Public speaking is one of the most valuable skills in today's professional world. Whether you're presenting to a boardroom, speaking on a panel, or delivering a virtual talk, the ability to communicate clearly and confidently can open doors to new opportunities. Yet, for many, the mere thought of standing in front of an audience induces anxiety.
For those who live with anxiety, are neurodivergent, or feel the weight of societal expectations, 'masking' can feel like a shield. It's the act of blending in, suppressing the parts of oneself that feel too 'different' or 'much' in order to fit a mould. Masking can be a survival tool, a way to navigate environments where we fear rejection or misunderstanding. It can give us temporary relief: "If I just act like everyone else, I'll feel safe." And, our nervous system spends a lot of time looking for signals in our environment that tell us it is safe. Masking can also be exhausting, alienating, and denying our most authentic selves. Over time, it chips away at authenticity, leaving us wondering: Who am I beneath the mask?
I recently revisited Nan Shepherd's masterpiece, 'The Living Mountain'. It is a revelation, a rare gem of nature writing that transforms the act of walking into a profound exploration of beauty, mindful observation, and healing. Initially hidden in obscurity, it has since been rightly celebrated as one of Britain's finest works ever written about nature and landscape. Shepherd's poetic reflections on the Cairngorm mountains are a spellbinding reminder of the wonder that awaits when we slow down, immerse ourselves in the wild, and simply observe.
How do I know if I am Anxious? Anxiety is a natural, biological response that is designed to keep us safe from harm. It is designed to protect us and not, as it sometimes feels, to destroy us. Believe it or not, in general, it is really useful and can help motivate us to complete reports or tasks. It is often experienced in the body as a feeling of unease, such as worry or fear.
Improving self-talk is important for better mental health not only because it helps to regulate feelings but can also help to reduce anxiety and stress. When we tweak our self-talk, we increase our self-esteem and confidence, allowing us to take on new challenges. Additionally, improving our self-narrative can give us a sense of improved overall well-being.
Hypnotherapy for Stress Management Stress is an integral part of modern life and can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Fortunately, Hypnotherapy can be a powerful tool for managing stress.
Practical Self-Care Strategies for Anxiety In addition to managing thoughts and talking about how you feel, there are some valuable things you can do to help improve how you manage anxiety; this is referred to as 'self-care.'
The Vagus nerve assists our bodies in switching between the flight-or-fight response and the parasympathetic mode, which is when we feel rested and relaxed. It plays a crucial role in our health and wellbeing and can help reduce anxiety and depression, stress and inflammation and increase immunity and longevity.
