CRIPPLED by debilitating agoraphobia - fear of open or public spaces - Pauline McKinnon decided to tackle it by showing others that they don't have to suffer in silence.
She explains how it is possible to overcome panic, anxiety and fear. McKinnon has now been free from the clutches of agoraphobia for about 30 years.
- In Stillness Conquer Fear - Overcoming Anxiety, Panic and Fear, by Pauline McKinnon. John Garratt Publishing, rrp $34.95
She tells her own story in the book and about how she first encountered fear, grief and stress.
This included when her father and father-in-law passed away.
Her story then talks about fear and people, living with fear, friendship and negative emotions.
The second part of the book focuses on the practice of stillness meditation, which she had great success with.
By doing this, the book teaches us how to capture stillness, conquer fear and in particular, agoraphobia.
McKinnon illustrates the effects that medication, drugs, diet, exercise and hormones can have on the condition.
She points out the importance of rest, communication, attitude, posture, perseverance, setting goals and letting go.
The book also features success stories of those who have been able to put these methods to good use.
This is the second edition of the book, with the first being released 25 years ago.
McKinnon is a Melbourne meditation consultant and psychotherapist. She used the method of stillness meditation therapy to help clients.
