"Magic" to Calm your Anxiety
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Do you struggle with anxiety? Do you feel even more anxious if someone tells you to calm down? Do you find yourself so dialed into work that you don’t remember how to detach? Do you forget to take breaks? Are you convinced you wouldn’t be successful if you relax?
It is true that some level of stress can drive ambition, performance, and achievement. But, as with so many things, there is a point where the benefit of stress levels off and then performance takes a deep dive as the stress continues to climb.
It seems obvious then…manage the stress. Right?
Interestingly, it can be a bit tricky to convince people to take time, ANY amount time, to manage their stress. But, reducing stress to a healthy level will prevent burnout and even possibly/probably result in increased performance.
Sometimes shifting focus, even for a minute can reduce anxiety and allow you to get through your day without feeling like you sprinted through a marathon. So even if you don’t feel that you have the time to take, would you change your mind if it was just a one-minute recharge?
So as a treat, I’ll attach a download of a stereogram (remember the Magic Eye?), which you can use to briefly distance yourself from your work, change the way you are using your brain, and possibly disconnect in a way that is healthy and rejuvenating.
What’s the magic? It’s not magic! A stereogram is actually more about the science of perception. Using colors, patterns, and the layering of two-dimensional images so a new three-dimensional form can manifest. Allow your eyes to soften, blur and gaze through the image. Try holding it close to your face and then move it gradually away from your eyes. It might take a little practice, but that’s OK. One minute away from your work just might reduce your anxiety by changing you perspective.
Contents of this blog and throughout this site are intended as additional resources for people already in or considering psychotherapy. It is not a replacement for therapy and if at any point you feel you are in crisis, please call the National Crisis Line 1-844-493-8255, Text "Talk" to 38255, call 911, or go to your nearest emergency room. However, if you are interested in therapy and would like to consult with me about that, please click below to request a 15-minute free consult.