Santa Fe December Evolving Magazine by Evolving Magazine

E volving December 2015 ~ Vol. I, Issue 8

in Santa Fe

A Guide for Conscious Living

Transcendence in Everyday Life Weight Loss: A Matter of Energy? Transcendence Means Down, Not Up Time to Celebrate! Evolvingâ&#x20AC;Śin SANTA FE

December 2015

. . . e v l o v E Into something beautiful. Santa Fe’s newest resource for holistic living offers online and print options for living well.

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Read current articles from both Santa Fe and Kansas City editions

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December 2015

Contents

Publisher’s Letter... 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.

The Best Gift This Season is the One Only You Can Give 11

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.

Transcendence Means Down, Not Up

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.

Transcendence in Everyday Life

Wishing you all the most joyous of holidays, however you may celebrate.

Jill Dutton

How Important is Our Skin's Health?

Stay Connected all Month! *Read the magazine online: www.EvolvingMagazine.com *Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/EvolvingSantaFe *Follow us on Twitter: @EvolvingMag

Departments

Evolving Magazine, LLC Jill Dutton, Publisher Print Layout/Design Alea Smith

Monthly Columnists Valeria Alarcón, Tomas Enos, Erin Galiger, Heather Robertson, Judy Scher Advertising Jill Dutton jill@evolvingmagazine.com

News & Tips Multi-Dimensional Mastery Heart & Business Herbal Wisdom Vitality Foods Revelations Wanderlust Horoscope Events ON THE COVER:

Iona Yabut completed this 20" mandala while in meditation to Buddha Amitabha using lemongrass, berries, organic teas, and watercolors. The artist hopes her artwork will resonate with souls seeking inspiration and divine truth. www.mandalashambhala.com

EVOLVING© 2015 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.

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December 2015

Books

Paradise and Promises Paradise and Promises: Chronicles of my life with a self-declared, modernday Buddha by Marlowe Sand

herself. Paradise and Promises is a spiritual memoir only by coincidence. More importantly, it is a reflection on choices, consequences and reconciliation. Marlowe Sand recollects “Paradise and Promises is the 15 years pursuing spiritual compelling account of Marlow freedom as a student of Sand’s time in EnlightenNext, guru Andrew Cohen. For a Andrew Cohen’s spiritual wife and mother from the community. Even though three remote English former students previously countryside, meeting a published memoirs, including modern-day, radical myself, the subtlety and Buddha bore extreme consequences. descriptiveness of Sand’s Sand captures the interior experience of account surpasses the other being drawn ever deeper into the cult of a contributions.” —William Yenner, lead charismatic and despotic guru. She author of American Guru invites the reader to share her journey “Sand draws you into her experience from love and liberation to painful from the first page. She deftly relays her alienation and, finally, disillusionment. journey, from the initial seduction by Sand doesn’t blame; instead she paints a Cohen. Her frank self-reflections reveal picture of a complex, dangerous the ecstasy and joy, coupled with phenomenon. While she is unambiguous inevitable doubts and disillusionment. about the destructive nature of the This is a book not to be missed.” —Janja community and each participant’s Lalich, Ph.D., author of Bounded Choice: responsibility for its co-creation, Sand’s True Believers and Charismatic Cults reckoning is ultimately with

The Yoga of Relationships Lisa "Astarte" Stakes, L.M.T. NM Lic#7669   

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Evolving…in SANTA FE

The Yoga of Relationships: A Practical Guide for Loving Yourself and Others by Yogi Amrit Desai

you have with yourself. Yogi Desai uses the Yoga Sutras of Pantajali as a guide, combines it with his entirely unique way of defining the Yamas and Niyamas, the first limb of Ashtanga Yoga, and shows you how to apply them In this groundbreaking book on to relationship issues. The Appendix relationships, world-renowned yoga includes outline of the basic observances master Yogi Amrit Desai melds ancient of Yoga, guidelines for day-to-day living, wisdom with modern practicality as he and meditations on healing offers piercing insight into the nature of relationships. This is a must-have book relationships, then shows how they can be for the yogi and yogini in relationships! a path to spiritual and worldly fulfillment. What Yogi Desai teaches is not a philosophy but a system that transforms About the Author: the philosophy of yoga into an Yogi Amrit Desai is recognized as one of experiential reality that transforms body, the pioneers of the authentic teachings of mind, heart and soul. yoga in the West. He is the founder of the This book on relationships is different Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health, the from the hundreds of self-help books on largest in the US, and the creator of the market on how to make relationships Kripalu Yoga. Today he oversees the work. Yogi Desai’s approach is completely Amrit Yoga Institute in Salt Springs, original, yet it hews more closely to the Florida, with its many affiliate branches Sutras than popular psychological and teachers in N. America and Europe. approaches. It doesn’t rely on the He travels extensively giving talks and emphasis of being a couple, working it workshops. He is also the author of out, getting along, accepting your partner, numerous books your children, your boss, etc. Importantly, he takes the reader in a completely new direction so he or she truly sees what is at the root of all relationships. And that is the relationship 4

December 2015

Multi-Dimensional Mastery

Coming to Our Senses From the Ordinary to the Sublime

ur culture has traditionally focused primarily as the only way to interpret information from the world on the five senses of sight, hearing, touch, taste around us, we are frequently left with the feeling of being and smell. However, it has been shown isolated, apart from, and alone – separated from the whole through research that there are more than 53 of life. senses connected to biological human expression. Examples of basic biological senses that are Between 1961 and 1978, researcher Guy Murchie made underutilized or absent in our westernized culture are: an exhaustive inquiry into the sense of belonging, sense of senses by painstakingly community, sense of gravity, sense of scrutinizing hundreds of balance, sense of vibration, sense of “It is because we have a body with seeing without eyes, sense of moods scientific studies. He identified over 80 different and identities attached to color, sense all the energetic structures biological senses/sensitivities, of season, and proprioception (body connected to it that we are able to awareness), among others. We which were subsequently verified by Harvard’s compensate for our lack of connection expand spiritually. ” Biological Laboratories. For to all of these innate senses by creating literary convenience, he dysfunctional ways to have our needs narrowed the senses down to met, such as addictions, violence, and 31 in his book, The Seven Mysteries of Life (Houghton more. Mifflin, 1978). The senses that connect our biology to the whole are According to Michael Cohen, a forerunner in the often seen as our ‘base nature’, but our ‘base nature senses’ burgeoning field of Ecopsychology, and founder of Project actually exist along a continuum and extend into what I NatureConnect, during 26 years of living and teaching in call our meta-senses. Meta-senses are those that help us the wild, he and his students identified 53 natural senses. connect and participate with other levels of reality beyond Every one of these natural senses is an alive and distinct this three-dimensional world. Our meta-senses would sensation. include such things as sensing and/or seeing our auric For example, the sense of ‘belonging’ is more than an fields, chakra centers and other dimensions. When we emotional feeling. It is a biological phenomenon that helps become aware of these meta-senses, we begin operating at us sustain life as well as connect to a higher purpose. As a different level. These meta-senses can be accessed each sense is a link to ourselves and the whole of who we through practice and focused attention, in the same way are, when a ‘sense’ is not accessible it’s as if a part of our we learn a sport or how to fly a plane. body was cut off. When the sense of belonging Our culture conditions us to amputate these connecting to the web of life - is severed and not extraordinary senses – senses we are already wired for - by supported, we instinctively strive to have that ‘sense’ dismissing them as non-existent or by consensual fulfilled even if in less than optimal ways. agreement that they have no practical value ‘in the real To compensate for this lack of connection, we end up world’. We have often heard the statement that we only relying heavily on certain limited and overused senses utilize 10% of our brain. This underutilization includes our such as thought, reason, or language. The mental senses senses. are very important, however when they are used primarily

Evolving…in SANTA FE

December 2015

The body links the ordinary to the sublime. It is because we have a body with all the energetic structures connected to it that we are able to expand spiritually. Our body has an ability to open in a multidimensional way when supported by awareness and practice. It also requires an efficient listening platform, which means that if our physiology is in defense and its focus is on survival, it becomes more challenging to open the gates to all these senses. When the body is relaxed at its core, and able to listen at the deepest levels, it can optimize our ability to pay attention in a multisensory and multidimensional way. This opens the door to realities that are in fact all around us, but invisible to our conscious mind - until we come to all of our senses.

Judy Scher, D.C. is Director of the Scher Center in Santa Fe since 1992. She is an international teacher, workshop leader, and keynote speaker. The Scher Center utilizes cutting-edge reorganizational healing tools including Network Spinal Analysis Care. For more info go to www.HealingWithoutLimits.com or call 505-989-9373

Heart & Business

Time to Celebrate!

his time of year is so full of opportunity and abundance. Opportunity to reflect upon all our efforts in 2015 followed by an abundant amount of fresh wisdom learned throughout the year. It's the continual awareness of the fresh new wisdom that keeps our personal and professional lives rich with insight. People naturally begin to ponder last winter, spring, summer, and fall without much effort. It's an organic occurrence and creating the time to embrace this innate desire offers many golden nuggets of wisdom to take with you into the New Year. Now, there are many things to ponder - people you met, places you've been, employees you hired, budgets that were great, budgets that were a bust, surprising outcomes, and moments of great insight that changed everything. No matter if something is positive or negative it will offer a jewel of learning with the potential to become wisdom. I'm inviting you to celebrate all of your 2015; both the challenging and the brilliant. Celebrating yourself and your viability is essential to keep the energy moving with what's to come. It keeps us light-hearted and in the place of the heart. Celebrations are an action of honoring, accepting, and allowing. Sometimes at first it's tough to loosen up, shake free and open up because often we find ourselves highly focused upon strategy, plans, outcomes, and overall responsibilities. Celebrations build a key ingredient within businessRelationship. Relationships are the #1 most important piece to success, growth, happiness, and insight. These

relationships can be with others however the relationship of wine. you have with yourself is foremost. This primary  Highlight your co-workers and celebrate together. relationship will sail your ship and guide you to your One year I took my team for a day of golf and massages. vision, mission, and dreams. It was lovely. Now granted golf isn't my go to for The relationship with self is sacred and only you know outdoor adventure, however for my team, they loved it! what will support you the most, bring you the most joy, The art of celebration vary for each of us and is and offer pathways to celebrate new beginnings and incredibly important for moral and energy. I encourage endings. you to celebrate something everyday, once a week, or once This month is about celebrating all of you including the a month. It will invigorate your 2016! paths walked to land where you are today. Every single Wishing you an astounding New Year! step and outcome has offered information, feedback, and outcomes that are gifts. Some of those gifts are not easy to accept nonetheless it's an opportunity to grow, evolve, and engage as we move towards our dreams with zest and focus. So how do you celebrate the triumphs and the falls? For me, celebrating reminds me to keep it light and not be so hard on myself. It shakes me loose of tension. Considering you too, may want to celebrate, I created a list of ideas. Here you go: Heather Robertson E-RYT, CTC, CF is an  Give back to your clients, customers or coentrepreneur, facilitator, and mentor, with workers. This feels so great! endless commitment to presence and purpose  Set some free time aside, go to the spa and take within business and life. She is owner of Wide yourself out to dinner. Awake by Design, located in Santa Fe,  Reach out to friends and have a small gathering NM. Need the more formal version or want to where you can all share your year together. know more: www.wideawakebydesign.com  Book a trip that inspires your senses and/or your or email info@wideawakebydesign.com teams senses. This is a huge inspiration booster!  Cook up a new recipe and open a wonderful bottle

Herbal Wisdom

Herb Spotlight:Yerba Mansa

MEDICINAL USES TODAY: Yerba Mansa was used in standard practice medicine in the U.S. up until about 1930. FAMILY: Saururaceae It can be found in many of the old Costanoan, Kawaiisu, Mahuna, and LATIN NAME: Anemopsis californica Homeopathic and Eclectic material Shoshone natives used the powdered root SYNONYMS: Yerba del Manso, Bavisa, as a disinfectant for knife wounds and open medicas and is referred to as an excellent medicine for subacute congestion and sores. The Pauite used a decoction of the Swamp Root, Lizard Tail, Shrimp Root DESCRIPTION: Yerba mansa is a low leaves as a bath for muscular pain and sore inflammation of the mucous membranes. It is an astringent, antiseptic, antifungal, feet. It was also used by most of the growing perennial that most often forms antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and tonic. southwestern Native Americans as a colonies. The edges of the leaf, and Yerba Mansa is used for colds and to especially the stem is often a reddish-silver venereal medicine, especially for syphilis hue. The flowers form white conical spikes and gonorrhea. In Mexico, it sometimes is heal conditions of the mouth, lungs, called Bavisa, and its reputation there as a intestinal and urinary tracts. It stimulates with petal-like white bracts at the base of better fluid transport which helps to healing herb is legendary. It is used for the spike. The whole plant, usually in remove cellular waste which usually abrasions, burns, sores (on humans and September or October, turns a brick-red. prevents the repair of damaged tissue. animals), ulcerated gums, athlete’s foot, All parts of Yerba Mansa are distinctly hemorrhoids, blood purification, digestive Joint inflammation that is caused by a aromatic, especially the crustacean-like build-up of nitrogenous acids, like uric acid upsets, rheumatism, colds, coughs, fleshy root. be helped by Yerba Mansa. It is a diuretic diarrhea and dysentery. HABITAT: Yerba Mansa can be found in that helps to stimulate the elimination of In New Mexico, Hispanic Americans wet, saline or alkaline marshes and it is nitrogenous wastes from joint issues and have long made it part of their herbal often the most successful plant in these the urinary tract. tradition. A teaspoon of the dry ground saline and alkaline areas. Most likely the Because Yerba Mansa is antibacterial root and one-half glass of warm water is largest stand of Yerba Mansa in the U.S. and antifungal, it makes an excellent occurs along the Rio Grande River between used as a gargle for inflamed throats and ulcerated or bleeding gums. They also mix medicine for open sores and abrasions. Espanola and Las Cruces, New Mexico. The dry root or recently dried leaf can be CONSTITUENTS: Yerba Mansa contains punche (native tobacco) and the dry ground root of Yerba Mansa together along used as a Standard Infusion wash or can be many aromatics, some of which are made into a salve. A sitz bath for esdragole, thymol, methylether, linalool, p- with olive oil and beeswax to make an postpartum mothers who suffer from wear effective salve for hemorrhoids. In a cymene, and asarinin. Also possesses and tear of that magical event can find traditional manner, children who suffer Methyleugenol and tannic acid. HISTORICAL MEDICINAL USES: Yerba from stomach trouble and infants affected great soothing and praid healing of minor injuries by doing a sitz bath several times a Mansa has an extensive history of use as a by colic are given relief by boiling the dry day. roots until a red liquid develops. This is medicinal herb. The Pima natives of Both the Native American and Hispanic Arizona used a tea made from the fresh or given in small doses (1-2 teaspoons at a herbal traditions have used Yerba Mansa time), three to four times a day. dry roots to cure a cough or itchy throat. Evolving…in SANTA FE

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for digestive complaints. It will help soothe inflamed mucous membranes and decrease the acidic nature of the stomach. Yerba Mansa is also useful for treating fermentation of the Upper GI and in eliminating flatulence from such. COLLECTING: Yerba Mansa roots can be collected anytime of the year, but are strongest in fall and winter when the leaves have died back.

Tomas Enos studied with Michael Moore in 1990 and then created Milagro Herbs. Erin Galiger has worked with herbs for 10 years. Their philosophy of health and healing is holistic and rooted in the ancient tradition of “Solar Living,” synchronizing our bodies according to the biological time clock, circadian rhythms, and seasonal patterns found on Earth. www.milagroherbs.com 505820-6321 419 Orchard Drive (off Paseo de Peralta next to Kakawa Chocolate House)

Revelations

Weight Loss 2016: A Matter of Energy? Tapping the mind-body energy field to transcend the archaic, one-size-fits-all approach to dieting

ccording to the CDC (centers for Disease Control and Prevention), 69% of American adults over 20 are overweight; 35.1% are obese. Many will resolve to lose weight this New Year’s. However, if we buy into one of the one-size-fits-all diets on the market and don’t explore our own, individual mind-energy fields to determine which foods we should be eating and which we should avoid to shed those pounds, we may never fit the size we dream of. Take a look around you. You see lamps, tables, a television set, four walls, a ceiling and a floor. What you see may only be what you think you see. What you think you see may in fact be but an illusion. You’ve been led to believe that the over-stuffed material supported by four wooden legs that you’re sitting in as you’re reading this is a chair, but reality is based on perception, and your perception of reality is based on an obsolete theory of materialism. In 1921, Albert Einstein was awarded the Nobel Prize in physics for his groundbreaking theory of relativity. With this theory, Einstein reinforced an emerging reality based on the inter-convertibility and transferability of energy and matter. Suddenly there was an argument for a reshaped reality where the perceptible is both supported and continually created by the imperceptible. With his Nobel Prize award, the world was suddenly forced to acknowledge that all matter is comprised of 99.999 percent energy. In 1925, the Nobel Prize in physics was awarded to Dr. Werner Heisenberg for discovering a way to formulate quantum mechanics in comprehensive matrices. Heisenberg’s discovery revealed that all things material were in fact, comprised of energy. In the span of one generation, reality as the world had known it was turned upside down. Solid material objects were suddenly redefined as invisible vibrating particles of energy that gave shape to the mirage that was our erroneous material reality. In spite of the transformational Nobel Prize work of Einstein and Heisenberg, the western world has insisted on holding on for dear life to an outdated Newtonian reality predicated on the five senses. This represents nearly a century of self imposed limitation. Even to this day, if we can’t see it, touch it, hear it, taste it or smell it, for all intents and purposes it ceases to exist. Delving into the world of energy demands that we be willing to reach beyond our grasp, to see the invisible and hear the inaudible. We largely remain a materially biased culture simply because we’re unwilling to expand our consciousness beyond our five senses. Instead of attaining to a higher level of understanding as is demanded by any appreciable degree of energy literacy, we instead insist on forcing our most convenient reality of choice to conform to the limitations of our consciousness. But what are the real possibilities beyond such shortsightedness and ignorance? What might we be missing out on? Imagine if we were willing to stretch our consciousness just long enough to

explore the infinite possibilities that energybased applications might offer. We need turn no further than the world of our ancestors for a hint of viable possibilities. They understood and applied energy-based applications for a variety of purposes including medicine, healing and self defense. Acupuncture, Reiki and martial arts are time-tested examples of energy-based applications that have dramatically improved life quality. So, where medicine and healing have played such an important role in our ancestral energy healing applications, why couldn’t we employ them for our present weight loss dilemma? Einstein and Heisenberg made it clear that everything is energy! You and I are comprised of energy, and so too is food. Whenever two energies meet there is an energetic reaction that is either positive or negative. And so it is when we eat. Some foods make us feel strong, while other foods make us feel weak. As anyone with a gluten intolerance can tell you, even the slightest hint of wheat on the palate can create some very inflammatory energy. There are those with such severe peanut allergies that a mere waft of the nuts will send them to the emergency room in a state of anaphylaxis. But do these profound energetic reactions only take place within our material, body chemistry? The mind produces an energy field that is shared by the body. In energetic terms the mind and body are one. Whatever reactions take place in the body also happen simultaneously in the mind, and vice versa. Remember, the world of matter only appears to differ from the world of energy. We’re led to believe that the only way to experience a negative food reaction is bodily. The truth is food reactions manifest at both a body and mind level simultaneously. This fact suggests a remarkable possibility for diet and weight loss. There are several university studies that have proven that subjects can experience appreciable weight loss by merely thinking about food! It seems that by thinking about feeling full on copious amounts of healthy food such as lean proteins, low starch vegetables and low sugar fruits, the mind-body energy field becomes programmed to support weight loss. The body-mind field represents a new frontier in diet, weight loss possibilities. One energy application that is currently being explored is that of food energy muscle testing. This is a simple procedure that can easily be engaged by two people. A subject and practitioner can interface, with the practitioner placing an index finger gently on the subject’s throat as if to energetically dialogue with the subject’s calorie burning thyroid gland. Then the subject raises their non-dominant arm at shoulder height for a series of Evolving…in SANTA FE

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simple strength resistance muscle tests, as the practitioner audibly calls out the names of respective foods. Those announced foods that elicit a strong subject strength response are representative of the most efficient calorie burning foods for the subject’s prospective diet. The audibly called out foods that weaken the subject’s arm strength, on the other hand, should be seen as foods that will likely hamper subject’s metabolic weight loss efficiency. It’s as if we can be manually tested through our mind-body field for our unique, energetic “DNA like” response. One of the more interesting aspects of this testing is that many foods that are generically considered to be healthy might in fact impose a negative influence over one’s weight loss metabolism. The human mind-body energy field is a subtle and unique medium for food allergy testing. It represents an untapped natural resource that invites us to transcend the archaic, material, one-size-fits-all approach to dieting.

Mark Mincolla, Ph.D., is a natural health care practitioner who has transformed thousands of lives over the past thirty years. Integrating ancient Chinese energy techniques with cutting-edge nutritional science, Dr. Mincolla approaches food as the primary medicine. He is the author of THE WHOLE HEALTH DIET: Balancing Energy and Nutrition to Achieve Optimum Health (Tarcher Penguin/Dec. 29, 2015). www.MarkMincolla.com

Vitality Foods

Vitality Foods for the Holidays!

Healthy Holiday Foods: Turkey is a healthy option when not deep-fried or swimming in “mystery gravy”, 2 – 3 ounces of serving offers a good source of protein, vitamin B, Folic Acid, Potassium and Zinc -- all immune boosting nutrients. Glorious greens, a variety of dark leafy greens alkalizes and cleanses the blood, improves circulation, metabolism and digestion, to name a few. So load up that plate with a variety of veggies! Cranberries optimize your left over turkey! Make Proper food combination: For every meal or snack homemade cranberry and turkey sandwiches, use whole you consume make sure it is properly combined. With 50% grain breads or romaine lettuce. Cranberries are high in of the serving of dark leafy greens or vegetables, 30% of a antioxidants, vitamin C and fiber, which all supports lean protein (animal or plant-based) and 20% of a healthy lowering the bad cholesterol. Pomegranates are another source of fat. This effort will maintain your glucose levels rich source of antioxidants. and keep consistent energy and metabolism. Do not skip Orange root vegetables, like yams and sweet potatoes meals/snack or supplement a meal with a snack, eat when are a great source of potassium, vitamin A and phytoyou are hungry. chemicals that support anti-aging, balance insulin levels, aids arthritis and supports cancer prevention. The squash Hydration: Consume no less than 10 glasses of water family also offers many health benefits so enjoy them as per day, increase intake if you are consuming rich foods and these are in season! Miracle spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice alcohol. Hydration is key for transporting vital nutrients supports your immune system, lowers cholesterol and and oxygen into the actual cell, maintaining metabolism, balances insulin levels. So add these to your tea, coffee, root aids digestion, flushes out toxins, releasing excess sugar vegetable side dish, etc. from the blood, keeps skin supple and supports overall For your health sake avoid all fast foods, highly organ function. processed foods and excessive artificial sweets. Enjoy the Fitness and Sleep: Can’t say it enough! Both of these decadent flavors of real food, as Mother Nature intended. Here’s to your health and vitality! support your optimum health and vitality. Commit to at least 30 minute per day of fitness and you’ll find yourself having a restorative and deeper sleep. he holiday season is upon us filled with its magical and joyous energy, and also filled with temptations for foods that may not necessarily be health promoting. The plethora of sugar loaded deserts; cocktails and baked goods can throw off your sugar levels through the roof… And if not addressed it can eventually have a multitude of health ramifications. So here are some health tips and health promoting foods to enjoy the holidays without forfeiting your health and vitality:

One Great Magazine. Two Great Cities. Evolving Magazine now in Kansas City AND Santa Fe, NM. Read both issues online at:

Coconut Curry Kale with Sweet Potatoes

2 bunches of kale, washed and chopped to bite size 2 sweet potatoes washed and chopped to bite size 2 cloves of garlic minced ½ sweet onion chopped ½ tsp of minced ginger 3 tbs of coconut oil 1 cup of organic/non-gmo coconut cream 3 cups of organic/non-gmo chicken or vegetable broth 1 tsp of turmeric 1 tsp of ginger powder ½ tsp of cinnamon ½ tsp of cumin 1. In a cooking pot add the coconut oil and warm in medium high heat, quickly add the onions and garlic, sauté for a few minutes 2. Add the spices and fresh ginger, sauté for few minutes 3. Add the sweet potatoes, cook for three minutes 4. Add the broth, bring to boil, cover and simmer for 15 minutes 5. Add the coconut cream and kale, stir and simmer for 15 minutes 6. Always choose organic, non-GMO produce and pasture feed/free range animal products 7. Enjoy this holiday side dish! It’s highly antiinflammatory and nutritious.

www.EvolvingMagazine.com Valeria Alarcón is a Holistic Health Coach and Advocate AADP, whose mission is to inspire, educate, and empower individuals who are committed to reclaiming life and vitality through health and wellness. As a cancer survivor Val knows what it takes to reclaim life and vitality, and she is delighted to be of support to her community. For more information visit www.VitalityWithVal.us.

Evolving…in SANTA FE

December 2015

Revelations

How Important is Our Skin's Health?

o matter how you think of it our skin is extremely important. As our body's largest organ, our skin comes into contact with the rest of the world. It not only holds body fluids, preventing dehydration, it also protects the body by keeping harmful microbes out, which lead to infections. Our skin also makes vitamin D when the sun shines on it. Vitamin D is important for the health of our bones and other parts of our body. Our skin helps to keep our body at the right temperature and because it is full of nerve endings, it allows us to have the sense of touch. If we couldn't feel things like heat, cold and pain, we would get badly hurt and not even know it! Why is it then that in the city known for its outdoor lifestyle and healthy eating, that so many of us in "the city different" tend to neglect our body's largest organ? Our skin health is so extremely vital to protecting our bodies and keeping us healthy, that we really ought to pay it more attention. It seems at best we apply creams and lotions to our skin. Creams and lotions and often even 'organic' labeled products can contain harmful chemicals, toxins, carcinogens, synthetic preservatives and other highly processed and contaminated ingredients that have been proven to have drastic long-term effects on our skin and our overall health. These compounds are absorbed by our skin and the toxins can drastically effect our hormone levels, and contribute to liver toxicity, poor digestion, stress levels and weaken our immune system to name a few. By applying these products to our skin on a daily

basis, we negatively affect our body and actually age our skin much faster than we need to. In order to provide nourishment to our skin in a more healthy affective way, we should look for and choose skin care products that are in fact organic and made with ingredients that are grown free of synthetic pesticides, herbicides and genetically modified organisms. Organic products that are truly authentic do not include harmful additives such as petroleum waxes, fillers and artificial chemicals, and unlike harmful synthetic alternatives, pure organic products are healthy for your skin and body. Remember, what you put on your skin eventually ends up inside our body. Also, keep in mind the mind body connection and how our internal wellbeing directly reflects itself on our outer appearance and our skin's health. It is important to look at the whole mind, body, soul connection. Skin can be affected by any combination of various things: what we eat, drink, how much sleep we get, stress levels and many other factors. For example, if you are always stressed, this can impact your skin long-term. In this case, stress-related eczema could develop. From a holistic approach using pure organic products in combination with essential oils to soothe external inflammation, and using aromatherapy, herbs, meditation, yoga, reiki, and reflexology would be well suited to help soothe the inner stress and bring about balance to our whole body which in turn reflects on our outer appearance. Receiving a good holistic facial on a regulary basis, just

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as we get our hair cuts and manicures, using quality raw, unrefined organic products will help to cleanse, tone, moisturize and nourish the skin, brighten our complexion and fight aging skin. Quality facials also promote wellbeing, relaxation, stress relief, reduce fatigue and tension, headaches and sinus issues and fight aging, in addition to boosting immunity and aiding sleep. Achieving optimal overall health is not just about what we eat and how much fresh air and exercise we get. It is time to raise the bar on our skin care practices, and slow down and take the time to care about ourselves on all levels. We should make our skin care routine something we take time to do for ourselves and it will be that much more powerful.

Holistic skin care & wellness specialist Umerah Mujahid of Facials by Razia. Feel free to call 505-216-7888 for more information or to discuss your skin concerns and issues.

Wanderlust

Girlfriend Weekend Getaway: Tuscaloosa, Alabama

uscaloosa is a perfect destination for a girlfriends’ weekend getaway. From a centrally-located train depot, to a walkable college town filled with museums, a river walk with a farmers’ market, farm-to-table eateries, quirky, unique shops, Activities and sights of Tuscaloosa. Left (Clockwise): Lucy Clock Tower at the University of Alabama’ The Jones Archaeological Museum at and even a microbrewery, you’ll find a Moundville Archeological Park; Outdoor gardens at Tuscaloosa Museum of Art; Tuscaloosa River Walk. weekend filled with food, arts, history, and entertainment. abounds. From Civil War to Civil Rights, there are some  Check-in at Home2Suites by Hilton. Within walking interesting historical sites, and of course the Museum of distance of downtown dining, entertainment and Natural History–where the only meteorite ever known to Friday businesses, the hotel features an indoor saline swimming strike a human is housed; plus the Bryant Museum where the history of the Crimson Tide is told. Amtrak’s Crescent train runs from New Orleans to New pool, modern fitness center with personal TVs and MP3 player docks, and spacious, modern suites with full  Blaze the short trail of 15 minutes from downtown York, with a multitude of stops at quaint southern cities, kitchens. There’s free breakfast each morning, as well. to Moundville Archaeological Park to transport Tuscaloosa, Alabama, one of them. Whether traveling  Explore Downtown T-Town by foot. Just a few blocks yourself back in history. This must-see on any trip to the from northern or southern destinations, the Crescent train from the hotel, stop for refreshments at Cravings, a area will open your mind to a whole new Native American arrives in Tuscaloosa at approximately 1 p.m., allowing specialty grocery, wine bar, and beer garden. Then head experience. plenty of time to get a fun weekend started. The train off to explore unique shops like The Makers Market, with  After so much exploring, quench your thirst with a depot is just a five-minute taxi ride from downtown all local hand-crafted items. refreshing afternoon beer at the Black Warrior Brewing Tuscaloosa and the Home2Suites by Hilton, so drop the  Just down the street is the Grand Hall Art Gallery. The Company, then return “home” to your hotel room to bags at your luxurious (yet efficient) room, freshen up, and gallery, located upstairs inside the Federal Building, freshen up and get ready for a night on the town. get ready to explore. features 16 stunning murals created by artist, Caleb  Stop for a wine tasting at Carpe Vino, then step over O’Connor. It’s a stunning depiction to Epiphany Cafe—New American Farm-to-Fork Cuisine— of Tuscaloosa history that you won’t for appetizers. Foods of Tuscaloosa: Left (Clockwise): Appetizer sampler at Cypress Inn; Fruit plate want to miss.  After sampling a couple appetizers, walk just a few at The Side by Side, Country ham, grits, eggs, and redeye gravy at The Waysider;  After an afternoon walking blocks over to The Side by Side for dinner. James Beard Raw cheese from AA Farms at the Tuscaloosa River Market. downtown Tuscaloosa, you’ll be award winning Chef, Chris Hastings, created this concept ready for dinner and the best view of located inside the Embassy Suites Hotel in downtown the sunset in T-town at the Cypress Tuscaloosa. His eclectic approach at combining the Inn, located on the river. freshest local ingredients, a Southern flair and a unique dining experience make for a winning combination.  Visit the Temerson Square Entertainment District and Saturday burn off some calories dancing. Tuscaloosa is, after all, a funky little college town where live music can be found It’ll be a full day of exploring, so every night of the week. enjoy a hearty southern breakfast at The Waysider: Southern breakfast Sunday at its finest.  Enjoy a hearty brunch at Five Bar restaurant before Head to the Farmers’ Market at jumping back on the train. the Tuscaloosa River Market, then take a chance to savor the local For addresses and websites of locations listed, read the flavor, sights and sounds on the complete article at www.jilldutton.worldpress.com. Tuscaloosa River Walk.  Visit the Tuscaloosa Museum of Art where you’ll explore one of the largest and greatest collections of American Art.  Head to Archibald’s BBQ for lunch. Voted #6 on the “Best BBQ in the US” list by USA Today, and #3 on Southern Livings “South’s Top 50 Barbecue Joints,” is located in a small building with just a handful of Jill Dutton is publisher of barstools and tables, but it’s worth a Evolving Magazine. Follow Jill’s travel visit to taste this southern, tangy adventures, Wanderlust: One Woman’s BBQ. Journey of the USA by Rail at  Explore the University of www.jilldutton.wordpress.com. Alabama campus, where history 

Evolving…in SANTA FE

December 2015

Feature

The Best Gift This Season is the One Only You Can Give

omans observed Saturnalia, the Roman winter solstice. Buddhists celebrate Bodhi Day on December 8th. Soyal, the holiday of the Zuni and Hopi, is held on December 21. The Persian Mithra, born to a virgin mother on December 22, symbolizes light, truth, goodness, strength, and friendship. Hindus’ Pancha Ganapati honors Lord Ganesha for four days from December 21-25. Hannukkah, the Festival of Lights in Judaism, lasts eight days. The Yule of ancient Germanic people was their focus from late December to early January. The birth of Jesus in the Christian tradition can last from Christmas Eve on December 24th through Epiphany on January 6. Kwanzaa, an African American observation, extends from Dec. 26 to Jan 1. We see that cultures around the world seem to feel the need to spread warmth and light at the end of the year to those they care about. “Good tidings to you!” they all seem to say. Whether your winter season festivities traditionally last one day or 12, gift giving predominates in them all. Our thoughts turn to how we can honor others at the close of the year. We wonder what gift will share our desire for well being: “Carry this with you in winter’s darkness until a new season arrives – and know I am wishing you the best.” This season, give a gift that will remove some shadow that may have been cast over a relationship or your own heart. Consider one of these five shining gifts this season.

Forgiveness It has been said that forgiveness is giving up all hope of a better past. Although the beginning of the year is often the time people think of starting over, clearing out a mental or emotional space has to happen first. We have to make room to move forward. The winter season is a prime time to lighten a corner of heart, mind, or body. Take an issue you are holding onto and consider whether it deserves to burden us or others. Not forgiving has been compared to drinking poison and hoping the other person will die. We are the ones who pay the price. Forgiving does not mean what happened wasn’t important. We do need to grieve losses. Our pain needs to be witnessed and acknowledged. But then we don’t have to build a room addition for it and move in. There are many simple tokens or symbols to embody this gift of forgiveness. A simple note can contain the words of release

for another, a stone with “forgiveness” on it, a butterfly, symbol of new life beginning again, flying away, and not lingering in futility. The perfect expression will reveal itself to you. It doesn’t matter whether the other person accepts it. You will have lightened your spirit to move forward.

Celebration

Have you felt the overwhelming kindness of being celebrated just for who you are and for no other reason? You can give this tremendous experience to someone else. The writer Gratitude SARK (Susan Ariel Rainbow We have all heard someone say a Kennedy) is well known for hurried, “Oh, thank you,” or we ourselves her exuberant and unexpected have mumbled something similar as we celebrations: of others, life, or rushed around our day. Few of us, however, even each dust mite. Joy in have had our day or night light up with a the existence of a person is a genuine, deeply felt expression of gratitude. sacred experience. We Think back over the year to a time when the remember the wonder and bell really saved you, by someone’s awe of seeing a newborn baby. thoughtfulness or willingness to go the extra That baby is now grown up mile. Perhaps in the pressure of the and among us. Hold an experience, you did not get back to letting Honoring Party. Ask everyone them know how much it meant, even though to create an expression of how you intended to. This is a perfect time of beneficial the person has year to give this gift. There are many been, how the person has brightened the effective ways to say “Thank you.” Coupons world just by being their unique self. for service throughout the coming year can Include good natured jokes and ribbing, say, “Because you cared,” or simply a “remember when” stories, and emphasize collection of positive statements you have what makes that person a one-of-a-kind. written for them that they can use when Handmade posters, poems, songs, memory needed. A small book of gratitude may books are all good ideas. Because it is not suffice, with a note on each page from you to held on a birthday or other expected them. Your imagination can come up with occasion, few gifts can top this one for many appropriate expressions, and you will shining lasting light far and wide catch yourself smiling since expressing throughout the year. If you cannot hold a gratitude lights up your heart as well. party, ask friends to place cards, poems or other tokens with a note in a box that is then wrapped and given to the person during the Support season. What makes you feel supported? Someone listening without giving advice? Someone helping to carry a heavy bag? Blessing Someone willing to take a phone If you have never been the recipient of a call? Simply the gift of time? blessing, entirely too much time has passed Chances are that the ways you feel without one. If you have never given a supported are needed by another blessing, entirely too much time has passed person you know. Give them an without one. expression that you intend to be a A formal extending of a blessing is a support to them in the coming deeply moving and even a healing or year. You may know how they transformative experience. It is not as want to receive that, or you may riotous as a Celebration, but as deeply have to make a commitment to keep in meaningful. touch regularly to find out. Whatever the A blessing has four elements: form, give the person the gift of knowing  Acknowledging a quality you value someone intends to be in their corner, even or want to enhance in the person if they don’t think they need it. That in itself  Noting a time when they displayed is often the support that we want. One that quality woman buys a “Day by Day” calendar with  Speaking words of love and tear off pages. She writes on various ones throughout the year so that the person gets a appreciation for them surprise when they come to that page. “Ah Stating your commitment to be a ha! She is thinking of me!” Another way to blessing to them show support is to schedule loving postcards For a younger person, some add a vision to send throughout the year on your own of a positive future. calendar. Once you set your intention, Adding quotations or verse can help you gratitude will flow. find words you may want to use. Including meaningful touch, such as hands on the other’s head and looking into their eyes can

“The legacy of the blessing tradition is a long one found in every culture. ”

Evolving…in SANTA FE

December 2015

also add significance to the experience. The person should come away from the blessing knowing they are valued. Concluding with a symbolic token, beverage, or treat can provide a serene sense of completion. The legacy of the blessing tradition is a long one found in every culture. We all want to be affirmed, to be sent into the world knowing we have a loving, strong person who cherishes us as we go. The accounts of those who did not feel wanted, accepted, or even tolerated are myriad. Giving a blessing can help lessen this loss. Whether forgiveness, gratitude, support, celebration, or blessing, you are the only one who can give these gifts from your heart and mind. You will experience the truth of the saying, “The giver gains.”

Shirley Fessel offers workshops on Writing for Spiritual Development, the Divine Feminine for women from the Christian tradition, and advanced writing, reading and speaking. Shirley is currently developing a workbook for women suffering religious abuse and domestic violence. She is an educator with DivineBalance.org. Visit her website at writingresearchtraining.com or email her at Fessup2@msn.com.

Feature

Transcendence Means Down, Not Up

ot that ancient wisdom texts are easy to interpret in the first place, but I think some of the sages who studied and decoded the meaning of these documents, despite their best efforts, got it wrong. Reaching enlightenment, greater states of awareness or transcendence isn't about bypassing the emotions. It isn't about living from the upper chakras and going through life forcing positive affirmations and rejecting the existence of the shadow. It isn't about walking around in a selfdelusional blissed-out state while cancer is quietly developing in your colon from the 48 years of anger you haven't expressed. It is easy to be spiritual. It is hard to be human. Yet that is exactly what we embraced when we chose to incarnate as a human being on this planet. One of my favorite quotes by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin sums it up perfectly: "We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience." Several years ago I had an epiphany during a ceremonial gathering. As I watched the convener get triggered and have a less-than-stellar moment in how they chose to handle the situation, it hit me: what is the point of all of this "spiritual

practice " if we can't relate to the human standing next to us? If we can't have an honest conversation about how we feel? If we can't speak our truth and communicate clearly? It's easy to be a mystic on a mountaintop. But strap on unresolved childhood issues, hunger, divorce, differing political views, a mortgage payment, three kids, ailing parents, lack of sleep, corporate greed, getting laid off, and all of the others issues we confront on a daily basis and then try to be spiritual in the midst of "real" life. That is where the work lies. Spiritual bypass is seductive, but ultimately gets us nowhere. Robert Augustus Masters says, "Spiritual bypassing is the use of spiritual beliefs to unconsciously avoid dealing with painful feelings, unresolved wounds, and developmental needs. It’s so pervasive, and largely goes unnoticed, and such actions often do more harm than good." We can convince ourselves we're growing because we meditate, go to church, read enlightening books, and give money to charity. But our upward reach is directly proportional to the depths of our excavating. We must grow deep and broad roots to support the growth above. Otherwise, the tree falls over. The spiritual path doesn't just lead up. It leads down. Down into the body.

Evolving…in SANTA FE

Our mission is to learn how to bring our Being truthful with others starts with connection with Spirit down all the way being truthful with yourself. into our body. To fully inhabit ourselves-6. Embrace your shadow. Our shadow the muck, the beauty, the fear, the love, the represents the unloved and disowned agony, the ecstasy, and everything in parts of ourselves. These aspects are between. To feel our always seeking "Soul, to me, means feelings. To ride the expression. If we deny sublime roller coaster of them and pretend they ‘embodied essence,’ the natural rhythms and aren't there, rest assured cycles of our human when we experience they will still come out. existence. To embrace the they will come out ourselves and others in But exquisite joy and agony of sideways and express as our frailty and our our full humanity - part inappropriate behavior magnificence. To be a at the most inopportune animal, part divine. human bridge between time. As Carl Jung says, heaven and earth, spirit "One does not become Healing comes through and matter. enlightened by embodiment of the soul." imagining figures of So what does being fully embodied look like? but by making the —Marion Woodman light, 1. It starts with darkness conscious." accepting your Now I realize all of this humanness. You are human and divine. may seem like a downer, but the more you Yet it's much harder to embrace our less- can accept your humanness and fully than-perfect qualities. Accept your embrace the entire spectrum of human imperfections, your foibles, your flaws. experience, the greater your ability will be Give yourself a break. It's exhausting to to ground your spiritual nature on this deny. It is freeing to accept. plane. If the point was just to experience 2. Do your inner work. Whatever our spiritual nature, why would we have unresolved issues or buried wounds you chosen to incarnate in human form in the have, work through them. Seek help. Ask first place? If all you do is pursue your for support. Spiritual awakening is not a connection to spirit, you're only destination, it is a journey. Spoiler alert: experiencing 50 percent of what it is to be no matter how much inner work you do, human. We chose to be in-body in order to there is always more to learn, uncover, em-body. So embrace your amazing self heal, release, and embrace. Enjoy the and focus not only on the upward growth, journey. but the downward growth as well. 3. Feel your feelings. This is one of the most precious and unique gifts of being human! Feeling your emotions (especially anger and fear) doesn't make you un-evolved. It makes you, simply, human. Emotions are our most accurate navigation system. Our body's reaction to circumstances will always tell us the truth, if we learn to embrace and listen to our feelings. 4. Give yourself permission that "being spiritual" doesn't have to look a certain way. Spirituality shows up in as many Stephanie Red Feather is a forms as there are humans on the planet. shamanic spiritual healer, Express your uniqueness. Be teacher and life coach. She offers authentically you. private coaching as well as 5. Tell yourself the truth. Erich Fromm multiple workshops, trainings, says, "Integrity simply means a products and processes, willingness not to violate one's identity." including the Embodied Priestess Lying to yourself is one of the most Process™. Visit her website: dangerous forms of spiritual bypass. www.redfeatherconnections.com When you lie to yourself, you erode your or call her at 913-515-3271. trust in yourself. Then you begin to relate to yourself as untrustworthy. 12

December 2015

Feature

Transcendence in Everyday Life

ftentimes individuals believe that the ability to reach a state of transcendence is something that is unattainable in their everyday lives. They feel that this is a state of consciousness that is only available to spiritual adepts, saints, enlightened teachers, and indigenous healers. Transcendence is viewed in our culture as something that lies beyond the range of our ordinary perceptions, knowledge, comprehension, or experience. One senses that transcendence is apart from the material universe and that it is beyond their experience and unknowable. In my experience I have found this to be totally false and is a byproduct of the limitations that we have imposed upon ourselves by our disconnection with the natural world and the beauty of the universe. In my work as a Shamanic Healer and teacher for almost 20 years I have learned that the ability to reach a state of transcendence is available to everyone regardless of their spiritual experience or level of enlightenment. In Shamanic cosmology it is believed that there are two levels of reality: ordinary reality, and nonordinary reality. Ordinary reality is the reality that we experience most commonly in our daily existence, doing our work, taking care of our families, taking care of the business of life. Non-ordinary reality is just as real in our lives as the ordinary reality of our everyday existence, yet it is entered into by moving into a state of flow, a space of moving from the realms of this world and into the realms of the unseen. The Shamanic Healer or Practitioner does this through the Shamanic Journey. The Shamanic Journey is a trance like state that is attained with the use of some type of monotonous sound by the practitioner. This can take the form of drumming, rattling, chanting, dancing, or any form of trance like music. The Shaman can navigate through 3 worlds. The upper world or the Hanaqpacha as we call it in the Pachakuti Mesa Tradition that I practice. The Lower World or the Ukhupacha, and our ordinary world know as the Kaypacha. The Hanaqpacha is a world that is filled with light and is very surreal; our spirit helpers there are highly evolved spiritual energies that exist only to be of service to mankind for guidance and healing. The Ukhupacha is a world very much like our world; only it is pristine and unspoiled. Its residents are our animal allies. They also serve us for healing and guidance, as well as to help integrate or release shadow elements from our being. These two worlds are mediators for the

Kaypacha and are continually interpenetrating our ordinary reality to assist us in our personal healing, the distant healing of others, and access to information we cant call forth in our normal awareness. Everyone is capable of accessing these unseen realms. They can be accessed through training and the guidance of a Shamanic Teacher of integrity and good heart, and oftentimes they can be accessed spontaneously when one is in a receptive state of flow, exhaustion, or awareness. Being in such a state of transcendence in journeywork is much like being in a dream while you are in a waking state. A state of transcendence in communing with a place of non-ordinary reality can be experienced in forms other than a formal shamanic journey. It can come forth through periods of extreme exhaustion or over work at a place where your mind has moved aside and allowed you access to that spark of awareness to the unseen. It can occur through any kind of art where you are within the flow of the moment and have stepped outside of your ordinary awareness into a state of bliss. It can occur with tender moments with your children, grandchildren, or other beloveds in your life in the times where you feel the resonant heart connection of one soul to another. It can occur with the intimacy of a beloved in moments of sexual ecstasy. There are many ways that transcendence can occur spontaneously. What is most relevant is the synchronicity that existed to produce the state of transcendence. If one can recreate this experience it can lead to being able to access a transcendent state at will. One of the issues that we as humans have imposed upon ourselves that acts as a block to experiencing transcendence is the belief that we are separate from the Divine. Divinity exists in all things, believing that the universe exists in separate forms is simply an illusion. There is duality in our universe and everything in our universe depends on its opposite to be complete and balanced, that is how wholeness is achieved. We need to re – member source, the source that is within us. That everything in creation is part of that source of oneness and the I AM. How can we re re-member our connection to all that is and the I AM? How can we regularly consciously call in transcendence into our everyday lives, rather than just have the brief moments of bliss that may occur randomly. We can follow the examples of our native indigenous peoples of the world. The interconnectedness of the natural world, the relationship to all that is there for us to Evolving…in SANTA FE

see and experience if we just open our eyes to the great web of life and spirit that is all around us. The stones, the earth, the waters, the trees, the heavens, stars.. everything in the universe is part of us as we are part of Universe. Developing a deep connection and honoring of the natural world allows us to move into transcendence. Developing quiet time and stillness within our lives leads to transcendence. Practicing good self-care leads to transcendence. Learning ways that resonate personally to achieve an altered state whether that be the Shamanic Journey, Dance, Artistic Expression, Meditation Techniques, Mindfulness’ or many others can lead to transcendence. Transcendence is a natural part of our being, as is our connection to source. Embrace your oneness to all that is and Transcendence in every day life.

December 2015

Daniel Baxley is a Master Ceremonialist, Teacher, and Healer He is a long time student of don Oscar Miro – Quesada and one of several stellar teachers from around the world trained and endorsed to teach the Pachakuti Mesa Tradtion. Daniel provides Shamanic Healing and Teaching at White Deer Lodge in Gardner, KS. For more information contact Daniel at 816-769 -7343 rainbowspiritstar@ yahoo.com www.shamanicpathways.net

Spiritual Horoscope

December 2015 Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) Happy birthday Sagittarius! Uranus, the planet of exciting possibilities, opens doors to happy relationships.You can also have breakthroughs with kids. You’ll feel extra fun and creative. Start a new sport; try dance lessons; explore the arts.You’ll also feel self-appreciation that fills you with joy. You are cool and life is fun, so celebrate! Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) Lots of career breakthroughs happen, even if you’ve been waiting for most of the year. Be patient if a superior is jerk-y or power-trip-y, even as they present new options to you. Play it cool and send them love, since they’re jealous of your talent and internal poise! You’ll skate around them soon, so don’t worry! Meditate on forgiveness and then open your heart to people who honor your essence.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) Meditation helps to release obsessions, as well as resentments you dwell on. Quietly reflect and write about frustrations, arguments and beliefs that limit your joy and life energy. It’s an opportunity to clear out your subconscious mind and have amazing breakthroughs. Look for stubborn ideas you pridefully hang onto, even though they make you unhappy. Releasing this stuff fills you with enthusiasm for life!

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) Do friends reflect your values? Does how you spend time move you toward life goals? Have courage to stand up for what you believe in, even if it means going places on your own — or meditating on choices without other people’s input. Finding your authentic voice and living from your truth moves you in an empowered life direction. New people will come in who resonate with the real you.

Aries (March 21 – April 19) You’ll need extra meditation or quiet time this holiday season, as you likely can feel on edge and easily triggered by others. Before you speak or act, take few deep breaths, ok? Be patient at work and don’t confide mean or controversial things to co -workers. Again, deep breaths and focus on forgiveness and compassion! Let frustration out with trips to the gym or vigorous yoga classes!

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) If you feel tired or sick, meditate on suppressed anger. Your energy is depleted and you need to get in touch with emotions. Also, be careful of over doing junk food, which is hard this month! Write statements that affirm your strength and inner power and speak them to yourself often. If anyone is taking advantage of your good nature, especially at work, clearly state your limits. You’ll be successful by being honest and authentic, not by resentfully pushing yourself beyond your abilities!

Gemini (May 21 – June 20) Meditate on forgiveness about relationships, intimacy, and also money. Listen to the stories you tell in your own head over and over and also aloud to others. Are these the versions of reality you want to repeat or reinforce? By letting go of the stories, and healing from the wounds, you’ll open to happier possibilities. Affirm and visualize new options, but only after releasing the painful memories.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22) Like Aries pals, you’re feeling extra edgy around family, co-workers and your partner. Take some deep breaths, even if you have to escape to the bathroom to have privacy in holiday settings. Watch out for trigger foods, like sugar, caffeine and alcohol, since you’ll be even more emotionally sensitive. Ask a balanced friend to be “on call” if you need to reach out for some sanity in tense situations!

meditate together and then communicate as a team about finances. It builds more closeness to get things out in the open and work together. If single, forgive and release past wounds and betrayals about money or sexuality to be healed for new love — and better individual prosperity!

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) With Mars in your sign, it’s easier to express anger, but you can also feel extra impulsive. Don’t squelch your feelings (since it’s hard to let them out usually), but carefully consider words and actions. Ponder what you want to accomplish and what your true goals are. Then you can speak and act with boldness and poise too! If you’ve been struggling about a relationship, things can resolve in surprising ways, so don't give up yet!

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) Meditation and dreams help find the root of challenges. It’s easy to react with intense emotion or cutting words this month. Examine deeper feelings and look for “the story behind the story”. You’ll be able to figure out situations and have compassion for the other person as well as for yourself. Sugar and caffeine can make you more edgy, so watch for overindulging

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) The Universe is abundant with infinite possibilities, so if you’re unhappy with your life, meditate and focus on what you do want. Don’t let yourself dwell on negative things. Watch out for talking about your bummer situations. Say to yourself, “No! I release this limited reality and am open to better divine options!” You can have many breakthroughs with health and work as well as other areas!

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) If partnered, money issues can be very touchy this month. The core of the fear and anger is trust and intimacy. Try to Evolving…in SANTA FE

December 2015

Aluna Michaels is a secondgeneration astrologer and soul evolutionist practitioner. She also holds a Masters in Spiritual Counseling and has been teaching and consulting for more than three decades. Her book “Spiritual Gifts of the 12 Astrological Signs” is now on Amazon in Kindle version and as an E-book on her website. Aluna is available for appointments in her home, by phone or Skype. Call (727) 239-7179 or visit www.alunamichaels.com

Resource Directory ALTERNATIVE HEALING

METAPHYSICS

New Mexico Hypnotherapy helps you reach your goals, remove blockages to growth, and resolve limiting beliefs. From body image to clearing traumas and phobias to growing younger to natal and past-life regressions, we help people improve their life experience by understanding themselves. NewMexicoHypnotherapy.com.

Natural Kingdoms Oracle Readings by Gale Litvak Thurs., Fri. and most Sat. afternoons, noon-4 p.m. In a sacred space of nature’s energies, receive support for areas of concern in your life. Sugg. donation: $20/15 minutes. Drop-ins welcome. 505-984-8009. Hillside, 86 Old Las Vegas Highway, Santa Fe. www.santafehillside.com.

NUMEROLOGY

En-Light-En Reiki, Lynne McMahan, Ed.D. Holy Fire Karuna Reiki® Master . As a conduit for Reiki healing energy, Lynne builds a mentoring relationship, supporting and coaching her clients (people and their animals) to increased mind-body-spirit balance and harmony on their journey of transformation. 505.400.3168 * enlightenreiki.com * 110 Delgado St., SF

John Holmes, Numerologist Confirm your Pre-Intended Life Story. Three-part reading, two-hour consultation by phone or in my Santa Fe office. Contact John with inquiries or to schedule a reading: jrholmes@gmx.com or call 505-466-4297.

COACHING

SELF CARE

LIBIDO COACHING. Somatic coaching for people who wish to change/expand the relationship with their body/intimacy/sexuality. Isa Magdalena has taught conscious sexuality since '92, in the US and Europe. Her book is called A Map of Full Spectrum Sex. http://isamagdalena.com.

Beth Budesheim, Artist, LMT, RN, ATP® Your Goddess Energy Portrait™, therapeutic massage and energy medicine, chakra work, Art Rituals™, paintings. www.BethBudesheim.com

SPIRITUALITY EDUCATION

Heart of the Mother Healing by Gwendolyn Hill Individual spiritual sessions and classes on ascension topics both remotely via teleseminars and in person in Albuquerque, NM. For more information: http://gwendolynhill.com, 505-864-4084, gwendolyn@gwendolynhill.com.

Southwestern College/New Earth Institute: Consciousness-Centered Graduate School for Counseling and Art Therapy 3960 San Felipe Road, Santa Fe, NM 87507 toll free: 877-471-5756 direct: 505-471-5756 email: info@swc.edu

Unity Santa Fe is a welcoming Interspiritual Community that offers practical tools for a healthy, abundant life. Sunday Service at 10:30 a.m., variety of classes and workshops. www.unitysantafe.org 1212 Unity Way, Santa Fe 87506. 505-989-4433

Events DECEMBER 14 MAKING PERSONALIZED FLOWER ESSENCES AS GIFTS FOR LOVED ONES 6-7:30p.m. Working with over 100 flower essences, we will discuss various selection methods for choosing flower essences for ourselves, friends, and family. Using whichever method(s) you choose, we’ll make personalized essence combinations. All materials will be provided. Cost: $15 Milagro Herbs, 419 Orchard Drive (next to Kakawa Chocolate House on Paseo de Peralta), Santa Fe. Register: 505-820-6321 ONGOING HATHA SOUL YOGA Join Heather Robertson in her Hatha Soul Yoga class to awaken your inner strength for less stress and more freedom.

WideAwakebyDesign.com for more details. ACCESS CONSCIOUSNESS CERTIFIED BARS EXCHANGE Wednesday nights, Santa Fe, get your bars run! Huge savings to a private session! Kathy White CFMW@ 505.366.9120 VITALITY HOUR AT INNER RHYTHM WELLNESS CENTER Mondays from 5pm - 6pm Join Val Alarcón, Holistic Health Coach and Advocate AADP for an inspiring, educational and interactive workshop on how to address your bio-individual nutritional needs, life/work balance and many more health related topics. For more information and other events visit www.VitalityWithVal.us Evolving…in SANTA FE

December 2015

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The Scher Center for Well Being connects you to your body’s genius!

Bridging the gap between where you are and where you must be to live the extraordinary.

ave you ever wondered if you could heal beyond what you’ve experienced before? Are you tired of going round and round, trying to change, but finding yourself in the same situation over and over again? Have you ever wanted to feel more at home with your body and heart? Do you feel there may be a missing link to having vibrant health? The Scher Center for Well Being in Santa Fe, is a world-renowned center that will help you discover a new way of creating the change in your life that you’ve been looking for. The Scher Center offers a range of evidence-based techniques and tools for wellbeing, including Network Spinal Analysis (NSA) and Somato Respiratory Integration (SRI). NSA is a practice that uses gentle touch to signal the brain and nervous system to develop new, coherent neural pathways. SRI works with breath and the body through a set of exercises that allow you to more fully connect to your own unique healing rhythms. Through these and other reorganizational healing tools, you learn how to sustainably integrate your body wisdom with your conscious awareness and find your unique formula for living your life in an effortless and resourceful way. Healing happens through connection-by connection to every cell in your body; to your feelings, to others, to all of life. Too often, as a result of stress and trauma, our bodies lose their natural state of connectedness, which creates energy demands on your body and life that are not available, so you go into “survival mode”. We hold tension patterns that shut us off from our own healing potential and from the world around us. To heal, grow and transform, you need new available energy sources for your body. At the Scher Center for Well Being, we not only help you move out of “survival mode”, but help you go beyond what you’ve been able to experience in your life through a more energetically resourceful body. When the energy of what is unconsciously held in the body becomes present, then the journey to wholeness is well underway. “A renaissance in cellular biology has led to a new understanding of the mechanism of the mind body connection. Dr. Judy Scher’s contribution on wellness strategies, based upon this cutting edge science, provides empowering insight into the process by which our

Live Wild. Live Wise. Celebrate the Magic of an Integrated You.

thought, attitudes and beliefs create the conditions of our bodies and our exterior world.” – Bruce Lipton (cellular and developmental biologist and author) If you feel that there is more to your life – there is! The Scher Center is dedicated to inspiring, educating, and delivering a blend of cutting-edge reorganizational healing tools, state-of-the-art nervous system and life assessments and timeless wisdom, to support sustainable healing and transformational change for you. Come journey with us and connect with your body’s wisdom and freedom. Feel, be and live empowered through and with your body’s genius. “After many years of seeking professional help to alleviate my pain and related fatigue, I decided to try one more doctor, one more approach. With skepticism, I began Care at the Scher Center for Well Being. The work is unlike anything else I've experienced to date. It is gentle and subtle, yet powerful and deep. I have greatly benefited physically—and to my surprise—mentally and emotionally, as well, because their practice philosophy has positively impacted all areas of my life.” – Jake Eagle, licensed psychotherapist “After 38 years of experiencing chronic pain from a spinal injury, I started care at the Scher Center for Well Being. With the very first session, I felt a profound sense of hope that I had found the help that I need to enhance my physical wellbeing. All these years I have felt alone in this journey. I now have less pain and feel more confident in my body. The doctors and staff are extremely caring and professional and with new tools and support, I have the resources to continue an active life.” – Becky Stamm, Montessori teacher “I began care at the Scher Center approximately 5 months ago. What got me there was a health issue that was not addressed through a number of modalities that I tried over a two year period. What I have gained is relief, an increase in vitality, a greater understanding of who I am, and a new found excitement about being all I can be.” – Hannah Eagle, Classical Homeopath If you would like more information or would like to see how to attend one of our Dinner with the Doc’s, our free community well being dinners, please call the Center at 505 9899373 and speak with our staff.

www.schercenter.com

Evolving…in SANTA FE

505-989-9373

December 2015

1602 4th St. Santa Fe, NM 87505