It doesn’t seem quite possible that the holidays are upon us once again, but indeed it is time for turkeys and trees and families and food. We love that now is the time when reflecting on your blessings and all that you are grateful for is encouraged. We try to be grateful all year, but it is nice to have the songs and the touching holiday movies and the extra reason to gather around your favorite people just to revel in being together.

It goes without saying that we are so tremendously grateful for the generosity of our contributing authors and members this year. Your commitment to sharing your wisdom is invaluable not simply to RecoveryView.com, but to the thousands and thousands of people for whom it reaches and makes some impact in their lives.

Beginning this issue is Dr. Tian Dayton and a more in-depth article on her Relationship Trauma Repair technique for working with clients who have experienced significant trauma. Her gentle approach provides an extremely useful tool for therapists in all settings working with trauma.

Andrew Kessler informs us about the latest fad drug, Bath Salts, that has recently been banned by the DEA. From what it is – most definitely not a trip to the day spa – to its effects and prevalence in the U.S., this is cutting-edge information for every clinician…and parent, for that matter.

The Craft of Compassion is both a book and an approach to healing from addictions – and all life challenges – that encourages, of course, compassion, but also acceptance and empathy in the path to emotional freedom. Author Michael Ortiz Hill shares his insight into how The Craft of Compassion has helped so many reach a more loving view of themselves and others.

Prosperity and abundance are two things nearly everyone would like but do not have. Larry Smith believes that this is not necessarily true breaks down the journey he went on in search for these seemingly illusive qualities.

Robert Collie brings his unique perspective of recovery from PTSD, in which he found links from the modern-day embodiment of the disorder to biblical times and characters. The revelations from this connection, Collie believes, can point us to a better understanding of ourselves today, and the different forms healing can take.

Mark Dorian Webber believes that the natural high elite athletes or artists describe as “The Zone” just might be tapping into something he calls Quantum Love, wherein it “calms our nerves, thereby energizing the body and brain as a result of released stress”. He posits that when this ultimate mind-body connection is made, healing of all kinds – physically, mentally and emotionally – can naturally occur. A fascinating read, to be sure.

As the cold winter winds begin to blow, physical sickness becomes more common – colds and flu viruses abound. Sheri Laine lends her holistic approach to bolstering our immunity, as well as treating it naturally, should we fall ill. Recipes included!

Angels are a common sight this time of year, typically gracing the tops of trees or adorning decorations of all kinds. Connie Miller also believes they are living and breathing creatures we interact with every day, often unaware of their presence. Be it the your best friend, your child or a kind stranger, opening your eyes to the presence of love and grace all around you may just shift your whole perspective on life.

Our featured member, David Likens, CEO of ABC Recovery Centers, has had a busy four years. Under his leadership, ABC has seen phenomenal growth and the addition of invaluable community resources. His story is inspirational to us all.

Our featured Book Club titles both center around the theme of spirituality in all its many forms. In Soul Silence: A Unique Approach to Mastering the 11th Step, Peter Amato describes how prayer and meditation were his salvation from addiction and filled him with the gifts of “peace, passion and purpose”. Our Q&A with him sheds more light onto his personal journey writing the book and what he hopes you will take away from it.

Sheri Laine’s book, The EnerQi Connection: Demystifying Acupuncture, is an easy-to-understand guide to acupuncture and Chinese medicine, as well as harnessing the power we all have within us to heal and live more fully and vibrantly.

We hope you will be inspired and encouraged by our holiday issue and wish everyone the most peaceful, joyous and blessed of holiday seasons. See you in 2012!