Category: Blog-Soulful Living

Posted on by

Wisdom in the Dark

It’s uncomfortable feeling the darkness within the belly, leaking into the day.

The waking to news that frightens, angers, and confuses you. This world gone astray. There is a longing to seek the light to chase the darkness. As if sunshine might polish circumstances into something more palatable. Shaping the story into something you can live within.

Don’t be so quick to chase the dark away.

There is wisdom within the depths of your body’s response. The power of anger, leaking of tears, flutter in the belly. Wisdom that whispers “Something is out of whack.” Knocking you off balance, unsettling your peace.

Opening the door for the mind to spin its tales. Strengthening your position, whatever it may be.

Activating a fearful future landscape that devastates your current wellbeing. Despair leading to withdrawal in order to protect. Agitation readying for a fight against that which you can not bear. Confusion as to why your fellow humans think so differently than you.

All stories are false. All stories are true. It’s how you live your stories that matters.

What if the sorrow, fear, anger, or disillusionment arrived to invite you into a deep, honest exchange? To welcome you within your stories about how the world should be. So, you may meet the storyteller within you and begin a dialogue.

Sitting within the early morning darkness, candle burning, a cup of tea, a cozy blanket. Perhaps a journal.

Here, you begin the dive within to find that which creates this sorrow that tugs at every aspect of your being. It doesn’t take much to enter the conversation for sorrow has a voice and it spills over with the heartbreak that has been contained within the body and masked by the stories.

You listen as sorrow speaks its anguish that the humans of the world have lost their way.

It begins with evidence garnered from one day of darkness, yet soon spreads to evidence of harm in all directions around the globe, throughout history, upon the planet. Including the harm done to self with judgement, dismissal of voice, and alienation of worthiness. The sorrow cries, allowing despair, disappointment, disillusionment to join the conversation. Emptying, the conversation slows as the body quiets, calmer now as the sorrow has been given its path of movement.

The sun rises, bathing the body in light. As it always does after the dark.

Allowing the eyes to see the beneficial presence of humans. Seeking in the light of day all that is helpful, generous, creative, and beautiful. This luminosity reveals what may not be noticed in the dark. Yet, it serves not as a source to eradicate discomfort. Nor shape deeply felt fear into something unimportant. The brilliance of day also reveals all that you judge, back away from, and condone as wrong.

Don’t be so quick to choose the light.

It is the turning away from that which is hidden in the dark that leads to misunderstanding and actions that harm.

Your wisdom calls you to the conversation with yourself before it sends you to share deeply with others.

What is your hope, determination, anxiety, or numbness wanting to share? Every experience has a voice and something wise to offer you.

Nature, which is your essence, models inclusion of every movement. Day gives way to night which returns itself to day. Seasons, amiss as they are, give way after allowing each to offer wisdom to those with eyes to see, ears to hear, and a body to sense. The moon dances through cycles of bright and dark, modeling the beauty and potential in each phase.

Wisdom is unpredictable and subtly changes the rhythm of the conversation.

Intelligent perception begins within the wholeness of what you’re experiencing. Inviting an inner dialogue where you discover that the stories you tell are true for you, until they are discovered to be false. Where you find yourself basking in the warm beauty revealed by despair and the breaking of the heart. Not only a place of suffering nor a refuge from pain, you journey within your darkness to discover the brightest felt sense of life. 

Here, you discover that both sorrow and joy matter. 

A lightness of being is possible within hard times and heaviness arrives even when circumstances are bright. These experiences arrive to be noticed, to offer something you may learn from and then choose to keep or discard. Moving in the rhythm of life, regardless of whether circumstances are to your liking or not, you recognize there is wisdom in insecurity and discomfort. 

There is no urgent need to deep dive into a dark that terrifies or to fly too close to the sun. 

Begin gently and with great kindness. Honor the wisdom that is being felt throughout your being, uncomfortable as it may be.

Don’t back too far away from yourself in order to mask that which feels disabling. There is potential in every movement of life, even though in times of discord it is difficult to see. Resist the urge to run helter skelter toward the light and proclaim it as the only power of good. 

The greatest potential for life lies within the wisdom of your being. 

Join with this rather than following the personal and societal stories of mind. When you can welcome uncertainty and discomfort as wise teachers, you welcome another rhythm. That which quietly hums a tune of harmony flowing within the dark and light of human existence. 

Listen carefully to the wisdom that whispers within you.

Steady and true, it leads you toward that perfect perception and inspired action which cultivates the love, respect, and generous care for every living being.

And if you haven’t downloaded The Self Soothe Strategy, now is a good time. It helps. A lot. Scroll down and get started. We need your calm.

 

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

When you despair about the harshness that humans display toward one another and the planet, take pause. In a crisis, look for the helpers, as Mr. Rogers’ mother sagely advised. The world is filled with hearts that are warm, minds that innovate, and communities that work together for the greater good of all life. Today, there is room for more benevolent and useful action. Even with a heart that is heavy, I wonder what you may offer to improve life on this planet. You are needed and it uplifts the soul to become part of a movement so generous, so loving, and so joyful that your despair lifts. And the planet lightens up. One person at a time.

Posted on by

Talk to Each Other So No One Is Alone in the Dark

It was a day of exquisite Fall beauty, poignant pain, and inspiring hope. 

We stood among 600 people gathered at a local park for the 9th annual Out of the Darkness Walk. Many groups carrying photos of lovely humans or wearing t-shirts honoring those they lost to suicide. As people milled about, there were many smiles as people connected and volunteers happily welcoming walkers. 

Palpable support and shared sorrow made serious minds and broken hearts lighter.

After checking in, we wandered through the bead garden. Colorful carnival bead necklaces hanging next to signs indicated their meaning. Different colors representing who you’ve lost: parent, friend, spouse, child. Beads to show support for those struggling with depression and rainbow beads to recognize the high risk of suicide for the LGBTQ+ community.  

Choosing the beads was sobering. A visual montage of pain and loss.

I’m not going to share the high rate of depression or suicide in the United States. You can educate yourself if you choose. The fact that there is an American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and 11 Out of the Darkness Walks in New Jersey alone speaks loudly enough. 

“There’s a lot of pain here,” I said to my husband. “Let’s focus on hope and healing.”

With that we turned to see a radiant young woman laughing with her family. We stood, basking in the sight of her vibrancy. When she turned to see us, we were swept up in hugs, laughter, and memory. A friend of my daughter’s, she went through a dark time as a teen. With love, support, and therapy, she not only made it through, she wanted to give something back.

At the tender age of 16, she organized the first Out of the Darkness Walk at this park. 

As we caught up, her Dad shared how the first walk had 50 people, mostly family and friends. Each year, awareness spread and the group walking grew to a few hundred. Now in the 9th year, he proudly shared that she arranged it all and her family were just the set up crew. Parental pride and love radiated. Unspoken was the dim memory of fear and pain every family member and friend goes through when things go dark for someone they love.

This 9th year welcomed a surge in the numbers of walkers.

I’d like to share that really good marketing led to the high attendance, but it’s a sadder story. When a young one chooses this way out of their pain, it touches the community. There were a lot of colorful t-shirts for that precious one.

And $68,000 raised for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to support education, outreach, advocacy, and resources for those struggling with depression and scary, dark thoughts.

When you struggle, it's a good idea to reach out for support. Inviting light into the darkness.

Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to reach for help, to find those receptive, or to receive support.

When you’re depressed, it gets even harder. If you aren’t surrounded by helping forces, reach out to the 24 hour crisis and suicide support hotline. Dialing 988 gets you there.

As the walk began, hundreds of people stood quietly waiting until it was time to step onto the path. It was a reverent silence broken only by enthusiastic barking as canine walkers greeted one another. Without any invitation, it seemed as if people turned inward to focus upon their reason for being there. The hush remained when passing a woman sitting on a bench, her friend in a matching t-shirt leaning in with a smile while holding the back of her heart.

Leaning in as a steady presence. No words needed.

My husband and I looked at one another and nodded as we both said the name of our friend who was struggling. We knew there was steady love, support, and professional help surrounding that precious one. Gratefully, we were free to walk and enjoy the beautiful day. The quiet gave way to soft conversation and laughter as people talked and groups intermingled. My husband began sharing memories of the years we spent playing at that park. He asked if I that’s where my mind was going as well.

“I’m having flashbacks.”

My memories were a bit different. As I walked, a slideshow rapidly processed 40 years of the devastating impact of depression, suicidal ideation, and loss of life. I watched every image. Remembering teens, young adults, and parents who felt such loss. So many emergency calls, hours at crisis screening, visits to the hospital, and safety plans enacted. Traditional and creative interventions to protect life. So many professionals, family, and friends who leaned in to support. And for those who were lost, images of funerals and anguish of those left behind. 

I walked in appreciation for every person who was able to move through their darkness. 

I felt overwhelming gratitude for the levels of support that arrived to wrap each one. I prayed with those souls who left, knowing they found their light. I marveled at the resilience of human beings to move through extraordinary challenge and rediscover a life worth living. I prayed for those colored t-shirts and sign carriers knowing that they weren’t alone. This brought hope as I know the power of healing when support and love wrap those hurting.

I felt a loosening of the pain in the group. It was lifting as everyone walked and talked together on this beautiful day.

We noticed a woman walking alone before us. Recognizing her as one of the volunteers, we decide to move up and walk with her. It didn’t make sense for anyone to walk alone, especially this day. We enjoyed an easy, inspiring conversation. Uplifting her, inspiring us. At the end of the walk, we thanked each other. It went without saying that we all felt lighter after our time together. 

We witnessed this beautiful young woman lead the closing ceremony, shared a hug, and headed home.

Recognizing it only takes one person, a teenager at that, to start a movement toward hope and the light. Grateful, inspired, and also aware that so many people are challenged by life.

It’s a human thing, not a mental health statistic.

What I know from 40 years of listening to people is that it makes a difference when someone leans toward you. Whether a stranger, a colleague, or a loving family member. It matters when you reach for each other. When things are hard, tell someone. If it’s not the right someone, because their response isn’t helpful, keep trying. 

Imagine a world where people were interested in one another. Where we mined for light within one another, not darkness.

There is power in positive conversation. When you shine a light on someone and seek to learn something about what brings them to life, that’s what happens. They come to life. Brightening before your eyes. So do you. Feel good chemicals firing all over the place.

There’s a mental health epidemic going on in this country, especially with the young folks.

This is a human problem, not one left to families and mental health professionals to solve. So, what are you doing about it? I’ll give you a hint. Seek what is interesting, life affirming, enjoyable, and hope giving to those around you. Perhaps you have to first seek it in yourself. Forget talking about the weather, whether your teens are doing their chores, or how work is going. Ask some beautiful questions about what people enjoy, share some stories about your favorite adventures, or seek an area of common interest. I imagine you’ll learn something new and interesting.

When you are interested in others and elevate your conversations, things lighten up naturally.

Imagine how many times a day you speak to someone. Adding a smile and a mini chat generates more light than a bland ‘how are you?’ that isn’t really looking for an answer. It might take some practice and a strong awareness, as we humans tend to slip into a self absorbed spaces while traveling through the day. Showing a little interest (not too much or it’s creepy) and kindness may have an impact you’ll never see. Especially as people are so good at putting a happy face on private pain.

There is plenty of good happening in the world. Go look for it and share it freely. You see that hope abounds in so many dark places.

All because normal people like you lean in, take an interest, and place a hand upon someone else’s heart. 

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

You aren’t alone even when you think you are. If your family, friends, or work colleagues aren’t available to help you for any reason, seek professional help. The crisis hotline can be reached by dialing 988. Every hospital emergency room is prepared to help when you feel suicidal. Mental health clinics are listed online. The Psychology Today website has a Find a Therapist page. If you need support, please seek it. You matter even when you don’t feel that way.

Posted on by

Savoring Stillness Practice

I pulled into a crowded Target parking lot on a windy, sunny afternoon.

I’ve been doing a bunch of errands and had plenty of direct experience with busy roadways, impatient drivers, and crowded parking lots. So many people rushing to enter stores already teeming with late day shoppers.

As I searched for a spot, the space around me felt congested and the pace frenetic as I heard parents calling to children to hurry.

It was getting close to dinner and I imagined most people were rushing to complete their chores so they could head home and eat. From the looks on the faces around me, not many people were enjoying their day. As I pulled into my parking space, I actually questioned if walking into Target with so many stressed out shoppers was such a bright idea.

I decided to engage the practice of Savoring Stillness before I even exited my car.

For the next few minutes, I would have the opportunity to settle into a gross and subtle exploration of stillness while nestled in my comfortable vehicle.

I left the engine running and turned off the radio. Eyes wide open, I began to notice the contrast. I was aware of sitting in one place rather than being in motion. It was comfortable to take my feet off of the pedals and to allow my hands to rest on my lap. I closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and savored the stillness after so much drive time.

The stillness moved through my body and psyche. A sense of relaxation deepened as tightness in my posture that I hadn’t noticed before gently let go with each exhale.

It was in the process of dropping more deeply into relaxed stillness that I noticed movement. My body shifting, moving about in my seat, and settling in with a sigh. My breath was moving me up and then down again in a slow, wavelike action. I felt the vibration of the running vehicle and heard the idling engine. I noticed that movement was present at a more subtle level of sensation throughout my body.

With that awareness, I turned off the car and encountered a new level of stillness.

The rumbling and vibrating gone, I tuned into the quiet even more fully. The time between my inhale and out breath lengthened as I entered a still and Sacred Pause without effort.

As I witnessed the subtle sensations occurring within my physical body, I became aware of occasional rocking on a grand scale as my car was buffeted by the wind.

Shifting my attention to the wind’s effect, I recognized that my cozy chamber of stillness was actually moving in an irregular rhythm. As I tuned in, I heard the music of the wind whistling around the car, lifting a plastic bag in the air, and slamming a car door closed.

I opened my eyes and saw the wind whipping through clothing and long hair, shopping bags, and trees.

Movement was apparent everywhere as the wind danced people and the surroundings.

I noticed I felt warm, relaxed, and comfortable as I observed the chilling, disruptive effect of the wind.

My gaze swept the congested parking lot, fast moving shoppers, and a riot of colorful cars. I closed my eyes and found the depth of stillness within. Eyes open and taking in my environment, my breath arose from this still space. I was ready.

Exiting the car, I continued to Savor Stillness as I moved through the wind, dodged shopping carts, and felt my hair whip around my face.

I appreciated the contrast of warm air in the Target store and the abundance of items that afforded me such a comfortable life. I recalled other shopping trips that contrasted sharply from this experience. These memories reinforced the benefit of this simple practice that took less than 4 minutes. In the store, I breathed and wandered and shopped and observed.

I was Movement arising from Stillness.

As the music caught my attention, I felt my breath pattern change to move in time to the rhythm. It was natural as if I knew how to breathe in perfect time with the song.

Life was dancing. Target was the ballroom. And I was finally still enough to enter the fun.

Please join me for the Inner Radiance Silent Retreat at Soul Sanctuary on October 26th, 9:30am – 4:30pm. I look forward to dropping deeply into silence and discovering the depths that stillness has to offer me. One day, a few hours of silence, and a great potential for restoration and self-discovery.

Give yourself permission to leave the world behind for 7 short, wondrous hours.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Sitting still, savoring silence, and breathing deeply. You don’t need research studies to extoll benefits such as strengthening the immune system, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, boosting overall sense of well being, and improving cardiovascular and metabolic health. However, there are plenty of studies that speak to the benefit of mindful stilling, breathing, slowing, and closing down the constant input of noise (radio, telephone, podcast, tik tok, yakking with others about nothing). Try Savoring Stillness and Entering Silence. Be your own researcher. A few minutes a day, just about anywhere is a good setting for a trial run.

Posted on by

Art of Becoming 6 Week Journey

The Art of Becoming 6 week Journey offers an invitation to step outside the boundaries of your life as you know it.  
.
To go on a pilgrimage to the unknown.  Within a circle of sisters. With direct contact with Elemental, Lineage, and Archetypal forces who guide with extreme love, clear guidance, and unerring support. Empowered by the sweet aloneness of your own being and the wisdom that awaits you there.  

Not all Journeys have clearly marked paths and signs.  

Not all adventures have an identified destination. Yet all Journeys include an Arrival.  They naturally point to the next space you are called to inhabit. As you call forth more of the Wise Woman within you, there will be discoveries. That is a hallmark of any Journey for life is full of discovery. 

You’ll use the Andean Medicine Wheel as a guide for your Journey.  

As you enter each direction, you have the opportunity to work with the structure of the wheel.  It’s a vehicle for transformation and a map which offers you a foundational path. Every direction and helper opens a doorway for you to explore in partnership with your own guiding light: the wisdom of your own Soul. 

As you enter each Direction, you learn how each instructs you in a new way of living. 

Working at the level of the body, mind/emotions, soul, and pure energy, you travel the wheel with a focus strongly upon your own life. While you are surrounded by your sisters on the journey, each of you walks independently so you may discover a new way of perception, action, and practice. 

This class is for women interested in walking a mythical path to receive the luminous seeds which, when nourished, allow you to grow a new Light Body and way of relating to life.

You'll awaken your inner skill as the Healer, Warrior, Sage, and Visionary.


The world needs more Wise Women placed in what may be called the ordinary, capable of the mystical. 



The Archetypal Guardians become your guides to this new way of becoming. With additional support from the Power Animals, Elemental Forces, and Lineage of Healers, you shed that which binds you within old stories, limits your perception, and blinds you to your true destiny. 



The Art of Becoming is a creative, mystical process.



There is a vital connection between creativity and mysticism.  Whether you are exploring the inner space, creating art, or inviting a more conscious living experience, you knowingly or unknowingly are entering the liminal space.  



This is the space of wild creativity.  Where the caterpillar dissolves into goo and emerges as a beautiful winged creature.



It allows for the essential transformation. The alchemical change from lead to gold.  From mundane to magical.  Yet all qualities for transformation are within – awaiting the conditions which will encourage growth.  



How to proceed, then, in this wildly creative process?  



When the habits of everyday living and the protective cement of the mind’s idea of self weigh you down into repeating the same approach over and over.  



Mystics and children know this answer. One rediscovered. One never lost.  


In order to awaken the inherent wisdom you held as a child and to reclaim your wild creativity, it is essential to make art.  Before you reach for your paint brush, take a Sacred Pause to consider that making art is larger than creating a painting, poem, delicious meal, beautiful song, or colorful garden.



It is a way of life known in this tradition as living the Beauty Way. 



Both a way of being and a daily practice, the Wise Woman moves through the Medicine Wheel open to learning how to incorporate the Beauty Way into every thought, word, and deed. Understanding that the development of her own Beautiful Soul offers healing to the world in her own unique way. 



Becoming is a creative process requiring the skills of the healer, warrior, sage, and visionary. 



Whether for an individual, community, planet, or cosmos, it is time to let loose that which is wanting to emerge.

The Munay Ki Rites are energetic initiations from the Andes which work directly on the luminous energy field in order to support this Journey of Becoming. 



Shifting you from your foundational energy structure and allowing the gifts within you to emerge in new and often surprising ways. 



A beautiful group of evolving wise women are journey around the Medicine Wheel together. We begin October 15th and meet 6 Tuesdays on ZOOM, 6:30 -9:30pm ET.

It no longer surprises me how much is offered within this sacred, intimate, and nurturing circle. I will be facilitating the Journey, yet there are many teachers including the Lineages and Archetypal Forces, as well as every Wise Woman participating in this Journey. 



Prepare to fall in love. It’s a natural result when you join with the Becoming of so many lovelies in one place.



It’s time to step onto this wheel of transformation. I hope you feel the call to emerge into the next level of your personal becoming.

Let your heart guide you. In this and in all things.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

The Japanese Society of Forest Medicine researches the therapeutic benefits of forests on human health and wellbeing. Forest bathing involves walking slowly, mindfully as you open the senses, notice your response, and enjoy the ecosystem. Statistics indicate that the average American spends 93 percent of the time indoors and about ten hours a day on social media. That can’t be good for your health. Forest bathing research revealed benefits such as strengthening the immune system, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, boosting overall sense of well being, and improving cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Posted on by

Wisdom from the Redwoods

I’m at home in the redwoods of California. My whole being knows this to be true.

Until 10 months ago, I was not aware that such a place existed for me. I knew the redwoods existed and had walked in Muir Woods as a teen with my family. Beyond that I gave no thought to those giant trees until I felt a call to walk those centuries old groves. When it evolved into a longing, I realized there was something waiting for me.

Our first adventure hiking amidst the redwoods and sequoias in the state and national parks was soul enriching.

Walking in silence through the groves was so deeply refreshing and perfect that I mourned leaving. All the way home and for days afterwards, I felt a deep loss. I had the idea that I wouldn’t return to these new found friends, or at least not for many years.

Last December my husband opened the invitation to travel. “What are we waiting for?” he asked.

I had no good answer to that question even though life was full of events, work, and people in need. When he asked where I wanted to go, my heart leapt. The redwoods beckoned and we booked our flight. It takes a lot of time to get to those trees. Flying across the country and driving 5 hours north of San Francisco. All to get to the little town of Orick, population 257, and my absolute favorite Prairie Creek State Park.

I could envision our little AirBnB. The picture windows overlooking the hummingbirds, fields of cattle, and the pacific ocean foaming as it kissed the sand.

Unexpectedly rerouted from a visit with dear friends, we found ourselves landing in Arcata for a few days. Offering the opportunity to explore Arcata Community Forest, Arcata Redwood Park, and the Arcata Bird Sanctuary along the coast. As our adventure began, I knew the routine. Relaxed mornings, a longer hike, home for lunch and perhaps a nap outside, a leisurely late afternoon hike, and a quiet evening.

I entered Arcata Community Forest as I do every forest, mountain, or body of water.

I offer gratitude to Pachamama for Her beauty and ask permission to enter. Here, I called upon the deva of the forest, that nature spirit that served the entirety of the ecosystem. And then I introduced ourselves. While that may sound silly, it’s a practice that allows for the respectful exchange of energy.

By stating our names out loud in greeting, I offered our energetic signature to nature and claimed our place within this living energy.

Walking slowly, letting my gaze travel upward, I began to speak silently with the trees. That’s another habit, sometimes silently and often aloud, I enter into conversation with the natural world.

I didn’t get very far into our little chat before I heard “Sssshhhh.”

Okay, that was unexpected and it shut me right up. I opened to listen and heard the trees tell me that my mind was too busy and my body too tense. That was true. I had been working every day, late into the night preparing for the Seeding the Light Gathering. I felt the tightness in my body from sitting at my desk, on the plane, and in the car for so many hours. In total agreement, I zipped my mental lips.

“How about you just hike.”

“Oh yes!” said every fiber of my being as my body and mind exhaled. It was as if these wise teachers offered me the ever present suggestion to “Let go and Just Be.” That day, every step, was a shedding. Without effort, while I soaked in the silent majesty, the stress that had taken up residence within my system released.

I eagerly entered a new trail on Day 2 and wondered what gifts were in store. 

As soon as that thought crossed my mind, I heard the trees whisper “Patience.”

I had to laugh. As if one day of shedding the busyness of my mind was sufficient. So, I brought my whole attention to the path. Again and again as my mind returned to planning and tasks. I realized that I could “just hike” every day and trust that the redwoods would drop their concise teaching into my lap.

Hiking through Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park on day 3, amidst a ton of tourists, I saw such beauty.

In the forests and the enjoyment of each human face turned upward. Within the streams, the sky, those trees. It touched me deeply, this beauty. Even the dust from the gravel which adorned the ferns lining the narrow road felt like a decoration.

At some point the lesson of that day formed into words.

“Nature adorns itself with beauty.”

Day 4 and I finally arrived at Prairie Creek. Deciding on a 6 mile hike, I felt downright giddy as I entered the familiar park.

No lie, it was a bit surprising to me that it felt like Christmas morning as a child. At some point that day, I heard a whisper “This is at-home-ment.” Yes, I knew that ‘being at home in the moment’ and I recognized that this place was that for me. That hike was delightful, especially as we left all the people behind.

It was just us amidst the beauty and stillness of the towering trees.

Unfortunately, we got lost on the loop. It’s a thing we do, getting lost on loops.

So, we ended up adding another few miles to our hike. My legs began to talk to me about strength and persistence, or maybe it was me talking to them. It began to blur until I heard the whisper of “Tenacity.” The fullness of that lesson unfolded in an instant. It’s a big one and, once received, I tapped into the energy of Pachamama and finished that hike happy and ready for lunch.

Day 5 brought a harder hike and the absence of trail signs.

High on the mountain, we laughed about a friend’s interest in Bigfoot sightings. I then startled at every rustle. We wondered if folks ended up sleeping in these woods when they couldn’t find their way out. I thought next time I’d bring more snacks and a whistle to call for assistance if needed. Most of the time, we didn’t speak as the silence was so intense that it seemed to have taken on material form.

“Silence and Trust.” Two lessons that day.

Eventually, many hours later, we arrived at the ranger station. Ready for that nap. Day 6 brought teachings about the experience of “Wonder.” And a reminder of “Strength” as hiking required more than my body was used to. I soon recognized, however, that my idea of my body’s ability was too limited, proven by what was accomplished without undue strain.

By Day 7, the lesson was “Ease” sprinkled with the constant reminder that “Life reveals Beauty.”

Driving south, we meandered through the Avenue of the Giants and stopped for one more tiny taste of these giants. Fallen trees, massive root systems, towering trees. We posed like others at the Founders Tree with its height of 346 feet and circumference of 40 feet. I witnessed awe and delight on every face I passed.

As I left, I shared my gratitude to these elders for their teachings. They whispered one more message to me. One that broke open my heart.

I realized in that moment that nature knows who we are and sees us clearly. And not just we as a human race, but me as a little personality. The wise ones had seen into my heart and reflected this back to me.

Being seen like that inspired me to live as one who loves purely, seeds beauty, gives generously, and honors all forms of life.

I’ll probably need many more hikes to truly live that aspiration. But, I know my teachers are waiting for my arrival, eager to whisper what I most need to learn.

Sssshhh, Let Go. Just Be. Patience. Nature adorns itself with Beauty. At-home-ment. Tenacity. Silence and Trust. Wonder. Strength. Ease. And the greatest of these was Love.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

The Japanese Society of Forest Medicine researches the therapeutic benefits of forests on human health and wellbeing. Forest bathing involves walking slowly, mindfully as you open the senses, notice your response, and enjoy the ecosystem. Statistics indicate that the average American spends 93 percent of the time indoors and about ten hours a day on social media. That can’t be good for your health. Forest bathing research revealed benefits such as strengthening the immune system, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, boosting overall sense of well being, and improving cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Posted on by

I Got My Wings

I got my wings today.

No bell chimed. No angelic harmony resounded. They were just handed to me.

An official metal pin from a national airline declared me “flight crew.” I flashed back to childhood when flying on TWA.

I recalled the thrill as my brother and I met the pilot in the cockpit and received our wings to wear during the flight.

This plastic trinket added a level of delight as we flew the friendly skies toward our next adventure. You can tell that story happened a long, long time ago as no one is getting in the cockpit these days.

As she handed me my wings, she said “You changed my life.”

Another story was pulled from the past as this lovely woman recounted an Angelic Healing Journey she had with me many years before. At that time, she was in a pickle. A serious one. The empowering words and images offered during that Angelic conversation revealed a fence on which she was sitting, and her power to move in one direction (up) or another (down). It offered her hope and a choice.

Apparently, as she reminded me, the Angels suggested the friendly skies were a part of that deal – strange as that was at the time.

It’s not my story to tell here.

I will mention that it involved tremendous courage, hardship, and adventure (not all of it soaring nor fun).

It isn’t every day that you learn the impact of something you offered to someone 10 years prior.

To be clear, I mean offered as the transmitter of the Angels’ messages embedded with their tremendous wisdom, love, compassion, and wit. Holding that pin, we spoke of her decision to follow the invitation to fly through her challenges to discover what was on the other side.

Years of hard work led to doors opening and life changing in ways that continue to amaze her.

Life showed her that there was more in store for her when she dared to get off that damn fence. How making one choice and taking small actions led to the next choice, the next actions, and the next open door.

We spoke about personal responsibility and the commitment to dare to live a life she dreamed about.

I witnessed someone who had given up her story of unworthiness and was deep in the process of claiming her preciousness.

We kept the conversation going.

Exploring how to keep expanding and prepare for the inevitable tough times life was sure to deliver. The adventure of living offers ongoing opportunities for transformation.

As any traveller knows, excitement and trepidation may accompany you on the journey.

Facing the next challenge, you have the option to back away, sit on the fence, or step on the path. All approaches are understandable, yet one choice ultimately allows you to fly more freely toward your destiny.

Did I mention that she became a flight attendant much to her surprise?
Those Angels, they know stuff.

Wings in hand, now part of the “flight crew,” I was reminded to seek the open skies in my life. To have the courage to look deeply within when challenged so I might understand the gift life is presenting. Then make that choice, take that action, and walk through that opening door.

I hope you know that new horizons exist beyond your current vision.

And that you have plenty of Angelic helpers to guide your steps along the unique path you are walking. Trusting that each step awakens greater courage and offers the excitement of the next new discovery awaiting you.

Claim your wings. You don’t need the pin to soar higher. After all, the sky’s the limit.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Got courage? Sure you do. Such as what researchers call “general courage” which includes those confident or bold moves we’d easily label as courageous. Personal courage doesn’t have to be dramatic and may only be viewed as such within the mind of the one who took the action or made the choice. Whether you display the quiet persistence to get out of bed when life is hard or act with integrity when faced with injustice, you cultivate courage one step at a time. 

Posted on by

Fall Events at Soul Sanctuary

September is upon us and around the world it is time to head back to school.

“Hooray!” shouts every college student and harried mother. Now that the adults are freer, let’s launch Soul Sanctuary’s Fall classes, workshops, and retreats! It’s short and sweet, this announcement. Scan the list to see what peaks your curiosity and check your calendars.

You know this is true: if you don’t put it in your calendar, it ain’t gonna happen.

There is too much potential to soothe your soul, up level your vibration, and dive deep within the healing potential of many different modalities to miss. If you’re longing to be with likeminded folks who are also intent on exploring a more expansive way of living, mark your calendars and register to join us at Soul Sanctuary or on ZOOM. Some events are for the ladies only and some for everyone.

Healing Relationships with your Karmic Angels and Mary Law on September 14th.

Just a hint about this potential. There are way more than Angels are showing up and every relationship across time is in for repair. One day with these powerful partners and practices and you will notice the difference. Follow it up with a healing session with Mary on Sunday, September 15th. She’s got a few modalities to offer and can be with you in person at Soul Sanctuary or on ZOOM. Best to book early for these sessions as Mary offers her magical touch to every encounter. Everyone welcome.

Chanting in the Light Cathedral at Soul Sanctuary invites the deep peace on Thursday, September 26th.

I can’t say enough about how absolutely transformative this devotional practice is for every person who attends. No matter how you walk in, you’ll walk out revitalized, at peace, and feeling the love. Happens every time. More magic. Everyone welcome.

Ladies, the Sacred Immersion Retreat at Cranaleith Spiritual Center is only one month away.

I’ll admit, this is my favorite experience of the year. It is a profound, life changing four days and I don’t say that lightly. I’ve been facilitating these retreats since 2010 and I’ve watched lives change in front of my eyes and over the months following our retreat. If you have any desire to attend (and transform), please head to the Sacred Immersion Retreat page for all the details.

If you’re on the fence, please email me to see what’s right for you. Ladies only.

Unless you are actively engaged in the process of transformation, you’re likely living the same old life. I wonder, is that enough for you?

The next Art of Becoming 6 week Journey for the Evolving Wise Woman begins Tuesday, October 15th and travels through November 19th on ZOOM.

You enter this Journey exactly where you are in the moment. Working within the Andean Medicine Wheel with the powers of Lineages, Archetypal Guardians, and Nature Spirits, you travel. It’s your own Journey, but you’ll be in great company in this committed group of ladies (yup, women only). I’ll be introducing new shamanic practices and journeys so you deepen relationships across all dimensions of your being. You’ll discover how to live more in alignment with your inner power and in service to this beautiful world. More than that will arise, but let’s leave that to The Great Mystery for now.

Silence offers a Golden Opportunity for more reflection upon your beautiful essence. The Inner Radiance Silent Retreat at Soul Sanctuary is Saturday, October 26th.

We’ve witnessed such freedom after a single day designed to help you gently enter silence, discover so much wisdom while cleaning out the muck, and exiting with grace into the shared celebration of kinship. If you’re at all interested, and especially if you are hesitant, give yourself this gift. Only in person at Soul Sanctuary. Everyone is welcome.

Heave ho that Karmic Wounding with InnerSpeak Level 1 Training with Jean Adrienne on November 16th and 17th at Soul Sanctuary AND on ZOOM.

I’ve known Jean for many years and have turned to InnerSpeak often. Especially when life seems to be throwing a lot at me at once. In partnership with the Angels, Jean created InnerSpeak over 20 years ago. She has traveled around the world teaching practitioners and now is landing in Moorestown, New Jersey. We’ll add the ZOOM room to the mix so wherever you may be, you can learn this method for yourself and your clients.

Jean will be offering private InnerSpeak sessions on Friday, November 15th live at Soul Sanctuary.

Please register for these early to ensure your space. And do bring every issue you have. That’s the beauty of InnerSpeak. It’s a quantum healing method so it may address all that is arising for you in the moment.

I might add another evening workshop later in the Fall as something is whispering in my ear.

Let’s wait until I’ve go the full okay before I announce that. For now, I wish you a very happy September and hope you enjoy the gently shifting of the seasons and the powerful movement of the heavens.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

You know change is challenging. Yet, staying the same brings even greater challenge.  Making a decision to commit yourself to growth begins to call those opportunities to you. A person arrives who inspires you or a shares an idea that sparks your creativity. The heart knows when you are stagnant and need to move into a new way of being. The signs are familiar as you feel unsettled, bored, unhappy, or losing interest in your current activities. Trusting your Soul to bring the next invitation for growth and trusting your heart to know it is true is natural to the process of evolution. Put aside the books and people who are telling you how to grow. Listen to your Soul and your Heart. They know the way for you.

Posted on by

Living with Shamans. A Lesson in Love

My husband and I drove separately to the Philadelphia airport in the pouring rain to pick up our guests from Peru.

Not knowing what to expect, I felt an open anticipation. A few conversations had led to this moment. It struck me that these men were traveling far from home to meet a woman they didn’t know, live in an unfamiliar home, and spend an immersive week in service. I considered how much trust they had in Spirit and commitment to the path of the paqo (shaman) to say ‘yes’ to this call to Seed the Light in New Jersey. To show up within the unknown and share their wisdom, love, and healing energy.

I recognized this familiar ‘yes.’ It had led me to this highway and with that awareness, all that was unsettled within me washed away.

In that moment, I knew I’d spend the week being instructed how to live in beauty, trust, and love.

We met these beautiful, tired men with warmth and received the same. Connected, yet strangers, we gathered luggage and headed home. As Pascual played the flute in the backseat, we drove slowly through the torrential downpour. The rain offering cleansing for the Philadelphia area as the healing of the Earth, Pachamama, and all Her creatures began.

Once settled, we called our friends to lunch. They showed up with gifts.

This is the way of living in Ayni (eye-knee), the Peruvian cultural and spiritual practice of living in right relationship with Pachamama and each other. In gratitude for our caretaking, we were wrapped with bracelets and draped in shawls made by their families. Giving and receiving. Receiving and giving. After lunch, Chino did the dishes while others played flutes and rattled, cleaning and blessing the space.

Centered in our intent to care for the paqos, my husband and I consciously opened to make space to receive every blessing and gift offered.

As the days unfolded, we entered a joyful rhythm of relaxed friendship, laughter, give and take, shared meals, and quiet time on the deck. Eager to work, the paqos headed to Soul Sanctuary or our Weekend Gathering with enthusiasm. After long days and nights, they laughed and joked in the backseat on the way home. Their camaraderie and genuine enjoyment of their time together was obvious.

When I showed Francisco my “magic closet” filled with overflowing bookshelves, binders housing my creations, and mini altars, he offered to bless it.

Returning with his bells, he blessed my closet and all the wisdom within. He blessed the altars in my office. I was ready to offer my gratitude, but he quickly moved on. Generously blessing the plants and crystals in the bathroom, cleaning the energy within our clothes closet, and moving on to the bedroom and altars within. I trailed Francisco as he blessed our space and then looked to me with a question, “okay?” Okay indeed, papa, as we shared a hug.

Morning, evening, and throughout the day, I felt the delight of every greeting. I witnessed how the paqos greeted us and each other in genuine friendship and loving attention.

How different this was from the rote greeting often observed in daily living. That ‘how are you?’ without much attention to the answer.

With every meeting, something lit up in the face as the handshake or hug was offered

I felt the underlying message. ‘I see you. I welcome you. I enjoy you. I respect you.’

This wasn’t only offered to people.

It was apparent in how the paqos greeted each day with reverence , enjoyed the busy birds in the backyard, and felt nourished by the greenery of the neighborhoods. Pascual and I walked along my gardens and down the street to the pond. Curious about what was naturally growing and if fish were present, he greeted the plants and the waters with “Munay Sunqo!”

This “love from my heart” greeting was often heard and sent off in all directions to all aspects of nature, including the beautiful participants in the Gathering.

As the days unfolded, in the midst of a busy schedule with many moving parts, I became still inside.

I began receiving lessons directly from the wisdom of Life Itself. The kind of teaching that quietly states, “This is how you live. This is how you love, relate, work, play, and grow.” I felt generosity move through my being in a constant flow with so many different forms of expression. Laughter bubbled up frequently without cause and tenderness claimed my heart as its home.

Witnessing the preciousness of each participant as they received a blessing or initiation threatened to dissolve me.

My eyes soft, my inbreath deep, I felt Life Itself delight in the scene before me. Like a proud Mama watching Her children enter an exchange with such sweetness and open hearts. Pachamama breathed deeply and exhaled long and slow Her acknowledgment that healing was happening and magic was returning to the world.

Something profound was seeded during these interactions, welcomed in the belly with the promise of nourishment, safety, and love.

The Seeding the Light Gathering, every part and each location, offered an alchemical crucible for a shifting of such magnitude that I was surprised the weather remained calm. The subtle movement of thunder and lightning was present in the invisible power of every ceremony, yet poured into each person like a gentle mist.

At some point, I became conscious that the desire to serve inhabited my whole being.

It was easy. No thought required, no idea of how or why, just an abiding love that wished to move in service to Life. No instruction, preparation, or even intent was required in this natural tendency.

Just the awareness that Life serves Life in all of its myriad forms. And that strangers becoming family is the natural order of things.

When the Gathering was complete, we rested, enjoyed some shopping and a taste of Philly cheesesteaks. Arriving at the airport, I moved to retrieve their bags from the hatchback. I was stopped as Francisco and Pascual adorned me with bracelets and a headband. I don’t know why I was still surprised at their grateful exchange for the ride to the airport. Receiving graciously, giving generously. Ayni in constant practice is the way for those in tune with the overflowing abundance of life.

Arriving home, my husband and I compared notes. 8 days of living in love and we were shifted.

There was no end to the gratitude we shared. With a full heart, a tired body, and many seeds of light, I settled onto my back deck. I thought to offer Munay Sunqo and Muchas Gracias to Pachamama, the beneficence of Life, our beautiful teachers, and every participant who called forth this shared experience.

Since no words were needed, Life rested as I promptly took a nap.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

The Andean Wisdom Path invites a commitment to live the Beauty Way. As a practice, you make a daily commitment to take action to bring beauty to every situation you are in. Moment by moment you have the opportunity to notice how beauty emerges through you. As well as every space within you that withholds or denies beauty within yourself, another, or life. This is a practice of perpetual correction. A graceful bowing to the true harmony as you clean up each perception. Living in Beauty aligns you with the principle of cosmic harmony. Let’s create beauty together.

Posted on by

Lessons from a Tadpole

As a child, I was fascinated by tadpoles. And I wasn’t alone.

Freely roaming the neighborhood during summer months, we kids would gather in my neighbor’s frog enclosure to search for new life. When tadpoles first appeared in the manmade pond, we peered into the murky water.

Like curious child scientists, we observed the natural evolutionary process of this ancient species.

Between neighborhood games of sheep and wolf, picking berries from the garden, and sleeping under the stars, we tracked the tadpoles’ progress. Spending quality time on our bellies became an integral part of our playtime.

We were delighted by the alchemical process when tiny legs appeared.

As small arms grew and tails shortened, we knew to check the surrounding banks to ensure gradual slopes of dirt and rocks for the froglets to make their way onto land.

Beyond observerIng, we became participants in creating an environment to support progress.

The froglets had to navigate their way out of water in order to live and breathe on land. The water, which sourced early development, became deadly if they were unable to make the transition.

This unfolding mystery trained us as naturalists and strengthened our connection to the rhythms of nature.

Our experiential learning required no adult supervision, textbooks, or standardized testing.

Just the presence of enthusiastic playmates with curious minds and a sense of wonder for a complex ecosystem resulting from millions of years of evolution.

Looking back upon my tadpole research, I recognize the valuable modeling of how to live in an ever changing world.

Complex personal, societal, and global challenges requires us, like the tadpole, to grow legs, learn to breathe through change, climb out of our comfort zone, and skillfully navigate new terrain. The combination of outer turmoil and inner evolutionary pulsing invites the potential to adapt skillfully. As adults, we rely upon learned experience, cognitive problem solving, and well honed defense mechanisms to move through adversity.

Yet, the inner curious child scientist suggests a different approach.

Letting go the mind, we might breathe deeply, drop into (onto) our belly, and reconnect with the rhythm of our essential nature. Relaxed and open, we’re free to gaze into the murky situation. Seeking subtle clues which offer a broader understanding of the potential for transformation. From this vantage point, we may recognize that we are swimming in the evolutionary stream of life.

What began millions of years ago is unfolding through us, inviting the next phase of becoming.

What was once perceived as a problem may be welcomed as a necessary phase of our own evolution. Broadening our vision, we recognize that so many others, seen and unseen, have prepared the environment for our growth and cleared the way for our move into new territory.

Welcoming support makes sense as no one travels alone on the journey of life.

Swim. Climb. Leap.

My love affair with tadpoles taught me how every phase of development has value. That it is important to look beneath the surface, engage a sense of childlike wonder, and enlist playmates to make life’s journey more enjoyable.

This story also appears in Natural Awakenings Magazine, South Jersey and Philadelphia additions.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Researchers suggest that early childhood years are fundamental in developing positive environmental attitudes and a commitment to caring for the Earth. With time playing in parks, forests, and playgrounds, children have the opportunity to reduce stress, engage in creative play, and explore the natural world. Research has found physical and psychological benefits including increased cooperation, verbal expression, and social comfort entering play with other.

Posted on by

Peruvian Harmony. Seeding the Earthkeeper.

Meet Juanita and Francisco, shamans from Peru.

This beautiful couple waves from a hill above the only moon temple in Peru. Known as Killarumiyok, the moon dial served many generations with tracking the movement of the stars, seasons, and energies. The shamans had a full morning traveling with our group by bus to this site in the Sacred Valley, hiking the mountain, and setting up the ceremony for our arrival.

That was a day of powerful teaching for me as the Feminine opened my heart and held my hand on the climb.

We began by creating a Pachamama stick before we hiked. In conversation with the flowers and plants, we chose the blossoms that called us and, with permission from nature, we wrapped these offerings around a stick. Told that we would encounter a rock split in the center, representing the vagina or birth canal, we prepared an offering. 

Each step, I prepared myself and my small Pachamama stick as an offering.

I felt something profound on the horizon, something which had no words. I was hiking amidst a group of lovely people, yet I felt as if I was alone on my own journey. My steps were easy and my breath was full. This was a place familiar to me where I climbed last year. I headed for a place of power that I laid upon and called to the Grandmothers to offer me wisdom and healing.

Truth be told, things got a bit hazy at that point.

Whatever occurred is beyond my mind at present, so I‘ll move along to arriving at the rock with a huge crack. Flowers spilled out and prayers lit up the area. Walking through the wet, mushy grass, I went around the back to share my intention.

A woman was healing something with her head upon that rock and her sobs wracking her body.

I felt called to stand in stillness, a quiet witness. And then it was time to move. I gathered her in my arms and helped her soothe as she returned her awareness to the moment. I offered my hand to her, shaky as she was, to climb the steep hill. 

And then I lost my breath. 

As if the altitude had changed drastically, I had to pause frequently to catch my breath as we climbed hand in hand. Now she was still, waiting for me. Our roles had reversed.

I learned on that climb that we are never alone and help is given or received when needed.

I entered the ceremony which would include another Munay Ki Rite, that of the Earthkeeper. 

I brought my whole being to that circle and my Soul said yes to whatever light would be offered. The mountains were active, offering their wisdom, and the shamans were prepared to transmit the seeds of this initiation. Something happened then that shifted my whole being to a new reality. Suddenly, I knew anything was possible and I was open to it. 

I received my seeds of light from Pascual with so much joy and enthusiasm.

And then I went still, as did the mountains and the land. My eyes travelled upward and tracked the eagle which arrived to circle our group. Blessing our ceremony. Traveling down the mountain was easy. We stopped to chant together at the moon calendar, located next to my favorite dreaming rock.

Feeling complete, I looked up to see Francisco and Juanita smiling down upon us.

When I raised my camera with a question, they stood and smiled. It was a lovely moment and a heartfelt connection. Little did I know I would be welcoming Francisco into my home a few months later.

He arrives, without Juanita, but traveling with Pascual, Chino, and Jose Tomas in just a few days. 

So many of us are joining together to receive the Seeds of Light offered through the Munay Ki Rites and the sacred ceremony these shamans will share with us. This is a dream received high in the Temple of the Sun in Ollantaytambo following a beautiful exchange with the mountains. It was seeded, nourished, and brought to form rather rapidly. For this, I am grateful, yet after that powerful experience with the Earthkeeper‘s Rite, I am not surprised.

For those who are joining in The Seeding of the Light Gathering, you are in for a beautiful experience. If you feel called to come, even on short notice, you are welcome. There are 10 spots remaining. All details are on the Event Page here. 

I have a few openings for private healing sessions with the shamans at Soul Sanctuary. 

If you are local and wish to receive a traditional Andean healing session with a shaman, you may find the booking link here.

This Seeding the Light Gathering is created with the intention of bringing more Light to the planet through the Munay Ki transmissions. With the infusion of these seeds of light, the energy of your multidimensional body is elevated and life unfolds differently. All who participate will then share this new light in their own unique fashion with the world. 

We are gathering to Seed the Light for your benefit. To bless your families, communities, work, home, and health with love, abundance, and vitality. Each ceremony honors our connection to Pachamama, to the Cosmic Light, and to all our relations.

May you feel the Munay Ki, the power of love, wherever you are this weekend.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Fair trade products from Peru are available via many resources. When I first learned that quinoa, a staple for the Peruvian diet, was becoming too expensive for locals due to the high demand of overseas consumption, I was dismayed. That led me to research how to purchase not only quinoa but all Peruvian products from Fair Trade certified suppliers. This certification, across all countries, meets rigorous economic, social, and environmental standards. Do your research so those producing the product benefit. This honors Ayni (reciprocity) which is an embedded social and spiritual aspect of Peruvian culture.