Guest guest Posted February 4, 2004 Report Share Posted February 4, 2004 I can't say enough about meditation. You can get yourself a guided imagery relaxation tape. It is helping me SO MUCH! It's hard to do at first, but the more you do it, the easier it gets. My tape only takes 20 minutes (If I don't end up falling asleep!) It's worth trying. I think everyone should do it. After I do it now, I almost feel like I've taken a bunch of muscle relaxers. And, some of those anxiety drugs are just muscle relaxers. I know valium is. And, they are addictive. If you need them, then take them. I have to take xanax to fly or go to the dentist. Or if I'm feeling very anxious, I take a adivan or xanax. But, the relaxation tapes are more helpful to me than any drug. If you do it everyday, you can bring that relaxed state up at times throughout the day when you feel anxious, but can't sit down to meditate. Slow, deep breathing, and some words you use to calm yourself really work. When concentrating on my breathing, I say " calm " to myself on the in breath, and " free " on exhaling. (free for pain free). " I am calm, I am free " - I dont' say " pain free " cause I don't want that negative word in there. Just doing that when the kids are fighting, or standing in line at the grocery store makes everything so much easier. I haven't felt an anxiety attack coming on for quite a while. I know it's anxiety, and I can stop it. I am so much more relaxed all through the day, and stressful things aren't bothering me as much as they used to. Remember - stress makes EVERYTHING worse. Also, have you checked out Tai Chi? I just got a dvd from my dad to try. I haven't tried it yet, but it sure looks like a wonderful way to get some exercise while not straining anything, and at the same time getting that " mental " stuff straight. Be careful with the yoga. If you are like me, you are too stretched. As for the anxiety, it's important to address it right away, or it will just keep getting worse. Just knowing that it is anxiety is the best start. And, you sound like me - meds are scary. The meditation will help with pain, anxiety, depression, stress. I really encourage you to try it. You should get a tape to help you start. You do it in the comfort of your own home. A place where you feel most safe. I close all the blinds, turn on the fireplace, get my neck pillow and my little down comforter, sit in my favorite chair, lock the doors, turn off the phone, and listen to the tape and am guided through an image of safety and comfort, where I'm told what to do with my pain and anxiety. Every time I do it, the image changes a bit. It's like a movie playing in my head, that I have totaly control over. I love it. And it's all in my control. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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