04/24/2021
So you've now practiced and brought full awareness to your negative habits associated with every time you feel anxious. So naturally, step 3 is to implement new habits! (If you're lost reading this, check out my last 2 posts!)⠀
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As Psychiatrist Judson Brewer mentions in his book "Unwinding Anxiety", this is often where the common advice comes in on ways to help relieve anxiety. But we don't really have space for new habits when we're still ruled by the old ones, and that's why steps 1 & 2 are key to actually have your new healthy habits STICK!⠀
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Brewer suggests the next time you feel anxious, instead of grabbing for a smoke, or a snack, or your phone, just get curious and mindful. What does it feel like, and where? How does it change? Now try to actively implement your new habit. Maybe it's some deep breaths, maybe going for a short walk. ⠀
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By practicing all three steps, Brewer encourages us to work WITH our minds, instead of feeling like we're constantly fighting against it. It's not easy, and it won't always go the way we wish, but if you're trying to ditch some negative habits associated with your anxiety, this is the way to go!
