Anxiety and what it does to the body

Anxiety is not a weakness of character. It is an alarm system that goes off too often, or too loudly, for situations that no longer call for it.

What happens

The body gets ready to run or fight: the heart rate climbs, muscles tense, digestion slows. Thoughts search for the threat and find it everywhere. The harder you try not to think, the more they come back.

Where to start

First, name what is happening, without judging it. Then notice the situations that set off the alarm and what you do to avoid them, because avoidance keeps the fear alive. Finally, bring back what calms the body: breathe out slower than you breathe in, walk, sleep at regular hours.

In session

We look together at where this alarm comes from and what it protects. Often it tells a story older than the situation of the moment.