Holding my breath when anxious

[Panic1971]

I am becoming aware that I am constantly holding my breath. If I am anxious about anything I hold my breath and tense my stomach. I only realise that I am doing it once the panicky feelings start.

I have been doing breathing exercises and have found the Hyperventilation Syndrome book by Dinah Bradley really helpful, but am unable to stop the automatic holding of breath when anxious.

I am now worried that this will do some serious damage to me.

Any advice or tips???

Does anyone else find that they are doing this, and if so, how do you stop it?

[rach****]

Somebody posted something about clenching their fists when breathing in and opening hands when breathing out that helps me cause I hold my breath and hold stomach tense also.