As I promised, here are a few techniques to deal with anticipatory fear, anxiety and the like. I don't have any techniques for dealing with the rational fears we all have and should have, like being afraid if you see a dangerous person, animal or place; fears that keep us from making stupid mistakes; and fear of our clueless government and the oligarchy that has bought-and-paid-for the career politicians who want to enslave us all to their stupid pie in the sky ideas (that don't work and can't work). Be very afraid of them.
But the following techniques, from Amy Zerner and my book, "The Soulmate Path," which we hope you own and have enjoyed, work well on helping one deal with irrational fears:
When unwanted thoughts intrude, snap yourself back into the present moment by wearing a rubber band on your wrist and snapping it.
Focus on something that you can touch or taste. That will distract your racing thoughts by putting your mind on something other than you and your fear of getting an attack.
Go through with what you have to do, no matter how you are feeling; never retreat.
Keep trying and you will make progress. Believe that you have the capacity to change.
Always breathe through it when you feel anticipatory fear; take a deep breath, hold it as long as you can, and let it out slowly.
Give comfort to your inner child, not criticism. Treat yourself the way you would treat a frightened child; be like the most gentle and patient parent you can conceive of.
Practice affirmations and positive imaging.
Lighten up and laugh at yourself and, oh yes, love yourself more.
