oh gawd, did you hit the proverbial nail. π
@see_the_sus as I remind people, anxiety can just be a misfiring survival mechanism. The problem is it can be RIGHT enough to be a pain in the ass.
My wall that goes up is how I get stuck in the immediate reaction to whatever painful emotion started it. Basically, my brain goes into flight mode and I shut down. My therapist is working with me on taking three deep breaths, then taking five minutes to be in whatever reaction I'm having, and then after those 5 mins reevaluate how I'm feeling. If I'm still in the fight or flight mode, then I give myself 5 more minutes, etc. etc.
...progress has been slow. π
@see_the_sus oh good. I can also reccomend some Taoist readings that I found useful anxiety or NOT, if one is willing to wade through a bit of colorful language.
LOL Funny you should mention that! I exchanged some books recently at one of our indi bookstores and for about the last three years my interest in Buddhism has grown and so I picked up some books on Buddhism, as well as a book of Zen poetry, essays, etc.
I'm also rebuilding my interest in Wicca and Tarot cards. Trying to get back to some semblance of calm and peace.
I have my recs here - https://www.xenofact.com/things-to-read/
But Thomas Cleary has several books you should read. "The Secret of the Golden Flower" and "Awakening to the Tao" are a strong reccomend.
Thanks, Iβll check βem out.
@see_the_sus my pleasure!
I'd also pitch the Church of the SubGenius, but I'm sorta obligated ;)
π€£ Oh oh, next will be the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster. π