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by John Calabrese, Huntington, NY
Yes, there are tons of self-help books out there already, so why do we need another? Because, just like people, they’re all unique, helping each of us absorb information in his or her own individual way. From content to presentation, Cameron shines. Well-known for her “Artist’s Way” series, The Prosperous Heart focuses on how to balance making a living with living a fulfilling life. To do this, she expands our definitions of “prosperous” well beyond what we’ve come to understand it represents. Asking questions is essential if we want to break new ground, especially questioning ways of thinking and doing that are causing boredom, indifference, fear, anger, mistrust, or even addictions. What do we really need? How can we acquire or create it? And how much of these things are actually “enough”? When we begin the slow process of self-examination, we also begin to separate what we’ve been conditioned to think and believe from what might truly work better for us - mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. How we handle our money and lifestyles, and ultimately our very sense of happiness, is based on how we handle our self-image, emotions and beliefs. Trust, kindness, community, forgiveness (including for ourselves!), generosity - and a plan to help us balance all of this, is ours to study and live, in The Prosperous Heart.
THE CHEMISTRY OF CALM: “Regulating the autonomic nervous system is key,” an esteemed acupuncturist told me recently, while discussing how to best manage stress. Yes, nutrition, sleep, exercise and other lifestyle factors are powerful contributors to calm, but the most powerful is how well the mind operates the brain, along with what we “feed” them. After realizing how many issues were exacerbated by the double blade of fear and anxiety, Emmons developed Resilience Training, “a step-by-step training in mental calmness and emotional wisdom.” Everything you need to know to extract yourself from anxiety, depression, and any stress-related problems is here, in an accessible, easy to look at and understand format. Just the chapter on quieting the mind is worth the price of the book. As a doctor who works primarily by the Hippocratic Oath to “do no harm,” Emmons is aware that all prescription drugs have some measure of side effects. And although medication works for many people, there are plenty more who would prefer natural approaches if they were offered. His approaches are broad yet specific, touching on an impressive array of topics, including - but not limited to - neurochemistry, energetics, nature, mindfulness, self-acceptance, and developing a sense of belonging. In a world where inner and outer peace is desperately needed, The Chemistry of Calm is a very useful, reassuring guide.
HOME MASSAGE
PRINCIPLES &
TECHNIQUES In their remarkable Home Massage book, and companion Principles & Techniques DVD, Chuck Fata and Suzette Hodnett have paved the path for “transforming family life through the healing power of touch.” Designed with easy-to-follow instructions and large, demonstrative photos, this book/DVD combo illustrates the perfect way to implement a safe, caring environment that encourages the holistic benefits of non-sexual touch. Fata and Hodnett do a wonderful job of offering ample information regarding massage, as well as creative suggestions on how to employ these techniques in our daily, family routines. This set is not only instructional, but also highly educational and informative. It is a wonderful way to introduce appropriate touch to children, as well as form intimate bonds between each member of the family. It is a profound tool, one that compliments the healing power of touch beautifully. Reviewed by Erica Settino
GUARDIANS OF BEING: Spiritual New York Times bestselling author, Eckhart Tolle, and Mutts Comics creator, Patrick McDonnell, have joined creative forces to produce a book so simple, yet stunningly profound that its resulting lessons—those garnered from our animal companions— prove themselves worthy of standing amongst some of the greatest spiritual teachings of our time. In classic Mutts style, McDonnell reminds us of an animal’s sentience and intelligence, with ingenious artistic wit and insight. Tolle uses his well-respected spiritual wisdom as a nod of appreciation, highlighting all that our animal companions offer and teach, simply by being themselves. In a beautifully simplistic medium, one that is executed articulately and lovingly, Tolle and McDonnell have managed to capture the very essence of what it means to live life to the fullest; all we need do is live like the animals. Reviewed by Erica Settino
John Calabrese is the Editor-at-Large at Creations Magazine and has a private counseling practice in Huntington, NY. |
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