Hi lostone and samsara,

Yes, the breathing and the holding are proven methods and are included in all sorts of relaxation programmes.

I've often thought that relaxation methods are so widespread (yoga and buddhism for instance) along with various meditations, that simply relaxing ourselves must be an age old problem, and worldwide too.

It does help to know that we are not alone, although it doesn't make the anxiety go away.

Cheers, M

PS - Think of all the tranquilisers that have been produced and consumed, billions of them. The very name - tranquilisers - to make people 'tranquil' - the Spanish name for peace - 'tranquila'.

So much anxiety.