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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

Quote for the Day:

An Old Irish Blessing

May the sun always shine
on your window pane,

May a rainbow be certain
to follow each rain,

May the hand of a friend
always be near you,

May God fill your heart
with gladness to cheer you,

May your blessings be many
to the sunshine above you

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

It’s admirable to be “driven” with work, even pleasure at times. Yet a serious demeanor in all situations eventually becomes a noose around one’s own neck. The ego’s role is that of protector, yet in an effort for domination and control, the ego puts on a very serious face in the hopes for a promotion to CEO. Wearing a mask of serious intent often reveals high drama, perfectionism and control issues. While this content may make for interesting TV viewing, not so in real life! To be honest, it gets boring fast when there is no character development. People who can engage in self-deprecating humor (without sacrificing one’s self-esteem) are the real stars of the show. Learning to take yourself lightly when things don’t go right, or when the unexpected happens at the worst possible moment is an admirable skill in coping with stress. Taking oneself lightly (without the sharpness of sarcasm) is a prime example of learning to walk in balance, also known as “grace under pressure.”

• Stress Tip(s) for the Day:
Perhaps Shakespeare was right: All the word’s a stage and we are merely actors upon it. If this is true, can you distinguish yourself from the actor your play? All reality show jokes aside, if your life was portrayed on the screen today (TV or the silver screen) would it be a drama or situation comedy? A boring documentary? How is your character development progressing? Can you laugh at yourself when you make mistakes, or things that don’t go as perfectly planned? Now is the time to start laughing! When all else fails, ask yourself this question: Will any of this make a difference a year from now?

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
This link is well known for showing the failure rate of the human species (note this site is not for everyone)
http://failblog.org/

• Photo of the Day:
The cold morning air is a perfect time for hot air balloons and I see many of them while jogging after sunrise, including this morning. This particular photo was taken a few years ago from my backyard looking toward Rocky Mountain National Park.

• Quote for the Day:
“Angels fly because they take themselves lightly. When We do the same we allow our spirits to soar.”— Anonymous

“I am thankful for laughter, except when milk comes out of my nose.” —Woody Allen

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.

Once again we have decided to skip the theory and go straight for the application with some jokes for today. Enjoy!

One Day at the Pearly Gates
St. Mark has been guarding the Pearly Gates for a long time, and it’s well past time for St. Peter to relieve him. St. Peter hasn’t come by, so finally Jesus takes pity on him and takes over. While He’s there, an old man comes up to the gates.

“Welcome to Heaven,” says Jesus, “Tell me a bit about yourself.”

“Well,” says the old man, “when I was alive, I was a carpenter. I had a son, and for a while he was a carpenter too, helping about the shop, but he left home. Made quite a name for himself, for a while, popular with thousands of people, but in the end… they killed him… One of his most recognizable features are the holes in his hands and feet.”

Jesus stared searchingly at the old man. “Father?” he asked.

The old man stared back in disbelief.
“Pinnochio? Is that you?!”

Downsizing
A company, feeling it is time for a shakeup, hires a new CEO. This new boss is determined to rid the company of all slackers.

On a tour of the facilities, the CEO notices a guy leaning on a wall. The room is full of workers and he wants to let them know he means business! The CEO walks up to the guy and asks, “And how much money do you make a week?” Undaunted, the young fellow looks at him and replies, “I make $200 a week. Why?”

The CEO hands the guy $1,000 in cash and screams, “Here’s a week’s pay and benefits, now GET OUT and don’t come back!”

Surprisingly, the guy takes the cash with a smile, says “Yes sir! Thank you, sir!” and leaves.

Feeling pretty good about his first firing, the CEO looks around the room and asks, “Does anyone want to tell me what that slacker did here?”

With a sheepish grin, one of the other workers mutters, “Pizza delivery guy from Domino’s.”

The Good Son
An old man lived alone in Idaho. He wanted to spade his potato garden, but
it was very hard work. His only son, Bubba, who always helped him was in
prison for armed robbery. The old man wrote a letter to his son and
mentioned his predicament:

“Dear Bubba, I’m feeling pretty low because it looks like I won’t be able
to plant my potato garden this year. I’ve gotten too old to be digging up
a garden plot. If you were here, my troubles would be over. I know you
would dig the plot for me. Love, Dad”

A few days later the old man received a letter from his son: “Dear Dad,
For HEAVEN’S SAKE DAD, don’t dig up the GARDEN! That’s where I buried the
GUNS and the MONEY! Love, Bubba”

At 4:00am the next morning, a dozen FBI agents and local Police officers
showed up and dug up the entire area. After finding nothing they
apologized to the old man and left. That same afternoon the old man
received another letter from his son:

“Dear Dad, Go ahead and plant the potatoes now. It’s the best I could do
under the circumstances. Love, Bubba”

• Stress Tip for the Day:
Abraham Lincoln once said people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be. Humor isn’t an emotion, it’s a perception. So consider adopting a perception (or attitude) of light heartedness. Try to find one humorous thing a day and most likely you will find many things to bring smile to your face.

• Quote for the Day:
“ Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.” — Victor Borge

Photo of the Day:
One of my former students found a pad of paper and gave me a sheet from it! 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.

What do you get when you combine two specific amino acids (protein structures) together? In one special combination you get an incredibly sweet taste, 100 times sweeter than sugar—more taste with less calories, Who Knew? The end result of this chemistry experiement is Nutrasweet, also known as Aspartame. I have been told by many sources that more complaints have been registered with the FDA about Aspartame than any other product, yet it still remains on the market. The problem with this substance is that documentation reveals serious health problems, ranging from alleged brain tumors to symptoms mimicking Multiple Sclerosis, not to mention memory problems, and a whole host of cognitive problems (today kids dink sodas like (and in lieu of) water. In his groundbreaking book, Excitotoxins, Russell Blaylock, MD defends the research on this “toxin” found in soft drinks, chewing gum, toothpaste, and many, many other food sources. Blaylock contends that as an excitotoxin, it crosses the blood brain barrier, leading to all kinds of health problems. Having taught nutrition at the University of Colorado for over a decade, I brought in many guest speakers, ALL OF WHOM spoke on the dangers of Aspartame and begged my students NOT to consume it! They recommend the natural product stevia instead. Several of my students added their their fathers were pilots for major airlines—all of whom were told NOT to drink ANYTHING with Aspartame, as it effects cognitive skills while flying. The bottom line is that this product is a stress to the mind-body and should be avoided at all costs. MSG is also an excitoxin and Blaylock suggests to avoid this as well (interesting to note that due to public concern about MSG, food labels (check out the condiments in your fridge) now simply state “Spice” or “Natural flavorings.”

• Stress Tip for the Day:
The best thing you can do for your health is to STOP consuming any foods that contain thess products, particularly diet soda. Monsanto, the company that makes Aspartame is changing the name (perhaps as a marketing ploy to confuse consumers). Its new name is AminoSweet. Let the buyer beware! Many people find Nutrasweet addictive, insisting that it’s very difficult to give it up. One suggestion is to switch to ice tea (without a sweetener!) Below is a link to an interview with Dr. Blaylock. Please consider reading his book, Excitotoxins as well.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Here is one link (and there are hundreds) on the topic of this dangerous substance. This link includes interviews with Dr. Blaylock. Please take the time to educate yourself on this important issue.
http://www.whale.to/w/excitotoxins.html
I also recommend you get your hands on the movie, Food Inc.

• Quote for the Day:
“If you want to avoid obesity, metabolic syndrome, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer, and if you don’t want to make your cancer more aggressive, then you need to stay away from these products.” —Russell Blaylock, M.D.

“Nobody has ever said it better than Dr. James Bowen who told the FDA years ago that aspartame is mass poisoning of the American public and more than 70+ countries of the world.”

Photo of the Day:
On a flight back from Washington D.C. a few weeks ago I had a layover in Chicago. Looking out the window, with camera in hand, I snapped a photo of the Windy City at her finest. Enjoy!
(this photo has absolutely nothing to do with today’s topic, but it’s a nice photo and… I didn’t have a photo of St. Louis, where Monsanto is located!)

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

There is much buzz in a great many social circles that the world is coming to an end, and soon. NOT! This news is nothing new. For thousands of years people have been forecasting the end of times, sometimes with specific dates; most recently with Y2K, and now with the end of the Mayan Calendar (12/21/12) with a REALLY bad Hollywood movie capitalizing on people’s fears. The world is filled with worrywarts, naysayers and fear-mongers. Gloom and doom end-of-the-world scenarios are nothing more than people projecting their prolonged grieving/fears on to others (fear is a great way to control people too!) Don’t buy into it! It is best to ignore these people—and their negative ways. Negativity only breeds more negativity. Conversely, the world is also filled with bright, happy, compassionate people who work hard to make a difference in the world, one person at a time. These are the people you want to associate with and enjoy their company.

Stress Tip of the Day:
Rather than focusing on the end of the world, consider focusing on living your life to the fullest. Take time to appreciate all the great things that life has to offer. Give thanks and carry and attitude of gratitude! Learn to live your life with no regrets. Tell family and friends that you love them (as often as possible). Live responsibility, sustainability, yet at the same time, enjoy life to the fullest, and all its simple pleasures. Walk on the sunny side of the street! If 2012 means anything, it begs us to shift our consciousness from a fear-based, ego-driven lifestyle to a spiritual consciousness of collaboration and responsibility. You can start right now! Be part of the positive change!

Links/Books Worth Noting:
There are many books (and perhaps even more websites) on the topic of 2012. I have even endorsed one such book, 2012 and the Galactic Center, by Chris Page. A friend from Canada visited me a few weeks ago and we discussed the topic of 2012 quite a bit. He left me with a house warming gift, a book titled The Mystery of 2012 (SoundsTrue), a collection of essays from a score of some of the world’s brightest luminaries. If you REALLY want to know about what the Mayans thought of 2012 and see where some think we are going as a species, please consider reading this book. I highly recommend it!

Photo of the Day:
This image is a photo from space of the Iceland volcano spewing its cloud of dust and ash. Having been to Iceland in 2008, I learned that the whole island is one big volcano that typically lets off steam every 10 years. It may be a nuisance to people flying in and out of Europe, however, it is NOT the end of the world!

Quote for the Day:
“We are approaching an epic shift of consciousness, one that we cannot turn away from; one that we must engage in fully. The world isn’t coming to an end. This is the birthing process of consciousness, one without fear and everyone is invited.”—Barbara Marx-Hubbard

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 present moment is a gift that few people choose to open. Instead they dwell on the past or the future. The past brings with it feelings of guilt for things we did or perhaps didn’t do. The future consumes us with things that might happen. There is much worry in the hearts and minds of people today; finances, relationships—the list is nearly endless. Worry sows the seeds for anxiety (and for some, panic attacks). Worry is called the “immobilizing emotion” because it keeps you locked in fear, like a car spinning its wheels, but going nowhere. Some people view the act of worrying as “caring.” Moms can be really good at this. Worrying, however, is not the same thing as caring! Worrying is a state of non-productivity. While you can plan for the future (and this is a great strategy) worrying about the future is a waste of emotional energy. Worrying is stress prone behavior and it’s time to let this go.

• Stress Tip for the Day
Do you waste a lot of your emotional energy worrying about things that might or might not happen? Are you the kind of person who is immobilized by fear and worry? Differentiate between worrying and planning for the future. Mark Twain had a great line about worry. He said, “I’m an old man now, and I have known a great many problems in my life—most of which never happened.” Learn to live in the present moment!

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
The following link helps you get out of the worry business:
Please check it out:
http://www.anxietyculture.com/worry.htm

• Quote for the Day:
“Worry is like sitting in a rocking chair. It gives you something to do, but it doesn’t get you anywhere.”—Anonymous

Photo of the Day:
Springtime in the Rockies is nothing less than amazing. Blue skies, flowering cherry, plum and crabapple trees and snow covered mountains. I took this photo this morning while on a walk with my dog, Logan. Simply magical! THIS is living in the present moment! 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.

Dentists are noticing an alarming increase these days in people who are grinding (gnashing) their teeth. The medical term is called “tempro-mandibular joint dysfunction” (TMJ or TMJD). Most people who have TMJ don’t even know they do this behavior, because the grinding takes place while they’re fast asleep (if you have ever heard someone doing this late at night, the sound would wake the dead, but oddly enough the person doing it cannot hear it!). TMJ can also manifest as a change in one’s bite, thus affecting the position of one’s teeth in the mouth. Hence, this can cause all kinds of dental (and health) complications. While professionals in the dental field will recommend mouth guards to prevent the damage to dental bone tissue, be aware that TMJ is known in stress management circles as the symptom of unresolved (suppressed) anger issues (often latent anger). Mouth guards for TMJ don’t resolve the cause of the problem!

Stress Tip of the Day:
One sign of TMJ is waking up each morning with a headache, and of course tension in the jaw muscles. Your dentist can certainly tell through x-rays (but you have to actually go to the dentist first!) If you suffer from TMJ, consider addressing both the symptoms AND the cause of the problem. Biofeedback is a great method for learning to decrease muscle tension in the jaw muscles. Classical (5-element) acupuncture is also highly recommended and in many cases can do wonders). First and foremost, work to uncover the source of mismanaged anger and then resolve it asap!

Links/Books Worth Noting:
One book I highly recommend on the topic of anger is Harriet Learner’s The Dance of Anger. Another book to add to your library is Forgive for Good, by Frank Luskin.

Photo of the Day:
Having just returned from a trip to Washington D.C. to speak at the 104th Annual Conference of the American Association of Orthodontists, I managed to do a little sight-seeing in our Nation’s Capitol including a nighttime stroll by the White House. Lots of stress here! I am not sure if Obama has TMJ, but have you seen how much Presidents age while in office?

Quote for the Day:
“The body becomes the battlefield for the war-games of the mind.” — Brian Luke Seaward

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

It is commonly known among scientists that energy is measured by vibrations per second (also known as Hertz or Hz). Various energies of the body can be measured in Hz as well, including brain waves and heart rhythms. Alpha waves of the brain are measured around 8 Hz, indicating a very relaxed state of consciousness. The planet itself has a vibration (known as the Schumann Resonance) measured at around 8 Hz. Speculation suggests that 8Hz is the vibration of health, vitality and relaxation. Various vibrations on the energy spectrum are categorized. Researchers have known for quite some time that Extremely Low Frequencies (ELFs) 20-60 Hz, can have a negative effect on human physiology (specifically cancerous tumors, insomnia via compromised brain chemistry) through the principle of “entrainment.” Electrical current is measured at the ELF of 60 Hz. Microwave ovens and cell phones operate at an ELF not in a harmonic resonance with any aspect of the human energy field. The bottom line is that cell phones compromise the integrity of your health, from brain physiology to the immune system. Research studies describing the harmful effects of ELFs have been around for decades. New research regarding the harmful effects of cell phone and cordless phones use are now coming to light, but not without controversy (talk may be cheap, but there is a lot of money in this industry).

Stress Tip of the Day:
Do you choose convenience over your health? Many people do, particularly with regard to cell phone use. If you knew that repeated and prolonged cell phone use caused brain tumors, decreased production of the sleep hormone, melatonin, decreased sperm count in men, altered brain chemistry at the blood brain barrier and suppressed the immune system, would you still use it? Today people have abandoned land line phones for the convenience of wireless communication. The question is at what expense? There was a time when people only used these phones for emergencies. Perhaps a return to this modus operandi is not a bad idea. FYI: WiFi hookups in the home also operate at ELF’s not harmonious with the human energy field. Let the user beware!
Links/Books to Note:
The link below comes from an extremely well researched article published in GQ magazine and featured on many NPR programs, including This American Life, Living on Earth and All Things Considered. Please take the time to read this article (and the second article I found in Harpers Magazine.

http://www.gq.com/cars-gear/gear-and-gadgets/201002/warning-cell-phone-radiation

http://www.harpers.org/archive/2010/04/hbc-90006937

Years ago Robert Becker, MD wrote the acclaimed book, Cross Currents. Although it was written before the invention of cell phones, the content regarding ELFs is timeless. I feel this book should be read by everyone.

Quote of the Day:
The term “entrainment” was coined by scientist Christian Huggens (the person who discovered the rings around Saturn). As the creator of the pendulum clock, he was the first to notice how the energy of vibrations effect various objects (e.g., women who live or work together who begin to menstruate together). Here is a definition of entrainment: The mutual phase-locking of like-frequencies causing the object of lesser vibration to match the object of greater (stronger) vibration.

Photograph of the Day:
This photo was sent to me for a presentation on cyber addictions. Perhaps this photo says it all.

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.

Do you remember, not too long ago, when people (like Walter Cronkite) assured us that with all of this new technology, we would have LOTS more leisure time? Well, do you have more leisure time today? Most people don’t, perhaps for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the ball and chain known as technology (e.g., cell phones, email, twitter, etc). Sadly, many people bring this stuff with them on vacations, never fully separating from work, never fully engaging in play. NOT good! Playtime is essential for our health, no matter what age you are. Playtime is essential for your right brain as well. Balance is the key!

• Stress Tip for the Day
Today’s stress tip invites you to take some time to engage the right side of your brain and play. A game of scrabble, a jigsaw puzzle, ultimate frizbee.. (exercises in the link below) you decide, but whatever you decide, go play!

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
This link will show you some right brain exercises (play). Enjoy!

http://www.urbantulsa.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A25597

• Quote for the Day:
“You’re never to old to live a happy childhood.” Tom Robbins (author)

Photo of the Day:
I just returned from a short photo expedition to Sanibel Island, FL where I spent some time photographing dolphins. Dolphins really know how to play. 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.

Once again, we will skip the theory today and cut to the chase of humor therapy: The following are real headlines (watch those misplaced modifiers) observed in various newspapers across the country over the years. Enjoy!

Homeless Man Under House Arrest
Tiger Woods Plays with Own Balls, Nike Says
Statistics show that teen pregnancy drops significantly after age 25
Tornado Rips through cemetery, Hundreds dead
Man Struck by lightening faces battery charges
Condom truck tips, spills load
Missippi’s Literacy Program Shows Improvement
New Study of Obesity Looks for Larger Test Group
Astronaut Takes Blame for Gas in Space
Kids Make Nutritious Snacks
Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Experts Say
Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers
Drunks Get Nine Months in Violin Case
Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over

• Stress Tip for the Day
Take time lighten up today and not take yourself so seriously. Look for the humor in life (there is lots to take note of). If you wish start collecting funny jokes, headlines, cartoons and such into a notebook (I call this the tickler notebook) so you can revisit it when hear stress knocking at the door.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Here are some more headlines some of which I couldn’t print (what were they thinking?), but you can view them here:
http://www.bannedinhollywood.com/20-unintentionally-funny-news-headlines/

• Quote for the Day:
“Against the assault of laughter, nothing can stand.” — Mark Twain

Photo of the Day:
This photo was sent to me… let this be a warning…when you feed the ducks—Beware!

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.