ANXIETY: From an Integrative Health Perspective
- June 24, 2020
It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent; it is the one most adaptable to change.
Charles Darwin
Stress-induced anxiety is at an all-time high throughout the world as the covid-19 pandemic is reshaping our society and erasing any sense of normalcy. Every aspect of life is literally in flux creating change and uncertainty. From an Eastern perspective, the five phases or five elements principle is used to help us understand and manage changes. The 5 phases principle explains how qi cycles through the five stages/phases of transformation based on the cyclical patterns of change in natural phenomena as seen in the seasonal cycle.
The 5 phases can help us understand and manage our emotions. The diagram below shows the emotions that usually correspond with each of the five phases (Fire, Earth, Metal, Water, Wood). You’ll see there are two different “emotions” for each phase. For instance, inspiration and anger correlate with the wood phase. When the mind and body are aligned, balanced and adaptable, inspiration springs forth. When the body and mind are out of balance or emotions become excessive and static; the emotion of anger may ensue rather than inspiration. Or when thoughts become obsessive, or we worry too much, excessive emotions can disrupt digestion or lead to a sense of suffocation causing panic attacks. For people who tend to be more extroverted, the stress and anxiety from being locked down may be more intense.
Here are some simple ways to help manage stress that are FREE:
- Turn off the news
The news and social media bombard the mind with information that focuses on the past or speculates on the future. The mind chatter grows louder and the mind becomes restless, creating a body-mind imbalance where obsessive thoughts can lead to anxiety, negative emotions and sleepless nights. So, unplug from the news and social media buzz. Limit the time you spend consuming news.
- Be Sensible—Use your senses
Spend more time on activities using your five senses (see, smell, hear, touch and taste) to get back into the present reality and back into your body. Really focus on each of the senses to ground you.
- Look for signs of the natural world—grass, tree, clouds, the moon, birds flying…
- Smell the aroma of your favorite drink
- Carefully listen and identify all the surrounding noises; or listen to your favorite song
- Touch/feel the texture of your skin or your favorite shirt
- Taste and enjoy the bite of your favorite dish
This exercise gives a visceral reminder that you are alive and well.
- Stay Connected
Reach out to someone you care about and who cares about you. They are only a phone call away. Time spent communicating and sharing experiences can give you the emotional and mental support to weather through these challenging times. And it’s gratifying to know that you can give moral support by listening compassionately.
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