5 comments about Comprehensive Stress Management.

1. I cannot seriously believe that this book is supposed to be a text for college students. I think this one paragraph sums it up:

   "Hey, Harry, here comes another shipment," said Joe Saliva to his brother. The Salivas live in the mouth and, when food enters, they help break it down to small manageable pieces. These pieces are then mailed by pneumatic tube (the esophagus) to Phil Hydrochloric Acid who lives in Stomachville. Hydrochloric acid (HCl) activates enzymes that break the food down even further so it can pass into the small intestine. Another town, Liver, sends Bobby Bile to help break down the fatty shipments. Once these shipments (food) are made small they can be placed in local post offices for delivery to various other cities (body parts). The pieces without ZIP codes are unusable and are discarded by being sent via the large intestine through the anus into space (that is, flushed into another galaxy).

   There is nothing I can add to that.




2. This book is good if your taking this course in college because my professor allowed me to use since there really was no change but just another small chapter. The newest edition is about 100 dollars so if you can first ask your professor if you can buy this one to use in class. It is a better value than spending a lot on a new edition without much change.



3. I purchased this book for about $75.00 and noticed that it is also for sale in a paperback version for about $12.00. I don't feel like I got my $75.00 worth, but if I paid $12.00 I would have had lower expectations.
   
   What I liked about the book is that it was comprehensive in the sense that it touched on a lot of different areas. It also had excellent references. In fact, this is probably the best reason to own the book.
   
   Unfortunately, there were several inaccuracies in the stress psychopysiology chapter and I think the author could have been more clear in his explanations. This shocked me given that the book is in it's ninth printing! I must admit the author lost some credibility with me when I hit this chapter, but the rest of the chapters seemed solid with respect to content.
   
   The other chapters were more clearly written and I liked the roadblock model of stress that was introduced. This is certainly a useful model to use for thinking of stress intervention despite its apparent simplicity. This was probably the most interesting chapter to me. The other chapters had useful information, but they were rather superficial. They were good in terms of raising awareness about a particular topic, but they left me hungry for more information.
   
   I did not like the author's tone and the way he delivered advice. I found that he made stress management and the solution to stress related issues sound too simple. His approach came across as stress management was simply a matter of applying his formula in an easy and mechanical way. In short, this seemed like a naive approach without mentioning the cognitive complexities that intefere with applying the formula!
   
   If you are only looking for a survey of stress management and light coverage of the most common interventions, then this book can help you with that. However, if you want an in-depth look at the biology, I would consider "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers." Be warned, however, that this other book goes into a fair amount of depth on the biology side. However, it is extremely well written and I'm not aware of ANY book that covers the health implications of stress in a more eloquent (and often humorous) fashion.
   
   With respect to psychological interventions for stress, I think there are many books that might serve the reader better. One book to consider that is good, but more specialized is Full Catastrophe Living. I would also look at books that explore the cognitive aspects of stress management. There are a lot of them out there.
   
   My bottom line on this book is that for $75.00 you can buy "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers" and four other books that cover the same territory much better. However, for a survey course accompanied by complimentary readings, it would probably be adequate.
   
   If I saw this book on the shelf of a bookstore, I would probably pass because it wasn't exciting to read and I think there is better stuff available. However, at $11.00-12.00 it would be tempting to buy it just for all the references.



4. Fantastic! A book that teachs effective ways of managing stress with out all the mumbo jumbo. I love the assessments provided at the end of each chapter; they help you learn more about yourself (how you handle stress, your personality, and how you react to others). I was required to use this book in a college stress management class, the text definitely help me understand relaxtion techniques and all of the components of stress and relief. It provides plenty of information that is clearly stated and easy to read and understand. I recommend this book to everyone wanting to find more effective and healthy ways of living life.



5. Almost every example and story Mr. Greenberg relates in this book has some sexual/romantic/dating overtone to it. I found this quite funny actually.
   As it's title suggests, it's a read about how to reduce stress and learn to relax and smell the roses. There are chapters on meditation to spirituality to biofeedback and of course different forms of stress. He begins most chapters with experiences that he's either had or know of someone who has experienced it.

5 comments about The Mood Cure: The 4-Step Program to Take Charge of Your Emotions--Today.

1. While reading this book, examining my own program (I have 3 of the 4 most common mood imbalances), and shopping for the supplements, I've become aware of a few practical matters that I think people should be aware of.
   
   First, this method can take some time. For example, if 5-HTP doesn't work, you should try typtophan. If that doesn't work, you should move on to St John's Wort. If THAT doesn't work, try SAM-e - at least one bottle's worth. Dealing with 3 of the 4 imbalances, I won't know what works and what doesn't if I start taking all of the recomended supplements at the same time. That means going through one by one, which I realize will take a while. Don't get discouraged if you aren't cured on the first day.
   
   Second, this method can be costly. A month's supply of 5-HTP runs $36 here. A month's supply of SAM-e is $158. Compare that to my $3 co-pay for a month's supply of my antidepressant.
   
   Let me state that I'm not advising against this program. I generally believe that being drug-free is better than taking drugs, if you can get the same or better results another way. Just realize going in that this program will require time, energy, money, and commitment.



2. Easy reading. Packed with up-to-date information, and loads of reference material to guide you.



3. I have read many books regarding health and nutrition, and only took bits and pieces from those books. This is the first one I heeded the information on. I was sad and depressed occasionally (more often than not), and ate according to my moods. I discovered that my moods were primarily caused by the food I choose to eat. I changed my diet and most of my lifestyle was starting to change before reading it. I can say that when my moods were bad, I would be angry, shy or quite. I can be a better person to others and myself and no longer feel like being killed on the freeway from accidents caused by others. LOL. But really, I'm sure some people understand that, I have had many other people relate to that idea and am not afraid to admit how I felt. I have learned so much from reading this book, which I have helped others understand and try things suggested from the book. I went out and bought a friend a bottle of 5HTP and the book as a gift, because I wanted to share this good feeling. The book is easy to understand, as Julia Ross explains it all. The Mood Cure: The 4-Step Program to Rebalance Your Emotional Chemistry and Rediscover Your Natural Sense of Well-Being



4. every book has aspects that are debatable. we are supposed to separate the "good" and the "bad" on our own. this was a great book. i started taking some of the aminoacids , based on the questionnaires in the book, and I found it helpful.



5. This is a truly outstanding book and is intended to help people suffering from real, deep and intractable emotional and mental problems.
   
   Julia Ross is a true pro, working at the front line of mental health care for several decades. This is a book that brings together her hard won knowledge with that of many, many other experts in the field. There is a also a decent amount of scientific research at its core.
   
   Compared with the extrememly poor care offered by the average clinical psychologist or psychiatrist (they essetially offer only drugs or cognitive behaviour therapy) this book heralds the beginning of a revolution in mental health care: at last some people are beginning to recognise that there is a REASON why you (or a friend or relative) is suffering such serious problems with mood, emotions and behaviour. At last there begin to be real solutions which are wholistic and effective.
   
   Julia covers all the main issues - anxiety, depression, OCD, addictions, mood swings and the generally feeling awful and unstable that so many have. She explains why it is happening and which food and supplements to correct it. There are easy to use questionnaires which guide you in understanding which TYPE of depression or anxiety you suffer from and thereby tailor the solution.
   
   Be warned, her solutions are a VERY long way from the general advice just to eat healthily. This is hard core scientific solutions. And a lot of back up with very specific recommendations for amino acids (to make all those neurotransmitters that regulate mood - dopamine, serotonin & GABA) and vitamins and minerals which are used in specific high doses as medicines.
   
   The solution requires work and commitment. But ultimately it is highly workable and simple in structure. And it really changes lives.
   
   Julia Ross opens a door and throws open the windows on a room in which so many feel trapped. No more decades of incomprehensible misery. I use this book in my practice and buy copies in bulk to give to my patients. It is an outstanding introduction - written in an engaging style but with a good strong foundation in science. A serious book that nevertheless invites everyone in.
   
   As a response to the negative reviews below, Ms Ross does indeed take a dim view of vegetarianism - but a) this is a small point in a large and rich book and b) she has this view born of years of experience. A high protein diet is necessary for people suffering emotional health problems because protein is the source of the neurotransmitters which will ultimately cure the depression, anxiety etc. Some people are genetically predisposed to need more than average. Protein is also important for blood sugar stabilisation - unstable blood sugar being near universal with any eating issues, carbohydrate cravings, sugar addictions, much anxiety and mood swings. I find I need to give most of my vegetarian patients protein supplement powders (whey, pea, rice protein etc) before I can build up their programme of recovery further.
   
   In summary a very good book to start your journey. Of equal excellence (in some ways superior) and more scientific in its approach (the emphasis more on neutraceuticals supplements than diet) is Depression Free Naturally by Joan Larson. Don't be fooled by the title - is covers all major issues including very serious ones like schizophrenia.
   
   Additionally, anyone with serious emotional and mental issues should buy Gut and Psychology Syndrome - that gut toxicity is highly involved in much illness is now beyond debate and at least 45% of my patients need help with their gut before they can properly recover. This book will explain how and why.
   
   Good luck and whatever happens don't give up. There are answers to your struggles. The Mood Cure and Depression Free Naturally will be a good start. Add in the book on Gut and Psychology, Adrenal Fatigue, a good book on the thyroid and maybe something on mercury toxicity. A great deal of mental suffering can be alleviated with these interventions. Have faith - a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. You will be taking the first when you buy this book.
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   I am very surprised at the negative reviews below. Please don't let them put you off. This is a truly outstanding book and is intended to help people suffering from real, deep and intractable emotional and mental problems.
   
   Julia Ross is a true pro, working at the front line of mental health care for several decades. This is a book that brings together her hard won knowledge with that of many, many other experts in the field. There is a also a decent amount of scientific research at its core.
   
   Compared with the extrememly poor care offered by the average clinical psychologist or psychiatrist (they essetially offer only drugs or cognitive behaviour therapy) this book heralds the beginning of a revolution in mental health care: at last some people are beginning to recognise that there is a REASON why you (or a friend or relative) is suffering such serious problems with mood, emotions and behaviour. At last there begin to be real solutions which are wholistic and effective.
   
   Julia covers all the main issues - anxiety, depression, OCD, addictions, mood swings and the generally feeling awful and unstable that so many have. She explains why it is happening and which food and supplements to correct it. There are easy to use questionnaires which guide you in understanding which TYPE of depression or anxiety you suffer from and thereby tailor the solution.
   
   Be warned, her solutions are a VERY long way from the general advice just to eat healthily. This is hard core scientific solutions. And a lot of back up with very specific recommendations for amino acids (to make all those neurotransmitters that regulate mood - dopamine, serotonin & GABA) and vitamins and minerals which are used in specific high doses as medicines.
   
   The solution requires work and commitment. But ultimately it is highly workable and simple in structure. And it really changes lives.
   
   Julia Ross opens a door and throws open the windows on a room in which so many feel trapped. No more decades of incomprehensible misery. I use this book in my practice and buy copies in bulk to give to my patients. It is an outstanding introduction - written in an engaging style but with a good strong foundation in science. A serious book that nevertheless invites everyone in.
   
   As a response to the negative reviews below, Ms Ross does indeed take a dim view of vegetarianism - but a) this is a small point in a large and rich book and b) she has this view born of years of experience. A high protein diet is necessary for people suffering emotional health problems because protein is the source of the neurotransmitters which will ultimately cure the depression, anxiety etc. Some people are genetically predisposed to need more than average. Protein is also important for blood sugar stabilisation - unstable blood sugar being near universal with any eating issues, carbohydrate cravings, sugar addictions, much anxiety and mood swings. I find I need to give most of my vegetarian patients protein supplement powders (whey, pea, rice protein etc) before I can build up their programme of recovery further.
   
   In summary a very good book to start your journey. Of equal excellence (in some ways superior) and more scientific in its approach (the emphasis more on neutraceuticals supplements than diet) is Depression Free Naturally by Joan Larson. Don't be fooled by the title - is covers all major issues including very serious ones like schizophrenia.
   
   Additionally, anyone with serious emotional and mental issues should buy Gut and Psychology Syndrome - that gut toxicity is highly involved in much illness is now beyond debate and at least 45% of my patients need help with their gut before they can properly recover. This book will explain how and why.
   
   Good luck and whatever happens don't give up. There are answers to your struggles. The Mood Cure and Depression Free Naturally will be a good start. Add in the book on Gut and Psychology, Adrenal Fatigue, a good book on the thyroid and maybe something on mercury toxicity. A great deal of mental suffering can be alleviated with these interventions. Have faith - a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. You will be taking the first when you buy this book.

5 comments about The Disorganized Mind: Coaching Your ADHD Brain to Take Control of Your Time, Tasks, and Talents.

1. I have just completed reading Ms. Ratey's book and thoroughly enjoyed. She uses her personal experience in conveying her message. I have worked in the mental health field for 30 years and feel that this book is an invaluable resource for professionals who deal with these types of challenges on a daily basis! Kudos to Ms Ratey. I'm waiting for Volume 2!! ThanksThe Disorganized Mind: Coaching Your ADHD Brain to Take Control of Your Time, Tasks, and Talents



2. I found JackofMostTrades' review reasonable. Perhaps if he gave it one star, one might consider bias - but three stars for this book is very reasonable. I did have trouble finishing it - I guess I'm one of those that got bored half-way through. (Although for the sake of this review I have skimmed the rest) Personally I think everyone with ADD/ADHD should read the book, "A Perfect Mess." Guess what, being somewhat messy can actually be MORE efficient and productive than being a neat-nik. This understanding allows one to focus on those messy habits that truly lead to inefficiency rather than those that just make one's home ineligible to be displayed in Better Homes and Gardens. Reading that book first will help one ignore any inadvisable recommendations and proscriptions in Ms. Ratey's book (and there certainly are some.)
   
   If one has ever set about to clean/organize a room/closet by emptying all the stuff out only to become overwhelmed and left with a greater mess than one began with, this book promotes a psychological equivalent. Yes in theory inventorying all aspects of one's life can help with priority setting - but in practice it's about as successful as organizing a room by dumping everything on the floor first.
   
   It's not surprising that coaches would of course advocate for this book. (Note the vast majority of 5 star ratings are by coaches.) However, Jack is correct, there never has been a study showing the effectiveness of coaching in ADHD. Of course, coaches will like a book that promotes coaching. That doesn't mean there is any science behind it. For a non coach like me - I didn't find the book that useful.
   
   The book doesn't really acknowledge/discuss that ADHD is not about having a disorganized mind but rather a differently organized mind. Thus it fails to capitalize on the strengths that come with having a differently organized mind. When she talks about focusing on accomplishments, she considers these accomplishments as having occurred despite ADHD not because of ADHD. I think understanding the way ADHD is a strength is important to helping one overcome the ways it is also a weakness.
   
   It accepts certain concepts as normative - like the idea that mess creates stress. Actually it is attitudes towards mess that create stress. That's why I recommend A Perfect Mess. Getting rid of the idea that mess/seeming disorganization is inherently bad will do much more to reduce your stress than stressing about organizing. (She doesn't discuss how much of shame is culturally induced - but conforming to the dominant culture isn't always the best solution.) Sometimes mess is a sign of efficiency and sometimes it interferes with efficiency. The key is figuring out which is which. Promoting the concept that laundry isn't done until it's put away (as this book does) obscures the fact that for some people it is more efficient to not put one's laundry away. It's also possible to have a functionally organized kitchen where almost nothing has a "home." It looks messy and cluttered but it's highly functional and there's nothing wrong (and much right) with prioritizing function over a neat appearance.
   
   The client examples are both a strength and a weakness. On the one hand it is useful to see the ANSWER technique applied. On the other hand the client reasons for a problem may not have anything to do with the reader's reasons for a problem and her discussions are not always complete enough to assist the reader in problem solving their own barriers. Furthermore the ANSWER technique by assigning the difficulty to the ADHD brain - may fail to help the struggling reader identify non ADHD contributions. People are more than their ADHD.
   
   For example, this is particularly salient in the discussion of procrastination. Labeling procrastination as an "ADHD cause" of a "symptom" such as difficulty prioritizing ignores that procrastination itself has a number of causes which often need to be addressed in order to stop procrastinating. For example, anxiety/fear can be a major contributor to procrastination and adults with ADHD commonly have higher levels of anxiety than non adults without as well as a high rate of comorbid anxiety disorders (up to a 50% in some studies.) Yet anxiety isn't even mentioned as a potential issue in the chapter on procrastination. And anxiety's contribution to ADHD problems isn't just true of procrastination - a study of adults with ADHD found an anxious state was more predictive of learning/memory deficits than poor organizational strategies or lack of sustained attention. It may be that this is a limitation in the coaching approach itself rather than specifically this book. Either way I felt that the section on procrastination was incomplete and of limited usefulness.
   
   Strengths:
   I liked the problem solving approach and discussion of the need to find individualized solutions. I liked the emphasis on not blaming or shaming and avoiding judgment. I think its discussion of ways to instruct one's executive assistant to be more helpful is something that is not commonly discussed and probably useful if applicable. (Does not apply to me, unfortunately.) I think that, particularly for someone who has not read many other books on ADHD, organizing, etc, a number of the suggestions could be useful.
   
   However, if you are a person with ADD who has a large collection of half read books on ADHD - there is a reasonably large probability that this book will join your half-read collection. The best antidote for this problem that I've found is checking books out of the library rather than buying them. I bought this book based on all the exuberant reviews of those coaches who apparently had received a prelease copy, but in retrospect I should have reigned in my impulsivity and impatience and waited until this book arrived at my local library. Half read library books don't add to clutter once they are returned. :)



3. What a unique "self-help" book for individuals with ADHD. Many collections are written as a laundry list of suggestions that are clearly unrealistic, especially for individuals with ADHD. Nancy Ratey has not given any suggestions at all per se; rather, she merely shares with us her victorious story of courage, strength, and hope.
   
   With Nancy's perspective I was given piece of mind by knowing we do not have to make this journey alone. Prior to reading this book I had never considered the blessings ADHD has brought to my life. I had only ruminated on the fact that I was always late, procrastinating, disorganized, and inattentive. I never stopped to relish in the fact that I am verbally gifted, empathetic, humble, creative, and fearless. This book provides a wonderful reminder of the amazing gifts of ADHD as well as a means to manage the deficiencies. Accepting that we have a problem and being armed with the knowledge that there are resources available to us to manage the problems is an amazing gift to all of us who have lived in turmoil for so long.
   
   Nancy serves as proof that individuals with ADHD can be successful in all facets of their lives. With individuals like Nancy Ratey in this world individuals with ADHD can find balance and peace in their lives.



4. There are plenty of books about ADHD (although not enough for adults) and some are better than others. This is definitely one of the better ones. Nancy has been in the ADHD trenches for a long time and it shows. She understands ADHD through and through. She offers plenty of strategies and helps her readers really understand the many facets of ADHD. Some books are too simplistic or talk about things that are simply not accurate. It's clear that Nancy has a sophisticated understanding of this complex disorder. She goes beyond the obvious advice that just doesn't work (if it did, you wouldn't need to read this review or read her book). I'm thrilled to have one more resource to recommend to clients.
   
   --Ari Tuckman, PsyD, MBA
   Author of "Integrative Treatment for Adult ADHD: A Practical, Easy-to-Use Guide for Clinicians"



5. I bought this book because I was hoping that it would provide me with the necessary tools to calm my otherwise disorganized ADD mind. The book description on Amazon seemed to fit my situation perfectly, and I impulsively bought the book here on eBay. I thought that in a worst case scenario, I may pick up a tool or 2 that would help me somehow. My best case scenario of actually being able to USE the information was what I was shooting for.
   
   Imagine my pleasant surprise when I received this book and found that it would help me in numerous situations that I struggle with every day. If you have ADD/ADHD, then you would be familiar with the impulsivity, distraction, hyperfocusing, finanacial distasters, clutter in your home, and on and on. I deal with one or more of these situations every single day that rolls over my head. For me, it is very frustrating.
   
   Nancy Ratey has ADD and dyslexia, and she has grown up with it all of her life. She has managed to carve out ways to deal with ADD through being a life coach for adults with ADD. This book is a testament to her abilities as a coach, along with client histories to show how she helped those clients conquer the very ADD symptoms that we all struggle with on a good day.
   
   She developed the A.N.S.W.E.R. strategy that gives the reader a way to analyze what is working for them and what is not. My favorite part of the book is how she consistently teaches her clients and her readers to not look at ADD as a problem child, but rather look at it as a neurological condition that has to be managed. ADD patients are NOT a disease. We are all people, creative people, and we all deal with the same or similar situations in our every day world.
   
   Some of us may have more impulsivity and distraction, while others may hyperfocus on things that can cause discord in both our personal and professional lives. The author shows us how bring balance into our otherwise chaotic worlds with down-to-earth strategies and concepts that are easy to understand.
   
   This book gave me hope that I CAN do what I set out to do. I just have to structure my life and my goals in such a way that the ADD works with me and not against me. I can do that! So can others who have the distinction of having been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD.
   
   It does NOT have to be a thorn in your behind, unless you make a conscious choice for it to be there. The author has appendices in the back that list ADD support groups and ADD resources to help all of us change that which drives us nuts without coaching.
   
   I found that I work best with someone to coach me and/or be an accountability partner. Hiring a coach is an expensive venture, and this book shows me how to become my own coach when money is tight, as it is right now.
   
   This is definitely a book that I will refer back to over and over again. I think that if you purchase it, you will use it until the pages are worn out from use.
   
   I do hope that the author will come out with a workbook that will coincide with the content of this book to offer the reader full-size workbook pages to keep up with the information and questions that we need to ask ourselves when we are trying to come up with solutions based on this book.
   
   Controlling my ADD is going to be easier with the help of this book. I think it just might reach out to help quite a few other people too! I think this was one of my better impulsive buys, and it is definitely one that I do not regret making. Get a copy today!

5 comments about I Wasn't Ready to Say Goodbye (Updated Edition): Surviving, Coping and Healing After the Sudden Death of a Loved One.

1. I first heard about this book in the "Ask Amy" advice column. I have given copies to my grown daughter and to a co-worker who each faced a sudden death of a loved one. Both said the book helped them through a very difficult experience. I cannot recommend this book too highly.



2. I read this book to help me cope with the sudden death of a loved one. It was somewhat helpful, but it mainly covered the same information in another book I read in a much less comprehensive manner. That book is How to Go on Living When Someone You Love Dies by Therese Rando and I highly recommend reading that book. It is the best I have read on the topic of grief/death/mourning. These authors had good intentions, but I think you will get more out of the Rando book.



3. I bought this for a friend who had lost her husband. She thanks me all the time for the book. She said it was well written and helped her a lot throughout her grieving.



4. I liked this book and would recommend it for anyone who has lost someone suddenly or for anyone who wants to understand what that person is going through. The authors speak from personal experiences and offer different perspectives on how people experience sudden loss. The book goes into the stages of grieving and then discusses how others are affected when they loose a parent, child, partner, sibling etc... The book includes exercises for dealing with the grieving process. There is also a workbook available with more tools for dealing with this type of loss.



5. This book touched on a lot of helpful topics following the loss of a loved one. I gave the book as a gift to my mother when my father passed and she found some comfort and guideance from this selection.

5 comments about Five Wishes: How Answering One Simple Question Can Make Your Dreams Come True.

1. Fantastic book to help you consider what are the really important things in your life NOW - before it's too late. An easy-to-read, entertaining and thought provoking book about how to prioritise the things you feel you need to do,while you still have time. Don't leave it a day longer!



2. How do you figure out what you truly wish for? What will give you meaning? This book suggests you answer those questions by looking backwards from your deathbed. The author encourages us to ask and re-ask the big questions. He provides five key questions to assess whether you are living a successful life now. He stresses the importance of continuing to ask and answer those fundamental questions in order to stay focused on whether your life is consistent with your answers. The author was prompted to write this book by a stranger who had asked him to imagine himself on his deathbed and to consider the question: "Was your life a complete success?" If not, "What would be the things you'd wish had happened that would have made it a success?" I think the perspective of pretending to be on one's deathbed and then look back is brilliant! This is a wonderful book - after you read it, you will continue to ponder its message. I recommend it along with a companion book for both body and mind, THE 3:00 PM SECRET: Live Slim and Strong, Live Your Dreams.



3. This little book has a very powerful, very simple, and life changing challenge. 5 Wishes....that's all. The first time I read this book, I made my list and felt like I was on top of the world for weeks. But the 5 Wishes I had listed weren't exactly what my heart said, they were what my mind said (and still I soared for weeks!). The second time I read over the book and made my list, my 5 wishes were authentic and have been very powerful for me. As someone who has read dozens of books trying to find the "authentic me", this one is my favorite. It is a very quick read, but don't let yourself get lost in the people Mr. Hendricks speaks of....get lost in yourself. I'm becoming the person I want to be now. I'm on the "right path". And this little book has provided me with the inspiration and desire to actually follow my heart. Thank you, Gay Hendricks!



4. If you were on your deathbed and you were asked, "Was your life a complete success?"
   
   How would you answer this question? If your answer is that your life wasn't a complete success, what things would you wish had been different in your life?
   
   This thought-provoking and soulful inquiry is the basis for "Five Wishes." Through this process, the author comes up with five wishes for things he would change in his life:
   
   1. Lasting love
   2. Completing
   3. Writing from the heart
   4. Feeling God
   5. Savoring life
   
   Each one of these wishes becomes goals by which to transform your life. This is an inspiring little book that covers a lot of territory.
   
   You have to also read "Nexus: A Neo Novel" - a powerful story of love, compassion and transformation.



5. A very thought provoking book. It's a quick read but very powerful. I have enjoyed this book very much and plan to give this book to my friends and family as a gift.

5 comments about The Anger Trap: Free Yourself from the Frustrations that Sabotage Your Life.

1. I haven't completely finished this book yet but so far it has been very helpful. I have read numerous self help books over the years and find that most are not very useful. This one, however, is very insightful and certainly gives the reader a lot to think about. I think most people could truly benefit from this book. I am recommending it to friends and family.



2. A very helpful book. I saw so many people I know in its pages. It helps to create understanding about what is causing anger. It assures us that anger does not go away because there will always be people and situations that make us angry. It is impossible to create some zen state where nothing bothers us. But it helps to illustrate why certain ways of dealing with anger don't ever get us anywhere and suggests alternative approaches that will make life easier for us and those who are close to us.



3. Great book, it has changed my life (no bull). Anger is as debilitating as cancer. You may not even be aware of how angry you are, or how you're expressing it. The great thing about the book is it teaches you that you have options, and you can change how you handle your anger. You can make use of your anger to improve your life. Anyone would benefit from reading this book.



4. I bought this for my husband, who was willing & interested in dealing with his anger issues. Both of us agreed that it was just a silly pile of psycho-babble. Really.



5. I thought the Anger Trap was very insightful and as I read through it I recognized my typical anger-generating habits of thinking. I also learned ways to retrain my thinking - slowly but surely - in order the respond to things less emotionally. I also learned that when I am "angry" I am probably really something else - disappointed, afraid, frustrated, feeling rejected or dismissed. When I start to get mad now I pause and ask myself, "what is really going on here?" and that alone has enabled me to explore other sides to my personality that I have tried to ignore for the last 30 yrs. I can get through situations that used to make me blow my top as a sane, calm person now. It helps to dialogue with myself (silently, of course, lest they get the net!) by using techniques from the book.
   
   My only beef with the premise (it's always something...) is that the author goes with the idea that anger comes from past problems. Grow up with a dad who yells or hits and you'll yell or hit. However, there are many studies that show that a violent home does not necessarily beget a violent child, a calm home does not beget a calm child. Just as anxiety can run in families or depression, might not problems such as overreaction to stimulus? If the dad is a yeller, perhaps it is his genes that pass on the anger and not his yelling. Otherwise, why don't all people from certain types of parents exhibit the behavior? I bring this up, because it is easier to face the problem sometimes when there is no one to blame (except perhaps God, if you lean that way). Rather than bemoan the mess a parent has made of one, it might be better to treat it as a limp that runs in the family but was not bequeathed with any malice. You have the limp, now figure out how to walk with it. You have the temper, now figure out how to respond to life as a decent human being with it.

5 comments about Life Is a Verb: 37 Days to Wake Up, Be Mindful, and Live Intentionally.

1. Patti Digh has done a marvelous job translating her 37days blog (already a brilliant work-in-the-making, as she posts regularly) into hard copy with all the benefits a printed book can provide. To her publisher's credit, they went all out to make this book beautiful, and it is, and it matches the complexity and simplicity, at turns, her words offer.
   
   There will be lots of reviewers who comment on Patti's amazing talent for getting to the heart of the matter, and thus, to our hearts. What I find just as fascinating about Patti is her sense of humor, one which operates at all levels.
   
   Her ability to offer her joy in addition to her passion for her subject matter is what has hooked me since I first discovered her blog.
   
   Life is a Verb is an in-the-moment perfect snapshot of three years of Patti's wisdom, pain, insight, and sighing admission of shortfalls.
   
   Buy this book. I promise you will be thanking Patti that you did!



2. This book should be required reading in every college, high school and jr. high to teach kids how to become authentic, compassionate, caring adults. I've read Patti Digh's blog from the get-go and it has enriched and completely altered my life and my way of thinking. I want to be her!!!!! This book is a gold mine, pure and simple.
   
   When I'm feeling blue, she cheers me up.
   When I'm feeling invisible, she rearranges the molecules of my thinking.
   When I'm down, she lifts me up.
   When I'm sad, she makes me happy to be alive. . . all with her luminous, fabulous, magical essays. Thank you, Patti, for this gift you've given the world. This tattooed grammy loves you fiercely!!!
   
   If you need a book that will enrich your life every single day, then buy this one. And get several copies because you will most definitely want to share with your friends and loved ones.



3. It makes you think about how to live your life better - not necessarily more organized or efficient or more anything, unless the "more" is some part of your own personal "better". The writing exercises are excellent, bite-sized, and spur you to much deeper consideration of the topics. And the writing itself is funny, real, down-to-earth and extremely moving. I've bought one copy and will buy several more as gifts.



4. To have Patti Digh's "37 Days' in BOOK form is to have the most amazing sourcebook for soul sustenance I have ever run across - and I read A LOT! Patti is clearly both gardener and chef; from the seeds she plants to the manna she provides. If your life is lacking color and depth (and humor, ah yes!), if you're missing that feeling of being connected and necessary, or losing your sense of direction or self - this book's for you.
   Being a devoted fan of Patti's "37 Days" blog for the past several years, I was anxious to have the book, but didn't expect the additional impact that "Patti in print" would have for me. I lift my head reluctantly from the pages; but need to break and savor all the different sensory stirrings as I read her words. Cerebrally and soulfully nourished as I am by all that this book contains, I'm craving more, and look forward to filling my shelves with the next editions (additions?) of her unique diet of life lessons, personal musings or anything else she might choose to cook up! Bon appetit!



5. Inspired by the death of her step-father (and informed by the death of her father), Patti Digh's book offers advice, nudges, and insistence toward joy and responsibility (not quite the word I want), in equal measure.
   
   With essays like "Dance in Your Car," "Follow Your Desire Lines," and "Always Rent the Red Convertible," Digh urges us to loosen up, take chances, take hold of this "one wild and precious life" (as she quotes Mary Oliver).
   
   But she assumes a life of joy will be a life touched and shaped by other people, and she includes their care in her instruction manual. "Save Face for Someone Else," and "Wear Pink Glasses" offer models of graceful ways of being with, seeing, and upholding other people. "Love Unloveable People" gently offers each of us a daunting challenge: to respond to what is good in everyone.
   
   Digh doesn't overlook the challenges of relationship, including our relationship to self. From "Choose Your Seatmates Wisely," to "Burn those Jeans," "Don't Sell Your Red Shoes" and "Say Wow When You See a Bus," she offers fresh perspectives on familiar situations and straight-jackets of "propriety," inviting each of us to find a way to be a little more authentic.
   
   The essays alone would be engaging and provocative, as Digh has proven in her blog, 37days. In the book a precious few are arranged to illustrate her six-point guide to a life marked by Intensity, Inclusion, Integrity, Intimacy, Intuition, and Intention. Each is followed by a short exercise to help the reader respond to and integrate the example, and a longer "movement" exercise that readers are invited to take up for 37 days: be alone for 30 minutes every day, write ten letters (in longhand) over the course of 37 days, ask yourself at lunch (for 37 days) "Am I becoming someone I respect?"
   
   Digh suggests we take on that last question at lunch, so that we have the afternoon to save ourselves, if we are failing. It is just this kind of gentle wisdom, this confidence in all of us, that leads me to embrace this book.

5 comments about Living The Secret Everyday: My Secret Workbook.

1. Fantastic book on the subject of the Law of Attraction. I will list the reasons 1. Loved the workbook format (interactive)
   2. All the recipes (exercises) to reinforce the principle.
   3. Pick and choose those exercises that work for you.
   4. a clear understanding on meditation, relaxation and creative visualization and step-by-step approach
   5. Journal at the end of the book to record your desires, beliefs and feelings.
   And many other reasons.



2. If you want to learn about the Law of Attraction also known by the bestseller, The Secret, you must read this book. It goes beyond The Secret by its explanation, details, examples, and interactive workbook.
   The authors give you so many exercises to choose from and a journal to record whatever you like. I only use about 10 exercises of the over 40 they give and it works for me.



3. If you are interested and believe in the Law of Attraction, this is the book for you. Easy to read, simple to understand and it reinforces the principles by use of exercises. It has changed my life. I have a routine now that I follow as a result of this book and am happier for it. I use the exercises with the forms within the book and the journal to record my feelings.



4. Living The Secret Everyday: My Secret Workbook
   Oprah was right - they should be teaching this in schools. Teens learn how to practice gratitude, set personal goals, and begin the practice of "possibility thinking". The workbook is very effective and enjoyable, a wonderful sping board for discussion.



5. I have been practicing the law of attraction for years, but Living the Secret Everyday: My Secret Workbook is a terrific reminder of the basics to draw what it is that you want into your life. I also like that you write in the book, as it keeps your personal thoughts with the motivational book.
   
   As an interior designer, I have discovered the additional power of using the energy in one's home to manifest your desires. No book describes this process better than HARMONIOUS ENVIRONMENT: BEAUTIFY, DETOXIFY & ENERGIZE YOUR LIFE, YOUR HOME & YOUR PLANET.
   
   Read the books together and manifest all your desires!

5 comments about Self-Esteem Affirmations.

1. This cd is very calming, affirming, and sleep-inducing! It truly helps to bring peace and is what I have to come to expect from Louise L. Hay.
   
   Worthwhile investment!



2. This cd is a must these days. We tend to put ourselves down, sometimes without even knowing it. This cd will put you back on track with loving affirmations and truthful statements about our true selves. Try it! You can lay down put the cd on listne and relax. It can be considered a self love meditation!



3. One Day She'll Darken: The Mysterious Beginnings of Fauna Hodel
   LOUISE HAY'S WORK...HELPED ME HEAL MY INNER WOUNDED CHILD in the 80's...TO THIS DAY..WHEN I NEED TO SURRENDER MY FEARS...I PUT ON HER MEDITATION TAPES....HER VOICE..HER WISDOM..CALMS ME...AND PUTS ME RIGHT BACK ON TRACK...



4. I just got this yesterday and have listened to it twice so I can't speak on it's effectiveness but I can say, however, that it's hard to believe that there are messages on this tape. The music is really cheesy and so I can't give it fiver stars, but it's all you can hear. So, at least it lives up to it's advert. I found the side where she speaks the affirmations to be too much, but the side where it's the music is very palatable.



5. I am new to Louise Hay starting with her You Can Heal Your Life Book. I read that gave it to my daughter to read. I saw this CD and bought it because of the subliminal side. I listen to it work and again when I go to sleep. My 10 year old son listens to it with me and now can't wait to go to sleep so he can play this CD. It's actually very sweet!!!!! I feel alot calmer now and my hair trigger temper has been calmed significantly. I can see a change in my son's behavior as well and I truly am thankful for that. I say buy it, and try it. I'm so glad I did.

5 comments about First Things First.

1. This is a great book to read for those of us who juggle life. It talks about how to prioritize and how to over come Urgency Addition. If there was one book to make the time to read, it should be this one.



2. This book is phenomenal. It encourages us to create a vision for where we want to eventually end up in life and gives us the necessary tools to get there. It is a very good reminder of what really matters. I highly recommend it!



3. Despite the fact that I plan my week using the Covey time management principles as a result of having taught this program for many years some time back, I recently re-read the book.
   
   What struck me was that the lessons are timeless. I doubt if anyone is going to come up with as powerful a matrix as Stephen's and the Merrills' to sum up how we spend time.
   
   Once you grasp the difference between managing your time and leading your life, you will never turn back.
   
   Many years ago, as a Covey apprentice, I used the annual planner to analyse how I had spent the entire past year. The result enabled me to change my life by highlighting where I needed to increase my leverage. Could I have come to the same conclusion through common sense and discipline? Perhaps. BUT - I hadn't! I came to these conclusions because the book presented strategies and tools to make it easy.
   
   The recent re-read has allowed me to connect again with the system.
   
   And of course, I have yet to come across another system that tackles motivation as robustly. Good intentions often fall by the wayside but with First Things First, you have tools to support and reinforce those good intentions.
   
   
   The greatest strength of the book for me, lies in the single lesson of Quadrant 4, that is, a section of your total time allocation devoted to IMPORTANT things - not emergencies - but things that can be planned and then YOU decide what's important to you and plan to do it. That way it gets done.



4. The book provides a great framework for being productive - focusing on the important over the urgent. It covers the dangers of spending too much time on things that others deem mandatory, sacrificing what is truly valuable.
   
   Two dissenting thoughts on the book. The first is the obvious - "If only it were so easy..." Of course if it were easy, there would be no need for the book. The second is that the key concepts could be delivered in a much shorter format. But that's a small complaint - how expensive is a $12 paperback? It pays for itself with even a small improvement in personal productivity.



5. I give this book five stars as it really helped me organise and prioritise my life.
   I develped a great mission statement, I review my roles weekly, and I am so happy with all the things I am achieving.
   I am also developing Integrity, really! Rather than just talking the talk I am walking the talk. I have had a few friends recently comment on my input into their lives.
   I now can schedule, my personal goals weekly, my family goals with my two young children, making my husband happy, doing commmunity work and looking out for my friends. Whilst I am still a work in progress, this book together with the 7 habits, have made a huge impact in my world.
   I have read SO many self help books, but in the end they just made me feel bad that I wasnt achieving all these things. But FTF, really makes you think about whats important to you, there is no use in following someone elses plan if those values dont resonate within your own world or heart.
   Go ahead and get this, read it and apply it. Slowly you will see how putting FTF can rock your little world.