[peaceofwork]

Hi everyone. This is my first post on here. I have had some form of anxiety disorder for 20 years more or less. Just recently, however, I have developed the most unnerving symptom which is overly focusing on my breathing. I have had focusing on my heartbeat and obsessing on all sorts of sensations, but this one has been the most difficult because breathing can be controlled. Sometimes I feel like I forget how to breathe and I have to do it manually! Not to mention feeling that I can't get a deep breath. Has anyone been through this and how did you overcome it? I live alone and I'm so scared I'm gong to pass out here by myself because of it. Thanks for your time.

[H3rmit]

I can't get a deep breath if I can't relax my abdomen. Maybe focus on other parts of your body - relaxing them. Stretching can help to get that relaxation. You'll start yawning to get more oxygen for your muscles. That will be a good sign.

If you pass out, you will simply start breathing again, so no reason to worry. (Worrying too much is another problem. Often associated with anxiety, right?)

[peaceofwork]

Thank you so much. Those are good ideas. Worrying too much is an understatement!

[Odee]

Feeling out of breath/choking is the biggest one for me. I have never had that fixation on my heart but I feel like I am probably as bothered by the smothering feeling as much as others are convinced they are having a heart attack.

This thread inspires me to create a thread on why breathing exercises make me feel worse.

[peaceofwork]

Originally Posted by Odee

Feeling out of breath/choking is the biggest one for me. I have never had that fixation on my heart but I feel like I am probably as bothered by the smothering feeling as much as others are convinced they are having a heart attack.

This thread inspires me to create a thread on why breathing exercises make me feel worse.

Me too! Everyone tells me to meditate and do breathing work, but the focusing on my breathing is what makes me anxious! I'm glad I am not alone.

[H3rmit]

Originally Posted by Odee

Feeling out of breath/choking is the biggest one for me. I have never had that fixation on my heart but I feel like I am probably as bothered by the smothering feeling as much as others are convinced they are having a heart attack.

This thread inspires me to create a thread on why breathing exercises make me feel worse.

Another good thing that might distract from the breathing problems is wiggling your toes. It's relaxing and very distant from your heart. It's a thing people do for public speaking to feel grounded and not worry about all the stuff going on in the upper half of your body.

Another thing you could try is to listen to calming music or guided meditations. There are many good youtube channels dedicated to anxiety and relaxation of the mind. You could try to create a safe place in your mind and always go there whenever you feel anxious. I have fainted at home and outside and it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be : ) Our imaginations are always worse than reality. I hope this forum is going to be a helpful for you in dealing with the anxiety. Take care

[peaceofwork]

Originally Posted by chocmouse

Another thing you could try is to listen to calming music or guided meditations. There are many good youtube channels dedicated to anxiety and relaxation of the mind. You could try to create a safe place in your mind and always go there whenever you feel anxious. I have fainted at home and outside and it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be : ) Our imaginations are always worse than reality. I hope this forum is going to be a helpful for you in dealing with the anxiety. Take care

Thanks so much for your help!