Resources

Anti-Panic Exercises

sos Rapid protocol during the attack (≈ 3 minutes)

Guide : When the wave rises: 1) 3-6 breathing (inhale 3 s, exhale 6 s, 10 cycles), 2) targeted release (jaw, shoulders, hands: I consciously relax), 3) visual anchor (I fix my gaze on a stable point or my hand). I repeat the trio until it subsides.
  • I slow the exhale (the nervous system’s natural brake).
  • I choose an anchor point and keep bringing my attention back to it.
  • I remind myself: “This wave is temporary; it will pass.”

record_voice_over SOS anti-panic script (self-talk)

Guide : I speak softly or internally: “My body is triggering an alarm, not a real danger. The attack peaks quickly and comes down by itself. I ride the wave, long exhale; this will pass.”
  • I describe what’s happening (palpitations, sweating) without judging.
  • I replace “I’m going to die” with “this is an alarm, not danger.”
  • I give myself a horizon: “In a few minutes, it will be calmer.”

center_focus_strong 5-4-3-2-1 sensory grounding

Guide : I name 5 things I see, 4 I touch, 3 I hear, 2 I smell (odors), 1 taste in my mouth. I briefly describe each sensation.
  • I return to the “here and now” through the senses.
  • I cut the loop of catastrophic thoughts.
  • I take my time: 20–60 s on each category.

healing Progressive muscle relaxation (2 key areas)

Guide : I contract for 5 s then release for 10 s the jaw (mouth slightly open) and the shoulders (let them drop). 3 cycles per area.
  • I signal to the body that the alert is coming down.
  • I pair PMR with 3-6 breathing.
  • I end with a quick scan of remaining tension.

stairs Anti-avoidance plan (graduated micro-exposures)

Guide : I list triggering contexts (transport, queues, supermarket, meetings) and build a 1→10 ladder. I expose myself progressively, staying until anxiety drops by 50% (or for 10 min).
  • I move up only one step once the current one is manageable.
  • When safe, I stay rather than flee.
  • I log my progress (duration, peak, come-down).

backpack Ready-to-go anti-panic kit

Guide : I prepare a discreet kit: “this will pass” card, earphones + calm playlist, small water bottle, tactile object (pebble/stress ball), notes of the SOS script, QR to a breathing video.
  • I keep the kit in my bag/pocket, reachable in 5 s.
  • I practice using it outside attacks to automate.
  • I set a weekly alert “5-minute calm training”.

monitor_heart Interoceptive exposure (with a pro, optional)

Guide : To befriend internal sensations (racing heart, shortness of breath), some therapies use guided exposures. Consider this with a professional if your attacks are frequent.
  • I don’t do risky exercises alone if I’m unsure.
  • I prioritize a safe, gradual framework.
  • I combine with the breathing/grounding learned above.

Goal: reduce fear of fear. I train my nervous system to come down and I take back space in triggering situations. If attacks are frequent or very disabling, I consult a professional.

Written by Thibaut Comte-Sponville.