Your browser does not support the audio element.<\/audio>
\n<\/p>\nHi there. This is Abs, and I am going to sit with you for a bit while we get this anxiety under control. If it helps, you can close your eyes and hear my voice, or, if you\u2019d prefer, you can read along on your screen.<\/p>\n
Before we begin, let me just say that I know how uncomfortable you are right now. It\u2019s really awful to be taken over by anxiety but,\u00a0I promise you, I have been there many times, and I am 100% confident that you will get through this episode. \u00a0I am going to help you. You are not alone.<\/p>\n
First, take a breath in through your nose as deeply as you can; then release it through your mouth with a whooshing sound. This is a calming breath\u2014the intake of oxygen signals your brain that it needs to send out some \u201cfeel good\u201d chemicals. Let\u2019s see if we can get those to kick in.<\/p>\n
Take another breath.<\/h2>\n
Now, this is going to sound weird, but try not to resist the panic\u2014don\u2019t try to cut it off or stop it in any way. Panic operates in a cycle: the more time you spend trying to stop it, the more intense it gets. You know how they say you have to ride the wave instead of fight it? Well here is your wave\u2026just go with it. You will not drown.<\/p>\n
Take another breath.<\/h2>\n
Next, start talking to yourself\u2014out loud works best. Tell yourself, \u201cthis too shall pass\u201d or \u201cI am okay.\u201d Keep saying the words over and over again.<\/p>\n
Another breath.<\/h2>\n
Are you still talking? Good. Now try to make yourself more comfortable. Loosen anything constraining you, like a bra or tight jeans or even a hair scrunchie. Naked, if possible, is good.<\/p>\n
Breathe.<\/h2>\n
Okay, last step: cool down. Panic tends to produce heat so grab a cold washcloth or icepack. Splash cold water on your face and neck. Blast the a\/c. If it is cool out, you may want to take a walk.<\/p>\n
Keep repeating your mantra and stay cool (literally) until your body starts to regulate.<\/p>\n
Another breath.<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n