The Language of Dis-Ease: Why We Choose "Threat" Over "Anxiety"

Language is not merely a tool for communication; it's a lens through which we perceive and interpret the world. The words we use shape our thoughts, our emotions, and even our physical sensations. In the realm of well-being, this becomes particularly evident when we examine the language we use to describe our internal states.

Consider the word "anxiety." It's a noun, a label that implies a static condition, a fixed attribute of our being. When we say, "I am anxious," we unconsciously solidify this feeling, turning it into a defining characteristic of who we are. This can create a sense of helplessness, a belief that anxiety is an inherent part of our identity, something we must constantly struggle against.

But what if we shift the language? What if, instead of "anxiety," we use the word "threat"? Suddenly, the dynamic changes. "Threat" is a verb, an action word that implies movement, a process that can be navigated and ultimately resolved. It suggests that the unease we feel is not a fixed state, but a response to a perceived danger, a signal that our nervous system is trying to protect us.

This subtle shift in language can have a profound impact on our experience. It empowers us to take action, to address the underlying threat, and to move towards a state of ease. It reminds us that we are not our anxiety, but rather the awareness that witnesses it, the intelligence that can respond to it.

The English language, with its emphasis on nouns and its historical association with colonialism and domination, often reinforces a sense of separation and control. It encourages us to categorize, label, and define, creating a world of rigid boundaries and fixed identities. This is reflected in the "stiff upper lip" mentality, where emotions are suppressed and vulnerability is seen as weakness.

Indigenous languages, on the other hand, often have a more verb-oriented structure, emphasizing process, interconnectedness, and the fluidity of experience. They speak of emotions as flowing through us, as temporary states that arise and pass away, rather than fixed attributes that define us.

This difference in language reflects a deeper cultural and philosophical divide. The Western worldview, shaped by the legacy of the British Empire, often prioritizes individualism, achievement, and the pursuit of control. This mindset can contribute to anxiety, as we constantly strive to meet external expectations and maintain a sense of separation from the world around us.

Indigenous cultures, on the other hand, often emphasize community, harmony with nature, and the interconnectedness of all beings. This perspective can foster a greater sense of ease and belonging, as we recognize that we are not isolated individuals, but rather threads in the intricate tapestry of life.

By choosing to use the word "threat" instead of "anxiety," we are not simply changing our vocabulary; we are shifting our perspective. We are moving away from a language of labels and limitations towards a language of fluidity, process, and interconnectedness. We are reclaiming our innate wisdom, the wisdom that recognizes that we are not separate from the world, but rather an integral part of its magnificent dance.