Brian Luke Seaward

Today new credit card rules go into effect and these will definitely impact all of us (for the better?), at least until these banks connive new ways to extract your hard earned money. Experts predict with great certainty that this is no time to ignore your credit card statements. Financial vigilence is suggested—by all financial experts. Since Congress has instituted new laws that prohibit the credit card companies (e.g., banks) from all kinds of now previous nefarious activities, new credit card fees are headed your way to make up for the loss of revenue. Since previous if not diabolical means were a HUGE revenue stream for them (in the billions) they are now conniving new ways to recoup this once lucrative pot of gold. One of my friends used to work for MBNA. His job was to create complex interest rate algorithms , in essence, to siphon money out of people’s wallets. He quit because he said he couldn’t live with the lack of integrity of the company. Due to his own financial stress he’s back (yes, he said he sold his soul) and in his words: Let he credit card user beware.

• Stress Tip of the Day
Make a habit of reading your credit card statements carefully (check the interest rates, annual fees, non-user fees (that’s right, many companies will now charge you NOT to use their credit cards. Ask yourself if all those miles, bonus points, etc. are really worth it (experts are divided on this issue). Pay off all balances when they are due. If you must own a credit card, consider a Credit Union credit card (these institutions are reported to be the most honest, since they are member-owned). Get in the habit of using your credit cards for emergency purchases, if that.

Experts tell us that there are two kinds of addictions: Substance addictions and process addictions. Substance addictions include drugs and alcohol. Process addictions involve repeated behaviors and the list is nearly endless: eating, gambling, sex, watching television, shopping… you get the idea. In each of these types of addiction, the person engages in a specific behavior to get “a fix,” yet the “high” doesn’t last long and hence is repeated (some say that people are filling a spiritual void with material things, which will never work). The newest process addiction to reveal itself today is technology, specifically cell phone use and right behind it is WiFi use (emails, twitters, text messaging, etc.). Perhaps you have noticed. There IS a good reason why the Blackberry is called the “CrackBerry”. A recent report on the BBC stated that cell phone use is now denied in many board room meeting because no one is paying attention (they are too busy fingering the keypads). College professors see this all the time with their students, who fidget under their desks with their cell phones during lectures. And sadly, scores of people have died in car accidents due to someone not keeping their eyes on the road. All of this is sending untold ripples of stress in many directions.

• Stress Tip of the Day
Do you have an addiction to technology? How many times a day do you check your emails? Is your cell phone turned on all the time? Are you accessible by phone 24/7? These are some serious questions to ask as this new social addiction takes hold. Healthy boundaries are a must with technology. It is mean to serve us, however most people find themselves a slave to it. If you find yourself a slave (dependent) on technology in terms of getting that next fix… consider some healthy options. The status quo becomes a endless whirlpool that perpetuates stress.

• Books/links Worth Noting:
Roberta Lee, MD. has a new book out called The SuperStress Solution. If you are looking for some new insights into how to find balance in your life, please consider adding this book to your library.
And.. I am happy to say that my new website was launched yesterday. It too has lots of information about finding peace and balance. Please check it out.
www.brianlukeseaward.net

• Photo of the Day:
I went looking through my files for a photo of a cell phone, but instead opted to place a nice nature photo instead. Today’s photo is a beautiful waterfall in Iceland. Enjoy!

• Quote for the Day:
“If you read a lot of books you are considered well read. But if you watch a lot of TV, you’re not considered well viewed.” —Lily Tomlin

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.

Think back, for a moment, to your Psych 101 class regarding human behavior. While many experts in this emerging field were looking at the dark side of human nature, one individual decided to look at the best side. In his search for what motivates the individual to his or her highest potential, Maslow focused his attention on love rather than fear. A fair amount of human behavior is fear motivated. In a concept he coined as the “Hierarchy of Needs,” i’s fair to say that the needs of security are rooted in fear. Conversely, the quest for spiritual growth is inspired by love. If you look around today, you will note that an alarming amount of human behavior is fear-based. What does it take for you to reach your highest potential? Maslow might say that it takes an upward spiral progression in the quest for spiritual growth coming from a consciousness of love. The spectrum of human behavior can be seen played out daily, primarily the fear-based side, yet Maslow and people who honor his work, invite all of us to shift our motivation from fear (stress) to love (compassion). It’s not impossible, yet it does take practice.

• Stress Tip of the Day
Become the observer of your thoughts and actions, especially when you become stressed. Ask yourself if you are coming from a place of fear or love. The answer should be quite clear, even under the darkest of situations. This habit of observing your thoughts and behaviors will serve you well as the world inches its way toward a sustainable way of life, where the realization that greed is not a spiritual value (hero’s journey lesson #3) will become increasingly evident.

• Links Worth Noting:
One of my professional colleagues, Barbara Marx Hubbard, is one of the leaders of the human potential movement. She has initiated a new free on-line lecture series with a cast of many contemporary luminaries that we all would do well to listen to, as humanity struggles on its own Hero’s Journey back home. I highly recommend you check this out.

http://sacredawakeningseries.com/BarbaraMarxHubbard

• Photo of the Day:
In honor of Abraham Maslow’s concept of self-actualization and spiritual growth, here is a photo of the infamous feeling of being one with the universe; the peak experience!

• Quote for the Day:
“If your only tool is a hammer, then you’ll see every problem as a nail.” — Abraham Maslow

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.

Having just watched the documentary movie, THE COVE (a movie I highly recommend everyone watch), I was inspired to watch some of the DVD extras afterward. One special feature was a short movie called “Mercury Rising.” During the making of THE COVE, the filmmakers learned that officials in Japan, who are the equivalent of our EPA officials, would NOT eat sushi, due to the extremely high amounts of mercury in the fish (imagine, Japanese NOT eating sushi!!!) Where does the mercury come from, you ask? It’s a by-product from burning coal. Over 70% of the electricity in this country comes from burning coal (lights, Ipods, computers, plasma televisions, etc.). Mercury, via exhaust, makes its way into the atmosphere and eventually falls into the sea, via rain. Bottom feeders consume this mercury, and it works its way up the food chain. Tuna, apparently, is near the top of the seafood food chain, and when we eat tuna (because we are at the top), we inadvertently consume this mercury, as well. You may have heard that mercury is bad for pregnant women, but here is the real news. IT’S BAD FOR EVERYONE! It’s not just ocean fish; fresh water fish (e.g., trout) in Colorado’s waters measure high in mercury too). Mercury consumption destroys neural tissue (I’ll let you figure out rest of the dots to connect, but needless to say all of this results in stress, specifically bio-ecological stress)!

• Stress Tip of the Day
The next time you are in your doctor’s office, consider having a blood test done to measure the amount of mercury in YOUR body (it can also be done with hair samples). If it’s high, you might wish to consider cutting back on food sources that contains mercury (cold water fish, but perhaps all types of sea food. Recent news in Colorado stated that lake trout also have high levels of mercury). Mercury is known to destroy neural tissue, correlated to several aspects of mental thought processing! Also, please consider watching the movie, THE COVE and the special features on the DVD as well. Consider also demanding higher EPA regulations on coal burning in your locale (these were relaxed nation-wide during the 8 years of George W’s administration).

• Links Worth Noting:
Don’t take my word for it. Here…please read for yourself.. three links:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/hsn/20100205/hl_hsn/testsshowtoptunabrandshavehighmercurylevels

http://www.pbs.org/now/science/mercuryinfish.html

http://www.thedailygreen.com/environmental-news/latest/tuna-mercury-47050102

• Photo of the Day:
As many of you may know, the dolphin is my logo symbol for my company, Inspiration Unlimited. Watching the movie THE COVE, about the Japanese slaughter of thousands of dolphins each year (after selecting the best for ‘pets” in places like SeaWorld and other swim with the captive dolphin programs, etc.), was heart wrenching. This photo of a spinner dolphin was taken off the shores of Kauai last winter. Spinner Dolphins jump out of the water and spin, sometimes several rotations before reentering the water. It’s pretty cool to watch…in nature. Let’s hope future generations will always be able to see these creatures in the wild.

• Quote for the Day:
“If you are not an (environmental) activist, you’re an inactivist!”
—Louie Psihoyos, Filmmaker, THE COVE

“If you’re not upset about the state of the world’s environment, you’re not paying attention.” — bumper-sticker seen in Boulder, CO

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, like many people, addicted to spending money? FYI: Retail therapy may be a form of mismanaged anger. How much money do you have saved up for emergencies? Is money (or the lack of it) a stressor for you right now? If so, listen up. It’s time to go on a financial fast for 21 days… staring now! FYI: your job is not to support the US economy—BY YOURSELF! If your financial house is not in order, your job is to get it in order—Today. This means “fast” from compulsory consumerism (buying things you don’t need with money you don’t have, thus perpetuating more stress). Michelle Singeltary is a financial columnist for the Washington Post and she now recommends a 21-day fast with all credit cards and debit cards: Cash only for all transactions (and not from an ATM!) Be conscious about how you spend your money. Michelle says that by placing yourself on a financial fast, very likely you can get a better handle on your finances and even put some money away for savings (everyone should have enough money in a savings account to cover expenses for a 3-6 month period of no income). If you are married, get your spouse on board too. In fact, get the whole family on board. Act and teach responsibly.

• Stress Tip of the Day
OK… first put away your credit cards and debit cards… for three weeks (some people suggest placing them in a glass of water and placing the glass of water in the freezer—Good idea!) Pay attention to your spending, all of it. Make purchases on a needs basis only (not wants, but actual needs: food, clothing, shelter, mostly food and shelter, forget new clothing for right now). Do you really need a Starbucks Latte today. No! Blockbuster DVD rentals? NO! You can live without these things, especially for 21 days (and if your Catholic looking for a Lent idea, consider making it 40 days!) A financial fast, like all kinds of fasts is a symbolic means to do some introspection about your life. Put away the plastic and start looking inside.

• Links Worth Noting:
Here is the link to Michelle’s Washington Post column. She also has a book on this same topic (but don’t buy it during your financial fast—wait… or better yet, go to your nearest local library where all books are free and get it there!)

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/12/31/AR2009123103495.html

• Photo of the Day:
This image was taken for my Managing Stress Textbook PowerPoint slide set on Resource management. I hope it inspires you to “take the fast.” Consider downloading the image as your screen saver for the next 21 days.

• Quote for the Day:
“There’s a real danger in relying on credit—even if you pay off your bill every month. Paying with plastic just makes buying too easy. Swipe, and within seconds you can be mired in debt.” — Michelle Singeltary

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 primary components of self-esteem is the concept of empowerment. The word “empowerment” is often overused, but in essence, it means this: Capitalizing on your inner strengths for inner balance. Stress can magnify our insecurities, painting us into a corner— exactly at the time when we need to take action. Sadly, in this age of celebrity stardom, empowerment is in short supply. The reason is that people (non-celebrities) tend to give their power away. By this I mean they tend to focus on other people’s strengths and achievements rather than cultivate own own. Movie stars, athletes, politicians, authors, rock stars, spouses, gurus (especially gurus) are the focus of people’s unyiedling attention, admiration, and adoration (power). It’s only when we take back our power do we regain our center of spiritual gravity and live our lives in balance.

• Stress Tip of the Day
While it’s certainly OK to admire people for their talents, take inventory of how you admire someone (the word fan comes from the word fanatic). We don’t so much put people on pedestals as we stand in ditches (lowering ourselves), stuck in our own problems (trust me, even celebrities have their problems). So today, make a list of YOUR inner resources, YOUR star qualities. Add to this list those resources you would like to cultivate in yourself (e.g., sense of humor, creativity, optimism, faith) then get started exercising these spiritual muscles to round out your highest potential.

• Books Worth Noting:
Many people also give their power away to their physicians rather than taking initiative for their own health. Physicians are great with drugs and surgery, but there are many tools in the tool kit. Empower yourself to find this balance as well.
I highly recommend the book called Knockout: Interviews with Doctors Who Are Curing Cancer. The book is written by Suzanne Sumers (known for her roles in the movie American Graffitti and the television show, Three’s Company. Suzanne has been a health activist for many years, since her own health issues, which she masterfully conquered. A good addition to any health library.

• Photo of the Day:
I took a much-mental health day yesterday and went skiing at Copper Mountain. In Colorado we call a mental health day a “powder day.” Beautiful blue skies, clean air, fresh snow and lots of sunshine. That’s what I call empowerment! Enjoy!

• Quote for the Day:
“You are perfect. The only time you are not perfect is when you compare yourself to somebody else. Be yourself, everybody else is taken.” — Rose Pere

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.

Misery loves company, the expression goes… so, often in workshops, I help people find humor in their dark times by having them exaggerate (humor therapy) their plights:
Here are some of the funniest ones:
• You know you’re stressed when you try to open the front door lock with your car’s remote control lock and for a split second cannot figure why it’s not working.
• You know you’re stressed when you make a mistake putting on your make-up and then to click undo until you realize there is no click undo—you have to undo it yourself.
• You know you’re having a bad day when you drive home and see a SWAT team in front of your house waiting for you.
• You know you’re stressed when you call someone and in between the time when you dial the last number and they answer, you have no idea whom you called.
• You know you’re stressed when you just wish you could text message your Christmas cards rather than write them out long hand.
• You know you’re stressed in the morning when you pour orange juice on your cereal rather than milk… and then decide to eat it anyway.

• Stress Tip of the Day
If you can relate to (or worse, have done these) any of the above stress-misgivings (and who can’t) then its time to unplug from the world momentarily, close your eyes and allow your mind to rest. In the words of Lily Tomlin, “If you want fast acting relief, try slowing down. The stress tip for the day…. Try slowing down.

• Links Worth Noting:
A dear friend of mine (thanks, Pat) sent this National Geographic link and in her words, “ This is just too great not to share.” I agree.
It’s titled, “The Orangutan and the Hound”… Enjoy.
http://video.aol.co.uk/video-detail/the-orangutan-and-the-hound/1356710375

• Photo of the Day:
I traveled to Syracuse, NY last week for a screening of Earth Songs at Le Moyne College. Before the premier, I was taken to lunch at a great Irish pub (thanks, Anne) where we noticed these ice crystals formed on the red telephone box outside the restaurant. Note: there were actually two red phone boxes, one miniature one for the leprechauns (wink).

• Quote for the Day:
“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.” — J. Burroughs

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.

If you haven’t heard, our oceans are not as plentiful with fish as they once were many years ago. In fact, many populations of fish are nearly decimated due to over-fishing. As a fan of the NPR radio program, Living on Earth, I am often reminded of the many problems facing our oceans (from our coral reefs that are dying to areas of plastic waste, the size of Texas, floating in the Pacific. Last Sunday Living On Earth aired a special program called “Good Fish, Bad Fish” (see link below), which deals with wild vs. farm-raised salmon, the result of which is not good news. Coincidently, the latest issue of National Geographic has a story about the hundreds of salmon fisheries in Chile that are causing so many environmental problems in the waters off Patagonia. The vast majority of salmon consumed in the US is farm bread salmon, and this is not without its problems, to the fish and to we who eat them. Caveat emptor: Let the buyer beware!

Stress can bring out the worst in people, as exhibited by the inappropriate comments of Pat Robertson regarding the plight of the Haitian people after the devastating earthquake last week. The following is a reply to Mr. Robertson comments that I thought was just too good not to share. The ‘Devil’ Writes Pat Robertson A Letter: January 15, 2010.

The Minneapolis Star-Tribune published a letter from Satan to evangelist Pat Robertson, responding to his comment that Haiti’s persistent troubles, including the earthquake, are due to a pact the nation made with Mephistopheles. Actually, it wasn’t Satan who wrote the letter but Lilly Coyle of Minneapolis writing in the persona of the hellish one. I think she got it down pretty well. What say you?

Dear Pat Robertson,

When the chips are down, you have a secret weapon… your smile. Research shows that a smile can disarm the harshest critic. Research also reveales that when store clerks smile at their customers, they are less likely to be robbed. People today are showing signs of being overwhelmed and burnt out. They could use a smile. We all could use a smile. As the Irish say, “A smile costs nothing and everyone benefits,” so make a smile your umbrella in stressful times.

Some foods, or lack thereof, can be a stress to the body. Let’s take the nutrient fat, for example. There are two kinds of fats that your body cannot make. These are called essentials fats , specifically, Omega 3’s and Omega 6’s. If you do not consume these in your diet, your body’s physiology becomes stressed and various physiological functions cannot occur. Some organs might perform less optimally. Eventually they might not perform at all. By and large, Americans consume too much Omega 6’s (e.g., various cooking oils) and not enough Omega 3’s (found in cold water fish and flax seed). This imbalance can lead to several problems including inflammation of the joints. Food companies have figured out that by chemically tweaking lipids (liquid fats such as oils) they become solid at room temp (the dreaded hydrogenated oils or trans-fats). This prolongs shelf life of the products that contain these fats so they won’t go rancid, but as the saying goes, bacteria are smart, they won’t go near this stuff. Once in the body, trans-fats destroy cell membranes and this causes all kinds of physiological problems, most notably setting the stage for cancer and heart disease.

• Stress Tip of the Day
Getting a good source of Omega 3 oils is essential to your body’s health. Today you can find Omega 3’s in almost everything from eggs to cereals, but the best source is its most natural source: Flax seed oil (found in the health food section of your grocery store) and cold water fish (e.g. salmon). Make it habit to eat fresh caught salmon as farm salmon may be less expensive, but has many serious health issues. Also light and heat can make fats go rancid (which then act like trans fats in your body). Keep all oils in a cold dark place (like your fridge), not above the stove!

• Links Worth Noting:
No blog could do justice to the topic of lipids …and that’s why we have favorite links.. Here is one from Dr. Andy Weil..whom I feel is a great source of knowledge on the topic of nutrition

http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/QAA400149/balancing-omega-3-and-omega-6.html

• Photo of the Day:
I didn’t have any photos of bottles of olive oil (perhaps next time). This photo of an tropical hummingbird was taken in St. Lucia last spring. Enjoy!

• Quote for the Day:
“God wants spiritual fruit, not religious nuts.” Bumper sticker seen in Boulder

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 people get stressed they tend to bitch, moan and whine—A lot! America, it seems, has become a nation of whiners (A bumper sticker in Boulder reads: Stop Global Whining!) It’s OK to complain every now an then, but not ALL the time! People who complain all the time are really grieving. While grieving is good, grieving all the time is not good. And it certainly isn’t healthy! People who bitch, moan and whine all the time tend to claim victimization about their lives. As the expression goes, “one a victim, twice a volunteer.” A recent news report on NPR cited that over 85 % of the blogs today are nothing more than rants: Angry people who are spewing their anger everywhere. Comments on varoius websites also contain this catharsis of frustration. News events in Haiti should remind us just how good we have it here in America. So give it a rest. Cathart your feelings, but then step back from the whirlpool of negativity (before you fall in) and focus on the positive aspects of your life… and there is much to be happy about.

• Stress Tip of the Day
Eavesdrop on the conversations you engage in and notice how often you fall into the trap of non-stop grieving. Remember, its OK to grieve, but at some point it becomes necessary to let it go—whatever it is. Learn to put a healthy boundary on your bitching (5 mins is a good amount to time to get it out. Anything after that and you hang a sign on your head that says “ I am a victim.”). Anything more than that and you might here the expression, “Would you care for some cheese with your whine?”

• Links Worth Noting:
Sometimes giving to others who are in greater need than we find ourselves lifts us out of our funk. People in Haiti need lots of help… if you are in a position to do so, considering giving whatever you can. Google has organized many legitimate websites…including this one:
http://www.unicefusa.org/?gclid=CMyu_YqOsZ8CFRHxDAodUzvZ1Q

People today have an urgent, if not compulsive, need to stay connected with others. This may explain the perpetual use of cell phones and constant updates on Facebook and Twitter. Being connected and having a strong support group is essential for health and well-being. So is having some quality alone time. Balance is the key. Also known as soul-searching, taking time regularly to sort out your thoughts and feelings (discarding that which no longer serves you) is not only a good idea, it’s essential for peace of mind. We live in a world where there is a cacophony of all kinds of noise, much of it self-inflicted. Quality time to do soul-searching is best done alone… in a quiet space and atmosphere. Balance is the key!

• Stress Tip of the Day
Do you make space in your day for some quality alone time? Where can you carve out a few minutes each day to unplug from the world (no cell phone rings, no television, no emails, websites or tweets) and collect your thoughts… so that when you do reconnect, you are fully present with those who are in your circle? No matter where you live, what you do for a living or how many kids you have, finding that balance is essential each and every day. If you don’t make this time for yourself, no one else will either.

• Links Worth Noting:
Have you seen the movie Avatar yet? (3-D and IMAX is the best.
A whole book could be written about the content of this link (click below), but suffice to say that at some level, people are recognizing that they need to cultivate a better relationship with nature. Alone time in nature is the best!
http://www.cnn.com/2010/SHOWBIZ/Movies/01/11/avatar.movie.blues/index.html

• Photo of the Day:
This is a photograph (of me) taken in Illulisat, Greenland observing the beautiful icebergs. Some of you may recognize it from the Earth Songs movie. I filmed this iceberg for 20 minuets and then speeded up the film and you can actually see the iceberg rotate about 45 degrees from the ocean currents over time. Pretty cool. The alone time was nice too, I even saw two humpback whales.

• Quote for the Day:
“What’s the difference between fiction and reality? When you write fiction, it has to make sense.” — Tom Clancy

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.

Having just received word recently that a good friend of mine has stage 3 cancer, gave pause for thought. Hearing news like this brings up several thoughts and emotions actually, including facing one’s own mortality. There is one school of thought that suggests that we live each day as if it were our last. The implied message is that life is too precious to waste, and sadly many of us do waste time, or simply kill time. Ironically, when people learn they are going to die soon, many do an about-face and LIVE. The truth is, most of don’t know when we are going to die. As a result, we take much for granted. Living a life with no regrets isn’t easy, but its worth a try every now and then to take a risk (and calculated risk taking is an advocated coping technique for stress, for it give you a sense of empowerment.) So seize the day today, or a part of it and hold up your hands in victory for living your life in the present moment, which in truth, is really all we ever have.

• Stress Tip of the Day
Make a list of five things you always wanted to do in life. Add to this list five simple things that you could do right now (e.g., call a friend, see a matinee movie, etc.). Pick one thing on this list and DO IT! Don’t wait till tomorrow. Enjoy life now!

• Books Worth Noting:
I may have already mentioned this, but its worth mentioning again. Go out and pick up the book, The Geography of Bliss, by Eric Weiner. Its more than a book about arm-chair travel, it’s a book about focusing on what really matters in life. AND… its really informative, creative and funny—an excellent read.

• Photo of the Day:
While visiting Sitka, Alaska, last summer, I ran into a college friend of mine (small world) whom I hadn’t seen in some 35 years. Tamma knows the meaning of carpe diem. After a very serious health issue in which she nearly died, she’s back on her feet and shown here in the victory pose from climbing a mountain in Sitka, something she never thought she might do again. Thanks for the inspiration, Tamma!

• Quote for the Day:
“If you’re not living on the edge… you’re taking up too much room.”
—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.

There is a lot of stress around money these days (perhaps there always has been), but since Congress tightened the regulations of credit card companies last year, banks (many of which are in trouble financially) are now scheming other ways to make money by adding even more service fees and finance charges to your hard earned money. A recent program on NPR’s Fresh Air highlighted many of these “hidden” service fees, most of which the average person is totally unaware. Below in the heading Links Worth Noting I including the link to the transcript of the show. I encourage you to read it, and follow up with more information. By the way, cell phone companies, auto dealerships, cable companies and other business are taking similar approaches to sift money away from you into their coffers. Don’t get stressed. Get informed. Let the buyer (that’s you!) beware!

• Stress Tip of the Day:
Read your bank statement (and credit card statements) carefully. Question all charges and service fees. Shop around…including credit unions (which for the most part are supposed to be non-profit). Don’t hemorrhage your money!

• Links Worth Noting:
Here is the link to the NPR interview… Please take some time to read through this.
http://www.npr.org/templates/transcript/transcript.php?storyId=122212229

The following link was made by a filmmaker regarding the economic crisis after a dinner conversation with Arianna Huffington. Food for thought:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Icqrx0OimSs&feature=player_embedded

• Photo of the Day:
Right now it’s very cold in Colorado with snow in the forecast…in fact, it is cold in many parts of the country…Brrrrr! Today’s photo is of Long Bay Beach on the island of Tortola, BVI. Enjoy!

• Quote for the Day:
“Don’t be penny wise and pound foolish.” — Ben Franklin

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.

New beginnings start with a fresh attitude. What does it take to be happy? The answer isn’t money. Nor is it material possessions, family or lots of friends. First and foremost, happiness begins with a decision to be happy. Happiness starts with an attitude to see the beauty in life, recognize the good in people, to focus on the light rather than the darkness and appreciate the simple things life has to offer. Happiness is another word for good stress (also known as eustress). Happiness is a state of mind. Granted, in a world that often seems filled with angst, it takes a little more to stay focused on the mantra of bliss, but it’s not an impossible task. When I worked with Olympic athletes years ago, we called this “mental training.” Regardless of whether you’re an Olympic athlete or merely an essential planetary citizen, we all need to train our minds (both at the conscious and specifically, the unconscious levels). Over the holidays I shared many great hours with friends and family. One such event ended with the consumption of fortune cookies (smile). My favorite fortune cookie saying was this: “If you do not run your subconscious mind yourself, someone else will.” Declare independence today from personal and social angst and be happy! It’s only a thought away.

• Stress Tip of the Day
Happiness starts as a perception. Plant a seed in your unconscious mind tonight as you lay your head on your pillow and remind yourself of your desire to be happy…by doing so, you calibrate your mind to this perception (keep in mind, it might take several nights to germinate). Make a goal each day to find one thing that reminds you of your happiness perception (also known as an attitude of gratitude). Finally, practice smiling and see how often it is returned from people who, like you, might be having a very stressful day. If you can get your hands on it, I highly recommend the book, The Geography of Bliss, by Eric Weiner. It’s excellent!

• Links Worth Noting:
I was sent this video link over the holidays and it put me in a great mood for several dayas. By sharing this with you, it is my intention that it will do the same. I hope so. Enjoy! and…Happy New Year!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nh7D2g5v-Sg

• Photo of the Day:
Pictured above is a photo of my dog, Logan, who escaped (much to my horror… and stress… smile) Christmas Eve morning. He had one heck of a romp in the foot of snow that fell the previous night. You never saw a dog so happy! All attempts to capture him succeeded (thank God), but not until he had frolicked for over an hour, teasing me (huskies are VERY SMART dogs) and getting to the know the neighbors three Llamas. Boy was I happy to get him back (he’s now under house arrest…smile). All in all, he seemed extremely happy to be back home too.

• Quote for the Day:
“Every situation has a good side and a bad side… each moment… you decide.”
— 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.

Happy holidays and seasons best from Brian Luke Seaward and the staff of Inspiration Unlimited and the Paramount Wellness Institute. We look forward to having you join us again in January as we begin our second year with the Stressfully Speaking blog. Thank you for your kind emails, comments and well wishes this year. Enjoy the holiday season.

—Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

As we enter the home stretch of the 2009 holiday season, now is the time to step back (again) take a deep breath and regroup! The holiday season is considered one of THE most stressful times of the year. Here’s why: This is the time of year that is filled with expectations, many of which go unmet (this means that tempers become raw and buttons are easily pushed). It’s also a time of control dramas. These include the perpetual reenactment of family dramas from childhood (this means added, often latent, tension at family gatherings, but let us not forget office or work environments which mirror family dynamics). Combine these aspects with impatient store customers (and clerks), rude drivers, bad weather, financial stress, great Christmas music (and perhaps some really bad Christmas music) played to death in stores and several more aspects too numerous to mention and you have the potential for a textbook definition of holiday stress. All is not lost, however—or even jaded! Step back, take a deep breath (perhaps two or three), and relax for a moment. With a calm mind, restablish healthy boundaries, and remember to open your heart and show kindness to everyone, no matter how they treat you.

• Stress Tip of the Day
There is no law that says Christmas cards have to be written and sent before Christmas. There is no commandment that states friends and family have to receive gifts (sadly, this holiday has been hijacked by consummerism!) This is a holiday season about love in our hearts and light in the world. If you can remember these two things while you wrap up this week’s final errands you will be doing good. If you can practice these two behaviors, you will be doing great and contributing to both inner peace and world peace, perhaps the greatest gift of all.

• Movies Worth Noting:
There are several movies to watch at home this week to inspire the Christmas spirit:
My favorite is, It’s a Wonderful Life, but there are many others including Love, Actually. The Holiday, The Muppets Christmas, and Joyeux Noel. Enjoy!

• Photo of the Day:
Even Santa can have a bad day. This photo/cartoon was sent to me by a friend who begged to have a blog entry on holiday stress. For her and all of you gnashing your teeth about now….Smile… This one’s for you.

• Quote for the Day:
“God bless us all, everyone one.”
—Tiny Tim (Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol)

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

There are two ways to get through a situation of stress. The first is as a victim (also known in the field of psychology as “victimization” or “victim consciousness.”) There are many self-proclaimed victims in our world today! Perhaps you’ve noticed. You can tell by the conversations you have with people because they whine and complain a lot—sometimes all the time! Ironically, by doing so, these people attract more stress into their lives. As the saying goes… “Once a victim, twice a volunteer.” The second way to get through a situation of stress is to learn from the situation, grab the bull by the horns and declare victory. In the words of Winston Churchill, “If you’re going through hell… keep going!” The second way is the path of grace. This is path Joseph Campbell refers to as The Hero’s Journey. This is the recommended path, despite the fact that it hard work. Hard work, indeed, but the views up top are extraordinary.

• Stress Tip of the Day
Eavesdrop on the conversations you have with others and note if the content of your message is one of victimization. Sometimes you may just need validation that how you are seeing the world is a bit unjust, but if this slant on life consumes your conversations, then you will become jaded and start wearing the label of “Victim.” If you find you are wearing that label, tear it off and replace it with the word, victor. Then start acting like one. The world has enough victims already.

• Movies Worth Noting:
Even if you’re not a sports fan, please consider going to see the movie, Invitus, a tribute to Nelson Mandela, wrapped up in a rugby story. With sport as metaphor, Clint Eastwood masterfully tells a heart-warming story of one of today’s leading luminaries.

• Photo of the Day:
One symbol of victory is the eagle, so in honor of all victors, heroes and legends who bushwacked their way to the top, who found themselves in a state of hell… and kept going.. this eagle, photographed in Sitka, AK, is for you!

• Quote for the Day:
For this entry, the quote of the day is not a sentence, but a poem, Invictus, the poem that Nelson Mandela said got him through 26 years of imprisonment. Please read it and consider coping it and posting it on your bathroom mirror.

Invictus

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years Finds,
and shall find, me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.

—William Ernest Henley 1849–1903

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 words “stress” and “change” are often used synonymously. Perhaps nowhere are these two words use with such frequency as they have been last week and this week in Copenhagen. World leaders, scientists, environmentalists and policy makers are attending the Earth Summit in Copenhagen to address the perfect storm of stress known as “Global Warming” (the term “Climate Change” was coined by a George W Bush adviser to market a softer take on this problem). Sadly, a report last week stated that over 55% of Americans now don’t believe the planetary weather changes are real or have anything to do with human impact (those living in low lying island nations who are already feeling the impact find this ignorance hard to believe). Experts asked to decipher this “poll of Americans on global warming) suggest that denial is an important (if not potentially deadly) coping technique when other stressful matters hit closer to home, such as personal finances, health issues/insurance, and job security (or job searching). Adapting to change, whether it’s finding a new job, relocating to a new house (or apartment) or dramatically decreasing your carbon footprint, will mostly likely include some stress. Some call it growing pains, and this is natural. While some fear change, the bottom line is that we must all learn to embrace it, for nothing is certain but change. Adaptation is the key. In the words of Nietzsche, “That which does not kill me, makes me stronger.”

• Stress Tip of the Day
One of the best effective coping techniques is called “Information Seeking.” It involves doing some homework on a topic to get a good handle on the situation. Take some time to educate yourself on the topic of global warming—not from Fox News or other opinionated “news” organizations, but from several sound news organizations. Knowledge is power!

• Links Worth Noting:
The topic of global warming can be daunting to say the least, so to add some emotional levity, here is a totally unrelated link that hopefully will make you smile (I did and am still laughing). Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCFCeJTEzNU

• Photo of the Day:
As some of you know, I was in Greenland several months ago to complete some filming for my documentary, Earth Songs. There is no direct route to Greenland from the US. Pretty much everyone has to go through Denmark (in this case Copenhagen). I was lucky enough to have a friend and colleague (Hej Christian) who with his lovely wife, Anette, showed me Copenhagen like NOBODY sees Copenhagen. Here is a photo from my stay there, a classic shot of Nyhaven Harbor. By the way, unlike low lying islands that are losing beach front property, Greenland is actually rising out of the ocean due to the decreased weight of the Greenland Ice Sheet that is decreasing due to melting from… you guessed it, global warming.

• Quote for the Day:
“The only person who likes change… is a wet baby.” — Roy Blitzer

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 just returned from Anchorage, Alaska, where I attended and spoke at a diabetes conference. While there is no scientific evidence that stress causes diabetes, this we do know: Stress certainly exacerbates blood sugar levels. The stress hormone, Cortisol, play a significant role in increasing blood sugars to ensure enough of this nutrient for energy production in fight or flight. While Type I diabetes is now thought to be an autoimmune disease, Type II diabetes is a function of lifestyle (diet and exercise). Diet and exercise (or the lack thereof) are certainly related to stress. To be quite blunt, the association between stress and diabetes cannot and should not be ignored. The statistics regarding diabetes in the United States is nothing less than bewildering (as much as 33% of the American population has or will have diabetes in their lifetime), and no less bewildering is the epidemic of obesity; both of which are closely linked.

• Stress Tip of the Day
Exercise plays a crucial role in the balance of blood sugars. Exercise plays a critical role in the balance of nearly every aspect of human physiology. As hard as it might be to find time to get out and exercise, this one aspect of your life is as important as showering and brushing your teeth. And while you’re at it, talk to your pancreas. Tell it how much you appreciate it.

• Links Worth Noting:
For those who are interested, below is the official website for the American Diabetes Association.
http://www.diabetes.org/

• Photo of the Day:
This photo has absolutely nothing to do with diabetes, Alaska or stress. Usually at this time of year, I head off to Kauai. This year, the funds just weren’t there. I heard on the news though that all of the Hawaiian Islands are getting hit with MONSTER Waves. Needless to say, the surfers are loving this. I took this photo a few years back during another parade of monster waves. Enjoy!

• Quote for the Day:
“With the Industrial Revolution and introduction of various industrial techniques for purifying sugar, we have a situation in which what we are consuming is not good nutritionally or ecologically.” — Marvin Harris

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.

Several years ago, a study revealed that hospital patients who have a view of trees (and perhaps other aspects of the natural world) seem to recover sooner and are discharged earlier than those who didn’t have the same view. Much can be drawn from these conclusions, but suffice to say that when given the chance, nature embues many healing qualities; from tranquil scenes that promote a sense of inner peace to the many herbs and spices that grace our foods. It was such a study (and decades of my own personal experiences in nature) that lead me to film, direct and produce the documentary, Earth Songs: Mountains, Water and the Healing Power of Nature. I am happy to say that the movie is complete and now available for those times when getting out in nature isn’t as easy (e.g. cancer patients and the chronically ill). Having just returned from a conference held in Anchorage I was lucky enough to get a window seat as my flight flew over the inland passage of Southeast Alaska. The views of the snow covered mountains at the edges of the northern Pacific ocean were spellbinding. Indeed nature holds many healing qualities to diffuse the feelings of stress.

• Stress Tip of the Day
No matter how busy your day is, or how cold the weather might be, bundle up and step outside to take a breath of fresh air, and give a moment of gratitude to Mother Nature.

• Links Worth Noting:
In a episode of shameless promotion, here are three links to Earth Songs (now posted on Youtube.) Let me know what you think. For more information on ordering Earth Songs ($25 + S&H), please go to the home page of my website and you will find an order form in the menu bar.

• 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

• Photo of the Day:
Today’s photo is a composite of three photos taken during the filming of Earth Songs that became the cover of this new DVD.

• Quote for the Day:
“How glorious a greeting the sun gives the mountains! ”
—John Muir

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.

Nothing like starting off the post-holiday week with a smile (or two) on your face to relive the onslaught of the Christmas season. Once again we have opted to skip the theory today and go straight for the application. Enjoy

JOKE: WHY MEN DON’T HAVE ADVICE COLUMNS

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

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

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

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

• Links Worth Noting:
I have been a Muppets fan since the day they first arrived on the scene —this video is one more reason why.. and I am still laughing. Here is a new feature of the Muppets singing the QUEEN song, Bohemian Raphsody… watch it to the very end.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgbNymZ7vqY

• Photo of the Day:
The holiday season is truly upon us. At least somebody has a sense of humor!

• Quote for the Day:
“No matter how cynical you become, it’s never enough to keep up.” — Lily Tomlin

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 is a symbolic day of giving thanks, of showing appreciation and giving praise to all things that mean something important to us. We, of the western world and of American citizenship, take so much for granted. We live a life of privilege, yet, for the most part you would never know it, based on how much people complain and whine. By and large, we act like a bunch of spoiled brats. Today is a day to “recalibrate the heart.” It is day to rest our mindset in the direction of gratitude, for there is much to be grateful for. Today is a day to count our blessings, even the simplest things, like raindrops on roses. It is easy to take things for granted under times of stress. It is even easier to see ourselves as victims and become blind to all the things going right for us in this world. Raindrops on roses, and whiskers on kittens are metaphors for recalibrating the heart, from fear to love. And.. thanks for visiting this health education blog… HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

• Stress Tip for the Day:
One of my colleagues, Ilan Shamir, has an exercise called, 1,000 Things Went Right Today. Rather than focusing on the negative, he invites people to put an emphasis on the positive, and there is much to be positive about, regardless of your present situation. He asks people to make a list of all the things that went right for you today (He asks for 1,000. When I pass out this exercise, I only ask for 10… for starters). So…if you can breath, put that down. If you can smell the turkey cooking, add that to your list as well. Start with the little things that you take for granted. Begin to recalibrate your heart and mind in the direction of light and love.
* As a side note, tonight (or soon thereafter) pull out the movie The Sound of Music and take note of all the stress management techniques used: Music therapy, positive affirmations, prayer, support groups, acceptance, compassion, creative problem solving, faith… the list goes on. The Sound of Music is many things to many people, but to me (aside from being a great story with unforgettably great music,) it’s a series of lessons in effective stress management!

• Books Worth Noting:
If you can get your hands on it, please consider reading Maria von Trapp’s book, The Trapp Family Singers. This is the book that the famous movie is based. They only used the first 10 chapters or so… the rest of the book is equally compelling. And.. if your ever get up to Stowe, Vermont, I highly recommend you stop in to the Trapp Family Lodge for a cup of tea, or better yet, stay the night!

• Photo of the Day:
I never had the privilege of meeting the real Maria von Trapp, but I did frequent her lodge quite often while living in Vermont. Here is a photo of the inspiration behind the musical and movie, The Sound of Music.

• Quote for the Day:
“Music acts like a key to which the most tightly closed heart opens.” Maria von Trapp

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.

Norman Cousins, the guy who put humor on the map as a healing modality back in the 60’s, walked up to the podium mic at one of his last talks and said this: “I never said that humor cured me!” There was a gasp from the audience who came to hear the exact opposite in his message. Then he added, “In fact, I never said humor healed me!” Another gasp from the audience, now flummoxed with the content of his speech. “What I said,” Cousins growled into the mic, “was that it was love that healed me. Humor is simply a metaphor for love.” Profound words indeed! To that we can add, patience, forgiveness, optimism, faith, creativity, and compassion are also metaphors for love as well. There are many colors in loves rainbow. Driving by the Boulder hospital, a banner draped over the side of the front read: Love Heals (Norman would be proud!) At a time when our health care system remains in crisis, it was a beautiful reminder of the essence of healing. The opposite of love is fear (stress), and there is much fear today. Fear doesn’t heal anything. When fear persists beyond the point of getting out of danger, it only makes things worse. If fear is a toxin, then love is the antidote.

• Stress Tip for the Day:
Take a moment to reflect on the concept of love. Not romantic love (although that certainly isn’t a bad idea either). Sit still, close your eyes and contemplate the profundity of love, in all its many colors. Think of a time when you were in a state of bliss. Recreate both the thought and feeling in your mind and body and let this feeling radiate from your heart in all directions. Carry this feeling of love as you embark on your daily routine. When you meet fear (from other, or that produced in your own mind) open your heart. Given the chance, love conquers all.

• Links Worth Noting:
I received an email about a new documentary movie, called Oh My God, coming out this weekend in select cities. Here is the preview for it.

http://www.omgmovie.com/

• Photo of the Day:
Speaking of rainbows, how about a photograph from the land of rainbows: Hawaii!
This photo was taken last December on one of my pilgrimages to Kauai. Enjoy.

• Quote for the Day:
“Do all things with love.” —Og Mandino

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.