Blog Archives
Healing in Advance: Your Prehabilitation Handbook
Alexander Watson’s Healing in Advance is a comprehensive guide designed to empower individuals navigating challenging medical journeys. Whether managing chronic illnesses, preparing for major surgeries, or undergoing acute treatments, this book introduces a transformative concept: “prehabilitation” (prehab). Watson positions prehab as a proactive strategy to build physical and mental resilience before medical interventions. Through a focus on exercise, lifestyle changes, and nervous system care—what he calls the “three pillars”—the book equips readers with tools to optimize outcomes and enhance quality of life.
Backed by evidence-based insights and current research, Watson presents practical strategies grounded in science. Readers benefit from detailed exercises, nutritional guidance, and stress management techniques, all tailored to diverse conditions. Emerging treatments, including innovative drug combinations and cutting-edge therapies, reflect the book’s forward-thinking approach. This breadth of information ensures the content remains inclusive and relevant, appealing to a wide audience.
Watson writes with empathy and support, acknowledging the emotional and psychological toll of medical challenges. The tone reassures without minimizing the difficulty of these journeys, empowering readers to take actionable steps with confidence. By combining research-backed interventions with a conversational, non-judgmental style, the book becomes both a credible resource and a comforting companion. Clear disclaimers encourage consultation with healthcare professionals, reinforcing its role as a supplemental guide rather than a replacement for medical advice.
Watson employs an accessible, direct style that balances technical detail with relatability. Relatable metaphors and analogies—such as likening medical challenges to navigating a fast-moving vehicle—simplify complex concepts. The book’s structured chapters, clear headings, and use of bullet points ensure a logical flow, making it easy for readers to digest and apply the information.
Alexander Watson’s Healing in Advance is an essential guide for anyone seeking clarity in the complexities of medical preparation. It blends empathy, scientific rigor, and actionable advice to serve as both a roadmap and a source of reassurance. Watson’s focus on preparation transforms feelings of helplessness into purposeful action, offering a sense of control during uncertain times. With its engaging tone and well-organized content, Healing in Advance is a vital contribution to the fields of patient empowerment and prehabilitation literature.
Pages: 270 | ASIN : B0DNWJYB8M
Starving for Acceptance: One Man’s Journey with Anorexia and Bulimia
Starving for Acceptance is a raw and honest memoir that delves into Scott Fishman’s decades-long struggle with anorexia, bulimia, and body image issues. The memoir chronicles Fishman’s life from childhood to his eventual steps toward recovery, offering a rare and necessary perspective on male eating disorders. His journey is told with unflinching candor, shedding light on a topic often shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding.
What struck me first was how relatable Fishman’s early insecurities felt. His yearning for athleticism and approval from his father is heartbreakingly detailed in chapters like “The Concert,” where his father’s lateness to a pivotal performance underscored a recurring sense of neglect. That pain resonated deeply with me and set the stage for understanding how Fishman’s self-esteem eroded over time. His vulnerability is palpable, and it’s hard not to root for him, even as he describes the darker moments.
Fishman’s writing shines in its ability to balance the deeply personal with the universal. In “The Scale,” his obsession with weight is both alarming and sadly familiar in a world fixated on appearances. He describes sneaking onto bathroom scales with such detail that I could feel his anxiety through the pages. This isn’t just a story about numbers or calories. It’s about control, self-worth, and the lies our minds tell us. The intensity of his inner conflict, likened to a battle with an alter ego named “Ed,” makes the memoir unforgettable.
The structure of the book, with its focus on moments that shaped Fishman’s relationship with food and his body, is effective. One standout is the chapter “The Basketball Game,” where a casual compliment about his physique becomes a pivotal moment, shifting his identity toward his body’s appearance. His excitement, paired with the foreshadowed tragedy of obsession, had me simultaneously cheering and cringing. This blend of triumph and heartbreak encapsulates the emotional rollercoaster Fishman navigates.
Fishman emphasizes hope, albeit hard-won, and stresses the importance of addressing eating disorders early. His ability to reflect on his journey with humility and humor makes his story as inspiring as it is informative. The memoir doesn’t shy away from its darker moments, but it also never loses sight of the possibility of recovery.
I’d recommend Starving for Acceptance to anyone looking to understand the complexities of eating disorders, especially as they relate to men. It’s a must-read for educators, therapists, and families, but also for anyone who’s ever felt unseen or unworthy.
Pages: 264 | ASIN : B0DNJ5KQ5N
Pain-Free Joints
Sandy Bravo’s Pain-Free Joints takes readers on an insightful journey into understanding and managing joint pain through lifestyle changes. The book thoughtfully weaves together research, personal anecdotes, and practical advice. Bravo emphasizes the role of diet, exercise, and mental health in fostering joint health. The content, spanning from the basics of joint anatomy to actionable steps like adopting anti-inflammatory diets and ergonomics, is a resourceful guide for anyone battling joint discomfort.
Bravo’s writing style is approachable. She makes complex topics, like the mechanics of joint pain or the role of inflammation, easy to grasp. Her focus on holistic management, such as integrating stress-relief techniques alongside physical exercise, resonated deeply with me. It’s refreshing to read a health book that doesn’t just prescribe solutions but contextualizes them within daily life. Bravo’s anecdotes, like her conversations with a chiropractor in Chapter 2, kept me engaged. She emphasizes how small, everyday habits, such as adjusting your posture or swapping sugary snacks for anti-inflammatory foods, can drastically improve joint health. These practical nuggets made me reflect on my own habits.
Bravo’s tone shines brightest in her sections on mental health and motivation. I appreciated her candid acknowledgment of the emotional toll joint pain can take, and her advice to embrace small, sustainable changes felt empowering. The advice to use an anti-inflammatory diet, complete with detailed food lists, was a highlight. It struck a balance between being informative and actionable.
I’d recommend Pain-Free Joints to anyone looking to take control of their joint health, whether they’re dealing with arthritis, recovering from an injury, or simply aiming for preventive care. Bravo’s guidance is comprehensive yet accessible, making it ideal for readers who prefer practical, actionable advice. If you’re ready to commit to small but meaningful lifestyle changes, this book is a great companion for the journey.
Pages: 113 | ASIN : B0DMPD9T52
The Complete Mindbody Dictionary: For Practitioners, Professionals, Coaches, the Mindful and Wellness Minded
The Complete Mindbody Dictionary, by Ronald B. Wayman and Denise Wayman Scholes, is a hefty guide that dives deep into the connections between our minds, emotions, and physical health. It’s part dictionary, part wellness handbook, offering entries for 240 conditions ranging from common ailments like migraines and back pain to more complex issues like chronic disease. Each entry details the troubled mindset associated with the condition, a healing mindset, affirmations to shift thought patterns, and even foods to support recovery. It’s a comprehensive resource designed to help readers align their mental, emotional, and physical well-being, whether they’re practitioners or everyday individuals seeking balance and insight.
What struck me first was how beautifully the book ties emotional states to physical ailments. Reading through, I noticed how often I’d pause to reflect on my own patterns. The book invites introspection and action. I also loved how the affirmations are simple but impactful. They are easy to integrate into meditation or daily life.
The section on phobias deeply resonated with me on a personal level. I’ve struggled with a persistent fear that has felt insurmountable at times, and the insights in this book gave me both understanding and hope. The line, “Bridging this gap is learning to integrate the many parts of your mind, heart, and body,” struck me like a revelation. It framed my fear not as a weakness but as something rooted in primal survival instincts. The section encouraged me to approach my phobia with self-compassion, using practical techniques like breathing exercises and pacing myself through moments of fear. It helped me see my fear as something I could work with rather than just endure, and that shift has been incredibly empowering.
The writing in the healing mindset sections stood out to me. It makes complex emotional concepts feel digestible. The language is soothing, like having a supportive coach guiding you through. I also appreciated how food suggestions weren’t overly prescriptive but still felt intentional, like recommending “a well-balanced diet including…” along with a list of foods to include. It’s a small detail, but it made the advice feel doable.
I did find the dictionary-style format a little daunting at first. It’s dense, and flipping through can feel overwhelming. However, the guide at the front helped simplify things, and the book is in alphabetical order. Once I got the hang of it, I found myself repeatedly reaching for the book, whether for a headache or just out of curiosity. It feels less like a reference manual and more like a companion in your wellness journey.
The Complete Mindbody Dictionary would be a fantastic fit for anyone curious about the mind-body connection. It’s ideal for holistic practitioners, wellness coaches, or even families looking for a shared resource. If you’re into self-discovery or enjoy tools that blend science and soul, this is your book.
Pages: 750 | ISBN : 978-1947176027
Signs and Symptoms
Nurse Florence, Why Do I Need to Eat Vitamin B12 or Cobalamin? teaches children about the importance of these vitamins, how they get them into their diet, and how the body uses them to function. What is the most interesting thing about B12 and Cobalamin for you?
This special vitamin is only synthesized by certain bacteria. Human symbiosis with bacteria is obvious with this necessary nutrient.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
I like sharing what signs and symptoms show deficiencies of vitamins in the Nurse Florence series. This helps people start to be more aware of their bodies.
Where did the name Nurse Florence come from, and why did you decide to use this as the name of the series?
Nurse Florence is in homage to the great Florence Nightingale from England in the 1800s. She pioneered single-handedly modern nursing. She helped create the first nursing school. She advocated for cleaner and safer hospitals around the world. We owe her a lot and need to honor her.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
Nurse Florence, Why Do I Need a Flu Shot? should come out by the end of November 2024.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Sometimes it seems only a nurse can bring technical information down to an understanding that an ordinary person can grasp. The Nurse Florence(R) book series provides high quality medical information that even a child can grasp. By introducing young kids to correct terminology and science concepts at an early age, we can help increase our children’s health literacy level as well as help to prepare them for courses and jobs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. We need more scientists so I hope that many children will enjoy this book series and consider a job involving science. Introducing Some Medical Words to Kids in Every Book(R) A Movement of Global Health Promotion and Literacy Dow Creative Enterprises(R) Help Civilization Reach Its Potential
Nurse Florence®, Tell Me About the Lymphatic System.
Nurse Florence: Tell Me About the Lymphatic System., by Michael Dow, is an engaging, educational book that introduces children to the intricacies of the lymphatic system. In the story, Jean, Condi, and Sonia seek answers from Nurse Florence, who guides them through the vital role the lymphatic system plays in keeping our bodies healthy. Through simple explanations and vibrant illustrations, readers learn about lymph nodes, the spleen, the thymus, and more. The book presents the function of these organs in a way that’s both informative and easy to understand, making it ideal for young readers curious about how their bodies work.
Nurse Florence explains how the immune system works using language that is clear and relatable, ensuring young readers grasp the concepts without feeling overwhelmed. When describing lymph nodes as “battle stations” where immune cells fight off infections, the book provides an illustration that enhances understanding. This visual approach not only aids comprehension but also keeps kids engaged, making the learning process both fun and effective.
Dow’s writing is direct and appropriate for its target audience, though at times it leans on simplicity, which may feel a bit basic for older readers. That said, this straightforwardness is a strength for younger audiences or those unfamiliar with the topic. One moment that stood out to me was when Nurse Florence explained how T cells mature in the thymus—this is a great example of how the book balances teaching scientific terms while keeping the tone light and approachable. The illustrations further elevate the text, giving kids a clearer picture of what’s being discussed.
The book encourages practical learning by tying the information back to everyday habits. Nurse Florence ends the lesson by promoting healthy practices like eating well and exercising, making the science feel actionable. This seamless connection between biology and real life can inspire kids to think about their own health, making the book both educational and motivating.
Nurse Florence: Tell Me About the Lymphatic System. is a well-crafted, engaging read that’s perfect for elementary-aged kids eager to learn about how their bodies function. The combination of easy-to-follow explanations and detailed illustrations makes it a great resource for parents, educators, or anyone wanting to introduce scientific concepts to children. If you’re looking for an educational yet entertaining book to spark your child’s interest in health and science, this is a fantastic choice.
Pages: 70 | ISBN : 978-1304762221
Bones Are Amazing
Nurse Florence, Tell Me About the Bones follows three friends who, after seeing a classmate recovering from a broken arm, ask the school nurse about how broken bones heal. What was the inspiration for your story?
Simply, it was time to write a book about bones. Bones are amazing and kids should know how they work.
You provide a lot of interesting information and present difficult concepts in a way that is understandable to even those outside the medical field. Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
Eating nuts and seeds are also good for your bones.
How do you hope your work will impact your readers?
There is a nursing shortage in the United States and it continues to grow. We need more kids interested in the health professions. I hope to make health information accessible for all so that many, many people will consider a career in the health sciences. The health professions are very challenging for many reasons, and we need capable minds pursuing jobs in these fields. I hope these books help prepare more future scientists.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
In 2023, we published a book every 10 days. In 2024, we have accelerated to a new Nurse Florence® book every 5 days. We have also launched a mental health series for teenagers and adults titled Nurse Dorothea. We publish a new Nurse Dorothea every 5 weeks. The next book is published in order of completed drawings so I kind of never know which will be the next. I have about 30 other children’s book series in mind and hope one day to be a full-time author so that I can write three books a day. This is a lot of fun for me.
Author Links: Facebook | Website
Coco’s Courage: Meeting The Dentist
Little Coco has just started kindergarten and is delighted to meet new friends and embark on new adventures. However, Coco harbors a secret: she loves candy. Discovering candy in various places, she sneaks it without her parents’ knowledge. This leads to a severe toothache, forcing Coco to confront the truth and make her first trip to the dentist. With the support, guidance, and prayers of her parents, Coco finds the courage within herself to face this new challenge.
Coco’s Courage: Meeting the Dentist, by Dr. Shon Shree Lewis, serves as a gentle introduction to dentistry for children. The illustrations by Viona Betzy and C. Lola are vibrant and brimming with the joys of childhood. The narrative unfolds at a gentle pace, and I appreciated how Coco’s parents help her face her fears, improve herself, and grow as a person throughout the story. The book also provides a reassuring explanation of the dentist’s procedures, making it an excellent tool for introducing the concept of dental visits in a non-threatening manner. The depiction of the dentist’s office, complete with an aquarium and friendly staff, helps demystify the environment for young readers. This visual aid is particularly useful in making the dentist’s office appear less intimidating and more welcoming.
While it’s important to teach children about honesty and the consequences of stealing, I feel the religious undertones may not resonate with all readers. The emphasis on praying and relying on God for courage, though comforting, might not be as relatable for a more secular audience. That being said, the story’s core message of finding courage and being honest remains universally relevant.
Coco’s Courage: Meeting the Dentist remains a cheerful and valuable book for children, emphasizing moral values and the importance of facing fears. Its core message of courage and support and its effective introduction to dental visits for young children make this the ideal book to read together at home or in the classroom. This heartwarming story about finding inner courage with parental support is perfect for children learning about dentists for the first time.
Pages: 27 | ASIN : B0BJ7M6RW7
LITERARY TITAN 