“To be who you are and become what you are capable of is the only goal worth living.”
Alvin Ailey

“Nothing can dim the light which shines from within.”
Maya Angelou

“The best way to predict your future is to create it.”
Stephen R. Covey

One of the most powerful journeys a book can take us on is a journey of rediscovery: one in which old wisdom is reinterpreted and made fresh and new again. That’s why I was excited when Leta Herman, a gifted healer and friend, talked with me some time ago about a book she wanted to write that would share new insights about the Five Elements – Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water – an ancient Chinese approach to harnessing individual energy and maximizing personal potential.

All of which made me doubly excited and astonished when Leta and her talented co-author, Jaye McElroy found the time – and energy! – in the midst of their demanding healing and coaching practices to write not one, but two, wonderful newly published how-to guides: Connecting Your Circle and The Energy of Love. Both these fun, insightful, and witty books have the same mission: to demystify the Five Elements energetic system and show todays readers how to apply its principles to improve their lives, tap their full potential, and enhance their relationships. What I love about Leta and Jaye’s approach is its focus on self-acceptance and cultivating joyful, nourishing energy.

Mobilizing and managing energy is a critical key to success in any endeavor, which is why I was eager to begin applying the Five Elements approach to my writing. After reading both of these wise and entertaining guides and attending a recent workshop, I realized that my core energy element is Water, which means, in part, that my energy expresses itself by alternating between stillness and onrushing motion. This totally explains my work-play mode of writing: intense bouts of concentration and productivity followed by a period of relaxation and decompression. What a relief it is to know that this way of working actually reflects my core energetic nature!

Wood, Fire, Metal, Earth, Water – each core element has it own unique energetic profile and each type of energy influences our work lives and relationships. Identifying your energy dynamic – and those of the people you work and live with — can be extremely valuable in shaping a more satisfying work style and personal connections. So if nourishing your energy is a major priority for you, be sure to check out Connecting Your Circle and The Energy of Love. You can find both books on Amazon and visit the website: http://www.theenergyoflovebook.com. Let’s get energized and write on!