Book review: ‘Living a Committed Life’ by Lynne Twist

‘Living a Committed Life’ is the new book by Lynne Twist. Photo: Amazon

For more than 40 years, Lynne Twist has been a recognized global visionary committed to alleviating poverty,  ending world hunger and supporting social justice and environmental sustainability. From working with Mother Teresa in Calcutta to the refugee camps in Ethiopia and the threatened rainforests of the Amazon, as well as guiding the philanthropy of some of the worlds wealthiest families, Lynne’s on-the-ground work has brought her a deep understanding of  people’s relationship with money.  Her knowledge and experience has given her profound insights about the social tapestry of the world and the historical landscape of the times we are living in. What would your life be like if you committed to something larger than yourself? Find out in “Living a Committed Life: Finding Freedom and Fulfillment in a Purpose Larger Than Yourself,” the newest book from global transformation thought leader Lynne Twist. (Lynne Twist, 2022)

“Living a Committed Life” –By sharing stories and perspectives from her life, Lynne Twist reveals her unique experience as a thought leader and activist in multiple causes, from ending world hunger and protecting the Amazon rainforest to empowering women’s leadership. In the Introduction, Twist writes that although she hopes her stories inspire you, her goal in writing this book is “to inspire and motivate you to look inside yourself for your own commitments….” She starts off by sharing how, during an event called an Integrity Day, the speaker planted in her the vision that would guide her in her life’s work. She defines commitment as “an act of courage, integrity, and boldness” and that “committing oneself to an inspiring cause is what forges you into a great human being.” The book is divided into four parts: Part I The Power of Commitment, Part II The Soul of Commitment, Part III Challenges, Change, and Completion, and Part IV Creating Your Committed Life with a Discussion and Reflection Guide at the end to encourage deeper insight into the book’s topics. The Resources section lists organizations, like The Hunger Project and The Nobel Women’s Initiative, to consider if you are looking to get involved or make a difference.

Now more than ever, people are looking to make a difference in a world they see in constant conflict. Where do you start? How do you find your calling? Even though the author tries to help others in any and every way she can, she learned a powerful lesson: that somethings are not hers to do. This is a lesson we can all learn. We should know our limits and accept that we cannot do it all. We can only do so much. She has the mentality that every disappointment and every breakdown is an opportunity for growth but she admits that not everyone has the same struggles. She shows you how to make and keep commitments, engage in individual and collective action, and discover ways to connect and collaborate to make a difference. The language is easy and down to earth and her stories are engaging and inspiring. Highlights include Chapter 9 From Scarcity to Sufficiency where she lists the three toxic myths of scarcity: that ‘there is not enough,’ that ‘more is better,’ and that ‘it’s just the way it is’; and Chapter 10 Being Tested where she shares how she came to the realization that it takes a village to raise a child because even though her commitments kept her busy to the extent that she was missing out on some of her children’s lives, she was modeling a life of service to them and by her being gone sometimes, they became more independent and relied on each other and their father more, which strengthened their bond. “Living a Committed Life” is an excellent resource that teaches readers how to live a committed life to enrich their authentic self. It is a must read and recommended for fans of motivational self help books who appreciate advice on personal transformation.

“Living a committed life will bring you an experience of great freedom and profound fulfillment, as well as unimaginable joy.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Autism Treatment Center to host Going to the Dogs event

Going to the Dogs dog adoption and dog shopping event is this Saturday August 27, 2022. Photo: Autism Treatment Center San Antonio

On Saturday, August 27 from 9a.m.- 1p.m., “Going to the Dogs,” the Autism Treatment Center (ATC) will host a dog adoption and dog-related shopping event. (Autism Treatment Center, 2022)

Event details:

  • Pet adoptions by: Austin Boxer Rescue and Lucky Spot Dog Rescue
  • Dog-themed décor and t-shirts by Autism Treatment Center Adult Services
  • Healthy Homemade Doggie Treats by Love Puppy Bakery
  • Handmade bandanas and bowties by Their Beautiful Voice
  • Pet sketches by artists

Location: Autism Treatment Center,15911 Nacogdoches Rd., Building 2, San Antonio, TX  78247

Event summary:

  • Whether you are looking for a dog to adopt or just want to shop for the one you have, “Going to the Dogs” has it all. You and your pooch are invited to join the fun at the Autism Treatment Center on Saturday, August 27 from 9a.m. to 1p.m. for this inside event.  Austin Boxer Rescue and Lucky Spot Dog Rescue will have a selection of dogs available for adoption. Austin Boxer Rescue is an affiliate of Lonestar Boxer Rescue, which serves all of Texas and the Austin chapter is the one that serves San Antonio.
  • You can also shop for healthy homemade dog treats and dog-themed gifts, décor, and clothing from partnering vendors. Be sure to bring a photo if you would like to get a custom sketch of your furry best friend.
  • Everyone is invited to visit with dogs that are available for adoption and shop for a variety of dog-related items: healthy homemade dog treats; doggie bandanas and bowties; and dog-themed gifts, home décor, and T-shirts made by adults with autism. We will also have an artist doing custom pet sketches. 
  • Whether you are looking for a dog to adopt or just want to shop for the one you already have, “Going to the Dogs” has it all.    

Why ATC is partnering with the rescue groups:

  • Dogs have a special way of making our lives better.  Everyone can benefit from their unconditional love and companionship and this is especially true for children and adults with autism.
  • That’s why the Autism Treatment Center is partnering with Austin Boxer Rescue and Lucky Spot Dog Rescue for “Going to the Dogs”, a sensory-friendly, pet-friendly adoption and shopping event at our facility on Nacogdoches Rd. on Saturday, August 27th.
  • The adults in ATC’s weekday program have created some dog-related products on sale. The clothing is bandanas and bowties for dogs and T-shirts for people. 
  • In addition, through the weekday program, they also have created wreaths, terrariums, home décor and customize items such as cups, bags, and T-shirts as part of their independent living and live skills training. 

Hiatus Spa + Retreat debuts clean CBD products

Hiatus Spa + Retreat now has two clean CBD Products: Knot Today Active Muscle Cream and Soothing Joint Serum. Photo: Hiatus Spa + Retreat, used with permission.

Hiatus Spa + Retreat, the award-winning Texas day spa with eight locations across the state, now offers a clean CBD line of products featuring a Knot Today Active Muscle CBD Cream (valued at $49) and a Knot Today Soothing Joint Serum (valued at $49), both offered online and in-spa. Each 2oz. product contains Hiatus’ 99.5% pure, 100% THC-free CBD. (Hiatus Spa + Retreat, 2022)

Anyone with muscle or joint pain can benefit from Hiatus’ CBD products including athletes who are experiencing delayed onset muscle soreness, anyone recovering from injury, and those experiencing pain and discomfort from conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, or bursitis. Since their CBD is 99.5% pure and 100% THC-free, their CBD muscle cream and joint serum are perfect for anyone who is looking for a hyper-clean CBD product.

  • Knot Today Active Muscle CBD Cream: The experience of their CBD Active Muscle Cream feels very…active. The 12% menthol concentration provides an immediate powerful cooling sensation, but the methyl salicylate, which also gives the product its dominant wintergreen aroma, leaves a lasting warming sensation after the menthol subsides. Though it is intended for sore muscles, it also contains Arnica montana extract, which is perfect for reducing swelling and bruising. The product base is totally greaseless, colorless, and absorbs quickly without residue. 
  • Knot Today Soothing Joint Serum: The experience of the Soothing Joint Serum is much more subtle yet effective. Hiatus paired the CBD with a joint-nourishing herbal cocktail of German Chamomile, Lavender, Sweet Marjoram, Frankincense, and a hint of cooling Peppermint in a clean, greaseless, fast-absorbing serum.

“What a lot of people don’t realize is that cannabinoids, the family of molecules that CBD is a part of, are already in bodies as part of our natural endocannabinoid system. This system helps to regulate many of the body’s major physiological functions, such as appetite and metabolism, sleep, stress, pain, and many others. If a runner is training for an event, they’re likely putting their body under a lot of repeated stress over an extended amount of time. This might not always result an injury, but any runner can tell you they have had to power through some minor aches and pains. This stress and recovery cycle can outpace the level at which the natural endocannabinoid system can keep up with. Incorporating CBD is like supplementing your body’s own natural system. At 99.5% pure, our Active Muscle Cream contains one of the purest forms of CBD available, partnered with 2 kinds of pain relieving agents and 2 herbal anti-inflammatory extracts to target today’s pain and aid tomorrow’s recovery.” –– Mason Hickman, Hiatus Director of Education + Product Development

With eight locations across Texas, eight years on Inc. 5000’s fastest-growing companies, and an innovative spa subscription model, Hiatus Spa + Retreat is a fresh kind of full-service spa that has changed the wellness industry. Powered by products with real green ingredients and a high-touch experience, Hiatus’ personalized approach to wellness is driven by the view that regular relaxation should be an empowering part of a healthy, happy lifestyle.

Photo: Hiatus Spa + Retreat, used with permission.

Tapping the Source: an online science and spirituality summit

Tapping the Source is an online event taking place this Saturday July 16, 2022. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Join Dr. & Master Zhi Gang Sha on Saturday July 16, 2022, from 12p.m. -5p.m. ET for a cutting-edge summit led by a panel of world-class scientific leaders and spiritual teachers, including Dr. Rulin Xiu, Ervin Laszlo, and special guest Deepak Chopra. This is a rare opportunity to learn directly from some of the greatest minds (and souls) on the planet who will help you unlock your potential and exceed your limitations. These four distinguished scientists, doctors, and leaders are coming together for the first time to share their distinct wisdom and show you how to create change in your own life. Stay tuned for a special free showing of the film Tapping the Source at end of the event. (Tapping the Source, 2022)

All proceeds will be donated to charitable organizations. Visit Tapping the Source to reserve your spot. Ticket includes full access to the Live Summit, free Tao Quantum Healing session, exclusive gifts from the speakers, and access to the replays for thirty days.

Tapping the Source is a live online event taking place on Saturday July 16, 2022. Viewers will get to experience a panel of world class speakers in real time. For everyone who registers, a full recording of the summit will be made available for up to 30 days following the event. You can watch the parts you missed or re-watch the talks that were most inspiring.

Cascade Languages learning site

Cascade Languages is a website for anyone looking to learn a new language, either Spanish or French. Photo: Cascade Languages.

Cascade Languages is an Australian education and publishing company. They teach languages using stories and art. Their mission is to turn language learning into entertainment. Their goal is to show that learning a language does not need to be boring. (Cascade Languages, 2022)

Their approach: “We do things differently. Whatever you are used to, whatever you are expecting, we don’t do things that way. Give us a few minutes and we will teach you a new language and use that language to entertain you.”

The languages include Spanish and French. Pricing plans are the Basic Plan – $0 and once you sign up, it is valid for six months and includes free access to Stage 1 of all languages; and the Standard Plan – $10 every month and includes access to all the content on the site.

I recently got a chance to sample the French lessons. It is easy to sign up for the free portion. The French menu consists of five stages: Stage 1 – where it all begins, Stage 2 – a continuation of stage one; the adventure continues, Stage 3 – more stories, more comprehension, Stage 4 – some more stories with comprehension guarantee through repetition, Stage 4 – Classics with a twist, Stage 5 – The Princess, and Stage 5 – Smorgasbord, which is basically everything else, from food items, to animals.

Overall, the site is user friendly and easy to navigate. The lessons are short and to the point without any unnecessary filler and the comprehension level is high through the use of repetition. Since I already speak Spanish, I wanted to try the French lessons even though I have a basic understanding since I took French in high school. Perhaps this made it easier to understand and there is no way of knowing if someone who has no previous French knowledge will find it as easy to learn. My review of the site is mainly how user friendly it is and the methods used in teaching the language. I found it easy to use and highly effective as a refresher course and in expanding my understanding of the French language. I would certainly recommend it to someone looking to learn a new language or to refresh their knowledge of Spanish or French.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Craig Lewis books on addiction and mental health

‘You’re Crazy, Volume Two’ by Craig Lewis. Photo: Craig Lewis, used with permission.

Craig Lewis is an Expert by Experience, a Psychiatric Survivor, author, a lifelong punk rocker, a fearless activist, a workshop trainer, and international speaker. Craig has survived a lifetime of struggle and has chosen not to waste it. Craig shares his experiences, knowledge, and lessons learned in the hopes of supporting others in living happier, healthier, and more satisfying lives. This is an ongoing journey and Craig, like all of us, is a work in progress. Two of his books are “The Craig Lewis Guide to Surviving the Impossible” and “You’re Crazy, Volume Two: First Hand Accounts of Surviving Trauma, Addiction & Mental Health from within the Punk Rock Scene.”

“The Craig Lewis Guide to Surviving the Impossible” is written by a human being who learned the hard way the difference between being alive and truly living. This book is intended to help readers figure out their true path. If you put in the effort, you will experience improvements. The bottom line is this: You, the person reading these words, have the power within to heal and become whoever you were born to be. That is the path that this author has chosen. May your journey result in healing, peace and love. “The Craig Lewis Guide to Surviving the Impossible” features fifteen passages and worksheets intended to encourage the reader to go within themselves and figure out how to heal what is hurting them.

“You’re Crazy, Volume Two” is a collection of personal stories written by twenty punk rockers from around the world. All of the writers have experienced trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles. As you read these stories, you will know both the pain and the beauty that makes these uniquely brilliant human beings who they are today. We are unapologetic for surviving. Instead, we choose to live the lives we deserve. We hope that others like us will read these stories and recognize that they, too, have the power to create the better lives they want. After all, we are Punk Rockers!

PP

‘The Art of the Doodle: How to Use Drawing for Stress Relief’ online event

Yoga instructor and international certified mindfulness instructor Courtney Abruzzo is holding a workshop on using drawing for stress relief. Photo: Courtney Abruzzo, used with permission.

Courtney Abruzzo is an art, yoga, mindfulness and social emotional arts educator with over 20 years’ experience. She has been a presenter through UCLArts & Healing, We Rise Los Angeles, People Concern and many other locations throughout Southern California. On Saturday March 26, 2022 from 12p.m. to 1:30p.m., she is holding an online event: ‘The Art of the Doodle: How to Use Drawing For Stress Relief.This pay-what-you-can online event combines mindfulness and drawing to create a relaxing experience from the comfort of your home. (Courtney Abruzzo, 2022)

About this event:

Take the opportunity to relax, be playful and enjoy an escape from daily stresses. Walk through art history to learn and explore how artists have used simple drawing and doodling techniques to inform their artworks and engage in mindfulness. Understand the science behind why drawing and doodling relieves stress. Have fun with simple materials by engaging in a series of mindful drawing exercises focused on process instead of outcome. No drawing experience necessary. Choose which techniques work for you. This is an encouraging, no-pressure environment to help you kick-start or deepen mindfulness and your drawing practice.

Read more about Drawing For Stress Relief and how it helps reduce stress.

PP

1648277460

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

‘The Art of the Doodle’ workshop

The road to self-improvement in the new year

New Year’s resolutions meant to better yourself. Photo: google

The year is almost over and a new year on the horizon means people are looking forward to new beginnings. Making New Year’s resolutions is one way to greet the new year and improve your life. Some of the most popular include getting in shape, getting organized, and finding a better job. In the spirit of new beginnings, I wanted to look into unconventional resolutions, while shining the light on some of the tried and true ones that are worth mentioning.

Better fitness
This often includes a combination of getting in shape and losing weight. One way to help you stick to an exercise routine is to have a workout friend. Another is to find an activity you enjoy, otherwise you will get bored and lose interest. I am particular to roller skating and riding my bike. Accountability is important to help you stay on track of your wellness goals and fitness technology like Fitbit is fast becoming the norm. While exercising is important for improved health, you will get better results if you combine it with cutting calories – it is all about moderation.

Live life to its fullest
This does not necessarily mean making major life changes, but rather enjoying the life you already have. Do not wait for special occasions to give someone a gift. Celebrate the small moments. Create your own opportunities by taking action instead of waiting for life to come to you. When all else fails, make a bucket list. Carpe diem!

Accept change
Life is full of changes; it is inevitable. It is what helps us grow because we become exposed to new ideas and experiences that come along the way. Embrace life’s little surprises and strive to think positively about changes. When life throws me a curveball, I just say to myself “Plot twist,” and move on.

Be kind to yourself
Do not be so hard on yourself, we are not meant to be perfect. Let go of what you cannot control and try to get past what hurt you in the past, including heartbreaks, disappointments, and anger. Stop trying to please everyone and learn to say ‘no’ to make room for more important matters in your life.

Be empathic
Try to see life through other people’s eyes. When we only see our own perspective, we tend to be judgmental and close-minded. Like my father always told us while we were growing up, “if everyone were the same, this world would be a very boring place.”

Better money management
To help you make better financial decisions, consider setting a budget and looking for ways to cut costs or make extra money. This includes everything from selling your unwanted possessions to consignment shops to buying from thrift stores. It is surprising the excellent deals you can find at Goodwill. Remember that just because something is on sale it does not mean you have to buy it.

Give back to your community
Depending on how much time you have to give, consider taking time out to volunteer. It does not take much to practice random acts of kindness and make someone’s day. Donating to charity organizations makes you feel better and is an excellent way to declutter your home. Nonprofit organizations that support your skills or values are always appreciative of your time and money.

Manage your stress
Stress management and reduction techniques like meditation and yoga can do wonders for your nervous system. To keep yourself focused, practice mindfulness – the state of being in the present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations.

Know your limits
This is especially true during a major life event like moving to a new home, whether across town or across the country. We do not always have to do everything ourselves. To make moving easier and less stressful, consider hiring movers to handle the load. If you are in the Dallas area, consider Youngstars Moving & Delivery.

Youngstars Moving & Delivery specializes in local and long distance moving. The company is made up of movers with years of experience in the moving industry and pride themselves in competitive prices and above all, customer satisfaction. Moving can be a pain and their goal is to make your move as painless as possible. They are committed to providing service of the highest quality, paying particular attention to working efficiently while keeping the lines of communication with clients clear and concise. Their mission is simple: to provide high-quality services in a timely manner. Their team caters to each project’s specific needs to ensure excellence. If all you need is movers to do the heavy work, Moving & Delivery has labor movers in Dallas. Fee includes tools and dollies. There is a two hour minimum charge. Packages range from one mover for $45 an hour to 6 movers for $210 an hour, whatever it takes to get the job done.

Youngstars Moving & Delivery, for all your moving needs. Photo: Youngstars Moving & Delivery, used with permission.
Youngstars Moving & Delivery offers residential and commercial moving services. Photo: Youngstars Moving & Delivery, used with permission.

Sponsored Post