I start with the caveat that I am by no means an expert, but I have been practicing this and reading the writings of the real experts for decades. This is my own synthesis that works for me. The transformational path goes beyond meditation, which you typically only do in dedicated sessions once or twice … Continue reading Techniques For Self-Transformation →

In a recent post, I mentioned that I've tried to reframe sheltering-in-place during the Covid-19 crisis as a retreat. This has worked pretty well. I've made progress in my "mental fitness" during this time, so I've decided to go into a few blog posts about it, which this post will kick off. Meditation is great … Continue reading Meditation Is More Than Stress Relief: The Transformational Path →

I have recently read some fascinating books about findings in neuroscience, and their practical applications in cognitive behavioral therapy. Equally important, they can be used for everyone to become happier. My interest in this was first piqued when I heard, years ago, that the Dalai Lama had asked neuroscientists whether our thoughts can change our … Continue reading The Neuroplasticity Revolution- Willpower Can Change our Brains. →

I went on a bike tour to the south and West of Morgan hill, then up into the hills from the west. El Toro Up Close From the old neighborhood on the west side of Morgan Hill Ducks and Geese at Community Park. There is an unpaved path around this park that is a favorite … Continue reading Up in the Hills to the South and West →

We are now into our third month of "sheltering in place" due to Covid19. Previously I discussed various coping skills I've been using for this situation. As I mentioned, thinking of it as a retreat continues to work well for me. Equally important is getting along well with those you are "sheltering" with. We can … Continue reading Covid Coping: Enjoying Being With Your Shelter-mates →

East Dunne ave in Morgan Hill, the road I described recently that leads to Henry Coe Park, also leads up to some nice developments at the top, including Jackson Oaks to the right and Holiday lake estates to the left. There is no Holiday lake, the lake it refers to is Lake Anderson. Going through … Continue reading Holiday Lake Loop →

This video by Dr. Greger reviews some fascinating research on the influence of advertising on food choices. We like to think that we make rational choices, but it's amazing how easily that can be influenced. I loved the experiment about background instrumental music in stores. If it is French music, people are much more likely … Continue reading Food Choices Are Often Not Rational- the Role of Advertising →

A recent fascinating video by Dr. Greger describes the role of food marketing in the steady increase in food consumption in the US since around 1980, that has led to a significant average gain in weight. I was interested to see the importance of a speech made by Jack Welch, then CEO of General Electric, … Continue reading Marketing and Overconsumption of Food →

The excess calorie consumption that has contributed to the rise in obesity directly correlates to the rise in consumption of poor quality foods like junk food and fast food containing sugars and other refined carbs, and fast foods. Low-carb advocates argue its the bad carbs while others say its the fats, but in truth consumption … Continue reading A Major Contributor to Obesity: Junk Food →

I rode most of the way up to Henry Coe State Park on my bike, and also checked out poppies both near my house and further afield. Henry Coe is the largest state park in northern California at 8700 acres (350 square km) (the second largest in the state behind Anza-Borrego dessert state park) . … Continue reading The Road to Henry Coe Park, and Poppies →