In June 2002, I was a bridesmaid at my cousins wedding when I had my first panic attack (or episode as I called it at the time). I managed to get through the wedding without anyone knowing I was having a problem, but in two months I was going to be a bridesmaid at my sisters wedding. What if I this episode happened to me again at my sisters wedding? Well, it did happen again, well before my sisters wedding.

It started to happen during meetings at work, in the car and at restaurants. I started to stay in a lot, other than work (I seemed to be ok at work unless I was stuck in a meeting). I somehow made it through my sisters wedding without a problem. I definitely had anxiety, but no panic attacks (I was also taking Meclizine at the time for dizziness, which made me drowsy, which is why I think I didnt have a panic attack during the ceremony). After this wedding, I swore I wouldnt be in any more bridal parties.

Well, wouldnt you know it, my other sister goes and gets engaged! At least I had a whole year to prepare. By this time I had done some research online and realized that I was suffering from anxiety and panic attacks. I started going to a support group and found that I was not alone! In group I learned many different tools to help alleviate my anxiety. After a year of weekly sessions, my sisters wedding came and went without a problem!

I was so proud of myself for all of the hard work that I did to get to this point. I graduated from group and have been free of panic attacks ever since. I still have some anxiety, but when this happens I break out my tools. One of the tools that works best for me is to light a scented candle and do my diaphragmatic breathing exercises. Inhaling the calming candle aromas always makes my whole body relax.

Another tool is to get involved in something that will keep my mind busy. I decided to combine these two tools. I started an online business selling relaxing scented candlesCandles that warm your heart and melt your worries away! I wanted to share this tool with others and in doing so, I also helped my own anxiety. Managing the site definitely keeps my mind busy. Although I still have some minor anxiety, my panic attacks have stopped. I know that candles are not a cure for anxiety disorders, but candles definitely helped me. I hope they can help you too! Feel free to visit my site at www.comfycandles.com.