Anxiety infiltrates our inner peace and disrupts our overall well-being, leaving a detrimental impact on our physical health. It is often claimed that excessive worrying can be the root cause of severe ailments such as cancer and heart attacks.
A comprehensive psychological study reveals that the bodily aches and discomforts we experience during times of stress can potentially evolve into life-threatening illnesses.
When anxiety takes hold of me, I am plagued by palpitations, shortness of breath, and intensified pain. in areas that are usually sensitive.
In a misguided attempt to alleviate my stress, I convinced myself that smoking cigarettes would provide relief. However, unbeknownst to me, this habit was silently obstructing my arteries and damaging my lungs.
The act of inhaling the smoke falsely induced a sense of relaxation within me.
Reflecting on my late father’s experiences, I recall how his excessive worrying led to the development of a stomach ulcer, ultimately progressing to colorectal cancer.
Although it may seem unrelated, during his holistic therapy sessions, a specialist enlightened him about the connection between his worries and his deteriorating health.
In our journey through life, we often find ourselves consumed by worry over matters beyond our control, oblivious to the toll it takes on our well-being.
As humans, it is only natural to feel concerned about our loved ones, our finances, our health, and other aspects of our lives.
However, it is crucial to recognise that there are certain things we can influence, while others are governed by fate.
There is nothing inherently wrong with planning ahead and having something to look forward to. Denying ourselves the freedom of anticipation would be a disservice.
Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that not everything will unfold according to our desires, regardless of our beliefs. In such instances, all we can do is hold onto hope and accept the outcome.
Personally, I am a methodical individual when it comes to organising my life. I prefer to have a well-thought-out plan and dislike last-minute changes or tardiness.
This meticulous approach may not resonate with everyone, as some individuals thrive on spontaneity and adaptability. While their perspective is valid, it irritates me, as I find comfort in structure and order.
I tend to avoid getting caught up in chaotic situations because they trigger feelings of anxiety and stress, even when I’m not the one in charge.
It seems that those who procrastinate and leave things until the last minute experience less stress, as they are comfortable with living in a disorganised manner.
However, if everyone adopted this approach, our lives would be filled with chaos and lack any real purpose.
To cope with anxiety, we must acknowledge that we cannot always have control over every situation, whether in our own lives or the lives of our loved ones. We can only offer advice, support, and prayers, as we cannot be in multiple places at once.
We lack control over what the future holds for us, let alone for others. Therefore, the best we can do is be mindful of the choices we make in our own lives.
Although I will always experience anxieties, I must learn to differentiate between the ones I can act on and the ones that are beyond my control.
In everything, there must be a balance.
Natalie M Bleau
The Scripture of Balance
