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Brian Luke Seaward

Dec 08
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Soothing a Savage Breast

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Music has an incredible means to calm the nerves. We don’t take in sounds solely through our eardrums. We absorb sound through our entire body, every inch of it. Our body is, itself, a drum. The best type of music to calm the nerves is instrumental music—that which has no lyrics. It massages the brain. The right side of the brain is known as the relaxed side of the brain (right hemisphere thought processes are associated with the relaxation effect, whereas the left side of the brain steps into gear under stress). Instrumental music massages the right side of the brain. There has been much research on the topic of music therapy. Through it all, experts agree that personal choice is paramount in the ultimate relaxation effect. Several decades ago, the Mitchum deodorant company conducted a survey to see what made people sweat. While they were at it, they also asked people to note their favorite means of relaxation. Head and shoulders above all else was listening to music. Indeed, music has the most uncanny ability to influence our emotions. In a day and age where there is a lot of noise “out there” we can take back control of our lives, if only for a while, by being our own music programmer. Take time to soothe the savage breast!

Stress Tip for the Day:
Time to make a new play list! Pull out you Ipod or walk over to your CD collection and make a line up of 10-20 new favorite songs. It might even be time to find some new music to hit that spot on your threshold of musical sensations. Consider making a music mix for late night relaxation. Consider making a (different) mix for driving in traffic relaxation. Perhaps even one for getting out of bed in the morning (rather than being startled by the dreary news). You may not have control over everything in your life, but you can be the music programmer for much of your day. Why give that power over to somebody else?

Links, Books & Movies Worth Noting:
Many people has listened to music from the websit.e Pandora.com, but it comes with many limitations and advertisements. If you like to have a website to listen to (and find new) music, consider Grooveshark (see the link below). You can tailor your own line up and avoid annoying ads. Enjoy!

http://listen.grooveshark.com/

Quote for the Day:
“Without music, life is a journey through a desert”
— Pat Conroy

“We need music to restore the human spirit”
— Leonard Slatkin, 
Director of the National Symphony

Photo for the Day:
While in Ireland last summer our tour group heard several nights of live music. Simply sublime! The Irish, much like the Hawaiians (both of whom were occupied by the British) keep their culture alive in their music. This member of Cooper O’Neill was playing one night in a pub in Doolin. 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 06
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Walk Gracefully Through the Valley of Death

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A friend called me other day to tell me he has cancer; prostate cancer to be exact. The news came as quite a surprise to him. Young, strong and fit he is determined to beat this. As a father and husband, he is even more determined. Several friends of mine have called me this year to share similar personal news. The diganosis of cancer has that effect. Each friend sounded defiant, yet with a slight air of resignation. Facing one’s own mortality can do this. The fear of death is often called the “mother of all fears,” the epitome of stress! In it is wrapped so many other fears, including the fear of the unknown. The beauty of youth is the illusion of immortality. The luxury of wisdom over time is the irony that we know we each must die. If we live long enough to realize this, we must walk bravely through the valley of death, rather than run in the opposite direction (which many people try to do). To walk bravely in the face of death is the epitome of courage. Mythologist Joseph Campbell described this as being an essential part of the Hero’s Journey, for until we do this, we cannot return home the victor. No one knows the hour of his or her death. As the expression goes, “It comes like a thief in the night.” But we can prepare ourselves, by resolving issues, making amends and fighting the good fight. So walk through the valley of death with your head held high. Indeed, there really is no other way.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Are there issues you need to resolve? Are there loose ends that need tying up? Are there people who need to hear the words, “I love you” from your lips? Are there amends (asking forgiveness) you need to make now? These are all aspects of walking through the valley of death with your head held high. These are all aspects of fighting the good fight. These are also aspects of living a balanced life. We shouldn’t wait to attend to this unfinished business until the last few breaths on our deathbed. To live a life with no regrets might seem a daunting task, but you can only live to the fullest when you are indeed living. It takes courage to face stress head-on. It takes courage to LIVE your life.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
I couldn’t help think that when I was reading Andre Agassi’s best selling book, Open, that he was making amends…with himself. I never really followed his career as a tennis player, but I LOVED his autobiography. I highly recommend this book, not only is a good read, and an amazing study of human psychology, but a good lesson for all of us model…by being OPEN.

On a related theme, the Institute of Noetic Sciences has studied the frontiers of consciousness for over four decades. Here is a link to one of the current articles from their online journal. Enjoy!

http://www.noetic.org/noetic/issue-five-december/toward-a-common-spirituality-scaffolding-for-evolv/

• Quote for the Day:
“Have the courage to live. Anyone can die.” —Robert Cody

Photo of the Day:
A photo taken yesterday of a sunset on Ke’e Beach, Kauai. 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 01
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Healthy Fiscal Boundaries

By healthy boundaries, healthy life coaching skills, Money Management No Comments

Consider this fact: One third of Americans say that it takes nearly all year to clear the credit card debt from the previous year’s Christmas shopping. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out something is wrong with this picture. There has long been an association between money (or the lack of it) and stress, much of it self-imposed. It’s human nature to require enough money for basic survival needs. It’s ego that crosses the line into financial stress with purchases that are unaffordable. As Gandhi once said, “There is enough for everyone’s need, not everyone’s greed.” This holiday season, consider the mantra, “Healthy fiscal boundaries!” Every time you pull out your wallet or enter your credit card # into a Paypal web page, ask yourself can I afford this purchase in cash right now? If the answer is NO, put the wallet back in your pocket or exit the web page. Before making a purchase, sleep on it (so many purchases are made impulsively with short term shopping thrills often resulting in long term fiscal stress). Healthy boundaries mean having conscious restraint with your purchasing power. Since the start of the Great Recession in 2008, American’s savings have increased from 1% to 6% by some estimates. This is certainly a step in the right direction. Healthy fiscal boundaries begin with creating a sound budget and sticking to it: Living within your means. Healthy fiscal boundaries means using cash, rather than credit cards, no matter how inconvenient this may be. Having healthy fiscal boundaries are only as good as the will to honor them.

Stress Tip for the Day:
Before you start (or perhaps finish) your Christmas shopping, make a budget… and stick to it. Consider making gifts, rather than buying them (remember you are not solely responsible for curing the country’s economy.) Time is one of the greatest gifts you can give someone, whether it’s taking someone for a walk, sitting down over a cup of tea, cooking a meal from scratch or watching a DVD and talking about it later. Much of the research being done on the topic of happiness shows that indeed, money doesn’t buy happiness. Solid friendships form the foundation for lifelong happiness.

Links, Books & Movies Worth Noting:
Every year I make a point to give thanks by giving to a charity to those people in the world who really need assistance simply to get by. Heiffer.org and Trees for Life are two such organizations that lives by the motto, “feed a man to fish, feed him for life.” Here are the links in case this might be of interest to you. Trees for life was started by my friend and colleague, Meher Balbir, for those who might remember him as a featured story in Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward.

http://www.heifer.org/

http://www.treesforlife.org/

Quote for the Day:
“Live simply, so that others may simply live.” — Anonymous

Photo for the Day:
For those of you interested in seeing what a Euro looks like, here is a shot taken while in Ireland last summer (before the country went bankrupt!) If you look closely, you will see the Celtic Harp is on the back on the 2 EU coin.

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.

Nov 29
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A Thing of Beauty

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The world is filled with incredible beauty, yet the filter of stress often casts a spell upon our eyes that, in turn, dulls all the senses. The result is that in every direction, we see (perhaps project) a boring, if not ugly, landscape. We are the ones that cast this spell, so it would stand to reason that we must also be the ones to “break the spell” (for those of you who are familiar with popular fairy tales, this theme, for a good reason, is not uncommon). This week while rereading the works of poet philosopher, John O’Donohue (Anam Cara) I was struck by his passion for beauty (perhaps because it mirrors my own.) Just as it is hard to feel sorry for yourself when you find things to be grateful for in your life, searching for all things beautiful is one way to help break the spell of stress and self-pity. Nature is filled with remarkable beauty and the sages and luminaries across the span of time remind us constantly to return to nature as a means to become grounded and centered in our lives, in essence, to break the spell of stress. O’Donohue invites us to examine the beautiful landscape regularly, and we would do well to take his advice. The world, it appears, is also filled with much ugliness (e.g., politics, poverty, hunger, etc.) and while we cannot, nor should not ignore these problems, neither should be become mired in them that we cast a spell of despair over ourselves….Balance is the key! The world is filled with incredible beauty! Its up to us to find it.

Stress Tip for the Day:
Make a list today of 10 things that you consider, through your eyes, to hold great beauty, stunning beauty: Stain glass windows, a vase of roses, a sleeping kitten, a Mozart Symphony, a child’s smile, snow capped mountains. Without spending money, begin to create (perhaps recreate) a sacred space in your house, office or place of your choosing so that you are surrounded in beauty. Remember that sacred spaces need to breathe, meaning that things of beauty need to be circulated in and out to maintain their perspective of beauty, least we take them for granted and recast the spell once again.

Links, Books & Movies Worth Noting:
One of the last interviews of John O’Donohue (before his untimely death a few years ago) was conducted by Krista Tippit for the NPR program, Being. Below is a link to this sight and his last interview. I also highly recommend O’Donohue’s book, Anam Cara (Soul Friend).

http://being.publicradio.org/

Quote for the Day:
“Beauty is a harmonious relation between something in our nature and the quality of the object which delights us.” —Pascal

Photo for the Day:
One of my hobbies is photography and I wander endlessly in nature to do my best to capture these moments of beauty, that I then hang in the photo gallery throughout my home. It was hard to select just one photo to capture the essence of beauty for this entry, but in honor of John O’Donohue and his native Ireland, here is a photo from the Southwest region, near the Dingle Peninsula. 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.

Nov 24
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One Way of Saying Thanks!

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Years ago I taught a popular course at the American University called Modern Theories of Health and Wellness, based on the quadrants of the wellness paradigm (mind, body, spirit and emotions) where the whole is always greater than the sum of the parts. Often, I would bring in guest speakers to give the students a “real world” flavor to the course, and this semester was no different. Through some great connections, I invited a Lakota Sioux Native American to class to share his views of human spirituality. The night class went three hours (7-10 p.m.) and I offered him the entire evening. As is customary with such a speaker, I began the class by offering some tobacco. My students then got in line to offer a token gift of thanks as well (for some reason, one student even brought a can a baked beans?) After the exchange of gifts, the room became extremely quiet. Our guest speaker pulled an eagle feather out of his medicine pouch and holding it in his right hand, looked up toward the heavens and began to pray a prayer of gratitude. He began with words to thank the Creator, the Great Mystery, who makes all things. He gave thanks to Mother Earth for the sustenance of food that nourishes our bodies. He spoke of the need for balance as we walk gently on the back of Mother Earth. He thanked the rain and the rivers of water that nurture the rivers of blood through our muscles. He gave thanks to the energies of the four directions, north, south, east and west, and the symbolic gifts they offer. He gave thanks to the winds that fill our lungs with air so that we may breathe our own words of thanks. He gave thanks to the five senses that we may appreciate the winds, the earth, the water, the food, every day. He gave thanks to the animals and birds and then proceeded to list several hundred by name which took several minutes. In fact, his prayer of thanks, which left no stone unturned, took nearly an hour. It was on that day that all of us really learned the meaning of gratitude, taking nothing for granted, even the simplest of things in our lives.

Stress Tip for the Day:
This Thanksgiving, when you give thanks, think beyond the usual and obvious. Give thanks, by name, to everything— even if it takes you an hour! Make everyday a day of gratitude!

Quote for the Day:
“Every part of this earth is sacred to my people. Every shining pine needle, every sandy shore, every mist in the dark woods. All are holy in the memory and experience of my people. We know the sap that courses through the trees as we know the blood that courses through our veins. We are part of the earth and it is a part of us. Perfumed flowers are our sisters. The bear, the deer, the great eagle; these are our brothers.” —Chief Seattle, 1855

Photo for the Day:
As I begin to make preparations for some dinner guest this evening…. I give thanks as well. 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.

Nov 22
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The Acid-Base Balance

By healthy foods life coaching skills, stress and nutrition No Comments

A guest speaker who frequented my nutrition course at the University of Colorado often spoke of the importance of maintaining a diet that did not consist of foods with a high acid content. Her reasoning was that these types of foods throw off the body’s ph, setting the stage for cancer and a host of other chronic diseases. Foods that she mentioned seem to constitute the Standard American (SAD), foods that are processed, rather than natural (e.g., plucked off a tree or pulled out of the ground). I once heard Andy Weil, M.D. speak on the topic of nutrition where he was asked the question regarding acid-based foods and their effects on one’s health. He said that the body’s requirement for a “perfectly balanced” ph is so vital to one’s health that if it were the slightest bit off, all hell would break loose in the body (e.g., immanent death). He dismissed the idea of foods that are acidic in nature because the body will rectify this in the digestion process. Fair enough, but what if the preponderance of cancer and all the other chronic diseases are the result of the body’s ph being just a hair off every now and then… enough to set the stage for illness? It is a well known fact that stress greatly compromised the digestive process. In the bigger picture, might not a poor diet and a compromised digestive tract be a bad combination for health? Medical experts tend to be specialists in one area, such as cancer, without looking at the big picture. It is a travesty that most physicians have little or no background in nutrition whatsoever. The bottom line is that balance is crucial to one’s health; so is a healthy diet.

Stress Tip for the Day:
Is there a fair amount of processed foods in your diet? If so, your diet may be high in acidic foods rather than a balance between acidic and alkaline foods. All things being equal, your digestion process should neutralize the foods you eat. Yet with acid reflux being such a problem to day, and Americans drinking ungodly amounts of coffee, (not to mention a host of other processed foods consumed) perhaps eating a diet that is high in fresh fruits and vegetables is a good idea. So today, snack on a fresh apple, reach for some carrot sticks and drink water or iced tea rather than soda or coffee today, perhaps the whole week. Consider putting a slice of lemon in your drinking water too. Balance is the key to life!

Links, Books & Movies Worth Noting:
For more information please consider reading the content of the following links:
http://www.cancer-healing.com/acid_alkaline_balance.php

http://www.dietobio.com/dossiers/en/pH/acid_base.html

http://www.wellness.com/reference/diet/ph-diet/

http://www.psychologicalharassment.com/diet_stress_acid_base_disorders.htm

Quote for the Day:
“Don’t eat anything your great-great grandmother wouldn’t recognize as food. There are a great many food-like items in the supermarket your ancestors wouldn’t recognize as food (Go-Gurt? Breakfast-cereal bars? Nondairy creamer?); stay away from these.” -Michael Pollan, author of The Omnivore’s Dilemma

Photo for the Day:
Apples are definitely in season right now (my favorite are McIntosh Apples, which has nothing to do with my favorite laptop computer). Here is a photo from the Seaward nutrition collection. 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.

Nov 17
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Tribute to a Friend & Colleague

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This year celebrates the 50th anniversary of Jane Goodall’s initial research of the chimpanzees of Tanzania. As a young woman in her 20’s she ventured into the rainforests of Africa to study our closest relative in the animal kingdom. It was Jane who discovered that humans are not the only toolmakers on the planet. One must remember that before this discovery, it what thought that what separated humans from other animals was that we were the only toolmakers! Over the past several decades Jane has worked tirelessly to champion environmental causes. Like so many animals around the planet to day chimpanzees are losing their habitat to urban sprawl. Songbirds, Florida panthers, tigers in India are also losing their habitat; the list is nearly endless. The balance of nature is out of balance! To camp years on end in the jungles of Africa as a young woman takes courage. To stand up for a cause, in this case, environmentalism, also takes courage. The mark of a real hero is courage; to stand up for what you believe in the effort to help others. Jane Goodall is one such hero. Today, Jane Goodall, we salute you as one of humanity’s great heroes!

• Stress Tip for the Day:
One person can make a difference in the world. It happens everyday. People who work in soup kitchens to help feed the hungry. People who teach young kids to read. People give clothing and shelter to the poor. People who offer assistance to others in times of need. These people don’t necessarily make the headlines. They don’t always have books and movies made about their lives, but these people DO make a difference. They are the “everyday heroes” and we need more of them. There are those who say that, as a global village under stress, we need to reevaluate our lifestyles; putting less focus on ourselves and more attention to help others in need. One person can make a difference in the world… and that person is you!

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Like most people, I have known of Jane Goodall and her work for decades, but I became quite enchanted with her after reading her autobiography, Reason for Hope. I recommend this book to everyone!

The following is a recent interview with Jane from the New York Times:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/16/science/16conversation.html?_r=1&nl=todaysheadlines&emc=a210

• Quote for the Day:
“My mission is to create a world where we can live in harmony with nature, please make this your mission too.” — Jane Goodall

• Photo of the Day:
I had the pleasure of hosting Jane Goodall and Michael York at my house for dinner in preparation for a celebration in Boulder honoring Jane’s commitment for world peace and environmental protection. Jane, Michael and I put together a commemorative CD/DVD: Jane Goodall’s Message of Peace which raised (and continues to raise) thousands of dollars to help restore chimpanzee habitat in Tanzania. Congratulations, Jane for your efforts to make this a better world in which to live.

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.

Nov 15
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Detoxing the Mind

By detoxing the mind, Life Coaching Tips for stress Management, meditations, mental training No Comments

Even if there were no Internet, no twitter, no cell phones, nor Facebook, there would be plenty of distractions to cause an overload of mental stimulation (also known as STRESS!) Our minds are barraged with a multitude of thoughts and feelings—the majority of which are generated from the ego. It is the ego which trips the “fight or flight” alarm to make one feel threatened, and today, egos are running rampant. It is the ego which perpetuates stress. The plethora of tech gadgets, as well as other external distractions, only add to the mix, or perceptions of it. When the mind is overloaded with stimuli, good or bad, too much stimuli becomes bad. The result is that we cannot think straight. Ancient mystics knew this (and long before the creation of the first computer). Ancient mystics and wisdom keepers also knew the importance of quieting the mind, domesticating the ego and allowing the mind to “think straight” rather than zig-zaged (also known as “monkey mind” in the East.) Quieting the mind is best done by meditating: sitting still, and cleansing the mind of the ego’s chitter-chatter. In some circles, meditation is considered nothing less than detoxing the mind. Detoxing the mind should be part of your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth or taking a shower. Its that important!

Stress Tip for the Day:
Establish a healthy boundary today by carving out 5 minutes to sit quietly. Unplug from the world, turn down the lights, close your eyes and think of nothing but your breathing. If you mind wanders, and most likely it will, redirect your thoughts back to your breathing. This is a simple process for learning to detox your mind. The best time to start is today!

Link/Books Worth Noting:
Here is one of many links underlying the importance of a mental detox, enjoy!
http://www.suite101.com/content/how-to-detox-the-mind-a189494

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

Photo of the Day:
My friend, Mark, doing some mental detox at the Botanical Gardens in Denver (way to go, Mark). Mark will be the first person to tell you the importance of meditation, particularly as a self-employed business man and father.

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.

Nov 11
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Food Allergies, GMO’s and Stress

By Uncategorized One Comment

These are the initial symptoms of food allergies: Shortness of breath, flush face, watery eyes, coughing, sniffling, diarrhea, gastro-intestinal problems, hives, etc. Typically, a protein structure in one of the foods you ate is recognized as a foreign pathogen and the immune system goes into an overreaction mode to destroy the invader. The symphony of symptoms described above is your immune system at work. While most allergic reactions take several hours to clear the pathogen from your body; in some cases seeking medical assistance is advised. Until recently, the three most common foods that caused food allergies were eggs, peanuts and milk (lactose intolerance). Wheat became the fourth food associated with these types of problems. Under stress, all food allergies increase significantly. Now with foods created in the laboratory, just about anything can be a pathogen—to nearly anyone. In the words of activist, Jane Goodall, “The children of North America have now become the world’s lab animals on whom to study the long-term effects of eating GMO products.” GMO’s or genetically modified organisms (also known as Frankenfoods) are described as foods that contain DNA from another food source, perhaps another species. Examples include DNA from nuts in corn, DNA of flounder fish in tomatoes, and the herbicide Roundup in the DNA of corn and soybeans. GMO foods are banned in Europe and other parts of the world. As a professor at the University of Colorado, I taught a course in nutrition for 12 years. I brought in many guest speakers, including staff members of the local Whole Foods. Food allergies, we were told, are on the rise dramatically, much of which is related to GMO’s (which are not labeled as such, due to political lobbying by companies such as Monsanto who design these Frankenfoods.) Let the buyer beware!

Stress Tip for the Day:
It is estimated that about 60% or more of foods in your local grocery store are GMO’d (including ingredients in mayonnaise, catsup, and many frozen food items.) Nutrition experts repeated suggest to shop the perimeter of the grocery store, avoiding processed foods in the aisles, and buy organic foods whenever possible. Please become educated about the foods you eat, where they come from and how they are grown. This also includes asking questions of the staff of the restaurants where you frequent about where they purchase their foods. Take time to cultivate a healthy relationship with the foods you eat.

Link/Books Worth Noting:
Most Americans are unaware of the tinkering going on with our foods. Please take the time to educate yourself on this matter. Here are some resources to begin or continue your awareness:
Books: Seeds of Deception and Genetic Roulette by Jeffrey Smith

http://www.greenmuze.com/nurture/gmos/343-frankenfood.html

http://laudyms.wordpress.com/category/gmo-frankenfoods/

A good movie to rent is Food, Inc.

• Quote for the Day:
“Any scientist who tells you they know that GMOs are safe and not to worry about it, is either ignorant of the history of science or is deliberately lying. Nobody knows what the long-term effect will be.” – Geneticist, David Suzuki, giving the 2008 Commonwealth Lecture in London

“As far as genetic engineering for food, that is the great experiment that has failed. They literally have the entire world market against them. All those dreams… the blind will see, the lame will walk… has turned out to be science fiction. They are basically chemical companies selling more chemicals. They’ve been able to spread these herbicide-promoting plants around because it is more convenient for farmers who can just mass-spray their crops. But they’ve given absolutely nothing to the consumer while causing more chemical pollution and contamination.” – Lawyer, Andrew Kimbrell, executive director of the Center for Food Safety (USA)

Photo of the Day:
Whenever possible, buy organic products. This photo was taken at my local farmer’s market with many organic farmers who only sell organically raised produce.

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.

Nov 08
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Monday Morning Humor

By Uncategorized No Comments

Today, we are going to skip the theory and cut to the chase… enjoy!

WHY MEN DON’T HAVE ADVICE COLUMNS

WALTER’S ADVICE COLUMN
Dear Walter,
I hope you can help me here. The other day, I set off for work leaving my husband in the house watching the TV as usual. I hadn’t driven more than a mile down the road when the engine conked out and the car shuddered to a halt. I walked back home to get my husband’s help.

When I got home I couldn’t believe my eyes. He was in our bedroom with the neighbours daughter. I am 32, my husband is 34, and the neighbours daughter is 22. We have been married for ten years. When I confronted him, he
broke down and admitted that they had been having an affair for the past six months.

I told him to stop or I would leave him. He was sacked from his job six months ago and he says he has been feeling increasingly depressed and worthless. I love him very much, but ever since I gave him the ultimatum he has become increasingly distant. He won’t go to counseling and I’m afraid I can’t get through to him anymore.
Can you please help?

Sincerely,
Sheila

Dear Sheila:

A car stalling after being driven a short distance can be caused by a variety of faults with the engine. Start by checking that there is no dirt in the fuel line. If it is clear, check the vacuum pipes and hoses on the intake manifold and also check all grounding wires. If none of these approaches solves the problem, it could be that the fuel pump itself is faulty, causing low delivery pressure to the injectors.

I hope this helps.
Walter

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.”

Link/Book Worth Noting:
This song performed by one of my FAVORITE Irish groups, The High Kings, puts a smile on my face. I hope it does the same for you too. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hl6JWSi8jXo

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Try to find one thing that makes you smile today.

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

• Photo of the Day:
A photo, from a greeting card, to remind us to take life lightly. 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.

Nov 04
Love0

The 100-Mile Diet: Eating From A Sustainable Perspective

By Uncategorized No Comments

Years ago a couple in Vancouver BC, disturbed about the fate of the world, made a challenge to themselves. In an effort to live a sustainable life, they decided to live more simply. Part of this effort included only eating food that was grown and produced within a 100-mile radius from where they lived. As it turned it out it was easier than they thought. Anyone who has ever heard of the “macrobiotic diet” (popular with cancer patients) may be familiar with the concept of eating seasonal food that is locally grown and harvested (including fish and meats). Given the fact that most food is transported over 1,500 miles from source to plate, participating in the 100-mile diet is definitely a step in the right direction to live a sustainable life. Here is something else to consider: When I taught nutrition at the University of Colorado I learned of a concept called the “Circle of Poison.” Because of environmental laws, there are many pesticides that we (the US) are no longer allowed to use. BUT… we are allowed to produce them and sell them overseas, where they then are used on various crops. In turn, these crops are sold back to the US market and you buy them in your local grocery store. You may have noticed that strawberries are available every month of the year these days. When you are buying strawberries out of season (mid to late summer in the US) the cost includes the shipping from their point of origin, which usually takes up a lot of gasoline. The 100-mile diet is a philosophy of life. To live responsibly, start with what you place in your mouth. Your body will thank you.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Do you know where the food you buy comes from? Is the fish wild or farm bred? Are the veggies you buy free of herbicides, fungicides, pesticides and petro-based fertilizers? These are important things to know, because by and large, you cannot wash these chemicals off the surface: They are IN the food. Consider trying the 100-mile diet, if not for a year, perhaps just a week, or at least making an effort to know where your food comes from; what part of the country, or what country? Take some time this week to cultivate your relationship with food.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
If you wish to learn more about the originators of the 100-mile diet, here is a link to the Wikipedia page.. you may also wish to read the book based on their efforts, called The 100-mile Diet: A year of Local Eating, by Alisa Smith and J B MacKinnon
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_100-Mile_Diet

• Quote for the Day:
“Treat the Earth well. It was not given to you by your parents. It was loaned to you by your children.”— Kenyan Proverb

• Photo of the Day:
Farmer’s markets are a great way to shop locally. While many farmer’s markets are coming to a close in some parts of the country, actually meeting the people who grow and harvest your food is a step in the sustainable direction. This photo was taken at my local farmer’s market.

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.

Nov 01
Love0

Turning the Other Cheek…

By anger, compassion, empowerment, forgiveness, stress management coaching No Comments

Last weekend I attended a fund-raising event for the local Human Society. At my table sat several distinguished people from the community. In the course of the dinner conversation, a woman at the table made a derogatory comment about what she perceived as my “liberal perspective” and set off the whole table in voter anger (note: this is not why we were there!) In stress management circles, we have an expression that says: “Respond, don’t react.” Great advice! When confronted with anger, it is best, no matter how hard, to turn the other check. Meeting anger with anger only intensifies the struggle…and no one wins. To be honest, this woman’s rude comment came out of the blue and surprised (and riled) everyone. Often when people demonstrate such uncivil behavior, it is a form of projection. Turning the other cheek is not only a metaphor to act compassionately, but to let go and NOT take on other people’s issues or problems. Turning the other cheek is another way of saying.. “take the high road!” And when all else fails, remember the expression, “He (or she) who angers you….conquers you.” Don’t give your power away today.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Turning the other cheek means responding, not reacting to stress (either anger or fear). Turning the other cheek means taking the high road, which often translates to coming from a place of compassion rather than mirroring the inappropriate behavior coming your way. This approach takes practice, because typically, your first response is to want to put up your defenses and draw fire. As you may have guessed by now, there is a lot of anger out there, voter and otherwise. Please don’t contribute any more to it, and as a reminder, don’t made serious decisions when angry, there is only more mess to clean up later.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
One of the best books I have come across on the topic of anger is The Dance of Anger, by Harriett Learner. Another good book on this topic is, Healing Rage by Ruth King. I highly recommend both of these books.

• Quote for the Day:
“We should be too big to take offense and too noble to give it.” — Abraham Lincoln

• Photo of the Day:
In the spirit of all Humane Societies trying to raise badly needed funds in these tough economic times, a photo of my dog, Logan, seemed like the most appropriate image for today’s theme.

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.

Oct 29
Love0

Here and the Hereafter

By Uncategorized No Comments

There are many fears known to the human condition, but the “mother of all fears” is the fear of death and dying. So powerfully intriguing is this fear (and what happens afterward) that it has been the subject of speculation through books, plays, movies, songs, and artwork for millennia. What happens when we die may seem like a mystery, but indeed, there are many stories that point the way to a clear answer. Since the advancement of technology that has allowed for people, who for all intents and purposes are dead to come back to life, to share their stories. Many (but not all) return with an identical experience of moving through a tunnel of light, seeing loved ones who have passed and feeling a sense of love and euphoria unparalleled here on earth. Some even come back with insights and information that they never could have had know any other way. These stories come from all over the planet, and their consistency should be explored further (see link below). But trying to measure and quantify the spiritual realms is akin to eating soup with a fork; one might get a taste, but nothing substantial as the physical and spiritual worlds (or dimensions) have very little overlap. Those of us who have had a near-death experience return with no fear of death, perhaps because this part of the hero’s journey has been conquered. Spiritual well being reminds us that while we each will experience a physical death, the life of the soul is eternal. Love is the lesson we come to earth to learn. We have nothing to fear at all.

Stress Tip for the Day:
Treat yourself this weekend to see Clint Eastwood’s movie, Hereafter. I was surprised, and delighted, to see that Mr. Eastwood nailed it; (he got it right… in the wrong hands this topic could be grossly compromised.) Bring some Kleenex! As we approach all hallow’s eve, know that this cross-quarter day in the year is regarded as a time when the veils between worlds are the thinnest, making contact with those who have passed the easiest to connect with (Halloween, as western celebration, kind of misses the boat with the costumes and candy). Also, pay attention to your dreams, as the veils between both words are the thinnest in the dream state as well.

Links, Books & Movies Worth Noting:
Currently, there is research being done on the topic of what happens after we die. This link below cites some interesting studies underway.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304248704575574193494074922.html

Photo for the Day:
In celebration of the cross-quarter day of the veils between worlds (Halloween), here is a photo of a pumpkin patch on a country road in Colorado. Happy Halloween!

Quote for the Day:
“You grow to heaven. You don’t go to heaven.” – Edgar Cayce

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.

Oct 25
Love0

Ireland Calling…

By Celtic Music, Celtic spirituality, energy grid meditations, Group trip to Ireland, ley lines No Comments

Plans are underway to travel once again to Ireland next summer… and you are invited. This year’s trip was so magical we have decided to host the second annual “Spirit of Ireland Journey: Ruins, Runes and Tunes.” There is way too much information and excitement to put into a blog entry, so the links below offer more insights to the trip, which by all accounts is a healing journey (on many levels). This trip offers a most authentic experience of Celtic culture, history, music and much, much more. We travel to many sacred sites in the southeast region of the Emerald Isle and participate in many private healing ceremonies combining meditations with music for a most unforgettable experience. The trip is limited to 22 people and we have 10 spots left, if interested, please visit the websites (via the links below). Irish eyes are smiling, Ireland is calling… so start packing your bags.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Rarely do I use this forum for marketing, but since so many people have asked about next year’s trip, I thought I would share this info here: Thanks…..
This trip included many effective coping techniques for stress including guided meditation, music therapy, social support groups, the healing power of prayer, and many more. Even if you don’t have Irish roots, you will recognize the irish spirit in all of us, and that’s no blarney (wink).

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
This first link below will take you to my website page with all the other links that describe the trip;
http://www.brianlukeseaward.net/tripstoireland.html

This second link will take you to my photoblog of the 2010 trip to Ireland.
www.brianlukeseaward.net/Photogallery

• Quote for the Day:
“Magical….That’s exactly the first word I have been using to describe my amazing journey through Ireland. Thank you sooooo much Luke!! I am still high, and I know I will treasure the million different moments we experienced for a very long time! I will write more specifically later…but just wanted to say hi and to express my gratitude to you for being the catalyst for our magical mystery tour! I miss everyone too!”—In appreciation – Anne Kearney.

• Photo of the Day:
The harp is the national symbol of Ireland. Here one of our group members (Fiona) not only brought her harp, but played it here at the Cliffs of Moher. Simply magical. Thanks, Fiona!

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.

Oct 25
Love0

On Demand This! The dark side of Impatience

By impatience, Life Coaching Tips for stress Management No Comments

With the accessibility of practically everything at one’s fingertips these days, have you noticed how people get impatient when things are anything less than immediate? Immediate gratification has become the norm with expectations, but there is a downside: frustration when others don’t keep up to speed. Impatience is a form of anger, and there is much anger today. Research, conduced before the introduction of WiFi, suggests that the average person gets “angry” about 15 times per day. Most likely, that number is even higher now. There is a joke about time management that goes like this… Time is a way of allowing everything NOT to happen at once. Our “On demand” culture has compressed time into a mounting frustration for many people. The immediacy of information, accessibility, 24/7 shopping, and oh so much more has created a culture of impatience. BUT… you have a choice. Your can dive headfirst into the whitewaters of our “On Demand” culture or you can stand by the side of this turbulent river and take only when needed. Please choose carefully.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Take stock of your life today. Are you someone who is impatient, even more so today than years since? Have you taken the “On demand” concept a little too far and started to demand everything your way? Despite what our cultural trends suggest, there is an order and time for everything, even if it doesn’t match your expectations. And if it doesn’t, this would suggest to fine-tune your expectations. If you choose to dive headfirst into the whitewaters of our “On demand” culture, be prepared to be thrashed by the waves that show only indifference to your demands. Remember technology is supposed to serve you, not the other way around. Remember also the art of balance in living your life.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
This link has absolutely nothing to do with impatience, but everything to do with humor, which is a great coping technique for stress. Enjoy!
http://www.hulu.com/watch/184577/saturday-night-live-moms-on-facebook

• Quote for the Day:
 “Adopt the pace of nature, her secret is patience.” — Albert Einstein

• Photo of the Day:
While contemplating a photograph to post with this blog entry, I mulled over the expression “glacial pace,” which then got me to thinking about glaciers, and voila, I had a photo of one: The glacial ice cap of Greenland with my impetuous tour guide posing for this shot. 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.

Oct 21
Love0

Recalculating….

By Conscience, Life Coaching Tips for stress Management No Comments

If you have ever driven toward a destination with a GPS device and made a wrong turn, you know the response (often in a woman’s voice)…“Recalculating.” Being picked up at the Orlando Airport this week to speak at a conference, my friend told me she got lost on the way… even with the Garmin GPS. “Recalculating, recalculating, recalculating.” We both laughed. Perhaps it was no coincidence that my talk was about behavior change; letting go of stressful habits in favor of non-stress related behaviors— I could have called my talk, “Recalculating… the mind.” During one of the breaks, someone said to me, “Gee, wouldn’t it be great if there was a Garmin GPS “recalculating command” feature for humans when we are about to make a mistake— RECALCULATING!” I smiled and said, “There is! It’s your conscience, but few people actually listen to it.” We sharpen the edge of the Conscience sword at a young age, learning right from wrong. But there are many bad behaviors we pick up from family and friends that we don’t even know are stress producing, whether its survival skills living with an alcoholic parent or simply wanting to be accepted by our peers. We don’t know their bad behaviors until we become lost, or more aptly put, spiritually adrift. Indeed, we have a GPS device of sorts in our mind. We just need to listen to it, not ignore it.

Stress Tip for the Day:

I have talked to friends who own GPS devices who become so reliant on them that they return home and have no idea where they actually drove. Simply stated, no memory of the actual driving was imprinted on the brain. Metaphorically speaking, we can become so numb to the voice of our conscience that we walk around like zombies, just as people do the same in driving situations. The common phrase is “being clueless.” This is the reason why meditation is such an important skill to practice: Learn to become the observer in your life. Allow your conscience the opportunity to do its work.

Links, Books & Movies Worth Noting

If you ever saw the Disney movie, Pinocchio, then most likely you remember the character, Jiminy Cricket. In the original story, there was no cricket. Disney made him up to personify Pinocchio’s conscience. The movie is worth watching again (as Joseph Campbell reminded us about the power of myth) to bring us back home.

Photo for the Day:

I too, have a Garmin GPS device, and if I was home, rather in Florida, I would try to take a photo of it for today’s image. Instead, here is a photo of a white crane (not far from my ocean front hotel room) in pursuit of his dinner last night. From what I could tell, he didn’t need to recalculate any moves.

Quote for the Day:

“Conscience is man’s compass.” — Vincent van Gogh

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.

Oct 20
Love0

Friends in Need: The Buffer Theory

By friends buffer theory, stress and social support groups No Comments

There are a multitude of coping techniques to successfully deal with stress, but one that tops the list is this: A strong support group made up of quality friends. As the expression goes, “No man (or woman) is an island!” Humans are social animals and we all need social support. As family structures continue to erode with divorce and various forms of relocation, friends serve an ever greater role in helping up cope with stress. Dozens of research studies now confirm what we all know intuitively: Good friends help buffer us from the crushing blows of stress. Sociologists are a bit concerned with the increasing number of virtual friends edging out the number of actual friends and face-to-face social encounters. Not long ago, friends (and neighbors) would bring covered dishes of food over to one’s house as a sign of support for those in need of comfort. Today many people don’t even know their neighbors, yet they have up to 500 friends on Facebook. Without a doubt, friends help us deal with the stress of life.

Stress Tip for the Day:
Show your support to one or more of your friends who are going through a stressful time. Declare this week: Take a friend to lunch week Call them up and talk in real time. Invite them over for dinner. Meet up with them for coffee, tea or a special session of ice cream therapy. Do something more than leaving a six-word sentence on Facebook. Go beyond the virtual. Get real with your friends. And….consider adding someone new to your circle of friends as well. Take time to cultivate your support group. It will prove to be the best investment you will ever make.

Links or Books Worth Noting:
Speaking of friends, a friend sent me this link… and I share it with you.. just for your LOTR fans a good and humorous parody. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yqVD0swvWU

Photo for the Day:
Several members of the 2010 Spirit of Ireland Journey group reunited for a reunion at the 2010 Mountain Retreat in Estes Park last weekend. A special bond was created among all the participants of the Emerald Isle trip, so much so, that they wanted to reunite for an encore visit in Colorado. This photo was taken prior to the concert (performed by Dan Sebranek and Mary Cortesi) who, along with yours truly, sang a set of Irish tunes including Will Ye Go Lassie Go and The Wild Rover( No, Ney Never). For sure, it was a night… and a weekend to remember.

Quote for the Day:
“I have friends in overalls whose friendship I would not swap for the favor of the kings of the world.” —Thomas A. Edison

”A sympathetic friend can be quite as dear as a brother.” —Homer

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.

Oct 14
Love0

Congrats to Chile for a Fantastic Rescue

By Uncategorized No Comments

Today we honor the 33 men who were rescued from trapped over two months in a mine in Chile. Today we honor the return of the hero on the hero’s journey! Stress comes in many way, not the least of which is being confined in a small, crowded space more than two miles under the earth for a prolonged period of time. If you are having a bad day today, consider what these guys went through. Let this day (not to mention their ordeal) serve as a reminder of our highest potential.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
No matter how bad your situation might be, no matter how dire things might seem, know that there is always a way out, with help from friends, family, colleagues, even strangers and of course the divine, whatever you conceive this to be. Never give up. The triumph of the human spirit is an inherent quality in all of us!

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
If you haven’t seen this footage, check out this youtube link.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3n6q4-Nar1s

• Quote for the Day:
“Giving up is the final solution to a temporary problem.” —Gerta Weiss, Nazi concentration camp survivor.

• Photo of the Day:
I took this photo of the Chilean flag while down in the Patagonia region of Chile. Today we honor the lives of all those people who made this rescue possible and we celebrate in the triumph of the human spirit as we celebrate the hero’s return home.

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.

Oct 12
Love0

Protect Your Adrenal Glands!

By adrenal gland stress, caffeine and stress No Comments

The adrenal glands are called the “stress glands.” They are known for this reason because they produce a host of hormones that prepare you for fight or flight. In essence, the adrenal glands are your protection against stress. You have two adrenal glands and each one sits on top of each of your kidneys. In addition to secreting epinephrine and nor-epinephrine, they secrete Cortisol, which is known as THE stress hormone. Dur to chronic stress, many people today are walking around with adrenal gland exhaustion; a name given to explain fatigue and lack of energy, dizziness with standing, mood and memory problems, sugar cravings, abdominal cramps, food sensitivities and possibly a suppressed immune system. When the adrenal glands fail, due to overuse syndrome, the name given to this scenario is Addison’s Disease, and this is NOT GOOD! The message for the day is this: protect your adrenals!

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Caffeine contains a substance that promotes the release of several stress chemicals in your body. It is commonly thought that a high intake of caffeine is associated with adrenal fatigue. It takes your body 8 hours to metabolize one cup of coffee. A 16 oz of Starbuck coffee contains 330 mg of caffeine, as much as 10 cans of Coke or Pepsi. The stress tip for the day is to give up caffeine for a few days and give your adrenal glands a break (remember caffeine can also be found in tea, soda and chocolate!) Here is a suggestion: consider drinking licorice tea. Licorice is considered a healthy herb for the adrenals (and in my humble opinion, Stash make the best licorice tea!)

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Here are some more links to the topic of adrenal exhaustion.

http://www.drnorthrup.com/womenshealth/healthcenter/topic_details.php?topic_id=94

http://www.mcvitamins.com/adrenal-exhaustion.htm

• Quote for the Day:
“I put instant coffee in a microwave oven and almost went back in time. ” —Steven Wright

• Photo of the Day:
While in Vancouver, BC a while ago, a friend ordered a latte and I snapped a photo of it; a reminder of the caffeine addiction we have. It reminded me of a coffee store in Minneapolis, MN who’s mission statement read: “Our mission is to caffinate the world.” 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.

Oct 11
Love0

The Pursuit of Happiness

By eustress., happiness, joy, Life Coaching Tips for stress Management, Positive Psycholgy No Comments

Fear and anger may be the most recognized, if not common, stress emotions, but let us not forget that there is another emotion associated with stress, specifically eustress. This emotion is joy, also referred to by some as happiness. The emerging field of positive psychology has placed joy and happiness as a big X on the psychological treasure map. The search for happiness has begun in earnest in all corners of the globe. A quick look at the titles in the self-help section of any bookstore, from authors including the Dalai Lama, Harvard professors and HBO comedians, reveals that the pursuit of happiness is a hot commodity in the age of 21st century stress. Simply stated: Joy is the antitheses of distress. While some researchers in the field of positive psychology insist that joy is the anticipation of an event, spiritual luminaries suggest that happiness is a state of living in the present moment. Happiness, however, isn’t just a psychological issue. It appears to be a leading economic indicator as well, which may explain why experts in the field of economics also contribute significant amounts of research to the happiness data collection. Interestingly, the Asian country of Bhutan measures their country’s growth not just in GDP (Gross Domestic Product) but GDH (Gross Domestic Happiness). Other countries, such as England and France are considering similar measures. Is happiness a function of nature or nurture? Experts suggest that it is combination of both.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
The pursuit of happiness is an internal quest. No amount of external possessions or experiences can create long-term happiness. Nor can money buy happiness, though lord knows, people surely try this method. First and foremost, happiness is a perception—and we have the choice to choose our own thoughts. In the words of Abraham Lincoln, “People are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” Can you jumpstart your happiness quotient? Yes! Start by making a list of all the things you are grateful for in your life. Don’t stop till you reach 100. Being of service to others in need is also a great way to find balance your scale of emotions. Finally, be on the lookout for things that make you smile each day. Take time to nurture the nature of your happiness!

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
This link below is based on a book called The Happiness Project. While there is no specific recipe for happiness, this website has some interesting information. Please check it out:

http://www.happiness-project.com/

• Quote for the Day:
“The Constitution guarantees the pursuit of happiness. You have to catch it yourself.”— Ben Franklin

• Photo of the Day:
I consider myself a pretty happy guy, but there are moments in my life that rank up there as unadulterated eurphoria. Just last month, while swimming in the South Pacific— near the island of Moorea, I had the pleasure to be joined by a baby humpback whale. UNREAL! I am still on Cloud #9 from that experience. Here is the proof. 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.

Oct 07
Love0

Stress and Impatience

By anger, Coping With Stress, impatience, Life Coaching Tips for stress Management No Comments

In this age of instant gratification, there is a corresponding increase in impatience. The ability to call up information in seconds, the ability to access virtually anybody through voice mail, email or text message, the ability to access money through an ATM machine or nuke something quickly in the microwave; these are just some of the many examples that bring the world to our fingertips in a second. So when things don’t appear instantly, people tend to get upset (for the best example, look no further than today’s political scene). Impatience is a form of anger, perhaps today the most common form of anger. Every episode of anger begins with an unmet expectation. Impatience is filled with unmet expecations. Experts refer to Americans as the “entitlement generation,” because by and large, we have such great expectations for immediacy, most of which come down to a selfish nature, all of which sow the seeds for stress, if we let it.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Are you an impatient person? Do you have high expectations for how life is supposed to be? Do you get easily flummoxed when things don’t happed quickly? Do you tend to lose your temper at other people’s inability to do things quickly? Stop and take a look at your expectations throughout the course of the day today. Take time to fine tune your expectations. In no uncertain terms, patience is a virtue.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
This video link has nothing to do with impatience, but everything to do with inappropriate behavior: cyber bullying. I was astonished to hear a college student on the news yesterday say the students need to be told (educated) what is appropriate to post on the internet. Apparently, (and quite sadly) what seems like obvious manners, civility and politeness is something not being taught by parents. The senseless death of the Rutger’s University Student last week was one of several deaths due to cyberbullying. Please take a moment to watch this video clip:

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=592846987806

• Quote for the Day:
“I was imprisoned in China for 6 and a half years, falsely accused of being a spy. How did I surive? In China we are taught patience. I realized I had many years to practice it.” —Nien Cheng

• Photo of the Day:
While it might have been appropriate to have a photo of a someone banging on an ATM machine for their money, or yelling “Hurry up” at a microwave machine, I thought a relaxaing photo of Machu Picchu, with some Llamas might be nice to look at today. Enjoy! (By the way, it must have taken a LOT of patience to build this, not to mention the Inca trails to get to it.

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.

Oct 04
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Island Time: Stress Management Polynesian Style

By Life Coaching Tips for stress Management, Relaxation No Comments

You notice something immediately when you arrive on an island, whether it’s in the South Pacific, the Caribbean or even off the coast of Maine; the pace of life is much slower—as it should be. The pace of life in the islands even has a name; “island time.” There is no rush to get anywhere. There is no rush to do anything. In fact, there is no urgency whatsoever! Things are taken down several pegs from the rapid pace of city life, for that matter, suburban life, and most likely, country life as well. People look a bit younger than their true age, because they have learned to pace themselves for the distance of their lives. In working on some new revision for the 7th edition of my textbook, Managing Stress, I came across a study done by Expedia.com on vacations. As it turns out, many people never make it “To the islands,” or anywhere else for that matter. The reason being….They cancel their vacations because they feel the need to stay at work. Expedia calls their annual study, The International Vacation Deprivation™ Survey (www.vacationdeprivation.com.) If you eavesdrop on people’s conversations these days, most likely you will hear people making reference (not only to Staycations, but…) to time speeding up. It’s an illusion. It is only our racing minds that make time seem like its running away at light speed.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
You don’t have to pack your bags and fly to the islands (any island) to adopt the pace of “island time.” All you need do is recognize the pace of life you are living and reduce your speed. Adopting “Island Time” includes driving slower (the actual speed limit). It means talking slower—and listening after you get done speaking. It means eating slower and chewing your food before swallowing. It also means just sitting down for a stretch and enjoying the present moment, rather than reliving the past or worrying about the future. Island time is an attitude that brings us back to our natural state of being., and after all, we ARE human beings, not human doings!

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Speaking of time, this is a pretty cool clock, and most likely unlike one you have ever seen before.
http://www.poodwaddle.com/worldclock.swf

For those who might be interested in my island time experience, here is a link to the draft of an article I wrote about my trip to Tahiti for the online magazine, Authentic Living.

www.authenticliving.com/journey/polynesian-paradise.html

• Quote for the Day:
“If life gives you limes, make margaritas.” —Jimmy Buffet

• Photo of the Day:
This photo was taken while on a drive around the island of Bora Bora. Many small islands (called motu’s) surround the main island including this one. 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.

Sep 30
Love1

Sarcasm: To Tear Flesh!

By Life Coaching Tips for stress Management One Comment

Humor is a great way to reduce stress, but there is one type of humor you should avoid at all costs; sarcasm. If you were to look up the word sarcasm in the dictionary, you would see this definition: “To tear flesh!” That’s what sarcasm means. While a sarcastic comment may be funny, if the comment is directed at you, it hurts! Sarcasm is a latent (unconscious) form of anger. People use sarcams in an underhanded way to seek revenge. Many people who use sarcasm mask their anger with a quick barb and a laugh. Unlike other types of humor that reduce stress, sarcasm only promotes it. Sarcasm is rampant in the American culture, particularly at the worksite. Sarcasm can also be seen in the media as well. The comedian Rosanne is renowned for using sarcasm in her stand-up shows, even her TV show contained much sarcasm. She’s not alone in these efforts. The Dilbert cartoon strip is often called “Biting Humor.” Life, in turn, imitates art and sarcasm perpetuates throughout the culture. But this is not an index of a healthy culture, nor is sarcasm a healthy way to deal with stress.

• Stress Tip For The Day:
Consciously observe your thoughts and words this week for sarcasm. Ask yourself how often you use sarcasm. If and when you find sarcasm streaming from your lips, stop and ask yourself “What am I angry about?” Ultimatley, unresolved anger is a threat to your physical health. Unresolved anger must be resolved. When you hear other people being sarcastic, remind yourself that these people are angry. If possible, ask they why? (particularly if they include your spouse, friends or co-workers).

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
I couldn’t find any worthwhile links on the topic of sarcasm, though there are many that flaunt it. Instead, I opted to include here an inspirational graduation speech by Steve Jobs at Stamford University. Enjoy!

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

• Quotes for the Day:
“He (or she) who seeks revenge should dig two graves.” —Anonymous.

• Photo of the Day:
I didn’t plan on swimming with sharks while in Tahiti last month. They just kind of showed up. Thank God they didn’t like human flesh (as a rule, black tipped sharks never attack humans). But other sharks do! This seemed like an appropriate photo for today’s theme.

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.

Sep 27
Love0

A Random Lesson From Katy

By Uncategorized No Comments

Katy is a dear, lifelong friend of mine from my college days at the University of Maine (Orono). Every now and then we get together for a weekend visit. These weekends are always memorable, but one in particular (years ago) stands out. We were walking down a busy city street when Katy and I both spotted a homeless man pan-handling for change. Long before we arrived as his donation bucket, I had explained to Katy a previous experience when a beggar took my donation and headed right into the nearest liquor store—with glee. I was a bit stunned. “Once bitten, twice shy,” I said. Katy looked at me quizically, pulled out at few bucks from her purse, placed them in this man’s hand and smiled. As we continued to walk on, Katy explained to me that random acts of kindness are not necessarily done for the recipient. They are done also for the person doing the random act. “A gift is a gift, she said. “It’s not for you to determine how any gift should be acted upon. Its all about unconditional love. The purpose of random acts of kindness is to open two hearts, not one.” Katy was right! Any act of kindness opens two hearts. At a time when many hearts are closed by either fear or anger, consider the power (and freedom) of an open heart— Yours!

•Stress Tip for The Day:
No matter how bad off you may have it, there is always someone who has it worse. Consider doing a random act of kindness today, and often. Open your heart (and possibly your wallet or purse) to someone who is less fortunate than you. Given the economy, there is a large pool to choose from. Or consider going through your closet, selecting a nice piece of clothing you don’t wear as much these days and make a donation to Good Will or the Salvation Army this week. And the next time you see someone approach you begging for money or standing on a street corner with a sign move past any fear or judgement and open your heart, even if all you can give is a smile and direct eye contact. Respect to a fellow human being is also an act of kindness.

Links/Books Worth Noting:
As you might expect, there is an organization devoted to the concept of Random Acts of Kindness… Please check it out…

http://www.actsofkindness.org/

Quote of the Day:

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” ~Aesop

“Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the and the blind can see.” ~Mark Twain

Photo of the Day:
“Who Me?” Here is a photo of the one and only Katy, and I think this was taken on the day of the random act of kindness in D.C. Here’s to you, Katy! Thanks for being such a great sage!

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.