Some of you have been telling me you can’t quite figure out the words to describe how you’re feeling these days. With the country opening back up, yet feeling the threat is still too near, yes, words and feelings can be difficult to articulate.

However, even when the words don’t flow and the feelings can’t be articulated, you want something to help you stay steady, maintain your focus, and know that, this too, shall pass.

Here are 3 quick and easy ideas:

1. Self-compassion:
These are still uncertain times where no one has the 100% definitive answer. That said, why should you!! As you continue to make decisions for yourself and family, remember to have self-compassion. This means not beating yourself up if you don’t know what to do in every different situation. It’s okay to admit that you don’t know something – the best you can do is act from the best information you have.

2. Go slower:
For the last few months, I’ve gotten far too many emails telling me I need to “do this” and “do that” so I’ll be ‘ready’ when this is all over. Those emails immediately go to my trash. No one knows when this will be over and if someone is constantly ‘getting ready’ for it to be over, they could be missing out on life right now-yes there are a lot of good things still happening-acknowledge and stay grateful.

However for those who do want to “do this” and “do that”, that’s fine. But if that’s not you, going slower is just fine too. It’s your life and you get to set the pace for it and if taking some time out and going slower is what you need, then it’s what you need.

3. Don’t scare your Amygdala:
Yes, you read that right. Your amygdala in your brain alerts you to danger thus it serves a very important role, but it makes a lot of mistakes. It doesn’t want to miss even one time of not alerting you to danger, just in case the situation really is dangerous. You know when it’s activated-it’s that feeling when you brake just in time and miss the car ahead of you by a half an inch-yep, you’re revved up now. That was dangerous so it makes sense for it to activate.

But what about possible thoughts or images you’re having about the virus now, life in general, worrying about your family, yourself,  and all the what ifs?

These thoughts are NOT dangerous, uncomfortable yes, but not dangerous.

Question is: what kinds of thoughts or images are you having lately? The reason to become more aware of those is because those very thoughts and images you dwell on can scare your amygdala and bring about feelings of anxiety. Everyone is living with uncertainty and that uncertainty, born of thoughts and images, can keep a person living on Anxiety Cove-something no one needs right now.

FYI-if you’d like to learn more about how to relocate from living on Anxiety Cove to Peace and Calm Boulevard, drum roll please, I’m now a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. It’s been over a year in the making, and now, I’m ready to help you with even more practical and evidence based information, skills, and strategies. Call me and let’s discuss how I may be able to help you.

Last, for me keeping it simple and slower, means The Phoenix (this newsletter) will be taking a break until Fall 2020. I’d still love to hear from you so feel free to email or call to inquire how I may be of service.

As always, I love helping women live happier lives. Whether you call it depression, anxiety, stress, or nerves, I’d like to help. I invite you to call me at 512.680.2874 for your free up-to-15-minute phone consultation. Let’s discuss how I may be able to help.

And remember, TBC is completely online now, which frees up your time so you can enjoy your life more!

Looking forward to hearing your story and helping you feel better,

Dr. B.