Thank you for the update.

Attitude is so important with PN. Fear, anxiety, anger, all stimulate the release of cortisol, and this when done in excess, goes to the brain and changes things there. The hippocampus is a typical target, but other changes in the brain are being discovered too.

The last seminar I just attended, had some information about
cortisol which I'll pass on here. When we have a "flight or fight" reaction to stress, (a big reaction that is), the cortisol is released very quickly... but then you know what... it hangs around for over 8 hours doing things we really don't need.

So while "flight or fight" evolved for us to have a burst of energy to run away or deal with danger, constant stress, or constant release of these hormones, leads to problems.

I am beginning to believe that the l-theanine that was recommended last summer in Dr. Blaylock's newsletter, to help PN is actually working for me this way. It is blocking anxiety and hence extra cortisol for me. I take 300mg at bedtime, still.

I started this last August. I am using Doctor's Best now after a disappointment with Swanson's brand. I started with Doctor's Best, but when I returned home from vacation I ordered Swanson's to try... it was not the same .... So I went back to Doctor's Best. It really works for me.
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/post786294-1.html

I am glad for you RideOn, that you are managing your days well. I've had anxiety much of my life, due to a painful childhood, and it has been difficult for me. I do relaxation exercises, similar to autohypnosis and that has always helped with my pain issues, over the years. I learned it long ago.

But the theanine is also a big help.
Here is another website with details:
http://web-us.com/l-theanine_anxiety_reducer.htm

Keep up the good work and keep us here in the loop.