Mental Health Self-Care

Recovering from Anxiety With Movement

November 12, 2019

I've tried to be pretty open and transparent about my experiences with anxiety. I do this because I can't express how powerful and helpful it felt to have someone who could relate tell me exactly what I was feeling. Exactly what I was thinking. And if I could do that for someone else, it might just be their turning point towards light. Like it was for me.

When I reflect on what I went through, the most common thought I find myself having is, "I can't believe that happened to me. How could that have happened to me?" While I acknowledge that its not a particularly helpful thought... it is true. It's hard to reconcile what I know about myself with the person I was for those anxiety-ridden weeks. Getting through it, and staying healthy since, took medicine, cognitive behavioral therapy, and several lifestyle changes - one of which has brought so much joy to my life: yoga.

I mean, there's a reason its been around for thousands of years. It has numerous substantial health benefits, and it is for everyone. It can be modified to suit disabilities, physical challenges, chronic illness, injuries, seniors, or anyone who isn't comfortable in a class. You can go to a fancy studio, a class at your gym/community center, or watch a YouTube video. There are various styles and it's all yoga. (I looooove that.)

Slowing down, making time for myself, and working on my practice has filled my cup in a profound way. And yes, sometimes I need to trick myself into exercising (I pre-pay and sign up for classes with a 24-hr cancellation policy... so I have to go) but I have never, not once, regretted showing up. Spending even one hour a week meditating, reflecting, and getting stronger has been incredibly healing. It has saved me time and time again.

Yoga Then Tacos

Did you know that yoga....?

increases blood flow
decreases blood pressure
protects your spine
relaxes your nervous system
improves digestion
reduces inflammation
lowers blood sugar
fights arthritis
boosts your immune system
improves breathing
improves balance

And those are just a few of the physical benefits. There are also important mental and emotional perks - like increasing mindfulness, helping focus, and encouraging self-care.

Yoga is my preferred exercise, but really, all movement has contributed to my recovery. Late-afternoon walks, strength training, hiking, dancing. Moving your body can literally help decrease depression and anxiety. It improves sleep, mood and energy levels, and self-esteem.

So this is your reminder for today to get moving! Walk outside, exercise at home, swing by the gym, dance in the kitchen. Do what you can, and give yourself grace. ❤️