Finding Something to Hold on to – The Healing Power of Words.

I recently read ‘Black Rainbow’ by Rachel Kelly, which is the incredible journey of her struggle with depression.

The main focus of the book is about how Rachel’s love of poetry gave her the solace she needed during the darkest of times, and how these words gave her the inner strength to deal with her depression, and eventually recover.

Poetry and prayer proved a valuable tool for Rachel’s family; her mother was also passionate about words and she was able to use these to help Rachel:Continue reading “Finding Something to Hold on to – The Healing Power of Words.”

Chris Bertish – When you Panic, Don’t Panic.

One of the most extreme examples of dealing with panic that I have read about comes from Chris Bertish.  It is not an obvious source of inspiration, because (as far as I know) Chris does not suffer from anxiety and depression.

Chris Bertish Image

“When you panic, don’t panic!”

Chris is an amazing individual; not only is he a big wave surfer (he won the 2010 Mavericks Big Wave Invitational) and adventurer, he is an inspirational figure who shows that with courage and determination you can achieve your dreams.

Putting himself in what only can be described as life threatening situations (on purpose); Chris has had to learn how to control panic.Continue reading “Chris Bertish – When you Panic, Don’t Panic.”

Time to Focus on the Present….. The Power of Now

Accept – Then Act

“Whatever the present moment contains, accept it as if you had chosen it.  Always work with it, not against it”.

Eckhart Tolle

I have recently read ‘The Power of Now’ by Eckhart Tolle; I was introduced to his writings when I first went to ASCA and had an introductory interview with one of their therapists.

What he told me gave me an insight into my situation which literally blew my mind.

If I said to you that at this very moment you are neither anxious nor depressed, what would you say?Continue reading “Time to Focus on the Present….. The Power of Now”

The Importance of Balance in Life.

What happens when we lose our balance?  We fall over.

This is the same when we lose balance in our lives however; the physical act of falling over is replaced with illness.

Balance - by Emily Sea on Unsplash

If you stand on one leg you feel your body wobble and you immediately try to correct the wobble; if you fall over, you make a quick movement to stop yourself falling flat on your face, such as moving your legs, or putting your hands out; your body will do this automatically so you don’t have to think about it.Continue reading “The Importance of Balance in Life.”

Finding a Space to Breathe.

In previous blogs we have explored how stress and anxiety affects our breathing, throwing our bodies out of balance, and leading to the physical symptoms which can cause panic.

While we have covered some simple breathing techniques; my ASCA therapist, Donna, suggested that I find a space where I could focus on my breathing and at the same time use my other senses to help relax my mind and body.

As we chatted we agreed that the gardens in Chiswick House were an ideal location for me.  I described the walk I usually take with Leo, and Donna told me to do two things; firstly to focus on breathing from my stomach as I was walking around, and while doing this to take in the sights, sounds and smells around me. Continue reading “Finding a Space to Breathe.”