Shaw's National Karate Institute | Pennsauken | Merchantville | Martial Arts | Karate

Just Because You Are Impatient Does NOT Mean I Have To Move Any Faster

2011-12-08T17:14:00.000-05:00

From the person who rides your rear bumper in traffic, honking their horn, or other people who loudly (and rudely) complain because the line that they are standing in is moving too slowly for them, there are some pretty impatient people in the world. And I am sure that you encounter your “un-fair” share of them every day.

In order to be a success in any endeavor you undertake you need to integrate the “art” of patience into your life.

If you do not know or understand what patience is here is one definition:

“The quality of being patient, as the bearing of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like.”

Another definition says patience is “an ability or willingness to suppress restlessness or annoyance when confronted with delay.”

Have we evolved into beings that have become so selfish and self absorbed that we have forgotten about our own self control? The ability to keep your mental, emotional and physical being, in check, requires self-control. The inability to do so is a sign that you are "out of control." When you easily lose your self control, you will most certainly fire off outbursts of anger, temper and blame on others.

Author Richard Rybolt said on the subject of patience, “There will be a time when loud-mouthed, incompetent people seem to be getting the best of you. When that happens, you only have to be patient and wait for them to self destruct. It never fails.”

Yep. And I saw it first hand while driving to work just the other day. The person driving in a green Jeep behind me just couldn’t wait. He drove close behind me, flashing his headlights for me to go faster, even though we were already doing the speed limit. Now, the police have been watching this road carefully over the last few weeks due to the amount of accidents and speeding cars. And, they have even parked an un-manned marked car in a number of spots to remind people to slow it down. However, “Mr. Impatient” could NOT wait. “Mr. Impatient” decides that he is going to pass me, and the road is marked with a double-yellow line. Now every person who has ever taken “Driving School 101” and passed their driver’s license test knows that you NEVER pass when there is a double yellow line, right? But “Mr. Impatient” was so self-absorbed and incompetent (when it comes to self mastery and self control) that he did not notice the police car that was following right behind him! As the police car’s lights activated and flashed like the grand finale of the “Pink Floyd Laser-Light Show” in his rear view mirror he pulled over to the side of the road.

It is the toughest, most challenging times of crisis that decide who the people of self (as in self absorbed) are and those of true power. Only the threat of disaster, ruin, and discrimination are some of the challenges in life that truly identify those with self control from those who are self centered and weak.

Develop a level of self awareness and wake up to the realities of life around you. As you develop or expand on your own “art” of patience, remember that everyone with whom you come in contact is busy working through their own struggles, weaknesses, setbacks, relapses, crises and obstacles to their personal growth and recovery. All of us are on the path to personal growth. There is no one exempt from this journey. It takes a lifetime to complete.

When you have developed your power, you will look upon incidents, such as having to stand in line or being late for work, in your life as comparatively insignificant. In comparison, the loss of your character and essence is the only happening which can really be called a calamity. When you have the power of your principles you are a calm, determined, in-control person under all circumstances - even when threatened with the loss of every possession, even to the loss of your reputation.

Keith Shaw (hey, that’s me) said in his book “The Power Of Serenity and Peace that “Tolerance is a characteristic of superior self control and patience is a hallmark of knowledge. When you maintain your unbroken calm amid all the duties and distractions of life you have found true power.”

Work on the “art” of patience within your self and you will find true power. And, hey “Mr. Impatient” man in the green Jeep, enjoy your traffic ticket and the points on your license. You could have better spent the money you will spend to cover the traffic fine by buying my book and learning the valuable life skill of patience.

http://www.856karate.com/

YES, WE CAN...NO YES WE DID!

2011-11-18T16:44:00.000-05:00

I am PROUD of all of our students and parents that opened their hearts and donated foods for our two-week long food drive.

I just dropped off, ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY POUNDS of foods at the Food Bank of South Jersey.

Great support of our community and a fine exhibition of Black Belt Excellence!

Thank you and have a phenomenal day!

Sahbumnim Keith A. Shaw
Owner and Head Instructor
Shaw's National Karate Institute
6704 North Crescent Blvd.,
Pennsauken, NJ 08110
School Phone: 856.330.4817
Cell: 609.636.0928
E-mail: shawskarate@856karate.com
Web: http://www.856karate.com/
Friend and follow us on Facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/ShawsNationalKarateInstitute

National Karate Institute - Team USA!

2011-11-15T16:05:00.001-05:00

Good luck to all NKI students who are competing for Team USA in Canada this weekend!

Do your very best and make us proud!

The Perfect Holiday Gift Is...

2011-11-14T19:49:00.000-05:00

Shaw's National Karate Institute Gift Certificates!

Order now for you or someone you love!

Certificates are personalized and can be made in any denomination!

Place your order now to have in time to stuff holiday stockings!

Shaw's National Karate Institute Supports Food Bank Of South Jersey

2011-11-03T08:04:00.000-05:00

2011 FOOD BANK OF SOUTH JERSEY

1 NOVEMBER - 18 NOVEMBER 2011

YES, WE CAN!

This November our karate school will support the Food Bank of South Jersey to help those less fortunate during the Thanksgiving holiday.

From now until Friday 18 November, please donate CANNED and other non-perishable foods such as canned soups, vegetables, fruits, meats, pasta, etc. to help those in need.

Please support our communities in this effort!

Donation boxes to deposit your contributions will be in the dojang!

Thank you and have a phenomenal day!

Sahbumnim Keith A. Shaw
Owner and Head Instructor
Shaw's National Karate Institute
6704 North Crescent Blvd.,
Pennsauken, NJ 08110
School Phone: 856.330.4817
Cell: 609.636.0928
E-mail: shawskarate@856karate.com
Web: http://www.856karate.com/
Friend and follow us on Facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/ShawsNationalKarateInstitute

Pennsauken Karate Students Compete at 2011 National Karate Championships

2011-09-02T09:21:00.000-05:00

Two students from Shaw’s National Karate Institute recently competed in the 2011 National Karate Championships held on Friday and Saturday, July 22 - 23 at Bally’s Hotel and Casino, Atlantic City, NJ.

Shaquan Henderson, of Pennsauken, competed in Traditional Forms, Breaking and Sparring. Shaquan had a tremendous day winning a First-Place trophy in Forms, First-Place in Board Breaking and a Second Place in Sparring. Shaquan is shown in the photo with his two first place awards.

Jaden Johnson, who also lives in Pennsauken, competed in Traditional Weapons, Forms, Board Breaking and Sparring. Jaden did an exceptional job in his first national tournament with a Third Place in Weapons, Third Place in Forms, as well as a Second Place in Breaking and a Third Place in Sparring. Jaden and Shaquan are shown in the photo getting ready for their respective sparring divisions.

Sahbumnim Keith Shaw, the owner of Shaw’s National Karate Institute said, “Shaquan and Jaden did a phenomenal job. Students come from all over the country to compete in the National Karate Championships and this year even had competitors come from as far away as Italy! Whenever you perform against a display of talent like this and in front of a large audience, it takes confidence, courage, determination and character. Shaquan and Jaden displayed a winning attitude, and did not quit! I am extremely proud of both of them for representing our school and demonstrating the mental and physical discipline and overall essence of what it means to be a Black Belt student at Shaw’s National Karate Institute.”

Shaw’s National Karate Institute is located at 6704 North Crescent Boulevard in Pennsauken, NJ and is part of the National Karate Institute in Moorestown, NJ - http://www.moorestownmartialarts.com/ . Shaw’s NKI has family-oriented programs for children and adults from pre-school age and up. Visit their website at http://www.856karate.com/ or call for more information on how to enroll in the school at 856.330.4817.

Shaw’s National Karate Institute Students - An Awesome Job At Tournament

2011-05-20T10:55:00.000-05:00

The Shaw’s National Karate Institute’s Tournament Team did an awesome job in the 8th Annual National Karate Institute In-House Tournament on May 14, 2011. The team of students competed against more than 125 martial artists from Burlington and Camden Counties to win trophies in their age and rank divisions.

Ninja Turtles Competitors (4-6 years old) – Adiel Fred and Aiden Roberts participated in their very first tournament! Adiel and Aiden competed in Sparring and Forms to capture trophies in both events.

Tigers / Dragons / Adults (7 years old and up) – Children, 7 years old and up, and adults also competed at the tournament winning trophies in Forms, Weapons and Sparring, some for the first time. They are (Pictured seated from left to right): Andre Hatcher, Jordan Davis, Amara Signorile, and John (J.T.) Henderson. Standing (left to right): Ashley Roman, Jaden Johnson and Shaquan Henderson. (Not pictured: Danny Hernandez, Destiny Hernandez, Kessler Pineda-Torrentes and Dylan Sharp). Of special recognition are Ashley Roman, who captured the 6-foot tall Grand Championship Trophy and Jaden Johnson who was the First-Place runner up in the Grand Championship.

Sahbum Nim Keith Shaw, owner of Shaw’s National Karate Institute said, “The students did a phenomenal job. And for some of them it was their very first competition. Whenever you perform in front of a large audience, it takes confidence, courage, determination and character. They all displayed a winning attitude, and did not quit! I am extremely proud of every one of them for demonstrating the mental and physical discipline and overall essence of what it means to be a Black Belt student at Shaw’s National Karate Institute.”

Shaw’s National Karate Institute is located at 6704 North Crescent Boulevard in Pennsauken, NJ and has family-oriented programs for children and adults from pre-school age and up. Visit their website at http://www.856karate.com/ or call for more information on how to enroll in the school at 856.330.4817.

Chick-fil-A Leadercast - Philadelphia

2011-05-02T18:49:00.000-05:00

http://leadercastjcc.eventbrite.com/

Friday, May 06, 2011 from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (ET)

Your actions mirror it. Your attitude reflects it. And it's so much more than what you say.

It is your leadership voice, and it is how you make a lasting impact.

Your leadership voice is how you inspire greatness and reinforce resolve. It can strengthen a fragile dream, or dash a sliver of hope. It alone can serve as the tipping point, reshaping one's character or redirecting another's path.

Your voice is a voice of change, and change creates new possibilities. That's why the purpose of Voices of Change is to help you demonstrate the power of change through positive leadership.

Are you ready to develop your leadership voice? Then learn more about Voices of Change and make plans now to attend the 2011 Chick-fil-A Leadercast.

WHY JUST BE AVERAGE...

2011-04-29T07:45:00.000-05:00

When We Make Your Child... Awesome!

· Better Academic Achievement

· Higher Self-Esteem, Focus, Confidence And More

· A Fit, Healthier Lifestyle

Shaw's National Karate Institute's curriculum will make a powerful, positive difference in all areas of your child's life - today and for their future.

We'll increase your child's levels of confidence, energy, and enthusiasm - like never before! You'll see your child become AWESOME!

· For a limited time, get your Introductory Course, a $29.99 Value! - FREE!

· Plus, you get your first uniform and a Student Knowledge Kit with DVD a $69.99 Value! - FREE!

· Great Family Plans!

· Summer Karate Camps Are Now Forming - Don't Get Left Out!

Sincerely,

Sahbumnim Keith Shaw, Owner

Shaw's National Karate Institute

Email: shawskarate@856karate.com

Web: http://www.856karate.com/

Summer Camp Information:

http://pennsaukensummerkaratecamp.com/

A Kickin' Great Time In The Summer, For Boys And Girls Ages 5-12.

2011-04-22T12:56:00.000-05:00

SUMMER CAMP RUNS FROM JULY 18 - JULY 29, 2011

Give your child a week they will never forget!

Partial (one hour per day) and Full (four hour) day camp programs are available!

Don't let your kids waste another summer watching T.V. or playing video games!

Kids don't mind attending our Summer School! Why? We make your child AWESOME. Our Summer Camp curriculum will make a powerful, positive difference in your child's life. We'll increase your child's levels of confidence, energy and enthusiasm. Plus, they will be on their way to a fit, healthier lifestyle.

They will be having fun while learning skills they can use in real life - The 4C's of Confidence, Control, Concentration and Character. And, preparing for challenges they will face the rest of their lives! Independent studies show that today's martial arts students achieve BETTER GRADES, get in LESS TROUBLE and are MORE MOTIVATED and MORE DISCIPLINED than your average kid. Shaw's National Karate Institute can make a positive difference in your child's life. Just ask any parent who has a child enrolled in our year-long programs. We teach so much more than just self defense!

It is not too EARLY to enroll your child! Call us today at 856.330.4817 or click on the email links and watch your child stand out from the crowd!

To learn more about our Pennsauken Summer Karate Camp programs and all of our children's and adult classes visit our school site http://www.856karate.com/.

IN OUR ONE-HOUR LONG PROGRAM, your child will experience a summer camp program that:

- will keep him/her physically active
- will teach them both physical and mental skills
- will enhance their self-confidence and self-discipline
- will increase their focus and attention span
- will teach them about respect and build their self-esteem
- will teach them how to be safe and avoid negative peer pressure
- will keep them wanting more each day!

Typical camp day includes: karate lessons to build confidence, concentration, control and most important of all CHARACTER! All kids will receive a Certificate of Accomplishment that they will cherish forever!

Limited Space Available - So Hurry! Call us at 856.330.4817 or click here to ENROLL YOUR CHILD at shawskarate@856karate.com. You can get additional info at http://www.856karate.com/.

Camp session is one week. Dates run from: July 25-29, 2011.

Daily Camp Hours: 5-7 year olds from 9:45am-10:45am; 8-12 year olds from 11am-12pm Monday to Friday

Early Bird Registration Begins NOW!

Fee - $30 / week session

IN OUR FULL, FOUR-HOUR LONG PROGRAM, your child will experience a summer camp program that includes all of the above, PLUS...

Typical camp day includes: Karate lessons to build confidence, concentration, control and most important of all CHARACTER! Karate-themed Arts and Crafts. Reading. Local visits to learn about fire safety and more! All kids will receive a Certificate of Accomplishment that they will cherish forever! Plus, they will participate in organized games to reinforce the karate lessons, role playing to be safe, daily discussions (stranger danger, verbal / physical / cyber bullying, etc.), pizza party on Friday, demonstration on Friday for parents (see what they've learned!), and much more!

Limited Space Available - So Hurry! Call us at 856.330.4817 or click here to ENROLL YOUR CHILD at shawskarate@856karate.com and you can get additional info at http://www.856karate.com/.

Each camp session is one week. Dates run from: July 18-22, 2011.
Daily Camp Hours: 10am - 2pm, Monday to Friday
Early Bird Registration Begins NOW!
Fee - $175 / week session

http://www.pennsaukensummerkaratecamp.com/

You Make Yourself Unhappy...

2011-04-15T08:19:00.000-05:00

“Simply put, you believe that things or people make you unhappy, but this is not accurate. You make yourself unhappy.” - Wayne Dyer.

The Power of Serenity and Peace: The Truth to Finding Happiness in Today's Stressed-Out World

Reviewed by Jeannette J. Jennis

"If you allow yourself to stay and rest awhile in that calm and serene place and meditate there, the eye of truth will open within you."

Shaw's book contains a quote from L. A. Rouchefolicauld: "When a man finds no peace within himself, it is useless to seek it elsewhere." As elusive as serenity and peace may appear to be in a stressed-out world, the author believes it is not only possible but also essential that both be sought and attained. Beginning with a daily meditation period, certain spiritually powerful words culled from the teachings of Gautama Buddha—love, compassion, happiness, impurity and serenity—help create a deep sense of calm.

Each challenging chapter asks the reader to explore ways of finding their own inner truth and is complemented by a separate workbook that further develops each chapter's theme. Practical, insightful lessons as well as physical exercises are provided that stimulate awareness of the interactions of "self" with others. By surrendering this personality "self" through various spiritual practices, along with a vigorous process of self-examination, space for greater understanding of one's true identity is created. Shaw believes that only by first acknowledging one's flaws, inconsistencies, and prejudices, can life-changing attitudes be achieved. Without a persistent willingness to control one's thoughts, actions, and reactions, along with a sincere desire to be of service to others, little progress will be made in attaining serenity and peace within oneself.

Both Shaw's book and workbook contain numerous quotes from famous teachers of like mind who embrace his conviction that a peaceful spirit leads to inner truth and wisdom or in Shaw's words: "This is peace, to conquer love of self and lust of life, to tear deep-rooted passion from the heart, to still the inward strife."

http://www.856karate.com/

http://www.cafepress.com/MBSCentral

The Power Of Thought - How To Get What You Want, When You Want It!

2011-04-13T09:49:00.001-05:00

Reviewed by Peter M. Fitzpatrick

"Dreamers are the saviors of the world."

If one is at all disposed to feelings of victimization, be it at the hands of other people, ones environment, or just plain fate, this book might be the cause of some discomfort. But that should not stop you from continuing to read this book or perform the exercises that accompany it in a convenient spiral notebook. It is the author's intention to shake you out of just that kind of self-defeating wallowing in negativity and justification. Shaw provides a set of concrete tools to help the reader/exercise-performer climb out of the mire of self-pity and learned powerlessness. Starting with mental activity and radiating outward into goals and purposes, the author rounds up a dense series of important points regarding the influence of attitudes and beliefs in shaping circumstances.

The strength of this easily readable work lies in its motivating influence to take action. By reading the short chapters in the text and then applying their message to your own life in the workbook, the power each of us has to take back control to achieve is internalized. The author gives added advice, such as the need to take risks, make sacrifices, and maintain the will to persist in the face of obstacles. The most salient point, however, is the realization that the solution lies within you.

With disciplined thoughts and a positive attitude, it is this author's belief that you can rise above any external limitation. Shaw provides techniques of both physical and mental meditation to help maintain serenity and health while you make the journey to self-realization. His easy-to-read style and concrete methods make repeated readings and practice both simple and doable.

http://www.cafepress.com/MBSCentral

http://www.856karate.com/

Congratulations To All Students Who Passed Their Belt Test

2011-04-13T09:44:00.001-05:00

Congratulations To All Students Who Passed Their Belt Test this Saturday, 09 April 2011.

Everyone did a great job and gave their all. Andrew Nguyen was the MVT for April. Again, you made us proud!

http://www.856karate.com

Congratulations To Students Promoted Today!

2011-03-12T16:06:00.000-05:00

Great job to all the students who tested today, 12 March 2011.

EVERYONE gave 100% effort and did not give up!

Jordan Davis gets extra kudos for being this month's Most Valuable testee!

I am proud to have you all as students and as part of the National Karate Institute Families!

Keep working hard!

Sahbumnim Shaw and Staff
Shaw's National Karate Institute
http://www.856karate.com

Ko Map Sum Ni Da (Thank You) For Your Support In Making OUR Schools A Family!

2011-03-09T12:03:00.000-05:00

For the last three weeks we have been spending a few brief minutes at the end of every class to freshen up the dojang. We just wanted to take a moment to review again why doing these few, simple tasks are important to all of us. The National Karate Institutes of Pennsauken and Moorestown are a family. A place where families and students come to learn skills for life and build friendships that last a lifetime.

As a Martial Arts Family we do the few minutes of clean up each day as a means of supporting each other and as an embodiment of our "FIVE CODES TO LIVE BY" that we use to begin and end class...

1) RESPECT - we show RESPECT for our school, our classmates and the next class coming on the floor by leaving the training area as it was before our class.

2) LOYALTY - it shows that we care for each other as a martial arts family and that we are TEAM PLAYERS.

3) CONFIDENCE - Instructors and Students build useful Skills For Life and foster a "CAN DO!" attitude.

4) RESPONSIBILITY - it is all of our RESPONSIBILITY whether we are Instructors / Students / Parents / Guardians to support and be there for each other.

5) HONOR - these few minutes help us grow a sense of PRIDE and accomplishment in ourselves and our school.

Again to all, thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Kwan Jang Nim Kim and Staff - National Karate Institute Moorestown
http://www.moorestownmartialarts.com/

Sahbum Nim Shaw and Staff - Shaw's National Karate Institute Pennsauken
http://www.856karate.com/

________________________________________

What Is Holding You Back?

2011-02-17T09:43:00.000-05:00

What is holding you back from getting the things you need?

You need to lose weight. You need to be healthy. You need to have a better outlook on life.

Your kids need to be more Disciplined. Confident. Focused. Motivated. Getting better grades at school.

They need the martial arts. And only the National Karate Institutes of Pennsauken and Moorestown can help.

You see, OUR PROGRAMS BUILD CONFIDENCE, FOCUS, RESPECT AND SELF CONTROL…

And, independent studies show today’s martial arts students earn BETTER GRADES, get in LESS TROUBLE, are MORE FOCUSED, CONFIDENT, DISCIPLINED and MOTIVATED TO SUCCEED than your average kid.

The National Karate Institute’s structured curriculum and classes will make a powerful, positive difference in your child’s life, today and for their future.

Just ask any parent who has a child enrolled in our programs.

"Thank God for truly making a positive difference in my children's lives. Karate reinforces discipline, confidence, humility, and respect." - S. J.

"Thank you! I have seen a positive change in my son since he started karate." - J. M.

“The teacher notified me today that she has not had a problem with Andre since he started Karate. He has changed 100%.” – S. H.

Do NOT let your children waste any more time watching mind-numbing T.V. or playing hours of video games.

Programs for kids and adults of all ages. ALL students participate and have fun all year long while learning valuable SKILLS FOR LIFE. No one ever sits on the bench!

Call us at 856-330-4817 (Pennsauken) or 856-866-8665 (Moorestown) RIGHT NOW for info on how to enroll!

Pennsauken Web http://www.856karate.com

Moorestown Web http://www.moorestownmartialarts.com

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! DON'T LET YOUR KIDS MISS OUT ON THE FUN IN 2011!

2010-12-24T09:42:00.000-05:00

If your child(ren) or you were enrolled in Shaw's Karate National Institute during 2010 you could have...

1) Learned A LOT of useful and practical Martial Arts skills,

2) Not to mention Skills For Life such as - Character, Concentration, Self Control, Confidence, How To Deal With Strangers, Bullies and More,

3) Seen a Free Screening of the new Karate Kid Movie before anyone else did,

4) Become a winner by Participating In Tournaments... (NKI Tournament, NAFMA Tournament, National Karate Championships, Conshohocken Karate Championship),

5) Helped your community by supporting our Family Service Food Drive and 2010 Pennsauken Holiday Parade,

6) Been a member of the Demo Team that performed at the 2010 Martial Arts Nights before the Camden Riversharks game,

7) Become a "Student Of The Month",

8) Become a member of our exclusive Weapons Club,

9) Made positive friendships in class and through awesome events such as "Practice In The Park", "Annual Summer Picnic", "Halloween Sleepover Spooktacular", "Parents Shopping Day Out" and others,

10) Had a TON OF FUN!

and SO MUCH MORE!...

PLUS, independent studies show that today's martial arts students get better grades, get in less trouble and are more motivated and disciplined than your average kid. Shaw's National Karate Institute's structured curriculum will make a powerful, positive difference in your child's life - just ask any parent who has a child enrolled in our programs. We teach so much more than just self defense!

"Thank God for karate truly making a difference in my children's lives. It is a foundation on which my children learn valuable tools that help not only in school but all around in every aspect of life." - S.J. (Parent)

"Thank you Sahbumnim Shaw, I have seen a positive change in my son since he started karate." - J.M. (Parent)

"In just a month, the teacher notified me today that she has not had a problem with Andre since he started Karate. He has changed 100%." - S.H. (Parent)

Don't let your child (or you) waste another long, cold winter watching television or playing video games, when they can get into shape, learn skills for life, deal with peer pressure and so much more! Call us right now at 856-330-4817 to enroll your child (or yourself!) and see your child (or you) grow and stand out from the crowd!

We Make It Easy To Get Started!

· Get An Introductory Karate Course (A $29.99 Value!) - FREE!

· And, You Get Your First Uniform, With Your White Belt, Patches And A Student Knowledge Kit With DVD (A $69.99 Value!) - FREE To Every New Student!

· We Have Outstanding FAMILY Discounts To Get Your Whole Family Fit, Strong And Healthy!

· Personalized Gift Certificates Also Available! Perfect For Holiday Gifts!

· And, There Are NO Registration Fees Or Upfront Fees - EVER!!!

Staying on Track During the Holidays

2010-11-20T12:55:00.001-05:00

With the holidays in full swing, one question people often ask themselves is, “How am I going to stay focused on health and fitness through the holiday season?”

It’s understandable that the extra temptation to cheat on your diet, the time spent doing fun family activities, shopping, and even just the stress of the holiday season can contribute to weight gain. So how do we combat this huge problem during the most festive of times?

Here are some ways to stay on track during the holiday season:

1. Instead of snacking on baked sweets, switch to a natural sweets like fruit to manage your sweet tooth.

2. With so many events, it’s important to plan an exit strategy that will get you home in time to get the recommended eight hours of sleep.

3. Drink plenty of water. The cool weather has a tendency to dehydrate and, sometimes, hunger pains can be a result of insufficient fluid intake.

4. Stay away from the break room, where team members often offer home-made baked goods and candies during this time of year. By avoiding the snack area where cheating can occur, you’re less likely to succumb to temptation.

5. Exercise your way through the holidays. By continuing to do even moderate exercise, you will increase your endorphin levels, which will eliminate the holiday blues and keep you from eating out of boredom.

6. Don’t increase alcohol consumption. It is recommended to drink two glasses of water for each alcoholic drink you consume.

7. Demonstrate portion control. For some reason people feel an obligation to over eat around holidays, but it’s not a requirement to indulge. By practicing portion control, you will not only feel better about your choice, but you will feel better physically.

8. Watching sports over the holidays is fine, but there is no reason to eat continually throughout the game. Instead of sitting in the recliner, try riding a stationary bike or walking on a treadmill.
Also eat healthier snacks.

9. Wash your hands more often; it doesn’t make you weird, it makes you healthy. Nothing is worse than getting sick during the holidays.

10. Check out your local martial arts school, like Shaw's Karate Institute, because it is a GREAT place to get in shape, build healthy habits, make friends and build skills for life!

Doing small things to maintain a healthier, happier lifestyle will make a huge difference in your life, especially during the holidays.

Courtesy of Jessy Norton

Nutrition News… “Are You A Bad Carb, Or A Good Carb?”

2010-11-15T08:48:00.000-05:00

Carbohydrates... You would think that from the ads on T.V., radio and billboards that these critical nutrients were poison. The truth is – you can not burn fat, think clearly or maintain a high energy level without them. And, for those of you who are starting on an exercise program, as well as those of you who are dedicated fitness fans, you NEED energy from carbohydrates to get the most out of your program.

A healthy, balanced nutritional plan for an individual with an active life style should consist of approximately 55% complex carbohydrates, 30% fat and 15% proteins. The problem is, is that most people get most of their carbs from processed foods containing bleached white flour and sugars such as high-fructose corn syrup.

It is not the carbohydrates that make us gain weight, it is the amount of CALORIES we ingest, relative to the amount of CALORIES we expend through our daily living (sleeping, breathing, thinking, etc.) and, of course, physical exercise.

Example #1, if I ingest 2,000 calories per day (55% complex carbohydrates, 30% non-saturated fats and 15% proteins) and expend 2,000 calories, I can typically maintain my weight at its current level.

Now let’s look at another example. If I keep the same lifestyle / level of activity and take in 10% more calories per day (or 200 calories) than I expend, over the course of about two and a half weeks, I will gain approximately one pound. By the end of twelve months, I have the potential of adding 20+ pounds of bodyweight!

You can see from this simple example that by just adding a small amount of extra calories in your diet you can, over time, add many pounds to your physique. And when you do, you will have a higher probability of hypertension (high-blood pressure), adult onset diabetes (Type 2), decreased HDL (the good cholesterol), more stress on your weight-bearing joints and other health issues. So, it pays to be intelligent when it comes to the caloric makeup and INGREDIENTS of what you are putting into your mouth.

Many popular diets would have you believe that you should get minimal carbohydrates (10% or less) with 45% (or more) protein and 45% (or more) fats! And your body metabolizes very little protein for energy!

People who embark on these diets (only fats and proteins) put themselves at great risk by subjecting their bodies to a state called “ketosis”. So what is “ketosis”? Ketosis is an abnormal condition caused by the incomplete breakdown of proteins into Ketones (which are related to Acetone, the main ingredient in nail-polish remover). Ketones are acid-like molecules that can cause death!

So how can you build better health, have more energy and still burn fat when eating carbohydrates?

One way is to eat whole grains, especially for the most important meal of the day - breakfast – as cliché as it sounds, it is absolutely true. Here are some of the recommendations that you can easily find at any grocery store. And these grains are great for those on wheat and gluten free nutrition programs.

Of course, we have all heard about Steel Cut Oats, but what about Quinoa, Millet or Buckwheat? Quinoa was used by the Incas and is still a staple food in South America. This whole grain is a complete protein grain and contains the following essential amino acids: Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Phenylalanine, Methionine, Threonine, Tryptophan and Valine. In addition, Quinoa includes the following non-essential amino acids Cystine and Tyrosine. One serving (1/3 cup) supplies only 134 calories and 3 gms fiber, 4 gms of complete protein and 23 gms of complex carbs to give you the energy you need to burn fat.

Millet in one serving (1/4 cup) gives you 150 calories and 4 gms of protein, 33 gms of complex carbs and gives 15% of your Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of Iron. These grains are versatile enough so that you can also include them in salads for lunch or dinner!

Check out a few of these unique grains at your local market today!

Copyright 2006 -2010 Keith A. Shaw and Shaw's Karate Institute

Nutrition Labels – What Is Missing From The Package?

2010-11-08T09:22:00.002-05:00

To maximize our health and fitness, ideally, martial artists should always strive to consume non-processed, fresh, organic foods. High on your list (the number one food group you should consume) should be fruits and vegetables, especially those high in fiber that not only supply you with essential nutrients, but also help to add water to your system and cleanse your body.

However, during the busy holiday season when you can’t (or maybe you choose not to due to time constraints and such) get your hands on non-processed foods; it is a good practice to become intimately familiar with deciphering the nutritional labels on packaged food products. As you’ll see, the labeling can confuse you with the “calories / grams” math.

Many times you’ll reach for a microwavable meal. In the U.K., (population 60 million people) it is estimated that $10 million dollars are spent on microwavable meals PER DAY. In the U.S. (population 300 million) obviously the number is far greater. On the left you’ll see an actual label from a Stouffer’s® Lean Cuisine® Salisbury Steak and Mashed Potatoes. Yep, I cut it right off the box and scanned it in. By the way, one thing that I like about this label is that it is multilingual. I was recently traveling in the Middle East, and packaging labels were in the native languages only! It was impossible to figure out the nutritional content…

So, let’s get started. The first area we’ll look at is serving size.

This package is a single serving, 280 calorie meal of meat and potato (a starchy vegetable) only – a vegetable that is not high on key nutrients or fiber, as per the Center of Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), Nutrition Action Healthletter 2002.

Fats, carbohydrates and proteins all have different caloric values. A gram of fat = 9 calories. A gram of carbohydrates = 4 calories. Protein = 4 cal. Calories from fat: 9 grams of fat x 9 calories per gram equals 81 calories. (seems Stouffer’s rounded it down). To get the percentage of fat in the meal take 81 calories of fat, divide by 280 calories for a total = 29% fat? Hmmm… must be some new kind of math! No, what they are doing is playing a numbers game. They are taking this “as a percentage of your total daily intake of fat GRAMS”, not of this meal (see the fine print at the bottom of the label). So, there is one red flag for you as to why these labels can be confusing.

Let’s dig deeper into the fat stats. There are different types of fat, as you see listed on the package; Saturated, trans, polyunsaturated and monounsaturated. Without getting into the chemical makeup of each type of fat, here is a quick overview. And also, be aware that this microwavable meal is lacking in “good” fats, with only 0.5 (one-half) gram of polyunsaturated and 3 grams of monounsaturated fats.

- Saturated fats: solid at room temperature; Linked to increased incidence of atherosclerosis and heart disease.

- Trans fats: all food labels must have these listed as of Jan 2006. If you have packages that do not have this listed, then you have some OLD food. Trans fats lower HDL (good cholesterol) and raise LDL (bad).

And the last two:

- Polyunsaturated fats: healthy fats, like Omega 3 and 6 that help you lower your blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular diseases.

- Monounsaturated fats: good fats; found in nuts and olive oil.

For a 2,000 calories per day diet (the average person) this meal supplies no Vitamin A or C (B is not even listed). Hence, in order to make this more complete, nutritionally, there needs to be at least one to two servings of vegetables (or a fruit as a dessert) added as side dishes. Recommendations would be those that are nutrient dense such as spinach, red bell peppers, carrots or broccoli to supply, not only nutrients, but also highly needed fiber.

When you do not consume a sufficient quantity of nutrient-dense vegetables and fruits, your body and blood becomes more acidic, rather than alkaline. The healthy pH level of blood falls between 7.35 and 7.45. Values that fall below these numbers (i.e., more acidic) lead to acidosis, which experts believe causes a number of life threatening illnesses such as arthritis, osteoporosis and even susceptibility to colds and flu — extremely important now that the season has changed.

One way you can easily check your level is using the pH indicator papers or strips like you used in high-school chemistry class. These are available through a number of stores on the web.

Take the paper / strip and touch to your tongue to wet it with your saliva. The paper will change color. Compare to the scale on the package to see if you are in the healthy range. I’ve recommended some good sources to educate you, but where can you get even more information?

There’s a website that you should take a look at with the new food pyramid from the U.S.D.A. at http://www.mypyramid.gov/.

I took the stats for the average person and plugged them into the website to get some information for you. For males and females, with physical activity of about 30 minutes per day requires at least 3 servings of vegetables and 2 fruits per day.

Statistics show that most people eat only one serving of a vegetable OR a fruit per day!

So, don’t just stop here with my article. Read labels. Become a more informed consumer. There’s a wealth of information at your fingertips on the web and in your local bookstore!

Copyright 2006 - 2010 by Keith A. Shaw and Shaw's Karate Institute

Soft Drinks: Non-Nutritional Beverages

2010-11-01T10:53:00.000-05:00

As a martial artist, you have a responsibility to take care of your self. Everything that you drink and eat, affects your performance, your mental state and physical health.

Did you know that soft drinks (soda, fruit drinks, sports drinks, etc) are the only foods definitively linked to obesity? And although consumption of soft drinks has declined for the first time in decades, the average person consumes a whopping 18 ounces of these empty calorie beverages per day!

That’s about 225 daily calories. If you consider that an “extra” 500 calories per day results in a pound of weight gain per week, it’s easy to see how these non-nutritional beverages can add on the pounds!

So what should you do if you consume these beverages? As with any dietary changes, “baby steps” of substitutions of more healthful choices is the key to creating lasting changes. Substitute non-caloric or lower-calorie options at every opportunity. Some suggestions are below.

Note: It’s almost impossible to make any of the home-made beverages below as calorie-dense as anything you buy in a store. The sweetener used commercially must have “shelf life” and stability when dissolved, necessitating the form of the sugar used, and the resultant calories.

If you feel you must buy soda, purchase it in a single serving size. This helps limit portion size, and eliminates the need to “finish the bottle before it goes flat.”

Suggested beverages:

• Homemade iced tea. Brew fresh tea and pour over ice. Add lemon. If sweetener is desired, add it to the hot tea so it dissolves better. Gradually decrease the amount of sugar used. Eventually you’ll have unsweetened tea that has tons of nutritional benefits and none of the empty calories!

• Homemade lemonade. Or better yet, lemon (or lime) squeezed into water.

• 100% juice mixed with (flavored) seltzer. Gradually increase the proportion of seltzer until you have seltzer with a splash of juice (or none at all). My kids’ favorite is vanilla seltzer with a splash of orange juice.

and the best of all...

• Water - nothing is better, straight out of the tap; bottled generic water; bottled “high scale” water (some taste better, some don’t…it is all a matter of preference, and perhaps “selling” it to yourself or your kids). Keep bottles on the counter for easy access, or bottles or a pitcher in your fridge to keep it cold; a water dispenser on your door fridge; a water cooler in your kitchen.

Find what works with your lifestyle and preferences to increase your family’s consumption.

Over 34 percent of American adults are obese and another 33 percent are overweight. The statistics are just as startling for kids, with 32 percent of children aged 2 to 19 being overweight or obese. Cutting down calories, especially these empty ones, couldn’t be more important.

So ditch the "quarter waters", the "vitamin waters", the "skinney waters" and sodas and take responsibility for your health.

excerpted from article by Jennifer Galea, MS, RD

Black Belt Pride - “If you are proud of whom you are, then you will work hard at being even better"

2010-10-22T08:50:00.000-05:00

You don’t need to be a black belt to act like one. A very important characteristic that black belts possess is pride. Black belts have pride in everything they say and do. They are proud of who they are and what they have accomplished, knowing that they have worked hard to achieve their goals. That is why black belts are so respected by others.

Black belts walk into the dojang with their heads held high. They do so not because they think they are better than others, but because they know how hard they had to work to get where they are, and they are very proud of it.

What are you proud of? You too can walk with your head held high because you are proud of yourself. You do not need to be a black belt to have pride. You simply need to work hard and make good decisions and good choices.

The pride you feel about who you are and what you believe gives you strength and confidence. Being proud means that you feel good about yourself. People with pride work hard at their jobs, study hard at school and even train hard at the dojo. People who work at being the best they can be succeed; others who don’t work as hard fail.

You will not be proud of yourself if you make bad decisions. Some people steal because they feel that to be accepted by others they need more possessions than they have. Some people lie because they feel they need to attempt or accomplish more in order to be accepted. If you are proud of who you are, what you have, and how you behave, you do not need to lie, cheat, or steal. The best part about pride is that in order to achieve it, you have already experienced the good things in life.

Black belts know how to walk away from unnecessary conflict. They know they are not walking away because they are scared, but because they have enough pride to keep out of trouble. That is the power of pride, and pride is something that cannot be taken away.

People with pride have better opportunities in life because they work harder. If you are proud of whom you are, then you will work hard at being even better. That is why those with pride gain so much respect from others. People with pride are also happier because they are satisfied. Just like a black belt, you can earn respect and become happier in life by taking pride in who you are and what you do.

Article by Joe Galea

Manners And The 7 Magic Words

2010-09-09T07:26:00.002-05:00

Unless you are planning to live like a hermit, in a cave and out in the wilderness, you are going to have to deal with people.

In fact, in my karate classes I asked my students what they aspire to be when they grow to adults. Lawyer, Marine, Zoologist and Nurse were just a few. All professions in which social interaction is key.

So unless you are the hermit type, here are the SEVEN magic words that you should make part of your daily interactions with others.

1) Yes, Sir!

2) No, Sir!

3) Yes, Ma'am!

4) No, Ma'am!

5) Please!

6) Thank You!

and...

7) You're Welcome!

When you practice good manners, it shows that you have respect for others and as a result, you are FAR MORE LIKELY to achieve the things that you want in life. You will be seen as a person of confidence and professionalism

Break the BAD habits of yeah, yup, nope, gimme and start using the 7 magic words.

You will be amazed at the results.

Copyright 2010 Keith A. Shaw and Shaw's Karate Institute, LLC.

Shaw's Karate Institute is the Premier Martial Arts school in Southen New Jersey. The family at Shaw’s Karate Institute is just that - A FAMILY. From the never ending support demonstrated by students for each other in every class, to the love, heart, and dedication shown by our instructors and staff to each and every student, the warmth and positive energy is felt as soon as you walk through the door. Shaw's Karate Institute proudly serves Pennsauken, Merchantville, Cherry Hill, Delair, Haddonfield, Lawnside, Maple Shade, Collingswood, Cinnaminson, Palmyra, Camden and other communities in Burlington County and Camden County. Come experience it for yourself!

The Responsibility Of Being On Time

2010-07-29T10:24:00.000-05:00

As Karate Students and Martial Artists, being on time is a vital element in your quest to Black Belt Excellence. Being at the right place at the right time is particularly important, as it shows Respect And Responsibility - two of our "Five Codes To Live By". In the martial arts or anything that you do or plan to do in life, you can not succeed if you are constantly late.

For example,

If you are late for a train or airplane, you must wait for the next one and may even have to pay more to buy another ticket. You may miss an important appointment or meeting. You can never get that lost time back again.
If you are late for the school bus, you will be late for school and will get detention. You will lose out on learning skills that will help you be a success in life.
If you are late for karate class, you miss out on valuable training that you need to grow to Black Belt.
And for adults, if you are constantly late for your job, you will eventually be fired and lose your job. Ouch!

When you are on time, or even better yet, when you arrive early, you show that you respect the people that you're meeting, and that you care as much about their time as your own.

It shows that you are diligent and dependable, and that you do what you've agreed to. It prevents you from interrupting or disrupting others whether they are in class, talking or working, by your late arrival.

Karate students and martial artists who truly want to succeed must ensure that they always respect others and are responsible. By being on time, you will go far in your quest to succeed.

Bowling Night To Support Chemotherapy Patients

2010-07-02T08:52:00.002-05:00

National Karate Institute will be having a Bowling Night to support Sam Keefer's Eagle Scout Project. It is a FUNDRAISER to benefit CHEMOTHERAPY PATIENTS.

It will be held at The Laurel Lanes Bowling Alley, 2825 Rt. 73 South, Maple Shade, NJ.

The date is Sunday, July 11th, 2010 from 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. and is only $20.00 per person. Includes 2 hours of bowling, pizza and soda!

Space is Limited - please call to reserve your spot! Parties of 3 or more can sponsor a blanket. See details below.

Unable to attend? Please consider sponsoring a blanket or Donating a No-Sew Fleece Blanket Kit. (60x72 inch kits can be purchased at Jo-Ann Fabrics.)

Fully Sponsored or donated blanket kits will be labeled with your name.

Register at the front desk to make a bowling reservation or donation by Friday, July 9th. Please make check payable to Sam Keefer. If you have any questions, please call Sam or Lynn (Sam's Mom) @ 856-914-9559. Or Email: Email: lkeefer44@comcast.net.

Please come out and support this worthy cause.

Ko Map Sum Ni Da! (Thank you).

Master Kim and National Karate Institute Staff. Phone 856.866.8665
Sahbum Nim Shaw and Shaw's Karate Institute Staff. Phone 856.330.4817

Shaw's Karate Institute Cardio Karate Classes Right Here In Pennsauken!

2010-06-28T12:14:00.000-05:00

Get Fit And Toned While Learning Self Defense!

And, You Won't Be Just Throwing Your Arms And Legs Around Like Most Kickboxing Classes Out There!

No matter what age you start (you are NEVER TOO OLD!), you can get fit and toned, while learning practical self-defense that works! You won't be just throwing your arms and legs around like most kickboxing classes out there. For you convenience, Cardio Karate classes at Shaw's Karate Institute are available in both the morning and evening. Classes are held two days per week.

This is an eclectic fitness class combining the benefits of aerobic and cardio kickboxing, while learning real martial arts techniques. Using pads, heavy bags and more you will get in the best shape of your life. You will also be doing LOTS of abs, glutes and flexibility work for additional strengthening and toning. Come try a class for free! Our instructors work very hard to ensure that most any situation you may encounter is covered in the classroom under very safe learning conditions.

To learn more about our all of our programs, camps and our children's and adults karate classes please visit our school site http://www.856karate.com.

Sahbum Nim Keith A. Shaw is the sole owner and President of Shaw's Karate Institute, LLC. He understands that each student's individual progress and success should be the main focus of his attention. He is an expert in the field of motivation and the power of the human spirit and has written 10 books, and is an internationally- and nationally-certified instructor. You can learn more about Sahbum Nim Shaw at our school site.

Students Of The Month At Shaw’s Karate Institute

2010-06-25T12:20:00.001-05:00

Every month at Shaw's Karate Institute we recognize and award students who are consistently demonstrating a black-belt level of EFFORT, ENERGY and ENTHUSIASM! This positive reinforcement helps to build confidence and self esteem, while motivating each student to do their very best.

The Students Of The Month are presented with a Student Of The Month Certificate personalized with their picture. They are also honored by having their pictures on the school’s "Wall Of Fame" for the entire month for everyojne who comes in the school (dojang) to see!

The Student Of The Month For April is Destiny Hernandez.

Serenity Sanders (Tigers Class 2), Jaden Johnson (Tigers Class 1) and Jose Rivera (Adults class) are The Students Of The Month for May.

You and your children can experience this same level of success, and build life skills for today and tomorrow, simply by contacting us for a FREE Introductory, two-lesson course. We provide a safe haven of positive energy and support for our student's mental, physical and spiritual growth through our student programs and the positive personal development skills they bring. PLUS, our students are having fun while learning skills they can use in real life - The 4C's of Confidence, Control, Concentration and Character.

Character development, that happens only through Martial Arts training right here at Shaw's Karate Institute, is one of the greatest benefits and gifts you can give your child AND yourself - for life. Call us today or go online to set up your appointment.

Shaw’s Karate Institute is located at 6704 North Crescent Boulevard in Pennsauken, NJ. Shaw’s Karate has family-oriented programs for children and adults, Summer Karate Camp programs and Cardio Karate for Moms and Dads who just want to get into shape. You can call for more information at 856.330.4817 or visit their websites at http://www.856karate.com/ or http://www.pennsaukensummerkaratecamp.com/.

Congratulations To All Students Who Tested - 12 June 2010

2010-06-14T10:50:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to all Shaw's Karate Institute students who tested for their first belt promotion, this Saturday, 12 June 2010. Everyone showed great Effort, Energy and ENTHUSIASM throughout the entire test!

Shown (L-R) Back Row: Shaquan Henderson, Jose Rivera and David Deleon.

Shown (L-R) Middle: Renee Tucker, Jaden Johnson, J.J. Rivera, Ryan Signorile, Jordan Davis, and Destiny Hernandez.

Shown (L-R) First Row: Tim Janiszewski, Tan Ton, Jr., Amara Signorile, Gage Patton and Kendall Vessels.

A special thanks to Kwan Jang Nim Kim, and the Sahbum Nims, from the National Karate Institute, who came on their free time to assist with the test!

We are very proud of you all!

Copyright 2010 Shaw's Karate Institute. Learn more about our school at http://www.856karate.com/ or our Summer Karate Camps at http://www.pennsaukensummerkaratecamp.com/.

Shaw’s Karate Institute Students Excel At National Karate Tournament

2010-06-08T07:20:00.001-05:00

The Shaw’s Karate Institute’s Tournament Team was outstanding in their first tournament on May 8, 2010. The team of students competed against over 120 other martial artists to win trophies in their age divisions, including the six-foot tall Grand Championship trophy.

The tournament team members are all from Pennsauken, Merchantville and Camden. They are, (from left to right), J.J. Rivera – 3rd place (7-8 years old), Amara Signorile – 2nd place (5-6 years old), Destiny Hernandez – 1st place and Grand Champion trophy winner (9 years and up), Danny Hernandez – 1st place (5-6 years old), Ryan Signorile – 4th place (7-8 years old), Jordan Davis – 2nd place (7-8 years old), Tim Janiszewski – 4th place (7-8 years old) and Jaden Johnson – 1st place (7-8 years old).

Sahbum Nim Keith Shaw, owner of Shaw’s Karate Institute said, “The students did a phenomenal job in the competition. Whenever you compete in front of a large audience, it takes courage, determination and character. I am extremely proud of ALL of them for demonstrating the mental and physical discipline and overall essence of what it means to be a Black Belt student at Shaw’s Karate Institute.”

Shaw’s Karate Institute is located at 6704 North Crescent Boulevard in Pennsauken, NJ. Shaw’s Karate has family-oriented programs for children and adults, Summer Karate Camp programs and Cardio Karate for Moms and Dads who just want to get into shape. You can call for more information at 856.330.4817 or visit their websites at www.856karate.com or www.pennsaukensummerkaratecamp.com.

Copyright 2010 by Shaw's Karate Institute, LLC

How To Spot A Martial Artist... It's Easier Than You Think!

2010-05-22T10:29:00.003-05:00

Independent studies show that today's martial arts students achieve BETTER GRADES, get in LESS TROUBLE and are MORE MOTIVATED and MORE DISCIPLINED than your average kid.

Shaw's Karate Institute can make a positive difference in your child's life. Just ask any parent who has a child enrolled in our programs. We teach so much more than just self defense!

Call us today at 856-330-4817 and watch your child stand out from the crowd!

SUMMER KARATE DAY CAMPS!

Kids don't mind attending our Summer School!

Why?

They're having fun while learning skills they can use in real life - The 4C's of Confidence, Control, Concentration and Character. And, preparing for challenges they will face the rest of their lives!

Don't let your kids waste another summer watching T.V. or playing video games.

Call 856-330-4817 NOW to enroll in our KARATE CAMPS!

Typical camp day includes: karate lessons, organized games, role playing to be safe, daily discussions (stranger danger, bullying, etc.), pizza party on Friday, a demonstration and belt presentation on Friday for the parents (see what your kids have learned!), and much more!!!

Limited Space Available - Only 20 students per session. No prior martial arts / karate experience required.

Each camp session is one FULL week, and will keep them happy and busy from 10 am until 2 pm each camp day!

Dates run from: July 19-23, July 26-30, August 2-6.

Daily Camp Hours: 10am - 2pm, Mon - Friday.

Free T-shirt before June 15th!

Fee - $150 / week long karate camp session

Call 856-330-4817 or email @ shawskarate@856karate.com for more info and to register today!

Copyright 2010 by Shaw's Karate Institute http://www.856karate.com.

Shaw's Karate Institute 2010 Karate Camp

2010-04-07T12:12:00.001-05:00

A kickin' great time in the summer!

For Boys and Girls Ages 5-11.

Give your child a week they will never forget!

At Shaw's Karate, your child will experience a summer camp program that:

- will keep him/her physically active

- will teach them both physical and mental skills

- will enhance their self-confidence and self-discipline

- will increase their focus and attention span

- will teach them about respect and build their self-esteem

- will teach them how to be safe and avoid negative peer pressure

- will keep them wanting more each day!

Typical camp day includes: karate lessons, organized games, role playing to be safe, daily discussions (stranger danger, verbal / physical / cyber bullying, etc.), pizza party on Friday, demonstration on Friday for parents (see what they've learned!), and much more!

Give Your Child The Gift Of Life Skills For Today & Tomorrow!

Limited Space Available - Only 20 students per session

Each camp session is one week. Dates run from: July 19-23, July 26-30, August 2-6.

Daily Camp Hours: 10am - 2pm.

Early Bird Registration Begins April 16th. Free T-shirt before May 14th!

Fee -$150 / week session. Call 856.330.4817 for more info!

Sincerely,
Sahbumnim Keith Shaw
Shaw's Karate Institute

Are You An "Al Bundy"?

2010-04-01T15:40:00.004-05:00

For over ten years, the show "Married With Children" outlined the trials and tribulations of one "Al Bundy". Al was a married shoe saleman, who had possibly the longest string of bad luck in recorded T.V. history.

Al's one shining claim to fame, was that he once scored "four touchdowns in a single (football) game". In high school. TWENTY PLUS YEARS AGO.

As much as Al was a likeable character. He was flawed. He lived his life firmly in the past. After all, his defining moment was long ago in his youth.

But, how about you?

Where do you live? Do you live in the past? Thinking about what was? Thinking about what you did then, and all the excuses as to why you are the way you are now? Quite frankly, I hear this type of "stinkin' thinkin'" on a daily basis.

For example...

"I remember when I used to do (fill in the blank) until...

"...I started smoking two packs a day..."

"...I had kids"...

"...I lost control of my life..."

"...I gained 100 pounds..."

"...I just gave up".

What you did or were 5, 10, 20 years ago, or in the days leading up to today no longer matters.

Stop making excuses and "get your head out of your past".

To truly be a success at any endeavor, reaching for your achievable, realistic goals, you must live and be in the moment. Not looking back.

The real question is...are you ready to do it?

Copyright 2010 by Keith A. Shaw

Which Kind Of "E" Are You?

2010-03-15T15:03:00.003-05:00

I'll bet that you never thought of yourself as a letter. Let your imagination run wild and think of yourself as the letter "E"?

Here, I'll help you. For example are you number one or number two...

Number One - Are you the kind of "E" that gives 110% Effort, Energy and Enthusiasm?

OR are ya...

Number Two - are you the kind of "E" that is laden with Excuses?

People who become the "E" in example Number One are the kind that can be counted on to get the job done time after time. They may not always have as much talent as the next guy or gal, but because of their "CAN DO" attitude they will find a solution to the problem. They will win everytime, while others will fail.

People who become the "E" in example Number Two are those who can always find the time to place the blame for their failure somewhere else or on someone. These people are what I also call the "should-a, could-a, would-a" types. They also tend to have big "BUTS"...

"I should-a been first in the competition, 'BUT' the judges were against me" - (it was probably your lack of preparation and practice)

"I could-a lost weight, 'BUT' my friends eat out all the time" - (it was because you never followed through on the nutrition plan that has sitting been on your kitchen table for the past two months)

"I would-a been on time, 'BUT' - (it was because you did not plan sufficiently)

Ask yourself what it is you are not getting done. Look at the excuses you make and you will clearly see why you fail, while the ones that put forth effort, energy and enthusiasm are successful.

Copyright Keith A. Shaw, Shaw's Karate Institute, LLC and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC

Grand Opening Was Huge Success!

2010-03-03T07:10:00.001-05:00

To Every One Who Attended The Grand Opening,

A huge Ko Map Sum Ni Da (thank you in Korean) to every one who attended the Grand Opening this past Saturday.

And, an extra special thanks to Kwan Chang Nim Kim and Kyosahnim Klingele for bringing the National Karate Institute demonstration team!

There are pictures posted on the Shaw's Karate Institute Facebook page right now at http://www.facebook.com/ShawsKarateInstitute

It was a great success!

To all students...if you did not receive your uniform and patches yet, please make sure that you arrive at least 30 minutes before your first class so that I can size you for your uniform and belt.

I look forward to seeing each and everyone of you at the dojang!

Sincerely,

Sahbumnim Shaw
Shaw's Karate Institute

P.S. We sure did eat a lot of hotdogs!

Shaw's Karate Institute Grand Opening Is This Saturday!

2010-02-24T15:35:00.000-05:00

Don't forget that our Grand Opening is this Saturday, February 27th, 2010 from 11 AM - 3 PM.

We'll start promptly at 11 AM, and you will not want to miss what we have in store for you...

11:00 - 11:30 - Welcome / School Tour
11:30 - 12:00 - Introduction of guests
12:00 - 12:30 - LIVE! Demonstration by the National Karate Institute Demo Team featuring breaking, weapons, sparring, forms exhibition AND MORE!
12:30 - 1:00 - Programs overview - Mini mites, Ninjas, Tigers, Dragons, Adults...
1:00 - 3:00 - Food, Questions and Answers

Don't forget that if you are one of the first 25 new students to enroll, you will receive...

#1) Your first uniform, patches and belt FREE!
#2) A FREE welcome kit with all your Beginner's level student materials!
#3) Your first's month's training FREE!
#4) And a special, limited time discount off the standard tuition rate!

So if you haven't RSVP'd yet, do so today at http://www.856karate.com/ or 856.330.4817.

Sincerely,

Sahbumnim Keith Shaw
Shaw's Karate Institute

Be Aware. Keep Your Eyes Up. And, Look Out For One Another.

2010-02-15T12:08:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends Of Shaw's Karate Institute..
It has been brought to our attention that multiple attempts have been made recently to abduct children in the area. Just this week alone three reported attempts were made by a man with the same description. The description given was of a white male, black curly hair, wearing a leather jacket and driving a blue suburban with NJ license plates. This person made attempts in Moorestown, Mt Laurel, and Marlton. The Saturday, 13 February 2010, Philadelphia Inquirer also reported on this.

Please talk to your children about stranger danger.

Also, when dropping off children at the dojang (or anywhere else), please make sure your child enters safely before driving away. Please inform your children to wait inside the dojang while waiting for rides as well.

Be aware. Keep your eyes up. And, look out for one another.

Outstanding Review Of My Book By Wendy Thomas

2010-02-06T11:01:00.000-05:00

The Power of Concentration:
How to Take Control of Your Life
by Keith A. Shaw
MindBodySpiritCentral.com
reviewed by Wendy Thomas

"It is the person that concentrates on every possibility that makes a masterpiece of both their work and life."

Inspired by the words of Theron Dumont--a leader in the New Thought Movement--this two book set includes a lesson book with an accompanying workbook.

In total, it gently takes you by the hand and teaches you to be aware of and overcome bad habits, improve communication skills by identifying blocks, and get what you want in life by focusing on your goals.

Concentration is the key to getting things done, and Shaw does a tremendous job in pointing out how a lack of concentration can sidetrack you and siphon energy from your true goals.

Written using a fun and conversational tone, he builds on the information presented in each of the sixteen chapters, while leading you through a series of exercises and insights that help you to recognize blocks in your life. After each lesson, you are instructed to do the associated exercises in the workbook.

For those who recognize the link between mind and body, they will know that these seemingly easy exercises can bring great results.

Modeling what is being taught, each chapter focuses on one aspect regarding the benefits of powerful concentration. The reader is initially led through a discussion on the theory of concentration, and in the later chapters, the reader is ready to focus on specific areas (courage, wealth, desires) where concentration is imperative for success.

A positive and gentle book, it reminds us all that we have much power over our thoughts and actions and if we focus on what we want out of life, chances are we can make great strides toward our goals.

Read the full review here at http://www.theusreview.com/reviews/Concentration-Shaw.html

ORDER HERE at http://www.cafepress.com/MBSCentral

Follow me at http://www.facebook.com/mindbodyspiritcentral

Copyright 2010 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral, LLC

Shaws' Karate Institute Grand Opening Special Offer!

2010-02-06T09:52:00.004-05:00

You And Your Family Are Invited On February 27, 2010!

SHAW'S KARATE INSTITUTE is coming to 6704 N. Crescent Blvd., Pennsauken. You are cordially invited to our GRAND OPENING from 11 AM until 3 PM.

At SHAW'S KARATE, you'll get...

• Skills For Life-Long Success,
• Mental And Physical Strength,
• A Feeling Of Confidence,
• A "Can Do!" Attitude,
• Pride In What You Accomplish,
• Laser-Sharp Concentration,
• Self Discipline,
• Self Control,
• Positive Values,
• And More.

Plus, you and your family will become phenomenally fit in a family-oriented and supportive environment.

If you are one of the first 25 students to sign up, you will receive...

• Your uniform, with your patches and your belt - FREE!
• Your first month's training - FREE!

To learn more about us and our programs, please call 856.330.4817 with the names and ages of those attending, and your phone number. Or email us with the same info at: shawskarate@856karate.com.

We look forward to seeing you! Classes will begin promptly on Monday, March 1st, 2010!

Dedicated to your success, we are:

Sahbumnim Keith Shaw, Owner and Head Instructor
Sensei Manuel Senquiz, Instructor

Website: www.856karate.com
Follow us on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/shawskarateinstitute
Follow us on Twitter @
www.twitter.com/shaws856karate

Copyright 2010 Shaw's Karate Institute,LLC and MindBodySpiritCentral, LLC

Thanks To Everyone!

2010-01-31T17:14:00.002-05:00

A giant thanks to everyone who helped paint or stopped by on Saturday. The dojang looks 1000% improved. Brighter, whiter and shiny! Only one month to the grand opening and open house, so still lots to prepare. Thanks AGAIN!

Copyright 2010 Shaw's Karate Institute

School Progress - Shaw's Karate Institute, Pennsauken, NJ

2010-01-27T20:02:00.004-05:00

The inside of the school is coming along very nicely now that the unusable stuff has been bagged and readied for disposal. I feel bad for the waste management guys...SORRY for the amount of trash!

The main training floor has been reconfigured into four large sparring rings. The secondary floor has been redone as well. My aching back...got any Advil???

Next...a fresh coat of white paint!

And new outdoor signage!

Copyright 2010 by Shaw's Karate Institute, LLC and MindBodySpiritCentral, LLC

Mind Body Spirit Central Books And DVDs NOW AT CAFE PRESS!

2010-01-24T10:35:00.003-05:00

All my powerful motivation, success, health and wellness products are now at http://www.cafepress.com/MBSCentral.

Take advantage of my free DVD offer when you purchase any of my Qigong Health And Wellness books.

Copyright 2010 MindBodySpiritCentral.com, LLC

Jeanette J. Jennis recently published a glowing review of my book, The Power Of Serenity And Peace...Here's What She Said!

2009-12-08T13:25:00.006-05:00

"If you allow yourself to stay and rest awhile in that calm and serene place and meditate there, the eye of truth will open within you."

Shaw's book contains a quote from L. A. Rouchefolicauld: "When a man finds no peace within himself, it is useless to seek it elsewhere." As elusive as serenity and peace may appear to be in a stressed-out world, the author believes it is not only possible but also essential that both be sought and attained. Beginning with a daily meditation period, certain spiritually powerful words culled from the teachings of Gautama Buddha-love, compassion, happiness, impurity and serenity-help create a deep sense of calm.

Each challenging chapter asks the reader to explore ways of finding their own inner truth and is complemented by a separate workbook that further develops each chapter's theme. Practical, insightful lessons as well as physical exercises are provided that stimulate awareness of the interactions of "self" with others.

By surrendering this personality "self" through various spiritual practices, along with a vigorous process of self-examination, space for greater understanding of one's true identity is created. Shaw believes that only by first acknowledging one's flaws, inconsistencies, and prejudices, can life-changing attitudes be achieved. Without a persistent willingness to control one's thoughts, actions, and reactions, along with a sincere desire to be of service to others, little progress will be made in attaining serenity and peace within oneself.

Both Shaw's book and workbook contain numerous quotes from famous teachers of like mind who embrace his conviction that a peaceful spirit leads to inner truth and wisdom or in Shaw's words: "This is peace, to conquer love of self and lust of life, to tear deep-rooted passion from the heart, to still the inward strife."

Read more at...

http://www.theusreview.com/reviews/Power-Shaw.html

Copyright 2009 MindBodySpiritCentral, LLC

Rave Review Of My Book, "The Power Of Thought"

2009-12-01T13:59:00.005-05:00

Reviewed by Peter M. Fitzpatrick

"Dreamers are the saviors of the world."

If one is at all disposed to feelings of victimization, be it at the hands of other people, ones environment, or just plain fate, this book might be the cause of some discomfort. But that should not stop you from continuing to read this book or perform the exercises that accompany it in a convenient spiral notebook. It is the author's intention to shake you out of just that kind of self-defeating wallowing in negativity and justification. Shaw provides a set of concrete tools to help the reader/exercise-performer climb out of the mire of self-pity and learned powerlessness. Starting with mental activity and radiating outward into goals and purposes, the author rounds up a dense series of important points regarding the influence of attitudes and beliefs in shaping circumstances.

The strength of this easily readable work lies in its motivating influence to take action. By reading the short chapters in the text and then applying their message to your own life in the workbook, the power each of us has to take back control to achieve is internalized. The author gives added advice, such as the need to take risks, make sacrifices, and maintain the will to persist in the face of obstacles.

The most salient point, however, is the realization that the solution lies within you. With disciplined thoughts and a positive attitude, it is this author's belief that you can rise above any external limitation. Shaw provides techniques of both physical and mental meditation to help maintain serenity and health while you make the journey to self-realization. His easy-to-read style and concrete methods make repeated readings and practice both simple and doable.

Read more at http://www.theusreview.com/reviews/Thought-Shaw.html

And save 15% or more on The Power Of Thought and any of my other books or DVDs.

Plus, you will get three FREE motivational CDs!

Attitude Of Gratitude...

2009-11-24T15:30:00.006-05:00

Now that the Fall season is into its second month, many people are thinking of and planning for Thanksgiving, the holiday.

However, "thanksgiving" is more than just a holiday. My trusty Webster's dictionary defines "thanksgiving" as; 1) "the act of giving thanks", or 2) "a prayer expressing gratitude".

It is your "attitude" of gratitude that I wish to talk about.

Depending on where you are in the world, gratitude has different connotations.
In the Western world, gratitude is indeed a positive emotion, which involves a feeling (e.g. we feel gratitude, feel grateful, etc) of emotional indebtedness towards another person.

This emotion is often accompanied by the desire to thank them or to reciprocate for a favor they have done for you. In a religious context, gratitude can also refer to a feeling of indebtedness towards a deity.

In the Eastern world, from a Buddhist point of view, the word which we translate in English as gratitude is katannuta.

The connotation of katannuta is rather more intellectual, more cognitive. It makes it clear that what we call gratitude involves an element of knowledge - knowledge of what has been done to us or for us for our benefit. Therefore, if we do not know that something has benefited us we will not feel gratitude.

As part of our mental, physical and spiritual growth, we must always be grateful; no matter how much or little we think we have or deserve. Without this quality, a person forgets his parents, relatives, friends, teachers and even the strangers we meet every day that need our help. If we are grateful we are sure to be happy.

And, research has suggested that feelings of gratitude may be beneficial to emotional well being (Emmons & McCullough, 2003).

Within each of us we have two masters; the Master of Self and the Master of Truth. The person who is ruled by the Master of Self isolates themselves by becoming wrapped in greed, selfishness and ego.

On the other hand, the person who is ruled by the Master of Truth lives a life of gratitude and makes for harmony and peace. He will always be remembered and loved.

My book, The Power Of Serenity And Peace, will help you find happiness and emotional well being. In a few short weeks, these powerful teachings and potent exercises will give you the truth to finding happiness in today's stressed out world and bring you more than you ever thought possible.

You find this and other powerful products to change your life - FOREVER - now only at our website: www.MindBodySpiritCentral.com.

Copyright 2009 By Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com, LLC

My Ginormous Power Of "One" - It's About Progress, Not Perfection

2009-11-17T13:19:00.005-05:00

One...it's not much.

A single unit.

Not zero, not two.

Just one.

In fact, the '70's band "Three Dog Night" once sang that "one is the loneliest number".

But, how can "ONE" make a difference? Sometimes it is hard, if not impossible, to visualize how it can.

Many years ago, I learned in my 7th grade science class that one little degree can make the difference between HOT water, at 211 degrees, and BOILING water at 212 degrees. Boiling water, at only one degree more than hot water will generate energy in the form of steam. When controlled and focused, that steam can be used to drive a turbine to generate an immense amount of power. One little degree does make an enormous difference.

One millisecond can make the difference between the runner who breaks the finish line tape to win the gold medal and the poor soul who finishes in second.

In battle, one millimeter can make the difference between life and death!

What about ONE PERCENT more? As in, what if you make a one-percent change in your life? For example, a one-percent improvement in the effort you put forth toward your personal relationship goals, professional relationship objectives, health, career or other thoughts, wishes and dreams that you have written out in your plans for the future? And, if you have not thought about 2010 yet, don't you think you better put a foot into it and get started?

At first, it really doesn't seem like much either, does it.

However, what if you make a one-percent change in your life...EVERYDAY?

Well, now you would be on to something big... exponentially big.

Here is what I mean by exponentially big. Let's say you take action every single day in the New Year to achieve a mere 1% change in your life. When you do, it leads not to a 30% change at the end of one month, but more than a 36% change! When you reach the end of month two you will achieve - more than an 80% change in your life and world!

So, you can imagine what phenomenal, positive progress you will have realized by this time next year when you harness my strategy of "The Ginormous Power of One"!

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com

And The Final Ingredient Is...?

2009-11-05T14:20:00.003-05:00

In the last few newsletters, I have shared my secret recipe and the ingredients you need in order to be the one, who will get the job done - everytime.

You learned about

#1 - Concentration
#2 - Humility
#3 - Integrity
#4 - Persistence and Passion

And, here is the final Ingredient #5 - Self Control and Self Mastery...

Gain control of your mental state, physical body and emotions. Remember that all three of these areas are affected by internal and external forces. Those with self control and The Power Of Concentration, have learned what to and what not to do.

Develop your self mastery skills. Those who have the ability to do what is required without needing to be poked, prodded or ordered to by someone else will win every time.

Paraphrasing Yoda from the Star Wars films, "Do, or do not, there is no try".

For more "secret recipes" on how to win at any game, no matter how challenging, see our website for our Motivation and Success Systems.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com, LLC

Persistence And Passion...Two "P"s You Need To Succeed!

2009-10-28T13:55:00.005-05:00

Here's the fourth ingredient(s) that you need to have in your arsenal to be the person that can be counted on when the "chips" are down...

Ingredient #4 - Persistence and Passion.

No matter how long the journey on your success quest. No matter how many potholes, detours, and other obstacles are in your way. Those who have the will to do and persistence to stay the course will win the game. It is said that Edison tried over 900 different components unsuccessfully before coming up with his working version of the light bulb. Edison also established the first "invention factory", which burned to the ground due to a chemical accident. When Edison was asked what he would do, he calmly said "We will rebuild".

Be tenacious. Persist.

Also, be passionate about what you do. Even when you must do things that you do not like! A client of mine, when recently instructed to do a task, did it very well. He was focused. He gave 110% effort. When I commented on how well he was doing he said, "I really do not enjoy doing this task. However, I know that it must be done, and I need to put 110% effort into it, regardless of whether I enjoy it or not".

Now, THAT'S passion!

Next up on the list...ingredient number 5. Nope, you have to wait until the next newsletter to find out what it is.

In the meantime...

In honor of tonight's first 2009 World Series baseball game between the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees,

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE MINDBODYSPIRITCENTRAL TRIPLE PLAY OFFER!

ORDER ALL THREE OF MY MOTIVATION AND SUCCESS SYSTEMS FOR ONLY $59.99 (A $79.99 VALUE)!

Note: Credit will appear on your credit card statement, not at checkout. Includes The Power Of Concentration, The Power Of Thought and The Power Of Serenity And Peace.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com, LLC

Do You Have...?

2009-10-21T12:22:00.003-05:00

In my last two newsletters, I gave you the first two ingredients to build your very own supply of CHIPS. What were they? That's correct - Concentration and Humility.

Here's ingredient number three

Ingredient #3 - Integrity.

You will begin to develop the "power" leading to habits of success within you when you gravitate to a higher and calmer consciousness based on a foundation of ethical and moral standards and principles.

This is integrity.

Stayed tuned for the last two ingredients to help you be the person that can be counted on, no matter how challenging the circumstance, when the chips are down.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com, LLC

"H" Is For Humility

2009-10-19T13:07:00.004-05:00

To play and win in the game of life you must have C.H.I.P.S...

Last week I told you about ingredient #1, Concentration, in my time-tested “secret recipe” to help you whip up your very own, boundless supply.

Here's my second ingredient - Humility

Achieving success in any of your dreams, goals or wants, has nothing to do with drawing attention to your achievements or abilities.

In fact, some of the most successful people in the world, such as a Nelson Mandela, Mother Theresa, Bill Gates or Warren Buffett are neither boastful nor ostentatious. In fact, they exude a quality of deference towards others, helping them and encouraging them in their time of need.

Remember to let the “self” go, and do what needs to be done ONLY because it is the right thing to do, and for no other reason.

Period.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com, LLC

"C" Is For Concentration

2009-10-14T13:37:00.005-05:00

You may have heard or made this statement before, “You can always count on him or her, when the chips are down”. If you made the statement, it was because you knew that the person would get the job done, no matter what the odds or the obstacles.

Here’s my time-tested “secret recipe” to help you whip up your very own, boundless supply of C.H.I.P.S. that will help you become the kind of person who can be counted on time and time again - by your boss, friends, family and others.

Ingredient #1 – Concentration

Olympic Gold Medal Winner, Edwin Moses said,

“My concentration level blocks out everything. Concentration is why some … are better than others.”

By supreme effort of your concentration and determination you CAN change your whole life and accomplish miracles.

You CAN be that person that everyone counts on.

You alone CAN decide when the “tipping point” in your life will come.

When you develop a concentrated “will to do” you will always find a way or make one.

Copyright 2009 Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com

I Triple Dog Dare Ya…

2009-10-12T12:27:00.001-05:00

…to step out of your “comfort zone”.

But, it’s pretty frightening, correct?

I’ll bet, you’re saying to yourself right now, “I just CAN’T do it. I’m nice and safe and comfortable right here in my little cocoon, isolated from all the bad things in the world - even though I wish I had more love, or better personal and professional relationships, or a fulfilling, successful career, or more wealth, better health, a full, rich life…”

Or maybe you are saying…

“I’m too SCARED…”

“It’s too RISKY…”

“I might F-A-I-L…”

If you never step out of your comfort zone, how on earth will you ever know what you could have possibly achieved in your life? How will you ever learn anything from your triumphs as well as your mistakes? How will you grow as a person and live your life to the fullest?

And, if you do not, you will most certainly come to a point in your life when you look in the mirror and say to your reflection…

“I should-a…”

“I could-a…”

“I would-a…”

When in actuality the cold, hard truth is - You DIDN’T!

Break the chains that are currently holding you back from what you really want in life. You must belief that the word IMPOSSIBLE was not intended for you! Build up in your mind the confidence that will enable the mind to use its power.

For example, get out of bed in the morning and do something that you never have done before. Or, instead of avoiding an issue, face the challenge head on. Or, take action on your goals, dreams and thoughts, instead of just wishing and hoping that they will happen.

I triple dog dare ya…

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC.

Wait A Moment? No BE The Moment

2009-10-06T11:44:00.003-05:00

It seems no matter who I talk to lately, they are either living “dangerously” in the past or wishing and hoping for “something” tomorrow.

While it is always a sound strategy to have a well thought out and documented plan for the future, you must invest time in the moment before you can ever move ahead in your life.

The Buddha said, “If we could see the miracle of a single flower clearly, our whole life would change”.

When was the last time you looked at anything with pure, open eyes and an unblemished spirit? When was the last time you slowed down and felt a warm feeling of happiness, serenity and peace?

There is a way that you can find serenity, peace and happiness in today’s stressed out world. There are some outstanding books available today that will help you to awaken your self and expand your awareness of the world.

You were born into the world with an innocent mind and a pure, unblemished, open spirit. You had no prejudice, no preconceived notions, no anger or fear. But, over time, the pressures and opinions of society clouded your eyes and mind to others.

REMEMBER, WE ARE ALL FROM THE SAME PARENTS…

In 2006, a world-wide study was sponsored by National Geographic, IBM and others that captured DNA data from tens of thousands of volunteers. The analysis of the data determined that all human beings, no matter where they live today, what their status in life is, or their color, race and religion, are descended from two individuals in the East Central area of Africa that lived only 60,000 years ago. Just as a frame of reference, the Earth is 4.54 BILLION years old. They have been able, through scientific DNA analysis, to identify key genetic markers that show how the offspring of these two individuals, our ancestors, migrated across the planet.

In conclusion, the results show that we are all from the same “parents”. Yet we continue to gravitate toward beliefs that are selfish and self centered instead of showing empathy and compassion to others.

BUT WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO PEACE, LOVE AND UNDERSTANDING?

In the world as we know it, happiness, serenity and peace are elusive treasures. Stress, anxiety, and increased rudeness in society are piled on you and weigh you down, suffocating you. You are bombarded with bad news by the media twenty-four hours a day about violence, crashing economies, stories of genocide and prejudice. Not to mention the ongoing threat of terrorism.

No matter what happened in the past or your current circumstances, age, wealth, current status in life, you can start on a journey through simple meditation, selfless love and service and find your own serenity, peace and happiness in today’s stressed out world.

It is said that Michelangelo saw in every rough block of stone a thing of beauty awaiting his master hand to bring it into reality. Even so, within each and every one of us, there sleeps a divine image awaiting the master hand of faith and the chisel of patience to bring it into view.

When you experience serenity you will be serene, calm and free of storms.

You will have freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions, harmony in personal relationships.

The power of your spirit will be immense.

Wasted Days And Wasted Nights…

2009-09-29T13:28:00.002-05:00

I'm talking about the wasted time watching the endless stream of drivel that comes out of your television screen. And, it really doesn't matter if it is a jumbo 50" plasma screen with surround sound or whether you stream it online from your laptop computer.

Wasted time can never be recovered.

For example, let's take "reality" shows. In fact, two more (which I will not honor here) are in the process of being heavily promoted on air, in the newspapers and in online pop up ads. One unfortunate truth about these types of programs is, once the cameras are rolling, the reality stops.

However, a much more SERIOUS critical truth is that studies have demonstrated that too much television causes brain rot. A large study in Australia proved the "brain rot" statement to be true - too much television causes marked memory loss. The study, which involved 30,000 people, involved a memory test of the recall of names, lists, faces and signs.

People who watched LESS THAN one hour of television per day had high scores. Those who watched MORE THAN one hour per day did not do as well on the memory tests.

The researchers believe that passive television watching does not intellectually stimulate the mind. In fact, many shows do not stimulate critical thinking at all.

This study supports what I have been saying for years.

However, I'll bet that many of you will say, "Television is my only escape from my crappy life - the economy, my job or my sex life". Well, please do me a favor, don't blame the economy or your job, or complain about your wife or husband. They are not the cause of your crappy life.

Every moment you place blame or waste time bitching about anything, is one less moment you use to take positive and progressive actions to improve yourself.

The choices you make, the books you read, the people you associate with, the actions you take or don't take not only impacts your life, but also impacts the lives of those around you.

I once heard that the only thing even in everyone's world is the number of minutes, 1,440 of them, in each day. It doesn't matter if you are a Bill Gates, a Nelson Mandela or a factory worker.

The difference between people who are most highly effective and happy in life and those that are merely average (or less) is what you do with those minutes. And, unfortunately lost minutes do not rollover, like those in your mobile phone plan.

When you learn habits of highly effective people, even the little things that you used to complain or blame others about will be a thing of the past.

In fact in the Motivation and Success System, "The Power Of Thought", there is an entire chapter on how to improve your life titled "How Your Thoughts Affect Your Circumstances". In this book there are powerful and effective strategies to help develop the goals for you to get what you want, and create the life you deserve.

But, most people go at their goals with a very a hit-or-miss approach. They haphazardly set a goal, often with poor follow through, or they simply procrastinate taking action.

Procrastination is the known as the thief of time. It robs you of valuable opportunity for growth and improvement. If you take the time now to do a progress update on yourself, by measuring your actual results for the year so far, you may be very disappointed.

My encouragement for you is to review how you have spent your time this year and your results so far, then look for ways to improve the use of your time and results you produce for the rest of the year.

When you aim to improve yourself, you must remember that your changes will influence others to improve as well. When your life becomes more positive and rich, it becomes a model of excellence for others.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com

Concentrate Or You May Suffer Dire Consequences!

2009-09-29T10:48:00.003-05:00

There is a British public service announcement (PSA) that has caused quite a stir on YouTube. The PSA shows the consequences of not concentrating while driving a car. You might have seen it.

If you haven’t, not only does the lack of concentrating on the task at hand have tragic results for the driver and her passengers in the 4 minute mini-movie, it also impacts the lives of others – both adult and infant.

Now, one could debate that this just melodrama from overzealous filmmakers. However, just recently, a similar event happened in my area. A driver, reaching for the electronic device that she dropped, ran off the road. The car sped up on the sidewalk, killing one person and critically injuring a second. The driver was also injured as the car then hit a brick wall.

This is why concentration is so critical. Without it you allow yourself to get into catastrophic situations such as those in the examples above. Concentration leads to self mastery making your actions deliberate, well thought out and directed by your intelligence. Every time you do not concentrate, you fall behind on what you planned to do and, you lose a lot. That precious time (or life) is gone forever.

Taking control of one's life begins with one simple, powerful idea: The act of concentration.

But how?

In the critically-acclaimed success system, “The Power of Concentration:
How to Take Control of Your Life” you will learn about the potency of concentration and how it can transform a life - into a life force.

Whether you want to stop smoking, lose weight, get a better job or find the secret to success. In this system, you will learn:

• Why concentration is the silent force that produces results;

• How to gain and accomplish more through concentration than through physical labor;

• How concentrated thought links all humanity;

• How to train your "will to do";

• And how you can overcome lack of self control and courage, bad habits, forgetfulness, and more.

Filled with timeless and important life lessons and strategies, the two-book system includes inspirational quotes, effective exercises, and more to help you build laser like concentration and take control of your life.

Remember this, scattered rays of light, when concentrated and focused by a magnifying lens, produce power and heat many times greater than the light alone. This is also true of your attention. If your attention is not focused you get ordinary results. But center and focus it on one thought and you will increase its strength manifold.

Build laser-like concentration by ordering The Power Of Concentration today.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com, LLC

Your Mother Is Calling You...

2009-09-22T14:40:00.003-05:00

In the Northern Hemisphere, the Fall season is typified by brightly colored foliage in many parts of the world. The changing leaves give us a kaleidoscope of colors that stimulate our eyes. At the same time, the Spring season in the Southern Hemisphere is typified by brightly colored flowers.

But what about some of our other senses, for example, the sense of smell, touch, and hearing? Truly getting in touch with nature can help you concentrate and increase your mental power.

Concentration increases all of your senses, including the sense of smell. The inability to identify the smell of lemons, lilac, leather and other smells predicts which people will develop Alzheimer's Disease - according to a study presented recently at the American College of Neuro Psychopharmacology's annual meeting.

It is estimated that world-wide the number of people with Alzheimer's will increase 238% over the next 30 years! In the U.S. alone it is the third costliest disease after heart disease and cancer!

So you can see how critical it is for you to concentrate.

How can you build your powers of concentration? In The Power Of Thought and The Power Of Concentration Systems there are a gold mine of potent and practical exercises you can do. Let's look at this one exercise - nature.

When you take a walk outside in a park or garden and breathe fresh air, study vegetation,trees, and the surroundings, take the time to stimulate all of your senses.

S-l-o-w the pace of your walk and truly immerse yourself and meditate in the splendor of nature. Take along a journal or notebook and write down what you experience.

Sight - Concentrate and identify not only colors, but also the various shades of colors on the leaves on the trees and those on the ground. Observe and study the animals getting ready for Spring after the long winter.

Smell - Pick up leaves, soil and branches from the ground and concentrate on smelling the aroma. Certain tree branches when broken will give you a sensory delight.

Touch - Feel the veins in the leaves, the texture and softness or brittleness.
Hearing - Listen to the leaves crunching under your feet. Listen to the sounds of animals, water in any streams nearby and the wind.

Take and use nature as an exercise to improve your mind power. For more information, see our website, http://www.mindbodyspiritcentral.com.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com

The Most Important Thing You Need To Do Everyday

2009-09-22T11:52:00.003-05:00

What is the most important thing you need to do everyday?

Is it going to the coffee shop for a “triple mocha loca boca coffee with whipped fat” on it?

Is it checking your email at 6:00 a.m.?

Is it spending time on “Facepage” to check on your 537 faux friends?

If you haven’t figured out that the answer is a resounding “NO”, then you may not make it through the rest of this newsletter.

It is breathing. Without breathing in life-giving oxygen, in only three short minutes, you lose consciousness. As time elapses further brain damage occurs and next thing you know you are standing at the pearly gates (or for you naughty people – not so pearly gates!).

However, the great majority of people do not breathe correctly. Why do you think there are so many stressed-out, anxious, nervous and panicky people? Maybe even you.

When you learn to breathe correctly and deeply you positively affect the areas of your brain that enhances your motivation, lowers your idle speed and anxiety level, improves your health and mental focus and lessens depression. Correct breathing also stimulates the areas of your brain that mediate pleasure and ecstasy – ooh la la!

What is the secret to breathing correctly? Qigong…

Qigong has been practiced throughout China, Korea and other Asian countries for thousands of years and continues to be practiced daily in parks, schools, gyms and at home. In visits to Asian countries, I always see groups of people, young and old, women and men, congregating at sunrise to do their Qigong exercises.

Qi means “breath or gas” in Mandarin Chinese and is the energy produced by breathing that keeps us alive; gong means “work or technique”. Qigong is then the "breath work" or the art of managing the breath to achieve and maintain good health and to enhance the energy mobilization and stamina of the body in coordination with the physical process of respiration. Unlike other physical exercises, such as weight lifting, aerobics or running, Qigong can be done everyday.

Qigong involves the coordination of different breathing patterns with various physical postures and motions of the body. The gentle, graceful movements, combined with controlled breathing and meditation make Qigong an ideal health and fitness program for women, men and children of all ages.

With Qigong exercises you can balance and enhance your mental, physical, and metabolic functions — your mind, body and spirit. You can learn to concentrate on and control your breathing which is an important component of the relaxation response; so very critical in combating and managing stress. And, you can strengthen your immune system for a longer, healthier life.

Order today…

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com, LLC

think small

2009-09-17T12:33:00.004-05:00

Last time, I talked with you about people who when faced with bad times or hardships throw in the towel and give up. They let the disappointment and discouragement from the experience take over and resign them to failure.

Let's contrast those versus the man or woman who is persistent.

This man or woman takes action. They realize that their attitude affects their future. They never let the negative thinking that may result from bad days to become a long-standing habit.

It all comes down to what I call - THE ATTITUDE OF YOUR MIND. The attitude of your mind affects many things including the expressions of your face, determines the actions you make, impacts your physical health and regulates your life.

At this point many of you, especially those who are "set" in your ways, may ask: "How can I change the attitude of my mind? How can I, after months and years of discouragement and of going through the motions, suddenly conceive and carry out a plan for doing something that will change my current situation and make my life more rewarding?”

The answer is that it can be done, and others just like you have done it.

Even if you consider yourself of AVERAGE ability, you can be successful, independent, free of worry, and be your own master, from this point forward, if you can commit to do these two things.

1) Remain forever dissatisfied with what you are doing and your situation today. In other words, shoot for the moon.

2) Develop in your mind a belief that the word IMPOSSIBLE was not intended for you. Build up in your mind the confidence that enables the mind to use its power.

Bette Reese once said, “If you think you are too small to make an impact, try going to bed with a mosquito in the room”.

So in conclusion, here’s the moral of my story to you…

Thinking small DOES matter. It is STILL up to you, to make an impact.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com.

Will You Stay Down For The Count, Or Get Up And Fight Another Day???

2009-09-15T12:42:00.004-05:00

No matter who you are, or what your current situation is, there are going to be many days and times when you feel that nothing is going in your favor. Just like you, I certainly have had my fair share of them.

It may be just one bad day. Perhaps you had a flat tire on the way to work that made you late for a very important meeting. You then were reprimanded by your boss. You then took it out on your subordinates or loved ones later when you arrived back home.

Or it may be a string of many, many bad days and events that make you feel that the entire world and everyone in it is out to get you. Perhaps you lost your job. And, then a close, loved one passes away. Next, something that you have spent long hours working hard to achieve has not turned out like you planned. In fact, you may feel that the bad times are never going to end!

Everyone has trying times. Especially now.

In my neighborhood, the local gas and service station closed down after over 20 years in business. Businesses have furloughed hundreds of employees many of which have worked for their company for years.

When faced with these types of circumstances, many people simply give up. They let the disappointment and discouragement from the experience take over and resign them to failure. Instead of looking ahead, they wallow in an endless sea of negative thought and emotions. They end up swimming against the tide instead of going with the flow and looking for a way back to the safety of dry land.

However, it is the person who has a strong and resilient “will to do” that does not allow these negative situations to have any long-term effect on them – at all. In fact, the person with a strong and developed “will” applies these situations to their advantage – learning, growing and building a new foundation and direction from them.

They know that from time to time they will have bad days. However, unlike the people who give up, they are persistent. They take action. They realize that their attitude affects their future. They never let the negative thinking that may result from bad days to become a long-standing habit.

Look within yourself and apply the lessons you learn from your bad days and events to your advantage. If you get knocked down seven times, then you must get up eight times.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MBSC.com

Is Your “Altitude” Determined By Your Attitude?

2009-08-13T14:54:00.004-05:00

Are you currently where you want to be in life?

Do you have control over your life?

Are you getting what you want out of life?

Are you winning, (or losing)?

If you can not answer “YES” to any of the four questions above then perhaps you need to take a good look in the eyes of the reflection in the mirror (yes, I mean you!)

I will bet the problem is your attitude. Not just for today, but for tomorrow and the next day, and so on. It all comes down to what I call the “attitude of your mind”. The attitude of your mind affects many things including the expressions of your face and impacts your internal and external physical health – it controls and regulates your entire being.

And there’s more. Your attitude determines and fuels your actions. You must realize that every action you take, no matter how big or how small, defines everything that you achieve in life. If you want to lead a great life, you have to take great actions.

As you prepare yourself to take great actions and steps toward what you want everyday, you must begin to condition your self to always having and maintaining a great attitude.

Think how much better you would be at everything you do, if you had a great attitude toward life. For example, if you practiced being respectful to others, no matter how they treat you, you become more respected.

If you practiced looking for the good in others, you would begin to attract more of the good in others. If you practiced smiling more often, you will see more people smiling back at you.

Anything you do repeatedly becomes a habit - either good or bad. There are some people that have conditioned themselves to be cynical and negative. They always question things and doubt things will work as planned. They tend to be very pessimistic and would be considered a naysayer.

At this point many of you, especially those who have painstakingly built your life around negative habits like those above may ask: "How can I change the attitude of my mind? How can I, after months and years of discouragement and of going through the motions, suddenly conceive and carry out a plan for doing something that will change my current situation and make my life more rewarding?”

The answer is that it can be done, and others just like you have done it.

Even if you consider yourself of AVERAGE ability, you can be successful, independent, free of worry, and be your own master, from this point forward, if you can commit to do these things.

1) Remain forever dissatisfied with what you are doing and your situation today.
2) Develop in your mind a belief that the word IMPOSSIBLE was not intended for you.
3) Build up in your mind the confidence that enables the mind to use its power.

Instead of negativity, which is a reflection on your self, what if you tried these attitude adjustments? Imagine that every time you got out of bed to face the day, you said “YES” with an eager and enthusiastic attitude. Every time you met someone you looked for the good in them. What if you spent more time thinking about what you do want, rather than what you don’t want?

You must condition your attitude everyday for making it a great day. By doing this, you'll soon develop great habits that will have a positive impact on both your personal and professional life.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com, LLC

Why Do You Feel Like A Zombie???

2009-07-23T11:43:00.003-05:00

The market for insomnia drugs is booming. In fact, it is expected to grow 78 percent by 2012.

Being chronically sleep deprived makes you feel more than just a ZOMBIE. It can also lead to increased stress and high blood pressure.

Studies have demonstrated that stress leads to emotional issues, such as a lack of concentration and substance abuse. It leads to relationship issues, for example needless arguments and domestic violence. And, causes physical symptoms such as high-blood pressure, back pain and sleep disorders.

In fact the National Sleep Foundation estimates that one-fifth of the population, nearly double the number eight years ago, sleep less than six hours per night!

And, according to recent estimates by the American Heart Association, nearly 1 in 3 adults have high blood pressure. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack, heart failure or kidney failure.

So, you can see why the drug makers are happy to create more and more drugs and chemical-laden products to heavily medicate you, empty your wallet and WITHOUT SOLVING YOUR PROBLEM!

Here's My Drug and Chemical-Free SOLUTION...

The Power Of Qigong For Stress Relief program relaxes your mind and body to release your stress, improve and calm breathing, and strengthen your spirit.

The DVD along with the book gives you step-by-step information and close ups of each movement in the exercises. After a "cleansing breath" warm up exercise, you will practice and learn the incredible "Stress Relief Qigong" exercise that will help to control, lower and maintain a healthy, stress-free mind, body and spirit. As you do the exercises you will enter a state of calmness and serenity. In addition the soothing, yet very effective movements in the "Stress Relief Qigong" exercise will help your flexibility, to remove pain, by gently loosening your joints and increasing your equilibrium. Your body will move in all directions - lightly moving up, down, pushing, pulling, turning and massaging - on the way to better health, fitness and wellness.

Next, you'll move on to the section "Breathing Exercises" to further reduce your stress, letting your tension melt away.

And to wrap it all up, further relax with the "Meditation" exercise. Meditation is one of the leading means to relieve stress, increase your ability to focus on your plans and thoughts for success and improve your overall health and well being.

Order and get your very own copy of The Power of Qigong For Stress Relief DVD and book NOW! If you order the Power Of Qigong For Stress Relief and Qigong For Circulation or Qigong For Concentration, I'll ship them to you for free!

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com, LLC

Finding "Balance" In Your Life...

2009-07-10T13:11:00.004-05:00

The day of the Equinox, at the end of June, brought the "light" and the "dark" into perfect balance. It is one of the few perfectly-balanced days when we have exactly 12 hours of sunlight and 12 hours of darkness.

What does your life look like? Do you have a balanced life?

For example, Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism and many others teach the value of a balanced life.

For those who are not familiar with these teachings, perhaps you may remember the timeless Yin-Yang symbol shown at left - Female and male; Dark and light; Water and fire. No matter which example you take from the Yin-Yang symbol, it's still about balance.

The "Wheel of Life" (shown below) is a tool that can help you see if the life you are living is balanced. Is your "Wheel of Life" round and would it turn smoothly? Or is it more of a square?

The Wheel of Life exercise covers such areas as your social life, health, spirituality and more. When you take an unbiased, honest look at your current situation, The Wheel of Life exercise will allow you to see if your life is balanced.

The Wheel Of Life

2009-07-10T13:05:00.003-05:00

First, print out a copy of the Wheel.

Then, begin by placing a dot on each line, and rate how much time and energy you put into that area of your life. The center of the circle is equal to zero and the outer edge of the wheel equals 10. The closer the dot is to the edge of the circle the more time you dedicate to that area. When you have finished, draw a line to connect the dots...is your wheel round? Will it roll? Or is it flat or even bumpy on some sides?

Take time to reflect and think about how the ratings of certain areas affect your life and what you want out of life. Look at areas where you are happy and also those that need attention in order for you to make progress.

Develop a plan to smooth out the "flat" spots on your wheel. THE POWER OF THOUGHT System, available now is an excellent book to help you get what you want out of life, when you want it. Order your book and free exercise book - today!

Take Years From Your Life By Multitasking

2009-06-19T13:01:00.002-05:00

Everyday I see more and more people trying to do five things at once. Case in point, the guy in the car next to me:

1) driving at 65 mph,
2) and talking on his cell phone,
3) while smoking a cigarette, and
4) drinking his coffee and
5) fixing his hair in the rear-view mirror.

Most of us think that having the ability to do several things is a gift or a blessing that helps up to get more done in less time. But the truth is that you can drive yourself crazy while trying to multitask and obsessing over every little problem.

In fact, when you are “multitasking” you are not truly concentrating or focusing on any of the things that you are doing. Your attention span is actually about zilch.

And, with the advent of text messaging, instant messaging, Twitter (why do they call them Tweets and not TWITS?), e-mail to your phone, laptop, etc., you are using up your precious mental power.

Studies have indicated that over your lifetime, your brain has a FINITE amount of processing power and the ability to focus your attention. So you have an important decision to make, my friends. Do you REALLY wish to waste your limited, precious mind power on email or sitting on the couch watching one endless reality show after another (yawn!) or “Facepage”?

So how do you maintain your power of concentration and mind power to give you laser-like focus?

The first way is through meditation. Eknath Easwaran once said, “Through meditation and by giving full attention to one thing at a time, we can learn to direct attention where we choose.” As many of you may be unfamiliar with or just learning to practice meditation for the first time, it is a good idea to find a quiet area in your home where you can remain undisturbed for 10-15 minutes. As you become more skilled at meditation and mindfulness, you will eventually be able to do it during your daily activities. Even if your work is “repetitive” you can meditate while doing it. Jacob Boehme, the German philosopher, realized his vast knowledge of divine things while working long hours as a shoemaker. In every life there is time to meditate and think. In fact, we all have exactly same amount of minutes available to us, 1,440 of them, everyday. Do not let your busy, hectic schedule exclude you from meditating.

The second exercise is concentration in breathing. Breathing has many benefits, not only the improvement of health but also a calming effect. Breathing exercises help you to develop more physical power and more life. Practice inhaling long, deliberate deep breaths. Stand up straight and breathe in through your nose (your mouth is shut) while counting slowly to five. You can close your eyes if you wish. Focus and concentrate on filling the bottom third, then the middle third and then the top third of your lungs. Hold your breath for a count of seven and then exhale until you can not breathe out any more air (i.e., all the air is out of your lungs). When you are exhaling, focus on emptying your lungs from the top first, that is, top to bottom. Do this exercise for five to ten repetitions, at least once per day. Slow, deep, prolonged inhalations and exhalations are of tremendous value. When you feel stressed and your heart is pounding, your circulation is not regular. When your lung action is uneven, the mind becomes unsteady and not fit for concentration. This is why controlled breathing is very important as a foundation for physical health and mental concentration and development. Practice, practice, and practice some more…

The third way is to concentrate on your most critical goals for the next day for 10-15 minutes before you turn in before the night. What you want to do is focus on just the OUTCOMES, not the intricate details. Let your subconscious mind work as you sleep and you will find yourself awakening, ready to hit the ground running. I have found this to be a sure-fire way to set the “tone” and direction for my daily activities.

Turn off the iPod, switch off your cell phone and turn off the television and other electronic devices. Work on building your power of concentration for a longer, healthier life.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC

What Is Your Destiny?

2009-06-03T13:57:00.003-05:00

Experts agree that practically all of our daily behavior is habitual. Habits make or break us to a far greater extent than we ever would like to admit. Habits can be both a powerful enemy and wonderful ally.

In fact Ovid, the Roman poet who lived 2,000 years ago, said “Nothing is stronger than habit”.

Your life is a mass of habits that irresistibly draw you toward your destiny. Practical, emotional, and intellectual, your habits are systematically organized for your benefit and detriment. You must learn to overcome habits which restrict and injure your future or destiny and to cultivate those which increase it.

Habits have often been called a “labor-saving invention” and are formed through repetition. After they are formed, they require less mental and physical strength to accomplish everyday tasks. Whether good or bad, anything you do over and over again will become a habit. The more deeply the habit becomes engrained, the more automatic it is. In other words, most of what we do everyday is as if we were on “auto pilot”.

If it were not for our habits, we would have to be more observant of our environment. For example, when you walk across a crowded street, the habit of stopping and looking both ways prevents you from getting run over by a bus. Therefore, the right kinds of habits keep us from making mistakes and mishaps. Habits also mean less risk, less fatigue and greater accuracy.

The majority of people are controlled by, and operate in certain ways because of the power of habit. They seldom think of concentrating on why they have certain habits, or study themselves to see if they could make improvements in their lives. The good news is that you can literally re-program yourself for greater success in any area of life. By building your Power of Concentration, you can increase your awareness and focus on developing good habits.

Positive and successful habits create positive rewards. For example, if you want to enjoy a healthy, energetic and long life, you must have positive, healthy habits. Good nutrition, daily exercise and a positive attitude have proven to have an influence on longevity and quality of life.

Negative habits lead to negative consequences. If you have negative health habits, sooner or later, you will pay the price. The results of negative habits may not show up immediately, but they will appear. People who smoke cigarettes don't die from their first cigarette, but millions of people die every year from this habit. In fact, an acquaintance of mine recently died alone from a heart attack, due to a life-long smoking habit. When he was found a few hours later, the cigarette he was smoking was still in his hand – burned down to the end!

Whether you develop positive or negative habits all comes down to what I call – THE ATTITUDE OF YOUR MIND. The attitude of your mind affects many things including the expressions of your face, determines the actions you make, impacts your physical health and regulates your life.

The first thing to realize is that all habits are governed both consciously and subconsciously by your will. Most of us are forming new habits all the time. In fact, studies have demonstrated that on average it takes about twenty-one days to form a new habit. By the same, it takes twenty-one days to break a habit and change your pattern of behavior. Of course, the longer you hold onto that habit, the stronger it grows and the more deeply it becomes embedded and a part of you. The good news is, you can still make or break any habit by strong concentration. People just like you and me do it every day.

At this point many of you, especially those who are "set" in your ways, may ask: "How can I change the attitude of my mind? How can I, after months and years of discouragement and of going through the motions, suddenly conceive and carry out a plan for doing something that will change my current situation and make my life more rewarding?”

The answer is that it can be done, and others just like you have done it.

Even if you consider yourself of AVERAGE ability, you can be successful, independent, and free of bad habits from this point forward, if you can commit to creating a desire to change within you, develop goals and concentrate on achieving those goals that will absolutely lead to new positive, productive habits.

For example, to become healthy and fit, develop goals and habits that lead to better health and fitness.

Or as another, if you want to improve your finances study and develop habits that lead to greater wealth and financial freedom.

Start today and improve your future. No one but yourself is responsible for your habits. When you realize the importance of forming the right kind of habits, what a different world you will have for yourself.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and MindBodySpiritCentral.com, LLC

Who Ya Gonna Call? STRESS BUSTERS!

2009-04-10T14:22:00.004-05:00

In my last article on 27 March 2009, “Stressful Times”, I shared with you how stress can lead to a number of negative health and emotional problems, such as relationship issues, needless arguments, weight gain, high-blood pressure, sleep disorders, panic attacks, rapid heart beat and more. Well, it looks like I hit the nail right on the proverbial head with that one.

In the last week alone, I have seen several articles addressing the same subject. In one of them, Pam Belluck of the New York Times shared some interesting insights and statistics from experts.

1) Anxiety, depression and stress are troubling people everywhere, as they worry or react to pervasive uncertainty,

2) Therapists and psychiatrists are seeing more and more first time patients,

3) In an American Psychological Association poll from September, 80 percent of those surveyed said the economy is causing significant stress, up from 60 percent six months earlier,

4) The National Sleep Foundation reports that 27 percent of people surveyed have experienced sleeplessness as a result of stress, and

5) The National Suicide Prevention hotline reports that calls have increased by over 27 percent from January 2008 to January 2009!

In good times, even when it seems that nothing can or will go wrong in your daily life, you and everyone else experiences stress in some way or another. But not everyone chooses to let it affect him or her in the same way – especially in the tough times as we see now. Unfortunately, many people, both children and adults, are reaching for anxiety medication, alcohol, food or take out their frustration in anger directed at someone close at hand.

Here are some additional tips on how to handle and manage your stress level.

First, be sure to eat “intelligently”. Be smart and eat a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, true whole grains, low fat dairy, lean meats or fish and healthy unsaturated fats – stick to those that have been processed as little as possible. Eating a pure, healthy diet will give you the nutrients and energy you need to manage stress. Limit processed foods of all kinds, even those, commercially produced or those from the “fad diet plan of the month” that proclaim to be healthy. Many of those processed “fad diet plan” foods you see in commercials and the internet have just as many sugars, sugar alcohols, chemicals and ingredients in them as a “Pop Tart” pastry.

Next, be patient and slow down. Too many people try to cram in way too much for their days, leaving them overwhelmed. Prioritize your "to do" list and don't feel bad if you have to cut something out in order to slow down. Use your energy wisely and be productive, don't waste energy on unnecessary things.

Third, take time to relax daily. Relaxation should be part of your every day routine. And, give yourself the permission to do something that relaxes you. When you find yourself in a stressful situation, concentrate on your breathing by taking deep breaths and notice how much more relaxed you feel. As you become more calm and relaxed, your heart rate will slow. Qigong for Concentration is an excellent way to learn breathing and meditation exercises that can bring you to a calmer state of mind. The gentle, graceful movements of Qigong and meditation, combined with controlled breathing exercises make it an ideal program to improve men’s health, women’s health and children of all ages – they are even great exercises for senior citizens.

Fourth, do some physical exercise every day. Exercise does wonders for stress reduction. In fact, Qigong for Stress Relief is a perfect way for you to reduce back and joint pain, improve your health with breathing exercises and of course - blast away your stress. Qigong is the "breath work" or the art of managing the breath to achieve and maintain good health and to enhance the energy mobilization and stamina of the body in coordination with the physical process of respiration.

Finally, get at least seven hours of sleep. There is absolutely nothing that worthwhile on television that should compel you to stay up until midnight, or later, to watch. Calm down before bedtime with Qigong for Beginners and candles. As you listen to the soft music allow your mind to be quiet and at rest as you relax and do the exercises. And to wrap it all up, relax even further with the “Meditation” exercise. Meditation is one of the leading means to relieve stress, increase your ability to focus and improve your overall health and well being.

Living a stress-free life is critical to your overall health and well being. Experience the power of Qigong.

Each DVD comes with a free book that includes additional stress busting information!End Your Stress. Feel Calmer. Be Happy!

GET FOUR FREE GIFTS IF YOU ORDER TODAY! I will include:

1) My 33 tips on how to organize your life and REDUCE STRESS - at no charge - along with

2) 3 Motivational CDs and…

3) Order two or more Power Of Qigong DVDs (any title) and I will also take 10% off the price!

Stressful Times Need A Stress-Busting Remedy

2009-03-27T14:36:00.003-05:00

No matter where you live in the world, there is plenty to get stressed out about. For example, the Nikkei, DAX, FTSE and Dow have constantly been like a roller-coaster ride. One day the markets are up. The next day it’s crash and burn time. People are unemployed in record amounts. Others are afraid to do anything in the event that they may be next in the unemployment line. In the U.S. there happens to be another source of stress – tax time! Yes, the April 15th deadline is fast approaching.

And, don’t forget about the everyday stresses like your career, taking care of yourself and your family and even your commute to work! Yes, even that “honk honkin’, finger flippin’ road rager” causes you to be stressed out.

The problem is that stress can and does negatively affect your health – both mentally and physically. Studies have demonstrated that stress leads to:

1) Emotional issues, such as a lack of concentration and substance abuse, relationship issues, needless arguments and domestic violence,

2) Studies are showing that stress also causes unwanted weight gain. With obesity approaching epidemic numbers in many countries, who needs the extra pounds,

3) Plus, there’s the physical symptoms such as high-blood pressure, back pain and sleep disorders!

In fact, according to recent estimates by the American Heart Association, nearly 1 in 3 adults have high blood pressure (hypertension). Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to stroke, heart attack, heart failure or kidney failure. Doctors recommend weight loss and regular exercise as the first steps in treating mild to moderate hypertension. But, perhaps you do not want to join a gym or work up a sweat. Or you have physical limitations that prevent vigorous exercise. Or, you have just slowed down as you got older.

Here’s my “secret” stress buster that I will share with you – Qigong.

Qigong is thousands of years old and involves the coordination of different breathing patterns with various physical postures and motions of the body. Qi means breath or gas in Mandarin Chinese and is the energy produced by breathing that keeps us alive; gong means work or technique. Qigong is then the "breath work" or the art of managing the breath to achieve and maintain good health and to enhance the energy mobilization and stamina of the body in coordination with the physical process of respiration. The gentle, graceful movements of Qigong and meditation, combined with controlled breathing exercises make it an ideal fitness program to improve men’s health, women’s health and children of all ages – they’re even great exercises for senior citizens. As humans, our Qi energy is at its peak in our late teen years, 18-20. As we age, we lose a little of our energy, year after year. It is only through continued practice of Qigong that you can increase your Qi energy and vitality to build physical and mental strength, help fortify your immune system, relieve stress and speed recovery from injury for a longer, healthier life.

The Power Of Qigong For Stress Relief program relaxes your mind and body to release your stress, improve and calm breathing, strengthens your internal organs and can help to lower your blood pressure. Evidence suggests that reducing your blood pressure by just 5-6 points can:

1) Decrease the risk of stroke by 40%,

2) Decrease the risk of coronary heart disease by 15-20%, and

3) Reduce the likelihood of dementia, heart failure, and mortality from vascular disease.

Ask yourself these questions…Are you overweight? Do you exercise at all? Do you currently need drug therapy to bring your blood pressure down to a safe level? Is your boss and lifestyle driving you crazy?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, then The Power Of Qigong For Stress Relief is for you!

After a “cleansing breath” warm up exercise, you will practice and learn the incredible “Stress Relief Qigong” exercise that will help to control, lower and maintain a healthy and stress free level. As you do the exercises you will enter a state of calmness and serenity. In addition the soothing, yet very effective movements in the “Stress Relief Qigong” exercise will help your flexibility, remove pain, gently loosen your joints and also improve your balance and equilibrium. Your body will move in all directions — lightly moving up, down, pushing, pulling, turning and twisting — on the way to better health, fitness and wellness.

Next, you’ll move on to the section “Breathing Exercises” to further reduce your stress, letting your tension melt away.

And to wrap it all up, further relax with the “Meditation” exercise. Meditation is one of the leading means to relieve stress, increase your ability to focus on your plans and thoughts for success and improve your overall health and well being.

Living a stress-free life is critical to your overall health and well being. Experience the power of Qigong. Each DVD comes with a free book that includes additional stress busting information!

End Your Stress. Feel Calmer. Be Happy!

GET FOUR FREE GIFTS IF YOU ORDER TODAY!

P.S. Order The Power Of Qigong For Stress Relief and I will include my 33 tips on how to organize your life - at no charge - along with 3 Motivational CDs.

P.P.S. Order two or more Power Of Qigong DVDs (any title) and I will also take 10% off the price!

What Is Inside Of You? Peace and Happiness? Or Stress and Turmoil?

2009-03-18T16:04:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, I saw Jack LaLanne on a television program. Yes, the 94-year old fitness expert and inspiration to millions and millions of people is still going strong. In the closing remarks for the interview, Jack left his audience with the following thought. “You are responsible for everything you do - both on the outside and also inside of you.”

But what is inside of YOU? It is said that Michelangelo saw in every rough block of marble a thing of beauty. And with his vision and master hand he would carefully bring it into reality. And just like that rough block of marble, within each and every one of us, there sleeps a marvelous image awaiting the master hand of faith and the chisel of patience to bring it into view. When that marvelous image is revealed and realized it manifests itself as pure and selfless love.

Pure and selfless love is not always easy to find, but it is there. It is hidden deep in every human heart, and is frequently covered up with a hard and almost impenetrable fortress. It is the truth in man. It is that which is real and enduring. All else changes and passes away. To realize this love by continuous effort and practice of goodwill to others, to live in and become fully conscious in it, is to enter into a state of serenity, peace and happiness.

To fully understand the lesson I want to leave you with you must first understand the difference between human love and divine love.

Human love clings to material objects while excluding everything else. The attachment becomes so strong that when a material object is taken away or denied, the result is great and deep suffering. For example, look at all the people who are so attached to their iPods, cell phones, as well as overpriced coffee drinks that they will literally just “die” without them. If you want some real-life examples, just turn on any “Judge (insert name here)” television show! You will see people suing each other, left and right, over inanimate, material objects!

In contrast, divine love is distinguished from human love in this supremely important way - it is free from partiality and prejudice. On the subject Mother Teresa said, “If you judge people, you have no time to love them.”

What is more, divine love embraces the whole universe without clinging to any part of it. Those who achieve divine love come to it by gradually purifying and broadening their human loves until all the selfish and impure elements are removed. Because human love is narrow and confined and mingled with selfishness it causes suffering. No suffering can result from divine love as it is so absolutely pure that it seeks nothing for itself.

To reach, understand and experience this love, you must work with great persistence and diligence upon your heart and mind. Benjamin Franklin said, “Energy and persistence conquer all things.” You must be patient and keep your faith strong. As with a sculptor’s block of marble, there is much to remove and much to accomplish before the beautiful image inside the marble block is revealed.

When you strive to reach and to achieve both patience and wisdom, expect to be challenged along the way. And, it is absolutely necessary that you are. A couple of things to expect:

1) Realize that no one arrives there on the first attempt, and
2) At times, as you proceed, all your work will seem to be futile.

Now and then a setback may discourage you, and perhaps when you think your work is almost completed and you have been successful, you will find what was imagined to be the beautiful image that is divine love did not appear. When this happens, you must tap into your indomitable spirit, and begin again with your prior learning and experiences to guide and help you. You must also recognize that there is no such thing as defeat. All failures are deceptive and not real. Every slip, every fall, every return to selfishness is a lesson learned. Gain from your experience and utilize the failures as stepping stones on your pathway to higher things.

These failures are like guiding voices that tell you plainly and simply where you are weak and need improvement. When you begin to carefully watch your actions, you will learn from your experience what you need to work on, and what needs to be removed out of your heart to move closer to the goal of selfless love.

As you proceed each day, you will gradually detach yourself from your inner selfishness. The love that is selfless will gradually become revealed to you. For example, when you are growing patient and calm, your anger and irritabilities pass away from you and the more powerful negative desires and prejudices cease to dominate you. It is then you will know that the divine is awakening within you. You will draw nearer to the eternal heart and selfless love, the possession of which is peace and serenity.

There are effective tools and exercises to help you develop the beauty of divine love within yourself in my book, The Power Of Serenity and Peace - The Truth To Finding Happiness In Today's Stressed Out World.

GET FOUR FREE GIFTS IF YOU ORDER TODAY!

P.S. Order The Power Of Thought or The Power Of Concentration and I will include my 33 tips on how to organize your life - at no charge - along with 3 Motivational CDs.

P.P.S. Order both systems and I will also take 10% off the price of your books!

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC

Concentration Is The Cure For Tough Times…Part Two

2009-03-10T12:43:00.002-05:00

In Part One of this article, I shared my five-step attitude adjustment plan. In part two of this article, I’ll share more on why concentration is so powerful and I include an inspirational story that I hope will get you off of your behind and working on taking control of your life through the power of concentration.

Every one of you who is willing to invest your time in learning to concentrate and focus can be a success. The investment, of course, is not in money, but in effort. Many times it is the 90 / 10 rule that gets it done: “Success is achieved by 90 percent perspiration and 10 percent inspiration”.

But, the FIRST essential quality for success is the desire to do - to achieve something.

The SECOND is to learn how to do it.

And the THIRD is for you to take the appropriate action needed for you to succeed!

It has been said that “If you want to get something done, give it to a busy person.” Do not look at how little you can do, but how much you can do. In life, the busy person will always be in demand, for they establish the reputation of being a “can do” person.

To reach the top of any endeavor it pays to be focused, determined, confident, courageous and energetic. Failure comes as a result when you are uncertain, wavering, fearful and self doubting.

For example, look at a person in their first job after graduating from college or university. She had little or no experience at the time and as a result, little responsibility and power. But as she made commitments, achieved results and developed as a leader others gained confidence in her as a “can do” person, and she climbed the ladder to higher challenges. She was successful because of the reputation she built, and by concentrating energy into her efforts.

You may or may not have a genius IQ. In fact, you are probably like the 70% of the population who are in the 85 to 115 IQ range. It does not matter. The man or woman that is chosen to take charge is not usually a genius. She does not possess any more talent than the others, but she has learned that results can only be produced by untiring, concentrated effort. She knows that results come by sticking to a plan and seeing it through. She becomes successful by becoming accustomed to “successfully doing” and feeling sure of her success.

It is disappointing to see many men and women, rich in ability and talent that do not put in the effort to succeed. Many of these people only need a little motivation to get them started. But usually they allow themselves to be impacted by the words and actions of others and they never reach their full potential. The result is that their inborn powers never develop and both they and the world are poorer for it. All they need is to be shown and encouraged that there is within them an omnipotent source that is ready to aid them, providing they will make use of it.

I can think of nothing that should interfere with you becoming successful. Not age, physical capabilities, health or wealth. Alexandra “Alex” Scott at 4 years old founded (yes, I said 4 years old, it is not a typo!) a charity for pediatric cancer research. For the next four years of Alex’s life, she continued to run her annual “Alex’s Lemonade Stand for Pediatric Research” and inspired countless others to do the same. Alex unfortunately died in 2004 at the age of 8, but her spirit lives on. At the time of this writing the charity she founded has raised well over $25,000,000 for pediatric cancer research. Was Alex a success? Incredibly and inspiringly so! If a young lady with focus and determination can do this, there is no obstacle that you should not be able to overcome. To overcome, all that is necessary is to use your determination and will.

In today’s world, when things do not turn out as you planned, you can redeem yourself by your own will. Do not wait for the encouragement of others or for inspiring advice to come. Take the initiative to conquer your weaknesses on your own and to get on the path to success. And, along the way, you should periodically sit down and examine the progress you have made. If you have not risen up to the level you expected, you should discover the reason, and apply the extra effort needed.

Remember, the successful person, is the one who gets knocked down seven times, and gets up eight times. The people that have risen to the highest levels of success have usually had to gain victories against big odds.

You can be that person.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC

Concentration Is The Cure For Tough Times…Part One

2009-03-02T14:17:00.004-05:00

Many people come to me who can not seem to accomplish their goals, no matter what written or oral advice, direction or counsel they have listened to in the past.

Perhaps you are in the same predicament right now! Maybe there is currently a crisis in your life, such as the possibility that you could lose your job. As a result you feel totally powerless and out of control. Or, your needs are simpler in that you just can not break that longstanding, bad habit that is ruining your health. And again, you feel powerless.

What is standing in your way, blocking your path to getting what you want, when you want it? Why is it so difficult to take control of your life?

As a human being you have two natures. One nature wants to advance and make positive progress in your life - pursue an education, a fulfilling career, a loving family and supportive friends. The other is negative and wants to pull you back - perhaps it is fear, doubt as to whether you deserve positive things, or the sheer terror of stepping out of your comfort zone when things do not go your way.

Both of your natures are trying to gain control. Your “will power” alone decides the issue. When you put aside your fear, the one nature you concentrate on and develop determines what you will become. You can completely control and concentrate your thoughts to create "opportunity".

John F. Kennedy once said, “When written in Chinese, the word "crisis" is composed of two characters. One represents danger and the other represents opportunity.”

To see OPPORTUNITY in any crisis situation, embed in your mind my five-step “attitude” adjustment…

1) Know that is by supreme effort of your concentration and determination that YOU can change your whole life and accomplish miracles.

2) Believe that YOU can be that person.

3) Remember, only YOU, and you, alone can decide when the “tipping point” in your life will come. When you develop a concentrated, strong will power you will find a way or make a way.

4) Decide whether YOU will allow your positive inner self to control you or whether you will be controlled by negative internal or external forces.

5) And finally, YOU must develop the belief within that you can become the director of your life - if you will it to be.

You also have many habits that you have acquired, both positive and negative. When habits affect you negatively, know that you can break a habit when you masters the "I will…" Your age is not a barrier. In fact, concentration of your will is not hindered by your age, color, race or gender! Many have changed and accomplished great things.

Some people may say "I lost my opportunity". That may be true, but by sheer force of will, you can find a way to bring new opportunity into your life. There is no truth in the saying that opportunity knocks at our door but once in a lifetime. The fact is opportunity is all around us, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. It does not find us. We need to find it.

Today, your brain is matched against another's. It is often the quickness of brain action (not reaction) that determines the result. One person thinks "I will do it…", but while he procrastinates the other goes ahead and takes advantage of the opportunity. They both had an equal shot at the same opportunity. The one will complain of his lost chance and it should teach him a lesson. It will, if he is seeking the path that leads to success. You may teach a person, but that person will only know when he takes the initiative to learn to concentrate on his own.

Every time you do not concentrate, you fall behind on what you planned to do and the result is, you lose a lot. That precious time is gone forever. Every day, you have 1,440 minutes at your disposal. That’s the same amount of time that successful people like, a Bill Gates or a Nelson Mandela, have every day. You may find reasons for not getting things done, but most excuses are poor substitutes for ACTION. Most things in life are possible.

You may have tasks that are hard, but the harder the task, the greater the reward. It is the difficult things that really develop you. Anything that requires only a small effort utilizes very few of your faculties and yields a little in the way of achievement. So do not shrink from a hard task. To accomplish tasks that are hard will often bring you more benefits than a dozen lesser accomplishments.

Write down on a 3” x 5” index card, my five-step attitude adjustment plan and review it daily. There is also a wealth of information available in two powerful motivation and success systems such as the Power Of Thought (How To Get What You Want) and the Power Of Concentration (How To Take Control Of Your Life).

In part two of this article, I’ll share more on why concentration is so powerful and an inspirational story that I hope will get you off of your behind and working on taking control of your life through concentration.

Just Because You Are Impatient, Does NOT Mean I Have To Move Any Faster!

2009-02-20T16:01:00.002-05:00

From the person who rides your rear bumper in traffic, honking their horn, or other people who loudly (and rudely) complain because the line that they are standing in is moving too slowly for them, there are some pretty impatient people in the world. And I am sure that you encounter your “un-fair” share of them every day.

In order to be a success in any endeavor you undertake you need to integrate the “art” of patience into your life.

If you do not know or understand what patience is here is one definition:

“The quality of being patient, as the bearing of provocation, annoyance, misfortune, or pain, without complaint, loss of temper, irritation, or the like.”

Another definition says patience is “an ability or willingness to suppress restlessness or annoyance when confronted with delay.”

Have we evolved into beings that have become so selfish and self absorbed that we have forgotten about our own self control? The ability to keep your mental, emotional and physical being, in check, requires self-control. The inability to do so is a sign that you are "out of control." When you easily lose your self control, you will most certainly fire off outbursts of anger, temper and blame on others.

Author Richard Rybolt said on the subject of patience, “There will be a time when loud-mouthed, incompetent people seem to be getting the best of you. When that happens, you only have to be patient and wait for them to self destruct. It never fails.”

Yep. And I saw it first hand while driving to work this Friday morning. The person driving in a green Jeep behind me just couldn’t wait. He drove close behind me, flashing his headlights for me to go faster, even though we were already doing the speed limit. Now, the police have been watching this road carefully over the last few weeks due to the amount of accidents and speeding cars. And, they have even parked an un-manned marked car in a number of spots to remind people to slow it down. However, “Mr. Impatient” could NOT wait. “Mr. Impatient” decides that he is going to pass me, and the road is marked with a double-yellow line. Now every person who has ever taken “Driving School 101” and passed their driver’s license test knows that you NEVER pass when there is a double yellow line, right? But Mr. Impatient was so self-absorbed and incompetent (when it comes to self mastery and self control) that he did not notice the police car that was following right behind him! As the police car’s lights activated and flashed like the grand finale of the “Pink Floyd Laser-Light Show” in his rear view mirror he pulled over to the side of the road.

It is the toughest, most challenging times of crisis that decide who the people of self (as in self absorbed) are and those of true power. Only the threat of disaster, ruin, and discrimination are some of the challenges in life that truly identify those with self control from those who are self centered and weak.

Develop a level of self awareness and wake up to the realities of life around you. As you develop or expand on your own “art” of patience, remember that everyone with whom you come in contact is busy working through their own struggles, weaknesses, setbacks, relapses, crises and obstacles to their personal growth and recovery. All of us are on the path to personal growth. There is no one exempt from this journey. It takes a lifetime to complete.

When you have developed your power, you will look upon incidents, such as having to stand in line or being late for work, in your life as comparatively insignificant. In comparison, the loss of your character and essence is the only happening which can really be called a calamity. When you have the power of your principles you are a calm, determined, in-control person under all circumstances - even when threatened with the loss of every possession, even to the loss of your reputation.

Keith Shaw (hey, that’s me) said in his book “The Power Of Serenity and Peace that “Tolerance is a characteristic of superior self control and patience is a hallmark of knowledge. When you maintain your unbroken calm amid all the duties and distractions of life you have found true power.”

Work on the “art” of patience within your self and you will find true power. And, hey “Mr. Impatient” man in the green Jeep, enjoy your traffic ticket and the points on your license. You could have better spent the money you will spend to cover the traffic fine by buying my book and learning the valuable life skill of patience.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com.

What Is All This Talk About Change?

2009-01-22T15:21:00.003-05:00

What is all this talk about change? Lately, we see and hear everywhere “that change is coming”. The U.S. White House website now says that “Change Has Come To America”.

There are numerous other websites that are dedicated to change, and countless quotations on the subject.

However, most people do not like change. In fact, one could say that the only people that like change are babies and the people who work in toll booths or the cashiers at the convenience store!

In fact King Whitney, Jr. remarked, “Change has a considerable psychological impact on the human mind. To the fearful it is threatening because it means that things may get worse. To the hopeful it is encouraging because things may get better. To the confident it is inspiring because the challenge exists to make things better.”

Things of course can change on their own. And, things can change if you take action to do them yourself.

If you wait for things to change on their own, you probably will not get what you want. In fact, you may wind up with far less than you had before the changes occurred!

So how do you become motivated to create change, rather than being at the whims of the universe as if you were a piece of driftwood on the open sea?

Here’s my secret – “There Needs To Be A Desire To Change Within You…”

You must work to create the passion, emotion and desire that operates on your “will to do” and causes it to take action. I also refer to this as the “Fire In The Belly”. In the “Rocky III” movie, the character Apollo Creed called it “The Eye Of The Tiger”.

No matter what you may called it, know that every one of us possesses some level of "will to do”. However, we do not always tap into it and use it to its’ full potential and potency.

Your “will to do” is the inner energy which controls all of your conscious and subconscious acts. Your “will to do” directs your life forces, habits (both good and bad) and your condition in life. Your will has a connection with all avenues of knowledge, activities, and accomplishment. When you develop the power of concentration within you, you will have developed a higher level of self mastery and your “will to do”.

The “will to do” is a force that is strictly practical. We know it is a force through its cause-and-effect nature. It is a power, like electricity, we can direct. To the extent we direct it, we determine our future. Every time you accomplish any definite act, consciously or subconsciously, you use the principle of the will. Through the “will to do” you can do anything. Therefore the way you use your will - both right and wrong – will make a huge difference in the outcome of your life focus.

You probably know of cases where people have shown tremendous strength under some traumatic experience: The frail person who lifts a heavy car to save the person trapped underneath. The fireman, who rushes into a burning building in order to save others, is another example. In both examples, they used their "will to do" to accomplish the task.

The “will to do” can accomplish great results through activities that grow out of great concentration. In developing the power of concentration, we acquire the power of voluntary attention to such an extent that we can direct it where we want to and hold it steadily to its task, until we accomplish our goals. When you learn to use your will power it becomes a mighty force. Almost everything can be accomplished through its proper use. It is greater than physical force because it can be used to control not only your physical actions, but also your mental health and mind power.

Mahatma Gandhi, said long ago, “You must be the change you want to see in the world”.

Build a burning desire to change, within you. Tap into your “will to do” and learn how to maximize its’ powerful force and you will achieve far more than you ever dreamed possible.

My Strategy Of The Ginormous Power Of One

2009-01-05T15:42:00.000-05:00

One…it’s not much.

A single unit.

Not zero, not two.

Just one.

In fact, the ‘70’s band “Three Dog Night” once sang that “one is the loneliest number”.

But, how can “ONE” make a difference? Sometimes it is hard, if not impossible, to visualize how it can.

Many years ago, I learned in my 7th grade science class that one little degree can make the difference between HOT water, at 211 degrees, and BOILING water at 212 degrees. Boiling water, at only one degree more than hot water will generate energy in the form of steam. When controlled and focused, that steam can be used to drive a turbine to generate an immense amount of power. One little degree does make an enormous difference.

What about ONE PERCENT more? As in, what if you make a one-percent change in your life? For example, a one-percent improvement in the effort you put forth toward your personal relationship goals, professional relationship objectives, health, career or other thoughts, wishes and dreams that you have written out in your plans for 2009?

At first, it really doesn’t seem like much either, does it.

However, what if you make a one-percent change in your life…EVERYDAY?

Well, now you would be on to something big… exponentially big.

Here is what I mean by exponentially big. Let’s say you take action every single day in the New Year to achieve a mere 1% change in your life. When you do, it leads not to a 30% change at the end of one month, but more than a 36% change! When you reach the end of month two you will achieve - more than an 80% change in your life and world!

So, you can imagine what phenomenal, positive progress you will have realized by this time next year when you harness my strategy of “The Ginormous Power of One”!

Norman Vincent Peale once said, “Change your thoughts and you change your world.” Look at your goals, objectives and dreams for 2009 and rethink the way that you make small changes in your life. These changes will multiply exponentially, and will lead to BIG changes in every thing you do in 2009 and beyond.

Copyright 2009 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC.

A Seven Step Plan For Success In 2009

2008-12-29T08:07:00.001-05:00

Many of us go through our lives in search of many things, for example - love, better personal and professional relationships, a rewarding career, wealth, health, a full, rich life…

No matter what you seek, how can you ever be successful in accomplishing the things you want without knowing the meaning of success?

Here’s my seven step plan to help you understand and internalize the meaning of success. Follow these steps everyday and you will make far more progress and increase your odds of success manifold.

1) Self Discipline -
Those who have the ability to do what is required without needing to be poked, prodded or ordered to by someone else will win every time. Gain control of your mind, body and emotions by developing your self mastery skills. Paraphrasing Yoda from the Star Wars films, “Do, or do not, there is no try”.

2) United, Strong Support System -
Success leaves clues. Locate and develop a strong network of trusted and successful associates that you can rely on 100% to give you honest, productive feedback as you navigate the roads on your success journey. And, be sure to ignore “the Naysayer’s”, the people who will always be around to criticize, create chaos or try to distract or detract you and knock you off course.

3) Courage -
You must develop the confidence and courage that allows your mind to use its full power - in any circumstance. You must overcome the fear of asking for what you want or the answer will always be no.

4) Commitment -
If anything is worth doing, then only 110% effort will do. When your mind properly concentrates and focuses on your wants, all the vital energy of every bodily cell is directed into one channel generating a powerful personal influence. Every one of us is made up of 10 trillion cells. Each one of these has a center where life and energy are generated and stored up. If this energy is not conserved and controlled, but instead wasted, you can not become more productive and influential. Your brain is the reservoir of all your energy. Most persons have all the dynamic energy they need, if they would just concentrate it. They have the capability, but they must also have the “director” to focus it and then channel it appropriately, or they will not go very far. The person that does not develop his “director” skills will not reach the levels in life that he is capable of. The good director controls his every act. With every thing you do, you either advance or lose valuable ground.

5) Enthusiasm / Energy -
I would like you to close your eyes and visualize yourself in the following two scenarios. In the first, imagine yourself starting each day without clarity of purpose and a lack of direction. Can you feel how tired and unfocused you will be, not only for that day, but for each day that follows?

Now imagine yourself with a sense of purpose and the emotion and desire for achievement. Can you feel how this will give you more enthusiasm, excitement and energy to tackle any challenge? Enthusiasm, excitement and energy are boundless when you develop and engineer clearly-defined goals and a sense of direction.

6) Self Respect (and respect of others) -
When you concentrate your mind to improve the "you" or real self, and its wonderful possibilities, the result is that you develop concentration and self esteem. By doing this systematically you develop more power, because you can not be systematic without concentrating on what you are doing.

7) Stick-To-It-Tive-Ness -
No matter how long the journey on your success quest. No matter how many potholes, detours, and other obstacles are in your way. Those who have the will to do and perseverance to stay the course will win the game. It is said that Edison tried over 900 different components unsuccessfully before coming up with his working version of the light bulb. Be tenacious and persevere.

Add my seven-step success plan to your life and accomplish more than you ever dreamed possible.

Copyright 2008 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC.

Get Busy Living, Or Get Busy Dying

2008-10-14T13:23:00.001-05:00

In your life, everyday, there are a myriad of things all around you in the universe that can provide you with inspiration and motivation - IF you are ready and willing to receive them. The concentrated, conscious and aware person is ALWAYS on the lookout for these moments – and uses them to their best advantage to get them through both the good and the tough times.

It could be one of your childhood heroes. Or a noble cause supported by a neighborhood fund-raising event. Even the lyrics from a song (or words from a poem) can be employed to motivate and inspire you to get up and take action. And remember my quote, “Every action you take, no matter how big or small, defines everything that you achieve in your life”.

Case in point: a life-long friend recently gave me a “Classic Rock” Boxed-CD set for my birthday. In listening and playing “air guitar” along to the songs, there was one song in particular that struck a chord (yes, this pun WAS intended) and made me listen intently. And, as you may have guessed by now, motivated and inspired me to write this article.

The song was called “Keep on Smiling”, by a band called Wet Willie, which came out in the early 1970’s. This “feel-good” song told the stories of people who are faced with a number of life’s challenges and decisions – perhaps you are facing some or all of these challenges right now.

- Your financial situation, along with everyone else’s, is not in the “black” and you’re struggling to make ends meet for you and your family.

- Or, your husband / boyfriend / wife / girlfriend has just told you that it is over and has packed up and moved on with their lives.

- Or, the job that you currently have is mundane and unappreciated. Or even worse, you have lost your job.

- Or, you need to make a life-changing decision.

- Or, you just don’t know what you want to do right now – or want to be in the future.

Of course, there are a few things you can do to overcome these issues. One is to “Do nothing and hope for a miracle”. Another is to find a way - when you develop your “will” you will always find a way or make one.

It all boils down to your mental state and your mental power. And, I have composed volumes on the power of your positive thoughts as opposed to thoughts that are negative and destructive.

Many years ago, when I was in my teens I first “learned” this lesson and wrote it down in the quotation that follows. The words exploded like lightning from my mind, shot like electricity down my arm and sparked out of my pen onto the pages of my journal. It eventually became one of the central themes of my motivation and success system, The Power Of Thought. Here it is word for word...

“Within your mind, you have the power to create your own heaven – or hell”.

When times are good it is always easy to be positive and upbeat and to persuade your self to believe in and adhere to the principles of peace, tolerance, and love.

However when times are rough and bumpy, you may be more likely to be disoriented, emotionally depressed, indecisive, prejudiced or close minded. Look and study your self and the others around you closely when times are tough and you can begin to identify those who quickly change their thought patterns to one of negativity, finger pointing (“it’s not MY fault”) and betrayal, for example.

MOTIVATE your self to take action.

Show a high level of PERSISTANCE.

ENCOURAGE others to do the same.

Paraphrasing the song… Smile. Laugh. Flow With Life.

And from me to you, “Create your own heaven within your mind”. You will be stronger and better prepared for the better times that will be yours on the road of life.

Copyright 2008 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC.

90% Of The Population Have NO Goals!

2008-10-07T13:45:00.004-05:00

One life strategy that I recommend and reinforce, time and time again with my clients and the readers of my world-wide newsletter, is to have a written list of well-thought-out goals for everything and anything that they want to accomplish in life.

It may be their health goal, such as to lose weight. Or, their goal may be to stop smoking cigarettes to improve the quality of their life and save a ton of money as a result.

It may be a communication / relationship objective, such as better dialogue and increased positive, quality time with their spouse and children. Or for some it may be to mend a broken relationship. Or they might have a desire to undertake a humanitarian purpose such as helping and teaching others. In fact, in How To Get What You Want, When You Want It, I teach and show you this success strategy of how to develop your clearly defined goals, step by step.

There are numerous studies that prove the value of journaling to write down and keep track of your thoughts and goals. A study sponsored by the Ford Foundation found that:

- 23% of the population has no idea what they want from life, and as a result, they do not have much.

- 67% of the population has a general idea of what they want, but they do not have any plans for how to get it.

- Only 10% of the population has specific, well-defined goals, but even then, seven out of the ten of those people reach their goals only half the time.

- The top 3%, however, achieved their goals 89% of the time.

Wow, an astonishing 90% of the population has no ideas or plans for what they want out of life! Without a solid life plan to take a hold of, these “drifters” will not have direction or the peace of mind to maximize their lives.

When you have no central purpose in your life, you fall an easy prey to petty worries, fears, troubles, and self pity. You become just like the proverbial driftwood cast about by the crashing waves on the sea. All of these are indications of a lack of strength in your life, which leads to failure, unhappiness, and loss. Without strength, you can not persevere.

The scientist, Louis Pasteur said, “Let me tell you the secret that has led me to my goal. My strength lies solely in my tenacity.”

So, how does one develop more tenacity or determination?

One of my strategies is this. Before you start out to work on any of your goals; you must look ahead and know where the finish line is – what you want to accomplish in detail along with the timetable that will lead you there. Of course there are many roads that you can, and at times must, take. You must select a road that will lead to somewhere, rather than nowhere.

Just like the scattered rays of the sun, when focused by a magnifying glass, produce a heat many times greater than the sun’s rays alone. This is also true of your ability to focus on positive and productive goals and take action toward them. If your attention is not focused you get ordinary results. But center and focus it on your goals, instead of wasting it on useless complaining, and your motivation and growth will be strong and limitless. And, there’s more. When your mind can properly concentrate, all the vital energy of every bodily cell is directed into one channel generating a powerful personal influence on yourself and on others who can help you to reach your goals.

Here’s a real-world example of what happens when you do not have a finish line. I used to work in an office with a woman who handmade a banner and attached it to the wall of her cubicle. “There is NO finish line!” the sign screamed in four-inch-high, bold letters. As I would pass by her desk, I thought “what a peculiar mantra to live and do business by”.

What “There is NO finish line!” meant to me was; “No finish line, means no clearly defined written goal, means the road leads to nowhere, and no way to get to a result…”.

Needless to say, the project she worked on failed miserably. She had no focus, no goal and no outcome. And, since no one else could see the finish line, she could not excite and inspire others to get involved and help her.

When you keep your goals clearly defined and SEE them happening you will be more determined and will persevere under any circumstances. Every action you take in life, needs to have a starting line AND a finish line. You will increase your chances of success manifold and get what you want, when you want it.

Copyright 2008 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC.

The Remarkable Story of Immaculée Ilibagiza Continues...

2008-09-25T14:19:00.004-05:00

In my Mind Body Spirit Central September 2008 Newsletter (in my article) "Acts Of Kindness" I told you about the New York Times Best-Selling Author, Immaculée Ilibagiza's new inspiring book, Led By Faith!

You can preview chapters 1 and 2: http://promos.hayhouse.com/ilibagiza/091608email/gifts/ilibagiza.immaculee_print_led-by-faith_ch1-2_wbuylinks.pdf

Read Immaculée's miraculous and inspiring story—Led By Faith: Rising from the Ashes of the Rwandan Genocide. Purchase today and you'll receive free gifts from Hay House and our sponsors AND you can enter to win one of these prizes: a trip to see Immaculée in New York, a free autographed copy of Led By Faith, or a free one-year membership to the Hay House Wisdom Community! For additional details, visit: http://promos.hayhouse.com/ilibagiza/091608email/index.php?utm_campaign=keith_shaw&utm_medium=email&utm_source=partner

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Prizes and Gifts
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Check out the fantastic prizes we're offering to celebrate the release of Led By Faith! To purchase your copy and receive exciting and valuable gifts, go to: http://promos.hayhouse.com/ilibagiza/091608email/index.php?utm_campaign=keith_shaw&utm_medium=email&utm_source=partner

GRAND PRIZE
One winner will receive a trip for two to see Immaculée in New York for the West End Lecture Series on January 8, 2009. This prize includes VIP passes for the event, hotel accommodations for one night, round-trip coach domestic airfare, and a meet and greet with Immaculée before the event.

PRIZE #2
10 winners will receive an autographed first edition of Led By Faith.

PRIZE #3
10 winners will receive free memberships to the Hay House Wisdom Community™ for one year. As a member of the Wisdom Community, you will receive a 30% Discount on all Hay House online store products, a 10% Discount on Hay House events (excluding cruises), exclusive access to all HayHouseRadio.com show archives, and more!

DOWNLOADABLE GIFTS
You'll also enjoy an amazing selection of free gifts from Immaculée Ilibagiza, Hay House, and our many sponsors.

HURRY, this offer is for a limited time only! Visit Hay House for additional details: http://promos.hayhouse.com/ilibagiza/091608email/index.php?utm_campaign=keith_shaw&utm_medium=email&utm_source=partner

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About Led By Faith
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For three months in the spring of 1994, the African nation of Rwanda descended into one of the most vicious and bloody genocides the world has ever seen. Immaculée Ilibagiza, a young university student, miraculously survived the savage killing spree that left most of her family and friends, and a million of her fellow citizens, dead. Immaculée's astonishing story of survival was documented in the bestseller Left To Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust.

Now Immaculée's amazing journey continues in her new book, Led By Faith: Rising from the Ashes of the Rwandan Genocide. Through her simple and eloquent voice, we experience her hardships and heartache as she fights to survive and find meaning and purpose in the aftermath of the genocide. Orphaned and alone, she navigates a bleak and dangerously hostile world with only an abiding faith in God to guide and protect her. Immaculée fends off sinister new predators, seeks out and comforts scores of children orphaned by the genocide, and searches for love and companionship in a land where hatred still flourishes. She struggles along with her homeland to heal from the wounds of war and to keep love, and forgiveness alive.

Then, fearing again for her safety as Rwanda’s war-crime trials begin, Immaculée flees to America to begin a new chapter of her life as a refugee and immigrant—a stranger in a strange land. With the same courage and faith in God that led her through the darkness of genocide, Immaculée discovers a new life that was beyond her wildest dreams as a small girl in a tiny village in one of Africa’s poorest countries.

It is in the United States, her adopted country, that she can finally look back at all that has happened to her and truly understand why God spared her... so that she would be left to tell her story to the world. Empowered by faith, Immaculée rebuilds her world with hope, love, and compassion.

After the genocide, how could Immaculée find peace in a world changed forever? Immaculée not only found her own miraculous peace but reached out to help others who were suffering. She discovered that love was the key to healing both her own heart and that of her people. The loss of her family left her wondering how she could ever begin to love again, when a friend shared these words:

"Go back into the world and find someone to bless with that same type of love. Give it to someone who has no love at all, such as the homeless, the sick, or the orphaned. Look for the beauty of God in the eyes of a little boy or girl. Find a child whose heart has been shattered, and give him or her some happiness. Remember, all love begins with a smile."

Join Immaculée in her journey of discovery and spiritual growth: "I learned that when we have suffered a loss too great to bear, our hearts and minds are open to miracles…and sometimes even a little miracle can sustain our faith and help us survive."

Led By Faith is dedicated to Dr. Wayne Dyer who met Immaculée at a spiritual conference in New York and vowed to bring her story of the power of love and forgiveness to the world.

Preview chapters 1 and 2: http://promos.hayhouse.com/ilibagiza/091608email/gifts/ilibagiza.immaculee_print_led-by-faith_ch1-2_wbuylinks.pdf

Read her incredible story of love and redemption in Led By Faith: Rising from the Ashes of the Rwandan Genocide. Purchase your copy today and receive your free gifts from Hay House and our sponsors. You can also enter to win a trip to see Immaculée in New York. For additional details, visit: http://promos.hayhouse.com/ilibagiza/091608email/index.php?utm_campaign=keith_shaw&utm_medium=email&utm_source=partner

Open Your Heart To Grow Compassion For Others

2008-09-22T12:07:00.004-05:00

You were born into the world with an innocent mind, heart and a pure, unblemished, open spirit. You had no prejudice, no preconceived notions, no anger, fear, anxiety or stress. However, over the course of your life, the pressures of society and opinions of others clouded your vision, mind and of course - your spirit.

In the present day, happiness, serenity and peace are elusive treasures. Stress, anxiety, and increased rudeness in society are piled on all of us and weigh us down, suffocating us. We are bombarded with bad news by the media twenty-four hours a day about violence, crashing economies, stories of genocide and prejudice. Not to mention the ongoing threat of terrorism.

And to make things even more complex, on the battlefield of the human spirit, two “masters” constantly contend for the supremacy, authority and domination of your heart.

The first of which is the “Master of Self”.

The other is “The Master of Truth”.

The “Master of Self” is the rebellious one whose devices are rage, ego, greed, vanity, selfishness and the trappings of darkness.

The “Master of Truth” is the humble, patient and peaceful one whose devices are gentleness, purity, sacrifice, humility, love and instruments of light.

When you cling to and are ruled by the “Master of Self” you open yourself to unnecessary torment.

Here are some examples (that you may have experienced) when you are ruled by the “Master of Self”:

1) You suffer disappointment because YOUR plans have been frustrated,

2) Someone has not lived up to YOUR expectations,

3) You regret YOUR behavior in public and private,

4) You are overwhelmed with regret because of the attitude or comments of someone toward YOU,

5) You are wounded on account of what has been done to YOU or said of YOU.

As you may have noticed, I purposely put the pronouns and adjectives in capital letters to reinforce how you cling to YOUR “self”.

However, did you know that a world-wide study is now underway sponsored by National Geographic, IBM and others? This study has captured DNA data from volunteers, analyzed it and determined that all human beings, no matter where they live today, what their status in life is, or their color, race and religion, are descended from two individuals in the East Central area of Africa that lived only 60,000 years ago? (Just as a frame of reference, the Earth is 4.54 BILLION years old). They have been able, through scientific DNA analysis, to identify key genetic markers that show how the offspring of these two individuals, our ancestors, migrated across the planet.

The results show that we are all from the same “parents”. Yet we continue to gravitate toward beliefs that are selfish and self centered instead of showing empathy and compassion to others.

What I am saying is for you to sacrifice your hatred, greed, prejudice, and opinions that bias the way you look at every day things and people around you. Begin looking at others with compassion, with love, and with respect. When you look at people in this manner you enter the pathway of truth, and find the peace from which the rest of the world is shut out. The absolute denial and extinction of self is the perfect state of truth.

However, how does one begin to find this state of truth? In a recent book, The Power of Serenity and Peace, the author shows you how to find happiness in today’s stressed-out world. In the present day, happiness, serenity and peace are elusive treasures.

One of the effective exercises in the book shows you how to find the “Master of Truth”. Of course, just doing the exercises does not make you a “master”. The exercises will only begin to make you more aware and start you on the path to finding the Master of Truth within you. It will and can only come through continuous practice, study and living it.

Here are the simple yet effective compassion and empathy exercises for you to try. The author also suggests that you to keep a brief journal, and write down what you experience and feel emotionally. Choose one of the following “a” or “b”.

a. Spend one day (yes, 24 hours) mute with no talking allowed. Only gesturing, writing on slips of paper, sign language (if you know it) is allowed. Journal your experience. How did people react to you? What did you learn from this?

b. Spend one day experiencing a physical impairment. Tape a small, hard object (a ball bearing, small pebble — no bigger than the size of a pea) to the bottom of your foot on your heel area. Put on your sock and shoe. Wear this for the rest of the day. Journal your experience. (And no, this does not qualify you to park in the handicapped spot at the mall, the restaurant, or other).

The great Japanese samurai, Miyamoto Musashi said, "Practice a thousand hours and you learn self discipline. Practice ten thousand hours and you learn about yourself."

As you succeed in overcoming self you will begin to see things in their proper relationships. When you are absolutely free from all anger, prejudice, preference, and partiality, and have nothing to attack, defend, conceal, and no interests to guard, you will be at peace.

Copyright 2008 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC.

Acts Of Kindness - An Inspiring Event

2008-09-16T13:47:00.003-05:00

Dear All, in my September 2008 www.mindbodyspiritcentral.com newsletter, I wrote in my article "Acts of Kindness" as to how you can get more involved in helping others. Here is additional information on the Women For Women program that appeared on page 4.

Women for Women is an award-winning non-profit that provides women survivors of war, civil strife and other conflicts with the tools and resources to move from crisis and poverty to stability and self-sufficiency, thereby promoting viable civil societies. They currently work in eight countries including Afghanistan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq, Kosovo, Nigeria, Rwanda and Sudan. They have served over 150,000 women and distributed more than $42 million in direct aid and loans.

The offer below is so inspiring I just had to share it with you today. There is even a no-strings attached gift just for taking a look at this event, a gift that was designed just to bring unity to the world. You cannot get much better than that.

The Gift of Self Actualization

Eldon Taylor’s International and New York Times best selling book, Choices and Illusions, states that “the real meaning in life comes from what you give, not from what you take. . . . that the “warm fuzzy feeling” we derive from a true service experience—going to the aid of another in need—is the best feeling we can have when we put our head on the pillow each night.”

Today, Eldon has put together an amazing special offer that just keeps on giving. In fact there is a bonus gift for you, just for clicking on the link below and reading his inspiring special offer.

For every copy of Choices and Illusions sold, Eldon will make a donation to Women for Women International of $1. You can see for yourself the fabulous work they do by going to: www.womenforwomen.org.

In addition to raising money for Women for Women, you will also receive over 100 additional gifts from leading visionaries, such as Don Miguel Ruiz, James Van Praagh, Louise Hay, Wayne Dyer, Jack Canfield and of course myself, just for purchasing one copy of Choices and Illusions, which costs less than $15.

Choices and Illusions does a great job at explaining, in a very down to earth way, how your mind works, why some changes can be so difficult to make, and how you can take control of your own mind to create the life of your choosing. You owe it to yourself to learn all that Choices and Illusions has to offer and then apply it to your own life. Readers from around the world are reporting huge changes in their lives when they did just that and now it is your turn.

Click here for more details.

http://progressiveawarenesspromotions.com/hayhousepromo/092008/

We wish you the best in everything – because we care!

Thank you and have a phenomenal day!

Oh, Woe Is Me…

2008-09-12T13:08:00.002-05:00

I’ll bet you have at least one friend, acquaintance, colleague or spouse that is chronically miserable, gloomy and cheerless. Regardless of whom it is this person has something to complain about every single day.

Correct?

Or perhaps, the “friend” above is you…if so, it’s okay to admit to it!

Maybe you are going through some tough times. Tough times, challenges and obstacles are all part of life and growing as a human being. In fact, they are a law of the universe in which we exist!

However, my experience indicates that it is typically those who have it “all” that are far more miserable than those that have little in the way of finances, possessions or other trappings of the “silver spoon” life. These types of people are so wrapped up and absorbed in protecting against the loss of their material possessions they completely ignore their own personal development and growth - and hence, regress physically, mentally and spiritually.

Let’s look at a week-long snapshot to illustrate my point. By the way, these are all real-world examples. Yes, unfortunately I was there to witness them.

For example, on Monday the “friend / work colleague” may have been ranting and raving and sounding like a broken record, over the latest “Somebody Did Me Wrong” that happened over the weekend. And on the flip side of the recording is their other hit song, “Oh, Woe Is Me…”

On Tuesday, it was the weather – too hot, too cold, too sunny, too windy... arrgh!

Wednesday, the conversation began with a dissertation about every little ache, pain, and paper cut. Or that they are too tired.

On Thursday, they were angry at the world spewing venom and profanities at every person they came in contact with - the stereotypical “finger flippin’, horn honkin’, road rager” comes to mind.

And, on Friday, they now believe that the world and everyone in it, is out to get them - look out for the tears! They constantly play the role of “victim” and blame everyone else but them self for their misery, negative thoughts and emotional outbursts – of course, all self inflicted.

Thank god for the weekend!

How can these types of people ever have any positive energy left to be motivated to achieve what they want in life? Let alone productively function from day to day?

Well, the truth is that they can’t due to their lack of self control and self mastery. And, there is nothing that uses up vital energy as quickly as a lack of self control and self mastery. Having used up their vital energies, the emotional, irritable person can not concentrate, nor focus on a single thought.

And it builds from there. The miserable, irritable person is not magnetic. He / she is not admired or loved or fun to be around. And he does not develop those finer qualities that a person of success possesses. He creates a chasm between himself and others. And, therefore is not able to enlist others in helping him to reach his goals and dreams.

In addition, anger, sarcasm and rage weaken a person in this direction. The person that allows himself to get into any of these negative states of mind will eventually cause health problems, career problems, relationship problems, not only for themselves, but for the people they interact with.

If you currently resemble this person, what must you do? You must learn to harness your power of concentration that will lead to self mastery. When your mind can properly concentrate, all the vital energy of every bodily cell is directed into one channel generating a powerful personal influence.

Every one of us, even you, is made up of 10-trillion cells. Each one of these has a center where life and energy are generated and stored up. If this energy is not conserved and controlled, but instead wasted, you can not become more productive and influential.

Remember that the scattered rays of the sun, when focused by a magnifying glass, produce a heat many times greater than the sun’s rays alone. This is also true of your ability to concentrate on positive outcomes and taking action toward them. If your attention is not focused you get ordinary results. But center and focus it on your goals, instead of wasting it on useless complaining, and your motivation and growth will be strong and limitless.

Every action, no matter how big or small, defines everything that you achieve in life. Don’t waste your valuable energy on anything less.

Copyright 2008 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC.

You Can Put Lipstick On A Pig, But It's Still A Pig

2008-09-10T19:50:00.011-05:00

It seems this colloquial saying is making the rounds - and causing quite a row - in the current U.S. presidential campaigns. According to the “Urban Dictionary”, this phrase is slang for when someone tries to dress something up to make it look better than it really is.

Yes, it is true. No matter whether it is lipstick, perfume or a tuxedo, a pig is still a pig. Now, before the animal rights people start e-mailing me let me go on record that - I have nothing at all against pigs!

However, it did stimulate me to think about the way that people communicate. You see, phenomenally successful people work constantly on their “people skills”. In the popular motivation and success system, The Power of Concentration, the author wrote that…

“The first, and most critical, area is the relationships you have with others as well as what and how you COMMUNICATE in those relationships.”

The manner in which you communicate, not only

#1) what you say, that is, your choice of words,
#2) how you say it, and
#3) the situation or circumstance in which you communicate,

can either make you (more) successful OR make you appear or perceived to be just like the “poor pig” in our opening example - all dressed up to look better than it is!

And, with that in mind, here is the key takeaway of my motivational story. Be careful of what I call “the colorful metaphors”. You may also know them as the dreaded “four-letter words"!

For example, last week I met a potential client, who I will call "Karen", who despite her current status in life injected these “colorful metaphors” quite liberally in the conversation. Now, I’m not talking about “shucks” or “darn” as examples, I’m talking about the “queen mother” of all four-letter words among others. Yes, it was the nuclear “F-bomb”!

The truth is, without quality communication with the people that you relate to on a daily basis, whether they are at your place of business, in your personal life or at the shopping mall, you can not attract the building blocks that lead to success.

Poor communication, especially when using "colorful metaphors and four-letter words", affects the way others perceive, understand and react to you. The people who communicate best are the ones that are the most successful. Look at any of the successful people that you know and study the way that they communicate. You will quickly see through their words, body language and tonality their formula for success. You will also notice that they listen more than they talk. When it is time for them to talk, they ensure that they TAKE FULL RESPONSIBILITY for every word.

And, it does not matter what your current situation or circumstance is. Whether you are on the path to success or already believe you are successful. It does not matter if you already have a high-level of financial comfort, a college or university education, an expensive watch, luxury car or you or your spouse own a business. The cold, hard truth is that the person who does not take the responsibility for the words they choose presents him / herself as unprofessional, lacking self control and self discipline. They will quickly and positively lose the respect of the people they deal with.

Period.

Be aware and watch these simple, yet critical, interpersonal skills every day as they will take you far along your path to success. Be careful not to take the “Ready, Fire, Aim” approach in communicating with others. Manage your thoughts by developing your self control and self mastery. There is a Chinese Proverb that reads, “A gem cannot be polished without friction, nor a man perfected without trials.” Practice everyday, and soon you will be making a powerful and positive impression, (without lipstick or a tuxedo), no matter where you are on your quest for personal development, success or self improvement.

Copyright 2008 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC.

To Play And Win The Game Of Life You Must Have CHIPS

2008-09-09T14:28:00.004-05:00

You may have heard or made this statement before,

“You can always count on him or her, when the CHIPS are down”.

If you made the statement, it was because you knew that the person would get the job done, no matter what the odds, challenge or the obstacles involved.

Today it is a rarity when you can find people that you can truly count on. Too many people are distracted, unfocused and undisciplined to even be on time – let alone have the common courtesy to let you know when they won’t be there…ahead of time!

For example, I once worked with a man I will call “Ted”, who was always late for EVERYTHING — work, meetings, deadlines for presentations and of course, making decisions. I even joked with him that he would be late for his own funeral. And here is the ironic part — “Ted” set his watch 15 minutes ahead to make sure that he was on time, and he WAS STILL CONSISTENTLY LATE!

In order to be successful at any endeavor, you must begin to build a solid foundation in these key areas.

And with that in mind, here’s my time-tested, “secret recipe” with the ingredients to help you compile your very own, limitless supply of C.H.I.P.S. These “chips” will help you become the kind of person who can be counted on time and time again - by your boss, friends, spouse, family and others.

Ingredient #1 - Concentration

Olympic Gold Medal Winner, Edwin Moses said, “My concentration level blocks out everything. Concentration is why some … are better than others.” By supreme effort of your concentration and determination you CAN change your whole life and accomplish miracles. You CAN be that person that everyone counts on. You alone CAN decide when the “tipping point” in your life will come. When you develop a concentrated “will to do” you will always find a way or make one.

Ingredient #2 - Humility

Being successful has nothing to do with drawing attention to your achievements or abilities. In fact, some of the most successful people in the world, such as a Nelson Mandela, Mother Theresa or Warren Buffett are neither boastful nor ostentatious. Let the “self” go, and do what needs to be done ONLY because it is the right thing to do, and for no other reason. Period.

Ingredient #3 - Integrity

You will begin to develop the “power” leading to habits of success within you when you gravitate to a higher and calmer consciousness based on a foundation of ethical and moral standards and principles. This is integrity.

Ingredient #4 - Perseverance

No matter how long the journey on your success quest. No matter how many potholes, detours, and other obstacles are in your way. Those who have the will to do and perseverance to stay the course will win the game. It is said that Edison tried over 900 different components unsuccessfully before coming up with his working version of the light bulb. Edison also established the first “invention factory”, which burned to the ground due to a chemical accident. When Edison was asked what he would do, he calmly said “We will rebuild”. Stay the course. Be tenacious. Persevere.

And the final Ingredient #5 - Self Discipline

Those who have the ability to do what is required without needing to be poked, prodded or ordered to by someone else will win every time. Gain control of your mind, body and emotions. Develop your self mastery skills. Paraphrasing Yoda from the Star Wars films, “Do, or do not, there is no try”. Motivation from within, trumps external motivation EVERYTIME!

Build your skill by diligent focus on these areas and you will notice an improvement in your ability to succeed. As you move forward, you may make wrong decisions from time to time. However, look at these situations as gaining the benefit of knowing what does not work. Your skills of concentration, perseverance and self discipline will help you to make the necessary changes when you know you are off course.

For more “secret recipes” on how to win at any game, no matter how challenging, see my website for my Powerful Motivation and Success Systems.

Copyright 2008 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com.

I Have Met The Enemy, And It Is Me!

2008-08-28T12:54:00.004-05:00

They are around you every day – at work, at school, at the supermarket, in the newspapers, everywhere.

Who am I talking about?

For example, you may have recently observed someone at the office complaining to everyone within earshot about how “someone did them wrong…again.”

Or maybe you saw on the evening news, during the holidays, people in a fist fight over the last sale item at the local department store.

Or perhaps you read in the newspaper, about the woman who became angry when she was politely asked to move her illegally-parked car in front of a nightclub. She then ran over people standing in line as she tried to crash her car through the front door.

The people I am referring to in these examples are governed by the “self”.

I sometimes call these types of individuals, “Sandpaper People”, as they always rub us the wrong way (of course you may have your own definition that we can not reprint here!). If we do not work to build self mastery and self control within ourselves, being around Sandpaper People can cause us to feel as if we were rubbed “raw”, stressed, demoralized and more.

Why do we experience these emotions that are caused by the "self"? Is it because we are weak? In order to better deal with these situations we must first understand why these people act as if they are the only people in the world.

When you are governed by the self and your feelings of self importance, any time that your selfish comforts are threatened, chances are you will quickly show your irrational, emotional side. Because you are so deeply intent upon defending and guarding your own selfish interests, you believe that you are justified in doing anything to protect them, no matter how dramatic your actions.

The people that I talked about (all real world stories!) in these three examples do not understand that they are their own worst enemy. They continually scheme as to how they may protect themselves against their perceived enemies and use up their precious power. People who are wrapped up in self regard the loss of not only minor things, like in the examples, but also wealth, comforts or material possessions as the greatest calamities that could occur to them.

It is a human condition, and easy for people, when all is going well and they have the enjoyment of all their possessions, to persuade themselves to believe in and adhere to the principles of peace, brotherhood, and universal love. However when their enjoyments are threatened, or they imagine they are threatened, they show a belief in, not peace, brotherhood, and love, but selfishness, prejudice and hatred.

It is the toughest, most challenging times of crisis that decide who the people of self are and those of true power. The threat of disaster, ruin, and discrimination are some of the challenges in life that truly identify those with self control from those who are self centered and weak.

Do these two exercises to see how you have acted and reacted in challenging times…

#1) Close your eyes and remember the time(s) when things in your life were going well. Perhaps it is the present time. Maybe it was in a time long ago. I want you to be honest and evaluate the way you ACTED. Look within yourself to recall how you treated other people. Did you feel happiness and peace with the world? Did you hold to and live by the principles of respect, brotherhood, universal love and charity towards others?

#2) Next, think of a time when things were not going quite so well. Perhaps your possessions were threatened or you imagined they were threatened. You may have lost a promotion to someone else or your job was phased out. I want you to be honest and evaluate the way you REACTED. Did you react with selfishness, prejudice, hatred or other negative emotions? Or what about a minor incident where you were cut off in traffic or you spilled coffee on your new shirt. Or the weather was bad. Or my favorite – the person who beats up their spouse or loved one, because their favorite sports team lost the game – “Hay dios mio!”

When you have developed your power, you will look upon incidents in your life as comparatively insignificant. In comparison, the loss of your character and essence is the only happening which can really be called a calamity. When you have the power of your principles you are a calm, determined, in-control person under all circumstances - even when threatened with the loss of every possession, even to the loss of your reputation.

Mother Teresa said, “If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.”

There is no way to build spiritual power except by inward reflection and enlightenment. It is by constant practicing, and application of your principles that you continue to learn and grow.

Here’s to your personal growth!

Copyright 2008 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com.

What Ever Happened To Reading A Good Book?

2008-08-21T13:18:00.003-05:00

In a recent program on National Public Radio, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. talked about how today in the U.S., people know more about “events” like the results of “American Idol” (on the 10 or 11 p.m. news!) and celebrity “news” (insert name of celebrity here) than they do about public and social concerns, not only those in the U.S. but also around the world.

In fact, the U.S. major “news” outlets (e.g., C.N.N., MSNBC, Fox) spend more airtime recycling and regurgitating the celebrity “news” that they do on any other story (e.g., Paris Hilton’s jail woes in 2007). And, more and more reality shows with little or no content come out every season…

Yes, it is the “dumbing” down of the U.S. public.

This phenomenon is not limited to the United States. Studies in Australia have also shown that too much television causes marked memory loss. The researchers believe that passive television watching does not intellectually stimulate the mind. In fact, most shows do not stimulate critical thinking.

And, today on 21 August 2008, in a story reported by Christine Ollivier of the Associated Press, France has banned French T.V. channels from airing programming aimed at children younger than three years of age. For foreign programs that are offered on cable, a warning message will be broadcast at the beginning of each show! (wow, just like a package of cigarettes!) Health experts have gone on the record to say that “Television viewing hurts the development of children under 3 years old. Risks include slow language acquisition and development, over-excitedness, troubles with CONCENTRATION and more”.

Yet, children continue to spend on average up to 4 hours per day watching television according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. In contrast, they spend on average ONLY 2 hours and 14 minutes PER WEEK studying and doing homework (USA Today Weekend Magazine).

In addition, children who watch too much television are more likely to be overweight. And if your child watches 3 to 4 hours of non-educational TV per day, he will have seen about 8,000 murders on T.V. by the time he finishes grade school. In comparison, the average American adult watches nearly five hours of television per day (A.C. Nielsen).

And, obesity is on the rise in adults as well. According to the CDC, only four states (Hawaii, Colorado, Connecticut and Vermont) had obesity prevalence rates less than 20 percent, while 17 states had prevalence rates equal to or greater than 25 percent. In a recent BBC America program, in the U.K. obesity is approaching 25% of the population.

In addition, more television means less communication with others both inside and outside the home. When the television is on for hours each day, it’s much more difficult to have real conversations with the people in your life. Over time, less communication means weaker relationships and less of other important things in your life.

So what can you do? Well...turn off the television and begin to use tools that can develop your mind in a positive and productive manner! And, the good news is that there are many great self-improvement systems in print that have content on how your can develop your mental powers of concentration, thinking and more. In addition, there are many that give you the strategies to improve your positive, quality INTERPERSONAL (i.e., face-to-face) communication with others, that can lead to wealth, prosperity and abundance in your life. In fact, if you look at many successful people today, you will see that they are master communicators.

In addition, look for resources that show you how know to use the tools of consciousness and wisdom to find the spiritual power within you. The goal of which is to become less focused on “the Self” and more focused on the truth that will lead you to happiness. Communication with others will be improved, and the doors to a life of abundance will open for you.

MOTIVATE yourself and take time to develop your mind and spirit. Turn off the television. And even take some time away from the iPod and Blackberry. Put them aside. Don’t worry, they will still be there waiting for you.

Every action you take defines your life. Wake up, become aware and take action today to make your mind “sharp as a tack”.

Copyright 2008 by Keith A. Shaw and Mind Body Spirit Central.com, LLC.