Podcast 226: Sound Healing Technologies with Mingtong Gu

Mingtong Gu

I recently had the wonderful opportunity to be introduced to Mingtong Gu, a Qigong master from the San Fransisco Bay area, who has has his training directly from the Grandmasters in China.  Mingtong is a very humble man, my intuition told me as we delved deeper into the interview, that he is extremely balanced, and has a very deep spiritual connection.  It is articulated through his voice and in the  deliberateness of the language he uses in explaining the concepts of Qigong.

Some of you might be aware of what Qigong is, but when you hear the amazing stories that Mingtong tells me about healing, as well as watch the video testimonials at his website,  it is a real testament to the practice of Qigong, this ancient form of connecting to the energies of the Universe.

Mingtong explains that as we go through the movements of Qigong and align our energy with that of the Universal source, we will experience personal healing at all levels.  Qigong can be used as a practice to balance our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual energies for improved levels of  healing.

Qi (Chi) means “life energy” and gong means “cultivation and its benefits.” Qigong, an ancient technology and revitalized science of energy healing, has developed through more than 5000 years of Chinese history. Through gentle movement, visualization, sound, breathing and conscious intention, the ancient practice of Qigong energy healing dynamically restores the life energy and creative power within oneself. As the underlying causes of life’s challenges are released, you reconnect with the universal source and bring new and vital energy streams into the flow of life. With this practice, you amplify a web of positive changes for you, your loved ones, and planet Earth.

If like most people in our fast paced world of today, you are looking for a way to reconnect, slow down and revitalize your body, mind, and spirit, then utilizing the practice of Qigong would be a wonderful way to get started.

I recommend that you listen to and visit Mingtong’s website “The Chi Center“.  His website is loaded with video’s and will provide you with a deeper insight into the many benefits of Qigong.  Enjoy this wonderful interview with Mingtong Gu.

Podcast 221: Awakened Wisdom-Part Two(2) with Patrick Ryan

Patrick Ryan It is always a pleasure having author Patrick Ryan on our show.  This is Patrick’s second visit to Inside Personal Growth, and in this podcast we take a deeper dive into his book entitled “Awakened Wisdom“.

In my interview with Patrick we discuss the eight (8) states of an Awakened Life.  Patrick covers in depth two of the eight (8) states of being: A Good State of Being, and A Good State of Effort.  As Patrick states in his book, a good state of being is to be in relationship with all that there is.  To be without any sense of separation from each other, the plants, animals, and even the rocks and all the other things and beings that exist.  Any sense of me versus you or we versus them or I versus it is separation.  We must relearn and find out way back to our knowing of this fundamental truth.   So in essence, he is speaking about the oneness of us–all of us.  If can can learn to live in this state of consciousness our lives will be more fulfilled and blissful.

The other state of an Awakened Life is ” A State of Effort” as Patrick refers to it.  Moving through the world in a Good State of Effort will have the most profound impact on your life if practiced well.  You have no doubt heard the expression that life is about the journey, not the destination.  That’s at the center of a Good State of Effort.  It is important to be present as you move through each moment and each task of your day.  When you move with presence you are aware of the quality of the moment that you are in while moving forward with the objective in mind. Both of these ideas must be present at the same time in order to be and remain in a Good State of Effort.  Be in the present moment and be aware of the effort that you are putting forth.

I believe that the states of being that Patrick articulates in his book ” Awakened Wisdom” are something that everyone should learn to apply in life.  They should become as natural as breathing!.  If you are interested in learning more about the “Awakened Life Programs” please click here to be directed to Patrick’s website.  He has lots of resources that you can avail yourself of at no charge.

Please take advantage of this website, it is a wonderful resource for anyone on the path of enlightenment!!!

Podcast 214: Paths Beyond Ego with Roger Walsh M.D.

Roger Walsh M.D.

I am always impressed by Dr. Roger Walsh and his vast knowledge and wisdom.  This is my second interview with Roger and I know you are going to thoroughly enjoy this podcast about his book entitled, “Paths Beyond Ego-The Transpersonal Vision”

Roger compiled fifty essays from some of the top thinkers in the areas of transpersonal psychology,  spirituality, and cosmology.  Some of the authors that have contributed to “Paths Beyond Ego” are:  Ken Wilber, Daniel Goldman, Jack Kornfield, Ram Dass, Huston Smith, The Dalai Lama and many others.  Roger and I discuss the tools and practices that can be practiced in assisting us in reaching more of our human potential. Many of the practices are associated with developing our own deep personal spiritual journey.

As is stated in the introduction of “Paths Beyond Ego” we are astoundingly ingenious creatures.  We have gone to the moon, split the atom, unraveled the genetic code, and probed the birth of the universe.  Indeed, modern civilization stands as a monument to boundless creativity of the human intellect.  Yet, while evidence of our intellectual and technological genius is all around us, there is growing concern that in other ways we have seriously underestimated ourselves. In part because of the blinding brilliance of our technological triumphs, we have distracted and dissociated ourselves from our inner world, sought outside for answers that can only be found within, denied the subjective and the sacred, overlooked latent capacities of mind, imperiled our planet and lived in a collective trance–a contracted, distorted state of mind that goes unrecognized because we share it and take it to be “normality”

I highly encourage you to listen to my podcast with Dr. Roger Walsh as we explore how to elevate our own consciousness through the spiritual practices that are available to anyone on a path of spiritual inquiry.

I love the quote from the book by Patanjali, who compiled the classic text of yoga: “The mind does not shine by its own light. It too is an object, illumined by the Self–But the Self is boundless. It is the pure Consciousness that illumines the contents of the mind…Egoism, the limiting sense of “I ” results from the individual intellect’s attributing the power of consciousness to self.”
If you would like more information about Dr. Roger Walsh and his many books, I welcome you to visit his website by clicking here.

Podcast 211: Fearless with Brenda Shoshanna Ph.D.

Brenda Shoshanna Ph.D.Dr. Brenda Shoshanna is a fascinating and engaging author, and her new book entitled “Fearless-The 7 Principles of Peace of Mind” is a must read for anyone who is currently experiencing anxiety, stress or fear over circumstances and events in their lives.  In the world in which we live today, if you are human it is almost impossible to not be exposed to events and circumstances that produce the emotion of fear within.

Dr. Shoshanna in her new book “Fearless” has created a unique guide to understanding how fear works.  She blends the teachings of the East and West, and includes real-life anecdotes and practical exercises which provide the psychological, spiritual, and practical guidance for attaining a life of growth, fulfillment, creativity  and well-being.  No matter what your fears might be Dr Shoshanna shows how to convert this constant sense of dread into peace of mind.

In each chapter, Dr. Shoshanna explores one of seven principles of peace of mind and teaches us how to dissolve a related form of fear, transforming it into a source of courage and strength.  In my interview with Dr. Shoshanna we explore the seven principles of creating a peace of mind.

As Dr. Shoshanna articulates, fear is a great deceiver.  When you buy into the lies it sells, it takes your time, hope, and life force from you.  In exchange for the false sense of well-being fear offers, you give away your birthright.  If you want to learn how to take back your courage and face your fears head on, then I recommend that you read “Fearless-The 7 Principles of Peace of Mind“.  This is a wonderful book loaded with exercises and practices that will allow you to regain your strength, courage and fearless attitude.

If you want to learn more about Dr. Shoshanna and other books please click here to be linked to her website.  I know you are going to enjoy this interview with a very knowledgeable psychologist helping people over come fear and regain their authentic selves.

Podcast 189: Spring Forest Qigong with Chunyi Lin

Chunyi LinI had the honor of interviewing Chunyi Lin one of the foremost masters on the practice of Qigong.  I know many of you have seen people in the park or possibly on the health channel performing the practice of Qigong and all of the associated methodically movements, and you just might be wondering what it is all about?

According to Chunyi Lin and his book and audio program entitled, “Spring Forest Fundamentals-Unlocking Your Healing Energy: A Simple Guide to Experiencing Optimal Health and Wellness,”  Qigong is the study of energy and since everything is a form of energy, Qigong it is the study of the whole universe, including physics, chemistry, psychology, biology, astrology, electricity and medicine.

In China, the ancient art of Qigong has been practiced for many different purposes for thousands of years and the benefits are as many as there are aspects of life.  The Spring Forest Qigong focus is the use of Qigong for healing.

In my interview with Chunyi Lin the Master Qigong teacher, we discuss the importance of getting the movement of energy flowing and releasing the points of blockage.  Chunyi Lin states that there are six main causes of energy blockages: 1) Unbalanced Emotion, 2) Nutrition 3) Weather and Seasons 4) Environment 5) Wrong medications 6) Injury. The active exercises to help release the blockages are like moving meditations. They strengthen our physical energy and help to open all of the energy channels in the body.  They help bring our Yin and Yang energy back into balance, get rid of energy blockages and develop our spiritual energy so that we can heal physically, mentally and spiritually at the same time.

I encourage you to listen to this wonderful podcast with a master in the art and practice of Qigong.  The Spring Forest techniques will certainly heal you, and bring more peace into your life.

If you want to learn more about the Spring Forest Qigong programs I would recommend that you visit the Spring Forest website by clicking here.  Enjoy this wonderful interview with author and master Qigong teacher Chunyi Lin.

Podcast 180: Awakening Joy with James Baraz

James BarazI believe that everyone would like to have a little more joy and happiness in their lives.  In my interview with James Baraz we explore the 10 steps that James believes will help us in claiming our joy.

In James new book entitled, “Awakening Joy–10 Steps That Will Put You on the Road to Real Happiness“, we explore the elements that are important to having more joy and happiness in life.  James states that you can decide to be happy.  For years, James’ online Awakening Joy course has offered participants from around the world the benefits of this simple but profoundly radical proposition.  Grounded in simple Buddhist principles but accessible to people of all faiths—or no faith at all–this concept provides the jumping-off point for a transformational journey toward a richer, more meaningful, more positive outlook on life.

Now readers everywhere can follow the same ten steps James teaches to his program participants.  In this down to earth guide, you will learn how to

  • make  happiness a habit by inclining your mind toward states that lead to well-being.
  • find joy even during difficult times and avoid the pitfalls that prevent you from achieving the contentment you seek.
  • cultivate effective practices for sustaining joyfulness, such as reclaiming your natural sense of wonder and finding joy in the midst of everyday life.

If you are seeking more joy and happiness in your life, and would like to understand some very valuable steps that can assist you in claiming the joy that is your right, then I highly recommend that you read James’ new book, “Awakening Joy–10 Steps That Will Put You on the Road to Real Happiness“.  You will thoroughly enjoy our interview, while learning more about the steps toward joy.  Please go to James’ website by clicking here for more information on his workshop, book and videos.

By the way here is a link to a video that James’ mother did that is just downright hilarious. She speak about how her son the author James ruined her life because he Awakened her to Joy in her life.  A great video for those who love Jewish mother humor.  Click here to watch the video.

Podcast 161: Your Body Speaks Your Mind with Deb Shapiro

Deb ShapiroI have had the wonderful pleasure of being able to interview Deb Shapiro again.  My first interview was with Deb and her husband Ed about their new book entitled “Be The Change”.

In this podcast I will be speaking with Deb about her new book entitled, ” Your Body Speaks Your Mind“.  This new book address the mind body connection, and the role that our mind plays in your overall well being.  Wellness is primarily a state of mind, and your emotions play an important role in how you feel.

Dis-ease manifests itself in various ways within our bodies and what Deb Shapiro outlines in her book is the importance of understanding our mind/body connection.

She utilizes real life stories to help the reader understand the various ways that our body reacts to our mental conditions.  She states “As you think so you become: your thoughts and words are like seeds that germinate and grow. Your state of health shows how you have been thinking: the seeds take root and begin to influence the shape the cell structures of your physical body.  When you think of illness–or life–as being out of your control, or as an obstacle that you cannot overcome, then none of your physical energy will be directed toward healing, as no “living” message will be sent to your body.”

When illness–or living is seen as a learning experience, an opportunity to deepen your relationship with yourself, then healing is possible. The most common blocks are negative attitudes that a lot of people carry around all the time.  Deb states in order to become healed, a person has to throw out hatred, envy, jealousy and other destructive attitudes and feelings.  Although such factors start within the mind, they quickly manifest in our body, becoming a stiff shoulder, a sluggish liver, cancer or other illnesses.

If you want to better understand the mind/body connection then I encourage you to listen to this wonderful podcast with Deb Shapiro.  You can also get all sorts of useful information by visiting her website by clicking here.

To your good health!!!!!

Podcast 151: Five Good Minutes Meditation Series with Jeffrey Brantley M.D.

Jeffrey-Brantley-M.D.-color-headshot-175x261This is my second interview with Dr. Jeff Brantley, and I love this new series of books entitled, “Five Good Minutes“.  Jeff and his co-author, Wendy Millstine, have written a series of mini-books that provide anyone who is seeking to practice mindfulness anytime, anywhere, the opportunity to learn how to do it.  You can pick up one of the series of the books and find valuable information, thoughts and practices to make your day more calm, relaxed and fulfilled.

We all know during these challenging times that we need to become more present and aware.  “The Five Good Minutes” books are filled with 100 reminders and practices to do at work, with the one you love, in the morning, in the evening and with your body.  The practices are so well thought out and easy to remember that it makes reading and having the books around as a reminder a great way to get yourself engaged in a practice of mindfulness.

I know that for a fact many of us just run all day long, then out of pure exhaustion just fall in bed and go to sleep.  This not good for your sex life, and it certainly does not set you up for a positive dream state.

One of the recommendation is the “Five Good Minutes in the Evening” is to break the routine.  Go for a leisurely walk or jog around you neighborhood. Take a hot bath, meditate, read a book, do something creative, start a new project.  Whatever it is, break the routine.

Just before bed, breath and listen mindfully for about a minute.  Set your intentions before going to bed and this will assist you in being more calm and most likely falling asleep quicker.  The”Five Good Minute” books are filled with wonderful ideas, things to think about and practices.  I highly recommend any one of the five books or all five to provide you with a well rounded opportunity to practice anywhere and anytime.

If you would like to learn more about the “Five Good Minute” book series please click here for more information.  If you would like to learn about Dr. Brantley and his practice please visit his website by clicking here.

Podcast 148: Be The Change with Ed and Deb Shapiro

Ed and Deb ShapiroCome with me on this wonderful journey with two of the most amazing people who have not only practiced the fine art of meditation, but have taken the time to interview over 100 people who have personally benefited by the practice of meditation.

Ed and Deb Shapiro’s new book entitled, “Be The Change-How Meditation can Transform You and the World“,  is a wonderful book for anyone who wants to learn more about the incredible benefits of a regular practice of meditation.   They have interviewed everyone from Dr. John Grey to Dr. Dean Ornish and their stories are revealed in this wonderful book.

What you will find from reading the interviews is that all of the individuals who have started a practice of meditation have shifted their lives for the better, and have gone on to look beyond themselves and have a focus on how to help and serve others.  One of the amazing benefits of meditation is that it calms your mind to a point of being able to get in touch with a higher spirit, an energy that is greater than you. You emerge with a peaceful energy that can be used for good.  You are more calm, focused and have the ability to move your life in a graceful way in new and exciting directions.

Compassion is something that we should all practice more of, and if you are looking to to get in touch with the compassionate part of your being then meditation is one way to open up that channel of energy and be of total service to your fellow human beings.  I love this statement in the book by Jon Kabat-Zinn, “We have to learn how to put out the welcome mat for our own shadow side because when we suppress it, we project it onto others and we get the us-and them syndrome: We are right and they are not, so let’s kill them before they kill us.”

This book is for anyone who wants to “Be The Change” and open up to the good they can do not only for themselves but for for others by practicing meditation and the peace that it brings to the world one persona at a time.

Please go to Ed and Deb Shapiro’s website by clicking here to learn more about the good projects they are involved with.

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