When we get stressed, we tend to hold our breath...especially when we are angry, upset or frightened about something. It was explained to me that by holding our breath we are depriving ourselves of oxygen and so our bodies go into a panic...making the stress even worse..so as simple as it sounds (and by no means am I trying to minimize your situation) taking a series of deep - in our belly breaths it helps to calm our central nervous system. I know for me, I am totally unaware of my breathing when I get stressed out like that and it took awhile for me to learn through practice.
Another one is music... whatever kind makes you feel better...like a release.
There are relaxation CD's out some with water, birds, thunderstorms (not for me thanks..lol) or a stream/woods, etc. I know when you are stressed out the last thing you want to listen to is birds chirping however it can be played when you are not stressed out to help you sleep.
There are also guided imagery CD's..sort of the same concept where someone is walking you through the woods or where ever getting you to concentrate on your body, etc.
With the android markets and iphones, I know they have apps for that now.
Also, David the administrator on here talks alot about how effective meditation is for him. Some of the above is meditation but there are lots of different types. Yoga for example mellows me right out and there is also pilates, which I have yet to try.
Dancing... if you like to dance and if you feel well enough..I know some people get a release out of that... or singing. I think the trick is to do what you are already doing which is asking for suggestions and giving them an honest try. They dont all work for everybody and I find people have to keep trying until something fits for them. Personally, for me, I had to start with the basics..and do the deep breathing. It is amazing as I realized how and where I hold the stress in..
and venting..venting on a forum
anyhow... thats a start. You are doing good and hanging in Laura. I hope the counsellor will help. She will probably have more info on the guided imagery or possibly know of a place where you can get a copy if she doesnt already have one. Where I live, the local library has free e-cd's so that might be a possibility for you.
I feel bad for you... you sound stressed for good reason.
Take care and keep us posted
