Our minds are powerful, and with that power comes responsibility. We are the owners of every single thought and emotion that we experience, both good and bad. Anxiety, stress, depression, fear, generosity, forgiveness, and love, are all within our control. We have the choice to cultivate positivity or negativity within ourselves. This realisation is truly liberating - we own our emotions, our thinking, and our mental wellbeing.
Anxiety often arises when we feel that we have no control over the things around us. We believe that if we can control everything, it will bring us freedom and happiness. However, the reality is that the outer world is never fully within our control, but the choices we make are. Our choices influence the outcomes we experience.
When anxiety arises, the root cause is often a feeling of discomfort and a lack of control. We panic because we are used to telling ourselves that we are always in control, but in this moment, we can't control the feeling that has a hold on us. However, we must remember that we are in control of our mental state. Thoughts are incredibly powerful, and if left unchecked, they can lead to uncomfortable, unwanted, and overwhelming emotions.
To regain control of the mind, we must bring it back to its natural state - calm, clear, and in flow with reality. Meditation can help us settle unwanted feelings by allowing us to take control of the mind. After all, the mind is what controls the body and emotions. If we don't have control of the mind, we can't control anything else.
Reflection is another powerful tool to unpack and unravel the mind. By knowing ourselves, our habits, and our thinking patterns, we become conscious human beings. Reflection helps us to identify our triggers and to recognise when anxiety begins to arise.
If you're feeling emotionally uncomfortable and that sinking feeling of anxiety begins to arise, remember that the mind controls emotions and the body. To bring yourself back to your natural state, try meditating and focusing on a single point of the body, such as the breath. This centres the mind and allows for greater clarity. Once the mind is centred, reflect on what was happening leading up to the anxiety, what it felt like, where the uncomfortable feeling began in the body, and how you are feeling now.
Life is impermanent, and nothing lasts forever. This too shall pass, anxiety included. We must contemplate this reality and understand that life is a series of personal choices. By being curious about the way we think, speak, and act, we can begin to know ourselves without judgment. This self-exploration leads to peace of mind and improved wellbeing.
Daniel Troyak is a Mindfulness-based Therapist.
With his support, unpack and unravel the contents of the mind.
Learn the tools for emotional healing so you can live a happy, calm and peaceful life.