A Life You Love — Margaux Joy DeNador

Book Review: The Beauty Blueprint by Michelle Phillips

 

After hearing the audio recording of Michelle Phillips’ talk at the Tampa, Florida, “I Can Do It!” conference, I was curious to read her book. The title, "The Beauty Blueprint – 8 Steps to Building the Life and Look of Your Dreams” intrigued me. But when I saw her book's cover with its beautiful colors and artistic use of photography and fonts, I knew I just had to read it!

In the book, Michelle combines what she has learned as a makeup artist and beauty and life coach to help people create a "Beauty Blueprint" that expresses who they are inside. Michelle helps her clients, and the people who read her book, remember what matters most to them. She helps her readers understand the essence of their values in order to express themselves with the colors, clothes, hairstyles, hair color, makeup, and the accessories they choose.

One of my favorite chapters in the book is titled "Dream a Beautiful Future." It starts with a quote by Carl Jung that says, "The dream is the small hidden door in the deepest and most intimate sanctum of the soul." In this chapter, Michelle explains that she has found that many people have a hard time letting themselves dream freely. Perhaps this is because so many of us have been told what limitations we have or how hard it would be to do what we dreamed of doing, being, having, giving, and living. Some of these beliefs we pick up while we are young but as an adult there are plenty of people who are willing to tell us why we can't do something or that something can't be done.

Michelle has a wonderful exercise in this chapter called "Wave Your Magic Wand." This exercise involves using your imagination and waving a magic wand allowing you to imagine your options as unlimited. Michelle teaches us that if it's totally possible, it's not really a dream. It's just something practical for you to do or achieve.  As Michelle says, "It gives your heart permission to come out and play and whispers to us what is hidden deep inside." I loved how this exercise made me feel. It inspired me to dream with no boundaries or limits. It was fun and enlightening. 

Michelle gives an example of the "Beautiful Future" she wrote about in her journal. Her honesty about where she was when she began to allow herself to dream – and how her written dreams began to come true – inspired me.

Looking at someone like Michelle Phillips, it's easy to think her life has always been perfect, that she always had known what she most wanted, who she was inside, and that she had always just been "lucky."  But her honesty about her mistakes and challenges along with stories she shares about how she became who she is today are inspiring and encourage those reading her book to let themselves remember what matters most to them, and how they most want to live their lives.

I am including, here, an audio recording of my April 10, 2012, interview with Michelle Phillips so you can hear her passion. To listen, just click on the gray bar. If you need to pause it, just click the blue bar and click again when you want to re-start it. The interview was inspiring and fun. It's around 12 minutes in length, so listen when you have time.

Michelle Phillips Interview MJOY DeNador 041012   

 

 
   You can visit Michelle Phillips' website at: www.michellephillips.com

Another favorite chapter of mine is titled, "Look in the Mirror." It begins with a quote that says, "The best mirror is an old friend." Because Michelle is a makeup artist, it would seem the chapter is about looking in a mirror at yourself. But "Look in the Mirror" is actually about the "mirror" of the people in your life.

Michelle says, "Through my work, I've learned that the people around you act as mirrors, reflecting your inner beliefs and emotions. Who have you placed around you, and what are they revealing about your state of mind?"

The people we choose to spend time with have a huge effect on how we feel. The exercise in this chapter, "Check Your Mirrors", is a great reminder to pay attention to who is in your “Circle of Influence”. I totally agree that it is important to surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you.

Years ago I studied fashion color analysis because I love color. But the way they taught us to choose colors for people was ALL based on what they looked like on the outside. Because I am a blonde, I was told that I was never to wear black and that I "should" wear navy blue, light blues, and pinks. But I hate wearing those colors! The colors they chose for me made me feel sick and as if I was wearing someone else's clothes. I wasted money on those clothes and since then have always chosen colors by how I feel when I wear them.

Michelle's book "The Beauty Blueprint" is about aligning your appearance with who you are inside. As Michelle says, clothing and makeup colors must express who we are inside. They must feel right to us for us to feel beautiful and to enjoy wearing them.

Just before the end of the book, Michelle has included the following: "How to Buy Designer Clothes for Much Less," How to Apply Your Makeup Like a Pro," and also answers "Frequently Asked Fashion Questions."

Reading this book reminded me of things I've learned over the years about what it takes to look and feel my best. It also got me to have fun dreaming during the "wave your magic wand" exercise.

Michelle writes in an authentic, likable, sometimes funny, and unique voice – her voice. You'll be able to hear the passion and enthusiasm in her voice if you listen to the recording I've included above.

Am I glad I read this book? YES!! If you would like to build the life and look of your dreams, you'll want to buy this book.

To purchase "The Beauty Blueprint" by Michelle Phillips, click on one of the following links:

Review: Shift Happens! How to Live an Inspired Life… Starting Right Now! – Robert Holden, Ph.D.

 

 

My curiosity about "Shift Happens!" started while listening to Robert Holden's keynote speech at the 2011 Pasadena "I CAN DO IT!" conference.

My friend, Linda, bought his CDs for "Shift Happens!" We enjoyed listening to some of Robert's stories on our way home from the conference. What we found is that listening to Robert Holden reading "Shift Happens!" with a friend is fun. We liked being able to stop the CD and talk about what he said and what his stories caused us to remember from our own life experiences. CDs rock!

Because we only heard two of the CDs on our way back, I was curious to hear the rest of them. I also became curious to read the book. Because of my curiosity I asked Hay House if I could review both the book and the CDs. I am happy that they sent me both to review!

What I love about listening to the CDs of "Shift Happens!" is the combination of Robert Holden's gentle-sounding English voice and his creative way of making his points with plays on words and inspiring stories.

The text on the back of the book says: Shift Happens! is a book about "more" – more happiness, more success, more love, more peace, more prosperity, and more being the real you.

In this book Robert Holden shares ways to let go of fears, struggle, and trying to do it all by yourself. He also discusses other blocks to happiness. The book is powerful, creative, and can help transform the way you think about yourself and your life.

I like Robert Holden's sense of humor and his creative use of words.

I like his voice – he has a gentle sounding English voice. I found it enjoyable to listen to him tell his stories while driving my car.

I like both the book and the CDs.  

I like the CDs because I can listen to the stories while I am doing errands or driving to or from work. I also like hearing the way Robert Holden adds his feelings to the book by reading it. I've always loved to hear my favorite authors read their books. Listening to them speaking on the CDs makes it easy to re-listen during times when I want some entertainment. I like listening in my car and also while I walk or spend time on our elliptical machine exercising.

The book gave me a chance to read what I had heard in the car and allowed me to highlight key points that I most want to remember. I also like seeing the words written and to be able to read a sentence or paragraph over if I want to really get what he is saying.

Robert Holden says that he has the following, which is in the book, on his computer as a screensaver reminder to always put love first. I like it and want to remember to do it myself so I want to share it here with you.

FIRST LOVE

First love, then think.
First love, then speak.
First love, then look.
First love, then act.
First love, then choose.
First love, then give.
First love, then live.

There is a prayer that one of Robert Holden's clients wrote about saying "YES" to life. The full prayer can be found on page 180 of his book.

I say "YES" to love today.
I say "YES" to happiness today.
I say "YES" to balance today.
I say "YES" to me today.
I say "YES" to miracles today.
I say "YES" to life today.

One of the things I like about the CDs is that they have numbered each of the "chapters" to help you know where you are in the book. I wish there were "chapter numbers" in the book as well.

Following are a few of my favorite chapter titles in "Shift Happens!"

Happiness is an inner light with no off switch
There are no events, only perceptions
Keep smiling – unless you feel like crying
Be the goal!
Give up your fear of giving
Stop improving your life – and start living!
Fear is yesterday
The world has finished with your past… if you have
Forgiveness gives you wings
Commit to living "happily even after"
Shift happens – when you let go
When you take a step, a bridge appears
Exhaustion means there is a better way
If you are alive, you need help!
Some of the best gifts come badly wrapped
Stay open all hours for miracles
Your happiness is a gift

On the CDs and in the small book of 275 pages there are 55 chapters. The titles above remind me of the stories in each of the chapters. After having read the book and listened to the CDs, the titles are now reminders of the lessons and help me remember them.

The following is from the back cover of the book.

"Shift Happens! is about staying open all hours for miracles. Success, love, and happiness are only ever one thought away at most. One new perception, one fresh thought, one act of surrender, one change of heart, one leap of faith, can change your life forever."

The book is fresh, fun, and inspiring. It's a book I plan to keep handy to read again. I love the idea of reading one of the short essays each day. I am glad to have the CDs to hear while driving as well.

In conclusion, I am glad to have both the book and the CDs of "Shift Happens!" because it is great to listen to the CDs in the car and the book can be read one chapter per day to really savor the messages and put them into practice.

I highly recommend both the book and the CDs of "Shift Happens! How to Live an Inspired Life… Starting Right Now!" 

Review by Margaux Joy DeNador – November 23, 2011  

Following are four ways to order:

Book Review: Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson "You Can Create an Exceptional Life"

     

As soon as I heard that Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson were writing a book together, I knew I wanted to review it.

Both of these exceptional women have been my mentors and what I call treasured teachers in my life. They inspire me, encourage me, and remind me to pay attention to my thoughts, my words, and my choices. Each of them, in their own ways, has made a huge contribution to who I am today.

When this book showed up in the mail, on a Friday night, I did a "Happy Dance" and said, "Wahoo!!!" and then I sat down to start reading. I finished half the book the first night, and I finished the second half the next day. Now, I've read it twice all the way through. I enjoyed it both times.

Reading it was especially fun because I felt like I was there with Louise and Cheryl for each of their conversations and that was a joyful feeling. The conversations take place in cities including San Diego, Tampa, Orlando, and New York here in the USA, as well as in Toronto, Vancouver, and London. Some of the conversations even take place with Skype while they are both in their pajamas with no makeup!

I wanted to be part of the conversation. The way it's written I felt like I was there with them.

Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson have made a huge difference in the lives of people all over our planet – and I am one of them.

         YOU CAN CREATE AN EXCEPTIONAL LIFE
Cheryl Richardson and Louise Hay's new book - and me!
     An inspiring book by two exceptional women!!!

 I first discovered Cheryl in 1999 when I heard her talking about her first book, "Take Time for Your Life." Louise Hay came into my life in a BIG way in 2005 with her book "You Can Heal Your Life" and her "I Can Do It!" conference which I attended because of my Mom's health.

Cheryl said her first thought when considering Reid Tracy's suggestion for her to write a book with Louise Hay was, "That would be a unique opportunity to learn from a woman who has had such a vast impact on my life as well as the lives of millions of others."

The book consists of a series of heart-to-heart conversations about spiritual principles that have shaped their lives.

The book is from Cheryl's point of view, but it highlights the comments made by Louise during each of the conversations. I liked that Cheryl also told us what she was thinking, feeling, and gave examples of how the conversations with Louise Hay were changing how she looked at life and how she talked to herself about life.

Some of the stories were familiar to me from reading Louise and Cheryl's previous books, but there was so much more depth that now I know both of them in ways I never had before.

I love the titles of the chapters:
1. Answer the Phone and Open the Mail
2. Becoming the Creator of an Exceptional Life
3. How You Start Your Day is How You Live Your Day
4. How You Live Your Day is How You Live Your Life
5. Don't Break a Habit – Dissolve it!
6. The Beauty of Wisdom
7. The End of the Movie
 
Themes:
Simplicity – small, simple steps…
Optimism – attention and energy on solutions…
Patience – experiencing the journey…
Trust – opportunities for growth…
Growth – life as a classroom…
Service – encourage and assist…
Action – "show up" and walk through doors…
Faith – keep moving forward…
Magnetism – the ability to attract…

Louise says her question has always been: "How can I help people?"
 
Louise believes, "We are powerful, creative beings who determine our future with every thought we think and every word we speak."

Cheryl's thoughts about what Louise said above: "As I consider Louise's remark, I realize, at its core, this message is one of the most important: In our purest, most positive state of mind, we are powerful creators of our very best lives. When we think good thoughts, we feel good. When we feel good, we make good choices. When we feel good and make good choices, we draw more good experiences into our lives. It really is that simple… and elegant … and true."

 

Our sweet cat, Bender, with "You Can Create an Exceptional Life"

 

What do I love about Louise and Cheryl's new book? The size and the length. It left me wanting more, and yet feeling as if it was perfect just the length it is – to savor the first reading and to read it again and again over time for the reminders and enjoyment.

Why do I recommend it? I found it inspiring, and it was fun to read. I felt as if I was there with Louise and Cheryl in the various cities and countries. Cheryl did a great job of describing where they were and what it felt and looked like to her. I especially enjoyed her description of what it was like to be in Louise's home. She made me feel as if I was there with them. What fun!

I recommend it because whether you know Louise and Cheryl or not it is inspiring. For those who do know their work – and who love them – it is a wonderful feeling to be part of their conversations about love and how to love yourself and your life. I loved hearing their thoughts on how to get the most enjoyment possible from each day.

What would I suggest to make it better? To record it as CDs so we can hear Louise and Cheryl having the conversations!! I love both of their voices and would love to hear them reading it.
  
There are wonderful affirmations throughout the book and in lists at the end as well. One of my favorites, now, is: "Life loves me." I've started to say, "Life loves me. I love life, and I love me!" (over and over) when I am on my way to sleep, as I get up, and when I feel I need some love during the day.  

Cheryl asked Louise how she looks and feels so good at (almost) 85. Louise's answers were as follows:

"Well it comes down to loving yourself, loving your body, and making peace with the aging process. When you love yourself, you care about your body, and you care about what you put into it. You also care about the thoughts you choose to think."

"I have cultivated a mental outlook that allows me to see life from the most positive advantage. This positive, loving, grateful, joyous outlook attracts to me the greatest life – and that's why this is the best decade so far."

What a book!!!

What exceptional women!!!

I am thankful to have them both as mentors, teachers, role models, and I am happy that I'll be seeing them both October 14-16, 2011 in Pasadena at the "I Can Do It!" conference (check it out).

Here are four ways to buy this exceptional and inspiring book:

Book Review: am I being kind … how asking one simple question can change your life … and your world – by Michael J. Chase

 

 

I decided to review this book because I had seen other people's comments about Michael Chase's talk at the Hay House "Movers & Shakers" in Boston on facebook. I became extremely curious to know more about him, his Kindness Center, and his book "am I being kind" which Hay House published because of his talk at the event.

Whether you've been to a "Movers & Shakers" event, are considering going to one, or have no idea what it is – I am convinced that you'll find his story inspiring.

The book, am I being kind, arrived at my home on Friday, May 20, 2011 – which would have been my Mom's 80th Birthday. Because she was a great example of kindness and unconditional love, it felt perfect to have the book come that day. In fact in some ways it feels like it was a gift from my Mom!

When I asked Michael why the title is written with all lowercase letters all except for the "I" — and why there is no question mark — he told me, "The answer is in the book."  His answer made me even more curious to read the book. And yes the answer is in the book.

As Michael says in the book, while many people believe it's too late or impossible to alter their path and make a different decision it's not true. The stories Michael tells in the book are very convincing and remind us all that it's never too late to change!

Michael suggests reading the book slowly to get the most benefit from it. I enjoyed it so much I read it in one weekend. Taking notes for writing this review gave me a chance to re-visit the stories and helped me remember main points he makes in the book.

The first two chapters tell stories about what Michael calls the "art of unkindness" and they help us see the contrast that caused him to have a burning desire to live a life of kindness. The fact that he grew up with a father who was unkind and a grandfather who was even more unkind shows us we can each decide to make the choice to be kind and to live a life of kindness.

 

        Michael J. Chase

One of the stories I loved is about how a turtle crossing the road changed how he felt about kindness and inspired him to live a life of kindness. It was just four months after the turtle epiphany that Michael decided to open The Kindness Center.

Michael Chase's book is a delight to read because of his sense of humor. The title of chapter three is "From Toll House to Hay House." In it he tells the story of how he went from being paid with Toll House cookies to being an author for Hay House.

I greatly enjoyed the chapter titled "Moving & Shaking in Boston." It was interesting to read the day-by-day descriptions of what it was like to be there and how he was feeling from Friday, April 23, 2010, through Sunday, April 25, 2010. I had attended the Movers and Shakers event in San Francisco the month before so I found it interesting to contrast how I was feeling with how he felt while there.

Michael was chosen as one of four people at the "Movers & Shakers" event who got to give a seven minute talk. The days right after the event he got emails from Cheryl Richardson and Reid Tracy. On Wayne Dyer's 70th Birthday, May 10, 2010, Michael received a contract from Hay House to publish his book!

Parts II & III of the book reveal how Michael shifted from a life of misery to now living a life of kindness and inspiration.

In the book Michael will ask you to make choices that can change your world, your relationships, and how you feel about yourself.

You'll want to read the book to find out how one simple question can change your life and also change the lives of those around you. One of the ways you can do this is by creating a daily "To-Be List" before you create your "To-Do List" for the day.

What would I change about the book? The cover could be more colorful and have a graphic or photo but the contents of this book certainly make it worth buying.

Why do I recommend this book? Michael's stories are inspiring and told with a sense of humor. He comes across as authentic, likable and unique. Combining humor with this topic really helps make a lasting impression.

Does being kind help you feel happy? Does being kind help others feel happy? After reading this book, I am convinced the answer is YES for both questions. It is my belief that anyone who reads this book will be inspired to do what they can to help make the world a kinder and happier place. 

Here are links for two ways to buy this book:
Hay House
Amazon

To find out more about upcoming "Speak, Write & Promote… Become a Mover & Shaker" events, and to buy tickets, click on the following link:

Book Review: The Power of Your Spirit: A Guide to Joyful Living — by Sonia Choquette

 

 


Sonia Choquette has been one of my favorite authors for many years. I've always enjoyed her books and the title of this one, The Power of Your Spirit, got me curious especially when combined with the subtitle, "A Guide to Joyful Living."

When the book arrived for me to review, I wondered if Sonia could have done it again? Would I enjoy reading her new book since I've read several books by her? The answers to these questions were "Yes!" and "Yes!"

Sonia is a great storyteller and she weaves in stories that teach us from the examples of what lessons she or the people in the story learn from what has happened in their lives.

She had me curious from the first two paragraphs of the introduction. In them she describes a movie (that I've seen) which is about a tour guide in Greece who has lost her kefi, which is a Greek word for "spirit."

Sonia says, "The film reminded me that the idea of losing your connection to spirit isn't all that unusual." She goes on to say that she encounters many lovely, generous, and caring people who feel lost, disillusioned, and powerless.

In this book, she guides readers through four stages she says we must pass through on the way to reconnecting with our own spirit.

The four stages are:
Awakening
Discovery
Surrender
Flow

For most of us the journey is gradual but she says it's also possible, though rare, to move through all four stages in one dramatic shift.

In "How to Use this Book" Sonia says, "Take time and enjoy the process. Ponder the questions and stories throughout." She also says to be sure to implement the daily practices for at least 40 days.

One thing she repeats through the book is that you must change what you do and not just read books expecting your life to change. She gives an example of a woman who kept reading more books but wasn't putting what she read into practice. It's with a daily practice that we change the frequency of our vibration.

 

             Sonia Choquette

Sonia reminds us that we are all students. Each of us faces challenges and the stories in this book can help us learn through OPE (other people's experience).

In this book, Sonia stresses the importance of how we breathe. Shallow breathing – and even holding our breath – can keep us from feeling connection with our spirit.

"The preamble to our awakening is marked by a growing sense of overwhelm, exhaustion, anxiety, restlessness, impatience, irritation, depression, and complete victimhood. In other words, it's a feeling that life is a struggle, and there's nothing we can do about it."

Throughout the book Sonia has questions for us to answer which are best written in a journal. She also says to invite your spirit — your most authentic self — to answer them.

After answering the questions she guides you to close your eyes and to calmly breathe through your nose in a deep way that feels relaxed and wonderful. In fact, as she says, it can help you feel calm, connected to Source, peaceful, and energized all at the same time. She calls this "connected breathing" and it is a technique she explains in the book. I love how it makes me feel! Sonia suggests you do it for 15 minutes. It is a way of breathing that connects the breaths and connects you with your spirit. I've heard that the word inspire means to breathe in — and it feels inspiring to breathe this way.

Reading about "connected breathing" helped me to realize it's what I do — and feel — when I do my 15 minute meditation each morning. As Sonia says, using a timer allows you to relax. What I realized while reading this part of the book was how good it feels to do this "connected breathing" at other times during the day — or night — any time I notice my breathing has gotten shallow or that I'm feeling tense and find I'm holding my breath.

Sonia says, "To surrender to the power of Spirit, you must listen to your heart and admit how you feel, first to yourself and then to others, even if your truth makes you or those around you uncomfortable, angry, or afraid." She goes on to say, "To live in alignment with your Spirit is to live your truth and build your life upon it."

"Live Your Love"
As Sonia points out in this part of the book, none of us knows how long we have on this planet. A powerful thing to do is to make a list of all the things you want to do or experience before you leave this life. I love her suggestion to put the list in a prominent place and plan to do one of them — or at least part of one of them — each day. As she points out we really don't have time to put off our dreams for someone else's demands. I suggest we all take her advice and begin to do the things on our list!

"Go with the Flow"
I found this part of the book a great reminder for me when I begin to want to control life: "Make a habit to relax. Let go. Take a breath and look around. Enjoy the view. Accept life as it unfolds rather than try to force it in a particular way."

"The Ebb"
"The greatest challenge to staying in the flow comes when you encounter 'the ebb,' which is any change, expected or unexpected, that leaves you feeling threatened and insecure because you aren't sure what's coming next." 

Ebbs are part of life and they come when our life shifts.  As Sonia points out, ebbs instigate growth — they invite us to become aware of what's holding us back and they help to move us forward in the direction we're meant to go. They lead us into our next experience of being in the flow.

There is an inspiring quote by Earl Nightingale that Sonia included in the section on the flow: "All you have to do is know where you're going. The answers will come to you of their own accord."

The book ends with an inspiring list of choices we can make as part of our daily practice. Sonia suggests we write the list in our own handwriting on a beautiful piece of paper and read the things on the list out loud daily.

Do I recommend this book? YES.

Here are four ways to purchase, The Power of Your Spirit by Sonia Choquette:

Sonia Choquette will be leading a 2-hour workshop on "The Power of Your Spirit" at the Pasadena, California, and Tampa, Florida, "I CAN DO IT!" conferences. I've signed up for her workshop in Pasadena. I've been to other workshops with Sonia and have enjoyed being with her for them. She is inspiring, playful, and FUN. If you would like to meet Sonia and attend one of her workshops, click here or on one of the links below for more information and to buy your ticket.

 

Book Review: Be Your Own Shaman — by Deborah King

While looking at books, from Hay House publishing, that I could review next, this book by Deborah King caught my attention. For many years, I've heard the words "energy medicine" and "shaman" and have been curious to know more about them. Because of my curiosity, the title of this book, Be Your Own Shaman: Heal Yourself and Others with 21st Century Energy Medicine, inspired me to want to read it and review it. 

 

Have you ever wondered what energy medicine is and how it can help people heal? I know I've wondered for some time now and this book was able to answer some of my questions.

One of my favorite parts of the book was the introduction because in it I got a chance to know a little about Deborah King, how she defines what it means to be a shaman, and also how she became interested in energy medicine. Deborah King discovered energy medicine when she was diagnosed with cancer in her 20s. She tells how it helped her and why she decided to become a healer herself.

Deborah King says, "One reason I use the term shaman, which can also be defined as a person who acts as an intermediary between the human world and spirit worlds  — between the natural and supernatural — is that it encapsulates the idea that everything in our universe is connected. We are all linked — to each other, to the physical world of our senses, and to the world beyond that we aren't able to see."

There is a quote from Louise Hay on the book's front cover that also contributed to my decision to review this book:

"Be Your Own Shaman is an excellent book. It will take you deep within yourself and allow you to connect with life in a totally different way. Anyone seeking the path of the healer needs to read this book. I loved it."
— Louise L. Hay

Now that I've read the book, I agree with what Louise Hay says – this book does change how we look at life and healing. It really does take you deep within yourself. You'll see what I mean when you read it.

Reading this book also made me curious to read Deborah King's first book, Truth Heals. After taking a look at it online, I've decided I would like to read it as well.

Deborah King

I've decided to take a workshop with Deborah King when I attend the "I CAN DO IT!" conference in Pasadena this October. If you decide to go, perhaps I'll see you there! To get the best price on your ticket you'll want to buy it by 6/23/11. After that the prices go up.

Click on the following link to get a ticket for Deborah King's workshop  – or a ticket for all of the "I CAN DO IT!" conference in Pasadena:

 
As Deborah King says:
"I'm sure you have something you want to heal. We all do. Your health, your weight, your finances, a relationship – or even the lack of one. And maybe you not only want to heal the parts of your life that are dysfunctional, but you are also intrigued, as I was, by the idea of being able to help others. The fascinating thing is that these two goals, healing yourself and healing others, are inextricably linked: in the process of learning to facilitate healing in others, you yourself become healed. It's actually impossible for you to study energy medicine without experiencing positive change yourself."

Later in the book, Deborah King says:
"In addition to learning healing techniques, becoming your own shaman is dependent upon your clarity. Once you're clear within yourself, you can be a clear channel for others."

To get this kind of clarity, she suggests the following five practices:

1. Journaling
2. Meditation
3. Prayer
4. Forgiveness
5. Being of service

For each of the five practices there are helpful suggestions and ideas for how to do them. For journaling, she had several suggestions for making it work best for you. The suggestions for journaling remind me of doing my "Morning Pages" so I could really relate to that part.

I agree with what Deborah King said about journaling: "In essence to truly be strong and joyful we have to live in truth. Journal writing helps us do that."

In this book, there is a wonderful Hawaiian clearing technique that is said to activate forgiveness. It is like a prayer, or mantra with the words, "I'm sorry. Forgive me. I love you. Thank you."

Just recently I had heard those words during an interview with Joe Vitale by Lisa Garr. Joe Vitale said you can say the words in any order. (He was talking about you saying it to yourself – as well as to others or God.) Because Joe said you could do it in any order, I tried various ways and it seems true to me as well. For example you could say, "I love you. I'm sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you." But I think I like it best when I say, "I'm sorry. Please forgive me. I love you! Thank you."

It seems to me this book can also help us stay healthy by reminding us of the power of forgiveness – for others and ourselves.

I am glad Hay House sent me a copy of this book to review. I am glad to have read it and have it as part of my personal library.

Whether you know what energy medicine is or not – whether you know what it means to "be a shaman" or not – this book will enlighten you, entertain you, and inspire you. And perhaps it will help you to heal your own life and help people you love as well.

If you're curious about energy medicine – and how to be your own shaman – get a copy of this book!

Here are some links to buy the book:

Book Review: The Angel Therapy Handbook – Doreen Virtue

 

 

I chose to review Doreen Virtue's new book because I was curious to learn more about Angels and to find out what it means to do "Angel Therapy."

Before I begin my review of the book, I would like to tell you a little about how I got interested in Doreen Virtue and the subject of Angels. 

In June 2008, I emailed my schedule for the Las Vegas "I Can Do It!" conference to a treasured friend of mine. He emailed back asking me about Doreen Virtue. It surprised me that he was asking about her — even though she was one of the speakers for the event.  It turned out that he had met a woman named Anna Taylor who had studied with Doreen. As I got to know Anna, I began to ask her questions about Angels. Talking with Anna inspired me to buy a small book by Doreen Virtue called "Angels 101" and reading that book got me curious to learn more about Angels. 

 

 

Before I began reading The Angel Therapy Handbook, I wondered if it would be right for me since I'd never studied with Doreen. But I found myself being fascinated by Doreen's story about how she began to combine her experience as a psychotherapist with what she had learned firsthand about angels. 

What is Angel Therapy?  Here's how Doreen describes it:  "Angel Therapy is a non-denominational spiritual healing method that involves working with a person's guardian angels and archangels, to heal and harmonize every aspect of life."

Angels are a link to Divine Guidance and are available to help when we ask them. The key thing to remember is that they love to help but can only help if we ASK. 

I have to admit that reading the book was fun for me. I enjoyed reading it and began to be more curious about the workshops Doreen teaches. During the past couple of years, I've met more and more people who have studied with her. What they have in common is that they are all kind and loving people that I am glad to have met.

Doreen Virtue has been teaching her Angel Therapy Practitioner Course since 1997 and has helped thousands of people learn skills for spiritual healing. In this book she shares with her readers tools, secrets, and exercises she teaches her students. For those who have studied with her, this is a wonderful reference book. For the rest of us, it is an interesting and entertaining look at her teaching.

 

 
Reading The Angel Therapy Handbook — with Bender

 

On the back cover of the book, Doreen Virtue says, "My life purpose isn't to give angel readings and spiritual healings to clients. It's to teach other people to do these things for themselves and their clients. I always encourage my spiritual-counseling students to teach others — to create an ever-spreading ripple effect that increases the awareness that we all have angels, that we all can communicate with them, and that we all have spiritual gifts we can use to help ourselves and the world." 

This book has great advice for anyone who feels called to speak, teach, or do healing work of any kind.

In the book Doreen talks about a little-known universal law that she says is always in operation: The Law of Action. She goes on to say, "This rule states that as you take any action in the direction of your goal — no matter how seemingly small — the universe will take an even greater step in your direction to meet and support your goal."

Especially during the current economic downturn people often have less work and find themselves with more free time. We can each choose to use that time for some — any — action. We can choose to help others, explore new paths, make new connections, and to stay active. Passivity leads to boredom and self-doubt. Action of any kind helps keep your mind sharp, active, helps you feel good, and moves you toward your desired outcomes. What are some small actions you can take today?

My husband, Dudley, and I enjoyed meeting Doreen when her band, Obsidian, played in San Francisco. Doreen looks like an angel onstage — whether she is speaking or playing guitar with her band. 

Yes, I am glad I decided to review this book. I am also glad that I've begun to learn about angels. What have I learned?

• Angels are non-denominational so they are available to everyone.  
• Angels are with us all of the time — we just need to believe it and tune into them.
• Angels love to help us — but we must ASK them to help.

Do I recommend this book? YES!

If you've studied with Doreen, you'll enjoy having this book as a reminder of what she's taught you. If you are new to her work, I suggest starting with her book Angels 101 so you know the basics of what she teaches. 

If you would like to learn more about angels and "Angel Therapy" get a copy of this book! I feel sure you'll enjoy reading it. 

Here are some ways to purchase a copy of The Angel Therapy Handbook:

The Kick-Ass Dancing Goddess Guide: A Must Read Manual to Stop Playing Small and Start Claiming Your Crown – Diana Dorell

 

Diana Dorell's new e-book, The Kick-Ass Dancing Goddess Guide: A Must-Read Manual to Stop Playing Small and Start Claiming Your Crown, is delightful, creative, and fun to read. I feel certain you'll love this empowering little e-book — and you can get a free copy of it by joining Diana's email newsletter list on her website. I'll give you the details at the end of this message.

I have to confess that I loved reading The Kick-Ass Dancing Goddess Guide. I've been showing it to friends and family members — and they love it too. Yesterday I showed it to a treasured friend who has a teenage daughter. Because of Diana's writing style, we believe teens are going to love her stories and examples, and especially her sense of humor. While I am sure teens will love it, I found it was empowering and inspiring for me. I wish I had read this when I was a teen!       

Kick Ass Dancing Goddess – age 3

Do you ever feel like a little girl who is afraid to tell people what you really think or really want? If we are honest with ourselves there are times when each of us feels like the little girl no matter what our age.

The stories, examples, and exercises in the e-book are sure to empower you – and bring out your own "Kick-Ass Dancing Goddess" self.

What is this empowering "self" like?

Diana says, "She has her hand on her hip. She carries a beautiful gold staff and wears a shiny gold tiara with rubies, emeralds, and peridots, along with a long, red velvet gown. She has fabulous hair. And she knows you better than anyone… She lives inside of you but for a number of reasons, she may feel like she's gone missing."

While reading the stories in this e-book you'll feel your inner Goddess beginning to take charge. You'll feel empowered, encouraged, and inspired. You'll be reminded that to get what you really want you must be clear on what it is you want — and you must be willing to ASK for what you want.

 

Diana – dolled up for dinner ala Betty Page

The story that goes with the picture, above, clearly illustrates the points and helps you remember them!

In this book you'll discover the six top actions that "separate the Girls from the Goddesses." What are they? You'll have to read the e-book to find out!

There is also a bonus section "Kick-Ass Dancing Goddess" affirmations.

I'll include two here to get you started.

"Let all fall away that keeps me from my Highest and Greatest Good!"

"Today, I follow my heart's true desire. I lead with my passion
and channel my emotions into creative pursuits!"

The message in this book is powerful. Love yourself, believe in yourself, and your life will be more fun for you and will inspire and empower the people you love. Life is meant to be fun. Allow yourself to be playful, have fun, and dance to the music of your heart's desires.

If you want to be entertained and empowered all in one e-book, I highly recommend getting your copy of it now. You can read it over and over to remind you of the empowering lessons and beliefs which will inspire you to take action toward your heart's desires, exiting outcomes, and cherished dreams.

 

 
Diana Dorell – The Dancing Goddess

To get your copy of Diana Dorell's fabulous, empowering, and fun e-book:
Go to Diana Dorell's Dancing Goddess website:  www.TheDancingGoddess.com
Sign up for her e-newsletter and you'll receive a FREE copy of the e-book!

To connect with Diana on Facebook and Twitter:
www.facebook.com/dianadorell
www.twitter.com/dancinggoddess

I am posting this message on Valentine's Day to remind you how to have the Valentine's Day — and life — of your dreams. ASK for what you really want and have a Happy, Joyful, and Fun Valentine's Day!

Creating Love for a Lifetime – Kathy D. Infeld

When I was asked to review Kathy D. Infeld's book, Creating Love For A Lifetime – The Five C's To A Successful Marriage, I said, "YES!" Why? Because I was curious to find out what Kathy has learned about creating a love that lasts. Kathy is a psychotherapist, mediator, coach, author, and a woman who has been married for over 37 years.

In my opinion this book can help people create and enjoy a happy marriage or improve their current love relationship. Whether you are single, engaged, just married, or have been married for many years – this book is for you. My husband and I have been married for 28 years. I believe that a large part of why we are still happy together is because we practice what Kathy calls "The Five Cs."

One of the things I love about this book is Kathy's honesty and her willingness to share stories from her own marriage to help illustrate her points. Right from the start she is honest about how two years into her marriage she thought it wasn't going to work. She goes on to tell the stories of how that changed through what she learned in her own marriage which is part of how she helps others with theirs.

Kathy D. Infeld

When I asked Kathy why she wrote this book, she said, "I wrote this book for couples who want to know how to have a successful, sensual, and loving marriage."

One thing I want to make clear is that although the book is about creating a marriage that lasts, the principles in the book can help you improve any kind of relationship. I also feel the book could help couples decide if they are ready for marriage and if they are right for each other. I see this book as being helpful to anyone who wants to have better relationships with the people they love.

The book has many inspiring quotes about love. Here are three of my favorites:

 "Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength.
While loving someone deeply gives you courage."
– Lao Tzu

"If speaking is silver, then listening is gold."
– Turkish Proverb

"Love doesn't make the world go round.
Love is what makes the ride worthwhile."
– Elizabeth Barrett Browning

The chapter on communication was one of my favorites. It is my belief that the quality of our lives greatly depends on the quality of our communications. As Kathy says, forgiveness, resolution, and negotiation all begin with communication. In order to have a great relationship, it's important that both people feel understood and that depends on our ability to communicate.

I would like to give you a brief overview of Kathy Infeld's Five C's: 

ONE: Commitment
The willingness and dedication to work on your relationship and create the kind of connection that will enhance life for both of you.

TWO: Communication
Improving your ability to understand, connect with each other, and create a bridge of love between the two of you.

THREE: Conflict 
Resolution
Negotiating differences of opinion, healing emotional wounds, and learning to fulfill each partner's needs.

FOUR: Cherishing
Learning to appreciate your partner and express that appreciation, gratitude, sensuality, and love in your relationship.

FIVE: Communion of Spirit
Expressing your growth, love, and purpose as a couple – your own unique way of giving through your life together.

Through the pages of her book, Creating Love for a Lifetime - The Five C’S to a Successful Marriage, Kathy describes these principles in detail. I enjoyed reading the examples of the various couples Kathy has helped with her Five C's. The stories, examples, and exercises in this book helped the couples revitalize, renew, and in some cases re-invent their love.

Following are three ways to buy Creating Love for a Lifetime:

Balboa Press 
Amazon
Barnes & Nobel 

If you would like to see inside of the book, click on the Amazon link above. To find out more about Kathy Infeld, her book, and to read her blog, visit her website at www.kathyinfeld.com.

Are you ready to create a love that lasts a lifetime? Would you like to improve all of your relationships? If you are, I recommend you buy and read this book. 

A Course in Weight Loss – Book & CDs – Marianne Williamson

 

When Hay House publishing sent me an email asking me to do a review of Marianne Williamson's new book, A Course in Weight Loss, my first thought was that I didn't want to do it. But then I began to wonder if the book and CDs might be helpful to the people who read my blog so I decided to write the review. 

I've heard Marianne speak at the Hay House conferences, and also at our local bookstore. I found her to be an inspiring speaker and person. I was honest with my contact at Hay House and told her I would prefer to listen to CDs of Marianne's book. The result was they sent me both — the book and the CDs of the book.

This "course" is aimed at an audience of "compulsive eaters" or "food addicts." It seems to me that those are two extremes of behavior and the lessons could also help people who just want to let go of some behaviors that cause them to overeat. It could also help them find ways to replace overeating with loving kindness and a greater feeling of connection with other people.

What I discovered while listening to the CDs was that her message is one that can help people with other issues besides shedding excess weight. I mentioned this to a friend, after I had listened to all of the CDs, and she decided she would like to listen to the CDs and see if they could help her become a nonsmoker. (My friend has no problem with her weight but has been a smoker for many years.) Following is what she told me this morning after listening to the first two CDs:

"I've never had anything hit such a nerve in me about quitting smoking as these CDs by Marianne Williamson. I would definitely recommend this book and the CDs for people trying to kick the nicotine or other compulsions or addictive behaviors. In fact, I woke up this morning and threw all my cigarettes away."

What made the difference for her, I believe, is that the CDs were about a problem that she could pretend was about smoking. She began to hear the message that overeating (or in her case smoking) were ways of being unloving to herself.

We both feel that the book and CDs can help people who have compulsive or addictive behaviors and want a new way to think about their behavior. Although the subtitle of the book is "21 Spiritual Lessons for Surrendering Your Weight Forever" these same spiritual lessons can help people with being more loving to themselves in a variety of ways.

Marianne Williamson has been teaching the principles of A Course in Miracles for many years. She found that the lessons she learned and was teaching had helped her change from someone who was a compulsive eater to someone who people thought had never had a problem with eating or her weight.

I had already changed how I looked at eating — what I eat and how much I eat — because of a desire to be a healthy person and to set a good example for my son. But the lessons in this book fit in beautifully with what has been working for me. The lessons also helped me feel compassion for "untidy me" so I can become more of a "tidy me." The lessons in this course help us be more loving to the "parts" of our behavior that make us feel bad — which just makes us want to do more of whatever that behavior consists of whether it's overeating, smoking, drinking, drugs, living in clutter, or a combination of compulsive behaviors.

The foreword for the book, written by Dr. Dean Ornish, inspired me. One of the things he said is that, "The real epidemic is not just obesity or heart disease or cancer; it's loneliness, depression, and isolation. If we address these deeper issues, then it becomes easier for people to make lasting changes in their behaviors." Dr. Ornish also states that he believes, "Fear is not a sustainable motivator." What works is for us to focus on love and the joy we can feel in living. As Dr. Ornish goes on to say, "Even more than being healthy and losing weight, most people want to feel free and in control."

Following are a few quotes from Marianne, from the book, that I would like to share with you here:

"…when you're eating wisely, you're expressing love for yourself… Love dissolves fear the way light dissolves darkness. Fat cells will dissolve permanently when they are dissolved through the power of love."

"For the overeater, food is an area where a spirit of fear has infected the nervous system… like a virus in a bio-computer."

"One of the ways you love yourself is by permitting yourself to want what you want."

"Overeating is an act of spiritual starvation, and one of the things the overeater often starves herself of is the natural right to dream. Invoking the real you begins with expanding your imagination, allowing yourself to want what you really want. You have as much right to your dreams as any other person."

Marianne Williamson has dedicated this book, and the CDs that go with it, to Oprah Winfrey. I would like to share the book's dedication here:

"This book began and ended as a communication between friends. Oprah Winfrey inspired the book, directed its course, and guided its vision. On a soul level definitely, and in many ways in a literary one, this book was a collaborative effort. Every page is a reflection of my affection for and gratitude to her; my hope is that it brings comfort to her as she has brought comfort to so many.

To any reader who may feel this book is a gift, please know it was a gift from her."

If it were up to me, I would change the title and re-design the cover of the book and CDs in order to achieve a wider audience appeal. I believe the book and CDs can help people make positive changes. All of us have our own reasons for resisting changes  — even when the changes can make us feel wonderful. If you're open to thinking of your behavior in some new and loving ways, you'll want to read this book and/or listen to the CDs.

To buy A Course in Weight Loss: 21 Spiritual Lessons for Surrendering Your Weight Forever, click on one of the following links:

Hay House
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Chapters Indigo (Canada)

To register for the 3-Day retreat in New York, click on the link below: