January 2012

I read several years ago of a study done at Harvard. The purpose of the study was to determine if stress had any affect on allergies. Turns out it does, quite significantly. The more stressed you are, the greater your reaction to allergens. When people who showed an allergic response to a host of things (e.g., cats, pollen, dust, etc.) were taught various relaxation methods, including meditation, and then exposed to the same allergens, there was no (or very little) allergic response. It was concluded that the stress hormones greatly aggravate the body’s allergic response. The take home message is that relaxation techniques are essential to maintain a sense of homeostasis. On a similar note, I read with great interest today of a recent study reported that exposure to plastic compounds (known as PFC’s), found in Teflon coatings, fast food containers, microwave popcorn bags, even stain resistant carpeting,, etc., have a negative impact on kid’s immune systems, particularly the effects of vaccinations. YIKES! The conclusions of this new study suggest sthat these chemicals may be weakening the entire immune system; most likely not just in children, but in everyone.

Stress Tip for the Day:

Take time each day to sit quietly and relax. Listen to soft instrumental music. Close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Sit still for 5- 10 minutes each morning and clear your head. Release your fears, anxieties and frustrations with each breath. As you do this, you will see that you have an inner strength that will guide you through the day. Additionally, make a habit to remove as much plastic in your life as possible, from the way you prepare your food to the toilet seats and clothes you wear (opt for cotton and wool over synthetic polymers made from petroleum products). Honor your immune system today!

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

Last year I picked up a book called Plastic: A Toxic Love Story. I HIGHLY recommend reading this book to become more educated about the dangers of repeated exposure to these petroleum products so prevalent in our lives.

Here are some links for more information about stress and allergies:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/08/080814154327.htm

http://www.everydayhealth.com/allergies/can-stress-worsen-allergies.aspx

Quote for the Day:

“The difference between an itch and an allergy is about one hundred dollars.” —Anonymous

Photo for the Day:

I took this photo for my college textbook section on pet therapy. Many people are allergic to cats (it appears to be something in the cat’s saliva which is found on the cat’s coat when they wash themselves… Be sure to wash your hands before you touch your face. Equally important, be sure to meditate, if you are allergic to cats…and see what happens.

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 (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Having taught nutrition for over a decade at the University of Colorado, the first lecture always included a brief review of the six nutrients: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water. Yet it would be a gross injustice to only list these. There are several more. They include, but are not limited to: Sunlight, oxygen, prana and love. It’s not secret that the average person doesn’t get enough sunlight, a fact that came to light when it was reported last year that many Americans today are deficient in Vitamin D; the sunshine vitamin. While it is safe to say that many people do get their supply of oxygen, we can also safely assume that a great man people are not in touch with their breathing skills (Sting is often quoted as saying that most people in the Western culture do not know how to breath correctly, and he is right). Prana, a name associated with divine energy, is also an essential nutrient, yet one that most people take for granted. Becoming conscious of this divine energy facilitates a great ability to reach our highest potential. A stressed lifestyle not only tends to compromise our eating habits, but our ability to get outside and enjoy the natural world, one that is filled with sunlight, oxygen and prana. And it goes without saying that without love, we cannot live at all.

Stress Tip for the Day:

Make it a habit to get outside today and go for a walk. Drink in the sunlight as you walk. Feel the gentle caress of wind on your face and breath it in, deep into your lungs. As you breath in this fresh air, recognize that you are also breathing in the life force of universal energy (some people call it prana, still others call it Chi, and still others call it the Holy Spirit). Make it a habit to get your daily requirement of these essential nutrients as well as the obvious ones that you consume at each meal. And regarding love, this nutrient can only be absorbed with an open heart.

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

Here is a nice article about the sunshine vitamin:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2009/feb/08/vitamin-d-sun-health

Quote for the Day:

“Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink in the wild air.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Photo for the Day:

This photo was taken a few years ago during a sunset on the island of Santorini, Greece, where there is plenty of sunshine, oxygen and prana. 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 (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Steve Jobs, founder of the Apple computer, was driven by a life purpose: to make a visible “dent” in the universe. I think everyone would agree that indeed he did, from the Ipod, to Pixar cartoon films. Like Steve Jobs, we too have a meaningful purpose in life, though each purpose will make a different impression in our world, if not the universe. Noted author, Viktor Frankl (Man’s Search for Meaning) was of the opinion that stress arises when we are not fulfilling our life purpose. Categorically, each of our purposes in life involves bringing more light into the darkness of mere being (thanks, Carl Jung). Joseph Campbell offered this advice to fulfilling your life’s purpose: Follow your bliss. Steve Job’s advice was similar: follow your own path, be different; don’t live up to someone else’s expectations. Conforming to other’s likes and beliefs makes for a very boring, if not very dark, world. It also makes for more stressful life. Being authentically true to yourself is the only way you will ever change the world for the better. The Universe is begging for your “dent.” What are you waiting for?

Stress Tip for the Day:

Each of us has not one, but many purposes in life. For some it’s raising a family. For others it’s discovering the vaccine to save lives. Still for others it’s bringing a smile to thousands of faces or inspiring the hearts of many. Apathy and laziness will sabotage our life purpose. Stress finds it’s way into our hearts when one purpose is complete and the next has yet to form. What is your purpose in life? (here’s is a hint: it’s not to make lots of money). What is your dent in the universe? Get out there and start pounding away. Begin with a smile. If you are in a quandary about what to start pounding, start doing some soul searching, and listen for the answer. Then… follow your bliss.

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

If you have not read Frankl’s book, Man’s Search for Meaning, it is a must read. And if you have read it, you might want to consider reading it again. I would also highly recommending Steve Job’s biography, Steve Jobs. It’s very inspiring, and might just help you make your dent in the universe.

Quote for the Day:

“Here’s to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes… the ones who see things differently — they’re not fond of rules… You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them, but the only thing you can’t do is ignore them because they change things… they push the human race forward, and while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do. – Think Different” — Steve Jobs

Photo for the Day:

Today’s photo is a Hawaiian sunrise image… a reminder to bring more light into the world, for no matter what you do, ultimately this is all of our life purposes.

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 (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

It is hard to image anyone going through an entire day without smiling (or laughing for that matter), but it happens—A LOT. Results from the field of psychoneuroimmunology remind us that our thoughts can greatly impact our health, but this pathway is a two-way street. We are also reminded that our physiology can impact our thoughts and feelings as well. This was the whole message of Charlie Chaplin’s famous song (often sung by Nat King Cole… see lyrics below) called Smile. By inviting the body to adopt a happy position, brain neurochemistry begins to change—for the better. It’s that simple. A smile is a universal symbol of happiness. A smile is the currency of the heart. As the expression goes, happiness is just a thought away! Can the simple act of smiling make you happy? The answer appears to be yes (check out the link below from Scientific American). Smiling is the art of happiness, and we can all use more of this. And smiling is contagious. Pass it on.

Stress Tip for the Day:

In the book, Eat Pray Love, the author, Liz Gilbert was recommend to sit in meditation and contemplate the premise of happiness. Her Balinese mentor told her to meditate on happiness by smiling. “Just sit there and smile,” he said. Good advice. In doing so, you begin to reflect on all that is going right with your life. Gratitude abounds. In doing so, you tame the voice of the ego that broadcasts its negativity, so you can hear the voice, the melody of happiness and bliss. The next time you meditate (and you can start today), close your eyes, focus on your breathing and contemplate bliss: Think it, feel it, be it…. Also take it outside, as the expression goes…. consider smiling when meeting others, particularly at the grocery store checkout stand (lots of stress in the way of boredom there).

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

A few years ago, I was asked to write a chapter for a book called Smile, by Elan Sun Star, a world renowned photographer based in Hawaii. If you can get your hands on this book, I highly recommend it. Not only are there some great essays, but there are some incredible photographs as well.

Here are a few links to more ideas about smiling:

http://thinksimplenow.com/happiness/the-art-of-smiling/

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=smile-it-could-make-you-happier

Quote for the Day:

These are the lyrics to Chaplin’s now famous song, Smile:

Smile

though’ your heart is aching,

Smile

Even though it’s breaking,

When there are clouds in the sky- You’ll get by,

If you smile through your fear and sorrow,

Smile and maybe tomorrow

You’ll see the sun come shining through- for you.

Light up your face with gladness,

Hide every trace of sadness,

Although’ a tear may be ever so near,

That’s the time you must keep on trying,

Smile- what’s the use of crying?

You’ll find that life is still worthwhile,

If you just smile.

Photo for the Day:

In culling through many photo ideas for this theme today, I cropped this one to fit… If you happen to know who this smile belongs to, let me know. There might be a small prize…. void where prohibited.

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 (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

If you have seen the movie, Contagion, then you know how easily germs can spread. And… if you heard the news last week that scientists have manipulated a version of the bird flu virus into a deadly contagion, then it would be wise to do all you can to boost the strength of your immune system (just in case of nefarious minds). CDC data reveals that the average person touches their hands to their face hundreds of times a day, making an easy entrance for germs and pathogens into the body. In the movie Contagion, not everyone caught the deadly flu. Some people were immune (we can only conclude they had a STRONG immune system). In terms of nature vs. nurture, there are several things we can do about the integrity of our immune systems, both in terms of the internal environment of our bodies and our health behaviors. It’s no secret that stress can definitely suppress the immune system (through the action of Cortisol). So can poor quality sleep… and poor eating habits, specifically a diet high in refined sugar. It’s time to come to our defense system’s defenses!

Stress Management Tip for the Day:

Make a habit to wash your hands frequently. Particularly before eating (anything). Enjoy sweets, but very few. Opt for fresh fruits, veggies and nuts every day when possible. Taking time each day to sit quietly and focus on your breathing (also known as meditation) is always a good idea and a good night’ sleep, well, you can begin with detaching form computer screens hours before you got to bed, as the artificial light will impact melatonin production (without that at appropriate levels, a good night’s sleep won’t happen). Oh, and did I mention to wash your hands often?

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

If you haven’t seen the movie, Contagion, I highly recommend it. It’s a good lesson in the spread of germs. I guarantee you will wash your hands after leaving the theater.

Quote for the Day:

“Eat one meal each day for your immune system.” —Brian Luke Seaward

Photo of the Day:

Looking through my photos (early this am), I found this image of a white cloud (at sunset) and thought of a white blood cell…Enjoy the symbolism…and don’t forget to wash your hands regularly!

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 (7E) and his forthcoming book, A Beautiful World; The Earth Songs Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

The start of a new year is a perfect time to start refining some personal habits, including our spending habits. The news reports of the past week, which reflected on the past year, had a common theme: last year was a financial mess. 2012 doesn’t look much better, particularly if problems with the Euro are left unresolved. Since the start of what has become known as the “Great recession” people have had to take a hard look at their finances, but experts suggest that our careless ways are creeping back. Time after time, stress questionnaires reveal that money problems rank at the top of people’s stressors. Financial wellness is comprised of many things, not the least of which is will power. Pulling in the reins of our spending, seeing each purchase as an investment (regardless of the cost). It is still recommended to move your money out of the corporate banks and into a local credit union, and this should be at the top of your list of things to do for financial wellness.

Stress Tip for the Day:

It’s easy to go over budget when you don’t keep track of what you spend. Debit cards and credit cards may be great for emergencies, but consider using cash (or checks where they are still taken). Many people buy things only to find out that when they get home, they already have the item purchased. Take time to clean your house, taken mental inventory of your possessions. Take a look at your leisure habits and start to see what you can do that is free; spend more time in nature. As they saying goes, the best things in life are free. Be mindful of what you spend (without becoming stressed about it).

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

Michelle Singletary is the financial reporter for the Washington Post. Here is a link which may be of interest for some good financial advice:

http://www.oprah.com/money/Michelle-Singletarys-Short-and-Long-Term-Money-Advice_1

Quote for the Day:

“The best way to double your money is the fold it in half and put it back in your wallet.” Anonymous

Photo for the Day:

Sunrise or sunset? You decide. This photo was taken in Florida last year. It seemed like an appropriate photo for this, the first photo for the 2012 blog. New Beginnings! 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 (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.