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Showing posts with label VIDEO. Show all posts
Showing posts with label VIDEO. Show all posts

Monday, May 12, 2014

[Video] Herpes details

I’m on the pursuit to eliminate the lie that herpes is one thing to embarrassed with. I’m dedicated to helping those who have herpes understand that their lives could be just like normal and awesome as they’ve ever wanted. Rather than attempting to change culture, all we must do is wake people up — individually — from illusions and false ideas around what it really way to have herpes to begin with. And one way to complete that's through education.


A realistic look at herpes isn't what many people think. So we’ve prepared this short video like a fundamental summary of some important herpes details and perspectives to create the record straight.

“All we must do is wake people up — individually — from illusions and false ideas around what it really way to have herpes to begin with. And one way to complete that's through education.”

Prior to getting began, should you or someone you love is suffering due to herpes. Come go to the Herpes Chance forums to obtain the guidance and support you need to claim the awesome existence that you simply deserve.


Subscribe to the e-newsletter. Download our free e-book and giveaways to begin your healing journey at this time.


So what is the real thing with herpes?


Anybody who's if perhaps you are is vulnerable to getting herpes. Period. It arrives with the territory. As beautiful as sex could be, it is also dangerous. It’s vital that you weigh these two things together as reality.


It’s a myth that just sexually promiscuous people get herpes: It’s the same chance virus. You will get herpes whether you’ve only slept with 1 person or 1000.


But herpes is certainly not to become paranoid about. Yes, the periodic herpes outbreak could be annoying, however, it’s an entirely workable, simple skin ailment.


Look, nobody *wants* to obtain herpes — it isn't certainly one of individuals “designer STDs” that everyone’s hurrying to gather — but when you need to do have it, it does not have to be  the finish around the globe — or perhaps large deal. It’s exactly the same virus that triggers fever blisters as well as in exactly the same group of infections that create chicken pox, shingles and mono.


So let’s really put this complete factor into perspective.


For those who have herpes …

Realize that you aren't alone! 16% of People in america age range 14-49 have herpes (that’s a minimum of 25 million people!) which number keeps growing by 2,000 new diagnoses daily.80% of People in america carry herpes that triggers fever blisters — herpes is simply a different strain of the identical virusIf everybody that has herpes in america would hold hands, that chain of individuals would achieve round the circumference of the world this group can also be bigger compared to population of Australia!

Should you not have herpes …

Realize that 80% of people that have herpes have no idea they have it. So whomever you will be making love with, request them if they’ve become examined particularly for herpes!Why? Treatment centers don’t include herpes bloodstream tests within the full STD sections automatically, so herpes tests need to particularly be asked for.Many people mistake what's really a herpes outbreak for jock itch or perhaps an in-grown hair. Denial could be a strong motivation to remain in the dark.

You will find 2 various kinds of herpes.


The very first kind of herpes is HSV-1:

HSV-1 accounts for both dental herpes (also called “cold sores”) AND genital herpesHSV-1 favors the cooler, drier climate from the mouth, but can be found around the genitalsHSV-1 may also be passed towards the genital area via dental sex, therefore the same virus that triggers fever blisters around the mouth may also become herpes (Actually, 50% of recent herpes cases nowadays come from individuals with fever blisters carrying out dental sex!)

The 2nd kind of herpes is HSV-2:

HSV-2 favors the nice and cozy, moist climate from the genital area and barely is located on the mouth.

Do you know the perils of herpes transmission?

Herpes is spread via direct skin-to-skin contact (not toilet seats, towels, discussing drinks, nothing beats that!)You are able to pass herpes even when you will find no visible signs or signs and symptoms (known as asymptomatic viral losing)Women are about two times as prone to get herpes than males because vaginas convey more mucous membrane than male organs. The thinner your skin membrane, the greater connect to the virus needs to go into the body.

Top 2 most significant methods to minimize multiplication of herpes:

Knowing you've herpes, disclose for your partners. There's an e-book and giveaways in the Herpes Chance website that may help you with this.By no means have kind of sexual content throughout an energetic herpes outbreak!

Overall, there is a 10% possibility of women getting herpes, 4% for males.


3 methods to safeguard from passing herpes:


When no herpes outbreak exists,

Putting on a condom cuts the danger by 30-50%Taking medication (daily suppressive therapy) cuts the danger by another 50%Body awareness helps the herpes-positive partner to acknowledge whenever a herpes outbreak may be beginning to come to light (also called herpes prodrome signs and symptoms) keeping a wide open type of communication together with your partner helps prevent exposure that rather more.

Which means that if your condom and daily suppressive herpes medicine is used, that cuts the chance of transmission to women lower to two.5% and the chance of passing herpes to males lower to at least onePercent. (To place this into perspective, there's single.8% chance each year of dying inside a vehicle accident.)


Initially when i first got herpes, I figured nobody would ever want me again. I had been believing that anyone who discovered would judge me and try to escape. I figured my dating existence was over. I figured that my sex existence was over. I thought that my close associations could be tainted or destroyed. I had been believing that nobody want me which I had been condemned to being alone forever.


Things I learned with time is the fact that none of that’s really true. It’s all wrong. Things I learned is there isn’t any need to be ashamed, to reside in fear or reside in the shadows. There isn’t any need to give on the associations or even the dreams I usually had personally. There isn’t any need to overlook the future and family I usually wanted.


Arrived at the herpes chance and find out the way i — and 100s of others — have integrated herpes right into a perfectly normal, healthy and delightful existence.


Herpes isn't a need to give on your hopes or perhaps your dreams or even the future you’ve always wanted on your own. It’s really grounds to embrace your existence as well as your conditions more fully with more awareness and understanding than in the past.


In the herpes chance, we’ve worked with with communication, sex and relationship experts to offer you the various tools, the perspectives and also the guidance you have to keep herpes from stopping you moving forward.


There isn’t any reason that you should be alone within this. There’s you don't need to experience this one thing, or decipher it full-scale on your own. Join our community and fasten with individuals from around the globe who understand what you’re dealing with.


Here's your chance at this time, not just to obvious herpes being an obstacle, but to assert the existence that’s more free and authentic than whatever you decide and have thought possible … before herpes.


Subscribe to the e-newsletter and obtain your free e-book and giveaways. We’ll help you stay attached to the support and also the perspectives you have to integrate this like a perfectly component of the awesome existence.


herpes forum


View the original article here

Monday, February 17, 2014

[Video] Brenda (also known as “Whoopsidaysi”) discusses her transformation

Guest author from your community: WhoopsiDaysi

“And your day came once the risk to stay tight inside a bud was more painful compared to risk it required to blossom.” — Anais Nin

I'd be laying basically stated getting herpes was the very best factor to ever occur to me. Similar to I wouldn't say being divorced was the very best factor to ever occur to me — three occasions. (But that's another blog altogether.) That which was the very best factor to occur in my experience though was things i learned from individuals encounters. As painful because they both were to cope with, and around I figured “my existence is over” after each event, I recognized that hidden within individuals encounters were training waiting that i can learn. I learned we're the masters in our future as well as in our mind. We decide our opinion, the way we feel, what we should believe, and just how we will react in almost any given situation. The expertise of getting herpes isn't any different.

View the original article here

Monday, October 21, 2013

[Video] Doctor answers questions about genital herpes (HSV) and HPV

Dr. Peter Leone (who has appeared in the New York Times and NPR’s Talk of the Nation) stopped by our monthly herpes support group on April 8, 2013, in Raleigh, NC, to give herpes facts and update us on the latest herpes statistics. He gave so much clarity around all the horribly misunderstood herpes information out there!

Topics covered:

herpes forum


View the original article here

Thursday, October 17, 2013

[Video] Brenda (aka “Whoopsidaysi”) talks about her transformation

Guest author from our community: WhoopsiDaysi

“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” — Anais Nin

I would be lying if I said getting herpes was the best thing to ever happen to me. Much like I would not say being divorced was the best thing to ever happen to me — three times. (But that is another blog altogether.) What was the best thing to happen to me though was what I learned from those experiences. As painful as they both were to deal with, and as much as I thought “my life is over” after each event, I realized that hidden within those experiences were lessons waiting for me to learn. I learned we are the masters of our destiny and also of our mind. We choose what we think, how we feel, what we believe, and how we are going to react in any given situation. The experience of having herpes is no different.

“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” — Anais Nin

I remember getting the herpes diagnosis. It was on the heels of my son leaving home, which, to my surprise was a rather traumatic event for me. My reaction actually caught me off guard. As I was coming to terms with the ending of that part of my life, my marriage, my third and the one that I honestly thought was going to go the distance, dissolved before my eyes in a matter of two weeks. I was devastated and was at what I thought was my lowest point. I was to discover there was one point lower … At the end of November 2011 I noticed an irritation that just wouldn’t go away, no matter what I tried. I rationalized, bargained with God and prayed that it wasn’t what I feared it was. A herpes outbreak? You see, I had a partner 10 years previous who had herpes. My fears came to life on December 3, 2011 when I sat in the doctor’s office and I got the verdict: I have herpes. Welcome the bottom of the lowest point in my life. As I was considering my life of celibacy and rejection, I reached out via the internet. Low and behold, contrary to my belief, I was not the only “damned one” on this planet. There are many people with herpes. Thus began my unfolding and blossoming.

My journey had taken many twists and turns until one day I found myself sitting in a meeting room in Raleigh, North Carolina with a bunch of strangers who, after a few short days, would become part of my soul. When I first heard of the Herpes Opportunity, I was skeptical. I had no idea what it was about. I was in Canada on the other side of the country. Honestly, was I going to travel all the way to North Carolina for some herpes weekend? Turns out, yes — and I am so glad that I did. I got so much out of one short weekend. It is hard to describe what it is like but I’d love to share what I came away with …

The experience of the Herpes Opportunity weekend is something that is unique to each participant. It’s like listening to a song. It all depends on where you are in your life and the experiences you have had. The song may mean something different to you depending on what is going on in your life. The Herpes Opportunity weekend is like that. It all depends on where are you in your journey of healing, which makes it such a unique experience for each participant. This is not your typical workshop where you sit and listen to lectures. The weekend starts by you getting to know each other and developing a sense of trust and safety … and then the adventure begins.

I had so many takeaways from the weekend. For me, the biggest take away was learning to become more loving and accepting of myself and realizing that we all share so many of the same feelings, fears, insecurities, and false beliefs. When one person healed, we all healed. There is something about the group dynamic that is so amazing. I also realized there is something beautiful in just being with another person in their grief and pain. And when I realized how beautiful that was for someone else, I was able to extend that to myself. I have learned to sit with my emotions, whatever they are, and accept them as they are in that moment without judgment. By honoring my feelings, I can let them be expressed, heard and then pass.

After the weekend, I was so open to pushing my comfort zone to see what was possible. My heart was open and I was eager to try new experiences and to stretch myself to see what I was really capable of. Upon my return, I took a Nidra class, a tai chi class, a few kundalini yoga classes, attended a drumming circle and a chakra clearing meditation class. I have become more comfortable being uncomfortable and trying to see where my limits really are. I am now challenging my beliefs about “what is possible for me.” I am far more open in telling people I have herpes as well. I used to be afraid to have people know for fear they would judge me and reject me. Now I am doing YouTube interviews! If you would have asked me a year ago if I would do that sort of thing, it would be a definite “Are you insane?” Even now, it certainly pushes my comfort zone, but now I am open to it. I see my discomfort as more of a challenge than a limitation.

This herpes thing can be the worst thing to ever happen or it can be a blessing. The only person who can determine that for you is you. You can choose to be a victim or a victor. You can choose to see herpes as an opportunity or a limitation. It’s all in how you choose to look at it. If you are curious to see if maybe there is a way to loosen the hold that shame has on you around herpes, I would encourage you to push your comfort zone just a bit and come out to the Herpes Opportunity weekend. You can feel the fear and do it anyway, just like every single person who attended the last weekend in January did. Each of us was uncomfortable and unsure of what we were getting into, but we came anyway. And in our discomfort, we found healing, love and acceptance. Listen to that small, still voice within you. If this is an experience that both scares you and excites you all the same, then take that leap and see what is possible. You will be so glad you did.

“It’s impossible,” said pride
“It’s risky,” said experience
“It’s pointless,” said reason
“Give it a try,” whispered the heart
— Author unknown

herpes forum


View the original article here

Monday, October 14, 2013

[Video] Growing through the yuck of having herpes

Guest author from our community: Ashley

It is easy to get sucked into the negative when you get a herpes diagnosis. I remember the day that I was diagnosed. I was at the health center at my university and I had the most horrific first herpes outbreak anyone could imagine. Two solid weeks of not being able to sit, lay down, use the bathroom, or shower without excruciating pain. Not to mention the accompanying nausea, fatigue, and general feelings of misery. The nurse gave me the diagnosis and I felt my heart hit the floor. Who would want me now since I have herpes? With shaking hands I dialed my then boyfriend’s cell phone number. “The rash I have? It’s herpes,” I said, cringing with every word. “I had a feeling that’s what it was,” he replied calmly. “Are you mad?” I asked. “No sweetie,” he said, “you’re still the same person you were an hour ago. It’s just herpes. It’s not life-threatening.”

“Healing is not a linear path. There are twists and turns, forks and loops. It took a lot of tears, many sleepless nights, and a lot of support to get me to where I am now.”I was shocked. I was expecting anger — even fury. I spread herpes to him unknowingly because I didn’t recognize the symptoms, and here he was reassuring me! Together we researched home remedies and information on herpes that was now a part of both of our lives. We supported each other through our first outbreak and subsequent herpes outbreaks, until we finally went our separate ways a few months later. It was wonderful to have someone who understood what I was going through. It was even more incredible to have a partner who cared about me and supported me through a period of pretty intense anger and self-loathing. I felt dirty. I felt unlovable. I felt unattractive. He helped me get through those feelings, at least temporarily.

It wasn’t until I attempted to get back into the dating scene that I realized that not everyone was so understanding. I was rejected countless times. It got to the point that I started disclosing on the first date just to get it over with. My reasoning was at least if (and when) he rejected me, at least we would have only wasted one date. All those feelings of inadequacy, self-loathing, and depression came flooding back. I became convinced that I was never going to find someone who would want to “deal with” my condition. I felt myself descending into what I have now termed, “the yuck.”

The yuck is a place of toxic feelings. It harbors the helpless victim mentality and feeds into feelings of anger, resentment, blame, and sorrow. It is easy to get trapped in the yuck. It’s like quicksand. One minute you’re doing okay and then as soon as you have a bad date, an outbreak, or even hear a herpes joke, you’re right back down in the pit of despair. I felt broken, worthless, and alone.

Gradually, I started to learn more about herpes. I learned about herpes transmission rates and ways to keep outbreaks under control. I learned that there were herpes dating sites and herpes support sites for people with herpes. I found a therapist and did some hard work with her, including letting go of my anger at the guy who raped me (which is how I ended up with herpes). I started to grow. I decided that I needed something to represent my new outlook on life. I’m a firm believer in body reclamation, and for me, that sometimes takes the form of tattoos.

The tattoo of the lotus flower on my right shoulder. The tattoo of the lotus flower on my right shoulder.

Halloween 2009, three months after my rape and one month after my herpes diagnosis, I decided to get a lotus tattoo on my right shoulder. The lotus flower grows in the mud in shallow water and does not bloom until it reaches the surface. While it’s growing, the flower petals are safe inside the blossom, which keeps them from getting stained by the mud. I always loved the symbolism of the lotus flower, but I didn’t realize how accurate the metaphor was for me until about two years later. I battled my anger, my resentment, and my self-consciousness many times over those two years. Healing is not a linear path. There are twists and turns, forks and loops. It took a lot of tears, many sleepless nights, and a lot of support to get me to where I am now.

Underneath the lotus is a Tibetan Buddhist mantra: “Om Mani Padme Hum.” This mantra is a devotion to Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. It serves as a daily reminder that I cannot know where someone else has been or what has led them to this point. It encourages me to show compassion to others as well as myself.

Thanks to Adrial and the Herpes Opportunity, I found the strength to “come out” about having herpes. I told my friends, family, and the internet. I have to say, I have never felt so free in my entire life. It feels wonderful to be able to speak openly about having herpes, instead of saying the word in hushed tones while constantly looking over my shoulder wondering who might be listening and judging. I look forward to talking about herpes during my weekly Skype call with Adrial. I get excited that other people will see our videos and hopefully crack a smile or giggle at our silliness. I feel genuine and authentic, which is a huge improvement over the way I felt when I was still “in the yuck.”

I encourage everyone to take time to reflect on where they are in the growth process. Are you still in the yuck? Don’t worry, there are others there too and you can help each other grow. Are you growing but not quite at the surface? Reach out and let people help you. And to those who have blossomed: Share your beauty with the world. Don’t be afraid of your roots. Remember them; because they are a testament to your strength and perseverance throughout this journey.

Ashley Manta is a feminist sexuality educator, certified consulting hypnotist, and sex-positive pleasure advocate. She has given presentations on topics including sexual violence awareness, positive body image, and sexual empowerment. She is available for a variety of  workshops which you can find on her website or you can follow her on Twitter @ashleymanta.

______________

Added by Adrial:

Our herpes community forum member DrSuz emailed me this after watching the video:
“Adoring the Skype party with you and Ashley. Pure positivity! Here is a favorite poem very pertinent to topic of this video. Enjoy!”

Sweet Darkness

When your eyes are tired
the world is tired also.

When your vision has gone
no part of the world can find you.

Time to go into the dark
where the night has eyes
to recognize its own.

There you can be sure
you are not beyond love.

The dark will be your womb
tonight.

The night will give you a horizon
further than you can see.

You must learn one thing:
the world was made to be free in.

Give up all the other worlds
except the one to which you belong.

Sometimes it takes darkness and the sweet
confinement of your aloneness
to learn

anything or anyone
that does not bring you alive

is too small for you.

— David Whyte
(House of Belonging)

herpes forum


View the original article here

Thursday, July 11, 2013

[Video] Growing through the yuck of having herpes

Guest author from our community: Ashley

It is easy to get sucked into the negative when you get a herpes diagnosis. I remember the day that I was diagnosed. I was at the health center at my university and I had the most horrific first herpes outbreak anyone could imagine. Two solid weeks of not being able to sit, lay down, use the bathroom, or shower without excruciating pain. Not to mention the accompanying nausea, fatigue, and general feelings of misery. The nurse gave me the diagnosis and I felt my heart hit the floor. Who would want me now since I have herpes? With shaking hands I dialed my then boyfriend’s cell phone number. “The rash I have? It’s herpes,” I said, cringing with every word. “I had a feeling that’s what it was,” he replied calmly. “Are you mad?” I asked. “No sweetie,” he said, “you’re still the same person you were an hour ago. It’s just herpes. It’s not life-threatening.”

“Healing is not a linear path. There are twists and turns, forks and loops. It took a lot of tears, many sleepless nights, and a lot of support to get me to where I am now.”I was shocked. I was expecting anger — even fury. I spread herpes to him unknowingly because I didn’t recognize the symptoms, and here he was reassuring me! Together we researched home remedies and information on herpes that was now a part of both of our lives. We supported each other through our first outbreak and subsequent herpes outbreaks, until we finally went our separate ways a few months later. It was wonderful to have someone who understood what I was going through. It was even more incredible to have a partner who cared about me and supported me through a period of pretty intense anger and self-loathing. I felt dirty. I felt unlovable. I felt unattractive. He helped me get through those feelings, at least temporarily.

It wasn’t until I attempted to get back into the dating scene that I realized that not everyone was so understanding. I was rejected countless times. It got to the point that I started disclosing on the first date just to get it over with. My reasoning was at least if (and when) he rejected me, at least we would have only wasted one date. All those feelings of inadequacy, self-loathing, and depression came flooding back. I became convinced that I was never going to find someone who would want to “deal with” my condition. I felt myself descending into what I have now termed, “the yuck.”

The yuck is a place of toxic feelings. It harbors the helpless victim mentality and feeds into feelings of anger, resentment, blame, and sorrow. It is easy to get trapped in the yuck. It’s like quicksand. One minute you’re doing okay and then as soon as you have a bad date, an outbreak, or even hear a herpes joke, you’re right back down in the pit of despair. I felt broken, worthless, and alone.

Gradually, I started to learn more about herpes. I learned about herpes transmission rates and ways to keep outbreaks under control. I learned that there were herpes dating sites and herpes support sites for people with herpes. I found a therapist and did some hard work with her, including letting go of my anger at the guy who raped me (which is how I ended up with herpes). I started to grow. I decided that I needed something to represent my new outlook on life. I’m a firm believer in body reclamation, and for me, that sometimes takes the form of tattoos.

The tattoo of the lotus flower on my right shoulder. The tattoo of the lotus flower on my right shoulder.

Halloween 2009, three months after my rape and one month after my herpes diagnosis, I decided to get a lotus tattoo on my right shoulder. The lotus flower grows in the mud in shallow water and does not bloom until it reaches the surface. While it’s growing, the flower petals are safe inside the blossom, which keeps them from getting stained by the mud. I always loved the symbolism of the lotus flower, but I didn’t realize how accurate the metaphor was for me until about two years later. I battled my anger, my resentment, and my self-consciousness many times over those two years. Healing is not a linear path. There are twists and turns, forks and loops. It took a lot of tears, many sleepless nights, and a lot of support to get me to where I am now.

Underneath the lotus is a Tibetan Buddhist mantra: “Om Mani Padme Hum.” This mantra is a devotion to Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. It serves as a daily reminder that I cannot know where someone else has been or what has led them to this point. It encourages me to show compassion to others as well as myself.

Thanks to Adrial and the Herpes Opportunity, I found the strength to “come out” about having herpes. I told my friends, family, and the internet. I have to say, I have never felt so free in my entire life. It feels wonderful to be able to speak openly about having herpes, instead of saying the word in hushed tones while constantly looking over my shoulder wondering who might be listening and judging. I look forward to talking about herpes during my weekly Skype call with Adrial. I get excited that other people will see our videos and hopefully crack a smile or giggle at our silliness. I feel genuine and authentic, which is a huge improvement over the way I felt when I was still “in the yuck.”

I encourage everyone to take time to reflect on where they are in the growth process. Are you still in the yuck? Don’t worry, there are others there too and you can help each other grow. Are you growing but not quite at the surface? Reach out and let people help you. And to those who have blossomed: Share your beauty with the world. Don’t be afraid of your roots. Remember them; because they are a testament to your strength and perseverance throughout this journey.

Ashley Manta is a feminist sexuality educator, certified consulting hypnotist, and sex-positive pleasure advocate. She has given presentations on topics including sexual violence awareness, positive body image, and sexual empowerment. She is available for a variety of  workshops which you can find on her website or you can follow her on Twitter @ashleymanta.

______________

Added by Adrial:

Our herpes community forum member DrSuz emailed me this after watching the video:
“Adoring the Skype party with you and Ashley. Pure positivity! Here is a favorite poem very pertinent to topic of this video. Enjoy!”

Sweet Darkness

When your eyes are tired
the world is tired also.

When your vision has gone
no part of the world can find you.

Time to go into the dark
where the night has eyes
to recognize its own.

There you can be sure
you are not beyond love.

The dark will be your womb
tonight.

The night will give you a horizon
further than you can see.

You must learn one thing:
the world was made to be free in.

Give up all the other worlds
except the one to which you belong.

Sometimes it takes darkness and the sweet
confinement of your aloneness
to learn

anything or anyone
that does not bring you alive

is too small for you.

— David Whyte
(House of Belonging)

herpes forum


View the original article here

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

[Video] Doctor answers questions about genital herpes (HSV) and HPV

Dr. Peter Leone (who has appeared in the New York Times and NPR’s Talk of the Nation) stopped by our monthly herpes support group on April 8, 2013, in Raleigh, NC, to give herpes facts and update us on the latest herpes statistics. He gave so much clarity around all the horribly misunderstood herpes information out there!

Topics covered:

herpes forum


View the original article here

Monday, July 8, 2013

[Video] Brenda (aka “Whoopsidaysi”) talks about her transformation

Guest author from our community: WhoopsiDaysi

“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” — Anais Nin

I would be lying if I said getting herpes was the best thing to ever happen to me. Much like I would not say being divorced was the best thing to ever happen to me — three times. (But that is another blog altogether.) What was the best thing to happen to me though was what I learned from those experiences. As painful as they both were to deal with, and as much as I thought “my life is over” after each event, I realized that hidden within those experiences were lessons waiting for me to learn. I learned we are the masters of our destiny and also of our mind. We choose what we think, how we feel, what we believe, and how we are going to react in any given situation. The experience of having herpes is no different.

“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” — Anais Nin

I remember getting the herpes diagnosis. It was on the heels of my son leaving home, which, to my surprise was a rather traumatic event for me. My reaction actually caught me off guard. As I was coming to terms with the ending of that part of my life, my marriage, my third and the one that I honestly thought was going to go the distance, dissolved before my eyes in a matter of two weeks. I was devastated and was at what I thought was my lowest point. I was to discover there was one point lower … At the end of November 2011 I noticed an irritation that just wouldn’t go away, no matter what I tried. I rationalized, bargained with God and prayed that it wasn’t what I feared it was. A herpes outbreak? You see, I had a partner 10 years previous who had herpes. My fears came to life on December 3, 2011 when I sat in the doctor’s office and I got the verdict: I have herpes. Welcome the bottom of the lowest point in my life. As I was considering my life of celibacy and rejection, I reached out via the internet. Low and behold, contrary to my belief, I was not the only “damned one” on this planet. There are many people with herpes. Thus began my unfolding and blossoming.

My journey had taken many twists and turns until one day I found myself sitting in a meeting room in Raleigh, North Carolina with a bunch of strangers who, after a few short days, would become part of my soul. When I first heard of the Herpes Opportunity, I was skeptical. I had no idea what it was about. I was in Canada on the other side of the country. Honestly, was I going to travel all the way to North Carolina for some herpes weekend? Turns out, yes — and I am so glad that I did. I got so much out of one short weekend. It is hard to describe what it is like but I’d love to share what I came away with …

The experience of the Herpes Opportunity weekend is something that is unique to each participant. It’s like listening to a song. It all depends on where you are in your life and the experiences you have had. The song may mean something different to you depending on what is going on in your life. The Herpes Opportunity weekend is like that. It all depends on where are you in your journey of healing, which makes it such a unique experience for each participant. This is not your typical workshop where you sit and listen to lectures. The weekend starts by you getting to know each other and developing a sense of trust and safety … and then the adventure begins.

I had so many takeaways from the weekend. For me, the biggest take away was learning to become more loving and accepting of myself and realizing that we all share so many of the same feelings, fears, insecurities, and false beliefs. When one person healed, we all healed. There is something about the group dynamic that is so amazing. I also realized there is something beautiful in just being with another person in their grief and pain. And when I realized how beautiful that was for someone else, I was able to extend that to myself. I have learned to sit with my emotions, whatever they are, and accept them as they are in that moment without judgment. By honoring my feelings, I can let them be expressed, heard and then pass.

After the weekend, I was so open to pushing my comfort zone to see what was possible. My heart was open and I was eager to try new experiences and to stretch myself to see what I was really capable of. Upon my return, I took a Nidra class, a tai chi class, a few kundalini yoga classes, attended a drumming circle and a chakra clearing meditation class. I have become more comfortable being uncomfortable and trying to see where my limits really are. I am now challenging my beliefs about “what is possible for me.” I am far more open in telling people I have herpes as well. I used to be afraid to have people know for fear they would judge me and reject me. Now I am doing YouTube interviews! If you would have asked me a year ago if I would do that sort of thing, it would be a definite “Are you insane?” Even now, it certainly pushes my comfort zone, but now I am open to it. I see my discomfort as more of a challenge than a limitation.

This herpes thing can be the worst thing to ever happen or it can be a blessing. The only person who can determine that for you is you. You can choose to be a victim or a victor. You can choose to see herpes as an opportunity or a limitation. It’s all in how you choose to look at it. If you are curious to see if maybe there is a way to loosen the hold that shame has on you around herpes, I would encourage you to push your comfort zone just a bit and come out to the Herpes Opportunity weekend. You can feel the fear and do it anyway, just like every single person who attended the last weekend in January did. Each of us was uncomfortable and unsure of what we were getting into, but we came anyway. And in our discomfort, we found healing, love and acceptance. Listen to that small, still voice within you. If this is an experience that both scares you and excites you all the same, then take that leap and see what is possible. You will be so glad you did.

“It’s impossible,” said pride
“It’s risky,” said experience
“It’s pointless,” said reason
“Give it a try,” whispered the heart
— Author unknown

herpes forum


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Thursday, April 11, 2013

[Video] Herpes interview with a sexuality educator

I just finished recording a fun Skype session with Ashley (a sexuality educator and clinician) about everything herpes. Some of the topics covered include …

Debunking some myths about herpes (getting herpes facts!)How to shift away from shame and blame and into self-acceptanceEnjoying sex just as much (or more than before) with your herpes-free partner while still protecting themHaving the herpes talkUsing a herpes outbreak as an opportunity to actually have more passion and intimacy in the bedroomHow to have AMAZING SEX (yes, even with herpes!)The importance of a supportive herpes community in the herpes healing processAshley’s process of getting herpes through sexual assaultThe false beliefs around not feeling worthy, being unlovable with herpesHow to combat the herpes stigma

herpes forum


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Sunday, January 20, 2013

The UltimateColdSoreTreatment.com’s Video Testimonial has had More than 100,000 Hits on YouTube

The winter months are when many people find themselves having to deal with repeated outbreaks of cold sores. The VyGone Zapper can speed up healing time and reduce the number of outbreaks.

London, UK (PRWEB) January 13, 2013

A video testimonial uploaded to YouTube by the Ultimatecoldsoretreatment.com website has been seen by more than 100,000 people in less than a month. The video about the power of the VyGone Inhibitor Zapper has been a huge success since it was uploaded on December 13th 2012 and has led to a surge in demand for the product.

Cold sore outbreaks are caused by the herpes virus. The VyGone Zapper is the best line of defense against the herpes virus and the unsightly and irritating symptoms it produces. While there is no permanent cure for the herpes virus the Zapper is able to quickly return it to its dormant state in just a few applications. The device uses unique technology based on electro-waveforms to stimulate the body’s cells and stop the virus from replicating and spreading. It has been clinically proven to inhibit and eliminate cold sores caused by the herpes virus and allows users to enjoy blemish free skin.

The Zapper is 100% safe and natural cold sores treatment with no side-effects. Non-chemical and non-invasive it is discrete and portable and can be applied in seconds to affected areas. When used regularly it has been shown to reduce outbreaks of the herpes virus and the severity of attacks. The Zapper can also be used to treat warts, moles, shingles and Molluscum quickly and effectively.

The VyGone Zapper is only available through the Ultimate Cold Sore Treatment website. Available in two models, the Plus and Pro, both versions are currently being sold through the site with $120 off the regular retail price.

About Ultimatecoldsoretreatment.com


The VyGone Inhibitor Zapper has received rave reviews from sufferers of cold sores and other conditions since its introduction in 2006. A number of clinical tests have been carried out on the zapper in which it has performed exceedingly well. For more information about the VyGone Inhibitor Pro and cold sore treatment visit the website at http://www.ultimatecoldsoretreatment.com/.

Paul Lynch
Search dot com
0800 2335140
Email Information


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Friday, October 5, 2012

Watch my herpes video diary

DAY 1

Last week, my girlfriend and I decided to go our separate ways. It’s been the most loving relationship I’ve ever experienced. And I was so afraid to let it go (even though we both knew it was time to let it go). All of the fear that was holding on to about what breaking up would look like ended up not being like that at all when it happened. Ultimately, as it was in our relationship, it has been the most loving breakup I’ve ever experienced, too. We still love each other, still live together until she finds a new place, still committed to the best for each other, and knowing that we aren’t meant to be together, at least not now. And this change has set me on a path of wanting to make sure I take care of myself, too. I have a tendency to feel alone if I don’t stay connected to what matters, if I don’t remind myself of what’s important.

So I have dedicated myself to get up by an alarm clock at 7:00a (which is early, folks, I’m a freelancer!), bolt out of bed, head out the door to start my first hour off with deep breathing, practicing gratitude, getting clear on what I want my future to look and feel like, and reminding myself to feel instead of shut down. I am lucky enough to have a beautiful forest and creek right across the street from me. And I go jogging along the creek during this routine. At a certain point along the path is a beautiful spot that overlooks a bend in the creek where I sit down and record whatever comes up. And I’ve decided to share the first three days of this video diary with you, with our community …

DAY 2, PART 1 (OF 3)

DAY 2, PART 2 (OF 3)

DAY 2, PART 3 (OF 3)

DAY 3


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Saturday, July 7, 2012

Virtual (phone-only) herpes support group [VIDEO]

Join us for a facilitated LIVE over-the-phone support group for whoever wants to share, however you would like to share. Be there to talk or be there to listen. Be there to support or be there to be supported.

Or all the above.

Click here to grab a 50% off seat »

What you get out of the deal:

A private, safe space over the phone for you to talk about herpesEither share your herpes story or support others by listening to their storiesCome once or many timesGet herpes information from people who live itNormalizing herpes and minimizing shameThe support group becomes whatever it needs to be based on who shows up on the call (could include people simply sharing their story and getting feedback from others or could turn into one-on-one or group activities)Other people with herpes who understand where you’re coming from (there’s always the option at the end of each call to get linked up with people to further the connection)Continue the conversation on the herpes forum afterward

Here’s what people are saying!

TESTIMONIALS FOR VIRTUAL HERPES SUPPORT GROUP:

“I really enjoyed the herpes opportunity virtual support group tonight. It was a really great experience connecting with everyone, and I like the way you conducted everything. It felt like a really safe, open space for everyone to be.” — DB“After hanging up [from the herpes virtual support group] tonight, I feel so much better. I can’t begin to explain how much I appreciate this group. Much adoration!!” — JR“Thank you so much for creating the Herpes Opportunity. It has changed my life. I have had herpes for three years now and there have been tough times with self defeat/shame. I’m recently divorced and have dealt with feelings of ‘who will want me.’ Not anymore. I now see this as an opportunity to a strong, happy, fulfilled self and relationship in the future thanks to you.” — SM“Thanks again for all of this. It really helped me out in a big way. This is exactly what I needed, what I was looking for. Last night was one of the first times that I didn’t feel alone, and felt accepted with having H. I have been looking for a sense of community since my diagnosis, and I found it here. Just hearing people go through the same trials and troubles that I am going through gave me so much strength and hope that there really are good people in the world. I can’t wait for the next group, to be able to connect with others.” — AF“Awesome support group!! I loved it. This herpes virtual support group is a means to surround myself by beautiful and authentic people. In our daily lives, we  usually have to hide something or appear a certain way for other people. I love this support group because the gap between who we appear to be and who we are is closed. Authenticity shows up. The good, the bad, and the ugly are all there and there is no need to cover anything up. Connecting with other people in this very real container helps me realize that I am not alone and that life goes on for everyone, regardless of what circumstances show up. Thank you so much for creating this safe space to share, deepen my awareness, and move forward!” — CW“I just want let you know that the group was AMAZING! You really did a great job. I learned soooo much about myself as well as the situation at hand (which really isn’t a situation). :) I thank you for being there to listen and relate. You are just a blessing. I would like to stay connected to every participant as well as you.” — CL“The group helped me open up about my herpes. It allowed me to become more comfortable talking about it and dealing with my diagnosis. Hearing others’ stories made me realize on a deeper level that I am not alone. It’s been a real eye-opener for me.  It’s great to have a group of people to talk to that know what I deal with on a daily basis.” — JM

Looking forward to connecting with you on the call soon!

Click here to grab a 50% off seat »herpes forum


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