Why do things get worse before they get better?

[dgreen97]

I'm working on anxiety reduction techniques right now like deep breathing twice a day and exercise however I notice that sometimes after I do these techniques I actually feel worse than I did before. Why is it that when you're practicing the right things to bring your stress and anxiety level down you can actually feel worse before you start feeling better?

[kconnors]

Hi,

That's a good question . . . for me, when I was just beginning to manage my anxiety, I had the same results and it almost made me want to stop but I kept going . . . I figure you might feel worse because reality brain is finally standing up to anxiety brain and this is different from before . . . for me, anxiety just ran rampant and, unfortunately, I became comfortable with the sensation . . . not that I liked it, just comfortable because I knew what to expect. When I started to manage the situation, change was in the air so that broke my comfort zone and made me feel worse or at least odd . . . it was a new experience and I had not yet become comfortable that anxiety did not have to rule my life . . . .in any case, I would recommend that you just keep on going and see this as a good thing . . .that you are creating a new type of comfort zone not ruled by anxiety but guided by your goals . . .take care, kc

[angielee]

How are you feeling? I know when I'm dealing with anxiety I too try to some activity or exercise but I feel excessive tiredness during that time.