Rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath and negative thoughts are typical symptoms when experiencing anxiety. When you are experiencing these types of reactions due to anxiety you can feel like your world is ruled by these emotional and visceral sensations. Since this can be uncomfortable you could find ways to numb out which in turn can make your mental state worse. This can often cause you to believe your negative thoughts that come with this experience.
Mindfulness allows you to turn towards your bodily sensations instead of trying to avoid what your body is trying to tell you. Although turning towards anxiety and the negative thoughts that can occupy your mind might seem counterproductive it is in fact the opposite. You will actually learn more from exploring these thoughts than avoiding them. You will learn acceptance and compassion for yourself which can cause your outlook in the world to change.
We will work together to find what coping skills work best for you and learn how new ones can lessen your anxiety. I do not typically give out homework for clients; however I have found that it is helpful to have goals in order to track change. When you are in the midst of anxiety homework might feel overwhelming, however having something tangible to follow personal transformation can help you chart progress being made.
