Posted by TamaraJ on February 26, 2005, at 9:43:39
In reply to How do you soothe yourself?, posted by jasmineneroli on February 26, 2005, at 0:15:31
I can relate to what you are saying and going through. I still haven't mastered the art of self-soothing, but I keep trying. Some things I have been trying to lately are: 1) stepping back and trying to gain some perspective by looking at all I have to do, then asking myself if I really need to do it all, or do I really need to do it all today (usually I realize that, in the grand scheme of things, some of the things I was putting pressure on myself to do can wait); 2) practicing saying "No" more (to avoid over-extending myself); 3) trying to make some projects just "me" projects (like spending a day or a few hours refinishing an old table); 4) going for long walks (especially along the river); 5) listening to music and allowing myself to be silly and dance around the house to old, upbeat songs (I have music on pretty much no matter what I am doing - I find it hard to concentrate without it.).
Have you thought about perhaps taking a yoga class? I am planning to start yoga very soon. I have heard a lot of positive things about it and how it can really, with practice, help keep a person centered and calm, yet still energized and motivated.
Take care of yourself Jas. I hope you can develop and hone one or more self-soothing methods that bring you the relief and peace of mind you deserve.
Tamara
> Um, I've been spending a lot of time lately pondering the psychological aspects of my GAD. I'm wondering how much I perpetuate states that end up worsening my anxiety, in order to try not to notice my anxiety...............if that makes any sense.
> Like, I'm always taking on more and more responsibilities and I just CAN'T ignore these things, or have someone else do them. I let my creative ideas run amok, and end up not getting ANYTHING done. This causes more stress and anxiety (and then, also fires me up to get lots accomplished). Then I go into "MUST ACT" mode, and I'm truly super-effective likes this and feel happy and relieved. I get anxious if something prevents me from taking my decided course of action on the MUST ACT road and have had panic or rage attacks as a result. The whole cycle is exhausting.
>
> I'm thinking that I need to learn how to "soothe" myself. I'm very good at helping soothe others..it was my profession for some time, and my role as Mom too. I just only know how to be all action and thinking. Escalating that appears to be my self-soothing style.
>
> I would like to learn new ways.
> How do you soothe yourself in anxiety or other highly emotional states?
> I would greatly appreciate any input.
> Thanks,
> Jas
>
poster:TamaraJ
thread:463543
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20050225/msgs/463676.html