October 2016

I have a new favorite word. And I won’t lie –I got great satisfaction when even the biggest self-proclaimed logophile (someone who is a lover of words) I know had never heard of it. It’s not just that I like the way it sounds; it’s my new favorite word because I really love what it means.

Metanoia – (n) the journey of changing one’s mind, heart, self or way of life

Metanoia has Greek roots meaning “repentance.” However, in our modern, secular society, its contemporary meaning has a much broader application, and to me, doesn’t imply any religious or negative connotation. To repent infers regret, sorrow, shame, remorse, and to change your ways or habits as a result of a past sin. When I think of the word repent, I also think of it as an act of letting go – letting go of previous unjust actions, thoughts or habits directed towards oneself or others. And so even if we were to hold to this Greek root as a modern understanding of metanoia, there is still a process, a journey of letting go and becoming who we are ultimately meant to be.

I love that this one word encapsulates this process of transformation that touches each part of our being. We all know the old adage; “it’s about the journey, not the destination…” We get so focused on the outcome that we forget to notice what is arising along the way. It’s so common to start life on a certain path, assume that it will be a straight line, and then never check in to see if it’s still the right one. The reality is that our life’s path is one of many curves; it’s possible we may never quite arrive at the elusive destination because we are constantly changing. What our destination may have looked like at 25 years old, likely is very different at 35, 45 or 60 years old, but we often hold onto that original ideal. This makes it challenging to go with the flow and let that path evolve. We can get stuck on autopilot, constantly moving forward in habits and patterns that are familiar, not always checking to see if we are living in alignment with our heads and our hearts.

Even though the most constant thing in life is change, it can be very scary. Change is hard to accept, even more difficult to enact and so many of us rarely do it. Metanoia requires us to be brave—it takes courage to make a shift to any aspect of ourselves, big or small. To go through the journey of changing one’s mind is a process of looking at all of our thoughts, habits and patterns and asking if they are in alignment with who we are in the here and now, along with being open to seeing the world through fresh eyes. To change one’s heart is to reconcile past hurts and let go of what is no longer serving us, along with the ability to practice forgiveness, compassion and loving-kindness to ourselves and others. It requires that we hold up the mirror, look within and acknowledge the pieces that we don’t like. And to change our way of life requires stepping into the unknown on faith.

My own metanoia has been a work in process for many years, part of which lead me to the practice of mindfulness, the practice of living my life with intentional, present moment awareness. By shifting from autopilot to paying attention, I let go of many “should.” The journey was not easy by any means, but it led me to an authentic life in which I strive to be fully present in all aspects.

I recently opened the Bay Area Mindfulness and Therapy Center, in Danville, where I offer individual and couples therapy, as well as a variety of original mindfulness classes. My focus and specialty is working with those going through life transitions, as well as parenting struggles, to help them reach their own metanoia. I provide a safe, confidential environment where I accompany my clients through examining their thoughts, habits and patterns to be able to live in alignment with their heart, mind and soul. Visit mindfulnessandtherapycenter.com for more information or to set up a free consultation.

Joree Rosenblatt, MA, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and founder of The Bay Area Mindfulness and Therapy Center. She has a passion for helping others live their optimal life through the cultivation of a mindfulness practice. Contact her for more information or to set up an appointment. joree@comcast.net

 

Dear SSHS,

My mom and I are having a debate about tattoos. I want one, but she thinks it could get in the way of my getting a good job one day. I just don’t think that’s a relevant argument in today’s world. What do you think?                                                                                                ~ Chantal B., Berkeley

She Said: Certainly tattoos are mainstream these days, but your mom does have a point. There are some employers who might pass judgment, and if hiring came down to you and someone without a tattoo, I suppose, all things equal, you could lose out. How about you negotiate getting your tattoo on a place where it would be covered by work attire? Maybe not as much fun, but better safe than sorry!

He Said: You might think that tattoos are no big deal nowadays but not everyone is so open-minded. You have to understand that when an employer is looking to hire, they want someone who is going to benefit their company and not become a distraction. And it’s their right to think that way. If your tattoo is a potential distraction, then they will most definitely favor someone else for the job. I agree with Robin, get the tattoo but only somewhere where you can cover it.

Dear HSSS,

Do you think it’s normal for someone’s husband to use his wife’s toothbrush when on vacation because he left his at home?                                                                               ~ Grossed out, San Ramon

He Said: It’s definitely not normal and a little unsanitary, but you kiss his mouth don’t you? I’m sure a dentist would argue a kiss and sharing a toothbrush are not the same thing but what bad could really come of it? Just run the toothbrush under hot water for a few seconds or splash some mouthwash on it to kill any germs. Besides, sharing your brush is better than having to smell his breath while on vacation.

She Said: Where are you vacationing where he can’t just run down to the drugstore and buy another toothbrush? I’ve heard the argument, that you share worse things, why not a toothbrush?  My informal poll tells me guys don’t think there’s anything abnormal about it, but by and large, women object, so tell hubby you’ll share many things, but not that. Then carry a fresh spare while on vacation, just in case.

Robin Fahr is a communications specialist and host of Conversations seen daily on Tri-Valley TV, Channel 30 and online at www.trivalleytv.org. Shawn is that guy that everyone goes to for advice. Send your questions to www.AskHeSaidSheSaid.com.

In 2004, Align Healing Center began using laser therapy to help patients relieve their muscle, joint and nerve pain. Due to the near miraculous results that laser can provide to a sprain, strain or chronic pain, our patients began to ask “what else can laser help heal?” Wondering the same thing, we began to branch out and use laser on any and all injuries and wounds that our patients were presented with. We have literally watched the healing process occur right before our very eyes. Swelling reduces within minutes, severe bruises dissipate with no visible sign within a day or two and surgical wounds become painless, with minimal scarring and redness. We have had patients that have had knee surgery and hip replacements, shoulder surgery, spinal surgery, breast augmentation and reconstruction, rhinoplasty, face-lifts and c-sections that heal in a fraction of the time typical without the use of laser therapy. If you are intending on having surgery or have a stubborn injury that has taken longer to heal than you would have expected it is worth your while to explore the benefits of Class IV K-Laser therapy.

How Laser Therapy Speeds Tissue Healing

Injuries and surgery cause tissue damage and inflammation which reduces the circulation to the injured tissue thereby impeding the nutrition and energy available to the damaged area. Laser therapy is the application of low levels of laser light to areas of the body that have been injured or damaged.  Therapeutic lasers do not cut or burn, but instead, supply energy to the body in the form of photons of light. Light is transmitted through the skin’s layers (the dermis, epidermis and the subcutaneous tissue under the skin). The wavelength of the Class IV Laser allows these photons to travel deep into the body; up to 8-9 inches. When laser light penetrates into the body, it stimulates damaged cells to start producing ATP. ATP is the “fuel” or energy source that all cells need to function and repair. When damaged cells have the energy they need to function properly they can immediately start the repair process.  Laser therapy accelerates the healing of injured areas, decreases inflammation, and eliminates pain allowing patients to quickly return to normal activities.

How long does it take to work?

95% of our patients notice improvement after the very first treatment. However, some conditions may take a few treatments to respond. Each laser treatment is cumulative, meaning that each successive treatment builds on the previous. The doctors at Align personally work with you each visit to ensure that you are progressing as quickly as possible.

What People Are Saying about K-Laser at Align Healing Center

I cannot thank you enough for the “miracle healing” of my knee! It was such a bad fall and yet after the first treatment I have never had any more pain and I have been able to be on my feet all day. Thank you so much for your great laser and your caring treatment.   J. Frank, Walnut Creek

I’m entirely pain free this morning…You’re a magician!!  I’ll encourage my patients to consider laser therapy for their pain.  Thanks again.  Dr. Navolanic, MD

Six months after my hip replacement I was still in debilitating pain when I walked any distance. After K-Laser therapy I am able to live a normal life, which for me includes hiking and biking without pain! J. Franco, Danville

For more information about how laser therapy may be helpful to you contact Align Healing Center to schedule a free consultation (925)362-8283. Visit us on the web at www.AlignHealingCenter.com.

 

So, I guess you could say we’re going to have our own little Octoberfest; except this isn’t about sausages (pun definitely intended) and beer but about the life and times of Anthony Weiner.

I watched this movie and as I settled down at my computer, former Democratic Congressman Anthony Weiner was once again in the news. This time he was allegedly sexting with a 15 year old girl. My thought was: has he no shame?  Obviously, not so much.  I have to admit, I’m baffled. When I first heard about this documentary of his “big come back,” I was marginally intrigued. Firstly, he went down in flames in his bid for Mayor of New York City so there was no re-entry into politics.  Secondly, I suppose I was wondering why he even released the film since he failed.

I spent the first part of the movie trying to figure out why. Then I decided to just sit back and relax. The film gives unusual insight into people who feel they are destined for leadership in the political arena. I’m not comparing Weiner to some of the great men who have served but I believe they probably have to have some of that sense of destiny in them.

Winner in the category of Best Documentary of 2016 at the Sundance Film Festival, Weiner is funny, witty, and confusing; I’m still wondering why he would expose his family to this degree.

Huma Abedin, Hillary Clinton’s top aide for many years, is Mr. Weiner’s wife. A woman who has spent many years behind, beside and around Hillary yet she chooses to rarely be in the limelight. Huma is said to be highly qualified and Mrs. Clinton has said that she is like a daughter to her. They certainly have some similar life experiences.

To insure Weiner’s Mayoral win, Huma was front and center. She appeared with him, stood with him and even spoke for him. That had to be hard, yet she agreed to another indulgence of this man when they invited the public into their home, offices and vehicles to film Weiner. During this campaign there was yet another scandal involving a 22 year old woman who actually attempted to sabotage his campaign, appearing on TV and literally chasing him around NYC.

Anthony Weiner was born and raised in Brooklyn.  I truly believe he loves New York City. He served as a Member of the NYC Council from 1992-1998. He served 12 years in Congress from 1999-2011 resigning because of a sexting scandal. Huma stayed with him and in 2013 there was another scandal. It makes you wonder whether the behavior ever stopped or ever will. Does he realize what he is doing wrong? As I watched him in the film, I realized none of it was about the sexually explicit texts to many women (now girls), it was about how to spin whatever was happening to the media. I know this has to happen in every campaign to some degree but I am just sick and tired of the information I receive being altered, manipulated and managed by people who create a life of doing just that. How do they sleep at night?

Weiner makes you ponder. Politics is definitely a “glass house” kind of job. Many men and women of integrity have survived the transparency of the profession. As the media continues to take on a different role in campaigns, will voters become more critical or just jaded and desensitized. This film is educational and entertaining. Its R rated for language so not so much for the kids!  Let me know what you think at chastings@rockcliff.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A professional make-up application doesn’t have to cost a fortune—plus, it’s a great way to try out new trends and formulas. As a professional make-up artist, I think it’s a great idea to have your make-up professionally done once in a while, regardless of whether it’s for special event. Why? Formulas change, trends change and it’s healthy and fun to look fresh and updated. Wearing corals and bright pinks in the winter does not go with winter tone fashion. The same thing applies in the summertime, when you wouldn’t wear a berry lipstick and smokey eyes when going to the beach.

Every year the fashion industry reinvents itself and it just keeps getting better and better every year.  New formulas, fresh techniques and updated colors in make-up, when applied correctly, can make you look years younger, while keeping you on-trend and fashion-forward.

My clients update their looks every 3 to 6 months. You see celebrities changing their looks and locks all the time, why not you, right? Just like when you have something in mind for a new hairstyle, you bring pictures to your hair designer. In cosmetics you can do the same thing with the make-up artist. Bring photos of styles you like, also bring pictures of celebrities and models whose make-up you love to keep a good communication between you and the artist and to give them a sense of the look you’re going for. The make-up artist may have suggestions for how to adapt the trend to suit you rather than treating it literally. (By the way, the celebs most often mentioned by my customers whose make-up they want to emulate are Kylie Jenner, Kate Hudson, Kim Kardashian, Katy Perry, to name a few).

Application technique is just as important as any product, you have to know how to apply it correctly. At The Rouge we cater to women who need and want to know what is in style along with what they can realistically do. We offer make-up updates every season to help women achieve a more trendy and polished look, and as a bonus, you get to try on all the latest cosmetic trends without having to be pushed to buy. Alternatively, you can book a 90 minute lesson which cost a little more, but you will receive valuable information on the latest skin care, as well as a custom blended foundation, a full updated look for day as well as an evening style.

The Rouge also has a roster of free walk-in services called ‘Just One Look’ that will focus on a key feature; e.g., eye brow shaping, eye trends, custom foundation and how to choose the right lip color based on the season and your individual personality. These are based on artist availability and designed to teach our clients how to use products effectively and correctly. I say that you should give a pro make-up artist a try. You will discover the perfect go-to item and a hot new look that you will love.

 

 

My patients greatly benefit from my pain. I learned the hard way. I have had heart surgery, hip replacement surgery and all kinds of medications, not to mention suggestions of further surgical procedures. I have been misdiagnosed to the point I had a near death experience. Finally I came to the realization that “modern medicine” is little more than a Hollywood term. A true doctor is one who is humble and constantly seeking more knowledge. Most think the “standard of care” is all that they must follow. Our government admits that the “standard of care” is responsible for at least 250,000 deaths a year (it’s much more).

My goal is to help you deeply understand that YOU can take control of your health and vitality – I DID!  In my book, WHY: The Question That Could Save Your Life, I emphasize the need for you to become informed and precisely WHY. Our bodies are very capable of healing, if we allow it to happen. We prevent the healing processes by literally eating poisons and/or abusing ourselves with stress.

In my case I used to eat like everyone else, and I suffered like everyone else. About ten years ago I did what I now tell my patients to do: I changed my diet and lifestyle (I mostly follow a Paleo diet); I take supplements and exercise with guidance. I am now experiencing the best health of my life with no allergies, am never sick, have no arthritis and a great, healthy heart. Not to mention people tell me that I look ten years younger, (but I feel 40 years younger).  Friends that have not seen me for years ask me how I do it and I am helping them.

My point here is not to brag, but to emphasize that my methods of relieving pain in my practice, without drugs, have the side effects of better health. For years dentistry has been treating “TMJ” as a dental problem. If that were true, almost everyone would have “TMJ” problems. At my office we treat patients, not symptoms. Occasionally, once all symptoms are arrested, a minor adjustment to the teeth may be necessary. Often, because we treat the patient, much more than just TMJ problems are helped. Many times the patient is off drugs for the first time in years. This should be the goal of all doctors.

Occasionally I speak before other professionals and surprise them when I say the most important medical book I have read is, How to Win Friends and Influence People, by Dale Carnegie. If one looks at his worst medical experiences, the doctor was not friendly and/or did not care enough.  In holistic medicine, the confidence of the patient in knowing the doctor cares is of extreme importance because cooperation at home is critical as are the doctor’s additional suggestions.

At AODTC, we treat the patient, not the symptom, which not only makes for great results but lasting relationships. If you are suffering from TMD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction) or sleep apnea we can help. For a free consultation or for more information please visit www.aodtc.com or call 925-837-8048.

 

 

The annual Emmy Awards were on this past week. In the old days, the major networks picked up all the prizes. Nowadays, Netflix , Amazon and other alternate providers pick up plenty of loot. Let’s look at the Emmy winning comedies over the past 50 years.

 

1. In 1956, the top comedy was a family comedy much like a few others of the time. Which comedy picked up the Emmy that year?

 

2. Ten years pass, but we are still watching domestic comedies. This gem had a little more going for it. What was the Emmy winning comedy of 1966?

 

3. Norman Lear came along in 1971 and changed what television comedy looked like. He did not produce the top comedy of 1976, but the traditional comedy more or less grew up that year. What comedy took the prize in 1976?

 

4. The winner in 1986 borrowed players from previous hit comedies. What comedy won the prize in 1986?

 

5. The 1996 winner was actually a spinoff from a great series of a few years earlier. What was it?

 

6. The winner for 2006 was a true original, but was based on a British comedy of the same name. Which comedy took the 2006 prize?