by: Jennine Estes
www.sandiegocounseling.blogspot.com
www.estestherapy.com
Saying Good-Bye to Critical Thoughts

Summer’s on its way and for San Diego that means it’s a time for beaches, barbeques, and fun in the sun! Many of us find ourselves making healthy decisions like switching to water instead of drinking soda, exercising a couple more times a week, or resisting the urge to eat that second sliver of cake while others sometimes make unhealthy–potentially dangerous–choices in a rush effort to shed those lingering holiday pounds: skipping meals, crash dieting, or running on the treadmill until being on the verge of collapse. Body image is important to most everybody–a fact that is felt even more so in a city known for having beautiful people.

Images seen in magazines of people who have been either professionally trained or surgically sculpted can inadvertently create a sense of anxiety which spurs harmful critical thoughts. Some examples of critical thoughts include the following:

-“I am fat. I HAVE to lose weight.”
-“How come everyone else can lose weight, but I can’t?”
-“I will only be happy if I lose weight.”
-“I NEED to go on a diet.”

Absolute phrases and words such as have to, only if, must, and need are key signs critical thinking is plaguing our minds. Critical thoughts can also manifest themselves in the form of seemingly innocuous little phrases that we automatically tell ourselves every day. For example, “I should have…” or “Why didn’t I…?” or “I needed to…” are ways we criticize our past decisions (or lack thereof) in an effort to take control of them today. In some cases critical thoughts can do the exact opposite of the action they’re meant to reinforce, causing us to give up on our goals when the self-imposed “need to” and “have to” extremist goals aren’t met. This outcome is aided by the fact that most of us use critical thoughts in attempt to drive ourselves up the ladder of achievement with relentless, oft times self-depreciating talk laden with rigid goals and unrealistic parameters: one can’t expect to burn five pounds a week simply by chanting critical thoughts in their head–action must be taken.

To avoid setting up for failure, we should focus on learning to nurture and care for ourselves and our goals, appreciating the process of achievement instead of setting our sights solely on the outcome. Finding a way to validate our frustrations without the use of critical thoughts and being able to recognize the critical thinking when it hits us in tandem with the ability to decrease both their frequency and impact is key to removing mental roadblocks that prevent us from being where we want to be.

Steps to Stop the Critical Thoughts

- Recognize the critical thought: Critical thoughts can rear their ugly heads up to 15 times within half an hour. Note that absolutes and directives such as must, have to, need, and always. Being able to see something that is engrained in our psyche can be difficult at first, but practice will lead to you eventually being able to see the negative critical thoughts so you can block them out altogether!

- Neutralize the power of the critical thought: You’ve identified the thought as being critical, now understand that is self-depreciating, negative, and unrealistic. By seeing these traits within the statement, you will be assisted in seeing the critical thought’s value for what it’s worth—absolutely nothing.

- Counter the critical thought by providing yourself with nurturing and validation: Tell yourself phrases such as “There is nothing wrong with me .” or “I am doing a good job.” Saying simple things like, “I did my best.” And “I’m getting there.” Are ways of telling yourself that you’re enduring and enjoying the experience the road to achievement is putting you through. Self-talk that reflects back on what you’ve accomplished as opposed to dwelling too much on what you’ve yet to gain help keep you in the moment and prevent you from being overwhelmed by a goal that may yet be a ways off.

- Notice the replacement positive behavior: Critical thoughts will always reside somewhere in your brain, but now you have a grasp on positive reinforcement and gradually the negative self-talk will be replaced with inspiring, success-oriented thinking. Eventually your mind will automatically conjure positive reinforcement in lieu of the damaging critical thinking.

Remember, it is perfectly acceptable to admit defeat (“Yes, it does hurt” or “I keep beating myself up”). Honestly validating why you’re not satisfied with where you’re at helps you naturally transition into a more well-adjusted state instead of trying the miracle method of instantly feeling better.

Quick Tips for Whipping Your Thinking into Shape

• Don’t set unrealistic goals

• Avoid influences that spur critical thoughts (magazines, celebrity news shows, etc.)

• Become aware of what the words you telling yourself really mean: know that “shoulda, coulda, woulda” was yesterday and “I will.” is a promise.

• Don’t invest your expectations too much into the end result which leads to anxiety and automatic failure–be sure to enjoy the ride getting there.

• Notice critical thoughts, and counter them with nurturing ones.

• Yesterday’s gone; tomorrow isn’t here yet; focus on The Now.

Jennine E. Estes, M.A., is a Marriage and Family Therapist Intern (IMF#47211) with her practice in San Diego. She is supervised by Dr. Mark Kaupp, MFC#33213. For more information about her, please visit http://www.EstesTherapy.com or visit her blog at http://www.sandiegocounsleing.blogspot.com.

By: Lisa Kift, MFT

If there’s one thing that we all seek - it’s happiness. I’ve never met a person who has told me they didn’t want to be happy, have you? When I do individual therapy, I have the opportunity to sit down with people as they present their concerns to me - whatever they may be. They usually seek therapy because they’re experiencing some level of emotional distress - and are fundamentally unhappy. I’ve noticed that a number of things come up over and over for people as reasons why this is so. There are certain things they either have - or don’t have - and with this information I’ve been able to come to an understanding of a question posed by many:

“What makes people happy?”

What do they have that others don’t? What’s their secret?

The following are my 6 secret qualities of happy people, in no particular order:

1) Absence of Toxic Shame: In the book, “Healing the Shame That Binds You,” John Bradshaw describes the difference between healthy vs toxic shame in that, “Healthy shame is an emotion which signals us about our limits…and keeps us grounded,” where “Toxic shame is experienced as the all-pervasive sense that I am flawed and defective as a human being.” Truly happy people have a strong sense of themselves and their value, in other words, an absence of toxic shame. This usually comes from a nurturing, loving and supportive experience in their families of origin. There are many reasons why people struggle with toxic shame. I find it often lies at the core of some depression, anxiety and perfectionism.

2) Absence of Resentment: Really happy people seem to be more successful at forgiveness. In addition, they often haven’t personalized the experience to the degree that others do. When you are good at letting things go - you don’t drag the burden of resentment around with you. Those who hold onto anger or grudges towards others for long periods of time can experience internal emotional distress that leads to bitterness, frustration and often health problems. They can also struggle with depression and excessive anger.

3) Living their Passion: People who are doing work that is satisfying to them, whether they simply enjoy showing up every day - or is more rewarding on a deeper level - tend to be happier. The same applies to those who have found a hobby or cause that brings them joy, whether it’s associated with work or not. Those who dislike their jobs and truly hate getting up every day to go to work tend to have an underlying baseline of life dissatisfaction that can lead to unhappiness. This is particularly true if they’re not engaging in something outside of work that touches that energizing place inside of them - which could atleast partially offset the impact of their unrewarding job.

4) Dreams for the Future: Those who have hopes, plans and excitement for the future are typically happier. They believe they can carry out their dreams - and can actually visualize them coming true. People who struggle with imagining what their futures might hold often don’t really believe that good things could actually happen for them. It’s possible their past or present have been so dismal that they’re unable to project positive things for the future. This is a very common belief of those struggling with depression. They may believe, “I can’t,” or “I don’t deserve.”

5) Ability to Stay in the Moment: Those who have mastered the skill to stay present - or in the moment - tend to be happier. Future worry is common for many people. Those who struggle with anxiety and depression often experience intense worry about about all sorts of things that can or might happen, so much so that the thinking creates an unpleasant emotional experience as if it’s actually occurred!

6) Connections to People: Happy people usually are connected to other people by supportive and loving relationships, no matter whether a few or many. There could be an argument that there are exceptions to this, but by and large, people need other people. From the time we are born, we seek to form attachments to our primary caregivers. Depending on the quality of these attachments, we will usually seek to form friendships and then - intimate partnerships. I’ve found that many unhappy people feel disconnected in some way to others - which can be very painful. Sometimes they are afraid to connect and other times their behavior is disconnecting. Regardless, for those who believe they need other people - and feel alone - a deep sense of unhappiness is common.

Like I mentioned previously, no matter who or where we are in this world, one of the ties that binds us together is the desire for happiness. Many of us know someone who seems to be a truly happy person. There’s something almost magical about them, their level of serenity, joy and state of “knowing” that everything will work out. And if doesn’t, it will still eventually be ok. I imagine that this person likely has all of the 6 happiness qualities I mentioned above. There are so many things that influence our emotional and psychological development. I believe that barring environmental chaos, (war, poverty, living conditions, etc) and severe psychological disturbance, we all have the ability to be “happy.”

It can require a bit of work to tackle the things that might be blocking us from that very achievable goal - shame, resentment, lack of dreams, future worry, isolation and/or lack of a life passion. The great news is I’ve seen it done enough times in my work as a therapist to know - it’s absolutely possible.

Lisa has written numerous articles on mental health and relationship topics which can be seen on her popular Therapy and Counseling Blog. She is also the creator of two new mental health and relationship resource blogs called, The Mental Health Place and The Healthy Relationships Place.

No matter how most people try hard, they wear so many different masks every time they face others. Why is this so? One clear reason they do this is for them to hide the flaming emotions that burn from within.

Truth is, they are hiding from events or people or scenarios that inflicted pain. They try to avoid these by wearing happy faces in front of the people that hurt them. Fake happiness is something that should be avoided. Generally, every fake emotion is something that has to be shut down. If you feel like crying then go ahead. If you can’t cry in public, then promise yourself a good cry at home.

You may find comfort with the mask that you are wearing but then sooner or later you will be living with a life full of lies. Open up, cry, get mad, shout and do whatever is needed to let that emotion out. Once everything is out, then its about time you explore true happiness and try to live with it for the rest of your life.

Cindy Libman, LICSW, LMFT, AEH
Pat Davies, MA, LP, LMFT, AEH   

Many people today are becoming aware of their innate ability to heal themselves. Healing can
mean any kind of transformation of blocked energy – be it physical, emotional, or spiritual. In the
physical body, blockages can be experienced as tension, tightness, numbness, or pain. In the
emotional body, blockages can take the form of depression, agitation, fear, disappointment, or
grief. In the mental field, blocked energy manifests as negative belief systems, denial, and
judgments. Any discomfort in your body or in your life is a direct message that you are out of
alignment with your true Self. Messages of discomfort can be received through our senses, our
thoughts, or in the form of metaphors. As you become consciously aware of these signals of
discomfort, you can use the following practice of Awareness Release Technique (ART) to
release these blocked energies.

Stage One – Centering and Invocation

Sit quietly and begin to breathe. Consciously breathe deeply and evenly to facilitate a
connection to your inner guidance. Invite your higher Self (the higher, wiser you that is your true
Self) to guide you in this process. You can also call for the assistance of the universal energy,
God, or any other Enlightened Being. Take about five minutes for centering and invocation.
Your intention is to discover the core energy of a specific problem (physical, mental, or
emotional).

Stage Two – Awareness

Awareness is a quality of your soul. Allow your awareness to scan your body and show you
where it wants to work. Use your awareness like the beam of a light from a flashlight,
illuminating a particular place in your body. A sense of pressure or discomfort (physical or
mental) will show you where you need to begin. An energy block is a dense, unconscious, lower
frequency vibration – a stagnant energy. This is a very important step, because often simply
bringing your attention to the block begins to release it. ART brings awareness into the dense
energy, increasing its vibration so that it can begin to move. Continuing to focus awareness
there allows the energy to expand and reveal itself to you.

Stage Three – Identification

Imagine that the energy you’re experiencing could be seen. Begin to look carefully at the
size, shape, color, and texture. Feel into it and expand your heart. You want to get as much
information about this energy as possible, because with information comes understanding. The
more clarity you have, the easier it will be to release. Ask yourself these questions:

.. Where is it? Pinpoint the exact location in the body.
.. Are there borders?
.. How big is it?
.. Is it contained in the body or does it expand out of the body?
.. What shape does the energy take?
.. Does it have a color?
.. What is the texture?
.. Is it hot or cold?
.. Are there any sounds or words associated with the energy?
.. What does the energy have to say to you about the problem?

Stage Four – Release

The release begins the moment your awareness touches the energy. The awareness goes
into the block, expanding it. As it expands, you may get in touch with the deeper emotional
aspect of the problem. The release may begin subtly and build with time until there is a moment
when a push is needed. Often sound or physical movement helps the energy to begin to
release. Remember that the blockage may have many layers, because it may have been
repressed for years out of fear and denial. Just soften, breathe, and allow the energy to move
as it wants to.

Continue to breathe consciously, allowing the higher Self to work through you rather than
trying to figure everything out. Breathe, wait, watch, be patient, and trust the process – holding
loving kindness for yourself and the energy. Each block is a teaching for the soul. As the energy
is released, you may feel a shift, feel or see light, and have a greater sense of your true Self.

Stage Five – Integration

After the release, a vacuum exists where the energy was. The integration stage involves
filling of the vacuum with the qualities of your essence that were obscured by the blockage.
These are qualities such as unconditional love and freedom. The more awareness you bring to
it, the more your true essence can fill the space.

Stage Six – Gratitude

You’ll know that healing has occurred when a feeling of gratitude wells up and expands your
heart. Sit and breathe this energy of gratitude until you feel complete. There is a sense of well-
being, connection to yourself and others. There may be a sense of deep calmness and even
bliss. To ground this experience, you might journal, draw, or create a symbol or affirmation that
represents the transformation. This is a process that takes practice and can facilitate deeper
and deeper healing with repeated use. Working (either individually or in a group setting) with
others who have experience with ART can often be helpful.

Note: Dr. Robert Jaffe taught this process in his energy school. It was expanded on and taught
to us by AlixSandra Parness, founder of the Inner Focus School for Soul Directed Advanced
Energy Healing (www.InnerFocus.org).

Would you like a safe, natural way to heal your body and mind?
Now you can experience the healing energies used by the Pharaohs to promote personal power and vitality.

Hidden Knowledge Revealed: For 3,000 years statues of the Pharaohs depicted them holding two rods.  Only the Pharaohs and their High Priests were ever allowed to touch what we now know are healing devices.  When the Egyptian dynasties ended, knowledge of the purpose and use of the rods was known only to a few secret mystical societies who kept their existence hidden until a European nobleman revealed them to the world.

The therapy is now certificated by the IPTI and these Healing Rods, the authentic and proven energy tools of the Pharaohs, are now available for you to enhance your business.

The Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt used these healing tools for self empowerment and to stimulate the body to help reduce stress, fatigue, blood pressure, increase psychic development, open and clear the chakra fields, improve immune function and many other benefits.

The Cylindrical Rods are a pair, one being Copper, associated with the Sun (Yang) and a Zinc Rod associated with the Moon (Yin).

The Healing Rods are energetically conditioned in a 72ft pyramid in St Petersburg, Russia, (The Seliger Pyramid) built by Alexander Golod. The Rods and the Pyramid thus synergize a single and inseparable entity. They represent a technology of the 21st century, which will allow us to greatly improve our mental and physical abilities.

There are many people benefiting from these amazing products. When held there is a definite pulsing action going on in the hands. The client is left feeling calm, stress free and focused. People who have any aches and pains also report a difference

Widen your Horizon and earn extra money from a simple treatment

Angel Health is proudly offering a Healing Rod Therapy Course for Therapists who would like to use these tools within their practice. The course fee is $299. With rods $599 (optional)

This includes on-line training, support, manual and certificate.

If you would like to know about the Healing Rod Course please contact Angel Health on the number below for more information.       

00353-94-9880770 (Ireland)                         

The Rods have been used to help reduce the symptoms of:
•Insomnia   •Stress   •Fatigue   •High Blood Pressure   •Arteriosclerosis   •High Blood Pressure   •Gastric Distress, plus more 

Increase your energy & reduce stress
All of us are exposed to negative energy every day.  These harmful influences can come from the attitudes of people we encounter, world events, environmental pollution and the stress of everyday living.  Daily exposure to these negative influences can simply wear you down and leave you open to fatigue, depression, anger and disease.  The Healing Rods can restore your energy and reduce the harmful effects of stress and negative energy by helping to return your body to its natural balance.  THE RODS CAN HELP YOU TO FEEL MORE CALM AND CENTERED.  With your mind clear, you will find it easier to focus and accomplish more with less stress.  If you work as a healer, counsellor or body worker, you know how working closely with many people each day can deplete you.  Using the healing rods between sessions can restore your energy and clear your mind so that you can give each client or patient your best.

Enhance Inner Development
Whether you are an experienced mediator or simply want to advance your psychic development, THE HEALING RODS HAVE A PROFOUND EFFECT ON INNER LEVELS.  Numerous studies suggest that the rods can:
•Balance Yin/Yang Energies
•Enhance Mediation Practice
•Expand Energy Awareness
•Strengthen the Bio-Field
•Open All Chakras
•Increase Psychic Abilities
•Harmonize Energies Between Couples

The Pharaohs used the rods as part of their spiritual development, to attune themselves to Cosmic Forces.  If you’ve been searching for a way to take the next step on your Spiritual Journey, THE RODS CAN MAKE YOUR MEDITATION MORE PROFOUND AND OPEN INNER CHANNELS TO HELP YOU CONNECT WITH HIGHER LEVELS.

Scientific Studies
As we stated before, the reason that the rods have such a profound impact on disease is that they improve the energy flow in the body.  In Russia, where the rods are made, medical doctors, physicists and astro-psychologists have conducted numerous scientific tests on them. They observed that when holding the rods an electrical current moves through the body. Kirlian photography, which shows the energy flow in the body, reveals that SEVEN MINUTES OF HOLDING THE RODS HAS THE SAME EFFECT AS 30 MINUTES OF ACUPUNCTURE.  This current has been shown to follow the meridians used in acupuncture.  THE RODS “CLEANSE” THE MERIDIAN SYSTEM WHICH, ALLOWS ENERGY TO MOVE MORE FREELY THROUGH THE BODY.

It is important to understand that the rods do not heal directly.  Instead they balance the body and strengthen the immune response system SO THE BODY CAN HEAL ITSELF.

The Secrets of the Rods
Egyptian Pharaohs understood the energy flow in the body and the importance of balancing the Yin and Yang (Female and Male energies).  In order to enhance the effectiveness of the rods, a different type was made for each hand.  This same principle is used to create today’s scientifically engineered healing rods. A copper rod (signifying the Sun and Masculine Energy) was created to use in the right hand.  A zinc rod (signifying the Moon and Feminine Energy) was developed for the left hand.  When held properly, the rods create an electrical conduit that both increases energy flow and improves the functioning of the central nervous system.  Different materials are inserted into the rods, depending upon the intended effect, such as physical healing or spiritual development. 

That is why we offer four types of rods; each designed to help you achieve specific goals.

How to Choose the Rods
Pharaoh’s Healing Rods come in four basic styles:
Rods-Kont prepare the energy system for expansion. They stimulate the body’s natural healing response. Rods-Kont may lower blood pressure, help one relax and will reduce insomnia symptoms. Rods-Kont are generally described by customers as Relaxing and Grounding.
Rods-Quartz also prepare the energy system for expansion, however their crystalline filling operates at a different frequency. They stimulate a healing response in the body and enhance meditation practice. Customers describe the Rods-Quartz as soothing and cantering. They are the most universally appropriate selection for individuals who wish to expand their energy field. Holding the Rods-Quartz for 7 - 12 minutes balances the Chi and offers a response very similar to a 30-minute acupuncture session.
Rods-Crystal are energizing and stimulate mental and psychic energies. It is recommended that one be an experienced “Energy Worker” before using the Rods-Crystal. They also expand the Bio-Field and open all chakras, however, they do this far more quickly than the Kont or Quartz Rods. This could be uncomfortable if one who is aged or infirm. Rods-Crystal are very useful for meditation and psychic development.
Rods-Free are designed to rapidly correct Yin and Yang imbalances. In Chinese medicine a number of symptoms suggest an imbalance in one of these essential energy flows. The Rods-Free are only sold through a qualified health practitioner.

The rods help with:
• Relaxation, Stress and Fatigue, High Blood pressure,

Anxiety and Phobias, Pain relief/ Trauma

They also energize and increase mental agility bringing you into harmony and balance.

“I quickly feel revitalized after a stressful day of work. Thank you!” - J.L., Business Owner

“I am using the Rods with clients. They seem to obtain clarity far more quickly than when we just talk about their challenges” - T. L., career coach

For clarifications email: mail@angelhealth.co.uk

Salvia divinorum has made a name rapidly in today’s society as a legal alternative to marijuana. However, eight states have already placed restrictions on salvia and considered it as an illegal substance. Mere possession of is punishable by up to five years in prison.

Tagged as Sally - D, Magic Mind and Diviner’s Sage, Salvia is considered as a hallucinogen that gives users an out - of - body sense of traveling through time and space or gives them the thought that they are merging with an inanimate object. As compared to other hallucinogens such as LSD or PCP, Salvia’s effects are rather shorter and generally lasts up to an hour only.

Although no death has been linked to the use of salvia, it was tagged as a factor in one of Delaware teen’s suicide that occurred 2 years ago. Psychologists say that salvia is more powerful than marijuana. The teen’s mother said that salvia made the boy’s mood darker but then he justified this by saying the legality of the drug.

Salvia is sold in various flavors including apple, spearmint and strawberry and costs around $30 on the world wide web. Bearing the testimonial, “It might sound far fetched, but I experienced immortality”, Salvia has been selling like hot cakes on the Internet.

As far as law makers and various politicians are concerned, the use of salvia is illegal and as quoted from Florida state Senator Evelyn Lynn, “I’d rather be at the front edge of preventing the dangers of the drug than waiting until we are the 40th or even more”.

By: Eric Bryant (eric.bryant@gnosisarts.com)

Recently I’ve been confronted by philosophical
practitioners who claim that spirituality has no place in philosophical
counseling or psychotherapy. Since philosophy deals with the objects of reason, they
argue,
spiritual themes have no place because spirituality doesn’t deal with
scientifically or rationally verifiable truths.

“This is not philosophy,” said Lydia, a professor of philosophy and
philosophical counselor, concerning using the I Ching as a therapeutic tool. “As
philosophical practitioners, we do not give advice nor do we endorse religious
or spiritual views,” Lydia added. “You should call it what it is: spiritual
counseling, not philosophical counseling.”

Schlomit Shuster, an Israeli philosophical counselor, believes that religion
and philosophical counseling are incompatible. When I asked her to provide our
company with a link from her website, she said that I should “consider not using
the I Ching. It would
really help you a lot.”

I’m not sure how prevalent this prejudice against using spiritual concepts
and tools in philosophical counseling is among the philosophical practitioner
community. So, I posted a poll. The question is: Is spirituality permissible in
philosophical counseling?

Quite contrary to the few dissenters, the poll results showed overwhelming support
for spiritual discussion in philosophical counseling in particular, and in therapy
in general.

Of course, as a philosophical practitioner who utilizes religious literature
in his counseling sessions, I completely disagree with the anti-spirituality bias. I
think
philosophy is (or should be) the love of wisdom; therefore, wherever wisdom
comes from, I think it is appropriate to use it in philosophical counseling.

Unfortunately, today’s philosophers are more concerned with the problems of
logic and linguistics than the problems of life and living. As one of my
philosophy professors was wont to say, “Philosophy as the search for wisdom has
grown far too thin.”

If we call ourselves philosophers, then what we are saying is that we love
wisdom. And wisdom means practical knowledge in action. Wisdom means learning
how to live life morally, prudently, happily. And no matter what our personal
prejudice is regarding religion, the world’s great religious traditions do
contain spiritual wisdom that has helped countless individuals live wisely. We
should not disparage the things of spirit simply because they are not up to our
standards of reason and scientific justification.

I have read through a couple of the articles that our dear therapists have posted and I got struck by those that talked about how we handle stress and love. Actually, I have been having a whole lot of problems of my own and I really could not find good ways to cope up with stress and life itself.

I tried talking to people but the problem is, most of them give advise without even listening to what I have to say. Most of the time, they push me to do the things that they want me to do. Because of this, I had to discard a handful of friends out of my life. All I needed was someone to listen to me, hear what I have to say and more importantly, give advise but do not push me to do what they want to be done.

Because of the therapists here, I got a whole new point of view. For example, if I feel drenched with problems, I run to my room, grab a pillow and shout my lungs out. It is nice to have professionals always available to help out.

Running head: Wallace/ Kobiashi Maru

By Seth W. Wallace, Ph.D., LPC

This paper defends the holistic yet paradoxical assertion that reality is simultaneously ‘absolute’ and ‘socially constructed.’ Within this paradigm, health is operationally defined. Subsequently, the use of prayer as a healing technique is evaluated. It is hypothesized that prayer promotes a state ‘mindfulness,’ a union of mind, body and spirit (MBS). This ‘perfect triadic union’ is believed to promote healing by removing any obstacles that inhibit balance within the MBS system. A new formula, derived from a combination of Reductionistic Newtonian thought, Quantum physics, and Prayer (as operationally define) is outlined. The spontaneous regression of cancer (SRC) is used as an empirical illustration. Finally, a qualitative reaction is proffered. Psychologists (particularly Health Psychologists), Professional Counselors and other qualified mental health professionals are encouraged to contemplate this concept.

I. Introduction: The Kobiashi Maru Scenario; a fictional example of a layered reality

Star Trek fans were first introduced to the Kobiashi Maru scenario during the 1984 motion picture, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Kahn. During the movie’s climax, with the protagonists mired in an apparently inescapable situation, Captain Kirk reveals how he ‘passed’ the Kobiashi Maru scenario. He explains to an eager officer that it took a new, multi-dimensional manner of thinking to pass the Kobiashi Maru test. He realized that in order to ‘win,’ he had to act outside of the scenario. Therefore, on the night before his scheduled third attempt to rescue the repeatedly doomed Kobiashi Maru, he crept secretly into Starfleet Command and reprogrammed the computer-generated training scenario.

This raises a fundamental question: Did Kirk cheat? Or did he use holistic creativity to construct his own (paradoxically) absolute reality? How Health Psychologists answer this question is central to the type and scope of interventions they may choose to employ.

Einstein, a Classical (Newtonian) physicist and Absolutist, would (I think) assert that Kirk cheated. He would insist that only one reality exists and would probably argue that by changing the computer program Kirk hadn’t created a new reality; he’d merely altered his perspective and/or position within one reality. Reductionism lies at the core of Classical physics and has been a productive paradigm within which to study and comprehend the relative laws of our physical world. The inductive process of examining microstructure and activity in order to hypothesize about the formation and action of larger systems has resulted in the accumulation of invaluable data. We now know that all matter strives to reach its most stable form, a state of homeostasis. This ‘natural law’ discovered by Classical physicists is one reason it can be argued that every day events are organized and predictable. Consequently, it can be assumed that the physical health of a human being can be reliably and validly assessed and, if necessary, properly addressed. A belief in reductionism linked Freud and Einstein. They both believed that the beauty of the world and the brilliance of a potential Creator lay within the ultimate simplicity embedded within the overt complexity of nature. Thus Freud’s reductionistic depiction of the mind. The overall function of his structurally triadic system is the attainment of homeostasis between three competitive forces. Freud maintained (according to this writer’s interpretation) that all mental activity, no matter how complex, is rooted within the struggle for balance between the id, ego, and super-ego. Therefore, while a Health Psychologist might be in the company of fine intellect were he/she to agree solely with the notion that our one reality can be understood through reductionism, that particular Health Psychologist probably wouldn’t have been welcome aboard Admiral Kirk’s Starship! Why? Because any reciprocal and/or causal mind-body interventions the psychologist might implement would necessarily have to adhere to the laws of the ‘known’ empirical reality. His and/or her interventions would evolve from within a reality of which we are conscious (the equivalent of solving the Kobiashi Maru scenario by not altering the computer program). While this may not prevent the successful implementation of the psychologist’s interventions, her/his (admittedly attractive) adherence to absolutism would limit what he or she might be able to do. Moreover, it would prevent the attainment of a wider perspective about the nature of reality and healing.

II. Reality: Absolute and Relative Truth: Not mutually exclusive:

The fictional Kobiashi Maru scenario exemplifies how this writer perceives the concept of an absololute, yet holistic and socially constructed reality. Logically, the notion of a reality that can be simultaneously ‘absolute’ and concurrently ‘relative’ is not contradictory. This is because a certain degree of variation may be permitted within wholeness of absolutism! (E.g. this makes the biblical statement… “God has many faces” comprehensible). This writer asserts that the social construction and existence of numerous realities are components of an Absolute truth. This is what the Kobiashi Maru scenario illustrates so well. We are easily lulled into thinking dualistically.

Interactive Dualism (ID), whose first and primary proponent was Descarte (Reber, 1985), is a theory that acknowledges a division between the body and mind and allows for interaction between the two (as opposed to structural or parallel dualism that acknowledges both concepts but precludes any interaction). However, the concept does not address the notion that humans may be composed of more than just body and mind. This writer asserts that dualism does indeed exist. In fact, it is through dualism that many Health Psychologists can engage and/or facilitate quite effective, albeit reductionistic (or limiting), physical mending techniques. However, the engagement of dualism allows only for the formulation of (relatively) reductionisitic interventions because, as explained above, as a two-pronged reciprocal system it has limited potential. Either the mind alters the body, or the body creates change in the mind. Without the context provided by a constructed reality, the mind-body perspective is not only limited in scope, it has no gauge to determine what is considered ‘healthy’ VS what might be perceived as ‘sick’. Within our current reality, whether socially constructed, absolute, or (paradoxically) both, most conditions fall within the realm of a particular grouping. Thus, most of us agree generally with what might be deemed ‘right’ VS ‘wrong’ or what might be perceived as ‘sick’ VS ‘well’. In our current Zeitgeist of absolute judgment and directed action, a goal is accomplished when a problem at hand (whether it be an ill body or damaged space ship) has been solved in a manner congruent with what we perceive to be productive and/or functional. However, potential dangers exist when engaging even very effective reductionistic body mending techniques. For when the body becomes the major concern of the mind, the capabilities of the mind become limited. For example, metaphorically, had Kirk continued to focus on his dilemma from within the scenario (the equivalent of focusing on the body), not only would he have been destined to fail, he would not have known whether a greater good may have resulted from the destruction of his ship! This concept raises the first of several paradoxes that Health Psychologists should be familiar with.

When a Health Psychologist engages in a reductionistic (that is to say a two dimensional mind and body) physical mending practice – without attempting examine the process holistically (by holistic, this writer means the incorporation of the mind and the body within the larger system of reality within which they operate), the psychologist cannot know whether healing is occurring or not. Neither health nor healing is axiomatic or static. Aronowitz (1998) makes a pointed statement about the social construction of disease. He writes, “Rather than attempting to cleanse contaminating values and beliefs from our attitudes toward disease, we need to make them explicit and decide which ones we prefer…” (Pp 14). Aronowitz doesn’t argue for an absolutist mentality, he merely asserts that because we do construct our reality, we ought to agree on that reality.

III. Health: Operationally Defined

This writer’s analysis of both Christian and “scientific’ definitions of health, as articulated in books by authors like Levine and Halifax, Christian physician, Larry Dossey (1993), physicist, Paul Davies (1983), and Christian apologist, C.S. Lewis (1961), reveals that homeostasis and/or balance is the common denominator between these three disparate but viable socially constructed perspectives of health. At the micro level of atomic particle movement, the natural inclination of any unit of energy is to attain a state of maximum stability. This is defined as homeostasis. At the macro level of conceptual thought, the ‘alignment’ of body, mind and soul within a person can arguably be considered a state of health. Consequently, it can be assumed that a modern definition of health (consistent at both a micro and macro level) relies on a delicate balance between the ‘perfect’ union and ‘absolute’ harmony between the body, mind and soul. Therefore, the patient of a Health Psychologist using a dualistic mind/body approach to mend chronic back pain may actually be in danger! From the perspective of process, directed prayer (as opposed to non-directed prayer) may not contribute to a balance between the body, mind and soul. Dossey (1993) doesn’t discount directed prayer (or the interventions that often go with it: e.g. visualization, relaxation training, therapeutic touch) but relayed that studies up to that point indicated directed prayer was half as effective as non-directed prayer (as a caveat, however, Dossey ((1993)) also wondered whether the outcomes for directed VS non-directed prayer would have been different had more heterogeneous subjects been used). On an outcome level, another problem can emerge when operating dualistically. Maybe protecting electrical circuitry somewhere within the patient’s nervous system can discourage back pain. Let’s assume the Health Psychologist alleviates the back pain using therapeutic touch. This might be okay in isolation, but when viewed systemically, it might be problematic. Because all systems seek out their most stable state (Davies, 1983), by blocking the system’s attempt to self-regulate (by blocking back pain), the Health Psychologist may have blocked the system’s ‘safety valve.’ As a result, force within the system will increase. We know this because we know the system will continue to seek balance. Therefore, if back pain is no longer allowed to serve as a homeostatic conduit, the system might exert its excess physical energy in another, more physically harmful manner. The increase in pressure, in conjunction with the system’s inclination to strive for homeostasis, might then necessitate the formation of a cancerous tumor. Or maybe the patient would begin to experience mental and/or spiritual difficulties. The point for the Health Psychologist to contemplate is that to function dualistically is to act with less perspective, or potentially less efficacy, than a psychologist who treats in a holistic manner. Health, when determined in the absence of perspective, is lacking significantly in reliability and validity.

IV. Holism, Quantum Physics and a Larger Reality: Prove it!

It is the bits and pieces of relative truth, within an as yet fully unknown Absolute, which are the significant contribution Classical physics has provided to the healing process. Classical physics and reductionism, despite their contributions to our knowledge base however, cannot explain occurrences of the spontaneous regression of cancer (SRC). Nor can they answer metaphysical questions outside of the purely physical realm. Classical physics must adhere to the law of energy conservation. However, in the microworld of quantum physics, energy can spontaneously appear and disappear (Davies, 1983). This writer asserts that while the reality we know is indeed absolute, it is composed of much more than what we can currently imagine. A belief in holism - whether arrived at through an examination of physics or through a process of philosophical conjecture, opens a door that offers us additional perspective on a reality within which energy has much more latitude than what is permitted within our traditional (Newtonian) reality. Theories from the world of quantum physics, from the likes of Niels Bohr’s ‘Copenhagen Interpretation’ (which asserts, in essence, that reality occurs upon perception – an argument for social constructionists to hang their hat)… to Hugh Everett’s assertion that all possibilities are real…to John Cramer’s ‘Confirmation Wave’ (Larson, 2003), to John Wheeler’s ‘Retroactive Causation’ (what this writer uses to explain SRC) have all given justifiable reason to pause and wonder about the nature of our existence. An explanation of each is beyond the scope of this paper, however, the notion of ‘Retroactive Causation’ will be revisited - as it is central to the formula for SRC proposed in this paper. If physics doesn’t appeal, however, there are philosophical arguments for a reality that is larger than we currently know. One of the most powerful has been put forth by the Christian apologist, C.S. Lewis. As a young man, Lewis despaired about the fact that the world seemed unfair; that bad things happened to good people etc. This led him to wonder about the existence of God. After much thought he realized that the very act of knowing the difference between what was fair and unfair provided the basis for belief in God (or, if not God, at least Good)! Lewis asked the following question… “Does a fish know it is wet?” Our reply, of course, is “No, it doesn’t.” In truth, a fish, always being wet, and having no capability of knowing what is dry – can’t know it’s wet. The natural state of a fish is to be wet. Therefore, the fish is comfortable with its wetness. The translation for us is this: If human beings were meant to be unhappy, if bad things were meant to happen to good people – if these things were as natural as wetness is to a fish – why would any of us ever question it? Why would these things make us unhappy? If we were truly creatures of this world – we would be unaware – and content with the situation. But we are not content! We recognize what is fair and what is not. In essence – we know we are wet. Therefore, just as a man who falls in a lake knows that his wetness is unnatural, so we know that the bad things in this world are not natural! And if these bad things aren’t natural – then the things that bring us peace and happiness must be natural because they don’t cause mental disharmony (an additional justification for defining health as a particular balance).

V. Prayer and SRC:

A synoptic definition of the purpose of prayer is difficult to delineate due to the tremendous variability in perspectives. Christians generally define prayer as ‘a solemn thanksgiving and appreciation of God’ (Oxford Dictionary, 2005). ‘New Age’ thinkers define prayer as “the formation of possibility” (Dossey, 1993). Assuming that both perspectives possess healing potential and a higher state of consciousness, the next question then emphasizes how to engage in common exercises designed to arrive at this state. Functionally, this may be accomplished by focused thought on the ‘target’ (E.g. a particular person’s disease) that in turn results in a lack of awareness of this reality. The resulting nothingness and connection to the “the eternal now” (Dossey, 1993), is conceptualized, in the mind of this writer, as the formation of a portal between the reality we know, and the larger reality of our existence. In the world of physics, this portal has been called a “spacewarp” (Davies, 1983). This portal or spacewarp, while still subject to some law of probability, encourages and/or enables the appearance of otherwise random particles of energy (Davies, 1983). While in this portal, those praying are freed from the laws of this reality, and like Kirk in the Kobiashi Maru example, can access the scenario from a different, much wider perspective. This allows for the ‘reprogramming’ “our” Newtonian reality. This reprogramming can result in the manipulation of matter to the extent that SRC becomes possible. The ‘Retroactive Causation’ principle of quantum physicist, John Wheeler (Dossey, 1993), is based on a surprisingly similar notion. Wheeler asserted that what an observer will do in the future defines what happens in the past (Davies, 1983). Wheeler’s assertion (made in 1979 using a famous “two hole” experiment that manipulated and measured photons passing through a screen) has been studied extensively. To date, no one has been able to refute the claim. Wheeler’s claim is actually an augment to Bohr’s claim that reality is formed at the time of mental perception.

This writer has attempted to “make sense” of this by thinking of the development of an infant. An infant experiences many things, but until he/she becomes self-aware, the experiences are meaningless. For example, a car hit this writer when he was age three. His leg was run over, and then backed over (in a Washington D.C. alley by a confused old couple driving a white station wagon). However, to the amazement of all but this writer’s mother (a former Christian Scientist and current Pastoral Counselor) his leg never broke. If reality is larger than what is generally accepted, then time and space may become less linear and less local (proximal). This writer is now a martial artist who has spent long hours attempting to manipulate his bodily energy as a means to both defend him and attack others. He is also a deeply devoted Christian. Could it be that while all the ingredients necessary to break his leg were in existence when he was age three, they merely waited to be aligned until this writer could reflect and understand the experience? As one who was raised by a mother who infused him with the idea that he is a perfect creation of a Perfect Being, then, upon this writer’s first conscious reflection about the experience, why would he assume his leg would break? He was (is) a perfect creation. Thus, at age six, the writer may have prevented bodily harm by manipulating the ingredients of energy present on a day that occurred (in Newtonian reality) three years before - simply by engaging his belief system! Prayer, as a healing instrument, may work in a similar manner.

Those who pray, when in the larger reality not bound by Newtonian temporal laws (when in the portal), may be able to re-arrange (re-program) the ingredients (or units) of energy that form a cancer. This can occur at any stage of a cancer…whether it is even known about or whether it is acute. A formula might look like this:

P (prayer) = FC (focused thought) = Pr (portal)/SW (spacewarp) = PER (possibility of energy re-alignment) = SRC. Though this writer suspects that even if the target is homeostatically imbalanced in MBS to a significant degree, SRC can still result. However, different symptoms would emerge quickly. Thus the benefit of knowing the definition of health. For, if SRC occurs in a person homeostatically imbalanced in MBS, the Health Psychologist should then begin to treat the area of greatest need (E.g. spirit/mind).

To date, no common denominator regarding the occurrence of SRC has been found. Virtually all types of remedies, whether based in Western medicine, homeopathic cures, or various forms of prayer have at different times been credited for SRC. However, Dossey (1993) cites a 1966 study (Everson & Cole) that examined 176 cases of SRC. Unfortunately, no common denominator could be found. Thus all the cures were believed to be equally effective…or equally insignificant. Dossey (1993) asserts that the common denominator may lie within a person’s psyche. Though he is hopeful, he is vague.

This writer asserts that there are two areas Health Psychologists may find worthy of considerable study. These include:

1. The development of a consistent manner of attaining the perspective gained by union with a larger reality (it appears enough evidence exists to assert a larger reality exists, however, more work on making the language accessible to the general public may be of benefit). In other words, how can Health Psychologists open the portal consistently? What is the salient variable common to all instances of spontaneous disease regression?

2. Upon identification of this variable and the subsequent establishment of consistent portal entry, what then might be the variables that most accurately comprise balance? Do units of energy – whether they represent matter, thought, or spirituality, have a signature we can cognitively and consciously comprehend - and then use for the purpose of: 1) identification and: 2) purposeful manipulation as a means to facilitate specific instances of healing?

This paper has examined SRC and its relationship to the physical alteration of matter. It is asserted that Newtonian physics and the concurrent use of dualistic mind-body techniques can be useful instruments…within certain parameters. However, their blind use may be dangerous. The parameters and concurrent perspective necessary to establish whether healing is occurring must be ascertained through a holistic examination of reality. Quantum physics along with philosophical and spiritual discourse appear salient investigative and evaluative processes. Readers are encouraged to contemplate this manner of thought and to consider whether the paradigm has practical possibilities within the delivery of ‘Westernized’ mental health care service.

Seth W .Wallace, Ph.D., LPC has a doctorate in clinical psychology and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. He is the Clinical Director for Wellspring Behavioral Health located in Berlin, CT. Please visit online at www.wellspringbehavioralhealth.com

By: Jennine Estes, MA
www.sandiegocounseling.blogspot.com
www.estestherapy.com

Stress and Anxiety can come in many forms and can be difficult to deal with on a daily basis. You might notice it impacting how you work, the way you parent, or even the way you communicate in your relationship.

Imagine a balloon that is not inflated. And think about when the balloon gets inflated with air, it begins to get bigger and bigger. If you don’t let out the air, it will explode. This is exactly how our emotions are! We all have an “emotional balloon” where we store our emotions. Some people know how to release the air to prevent the balloon from overflowing and popping. And other people will continue to put their emotions into this balloon and it will occasionally pop. The popping may look like crying, anger/violence, irritability, headaches, change in sleep, reactivity, anxiety, and much more. Why not start focusing on letting out the air before popping the balloon?

Here are a few tips on decreasing the anxiety:

1. Exercise: This helps release the emotional stress and anxiety while the body is releasing the “happy chemicals” (AKA: Neurotransmitters). This is a healthy and natural way of releasing the air from the balloon in a productive manner.

2. Talk to someone: Talk to someone about your emotional experience. Talk about what you experienced, how you feel, and even what you think. By talking about the stressful situation, you can decrease some of the negative feelings. Talk to a friend, family member, therapist, etc.

3. Journal: Write about your stress, your anger, your sadness, etc. This helps get the thoughts and feelings from staying active in your mind and from igniting. The writing can clear the thoughts, sort out your emotions, and solidify how you will address the issue.

4. Let it out: Let your body experience the emotion by physically letting it out. An example is by crying or yelling into a pillow.

5. Take time out for yourself: Schedule time to relax and do what you want to do. Often we schedule so much that we forget about ourselves. Relax by watching a movie, get involved in a hobby, listen to music, etc. This can rejuvenate the way you feel or get you re-energized. Take a break from the stress.

6. Take deep breathes: Often times, people begin to take shorter and shallower breathes when they are stressed or anxious. The body needs oxygen to function and survive. Slow it down! Slow and deep breathing can help you relax and calm down. Try it the next time you get overwhelmed at work and see what happens!

7. Let go of the outcome: Try to avoid focusing on the outcome. Instead, focus on the moment. Keep your focus on the task at hand, not the outcome.