Topic Tuesday / 14 July 7pm AEST / Fear; What would you do if you weren't afraid?

[simply_me]

I find breathing techniques are effective if I can find a space where I can be by myself (also when trying to go to sleep). Utilising it when anxiety levels are going through the roof and people are in close proximity is another matter altogether (for me anyway).

[Jacques]

i find music help with destractions too, takes your mind off of things, helps you focus on something else.

[Former-Member]

Yes, same @Jacques music is always a part of my relaxation 

[greenspace]

I can relate to that, @simply_me
one of my goals is to be more relaxed when getting to know people, and it can be difficult to use anxiety management techniques while interacting with someone.

[Jacques]

yes i was put onto a lady who is a mindfullness guru, you can download her videos off youtube and podcasts from her web site, her name is Tara Brach, i often listen to her podcasts when i am really anxious,  she helps you stay in the moment,  she is really good.

[NikNik]

There are actually some preventative exercises you can practice, which will increase your skills in managing anxious moments when they hit...

It revolves around the practice of mindfulness -

Several times a day, notice that you're basically alright. Noticing that you're actually alright right now is not about the "power of positive thinking" (said in a Tony Robbins style voice) 

Rather, making yourself aware of a simple but profound fact: In this moment I am alright. You are sensing the truth in your body,  that it is breathing and living and okay. You are recognising that your mind is functioning fine no matter what negative thoughts are dwelling in your mind at that moment.

By "right now," it means this instant. When we go into the future, we worry and plan. When we go into the past, we resent and regret.

Look again at the thin slice of time that is the present. In this moment, are you basically okay? Is breathing okay? Is the heart beating? Is the mind working? The answers are always yes.

By practicing this when we're not anxious or facing something we fear, it becomes more automatic and can be quite grounding.

[soul]

Jacques - I like to be really tired at night too before I go to sleep as this is usually a prime time for my mind to be racing with scary thoughts.

[Jacques]

sorry guys i have to go, thank you all so much for the discussion, it has been great, thankyou @NikNik for taking the time to start the conversation you are so good to everyone here.

Thank you All, stay safe and Warm

Jacques

[NikNik]

Thanks @Jacques
Hope you're taking care of yourself tonight and keeping warm too.

[Jacques]

Yes it is not nice waking up in the middle of the night in a panic