Reclaiming Calm in a Busy World - Easons Carlow Event
Anxiety affects many people throughout life, it can feel like a perpetual unease or it can have more serious consequences, described by anxiety disorders. It robs your energy, hides your true identity, while lots of life's opportunities pass you by.
In my book Seven C's to Calm, I outline what has made a difference in my own life. This month I'll share some of these insights with you during the launch of an initiative for Carlow authors sponsored by Easons. Join us on October 19th for the first of these local author events, which coincides with National Book Week.
Click the image to reserve your place.
Event Details:
Have a cuppa and reconnect on Thursday at 7.30pm at Easons, Fairgreen Shopping Centre. There's limited seating so come early. I'll be speaking about reclaiming calm in a busy world. Full details are available via the event link - reserve your place so we know to expect you.
This event is also about creating a space for local authors to show-case their work in a nationwide store that is now fully owned by Easons.
Thanks to the management of Easons for engaging with me throughout the year with the view to making this initiative a reality.
A Better Life:
Even if you're not currently affected by anxiety, chances are it's affecting someone your know. Having a better understanding of the challenges and solutions means you'll be more empowered to help others. Both of my books are available in Carlow Easons so check them out when you pop in, also available online: The Whisperings of Nature (Poetry) and Seven C's to Calm - Reclaiming your Anxiety-free Self.
Join our Authentic Path Explorers newsletter for additional invites, inspiration and occasional offers by adding your name and email to the sign up page.
Anxiety as a focus-robber & what to do about it - Access to Webinar
Anxiety is a massive saboteur of mental focus and clarity. The implications for your career and quality of life are significant and there are financial implications too.
In November 2018 the Irish Times journal reported a cost of over € 8.2 billion a year to the Irish economy due to mental health issues, with 6.3% of people being affected by anxiety disorder. Anxiety is not particular to the Irish population, so it's safe to say that the impact to the global economy is surely immense.
Anxiety can manifest in lots of ways, affecting people at various stages throughout their lives. You might experience it as a perpetual nagging unease or it can have more serious consequences, described by anxiety disorders.
Ultimately, it's a grand sneaky robber of focus, eroding your energy, creativity and productivity. Not only do people fail to achieve their goals, they miss out on a life that could have been theirs.
Isn't it time to do something more about the impact anxiety is having on your career and quality of life?
Caroline Cunningham Author of Seven C's to Calm
A Step Towards a Better Life:
Problems rarely get solved all by themselves. By openly discussing anxiety, sharing experience and knowledge, we create the awareness that leads to positive change. Here's an invitation to take a step to a better life that requires only 20 mintues of your time while logged into your LinkedIn account.
Join myself and Catherine Mattice, the inspirational founder of award winning Civility Partners in this episode of Catherine's Corner (webinar) as we address the topic of focus robbing anxiety.
Take another step towards a better life and discover a more authentic you. Seven C's to Calm - Reclaiming your Anxiety-free Self is purposely simple to get you started without overwhelm. My book is based on my own experience of what has worked in my life. It has helped many readers to take action in restoring calm. And there's a workbook included so you can start implementing the strategy straight away!
A Better Life for All:
Anxiety is a topic that is often goes unmentioned so even if you're not currently affected by anxiety, chances are someone you know is having this experience. Having a better understanding of the challenges and solutions means you'll be more empowered to help others to take steps towards a better life for themselves.
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Another Small Step:
Would you like inspiration for making your life more amazing? Join our Authentic Path Explorers newsletter for the latest insights, tips, event invites and offers by adding your name and email to the sign up page.
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How I Changed my Life through Authentic Path Personalised Wellness Programme
In challenging times, people are at more risk of sliding into danger zones that result in brain fog, crippling anxiety, depression, lost sense of purpose and even burn out.
This is one woman’s story of how she succeeded despite many obstacles. The COVID-19 lockdown had forced her into solitary isolation in the countryside a few months after her husband and best friend died. She had put her career on hold to take care of him throughout his debilitating illness which he bravely endured. Sarah Jane found it difficult to get back on track after so much sudden change which felt more like a nightmare.
Contact Caroline for Personalised Wellbeing Coaching
Coaching had always been part of my therapy service, ensuring added value for my clients. In-person therapy work was not possible during lockdowns so I proposed a six week (online) wellness coaching programme to Sarah-Jane and she agreed to give it a go. Through my coaching skills I empower clients in creating effective self-care strategies to make a difference in their lives. This is an account of how we worked together to make this happen and Sarah Jane has kindly allowed me to share her experience after completing the personalised programme.
"Coaching has always been part of my therapy service, ensuring added value for my clients."
Our first session was by WhatsApp video call, with me sitting in my car to get some privacy and space. By our next session we were both using Zoom and I had found some headphones. At first it was hard for Sarah Jane to see any signs of progress despite her best intentions and efforts. Luckily for her, I had the benefit of seeing the bigger picture and was able to guide her towards feeling that she could tackle anything, including anxiety, brain fog and grief.
After six sessions, weekly progress reports and two months later, we were still in lockdown but circumstances had improved considerably. Sarah Jane had reclaimed her mental focus, lots of calm and a zest for life.
"I had the benefit of seeing the bigger picture and was able to guide her towards feeling that she could tackle anything, including anxiety, brain fog and grief."
Authentic Path Coach & Wellbeing Sherpa
The corner-stone of our work together was that Sarah Jane learned how to curb her anxiety, with the added assistance of my book ‘Seven C’s to Calm – Reclaiming your Anxiety-free Self’. I offered gentle encouragement & suggestions and within a few weeks Sarah Jane had devised a self-care routine suited completely to her own needs and she even found a way to manage her time effectively.
She achieved many of her goals, such as participating in on-line courses for both business skills and personal interest. She engaged in on-line networking events and sought support from her local enterprise office for developing her business. She took up gardening and experimented with cooking.
"When Sarah Jane chatted with her friends through video-call, they noticed a significant change in her mood and appearance. Sarah Jane was feeling a lot more in charge of her life, all this within two months and still living through lockdown."
Authentic Path Coach & Wellbeing Sherpa
I was thrilled for her success and it was exciting to discover that I could use video call technology to help clients to turn their lives around, through focusing on their selfcare.
Find out what Sarah Jane has to say about Authentic Path Wellness Coaching
Interview:
Coach Caroline: How beneficial has the personalised coaching programme been for you?
Sarah Jane:Extremely beneficial. I was really struggling and stuck in a rut. I had no idea how to get myself out of it. The coaching sessions came at just the right time for me, when I needed it the most.
Coach Caroline: What have been the most significant benefits for you of taking part in these sessions?
Sarah Jane:I'd say having the opportuntiy to 'talk-it-out' and having someone to listen to me, who can 'get' what is going on with me and helping me to put in place a step by step self-care routine. Also, I am more aware of the signs of anxiety and stress and am able to do things that reduce their effects. these would be the biggest benefits.
Coach Caroline: How has your life improved as a result of taking part in our coaching sessions:
Sarah Jane:I now have much better quality of life, having introduced regular yoga and mediation and other self-care routines and I feel so much better for it. My anxiety and stress levels are radically reduced. I also have steps I can follow if at any time I feel anxious.
Coach Caroline: In your opinion, who can benefit the most from Authentic Path Sessions?
Sarah Jane:Anyone and everyone. My circumstance was that I was suffering from anxiety and stress following my husband’s death. I was going through a complete life transition and needed help to see a way forward. I think these sessions are perfect for someone who is looking for a change of job or career or starting a new business or for someone who is caring for a loved one during their illness. These are times when we need to take care of ourselves most and probably need some extra support.
Coach Caroline: In our weekly sessions we touched on areas such as empowerment, restoration of calm, professional identity and life purpose, positive mindset, acknowledgement of achievements and we discussed the process of grief. Is there anything else you would add to this list of what was addressed in our sessions?
Sarah Jane:Building confidence and self-esteem
Coach Caroline: What rating would you give for the level of support you received in each of these areas we addressed in our Authentic Path Wellness sessions (Rating of 1 to 5 with 5 being the highest level of support).
Sarah Jane:Definitely a 5
Coach Caroline: Did you feel weekly sessions were the right level of spacing for checking in with you and to allow for progress to take place?
Sarah Jane:For me a block of 6 weekly sessions was about right. The time allotted to the session allowed me to talk about how I felt, recall what I did or didn’t do and to learn a new technique and during the week I was able to practice the new techniques and make some changes to my routine. Since completing the six week programme a few months ago I have continued to use all the tools I learnt on the course.
Coach Caroline: How would you rate the following aspects of my coaching skills based on our sessions and rating of one to five, five being the score that indicates the best impression made:
Listening Skills - Did you feel heard?
Empathy Level - Did you feel understood?
Matching your needs with useful strategies.
Helping you to identify meaningful goals.
Setting appropriate actions (homework)
Sarah Jane: 5 for all areas
Coach Caroline: What matters most to you when choosing me as a wellness coach, would it be my experience as a holistic therapist, or my authentic path story of ‘walking the talk’, my extensive qualifications or the fact I’m author with creative achievements who’s been in the media? Why would choose me above others offering a similar service?
Sarah Jane:Having read your book ‘Seven C’s to Calm’ I knew, that you would know a lot about what I had being going through. Your website also highlights your authenticity and qualifications and shows your professionalism and enthusiasm for helping others with their wellness.
Coach Caroline: Do you feel the title Authentic Path Session is appropriate for the service provided?
Sarah Jane:I like the title, it sounds unique and creative and is reflective of being true to yourself on your own path.
Coach Caroline: At the heart of our sessions we dealt with anxiety and how to move beyond this limiting condition. Do you feel there is a still a stigma around discussing our mental health?
Sarah Jane:I noticed that whenever I chatted to people about anxiety before the lockdown, I was met with silence. I felt I was the only one and that it wasn’t a “real” condition. Since COVID-19 pandemic where life has changed so drastically, I’ve discovered that all my friends have suffered from it and we are now able to openly talk about it, in other words it has become more acceptable to talk about it.
Coach Caroline: Is there anything else you would like to add about our work together?
Sarah Jane:Fabulous course Caroline, really valued the time you spent with me and I enjoyed the sessions very much
This feedback has been kindly given by Sarah Jane whose name has been changed to respect her request to maintain her privacy.
Do you want to achieve your goals and to successfully manage your life no matter what challenges come your way? Whether you're impacted by low energy, unable to focus or feeling anxious or stressed, I help you find ways to move beyond these obstacles and create a plan with strategies that suit your particular situation. All this can be achieved in my personalised wellness coaching programme as described by Sarah Jane.
If you’re not ready to invest in personalised coaching you can get started with my Focus for Success 6 Week Programme, an online course complete with workbooks, strategies and assessment tools.
Choose Your Path to Wellness & Success
Seven C's to Calm - Reclaiming your Anxiety-free Self
Carlow Library a Valuable Resource for Creativity & Wellbeing
Carlow town and county has a great resource in the form of it’s County Library (Tullow Street, Carlow). Formerly a Presentation Convent school, the building has been adapted to combine with the County Musuem and Tourist Office.
While the main library is bright, airy and modern, it has also retained a room of special character from the buildings original use as convent school. This room is known as The Shaw Room in acknowledgement of Carlow’s connection with acclaimed writer George Bernard Shaw who bequeathed part of his legacy to Carlow town enabling the beginnings of Carlow Library.
The Shaw Room is a valuable asset of the library and may be provided for use by local community groups and individuals for the purposes of education, exhibition and demonstration (this requires advance booking and consultation with the library).
As a creative Carlovian, I have been very fortunate to have had use of the Library’s Shaw Room on a number of occasions. I have used it to launch my art collection ‘The Sacred Lives of Trees’and two self-published books and to present a well-being workshop and a singing performance (all within a 12 month period).
During these events, I have had the full support of the library staff. I am sincerely grateful for their warm welcome and assistance on every occasion. Although they tell me I am no trouble to them at all, they always made sure I had everything I needed.
Through Carlow County Library, I made very useful connections with other groups such as ‘Glor Ceatharlach’ (promoting Irish Language) and Carlow Mental Health association (Mensana).
When RTE’s 'Nationwide' reporter, Helen Mc Inerney invited me to be featured as an author on topic of anxiety, I was delighted to share that limelight with my friends at Carlow County Library.
An atmosphere of mutual support and promotion is something to be encouraged and it is especially welcomed by those of us in the arts, who provide inspiration and well-being benefits in our wider community.
Visit Carlow Library on Facebook Page or via their Website or simply drop in to their fine building on Tullow Street, Carlow to find out about their range of services and events which includes genealogy and learning supports.
And the good news is that my books are on their shelves too:
Huge thanks to Woman’s Way Magazine for granting me my first paid writer’s commission!
This is my published article which tells you why I am passionate about encouraging people to BE AUTHTENTIC!
"Have you ever told someone you love to ‘just be yourself’? Maybe you were trying to help an adult or a child to be at ease in a situation they were anxious about, like starting a new school or job.
When I was growing up, there were times when I wished someone could have handed an instruction book on ‘How to be Yourself’! Looking back, I realise it had a lot to do with understanding the world around me and getting to grips with how I could play my part, with an optimistic outlook.
But for many years I didn’t have this insight, I was plodding along, ignoring signs that all was not well. Eventually stress, anxiety and tension led to distress and emotional turmoil. I was forced to stop and examine how I had ended up in this situation. I call it my moment of ‘Break True’, it is also the title of one of my subsequent paintings.
The year was 1999. I left a teaching career in the countryside and headed to the city to find employment that would allow me the space and time to change my ways. I have never regretted this decision.
It was a time when access to online information was not as apparent and our society was still coy about addressing self-care and mental health awareness. The idea of someone ‘following their dreams’ would have seemed ‘whimsical’ to many. I quietly got on with my studies in the arts and at the same time developed a curiosity in the area of healing.
Here I was finally, discovering the instruction book I craved as a teenager. I call it my ‘Authentic Path’ and for my current work as a visual artist, writer and reflexology therapist, I use the tag-line ‘Inspiring your Authentic Path’ as my goal.
I want to share with you what being authentic means to me and why I believe it’s important for our wellbeing and happiness. I used to be full of anxiety, lacking in assertiveness, with unhelpful negative beliefs. I was no stranger to mental anguish and physical pain from time to time. I was spending my valuable energy hiding my true nature and gifts from everyone, including myself.
Finding my purpose had a huge part to play in my recovery from this ‘lack-lustre’ way of living. I sought out the best teachers, mentors, holistic therapists and business professionals to help me on my way. I discovered that putting my heart and soul into what truly ignites my spirit, led me to feeling stronger in myself. I was more motivated and willing to learn.
Over time, my physical pain was eliminated completely, I worked on developing a more positive attitude, suspending judgement and letting go of tension. I took courses to help me to become more assertive and to learn how to deal better with conflict. I moved my body through yoga and dance and I learned how to practice self-care and healing.
Overall I became more grounded, confident and capable, not because I faked it, but because I spent time acquiring knowledge in the topics that are essential to my work. When you learn from sources that can trace their origins more assuredly this too leads to a more authenticity in all you do.
In recent years the word ‘authentic’ has become a buzz word, as marketing and sales professionals realise that customers respond better to something that has a more ‘authentic’ feel about it. It’s nothing new, but when a thing is repeated over and over, we tend to pay less attention. That’s why I believe it is more important to inspire authenticity by our presence and actions.
Every person has something very special and unique to offer to the world. By being more present and exhibiting the best of ourselves we can have a very positive effect on others. Give yourself a moment to think about this in relation to your own life.
Today is the best day to make a start on your ‘Authentic Path’. We are all capable of learning and adjusting. Nobody can tell you who is the real you, that part is yours to discover more fully but you can seek inspiration and support on that journey.
I am aware that self-expression can be dangerous in some situations where people are bound by rules of their society or cultural beliefs. It takes courage to ‘Break True’. There are people far more courageous and inspiring than me but I do what I can in this moment in time and if one person can be inspired by my actions then that’s a fantastic result.
I help people to make their lives amazing by guiding them on their paths to authenticity, wellbeing and success. If you seek a more meaningful life take action by choosing from my range of books, and courses and coaching programmes.
Easons Carlow for my books including Seven Cs to Calm
Eason’s book store in Carlow now stock my books, ‘The Whisperings of Nature’ (poetry) and ‘Seven C’s to Calm – Reclaiming your Anxiety-free Self’.
Both books can be found in the ‘Mind Body Spirit’ section of Eason’s in Carlow’s Fairgreen Shopping Centre.
‘The Whisperings of Nature’ offers poetry inspired by nature and is an ideal accompaniment to my self-care book ‘Seven C’s to Calm – Reclaiming your Anxiety-free Self', which offers support and encouragement for people who suffer with anxiety (a workbook is included also).
I experienced a lot of anxiety in the past, including panic attacks. Nature has been a great source of comfort and healing in my life. In my books I share my learning with readers who seek inspiration for their own path to authenticity.
Despite the challenges that anxiety can present, it is possible to make positive changes that allow us to move towards the things that bring us greater happiness and peace.
Consider buying my books if you are some who appreciates the comfort and wisdom offered by nature or if seeking inspiration to ease your anxiety. Also ideal for a friend or family member who may need encouragement in dealing with anxiety.
I got the call on a Tuesday. In fact I got a number of calls that day, but since I was busy show-casing reflexology at a network event I missed all of them!
It was much later that I listened back to the messages from at least three different numbers all saying one thing 'Caroline, Nationwide are looking for an author who has written about anxiety, ring this number urgently!!!'
I had no pen and in a tizzy, I picked one of the missed numbers randomly and thankfully it was the right one. I was speaking to RTE journalist Helen McInerney. Straight away I detected her warm personality and her enthusiasm for my work.
Helen had already paid a visit to my website, thanks to a tip off from Carlow Mental Health Association. Seeing that, along with being an author of a book about anxiety, I also had accomplished work as a painting artist, travel writer and reflexology therapist, Helen was keen to get my story on national screens. We filmed three days later on a Friday!
How did an anxious village girl leave a secure teaching job to follow her creative dream and end up travelling to faraway lands in the process?
You can watch replay of that Nationwide episode by clicking the image.
Filming with Helen and her crew was fun, especially as it was not just me who got the opportunity to shine, but my friends at Carlow Library (who have been very supportive of my creative development) and the Visual Gallery in Carlow who display my books in their bookshop. My parents were proud to be seen in their beautiful garden and my mother especially thrilled to have her feet on show for the reflexology piece.
'Seven C's to Calm - reclaiming your anxiety-free self' - that's the book that attracted the attention of this Irish National TV Channel. Thanks to the editor and team at RTE for choosing my story and especially to Helen McInerney for making sure all of my acheivements were on show.
I thought you might like take a peek behind the scenes of how it was all made:
Developing trust for following your instincts can take some trial and error but it’s a powerful feeling when you get a clear sign that you did the right thing.
RTE Nationwide’s reporter Helen Mc Inerney took time to visit my website and realising I there was more to my story she persuaded her editor to allow her the scope to share it.
In particular Helen felt it was important to highlight my story of leaving the security of a teaching job, venturing into the unknown of developing my creative talents.
"Developing trust for following your instincts can take some trial and error but it’s a powerful feeling when you get a clear sign that you did the right thing."
My Story
I left a teaching career in 1999, following burn out from stress and anxiety. Simply putting it I was a mess. I had kept an external façade of everything being OK but with the demands of work and useless coping mechanisms I reached a point where I simply had to stop.
The sad thing is, I constantly see people (men and women) who are allowing this to happen to them, some know they are risking burn out and others are in denial mode. In 1999, you could be somewhat forgiven for being in denial mode as there was less awareness in the public domain regarding wellbeing and mental health. I didn’t even own a computer that time and I had a very simple mobile phone with no access to internet. Now, it’s different and you would have to be in serious denial mode to be blocking out the signs that you’re neglecting yourself.
My burn-out experience was humbling. I had to stop and take stock of things. It was a turning point in my life. Through my search for ways to recover and become more resilient, I uncovered my own healing and creative abilities.
3, 2, 1 Action
I had great fun with the staff at Carlow Library during this shoot. It was fitting that they shared the spot-light as they had been a tremendous support to me, providing a beautiful space to launch my books and to showcase my paintings.
The feature also included The Visual Gallery Carlow as my books are available in their gallery shop. Thanks to Helen all the right people were mentioned in the clip including my parents who were proud to have their garden on show in one of the scene and our family dog who has since gone to greener pastures.
My Books Reviewed by Poetry Fans & Health Professionals
I became a self-published author in 2017 and published two books that year, one a book of poetry and the other a self-help book. Along with the poetry lovers and health professionals who provided testimonials for my book covers, I was also approached by bloggers in the wellness sector who offered to review my books. Both my books are available on Amazon and through my on-line shop.
"My books have received favourable feedback from readers and my peers in the mental health professions."
The Whisperings of Nature is a book of poetry inspired by nature, offering comfort, wisdom and inspiration to fellow lovers of words and nature.
Deborah provides counselling and life coaching or individuals, couples, parents and carers. Deborah’s passion is to empower clients by helping them to recognize their inner strengths and leveraging them to face challenges and fears head-on so that they can create the kind of life they deeply desire.
‘I work with my clients to help them feel courageous & empowered. To seek solutions to problems & difficulties life has thrown in their path.’
Krystal Long, Professional Trainer, Speaker & Mental Health Advocate
Krystal Long is an experienced and qualified trainer in the area of Computer application and soft skills development. She has worked with teenagers, people with disabilities and mature adults in a variety of organisations.
Krystal is also an inspirational speaker who provides personal insights into mental health, sharing her unique story of recovery from depression, trauma and agoraphobia. Krystal has delivered her heart-felt stories to the public in both voluntary and corporate organisations.
Krystal is committed to the journey of self-discovery and empowering others to be true to themselves. Krystal is also a creative writer and blogger. Her blog including her review for my poetry book is at Krystal’s Journal.
Fran Malone Clinical Hypnotherapy (Cork & Dublin, Ireland)
Fran Malone is dedicated to helping people to move beyond their fears, limiting beliefs and anxieties. Fran originally studied hypnotherapy, hypnosis and NLP in the UK and started his first clinic there. When he returned to Ireland he studied Clinical Hypnotherapy with Irish Hypnosis and now has clinics in Tallaght (Dublin) and Cork city.
Fran provides support and a very structured approach for any person wanting to quit smoking and lose weight. Fran has a life-long experience working in the caring profession and has a passion for continuous learning and helping his client’s to succeed in their goals.
Fran helps people with anxiety, depression, phobias, weight-loss, smoking, self-esteem & addiction and more.
Arrange an appointment with Fran Malone in either Cork or Dublin (Tallaght)
Gloria Mc Breen, Holistic Therapist, Workshop Facilitator & Writer
Gloria has had an interest in natural healing remedies and practice since her teens and is a professional therapist in many modalities including massage and reflexology.
Gloria creates and facilitates well-being work-shops and is a contributor to Atlantis Eire Holistic & Celtic Spirit Magazine. She is also a health and wellness blogger and novelist.
Gloria enjoys life in the west of Ireland as a proud mother and grandmother who is also devoted to her caring husband.
You can connect with Gloria and read her review of my poetry book at her website We are Holistic.
I’m grateful for the wonderful reviews my supporters have taken time to write and share with others. Developing authenticity has helped me to connect with like-minded people who really get and appreciate my work. My books are available at most on-line book stores such as Amazon and from time I have a small selection in my own on-line shop which can be signed if my clients request it. My books are useful wellness resources for yourself or a friend or family member. I invite you to check them out.
There's no imaginable excuse for missing out on my last tour of The Sacred Lives of Tree's that's because I made THIS VIDEO especially for you to enjoy (:
2025 Update
The Sacred Lives of Tree's exhibition tours were warmly received all over. While many of original paintings are now in good homes around Ireland and Europe, there's still some opportunity to obtain a piece in the form of print or painting. If you liked the virtual tour, pop over to my online gallery and discover your own perfect tree art work.
Imagine for a moment that you're holding the delicate stem of a flowering plant between your thumb and index finger. What will happen as you apply pressure to the stem, squeezing it slowly between your fingers?
As you apply more pressure (tension), you will notice the crushing of the parts and the wilting of the flower itself as the entire stem loses its structure and strength.
Tension is a symptom I associate with anxiety and have experienced it in parts of my body at times when anxiety was at large. There were times when I just accepted this unease and carried on with my everyday business but deep down I knew this was not something I should be accommodating.
We all experience anxiety from time to time, there are a wide range of symptoms which I will address in additional articles but just for now I am touching on the symptom of tension.
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Tension is a Symptom of Anxiety
Like the flowering plant, the human body is made up of delicate cells. Each of these cells have their individual and collective roles of carrying out functions in our body, such as generating energy, eliminating waste, protecting us from infection, transporting nutrients and so much more.
Each part is vital to our well-being. When we feel anxious we sometimes tense or feel un-edge, as we consciously or unconsciously perceive a threat or a situation that we are not entirely comfortable with.
The energy that goes into applying this tension can leave us feeling tired or restless, unable to let go, relax and unwind. In the long-term, like the wilting flower, we render our body to a less efficient state of carrying out its functions. Some may experience what is termed as ‘irritable bowel syndrome’, digestive issues, difficulty breathing or perhaps endure headaches and migraine.
Relieving anxiety has a lot to do with knowledge, understanding what’s really going on and the ways in which you can gain control.
It is largely the business of getting to know yourself completely and addressing the issues that have caused you to succumb to such unease.
The practice of allowing calm to reign is highly recommended and it is certainly advised to seek support if you find it difficult to make a start or get stuck along the way.
Seven C's to Calm - Reclaiming your Anxiety-Free Self offers encouragement and support for people who no longer want to live their lives in a limited way. I've written the book from my own perspective of what it took to free myself. It's a great starting point and the strategies shared in the book can be applied to other areas of your personal development too.
The business network event was soon to start as Karen entered the busy conference room. I heard her say hello to some people behind me. She politely excused herself as she passed through the row of seats and sat next to me. She was dressed smartly in her business attire, having come from work. She sat with a straight posture and gazed ahead towards the platform in front of us.
"I know networking is an important part of business but I just feel so tense from start to finish. I end up telling myself it’s not worth it."
Karen – Senior Business Consultant
As we awaited the announcement of the invited guest speaker, I introduced myself and enquired about her business and her expectations for the evening. Karen, a senior consultant in the corporate world, seemed initially reserved and a little tense in her response.
Being a holistic therapist, I often sense when a person is feeling uneasy and do my best to bring comfort by being friendly. She asked me about my therapy work and wondered what kind of issues it was particularly suited to. I listed a number of health benefits and added that I also help people with anxiety.
It was at that moment Karen leaned a little closer and almost whispering, she confided that she was in fact feeling quite anxious. I could sense her dismay that this was her demise. ‘I usually avoid these events’ she explained. ‘I know networking is an important part of business but I just feel so tense from start to finish. I end up telling myself it’s not worth it’. I assured Karen that she is not alone feeling this way as many people suffer in silence with their anxiety, afraid that others will find out.
You’re Not the Only One
I encouraged her to seek a way to deal with it more effectively, instead of feeling ashamed. ‘It is quite possible,’ I added, ‘that the person sitting on the other side from you is also feeling the same way’. She smiled a little and just then her face softened and with it too, her eyes revealed a kindness. She spoke briefly about personal loss and changing life circumstances, it seemed she had a lot to deal with at this time.
Soon the guest speaker was announced and we listened attentively to the insights and pieces of wisdom being offered by this well-travelled lady. As the event concluded, Karen and I spoke more excitedly about the interesting points of the guest speaker’s talk.
"Underneath this disguise she was struggling to hold everything together to appear strong. The energy it took to do this robbed her of joy and cloaked her true authentic nature which was of warmth and kindness."
Anxiety Hides Your Authentic Self
On the way home, there was so much to think about. The guest speaker had done many daring things and fulfilled many of her dreams. I thought too of Karen and how she had been so arrested by her anxiety when we spoke initially. I thought of the transformation in her persona when she admitted her anguish and relaxed a little. At first she had seemed distant and cool but also confident and elegant, yet underneath this disguise she was struggling to hold everything together to appear strong. The energy it took to do this robbed her of joy and cloaked her true authentic nature which was of warmth and kindness.
"We should not consider acceptable that which robs us of joy and ease."
I remembered also, a man who had attended my therapy practice for reflexology. His wife sent him, as part of their fertility treatment plan. He was a friendly quite out-going person, working as an expert in the financial sector. It was during the second treatment that he confided that most of the time he felt really anxious. He didn’t know why or when he had started feeling this way but he just never seemed to be completely at ease. He was at a loss to know how to gain control of his discomfort.
Anxiety is a silent torment for many people. You might not notice this because they become so adept at disguising what’s really going on beneath the surface.
In addition, some people assign themselves to a more restricted way of living, avoiding anything that might aggravate their symptoms.
Changing our World One by One
We have entered an age of personal development like never before. Internet and social media have provided the perfect platform for sharing story’s and knowledge. More and more events and groups are convening to support those who suffer all manner of mental unease and it is now time for anxiety to have its turn at being revealed, unravelled and put to rest.
My own life was impacted by anxiety and panic attacks in the past. I learned how to successfully develop calm, self-awareness and improved coping mechanisms. I love my life now. I write books to share the useful strategies that helped me. A book is a tiny investment for the seeds of your freedom.
