So we all hear about an increase in Anxiety these days for a lot of us... not only does it seem to be increasing in Human Beings but also in pets, I hear more and more animals ripping out their fur, taking medications, etc. I had a conversation with a good friend today about someone that is close to them dealing with a few Anxiety issues so I decided to write post today on some resources that have helped me over the years deal with certain situations that have brought on some Anxious moments for me. It's actually turned out to be a very positive thing in my life as I've learned and improved many aspects of my life because ot it. Here's a perfect tune to listen to while you read this post by Bob Marley:
First off, I hope anyone having issues with Anxiety doesn't think they are crazy or are the only ones going through the tough times once in awhile. As I mentioned, unfortunately it's a more common problem then most of us know or might want to admit. I also feel it's something some of us have to deal with as an ongoing part of our lives. So, even though I wish I could tell you I think there is a fast, snap your fingers type fix for this, I don't believe that is true. I think it takes a lot of work and effort. Trust me, it's all worth it but I won't go into too many details at this moment on how to best manage Anxiety (maybe I can expand more if people want to hear more of my views). But I am going to start with a short list of books that I have read that really have made sense to me and helped me a lot. Here they are (not in any particular order):
1. A New Earth: Awakening To Your Life's Purpose -
Eckhart Tolle
The book is focused on spirituality rather than on any particular religious denomination. I can honestly say this book has changed my life. It really makes you think about a lot of things and really tries to help you stay in the present moment, which is half (or more) the battle of Anxiety. This book can get pretty deep at times so some suggest trying to read the first 100 pages or so and see how it goes. If you aren't feeling it, maybe put it down for awhile and come back to it at a later time.
2. When Panic Attacks -
David D. Burns, M.D.
This book really can hit home with anyone suffering with any type of Anxiety. I am not a huge fan of the title (seems kinda scary or something haha) of it but it's a great book with a lot of exercises that really make you over power negative thought patterns with more positive ones. Think of it more as a workbook.
3. The Little Book of Letting Go -
Hugh Prather
This book is similar to "When Panic Attacks" other than it deals more with letting go of things like worrying, judgement, control, always being right, etc. Which are all things important to let go of if you are searching for Peace and/or Enlightenment. It also deals with how our ego can keep us from feeling connected to others and the Universe as a whole.
4. The Five Things We Cannot Change... and the Happiness We Find by Embracing Them -
David Richo
This book is one I just found walking around the book store one day (a good friend of mine told me that books actually find us sometimes and I believe it). This one is similar to A New Earth and it deals a lot with the present moment and how our egos can get in the way sometimes and keep us from connecting to others and to the Universe. I have read a couple of this authors books and strongly recommend them for anyone who enjoys these types of books.
5. Anything by Dalai Lama -
Dalai Lama
Over the past couple of years I have been reading more of his work and others writing about him and his experiences. I won't go into to much detail but a lot of his books deal with how to become Enlightened. He speaks a lot about Buddhism but also feels that you do note have to follow specific religion to be a peaceful, enlightened person. Very inspiring!
You will also notice that most of these books are around the 10 dollar range. It's hard to believe how much 20 or 30 dollars can really change your life if you pick up a few books to help you along your way. Also,
please feel free to add any other resources in the comments that might help people along on their Journey... even when it gets a little anxious at times, Thanks! As with most tough things in life, we can turn it into a positive if we dig deep and work hard to change a few things.
Cheers,
Adrian
Disclaimer: I actually make a small percentage of the money spent on books sold through the Amazon links on this post. I guess you could look at it as a small donation to help me keep this blog going. Thanks!
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