(wonders why baths aren't allowed?? okay if none of my business!) I have very high anxiety bathing, but one of my dogs have taken to guarding the bathroom while I am in there. I didn't even try to train them to do this, they just do. Aren't they smart? That makes it much easier.
I think five phrases is an awesome start. Positive thinking exercises always make me think of "Daily Affirmation, with Stuart Smalley," from Saturday Night Live years ago. Which is an okay association, I suppose, because it makes me giggle.