Running Anxiety

As someone who suffers from recurring anxiety and panic attacks, Louise Hay has a terrific concept, Running Anxiety, according to Hay, this is the feeling of impending doom that one feels when life is good. She positions anxiety as a means of protection. When one becomes anxious the body immediately responds by going into “fight or flight” mode. This is the mind, in essence, preparing (protectively) the body to respond to whatever ensuing threat, be it real, physical, and present or if it’s simply “threats” that our minds (worry) creates. The sub-conscious mind and the body doesn’t know the difference between real threats and perceived threats. So running anxiety is a habitual means many of us allows to keep us on our toes. I love Hay’s theory, and I use the term often. And when I am visited by running anxiety, I simply response, “Thank you for loving me and protecting me, however, things are wonderful and there’s nothing to fear. I got this.” usually the time spent with it (because I don’t deny it nor escape from it), the time I spend feeling it, acknowledging it, loving, and releasing it, is usually enough time to calm my body, thoughts, and my nerves. A quick google search brought up the following Q/A on anxiety attacks and Louise Hay’s response.

Dear Louise,
I’ve been experiencing anxiety attacks. What should I do to avoid this awful feeling? I’ve also been very depressed, and I’ve lost faith.  G.G., Puerto Rico

Anxiety attacks can come from feeling helpless about both emotional and physical stresses encountered in daily life. Lack of B vitamins can stress the nerves; even drugs like Prozac put us at risk for panic attacks. Going through the day holding our breath can also contribute to these feelings. Your thinking is so mixed up that you’re frightening yourself.

You need to sit down and take several deep breaths and be aware that Life loves you. Say to yourself: “All is well. Out of this situation only good will come, and I am safe.” Repeat this to yourself over and over. Keep breathing. Go for a walk. Exercise is good for reducing panic. Breathe deeply as you walk, and find as many things as you can to appreciate and be grateful for. It sounds simple, but simple things work the best.

Make sure you eat well—that means no junk food. Magnesium would be good to take for your nerves. You will come out of this. You will turn your life around for the better. I know you can do it!

http://www.inlightimes.com/archives/2004/10/louise-hay.htm

Louise L Hay is a metaphysical teacher and best-selling author of 27 book s including, You Can Heal Your Life, Empowering Women, Meditations to Heal Your Life, Letters to Louise, and The Power Is Within You.  Since beginning her career as a Science of Mind minister in 1981, she has assisted thousands of people in discovering and using the full potential of their own creative powers for personal growth and self-healing. Louise’s works have been translated into 25 different languages in 33 countries.