Analyzing Emotional Word Choice

Read the following excerpt from a fictional narrative:

"As the golden rays of the sun dipped below the horizon, casting an ethereal glow over the tranquil waters, Maya could feel the frosted tendrils of anxiety creeping into her thoughts. She had spent years preparing for this moment, but the indelible pressure weighed heavily on her chest, each heartbeat echoing her doubt. Would she be able to perform, or would she crumble under the weight of expectation?"

In this excerpt, the author uses various words to convey the emotional state of Maya. Which word choice most effectively enhances the reader's understanding of Maya's psyche?