Brian Luke Seaward

This weekend, in a small village about an hour north of New York City, a conference will take place that honors television, video and cinema and the people who use these media in an effort to offer hope for humanity and the world we live in. The conference is called, Images and Voices of Hope Summit (below is a link to their website). I first learned of this summit last summer when I received an email informing me that my documentary, Earth Songs: Mountains, Water and the Healing Power of Nature, was nominated as a contender for their annual award. The nomination is itself an honor, and as a first time film producer/director, I feel very privileged to be included in this group of acclaimed luminaries. Congratulations to all the nominees and a hearty thank you to all the people who have dedicated their lives in which to make the world a better place to live.

Many people use cinema to change social norms, raise consciousness and influence people to make the world a better place in which to live. This was my purpose in making my movie, Earth Songs. This was the purpose of Al Gore’s movie, An Inconvenient Truth. Movies and the various media used to distribute cinema may be created to inform, educate and entertain, but when all is said and done, what moves people to change is being affected emotionally in a positive way. This, indeed, is what images and voices of hope is all about.

When one considers media outlets like Fox News and talk radio hosts (who shall go nameless here) who use media to instill fear, it becomes a black eye on humanity. Many people say that there is nothing good on television anymore. While this may be true, there are many people using film (primarily documentaries) to share important messages and evoke emotions that raise consciousness in the hopes to make the world a better place. Please keep looking for these films. Please make an effort to listen to these voices. They do exist, and they are certainly worth watching, perhaps several times.

• Stress Tip for the Day:
Find an uplifting movie to watch tonight or this weekend. But don’t watch it alone. Make a family cinema night. Or invite some friends over, have a pot luck before then watch. Discuss the movie afterwards. What it means, why it was made, and how it might inspire you to make the world a better place. If you cannot think of a good movie choice, consider these options:
• It’s a Wonderful Life
• Gandhi
• To Kill a Mockingbird
• The Miracle Worker
• Field of Dreams

• Links Worth Noting:
http://ivoh.org/

• Quote of the Day:
“Film as dream, film as music. No art passes our conscience in the way film does, and goes directly to our feelings, deep down into the dark rooms of our souls.” —Ingmar Bergman

• Photo of the Day:
Earth Songs was screened in St. Louis a few weeks ago at the Healing Touch International Conference. It received a standing ovation. Thanks to all the people who have supported me an my efforts to share this film with the world. On a personal note, I would like to express my humble gratitude to renowned actor Michael York for his stunning narration, composer Brian Keane for his incredible musical score and all the people who were involved in the production of Earth Songs.

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

A friend called me the other day and began the conversation with an apology. It caught me by surprise, perhaps because I couldn’t remember the incident in question. It didn’t take long to realize that whatever this was, it was weighing quite heavily on his mind and he felt it was time to make amends. Asking for forgiveness by way of an apology is not an easy thing to do, yet anyone on their death bead will tell you, it is something that really has to be done to achieve inner peace. Not everyone has the chance to have these death bed moments, which makes these times of resolution all the more important while we are quite alive. Making peace within ourselves, by making peace with others is an essential (but often neglected) part of the human journey. It is fear that blocks many people from seeking this level of peace with others, yet it is this same fear that needs to be resolved to achieve inner peace. Making amends is one of many ways to domesticate the ego, a stress management technique we all need to do on a regular basis. And… when we are on the receiving end of the apology, domesticating the ego is also in order, for holding grudges only perpetuates stress and that is no way to live a life of inner peace.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Is there someone whom you wish to make peace with, but have held back due to fear? As the expression goes, there is no time like the present to act. Making amends is one of the 12 steps in AA, as well as many other self-help programs (please see/read links below). Perhaps more importantly, making amends is one of the essential steps in seeking inner peace and enhancing one’s spiritual growth. Seeking forgiveness with others may result in some pleasant surprises. It many also produce few, if any results. But as we clear our conscience of our misdeeds (and learn from the experience), indeed, w make the world a better place.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Before you pick up the phone or hit the send button on that email or Facebook update, please read these links on the art of making amends:

http://www.hazelden.org/web/public/has70305.page

http://www.ehow.com/how_2075102_make-amends-mistakes.html

http://www.innerself.com/Spirituality/bastis_madeline_01184.htm

• Quotes for the Day:
“It is the highest form of self-respect to admit our errors and mistakes and make amends for them. To make a mistake is only an error in judgment, but to adhere to it when it is discovered shows infirmity of character.” —Dale E. Turner

“The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing. ” ~John Powell

• Photo of the Day:
A sunrise photo of my last day in Bora Bora a few weeks ago. Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

As we approach the fall equinox tomorrow, it’s a good time to stop and reflect on the concept of balance; specifically inner balance. Inner balance is a metaphor for homeostasis: that which unites mind, body and spirit in haromy—where the whole is always greater than the sum of the parts. In a stress-filled world where people are tugged at from all directions (family, career, social networking, etc.) it is quite easy to become unbalanced and lose our center of gravity. Imbalance will ultimately lead to serious health issues, if not corrected. The autumnal equinox, like the vernal equinox, serves as a conscious reminder to contemplate the significance of inner balance and what we need to do to return to and maintain a sense of center. For many people it means to decrease the excesses that cause a lilting of our being. For others it means pulling things into one’s life to regain a sense of balance. In truth, we are comprised of many scales of balance, from nutritional (energy) balance to our finances to the art of emotional balance. With light and darkness in balance tomorrow, nature serves as a wonderful teacher that reminds us to return to balance. Taoism, a philosophy of life is really a philosophy about living your life in balance. One expression from Lao Tzu, the father of the Taoist philosophy states: Stand like mountain, flow like water.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
To stand like mountain means to be solid, stable and secure in your environment; to stand firm in the midst of change. To flow like water means to go with the flow with things we cannot control. Take time today to question when you must stand, and when you should go with the flow. If you are not sure, consider this sage advice from Reinhold Niebuhr: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
The balance of nature, the balance of energy, the balance of finances. There is no shortage of books and references on the topic of balance. Here are a couple of websites, and to this I would add that Al Gore wrote a great book decades ago called EARTH in the Balance, which is every bit as important today as it was when he wrote it.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/work-life-balance/WL00056

http://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/5-strategies-for-life-balance

http://www.lifebalanceinstitute.com/

• Quote for the Day:
“Be aware of wonder: Live a balanced life—learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work some every day. ” — Robert Fulghum

• Photo of the Day:
Surfing on the north shore of Oahu on the notorious pipeline is a challenge for only the best surfing dudes, and having tried my hand at surfing (but not there) I can tell you balance is definitely essential for this sport, as in life. Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Experts in the field of sociology are worried about the downward spiral of human civility. Their concern in not about the drug wars fought on the Mexican US borders or the Taliban problems in Afghanistan. No, they are concerned with human behavior across the American continent, from small towns to large cities. In general, people today are more rude, less tolerant, more cynical, less patient, more greedy, less friendly, more aggressive and less trusting of others. Simply stated, when people are stressed, they are not nice to be around. This, they say, does not bode well for culture as a whole. Some blame technology. Others blame bad parenting. Still others blame the media, specifically the talk shows where ranting is the norm. The bottom line is that as people become more self-centered and narcissistic, they become more clueless about the people around them, and while not acting out of malicious intent, it sure comes across this way. Civility is one attribute that separates us from the rest of the animal kingdom. Civility, and by association, chivalry, are rare commodities today. We are reverting back to our animal nature, and this is anything but good. It’s H.G. Wells worst nightmare on the island of Dr. Moreau.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Make a vow today to join the ranks of the civil society, even if it seems like you are a minority of one. Without sacrificing yourself esteem, put other people first today. Smile at strangers. Open up doors for people walking right behind you. Allow other people to cut in front of you when waiting in lines. Don’t use your cell phone in public— at all! Strive to be aware (not oblibvious) and courtious of others. In general, just be nice to people. You might even be surprised at how one good turn deserves another. The karma of “As you sow, so shall you reap” is never far behind you. Open your heart to others, simply because it’s the right thing to do. Surprisingly, you may notice that in being nice to others, people act more civil to you too.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
The following is an interesting essay on civililty in America.
http://www.mysanantonio.com/opinion/Time_for_a_culture_of_civility_in_America.html

Photo of the Day: While in Ireland this summer, I stopped and chatted with some locals in County Cork. We had a great exchange of conversation and laughter. They commented about the youth of today being too tied to technology, oblivious to others around them;incivility. I told them it is the same in the US, and not just kids. Adults act this way too. Then we talked about music, some politics and good food.

• Quote for the Day: “As citizens we have to be more thoughtful and more educated and more informed. I turn on the TV and I see these grown people screaming at each other, and I think, well, if we don’t get our civility back, we’re in trouble.” — Emmylou Harris, singer/songwriter.

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Does it seem like the pace of life is speeding up? If you say “yes,” you are not alone. This appears not to be simply an American phenomenon, as people all over the world have noticed this fact. Several people have made initiatives to slow things down a bit, including the slow food movement (in opposition to the fast food movement) which began in Italy and quickly spread to France, and now the US. The slow food movement encourages people to cook their meals rather than order their meals through a drive-up window or microwave them in a plastic bag. This movement also encourages people to actually taste the food that enters their mouth and chew it, rather than inhale it, or consume the equivalent of a whole meal while standing at the fridge. Although the data isn’t in yet, speculation suggests that the number of speeding tickets is also on the rise (in case you were wondering, Police Departments across the country really do set quotas, as reported recently on the NPR show, This American Life. Given the shortfall of municipal tax base revenues due to foreclosures, the fines for speeding tickets have increased dramatically too!) The pace of life may be quickening, but you don’t have to add to the furry. Slow down!

Stress Tip for the Day:
How many meals do you prepare from scratch in your home. How long does it take to consume a meal? Do you eat on the run (or standing at the fridge?) Do you travel the speed limit on local municipal roads? How many speeding tickets have you received in the past year? Do you literally find yourself out of breath racing from errand to errand? Do you suffer from heartburn (acid reflux)? This may be an indication that you are someone who inhales your food rather than chewing it. If you answered yes to any of these, there is a pretty good chance you are living your life in the fast lane, headed for burnout. Take some time to re-evaluate your life and see where it is that you can pull into the slow lane and stop to smell the roses.

Links or Books Worth Noting:
There are several books on the Slow Food Movement, including Marc David’s book, The Slow Down Diet.
Here are some links that you might find of interest as well.
http://www.slowfood.com/
http://www.slowfoodusa.org/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slow_Food

Photo of the Day: This photo was taken on a lazy morning stroll along the dock facing Mount Otemanu on the island of Bora Bora, Tahiti. Enjoy!

Quote for the Day: “Slow down, you move to fast, you’ve got to make the morning last.” Paul Simon, 59th Street Bridge Song

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

The banana is the most commonly consumed fruit in the US and even then we don’t eat all that many. By and large, Americans don’t eat that much fruit all. When I taught nutrition at the University of Colorado, I would meet students each semester who confided in me that they NEVER ate any fruits or veggies. Without casting judgement, I felt sorry for their current and future health status. Fruits and veggies not only contain loads of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, they also contain fiber. Fiber acts like a broom that cleans out the GI tract. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that a lack of fiber in one’s diet can lead to many health problems (e.g., colon cancer is the third leading cause of death by cancer.) Having just returned from two weeks in Tahiti (Moorea, Huahine and Bora Bora) fresh fruit not only compliments each meal, sometimes it was the entire meal. Not a bad idea, particularly when it tasted so good.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
How many servings of fruits have you had today? Ideally, fruits should be included in each meal. Make it a point to include some type of fruit serving in each meal (and snacks). Nutritionists and health experts suggest to each locally grown produce whenever possible, and organic whenever possible as well. They also suggest to eat a healthy variety of fruit (not just bananas). One suggestion is to consume every color of the rainbow each day. Not only does this provide a variety of bioflavinoids (which help prevent cancer), a rainbow diet adds to the health and vitality to each chakra and its associated color, from the root chakra (red) to the crown chakra (purple). Consider making a list of the seven colors of the rainbow and next to each color, list five fruits and veggies of that color. Use this as your next grocery list.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
This website calculates the amount of fruits and veggies you should have per day when you enter in your age, gender and physical activity level. The next web link provides more info that we should all know about fruits and veggies.

http://www.fruitsandveggiesmatter.gov/
http://www.fruitsandveggiesmatter.gov/benefits/index.html

• Quote for the Day:
“A table, a chair, a bowl of fruit and a violin; what else does a man need to be happy?” — Albert Einstein

Photo of the Day:
As part of a morning boat ride around the Bora Bora lagoon, Will, our captain pulled up anchor at a small island, smiled and said it was time to eat. He then proceeded to prepare an array of freshly picked fruit that would (and should) make any mouth water. Tahiti never tasted so good. This is what the spread looked like before it disappeared. Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

There are many reasons why we laugh and smile, and to be honest, we don’t laugh enough (the suggested quota is 15 laughs per day for optimal health). To complicate things, there are many different kinds of humor, including parody, satire, double entrendres, black humor, taboo humor, puns, sarcasm and irony. Two people can laugh at the same joke for entirely different reasons. Irony is described as the joining of two ideas or concepts that, when paired up, make us either scratch our heads or chuckle. Example: Years a go, legendary silent film actor Charlie Chaplin entered a Charlie Chaplin look-a-like contest. He got third place! On the surface, it may seem like there is not much to laugh at these days, but there is always irony (often in the headlines), and life is filled with plenty of it. Often times it’s the ironic humor that is hard to explain to others (some people call these kinds of laughs, “geographic jokes,” calling to mind the expression, you had to be there.”)

Stress Tip for the Day:
Take time to be part of your own geographic jokes. Be there… for your sense of humor. To do this you have to step outside yourself and look around at the world you live in. Look for incongruencies. Then smile. Work your funny bone. The word humor means moisture of fluid. It’s a great reminder to go with the flow. So find something ironic to laugh at today.

Link or Books Worth Noting:
Just back from vacation I didn’t have time to check out a good link, but this was waiting for me in an email. Enjoy! (and apologies up front to the people from Nashville).

These are Nashville , TN.’s REAL 911 Calls!

Dispatcher : 9-1-1 What is your emergency?
Caller: I heard what sounded like gunshots coming from the brown house on the corner.
Dispatcher: Do you have an address?
Caller: No, I have on a blouse and slacks, why?

Dispatcher: 9-1-1 What is the nature of your emergency?
Caller: I’m trying to reach nine eleven but my phone doesn’t have an eleven on it.
Dispatcher: This is nine eleven.
Caller: I thought you just said it was nine-one-one
Dispatcher: Yes, ma’am nine-one-one and nine-eleven are the same thing.
Caller: Honey, I may be old, but I’m not stupid.

Dispatcher: 9-1-1 What’s the nature of your emergency?
Caller: My wife is pregnant and her contractions are only two minutes apart
Dispatcher: Is this her first child?
Caller: No, you idiot! This is her husband!

Dispatcher: 9-1-1
Caller: Yeah, I’m having trouble breathing. I’m all out of breath.
Darn….I think I’m going to pass out.
Dispatcher: Sir, where are you calling from?
Caller: I’m at a pay phone. North and Foster.
Dispatcher: Sir, an ambulance is on the way. Are you an asthmatic?
Caller: No
Dispatcher: What were you doing before you started having trouble breathing?
Caller: Running from the Police.

Photo for the Day:
I found this photo in a card store. This is a great example of irony. Enjoy

Quote for the Day:
“Be different, like everybody else!” —anonymous graffiti

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

In an effort to walk the talk, this blog will be on hiatus until after the Labor Day weekend while I and the staff of Inspiration Unlimited are on holiday. Please come back and see us then. In the mean time, please feel free to browse through the backlist of blog entries. And if you can get away on vacation, leave the technology behind. It will be there when you get back.

We have several spots open for our 12th annual Mountain Retreat in Estes Park (Oct 15th-17th) and we would love to have you join us: A pdf brochure can be downloaded from the upcoming events page of www.brianlukeseaward.net: Come back home to Colorado!

Finally, I am happy to announce that the movie, Earth Songs was nominated for the Images and Voices of Hope award. The nomination is an honor itself. More details as they manifest.

Have a great rest of the summer!
Brian Luke Seaward

• Quote for the Day:
“I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, … for going out, I found, was really going in.” — John Muir

• Links or Books worth Noting:
This link was sent to me and it is definitely worth sharing.. it is a time lapse camera scene of a volcano mountain in Equador at night. Stay through till the end.

http://www.bing.com/videos/watch/video/amazing-scene-captured-over-volcano/2045skcn?from=en-us_msnhp&GT1=42007

• Photo of the Day:
A photo composite of a humpback whale and the NaPali coast of Kauai, Hawaii. Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

There are a great many coping techniques for stressful times; some effective, some ineffective (such as drinking, drugs and violence, for example). For a coping technique to be effective it should increase awareness of the problem and lead one down the path of resolution. Effective coping skills involve shifting the perception of “a threat” to something non-threatening. Prayer (also know as intention) in all its many forms, has been an effective coping technique since time began. Whether one offers words of thanks or cries for help, praying to someone or something bigger than ourselves offers a way to step outside the ego (stress), which after all, is what effective coping techniques are all about! Joseph Campbell noted in his study of stories and myths told over time, that there is what he called, the assistance of spiritual aids, whether they be angles, fairies, elves, gods, or perhaps some divine inner resources. Prayer is the hotline to the divine! As my friend, colleague and mentor Larry Dossey warns, “Be careful for what you pray for… you might just get it.” There has been much research (both pro and con) about the “effects” or out comes of prayer. But don’t put your faith (or skepticism) in somebody’s else’s work. Check it out this coping technique for yourself.

• Stress Tip For The Day
While everyone prays in their own way, are there better ways to pray?
Author Sophy Burnhan (A Book of Angels) offers a suggestion regarding prayer, which seems identical to what is taught in guided mental imagery:
1. Pray in the positive
2. Pray in the present moment
3. Offer thanks & gratitude
4. Detatch from the outcome
So today, consider this format during your next conversation with the Divine (whatever you conceive this to be), and while you’re at it, please put in a good healing request for the Gulf oil spill. Thanks!

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
These two links, while not about prayer, specifically, do bring into mind the concept of intention and healing. Enjoy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EDVxCexfgQ&feature=email

http://www.spiritualityandpractice.com/films/features.php?id=20046

• Quote for the Day:
“If your prayers aren’t answered, its not that God didn’t hear you. He just said NO!” — Anonymous

“How come when you talk to God its called prayer, but when God talks to you its called Schizophrenia?”— Lily Tomliln

• Photo of the Day:
While in Turkey this summer, one of our hosts gave me a set of prayer beads. As he placed these in my hands he smiled and said proudly that they had been to Mecca, ensuring their authentic connection to the divine. The last day of the trip was spent in Istanbul. This photo was taken of a man sitting by the spice bazaar using his prayers beads (also called “worry beads”).

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Not a day goes by where I don’t hear someone comment about how fast the world is changing. Technology grabs most of the attention (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc). Right behind technology, however, are environmental issues (e.g., the Gulf oil spill, global warming, over-fished oceans, etc.) and of course, our current economic issues. Which change, comes fear, and fear triggers the fight or flight (stress) response. Prolonged or chronic stress often manifests in rude, sarcastic, impatient, cynical and apathetic behavior. I once overheard a conversation suggesting that everyone is taking part in a “consentual hallucination.” Great phrase, and at times very accurate. Its hard to distinguish between the nightly news and entertainment. Politicians lie, constantly. Social etiquette seems to be a thing of the past. The good news is that we have a choice. We can either become/remain passive victims in a cruel world or take the high road and do our part to make the world a better place. In this day and age, this means unplugging regularly from the steady stream of ”cyberese” and move from a motivation of fear toward a motivation of love and compassion. In simple terms, its time to wake up!

• Stress Tip For The Day
Gandhi once said, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” He also said his life was his message. What message does your life broadcast to the world? Does your life portray a message of stress…or of compassion? Do you feel like you are a slave to technology rather than technology serving you? Stop and take a look at your life then start making a few subtle changes to be the change you wish to see around you.

• Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:
Over the weekend I went to go see the movie, Inception. While many went to see it regarding the twisted plot and ending, I went with a curiosity to see how the unconscious mind was portrayed. I recommend the movie, but know that corporate America, while not so invasive, already has the concept of “Inception” down really well in the American culture and they don’t need to enter your dreams to plant a message to buy their products.

• Quote for the Day:
“I get up every morning determined to both change the world and have one hell of a good time. Sometimes this makes planning my day difficult.” — E. B. White

Photo of the Day
It was a stunning full moon the other night over the Colorado Rockies! Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

A friend sent this to me a few days ago. I thought it was worth sharing.

If you can start the day without caffeine,
If you can always be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains,
If you can resist complaining and boring people with your troubles,
If you can eat the same food every day and be grateful for it,
If you can understand when your loved ones are too busy to give you any time,
If you can take criticism and blame without resentment,
If you can conquer tension without medical help,
If you can relax without liquor,
If you can sleep without the aid of drugs,
…Then You Are Probably The Family Dog!

• Stress Tip For The Day
Take life a little less seriously today and be inspired by our canine friends!

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Someone sent me a link to a website that had scores of photos of dog owners who dress their dogs up in 4th of July outfits. I couldn’t find that website this morning but the link below is equally as bad. Please don’t do this to your dog!

http://www.urlesque.com/2009/10/15/fw-why-dogs-dont-like-halloween/

• Quote for the Day:
“Outside of a dog, a book is man’s best friend. Inside of a dog it’s too dark to read.” — Grouch Marx

Photo of the Day:
While visiting Sanibel Island a few months ago, I got up early to watch the moon set over the ocean. I stayed and meditated on the beach. This photo was taken after my meditation.

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

I received an email from a friend of mine the other day. He was informing all his “friends” that to simplify his life, he was closing down his Facebook account. From now on, he said, he would welcome communication via emails, phone calls and snail mail. The END! No tweets! No Skype! No Facebook updates! No IM’s! His message was a clarion call to simplify his life. A recent story on NPR spoke of how people are feeling overwhelmed with all the information venues to communicate (and not getting much else done trying to keep up with it all). One expert suggested an “Internet Sabbath.” Various news reports confirm that people have really sloppy boundaries when going on vacation (hauling their blackberries, lap tops, cell phones, Ipads, etc.) just to stay “in touch.” Experts predict a huge backlash is coming with all this technology, and perhaps it has started. Technology isn’t bad, but we were never meant to be “plugged in” all the time. Technology becomes bad when one has an ego addiction to check in continually to get a fix on feeling accepted, updated, etc. Today people are having a difficult time being alone without a computer screen. The implications are not good. Time to simplify!

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Are you feeling stressed with all the means to communicate these days? Does your life seem more complicated now than it did 10 years ago? Do you spend more time with virtual friends and less (perhaps hardly any) with real friends and family? Time to makes some changes! Time to simplify your life! Time to instill some healthy boundaries, perhaps take a weekend Sabbath from the Internet, and/or unplug while going on vacation. Pick one area in your life today and simplify it!

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
A short Katie Couric interview about taking an internet Sabbath. Consider getting your weekends back and restoring your personal and or family life. Check it out!

http://cnettv.cnet.com/what-internet-sabbath/9742-1_53-50090604.html

• Quote for the Day:
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” — Leonardo da Vinci

“Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.” —Albert Einstein

Photo of the Day:
This photo was taken while on vacation up in the Canadian Rockies near Lake Louise. This lake is called Moraine Lake and looks even prettier in person. Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

As a child, my mother often read stories to me from Aesop’s Fables. One that comes to mind periodically when I hear various news stories is the fable of The Dog and the Bone. A quick review: A hungry dog finds a luscious bone and walks home proudly with the prize in his mouth. On the way home he sees a pond. Walking to the water’s edge, and not recognizing his reflection, he only focuses on the second, mouth-watering bone. In an effort to grab it and have two bones in his possession, he drops the one in his mouth in the water and it sinks, leaving him with no bones whatsoever. Greed is the ego’s desire for more; more of anything, but typically money and all things “material.” Greed is a fear-based thought process, and hence a stress-prone behavior. Greed often leaves others with less (and often not enough). Today’s news is filled with stories of greed, from the ENRON debacle to the banking industry (and near collapse of the economy), to politicians to multi-national corporations. The average person is no different. Under stress, greedy behavior can be observed in just about everybody. Given the status of the world today, greed is quite unbecoming. And given the choice between greed and altruism, there really is no choice. Finally, as the saying goes, “If money is the root of all evil, what is the root of money?” Could it be greed?

• Stress Tip For The Day
Are you perpetually keeping up with the Joneses? Stop and ask yourself how many times you have looked at the “second bone” with envy? Are you a fear-based thinker stuck in a financial survival mode of thinking that ends up sabotaging your best efforts, and perhaps losing clients, customers and friends in the process? Do you grab the steak and toss the bone to others? Count your blessings today (and every day) and recognized fear (and the greed it breeds) for what it is. Given something back today instead of taking something extra. Take the high road instead! It may be more work, but the views are great! Remember, greed is not a spiritual value!

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Every now and then it’s nice to remind ourselves of the works of luminaries who’s light guides the way for others. This link is a reminder that we too can walk the path of altruism, not greed:

http://www.opendemocracy.net/article/globalisation/mahatma_gandhi_s_achievement

• Quote for the Day:
“The greed of gain has no time or limit to its capaciousness. There is sufficiency in the world to satisfy every man’s need, but not every man’s greed.” —Mahatma Gandhi

Photo of the Day:
When my dog, Logan, heard that this entry included the story of a dog and his bone, he quickly picked up his bone and begged to have his photo taken (with no reflections). Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

The topic of death can bring about a lot of stress—specifically fear (even anger in some cases.) In fact, the fear of death is thought to be the “mother of all fears.” The topic of death brings about it much uncertainty, hence the fear of the unknown as well. One thing is certain; there is no escaping death, everyone had to deal with it— eventually. Despite this fact, people, by and large, tend to avoid the topic of death. There are even a great many stories and interesting movies on this theme. In America, death has become very sanitized. When someone dies, the body gets whisked away to a hospital or mortuary, often times never to be seen again (only the casket). A recent trip to Ireland revealed a whole different approach to death. The Irish (like many other cultures) embrace death. Rather than running from it, they see death as a natural part of the life cycle. We were told that the Irish wake is a celebration. Renowned psychiatrist, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross (the woman who was the catalyst for today’s hospice movement) developed her whole career teaching people about death and dying. “Death,” she said, ”is nothing to be afraid of. We must learn to embrace death, and in doing so, we embrace life.” Do you embrace death or do you run from it? Do you have a will (over 70 percent of Americans don’t)? Do your family members actually know your “last requests?” We many never have all the answers about death and the hereafter, but by learning to embrace death, indeed we learn to embrace life.

“We are all visitors to this time and place. We are just passing through. Our purpose here is to observe, to learn, to grow, to love, then we return home.”
—Aboriginal saying

• Stress Tip For The Day
Take a moment to write down your thoughts and feelings about death. Learn to recognize and then resolved any thoughts and feelings you may have about death and dying. Some people fear death so much that they never have a will drawn up. This in turn, causes a lot of stress for those left behind. So consider taking time to prepare a will, and a living will. There are some on-line services that can get you started (see below) or you can always call an estate planner who specializes in this service. This topic is bigger than one blog entry can every address, yet the topic of death is one that we need to face, not avoid.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
The following link may give you as start on making up your own will:
http://www.doyourownwill.com/

Elisabeth Kubler Ross was a friend, colleague and mentor of mine. I highly recommend her books including one of my favorites: On Life After Death.
Here is a website of her foundation:
http://www.ekrfoundation.org/store

• Quote for the Day:
“What am I going to do after I die? First I’m going into rehab. After that, I am taking a vacation.” — Jean Houston

Photo of the Day:
This photo was taken a few weeks ago while in Ireland, specifically on the Aran Island of Oirr. This tombstone was situated by a 1,000-year old church that had been nearly buried by sand. The Irish, like many cultures (including those in New Orleans), place members of the same family in the same grave (vertically).

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

We each have a dark (less than flattering) side that negatively influences our personalities and behavior. This dark side goes by many names, all of which are related to the ego. Carl Jung referred to the dark side of the ego as “The Shadow” and he advised us to tame the ego, not run from it or avoid it. His expression was to “embrace the shadow.” Embracing the shadow means to recognize our prejudices, our insecurities and our imperfections and work to resolve them. Only by doing this, he said, can we come to terms with our dark side and shed some light on it, thus evolving our consciousness and the soul growth process. While some people avoid their dark side (denial) others exploit it, as reflected in the commonly heard phrase by bosses: “I don’t have stress, I give stress (to people).” Embracing the shadow is a metaphor for moving from a motivation of fear toward a motivation of love and compassion. Shedding some light on the ego is but one way to “domesticate the ego” and finding the essential balance of inner peace in one’s life. In doing so, the beast sheds its ugly face and reveals the true beauty of the soul.

• Stress Tip For The Day
When describing ways to domesticate the ego, I usually come up short, that is, until I came across this passage written by Sam Levenson, and used by actor, Audrey Hepurn. It was read at her memorial service by her son Sean, and has since become known as:

Audrey Hepburn’s Beauty Tips
For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.
For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.
For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.
For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day.
For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.
People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anyone.
Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms. As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.”
— Sam Levenson

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Below are a few links to the words and works of Carl Jung on the topic of the Shadow:
http://hubpages.com/hub/Carl-Jung-and-the-Shadow-An-Introduction

http://psikoloji.fisek.com.tr/jung/shadow.htm

• Quote for the Day:
“When we must deal with problems, we instinctively resist trying the way that leads through obscurity and darkness. We wish to hear only of unequivocal results, and completely forget that these results can only be brought about when we have ventured into and emerged again from the darkness. But to penetrate the darkness we must summon all the powers of enlightenment that consciousness can offer.” —Carl G. Jung

Photo of the Day:
A sunset moment on the island of Captiva, Florida. Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

The truth is that stress can make liars out of all of us. Ask yourself this question, Why do people lie? Stated simply, people lie because of insecurities; unresolved feelings of anger (fight), fear (flight) or both. Freud might say that lying is a defense mechanism of the ego, and he’d be right. Children lie to get out of trouble. So do adults! Martha Stewart lied (perjury) and spent time in jail for it. We lie (big, small, black, white) because we are stressed, or in some cases trying to avoid stress (as in “white lies”), yet perhaps causing more stress down the road. Corporations lie. Politicians lie (some would say, all the time). They say what people want to hear, yet are we any different? To be honest with your thoughts and feelings is no small undertaking. Its a daily challenge. Some people are “brutally honest.” They have yet to learn the art of diplomacy. You can be honest and tactful. You can also be honest and funny (Chaucer was right when he said, “Many a truth be told in jest.”) Honesty and inner peace are not incongruent. To the contrary, they form a symbiotic relationship. Honesty seems to be a rare commodity these dsys, but it doesn’t have to be!

• Stress Tip For The Day
Take an honest look at your thoughts and feelings. Take an honest look at how you express yourself to others. Are your words coated in a film of anger, fear or both? Are you ever the diplomat when you speak your words honestly? Take steps to refine the art of diplomatic honesty, (one way is to attack issues, not people.) Honesty will serve you well in dealing with your own levels of stress today and every day.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
In searching the net for some links on honesty, I found this one and thought it was worth sharing… enjoy
http://www.exampleessays.com/viewpaper/88271.html

• Quote for the Day:
“Tell the truth, its easier to remember.” — Mark Twain

Photo of the Day:
This is one of my favorite photos from the Ireland trip that I just returned from last week. Our group had a magical experience (FYI: I am taking another group next year, same time, same theme). This is a photo of Slea Head beach on the Dingle Peninsula! With clear blue skies, the water was almost a Caribbean blue, and that’s no lie!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

There is no shortage of problems these days; the BP Gulf oil spill, global warming, economic woes, etc., etc… From an individual perspective, there is no shortage of personal problems either; childcare, mortgage payments, health issues, home improvements and so on. Every problem, however, has a solution. In fact, every problem has several solutions. Creativity is one of the greatest attributes on the human condition. Creativity isn’t a right brain activity; it’s a whole brain activity. It begins in the right brain, searching for ideas, combining possibilities, and playing with ideas. Then the left brain comes in and selects the best idea and then makes it happen. Imagination + Perspiration = success! The creative process is very liberating, and as such very empowering. But many people claim NOT to be creative, particularly under stress. Their egos get in the way of the creative process and they metaphorically paint themselves into a corner, claiming victimization. Creative problem solving is one of THE most powerful coping techniques for stress. The arc of creative problem solving begins with an idea, and ends with the celebration of the success of the idea. Remember: Imagination + Perspiration = Success!

• Stress Tip For The Day
What problems have been haunting you for the past several weeks? Chances are there are many viable solutions to your problem; solutions that can get you out of your rut and put you back on the road again. Pick a problem (e.g., what to make for dinner tonight, getting out of debt or finding a dog sitter while on vacation, etc.). Come up with at least five (5) viable ideas to help solve this problem. Also… think of one zany, off the wall idea. Then select the best idea and make it happen.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
There are two books I think should be issued to each human upon exiting the birth canal’ Roger von Oech’s A Whack on the Side of the Head and A Kick in the Seat of the Pants. These book on creativity should be required reading for everyone who has stress.

Speaking of problems, I was sent this link about the BP oil spill… and felt the need to pass it along. Please watch it.

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=138999366114177&ref=mf

• Quote for the Day:
“When I am working on a problem I never think about beauty. I only think about how to solve the problem. But when I have finished, if the solution is not beautiful, I know it is wrong.” —Buckminster Fuller

Photo of the Day:
PROBLEM: What do you do with mounds and mounds of snow? ANSWER: Have a snow carving festival! That’s what the people of Breckenridge decided to do and continue to do each year. This is one of the exhibits from the 2010 season (and given the heat wave on the east coast today, I though a little snow might ease the tension out there.) Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Are you feeling the pinch of techno-stress? This is the overwhelming sensation of being pulled in 10 different directions (including, but not limited to, cell phone calls, Facebook updates, Tweets, email avalanches, etc.… the list goes on and on.) Sensory bombardment is a given these days, but we do not have to be passive (perhaps addictive) victims in a cyber world. Last week Newsweek magazine had a list of several ways to bring balance back into one’s life starting with getting rid of one’s Smart phone. Technology isn’t bad, yet the overuse of sure is. And you can tell when people are pulled in different directions. They are impatient, rude, cynical, frazzled, sarcastic, fatigued, anxious, etc. etc. etc. There is an ancient Chinese proverb that say, “When the student is ready, the teacher will come.” The implied message is that we are both the student and the teacher. The teacher is a metaphor for the deep-seated wisdom that only reveals itself when the student (the conscious mind) is quiet. The mind cannot be quite when it’s pulled in ten different directions, or two for that matter. These days, navigating the world, cyber or otherwise, requires taking time to get the pupil ready.

• Stress Tip For The Day
Take time each day to sit quietly and focus on your breathing. Turn of the technology, close yours and only focus on one thing: your breathing. If your mind wanders (and most likely it will) bring it back to the sole focus of your breathing. This is but one way to get the pupil ready. Meditation or centering is not a religion, it’s a tool used world-wide for mental (and physical) homeostasis.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
There are hundreds of books out there on the topic of meditation and many many more that offer a focus or theme for the day, including 365 Tao, Earth Prayers, and The Promise of a New Day. Check out these books at your local bookstore and pick one up that speaks to you and use the designated passage for the recommended day as a stepping stone to your health.

• Quote for the Day:
“Meditation… it’s not what you think.” —Anonymous

Photo of the Day:
While on a business trip to Sanibel Island last spring, I befriend a woman name Heather who graciously posed for this photograph. Thanks Heather!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Sometimes… we become some myopic about our problems, so much so, that we cannot see anything else BUT the problem. Narrow vision, tunnel vision and blind spots are terms used to describe people who stay a little too close to the troubling issues at hand. Distance gives perspective. This is one reason why people take vacations… a chance to remove yourself from your existing situation long enough to get some breathing room and see things more clearly. Researchers have revealed that when people get stressed, they actually begin to lose their peripheral vision. Ancient mystics and contemporary wisdom keepers have a different name for this: “The veils of illusion;” thoughts and feelings that cloud our thinking and perpetuate the feelings of stress. Distance gives perspective.

• Stress Tip For The Day
Are you positioned a little too close to your problem(s). Try backing up several steps (literally and symbolically) to put some distance between you and it. Just be sure to come back. Some people start to give themselves some distance and then end up walking in the opposite direction (remember, avoidance is not a healthy coping technique for stress.) How would your problem look from the perspective of a poor child in India, an alien from the planet Zzorb, a Tibetian monk in Lhasa? Consider giving yourself some distance to your problems today.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Singer, Eva Cassidy died much too soon. Her voice brings to mind the choirs of angels, and I know I am not alone in thinking this. Here is a link where she sings John Lennon’s Imagine, a wisdom keeper who got the concept of “From a Distance.” Enjoy this link.

http://videos.bloggeti.com/eva-cassidy-imagine.html

• Quote for the Day:
“Come fairies, take me out of this dull world, for I would ride with you upon the wind and dance upon the mountains like a flame!” — William Butler Yeats

Photo of the Day:
The Spirit of Ireland Trip was nothing less than magical and indeed everyone who went shared how the trip was a life-changing experience—Everyone! The Irish are such great hosts. (Thanks Tom, Brendan and Paddy), and this was complemented by the great weather (unreal in Ireland), the fabulous food (really!) the incredible sacred sites we visited, etc. etc. etc. … I could go on and on.. This photo was taken at the beach where the movie, Ryan’s Daughter was filmed in the 1970’s. Plans are underway to return to the Emerald Isle next summer solstice, so if you are interested, please mark your calendars.

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

The Spirit of Ireland Adventure begins June 16th and we who are traveling across the Atlantic are so excited. I will facilitating a Celtic Spirituality workshop on the Emerald Isle till the end of June and hence will continue this blog upon my return. Till then…
“May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of his hand.”

Photo of the Day:
This is an image I took while touring the Ring of Kerry with my sister, Gail, several years ago. Enjoy!

Quote for the Day:

An Old Irish Blessing

May the sun always shine
on your window pane,

May a rainbow be certain
to follow each rain,

May the hand of a friend
always be near you,

May God fill your heart
with gladness to cheer you,

May your blessings be many
to the sunshine above you

May your life bring you gladness
and always, God love you.

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Pictured above are three white substances that Americans have a voracious addiction to: Sugar, bleached flour and salt. This, along with coffee, have become the four major food groups in the American diet (smile). Nutritionists refer to these four substances as cornerstones to the Standard American Diet (also known as SAD, and sad it is). These substances are quite common in processed foods, junk foods, comfort foods and fast foods; basically the foods people grab when pressed for time or stressed-out emotionally. By and large these types of foods are classified as empty calories because they contain no nutritional value. Research continues to reveal that not only do these foods contribute to weight gain, they also are associated with hypertension (particularly salt) and a suppressed immune system (primarily sugar). Having just returned from a trip to Turkey, I was frequently asked what was my most surprising find? Like others, I immediately noticed that there are few, if any, obese people in Turkey, (it was a culture shock coming back through O’Hare airport!). And while Turkey’s culinary desserts, such as Baklava, were indeed sweet, every dinner was complete with an encore of fresh fruit. Cravings for foods of the “white powder” kind can often reveal an imbalance (e.g., sugar cravings may indicate a poor intestinal flora balance resulting in Candida). For better health and longevity, consider quitting your addiction to white powder!

• Stress Tip(s) for the Day:
Do you have an addiction to white powder? How is your consumption of table sugar or salt? Do you crave baked goods that come in easy-to-open packages? Here is a test: Try giving up all things processed sugar for the next 30 days (the typical length of time for a addiction recovery period). When eating out at restaurants, avoid using table salt. Typically restaurants use high amounts of salt in the preparation of food; you don’t need to add to this. Whole wheat is always the best option over bleached flour, and fresh fruits and veggies are the preferred choice for nutrient dense foods.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
This link has absolutely nothing to do with the topic of today’s blog, but I was so impressed with this I just felt compelled to pass it along, if for no other reason, its fun to watch, and it’s a good message. Enjoy!
http://www.fastmediamagazine.com/archives/6945?utm_source=Fast+Media+magazine+newsletter&utm_campaign=28e935759f-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email

• Quote for the Day:
“The bottom line is that sugar upsets the body chemistry and suppresses the immune system. The stronger the immune system the easier it is for the body to fight infectious and degenerative diseases.” —Nancy Appleton, Ph.D., author, Licking the Sugar Habit

• Photo of the Day:
White powder substances are found in nearly every home and perhaps worse, found in so many fast foods, junk foods, processed foods and comfort foods that can lead to serious health related issues.

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Metaphorically speaking, we all have buttons of the emotional kind, and not a day goes by that these buttons don’t get pushed by someone or something. Having your buttons “pushed” is a euphemism for getting angry; usually by something or someone we cannot control. Traffic, politics, in-laws, the weather… the reasons are endless. One aspect of creative anger management is the concept of tolerance: the ability to accept something as it is, or someone as they are. A quick look at the headlines and one can easily see that tolerance is in short supply today. In fact, an expression, “Zero Tolerance” is often used by people who are adamant about their beliefs and opinions. When the practice of zero tolerance is used in conjunction with illegal drugs, murder, etc. this is most acceptable. However, when the attitude of zero tolerance is used regarding differences in lifestyles, religious beliefs, eating habits, and such, what you are seeing is a person who feels threatened and is under stress. Metaphorically speaking, ALL of their buttons are pushed. Acceptance is one of the strongest coping techniques for stress, yet its also one of the hardest to implement, when the ego is running the show.

• Stress Tip(s) for the Day:
Take a look at the emotional control panel of your life today. What tends to push your buttons? Ask yourself, what do you feel intolerant of these days, and being completely honest with yourself, then dig deeper to ask yourself why? People often act as mirrors for ourselves. It has been said that quite often, those things we don’t like about others (or cannot accept about others) are the same qualities that we don’t like in ourselves (Freud called this defense mechanism “projection”.) Take a good look at yourself today, but taking a good look at others and begin the art of acceptance.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
In searching the web for some additional links to the topic of tolerance and acceptance, it was astonished to see so many rants. Here is one link I thought was worth reading.

http://stayathomeparents.suite101.com/article.cfm/teaching_children_tolerance_and_acceptance

• Photo of the Day:
While in Istanbul last week, I, like so many other visitors, went to several of the city’s notable sights and tourist attractions. While it is not uncommon to see women wearing head scarves in Istanbul (this being a Muslim country and all) this group of tourists caught my eye. Enjoy.

• Quote for the Day:
“Tolerance is the virtue of the man without convictions.” — G. K. Chesterton
“I have learned silence from the talkative, tolerance from the intolerant, and kindness from the unkind; yet strangely, I should not be ungrateful to these teachers” — Kahlil Gibran

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

What does it take to obtain world peace? This is THE million dollar question! This very question was posed to myself and a group of citizen diplomats invited to Turkey last month. We were invited as a delegation of “peace ambassadors” to bridge the worlds where East literally meets West—Istanbul; the crossroads of civilization. World peace begins with leaving the comfort zones of your culture and exploring the cultures (e.g., food, music, religion, politics, history, etc.) of others. “World travel,” it is said, “is one of the best forms of education!” Yet travel isn’t enough to invoke world peace. A critical factor of world peace is dialogue; a sacred space among people where thoughts and feeling are shared, similarities are honored and differences are respected… or at least accepted. As the saying goes, “Changing the world is an inside job!” To create a sacred space for dialogue, one must first lower one’s defenses (also known as keeping an open mind and personal stress not only closes the mind, it often puts a lock on it! ) To create a sacred space for dialogue, one must also disarm the ego; its most powerful skill includes judgment/prejudice (of others looks, accents, belief systems, etc.) In essence, world peace begins with inner peace; coming to terms (cultivating an inner dialogue) with one’s own shortcomings, opinions, prejudices and insecurities. Making peace with oneself is the first criteria for world peace!

• Stress Tip(s) for the Day:
How open is your mind these days? Does your level of personal stress eclipse the opportunity for new ideas, new experiences, even new relationships with people who look different, talk different and think differently than yourself? Do you take time to regularly domesticate your ego and cultivate inner peace within yourself? Are you able to create a sacred space for dialogue with others of different nationalities, religions, and ethnic backgrounds in which to listen, share and learn? Whether you know it or not, you too, are a citizen diplomat and peace ambassador! Consider stepping outside your “cultural box” today and initiate a dialogue with people outside your social network of friends and family. No one ever said world peace was easy, yet everyone agrees its necessary, perhaps more so now than ever before! The next step is yours!

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
The link below will direct you to a special group of luminaries in Turkey who hold a light for world peace. Please take a moment to visit this site and learn more about what groups of people around the world are doing to hold a sacred space for dialogue.

http://en.fgulen.com/press-room/news/3464-journalists-and-writers-foundation-dialogue-is-the-major-goal

• Photo of the Day:
On my last day in Istanbul, our guides took us to the famed Blue Mosque, so named for the exquisit blue tiles that grace the second floor. Commissioned hundreds of years ago by a Sultan at the age of 16, the Blue Mosque, with six minarets, has become one of the iconic symbols of Istanbul. It is situated on the European side of the city, adjacent to the Hagia Sofia, a former cathedral (built by Emperor Constantine around the year 400 A.D.), former mosque (at the start of the Ottoman Empire) and now historic museum. And.. if you ever get the chance, consider a vacation trip to Turkey. The hospitality, food, culture, history and sights are beyond compare!

• Quote for the Day:
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” —M. Gandhi

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

My best selling book, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, was translated into Turkish last year. Early in January I was invited by the Amity Turkish Cultural Center in Jacksonville, FL to join a group of high profile Americans on a cultural exchange to Turkey. We leave May 27th and return June 7th. The trip promises to be a cultural and spiritual adventure. Included in the trip’s itinerary are visits to Cappadocia, Ephesus, and the famed poet, Rumi’s home town, Istanbul, performing whirling dirvishes, sight see among many world heritage sites, and in my case, speaking on the topic of stress and spirituality. As such, this blog will be on sabbatical for the duration of the trip… see you all after June 7th.

Links/Books Worth Noting:
Check out this link to the Amity Turkish Cultural Center
http://atccenter.org/toturkey/

Quote for the Day:
“The breezes at dawn have secrets to tell you…. don’t go back to sleep.” —Rumi

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

It’s an old joke, but perhaps worth repeating. Denial isn’t just a river in Egypt! Freud spent decades observing people’s thoughts and came up with a long list of what he called “defense mechanisms,” the ego’s way to cope with stress! Defense mechanisms, he noted, are done unconsciously; we are not even aware that we are using them. The purpose he said, was twofold: To decrease pain and increase pleasure to the ego. Topping the list of these coping skills is DENIAL. Young kids about to get spanked are quick to yell out, “I didn’t do it.” BP seems to be in denial about the amount of oil gushing to the surface of the Gulf of Mexico. Alcoholics deny their drinking problems. Congressmen and preachers deny their sexual orientation—until caught in the act! (Politicians make such great examples of Freud’s theories of psychology!); the list of examples is nearly endless. In the short term, denial may serve as a means of protection, in the long run, however, it spells disaster, because it allows the individual to attemt to postpone/avoid the inevitable. This is metaphorically described as “falling asleep.” Eventually we all have to wake up!

• Stress Tip(s) for the Day:
Metaphorically speaking, are you asleep? Are you hiding something behind a defense mechanism? Are you denying a truth about yourself or the world you live in that needs addressing and resolution? As Dear Abby often said, “it’s time to wake up and smell the coffee.” And she’s right. All stress needs resolution and the sooner the better.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
If you are interested in further reading on this topic, here is a link to more insights:
http://psychology.jrank.org/pages/165/Defense-Mechanisms.html

• Quote for the Day:
“The worst lies are the lies we tell ourselves. We live in denial of what we do, even what we think. We do this because we’re afraid. We fear we will not find love, and when we find it we fear we’ll lose it. We fear that if we do not have love we will be unhappy.” — Richard Bach

• Photo of the Day:
Never having been to Egypt, I have no photos of the Nile River, but here is a photo of a Gulf coast island (I think Alabama, but it could be Miss too) just days before the oil spill, as I was flying from Houston to Ft. Meyers, FL. Enjoy (and while your at it, please say a prayer that this oil disaster is resolved quickly).

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (6E). He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.