X volving
December 2014 ~ Vol.VI, Issue 10
in Kansas City
A Guide for Conscious Living 7 STEPS FOR CREATING RITUALS TRANSCENDENCE HEALTHIER HOLIDAY CHOICES STEP INTO THE GARMENT OF YOUR HIGHER SELF
GLUTEN-FREE HOLIDAY TRADITIONS EVOLVING… A GUIDE FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING
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EVOLVING… A GUIDE FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING
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Publisher’s Letter...
Features...
Photo by Penny Thieme
Dear Friend,
The theme this month, Transcendence, seems like a grand one: to go beyond the limits of ordinary experience — something far better or greater than usual. I think of the Phoenix rising from the ashes. Or even liken it to enlightenment. Pretty large footsteps to fill and a somewhat intimidating aspiration. But rather than some grand achievement, I believe transcendence is an everyday occurrence. We all face struggles each day. It’s how we face these problems that brings transcendence. So how can transcendence occur in the midst of the muck of life? I believe, that instead of having to rise above our problems, we can instead see our struggles from above (a higher place) and know that resolution is fact. Rather than a verb, transcending, we realize we are all already there — transcendent. As Transcendent Beings, it doesn’t mean we won’t make mistakes. It doesn't mean every moment will be bliss. It will mean that each step we take, each challenge we overcome or see from a higher light, leads to grace — and a transcendent expression of life.
7 Steps for Creating Rituals..11 Transcending Anxiety...12 Step Into the Garment of Your Higher Self...13 Stages of Enlightenment...14 Self-Transcendence…15
Jill Dutton Stay Connected all Month! *Read the magazine online: www.EvolvingMagazine.com *Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/EvolvingMagazine *Follow us on Twitter: @EvolvingMag
Room 39...10 Gluten-Free Holiday Traditions...10 ON THE COVER:
Publisher Jill Dutton 913-944-1298 jill@evolvingmagazine.com Editorial Assistants Aaron Lerner Judy Kirkpatrick
“Rainbow Quartz”, 2010. Sherrie Taylor is a holistic bodywork practitioner and an experimental visual artist currently residing in Lawrence, KS. View her online portfolio and any upcoming art venues at: www.sherrietaylorart.com or she can be reached at sherrietaylorart@gmail.com
Contributors Laura Degnan, Denee Jordan, Bethany Klug, Jude LaClaire, Gia Maisch, Aluna Michaels, Bonnie Rabicoff, Nancy Russell, Daniel Scharpenburg , Suzette Scholtes Advertising
Ad Design Susan Prout
Departments:
Web Design Jann Baker Karen E. Cowdry
Connie “Crash” Humiston
EVOLVING© 2014 all rights reserved. The opinions expressed are those of the authors. The articles in EVOLVING are not meant to represent any form of medical or psychiatric care. No portion of the publication may be reproduced without express written permission from the publisher. Distribution by PDS, Inc.
Wisdom Within Journey to Wholeness Holistic Health Food First!
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In the Kitchen w/Bonnie Horoscope Events
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News After The Wreck: How to Navigate the Medical Circus and Legal Loopholes, a new book by Wendy Teague Doctors and Insurers and Lawyers, oh my! Wendy Teague’s After the Wreck helps people navigate the three-ring circus of the U.S. medical, legal and insurance systems. Wendy was driving to work when a car charged out of nowhere and rammed into her vehicle. She had to relearn how to read, write, speak and feel joy again. In After the Wreck, she shares the stages of healing traumatic injuries, both physical and mental, and the journey of reclaiming your humor and joy. She does so with the intention of making a difference in the experience of anyone or their loved ones going through similar challenges. Wendy teaches the modalities and techniques for your empowerment. She also trains readers on how to deal with a system biased against car accident victims, and much more. In fact, one of Wendy’s doctors is using After the Wreck in her classes. “After the Wreck is not just Wendy’s story, it’s the story of countless people who learn to relive their lives after a catastrophic injury. Knowing that Wendy made it through will inspire those following in her footsteps.” — Matthew R. Grundy, Grundy Disability Group, LLC “After the Wreck will be seen as controversial I’m sure. I admire someone who is willing to tell the painful truth
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from her own perspective, and somehow keep it humorous, too.” — Dr. Joe Rubino, Creator, LifeOptimizationCoaching.com and TheSelfEsteemBook.com. After the Wreck is available at www.AftertheWreck.com (a website with so many resources!), Aquarius in Westport and Amazon.com. An Energy Practitioner and Consultant, Wendy has introduced hundreds to the culture and benefits of energy healing. Before shifting into full-time energy practice in 1997, Wendy had a successful 20-year career in the corporate arena as a computer systems analyst. To book Wendy, contact her voice mail at 816-833-8304, or visit www.AfterTheWreck.com.
News The Whole Heart Solution Reveals Secrets to a Strong, Healthy Heart for Life The number one killer in the Western world is cardiovascular disease. Millions exhibit risk factors including high blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, but more than 75 percent of heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular events are preventable. In his new book, The Whole Heart Solution, cardiologist and clinical professor of medicine Dr. Joel Kahn, MD, reveals the simple but powerful ways to make yourself heart attack proof. Nutrition Rx: Some of the foods we believe might be healthy are the complete opposite, and similarly, other foods are so good that we should think of them as medicine. Learn which foods harm and which foods heal, and follow Dr. Kahn’s nutrition-based prescriptions to enjoy coffee in moderation, skip processed foods and avoid eating meat with hormones and antibiotics. Food Prep Rx: What we choose to eat is only half the nutrition equation. How we shop for, store, cook and consume it matters, too! Adopt new habits like fasting for 11 hours each night, avoiding heart AGErs with smart cooking techniques and breaking the record for the person who eats the slowest. Fitness Rx: Prolonged sitting is a life-robbing activity, but running repeated marathons can be equally dangerous for your health. Instead, it’s best to incorporate shorter bursts of movement into your day – take a fiveminute mid-day walk, never fast-forward through a commercial, “de-motorvate” your life and stand whenever possible. Emotional Health Rx: Stress, depression and anxiety have a direct impact on the heart, increasing the risk of dying from heart disease or stroke. To counteract them, Dr. Kahn recommends healing activities like practicing yoga, having sex, cuddling with a pet, clocking seven to eight hours of sleep each night and embracing volunteer work. Eco Rx: More than 80,000 chemicals are in common household products like toothpaste, plastic food containers and even cell phones; some directly contribute to heart disease while others lead to health problems like low fertility or thyroid dysfunction, which indirectly harm the heart. Dr. Kahn’s tips include ditching plastic water bottles, cleaning with natural products, airing out dry cleaning, creating a BPA-free kitchen and switching to natural beauty products. Supplement Rx: Few topics in the medical world divide health professionals more than vitamins and supplements. Dr. Kahn recommends taking natural multivitamins, getting adequate vitamin D and more. The Whole Heart Solution provides a complete and modern approach to preventing and reversing heart disease, with a series of prescriptions ready to be put into action. For more information, visit http:// www.rdtradepublishing.com/book_display.php? isbn13=9781621451433.
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Holistic Online Directory EvolvingMagazine.com
Karen Harrison, Ed.S. Licensed Professional Counselor Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Reiki Master Teacher
REIKI
• REIKI SESSIONS • REIKI CLASSES • CEU’S FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS COUNSELING • SEXUAL ISSUES • RELATIONSHIP/FAMILY • SPIRITUAL CONCERNS
• MANY INSURANCE PLANS COVER TANTRA • CLASSES & SESSIONS
816-523-4440 www.KarenHarrison.net Karen@KarenHarrison.net 8301 State Line Road, Ste 216 Kansas City, MO 64114
Wisdom Within—by Suzette Scholtes Christmas Memories — and Yours?
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ld family movies show girls, about ages four, five, and six in tight Shirley Temple rollers, wearing plaid dresses and grinning ear to ear. It is Christmas! Dad built that ranch house in a suburb of Chicago, brick by brick, in a strange orange shade. I loved that house. I remember the dark paneling in the living room with brass strips between the panels. I remember Mom’s black and white kitchen floor with red counter tops. I still see the huge porch and large yard. I hold a sacred memory when my baby sis and I played a fantasy game, and we became so involved that hours passed by like magic. As a first-grade student, we brought favorite toys to school. I display my ballerina doll on the nun’s desk, moving her through splits and leaps. The boys rolled their eyes, impatient for the trains and cars. I sensed the nun liked my doll, but she held her lips grim, as if approval of a doll was frivolous, not proper. The year Santa showed up on Christmas Eve with a two-seater bicycle, my first thought was that the older kids would hog the bike, and I would seldom ride. Later, Dad made sure democracy ruled, and I pedaled quite content on the back seat. I remember resting in a twin bed with my sister, fully dressed, waiting to attend midnight mass. I clutched a charm bracelet in my hand in fear of losing it. I loved that gift despite the fact
it soon made black marks on my wrists. Yet, it was charming! Christmas lights could not brighten the grief the year Mom died. It was our last family gathering at the farm. We were women now with husbands, homes and babies of our own. Family traveled from the east coast, and the south to share time together, not talking much, but comforted in our mutual feelings of loss. I loved that Christmas. I felt more bonded to my family than ever before. I host the family gatherings now. A year or so ago, I emailed all, asking to honor a few guidelines: Basic stuff, such as arrive on time — not too early, nor too late. Do not drink too much, or use swear words in front of the children. If you drop it, pick it up. And if you spill, clean it up. “Ha!” is the email I received back from my brother. “Do you really think anyone will follow these?” They did show more respect, as no
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one swore in front of the children, and no one drank too much wine, and the carpets did not need cleaning after they left. Success! Some therapists suggest, “Don’t expect too much around the holiday.” I see where that may help those who are alone, or away from family — but for me my motto is “Expect it all!” As for you, reader friend, may the magic be in the air, lift your heart and fill your spirit. Merry. Merry. Suzette Scholtes is the director of The Yoga School of Therapeutics, 10400 W. 103rd St., Overland Park. Her hundreds of non-fiction columns over the years have won awards. She welcomes your comments at info@theyogastudio.com, or 913-492-9594
Journey to Wholeness—by Jude LaClaire, Ph.D. ‘Tis the Season
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his is the season of the Plaza lights, brightly colored packages and so many ‘shopping days until Christmas.’ Mental health practitioners try to stay the tide of depression caused by less daylight, High Holiday expectations and nostalgia about “Christmas past,” (or the Christmas that never was). What can you do for yourself, and the people important to you, to make this holiday one of deep gladness and open giving and receiving? Most of the world’s religious and spiritual practices have winter celebrations of light. The Winter Solstice, December 21, is the time to mark the longest night and the shortest day. Christmas marks Christ’s birth, of light coming into the world. Hanukkah celebrates the “Festival of Lights,” honoring the deliverance from the darkness of an enemy to the light of freedom. The Islamic observation of Ramadan, which moves according to the lunar calendar, is a time to recharge and strengthen faith, doing good deeds and fasting, celebrating spiritual light. In the Buddhist tradition, New Year’s Day marks the first day of the first month, the beginning of the year, and the start of spring. It is a time to celebrate a fresh start, make determinations and do good deeds. The Hindu celebration of Diwali, or “Festival of Lights,” celebrated for five days beginning November 5, symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Many people become depressed at this time of year because, instead of taking time for inner reflection, going into the darkness, to emerge with new life, light and joy, we run to outer activities, focusing on material things and spending. We run out of energy and fail to recharge. How do you want to celebrate the season of light, new life and good deeds in the way that is healthiest for you, your family and loved ones? Think about what would help you, your family and friends connect with each other, showing appreciation and creativity. Have a family meeting sharing ideas about ways to celebrate. Perhaps everyone would be relieved to do something simpler, more meaningful and more personal. Once you, your family and special friends decide what to do, the sky is the limit. You can have fun, be creative and re-energize
It is a good time for those who “always” like to give, to think about letting other give to them. It is a gift to receive. in ways that feel good to everyone. One family I know decided to give one gift that would be a service for another family member. They found that they each paid more attention to each other, spent more time with each other and developed a closer family. Drawing names has always been part of my family tradition and simplifies the gift-giving process. Children develop self-esteem and a sense of competence by thinking of gifts for others and then making them. We all need to have a sense of being loved, of belonging and of competence. Giving and receiving heartfelt gifts that are simple and given from the heart would help anyone feel loved and included. Being responsible for thinking about others, making something, or giving some personal service, can boost a sense of competence. It is a good time for those who “always” like to give to think about letting others give to them. It is a gift to receive. You are helping someone else feel good about themselves — responsible, thoughtful and generous. Gracious receiving is as good for mental health as generous giving. So, this year, fight the dragon of depression, the monster of no time, no money, no energy...with the gift of taking time for yourself to choose how you celebrate this season. Find your own unique and personal way to make this season one of light, new life, renewed energy and the passage from darkness to light.
Skin. Credible.
Jude LaClaire, Ph.D., LCPC is a counselor, educator and author. For counseling appointments, seminars, training, speaking engagements or information on Neurobehavioral Programs or Imago Couple Therapy call 913322-5622. For more information about Jude LaClaire or the Kansas City Holistic Centre go to www.kcholistic.com jude@kcholistic.com. EVOLVING… A GUIDE FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING
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Holistic Health—by Nancy Russell, M.D. Make Healthier Holiday Choices: 10 Tips for an Optimal Holiday Experience
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he holidays are filled with family traditions that include some of our favorite meals and foods. As you celebrate, think of little changes you can make this holiday season to create healthier meals and active, peaceful days. The following are helpful tips for those changes: 1.
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Enjoy all the food groups at your celebrations. Prepare whole-grain crackers with hummus or guacamole as an appetizer; add unsalted nuts and black beans to a green leafy salad; use almond milk instead of heavy cream or cow’s milk in your casseroles. Make sure your protein is lean and organic, free range if possible. Good choices are turkey, wild Alaskan salmon, lamb, roast beef and beans. Serve brown rice with beans to make a complete protein for the vegetarians. Cheers to good health by quenching your thirst with low calorie options. Drink water with lemon or lime slices, or seltzer water with a splash of 100 percent fruit juice. Bake healthier by substituting unsweetened applesauce, or mashed ripe bananas, instead of butter. Try cutting the amount of sugar listed in recipes in half. Use spices such as cinnamon, allspice or nutmeg to add flavor instead of salt. When salt is used, Mediterranean of Himalayan sea salts are good choices. Tweak the sweet for desserts. Try baked apples with cinnamon and a sprinkle of sugar and nuts instead of apple pie. Invite your guests to make their own parfait with colorful, sliced fruit and low -fat yogurt. When fats are used, better choices are organic coconut oil, butter or cold pressed, extra virgin olive oil. Enjoy leftovers. Create delicious new meals with your leftovers. Add turkey and beans to soups or salads. Use extra veggies in omelets, sandwiches, or stews. Make exercise a part of the fun! Make being active part of your holiday tradition. Have fun walking and talking with family and friends after a holiday meal. Give gifts that encourage others to practice healthy habits such as workout CDs, the FitBit app, dance lessons, pedometers, running shoes, and reusable water bottles. Be the life of the party! Laugh, mingle, dance and play games. Focus on fun and enjoy the company of others. Laughter is a wonderful natural medicine! Give to others. Spend time providing foods or preparing meals for those who may need a little help.
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Give food to a local food bank, or volunteer to serve meals at a shelter during the holiday season. 10. Take time for you to relax and breathe and connect. Plan time for your busy activities and schedule down time also. Even if it is just five minutes a day of deep breathing and prayer or reflection time, just do it! Connect with your spouse or other loved ones about your feelings, and work together to get the extra holiday chores accomplished.
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Nancy Russell, M.D. has been a holistic Internal Medicine physician in the Kansas City northland for over 30 years at 5140 N. Antioch Road in Kansas City, MO. Her phone number is 816-453-5545 and website is www.nancyrussellmd.com where you can get more information. Dr. Russell is board certified in holistic medicine and is a member of the American Holistic Medical Association and a prior board member.
Kimberlin Hypnosis, LLC Kathleen Kimberlin, CHt Mention this add and receive $30 off each session thru January 17.
www.HYPNOSISEMPOWERS.com Call for free consultation 816-305-8418 Appointments call 816-612-8740 At the Awaken Whole Life Center
Jay Peters M.S., D.MIN
For a consultation call: (913) 339-9591 • Licensed Professional Counselor • Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist • Certified Hypnotherapist • Addiction Specialist • Spiritual Counseling
8700 Indian Creekway Park, Suite 220 Overland Park, KS 66210 www.drjaypeters.com
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Food First!—by Bethany Klug, D.O.
In the Kitchen with Bonnie—by Bonnie Rabicoff
Gluten-Free Holiday Traditions
Room 39
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luten containing f o o d s have had a key place in our holiday meals. Now a few of us know gluten is troublesome, so I am working to establish a new tradition of gluten -free dishes alongside the rolls, bread crumb stuffing and oyster cracker dressing of our childhood. This dressing recipe is adapted from Rainbow Green Live Food Cuisine, by Gabriel Cousins, MD and the Tree of Life Café Chefs. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, use half the amount listed of dried herbs. If you don’t have a dehydrator, use two silicone mat lined cookie sheets instead. Sweet Abundance Stuffing 2 cups almonds, soaked in water for 12 hours 2 cups walnuts, soaked in water for 2 hours 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries, soaked in water for 3 hours 1 cup thinly sliced apples 1/2 cup olive oil 2 TBSP fresh sage 1 TBSP fresh thyme 1 TBSP fresh oregano 1 TBSP dried poultry seasoning 2 tsp cayenne pepper 2 tsp cracked black peppercorns 2 tsp sea salt Drain almonds, walnuts and dried fruit. Process almonds and walnuts in an “S” blade food process for about one minute or until semi-fine. Add apples and 2 TBSP soaked raisins and pulse for another 30 seconds. Transfer mixture to a mixing bowl. Add all remaining ingredients and mix well. Form the mixture into small loaves no bigger than 5-inches long, 3-inches wide and 1-inch tall. Place loaves on Teflex dehydrator sheets and dehydrate for 2 hours at 145 degrees. Flip loaves over by placing a tray with a mesh sheet on top of the loaves, flip the tray over, then remove the tray and reflex sheet. Dehydrate for 2 hours more at 115 degrees. Alternately, place the loaves on a
cookie sheet lined with a silicone mat. Bake on the warm setting of your oven for 2 hours. Flip in a fashion similar to above using a another silicone mat lined cookie sheet and bake for 1 hour more. Stuffing should be soft and warm when served. My friend Natasha makes the best raw flat bread. It’s thick and moist like bread, but denser. As in the recipe above, you can use the low setting of your oven and two silicone mat-lined cookie sheets if you don’t have a dehydrator. Cranberry Flatbread 1 cup almonds, soaked in water for 12 hours 1 3/4 cups water 1/4 cup olive oil 1 1/2 cups flaxseed, ground 1/2 cup dried cranberries or other dried fruit, chopped into roughly 1/4” pieces, Drain almonds. Blend almonds, water and oil in a high-speed blender until smooth. Pour mixture into a mixing bowl. Stir in ground flaxseed and stir until doughy. Fold in dried fruit. Spread evenly onto a Teflex dehydrator sheet. Use a spatula to smooth and straighten the edges. Dehydrate at 115 degrees for 2 - 4 hours. Flip onto a mesh dehydrator sheet and peel away the Teflex sheet. Dehydrate for 2 - 4 hours more. Alternately, spread the dough as above on a cookie sheet lined with a silicone mat. Bake on the warm setting of your oven for 1 - 2 hours. Flip in a fashion similar to above, using another silicone mat-lined cookie sheet and bake for 1 - 2 hours more. Cut into bread size rectangles and enjoy. Bethany Klug DO is a physician for whom food is a doorway to personal, community and planetary health. Learn more about how she helps people live a lifespan of health at www.HealthSpanKC. com Learn more about her juice fast on the Health Span blog at www.healthspankc.com, click on HealthSpan Blog at the bottom of the page.
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erkshire Pork is the most popular heritage breed (also known by its Japanese name, Kurobuta). It was supposedly discovered by Oliver Cromwell's army in Berkshire, England where it was enjoyed for its sweet, meaty, well-marbled flesh. The dish is both dairy and gluten free. As most of the components can be prepared ahead of time, this is a good option
for your holiday entertaining. Bonnie Rabicoff is the producer and host of the multi-media foodie series “In the Kitchen with Bonnie.” She has served as the Vice President of Development for KCPT Public Television and the Marketing Director of The Barstow School where she founded and coordinated “The Barstow School Organic Farmers’ Market and Chef Series.” www.inthekitchenwithbonnie. com
Berkshire Rack of Pork with Zucchini Pappardelle and Hominy Prepared by Executive Chefs & Owners Ted Habiger and Andrew Sloan at Room 39 For the Pork 1 4-bone Berkshire Pork Rack, frenched and cut into single bone chops 10 Juniper berries 1 Bay leaf 1-tablespoon black peppercorns 1/4-cup Kosher salt 1/4-cup brown sugar 1 head of garlic Directions: In a large plastic container (1 gallon capacity), combine the brine ingredients with approx. 1 cup of hot water. Stir until all sugar and salt are dissolved (the brine should be clear). Cool down the brine with a little ice and 3 cups of cold water and submerge the pork rack. Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 8 hours. After the brine has worked its tenderizing magic, pull out the chops and dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and pepper and grill. For the Zucchini Pappardelle Olive oil 4 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise on a mandolin about the thickness of a quarter ½ cup chopped heirloom tomatoes (canned tomatoes from the summer harvest work well) 1-teaspoon chopped garlic 1-tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
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Directions: Heat a large skillet over medium-high on the stove top. Add the olive oil, then zucchini and sauté for a couple minutes until the zucchini starts to wilt. Add the heirloom tomatoes and oregano and cook for a couple more minutes. Add the garlic, some salt and pepper and toss until the garlic is fragrant. For the Hominy 1 dried hominy (we use Rancho Gordo in Napa, California) 1 bouquet garni of leeks and fresh herbs Directions: Soak the hominy in water overnight in the refrigerator. Drain the hominy and put in a large pot on the stove with plenty of fresh water. Make a bouquet garni, by tying with butcher string the green part of a leek around some savory, fresh herbs (such as thyme, oregano, parsley or sage). Place in the water with the hominy, bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer and cook until tender but not mushy—about 3 hours. Remove the bouquet and stir in salt, pepper and some chopped fresh thyme or oregano.
Revelations—by Janet Bray Atwood and Chris Atwood Creating Rituals in 7 Easy Steps to Make 2015 Your Best Year Yet
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o you know that there's a unique design to your life? There is. Your mission in this lifetime is to discover that design and get aligned with it. When you do, life becomes fun, things flow easily, the inevitable challenges of life are only temporary setbacks, and you feel that your life has real meaning. Your Hidden Riches are what surfaces when your rituals help you both discover and stay aligned with your life's unique design. Rituals can help you manage your time, your energy and your thinking. Only 25 percent of life can be experienced with the senses. Rituals allow you to connect with and tap into the power of the other 75 percent. Many people think that rituals are religious practices or superstitions. Yet rituals are the "secret weapons" of the world's most accomplished people-from sports stars to corporate executives to world-class performers. What most people have missed is that rituals are essential tools in today's world to improve performance, to stay calm in stressful situations, and to maintain balance in an over-busy life. But what's the difference between a habit and a ritual? We all have good habits and bad habits. In contrast, rituals are conscious, intentional acts we choose to make habitual. Rituals focus attention in a very practical way, and can be tailored to the major needs we all share: • • • • •
Relationships Health, Diet & Beauty Money & Wealth Ceremonial Rituals Family
There are seven aspects to creating your own rituals that create a special feeling and experience when they are performed: 1) Intention — Read out loud the intention you are setting. 2) Preparation and Purification — Create a special spot where you keep the elements for your ritual. Also, take a few moments before you start each time to clean up and wipe off your ritual space.
3) Use of Symbols — Place symbols in your ritual space that are meaningful to you and will inspire you. These could include photos of your family, special mentors or teachers you value, mementos, and anything else that will give personal meaning to your ritual. 4) Activating the Senses — By incorporating fruit, flowers, scented oils or candles, your ritual will have a deeper and more profound effect. 5) Prescribed Performance — Create a specific order to what you'll do during your ritual. An example would be: 1. Prepare the space: take a moment to clean the area, light some incense, arrange your fresh flowers, your fruit or healthy snack, and place your scarf or cloth. 2. Sit quietly in silence for 30 seconds. 3. Open your eyes and read your intention out loud. 4. If you're beginning your day, write out three things you'd like to accomplish. If you're ending, list three things you accomplished. 5. Read a quote or passage from a book that is inspiring to you and reminds you of why you're focusing on this ritual. 6. Quietly speak out one thing you're grateful for — find something you have not expressed on previous days. 7. Speak out one thing you appreciate about yourself — again find something you have not expressed before. 8. Put out the incense and begin working on your project. 6) Repetition — Repeating your ritual over and over will help to ground your intention and create new neural pathways so that your day will always be connected to the intention you set. 7) Invoking the Unseen — This can be as simple as acknowledging that you need help to achieve the goals you've set for yourself and you're willing to accept that help from wherever it may come. Using these seven aspects of ritual as a guide (no need to follow a particular order) you will create specialness in your day and in your life. You'll find you're more focused when you're working, and you don't obsess over your work when you're not. Excerpted from Your Hidden Riches Unleashing the Power of Ritual to Create a Life of Meaning by Janet Bray Attwood and Chris Attwood . EVOLVING… A GUIDE FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING
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Feature—by Dr. Denee Jordan, PSY.D Transcending Anxiety Enter the New Year without anything holding you back; the process may not be easy, but it is simple.
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hen it comes to really changing the behaviors, thoughts, and feelings we have been rehearsing for years, the work required can be significant. A er all, chances are, if you have an anxiety disorder, you are pre y good at feeling nervous and afraid. Think of all the energy you have used up suffering from your fear. What would happen if you put as much energy into prac#cing new behaviors? Anxiety disorders are very persistent and can produce tremendous suffering. Anxiety is natural; debilita#ng anxiety is not. In fact, basic anxiety is necessary. It is our chemical prepara#on for poten#al danger. The more anxious we feel, the more we lose our ability to use our human intellect and the more prepared we become to protect ourselves from life-threatening danger; much like a wild animal. I like to think of it as awareness moving from the ‘front’ of the brain (loca#on of ra#onal, reasonable thinking), to the ‘back’ of the brain (loca#on of basic survival). When we lived in the wild, a rapid shi from intellect to ‘fight, flee, or freeze’, was absolutely necessary; however in modern society, it can create a myriad of problems. We are seldom in truly life-threatening situa#ons. The interes#ng thing is that panic is a reac#on to help prevent us from dying, but it is so uncomfortable it feels like we are dying. In fact, a panic a ack itself can be much more uncomfortable than the supposed danger, and eventually the panic a ack itself becomes the danger. Because panic is at the end of the Survival Spectrum, the part of the brain that can discern the difference between a lifethreatening situa#on and one that isn’t, has already been disengaged. This is why logic can seem so useless when trying to manage a panic a ack. It is supposed to be like this so we are in the op#mal defensive state. In many ways, it can be compared to going into shock when the body is badly injured. The message from the body and the brain is that there is imminent, life-threatening danger. Eventually, the brain automa#cally associates this feeling of terror with a ‘trigger’, or cause, in order to avoid this danger in the future. We believe the cause of our panic a ack is this trigger; when, in fact, the cause of our panic a ack is our lack of ability to recognize and regulate our feelings or
fear responses. Panic a acks do not come out of nowhere. They are at the end of a progressive survival con#nuum. There can also be many contribu#ng factors, besides the trigger, that can intensify the anxiety such as fa#gue, hunger, illness, etc.; all of which need to be taken into considera#on as well. When looking at anxiety disorders it is very important to see how the s#mulus-reac#on cycle becomes progressively worse. The reason being is that the more anxious we become, the more we lose our ability to ra#onally manage our feelings and the less faith we have in our ability to do so. A person becomes afraid of fear itself and begins to live at a progressively more intensive, baseline state of anxiety which, in turn, makes them more suscep#ble to a full-blown panic a ack. Without inten#onally breaking the cycle, it frequently happens again and the baseline anxiety goes up even further. Eventually a person completely loses faith in his/her ability to respond in healthy, manageable ways to general stress and/or the trigger. S/he naturally tries to control the perceived danger (going outside, germs, becoming homosexual, ea#ng certain foods, being dirty and so forth) and this leads to avoidant behavior, obsessive thinking, withdrawal and shame. It becomes a progressively vicious cycle. People with Anxiety Disorders can o en trace a history of ‘original anxiety’. In other words, there is frequently a significant level of anxiety s/he learned to have in their early years that they have carried with them. Remember, anxiety is a natural response to perceived danger, and perceived danger as a child can be significantly more intense than that of an adult. Children by nature lack the skill to adequately manage significant stress and anxiety and internalize it. Nearly every person I have worked with who has OCD or other anxiety disorders has a history of baseline nervousness. Again, recogni#on of baseline anxiety levels becomes an important part of recovery. I ask my clients to use a ra#ng scale for their anxiety levels 1 through 5: • Without bothersome anxiety • No#ceable anxiety — Able to func#on in usual ac#vi#es • Anxiety is prevalent — Interfering in ability to engage in usual ac#vi#es • Anxiety is extremely uncomfortable — Not able to func#on in usual ac#vi#es. Conscious fear of having a Panic A ack • Panic A ack — Physical symptoms (rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweaty palms, lightheadedness, terror, and so forth)
day. The person begins to recognize more subtle fluctua#ons in feelings and prac#ces prescribed skills to regulate them. The person then begins to build back self-trust and sees s/he is capable of experiencing different levels of day -to-day anxiety, recognizing it and regula#ng it. It is essen#al that the person sees that it is a loss of faith in their own ability to respond accordingly to people, places and situa#ons that is the problem. They are afraid of their responses, not of the actual trigger. We wire the two things together in the brain when they are actually separate. The good news is that recovery is possible with compassion, courage, pa#ence and commitment. Recovery is very simple, but usually not easy. It involves a series of individualized physical and mental exercises to re-teach the brain how to respond to different levels of anxiety. These exercises are done daily and monitored and supported daily. The basic idea is that ‘Prac#ce makes Progress’. The more a person prac#ces his/her recovery, the more progress will be made. The goal is to restore a person’s ability to recognize and regulate his/her feelings in an effec#ve, loving way. This recogni#on and regula#on is done consistently whether or not there is an uncomfortable level of anxiety. Human beings func#on be er when we remain in (or return to) the ‘front’ of our brains where we are able to calmly, ra#onally, deal with our lives. We are amazing creatures with amazing brains. We have anxiety a acks as a perfectly natural reac#on to our percep on of intense danger and our drive to survive. We can learn to respond differently as a natural part of our need to trust ourselves, feel safe, and evolve. Anxiety can be crippling, but it is actually nature’s way of trying to protect us. With compassion and commitment, it is en#rely possible to regain the ability to regulate a very natural response to life. It’s simply a ma er of realizing that you had the key to recovery within you all along and trus#ng that you will always have the strength to overcome.
The use of a scale helps to contain the anxiety and helps a person to view his/her feelings more objec#vely. The scale is used as a reference point mul#ple #mes a
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Dr. Denee Jordan, PSY.D is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist. Over her 26 years of prac#ce she has worked with an extraordinarily varied popula#on, including people diagnosed with Schizophrenia, addic#ons, ea#ng disorders, anxiety and personality disorders. Dr. Jordan is the founder of Already Well, a progressive approach to treatment that works on the premise that no ma er your present circumstance, you are already well. Today she serves as Mental Health Services Director for the Excep#onal Children’s Founda#on, which is contracted with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health.
Feature—by Gia Maisch
Step into the Garment of Your Higher Self
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he joys and wonders of the Holiday Season can be the most cherished of all — when hearts are filled with gladness, and a joyful expectancy of hopes and dreams being lovingly fulfilled. Do you know and feel the warmth and closeness of family, the wonder and magic of the Spirit of Christmas permea#ng everywhere? If your heart is light, carefree and full of holiday cheer, spread it around generously. For this world is sorely in need of you and your good #dings! And for ideas in maximizing your offering, read on. If you are feeling burdened this holiday season, it can be a sign that there’s some inner work to do. Within each of us is a precious part that loves life and is passionate about living. If you aren’t feeling that passion this holiday season it may mean it’s covered by the stresses of daily life, similar to when the clouds cover the radiance of the sun. The sun is s#ll there in all of its glory, but with all that cloud cover the sun’s warmth simply isn’t felt. In her book, End the Struggle and Dance with Life, Susan Jeffers, PhD, writes, “Most of the #me we are immersed in fog and heaviness, not understanding that all we have to do is learn how to fly above the clouds. And that’s what transcending to the level of the Higher Self allows us to do – transcend the pe y and focus on what is truly wonderful about living.” Erika Chopich and Margaret Paul, PhD, authors of Healing Your Aloneness write, “Whenever we experience an expansive feeling of love and unity with all of humanity, it is because we are deeply connected within; we are our Higher Selves.” Some#mes too many burdens are in the way. When we aren’t feeling our passion about life it can be a call to ac#on to wade through the surface layers of stress by exploring the deeper feelings underneath, and the myths that keep us trapped and fuel painful feelings triggered by outer events. Not dealing with our painful feelings can lead to all sorts of emo#onal reac#ons, such as reaching for sugary treats that are so readily available nowadays, to alcohol and addic#ons of all kinds, all in an effort to fill up the emp#ness and pain felt within. Authors Chopich and Paul share a surprisingly simple
Stepping into the garment of our Higher Self can deepen our perspec ve about life in profoundly prac cal ways. We may discover that it becomes easier to detach from the drama of living on the surface of life.
and prac#cal inner-bonding wri#ng technique to help us not only access this passionate part of ourselves, but also to learn to skillfully deal with our inner pain. They believe that the inner connec#on and balance that happen as a result of consistently working with this technique teaches us how to “func#on from our Higher Selves, which is our true self, our most authen#c genuine self.” They write, “When a person is open to learning and healing, the power, wisdom and tenderness of the Higher Self can heal any hurt, comfort any pain, and deplete any anger.” In his masterful book Of Pebbles and Grenades, Ramon G. Corrales, PhD, writes, “Events, no ma er how dire, are s#ll just events.” He teaches that it is our response to life’s challenges that count the most. According to Corrales, our work is to “iden#fy the feelings and feel them fully, then act on the message, not on the feeling.” He
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says this is so that we can begin to move through the pain, discover our unique innate capaci#es, find the joy that awaits us as a healing gi and then bestow that gi on a hungering humanity, blessing both the giver and the receiver. Each of us has a choice in our response to life’s events. Will we choose the higher road, or the lower? In choosing the higher road we grow, and in so doing we fill in the dimensions of the souls garment a li le bit more. We are meant to grow into the garment of our Higher Self, day by day, reaching out to our Higher Self for help, and by u#lizing the helpful tools and resources available to us. With enough prac#ce, all of life’s challenges can be regarded as catalysts—gi s in disguise—to propel us ever higher and deeper into our Real Self. Stepping into the garment of our Higher Self can deepen our perspec#ve about life in profoundly prac#cal ways. We may discover that it becomes easier to detach from the drama of living on the surface of life. We may begin to perceive the subtle inner workings behind the drama, and then skillfully begin to integrate the inner message that the outer event’s drama was meant to convey. Welcome these events; this #me of year is rich with opportuni#es to look deeper within. In her book Sacred Contracts, Carolyn Myss writes, “Any external difficul#es are vehicles for you to work on your internal challenges.” Living each day joyfully clothed in the garment of our Higher Self we respond to life’s challenges doing the highest good for all concerned. We are able to rise above anything that is happening around us, yet respond with poise and heart. Take a moment and reflect on how this garment of your Higher Self feels right now, and go become it. Soon you’ll discover that the garment indeed fits, and then you will know that you have become the Spirit of Christmas.
December 2014
Gia Maisch has spent most of her life nurturing others and herself with nutri#on, caregiving and spirituality. A private journal writer for many years, she’s now finding the courage to come out of the closet! She can be reached by email at giamaisch@a .net.
Feature—by Daniel Scharpenburg
Stages of Enlightenment
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hould we talk about the Stages of Enlightenment in Buddhist prac#ce? Plenty of teachers think that we shouldn't. That's been the standard view. I'm wri#ng about the Stages of Enlightenment, as defined by one of the oldest branches of Ch'an Buddhism, the Caodong School. My intent is to explain them in a way that is simple, without taking away from the profound nature of such a discussion. Why? Well, knowing the stages can tell us exactly what we are looking for, and exactly why. Knowing the stages can help us to understand why the insights we have gained provide the groundwork for the next insights that are coming. It's like following a map, or asking for direc#ons, instead of just guessing which way is correct. Enlightenment is acknowledged in Ch'an Buddhism as integra#ng form and emp#ness. The fundamental purpose of prac#ce is to assist the prac##oner in eventually transcending duality, which is viewed as the root of all delusion in the mind. By duality we mean seeing ourselves as truly separate from other beings and from the world around us. We need to understand that everything is connected, not just intellectually but intui#vely. Enlightenment is a culmina#on in which one feels unity with all things. The stages are described as three levels: Seeking the Void, The Rela#ve Void, and Integra#on of Void and Form. These stages are designed as a short expression for a very complex training path that takes us from delusion to a ainment. In the first stage, one starts with a limited view. This view is the area of the mind that we are working on in our prac#ce. We are mired in a stream of deluded thought that is preven#ng us from seeing the true nature of things. This causes our suffering. The way out of suffering is by seeing through that, and seeing our true nature. In the beginning of the path, the true essence of mind isn’t percep#ble, but to one who has entered the first stage it is suspected. This suspicion pushes us forward. It offers doubt that our delusions are all there is. This gives us energy and mo#va#on. Through great training, and the experience of enlightened dialogue (interac#on with one who has walked the path before), the veil of delusion can be penetrated and the essence of mind can be directly perceived. We some#mes call this essence of the mind 'void,' but that is only a placeholder because it can't truly be defined in words. Ch'an training requires a steady and careful progression.
that they are part of a whole. Many describe this as blissful. Only when the duality, void and form, is harmonized can one enter the third stage.
Stage Three: Integra on of Void and Form
Stage One: Seeking the Void This is the level of the ordinary individual: One whose mind contains the true nature, but is obscured by a stream of delusion. We call this true nature the void. The deluded mind must be focused through some form of medita#on or other method of mys#cal prac#ce. The outward form of prac#ce isn't really important. What is important is that the mind must be disciplined in the right way. Seeing the void encourages the prac##oner to proceed further. At this level the prac##oner starts to experience reality beyond delusion. Their grip of delusion loosens on their minds. Once in a while moments will occur in which the prac##oner is completely in the present moment, living in the here and now instead of constantly judging and labeling the world. Their mind begins to become calm, quiet, and s#ll. When the training succeeds and there is a breakthrough, the prac##oner enters the second stage.
The entry to this level sees the void and form coming together. This is a #me when great effort must be combined with medita#ve techniques. The void-mind appears to be one with the physical world. But void and form are not yet integrated. There is some duality because the void is s#ll viewed as separate. This is a very subtle final delusion. This level is completed when the prac##oner can become una ached — neither a ached to the void nor hindered by the world of form. This can occur not just in the act of medita#on, but also in ordinary life. The last step of Stage Three is the transcendence of our mistaken idea that mind exists separately from the world. This process sees the barrier of subject and object dissolve through the power of medita#ve concentra#on. The resul#ng emp#ness in the mind expands throughout the world, overcoming dualis#c no#ons. This represents the transcendence of separate no#ons of void and form and signifies a ainment of the way of the Buddha. It could be said that a ainment of the second stage is a feeling of being connected to everything. A ainment of the third stage is the realiza#on that we are everything, experiencing the oneness that unites the en#re universe directly. Enlightenment sets us free. We can feel the bliss of completeness. In the first stage we have the feeling that we are seeking a certain light. In the second stage we are merging with the light. In the third stage we realize that the light and we are one. And we have been the whole #me.
Stage Two: The Rela ve Void A peaceful emp#ness of mind manifests when one sees through delusion. This is a deep a ainment. This is called rela#ve enlightenment, and is defined as an empty mind (void) that exists in rela#on to the external world, which we call form. As void and form are s#ll not integrated, this is an incomplete a ainment. Through further training, one can begin to act from the point of view of this void-mind in everyday life. In this second stage, the prac##oner starts to feel connected with everything. The borders between the self and the world start to dissolve. The prac##oner begins to feel
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Daniel Scharpenburg is an authorized Zen teacher in the Ch'an Guild of Huineng, in the lineage of Ch'an Master Xu Yun. He has studied and con#nues to study in various Buddhist tradi#ons and teaches a Buddhist Sunday School for children at the Rime Buddhist Center in Kansas City. He also writes ar#cles for the online magazines Elephant Journal and Expanded Consciousness. He leads Medita#on Workshops and Retreats in the Kansas City area and is available for private lessons. Follow his blog at: h p://reluctantmonk.wordpress.com/
Feature—by Laura Degnan
Self-Transcendence Self-transcendence gives us joy in boundless measure. When we transcend ourselves, we do not compete with others. We do not compete with the rest of the world, but at every moment we compete with ourselves. - Sri Chinmoy
T
he word transcendence means beyond or above the range of "normal,” or merely physical human experience, exis#ng apart from and not subject to the limita#ons of the material universe. What does all that really mean? We understand the word ascension, and ascending back to GOD (and part of the universal consciousness)—having ascended, and experiencing heaven here on earth (being on this earth but not of this earth). Transcending is similar to ascension in that you are moving towards something that allows you to let go of ego and come from a place that does not #e you down to the veiled human existence. Personal transcendence is just that, personal. What personal tools help us transcend our thinking minds to a place of peace and contentment? Medita#on is a strong and personal tool that we can use to transcend our busy thinking mind through s#llness. Transcendental medita#on (TM) is a way to transcend the ordinary thinking process. TM is a mantra medita#on that people do at least twice a day for a period of 15 to 20 minutes, siXng, and with eyes closed. With prac#ce and perseverance it can take you to a pure state of consciousness. This tool can be used to
transcend the mind, the ego and the thought process, bringing a full sense of consciousness to the meditator. TM is just one tool in the tool shed that can transcend our personal selves into a higher state of peaceful awareness and consciousness. Another personal transcending tool that we can use to transcend our limited minds and find that peaceful place that resides within all of us is s#llness. Our daily siXng in s#llness is important. S#llness is as important to us as fresh water, or nourishing meals for the body. S#llness is nourishment for our minds and our spirits. Only by siXng in s#llness can we transcend our mind and allow our spirits to quietly communicate with us. SiXng in s#llness is different than TM in that it requires nothing: No mantra, no singing, and no guided medita#on instruc#ons. Simply put, it is siXng s#ll, and when we are siXng s#ll we are quietly transcending our thinking self. Offering a different choice on this personal path is music. Glorious music! Certain types of music can be used as a personal sound-healing tool for transcending the mind and bringing our consciousness to a personal state of oneness and peace. Solfeggio frequencies are gi s that are said to bring spiritual blessings, open the chakras and connect you to spirit and supreme beings. The Solfeggio tone of 963 Hz is connected with the light and all-embracing spirit. Finding music that has this frequency embedded within its composi#on can be a powerful tool in transcending the busy mind, finding s#llness and peace. There are as many as 14-plus different styles of yoga, from Anusara yoga to a quiet Yin style yoga, and everywhere in between. Yoga can be used as a personal tool to bring awareness, s#llness, and can promote ourselves to transcend our own personal awareness to a more liberated state of being. We can use yoga in its many forms as a way to overcome our physical limita#ons. What be er way to lose your thinking mind than by doing certain movements, mental and spiritual
The Solfeggio tone of 963 Hz is connected with the light and all-embracing spirit. Finding music that has this frequency embedded within its composi on can be a powerful tool in transcending the busy mind, finding s llness and peace. prac#ces that promotes transcending through personal experience? In my own personal experiences I have meditated daily some#mes two to three #mes a day, taken yoga classes, and s#ll have found some struggles with trying to quiet my overac#ve imagina#on and mind. I have o en sat trying to meditate, or sit with s#llness, all the while thinking about what I was going to eat for dinner, or why my sister hasn’t returned my call? It is the understanding of the importance of transcending the physical and mental body that keeps me going. This ar#cle is wri en to help you with the personal journey that allows us to transcend limita#ons and grow towards a greater understanding of peace and love. By keeping with this process of transcending, it allows our egos to take a
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back seat and give us personal growth in the form of peace. These tools are not guaranteed solu#ons, but sugges#ve tools that allow each of us to perfect our own journey on this spiritual road towards personal transforma#on and truth. Find what works for you and s#ck with it. The gi lies in not arriving at a certain des#na#on, but how you travel and the journey itself.
Laura Degnan is a RN/ Psychic medium who does channeled readings for those who ask. See Laura and the Indigo Angels at www.TheindigoAngels.com or call 913-709-9458 for an appointment.
Spiritual Horoscope—by Aluna Michaels December 2014 Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) Happy birthday Sagittarius! Exciting relationships possibilities are happening. You can meet someone new who makes your heart sizzle, or your current partnership is re-energized! Meditate to visualize your deepest desires, be they about love, career or finances. This is a manifesting time, but you must let the Universe know what you really want! You’ll also develop greater intuition, so trust your gut. Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) Meditation heals childhood wounds that keep you from intimacy, and also prosperity. Be okay with being fulfilled emotionally and financially! What family beliefs have limited you? Write about them. Then tear the paper up and declare your freedom. Also spend time in the mirror affirming your appearance. Quit being mean to yourself when it comes to your body and face! Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) The Universe is pouring lots of energy into you, both physically and emotionally. If you’ve felt tired and drained, you’ll feel vitality. If you’ve been depressed,
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you’ll feel uplifted and inspired. The key is to release the old identity you’ve formed of being a sad, struggling person. Forgive the past so you’re open to be brand new. You’re being rewarded for hard internal work, so trust the blessings available now! Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) Prosperity is right at your fingertips, but maybe you can’t manifest it. Meditate and release resentments accumulated over the past two years. Be they about yourself, others or circumstances, they’ll block abundance, so let the go! By January you’ll not only be richer, you’ll also be physically energized and emotionally optimistic. Also, make new friends who are positive, supportive and upbeat. Aries (March 21 – April 19) Uranus, the planet of breakthroughs moves direct in your sign! You’ll feel energized and excited. Have courage to make changes to your self-image, relationships and attitude. It’s time to walk your talk and be your authentic self no matter what! You’ll see positive changes with career and close partnerships. People are drawn to your new level of magnetic spiritual energy, even though they’re not sure why. Enjoy your empowerment!
Taurus (April 20 – May 20) Uranus moves direct and gives breakthroughs in unconscious self-sabotage. Your “comfort zone” can actually cause major discomfort! Release old patterns — relax into the flow of change and spiritual improvement. Re-commit to a meditation practice. Be it yoga, journal writing or quiet sitting, have place at home that’s your sacred space. The more you use it, the more saturated with power it becomes! Gemini (May 21 – June 20) Meditate this month on gratitude and intimacy. Think about the people in your life who are spiritually aligned with you. Make efforts to reconnect with those who you’ve been too busy to talk with. Focusing this way also attracts new friends who can be like soul mates! Romantic relationships deepen as you reveal more of your truth. Sexual fears can also be resolved as the quality of your bond improves. Cancer (June 21 – July 22) You can be starting a new relationship, or creating more closeness in a current one. This month is especially good for meditating together and clearing up any misunderstandings and clarifying expectations. You can also have unexpected career breakthroughs. Don’t be intimidated by the opportunity — you can do it! Even though it surprises you, it’s karma lined up by the Universe and you deserve it! Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) You have a nurturing heart, and it’s time to put yourself on top of your caretaking list. Even if you’re crazy busy for the holidays, treat yourself to a massage or take long baths. Have quiet reflection time, even if just a few minutes a day.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS from Evolving Magazine
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December 2014
Relationships will transform as you emit more love from your heart chakra. When you’re the center of your world, you become like the Sun and pour out energy without feeling drained. Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) The Universe wants to open your heart. In order to have an inflow of fresh energy, you need to clear out old disappointments and resentments. Meditate and see the past wrapped in pink light and drifting away. You’ll be open for new people, or current partnerships will heal and blossom. You’ll also have your mind receptive for prosperity, so meditate about and release old debts and money issues too! Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) No matter how long you’ve been partnered, or how engrained negative relationship issues seem, all patterns can be smashed! Uranus has an 84 year orbit and can free you from “stuff” that seems to hopelessly ensnare you. It’s a powerful energy you need to surrender to. Your soul is here to learn about love and bonding. Meditate and give the Universe all your ideas, experiences and memories regarding relationships. Become teachable with a Zen mind and you’ll be amazed at the new karma that comes in. Fulfillment and bliss is possible! Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) How can you bring your spirituality into “regular life”? Try meditating at work by just doing deep breathing when under stress, or when you see others under stress (send them good energy!). Your inner poise will be noticed as “an indefinable something” that brings advancement and praise. Also, when speaking with family, be gentle as you share insights about their behavior. Then they can take it in and make positive changes.
Aluna Michaels is a second-generation astrologer and Soul Evolutionist practitioner. She also holds a Masters in Spiritual Counseling and has been teaching and consulting for more than two decades. Her book “Spiritual Gifts of the 12 Astrological Signs” is now on Amazon in Kindle version. Ms. Michaels is available for appointments in her home or by phone. Call (248) 583-1663 or visit alunamichaels.com
EDUCATION
ALTERNATIVE HEALING At the Healing Place, Massage, Cranio Sacral Therapy, Reiki, ChanRi, Chakra Balancing, Astrology, Tarot, Past Life Regression, Intuitive Bodywork (816) 415-2607 www.atthehealingplace.com Nature Spirit Holistics Energy Medicine expert Author Cathleen Miller—Intuitive therapies, Conscious life counseling, Spa events, seminars www.livingthespiral.com 913-499-8514
Shelly Wilson, Reiki Master ~ Intuitive, Intuitive offers loving guidance enabling you to heal and grow. Live an authentic life and LOVE yourself in the process! ShellyRWilson.com 918-782-4778
Maya’s Oasis Transforming, Healing & Inspiring Women with Reiki, Intuitive Guidance, Online Healing Circle & Bellydance MayaZahira.com 816-476-maya (6292) Integrative Therapies by Sarah P. Chapman Aromatherapy Massage, Raindrop Treatment, Vitaflex, Pressure Point Therapy 913-549-0280 www.sarahpchapman.com Bhasweti Gewhas, Ph.D., Life Coach, Hypnotherapist, Psychic Reader, past lives, angels. Abuse/trauma/grief/stress relief. 913.660.0669 www.stressfreetools.com; bhasweti@gmail.com
Elizabeth HunterHunter-Blank, LCSW Assisting clients with grief & loss, chronic & serious illness, relationship issues, depression & anxiety. 4104 Central St. KCMO 64111. 816.582.3877 Sheri Parker Taylor, LSCSW, Psychotherapist Master Coach/Trainer of Hypnosis & NLP WWW..KansasNLP.com;785-224-5798 Merci379@aol.com Individual Sessions/Classes Martha Childers, LPC EdS; 816.892.0803 Women, Couples, 50+, LGBT, Aging in Place End of Life Preparations, Financial, Career www.ChildersCounselingService.com
Ronnie Wilson, Energy Healer, CranioSacral Therapist Creator of Quantum Shift Energetix 913-906-9986—www.innerjourneyhealing.com Randy Veitenheimer: Creative Energetic Health 30+ years training in Eastern, Western & Native traditions.(785) 766-9253 www.meetup.com/ Health-and-Healing-with-Energy-Medicine/
ENTERTAINMENT Laura Packer, storyteller, writer, coach Storytelling for families, adults, corp/private events. B-days, weddings, funerals, holidays, classes 781-526-7255 www.laurapacker.com Karen Elise - Psychic Entertainer & Coach Tarot / astrology - corporate / private events Fun for weddings, birthdays & graduations 913-636-9502 - www.KarenElise.com
HYPNOSIS/EFT
Village Wellness Connection: Therapeutic Massage techniques, Professional Counseling, Meditation/ Yoga & more. 816-803-8056, Jomaco821@hotmail.com www.V-WellnessConnection.com
Dr. Jay Peters Marriage & Addictions Counselor. Smoking/ Weight Mgmt. Hypnosis. Regression/Past Life Hypnosis 913-339-9591 www.drjaypeters.com
Holos University Graduate Seminary Studies in Spirituality & Health. Graduate degrees grounded in scholarship, intuitive inspiration, self-development & Research ~ 888-272-6109
ENERGY WORK
Justin & Sharon Orth - Spring Forest Qigong Practitioners/Healers and Certified Qigong Level 1 Instructors. EFT (BAS/ADV) www.meetup.com/Spring-Forest -Qigong-Meetup-Group/ (913) 244-0167 for info.
COUNSELING
NUTRITION & WELLNESS
New Day Hypnotherapy, LLC Carol Henderson, CH. Stress, Fears, Stop Smoking, Lose Weight, Grief & more. www.newdayhypno.com 913-908-6907 Alternative Healing Modalities by Sherri "Shakti" Mack Past-life Regressions, Quantum Hypnosis, & more! 913-514-2644. bahasherri@yahoo.com
LIFE COACH Healing Thru Music and Life Coaching For more info. Contact Kathleen (913)206-2151 or Klmamuric@yahoo.com $25.00 per session. Laura Wolf, Transformational Life Coach Unlock Your PASSION, POWER & PURPOSE Counseling, Breathwork, Yoga, Shamanic Journeys www.shamansheartsanctuary.org 913-721-6655 Your Dream is Waiting for You. Certified Dream Builder Coach—Business, Relationship, Wealth, Health. Contact Marcy, 660-441-1805, marcyrobinson01@gmail.com
Jacqueline Keitel, LSCSW, LCSW, CPT PEP (Physical & Emotional Power) for Life 816.872.2463 ~ www.pepforlife.com Kansas City Meditation Group of SelfSelfRealization Fellowship Sunday Service 10AM 10819 Wornall Rd, KCMO http://kcmeditation.com/ 816-799-5544 EVOLVING… A GUIDE FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING
Deborah Ann Jantsch, MD, MBA, FACOG, Holistic OB/GYN/hormones/weight loss/detox/ allergies/anti-aging/longevity. 816.719.1588 www.naturallyhealthcareforwomen.com Kimberlin Hypnosis, LLC Kathleen Kimberlin, CHt Smoking/weight loss/childbirth/past life/behavior www.HYPNOSISEMPOWERS.com Call for free consultation (816) 305-8418
PETS Terrier Talk, Christine L. Fuller, Fuller Telepathic Dog Communicator. I am able to listen with my heart and communicate on a level your dog understands and relay this to you. (913) 689-5099. N2paws Offering Doga (doggie yoga) an integrated approach to balance & relaxation for you and your canine companion! www.n2paws.com 816-522-7005
PSYCHIC Shane Knox, Psychic Shaman Intuitive Readings, Shamanic Life Coaching by phone or SKYPE. Schedule now at SHANEKNOX.ME or call 417-866-2248
REAL ESTATE Put the OM in your home, Lanae Blattner Licensed Realtor in Kansas/Missouri Lanaekc.com; 913.633.4930; lblattner@remax.net
RETREATS The Journey Home, Retreat and Event Facility Retreats, Conferences, Weddings, Parties www.journeyhomeretreats.com, near KCI 816-501-6350; info@journeyhomeretreats.com
SHAMANISM Daniel Baxley, Shamanic Healing and Teachings, Pachakuti Mesa Tradition. Sweat Lodges, Workshops. 816-769-7343, www.shamanicpathways.net
THRIFT STORE 20% off your purchase every time you donate. 25% off every Tuesday with Savers Club Card.13233 Shawnee Msn Parkway, Shawnee, KS 913.248.1938
YOGA Yoga ~ over 20 years experience. Emphasis on alignment & safety. New and ongoing students. Seeking Solace Yoga Studio, 7501 Mission, PV, KS 913-302-2439 seekingsolaceyoga.com
MEDITATION Barb Hoffman, MA, LPC, LCSW, in KCMO; 816.561.1116 Indiv./Couples/Family Therapy Depression & anxiety, abuse & trauma, grief & loss, addictions, relationships. Most insurance.
Ayurveda Practitioner, Stephanie Kieltyka Mohr works to find health & relieve disease with recommendations for diet, exercise and
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The Yoga School of Therapeutics Kansas State Education Board Approved School 10400 W. 103rd Street, #14 Overland Park, KS (913) 492-9594; www.theyogastudio.com
Events DECEMBER 2 HOW ENERGY MEDICINE CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE 6-8pm - Beverly Elba leads this interactive healing/ clearing experience where attendees will have an opportunity for a ‘mini-chakra’ reading. Awaken Whole Life Center, 1901 NW Blue Parkway, Unity Village, MO 64065 816-612-8740 awakenwholelifecenter.com DECEMBER 2 SPIRITUAL LIVING EVENT AT CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING CROSSROADS A Gift That Lasts 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. 6424 Vista Drive Shawnee, KS 66218 For more information call (913) 441-1266 Appreciative Giving. All are welcome. DECEMBER 2 CLEARING AND TRANSFORMING YOUR ENERGY AROUND MONEY Begin shifting your energy around money, freeing you to be more purposeful and prosperous. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. $25 Vivian Faulkner, Money Coach and Energy Healer 913-7353183 Core Star Energy Healing School, 6045 Martway, Mission, KS December 4 Christmas Open House Unique gifts and free gift wrapping, 9 a.m.‐9 p.m. Enjoy Open Mic Night with live music, 5-9 p.m., at Unity Village Bookstore and Coffee Shop. unityvillage.org/bookstore
DECEMBER 5 & 6 AKASHIC RECORDS CERTIFICATION CLASS Deepen your connection to your soul with a unique and powerful connection to the Akashic Records. Navigate your experience with the support of Stephanie Forcier, Certified Teacher. Mark Blanchard’s Power Yoga, OP, KS Registration & Pricing, call Stephanie: 816-260-2438 or visit InnerWisdomEvolution.com DECEMBER 6 EDGAR CAYCE REMEDIES – CREATE YOUR EMERGENCY PREP KIT WITH BEVERLY ELBA Noon – 5pm - Gain the knowledge of what you need to have on hand to deal with emergencies using the items recommended in the readings of Edgar Cayce. Awaken Whole Life Center, 1901 NW Blue Parkway, Unity Village, MO 64065 816-612-8740 awakenwholelifecenter.com. DECEMBER 6 - 7 REIKI I & II Learn energy healing skills for yourself and others. Intro to essential oils included. 9am – 6pm, $320 with early deposit. CEs for nurses, massage therapists. Karen Harrison, ICRT Licensed Reiki Master, Leawood, KS. 816-523-4440. karen@ karenharrison.net www.karenharri son.net. DECEMBER 6 & 7 HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AND CUSTOMER APPRECIATION SALE 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Take care of all your holiday shopping needs! Purchase Inspirational Gifts, Gift Certificates
for Massage, Reiki and enjoy the holiday festivities with music, food and fun! At The Healing Place 1539 Maple Woods Dr. Liberty, MO 64068 and 103 E. Gregory Blvd. KC, MO 64114 816-415-2607 www.atthehealingplace.com DECEMBER 7 THE MAGIC OF STORYTELLING W/LAURA PACKER Laura will share new versions of old stories, The Hero's Journey and personal stories as she brings the oldest of human art forms back to life. Audience members may tell their own tale as well. No charge, 2-3 p.m. at Midtown Gallery 3937 Washington (rear entrance of Aquarius); www.aquariusbooks.com. DECEMBER 9 CORE STAR ENERGY HEALING CLINIC 7:15 p.m. $20 Experience the benefits of energy healing. 6045 Martway, Suite 104 Mission, KS Reservations 913-831-4422 CoreStarEnergyHealing.com DECEMBER 13 CRESCENT SPRINGS MYSTIC FAIR Saturday 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Please join us for Readings, Sessions, Sales & Treats! CrescentSprings.net. 913-341-2044 DECEMBER 13 & 14 HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AND CUSTOMER APPRECIATION SALE 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Take care of all your holiday shopping needs! Purchase Inspirational Gifts, Gift Certificates for Massage, Energy Work and enjoy the holiday festivities with music, food and fun! At The
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Healing Place 1539 Maple Woods Dr. Liberty, MO 64068 and 103 E. Gregory Blvd. KC, MO 64114 816-415-2607 www.atthehealingplace.com DECEMBER 14 REIKI LEVEL 1 CLASS Learn about the history of Reiki, how to work with Reiki energy, basics of the chakra system, hand positions for treating yourself and others, plus a variety of ways to use Reiki in daily life, in addition to the healing benefits. $150 (manual & materials included). 9:30am 6:00pm Transcendence Wellness Center. RSVP 913-387-4631 DECEMBER 14 VISTAS HOLY DAYS / HOLIDAY CELEBRATION Creative play, improvisation, theatre and the arts for all ages, celebrating family, cultural and interfaith traditions. No charge, 6-8 pm, Midtown Gallery, 3937 Washington (rear entrance of Aquarius); www.aquariusbooks.com. DECEMBER 16 SPIRITUAL LIVING EVENT AT CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING CROSSROADS Give With Grace 6:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 6424 Vista Drive Shawnee, KS 66218 For more information call (913) 441-1266 Appreciative Giving. All are welcome. DECEMBER 17 HEARTLAND AYLLU WINTER SOLSTICE CEREMONY & LINK UP A free community event with a special candle lighting ceremony and sacred item give away, 7-10 p.m. at White Deer Lodge,
14615 Kill Creek Road, Gardner, KS (just SW of Olathe). More info: Daniel Baxley at rainbowspiritstar@yahoo.com. DECEMBER 21 PUBLIC YULE RITUAL W/LIITHI LUSHEDE COVEN Open and free ritual, celebrating the Winter Solstice, followed by a potluck—please bring a side, dessert or both, and a drink for yourself or to share. 5-9 p.m. at Midtown Gallery, 3937 Washington (rear entrance of Aquarius), www.aquariusbooks.com. RSVP: www.meetup.com/ Kansas-City-Witches. DECEMBER 24 CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLE-LIGHTING SERVICE Celebrate Christmas with an inspiring spiritual experience in an inclusive, loving environment. 7 p.m., at Unity Village Chapel. www.unityvillagechapel.org DECEMBER 28 BURNING BOWL SERVICE Release the past and get ready for a new year through this symbolic ceremony. 10:30 a.m., at Unity Village Chapel. www.unityvillagechapel.org JANUARY 3 HOW TO BREAK OLD CYCLES AND MANIFEST EVERYTHING This 4 week workshop will teach you how to heal your blockages and get anything you desire! 4 Saturdays starting January 3rd starting 10am1pm Transcendence Wellness Center. RSVP 913-387-4631
JANUARY 3 – FEBRUARY 2 GALLERY SHOW W/KARRIE BAXLEY See/purchase Karrie Marie Baxley’s (www.KMarieArts.com) work, some from Dancing with a Thousand Bees, at Darling Yoga, 11711 College Blvd. in Overland Park (across from JCCC). JANUARY 6 CLEARING AND TRANSFORMING YOUR ENERGY AROUND MONEY Begin shifting your energy around money, freeing you to be more purposeful and prosperous. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. $25 Vivian Faulkner, Money Coach and Energy Healer 913735-3183 Core Star Energy Healing School, 6045 Martway, Mission, KS JANUARY 13 LIVE YOUR BEST YEAR: STARTING NOW Does your life need a spark of energy? Are you living without a clear sense of purpose and focus? Are you stuck in your story? IGNITE Your Life! workshop w/Sharon McGloin and Denise Mills, 6 – 9 p.m. (networking @ 5:30), in OP. Only $49; save 20% w/2 or more workshops: www.igniteyourlifekc.com. ONGOING SPIRIT PARTIES! Unlock you psychic gifts and learn your purpose with your friends! Connect to spirit guides! Group Tarot Cards! Angel readings! Your own energy healing! Your astrology conn ection to friends. Plus much more! Host a 4 hour party with drinks and appetizers included at Transcendence Wellness Center-Call for details 913-387-4631
SPIRITUAL LIVING EVENTS AT CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING CROSSROADS December Series: The Greatest Gift Every Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 6424 Vista Drive Shawnee, KS 66218 For more information call (913) 441-1266 Appreciative Giving. All are welcome. ONENESS AWAKENING COURSE Experience the bliss and healing from several aspects of the Oneness movement including teachings, healing processes and an ancient spiritual celebration. Facilitated by Oneness trainer-Angela Reed. Investment-$225, early bird-$199 Unity Church of Overland Park 913514-4986 SERENITY PAUSE™ MEDITATION 7 DAYS A WEEK - 365 DAYS A YEAR, 12:10pm-12:40pm and 5:30 p.m.—6:00 p.m., Myrtle Fillmore Chapel. Love offering. Unity Temple on the Plaza, 707 W. 47th St, KCMO 64112 www.unitytemple.com or call 816-561-4466 REIKI CIRCLE AT UNITY CHURCH OF OVERLAND PARK 10300 Antioch, OPKS. 2nd and 4th Mondays 7-9pm. Love offering. All welcome. Receive a Reiki treatment. For flier email karen@karenharrison.net. 816-523-4440 HEALTH AND HEALING WITH ENERGY MEDICINE MEETUP GROUP Monthly Meetup Sun at 7pm. Veteran energy healer Randy Veitenheimer will discuss various aspects of energy healing followed by Q&A. Find us on Meetup.com for more info.
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FIRST FRIDAYS HIGHER SELF ALIGNMENT TEMPLE “OmniDimensional Transformational Cellular group session.” Remember, It Is Time… 6:30 p.m., $15, Crescent Springs, CrescentSprings.net. 913-3412044 SECOND THURSDAYS THE STONE TEMPLE 6:30 p.m., $15 OmniDimensional Transformational group process utilizing stones, music & energywork. Crescent Springs, CrescentSprings.net. 913-341-2044. ENERGY HEALING SESSIONS FOR CANCER PATIENTS AND VETERANS By Appointment. The Kansas City Healing Project provides energy healing sessions for cancer patients and veterans. Our clients have been experiencing a reduction of their stress, anxiety and pain levels. These sessions are provided at NO COST to the client. Contact John Hoefer at 816-718-6358 for details. KansasCityHealingProject.org
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