And what were they?

Really simple things. I was very particular about reaching my workplace on time. I have seldom been late. So, whenever I was pressed for time and wondered if I could make it on time—whether due to bus breakdowns, traffic, or other factors beyond my control—my heart would start racing. Tension coursed through me, and restlessness developed, accompanied by a squeezing sensation at the base of my neck.

There were simple solutions. I could arrive late—no one would question me, given how rare it was. Or I could take an auto-rickshaw. I could even ask for a lift. So why the anxiety? I tried to calm myself by thinking these thoughts whenever I remembered to relax consciously.

I also had the habit of getting up early. After finishing my morning chores, I would head straight for a shower, followed by prayer, and only then have coffee. But even if I woke up just a few minutes late, Mr. Anxiety would arrive in a hurry.

If a family member fell ill, Anxiety would descend like a storm. I couldn’t relax until they recovered. I had read somewhere that birthdays can sometimes bring minor unpleasant incidents. When someone’s birthday approached, my mind would spiral. An upcoming doctor’s visit kept my thoughts on high alert until the consultation was over—*what would the doctor say*?

These worries were often minor, but when something truly serious arose, my mind overflowed with anxiety.

The logical part of my brain kept telling me that most of these worries were irrational. Worrying and feeling anxious wouldn't solve problems or prevent events. In fact, a calm mind would more likely find solutions to avoid or manage challenges.

So, why couldn’t logic prevail?

Contd. 304. Bit Bites - Part 3