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Have you ever felt like you were spinning out of control? Sometimes, anxiety can make you feel as though you can’t slow down no matter how hard you try. But that feeling isn’t always rooted in reality; it’s often rooted in your perception of reality.

Don’t get me wrong, there are definitely times when it makes sense to feel anxious. Due to things beyond your control, it may be a natural response for you. I’m simply offering that surrendering your thoughts and feelings can make all the difference.

I’ve certainly had my fair share of overwhelming moments. In those moments, I’ve learned a great deal about my body’s response to stress and overwhelm, but I’ve also learned how to keep giving it back to God. Let me share some of that insight with you.

Listen to your life – When you’re dealing with anxious thoughts, it’s imperative that you take note of any physical and emotional shifts in your body. Much like a child struggling to communicate their needs, you may find it difficult to put to words exactly what you’re feeling, but you know you’re feeling something. It could be a persistent migraine or a stomach ache that you can no longer push through. It could also be forgetfulness or a loss of interest in things that once mattered to you. 

Sometimes, the signs of anxiety are obvious, and other times, they’re obvious to everyone else in your life. If those closest to you have made observations about how you’re showing up in relationships, it’s time to take a step back and reassess some things.

Examine the root of the anxiety – It’s important for me to note that sometimes the root of anxiety is a lack of self-care. And I don’t mean getting your nails done or going shopping. I mean the things you need to function well, like getting enough sleep, drinking enough water, eating nutritious meals, and getting fresh air. If you’re taking care of yourself as best you can, then take a closer look at what is causing you to feel worried, overwhelmed, and afraid. Oftentimes, anxiety is due to a perceived or actual inability to control a past, present, or future situation. 

I encourage you to write down everything that is currently weighing on your heart and then take a look at your thoughts. Are your concerns based on something you can change, or is it something truly out of your control? Don’t be discouraged if you still feel weighed down after getting all of your feelings out. This step is about becoming aware of what is going on in your body, in your mind, and your heart.

Decide not to live there – The enemy wants you to feel isolated and alone in your fear and despair, but there is always someone willing to support you and pray with you. My Inner Circle ladies are proof of this. If your anxious thoughts are keeping you from moving forward in life, consider reaching out to a counselor or a therapist. Much like a primary care doctor checks on the external, sometimes it takes a professional to step in and help you examine the internal.

If you find that the root of your anxious thoughts is a lack of trust in God, know that you will begin to get your days back as you release control and submit your concerns to God through prayer. Even if you have to do it a little at a time, you can trade in your worry for gratitude and your overwhelm for peace.

As Scripture reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phillippians 4:6-7)

Anxiety can rob you of your life. It’s difficult to be present when your mind is wrapped up in your past or focused on your future.

I want more for you. More importantly, God has more in store for you.

And my friend, you deserve to live and live well.

 

 

Highlights from Today’s Episode

  • Gleaning wisdom from Inside Out 2
  • Allowing anxiety to provide information
  • Giving everything to God in prayer
  • Making the constant decision to trust God

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Other Stuff to Check Out

Let’s Talk!

  1. What signals does your body send you when you are feeling anxious?
  2. How can you begin to surrender your concerns to God?
  3. Where is peace lacking in your life?
  4. How can you better care for yourself in moments of overwhelm and fear?

 

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