Heartbeat obsession and my story

[JanAtheCPA]

PPS: here's a perfect example of how a brand-new source of stress led to a significant TMS setback - until the connection was made to past losses:
https://www.tmswiki.org/forum/threa...s-but-swiftly-sent-packing.33536/#post-171812

Just the AWARENESS and ACCEPTANCE of the relationship to the past was enough. She didn't need to spend time reprocessing old grief. She only needed to be aware of the connection.

 

[Booble]

This is a good question. You will probably get some different answers to it. The way I conceptualize it is that I'm bringing something that is unconscious into my conscious awareness where I can then deal with it. Bringing the darkness into the light, so to speak. Sometimes just doing that is enough for me to get symptom relief. Or I can think of it as moving something that is in my primitive, reptilian brain into my higher brain where I can address it in a rational, more logical manner. I can then bring a more evolved understanding to what I'm feeling and put it in context (like awareness that is a holdover from a troubled childhood experience). I have done this using self-help techniques, but some people benefit from a good therapist helping them through it. You will find what works best for you, as long as you are willing to dive in and peel back the onion.

Just want to say this is such a great response. Something that should be read twice to really absorb it all. Nice, Ellen!

 

[Ellen]

I'm reading a novel where the writer said "Anxiety is fear about something that isn't real." It's like we've evolved this fear response to what we just imagine instead of real threats to our survival.

 

[Booble]

I'm reading a novel where the writer said "Anxiety is fear about something that isn't real." It's like we've evolved this fear response to what we just imagine instead of real threats to our survival.

Here's one a boss of mine taught us many years ago:
FEAR as an acronym for:
False
Expectations
Appearing
Real

 

[TG957]

I'm reading a novel where the writer said "Anxiety is fear about something that isn't real." It's like we've evolved this fear response to what we just imagine instead of real threats to our survival.

It is correct. Fear is a concern over something specific: a tiger in the bush, a gun pointed at you, or a rock falling on you from the roof. Anxiety is a general concern over unspecified danger. I call anxiety "a worry in search of a reason".

 

[Stracksstory]

Thanks, everyone, for all the suggestions and stories. It’s just refreshing to be around people who have seen change and who can relate. I have a lot to sit through and figure out, but I am already trying to apply many of the things you all have suggested.

recent random observations:

I have noticed that my body tends to be tensed often to avoid the feeling of my heartbeat. I am trying to release that tension, since it is really a protection from my fear.

Sometimes when I’m working at something, I’m torn between wanting to push through and ignore the siren that my brain seems to be setting off (like heartbeat stuff), or choosing to slow down and do some slow breaths.

 

[JanAtheCPA]

I’m torn between

In fact, this is the TMS mechanism trying to do its (obsolete) job, which is to keep you on edge and alert for danger. YOUR new job is to gently and kindly say "thanks, but that's not necessary". And then force yourself - gently and kindly! - to take those deep breaths.

Mind you, your TMS brain won't like it, and you may have to endure new or worsening symptoms - which, when viewed rationally, are proof of a brain mechanism at work, not a heart problem!