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burnt_toast (original poster member #16891) posted at 1:32 AM on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2013
I don't know if this is the right thread to post this.
I'm looking for new tools to help me cope with anxiety.
I used to listen to guided meditation MP3s, which helped my practice tremendously the last time I had triggers (some years ago), but I think I'm due for some fresh ones. Any recommendations? I loved what I had (Nicole Bordeleau), which, I heard, was inspired by Jon Kabat-Zinn.
Books recommendations are also most welcome... or other good insight!
[This message edited by burnt_toast at 7:33 PM, July 22nd (Monday)]
I may have not gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I needed to be.
- Douglas Adams
Want2help ( member #20547) posted at 1:48 AM on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2013
The only thing that I find that helps me is exercise. Particularly cycling.
Is that an option for you?
ETA: Also, acupuncture has helped me in the past.
[This message edited by Want2help at 7:48 PM, July 22nd (Monday)]
FBS/WS- me.
F(serial)WS/BS- him.
Madhatters. More Ddays than birthdays, at this point. His OC, my OC...
UPDATE: Divorcing after almost 20 years.
imagoodwitch ( member #23375) posted at 1:53 AM on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2013
I don't mean in any way to trivialize this but..... how much caffeine do you consume?
The reason I am asking is, I have been teetering between screaming and crying lately. Both are anxiety reactions for me and I cut my caffeine in half a couple of days ago and I noticed a difference.
Some days I can't even calm down enough to meditate and I really don't want to go to the Dr. for meds. I also try to watch my sugar intake as that seems to ramp things up as well.
If its any consolation, my anxiety has been a little up lately.
Ordinary average everyday sane psycho super goddess
burnt_toast (original poster member #16891) posted at 1:53 AM on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2013
Want2help
Actually yes and no. This has always been my favorite way to cope, but I spent some time in a wheelchair and although I an doing better, I still am quite limited. I do the occasionnal walking, but anxiety tends to strike on my recuperation days. 
I may have not gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I needed to be.
- Douglas Adams
burnt_toast (original poster member #16891) posted at 1:57 AM on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2013
Imagoodwitch,
I quit all caffeine 6 months ago, and I'm not going back anytime soon! 
Not going for the meds either. We're talking situationnal/adaptation anxiety there, rarely panick attacks, and no depression or suicidal thoughts associated. My life is challenged, not turned upside down. 
[This message edited by burnt_toast at 8:03 PM, July 22nd (Monday)]
I may have not gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I needed to be.
- Douglas Adams
imagoodwitch ( member #23375) posted at 2:01 AM on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2013
Good for you on the caffeine!
With your limited mobility at the moment, can you swim? Even a modified swim with a kick board kind of swim?
Want2 is right about the exercising especially with situational anxiety.
I also started doing yoga in the morning around the end of May, it has helped.
Ordinary average everyday sane psycho super goddess
burnt_toast (original poster member #16891) posted at 2:07 AM on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2013
No swimming for this gal - I'd love to! I still have a lot of work before I can do that again. I have issues in my neck and upper back. The feet are actually better, I can do light hikes or walks or climb steps, but my recuperation time is measured in days. That's when I need other tools to cope until the next outing.
Good try though! 
[This message edited by burnt_toast at 8:08 PM, July 22nd (Monday)]
I may have not gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I needed to be.
- Douglas Adams
InnerLight ( member #19946) posted at 6:07 AM on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2013
The Nature Principle by Richard Louv describes how we all do better mentally and physically when we spend more time in nature.
Books by Barbara Fredrickson. She researches positive psychology and habits that improve mental and physical health.
Choosing Easy World by Julia Hamrick
Personal creativity - any crafts you can do with a group, or another friend. This is the best!
I just signed up for mypaperpumpkin.com a paper craft monthly subscription kit for easy fun simple projects.
[This message edited by InnerLight at 12:08 AM, July 23rd (Tuesday)]
BS, 64 yearsD-day 6-2-08D after 20 years together
The journey from Armageddon to Amazing Life happens one step at a time. Don't ever give up!
letitout ( member #38288) posted at 3:37 PM on Wednesday, July 24th, 2013
I have severe anxiety problems and meds do work for me. I would like to get off of them sometime though.
Quitting coffee did help me.
My IC does this thing (forget what she calls it) but it is a device that alternates a beeping sound in your ears while you picture yourself in a safe place or in a anxiety situation and it does something to your brain chemistry. Sorry I can't be more specific on that, if you have an IC you may want to ask her/him.
She also has me alternate tapping my shoulders with my arms crossed or my legs when I feel anxiety and that actually helps quite a bit. I will be sitting in traffic tapping my self and wondering what the drivers think of me doing that crazy tapping.
I know this sounds crazy, but my IC has me put myself in anxiety situations (not severe ones)to help desensitize myself from it.
I know my suggestions all sound wierd. Hang in there. I know I am getting better slowly and sending hope that you will also get some relief.
BW 57, WH 66, 19 yo twins
Married 28 years
2 years of $$$$$$ prostitutes.
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