can or will happen to you that can destroy your eternal worth or the eternal love with which you are held in the universe. Fear can never, ever have that kind of power. Remember, God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7)
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