Finding Freedom From Anxiety

Three common traps (and better paths forward)

Last weekend, I visited Dow Gardens in Midland, Michigan. The serene landscape did not reflect the anxiety I felt a week earlier because of an appointment that I had dreaded. Just thinking about the appointment created overwhelming anxiety in me. It impacted my sleep and robbed me of quality focus and attention during the day. This is not the first time I have felt anxiety about an appointment, and it won't be the last time. 

I texted some friends to pray for me. I increased the amount of magnesium I was taking, along with some other supplements. I processed through my fears with a mentor and others, and explored why the appointment made me so anxious. I ate more protein and went to bed earlier. It didn't eliminate all the fears, but it did help make the appointment easier.

I know I'm not alone in what I experienced. It may not be an appointment you are dreading. Your anxiety may originate from a completely different cause, but it is anxiety nonetheless and interferes with plans, productivity, and peace. 

Finding Freedom From Anxiety: Three Common Traps (and Better Paths Forward)

One in five people experiences significant anxiety that interferes with daily life. It can affect everything — your sleep, digestion, focus, relationships, and even your ability to feel close to God.

But here’s the good news: anxiety is not your identity, and it’s not your destiny. You can learn to understand it, care for your body and mind, and rebuild your peace. This is what I did, and although it did not completely eliminate the anxiety, it helped make it more manageable. 

Over the years, I’ve noticed  three common traps  women fall into when they’re trying to manage anxiety — and some healthier, more hopeful ways to approach each one.

Trap #1: Trying Every Supplement You See Online

You hear about herbs or supplements that promise calm — and maybe you try a few. Some help, others don’t. When they don’t work, it’s easy to feel frustrated and discouraged.

Here’s why that happens: our genetics can affect how our bodies respond to certain nutrients. For some people, ashwagandha will make them feel more anxious, and for others, they will feel calmer.

A better way: Instead of guessing, consider getting a methylation test or a pyrroles test to determine how your body processes nutrients and neurotransmitters. This can help you discover not only which supplements support your calm but also why you’re anxious in the first place.

Trap #2: Ignoring What Your Anxiety Is Trying to Tell You

Anxiety always has a reason — it’s your body’s way of sounding an alarm. But in our busy lives, we often push through instead of pausing to listen.

Ask yourself:

• Have I been sleeping poorly or skipping exercise?
• Am I feeling unsafe or overcommitted?
• Have I been relying on caffeine or sugar to keep going?
• Is there conflict or emotional stress I’ve been avoiding?
• Are there unresolved memories that trigger anxiety?

A better way: Instead of numbing or distracting yourself, slow down and listen. Then, change what you can: sleep, nutrition, caffeine, and movement. Small adjustments in rhythm and rest can bring big relief.

Trap #3: Believing Anxiety Is “Just Who You Are”

It’s easy to say, “I’m just an anxious person. My mom and grandma were too.”
Yes, family history, trauma, and life circumstances can increase anxiety — but they don’t have to define your future.

When you begin to understand your capacity (your God-given limits) and learn to live within them, you start to build resilience.

Your capacity can shrink during hard seasons — chronic illness, caregiving, financial strain, or unresolved grief — but it can also be rebuilt with time, care, and support.

A better way: Acknowledge your limits. Rest when your body asks you to. Choose to see a therapist who can help you identify lies and replace them with truth. As you live within your capacity, resilience grows — and anxiety begins to lose its power.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Healing from anxiety takes time, grace, and community. That’s why I created my signature program, Wholeness Restored — a faith-based, holistic approach to uncovering the root causes of anxiety and rebuilding your energy, peace, and confidence.

If this message resonates with you, I’d love to invite you to a free 45-minute introductory call. There’s no pressure or sales pitch — just a safe space to share your health concerns and explore whether Wholeness Restored might be the next step in your healing journey.

Schedule your free call here .