you have ever felt comfortable driving , then that is something you learned , so if you are uncomfortable now , you can relearn how to be comfortable again .
Driving Anxiety Tips
Here are some tips to help you get back on the road feeling safe and comfortable and confident . If you are currently not driving due to fear , I highly recommend that you seek help as many have been able to resume driving with the help of a good Therapist or Hypnotherapist .
• The basics : Avoid driving on an empty stomach . Pay attention to how you feel after eating certain foods , especially those high in sugar or simple carbs ( bread , pastries , soft drinks ). Drinking alcohol the night before can also trigger blood sugar imbalances . Also , if you are driving while sleep deprived , you are asking for trouble . Start by taking care of yourself .
• Caffeine : is a known trigger for anxiety . Some of my clients have felt a marked relief in anxiety just by cutting back on caffeinated beverages .
• Consider car pooling : If you are engaged in conversation you are less liable to think anxious thoughts . You also have to drive half as much . Think this one over carefully , as some people are more distracted while conversing while driving .
• Manage your stress : A common cause for anxiety is extended periods of overwhelming stress . Do what you can to lower your stress level : exercise , take more breaks , meditation , yoga , etc .
• Affirmations : Hand write , in script , some positive affirmation about your ability to drive calm , comfortable and relaxed . For example " I ' m calm , comfortable and relaxed while driving and enjoying listening to music ( the radio , audio books , etc .)" Read them right before you go to bed and right after you wake up . Say them out loud and imagine yourself driving while feeling calm and relaxed . Don ' t underestimate the power of this simple exercise .
• What really stops most people is the anticipatory anxiety : " Oh my God , I need to drive tomorrow out to the west side . I just know this is going to cause me a lot of anxiety . I ' m already feeling it !" Instead , try saying something like " Yeah , if I feel anxious I know I can handle it ."
• Desensitization : This is a therapeutic technique which can help you become more comfortable with what is fearful . I use desensitization with clients while they are in hypnosis . It involves taking small steps to put yourself in situations that trigger anxiety . For example , if you can ' t even drive your car , then you might start by sitting in the parked car in the driveway or on the street with the engine on but not moving . Notice whatever anxiety comes up and just be with it . Do that for longer periods of time until you can sit in the car , engine running , without