What is the best way to relax while driving?

Question

I got my license 6 months ago and I was never afraid of driving--until the second time I drove somewhere by myself. This was when I suddenly became very panicky and nervous. It wasn't a full blown panic attack but I was suddenly very nervous and uncomfortable. The only thing I wanted to do was stop driving and get out of the car. Of course I was far from home so I was forced to continue to drive in fear.

Ever since that one event (six months ago), I have not been able to drive a car without worrying that it will happen again. Thus, I have barely driven at all. I've only driven alone a few other times since then. The thing is I'm not really afraid of driving for the reason most people are (fear of accidents, etc), I'm paradoxically afraid of driving because I'm afraid I will become scared again.

I know that the most important thing to do on the road is focus, and I'm worried that I'll become so afraid I won't be able to focus and I won't be able to do anything about it because I will be alone in the car and have to--nevertheless--drive to my final destination.

Its basically me overthinking everything--If I could somehow get these negative thoughts out of my mind and relax I think I would be fine. I used to drive long distances with no problem.

Can anyone help me with perhaps techniques to relax while I'm in the car? Or anything that has worked for someone with a fear of driving? Any ideas?

Answer 1

just breathe and know whats going on around you. know that help is just a phone call away if needed, and you CAN always pull over, take a breather, and start up again

have faith in other drivers

you can also try to got soothing sounds for the stereo. like ocean sounds, or indian flutes

mostly though, remember to breath

Answer 2

Possessing inner peace while driving a car protects you from rush reactions, conserve your emotional, mental and physical energies, and saves you from anger, stress and anxiety. Even a small amount of inner peace will help you arrive to your destination happier, calmer and more refreshed, than a nervous, stressed driver who lacks inner peace.

Before entering your car repeat several times:

"I am going to stay calm while driving. No matter what happens the road, I am going to keep calm and relaxed."

# Before starting to drive, tell yourself that driving is a great opportunity to develop patience and tolerance.

# Write a small note saying: "I always remember to stay calm and peaceful. There is inner peace within me." Stick or glue this note somewhere in front of you.

# Realize that the road was made for everyone, not just for you. There are all kinds of drivers, with different personalities and temperaments, all desiring to arrive to their destination. This means that you have to be tolerant, considerate and patient.

# When you feel you are losing your self-control, take 3 deep breaths before reacting.

# If there is a slow car in front of you, imagine that you are VIP, and the car in front of you is guarding you and paving the way for you.

# Always start driving early enough, so that you have enough time to arrive without hurrying.

# Focus on driving. Put your full attention on the driving. Don't let worries or thoughts occupy your mind at this time.

Answer 3

Sometimes masturbation helps. They did a study on this and proved that, yes, masturbation does make the rush hour seem not so bad.

Answer 4

just remember that an official (examiner) has seen the quality of your driving and decided that you are good enough to be out on your own.

play a favourite cd quietly in the background