Category: Blog-Soulful Living

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Blooming Onion. Blossoming Gratitude.

I’m finally completing my holiday thank you notes. Just two left. First off, thanks to everyone who donated toys, gifts, and moolah to the SisterHood Gift drive!

Turns out, with the exception of 20 teens, it was all us. It was a funny year. The highlight is that 275 kids received a bunch of new toys, gifts, and clothes on Christmas morning. Thanks to all of you who gave from your heart. You’re anonymous and so am I as those toys were compliments of the man in red or their parents. I don’t know the details of how each family managed their gift bags as it’s not my business. Those parents can make their own parenting decisions for their kids. Especially on Christmas morning. 

Once again, I remembered a few things during this holiday gift drive. Here are 3 lessons I seem to forget every year after all those bags of toys head out in the U-Haul Sleigh.

First, it’s totally worth it. Second, it’s a hell of a lot of work and I need more people to join in the feel good fun of donating. Third, I’m starting in July next year.

Seriously. In July. I forget every year that it is such a big project which grows as other donors drop out. So, I’m switching strategies. I’m personally shopping once a month for our family’s toy donations. That way I won’t add to my holiday shopping and spending at a time that is already full in both regards. Feel free to adopt this strategy for your own. I’ll be happy to accept your toys all year long as I’ll be building a toy store in my basement.

I’m also having a Soul Sanctuary holiday gift collection in July. Look for it if you want a little ho ho ho in the middle of summer.

Speaking of thank you notes, I owe someone a note of gratitude for their gift.

It’s just that I don’t know who my Secret Santa was this year. 

Let me back track a bit. My kid was flying in for the holidays. Great news.

She started sending packages to our house addressed to her. With a frequent reminder to put them in her closet without opening them upon arrival. No peeking. The repeated instruction wasn’t for me. I never peek. My husband, on the other hand, can be oblivious to repeated instructions.

Like the morning I found him blissfully using his new pet hair rake to clean up after Milo’s morning lay about on the carpet. 

Yeah, it’s a thing. And someone is “raking in the dough” with that idea. Go figure. Needless to say, the infraction of opening a Christmas gift early led to immediate termination as head elf. I was hired on the spot to sort through boxes arriving on our doorstep. I diligently added to her secret stash with narry a peek at what was already closeted away. 

Amidst the flurry of my daughter’s arrival, she disappeared to wrap gifts. (Yes, just as it was time to do the dishes. Some things never change). 

While we chatted in the kitchen, there arose such a clatter. “Who ordered an onion?!” 

She arrived in hysterics while showcasing a golden onion with green shoots tilting madly to one side. Okay, to be fair, I never portrayed my kid as a genius. And I’m notoriously lacking in the green thumb department. So, perhaps it was a bit of a parental failure (mine) that she mistook an amaryllis for an onion. 

In one hand she held the ‘onion’ as her boyfriend trailed behind holding a little square box addressed to moi (another elf sorting error). 

After everything calmed down and the proper apologies were made to the neglected plant, we noticed that even with mistreatment, life found a way to grow. Eventually, with a bit of space and letting it be, the stalks grew straight and flowered. In fact, there’s one flower left. Once that’s gone, I’ll watch a YouTube video to learn what to do next. But, I don’t want to get ahead of myself. 

I do want to thank whomever sent that lovely blooming onion to me. 

It filled our home with laughter and warmed our hearts knowing someone cared enough to send it our way. So, whoever you are, thank you. 

This seems like a silly story to tell in the midst of the polarization in our country, the fires in the West, and the snows in the South. Yet, I think it’s important to realize that we’re like that blooming onion flower which grows even when stuck in a tiny box. And thrives when the box is removed. 

Take care of yourself. Be kind and nurture one another. Tend to the environments in which you live, work, and share with all living creatures. Love the Mother anyway you can. Seems She really needs extra attention.

It’s a time to ask how you may help things grow rather than focus upon the distortion.

Forget the boxes you’ve put yourself and others in as everyone bends this way and that.

Be grateful for everything you have, who you are, and how you can contribute to improving life on the planet. 

Quit the mud slinging and seek support if you’re cowering in fear. Remember to begin again with a deep breath and a desire to be a good human who abides by your own highest ideals. If I may be of help, please feel free to reach out.

Let’s grow together. Not apart. 

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

The Power of Bridging by John Powell may be the book you need to read right now. While it may not look like it, a survey shows that 93% of people in the US want to reduce divisiveness. While many believe it’s possible to disagree, it’s hard to know how to move past our differences. Powell identifies four important terms key to understand how to move in the direction of a world where we honor differences, feel a connection to our human family (and ourselves), and disrupt the disempowering view of “other.” Bridging. Belonging. Othering. Breaking.
It is possible. Shall we begin now?

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Visioning Surprise. Closets, Dogs, & Body Code

New Year’s Day arrived and I was snuggled by the Christmas tree for a day of visioning.

I’d booked myself a free day with my magic journal, colored pens, and LifeBook. The day began as planned. In delicious silence, I savored the beauty, comfort, and warmth all around me.

I sank into gratitude as my mind, body, energy, and emotions aligned with all that was positive and possible.

Choosing the first area of my LifeBook, Health and Fitness, I explored what was not working for me. I saw what needed a total overhaul and what required gentle tweaking. I explored the beliefs that held the old, stale behavior in place, as well as those necessary to install a better mindset and actions to support new dreams. I updated that chapter in my LifeBook and felt deeply into what was possible. It felt pretty doable.

One chapter down, many to go, when I notice my dog was having trouble moving around.

Milo gave me that sad look reserved for communicating something was wrong. His legs, weak from arthritis and a previous broken foot, weren’t working so well. It seemed widespread, this weakness, and challenging to discern a definite cause.

Leaving my creative nest, I spent time with Milo on the floor and watched him struggle to move.

The crowded vet ER on New Year’s Day sounded like a less than stellar way to begin the year. I was grateful that Milo responded well to the Body Code, an energy medicine modality, that I’d used to help him heal and stay healthy throughout his 13 years.

After his Body Code session, a treat, and a dose of doggie ibuprofen, Milo seemed more at ease.

Allowing me to return to my creative nest. The house was quiet and chapter 2 was waiting. Settling in once again, I couldn’t concentrate for the voice in my head issuing an invitation I’d been receiving for days.

“Clean your closet.”

I tuned out that unwanted message as I had planned this ritual of launching new dreams on the first day of the year. And I was determined to hold onto my scheduled creative dreaming session.

As if creative dreaming ever followed the schedule of the mind.

Listening again, I heard only one message. “Clean your closet.” I may have muttered a bit as I climbed the steps, armed with trash bags for what I knew would be a big donation pile. I spent the next 4 hours in that closet, weeding meticulously.

Simplicity was needed. Clarity was required.

Apparently, I needed a more dramatic overhaul in this category. Working at the materially level, I released all clothing that no longer fit my body or lifestyle. As the pile grew, gratitude returned as I imagined the SisterHood ladies updating their wardrobes for school and work.

I lost a lot of weight that afternoon.

Becoming lighter, I ventured into other closets. I enticed my husband to go through his clothing. I reached my daughter and sent photos of what was still in her drawers. So much was released.

I felt lighter all over. Ready for a jaunt to Mexico with my husband’s company.

Then Milo worsened. All legs weak. Big sad eyes. Worried parents.

So, we let go the trip. Cleared our schedule and sat for hours in the parking lot of the animal hospital. It was a still, comfortable time. We watched the sky and animals on the farm while Milo snored quietly.

My husband and I explored things we were ready to let go, lessons we learned during the year, and new dreams for each of us and our family.

Seems like Life planted us in the middle of a creative dreaming space together. In a way that neither of us would have planned or wanted. Yet, as it arrived and the following days unfolded, things began to shift.

The surprising openings, changed minds, new behaviors, and emerging possibilities arrived gently and with ease.

Even after putting my magic book and pens away, every area of that LifeBook was impacted. As if new software was downloaded and an instructional manual opened one step at a time.

I can’t see that book. I can’t see the next step. I’m asked again and again to surrender and trust.  

Sometimes, I do. Often, I catch myself reverting to old programming.

Yet, when I miss the cue or forge forward with plans that don’t work, I’m not as bothered as I was before I cleaned that closet. Or gave up that trip. It’s early into this newness. The creativity seems to dance in a nonlinear way through my day and I’m doing best to follow rather than lead.

Milo has had a lot of Body Code sessions. And he’s not the only one.

As it turns out, perhaps not such a coincidence, I offered a lot of Body Code sessions with clients this past week. Lots of energy medicine sessions. More Body Code, shamanic sessions, and Angelic healing sessions scheduled this month. Perhaps this cleaning out the old goes deeper than our closets.

Moving with this rhythm, I’m offering 2 Body Code sessions on ZOOM and a remote Emotion Code session for the vastly discounted price of $225.

This is a chance to receive 3 sessions with a savings of $212. This offer is good for 5 days only and sessions must be scheduled by 3/31/25. All 3 sessions are for the same person, excluding current clients, so we can do some quality clearing.

The Body Code and the Emotion Code, developed by Bradley Nelson, DC, provides a map as we work with your inner wisdom.

Working on all levels (physical, emotional, mental, energetic, and relational), your inner wisdom guides the clearing and rebalancing of the factors which underlie and contribute to current symptoms and issues which interfere with your wellbeing. Once cleared or rebalanced, you move on with a body – energy system that communicates more clearly and supports open hearted living.

The Body Code and Emotion Code session special ends 1/17/25.

Milo gets the family discount and plenty of loving. We’ve all adapted to a quieter lifestyle, no stairs, and plenty of Body Code to augment his healing.

I hope you make space for creativity this year. And let Life surprise and support you. Perhaps, as you clean your proverbial closets, you’ll come to trust Life unequivocally. I hope to meet you there.

 

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Research has shown that cultivating positive beliefs contributes to prosocial behavior. You know that ‘feel good’ way of being kind, understanding, and compassionate toward your fellow humans. All of whom have an underground of conditioned beliefs. It also has been found to improve social connections. Committing to a positive mindset takes some work but it impacts your relationships, health, work success. Choosing and reinforcing positive beliefs supports wellbeing, resilience, and your potential to actually enjoy your life.

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If the Sky’s Not the Limit, What Is?

The other day I was stuck in a reoccurring pattern. It wasn’t my favorite.

So I spent some time in my “underworld” to discover what belief was active and how it was playing out. I looked to see where it began, how it appeared over the years, and how it served me. I saw the protective intent in its formation and the limiting hold it had over me at present.

By the time I was done looking, I felt kind of muddy and tired.

Like I had grappled with a sea monster who lived hidden beneath the waters. Before I moved on, I identified a belief that would better serve my life. I planted that firmly in my mind and looked to see where it was already true. When that sneaky monster of a bad idea next swam to the surface, I turned away, no longer willing to reinforce its hold on my reality.

This practice of exploring murky spaces within isn’t a lot of fun. 

It can be sobering, disheartening, and, at times, downright frightening. Yet, you can’t expect to enter a new year and create new dreams if you’re living an old, disempowering script.

Know this, you’re a magnificent story teller.

Since you’ve been young, you’ve been creating stories about yourself, how the world works, and what is possible. The plot lines were borrowed or absorbed from the larger story tellers in your life. Parents, teachers, friends, and societal instructors. All ideas tunneling into your little mind to plant those belief seeds, many of which are holding you back today.

All humans borrow stories from one another.

Often installed at a young age, they vary according to the unique path of human experience. The helpful stories invite self-acceptance, wellbeing and life satisfaction. The disempowering stories disrupt a sense of worth, innate goodness, and potential for growth. When those scary tales whisper that you can’t be happy, healthy, wealthy, creative, and meaningfully connected to others, they point you toward a path of suffering.

All because you think the story is true.

It’s vital to remember that you did nothing wrong in creating these influential beliefs.  

They’re simply the result of growing up human.

Today’s limiting belief made sense to your child mind and often served as protection or helped you navigate challenging circumstances.

When you cultivate an unwavering commitment to explore the beliefs you hold, they arise from their hidden depths.

Thus, making it easier to recognize what belief is running your daily existence. Start by asking yourself what story you’re telling yourself about a current struggle. Then seek the belief is hidden within that tale.

“I can’t do this or deal with this because …

I’m not worthy of happiness or not smart enough to succeed. I’m lacking time, money, experience. I’m too old, young, weak, or alone. Happiness isn’t possible for me. I have to suffer. The world is dangerous. I need rescue. I don’t have what it takes to succeed.” You get the picture.

Find the belief that fuels the disempowering story.

Limiting beliefs aren’t true, yet they may look like that in the present moment. If you want to be free, look for evidence of falseness. Look at the time, money, and experience you do have. Recall moments of happiness, positive social relationships, or the skills you’ve developed. When you notice the small pleasures, gains, and connections, you loosen the hold of that old rule.

A new year naturally invites you to choose new plot lines. Good thing you’re a brilliant story teller.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Research has shown that cultivating positive beliefs contributes to prosocial behavior. You know that ‘feel good’ way of being kind, understanding, and compassionate toward your fellow humans. All of whom have an underground of conditioned beliefs. It also has been found to improve social connections. Committing to a positive mindset takes some work but it impacts your relationships, health, work success. Choosing and reinforcing positive beliefs supports wellbeing, resilience, and your potential to actually enjoy your life.

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5 Tips for a Smooth Holiday

What kind of holiday elf are you?

Are your buttons polished, your toys built, and your cookies baked?

Or are you running around with your tinsel on fire? I saw one of those elves recently. She almost took me out in the Target parking lot as her SUV careened madly around a corner. I understand. There’s a lot to do these days to get ready for Hanukah, Christmas, and Kwanza.

Whether you are hosting or ghosting those you love, take a moment to consider these 5 Tips for a Smooth Holiday.

Slow down

Unless the tree is on fire, slow the heck down. There is no award for rushing. All it brings is frayed nerves reflecting a disorganized nervous system. Take a moment to stand or sit still. Enjoy a deep breath or ten. Long exhales. When your body is calm, start moving again. Very slowly.

Simplify

The greatest gift of the holiday season is to enjoy yourself and those you’re hanging out with. You don’t need as much as you think you do. Nor do they. While you’re slowing down, take a few moments to look at your gift lists, decorating plan, menus, and schedule. A few minutes of organization helps you see clearly. Now cut a few things out. Make sure sleep isn’t on that list. It’s a good idea to be well rested before you start holiday mingling.

Stop

What to stop? So many options. Stop spending so much, running around, adding events to your schedule. Quit eating that batch of cookie dough or scrolling every moment through staged social media. Whatever it is, you know you are overextended.

Slowing down and simplifying are the precursors to the “stop.”

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you just sat down and relaxed? Imagine that. Slowing down, simplifying, and actually stopping your particular version of busyness.

Could the holidays arrive even if you didn’t do everything on your list?

The holiday season is filled with light, love, and generosity. It is meant to be savored. 

Sacred

Whatever your system of meaning, you’re invited to drop into the holy moments. Entering every gathering and quiet reflection with conscious intent. Claiming the opportunity to celebrate until you are love soaked and light filled. Imagine radiating the generous energy of love to everyone you meet. Everyone would benefit, especially the beleaguered check out clerk and your grumpy Aunt Nancy.

Santa

I know not everyone believes in Santa (gasp!) nor celebrates this mythic archetype hijacked by society’s materialism. Regardless of where you are now, I encourage you to seek the magic and delight of this character. It’s a shared delusion that offers adults the playful opportunity to join children in believing in the unseen.

It’s fun. Until it isn’t. We were sharing stories about Christmas at Thanksgiving dinner this year.

“Christmas was more fun before Santa died.”

My offspring has a point, even if expressed in youthful bluntness. Her age cohorts around the table nodded sagely as if it were a great truth. 

Reflecting on her younger years, we realized that we had a lot of fun with Santa. Even the year we knew she knew. I still remember tucking her in one cold night in December. She looked up at me and asked, “Mom, are you Santa?” I had done my best to be truthful, treat my kid with respect at every age, and offer sage wisdom during those developmental transitions. It took me a hot minute to gather my response as we stared at one another. 

“Do you really want me to answer that question?”

She smiled and shook her head, “No.” Crisis averted, I kissed her goodnight. When I reached the kitchen, I did a silent jig. We were in the clear for one more magical year. Next December, we all happily played the Santa game. I do recall seeing a twinkle in her eye on Christmas morning. She knew she was playing and she was having fun. So were we.

I’m still the only one in the family who gets excited when NORAD announces “Santa was spotted flying over Zimbabwe!”

“He’s in Zimbabwe!”, I squeal. They tolerate me which is a new version of the game of magic, delight, and absolutely true and generous love.

I hope you can enter the magic during your holiday celebrations.

The world can always use more people who are happily and consciously sharing the joy of being together. One big messed up, beautiful human family celebrating all sorts of traditions. And embracing those who are struggling too much to even notice what’s good.

Sometimes hum bugging isn’t all it seems.

The Sacred Season of Light holds everything. Every joy and delight. Every tragedy and horror. Every delusional idea and each clear thought. When we are still enough, slow enough, and silent enough, we notice it all.

Life always shows us how to be a gift to each other in every moment.

Pay attention. Love generously. Receive graciously. Not because Cookie the Elf is watching or Santa is checking his nice and naughty list. Savor each moment because it is a wonder to be alive.

Slow your roll. Simplify your days. Stop the nonsense. Savor the Sacred. Embody the wonder of Santa.

I wish you peace. I hope you know you are loved or just choose to love yourself. I invite you to give a bit more of your self to others. They’re waiting for you. And, open your eyes so you play the magical, sacred game with joy.

I’m with you.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Rushing about like an elf with your tinsel on fire doesn’t bode well for a happy holiday. When you are harried, stress increases and activates the nervous system. More adrenaline and cortisol leads to more anxiety, disrupted sleep, and all those yucky physical sensations. Rushing in the midst of all the holiday errands and preparation leaves you making more mistakes and being less productive. Put all that behind the wheel of a car or hustling about a shopping mall leads you to become a grumpy elf. You know that and really didn’t need research to confirm it’s a good idea to slow down, breathe deeply, and stay in the present moment. Ho ho ho.

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The Gratitude Game

November brings the expected splash of gratitude suggestions across all media sources.

Portrayed as a happy gathering around a table of plenty, Thanksgiving can be a poignant mix of appreciation, comfort, annoyance, and pain. It serves as a doorway into the holiday gathering season, inviting unresolved issues with self, family, and friends to surface.

Every holiday gathering offers a swirling cornucopia of potential for comfort and stress.

It’s important to remember that you’re sitting around the table with other human beings. Everyone bringing their perspective on life, unhealed hurts, expectations, joys, and current needs. Some put on a cheerful face while others may spew the negativity that’s eating them.

Whatever your Thanksgiving gathering or alone time looks like, why not approach it differently this year?

The Gratitude Game is a playful invitation to your inner experience.

Inspired by research which suggests gratitude is good for you if you use it effectively, this game has a few guidelines but no rules. You’re both the game master and the beneficiary so you choose how and when you play.

You’re exploring what brings you a sense of wellbeing, increased connection, and true appreciation for the good in your life.

It works better if you enter the game with an intention to increase your happiness and gratitude.

Less is more.

Studies have found that those writing only once or twice a week in a gratitude journal experienced more happiness than those writing daily. This helps interrupt the tendency to adapt to positive events quickly and succumb to a fleeting, rote sense of appreciation.

So no need to go wild with gratitude on Thanksgiving. Make room for listening, laughing, and loving.

Choose 3 reasons you appreciate someone at the table.

Best to start with people than the delicious stuffing. It’s more impactful and also may soften that old irritation you’ve brought to dinner. Whether you begin with your favorite aunt or sibling who tortured you is up to you. How did this person help you grow those positive qualities you like about yourself? Ask what you appreciate about this person and relax so the answer might arrive (and perhaps surprise you).

Take your time and savor your appreciation.

If you’re surprised by a memory or awareness, even better. Engage the positive and let it grow for a few moments. How does it feel in your body? Gratitude often gives you a warm inner feeling as a smile arrives, announcing those feel good chemicals moving through your body.

No one arrives where they are in their lives without others.

Considering the gifts you were given by those with you, as well as those who are absent, invites you to think about where you’d be without this support. Imagine if you weren’t afforded a home, food, encouraging and challenging relationships, education, or the freedom to gather in thanksgiving. Reflection upon potential absence may enhance a deeper, authentic appreciation for all you take for granted.

The Gratitude Game is a personal, internal experience.

It serves to orient you to what’s good in your life as it supports wellbeing in your body, emotions, and mind. Feel free to share some of your insights with others so they may catch warmth.

Want a twist on the gratitude journal practice?

Try mailing a handwritten note of appreciation each week. Strengthening connection while enhancing well being.

That’s a win win.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Feeling depressed about your life or the state of the world? Research has shown that a single thoughtful act of gratitude produced an immediate 10% increase in happiness and a 35% reduction in symptoms of depression. Those effects disappear in 3 – 6 months so you’ve got to renew the effects with grateful action. That’s pretty specific, but you get the point. Consciously making thoughtful acts of appreciation lead to more happiness, less depression. Imagine if everyone in the world played this game. It begins with you.

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Seeking Elves for SisterHood Gift Drive

My basement is already filling with toys and gifts for the SisterHood families.

This is the TWENTY THIRD year of the SisterHood Holiday Gift Drive and I realize that it now has a momentum of it’s own.

23 years of making a huge difference in the lives of parents, children, and teens in Burlington township. Typically, 450 kids and teens are on the list and we’ve served anywhere from 250 to all 450 during these years. I don’t have to tell you that impact. Suffice it to say that the stories I’ve heard have shown me an incredible ROI (return on investment) from every hour and each dollar. So much good has been done over the years.

This year brings new elves and maintains foundational values. Here’s the quick update followed by practical ways you may contribute.

Designing the first Holiday Gift Drive, my husband and I talked a lot about how we were gonna do this. As my daughter grew up, she chimed in with her child and then teen perspective. So did many of the volunteers at SisterHood (because I asked) and elves at Soul Sanctuary. It’s why our foundational values continue to guide this drive.

It’s hard to be a parent in lower income bracket. That’s just a fact of life in the SisterHood community.

You have to meet the basic needs of housing, food, medical care, and education for your family. Many SisterHood families work hard but can’t make ends meet. They benefit from SisterHood’s food, clothing, community support and education programs. As much as they try, they just can’t provide a Christmas morning even close to many peers at school or nearby neighborhoods.

I’ve worked with lower income communities for over 40 years and I’ve consistently heard that not having enough gets translated into not being enough.

These stories hurt my heart. Especially ’cause it isn’t true. Parents and children living in lower income brackets are as valuable as any parent and child in any income bracket. I wonder, do you agree with this foundational belief?

Respect is essential. This gift drive respects parents, children, and the SisterHood organization.

Three things to consider. First, poor kids shouldn’t get crappy gifts.

I’ve seen the donations SisterHood receives and it’s disappointing that so many used, dollar store, or cheap toys are donated. It’s better to donate a $3 new ball than McDonald’s happy meal toys. (yup, lots of those). Nothing is wasted, we put them on the Stocking Gift table for parents to choose.

We collect new, sturdy, educational, and socially current toys and gifts.

Kids recognize their worth when they receive new toys and gifts. And can hold this worth when showing or talking about their gifts with peers at school. Yes, we live in a materialistic world. We respect that and understand a kid’s value is not reflected in the gifts they receive.

However, I’ve heard countless stories of how school age kids and peers mistake a nice vs crappy gift with their value as a human. And if we do it through the mechanism of ‘name brand’ toys, so be it. It’s a tiny contribution, but it matters.

Respecting kids is a tiny ripple in a desire to change this experience.

Second, we respect parents by offering them a quality collection of toys and gifts for their children.

They choose what to do with these gifts. Are they from the parents or the jolly fat man? Their choice. We don’t have a breakfast with Santa or gifts given from SisterHood as we believe that diminishes the parents’ desire to care for their children. And the benefit to children when they see their parents take care of them. There is no judgment upon whether they are a great or mediocre parent. They deserve respect and the ability to give their kids a Christmas morning experience.

Third, we respect the SisterHood organization which cares for Burlington County families facing challenge.

The SisterHood organization is made up solely of volunteers. Founded by a small group of African American woman led by Rev Hilda Covington, they aimed to raise potential in the marginalized neighborhoods. Targeting all kinds of needs, they called themselves Sisters in the Hood. I can’t even keep up with all of the programs that serve all manner of need in the neighborhoods.

I’ve built relationships with these volunteers over the years and am constantly inspired by their big hearts, innovative minds, and committed action.

I respect and trust the SisterHood volunteers to coordinate the entire Holiday Gift Drive, beyond our contribution.

I’m not present during the distribution of family gift bags. We believe it’s best to have familiar, trustworthy people who already are in relationship with the parents and grandparents. While many know of my family and our large contributing community, the experience is a neighborhood experience. As it should be. The parents express plenty of gratitude and we give SisterHood the gift of receiving it all.

However you contribute to the wellbeing of your neighbors, I respect you.

This isn’t a hard sell to donate. Rather, I invite you to consider making a difference in any direction you choose. If it is coming to SisterHood, I’ll give you some lovely options to make Christmas magic for these families.

The SisterHood Holiday depends upon a Whole Gang of Elves. Want to meet some?

Meet my favorite Barnes and Noble Moorestown Managers, Drew and Scott.

They enthusiastically agreed to make SisterHood the recipient of the B&N Annual Book Drive. It has already begun and is easy peasy. Go to the B&N Moorestown Store and find the SisterHood book selections at the check out counter. You buy them, leave them there, and I’ll be over to pick them up closer to Christmas. SisterHood volunteers will set up their “book store” so parents may pick out the perfect NEW books for their kids and teens.

Here’s something I was delighted to learn. Drew and Scott both believe that this annual book drive is the most important B&N activity of the year.

Wow. Respect, guys. Getting books in the hands of kids and teens matters. Let’s support the empowering action of reading, learning, exploring different worlds, and imagining new ideas.

Meet Tarik and Berra, sibling elves who have taken on the book drive and more.

Thanks to long time elf, Esther, I met a beautiful family this past week at Barnes and Noble. Esther and her fourth grade charge are leading up the book drive. Flyers, school and community involvement, and picking the book selections. It was an entertaining and enlightening experience for me to witness how a child could lead.

I also heard a lot of jokes. Here’s one: what is the highest place in a school? (read it all to find the answer).

His sister, Berra, is heading up a high school project providing Mystery Boxes for teens.

Imagine opening a box full of goodies, all interesting and fun for a teenager. I could not of thought of this myself and to brainstorm with her on this was exhilarating. Choosing books for the teen population and chatting about our favorite authors made the day even better. I am so curious to see what her finished project will look like. For now, it’s a mystery (get it?).

After 23 years, the momentum of generosity has a path of its own.

Jody has already dropped off a carload as she does every year. June offered her annual monetary donation, and Kristina’s family is ready to shop for a family. The Joyful Gathering Spiritual Community in Voorhees is sending a check for food just in time for Thanksgiving. And Members of the Center for Conscious Living in Moorestown are gearing up to drop off or donate. All before I started my asking.

Given all that assistance, I’m left with one task. invite Toy and Teen Gift Elves to join the fun. Are you one?

Here’s a simple list of how you can contribute to the SisterHood Holiday Gift Drive.

1. Donate a quality, new toy or teen gift. Drop off at Soul Sanctuary BY FRIDAY DECEMBER 13TH.

Early drop off date this year as it takes a lot of time to organize the Family Bags.

2. Donate moohlah and I’ll shop for you. I’ll spend every penny you donate on the kids and will choose the most needed gifts (promise).

Pay Pal @kathymilanophd. Venmo: Kathleen-Milano-2 (note – NOT Kathy. I’m formal on Venmo). Put a note that it is for SisterHood. Please also text or email me so I know to look for your donation.

3. Become an Elf who gathers gifts and toys from family, friends, and colleagues.

That is a big need. Please see if it yours to fill.

4. Head to Moorestown Barnes and Noble and ask for the SisterHood Book Shelf.

Buy it and leave it. Double win as you also support this special place. In the days of Amazon, a big book store is a luxury. Let’s help keep it viable.

Any questions, don’t hesitate to email me. As always, my gratitude exceeds my asking. Just know you make a difference. Wherever you choose to ripple generosity this holiday, I send you thanks. This is a time where the generous giving from a place of love and trust in the abundance we share will benefit all of us.

Here’s the answer to the perfect Book Drive joke.

What’s the highest place in a school? The library! ‘Cause it’s full of stories. lol. Gotta love that kid.

There’s more than one teen making ripples in December. Annie Law is expanding her holiday offering with a harp concert at Soul Sanctuary on December 1st.

Join Mary and Annie Law for a free concert, original art sale, and a free group energy healing. It’s an all day fiesta with food, friends, art, music, and good vibes. Come shop for one of a kind high vibrational art. And be sure to give some love to Annie who is baking cookies and offering her heaven sent music. Just for you.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Feeling depressed about your life or the state of the world? Research has shown that a single thoughtful act of gratitude produced an immediate 10% increase in happiness and a 35% reduction in symptoms of depression. Those effects disappear in 3 – 6 months so you’ve got to renew the effects with grateful action. That’s pretty specific, but you get the point. Consciously making thoughtful acts of appreciation lead to more happiness, less depression. Imagine if everyone in the world played this game. It begins with you.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.  
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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.