I have heard people ask the question: “What would I do if I had no fear?” This question can be valuable in helping you learn what you are avoiding and what your dreams are. I prefer to ask it this way: “What would I do if I was no longer controlled by fear?”

When we acknowledge and accept fear or discomfort, we limit its power. I learned this concept from working at a treatment center that addresses anxiety disorders through exposure therapy.

So what am I afraid of? What can I practice doing in the midst of being afraid to reduce the limitations that I have allowed fear to have on my life?

I could now go into extensive detail on all the things I am afraid of, but instead I’m going to leave it there. Think about what you fear. What limits have you allowed fear to set for you? Are you willing to do one thing you’ve been avoiding because of fear or discomfort?

The post Fear or no fear? first appeared on MS and Mo.

How can you combat this downward cycle?

Here are the things I’ve discovered that pull me out of the loop and into a space where my emotions are no longer controlling me.

1- Creative play

There’s something about creating that calms inner turmoil. Georges Braques, a twentieth century French artist, said:

“Art is a wound turned into light. “

https://samsfans.org/10-art-therapy-quotes-that-you-will-love/

When we are experiencing something uncomfortable, using that pain to trigger creative expression allows us to release that negative energy in a way that brings us joy and satisfaction.

The things I do most frequently are: coloring in adult coloring books, drawing, writing, and cooking. I want to get more involved with gardening and I plan to plant carrots and peas in the next few weeks. Do you have any ideas of ways to be creative? Share in the comments below, we all could use more ideas.

2- Physiological calming

Physiological calming is a fancy way of saying “take a chill pill.” Due to the connection between our mind and body, it gives us a straightforward approach to stress reduction.

When I’m getting caught up in the uncertainty involved with MS I find it helpful to focus on my breathing and consciously slow it down. Other strategies I have tried are: doing an exercise burst, splashing my face with water, stepping outside for fresh air, and smiling.

3- Distraction

Sometimes when your brain is in a tail spin you simply need to do something else. This is a strategy I recommend to be used carefully and conscientiously. It’s unhealthy to always distract yourself from uncomfortable experiences or emotions. In fact, avoidance can result in a bigger meltdown later on.

When I realize I need a little break from the charged emotions, I usually read a book. Some other things I have done: take a nap, play music, go on a walk, watch a funny Youtube video, or have a conversation with someone.

Again, napping all afternoon, watching videos about your condition or stressful world events, or blasting music in headphones while ignoring the world are not healthy ways to utilize distraction.

Let me know what you think and if you have any ideas to contribute. All are welcome!

The post Three Hacks to Reduce Stress in the Moment first appeared on MS and Mo.