Finding my Zen: How The Art of Power helped me with anxiety.
For some reason one of the first things I learned to do was worry. Since childhood the “what ifs” kept me awake at night. It wasn’t until college that these scary moments were given a name, anxiety. Although many form their own coping mechanisms I hadn’t adopted any that were helpful for me.
Fast forward into adulthood, new surroundings same concerns. With stress levels so high I hadn’t slept or ate for sometimes for days at a time. I decided something different had to be done for something new to transpire.
As I’m working to reverse old habits and thought processes I made a decision to find peace. I picked up the book The Art of Power by Thich Nhat Hanh immediately inspired by the ideal of becoming more mindful and understanding what that meant.
What is Power?
Typically power is described as one that includes control and money. Thich Nhat Hanh describes what Buddhist call the five true powers that are the foundation of happiness. These five powers are faith, diligence, mindfulness, concentration, and insight.
As I continued to read on the different types of power Hanh explained how each power works to balance ones happiness. I created new mantras for moments of high stress, anxiety or panic to increase my sense of security and calm.
This doesn’t click overnight, it definitely took practice and a few one on one conversations with my ego. I had to learn to be patient with myself and to forgive myself when I would “backtrack”. Eventually these new behaviors have become habits and I now see things happening for me and not to me.
The Art of Mindfulness
Mindfulness is being present, in the here and now. Sure living in the moment sounds easy, but is it really? How many times have you been at an event and distracted by your phone? Or out with friends and mentally concerned about other things?
My mind goes a mile a minute, appreciating the present was a huge challenge, and honestly somethings I work toward daily. The ability of being grateful to be in a moment and being present in that moment is an art.
Meditation is the best way to become more mindful. Luckily the book explains various ways to meditate so I sitting in silence isn’t your style there are other options. Creating this habit was the equivalent to working out, once you see results you’re eager to keep doing it.
Expanding gratitude
Chapter to chapter I was encouraged and inspired. Since I first picked up the book I haven’t viewed life the same. Hanhs explanation of The Art of Power helped me to understand that my happiness relies on me.
Keeping your gratitude on high and living in the moment is a day to day challenge. I’m grateful that I’m now aware that I have the choice. Everyday you can say you’re thankful for things but how do you show it? For example you want a bigger house but do you care for the one you currently own?
This book is a great way for people to learn more about themselves, their desires, and ways to accomplish them. I would recommend this book to anyone looking to overcome their anxiety or looking to change old habits. Changing is never easy but always necessary.
