On 2 Aug 2004 at 15:11, bobvolin_at_optonline.net wrote: > We used an approach modeled after a psychological > technique called "systematic desensitization." Our method > involved lots of talking, lots of time, and "baby steps" (which we > discussed and agreed on at each level). Lots of good advice so far from Bob and the others. My technique is closest to what Bob describes - now I have a fancy name to call it :-). The only thing I'd add is that early in the process, I ask the person how long they can hold their breath. If they don't know, I suggest 30 seconds and they usually agree. Then I discuss what they have to do and keep pointing out that they have 30 seconds to deal with it. I keep reinforcing that idea that they have a lot of time. I usually have them invert and just concentrate on hanging and holding their breath without having to do anything - first time count to five, later to ten... Also, I think that the hand-holding (both physical and figurative) does help - if you just stand there saying that they'll be ok, it's not nearly as comforting as actually holding their hands and maintaining contact. One question to everyone - I find a lot of folks in this situation will practice for a brief time and then want to break - not returning to the practice until the next pool session. I wonder, should I let them stop or encourage them to continue for a few more inverts? I worry that by stopping early they aren't going to reinforce their confidence so much as reinforce their anxiety. At the same time, I worry most about pushing them too much. Mike *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Mon Aug 02 2004 - 15:36:32 PDT
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