How can meditation help me cope with social anxiety?

Question

Name: Sneha, Date of birth: 15 May 2003, Place of birth: Guwahati, Time: 8:10 PM. 

I've always had social anxiety, particularly when there are groups of people or family members around. My heart pounds, my mind goes crazy, and I tend to shut down emotionally. I've attempted meditation, but haven't quite gotten the hang of it beyond breathing slowly. 

How does meditation directly assist me with managing social anxiety and alter the way I respond in public environments? Do you know if it will assist me in feeling more assertive and less reactive, or if it's just a short-term solution?

Accepted Answer

​Hello Sneha. Social anxiety is essentially a "Hyper-Active Startle Response." Your brain sees a group of people and signals "Danger!" Meditation helps by training the Vagus Nerve to stay calm even when your heart starts pounding.

*​The Solution*: "Soft Belly" Breathing. When in a group, focus on keeping your belly muscles loose. Anxiety causes us to tighten the stomach, which signals the brain to panic. By consciously softening your belly, you "hack" your nervous system into staying assertive and calm.

*Insight*: Born May 15, you are a Taurus. You value comfort and safety. Social situations feel like an "invasion" of your personal space.

How can meditation help me cope with social anxiety?

Related Questions

Our Top Astrologers

Acharya Atulji

Tarot Ritambhara

Astro Vishalji

Acharya Gopalji

Acharya Devdas