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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

http://www.lifebalanceinstitute.com/

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

Have a great rest of the summer!
Brian Luke Seaward

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.