Ask the Oracle on Coldplay.com (Now in session!)

[Denise]

January 5, 2012 - submitted by Sarkhail, United Arab Emirates[/color][/b]

 

Q. Dear Oracle,

I received the handwritten lyrics by Chris in my email and I noticed that after almost every song there is a little Triangular shape with something written in it and I can't seem to make out what that is, can you help please?

Also, NYE show in Abu Dhabi was awesome! I must see them again! And this time in Dubai!

Thanks!

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

It's like a tent right? It's the Under 1 Roof logo. The event took place on Sunday 11th December and was a great success.

That was actually Saturday 10th December, they played xfactor on Sunday :P

[Tash]

^ :nod: :lol:

[MartinFan]

January 5, 2012 - submitted by Ariel Aparicio, United States of America[/color][/b]

 

Q. Hi Oracle, heard on the Howard Stern Show that Chris was spreading something down his throat. What is it? Is it something he does before singing?

 

Thanks, much love.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

That will have been Tiger Balm that I have mentioned before.

 

 

He put something down the inside of his throat, I don't think it was Tiger Balm, maybe he rubbed it on the outside of the throat, but not the inside. I believe Howard was saying something to Chris like, "Hey Man, why did you stick 2 fingers down your throat", something like that????

[NumbersGirl]

^ Yeah isn't Tiger Balm what he uses instead of cologne? :uhoh:

I can't imagine him putting that in his mouth. Lemon, ginger and honey, yes... but Tiger Balm?

[Tash]

Exactly, that wouldn't be a wise thing to do...

 

I found this on some health site

Tiger Balm in your mouth will cause burning of the mouth, throat and may cause seizures.

[Wyrd]

January 5, 2012 - submitted by Greg, Germany[/color][/b]

 

Q. Almighty Oracle, I need Your help!

 

How do I get rid of my fear of the dentists?

 

Thanks in advance.

 

Greg

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

WARNING: second link is not for the faint-hearted!

Well, aside from hypnotherapy, meditation or relaxing techniques that can all help I can offer you a couple of free photos that may help you rationalize that those few minutes of discomfort are worth it to prevent your teeth from looking like lovely Shane's or these gnashers.

omg, I think I want to make an appointment with my dentist like RIGHT NOW

 

:laugh3:

[taameen**sparks**]

He put something down the inside of his throat, I don't think it was Tiger Balm, maybe he rubbed it on the outside of the throat, but not the inside. I believe Howard was saying something to Chris like, "Hey Man, why did you stick 2 fingers down your throat", something like that????

 

:confused: That's weird... I thought he would rub it in on the outside of his throat....

[busybeeburns]

omg, I think I want to make an appointment with my dentist like RIGHT NOW

 

:laugh3:

I love going to the dentist, I have a strange addiction to the smell.... :laugh3:

[James.]

^^^^

Tiger Balm in the mouth may cause seizures? That explains Chris' dancing style then! :P

:laugh3:

[purplemonkeyz232]

I love going to the dentist, I have a strange addiction to the smell.... :laugh3:

 

You too??? Great, I'm not entirely crazy! :D

[TraceOddity]

^^^^

Tiger Balm in the mouth may cause seizures? That explains Chris' dancing style then! :P

:laugh3:

 

:lol:

[Tash]

January 6, 2012 - submitted by The Oracle, United Kingdom

 

Q. WHO'D LIKE TO JOIN TEAM ORACLE?

When I answer questions of a personal nature, Coldplay.com readers often get in touch with their own thoughts. So, we now have a weekly feature, Team Oracle, whereby each Friday (with the question asker's permission) we open up a question to all of you to answer too. Then, the following Friday, I'll post a selection of the best answers, alongside my own reply.

ANYONE can join in so, if you'd like to, please email your response to the following question, in no more than 250 words, to [email protected] before Thursday 12th January.

 

Dear Oracle. The Christmas of 2011 has been the worst of my entire life. I got home one day and my parents told me they are getting a divorce and my dad is moving out. On top of that, a week before Christmas, my boyfriend for 3 years told me he wanted to break up. My life is changing, and I have no clue what I'm supposed to do. I can't take this anymore. The sadness is just too much. Sadness is a sea and I have been swimming for a long time. Hopefully, music, time and freedom will help, but I need some advice; how do I get passed this, when I have an extra hundred things on my mind? How am I supposed to keep swimming? And, can you recommend some music that helps? Thank you. Malin, Norway

 

Look forward to seeing your replies.

The Oracle

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Please email your replies to [email protected]

[Tash]

January 6, 2012 - submitted by Madalena, United States of America

 

Q. TEAM ORACLE QUESTION - #53

I am 15 years old. I think I suffer from hyperhydrosis. It's not that much of a big deal, but it is uncomfortable and ruins my self-esteem.

I mean, I already feel like a freak most of the time, but this makes me feel even weirder and disgusting.

My parents won't take me to the doctor, because they think I'm making everything up. I'm starting to get desperate and I don't know what to do.

This is not really something I can tell my friends about, so you're the one that occurred to me.

Please help me. I'm desperate. I don't know what to do.

Love from a Coldplayer,

Madalena

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

As with most medical queries it's not wise to try and diagnose and treat the symptoms. I can't really look at the causes either but I can try and help in other ways. Firstly, you do need to find out whether you're dealing with hyperhidrosis or not. That will require a visit to the doctor - with or without your parents. Is there another family member who can go with you? Or at the very least help you talk to them? It's your body and your life and though you say "it's not that much of a big deal", it clearly is or you wouldn't have asked for help. The impact it's having on your life sounds like a big deal to me so I'm hoping you won't continue to suffer in silence. This was your first step, so keep that going. I advise you to speak to a school counsellor so you have someone to talk to at a place you have to go to almost every day. You're not a freak - with or without excessive perspiring - but in most cases there are ways to manage, control or cure the problem. Sweating is a natural body function and especially in the teen years it can become troublesome so don't rule out the possibility that you have yet to find what works for you. Try different anti-perspirants, make sure you're keeping hydrated (I know that sounds mad) as that will help the body function correctly. There are plenty websites that can help you try different options. It's a shame you don't feel you can talk to your friends, you never know one or two may be going through a similar thing. Growing up can be a pain sometimes with all the weird things that happen to our bodies but don't worry, there's often a simple remedy but it will take your courage to tackle it head on. Try not to feel embarrassed by it as you're not alone - hold your head up high. Over to you.

 

Hello Madalena - Does your school have a school nurse or health office? Please stop in and tell them about your problem. A wellness professional should be able to ask you the right questions to determine what the problem is and perhaps give you some advice to help you. If hyperhidrosis is the problem, the professional can write a recommendation that you can show to your parents to encourage them to take you to your family physician who can then treat you. If you don't have a nurse or wellness professional at school, I encourage you to talk to a trusted coach or teacher who can then guide you. Good luck and best wishes for good health. Love, Jill.

 

I want to start by saying that I admire you for sharing your story. From your short message to the Oracle, I learned a very good thing about you. I learned that you are a brave girl, and that will take you very far in life. This message shows that you have courage, which is amazing.

What I think you should do is, first of all, take a deep breath and remember that you are never alone - there are always therapists, support groups and other people who can help you. Let your parents cool off for a little while and after some time, tell them again. (Parents can be hard to understand from time to time, but they still love you.)

In the meantime, focus on yourself and on good things in life. If your parents refuse to take you to the doctor, I think you should go by yourself. If no one wants to listen, write a story and let your feelings out that way. If you can't share your secret with your friends, share it with someone else. If you feel like there's no way out, look in the mirror and tell yourself that you will find a way. Whenever you feel like there is no one who understands you, remember me - I understand you. Everything WILL be okay. I promise. You just need to believe in yourself! Good luck! Stay strong. Best wishes, Medina.

 

I am so sorry you are going through a difficult situation in your life. You are aware and enabled to deal with it I can tell. Many resources exist and are available. You first need to accept it, get comfortable with it and then use your intellect and resources to combat it.This is something that you can do if you put your attention and heart into. Yes! Let your friends know... where else will you find support? True friends will see you through others are fakes and don't empathize with your situation. There are medical interventions and mental interventions that can be resources. Best of luck, and happy new year. SD, in IL, USA.

 

I'm not really in a position to comment on medical conditions, for obvious reasons. However I believe it is imperative you seek a professional diagnosis before you can properly deal with your symptoms. Can you speak to an older, trusted, female relative to book a Doctor's appointment? This condition is manageable with medical treatment.

This may also be just a part of your body's development and could disappear as fast as the years will with unproductive worrying. Are there certain things that start your problems - school lessons or certain food/drinks? Trying to identify these will also help you focus and remain calm. Please try to concentrate on positives in your life, try making a list of them with a good friend and share your feelings. I remember how tough the teenage years are, you will get through this, and as (in my humble opinion) all "Coldplayers" are beautiful people you will also remain one too. Kind Regards and Good Luck, Jonathan.

 

As the parent of a daughter who suffered from hyperhydrosis from birth. I recognized it and sought help for her from the beginning, but all the various things didn't help. I want you to tell your parents that they will be happy if do everything in their power to find help for you. I saw the embarrassment and heartache my daughter suffered at the hands of insensitive classmates, and would once again ask the doctor what could be done. We tried creams, the electrical shock machine, relaxation, to no avail. She had no self-confidence. By the time I finally found a doctor who had an answer for her she was 19 (surgery called a sympathectomy) and gave up career dreams. The sweat glands will compensate elsewhere: she now sweats more on her back and behind her knees, but it's nothing like dealing with drippy hands, feet and underarms. I hope you can be heard. Don't give up, don't get desperate, believe that you are more than this, and there are people who value you, and someday when you're on your own you can solve your problem yourself if it can't be done now.

Sincerely, A mother.

 

I'll share my own experience. You don't mention the part of the body it is feet, hands, armpits or face. When I was younger I had same problem - it was on my feet and face, especially on my nose. Sometimes my palms and back too. Most probably it's going to kind of disappear as we learn to deal with the stress better only by years, it's just a matter of time. I would suggest simple daily hygienic and patience, age 15 kind of sucks I know! And some people are a bit more sensitive, both emotionally and physically, nothing wrong in that. I would recommend to LISTEN to your body and its reaction (on food for example).

Kiti, Belgium X

 

I'm about to turn 18 and I know exactly what you're going through. The same thing happened to me in ninth grade and I tried reaching out numerous times to my parents who refused to listen to me. The psychological trouble alone from knowing you can't really turn to anyone about your problem, and then having your own parents scorn your pleas is heartbreaking, so first off I would like to apologize to you for anyone who can't fully empathize with your situation.

What I did was write a letter to my pediatrician explaining the situation and how my parents wouldn't help me. For my next appointment my doctor asked me a couple of questions and then told me to try the over the counter deodorant Certaindri it actually worked pretty well for me, but I had to tell him that it stopped working as well after a while and he prescribed me to another one that I currently use right now. Try writing a letter to your pediatrician or someone you see whenever you go to the doctor. I hope this helps. Belinda.

 

It's always very sad and painful to read that a 15 years old girl is suffering.

The only thing I feel to say is that maybe every problem at the end of the game, resides in somebody's head. Madalena, maybe you start to sweat just because you know that any moment sooner or later you'll start to sweat. When you'll stop worrying about that you'll stop suffer of that. Most likely it's just a matter of getting confidence in yourself, try to see it as a temporary pain in the ass that comes with youth like acne. One day you'll be a realized beautiful woman and hopefully a good mother and this will be just a story to tell your kids to keep 'em humble. Francesco.

I feel your pain. I'm almost completely certain I have ADHD and I'm in the same position. Telling people gets me nowhere. Not only that, but I'm also bisexual and, in the community I live in, telling other people would not only get me nowhere but might put me in danger. I wish I could say there's an easy way out, but I can't.

Fortunately, like me, in a few years you'll likely leave your parents' home and enter a wildly different community, be it college or elsewhere. If you can't find help now, you will then, especially since then you can visit a doctor or specialist on your own.

Until then, if you are a member of some online community, like a forum or message board, I would recommend sharing your trouble there, with as many details as you are comfortable with. You can usually find someone who can help or at least sympathize with you.

If you start to feel like a freak, stop. Thanks to the God-sent miracle of social relativity, there is no such thing. If someone else is making you feel like a freak, don't ever let it get to you. If you feel really down, don't be scared to do anything you love to do as a form of escape. Escapism is not a bad thing or just avoiding the issue. Escapism is a wonderful release and a way to save yourself from despair. May God bless you. Love, Elah.

 

Feeling different sucks and that's the only way to put it. The first step is to know your not alone. Here is a link to the international hyperhidrosis society page. This will help you know your not alone. Second off (This is the tough one) Tell your friends. If they have a problem with it they are not really your friends. Chances are they will still like you and try to help. They probably have some problem of their own. I know personally I'm very shy. Which makes life some times hard to live sometimes. Hope this helps. Laura from Ohio.

 

First of all, don't let this thing ruin your self esteem, hyperhidrosis sounds like a very difficult thing to live with, and I can understand why your parents want to think that you don't have it. You're not a freak by any means, and everyone on this earth has flaws like this. I have mine, and when I told my parents about my problem, in this case, depression, they shrugged it off by saying I was just sad. I suggest going to see someone trained in this profession, to back you up on your claim, and if no one is nearby, you could get in contact with one, over the phone, or the internet.

Also, upon looking up various treatments for hyperhidrosis, I found that there are procedures that can be done to treat it, and medicines prescribed to absolve it. While some of these may be hard to access, I've also read that relaxation and meditation are good ways to prevent hyperhidrosis, so I'd give that a try. Best wishes, and good luck, Bradley H.

 

Thanks everyone, a great start to the year. Don't forget, Team Oracle is open to EVERYONE so

click here to read this week's Team Oracle question, and send us your answer.

[Tash]

January 9, 2012 - submitted by Sharon, United Kingdom

 

Q. I see the guys have no tour dates between January and April. What are they up to in between? Any new studio material due perhaps?

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Blimey Sharon they've only just got going on the MX campaign so it's not likely they'd be heading back in the studio so soon. January always starts gently with family time and holidays before getting back to work. Work for the guys is all encompassing with promo, rehearsals and preparing for the upcoming tour. There will always be writing going on regardless of the schedule but no new recordings to be released at this early stage.

[Tash]

January 9, 2012 - submitted by Olivia, Canada

 

Q. Paradise is absolutely one of my favorite songs, but lately I've started to ponder over the meaning. The dictionary says paradise is a place of extreme beauty, delight, or happiness. I think that paradise is different for everyone and that it is always beautiful, but somewhat unattainable. O mighty oracle, what is your definition of paradise?

From a Candian Coldplayer,

Olivia

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Paradise does represent different thing to different people but you can't re-write its dictionary definition. You're right in some ways as a place of extreme beauty, delight or happiness may not always be achievable.

The first meaning of paradise I encountered was at church when at primary school. Heaven was commonly referred to as paradise - I suppose it fits - though these days that's the last thing I would think of when thinking of my own paradise. The Maldives is the closest I came to feeling I was in a real paradise but then I also visited a local island where locals lived and it was anything but in comparison. It opened to my eyes to how man-made and false paradise can be too.

[Tash]

January 9, 2012 - submitted by Layla, United Kingdom

 

Q. Hi

My dream is to meet Coldplay they are my inspirations but where do I start off?

I mean I am just one person so it's not like if they were in Madrid and heard this they would come fly here in London just to see one person so how would I meet them?

I live at EDITED

 

Thank you.

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

I know you say "I am just one person" but the truth is you are one of thousands of people who would also love the opportunity to meet the band so I'm afraid it just isn't possible regardless of the fact you're in London and so are they.

Regular readers will know I don't encourage people to turn up at the studio so meeting the band is all down to chance but I will tell you something quite funny...

As you gave your address I know you live less than a mile away from me! I bet we've passed each other on the High St.

[TraceOddity]

January 9, 2012 - submitted by Sharon, United Kingdom[/color][/b]

 

Q. I see the guys have no tour dates between January and April. What are they up to in between? Any new studio material due perhaps?

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Blimey Sharon they've only just got going on the MX campaign so it's not likely they'd be heading back in the studio so soon. January always starts gently with family time and holidays before getting back to work. Work for the guys is all encompassing with promo, rehearsals and preparing for the upcoming tour. There will always be writing going on regardless of the schedule but no new recordings to be released at this early stage.

 

And don't forget Award Season. That'll keep them pretty busy too if they're nominated for any. NRJ and the Grammys, at least.

[coldplaymom]

Something tells me Chris is going to pop up at one of these BBC radio stations soon and give an interview or perform.

[TraceOddity]

Someone said he was planning to spend more time in Dubai, but I don't know if that's really the case.

[coldplaymom]

There was a mention of an interview in Dubai but I haven't been able to locate it. Did you?

[TraceOddity]

Nope. But I haven't searched MM for it either.

[coldplaymom]

I work at home, so I prefer to work at night when everyone's asleep. What's your excuse for being up so late?

[TraceOddity]

Pretty much the same.Small business, full-time musician, so these hours suit me.:)

[coldplaymom]

Ha! Makes sense.

[Tash]

January 10, 2012 - submitted by Celeste, United States of America

 

Q. Oh Oracle I need your help. In early December I bought tickets as a present for my boyfriend. We broke up a week later and it wasn't a bad break up. BUT! Lately he's been being a jerk and not a really good friend. The tickets are under my name and they check i.d's. Do I still ask him to go with me to the concert that is in a few weeks, or do I find someone else to go with? I feel bad asking someone else to go with because they were initially for someone else. I hope all this wording made sense and that you can try helping me! Thank you!

 

 

The Oracle replies:

 

Well I have to say that if you buy something for someone as a gift it'd normally be bad form to renege on it. Although... you don't want to be going to a Coldplay concert with someone who has been behaving like an arse either so in this case I would say it's totally acceptable to tell him that you've had a change of heart. Take someone you like who's a good friend and have a great time!