Understanding Anxiety: What Your Body Is Trying to Tell You
Shelja Ghai
M.A. Counseling Psychology
Anxiety isn't just a feeling β it's a full-body experience. When we understand what's happening physically, we can better respond to and manage these sensations.
The Physical Side of Anxiety
Your body's stress response, often called 'fight or flight,' evolved to protect you from danger. When activated, it triggers a cascade of physical changes:
Racing Heart: Your heart pumps faster to send blood to your muscles, preparing you to run or fight.
Rapid Breathing: You breathe faster to take in more oxygen for your muscles.
Muscle Tension: Your muscles tense up, ready for action.
Digestive Changes: Blood flow shifts away from digestion, which can cause stomach discomfort.
Why This Matters
Understanding these physical responses helps us realize that anxiety isn't dangerous β it's our body trying to protect us. The problem is that this response can be triggered by perceived threats (like social situations or deadlines) just as easily as real ones.
What You Can Do
When you notice these physical signs, try these approaches:
Remember, your anxiety is not your enemy. It's a messenger. Learning to listen to and work with it is a key part of the healing journey. π
About Shelja Ghai
Shelja is a counseling psychologist with an M.A. from Amity University. She's passionate about making mental health accessible and creates safe spaces for healing, growth, and self-discovery.