Anxiety is the whole reason that I (Fergus) am here.
I joined my human family in 2018 or 2019 and not long after that, one of my humans experienced the worst anxiety and panic attacks of her life. She suffered greatly with the battle against anxiety and during this time, I became her emotional support rubber duck, and thus, our wellness journey began.
During this dark time, my human worked hard to overcome her anxiety. She took classes, practiced mindfulness, and worked hard for years. These were the worse years of her life. Now, she is about 95% recovered, and though she still struggles occasionally, she now has many tools to help her as she continues to heal and become well.
So, it is only fitting that this is our first wellness topic.
Anxiety can cause a vast array of feelings. It can make you feel anxious, worried, paranoid, sad, scared, alone, depressed, uncomfortable in your own skin. It can make you feel physically weak, sick to your stomach, light-headed, like the world is spinning.
What has helped my human, has been practicing mindfulness. This is a practice of being in the “now” or being in the present moment.
What often happens with Anxiety is that it can come on suddenly, out of nowhere or be triggered by a worrying thought. It can quickly spiral out of control if one allows their thoughts to continue on the path they are on. Practicing mindfulness helps you focus on the present moment instead of drifting off into the anxious thoughts.
There are many ways that you can practice mindfulness, but my favorite way is to be there for my human so that she can become centered, grounded, and present. How do I do this? Well, when my human holds me, it gives her something to focus her attention on. It allows her to feel something physical in her hands where she can feel my physical smoothness or ridges which can help her focus on something that is here in this reality instead of drifting off into the thoughts of the “what-ifs” and unknowns. When she holds me, I help her stay grounded and focused, allowing her to breathe and be in the moment. I also help to bring comfort, as I am something she can squeeze, rub, or just hold, bringing that physical sensation of not being alone. On top of that, I am a great listener. My human can talk to me about anything without the feeling of being pressured or judged. Think of me as a sounding board, this can also help thoughts be expressed openly where new ideas and solutions may become present because you are speaking them out loud without fear.
So, next time you are feeling anxious, hold a rubber duck, or anything that brings you comfort. Notice how it feels in your hands. Focus on the texture. Let it bring you to the present moment. Breathe. Squeeze the item if you need to. Do this until the anxiety passes, and each time you feel it coming on, repeat the process. If thoughts creep in and threaten to make you spiral, notice and acknowledge the thought, then let it go. Don’t entertain it and see where it leads. Don’t focus on it in any way. Just notice it is there, let it go, and focus again on your duck or the item in your hands and on your breath.
This can help in all moments of anxiety, anxiousness, stress, panic, or discomfort. Practice this anytime you feel you need to become centered, grounded, focused, or mindful. This especially works well when you can do this outside in the fresh air, but anywhere and anytime you need it, your Rubber Duck can help!
We would love to hear how Rubber Ducks have helped you with your anxiety and your healing journey!
I hope this information helps any and all who experience anxiety, anxiousness, stress, or panic.
Wishing you all a healthy and mindful day!
-Fergus Fowl
Leave a comment