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This Decade I’m Gonna Change the World

The music was blaring. My muscles were straining. My mind started protesting.

Laying on my back, lifting my barbell with 40 other fit souls, I wondered if I had the strength for those last 16 press ups.  I was thinking that I was pretty much done.  Glad I hadn’t added that extra weight.  Feeling myself weaken as my mind exercised it’s questioning voice.

“Finish strong!  You can do it!” encouraged the teacher. 

“Damn straight I can!” responded my mind. 

Miraculously, strength poured through my shaking arms as I finished every last one of those stinkin’ reps.   And the positive mind rules again, I thought.  My body popped up as I prepared for the next set.  I started strong as my mind noted how much it liked this song. 

Positive mind + motivating instructor + really good music. 

I recognized the benefit of this equation outside the gym.  I thought about how I used this formula to enhance creativity, personal interactions, teaching, meditation, and business planning.

My mind wandered. My strength and coordination promptly waned.

Bringing my focus back to the moment, I realized how important it was to stay present to the physical experience of the class. Whenever my mind travelled some tangent, I lost my rhythm, couldn’t follow directions, and felt weaker. 

Interesting. 

I watched my mind wander and my body’s energy follow.  I felt my mind focus and my physical energy strengthen.  “Where attention goes, energy flows.”  Got it!  Heading into the next power set, I was clear, in sync, strong, and capable. 

“It’s our first class of 2020!  What are you gonna create this decade?”   

“This is the decade I’m gonna change the world!” declared my mind.   

This statement was so clear, strong, and in sync with my mind, body, motivation, and energy that I thought I had spoken aloud. Which wouldn’t have been a bad thing, I suppose.  I thought about the audacity of that statement, willing to let my concentration and coordination slip a bit.  What the heck does that even mean, I wondered.  And then it hit me. 

Of course I can change the world.  And I am determined to do so.

Back in the groove and loving the club version of the most played song of 2019 (an oldie, but goodie – Uptown Funk), I was strong and clear.  Physics, spirituality, psychology, yogic philosophy, mysticism, and deep inner knowing all point in the same direction. 

We create the world around us through our conditioned projections.

 

Self concept, perception of other people, interactions, situations, events, past memory and the elusive future are all influenced by the projections of our state of mind. Fueled by the conditioned beliefs we formed and absorbed as we grew.  What a woman thinketh, she becomes. 

As within, so without.  As above, so below. 

When we are frightened, the world is a frightening place. When we are hating on ourselves, it is easy to hate on others or expect rejection. When we are on top of the world, it is easy to imagine and attain success, positive experiences, and lots of feel good exchanges.  When we are motivated and committed to health and vitality, we encounter all sorts of support within and around us to become vitally healthy.

When we have a positive mind, encouraging instructor, and great music, we power through barbell class. 

My world – inner and outer – could absolutely change.  This was clear and absolutely attainable.  The formula?  Noticing any time my mind wandered away from what was actually happening as it ventured into my daydream, rumination, or nightmares.  Anytime I argued with Life, I would be reminded that some inner idea of Kathy Milano was declaring that “thing” should be somehow different.

According to whom? The world according to Kathy, that’s who.

As if my little pea brain knew the path for each soul, the perfect way of being for each person, and the simple solution for each complex situation for humanity and the planet.  I had noticed (countless times) how my mind wandered into uncomfortable dark places when I argued with how Life was showing up.  That was a million times worse than losing my focus while lifting weights.  Yet, meandering within my ruminating mind was a well developed habit.  

Waging war on what the moment presented, I was disrupting the peace within me.  Every. Single. Time.  

So, apparently Life speaks loudly during my workouts.  I’m all in.  Knowing I absolutely have the clarity, capability, and desire to dive deep into my own conditioned beliefs in order to release them. 

This is the decade I change the world.  My world. 

Which holds all of you. I’m looking forward to discovering even more of the freedom, peace, and love that (already) inhabit this beautiful life.  And to see you much more clearly once I clear up my distortions.

If you’re a bit stuck in the negative mind, don’t despair. That is the trait all we mere mortals share.  Be gentle with yourself while remaining fiercely focused on uncovering all those beliefs which keep you bound. If you need some help with this, I’m happy to help. 

And if you think that the world is going to hell in a hand basket, check out The Decade in Cheer.   

A friend turned me on to David Byrne’s newsletter “Reasons to be Cheerful.” (Who else loved the Talking Heads?)  In their words: “Reasons to be Cheerful is a non-profit editorial project that is tonic for tumultuous times.  We tell stories that reveal there are, in fact, a surprising number of reasons to feel cheerful.” 

Okay, so maybe me finishing strong that one fitness class isn’t earth shattering news. 

But, I gotta tell you.  I walked out of there with a bit of bounce in my step (and no shaking in my biceps), so I’m cheerfully sharing this story.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Good news about exercise! Over time, regular exercise remodels the brain’s reward system (higher circulating levels of dopamine & more available dopamine receptors). Helping you anticipate pleasure, feel motivated, and maintain hope. Exercise is helpful in relieving depression, repairing neurological damage caused by addiction, and expanding your capacity for joy. Especially important as you age. Compared with inactive peers, older adults who exercised have brain reward systems resembling people who are decades younger.  Decades, people. Get moving!

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I am a Dog

I was playing  the game “Headbands” with my dog the other day.

He seemed to have a hard time guessing what his card said. 

Australian Shepards are supposed to be smart, so I wasn’t sure why he was having such a hard time.

He played the game well as he sought clues in the yes/no answers to his questions.  “Am I an animal?  Do I have four legs?  Do I chase balls?  Do I  live with a great family?”  Yet he couldn’t seem to grasp the correct answer … “I am a dog.”  I thought maybe he was losing his mojo. 

Then he looked at me with that all knowing gaze and I finally got it. 

He was beyond smart.  

He was wise ... playing the game while knowing the whole time it was a "game."

So when he asked me the next question “Am I the infinite, interconnected, harmonious flow of energy that many call LOVE which is also known as the fabric of the Universe?”  I simply said yes.

We stopped playing the game at that point. 

Instead we walked outside marveling at the how the natural world was doing its thing. As if it knew exactly what to do and how to do it.  I had plenty of time to notice the sights, smells, colors, and surprises as he frequently stopped to “smell the roses” and water everything else.  It was really more of a meander than a walk. Giving me the opportunity to notice that I experienced more of nature’s gifts with him than walking on my own.  

Such a wise teacher, this “dog.”  

Sometimes he surprises me. Like the day he taught me that size is relative and perception is in the … perception … of the beholder. Illustrated by the photo below.

I wish he had taught my physics class. 

I might have actually learned something and had a lot more fun.  It would have been a “sweet” experience.

I also appreciate how he demonstrates how to Be in the Now. 

Eckhart Tolle has nothing on him when I walk in the door to be greeted as if I appeared out of thin air.  What a celebration of the miracle of “walking in” to a new scene … a new moment.  The energy is contagious and I totally understand why dogs wag their tails and people spontaneously offer up the “happy dance.” 

When I pop out to the car to get my last bag and return 15 seconds later to the same response, I don’t know whether to value the ability to be truly and delightfully present or check for dementia. 

Just when I think I know something, he reminds me that not everything is as it seems. 

Like when he quizzes me on the nature of reality with questions like “what is real?” and “who am I really?”  I just never know what “game” he will come up with next.  

One thing I know for sure, I have a lot to learn from that wise being I thought was a dog.  

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Most agree pets are therapeutic. But a robotic seal? In Japan, Paro has been offering companionship to nursing home patients since 2005. The seniors love this furry animatronic seal! Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology found interactions with Paro improved mental sharpness in Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. Best results were from those reporting Paro enjoyment. Seems that furry robot boosts moods and increases resistant to stress. Robot seal love – my new favorite thing.

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You. Kindness. Presence. Love.

I’m all set.

Everything is purchased, wrapped, chopped, and decorated. My home is warm with cheer, twinkling lights on the tree, classic carols cascading through the soundscape, and a sense of childlike wonder in the air. With conscious intent this year, everything was easy and delightful.  

Intent is everything. 

But you already know this. 

As I head into Soul Sanctuary today, I am saturated in the Light and in the Wonder of Living.

I am grateful to be here. On this planet and in this life with every joy and every challenge that is revealing itself at this time. 

I choose this. Choice is everything. 

But you already know this. 

In this Season of Light, I hope you also know that You are Precious.

You came in this way and nothing that ever happened in your life could tarnish this preciousness. It is still shining and I see this in you. 

You have so much potential and it has a natural capacity to emerge.

I hope you let it out – the world needs what you have to share. Life has a way of growing itself if you give it a little attention, love, and belief in your own magical abilities.

You are a creative wonder! This is something worth celebrating.

Everything in your life is evidence of this. If you don’t like what is showing up within and around you, you can choose to change this. You can create even higher good for yourself and others. Adopt a child’s playful, delighted sense of wonder. This is within you somewhere and it can be resurrected – even if it wasn’t part of your own history.

You are lovable simply because you exist. 

 

You need not earn love, only claim it. Start within, start today, and forget your history. You can choose this. I hope the Light awakens within you a desire to fall so in love with yourself that you can’t help but shine like the brightest star (even when you feel like you are underwater).

Your Presence is a blessing to this world. 

Deep within you, this Truth is already known and pulsing. You are the Light of the world. When you acknowledge this, the Light begins to shine of its own accord. You can start by opening a crack in that brilliant protection system that all humans share. Just a crack – let that Light out. The Light knows what to do and this beautiful world can use a bit more Light … flowing uniquely through you. 

It doesn’t take a genius to to know this about you.

However, it is more likely to be seen when you treat yourself with the type of kindness that is unrelenting and all encompassing. No matter what you think, do, have become, or failed to become (yet), you choose to treat yourself with a crazy level of kindness. Crazy, genius strategy.

Your Presence, your Kindness, your Love. This is what the world needs now.

Why not start with yourself? And then your family, friends, strangers, and those lost to their own Light. Find all the generosity buried within you to fully be with every loving person, grumpy troll, jolly elf, and irritating aspect of yourself and others. Giving leads to getting the same (it’s a brain thing).

Whether this is a happy, grief filled, busy, or lonely holiday Season of Light, I wish for you to remember the preciousness of your Being. 

The greatest gift I can offer you is my commitment to grow into a better human being. One who is filled with so much kindness, love, and appreciation for myself. So full that it is easy to spill over and see your preciousness, potential, creativity, lovability, and the wonder of your existence in every moment. I choose this. Join me if you will.

May you Remember your Light and turn it up a bit.

Thank you for Being. You. Beautiful. Worthy. Lovable. Here.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Research at Rutgers, a local NJ university, highlights the benefit of appreciating the little and big things in life. Seven aspects of appreciation were evaluated, included gratitude, awe, and connecting with the present moment. While appreciation and gratitude both seem to be strongly connected to happiness, results suggest that appreciation is twice as significant as gratitude in determining overall satisfaction with life. Twice as significant. You can apply these findings practically by savoring the positive aspects of your life, valuing friends and family, celebrating the good times, and spending time outdoors. One caveat: don’t make appreciate a rote habit. Cultivate a fluid, delightful practice of appreciation.

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Tune into the Sacred

I was singing Christmas Carols in my car the other day when an advertisement for a senior assisted living community came on the radio.

The peppy announcer revealed that my holiday could be a bit brighter if I looked into arranging my every need at this facility.  A must for my holiday gift list with a side of peace of mind in the New Year.

This caught my attention. What did long term health care for the elderly have to do with this Christmas season, I wondered.

As the next ad announced the perfect gift of an oil change and safety check on my vehicle and promised holiday delight and peace on Earth, I was intrigued. I began to listen in earnest to the ads sprinkled between the holiday classics.

How many ways were there to spruce up my holiday, family happiness, and overall wellbeing?

Apparently, I could do this with fast food, slow food, appliances, clothing, travel, pet supplies, and eyeglasses. Who knew that holiday cheer was so abundantly available and that Santa had sold out on every level imaginable!

Interspersed within the traditional carols and local high schools rearranging the classics, were a few songs of devotion.

Oh Holy Night. The Sacred Light appeared on Earth. This invitation seemed quieter and sturdier than the garish promises of a consumer soaked culture desperate for just the thing to right the tilt of a world gone astray.

I felt a deep resonance within the story of the birthing of the Sacred Light.

The light shimmered in every traffic light, headlamp, and reflection. Here was the longevity of something that always was and always will be available. Right now, this Light was not so much needing to be purchased as it was ready to be opened. 

Despite the mad seeking for the perfect gift all around me, I became aware of the deep potential to saturate within this Light.

Turning off the noise of the radio, I drove within the silent harmony of this invitation as the Light reflected within, around, and without.

Everything mundane and magical shimmered as the Light danced with every form and every idea.

Every magical idea of Santa and every belief that gifts would brighten our lives became understandable. The manipulation of this Sacredness, be it in consumerism or religion, was innocent within this dance. Absolutely everything could be enjoyed, valued, and shared.

 

This Sacred Light was simply available without concern for how it was depicted, missed, or distorted.

 

With gratitude I turned the radio on again and let the Light pour through my heart as I sang the songs and honored the silliness of the advertisements.

I was Light Soaked through and through – ready for Santa, ready for the birthing, and open to goodwill and peace on Earth.

I believed in the goodness of humankind and the potential for evolving into the luminous human. I returned to the magic of generosity, love, and receptivity be it in our hearts, our homes, or through kind acts. I felt the cheery “ho ho ho” harmonize alongside the soaring Angelic choir and the grinch persona within.

I was infused with the Light and tuned into the Sacred. All without stepping into the mall. 

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

In a world of consumerism, it is important to expand your understanding of how you consume.  Research has shown when you witness an event (think tv commercial, youtube, news cast), mirror neurons in the brain light up as if you are performing the event yourself.  Thinking about exercise has been found to build muscle mass. The contagion effect explains why being part of a crowd bursting with negative energy leaves you angry or unsettled. You are a consumer of all things that you notice. And influenced by more things than you realize. Get conscious about what and how you consume. Eat more light. 

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Hunger Leads to Gratitude

I was hungry on the way to work today.

😒 

My green Shake didn’t cut it.

🌱

I remembered Starbucks – haven’t been there in forever.😉

🚦

At the red (traffic) light I ordered my ice tea and egg bites.  I parked, walked in, heard my name called, and was greeted with a radiant smile (as if I had made HER day). 

🥳

I realized (again) that I have the privilege of living in an abundant world.

🌎

And through no skill of my own, I was born into a country, a family, and a culture where I can flow easily and comfortably through my days.

🙏🏻 

My gratitude flooded my system. The sheer wonder of this gift was upon me.

 

I then saw a picture of Tayina, age 6, in my mind. She hung out with me at lunch during our field trip to the beach (Culture Camp, Love Orphanage, Haiti, 2018).

💞

She patiently waited for everyone to be served. For grace to be said by her adopted father Gabriel. For the group to surprise me by singing Happy Birthday (it was one).

🎂 

There was no outward indication by these children that they rarely ate meat or sometimes only had two plates of rice and beans a day.

😔

There was only patience, happiness to be with us, and when I looked … the quiet hunger in their polite eyes for a heaping plate of food that was never their day to day reality.

🍽

So I ate my convenient eggs today with a Love Soaked Heart, a fierce gratitude, and a continued commitment to bring the children of Love O the things they deserve and don’t have … simply due to where they were born. 

🙏🏻

If you want to meet the Love O kids, visit my Making a Difference page.


Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Kids are hungry in the United States. So are their parents. It’s mind boggling really living in a first world with an enormous third world issue. Hunger. It may not be easy to spot unless you are hungry. Or live in those kind of neighborhoods. Or are the family struggling to meet ends meet while your neighbors know nothing about your plight. Schools, teachers, neighbors, scout troops, churches all share something in common. They feed the hungry.  Let’s do that. A lot more often. Until there is no more hunger in the US. Giving a meal means more than you know to a hungry belly.

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Can you Change your Mindset in 1 Day?

Can you change your mindset in 1 day? This woman says YES!

I believe in the power of Tiny Actions sustainably, consciously, and soulfully applied. 

In fact, I’ve witnessed so much more actual transformation with this approach than the deep dives into a HUGE INTENTION.

The HUGE intention starts off with a bang and then kinda fades a way without a peep.  Think how many New Year’s resolutions and big plans you’ve thought up … and then laid down.  Or rather, they laid themselves down for a long winter’s nap when you weren’t even looking. 

The reason most goals or resolutions FAIL is because they are 
S-C-A-T-T-E-R-E-D.

Scattered intentions are easily discarded, especially when they are believed at a subconscious level to be unreachable.  As if the mind whispers (in a really creepy voice), “You know, you’ve already tried this a bunch of times and it hasn’t worked out.  Maybe it’s best to forget about this dream.  It’s probably out of your league or too much to accomplish this time around. Not to worry, you’re good.” 

The insidious voice is tricky. It has a gravitational pull which maintains your set point (your habitual way of living) rather than your goals. 

When you lay down that goal (again), the voice changes then. Still creepy, it whispers of things better left undone because of some inherent less than capable aspect of your nature.  Such rubbish, this sneaky, creepy influential inner voice 

So, I was pleased to receive an email from someone who was S-H-0-C-K-E-D by the rapid changes in her mindset after just a single day.  

“Kathy! I set my sights on the wealth of knowledge from the Sacred Intent Retreat being life altering.” [Side note …. great intention.  Feel free to steal it!] It certainly was!  My reprogramming of old mindsets through Tiny Actions and Heart Assisted Therapy techniques made a profound difference. I’m grateful, yet shocked, to see how quickly my mindset changed!!”

One sweet benefit of these Tiny Soulful Actions is the stealthy way they operate under the radar of the egoic mind.

Now, you may be wondering just how long these Tiny Tweaks have stayed around.  Given human nature and the tendency to resort back to the zone of comfort called “habit.” 

With the application of a number of new habits, techniques, AND tweaky mindsets, the tiny grew into huge transformation for that woman.  

While the specifics aren’t mine to share, lets just say they covered just about every area of life.  And, no, the tiny in Tiny Action wasn’t really medium size, nor extra large.  It was so teeny that it gave me pause. 

I recall thinking “Now, THAT is one TINY action.” 

Yup.  My “mindset habit” wondered if that teeny movement in perspective and action would make any difference.  I learned something from that lady.  A lot actually. 

In fact, I am now a super fan of the Tiny Action sustainably and soulfully executed.  

I’ve applied tiny movements in all areas of my life over the past 10 months since the first Sacred Intent Retreat was offered.  All I can say is that I am rocking the tiny into an art form. And, I am directly experiencing massive shifts in all areas of my life.  

You can join the experiment next time I offer the Sacred Intent Retreat. We’ll explore the intersection of spiritual, energetic, and success principles in a practical way .. applied YOUR way to YOUR life. 

Don’t take my, or her, word for it.  Explore these principles on your own.  Imagine a day where you explore the area(s) of your Life that are calling you.  And create a meaningful plan that you can successfully execute … with the help of the PlayBook you go home with.  This “tiny” taste is just the tip of the iceberg.


Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

When you’re setting a goal, you activate the competitive nature of your willpower.  Health psychologist, Kelly McGonigal, describes willpower as a competition between the part of you wanting immediate gratification. And that part focused on long term results. Four interventions can tip the scales in the direction of long-term goal achievement. Get enough sleep.  Meditate 10 minutes a day. Get some exercise. Eat a plant based and low glycemic diet. All support the brain’s optimal functioning which are critical for staying on track with goals aligned with your core values. Keeping your energy efficient and enhancing your decision making.

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If the Sky is not the Limit, What Is?

The other day, I noticed I was stuck in a reoccurring pattern.  It was not 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 showed up in my life over the years, and how it served me.  I saw the protective intent in its formation and the limiting hold it had over me in its current form.

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. 

I plan to venture into those waters again and again in order to witness what hidden creatures within my psyche have a hold on me so that I can break free.  The practice of going within and under to the murky spaces within may not be so much fun.  It can be downright frightening, disheartening, and sobering.  Yet it is essential if you wish to live in and as the light – as you and I so often claim. 

You want to cultivate an unwavering commitment to explore the beliefs you hold about yourself, others, and how life should be.  

A lifetime of conditioning has created an underground “rule set” which is running your day to day existence.  You have to visit this in order to change it.  As you do, it is vital to remember that you did nothing wrong in creating these influential beliefs.  This is simply the result of growing up human.  And if you are reading these words, then I will assume you are one … a human being.

You have a brilliant capacity for learning, deduction, and creative problem solving.  Simply brilliant.

When you are blind to the fact that much of your subconscious “rule set” was created (brilliantly) by your tiny child mind, you are bound by the limits of a child’s lack of perspective, experience, and understanding.  When you recognize that you have a vast collection of mistaken ideas, habits, and perspectives, you have a choice.  You can hide, blame, or judge yourself (or project this onto others).  Or you become eager to explore the depths in order to “weed” out these younger deductions about your identify, how to navigate life, or understand the complexity of interpersonal relationships. 

You become brave enough to dive into the shadow world of your being.  You become your own hero. 

Cultivating a fearless practice of examining your dark, dusty, and at times at times frightening underworld reveals a vast network of misperception.  Revealing these false ideas formed by your tiny mind is freeing.  Rather than protect by holding them tighter, you risk everything by releasing them with love. And you discover that your beautiful adult self can live more freely without these tiny ideas restricting your every move.

After all, would you let your 6 years old child chauffeur you around town in your car every day? 

 

While this idea is ludicrous, it is a powerful metaphor for what is happening.  The decision to become aware and do the work may “disturb” you into sadness, disgust, fear, or disillusionment at times.  In these moments, you can consciously engage your intellect which is wiser, more experienced, and knows better than the child mind.  It is then that you must remember (and acknowledge) that your assumptions were never accurate. 

Just like a child’s belief of the monster hiding under the bed was never real. 

Life is a Wonder when you can respond in real time rather than from the conditioned habits of your life. This takes a personal commitment to look deeply at those things which bind you.  To recognize that they did not start out that way.  The ideas you formed when you were young, inexperienced, and often overwhelmed were meant to help you. Be clear now – they are no longer helping you. 

Having the eyes to see this allows you to become a fearless explorer who often is frightened during the process of diving within the murky waters. 

Learning how to “drive your own car” as a conscious, loving, and tremendously compassionate adult is a skill worth cultivating. This process calls for you to be truly kind with yourself and to reach for assistance when the waters are especially choppy.  That assistance may be another person, the Divine in any form, or your own Soul which knows the Truth of your precious nature. 

Letting go the monsters that haunted you then will open you to discover the helpers who want to enjoy you now. 

 

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

When life is hard or problems seem insurmountable, it’s a good time to play, dance, or just get your body pumping.  Giving your brain space to organize and seek a solution. Reducing stress hormones, boosting endorphins, sharpening memory, and jumpstarting creativity.  Especially in the midst of personal, social, and global disruption, play is more important than ever.  Grab your hoola hoop, take a jog with the dog, or dance in your kitchen.  Play will boost your mood and build resilience.

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Do I need to Pack a Bag for this Journey?

I’ve been reminiscing about some of my most intimate relationships recently.

The kind I have with the celestial realm.  The Angels. The Archangels. The Mothers. The Luminous Ones.  The most grounded celestial of all – Pachamama (Mother Earth).  It has been an interesting time.  Kinda like Treasure Mapping my life backwards to discover the Map Markers or key events that led me into these enriching and challenging relationships.  

At first, I thought I stumbled upon them.  (That assumption was quickly corrected.)  

I was shown a series of inner images that linked together the Sacred Invitations to enter the Path of the Sacred Feminine Mystery (although I am crystal clear those words were never mentioned).  Probably the main reason that I didn’t map this path as I walked it was that it was understated.

In fact, most introductions were downright underwhelming. A flop considering the expectations of my mind.

I recall a delicious afternoon at a friends house 15 years ago where we gathered to receive attunements to Archiea Faith.  A female Archangel – go figure – who hung out with Archangel Michael.  Oh yeah, I knew him.  Thanks to a few angel books.  So, I was in and expecting fireworks.  An attunement!  To a Female Archangel (Archeia)!  Oh, how life would be easier and more delightful. 

My experience was a bit of a dud.

 It was lovely hanging out with the ladies and listening to their exquisite experiences.  Mine felt sweet – full of peace and gray static in my inner vision. Then it was done.  I was good.  I liked these ladies and they had cookies. 

What I totally missed at the time was how the depth of that Sacred Invitation would totally rearrange and direct my life forward.

 

Looking back, I realized the next 5 years involved a series of journeys. The celestial kind and the ones requiring an airplane.  They led me to weeklong adventures diving into the Divine with plenty of contact with the (well known) Angels (not an Archiea in sight) and the natural world. About a year in, after I was certified as an Angel Therapy Practitioner®, the Angels suggested that I let them teach me directly.  Again, I was in. 

So, I quit reading angel and spiritual books. I opened to the invitation to be mentored by the Angels. (I figured they knew a bit more than I did). 

Life changed. It became easier (when they weren’t kicking my ass or unpacking my many years of conditioning). All in all, looking back, those 5 years included a lot of healing and transcending my old, limiting beliefs. For that, I am deeply grateful. I got to pay it forward and witnessed the Angelic Mentoring that flowed through me. This was often attributed to me, however in reality, I was just a student along with everyone else.  

A decade ago, I was minding my business at the gym, when I was literally blown off the treadmill.  (Thank God-ess for that red emergency button or it would’ve been even more dramatic). 

Breathing deeply, and not from exertion, I wondered how the photo of The Temples of Humankind in the magazine I was reading had the energetic force to blow me backwards.  (Note to Those in The Know:  just not a great idea when a human is walking on a moving belt). 

So, there that was.  An Invitation to travel to Damanhur for an immersion into their community and The Temples of Humankind (worth a Google to look at the spectacular Temples … hidden in a mountain, created in secret in the Piedmont valley, and dedicated to all Sacred Traditions.  Or check out the Temples photo book in Soul Sanctuary).  

I immersed in Damanhur and the Temples for 10 days, including a spontaneously small group sleep over in the Hall of Mirrors (first group ever).  I didn’t sleep much that night.

I experienced so much at Damanhur and our trip to Turin, yet realized when I came home that I had not even scratched the surface.  That was okay. I figured I would be taught along the way – unpacking more of what was given to me in Italy. After running through the Frankfurt airport to catch my connecting flight (good thing I can read German), I had time for a quick pit stop before boarding.

As I walked out of the ladies room, I faced a poster of the Po River and a the beautiful Catholic Church in honor of Mother Mary.  This temple was originally a Temple to the Goddess (Isis, Great Mother) and was rebuilt in Catholic Italy to honor the Mother in their way.  

It was there that the world tilted and I lost my shit.  

As the Great Mother spoke to me and strongly put forth her Sacred Invitation, I stood there crying while women bumped me gently on their way out of the ladies room.  As I slowly boarded the plane, I realized that while I thought I had come to see Damanhur (and I’m grateful I did,) the revelation of Her simple instruction made things clear. 

I’ve spent the last 10 years unpacking that short conversation.  And now I live it.

So, the answer to the question: “Do I have to pack for this Journey into the Sacred Feminine Mystery?” is a big fat no. 

However, if you are interested in exploring, through your own direct experience, the teachings of the Sacred Feminine through the archetypal representations of this energy, please join us for the next round of classes.  Beginning next Tuesday evening, we will dive into relationship with the 7 Archeiai (those lovely Feminine Archangels) to discover how they support the Action of the Feminine (and your ability to live it). 

You will meet the Great Mother, the Liberator, the Sovereign, and the Muse. All archetypal energy which is seeking first relationship, then embodiment.  

What you discover will be yours.  For this energy and Way of Being is seeking those who wish to live in the flow of stillness, receptivity, nourishment, delight, and ease.  Life has a way of showing you the way and these beautiful mentors will do the same.  Join us if you feel called to jump into your own personal invitation … which will reveal itself in the perfect time and perfect place.  

I’ll be there with you as we meander together along this beautiful path, knowing we have all the time we need to unpack the gifts and wisdom which will certainly be flowing.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Research from the University of New South Wales suggests how trusting your gut instinct can help guide faster, more accurate decision making. Measuring intuition, participants were exposed to emotional images outside conscious awareness while attempting to make accurate decisions. The results of the study found that even when people were unaware of these images, they used this information to make more confident and accurate decisions. Intuitive awareness, as a topic of research, is gaining ground as it is considered more than just a fuzzy feeling. Einstein credited intuition for some of his success. If it was good enough for that genius, why not for you?

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Talking Trash about Trash

Instagram disturbs me.  

That is,  when it is not amazing me.  My mind has been blown again and again by the most creative works of art on the planet – the never ending array of sea creatures who quietly inhabit the oceans on our beautiful planet.  

Soon after I got on Instagram, I dumped most of the inspirational folks I followed so that I could make room for the creatures who were swimming, crawling, and decorating our oceans.

So I could learn from the humans who were documenting their existence, educating me on their features/functions, and creatively improving the health of the oceans. I enjoyed my favorite art museum appearing underwater all over the world as Jason deCaires Taylor anchors his sculptures on the ocean floor to create artificial reefs.  As I became more enamored with my underwater friends, my sense of wonder turned into a sense of horror. 

These precious creatures are our neighbors and we are killing them slowly.  

I knew some of this. Most people have some idea of the amount of plastic in the oceans. I was doing some minimal effort toward decreasing my contribution to the plastic problem.  By minimal, I mean minimal.  I was very good at recycling, used my own bags sometimes, picked up trash wherever I went, donated consciously, and ordered lots of 4Ocean bracelets.  However, as groups like @4Ocean, @recycleseas, @ocean.diary, and others shared their images and I began to research the issue, I realized there is a frightening amount of plastic and trash in the ocean. And it is getting worse.  

I also recognized that my minimal effort was the result of my comfortable lifestyle and (up until now) innocent ignorance. 

I had been schooled in the belief that if I recycled a plastic bag/bottle or used a reusable water bottle or grocery sack, I was somehow part of the solution. I have a distant memory of my youth with people throwing McDonald’s bags out of car windows and food wrappers on the ground as they walked.  Luckily those days are gone yet they created in me a habit of picking up trash especially in natural environments so it does not end in streams, rivers, and lakes (all headed to the ocean).  After witnessing images of trucks dumping trash into rivers, surfers paddling through oceans of floating plastic, analysis of the micro plastic particles in fish, and a baby turtle caught in a plastic cap (having crawled through a crack), I realized something else entirely. 

My ignorance was deadly. And I was disturbed enough to change my behavior.   

 

I took a look at our family’s giving plan and found that we already were contributing strongly to organizations focused on cleaning the oceans, environment, and protecting marine/animal habits. We agreed to increase our environmental volunteerism and talk more about the issue with those interested. We radically decreased our use of single-use plastic and adopted an ongoing commitment to taking the “next step” especially as we live in this modern, convenient world of “plastic around everything we purchase.”  We have a long way to go, a lot more to learn, and a lifetime to contribute.  And we are committed to changing our own behavior. 

I was haunted by that video of the truck dumping trash into the river.

So I researched and learned how 10 rivers (8 are in Asia) are responsible for 88 – 95% of the ocean plastic due to a number of factors. These include lack of waste management systems, flimsy laws, an influx of plastic products, absence of policy, and a lack of education about the impact on our ecosystem. Not to mention an emerging market for plastic packaging as income increases allowing more purchasing. These products are typically in mini plastic pouches/bottles which are affordable, thus creating a wealth of plastic refuse.

I learned about “garbage gyres” which are vortexes of trash which cover miles of ocean. 

Even more distressing was the fact this visible or floating trash represents only 5% of plastic pollution while 95% percent is submerged.  95%.  Cue more distressing Instagram videos of sea horses eating plastic and (poignant) rescues of sea creatures being cut free from plastic lines. There are lots more facts, but you know how to Google and if you are interested, I hope you will. 

After learning about the problem, I wondered what genius power of humanity was working on creative solutions. 

I checked into one of my favorite feel good organizations: 4Ocean.  Started by surfers who were dismayed by the plastic strewn over the Bali beaches and in the oceans, they began to pay fisherman (who could not fish due to polluted waters) to “fish” for plastic.  I wear and gift my 4Ocean recycled bracelets (representing the removal of a pound of plastic) to remind myself and others of the benefit of changing our ways. Yet, I know they are dealing with the aftermath of a problem that must be addressed at its source.

I was thrilled when 4Ocean created a post on Haiti and hired locals to clear the trash. 

I’ve witness first hand what Haiti looks like as there is no centralized trash collection, waste management process, or government funds/policy to support this small island with lots of people.  The streets are lined with trash, often burning, as people in the overcrowded cities and countryside alike are left to dispose of their own trash.  Good people.  Human people.  Who just happen to live in a place that has no sanitation/waste management system. I checked out the Instagram photos of a Haitian beach cleanup crew – saddened and gladdened by the photos. And for some inexplicable reason today, I decided to read the comments.

Lots of people were talking trash about trash … and the awful people who created it.

I won’t reprint those comments here.  You can imagine the mix.  Lots of saddened people.  Lots of compliments for the wonderful 4Ocean people.  And lots of awful comments about the disgusting humans who are wrecking our planet and who should know better.  It was sobering. I realized that Instagram doesn’t offer a “mirror” option. It doesn’t ring a bell when our own innocent ignorance is revealed with the ease of typing our impulsive response.

Social media doesn’t offer a teachable moment where we might see ourself in those we judge so harshly.

It is easy to be angered, saddened, and judgmental when you see the horrors of these photos and videos. I’ve had all of those reactions. And if you haven’t lived in a place where there is no sanitation nor waste management system, let alone laws to govern safe behavior, then you really can’t walk in their shoes. Or spend the day as an 8 year old in Manilla waist high in a dirty river (of trash) scouring for plastic to sell so you can feed your family.  I realized at the end of the day, I must educate myself more fully, significantly (not comfortably) change my behavior, and participate with others who would likely welcome a chance to go beyond the bare minimum.   

I’m inspired enough to be uncomfortable because I love those sea creatures and the interdependent way we all inhabit this one world.

There are lots of avenues to learn more.  Here is just one article pointing toward the problem of plastic pollution and those who are focused on finding the solution.  Kudos to them. I dove into those websites to explore the proactive and responsive strategies as both are needed.  I was grateful to see organizations involving young people as they will inherit these (plastic) oceans. 

I’ll continue to use Instagram as a mechanism to disturb and delight me. (Although I’ll skip the comments from now on).

Whatever it takes to keep my focus on taking small steps to clean up the world around me – my home, my property, my neighborhood, my behavior, my world.  From there, I’ll join others who are doing the same.   

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

Reforesting heads below Sea Level. The loss of ocean sea grass and plants due to pollution is dangerous for the planet. Until recently, replanting the ocean floor seemed insurmountable. Australian marine ecologists have succeeded in replanting two vital species with the help of local citizens.  Volunteers collect sea grass shoots that wash up on shore so scientists are free to replant.  Providing a “nursery habitat” to juvenile seahorses, crabs, and fish. Scientists worldwide are interested in adopting this model.

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Hot Yoga Mess

“I had a near death experience in yoga today.” 

This was the text I sent my daughter after my first experience in the Heated Flow Yoga class at my new gym. I had no idea what I was getting into when I ventured into a large, dimly lit yoga studio that was already uncomfortably warm and full of people of all ages. 

By full, I mean really well attended by lots of well toned people. 

This is a good sign, I mused, thinking that it must be a good class. So, I tuned into myself and began to stretch as more bodies poured into room bringing their energy (and heat) with them. This was certainly a different experience than being at Live in Joy Yoga in Audubon which is my favorite yoga studio.

The class began in a familiar fashion and I felt a sense of comfort as we began moving with some gentle poses. 

The differences in this type of class were noticeable but understandable.  I was in a gym after all, not a yoga studio. The music was modern, like you might hear on the radio, instead of the familiar yogic chants or ambient music. The language was commonplace rather than yogic, yet it still referred to the wisdom within and a higher influence. I closed my eyes and followed the flow.  It felt good.  “Do your own flow now at your own pace,” invited the instructor.

Wait, what?! The music turned way up. My body heated way up. And the roomful of yogis began engaging the poses like they all knew the drill (turns out they did). 

Now this was interesting and a bit distracting. Yet, when I tuned into my breath, the movements, and the pulsing music that sounded like something my kid listened to, I actually discovered a really cool flow. Kind of like a mix between a yoga class and a rave.  It was fun. I was good again. Just as I was getting into the experience, the music was turned down and my mind returned to assess the situation.

I was hot. Really hot. I realized I hadn’t sweated like this since I was in a sweat lodge ceremony many years ago. 

My tiny towel was defenseless against my wet limbs. My sense of well being diminished. Just in time for the next flow series. A new flow series. New loud music. Lots more sweat and a bit of slip and slide.

This was way more challenging and I felt like a novice. Everyone else looked like they were filming a power yoga video. 

Okay, then. This was good. Listening to the instructor as a strategy to distract myself from my overheating body, over beating heart, and straining limbs, I recognized a familiar universal message in her words. I felt my energy flow and my being relax. The body didn’t exactly follow, however it became easier. 

I began to feel like I was on a spiritual retreat as I followed her pointing toward my inner wisdom, a universal source of good, and the unity of the group. 

That was a much better focus than on my mind’s suggestion that I might actually expire and travel heavenward during the class.  As I began to breathe in the heat, I enjoyed the idea of all these people sharing in this message while detoxing and getting fit. I decided I like the gym a bit better because of this yoga program. 

I learned a lot in that yoga class/rave/sweat lodge/spiritual retreat experience. 

I realized I didn't like hot yoga. And so I will return to it in order to discover what my discomfort and the challenge will reveal to me.

 

 I learned I have a lot more strength to build in my body as evidenced by my yogi friends leaping on their mats and flowing with strength and grace. I would like to experience that strength in flow, so I will return to that practice. I loved the loud music as I flowed my body, so perhaps I need to get out and dance more. 

I left a hot mess: breathless, shaky, and unable to do much more than walk slowly on a treadmill in the air conditioning to reorganize my body. “Next time,” I thought, “I’m bringing a bigger towel.” 

I hope you find experiences which take you out of your comfort zone into a space where your heart beats a bit too quickly and your footing is unsteady. And when you notice this, I hope you can stay and lean into the fullness of the experience for it has the potential to teach you something important.

Leaning into discomfort goes against our ancient stress response system which prepares us to fight or flee when the tigers or pirates appear. Or in my case, a challenging hot yoga flow class.

Being aware that life holds discomfort and the possibility for change helps you prepare for the inevitable so you may lean in and discover something.  Train yourself to breathe deeply and remain centered while you become curious, find your edge, and gently travel beyond it. When you stretch into the unfamiliarity of a new, challenging experience, you may unearth how your habitual way of living has kept you tethered, most often without your conscious awareness.

Freeing yourself from inner restrictions reveals the potential for magnificent life.

Invite your inner curious child scientist to explore life beyond the known way of being – beyond your comfort zone. When you lean into the situation at hand, your innate skill, desire, and enthusiasm arise. You discover you are capable of living an extraordinary life and that the world, with its many needs, is waiting for your gifts.   

So, grab a towel and sweat a bit as you allow your higher potential to descend.

Peace be with you and with all.  No exceptions. 

HeartWarming

 News

If yoga isn’t your thing, you can still benefit from a single pose. Known as the corpse pose, Shavasana, typically comes at the end of your yoga practice.  Allowing you to deeply rest as you lie flat on your back.  Arms relaxed on either side of the body with palms facing up.  Your legs sprawled outward with feet apart. Keeping your head and neck aligned. And if you’ve just finished a walk, yoga class, workout, or a day at work, this pose will help you integrate the changes made in your energy, mind, emotions, and body.  Just a few moments in shavasana, paired with conscious, slow breathing, can do wonders to slow the mind and soften the tension in the body. If you fall asleep? That’s okay! You clearly needed a nap.