Mindfulness Meditation for Panic Disorder

Mindfulness Meditation for Panic Disorder Panic Disorder Coping Print Mindfulness Meditation for Panic Disorder By Katharina Star, PhD facebook linkedin Katharina Star, PhD, is an expert on anxiety and panic disorder. Dr. Star is a professional counselor, and she is trained in creative art therapies and mindfulness. Learn about our editorial policy Katharina Star, PhD Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on November 29, 2019 Mindfulness meditation. Getty Images Credit: PeopleImages More in Panic Disorder Coping Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Related Conditions People with anxiety disorders are often prone to frequent worrying, feelings of nervousness, and negative thinking. For example, many people with panic disorder spend time worrying about the future  or stressing about the past. Fortunately, relaxation techniques can help counteract these symptoms. Relaxation techniques are practices you can learn on your own, or with the guidance of a professional. These activities are aimed at assisting you in slowing down your thoughts, letting go of stress  and opening up to deep relaxation. Such techniques can help counteract many of the cognitive and physical symptoms of panic disorder and anxiety. Common relaxation techniques include deep breathing, yoga, visualization, massage, and progressive muscle relaxation (PMR). Mindfulness meditation is another common relaxation skill that can assist with stress and anxiety reduction. Relaxation Techniques for Help With Anxiety Disorders What Is Mindfulness Meditation? Mindfulness meditation is a relaxation technique that brings your awareness back to the present. During mindfulness practice, the meditator allows thoughts to arise without trying to stop or judge them. For example, unpleasant thoughts related to fear, judgment, blame, and worry may come up. Mindfulness is the act of acknowledging these thoughts  and allowing them to pass. Mindfulness meditation is based on the idea that most people push away or ignore their present thoughts and feelings. Many believe that if they ignore negative thoughts, those thoughts will simply go away. But mindfulness actually allows you to detach from negative thinking by facing thoughts without reaction. By letting uncomfortable thoughts pass without reacting, you can develop a new response to fear and anxiety. Over time, and with practice, mindfulness meditation can help create inner harmony, clarity, and peace. Mindfulness Meditation: How Do I Do It? Getting Started When you first begin to practice mindfulness meditation, it may be helpful to do so in a quiet, distraction-free area. The time of day you decide to meditate can be determined by your particular needs. For instance, some people prefer to start the day off with meditation, reducing morning anxiety and setting a clear and positive tone for the day. Others prefer to meditate at night, letting go of the stress of the day, and preparing for a good night’s rest. How to Start Meditating Try to set aside at least five to 10 minutes to sit in meditation, gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable with your practice.Start off sitting or lying down in a comfortable position.Close your eyes and begin your meditation with a breathing exercise.Next, simply notice your thoughts, allowing any ideas to come to your mind.Keep a nonjudgmental attitude as you let yourself remain in the present with your inner voice.When your meditation feels complete, take a few deep breaths and open your eyes. How to Sit When Learning to Meditate A Word From Verywell Mindfulness meditation may sound simple enough, but even routine meditators find it difficult from time to time. In fact, many people experience heightened anxiety when they first sit down to meditate. Motivation and desire may also wane from day to day, so try to be patient with yourself and your meditation practice. If you stick with your meditation practice, you will learn to sit with uncomfortable thoughts. Only through regular practice will mindfulness meditation become less challenging, help you to lower anxiety, and bring you a sense of inner peace. 6 Ways to Fit Your Meditation Practice Into Your Day