Recently in Spirituality Category

What does it mean?  It means to be sympathetic or empathic of another's condition, be it pain and suffering, deep emotions, problems - and to do something about it.

This week, author Karen Armstrong ("A History of God" and other books) made her compassion for others come alive.  She gave a talk, answering the challenge of the TED Award (Technology, Entertainment, Design) describing her dream of a "Charter for Compassion," a website and collective that assists others in affirming their compassion for others.  She won the 2008 prize with her talk, and her dream.

Just this week, the dream went online in the form of The Charter for Compassion, funder by the Fetzer Institute.  Here's how they describe it:

The Charter of Compassion is a cooperative effort to restore not only compassionate thinking but, more importantly, compassionate action to the center of religious, moral and political life. Compassion is the principled determination to put ourselves in the shoes of the other, and lies at the heart of all religious and ethical systems. One of the most urgent tasks of our generation is to build a global community where men and women of all races, nations and ideologies can live together in peace. In our globalized world, everybody has become our neighbor, and the Golden Rule has become an urgent necessity.

The Charter, crafted by people all over the world and drafted by a multi-fath, multi-national council of thinkers and leaders, seeks to change the conversation so that compassion becomes a key word in public and private discourse, making it clear that any ideology that breeds hatred or contempt ~ be it religious or secular ~ has failed the test of our time. It is not simply a statement of principle; it is above all a summons to creative, practical and sustained action to meet the political, moral, religious, social and cultural problems of our time.

Affirm your desire to be compassionate of others, and to take action.  Join the Dalai Lama, Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, Nobel Peace Prize winners, government leaders, artists, actors, writers, mothers and fathers, and people of all kids.  Visit http://charterforcompassion.org/ and share the dream.

While a lot of us are having a hard time keeping food OFF the table, 1 in 7 Americans are finding it hard to put food ON the table this year.  So reports a study from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

In this nation, and era of abundance, it's hard to imagine that there are those who cannot afford food and go hungry.  Sadly, it's true.

Here's a report from the RNS, the Religion News Service, via Beliefnet news.

Let's say prayers for those who cannot find enough food.  Let's take action and contribute money to hunger programs, help stock food pantries and soup kitchens.  You may even have the desire to volunteer, putting your love and compassion for others into action.

Beliefnet is the place for everything Thanksgiving.  We have recipes, turkey recipes, stuffing recipes, crafts, prayers, inspiration, videos, e-cards - everything!  This American holiday is a special one, filled with family, friends, food, and gratitude.

Here are a few wonderful Thanksgiving treats for you and your family:

A Comprehensive "Thanksgiving 2009" guide, with all the trimmings.

A Gallery of Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes

Not Necessarily Healthy, but Beloved Thanksgiving Recipes

A Vegetarian Thanksgiving

Some Multifaith Prayers for Thanksgiving


I wish you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday, filled with love, happiness and thanks.

______

THIS IS THE LAST DAY TO REGISTER FOR MY UPCOMING RETREAT, "THE DIVINE EXPERIENCE" AT KRIPALU IN WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS.  PLEASE JOIN ME FOR A PRAYERFUL, RESTFUL WEEKEND.  Kripalu is a natural, whole-life spiritual resort with homemade foods, massage, aroma and Ayruveda therapies, meditation, yoga, entertainment - a total indulgence for the body, mind and heart.

Q: I wonder that God doesn't have enough to do without hearing about my weight problem. So many crises, so much death and turmoil in the world, so many real problems to deal with. How can I possibly ask for help for something I have done to myself?

A: First of all, I could never for a second presume to speak for God. But I also would never set my own limits on what is important to God or diminish the awesome gift of my life to say or think that I am not important enough (as a child of God) to ask Him for help. I agree with you - I caused my overweight problems. I own them, and acknowledge I "did it to myself." It was an innocent self-abuse, though. I couldn't stop myself from overeating and being sedentary. I honestly didn't have the power to help myself.

Most importantly, the biggest mistake I made was to rely on something material for my sense of self, and satisfaction. I cheated myself by believing that food was my safety and salvation from the pain of living. Put it in one way - I worshipped food as a graven, false image, instead of God. I put desserts and second-helpings in the way of my connection to my Creator. Isn't that a real problem? It sure was to me. I was near death; I was in a major crisis. I was dying. I was eating and smoking myself to death. I was committing slow suicide.

Was I not important to God? Did He not want to save a life, and bring one lost soul to His side? God did save me. I did ask for help in desperation, and got infinite grace and peace in abundance. Was I wrong to do it? I leave that to God to decide. But now I sure want to honor the gift of life I have been given - I do it by helping others, and continuing to look to God for everything in my life. And God continues to help me, and others, in amazing graceful generosity - no matter how big or small the problem - God is here, right now and ready. Just ask.

_____

Want to Know God?  Let's ask for help together at my next retreat, "The Divine Experience" at Kripalu in western Massachussets.  Sign up today, spaces are limited.

Beliefnet's Holly Rossi (Fresh Living) has just written a new gallery of ideas and great photos.  It's called 21 Simple Ways to Be Healthy.
 
This is a good list, of easy, simple, free ways to either get healthy or stay that way.

I have a lot of ideas to add: keep your weight at a minimum, be sure to have lots of vegetables and some fruit every day, take warm soak baths with bubbles, trade massages with your spouse or friends, enroll in a healthy class or retreat (many are free or low cost) such as dancing, yoga or a spirituality workshop.  Those are just a few -- keep coming back everyday for more, please!

Do YOU have some ideas and practices to add to this fine list?  Please comment below!

_______

Please join me at my upcoming "Experiencing the Divine" weekend retreat in western Massachusetts, at Kripalu Yoga and Health Center.  Let's give our problems to God, together, in Kripalu's peaceful and lovely atmosphere of joy and happiness.


For years I thought it took will power to make major changes in my life, such as getting healthy, finding a job or losing weight.  In the middle of doing it, though, and falling flat on my face a bunch...

Meet Helene, a woman who has lost 50 pounds and kept it off over 23 years. See if you can relate to her words..."I was out on my own the first time (in my early 20's) and started to meet...

A wake up call, that's what suffering offers us, according to the poet and writer, Scott Cairns.  Suffering is not about the pain and hardship, per se - we need to look past suffering to what is beyond.  "The End...

Today, All Saint's Day, I'm thankful for the wind, today. I love how it blows life into everything - especially me! I love how the wind moves the clouds, and the leaves on the trees, and how the birds ride...

Can prayer help with weight loss? I believe owning a weight problem and having the courage to surrender and ask God for help is the best way possible. Call it prayer, spiritual communication, meditation, or simply belief--just do it--because...

We know Halloween comes every year on October 31, and it's Hallowe'en - short for All Hallow's Eve.  Halloween is actually an old Pagan feast, a Celtic New Year called Samhain, or "summer's end."  What is it all about, other...

A lot of people believe in affirming. I believe in using whatever works to lose weight and get healthy. Have you ever tried verbally affirming? Check it out. Try saying one of these lines to yourself: "I am God's creation,...

You are a believer in God, right?  Or by another name, Higher Power, Lord, Spirit - that great Creator of you and me, who is always there no matter what may come.  You believe in God and His power, right? ...

Please tell me what you'd like me to talk and write about that is most helpful to you.  This is not only a blog, it's a community of those of us who love God (or Higher Power, Spirit, et al)...

Here's what I'm serving to some dear friends tonight for supper, a lasagna big in flavor but small in calories and fat.  It's a meatless recipe, using root vegetables from the garden; kind of the last of this year's harvest. ...

Here's a way to eat less by actually eating (and drinking) more. Before your meal or snack, drink a large, 16oz glass of water, and eat a little fruit or vegetables. Drinking water is so good for you, in so...

Look around you, Spirit is everywhere. Big and powerful, tiny and invisible all at the same time, in harmony. See God in simple, little things: a dog's tail wagging, a cat purring just because you're near. A leaf falling from...

Please take time to be silent every day, if only for a few minutes. This will help you immeasurably in your program for wellness of body, mind, and soul. Find a quiet place, and just sit and close your eyes....

How are you doing with food?  Are you eating healthy foods, in moderate or small amounts?  Or is your eating out-of-control, are you fast and furiously stuffing as much food into your mouth as possible?If you're feeling empty and constantly...

A question from a reader: What do you do if small portions don't fill you up?I recommend eating six small meals throughout the day: one serving (USDA Food Guide Pyramid size) of grains, protein (meat or dairy), and a fruit...

Each week, at the end of the week, I try to feature weight loss comments from our readers that I think are right on-track.  These tips are sound advice from people who are in the process of being healthy.  I...

Today is my birthday (Sept. 30) and here's a brand-new video recipe for a very low-fat, low calorie yogurt fruit snack.  It was a lot of fun to make, and I hope it's helpful to you. Just to recap (in...

I was in New York City the other day, riding the subway, and saw one of these new ads: "Are You Pouring on the Pounds?"  Take a look at the ad: it's striking.  That soda becomes gooey-globs of fat in...

A great way to understand what's going on in your life, in your habits and actions, thoughts and needs, is to write about it.Keep a journal or diary. Write what you're thinking and doing. Talk on paper about what and...

There's nothing like a spiritual community where you can feel instantly understood and appreciated for what you believe in and experience. You'll hear other people's experiences, too, which often helps you to deepen your own. There are religious, church based...

ABC television is running a new series on the Ten Commandments, on "ABC News Nightline" click here to check it out online here.  You probably know or remember, the 10 Commandments are the guides to living given by God to...

There's a United Nations initiative for peace: on Monday September 21, a suggested moment at noon (EST) they're calling "A Million Minutes for Peace."  The idea is for as many people around the world to gather together for silence or...

Do you feel like you just can't lose weight, no matter how hard you try? Do you feel like you've tried everything? Are you on the brink of giving up? I can't blame you. Losing weight seems really hard, if...

I recommend signing up for a recreation class, and faithfully attending it.  It's like going to a party!  You can quickly make some friends, and move, and stretch and feel good.  It important to find the right group, though, where...

Did Patrick Swayze "lose" his battle with pancreatic cancer?  Many news reports said so, as they were reporting his death.  I believe he won.In his movie, "Ghost," the key moment of the whole film, at the end, was his saying...

Aren't we blessed to be alive? Isn't it wonderful to be human: To give and receive love, to have dreams and aspirations, to learn and change? Let's take time together to see what bountiful blessings we have today, instead...

Unsure if you need to lose weight? Don't pay attention to most of those insurance company charts - they're designed to make the premiums higher. Don't compare yourself to fashion magazines or TV shows - they're the smallest percentage of...

Gosh, we've had a lot of comments and traffic from that blog I wrote the other day on healthcare, Obama healthcare reform, and on America's health care system.  I'm so glad people are voicing their opinion here!  I'm sad that...

As we mark September 11th,  or 9/11 again this year.  I have a few thoughts.I remember the lost souls, the innocent workers, and the fearless first-responders and say a prayer for them all.  I remember the moment, the uncertainty, the...

Emerson wrote, "There's no wound a garden trowel won't heal."  He was so right!  I got up very early this morning, and started my day digging the soil, applying compost, and planting seeds.  It was a little bit of hard...

Get yourself a "Beliefnet Spiritual Weight Loss Buddy." Find a friend or person who is following the "Joy of Weight Loss Plan" or some other healthy diet and do it with them (or share yours).Post a comment below, and ask...

I find the best way to move on and recover from low self-esteem, is to get moving. Wrap yourself around a project.  Get work done.  Distract yourself.If you feel that you're worthless, try doing something that can show yourself as...

Remember that great feeling right after a really healthy meal?  That sense you get of having had food that's so good, and good for you?  It comes from eating really healthy food in appropriate quantities, and really appreciating God's great...

I was interested in what Mary wrote here about the Food Lovers Fat Loss weight loss program, commenting about my Food Lovers Fat Loss System Review.  She seems to think that we don't need to buy any program, just observe...

Last week, I wrote about surrendering your problems to God.  Last month, I wrote about surrendering your problems to God.  Have you tried it yet?  I encourage you to right now.A way to really solve your weight problems (and all...

Have you ever been to an anonymous support group meeting? They can be really interesting and valuable and you meet people you can relate to, because they're having similar experiences with being overweight. You can also discover cool groups at...

I'm pretty happy that they've taken the "F" out of KFC.  Now it should be KGC, for Kentucky Grilled Chicken.  The massive chain has begun grilling instead of frying everything.  Be careful, though, there's still lots of fat, sugar and...

This is an easy and very tasty low-fat and healthy dish that will leave you very satisfied.  You can grill, bake or boil the chicken.  Serves 3-4.  Add a half cup of brown or wild rice on the side, if...

Didn't do so well on your food plan yesterday? Today's a new day. Couldn't find time to be active, go outside, play, or have fun yesterday? Today's a new day. Make sure to take good care of yourself today, because...

My wife treated me to a special date last night.  We went to hear Jonny Lang, the amazing 20-something rock-blues singer-guitarist.  Amazing he was - we both said that was one of the best concerts we've ever been to.  If...

Thanks to all who have been commenting.  It's so fun and full-filling to read what you write!  Your comments make me happy, even the tough ones.  So PLEASE keep them coming.  Also, tell your friends about this amazing, growing online...

When we're disconnected from God (or Spirit, or Higher Power), we're on our own. We have to handle everything ourselves. We often worry a lot, because we're not sure of what will come, and unsure of how to handle what...

Another entry in the "you may want to know" category: following a Mediterranean Diet and daily exercise may reduce later risks of developing Alzheimer's Disease.  Vegetables, Fruit, Fish, Whole Grains, beans - little or no red meat and poultry -...

When planning your day, make sure to keep it simple. Don't try to do too many things, eat too much, or forget to include some joyful activity. Remember your "Joy of Weight Loss" food plan. Pick foods that you will...

How would your life be different if you were able to lose 10, 20, 50 or 100 pounds?  I'm sure you've thought about that a lot, but I believe it's a good idea to "keep it fresh" as they say...

What is the main thought that keeps running through your mind?  Is it positive and helpful?  You know you can change it if you need to. God gives us the power of free will and free thinking. If you think: ...

Do you ever feel anxious or depressed? If so, how do you help yourself feel better? If you're like I once was, you may eat to feel better. I used to douse my troubles in food. Some people use alcohol...

I really like what FouFou wrote in her comment this week, in response to my "Fat and What is Behind it" article.Here it is:"Physical, emotional and spiritual is the guide to us those who are seeking to loose weight. I...

Before you eat, ask yourself, "How truly hungry am I?" Then put your hunger on a scale from 1 to 5.  This can help you become conscious of the link between your mind, body, and your eating habits.Five is super...

It just plain hurts to watch "More to Love," the new TV series about plus-sized contestants.  I think I figured it out, though, it's because the show's a macrocosm of all that went wrong with America.It's largely (pardon the pun)...

I want to assure you that it is possible to change, and make your life the best it can be with spiritual help and committed action. ALL IT TAKES IS THE DESIRE TO CHANGE, FOLLOWED BY ACTION. That combination is...

OK, what's so bad about you? Are you really that worthless? Are you really so fat and ugly? Do you really deserve the harsh judgment and low self-esteem you throw on yourself? Is your life really that difficult? Or are...

How can I stop myself from eating when I'm not hungry? It's often hard to realize you may be eating for reasons besides a nutritional need! You may be simply just eating out of habit, boredom, or to distract from...

I just want to take a moment to say that I care about you.  Sure, it's true, I may not know you directly, or even by name.  I care about you, though, dear reader.That's why I write this daily message.I...

I have some ideas for those of you who say they have tried everything to lose weight and get healthier.  Here are two:First, check with your doctor to make sure you're totally OK, and don't have some underlying health condition...

I hear this frequently: a loved one (child, relative, friend) has an obesity problem, and they want to help.  Here's what I suggest in such difficult situations.-- Realize that you have no direct control over them.-- Pick the best moment...

Let me ask you: are your overeating habits and pleasure more important than your life?It really comes down to that life or death question.Is the brownie ice-cream sundae dessert, and regular daily desserts worth a heart attack or stroke because...

0 false 18 pt 18 pt 0 0 false false false /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New...

0 false 18 pt 18 pt 0 0 false false false /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New...

A prominent digestive system surgeon I know recently confided in me, "we hate doing gastric bypass surgeries, but our hospital makes us do them because they're a profit center."  I asked him why his surgical team hated them.  His explanation...

Are you extremely concerned with your eating - perhaps too much?  If you starve yourself, or follow extremely limited calorie consumption, or binge and then make yourself vomit, or compulsively overeat, it's time to get help.Eating disorders are very real,...

This comment brought tears to my eyes; tears of love for God, and appreciation for all that I have.I don't know who wrote it, but thank you so much.  It's eloquent."I watched as Stevie Wonder sang that hauntingly beautiful song,...

At night, when you're struggling to not binge, go outside and look up at the stars. Gaze for a long time. Think about how far away they are. So big, so vast and expansive is our cosmos. How beautiful.  Think...

The act of eating is a deeply spiritual and sacred experience. When you put food into your body, you are giving yourself life energy. You are taking something that was once living (animals and plants who have given their lives...

A regular reader asks, How do I surrender my weight problems to God? Simple - just ask for help. Try something like this: Say a silent prayer to God, who lives inside you and is a part of you,...

Even though there's been so much coverage of Michael Jackson's tragic and early death, I am still interested in him.  I always loved his music and entertainment, and probably always will, yet there will be nothing more from him now,...

My favorite comment this week is by Pam."I met J5 and spoke with them briefly when Michael was around 11/12. I was impressed with how soft spoken and well mannered they all were. Although I did not care for the...

There I was at the vacation hotel breakfast bar with the crowd of morbidly obese Americans.  I was having breakfast with them, embarrassed, doing my best to eat very slowly and having a very small amount of food.It was hard...

I was totally shocked at a hotel breakfast bar last weekend.  More than half the customers were morbidly obese, and having plate-after-plate of food.  One couple who could barely fit into their seats was particularly sad: the man had four...

Some people do well in gyms and health clubs, but most of my clients and readers do not.  Most people I know who have zealously joined gyms have gone for a few days and then stopped, wasting tons of money,...

Florence Serecka wrote a very inspiring comment awhile back, commenting on my blog, "Lose Weight with God."  It stuck with me, and stayed with me for a month now, and I want to share it with you.  I wanted to...

A lot of readers have been asking why the lost weight comes back, despite diligent efforts.  While I cannot answer everybody's specific problems, and it would be inappropriate for me to do that, I do often try to generally address...

I'm shocked and saddened this morning over our friend, MIchael Jackson's death.  I'm also happy for him that he is now with his maker, after such a wild life of extremes.There's an infinite amount being said and written about him,...

Here's another idea to add to this month's collection of ideas and ways to save and lose weight at the same time.  Today I want to suggest a healthy cooking party!Invite a few friends over, say 3 or 4, and...

Sonya A. said it all, "For the majority of my life I "chose" to imprison myself with food, low self-esteem and weight issues, it was not until recently with a much renewed connection to All Mighty God that I am...

Not long ago I wrote about how to "Lose Weight with God."  It's my favorite topic! God, that is, not just weight loss!   Here's the article: click here.Marie wrote an absolutely beautiful comment awhile back,"I have battled weight all my...

I have a surprise for YOU!  This entire month, I will be offering you ways to save money and lose weight at the same time.  I'll offer new recipes for cooking healthy, low-cost meals and snacks; ideas for filling yourself...

Take the time to get together with people who are spiritual. It's called "fellowship" and it's really valuable and wonderful. There's nothing like a spiritual community where you can feel instantly understood and appreciated for what you believe in and...

Two reader's comments struck me this morning as being on-target. One about mysteries of self-abuse, the other about the power of spiritual practice.  Not a direct problem and answer counterpoint, but somehow, these relate.  I hope they will for you,...

What's your family genetic history? We all have good genes, and not-so-good genes. It's best to be informed and aware, so that you can make choices to have the best, longest life possible. Knowing your genetic tendencies allows you to...

Put your thoughts about moving your body aside, and get up and do it.  Don't think about it.  Don't think about finding the time, the time is now.  Don't think about how hard it will be, just simply move.  Don't...

How do you lose weight with God?  Simple, just ask Him for help.  A lot of readers have asked me to write more about this.  Funny, that's what I've written about the most in the last 9 years!  I fear...

Comparing yourself to others can backfire.  Be sure to appreciate the good things about yourself, and acknowledge your hardships and efforts, too.  This is an important point.  I'm glad that an anonymous poster commented about this, this week, in response...

Are your weight problems affecting your relationship with God? If you look to food for comfort and satisfaction, instead of God, you may be missing an opportunity. If you are isolated, lonely inside your house, avoiding an active and engaged...

If you haven't seen or heard about Connie Culp, the lady who is the recipient of one of the first face transplants, you may want to.  She has been through so many traumas, pain, and humiliation - yet sought help...

Find yourself tense, stressed, muscles all tight?  Worried about something? Fearful of what is next?Here is what I do when I'm in that dark, deep place:-- take a deep breath.-- tell God I love Him.-- ask Him to show me...

I just joined the ranks of those who Twitter. www.twitter.com    drnorrischumley (my Twitter nickname).Sign up for my latest weight loss and wellbeing news, my personal (insider) comments, and lots of prayers and praises.I'd love to have you as a...

I want to thank you so much for your kind words of condolences about my Father-In-Law's passing.  I feel your love and warmth very much, and my wife does, too.Here's the prayer I wrote for him last week, in case...

This week brought lots of deep and insightful comments, particularly from last week's article, "What I learned from Easter and Passover."  Please take a look and add your comment to it.So many people opened up and shared their pain, heartache...

Listen to the birds chirping. See them flying. In the day, they're out in the air and sunshine. At night, they perch on a limb. They gather food when they're hungry. They eat what they like; as much as feels...

While most people of the world struggle for enough to eat, those of us with weight problems have too much, and eat too much. What a paradox! Obesity isn't just a disease of poverty, either--many people with little or no...

We have all been told that comparing ourselves with others is not such a great idea.  When we look at others and measure ourselves comparatively, we often come up short.  If we see or think that they have what we...

Monica posted an absolutely heart-wrenching comment this week.  This made me cry when I read it.  I felt like all my worries and burdens were practically nothing when I heard all she has lost, and how her love for God...

This season, the lesson to be learned for me is that less is more, and that sacrifice to God brings freedom and life.  This worldwide recession is forcing us to make sacrifices - spend less money and make more, or...

There's a lot of talk these days about eating less, calorie restriction and fasting.  Not just because of Lent, but finding easy, or easier ways to have less food so that weight loss and weight maintenance can at last be...

What makes you happy?  Is it losing weight and keeping it off?  Having a lot of money, lots of cool stuff, and living a rich life?  Is it that happiness depends on being famous or well-known?  None of the above...

Losing weight, being healthy, straightening up finances, healing and mending troubled relationships -- all are about making changes.  Living life, being satisfied with what is, and what we have, not always questing for something out-of-reach.  Loving what there is and...

I just love the breath of fresh air that I felt when I read Cheri's comment this week, in response to the column I wrote on "Hope is Grace,"  and I featured it in a "Dr. Norris Chumley Satisfied Life"...

In order to lead a healthy, happy life, focus on positive things. Make a list of at least three details of your life that give you happiness. Go ahead, take five minutes right now to think about what gives you...

I'd love to know if you meditate or practice silence every day.  Please post a comment below, and tell me and our readers about how you're solving stress through silence and meditation.If you are an emotional overeater, or if you...

Cindy put it all in perspective when she wrote, "To me, a satisfied life means enjoying everyday, spreading joy, believing, looking forward and not worrying."That feels like a breath of fresh air for me this morning. Thanks so much Cindy. ...

Here's an idea you may enjoy trying. As you take your shower for the day, imagine that you are not only washing your body, but that you are also washing your psyche! Imagine that the stress from your fears, worries...

Please add your thoughts and feel free to confide your problems in last week's posting, "Confidentially Relived,"  I really appreciate what you wrote.  We are all in this life together, and the Internet is a great way for us to...

What does having a "satisfied life" mean to you?  Join the discussion and tell us.Given that the spirit and substance of this daily column is a "satisfied life,"  my editor, Holly, suggested it would be a great idea to start...

Oh my, yesterday I just did not want to go to the 4th of a 6-week yoga intensive class.  I'd had a big lunch with a business client, and truthfully, a couple of glasses of wine.  I felt too full. ...

I highly recommend that you confide in someone today.  Telling someone your problems can really help you feel relief, and also get a fresh perspective.  Please tell us your problems, anonymously if you like, by posting below.  We are in...

Just a short thought for your day:  When you put your faith in God, you let go of your problems.  They're not all up to you anymore.  The act of faith of putting your problems into God's hands is itself,...

This week is absolutely amazing in terms of comments!  We've set a record!  Never before have we had more comments on a subject.  They are all truly interesting and amazing - and I cannot pick just one to feature today. ...

What blessings are there in your life?  What's really going well and right that you are thankful for?  Please tell us below by posting a comment.  I have found that counting my blessings and sharing them with others really helps...

Today let's do a Question and Answer, which I like to do from time-to-time.  If you have a question for me post it in a comment. Occasionally I will answer general questions as best I can, especially ones that most...

It's an old adage, but it's true. Time heals all. There's no problem that won't get better with passing time, and some care and attention. Give your problems time, especially when it comes to losing weight. You did not develop...

I can't help feeling and thinking that I am on the verge, like most of us these days.  On the verge, or edge, of a lot, good or bad.  It's an uncomfortable and tenuous position to be in, like "on...

What do you believe when it comes to God?  Do you belong to or attend a church, synagogue or temple -- if so, which one?  Please post a comment below right now and tell us.  Let's do our own little...

My wife brought home a small jasmine tree last year.  The whole family loved its beautiful green leaves and heavenly fragrances.  It spent springtime happy as can be on our kitchen windowsill.  Then in the summer it resided outdoors, thriving...

Even though you may be struggling with life problems as all of us are, please remember that all is not lost, nothing is impossible, and hope lives.  Why?  There is hope because we believe in and love God.You may have...

Every morning I begin my day with some coffee and the news.  I've done this for decades.  It is my morning wake-up routine, and I am used to it. What's really news is that I am starting to see that...

This past week has been a very active one on this website, and I for one am impressed and inspired.  There have been quite a few comments posted, especially in response to my articles on Scales, Fasting, and the major...

For many Christians, this is a time of great awareness, a time in the year called Lent, a preparation for Easter.  It's the annual time to be aware of our beliefs and faith, to love the many gifts that God,...

I just got an email from a longtime friend in Indiana, Michael White, who is a very talented singer and composer.  He and another friend made a really moving video at Christmas about having "A Wonderful Life."Please take a look...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6eUZBQ0L_EYThere...

This morning I jumped on our bathroom scales, as I do every month.  I like to check to see what I weigh, to keep my 160-pound weight maintenance on track.I only weigh myself once a month, because I know that...

We've now gone through a long period of economic woes, and we are making it through.  Yes times are hard, harder than we've ever known or experienced.  It's true it is not over, but there is hope and we're going...

Alas, the meal is done.  I've reached my limit and it is time to stop eating.Pity it is.  A sad moment that I dreaded would come with each bite, but I ignored the inevitable in favor of flavor.Now it is...

Thank you's to everyone who read this blog regularly, and big thank you's to those who posted this week.A lot of people ask me questions; too many for me to answer here although I will from time-to-time if it seems...

So you slipped off your food plan, and had a few ice-cream sundaes, or a bag of chips or cookies. I know you regretted it! Use this episode and learn from it. Study how you felt afterward:Did you feel stuffed,...

Did you make a mistake? No problem. No surprise. Everyone makes mistakes. Admit it. Correct it with God's assistance. Learn from it. Mistake gone. No problem. Problems arise when we cling tight to OUR way, not God's way, or fail...

A lot of folks commented recently here about what's working and what is not in their lives, in order to be their healthiest.  Lori wrote, "At reaching 60 you can imagine I've tried every diet out there over the years. The...

Spring is almost here, and love is in the air!  Valentine's Day is upon us, hooray!Valentine's Day, as we know it, is a celebration of love.  Love is itself a celebration of others.  To love one another is to treasure,...

I'm finding Janice Taylor and my online blog conversation very, very revealing!  Janice and I have gone in just four little days from hunger for weight loss, brownies, to diets, carbohydrates, to grandmothers and mothers, to hungry, starving people that...

There are really no coincidences in life, God has everything planned, I've been told, and sometimes it seems true, like today.This morning I was reading Janice Taylor's contribution to our online conversation and there was an ad on her blog...

Hello.  This is Day 30 of my 30 Tips to start your New Year.  Of course, it's only a beginning!  You don't need the beginning of a new year to make resolutions to be healthy and happy.  I suggest you...

Do you forget from Who and where everything in life comes from?  It comes from God.  Do you forget the good things you have, and about the good things that you are?  You are very worthy of some recognition, being...

Just as we humans are made up of a lot of different parts, our digestive system is too.  If we don't use every part of ourselves, we short-change ourselves from experiences and opportunities.  Just like in digestion if we don't...

A lot of people are looking at life dramas these days.  President Obama wants "no drama,"  and Mary K. Blige says "No More Dramas" in her song by the same title.Are you in the middle of a drama?  Is life...

I wrote about the importance of relationships the other day.  I said that I have noticed that when people are getting enough love and affection, they tend to have less problems with excess weight and health.  Happy people have fewer...

I know from working with many weight loss clients, individually and in groups, helping with diet, nutrition, exercise, emotions and spiritual practices - that a lot of overweight and obesity problems are greatly relieved through relationships.  If you're happy and...

I just want to say THANK YOU for those of you who reached out, posted your feelings and needs, and for those who responded.We're a truly remarkable, caring, and loving group.  I'm honored to be a part of this wonderful...

If you are an emotional overeater, or if you eat to change moods such as feeling upset, stressed, or a bit down - try giving yourself some peace and comfort by meditating.  What is meditation?  There are many forms, some...

This country was founded on the principle that we are "One Nation, Under God, Indivisible."  To me that means we work together and celebrate each other, our individuality, independence, and interdependence.There's a really cool, new initiative a lot of us...

Sometimes, it's easy to get all wrapped-up in your problems.  You may be thinking a million thoughts: things you have to do, problems weighing on you, people to see, work, family, friends, your own misery and suffering, finding energy to...

Have you ever thought that the excess weight you're carrying may be due to something very heavy that's weighing on you?  It's not just the fat.Have you ever really, truly, told someone about your true feelings and needs when they...

Here's a very powerful technique: it's about connecting with and praising God, and thinking of Him with everything you do and eat.It's simple - just keep God in mind.  When you wake up in the morning, your first thought or...

Confide your problems and worries to a clergy member or trusted friend.  You've probably heard the adage, "it's not just what you're eating, it's what's eating you."Are you letting the weight of your body become an emotional weight on your...

This little book, "The Soulmate Secret," written by Arielle Ford (January 2009, HarperOne), could bring miracles in your love life, as it did for her and her BIG LOVE soulmate, Brian Hilliard.The ancient Law of Attraction is at play here...

As much as we need food to nurture our bodies and minds, we need emotional and spiritual food for the psyche and soul, too.  It may seem odd, but to lose weight and maintain healthy changes, make sure to nourish...

I just loved this short, simple little comment.  It meant a lot to me.  It's by Patricia L. Mitchum, who wrote on the subject of New Year's Resolutions:"Remember to not let people bother me or discourage me. Feelings should not...

If you are trying to lose weight and be healthy, being conscious and mindful of your diet (what you can eat), and being thankful to God can really help.Before eating, take a few moments to be silent.  While sitting at...

Lose weight, feel better and enjoy The Dr. Norris Chumley Satisfied Life in this simple stress-free plan.  No dieting, no intense exercises, no New Year's Resolutions, no Sassy Water (!) just Common Sense and good health.Happy New Year!  I'm most...

It is deep winter and it has been very cold up north.  There is lots of snow on the ground; ice on the roads and sidewalks make moving treacherous.  The trees are bare.  The birds are searching non-stop for scarce...

I love the comments everyone made this week.  So many great thoughts and experiences on detoxing, fasting, sugar addiction, nighttime eating, Spirit, Reasons for the Season, and on and on.  Wow!  We have such a great community here.  Please return...

As a Christian, a follower of Christ, I love the Christmas holiday not only because it is a time of celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, but also that it is a time of hope and transcendence.  If you...

As snow begins to fall and the deep freeze of winter sets in, we again gather with family and friends, singing and dancing around the Christmas tree or lighting the menorah or Kwanzaa candles. All will be well as we...

We'd probably all love to hear what hopes, joys, challenges and gratitude you are experiencing this Holiday Season.Please comment below, right now, and I'll pull a few together and add my own in an article shortly.Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Good...

Try this meditation today. It's very peaceful. Do it BEFORE you overeat. Sit comfortably and close your eyes. Focus your mind's attention on your breathing: in and out, in and out. Do this for as long as you can. End...

I just had a little lunch with an old friend.  He reminds me of the way things are in the world right now - we're lucky to have what we have.He said he was worried he was about to lose...

I am SO delighted today.Not just because I am alive again today (yes, God woke me up this morning and I thank Him).  Not just because it is a beautiful day.  Not just because I am so lucky to be...

Life is really very simple. Love God with everything you've got, in every way, and stop worrying. That may sound too simple, but if you test it day by day in your own life, as I have, you'll find that...