Healing and Hypnotherapy Volume 5, Issue -3, 1 September 2020

spontaneous and uncontrollable. Yes, we can force ourselves to think happy thoughts, but this is not a true solution: it is simply a practice of superimposing thoughts on top of other thoughts. Although realising that you can’t control your thoughts may be a little depressing, ultimately, it is liberating. You no longer have to shame yourself for thinking a certain way or fear that you are not good enough because you can’t think positively. Understanding that you cannot control your thoughts, but you CAN become aware of them, helps you to dis - identify with them, and therefore, stop suffering. 15. Stop fighting how you feel Resistance to your fear creates even more tension and fear. Instead, allow yourself to feel whatever you’re feeling. Stay grounded through your breath and gently explore whatever is arising inside of you. 16. Stay grounded in the present moment Practice mindful awareness (https://lonerwolf.com/mindfulness-practices/) to take you out of your head and into the present. Notice the colours, sounds, smells, textures, tastes, and different feelings in your body. Anchor yourself to the Now by noticing what is happening.   17. See anxiety as a teacher, not an enemy When we demonise anxiety, we tend to increase our anxiety; this is because we are resisting what we are experiencing and labelling it as bad. Try to change your perspective. Understand that everything in life can be a teacher if we let it. Anxiety may just be your greatest teacher in life, helping you to develop self-awareness (https://lonerwolf.com/self-awareness/), mindfulness, compassion, and ultimately the ability to surrender to that which is beyond your control. 18. It’s OK to feel scared It’s completely normal to feel afraid and anxious. So many people out there share your struggles. Being vulnerable to life isn’t a failure, in fact, admitting that you’re scared is actually a form of strength. It’s also normal to feel anxious about your anxiety! 19. Spend time alone to recuperate each day

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