I have been very self conscious most of my life. I am noticing that since I have been able to admit who I am to myself and started the process of coming out(wife and close friend so far) that I am becoming more comfortable in social situations. The past week I have been using self talk and basically just reminding myself who I am when uncomfortable feelings come up at meetings and such. Simply embracing my femininity and telling myself that I am just a women like any other has given me a level of comfort that o honestly don't remember ever having:)
Yes, I have noticed that a lot of my anxiety has decreased when I just let myself be the girl I am and don't worry about what others think. In fact a few times when I had to face stressful situations I have mentally turned things over to my 'girl side' and let her deal with the situation. Usually that has worked. So, yes, I can relate and I see it as part of us growing into our true selves.
Of course I still deal with anxiety arising from various dysphoric situations, but that another issue.