I totally relate to the anxiety = it's very hard to let it go - it's like a trauma that lives in the bones!
SElf soothing is the best thing I know for that - and maybe more EMDR? Anyhow, you must be doing something right because you are relaxing down into your feelings now instead of living in a state of trauma. I'm so happy to hear this! Let's hope the contentment and happiness increases bit by bit throughout this year!!!!