The Quantum Questions Blog

Before the 7^th Century in Western Europe Advent was not a cosy countdown to Christmas.  Its observance was closer to Lent with restraint, fasting, penitence and an inner preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus.  Advent then started on November 11^th and like Lent, it was 40 days.  It was a deliberate slowing of life in readiness for something sacred to arrive.

This 40-day penitence is still the case in Eastern Orthodox Christianity, where the preparation for Christ’s coming is abstinence, almsgiving and fasting which gradually increases the closer it gets to Christmas day.

I am actually writing this on December 14^th, Gaudete, the third Sunday of Advent which was traditionally the one day when the strictness softened and joy was allowed to surface in the middle of restraint. Churches still sometimes mark this by lighting a pink candle, a sign that light is near, even if the waiting is not yet complete.

This was very much about preparation, clearing the space for Chr...

Managing Panic attacks

The word panic means an uncontrollable fear or anxiety that can lead to us acting impulsively or irrationally.   So, whether we have experienced panic attacks or not, just the thought of a panic attack begins a process of contraction inside of us, our defences begin.   Can you feel that as you begin reading this?

But I want to share with you some tips for dealing with panic attacks, as well as sharing a breath you can use if you are ever in that situation.

What is a panic attack?

A panic attack is a feeling of sudden and intense anxiety.

Panic attacks can also have physical symptoms, including:

• shaking
• feeling disorientated
• nausea
• rapid, irregular heartbeats
• dry mouth
• breathlessness
• sweating
• dizziness 

The symptoms of a panic attack are not physically dangerous but can be very frightening.

They can make you feel as though you're having a heart attack, or that you're going to collapse or even die.

Most panic attacks last somewhere from 5 minute...