Brian Luke Seaward

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.

Today, please hold a vision for the earth; a vision of clean fresh waters running through all streams and rivers; a vision of pristine oceans teeming with abundant life where all species of fish are plentiful (Whales too!); a vision of clean air that invigorates the spirit of all humanity; a vision of vibrant healthy rainforests that continue to thrive; a vision of humanity than lives sustainably, correctly using resources that add to the concept of sustainability; a vision of our precious, healthy blue orb of planet spinning delicately in the cosmos and all life on her living in harmony. Please hold this vision in your heart and mind, with the intention that all of this is true in this “now” moment. Make a promise to yourself to return to this vision once a day, every day and let it guide your thoughts and actions to live life more sustainably. Remember, this is the only planet we have… every day is Earth Day!

• Stress Tip for the Day
Get outside today. Hug a tree. Breath in some fresh air. Visit a rose garden. Walk into a floral shop and buy some fresh cut flowers. Lay on your back and look up at the clouds taking shape. Eat an organic meal at lunch and Dinner if you can!) Check out the Milky Way tonight and the constellations Orion and the Big Dipper (Northern Hemisphere) or the Southern Cross (Southern Hemisphere). Give thanks for living on such a wonderful planet. Despite all its problems, it’s still a beautiful world.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
When you get a chance, pick up the book, Blessed Unrest, by Paul Hawken. It’s a book about the environmental movement and it will lift your spirits…

And if you want, check out this really cool movie trailer about the healing power of nature, it too, will lift your spirits (so I am told):

• Earth Songs Documentary Introduction
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3JxqyCvZVk

• Earth Songs Meditation (song: Prairie Moon by Michael Hoppe)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swE5aYurZcg

• Earth Songs Movie Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_ktYuzEv8E

• Quote for the Day:
“We can and we’ve GOT to better than this!” — Theodore Driesl (Dr. Seuss)
when asked about leaving the world in a better place for our children.

Photo of the Day:
While flying up to Juneau, AK last week, I had a stunning view looking east of the Pacific North West in all its splendor. The skies were clear, the mountains looked pristine and the aura over the earth’s horizon was a sign (to me at least) that all is not lost on Planet Earth… we can each make a difference. I hope you agree. Please… make every day, Earth Day!

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.

Stress is often defined as a “perceived” threat (real or imagined) to mind, body, spirit or emotions. When people express “racially” motivated views and perspectives, they are expressing a form of stress (specifically fear, anger or both): They clearly feel threatened. Hearing so many people today describing President Obama as a foreign born Muslim (not to mention a socialist, a communist, and every other name they can muster up) is the “new code” for racism. People who carry signs saying they “want their country back” is also code for racism, despite their claims not to be racist (Freud called this denial). And because it’s not PC to be racist, this form of stress now surfaces in many other ways, such as current Tea party political activism). Racism takes on many forms of behavior, all of which are abhorrent! Sadly, this behavior only promotes and perpetuates more stress for everyone involved: the attacked and the attackers. It could be said that anyone who has an ego is prone for threatening perceptions towards others who are different (Jung referred to this as the Shadow). In the Eastern culture they have an expression which bears repeating… “Domesticate your ego!” Racism may be as old as humanity, but if we are ever going to evolve as a species, we all need to domesticate our egos to eradicate racism from the world. And there is no time like the present.

• Stress Tip for the Day
Take a look deep into your heart and examine your stress-prone thoughts/behaviors regarding race, ethnicity, religion, gender, and sexual orientation. Ask yourself why you feel threatened by people who are different than you? Why is your ego reacting to these differences? Examining your heart is only the first step… resolving these threatening perceptions is the essential next step. Learn to domesticate your ego or it will poop all over the place.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Let there be no doubt, racism is quite stressful to those who experience any kind of it. Here are a few websites with more information.

http://www.miller-mccune.com/blogs/news-blog/evidence-links-stress-racism-3619/

www.rivier.edu/journal/RCOAJ-Spring-2007/J88-Crocker.pdf

• Quote for the Day:
“Racism is man’s gravest threat to man – the maximum of hatred for a minimum of reason.” —Abrham J. Heschel

“Let us all hope that the dark clouds of racial prejudice will soon pass away, and that in some not too distant tomorrow the radiant stars of love and brotherhood will shine over our great nation with all their scintillating beauty.” — Martin Luther King

Photo of the Day:
Martin Luther King dedicated his life for equality for all people. In the words of Gandhi, “His life was his message.” Here is a photo of MLK. May this serve to remind us that we all have a dream and must work each day to see it realized, including the elimination of racism.

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.

Dear friends, family and fans,
I am presenting/attending a conference in Juneau, Alaska and will return to this blog on April 19th. Have a great (mental health) week, and please feel free to check out any of the archived blog entries. As I often say, “stress management is simply common sense, but common sense isn’t too common when people are stressed.” Review never hurts!

Photo of the Day:
This photo was taken on Hilton Head Island, SC a few weeks ago while attending the American Journal of Health Promotion Conference. Very relaxing… enjoy!

Quote for the Day:
“We must not allow the clock and the calendar to blind us to the fact that each moment of life is a miracle and mystery.” — H. G. Wells (1866 – 1946)

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.

Dear friends and fans,
I am presenting/attending a conference in Juneau, Alaska and will return to this blog on April 19th.Have a great (mental health) week, and please feel free to check out any of the archived blog entries. As I often say, “stress management is simply common sense, but common sense isn’t too common when people are stressed.” Review never hurts!

Photo of the Day:
This photo was taken on Hilton Head a few weeks ago while attending the American Journal of Health Promotion Conference.

Quote for the Day:

“We must not allow the clock and the calendar to blind us to the fact that

each moment of life is a miracle and mystery.” — H. G. Wells (1866 – 1946)

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.

Chronic stress can seem like a dark cloud that looms over our heads, but to borrow a phrase, every grey cloud has a silver lining. Research studies reveal that having an optimistic outlook on life not only helps us navigate around the potholes in the road, an optimistic perspective helps boost the immune system. Good thoughts and feelings are correlated to the release of neuropeptides that enhance our health. So, it’s in our best interest to balance the negative thoughts with positive one and perhaps add a few additional pleasant thoughts for good measure. There is a theory that suggests that a prolonged pessimistic outlook is nothing more than prolonged grieving, and while grieving is certainly healthy, prolonged grieving isn’t. Lance Armstrong didn’t win seven Tour de Frances with a negative attitude. Rosa Parks didn’t take a seat on a bus that one famous day because she was a pessimist. Nelson Mandela didn’t become the President of South Africa with an attitude of resentment. We would do well to learn from these role models.

• Stress Tip for the Day
Take inventory of your thoughts several times today and discern if there is a healthy balance between positive and negative thoughts. Work to find the balance with your emotional thought process. One thing that helps find this new (healthy) balance is to start counting your blessings (an attitude of gratitude) with all the things going right in your world.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
The field of positive psychology is exploding with research that supports conventional wisdom. Here are just two of hundreds of links that may be of interest:

http://stress.about.com/od/optimismspirituality/a/optimismbenefit.htm
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/positive-thinking/SR00009

• Quote for the Day:
“No pessimist ever discovered the secrets of the stars, or sailed to an uncharted land, or opened a new doorway for the human spirit.” Helen Keller

Photo of the Day:
I went out for a whale watching boat ride while vacationing on the Cape last year. We saw over 20 whales that day and I think its fair to say that everyone on the boat saw the glass as completely filled. Is it time to fill your glass?

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.

When I taught a nutrition and health course at the University of Colorado over a 12-year period, the topic of water (the essential nutrient) came up quite often. Our drinking water, while currently plentiful, is not pristine these days. The most recent issue of the National Geographic magazine is dedicated to the topic of water (with the state of our world’s water supply a looming stressor).
The following are some highlighted (sobering) facts from the issue:
• 2.5% of the Earth’s water is fresh. About 2/3’s of that is frozen. The rest (@1%) is liquid surface water (lakes, rivers, streams) and ground water (aquifers).
• 2/3’s of the Earth’s fresh water is used to grow food.
• American’ use about 100 gallon’s of water at home each day. People from developing nation’s, if lucky, use between 3-5 gallons/day.
• 46% of the world’s population do NOT have water piped into their homes.
• Women in developing countries walk an average of 3.7 miles/day to get drinkable water.
• Global warming is contributing to glacial melting/recession which will become problematic as communities that depend on glacial runoff eventually become denied of their water sources.
• Currently one out of 8 people world-wide lacks access to clean water.
• 3.3 million people die from water-related health problems per year.
• Public utility water filtration systems typically don’t remove increasing amounts of pharmaceuticals flushed down people’s toilets.
• It takes 1,857 gallons of water to produce one pound of beef. It takes 2,900 gallons of water to produce one pair of blue jeans.
• Experts predict that within the next twenty years, half of the world’s population could face water shortages. UN experts suggest that future wars will be fought over water supplies/rights.

• Stress Tip of the Day:
Pay close attention to the amount of water you use per day (e.g.,drinking water, showers, toilet flushing, lawn sprinklers, etc.). Consider getting a high quality water filter in your kitchen and never throw unused medications down the toilet (bring them back to the pharmacy!)

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
I think it’s in everyone’s best interest to read the entire issue of National Geographic this month. Take time to become educated on the topic of our planet’s water supply.
http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2010/04/table-of-contents

• Photo of the Day:
When I traveled to Chile for a photo expedition a couple of years ago, I was mesmerized, not only by the Torres del Pines massif range, but the stunning glacial lakes in the area. Enjoy!

• Quote for the Day:
“Water has become a highly precious resource. There are some places where a barrel of water costs more than a barrel of oil.”
— Lloyd Axworthy, Foreign Minister of Canada,1999 – News Conference.

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 and go straight for the application. Have a great weekend!

COURT EXCHANGES: These are excerpts from a book called Disorder in the American Courts, and are things people actually said in court, word for word, taken down and now published by court reporters that had the torment of staying calm while these exchanges were actually taking place.

ATTORNEY: This myasthenia gravis, does it affect your memory at all?
WITNESS: Yes.
ATTORNEY: And in what ways does it affect your memory?
WITNESS: I forget.
ATTORNEY: You forget? Can you give us an example of something you forgot?
___________________________________________
ATTORNEY: Do you know if your daughter has ever been involved in voodoo?
WITNESS: We both do.
ATTORNEY: Voodoo?
WITNESS: We do.
ATTORNEY: You do?
WITNESS: Yes, voodoo.
____________________________________________
ATTORNEY: Now doctor, isn’t it true that when a person dies in his sleep, he doesn’t know about it until the next morning?
WITNESS: Did you actually pass the bar exam?
____________________________________
ATTORNEY: The youngest son, the 20-year-old, how old is he?
WITNESS: He’s 20, much like your IQ.
___________________________________________
ATTORNEY: Were you present when your picture was taken?
WITNESS: Are you shitting me?
_________________________________________
ATTORNEY: So the date of conception (of the baby) was August 8th?
WITNESS: Yes.
ATTORNEY: And what were you doing at that time?
WITNESS: Getting laid!
____________________________________________
ATTORNEY: She had three children, right?
WITNESS: Yes.
ATTORNEY: How many were boys?
WITNESS: None.
ATTORNEY: Were there any girls?
WITNESS: Your Honor, I think I need a different attorney. Can I get a new attorney?
____________________________________________
ATTORNEY: How was your first marriage terminated?
WITNESS: By death.
ATTORNEY: And by whose death was it terminated?
WITNESS: Take a guess.
____________________________________________
ATTORNEY: Can you describe the individual?
WITNESS: He was about medium height and had a beard.
ATTORNEY: Was this a male or a female?
WITNESS: Unless the Circus was in town I’m going with male.
_____________________________________
ATTORNEY: Is your appearance here this morning pursuant to a deposition notice which I sent to your attorney?
WITNESS: No, this is how I dress when I go to work.
______________________________________
ATTORNEY: Doctor, how many of your autopsies have you performed on dead people?
WITNESS: All of them. The live ones put up too much of a fight.
_________________________________________

ATTORNEY: ALL your responses MUST be oral, OK? What school did you go to?
WITNESS: Oral.
_________________________________________
ATTORNEY: Do you recall the time that you examined the body?
WITNESS: The autopsy started around 8:30 PM.
ATTORNEY: And Mr. Denton was dead at the time?
WITNESS: If not, he was by the time I finished.
____________________________________________
ATTORNEY: Are you qualified to give a urine sample?
WITNESS: Are you qualified to ask that question?
______________________________________

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Dewitt Jones is a celebrated photographer who has had his work featured often in the National Geographic magazine. This is an inspiring video to lift your spirits. Enjoy!

http://www.rumormillnews.com/celebrate.html

• Photo of the Day:
Still riding the high from my mental health day on Tuesday, here is one more photograph of a snowboarder flying off of the half pipe at Copper Mountain as the ski season draws to a close this year (sigh). Enjoy!

• Quote for the Day:
“If you don’t get a lawyer who knows law, then get the one who knows the Judge!”—Anonymous

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Is there a connection between stress and cancer? A quick look into the research on stress physiology suggests that the relationship is more than a simple correlation. While there are many neuro-chemicals in the stress hormone cocktail for fight or flight, cortisol is considered THE stress hormone. Cortisol is responsible for increasing blood sugar levels for short term energy; fight as well as lipids in the blood for long term energy; flight. While there are several other responsibilities that Cortisol is associated with, it appears that when left lingering in the blood (and not flushed out through physical exercise) Cortisol (and we don’t know why) tends to destroy white blood cells. Simply stated, Cortisol (in large and lingering amounts) compromises the integrity of your immune system. Researchers suggest that we produce a cancer cell in our bodies every day (perhaps more often). In simplest terms, these white blood cells search and destroy the cancer cells, thus warding off any threat of rapidly proliferating cancerous tumors. If the numbers of white blood cells decreases due to the Cortisol effect, one can easily see how this story ends.

• Stress Tip(s) for the Day
One of the best ways to flush cortisol out of your body is to exercise regularly. Experts suggest every day, but if that seems like it won’t fit in your schedule, try at least every other day. Walking, swimming, bike riding, jogging, and hiking, are just a handful of ways to engage in the process of flushing the stress hormones out and allowing your body to return to homeostasis.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
This link below offers some more information from the National Cancer Institute. The first reference is regarded as one of THE most comprehensive analysis of the topic.
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/stress
Once again, I would like to make mention of Suzanne Sommer’s great book, Knockout. Anybody with cancer should read this book.

• Photo of the Day:
I took a mental health day yesterday (known in Colorado as a ski day or powder day) and went up to Copper Mountain to ski and do some photography. I spent the better part of the day at the Half pipe watching the snowboaders:Poetry in motion, but you judge for yourself. Enjoy!

• Quote for the Day:
“A sound mind in a sound body.” — Verjule

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.

One of the tenants taught for effective stress management skills is the concept of simplicity (known in the business world as the KISS principle; “Keep it simple, stupid!”) Perhaps its human nature, but we tend to take on many responsibilities in our lives and at the breaking point, we just keep on adding more. Balance is the key! Its is well known in the arts that “less is more,” meaning that by keeping things simple, (e.g., a melody, a sculpture, a poem) it takes on an air of profundity. Keeping things simple doesn’t mean to take the easy way out. Simplicity suggests the path of least resistance when our resistance is low. The path of simplicity suggests knowing your limits and being pleasantly assertive with your boundaries so that what you take on, you do with class, rather than mediocrity. The world has become very complicated these days with everything from finances and nutritional habits to technology gadgets and changing weather patterns. You don’t have to add to this perfect storm of stress. When in doubt, pause and take the path of least resistance. Your body, mind and soul will thank you. Your spouse, kids and friends will most likely thank you too.

• Stress Tip(s) for the Day:
Get in the habit of asking yourself this question before every action: Is this going to simplify or complicate my life? Taking the path of least resistance doesn’t mean to compromise your integrity, nor does it mean doing a half-baked job with any and all responsibilities. It means knowing your limits and honoring them. This also means being conscious about purchases and the acquisitions of material possessions. Remember the wise adage: You can’t take it with you.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Author Annie Leonard has just come out with a book about people and their relationship to stuff and the accumulation of stuff. Here is a link to her book and an article published last week in USA Today.

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/greenhouse/post/2010/03/why-are-we-so-obsessed-with-stuff-and-more-stuff/1

http://www.amazon.com/Story-Stuff-Obsession-Communities-Health/dp/143912566X/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1269805837&sr=8-2

• Photo of the Day:
There is a lot we can learn from animals. They certainly know how to keep their lives simple. By and large animals keep to a routine. They only use what they need. They don’t acquire loads of possessions. In short, they live in harmony with the natural world. We would do well to follow their lead. This photo of a grey wolf was taken in BC Canada during the filming of my movie, Earth Songs. Enjoy!

• Quote for the Day:

“He who dies with the most toys, wins.” (NOT!)
—bumper sticker seen in Washington D.C.

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 no secret that diabetes (specifically, Type II Diabetes) is on the rise in America, much to the dismay of many health experts. Type II Diabetes is considered a lifestyle disease, and as such is considered preventable. Unlike Type I where the pancreas makes insufficient amounts of insulin, Type II results when the body’s cells become resistant to insulin, not allowing them to take up glucose in the blood, hence making the blood syrupy. This leads to a whole host of health problems. Stress plays a HUGE role in diabetes. Under stress, the body secretes a flood of hormones which are responsible for umpteen metabolic reactions necessary for fight or flight. One result of the metabolic stress response is to increase glucose into the blood so that energy is available for fight or flight. Getting stressed while sitting at a keyboard and computer screen is problematic for blood sugar levels. The bottom line is this: Stress elevates blood sugar levels. Chronic stress perpetually increases blood sugar levels, which is why taking proper steps to decrease stress levels (from effective coping techniques to essential relaxation techniques, including physical) is essential.

• Stress Tip(s) for the Day
Take time each day to relax: sit quietly with your eyes closed and focus on your breathing. You can help control elevated blood sugar levels with exercise AND other relaxation techniques. Walking is one of THE best forms of physical exercise.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Diabetes is a complex disease and this blog entry has only scratched the surface. For more information please consider visiting this link(s):

http://spectrum.diabetesjournals.org/content/18/2/121.full.pdf

• Photo of the Day:
The ski season is rapidly coming to a close (sigh). I went out to Copper Mountain a few weeks ago with a buddy of mine and asked him to pose for this shot (and many others … thanks Eddie!). Eddie, in turn took me on the black diamond run from hell, (how do you say multiple face plants?) so we are even.

• Quote for the Day:
“Life is not over because you have diabetes. Make the most of what you have, be grateful.”— Dale Evans Rogers (Roy Roger’s wife)

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 spring equinox (when sunlight and darkness share equal time on the planet) is a metaphorical reminder for us to strive for balance in our lives as well. I was once asked on a national television show to put the concept of stress management into a sound byte. Since the expression, “Don’t worry, be happy” was already taken, I opted for a one-word byte: “Balance.” I never cease to be reminded how important the concept of balance is when I am teaching or facilitating programs on the topic of stress management. Balance is the undercurrent to nearly everything, including happiness, health even longevity. Balance is not a hard concept to grasp, but in this ever-changing world we live in, it often becomes a challenge to maintain. Balance is inherent to the human condition, from our first steps as a child to our checkbooks. Amid all the daily distractions, change can often throw us out of balance. Nature offers many examples of how we can best live our lives in balance. Lao Tzu, the father of the Taoist philosophy speaks of this in his immortal book, The Tao to Ching:
Here is some simple advice: Less is more!

• Stress Tip(s) for the Day
Take inventory on your life today and check and see what appears to be “out of balance.” Imbalance and poor healthy boundaries often go hand in hand so you may wish to look at a score of human behaviors. Pick one and pull the reins in to help you maintain a sense of balance.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:
Pick up a copy of the Tao de Ching (perhaps even at your local library). It contains a world of wisdom of how to live our lives in balance.

• Photo of the Day:
While at Hilton Head Island last week for a health promotion conference (hence the lack of blog entries and I apologize), I took a stroll along the beach at sunrise everyday. Here is one photo from the trip. Enjoy

• Quote for the Day:

“Stand like mountain, flow like water.” —Lao Tzu

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.

After a wildly successful (and sold out) screening of Earth Songs on Wednesday night (and thanks to everyone who attended), I have declared today a mental health day (I am going skiing!) I’ll be back tomorrow with new blog entry. This scene is a photo I took from the airplane flying over the east coast of Greenland. Enjoy!

American woke up to the fact that our food supply in this country is abysmal upon the publication of the book, The Omnivores’ Dilemma, by Michael Pollan. People were so frustrated by the contents of the book he was deluged with comments from readers asking, “What can I eat?” In response to this outcry, he wrote a sequel, In Defense of Food, with the mantra: “Eat food, mostly plants, not too much.” Pollan’s ideas aren’t new, but in all of the confusion of strategic news sound bytes, corporate politics and obesity headlines, his voice seems to have risen above this cacophony—and we should all pay attention. Having taught the topic of nutrition for over 10 years (at the University of Colorado), I shared much of this information with my students. Given the relationship between nutrition and health, not to mention the relationship between stress and nutrition, this information cannot be understated.

• Stress Tip(s) for the Day
Pollan offers over 64 “rules” for healthy eating, here are just a few, and most likely these are not too different from what you heard growing up from your mom or grandmother. In the words of poet Robert Bly, “I’m going to read it again.. this time, pay attention:
1. Don’t eat anything your great grandmother wouldn’t recognize as food (e.g., margarine, and all processed foods)
2. Avoid food products with ingredients that no ordinary human would keep in the pantry.
3. Avoid foods that contain high fructose corn syrup
4. Avoid food products that contain more than five (5) ingredients
5. Avoid foods you see advertised on television.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:

Pollan’s newest book, Food Rules is a quick read and a good reminder of what we should be doing in terms of eating.

Totally unrelated to food, here is a link send to me by a colleague. Some of the people interviewed here have been speakers at several conferences I attend regarding health and consciousness.

http://www.voiceentertainment.net/

• Photo of the Day:
I was invited by the people at WELCOA to create a webinar on the topic of Stress and Nutrition. This is one of the (colorful) slides I used of some dried beans and peace (no processed foods here).

• Quote for the Day:

“ If a third grader cannot pronounce it, you shouldn’t eat it.” (e.g., all the chemical preservatives in processed food to prolong shelf life). — Michael Pollan

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 have a problem getting a good night’s sleep? If so, you are not alone. Millions of Americans currently suffer from poor sleep quality, also known as insomnia. Stress is the biggest factor associated with NOT getting a good night’s sleep. Today’s blog entry deals specifically with sleep hygiene; your sleep environment, which also is a contributing factor to restlessness during the typical sleep hours. A poor sleep environment can greatly (negatively) impact one’s quality of sleep. For starters melatonin (known as the sleep hormone) starts being secreted from the pineal gland when light diminishes (think setting sun) and ambient temperature decreases (also think setting sun). In an artificial environment such as we live in (with electric lights and heating) the body’s circadian rhythms can be thrown off, thus affecting melatonin production and secretion. nightlights, alarm clock lights, outside street lights, etc. will affect your quality of sleep, as will a warm room temperature. Cool temperatures are more conducive for better sleeping. Sleep surface is also a very important consideration. Consider the fact that you spend one third of your life sleeping. This reason alone would suggest you invest in quality sheets, pillows, mattress pad and comforters etc.) A final consideration is noise. Experts suggest that the bedroom is for one reason, and that ‘s sleep (OK, if you’re lucky, possibly two reasons). Televisions, computers, cell phones, etc. do not belong in the bedroom!

• Stress Tip for the Day
Consider making a purchase of some new bed sheets with 800 to 1,000 (softest) thread count. Egyptian cotton is ideal, as are down pillows and comforter. Silk sheets are incredible too, but more so for the summer months. Keep your electric alarm clock at least 6 feet from your bed (the ELF’s can and will negatively affect your human energy field, as will electric blankets and anything else electric.) Keep your sleep environment as natural (unplugged) as possible. In terms of fung shui, consider having you head and feet lay in line with (not against) the earth’s magnetic lines (north and south).

• Links Worth Noting:
After spending a night at the Beverly Wilshire hotel years ago, (I was there speaking at a Fortune 500 conference) I realized just what I was missing with incredibly nice bedding. A phone call to front desk put me in touch with some of THE best bedding merchants…. Here are some links to peruse as a means to improve your sleep surface.

http://www.luxorlinens.com/

https://www.pacificcoast.com/comforters/all-comforters/classic-2-ddar-bed-bundle?&9gtype=search&9gkw=down%20comforters&9gad=3675968198&gclid=CPGZyqSYhKACFRcdawodrB35lw

• Photo of the Day:
This photo of my guest bedroom on the island of Dominica at the Jade Mountain Resort (which by the way, had great beddin!), and a view to put a smile on anyone’s face. The ocean wave soundtrack wasn’t bad either.

• Quote for the Day:

“Life is too short to sleep on low thread-count sheets.” — Leah Stussy
“People who say they sleep like a baby usually don’t have one.” — Leo J. Burke

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 better way to start off the week (and month) than with a few laughs to lighten the load of potential stress. Today, once again, we skip the theory and go straight for the application. Enjoy!

• Stress Tip for the Day
Hollywood Squares: These great questions and answers are from the days when the Hollywood Squares game show responses were spontaneous, not scripted, as they are now. Peter Marshall was the host asking the questions, of course.

Q. Paul, what is a good reason for pounding meat?
A. Paul Lynde: Loneliness! (The audience laughed so long and so hard it took up almost 15 minutes of the show!)

Q. If you’re going to make a parachute jump, at least how high should you be?
A. Charley Weaver: Three days of steady drinking should do it.

Q. True or False, a pea can last as long as 5,000 years.
A. George Gobel: Boy, it sure seems that way sometimes.

Q. You’ve been having trouble going to sleep. Are you probably a man or a woman?
A. Don Knotts: That’s what’s been keeping me awake.

Q. According to Cosmopolitan, if you meet a stranger at a party and you think that he is attractive, is it okay to come out and ask him if he’s married?
A. Rose Marie: No wait until morning.

Q. In Hawaiian, does it take more than three words to say ‘I Love You’?
A. Vincent Price: No, you can say it with a pineapple and a twenty.

Q. Charley, you’ve just decided to grow strawberries. Are you going to get any during the first year?
A.. Charley Weaver: Of course not, I’m too busy growing strawberries.

Q. In bowling, what’s a perfect score?
A. Rose Marie: Ralph, the pin boy.

Q. It is considered in bad taste to discuss two subjects at nudist camps. One is politics, what is the other?
A. Paul Lynde: Tape measures.

Q. Can boys join the Camp Fire Girls?
A. Marty Allen: Only after lights out.

Q. If you were pregnant for two years, what would you give birth to?
A. Paul Lynde: Whatever it is, it would never be afraid of the dark.

Q. According to Ann Landers, is there anything wrong with getting into the habit of kissing a lot of people?
A. Charley Weaver: It got me out of the army.

Q. It is the most abused and neglected part of your body, what is it?
A. Paul Lynde: Mine may be abused, but it certainly isn’t neglected..

Q. Back in the old days, when Great Grandpa put horseradish on his head, what was he trying to do?
A. George Gobel: Get it in his mouth.

Q. Jackie Gleason recently revealed that he firmly believes in them and has actually seen them on at least two occasions. What are they?
A. Charley Weaver: His feet.

Q. According to Ann Landers, what are two things you should never do in bed?
A. Paul Lynde: Point and laugh

• Photo of the Day:
This image jpg came courtesy of a friend via email. Not sure where it was taken, but hope it puts a smile on your face.

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

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.

Last year I was a speaker at an Earth Day event in Los Angeles. The speaker following my presentation addressed the issues of home health care products. Out of curiosity, I stuck around to listen. Boy did I get an education!!! On average, the typical American comes in contact with over 150 chemicals a day from home health care products (e.g., scented soaps, shampoos, deodorants, cream rinses, hand lotions, tooth paste, lip balm, sun block, shaving cream, etc.), many of which are petroleum-based. The skin is your largest organ and absorbs these chemicals like your lungs absorb the air you breath. What is the result of all of these chemicals on your skin, in your blood, and roaming through your body? The answer isn’t pretty! Phthalates (phi-lates) are one such chemical compound, BPA is another (and its in A LOT of in plastic containers that ultimately leaches out into contents). Experts report that BPA acts like a hormone and it is linked to breast cancer, prostate cancer, obesity, CHD, birth defects, and many other chronic health care issues. You have a set of lymph nodes that run along side the underarm area, which is where most people lather up their deodorant. Breast cancer patients are told NOT to use chemical deodorants. The rest of us would be wise to follow this advice as well. Andy Weil said the body is like a river. If you stop polluting it with chemicals, all things being equal, it will return to a state of homeostasis. Good advice!

• Stress Tip of the Day
Regardless of how much you might dislike the topic of chemistry, it would be in your best interest to understand the concept of chemical toxicity and stress to your body. Experts call this “bio-accumulation.” While the body is rather resilient, it does have its tipping point (also called disease). Emotional stress quickens this tipping point. How many of these chemicals do you come in contact with each day? Start counting. Sure the products most people use are inexpensive and perhaps convenient when shopping, but what is the real coast of health when the chemistry experiment goes bad? Please consider the alternative: Organic home health care products. Please also consider home cleaning products as well.

• Books Worth Noting:
The other night I heard an interview with author, Rick Smith, who wrote a book titled, Slow Death by Rubber Duck. This book should be read by everybody regarding this topic of plastics and our health.
Here are a few links and I HIGHLY recommend this book:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=123902198
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dan-goleman/death-by-rubber-duckie-is_b_202085.html

• Photo of the Day:
I like to think I am cautious and conscious about this topic (and I use organic home health care products), but a quick survey of items in my bathroom gave significant pause for thought.

• Quote for the Day:
“Don’t put anything in your mouth you wouldn’t put on your skin or hair.” —Kevin Trudeau

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.