Using Mindfulness To Cope With Anxiety Attacks

Anxiety attacks can hit you out of nowhere. Those sensations of tightness in the chest, knots in the stomach and those overwhelming feelings of fear can bring you to your knees. Anxiety attacks can be overwhelming and debilitating, but practicing mindfulness can help you cope with them. Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and fully engaged in your surroundings, thoughts, and emotions. Here are some ways to use mindfulness to cope with anxiety attacks:

1. Focus on your breath: When you feel an anxiety attack coming on, take a moment to focus on your breath. Take slow, deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. This can help slow down your heart rate and calm your mind.

2. Observe your thoughts: Instead of getting caught up in your anxious thoughts, try to observe them without judgment. Acknowledge them, but don't let them control you. Remember that thoughts are not facts, and they don't define who you are.

3. Use your senses: Engage your senses by focusing on what you can see, hear, touch, taste, and smell. This can help ground you in the present moment and distract you from your anxious thoughts.

4. Practice self-compassion: Be kind and gentle with yourself during an anxiety attack. Remember that it's okay to feel anxious, and that you're not alone. Treat yourself with the same compassion and understanding that you would offer to a friend.

5. Seek professional help: If you're struggling with anxiety attacks, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor or mental health coach. They can help you develop coping strategies and provide support as you navigate your anxiety.

Mindfulness is a practice, and it takes time and patience to develop. But with consistent effort, it can be a powerful tool for coping with anxiety attacks and improving your overall well-being.