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! :eek:

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. :)

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! :)

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!

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