Co-Creative Mentoring Sheryl Harrell, MAA.B.S.; BCC
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Are You Feeling Nudged to Awaken? What Will You Do With "Your One Wild and Precious life"?

3/20/2021

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Spring has come back again. The Earth is like a child who knows poems by heart.
                                                                         Rainer Maria Rilke
The Spring Equinox is a cosmic event that marks the mid-point

between the Winter and Summer Solstices. It's a time when the

darkness of winter is in balance with the light of summer,

promising longer day-light hours to come as spring blossoms

and awakens new life. Ritually, it's a day to acknowledge the

constriction from which we are emerging and to welcome the

expansion of the light into which we are awakening. It's a

moment to acknowledge and celebrate our Wholeness and

awaken to the Oneness to which all beings are called in service

to the Web of Life.


The Spring Equinox is a time of  Awakening.  Spring represents

a new day.  Life is waking up in the warm sunlight & your spirit

may feel ready to make a fresh start. We're shifting from

Winter's inward-focused time of darkness & incubation – into an

external, outward-focused world of light, activity, and rebirth.


It's a time of transformation and transition, not unlike giving

birth. Spring nurtures you, helps you grow, and guides you on

your soul's path.
 

Can you feel the energy shifting? Can you feel the fresh,

invigorating, inspiring energy of Spring beginning to blow into

your life? The winds of change are blowing, and that can make

things feel a bit unsettled (internally and externally) at this time

and throughout the month.  I've noticed that with the weather

patterns here in northern Colorado and across the US. So far

this month, we've had days when the temperatures were close

to 70, followed by a 2-day blizzard that left nearly two feet of

snow, and then sunny warm days arrived again. I feel that

tumultuous energy inside, as well. From one day to the next,

sometimes moment to moment, my energy shifts; my mood

changes.


The changing seasons always stir up intense energy, but the

transition from Winter to Spring is particularly challenging. For

the most part, I have the sense that something new and

beautiful is emerging. But in the process, I often have a feeling

of being squeezed, as what is getting ready to shift comes into

the light of awareness. I have come to recognize that the

squeeze is a good sign that something new is rising...just like

plump seeds below the soil's surface sprouting new growth.
Picture
Maybe you're like me-- as much as I want to awaken, to

embrace new beginnings,  I also have a part that is fixed to what

I know. And that part is being challenged lately by the quantum

changes that are happening inside and all around each of us. I

feel excitement and more energy as Spring approaches--

pouring over seed and flower catalogs, dreaming about what the

garden will look like, shifting my focus from "cacooning" to

spreading my wings. And, as spring gets underway, my energy

will shift from dreaming to doing. I'm feeling moved and

energized by the possibilities for a fresh start and clarity during

spring and beyond. Not everyone feels that way.


Sometimes, I don't feel that way either. In conversations with

clients who report that this time is difficult for them, almost too

intense, I realize they're looking for ways to ease their journey

into the new season--internally and externally. This is the time to

hold space for that, too. One of our spiritual tasks during this

time is finding ways to balance this "topsy-turvy" energy and

return to or reinforce a sense of equilibrium to the places in life

that are currently feeling out of balance.


Awakening can be messy. Awakening can be chaotic,

sometimes moving forward, sometimes circling back. It's not

linear. It's like an upward, expanding spiral.  Awakening is

something that the we are, a way of being– not something that

we do. Moving to a higher frequency is not all smooth sailing.

We are all acclimating to a new way of being and this may take

some time and the process needs support. Through our daily

self-care practices and rituals, we co-create meaning for

ourselves, we open to new beginnings, to transformation. 

Awakening occurs when we make deep connections with

nature, with Oneness, and our deep down, inner self--our

Wholeness.


This is a potent time to focus on what you want your Awakening

to look like. The seasonal energy is always pushing us to grow.

It's always providing  us with the supportive, nurturing energy

necessary to transform our life.


This is the time to live in alignment with this energy, and to grow

and experience a deeper more meaningful and purposeful life.


Overall, Spring is a joyful time. Everything is coming alive.


Nature is waking up & being reborn.


The same thing is happening within you. Your spirit is coming

alive with hopeful, excited energy. Parts of you are being reborn

& coming alive in ways they never have before. You have the

power & potential to grow into WHATEVER YOU WANT this

year! Especially if you put some really focused attention and

intention into what you want that to be.


The beautiful & empowering thing about Spring is:


Just like in the outer world of gardening, this is when you get to

plant new seeds for your life & set spring intentions, when you

begin to bloom & flower in the outside world, after months of

being inwardly-focused & tucked away inside your house.

(Literally AND figuratively.) This time of year your spirit is bright

& coming alive with new ideas; hopefully you’re feeling inspired

& excited to try new things.


Your work this season is to take care of yourself, clear any

energetic blocks to Awakening, and align your energy with the

seasonal energy. These steps will help you determine which of

your winter dreams you want to focus spring’s powerful growth

energy on. Spring Equinox is the beginning; the Awakening will

continue throughout the spring season.


Spring and summer bring powerful growth energy. If you’re not

clear about where to focus that energy, it may feel chaotic and

overwhelming. Your energy gets pulled in many different

directions and could leave you feeling burned out. When you’re

really clear, calm, and relaxed about where you want to see

growth, you have the power to transform your life.


Here are three simple, powerful steps (a fourth one, an

Awakening Exercise, can be found below) for supporting your

Spring journey toward Awakening:


1. Self-care: One of the easiest ways to incorporate self-care

when you feel the intensity of the seasonal energy (or any time

you feel pulled from your center) is through connecting with your

breathing.


“Whenever your mind becomes scattered, use your breath as a 

means to take hold of your mind again.” Thich Nhat Hanh 


Try this breathing meditation every morning for the next week

(and beyond, if you choose) and anytime you want to regain

your balance:


5-Minute Breathing Meditation*:


    I. Before you begin this meditation, think of an area of your

life that feels out of balance.

  
   II. Set an intention to breathe love and gratitude into this area

of your life.

  
  III. Set a “gentle” timer, i.e., a quiet ring tone on your phone, for

5 minutes.

    
  IV. Take slow, deep breaths. As you breathe in, repeat to

yourself: “Breathe in gratitude”. “Breathe out love”. Do this for

three breaths.


  V. Then switch and repeat to yourself: “Breathe in love”.

“Breathe out gratitude.” Do this for three breaths.


 VI. Continue breathing easily and deeply for the remainder of

the 5-minutes.



2. Clearing energetic blocks: In order to move forward, it’s

necessary to take clear, inspired actions.  These clear and

inspired actions are sometimes hidden by old conflicts,

beliefs, and energetic patterns that need to be cleared

(remember: Awakening is Messy). You won’t be able to take

inspired actions and create the life you want to live without

clarity.
 

I love clarity; it’s the start of everything.


That's why I love  EFT/Tapping  so much. I know I mention this

technique often in my blogs: Because it works for clearing

limiting beliefs and inner conflicts that keep us stuck! I've seen

amazing results for myself and my clients since I found

EFT/Tapping. Of course it's taken dedication to doing the work

and lots of introspection and tapping, but since I started

incorporating EFT/ Tapping, along with meditation and other

tools, the transformation in my life and the lives of my clients

astounds me.


Check out Carol Look's coaching program: Clarity in Action.


Carol is an EFT/Tapping Master who has decades of experience

helping clients show up for themselves by teaching them to

clear behaviors and fears that get in the way of clarity.
Picture
3.  Aligning your energy:  I've co-created a spring equinox Co-

Creative Mandalas Oracle Card spread & journal prompts to

help you connect with your own inner wisdom,  gain insight into

your deeper thoughts & feelings, and align your energy with the

seasonal energy. The mandalas, messages, and affirmations

support your understanding of where to direct your energy so

you get the most impact of spring's powerful growth energy.
Spring Equinox 2021 Oracle Card Reading
File Size: 423 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File
Your power to grow & evolve, to Awaken and realize your winter

dreams–is reborn in spring. This is a time of pure potential.

Anything is possible in your life right now. This Co-Creative

Mandala, "Awakening", from photographs of daffodils (symbols

of rebirth and hope, new life and resilience, positivity and joy

and an appreciation for being alive)  reminds us to be open to

possibilities, to be curious, to discover what is easy, playful, and

unexpected. Your work right now is to connect deeply with your

dreams. What do you want to nurture & bring to life this season?

When you are really clear about what you want to bring to life,

you have the power to channel the potent energy of spring &

create whatever you want in your life.
Picture
Everything and everyone has in themselves a hidden wholeness, a potential for growth, a dream of themselves.
                                                                            Dr. Rachel Ramen
Awakening Exercise:

In this simple, yet powerful exercise, I invite you to celebrate

Awakening and feel supported by your inner and outer

resources.  Honor this powerful time of rebirth, new beginnings,

and possibilities.


Intention:

This is a special opportunity to reflect on the powerful energy,

within you and as it's reflected in nature. The Equinoxes are a

time of the perfect balance of light and darkness on Earth. And

this powerful energy brings balance into any parts of your life &

your spirit that are feeling a bit turned upside down.


Give yourself plenty of time without interruptions to dive

deeply into this exercise. Meditate, journal, create and bless   

your sacred space.


Make this exercise your own. Invest your time and attention.


Don’t rush.
 

As you sit quietly in your space, light a candle that welcomes

'Awakening'. 


In a moment, when you are done reading through the

instructions, write everything that the Co-Creative

Mandala-'Awakening' makes you think of. Write how you feel

when you look at it. Write about what the associated chakras

represent (sacral, solar plexus, heart, and crown) and how that

might be applicable to your journey toward Oneness this year.


Close your eyes. Bring your awareness to your breath; just be

with your breath. Take a deep breath in. Breathe out. Take

another deep breath in. Breathe out. Notice the sensations as

you exhale—without judgement.  Feel the body breathing. Bring

your body into stillness.


Open your eyes and bring your attention to the 'Awakening'

mandala; allow the mandala energy to fill your heart; be with

whatever is there.


Invest a few minutes toward allowing the 'Awakening' energy to

flow to and through your body.  Imagine that energy bursting

through your crown chakra and extending far into the heavens.


Imagine the 'Awakening' energy flowing through you and down

deep into the earth. Imagine it radiating from your heart and

extending out in front of you and behind you. Imagine the

'Awakening' energy is a radiant ball that encircles you.


Now, sit with this energy for a few minutes.

 
What about the 'Awakening' mandala captures your attention?


Notice and Wonder--Something in me is feeling...


I wonder what it wants me to know?
 

Relax into your body and its quietness. Be with the energy, be

present, listen.


Here's the ritual:


1. Begin by reflecting on the following questions:

Take out a piece of paper and answer these questions:

    What new plans & ideas did you dream about over winter?

    What new inspirations do you feel alive with?

    What do you want to start this spring?

    What great things do you want to achieve?



2. Read what you've written:

Read out loud what you wrote in response to the questions

above.



3. Ask for support:

In whatever words come to you, ask for support from the

Universe/God/Goddess/Guides–whatever Higher Power calls to

you in this moment.


Ask the spring energy to infuse your dreams with life.



 4. Give thanks:

Thank whatever Higher Power you call on, for bringing your

dreams to life. Say thanks as though your dream has already

come true. (Because it HAS, you’re simply calling it into your

life.)


Don’t worry about getting the words perfect, or saying the exact

right thing. Just say whatever comes to your mind & your heart.

It’s okay if it feels awkward & clunky. (Remember: Awakening is

messy and takes practice!)


5. Reread your words often:

As often as possible, read your words during the first days of

spring.  Then, release your dreams to the Universe, your higher

power, and trust that vision is  being drawn into your life.


Continue to do this practice as often as you are called to during

the spring months.

May you trust your unfolding journey.
May you feel supported.
May you allow you purpose to unfold.
May the portal of your heart open.
May you Awaken to Oneness.

I'm wishing you a smooth transition from winter to spring.


Peace and joy to your awakening heart!
Picture
*Adapted from a meditation practice by Starlight Meditation (www.starlight-meditation.com)
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The World is as You Are

2/28/2021

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Identifying the cause of suffering takes stillness
and a reflective mind.
                                                       Byron Katie
Picture
The start of a new year often prompts us to choose a word as

an orienting force for the year ahead. Usually, that word is a

positive vibration for who you want to become, such as

“intentional,” “purposeful,” “kind,” “compassionate,” etc. At Co-

Creative Mandalas we invest our attention and our intention

toward allowing the vibration of each mandala to have a voice.

As many of you know, the mandalas we co-create arise from

intuition and as they are created, their individual vibration

emerges for each month and collectively point us toward the

vibration for the complete yearly cycle. The vibration of

‘Oneness’ chose us for the 2021 cycle of the Grand Mandala.

After all the changes and challenges to our personal,

professional, and spiritual lives that came with 2020, ‘Oneness’

seems very appropriate. What is your vibration for 2021? Why

did you choose that vibration?
In January, we welcomed the vibration of ‘Silence’; be still

and listen, quiet the mind, trust nature’s process working

through us. So, a quick check-in....how is your ‘Silence’

practice going so far?


On a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being--I’m fully in my body, fully

energized, focused and firing on all cylinders-- where are you

right now? If you’re not 10 out of 10 then, where's the rest of

you?


Or maybe you notice that you have more moments of ‘Silence’

than before....and if so, can you see that as a small shift?!! Cuz

it is!!!


And if you haven't gotten into the habit yet of tapping into

‘Silence’...that's okay, too! If creating new habits was easy then

you would make a decision and – VIOLA!! - it would be done!


But we all know that doesn't happen easily!


Until that day comes be gentle with yourself, set up reminders to

be still and listen, take a breath, notice  the things that hijack

your well-being and the things that help you grow. Put a sticky

note on your bathroom mirror or set up notifications on your

phone to remind you to BREATHE. Do whatever it takes until it's

a habit.


For February, we welcomed the vibration of ‘Reflection’. I love

the multiple meanings of 'Reflection':


  1. The act of self-evaluation, the inner process of understanding yourself and your Self and becoming more conscious of who you are, your values, your hopes, your dreams, your thoughts, feelings, and results of your actions.
  2. Clearing your mind so, like a polished mirror, it reveals your true nature and the consequences of actions that both hinder and promote growth.
  3. Seeing the world as you are, your mind is the source of what you see “out there”.

Reflection is a path of self-empowerment. It’s a journey through

which we take responsibility for how we think and act, and

discover deeper insights regarding what we do and do not want

in our lives.


Spiritual reflection is any form of personal spiritual practice –

mental reflection, inner stillness -silence, and deep listening

practices. It is the recollection, the practice of, the continual

awareness of 'Oneness'.


You know if you're deeply listening in an inner-connected way

when you:


  • Love your whole self, including the layers of yourself that you see as flawed.   
  • Pay attention to your experience in a different way–without anticipation or judgment–to gain a new perspective.    
  • Understand that “love’s not a feeling, it’s an ability” (Steve Carroll from “Dan in Real Live”) and it takes practice.
  • Reflect on the love others have given you, and how it has shaped your life


You likely already incorporate ‘Reflection’ practices in your life

that support deep listening and connection to ‘Oneness’

including meditation, Yoga, breath-work, journalling, and the

many energy modalities. Michael Gross, author of The

Wingman’s Guide to Positivity,offers simple practices that

use our minds and inner-resources to live the life of our

choosing.These “just a minute a day” mindset changes are

easily incorporated into your daily routine:

  • Eliminate the shoulds, shouldn'ts, can'ts, don'ts
  • Celebrate others' joy, good fortune, happiness
  • Congratulate yourself, give yourself a gold star
  • If you're hanging on by a thread, love the thread
  • "A day without laughter is a wasted day." Charlie Chaplin


Bottom line, catch the negative thoughts before you go down

the rabbit hole. Allow the feelings to come up so they can

dissolve. When you're in a place of uncertainty, doubt or, fear,

here's a tool you can try for turning toward ‘Oneness’:


Come up with a mantra, an affirmation, you can say to yourself

every time you become aware that you’re traveling down the

rabbit hole. Saying the mantra will stop negative thoughts in

their tracks.


My mantra is "may I know peace". Feel free to use it too or say

something that resonates more with you. A phrase that shifts

your attention toward your desired feeling and stops the story

you're telling yourself, and reminds you of ‘Oneness’.


This is the time to reflect on the ways that the changing season

effects us, our attitudes, our energy, and our focus.  On

February 1st, we reached the mid-point between winter and

spring. At the time I thought, “only half way through winter?!”

Now, there are just twenty days until the first day of spring.  This

is an important time for treating yourself with great love and

compassion, to deeply nurture yourself, and to spend some

lovely reflection time just being in the gentle calm and stillness.

And, for connecting with nature’s “emerging design”.
Picture
Have you noticed the subtle signs of the Earth starting to wake

up? Even though it may still be quite cold (at least where I am in

Colorado), you may start to see glimmers of nature waking up.

The old maple tree out front is starting to bud and the grape

hyacinth are poking their bright green leaves out of the ground.

What shifts are you noticing? Are there any signs of new life

sprouting outside where you live?


Do you see any signs of new beginnings stirring in your own

life?


Spring is coming, and bringing new life & new beginnings. But in

order to begin something new, something has to change. To

change, you have to leave behind what is safe & comfortable.

You have to gently nudge yourself to grow in new ways.


Following nature’s lead, this is the time to allow inspiration to stir

within you; a call to allow your inner transformations to come

forth so you can grow into the highest and best version of

yourself in 2021. Danu Forest says it best here.

To call in inspiration is to begin to see our life infused with spirit, to discover a new or renewed vision for greater creativity on all levels. To call in healing is to resolve the things that hold us back or limit our potential. We all have parts of our lives and bodies that need healing, and to give this aspect of ourselves a boost at this time of the year sets us up for a more empowered and happier future.
                                                        Danu Forest, The Magical Year
It’s no accident you’re here now – awakened, ready to serve

humanity with your message and your offerings and your

presence. Are you feeling the change that has already begun for

2021? History is being made right here and right now.


There is only question to ask yourself...“What is my part in

it? ”What do I choose to do to co-create a new beginning for a

better future for myself and for the world"?


One of our individual and collective spiritual tasks over winter is

to integrate everything we learned during the past year. That's

one of the main reasons for winter's rest; to reflect on and

absorb the wisdom from all our experiences in 2020. This Co-

Creative Mandala--'Reflection' from a photo of violas (they are

just emerging) reminds us to invest the time necessary for self-

reflection on the past as we move toward the future.
Picture
Inner and outer energy are rising. Just like everything in nature, you have a unique pattern of wholeness.
Reflect on this awareness
and allow your full potential to emerge.

Reflection Exercise:

In this simple, yet powerful exercise, I invite you to celebrate

Reflection and feel supported by your inner and outer

resources.  Honor this powerful time of rest, rejuvenation, and

healing.


Intention:

This is a special opportunity to reflect on the emerging energy,

within you and as it's reflected in nature. Spring isn't quite here,

and yet, there are signs of what is on the horizon. We have a

few days before the first day of spring, so it's important to invest

this time toward letting go of anything that is holding us back

and open ourselves to our emerging potential.


Give yourself plenty of time without interruptions to dive

deeply into this exercise. Meditate, journal, create and bless   

your sacred space.


Make this exercise your own. Invest your time and attention.


Don’t rush.
 

As you sit quietly in your space, light a candle that welcomes

'Reflection'. 


In a moment, when you are done reading through the

instructions, write everything that the Co-Creative

Mandala-'Reflection' makes you think of. Write how you feel

when you look at it. Write about what the associated chakras

represent (solar plexus, heart, and crown) and how that might

be applicable to your journey toward Oneness this year.


Close your eyes. Bring your awareness to your breath; just be

with your breath. Take a deep breath in. Breathe out. Take

another deep breath in. Breathe out. Notice the sensations as

you exhale—without judgement.  Feel the body breathing. Bring

your body into stillness.


Open your eyes and bring your attention to the 'Reflection'

mandala; allow the mandala energy to fill your heart; be with

whatever is there.


Invest a few minutes toward allowing the 'Reflection' energy to

flow to and through your body.  Imagine that energy bursting

through your crown chakra and extending far into the heavens.


Imagine the 'Reflection' energy flowing through you and down

deep into the earth. Imagine it radiating from your heart and

extending out in front of you and behind you. Imagine the

'Reflection' energy is a radiant ball that encircles you.


Now, sit with this energy for a few minutes.

 
What about the 'Reflection' mandala captures your attention?


Notice and Wonder--Something in me is feeling...


I wonder what it wants me to know?
 

Relax into your body and its quietness. Be with the energy, be

present, listen.


Here's the ritual:

1. Take out a piece of paper and answer this question:

     What challenges did I face last year?



2. Then thank all the items on the list for having been with

     you.


3. Next, answer this question:

    What lessons did I learn from those challenges?

   
4. Next, answer this question:

    What wisdom did I gather during my inward journey this

    winter?


5. Now write down and speak out loud the word, the vibration

    you choose as you move into spring. Why did you choose this

    vibration?


As you reflect on the end of winter's rest, appreciate the

cycles of nature.   This is the time to feel the inspiration and

potential rising within. What will this emerging energy bring for

you, for all beings, for the planet?


Is this the year you decided to remember your 'Oneness'?


Thank you for being on this journey. And for continuing to give

the world the gift of your best self.


Peace and joy to your seeking heart,
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Are You Listening to the Sounds of Silence?

1/20/2021

0 Comments

 
Allow nature to teach you stillness.
                                                                                    Eckhart Tolle
Here's to another year of exploring our inner beauty, the

connection we have with each other, and our connection to

nature.


Full disclosure: I started writing this blog at the end of 2020. As

sometimes happens, I just wasn't ready to finish writing even

though I had a lighthearted newsletter sketched in my mind

about welcoming 2021 with purpose and intention. Which, BTW,

I believe is a wonderful way to begin each moment, day, week,

month, or year.


But, an unseen--yet felt--force held me back. As the first days of

the New Year slipped by, the reason for my hesitation revealed

itself. January 6th happened.  I wondered how I could possibly

not address what occurred on that day in our nation’s capitol?

Maybe like you, I felt it before it happened and now I'm still

processing it – cognitively and emotionally and spiritually – and I

imagine that I will be for some time to come.


Frankly, I'm walking a tightrope. In the past, I've made best

efforts at writing about ways we can remember our wholeness

by intentionally putting our attention on our inner life (including

ALL of our feelings), cultivating love and compassion for

ourselves and others,  and appreciating the ways that the

natural cycles support our evolution of consciousness.  At the

same time, I understand that everything and everyone is

connected and collective consciousness impacts our lives in

seen and unseen ways.  I've done my best to live my intention

to be loving, tolerant, and compassionate--toward myself and

others.


Lately, I've noticed how challenging that is.  


That's when I lean into practices that are so crucial for my self

growth.  


I have both "formal" practices (meditation and chanting) that I

do twice a day. And, "informal" techniques (EFT/Tapping,

HeartMath, and Metta Meditation)  that I use when I forget

love's presence and experience the difficult emotions when "life

happens".


When I do any of these practices I notice in the midst of all that's

happening, and while I'm experiencing "those" feelings (and the

"shoulds" and "shouldn'ts"),  just how quickly the critical voice

softens.  When I accept the feelings (and myself for having

them), I feel more stable, feel less volatile, my mood improves,

and I'm more willing to accept others and to accept what is. If

there's ever been a time when loving and accepting ourselves

and others is needed, it's now.


What practices are you discovering or re-discovering for

remembering that you are safe, whole, complete, loving and

lovable?


There may be many difficult weeks and months ahead, but I can

see the light at the end of the tunnel--and it's not the train

coming toward me. I can’t help but feel the New Year is

vibrating with the potential for individual and collective change.


I recently read the following and felt comforted by the reminders
:

3 Timeless Truths For The New Year


1. Every challenge can be an opportunity for growth and self- 

    discovery. Stay curious.

2. Sometimes, it’s necessary to release what one has to make

    way for something better and brighter.  Use your creative

    force for relishing the experience of softening and letting go.

3. No matter what’s going on around us, we are always

    in charge of what’s going on inside us. Align with truth and

    re-imagine the world and yourself from a space beyond fear

    and separation. You can't move forward if you're in fear. In

    many cultures the peacock is a symbol of fearlessness,

    openness and acceptance. When threatened, a peacock

    responds by showing its most marvelous beauty. Find and

    extend your most marvelous beauty.

Picture
Are you feeling a bit at odds within yourself right now? Is

part of you excited and ready to move forward with your

intentions for 2021? Does part of you want to crawl into a

cave and hibernate? All of the above? You're not alone!


This is the thing about the winter season and the New

Year (and particularly this year): We begin the year

(some of us), in the coldest, darkest time when

everything in nature is quietly resting. And, yet, we're

pulled toward getting on with our resolutions, our goals,

our intentions for the New Year (because we're SO OVER

last year!).


Meanwhile...The feminine aspect of us is

saying….wait….sit down… close your eyes….connect

inward.  Nature is quietly preparing every living thing

(including us) for the months ahead. This is the time to

create through your heart and receive.  


This is the rhythm of the universe: Day, night. In-breath,

out-breath. Wake and sleep. Traditional cultures honor

this rhythm. They set aside time to rest, time to pray, time

to heal.


Our society tends to put a premium on action, at the

expense of rest.


This is the time to rest. To rejuvenate. To invest the time

and space that you REALLY need to be still, to listen,

and appreciate Silence. Like seeds planted in nourishing

soil, your vision gathers energy from inner and outer

Silence. This is the time to trust nature's process

working through you.

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Many of you know that all Co-Creative Mandalas begin with

photographs of flowers and plants we grow or see in nature. 

Every year as we're co-creating the cover for the mandala

calendar a theme emerges. Each monthly mandala reflects the

cycle of nature, and is a pathway that culminates in the "great

mandala" for the year. The theme for each year supports the

feeling AND the intention for each month. For 2020 we were

guided toward "Luminosity"--as a pathway for honoring

our inner light and the Source of everything.  Luminosity is both

our inner Light and the source of Light that uplifts and amplifies

everyone's unique path toward more joy, well-being, and peace.


The same process is true for the 2021 theme: "Oneness". 

Before the inspiration revealed itself, we hadn't thought

specifically about Oneness. As the months since that inspiration

surfaced, I've come to realize that never before in my lifetime

has it been more important to focus attention on Oneness.


Oneness is at the heart of many spiritual traditions.  One of the

most common experiences of the evolution of consciousness is

the feeling of Oneness. This state of being can be experienced

as a feeling that everything, everyone is part of a whole, we all

come from one common source. I've experienced Oneness

when enjoying a sunset over the ocean and felt the infinite

vastness of the universe, or while tending to flowers in the

garden and "time stood still". Others experience it when they

see their newborn child for the first time. Those glimpses of

Oneness are hard to describe and sustain because we live in

duality. Oneness is both an inner experience and the source of

everything.


We are individual life forms each seeking our individual

expressions. Behind this appearance of separation is the

essential nature that exists in all beings. The concept of

tapping into Oneness is a powerful tool for transforming

ourselves and our world because we remember goodness, love

and compassion--for ourselves and each other.  This is like

each cell taking care of itself, but also working in cooperation

with others, having the health of the whole system as its goal.

It is a pathway that honors individual and collective Oneness,

our Wholeness. From this perspective--we want for each other

what we want for ourselves.

It really boils down to this: that all life is interrelated. We are all caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied together into a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly. We are made to live together because of the interrelated structure of reality... Before you finish eating breakfast in the morning, you’ve depended on more than half the world. This is the way our universe is structured, this is its interrelated quality. We aren’t going to have peace on Earth until we recognize the basic fact of the interrelated structure of all reality.
              Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. from his last Christmas sermon       
And, Depak Chopra says, "Oneness is the potential for all

sounds but is, itself silent. In every moment of existence, the

whole of creation is constantly emerging from the silence of

Oneness...When we slip into the spaces between our thoughts,

we experience Oneness".  When you meditate you access the

Silence at the source, the experience of Oneness. This is a path

by which our awareness settles to quieter levels of thinking, into

the Silence of Oneness.


Tapping into Silence is one of the keys to sustaining the clarity

and focus necessary for realizing your dreams and goals.

During meditation, you quiet your mind. Afterwards, you take

action to realize your dreams. One of my teachers described

this process as "rest and activity"--deep rest and Silence during

meditation that relieves stress from the mind, body and spirit so

that when we emerge we live our full potential.  Of course this

takes practice.


In his blog post, "What is Oneness", Roger Gabriel offers eight

simple, practical, and profound suggestions for living life in

the Silence of Oneness.


Throughout 2021, I'll be following the pathway of coming home

to Oneness that is found in our Co-Creative Mandala calendar.

Each month offers a new mandala that expresses a quality

which supports your journey toward remembering Oneness. The

mandalas in this blog may be the same as the ones found in the

calendar. Or, like this month, I've co-created a different mandala

that expresses the quality of "Silence".   


This Co-Creative Mandala--"Silence" is from a photograph of

pine, which symbolizes focus and loving kindness, and snow,

which symbolizes peace and gentleness. It reminds us of the

importance of resting, silence, being gentle and loving toward

ourselves, and allowing our vision for the year to come into

focus. It's associated with the heart, throat, and crown chakras.

It's a reminder to pause and listen and invite Divine wisdom in. It

can help you stay in touch with your inner wisdom and check in

with your higher self.

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Silence is essential.
We need silence,
just as much as we need air,
just as much as plants need light.
If our minds are crowded
with words and thoughts,
there is no space for us.
                                                                        Thich Nhat Hanh
Silence Exercise:*

In this simple, yet powerful exercise, I invite you to celebrate

Silence and feel supported by your inner and outer

resources.  Honor this powerful time of rest, rejuvenation, and

healing.


Intention:

This is a special opportunity to connect with the stillness, the

Silence, within you, to reflect on the year just passed and

imagine what the light of the New Year holds in store. We can

dream peacefully knowing that deep within the Earth and within

our hearts, something beautiful rests and is nurtured... waiting to

be born in the Spring.


Give yourself plenty of time without interruptions to dive

deeply into this exercise. Meditate, journal, create and bless   

your sacred space.


Make this exercise your own. Invest your time and attention.


Don’t rush.
 

As you sit quietly in your space, light a candle that welcomes

Silence. 


In a moment, when you are done reading through the

instructions, write everything that the Co-Creative

Mandala--"Silence" makes you think of. Write how you feel

when you look at it. Write about what the associated chakras

represent and how that might be applicable to your journey 

toward Oneness this year.


Close your eyes. Bring your awareness to your breath; just be

with your breath. Take a deep breath in. Breathe out. Take

another deep breath in. Breathe out. Notice the sensations as

you exhale—without judgement.  Feel the body breathing. Bring

your body into stillness.


Open your eyes and bring your attention to the Silence

mandala; allow the mandala energy to fill your heart; be with

whatever is there.


Invest a few minutes toward allowing the Silence energy to

flow to and through your body.  Imagine that energy bursting

through your crown chakra and extending far into the heavens.


Imagine the Silence energy flowing through you and down

deep into the earth. Imagine it radiating from your heart and

extending out in front of you and behind you. Imagine the

Silence energy is a radiant ball that encircles you.


Now, sit with this energy for a few minutes.

 
What about the Silence mandala captures your attention?


Notice and Wonder--Something in me is feeling...


I wonder what it wants me to know?
 

Relax into your body and its quietness. Be with the energy, be

present, listen.


Here's the ritual:

1. Take out a piece of paper and write a list of everything that

    you want to let go of from 2020. These can include habits,

    behaviors, limiting beliefs, fears, physical conditions, feelings

    of resentment, conflicts, or thoughts that don't  serve you.


2. Then thank all the items on the list for having been with

     you and for all the lessons learned and ways you grew from

     them.


3. Next make a clear statement of letting go such as: "I now let

    go of all these things and anything else that no longer serves

    me and my vision and intention and they ways I want to feel

    in 2021."


4. If you have a fireplace, wood stove, etc. throw the paper in

    to be burned. If you don't have a fireplace,  CAREFULLY burn

    the list in a large stainless steel bowl or in a sink.


5. Write down and then speak out loud everything you're

    grateful for from the past year -- the joys, celebrations,

   accomplishments, lessons learned, and "growth" experiences.


6. And now it's time to call in what you'd like to bring forward

    in 2021—First, write down how you want to FEEL throughout

    this upcoming year. It's the FEELING of it all that will take you

    far. Then acknowledge everything you welcome into your 
 
    vision of the New Year--the intentions, beliefs, behaviors,  

    relationships, and everything you will embrace. Finally, speak

    out loud what you've written down.

  


As we reflect on 2020 and continue into the New Year,

appreciate of the cycles of nature.   This is the time for a pause,

a time for rest and renewal, and then we get to start anew

wherever our paths lead us.  Please take some time now to take

care of yourself.  You deserve it. Your presence is needed to

keep transforming your life and the lives of all beings.


Thank you for being on this journey. And for continuing to give

the world the gift of your best self.


Wishing you a year of health, abundance, joy, Oneness, and

remembering the light that you truly are.


Peace and joy to your seeking heart,
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* Adapted from https://www.lauripointer.com/
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Are you ready to embody powerful, healing Winter Solstice Light?

12/21/2020

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Luminosity...like touching the very heart
of your being, your reality, your very essence
without a shadow of doubt.
It is a radiant, shining core of Presence-
Awareness, of Existence itself.
                                                                  Angelo Gerangelo

The holidays are upon us! This is the Season of Light: The

Season of Shining: The Season of Dreaming: The Season of

Hoping: The Season of Healing.


If ever there was a time when we're longing for Luminosity, for

peace on earth, and for goodwill toward all, it is this year. It is

right now.


Humanity has been celebrating the turning of the earth and the

shift of seasons from our earliest days. The Winter Solstice is a

point of change for us, a marker of time passing, and a

celebration of both the gifts of the darkness and the return of the

sunlight.  Since ancient times, communities across the world

have gathered to honor and celebrate the changing of the

seasons. The Winter Solstice represents the ending of one

cycle… and the beginning of another. Celebratory moments like

the Solstice play a vital role in helping revitalize community spirit

and affirm health and well-being for the coming year. Celebrated

since ancient times, across cultures worldwide, Winter Solstice

(and other festivals of light) is an auspicious time of year when

the stars (and this year, the planets, too ) align in such a way

that the Light of the cosmos shines on the Earth - and our

consciousness - in a healing pattern for transformation.  This

potent concentration of Light brings Luminosity to our mind,

body, and spirit and guides us toward awakening and

remembering our wholeness ("holy-ness") during this powerful

and sacred time. Aligning with the amazing and transformational

energies offers an opportune and miraculous moment for a

profound energetic shift from darkness to light.
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What rests in this darkness? When the darkness comes, the

stars begin to shine. Embracing the darkness, even dancing in

it, is an essential part of birthing the Light.  And in so doing, we

take a monumental step forward by mindfully shifting our

consciousness toward a fresh start in 2021.  As we lean into the

rich darkness at this cold, dark time of year we are tuning into

one of the natural cycles that support the easiest, most powerful

personal growth work we can do – It's Nature. It's the way our

energy & our lives are SUPPOSED to flow. We're just

remembering what this natural rhythm is. And honoring what we

need for remembering Luminosity--the Light that is both

experienced within and manifested in the world.


Many plants, like tulips, daffodils, iris, and apple trees, would not

blossom in the springtime were it not for this period of

dormancy. This is a period of true transformation. Are you ready

to be revitalized, refreshed and renewed during this amazing

time?


For over fifty years I've been celebrating Winter Solstice. I've

always loved those celebrations, the candles, the moments of

reflection, and the hopefulness that the rituals inspire. I invite

your to celebrate this time by honoring the darkness and

embodying this pristine and sacred Light and co-creating a

Season of Light for yourself, filled with empowerment, hope, and

beautiful dreams for your future. We have an opportunity to go

inward - both individually and collectively - and embody the

Light and healing frequencies available at this time, to heal

ourselves - and the planet - with sacred Luminosity and love.


We are moving toward fulfilling the greatest experience on Earth

– that of awakening to our Wholeness. Being with the darkness,

the silence, and discovering what lies ahead takes courage.

Your reflections may reveal what's necessary for the journey

toward the future. Open your heart and consciousness to the

experience of the Light pouring into the Earth and share in

celebration of the collective Truth that we are all Whole. Even

though we may be separated physically from one another - we

are one in Spirit.


Both darkness and daylight are critical to nature, and to our

inner and outer growth. Life cannot exist without both, without

the moon and the sun! The darkness offers rest, dreams, an

exploration of our shadow side, while the sun brings warmth, a

reawakening of life, and hope for another day. Wholeness

requires that we honor both.


I love Charlie Murphy's (1953-2016) 1984 song, “Light is

Returning". It's a perfect reminder that even in the darkest

time, there is hope. Charlie Murphy was a folk singer/songwriter,

a pioneering musician who promoted gay rights and challenged

sexism. His song is often used during celebrations around the

winter solstice. The lyrics speak to any person or any society

facing difficult times and still remain hopeful for a better future.


Here’s a simple journaling exercise you can use to

acknowledge the darkness and the light  (Adapted from a

presentation by Collette Barron Reid):



Honoring the Darkness

1. Meditate on what the darkness means to you, and the gifts it

brings. We have the opportunity to turn within, to “hibernate” in

our cocoons of warmth as we wait for the sunlight to return.


2. Explore the concept of rest. Without some quiet deep rest, we

would have no dreams, no growth, no gestation period. Rest

might look different for all of us, but it always involves

disconnecting from the pressures to “produce.”


Journal about what rest feels like to you. Consider what you

want to leave behind at the end of 2020.  


Welcoming the Light

3. Meditate on what sunlight means to you, and the gifts it

brings. With the return of the longer daylight, we’re reminded of

the life force within every living being. I love this quote from

NASA: “The Sun warms our seas, stirs our atmosphere,

generates our weather patterns, and gives energy to the

growing green plants that provide the food and oxygen for life

on Earth.” With the growing daylight, our spirits and energy rise!


4. Explore the concept of light. The Sun is the source of all

energy. We appreciate its power more when we’ve been without

it! Light candles or turn on the holiday lights that may be in your

home this season. Let it be a reminder of the coming return of

the Sun, and the gifts it brings.


Journal about the connection of daylight and hope. How can you

keep your light lit in the darkness?  Start dreaming about what

you want to create and invite into your life in 2021. What are

ways you can renew yourself by grounding and creating sacred

space for co-creating a world you envision?


As the Great Round turns, the celebrations along the way

invite us to pay attention to the natural cycles taking place

around us- and reflect on how they deeply influence and

enhance our lives as members of the natural world. During this

Solstice season, we have an opportunity to pay close attention

to how the lowest point of the Sun draws us inward.  Winter

Solstice rituals are often associated with release and letting go,

taking time to reflect on the past year, and welcoming the new.


This Co-Creative Mandala "Luminosity" from a photograph of a

dahlia reminds us that we are both the Light and and the

recipients of the Light. We all have an amazing light within. It's

time to let that light shine brightly to bring healing, love, and

Light to the world by acknowledging your presence and

purpose.
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The gift of light we thankfully take
But not shall it be alone for our sake
The more we give light
The one to the other
It shines and it spreads
and it glows still further
Until every spark by friends set aflame
Until every heart with joy to proclaim
In the depths of our souls
a shining sun glows.
                                                       Anonymous
Luminosity Exercise:

In this simple, yet powerful exercise, I invite you to celebrate

Luminosity and feel supported by your inner and outer

resources.  Honor this powerful time of darkness and return of

Light.


Intention:

1. Connect with and call in Luminosity as a vehicle for

transformation and letting go of all unwanted energies.


2. Infuse your body, mind, and spirit with the energies of

Luminosity for the purpose of allowing shadows to transform

into radiant light.


Give yourself plenty of time without interruptions to dive

deeply into this exercise. Meditate, journal, create and bless   

your sacred space.


Make this exercise your own. Invest your time and attention.


Don’t rush.
 

As you sit quietly in your space, light a candle that welcomes

Luminosity; "the state of producing or reflecting bright light,

appearing to shine".  What does Luminosity mean to you?


Close your eyes. Bring your awareness to your breath; just be

with your breath. Take a deep breath in. Breathe out. Take

another deep breath in. Breathe out. Notice the sensations as

you exhale—without judgement.  Feel the body breathing. Bring

your body into stillness.


Open your eyes and bring your attention to the Luminosity

mandala; allow the mandala energy to fill your heart; be with

whatever is there.


Invest a few minutes toward allowing the Luminosity energy to

flow to and through your body.  Imagine that energy bursting

through your crown chakra and extending far into the heavens.


Imagine the Luminosity energy flowing through you and down

deep into the earth. Imagine it radiating from your heart and

extending out in front of you and behind you. Imagine the

Luminosity energy is a radiant ball that encircles you.


Now, sit with this energy for a few minutes.


What about the Luminosity mandala captures your attention?


Notice and Wonder--Something in me is feeling...


I wonder what it wants me to know?
 

Relax into your body and its quietness. Be with the energy, be

present, listen:


1. Speak aloud a prayer or intention that releases any and all

unwanted energies, beliefs, or thoughts that no longer serve so

that they may be dissolved and changed into the radiant light of

Luminosity. Enter into stillness, accept what is, and release

the burdens of this year so you can be a light in the world. Draw

in "Luminosity" into your body by cupping your hands  and

passing them over your entire body, from crown to feet, saying:

“I am a keeper of Luminosity".


2. Sit in silence and stillness for some time with Luminosity,

and visualize its warmth and light radiating out from your heart,

encompassing the whole Earth. See yourself as a burst of light

in the darkness. Appreciate the deep desire to connect with the

sacred – within you and in all of humanity. You have the power t

to create real change in the world. And this moment is requiring

that you step into your purpose, to be a radiant, luminous sun

that brings light to the darkness.


To the outside world it doesn’t look like anything’s happening at

this time of year. Life is still and quiet; there’s no movement.

And yet … deep in the dark, a quiet transformation is

happening. This is the transformation you and all of nature, are

undergoing throughout winter. . The daylight hours are short; the

trees are bare. Everything appears dead or frozen. You don’t

see anything meaningful happening. But in the darkness, hidden

inside or deep underground, a magical transformation is

occurring.


The winter solstice is the moment when the Earth begins tilting

back toward the sun and the days begin getting longer. In the

natural world, this season is the beginning of a new cycle of

growth. That makes this moment a really hopeful, inspiring time

on the Great Round; it's a time of infinite possibilities. The new

spark that is lit on the winter solstice, this tiny flame of

inspiration, has the potential to grow into anything.


The winter solstice is nature's reminder, that even when life is a

its darkest – as dark as it can get – the tiniest spark of light, the

faintest glimmer of Luminosity, of hope remain and will blossom

and grow into something beautiful next spring.


Wishing you joy and peace during this Season of Hope and

Light.  
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Integrating Thanks and Giving: The Source of Abundance

11/30/2020

1 Comment

 
Gratitude is immersing ourselves in the greatness of life. It is the foundation of joy and satisfaction. Julio Olalla
This is the season of gratitude, a beautiful opportunity to

express thankfulness for all the big and little things that are

good in your life at this moment. It’s no coincidence that many

cultures marked this season with rituals and feasts of

thanksgiving! This is the time to express gratitude for our inner

and outer bounty, and begin to plan what you will plant when

spring returns (more on that later at the Winter Solstice). Taking

time to cultivate a gratitude practice, whether by keeping a

gratitude journal, stopping for a moment to give thanks to

nature, or simply moving through your day with a thankful heart,

are all powerful ways to connect with the seasonal energy.  This

season has two tools for enhancing well-being -the twin pillars

of thanks and giving.  Expressing gratitude and engaging in

service to others have a way of shifting our perspective toward

remembering our goodness and the goodness of all beings.


I'm taking this opportunity to share gratitude and appreciation for

you, our Co-Creative community. Even though 2020 has been

difficult for many reasons, I'm aware that I have countless

blessings in my life. You are one of them.  Yes, even if you don’t

read this newsletter or blog regularly, even if you don’t really

know me, even if you are considering unsubscribing… you

matter to me and my universe of energy.  Thank you for

choosing to be a part of the Co-Creative Mandalas community!

Thank you for your readership, interest, and support throughout

the year. It means so much to me!
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When I reflect on this past year, I'm so grateful for you – for

showing up in 2020 and dedicating time, energy, and resources

toward bringing more light, love, compassion, and joy to the

world. Thank you for being on this journey with me, as we seek

out ways to bring more love, compassion, and healing to

ourselves, each other, and our Earth. It is your willingness to be

present that gives me hope.


My experience is that when I show up curious, and hungry for

growth, it has the power to change my life and the lives around

me. In this time of change and uncertainty (there's always been

change and uncertainty--and both are particularly magnified this

year, right?), I will continue to share my humble offerings in the

newsletters and blog. I aim to be a resource you can count on

and find comfort in during the holiday season and beyond. I'm

grateful to be able to learn from you and offer you opportunities

to wake up to new paradigms and perspectives, expand your

consciousness, and grow!


For those of us who have been doing self-development and self-

improvement work for any length of time, we know the

importance of gratitude. Like many of you, I have a daily

gratitude practice. I read somewhere recently that the

foundation of self-love and self-care is gratitude! Practicing daily

gratitude gives us a deeper connection to ourselves, to each

other, the world around us, and to the universe.


As part of my gratitude practice, I honor all my feelings. I think it

is important not to try to force an emotion OR to pretend that I'm

not feeling what I'm feeling. Yes, even THOSE feelings. You

may know the ones I'm talking about...I'm guessing you may be

like me and in addition to feeling grateful, you are also

experiencing a full range of emotions this year.


For instance, as I'm counting my blessings I'm aware that I'm full

of sorrow this year, as I know many of you are. It's the time of

year that marks upcoming anniversaries of some of my deepest

losses, so it’s already difficult. I'm also full of gratitude, as many

of you are, and aware of all the blessings in my life.  Focusing

on just the sorrow or just the gratitude doesn't work for me. I

don’t want to ignore either one. I'm trusting that they can and do

co-exist. 


How do we find our gratitude when things may not be going the

way we want them to? Or envisioned they would be? Or you

experience outside forces not in your control?  Gratitude is great

when it's all going well. But what about when you feel --(fill in

the blank)-- or you're not where you want to be in your life?

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Full disclosure: I've been struggling a bit for the past few

months, as have many of us. Writing this newsletter and the

blog has been a huge challenge (I had planned to publish this

on Thanksgiving day).  It's not so much the writing as it is my

intention to be authentic, to be real with myself and with our

community: I'm in two minds--gratitude and sorrow. It might be

easy to focus on gratitude without mentioning the sadness. But I

know I'm experiencing both emotions. So, I've been on two

contradictory emotional tracks for a while. I've made the choice

(more than once) to hold space for and “just be” with the

sadness (and the gratitude).


During the past year, my partner's health has been deteriorating

and I'm loosing long-time friends.  I'm choosing to follow the

strictest guidelines for social distancing. So, like many of us, I'm

missing hugs and all the joys in-person contact “warms my

heart” in ways that are indescribable.


I'm also aware how much other people are suffering. Their lives

are challenged in unimaginable ways, much more so than

mine.  I was raised to be mindful of those who are less

fortunate. I think many people were taught those values. We

heard things like “You should be grateful,” or “If you can’t say

anything nice, don’t say anything at all,” or “It could be worse, so

don’t complain.” So, I'm feeling guilt, too. The upside that often

runs alongside these sentiments is compassion, empathy, and a

desire to care for others, to be of service.


I understand it's a choice to “be with” all emotions or not. 

Sometimes a particular emotion might  overwhelm  you, and

then you don’t feel as if you have a choice. But you do… you

could still run from it or pretend it’s not bothering you. There are

all sorts of options besides feeling your emotions. 


I'm choosing to honor the sadness AND also be with the

gratitude and appreciation. At times this may be a hard journey.

It's comforting to know that I'm not alone,  that we are all in this

together.  It can be mind and soul bending, but we're going to

see this through … because "the only way out of this is through

it".


Here are mindset shifts I reach for when the sadness is present

and gratitude feels elusive...(thanks to Sage Lavine for inspiring

me).


1. FEEL WHAT YOU'RE FEELING

In her March 2020 podcast--Comparative Suffering, the 50/50

myth, and Settling the ball Brene Brown tells us that emotions

are like tunnels, you have to go all the way through - if you get

stuck in the middle, replaying stories and hanging out in

emotional hell... you can end up exhausted and depressed. She

also invites us to give ourselves permission to be with ALL our

feelings. For me that includes sadness. Just being with what

comes up, that’s truly the way to healing and peace. If you can

own where your emotions are in each moment, even if they

argue with your positive, spiritual beliefs, this time will be much

easier to navigate. Feeling your challenging emotions will not

set you back spiritually, but it will create more space within you

for the light.
Sadness is NOT a happiness deficiency.  It is how the heart adjusts to loss, and releases imagined patterns of attachment.  Every time sadness arrives, the body has an emotional garage sale.  It releases what is no longer needed for the journey ahead, and clears the space to welcome in what your entire life has prepared you to find. - true happiness.  Matt Khan
2. EXPRESS THE FEELING(S)

Cry or growl or squirm around if you need to. If it helps to have

someone with you... call a friend and ask if they have 10

minutes to hold space for you to move through your stuff. Give

someone the gift of being there for you. Don't isolate.

Remember, we're all in this together!


3. REMEMBER, BE GENTLE WITH YOURSELF

In my experience, I have to turn toward it and give myself full

presence and permission to be extra gentle with myself to feel it

fully. If you have high expectations of yourself, extra love is

going to be needed. Processing grief and sadness is not

selfish.  It's self-care. Love on yourself.


4. SEE IF YOU CAN PERCEIVE THE SPACE ON THE OTHER

SIDE OF THE FEELING

The Universe is made of space. We're wired to  consistently turn

toward the "beliefs" and "heaviness" in our awareness, but the

truth is, there is space all around us - and that space provides

room for us to expand in the face of life's challenges rather than

contract.


When I focus on moving through the feelings and into

spaciousness, I feel RELIEF. Techniques like Heart Math

and Emotional Freedom Techniques-EFT-Tapping

support shifting difficult emotions, align mind, body, and spirit,

and  allow all emotional content more space to be expressed.

When you RAISE YOUR VIBRATION and get THROUGH the

hard stuff... you are creating more space to love and accept

yourself--and to feel gratitude.
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Accept - then act. Whatever the present moment contains, accept it as if you had chosen it.  Always work with it, not against it. This will miraculously transform your whole life. .                                                                                Eckhart Tolle
 5. NOW, START WITH GRATITUDE FOR SOMETHING

SIMPLE

Maybe you carve out  5, 10, or 15 minutes today to create

artwork, write a friend an "I'm grateful for you" letter or email (or

tell them), or create a social media post you're proud of. Maybe

you take the entire day off and give that gift to yourself. Maybe

you make yourself your favorite meal even if you're eating it all

alone!


Gratitude is one of the key positive energies of the holiday

season. Even when uncertainty and disruption surround you, a

simple thank you can help bring you back to center.  Gratitude is

not only for the benefit of other people; it’s a critical component

to our own self-acceptance, well-being, and self-care. When we

remember to express it and focus on our countless blessings we

acknowledge the goodness in our lives and in others. In the

process, we may recognize that the source of that goodness is

both inner and outer. As a result, gratitude also helps us

connect to something larger than ourselves as individuals — to

other people, nature, and to Source, the Universe--however you

name the Presence that supports all life.


It follows that expressing gratitude opens our hearts to being of

service: Thanks+Giving: Gratitude+Service are the two tools for

shifting perspective. There are so many ways of being of

service… Maybe you’re talented in your business, you could

mentor students at your local community college or university.

Perhaps you could volunteer for a troubled youth program. For

others, maybe it’s being involved in a choir or something within

their religious community. How about joining a local organic

farm or community garden and doing some work there?

Whatever way you choose to be of service, it’s about

volunteering in a way that honors you.


What does service look like during a time like we're

experiencing now, when we may be feeling isolated or

overwhelmed? Remember, when life feels hard, we tend put our

heads down and go into survival mode. It may feel too

overwhelming to take on extra commitments. That's okay. Honor

your feelings. Take care of yourself, love yourself, and do what

feels life affirming to you. 


Artist and author Lori Roberts shares wonderful prompts and

ideas for targeted giving and effecting positive change through

service in her book Choose Hope, Take Action: A Journal to

Inspire and Empower


If you'd like to be of service, remember small acts go a long way

in helping others feel better, and that includes you, too! Take a

moment each day and ask “How will I serve another today?”


This Co-Creative Mandala, "Thanks-Giving" is from photos of an

abundance of flowers and plants. It is a reminder of the

countless  blessings we have and the many ways we can be of

service.
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Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life.

It turns what we have into enough, and more.

It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order,

confusion to clarity.

                                                                              Melody Beattie
Thanks-Giving Exercise

 
In this simple, yet powerful exercise, I invite you to celebrate

"Thanks-Giving" and feel supported by your inner and outer

resources.  Honor this powerful time of gratitude and service.


Give yourself plenty of time without interruptions to dive deeply

into this exercise. Meditate, journal, create and bless your

sacred space.


Make this exercise your own. Invest your time and attention.


Don’t rush.

 
As you sit quietly in your space, light a candle that welcomes

"Thanks-Giving". What does "Thanks-Giving" mean to you?
 

Close your eyes. Bring your awareness to your breath; just be

with your breath. Take a deep breath in. Breathe out. Take

another deep breath in. Breathe out. Notice the sensations as

you exhale—without judgement.  Feel the body breathing. Bring

your body into stillness.


Open your eyes and bring your attention to the "Thanks-Giving"

mandala; allow the mandala energy to fill your heart; be with

whatever is there.


Invest a few minutes toward allowing the “Thanks-Giving”

energy to flow to and through your body.  Imagine that energy

bursting through your crown chakra and extending far into the

heavens.


Imagine the “Thanks-Giving” energy flowing through you and

down deep into the earth. Imagine it radiating from your heart

and extending out in front of you and behind you. Imagine the

“Thanks-Giving” energy is a radiant ball that encircles you.


Now, sit with this energy for a few minutes.


What about the "Thanks-Giving" mandala captures your

attention?


Notice and Wonder--Something in me is feeling...


I wonder what it wants me to know?

 
Relax into your body and its quietness. Be with the energy, be

present, listen:


Write out the following questions and answers in your journal.


1.What are you grateful for in your life? These are things that

will be renewed, replenished, and enhanced as you move

forward. What is one concrete action you can take to express

gratitude in your life? How will you honor gratitude and hold it in

your heart each and every day?


2. Who are the people you are grateful for in your life? What

would you like to say to these people? How have they

supported your growth? What are ways that you can express

your gratitude to these people?


3. What are actions you can take that are in service to others.

How can you be of service today?


My prayer is that for those whose hearts are hurting there is

comfort and peace and gratitude. For all of those who are sick,

to recover fully, and for all of those in need of resources, that

there is relief right in the nick of time.


Let’s keep praying for each other and appreciating,  loving, and

serving each other. Not just today, but everyday.


Blessings of peace, joy, and abundance,

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Celebrating Endings: Staying in Sync with Nature

10/31/2020

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I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.
                                                                                 L.M. Montgomery
Today, we’ll get to enjoy a werewolf’s delight--a full, Hunter’s

moon that’s also a blue moon (the 2nd full moon of the month).

October 31st (Samhain—Celtic harvest festival) marks the mid-

point of autumn in the northern hemisphere. At the mid-point we

can see and feel the shift in the seasonal energy.  At the

Autumnal Equinox the energy was active with the warm,

summer sun. Our inner and outer worlds were mingling and

inviting us to find balance between the two—between Yin and

Yang. Now, the chill in the air tells us it's time to move inside

and prepare for the future.


It's clear that our inner world is inviting us to dive more deeply

inward. Days are shortening as we move into the dark side of

the Great Round. This is a time when we leave the outer world

behind. This is a time for releasing and letting go.We can see

this in nature--the trees are dropping their leaves, flower petals

are fading, birds are making their annual journey south. As the

energy shifts inward, preparing for a new cycle, things need to

die. This is the time to celebrate endings. The natural world is

dying. Things are being cleared away, making room for new life

to take root. Nature is showing us the important role death plays

in the cycle of life.


During this transformational time we pause to acknowledge the

importance of endings, of releasing and honor the critical role

endings play in our personal growth journey. Our body's internal

clock knows deep down that a change of season means a

change in us, too. If we don't acknowledge this, we may feel out

of sync, as though we have lost our natural rhythm.
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We can consciously celebrate the change of season and shift

our own energy by setting some time aside to make the same

changes we see in nature. Here are some fun, easy ways to

support those changes:


1. Put away bright, summer colors. Replace them with warm

golds, reds, and browns. I'm naturally drawn to the bright colors

of the warmer seasons, but I enjoy decorating with fall-colored

leaves and pumpkins. I like bringing the seasonal beauty of

nature indoors.


2. Stoke your inner fires with your favorite coffee, tea, cider, or

cocoa while savoring the rich, hot comfort foods that the season

brings: potatoes, apple pies, pumpkin, and squash. What are

your favorite fall comfort foods?


3. As animals begin growing their winter coats and preparing

their dens for hibernation, dust off your favorite sweaters and

jackets, gloves and hats,  and bring blankets out of storage. We

transition from cool cotton summer sheets to warm and cozy

flannel sheets and a heavier quilt. Create coziness and light

candles or fireplaces to bring the summer's fiery glow indoors.

 
A conscious celebration of the changes we see all around us

ushers in the new season and allows us to go with the flow, not

resist it. When we’re in sync with the rhythm of nature and the

universe it carries us forward.


What We Need Is Here

Wendell Berry

Horseback on Sunday morning,

harvest over, we taste persimmon

and wild grape, sharp sweet

of summer's end. In time's maze

over fall fields, we name names

that rest on graves. We open

a persimmon seed to find the tree

that stands in promise,

pale, in the seed's marrow.

Geese appear high over us,

pass, and the sky closes. Abandon,

as in love or sleep, holds

them to their way, clear

in the ancient faith: what we need

is here. And we pray, not

for new earth or heaven, but to be

quiet in heart, and in eye,

clear. What we need is here.
 

Evolution of consciousness depends on letting things die away:

Outdated beliefs, stories, habits; relationships that no longer

serve you; jobs that crush your spirit – all these things have to

end in order to create space for growth.


The energy of the season is supporting you in this difficult work.

Nature is showing how beautiful the process can be. It's often

when we connect with nature - stop thinking - and simply be -

like a deer in the woods, that clear answers naturally flow in.


I find the clearest messages and wise guidance come to me

when I simply stop, go outside - or, look out the window -

connect with a bird flying by - or with a tree, or the sun, or the

sky, or the snow, or a bunny nibbling on grass, or the moon, or

the feel of a gentle breeze on my cheeks.
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What's needed more than ever is to connect and ground with

nature.  By sending our taproots deep down into the earth we

can maintain a sense of stability, in the chaos. Here are five

powerful ways to cultivate the inner serenity, calm and stability

we all need right now.


1. This is the time of year to get comfortable with your inner life.

This is where the work is for the next few months. Make peace

with yourself.  Don’t judge anything that comes up for you. Just

feel whatever you need to feel, and practice being an observer.

Observe your inner life without judgement.


2. Embrace the darkness. This dark side of the Great Round

reminds you not to fear the darkness. There’s a lot of beauty in

these dark days. Magic is born in the darkness. Don’t be afraid

to look at your dark parts. Wrap your arms around those parts of

yourself–send yourself only deep, compassionate love.


3. Release whatever needs to die to make space for new life to

be born. Listen to what your shadows tell you and discover parts

of yourself you need to let go of in order to grow & evolve.


4. This is a time for serious nurturing. Being brave enough to

journey into the darkness requires really mindful nurturing &

self-compassion. In perfect divine timing, we are entering the

feminine/yin side of the Great Round. Yin energy is restful. It’s

gentle & nurturing. It’s intuitive & receptive. Take deep care of

yourself.  Sleep as much as you can; don’t push yourself.

Whatever self-care looks like for you, do that. Don’t judge

yourself for how much you need it right now.


5. I invite you to try something I do all the time to stop my mind

chatter. Imagine laying your mind down on the earth whenever

it's racing with thoughts, or feeling fearful, or triggered. Imagine

placing it gently on the earth like you would a tired child for a

long needed nap. Take a deep breath and open to who you are

without your thoughts. Expect to be surprised! (Thanks to Susan

Jenkins at www.shamanichealingwork.com  for this sweet

practice).


This Co-Creative Mandala, "Peaceful Retreat", from a photo of

maple reminds us that to shift our reality we must take whatever

action is required to achieve our dreams. If our dreams are

unclear now is the time to discern what is right for our soul. This

is the time to tap into our dreams by allowing and

acknowledging our emotions for what they are. Retreat to

quieter, indoor pursuits and nurture the seeds of new

endeavors, which need quiet inner focus to grow.
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Without darkness, nothing comes to birth...

                                                                                 May Sarton
Peaceful Retreat Exercise

 
In this simple, yet powerful exercise, I invite you to celebrate

"Peaceful Retreat" and feel supported by your inner and outer

resources.  Honor this powerful time of shifting toward the

darkness.


Give yourself plenty of time without interruptions to dive deeply

into this exercise. Meditate, journal, create and bless your

sacred space.

 
Make this exercise your own. Invest your time and attention.
 

Don’t rush.

 
As you sit quietly in your space, light a candle that welcomes

"Peaceful Retreat". What does "Peaceful Retreat" mean to you?

 
Close your eyes. Bring your awareness to your breath; just be

with your breath. Take a deep breath in. Breathe out. Take

another deep breath in. Breathe out. Notice the sensations as

you exhale—without judgement.  Feel the body breathing. Bring

your body into stillness.

 
Open your eyes and bring your attention to the "Peaceful

Retreat" mandala; allow the mandala energy to fill your heart; be

with whatever is there.

 
Invest a few minutes toward allowing the “Peaceful Retreat”

energy to flow to and through your body.  Imagine that energy

bursting through your crown chakra and extending far into the

heavens.


Imagine the “Peaceful Retreat” energy flowing through you and

down deep into the earth. Imagine it radiating from your heart

and extending out in front of you and behind you. Imagine the

“Peaceful Retreat” energy is a radiant ball that encircles you.

 
Now, sit with this energy for a few minutes.

 
What about the "Peaceful Retreat" mandala captures your

attention?

 
Notice and Wonder--Something in me is feeling...

 
I wonder what it wants me to know?

 
Relax into your body and its quietness. Be with the energy, be

present, listen:

 
Write out the following questions and answers in your journal.

 
1. What is ready to die within me?

What do I need to release in order to transform?

What am I ready to let go of so I can continue to evolve?

 
2. What do my shadows have to reveal?

What is emerging from the growing darkness?

What do your shadows want to show you right now?

 
3. How can I best nourish myself this season?

What's the kindest thing you can do for yourself right now?

 
4. What magic is brewing in the growing darkness?
 

While writing out the answers to the above questions… Pay

attention to how you feel. If strong emotions like fear, grief, or

sadness arise… Love what appears! Meet your feelings with

honesty, love, and compassion. And then be willing to forgive,

release, and let go.

 
I hope this shift in seasonal energy feels peaceful and

comforting to you. I hope the changing season feels nurturing--

and the idea of fireplaces, comfort food, and a peaceful retreat

sounds cozy.

 
Sending you love, blessings, and light for the weeks and months

to come. 
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Happy Autumnal Equinox

9/22/2020

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In the Northern Hemisphere, today is the Autumnal Equinox.

Like the Spring Equinox in March, this is a day when the

number of daylight hours and nighttime hours is approximately

the same.



The energy of the sun is shifting. The days are getting

noticeably shorter. The Great Round of the year is turning

toward darkness. We bring harmony and balance into our lives

when we remember to notice how the natural rhythms of the

seasons affect our lives. Living with the seasons--being active in

the summer and getting more rest in the winter--supports our

mind, body and spirit health and well-being.



I do love this time of year. I feel the ending of the vibrant

summer energy and the beginning of a new cycle marked by

turning inward. This is the time of year for celebrating and

appreciating inner and outer abundance; for the intentions we

set at the New Year, for the seeds we planted in the spring that

we tended to in the summer and are now bearing fruit.  And, for

the growth that we've experienced throughout the year.



Our gardens are lush plants and overflowing with the fruits of

our labor. Despite an early September snow storm, they are still

alive with bees and butterflies, and if the summer-like weather

holds, we'll have flowers and veggies to harvest for a while.

Even so, it's the time of year when the veggies and flowers

growing in the garden are slowing down. Even the grasshoppers

are disappearing. This year has been an unusual growing

season--that brought long stretches of unseasonably hot

weather and the early snow storm that slowed everything down. 

Fortunately, we're still having summer-like weather even though

the seasonal calendar says it's the beginning of fall. I feel

blessed by Earth's abundance--and love sharing the bounty

from our garden.
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The first day of autumn is a day of balance between yin-yang,

which are connected with the annual cycle of the earth's trip

around the sun and the four seasons.   With the Autumnal

Equinox, it’s not only the weather that’s changing… But also,

our own lives, activities, and plans. We’ll likely now spend more

time indoors with family and friends, and with ourselves. As the

weather gets colder, we’re encouraged to turn inward. This is

where we can face our hidden doubts and fears … And through

reflection, and healing we can embrace and cultivate our

highest authenticity, aspirations, and dreams. Just what your

spirit yearns for.  How does the Autumnal Equinox affect you?

How does it support you in fulfilling your purpose?

 

Today, my blog offers you insights and resources to help you

connect with the nurturing energy of yin-yang balance and to

help you celebrate the Autumnal Equinox!



In Chinese philosophy, yin and yang describes how opposite or

contrary forces, i.e., light and dark, masculine and feminine are

actually complementary, interconnected, and interdependent in

the natural world, and how they give rise to each other as they

interrelate to one another.



In a nutshell: Yin-yang is an ancient Chinese idea that

symbolizes  the two sides of things that complement each other.

Thousands of years ago, the Chinese words yin and yang

referred to the shady and sunny sides of a hill or valley. The

symbol for yin-yang comes from the yearly pattern of shadows

cast by a long pole stuck straight up in the ground.



Yang begins at the winter solstice, the beginning of seasonal

cycle when daylight dominates over darkness and is associated

with the sun at the Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice. Spring

is all about new beginnings, planting seeds, and hope. Summer

is an intense season with its outward-focused energy that is

usually a super active time. And whether you realize it or not,

you've been doing a lot of hard, inner work since you envisioned

your goals at the New Year, planted your intentions in the

spring, and cultivated your dreams all season long. You're

stretching & growing in ways you may not see yet.



Yin begins at the summer solstice and represents the

dominance of darkness over daylight and is associated with the

moon.  The Autumn Equinox begins to balance this energy and

brings a sense of equilibrium to the parts of our lives that really

need it this month and at this time. The Great Mandala is turning

toward the darker, more inward-focused time of the year. You

may find yourself thinking of the higher meaning of your life, of

what's happening in the world and what matters to you as you

seek to uncover the higher purpose behind everything.  Don't be

afraid to explore these thoughts. They are essential to your

growth and helpful for you to look at from a higher perspective.



Just like the Yin-yang symbol, in the cycle of life, all is perfect,

whole, and complete. In everything there is a time of beginning,

a time of growth, a time of being, a time of withering or wearing

out, and a time of leaving. These are all part of the perfection of

life. We sense it as normal and natural, and though saddened at

times, we accept the cycle and its rhythms. Life is ever

changing.  Life is never stuck or static or stale (even if we

sometimes feel that it is); each moment is ever new and fresh.

Every ending is a new point of beginning.



And of course, it's a great reminder that it doesn't matter what

the season is, you can being again anytime you like. All it takes

is a change of heart and mind, a recognition that a belief you're

holding isn't helpful, a desire to change it. You are the master of

your destiny and you create the reality you wish to have.



During this time of uncertainty about the future, I'm so grateful

that I have the belief that change is possible. Because when I

believe that, it becomes my truth.



Humanity is facing extraordinary challenges to our health and

well-being.



And, if you're like many people—me included, you may feel at

least a little uncertain as to how all this is going to pan out. Like

many of you, I'm holding an intention that humanity will not only

return to balance - but will bounce back with new perspectives,

leaving us even stronger than before.



But in the meantime, what can you do to stay calm, relaxed, and

at peace no matter what's going on around you? Embedded

within this global crisis is an opportunity to reflect and reconnect

with the essence of ourselves.



Ancient wisdom, traditions, and rituals give us many pathways

to this outcome. By incorporating tools and practices like

meditation, breath work, Emotional Freedom Techniques

(EFT Tapping), and Co-Creative Mandalas, we can get through

this storm - and even emerge with new levels of growth and

self-awareness. What are practices that you have in place now?

Are you getting enough rest? Are you taking care of yourself

with good, nutritious food and exercise? How are you

minimizing stress in your life?



To stay on track with our goals in this ever-changing

environment, we’ve all had to adjust our routines and learn to

adapt. And, if we’re going to finish this year as strong as

possible, we’ll all need to practice self-care more than we’ve

ever had to before.
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In the meantime, what can you do to stay calm, relaxed, and at

peace no matter what's going on around you? Embedded within

this global crisis are many opportunities to reflect and reconnect

with the essence of ourselves.



When we're stressed, anxious, or "out of kilter"--it's nearly

impossible to find our center. Bringing mindful, non-judgmental

attention to the present moment is shown to change the quality

of your experience. Every day is filled with opportunities to bring

your attention to the present moment. You can practice

mindfulness at any moment.



We could all use a little help focusing on the present instead of

worrying about what the future holds. Here are four suggestions

for getting you started:


1. Mindful Waking

Setting an intention to bring mindfulness into the very first

moments of your day is a lovely, gentle way to set the tone for

the hours to come—rather than slamming your hand on the

alarm clock and bolting out of bed in the morning.


Pay attention to: Your mind and your body. Do you feel alert or

tired? Are your muscles tight? Slowly stretch your limbs and

your back, noticing the sensation of each movement. Try to

notice what thought crosses your mind the second you open

your eyes - or even just before.



2. Mini Meditation: Mindfulness in a Minute

When you feel pressed for time, simply do a quick check-in and

remember your breathing.


Pat attention to: Are you breathing deeply or are your breaths

shallow? Are you holding tension in your face, neck, shoulders

or belly? Give yourself 10 to 16 seconds to breathe deeply and

rotate your shoulders back, thinking about the present moment.

It’s like a small reset button that’ll help you stay focused and

centered.
 
 
 
3. Mindful Cleaning

Whether it’s doing the dishes, sweeping the floor or folding the

laundry, chores present an ideal opportunity to bring

mindfulness into day-to day life.


Pay attention to: Whatever your hands are doing. If you’re

washing dishes, notice the temperature of the water, the texture

of the plates, the motion of scrubbing. If you’re folding laundry,

feel the different fabrics. While sweeping, notice the movement

of your arms, the stretch and extension, and perhaps even an

aching as time goes by.


4. Mindful Waiting

Bringing mindfulness into your waiting time can turn that sigh

when you first spot the long line at the bank into a genuine

smile. It’s also an opportunity to notice your mind as well as

your body, as emotional reactions tend to arise fast and strong

when we’re forced to wait.


Pay attention to: The whole experience. Notice how you feel

when you realize you’ll have to wait - does your heart beat

faster? Do you feel annoyed? Angry? Perhaps your fists even

clench instinctively. Does your breathing change? Once you’re

sitting or standing in the line or at the bus stop, pull your

attention away from the mental and emotional part of your

experience, and be mindful of your body. Feel your feet on the

ground, your inhalations and exhalations. Notice each and every

tiny movement.


(Excerpted from an article that appeared on Goodnet: "7-easy-

ways-to-be-mindful-in-your-everyday-life-list")


I encourage you all to carve out some time around the Equinox

to pause & reflect during this powerful seasonal time. This is a

beautiful time to check in with yourself – to look at what's

happening in your life, honor where you're stuck or afraid, and

discover how you've changed and grown during the past nine

months.


This Co-Creative Mandala, "Inner Knowing", from a photo of

rose hips reminds us of the importance of being in tune with our

"still small voice".  We are shifting out of a season where so

much of our energy is focused on our outer lives, into a season

of introspection. This is a time for exploring our inner lives,

diving into our shadows, and exploring our dark spots. In this

season we are remembering  how to appreciate the darkness.

It's a season of deep inner growth if you are brave enough to

explore your own shadows & darkness, if you're ready to let the

old,outgrown parts of yourself die.
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The difference between misery and happiness

depends on what we do

with our attention.
                                                      

                                                                       Sharon Salzberg

Inner Knowing Exercise


In this simple, yet powerful exercise, I invite you to celebrate

"Inner Knowing" and feel supported by your inner and outer

resources.  Honor this powerful time of the Autumnal Equinox

and tap into the blessings and opportunities it presents us now.

Celebrate your authenticity, reconnect with your inner light, and

cultivate a powerful sense of balance and presence during the

Autumn Equinox with this simple ritual!



Give yourself plenty of time without interruptions to dive deeply

into this exercise. Meditate, journal, create and bless your

sacred space.



Make this exercise your own. Invest your time and attention.



Don’t rush.


As you sit quietly in your space, light a candle that welcomes

"Inner Knowing". What does "Inner Knowing" mean to

you?


Close your eyes. Bring your awareness to your breath; just be

with your breath. Take a deep breath in. Breathe out. Take

another deep breath in. Breathe out. Notice the sensations as

you exhale—without judgement.  Feel the body breathing. Bring

your body into stillness.


Open your eyes and bring your attention to the mandala; allow

the mandala energy to fill your heart; be with whatever is there.

Invest a few minutes toward allowing the “Inner Knowing”

energy to flow to and through your body.  Imagine that energy

bursting through your crown chakra and extending far into the

heavens

.
Imagine the “Inner Knowing” energy flowing through you

and down deep into the earth. Imagine it radiating from your

heart and extending out in front of you and behind you. Imagine

the “Inner Knowing” energy is a radiant ball that encircles

you.


Now, sit with this energy for a few minutes.

What about the mandala captures your attention?

Notice and Wonder--Something in me is feeling...

I wonder what it wants me to know?


Relax into your body and its quietness. Be with the energy, be

present, listen:


Write out the following questions and answers in your journal.
  • What were the intentions you set this past spring?
  • What did you do to cultivate them?
  • How are those intentions manifesting now?
  • What challenges appeared for you in this last cycle?
  • How did you navigate through them?
  • What could you have done differently?
  • What can you change now to stay in greater love, peace, and balance?

While writing out the answers to the above questions… Pay

attention to how you feel. If strong emotions like fear, grief,  or

sadness arise… Love what appears! Meet your feelings with

honesty, love, and compassion. And then be willing to forgive,

release, and let go.


I hope this shift in seasonal energy feels balancing and

comforting to you. I hope the changing season feels nurturing--

and the idea of wearing scarves and hats sounds cozy. Sending

you love, blessings, and light for the weeks and months to

come. May this be a season of enlightening inner exploration for

you.



Blessings of love, peace, and light,
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Joyful Endurance: Lessons From the Garden

8/31/2020

0 Comments

 
No matter who we are or what we have gone through or will go through, there is within us this possibility of growth. Of change, clarity, love, and connection.
                                                                            Sharon Salzberg
It’s the final stretch of the summer, and autumn is on the

horizon. Are you looking forward to the change of season? A

new season means a fresh start … so let’s celebrate you, your

hopes, and your fears.


As the Great Mandala begins its final turn toward autumn, I

hope you're  finding opportunities for inner and outer

adventures. August 1st marked the mid-point of the summer

season. In some cultures, this is a traditional time for celebrating

the beginning of harvest season. It's also powerful time to look

at what you planted and what you’re cultivating this year.

Remember in January when you created your Vision 2020?

Remember all the hard work you put into planting your vision in

the spring, just like planting seeds in a garden? Now, that hard

work is beginning to bear fruit--literally and figuratively.


The sun is at its hottest this time of year. Where we are in

Colorado, we're approaching a record number of days in the

90s. The sun is ripening the fruit on the trees and the plants in

the garden. All of nature is opening to the sun. Our garden is

overflowing with flowers and veggies (can you spell all things

"zucchini" ?). I think this year’s garden is particularly abundant

because the summer sun has been, and still is, fiery hot, active,

energetic and bold. It's helping to ripen everything we planted in

the spring. The same thing is happening within each of us (the

winter dreams and spring intentions we planted, and we’ve been

tending and growing all summer).
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I love knowing that even if I didn’t plant a garden or have the

opportunity to be outside, I’m not separate from nature and the

natural world. Each season has its own unique energy. Whether

we’re aware of it or not, each season has a profound effect on

us mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.  

As we move from summer to autumn, the seasonal energy

encourages us to grow and thrive. When you see all the

abundant growth, and energy in the world around you, in the

gardens, in nature--even if you don't see it for yourself –it’s still

happening within right now. What did you envision for 2020?

What are you tending and nurturing? What have you been

working hard to cultivate so far this year?



Using seasonal Co-Creative Mandalas as the foundation and a

tool for understanding how nature and the current season

influences our lives, this blog looks at the effects the changing

seasons have on our journeys of personal growth and spiritual

evolution, and  how we can use the Co-Creative Mandala and

seasonal energy to support transformation in our lives. And

when your inner life is in tune with the natural rhythms  of the

seasons, it puts you deeply in tune with your most authentic self

and your life purpose.


The sun gives us a lot of clarity right now...about the work we're

doing, and what inspires and motivates  us. This is the time to

open to the life-giving power of the sun and allow the vision you

imagined at the New Year, the seeds you planted in the spring

and cultivated all summer, to ripen. Which can sometimes be

hard to see.  It can be a little scary, too. What if the seeds I

planted didn’t germinate, didn’t survive? What if all the hard

work over the past few months doesn’t bring the results I

intended? You may not think you have anything growing in your

inner garden or the vision you had for yourself at the New Year

has changed. What you set out to accomplish in January and

planted in the spring--may have shifted.  Check in and make

sure you're directing the energy toward what you want to grow.

Can you name what you've been nurturing and tending? Look

into your inner landscape--what have you been working hard to

grow?  Make sure you're still directing your energy in the places

you want to see growth and change.  Do you need to change

that direction? I know my Vision 2020 is different now from my

intentions in January.   A shift in perspective opens me to the

realization that simply being a human being living through the

past few months, living through the uncertainties and upheaval ,

has caused me to stretch and grow in unimaginable ways. It's

sometimes difficult or impossible to predict what will grow from

the seeds we plant. I so appreciate Debbie Millman's “Love

Letters to What You Hold Dear” video series. The first one--“A

Love Letter to My Garden” --reminds me that even the tiniest

seed produces amazing results.

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As the seasonal wheel subtly turns, the daylight hours are

getting shorter, the nighttime temperatures are cooling. It's not

uncommon to feel out of sorts as we transition from summer to

autumn. With this year's summer sun burning so HOT, your

mind, body, and spirit may feel worn out because of it. This is

the perfect time to pause and check in with yourself. How are

you feeling? Are you getting enough rest?


Go ahead... invest in yourself by pausing and appreciating the

work that's gone into tending all the seeds you planted. Create

space for honoring your process and all the work you've put into

your personal growth so far this year.  During the whole, entire

growing season we've been up against uncertainty. It's

important to recognize how hard you've been working. Even if

you don't see the fruit of your labors--trust that unbelievable

harvests will come from all your efforts. Even if you don't see

that YET--the universe has been working intensely for you.

Celebrate that you’re still showing up. Day after day, you’re

giving your reasonable best to yourself and others.   



My garden reminds me of this truth: We can bloom. We can

endure AND thrive. We can be joy and bring joy.


Simple lessons from the garden:


  Be patient and trust that everything we're tending will come in

its own Divine timing. We can't rush the harvest. Trust that you

put in the work, tending your garden--and all will come to fruition

at the perfect time, in the perfect way.



  Take action: Your intentions for the things you want to grow

need forward action. What steps can you take this month to

move those things closer to harvest? Does the garden need

water? Does it need weeding? Does it need to be nourished and

fed?


  Protect and nurture the seeds you've planted.  With loving

care for the seeds you planted, you will experience expansive

growth.


  Growth takes work. With perseverance, you nurture what you

want to grow in your life.


  Rest: Find the balance between working hard and resting--so

as not to burn yourself out. Rejuvenate, refresh, recharge every

day.


  Notice:  Without trying to change things. Simply using your

mind without pushing. That allows you to accept what is.



The Co-Creative Mandala below—“Joyful Endurance”—from a

photograph of a swallow tail butterfly and a zinnia reminds us of

transition and endurance.  The butterfly is one of the most

symbolic animals regarding the power of personal

transformation. The black and yellow butterfly meaning is

representative of cycles and tides. It relates to the end of one

thing and the beginning of something new, like a wave on the

beach pulling one rock into the sea as it leaves another behind.

The zinnia flower symbolizes endurance. Zinnias are happy to

grow in the boiling, hot sun, in poor soil, and under harsh

conditions. They are prolific bloomers until the first frost. I think

the zinnia flower’s message is that setbacks are only temporary,

the heat of the moment will pass, and you will be able to move

graciously through any obstacles to get to your goal.  The

benevolent rays of the sun will shine down on you again.

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...there will be an increasing need for those who can stand

strong...who can stand in calmness and in Light...points of

grounding who can also be tall in the Light, trees well-

rooted in the soil but with branches drawing in the

sustaining light of the sun

                                                                   David Spangler


Joyful Endurance Exercise


In this simple, yet powerful exercise, I invite you to celebrate

"Joyful Endurance" and make a connection between yourself 

and the presence of the elements around you. Each connection

is a strand of blessing. The following exercise is adapted from

David Spangler's Web Weaving exercise I learned in a class

taught by friend and colleague Rue Hass.


Give yourself plenty of time without interruptions to dive deeply

into this exercise. Meditate, journal, create and bless your

sacred space.


Make this exercise your own. Invest your time and attention.


Don’t rush.


As you sit quietly in your space, light a candle that welcomes

"Joyful Endurance". What does "Joyful Endurance" mean to

you?


Close your eyes. Bring your awareness to your breath; just be

with your breath. Take a deep breath in. Breathe out. Take

another deep breath in. Breathe out. Notice the sensations as

you exhale—without judgement.  Feel the body breathing. Bring

your body into stillness.


Open your eyes and bring your attention to the mandala; allow

the mandala energy to fill your heart; be with whatever is there.

Invest a few minutes toward allowing the “Joyful Endurance”

energy to flow to and through your body.  Imagine that energy

bursting through your crown chakra and extending far into the

heavens

.
Imagine the “Joyful Endurance” energy flowing through you

and down deep into the earth. Imagine it radiating from your

heart and extending out in front of you and behind you. Imagine

the “Joyful Endurance” energy is a radiant ball that encircles

you.


Now, sit with this energy for a few minutes.


What about the mandala captures your attention?


Notice and Wonder--Something in me is feeling...


I wonder what it wants me to know?


Relax into your body and its quietness. Be with the energy, be


present, listen


.
Bring our attention once again to the mandala. Feel the

connection, partner with the mandala. Imagine a ribbon or

strand of Light between you and the mandala.  This strand is a

carrier of your goodwill, love, and blessings to the mandala, the

co-creation of a partnership.


*Spin a strand of Light between you and all the minerals that

you see, the rocks and stones, brick, and mortar that are in your

environment. This strand is a carrier of your goodwill, love, and

blessings to the minerals.


*Spin a strand of Light between you and anything made out of

wood. Track back through the life of that wood, its native forest,

the hands that created it in this shape, the story it holds.


*Spin a strand of Light between you and any other things that

humans have created with their conscious and unconscious

imagination, love, and purpose. This strand is a carrier of your

goodwill, love, and blessings.


*Spin a strand of Light between you and any animals, insects,

other material lives that may be present.


*Spin a strand of Light between you and any plants that are

present. This strand is a carrier of your goodwill, love, and

blessings to this space.


*Honor and inwardly bow to yourself, spinning a strand of Light,

goodwill, love, and blessings into and throughout your body and

all the stories that are held in it, weaving a loving connection

across space and time.


*Weave all your strands into the larger web of light of the love

and blessings of the Sacred; the universal web of life is

perpetually emerging toward manifesting wholeness, goodwill

and mutual support.


You can do this exercise anywhere and at any time, particularly

times when you want to bring more calmness and loving

presence to your awareness.  Our personal energy is part of the

larger, interdependent energy fields found in our communities,

the land, and the planet as a whole.  Recognizing that we are

part of a larger whole and acting to benefit the world around us

is a vital way to keep our energy flowing, healthy, and

connected.


Take good care of yourself. You know how…


Peace and joy to your seeking heart,


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Interdependence: Are We Really All in This Together?

7/30/2020

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 I get by with a little help from my friends. 
                                   John Lennon
Happy International Day of Friendship! The first International

Day of Friendship was proclaimed and celebrated by the UN in

2011. This special day reminds us of the importance of

connecting with people through friendship along with building

bridges among cultures, countries and ideologies, and

promoting a more peaceful world (from the UN website).


I'm always on the lookout for reminders that there is still good in

this world. The human condition is challenging, to say the least.

We live in a tough world, made all the more difficult by a global

pandemic and racial and social injustices. Between the isolation

of the quarantine, lack of trust, discrimination, and cultural

discord, prioritizing peace may seem to have less presence in

today's world.  I think that's part of the illusion of separation that

seems to be the dominate force these days.


Over the past few months, many of us are discovering that

going it alone is against our nature (even us introverts). We

thrive on the interdependence that comes from standing

together for a common purpose. Even though it's sometimes

hard to see, I believe we have more in common than we may

realize. And, I trust that any idea (like International Day of

Friendship) that minimizes the spread of hatred and disdain that

keeps us feeling separate from one another is the kind of world

we want.  I'd like to think that's something we all have in

common.   Promoting and defending a shared spirit of human

solidarity takes many forms — the simplest of which is

friendship. The word “friend” is a derivative of the verb “freon,”

which means, “To love.”


As we physically re-engage with family, friends, neighbors, and

co-workers, how can we go about tending to friendship (when

friendship is a verb)? Even if you've maintained connections all

the while, why not invest the time and energy today toward

letting your friends know they matter to you.


Today, and every day, offers the opportunity to reach out to our

friends, to remind them that they are loved and cared for.

Celebrating friendships through something as simple as a brief

note, a text, a phone call, a card or a coffee/tea hang out (with

appropriate social distancing) are all ways to foster friendship.
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We are experiencing a unique and

historic time that is calling for us to

stand steady and calm, stay grounded

in our strength and spirit, and hold up

Light and hope, courage and

friendship for others. Friendship is

synonymous with the bonding that

creates a space in which even in our

differences we can find common ground through kindness and

togetherness.


At a time in history when we may be feeling more disconnected

than ever—and missing our friends and family deeply—there is

hope to help you get through anything (yes, even this).  While

we may not be immune to fear and feeling separate,

incorporating practices that help shift our vibration (mood,

attitude, thoughts, and feelings) is a powerfully loving and

healing gesture toward ourselves and each other. Cultivating

balance in our lives, remembering our Wholeness, and

transforming energies of pain and suffering into energies of

optimal health for mind, body, spirit allows us to offer support,

healing, and friendship to a world that needs us more now than

ever.


I believe we're here to help humanity. We're on earth at this time

to be points of light, calm, and connectedness. We have been

given an urgent wake up call to live our purpose, to help

humanity prosper, and to extend love. I believe we're being

called to go beyond self-care (although that is the necessary

first step to creating the foundation for how we "be in the world")

by holding a sense of inner spaciousness and calmness from

which we can fulfill our purpose, the reason we were born

during  this time of upheaval, turmoil, and change. This is a time

of discovery--what you're good at, what you love to do, and what

makes you feel your calling (Hint: This is more than a career). 

It's also a time of finding calmness in the chaos and aligning

with your purpose. We all have a purpose. What's yours?


My purpose is to serve others in the best way I possibly can. I

do that in few ways – through coaching, teaching, co-creating

mandalas, gardening and other interactions like this blog. When

I’m serving others, I’m deeply aware of my gratitude for them.  I

also serve others by using humor and serving from a place of

love.   When I'm not living from my calm center, I notice these

qualities aren’t present and it's hard to be in alignment with my

purpose.  In other words, if I’m not attuned to my calm center,

aware of my gratitude, listening deeply, or coming from love

when I’m coaching or teaching, then my vibration isn't in

alignment with my purpose.  At those times I can choose how I

respond.  I can stay stuck in that place or I can begin again. 

And when I notice that, I have an opportunity to get back on

track.  The more I'm aware of this and use practices that clear

my energy and shift my vibration, being a friend to myself and

the world becomes a habit.


As spiritual "first responders" (thank you, Rue Hass) we need to

think clearly and creatively about the present so that we have

the capacity to co-create an emerging future that gets us out of

our habitual patterns, outdated beliefs, and limitations that we

have been trained to follow.


Here are three simple steps we can take:


1. Remember (or possibly begin) self-care basics. Drink lots of

water! Healthy eating, rest and regular exercise can give you

the resilience to evolve and adapt. Take good care of yourself

first, and you have more to give to others, if this is important to

you.


2. Nourish and strengthen your immune system. Your immune

system tells you what is you and what isn't you. It's an extension

of your identity. Strengthen your immune system by

incorporating Donna Eden's Daily Energy Routine.


3. Create and hold a space for calm.  When we notice the

discomfort that comes with disruptions in our energy system, we

can heal it by creating a space for it instead of battling it,

resisting it, or trying to get rid of it. Energy meridian work (like

EFT/Tapping) fosters calmness and creates openness for

imagining new possibilities. Clearing the energy system turns

worry and upset toward calmness and peace and expands our

capacity for extending friendship and cooperation globally.

Don't underestimate the simple act of remaining calm. Being

calm, held in light, is a needed service. The world

needs islands of calm.


The Co-Creative Mandala below—“Interdependence" reminds

us that "we're all in this together".  We are energy fields,

connected to everything and everyone. This is a time when we

really need to come together and accept our differences and

stand together in friendship and make changes individually,

collectively, and globally.  As we think and act holistically to

solve problems--each of us offers different and complimentary

visions. Guided by ideas and ideals we become problem

solvers. We are the ones we've been waiting for.
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Each friend represents a world in us,

a world possibly not born until they arrive,

and it is only by this meeting

that a new world is born.

                                                                   Anais Nin
Interdependence Exercise:


In this simple, yet powerful exercise, I invite you to celebrate

"Interdependence" and  connect with the power of all aspects of

yourself. The following exercise is adapted from the Jin Shin

Jyutsu finger holding exercise. Instead of focusing on the

emotions, we will focus on five aspects of ourselves--the body,

mind, emotions, subtle body, and soul. Together, these parts are

our Wholeness. 


Give yourself plenty of time without interruptions to dive deeply

into this exercise. Meditate, journal, create and bless your

sacred space.


Make this exercise your own. Invest your time and attention.


Don’t rush.


As you sit quietly in your space, light a candle that welcomes

“Interdependence”. What does "Interdependence" mean to you?


Close your eyes. Bring your awareness to your breath; just be

with your breath. Take a deep breath in. Breathe out. Take

another deep breath in. Breathe out. Notice the sensations as

you exhale—without judgement.  Feel the body breathing. Bring

your body into stillness.


Open your eyes and bring your attention to the mandala; allow

the mandala energy to fill your heart; be with whatever is there.

Invest a few minutes toward allowing the “Interdependence” 

energy to flow to and through your body.  Imagine that energy

bursting through your crown chakra & extending far into the

heavens.


Imagine the “Interdependence” energy flowing through you

and down deep into the earth. Imagine it radiating from your

heart and extending out in front of you and behind you. Imagine

the “Interdependence” energy is a radiant ball that encircles

you.


Now, sit with this energy for a few minutes.


What about the mandala captures your attention?


Notice and Wonder--Something in me is feeling...


I wonder what it wants me to know?



Relax into your body and its quietness. Be with the energy, be

present, listen.


Call to mind each aspect of yourself: you body, your mind, your

emotions, your subtle body, and your soul. Notice how each part

is interdependent in shaping your life.Give each of these parts

your love and appreciation for what each contributes to your

wholeness and life.


ACTIVATE THE ENERGY MERIDIANS

Focusing on the mandala--wrap your right hand around the

thumb or a finger of the left hand. Relax your hands and hold as

you


◆ bring calm awareness to your body— lightly hold your thumb

◆ bring calm awareness to your mind— lightly hold your index

finger

◆ bring calm awareness to your emotions— lightly hold your

middle finger

◆ bring calm awareness to your subtle body (sphere around

you, aura, energy field that is you)— lightly hold your ring finger

◆ bring calm awareness to your soul— lightly hold your pinky

finger

◆ Hold your hands together, finger tips together, as if you are

cradling a ball.


Again, thank and acknowledge each of them for being part of a

larger whole that is you.


You can do this exercise anywhere and at any time that your

hands are free. Just wrap your right hand around the thumb or a

finger of the left hand. Relax your hands and hold. For best

results, sit comfortably and close your eyes.


By holding each thumb and finger in turn every day for a few

minutes, you can calm the mind, soothe the nervous system,

and regenerate your whole being.


When your energy feels blocked or stymied, taking an action

can help unblock the flow, particularly when you take action on

behalf of someone else. An act of kindness, thoughtfulness, and

helpfulness for another can have marvelously wonderful effects

on your energy field.


Our personal energy is part of the larger, interdependent energy

fields found in our communities, the land, and the planet as a

whole.  Recognizing that we are part of a larger whole and

acting to benefit the world around us is a vital way to keep our

energy flowing, healthy, and connected.


Peace and Joy to your seeking heart,
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Happy Summer Solstice: Shining Light on Our Shadows

6/20/2020

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There's a crack, a crack in everything--
that's how the light gets in.
                                                      Leonard Cohen
The Summer Solstice invites you to shine your brightest right

now. To stand your tallest. Everything in nature is stretching &

growing & preparing to bear fruit.  And so are you! How can you

use this incredible influx of energy? Where do you want to direct

this extra fire? How can you connect with this powerful time to

expand & co-create transformation in your life?  How can you

use this energy to bring more light to the world? This is a really

important, meaningful time. And the most important thing you

can do is to trust you're being guided. Trust in the forces that

encourage ALL living things to grow & blossom & bear fruit. The

natural forces that are pushing the plants in the garden to

produce their vegetables and flowers are pushing you, too –

encouraging you to blossom, directing you toward living your

purpose.


There are ancient beliefs that say the Summer Solstice opens

the portal between this world and the spiritual realm. Is that

true? Over the past few months, there have been times when

it's been hard to see an opening that lets the light in. We’ve

been on a roller coaster ride this year, and try as we might,

there have been times when it hasn’t all been fun, or peaceful,

or comforting.


With the Solstice opening the portal into the spiritual realm, we

can find our way back to balance, joy, gratitude, and yes, fun by

letting go and accepting what was, what is, and what will be.

The present moment is the only thing in our control, the only

thing that is certain. Surrendering isn't giving up; acceptance

isn't resignation. Being in the present is like laying in a field,

looking up at the blue summer sky and watching the clouds go

by. There's no resistance to the moment to moment

experience, there's no judgment about the clouds, there's only

observation, surrendering to what is, and accepting that

change happens. 


For the next few days, the cosmic "weather" will be electrifying!

So, what cosmic energies are at play now and how will they

create a shift? The day after the Solstice, June 21st, there will

be a strong solar eclipse--signifying change, PLUS the Cancer

New Moon--signifying new growth. Imagine for a moment that

with the Summer Solstice and these cosmic occurrences you

will actually find balance, joy, and new growth in your life.



Is this possible?


If so, what shifts are you likely to see, feel and experience in

your life?
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It has been an intense 6

months, individually and

collectively. We've faced a

global pandemic – and

everything that has come

up around that. We've lived

life in quarantine. We've

experienced the entire

world shutting down around

us.


Perhaps you've faced illness, the death of someone close to

you, job and/or housing insecurity.


We are continuing to live through uncertainty, and a time that

calls for deep surrender  to the present. When we surrender, we

are "relinquishing our demand that the present be something

other than it actually is. We are fostering a willingness to be

present with what is". Surrendering to the present entails

surrendering to our current limitations, both internal and

external. I'm not saying this is easy. It takes practice.
 

And, we're also living through the dismantling of structures,

systems, and the unconscious biases that perpetuate a culture

of racism.

 
This is a HUGELY transformative time! No one can predict what

the future will look like. We may be afraid of the unknown. We

may feel hopeful and excited about new possibilities--

possibilities we have yet to imagine.


Even though the Summer Solstice and all the energetic

upheaval we're experiencing tugs at us to take action, to be co-

creative, to go out and play--this is also a powerful time for

going inward and connecting with yourself at a deeper level.

Reflecting on the inner and outer changes brings you into closer

connection with your own vulnerabilities and enables you to

view things from multiple perspectives, helping you on your path

toward well-being, remembering your wholeness and living a

purposeful life. The more I look inside my own being, the more I

notice the many ways my outer world is reflected within me. All

the conflicts, pain, and suffering--the shadows--in the world

today exist within. This realization can be uncomfortable; it can

be empowering.


One key to moving forward with confidence and grace is

gathering the tools and the aid you need to get the most out of

your journey. What’s giving you guidance in THIS

moment?  I've noticed that each time I respond to a call in my

life, things start to happen — things that help me, things that

stand in my way, often a mix of both, show up.


In this article, Positive Psychology coach Homaira Kabir offers

three simple ways to connect with the present moment--when

we're longing for the "good old days" when the world felt

"normal".


It's the longest day of the year. Right now the Sun is at the

height of its power. And so are you. The Summer Solstice is the

perfect time to shine your brightest .


We're only half way through the Great Round & it's already been

a full, intense, wild ride. The Summer Solstice is a powerful time

to PAUSE. 
 

Pause for a moment & acknowledge how you've already grown

& evolved this year. Pause for a moment & allow yourself to feel

proud of yourself.
 

Feel proud of all you've accomplished so far this year. Even if it

feels like all you've accomplished is simply surviving.
 

Surviving is absolutely worth celebrating!


I really encourage you to set some time aside this weekend &

touch in with this powerful seasonal time. (You'll find a

mediation/journaling exercise below.) The most important thing

you can do is to go outside. Breathe in the new energy of

Summer.Take a walk. Watch the clouds drift by. Play in your

garden or someone else's garden. Gardens are filled with hope,

healing, learning and inspiration. They are a place to connect

with the beauty of nature – all things we need now more than

ever.


This Co-Creative Mandala, "De-Light-Filled" was co-created

from a photograph of marigold and a painted lady butterfly.

Marigold is also called "herb of the sun" and symbolizes new

beginnings, passion and creativity. The butterfly symbolizes

massive transformation.
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The sun is at its peak.

Let the Summer Solstice

inspire you to

shine your brightest

be your boldest

and

radiate and expand

your inner light.

De-Light-Filled Exercise:


In this simple, yet powerful exercise, I invite you to celebrate the

Summer Solstice  and  connect with the power of light that

nurtures you.


Give yourself plenty of time without interruptions to dive deeply

into this exercise. Meditate, journal, create and bless your

sacred space.


Make this exercise your own. Invest your time and attention.


Don’t rush.


As you sit quietly in your space, light a candle that welcomes

“De-Light-Filled”.


Close your eyes. Bring your awareness to your breath; just be

with your breath. Take a deep breath in. Breathe out. Take

another deep breath in. Breathe out. Notice the sensations as

you exhale—without judgement.  Feel the body breathing. Bring

your body into stillness.


Open your eyes and bring your attention to the mandala; allow

the mandala energy to fill your heart; be with whatever is there.

Invest a few minutes toward allowing the “De-Light-Filled” 

energy to flow to and through your body.  Imagine that energy

bursting through your crown chakra & extending far into the

heavens.


Imagine the “De-Light-Filled” energy flowing through you

and down deep into the earth. Imagine it radiating from your

heart and extending out in front of you and behind you. Imagine

the “De-Light-Filled” energy is a radiant ball that encircles

you.


Now, sit with this energy for a few minutes.


What about the mandala captures your attention?


Notice and Wonder--Something in me is feeling...


I wonder what it wants me to know?


Relax into your body and its quietness. Be with the energy, be

present, listen.


By asking ourselves questions related to what’s happening

seasonally, we can connect with the powerful & unique energy

present in that season and infuse our lives with insight,

inspiration, sacred strength and wisdom.


Now, ask yourself:


  1. What's changed in my life since the Winter Solstice?
  2. What challenges have I faced? What did I learn by going through them?
  3. What do I feel really proud of from the past 6 months? What accomplishments do I want to celebrate?

Do you spend time beating yourself up for the things you don’t

get done?. Take a moment to acknowledge how much you do

accomplish. It’s a lot. You work hard. Pause here and give

yourself a genuine pat on the back. Life is hard. And you do

your best. Which is spectacular. Be nice to yourself. Say thanks.



There’s a lot happening in the world right now that deserves our

attention, but in moments like this, it’s even more important to

reserve some time for slowing down, unwinding, and caring for

yourself.



Peace and joy to your seeking heart,                  
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    Author

    Sheryl Harrell, Gardener

    of the Soil and of the

    Soul & Co-Creator of

    Mandalas. Happy you

    found my Blog!

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