Did you know that “Fear not” is mentioned over 365 times in the bible. “Fear not, for I am with you.” For some that is not a good enough reason to stop living in fear. Fear naturally rises when there is threat of harm, either physical, emotional, or psychological, real, or imagined. Each person may experience fear differently. The one thing that is the same, is the bodies physical response to fear.
Fear is 1st experienced the mind. As soon as you recognize fear, your amygdala (a small part of the middle brain) is activated to alert your nervous system. Which then sets your body’s fear response into motion. Stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline are released. Your blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing begin to increase. Your blood flow starts to flow away from your heart and into your limbs, making it easier for you to start swing, or run for your life. At this point, your body is fully operating in fight or flight, scientifically known as the sympathetic system.
Fear is a primal response intended to keep us safe. At the same time, it can be troublesome and interfere with day-to-day functioning. Living in a state of fear, sympathetic overload, weakened the immune system, halts digestion, and disrupts restful sleep. This opens the door for mental & physical illnesses to just walk into your life.
Our fears are often exaggerated in our imagination. Our minds/imagination are so powerful that it can make assumptions & lies true. Which explains how fears so often become reality. Worry, doubt, anxiousness, comparison, and the feeling of not being in control all derive from fear. Fears you do not face become your limits.
So, when thoughts of uncertainty, “what ifs,” & even covid number arise , simply notice them. Become aware that these thoughts are fear based and have nothing good for you. Replace that thought with one that encourages peace. “Everything will work out perfectly. I choose not to live in fear.” Once you say it enough times, your mind & body will feel safe again. There will be no room left for fear. You will feel worthy, loved, and cared for. A life with no fear, is a limitless life. “Fear not, for I am with you.” Hope this brings you peace. Peace.
