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SELF HELP BOOKS
Posted in self help (Sunday, September 7, 2008)
Written by Bodhipaksa. By Wildmind Meditation Services.
The regular list price is $14.95.
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5 comments about Guided Meditations for Busy People.
- The CDs by Bodhipaksa are all good, his voice and manner are the most soothing I've found-and I've listened to lots of relaxation and meditation CDs. The Guided Meditations for Busy People CD is particularly useful, providing a way to create a quick mindfulness exercise when you haven't got a lot of time and may otherwise just skip it. It has encouraged me to stop for a moment during the day to restore calmness and peace and then get on with my busy schedule.
- Who has time to meditate?
I thought I didn't until I bought this CD, along with Bodhipaksa's Guided Meditations for Stress Reduction. To tell you the truth, I listen to this CD more than the other. I bought both CDs for stress reduction but can only carve out small pockets of time that the meditations on this Guided Meditations for Busy People CD can fill.
Some meditations suit me better than others. I have meditated off and on for years and my practice is geared more toward breath meditation. So those meditations that move in that direction work well for my breathing meditation bias. There are others that seem to have a slight "New Age" bent to them, however within the meditation itself, Bodhipaksa grounds the technique in the psychology of the subconscious, making it believable.
His voice is warm and whispery, his delivery is relaxed and slow paced, and his Scottish accent is unobtrusive and unique, at once. This combination is quite conducive to turning quiet meditations into valuable and well spent relaxation time. It is really quite remarkable that you can give these guided meditations 8 - 10 minutes of your time and become truly transformed from the high-stress person you were before you began listening. Even the 3 minute meditation at the end of the CD can produce amazing results in so short a time.
If you are looking for a way to a high payoff in relaxation and meditation for a small investment of time and effort, this is your relaxation/meditation medication. (I'm sorry to bring such a Western angled practicality to the subtle art of meditation, but such is the world and age in which we live).
- Love this CD because the short segments are calming and focusing in bursts of only a few minutes. Then you can get back to dealing with whatever is coming at you fast - better able to cope.
- I have really been enjoying this CD! I put the tracks on my mp3 player, and it's very nice to listen to on hectic subway rides, even if I don't get the full meditative effect at that moment. For real mediation, I also find it to be right on the money for what I am after. As an actor, I have often used guided mediations to warm-up in classes, and the first track, Grounding the Mind, is very similar to what I have done before in different places. I like the familiarity, and the basic approach. Rather than being complex like Qi Gong, it makes meditation accessible, while encouraging one to go further in the meditation practice.
As a very busy person with two careers (at least), I frequently find myself living in the future or the past. The track Being in the Moment was a real eye-opener (or closer!!) for me. The advice on how to bring the meditations into daily life is also very helpful.
Unlike some other narrow-minded reviewers, I couldn't care less where Bodhipaksa was born or that he changed his name. The fact is, he has made an effort to understand a way of thinking that he was NOT born into, which makes it easier for him to relate to other non-Buddhists who are interested in expanding their minds.
I highly recommend this CD for people who want to get started with meditation and lack the time to devote to longer sessions. I also believe that with continued use of the short meditations, one will be able to start finding the time they thought they lacked.
- I have bought a lot of meditations looking for meditations that I could really use and did not make me feel just plain silly. I love this meditation CD. The meditations are short, but very refreshing. There are a variety to choose from, that I can select based upon my mood or sentiment at the time. His voice is very soothing and evocative. I find that the meditations relax me and are an excellent preparation to a deep and restful sleep.
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Posted in self help (Sunday, September 7, 2008)
Written by Gregory K. Popcak. By Our Sunday Visitor.
The regular list price is $12.95.
Sells new for $4.30.
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5 comments about Parenting With Grace: Catholic Parent's Guide to Raising Almost Perfect Kids.
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Practical, fluent and clear.
Great Book
- I really love Gregory Popcak's way of explaining every facet of life in the light of Christ and the Church. He is very doctrinally sound and is the best Catholic author/counselor around today. This book is so thorough and helpful. I put off reading it for so long because, of course, I would rather read novels than have to improve myself as a person and a parent, but when I finally got around to reading it, I wished that I hadn't put it off. I've gotten to the point with my children where I just didn't know what to do anymore and I needed some serious encouragement, from someone I could trust, and let me tell you, if you are a Catholic, you can trust Gregory Popcak in every way. He is the author of many other books on other subjects ie: marriage and teaching sexuality to your kids, so check them out if there is any part of your life that you are struggling with and need some Catholic answers.
- For Catholics (and other Christians, heck, for anybody!), psychotherapist and author Gregory Popcak provides here a great deal of sound theological, psychological and practical support for the attachment-style of parenting, not just in the "baby years" but all the way through! He has written a book for Catholic parents ("Parenting with Grace"), but also promotes on his radio show and blog secular authors whose work backs up with sound science the principles he embraces, including Margo Sunderland (The Science of Parenting), Dr. William Sears (of course) and Gordon Neufeld (Hold On to Your Kids).
Popcak is able to articulate a real theological basis for making parenting decisions AND has many extremely useful practical strategies for improving connection between parents and kids which enhance behavior. His work has the approval of his bishop, and is supported by many Catholic theologians, priests and lay experts.
Popcak has taken some flak in some Christian childrearing circles for being anti-spanking, but I support him. He has a better way. And if you think that YOU have a situation where you REALLY need to spank your kid, call Popcak up on his weekly radio program and ask him. I guarantee you he will have an effective AND loving answer. Call my bluff on this.
A recent study showed that children of religious parents behave better. I believe those who read and follow Greg Popcak's work here must be skewing that sample! Contrary to popular belief, not all religious parents use an authoritarian style of parenting to improve short-term behavior. In the case of this Catholic author, the love of Christ and our reflection of that love calls us as parents to demonstrate love radically through self-giving to our children. This doesn't mean permissive parenting, but radical love and being willing to inconvience ourselves to meet our children's needs, along with having the guts to set limits when we are "working for our children's good."
If there are Catholics, other Christians or seekers out there looking for gentle religion-based parenting that WILL improve behavior through love, I recommend Popcak's work.
- I have 4 small kids and am a fairly recent convert. When I heard about the Popcak's radical anti-spanking stance I thought I would find their book mushy and liberal, so I borrowed it from a friend. But I liked it so much that I actually bought 2 copies, one for me and one for my sister (who is not even Catholic).
The Popcaks speak from experience, and they really showed me in this book that attachment parenting, and even a no-spank mentality, does NOT mean permissiveness. The way to reach your children is to form their consciences through love and example. Loving them and having expectations of them inspire them to obey from the heart. This ensures that what we really want for our kids -- for them to be happy, loving, productive adults -- is going to happen.
Some features of the book are "quizzes" that give you a more concrete sense of what they are talking about when they speak of having rapport with your child, etc. I think their suggestions for building a loving home are great, their discipline suggestions and explanations are very useful, and also their section that walks through each stage of childhood and describes parenting issues, suggestions, and what virtues the child should be learning at each stage.
When you are focused on behavior modification, you tend to look for mere outward compliance. The Popcak's way is a LOT more labor- intensive, a lot more parent-involved, and a lot more rewarding in the short and long term.
The hardest part about being a parent is being a good example. Learning to model charity and other Catholic virtues is much harder than simply requiring it of your kids. If you want an easy button approach to parenting, a way to keep your kids quiet so you can watch TV, or a magic wand to fast forward through the early years, this book is NOT for you.
The Popcaks have a live radio show weekdays as well. [...]
- Parenting with Grace is an excellent book and will benefit parents grately. The key is to have happy, content, self confident children and this advice will definately help parents of any religion or faith in this direction. With this advice parenting will become so much more rewarding and children will have a childhood they will be proud of.
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Posted in self help (Sunday, September 7, 2008)
Written by Deanna Brooks and Pennelope Jimenez and Serria Tawan. By Chronicle Books.
The regular list price is $22.95.
Sells new for $8.41.
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5 comments about The Bunny Book: How to Walk, Talk, Tease, and Please Like a Playboy Bunny.
- The Bunny Book was very cute; it was like talking to your girlfriends about the dos and don'ts of dating. Although some of the advice is cliché, it reminded me I should keep curtain things in mind. I know over the years women have a tendency to let go and not attempt to please their man like they used to, so it kind of makes you want to do them. Also the book had some good ideas which seem fun. I like the book!
- I love, love, love this book! While a few of the tips should be common knowledge to women, the girls present them in a fun and interesting way. Any girl with an open mind and a sense of humor would enjoy it!
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The Bunny Book is a great read. Easy to relate to and although some of the tips and suggestions were common sense, reading them makes for a good reminder :)
I bought my two best friends one and passed on my book to my roomy after finishing it. You'll love it!
- Complete waste of money. aone bunny says do this, the other contradicts. Did not learn one beauty/charm trick in here. Read Cosmo magazine for same effect. Nothing in hear you as a woman haven't heard before. i feel jipped!
- THE BOOK WAS GREAT. I LOVED IT AND WOULD RECOMMEND IT TO ANY CURIOUS WOMEN.
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Posted in self help (Sunday, September 7, 2008)
Written by Angi Ma Wong. By Storey Publishing, LLC.
The regular list price is $8.95.
Sells new for $0.25.
There are some available for $0.01.
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5 comments about Feng Shui Dos & Taboos.
- This book is best used as a quick reference guide to Feng Shui! It's fun to read through and full of information, but it's not meant to be an introductory book for beginners. It's great as a reference though, it's super easy to look up information on the fly.
- I practice the Black Sect Tantric Tibetan Buddhist Feng Shui method but this book covers the Compass method also. After reading this delightful little book I realized that I had many changes to do in my home. Some of the other books I have read on Feng Shui were not as clear as this one is. I strongly recommend this book to anyone who practices any type of Feng Shui because it is easy to use and understand, I do however recommend that you download a picture of the Bagua to assist you in your practice.
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- If you're thinking of buying this book because you have a genuine interest in learning about feng shui, you will be very disappointed. This "book" is really better suited to a 500-word article in Family Circle magazine or Home & Garden. I was very, very disappointed.
- This is a tremendously easy book to read. It is enormously informative and well written. It guides you along so that you can use Feng shui to your advantage to achieve peace and harmony and enhance the good things in life such as romance and prosperity. It is a darling book and well worth the money.
- This is a great book. I bought one for myself and my friend. Its simple, easy to understand, and well organized. If you are just beginning to learn Feng Shui this is a great place to start. It is very specific.
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Posted in self help (Sunday, September 7, 2008)
Written by Michele, Ed.D. Borba. By Jossey-Bass.
The regular list price is $14.95.
Sells new for $3.97.
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5 comments about No More Misbehavin': 38 Difficult Behaviors and How to Stop Them.
- This book was just okay, it has a few good points but most of it was common knowledge if you are in touch with your children and how to manage their behavior...great book to get from the libray, not one to purchase.
- The title was rather seductive ... but I was disappointed, if validated. I am by no means mom of the year, but I think I already follow most of what the book suggests. This book is likely good for parents who are gobsmacked by newly emerged bad behaviors and recalcitrance, but those of us who have spent any time with the "Spririted," "Explosive" and "Active/Alert" child books will have seen/implemented most of the recommendations already.
- If you are having problems finding the words or techniques to lovingly and effectively correct your children this IS the book for you.
I became the instant (step)parent of two boys 7 and 9 who are for the most part great children, but at times need to be disciplined. I was at a loss at to how to approach the problem, but this book has given me clear and direct tools to become an effective parent.
- This book was not very good. It doesn't give enough solutions to behavior problems.
- This is a simplistic parenting overview -- not a series of solutions for a child's most difficult behaviors. The traits included are very significant and deserve serious treatment, not matter-of-fact tips that can be found in any parenting magazine which is what the book contains.
For example, the chapter on bossiness - a complex and serious negative behavior trait - gives three overly simplistic tips and then asks the parent to consider a series of questions about why the trait is bothersome. It does a very poor job of explaining the root of bossiness and gives overly simplistic advice, like "raise the child's self-esteem." If I knew how to do that, I wouldn't have had to buy the book!
Try another resource. This one won't help.
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Posted in self help (Sunday, September 7, 2008)
Written by Beverly Hills Hypnosis and Trevor H Scott. By Beverly Hills Therapy.
The regular list price is $19.95.
Sells new for $19.49.
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5 comments about Relax Your Way to Thin! Hypnosis Weight Loss Motivation.
- After having so much success with Trevor's cd "Your Power Within" I had to try "Relax Your Way to Thin." I've lost 17 pounds so far and it is fantastic! I've never wanted to say I'm on a "diet" and I didn't really want to change my eating habits. But, after listening to the cd, my whole attitude about food and healty eating habits started changing. It made me realize that I wasn't denying myself anything by eating healthier, I was actually giving myself more. The weight started coming off, I'm feeling great and I'm sleeping soundly. Awesome CD, I highly recommend it for anyone wanting to loose weight.
- I would have to disagree with Karen K who said the voice and music were irratating. I found the narrators' voice to be extremely soothing and the music to be beneficial and relaxing. In fact, for all the hypnosis tapes I've ever used, this is by far the most relaxing. I'm able to go into an extremely deep trance and always come out with the suggestion at the end (that's how I know I didn't just fall asleep). I only gave it 4 stars so far, but will update it in a couple of weeks when I see how well it works. I've been using it twice a day for two days, today is the third, and haven't seen any changes in my appetite or eating yet. It says to use it for 21 days. I don't know if that means you'll only see significant results after 21 days, or what, but I'll keep this review updated to let you know if I've lost any weight. If not, then at least I have had some incredibly relaxing sessions while I'm listening to the tape.
Day Five: I found when I went to the market I chose only healthy foods and stayed away from the junk food without even thinking about it. I checked the fat content on all food even if it said "light" or "low fat." When I saw chocolate and thought I'd like some it was immediately followed up with the thought that I didn't want to buy it. The hardest part is getting out of the store without the junk in the cart. At home, I've noticed I have not wanted to eat between meals.
- Relax Your Way to Thin! Hypnosis Weight Loss MotivationI was very skeptical about trying this, but a friend of mine went to a hypotist and lost 40 lbs. I thought I would try it on CD as I had trouble "sticking to" a diet, but was too skeptical to invest the $200 my friend paid her hypnotist. The first week I actually lost 4lbs without conciously being aware of even dieting. I noticed I seem less hungry and am not attracted to the junk food I used to eat too much of. I thought it sounded kind of off the wall to try loosing weight this way, but it has really made a difference and I would recomend it to anyone. I have been listening to it for 2 weeks and have lost a total of 6lbs without really trying.
- There are a couple of problems with this audio book. The worst problem is that it does not work. The words within the hypnotherapy session refer to low carb instead of specific examples. For example, "you will prefer low carb foods" - the problem I have with this is, your unconscious mind would then tell you to go for "low carb" instead of celery, green beans, lean meats, etc... It would be more effective if it suggested, "you will prefer green vegetables and chicken", "white bread and potatoes make you feel sick" etc.....instead of just "low carb." Its like this was a "cookie cutter" tape and they just changed the words to low carb - very disappointing.
The second problem is that the person on the tape has a lisp. The first couple of times listening are not too bad but after a while you really want to choke this guy!
I did give this a good run though as I hate throwing away my money. I tried it for two weeks with no effect and then gave up.
- I am a skeptical consumer by nature but this CD is very relaxing indeed and helps me get a deep full sleep and to stay positive. I find that I have a reduced urge to eat and when i do eat, i find that I choose more healthful options. I only lost a few pounds within the first week but who knows, it may get better.
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Posted in self help (Sunday, September 7, 2008)
Written by Stephen Arterburn and David Stoop. By Tyndale House Publishers.
The regular list price is $12.99.
Sells new for $7.61.
There are some available for $6.86.
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5 comments about The Twelve Step Life Recovery Devotional.
- This recovery Devotional is superior for my 12 step accountability group. We find it enlightening and helpful. The printing is a bit small, but the words, though small, are powerful. We use the devotional in our personal daily devotions as well as at group meetings, after our opening prayer and before our meeting.
- This sticks to the step at hand, and is goood at both explaining the steps and focusing on the importance of God.
- This is an excellent resource for those who are involved in a recovery program and want to know more about Jesus. I became familiar with the book when some women who are incarcerated requested that I provide a copy to them. It appears to be exactly what they want and need.
- It is used for weekly Twelve Step support group for Christians and encouraged for daily use independently.
- This book is a great companion with the 12 Step Devotional Bible. It isn't necessary for your 12 step Christian Book study, but it is a wonderful companion and I would definitely recommend this book too.
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Posted in self help (Sunday, September 7, 2008)
By Simon & Schuster Audio.
The regular list price is $15.00.
Sells new for $7.58.
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5 comments about How to Get What You Want.
- This is the second Zig Ziglar CD that I have purchased and it is well worth the money spent. Very upbeat and well presented, his information is timeless.
- I listened to this audio CD in the car. I was very satisfied of the message and it's delivery. I've always been able to create a destination but never knew exactly how to set the goals that would help me through a mapped out journey. Zig Ziglar uses great analogies in his seminar that anyone can comprehend and use as a model for setting their path.
The biggest lesson was about the company we keep, or the situations we keep ourselves in; we are who we associate ourselves to be. If we have negative thoughts, negative will be surrounding us. Positive thoughts will be a positive aura for us. It is our way of thinking that forms us. His example included the child with CP; this child had 30 diagnoses that he would never do, never walk, never be... but this child was raised with a different mindset and miraculous things became possible. As with a second child to reference, the child was misdiagnosed with CP; that child's life was able to show the complexity of psychology for thoughts and actions.
Zig uses humor in his anecdotes and it carries well with his audience. I found myself recognizing many things that I'd overlooked or taken for granted in the past. I chuckled often with the humorous stories. There is even a section for motivating anyone who needs help with dieting. He broke it down so well, it seems fail-proof.
I recommend this audio (and I mean AUDIO, not so much a book because you cannot feel his energy by reading text) to anyone who struggles with 'where to start' as they journey along the 'wandering' path. I look forward to hearing more of his speeches.
- I attended a "Get Motivated Seminar" and heard Zig Ziglar in person. He is amazing, funny and truly inspirational. I got Zig Ziglar's books on cd so that I can listen to them on my ipod/car. What he calls "Automotive University". I am truly inspired by him and would highly recommended all of his books!
- I have listened to the CD at least three times. I love it. I get really motivated every time I hear it. I am going to Acapulco!! (once you listen to it you will know what I mean).
- Zig is the most encouraging writer. Not only teaches you proven business skills, but how to approach life in a new way. Definitely recommend.
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Posted in self help (Sunday, September 7, 2008)
Written by Lee Jampolsky. By Celestial Arts.
The regular list price is $14.95.
Sells new for $8.84.
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4 comments about Healing the Addictive Personality: Freeing Yourself from Addictive Patterns and Relationships.
- Lee's book is an extremely helpful account of not only what an addictive personality is, but also an honest look at addiction from his own personal experience. This will be helpful to everyone,as we are all addicted to something.I hope that it will be made available to rehabilitation services and recovery centres everywhere.
- When we think of the word addictive, we think of drugs, alchohol... In this book the Author discusses addictive personality traits that surface as we go about our day. Many of us don't realize the addictions we carry around with us. This book is amazing! I think that anyone who wants to hold healthy conversations with their loved ones on a regular basis and implement a true sense of happiness into their daily activities and events must run out and grab this book!
- Healing the Addictive Personality is a great book for any one who wants to be happier and healthier. I have met with Lee Jampolsky. He helps me be a better person.
The book does a particularly good job of helping us understand the ways that our own biology as well as our own will help us determine our own peace of mind.
In my quest to have the life I want, I have found this book to be very helpful and I recommend it to everyone.
John Hoffmire
- This book is a true gift to anyone wanting to heal not only from addictive patterns, but also on all levels of one's life. With compassion and open honesty, Lee Jampolsky shares many insights along with his own experience on healing from addictions to bring us to a better understanding of our true nature and how forgiveness can heal us at our very core. This is a must read for anyone wishing to live a happier life.
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Posted in self help (Sunday, September 7, 2008)
Written by Brain Sync. By Brain Sync.
The regular list price is $14.95.
Sells new for $8.39.
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5 comments about Deep Learning.
- I cannot sit and study without having this CD playing through my headphones. I swear this will help you read smoother, understand what you're reading while your reading it, retain information longer, and enhance your study sessions. I simply put the CD in my player, put on some large 'noise-cancelling' headphones, and start reading my textbooks. When it comes times for tests, you will find information recollection coming to you in droves. I swear, this is the best CD out there for studying. Please try it.
- I must confess something (hey, is my manager around?) - I kind of became unable to focus at work in the last months, so much stress took its toll on me, and I'm now trying to get all the help I can. I saw this CD recommended in a Listmania, looked over the existing reviews and ordered one. You know what? IT WORKS! I am now able to do much better, since I work listening to it all the time. After a few days on this CD, I started getting some lecithin help, and the effects apparently combined. I hope that I will improve even more, I'll continue these and also try other relaxation techniques. Anyway, I carry this CD from in my bag, to have it available both at home and in the office. Get yours!
- This Cd is good but for me it was kind of hard to relax to because it kind of has the same tone pattern throughout the cd which made my mind wander. I really want to try one that has speaking on it. I think it would provide a better guide for me. But all in all I use this occasionally when I need to just try to chill, but I like yoga better!hehe :) Hope this was helpful.
- The Cd is lovely to listen to. I was surprised to be listening to the sound of waves breaking on the beach, pleasantly.
- I only use this item to meditate. But without any voice this is great for my use.
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Guided Meditations for Busy People
Parenting With Grace: Catholic Parent's Guide to Raising Almost Perfect Kids
The Bunny Book: How to Walk, Talk, Tease, and Please Like a Playboy Bunny
Feng Shui Dos & Taboos
No More Misbehavin': 38 Difficult Behaviors and How to Stop Them
Relax Your Way to Thin! Hypnosis Weight Loss Motivation
The Twelve Step Life Recovery Devotional
How to Get What You Want
Healing the Addictive Personality: Freeing Yourself from Addictive Patterns and Relationships
Deep Learning
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