Relaxing Makes Anxiety Worse

[Jenna17]

Hi there - does anyone else experience symptoms of anxiety (panic, heart palps, dizziness, etc) getting worse upon relaxation? In the past I have enjoyed a nice bath, yoga, or meditation to bring calm. However, after multiple deaths in my family, my husband being out of work, and my dad diagnosed with metastatic cancer, I have not been able to engage in relaxing activities without bringing on panic. Does anyone else have this? I suspect it is that my mind recognizes that I have the "time" to process, and decides to bring everything up during those times when I am less engaged in distraction. Who knows...but it is frustrating when the things that are supposed to help actually make it worse. Can anyone relate?

[jencan]

Yes, I can relate to that. Having been very disturbed by the illnesses of the two people in my life that I'm closest to, over the past year, I now approach the supposedly relaxing parts of my day with fear & suspicion. Gone are my morning dozes, when waking up gently was a breeze & a quiet evening fills me with dread, yet I find I'm too tired to engage in any activity. I guess we must learn to relax properly again, trying meditation (for me) or an absorbing hobby. If you find a way out of your dilemma, I'd be grateful if you'd post your solutions, just as I will for you. Best wishes for serene times ahead.

[Jenna17 in reply to jencan]

I definitely will do. I find keeping warm and cozy helps a lot. I have my electric blanket on all the time to prevent myself from getting chilled. It seems to help a good deal.

[jencan in reply to Jenna17]

Hi Jenna & thanks for that. I've taken to listening to audio books when I go to bed. They often lull me to sleep, despite the earphones & narration! This stops me fretting about my worries & anxiety---I home in on the book & I'm in a better place.