November 2020 Self-Help and Spiritual Book Picks

Posted on by Tammy

NOTE: Every month, bestselling author and founder of Elevated Existence, Tammy Mastroberte, chooses her picks for new books, audios and card decks in the spiritual and self-help field. None of these picks are sponsored or paid for — they are her honest picks that she shares with others!

“Andrew Carnegie’s Mental Dynamite: How to Unlock the Awesome Power of You,” by Napoleon Hill, Don Green and More
Based on a series of booklets written by bestselling motivational writer Napoleon Hill, Andrew Carnegie’s Mental Dynamite outlines the importance of three essential principles of success: self-discipline, learning from defeat, and the Golden Rule applied.

In 1908, Napoleon Hill met industrialist Andrew Carnegie for what he believed would be a short interview for an article. Instead, Carnegie spent hours detailing his principles of success and challenged Hill to devote 20 years to collating a proven formula that would propel people of all backgrounds to happiness, harmony, and prosperity. Hill accepted the challenge, which he distilled in the perennial bestseller Think and Grow Rich. Now, more than a century later, the Napoleon Hill Founda

tion is releasing this epic conversation to remind people that there are simple solutions to the problems troubling us most, everything from relationships and education to homelessness and even democracy.

“Empty Out the Negative: Make Room for More Joy, Greater Confidence and New Levels of Influence,” by Joel Osteen
Release the negative thoughts and feelings that are weighing you down and make room for the good things you should have in your life with #1 New York Times bestselling author Joel Osteen. You were created to be filled with joy, peace, confidence, and creativity. But it’s easy to go through life holding on to things that weigh you down-guilt, resentment, doubt, worry.

When you give space to these negative emotions, they take up space that you need for the good things that move you toward your destiny. Osteen shares how every morning you have to empty out anything negative from the day before and put on a fresh new attitude. Power up and get your mind going in the right direction, and you’ll step into all the new things God has in store for you.

“The Greatest Secret,” by Rhonda Byrne
From Rhonda Byrne, the author of the worldwide phenomenon The Secret, this new book is a quantum leap that will take the reader beyond the material world and into the spiritual realm, where all possibilities exist. It included wisdom from spiritual teachers from around the world, past and present who discovered the greatest secret; healing practices that can be put to use immediately to dissolve fears, uncertainty, anxiety and pain; the ultimate key to end suffering and discover lasting happiness, and more.

“Grow Rich with the Power of Your Subconscious Mind,” by Joseph Murphy
From the renowned bestselling author of “The Power of Your Subconscious Mind,” this is an authorized collection of writings that unlock the secret to extraordinary success that lies within each of us — focused on prosperity and the simple yet powerful ways we can focus our attention and beliefs to achieve life goals, obtain riches, and live the life of our dreams.

It includes original writings, including some that have never been published in book form, along with modern-day updates, examples, and insights for the contemporary reader. It goes beyond what we’ve already heard about the Law of Attraction and the power of positive thinking to reveal the ability that each of us has to manifest remarkable change in our lives.

“Messages of Grace: 111 Notes of Love and Guidance from Your Angels,” by Anna Grace Taylor
Do you ever wish you could feel more connected to your Angels? Are you in need of some Divine guidance, clarity and peace?

This book is filled with loving messages to help you navigate all aspects of life: your purpose, relationships, sensitivity and so much more — intended to be your oracle, companion and confidant, and includes space for your own journaling throughout.

“The Mindflow Method: How You Can Achieve Anything by Not-Wanting and Not-Doing,” by Tom Moegele
The MindFlow Method is meant to help people overcome anxiety, combat stress, and tackle emotional blocks, thereby releasing an infinite source of life energy. Through a powerful yet simple combination of movements, you can trigger energy shifts and reconnect to the natural flow of life.

The MindFlow Method uses movements similar to Qigong to tap into the energy field within and around us, bringing us to a higher state of consciousness (the G4 state) where our bodies release ‘happy’ hormones that help us relax. In this state, we can harness any toxic energy that comes our way and use it as our own strength. This brings us into alignment with our own inner power, calm in the knowledge that we are connected to life energy. This method and book will teach you how to release your resistance to challenges, raise your energy level, and move into a state of flow and deep inner peace.

“The Mindfulness Journal: Exercises to Help You Find Peace and Calm Wherever You Are,” by Corinne Sweet
The simple, calming exercises in this guided journal will help you stay mindful and centered despite the uncertainty of modern life. It offers an introduction to mindfulness and easy exercises that can be done whether you are sitting at your desk or standing in line at the supermarket.

Subjects include dealing with difficult emotions, preparing for a busy day, and sharing your space with others mindfully.

“My Pocket Self-Care: Anytime Activities to Refresh Your Mind, Body and Spirit,” by Adams Media
Filled with 150 activities to help you feel refreshed, refilled, and refocused every day. This allows you to focus on your own personal needs wherever you are — at home, at work, or on the go. From making your own facial cream to creating a mission statement to soaking in the moonlight and celebrating an unbirthday, there are so many enjoyable ways to reconnect with yourself.

“Pocket Therapy for Stress: Quick Mind-Body Skills to Find Peace,” by Clair Michaels Wheeler MD, PhD.
Drawing on the book, “10 Simple Solutions to Stress,” this on-the-go pocket guide offers simple, evidence-based strategies for coping with stress and overwhelm.

Grounded in positive psychology, mind-body medicine, and cognitive behavioral therapy, the 10 simple but effective strategies in this book are a powerful antidote to stress.

“The Soul-Sourced Entrepreneur: An Unconventional Success Plan for the Highly Creative, Secretly Sensitive, and Wildly Ambitious,” by Christine Kane
Can you succeed in business when your strength is more about sensitivity than swagger? If you’re moved by meaning, more than manipulation? A former songwriter and performer, and then founder of Uplevel YOU—a multi-million-dollar business coaching company—Christine Kane shows a new class of entrepreneurs another way.

Readers will learn how to toss out ineffective, old-school goal-setting models; reframe intuition and sensitivity as valuable assets; examine old patterns for clues into what is holding you back; clean up spaces and distractions draining energy and power; break free from fear-based decision making and more.

“Wake Up Grateful: The Transformative Practice of Taking Nothing for Granted,” by Kristi Nelson
Author Kristi Nelson, executive director of A Network for Grateful Living, unlocks the path to recognizing abundance in every moment, and gives readers the tools to bring this transformational shift in perspective into their daily lives. She goes beyond the proverbial question of whether the glass is half full or half empty, and encourages readers to awaken to the gift of having a glass at all. It includes questions for reflection, daily exercises, and perspective prompts for appreciating the fullness of life as it is, right now, and promises personal change through the practice of taking nothing for granted.

“Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times,” by Katherine May
Sometimes you slip through the cracks: unforeseen circumstances like an abrupt illness, the death of a loved one, a break up, or a job loss can derail a life. These periods of dislocation can be lonely and unexpected. For Katherine May, her husband fell ill, her son stopped attending school, and her own medical issues led her to leave a demanding job. This book explores how she not only endured this painful time, but embraced the singular opportunities it offered.

May’s story offers instruction on the transformative power of rest and retreat and invites readers to change how we relate to our own fallow times. May models an active acceptance of sadness and finds nourishment in deep retreat, joy in the hushed beauty of winter, and encouragement in understanding life as cyclical, not linear.

Elevated Existence July 2018 Spiritual and Self-Help Book Picks

Posted on by Tammy

Each month, a ton of new spiritual and self-help books hit the market. It’s easy to get overwhelmed or miss out on some new releases.

I created Elevated Existence Monthly Book Picks to help narrow down your search, and make sure you don’t miss some great options!

Here are the picks for July 2018. They are listed below in alphabetical order. Click on each title to go directly to Amazon and find out more about the book.

“Healing the Soul of America – 20^th Anniversary Edition,” by Marianne Williamson
In the twentieth anniversary edition of Healing the Soul of America, now updated with a new introduction, and updated material throughout, New York Times bestselling author Marianne Williamson reclaims her powerful voice for social conscience in American society. This is a time, according to Williamson, for Americans to return once again to our first principles, both politically and spiritually. Here, Williamson draws plans to transform the American political consciousness and encourage powerful citizen involvement to heal our society.

Williamson explores the current state of American politics, reminding us of her theory of holistic politics — the convergence of political activists looking toward spiritual wisdom and spiritual contemplatives extending their service into the political landscape. She believes that a morally concerned American must now take an active stand in turning this country away from its current identity as a nation obsessively in love with its money to a nation more seriously invested in all of its children and the potential brilliance of every citizen.

“The Heart of the Shaman: Stories and Practices of the Luminous Warrior,” by Alberto Villoldo
In his latest book, bestselling author Alberto Villoldo sets his focus on the dreaming and time-travel practices of the medicine men and women of the Andes and Amazon, whose wisdom radically changed his worldview. He shares some of their time-honored teachings that emphasize the sacred dream: an ephemeral, yet powerful vision that has the potential to guide us to our purpose and show us our place in the universe.

The practices in this book will help readers forge a sacred dream for themselves and craft a destiny infused with courage and driven by vision. Follow the footsteps of the luminous warrior and learn how to break out of the three nightmares surrounding love, death, and safety that have held us captive, and transform them into the experience of timeless freedom, known as the Primordial Light. This creative power exercised by shamans will lead readers to create beauty and healing, and dream a new world into being.

“Juice Guru’s Juicing for Rapid Weight Loss,” by Steve Prussack
Based on his proprietary Juice Guru Method, Steve Prussack (aka the Juice Guru) shares how to juice for weight loss. Packed with information on not only juice fasting, but the importance of juicing every day, Prussack packs more than 50 recipes into this new e-book specifically designed for weight loss!

Readers will find both juice and smoothie recipes for their weight loss journey, and they are designed to not only be healthy and healing (and of course encourage weight loss) but are also delicious.

“The Magic of Meditation: Stories and Practices to Develop Gratitude and Empathy with Your Child,” by Marie Champeaux-Cunin
More and more children are experiencing the benefits of mindfulness practices at home and in school to reduce stress, regulate emotions and improve concentration. But true mindfulness practice also opens the heart and increases compassion and empathy. This new book is not only a guide for parents to the basics and benefits of meditation for children, but also a concise practice program of mindfulness meditation for children, ages three to seven. The program includes stories, bedtime rituals, and an audio download, featuring Yupsi, a magical dragon. Yupsi’s boundless optimism and good nature will inspire children to feel confidence in their emotions and help them develop natural kindness and altruism.

“More Together Than Alone: Discovering the Power of and Spirit of Community in Our Lives and in the World,” by Mark Nepo
The #1 New York Times bestselling author and popular spiritual teacher presents a poignant and timely meditation on the importance of community, and demonstrates how we live more enriching lives by cultivating connectedness.
Nepo draws from historical events, spiritual thought leaders, and the natural world to show how, in every generation, our tendency is to join together to accomplish our greatest achievements, from creating education to providing clean drinking water, and preserving the arts.

His historical snapshots, from ancient times to contemporary examples, show how community creates a light in the darkest of times, and gets to the heart of how we come together in varied and beautiful ways, whether forming resistance groups during the Holocaust or rebuilding after the nuclear devastation in Nagasaki. These inspiring stories teach us that even in the bleakest days, we have the power to create connections and draw strength from one another.

“Natural Meditation: Refreshing Your Spirit through Nature,” by Barbara Ann Kipfer
Offering easy-to-follow meditation cues for meditating in natural settings or on natural images or objects, this guidebook also offers sidebars throughout to provide suggestions on how to incorporate nature into one’s mindfulness practice. Using short entries, it allows readers to open to a page during a lunch break, at home in the evening, or on the weekend for a short “retreat,” setting off down a quiet, natural path.

This book acknowledges that nature has a lot to teach us about going with the flow, letting go, awareness, calm, silence, and pausing. Whether you practice these meditations in actual natural settings or on a cushion at home, the book’s entries will inspire you to spend more time in nature.

“The Tao Made Easy: Timeless Wisdom to Navigate a Changing World,” by Alan Cohen
In his newest book, Alan Cohen delves into one of the world’s most venerated wisdom texts bringing the lofty and enigmatic concepts of the Tao Te Ching down to earth in fresh, easy-to-grasp language with practical, personal examples we can use to uplift our daily lives.

Most other interpretations of the Tao march through the stanzas one by one. Here Alan Cohen calls forth the ancient verses around themes that are central to our modern lives — from love to work to the lessons we learn from pain. Then he brings each message to life in short vignettes where he imagines himself a student of Lao Tse and interacts with the master directly and intimately. He invites you to join the ancient sage and the contemporary seeker as they wend their way through the challenges and triumphs of the same journey you’re taking yourself.

“A Walk in the Wood: Meditations on Mindfulness with a Bear Named Pooh,” by Dr. Joseph Parent and Nancy Parent
This book features life lessons grounded in the simple act of slowing down, observing what is around us, and being present in our lives moment by moment. In our frantic world, who better to guide readers through this transformative practice than a long-beloved bear who has perfected the art of simply being? And, not coincidentally, he lives in the woods.

There is a growing acknowledgment of the benefits of deeply experiencing nature. The calming quality of sounds like running water and rustling leaves; the soothing properties of smells like lavender and chamomile; and the emotional comfort of beautiful natural vistas are well known.

Dr. Joseph and Nancy Parent share stories with clearly stated goals and easy-to-follow exercises, providing all the tools readers will need to take the first step, or continue on their journey, toward a quieter and calmer way of living.

“Wishes Won’t Bring Riches,” by Napoleon Hill
In this lost classic, the pioneering motivational coach, Napoleon Hill teaches how to make the crucial leap from faith to action in bringing your dreams to life. In three hard-hitting chapters, Hill teaches readers how to transform belief to action, and faith into real-life plans. Application. Enthusiasm. Action. These are the three keys required to do more than just “believe in yourself,” but to actually BE the person you want to be. It provides you the missing link necessary to go from visualizing your dreams to living them.

Elevated Existence June 2018 Spiritual and Self-Help Book Picks

Posted on by Tammy

Each month, a ton of new spiritual and self-help books hit the market. It’s easy to get overwhelmed or miss out on some new releases.

I created Elevated Existence Monthly Book Picks to help narrow down your search, and make sure you don’t miss some great options!

Here are the picks for June 2018. They are listed below in alphabetical order. Click on each title to go directly to Amazon and find out more about the book.

“The Archetype Diet: Reclaim Your Self-Worth and Change the Shape of Your Body,” by Dana James
In working with thousands of women who wanted to lose weight and change the shape of their bodies, leading nutritionist and functional medicine practitioner Dana James observed a striking trend: no matter how diligent they were in sticking to their diet and exercise plans, old behavioral patterns and self-doubt sabotaged their efforts.

In The Archetype Diet, James helps readers escape the seemingly endless psychological tug-of-war hampering their ability to care for themselves and explains which hormones cause the storing of body fast on the belly, thighs and hips — and what to eat to change it. Through her holistic approach to weight loss, James guides in readers in discovering which of four archetypes they embody: The Nurturer, Wonder Woman, Femme Fatale and Ethereal. She also offers a 10-day meal plan, recipes and a step-by-step psychological intervention.

“Everything is Here to Help You: A Loving Guide to Your Soul’s Evolution,” by Matt Kahn
In this book, spiritual teacher and intuitive Matt Kahn redefines the spiritual path for the modern-day seeker, and offers new ways to resolve fear, unravel judgments, and learn how to view life from a clear, expanded perspective. Each chapter highlights his teachings and loving wisdom from how to unravel blame by exploring the four stages of surrender, to providing step-by-step energy clearings and recited activations to amplify the power of one’s consciousness, this book offers a clear road map to explore the magic, mysteries, and miracles that reside in every heart.

“Fail Until You Don’t: Fight Grind Repeat,” by Bobby Bones
The #1 New York Times bestselling author of Bare Bones, host of the marquee morning program “The Bobby Bones Show,” comedian and dedicated philanthropist delivers an inspirational and humorous collection of stories about his biggest misses in life and how he turned them into lessons and wins.

Bobby Bones is the youngest inductee ever into the National Radio Hall of Fame alongside legends Dick Clark, Larry King, and Howard Stern. As “the most powerful man in country music” (Forbes), he has reached the peak of his profession and achieved his childhood dreams. Each weekday morning, more than five million fans tune in to his radio show. But a lot of what made him able to achieve his goals were mistakes, awkward moments, and embarrassing situations. In this book, he includes ideas and motivations for finding success even when seemingly surrounded by impossible odds or tough failures.

“Mind to Matter: The Astonishing Science of How Your Brain Creates Material Reality,” by Dawson Church
In Mind to Matter, award-winning researcher Dawson Church explains the science showing how our minds create matter. Different intentions produce different fields and different material creations. The thoughts and energy fields we cultivate in our minds condition the atoms and molecules around us. We can now trace the science behind each link in chain from thought to thing, showing the surprising ways in which our intentions create the material world.

The science in the book is illustrated by many authentic case histories of people who harnessed the extraordinary power of the mind to create. The book also includes over 150 photos and illustrations that explain the process, while an “Extended Play” section at the end of each chapter provides additional resources.

“Modern Guide to Energy Clearing,” by Barbara Moore
Transform your life with Barbara Moore’s complete guide to working with energy. Usable by anyone, regardless of spiritual path, this friendly and down-to-earth book shows how to make a personalized toolkit of techniques for any circumstance, from clearing long-standing blocks to cultivating the energy you want.

You’ll first learn to clear inappropriate energy and maintain healthy energy within yourself. Then you’ll expand that energetic wellness into your home, your workplace, and other shared or public spaces. Explore numerous techniques, including personal clearing, cording, shielding, clearing clutter, setting intentions, and addressing the elements. Build good energetic habits using a variety of tools, including sage, incense, runes, candles, wind chimes, crystals, drums, and blessings.

“The Three Questions: How to Discover and Master the Power Within You,” by Don Miguel Ruiz
The beloved spiritual teacher builds on the message of his enduring New York Times and international bestseller The Four Agreements with this profound guide that takes us deeper into the tradition of Toltec wisdom, helping us find and use the hidden power within us to achieve our fullest lives.

In this new book, Don Miguel Ruiz goes deeper asking us to consider essential questions that drive our lives and govern our spiritual power. Three eternal questions can help us into our power and use it judiciously: Who am I? What is real? How do I express love?

At each stage in our lives, we must ask these simple yet deeply profound questions. Finding the answers will open the door to the next stage in our development, and eventually lead us to our complete, truest selves. The three questions provide a practical framework that allows readers to engage with Ruiz’s transformative message and act as a vehicle for overcoming fear and anxiety and discovering peace of mind.

“You are Psychic: Develop Your Natural Intuition Through Your Psychic Type,” by Sherrie Dillard
Join bestselling author Sherrie Dillard as she guides you in discovering when and how your intuition works. Filled with easy-to-follow exercises, guided meditations, and illuminating stories from Dillard’s years of teaching, this book shares the secrets of the four psychic types and shows you how to identify your spiritual strengths while overcoming the doubts or fears that may be standing in your way.

Learning to trust the elusive energy of psychic awareness can be an important step in your life’s journey. This book helps you interpret the intuitive information you receive, opening the gateway to support, guidance, and love from the realm of spirit. Whether you desire to improve your relationships, career, health, or finances, You Are Psychic helps you move beyond the five senses and embrace your deep inner wisdom.

“Zen in the Age of Anxiety: Wisdom for Navigating Our Modern Lives,” by Tim Burkett
Wrestling with fear doesn’t have to be a negative experience. This book offers an approach to life that unlocks a new way of thinking and being in the world, one that leads directly through the center of the anxieties we seek to avoid.

Written in the style of an owner’s manual, a guide to being human, Burkett focuses on areas of pain and anxiety as they tend to manifest for modern people: feelings of unworthiness, and issues surrounding sex, money, failure and even death. Providing wisdom from Zen (channeled through his many experiences as a psychotherapist) and using language and metaphors from popular culture, he takes anxiety and teaches us to turn those fears into the building blocks of a fulfilling life.

Elevated Existence May 2018 Spiritual/Self-Help Book Picks

Posted on by Tammy

Each month, a ton of new spiritual and self-help books hit the market. It’s easy to get overwhelmed or miss out on some new releases.

I created Elevated Existence Monthly Book Picks to help narrow down your search, and make sure you don’t miss some great options!

Here are the picks for May 2018. They are listed below in alphabetical order. Click on each title to go directly to Amazon and find out more about the book.

“Apple Cider Vinegar Handbook: Recipes for Natural Living,” by Amy Leigh Mercree
Apple cider vinegar is a useful addition to the pantry and a tasty ingredient in cooking, but it can do more than just add flavor. It holds the potential to cure an upset stomach, treat a sore throat, aid weight loss, and more — proving apple cider vinegar is one of today’s handiest all-natural remedies. Author Amy Leigh Mercree shows why this inexpensive liquid is a must-have in your home and how to use it to achieve optimum health with an easy-to-use, illustrated guide that is complete with recipes.

“30-Day Meditation Challenge: Exercises, Resources and Journaling Prompts for a Better Life,” by Emma Silverman and Nicole Stumpf
In Emma Silverman’s newest book, she teams up with her yoga teacher, Nicole Stumpf, to make meditation accessible, interesting and fun. Exploring meditation traditions from around the world, Silverman and Stumpf invite readers to try 30 different meditations and then record their experiences after the practice. This book combines thousand-year-old meditation traditions with the newer phenomenon of prompted journaling. This book will help readers explore what the buzz about meditation is all about, and why so many scientific studies point to its amazing benefits.

“Choose Wonder Over Worry: Move Beyond Fear and Doubt to Unlock Your Full Potential,” by Amber Rae
Why do we hold back from pursuing what matters most? Why do we listen to the voice inside our head that tells us we’re not good enough, smart enough, or talented enough? How can we move beyond the fear and doubt that prevents us from creating a life that reflects who we truly are?

This new book by inspirational speaker and artist Amber Rae is your official invitation to face your fears, navigate your discomfort, and rewrite the “worry myths” in your mind that keep you from being your best and truest self.

Rae will connect you with your voice of worry and wonder, teaches you to listen to your emotions rather than silence them, and encourages you to seize your dreams. Through a thoughtful blend of vulnerability, soulfulness, and science, Rae guides you in expressing the fullness of who you are and the gifts you’re here to give.

“The Empath Experience: What to Do When You Feel Everything,” by Sydney Campos
Learn to lead an empowered life with this supportive and positive guide for those who are discovering their empath abilities and looking for information to help in understanding their gift, as well as how to embrace it and thrive in everyday life.

In The Empath Experience, you’ll find detailed information on what it means to be an empath and the different ways this gift can influence your life in positive ways. There is also supportive advice on how to embrace the positive aspects of this special talent, get in touch with and understand your emotions, and tips and techniques to help you feel your best — even when someone else may be feeling their worst.

“Essential Oils Handbook: Recipes for Natural Living,” by Amy Leigh Mercree
Essential oils have wide-ranging healing powers, and this handbook by medical intuitive Amy Leigh Mercree explains how we can take full advantage of these natural wonders. It covers all the different grades of oil, which ones are safest, and how and when to use them. There are also expert recipes for combining oils and specific advice on ways they can alleviate allergies, coughs and colds; aid with weight loss and digestion; help with skin disorders, wrinkles, and acne; relieve insomnia and headaches; balance hormones; and even act as a bug repellent. If you are excited by natural healing, this book is for you.

“Getting Back to Happy: Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Reality, and Turn Your Trials Into Triumphs,” by Marc and Angel Chernoff
Marc and Angel Chernoff have become go-to voices in the area of personal development, reaching tens of thousands of fans each day with their fresh and relatable insights. This book reveals their strategies for changing thought patterns and daily habits to bounce back from tough times. Sharing never-before-published stories and advice, the book shows how to harness the power of daily rituals, mindfulness, self-care, and more to overcome whatever life throws our way–in order to become our best selves.

“Happier Now: How to Stop Chasing Perfection and Embrace Everyday Moments (Even the Difficult Ones)” by Nataly Kogan
This isn’t a book about positive thinking, silver linings, or always being happy. This is a book about living fully in good times and bad, and enjoying life more because of it. Nationally recognized happiness expert, Nataly Kogan, teaches readers how to stop searching for some elusive “big happy” in the future and start finding more joy in everyday moments. Drawing from science, Eastern traditions, her experience as a refugee, and her own failing search to find lasting happiness through career success, Kogan shares simple practices to help readers live happier and have greater resilience when times get tough. Readers will learn how to experience more joy and meaning, boost their “emotional immune system,” and embrace difficult times with compassion and stability.

“Note to Self: Inspiring Words from Inspiring People,” by Gayle King
Gayle King shares her favorite inspiring letters from the popular CBS This Morning segment Note to Self, in which twenty-first century luminaries pen advice and encouragement to the young people they once were.

What do Congressman John Lewis, Dr. Ruth, Kesha, and Kermit the Frog wish they could tell their younger selves? What about a gay NFL player or the most successful female racecar driver? In Note to Self, CBS This Morning cohost Gayle King shares some of the most memorable letters from the broadcast’s popular segment of the same name. With essays from such varied figures as Oprah, Vice President Joe Biden, Chelsea Handler, and Maya Angelou — as well as poignant words from a Newtown father and a military widow — this book is a reflection on the joys and challenges of growing up.

“The Power of Your Potential: How to Break Through Your Limits,” by John C. Maxwell
Many of us hold ourselves back because we firmly believe our abilities are finite. But what if our supposed limitations are just an illusion? Bestselling author, John Maxwell, identifies and examines the 17 key capacities each of us possesses. Some we are born with, such as how we think or how we naturally relate to other people. The rest are choices, often unconscious, including our attitude or personal disciplines. All are expandable.

Maxwell gives clear and actionable advice on what we can do to improve in each of these areas. From learning to manage your emotions and increase your energy, to conquering procrastination and becoming more comfortable with taking risks, you will surpass your own expectations to become a better you than you ever thought possible.

“Practical Meditation for Beginners: 10 Days to a Happier, Calmer You,” by Benjamin W. Decker
From Zen and Vipassana to walking meditations and body scans, the simple practices outlined in this book by experienced meditation teacher, Benjamin W. Decker, make it easy to build an ongoing meditation routine that is best for each person. Readers will experience a clear 10-day program for learning 10 different meditation techniques ― one for each day of the program. The book also offers step-by-step instructions, writing prompts, and daily structure.

“A Tribe Called Bliss: Break Through Superficial Friendships, Create Real Connections, Reach Your Higher Potential,” by Lori Harder
Lori Harder is a self-love expert with over 6 million listeners on her Earn Your Happy podcast. In A Tribe Called Bliss she shares the exact structure she used to build her own tribe and grow from the anxiety-ridden, unhealthy, introverted underachiever she was to the confident woman who takes risks and leaps out of her comfort zone, with a foreword from #1 New York Times bestselling author Gabrielle Bernstein.

The benefits of a having a tribe are undeniable. Women who have strong social circles are living longer, happier, healthier lives in comparison to those who lack connections and are mentally and physically exhausting themselves trying to quench external desires in isolation. In this book, Harder bridges the gap between inspiration and action, providing a lasting resource for positive change and a guidebook for establishing a support tribe. It includes lessons and contextual self-work exercises on how to develop the kind of awareness of the present moment that is the key to a lifetime of blissful happiness.

“The Wisdom of Shamans: What the Ancient Masters Can Teach Us About Love and Life,” by don Jose Ruiz
For generation after generation, Toltec shamans have passed down their wisdom through teaching stories. The purpose of these stories is to implant a seed of knowledge in the mind of the listener, where it can ultimately sprout and blossom into a new and better way of life.

In this new book, Toltec shaman and master storyteller don Jose Ruiz shares some of the most popular stories from his family’s oral tradition, and offers corresponding lessons that illustrate the larger ideas within each story. He begins by explaining that contrary to the stereotypical image of “witchdoctor,” the ancient shamans were men and women who fulfilled several roles within their communities: philosopher, spiritual guide, medical doctor, psychologist, and friend.

According to Ruiz, their teachings are not primitive or reserved for a chosen few initiates, but are instead a powerful series of lessons on love and life that are available us all. He has included exercises, meditations, and shamanic rituals in an effort to help readers experience the personal transformation these stories offer.

Elevated Existence April 2018 Spiritual and Self-Help Book Picks

Posted on by Tammy

Each month, a ton of new spiritual and self-help books hit the market. It’s easy to get overwhelmed or miss out on some new releases.

I created Elevated Existence Monthly Book Picks to help narrow down your search, and make sure you don’t miss some great options!

Here are the picks for March 2018. They are listed below in alphabetical order. Click on each title to go directly to Amazon and find out more about the book.

“Anxiety Happens: 52 Ways to Find Peace of Mind,” by John P. Forsyth PhD and Georg H. Elfert PhD
Building on the success of The Mindfulness and Acceptance Workbook for Anxiety, this quick reference guide offers fifty-two simple tools and strategies—one for each week of the year—based in proven-effective acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help you break free from worry, fear and panic. In addition to “in-the-moment” tools for staying calm, you’ll learn about the underlying causes of your anxiety, why avoidance just doesn’t work, how to move past your negative inner voice, and how focusing on your values can help you move past anxiety and live a rich, meaningful life.

AUDIO: “Beditations: Guided Meditations and Rituals for Rest and Renewal,” by Latham Thomas
With Beditations, bestselling author, acclaimed wellness expert and voice of women’s empowerment, Latham Thomas, shows you how to reboot yourself with a complete audio program designed to help you get grounded, present and centered; sleep better; and recharge your physical, cognitive, and spiritual reserves.

Created for maximum benefit with minimal effort, this audio guide explains how to “punctuate your days and nights with ritual and a rhythm of moments to restore and heal.” Thomas leads listeners through rejuvenating meditations and practices, plus a wealth of proven “life hacks” to boost your health, mental clarity and productivity.

This information-rich learning experience features both healing daytime practices and calming nighttime sessions, each with Latham’s personal guidance. You’ll also learn best practices, nightly rituals, and many other ways to boost your physical and mental energies, optimism and productivity.

“Dodging Energy Vampires: An Empath’s Guide to Evading Relationships That Drain You and Restoring Your Health and Power,” by Christiane Northrup, M.D.
In Dodging Energy Vampires, Christiane Northrup, M.D., draws on the latest research, along with stories from her global community and her own life, to explore the phenomenon of energy vampires and show us how we can spot them, dodge their tactics, and take back our own energy. You’ll delve into the dynamics of vampire-empath relationships and discover how vampires use others’ energy to fuel their own dysfunctional lives. Once you recognize the patterns of behavior that mark these relationships, you’ll be empowered to identify the vampires in your life too. She also offers a toolbox of techniques to use to leave these relationships behind, heal from them and let your own light shine.

“In Conclusion, Don’t Worry About It,” by Lauren Graham
In this expansion of the 2017 commencement speech she gave at her hometown Langley High, Lauren Graham, the beloved star of Gilmore Girls and Parenthood, reflects on growing up, pursuing your dreams, and living in the here and now.

“Whatever path you choose, whatever career you decide to go after, the important thing is that you keep finding joy in what you’re doing, especially when the joy isn’t finding you.”

Graham reminds us to be curious and compassionate, no matter where life takes us or what we’ve yet to achieve. Grounded and inspiring—and illustrated throughout with drawings by Graham herself—here is a comforting road map to a happy life.

“Kind is the New Classy: The Power of Living Graciously,” by Candace Cameron-Bure
Learning to stay true to herself with grace has been one of the biggest fights of Candace’s Cameron-Bure’s life. Known for her role on Full House, and her many Hallmark movies, she has learned the secret to it all is kindness. It’s classy, unexpected, even counter-cultural, and ultimately wins the day.

In Kind Is the New Classy, Candace reveals the thought patterns and practices that have empowered her to stay centered in who she is while practicing radical graciousness toward others. Whether you’re navigating major life choices, questions of calling and career, relationships, or personal goals, this book will show you how to keep your cool under pressure; respond to criticism with grace; stay grounded yet go places in life; stay true to who you are despite the expectations of others; stay centered in what ultimately matters the most; and more.

“Napoleon Hill’s Action Activities for Health, Wealth & Happiness,” by Napoleon Hill
It only takes a moment for each of us to realize that something needs to be changed. By taking positive action toward that change, the moment of our personal dedication can become an empowered movement! Many little actions soon add up to a lot. By letting little actions accumulate until they become too big to go unnoticed, we begin to change the world.

With contemporary commentary by Judith Williamson, the director of the Napoleon Hill World Learning Center, this book will guide you to live your own life, think your own thoughts, find your own goals, and achieve them by gaining power over your own mind. Simply by exercising this profound privilege, you can bring abundance into your life and with it know the greatest wealth of all peace of mind, without which there can be no real happiness.

Organized into short, easily digestible chapters complete with action activity prompts, this book is an interactive experience that can truly change the way you approach your success journey.

“This is How I Save My Life: From California to India, a True Story of Finding Everything When You Are Willing to Try Anything,” by Amy B. Scher
The true story of a fiery young woman’s heartwarming and hilarious journey that takes her from near-death in California to a trip around the world in search of her ultimate salvation. Along the way, she discovers a world of cultural mayhem, radical medical treatment, an unexpected romance, and, most importantly, a piece of her life she never even knew she was missing.

When Amy B. Scher was struck with undiagnosed late-stage, chronic Lyme disease, the best physicians in America labeled her condition incurable and potentially terminal. Deteriorating rapidly, she went on a search to save her own life — from the top experts in Los Angeles and the world-renowned Mayo Clinic in Minneapolis to a state-of-the-art hospital in Chicago. After exhausting all of her options in the US, she discovered a possible cure — but it was highly experimental, only available in India, and had as much of a probability of killing her as it did of curing her. Knowing the risks, Amy packed her bags anyway and flew across the world hoping to find the ultimate cure.

This Is How I Save My Life is a powerful and uplifting story of sheer determination for anyone who believes in–or doubts–the existence of miracles and self-healing when it seems like all hope is lost.

“Waking Up in Paris: Overcoming Darkness in the City of Light,” by Sonia Choquette
Devastated by the unexpected end of her decades-long marriage, renowned spiritual teacher and intuitive guide Sonia Choquette undertook an equally unexpected move and relocated to Paris, the scene of many happy memories from her life as a student and young mother. Arriving in the aftermath of the Charlie Hebdo massacre, she found a Paris as traumatized by this unforeseen event as she had been by her divorce. Together, over the following years, she and the city she loves began a journey of healing that involved deep soul-searching and acceptance of new, sometimes uncomfortable, reality.

In this follow-up to Walking Home, Sonia shares her intimate thoughts and fears, as well as the unique challenges of setting up a new life in a foreign land. From moving into a freezing, malodorous apartment, to a more pleasant—yet haunted—flat across the Seine, to her current light-filled home, Sonia shares how these changes parallel her inner transformation.

Along the way, Sonia regales readers with vivid stories of her unfortunate encounters with French hairdressers and beauticians, her adventures in French fashion, and her search for the perfect neighborhood café. Her companion throughout is the city of Paris—a character unto itself—which never ceases to fill her with wonder, surprise, and delight, and provides her with the spiritual strength to succeed in establishing her new life.

Elevated Existence March 2018 Spiritual Self-Help Book Picks

Posted on by Tammy

Each month, a ton of new spiritual and self-help books hit the market. It’s easy to get overwhelmed or miss out on some new releases.

I created Elevated Existence Monthly Book Picks to help narrow down your search, and make sure you don’t miss some great options!

Here are the picks for March 2018. They are listed below in alphabetical order. Click on each title to go directly to Amazon and find out more about the book.

“Dodging Energy Vampires: An Empath’s Guide to Evading Relationships that Drain You and Restoring Your Health and Power,” by Christiane Northrup, M.D.
In Dodging Energy Vampires, Christiane Northrup, M.D., draws on the latest research, along with stories from her global community and her own life, to explore the phenomenon of energy vampires and show us how we can spot them, dodge their tactics, and take back our own energy. Readers will delve into the dynamics of vampire-empath relationships and discover how vampires use others’ energy to fuel their own dysfunctional lives. Once you recognize the patterns of behavior that mark these relationships, you’ll be empowered to identify the vampires in your life too. Dr. Northrup opens up a toolbox full of techniques to use so you can leave these harmful relationships behind; heal from the darkness they’ve cast over your mind, body, and spirit; and let your own light shine.

“Energy Strands: The Ultimate Guide to Clearing the Cords that are Constricting Your Life,” by Denise Linn
Discover the cables, ropes, ribbons, strands, threads, and filaments of energy that flow to and through you and learn ancient shamanic techniques to release the cords that bind you and empower the strands that strengthen and heal you from author Denise Linn. She also shares some of the methods she’s learned over the years to support you in finding harmony and balance in your life through understanding these lines of energy. Topics covered include attachments with family, ancestors, friends, lovers, crowds, and pets. The book also explores the connection between sound (crystal bowls), breath, meditation and visualization in strands. You will gain practical tools to clear negative cords from unhealthy attachments, toxic relationships and spaces.

“From Never Mind to Ever Mind: Transforming the Self to Embrace Miracles,” Robert Rosenthal, M.D.
When we don’t know what we want to create, we bounce from one desire to the next, in search of a better job, relationship, money and more. In his new book Robert Rosenthal M.D. shares an approach based on A Course in Miracles, explaining that only when we recognize and remove the obstacles to our true nature and the presence of love within us and within all beings, will we know the truth of who we are (and what we want). He takes readers on a journey of undoing, to demonstrate conclusively the false assumptions from which our current sense of self is constructed so we can gently release them and experience Spirit within. We don’t know what will make us happy, but our true self does, and will gladly reveal itself and show us the way if and when we allow it.

“The Gratitude Formula: A 7-Step Success System to Create a Life that You Love,” by May McCarthy
In The Gratitude Formula, May McCarthy offers a definable, practical system you can put to use every day to achieve success in your relationships, career, finances, health, personal pursuits, spiritual growth, and virtually any other aspect of your life. While her method is built upon starting each day with a grateful heart, the details of her 7-step practice, including the importance of implementing them on a daily basis, is the key to creating a life that you love.

You will learn how to create powerful, practical and achievable goals; develop your spiritual intuition to help you manifest and achieve your dreams; untangle from any doubts, fears or behaviors holding you back from abundance; and say yes to prosperity and limitless possibilities.

“The Mindful Day: Practical Ways to Find Focus, Calm and Joy From Morning to Evening,” by Laurie J. Cameron
Designed for busy professionals looking to integrate mindfulness into their daily lives, this guide draws on contemplative practice, modern neuroscience, and positive psychology to bring peace and focus to the home, in the workplace and beyond. Noted mindfulness expert and international teacher and business leader Laurie J. Cameron — a veteran of the Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute, a Senior Fellow at the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being at George Mason, and 20-year mindfulness meditation practitioner — shows how to seamlessly weave mindfulness and compassion practices into your life. It includes straightforward exercises designed for busy schedules.

“Money, Manifestation & Miracles: A Guide to Transforming Women’s Relationship with Money,” by Meriflor Toneatto
When women are empowered with money, they become “difference makers,” transforming not only their own lives, but also those of their children, families and communities at large. Author Meriflor Toneatto, an award-winning leadership and coaching executive, shows how to extend your limits and create the life of your dreams — financially, spiritually and emotionally. She explains how money is “emotional currency” and prescribes eight Holistic Principles to overcome deep-seated blocks, “pay forward” your own successes, and live the life of your dreams.

“Permanent Marker: A Memoir,” by Aimee Ross
Aimee Ross was living a perfectly normal life raising three kids, married to her high school sweetheart, and teaching at her high school alma mater. Life was perfect right, until it wasn’t. Unhappy in her marriage, she asked for a divorce. Three days later, she suffered a heart attack at age forty-one. Five months after that, she survived a near-fatal car crash caused by an intoxicated driver. Her physical recovery took months and left her body marked by scars. The emotional recovery, though, would take longer, as Aimee sought to forgive the man who almost killed her and to forgive herself for tearing apart her family. This book will take readers on a journey of healing, proving light, new love and renewed purpose for life can come from darkness.

“Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core of Calm, Strength and Happiness,” by Rick Hanson, Ph.D.
True resilience is much more than enduring terrible conditions. We need resilience every day to raise a family, work at a job, cope with stress, deal with health problems, navigate issues with others, heal from old pain, and simply keep on going. Blending neuroscience, mindfulness and positive psychology, New York Times bestselling author Dr. Rick Hanson shows readers how to develop 12 vital inner strengths hardwired into our nervous system. Then no matter what life throws at us, we will be able to feel less stressed, pursue opportunities with confidence, and stay calm and centered in the face of adversity. The book offers concrete suggestions, experiential practices, personal examples, and insights into the brain, and includes effective ways to interact with others and repair and deepen important relationships.

“This Messy Magnificent Life: A Field Guide,” by Geneen Roth
With humor, compassion, and insight, This Messy Magnificent Life explores the personal beliefs, hidden traumas, and social pressures that shape not just women’s feelings about their bodies, but also their confidence, choices and relationships. Geneen Roth looks at the imperfect path women take to step into their own power, presence and ownership, and bases it on her own personal journey, and decades of work with thousands of women around the country.

Roth embraces everyone’s unique and often unsung potential and shows us how to be open, curious and kind with ourselves; how to say no to people and ideas that hold us back; how to let go of grudges and anxieties; how to pick ourselves up after setbacks; how to say a resounding yes to the world; how to move from fixing ourselves to finding ourselves; how to find joy in the ordinary; and how to experience the extraordinary right here and now in our bodies.

“We Consciousness: 33 Profound Truths for Inner and Outer Peace,” by Karen Noe
After best-selling author Dr. Wayne W. Dyer left the physical plane in 2015, psychic medium Karen Noé began receiving very profound and specific messages from him for his family — and for the world. While Wayne comes through to Karen singularly, he also comes through together with a group of other celestial beings called the We Guides, which includes Saint Francis of Assisi and countless other angels and ascended masters.

Wayne and the We Guides share 33 concepts that make up the We Consciousness — and they all point toward us becoming an instrument of peace. In order to extend peace outside of ourselves, we must first feel peace within ourselves. We must expect to see peace everywhere, and acknowledge the infinite peace that we are. Then we must live that identity to the fullest. After understanding and applying these ideas, readers will be able to create miracles in their life and the lives of others as well, and learn to create heaven on Earth.

“Your Holiness: Discover the Light Within,” by Debbie Ford
In a recently discovered unpublished work by the beloved spiritual teacher and #1 New York Times bestselling author, Debbie Ford, she reflects on the astonishing holiness that resides in each of us.

“What you are seeking at the deepest level exists inside of you, in the quietude of your own inner world, in the privacy of your own sweet heart. So now it’s your responsibility, your holy responsibility, to encode your consciousness with thoughts, feelings and images that will support you in creating the perfect internal environment to cultivate a deep and intimate relationship with the one you call God. This is the force that loves you, cheers for you and wants it all for you. In a world where love leaves as quickly as it comes, you can rest now, knowing that you have found a love that will never leave you, never misguide you and never ever let you down. My advice, dear friend, is take great care of that Love. It will give you everything you’ve been looking for.”

On the fifth anniversary of her death and written during her long battle with cancer, Your Holiness is a thoughtful and poignant exploration of the godliness that resides in all of us. Infused with her trademark frank honesty and keen insight, it is a blueprint for recognizing and accepting our latent spirituality. Debbie combines motivational prayers with deeply personal stories about her own spiritual journey — how she struggled and eventually found her internal faith — and translates her experience into a practical path for transformation.