I'm new to the program, and the first two days I had a surge of energy after listening to the CD's and reading the workbook. So yesterday, after a few days home-bound, I rode my bike to visit a friend, took the bus to a movie, and rode back in the cold air. After all the excitement, I woke up today with a head-cold, a bit sleep-deprived, and generally exhausted. Can anyone offer advice how to use my new found energy a little at a time, without making myself ill?!

DON'T KNOW ABOUT ENERGY BUT I AM READY TO START WEEK 4 AND WAS URGED TO SLOW DOWN. JUST PASSING THAT ALONG.

hi naturelover,

i'm a "veteran" not going through this for the first time. but i do have a suggestion.
maybe this is obvious--but try doing a little less next time. it's a bit of a guessing game. it can even be kinda fun to try to get that proper balance. (and it sounds like it wasn't all bad--sounded like a good trip and a worthy goal.)
the goal seemed good. was it "get out of the house"? if so -- you definately accomplished it.
you just want to refine your goal-setting/skills a bit. so, maybe just going to visit your friend or taking a bike ride was enough. so next time maybe instead of riding so far and then also the movie--maybe either or.
still, it was a really good effort.
the more you try -- the better you'll get at quitting before you're all worn out. maybe, like a lot of us, you're used to pushing yourself to the brink--
that's alright. that's why you're here--to learn how to better pace yourself. . . good for you!

ps. like that username!

That's very good advice, especially that it can be fun to seek my happy medium.
Thank you, MC GRACE, for your thoughtful response.
-Adam

i have been away from the program since this time last year. It works i have mostly conquered the get up and leave panic attacks or think i am going to die spells. Now i just shake them off and see how long there going to last like a a contest or something. this program has taught me that this is not a life threatning disease and is maintanable without meds. the best advice i have gotten so far is the saying. Crazy people dont know they are crazy. Hope its the truth
keep going
chris

Thank you, Deb and Chris, for your encouragement.
-Adam

Could we try moderation?
When I say "we" I mean that I need to learn the lesson, too.
~Lynnier.