Anxiety Stinks - Anxiety Message Board

yummyhoney · 12-10-2004, 07:34 PM

Most days I have anxiety, it first started after my first panic attack ( and I thought I was going to die). I mainly worry about heaps of small things, then I start feeling light headed, dizzy and a feeling of sickness! But what bugs me the most is the muscle tightness from my chest going up to each side of my neck. Which won't go away until I relax!
Does this happen to anyone else???
Does anyone else have any other quick relaxing techniques besides deep breathing, because sometimes it makes me feel like I'm going to pass out!

Lady Epona · 12-11-2004, 06:57 PM

Honey,

If deep breathing makes you feel faint, just try and sit (or lay down). What I do is close my eyes and with my mind find all the areas of tension. Then I picture in my mind that they are melting, or getting softer.

Try not to concentrate too hard, because trying can lead to more tension. I go to a holistic therapist who has taught me deep breathing and relaxation techniques for anxiety/panic. The worst areas of tension are usually around the eyes, throat, shoulders, and legs.

From there try to deep breath a little bit and see how you feel. Relaxing music might help also.

kali23 · 12-11-2004, 07:04 PM

I also get a lot of chest tightness and lightheadedness when I have bad anxiety or panic attacks. Breathing used to not help me either because it made me lightheaded, but now it helps a little. I consciously breathe with my belly rather than with my chest, poofing out my belly when I breathe. This may sound corny, but what helps me the most is actually talking to myself out loud - telling myself, "I am going to relax. I am healthy, and I am happy right now. I am feeling myself relax, etc. etc..." If I'm in a place where I can't talk out loud, it helps to write it down on a piece of paper. Another thing I read on the boards that has helped me is picturing my forehead smiling. I know that sounds weird, but if you picture a giant grinning smile on your forehead, it makes you smile a little. This relieves some of the tension for me. It's worth a shot! Good luck!

yummyhoney · 12-13-2004, 12:51 AM

Thankyou Lady Epona

I love relaxing soft music, hard sometimes with three littles ones running about!
breathing and keeping calm I have to work on....geee I even get anxiety over worrying about that!

Lady Epona · 12-13-2004, 05:52 AM

You're welcome!

Yes, it must be hard to relax with three little one's around. I know that with people who have children it's nearly impossible to find private time to just relax. And children can cause anxiety for anyone.

Take care of yourself,

Lady Epona