Triumph Over Trauma

With the start of a brand new year, I want to wish the readers of this blog a very 
Happy 2024 with lots of reading moments!

In Belgium, the year starts with ideal reading weather: raining, grey and cold.
So, I can't do lots of things in the garden neither visiting royal destinations.

Instead I'm in the sofa, reading and reviewing some interesting books such as
Triumph Over Trauma.

The book is all about use of psychedelics for treating psychological traumas.
First the author Randall S. Hansen gave an overview about the history of these
treatements and then there were amazing personal stories.

Although I don't know much about this subject, I liked the book as well as the
stories and I can recommend Triumph Over Trauma to people who are interested
in the subject. 

Withouth any doubt, I give a 5 star rating!

Booktasters

As always, I want to thank Booktasters as well as the author Randall S. Hansen
for providing me a free copy in return of my honest review, which I did.

Some Musings

So this was the first post of 2024, I hope to read and review more this year than
last year. 

Wish you a very happy Tuesday and enjoy reading! 

Source picture: Bookcover

Bookreview: Win Your Life with a Permanent Fix

A splendid and clear book! 

The Book

177 pages, ebook

Published April 4, 2018

Summary

Born in a small village in India, the author was expected to work
and live in that town. However, interest in self-development supported
by formal education in India, Australia, and Canada, led him to Canada
and also helped him live a successful life in North America. However,
there was a feeling of a missing link – a feeling that there was something
missing in life. Having been born into a mystical tradition helped him

understand mysticism from the right sources. Over a two decade

long practice in Dhyan and experimenting with more than a
hundred different types of Eastern meditations helped him improve his
mental balance. But that still did not help to resolve what this missing
link was and how to complete this link.

Research in philosophy, clinical psychology with a primary emphasis

on logotherapy, helped him resolve the missing link. The author found
that it does not matter what your belief regarding God or your religious
affiliation is, what matters is whether your practices help you to control
your seeds of aggression, addiction, and depression. It does not matter
what philosophy you follow, what matters is whether that philosophy is
leading you to a meaningful life. This book is intended to help you to

win your life through your unique contributions and make permanent

changes, one person – you – at a time.

My Review

Besides (royal) history I'm always very interested in psychology, 
especially Industrial and Organizational psychology. 

Although this book is more about individual changes and chances.
It is a good reminder for us all. Even, I noted some interesting
advices.

For me the book was very clear, not floaty and the author knew his
stuff! He gave lots of interesting examples. 

I certainly would recommend this splendid "Win Your Life with a Permanent Fix"
to all who are looking for a change in their lives. 

Therefore I give without no doubt a 5 star rating for this very open minded book. 

The author

Chetan Prabhu Desai speaks on topics such as ‘How to find meaning at any
workplace’, and ‘How to make your business environment where every employee
wins’. He worked in managerial positions in aerospace and electronics
organizations, including in Berkshire Hathaway Group. His education includes
an MBA from the Schulich School of Business of York University in Canada,
and Master of Engineering in Systems engineering at RMIT in Australia.

As an expert, He appeared on 100+ channels including Fox News,
iHeart, BizTalkRadio, Salem Media, CKLW.

Booktasters

I really want to thank Booktasters and the author for giving me this splendid
reading and review chance!! 

Author in the picture: Dawne Archer

Recently I read and reviewed Trekker Girl - Morocco Bound (you can read my
review on this link). I was pleasantly surprised by the book and by the motives
of the author - Dawne Archer - as well. That's why I asked her if she wanted to
participate in an author in the picture blogpost. Luckily she said yes 😊.

So here are the questions and answers of Dawne Archer in her Author in the
picture blog post on this blog. 

 WHO IS DAWNE ARCHER?

A very good question and one I sometimes ponder. The short
answer is that I am a 61-year-old woman, reasonably fit and
healthy despite issues with thrombosis, ready to get back to
travelling the world.

 

WHAT IS THROMBOSIS?

Trombosis is the formation of blood clots. They can occur in
the arteries,often manifesting as strokes or heart attacks, or in
the veins. I havehad two veinous blood clots, one in my leg
(Deep Vein Thrombosis) and one in my lung
(Pulmonary Embolism). I am very lucky to be alive, whereas
my Dad died of a PE.

There can be multiple causes. In my case, I inherited a gene
mutation called Factor 5 Leiden, which isn't that unusual and often
causes no problems. Unfortunately, I have inherited this from both
parents, making my risk factor in certain situations up to 88 times
higher. That is an astonishing statistic and I could fill many pages
with the information I have about thrombosis,
but the most accurate and helpful source of facts, figures and
support is Thrombosis UK (www.thrombosisuk.org).

 

CAN YOU TELL ME MORE ABOUT YOUR
FUNDRAISING FOR THROMBOSIS UK?

My first fundraiser was the Sahara Desert Trek which is the
subject of my book, 'Trekker Girl Morocco Bound'. I joined a
group of trekkers, paying all the expenses myself so that every
penny I raised went to Thrombosis UK. Was it a step too far
for a moderately healthy woman in her early 50s? I will let you
answer that one. It was certainly a tougher challenge than I had expected.

My fundraising is ongoing, with an overnight walk through the
mountains of Mallorca and I even competed in a ballroom dance
competition. The dancing was a long way out of my comfort zone
as I prefer walking boots to high heels, but it was a successful
fundraising event. I am currently trying to plan a challenge that
will attract both attention and donations because I aim to raise
awareness of thrombosis, something which does save lives,
as well as much needed funds.

 

YOU TRIED TO OVERCOME YOUR HEALTH
PROBLEMS BY TRAVELLING. WHY TRAVELLING?

My health issues are with me for life. I have tried to live to the full,
despite having to take care in certain situations. For example,
flying is a risk as is being immobile, especially after an operation.
In 90 minutes we all lose 50% of the blood flow in our legs.
I am a restless person and travelling keeps me 'on the go'.
Curiosity drives me forward, itching to learn more about
other countries and cultures. I may have to change my
mode of transport and adapt my methods but nothing, including
Covid, will keep me down.

 

HOW DID YOU FIND YOUR NAME 'TREKKER GIRL'?

I couldn't believe this name was not already in use! I used an
organisation called 'Just Giving' to collect the funds for my trek
and needed a catchy name. I love it.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE/COUNTRY EVER?

That is a difficult question to answer, having lived in the UK,
North America and Spain at various times. It is also hard to
pick on only one place I have visited, as I have had such
amazing experiences in many locations. I will say that Cuba
is full of special people, Chile has all kinds of dramatic natural
landscapes to explore and Alaska is just awe inspiring…I
could go on. A part of my heart belongs to a small rock in
the middle of the Irish Sea called the Isle of Man.

DO YOU HAVE OTHER INTERESTS OR HOBBIES?

Apart from writing and travelling? I love to entertain friends and
family and, of course, I walk most days, preferably somewhere
with a view of the sea. I enjoyed my involvement with a local
radio station, conducting interviews which gave me the opportunity
to indulge my curiosity about other people and their motivations.
You can be sure that I am rarely stuck for something to say.

Covid has made us all less mobile and I have indulged in lots
of reading (especially memoirs, thanks to the marvellous
Facebook group 'We Love Memoirs'). Tapestry and jigsaws kept
me occupied during the lockdowns, and I am always keen to try
something new, but it is safe to say that quilting proved disastrous.

Dawne Archer at the Glastonbury Music Festival

 

WHAT DOES YOUR FAMILY THINK ABOUT YOUR PLANS?

Covid has made me realise that there is nothing more important
to me than family. Seeing them whenever possible has been,
and still is, a priority. However, they know I will never stop
travelling and that has always been the way. They love to hear
'tall stories' of my adventures.

 

DO YOU LIKE TO WRITE/WORK IN THE EARLY
HOURS OR LATE?

I am very much a night owl. Peace and quiet in the later hours
of the day suit me best.

 

DO YOU HAVE PLANS TO WRITE OTHER BOOKS?

Digging through some old storage boxes, I found a treasure trove
of diaries written on my trips. Some short travel memoirs sound
like a fun way to get some more of my writing out into the world.
I have also contributed to a couple of published compilations
of travel stories.

Boot problems while travelling

WHAT DO YOU WISH FOR YOU AND THE WORLD?

That is a very good question and one that needs a lot of thought.
For me, I wish continued good health with no further thrombosis
episodes. For my family, good health too.
For the world? A way through the current Covid crisis.

 

You can find me here:

www.facebook.com/trekkergirl2012/

www.amazon.com/author/dawnearcher

twitter handle: @DawneArcher19

Email: trekkergirl@outlook.com

Trekker Girl Morocco Bound is available from Amazon at

https://mybook.to/TrekkerGirl

A big Thank you

I want to say a big thank you to Dawne Archer for participating in her own

Author in the picture blogpost on this blog. 

It's always nice to talk to very inspiring authors such as Dawne Archer. 

Bookreview: Health-Wealth

 Interesting read!

Summary

In Health-Wealth for You, Dr. Josh Luke teaches individuals and families a 
series of measurable money saving tactics that will reduce spending on 
healthcare. 

My Review

It was an interesting read about the American Health Care System. 

The book had suggestions about making the system better.

The book was written very well, well thought and structured, which
I like a lot. For me personally it was a bit less interesting because
it was written for the USA.

I would certainly recommend this book to my American friends who
are interested in the American Health Care System. It is also
interesting for businesses who work regularly with people from the
USA.

Anyway, I would like to give a 5* rating for this splendid book. 

The Author

Health-Wealth is written by two time Amazon #1 best-selling author, futurist
and faculty member at the University of Southern California, Dr. Josh Luke. 

Booktasters

I received a free copy by Booktasters and the author. Thank you so much for
this interesting read! 

Bookreview: Nadeem's Journey

Heart wrenching story of a loving mother loosing
her son on cancer

What a beautiful, sad and strong story! 

Summary

Nadeem's Journey by Sherine Anniruth is the soulful and bittersweet story of a
mother who loses her son. Nadeem was just 25 years old when he died from
cancer, but his mother's determination for his memory to live forever is
beautiful and raw. 

This story captures Nadeem's spirit. This book will captivate you and wrench
your heart. 

My Review

What a beautiful sad and strong story! It was written very clear, and
of course emotional. I had to cry and I admire the strength of Nadeem, his
mother and his family. 

I would recommend this book to all the people who like to read wonderful,
strong memoirs. What is more powerful than a mother talking about her 
son? 

Of course, I give a 5 star rating for this splendid book! 

The author

Sherine is living in Perth, Western Australia and emigrated from South Africa. 
She's a dedicated mum of 3 and works as a registered nurse. 

Booktasters

I received a free copy via Booktasters and the author. Thank you very much for
this excellent reading chance! 

Bookreview: High and Low

How I hiked Away From Depression
Across Scotland 

"What a fantastic read." 

Summary

Keith Foskett refused to let his dark mood define his limitations. Unknowingly
suffering with depression, he took to hiking the wilds of Scotland to face his
inner demons. From the craggy Highlands of the Cape Wrath Trail and the
West Highland Way, to the canals criss-crossing the low country, 600 miles
of unforgiving hiking terrain called his name. 

Keith repositioned his compass to what really matters in life. Pushing his
mind and body past breaking point, his journey could set a brave new course
coping with depression.

Battling ferocious weather, the ubiquitous Scottish midge, strange-sounding
local delicacies and substandard TV sets, this is one man's battle to conquer the
wilds of Scotland and his own psychological demons. 

My Review

First of all: What a fantastic read.  The author tells in clear, short chapters

about his walks in Scotland. He also is very honest about his struggles in
his mind and in his body as well!

It read easily and it was written very well. I also loved the historical
knowledge of the author.

I recommend this book to all people who want to throw their struggle
away by walking. Therefore, I would like to give a 5 * rating for this
lovely book! 

The author

Keith Foskett has hiked thousands of miles and holds a deep respect for
outdoor spaces of this world. Great Outdoors magazine shortlisted his book 
for several awards, and his blog won the Go Outdoors best Blog award. 

We love memoirs

I received a free copy from the We love memoirs group - the most
friendliest group on Facebook. 

Picture: Book Cover

Bookreview: Stop Depriving the World of you

 A guide for getting unstuck

Summary

Do you believe everyone is capable of getting "Unstuck"? Do you 
recognize your own uniqueness? Do you wonder if you have abilities
which may lie deep within? If you do not, once you read this stimulating
book, you'll be convinced otherwise.

Stop Depriving the World of You simiply and creatively provides
exercises for you to begin the journey of self-discovery. Soon you will
come in contact with your own unique talents and gifts. 

In addition the D.R.E.A.M technique will help you to delve deeper
into your inner being and explore uncharted territories. By using the
tools offered in this book, you will be pleasantly surprised by what
you might uncover.

My Review

Psychology and especially Industrial and Organization Psychology 
interest me very much, that's why I wanted to read Stop Depriving
the World of You written by a real coach:  Darlene Corbett. 

While reading this book, I felt that the author wasn't just telling a story,
it was written very clear with lots of experience and knowledge. She

explains this with the unstuck theory. 

I liked the clear chapters and the interesting examples, just as the 
quotes she used. 

I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to move forward
in his or her life. It is with lots of pleasure, I give Stop Depriving
the World of You a 5 star rating! 

The author

Darlene Corbett is a Professional Speaker, Author and Licensed
Therapist/Coach. Her expertise is helping people get "Unstuck". 
Darlene is a high-content speaker with an engaging style. Audiences
leave with much enthusiasm and the tools to begin the process of
getting unstuck. She believes it is a privilege to be able to serve 
people one-on-one as well as to a larger audience.

Darlene has been in the people business for over thirty years and has 
been a featured expert. Because of her Wealth of experience which
she feels honored to have acquired, Darlene decided to begin writing
and many of her blogs can be found on DarleneCorbett.com, 
LindedIn and Thrive Global. 

BookTasters

I received a free copy via BookTasters and the author. Thank you very 
much for giving me this splendid reading chance! I would love to read
more books from this excellent author! 

Source picture: Book Cover 

Bookreview: From Wheels To Wellness

 

From Wheels To Wellness

Tips and Tricks for a healthy Van Lifestyle 

Written by Kristine Hudson 

"Useful information!"

Summary

First, you commit to van life.

Then, you pick out your vehicle and start the process of creating
your ultimate home on wheels. You put the key in the ignition, wave good-bye
to stationary life, and head on down the road.

You may not be sure what to pack for your new lifestyle. After all, who knows
 what lies ahead in destinations unknown?

Author Kristine Hudson is a voice of reason from the unknown.
As a "been there, done that" van dweller, she has some notes to share
with those who are drawn to the nomadic lifestyle. 

Before you hit the road, think about the following:

✓ Have you considered what you'll do if you get sick on the road?

✓ Do you know what to pack in case of emergencies?

✓ What thought have you given towards meals?

✓ Are you ready to face the barrage of new insects, pollens, wildlife,
 and scenarios that await you?

If you're worried there's something you haven't thought of when preparing for
life on the road... If you're not sure what to do about doctor's appointments,
dental care, and prescriptions while you're away from home... 

If you think you'll just "take care of it" whenever an emergency pops up...

This book will help you gain a firm grasp of all the good intentions
that are left behind when we head out for a rugged and glorious van lifestyle. 
From figuring out how to receive basic preventive care on the road, to food prep
and storage, and everything in between, Kristine Hudson provides a comprehensive
look at all of the things about health and wellness that are quickly forgotten in the
quest for true freedom. Whether you're just starting to question how you'll maintain
your physique on the road, or starting to fret about maintaining a chronic condition
while you're on the roam, this book provides hints and tips hand-selected from the
author and legions of other van lifers.

Filled with true stories and supportive tricks from wanderers with decades of
combined experience, this book won't replace your first-aid kit...but it will help you
remember to pack one in the first place.

My Review

I must admit, I love to read travel stories and memoirs as well. 
Traveling with a Van sounds so exiting. However Kristine Hudson's
books show that one long Van travel took lots of preparation work!

She gave many helpful hints for the life on board of a Van. However
it is USA oriented, so for me personally less interesting. But it is 
still very nice to read!

This is a must read for permanent USA travelers and people who 
want to live on the road. For the helpful guide and her writing style,
I would like to give a 4 star rating on 5!

The author

For Kristine Hudson and her husband Brad, the adventure never ends!
If you enjoyed reading Ms. Hudson's insights on preparing for a life
on the road in "How to Live the Dream: Things Every Van Lifer Needs
to Know," you'll love catching up with her on her new Facebook page.

For ladies who are curious about the daily ins and outs of being a Boss
Lady after reading "How to Choose the Ultimate Side-Hustle: Making
Money and Being Your Own Boss," Ms. Hudson shares her regular
experiences with keeping herself organized while maintaining her
writing and editing career.

It may seem that waking up every day in a new place and having a
successful,  satisfying career may be mutually exclusive. "Like"
and "Follow"

BookSirens

I received an advance copy for free by BookSirens and I'm leaving
this review voluntarily. Thank you very much for giving me this chance!

Picture: Book Cover 

Bookreview: Plant-Based Healthy Eating

Mouth-watering Vegan Meal Plans on a Budget less
than 25 Minutes per Meal. 

Written by Jasmin Walters (2020)

"Excellent guide for a vegan lifestyle"

Summary

It’s not easy, going for a meal plan that you will strictly have to follow
after all everything you do in life only truly matters when you overtake
the setbacks that come hanging to its edges, where we will help you
become more motivated, better equipped to handle every challenge
that comes your way with confidence and of course the bottom line is
that you’ll end up with mind-blowing and mouth-watering recipes to try
out thorough the course of the meals you have daily, not just that thought.
You’ll finally start to see your weight loss dreams come to life without any
harm to your body, but rattler naturally.

My Review

In Europe, Vegan or Vegan meals are less familiar than in the USA.
However a change is coming. 

People are more aware of their health. They know that food is important
for being healthy. 

Therefore it is very interesting to read books as these. Plant-Based Healthy
Eating has brought what I expected of the book and it gives me new inspiration
for healthy vegan meals. 

The book was written very good with clear chapters, paragraphs and even
the letter type was suitable. There also were lovely pictures and the dishes all
looked amazing!

I would certainly recommend this book because it's very interesting for 
food lovers and for people who wanted to know more about vegan meals. 

I give this book a 5 star rating! 

The Author

Jasmin Walters, an inspiring lady with a PhD in Medical Nutrition & Therapy,
based in the USA. Jasmin leads in her field with nutritional health, dietary advice,
natural remedies, healing techniques and alternative medicines. Jasmin's ability
to advocate in natural health, therapies, remedies, dietary balances and healing
has been producing for more than two decades. Jasmin has spent more than
twenty years researching natural approaches to health, healthy living and healing.
Jasmin shares her knowledge, experiences & research to the rest of the world by
guiding people how to live healthier lifestyles. Jasmin in her journeys has also
been an enthusiast of delicious food with homemade recipes. Some of Jasmin's
favorite styles are Plant Based Vegan, Mediterranean and many more. Jasmin's
love for cooking healthy also stemmed from her childhood, her mom whom
she is so thankful to. Jasmin's inspiration for writing came from her experiences
from childhood and developed a keen interest from her father's study of
Nutrition in Humans. 

BookSirens

I received an advance review copy for free, by BookSirens, 

and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. So thank you very much.

Source picture: Book cover

Bookreview: A Practical Home Guide For Nutritional Healing

A Practical Homeguide For Nutritional Healing 

"A positive signal to natural foods to improve or maintain your health"

written by Jasmin Walters

When someone is feeling sick, the conventional inclination is to turn to medication,
and, certainly, this often works. Nutritional healing, however, is the science of turning
to foods, natural supplements, and herbs to treat or even cure health problems.
Want to find out about how you can use Nutritional Healing
and alternative medicines in your everyday life?

This book shows you EXACTLY what you need to know and 

guide you every step of the way!

Do you want to know how and why natural nutritional healing works?

Then you NEED this book. Buy now and start reading today!

Want to know more about the importance of hydration?

Everything you NEED to know is included in these pages!

Would you like more assistance in Weight Loss and Eating Well?

Then you NEED this book. Buy now and start reading today!

Would you like to know how to Slow Down the Aging Process?

Then you NEED this book. Buy now and start reading today!

Do you want to learn how to control your blood sugar levels?

Everything you NEED to know is included in these pages!

Do you want to learn the best Recipes for a natural healthy lifestyle?  

Then you NEED this book. Buy now and start reading today!

My Review

Health is the most important gift that human people have. So, it is
always nice to read more how to improve or maintain a good health.

One of the key roles is kept for food and that's why I chose to read:

"A Practical Home Guide For Nutritional Healing".

"A Practical Home Guide For Nutritional Healing " is written very clear
in short, practical chapters. It also read easily. 

The book gives an idea how to take care of your health, though it was a
bit too short. I definitely want to read more!!!! I will recommend this
to friends, colleagues and others. So, I give this book a 4 star rating on
5.

The Author

Jasmin Walters, an inspiring lady with a PhD in Medical Nutrition & Therapy,
based in the USA. Jasmin leads in her field with nutritional health,
dietary advice, natural remedies, healing techniques and alternative medicines.
Jasmin's ability to advocate in natural health, therapies, remedies, dietary
balances and healing has been producing for more than two decades.
Jasmin has spent more than twenty years researching natural approaches
to health, healthy living and healing. Jasmin shares her knowledge,
experiences & research to the rest of the world by guiding people how to live
healthier lifestyles.

Jasmin in her journeys has also been an enthusiast of delicious
food with home made receipes. Some of Jasmin's favourite styles are
Plant Based Vegan, Mediterranean, Paleo and many more.
Jasmin's love for cooking healthy also stemmed from her childhood,
her mom whom she is so thankful to.

Jasmin's inspiration for writing came from her experiences from
childhood and developed a keen interest from her father's study
of Nutrition in Humans.

BookSirens

I received an advance review copy for free, by BookSirens, and
I'm leaving this review voluntarily. So thank you very much. 

Source picture: book covers

Untamed by Glennon Doyle

 Untamed

by 

Glennon Doyle (Goodreads Author),

 

Glennon Doyle Melton (Goodreads Author)

 4.18  ·   Rating details ·  89,999 ratings  ·  9,937 reviews

There is a voice of longing inside every woman. We strive so mightily to be good: good mothers, daughters, partners, employees, citizens, and friends. We believe all this striving will make us feel alive. Instead, it leaves us feeling weary, stuck, overwhelmed, and underwhelmed. We look at our lives, relationships, and world, and wonder: Wasn’t it all supposed to be more beautiful than this?

Four years ago, Glennon Doyle, author, activist and humanitarian, wife and mother of three—was speaking at a conference when a woman entered the room. Glennon looked at her and fell instantly in love. Three words flooded her mind: There She Is. At first, Glennon assumed these words came to her from on high. Soon she realized that they came to her from within.

Glennon was finally hearing her own voice—the voice that had been silenced by decades of cultural conditioning, numbing addictions, and institutional allegiances. She vowed to never again abandon herself. She decided to build a life of her own—one based on her individual desire, intuition, and imagination. She would reclaim her true, untamed self. 

Due to publicity on Facebook and other social media this book was recommended as a must-read. Even Adele was a big fan of it. So, I decided to buy the book. I read it in Dutch with the title
'Ongetemd leven'. 

It clearly is a beautiful memoir from the author herself and she wrote very honestly about her life. I liked that very much. I also admired the positive way she put things down on paper. 

However I started several times to try to read the book but too soon I stopped reading. Was it annoying? No, it wasn't just my cup of tea. 

I expected more of the book, but for the honest writing of the author, I would give her three stars on five. 

I read Untamed as an ebook, bought via bol.com. 

Source pictures: book cover + titelpagina 
I really liked both covers