Author Helen Farmer-Knowles
Octopus Books
£12.99
ISBN 978-1-84181-390-5
Available in April 2010.
This is the latest in the Godsfield Bible Series, and I have to say I hated it on sight. What clever individual decided it would be a good idea to put the title in bright red on a green background? If you’re planning on keeping this book, then do the classroom theng and cover it, or the flickering colours will drive you bonkers.
Having said that, I reckon that this compact but weighty book should not be dismissed as just another herbal – it’s an extremely comprehensive look at how plants can heal, both spiritually and physically.
The healing power of plants is wide-ranging. Herbal remedies are many and varied, but they don’t cover absolutely everything. Add edible healing plants (grapes, blueberries, pumpkin seeds etc), trees and flower remedies, and there you have a very good healing ‘all-rounder’.
The glossary is fairly comprehensive, but the index could be a little confusing. Those looking for a remedy for a painful tooth, for example, will find five separate references, none of them linked, and no, clove oil wasn’t amongst them.
The only other disappointment, for me, is that the eminent Nicholas Culpeper barely gets a mention, and astrology has virtually none at all. Planets are assigned to different trees, but you won’t find them anywhere in the index. They’ve stuffed so much into this book that something had to give, I suppose, though it remains a good ‘pointer-in-the-right-direction’ manual. I’ll certainly be hanging on to my copy, but hand me the backing paper, please.
Saturday, 13 February 2010
Thursday, 11 February 2010
Book Review - The Anatomy of Pilates
Author Paul Massey
ISBN 978-1-905367-13-9
£14.99
Lotus Publishing
www.lotuspublishing.co.uk
Ever wondered, or as an instructor ever wanted to demonstrate, which muscles and joints are involved in the various Pilates movements?
The author, a leading private physiotherapist and Pilates instructor, takes the reader through what’s happening under the skin using plain language and clear coloured illustrations. He also includes checkpoints, faults to look out for, and shows which muscle groups benefit from the different exercise positions. There are only four chapters but there seems to be no skimping on detail. The page edges are coloured for quick reference, too.
Chapter 1: Introduction to the Pilates Method. This covers the principles of the Pilates method, concepts and elements used in the Pilates method, and breathing.
Chapter 2: Posture and Movement Assessment. Here posture and posture types are covered as well as postural assessment, movement assessment, and body alignment during exercise.
Chapter 3: Application of the Pilates Method. This chapter looks at muscle balance and imbalance, motor learning, motor control skills (stabilisation and co-ordination), flexibility, strengthening, and the Pilates programme. It includes several tables, including one showing a selection of exercises based on the level of ability.
Chapter 4 Classical Pilates Exercises – this is by far the longest chapter and covers classical Pilates exercises – forty of them. Each exercise has two pages devoted to it – one of anatomical line drawings showing how it is performed, with a full explanation on the opposite page.
Particularly useful are the quick-reference sections at the back of the book:
Glossary of Terms
Anatomical Directions
Muscle Groups
Main Muscles Involved in Movement
Resources
Index of Pilates Exercises
All in all a comprehensive book. I would say this is a ‘must’ for tutor and serious student alike.
ISBN 978-1-905367-13-9
£14.99
Lotus Publishing
www.lotuspublishing.co.uk
Ever wondered, or as an instructor ever wanted to demonstrate, which muscles and joints are involved in the various Pilates movements?
The author, a leading private physiotherapist and Pilates instructor, takes the reader through what’s happening under the skin using plain language and clear coloured illustrations. He also includes checkpoints, faults to look out for, and shows which muscle groups benefit from the different exercise positions. There are only four chapters but there seems to be no skimping on detail. The page edges are coloured for quick reference, too.
Chapter 1: Introduction to the Pilates Method. This covers the principles of the Pilates method, concepts and elements used in the Pilates method, and breathing.
Chapter 2: Posture and Movement Assessment. Here posture and posture types are covered as well as postural assessment, movement assessment, and body alignment during exercise.
Chapter 3: Application of the Pilates Method. This chapter looks at muscle balance and imbalance, motor learning, motor control skills (stabilisation and co-ordination), flexibility, strengthening, and the Pilates programme. It includes several tables, including one showing a selection of exercises based on the level of ability.
Chapter 4 Classical Pilates Exercises – this is by far the longest chapter and covers classical Pilates exercises – forty of them. Each exercise has two pages devoted to it – one of anatomical line drawings showing how it is performed, with a full explanation on the opposite page.
Particularly useful are the quick-reference sections at the back of the book:
Glossary of Terms
Anatomical Directions
Muscle Groups
Main Muscles Involved in Movement
Resources
Index of Pilates Exercises
All in all a comprehensive book. I would say this is a ‘must’ for tutor and serious student alike.
Book Review - Traditional Herbal Medicines: A Guide to Their Safer Use
Authors Karalliedde and Gawarammana
Hammersmith Press
£19.99
ISBN 978-1-905140-04-6
Most alternative health practitioners, as well as those of us who use herbs on a regular basis know that herbal remedies can have contraindications. Some, for example, shouldn’t be used when pregnant or breastfeeding, or when taking various conventional med’s. Others can trigger an allergic reaction. Often, though, we have to trawl thro’ different books to discover which goes with what, or more importantly – doesn’t. Usually it’s buried at the back, somewhere, or just given a line or two.
This book has it all in one place and it’s so easy to access. Written by experts at the Medical Toxicology Unit (MTU) of Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospital in London - Dr Lakshman Karalliedde spent 10 years there and is now a toxicologist with the Chemical Hazards and Poisons Division of the Health Protection Agency, Debbie Shaw heads the MTU’s Chinese Medicine Advisory Service; and Indika Gawarammana was a former registrar there.
The book covers traditional herbal remedies from around the world including Chinese, Afro-Caribbean, Unani and Ayurvedic traditional medicines. It describes their sources, known effects and side effects, dosages, interactions and – most importantly – precautions.
A ‘must’ for every herbalist’s bookshelf.
Hammersmith Press
£19.99
ISBN 978-1-905140-04-6
Most alternative health practitioners, as well as those of us who use herbs on a regular basis know that herbal remedies can have contraindications. Some, for example, shouldn’t be used when pregnant or breastfeeding, or when taking various conventional med’s. Others can trigger an allergic reaction. Often, though, we have to trawl thro’ different books to discover which goes with what, or more importantly – doesn’t. Usually it’s buried at the back, somewhere, or just given a line or two.
This book has it all in one place and it’s so easy to access. Written by experts at the Medical Toxicology Unit (MTU) of Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospital in London - Dr Lakshman Karalliedde spent 10 years there and is now a toxicologist with the Chemical Hazards and Poisons Division of the Health Protection Agency, Debbie Shaw heads the MTU’s Chinese Medicine Advisory Service; and Indika Gawarammana was a former registrar there.
The book covers traditional herbal remedies from around the world including Chinese, Afro-Caribbean, Unani and Ayurvedic traditional medicines. It describes their sources, known effects and side effects, dosages, interactions and – most importantly – precautions.
A ‘must’ for every herbalist’s bookshelf.
Book Review - The Little Manual of Happiness - 7 Steps to a Joyful Life
O Books Vikas Malkani £6.99 ISBN 978-1-84694-227-3
This book came out with O Books at about the same time as the Little Manual of Success, and both have the free bonus of a one-to-one with the author. Wow! This is a man who manages to be spiritual and successful at the same time. He has observed the traits of happy people and now has summarised these in his book. It is, of course, all down to attitude. If you lose your job do you see it as the equivalent of being dumped on the scrap heap, or of being handed a fantastic opportunity to change career? How do we get out of a negative mindset? Many of us spend our lives in search of happiness, and never find it. Vikas helps us to see that it has been under our noses all along. Small enough to fit in a handbag or roomy pocket, this is great to read on the train – assuming you’re not too embarrassed… I’d recommend it.
This book came out with O Books at about the same time as the Little Manual of Success, and both have the free bonus of a one-to-one with the author. Wow! This is a man who manages to be spiritual and successful at the same time. He has observed the traits of happy people and now has summarised these in his book. It is, of course, all down to attitude. If you lose your job do you see it as the equivalent of being dumped on the scrap heap, or of being handed a fantastic opportunity to change career? How do we get out of a negative mindset? Many of us spend our lives in search of happiness, and never find it. Vikas helps us to see that it has been under our noses all along. Small enough to fit in a handbag or roomy pocket, this is great to read on the train – assuming you’re not too embarrassed… I’d recommend it.
Book Review - Reality Transurfing, A Rustle of Morning Stars
Reality Transurfing. 2. A Rustle of Morning Stars
Vadim Zeland
O Books
ISBN 978-1-84694-131-3
This bizarrely-titled book could, I’m sure, become a phenomenon, in the same way that cosmic ordering did.
It’s all about swinging the balance in your favour – but in a nice way. Finding your own true goals is the key, and chasing someone else’s dreams will get you nowhere.
The trick is to quiet your busy and interfering mind, and listen to your downtrodden soul.
It’s not the lightest of reading, and the fact that it has been translated into English does show a little, but it is written in a friendly narrative style, and the author does put his message across in a way that can be understood.
If your resolution this year is to move towards your life goal – something that will make your soul sing – then this may well be the first step.
Vadim Zeland
O Books
ISBN 978-1-84694-131-3
This bizarrely-titled book could, I’m sure, become a phenomenon, in the same way that cosmic ordering did.
It’s all about swinging the balance in your favour – but in a nice way. Finding your own true goals is the key, and chasing someone else’s dreams will get you nowhere.
The trick is to quiet your busy and interfering mind, and listen to your downtrodden soul.
It’s not the lightest of reading, and the fact that it has been translated into English does show a little, but it is written in a friendly narrative style, and the author does put his message across in a way that can be understood.
If your resolution this year is to move towards your life goal – something that will make your soul sing – then this may well be the first step.
Wednesday, 10 February 2010
Book Review - The Anatomy of Stretching
Book Review - The Anatomy of Stretching
Brad Walker
ISBN 978-1-905367-03-0
£14.99
176 pages
Lotus Books
www.lotusbooks.co.uk
The book has 200 colour illustrations – arranged by body area – to show the muscles being worked in 114 different stretches.
Starting with a section on how to use the book and an intro, following chapters are:
1 physiology and flexibility – this includes the definition of flexibility and stretching, as well as a look at muscle anatomy.
2 benefits of stretching – like improved range of movement, increased power, reduced fatigue and post-exercise soreness.
3 types of stretching – grouped into static and dynamic.
4 rules for safe stretching – seven in all.
5 how to stretch properly.
The next few chapters are devoted to stretches for every part of the body, starting at the top: neck and shoulders, arms and chest, stomach, back and sides, hips and buttocks, quads, hamstrings, adductors, abductors, calves, and finally the shins, ankles and feet.
Each of these chapters has a page per stretch, with a clear linear diagram and a how-to, as well as information on which muscles are being stretched, sports that benefit from that stretch, which sports injuries benefit from it, common problems/supplementary information (i.e. when to avoid, how to get it right), and the complementary stretch to it.
Following that, there’s a glossary of medical terms, an appendix – a summary of stretches for sports and sports injuries, a page of resources and even a post script.
This is certainly a comprehensive book, and one for anyone seriously into sport of any kind. It shows you how to work muscles you probably didn’t even know you had. It would make a good companion to ‘The Anatomy of Sports Injuries’ by the same author.
Brad Walker
ISBN 978-1-905367-03-0
£14.99
176 pages
Lotus Books
www.lotusbooks.co.uk
The book has 200 colour illustrations – arranged by body area – to show the muscles being worked in 114 different stretches.
Starting with a section on how to use the book and an intro, following chapters are:
1 physiology and flexibility – this includes the definition of flexibility and stretching, as well as a look at muscle anatomy.
2 benefits of stretching – like improved range of movement, increased power, reduced fatigue and post-exercise soreness.
3 types of stretching – grouped into static and dynamic.
4 rules for safe stretching – seven in all.
5 how to stretch properly.
The next few chapters are devoted to stretches for every part of the body, starting at the top: neck and shoulders, arms and chest, stomach, back and sides, hips and buttocks, quads, hamstrings, adductors, abductors, calves, and finally the shins, ankles and feet.
Each of these chapters has a page per stretch, with a clear linear diagram and a how-to, as well as information on which muscles are being stretched, sports that benefit from that stretch, which sports injuries benefit from it, common problems/supplementary information (i.e. when to avoid, how to get it right), and the complementary stretch to it.
Following that, there’s a glossary of medical terms, an appendix – a summary of stretches for sports and sports injuries, a page of resources and even a post script.
This is certainly a comprehensive book, and one for anyone seriously into sport of any kind. It shows you how to work muscles you probably didn’t even know you had. It would make a good companion to ‘The Anatomy of Sports Injuries’ by the same author.
Book Review Maya Prophecy
Maya Prophecy
Dr Ronald Bonewitz
Piatkus
ISBN 978-0-7499-2987-9
I don’t think many haven’t heard of this prediction. Even my taxi driver was talking about it. So what exactly is it? We hear ‘end of the world’ stories on a regular basis, and nothing has yet happened – so far. Is this one any different?
Well, this isn’t simply about the 2012 prophecy, this is an in-depth look at practically everything Mayan. Their astronomy, architecture, calendars and teachings are all explored, and the book contains the latest research. Stories of past catastrophes, including great floods, are documented, too.
The author trained as a geologist and has travelled extensively in the Yucatan, exploring unmapped sites and speaking to Maya Indians. Certainly an interesting and very readable book.
Dr Ronald Bonewitz
Piatkus
ISBN 978-0-7499-2987-9
I don’t think many haven’t heard of this prediction. Even my taxi driver was talking about it. So what exactly is it? We hear ‘end of the world’ stories on a regular basis, and nothing has yet happened – so far. Is this one any different?
Well, this isn’t simply about the 2012 prophecy, this is an in-depth look at practically everything Mayan. Their astronomy, architecture, calendars and teachings are all explored, and the book contains the latest research. Stories of past catastrophes, including great floods, are documented, too.
The author trained as a geologist and has travelled extensively in the Yucatan, exploring unmapped sites and speaking to Maya Indians. Certainly an interesting and very readable book.
Book Review - I Will Need to Break Your Other Leg
Author Prasanna Gautam
Hammersmith Press
ISBN 978-1-905140-121-3
I have to say I found this book absolutely riveting. Whilst it could be read as a ‘dip in’ book, I would recommend it be read cover to cover – as I did in a couple of sittings.
While there are many ‘I was a medic’ books, this one stands out because the author was trained in India and first practiced in rural Tibet, giving the best clinical care possible with often inadequate instruments and drugs, as well as socio-political obstacles. In fact, he ended up having flee to England with his family, where he worked hard for the NHS until retiring.
I felt I learned something along the way, as diseases and procedures are explained as the tale is told – but not in such an obtrusive way as to interrupt the flow of the story.
This book is brilliant. I loved it, and would recommend it to anyone with the slightest interest in medicine. Certainly an eye-opener for me.
Hammersmith Press
ISBN 978-1-905140-121-3
I have to say I found this book absolutely riveting. Whilst it could be read as a ‘dip in’ book, I would recommend it be read cover to cover – as I did in a couple of sittings.
While there are many ‘I was a medic’ books, this one stands out because the author was trained in India and first practiced in rural Tibet, giving the best clinical care possible with often inadequate instruments and drugs, as well as socio-political obstacles. In fact, he ended up having flee to England with his family, where he worked hard for the NHS until retiring.
I felt I learned something along the way, as diseases and procedures are explained as the tale is told – but not in such an obtrusive way as to interrupt the flow of the story.
This book is brilliant. I loved it, and would recommend it to anyone with the slightest interest in medicine. Certainly an eye-opener for me.
Book Review - Finding Heaven Here
This is all about perspective. Now, I’m not saying it’s all rose-tinted glasses – that wouldn’t be fair – no, the author is putting across the idea that heaven is actually here on earth, and not a ‘somewhere else’ that we have to aspire to. We just have to find it, and that means going in the right direction as well as knowing what it is when we get there.
Dr Robinson uses stories from different faiths to illustrate what he means, so it’s clearly not just his own ideas, here. So committed is he to this concept that he dropped a successful career to follow this course and tell others.
I feel that those of us who are still looking for their path on this earth could give this book a look. It’s fairly easy reading, and who knows? Maybe you could find the answer.
Dr Robinson uses stories from different faiths to illustrate what he means, so it’s clearly not just his own ideas, here. So committed is he to this concept that he dropped a successful career to follow this course and tell others.
I feel that those of us who are still looking for their path on this earth could give this book a look. It’s fairly easy reading, and who knows? Maybe you could find the answer.
Book Review - Baby Star Signs
Baby Star Signs
Chrissie Blaze
O Books ISBN 978-1-84694-124-5
Wow! Chrissie has come up with yet another brilliant paperback. If you’re the proud parent of a small human, then this is surely a book to consider. All babes are not the same, and a Libra child will be entirely different from an Aries one. Armed with this book, your approach to care can be tailored accordingly – understanding your little one’s nature makes it so much easier to nurture, doesn’t it?
The book details each star sign, giving an overall view of each, as well as a ‘survival guide’ taking you thro’ to toddlerhood, including eating, sleeping, motor skills, language, learning, and socialisation. There is even a lunar calendar covering the years 2000-2020, so you can work out your little ‘un’s Moon sign. Moon and mood go hand in hand so I would say this latter is a very important consideration.
Chrissie also includes references to other points in your child’s birth-chart, and talks about his or her destiny, as well as paying particular attention to Indigo children. All in all, a fantastic book. There aren’t enough astrology books around which are aimed at parents, and I love this one. This would make a lovely gift, too.
Chrissie Blaze
O Books ISBN 978-1-84694-124-5
Wow! Chrissie has come up with yet another brilliant paperback. If you’re the proud parent of a small human, then this is surely a book to consider. All babes are not the same, and a Libra child will be entirely different from an Aries one. Armed with this book, your approach to care can be tailored accordingly – understanding your little one’s nature makes it so much easier to nurture, doesn’t it?
The book details each star sign, giving an overall view of each, as well as a ‘survival guide’ taking you thro’ to toddlerhood, including eating, sleeping, motor skills, language, learning, and socialisation. There is even a lunar calendar covering the years 2000-2020, so you can work out your little ‘un’s Moon sign. Moon and mood go hand in hand so I would say this latter is a very important consideration.
Chrissie also includes references to other points in your child’s birth-chart, and talks about his or her destiny, as well as paying particular attention to Indigo children. All in all, a fantastic book. There aren’t enough astrology books around which are aimed at parents, and I love this one. This would make a lovely gift, too.
Book Review A Question for Jesus
Review A Question for Jesus
This is another offering from Ms Rinar - the last being 'Journey Home', I think. This lady claims to channel Jesus - he is said to occupy her body as she communicates with him.
I'm sorry, but whilst I have absolute faith in the afterlife I find this lady's account very hard to believe.
'Jesus' recounts parts of his life, and answers questions she and some of her group put to him (hence the title). In several instances 'Jesus' either tells or shows her that the bible is incorrect. Now that I can live with - after all it was written a long time after his death, wasn't it?
What takes credibility away for me is that she also claims to channel or communicate with Pegasus, unicorns, Zeus, Apollo and more. None of these can be verified.
To give Ms Rinar her due, she did get herself checked out by a head-doctor, and I honestly believe her intentions are honourable - but I find myself wanting to take this tale with a huge pinch (nay, a whole pillar) of salt.
This is another offering from Ms Rinar - the last being 'Journey Home', I think. This lady claims to channel Jesus - he is said to occupy her body as she communicates with him.
I'm sorry, but whilst I have absolute faith in the afterlife I find this lady's account very hard to believe.
'Jesus' recounts parts of his life, and answers questions she and some of her group put to him (hence the title). In several instances 'Jesus' either tells or shows her that the bible is incorrect. Now that I can live with - after all it was written a long time after his death, wasn't it?
What takes credibility away for me is that she also claims to channel or communicate with Pegasus, unicorns, Zeus, Apollo and more. None of these can be verified.
To give Ms Rinar her due, she did get herself checked out by a head-doctor, and I honestly believe her intentions are honourable - but I find myself wanting to take this tale with a huge pinch (nay, a whole pillar) of salt.
Book Review - The Anatomy of Sports Injuries
The Anatomy of Sports Injuries
by Brad Walker
ISBN 978-1-905367-06-1
£16.99
256 pages
Lotus Books
www.lotusbooks.co.uk
The book has 200 full-colour illustrations showing 119 sports injuries, as well as 150 line drawings of simple measures such as stretching, strengthening and rehabilitation exercises that can be used to aid recovery. However, although the title states that these are sports injuries, many are ailments that anyone could get – for example ingrown toenails, slipped disc, sunburn, broken ribs, and so on. This doesn’t detract from the book in the least, though – in fact it adds to its value, in my opinion. Another must-have.
After the introduction, the chapters are:
1 Explanation of sports injury – including what constitutes a sports injury, what is affected, whether it is acute or chronic, how the injuries are classified, and the distinction between a strain and a sprain.
2 Sports injury prevention – warm up, cool down, the FITT principle, overtraining, fitness and skill development, stretching and flexibility, as well as facilities, rules, and protective devices.
3 Sports injury treatment and rehabilitation – an intro to sports injury management, and regaining the fitness components.
4 Sports injuries of the skin.
5 Sports injuries of the head and neck.
6 Sports injuries of the hands and fingers.
7 Sports injuries of the wrist and forearm.
8 Sports injuries of the elbow.
9 Sports injuries of the shoulder and upper arm.
10 Sports injuries of the back and spine.
11 Sports injuries of the chest and abdomen.
12 Sports injuries of the hips, pelvis and groin.
13 Sports injuries of the hamstrings and quadriceps.
14 Sports injuries of the knee.
15 Sports injuries of the lower leg.
16 Sports injuries of the ankle.
17 Sports injuries of the foot.
Glossary of terms. Five pages of medical terms followed by the anatomical directions and the seven types of synovial joints.
Resources. A full page of further reading.
Index. A comprehensive four pages.
I would recommend this book – it makes a very good companion to ‘The Anatomy of Stretching’ by the same author. You don’t have to be an athlete to benefit from it – just someone with an interest in how the body (particularly the muscular-skeletal system) functions, is injured and can be helped to heal.
by Brad Walker
ISBN 978-1-905367-06-1
£16.99
256 pages
Lotus Books
www.lotusbooks.co.uk
The book has 200 full-colour illustrations showing 119 sports injuries, as well as 150 line drawings of simple measures such as stretching, strengthening and rehabilitation exercises that can be used to aid recovery. However, although the title states that these are sports injuries, many are ailments that anyone could get – for example ingrown toenails, slipped disc, sunburn, broken ribs, and so on. This doesn’t detract from the book in the least, though – in fact it adds to its value, in my opinion. Another must-have.
After the introduction, the chapters are:
1 Explanation of sports injury – including what constitutes a sports injury, what is affected, whether it is acute or chronic, how the injuries are classified, and the distinction between a strain and a sprain.
2 Sports injury prevention – warm up, cool down, the FITT principle, overtraining, fitness and skill development, stretching and flexibility, as well as facilities, rules, and protective devices.
3 Sports injury treatment and rehabilitation – an intro to sports injury management, and regaining the fitness components.
4 Sports injuries of the skin.
5 Sports injuries of the head and neck.
6 Sports injuries of the hands and fingers.
7 Sports injuries of the wrist and forearm.
8 Sports injuries of the elbow.
9 Sports injuries of the shoulder and upper arm.
10 Sports injuries of the back and spine.
11 Sports injuries of the chest and abdomen.
12 Sports injuries of the hips, pelvis and groin.
13 Sports injuries of the hamstrings and quadriceps.
14 Sports injuries of the knee.
15 Sports injuries of the lower leg.
16 Sports injuries of the ankle.
17 Sports injuries of the foot.
Glossary of terms. Five pages of medical terms followed by the anatomical directions and the seven types of synovial joints.
Resources. A full page of further reading.
Index. A comprehensive four pages.
I would recommend this book – it makes a very good companion to ‘The Anatomy of Stretching’ by the same author. You don’t have to be an athlete to benefit from it – just someone with an interest in how the body (particularly the muscular-skeletal system) functions, is injured and can be helped to heal.
There Were Three of us in the Relationship: The Secret Letters of Marie Antoinette Vol 1.
Author Margaret Anne Macleod
Published by Isaac MacDonald
£9.99
ISBN 978-0-95591-0-9
I can’t believe this hasn’t been done before (tell me if it has, please!). This fascinating book contains letters written between Marie Antoinette, her mother Maria Theresa, Empress of Austria, and her mother's ambassador to France, Count Mercy.
These letters, some of which have been translated for the first time, tell the story of Marie Antoinette’s reign and of course her inevitable slide towards her tragic demise.
This isn’t just for history buffs – it reads almost like a novel – and this first volume charts Marie Antoinette’s life from the time she came to France as a 14 year-old in 1770, to her mother’s death in 1780. It is clear to see how events will eventually unfold, leading to her public execution only a decade later, in 1793, but we’ll have to wait for that story – that comes in Volume 2.
Published by Isaac MacDonald
£9.99
ISBN 978-0-95591-0-9
I can’t believe this hasn’t been done before (tell me if it has, please!). This fascinating book contains letters written between Marie Antoinette, her mother Maria Theresa, Empress of Austria, and her mother's ambassador to France, Count Mercy.
These letters, some of which have been translated for the first time, tell the story of Marie Antoinette’s reign and of course her inevitable slide towards her tragic demise.
This isn’t just for history buffs – it reads almost like a novel – and this first volume charts Marie Antoinette’s life from the time she came to France as a 14 year-old in 1770, to her mother’s death in 1780. It is clear to see how events will eventually unfold, leading to her public execution only a decade later, in 1793, but we’ll have to wait for that story – that comes in Volume 2.
Book Review - The Little Manual of Success. 9 Essential Secrets of Self-Made Millionaires.
author Vikas Malkani
O Books £6.99 ISBN 978-1-84694-228-0
This book has an optimistic title. While I’m no pessimist, I am a bit of a sceptic so I expected to be taking this book with a pinch of salt. I have to admit I was impressed.
It’s an easy read, and is honestly all about positive thinking – how we programme ourselves to fail or succeed, including how we use negative past experiences. We all learn from experience, but how do we use what we’ve learned? How do we expand our comfort zone? This isn’t a magical book – there are no spells – but it’s certainly spiritual and I was only halfway through it when I was offered a fantastic opportunity, having been struggling for over a year. Yes, I’d started the ball rolling, but it wasn’t something I’d had the courage to attempt before.
I would recommend this book, if only to change your attitude and get your own ball rolling.
O Books £6.99 ISBN 978-1-84694-228-0
This book has an optimistic title. While I’m no pessimist, I am a bit of a sceptic so I expected to be taking this book with a pinch of salt. I have to admit I was impressed.
It’s an easy read, and is honestly all about positive thinking – how we programme ourselves to fail or succeed, including how we use negative past experiences. We all learn from experience, but how do we use what we’ve learned? How do we expand our comfort zone? This isn’t a magical book – there are no spells – but it’s certainly spiritual and I was only halfway through it when I was offered a fantastic opportunity, having been struggling for over a year. Yes, I’d started the ball rolling, but it wasn’t something I’d had the courage to attempt before.
I would recommend this book, if only to change your attitude and get your own ball rolling.
Book Review The Little Book of Spirit Readings
The Little Book of Spirit Readings
Collette Star
O Books ISBN 978-1-84694-158-0 £9.99
www.collettestar.co.uk
According to the bumph on the back of the book, this was to be un-put-downable. Sceptic that I am (as far as PR is concerned), I started to flip through its pages. The first thing which struck me was that this lady seems to write as she speaks – and she speaks as many mediums do, which is almost like an open tap.
This I can quite understand. Once the spirit messages start to come through, you just have to deliver ‘em. Having said all that, I soon got used to Collette’s style – and I honestly couldn’t put it down. She offers a tantalizing glimpse into the world of a medium. How frustrating that we only get a little peep into these peoples’ lives. It left me wanting more. When’s the next one out?
Collette Star
O Books ISBN 978-1-84694-158-0 £9.99
www.collettestar.co.uk
According to the bumph on the back of the book, this was to be un-put-downable. Sceptic that I am (as far as PR is concerned), I started to flip through its pages. The first thing which struck me was that this lady seems to write as she speaks – and she speaks as many mediums do, which is almost like an open tap.
This I can quite understand. Once the spirit messages start to come through, you just have to deliver ‘em. Having said all that, I soon got used to Collette’s style – and I honestly couldn’t put it down. She offers a tantalizing glimpse into the world of a medium. How frustrating that we only get a little peep into these peoples’ lives. It left me wanting more. When’s the next one out?
Book Review - The Secrets of Spiritual Marketing
The Secrets of Spiritual Marketing
Lawrence Ellyard
O-Books
£9.99
www.o-books.net
ISBN 978-1-84694-224-2
This book has been brought in, unedited, from the US. It hand-holds the reader through the minutiae of marketing a spiritual health business, assuming that the reader is qualified and is ready to leap into the shark-pool that is self-employment.
The author is Founder and CEO of the International Institute for Complementary Therapists, with fifteen years of practitioner experience (and seven books) under his belt. He also has a background of advertising, graphic design and marketing and so when it comes to getting your business out there, he really knows his stuff.
The book is aimed mainly at those therapies requiring the use of a couch and a comfortable room, but a lot of what the Mr. Ellyard advises is perfectly appropriate for astrologers and such. Some of it is also patently obvious, too, like the need for a website, email address and a ‘phone…
Having said that, though, the author himself tells us that the book is designed to be either a ‘read-through’ or a ‘dip in’ so that those who already have some experience can skip the parts that they know about already.
There’s advice on making advertising stand out, targeting client groups, how to ‘sell yourself’ – that bit made me cringe – how to establish your website, organise business cards, and generally increase your profile. There are even handy-dandy blank spaces to write your own stuff (I resisted the urge).
It does have plenty of useful tips in it: for example giving three business cards to clients and asking them to pass a couple on to friends, using coupon lines in ad’s, sending fake cheques, ‘tryvertising’, and even getting into the record books are all ways of increasing business. Of course there are lots of other, more conventional, ways to boost sales and keep clientele – many of which I hadn’t even thought of - and these are set out in detail.
It’s a thoroughly thought-out book, and if you can ignore the slight American bias I would recommend it for new starters – and perhaps those who’s trade has gone somewhat stagnant. The price can be set against tax, I’m sure.
Lawrence Ellyard
O-Books
£9.99
www.o-books.net
ISBN 978-1-84694-224-2
This book has been brought in, unedited, from the US. It hand-holds the reader through the minutiae of marketing a spiritual health business, assuming that the reader is qualified and is ready to leap into the shark-pool that is self-employment.
The author is Founder and CEO of the International Institute for Complementary Therapists, with fifteen years of practitioner experience (and seven books) under his belt. He also has a background of advertising, graphic design and marketing and so when it comes to getting your business out there, he really knows his stuff.
The book is aimed mainly at those therapies requiring the use of a couch and a comfortable room, but a lot of what the Mr. Ellyard advises is perfectly appropriate for astrologers and such. Some of it is also patently obvious, too, like the need for a website, email address and a ‘phone…
Having said that, though, the author himself tells us that the book is designed to be either a ‘read-through’ or a ‘dip in’ so that those who already have some experience can skip the parts that they know about already.
There’s advice on making advertising stand out, targeting client groups, how to ‘sell yourself’ – that bit made me cringe – how to establish your website, organise business cards, and generally increase your profile. There are even handy-dandy blank spaces to write your own stuff (I resisted the urge).
It does have plenty of useful tips in it: for example giving three business cards to clients and asking them to pass a couple on to friends, using coupon lines in ad’s, sending fake cheques, ‘tryvertising’, and even getting into the record books are all ways of increasing business. Of course there are lots of other, more conventional, ways to boost sales and keep clientele – many of which I hadn’t even thought of - and these are set out in detail.
It’s a thoroughly thought-out book, and if you can ignore the slight American bias I would recommend it for new starters – and perhaps those who’s trade has gone somewhat stagnant. The price can be set against tax, I’m sure.
Book Review - Life Without Panic Attacks
Author Nicola Quinn
DragonRising books, ISBN 978-1-873483-95-4
This paperback introduces a concept I’ve never heard of – EmoTrance, which sounds like something you’d come across in a dodgy night club – but more of that in a mo’. Anyone who has suffered this crippling condition will surely welcome advice – and even a cure – from someone who has been there, and got the t-shirt. However, I did spot some typo’s and grammar gaffs, and it comes across as quite American. The large print and shouty bits (cap’s) as well as a slippy cover don’t help, either, but that said, this energy therapy technique involved seems like it could well work. It looks similar to TFT – thought field therapy – where clients are taught to tap acupressure points in order to calm themselves down, and get over mental blocks. It’s eminently readable, and the author attacks the problem on many fronts. I would say that it’s definitely worth a try.
DragonRising books, ISBN 978-1-873483-95-4
This paperback introduces a concept I’ve never heard of – EmoTrance, which sounds like something you’d come across in a dodgy night club – but more of that in a mo’. Anyone who has suffered this crippling condition will surely welcome advice – and even a cure – from someone who has been there, and got the t-shirt. However, I did spot some typo’s and grammar gaffs, and it comes across as quite American. The large print and shouty bits (cap’s) as well as a slippy cover don’t help, either, but that said, this energy therapy technique involved seems like it could well work. It looks similar to TFT – thought field therapy – where clients are taught to tap acupressure points in order to calm themselves down, and get over mental blocks. It’s eminently readable, and the author attacks the problem on many fronts. I would say that it’s definitely worth a try.
Book Review - Healing Your Spine
Author - Stefan Rippel
O Books ISBN 978-1-84694-137-5
Many of us suffer from back pain, and it can be a vicious circle of being out of balance.
Is there help? Well, of course there is. Painkillers, investigations, posture changes, acupuncture, physiotherapy, special chairs and more – but what will work in the long run? Qualified massage therapist and hands-on healer Stefan Rippel goes into meticulous detail, taking the reader through the spine’s growth and anatomy at cellular level, but getting fairly quickly to physical causes, and then how emotions – and the brain itself - play a part.
For example, did you know that as emotions and thoughts pass directly from the brain to the spine – affecting posture as a result?
Different approaches are discussed, including visualisation, exercises, and much more, in this quite readable book.
This, surely is what whole-istic – holistic – healing is all about. Certainly worth a look.
O Books ISBN 978-1-84694-137-5
Many of us suffer from back pain, and it can be a vicious circle of being out of balance.
Is there help? Well, of course there is. Painkillers, investigations, posture changes, acupuncture, physiotherapy, special chairs and more – but what will work in the long run? Qualified massage therapist and hands-on healer Stefan Rippel goes into meticulous detail, taking the reader through the spine’s growth and anatomy at cellular level, but getting fairly quickly to physical causes, and then how emotions – and the brain itself - play a part.
For example, did you know that as emotions and thoughts pass directly from the brain to the spine – affecting posture as a result?
Different approaches are discussed, including visualisation, exercises, and much more, in this quite readable book.
This, surely is what whole-istic – holistic – healing is all about. Certainly worth a look.
Book Review - Feng Shui Life Coach
Simon Brown
144 pages
ISBN 978-1-84181-343-1
£14.99
Octopus Books
www.octopusbooks.co.uk
Another Feng Shui book? Yes, but this one is different, and it does exactly what it says on the tin. It’s a life-coach book in that it helps you identify and then aim towards your life goals, with the help of Feng Shui.
Most people understand the concept of Feng Shui – that they change the layout of their environment and their lives improve automatically. That on its own may seem a little vague and unfocussed, and this new book addresses that.
The author’s suggested approach is first to decide what it is you’d like to change about your life, then work out what internal (personal) changes you’d need to make in order to achieve what you want. Once you’ve defined your goals, find how Feng Shui will help you to get there then implement those environmental changes and see what happens. That’s the basic premise, but as the book reveals, there are many parts to it. Intuition, energy-sensing, working with the Sun and the Moon as well as (of course) the eight directions and the use of colours, shapes, plants, lighting and space all combine to get the final result.
It’s an easy read – and the author recommends reading the book quickly right through without analysing before you start making changes, just to get the hang of the concept.
Chapters – there are only four, but they contain all you need to know to get started: understanding life coaching, understanding energy, Feng Shui life-coaching tools, and finally room make-overs with eight-directional energy.
The glossary is brief, and has only around twenty entries, although the index is four pages long, and quite comprehensive. I liked the idea of ‘automatic leaning’ but was disappointed to discover that it was a typo…
I would certainly recommend this book to anyone interested in self-improvement.
144 pages
ISBN 978-1-84181-343-1
£14.99
Octopus Books
www.octopusbooks.co.uk
Another Feng Shui book? Yes, but this one is different, and it does exactly what it says on the tin. It’s a life-coach book in that it helps you identify and then aim towards your life goals, with the help of Feng Shui.
Most people understand the concept of Feng Shui – that they change the layout of their environment and their lives improve automatically. That on its own may seem a little vague and unfocussed, and this new book addresses that.
The author’s suggested approach is first to decide what it is you’d like to change about your life, then work out what internal (personal) changes you’d need to make in order to achieve what you want. Once you’ve defined your goals, find how Feng Shui will help you to get there then implement those environmental changes and see what happens. That’s the basic premise, but as the book reveals, there are many parts to it. Intuition, energy-sensing, working with the Sun and the Moon as well as (of course) the eight directions and the use of colours, shapes, plants, lighting and space all combine to get the final result.
It’s an easy read – and the author recommends reading the book quickly right through without analysing before you start making changes, just to get the hang of the concept.
Chapters – there are only four, but they contain all you need to know to get started: understanding life coaching, understanding energy, Feng Shui life-coaching tools, and finally room make-overs with eight-directional energy.
The glossary is brief, and has only around twenty entries, although the index is four pages long, and quite comprehensive. I liked the idea of ‘automatic leaning’ but was disappointed to discover that it was a typo…
I would certainly recommend this book to anyone interested in self-improvement.
Review - All Pets Go To Heaven
All Pets Go To Heaven by Sylvia Browne
O Books
£11.99
ISBN 978 – 0 – 7499 – 4007 - 2
This revised book has an endearing cover, and is quite readable. Sylvia writes extensively about the roles of pets in man’s history before going into the main thrust of the book – namely to assure loving pet owners that our little (and not-so-little) loved ones do indeed go to heaven. Accounts from many pet-owners are included here, and show how animals not only pass over to somewhere beautiful, but come back in spirit when we need them. Sometimes animals come to us in real life who have been sent by spirit. A fascinating book, and a comforting read for all those who have lost a dear pet.
O Books
£11.99
ISBN 978 – 0 – 7499 – 4007 - 2
This revised book has an endearing cover, and is quite readable. Sylvia writes extensively about the roles of pets in man’s history before going into the main thrust of the book – namely to assure loving pet owners that our little (and not-so-little) loved ones do indeed go to heaven. Accounts from many pet-owners are included here, and show how animals not only pass over to somewhere beautiful, but come back in spirit when we need them. Sometimes animals come to us in real life who have been sent by spirit. A fascinating book, and a comforting read for all those who have lost a dear pet.
Product review - The Qu Chi Band
Qu Chi Band
Drug-free hayfever relief – and more!
www.airtight-international.co.uk
OK, this sounds like a designer accessory for a baby, but it’s something completely different.
Remember the acupressure wrist band for travel sickness? Well, this is a band for hayfever and more. Designed by a leading acupuncturist, it’s clinically proven to help allergic rhinitis, sinus, skin and eye problems, headaches, tiredness, lack of concentration…and pain in the elbow and shoulder. For those acupressure aficionados/as the point concerned lies on the large intestine meridian and acts to draw energy away from the face.
When I was given the option to try one of these stylish bands, I jumped at the chance. Although I don’t suffer from hayfever myself, two in our household do, so an opportunity to test it out and silence the sneezing seemed to good to miss…
However, so far, it’s just a friend and I who have used it, though. Why?
I nabbed one to wear overnight as I’ve been plagued for years with a painful shoulder, which usually wakes me, and I gave the other to a friend who has M.E. as well as hayfever. The following day I got an excited text from her – she’d not taken her hayfever med’s that day, and had managed to walk thro’ a new-mown meadow without so much as a sneeze. She also added that it helped stop snoring. She didn’t say who the culprit was…
The band stayed put while I slept, and I had a fairly comfortable night, but the point felt slightly tender the next morning - like I’d just had a blood test.
The Qu Chi point became more painful after a couple of wears and by the third night I was unable to wear it. It was too small for either sneezing son or hayfever-ridden hubby so we don’t know if it would have worked on them.
I also felt that the instructions – at least the diagram – could have been clearer, and it isn’t stated how long to wear it for. So far it only comes in two colours – beige and pink – and two sizes (beige is bigger).
I put these concerns to the company, and they told me that the band will stretch and be more comfortable after a few wears. It can be left around something larger to stretch it, too. The manufacturers are planning to release a larger size as well as one for children. It can be worn for as long as required – if this means 24 hours at a stretch then that’s OK. It’s washable, and can be worn when swimming.
What about finding the right point? Easy-peasy, say the makers – simply put the band on as the picture suggests, and if relief is not fairly immediate, then move it slightly until you see a difference.
All in all a brilliant concept, and certainly worth a try for a drug-free solution to hayfever. I don’t intend to part with mine, and will certainly be giving it another go.
Drug-free hayfever relief – and more!
www.airtight-international.co.uk
OK, this sounds like a designer accessory for a baby, but it’s something completely different.
Remember the acupressure wrist band for travel sickness? Well, this is a band for hayfever and more. Designed by a leading acupuncturist, it’s clinically proven to help allergic rhinitis, sinus, skin and eye problems, headaches, tiredness, lack of concentration…and pain in the elbow and shoulder. For those acupressure aficionados/as the point concerned lies on the large intestine meridian and acts to draw energy away from the face.
When I was given the option to try one of these stylish bands, I jumped at the chance. Although I don’t suffer from hayfever myself, two in our household do, so an opportunity to test it out and silence the sneezing seemed to good to miss…
However, so far, it’s just a friend and I who have used it, though. Why?
I nabbed one to wear overnight as I’ve been plagued for years with a painful shoulder, which usually wakes me, and I gave the other to a friend who has M.E. as well as hayfever. The following day I got an excited text from her – she’d not taken her hayfever med’s that day, and had managed to walk thro’ a new-mown meadow without so much as a sneeze. She also added that it helped stop snoring. She didn’t say who the culprit was…
The band stayed put while I slept, and I had a fairly comfortable night, but the point felt slightly tender the next morning - like I’d just had a blood test.
The Qu Chi point became more painful after a couple of wears and by the third night I was unable to wear it. It was too small for either sneezing son or hayfever-ridden hubby so we don’t know if it would have worked on them.
I also felt that the instructions – at least the diagram – could have been clearer, and it isn’t stated how long to wear it for. So far it only comes in two colours – beige and pink – and two sizes (beige is bigger).
I put these concerns to the company, and they told me that the band will stretch and be more comfortable after a few wears. It can be left around something larger to stretch it, too. The manufacturers are planning to release a larger size as well as one for children. It can be worn for as long as required – if this means 24 hours at a stretch then that’s OK. It’s washable, and can be worn when swimming.
What about finding the right point? Easy-peasy, say the makers – simply put the band on as the picture suggests, and if relief is not fairly immediate, then move it slightly until you see a difference.
All in all a brilliant concept, and certainly worth a try for a drug-free solution to hayfever. I don’t intend to part with mine, and will certainly be giving it another go.
Tuesday, 9 February 2010
OK - as no-one's watching, I can say what I like.
Seriously, though... reviews will be going on my blog from now on, plus some news (snoresville).
Most recent is that we're planning next year's hols already - not the ol' run-of-the-mill flight-plus-two-weeks, but we're going a bit more green and taking the train thro' Europe.
Eek!
Not sure when... but any tips from travelco's will be most welcome.
We've just had a magpie in the garden, shouting at a squirrel, who was, in turn, being stalked by an ambitious tabby.
I leapt to the door (well, not quite) and yelled at all three of them.
Our neighbours must think I'm mental.
I'm getting good at opening the door with a flourish (most people use the handle...).
More soon!
Seriously, though... reviews will be going on my blog from now on, plus some news (snoresville).
Most recent is that we're planning next year's hols already - not the ol' run-of-the-mill flight-plus-two-weeks, but we're going a bit more green and taking the train thro' Europe.
Eek!
Not sure when... but any tips from travelco's will be most welcome.
We've just had a magpie in the garden, shouting at a squirrel, who was, in turn, being stalked by an ambitious tabby.
I leapt to the door (well, not quite) and yelled at all three of them.
Our neighbours must think I'm mental.
I'm getting good at opening the door with a flourish (most people use the handle...).
More soon!
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