How I Turned a Panic Attack into Peace
If you’d like to know how to turn a panic attack into peace read on.
A few years ago, when I was going through extremely, difficult times, I found myself in the throes of a panic attack. It was a sudden onset, triggered by negative and fearful thoughts that gripped me so hard I couldn’t breathe. But amidst the chaos, I discovered the incredible power of our mind that not only overcomes even the most daunting challenges but creates them!
As the panic set in, my thoughts began to spiral out of control. Fearful scenarios played out in my mind, each one more catastrophic than the last. As adrenaline coursed through me, I felt like I was having a bloody heart attack, my mind unable to function.
It was like my brain crashed and needed a reboot.
In moments like these, rationality fails. The fight or flight response takes over, rendering us powerless to think or act coherently.
I focused on my breath
In the stillness of my panic, I found a lifeline – the simple act of breathing. With each deep breath, I told myself the fear was not real, even though it felt very, real.
I anchored myself in the present moment, refusing to let the runaway train of my thoughts dictate my reality.
Slowly but surely, the panic began to subside. I reached for my journal and poured out all of my fears and anxieties onto the page. It was raw, vulnerable, and beautiful, leading to clarity and understanding. As I allowed myself to feel and express my emotions without judgment, I felt a profound peace wash over me.
In the aftermath of the panic attack, I reflected on what I learnt from the experience.
Takeaways
Here are five key takeaways that I hope will resonate with you:
Stay Aware: Recognize the signs of panic and take action before it escalates.
Breathe Deeply: Use deep breathing techniques to ground yourself in the present moment and regain control over your body.
Embrace Vulnerability: Allow yourself to feel and express your emotions openly, without fear of judgment.
Journal Your Thoughts: Use journaling as a tool for release, self-reflection and introspection, allowing insights to emerge naturally.
Remember Transience: Understand that emotions, no matter how intense are temporary. Allow them to flow through you, knowing that they will eventually pass.
That journey through panic taught me a valuable lesson about resilience, the breath, the present moment, and the Life Force within us.
By embracing the power of our minds and leaning into vulnerability, we can navigate even the darkest moments with Grace and emerge stronger on the other side.
Although I rarely experience panic attacks these days, I still sometimes experience anxiety. But, I now have the tools to bring my whole system back into balance.
If you or someone you know would like support in navigating change, please get in touch to explore how I can help you create positive change in your life.
Much love
Marion x
