Matt McAvoy Book Review

For a book clearly rushed out extraordinary quickly, the author has actually done a tremendous job.  Sure, it needs tidying up for layout and Arnett has missed more than a handful of errors in his haste, but a sincere hats off to him for the remarkable achievement of this inspirational and comprehensive (surprisingly the latter, given the low word count) advice guide.

Arnett is the kind of person you want with you in a nuclear bunker; he has a positive spin and well-being solution for every aspect of this horrific situation we suddenly find ourselves in.  His general message is that the various tools he goes on to enable us to use, to mentally overcome this pandemic and its emotional devastation, will ultimately make us stronger.  In fact, his book actually focuses on benefits of stressful events on our mind, body and character – and he should know.  Whilst his message may seem twee, or common empty lip service, he presents evidence, scenarios and his own experience as an EMT and firefighter to support his motivational message.  His tools are not necessarily virus-specific, but can otherwise (and probably would otherwise) be universally applied at any time in our lives.  From spiritual and physical exercise, to body-mind techniques, mindfulness, tai chi, breathing, overall attitude, diet and faith, Arnett presents a truly completely holistic approach to cognitive conditioning ourselves.  I suspect much of what Arnett has learnt was put into common practice by his emergency services in the traumatic aftermath of 9/11 – and I certainly won’t argue with what these guys have learnt from life.

True, I acknowledge the possibility that this book could well have already been in the making before the pandemic hit, and Arnett may have adapted it accordingly (though I by no means suggest it) – and, so what?  He has written a wonderful, inspiring and truly welcome tonic to the misery, so good for him.  Thankfully, too, this seems a genuine work of philanthropy, apparently priced on Amazon to cover costs, which is a huge relief, massively enhancing its worth.  We all hope we can do our bit in times like these, and this is Arnett’s – and, no small token is it, either.  Whichever way you view it, Resilience During the Pandemic is a triumphant and timely piece of work by a good quality, well-qualified author, which will remain current and relevant long after all of the horror has passed.

BUY NOW FROM AMAZON