I marvel at resiliency. The ability of the soul to heal. Old wounds and open emotional fissures, slowly over time, healing. The powerful effect of kind words. Gentle and loving human touch. I have met some truly remarkable people who have have lived through truly tragic events. I am blessed that these people feel good about sharing their struggles with me.

I tell my stories through my music, writings and art.

Growing up, I spent a great amount of time feeling as though I were having an out of body experience. This feeling gave me the sensation of free floating in the ether. Family members complained that I was a dreamer. That I wasn't paying attention. I was. I caught everything. But I processed the incoming information in ways that were beneficial to my being. This was my creative coping skill and subsequently my greatest teacher.

The feeling of being outside of myself can be meditative. It's the same feeling I get when I'm creating art or writing a song. For me, the act of creating is spiritual in nature. At times, it does feel like tapping into Source.

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There was a time when I wasn't coping with my life very well. 

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I started having panic attacks in public places.

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I became agoraphobic.

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I struggled with depression.

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I also dealt with truly bizarre sleep disturbances.

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This went on for many years.

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I write this because I know there are plenty of people who struggle.

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Famous people who have struggled with panic attacks:

 Drew Barrymore. Kim Basinger. Donny Osmond. Earl Campbell. Ricky Williams. Carly Simon.

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Famous people who have dealt with issues of agoraphobia:

 Paula Deen, Kim Basinger, Philip K. Dick, Woody Allen, Barbra Streisand.

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A famous person who has narcolepsy/sleep paralysis:

 Sheryl Crow.

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I'm not a famous person.

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But I found healthy ways to cope.

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 Over a course of many years, I have learned to cope and I am relatively symptom-free. Through meditation, journaling, medicinal therapy, herbs, breathing exercises, an understanding and loving support system, behavior modification and practice. I occasionally have setbacks. But I have coping skills and loving support to help get me through any rough spots.

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I truly believe that anyone can overcome their difficulties and lead a gentle and productive life. A life defined by self and not constrained by what society, friends and family think is best. 

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I have written about my journey. I will publish my writings soon.

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I am listing a few websites that may be helpful.

www.agoraphobia.net

www.anxieties.com

http://watarts.uwaterloo.ca/~acheyne/s_p.html

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Nourish your spirit.

 Keep your flame kindled.

Regardless of your circumstances.

Shine.

Dance.

Breathe.

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