You are listening to a meditation from Sound Science Soul.
Driving anxiety can occur when you are just generally anxious while driving,
Or a panic attack can come out of nowhere,
Or driving anxiety can result from incidents related to driving,
Whether from a car accident,
Or being yelled at,
Or in any way feeling unsafe while in a car.
This can cause your nervous system to become stuck in fight or flight while you are driving,
Putting you on edge,
Causing uncomfortable or scary feelings in your body.
This meditation can be performed before or after driving,
Or while driving if you keep your eyes open and can remain present and focused.
Doing this meditation before driving can not only calm you,
But also increases your awareness so you are prepared for driving.
It will also help you control any negative emotions you may experience during driving such as agitation or frustration with other drivers or traffic delays.
If you are in the midst of a serious panic attack or anxiety,
You should of course pull over until it subsides until you feel calmer.
This meditation is only to be used while driving when you have a lower level of anxiety.
We will walk through a simple breath exercise in order to engage your vagus nerve and your parasympathetic nervous system to bring you into a state of calm.
The magic here is to breathe in through the nose as long as you like,
But to breathe out steadily and slowly for much longer than the inhale.
This is what activates the parasympathetic nervous system.
You can use the breath exercise while at a stop light or a stop sign so you can stay as focused as possible while driving.
It is also helpful to sit in the car before driving for a few minutes and practice the breathing exercise.
While doing this,
Sit with your eyes closed and set the intention to have a peaceful drive.
Let's begin with the breath.
Breathe in through your nose as long as you like,
Filling your abdomen like a balloon.
And hold the breath briefly.
Slowly and steadily breathe out through the mouth,
Releasing the breath in a constant stream.
The breath emptying from your abdomen.
Feel your body become calmer and feel yourself become more present.
Come into the present moment,
Trust in this moment.
Listen to these affirmations and practice the breath as you see fit.
It is not necessary to focus on these affirmations,
They can play in the background while you focus on driving.
They will be heard by your subconscious and help to change your mindset around driving.
Please remember always keep your eyes open and on the road and put your safety first.
Regularly check your speed in your mirrors and if you begin to feel sleepy,
Pull over.
As you drive and become more present,
Begin to notice the seat under your body.
Your hands and fingers touching the steering wheel.
Notice the cars around you,
The road,
The buildings.
If you see any trees.
And all the individual aspects of the environment around you as you pass it.
Notice any thoughts you are thinking and if they are causing agitation or anxiety.
Notice the thoughts but do not give them power,
Instead watch them.
Let's begin the affirmations.
You are safe.
You are safe to be in your body.
The universe supports you and has your greatest good in mind.
You are safe and confident as you drive.
You are safe,
Careful and alert.
You drive safely and skillfully.
You can deal with any situation that arises while driving.
You will arrive right on time in perfect time.
Your driving skills get better every time you drive.
You are in control of your car,
Your vehicle and your driving.
You are relaxed.
You are grateful for the privilege to drive.
You are grateful you have transportation.
You find joy and peace in driving.
Driving gives you new opportunities.
You drive with confidence and ease.
You are not affected by the actions or frustrations of other drivers.
You release your anxiety.
You enjoy driving.
You are aware of your surroundings at all times.
You remain present.
You are a focused driver.
You relax and navigate traffic with ease.
You love the freedom driving gives you.
You remain calm no matter what the road conditions are.
You navigate any driving delays,
Wrong turns or mistakes with ease.
Life supports you.
You are safe.
You are in control of your emotions and anxiety while driving.
You remain present while driving.
You are free of anxiety and worry while driving.
You feel rested,
Energized and calm while driving.
You are relaxed and happy while driving.
You remain calm during any situation while driving.
Driving is easy and enjoyable for you.
You appreciate the freedom driving gives you.
You remain aware while driving.
You are a confident,
Calm driver.
You are calm and focused even during stressful events while driving.
Finally these affirmations as often as needed.
You are worthy of feeling safe and overcoming your anxiety.
Be well.