Getting out of my comfort zone.: I am able... - Anxiety Support

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Getting out of my comfort zone.

moley64 profile image
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I am able to cope reasonably well with my anxiety when I stick to activities that are within my comfort zone. However I become very anxious as soon as I do something that is out of the ordinary. Yesterday I accompanied my wife to a pamper day at a health spa.

We started out by sitting around the indoor pool. It was very warm and I felt uncomfortable and my anxiety and panic started to rise. I went for a paddle in the pool which also seemed very warm. All of the time I felt very warm in the spa area and was troubled by anxiety and at times I became close to having a panic attack. Because this was my wife's treat I stuck it out. After visiting the spa area we had our treatments, massage and facial etc. We had in advance booked extra time. Our treatments lasted for 1 hour and 40 minutes, most of the time I felt anxious and trapped. I felt fearful that I would be overcome with a panic attack. This was the first time that I had visited the spa and felt somewhat claustrophobic in it. It was like a rabbit warren. By the time that we had finished I felt exhausted. I used various techniques when I was feeling particularly anxious which got me through. I have tears in my eyes as I wonder why simply spending a day at a health spa should be such a difficult experience.

Please could you give me your thoughts on how you cope in such situations.

Very best wishes

Mark

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moley64
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Aazz profile image
Aazz

I completely understand how frustrating it is to feel anxiety and discomfort over something that really shouldn't and I feel for you.

The only advice I can possibly offer is to prepare yourself before hand remind yourself that you might feel uncomfortable. Visualize yourself going there in a calm and happy state and try to visualize yourself in this way through all the possible steps you will take in the activity.

Also I think if you didn't it would be a good idea to let your wife know how you feel and ask her to support you through it.

You hacked it for her during the treatment so she could have a good time so I'm sure in future situations she can help you get through them :)

moley64 profile image
moley64 in reply to Aazz

Thanks for your thoughtful comments.

I seem to have a comfort zone around me. When I in that bubble I am reasonably happy. I then think that I can do more things and then I am hit with a sledge hammer of anxiety.

Best wishes

Mark

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