It has been several years since I joined the chorus of those encouraging Dr. Michelle Robin to write a book capturing the wisdom and practical magic she has acquired during her passionate pursuit of health and well-being. Like Dr. Abraham Maslow, who revolutionized our understanding of mental health by his radical choice to focus his study on exceptionally well people instead of only the ill, Dr. Robin has spent her two-decade medical practice focusing on how to support optimal well-being. And she has succeeded! Her study and support of what truly maximizes healthy living have led her to develop one of the leading wellness centers in the United States. She has been vigilant in her own healing, and kind and generous in providing her patients and friends (often one and the same) with an integrated approach to improving and maintaining good health.

Dr. Robin understands that we are spiritual beings having a human experience. On this journey to radiant health and freedom, we must transform our thinking, feelings, body temple, relationships and environment to establish harmony in our lives.

… It may seem incredible that 100 years ago, the mind-body-spirit connection was a radical and mostly unknown concept. Shortly after Unity's co-founder Myrtle Fillmore was given a terminal diagnosis and told she had only a few months to live, she heard a simple truth that would change her life and influence millions as her understanding of Truth expanded. “You are a child of God and do not inherit sickness” was a seed idea that took root in her soul and inspired Fillmore to embark on a quest to understand the principles embodied in Jesus' healings.

Her total and complete healing was realized, not by a theoretical understanding but through precious hours sitting in the silence and listening to Spirit and by a daily and consistent application of the truths she discovered. As Fillmore received more guidance, she put her new insights into practice and became willing to share what she had learned with others who sought her help.

Dr. Robin understands at a soul level the universal principles that Fillmore's dramatic healing revealed. Her own transformation has involved different aspects of her being but has been the result of a similar commitment and willingness to make the changes necessary for well-being that Fillmore's life revealed. Like Fillmore, her desire to be of service has blessed many who have come to her for help.

The ideas offered in [Wellness on a Shoestring] have improved my life. They offer you an invitation as well as an affirmation that you deserve to be radiantly healthy and filled with joy. It contains what the Buddhists call skillful means: seven areas to focus on that naturally lead to your increased well-being.

And the best news is that they are available to everyone. But only you can take the steps and make the changes that become a way of life. I encourage you to begin. … Be sure to take time to acknowledge all the aspects of your life that are working. What's right about you is more than enough to transform and heal the rest, and it is a simple but important truth that what you appreciate appreciates.

Remember this! The full realization of Fillmore's health took a couple of years of daily practice, but out of her efforts grew the worldwide movement called Unity. Dr. Robin's wisdom has been two decades in the making but has led to the creation of a wellness center that serves thousands of patients every year. Life has no less wonder in store for you.

Truly you are a child of God, worthy of great well-being and designed for magnificence. Dare to begin the journey. What lies before you will delight and amaze you, and might even change your world for good.

 

Read another excerpt from Wellness on a Shoestring entitled “Breathe Deeply.”