Today I will be on an airplane.
Just a few months ago I would have dreaded the upcoming experience.
While I am far along in my Recovery journey and would not have tried to avoid
the trip, it would have been a very uncomfortable activity. But I have learned
that it will be just that: uncomfortable. Not excruciating. Not unbearable.
Just uncomfortable.
Dr. Low frequently reminds us that we crave comfort, and
when we begin to dread discomfort we develop a vicious cycle of fear and
anxiety. I now understand, through my Recovery training, that should I
experience chest palpitations, intense sweating, blurry vision, and other “intense”
symptoms, I should accept them as merely feelings and sensations, which I
cannot control. I can control my thoughts
and impulses. I am often amazed by how quickly the sensations will dissipate
when I do not work them up.
I acknowledge that I am feeling nervous about the trip
today. I am a little shaky and my stomach is jittery. Yet I am not concerned
about these sensations because they are an average experience before I fly. Of
course, I do not like them, but I’m not letting them bother me. They will wax
and wane throughout the day, but by not working them up I will minimize their
impact and proceed with my day. In the past I would want to call someone to
discuss my “agonies” for hours. Now I know that such a bid for comfort rarely
resolves symptoms and, in fact, enhances them.
I am bearing the discomfort and fulfilling my work
responsibilities. I am moving forward in my Recovery journey. I am taking
control away from anxiety. And for all of that I heartily endorse!
