Rebecca

Why sometimes do even the smallest events send us into a downward spiral? Whether we're aware of it or not, our feelings and outlook are constantly shaped by learned patterns, or habitual modes of being. These have the power to dictate our sense of wellbeing and our very perceptions of our lives and the world around us. These modes - distinct orchestrations of how we think and feel, how we act and interact - can open us up to delight and wisdom or preoccupy us with fear and despair, driving and distorting our experiences like invisible puppeteers of the mind.

Alchemists sought to transform lead into gold. In the same way, says Tara Bennett-Goleman, we all have the natural ability to turn our moments of confusion and emotional pain into insightful clarity. Emotional Alchemy maps the mind and shows how, according to recent advances in cognitive therapy, most of what troubles us falls into ten basic emotional patterns, including fear of abandonment, social exclusion (the feeling we don't belong), and vulnerability (the feeling that some catastrophe will occur).

The difference between the life you want and the life you have is you! So what are you waiting for? Michelle Bridges knows what it feels like to face your fears, chase your dreams and handle setbacks - she's been there too and has come out stronger through self-belief, hard work and having a plan.

It's no secret that in today's world, the odds of staying in shape are against women. Between leading successful careers, raising children, and physiologically being at a disadvantage to remain lean and trim, women must work twice as hard as men do at fighting away body fat.