There are many ways to address fear and anxiety but one of the most profound is found in Cheri Huber's "The Fear Book:," inspired by Zen Buddhism.
There are many ways to address fear and anxiety but one of the most profound is found in Cheri Huber's The Fear Book, inspired by Zen Buddhism.
Principle One: You are not your fear.
This is the most fundamental principle of fear from a Buddhist perspective. Often when people are afraid, they unconsciously make fear part of themselves.
For example, people often say "I'm not good in social situations" or "I don't like traveling." It is more difficult to tackle fear if you think it is part of yourself rather than a separate emotion. The first step towards reducing fear is to be able to label fear and realize that you are not a "fearful person."
Principle Two: The stronger the fear, the closer you are to the truth.
The more intense the experience of fear, the closer you are to the core fear. For example, say that you are petrified of public speaking. Are you really afraid that you will embarrass yourself and look like a fool? Are you afraid you have nothing worthwhile to say? Use the strength of fear to guide you deeper towards the truth.
Once you hit the core fear, try putting it into perspective. It is often helpful to ask yourself, "What is the worse that can happen?" Since the answer is usually not dire, one can see fears and anxieties more rationally.
Principle Three: Other emotions such as anger and sadness may actually be fear.
Fear has many faces. Whenever you feel a strong emotion, see if fear is hidden underneath. For example, you may be angry when you get turned down for a job. Is it really anger or are you afraid that you are not good enough? Examine each emotion and see if it is really fear. Ask yourself, "What am I afraid of?"
Principle Four: Everytime we avoid fear, fear gets stronger.
Often the natural reaction to experiencing fear is to protect ourselves from it. We chose not to go to the party that makes us uncomfortable. We chose not to try a new activity, such as rowing or salsa dancing in order to avoid the discomfort of fear and anxiety.
Unfortunately this strengthens fear and the likelihood that we will avoid more activities. Try small steps towards doing something scary. Move forward at a comfortable pace by breaking a task into components.
Principle Five: If you do not believe what fear tells you, your fear will become smaller.
The trick to overcoming fear and anxiety is not to believe what it tells you. For example, if you want to travel alone but fear is telling you that you can't do it, don't believe these thoughts. Fear is very persuasive and it can be difficult to distinguish fear from who you are are.
It might be helpful to ask yourself whether your thought is true. It also helps to develop statements to counteract fear. For example, tell yourself how capable you are, how you can travel safely alone or how excited you are about travelling.
A Calm Mind Can't Be Fearful
Fear and anxiety are natural states of emotion. However, when they take over your life, they develop a life of their own. Fortunately, fear and anxiety can be worked with.
A Zen Buddhist approach focuses on the mind to unvail the ultimate delusion of fear: that it is who you are. Fear is often an unwelcome visitor. Remember you can't chose feeling fear but you can chose when to leave it at the door.
Source:
Huber, Cheri. The Fear Book U.S.A.: Keep it Simple Books, 1995.
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Hope the above article by Meegan Simspon-Cooke will help you to better control your anxiety as well as fear. Warmest wishes to all, love Clarita :-)(big fan of Buddhist philosophies- many wisdoms that can help us to lead more dynamic positive lives)
