These Somatic Mindfulness Exercises Offer Anxious Families Hope and Help

Anxiety manifests physically, so it’s no surprise that body-based practices can be incredibly effective in managing it.

While we often think of anxiety as a mental health issue, it’s deeply rooted in our physical sensations. What do you notice physically when you’re anxious?

Connect with Yourself First

If you’re a parent of an anxious child, you might feel overwhelmed. Anxious kids often have anxious parents. Before you can be your child’s lighthouse, you need to connect with yourself first.

The Power of the Present Moment

Anxiety comes from worrying about the future or ruminating on the past, while mindfulness helps us stay grounded in the present moment. Mindfulness isn’t about shutting off from the world. It’s about integrating awareness into everyday activities, noticing thoughts as they arise, and recognizing that we have choices in how we feel, think, and behave.

Somatic mindfulness practices (like yoga) can effectively tone the vagus nerve, a key player in our nervous system. When regulated, the vagus nerve helps us feel relaxed, safe, trusting, flexible, creative, and loving.