Hi,
Yeah I used to have bad anxiety. Feeling way better! Never used meds. Have had only 1 panic attack in the last nine months.
What has worked for me with relaxation techniques is deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation.
I also did meditation for awhile, but I found the flexing and release of tension of all the muscles in my body did better for me. Additionally, I use exercise as a way to release stress and anxiety among many other natural things.
If you can't afford a therapist, I highly recommend the book The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook by Edmond J Bourne - Fourth Edition-2005. It is a ala-cart menu on how to help your self with anxiety. Everything from self talk, nutrition, etc. etc. It is great!
I wish you luck, you will do Well!
-Zen
Yoga, Thai Chi, meditation........better then medication
I love putting on soft music (any relaxation CD) and just lay still and focus on the music. This helps me.
Have you tried yoga? It is GREAT for the mind and body. You can go get a book/dvd to help you out. You can find em at any book store really. It does really help.