Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Robyn Spooner
Kindle Edition
Copyright 2016 Robyn Spooner
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Although the author and publisher have made every effort to ensure that the information in this book
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liability to any party for any loss, damage or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such
errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause.
Disclaimer: The information in this book is based on the authors own experience. It is not intended
as a substitute for the advice of trained medical or mental health professionals. The reader should
regularly consult a physician, therapist or counsellor in matters relating to his/her physical or mental
health and particularly with respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention.
In the event you use any of the information in this book, the author and the publisher assume no
responsibility for your actions.
www.BenefitsOfStress.com
The Paradoxical Commandments are reprinted with the permission of the author.
Copyright Kent M. Keith 1968, renewed 2001.
www.paradoxicalcommandments.com
THANK YOU!
Thank you for purchasing The Benefits of Stress.
As a way of showing my appreciation
I have a free bonus gift for you: an exclusive Guided Meditation.
Download it now to enjoy an immediate sense of relaxation.
Come back to the book when you are nice and relaxed!
Table of Contents
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
DEDICATION
INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER 1: THE PARADOX OF STRESS
CHAPTER 2: INFLUENCES FROM THE ENVIRONMENT
CHAPTER 3: HEALING THE BODY
CHAPTER 4: MASTERING THE MINDSET
CHAPTER 5: BALANCING THE EMOTIONS
CHAPTER 6: INSPIRING THE SPIRIT
CHAPTER 7: ORGANISING YOUR TIME
CHAPTER 8: MANAGING YOUR MONEY
CHAPTER 9: DAILY SUCCESS RITUALS
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
I am blessed that there were so many awesome people who inspired me to write this
book and helped me to continually improve it along the way. Thanks for your support
and for helping to make this book great!
Id like to express heartfelt gratitude to my family and my friends, a diverse, savvy
group of generous souls who light the pathway to my inspiration. I am fortunate to
know you all.
I would like to acknowledge my loyal clients, whose trust I cherish as we work
through important health and wellbeing issues. You move me with your stories of
courage and your determination in your quest for optimum health. I would also like to
thank my BodyTalk buddies, Melissa Smith and Madonna Matthews for their
invaluable support.
I am truly appreciative of my editor, Eloise McInerney from scribesheet.com who
accepted the challenge to polish my work for my readers pleasure.
I am very thankful for the guidance of Chandler Bolt and the encouragement of the
Self Publishing School community whose unwavering assistance steered me through
the process of seeing my work published.
DEDICATION
I dedicate this book to the two most powerful women in my life:
My wonderful Mum whose strength inspires me
And my beautiful daughter Katelyn who has taught me wisely.
As above, so below.
Id also like to thank my bighearted brother Charles for his love.
I am blessed: I love and thank you all.
Introduction
Stress is one of the most debilitating afflictions of our modern world. It chokes the joy from our lives,
while the financial cost of its treatment is enormous. Billboards show us ways to relax, television
tells us what remedies to take, and journalists advise us how to stay healthy and happy. The avalanche
of information adds to the stress as sufferers seek effective ways to relieve their pain.
We expect a doctors prescription to solve our problems and banish our anxiety. Unfortunately, this is
only the beginning of our journey back to health. If we take the pill without unpacking the reasons for
our stress, we can become numb, and our life becomes one of survival rather than joyful engagement.
Womens lives are often extremely stressful as we struggle to juggle family and work. Getting through
each busy day can be a managerial nightmare, and it often feels like were on a treadmill, running
from one activity to the next, overwhelmed by the number of tasks ahead of us. We barely have
enough time to complete each one, let alone to take proper care of ourselves.
We often react to an overwhelming challenge by thinking we arent good enough. Our self-doubt sees
us take responsibility for impossible outcomes. We become our own worst enemies, hiding our shame
from people who may genuinely care. We bury our hurt and move on to the next stressful challenge
with an energetic cup that is half full.
Its natural to experience challenge as we strive towards our goals; however, when we endure high
levels of anxiety over long periods of time, were robbed of vitality, impacting our joy and eroding
our health. Stress builds up in our body because of our beliefs, and is exacerbated by the impact of
environmental issues, eventually compromising the overall energy of the physical body unless its
actively released.
When our health and relationships suffer were forced to take stock, and that is why Im writing this
book because, believe me, Ive been there. When I began to suffer from adrenal fatigue, as well as
Hashimoto's Disease (an auto-immune thyroid disease) and Pyrrole Disorder, I was so ill that I was
unable to function for over six months. This was in spite of my training and knowledge from my
BodyTalk practice.
Under the care of my doctor, my own BodyTalk practitioner, and my naturopath, I had to reassess all
of my commitments and make some major lifestyle changes in order to get back on deck. The result of
this important wake-up call was a renewed determination to take care of myself, because without my
health, I have nothing. Now, due to my wellness routine, Ive overcome the worst of my problems and
am enjoying greatly improved health.
This book came about as a result of the changes Im glad I made. Im going to show you how stress
can alert you to problems and prompt you to make changes that will cause you to grow and thrive. I
will show you how you can disconnect from the madness of 'busyness' and create more calm in your
life. As a result, youll feel more fulfilled, have increased energy and health, and enjoy better
relationships with your loved ones.
Its important to understand that your life is 100% your own responsibility and that its possible to
take your experiences and grow exponentially rather than blaming others and being a victim. Its easy
to justify all the unfair situations in life and use them to explain why youre stuck; however, this
denies you valuable lessons on the road to personal empowerment.
In my experience, there isnt a single solution for everything, just a series of small steps that together
contribute to a greater sense of well-being. Accordingly, Ill show you six simple techniques in this
book that, when practised regularly, will help you to find peace in your life, no matter what is going
on. Youll also find plenty of genuine common sense information that will help you get back to basics
quickly.
Hopping out of bed an hour earlier each morning to implement the techniques may seem difficult when
youre already sleep deprived. I promise, though, that if you commit to the principles Im going to
share with you and follow through with the 6 daily success rituals for at least 21 days, youll
experience major changes in your productivity and sense of well-being. Youll find that youre
healthier, more inspired, and more fulfilled.
I know that's a big promise, but if youre motivated enough, your family and friends will notice the
difference. Theyll wonder what youve been up to while theyve been sleeping in. Theyll want what
you have.
Finally, you might be wondering why Ive called this book The Benefits of Stress - it's because
without my own health breakdown, I wouldnt have implemented the permanent changes that will
ensure I live a long, healthy life. Now I wake with enthusiasm every morning, ready to be productive
towards my goals for the day ahead. Ive realised, as many already have done, that theres no growth
without challenge.
Furthermore, without my crisis, I wouldnt have been inspired to write this book for women who
are struggling with health issues. I want to share the concepts that are so effective for overcoming
stress in the hope that people can use them to empower their self- care and awaken their personal
inspiration.
This book represents the information I would love to have known sooner rather than later in life. Start
reading today so you can get up tomorrow morning and start your new, energised life.
I wish you an abundance of health, peace, and happiness.
Summary
We live in unprecedented times that require us to maintain our health and well-being in the face of
innovations that will, no doubt, bring stress. Our homes and workplaces will be very different in 20
years time, whether we like it or not.
With so much environmental change impacting on our bodymind, it is essential to manage stress well
because it can damage our immune system and severely impact both our physical and mental health.
At the same time, stress can be beneficial because it alerts us when something is wrong and engages
our instinct for survival. Through the recollection of past dangers, the stress response can keep us
safe from immediate harm. However, it is up to us to recognise the particular threat and make the
necessary changes that will bring us back to a state of calm.
In the following chapter, we will look at how the physical environment can create stress and impact
our physical health, and I will provide tips on how you can implement changes to help you reduce the
toxic load on your system. I will also introduce the first of the six Daily Success Rituals for living a
longer, healthier and more fulfilled life.
But before we go on, I invite you to take a moment to breathe consciously and evenly as you enjoy a
chance to energise yourself with oxygen before you continue.
Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than
by the ones you did do.
So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour.
Catch the trade winds in your sails.
Explore. Dream. Discover.
Mark Twain
Spinning around our sun every 365 days, spiralling through the Milky Way, somewhere in the midst of
the expanding infinite universe, over 7 billion of us live on this beautiful blue planet. Gazing at the
stars, especially when its a full moon, Im in total awe regarding our position in the cosmos, and
supremely grateful for this magical planet that supports us.
Its humbling to witness the extreme forces of nature when storms, earthquakes, and volcanic
eruptions reshape the Earths surface naturally. Its shocking, however, to see the destruction wreaked
by industrial disregard for delicate ecosystems when the profits of consumerism overshadow respect
for precious wildlife and their habitat.
I was fortunate to grow up in an Australian coastal landscape of immense volcanic beauty that
attracted the hippie generation to its heart in the 1960s-70s era. I saw colourful idealists protesting
vehemently to stop the rainforests from being logged. Deeply upset by the environmental destruction,
they found creative ways to express their anger. Courageously, they forfeited their legal rights as they
chained themselves to the ancient trees to stop the bulldozers from advancing on the rainforest and it
was a welcome surprise when they managed to save the trees and instigate an inquiry into forestry
protection.
I admired the greenies profound love of nature and their alignment with the natural cycles of the
seasons. Their dedication to the use of non-synthetic products as a way of being environmentally
friendly influenced my young mind, and I was awed by their determination to speak out about issues
related to the sustainability of our planet Earth. Their messages often expressed hostility towards the
ruling establishment; however, they were able to engage the support of communities through
colourful, creative protests wrapped in a strong message of peace. They made it clear that if we ruin
the very world that is meant to support us, we eventually risk facing our own extinction.
The waste and pollution of modern industry can ultimately damage our immune systems and cause a
build-up of unhealthy levels of stress within the body. This may push us to use clean energy resources
such as solar power, which has significantly less impact on the environment than fossil fuels. Thus, in
this chapter we will look at the potential dangers to our health lurking within our toxic surroundings
as well as the steps that we can take to keep our immune systems strong to avoid illness. Awareness
about these issues is intended to inform rather than frighten you, so that you can be proactive with
your wellness. To that end, I will also provide some practical tips to help you make changes to your
environment in order to improve your sense of well-being.
Allergies, autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, and autism have increased greatly in the last 20
years, and affect well-being and productivity. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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show a 120% increase in cases of autism in the 10 years from 2000 to 2010. Australia reflects
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Incidences of cancer have also increased exponentially in the last few decades. According to current
statistics from the American Cancer Society, 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women in the US receive a
diagnosis of cancer during their lifetime. It is worrying to see these numbers rising despite greater
funding for cancer research.
While we are programmed to shield ourselves from possible threats, we arent always aware of the
dangers that lurk unseen in foods that are sourced from contaminated ecosystems. Animals at the top
of the food chain can accumulate dangerous levels of toxins that, if consumed by us, accrue within our
body to challenge our immune systems. Certain fish are particularly prone to absorbing high levels of
mercury which, when ingested, have the potential to damage our DNA. The disruption of the cellular
repair processes of the body encourage the generation of mutant cells that cause disease, and have the
potential to eventually turn into cancer.
Likewise, invisible environmental radiation can affect healthy cells and cause illnesses that have a
debilitating impact on quality of life. Bombarded by toxins in our food, in our air and our surrounds,
it is vital that we nourish our immune system for optimum cellular performance so we can live a long
healthy life.
The Cancer Council of Australia has confirmed in a research publication that approximately one third
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of all diagnoses of cancer in Australia are actually preventable. In its extensive research, the CCA
study looked at the effects of tobacco smoke, alcohol, solar radiation, obesity, red and processed
meat, insufficient physical activity, and insufficient intake of fruit, vegetables, and fibre. All of these
factors were found to increase the probability of developing some form of cancer.
Poor nutrition is therefore a major contributing factor to illness. Part of the reason for worsening diets
is due to changes in work patterns and traditional household roles, with both men and women
spending extended time away from home. As a result, many families resort to buying convenience
foods that are, unfortunately, full of preservatives and chemicals to increase their shelf life. Sugar is
also a component of most pre-packaged foods, and cancer thrives on it.
Our internal microbiome thrives as you would expect on the diet of our ancestors, who habitually
consumed plenty of plants. We all have thousands of cells regenerating at any given time, but any
mutations are naturally kept under control by our militant immune system. Nevertheless, the way we
manage our stress levels and provide nutrition to our cells has an enormous impact on maintaining the
strength of our first line of defence and reducing the chances of mutant cell reproduction. With so
much serious illness occurring, its more important than ever to scrutinise our lifestyle choices and to
think of creative solutions that will enable us all to live a healthier life.
In the following chapter, well examine more deeply how diet can affect our health and how simple
changes can make tangible improvements to overall well-being. First, however, we will look at the
damage which is being caused both to the environment, and to our own health, by the proliferation of
chemicals and pollutants in our natural world.
With all this in mind, I have provided some practical solutions for changing your lifestyle and
environment in order to minimise the dangers they pose to your health.
Practical solutions
1) Use simple cleaning solutions for your home, for example, a soft, damp cloth rather than harsh
chemicals. Many natural cleaning solution websites promote the use of vinegar, lemon juice, and
Castile soap as the best ingredients to make your natural cleaning products. This will ensure that you
don't burden your immune system with more unnecessary toxins. Overuse of antibacterial cleansers is
also dangerous because these destroy the beneficial bacteria that we rely on for many biological
processes. Most of us have been brainwashed to have a terrible fear of germs, but we actually need to
have a certain amount of exposure to them to build up our resistance.
2) Ask your dentist to replace your amalgam fillings with non-BPA ceramic fillings, whilst using a
safe protocol that prevents digestion of discarded metal and inhalation of noxious fumes. One of the
components of amalgam fillings is mercury, a toxin that is known to cause serious health issues and
which damages the immune system.
3) A fascinating way to create a sense of calm and beauty in your home environment is by using Feng
Shui, an ancient Chinese art that enhances the flow of energy, known as chi. The placement of objects
can affect the health of a building's occupants and can be remedied by getting a Feng Shui Master in
for a personal consultation for your house, or by learning it yourself. For more information, see
Master George Benniss website http://www.thefengshuiadvantage.com.
According to Feng Shui, certain areas of your building are influenced by the Chinese Elements: Fire,
Earth, Metal, Water, and Wood. You can strengthen or diminish certain qualities of a building by
working with the layout of the Elements so that the flow of energy, such as abundance, for example, is
enhanced.
Keeping your environment clean and de-cluttered is vital for the movement of productive chi energy.
Getting rid of unnecessary objects feels therapeutic, and the energetic burden is released when you
increase your usable space.
Additionally, you can energetically clear your home from negativity by protecting yourself with
intentional prayers, placing crystals in strategic positions, burning incense or a sage stick, or spraying
lavender essence.
4) Be self-sufficient. Self-sufficiency is a great way to have a healthier lifestyle. Recycling whatever
you can to reduce your rubbish is a smart way to lessen your impact on the environment. Re-using and
re-purposing household items activates your creativity and makes you resourceful whilst increasing
your independence. An incredible satisfaction grows out of living a more sustainable, self-reliant
lifestyle. Your focus turns to what is possible rather than what is wrong, and because you feel more
relaxed, your stress levels settle down.
5) Gardening can be a great anti-depressant. Have you noticed how good it feels to get out into the
garden and get your hands dirty? Unfortunately, because packaged potting mixes now have a
compulsory warning about the potential risk of dangerous microbes, people have become afraid to
encourage their children to make mud pies from actual soil.
Gardening is a wonderful way to stay grounded, be creative, recycle, get some fresh air, and
guarantee that your food is fresh and wholesome. In fact, having a vegetable garden ticks many boxes
for de-stressing. Watching your produce grow is rewarding, and watering is relaxing. Caring for the
plants helps you to feel connected with the cycles of nature, and gets you back to basics as you feel
connected to the Earth whilst the plants are generating oxygen for the air.
As we live in artificial buildings, our vital energetic connection with the earth is compromised.
Without a backyard to get out and walk in, modern people are prone to living sedentary, ungrounded
lives that create health issues. To keep our cellular processes working properly, we must rely on our
physical connection to the Earth to recharge us.
Earthing, as its known, benefits our negatively charged bodies. When we spend too much time
indoors, being bombarded by positive ions from computers and invisible electromagnetic
frequencies, our energies become depleted. Our heart and brain function can become diminished and
fatigue may set in. When you get outside and walk on the Earth, its like recharging your battery.
Summary
From birth, our environment has a strong impact on both our mental and physical health, but
industrialisation has caused immense damage to it, with negative consequences for all living things.
Its challenging to find solutions to large-scale problems, but the stress generated by an unhealthy
environment can also stimulate our creativity as we search for solutions. Sometimes we need to
clarify what we dont want before we can embrace a new paradigm that grows from a more holistic
vision.
There are many practical steps we can take to minimise our footprint so that we dont squander our
precious resources. For example, we can build energy saving, environmentally friendly houses by
sourcing durable, sustainable materials. We can become more self-sufficient by growing an organic
food forest and vegetable garden. We can enjoy crafting our home wares from recycled materials and
creating our dcor by being resourceful.
Being mindful of our impact on wildlife and native flora can provide interests to pass on to future
generations. An appreciation for natures delicate balance fills one with wonder and gratitude for the
opportunity to live on the incredible planet that is our home.
I hope that youre not overwhelmed by the environmental challenges that I have outlined. Instead, I
trust that you have increased your determination to strengthen your lifestyle choices in order to live a
long happy life. When you become inspired because of your stresses and in spite of your limitations,
you can overcome negativities by feeling satisfied that you made the most of difficult situations.
Now is a good time to clarify your long term goals so that you can avoid distractions and stay focused
on living a purposeful life. Goal setting is a periodic ritual, best done at significant intervals: yearly,
half-yearly or monthly, for example. This is discussed in more detail in Chapter 7. Many people make
verbal New Years resolutions, but for a goal to manifest, it needs to be written down and reviewed
daily with dedicated creative focus.
The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about
the future, or anticipate troubles
but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly.
Buddha
We have already seen how stress upsets the bodys ability to stay healthy, as well as how it has been
useful in helping humans to survive. Going forward, you should view your stress as a wake-up call
that will inspire you to change and improve. You can make it your friend, your feedback mechanism
to test the boundaries of a healthy lifestyle.
One great story from my grandmother that inspires me endlessly was her reaction to her diagnosis of
cancer when she was a mother with young children. After being told it was terminal, she refused to
acknowledge the death sentence by saying, I havent got time for this. She lived until the age of 103.
Her diet was regularly comprised of raw cabbage, brown rice, and wholemeal bread. When I look
back with my knowledge about healthy eating, I realise that she was most certainly ahead of her time.
In this chapter, well look at how a good diet, plenty of sleep, and regular exercise can reduce the
negative impacts of stress and keep our bodies and minds healthy.
According to Dr Laura Stuve, Ph.D., a molecular biologist who worked on the Human Genome
Project for many years, and is now an Advanced Certified BodyTalk Instructor, our bodies are
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biologically hardwired for a world that no longer matches our lifestyles. We were designed to
consume much more fruit and vegetables than is contained in our modern carbohydrate-loving diet.
Furthermore, Dr Bruce Lipton explains in his bookThe Biology of Belief that the cells in the body
respond favourably to healthy nutrition and influences such as positive thoughts, whilst shrinking from
5
toxins like heavy metals. His research shows that cells are actually driven by their outer membrane,
not the nucleus, as was previously thought. They change structure in reaction to the electromagnetic
signals that deliver information from the surrounding biological environment. Dr Lipton concludes
from this that positive and negative beliefs control our biology. We are therefore not victims of our
genetic heritage unless our environment and beliefs challenge our cellular status quo.
This is good news as it allows us to override our inherited DNA coding through conscious acts of
self-care. Just because my father had bowel cancer does not automatically mean that I will develop it
too, as my genetic markers for the disposition won't switch on unless the conditions are ripe. This
highlights the importance of eating good, nutritious food and keeping a calm body and mind in order
to maintain optimal health.
We all share our lives with more than 40,000 different bugs, each one playing its part in a complex
matrix that is mutually beneficial when we are healthy. Imbalances within the body's ecology place
stress on the immune system and create health issues. We need to feed our microbiome, the millions
of bugs that live harmoniously within us, with high-energy food, so that the delicate balance of our
digestive tract is maintained as nature intended.
Our bodies struggle when we only eat processed foods. All of our systems become stressed when our
intestines clog up with matter that is difficult to digest and holds little nutritional value. We starve our
microbiome and develop illnesses like leaky gut syndrome. This is preventable, but once it starts, it
can be difficult to manage, a bit like the proverbial genie that was let out of the bottle. Becoming
proactive about what is going into your body can save your digestive system from further
aggravations, although it can take a high degree of diligence and patience before you eventually
formulate a diet that doesn't inflame your gut.
Unless youre buying products from a small local business, foods that are pre-packaged generally
have an extended shelf life because of added preservatives. When you read the label on processed
foods, be sure to check out the additive and preservative numbers so that you can make an informed
decision about your choice. In my opinion, fresh foods without labels and numbers are much cleaner
for the body to digest and are less prone to causing allergic reactions.
Checking for additives is especially important for people who have become sensitive to them because
of body chemistry upsets. If you have limits on what you can eat because of allergies or sensitivities,
a focus on fresh, local, seasonal food is especially important. Your body needs the opportunity to
release toxins and irritations that interrupt the healing process in your gut.
When I was terribly sick with food intolerances, I used the guidance of a dietician to eliminate all
foods that upset me. Once my diet was restricted to safe foods, I reintroduced other foods one by
one to see if I reacted negatively or not. If I reacted and for me that meant monitoring whether the
glands in my neck swelled I would be careful to avoid eating the item again until I regained my
health. Paying attention to my bodys stress forced me to learn about nutrition and I expanded my
knowledge about healthy food choices in order to improve my well-being as quickly as possible.
It depends on your individual circumstances, but, I always think that common sense is a good guide. If
you know that something upsets you, no matter how great it tastes, don't eat it. It's that simple. Also,
be on the lookout for high sugar and fructose content, as this disrupts the body's metabolism via the
pancreas, and can set up inflammatory responses within the body. Cancer cells feed off sugar, so with
that in mind, use it very cautiously if you cant eliminate it altogether.
When you focus on the consumption of fresh, organic whole foods, youll gain beneficial nutrients
from your diet that energise your body efficiently at a cellular level. This will happen particularly if
you include a good amount of raw food.
Supplying the body with fresh pure drinking water is also essential for health. Because 90% of the
content of the body is water, we would be well advised to keep the supplies up so that we can
hydrate the cells and flush out toxins. To do this, we need to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water per day.
So, whether you eat meat, are a vegetarian or a vegan, or follow the Paleo diet, please make sure you
eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as getting enough protein and drinking enough water. Try
to avoid genetically modified foods and eat a wide variety of naturally colourful foods, especially
greens, to truly reap the benefits. There may be room for a few treats but only in moderation.
Your microbiome is relying on you to feed it well!
Very often, an insomniac will visit a doctor after their sleep deprivation has led to bad mood, anxiety,
and depression, as well as headaches and digestive problems. They may also be self medicating by
drinking alcohol to dull the pain and deal with their stress. The doctor may prescribe medication for
the patient's different symptoms and send them on their way without tackling the underlying issues that
created the stress in the first place. If so, the patient has begun a journey of masking the problems
through a lifetime reliance on pharmaceutical products.
If you choose to see a doctor about your symptoms, be sure to look for one who practices integrative
health. A doctor of this sort may prescribe non-pharmaceutical remedies first, putting you in a great
position to maintain control of your future health. If you ask them to take some baseline blood tests,
they can establish your overall situation, and then study your sleep patterns for referral to a sleep
specialist if necessary.
Summary
I have demonstrated the importance of caring for the physical body by maintaining a healthy diet full
of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as ensuring you get enough sleep and exercise. Listen to the
messages that stress delivers and apply them to make changes to your lifestyle and habits. Use them to
grow as a person, and become wiser as a result.
While caring for your physical body is of prime importance, it is also imperative to maintain a
healthy mind, as Dr. Liptons research suggests. Accordingly, it is interesting to note that in
Traditional Chinese Medicine, the brain and the gut are also closely linked. In the
next
chapter,
therefore, youll read about the powerful effect that the mindset has on your wellness.
*Name has been changed for privacy.
Its critically important to know and believe in yourself for a deep sense of purpose.
process past trauma, reach out to a qualified therapist, such as a BodyTalk practitioner, who can help
you resolve your issues and overcome your obstacles.
most powerful long-term way to make a date with your future potential. Olympic athletes have been
known to do visual meditations during training to improve their performance, imagining themselves
on the winner's podium accepting gold medals.
Harvard University did a study on the benefits of meditation in 2011 and found that cognitive and
psychological performance associated with memory, sense of self, empathy, and stress was
7
significantly improved when the participants meditated for at least 20 minutes per day. Apparently it
didn't matter whether the time was in one block of 20 minutes or broken into shorter intervals over a
number of sittings.
This is a significant finding because it indicates that meditation is an investment in your own interests
and passions. If you spend the time meditating, you reap the rewards from increased productivity over
a longer period. When you consider that, sleeping in every morning is easy to give up against the
benefits of a 20-minute meditation.
Many people enjoy subliminal recordings to retrain the brain for greater productivity, improved
health, or to overcome hurdles, such as fear. There are many of these readily available online.
Whether you listen to a professional recording or simply count your breath whilst imagining the
spectrum of rainbow colours is up to you. There is no best way, only what suits you.
Meditation also gives you the opportunity to scan your own body so that you can get an understanding
of the underlying issues related to energetic imbalances within. There is always a message to learn
from emotional upsets such as a broken heart, now known to cause physical pain. When you can
locate the presence of stress in your body, you can focus on its release so that you can heal.
Not everyone thinks they want to spend time looking within, but if you want to target your lifes
passions, self-inquiry is an absolute necessity for fulfilment. You owe it to the miracle of your
existence not to squander your time. No matter what skill you possess, bring it out of yourself so that
others can share your achievements.
The use of powerful affirmations, as well as meditation, trains your thoughts to concentrate on the
things you prefer, rather than the things that annoy you. A negative spiral of thinking can drag your
mood and confidence down quickly if you don't make a constant effort to thwart unproductive
thoughts.
5) Help others
Being of service to others is one of the most rewarding things you can do, so if your family and
friends aren't in need of your help, find a service club or join a group of volunteers. There is no better
remedy for taking your mind off your own troubles than helping others in greater need.
6) Keep your brain active through learning
According to recent understandings of the neuroplasticity of the brain, the neural pathways rewire
according to their use, and continue to forge new links as long as they are active and healthy.
Complex skills that require learning, planning, and implementation discharge the neurons. Eventually
the electrical charges push new pathways through the brain and rewire its abilities. This means that
you can continue learning new things throughout life by engaging in exercises that utilise the brain.
To stay mentally alert, do everything possible to keep the brain as stimulated as possible over your
lifetime. This is also the best way to delay any sign of dementia. Excellent activities for improving
cognitive function include: learning a new language, going ballroom dancing, enjoying crossword
puzzles, or taking up a musical instrument.
Improving the function of the brain builds the neural networks and subsequently provides greater
resilience to stress. With increased mental capacity, we can recognise the early signs of stress as it
stimulates us to make beneficial changes for our overall sense of fulfilment. Our challenges force us
away from complacency and offer change as a valuable alternative for transforming our life for the
better.
Summary
It is important to keep your mind active and guard your thoughts, because your spirit is precious. One
negative thought is enough to undo all the positive work that you are doing, so be vigilant with your
mindset and practice meditating every day. Stress reminds you that you are outside your comfort zone,
and gives you the opportunity to find a way to accept things as they are or consciously embrace the
change that comes with inner personal growth.
Human behavioural expert John Demartini has wisely said, When the voice on the inside is greater
and louder than all those on the outside, you have begun to master your life. When you prioritise your
own dreams and passions, your soul becomes nourished, and this in turn has a beneficial effect on the
people around you as you share your true self.
The next chapter will address the emotional aspects of wellness for better self-care. We will see that
our thoughts are largely influenced by our emotions, and that when we feel in control of our emotions,
we can be confident we will act appropriately regardless of the situation.
community, and how bad relationships and early experiences can leave us with emotional problems
that hold us back from having a truly happy and fulfilled life.
Well start with an experiment that shows the power of emotions on water, and by extension, the
human body.
showed water's ability to change at a structural level according to the emotions projected onto it.
From this we can draw the conclusion that, because human beings consist of 90% water, our bodies
respond to emotions on a physiological level.
After I'd seen Dr. Emoto present his research at a lecture in Brisbane, my daughter Kate and I set up
our own experiment to test the work of Dr. Emoto. We used two identical jars, each with the exact
same measurement of rice and water. We placed a label on each jar. On one jar we wrote, I love
you, and on the other jar we wrote, I hate you.
Each day Kate and I would take both of the jars down from the shelf and read the labels out loud. We
would then replace the jars until the next day. We did this for three weeks. At the end of the
experiment, it was astounding to see that the jar that heard I love you managed to retain clear water,
whereas the jar that we said I hate you to had broken down the mixture of rice and water into a
murky soup. We were amazed at the tangible results that showed up when the only difference between
each jar was the phrase that we spoke aloud.
Dr. Emoto included a third jar in his original experiment, which was completely ignored during the
process. Apparently it finished with the murkiest water of all, and this result suggested that being
hated is energetically better than being totally ignored.
This simple experiment shows how important it is to devote time to our own goals so that we feel
happy and fulfilled. It also shows that we should do our best to shield ourselves from other peoples
negative emotions.
about human behaviour and how to get along with others. Hopefully, we learn to respectfully treat
others as we would like to be treated ourselves.
10
11
are Inspired Destiny by Dr John F. Demartini and The Answer by John Assaraf and Murray Smith.
I also recommend you find a mentor or personal coach who encourages you whilst validating your
experiences, so that you can feel supported as you grow through your challenges. There is no right
way to proceed, as long as your determination is encouraged and you take action towards your
personal growth. Be invested in your health and well-being on all levels so that you don't continue to
perpetuate the same subconscious issues.
Knowing yourself through personal growth is extremely important if you wish to break through your
perceived limitations. Unless you realise what your underlying motivations are, life is just a series of
reactions to your subconscious beliefs. Your childhood programming is essentially in charge of your
future. When you become aware of why you behave in certain ways, you can process your emotional
baggage and make new choices. This enables you to forgive yourself for your previous responses.
Being able to sit alone quietly is a learned skill that subdues the insecurities in the face of life's
challenges. The journey within is of vital importance to thrive in this world, and the opportunities to
have a life you love are greatest when you know and respect all aspects of your true self.
Stress occurs when you arent living in accordance with your highest values. Feeling out of balance
emotionally is a good indicator that self-reflection is required to check in with your priorities and
goals.
Summary
What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. This is a well-known saying and points to our ability to
overcome our emotional traumas by learning from them. Some people turn them into gold nuggets of
wisdom that determine who they are in a powerful way. The unexpected hurts of life can make us
well-rounded, more compassionate people who have healthy relationships as well as a strong sense
of self-care and independence.
Its great to feel proud of yourself when you have firm boundaries and healthy relationships with high
calibre people. Never defer your values or be dependent on someone else at the expense of yourself.
If you notice yourself behaving in an unhealthy way, observe your reactions and investigate your
underlying motivations, taking full responsibility for the emotional disturbance, as it provides a
mirror to your being. Don't blame others for your life. Its disempowering and denies you the
opportunity for a major breakthrough towards your emotional strength. Use your stress to awaken your
priorities so that you can focus on your personal fulfilment. You will be surprised at how your life
will inspire others.
When you view your emotions as internal feedback, without allowing them to dominate your
responses, you will have a more relaxed approach to life. Likewise, when you see other peoples
emotional dramas as their unique opportunity to grow, its possible to be supportive without stifling
their ability to learn.
Spiritual wisdom grows from releasing your emotional baggage. When we feel like we understand
why things are the way they are, we can ponder the philosophical questions that come from an
inquiring mind. Sitting quietly to contemplate lifes experiences will be discussed in the next chapter
as we make sense of inspiration and spirituality in relation to health and well-being.
*Name changed to protect privacy
Spiritual belief
Before I begin discussing spirituality, I would like to explain that I dont personally subscribe to any
particular religious creed. As a small child, I witnessed righteous judgement directed against my
mother by the minister of the local church in the small country town community where I grew up. That
coloured my view of the institution of church. I saw my mother as hard working and virtuous, and she
didnt deserve to be ostracised through their lack of compassion and understanding.
Through this experience, I learned that the morals and ethics of the self-righteous are often
questionable and hypocritical. My mother simply said to me, My God is a loving God, and I have
held firmly to that belief all of my life, knowing that each one of us has a direct link to universal
divinity that can be accessed at any time without the assistance of a middle-man.
Community groups gather under the banners of numerous religions, but it isnt necessary to be a
member of a church to be spiritual. The way I see it, spirituality refers to the core essence of a
person. Its the connection with the divine matrix that energises the universe and unites us with all
matter. Its the light that is left when the physical body passes. Its the space in which we are one.
Spirituality does not require a building or a mediator to facilitate communication with a higher
power. We are all worthy of love, no matter who we are and what we have done. Each one of us is
personally accountable for our treatment of others. I prefer to focus on being kind and accepting, fully
aware that I also have the capacity to be cruel and judgemental if I allow my emotions to get the better
of me. None of us is perfect. That is why we are on the human plane rather than in the spiritual realm.
As long as we do our best, we are fulfilling our destiny.
Its my belief that our souls manifest in the physical human form so that we can learn our lessons in
life. We come into this world to resolve our karmic lessons, and during this process our soul finds the
best teachers for us, especially when we are stressed. We attract the best people and experiences to
learn how to overcome and manage the dramas of life so that we can get back on track and focus on
our goals.
Consciousness is the underlying fabric of the universe, formulating our interaction between dreams
and reality. Once we begin to see connection and order in our world, and possibilities emerge from
our dreams, we learn about consequences. And when we accept the consequences of our own
decisions, it empowers us to be vigilant with the precious time we have left on this planet. By
concentrating on what we want from life, our brain starts to highlight the things were focusing on and
disregards the rest. We will start to see our goals manifesting.
The most usual pathways to spiritual development that we hear about are prayer, meditation, and
service to others. Spiritually aware people make peace with their inner selves by accepting all of
their positive and negative traits. They then become free to utilise their natural talents in a way that is
of benefit to others. If you spend your time contributing to the development and growth of society, it
becomes possible to overcome selfish behaviour and free yourself from an egocentric focus.
Spiritual growth comes from understanding that were more than flesh, blood, and bones. In my
experience, most people are motivated by a desire to live a good life and help others, characteristics
that often align with the support network of a community. Hope is a fundamental building block for
spiritual faith. Together, hope and faith encourage people to dig deep in times of chaos and crisis,
spurring individuals to bond in the absence of tangible outcomes.
Many great spiritual leaders, such as Mother Teresa and Mahatma Ghandi, spent their lives serving
the needs of others, doing thankless work that required selfless devotion. The act of service becomes
the prayer, the moving meditation that generates a humble centre of gratitude. An act of kindness can
make a huge difference to a suffering person and lift their spirits beyond the mundane. When
someones stress is alleviated, it is not unusual for that person to become inspired and set new
personal goals to help others in a similar fashion. Spiritual satisfaction is activated through
compassion, as it creates a sense of unconditional love.
As I said in the introduction, we are 100% responsible for our own circumstances and for taking good
care of our bodymind whilst were here. When we blame others for our problems, it denies our spirit
the opportunity for personal growth and accountability. When we realise that we are answerable for
our reactions to life's challenges, opportunities are created for us to detach from the chaos and enjoy
the journey of spiritual learning. The wise person knows what they have to be grateful for, rather than
harping on about what they think is missing.
Being present to the spiritual aspects of life helps us to understand that everything in our world is
actually in order. When spiritual contemplation is part of our lifestyle, we can begin to observe
without judgement, through our understanding that there is a divine balance playing out in the world
within and around us.
When we bring spiritual awareness to our own thoughts and behaviour, we can detach from stress and
relax by being present. When we are conscious of our stress, we notice that situations in life press
our buttons. By taking the time to reflect on these challenges we begin to understand why we operate
according to certain subconscious priorities that emerge through our values. Through these insights
our spirit is directed by our values towards our goals and our personal growth.
happiness in your life. By flooding the body with endorphins, feel-good chemicals that help us to
relax and release our troubles, we replace negativity with a more positive outlook.
Keeping a daily gratitude journal is therefore a powerful method for banishing stress and depression.
This simple activity, where you write down 5 things that youre grateful for each day, boosts the
neurotransmitters of the brain stem region with dopamine, which works as an antidepressant.
Gratitude releases serotonin into the anterior cingulate cortex and that increases emotional
intelligence, thus enabling us to process our issues.
Additionally, gratitude for the complexities of life's lessons can empower us to navigate our
challenges with purpose. Its a welcome feeling to be on track, living your life on your terms, happy
regardless of the events around you.
If we lose sight of our goals its vital to search within our souls quietly, to open a dialogue with the
universal forces, in order to reacquaint ourselves with our essence. Whether you speak by intentional
prayer to the Creator, God, Allah, Buddha, the Universe, Angels, or by connecting with cosmic
powers, you can get back to basics through your desire for simplicity and energise your bodymind at
the same time.
Summary
A positive aspect of stress is that when you have uncovered its message, it will help you to focus on
your goals. If you accept that we are all living to the best of our ability and learning our spiritual
lessons, you can stop worrying, relieved by the knowledge that everything is actually in order.
When each one of us chooses to take full responsibility for our lives, while practicing gratitude and
compassion for others, the consciousness of our world will expand. Everyone has issues that need
attention in this multifaceted world. By releasing our judgements and negativity, we lighten our spirit
and improve our personal energy for healing.
In the following chapter, we will look at another way to improve your productivity and reduce your
stress levels: managing your time effectively.
*Name changed for privacy purposes.
between successful people and unsuccessful people is reading their goals aloud every day. So read
your goals out loud every morning with focus and intention. Keeping these ideas fresh in your mind
reminds the brain about your priorities and will ensure that you take action towards your dreams. If
youre a visual person, you may prefer to create a dream board, where you stick up photos and
images of your ideal life for you to look at each day as you generate enthusiasm for your goals.
While your thoughts are still focused on your big plans, write a list every morning of your 7 highestpriority action steps for fulfilling your greatest desires that day and focus on getting these done. If you
hit resistance to completing a task, it will alert you to something you don't really want to do or, more
likely, a fear that is getting in the way of your goals. For these more challenging blockages I suggest
you get some mentoring to help you overcome your fears. Hiring someone to do this will get you
further with your goals faster, but you could also find a friend who is happy to be your accountability
buddy.
A word of warning: if you have a goal that doesn't align with your personal values, you will not be
able to proceed until you find a reason to value it. You will struggle, for example, if you want an
intimate relationship but you don't like yourself. You will attract people who reflect this lack of love
and respect back to you. Learn to love yourself by meditating every morning, valuing your talents, and
connecting to your essential desires.
3) When you get stuck, reach out to your mentor, family, or friends to gain a clearer perspective of the
situation. Usually, we have limited beliefs that keep us playing small, and gentle encouragement can
make all the difference.
Tell your close friends that what youre doing is important for you so that you reach your potential. If
they don't support you, limit your contact and spend time with people who are excited by your
dreams. Surround yourself with like-minded, successful people, as they will reflect your aspirations
back to you in positive ways.
4) Always keep a notepad nearby, so that if you remember something you need to take care of, you
can write it down and look at it later without unnecessarily disturbing your day. Then when you check
it you can order it into a list according to urgency and priority.
5) Resist the temptation to flop down in front of the television at night. Commercial television is
designed to keep us entertained and informed between the temptations of the advertisers. The world
of advertising is designed to motivate people to buy more products, and in order to do that they focus
on pain and dissatisfaction. Trying to keep up with current trends also makes people feel stressed and
overwhelmed because they are on the treadmill of trying to do too much in order to service their
consumer lifestyle. If you find yourself dissatisfied with your life, particularly if you have a job or
lifestyle that doesn't reflect your dreams, there can be an internal rebellion against the world that
generates a great deal of stress.
When we resist this need to subdue our restless dissatisfaction with life by turning off the television
and disregarding the collective media, we gain invaluable time to focus on our personal future. This
is far more satisfying and rewarding.
6) Resist the urge to answer emails endlessly. Set a time to look through them, like last thing in the
afternoon. Social media is another drain on your time that needs careful management.
7) Don't allow other peoples dramas to dominate and contaminate your dreams. Learn how to say no
to other peoples requests if they don't align with your goals. Its good to remember that people who
rely on others to fix their problems miss out on their own opportunity to learn and grow. So don't feel
guilty. Consider how you will feel at the end of your life when you haven't enjoyed your unique
talents and shared them with the world.
8) Don't underestimate the immediate value of going for a walk each day. Get up earlier, starting
tomorrow morning, and go for a 20-minute walk to practice being mindful and stretch your body.
Exercise, even when its a gentle stroll, helps us to process our emotions, particularly our
frustrations, and energises our body and mind for a fresh start to each new day.
9) Meditate for 20 minutes each morning so that you can be in touch with your essence and clear away
emotional clutter. If you can't spend 20 minutes at a time, do two 10-minute meditations or even four
5-minute meditations over the course of the day. However you factor this time in, know that it makes a
huge difference to your ability to concentrate and feel at peace with yourself.
Summary
Once you are organised in your mind and on paper, the single greatest thing that will carry you to your
dreams is action. Rising above theory and implementing your plans on a daily basis will see the focus
of your life turn towards your accomplishments. When you are passionate about what you are doing,
you will want to keep working at it. Giving up will not be an option. You will be inspired to go out of
your way to overcome challenges in pursuit of your dreams.
The more disciplined you are when it comes to organising your day, the more time you get to spend on
the things you love. Unless you schedule time to do what you enjoy, your day will be interrupted by
other problems, and your dreams can become delayed indefinitely.
As you have seen, organisation is crucial to personal productivity, as it removes the stress of
watching your life evaporate without reward. When you pursue your goals, you get a sense of
satisfaction that can result in financial success.
How you manage money also relates directly to your self-worth, so its good to understand any
limitations that you might experience regarding your success. This is a subject we will turn to in the
next chapter.
Money as energy
The urbanisation of the western world saw a move away from the bartering systems of rural
communities, where people often traded their produce and services in the local village. When people
migrated from the country to large towns and cities in search of work, they were looking for a better
life. However, unskilled labourers often worked long hours for wages that barely covered their basic
costs for food and lodging.
Money has become the most universal form of exchange for goods and services across the globe.
Initially, currency took the form of coins that were made from precious metals such as gold and
silver. Their value was dependent on the actual weight of the metal. The concept of paper money
began in medieval England, when it became impractical for large amounts of coinage to be carried
around personally. Instead, goldsmiths began to issue receipts in exchange for the safe-keeping of
coins.
The receipts evolved to become promissory notes as they were more convenient and safer to carry
around than coins. Eventually the notes became transferrable without the need for an authorising
signature or the gold reserves to underlie their value. As the modern banking and lending system has
developed with the advent of computers, massive amounts of money are transferred digitally,
allowing currencies to be moved around the globe today at the speed of light.
It is becoming unusual for modern customers who purchase goods and services from commercial
businesses, to pay with cash. Coins and notes have been superseded by technology since our bank
balances became accessible through plastic cards that live conveniently in our wallets. The currency
of exchange that we know as money has been reduced to a bunch of numbers on a screen. There is no
longer an actual vault that contains a pile of money with your name attached.
When we realise that money has intrinsically become an energy that circulates, and that it really is
just pieces of paper or metal with numbers that have an agreed value, we realise it has been bestowed
with an importance greater than its probable worth. Money itself is only valuable when it can buy
something we want. It is simply a means of exchange whose value adjusts according to the demands
of the global market.
Despite the popular saying, money is not intrinsically the root of all evil. Its an energy that amplifies
who you are as a person. A selfish or greedy person may thus hoard assets for the sake of
accumulation, whereas a generous person will always be thinking about how they can help others.
Most people have strong belief systems around money, often depending upon how wealthy their
family were when they were growing up. Someone who has not struggled financially will have a very
different belief system to someone who grows up being told, Money doesn't grow on trees.
Wealthy people can be more relaxed about their spending patterns because the basic means of
survival is not a pressing issue unless they have cash-flow restrictions. They are not usually as
focused as a working class family is on keeping a roof over their heads or feeding their household, so
they can choose how they will spend their extra capital. This freedom of choice can be the envy of
someone who is caught in the rat race, tired and worried about paying the bills.
Worrying endlessly about a lack of money can make us unproductive and sick. When we notice the
stress levels about finances rising, its helpful to switch our thoughts to seeing the value of what we
do have rather than focusing on whats missing. For example, having quality time to spend with your
children is priceless.
Those with wealth are openly admired by society, as their success is obvious for everyone to see.
However, wealth, just like poverty, doesnt guarantee good character and doesnt automatically mean
that financial success equates to personal growth. If you are poor and unhappy, there is every chance
that becoming wealthy will see you being rich and unhappy. Many marriages made in an attempt to
scale socioeconomic positioning have ended in disaster, and we have all read headlines in the media
about someone who has everything but who is miserable, living in a loveless relationship. Or well
see stories on the other hand, about someone who has lost everything but is emotionally rich and
grateful to be alive being supported by their community.
In spite of money being simply an energy that circulates through the trade of goods and services, it has
also become a direct reflection of self worth. A wealthy person who doesn't worry about the cost of
living may feel much better about themselves than someone who feels stress and shame because they
struggle to survive. A wise person values opportunities that challenge and encourage them to set new
goals by utilising their personal talents to build a business or work towards a more fulfilling career.
Self-made millionaires are confident because they never lose the skills or the drive required to make
money and they are in no doubt about their capabilities.
In the same light, someone who earns a minimum wage can lack the self worth to ask for a pay rise if
they fear they may lose what they already have. Unfortunately, concepts about wealth are complicated
by many cultural stories of greed and loss, and insecurities override confidence because of
someones limited beliefs when it comes to asking for more.
If someone is not accustomed to having large sums of money, they may well spend it carelessly
without setting up investments and legacies that are self-perpetuating. Or, they might wisely invest but
then be duped by an unscrupulous investment scheme or financial adviser who fleeces them with
carefully selected propaganda.
You hear of lottery winners who are broke again two years after they win millions of dollars. It
seems like an impossible loss, an irresponsible waste. Onlookers always believe that they would
manage better given the same opportunity. The rapid depletion of the prize occurs because the
winners belief systems about worthiness don't change with the overnight wealth.
I knew a young woman who won $2 million on a lottery ticket, an incredible amount of money twenty
years ago. Obviously, her financial position, her lifestyle and her popularity improved exponentially
overnight. A few years later, as a friend of her brother, I heard that her investments had stalled.
The inexperienced young woman and her family were targeted by property developers who
convinced them to buy some risky property investments. The expected capital growth had diminished
within 5 years. To intensify the young womans pain, the friendships she had enjoyed prior to the win
were also compromised. She struggled to recognise genuine friendships amidst her rise in popularity,
as people were attracted to her wealth. Im sure that was more painful to her than the loss of the
financial fortune.
one of your goals or when a project is successful, especially when it is a job you started a long time
ago.
4) Develop a healthy attitude to money. Mindset is closely related to our attitudes about money.
Knowing that, I would encourage you to have a healthy relationship with your finances. Understand
that wealth is energetic by nature: easy come, easy go. Millionaires who make headlines by becoming
bankrupt often return to their previous level of wealth within a couple of years. This is because they
have a confident mindset that is orientated towards accumulating money.
I encourage you to value money's abundance in your life by saving it, but don't be so afraid of losing it
that you hold onto it too tightly. If you make a mistake and forfeit money in an investment, understand
what you would do differently given the same circumstances but with the new information. Learn
through your mistakes. We all make them, so forgive yourself for not being perfect and move on with
the knowledge that some lessons are priceless.
5) Be wary before investing your sums. Remember, if something looks too good to be true, it usually
is. Scrutinise all deals with a discerning eye. Modern scams are extremely sophisticated, so do your
homework by speaking to as many professionals as you can in the related field. You can also go
online and get quite a bit of information by asking questions in relevant forums.
Learn to manage your own money rather than completely trusting financial planners, who often only
sell products in which they have a vested interest. Its good to listen to their ideas to find out what
they know about the marketplace, but then use your own common sense. Speak to as many people as
you can to increase your knowledge. Don't shy away from asking the tax department, accountants, and
bookkeepers to help you get your finances organised legally.
6) Make sure you get your tax returns submitted on time every year. It saves a lot of anxiety if you
have it done by a competent accountant, who can also advise you on ways to legally save on tax. Tax
laws change frequently and require an expert to keep up to date. Get a bookkeeper to set up some
spreadsheets for you to simplify the accounts and keep running files.
7) Donate money to charitable causes. Wealthy people understand the benefits of tithing a certain
proportion of their income to helping others. In addition to the tax incentives, giving away your money
feels really good. For an extra level of satisfaction, don't tell anyone. The adage the more you give
the more you get has genuine substance to it when you realise that its really not about the money. Its
especially satisfying to be rewarded for solving problems for other people.
If your only motivation is money, you will probably feel stressed trying to hang on to it, and your
health might become compromised. When you arent well, your money gets spent on expensive
medical treatments as you realise that you would pay anything to feel healthy again. Its important to
engage with life and love what you do; otherwise your growth and development become stifled by
angst.
Summary
I urge you to get your finances in order, to heed the call of stress when money worries have started to
overwhelm you. Learn to value your life and time rather than money for its own sake, and discover
how letting go of it to help others can make you feel a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfilment.
Once you have begun to manage your money successfully, review your goals and see if you want to
include any new ones. Above all, make sure you value yourself, your dreams, and your aspirations.
Treat yourself with the utmost respect, as you would your best friend. When youre certain of who
you are and what your goals entail, your inner confidence will guide you towards experiencing
success and abundance in your life. Abundance becomes a concept across all areas of life, and is not
limited simply to wealth. When we feel happy, we are blessed.
Engaging with the 6 Daily Success Rituals helps us to focus on a mindset that is perfect for
maximising our productivity every day, and I will summarise them for you in the next and final
chapter. Practised regularly, they are the key to health, wealth, and happiness, giving you a great start
to your productive day and a joyous life.
Happiness is not having what you want, but wanting what you have.
Rabbi Hyman Judah Schachtel
For anyone who has experienced a wake-up call brought on by too much stress, there's no better time
to start practicing a healthier lifestyle than today. In a supportive environment, the body can repair
itself quickly from its cellular blueprint, providing the building blocks of the DNA haven't been
damaged irreparably by toxins, injury, or disease.
The body responds well to a holistic approach to healing. Rather than relying solely on
pharmaceutical medication as a quick-fix magic pill, wellness is more sustainable over the long term
when healthy lifestyle changes are implemented. Conscious effort that is directed towards nurturing
yourself gives you a sense of achievement, especially when you can see and feel improvements as
they happen. You appreciate the complexities of the human body and mind, particularly when
combined with gratitude. When you prioritise your self-care, you revitalise your dreams.
Daily rituals are the key to wellness, and in this chapter I will explain how the 6 Daily Success
Rituals helped me, in conjunction with my own team of medical and natural healthcare practitioners,
to regain my energy. I know that my thoughts and personal efforts will enable me to achieve my goal
of living and long and healthy life, and I hope that my story inspires you.
As I mentioned in Chapter 1, I recently began to suffer from Hashimoto's Disease and Pyrrole
Disorder. When it began, I felt so sick that I was prepared to do whatever necessary to re-establish
my well-being. As a natural healthcare practitioner, I was shocked when my energy levels dropped to
such a low level, but I knew that my recovery would be amplified by my own efforts to restore
balance. I was determined to actively participate in my personal wellness process, and grateful that I
had the wisdom to take action.
Leading up to my diagnosis, I had been through a period of severe stress, which I believe tipped my
metabolism over the edge. I had also previously experienced chronic fatigue for about a decade after
an episode of glandular fever which had followed the lead poisoning. During that time I had
developed many intolerances within my body chemistry. As a result, I was restricted to eating a small
number of foods so that the glands in my neck wouldn't swell up as I ate. I lived with that for a
number of years, and as my body gradually became stronger, my food choices slowly increased.
So when I got sick recently, I already had a reasonably clean eating regime, although I still ate gluten
regularly without realising that my digestive system couldn't process it. I had felt lethargic over a long
period of time, and my body ached, but I put it down to stress and middle age. It wasn't until I
received my first blood tests back from my doctor that I realised just how compromised my health
was. I wondered how long it would take for me to recover.
My doctor, who I continue to see regularly, warned me that it would be a slow process to regain my
vitality. With that in mind, I decided that I would do everything possible to speed my recovery. Using
my natural health knowledge, I worked with my doctor's expertise to maximise my chances for a
faster revival.
Each month after I was first diagnosed, I had BodyTalk treatments and I went to see my naturopath. I
juiced daily, ate only fresh food, stopped buying pre-packaged goods, drinking coffee, and eating
chocolate, and eradicated gluten and lactose from my diet. I had already avoided food with added
sugar and alcohol for years.
Specifically for the Hashimoto's, I take a thyroid medication prescribed by my doctor and I
supplement with a personal blend of vitamins and minerals from my local compounding pharmacy for
the Pyrrole. In addition to these capsules, I supplement each day with Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Evening
Primrose Oil, Fish Oil, Turmeric, Iron, and Magnesium. I use sea salt, garlic, Bragg's apple cider
vinegar, and Lugols Solution (for Iodine) to improve my metabolic functioning.
I mainly eat fresh vegetables, organic chicken, nuts, and some fruits such as apples, berries, bananas,
and citrus fruit. I can also eat yoghurt and small amounts of cheese. I drink mainly plain filtered
water, the odd sparkling water for a treat, and cups of tea with lactose free milk. I don't drink alcohol
because it just sends me to sleep.
Having a disciplined routine every day helps me to keep my energy levels at their best, and the Daily
Success Rituals are the key to my increased productivity. I consider them to be non-negotiable, but
never think of them as a chore because of the benefits they bring. Now I have more time for activities
I enjoy because I don't waste it on meaningless distractions.
I always start the day with a 20-minute walk through my lovely neighbourhood. I prefer to leave the
house by 6 o'clock for a quieter experience, before the traffic starts. The morning walk is an effective
way to clear my head as I enjoy the surrounding natural landscape.
As I walk, I focus on my mindset by keeping my thoughts positive to reinforce my ability to heal
myself. I enjoy looking at the trees, listening to the birds sing, smelling the fragrant flowers and seeing
the native animals that scurry out of my way. I focus on my breathing, making sure Im inhaling deeply
and evenly down into my chest. This helps to equilibrate my emotions and sets serenity for the day
ahead.
Meditation is the next vital part to my Daily Success Ritual that makes a huge difference to my sense
of peace, as well as my productivity. When I meditate, I relax my mind and have a confidence
brainwash. Meditation assists me to focus on the day ahead and helps me be courageous before my
unconscious fears.
Managing our mindset is definitely our greatest challenge in life. Were social beings by nature, and
that means were easily influenced by those around us. By taking the time to meditate, you can become
firmer in your conviction to just be yourself, with all of your talents and abilities. Using every
opportunity to bring out your best qualities requires a mastering of productivity and a determination
that relies on internal strength.
Without regular daily meditation I notice that my anxiety levels increase and my subconscious fears
start to get more traction. Meditation gives me courage to pursue my dreams and take consistent action
towards my goals. For me it has become a lifestyle addition that will continue for the rest of my life.
After I meditate I tap out my Cortices. As a BodyTalk practitioner, I know that regular use of this
technique helps my brain to stay calm and focused. In addition to feelings of relaxation, the Cortices
technique co-ordinates the left and right hemisphere of the brain, and connects the brain energetically
to the rest of the body. Its a great way to sharpen your mind for the day ahead. You can learn how to
do this for yourself by visiting my website at www.BodyTalkBrisbane.com.au.
When I finish tapping out my Cortices, I spend 5 minutes writing in my Gratitude Diary. I focus on
journaling 5 things that Im grateful for in my life each day. It can be anything from being grateful for
my wonderful Mum, beautiful daughter, fabulous friends, peaceful home, or even a bird or plant that I
have seen that morning. It doesn't really matter what youre grateful for, just that you activate the
emotion and write it down.
Then I spend 5 minutes reading over my goals and looking at my Vision Board so that my brain is
programmed to seek out opportunities that align with my values. Finally, I spend 5 minutes making a
list of the 7 highest priority action steps that will fulfil my highest destiny for each day. Then I
prioritise these and Im ready for the day ahead.
If you don't organise your time and resources, others will make arrangements for you. While people
may be well meaning, I prefer to have the final say in how my life unfolds, and with a master plan in
place, I can be confident that Im staying on track towards my goals.
By spending a bit more time each morning to set up my day ahead, I arrive at my desk ready to work,
and Im able to concentrate on producing to a high standard. I have found that the Daily Success
Rituals work so well that I notice a considerable difference if Im ever distracted from doing them.
When my routine is briefly disrupted by a change in plans, whether I have visitors in the house or I go
on a holiday, I forgive myself, then I start again as soon as possible. Even though I practice daily, I
keep reminder lists close by at all times, including having one on my bathroom mirror, so that I can
check in to ensure I have done everything. However, if I don't for any reason, I just start again the next
day.
Daily Success Rituals are the key to productivity and vitality. Here is a summary for you to implement
straight away if youre looking for simple ways to improve your well-being and get more out of life.
All together you can complete them within an hour each morning; however, if you arent restricted by
time, you may enjoy their benefits so much you can take longer.
1. MORNING WALK AND GENTLE EXERCISE (20 minutes)
2. MEDITATION and EQUILIBRATED BREATHING (20 minutes)
3. TAP OUT CORTICES (5 minutes)
4. KEEP A GRATITUDE JOURNAL (5 minutes)
5. READ YOUR GOALS OUT LOUD EVERY DAY (5 minutes)
6. PLAN YOUR DAY with a list of the 7 highest priority actions from your 90-day plan that
you need to take to reach your goals (5 minutes)
I hope that you have enjoyed reading this book and that it has inspired you to incorporate the Daily
Success Rituals into your mornings. The order of the rituals is not as important as doing them each
morning, as their implementation is vital for health and happiness.
When you dedicate your life to being the best version of yourself, in compliance with your values,
you will be more productive. That, in turn, inspires others to pursue their dreams, thus generating a
healthy community.
Once you realise that you have a unique gift inside of you that can be of benefit to others, dont be
afraid to share it because it could make all the difference to someone else who is struggling for your
information.
All of the techniques that I have shared are simple, yet the challenge is in their consistent, unwavering
implementation. Knowledge is empowering, but action transforms lives. By taking action for at least
21 days, you create a new habit in your brain.
Change is worth the dedication when you feel the benefits of more energy, focus and confidence.
When you have improved your well-being, you can review where you were when you were really
stressed, and feel grateful that you heeded the message.
Stress is designed to save your life. When you listen and take action, you can transform your life
simply by taking great care of your body, mind, and soul with an awareness of your goals. Trust your
natural talents and abilities to break through your fears and you will feel fulfilled with a purposeful
life.
Stress provides us with valuable feedback that is challenging at first, and rewarding once its fully
processed. Without this opportunity, we would remain juvenile and dependent through
overprotection.
When you experience the turbulence of lifes twists and turns, you grow confident in your increased
ability to adapt and cope. Resilience strengthens healthy boundaries when you value your journey.
Stress eventually leads to empowerment if you can recognise that its an opportunity to grow into the
person you were born to be.
DONT WAIT
Watch this FREE VIDEO SERIES now, and
Say YES to becoming a bestseller:
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Notes
[1]
You can see this data on the CDC website: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html
[2]
Statistics available on the ABS website:
http://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/Latestproducts/4428.0Main%20Features32012
[3]
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, Volume 39, Issue 5, August 2015.
[4]
Paper delivered at the 2015 IBA Members Conference, Vancouver, 2 August 2015.
[5]
Lipton, Bruce, The Biology of Belief, Carlsbad CA, Hay House, September 2008.
[6]
Kelley P. et al, (2014), Synchronizing education to adolescent biology: 'let teens sleep, start school later', Learning, Media and
Technology.
[7]
See http://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2011/01/eight-weeks-to-a-better-brain/
[8]
Hawkins, David R. Power vs. Force, Carlsbad CA, Hay House, 1998.
[9]
Emoto, Masaru, The Hidden Messages in Water, Oregon, Beyond Words Publishing, 2004.
[10]
Demartini, John F., Inspired Destiny, Sydney, Hay House, 2010.
[11]
Assaraf, John and Murray Smith, The Answer, New York, Atria Paperback, 2008.
[12]
Korb, Alex, The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time,
New Harbinger Publications, 2015.
[13]
Hill, Napoleon, Think and Grow Rich, Conn. USA, The Ralston Society, 1938.
Table of Contents
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
DEDICATION
INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER 1: THE PARADOX OF STRESS
CHAPTER 2: INFLUENCES FROM THE ENVIRONMENT
CHAPTER 3: HEALING THE BODY
CHAPTER 4: MASTERING THE MINDSET
CHAPTER 5: BALANCING THE EMOTIONS
CHAPTER 6: INSPIRING THE SPIRIT
CHAPTER 7: ORGANISING YOUR TIME
CHAPTER 8: MANAGING YOUR MONEY
CHAPTER 9: DAILY SUCCESS RITUALS
ABOUT THE AUTHOR