Avoiding fear only magnifies its power
Feb 01, 2022
Thich Nhat Hanh said,
“Fear keeps us focused on the past or worried about the future. If we can acknowledge our fear, we can realize that right now we are okay. Right now, today, we are still alive, and our bodies are working marvelously. Our eyes can still see the beautiful sky. Our ears can still hear the voices of our loved ones.”
Fear pulls you out of the present moment. It robs you of joy by flooding you with anxiety, worry, shame and guilt.
Avoiding fear only magnifies its power.
Instead of avoiding it, face your fear.
Take a deep breath in through your nose, and exhale.
Acknowledge your fear as you continue to breathe deeply.
As Thich Nhat instructs, realize that you’re okay.
Long deep breathing anchors you to the present moment.
As you breathe, engage your five senses by noticing what you see, hear, taste, touch and smell. Take time to linger for a moment as you notice each one of your senses.
This practice further roots you into the present moment.
Next, ask yourself, what is the message that fear is bringing to you?
Listen and respond to the message with love.
Replace any judgements you’re experiencing with compassion and grace.
Through this process, you’re not controlled or hijacked by fear. Instead, you get to befriend fear and hear her message.
I’ve been friends with fear for a long time. She can have quite a loud voice. When I work with my breath (which is key with fear), I’m able to temper my emotional distress so I can clearly know how I need to respond. And I can respond with love.
With fearless love,
Jodh
P.S. Through meditation and discussion, we’re exploring love and fear this week in our Friday Group Coaching session. As part of our Love Your Life membership, we explore new topics each week to help exercise our voices and take what we practice in yoga and meditation off the mat. Learn more here.
