Self Help

Toxic Positivity

Background

Published in 2022, “Toxic Positivity: Keeping It Real in a World Obsessed with Being Happy” by Whitney Goodman examines the societal pressure to maintain constant positivity, even during challenging times. The book delves into how dismissing negative emotions in favor of a perpetually cheerful outlook can hinder genuine emotional processing and personal growth. Goodman provides insights into recognizing and addressing toxic positivity, advocating for a more balanced approach to emotional well-being that acknowledges the full spectrum of human experiences.

Toxic Positivity
Toxic Positivity

My Thoughts

For the most part, Goodman’s book was in line with my preconceived notions of a healthy individual. Putting a happy face on everything is not the answer. You can’t “manifest” good health, money, skill, or a better partner with positive affirmations. I also appreciated Goodman’s seemingly heretical idea that you don’t need to live in a state of pure bliss all the time (perhaps skipping through fields while holding hands and singing isn’t sustainable in the long term). I really enjoyed her grounded approach to life and her attempt to manage expectations. I feel many people are chasing the wrong ideal and that leads to disappointment if not outright tragedy.

However, I struggled with the author’s need to fully distance herself from the experiences of people with different perspectives. While validating another person’s unique experiences is essential to their acceptance of your validation, the principle cuts both ways. If no one can fully understand another person’s experience, then they can’t claim to understand the experience of any other person. Thus, when Goodman says she can’t understand the experience of a Black person or struggling with gender issues, she is inconsistent to assume understanding of groups she belongs to, such as all women, mothers, or wives. As a practicing counselor, she likely has valuable insights into the diverse groups she works with daily, regardless of her inclusion into their groups. Of course, I can certainly understand the practical challenges of writing books that address sensitive diverse audiences (myself included).

Recommendation

A solid read with many good ideas.

How to Eat: All Your Food and Diet Questions Answered

Published in 2020, “How to Eat: All Your Food and Diet Questions Answered” was co-authored by Mark Bittman and Dr. David L. Katz, How to Eat addresses common questions about food, health, and diet in a straightforward Q&A format. The book covers topics such as optimal dietary patterns, the role of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, and the impact of specific foods like grains, meat, and dairy on health. Bittman and Katz aim to dispel myths and clarify misconceptions surrounding nutrition, providing readers with practical advice for making informed dietary choices. The content is inspired by their popular article on Grub Street, where they shared their perspectives on food and diet.

How to Eat
How to Eat

My Thoughts

This is my wife’s favorite book on dieting or to be more specific, it is on a how best to make a permanent change. Again and again, Bittman and Katz make the point that we know a great deal about what people should eat. What we should eat shouldn’t be in excess or based on one food or even macro nutrient. Our food should be minimally processed and we likely don’t need to eat meat in our food rich country. They also dive into sustainability and ethical considerations.

I liked the book in that the recommendations were based on robust studies and declared biases. A common refrain in the text was, “compared to what” when asked if something is bad. (E.g. Is bread bad? Compared to what? If donuts, yes. If whole grain, no.) The book was easy to read as it is largely in-line with my existing thoughts about food. I don’t know I agree about their position on meat and protein, but I do agree with the rest. The book was a success in that it served to motivate me to eat better.

My Recommendation

Good book

Breaking Free from Sloth

Background

Published in 2012, “Breaking Free from Sloth” is a concise work by Donna Farhi, first published on February 7, 2012. In this selection from her book Bringing Yoga to Life, Farhi explores the concept of sloth, not merely as laziness, but as a habitual disinclination toward purposeful effort. Drawing from her extensive experience as a yoga teacher, she discusses how sloth can impede personal growth and spiritual practice. Farhi offers insights into overcoming self-sabotage and emphasizes the importance of aligning one’s actions with cherished values to live a more fulfilling life.

Breaking Free from Sloth
Breaking Free from Sloth

My Thoughts

This book read much like most yoga books I’ve gone through. It starts with defining terms and talks about finding the balance between extremes. However, it’s a good reminder not to get in a rut or do too much.

Recommendation

Very quick read and good advice.

Healing Anxiety and Depression

Background

Published in 2004, “Healing Anxiety and Depression” authored by Dr. Daniel G. Amen and Dr. Lisa C. Routh, explores the neurological underpinnings of anxiety and depression through brain SPECT imaging. The authors identify seven distinct types of these disorders, each associated with specific brain patterns. They provide tailored treatment plans for each type, incorporating medication, diet, supplements, exercise, and therapeutic support. The book also includes a self-diagnostic test to help readers determine their specific type, aiming to offer a comprehensive approach to managing and overcoming anxiety and depression.

Healing Anxiety and Depression
Healing Anxiety and Depression

My Thoughts

While it is now a dated resource, I enjoyed several of the ideas put forth in the text. First is the idea that it is helpful to see what the brain is doing before a round of medication is attempted. The authors liken this to trying to figure out why a car won’t start without looking under the hood. I like this idea for a number of reasons.

First, it makes sense. It is my personal belief that most psychotropic medications are prescribed without a clear understanding of the underlying problem. Therefore, they are given with the expectation that they will need to be adjusted based on changes in the patient’s symptoms. However, dialing in a medication can take several years, if the patient hangs on that long.

Second, if there is no understanding of the underlying problem, it is unclear which medication to try. While the doctor and patient are trying to find the right dosage, the medication itself might be going in the wrong direction. (For example, if you want to decrease activity in the basal ganglia, then you shouldn’t prescribe a stimulant.)

Third, there may be a structural issue in the brain causing the problem, such as the cyst in the temporal lobe given as an example in the book. This would not be impacted by medication, no matter the dosage.

I am interested in learning more about the costs involved with SPECT scans and where they fall in the spectrum of care today. I appreciated that the book discussed diet and exercise as important to a person’s mental health.

Recommendation

This book is fairly specialized and assumes a certain level understanding of chemistry and psychology. The first part of the book was mostly medications and their side effects. It was fairly dense reading and was harder to push through. If you have interest and a high school education, you should be able to make it through.

Christlike Parenting

Background

Published in 2002, “Christlike Parenting” by Glenn I. Latham, presents a approach to raising children emphasizing the importance of kindness, patience, positive reinforcement in parenting, and encouraging parents to model their behavior after Christ. By focusing on building positive relationships and avoiding punitive discipline, Latham shows how effective parenting can lead to happier, more respectful children. The techniques are explained and both scriptural references and psychological insights are cited, making the book a useful guide for Christian families and those looking for practical parenting advice rooted in love and understanding.

Christlike Parenting
Christlike Parenting

My Thoughts

While I felt some of Dr. Latham’s methods were a little too “Pollyanna” for the real world, I do agree with most of what he put in the book. Kids really don’t need you yelling at them and the world heaps plenty of problems on them without their parents adding to the load. As much as I believe all parents try to stay in control of the situation, they typically aren’t in an environment of stress. That said, I thought the majority of the book to be pretty well spot on.

What I believe was missing from the book is how to “repair” the damage after it occurs. Likely his response would be something along the lines of being consistent, forgiving, and being the role model for the children to emulate. However, I believe that would include owning our issues and apologizing to children when appropriate. That can be a hard pill to swallow by several families, but I believe it to be worth it.

Also, Dr. Latham quoted my Psychology Chair at Utah State, Dr. Carl Cheney on page 115. That really made my day! He is an incredible man and loved seeing his name in print.

Recommendation

Not bad. It was a quick read and a good reminder.

The Tech-Wise Family

Background

Published in 2017, “The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place,” by Andy Crouch, explores how families can navigate the influence of technology in modern life. Crouch provides advice and insights on creating an intentional approach to tech use, encouraging families to foster deeper relationships, creativity, and spiritual growth. By prioritizing human connections and setting thoughtful boundaries around digital devices, the book aims to help families reclaim their time and attention from the distractions of the digital age.

The Tech-Wise Family
The Tech-Wise Family

My Thoughts

Distractions by technology have certainly been on the rise. However, it also gives us access to information and communication on a scale never seen in recorded history. I emphatically agreed with Crouch’s assertion that this technology needs to be regulated. While I do agree with the broad strokes of the message, I disagree on exactly how to go about implementing his vision. I will also give him credit for his disclaimers that he and his family are not perfect in their execution of his espoused ideals.

One section of the book resonated with me in particular. The idea that we have unprecedented access to all the best music in the world and yet make the least music of any time in history. While this could be seen as just another sector of specialization, I’d not thought about so many people never making music themselves. I sincerely hope almost everyone at least has the experience of singing in the shower as making music strikes me a fundamentally human activity. Maybe other specialities are as rewarding from neurosurgery to parkour. (PARKOUR!!!)

I am an optimist when it comes to technology. I sincerely believe most people will figure out their own balance and are not in need of the rules Crouch tries to follow. However, I salute his attempt to address the situation. I strongly believe parents need to support their children and, in most cases, that will require them to place reasonable boundaries on their activities. In theory, we (as parents) have the benefit of experience to give perspective to these boundaries. Yet, these disruptions are so new, many of us are still reeling with the changes. It may feel like it is the blind leading the blind here, yet I believe it is the same struggle as before. We, as humans, need to be intentional about our lives. We crave attachments and are easily bored with the shallow and vapid things of this life. It may take time, but I believe we each have to learn our own way and those of us smart enough to learn from others will have a distinct advantage.

Recommendation

A little preachy, but a good book.

My Tech-Wise Life

Background

Published in November of 2020, “My Tech-Wise Life: Growing Up and Making Choices in a World of Devices,” is co-authored by Amy Crouch and her father, Andy Crouch. The book explores Amy’s experiences growing up in a household that prioritized intentional and controlled use of technology. Amy, a Cornell University student, reflects on how this tech-wise upbringing helped her avoid common digital pitfalls and cultivate meaningful real-world interactions. Supported by research from the Barna Group, the book examines the pervasive influence of technology on young people’s lives and offers practical advice for balancing digital engagement with offline experiences. Andy Crouch provides additional insights, creating a dialogue attempting to bridge generational perspectives on managing technology effectively.

My Tech-Wise Life
My Tech-Wise Life

My Thoughts

My wife was reading, “The Tech-Wise Family”, which was written by Andy Crouch and really enjoyed it. I tried to reserve it and put it on hold. However, this one was available so I grabbed it and got started.

I enjoyed and agree with most of the things presented in the subject, yet I found the back and forth with the father distracting and unnecessary. Amy seemed to be genuine and was engaged with the topic. I believe she is likely to be able to connect with the younger audience. Her dad on the other hand came off as a little preachy. I understand that I am not the target demographic for this book, but even I didn’t like the guy. I will still read his book when it comes available though.

Recommendation

It was ok. I likely would have felt a bit better about it if I had read Andy’s book first.

Body Confidence

Background

Published in 2011, “Body Confidence” by Mark Macdonald offers a comprehensive guide to achieving optimal health and fitness through a balanced approach to nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle habits. The book introduces the “Venice Nutrition Program,” which emphasizes stabilizing blood sugar levels to maintain energy, burn fat, and build lean muscle. Macdonald provides practical advice, meal plans, and workout routines, aiming to empower readers to take control of their bodies and develop lasting confidence. The focus is on creating sustainable habits rather than quick fixes, promoting a holistic and personalized path to wellness.

Body Confidence
Body Confidence

My Thoughts

I’ve been looking for a good motivational book for a while and this one was not what I wanted. However, his idea does have some appeal in that the usual-body-technobabble made some sense. I liked his whole life approach and emphasis on not shaming. I liked that he supports an incremental build and understands it takes time to change. I didn’t like the idea of eating several times a day, but it’s the foundation of everything he is trying to preach. It is what it is.

For my personal journey, I’ve found as I’ve read these books that my opinions are fairly well solidified when it comes to health and nutrition. (I’m just looking for the motivation to do it.) By that measurement this book would only receive partial credit.

Recommendation

If you are looking to join another diet, this one may be right for you. If not, skip it.

Skinny Bastard

Background

Published in 2009, “Skinny Bastard,” challenges conventional dietary norms and advocates for a plant-based lifestyle to achieve optimal health and vitality. Through a combination of hard-hitting facts, humor, and practical advice, the book sheds light on the detrimental effects of meat and dairy consumption on health, the environment, and animal welfare. With a straightforward and no-nonsense approach, it empowers readers to take control of their health by adopting a plant-based diet, offering a wealth of information and resources to support this lifestyle change.

Skinny Bastard
Skinny Bastard

My Thoughts

I enjoyed how the book is written and after several attempts at reading some dietary books, which ended up written for women, I was hoping to find something a little more geared to men. This seemed to be a good alternative.

However, the book turned out to be just another attempt to push people into a fad diet with some tired slander and cherry picked research. (Much of which has been discredited in the last decade and even retracted by one of the doctors they cite.)

Recommendation

It started well but quick spiraled. Skip this one.

Fight Fat After Forty

Background

Published in 2000, “Fight Fat After Forty” is a health and wellness book by Pamela Peeke, M.D. It addresses the unique challenges women face in managing their weight after the age of forty. The book delves into the physiological changes such as hormonal fluctuations that can impact metabolism, mood, and energy levels. Dr. Peeke combines scientific research with practical advice, proposing a comprehensive plan that includes diet modifications, stress management techniques, and an exercise regimen tailored to enhance metabolic efficiency. The core message is that understanding and adapting to these bodily changes can empower women to maintain fitness and health.

Fight Fat After Forty
Fight Fat After Forty

My Thoughts

I am feeling a little larger than I’d prefer and I wanted to listen to something motivational while I had some time on my hands. I was shooting my son’s track meet when I picked out this book and didn’t quite look at it close enough. This book is all about the female side of health, but I figured, why not? Maybe I’ll learn something…

I found the book to be pretty well balanced as it didn’t advocate extreme versions of dieting. Dr. Peeke attempts to get to the reasons why women feel hungry and what to expect as they reach their forties. She gives practical advise and doesn’t go for the all-or-nothing or shaming approaches to weight loss.

On another note, I brought down two titles to listen to. The other looked like a clinical overview. It turned out it was all about women as well. It’s rare I send anything back, but I made an exception in this case. Sorry, Sara Gottfried M.D. I didn’t read “The Brain Body Diet” but the cover successfully reeled in a download.

Recommendation

I good balanced book on healthy eating. I highly recommend two X chromosomes.