Forums:
Hi Everyone - I returned to work today and have been assualted by anxiety and fear. I think the anxiety and fear is actually what is making me feel crummy. I cannot understand where this is coming from and it was overwhelming. Is this another stage in the process of die-off?
Can you suggest some reading or something to help?
I have a lot of anxiety
I have a lot of anxiety around work and my IC. It seems my symptoms are always worse on days I work and travel to work. I do a little meditation in the morning with some positive affirmations or mantras as well as deep breathing exercises. I also try to eat as cleanly as possible and drink only water so I know that it isn't what I'm eating and just reaffirms the anxiety-induced heightened symptoms so I know what I'm dealing with. Hope this helps :)
It can absolutely be
It can absolutely be emotional die-off, even if it seems too strong to be "just that."
It can also reflect conscious/subconscious fears around working -- very natural concerns -- what if I can't find a bathroom?, how will I make it thru the day?, etc. These fears create stress which creates different chemical changes in your body that can create anxiety or worsen the die-off anxiety already going on.
I'll try to think of more coping strategies, but here's one: Matia said an excellent thing for anxiety is putting a little lavender essential oil right between the breasts. I've done it a couple times... I think it worked unless it also just went away on its own.
You can also sit quietly, in or out of meditation, and ask yourself "Why am I afraid?" or "What's going on here?" and see what answers/images come up.
Thanks
Thanks for your caring responses. It seems like there has been a shift from the physical aspects of this condition to the mental. The physical is still there, but is under the surface, while the mental is front and center. I appreciate your suggestions greatly and am beginning to incorporate the meditation into my life.