I have found a good way to encourage mental discipline is by meditating on a simple, everyday object, such as a pen. Place the object at a comfortable distance in front of you and gently focus your eyes on it.
If you become distracted, refocus your awareness on the object. In future meditations, apply what you have learned about ignoring your mind's attempts to distract you.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Being Fully Alive
"People say that what we are all seeking is a meaning for life. I think that what we are all REALLY seeking is an experience of being ALIVE, so that our life experiences on the purely physical plane will have resonance within our innermost being and reality, so that we can actually feel the rapture of being fully alive."
Joseph Campbell
Joseph Campbell
REFRAMING: Eliminating Excuses and Resolving Inner Conflicts-- #4
CONFLICT: "Life is too short to be in the gym all the time."
SOLUTION: Your life may really be short if you don't take care of your health. Who told you that you had to be in the gym all of the time? Maybe you just haven't learned how to train in a time-efficient manner yet. You can save time by doing your training at home.
SOLUTION: Your life may really be short if you don't take care of your health. Who told you that you had to be in the gym all of the time? Maybe you just haven't learned how to train in a time-efficient manner yet. You can save time by doing your training at home.
Monday, March 30, 2009
New S.I.H. students completing coursework
This past Friday, March 27th, two more attendees completed their 10 hour coursework requirement to obtain certification through the American Board of Clinical Hypnotherapy. They are William Weisner, Ph.D., and Karen A. Solomon, LCSW. Both now have to complete their final examination and practical to obtain their Clinical Hypnotherapy certification through ABCH.
Another certification seminar is scheduled for May 1, 2009 here at my office at 414 Main Street, Suite 204, Port Jefferson Village. The seminar begins at 7:30 am and will end at 6pm. Please visit the Suffolk Institute for Hypnotherapy web page at www.SIHonline.net where you can enroll in this seminar or any other seminar and also find out any information about the seminar.
Another certification seminar is scheduled for May 1, 2009 here at my office at 414 Main Street, Suite 204, Port Jefferson Village. The seminar begins at 7:30 am and will end at 6pm. Please visit the Suffolk Institute for Hypnotherapy web page at www.SIHonline.net where you can enroll in this seminar or any other seminar and also find out any information about the seminar.
REFRAMING: Eliminating Excuses and Resolving Inner Conflicts-- #3
CONFLICT: "I'll never lose weight because of my genetics."
SOLUTION: Genetics do not stop you from losing weight unless a genetic predisposition meets a sedentary lifestyle and unsupportive environment. You simply haven't made all the necessary improvements to your environment and lifestyle yet.
SOLUTION: Genetics do not stop you from losing weight unless a genetic predisposition meets a sedentary lifestyle and unsupportive environment. You simply haven't made all the necessary improvements to your environment and lifestyle yet.
Friday, March 27, 2009
A Well Known Zen Lesson on Death
A Man walking across a field encountered a tiger. He fled, the tiger chasing after him. Coming to a cliff, he caught hold of a wild vine and swung himself over the edge. The tiger sniffed at him from above. Terrified, the man looked down to where, far below, another tiger had come, waiting for him to fall and eat him. Two mice, one black and the other white, little by little, began to gnaw away at the vine. The man saw a luscious strawberry near him. Grasping at the vine with one hand, he plucked the strawberry with the other. How sweet it tasted!
Zen Parable
Zen Parable
REFRAMING: Eliminating Excuses and Resolving Inner Conflicts-- #2
CONFLICT: I have to give up all the foods that I love.
SOLUTION: Where in the world did you get that idea? You can eat chocolate, ice cream, pizza or whatever else you want as long as you eat these foods infrequently and in small amounts. The only thing you have to give up is eating more calories than you need.
SOLUTION: Where in the world did you get that idea? You can eat chocolate, ice cream, pizza or whatever else you want as long as you eat these foods infrequently and in small amounts. The only thing you have to give up is eating more calories than you need.
Focusing the Lens
We are indeed limited, but we can push back the borders of our limitations. As understanding of the principles of our growth enables us to search out correct principles with the confidence that the more we learn, the more clearly we can focus the lens by which we see the world.
The principles don't change--our understanding of them does.
The principles don't change--our understanding of them does.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
A Thief in my Own Waiting Room
Yesterday I was feeling wounded that a patient of mine would take something from my waiting room that was clearly marked "Please do not remove from waiting area, thank you." It is a strange feeling to me that someone who is coming to me for psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, hypnosis, or any of my other services would do this to me.
I do not know which day this occured as I happened to notice it yesterday.
Colleagues of mine have suggested that I do not take this personally, but, I do not know any other way this can be looked at. It's not that I share office space with any other professional. It's not that my waiting room is accessible to the general public.
I know that the person who has taken what belongs to me is struggling. But, I feel sad that they would choose to do this to me.
I do not know which day this occured as I happened to notice it yesterday.
Colleagues of mine have suggested that I do not take this personally, but, I do not know any other way this can be looked at. It's not that I share office space with any other professional. It's not that my waiting room is accessible to the general public.
I know that the person who has taken what belongs to me is struggling. But, I feel sad that they would choose to do this to me.
REFRAMING: Eliminating Excuses and Resolving Inner Conflicts-- #1
This is a new series. It is based on NLP theory, techniques, and strategies.
Inner conflicts often show up in the form of procrastination and self-sabotage. They are then rationalized away with excuses. In reality, excuses are simply habitual ways of thinking that you have never challenged. If we were all as creative in coming up with solutions as we are at coming up with excuses, there would be a lot fewer problems in the world.
Reframing can help you eliminate excuses by shifting your thoughts toward personal responsibility, possibility, choice, and win-win scenarios. If you get creative with reframing, you may find yourself laughing, because these old worn out excuses begin to look ridiculous!
#1 Conflict: "I have no time"
SOLUTION: You really have all the time there is-twenty-four hours a day-the same amount as Bill Gates, Richard Branson, and Warren Buffett. It's the same amount of time as anyone else that has ever lived. It's not that you don't have enough time, you simply haven't chosen your priorities or put them into the proper order yet.
Inner conflicts often show up in the form of procrastination and self-sabotage. They are then rationalized away with excuses. In reality, excuses are simply habitual ways of thinking that you have never challenged. If we were all as creative in coming up with solutions as we are at coming up with excuses, there would be a lot fewer problems in the world.
Reframing can help you eliminate excuses by shifting your thoughts toward personal responsibility, possibility, choice, and win-win scenarios. If you get creative with reframing, you may find yourself laughing, because these old worn out excuses begin to look ridiculous!
#1 Conflict: "I have no time"
SOLUTION: You really have all the time there is-twenty-four hours a day-the same amount as Bill Gates, Richard Branson, and Warren Buffett. It's the same amount of time as anyone else that has ever lived. It's not that you don't have enough time, you simply haven't chosen your priorities or put them into the proper order yet.
Attachment to what is familiar
Our own attachments to what we are familiar with can keep us from moving forward in our lives. Moving into new areas of experience necessitates experimenting and recombining the known. If we want to swim in the water we have to leave the safety of the diving board.
It is fear that stands in our way so often. This can not only be fear of the unknown, but fear of loss. Even if we desire to move through and beyond a stage or a circumstance in our lives moving beyond is still a loss of the known. We need to place our faith in the unseen.
We need to be willing to lose something that feels familiar.
"All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy, for what we leave behind is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life because we enter into another."
Anatole France
It is fear that stands in our way so often. This can not only be fear of the unknown, but fear of loss. Even if we desire to move through and beyond a stage or a circumstance in our lives moving beyond is still a loss of the known. We need to place our faith in the unseen.
We need to be willing to lose something that feels familiar.
"All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy, for what we leave behind is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life because we enter into another."
Anatole France
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Another GOJI success story!
There is a dude at the gym that tends to ask me for free advice about proper training techniques and nutrition. I really don't mind as long as it's not a long conversation. He asked me about his chronic arthritis and I suggested to him that he try drinking the GOJI juice and told him of my tremendous success with the juice.
I saw him today and he informed me that his arthritis is almost completely gone and he is enjoying the juice. Another GOJI devotee! He purchased another two bottles from me today.
Those of you who know me are aware of my tendency to be quite skeptical about health claims and magical cures. This stuff is the real deal. (Read my GOJI story on this blog dated 11/18/08.)
GOJI juice can be purchased by contacting Dr. Crew at 880-2531.
I saw him today and he informed me that his arthritis is almost completely gone and he is enjoying the juice. Another GOJI devotee! He purchased another two bottles from me today.
Those of you who know me are aware of my tendency to be quite skeptical about health claims and magical cures. This stuff is the real deal. (Read my GOJI story on this blog dated 11/18/08.)
GOJI juice can be purchased by contacting Dr. Crew at 880-2531.
Surrender
We need to master the lessons of our present circumstances. We do not move forward by resisting what is undesirable. We move forward, we grow, we change through acceptance.
We are each in our present circumstances for a reason. There is a lesson, a very valuable lesson that must be learned before we can move forward. Something important is being worked out in us, and in those around us. We may not be able to identify it at this moment, but we can know that it is important.
Overcome not by force, but by surrender. The battle is won, and fought, within ourselves. We must go through it until we learn, until we accept, until we become grateful, until we are set free.
We are each in our present circumstances for a reason. There is a lesson, a very valuable lesson that must be learned before we can move forward. Something important is being worked out in us, and in those around us. We may not be able to identify it at this moment, but we can know that it is important.
Overcome not by force, but by surrender. The battle is won, and fought, within ourselves. We must go through it until we learn, until we accept, until we become grateful, until we are set free.
My MOM
I am worried about my Mom. It has been just over two months since my Father's death. Mom is having a great deal of difficulty adjusting to his death. They were together for over 56 years and literally spent almost every moment together. I cannot even imagine what it's like to lose a partner after so many years together. I don't even like to be away from Michael during the work day.
I see my Mom taking care of herself physically, but I am concerned that emotionally she may be struggling. Michael and I spend time with her each Saturday and I am enjoying our time together. My Mom is an amazing woman in so many ways. I have some concerns that she may become fixated in her grieving and choose on some level to play out the rest of her life as the grieving, lonely widow. I have shared my concerns with her. She is physically very well and if she decides to she can have a very different life than the one she led with my Father as she dedicated herself mostly to caring for him and meeting his needs.
I will be there for Mom whatever happens down the road. I just wish for her to see how important it is for her to take charge of her life. I love her so very much.
I believe my Mom is in the process of redefining herself as an individual human being. This is completely unknown territory for her. I am willing to be her map and fearless and loving travelling companion on her journey.
I see my Mom taking care of herself physically, but I am concerned that emotionally she may be struggling. Michael and I spend time with her each Saturday and I am enjoying our time together. My Mom is an amazing woman in so many ways. I have some concerns that she may become fixated in her grieving and choose on some level to play out the rest of her life as the grieving, lonely widow. I have shared my concerns with her. She is physically very well and if she decides to she can have a very different life than the one she led with my Father as she dedicated herself mostly to caring for him and meeting his needs.
I will be there for Mom whatever happens down the road. I just wish for her to see how important it is for her to take charge of her life. I love her so very much.
I believe my Mom is in the process of redefining herself as an individual human being. This is completely unknown territory for her. I am willing to be her map and fearless and loving travelling companion on her journey.
Step # 5: A.W.A.R.E. Formula: ESTABLISH New Beliefs About Food and the Right Reasons To Eat
One of the most powerful strategies for ending emotional eating or any other undesirable eating habit is one that few people ever consider: examine your beliefs about food and what food means to you, and if necessary, change them.
What is it that makes certain eating behaviors possible for some people but unthinkable for others? It's not that some people have superhuman willpower that lets them easily say no to every temptation. When a behavior VIOLATES one of your strongest beliefs, THERE IS NO TEMPTATION.
If you believed that your body was a divine gift would you desecrate it by poisoning it with junk food? What if you saw your body as a high-performance sports car? Do you think you might fuel it differently? If you saw your body as a fat-burning machine, how do you think affect your attitude toward training and eating mindfully? How would it change your response to adversity if you described yourself as a warrior? Most people do not realize innocent labels and nicknames can actually change behavior and mold an identity. It you're going to label yourself anyway, why not choose EMPOWERING labels?
It has been discovered that fit, lean, and healthy people have a unique set of beliefs about food and a distinct set of metaphors they use to describe food and what food is for. They are:
Food is fuel.
Food is the best medicine.
Food is construction material for my body.
Food stokes the fire of metabolism.
Fruit is nature's candy.
Lean protein is the lean muscle builder.
High-fiber foods are nature's Roto-Rooter.
When we look at food this way, food is no longer the problem. Food is the solution and you become driven to eat the right foods rather than to avoid food.
What is it that makes certain eating behaviors possible for some people but unthinkable for others? It's not that some people have superhuman willpower that lets them easily say no to every temptation. When a behavior VIOLATES one of your strongest beliefs, THERE IS NO TEMPTATION.
If you believed that your body was a divine gift would you desecrate it by poisoning it with junk food? What if you saw your body as a high-performance sports car? Do you think you might fuel it differently? If you saw your body as a fat-burning machine, how do you think affect your attitude toward training and eating mindfully? How would it change your response to adversity if you described yourself as a warrior? Most people do not realize innocent labels and nicknames can actually change behavior and mold an identity. It you're going to label yourself anyway, why not choose EMPOWERING labels?
It has been discovered that fit, lean, and healthy people have a unique set of beliefs about food and a distinct set of metaphors they use to describe food and what food is for. They are:
Food is fuel.
Food is the best medicine.
Food is construction material for my body.
Food stokes the fire of metabolism.
Fruit is nature's candy.
Lean protein is the lean muscle builder.
High-fiber foods are nature's Roto-Rooter.
When we look at food this way, food is no longer the problem. Food is the solution and you become driven to eat the right foods rather than to avoid food.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Step # 4: A.W.A.R.E. Formula: REPLACE Old Eating Habits with More Constructive Ones
There are always constructive ways to obtain or satisfy any feeling. It's NOT about the food, it's about the feeling you thought you would get from eating that food. What are you really hungry for? Companionship? Love? Happiness?
We need to understand that overeating will never make us feel good. It will make us sluggish, bloated, and guilty afterward. It isn't worth it for any short-lived relief we get. What will really make us feel good is being in control and the victory we feel from becoming fitter, healthier, and better than we were yesterday.
When you feel the temptation to feed emotional hunger, distract yourself by doing some kind of physical activity. The benefits of physical activity go way beyond just mere distraction. Physical movement and exercise might be the single best way to change how you feel because your mind and your body are interconnected. EMOTION FOLLOWS MOTION. When you decide to move your body, you will change the way you feel. The worst thing you can do is nothing.
We need to understand that overeating will never make us feel good. It will make us sluggish, bloated, and guilty afterward. It isn't worth it for any short-lived relief we get. What will really make us feel good is being in control and the victory we feel from becoming fitter, healthier, and better than we were yesterday.
When you feel the temptation to feed emotional hunger, distract yourself by doing some kind of physical activity. The benefits of physical activity go way beyond just mere distraction. Physical movement and exercise might be the single best way to change how you feel because your mind and your body are interconnected. EMOTION FOLLOWS MOTION. When you decide to move your body, you will change the way you feel. The worst thing you can do is nothing.
The Port Jefferson Gazzette
This is a brand new publication to the village. Are you ready for this concept? The entire publication is ONLY about reporting positive news and events in the village!
There are no reports of pessimism, crime, negativity or animosity. The editors of this publication feel that there are enough local and Island wide publications reporting on these news items so they are dedicated to just presenting a positive slant to the news in the village.
In this paper you will find information about plays, theatre and local events. There are announcements of marriages and engagements, information on dogs and cats that need to be adopted, and recipes. You can find health information, art exhibitions, environmental concerns, historical information, and restaurant information.
Find out more at portjeffgazzette@optonline.net
There are no reports of pessimism, crime, negativity or animosity. The editors of this publication feel that there are enough local and Island wide publications reporting on these news items so they are dedicated to just presenting a positive slant to the news in the village.
In this paper you will find information about plays, theatre and local events. There are announcements of marriages and engagements, information on dogs and cats that need to be adopted, and recipes. You can find health information, art exhibitions, environmental concerns, historical information, and restaurant information.
Find out more at portjeffgazzette@optonline.net
Unconscious Anger
This kind of anger we often use as a hiding place. Acting it out is simply another way to keep it unconscious or to not feel it. When it gets triggered, we blame others and see them as responsible for our bitterness.
Anger takes many forms--disappointment, resentment, bitterness, jealousy. When we project it mindlessly in the direction of someone else, making it about them rather than about us, we disown a piece of ourselves and lose the potential to learn about how we really feel.
We need to become more capable of owning our own anger.
"We condemn others and that very condemnation is a justification of ourselves. Without some kind of attitude whether self rightous or self abasement, what are we?"
Chogyan Trungpa
Anger takes many forms--disappointment, resentment, bitterness, jealousy. When we project it mindlessly in the direction of someone else, making it about them rather than about us, we disown a piece of ourselves and lose the potential to learn about how we really feel.
We need to become more capable of owning our own anger.
"We condemn others and that very condemnation is a justification of ourselves. Without some kind of attitude whether self rightous or self abasement, what are we?"
Chogyan Trungpa
Monday, March 23, 2009
Last chance to register for the Hypnotherapy seminar this Friday
There are just two spots remaining for (this) Friday, March 27 seminar for those seeking certification through The American Board of Clinical Hypnotherapy. This seminar is open to ALL; not just licensed Psychotherapists or Psychologists. This seminar will meet requirements for certification through ABCH as Dr. Crew is a certified Clinical Hypnotherapy trainer and educator. This is your chance to enhance your existing practice or to begin a new career!
Please contact Dr. Crew if you are interested in this certification seminar. Dr. Crew can be reached at (631) 880-2531 or at DrCrew@optonline.net.
Please contact Dr. Crew if you are interested in this certification seminar. Dr. Crew can be reached at (631) 880-2531 or at DrCrew@optonline.net.
Kindness
"This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness."
Dalai Lama
Dalai Lama
Two excellent movies
Mike and I saw two well worth watching flicks this past weekend. The first was "Religulous" by Bill Maher. If you are a fan of Maher's you will be delighted by this documentary-style look into religious beliefs. He clearly is making the statement that religion is the product of the human mind as he pushes his Atheist agenda. We love him so we enjoyed the movie.
The other movie we watched was called "Frozen River". I am not going to speak much about this movie as I think it's best to just go see it. We saw someone at a party who told us about it and it sort of took away from seeing it without knowing anything about it. We highly recommend this one. It is moving and controversial.
The other movie we watched was called "Frozen River". I am not going to speak much about this movie as I think it's best to just go see it. We saw someone at a party who told us about it and it sort of took away from seeing it without knowing anything about it. We highly recommend this one. It is moving and controversial.
Step # 3: A.W.A.R.E. Formula: ARREST the Negative Patterns when they happen
As your level of awareness increases, you will change from an unconscious eater to a conscious eater. This provides you with the opportunity to interrupt or arrest the negative eating pattern before carrying it out.
When you become aware of an urge to eat inappropriately, it's an important moment of decision. Awareness gives you the chance to have a conversation with yourself in those critical moments before you act. The important thing is to stop, pause, and think before you eat. That gives you the time to ask yourself some important questions:
Am I thinking about eating because I am physically hungry or for another reason?
If it's not for physical hunger, then why am I thinking about this?
What will be the immediate consequences if I eat this?
What will be the long-term consequences if I eat this?
Is eating this going to move me closer to or farther away from my goals?
Is eating this really worth it?
You will feel better if you eat for the right reasons and find more constructive ways to cope with your feelings.
When you become aware of an urge to eat inappropriately, it's an important moment of decision. Awareness gives you the chance to have a conversation with yourself in those critical moments before you act. The important thing is to stop, pause, and think before you eat. That gives you the time to ask yourself some important questions:
Am I thinking about eating because I am physically hungry or for another reason?
If it's not for physical hunger, then why am I thinking about this?
What will be the immediate consequences if I eat this?
What will be the long-term consequences if I eat this?
Is eating this going to move me closer to or farther away from my goals?
Is eating this really worth it?
You will feel better if you eat for the right reasons and find more constructive ways to cope with your feelings.
Who is that lunatic in the shorts at 4:30 am?
I went to Starbucks Saturday morning and Katie, one of my favorite barristas, said she saw me at 4:30am in my shorts at a Dunkin Donuts in Port Jefferson Station. She said, "Who else but crazy Dr. Crew would be in shorts at that time of the morning."
First of all, trust me when I tell you that the only reason I was not at Starbucks at 4:30 in the morning is that they are not open until 5:30 am, and I have to suffer through Dunkin Donuts coffee to get to the gym by 5am. But, I digress. Then I realized that it is kind of nutty to wear shorts going to the gym at that time of the morning. It really is just my own laziness that I don't put on my tear away windpants over my shorts. When you do what I do for a living you really don't want to ever be described as "crazy" before your name. Eccentric, yes! But crazy, NO! So, I thought I'd really need to stop being lazy and put on my sweatpants before heading out the door at 4:30 AM each day. I was laughing to myself as the truth is that I was wearing shorts to the gym even in January and also while it was snowing. Yes, it is a bit too crazy to do this.
First of all, trust me when I tell you that the only reason I was not at Starbucks at 4:30 in the morning is that they are not open until 5:30 am, and I have to suffer through Dunkin Donuts coffee to get to the gym by 5am. But, I digress. Then I realized that it is kind of nutty to wear shorts going to the gym at that time of the morning. It really is just my own laziness that I don't put on my tear away windpants over my shorts. When you do what I do for a living you really don't want to ever be described as "crazy" before your name. Eccentric, yes! But crazy, NO! So, I thought I'd really need to stop being lazy and put on my sweatpants before heading out the door at 4:30 AM each day. I was laughing to myself as the truth is that I was wearing shorts to the gym even in January and also while it was snowing. Yes, it is a bit too crazy to do this.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Step # 2: A.W.A.R.E. Formula-WATCH OUT for your emotinal eating triggers
Emotional eating doesn't not happen without a cause. There's always a reason. We all have numerous triggers or cues, and the more of them that you can identify, the better.
So, what pushes your emotional eating buttons? Is it when you feel stress, loneliness, anger, boredom, sadness, or frustrated? Is it at parties, holidays, restaurants, or when you are alone? Is it the smell or sight of food? Is it watching television or going to a movie? Is it when people are eating around you or when certain weather occurs?
Once you have identified your triggers, your goal is to remove the ones you control and prepare your defenses for those you don't or cannot control.
One of the most common triggers for emotional eating is stress. One of the simplest ways to handle stress is to change the way you perceive it. Stress is not inherently problematic. What matters most is how you interpret and RESPOND to stress.
We need to see and have the experience that food is not the way to deal with stress. Food is good for energy and nutrition, but is a terrible way to de-stress because stress eating only makes us feel guilty afterward, and guilt simply leads to more stress.
So, what pushes your emotional eating buttons? Is it when you feel stress, loneliness, anger, boredom, sadness, or frustrated? Is it at parties, holidays, restaurants, or when you are alone? Is it the smell or sight of food? Is it watching television or going to a movie? Is it when people are eating around you or when certain weather occurs?
Once you have identified your triggers, your goal is to remove the ones you control and prepare your defenses for those you don't or cannot control.
One of the most common triggers for emotional eating is stress. One of the simplest ways to handle stress is to change the way you perceive it. Stress is not inherently problematic. What matters most is how you interpret and RESPOND to stress.
We need to see and have the experience that food is not the way to deal with stress. Food is good for energy and nutrition, but is a terrible way to de-stress because stress eating only makes us feel guilty afterward, and guilt simply leads to more stress.
Doors closing and opening
"When one door closes, another opens; but, we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the ones which open for us."
Alexander Graham Bell
"If you have one eye on yesterday, and another eye on tomorrow, you're going to be cross-eyed today" David Baird
"Too many fall into their future while chasing their past.
Some people go through today carrying the burdens of all their yesterdays and tomorrows.
Nothing is worth more than this day. NOW.
Rejoice in the things that are present; all else is beyond this."
Michel de Montaigne
Alexander Graham Bell
"If you have one eye on yesterday, and another eye on tomorrow, you're going to be cross-eyed today" David Baird
"Too many fall into their future while chasing their past.
Some people go through today carrying the burdens of all their yesterdays and tomorrows.
Nothing is worth more than this day. NOW.
Rejoice in the things that are present; all else is beyond this."
Michel de Montaigne
Shaking Hands- An outdated ritual
This is just my third negative blog entry.(The other two were the new ATM machines at my bank and people who wear too much cologne or perfume.) Actually, I don't really think it's all that negative when I actually think about it. I HATE TO SHAKE HANDS!
I think it is such a stupid custom to have to shake hands with another person when I greet them or say goodbye. When I don't wish to shake hands with someone I often get a negative response from them. Sometimes, I have even been told that it is a "symbol of trust" to shake hands with another. How dumb. People who know me already know I am a person that can be trusted. Those who do not know me need to NOT base their perception and opinion of whether or not I can be a trustworthy person on a ridiculous and outdated and non-pragmatic custom. Many very untrustworthy and unscrupulous individuals are very adept at the hand shaking ritual. They will even look you in the eye as they shake your hand and smile as they think of ways to use you, get money from you, or work you in some fashion to meet their own ends. It never has anything to do with trust. Not real trust, anyway.
First of all, hand shaking is a germ's best weapon. I believe more colds, flu viruses, and other nasty things are spread through this foolish custom. Many times, hand shaking occurs and I am not able to get to a washroom to clean off any germs. I have been to meetings and organizational activities where I am expected to shake the hands of 50 or more people! YUCK! I can see germs and viruses getting very excited about these get-togethers. I even like the "fist bump" greeting better. The problem is that it is just not ready to be accepted by many professionals. There are more germs on our hands than anywhere else on our body.
I did some research on this insidious custom. Apparently, it originated in British society when one was concerned about another having a weapon in their hands when meeting with them. Is this something we need to worry about now? Anyway, why couldn't someone have a weapon in the other hand or somewhere else on their person? Makes no sense...
The Japanese, Koreans, and other Asian groups do not even shake hands. They bow to each other upon greeting and leaving indicating respect for each other. In Japan, I am told by my ex, it is considered impolite to have a cold and not wear a mask on your nose and mouth so you will not spread your germs to another. In a typical rush hour in Tokyo, you will see many people on the trains and subways wearing these masks as they travel to work and back home. Very, very courteous and civilized in my opinion.
I am told by lovers and partakers of this barbaric and archaic custom that there are even "rules"for the hand shaking ritual as well. Apparently, it is not respectful to either squeeze another's hand too hard or strong. This apparently means that you wish to dominate that person. OK... Also, it is considered a sign of weakness to give the "limp wrist" handshake for it indicates weak character. So weird...Another "rule" is that one should not grab another's hand during the handshake and tilt the hand upward and over the other's hand as this may indicate arrogance. OK... with all these stupid "rules", I'd rather not even be bothered.
This is the first day of Spring. I am making a promise to myself that I will no longer participate in this worn out custom. I declare my independence! So, I am going to simply bow respectfully when greeting business people or colleagues. My friends and others I hold dear will receive my usual warm hug, embrace, or possible kiss.
Ahhh, I feel better already.
I think it is such a stupid custom to have to shake hands with another person when I greet them or say goodbye. When I don't wish to shake hands with someone I often get a negative response from them. Sometimes, I have even been told that it is a "symbol of trust" to shake hands with another. How dumb. People who know me already know I am a person that can be trusted. Those who do not know me need to NOT base their perception and opinion of whether or not I can be a trustworthy person on a ridiculous and outdated and non-pragmatic custom. Many very untrustworthy and unscrupulous individuals are very adept at the hand shaking ritual. They will even look you in the eye as they shake your hand and smile as they think of ways to use you, get money from you, or work you in some fashion to meet their own ends. It never has anything to do with trust. Not real trust, anyway.
First of all, hand shaking is a germ's best weapon. I believe more colds, flu viruses, and other nasty things are spread through this foolish custom. Many times, hand shaking occurs and I am not able to get to a washroom to clean off any germs. I have been to meetings and organizational activities where I am expected to shake the hands of 50 or more people! YUCK! I can see germs and viruses getting very excited about these get-togethers. I even like the "fist bump" greeting better. The problem is that it is just not ready to be accepted by many professionals. There are more germs on our hands than anywhere else on our body.
I did some research on this insidious custom. Apparently, it originated in British society when one was concerned about another having a weapon in their hands when meeting with them. Is this something we need to worry about now? Anyway, why couldn't someone have a weapon in the other hand or somewhere else on their person? Makes no sense...
The Japanese, Koreans, and other Asian groups do not even shake hands. They bow to each other upon greeting and leaving indicating respect for each other. In Japan, I am told by my ex, it is considered impolite to have a cold and not wear a mask on your nose and mouth so you will not spread your germs to another. In a typical rush hour in Tokyo, you will see many people on the trains and subways wearing these masks as they travel to work and back home. Very, very courteous and civilized in my opinion.
I am told by lovers and partakers of this barbaric and archaic custom that there are even "rules"for the hand shaking ritual as well. Apparently, it is not respectful to either squeeze another's hand too hard or strong. This apparently means that you wish to dominate that person. OK... Also, it is considered a sign of weakness to give the "limp wrist" handshake for it indicates weak character. So weird...Another "rule" is that one should not grab another's hand during the handshake and tilt the hand upward and over the other's hand as this may indicate arrogance. OK... with all these stupid "rules", I'd rather not even be bothered.
This is the first day of Spring. I am making a promise to myself that I will no longer participate in this worn out custom. I declare my independence! So, I am going to simply bow respectfully when greeting business people or colleagues. My friends and others I hold dear will receive my usual warm hug, embrace, or possible kiss.
Ahhh, I feel better already.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Gravity
It is the gravity pull of some of our habits that may currently be keeping us from where we wish to go. But, it is also the pull of gravity which keeps our world together, that keeps the planets in their orbits and our world in order.
It is a powerful force, and if we use it effectively, we can use the gravity pull of habit to create the cohesiveness and order to establish effectiveness in our lives.
It is a powerful force, and if we use it effectively, we can use the gravity pull of habit to create the cohesiveness and order to establish effectiveness in our lives.
Step # 1: A.W.A.R.E. Formula-Become AWARE of your eating behaviors
At first, your biggest challenge is that you may not know that you are eating "mindlessly". Often it is eating emotionally that causes this to happen. You eat without thinking for many reasons, and the neural associations to foods that trigger emotional eating can be formed at a very young age. Foods can get linked to home, friends, love, being pampered, family, and just about any person, place, or experience.
Habitual eating patterns such as these often run on "automatic pilot", unless you intentionally break them and replace them with new ones. But, before you can break them you have to acknowledge they exist. This is where awareness comes in. You have to pay attention. This is the polar opposite of mindless and emotional and impulse eating.
You have to eat exclusively which means that when you eat you do nothing but eat. Eating exclusively means that you will become aware of undesirable associations of emotions and food. Watching TV, being on the computer, or reading a newspaper can all become linked to eating mindlessly when they are paired together enough times. If one of these activities becomes linked to eating, just watching TV or going onto the computer may trigger emotional hunger and subsequent mindless eating.
The second part of mindful eating is to eat slowly. Eating too quickly will not allow the satiety mechanisms in your brain to register the caloric energy. By the time that you feel full, you may have already eaten too much.
Keeping a journal of what you eat is a great way to promote conscious awareness of what you eat.
Habitual eating patterns such as these often run on "automatic pilot", unless you intentionally break them and replace them with new ones. But, before you can break them you have to acknowledge they exist. This is where awareness comes in. You have to pay attention. This is the polar opposite of mindless and emotional and impulse eating.
You have to eat exclusively which means that when you eat you do nothing but eat. Eating exclusively means that you will become aware of undesirable associations of emotions and food. Watching TV, being on the computer, or reading a newspaper can all become linked to eating mindlessly when they are paired together enough times. If one of these activities becomes linked to eating, just watching TV or going onto the computer may trigger emotional hunger and subsequent mindless eating.
The second part of mindful eating is to eat slowly. Eating too quickly will not allow the satiety mechanisms in your brain to register the caloric energy. By the time that you feel full, you may have already eaten too much.
Keeping a journal of what you eat is a great way to promote conscious awareness of what you eat.
Dr. Crew's fat loss challenge-update week #8
I have gained .8 lbs. this week. I am not really too worried as I continue to fit into jeans I could not fit into several weeks ago. I believe I am adding muscle as well as perhaps holding some water for this week's weigh in. I continue to stick to the program and work it for the full 100 day commitment.
I am getting even stronger as of late when I train at the gym. I feel good and my energy level is improved. This is day number 58/100. I have lost a grand total of 8.4 lbs. of fat and certainly have grown stronger and leaner.
I am getting even stronger as of late when I train at the gym. I feel good and my energy level is improved. This is day number 58/100. I have lost a grand total of 8.4 lbs. of fat and certainly have grown stronger and leaner.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Jesus Camp
Michael and I saw a very, very disturbing documentary this past weekend. It was called "Jesus Camp." It chronicled how children from these fundamentalist "Christian" families indoctrinate them into their own political and religious beliefs. In this film, you see how these children are taught to believe right-wing conservative ideas including being against abortion, gay rights, and minorities while fostering pro-war ideals and Republican stances on all topics.
There are clearly scary scenes where these children are mimicking adults they are exposed to by preaching hate and bigotry. They are taught to "speak in tongues", prophecy, and attend abortion rallies and rallies against stem cell research and gay marriage. They are constantly exposed only to "Christian" cartoons and programs on television.
In the most memorable portion of the film children from these whacked out families attend a camp where they are further brainwashed and the directors of the camp use peer pressure to influence these children even more. They are whipped into a frenzy where there is laying on of hands, speaking in tongues, crying, and constant threats of living in Hell if not obeying God.
(I attended Christian camp for so many summers during my childhood. Four Brooks Bible Camp was one of the most wonderful memories of my youth. I began as a camper, then became a counselor in training, and eventually a counselor there.)
There are clearly scary scenes where these children are mimicking adults they are exposed to by preaching hate and bigotry. They are taught to "speak in tongues", prophecy, and attend abortion rallies and rallies against stem cell research and gay marriage. They are constantly exposed only to "Christian" cartoons and programs on television.
In the most memorable portion of the film children from these whacked out families attend a camp where they are further brainwashed and the directors of the camp use peer pressure to influence these children even more. They are whipped into a frenzy where there is laying on of hands, speaking in tongues, crying, and constant threats of living in Hell if not obeying God.
There was so much hatred being expressed by these adults and then imitated by these children.
As a Christian I was deeply offended by this film and at the same time felt so sad for these children who have been exposed to this brutal brainwashing by their seriously delusional and emotionally ill parents.(I attended Christian camp for so many summers during my childhood. Four Brooks Bible Camp was one of the most wonderful memories of my youth. I began as a camper, then became a counselor in training, and eventually a counselor there.)
New series: The A.W.A.R.E. Formula: 5 steps to end emotional eating
Awareness is the starting point of change, because you can't solve a problem you do not acknowledge. You are about to learn how to develop a keen awareness of your behavior patterns, how to stop negative patterns dead in their tracks, and how to replace them with new ones. Lastly, you will learn how to make these changes permanent by literally rewiring your nervous system so the negative patterns are less likely to occur and positive new eating behaviors will run on autopilot.
There are 5 simple steps to this process called the A.W.A.R.E. Formula. Here is the basic outline. In each blog entry I will elaborate more on each step individually. They are:
1)Becoming AWARE of your eating patterns and behaviors.
2)WATCH OUT for your emotional eating triggers.
3)ARREST the behavior patterns when they happen.
4)REPLACE the old emotional eating behavior with more constructive alternatives.
5)ESTABLISH new beliefs about food and the right reasons for eating.
There are 5 simple steps to this process called the A.W.A.R.E. Formula. Here is the basic outline. In each blog entry I will elaborate more on each step individually. They are:
1)Becoming AWARE of your eating patterns and behaviors.
2)WATCH OUT for your emotional eating triggers.
3)ARREST the behavior patterns when they happen.
4)REPLACE the old emotional eating behavior with more constructive alternatives.
5)ESTABLISH new beliefs about food and the right reasons for eating.
Words
The purpose of a fish trap is to catch fish. When the fish are caught, the trap is forgotten.
The purpose of a rabbit snare is to catch rabbits. When the rabbits are caught, the snare is forgotten.
The purpose of words are to convey ideas. When the ideas are grasped, the words are forgotten.
Where can I find a man who has forgotten words? He is the man I wish to speak with.
Chuang-Tzu
The purpose of a rabbit snare is to catch rabbits. When the rabbits are caught, the snare is forgotten.
The purpose of words are to convey ideas. When the ideas are grasped, the words are forgotten.
Where can I find a man who has forgotten words? He is the man I wish to speak with.
Chuang-Tzu
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Dr. Crew now a certified NLP practitioner
Dr. Crew has now completed his training and is a certified NLP practitioner. Neuro-Linguistic Programming is a theoretical approach studying and utilizing the use of words, language, and subconscious thought to influence habits, behavior, and learning.
NLP is especially instrumental while doing hypnosis and hypnotherapy.
NLP is especially instrumental while doing hypnosis and hypnotherapy.
About Time
The evolutionary process has programmed us to reproduce, age, and die. That is all we are required to do. The rest is up to us.
What is a clock if not an instrument of torture, ticking away, slaying time, and stealing life. Killing time is injurious to eternity. Killing time is impossible. It is time that kills us.
The shortest hours are the ones between work and sleep. If we could make every moment in our lives count, that indeed would make a long life.
The richest person alive is the one who uses effectively the time most other people throw away. It takes quite a lot of courage for us to grow up and become who we really are.
Time, they say, is a great teacher. Yet, it kills all its students at some time or another.
You cannot live a long life when you treat it as if it will go on forever. The most important person not to fool is yourself. I am nobody but myself.
What is a clock if not an instrument of torture, ticking away, slaying time, and stealing life. Killing time is injurious to eternity. Killing time is impossible. It is time that kills us.
The shortest hours are the ones between work and sleep. If we could make every moment in our lives count, that indeed would make a long life.
The richest person alive is the one who uses effectively the time most other people throw away. It takes quite a lot of courage for us to grow up and become who we really are.
Time, they say, is a great teacher. Yet, it kills all its students at some time or another.
You cannot live a long life when you treat it as if it will go on forever. The most important person not to fool is yourself. I am nobody but myself.
Ten Affirmations about food and balance- #10
"What 's most important is what I eat habitually, so I'm very conscious about what I eat repeatedly day after day. I understand and have great respect for the power of my habits."
Monday, March 16, 2009
MILK
Michael and I saw the movie "Milk" over the weekend. What a great movie. Sean Penn continues to amaze me in almost every picture I have seen him in. No wonder he won best actor for this role.
Although I was just beginning undergraduate school when Milk's assassination occurred, I had few memories of the actual event. After seeing this movie, I can remember more of the situation in 1978. I realized the immense contributions he had made to equal rights in this country and of the Gay Rights Movement in particular. Even now, in 2009, Gays and Lesbians cannot marry. There are so many other rights that people who are Gay or Lesbian cannot enjoy. Certainly, progress has been made, but even more certainly, there is much more to be done.
I was struck by the passion of the actual people who were involved in the Gay Rights Movement in the 1970's as they are interviewed in the extras on the DVD.
Although I was just beginning undergraduate school when Milk's assassination occurred, I had few memories of the actual event. After seeing this movie, I can remember more of the situation in 1978. I realized the immense contributions he had made to equal rights in this country and of the Gay Rights Movement in particular. Even now, in 2009, Gays and Lesbians cannot marry. There are so many other rights that people who are Gay or Lesbian cannot enjoy. Certainly, progress has been made, but even more certainly, there is much more to be done.
I was struck by the passion of the actual people who were involved in the Gay Rights Movement in the 1970's as they are interviewed in the extras on the DVD.
Adversity
"Adversity teaches a man about himself." Anonymous
After difficult or challenging times we often realize that although we never would have chosen to go through a particular situation, we have learned a lot in the process. It could be a job situation, a relationship issue, or even trouble with the law. When we bump up against something hard-something that pushes back at us, our strength is tested, forcing us to draw upon unknown reserves.
A mountain climber standing on a safe ledge finds it difficult to move forward onto a more frightening spot. After he has completed the route he looks back and feels good about himself as he has met the challenge. We meet these challenges in many ways in our lives and they help us build our self respect.
Whatever is facing us, we may have to deal with it ourselves, but we do not have to be alone when we do it. We can reach out for support while we do what we must. These difficulties are part of being human and they help us to see more fully who we truly are.
After difficult or challenging times we often realize that although we never would have chosen to go through a particular situation, we have learned a lot in the process. It could be a job situation, a relationship issue, or even trouble with the law. When we bump up against something hard-something that pushes back at us, our strength is tested, forcing us to draw upon unknown reserves.
A mountain climber standing on a safe ledge finds it difficult to move forward onto a more frightening spot. After he has completed the route he looks back and feels good about himself as he has met the challenge. We meet these challenges in many ways in our lives and they help us build our self respect.
Whatever is facing us, we may have to deal with it ourselves, but we do not have to be alone when we do it. We can reach out for support while we do what we must. These difficulties are part of being human and they help us to see more fully who we truly are.
Ten Affirmations about food and balance- #9
"Everything I eat will have some effect on my body, but I realize that what I eat once in a while doesn't impact me that much."
Friday, March 13, 2009
Idol Chatter
OK. Yes, I watch American Idol. There are now 11 contestants remaining. I wanted to go on record and pick my favorites thus far.
I like Adam Lambert, Lil Rounds, Allison Iraheta, Matt Giroud, and Kris Allen. I have to admit I may like Kris for reasons other than his musical talent.
We watch the show each week and I don't think we've missed an episode in the 8 years it's been running.
My prediction for the next contestant to go is Anoop, Megan, or Michael.
I like Adam Lambert, Lil Rounds, Allison Iraheta, Matt Giroud, and Kris Allen. I have to admit I may like Kris for reasons other than his musical talent.
We watch the show each week and I don't think we've missed an episode in the 8 years it's been running.
My prediction for the next contestant to go is Anoop, Megan, or Michael.
Inner Quiet
I have always hated chaos and stimulous overload. Even as a child I can clearly remember feeling so uncomfortable around many people talking all at once. Always, I have desired quiet and peace.
As I grew older I learned to cultivate a pool of inner quiet through meditation and contemplation. I learned to create a place of peace within me that I can call on throughout my day. I give myself time to sense the meaning of my life. Unless my mind slows down, I will not be still enough to know through direct experience. I will not have the inner peace to come into contact with the deeper and deeper layers of myself.
If I accumulate and accomplish all that I have set out to but lose my ability to enjoy then I have bought into a fool's paradise. Then I will simply be surrounded by riches that I am unable to appreciate.
I recognize that an important part of taking care of myself is to provide myself the quiet time I need and deserve in order to be happy.
"For what does it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world and lose his soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" Mark 8: 36-37
GIVE A LISTEN!!!
("I Don't Want to Gain the Whole World and Lose My Soul" - Toby Mac, Kirk Franklin, and Mandisa) from the album "Portable Sounds", 2007
As I grew older I learned to cultivate a pool of inner quiet through meditation and contemplation. I learned to create a place of peace within me that I can call on throughout my day. I give myself time to sense the meaning of my life. Unless my mind slows down, I will not be still enough to know through direct experience. I will not have the inner peace to come into contact with the deeper and deeper layers of myself.
If I accumulate and accomplish all that I have set out to but lose my ability to enjoy then I have bought into a fool's paradise. Then I will simply be surrounded by riches that I am unable to appreciate.
I recognize that an important part of taking care of myself is to provide myself the quiet time I need and deserve in order to be happy.
"For what does it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world and lose his soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" Mark 8: 36-37
GIVE A LISTEN!!!
("I Don't Want to Gain the Whole World and Lose My Soul" - Toby Mac, Kirk Franklin, and Mandisa) from the album "Portable Sounds", 2007
Ten Affirmations about food and balance- #8
"If I desire better results, faster, I realize that I may need to tighten up my nutritional compliance and I am willing to do this if that's what it takes."
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Oneness with Others
We need to see that there does not have to be competition between us. When you realize that each one of us has a specific part to offer the whole, all that spirit of competition will disappear and you will be able to relax and be your authentic self. How much simpler life will be when we cease trying to be something we are not.
We all have our part to play in the whole, so play it to the very best of your ability. We need to ask ourselves if we are loving one another. Are you doing it, or just being tolerant, making excuses for yourself by saying that there are certain souls that you cannot be expected to blend with, since you are poles apart?
We are all beloved in God's sight and His love flows to each one alike. When we accept our oneness to Him, we can then be more able to accept our oneness to each other.
We all have our part to play in the whole, so play it to the very best of your ability. We need to ask ourselves if we are loving one another. Are you doing it, or just being tolerant, making excuses for yourself by saying that there are certain souls that you cannot be expected to blend with, since you are poles apart?
We are all beloved in God's sight and His love flows to each one alike. When we accept our oneness to Him, we can then be more able to accept our oneness to each other.
Our Integrity
Integrity in an independent reality simply is this: you treat everyone by the same set of principles. As you do, people will come to trust you. They may not at first appreciate the honest confrontational experiences such integrity might generate. Confrontation takes considerable courage, and many people would prefer to take the course of least resistance, belittling and criticizing, betraying confidences, or participating in gossip about others behind their backs. But, in the long run, people will trust and respect you if you are honest and open and kind with them. You care enough to confront and speak your truth. And to be trusted, it is said, is even greater than to be loved. In the long run, I am convinced, that to be truly trusted will also mean to be truly loved.
Dr. Crew's fat loss challenge-update week #7
WOW! What a great result this week! This week I have dropped 2.2 pounds of body fat. This now has me down 9.2 pounds of body fat lost since starting this program 51 days ago. I am half way there to the 100 day program I committed to and I really need to lose just 8 more pounds of body fat to bring me to what I had targeted when I initiated this program.
I continue to eat cleanly and allow myself a weekly "free meal" on Saturday. This has assisted me in staying clean on the program by providing me with a reward for excellence all week. I continue to eat at least 6 servings a day of fruits/vegetables and at least 4 servings a day of lean protein. I limit white flour and sugar and l do not eat much bread at all. I am continuing my rather diligent workout routine 6 days a week; 3 days cardio and 3 days weight training.
I dropped a pant size this week and the jeans I was wearing 51 days ago no longer fit well! I am motivated to remain near perfect on this program and anticipate reaching my goal by early May.
I continue to eat cleanly and allow myself a weekly "free meal" on Saturday. This has assisted me in staying clean on the program by providing me with a reward for excellence all week. I continue to eat at least 6 servings a day of fruits/vegetables and at least 4 servings a day of lean protein. I limit white flour and sugar and l do not eat much bread at all. I am continuing my rather diligent workout routine 6 days a week; 3 days cardio and 3 days weight training.
I dropped a pant size this week and the jeans I was wearing 51 days ago no longer fit well! I am motivated to remain near perfect on this program and anticipate reaching my goal by early May.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
SYNERGY
Synergy is everywhere in nature. If you plant two plants close together, the roots comingle and improve the quality of the soil so that both plants will grow better than if they were separated. If you put two pieces of wood together, they will hold much more than the total of the weight held by each of them separately. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts. One plus one can equal three or more!
What can we accomplish when we move and work together?
What can we accomplish when we move and work together?
Side Planks
I have blogged about the wonderful core exercise called the "Plank". (see blog entry on 2/27/09). This exercise can also be done for the side abdominals, called the obliques.
Begin as you would when executing the plank but work the right and left oblique by stabilizing yourself on your forearm and sides of your feet and holding this position. Be careful not to allow the hip closest to the floor to bow. Make sure the entire body is in perfect alignment and steady as you breath and relax while holding yourself still. If you can do this well, incorporate your other arm pointing upward as you hold yourself up as in a "star" shape.
This core exercise, as with the regular "plank' can be done on the floor or by utilizing a bench that is heavy and not going to move as you perform the exercise. Try to increase your time holding the exercise each time you execute this core exercise. Keep in mind that so much of this stabilizing hold is mental as well as physical. Try to imagine yourself in a peaceful and relaxing place as you hold yourself. Think "I am strong and calm and stable."
Begin as you would when executing the plank but work the right and left oblique by stabilizing yourself on your forearm and sides of your feet and holding this position. Be careful not to allow the hip closest to the floor to bow. Make sure the entire body is in perfect alignment and steady as you breath and relax while holding yourself still. If you can do this well, incorporate your other arm pointing upward as you hold yourself up as in a "star" shape.
This core exercise, as with the regular "plank' can be done on the floor or by utilizing a bench that is heavy and not going to move as you perform the exercise. Try to increase your time holding the exercise each time you execute this core exercise. Keep in mind that so much of this stabilizing hold is mental as well as physical. Try to imagine yourself in a peaceful and relaxing place as you hold yourself. Think "I am strong and calm and stable."
Ten Affirmations about food and balance- #7
"If I set a compliance rule for myself, then there is no such thing as a forbidden food. As long as I obey the law of calorie balance and eat only small amounts, I can still be healthy, develop a great body, and enjoy my favorite foods in moderation."
Wounds
I will release myself from the compulsion to repeat painful patterns by learning to acknowledge the wounds that lie beneath them. In my attempts to keep these wounds from being known, I have kept myself unaware of important parts of myself. Then I seek out situations that will allow my wounds to surface and be felt. My unconscious and subconscious mind knows what it is carrying within it and wishes to come to the surface so it can heal. When I hold it in darkness, I keep an emotional infection from receiving the light and pure air that it needs to heal.
I can no longer glorify living mindlessly and without pain. I must use my pain to finally cleanse and heal myself. I must be willing to acknowledge my wounds.
"I am ill because of wounds to the soul; to the deep emotional self, and the wounds to the soul take a long, long time, only time can help and patience, and a certain difficult repentance, long difficult repentance, realization of life's mistakes and the freeing of one's self from the endless repetition of the mistake...has chosen to sanctify." D.H. Lawrence
I can no longer glorify living mindlessly and without pain. I must use my pain to finally cleanse and heal myself. I must be willing to acknowledge my wounds.
"I am ill because of wounds to the soul; to the deep emotional self, and the wounds to the soul take a long, long time, only time can help and patience, and a certain difficult repentance, long difficult repentance, realization of life's mistakes and the freeing of one's self from the endless repetition of the mistake...has chosen to sanctify." D.H. Lawrence
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Dr. Crew now a proud member of LeTip International
I am pleased to announce that I have been accepted into the local Mt. Sinai, New York chapter of Letip International. LeTip is a group of professionals dedicated to each other's businesses. We refer to each other and come to realize that all of our businesses can benefit from each other's recommendations and referrals.
LeTip meets each Tuesday morning at the Mt. Sinai Heritage diner on 25A in Mt. Sinai from 7am until 8:30am. There are approximately 38 members in this particular chapter of LeTip coming from all types of business and services. LeTip is in many countries and there are over 4,000 chapters alone in the U.S.
I was impressed by the organization's dedication to each other and insuring that each member reaps profits from each other. I am excited about the possibilities my membership will bring.
If you are interested in learning more about LeTip please contact me and I will gladly accompany you to a meeting as my guest. LeTip does not allow duplication of services for any branch of business so that there is never a conflict of interest amongst its members.
LeTip meets each Tuesday morning at the Mt. Sinai Heritage diner on 25A in Mt. Sinai from 7am until 8:30am. There are approximately 38 members in this particular chapter of LeTip coming from all types of business and services. LeTip is in many countries and there are over 4,000 chapters alone in the U.S.
I was impressed by the organization's dedication to each other and insuring that each member reaps profits from each other. I am excited about the possibilities my membership will bring.
If you are interested in learning more about LeTip please contact me and I will gladly accompany you to a meeting as my guest. LeTip does not allow duplication of services for any branch of business so that there is never a conflict of interest amongst its members.
Compassion, not accusation
We need to look upon the weaknesses in others with true compassion, not accusation. It's not what they are doing or not doing that is the issue. The issue is your own chosen response to the situation and what YOU should be doing. If you start to believe the problem is "out there", stop yourself. The THOUGHT is the problem.
Ten Affirmations about food and balance- #6
"I don't have to be perfect. If I eat healthy, natural foods 90% of the time, I know I will obtain my desired results."
Monday, March 9, 2009
A Weird Weekend
Since last Wednesday I had been fighting a cold. It appeared that I was losing the battle. I got more ill as the week went on and by Friday I was not feeling well at all. I woke up Saturday morning and I knew I had to go to a Doctor as I know when I have a sinus infection. My regular Doc. does not have office hours on the weekends so Mike and I found a walk in urgent care clinic in Smithtown and headed there on Saturday morning.
I know that I am getting old, but when the Doctor came in to see me I really felt old. He looked like he may have been 26 years old. I remembered when I began my practice 27 years ago that many patients thought I was still in college or even high school! He began telling me after the examination that I had a cold and anti-biotics would not help me at all. I informed him of my medical experience as well as my knowledge of my body and stated that I had a sinus infection that needed anti-biotics to clear it up. He told me I was wrong, but gave in to my urgings and gave me a script for Azithromycin as I had asked for.
We filled it and I felt better in 24 hours on Sunday. Today(Monday) I feel 85% back to myself. So much for the cold being viral and would not respond to anti-biotics. I guess Doogie Houser was wrong.
It was a strange weekend all around. The temperature was hovering around 70 degrees and yet there was still snow on the ground from last Monday's storm. It felt like Aspen or Denver!
Since I was out of commission on Saturday we stayed home and watched "Wall-E ". I enjoyed it. I love animation and Disney just does it so well. By Sunday morning I was feeling so much better and we got out of the house a bit.
I get upset when I get ill. I always feel that I should NEVER get ill as I take good care of myself. I know I am very prone to getting sinus infections. This has been occuring ever since I was diagnosed with Sarcoidosis.
I know that I am getting old, but when the Doctor came in to see me I really felt old. He looked like he may have been 26 years old. I remembered when I began my practice 27 years ago that many patients thought I was still in college or even high school! He began telling me after the examination that I had a cold and anti-biotics would not help me at all. I informed him of my medical experience as well as my knowledge of my body and stated that I had a sinus infection that needed anti-biotics to clear it up. He told me I was wrong, but gave in to my urgings and gave me a script for Azithromycin as I had asked for.
We filled it and I felt better in 24 hours on Sunday. Today(Monday) I feel 85% back to myself. So much for the cold being viral and would not respond to anti-biotics. I guess Doogie Houser was wrong.
It was a strange weekend all around. The temperature was hovering around 70 degrees and yet there was still snow on the ground from last Monday's storm. It felt like Aspen or Denver!
Since I was out of commission on Saturday we stayed home and watched "Wall-E ". I enjoyed it. I love animation and Disney just does it so well. By Sunday morning I was feeling so much better and we got out of the house a bit.
I get upset when I get ill. I always feel that I should NEVER get ill as I take good care of myself. I know I am very prone to getting sinus infections. This has been occuring ever since I was diagnosed with Sarcoidosis.
Ten Affirmations about food and balance- #5
" I realize that food can be one of life's great pleasures and that completely denying myself of foods that I enjoy is never productive in the long run."
A Second Creation
Whether we are aware of it or not, whether we are in control of it or not, there is a first creation to every part of our lives. We are either the second creation of our own proactive design, or we are the second creation of other people's agendas, of circumstances, or of past habits.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Win/Lose People
When two Win/Lose people get together-that is, when two determined, stubborn, ego-invested individuals interact-the result will be Lose/Lose. Both will lose. Both will become vindictive and want to "get back" or "get even", blind to the fact that murder is suicide, and that revenge is a two- edged sword.
Ten Affirmations about food and balance- #4
"Healthy food that helps me burn fat and build muscle can be prepared in delicious ways."
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Ten Affirmations about food and balance- #3
"When I feel stressed or depressed, I possess alternate ways of dealing with those feelings."
A Reframe
I can change. I can live out my imagination instead of my memory. I can tie myself to my limitless potential instead of my limiting past. I can become my own first creator.
Dr. Crew's fat loss challenge-update week #6
I gained, according to the scale, .4lbs. this week. However, I have been taking cold medication for the last couple of days and this always leads to water retention so I am not too concerned. I am, however, going to cut back more this coming week to ensure a loss next week.
So far, I have lost a total of 7 pounds of body fat over the last 44 days.
So far, I have lost a total of 7 pounds of body fat over the last 44 days.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
U2- New album
Those of you who know me well know how much I love the band U2. Yesterday their new CD "dropped". It is entitled "No Line On the Horizon".
Of course, I had to go and get a copy immediately. It was easier than usual to obtain this new CD as Starbucks is selling it. So, when I went to "Bucks" for my early afternoon pick me up I purchased the CD. As I expected, it is fantastic. U2 fans will not be disappointed as the sound is familiar to us. Bono's vocals are as perfect as ever and the lyrics are beautiful and haunting. The Egde's guitar rifts are classic and as cutting and melodic as ever.
I always tell others that if I ever had the chance to have a lunch with anyone it may very well be Bono. I find him to be a passionate and beautiful human being who is closely aligned to my political beliefs, sense of spirituality and ideology. He combines his Christian faith with his music and his passionate belief in the power of love and social activism. I love that despite all of their success, this band remains together and committed to their musical mission. They seem to change their identity and adjust to the times, yet remain committed to each other. Bono and his wife have been together for over 30 years and this is rare as well, especially with touring and so much success.
Give the new album a listen."No Line on the Horizon" is in stores as of yesterday. My favorite cuts from the album are"Moment of Surrender", "Fez-Being Born", "White as Snow", "Magnificent", and "Unknown Caller." The new CD is just $12.95 at Starbucks and what's even better is that $1. of each album sold will go directly to Bono's Global Fund fighting the spread of HIV/AIDS in Africa.
Of course, I had to go and get a copy immediately. It was easier than usual to obtain this new CD as Starbucks is selling it. So, when I went to "Bucks" for my early afternoon pick me up I purchased the CD. As I expected, it is fantastic. U2 fans will not be disappointed as the sound is familiar to us. Bono's vocals are as perfect as ever and the lyrics are beautiful and haunting. The Egde's guitar rifts are classic and as cutting and melodic as ever.
I always tell others that if I ever had the chance to have a lunch with anyone it may very well be Bono. I find him to be a passionate and beautiful human being who is closely aligned to my political beliefs, sense of spirituality and ideology. He combines his Christian faith with his music and his passionate belief in the power of love and social activism. I love that despite all of their success, this band remains together and committed to their musical mission. They seem to change their identity and adjust to the times, yet remain committed to each other. Bono and his wife have been together for over 30 years and this is rare as well, especially with touring and so much success.
Give the new album a listen."No Line on the Horizon" is in stores as of yesterday. My favorite cuts from the album are"Moment of Surrender", "Fez-Being Born", "White as Snow", "Magnificent", and "Unknown Caller." The new CD is just $12.95 at Starbucks and what's even better is that $1. of each album sold will go directly to Bono's Global Fund fighting the spread of HIV/AIDS in Africa.
The Law of the Harvest and the Law of Justice
The law of the harvest governs; we will always reap what we sow-no more, no less. The law of justice is immutable, and the closer we allign ourselves with correct principles, the better our judgement will be about how the world operates and the more accurate our paradigms-our maps of the territory will be.
Ten Affirmations about food and balance- #2
"I am totally conscious and aware of my beliefs about food and the reasons I eat."
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
New date set for Hypnotherapy certification
Dr. Crew will conduct another seminar for certification through the American Board of Clinical Hypnotherapy on March 27, 2009. The seminar is on a Friday and will begin promptly at 7:30 am and end at 6pm. This seminar is open to anyone seeking certification as a Clinical Hypnotherapist or for psychotherapists and other health professionals seeking Hypnotherapy certification.
The seminar will be held at the Suffolk Institute for Hypnotherapy (Dr. Crew's office) at 414 Main Street, Suite 204, Port Jefferson Village, NY. Information can be found on the SIH website http://www.sihonline.net/ or by calling Dr. Crew directly at 631/880-2531. Students can register on the SIH website as well.
The seminar will be held at the Suffolk Institute for Hypnotherapy (Dr. Crew's office) at 414 Main Street, Suite 204, Port Jefferson Village, NY. Information can be found on the SIH website http://www.sihonline.net/ or by calling Dr. Crew directly at 631/880-2531. Students can register on the SIH website as well.
Doing what we say
It has been said that all we really have in the end is our honor. I believe, to some extent, that this is essentially true. When we are viewed to be unreliable or untrustworthy we have no respect in the eyes of others. It causes them to not take us seriously and devalues us as human beings. Doing psychotherapy for over 27 years now I can say that all things are workable in a relationship when both parties can trust what each other say is true and can be relied upon. So many relationships suffer or even end when this trust is gone.
I strive for others to see me as someone who does what they say they will do; someone who can be relied upon. I never mind when I am not liked due to who I am and for what I believe. But, I never want anyone to say that I did not do what I had promised or cannot be trusted.
To me, this is more than just following up with what one agrees to do. It has to do with being on time, being fully prepared, keeping confidences, and accepting full responsibility for our actions.
I have learned over the years to be very careful of what I commit to as I know I will have to keep these commitments. I try to carefully consider all options and attempt to be very mindful of what I promise to do. I know it's fine to decline or to say I do not have the time nor the desire to do something. However, once I "sign on" to something I have to follow through with what I have committed to.
I have seen too many examples of people who give their word and do not do what they say. To me, they are people who are unprofessional and lack character. They have harmed their reputation in how they conduct themselves.
I strive for others to see me as someone who does what they say they will do; someone who can be relied upon. I never mind when I am not liked due to who I am and for what I believe. But, I never want anyone to say that I did not do what I had promised or cannot be trusted.
To me, this is more than just following up with what one agrees to do. It has to do with being on time, being fully prepared, keeping confidences, and accepting full responsibility for our actions.
I have learned over the years to be very careful of what I commit to as I know I will have to keep these commitments. I try to carefully consider all options and attempt to be very mindful of what I promise to do. I know it's fine to decline or to say I do not have the time nor the desire to do something. However, once I "sign on" to something I have to follow through with what I have committed to.
I have seen too many examples of people who give their word and do not do what they say. To me, they are people who are unprofessional and lack character. They have harmed their reputation in how they conduct themselves.
Ten Affirmations about food and balance- #1
"It's OK to eat for enjoyment or social reasons if I do it consciously and mindfully and I stay within the compliance rules and quantity limits I have set for myself in advance."
Monday, March 2, 2009
Margot Garant for mayor!
My friend, Margot Garant is running for mayor of Port Jefferson Village in an election to be held this June. Michael and I are behind her all the way and we are part of her campaign. Margot is a person with great vision who will certainly be good for this village. She is an attorney with an office on East Main Street who has been involved in village politics for many years. Margot's mother, Jeanne Garant, was mayor of this village for two terms and many people here in the village remember her as one of the best mayors this village has ever had.
GO MARGOT!
GO MARGOT!
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