Author Archives: phyllis
Virtual Book Tour with Karyn L. Freedman
Today we are pleased to host philosopher Karyn L. Freedman on our website, where she’ll be discussing her powerful memoir, One Hour in Paris: A True Story of Rape and Recovery. Her book was voted one of the Globe and Mail’s 100 best books of 2014. At once deeply personal and terrifyingly universal, Freedman weaves together her experience with the latest philosophical and psychological insights on what it means to live in a body that has been traumatized. She draws on recent theories of posttraumatic stress disorder and neuroplasticity to … Continue reading
What We Can Learn from Japan about Respect
Looking over my pictures from a recent trip to Japan (click on photos to enlarge) got me thinking about this centuries-old culture. It’s a beautiful country with a certain set of characteristics that make it seem insular, cohesive and unique. There is a tight-knit social fabric, no immigration and the only spoken language is Japanese. With over 34 million people in Tokyo and the surrounding areas, it’s amazingly well organized. Trains and subways run exactly on time, like a Swiss clock. You don’t see any graffiti in common areas or … Continue reading
Posted in extended family, stress, well-being
Tagged gaman, good manners, harmony with nature, hospitality, Japan, Japanese culture, moral standards, omotenashi, photos, rituals, ryokans, strict rules, traditions, travel, Zen Buddhism
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Clearing Out Clutter
It may be a function of getting older, but I’m more ready than ever for less excess and more simplicity. Of course, part of the reason is that we recently moved into a smaller condo. But now that I’m 70, it’s time to take stock. Perhaps you too want your mantra to be less is more. But why does that persistent inner voice still encourage us to hold on? Sentimental feelings – You may still feel attached to the handmade cards and pasta necklaces your children or even grandchildren have … Continue reading
The Power of the Pen
If you want to stay emotionally on track, why not consider journaling? When we experience a traumatic event or painful transition, our thoughts often keep us up at night. Translating these crises into language can help us get a better grasp on how we feel and what to do about it. Journaling is a fluid form of writing where you can record your concerns, explore personal issues and clear your head. It’s a way to connect to your feelings and clarify your thoughts. Want to tap into your stream of … Continue reading
Posted in stress, well-being, your self
Tagged disappointment, family, frustration, journaling, marriage, painful transition, relationships, stress, traumatic event
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