All Posts By

Brian Luke Seaward

Stress… and the Other Nutrients

By Uncategorized One Comment


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

Stress Tip for the Day:

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

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

Here is a nice article about the sunshine vitamin:

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


Quote for the Day:

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

Photo for the Day:

This photo was taken a few years ago during a sunset on the island of Santorini, Greece, where there is plenty of sunshine, oxygen and prana. Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Monkey Mind No More

By Stress and Meditation No Comments


In the eastern culture there is an expression called “monkey mind.” It means that your mind is distracted; racing around all over the place, just like monkey that never sits still. A racing mind that ricochets all over the place is a dangerous mind, because it cannot focus on any one thing long enough concentrate, make important decisions, or have a deep conversation with someone. We don’t have monkeys in the United States, yet we do have squirrels, and they too race all over the place. Same concept! It’s no secret that with all the distractions of modern technology, from smart phones and Ipads to video games and text messaging, humans have a serious epidemic of monkey mind, or squirrel mind (take your pick). It’s actually the ego that steers the mind’s attention in a million different directions, and while some people call this “multi-tasking” with pride, the research is clear: mutli-tasking; the art of doing more than one thing at a time and doing them well, is a myth. Monkey mind no more!

Stress Tip for the Day:

Renouncing the world, moving to a monastery or becoming Amish isn’t an option for most people these days, but there is a proven way to rid yourself of monkey mind. It’s called meditation. In the eastern culture there is an expression that states we need to“ domesticate the ego” (this is code for ridding yourself of monkey mind). If you don’t already have a meditation practice, now is the time to begin. To begin, find a quite space in your home or office and sit quietly for 5-10 minutes. Close your eyes and focus solely on your breathing. Whatever thoughts come to mind, simply acknowledge them and then let them go as you exhale. Make a habit of doing this every day. One more thing that helps with taming monkey mind is keeping healthy boundaries with your technology. Let it serve you, rather than becoming a slave to it, in all it’s many forms. As an example, turn your cell phone off (including the vibration mode) from 9-11 am every day, so you can focus on what you need to do all day without the flood of distractions.

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

For more info on monkey mind, consider checking out these links:

http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/meditation-modern-life/201110/quieting-the-monkey-mind-meditation

http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/Three_Secrets_to_Stop_Monkey_Mind.html

http://dailyheal.com/meditation-news/train-your-monkey-mind-with-mindfulness-meditation/


Quote for the Day:

“I am burdened with what the Buddhists call the monkey mind. The thoughts that swing from limb to limb, stopping only to scratch themselves, spit and howl. My mind swings wildly through time, touching on dozens of ideas a minute, unharnessed and undisciplined. You are, after all, what you think. Your emotions are the slaves to your thoughts, and you are the slave to your emotions.” — Liz Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love


Photo for the Day:

While in Rio de Janeiro a few years ago, I was able to take a day trip to Sugarloaf Mountain, where I saw these monkeys, and while they may looked relaxed in this photo, believe me, they certainly had monkey mind.

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Make Your Dent in the Universe

By Uncategorized One Comment


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

Stress Tip for the Day:

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

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

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

Quote for the Day:

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


Photo for the Day:

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

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Smile!

By Uncategorized One Comment


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

Stress Tip for the Day:

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

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

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

Here are a few links to more ideas about smiling:

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

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


Quote for the Day:

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

Smile

though’ your heart is aching,

Smile

Even though it’s breaking,

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

If you smile through your fear and sorrow,

Smile and maybe tomorrow

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

Light up your face with gladness,

Hide every trace of sadness,

Although’ a tear may be ever so near,

That’s the time you must keep on trying,

Smile- what’s the use of crying?

You’ll find that life is still worthwhile,

If you just smile.


Photo for the Day:

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

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Give Your Immune System a Boost Today!

By Uncategorized No Comments

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

Stress Management Tip for the Day:

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

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

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

Quote for the Day:

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

Photo of the Day:

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


Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7E) and his forthcoming book, A Beautiful World; The Earth Songs Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Financial Wellness

By Uncategorized No Comments

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

Stress Tip for the Day:

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

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

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

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

Quote for the Day:

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

Photo for the Day:

Sunrise or sunset? You decide. This photo was taken in Florida last year. It seemed like an appropriate photo for this, the first photo for the 2012 blog. New Beginnings! Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Relax in the Celtic Tradition: Spirit of Ireland Journey 2012

By Uncategorized No Comments

You are invited: Come join us, for what might just be, the last Spirit of Ireland Journey next year (June 14-24, 2012)…

Ireland is a country rich in culture, history and music, yet there is a mystical essence that cannot be described in words. It must be felt in the heart through the landscape, the music, the stories and the Celtic earth itself. It is this essence that we will capture on the Spirit of Ireland Journey. Not just a simple vacation to a pretty place, the theme of this journey is one of healing; healing the energetic ley lines (meridian points at various Celtic sacred sites, known as “faerie lines” in Ireland); helping to restore the healing energies of these sacred sites and offering compassion in action through daily meditations and reflections. We will also enjoy the beauty of the Irish culture and the spirit of Celtic traditions found in the music—LOTS of great music! The northwest region of Ireland is renowned the world over for its stunning beauty and Celtic charm. People often say that traveling to Ireland is like stepping back in time to a land steeped in rich culture, history and spirituality; a less rushed lifestyle in a magical setting, where people meet you with a smile and a twinkle in their eye. Everyone who has traveled with us on previous excursions describes this trip as a life-changing event in their lives; the memories and friendships forged will last a lifetime.

Below is a link to a pdf brochure for next year’s trip (County Donegal, County Mayo and County Galway). A great mix of sacred sites, castles, awesome traditional music and a magical charm only the Irish can pull off so well. We have room for 22 people and would love to have you join us. So…start packing your bags…

Stress Tip for the Day:

Travel can be quite stressful, but it’s nearly non-existent traveling in a small group of like minded people. On this tour, I offer morning meditations and we also do some quiet meditation time at many of the sacred sites, including the Stone Circle in Beltony. Music therapy is another form of relaxation and the Irish are the masters of Great Celtic music; one of the highlights of the trip.

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

This first link will take you to the Trips to Ireland page with all kinds of good stuff to view

http://www.brianlukeseaward.net/tripstoireland.html

This next link is a direct link to the 2012 Brochure PDF

http://brianlukeseaward.net/2012_spirit_of_ireland_journey.pdf

Quote for the Day:

May the road rise to meet you,

May the wind be always at your back,

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

The rains fall soft upon your fields and,

Until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

—Old Irish saying

Photo for the Day:

Ireland has many beautiful castles, including the Ashford Castle in the town of Cong. Many of the scenes from the the John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara movie were filmed here on these grounds. We will make a stop in Cong while in County Mayo.

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Happy Holidays! See You Next Year!

By Uncategorized No Comments

In the spirit of healthy boundaries, this blog will be on holiday until January 6th, 2012. We look forward to returning at that time with lots of great blog themes, information and tips for optimal living. Please feel free to visit past blog entries in the archives of Stressfully Speaking during the next few weeks.

Keep smiling, pace yourself, hold fast to your own healthy boundaries and here is wishing you well throughout this season.

Best wishes and Inner Peace,

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


© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

The Physics of Stress?

By Uncategorized No Comments

The word, “stress” comes to us from the field of physics. Coined over 100 years ago, it means enough force to bend or break an object. Apparently the word stuck. If you have ever felt stressed, then you know exactly what this word means. Stress is often described as a “perceived threat” and once you introduce the word “perceived,” you invoke the mind’s thought processes. For eons (and still to this day) the abstract concept of the mind is often compared to more tangible things. Hence words like stress from other disciplines, like physics, are often used to help make the abstract tangible.

Over the years, we have borrowed a few more terms from the field of physics, including the ideas of resonant thinking, dissonance, coherence and even the term entrainment. Over the past several decades, research into the mind has once again knocked on the door of physics, particularly quantum physics, to gain a better foothold of understanding about what stress is (negative energy). In the quest to understand the concept of energy, specifically healing energy, thoughts are recognized (by some) as energy. The HeartMath Institute has conducted several studies that look into the energy produced by both the head and the heart. When the two areas are in harmony with their energies, it is described as coherence. Simply stated, stress is the opposite of coherence.

Stress Tip for the Day:

How is your heart today? Can you feel its rhythms, not just it’s beat, but the frequencies of love and compassion? Or does fear closed the door to your heart? How is your head today? In addition to eavesdropping on the thoughts of your mind, can you feel the rhythms that your head is sending out? While we may not always feel our own mental rhythms, we can often feel others (as in, “the tension was so think you could cut it with a knife”). Today’s stress tip invites you to learn to become aware of the rhythms of both your head AND heart. Learn to discern if these rhythms are in synch (also known as harmony, or if there is a dissonance (negative vibrations). Anything less than a perfect harmony is detrimental to mind, body and spirit. To bring the heart and mind in synch begin by focusing on your breath.

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

Here are a couple of links to HeartMath….enjoy

http://www.spiritofmaat.com/archive/nov1/hmath.htm

http://www.heartmath.org/

Even if you have seen the movie, What the BLEEP Do We Know, it’s always great to come back and preview it again. The scenes where the character realizes that her thoughts are amplified via water is perhaps one of the most important messages of the movie.

Quote for the Day:

“ Love is a vibration that ripples out over the waters of the universe.” —Anonymous.

Photo for the Day:

Anette and Christian (my friends from Copenhagen) came to visit this summer. Pictured here is Anette, posing for this photo in Rocky Mountain National Park. Thanks Anette. Takk!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Much to Be Thankful For…

By Uncategorized No Comments

In the season of Thanksgiving, gratitude is a gift of conscious recognition that we have many blessings in our lives. Enjoy the day and be sure to tell those people in your life how much you appreciate them.

Stress Tip for the Day:

Spend some time in solitude on Thanksgiving Day and make a long list of those things you are grateful for. Don’t stop until you reach 500 things.

Links, Books and Movies worth Noting:

Research now shows that giving thanks and appreciation is good for your health.

Check out this link:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2064543/Computerised-contact-lens-date-news-texts.html

and if you have the slightest bit of pity for how you life is going, please watch this video clip

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=aw-nt0eTb2w

Quote for the Day:

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” John F. Kennedy

Photo for the Day:

The classic Norman Rockwell image of a Thanksgiving celebration. Enjoy! (By the way, one day while flying out of Bradly International Airport in Hartford, CT this year, I met a man who, several decades ago, modeled for Norman Rockwell in one of his now famous illustrations. This man even pulled out a copy of the illustration to show me. Needless to say, as a fan of Rockwell’s artwork, I was very grateful to have that 1 degree of separation… very cool.)

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net


© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Stress and Death: A Good Day to Die?

By Uncategorized No Comments

I had the chance to sit down with my Godmother a few weeks ago while in New England (my parents died several decades ago) and it wasn’t long before the subject of death came up (My Godmother tuned 85 last week). “Do you have a will,” she asked? It turns out, I do, but she confided in me that even her own two daughters don’t. They are not alone. The vast majority of Americans don’t, leaving the potential heirs and caregivers, but more likely the probate courts, to untangle the mess. The end result leaves everybody unhappy, angry and more stressed. Americans have a very sanitized exposure to death. Think about it! Death, they feel is very stressful, so they avoid nearly all aspects of it, particularly estate planning, wills and trusts. Avoidance, as we all know, can come back to bit us in the but. Ouch! While we cannot all have a graceful exit from this earthly existence, we can help give some peace of mind to our loved ones right after we depart by taking care of some details and putting our affairs in order. Start with a will/trust and living will (end of life care). Make everyday a good day to die by making everyday a good day to live.

Stress Tip for the Day:

Make a strategy this week to find a good estate/ trust lawyer and get things down on paper—legally. Often the cost is minimal (around $200). If you don’t do this, much of what you own may never get to the people you intended,instead, going to the state in which you live. If you have a will, be sure that those closest to you know where it is or have an extra copy. How does the expression go: Death comes like a thief in the night? Be sure to include information about end of life care (do you want to be on life support for years or die naturally?) Finally, as hard as it may be, bring these issues up with your loved ones (and the holidays might be the best time, if nothing else, it will certainly get everyone’s attention). Don’t be afraid of death, Stare it in the face (with a lawyer) and come out smiling…

Links, Books and Movies worth Noting:

There are many online services for last wills and trusts. Check them out thoroughly… seek the advice of people in the know. Not all states validate online wills, so do your homework.

http://www.alllaw.com/forms/wills_and_trusts

http://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/wills-trusts-estates

Quote for the Day:

“When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life so that when you die, the world cries and you rejoice.” — Anonymous

Photo for the Day:

My Godmother, Pat O’Connor, who at age 85 is one of the most wonderful people I know. Very loving, great sense of humor and a beautiful soul. Thanks, Pat!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Of Character, Integrity and Stress

By Uncategorized No Comments

Like so many people, I was aghast at the news out of Penn State last week. The whole ugly travesty is a classic case study in stress and character (how NOT to act in the face of stress!) How can anyone think they can protect a reputation by sacrificing integrity is inconceivable (isn’t integrity the foundation of one’s reputation?), yet it seems to happen all too often. Ungrounded, stress (anger, fear or more likely both) will certainly cloud one’s thinking, distort one’s level of rational thinking, and ultimately hijack one character. In the face of stressful events, we always have a choice; the path of the coward, or the path of the hero. The path of the hero is not an easy one, the path of the coward is easy (but ultimately, no less stressful). Character, it is said, is how you act, when no one else is around. Integrity is an inner resource that we all have, the question is, do we exercise it? By not doing so, it atrophies. The triumph of the human spirit only rises when integrity is the foundation of one’s character.

Stress Tip for the Day:

Exercise your muscle of integrity today. Do some soul searching today to shed light on any behaviors that need recalibrating, out of fear-based thinking redirected toward acts of compassion. Make it habit to find your voice and speak out against injustice, if nothing more, than by example. Let your actions speak to the integrity of your character. As Gandhi once said, “My life is my message.” Be a good message!

Links, Movies and Books worth Noting:

If you haven’t seen the documentary, Inside Job, please rent it. It will not only explain the whole financial mess, but it too, is a case study of lack of integrity (and sadly, these people are still walking the streets.)

Quote for the Day:

“The best index to a person’s character is (a) how he treats people who can’t do him any good, and (b) how he treats people who can’t fight back.” — Dear Abby (Abigail Van Burren)

Photo for the Day:

There is much ugliness in the world today, yet there is much beauty as well. The search for and pleasure of beauty isn’t a denial of the ugliness, it merely helps keep it in perspective. I took this photo while flying over the Italian Alps on my way to Tuscany this fall. Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Try On Some Rose Colored Glasses Today

By Uncategorized No Comments

When the Pollyanna character was introduced into the American Culture, she was THE personification of optimism during the Great Depression. With a little sophistication and perhaps cynicism of the 60’s, the name “Pollyanna” became synonymous with the expressions “out of touch with reality” and “denial.” The metaphor of rose-colored glasses, however, isn’t a denial of reality. Rather, it is a desire to see the good in a bad situation…and move on. In a time of the “Entitlement Generation” (which includes practically all Americans), the norm has become to bitch, moan and whine about everything, thus claiming victimization—garnering sympathy (more likely apathy) from others. So where is Pollyanna in all of this? Great question!

Today as the great recession continues, it’s time to put on the rose-colored glasses. Focusing on the negativity only draws more negativity to you. As the expression goes, “what you think about expands.” When you hear people bitching what you are really hearing is grieving. And while grieving is normal, and even healthy a times, prolonged grieving is not normal and it is certainly not healthy. Research shows that people who are pessimistic about life have a suppressed immune system, whereas those who practice optimism have a healthy immune system. Rose-colored glasses are a metaphor for optimism, something which appears in short supply today, but very much needed.

Stress Tip for the Day:

If you wear rose-colored glasses, keep em on. But if you regularly see the glass as half empty (I am mixing metaphors here, but stay with the concept) it’s time to change your eyeglass prescription, and eyeglasses. Today, please make an effort to look for the good in things as well as people. Rather than playing the devil’s advocate, today play the “angel’s advocate.” Look for the good it everything. Once you find the good in something or someone (and there is always good in everything, every situation and everyone) send love from your heart as an expression of gratitude.

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

Martin Seligman has created a branch of modern psychology called Positive Psychology. Here is a link based on his book, Learned Optimism.

http://www.shearonforschools.com/learned_optimism.htm

Quote for the Day:

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement; nothing can be done without hope.” — Helen Keller

“Optimist: Someone who figures that taking a step backward after taking a step forward is not a disaster, it’s a cha-cha.” —Robert Brault

Photo for the Day:

While I normally like to use my own photographs, I found this (free) image on the Internet and just new it was perfect for this blog entry. Enjoy!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7e) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Song Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Friday Morning Humor Therapy

By Comic Relief and humor therapy No Comments

Once again we will skip the theory and move to the application… have a great day and a stress-free weekend.

JOKE: A Wall Street executive was fed up with his job and the lack of integrity with his company, so he sold off all of his belongings and decided to join a monastery. During his interview he was told it was a “silent order” and could only speak one sentence at the end of each year during his meeting with the Monsignor. When he agreed, he was admitted to the order of the silent monk.

From the first day he was the model monk, saying the most prayers, singing the Gregorian chants beautiful like Frank Sinatra and earning the most money for the Abby with his jams and jellies. At the end of his first year, the Monsignor called him in his office and said, “Monk John, you have one sentence to say, what is it?”

Monk John said, “The beds are lumpy.” Then went back to the chapel to say more prayers.

The next year, Monk John was equally pious and again was the model monk. At the end of the second year, the Monsignor called him into his office and and said, Brother John, you have one sentence to say what is it?”

“The food is lousy,” Monk John replied. He then left the Monsignor’s office and practiced his Gregorian chants.

At the end of the third year, again he was called into the Monsignor’s office for his yearly review.

“Monk John,” the monsignor said, “you are a model monk in the silent order, what do you have to say for yourself.”

“I quit,” said Monk John, to which the Monsignor said,

“Quite frankly it doesn’t surprise me, you have done nothing but complain since you’ve been here.”

Stress Tip for the Day: The word humor means fluid or moisture. Humor is a metaphor for going with the flow, particularly with things we cannot control. As we approach the holiday season, remember to take yourself lightly, and try to find the humor in all things. It’s there, you just have to remind yourself to laugh.

• Links/Books Worth Noting:

If you haven’t seen this link of Laurel & Hardy dancing to Santana’s Oy Comma Va, you should… it will surely bring a smile to your face. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkZGg0qNdCc&noredirect=1

• Quote for the Day:

“Did you ever wonder why hemorrhoids are called hemorrhoids and not asteroids?” —George Carlin

• Photo of the Day:

Speaking of Wall Street, in honor of those trying to wake up America to the corruption of corporate America, today’s photo was passed along to me as an email and was just to precious not to share. While I surely support the 99% (of which I am a part), we all have to learn to take ourselves lightly.

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7E) and the forthcoming, A Beautiful World: The Earth Songs Journals. He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

The Art of Solitude

By Uncategorized One Comment


It was with amazement that I sat at an airport restaurant a few weeks ago and overheard an hour-long conversation in which the man sitting next to me gave a play-byplay overview of a baseball game on television. My first thought was he was chatting with a close friend. My second thought was that he was afraid of being alone. It has been noted that living in this high tech age that we are, it is seldom that we are ever alone. Whether it be texting, talking on the phone, posting (and reading) Facebook blurbs, or Skyping someone, technology has created a way to always be connected, every waking minute. While this may sound good, it has deprived us of the opportunity for quality alone time, Solitude; time to sit and contemplate our thoughts (and feelings) unencumbered by interruptions. The question begs to be asked, at what point does all this “connection” become a distraction? The fear of loneliness (directly tied to the fear of abandonment) is a very real fear. Yet the answer to loneliness isn’t necessarily constant companionship, real or virtual. The answer is learning to become comfortable with yourself at all times, alone and in the company of family and friends. Moments of solitude are a basic human right.

Stress Tip for the Day:

A common theme in holistic stress management is the concept of healthy boundaries; appropriate behavior. Take some time to review your relationship with technology. Are you a serial Facebook updater? Have your thumb muscles grown in size from all that texting? Do you leave your blue-tooth headset on even when you are not talking on the cell phone? Do you know how to be alone, without interruption (digital or otherwise) and feel comfortable with being alone? Consider taking a digital fast and spend some quality time getting to know you (your thoughts, feelings, attitudes and beliefs) and see if there needs to be any fine-tuning in this self-relationship. Discover and cultivate the lost art of solitude!

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

The best book I have seen on solitude is by Anthony Storr, called Solitude; A Return to Self. I highly recommend it.

Quote for the Day:

“Be able to be alone. Lose not the advantage of solitude, and the society of thyself.” — Thomas Browne

Photo of the Day:

While in Hawaii recently I had the chance to see some stunning sunsets. In trying to find the best vantage point I was careful not to disturb others who had staked out their spot of solitude. 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, Managing Stress (7E) and his forthcoming book, A Beautiful World; The Earth Songs Journals. He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Going With the Flow!

By Uncategorized No Comments

I had the pleasure to witness first hand the October Blizzard that hit New England over the past weekend (It’s times like these that we are all reminded that there are some things we have absolutely no control over, yet we do have control over our thoughts). Power outages and downed trees over power lines were as common as snow plows trying to clear the roads. My workshop at Kriplau was affected (minimally) by the loss of power, but not as bad as the Hartford area where I was to fly out of on Monday. Downed power lines gave great discomfort to tens of thousands of people in the region, including those travelers at the hotel where I was staying (I nicked named it the Bates Hotel, and refused to take a shower in the dark…smile). Lots of worry. Lots of Anger. Moments like these can bring out the worst in people. I know because I saw it. Road rage at intersections that had no working traffic lights, indignant people demanding gasoline at stations that had gas but no power (it takes power to pump the gas), and episodes of rudeness that don’t bare repeating. It times like these we can only go with the flow. You can fight it, but it becomes a futile effort. You also look stupid.

Stress Management Tip for the Day:

You will not be able to control everything in your life, but you can control your thoughts. So take time this week to practice this behavior. Think before you speak. In fact, consider refraining from speaking at all when things don’t go your way. Be thankful for what you do have, rather than what you don’t. Think before you act. Always think before you act! Consider thinking of others before you act. Count to ten when you get angry. If that doesn’t work, count to 100. Remember the world doesn’t revolve around you, particularly in times of natural disasters and inconveniences. And while you can be assertive, remember there is a fine line between being assertive and being aggressive. Also remember that the first three letters of the word assertive is what people will think of you (correctly) if you demonstrate behavior like what I saw last weekend.

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

Two books come to mind for today’s blog, the first is The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz (Rule # 2, don’t take things personally!) and one of my favorite books of all time, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water (I cannot remember the author, but it’s a great self-help book).

Quote for the Day:

“In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock.” — Thomas Jefferson

Photo of the Day:

While waiting at Chicago’s O’Hare for the second leg of my flight home from Hartford to Denver, a customer representative walked and took her position at the ticket counter, dressed up as Dorothy for Halloween (by the way I saw United employees in Connecticut this morning also in costumes, they must have dressed in the dark before going to work). This is what I call going with the flow. I never got Dorothy’s real name, but she made everyone at the gate smile. Thanks Dorothy! Happy Halloween!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7E) and his forthcoming book, A Beautiful World; The Earth Songs Journals. He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

By Uncategorized No Comments

Going With the Flow

I had the pleasure to witness first hand the October Blizzard that hit New England over the past weekend (It’s times like these that we are all reminded that there are some things we have absolutely no control over, yet we do have control over our thoughts). Power outages and downed trees over power lines were as common as snow plows trying to clear the roads. My workshop at Kriplau was affected (minimally) by the loss of power, but not as bad as the Hartford area where I was to fly out of on Monday. Downed power lines gave great discomfort to tens of thousands of people in the region, including those travelers at the hotel where I was staying (I nicked named it the Bates Hotel, and refused to take a shower in the dark…smile). Lots of worry. Lots of Anger. Moments like these can bring out the worst in people. I know because I saw it. Road rage at intersections that had no working traffic lights, indignant people demanding gasoline at stations that had gas but no power (it takes power to pump the gas), and episodes of rudeness that don’t bare repeating. It times like these we can only go with the flow. You can fight it, but it becomes a futile effort. You also look stupid.

Stress Management Tip for the Day:

You will not be able to control everything in your life, but you can control your thoughts. So take time this week to practice this behavior. Think before you speak. In fact, consider refraining from speaking at all when things don’t go your way. Be thankful for what you do have, rather than what you don’t. Think before you act. Always think before you act! Consider thinking of others before you act. Count to ten when you get angry. If that doesn’t work, count to 100. Remember the world doesn’t revolve around you, particularly in times of natural disasters and inconveniences. And while you can be assertive, remember there is a fine line between being assertive and being aggressive. Also remember that the first three letters of the word assertive is what people will think of you (correctly) if you demonstrate behavior like what I saw last weekend.

Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

Two books come to mind for today’s blog, the first is The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz (Rule # 2, don’t take things personally!) and one of my favorite books of all time, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water (I cannot remember the author, but it’s a great self-help book).

Quote for the Day:

“In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock.” — Thomas Jefferson

Photo of the Day:

While waiting at Chicago’s O’Hare for the second leg of my flight home from Hartford to Denver, a customer representative walked and took her position at the ticket counter, dressed up as Dorothy for Halloween (by the way I saw United employees in Connecticut this morning also in costumes, they must have dressed in the dark before going to work). This is what I call going with the flow. I never got Dorothy’s real name, but she made everyone at the gate smile. Thanks Dorothy! Happy Halloween!

Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7E) and his forthcoming book, A Beautiful World; The Earth Songs Journals. He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

The Importance of Right and Left Brain Balance

By Uncategorized No Comments

Since the death of Steve Jobs (and this week’s release of his biography), much attention has been placed on the mind, the personality, and the persona of a most remarkable man. Every interview, remembrance, and tribute includes the words “intuitive” and “perfectionist.” Many, if not all people, consider Jobs to be genius. But what exactly is a genius? Is it intellect? Is it wisdom? Is it foresight? Is it cerebral balance? While many of these post-mortem comments try to gain a better understanding of the myth behind the man, it’s quite obvious that Steve Jobs epitomized the balance of right (intuitive, imaginative, artistic) and left-brain (critical, perfectionism, logical) skills (a birthright given to everybody, but not practiced by many, which is why Steve Jobs seemed so rare). Casting aside the nature vs. nurture argument (Steve was adopted), it also becomes obvious that his right-brain influences did much to balance the left-brain imbalance of the American culture. Steve Jobs was many things indeed, but the epitome of cognitive balance is something we all should and can emulate.


Stress Management Tip for the Day

OK, let’s review: Right brain skills include (but are not limited to) intuition, conceptual thinking, imagination, spatial awareness, emotional thoughts, humor, and musical appreciation. Left-brain skills include rational, linear, judgmental, fact-finding, time-based thinking processes. Each hemisphere of thinking is essential to the whole. Moreover, right brain thinking styles are associated with relaxation, whereas left brain skill are used for survival (hence the fight or flight response). What do you do to cultivate your right brain skills? Pick one style and work on it today. If there is one thing Steve Job’s taught the world, is not to hide behind your own shadow. It’s no secret that the quality control factor with Apple was integrity, something we should all strive for. Consider living by the motto, “We go first class, or we don’t go at all.”


Links, Books and Movies Worth Noting:

From the sounds of things, the biography of Steve Jobs looks promising. Taking a peak at the mind of a genius can only help cultivate our own minds to travel in that direction. Here is a link to the Fresh Air interview with Terri Gross on Monday’s show, which includes a link to Terri’s interview with Steve Jobs himself back in 1996.


http://www.npr.org/2011/10/25/141653658/steve-jobs-a-computer-icon-on-life-death-and-apple


Quote for the Day:

“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma – which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” — Steve Jobs


Photo of the Day:

Normally I use my own photographs for this blog, but it was only fitting to have a photo of Steve Jobs for today’s blog entry, which I found on the web. Thanks to whomever took this photo…


Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D. is an internationally renowned expert in the fields of stress management, mind-body-spirit healing and stress and human spirituality. He is the author of over 10 books including the bestsellers, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water, Stressed Is Desserts Spelled Backward, The Art of Calm, Quiet Mind, Fearless Heart and Managing Stress (7E) and his forthcoming book, A Beautiful World; The Earth Songs Journals. He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net


© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Mind Your Thoughts

By Uncategorized One Comment


I was reminded of the beauty of the Hawaiian language during my trip to the Big Island of Hawaii where I spoke at the Healing Touch International Conference last week. We were all reminded by several speakers that in the Hawaiian culture, everything is regarded as energy, including words. Words can heal. Words can also damage another’s heart. I was reminded of the proverb that states that words are like arrows… once they leave your mouth, they cannot be retrieved. It takes work to be mindful of your thoughts as you speak. This is one reason why meditation is so helpful. It trains the mind to observe one’s thoughts. Rarely do we become mindful of our thoughts as we speak them. For many people, the filters that guard these words are gone, removed by ego. Mind your thoughts. Please choose your words carefully.


Stress Tip for the Day:

Be mindful of your thoughts today, particularly the ones that leave your lips. Be careful not to offer mixed messages as well. Speak kindly, and filter your thoughts before they leave your mouth. Let your words be feathers, not arrows today (and every day).


Quote for the Day:

“Thoughts are energy, they can kill or cure.” — Bernie Seigel, M.D.


Photo of the Day:

I just returned from my trip to Hawaii. I took this photo of a red water lily where I was staying on the Big Island. Many thoughts go through our heads, though few beautiful ones, like this lily. 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, Managing Stress (7E) and his forthcoming book, A Beautiful World; The Earth Songs Journals. He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net


© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Don’t Forget to Breathe!

By Uncategorized One Comment

The typical person breathes 14-16 times per minute. When stressed, this number can double, unless the stressed-out person is a breath-holder and forgets to exhale (this really happens, and tends to increase blood pressure and heart rate: the stress response). In a relaxed state, you can breathe comfortably 3-4 times per minute, with slow comfortably deep breaths. Americans tend to be thoracic breathers (with their upper chest) but the most relaxing way to breath is from the abdominal area (with the diaphragm). This is how you sleep at night, from the belly.

Stress Tip for the Day:

Breathing (abdominal breathing) is the easiest technique to promote relaxation. So…take time today for a few deep sighs (deep breaths.) If you have the time, sit quietly 5-10 minutes and do nothing but focusing on slow deep breathing.. your body will thank you.

Quote for the Day:

“There are over 40 different ways to breathe.” —Ancient Chinese proverb


Photo of the Day:

I am in Hawaii right now… doing some work with the returning soldiers from Iraq and Afghanistan (the Wounded Warrior Program; a program for soldiers with PTSD and TBI). This trip is not a vacation, but I did manage to catch a beautiful sunset the other night. 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, Managing Stress (7E) and his forthcoming book, A Beautiful World; The Earth Songs Journals. He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Weekend in The Berkshires: Kripalu Retreat Center

By Uncategorized One Comment

This is a quick note to say hi to my friends and colleagues in the New England area. I write to announce a workshop I have been invited to facilitate at the Kripalu Yoga Retreat Center in Lennox, MA the last weekend in Oct. (28th-30th). They have also asked to host a screening of my documentary, Earth Songs: Mountains, Water and the Healing Power of Nature.

The theme of the workshop is based on my best selling book, Stand Like Mountain, Flow Like Water: Reflections on Stress and Human Spirituality. This workshop will include some timeless insights, many soul-searching exercises, guided meditations and essential take-home life management skills for optimal health and well-being in these stressful times. Kripalu has even secured some CE’s as well. We would love to see you there if your schedule allows.


Links Worth Noting:

The following links will provide more information to contact the good people at Kripalu:

http://www.kripalu.org/program/view/yogamed/RSHS-111/

http://www.kripalu.org/presenter/V0006748/brian_luke_seaward

Quote for the Day:

“Stress offers the opportunity for spiritual growth… when we take the time to learn from the situation.” —Brian Luke Seaward

Photo of the Day:

This full moon photo was taken two days ago in my back yard…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, Managing Stress (7E) and his forthcoming book, A Beautiful World; The Earth Songs Journals. He can be reached through his website:www.brianlukeseaward.net


© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Wall Street Jitters, Main Street Stress

By Uncategorized No Comments

Money, or the lack of it, has been a stressor for a great many people for a great many eons. Money may make the world go round, but the lack of it can be devastating. The current economic situation, from Greece to Italy to Wall Street, echoes of greed, more greed, corruption and stress, with more stress to come, as more banks, according to experts, begin to fall like dominos. Stress management teaches people to live in the present moment, yet financial wellness insists that we keep an eye on the future with our savings and investments to ensure a greater sense of comfort with the future present moment. A new study has come out to show that after a certain point (about $75,000) more money doesn’t create happiness. Conversely, it seems to create more stress, in the form of greed, fear, even anger. Most people pay banks to hold their money, and end up hemorrhaging money left and right with service fees, etc.. It doesn’t have to be this way. Think credit unions! Be smart with your money. Make it work for you. Vote with your checkbook and caveat emptor!

Stress Tip for The Day:

A conversation among several social luminaries made an interesting monetary suggestion several months ago and it’s a good one. Open up a checking and savings account with your local credit union and transfer your money out of the corporate banking system into your own local neighborhood. As more and more corporate banks begin to charge a host of new fees (e.g., the use of your own debit card, banking online fees, etc.), having control of your own money is your best option. It may seem like a hassle transferring your funds from one bank to another, but a few hours of your time today will be a good investment down the road (particularly as Big banks create more havoc from Wall Street to Main Street. By the way, Credit Unions also provide mortgages and car loans, and with interest rates decreasing, it is a good time to consider refinancing your loans. Healthy boundaries with your money and spending habits are essential to effective stress management. Starting paying attention to your finances today.

Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:

Here are some links to the Huffington Post blog about Banks and Credit Unions…. Please educate yourself…and please consider watching the documentary, The Inside Job, about the banking scandal.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/arianna-huffington/move-your-money-a-new-yea_b_406022.html?ref=move-your-money


http://moveyourmoneyproject.org/


http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mike-garibaldi-frick/turn-banks-into-credit-un_b_161513.html


Quote for the Day:

“In the credit unions, individuals combine together to form an organization which they themselves control and operate.” — Karl S. Little


“Where’s that money? Do you realize what this means? It means bankruptcy and scandal and prison! That’s what it means! One of us is going to jail… well, it’s not gonna be me!” — George Bailey, It’s a Wonderful Life


Photo of the Day:

I had hoped to take a photo of some Euros before I turned them back in after my trip to Tuscany, but I forgot. When this cartoon arrived in my in box, I knew it was too good not to share.

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Mind-Body-Spirit Healing

By Uncategorized No Comments

It is pretty well understood that emotional stress can wreak havoc on the body, precipitating everything from the common cold to cancer. What is less well understood, but equally fascinating, is how our thoughts, feelings and the triumphant human spirit can positively affect our physical health. The words “health” and “healing” are derived from the words “whole” and “holy.” Simply stated, healing means to come to a place of inner peace. From a physiological perspective, the word, “homeostasis” is used to describe a sense of relaxation (i.e., a low resting heart rate and blood pressure readings, etc.). The western world places great emphasis on the body, and the western medical model advocated either drugs or surgery when symptoms of disease or illness reveal themselves. Mind-body-spirit healing takes a different approach: using positive coping strategies such as forgiveness (the word remission translates as forgiveness), humor, creativity, meditation, mental imagery, music and prayer, to name a few, to direct us back to balance. Studies reveal an amazing set of neuropeptides released under a positive mindset. The immune system also responds favorably to happiness and joy. Knowing this, we should all make an effort to unite the healing powers of mind, body and spirit to promote our highest potential.

Stress Tip for The Day:

Negative thoughts can feed on themselves and perpetuate more negative thoughts. What is the antidote? Try shifting your attention to those things that you are grateful for, things you really appreciate in life. An attitude of gratitude isn’t a denial of bad situations or circumstances, it’s a means to balance your scale of emotions and bring yourself back to a place of inner peace. Like any skill, it may take some practice, but with practice it will open your mind to a new perspective that you are not a passive victim in a cruel world. Rather positive thoughts and emotions, even briefly shed light in to our lives, and light is a profound metaphor for inner peace. Make a list of all the things you are truly grateful for. After this, make a list of all those things that bring a smile to your face and joy to your heart. Your body will surly thank you.

Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:

There are scores of books on the topic of mind-body-spirit healing, but I would like to share some movies as well:

1. The Living Matrix

2. What the Bleep Do We Know?

Quote for the Day:

“There is no separation between mind and body or spirit from emotions. It is all one beautiful, dynamic package.” — Brian Luke Seaward

Photo of the Day:

Singer/songwriter Dan Sebranek returned to the 13th Mountain Mind-Body-Spirit healing retreat in Vail last weekend performing a most memorable concert of ballads, jazz, folk and blues. Thanks Dan…. See you in the Emerald Isle for our Spirit of Ireland: A Healing Journey next summer!

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Tribute: Thank You Steve Jobs

By Uncategorized No Comments


There is not much more I can say that hasn’t already been said, but like so many others, I too wish to express my gratitude. I am forever indebted to the creators of the Apple Computer (not to mention the Ipod, and Ipad), from which I wrote over 12 books and made the documentary, Earth Songs. Thank you, Steve Jobs. You will be greatly missed.

Quote for the Day:

“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be 
trapped by dogma, which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. 
Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and

intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” 

—Steve Jobs.


Photo of the Day:

A graphic from the web in tribute to Steve Jobs.

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

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.

Stress and the Slow Food Movement

By Uncategorized No Comments


Have you heard of the slow food movement? It was created in 1986 by Italian journalist Carlo Petrini (in disgust of the opening of McDonalds in Rome). His creation was put forth as an option to the fast food mentality that swept the world a few decades ago. The premise of the Slow Food Movement , quite big in the US now, has three tiers: First, the food must be of the highest quality, (e.g., organic, not GMO’d or processed to death and unrecognizable from the natural ingredients of which it came.) Second, the food must be grown sustainably? (i.e., many foods are produced in unsustainable ways including monoculture approaches, food transportation, and the use of petrochemicals as fertilizers.) Third, the food must be harvested in a fair-trade manner (i.e., the people who work the fields must be paid an humane/living wage). The Slow Food Movement is also based on the concept of actually “cooking” the food with love (vs. nuking it in a microwave or eating it out of a cardboard box)… and eating each meal, each bite, fully conscious of the tastes, the smells, the presentation,—everything it took to make one fully appreciate the gift of each meal. Today, most people inhale their food, barely having it touch the tongue’s taste buds, nor conscious of where it came or how it got from the field to the fork.

With the fact that most food travels up to 1,500 miles in the US before being consumed, the Slow Food Movement invites people to shop locally (also known as the 100 mile diet), eat seasonally grown food (i.e., strawberries, available in stores nearly year round, are a summer fruit). The slow food movement began out of a concern that people were not cultivating a healthy relationship with food. Rather, most people have a nutritional relationship with convenience, to the detriment of their health. The Slow Food Movement is an effort to help people return to center with nutrition and eating behaviors. The Slow Food Movement; a relaxed way to eat. Bon Appetito!

Stress Tip for The Day:

What is your relationship with the food you eat? Do you cook your own meals? More specifically, do you cook the majority of your meals or are they prepared/processed elsewhere and heated up in your home, or simply eating out of a cardboard box? (by the way, did you know that the most common utensil in a restaurant kitchen in a pair of sissors to cut plastic bags containing processed food?) When you buy food in the grocery story, is it packaged (then cooked) in plastic? Do you have any idea where the food you buy actually comes from (how far away is it grown and how far does it travel?) The association between stress and disease includes the fact that our food is typically laden with petrochemicals that can and will cause harm to the body. How sustainable are your eating behaviors, from field/farm to fork? The the buyer beware! Please…take time to slow down and enjoy each bit of each meal you consume. You are worth it!

Links/Books/Movies Worth Noting:

For more on this topic please consider viewing this links:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slow_Movement


http://kingsriverlife.com/07/16/what-is-the-slow-food-movement/


http://www.metropolismag.com/story/20080319/revenge-of-the-slow


Quote for the Day:

“People in Slow Food understand that food is an environmental issue.“‑ Michael Pollan, author, In Defense of Food


Photo of the Day:

While in Tuscany last week, we ate dinner one night at Roberto’s Bistro, near the town of Pienza. Roberto is a big advocate of the slow food movement (these tomatoes were not picked by slave labor he told us) and the meal he prepared for us was nothing less than excellent. Here is a photo of our first course. Thanks, Roberto! 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, Managing Stress (7E) and his forthcoming book, A Beautiful World; The Earth Songs Journals. He can be reached through his website: www.brianlukeseaward.net

© Brian Luke Seaward, Ph.D.