Tag: Wellness

Manifest Your Dreams: A Review of ‘My 90 Day Manifestation Journal’

Unlock the power of manifestation with this interactive journal by Katrina Lustre. Photo: Amazon

“My 90 Day Manifestation Journal” offers a structured and personal approach to manifesting one’s goals and aspirations. As a self-help tool, the journal guides readers through a 90-day journey of introspection and intentional living. The writing style is encouraging and empathetic, making it accessible to readers at any stage of their personal development journey.

It starts with defining manifestation and how it works, tips on creating a vision board, and developing an action plan. The emphasis is on daily reflection, intention setting, and proactive steps taken. The daily pages prompt the reader to focus on gratitude, affirmations, and specific goals, fostering a habit of mindfulness and positivity.

The journal is beautifully designed, with plenty of space for personal reflections and creative expression. The layout is natural, making it easy for readers to write their daily entries and track their progress over the 90 days.

Overall, “My 90 Day Manifestation Journal” is a helpful guide for anyone looking to manifest their dreams. This worthwhile journal combines practical exercises with motivational insights. It is recommended for readers interested in personal growth and manifestation practices.

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Reviving Psychedelic Exploration: ‘Psychedelic Revival’ by Sean Lawlor

‘Psychedelic Revival: Toward a New Paradigm of Healing’ is the new book by Sean Lawlor. Photo: Amazon

Sean Lawlor, LPCC, is an author, traveler, psychedelic therapist, and regular contributor to leading sites on the topic of psychedelics, such as Psychedelics Today and Psychedelic Times. Sean has a master of arts in clinical mental health counseling from Naropa University, and he has been trained in ketamine-assisted therapy, MDMA-assisted therapy, and Internal Family Systems. He currently facilitates ketamine therapy at a clinic in Fort Collins, Colorado. In his new book “Psychedelic Revival,” he invites readers on a journey into the science, spirituality, and the practice of psychedelic healing—a revival of both the first wave of pre-1960s research and ancient healing traditions with plant medicines. (Sounds True, 2024)

Psychedelics have tremendous healing potential, yet all evocative modalities should be handled with care. To make good choices, we need quality information about the prospects and pitfalls of these emerging therapeutic tools. “Psychedelic Revival” is an invaluable resource for navigating this exciting frontier in Western healing.

“Psychedelic Revival” – An expansive, multidimensional odyssey into the history, practice, and potential of psychedelic healing. Now that the stigmas against psychedelic medicine are finally lifting, there’s a lot of curiosity—and confusion—about these powerful compounds.

How can psychedelics be used safely? What are the risks? Can they truly help heal the wide variety of conditions that has garnered such international attention?

Sean Lawlor explains the possibilities and limits of psychedelics, including:

• The Western history of psychedelic medicine and recreational use
• The millennium-spanning legacy of Indigenous plant medicine traditions
• In-depth chapters on psilocybin, LSD, MDMA, ketamine, mescaline, ibogaine, peyote, ayahuasca, DMT, and more
• Practical insights, from microdosing to psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy to transformative mystical experiences
• The shadow dimensions of psychedelics—bad trips, scientific stigmatization, inequality of access, and many other essential topics

Backed by solid research and wisdom from firsthand accounts, Lawlor guides readers into the psychedelic landscape, covering treatment methods, realistic benefits, and the legitimate dangers psychedelics can induce. Along the way, he shares exclusive interviews with luminaries such as Michael Pollan, Rick Doblin, Camille Barton, Carl Hart, Jim Fadiman, Rick Strassman, Natalie Ginsberg, Sandor Iron Rope, and many more.

National Wellness Month: LSPACE Fitness Event at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk will be hosting an LSPACE fitness event on August 25, 2024. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk’s luxury cabana just got an LSPACE makeover!

Beat the Texas heat this summer and book the LSPACE Cabana for the ultimate pool day at Cenote Pool Deck. With photo-worthy moments at every corner, the cabana is outfitted with LSPACE pillows, champagne buckets, and festive cups for enjoying a complimentary round of the LSPACE x Thompson Summer Breeze, a craft cocktail inspired by the quintessential California beach lifestyle brand. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2024)

From now through August, the cabana experience includes branded SWAG to take home including a canvas tote, towel, and postcard with a curated music playlist to keep the good vibes going all summer long.

To book this limited-time-only experience, please call Thompson San Antonio Spa at (210) 942-6027.

In celebration of National Wellness Month in August, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk invites you to a fitness event in partnership with LSPACE, the quintessential California beach lifestyle brand that believes the perfect fit is everything.

Set for August 25, your ticket includes a sampler of four fitness classes led by local instructors, followed by a Sip & Shop experience. Shop the look of the brand’s new activewear line and swimwear featuring beautiful everyday pieces designed with your moves in mind. Then, enjoy a mimosa bar and breakfast bites at Thompson’s Cenote Pool Deck.

All participants are invited to stay and relax at the pool for the rest of the day. Secure your tickets for some wellness, fashion and fun! 21+ only. For more info, please call 210.942.6027

Please note that all ticket purchases are non-refundable.

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk
115 Lexington Ave
San Antonio, TX 78205

Book Review: ‘How To Master Your Emotions’ – A Guide to Emotional Resilience

‘How To Master Your Emotions’ by Richard Rokicki is a support system for readers looking to better manage their emotions. Photo: Amazon

“How To Manage Your Emotions” is an essential guide to navigating the complex landscape of human emotions. Through a blend of practical advice and psychological insights, Rokicki offers readers a roadmap to understanding and managing their emotions. He refers to it as a ‘survival guide.’

The author begins by identifying the four main pillars of survival: the physical pillar, the psychological pillar, the social pillar, and the spiritual pillar, which he used in his work as a palliative care psychologist. He divides the book into these 4 parts. He then explores the various strategies for mastering emotions, such as breaking out of BINARY communication, management of toxic personalities, and the importance of forgiveness, not forgetting. By using case studies, he encourages introspection and emotional resilience. He also analyses Near Death Experiences and how they change the people who have experienced them.

Chapters include:
Introduction
The physical pillar
The psychological pillar
The social pillar
The spiritual pillar
General conclusion

Highlights:
The psychological pillar – where he emphasized the importance of putting our negative feelings on paper because it’s how we start to heal. He advised one of his patients to write a letter to her abusers: “There’s no need to pass the letter on to them, as the very act of writing is therapeutic in itself.”

The social pillar – where he describes the different types of toxic personalities, this way we can surround ourselves with the right people and set limits on the wrong ones so they don’t drain our energy. “No one is immune from being an energy vampire for the people they come into contact with.”

The best part about this book is practical approach and accessibility. The language is simple and to the point and avoids complicated jargon. He communicates his ideas clearly and directly, making it easy for readers to apply the principles in their daily lives. He also uses figures to make his point and speaks directly to the readers, calling them ‘survivalists.’

Overall, “How To Master Your Emotions” is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their emotional intelligence and achieve greater emotional well-being. Whether you are grappling with stress, anxiety, or simply seeking personal growth, Richard Rokicki’s insights offer a thoughtful and practical guide to mastering your emotions. It is recommended for readers interested in personal development, counseling, and overall mental health.

“This book aims to give you the answers and methods you need to restore a sense of calm within yourself and regain solid self-confidence.”

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

The Power of Tapping: Donna Eden and David Feinstein’s Approach to Energy Medicine

‘Tapping: Self-Healing with the Transformative Power of Energy Psychology’ is the new book by David Feinstein PhD and Donna Eden. Photo: Amazon

Donna Eden is the author of “Energy Medicine,” has treated over 10,000 individual clients, and has taught hundreds of classes, speaking to standing-room-only audiences throughout the United States, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and South America. Since childhood, she’s been able to perceive the body’s subtle energies and now works with those energies to heal others and to teach others how to work with them. David Feinstein, PhD, a clinical psychologist, has served on the faculty of The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and has received nine national awards for his books on consciousness and healing. Together, they have written “Tapping: Self-Healing with the Transformative Power of Energy Psychology.” (Sounds True, 2024)

In “Tapping,” Eden and Feinstein detail the procedures that signal your nervous system to reduce fear, anger, stress, and grief while activating brain regions involved with problem-solving and managing emotions. The goal is to help you find inner balance and take charge of the internal models that govern your life. Physically tapping energy points on your skin while bringing problems and goals to mind changes the brain in ways that help to overcome those challenges and support those aspirations. This stimulating practice places an astonishingly effective tool into your own hands. The approach is as deceptively simple as it is potently effective. 

Through their extensive research and field-tested refinements on this method, Eden and Feinstein have emerged as top experts on this approach for self-development—combining the verified effectiveness of tapping with the best practices of psychotherapy. “Tapping” is an unprecedented resource for self-care and personal growth.

Juicing Made Simple: A Review of ‘The Complete Diabetic Juicing Cookbook for Beginners’

“The Complete Diabetic Juicing Cookbook for Beginners” is the ultimate guide to better health and weight management. Photo: Amazon

Evelyn Roux is a nutritionist and dietician with over 15 years of experience helping busy moms navigate the world of nutrition and wellness. With a diploma in nutrition and food science, she honed her skills and knowledge in creating practical, family-friendly meal plans and strategies that fit seamlessly into hectic lifestyles. Her passion for nutrition began after watching her mom struggle for years to control her weight. Her book new book “The Complete Juicing Cookbook for Beginners: Your Essential Guide to Delicious, Low-Sugar Juice Recipes to Manage Blood Sugar and Achieve Your Weight Goals” empowers readers to take control of their health without sacrificing the joy of delicious drinks. (Amazon, 2024)

“The Complete Juicing Cookbook for Beginners” is an indispensable guide for anyone needing information about diabetes management while seeking nutritious, delicious juice options. It introduces you to the power of juicing that can help you “fuel your body, stabilize your blood sugar, and revitalize your health.” The author begins with outlining the different types of diabetes, the impact that commercial juices have on blood sugar levels, and the benefits of low sugar juicing. Along with recipes, she gives information on how to choose the right equipment, how to prepare the ingredients, and choosing the right juice to fit your lifestyle.

The recipes are thoughtfully put together to include low-glycemic fruits and vegetables, ensuring they won’t cause sudden spikes in blood sugar. From refreshing citrus blends to vibrant green juices packed with antioxidants, each recipe is easy to follow, accompanied by nutritional information per serving.

The book is divided into 17 chapters that include:

Introduction
Understanding Diabetes and Juicing
Benefits of Low-Sugar Juicing
Top Ingredients to Juice
Some Juicing Guidelines
Detoxifying Juice Recipes
Morning Juice Recipes
Post-Workout Juice Recipes
Soothing Evening Blends
Gut Health Juice Recipes
Chia Juice Blends
Nut Milk Juices
Nutritional Information Charts
Measurement Conversion Chart
Common Questions About Juicing for Diabetics
Conclusion
What to Do With Your Juicer Pulp

Overall, Roux emphasizes the versatility of juicing as part of a balanced diabetic diet, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned juicers alike. As someone who is conscious about reducing waste in the kitchen, I especially appreciate the chapter on what to do with the juicer pulp, which includes recipes for making smoothies, baby food, pet food, compost, veggie burgers, broth, and popsicles. Whether you’re looking to kickstart your mornings with a nutritious juice or incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet, “The Complete Diabetic Juicing Cookbook for Beginners” offers a wide variety of options. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their health through mindful juicing practices.

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

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Navigating ‘Escape the Meatrix’: A Book Review

‘Escape the Meatrix’ is the thought provoking and inspiring book by Stuart Waldner. Photo: Amazon

Stuart Waldner didn’t set out to be an activist. After two decades of exploring Earth’s greatest wonders and connecting with sacred sites around the globe, he transitioned to a plant-based lifestyle in 2008. The better he felt, and the more he learned about the statistical connections between our dietary choices and the worldwide crises we’re about to face, the more he felt called to wake people up—for our health and for the planet. His book “Escape the Meatrix” chronicles his eye-opening battle against climate change as he exposes the real reason veggies are more expensive than a burger (it’s not what you think); the shocking list of diseases that a plant-based lifestyle can slow, prevent, or even cure; and how America’s declining health is linked directly to corporate profit. (Amazon, 2024)

“Escape the Meatrix” – What if you suddenly discovered you were trapped inside a dystopian cult of oppression, murder, and profit—and that your greatest source of calories was an artificially invented diet created by powerful lobbies, designed to line the pockets of the 1% at the cost of your own health and the planet’s very survival? What would you do?

We might not like the truth, but the cost of ignorance is far too high. Will you take the blue pill and let the planet burn? Or will you take the red pill, open this book, and Escape the Meatrix?

“Escape the Meatrix” is a thought-provoking and timely exploration of our current industrial food system. Drawing parallels to the famous “Matrix” film series, Waldner challenges readers to awaken from a metaphorical slumber induced by mass-produced, factory-farmed food. He exposes the environmental, ethical, and health implications of industrial agriculture, urging readers to question the origins and impacts of their food choices.

Chapters include:
Chapter 1: What Is the Meatrix?
Chapter 2: Out of Sight, Out of Mind
Chapter 3: Escape the Meatrix for Your Health
Chapter 4: Escape the Meatrix for the Planet
Chapter 5:Escape the Meatrix for the Animals
Chapter 6: Speciesism
Chapter 7: The Cult of the Meatrix
Chapter 8: Isn’t Veganism Extreme?
Chapter 9: Tradition, Taste, and Convenience?
Chapter 10: Cognitive Dissonance
Chapter 11: The USDA Dietary Guidelines
Chapter 12: The Meat Myth: Marketing and Low Prices
Chapter 13: Feel Great!
Chapter 14: Making the Transition
Conclusion: Finally…Highlighting the Basics
Acknowledgements
Appendix: The Five Fundamentals for a Successful Transition to a Whole-Foods, Plant-Based Lifestyle

The author’s writing style is simple yet profound, and includes hard-hitting facts and statistics. He manages to convey complex issues surrounding food production and consumption in a way that is engaging and understandable for readers of all ages. It serves as a powerful call to action, encouraging readers to seek out sustainable and ethical alternatives to conventional food practices. By empowering individuals to make informed decisions about what they eat he highlights the importance of supporting local farmers and advocating for animal welfare.

Overall, “Escape the Meatrix” is a compelling read that challenges its audience to reconsider their relationship with food and take steps towards a more sustainable future. It is recommended for readers interested in learning more about the benefits of a plant-based diet, as well as wellness, recycling, conservation, and sustainability.

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

Rating: 4 out of 5.

The Ultimate Guide to Castor Oil: Reviewing Kim Lewitt’s ‘The Castor Oil Bible’

‘The Castor Oil Bible’ contains time-tested remedies to address a wide variety of health conditions. Photo: Amazon

If you’ve found yourself intrigued by the huge potential of castor oil to transform your health and are eager to absorb more knowledge and integrate it into your life, then you’re about to embark on an enlightening journey. “The Castor Oil Bible” is the definitive guide to this remarkable oil by renowned chemist Kim Lewitt. This comprehensive resource explores the science behind castor oil, empowering you to harness its incredible healing and beautifying properties with confidence. It’s not just another castor oil book; it’s a science-based roadmap to unlocking your body’s natural healing potential. (Amazon, 2024)

“The Castor Oil Bible” is grounded in rigorous scientific research, ensuring you make informed decisions about your health and beauty. It contains over 100 research-backed recipes that have been tested and proven to deliver effective results. The simple, easy-to-follow instructions and readily available ingredients make it easy to incorporate castor oil into your daily routine. The author shares her expertise, providing you with insights and tips from a trusted professional.

I had heard about castor oil before but was interested in learning more about it, particularly its uses for beauty routines. I learned so much about it, including an extensive background on the history and cultivation of castor oil. This guide is all about castor oil, highlighting its amazing benefits and different applications. Its purpose is to share the many uses and benefits of castor oil. Lewitt begins with the historical significance of castor oil, including its modern-day revival in natural wellness practices. She then explores the extensive uses of castor oil, from skincare and haircare to digestive health and beyond. Skillfully blending scientific research with practical advice, this book is accessible to both new users and seasoned enthusiasts.

What I liked most about “The Castor Oil Bible” is its holistic approach to health and well-being. It covers the spiritual and emotional aspects of castor oil, acknowledging its role in holistic healing practices worldwide.The bulk of the book features easy-to-follow recipes and DIY remedies, empowering readers to incorporate castor oil into their daily routines. The writing style is engaging and authoritative, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in natural health remedies.

The book is divided into several chapters including:

Introduction
Properties and Storage of Castor Oil
Modern Evolution
The Benefits of Castor Oil: Scientific Studies on Castor Oil
Precautions and Safety Tips when Using Castor Oil
Introduction to Recipes
Chapter 4: Beauty Recipes
Health and Wellness Recipes
Relaxation and Stress Relief Recipes
Advanced Recipes
Castor Oil for Babies and Children
Castor Oil for Men’s Grooming
Castor Oil for Oral Health
Buying Castor Oil
Conclusion: Future of Castor Oil
Glossary of Technical Terms
References
Bonus

Overall, “The Castor Oil Bible” is a must-have resource for anyone seeking to take advantage of the power of this versatile oil for improved health and vitality. Kim Lewitt’s expertise, combined with her passion for natural wellness, makes this book an invaluable addition to any home library. Pick up your copy today and start reaping the benefits of this versatile natural oil.

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

Rating: 5 out of 5.

New children’s book: ‘Chilla Gorilla & Lanky Lemur Journey to the Heart’

‘Chilla Gorilla & Lanky Lemur Journey to the Heart’ is the new children’s book by Kimberly Snyder and Jon Bier. Photo: Amazon

Children’s books hold an enchanting power, transporting young minds to realms of imagination and wonder. With vibrant illustrations and captivating stories, they weave magical tales that ignite curiosity and nurture creativity, instilling a lifelong passions for reading. They teach valuable lessons about friendship, bravery, and kindness, fostering empathy and understanding. Whether exploring fantastical worlds or navigating everyday challenges, children’s books spark joy and inspire dreams, laying the foundation for a lifetime love affair with literature and the boundless realms of imagination.

The new children’s book “Chilla Gorilla and Lanky Lemur Journey to the Heart” is an endearing adventure that helps everyone navigate big feelings while discovering inner peace. (Jack Taylor PR, 2024)

In this enlightening and playful story by New York Times best-selling author Kimberly Snyder and Jon Bier, wise old Chilla Gorilla teaches his young friend Lanky Lemur how to use his heart’s wisdom to transcend intense emotions, such as frustration, anger, and fear, in order to experience harmony, tranquility, and joy.

Reading Age: 3 – 8 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 3

Topics include:

Heart Coherence and Meditation for Kids:

  • The one simple saying that can help kids navigate big feelings
  • Simple tips to teach children to meditate
  • Meditation can be FUN: Six tips to help your kids be mindful but have fun while doing it

Heart-Based Living and Family Wellness:

  • What is heart-based living, and why is it so needed today?
  • The beauty in slowing down: tips for creating a sense of calm and relaxation for the whole family
  • Simple everyday ways to increase PEACE and JOY in your family

Starting Meditation for Kids:

  • At what age should kids start to meditate?
  • Why has meditation been so challenging, and how does Chilla teach differently and more effectively?

About the authors:
Kimberly Snyder is a multiple-time New York Times bestselling author, spiritual and meditation teacher, international speaker, nutritionist, and holistic wellness expert. She has authored six books, which have been translated into several languages, including “Radical Beauty,” which she co-authored with Deepak Chopra, and “You Are More Than You Think You Are: Practical Enlightenment for Everyday Life.”

Jon Bier is a serial entrepreneur, strategist, angel investor, and Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Jack Taylor, a full-service public relations and communications agency. Jon is a bar-admitted, non-practicing attorney who lives in California and Hawaii with his wife, Kimberly, and their two boys.

Explore Tranquility and Creativity with ‘Bold & Easy Coloring Book’ | Review

‘Bold & Easy Coloring Book’ is fun for adults and kids. Photo: Amazon

Coloring books offer a serene escape into a world of tranquility and creativity. They allow for creative expression without pressure and provide a mindful reprieve from the chaos of daily life. Engaging in the simple act of coloring promotes focus and mindfulness, allowing worries to melt away as strokes of color fill the page and fostering a sense of calm and relaxation. Through the gentle rhythm of coloring, stress dissipates, leaving behind a peaceful mind and rejuvenated spirit. In this meditative journey, the canvas becomes a sanctuary for self-expression and inner peace. With a wide variety of themes available, from intricate mandalas to whimsical animals, these books cater to many tastes and can be enjoyed for short bursts or longer sessions.

Coloring books for relaxation and mindfulness activities have surged in popularity in recent years as a simple and effective way to unwind. The repetitive motions of coloring and the focus required to stay within the lines can induce a meditative state, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

“Bold & Easy Coloring Book” by Inkers Fun contains large print designs that both adults and children can enjoy, but the thick lines are suitable for beginners. The theme is ‘Food & Snacks’ and it features 50 food and snack images. On one page is the numbered image with a description and the image to be colored is on the opposite page. I like that the description guides us regarding which colors to use, for example, image 34 “A bottle of refreshing water with lemon slices and mint leaves” Of course, they’re just suggestions, you can always be an original and use unique colors. The designs are big so it doesn’t take too long to finish. The blank pages at the end are an excellent way to make sure the color ink doesn’t bleed through, just cut and place the page behind the design you’re working on. The overall size is not too big or bulky, making it easy to handle, especially if children are using it.

Overall, this “Bold & Easy Coloring Book” is an excellent way to relax and be creative, regardless of age. So next time you need a break from the daily grind, grab some crayons, or markers, and let your worries melt away. Hopefully, it won’t make you hungry looking at all those snacks.

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

Rating: 5 out of 5.