Overcoming Anxiety with Fun & Faith [plus therapy, meds and Jesus]

After a difficult 2019, I am so thankful for my health.  While 2020 is certainly a doozy, it pales in comparison to last year on a personal level for me.⁣

The road to recovery had included what usually comes to mind: supportive people, healthy nutrition and exercise, prioritizing sleep, prescriptions, structure and routine, exploring nature, therapy…etc, as well as two other key components FUN & FAITH.⁣

I didn’t prioritize fun before as I thought it was an added bonus or afterthought.  I now realize it is an incredible mood booster and a need.  It can be simple like silly dancing with the kids or a day trip.  It’s one of those “laughter is the best medicine” things.⁣

However; I find the single biggest piece of this puzzle has been faith.  Reading God’s truth is what quells the anxiety as I remember what is True.  This helps me trust God when I feel overwhelmed.  Today’s verse in Ephesians 1:18 impacted me, “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you..”  There was a time where I felt hopeless as I was blinded and preoccupied by my circumstances.  When I read this verse today, I am thankful that my eyes have been opened and that my hope is renewed.⁣

My anxiety is a million times better as I am getting a handle on it.  It’s certainly improved as I now acknowledge it as an intruder instead of ignoring it and practically posting a ‘welcome’ sign to it.  My motto to anxiety now is DO NOT DISTURB my peace✋🏻... I want to love life, not just survive it.  Now, instead of bottling it up until it gets the best of me, I am taking a proactive, preventative approach.  Intentionally checking-in daily is making a world of difference.  While it’s been difficult, I am thankful for this journey.  It’s made a more resilient, stronger and empathetic person.  I still have a ways to go I am sure, I am grateful for these reminders that I am on the right path.