I want to start dating again but every time I think of dating, romantic relationships or being physically intimate, I get a cold, panicked feeling in my chest. What is it and what can I do?

It's so hard to put ourselves out there again after having a difficult and painful romantic experience. I can't say for sure, but I believe you may be experiencing some symptoms of anxiety. It makes so much sense to be anxious about becoming vulnerable again when there's a risk you may get hurt again. I believe the only way to manage one's anxiety is to sit with it fully, allow it to be there, without judging it or trying to push it away. When we can make friends with feelings of fear, fear loosens its grip on us. I believe allowing it to be there without letting it guide your actions (whether that's getting into another relationship or avoiding getting into one) is one of the best ways to manage fear. May you be well!