"Seven years ago, in the midst of leading an extremely active life - a life that included traveling, rigorous dance training, and a full-time commitment to my writing - I developed what the doctors and the media called 'panic attacks'. The symptoms of these attacks were considered classic, but to me they never seemed classic at all; all of it seemed unique and freakish - not being able to swallow at times, the frequent dizzy spells, a heart that raced so fast I couldn't breathe. Before I went to The Option Institute, I believed what the experts had told me - that this was a condition I would probably always have and that tranquilizers would be the best treatment. Based on this belief, I stopped traveling and dancing for fear that too much activity would increase my heart rate, and that this would feel like - or bring on - a panic attack.
A psychologist had once told me that it would take
time - even years - before the cause of the attacks
could be uncovered and released. But, after just
one session at The Institute - a session that, in
fact, did not have a psychological approach, or
more focus on much of my history - I felt more of
a 'release' than I had felt in years. Through a
series of questions that gave me an opportunity
to change my beliefs about my fears, and this 'condition'
- I started to see changes in my physiology. My
panic attacks were coming on less and less and,
after continuing with dialogue sessions, I was able
to stop using medication. The finale, for me, came
after I participated in a one-week program at the
Institute called 'Revitalize Your Spirit'. That
week was filled with exercises, lectures, and dialogues
- all of which focused on love, acceptance, and
the pursuit of happiness. Since that time, I have
not had one panic attack. I am traveling again,
taking exercise classes, and am able to write with
more focus and ease, all because the Institute has
helped me to put my faith in love and find the peace
that comes from faith. These are God's principles,
and whether or not you believe in God, these principles
are at the heart of freedom. My gratitude to Barry
and Samahria Kaufman and The Option Institute Staff
is enormous."
— Lorraine W. Free Lance Writer, California
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