I think that we have all been in situations that cause us stress and maybe even a little bit of panic if we aren’t careful.  No matter how hard we try to enjoy life and make it fun, it is inevitable that we will have some experiences that aren’t really very pleasant – LIFE!!!

Yesterday I had to do something that could have caused me to completely lose control.  I tried to keep myself relaxed and my mind calm by thinking about my happy place!

And, you know what?!  It actually worked!!!  I had to have an MRI and the last time I had one (about 1.5 years ago), even though it was for my hip, they slid me all the way into the tunnel.  I pretty much freaked out – hyperventilated, broke out in a sweat – it was AWFUL!!!

For yesterday’s MRI, I knew that my entire body would have to go in the tube so I was a little nervous wreck!  

(Not me – but that is the set-up I had.)

I told the technician that I was going to close my eyes as soon as I laid down so that I didn’t see the mask above my face or the inside of the tube!  There was still about a minute of pure panic when she slid me into the tube!!  But – I just forced myself to relax and breath.

I pretended that I was enjoying my happy place (the beach!!!) and it would have worked except the machine was super loud and I was cold!!!  But, I made it though all 20 minutes without freaking out!!!

I truly think that mental visualization and focusing on breathing are a great way to get through many unpleasant situations!

Do you have a way to stay calm in situations that could cause you to panic?
Have you ever had an MRI?  Did you freak out?

Happy Wednesday!

Kim