EMOTIONAL HEALING

Following an appearance that Caron and I made together on GMTV, I clearly remember her asking if she could see me, as she felt that there could be something seriously wrong with her. I had a look into her eyes, using iridology, and saw indeed that there was something present of a serious nature. I was worried that she might have cancer, and I begged her to consult her doctor.

Caron was a most intelligent and resolute lady who immediately took action. She was referred to a well-known oncologist who, after carrying out some tests, confirmed that she had breast cancer. I saw her after the oncologist’s diagnosis, as it was imperative to act quickly in an attempt to control the situation. We had a long chat and agreed how important it was that she complied completely with the oncologist’s advice, but I also suggested strongly that she took immediate action regarding her diet and prescribed some supplements and herbal remedies. Luckily, Caron followed this to the letter. I recommended a lot of remedies that I am sure helped to lengthen her life by a further seven years.

After she had been ill for around three months, she returned home one day feeling particularly poorly. I went to her mother’s home and stayed with her until the early hours of the morning. We had a long discussion about how people cope emotionally when they are struck by a life-threatening disease, and she asked me what could be done to help ease the worries that she and so many other women faced while in this situation. I was amazed at Caron’s positivity and moved by her determination to use her own experience to help fellow sufferers. We decided that a series of television programmes on this subject would be extremely beneficial to the public and mentally started to prepare this.

On another occasion, I travelled to her home at a time when things were looking bleak. We sat in her room with the sun streaming in the window, and I glanced at her lovely children. As we talked, some tears fell, and we thought about life and how wonderful it really is. But once again we agreed that it all depends on what one makes of it, particularly when one is faced with such serious problems. Caron realised that, no matter which direction she decided to follow in her cancer treatment, a positive attitude would help with whatever healing methods were made available to her. Both of us agreed that where there was a will there was a way, and in this way we continued to optimistically tackle the difficulties that afflicted Caron’s health.

As she explained so well during that visit, the body does not really want to be ill, but sometimes there are too many circumstances that affect people’s health, and our system cannot cope. At the end of the day, we all have a responsibility to decide what to do about it. Caron bravely fought an enormous battle and looked positively at what could be done. Every time a new problem occurred, she tackled it with great courage.

Finally, however, Caron could fight no more and on Tuesday, 13 April 2004, she died at her mother’s home in Kent, surrounded by her family. In a statement by her family, they said that she had conducted her battle against cancer ‘with enormous courage, tenacity and optimism’. Sir Cliff Richard, a family friend, said, ‘Caron was gifted, talented, wonderful with people and, to crown it all, she was beautiful and courageous to the end.’ I could not agree more.

The courage exhibited by this remarkable young woman during our many visits together has encouraged me greatly over the years. I often think of the times when we worked together, and the programmes that we planned together have been the inspiration for this book.

I recently attended a lecture given by a psychiatrist on this subject, and he went as far as to say that 95 per cent of stress results from our modern lifestyles. At work, as companies downsize and corporate competition intensifies, everyone is putting in longer hours, but job security is a constant worry, and the threat of unemployment haunts many people. Technology may have eliminated many tedious, mind-numbing tasks, but it has also led to increased pressure for an instant response, and the cumulative effect is that people are arriving home from the office overstressed and irritable after a long day. As more and more women now work full time, people have increasing concerns about balancing their work and home life, and even today’s children lead high-pressured lives. All of this can have a detrimental effect on family relationships, leading to unhappiness, separation and even divorce.

To be honest, life without stress can be very boring, and a certain amount of positive stress can be beneficial. But when the situation becomes so bad that it affects us in every way possible, then we have to address it by trying to find out what aspect of our life is detrimentally affecting our health.

The same physical reaction occurs in what is sometimes called a chronic stress response. In this instance, stress is a psychological and physical response to the demands of daily life that exceed a person’s ability to cope successfully. Whether we are stuck in traffic, about to give a speech in front of a group, sitting in the doctor’s waiting room or worrying about whether we are about to lose our jobs, the human stress response happens automatically. The difference between the two is that the body’s response in an emergency starts and resolves itself quickly. The response to the threat of losing one’s job might not.

In an emergency situation, the adrenal glands (located above the kidneys) secrete the hormone cortisol until the emergency passes. Then the body returns to its normal function. However, chronic stress is more complex and can last longer. When our body is subjected to high levels of cortisol for an extended time, our health can be damaged. Studies have shown that increased cortisol production caused by long-term chronic stress may damage the entire nervous system and suppress the immune system.

There is ample evidence that living a highly stressful lifestyle damages the heart, raises blood pressure and can contribute to digestive problems. Not surprisingly, stress can also be damaging to the brain, even leading to premature brain cell ageing. Stress can also lead to a breakdown of tissue, influencing bones, muscles and nerves, and can cause much toxicity in the body.

Tension caused by stress can also cause problems, though it is interesting to note initially that tension is actually a natural state of being. It is a most important factor in physical life and is responsible for controlling the harmonious distribution of energy through the body. Call it life, health or what you will, it is the factor that prevents molecules from flying into space. However, tension as we know it is muscular in nature, and when it is persistently present it can actually precipitate soluble calcium from the bloodstream into the joints. The results of this can include rheumatism, lumbago and other similar afflictions.

When we consider the three bodies of man – namely the physical, mental and emotional – it quickly becomes obvious how detrimental stress can be as we get trapped in a vicious circle. There can be many triggers for emotional stress, including work resentment, jealousy, emotional upset, unhappy marriages, anxieties, worries, depression, irritability, moodiness, lack of enjoyment in life, loneliness – a lot of the problems that I have written about in this book. Physically, this can result in symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, trembling, cramps, muscle tensions, high blood pressure, restlessness, headaches, insomnia, lack of energy, dry mouth, butterflies in the stomach and ringing in the ears. It can also lead to more serious problems like compulsive behaviour, alcohol abuse, drug use, smoking, addictions, aggressiveness, overworking, short-temperedness and impatience . . . the list goes on and on. Mentally, we very often see that stress can lead to memory problems, being critical, getting things out of proportion, distorted ideas and attitude problems, and this can affect our health with migraines, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers, heart attacks, angina, asthma, skin problems, lowering of the immune system, stomach disorders and peptic, duodenal or gastric ulcers.

Thus we see that not only does stress affect the body mechanically, but also mentally and emotionally, and this is when the situation becomes a catch-22, with stress begetting stress. The result is the enormous increase that we have seen in cases of cancer, degenerative diseases, ME, osteoporosis, post-viral syndrome and so on.

During my career I have witnessed the effects that long-term stress can have on people and nowhere has this been more obvious than in Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic. I have carried out a lot of work in Belfast and admire the Irish people immensely. But during the years that I have worked there, it has been impossible to ignore the reality that rates of degenerative disease and other illnesses have increased, and I believe that this is due to the great stress that the people there have endured throughout the Troubles. I have seen a similar situation in Dublin, where the swift growth of the economy may have brought a lot of wealth but has also put people under negative stress as they struggle to cope with these rapid developments. It is 40 years since I first lectured in the Republic of Ireland at Trinity College. When I visit the area today, I see the consequences of the terrific problems that have arisen there.

Stress-related problems range from the mild to the severe and, in some cases, the fuse can blow and psychosis and neurosis can then become a possibility. For some people, anxiety and stress are persistent and overwhelming, and can interfere with daily life. A disorder called generalised anxiety disorder can cause its sufferers to worry constantly, always expect the worst to happen and feel tense all of the time. Sufferers cannot just ‘snap out of it’ because this disorder is caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain.

The good news is that alterations in the central nervous system and the immune system can be reversed when stress is removed. The key is to learn how to deal with daily stress to allow the body to return to its normal state. We have to look not only at our physical state but also our mental and emotional states, and then find the right balance.

Anti-anxiety medications include the benzodiazepines. These can relieve symptoms within a short time. These medications belong to the group of medicines called central nervous system (CNS) depressants (medicines that slow down the nervous system).

Although such antidepressant medication can help, as described, to regulate the brain’s neurotransmitters and help relieve the symptoms of depression and stress, these medications can also cause a number of side effects, such as nausea, sedation, weight gain and sexual problems (decreased libido, delayed orgasm or erectile dysfunction). Other side effects include drowsiness, loss of coordination, fatigue and mental confusion. These effects make it dangerous for people taking benzodiazepines to drive or operate some machinery. In addition, many anti-anxiety medications may be habit-forming, causing mental or physical dependence, especially when taken for a long time or in high doses. Benzodiazepines can also cause seizures if abruptly discontinued.

Although it is not fully understood how L-theanine works, scientists believe that it supports the balance of various neurotransmitters in the brain. In a laboratory study, researchers found that it is able to cross the blood-brain barrier to support the activity of certain neurotransmitters. In a recent test, the brain activity of 50 volunteers was measured after the oral administration of 50 to 200mg of L-theanine. It promoted the generation of alpha brainwaves, considered to be an index of relaxation, in the volunteers. This study concluded that one way in which L-theanine promotes relaxation in humans is by increasing alpha brainwaves.

L-theanine has also been shown to help the regulation of blood pressure. The same neurotransmitters that help us relax also regulate blood pressure in our bodies, and the absorption of L-theanine results in slightly lowered blood pressure. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that it affects both the nervous system and the cardiovascular system. Thus, its calming effect on our mental state is augmented by lowering blood pressure as well. However, in these tests the blood pressure was never lowered to abnormally low levels.

Using an L-theanine supplement is a safe alternative because it will relieve anxiety and promote relaxation without causing the daytime sedation and grogginess that is associated with prescription medications on the market today. Recommendations for L-Theanine are one UltraCaps two or three times daily. If additional support is desired, this can be increased to two UltraCaps three times daily. If pregnant, breast-feeding or taking prescription drugs, you should consult your health practitioner prior to taking this supplement.

The nervous system controls and integrates all the activities of the body – not only on a physical level but also psychologically. The system may become debilitated and fatigued through factors such as stress, shock and faulty nutrition. In these circumstances, a nerve tonic plays a useful role, strengthening, feeding and revitalising the system.

I always find Avena sativa from Alfred Vogel to be one of the best tonics for stress. Avena sativa is a traditional herbal nerve tonic made from fresh oat seeds. It is similar to having porridge in the morning, which helps greatly to reduce stress, but is so much simpler to take and will be of tremendous benefit in any stressful situation. It is known to have a nutritive and restorative action on the nervous system and also has mild sedative properties.

Avena sativa contains high amounts of vitamin B, minerals and other nutrients necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system. These constituents probably account for its ‘restorative’ effects in the treatment of anxiety, debility and exhaustion. It also contains indole alkaloids, the most active of which is known as gramine. These have been shown to relax smooth muscle and exert a sedative action on the nervous system. It is also of benefit to those suffering from insomnia. Research carried out by two Edinburgh physicians using electroencephalogram (EEG) to assess sleep quality has shown that those using Avena sativa had a quieter sleep than those in the control group.

As Avena sativa is such a mild sedative, it may even be used to calm children who are upset and has been used successfully for the clinical treatment of hyperactivity in children – though this is not an alternative to implementing necessary dietary changes. It has also been used to help with symptoms of withdrawal when treating addiction. Ayurvedic physicians also used oats to help with opium withdrawal.

Adults should take 20 drops, 2 or 3 times a day, before meals, and children should be given 1 drop per year of age (2–12 years) in a little water, 2 or 3 times a day. It can be administered long term and has no known restrictions. However, it is not recommended for pregnant and nursing women unless directed by a healthcare professional.

When stress results in a lack of energy, then Ginsavena can be of great help. Ginsavena is a combination of energising and calming herbs used to strengthen and fortify the nerves. It contains both energising Eleutherococcus senticosus (Siberian ginseng) and Avena sativa.

It is very common nowadays to see conditions of exhaustion and debility alongside anxiety and nervous tension. Treating just one side of this problem is not sufficient. Increasing energy without calming the central nervous system may well make matters worse. The energy produced is nervous energy that further drains the adrenal glands.

Eleutherococcus supports the metabolic processes of the body and has a revitalising effect, helping to increase energy levels that may have been depleted due to stress. It is also known as the ‘female’ ginseng and is often recommended to women going through the menopause, as it has a balancing effect on female hormones. The Avena sativa content, as described above, has a calming effect, so Ginsavena’s combination of herbs thus deals with both the restlessness and listlessness that can result from situations such as bereavement, divorce and moving house.

This remedy is only recommended for adults and should be taken at the dose of 20 drops, twice a day, in a little water. It has no restrictions for long-term use. However, if it is needed for longer than two months, a two-week break is recommended. Those who suffer from diabetes, schizophrenia, heart disease or high blood pressure should consult a healthcare professional before using Ginsavena, as should those taking the Pill or HRT. Products containing Eleutherococcus should not be taken with caffeine. Take it at a different time of day to vitamin B and C supplements, as it aids their secretion. It is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women unless directed by a healthcare professional.

With any stress condition, it is crucial that one gets plenty of restful sleep, as well as carrying out relaxation exercises. But due to the hectic pace of life today, many people have problems with insomnia, nervous tension and disturbed sleep patterns. There are several herbal remedies that can be used to help resolve these problems, and they do not have the negative side effects associated with many modern pharmaceutical drugs.

Valerian-Hops Complex combines the sedative properties of Valeriana officinalis (Valerian) and Humulus lupulus (Hops). Valerian grows widely throughout Europe and the root of this plant has been used in herbal remedies for many centuries. Hops are climbing plants that can be found in swamps and hedges. Being an important ingredient in beer, they are now extensively cultivated for commercial purposes.

These ingredients are beneficial as a sedative and relaxant. Valerian acts as a herbal tranquilliser and is widely recommended for those with nervous excitement and disturbed sleep patterns. The relaxing properties are due to the valepotriates and volatile oils present (especially valerenal and valerenic acid). Valerenic acid inhibits the breakdown of the neurotransmitter gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA), increasing its concentration. This then leads to a decrease in central nervous system activity.

Hops contain humulones and lupulones, which are metabolised in the body to form a compound known as 2-methyl-3-buten-2-ol, which exerts a sedative effect on the central nervous system, making them a useful treatment for restlessness, over-excitability, anxiety, tension and sleep problems. They are also an antispasmodic bitter, enhancing digestion and easing intestinal tension.

Adults should take between 20 and 30 drops in a little water, half an hour before retiring. Children should take 1 drop per year of age (2–12 years) in a little water or juice half an hour before bedtime. This product can safely be used to treat hyperactivity (put drops in fruit juice if needed). There are no restrictions on long-term use. This preparation should not be used to replace prescribed tranquillisers without consulting a healthcare professional. It may, however, be used as an adjunct to such treatment. It may be used for both acute and chronic disorders. It is not recommended for pregnant and nursing women unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Such remedies are of tremendous help. However, I also find that some amino acids, vitamins, minerals and trace elements give us the necessary relaxation which is important.

In situations where stress leads to violence, then the homoeopathic remedy Staphysagria will be beneficial.