Stress Center Peer Support

Hi all, I just started this program last night. Looks great...it seems to include all the advice I've collected over the years.

I do have a problem with the short breathing exercises on the relaxation CD. Whenever I try to count my breath or concentrate I start to hyperventilate. I guess my question here is...am I doomed? Should I keep trying and maybe I'll desensitize myself to the exercise?

Anyone else have this problem? I can do the progressive muscle relaxation and visualization no problem.

There are other ways to breathe that may be more appropriate for you. Try breathing in deeply, hold to the count of 4 and then exhale through pursed lips slowly. Do what works best for you. Then continue on with the visualization and muscle tension/release.

Hi

This is a VERY common question- practise makes perfect- it does feel uncomfortable at first but work it and it'll become very natural.. again you dont have to breathe exactly like she counts- personally I cant! so I do my own thing while doing her suggestions and it works! keep with it the relaxation cd is a major key to recovery!

Best wishes

Thanks for the help, I think I'll just concentrate on breathing from the abdomen and see how that works out for me.

I know that I need to spend more time with the relaxation CD also.

I tried the relaxation cd for the first time last night also. I had a hard time with the breathing as well. And trouble with visualizing. I would start to visualize then my mind would take over. I guess I will just have to keep practicing!!

Hi Mercer. A good way to teach your body to relax is to find a comfortable place to sit, turn off the tv or other noise, close your eyes and visualize something beautiful like a pink cloud, a beautiful sunset, a winter wonderland, or whatever scene is relaxing to you. Just sit and visualize fo about 15 to 20 minutes or how long you can. Do this and the relaxation tape often because "practice makes perfect".

This will help get your body in a relaxed state.

Take care. DeeDee.

deedee!Why did you have to put that beautiful picture of yourself on this forum? Now I'm in love, and I'm depressed that I can't know you any better than in a chat room.

I also had issues with hyperventilating during the breathing portion. I found that I tried too hard to do it to a perfection. Which isn't necessary. I used to lie down and start twitching my legs and such during that portion, due to being uptight and anxious over breathing correctly. I was also worried I wouldn't ever get that part down.

Only 6 days into the program now and boy am I shocked beyond belief over the progress I made, especially with relaxation.

Peace & love.
-Dustin

Hello healingtime.

Thank you for the compliment. You're making me blush.