Dealing with Anxiety before a Furcon

hello Papabear, I need some advice. I'll be flying to Further Confusion in a few days and that presents a problem. I get so wound up and anxious before going to a convention that I can't get any sleep the night before. Can you offer any tips on how I can relax and get the sleep i need for the day ahead? Thanks! 

Baar Orso

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Hi, Baar,

It depends on what you mean and what is causing this feeling. Are you worried about your flight and the trip itself? Or are you just overly excited about all the fun you're going to have? Or are you worried that the con won't live up to your expectations?

There are a number of things you can do.  If you are nervous about flying, you can: 1) try to keep your mind off it by reading, watching movies, playing games on a hand-held device, or listening to music; 2) avoid caffeinated beverages that can make you more nervous; 3) try calming breathing exercises; 4) or, if all else fails, talk to your doctor about possible medication to calm down.

If you are overly excited about the upcoming convention, some techniques above will help, such as avoiding caffeine and distracting yourself with activities. You can also exercise, do yoga or Tai chi (or Qigong), try meditation, or just fill your time by talking to family and friends and keep yourself busy until the time comes to leave.

It is important to try to eat healthily and get sleep. You don't want to arrive tired, do you? When you go to bed, make sure the room is dark, cool, and quiet. Do progressive muscle relaxations once you get in bed. You do this by starting with the toes. Become conscious of your toes and relax them. Let them go. You might be surprised you are tightening muscles and not realizing it. Work your way up your body: feet, calves, thighs, pelvic region, lower back, abdomen, upper back, shoulders, arms, hands, neck, jaw, until all your muscles are released. Once you unclench all your muscles, you will be surprised how easy it is to sleep. During the day, eat light meals with non-beef meats, fresh veggies.... you probably know the drill. Lots of water.

If you are worried about the con itself, well, not much I can do to guarantee a fun time, but you may do that more successfully if you aren't stressed about it and don't go in with any unrealistic expectations. Hey, you're a bear, right? So, you gotta approach it as a bear. Be relaxed, cool, laid back, taking things in stride. Bare necessities, bear!

See you soon!

Papabear Grubbs