How to Stop Worrying and Take Back Your Power
For the past year and a half, I have a confession to make. I spiraled. I’m not sure exactly what spurred it on, but I went down a worry wormhole like none other. Part of it felt like it started at the beginning of pregnancy. As my therapist and I discussed the why over this past year she brought to my attention that it was likely a form of protection like a mama bear would have with her cubs. None the less it got to a point where I felt like I couldn’t go a day without fear arising. Trauma in life can do some crazy things to the brain. It can carve channels that spur fear by creating neurological connections. That’s the science behind it, and the good news is - you can change it. It’s called neuroplasticity. Both prayer and meditation are proven to rewire the brain. Today I’m going to share a few ways you can take your power back and let go of worrying for life.
Arm Yourself with Scripture
About 40 percent of Psalms were laments over 1,000 years. Most people think that Psalms are praises about the good God has done in life. When you dissect the scriptures over 50 of the 150 Psalms share about how distress and trials bring God’s glory. We are supposed to cry out to God when we get into tough situations and he will walk us to safety. I recently came across a Proverb stating, “a calm and undisturbed mind and heart are the life and health of the body.” How powerful is that? I immediately saved the scripture on my screensaver and decided to make the concept of being UNBOTHERED a theme in my life. I cannot control others, but I can have power with God’s help to keep my heart calm and unbothered by choices that are outside of my control. My value is in the creation God made me to be and not validation from others. My safety is in scripture and God’s promises. Rebuilding trust with others comes with the faith that God will protect me no matter what calamity happens.
Prayer
I cannot emphasize how important prayer is. Prayer will carry you through the toughest and darkest periods of your life. It’s when we cry out to God that he comes through. The more I try to control something, the harder life feels. But when I let go and let God, he delivers. There are two parts to prayer to master. The first is gratitude. You’ll find throughout the Old and New Testament that both King David and Paul express gratitude first. God cannot multiply your blessings without you first recognizing you have them. Abundance starts with gratitude. The second part of prayer is requesting with thanksgiving. God will deliver you when you thank him as you make requests. Pray when you feel weak. Pray after something happens. Pray when you get up. Pray when you go to bed. Pray, pray, pray. He will make you whole through prayer.
Meditation
The science behind meditation is increased neuroplasticity. As the brain tries to rewire, increased neuroplasticity allows it to do so. You can use guided meditations, yoga or moving meditations, or simply deep breathing for 10-15 minutes a day to make space in the brain for new channels to rewire. Meditation is a practice and the more you practice it, the better you become at it. It will help regulate your nervous system and allow the body to have an outlet with things are hectic. If you don’t know where to get started apps like Headspace, Calm or even guided meditations on YouTube can make a huge difference! Over time, the more you meditate, the easier it is to meditate.
You don’t have to stay stuck in a rut or a thinking pattern. With the help of your higher power, better practices, and a plan you can give up worrying for good. Your body may still have problems regulating your nervous system until it’s rewired, but with time, attention, and focus you can do anything you put your heart and mind to. Keep praying and I’m here to cheer you on!
-XOXO Crystal