What do you want to accomplish this month?

I struggle also. I am a parent and a big part of my anxiety revolves around my kids. I started to read “Protecting The Gift” and it is helping change some of the ways I address safety and risk. I also have another book coming from amazon “The Mindfulness Wheel - Living in the Present Moment” to me with my other anxieties, especially the circular wheel that is always spinning negative crap in my head.

I would love to talk about what works and what does not.

Hi there,
I have also recently begun to struggle with anxiety. At first I was so hard on myself, thinking how could this be happening to me, Miss I got everything together! Let's brainstorm about what helps. Any alternative remedies?

Hello All ~

Kudos to all of you for taking steps to address the roots of your anxiety.
It's become so commonplace to go the prescription drug route - which
I believe does have it's place - but doesn't get at the cause, does it?

Sirene, I also really enjoyed Protecting The Gift. I thought it had good
practical information for parents and pointed to the supreme value
of a mother's instincts.

A book that I consider excellent for living in the moment is The Power of Now, by Echkhart Tolle.

Anxiety disorders are on the rise in our culture.  In a way, it can be seen as a response to modern living, don't you think? 

There are many underlying factors, including some physical conditions such as thyroid disorders and adrenal fatigue.

Some people find biofeedback, cognitive therapy, and hypnosis helpful.

There are also natural therapies like herbal formulas, homeopathy and bach flower remedies that are really useful, especially during an attack.

Breathe deeply and know you and your children are held in the web of life.
Lean back into the lap of God, (whatever that means to you) and just witness.
Watch your thoughts coming and going.
Notice how you have thoughts - but you are not your thoughts.
You have responsibilities - but you are not your responsibilities.
Try saying it yourself.
“I have anxiety - but I am not anxiety”
“I have fears/hopes/chores,/bunions/wrinkles/desires/etc., etc. - but I am not these things”
Watch everything arising.
See how thoughts arise.
Stay awhile. (torture or tantalize to various degrees!:)
Then pass away.
All thoughts, all feelings, all emotions, all hopes, all dreams, all forms and matter, arise, stay awhile, and pass away.

What remains?

My goodness! Thank you C.C. This is all very helpful and insightful information. It is all connected. If we take care of the whole person things seem to correct themselves. I like to be able to trust my body and listen to it's own inner, innate wisdom. I am often just scratching the surface.
Thanks again,
have a wonderful evening.
M

C.C., thank you for the phrases. These types of cognitive tune ups really help me put my anxiety in perspective.

Some of the things in “Protecting the Gift” have already helped me. Today I was visiting a family member with my dh and kids. I told them all I would not be taking my little daughter on the boat ride because I was anxious about it. In the book, Gavin talks about thinking through your fears and really thinking about what you are afraid of. Well, honestly I was afraid my 22 month old would somehow get out of the boat. Well, as it turned out SHE wanted to go on the boat with her dad, cousin and brother. So she allowed us to suit her up in the life jacket and once the boat started moving, she settled in for the ride. We had a few moments where she squirmed and whined…but she did not get away from me and throw her body into the depths of the lake like my worrying imagination envisioned! So, I am pretty proud of myself and grateful to my patient, gentle nephew who was encouraging, but not pushy. And hopefully he does not think his aunt is a nut. (Oh well if he does…he would not be the first.;) And my dh was totally surprised I did it. It is good to keep them guessing…

Kim,
Those thyroid levels are tricky buggers.  If you feel an impulse to simplify I think you are wise to follow.  Certainly can't hurt, eh?

M,
I know what you mean about scratching the surface with the instincts.  This can be huge! Especially for women, I think.  I don't know if we fully understand the price we pay for going against our instincts. 
And in my house, I feel like the whole family is riding on my instincts!  Seriously.  It's like they all look to me to see what's right.  Dad may act like he's in charge, but when the chips are down they're all looking at mom while she reads her inner compass! :D

Sirene,
My heart was singing reading about you and your babe getting in that boat! (Cyber five!!!!)

Hey, have you read The Continuum Concept, any of you?

Deep bows to you all,
cc

Simplicity in all things is how we still our minds and listen to the voice within. We are strong women! We are loving, learning, sharing, and taking one day at a time. Focusing on the moment, the present really does center me. It just takes some practice.
I have never heard of this book, but will definitly check it out.
Thanks again for everyone sharing so honestly.
m