Books to Inspire

The staff of Body Mind Spirit Magazine is pleased to announce our new "Books to Inspire" section.

Each issue will now contain mini-reviews of books, cds, kits, tarot cards and more.

Click on any of the links below to read what our reviewers have to say about the awesome titles that have been reviewed for this issue.

Beyond Trauma: Conversations on Traumatic Incident Reduction Edited by Victor R. Volkman Loving Healing Press www.LovingHealing.com ISBN 1-932690-00-X Health

Written for both mental health workers and PTSD sufferers, "Beyond Trauma: Conversations on Traumatic Incident Reduction" explores an apparently profoundly effective means of dealing with trauma.

Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR) which is a method of healing past traumas, was developed by Dr. Franke Gerbode, Gerald French and others, and seems to provide a unique regression and repetitive desensitization procedure for those suffering with PTSD.

This book, while providing ample information on the method itself, is compiled with conversation from a large number of facilitators and other practitioners who have used TIR in their practices.

This book is an asset to mental health facilitators and anyone who is suffering from PTSD. It offers PTSD sufferers a glimpse at a light at the end of the tunnel, while providing mental health workers with a revolutionary technique that could increase their success rate with traumatized clients.

- Jeni Mayer

Book of the Dumb John Scalzi Portable Press www.raincoast.com ISBN 1-59223-149-7 Entertainment

Fans of the Uncle John Bathroom collection are going to enjoy the latest release "The Book of the Dumb." This book contains the best of the best of dumb, including dumb criminals, corporate faux pas, military blunders, and a bevy of other embarrassing blunders. Author John Scalzi will keep you laughing for hours and will remind you just how smart you really are. Outrageously funny.

- Riki Straza

Contacting Your Spirit Guide Sylvia Brown Hay House www.hayhouse.com ISBN 1-40190-120-4 New Age

Sylvia Brown fans are going to enjoy her little book and cd set called "Contacting your Spirit Guide." In this set, Brown combines tidbits from her own experience with guides, while interweaving instructions on how to meet your guide, what one can expect from your contact on the other side and how to attune yourself to their valuable messages. The accompanying cd is a blend of meditation and instruction for meeting and creating a relationship with your guide. The book and cd set is a valuable asset to anyone seeking access to the wisdom of their guides on the other side.

- Jeni Mayer

Darkside Zodiac by Stella Hyde Weiser www.redwheelweiser.com ISBN 1-57863-310-9 New Age

This book is hilarious! If you love astrology, but hate those hard- to-read and endlessly dry horoscopes, then you are in for a real treat with the "Darkside Zodiac" by Stella Hyde. The back cover of the book states: "You have to be warned; anybody who is but a fragile blossom on life's maelstrom had better put the book down now. There are no jolly bright side platitudes, because there is enough of that kind of thing in the world and every silver lining must have a cloud."

This clever passage is a prime example of what to expect in this little jewel. From bitch rating scales to annoying habits, this book will have you rolling in your recliner! Don't miss the opportunity for an enlightening belly-laugh.

- Angela Lions

"Expert Women Who Speak: Speak Out!" Volumes 1 and 4 Alfano and Glover www.adelealfano.com/products.php ISBN 0-9684450-4-7 and 0-9684450-7-1 Self Help

I have only had the opportunity to read Volumes 1 and 4 of this wonderful series, but I'm hooked on them.

"Expert Women Who Speak: Speak Out!" Volumes 1 and 4 are a fantastic collection of wisdom, knowledge, insight and experience from women who speak professionally.

Each of the 13-15 co-authors in each volume shares the fundamental lessons they have learned and provides step by step instructions for readers who want to manifest change in their own lives.

Expert Women Who Speak: Speak Out In Volume 4, Cy Wakeman teaches readers how to change their thinking and thus change their lives. Shelle Rose Charvet, on the other hand, provides concise and insightful advice for presenting ideas to skeptical people.

Whether you are a high-powered business woman or a stay-at-home Mom, the "Expert Women Who Speak: Speak Out!" series can lend you assistance in a myriad of ways. And best of all, the advice comes from those who have lived the experience and have conquered the obstacles that many of us face in our own lives.

"Expert Women Who Speak: Speak Out!" provides real advice for real women!

- Jeni Mayer

The Gift of Pain by Barbara Altemus Perigee www.thegiftofpain.com ISBN 0-399-52778-8 Self Help

None of us are immune to pain -- the slings and arrows of a sometimes cruel world. But Barbara Altemus's, "The Gift of Pain: Transforming Hurt into Healing," can offer some insight into how each of us can overcome these hurts and continue on with hope and happiness. Altemus blends the story of her own personal journey through pain with other stories shared by contributors such as Deepak Chopra, Ela Gandhi, Joan Boysenko and Martin Sheen. Each of the contributors has suffered their own pain -- whether physical, mental or spiritual -- and are therefore able to offer sound and sometimes profound advice to mastering pain. This is a book of hope for anyone who has ever had difficulty overcoming the pain in their lives.

- Jeni Mayer

Love Letters to God: Deeper Intimacy Through Written Prayer by Lynn D. Morrissey Multnomah Gifts www.multnomahbooks.com/contact.asp ISBN 1-59052-189-7 Spirituality

This lovely book has sat languishing for months on my desk, and though it called to me often, I never seemed to find the time to open it up -- too many tasks, too much stress, too much of everything!

Then the day arrived when I simply had to step outside my own harried world for a while. That's when I opened up Lynn D. Morrissey's, "Love Letters to God: Deeper Intimacy Through Written Prayer" and I was transformed for the day. I was reminded through Lynn's almost lyrical renderings that there is peace and calm in the arms of our Creator and that he/she is always there to comfort us through good times and through bad.

And though "Love Letters to God: Deeper Intimacy Through Written Prayer" teaches readers how to connect to God through the written word, it also reminds readers of the importance of prayer in their lives. Morrissey's beautifully crafted book with artwork by Katia Andreeva, inspires all of us to reconnect to God through prayer, and in doing so, to re-ignite the powerful relationship and the healing properties of a loving affair with the Creator.

- Jeni Mayer

Mirrors of Time: Using Regression for Physical, Emotional and Spiritual Healing by Brian L. Weiss M.D. Hay House www.hayhouse.com ISBN 1-56170-929-8 Self Help Book / Cd Set

Since the publication of his book, "May Lives, Many Masters" Dr. Brian Weiss has done groundbreaking work in past life regression therapy. Helping to heal hundreds of patients through past life regression, Weiss is convinced that our pasts can conceal hidden hurts and traumas that effect us even today. His book and accompanying CD "Mirrors of Time: Using Regression for Physical, Emotional and Spiritual Healing" now gives the general public access to regression therapy in the privacy of their own homes. And while the book itself explains the purpose and benefits of regression to heal past experiences and lives, it also assures readers of the safety of this method. The CD, with a accompanying musical background, leads listeners through a gentle meditation that draws them back through their lives, their childhoods and beyond. The results can be profound!

- Jeni Mayer

Secrets of Attraction by Sandra Anne Taylor Hay House www.hayhouse.com ISBN 1-56170-817-8 Self Help

If you were under the impression that the success of your dating life was based on your personality, choice of dates or wardrobe, you may be in for a shock. Sandra Anne Taylor, in her book, Secrets of Attraction, puts forth a valuable argument for the idea that our relationships are very much tied to universal laws and quantum physics.

Since energy is the basis of all life and existence, it stands to reason that our own energy field effects our lives in a myraid of ways. Taylor contends that our relationships -- those who we attract and repel -- is also governed by this energy. She offers advice on everything from how to change your personal relationship energy to how to attract a different type of relationship, how to get beyond past losses and how to actively attract the the mate or friend you are seeking. Whether you are seeking new friendships, a lover or a life-long mate, this book is a welcome new approach to creating and manifesting change in your relationships.

- Angela Lions

The Spiritual Life of Animals and Plants by Laurie Conrad 1st Books www.figarobooks.com ISBN 0-759565-872-2 Spirituality

If you've ever wondered if animals and plants have souls, then you will love reading Laurie Conrad's "The Spiritual Life of Animals and Plants." Through the eyes and ears of a composer and musician, Conrad weaves wonderful little tales about the plants and animals that she has come to know and love in her life.

Her stories, sometimes wistful and lighthearted are always insightful. Conrad's ability to patiently watch creatures as they go about their daily lives is astounding, allowing her to tap into the patterns of their existence.

By the time I had completed reading Laurie Conrad's book, I felt grounded in the knowledge that plants and animals do indeed lead spiritual lives and that as caretakers of our earth, we humans have an obligation to live more consciously of all the soulful creatures who exist within this realm.

- Jeni Mayer

This Time I Dance: Creating the Work You Love by Tama J. Kieves Penquin www.penguinputnam.com ISBN 1-58542-240-1 Self Help

Why would a Harvard educated corporate lawyer leave her work to pursue her dreams of becoming a coach and professional speaker? Author Tama Kieves answers this important question and many more in her book, "This Time I Dance: Creating the Work You Love." Kieves is a ardent advocate for creating the life and work that you love and this shines through in her writing. Having left the security of her job as a high-powered litigator, Kieves recreated herself by giving into her dreams and "This Time I Dance: Creating the Work You Love," encourages readers who are ready to do the same. Providing advice, encouragement and answers to dealing with common fears, Kieves provides readers with an opportunity to transform themselves fearlessly and passionately. If you want to give it all up for your dreams, this book will serve as a guide to doing just that. Absolutely brilliant!

- Angela Lions

The Way of Four by Deborah Lipp Llewellyn www.Llewellyn.com New Age

Author Deborah Lipp's Book, "The Way of Four" is an essential component for any pagan's library -- or anyone who wants to live in harmony with the four basic elements of our existence. This insightful book explains the basic characteristic of Air, Earth, Fire and Water while simultaneously encouraging readers to embark on a personal journey of self-exploration. Readers discover how the elements play a role in their daily lives and how these elements can be balanced for happier and healthier living.

Making use of exercises, quizzes, worksheets and checklists, readers learn to balance the elements in their personality, homes and relationships. An absolute must read for seekers of elemental and life balance.

- Angela Lions

Witches' Spell-a-Day Almanac Llewellyn www.Llewellyn.com ISBN 0-7387-0228-5 Wiccan

This awesome little book was created in the style of the old Farmer's Almanac. Even the cover is resplendent in sepia tones that speak of long ago days.

Witches' Spell-a-Day Almanac provides a helpful abundance of ideas for creating spells, astrological information for assuring the best timing for any spell casting, recipes, and 12 months of daily spells.

With contributions by 15 pagan authors, this book is packed with wisdom and interesting tidbits of knowledge. It will serve its readers well for an entire year. A wonderful resource for any witch.

- Jeni Mayer

Urban Legends: Strange Stories Behind Modern Myths by A.S Mott Ghost House Books www.lonepinepublishing.com ISBN 1-894877-41-1 Fiction

I have long been a fan of urban legends and cultural mythology. Urban Legends Strange Stories Behind Modern Myths; by Ghost House Books is by in large the best collection of Urban Legends yet. These tales are contemporary and their modern and timely nature makes them even more chilling. This is a book that will appeal to teens and adults alike.

- Riki Straza

CDs

Earth: Sonic Journey's to Faraway Places by Robin Barber www.RobinBarber.com

Looking for a relaxing cd to meditate or escape from a sometimes hectic world? Then you'll enjoy Robin Barber's "Earth: Sonic Journey's to Faraway Places." This magnificent cd is a blend of sound-scape's with influences from Celtic, Classical, Middle Easter and Asian traditions.

Composed as a landscape of the world, the musical selections carry you across fertile plains and up exhilarating melodic mountain scrape. A truly uplifting musical experience.

- Jeni Mayer

Kits

The Prayer Box by Janell Moon Red Wheel www.redwheelweiser.com ISBN 1-59003-058-3 Spirituality

The Prayer Box created by Janell Moon is a wonderful tool for learning how to deepen and strengthen our spiritual life. The Prayer Box comes with three important parts. The first part is a book that teaches us how to pray and explicates the reasons that prayer touches our lives. A blank journal makes up the second part of this wonderful kit. The journal can be used to record your own prayers or thoughts and reflections on your life and the nature of deity. Finally, this kit contains a stack of elegant blank sheets that can be used to record the prayers that have the most meaning for you. This is an exceptional gift set to give to someone who is struggling with a life issue or loss. It will also serve you well in your own spiritual exploration.

- Angela Lions

Witching Stones by M.A. Madigcan and P.M Richards Llewellyn www.Llewellyn.com ISBN 0-7387-0194-7 Wiccan

The Witching Stones by M.A. Madigcan and P.M Richards are the most magnificent oracle that I have ever worked with. The accuracy of the stones is uncanny. Whether you are asking for information about an upcoming date or seeking guidance with a life altering decision, these stones can assist you in so many ways. Read much like a tarot deck, with past/present and future layouts, the stones might warn you of unforeseen issues or remind you to reflect on decisions that you may have made in the past that could effect the outcome of current or upcoming events. If you have little funds for an oracular tool, you can't go wrong with a set of the Witching Stones!

- Jeni Mayer

Tarot Decks

The Cosmic Tribe Tarot Artwork by Stevee Postman Text by Eric Ganther Inner Traditions www.innertraditions.com/index.jsp ISBN 0-89281-700-3 New Age

What makes this deck unique is its artwork. The artist has integrated photos of real people amidst mystical and sometimes provocative imagery. Harnessing the power of ancient knowledge and modern wisdom, this deck offers a special link with the devine. The imagery alone leads the reader into a meditative state -- allowing for the collective unconscious to awaken. This is not a classic deck, but is does offer a visceral jaunt into the unknown.

- Jeni Mayer

Sacred Geometry by Francene Hart Bear & Company www.innertraditions.com/index.jsp ISBN 1-879181-73-8 New Age

This special deck makes use of geometric shapes and the full colour spectrum. The shapes are true to the principals of sacred geometry and assist the reader to enter a sacred space -- much as one would experience while walking through a labyrinth or ancient tomb. The advice in the accompanying book is coherent and easy to access. Though the images are somewhat simplistic -- at least in a world where tarot artwork has reached profoundly complex levels -- they do inspire the reader to look beyond the surface to the more complex issues in their lives. This is a great deck for those who are well connected to their own inner voice!

- Jeni Mayer

Self-Care Cards by Cheryl Richardson Hay House www.hayhouse.com ISBN 1-56170-900-X Self Help

Cheryl Richardson, the New York Times best-selling author of Take Time for Your Life and Life Makeovers, has created another hit with Self-Care Cards. This 52 card deck was created to inspire readers to take time out to heal and restore their body, mind and soul. Each beautifully crafted card is a gift in itself. Artwork by Ashley Parsons makes Richardson's simple but eloquent messages sing. From the Relaxation Card that reads" Allow Yourself to be lazy. It's okay to 'do' nothing." to the Wisdom Card which advises readers to "Let go of the need to control. Trust in the wisdom of a Divine Plan," these cards are sure to enliven your life. Each card is a masterpiece of self-love!

- Jeni Mayer

Witchy Tarot by Laura Tuam/Artwork by Antonella Platano Llewellyn www.hayhouse.com ISBN 073870445-8 New Age

If you are looking for a the perfect deck for your curious teen, this is the one to choose! The artwork is trendy, colorful, rebellious and loads of fun. Written with a focus on youth, this deck is simple to use, yet provides wisdom and guidance for teens. The deck instructions provide a simple 13 card spread that explores issues such as school, finances, dates, friends, conquests, etc. All in all, it's a great starter deck that will remain a favorite among the young for years to come. Author, Laura Tuam and artist Antonella Platano are a dynamic force that makes this deck unlike any other. Way to go girls!

- Angela Lions

Gifts

Healing with the Angels Journal and Healing with the Angels Candle from Hay House www.hayhouse.com ISBN 1-4019-0375-4

Inspired by the art of Doreen Virtue's "Healing with the Angels Oracle Cards," the "Healing with the Angels Journal" is the prefect gift for Angel lovers. This blank lined journal is uniquely designed with a silk cover and beautifully hand drawn images throughout its many pages. One of many awesome gift items from Hay House.

Healing with the Angels Journal Want the perfect accompaniment to the "Healing with the Angels Journal?" Why not let the "Healing with the Angels Candle" with jasmine & orange oil light your way. This soy based candle gives off an enchanting scent that lingers long after the wick has been extinguished. Perhaps the heavenly realm smells just like this!

- Jeni Mayer