Lately, we have noticed an increase in feelings of anxiety in our patients and friends, and even ourselves. Spring is a common time for anxiety. The energy of Spring is rushing upward. Just as bulbs are opening and the tulips are pushing up through the soil, so too is the energy of our bodies. When we are a little unrooted, or have a deficiency of blood or yin, our energy can rise too quickly, and in an uncontrolled way. This causes physical feelings of discomfort in the upper abdomen and chest such as heart palpitations, chest tightness, difficulty breathing and a "nervous" stomach. Acupuncture and herbs, and sometimes moxa, can help bring this energy back down into our dan tien, or belly. There is also a visualization I learned years ago that can help one feel more "rooted."

Meditation for Anxiety:

Stand in a quiet, comfortable position. Close your eyes and take a deep breath, in....and out. Relax the muscles in your face, your jaw, your ears. Let the space behind your eyes melt toward the floor. Slowly work your way down your body, allowing each part to let go. Do this from your shoulders, arms, hands to your ribs, stomach, hips. All the way down to your feet. Once you have reached your feet, imagine that there are roots, just like those beneath a tree, coming out of your feet. They grow away from your feet and push down into the earth where they spread out and grab on to the soil. Let yourself feel the strength and stability this provides.

Any time you are feeling the energy rising in your body, or your chest or stomach feeling tight and uncomfortable, try this visualization. Once you have practiced it a few times, it only takes a few minutes.