Comforting & Creative
Solutions
December
30, 2006
"Self-compassion is not about losing your
inner critic; it's about transforming it from a bitter,
self-destructive
voice to one tempered with humor and forgiveness." — Michael
Burgos
Patricia Alexander and Michael Burgos have created a beautifully designed book
with artwork by Dean Andrews. The backgrounds on each page seem to embrace
the quotes, wisdom and personal experiences of the authors.
"The siren's call to 'toxic' short-lived comfort is loud and alluring and can
draw out our own good instincts for comfort that is real and meaningful." The
Book of Comforts explores: comfort vs. indulgence, obsession vs. hobby
and
toxic vs. healing. How do you comfort yourself and not feel guilty about spending
time on yourself? How can you validate yourself and validate others? By looking
at stressful issues with a renewed sense of vision this book teaches you to expand
your interests or even to reconsider the miracle of sleep
.
This book takes you a little beyond chocolate and bubble baths and explores
the benefits of essential oils, like vanilla and the benefits of exercise,
like yoga.
The book is divided up into three main sections:
Spirit . . . Body . . . Soul
Some of the chapters include:
Cultivate a Hobby
Unwind in Water
Act with Self-Compassion
Renew Your Connection with the Earth
The authors have survived numerous life challenges and have come face to face
with their own needs for creative comfort. This universal need to soothe the
soul is expressed beautifully in quotes, tips, anecdotes and even a cute observation
from Ender the Cat. "Even humans have recognized the value of the Cat
Nap, which can be done
on almost any corner of a soft bed."
— Ender
The Cat
This book would be perfect for doctor's offices, massage therapy waiting rooms,
gifts and as an introduction to the healing benefits of healthy comfort. The
ribbon to keep your place is a thoughtful addition and the padded book cover
makes this a comfy read. I liked the advice like: "Get Thee to a Jacuzzi" or "Take
Yourself to the Movies."
While this book may inspire you to add more comfort to your own life, I found
that this book could also be helpful in giving you ideas for how to provide
comfort to friends and family. The section on massage may inspire you to buy
someone a gift certificate for massage or you may find yourself creating CDs
of soothing music or inviting a friend to go for a walk out in nature.
Patricia Alexander and Michael Burgos have written a book with ideas you can
incorporate into your daily routines. Soon, you will find you are happier,
more satisfied with life and enjoying each moment with a higher level of contentment.
