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Brian Luke Seaward

Mar 10
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Brain Freeze in the Information Age!

By Uncategorized 2 Comments

Recently Michael has been no stranger to headaches. They come every day, usually right before lunch, sometimes much early. It’s not that his eyes that are tired, or that he’s hungry. It’s his mind. It’s over-saturated with information. Sitting in front of a computer screen, one hand on a smart phone, and an Ipad within arm’s reach, the circuits of his brain are simply maxed out, resulting in repeated bouts of “cognitive meltdown.” That’s when the tension headaches appear. Michael is not alone. For others, however, the backwash of sensory overload shows up through different physical maladies including TMJ, migraines, lower back pain, or repeated colds, (the association between stress and disease is colossal, and well documented.) Cognitive meltdown, also referred to as ‘cognitive paralysis,” begins with poor attention span, but quickly moves to poor memory, poor decision making, poor reaction time and even chronic bouts of insomnia. Research reveals that chronic stress such as this, is not good for brain cells. Simply stated: chronic stress ages brain tissue.

While it’s true that the mind craves stimulation, it also necessitates downtime where there is no stimulation, hence allowing time to process bits of necessary information and make sense of it all. This after all, is one purpose of meditation—clear thinking. It’s fair to say that the fascination, if not addiction, with “screen time” has become a new form of stress: sensory bombardment coupled with information overload. Never before in our lifetimes have we been inundated with so much information. This bounty of facts, figures, opinions, perceptions and beliefs, all within a few keystrokes or mouse clicks is taking its toll, not only on personal health but ultimately quality of work productivity as well.

Eric Clapton got it right with his CD titled, Unplugged. We should all take his suggestion to heart. Unplugging from technology regularly and giving the mind a chance to process, unwind and problem solve is essential for optimal health and well-being. Another term to describe being unplugged, is “healthy boundaries,” a premium stress management coping technique. So establish a healthy boundary with technology. Dedicate time away from the computer, smart phone, and other e-gadgets. Make a habit of engaging in physical exercise (without the Nano Ipad). Your brain and most likely your friends will thank you.

Stress Tip for the Day:
Please, don’t become roadkill on the information super highway. Take time to unplug from screen time so as to allow your unconscious mind a chance to process what information you have been absorbing. And while you are at, take time to sit quietly and meditate each day to cleanse your mind. You’re brain will thank you. So will your friends and family.

Links/Books/ Movies Worth Noting:
See if you can get your hands on the March 7th edition of Newsweek. The cover story, Brain Freeze is well worth reading.

Quote for the Day:
“ I finally get meditation… It’s like deleting old emails.” —8th grader, HealthQuest Program Sunset Middle School

Photo for the Day:
When most people think brain freeze, they think eating icecream too fast. I didn’t have a photo of any icecreame, but I do have lots of photos of icebergs…from Greenland. 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.

Mar 07
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In Search of the Blue Pearl

By Stress and Meditation No Comments

Like so many others many years ago, I too read the book, Eat Pray Love (and then saw the movie). I was particularly interested with the mention of the “blue pearl” that the author, Liz Gilbert, was invited to “find.” The blue pearl, of course, is a metaphor for purity of thought, intuition and divine insight. The blue pearl is found when one masters the art of meditation (increased concentration that leads to increased awareness). While the blue pearl may be metaphoric in nature, it is best represented by the pineal gland, a pea size organ located in the center of the brain. And…while physiologists know that the pineal gland is responsible for creating melatonin, there is much left unexplained of its nature. Rene Descartes (Mr. I think, therefore I am) attributed the pineal gland as the place where the soul resides within us. And while it’s actual color is more red than blue, since it has a neural connection to the eyes in terms of light (also known as the third eye), the color associated with the pineal is blue. (Note: some mystics associate the pineal gland with the crown chakra, too). The search for the blue pearl, the rarest of all pearls, is an inside job. In the words of one mystic: Meditation on the Soul is very powerful. The essence of this spiritual practice is to concentrate and be aware of the “seed of consciousness” or the “blue pearl” at the center of the head, and eventually become one with the higher soul. – Master Choa Kok Sui,

Stress Tip for the Day:
The next time you meditate, place particular attention on the center of your head (between your ears.) In your mind’s eye picture a vibrant blue light emanating from this tiny organ of the brain, the pineal gland. In your mind’s eye create the color blue and let it surround your head. If you can image that blue light enters your eyes, directly toward the pineal gland. In this day and age of multiple distractions, taking time to connect with and cultivate your inner awareness is always a great idea. This meditation theme makes no promises of greater intuitive skills to pick the next winning lottery number, rather it is a clarion call to cultivate a regular meditation practice in which to cultivate a senses of inner peace.

Links/Books/ Movies Worth Noting:
If you haven’t read Eat Pray Love, I highly recommend it. More than just “ Chick Lit” it is a story of the hero’s journey. For those of you who are familiar with my concept of the Seasons of the Soul”, consider this: Italy (the Centering process), India (the Emptying Process), Indonesia (The Grounding Process) and the book itself, the telling of the story (the Connecting process). I also highly recommend seeing the movie. And if you ever get a chance to hear Liz Gilbert in person, you will be glad you did.

Quote for the Day:
“… a brilliant blue light, the size of a tiny seed, that appears to the meditator whose energy has been awakened. The Blue Pearl is the subtle abode of the inner Self. ” — Swami Muktananda

Photo for the Day:
Sometimes symbolic images make for great teaching tools, so I searched around the house for a couple of items that I could photograph for today’s blog entry. Perhaps by sheer coincidence, the shadows of the image gives an image of an eye. 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.

Mar 04
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Ten Reasons to Join Us in Ireland

By Uncategorized No Comments

The unofficial countdown has begun for the Spirit of Ireland Journey in 2011. We pride ourselves on an authentic experience of the true Irish/Celtic traditions. What makes this trip different than most is that this journey isn’t just a vacation to a pretty place, it’s a calling to offer healing energies, healing intentions, prayers and compassion at various sacred sites on the Emerald Isle for environmental stability and world peace while at the same time establishing lifelong friendships with people of like mind and hearts. Not to mention this is a culturally rich experience, par excellence! When people share a unique experience such as this, not only do reciprocal personal healings occur, but bonds of friendship form that last a lifetime. We have 3 spots left to round out our special group of 22. The final payment deadline is March 30th. For many reasons that time/space won’t allow, most likely this may be our last group trip of this type. If you are tempted to join us, this is the year!

Here are some GREAT reasons to consider joining us in Ireland:
1. We have two (2) private musical house concerts with some of the most revered folk musicians in all of Ireland gracing the stage.

2. A night of cultural entertainment awaits us as we take our seats in the Natural Folk Theater for a production of Conn Lirr, a Riverdance/swan lake type fairytale of epic proportions.

3. We have a whole day with spiritual luminary P. J. Curtis (close friend and colleague of the late John O’Donohue) who will share his remarkable knowledge of Celtic spirituality, lore, and wisdom.

4. A trip to the beloved Aran Island or Innishmere (weather permitting), something even most natives haven’t done.

5. A trip to Skellig Michael, an Island sanctuary and the beginning of the Archangel Michael Ley-line (weather permitting) with a special healing ceremony.

6. Not only a tutorial on beginning photography, but you will receive a CD-Rom of 40 professional photographs of the Southwest Region of Ireland to use as screensavers or prints.

7. Three (3) music CD’s containing many of my favorite Celtic/Irish songs (and I have quite the extensive library of Celtic music!)

8. Each person will receive an autographed Doors of Ireland poster from…yours truly.

9. A chance to experience authentic, live Irish music in several local pubs, and try your hand at singing a song (or reciting a poem, if you wish).

10. If you are looking for a way to make a difference in the world, joining a group of like-minded healers is one way to unite these efforts for the common good of humanity.

11. Be forever changed and enlightened as a “peace ambassador” for the world.

Notable Links:
For more information, please cut and paste the link below into a browser:
http://www.brianlukeseaward.net/tripstoireland.html

Quote for the Day:
“There is a quiet light that shines in every heart…the gift of the world is our first blessing” — John O’Donohue

Photo for the Day:
Today’s photo is a scene of perhaps the most famous stone circles in Ireland, The Drombeg stone circle, a neolithic site created to honor the winter solstice, a site we will visit while in Ireland. Not as big as Stonehenge in England, but in its own way, equally impressive.

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.

Mar 03
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The Assistance of Spiritual Aids

By Uncategorized No Comments

What does Glenda, the good witch of the North (Wizard of Oz), Father Christmas (The Lion The Witch and the Wardrobe) Yodo (Star Wars) and Gandalf (Lord of the Rings) all have in common? Renowned mythologist, Joseph Campbell, in describing his template for the hero’s journey, highlighted the significant aspect: The Assistance of Spiritual Aids! No matter who we are, where we are going or what we are doing, we are never alone. We are always in the presence of a team of divine guardians to help us—whenever called upon to do so. Psychologist Carl Jung also found this to be true, so much so that he had the following words carved in stone over his front door, “Called or not, the gods are here.” Author Sam Levenson said it like this, “Walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.” Stressful times can certainly make us feel abandoned or disconnected. While we are always connected to our divine source (whatever you conceive this to be), it is unresolved issues of anger and fear that cloud our metaphorical vision to make us feel isolated and cut off. It is the ego, in moments of weakness, that perpetuates the belief of separation, abandonment, even punishment. As the expression goes, There is no I in the word teamwork.

Stress Tip for the Day:
Never deny yourself the opportunity to ask for help from the unseen world in whatever way your faith supports. One way to ensure that the assistance of spiritual aids is received is to “domesticate” the ego, and one of the best ways to do this is by adopting a regular meditation practice. Learn to tame the ego, who’s negative voice often drowns out the voice of reason, when stressed. Take time to cultivate a relationship with the divine, whatever you choose to call this, whatever you perceive this to be. And….Let the force be with you!

Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:
One of the most remarkable books I have ever read is the book, SOUTH, by Ernest Shackleton, the captain of the ill-fated ship, The Endurance. Forced to abandon this ship due to ice floes near Antarctica , Shackleton and his crew were able to survive 2 years of frozen hell. How, do you ask? Read his account in his autobiography, SOUTH, but here is a tip: He will be the first person to tell you he didn’t do it alone. He had divine assistance.

Quote for the Day:
“Some of my best friends don’t have bodies.” —Ram Dass

Photo for the Day:
Capturing a photo of guardian angels and spirit guides has appeared elusive to me so far (are they camera shy?) Some people suggest that orbs that show up in digital cameras are traces of the angelic realm. Who knows? Instead, I would like to share a photo of the Milky Way I took last fall in Tahiti. It’s a BIG Universe….

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.

Feb 28
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Chew Yer Food!

By stress acid reflux behavioral changes No Comments

There is an epidemic of heartburn these days, and although on one hand, there is much to be upset about, the source of this health problem is found within. While there are many causes of acid reflux, the primary reason is that so many people swallow their food WITHOUT chewing. The mouth, specifically the teeth and saliva, begins the digestion process before the “foodstuff” (an actual nutrition term) is passed down into the stomach where the remainder of digestion primarily takes place. The stomach secretes hydrochloric acid to break down these food particles (particularly proteins), but if the food you consume is inhaled, whizzing gently by the teeth, then the stomach has to secrete much more acid and here is where problems ensue. Interestingly, when questioned, some people indicate that chewing in front of others doesn’t look “polite”. Others say that swallowing, rather than chewing, makes holding a conversation easier. Still others say they don’t have time! The consequence of repeated bouts of acid reflux can burn the lining of the throat and even the mouth. Speculation suggests that acid reflux may be a precursor to throat cancer. Stress is a precursor to poor eating habits. The take home message is this: Chew your food before swallowing (experts recommend 20 bites before swallowing). Chewing your food also allows you to actually taste it, something the Slow Food Movement highly recommends.

Stress Tip for the Day:
Do you suffer from heartburn, more commonly knows as acid reflux? Have you ever woken at night to a backwash of acid moving up from your stomach? If so, are you aware of how well you chew your food? Wolfing down food is just another symptom of a stressed society, where people feel they cannot afford the time to eat a relaxing meal. Instead they multitask, shortchanging their health! Not Good! Eating on the run (including inhaling your food) may seem convenient, but in the long run, it may be just one more factor leading to an early demise. There are also some foods to avoid like chocolate (see links worth noting below ). Even if you don’t suffer from acid reflux, it’s always a good idea to chew all the food you place in your mouth. Physicians are all too quick to write an Rx, but please consider some alternatives. In addition to chewing your food, there is a great herbal remedy (from Gaia Herbs) called Relfux Relief (I make no money promoting this product!)

Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:
Acid Reflux, obviously, is a lot more complicated than space here allows to explain, which is why I wanted to include some links with more information:

http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=fightdz&dbid=14
http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/foods-that-cause-acid-reflux/
http://www.rodale.com/topic/acid-reflux

Quote for the Day:
“I would like to find a stew that will give me heartburn immediately, instead of at three o clock in the morning. ” — John Barrymore

Photo for the Day:
Based on today’s theme it seemed only fitting today to have a photo of wolves. Wolves are great to look at, but please, don’t imitate their eating behaviors (wink).

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.

Feb 24
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The Art of Subtraction: Good Time Management Skills

By Life coaching skills, Time Management No Comments

With the waves of technology hitting our personal shores there are so many things that can “steal” our attention and precious time. Yes, it’s fun to see what’s been posted on YouTube or Facebook. Yes, answering emails has become a chore. Yes, the new Ipad is a sensation (particularly with color), but all of these activities take time, and there is only so much time in the day. No app is ever going to change this. It has been suggested that these e-toys are so alluring that people are taking them to bed to play/use. Despite all the advances of technology, one thing that technology hasn’t done is add more hours to the day. We still only have 24 hours, 8 of which we are essential for sleep. People, in an effort to have more screen time, are shaving off minutes, even hours off of precious sleep time. Not Good! One of the first rules in time management is to see where precious time is slipping away. Experts call these acts, “time robbers,” because they steal quality time away from family, friends, jobs, marriages and personal time. Procrastination, while still a time robber, has taken a back seat to tech time (also known as screen addictions). Life imitates art as people become cast members of TRON falling into cyberspace and not being able to get back out easily. The art of subtraction suggests to start cutting back on those things that steal time away from you each day. Rather than adding something new to the mix and feeling choked at the end of the day, be emboldened to subtract something that is stealing time from your life and quality of life.

Stress Tip for the Day:
Time to start subtracting. What are your time robbers? Who are your time robbers (yes, they can be people too!) The average person watches 20-30 hours of television a week (that’s almost a full time job!) Do you multitask (eat dinner while checking email or talk on the phone while surfing the Internet)? Take inventory of your life and see what are the real time robbers in your life. The make a plan to create heathly boundaries to pull the reins in on your life.

Links/Books/ Movies Worth Noting:
There is no shortage of information on the webs about time management.
Here is one of many links:
www.uic.edu/orgs/wisest/initiatives2/…/Time%20management%20tips.pdf

Quote for the Day:
“I am definitely going to take a course on time management… just as soon as I can work it into my schedule.” – Louis E. Boone

Photo for the Day:
Not a photo, but a powerful image of trying to control time. 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.

Feb 21
Love1

Lyme Disease and Stress

By Lyme disease and stress One Comment

On a recent trip to Burlington, Vermont, I happen to reunite with a friend I hadn’t seen in about 20 years. After smiles and a bear hug, we sat down to talk and got caught up on our lives. “Stress,” she said, “Boy do I know stress!” I quickly learned how my friend’s life had been consumed with an assortment of maladies. In an effort to get to the bottom of the problem, she was sent to a Lyme Disease specialist in Connecticut (smart move). In a matter of days the diagnosis came back positive. Lyme Disease, a bacterial infection thought to be carried and transmitted by deer tics, can mimic a great many health related problems, including fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis and a great many others. In fact, Lyme Disease is called “the great imitator disease.” Having Lyme Disease is VERY stressful! While your body is fighting this bacterial infection, unrelenting waves of fatigue are draining to mind, body and spirit. It can become a vicious cycle, because stress (specifically cortisol) can decrease the efficiency of the immune system, thereby making it harder to combat and rectify the problem. According to Dr. Mercola’s website, Lyme Disease can be spread by mosquitoes and other insects, not just deer tics. Lyme Disease is now recorded in nearly all 50 states.

Stress Tip of the Day:
Do you feel lethargic and don’t know why? If you have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, rheumatoid, Crones Disease, arthritis or any other disease that involves aches and pains (or if you know of anyone who has), consider having a test done for Lyme disease. Since Lyme disease is extremely “under reported” it’s likely that your physician may not think to test for it, unless you ask. Even then, consider finding an expert on Lyme Disease (starting with physicians in Connecticut, who know this disease well).

Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:
Information is your best asset in learning what may be the cause of a specific ailment. The Internet is chock-full of information. Here are some recommended web sites.
http://www.medicinenet.com/lyme_disease/article.htm
http://www.canlyme.com/patsymptoms.html
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2001/07/25/lyme-disease-part-two.aspx

Quote for the Day:
“It is not a rare disease, it is epidemic. It is not just tick-borne; it can also be transmitted by other insects, including fleas, mosquitoes and mites — and by human-to-human contact. Neither is Lyme usually indicated by a bull’s-eye rash; this is found in only a minority of cases. And, except when it is diagnosed at a very early stage, Lyme is rarely cured by a simple course of antibiotics. Finally, Lyme is not just a disease that makes you “tired and achy” — it can utterly destroy a person’s life and ultimately be fatal.” — Dr. Mercola

Photo for the Day:
It seemed only natural to include a photo of a deer today since the primary carriers for Lyme disease are thought to be deer tics. From what little research I have uncovered, this disease was initially diagnosed in Lyme, CT, hence the name, though cases have been reported in all 50 states. This mule deer was photographed outside my front door last year.

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.

Feb 17
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Thursday Morning Humor

By Uncategorized No Comments

In a stress filled world, people can take themselves WAY too seriously. Every now and then it’s important to add some humor to the mix and lighten one’s emotional load. Here are some jokes to get you on your way. Enjoy!

This is the bell curve of life:
At age 4 success is… not peeing in your pants
At age 12 success is…. having friends
At age 16 success is…. having a driver’s license
At age 20 success is…. having sex
At age 30 success is…. having money
At age 50 success is…. having money
At age 60 success is…. having sex
At age 70 success is…. having a driver’s license
At age 75 success is…. having friends
At age 80 success is…. not peeing in your pants!

A lesson in high finance
A gentleman walks into a bank in New York City and asks for the loan
officer. He says he is going to Europe on business for two weeks and
needs to borrow $5,000.

The bank officer says the bank will need some kind of security for such a loan. So the gentleman hands over the keys to a new Rolls Royce parked on the street in front of the bank. Everything checks out, and the bank agrees to accept the car as collateral for the loan. An employee drives the Rolls into the bank’s underground garage and parks it there.

Two weeks later, the gentleman returns, repays the $5,000 and the interest, which comes to $15.41. The loan officer says, “We are very happy to have had your business, and this transaction has worked out very nicely, but we are a little puzzled. While you were away, we checked you out and found that you are a multimillionaire. What puzzles us is why would you bother to borrow $5,000?” The gentleman replied, “Where else in New York can I park my car for two weeks for 15 bucks?”

No $#%! Sherlock!
“Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson go on a camping trip. After a good dinner, they retire for the night, and go to sleep.

Some hours later, Holmes wakes up and nudges his faithful friend. “Watson, look up at the sky and tell me what you see.”

“I see millions and millions of stars, Holmes” exclaims Watson.

“And what do you deduce from that?”

Watson ponders for a minute.

“Well, astronomically, it tells me that there are millions of galaxies and potentially billions of planets. Astrologically, I observe that Saturn is in Leo. Hourologically, I deduce that the time is approximately a quarter past three. Meteorologically, I suspect that we will have a beautiful day tomorrow. Theologically, I can see that God is all powerful, and that we are a small and insignificant part of the universe. What does it tell you, Holmes?”

Holmes replied: “Watson, you idiot, it means that somebody stole our tent.”

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Try and find one thing humorous today… and every day! If these jokes didn’t do the trick, you can start with these two video clips below…

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Here are some links to some funny video clips. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vx6i4G7LfM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_MaJDK3VNE&feature=player_embedded

• Quote for the Day:
“Don’t knock on death’s door. Ring the door bell and run like hell. He hates that.” —Anonymous

• Photo of the Day: I took this photo while on a trip to Turkey last summer, outside the entrance to the ancient Greek city of Ephesus (I think they’re missing a comma!) 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.

Feb 16
Love0

Earth Songs Documentary Wins Award

By Uncategorized No Comments

I am elated to announce that Earth Songs received the Award of Excellence at the Indie Fest of 2010. The statue arrived in the mail today. Much better than a statue, however, are some of the accolades from viewers of Earth Songs that I would like to share with you.

For those of you in the Boulder area, there will be a command performance screening on April 8th with live music from some of the musicians who recorded tracks for the films score, (contact me for details at brianlukes@cs.com)

“Dear Luke, Thank you so much for this beautiful Earth Songs DVD. I am really enjoying it. As a stage IV cancer patient, it brings me lots of healing and relaxation.” —Sue, Q.

“Dr. Seaward, I thought you might like to know that Earth Songs Meditation is included as part of our Wounded Warriors program with the US Army and extremely well received among soldiers with PTSD and TBI. On behalf of the US ARMY, thank you very much for this wonderful Rx for relaxation.” — Roddy S.

“Hi Brian – I am a hospice volunteer and do Comfort Touch for patients and their families. It is gentle touch of the hands and feet. Recently my patient’s wife played your DVD “Earth Songs” during our Comfort Touch session. She indicated it was being played in hospitals and for hospice. He speaks very little. My patient was totally mesmerized with the DVD. He watched the DVD during the whole session. Between Comfort Touch and the DVD he was very calm and relaxed. It worked very well. The images are beautiful and the music very calming and relaxing. I also use this for myself at the end of the day and find it very relaxing and calming after a very stressful workday. Thank you for producing such beautiful DVD’s for people in a very difficult time in their lives can help them deal with illness and transitioning. They are also very good for stress reduction. Namaste” — Pam Morgan

For those of you who might to take a peek at the trailers, please clink on (or cut and paste) the link below.

http://www.brianlukeseaward.net/earthsongs.html

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Feb 14
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Love From A Distance

By healthy boundaries, healthy life coaching skills One Comment

During dinner with a good friend of mine last week, the conversation turned to her family. I was quickly briefed on the status of her three grown stepchildren, the youngest of whom has serious anger issues and problems with substance abuse. Years of family counseling appeared to provide no relief from the quagmire of conflicting personalities and childhood wounds. Without going into details, the level of toxicity over the holidays reached epic proportions and took it’s toll on everyone. It was at this point in the conversation I brought up the idea of healthy boundaries and the concept of “loving from a distance.” It could be argued that one reason for our earthly existence is to resolve issues in an effort to form and keep healthy relationships. Simply stated, we are here to learn to love unconditionally (this is no small task). But what happens when somebody wears the label of victim and sabotages all efforts for a healthy relationship with violence, abuse and childish behavior? Enter the concept of “Love from a distance.” Loving from a distance means to maintain a loving relationship yet with strong boundaries. Strong physical boundaries allow the space for healthy emotional boundaries. Once these physical boundaries are in place, this might include sending cards and short letters rather than any kind of get-togethers. Loving from a distance means keeping your heart open, but protected so than no harm may enter. You cannot disown your family when alcohol, drugs, in-laws, violence or other factors become toxic to your heart space, but you can keep a healthy boundary and express love from a distance.

Stress Tip for the Day:
Find 5-10 minutes today and sit quietly focusing on your heart space. Breath in and out as if the inhalation and exhalation originate from your heart rather than your mouth or nose. As you exhale, send a thought and feeling toward someone whom you feel has become toxic to your emotional environment. If it helps, imagine a rainbow from your heart to their heart. Learn to send love from a distance with those who’s close proximity becomes a toxin to the spirit.

Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:
Here are a few links with some great information on healthy boundaries:

http://serenityonlinetherapy.com/healthyboundaries.htm

http://www.livestrong.com/article/14718-building-healthy-boundaries/

Quote for the Day:
“Appropriate boundaries create integrity.” —Anonymous

Photo for the Day:
While hiking the Inca trail last year, I took this photo of a man looking down over the valley to the next range of mountains. Talk about “from a distance.” 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.

Feb 10
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Empowerment: Don’t Give Your Power Away

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Athletes, movie stars, debutantes, politicians. We live in a celebrity culture where names and faces repeatedly grab the headlines, often as a distraction from more important news. An interesting poll was taken recently of young people who were asked what profession they would love to have. The majority responded by saying “working for a celebrity,” to be near the excitement. They might want to aim their sights a littler higher, in fact, much higher. In stress management circles, there is an expression we use that states: “Don’t give your power away.” It means that rather than focusing on the importance or notoriety of others, take time to cultivate your highest potential. Giving your power away goes well beyond celebrities. People often give their power away when angry, giving credence to the expression, “He who angers you, conquers you.” Empowerment is a component of self-esteem. Empowerment is the cultivation of your inner resources to accomplish personal goals and reach for the stars (rather than reading about others who did themselves.) Empowerment, as a stress management skill, is in short supply these days because people eagerly give it away. Learn a lesson from the wisdom keepers…don’t give your power away.

Stress Tip of the Day:
Are you someone who gives your power away? How many of your conversations center around the lifestyles of celebrities? How much of your time and energy is focused on professional sports or the Hollywood elite? Polititicans even.? Spending time with tabloids and talk shows might be entertaining, but are you giving your power away to the celebrity culture? Does your self-esteem need a booster shot? Time to take stock of your life and redirect your energies inward. It’s time to step up to meet your highest potential. It’s time to reclaim your personal power and use it accordingly. The world needs heroes, not celebrities.

Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:
Her are a few links about the topic of empowerment:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empowerment
http://www.colorado.edu/conflict/peace/treatment/empower.htm

Quote of the Day:
“You may never know what results come of your action, but if you do nothing there will be no result.”— Mahatma Gandhi

Photo of the Day:
The “Rocky pose” is the pose of victory, success, empowerment. It is the moment of euphoria when a goal is achieved. This truly is empowerment. I caught this moment while doing some winter hiking with a friend recently …. 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.

Feb 07
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Name Your Joy!

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Calamta Olives on pesto cover pasta. Sharing a great conversation with close friends. Walking the beach at Hanalei bay, Kauai. Surfing the waves in Hawaii’s north shore! The scent of balsam pine needles. An early morning cup of Earl Grey tea. Downhill skiing at Copper Mountain. A cold coffee milkshake on a hot summer’s day. The Big Dipper. Discovering a new piece of great classical music. A friend of mine who is a massage therapist in the Chicago area begins each massage session with her hand on the client’s shoulder speaking these words: “Name your joy!” She confided in me once that nearly every person who comes in for a massage cannot name anything! She said, “If you cannot name your joy, how can you live it?” Joy and happiness are considered the positive emotions. Eutress is the good stress that by and large, we don’t get enough of. The best definition of emotional well-being suggests that it is the ability to feel and express the full range of human emotions, and to control them, not be controlled by them. Today many people ARE controlled by their emotions, primarily the stress emotions of anger and fear. This is not good! Living your joy may seem like a simple activity, but it truth, it’s a frame of mind, and one that you can adopt in the blink of an eye! Name your joy!

Stress Tip for the Day:
OK, so… start naming your joy. Begin by making a list of all those things that bring a smile to your face and a glow to your heart. Include one from of each of the five senses and be as specific as possible. Make sure that several of these items are free (meaning they don’t cost a lot of money). When you get done (be sure to include at least 10 things), post this list somewhere where you can see it regularly (e.g., computer, cork board, bathroom mirror, fridge, etc.). Naming your joy is the first step to living your joy!

Links/Books/ Movies Worth Noting:
I have already mentioned this book, but it is so good, it bears repeating… The Geography of Bliss, by Eric Weiner. It’s a great read about the pursuit of happiness. And… its funny.
I had the pleasure to see the movie, The Return Home, over the weekend. Based on the book, The Long Walk Home, which I also highly recommend, it depicts several men’s survival story in their attempt to escape from a Siberian prison during WWII. AMAZING!

Quote for the Day:
“Praise is the sound that joy makes.” — Matthew Fox

Photo for the Day:
One of my many joys is surfing in Hawaii. This isn’t a photo of me, even on a good day (I simply took this photo) but seeing other surf in Hawaii also brings joy to my heart. 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.

Jan 31
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Light Pollution and Sleep

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The cover story of the National Geographic magazine several months ago was cause for alarm. Not only does cit night light block our view from the stars and cause havoc with migrating birds, it affects humans as well. City lights that illuminate the night skies for miles on end are thought to be related to disrupting our circadian rhythms and the growing epidemic of insomnia across the country. Perhaps equally at fault is the amount of time spent in front of computer screens (be it laptops or smart phones). From the science of sleep we learn that as light (natural light, that is) diminishes and ambient temperatures drop, the sleep hormone, melatonin, increases in production and secretion producing drowsiness for a good night’s sleep. When light (and temperature) don’t decrease, this will affect the role of melatonin, and hence our quality of sleep. Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland, a pea sized part of the brain, located in the center of the head. For eons, the pineal gland (often called the third eye) has been associated with sleep. Although as of yet, no formal research has been done, there is speculation that abundant computer screen time in the night hours also throws off the delicate balance needed for the pineal gland to do it job properly.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
If you, like so many others have a hard time getting a good night’s sleep, consider making your bedroom as dark as possible. Also consider not using your computer 1-2 hours before bedtime (same with the cell phone). These and other factors (such as removing the TV from the bedroom, not using your smart phone to bed, etc.), contribute to a good night’s sleep are collectively known as sleep hygiene, something we can all improve upon.

• Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:
Here are some links of interest including the article from the National Geographic magazine:
http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2008/11/light-pollution/klinkenborg-text

http://blog.wellnesstips.ca/blog/?p=27

• Quote for the Day:
“Life is too short to sleep on low thread-count sheets.” ~Leah Stussy

Photo of the Day:
While I was looking for images for this bog entry (a picture I took of the Milkyway was runner up) this photo off the web seemed to really drive home the point of night sky brightness.

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.

Jan 30
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Stress & The Dangers of Cell Phone Use

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Did you ever hear about the numbers of policemen who contracted testicular cancer from the use of radar guns to catch speeders? It’s true. Radiation from these “guns” caused big problems. Years ago, Dr. Robert Becker came out with a landmark book called Cross Currents, where he espoused the dangers of power lines and their connection to cancer. Since the advent of cell phone technology many experts have noted the possible dangers of cell phone use with brain cancers and other health-related problems. While preliminary research was conducted by the cell phone companies with “no apparent danger,” new research suggests other wise. Here are the facts: Cell phones emit an ELF micro wave that is incompatible with the harmonics of human physiology. These micro waves destroy DNA, RNA and mitochondria. When this happens cancer isn’t far behind. Initial symptoms include headaches, insomnia and general fatigue. There is a HUGE experiment going on with cell phone use, and sadly there is no control group for this data collection. While cell phones surely promote convenience, the real question is at what cost? Specifically at what cost to your health. Cancer isn’t always deadly these days, when caught in time, but it is surely expensive. The biggest concer is the number of children who use cell phones. The human brain doesn’t completely form until age 25. One cannot ignore the danges of micro wave energies at close range to the human brain!

• Stress Tip For The Day:
If you have a cell phone, consider using it for emergencies only, not for prolong phone calls. Use your landline phone for all other calls. If you don’t have a landline, consider reinstalling one. Cordless phones are considered equally bad. Texting may be better than cell phone calls, but radiation is radiation. Do your best to minimize your exposure to cell phone radiation. Become educated on this matter (see links and book list below).

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
There are two books I HIGHLY recommend plus one article on this topic which I think should be required reading by everyone:
1. Cross Currents, by Robert Becker
2. Disconnected, by Devra Davis
3. Dangers of Cell Phones, by Christopher Ketchum
http://www.gq.com/cars-gear/gear-and-gadgets/201002/warning-cell-phone-radiation

• Quote for the Day:
“With the advent of our electrified modern life, we and all other living creatures on this planet are flooded in a sea of radiation never before encountered in our evolutional history.” —Devra Davis.

• Photo of the Day:
This photo scan is from an article in US News and World Report.

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.

Jan 28
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1,000 Things Went Right Today!

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It is very easy to dwell on the negative. The ego loves to find fault within and without. Negativism abounds everywhere in the form of complaining and whining these days. Perpetual negativism quickly becomes a label you wear on your forehead: I am a victim! Victim consciousness is rampant in our society, but for every complaint there is a bright side to look at. There is a silver lining to every grey cloud. Yes, there is much in the world that is positive, much in the world to celebrate! All it takes is looking at the world through a different pair of lenses. One of my colleagues, Ilan Shamir, has turned his advertising executive skills toward making the world a better place. One of his slogans is this “1,000 things went right today.” It is his effort to turn people’s attention away from the negative and focus on the positive. GREAT IDEA! Ilan’s idea is that nothing should be taken for granted, and he’s right. We have much to be grateful for, much to be appreciate of. Gratitude is a perception that is easy to adopt. Give it a try.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Can you think of 1,000 things that went right today, or even yesterday? Can you thing of ten things that went right? Sure you can. Make a list— start with 10 things. Start with the obvious: breathing (some people cannot do this easily), walking with two legs, having three meals to eat, having a roof over your head. Add to this list things you ARE grateful for. It shouldn’t be hard. At the end of each day before you lay your head on the pillow, come up with ten more things that went right today. Take nothing for granted. Let this be the lens in which you choose to see the world.

• Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:
Ilan has started a company called Your True Nature. Here is a link to his site.
http://www.yourtruenature.com/

• Quote for the Day:
“ Every situation has a good side and a bad side, each moment you decide.” —Anonymous

Photo of the Day:
I was in New England last weekend, clear up through yesterday speaking at several conferences. The weather was quite cold; 20 below zero a times (by comparison, I came home to temps in the high 50’s). Despite the cold, I went out with my camera on day because I saw these beautiful red berries on a tree and just had to get a better look. 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.

Jan 21
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Vitamin H: Humor Therapy:

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Once again, we will skip the theory and move straight to the application for today. Enjoy:

Since seniors are texting and tweeting more and more there appears to be a need for a STC (Senior Texting Code). If you qualify for Senior Discounts this is the code for you.
ATD ~ At The Doctor’s
BFF ~ Best Friend Farted
BTW ~ Bring The Wheelchair
BYOT ~ Bring Your Own Teeth
CBM ~ Covered By Medicare
CUATSC ~ See You At The Senior Center
DWI ~ Driving While Incontinent
FWB ~ Friend With Beta Blockers
FWIW ~ Forgot Where I Was
FYI ~ Found Your Insulin
GGPBL ~ Gotta Go, Pacemaker Battery Low!
GHA ~ Got Heartburn Again
HGBM ~ Had Good Bowel Movement
IMHO ~ Is My Hearing-Aid On?
LMDO ~ Laughing My Dentures Out
LOL ~ Living On Lipitor
LWO ~ Lawrence Welk’s On
OMMR ~ On My Massage Recliner
OMSG ~ Oh My! Sorry – Gas!
ROFL-CGU ~ Rolling On The Floor Laughing-Can’t Get Up
SGGP ~ Sorry, Gotta Go Poop
TTYL ~ Talk To You Louder
WAITT ~ Who Am I Talking To?
WTFA ~ Wet The Furniture Again
WTP ~ Where’s The Prunes?
WWNO ~ Walker Wheels Need Oil
GGLKI ~ Gotta Go, Laxative Kicking In
NCDCWPH ~ Never confuse denture cream with preparation H

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Find something today that makes you laugh. Remember the quota of optimal laughs per days is 15, so once you find something funny, keep looking for the other 14.

• Quote for the Day:
“I usually lump organized religion, organized labor, and organized crime together. The Mafia gets points for having the best restaurants.” ~Dave Beard

• Photo of the Day:
I found these guys texting at a ski resort on Seniors Day, perhaps some of the items from the list above?

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.

Jan 17
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Ireland Calling: 2011 Trip to the Emerald Isle

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Ireland is a country rich in culture, history and music, yet there is a mystical essence that cannot be described in words. It must be felt in the heart through the landscape, the music, the stories and the land itself. It is this essence that we will capture on the Spirit of Ireland Journey. Not just a simple vacation to a pretty place, the theme of this journey is one of healing; healing the energetic ley lines (meridian points at various Celtic sacred sites, known as “faerie lines” in Ireland); helping to restore the healing energies of these sacred sites and offering compassion in action through daily meditations and reflections. We will visit and hold healing ceremonies at the Drombeg stone circle (County Cork) to the Poulnabrone Dolmen in the Burren region of County Clare and a great many sacred sites in between. We will also enjoy the beauty of the Irish culture and the spirit of Celtic traditions found in the music—LOTS of great music! The southwest region of Ireland is renowned the world over for its stunning beauty and Celtic charm. People often say that traveling to Ireland is like stepping back in time to a land steeped in rich culture, history and spirituality; a less rushed lifestyle in a magical setting, where people meet you with a smile and a twinkle in their eye. Nearly everyone who went last year said this trip was a “life-changing” event in their lives and the friendships forged will last a lifetime. Who Should Come? Any and all people interested in a spiritual adventure to the Emerald Isle, specifically those who wish to travel with like-minded companions and healers interested in participating in a magical journey of Celtic spirituality, Celtic music and Celtic history. Our local tour guides are the best in Ireland and know exactly how to create the magical alchemy we desire for a most memorable experience. You don’t have to be of Irish heritage to enjoy this trip, but those who claim Irish ancestry will be smiling for years to come. Space is limited to 22 beautiful like-minded souls.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
We have just a few coveted spaces open for the 2011 Spirit of Ireland trip (nicknamed Ruins, Runes and Tunes), and we would love to have you join us… Not only will this trip be a great vacation retreat, but a chance to unplug from the world (as you know it) and even practice some stress management skills with your host (e.g., guided meditations, music therapy (Celtic music, of course), guided imagery, support groups, etc, etc….really!) Consider joining us….and start packing your bags…

• Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:
All the information you need about this year’s trip can be found on the link below:
http://www.brianlukeseaward.net/tripstoireland.html

And…here is a partial list of recommended movies to get you in the Irish mood:
1. Waking Ned Divine
2. Ryan’s Daughter
3. Into the West
4. The Secret of Roan Inis
5. My Left Foot

• Quote for the Day:
My Godmother, Pat O’Connor, passed along this Irish Blessing for today’s quote:

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.

Photo of the Day:
One stop on our tour is to St. Brigit’s Well, an earthen spring recognized with healing qualities of the spring waters that dates back over a thousand years. Celtic lore recognizes the sacred feminine, and St. Brigit symbolizes this, just one aspect of our healing journey.

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.

Jan 16
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Stress & Memory

By stress and memory No Comments

Have you noticed how easy it is to forget things these days? When the mind is overwhelmed with sensory stimulation (and these days, who’s isn’t?) short term memory is compromised, sometimes greatly! Simply stated, everybody, regardless of their age, seems to be having beaucoup “senior moments.” Experts suggest that technology doesn’t really help much with memory retention. People who use GPS devices often become too reliant on them for second and third trips to the same place, rather than committing the route to memory. Google, the bottomless pit of information, makes retrieval so easy that people often fail to remember what they looked up knowing they can return to look it up again. Spell check is has made everybody lazy spellers. And…anyone who has lost their cell phone call tell you the horrors of not committing phone numbers to memory. As it turns out, memory, particularly short-term memory, is one of the first casualties of stress. When the mind is focus on fight or flight, even at the unconscious level, this is where all one’s attention is really focused. Everything else is deemed useless. So, when you combine a stressed lifestyle with abundant use of technology, it would stand to reason that one’s memory can be greatly compromised. This in turn, can create more stress, and the cycle just keeps turning. Memory, more specifically, memorization, is just one facet of mental well-being: The ability to gather, process, recall and communication information.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
How is your memory these days? Is your youg life filled with senior moments? Time for some mental gymnastics! To keep a sharp mind, make it a point to work on your short term memory: Memorize people’s phone numbers. Memorize your credit card number. Memorize lyrics to a new song or a favorite poem. There are stories of people in survival situations who tapped into the power of memorization (e.g., mathematical problems, violin concertos, etc.) and credit this skill with saving their lives. The brain is the mind’s first organ of choice, so take good care of the grey matter between your ears, including avoiding toxins like Aspartame and MSG. Fish oils (Omega 3’s and 6’s) are really good for brain cells, too. And the latest research suggests that regular cardiovascular physical exercise is excellent, not only for physical health, but mental well-being as well; including improving memory.

• Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:
If you have an interest in learning more about improving memory, please check out these websites:
http://helpguide.org/life/improving_memory.htm
http://curiosity.discovery.com/topic/memory/10-ways-to-improve-memory.htm

• Quote for the Day:
One of the first things I had to memorize in school was Robert Frost’s poem, The Road Not Taken. I can still recite it 45 year later…, so in honor of all the great teachers who taught (and teach) memorization as a form of mental well-being, here goes:

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth.
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same.
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I–
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

Photo of the Day:
With another group trip to Ireland scheduled in June (16-26), Dan (our musical troubadour) and I are going to learn some new Irish ballads (and that will require some strong memorization skills, believe me!) In honor of this feat, today’s image is a photo of the rocks of Slea Head on the Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry, Ireland. 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.

Jan 13
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Practice The Golden Rule

By From Fear to Compassion, Life Coaching Tips for stress Management No Comments

Love your neighbor as yourself. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Treat others as you wish to be treated. Bestow compassion on all individuals. The Golden Rule is considered to be the “golden standard” of human behavior; a lofty ideal, but hardly unreachable. There was a time, not long ago, where The Golden Rule was taught to all people, from all countries, all religions, all languages; taught by parents, taught by preachers, taught by wisdom keepers. There are many people today, particularly young people, who have never even heard of The Golden Rule. Today the Golden Rule has been replaced with the slogans: “Every man for himself,” “He or she who shouts loudest is right” and “It’s all about me!” Enter the age of narcissism. In light of the recent shootings in Tucson, AZ last weekend, human behavior, particularly uncivil behavior, is finally being questioned in the media (well, in some corners of the media). One person to champion the practice of The Golden Rule is British Theologian, Karen Armstrong. Karen is a recent recipient of the TED award. Her goal: to create a charter of compassion. Her reason; to move the global community out of despair and narcissism toward compassion and community building.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
As young children, our hearts are open to a loving world. As we mature into adulthood, we learn to close our hearts as a means of protection. Yet, that which protects in the short term fosters selfish and narcissistic behavior in the long term. Simply stated, it is ego that derails any effort to practice The Golden Rule. The stress tip for today is to reopen your heart and domesticate the ego. To do this effectively, you must first ask yourself what thoughts, perceptions, attitudes and beliefs (right or wrong) have narrowed the passage of compassion that streams from your heart space. Practicing The Golden Rule means taking the high road with human behavior. It means treating others with respect. Everyone! The first step when taking the high road is opening your heart.

• Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:
Here are two links highlighting Karen Armstrong and her efforts to re-introduce The Golden Rule to Humanity.

http://www.npr.org/2011/01/10/132809627/concrete-ways-to-live-a-compassionate-life

http://www.ted.com/talks/karen_armstrong_makes_her_ted_prize_wish_the_charter_for_compassion.html

• Quote for the Day:
“Jesus said, love your enemies. He didn’t say don’t have any.” —Joseph Campbell

Photo of the Day:
Today’s photograph, a butterfly, is a symbol of transformation, rising above mediocrity to our highest human potential.

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.

Jan 10
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Food Energy: Is Your Food Really Dead?

By stress and nutrition No Comments

I was over at a friend’s house one evening for dinner and the topic of food preparation came up. It was noted how much of our food is “processed” these days. Someone made a comment regarding the energy of food, and we all took notice. Fresh fruits and vegetables are considered to have vital energy; there is vitality to the taste, more importantly, the nutrients. The same cannot be said for processed food, which not only strips the vitamins and minerals, but often the “vital energy” of the food itself. Take instant potatoes as an example. While these certainly contain calories, the vital energy is gone. Dead food! The same can be said for nearly all processed and packaged foods. The term often used is “empty calories.” Fresh foods are nutrient dense and energy rich. It is for this reason why nutrition experts suggest to only shop around the perimeter of the grocery store. The shelf life of fresh foods and veggies isn’t very long, because the vital energy doesn’t linger. Conversely, processed foods can have a very long shelf life; weeks, months, even years in some cases. Dead food! These days we place more attention on the convenience of food, and taste (fat, salt and sugar) rather than on the energetic qualities of food—to our own detriment. Perhaps it’s no coincidence that as the quality of food decreases in our country, the incidence of chronic diseases increases. At what point does convenience undermine one’s health? In the words of Ben Franklin, don’t be “penny wise and pound foolish.”

• Stress Tip For The Day:
When you shop for food, do you shop primarily for convenience? How much of the food that you buy is processed foods, junk foods, comfort foods? How many meals do you “prepare” rather than nuke in a microwave? Perhaps the real question is: How dead is your food? How empty are the calories you are eating? These are important questions to ask yourself when you consider your own health habits. Tonight (and perhaps as often as you can) make a meal from scratch! Join the slow food movemen— from preparation to eating. Invest in your health!

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
For more information please check out these links:

http://www.whfoods.com/foodstoc.php

http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=george&dbid=81

http://www.goodhealthinfo.net/food_and_energy.htm

• Quote for the Day:
“You don’t have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces – just good food from fresh ingredients.”— Julia Child

Photo of the Day:
A photo of fresh potatoes. I learned years ago that potatoes are the number one veggie eaten in America… as French fries in fast food joints. There are so many other ways to enjoy potatoes. Give it a try!

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.

Jan 06
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Detachment: Cutting Your Losses

By Life Coaching Tips for stress Management No Comments

Wisdom keepers the world over remind us to detach from our expectations. Many words or phrases are used to encourage us to practice this ageless wisdom: release, cleanse, let go, detach, and cut your losses. The ego can become very protective of our ambitions, occasionally sabotaging our best efforts. The last thing the ego wants to do is let go. The ego lives under the illusion that holding on is where the strength is. Often the ego holds on to the point of choking the human spirit. Cutting your losses begins with an objective look at the situation and taking stock of all gains and losses. Often, the ego hangs on to losses as a means of control. An example might include holding a grudge, seeking revenge, staying in a toxic relationship or prolonged grieving. Expectations, perceptions, attitudes can become dead weights around the neck. Dead weights make you sink. Learning to detach from an emotional situation is a skill, and like any skill, it takes practice. Cutting your losses (a term often used in the business world, but aptly applied to one’s personal life) means dump the dead weights around your neck and swim to the surface. Cutting your losses is the first step toward emotional freedom. As the expression goes, “How can our dreams fly when they are tethered to the ground?”

Stress Tip for the Day:
Step outside yourself for a moment and take a good look at yourself— as objectively as you can (try to see yourself as a stranger or colleague might see you upon). Are there things in your life that you are holding on to that have become deadweights around your neck? Are there things you are holding on to that in all honesty, are casualties of a bruised ego? Begin to make a list of things in your life that you are a little too closely associated with. It might be your house, a job, a financial decision, perhaps even a (toxic) relationship. Weigh the pros (gains) and cons (losses). Pick one aspect of your life and begin to lighten the load. Remember this sage advice: Nature abhors a vacuum. Whatever you let go of, will often be replaced by something of equal or greater value.
And, as the expression goes, pain is inevitable, suffering is optional.

Links, Books & Movies Worth Noting:
I googled the expression ‘cutting your losses” and came up with a host of different links, including the following: If these might be of interest, take a peek.

http://www.paulstips.com/brainbox/pt/home.nsf/link/11122006-If-you-find-yourself-in-a-hole-the-first-thing-to-do-is-stop-digging

http://www.pickthebrain.com/blog/knowing-when-to-cut-your-losses-and-call-it-quits/

http://www.examiner.com/la-in-los-angeles/5-steps-to-cutting-your-losses-a-dead-end-relationship

Photo for the Day:
Today’s photo was taken a few weeks ago on Hanalei Bay, Kauai. Enjoy!

Quote for the Day:
“Sometimes walking away is avoidance. Other times, walking away is salvation. It’s always best to know the difference.” — Anonymous

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.

Jan 04
Love0

New Beginnings: Two Steps Forward

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It’s natural to want to make improvements, if not major corrections, in our lives. The climb for self-improvement to reach our highest potential is as old as time itself. Making changes is not always easy, however. It takes a strong idea coupled with desire, will power and foresight to see the desired outcome. Much of stress management falls in the domain of “behavior modification,” changing negative thoughts and behaviors into positive ones, which in turn, promote optimal health and wellbeing. The start of each year is ideal for making a course correction in our lives, but there are countless times to initiate positive behavior changes, such as the start of each month, the start of each week, even the start of each day. As the expression goes, “there is no time like the present.” Often, people who are ready for a change, want a complete life-makeover. Yet, changing many behaviors all at once can be a recipe for failure. Experts suggest making one change at a time until it becomes second nature. Then move on to and conquer the next goal. These days making positive healthy lifestyle changes also requires healthy boundaries and perhaps a frequent unplugging from cultural norms that do nothing to assist you in your efforts (e.g., television ads that use subtle unconscious messages to derail one’s best efforts). You can do it. Take a deep breath, and place one foot forward with your eye on the goal. Keep moving, even if it seems you are taking baby steps. This is how dreams are achieved.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Eating habits, finances, sleep habits, technology habits and relationships; the directions for positive life changes are many, leading people to become overwhelmed quickly. So pick one, just one. Where do you feel like your life needs the biggest correction factor? Take a moment and then see yourself having accomplished the goal. Creative an image in your mind of how you wish to be; a new and improved you. As the expression goes, “As if becomes as is.” If need be, ask a few close friends to give you moral support. Remember, even if you feel like you are backsliding occasionally, this is all part of the process. Two steps forward…..

• Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:
Having just watched the movie, The King’s Speech, I felt compelled to list it here as a recommendation, if nothing more, as a personal reminder that the quest for self-improvement isn’t always quick nor easy, but the intangible reward of success is the sweetest taste of life’s victory. I highly recommend this film. Best of luck with your goals and aspirations during the start of this auspicious year.

• Quote for the Day:
“Today is the first day of the rest of your life.” —Anonymous

• Photo of the Day:
This photo was taken at sunrise in Florida on January 1, 2011, a nice reminder that each day is a new beginning, bringing us closer to our highest potential. 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.

Dec 16
Love0

2010 Holiday Stress Survival

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Long lines at the post office. Long lines at the checkout stands. Lines to get groped at airport security (it’s true, I was groped last week, AFTER the x-ray scan, no less!) Everybody is in a rush to get to a store or return home from shopping. As we inch closer into the holiday season people are getting a little more edgy, a little less patient, a little more cranky and a little less compassionate, or so it seems. How ironic that a season based on love and compassion often reveals its shadow side. I was walking my dog through the neighborhood to the park the other day and noticed one of my neighbors has a digital countdown clock, counting the days and hours till Christmas. With tongue in cheek, it reminded me of one of those red panel digital ticking bomb clocks flashing during the climax of a movie thriller. But, as we say in stress management circles, “You have a choice!” Remember, you don’t have to play the consumer game, and you certainly don’t have to single-handedly support the US economy. You don’t have to get stressed!

• Stress Tip for the Day:
Don’t worry if the Christmas cards don’t get mailed till New Year’s Day. Avoid using your credit card if at all possible (Cash only from here on out). Remember that refined sugar can suppress the immune system, so opt for fruits and veggies at the holiday parties. Fine tune expectations when things don’t go the way you wanted. Be pleasantly assertive with controlling family members! Exercise patience (waiting in line is a great time to practice your meditation skills). Practice healthy boundaries, and above all else, exercise compassion. It’s the message of the season.

One of my colleagues, Mary Elaine is hosting an online holiday stress survival presentation (see details below).
Strategies to Heal Your Holiday Spirit*Thursday, December 16, 2010**2:00 – 3:30 pm (Eastern)*Phone # and access code will be sent following registration**You’ll benefit most with live attendance during this interactive presentation. **However, I’ll also be sending ALL registrants a downloadable mp3 link of the teleclass recording later next week.
To register: http://www.snipurl.com/sw-holiday

• Links/Books/ Movies Worth Noting:
The week before Christmas, I stack up some of my favorite holiday movies to recalibrate the holiday spirit… here are some of my favorites:
1. It’s a Wonderful Life
2. Love, Actually
3. Miracle on 34th Street
4. Millions
5. White Christmas

• Quote for the Day:
“Santa is an anagram for Satan.” — Steve Martin

• Photo of the Day:
Perhaps this poor Nutcracker was groped at airport security too. Enjoy!
This blog will go on holiday until Jan 4th.. See you then.. Happy Holidays!

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.

Dec 12
Love0

It’s All About Me: The Age of Narcissism

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Consider these facts: Today anyone can publish their own book, post countless updates on Facebook, record their own song, post their own blog, produce their own movie and gain worldwide attention, if not millions of fans, via Youtube. Reality shows are the rage on TV, from Jersey Shore (think, but not too long, of Snookie and The Situation) to Sarah Palin’s Alaska. Anyone can become a celebrity, specifically a “laptop celebrity”. Experts who keep their finger on the pulse of humanity grow increasingly concerned. The “Me” generation has now expanded over several decades to include several generations. The self-absorbed, all about me, narcissistic, in-your-face, 15-seconds of fame culture is nothing more than the ego run amuck. The problems with unbridled egos (multiplied by 7 billion people) cannot be understated! If everyone is only looking out for themselves, many people, perhaps cultures, if not the world, will suffer greatly. Perhaps nowhere is this more evident than at the Global Environmental summit in Cancun, Mexico, where self-interests doomed any progress on global warming. NPR All Things Considered ran a story on the topic of Narcissism. Interestingly, the American Psychiatric Association has decided to delete the Narcissism Disorder from the DSM-5 Manual in 2013…suggesting that this behavior is too common now to be recognized as a disorder. Look out!

• Stress Tip for the Day:
Granted, you have to have some interest in yourself. After all, that’s what self-esteem is all about. Low self-esteem is no better than an over-barring ego! Balance, however, is the key. Self-expression is good…to a point. At what point is the line crossed? That is the million-dollar question! The opposite of narcissism is altruism; doing something for others without any expectation of reciprocation: random acts of kindness. Consider doing a random act of kindness today, and every day, to make the world a better place for us all.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Keith Campbell is the author of the book, The Narcissist Epidemic. He was also featured on NPR’s All Thing Considered.. Take a look at the link below:
http://www.npr.org/2010/12/11/131991083/it-s-all-about-me-but-is-narcissism-a-disorder

If you want to see something to life your spirits, consider watching this link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXh7JR9oKVE

• Quote for the Day:
“Enough about me. What do you think about me?” — Bette Midler

• Photo of the Day:
In honor of the recent Global Warming conference in Cancun Mexico, a photo of the popular Myan Chac-mool statue near the blue Caribbean waters was chosen for today.

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.