I received a personal reply after writing the short article on using breath to overcome anxiety, panic attacks, high blood pressure, and elevated heart rate. A friend reminded me of the power of a hug to bring healing and peace to someone suffering emotional pain. She shared with me that she often asks her own son for a hug when she feels particularly depressed, and finds comfort in his little arms.

We all have to deal with emotional pain, some more than others. And we each must find our own way. What works for one, doesn't always work for another - but I can't imagine anyone not benifiting from the power of a hug.

I have had to face new anxiety these past couple of weeks, which caused me to be afraid to even go to church - the one place there are many people who love me. I was afraid they would smile at me, and ask me an innocent trigger question.... "How are you?"............ Just now, given a new development in my life, I could not bear to hear that simple question. just now, for someone to ask me that... well... I fall to pieces.... but I desperately needed the support of my church family. I emailed a handful of them, explaining the situation, and that the innocent question could trigger a full blown panic attack because I am not ok emotionally, and cannot bear to answer that question........

I needed to go to church, and have the support of those that care for me, but I needed to feel safe............. so this past sunday I went to church, after sending out the email...... and as I walked upstairs to the main entrance, there were two men waiting... one had received the email, the other hadn't..... the one that hadn't received the email approached me first, reaching out his hand, smiling... and he said..........."Hi! How are you? And where are the little ones?"............... oh God... I couldn't breath... I tried to think on his second question but I was loosing it fast. The other gentleman, he'd gotten the email, and he recognized immediately I needed help. He ran to me, put his arms around me, and just said "I read the email."................ a hug... yes, a very healing thing in times of distress.

May all who read this be blessed now and always.

Nameste

Gail Ann

P.S. This file was from a few years back - I'm ok now, promise..... but leaving it here as it is a reminder of the power of a hug.