The world has changed. There is an intense amount of uncertainty facing society today, thanks to political division and life-threatening viruses. Among other serious concerns! Around the globe, people are doing their best to adapt to these ever-changing circumstances…but sometimes fear takes over. Have you been hoarding toilet paper or snapping at your neighbor? Maybe you have been glued to the latest news story. Or can’t sleep at night because of all your racing thoughts. Fear can manifest itself in many different ways. The most important thing to do is learn to handle fear effectively. There are many strategies that can benefit your life and help you find an inner sense of calm.
Handle Fear by Focusing on What Is Instead of What Could Be
There are many symptoms related to fear. According to the Mental Health Foundation, you may find that your heart is beating fast, you can’t breathe properly, you feel dizzy or sick, you have difficulty concentrating, you are sweating a lot, or your stomach churns. When fear takes over it is important to recognize the signs. From there you can either push through the fear (understanding that sometimes life is scary and we have to move forward regardless) or re-focus your mind away from the fear. Most of the time, we worry about things that could be rather than things that are. So, take a moment to focus on what is.
For instance, if you are afraid of getting sick, take stock of what your reality is at the present moment. Write it down or say aloud, “right now, in this moment, I am healthy and strong. I have everything I need to keep me safe.” On the flip side, if you are dealing with an illness, say something like, “I am in the process of getting better. I have excellent people taking care of me and everything I need to be healthy and healed.” Focusing on what is could be as simple as remembering that you are alive and have plenty to be grateful for.
Overcome Fear by Making Time for Regular Exercise
It is no secret. There are many workout benefits to consider. From improved health to increased strength and improved mood. The list goes on and on. Did you know that fear and anxiety are also on that list? Both can be reduced through regular movement. Studies have shown that working out is effective at calming down the nervous system and producing feel-good hormones in the body. That in itself can alleviate (or balance out) intense moments and better prepare you to handle fear. Feeling afraid? Go for a brisk walk on your lunch break, do jumping jacks in your living room, or tackle a few sets of squats. It is always possible to add a little exercise to your day.
In addition to the physical benefits, there are also mental benefits. For starters, working out can boost your confidence. That in turn makes it easier for you to handle fearful moments. Just think about a stressful meeting. If you feel more confident overall, the fear won’t seem quite so all-consuming. Exercise can also be a welcome distraction. Scared? Anxious? Can’t seem to slow down the thoughts racing through your mind? Working out gives you something else to think about. Rather than overthinking the same situation on an endless loop… you can be thinking about how many bicep curls you have completed.
Say So Long to Fear with Visualization Techniques
There are many ways to handle fear. If re-focusing your mind and exercise aren’t on the top of that to-do list, visualization might be more your speed. During a fearful moment, take a breath. Stop and visualize yourself looking and feeling confident. See yourself safe. See yourself accomplishing everything you are afraid of. Picture yourself calm. Picture yourself at your very best. This strategy can allow you to handle fear in a more positive way. It makes you feel more capable and truly helps put those fearful situations and thoughts into perspective.
If you find it challenging to visualize your way out of fear…there are many guided meditations. One quick search is all it takes to breathe easier and release the fears that may be holding you back. Here is one such guided meditation:
Tackle Fear by Using Crystals Thoughtfully
Crystals are not for everyone. However, they are an effective healing modality for many. Especially those looking to handle fear in a more constructive way. Certain stones have the ability to bring forth feelings of confidence, peace, and calm. They are able to aid in emotional balance. To remove negative energy and allow positivity into your life. If your fear-based thoughts are causing an imbalance in your life, don’t be afraid to make good use of crystals. Place them thoughtfully around your home. Carry a stone or two in your pocket. Wear a crystal around your neck. There are many ways to add crystal healing to your life.
Not sure which stones are best? Here are a few of the best crystals for fear: green calcite (used to overcome fear and self-imposed limitations), fire agate (for protection and to calm strong emotions), moonstone (to reduce fearful feelings related to the future), amethyst (for healing and emotional balance), and black kyanite (to cut ties to toxicity and release fearful and negative thoughts). Use one stone or a combination of crystals to handle fear with ease.
Don’t know how to handle fear? There are many ways to go about it. Whether you choose to re-focus your mind, exercise, use visualization techniques, or add crystals to your life…it is time to move forward feeling calm and balanced.
