Am I Addicted to Anxiety? How to Navigate and Soothe Anxious Feelings
Hello, Anxiety. I know you're there.
I try to push you away, shove you down, and ignore you. You scare me sometimes. I even ask myself, “Why am I so worried? What’s so big that I need to feel anxious about it?”
It's an odd relationship, anxiety and I. Here, in the present moment, everything is safe. Life feels spacious, calm. So, am I addicted to anxiety?
First, let's clarify—I’m not talking about clinical anxiety disorder but the more familiar feeling of anxiousness that comes and goes, often uninvited. It's that whirring sensation under the surface, always asking, "What if?" For much of my life, that feeling was there in the background, motivating me, keeping me alert and ready to respond. Anxiety did serve a purpose for me:
It kept me on high alert, making sure I was always attentive to my surroundings.
It drove me to do better, to strive for more.
Sometimes it kept me off the couch because what if I stayed there all day? I’d feel lazy, right?
It pushed me to keep moving forward, striving for that perfect moment when I could finally rest. Funny thing is, that moment never seems to come.
The race that never ends...
But lately, I’ve learned to pay attention to where anxiety lives in my body. I’ve also experienced what it’s like when it’s not there. And honestly, it feels a little strange. When anxiety does show up again, part of me worries it might take over, make itself comfortable, and stay for good! Yet, maybe anxiety is just asking for some attention. It’s been part of me for so long, it’s almost like an old friend who just needs to be acknowledged.
So, how do we gently respond when anxiety comes knocking?
Here are a few simple steps to help ease the feeling:
Tune In. Ask yourself, “What’s happening inside?” Notice the sensations in your body. Where are they located? Shape, movement, color, texture? Get to know the sensations. Notice the thoughts in your mind. Thoughts are part of tuning in and a part of meditation. Getting to know your thoughts and as importantly, how you’re talking to yourself can be of great value. Notice your breathing pattern. Is it shallow or deep? Are you holding your breath? Get curious with compassion.
Invite in the Word Relax.
Relax your jaw.
Relax your mind.
Relax your shoulders, neck, and arms. Stretch if it feels good.
Relax your heart space, belly, glutes and hips.
Relax your thighs, knees, calves, ankles, and toes.
Breathe. Take a deep breath, then exhale slowly. Place your hand on your heart and feel its rhythm. Add pressure if that feels good. Breathe a little more deeply and slowly. Exhale even longer. Notice the impact of intentional breathing.
Smile. A gentle smile can help shift your mood and bring a sense of calm.
Affirm. Say to yourself, "I am here. I am safe. I am okay."
Breathe. Exhale.
Place a hand on your heart
Breathe.
Exhale.
We don’t need to fight anxiety. Instead, we can acknowledge its presence, give it some attention, and gently guide it out of the driver’s seat. Remember, you are not your anxiety. And when you take a moment to breathe, relax, and smile, you remind yourself that you’re in control. You are safe. You are okay.
We’re in this together. I’m cheering you on, my friend.
Sending you calm and love always,
💚
Molly
P.S. If you’re ready to explore more ways to bring calm and balance into your life, I invite you to join me in a coaching session where we can navigate these feelings together. Sometimes, all it takes is a little support to move from anxiety to peace. I look forward to connecting with you anytime you’re ready.
Hi there!
I’m Molly Knutson-Keller, a life-long learner, meaning-maker and joy-creator. And I can’t wait to meet you.
Professional Life Coach, Certified Enneagram Coach & Teacher, Somatic Practitioner, ELCA Pastor
““Molly has become a partner with me in a journey of deep learning and profound care. She creates a welcoming space of empathy, deep wisdom and abiding grace for all those seeking healing and hope. Her knowledge of the Enneagram adds personal depth to every conversation. In Molly’s company, I can be fully myself with all my scars and joys. She is a rare expression of God’s grace. I leave her company with wisdom for today, and hope for tomorrow.“”
