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The Centered Heart: Evidence-Based, Mind-Body Practices to Stress Less and Improve Cardiac Health
This book fills a critical niche that has long been overlooked. It specifically focuses on somatic practices to decrease stress and improve heart health. It will combine science, time-tested somatic mindfulness techniques, and patient stories to provide hope and help.
256 pages, Hardcover
Published May 7, 2024
14 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Susi Amendola
2 books2 followersSusi Amendola, author of “The Centered Heart: Evidence-Based Mind Body Practices to Stress Less and Improve Cardiac Health" is an Internationally Certified Yoga Therapist who brings over 40 years of experience utilizing Yoga and lifestyle practices to help others heal.
In 1983 she founded Yoga Now in Omaha, Nebraska where she currently teaches classes and directs the annual 200-Hour Yoga Certification program. Susi has developed yoga-based stress management programs for schools, businesses, and hospitals throughout the country.
Presently, Susi is a National Senior Trainer of Stress Management for the prestigious Ornish Lifestyle Medicine program for reversing heart disease. The program includes Yoga as part of a multi-dimensional approach to healing, and is covered by Medicare under the guidelines of Intensive Cardiac Rehab. Susi has contributed over 150 articles to Ornish Living Magazine , an online publication to support those who are making lifestyle changes to improve their health and well-being, with an audience of over a million subscribers.
She is an esteemed guest speaker and presenter at yoga conferences, and many symposiums on health and wellness. Her teaching style is nurturing, practical, and empowering.
In 1983 she founded Yoga Now in Omaha, Nebraska where she currently teaches classes and directs the annual 200-Hour Yoga Certification program. Susi has developed yoga-based stress management programs for schools, businesses, and hospitals throughout the country.
Presently, Susi is a National Senior Trainer of Stress Management for the prestigious Ornish Lifestyle Medicine program for reversing heart disease. The program includes Yoga as part of a multi-dimensional approach to healing, and is covered by Medicare under the guidelines of Intensive Cardiac Rehab. Susi has contributed over 150 articles to Ornish Living Magazine , an online publication to support those who are making lifestyle changes to improve their health and well-being, with an audience of over a million subscribers.
She is an esteemed guest speaker and presenter at yoga conferences, and many symposiums on health and wellness. Her teaching style is nurturing, practical, and empowering.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
March 2, 2025
I think this book is a good combination of books on other topics but having read as many books on the covered topics this doesn't really add much new
April 8, 2024
"The Centered Heart" by Susi Amendola is a beacon of hope and healing for anyone seeking to cultivate a deeper connection between mind, body, and heart. She encourages readers to shift from thinking and doing to feeling and being.
Susi Amendola's expertise shines through every page as she delicately weaves together evidence-based practices with heartfelt wisdom. Each chapter is a treasure trove of stress management techniques including gentle movements, relaxation, breathing, meditation, imagery, compassion, and connection to nature.
As a former cardiac nurse, I strongly advocate for the integration of stress management techniques into our healthcare systems. Incorporating these techniques into cardiac care empowers patients to take an active role in their health journey. By teaching patients practical tools for stress management, we not only enhance their quality of life but also foster resilience in the face of cardiac challenges.
While "The Centered Heart" by Susi Amendola offers evidence-based mind-body practices specifically tailored to improve cardiac health, its benefits extend far beyond individuals dealing solely with cardiac issues. The techniques outlined in this book provide valuable tools for anyone seeking to enhance their overall well-being and manage stress effectively.
May this book illuminate a pathway to peace for you, just as it has for me.
Susi Amendola's expertise shines through every page as she delicately weaves together evidence-based practices with heartfelt wisdom. Each chapter is a treasure trove of stress management techniques including gentle movements, relaxation, breathing, meditation, imagery, compassion, and connection to nature.
As a former cardiac nurse, I strongly advocate for the integration of stress management techniques into our healthcare systems. Incorporating these techniques into cardiac care empowers patients to take an active role in their health journey. By teaching patients practical tools for stress management, we not only enhance their quality of life but also foster resilience in the face of cardiac challenges.
While "The Centered Heart" by Susi Amendola offers evidence-based mind-body practices specifically tailored to improve cardiac health, its benefits extend far beyond individuals dealing solely with cardiac issues. The techniques outlined in this book provide valuable tools for anyone seeking to enhance their overall well-being and manage stress effectively.
May this book illuminate a pathway to peace for you, just as it has for me.
June 9, 2024
Thank u NetGalley for the advanced Arc of this self-help book
I got this book because I suffer from asthma and I wanted to see if over time following the practices could help with that more, I read this book slowly and took time with each exercise before moving on to the next because it takes a few weeks + for a new routine or habit to stick and if these worked I wanted them to stick.
Though reading this book I also kept notes, this book was very good and I have now got some new daily habits that help me... I found the information interesting and made me reflect on some things & I do like books that make u think 🤔 because you feel more of a connection to what's said.
I am going to buy this book because I got a lot out of it .
I got this book because I suffer from asthma and I wanted to see if over time following the practices could help with that more, I read this book slowly and took time with each exercise before moving on to the next because it takes a few weeks + for a new routine or habit to stick and if these worked I wanted them to stick.
Though reading this book I also kept notes, this book was very good and I have now got some new daily habits that help me... I found the information interesting and made me reflect on some things & I do like books that make u think 🤔 because you feel more of a connection to what's said.
I am going to buy this book because I got a lot out of it .
January 31, 2024
Excellent book! It's easy to read and the "exercises" are actionable and easy to follow. I appreciated the free online resources as well that are available with the book. The practice of yoga and other meditation exercises can at first feel intimidating, especially if you aren't "the type" and don't fit in with the model thin legging type. I appreciated how this book normalized the practice of yoga and meditation/stress relief exercises for all people.
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June 15, 2024Who knew I needed this book so much!!! Susi Amendola speaks with heart & compassion to help me put myself back together again as I - Humpty-Dumpty-like- repeatedly fall from the walls of my expectations for myself. Her kindness and gentle humor make The Centered Heart a delightful read and one that I will go back to again & again. It is an ideal "portable practice" -a must-read!!
June 14, 2024
This is a wonderful book. Susi Amedola wrote from her heart to ours filled with helpful information back by years and years of experience. A must read for anyone dealing with issues of the heart. I am reading it aloud to my spouse.
March 9, 2024
One of the best books I've read about yoga. Amendola presents a convincing case for centering life around self-care.
March 10, 2025
Not what I thought.
November 4, 2025
This is one of the best books I’ve read on the topic of mind-body practices. Easy to follow, with excellent explanations.
December 23, 2024
Sometimes it seems like you read a book at the right, exact time that you need it. This is the case with “The Centered Heart” by Susi Amendola. The introduction of the book entails a story of her teenage years and experiences with anxiety and how this lead to her heartfelt connection with yoga.
Susi offers thoughtful, personal stories and relatable techniques that will optimize meditation practices and stress management routines. The case illustrations and offerings of real life practices are a gift - which go well beyond any cardiac case scenarios. Her compelling data examples coupled with her authentic, hopeful purpose are delight to take in.
Susi Amendola
The Centered Heart: Evidence-Based, Mind-Body Practices to Stress Less and Improve Cardiac Health
Susi offers thoughtful, personal stories and relatable techniques that will optimize meditation practices and stress management routines. The case illustrations and offerings of real life practices are a gift - which go well beyond any cardiac case scenarios. Her compelling data examples coupled with her authentic, hopeful purpose are delight to take in.
Susi Amendola
The Centered Heart: Evidence-Based, Mind-Body Practices to Stress Less and Improve Cardiac Health
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews