Category: Blog-Creativity

Posted on by

Celebrating Service & Dreams Come True

In the United States, we celebrate Memorial Day this weekend. 

Many view Memorial Day only as a long weekend to jump start the summer and enjoy the beach. It definitely carries a vibe of freedom and relief that summer is here. I think that feeling of freedom and relief was seeded when Memorial Day was first established as a day to celebrate all those who served in armed forces. To honor their bravery, commitment, and sacrifice. 

On Memorial Day, we honor those who have served and all that was lost.

Regardless of whether these men or women ever saw battle, all lost something. The very nature of living in a world where we must defend to the death our rights, borders, supremacy, and “stuff” leads to the loss of security, innocence, and a soulful path. The loss of life, limbs, time with family and friends, mental and emotional health, and internal peace represent a fraction of what was taken by war.

All so we could feel free enough to grab our picnic and head to the beach. 

It’s bigger and more complicated than that, of course. But for this weekend, it’s a beautiful thing to honor those who stepped in to serve their country. I honor my grandfather Arthur, father in law Lou, cousins Mike, Deanna and Alexis, friends Rodrigo and JT, and my lawn guru John. Recently visiting Pearl Harbor, I recognize the devastation of loss from war.

So, I dream of a future peace where we all enjoy the freedom of a day at the beach together.

So much more to celebrate as dreams come true, bellies are full, and my bee hotel opens for business.

There’s a lot of happy news to report so here are a few tidbits to cheer you up!

Our recent Soul Sanctuary food drive was well received in Burlington City.

The idea of a “quickie” Soul Sanctuary food expanded a bit when I received $1200 as your personal food drive shopper. It took four trips and a bunch of helpers to gather and organize all that food. Plus the bags dropped off at Soul Sanctuary. It took two SUVs to transport all those goodies so that’s reason to celebrate!

As my husband and I pulled up to SisterHood, PhilAbundance arrived to unload two pallets of fresh fruit and veggies.

In less than 30 minutes, the previously empty SisterHood food pantry was stocked. Full bellies are in the future for many grateful families. Here’s just one more thing I learned. When I phoned SisterHood on Monday, I was told the pantry was really low on food. When we arrived 8 days later, the dry and canned food section was empty. Empty. That hit me, so I’ll be more conscious of the need for good food to be sent to my neighbors and get to it. Wherever you live, there are hungry families and food pantries to serve them. 

Love Orphanage is doing the happy dance in Haiti!!

Our beloved Ylionor, the oldest of the 19 Love O kids, has begun his secondary education. Whoo hoo! He is the first to step into the dream of the Be a Difference Maker Program (created by my kid) to graduate high school AND receive secondary training. We celebrated his graduation last June with a coffee house fundraiser to build the vocational school educational fund. 

Ylionor has entered the Wonderful Institute to study information technology. Wonderful indeed.

For all of you “wonderful” people who have supported the Be a Difference Maker program for the Love O kids in Haiti over the past 10 years, THANK YOU! This is the opportunity that your dreaming hearts and generous pockets created. And there are more kids studying to become the future Difference Makers of Haiti. Feel free to learn more or donate directly to the Be a Difference Maker fund on the Love O webpage. [I have no access to information about donations which are handled by the nonprofit We the Village.]

Closer to home, I’ve completed the Pachamama garden at my home. Pollinators welcome!

When I was in Peru, meditating on top of a mountain after our sacred ceremony where I received the Munay Ki Earth Keeper initiation, I received a vision from Pachamama (Mother Earth). I saw my home with its manicured garden overflowing with colorful blossoms. “Create my altar and welcome my children,” whispered Pachamama. 

I don’t garden, hate digging in the dirt, and don’t know much about plants. So, I said “Yes, I will.”

I do know how to get expert advice, shop for flowers, schedule my lawn guru, and create beauty. So, I got busy. I wandered around the nursery until I’d spy something that had me gasp in delight (happened often). I read the tags, envisioned the empty spaces, made 3 trips, and laid everything where it wanted to be planted. My guys did the rest. The gardeners planted and my husband watered. 

Leaving me free to wander, drink in beauty, and invite the pollinators to visit.

The bee hotel is going up in the tree this weekend. A gift from a family friend who made it from wood taken from a massive tree which fell on my childhood home a while back. While the home is no longer ours and the tree long gone, it’s nice to know another community will gather around it. The bees have arrived and I’m waiting for the butterflies and hummingbirds. Oh, and there’s Simon.

I met Simon when he popped out from under my lilies to say hello. I was delighted to discover a lizard living in Pachamama’s garden.

Somehow I knew his name and that he came to greet me. As is my habit with animals, I introduced myself. “Hi, Simon, I’m Kathy Milano. I live here.” And then I paused ’cause that hit me as funny. We humans always think we rule the roost. “I guess you live here, too. Glad to share the space with you.” Simon came out later in the evening to meet my husband. I think he’s steering clear of Milo. 

One sweet, exciting bit of Soul Sanctuary news. I’m offering the Ignite your Light Body Retreat on Saturday, June 24th in Marlton, NJ.

It’s a day filled with energy healing, ceremony, and initiation in the Andean tradition. For anyone interested in accelerating personal healing and boosting your healing service to others (in any capacity). Get lots more details by clicking HERE.

I hope you find your good news and share it with others. Have fun this weekend however you celebrate the freedoms you live.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

4ocean is a conscious company committed to the wellbeing of the planet, marine life and ecosystems, and local communities. They serve 12 locations including Indonesia, Guatemala, Florida (Osbourne Reef), and Hawaii. They’ve recovered 28, 778, 685 pounds of trash so far. The average person uses 9 pounds of single use plastic a month. You can both reduce your plastic usage and pay 4ocean to “pull pounds” or order a 4ocean recycled bracelet to remind you of your commitment. Learn more at 4ocean.com.

Posted on by

The Siren Song. Cleaning the Oceans.

Om Tare Tuttare Ture Mangalam Shri Maha Pani Svaha

This Sanskrit chant to invoke Tara sounds like a mouthful, but it’s well worth exploring and soon becomes second nature to sing.

Tara is the most beloved female deity in Tibetan Buddhism. She may be described simply as an accessible mother. A feminine Buddha who personifies compassion and wisdom, freely offering Her embrace and these qualities to all who seek Her.

An unconditionally loving Mother deity, Tara has many faces. 

She may appear as a strong protector, sweet nurturer, fierce motivator, and benevolent healing presence.

If your curiosity is tickled, you may dive into the 21 Taras. Yup, 21 Taras, each presenting uniquely in name, form, mantra, attribute, and practice.



You don’t have to practice Buddhism or be a yogini to seek the compassionate wisdom of Tara. 



As with every archetypal energy known as a deity or guide, you may simply call upon this compassionate, wise Mother “Tara” to establish your own personal relationship.

I’m a bit partial to the 12th Tara recently for two practical reasons.



First, I find myself soothed and transported to a space of loving presence by chanting Om Tara Tuttare along with Deva Premal and India Arie.

The blending of the devotion, open hearts, and beautiful voices of these women invoke Tara’s gift of bringing harmony to the planet.



This is a sacred mantra sung with the intent of climate balancing since one of Tara’s “jobs” is to regulate the seasons and prevent natural disasters.



Here’s the second (very cool) thing. With every streaming of this Om Tara (climate balancing) chant on whatever music platform you use, a donation is made to 4ocean. This organization was founded by 2 surfers who were dismayed by the amount of plastic in the ocean in Bali. As the ocean deposited humanity’s plastic trash on the not so pristine Bali beaches, a movement was born.



4ocean hires fisherman around the world to“fish” plastic out of the ocean. 



As beaches and waterways are cleaned, local crews are employed full time with fair wages, health insurance, incentives, and community education.

All funded with partnerships, donations, and recycled plastic products and 4ocean signature bracelets for sale.




I’m singing the plastic out of the ocean thanks to Deva, India, and Spotify.


As I write, I’m chanting this beautiful mantra.

Spotify is playing it on repeat. As I begin again (and again), I envision committed people removing pounds of plastic that never should’ve been dumped, dropped, or blown into the ocean in the first place. 



I envision turtles, jellyfish, krill, and whales swimming freely through plastic free oceans. Eating their natural diet instead of synthetic trash.



While I’m invoking this compassionate Mother Tara, the waters in my body are harmonized. My imaginative dreaming conspires with my heart to call forth a future Earth that is healthy for all creatures, turtles and humans alike. 



I’m a bit tickled by the sweet synchronicity of this chance to stream and donate. 



Here’s why. Last year, my family chose to plant trees for everyone’s birthdays and celebrations. We planted over 1500 baby trees in Haiti, Peru, and the Amazon. All doing their part to restore balance to our ecosystem. This year, we’re celebrating by pulling pounds of plastic out of the ocean with our donations to 4ocean. (Spoiler alert, birthday peeps.) You can learn more in the HeartWarming News below.



In the meantime, I’m chanting harmony within my body and whatever environment I’m inhabiting in the moment.

Remembering the wise adage: to change the outer world, you must first change your inner world.

As I sing, I trust that compassionate Tara-like ripples are traveling wherever they are needed. 



As I use less plastic and pick up trash blowing through parking lots and hiking trails, I think “Om Tara” and feel gratitude for those 4 Ocean angels who are doing the same in oceans, rivers, and beaches around the world.



If you want to join me for some live Om Tara chanting next Thursday, May 18th, come to Soul Sanctuary to chant within the Light Cathedrals (click Blue Box for details). 


Anywhere you live, remember that you don’t have to be a yogi or even chant to stream this beautiful music that funds ocean clean up. This chant also creates beautiful background music to harmonize your inner environment, office, and home. Search for Tara Mangalartha Mantra (Climate Balancing) by Deva Premal and India Arie. Hit repeat and float within harmony.



In fact, you don’t have to chant with Tara, pick up trash, or donate to 4ocean to bring harmony to our shared planet. 



You be you. However you settle into peace, ripple goodness, or contribute to a sustainable planet is wonderful. The only challenge I’ll offer is to up your game. That’s my intent and I’d love to know we’re making an even bigger difference together this year. 



While we’re celebrating Great Mothers like Pachamama and Tara, I’ll wish all of you a Happy Mother’s Day.

Whether you’re responsible for raising a child or engaged in the very human task of nurturing one another, I hope you celebrate yourself. 



Mothering matters. 



I hope you become a really great mother to yourself so you can get busy nurturing, respecting, and empowering others to be uniquely and perfectly great in their own way.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

4ocean is a conscious company committed to the wellbeing of the planet, marine life and ecosystems, and local communities. They serve 12 locations including Indonesia, Guatemala, Florida (Osbourne Reef), and Hawaii. They’ve recovered 28, 778, 685 pounds of trash so far. The average person uses 9 pounds of single use plastic a month. You can both reduce your plastic usage and pay 4ocean to “pull pounds” or order a 4ocean recycled bracelet to remind you of your commitment. Learn more at 4ocean.com.

Posted on by

Prayers for Pachamama

I’ve been spending a lot of time in the ocean recently.

That’s something for someone who doesn’t like to go in past her knees. Unless it’s a warm sunny beach in Florida or the Caribbean, then I’m all in. At least until I cool off, then I’m back to letting the sun warm me up.

Seems that’s been a big problem for years. That beautiful sun warming up our planet.

As you well know, it’s heating up the oceans. Melting the ice caps at an alarming rate. Shrinking the home of the polar bears and penguins. As these oceans heat up and rise up, they’re disrupting life in and out of the water. Marine heat waves, coral bleaching, drowning wetlands, and changes in weather.

The scientific findings across the board are hard to look at, let alone digest.

The impact of changing weather, reduced food sources, increased drought conditions, loss of species, and more severe storms are affecting all people and places on this beautiful planet. No place is untouched, especially in a large ecosystem that we call Earth. 



Where everything is connected in a complex, intelligent dance.

While some deny climate change, others despair, and many hide their heads in the sand, people around the globe are seeking creative solutions to not only correct the damage, but to enhance life. Now and in the future.

These are the scientists, adolescents, leaders of industry, and the man living down the street from you. All doing their part to creatively lessen the damage and restore the potential of a healthy ecosystem.

Melting ice caps make my eyes water. Beached whales, chemical laden food, and mistreated children do the same.

A future with further disruption to our fragile ecosystem has me wondering what else I may do to make a difference. I’ve been examining my daily habits, material usage, chosen charities, ethical purchasing, garden planting, and humanitarian pursuits.

My eyes are still watering and I want to offer more. But, where do I place my attention, talent, and love?

When I asked this question, I was reminded of the Andean wisdom tradition (Peru) which holds 3 foundational guides of living.

First, you consider the impact of your actions on all living creatures and the planet. Known as Ayni or reciprocity, you recognize that the way you live impacts your community, the global family, Earth (Pachamama), and future generations.

Second, the Beauty Way calls you to seek and see the beauty in all people, all beings, and all situations. To create beauty as you move through your moments.

Third, Dreaming the World into Being is a co-creative process. Aligning with the energy of creation, outside of time and in sync with the Soul, you open to what wishes to be dreamed through you.

Ayni. Beauty. Dreaming a new world into being.

The art of dreaming beauty goes beyond meeting your own needs and wants. It dives within the mystical energy to reveal what may be and invites you hold that dream strongly. To be open to instruction about how to live, love, and serve.

With this reminder, I recognized something I could do without scientific knowledge, policy making power, or billions of bucks.

I began dreaming of a future with pristine oceans, bountiful gardens, and healthy children.

I traveled far into the future as you know it. 7 generations and then 49 generations forward.

Seeking the energy of waters abundant with healthy marine life and absent of plastics and harmful chemicals. I found the abundant gardens overflowing with healthy food and equitable access. I witnessed children who were physically, emotionally, and mentally healthy.

I found a culture of conscious interdependence with a focus upon committed stewardship of Pachamama and her creatures, love for humanity, and abundant sharing of resources.

A seeming Eden or a fairy tale where humans didn’t destroy one another and their environment. I wondered what to do with these visions and this energy of a distant future. Asking the question, I got my answer.

“Paint this future into the now.” And so I did, birthing the “Prayers for Pachamama” series of original paintings.

All Prayers for Pachamama paintings are one of a kind and infused with the energy of hope, optimism, and healing.

This dream seemed to focus in three areas, so I created 3 separate series of paintings to honor these intentions.

“Precious Petals” paintings dream of healthy children who are cherished, heathy, and empowered to thrive. “Pristine Oceans” paintings celebrate unpolluted waters with abundant marine life and perfect temperatures. “Blooming Gardens” paintings envision a balanced ecosystem, abundant food and wildlife, and plenty of beauty.

When I paint, I witness the visions that flow through my inner sight as I feel the joy of living in a world where our collective healing has already taken hold.

To say this is a euphoric process of artistic creation would be an understatement.
It’s a dance party of sound, prayer, color, movement, and happiness.

With texture and depth, the richness of this dreaming comes to life on a canvas. Each painting radiates energy into your present reality as if seeding a map for you to awaken the next steps toward healing yourself, your great grandchildren, and our lovely Earth. They’re more than just a pretty painting. This energy has something to say to you.

Hang a painting in your space and expect to get some “instructions” on how to be a beautiful steward for the children, gardens, and planet.

I hope you enjoy the painting featured above. It’s called “Rising Ocean” and it represents the emergence of healthy oceans. I’ll be posting more photos soon or you can always stop into Soul Sanctuary to take a peek.

If I create a painting just for you, I’ll include your family and future generations into the creation process. Yum.

However you dream or take tiny big actions to support Pachamama, I’m sure we’ll all be feeling your gifts. It takes more than a village. It takes a global family to make change of this magnitude.

I’m glad we’re related

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Are you a conscious shopper? With so much information available on the web these days, it becomes easier to research your products before you purchase. While some companies report how much they give back to local communities or donate (often a requirement of doing business in a certain location), many businesses take it a step further. Innovative technology, sustainable materials, reducing harmful emissions, caring well for workers, repurposed materials. It makes good sense for the planet and also good cents for the company. There are plenty of ways to win. It takes time to become an educated consumer and investor. Explore one thing at a time and make a change for good. Your good. Pachamama’s good. Our shared future kinda good. 

Posted on by

Light Begets Light

Just a quick LOVE note after a day of connecting at the Holistic Health and Healing Expo.

I met so many wonderful new and already known people on Sunday. It was a bit of a whirlwind with lots of laughter, hugs, mini catch ups, and invitations. I feel like my Sacred Art was blessed by the positive energy of the event. Thanks so much for the quick chat. If I missed you or you weren’t there, I hope for that quick chat or more in the future. (Hit me up with an email just to say hello).

My takeaway? It’s good to be in the light.

Surrounded by those seeking to allow their Soulful radiance to emerge. Through the challenges of living human which, as you know, dims the light and dampens the joy. It takes a toll on the physical, mental, and emotional bodies in so many ways. Kudos to Natural Awakenings for creating a space with so many different options for healing all levels. 

That’s the beauty of a gathering of light seekers – everyone shines brighter as a result of coming together.  

The world has always needed people filled with hope, optimism, courage, and vision. AND the capacity to transform the systems that aren’t enlightened into systems that are on purpose to live in harmony in a way that benefits all beings and the planet.  

It seems we’re all a little brighter as a result of hanging out with other beautiful Souls.

I’m reflecting on all of the places and people which brighten my resolve to become a better human. I believe your growth is enhanced when you get conscious about who you are hanging with, what you are doing together, and what emerges for the benefit of others.

Light begets light. Love begets Love.

While this may be obvious during all of your spiritual or humanistic explorations, I’m also interested in the mundane encounters. Where normal life happens without the mention of spiritual evolution, transforming through challenge, or waking the heck up. Like my love chat with my dog this morning, my text exchange with the ladies in my extended family, and my conversation with a business colleague yesterday. 

Love is everywhere present.

In you. In them. And especially in times of conflict, inner grumpiness, and feeling lost.

I like to play that game of “Seek and Find” just like I did with my friends in the neighborhood.

I usually start with myself and seek to find some light even in the midst of any dimness or disappointment in the moment. I get my full game on especially when I’m made uncomfortable by another person, group belief, or situation in the world.

You can be enthusiastic when dropped into the dark, your “shadow” included! I saw proof of that when the lights went out at the expo.

In the midst of an Angel session, the place went dark. (That’s funny timing and the Angels are now cracking up. So, I wonder who orchestrated that tiny drama.) As the electric light disappeared, all exhibitors and attendees seemed to joyfully yell “Whoaaa!” as they laughed. And laughed.

When the lights returned (quickly), there was applause, excited chatter, and more laughter.

Let there be light. And I hope you gleefully yell "Whoaaaa!" next time you drop into your darkness. 

You can grab these [really] helpful Freebies if you want to return to balance quickly when your light dims.

Everything is available for your choosing on my Free Resources page. 

Whoa! YES, I want those Freebies! I’m clicking now!

My intent is that you have the knowledge and skills to work with your own light body, stress response system, and mindset. Without needing anyone to guide you. Whenever you need it. 

The Self Soothe Strategy and The Light Globe Meditation harmonize your LightBody.

As in the Light of your biofield or aura and the Light of your energy system. All 72,000 light pathways (nadis, meridians), chakras, and particle waves within your whole being. Your LightBody also includes the physical body you see and feel. So, let’s get that organized (and reorganized) with the power of a coherent heart rhythm which influences changes in your chemistry, light structures, neural pathways, and communication within all systems.

The proof is in the pudding. (Old wisdom … to test it, you taste it).

So, download The Self Soothe Strategy PlayBook AND read it. Listen to the accompanying mp3 meditation a few times. Then, it’s all you. Drop in anytime you want, without the recording, and receive the benefits.  Same with the Light Globe meditation. Give a few listens and then do it on your own. 

You wouldn’t head out into the world without a shower, brushing your teeth, or wearing clothes, now would you?

Taking care of your energy body is essential if you want to feel good, heal, grow, shine bright, and all that good stuff.

If you’re into Angels and want to start or strengthen your relationship with them, check out my freebie Angelic Reminders.

It’s a year long “Nugget Course.” I’m really into learning and practicing “nugget style.” [You already know that if you’re in my classes, retreats, or private sessions. Nuggets are my jam.]. You’ll get a mini lesson in one paragraph and a tiny prayer every week for one year.

Check in, play with the suggestion, and you’ll be hanging out with more Angels than you can currently imagine. Have fun with that.

And one more time …..
Whoa! YES, I want those Freebies! I’m clicking now!

 

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Social Connectedness is really important.  Both like minded folks and people that think and live differently from you empower you to feel a part of the human family. You, and the entire world, learned a lot during the isolation of quarantine during the worldwide pandemic. Yet, everyone may experience social isolation, loneliness, or less than fulfilling connections with others. Whether you listen to podcasts or read articles, head over to the Greater Good Science Center at Cal Berkley. They offer a lot of research, great tips, and compassionate understanding of the challenges of living human. Here’s a podcast about Social Connection if you’re interested. Link takes you to GGSC website.

Posted on by

Wanderlust. A Traveling Dream.

I had a dream. To be clear, it was a personal dream.

It was January, 2020 and as I visioned my new dreams for the year, I felt a longing to travel arise within me. To see this beautiful world. To visit my favorite people and make new friends. It wasn’t just a vacation or two kind of dreaming. It was bigger than that. I was gonna learn how to travel a lot and build my current and new work into my trips. I was excited and raring to go.

Enter the pandemic.

With a nod toward my dreaming, I put it on a shelf and pivoted. I shopped for those who couldn’t go out. I cared for those who were sick. I spent time alone in Soul Sanctuary as I brought my therapy and classes online. I created a new website. I played a lot of board games, took drives with my daughter, and ZOOMed my friends and family.

I did what everyone else did. Grateful to be healthy and happy to be nourished at home.

Somewhere in the midst of 2022, I recalled that dream. And realized how all that pivoting allowed me the freedom now to launch myself and my computer across the friendly skies. Inadvertently I had been taking Tiny Actions toward this dream of expanding my horizons without even realizing it.

Such is the beauty and power of the Reticular Activating System. That google like part of your brain that works 24/7 on your visions and clear goals.

Hallelujah. I grabbed my computer and headed to Florida to see my kid.

In July. That’s funny. I went from one heat wave to another. As any parent knows, if your kid invites you to visit, you jump on the chance. Packing my sunscreen, beach clothes, and computer, I launched my year of exploring how to work while traveling.

I failed miserably at the work part and had a blast on the beach.

I learned it helps if you schedule something before you leave. In my subsequent trips to the Redwoods in California, Christmas in Florida, and a long jaunt to California and Hawaii, I’ve learned a lot about balancing this dream. Writing on long plane rides, mornings of scheduled time with lovely ladies, and on the go managing of business details seems to work for me. 

I think I’ve come up with a new formula.

Work hard while at home and work lightly while traveling.

Leaving time for relaxation, meaningful visits with new and old friends, time in nature, and exploration of new places. Trying to fit in too much just leaves me a bit unbalanced, which defeats the whole point of leaving home.

My most important discovery is how my wanderlust has been fully awakened.

I met a woman on a deserted beach in Northern California. She shared some of her travels through the 23 countries she had visited. I left that conversation with a longing to see this beautiful world and a feeling that I’ve missed that boat.

Talking with my husband, I recounted my worldly journeys through the years and discovered I had visited 17 countries. So maybe I’ve missed nothing even while my longing strengthens.

I’m back to dreaming about traveling again. My eagerness is balanced with a healthy dose of experience about how best to prepare, when to schedule work, my ideal travel pace, where to save or splurge, and how to become really flexible with expectation.

Oh yeah. And my preference for comfort.

Having been bumped up to business class a few times, I had no argument when my husband facilitated his own bump on the long flights to and from California.

I’m practicing my flexibility even now as I paused writing this blog to be served lunch. I just finished my lasagne, salad, and ice cream sundae. Much better than pretzels and water in coach. And space. I love the space offered by fewer people and quieter locales.

Crowded cities, traffic, beaches, and restaurants aren’t my idea of paradise.

Learning what makes the experience worthwhile is essential. I’m taking good notes this year of “practice traveling.” So I know when to work or not work. How to play slow or fast. And how to pack light. Well, that’s a work in progress, one which I hope to master very soon.

I’m ready to dream again this week in my Sacred Intent Visioning Retreat on Saturday.

I feel like my travel dream is launched and that research will continue naturally. My current longing for simplicity seems at odds with the wanderlust on steroids feeling I’ve got. Yet, I know my Soul is speaking to me and I’m looking forward to listening deeply.

My Soul has a dream. It’s a personal dream. And a dream for humanity.

I don’t understand how my little self and my small dreams fit into the larger picture. This much I know for sure: I don’t have to understand anything. Just drop within the stillness of my being and listen deeply. And walk through my moments with relaxed alertness so that I may find the clues which mark the perfect path.

I look forward to being home. Seeing my dog. Returning to Soul Sanctuary. And connecting meaningfully with the people and places in my own backyard.

I haven’t missed anything. And likely won’t miss traveling when I’m experiencing the joy of connection and purpose while at home. That’s another thing I learned. I’m not missing anything, even as I discover the worlds I never knew existed.

Wherever I go, there I am.

That’s a work in progress as well. To let the planning, dreaming, and moving happen organically while staying firmly grounded in the present moment. Full, complete, and at peace.

I’m getting a few hints about this budding dream of simplicity as I write. 

About the nature of living in gratitude for what (who) is here, curious about what else is possible, and being open to a whole new (unknown) adventure. I’m going to read my book now (which means I’ll soon be napping), while I let this seed of a Soul Dream root deeply within my being.

I was just served my water and pretzels.

Seems there is goodness offered wherever I sit. I’ll reexamine my previous dismissal of this gift with an open, appreciative heart. And since I’m so full, I’ll pass them onto my husband.

If I can find him in this roomy cabin in the clouds.

 

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Are you a sensation seeker or an experience seeker? The former love adventure travel, jumping out of airplanes and eating crispy critters considered a delicacy in some cultures. While high risk, adrenaline adventures aren’t for everyone, they offer you a few valuable lessons. Go with the flow is more than a chirpy saying. It’s an entry into a flow state in which you are in sync with your experience, the environment, and others. Experiencing awe is another hallmark of the thrill seeker. These are two components to cultivate if you wish to flourish in life, rather than settle for surviving. You may want to bypass the cliff diving, but still have a strong inner desire to seek new experiences. Being flexible with expectations, going with the flow, and surrendering to awe are guidelines for all adventurers in this journey of life.

Posted on by

Let’s Do Some Good

 

Everyday I hear stories of pain. From the small empathic misses to the gross violation of human preciousness.

Everyday I seek stories of inspiration. From the tiny action of a kind sentence to a life committed to doing good.

I understand deeply that the world we live in is filled with wonder and horror. Small moments of contentment and big experiences of despair. It’s all part of life and that won’t change. Despite efforts to control the uncontrollable, you continue to ride that rollercoaster of highs and lows. I imagine life will keep on offering you everything as long as you’re breathing. So, what do you or I do about that?

I’m practicing showing up to whatever is showing up to me. As fully and completely as I can.

If an infuriating news story, personal disappointment, or tragic occurrence shows up in my face, then it’s also living in my energy field, my body, and my history. I see this as an invitation to clean it up inside myself. To process my grief, anger, sorrow, disappointment, or any other contracting emotion I may experience. These are clues, personally directed to show me the places in me that are still holding on to old energy, resentments, beliefs, and wounds. Enough all ready.

I’m ready to let it all go just like Elsa in Frozen. 

How to do that? With any tool, strategy, technique, or made up ceremony that holds the core intention to process this old stuff (energy, emotion, belief, hurt) out of your system. If your toolbox isn’t filled with techniques, mine is. And I’m happy to help you let it all go.

For starters, check out my free Self Soothe Strategy to learn the power of Energy Psychology and Heart Assisted Therapy.

I cry easily. It's predictable. If I'm inspired by a story, I'm quick to commence boo hooing.

 

I hope to cry at least once a day. Hopefully more.



When my intent is to seek those who inspire me, I’m typically rewarded with a plethora of moving moments. Yesterday I wished I had150 years left on this planet ’cause I was just that inspired to join the most amazing people, projects, and goodness that was oozing out of everybody I met or witnessed via the media. 



Humans are such benevolent, creative creatures and they fill me with wonder.



I witnessed really good parenting, a young person’s kind heart even in the midst of a despairing time, an entire crowd of people singing in public with a homeless man, a genius who is cleaning plastic out of rivers, and a man feeding the hungry with dignity (and fresh produce).



Every time I’m moved, I recognize that desire to do good which lives within me. Beating as strongly as my own heart. 



As I enter this month of December and the many Sacred Celebrations and Giving Traditions, I wonder how to stay grounded within this desire to do good. I’m not looking to set the world on fire with grand gestures. More like sharing Tiny Actions of Goodness everywhere I travel. I wonder if you’d want to join me? When you become conscious in your intent to Do Some Good and to Seek the Good, it’s amazing what unfolds.



Goodness litters your path. 



Sometimes you are the one bestowing it upon others and the world, often without even noticing. Other times, you catch the benevolence of another’s tiny to big words or actions. Another benefit of the Tiny Goodness is the simplicity with which a word, smile, action, or quiet gift is dispensed. Often without the recipient being aware that it is you who are littering in their moment. 



Stealth Beneficence has a way of flying under the radar of the egoic mind.



That’s a good thing. So, you don’t get all full of your good self or secretly look to see how others are praising your holy name. This season, let’s leave people to praise THE Holy Name. Whatever is held true in their hearts.



Leaving us free to Do Some Good. Quietly with glee. 


Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

33 million people are food insecure in the United States. That statistic makes me cry and they aren’t happy tears. It does motivate me to donate quality food to sources that pass out the food with dignity to those who will benefit. Creative new offerings like refrigerators stocked with fresh produce, microloans to allow families to supplement food purchases, and quality food delivery in economically challenged neighborhoods are helping. Shifting the norm of offering stale bread and dented cans of peas and peaches to those in need of nourishment. Food is not a luxury. It is medicine for the body: brain, gut, and energy. What action might you take that makes a tiny tummy feel better and a person feel respected?

Posted on by

Backwards Gratitude Fuels Forward Expansion

I’m so grateful for you and all the good things in my life. Gobble. Gobble. Let’s eat.

Thanksgiving offers a cornucopia of gratitude. From the heart appreciation for friends, family, colleagues, and the Divine expression of good (by any name you choose. It’s a feel good time. Smiles and hugs. Thankful texts. Maybe even some old fashioned Hallmark cards with handwritten notes.

A few days of heartfelt appreciation gives way to Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Giving Tuesday.

Ugh. The emails. The ads. The holiday music. The cornucopia of consumerism powered by FOMO. Pulling your attention away from that lovely reflection about who and what adds meaning to your life. Pouring it right into what you need to buy for whom and when you’re going to give it to them and how to schedule every holiday activity. Phew. Or the focus reminds you of who or what you are missing, thus dreading the season of cheery ho ho ho. Ouch.

Perhaps you might take a moment and harness the power of appreciation a bit differently this year?

What if you took time to sit and reflect, really reflect, on all the things, people, shitty occurrences, and opportunities you encountered over this past year? And how every last one offers you the chance to be really, truly grateful. Maybe you can only garner a seed of appreciation or perhaps your heart blows open and spews gratitude confetti all over the world.

Either way, I wonder what you’d discover if you gave yourself one concentrated hour of Backwards Gratitude.

“What/who was I grateful for this year and why?” This questions invitees you to float through your memories to discover the riches hidden there. You can make lists in your journal, replay your memory movies, or scroll your photos to get a thorough “look” at this year’s events.

However you do it, I’ll bet you discover something important.

You experienced a lot of grateful moments this past year. So many that they slipped through your fingers (only to be found in a simple hour of reflection). I bet you missed plenty of opportunities to savor and share your appreciation. Because you jumped back into your schedule and focused forward on that next thing.

Upon reflection, I imagined you identified what was really important and brought you comfort, joy, satisfaction, and laughter.

Backwards gratitude may be used to launch you into a New Year of consciously creating a life filled with meaning, deep connection, and heartfelt appreciation for every little thing.

 

It’s an easy thing to do if you keep it simple, put it in front of your face, and get some partners to play the appreciation game in real time.

First, start with simple. What are 3 areas you were really, truly grateful for this past year? Put them in categories like loving relationships, meaningful work, fun adventures, or developing skills. What or who fits in each of the 3 categories? Take a moment to notice if there was a blossom (fully grown gratitude), a seed (needs some work to feel appreciative), or some dirt (missed the appreciation thing cause you were too busy complaining or feeling victimized). Imagine your life if these 3 categories began to blossom.

Make a commitment to grow this Gratitude Garden in the New Year.

Second, put it in front of your face. Research shows that if you write something down or create a visual (art, mantra, goals, vision board, graph) AND put it where you review it on a regular basis, you have a better shot at bringing that desire into your life. Your reticular activating system is the part of your brain that acts like a search engine. When you see your intent daily or review it weekly, your brain seeks every way to bring it into form 24/7.

Make it visual, put it where you’ll see it, and schedule time to review how well you are gardening these desires.

Third, once you’ve done your Backwards Gratitude, share it with someone else. Ask them to take a moment and find some big little people, things, or circumstances they really appreciated last year. Game on.

Gathering your playmates enhances the potential of making this next year something to cheer about.

When you share the 3 areas of your life you want to nourish through gratitude, you’ll find a built in support. Make that commitment to check in with each other in any way that feels helpful. Doing so throughout the year will increase the chance that next year’s Thanksgiving week will be something to celebrate.

I’m feeling grateful just imagining you with your confetti spewing heart at next year’s Thanksgiving feast.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

I have a friend who has researched this simple, in your face, share it with someone approach. Turns out it really works. She’s impressive. On New Year’s Day, she puts a huge blank paper on the wall. Every night before bed, she grabs a colored marker and writes something she is grateful for. Big things. Tiny things. I bet she stays up past her bedtime some nights, just overdosing on all that colorful appreciation. How many times must she just have to text, call, or hug somebody with all that gratitude spilling out of her? On December 31st, she sits down with her 365 memories and reviews her year. My heart just squirts out confetti imagining her New Year’s Eve review. And then she begins the practice again. Wow. So impressive, my friend. I’m so grateful for you in my life.

Posted on by

I’m a Secret Librarian

True confession. I’m a book nerd. 

Reading is one of the great pleasures of my life. As long as I remember, I’ve devoured books. My home is filled with artistic book piles in most rooms. Set there to lure me onto the couch in order to gain a little knowledge or get lost in an imaginative adventure. 

I’ll trade sleep for a good book and often am running late to an event because “I’m at a good part.”

I never hop on a plane without two books. One to study and one to invite me into a new world. I overpack books on vacations so that I can choose the read of the day from my traveling library. For practicality’s sake, I tried, against my better judgment, to train myself to use a Nook but I missed the paper and ink too much. 

It’s no wonder I view book stores as my playground.   

Some of my best writing and creative projects have occurred in the cafe at my local Barnes and Noble. It’s as if I enter a zone or portal of creativity whenever I settle in to write there. I can work for hours, almost unaware of others around me, only to surface for an enjoyable break perusing the shelves. It doesn’t matter what department I enter, I find the perfect books and read a few pages. It’s a habit, I guess. Gathering a pile of books to “look at” and heading down a rabbit hole while sitting on the floor, engrossed by someone’s research or creative expression of genius.

I think this is where my career as a secret librarian began. In Barnes and Noble.

While my eyes scan the book shelf, I inadvertently notice authors out of alphabetical order or a disorganized display (gasp). Perhaps the books are left haphazardly laying upon the rows, even from other sections, as if someone dropped them there without regard. This desire to neaten and place books where they belong also arises in the public library, but doesn’t seem to cross over to other areas of my life.

I think it’s a love affair with the written word that has me working incognito. 

If I followed my bliss and spent more time at Barnes and Noble, their shelves would probably be in really great shape. It seems like a perfect volunteer position when I decide to retire. The only downside is that I’d probably discover something else to study and head back to work.

I decided to officially become a librarian when I found the perfect little free library in a nearby town.

 

I’ve seen those cute little bird house libraries and even toyed with putting one in front of my home.

That didn’t make much sense as I live on a quiet street where everyone can easily access books of their choosing. Or pop in their lovely vehicles to head to the public library or favorite bookstore. Anyway, I’m not so good with building birdhouses, even if they’re going to be filled with books.

Imagine my surprise when I noticed a little library appear at the playing fields where I sometimes walked.

People head there to walk their pets or themselves. Kids, teens, and adults use the field for personal training. Mostly it’s empty when we venture there for a nature stroll, but sometimes it is filled with the enthusiastic hustle and bustle of kids or teens practicing their favorite sport.

A summer evening may fill the place with kids practicing football, lacrosse, soccer, or cheerleading.

Game days bring the parents, siblings, and grandparents who overflow beyond the small bleachers to lawn chairs. It’s fun to watch and brings back memories of the thrill of little league games and working in the snack bar.

So, I’m already primed for enjoyment walking by that tiny free library. It draws me in.

I saw a bunch of old adult books. The kind you clean out after 20 years of sitting in your study. They sat there for weeks. Nothing coming in and nothing coming out. Plus they weren’t displayed well. Just sayin’. With all these hundreds of kids and teens running around, some old Tom Clancy books weren’t fitting the bill. So, I tried an experiment. I found some young adult fiction I had read in pristine shape.

A week later, the books were missing. Tom Clancy remained.

When I read fiction, which is the only book I’ll pass on, you’d never know it was read. I take off the cover and use a book mark. It’s a book nerd thing. I started to experiment. Dropping off a trilogy with really fat books looking brand new. They disappeared. I rustled through the books my kid never read. Hardbacks. Fiction. Biographies of brave girls. All gone.

I only drop books when no one is around. Hence the secret part of my librarian title.

And I send each book with a wealth of wishes. I talk to the book(s) as I head over to the tiny house. “I hope you find the perfect home and inspire someone to know how creative they are. I hope you help someone discover a love of reading .. create new authors .. encourage innovation .. alleviate loneliness .. open minds. I hope you travel well and enjoy your adventure.”

Of course I cleaned up that dusty box so whomever it serves has a lovely library that respects the books and their readers.  

Not everyone supports the idea of free little libraries. 

Some dissenters feel they take away from services offered by the free public library system. Or are a harbinger of attempts to gentrify urban neighborhoods. Two librarians from Canada described these cute little birdhouse free libraries as “a highly visible form of self-gratification cleverly disguised as book aid.”  Most supported the idea of these as a resource or an enjoyable hobby or just another way to share a love of creative projects, good reads, and generosity.

I guess since I just outed my secret about tending to a little free library in a diverse neighborhood, I’m now engaged in a highly visible project of self-gratification. 

Yup. I’m unapologetic. I love books. I love little cute libraries. I love being a secret librarian. And I love my public library. 

I’ll skip the cute tiny libraries in affluent neighborhoods and stick to the two I’ve found that serve a more diverse economic population. I’ve got no regrets, even as I acknowledge my flagrant self-gratification as a book nerd do gooder. Imagining children, teens, or adults grabbing a good book warms my little librarian heart.

In the end, I don’t really care who takes my books, if they are returned, or where they travel. 

I just trust they will land in the perfect hands to be read at the perfect time. As long as they disappear and I’ve got (good) books to share, I’m hired. I’ll let you decide where you land in this (mild) controversy about cute mini houses with free books. Read all about it here.     

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Excess screen time for teens has detrimental effects. I bet you know that already. Especially with US teens averaging 7-8 hours/day. Ouch. University of Queensland researchers conducted a global study which found some benefits for teen screen time. In the first hour. Detrimental effects snuck in after 75 minutes for girls and 105 minutes for boys. Things like poor diet, obesity, depression, and decreased cognitive and physical abilities. The best combo? An hour of physical activity and no more than 2 hours screen time contributed to teens wellbeing. I bet those kids at the playing field who snag a good book are headed into the wellbeing category. For book nerds like me? Put down the book, get off that couch, and go take a walk!

Posted on by

Come Home to your Cosmic Self

I know this photo. I recognize it from the inside out.

When I gather with others at Soul Sanctuary to sing the chants from the kundalini yogic tradition, something happens to me. My breathing and heart rate slow, along with my thoughts. My mood brightens as the world within and around me feels complete. Resting within my body, so comfortable within this peaceful sensation, I’ve come home to myself.

I know this photo. I witness this harmony on the faces of those around me.

Opening my eyes while chanting, I see only beauty as some sit in stillness and others sing. Relaxed bodies with beatific expressions translating the harmony of the cosmos. Candlelight softening the outlines in the room as an experience of floating in the heavens captures my attention, inviting my eyes to close. So I may float.

I know this photo. I hear it translated as each person shares their experience.

Another layer of restoration emerges as each participant shares a personal experience. How an insight shifted a view of self, life, situations, or the world. Or the contrast of how they felt before and after chanting. The simple to profound nature of these comments never fails to delight and inform all who are present.

One hour singing prayers of devotion in a candlelit salon activates a stillness so deep that wholeness is rediscovered.

This is a beautiful research study: each participant a subject in their own experimental design. It begins with noticing how you feel, what is on your mind (active in your life), and identifying your intent for the evening. It ends with a very real awareness that something has shifted in your body, emotions, cognitions, and outlook.

This isn’t a formal research project. We’ll leave that to the scientists.

The field of neurotheology studies the relationship between the brain and spiritual practices.

 

There is no requirement to follow a particular religion or spiritual belief system. It’s not that kind of exploration.

As researchers explore the effect of chanting upon the brain and nervous system, they suggest there are benefits to your wellbeing. As this field grows, I expect more findings and wider exploration.

Chanting has been found to effect the brain differently than prayer or meditation.

Some reported benefits include improvements in sleep, mood, blood pressure, and cognitive health. Reductions in symptoms of general stress, anxiety, and depression have been identified.

While it is encouraging that the study of chanting, prayer, or meditation is expanding, you can explore these benefits on your own.

Do your own research. Every brain, body, and life is different. Same for belief systems and preferences about how to connect with that which is meaningful. Yet, across this variety, the research suggests that when you chant, pray, or meditate, your brain, heart, and nervous system are positively affected.

How to proceed, then, with the idea of improvement through chanting or any spiritual/secular practice you choose?

Get curious. Try out different styles of chanting, mantra meditation, yoga, meditation, sound healing, or contemplation in nature. Discover what feels best for your body, mind, and mood. If something feels good, keep exploring. If it leaves you flat, let it go. No monks, fMRIs, or complex statistics required. You are in the N=1 research project with you as the only subject.

If you’re local to Soul Sanctuary and want to Chant in the Light Cathedrals, please join us.

We’ll be celebrating the light by chanting on November 17th and December 15th.

Sharing a practice with a group enhances the experience. It allows you to sink deeply within the activity of chanting until you become the energy of that sacred prayer. As this happens organically, you remember something at all levels of your being.

You belong to this cosmic harmony because you are the song of the universe.

If chanting isn’t for you, I hope you find that sweet spot that leaves you feeling as if that picture above captures your experience perfectly.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Can chanting to contribute to brain health and cognitive decline? Researchers Dharma Singh Kalsa and Andrew Newberg outlined a new concept in medicine called Spiritual Fitness in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease (2021). Suggesting the importance of incorporating practices which address stress reduction, basic wellbeing, and psycho/spiritual wellbeing to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The authors report that the Kirtan Kriya (Kundalini yoga meditation involving chant and mudra)may have an effect on Alzheimer’s disease prevention as it’s been shown to mitigate effects chronic stress cognition, addresses memory loss, and supports spiritual and psychological wellbeing. Do your own research. Click here for instructions and search for a recording you can sing with.

Posted on by

The Energy You Carry

In my neck of the woods, the trees are painting the neighborhoods and highways with beautiful hues of orange, yellow, burgundy, and red.

This Fall foliage puts on quite a show. Trees bursting with color as they dance alone or in a group, always in harmony with the breeze. The single leaf which spirals down or dances wildly with others until gathering in picturesque arrangements on the lawns, complemented by colorful mums and pumpkins. 

Yesterday invited me to witness nature’s beauty as I drove long distances, zig zagging across two states, to arrive at my destination. 

My journey unfolded beneath overcast skies, dampening the potential to witness the brilliance of Fall’s beauty. Mapping my route, I chose the scenic path rather than the most efficient. I was at choice and content to take my time.

I travelled with speed along the highway, slowly meandered through country roads, and crept over a bridge barely wide enough for two vehicles. I was unexpectedly rerouted twice due to construction and a washed out bridge, adding time and miles to my journey. I encountered heavy traffic, wide open roads, slow moving drivers, and many traffic signals telling me to stop, go, or slow.

While I chose the destination and mapped my preferred route, the quality of this journey was determined by many unknown factors beyond my control. (Kinda like life).

Traveling home, I delighted in the otherworldly light streaming from the heavens and dispelling the gloom. Brightening everything, including my mood, this light highlighted the interconnected dance of the breeze, leaves, traffic, sparking water, and my breath. All flowing together in perfect harmony. This exquisite beauty was not dimmed by rush hour traffic, inconsistent drivers, or the inefficient route mapped by the computer in my car. 

Within this harmony, momentary frustration vanished in a breath and inner wisdom highlighted a route more efficient and pleasant.

It was not lost on me that my experience mimicked the movement of vital life force through my body. 

Your body’s functioning is informed by a complex network of energetic pathways. 

This energy matrix, which informs your wellbeing or dis-ease, is constructed of light pathways known as meridians and nadis. Intersecting within energy centers known as chakras aligned along your spine, above and below you, and within your hands and feet. 

You may imagine this energetic network of light to have its version of super highways, four lane roads, neighborhood streets, tiny alleys, and bridges galore. 

Growing up human naturally involves countless situations when this energetic system was overwhelmed by your physical, chemical, emotional, and relational experiences. Like that time the teacher embarrassed you in fourth grade or when your favorite pet died. When the family’s pain spilled over with emotion, addiction, physical harm, or absence. Every day that held too much for your system, for whatever reason, interfered with a clear “route” to process the energy associated with these events through your body. 


If energy doesn’t flow through you, it gets stored within you. This is the energy you carry.

 

Old, dense energy that wasn’t able to be processed through no fault of your own. Stored within your meridians and chakras, as well as living within your organs, muscles, and layers of your biofield.

So much old energy, much of it inherited from others, clogging up your roadways, washing out your bridges, and detouring your capacity to live as the bright, colorful being that you are.

With effort, you may arrive at your desired destination with enough time, grit, and effort. At times, you just get lost in the detours, drive aimlessly, or get sidelined by the accidents in your path.

It doesn’t have to be this way. The energy of life is bright, beautiful, and wants to flow freely.

When you understand that most emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual obstacles are the result of disruptions in the flow of your vital life force (chi, ki, qi), you’ve got options. The practices of energy medicine, energy psychology, acupuncture, shamanic healing, and yoga (among others) are designed to release the interference of dense, stored energy which disrupts the creative flow of life. 


You can learn simple techniques to clear your own dense energy. And I mean simple.


Practices that act like that tow truck which clears the disabled vehicle from the city street during rush hour. 



On Saturday, November 12th, I’m offering an Energy Psychology Essentials workshop at Soul Sanctuary.

I’ll be sharing a variety of really helpful energy clearing techniques that are easy to understand, practice, and use in a flexible manner. There’s no end to how you may apply these skills. If you can join me, plan to clear out a whole lotta “traffic jams” as well as go home with immediate practices for everyday use. (If you’re reading this at another time, subscribe to my WholeHearted Living Blog for other tips and event announcements).

If you can’t join me, download The Self Soothe Strategy PlayBook and mp3 recorded practice.

This gets you started “on the road” to learn a more efficient and enjoyable way to travel through life’s ups and downs. You can access that free resource here.

If you’ve experienced a lot of challenge in your life, it may be time to excavate layers of stored energy.

It doesn’t have to be hard, but it may be complex. I’m happy to explore how to address your healing in a private, individualized setting. Let me know if I can help you. 


When you lighten up your energy field, life changes. It is as simple as that.

I hope I can help you discover this for yourself.  I should mention that these self-help energy techniques are free and have one major side effect. They bring you closer to your natural state of peace and wellbeing. That’s a side effect you can celebrate no matter where you are in your journey.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Why focus on the heart in the Self Soothe Strategy? A coherent heart rhythm gives you access to the higher order brain functions of emotional regulation, decision making, and perspective taking. Research has shown that an integrated brain has many benefits, including improvements in well being, immune function, compassion, and resilience. Brain integration increases your capacity for learning when new linkages form across brain regions (neuroplasticity). And strengthens the brain’s ability to regulate emotion, attention, thought, and behavior (self regulation). This enables you to soothe your system and is essential to navigating stressful situations with an intelligent, flexible response. There’s more to it so download The Self Soothe Strategy and do your own “research.”