Mind Over Medicine

Book Review-

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Dr. Lissa Rankin’s latest book, Mind over Medicine. It is such a welcomed departure from what we have come to know and expect from the medical professionals whom we turn to when our bodies aren’t well. This book is unlike any other that I have read. Dr.  Rankin quickly reverses roles and places the healing back in the hands, or better yet, the mind of the patient, which is where she believes traditional medicine has gotten it all wrong. Dr. Rankin wants the patient to be the leader in their healing process, because as she says, nobody knows your body better than you. The purpose of the doctor then, is to help you get to the root of what is causing disease or pain in your life. She does not focus simply on the physical or pharmaceutical treatments that we have come to accept and depend on when seeking medical treatment. If you need surgery or tests ordered, she will do that, but she believes that the doctor shouldn't just start or stop there, not by a long shot.

In Mind over Medicine, Dr. Rankin will help lead you on an inner healing journey where you ask yourself important questions. It’s not just whether or not you are feeling chest pain, or other symptoms, she wants you to ask yourself, are you happy at your job? Are you happy in your current relationship? Do you feel the pain mostly during certain times, for example, when your boss is hovering over you, or when your partner is being demeaning and making you feel uncomfortable?

The main point that I took from this book is in regards to the relaxation or stress response. Are your life choices mostly eliciting the relaxation response or is it causing your system to constantly be on high alert and thusly, keeping your stress response turned on--which has the potential to lead to dis-ease and dis-comfort. So then, Mind over Medicine, is about getting to the root causes behind the imbalances, behind the stress, behind the discomfort. So that you can do more than put Band-Aids over your wounds, but you can begin to get to the root cause of the issues. With the awareness of yourself and the choices that you make daily, you can begin tuning in to your intuition, or your Inner Pilot, as Dr. Rankin calls it.  You can begin creating a life that fosters health on all fronts and aligns with your true self, balancing all of your needs, physical, spiritual, creativity, sexuality, right livelihood, and so forth. I recommend this book fully.

This book was provided to me for free from Hay House to review. This review is based on my opinions of the material.

 

 

 

Work that doesn't work

Recently I had a run-in,  oops… I meant opportunity with a temporary employment agency. As I took the last of the seven tests that they so graciously emailed to me so that they could test my skills, (ah…and yet they still don’t know what I'm capable of)… I felt exhausted and drained.  The next day, as I arrived for my interview and to register with this nationally known employment agency, I sighed as I signed my life, I mean my name with blood, excuse me, ink.. .on the “book” that they had me complete—I was rewarded with an instant interview appointment with a client who wanted to see me the next morning.

So, the next morning I leave an hour early to go find this office, in an area that I am not familiar. Only to get lost and after trying and failing to locate the office, I call the agency and explain that I couldn’t find it. Now, by this time, I am 2 minutes late, for said precious interview.

The lady at the agency was so cold. I had to say, “Hello” several times, as she silently melted the phone as she fumed in disgust at the potential client that I may or may not have lost them. She showed no concern that I travelled quite a distance for this interview, nor that I was lost. I felt generally bad about it and was disgusted with myself.  I mean, I woke up,  and had gotten dressed in an uncomfortable suit…and all awhile I am thinking and feeling like an idiot dressed this way, but this is what you are supposed to do right? POWER- suit it up. I felt like a walking manikin.

Waste my gas; waste my time, and my faithful recruiter showed not even one sign of sympathy. This work doesn’t work for me. I don’t want to be stuffed into the sleeves of a faceless, mock-person outfit. I don’t want to work for or with people who should have a heart, but they don’t.

So what will it take for me to stop it? Stop looking for and doing work that doesn’t work, and just say Fuck It! I am only good at like a few things, (things that I am passionate about)… and yet, none of what I am good at is posted in the help wanted pages. But, ah….a girl has to eat right? A girl likes to eat too!

I have a glimpse of knowing happening here…I have an inner sense, that what I need is already here.  Is it foolish to think that the work will find me? The opportunities and connections will align themselves gently and rightly? Well, I feel something here, and I like it. And screw that mean lady!

 

Hey there, I wanted to put a golden nugget in your pocket. There is a book that I am currently reading, which is a game-changer, not only for the health-care reform field, but also for our evolution as individuals and how we relate to ourselves as well as those around us. Dr. Lissa Rankin's latest book, "Mind over Medicine" has been a welcomed joy ride into what I have always felt deep inside, but never had the words-- and certainly not a medical doctors words to describe it. The book is thoughtfully written in such an honest and vulnerable way, that I am certain that most of us have never come across any thing like it. I will post a link to the book, as well as to her website. I am also sharing  a comment I left on her blog....very thought-provoking topic!

My comment to her blog post titled; "You've already arrived, Darling!"

You can also read it down below.

http://lissarankin.com/youve-already-arrived-darling?inf_contact_key=e6af54ca241d71daebda5c240ead57bc01ccbe9dd9ac8fa573d131fced1094cf

Book Link-Mind Over Medicine

http://www.amazon.com/Mind-Over-Medicine-Scientific-Yourself/dp/1401939988/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368727725&sr=8-1&keywords=mind+over+medicine



"You've already arrived, Darling!"

If our visionaries knew that they've already, fully arrived...then they'd be even more affective as crusaders, because beyond their message of veganism, or saving the planet, or health-care reform...is the love that they wish to allow to flow freely and intimately within themselves...which chooses to manifest itself in whatever cause they are most passionate.

 

What makes our visionaries sparkle... are the glimpses of light that they have allowed to settle deep into the cushions of their souls. What ignites them, and attracts us to follow them, is their reminder to us, that the light shines within us as well. When ego steps in, and it usually does...we feel disconnect. Disconnect from them, disconnect from their message, and more confusion than we did before. The same disconnect that we feel in our own lives when we tussle with our ego's, showcases itself on the big screen of our visionaries--twirling its dirty fingernail in our face. When feelings of lack or insecurity bubble up within any of us---our reliable ole' pal "mr. Ego"...gladly steps in, as usual to save the day.

 

In Elkhart Tolle's book, "A New Earth", he talks about Frequency-Holders. Basically, there's a small portion of folks whose outward desire to create and save the world isn't activated in a prominent way. They seek to show success through the daily rituals of living, and the outer appearance of materialism and rewards is a nice gesture, but not necessary.

 

My hope, is that our visionaries practice consciously being frequency-holders more often. As they use their outward desire to create form...to remember the root of their desires ( to experience and help facilitate others to experience presence) and to hold it up in the face of an ego-oriented society. Easier said than done, thanks to the um....."good one and bad one" within us all.

 

Before I part, I would like to say, that you bring up some of the most fascinating, (as in vulnerable and down n dirty honest, LOL) information that is out there. Keep up the good work! I am currently reading your book and loving it.

 

Take sweet care,

 

T. L. Parks

The Importance of Being Extraordinary

In Dr. Wayne Dyer’s and Eckhart Tolle’s, “The Importance of Being Extraordinary”, 2-CD set, featuring a live lecture between these two spiritually influential speakers, you will be delighted by their light-hearted, honest approach towards sharing themselves and their message.

It is almost like something that you would have imagined in your mind…having the opportunity to eavesdrop on these two great thinkers, and being able to absorb their energy and their deep insights. This CD combo does just that—except they have invited us all to their table, to listen and take part in the magic that happens when two of the world’s greatest spiritual teachers sit down to talk.

The message is simple yet profound. It reminds us of how and why we have all clung to role of “ordinary” so hard and for so long. As they discuss the importance of being instead of doing, and why you owe it to yourself to seek your highest self and to bring it into expression. I loved the sense of humor that the two displayed, as they laughed and joked, which in itself is also a gift. So put it in your car, listen to it and enjoy!

Hay House offered me this item for review purposes.

F**K It Therapy

F**K It Therapy by John C. Parkin is a very refreshing read. It is a down-to-earth, honest book, that does not miss it’s chance to empower you and provoke deep change.

During and after reading this book…and taking in it’s messages about how stressed we are about EVERYTHING, you will begin to see in your own life just how much we have all created a heaviness and seriousness within our lives that does not serve us. Working harder for more and then complaining and struggling, OR deciding just what “IT” is supposed to look like and be, and then living out our lives battling with the ideals that we have created when they don’t live up to what we imagine.

This book does a great job of outlining just how we got this way—taking in and listening to the messages of authority figures, media and so forth, who most likely were dealing with their own warped view of what “IT” is supposed to look like, and because of our fears and lack of self-worth, we bought into it hook, line and sinker.

We are so hard on ourselves (and others) and measure things based off our perceived notions of how they are supposed to be, do or think. What are your authentic thoughts?  When is the last time you embraced that “This too shall pass?” That is what this book brings to light. The prison metaphors are unique and delightful and you will undoubtedly find which prison block you reside in. John and his wife Gaia do a fantastic job of delivering a soul-message that reminds us to call back into our lives some of the freedom that we had in our youth. Life is serious, yes. But sometimes you just need to say F**K It, and relax and let it flow. By loosening the chains that bind, you may find that you ultimately find the balance and peace of mind to actually live a fulfilling, less stressed and happier life. 

This book was provided to me for free for my honest review from Hay House Publishing.

Perfect daily Storms...

I recently had a situation, or shall I say I created a situation with my car…that has caused me stress, embarrassment and a lot of unexpected expenses.

If it doesn’t fit, don’t force it. That’s what they say right? Well, hopefully I will remember that the next time. Last week, I packed up my things, (and my doggie) to go visit a friend. The Michigan weather is cold, snowy, slushy and not the best travel weather.

Feeling like I needed to get away, I packed up…my mind lost in a web of to-do’s, and should have’s, and what-if’s…and “what the hell am I gonna do now.” Unfocused, or unconscious…whatever you want to call it, I pulled up into the gas station and proceeded to fill my gas tank with diesel fuel instead of the unleaded gas. I ignored all of the “signs that something was wrong”…it was cold, and my mind was elsewhere and so I proceeded to pump the gas. I felt disillusioned. I knew something felt “off”, but I just couldn’t figure it out. The nozzle didn’t fit properly, so I just let the fuel slowly seep in…there wasn’t a place where you could select which grade of gas to use, but I ignored it.

One thing I must say, from what I have read and heard from others. Once I put that diesel fuel in my car, I should have probably made it about a few blocks and stalled out, which would have been devastating. But instead, my car drove smoothly for 45 miles and I parked safely at my friend’s house with no problems. While driving, I kept thinking to myself…what the hell just happened? But since the car wasn’t showing any signs of trouble, I figured that everything was okay. That was until the next day when the vehicle would no longer start and I had to have it towed and incurred an expense that I really wasn’t prepared for.

It didn’t fit, but I forced it. Is this something that I need to look at in my life? What other areas don’t fit, but I am forcing it? What other areas, people, places and things am I numbingly, unconsciously puttering along to?

I was then told that the repair would cost about 3 times as much of what I actually ended up paying. I called a few shops and I was considering taking a loss on the car since it is an older car. But something said, call one more place. If everyone says that the car should have died out in just a few blocks but you made it safely for miles, perhaps it is not a complete loss and perhaps someone will help you for a much more reasonable price.

I called one more shop. The guy sounded nice and friendly. He gave me a quote and arranged for the car to be towed. End result: The car works fine, and it wasn’t nearly as expensive as it could have been.

I see what living in a cloud can do. But I also realize that there are bigger forces at play. Lesson learned.

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I have a tendency to give things away. Is this simply because I am a giver? Or is it because I am trying to buy and barter my way to love? The answer: Maybe it is a bit of both.

I do know that I feel joy when I am able to make someone smile. I also know that sometimes I feel empty when I feel that someone should be there for me, and for whatever reason—they are not. So, this is another area for me to get real and honest with. No one is going to do everything the way that you would want him or her to. But you should feel loved and appreciated by those you spend your time with, a mutual growing and affection. If you keep coming up feeling empty, then maybe it is time to take a look at the company you are keeping.

Sometimes people think that kindness is weakness. But I am grateful because I know in my heart that I will always have what I need. I will always be blessed with beauty…because beauty is everywhere! In a smile... in openness and vulnerability. At thrift shops, stores, and yard sales or on curbs.  I think that just about all animals have the potential to light my fire--such sweet beings. I will continue to give. But I will also make sure that I am surrounding myself with those who can appreciate the simple things. Honor and respect for self and others. Honor. Respect.

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Gratitude. There is no place like home. Sometimes I feel that I just need to get away. The squeaky wooden floors at home start to irritate me, or the toilet that sometimes runs is another annoyance.

But home is where the heart is.

When I return home after being away. The squeaky floors remind me of their story. Of families living there, kids running and playing…of me laid out on the area rug playing tug with my dog. I remember how they look when they are clean. I see the dust bunnies. (I’ll clean it later)

As for the runny toilet…you know it really just wants to be “handled” right…. (pun intended).

Life is good. Lessons are being learned. Toilets are running. Cars are running off the wrong fuel, people too. All of these perfect daily storms, opportunities with messages delivered to us, leading us and guiding us to be grateful for life and to appreciate it exactly as it comes.

I bid you peace,  Luv & Light!

T.L. Parks

The Mystic Cookbook

The Mystic Cookbook is a great read for those who love reading cookbooks for more than just the recipes, and who also enjoy learning more about the authors—about their past, and the stories that led them to write this book at this time. Denise and Meadow Linn offer a wonderful opportunity to make a connection through our universal love of, and need for this physical sustenance we call food. It will not only inspire you to try the recipes, but will remind you of the sacred art of food, as well as the pleasure that comes with it.

The recipes are simple, some ethnic, and all appealing. But none so difficult to be intimidating, because that would just not be the mystic’s way, now would it?

 In our society, so caught up on carbs, proteins, fats…this diet plan, or that one…this book touches upon a much more simpler need, that has been lost, or ignored in our mainstream society. It reminds us of the energy that is within us and in all things, and it also encourages us to make connections with the food that we eat in a way that is enjoyable and graceful. It removes the insanity of incessant thinking about ratios and right and wrong, and instead focuses on a gentler approach.

Where does the food come from? How was it prepared? Was it prepared with love and care or pain and neglect? Reminding us that we should seek to know where our food comes from, and to the best of our ability aim to obtain food from reliable sources.

Also, in food preparation, in our day and age of fast-food, drive-thru dinners…what are we eating? Are we eating the harried, fast paced energy that went into that food?

I say Thank You for those who still take the time to grow and produce quality food in a way that is humane and sustainable. And Thank You, for those who take the time to infuse their food with love when preparing meals.  As I prepare my own food for myself and loved ones I will  remember to use this precious time as a way to invite love into my kitchen and into my life.