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Workshops Address Controlling Anxiety, Panic Without Medication

STERLING HEIGHTS (WWJ) - Chest pain, shortness of breath, trembling, a racing heartbeat, a choking sensation, fearful thoughts....  Those who've experienced these and similar symptoms know the overwhelming anxiety and even panic attacks they can signal.

Medications often are prescribed for handling these very real symptoms, but drugs can produce undesirable side effects as well. Fortunately there are proven, drug-free strategies that enable those suffering from anxiety and panic attacks to control their symptoms and live normal lives.

From Friday, May 20 through Sunday, May 22, the Wellness Training Institute (WTI) and cardiologist Dr. Michael Dangovian present "When Stress Turns to Panic: Controlling Your Symptoms Without Drugs."

The series of workshops includes lectures, body scans and hands-on instruction of stress-reduction practices such as meditation, mindful breathing techniques and yoga, led by Dr. Dangovian and WTI professional staff in a safe and friendly environment.

"We'll show you practices that work to reduce your symptoms," Dr. Dangovian said in a statement. "You may walk in with anxiety, but you will leave with the tools and resources for addressing it."

The workshop schedule is:

  • Friday, May 20, 6:30-8 pm:
    "Setting the Stage for Healing: Foundations of Stress Reduction"
    with Dr. Dangovian
  • Saturday, May 21, 9:30-11:30 am:
    "Balancing Mind and Body: Stress Reduction and Hatha Yoga"
    with Dr. Dangovian and WTI Yoga Director Janice Bahura
  • Saturday, May 21, 12:30-2:30 pm:
    "Meditation for Stress Reduction: It's Easier Than You Think"
    with Dr. Dangovian and WTI Meditation Instructor Leilani Ware, R.N.
  • Sunday, May 22, 9:30-11:30 am:
    "Bringing It All Together: A New Beginning for a Better Life"
    with Dr. Dangovian and the WTI staff

All workshops take place at the Wellness Training Institute located at 39242 Dequindre, Suite 103 in Sterling Heights.

The cost is $50 per session or $135 for the entire weekend. Seating is limited; advance reservations are requested at 586-795-3600.

Dangovian, who founded the Wellness Training Institute and oversees the adjacent Healthy Heart & Vascular Center, is also medical director of cardiac rehabilitation at William Beaumont Hospital-Troy.

He sees firsthand the emotional and physical damage that stress can cause including heart disease, backaches, headaches and more and is committed to helping patients to reframe their thoughts, control their symptoms and live better, healthier lives.

The Wellness Training Institute is a community resource center dedicated to promoting health and wellness through lifestyle. Its variety of services and programs are designed to work in tandem with the body's natural ability to heal itself.

Through lectures, food presentations, yoga classes, massage, meditation, stress reduction workshops and other offerings, WTI staff help clients to achieve their personal wellness goals, whether they are rebounding from medical conditions or simply committed to preventing them.

For information, visit healthyheartandvascular.com or call 586-795-3600.

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