5 comments about Mind Hacks: Tips & Tricks for Using Your Brain.

1. It's a book very interested about language in mind and speech comprehension. I read a short comment in BBC Focus magazine and I wish to read because it's very easy to learn the misteries of mind in cognitive science applied to language and psichology.



2. I was sorely disappointed in this book--I checked it out from the local library and hoped that it would actually live up to the subtitle of including tips and tools for using my brain. It didn't; the few "tips" included were those that are found in virtually every other discussion of how to improve memory.
   
   This book is more geared toward folks who are designing user interfaces--it talks about how the brain processes information (and thus describes ways to improve information conveyance).



3. This is a really great book. More novelty than improvement, but still great. If you're looking for something that will be useful as well as attention grabbing then look for the second edition; "Mind Performance Hacks"



4. Learning about the mind is okay, but I didn't learn anything that I hadn't seen in Psych 101, and a few interesting articles later on.
   
   Calling it a "hacks" book is false advertising, at best. Should it make it to another printing, I would hope O'Reilly would rename it.
   
   The information seemed accurate, so I'll give it that.



5. This book isn't about "hacking your brain" at all. What it really is is an overview of neuroscience, presented as 100 different topics which talk about how the brain works. Ever wonder how our brain figures out which direction sound comes from? Or how we pick out patterns in chaos? Or how we construct our vision of the world? Not only does it explain it in a very accessible fashion, but it gives hyperlinks to things online which have mp3s or jpegs which help demonstrate the point so that you can verify for yourself that it's how it works.

5 comments about Being In Balance: 9 Principles for Creating Habits to Match Your Desires.

1. I set this on the coffee table and pick it up periodically to read a chapter. It is short and to the point. Wish I had this a year ago.It helps me daily. Thanks you Dr. Dyer!



2. I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason! This book fell into my lap through an incredible offer from a television home shopping network - one which whom I never pay any mind to. However, after reading and loving "The Power of Intention", which was my first real exposure to Dr Dyer, the message that he would be featured on the show piqued my interest and got me to tune in.
   
   It doesn't end there though. I didn't dive in to the book immediately upon receipt - was I not ready for it yet? Hmmm...
   
   So a few weeks went by and in the meantime I happened to see the recently released movie "The Secret". One word to describe it, "WOW"! I was and continue to be blown away!
   
   So out of the 10 or so books that I had on deck to read, this book "Being in Balance" kind of jumped off my shelf at me - Why? I didn't know, but I pick it up and started reading it.
   
   One by one thoughts and concepts passed on by the author just seemed to resonate with me - Do you know that `popping' sound when something just clicks with you?
   
   This was the quintessential "right book at the right time" for me. It not only solidified some concepts that I just picked up from "The Secret" but it simplified and expanded my understanding of them.
   
   It became even more evident to me that Dr. Dyer is simply tuned in! I'm about to embark on another book by him called "Inspiration" and I'm just thrilled with anticipation!



3. After 20 years, it shouldn't be hard for him to come up with this stuff, but nonetheless, this little gem is got all the right principles, in an easy to read and delicious to feel little book. Almost a mini-reference manual. I recommend it.



4. Wayne Dyer again presents us with another piece of inspired writing that helps lift your soul from the shadows of darkness to the light of day. This book, Being in Balance is a tool needed for many to get their mind and attitude right. It empowers you to cleanse the negative and self-doubting thoughts that consistently prevent you from achieving your dreams and aspirations. In chapter six,"You can't discover light by analyzing the darkness", reinforces the dilemmas and barriers we place in front of us that prevent us from achieving prosperity, whether monetarily or spiritually.
   If you are lost and looking for direction this book is a great guide to bring your life back into balance.



5. Great book... Wayne Dyer just keeps the great works coming for us! Highly recommend

5 comments about The Thyroid Solution: A Revolutionary Mind-Body Program That Will Help You.

1. I was very disappointed in this book. Didn't feel that I learned anything that I didn't already know.



2. This book was very easy to read and understand. It had a wealth of information in it. I would recommend it to anyone who has any questions and wants answers about the thyroid gland. The book gives some great programs for you to follow.



3. After 11 years with hypothyroidism, this book finally answered all of my questions. If your lab tests say you're normal, but you don't feel normal, this book explains it ALL. Highly recommend!



4. What a book! I am a slow reader, but on Chapter 9. I have learned many things about thyroid that I did not know. Very good subject to read about. I highly recommend this book!!!!!



5. This is a really good book but I found it a little hard to read and I enjoy reading medical books. I do like that it's entirely about the mental aspect of thryoid disease unlike most other books that just explain all the symptoms in a basic way. This devles into so much about depression and anxiety and the changes relative to your thyroid hormones. I was shocked how much the two relate to each other and was happy to know I'm not crazy...it's my thyroid! :)

5 comments about Staying Sober: A Guide for Relapse Prevention.

1. This is an excellent foundation to understanding the complex causes of relapse and their early indentification. It gives good information on indentification of relapse warning signs and constructive ways to abort another sprial into relapse. This book is written to supplament your 12 step program and is most useful when coupled with a relapse prevention support group that is not AA. If you can find or found a relapse group this book will be invaluable and rated 5 stars. Only relapse prone alcholic's need read this.



2. This book offers easily understood explanations of addiction and the relapse process. The book was offered to me through an out-patient rehabilitation program and has been an invaluable tool on countless occasions since. The book offers examples that you can apply to your own experiences. By fully understanding the cycle of addiction can the addict most successfully break the cycle. I strongly recommend this book to anyone suffering from the disease of addiction, the sober family coping with a drug addicted member, or those offering education on the subject.



3. you were very easy for a computer novice (me) to order, pay, confirm, and deliver. thank you so much. look forward to more business with you. rosie



4. Excellent, ease to comprehend book on the prevention of relapse from addictions. Author is well known in the field and this is a must for clinicians library. However it is easy to read for anyone.



5. Great book for the newly abstinent. Describes the difference between not drinking and being sober. Provides a clear framework to identify signs of coming relapse and develop a plan to avoid it. I know this will be useful as I regain a fulfilling sober life.

5 comments about Lies at the Altar: The Truth About Great Marriages.

1. I heard about this book from a relative who had read it. I didn't think that I would like it so I checked it out at the library. After reading through it over several weeks, I had to buy a copy of my own. There are some very helpful tips in this book. I have recommended it to several friends.



2. This is easy to read basic review of what ingredients need to be in a good, commited relationship. This book will not save a cracked relationship and will not prevent divorce. It is not about "how to" (speak to each other), but about "what" (the content of the conversations should be). I highly recommend it also to the people facing divorce, seeking for affirmation what the content of a relationship should be, what they have missed or couldn't get with the current partner they are splitting with.
   
   The excercises consist of a series of questions or better topics the partners need to discuss. As some questions might not be applicable to discuss or answer or you might find it completely uninteresting, most of suggestions are very interesting and important. The questions are not put up front to discuss who is right and who is wrong, but to make couples learn how to make compromises on important issues and accept each other's different points of view.
   
   In the ubiquitous gloryfing of the marriage ritual, many people have forgotten that the person they are marrying is more important than the color scale of your grand event. Havin second thoughts before the wedding? Read this! It will not destroy the relationship, but it will help you evaluate it. This book helps to prevent ignoring the right gut feelings. It is your companion and on your side. You don't need to consult a relative that probably wants to see you nicely dressed at your wedding and will not listen to your worries properly as the wedding preparations heaten up.
   
   Unfortunately, dr. Smith's writing contains some religious elements at times, which is not surprising given the fact she teaches as an adjunct professor at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. This might be disturbing to some, but my advise is to ignore it. Ironically, she is quoting Sartre (an atheist) at one occasion to support a bit of spiritualistic point of view. Referrals to God are, however, not the foundation of the book and can be overlooked if you posess a bit of a tolerance (and if you don't, better not get married). I believe dr. Smith's experiences from her practice are very valuable and the book is worth buying.
   
   I benefited from dr. Smith's positive encouragement to independent thinking for women. There is this gentle feministic touch that may empower women to look behind the farirytale role of stuffing themselves in a white dress for one single day, smiling for cameras until it hurts and then suffering entire life due to emotional or physical abuse just becase divorce is unacceptable.
   
   Apparently, we all bring some lies in front of the altar and the book helps you find yours as well.
   
   If you have a close friend who is getting married in a few months, consider this as a gift way in advance! I had some fun discussing the topics with my close friend (and at times bitching about men and life in general, hahaha).



3. I just finished reading the book and feel it provided some good lessons and a generally good read. I think the book is best suited for people who are not yet married or those who have had relationship trouble in the past that they would like to move on from.
   
   The book was a little long-winded in some ways but provided great scenarios from (what I assume to be) her clients from marriage counseling. That was what I liked most about the book. Instead of talking about imaginary scenarios and results, it provided real situations she had seen couples go through during conflict. This helped me visualize the situations of conflict in my own engagement and I felt able to relate to some of the people she mentioned, whom are people going through the typical things to cause conflict... Money, beliefs, past wounds, whether or not to have children..
   
   She discusses the reasons many conflicts arise, and how many conflicts are much deeper than the surface. For example, she writes about a couple who are fighting over how much the wife pampers her 23 year old son whom is out of the house (doing his laundry, stocking his fridge), and how the anger the husband felt was evoked by having it hard when he moved out and not having the support of his parents (as well as being raised to believe that a person should be able to take care of him/herself after moving out). The author also explains how to turn cycles of blame and anger into understanding, through use of mostly the technique of mirroring; repeating back what the other partner said to be sure that anger doesn't twist the other partner's words to cause misunderstanding or resentment.
   
   Honesty and maturity is a huge theme of this book. Looking past the flowery words and lovely dress, and thinking deeper about a marriage's future. Creating vows that really speak what you intend, instead of vows that have hidden intentions. (For example, saying that you will always 'be by your side' when you intend to go off on your own for days. Or perhaps saying that you will always be there for your partner, but only when they're considerate.)
   
   The intended audience for this book is women. This must be understood. Men can also benefit from this book but it is mostly an empowering book for women. It encourages women in bad relationships to have the courage to make change or realize that they deserve to be happy. It encourages people in good marriages to embrace each other and their current state of being, to look deeper into the disagreements that may arise so they can understand the background it is created by.
   
   Made me think more about how I feel about life and what creates my beliefs.
   
   The 'questions before marriage' weren't a big thing for me, because we already know almost everything listed about each other already. We were comfortable enough with each other that we discussed children, finances, religion, sexuality, politics, how to raise a kid, etc before we even got engaged. But it would be very valuable for most couples who may overlook important questions, or cringe at the thought of discussing deeply about beliefs (it's well worth doing).
   
   A good book for couples who want a healthy mature relationship free of the cycles of stress and blame that so many couples go through. Offers valuable advice.



4. was sent promply and the book was in VERy , well brand new shape. thanks



5. Simple stated, factual and sprinkled with personal anecdotes, this offers a great way to hold up a mirror to your present relationship and see if you are a good fit, both personally and together, before a trip to the altar, especially if you have any doubts.

5 comments about Haley's Cleaning Hints.

1. Haley must have had a lot of time on his hands, but thank goodness for that. He's like the MacGyver of household cleaning. Who knew to save the baking soda for the drain. Works like a charm with a little vinegar. Also works great to mop up grease off the surface. No more blockages for me.
   
   Thanks Haley



2. I have used this book for years. Now I give it as a gift at every Bridal Shower I attend!



3. I like the fact that the book has lots of ways to clean but it lacks detail. It's as if the person knew what they wanted to say but couldn't get it down on paper. I don't think that the writer would have ever passed any of my college English classes.



4. Haley's Cleaning Hints is a must-have in your home. I have both of his books and refer to them often. It's a go-to book that you shouldn't be without. There are so many helpful hints on what to do when getting out a stain using just what you would commonly already have around the house, ie. baking soda, vinegar, etc.



5. MY 75 YR OLD SISTER HAS FINALLY LEARNED THAT BLEACH IS NOT ALWAYS THE BEST WAY TO GO!!!
   SHE IS LOVING THIS BOOK-

5 comments about Don't Bite the Hook: Finding Freedom from Anger, Resentment, and Other Destructive Emotions.

1. Pema Chodron explains the Buddhist philosophy in this as well as her many other CDs in a clear, relevant manner with just the right touch of humor relating to the human condition. She has mastered the philosophy, yet her modesty lets the listener know that she has been where we listeners often are. Easier to absorb than reading, for me, and a lot more fun. A great way to clear the mind at night when trying to get negative thoughts out of my head and helpful to prepare for sleep. I actually fall asleep with the headphones on and hope that perhaps my subconscious is learning her explanations of various instructions. Super for the novice or the more advanced student.



2. Good practical advice that allows you to get to know yourself. This CD helps you to practice spiritual principles in our daily lives. Loved it!



3. This recording is ok. I had not heard Pema speak before and she does have an engaging speakers voice. I was disappointed however as I did not realize this recording is mostly about interpreting verses from Shantideva's writings. I wanted more practical advice (from a buddhist perspective) on how to deal with anger. I don't believe this recording provided that. Would I buy it again knowing what I know now? No, there is not a lot of substance to it.



4. Do you find yourself caught in maybe a lifetime of negative reactions to certain events, people, or addictive behaviors in certain situations? Do you find it almost impossible to control yourself from reacting negatively to certain relatives, TV shows, or politicians? Have you ever bought something just because you felt like it was something you should buy, or it was "you," and then gotten it home and felt sick because you didn't need it or shouldn't have spent the money? Who hasn't? Pema Chodron's easy to understand discourse can help you get beyond these self-destructive behaviors in no time. The freedom and peace that lies outside of living in reaction is your reward for listening to this teaching. There is nothing here that will contradict any religious beliefs you may hold, but if more churches, for example, were teaching what she offers here in this simple and straightforward way, utterly without judgment, I think they would find their Sunday attendance would increase significantly. Pema Chodron is entirely sympathetic to the human condition, and rather than condemn it, she helps us clearly identify the behaviors that keep us from living in lovingkindness and joy. I recommend all her books and tapes highly, but if you can only get one to start with, start here.



5. After listening to me rage, blame, and lose myself in hatefulness for 5 years after a very painful breakup a dear friend loaned me her cds of Pema Chodron talks. I am SO grateful for my friend and for Pema! I'm not a Buddhist(with a capital B) but I found myself again while listening to her(Pema). I have since bought many books and cds and continue to learn more about loving kindness for myself and others (yes, even HIM).

5 comments about Choice Theory: A New Psychology of Personal Freedom.

1. This book is very interesting. It discusses a new way of thinking, that if used, could change the world. If you are interested in psychology, particularly reality therapy or choice theory, this is a must read.



2. It was hard to get into with the new terminology I was learning in the book but it does make sense. I would like to explore more of Dr. Glasser's books.



3. I have use this text to prepare to teach graduate level counseling internship courses. It is an easy read, but so full of useful information - don't let the ease of reading fool you! There is a lot of material to absorb, and the text presents the information in a helpful, clear manner that I can use with both my students and my clients.



4. I've tried reading this book several times, but always end up putting it down. The author strains the limits of my credulity when he states that so many health conditions from stomach aches to arthritis, are caused by the body's "creative systems" and that they are related directly to the breakdown of a personal relationship. Gimme a break, doc! This idea has been around for years, and has yet to be proven by science. This book is harmful!



5. this is a great book for those begining in the counseling field or those who like a serious framework to work with.

5 comments about The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living.

1. As a practitioner utilising the ACT model with her clients I have found this book to be exceptionally helpful, not only with addressing my own personal behaviours but also with strategies to employ with clients. Like others, I have several ACT texts but this is the one that I draw upon the most because of it's simplicity of explanations for the lay person. This is a book that anyone with general literacy levels can pick up and run with, and provided they follow the simple steps outlined in the book, can make changes quickly and effectively toward a more rich, fulfilling, and meaningful life. I recommend this book to all therapists and to anyone looking to step out of the "struggle" and into their lives.



2. Russ Harris distills complex concepts into easy language to help one thrive more in life. I found this book incredibly helpful for my life and very readable. I read it in one sitting. I have spent many years reading different books on psychology, philosophy and spirituality and this is one of the best. The more I truely live what he has written in this book, the happier and more engaged in life I am.



3. My jargon/headache-free gateway to the delights of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) was The Happiness Trap by Dr Russ Harris. Before reading The Happiness Trap, I knew of ACT as some framework to do with values and mindfulness but the language was all a bit foreign to me and I wasn't enticed to delve into it. I read The Happiness Trap in one sitting, disobeying all the suggestions to not rush, because I couldn't put it down. There are these irresistible little carrots dangling at the end of each chapter, snippets about what's coming next, making it compulsively readable. By the time I got to the end I had thoroughly defaced it, underlining all the good bits, all the bits that resonated with me and articulated the suspicions I had about traditional Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and an agenda of control. Reading it I laughed, I cried, I changed. I felt awakened and freed. And I was hungry to know more. It would be no exaggeration to say I could divide my life professionally and personally into Before The Happiness Trap and After The Happiness Trap. Moreover it prepared me for and eased me into the more technical writing about ACT and Relational Frame Theory (RFT) on which ACT is based. An extra special thing about The Happiness Trap is the use of a conversational and interactive writing style. It was as though I was engaging with a therapist through the pages of the book, a therapist who walked me with kindness and gentleness and empathy through the processes and techniques and having some fun along the way. The Happiness Trap is the recommended reading for clients at my psychology practice as I am confident that anyone who is literate can absorb its contents, `get' ACT first time around and be empowered to create their own ACT toolkit for living well.



4. It took me a long time to get through this book. I had it sitting on the shelf amongst several other self-help titles, and when I reached certain portions of the book I found myself bored or disinterested in taking the kind of actions suggested, so I moved to another title. I later realized that by doing so I was exercising my own 'control strategies' as Russ puts it, which really didn't do anything to help me live a rich and fulfilling life.
   
   Aware of this trend, I decided to read the book right to the end without worrying too much about doing the exercises. I just completed it the other day, and have now rid myself of most self-help books and products, dedicated rather to something that works - acceptance, mindfulness, and living according to my values. I had bought into the values of others, and with the help of Russ and others am now slowly moving towards my own values. At the same time, I have a set of tools to help me deal with the anxiety that is keeping me from living a fulfilling life.



5. This is one of the best books on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (and i've read quite a few). The book is written to be accessible to the non-professional and is intensly practical. It takes you on a journey that helps you to discover more about yourself and about the destructive control strategies taught by western society. It helps you to let go of what is unworkable and move boldly forward into a life of value. I recommend it without reservation.
   
   Dr. Joseph Ciarrochi, School of Psychology, University of Wollongong

5 comments about This Is Not the Life I Ordered: 50 Ways to Keep Your Head Above Water When Life Keeps Dragging You Down.

1. This book is excellent.....better than I anticipated. I only wish it had been written 20 years earlier.



2. This book is truly inspirational.... I discovered that I haven't put this book away after I read it. When I get overwhelmed, I pick it up and read random pages and there is always something there that helps put my life back in perspective. I have had this book for a year and I ordered it for my sister.



3. Although this was not quite the book I ordered, it does have some inspiring stories, perspectives, and quotes on doing that thing called life. The trick is trying not to get too distracted with the all of the quotes, cartoons, and name-dropping sprinkled within each of the fifty short narratives. With a take-what-fits-and-leave-the-rest-behind attitude, this book is worth the read.



4. Everybody has challenges at some time or another in life. What's hard is that a lot of people who seem so successful don't usually talk about the hard times and how to get through them. This is a book that does just that.
   
   It's a comforting blend of stories and ideas. It's a kind of "workshop-in-a-book". You could bring this book to some friends and start a support group. Or you could snuggle up in your favorite reading spot for some nurturing words by a team of women who have been through it and not only survived, but thrived. It's a book of comfort, and inspiration. It's "girlfriend time" on paper that goes to the heart and soul of the matter. The only critical thing I can say is that there were more quotes than I wanted...they interrupted the flow of the authors who say so much so well. (And this from someone who loves good quotes myself!) Reading this book is a great gift to give yourself or a friend to help you through challenging times.
   
   To Deborah, Jackie, Michealene, and Jan: Thank you! <3
   
   Laya Saul, author of the self-help book for teens "You Don't Have to Learn Everything the Hard Way"



5. One of the most remarkable things about THIS IS NOT THE LIFE I ORDERED is how it absolutely validates women who have noticed that it is just about impossible to achieve perfect balance in their lives. No matter how we may strive to "have it all", we discover time and time again that such a lofty goal seldom happens in real life... but all manner of unexpected problems occur instead. THIS IS NOT THE LIFE I ORDERED suggests how we can savor what we have when we have it, noting that most peoples lives go through passages of romantic, financial, career, and family happiness... and how we can find ways to navigate the times of tremendous challenge that can rock us to our very core. I especially love the way the four authors have truly experienced some of life"s biggest ups and downs, and how open and honest they are at sharing what it felt like to be shot and left for dead in a foreign land... or being the star of a highly popular TV show, which was abruptly cancelled. The advice these women share is truly food for the soul, as it comes across just as warmly as if it were being told to us across the kitchen table from one of our dearest friends. Indeed, one of the top tips this book provides is that rather than holing up alone in a cave when things get tough, women are most resilient when we make time and space for a group of other women friends in our lives who are also in transition. The notion that difficult times present us with opportunities is an old one, but it is presented in delicious clarity in this excellent guide to successfully navigating the unexpected eddies, currents, rapids and waterfalls in the river of life. I highly recommend this book to all women everywhere... as no matter how well we might plan how things are going to go, we can be fairly certain that some things will surprise us along the way, and we could use a little help from women who have made it through all the turbulence a little wiser by reinventing themselves along the way.