Clients’ words
of love

Using breathing techniques I have learned in the class has been extremely helpful in my daily use. Recently I had to have a MRI done and the machine broke down in the middle of my test, and my normal reaction was panic. I quickly remembered that these are the times that I could use the breathing techniques that I had been taught by Nina. I calmly began breathing in through the nose holding the breath and slowly releasing the breath from my mouth, I repeated this over and over until I realized I was concentrating on my refreshed breathing and not the stress that I was finding myself calm and relax.

I have had other very stressful events including heart issues and subsequent other health issues with asthma (most likely due to the wearing of masks) and her techniques have helped tremendously. It is not just these techniques or the knowledge that is so important as Ms.London, really knows how to affect the desire to try new things and new ways to manage stress. I have found her helpfulness and consistent support to be very helpful and a very kind way to add incredible encouragement to these very difficult times. 

She has been instrumental in encouraging all the participants to look towards a brighter future and to implement simple strategies to make our difficult days a bit lighter and slightly easier ones through the sharing and learning to breathe laugh through them. Thank you for having her be a part of PALS! I believe that her continued interaction though, will grow a group of some very strong survivors! I was just thinking, to share some great aspects of having been a part of Nina London’s courses that she provides on a Saturday morning through PALS. When I look back at the mental and physical state that I was in prior to meeting Ms. London, I realize what great strides I have made mentally and physically. 

One of my real trials, coming into and learning these therapy styles, was my extreme fear of meeting with strangers and new people. I remember taking the huge ‘chance’ to just get in my vehicle and make my way down to the beach. Ms. London was so inviting, Calm and encouraging. The following week I was still timid about meeting with the group, but realized this was a very ‘safe place’, even though my social anxiety wanted to ‘scream’ otherwise. Upon review of the last three to four months, I realize what great strides have been made. I can truly take a deep breath, a learned practice, that provides the ability to think more clearly, and to feel calmer and more secure within myself. The strange life tests that have come my way, including medical tests and dental procedures and a new job, have tested all that I have learned through Ms. London, about controlling stress and negative thoughts…. and pushing through these trials. Learning to control the body and mind. 

Looking back at the last 3 to 4 months, I realize how far I have come with overcoming that social anxiety. Now, I look forward to meeting with the small group. I am sure that I personally would not be suited to a large group of people, and this experience has given me a huge part of my life back. I can now breathe through anxiety, get in the car alone, go do grocery shopping, maybe even pop into a store and have a quick look around. Prior to meeting with Ms. London, I do not believe that this would have been possible. Growth is an amazing thing over the age of 50. This small group has helped this woman in particular, grow exponentially and I am very glad to have been able to be a part of this growing experience. 

I have to thank PALS for creating this experience and for Ms. London’s abilities to be willing to teach new techniques for those, like me, to be able to continue to engage in a happy and helpful and ‘healthful‘ manner in society.”