There are specific feelings in my body that I have been calling Fear. It’s those tight, shaky, clammy, racing heart kind of feelings. A cluster of sensations that my mind interprets most simply as - “alert! danger! threat of imminent death more than likely!”
But in truth, for me and who I am in the world, most of the time when I feel “fear”, I’m actually okay. I’m safe and my loved ones are safe. There might be a bit of a rough go ahead, but I will be okay.
It's more likely that I am just feeling vulnerable or powerless. Sometimes it’s just that I am feeling embarrassed and small. Either way, it’s always the same flush of sensations that makes me think I need to STOP.
But I don’t want to stop. There are a lot of things that I am trying and pushing towards right now. Things tied up with hope, love, and adventure. I don’t want to freeze or retreat, I want to keep going. But it’s hard to move towards something uncomfortable when my body wants to brace, grasp, or armor.
So I’m trying a thing. It’s nothing new really. Something I have been doing all of my life - I’m breathing…but with intention. When I get scared I am trying to remember to carry a breath deep into my belly and toes. To luxuriate, be present, and hold gratitude for how it expands slowly through my body.
I don’t know if a breath is going to make me any braver, but it buys me a little time…and I can work with that.
Breathe in. Let it go.
How have you learned to move through the sensation of fear?
Slow, deep and even breathes are always grounding. Slows your thoughts and feelings from becoming overwhelming. Glad to hear that you are adding it to your day. Enjoy the journey!
Yes breathing brings me down to ground. I must keep reminding myself to take it in settle into the breath and let go.
I love the images and words and the way you show us the emotions and release. Thank you!