LIGHTNING PROCESS for ME, CFS, PVFS, GLANDULAR FEVER and FIBROMYALGIA
These conditions are grouped together because they all respond in the same way with the Lightning Process.
ME is a very real, neurological condition. ME is definitely NOT 'all in the mind'. However it is possible to use the process to re-balance body chemicals, build new neural pathways, and eliminate symptoms rapidly. The training teaches how to influence the important/key body systems; hormonal, musculoskeletal, digestive and immune systems. The immune system and digestive system (of particular relevance to ME/CFS) are negatively affected by dis-regulation of the stress hormones, adrenaline, cortisol, nor-adrenaline.
THE PHYSIOLOGICAL CATCH 22
There are many elements that make up the Lightning Process, but one of the most important is called the "Physiological Catch 22". This is derived from Phil Parker's identification of the following downward spiral in ME sufferers. Recent research by Dr Bruun Wyller has concurred with the physiological findings suggested by the model:
1. They fall ill due to an initial 'bug' or some external factor that precipitates their ME, CFS or Fibromyalgia. This onset can be variable from one individual to another - it can include responses to operations, vaccines, extreme temperatures, injuries, and even emotional stress. This onset "event", whatever it's cause, results in creating an extreme physiological stress on their immune system.
2. They feel very unwell. The symptoms were either very strong or lasted so long that they begin to wonder if they'd ever get better. They consult GP's and specialists in a number of fields, but nobody seems to have any answers, or provides much useful help, and the illness continues. Maybe a diagnosis is given of ME/CFS/PVS or Fibromyalgia. This then suggests little hope of a rapid recovery and the possibility of years of ill health has to be considered.
3. The ongoing physical response to the original "event" combined now with these additional emotional concerns, understandably, creates an even greater and sustained physical stress/arousal response. This in turn further stimulates the Sympathetic Nervous System and the adrenaline, nor adrenaline and cortisol axis. A sustained arousal of this system has been long known to have a detrimental effect on many other body systems, but of special importance in ME is the effect of this on the immune system. This then creates a positive feedback loop, taking the ME client back to step 2.
The Process teaches how to break the negative spiral and replace it with a healing spiral
Severely affected ME patients:
Individual training. Heather has worked successfully with many severely affected, bed-bound people with ME. She has personal experience of being bed-bound for 16 years with the condition and has a deep understanding of the situation. It may be difficult to imagine how it is possible for someone with very severe symptoms, to be able to walk, and do and enjoy things that were previously impossible or intolerable, usually in just one day. But this is what normally happens with this process. The first step is understanding the cause of the symptoms, and then having the tool to use, to reduce and stop symptoms. The proof is then there, that it works. This builds confidence, and continued practice using the process, builds the new neural pathways until they then become established. Time is naturally necessary to re-build muscle and stamina.