Reader Views

Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat: How to Break Your Eat-Repent-Repeat Cycle

When I finally shed the extra pounds that have hounded me for many years, everybody wanted to know which of the miracle diets I’ve used to achieve it and most got quite upset when I firmly told them “I do not believe in diets and that I did not use any.” What I achieved was a bit of trial and error, underscored with tenacity and an important health goal in mind, but I certainly did not have the knowledge to tell those curious people exactly how it worked for me. After having encountered “Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat” by Dr. Michelle May, I was quite surprised about the number of things that she highly recommends and also explains in no uncertain, quite scientific way, which were identical to many of my totally intuitive and/or trial and error findings. While I wish this book would have been available to me when I was struggling with my issues, I am simply grateful that it exists, and that I am now able to point any- and everybody in the right direction by recommending it.

Dr. May’s book is wise, witty and very empowering.  It teaches the reader how to conquer the obsession with food and start enjoying both the food and the life considerably more. Consider the titles of the four parts of the book: Think, Nourish, Live and Eat. Not only do they really sum up the key ingredients of a successful change, but they do it in the most logical way. First one needs to understand the “whys” and the “hows” of the situation one finds oneself in. Without understanding why, the same patterns will be repeated with the same end results, basically dooming you from the first step. Dr. May’s insights on being in charge and trusting yourself more are deceptively simple, yet brilliant.  The same sort of wisdom continues through the next three parts, with numerous examples, practical advice and uplifting thoughts. Even opening the book at random and reading one of the short “Mindful Moments” will set you on the right path.

With practical advice for everything from setting and maintaining goals to getting adequate exercise and challenging yourself to do better, this is a life-changing book.  Reading it will definitely change your life and make you realize that diets are not the way to permanent change, yet simple adjustments and better judgment may well be it. Add to this a bunch of utterly delicious menus, a healthy handful of humor and several pinches of common sense and you are pretty much guaranteed to succeed if you even vaguely adhere to the recipe outlined within the “Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat” by Dr. Michelle May.

Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat
Michelle May, M.D.
Greenleaf Book Group Press (2009)
ISBN 9781608320035
Reviewed by Olivera Baumgartner-Jackson for Reader Views (10/09)

5 Steps to the Hollywood A-List Smile: How the Stars Get That Perfect Smile and How you Can Too!

I’ve always said that the first thing that I notice about someone is their eyes.  This is true in most cases. Unfortunately, this does not hold true when someone has really bad teeth and/or has neglected their dental hygiene.  Dr. Catrise Austin has written this book to educate us on how to achieve a great smile. Being a celebrity dentist, she has some great references to back up her advice.

When I was in my mid-thirties and on my second set of braces, a wise eighty-three-year-old man told me, “You better take good care of your teeth otherwise it won’t be too long before you will be keeping them in a glass next to your bed.”  This was really good advice coming from someone who knows.  Flash forward seven years later and I am sitting here with two cracked teeth and a cracked filling because I got lazy about wearing my night guard.  My permanent crowns will be in next week…

When I got my hands on “5 Steps to the Hollywood A-List Smile” I was afraid that it might be too late for me.  Fortunately, this is not the case.  Actually, after reading the book, I would rate my teeth a B+.  Not too bad, but I want to be an A-Lister!  Reading through the five steps really gave me a better understanding of what I can do to help improve my appearance. Another benefit to taking care of my teeth is that it is better for my health.

I enjoyed learning about all of the options that are out there and the potential expenses involved.  Dr. Austin lists the pros and cons of each procedure.  It is also a relief to know that not everything is expensive, some of the advice offered is about how to properly brush and floss and what foods aren’t good for our teeth.  She presents information in a very positive, concise, and friendly manner. She also talks about what it felt like to have issues with her teeth when she was a teen. By the time you finish reading the book, you will feel like you have made a new friend.  I think that the best gift that you can give yourself today is “5 Steps to the Hollywood A-List Smile” by Dr. Catrise Austin.

5 Steps to the Hollywood A-List Smile
Dr. Catrise Austin
Morgan James Publishing (2009)
ISBN 9781600376443
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (10/09)

Angels in the Wilderness: The True Story of One Woman's Survival Against All Odds

I’ve never thought of myself as anything but a brave person. I don’t shy away from adversity, I welcome challenges and very little throws me off for any length of time. After having finished “Angels in the Wilderness,” a book on true courage, I have to admit I might have to rethink my assessment of my own bravery. Compared to Ms. Racina, I am a wimp.

Before I tell you what her book is about, I’d like to tell you what this book is not. It is not pretentious, not bragging, not self-aggrandizing and not preachy. What it is, in short, is an unbelievable story of a hiking trip gone haywire and a fantastic rescue and recuperation of an incredibly brave woman, who manages to find the best in even the most adverse situation and overcomes incredible odds to survive, heal and thrive again, while also discovering some more truths about herself and those around her.

On that fateful trip in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains Ms. Racina fell sixty-feet onto solid granite, in the process shattering both her legs and sustaining a variety of other smaller injuries. Having lost the trail shortly before that, and already hiking one of the less-traveled areas, the chances of her rescue were slim to none. In spite of the debilitating injuries she managed to drag herself a short distance from the site of her fall over the period of the next three days, a distance that has probably saved her life since three hikers were able to find her on the third day of her ordeal. She was rescued and airlifted out at the end of the fourth day, and treated by the capable and dedicated staff at the UMC in Fresno. Her friends rallied around her and against all odds Ms. Racina healed to the extent where she is perfectly capable of hiking again.

I absolutely loved “Angels in the Wilderness,” both for Ms. Racina’s compelling writing and her incredible courage. Her descriptions of nature and what hiking means to her were powerful and beautiful. Her ruminations on faith and tenacity, gifts we are all given, and ways we decide to accept them or not were thought-provoking, wise and definitely worth remembering. If you are struggling with a difficult situation and see no way out, you could do much worse than follow Ms. Racina’s 12 steps, the spiritual tools for physical survival, which are:

 1.  Look, listen and learn.
 2.  Create a world in which help is available to those who need it. 
3.  Know what you want the outcome to be.
 4.  Never give up.
 5.  Acknowledge the interplay between attachment and surrender.
 6.  Allow for the unexpected.
 7.  Narrow your focus.
 8.  Look for the good.
 9.  Make a plan.
10. Do everything you can.
11. Count.
12.  Pray.

If some of those steps sound unclear to you, pick up Amy Racina’s “Angels in the Wilderness.” You will be glad you decided to do that.

Angels in the Wilderness: The True Story of One Woman's Survival Against All Odds
Amy Racina
Elite Books (2009)
ISBN 9781600700668
Reviewed by Olivera Baumgartner-Jackson for Reader Views (9/09)

Audacious Aging: Eldership As a Revolutionary Endeavor

As we age we need encouragement from others; the knowing that transformation is natural and we can choose to wallow in some of the changes, or embrace them openly and enjoy the years of wisdom, clarity and empowerment.  A group of well-known healers and inspirationalists have given us just that.  The compilation of narratives with experiences and how their work contributes to “audacious aging” comes from forty forerunners such as Joan Borysenko, Deepak Chopra, Ram Dass, Larry Dossey, Gloria Steinem and Andrew Weil. Each narrative is powerful, encouraging, and most of all contemplative as well paralleling to our own lives.

Hendrieka Fitzpatrick’s “Move Over, Barbie and Ken” caught my eye immediately and I began to read “To be audacious is to be empowered and independent, spirited and energetic, original and bold.  Sadly, not many people think of these characteristics when they think aging. If you ask teenagers about aging, they will use words like shriveling, limping, confused, wrinkly, and feeble. They are just voicing the view of aging that most of us in this society hold.”  Fitzpatrick is so correct.  How many times have we, as we age, complained of the aches and pains, or look at others and see ourselves just like them - wrinkled and confused?  Further in the anthology Fitzpatrick explains to us that there is a “misconception that supports the idea of aging is that once humans reach middle age, development stands still.”  Proving this isn’t true, Fitzpatrick and the rest of the contributors tell us differently; life as we know it doesn’t come to a standstill until we transition.  The contributors also encourage us to step away from the conceptions and perceptions of aging, and embrace ourselves with faith, confidence, and clarity.  As well, the overall theme is to tap into our inner knowledge and accept our wisdom, knowing that we are in our prime of life and to enjoy every minute of it.

Personally, I was encouraged by the narratives and many confirmed what I already knew.  Audacious means “to dare” and that is exactly what “Audacious Aging” by Stephanie Marohn is encouraging us to do.  Dare to step out of the box created by society and cultures, and live the audacious life we were meant to have.  There is no such thing as aging; we are just getting wiser each day.

Audacious Aging: Eldership As a Revolutionary Endeavor
Edited by Stephanie Marohn
Elite Books (2009)
ISBN 9781600700613
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (9/09)

Gentling: A Practical Guide to Treating PTSD in Abused Children

"Gentling" is described by the author as "… the process of delivering the balm of gentle gestures." This includes using both compassion and empathy in dealing with young children who are victims of severe abuse. In "Gentling," the author discusses his personal experiences in working with young children who have stress disorders. In doing so, he also thoroughly covers the differences in the behaviors of children who are acting out because of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD,) versus normal children who are just misbehaving. It is also noted that a child who is being raised in a home that is highly dysfunctional, can also experience stress disorders, even if an acute incident has not occurred.

Because young children’s brains are still developing they tend to be more acutely affected by abuse and stressful environments. Based upon his experience, Krill has found that adult PTSD treatments cannot be successfully adapted to meet the needs of young children who are dealing with stress disorders. One reason why these treatments do not work on young children is because they are not yet able to express themselves like adults can. They also have not developed the same internal resources to draw upon that an adult can create.

Included in this book is an extensive appendices which provides vital information that includes a Child Stress Profile, Handouts for Caregivers, and Quick Teach Sheets. There are also interesting case studies which demonstrate how the gentling process was applied to real situations. Unfortunately, because many abused children end up being moved around in the foster care system, their treatments are interrupted. If more professionals became familiar with Gentling, then there would be more people to pick up where others left off.

Krill believes that victims of child abuse have their own version of PTSD. If this child does not receive appropriate treatment, the behaviors can become worse, more embedded and harder to treat. Therefore, I believe that it is essential that people who are involved with these children especially clinicians, parents, foster parents and teachers read "Gentling." By doing so it will help them to recognize the behaviors and deal with the child more effectively.

Gentling: A Practical Guide to Treating PTSD in Abused Children
William E. Krill, Jr., LPC
Loving Healing Press (2009)
ISBN 9781615990030
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (8/09)

Recovering the Self: A Journal of Hope and Healing (Vol. I, No.1)

I believe that the first edition of "Recovering the Self: A Journal of Hope and Healing," will be truly transformational for its readers. The journal consists of a variety of articles that address issues involving recovering from trauma, grief, forgiveness, health issues, and substance abuse. In addition to the essays, there are also a poetry, fiction, and reviews sections.

I truly enjoyed reading all of the articles. I found information that would benefit me both as a counselor and as a human being. Several of the articles were written by inspirational authors whose books have already had an impact on my life. I really enjoyed being able to read more of their thoughts. Something that I found that stood out in this journal is the human element that is incorporated into each essay. In addition to imparting their knowledge to us, the writers also share their personal experiences with the topic at hand. This made what I read so much more meaningful to me.

I highly recommend a subscription to this journal, "Recovering the Self," for professionals who are in the counseling profession or who deal with crisis situations. Readers involved with the healing process will also really enjoy this journal and feel inspired to continue on. The topics covered in the first journal alone, will motivate you to continue reading books on the subject matter presented. Guaranteed.

Recovering the Self: A Journal of Hope and Healing (Vol. I, No.1)
Ernest Dempsey with Victor Volkman
Loving Healing Press (2009)
ISBN 9781932690095
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (7/09)

Heal Your Mind, Rewire Your Brain: Applying the Exciting New Science of Brain Synchrony for Creativity, Peace and Presence

In “Heal Your Mind, Rewire Your Brain,” the author utilizes her education and research about the brain, and her own personal experiences with meditation to share her knowledge with us. In addition to discussing the scientific perspectives involving brain-mind functioning, she also adds her own personal reflections about her extensive experiences with meditation. She tells us, “The more you change your mind, the more you change your brain. The more your brain changes, the more your mind evolves.” The brain can evolve and adapt. This has already been proven in the history of our own evolution.
The author notes that we are in a time where we are experiencing extreme stress. This stress can cause a negative impact on our quality of life and our health. While we are going through these tough times, it is very important that we learn how to train our minds so that we can release ourselves from stress to become more creative, happy and at peace. Training our mind to overcome our fears will play a huge role in this process. “When all brain waves are in synchronicity, your attitude is constantly positive.”
The book is divided into two sections. Part I discusses “The Brain’s Story.” Part II covers “Meditation as Mind Technology.” At the end of the book is an extensive bibliography. I was also really excited to see a list of CDs or MP3 downloads that are available to help with the meditations.
I don’t really know how to meditate. I have tried it on my own and here and there at functions. The best way for me to relax myself has always been to exhaust myself physically. Well I am pretty tired. It was really exciting for me to read “Heal Your Mind, Rewire Your Brain,” because everything that I need to know on how to meditate is explained to me and I also have a better understanding of how my brain works. This includes both the rhythms and the chemicals of the brain. I really think that the CDs can assist me in this process. By reading this book, Patt Lind-Kyle has really stimulated my interest in the mind-brain connection, and how I can use it to relax my thoughts. I highly recommend reading “Heal Your Mind, Rewire Your Brain!”

Heal Your Mind, Rewire Your Brain
Patt Lind-Kyle
Energy Psychology Press (2009)
ISBN 9781604150568
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (7/09)

Let’s Eat Out with Celiac/Coeliac and Food Allergies! A Timeless Reference for Special Diets

With the increase of food allergies or sensitivities in our society it becomes difficult for many to eat out in restaurants. During recent testing my husband was diagnosed with 49 food allergies consequently making it very difficult to eat out anywhere or at any time. Reading labels in a grocery store is easy, but there are no labels on food prepared in restaurants. Kim Koeller and Robert La France have solved the problem for many in the same situation with their new book "Let’s Eat Out with Celiac/Coeliac and Food Allergies! A Timeless Reference for Special Diets."

This book was inspired because co-author Kim Koeller was diagnosed with celiac/coeliac disease as well as allergies to many foods. A world traveler for over 25 years as a business consultant she was continually challenged while eating in restaurants. Kim discusses her challenges while Robert addresses what he calls the other "side of the table." Their story is encouraging and insightful; both were able to overcome the diversity and step up to help others in the same situation.

The authors explain that pre-planning is essential and communicating with the restaurant staff is crucial. They give tips on how to approach them, how to ensure the meal delivered is to your specifications, and how to guarantee a pleasing eating experience. They also provide ingredient and preparation guidelines, including charts that show what specific ingredients are used, together with the hidden and most allergen.

However, there is more. The "more" includes overviews, sample menus, considerations, and checklists for American, Chinese, French, Indian, Italian, Mexican, and Thai cuisine. They also include suggestions for snacks, breakfasts, and beverages.

"Let’s Eat Out with Celiac/Coeliac and Food Allergies! A Timeless Reference for Special Diets" by Kim Koeller and Robert La France is the most valuable guide anyone with special diet needs must have. It will not only prepare you with understanding, but also assist you in moving past your allergies and sensitivities and accept that fact that you can eat out in restaurants. This book is also a tremendous resource for anyone in the food industry and should be used as part of the curriculum in all cooking schools.

Let’s Eat Out with Celiac/Coeliac and Food Allergies!
Kim Koeller and Robert La France
R & R Publishing (2009)
ISBN 9780976484554
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (4/09)

EFT for Procrastination

As a former EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) practitioner I was elated to see Gloria Arenson’s new approach for dealing with procrastination. In some cases we know procrastination is good and sometimes saves us time and useless effort; however, in most cases it is a compulsion and a cover up for fear. Arenson explains "The real question is not ‘Why am I putting this off?’ It is ‘Why do I need to keep myself from going ahead with this?’" She further claims negative self-talk is what you don’t want to face.

Arenson also informs us that procrastinators have high expectations of themselves which results in perfectionism. Perfectionists have a hard time making decisions, thus becoming procrastinators. Seems like a vicious circle.

Checking on the internet I found that some researchers indicate 95% of the people are procrastinators and 20% are chronic procrastinators. Procrastination could be an epidemic.

"EFT for Procrastination" is a book filled with revolutionary techniques to recognize the procrastination within oneself, address the issue, and resolve it through a six-step program. The simple program delves into the subconscious and changes the patterns; it is painless, easy to do, and has phenomenal results. According to Arenson, using EFT for 2 minutes per day will prevent you procrastinating. How simple is that! In addition, the author provides real-life cases that we can easily relate to.

Concise and written in lay-terms, "EFT for Procrastination" by Gloria Arenson is a necessary tool for anyone that is not able to get things done in a timely fashion. In itself EFT is a valuable tool for any changes one wants to make in their lives, and using EFT for procrastination is doubly important. This compulsive behavior is ready to be stopped.

EFT for Procrastination
Gloria Arenson, MFT
Energy Psychology Press (2009)
ISBN 9781604150421
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (6/09)

Addiction: What's Really Going On? Inside a Heroin Treatment Program

In "Addiction: What is Really Going On?," substance abuse counselor Deborah McCloskey takes us inside a southern California treatment program for heroin addicts. By reading her story, which was fascinating, we learn about the ins and outs of methadone treatment. We also learn about the counselors and addicts. Each person has their own story. If the addicts don’t deal with their issues, their chances of staying clean are nil. If the substance abuse counselors don’t deal with their own personal issues as well, then they have a harder time being effective counselors. It was sad to learn that many of them, who are in recovery themselves, also relapse.

Through her experiences and compassion, Ms. McCloskey learned how to work with addicts. Even though she didn’t always find success with them, she was able to gain their respect and learn how they might try to trick her. I learned a lot from her counseling style. Even though she didn’t let her clients get away with anything, she still was able to gain their respect. Dealing effectively with some of her co-workers and a supervisor also took some skill on her part.

As a graduate of a Master of Science program in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling, part of which involved training in Substance Abuse Counseling, I truly wished that I had had a book like this when I was learning about addictions. I think that every student in the program would have benefited. By reading about the clients, their games, their addiction, and what worked, my classmates and I would have benefited hugely. This in turn would have helped the people with whom we were doing our practicum hours.

Heroin addiction is an insidious problem in our society. Ms. McCloskey was successful in finding some alternative ways of dealing with treatment. She didn’t like how the system functioned because it definitely was not working for everyone, and so she made some changes on her own caseload to find out how she could achieve success. I really think that "Addiction: What's Really Going On? Inside a Heroin Treatment Program" should be read by all people who are involved in some form of substance abuse, whether they are counselors, addicts, or family members of addicts. Sadly because of her passing, Ms. McCloskey will no longer be able to directly help others in this field; however, by assisting with telling her story, Barbara Sinor, PhD, has stepped in as a co-author on this book and in doing so, allows her work to carry on.

Addiction: What's Really Going On?
Deborah McCloskey, CADC & Barbara Sinor, PhD
Loving Healing Press (2009)
ISBN 9781932690934
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (5/09)