Blog post updated September 9, 2024 by Teresa Jade LeYung, 2018 alumna of A PLACE OF HER OWN

Cynthia Tom, founding director of A PLACE OF HER OWN, says:

Join our Closing Celebration on September 15, 2024 from 12pm-3pm as we lift and are lifted by the collective and individual strength from our PLACE artists! They have wholeheartedly embraced the full spectrum of emotions, from discomfort to joy, fostering new connections and personal growth — all for you to witness in real time through this found-object based art exhibition.

Our close friend and dear supporter of PLACE, Ravi Chandra MD also wrote a great piece about the show titled, “Intergenerational Trauma and Ancestral Pattern Shifting” on Psychology Today you must check out when you have the chance!

That being said, come to our final festivities, invite your friends and family and be inspired with this exhibition one last time!

Sept 15, 2024 Closing Celebration: Gallery 12– 3pm
Location: J-SEI Cultural Center, 1285 66th St, Emeryville, CA 94608 USA

Artists include: Ahran Lee, Amy Lam, AVOTCJA, Christina Yu, Christine Yang, Cueponcaxochitl Moreno Sandoval, Cynthia Tom, Deborah Santana, Emily Yamauchi, Frances Cachapero, Irene Wibawa, Jazz Diaz, Julie Lee Andersen, Katie Quan, Manon Wada with Sanié Bokhari, Martha Zamora, PAZ, Purla Montiel, Reyna Daudian, Shari Arai DeBoer, Tomo Hirai, Yeujin Yoon, Zaina Rose

Intergenerational Trauma and Ancestral Pattern Shifting

Healing intergenerational trauma through art

Ravi Chandra M.D., D.F.A.P.A.

The Pacific Heart

https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/the-pacific-heart/202408/bipoc-people-and-the-art-of-ancestral-pattern-shifting

updated August 21, 2024 Reviewed by Michelle Quirk

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Bonjour everyone!

I cheer for Cynthia Tom and everyone connected to Cynthia’s programs and events !

August 11 – September 15, 2024

A PLACE OF HER OWN

found-object based art Exhibition

Founder of A PLACE OF HER OWN / Teacher / Artist / Curator CYNTHIA TOM   says:

August 11 – September 15, 2024

A PLACE OF HER OWN Exhibition

You are invited to view this found-object based art exhibition. PLACE multi-ethnic, multi-generational alumni artists share their healing journeys and the art created in answer to the question, “If you had a place of your own, what would it be?”

Using found objects, their intuition and self-agency, they create works that speak to their healing journeys, imperfect, messy and gloriously full of epiphanies.

Co-curated by Cynthia Tom and Jillie Andersen

 

August 11. Opening:  Gallery 12-5 pm  Recep 1pm – 4pm
August 18.  Artist Talk: Gallery 12-5 pm/ Talk 1pm – 4pm
Sept 15. Closing Celebration: Gallery 12– 3pm

Location: JSEI at 1285 66th St, Emeryville, CA 94608

Artists include: Ahran Lee, Amy Lam, AVOTCJA, Christina Yu, Christine Yang, Cueponcaxochitl Moreno Sandoval, Cynthia Tom, Deborah Santana, Emily Yamauchi, Frances Cachapero, Irene Wibawa, Jazz Diaz, Julie Lee Andersen, Katie Quan, Manon Wada with Sanié Bokhari, Martha Zamora, PAZ Zamora, Purla Montiel, Reyna Daudian, Shari Arai DeBoer, Tomo Hirai, Yeujin Yoon, Zaina Berger

https://www.aplaceofherown.org/

https://www.aplaceofherown.org/newsevents/save-the-date-a-place-of-her-own-exhibition

Cynthia Tom receives  a 2024 WOMAN WARRIOR Award from Pacific Asian American Women Bay Area Coalition.

Hearty congratulations to Cynthia Tom and all the award recipients.

Ceremony to be held on September 22, 2024 at Hotel Kabuki – JDV by Hyatt,  1625 Post Street San Francisco, CA 94115

Tickets:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-woman-warrior-awards-tickets-949421303677

Pacific Asian American Women Bay Area Coalition says:

“Join us as we honor six local Asian Pacific Islander women for their lasting contributions to the API community and notable career achievements. First bestowed in 1983, PAAWBAC is excited to carry on this tradition of recognizing accomplished API women as modern-day Woman Warriors — talented and courageous — as they distinguish themselves in their respective fields, while giving back to others.”

https://www.paawbac.org/woman-warriors-main

I cheer for Cynthia Tom and everyone connected to Cynthia’s programs, events, exhibitions !!!

Teresa Jade LeYung with her art "My Four Desks" photo by artist Irene Wibawa

A Place of Her Own 2018 Alumna /  Story Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung

wishes Everyone – Beauty, Total Wellness, Peace and Joy!

Published author, blogger, lover of Paris, FRANCE, photo historian, Writing Coach Teresa Jade LeYung says:

“I love helping writers identify the themes in their manuscripts to hook readers, and, build and fortify their platforms before and after publication. Reach out, not stress out.”
https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog

Love Made Of Heart ®

August 2024 News:

Thank you, Flo Oy Wong of Asian American Women Artists Association https://www.aawaa.net/, for sharing wonderful news:

Cynthia Tom https://www.aplaceofherown.org/ receives  a 2024 WOMAN WARRIOR Award from Pacific Asian American Woman Bay Area Coalition.

Hearty congratulations to Cynthia Tom and all the award recipients.

Ceremony to be held on September 22, 2024 at Hotel Kabuki – JDV by Hyatt,  1625 Post Street San Francisco, CA 94115

Tickets:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-woman-warrior-awards-tickets-949421303677

Pacific Asian American Woman Bay Area Coalition says:

“Join us as we honor six local Asian Pacific Islander women for their lasting contributions to the API community and notable career achievements. First bestowed in 1983, PAAWBAC is excited to carry on this tradition of recognizing accomplished API women as modern-day Woman Warriors — talented and courageous — as they distinguish themselves in their respective fields, while giving back to others.”

https://www.paawbac.org/woman-warriors-main

Cynthia_Tom_photo_by Teresa_Jade_LeYung_2019_Paris,_FRANCE img_8187

Artist Cynthia Tom says:

“My paintings are a form of visual meditations for me and I hope they can do the same for you.

“Each piece is created intuitively. It begins with a spark of an idea and allowed to evolve in its own time, even the title comes to me when its ready. Every work of art has a story to tell.

“Created with intentions for healing, wonder and resilience, I hope to spark for your imagination for a life filled with confidence, calm, delight, and fortitude.”

https://www.cynthiatom.com/

Cynthia_Tom_photo_by_Teresa_Jade_LeYung_2019_Paris,_FRANCE img_7702

Cynthia Tom is:

Cultural Surrealist | Visual Artist |Speaker and Cultural Community and Women focused Curator | Founding Director of A PLACE of HER OWN and Flying Lessons: Inquire Within workshops and lectures | Board President Emeritus – Asian American Women Artists Association

Cynthia_Tom_photo_by_Teresa_Jade_LeYung_2019_Paris,_FRANCE img_8679

A PLACE OF HER OWN™  https://www.aplaceofherown.org/

A PLACE OF HER OWN™ (PLACE) empowers community through its women. We provide trauma-informed art-based tools and thought processes, including a culturally conscious community to foster confidence, leadership, and compassion. We address generational trauma, colonization, and cultural conditioning, while promoting social justice and self-agency. Through workshops, exhibitions and presentations, we provide visibility and creative sanctuary, inviting women to define their aspirations and self-worth through intuitive art, celebrating their authentic selves.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

I thank Linda A. Harris and Tom Swan for encouraging me to see Cynthia Tom’s installation in the autumn of 2016. I thank Sue R. for giving me a ride to meet:

Tales of human trafficking from A Chinese American family’s perspective

I thank Margie Yee Webb for giving me a ride to pick up my first purchase of a Cynthia Tom painting.

I thank Sue R. for encouraging me to enroll in Cynthia’s 2018 A PLACE OF HER OWN™

Cynthia Tom with one section of her triptych 'Accepting The I Am' , Teresa_Jade_LeYung,_Margie_Yee_Webb_2017-11-18 img_4683

Renowned artist/cultural curator Cynthia Tom says: “To imagine a place of your own, for a woman, is an act of rebellion. Whether its physical or a state of mind, this concept drives self-care and love. This exhibition, the culminating phase of a 6-month healing program, is Intended to inspire, excite and ignite. It combines visual storytelling with mixed media and found objects, and insists upon new ways to re-imagine your place in the world.”

I thank Elisa Sasa Southard for helping me craft my artist statement in April 2018 when we were in Paris, FRANCE.

I thank everyone who were/are connected and supported/support and cheered/cheer for Cynthia Tom and A PLACE OF HER OWN™

Teresa_Jade_LeYung,_Cynthia_Tom,_Olga_Malyj_2019_Paris 030b

I thank Cynthia Tom who inspired me to join Asian American Women Artists Association https://www.aawaa.net/ in San Francisco, California, USA

I thank Cynthia Tom who led me to Dr. Amy Grace Lam https://www.vibrationalenergywellness.com/  and   https://www.amygracelam.com/

I thank Dr. Lam who led me to Dr. Jae Reed https://azureskychiro.com/  and   https://azureskychiro.com/meet-the-team/#jae-reed

Linda,_Cynthia,_Sasa Southard__Paris_2019.04.24_photo_by_Teresa_Jade_LeYung IMG_0753

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Here are links to a few of my blog posts that honor Cynthia Tom and everyone involved with A PLACE OF HER OWN™:

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/teresa-jade-leyung-celebrates-everyone-connected-to-artist-curator-educator-cynthia-tom-and-a-place-of-her-own/

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/theme-consultant-and-writing-coach-teresa-jade-leyung-supports-artists-who-face-hungry-ghosts/

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/cynthia-tom-to-teach-artmaking-to-access-your-identity-at-chinese-historical-society-of-america/

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/story-theme-consultant-teresa-leyung-ryan-living-beauty-full-life-as-teresa-jade-leyung/

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Thank you for reading my blog post:

“Celebrating Artist, Curator, Activist, Teacher CYNTHIA  TOM and Everyone Connected to Cynthia’s A Place Of Her Own™”

Cynthia_Tom_photo_by_Teresa_Jade_LeYung_2019_Paris,_FRANCE img_7919__

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

I wish Cynthia Tom and everyone – peace, vibrant health and happiness always!!!

Teresa Jade LeYung with her art "My Four Desks" photo by artist Irene Wibawa

Sincerely,

Teresa Jade LeYung

(cette semaine mille merci, Anna, Chandra, Deborah, Emily, Kate, Kim, Kristiane, Linda, Margaret, Margie, Maria, MaryT, Nan, Neva, Sasa, MaryT, Sabine, Sasa, Sharon, Sue, Theresa, Dr. Amy Grace Lam, Dr. Jae Reed, Dr. Kerry Lilley,  Marie-Christine Cornet, Stephanie Wilger)

Dear Readers

I wish everyone gentleness for self and for all beings.

Thank you, Chiropractor Dr. Kerry Lilley, who says: “When exhaling, release the out breath twice. Release the trauma.”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

In the book

IMMUNE:  Journey into the Mysterious System That Keeps You Alive

How The Immune System ACTUALLY Works – IMMUNE  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXfEK8G8CUI

Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007  says:

“Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes you may feel as if life isn’t worth living. More than just a bout of the blues, depression isn’t a weakness and you can’t simply “snap out” of it….”

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

Merriam-Webster dictionary https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/depression says:

– a state of feeling sad: low spirits : melancholy

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Chiropractor Dr. Kerry Lilley says: “When exhaling, release the out breath twice. Release the trauma.”

I thank:

Dr. Kerry Lilley, DC  https://chiropracticbenicia.com/,

Dr. Jae Reed, DC  https://azureskychiro.com/,

Stephanie Wilger, NC https://stephaniewilgernc.net/,

Dr. Amy Grace Lam https://www.vibrationalenergywellness.com/,

Marie-Christine Cornet https://www.mariechristinecornet.com/,

Gilles Marin https://www.chineitsang.com/,

Stephanie Doucette, M.S., L.Ac  https://www.stephaniedoucette.com/

Loduskia “Dusky” Pierce, MFT  http://www.duskyswondersite.com/

and all the healers who have taught me how to listen to my Brain-Body communicate… how to continue fostering the Smart Brain Smart Body.

I thank all my loved ones for inspiring me to follow my passion – writing – which gets me out of depression.

Thank you for reading my blog post: “Health, My Reaction to Incidents, Depression, Immune System, Stress, Chronic Stressors, Chronic Inflammation, Diseases”

I wish everyone wellness. I wish everyone gentleness for self and for all beings.

Teresa_Jade_LeYung_wishes_everyone_peace_and_wellness - photo_by_Nan_and_MEK

2021 January 11, 22:55 — January 12, 00:10; January 12, 22:18–23:28;  January 13, 14:14–15:10; 17:44–19:27; 19:56–22:36

California USA

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung says: “Look what happens when persistent (chronic) pain pathways take over the other brain functions – impacting my emotions, problem-solving, memory, creativity, and …”

 **

All graphics in this blog post are from Michael H. Moskowitz, MD & Marla D. Golden, DO

**

When Beautiful Brain is not producing pain -

 **

When Beautiful Brain is producing acute pain –

 **

When Beautiful Brain is producing persistent (chronic) pain -

 **

According to Dr. Michael Moskowitz, Dr. Marla Golden, Dr. Norman Doidge, Dr. Danielle Rosenman -

There are 9 areas in the thinking brain (actually a few more, because some are on both sides of the brain) that control our personal experience of pain and discomfort. This is where pain signals are received.  Normally, only 5% of the nerve cells in the brain process pain.  In persistent pain, 15-25% of the cells of the entire brain are involved! The actual map of the brain has changed, with an increased part of the map given to pain.  This is because the pain areas get bigger, stealing nerves and synapses (connections) from the rest of the brain.

The relationship between pain (or discomfort) and mood (includes anxiety and depression):

Remember that the brain has different areas for different functions? It’s actually more complicated than that! Many brain functions are located in the same areas or are very close together, and there are some shared connections. (Review: “Nerves that fire together wire together.”)

Dr. Moskowitz and Dr. Golden say to “flood” the brain map, interrupt pain signals with pleasurable –

- THOUGHTS

- IMAGES

- SENSATIONS

- MEMORIES

- SOOTHING EMOTIONS

- MOVEMENT

- BELIEFS

Dr. Danielle Rosenman adds: “Smile for yourself and talk out loud to your Brain.”

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung says:

“I refuse to let pain pathways hijack other Brain functions. Some days I win the steering wheel/control panel. Other days Pain/Depression win. The more consistent I give my Beautiful Brain pleasure, the more winning days I shall have.

“Dr. Danielle Rosenman (via ZOOM sessions) has guided and coached me (with techniques from Dr. Moskowitz and Dr. Golden) in creating my unique ‘bag of tricks’ to interrupt pain, depression and other unpleasant signals.”

Dr. Norman Doidge and Professor Lorimer Moseley say: “MOVEMENT is critical in retraining the nervous system. Even imagining movement will retrain the system!”

https://www.normandoidge.com/

https://www.neura.edu.au/staff/prof-lorimer-moseley/

How do I create Pleasure for my Brain? How do I communicate with / give feedback to my Brain?

My evolving “Bag of Tricks” (with the 7 modalities) to give my Beautiful Brain pleasure:

“Imagining” any of these modalities when I can’t access the physical form (especially during COVID-19 Stay At Home order) serves me well.

THOUGHTS -

When pain or depression signals (including unpleasant thoughts) pop up, I have to interrupt them with pleasurable thoughts.

Pleasurable Thoughts this month include:  candied wintermelon pastry (thanks to MT’s selecting); sweet persimmons (thanks to EO); Nan’s signature pesto; Linda’s signature pear Clafoutis; Sasa’s signature salads; Pad Thai with fresh ingredients.

IMAGES -

Because our brains store all experiences (including what we see in movies. read about, and hear about…), I have to stay away from all unpleasant images (even some of my favorite movies, details of sensational news) while I am retraining Beautiful Brain

Pleasurable images include looking at – my photos taken in Paris; postcards of paintings by  Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Marc Chagall; photos from MT of her hikes; photos from Marie-Christine (she’s in France);  photos of nature and kids (2-legged and 4-legged ones) from all my friends; art by Chandra Garsson, Cynthia Tom, Cris Matos, Sharon Leong;  photos of Happy Dog (my sister Maria Kawah Leung’s hero in her book Little Heroes Of Bay Street);  seeing Linda’s little Gracie; the montage (of me and “Brain-no-pain”) at the end of this blog post.

SENSATIONS -

Some sensations I liked (before persistent pain began) aren’t pleasurable right now – drinking hot tea fuels pain right now.

While I am happy for neighbors who are modifying their house for “Aging In Place”, the construction noise (hammering, drilling) also fuels pain and depression right now.

Pleasurable sensations include -  cool and cold water on skin; seeing green plants, blue sky, squirrels and hummingbirds in our patio and neighbor’s; laughing at GOMER PYLE USMC episodes (especially Season 3, Episode 6); smiling for myself; listening to “Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy; tasting sweet fruit on tongue; smelling roses; firm and soothing touch to the body part that is feeling pain.

MEMORIES -

Because our brains store all memories … when unpleasant memories pop up, I have to interrupt them with pleasant ones.

Pleasurable memories:

- Being with people I care about.

- Eating breads and quiches, buying postcards, and walking and gawking at buildings in Paris

- Living sans clutter

SOOTHING EMOTIONS – this is most difficult for me

When my reaction to someone’s behavior brings on pain and other unpleasant signals, I send my thoughts to what the person means to me.

Remember what the good doctors said about “the relationship between pain (or discomfort) and mood (includes anxiety and depression)?

Please see Dr. Moskowitz’s and Dr. Golden’s workbook TRANSFORMING THE BRAIN IN PAIN: NEUROPLASTIC TRANSFORMATION page 35 through page 75.  And, I hope you’ll find someone like Dr. Danielle Rosenman to coach you.

MOVEMENT -

Walking in the neighborhood (when my Brain is occupied with looking, listening, smelling… I feel no pain); dancing with Ms. Sophia Loren, Ms. Rita Hayworth, and Ms. Cyd Charisse (thanks to Youtube clips) ; imagining flying (ballet) over Paris; and running on dirt tracks and fields of wildflowers!

BELIEFS -

That I hold the power to be pain-free and depression-free; that every task can be accomplished with ease; that wellness is reality

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung at Place des Vosges, Paris.(photo by Margie Yee Webb et Sasa Southard 2016)

**

Thank you, Dr. Norman Doidge, Dr. Michael Moskowitz, Dr. Marla Golden, and Professor Lorimer Moseley!

Thank you, Naomi Schaeffer Draper, M.S. Physical Therapist, for teaching me Feldenkrais techniques! Thank you, mentor Lynn Scott, for the referral!

Thank you, Dr. Danielle Rosenman!

https://www.medicalcounseling.net/   Danielle Rosenman, M.D. uses neuroplasticity, imagery, meditation, psychotherapy, and other techniques in her Medical Counseling practice and in her innovative “Tools for Healing” groups.

Thank you, Dr. Amy Grace Lam !  vibrational energy healer

http://amygracelam.com/

Thank you, all dear hearts who care about me and have helped/are helping me on this journey !!!!!

My next blog post will be about what I continue to learn from: “Getting a grip on pain and the brain – Professor Lorimer Moseley – Successful Ageing Seminar 2013″  https://youtu.be/5p6sbi_0lLc  41 minutes

For other posts in my blog, please go to: https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog   If you look at right side of screen, you’ll see the category “Beautiful Brains Neuroplasticity”. Please click on that category to get all my blog posts pertaining to our our Beautiful Brains and Neuroplasticity.

I wish you, dear Reader and your Beautiful Brain, wellness!

Sincerely,

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung, photo by Emily O. on Nov 8, 2020

Love Made Of Heart ®

To read Part 1 of my trilogy on our Beautiful Brains:

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung says: “Scarecrow in THE WIZARD OF OZ would feel NO pain” http://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/story-theme-consultant-teresa-jade-leyung-says-scarecrow-in-the-wizard-of-oz-would-feel-no-pain/

To read Part 2 of my trilogy on our Beautiful Brains:

Story Continuity/Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung says: “Adaptable Brain, Let Quiet Enter.” http://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/storytheme-consultant-teresa-jade-leyung-says-adaptable-brain-let-quiet-enter/

Teresa Jade LeYung, an American naturalized citizen of Chinese ancestry, is a story continuity/theme consultant, author of LOVE MADE OF HEART (daughter-mother novel archived at the San Francisco History Center and used by college professors), BUILD YOUR WRITER’S PLATFORM & FANBASE IN 22 DAYS (a workbook), and TALKING TO MY DEAD MOM Monologues (the first monologue received an award from Redwood Writers Ten-Minute Play Festival), an advocate for public libraries and public schools, creator of http://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/ , and, admirer of City of Light. Composing Haiku poems is a new love for LeYung.

2020 October 29 California USA

2020 November 4,5,6

In American author L. Frank Baum’s children’s book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,  Dorothy and her dog Toto meet the Scarecrow who wants a brain, the Tin Woodman who wants a heart, and the Lion who wants courage.

I shall focus on what the Scarecrow doesn’t have and wants.

The Scarecrow who doesn’t have a brain would feel no pain.  He can’t.

He might sustain injuries and illnesses, but, until he gets a full brain (the thinking conscious brain in addition to the automatic survival brain), he would not feel any pain. Without the thinking conscious brain, he wouldn’t feel any sensation – pleasant ones or unpleasant ones.

Unpleasant sensations?   Pain.  Depression. Anxiety.

If I were the Wizard, before granting Mr. Scarecrow what he wants, I would tell him this:

Dear Mr. Scarecrow,

When you get what you want – a beautiful brain – you will be getting an adaptable nervous system – adaptability which scientists call neuroplasticity.  The brain changes whenever we learn to do something new or when we stop doing something. The brain produces sensations, including pain.  According to Dr. Norman Doidge,  Dr. Michael Moskowitz, Dr. Marla Golden, Dr. Danielle Rosenman, Professor Lorimer Moseley and other neuroscientists and physicians … pain is our most sophisticated protective device.

In Dr. Moskowitz’s and Dr. Golden’s most engaging workbook TRANSFORMING THE BRAIN IN PAIN: NEUROPLASTIC TRANSFORMATION, they inform: “Acute pain is an alarm going off in the brain that signifies danger and/or damage to the body….  The experience of pain may be the single most important perception we have to help us survive…. This is quite different than persistent pain experience, in which the signal sets up an endless loop between body and brain, inflammatory processes become chronic, anti-inflammatory processes are overwhelmed, and the nerve cells dedicated to pain increase up to five-fold.  Acute pain helps with survival while persistent pain transforms danger into misery.”

In his presentations, Professor Lorimer Moseley says: “We feel pain in our body, in a particular location, but, it is impossible to feel pain without the brain, and, it is definitely possible to feel pain without the body part.”

Dr. Moskowitz and Dr. Golden also say: “This is why general anesthetics work – by separating the thinking conscious brain from the automatic survival brain. During anesthesia, the survival part of the brain stays active, but, the perceptive part of the brain is turned off.”

By the way, Dr. Moskowitz is Chapter 1 in Dr. Norman Doidge’s second book The Brain’s Way of Healing: Remarkable Discoveries and Recoveries from the Frontiers of Neuroplasticity

Chapter 1 Physician Hurt, Then Heal Thyself -  Michael Moskowitz Discovers That Chronic Pain Can Be Unlearned

I am giving you this information because you say you want a brain.  Understanding how your brain and pain pathways work can help dissipate fear.  Your loyal friends will stick by you, as mine have (I am forever grateful to them), but, you will be the one experiencing the sensations. Even the most courageous heroes can feel defeated when persistent pain takes over their lives.

“What is the antidote for pain, depression, anxiety, and other unpleasant symptoms?  PLEASURE.

“How to accomplish this?

“By studying the brain and practicing … by using thoughts, images, sensations, soothing memories, soothing emotions, movement, and beliefs … to harness the power of our brains,” Dr. Moskowitz and Dr. Golden instruct.  On the last page of their workbook, they leave us with plenty of hope: “Neuroplastic Transformation opens a new approach to treating people living with persistent pain ….   The overarching message is that persistent pain can be challenged and defeated  by using the same principles that have created it.”

The simple act of smiling for yourself will help your beautiful brain’s natural production of chemicals that include GABA, Anandamide, Endorphins, Oxytocin.

Dr. Danielle Rosenman reminded me:  “When you learn to talk to your brain, you are opening up a new life.” Thank you, Dr. Rosenman

Mr. Scarecrow, I wish you a new beautiful life. Also, I wish you, and Dorothy, Toto, Mr. Tin Woodman, Mr. Lion, and everyone you folks care about — safety, excellent health, and plenty of pleasure for all your beautiful brains.

Here are the names of a few “Wonderful Wizards” who have enriched my life through their books about our brains and wellness, their talks, or their treatments

https://youtu.be/5p6sbi_0lLc  to see the 41 minute talk  “Getting a grip on pain and the brain – Professor Lorimer Moseley – Successful Ageing Seminar 2013″ on Youtube

http://www.neuroplastix.com/  for Dr. Michael Moskowitz and Dr. Marla Golden - TRANSFORMING THE BRAIN IN PAIN: NEUROPLASTIC TRANSFORMATION workbook and webinars and brain graphics

http://www.normandoidge.com/ for Dr. Norman Doidge (look for his talks posted on Youtube)

Dr. Doidge’s first book – The Brain That Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science (translated into 26 languages)

Dr. Doidge’s second book – The Brain’s Way of Healing: Remarkable Discoveries and Recoveries from the Frontiers of Neuroplasticity (translated into 19 languages so far)

To my compassionate primary care physician (present and past) and the entire team at SEBMF, I thank you!

https://www.medicalcounseling.net/   Danielle Rosenman, M.D. uses neuroplasticity, imagery, meditation, psychotherapy, and other techniques in her Medical Counseling practice and in her innovative “Tools for Healing” groups.

http://amygracelam.com/ Dr. Amy Grace Lam, vibrational energy healer,  says: “I do this work by connecting with your body’s vibrational energy field to learn what unconscious beliefs and emotions are hindering you the most and supporting you in accessing your body’s wisdom for transformation.”

http://www.duskyswondersite.com/ Loduskia “Dusky” Pierce, MFT says: “Mind/body approaches such as EMDR and Emotional Freedom Technique are scientifically proven methods that we might use to address trauma or deep emotional wounds.”

http://www.mariechristinecornet.com/ Marie-Christine Cornet (now in France), Chi Nei Tsang and Somatic Experience practitioner, says: “Connecting to your body and its wealth of intelligence and wisdom is the portal to living Life deeply and authentically.”

http://stephaniedoucette.com/  Stephanie Doucette, M.S., L.Ac., Dipl. OM, is a California Licensed Acupuncturist and Clinical Herbalist. She is nationally certified as a Diplomate in Oriental Medicine and practices integrative orthopedic therapy, bringing together acupuncture, deep tissue massage and manual orthopedic techniques to treat neuromuscular injury and chronic pain.

https://www.victoriasweet.com/ for Dr. Victoria Sweet

Dr. Sweet’s first book – God’s Hotel: A Doctor, a Hospital, and a Pilgrimage to the Heart of Medicine

Dr. Sweet’s second book - Slow Medicine: The Way to Healing

Remember to smile for your beautiful brain, not just on the Yellow Brick Road but wherever you are.  During the pandemic when we’re all wearing masks to protect others and ourselves… all the more reason to smile for your brain’s pleasure pathways.

Sincerely,

Teresa Jade LeYung

Love Made Of Heart ®

Story Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung says: “Scarecrow in THE WIZARD OF OZ would feel NO pain”

I recommend this spellbinding workbook -

Transforming the Brain In Pain

Neuroplastic Transformation

by Michael H. Moskowitz, MD and Marla D. Golden, DO

Why doesn’t the pain stop?

Listen to your body talk

Use your brain to stop your pain

https://shop.neuroplastix.com/Neuroplastic-Transformation-Workbook-92-W8PZ-LIIY.htm

http://www.neuroplastix.com/ for Dr. Moskowitz’s and Dr. Golden’s webinars

For other posts in my blog, please go to: https://lovemadeofheart.com/blog   If you look at right side of screen, you’ll see the category “Beautiful Brains Neuroplasticity”. Please click on that category to get all my blog posts pertaining to our our Beautiful Brains and Neuroplasticity.

author Teresa Jade LeYung, mask by Emily O, July 2020 COVID-19 pandemic

To help prevent spread of COVID-19 virus, I wear face-covering AND keep at least 6-foot-distance with people who don’t live with me. No blaming No shaming; I protect myself and everyone else.

Teresa Jade LeYung speaks out and offers resources through her Blog: http://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/

Teresa talks about her work of art entitled ”Four Desks for the Four Femmes In Me” at A PLACE OF HER OWN (Founder/Director/Curator: Cynthia Tom) 2018 Exhibition https://youtu.be/JtvIsTjcbOk  2 minutes, 44 seconds

Teresa Jade LeYung, September 2019 photo by Mary E. Knippel

Teresa Jade LeYung, an American naturalized citizen of Chinese ancestry, is a manuscript-theme consultant, author of Love Made Of Heart (daughter-mother novel archived at the San Francisco History Center), Build Your Writer’s Platform & Fanbase In 22 Days (a workbook), and Talking To My Dead Mom (monologues), advocate for public libraries and public schools, and, admirer of City of Light.

Wake-Up America!  Part II

Healing Racism

by Dr. Kim McMillon, Professor & Author

https://www.narrativepathsjournal.com/guest-column-wake-up-america-part-ii-healing-racism-by-dr-kim-mcmillon-professor-author/

Dr. Kim McMillon, author, historian, activist, over twenty years of experience producing theatre

The Conversation 

1. How do you become an ally to those experiencing racial oppression?
2.  The public has not protested the atrocities that have been taking place in our country, but yet during a pandemic, people are taking to the streets to protest the death of George Floyd, why?
3.   How do you believe we can change the world for the better?
4.   As a poet, how would you like to be remembered?
5.   What line or stanza of poetry best describes you?

***

Author Teresa Jade LeYung says:  The tagline in Dr. Kim McMillon’s poetathon is: “If not NOW, WHEN?” I believe that that mantra plus the ability to document incidents with our personal electronic devices (especially cellphones) plus the speed in which to broadcast content through social media add up to a World Town Crier galvanizing people to protest the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and other victims. Here we are, fighting a global enemy named Coronavirus – people old and young risking their lives to save lives – folks making sacrifices by staying home to reduce the spread of infection – friends and neighbors sharing resources . . . yet, all the while, the hideous monster named racial injustice looms across our past and present. What can I do after protesters have gone home? How do I confront apathy and denial? I pledge to get more training from www.ihollaback.org: “We’re on a mission to end harassment—in all its forms.”  The folks at Hollaback! (in 16 countries) have developed new programs, including “Bystander Intervention to Stop Police-Sponsored Violence and Anti-Black Racist Harassment” and “Stand Up Against Street Harassment.” I pledge to not wait to read voting material right before elections but to routinely visit websites of my legislators to communicate to them what laws I want changed, so that I stand with fellow Americans to fully exercise our rights to “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” http://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration

***

Author Teresa Jade LeYung says:  How can we change the world for the better?  While I have no answers, questions weigh on me as a U.S. citizen.

• Education – “Why do zip codes influence how much money a child receives in public schools?  Do ballot measures show this inequality?” https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/tale-two-zip-codes-covid-19-exposes-deep-disparities-u-n1227646
  
• ***
• When the media brag about lowest unemployment rate, I want to know: “How many of these jobs actually pay a living wage?” “Who are selling and buying ‘cheap labor’ and where are the human beings toiling?”https://livingwage.mit.edu/articles  and https://livingwage.mit.edu/articles/61-new-living-wage-data-for-now-available-on-the-tool and https://www.worldhunger.org/  and  https://www.worldhunger.org/hunger-news/united-states/
• ***
• When groups blame immigrants and migrant workers (all tax payers by the way) for “taking away” jobs, I ask  “Why are we denying the fact that U.S. companies send millions of jobs overseas?”  and “What happened to the companies who had urged us to be patriotic by buying products made in the U.S.A.?”  https://www.thebalance.com/how-outsourcing-jobs-affects-the-u-s-economy-3306279
• ***
• Why are we afraid to look at “ugly”?
• Abject Poverty https://www.un.org/en/sections/issues-depth/poverty/
• ***
• Hate and Bigotry https://www.splcenter.org/what-we-do
• ***
• Modern day Slavery also known as Human Trafficking https://www.acf.hhs.gov/otip/partnerships/look-beneath-the-surface
• ***

Do we have a chance of becoming our better selves? Yes! We can wake up! Perhaps if we continue asking lawmakers these and other questions, our united voices shall change the world for the better.

https://www.ihollaback.org  Hollaback!  in 20 cities globally!

***

https://www.standup-international.com/fr/fr  Agissons ensemble contre le harcèlement de rue.

***

 https://www.standagainsthatred.org/   Stand Against Hate

***

https://www.asianpacificpolicyandplanningcouncil.org/stop-aapi-hate/  Stop AAPI Hate

I wish you and everyone around you safety, kindness, excellent health, clear water, blue sky, delicious foods, and sweet laughter!

Bonne journée!

Sincerely,

author Teresa Jade LeYung, mask by Emily O, July 2020 COVID-19 pandemic

Author and Theme Consultant Teresa Jade LeYung

“To help prevent spread of COVID-19, I wear face-covering AND keep at least 6-foot distance with people who don’t live with me.  No blaming No shaming; I protect myself and everyone else.”

Teresa Jade LeYung, American naturalized citizen of Chinese ancestry, is a manuscript-theme consultant, author of Love Made Of Heart (archived at the San Francisco History Center), Build Your Writer’s Platform & Fanbase In 22 Days, and Talking To My Dead Mom monologues, and, advocate for public libraries and public schools. Teresa speaks out and offers resources through her Blog: http://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/

with Black Arts Movement Historian / Poet Kim McMillon & Guest Poets

2:00-4:30pm PST; 5:00-7:30pm EST

Dr. Kim McMillon - photo by Marlena McMillon

“Let Freedom Ring” banner created by Dr. Kim McMillon’s intern Elly.

Dear Dr. McMillon, all poets and guests,

See you on July 12th!

I wish you and everyone around you safety, kindness, excellent health,  and sweet laughter!

Sincerely,

Your fan,

author Teresa Jade LeYung, mask by Emily O, July 2020 COVID-19 pandemic

Teresa Jade LeYung

Love Made Of Heart ®

Teresa Jade LeYung, American naturalized citizen of Chinese ancestry, is a manuscript-theme consultant, author of Love Made Of Heart (archived at the San Francisco History Center), Build Your Writer’s Platform & Fanbase In 22 Days, and Talking To My Dead Mom monologues, and, advocate for public libraries and public schools. Teresa speaks out and offers resources through her Blog: http://lovemadeofheart.com/blog/

* * *

Teresa also  encourages everyone to watch the recording of:

• James Baldwin’s arguments in the debate with William F. Buckley  at Cambridge University (1965) “Has the American Dream Been Achieved at the Expense of the American Negro?” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFeoS41xe7w
• * * *
• Jeffery Robinson’s lecture on August 24, 2017 “WHEN HERITAGE = HATE: The Truth About the Confederacy in the United States” (full version) – What was the American civil war really fought about? Men. Women. Children. Chattel. Slaves. White Supremacy was the reality/truth. Who have been and are writing history books? What we can do to learn from our past and combat systemic racism. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QOPGpE-sXh0