The Voice of ASTARA by ASTARA

THE VOICE OF

ASTARA

DEDICATED TO THE ART OF LIVING IN THE LIGHT vol.3

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Springtime; Everything Old is New Again

This is the third edition of The Voice of Astara since we started publishing it in magazine format. The transformation of the old newsletter format has been a measurable success for Astara. We’ve increased readership with multiple formats, including digital, hard copy and online. It’s just one way Astara is taking the old and familiar and making it new and contemporary. I guess it’s a Spring thing. Examining the things that no longer serve Astara and renewing timeless classics so that they reach a broader audience, coincides with the renewal that Springtime symbolizes.

We seem to have stronger energy to breathe into the projects we are working on. There is new hope for goals that need to be reached. The warmth of the sun and the increase in daylight enable us to dig deep into the mission of Astara, its purpose and securing its longevity and we are eternally optimistic. With new members coming on board daily, multiple free class and study groups weekly and monthly interactive workshops, the small but nimble Astara executive staff and ministers have proven that after the dark days of winter, the beauty and promise of Spring rings eternal again.

Thank you for supporting the journey.

C O NT E NT S

PA G E 4 ABOUT US

Meet the Team Behind Astara’s Future

PA G E 6

PREPARING YOUR Personal Shrine

PA G E 1 0

SHOP THE ASTARA STORE Shine brightly

PA G E 1 8 CHAKRAVYUHA

The Maze of Life by Hariharan Raman

PA G E 3 8 ASTARA ARCHIVES

Astara’s Crystal Meditation Matrix Front Cover: Praying Hands by Aradaphotography/Canva The Voice of ASTARA 10700 Jersey Blvd. #500 | Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730 www.astara.org | 1.800.964.4941 | media@astara.org

A B O UT US

John Gregory Toews, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Director-Trustee President & CEO, Head Reverend Greg was introduced to Astara in 2003. As a full-time healer, Greg has performed over 85,000 healing sessions and has instructed thousands of students over the past 25 years. Greg’s first teacher Emaho influenced the unfolding of his practice, as well as the years spent as a direct student of Satguru Choa Kok Sui, founder of Pranic Healing and of a Lakota Medicine Man. He has over 95,000 clinical hours of experience in Advanced Medical Aromatherapy, and is the owner of Plant Prana Essential Oils. His therapeutic approach which draws on the various healing and alchemical process that have been practiced through the ages has produced a systematic approach to healing and spiritual development through a complex technique of layering that targets different aspects of the body and psyche. His goal is to steer Astara towards growth- based longevity. Dr. Mathew Gold, DACM, Director-Trustee, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President Introduced to Astara in 2010, Dr. Gold immediately began studying Astara’s Book of Life. Dr. Gold has studied throughout the world, in over one dozen countries, including the Himalayan Mountains of India, and is deeply versed in the teachings and wisdom of Astara, Sanatana Dharma, Kundalini Kriya Yoga, Nath Yoga, Raja Yoga, Arhatic Yoga, Kadampa Buddhism, and Kriya Yoga. Dr. Gold holds a doctorate of acupuncture and Chinese medicine (DACM) and has over 8,000 hours of clinical experience. Philanthropy and service are pillars in Dr. Gold’s life. Tammi Lambert, Director-Trustee Tammi M. Lambert was introduced to Astara 10 years ago and is a Licensed Spiritual Practitioner with the Rio Grande Center for Spiritual Living in Albuquerque, NM and an enrolled member of the Jicarilla Apache Nation. For the past four years, Tammi has been sharing her love of the Divine across the country by leading inspirational talks (over 100 talks given), providing trainings, meditations, and broadcasting daily Spiritual Mind Treatments. She has been a Pranic Healer for over ten years. Tammi earned a Juris Doctorate in law, has been a licensed attorney for 20 years, served on numerous boards, both civic and spiritual and currently the presiding judge for a Native American tribe in New Mexico. Valarie Anderson, Brand Manager/ Director of Publishing & Books Los Angeles Times, Conde Nast, DFV World-Wide and M Media Group, have all had Valarie at the helm leading publishing and Marketing. With over 30 years extensive, international experience in brand marketing specializing in relaunching heritage brands, her unique perspective and creative ability has lead to major bottom line successes. As a spiritual student of Grand Master Choa Kok Sui, pranic healing for over 18 years, she was introduced to Astara at that time. Peggy Tennent, Head Reverend With more than twenty-five working years of ministry with Astara, Peggy heads up daily ministry activities, responsibilities, and shares true experiences with each of the Chaney family and fellow Astarians. Peggy was ordained by the Chaney’s and has sat with many spiritual teachers the world over. A Retired Registered Respiratory Therapist with energy training from numerous different avenues of life to humbly support Astara’s Book Of Life teachings now. Kellie Brown, Systems Administrator To contact Astara email us at astara@astara.org

W HY A S T A R A ? FINDING YOUR UNIQUE PL ACE IN THIS NEW AGE H ow lo ng ha v e y ou s o u g h t y o u r p l ac e - th at s p e c i a l r ol e i n l i f e onl y y ou c a n pl a y? H ow lo ng ha v e y ou h ad t h e p e r s i s te n t f e e l i n g t he r e i s so muc h mor e f or you, more t o ex perience , m o r e t o l e ar n an d m o r e t o sha r e wi t h ot he r s? If you feel a s if y ou h av e s p e n t y o u r l i f e s e e k i ng , t he se wor ds a r e f or y ou. If you a re co ncerne d w i th h e al i n g th e b o d y , the mi nd a nd t he soul -he a l i ng f or you a nd for o t hers- A s tar a i s f o r y o u . If you a re driv en t o e x p l o r e t h e p o te n ti al o f the i nne r S e l f , t he c osmi c myst e r i e s, or the v a rious pa t h s t o e n l i g h te n m e n t, A s tar a i s f or you. Re qu e s t y o ur f re e b o o k l e t t o d a y a t me d i a @a s t a ra .org www.a s ta ra . o rg

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P R E PA R I N G Y O U R PERSONAL SHRINE:

In the Astarian sense, a shrine is a personal altar, a place where the Astarian meets his real Self, and through that Self meets God. It may also be a place where he or she develops their higher than physical faculties, a place of temporary withdrawal from the physical world to hold communion with the spiritual world, a place of tranquility and in which the Astarian gathers the Infinite resources and makes them his or her own. Webster’s definition states an altar is A spot or place considered sacred…because of its character and historical associations. Thus for an Astarian a shrine might be entirely within himself and have no outer location. Or it might be a special place, a room, a corner of a room, or simply a chair which he or she holds hallowed because of the spiritual activities which it is involved. It is a place where meditation is practiced as well as spiritual attunement and disciplines like Lama Yoga. Include whatever furnishings you desire so long as they are conducive to soothing harmony, mental serenity, and offer aid to stirring up spiritual aspirations. There are only a few requisites. One is that you must have a table of average height, make it as large or small as you wish. If you sit upon the floor in crossed-legged lotus posture, then your table should be low on the ground before you. This table becomes your personal shrine or altar. You will sit before it to perform your spiritual practices. There should be an incense burner if you are inspired by the aroma of incense. There should be a candle on either side of the table. There should be a picture of the Master Teacher who is the source of greatest inspiration to you. There can be a vase of flowers as well.

THE SHRINE WITHIN THE HEART

CONSECRATING YOUR SHRINE Mentally see streams of White light flowing from Astral Astara and surrounding and permeating your Shrine. See the Shrine filled with these streams as though it is being bathed in purity. See every earthly condition being swept away and the Holy White Light saturating every inch of space in your Shrine, weather it be an entire room, a corner or merely a table. Speak aloud the following words: May the pure White Light of the Christ be centered in this Shrine. Nothing but good can enter it. Nothing but good shall emanate from it. A-men. Upon this sanctified Place of Light I now request the blessing of my Master Teacher and other loved ones who reside in the Higher planes. So be it. Henceforth this is the shrine of spirit, of truth, of Light. Help me, Illuminated Ones of the greater realms, to walk uprightly as a steward of the Mysteries and a son of the Light. Help me so to live that all who witness the works of this Shrine, wether of the physical plane of the spiritual planes, may know that I walk with God into the glorious dawn of the Aquarian Age. A-men.

Never forget this: Although an actual outer shrine is desirable, none is necessary, for it must ever remain secondary to the eternal shrine within the heart. You may wish no prop of any kind… only the inner shrine. To each his own. What may open new worlds for you may be only a source of tedious nuisance for another. Circumstances differ with each individual and it remains for each to seek his own method of attainment and attunement. This lesson only points the way and offers suggestions to the many who have written asking our help in creating some type of shrine or altar for home worship. The important point is that you make an effort to open the channels of spiritual influence in your life, that you activate and make functional your connection with life’s superior dimensions, that you utilize some method of attunement with your own High Self and the Infinite being, that you make a substantial and objective reality of the fact that you are in God and God is in you. If you will use such of these aids to your spiritual progress as appeal to you, then your aspirations will become realities and your goals will be gained. And new and greater aspirations and goals will present themselves.

AQUAMARINE NECKLACE

CHROME DIOPSIDE NECKLACE

Evokes the purity of crystalline waters and the exhilaration and relaxation of the sea. It is calming, cleansing and soothing and inspires truth, trust and letting go. It is often used to promote verbal self-expression and to clear communication blocks.

Has long been used to boost creative vision and awareness. This green gemstone is thought to be able to improve intellect and encourages the desire of one to learn. According to metaphysical beliefs, chrome diopside is used to help alleviate aggression or stubbornness while in turn enhancing love and commitment. Green diopside is said to be connected to the heart chakra.

Ethically sourced | $156.00

Ethically sourced | $120.00

ROSE QUARTZ BEAD NECKLACE Rose quartz is the stone of universal love. It restores trust and harmony encouraging unconditional love. Rose quartz purifies and opens the heart on all levels to promote love, self-love, friendship, deep inner healing and feelings of peace. Ethically sourced | $36.00 Medium

S H I N E B R I G H T LY

MOLDAVITE FACETED BEADED NECKLACE 18 inches. Gradiant beads ranging from small to medium/large. Moldavite is a definite and powerful Chakra opener and activator, particularly resonating with the Heart, 3rd Eye, and Crown Chakras. Although its energy tends to first move to wherever it is most needed in the physical and etheric bodies, it will settle and center in the heart. Moldavite is a great stone to work with on a personal and collective level in your healing work, practices, and meditations. Ethically Sourced | $819.00

Semi-Precious Gemstones Ethically Sourced Now Available in the

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Spring Special: Free Shipping on all Jewelry.

RUBY BEADED NECKLACE SMALL 18 inches. Small beads. Ruby encourages passion and a zest for life. It improves motivation and setting of realistic goals. Balances the heart and instill confidence. Ruby encourages joy, spontaneity, laughter and courage. Ruby is an excellent aid in recharging your energy.

ROSE QUARTZ BEADED MALA Rose quartz is the stone of universal love. It restores trust and harmony encouraging unconditional love. Rose quartz purifies and opens the heart on all levels to promote love, self-love, friendship, deep inner healing and feelings of peace. Ethically sourced | $54.00

Ethically Sourced | $96.00

TANZANITE BEAD NECKLACE Activates psychic abilities the crown chakra and the third eye, facilitating communication with the higher spiritual dimensions. Tanzanite is a stone of transformation that can help dissolve old patterns of disease and helps one move forward with optimism.

MULTI SPINEL BEADED NECKLACE SMALL 18 inches. Small beads. Spinel gems are said to help set aside egos and become devoted to another person. It is believed to encourage great passion, devotion and longevity. Spinel is associated with the root Chakra, making it effective in increasing physical energy and stamina.

Ethically sourced | $84.00

$43.00

LAPIS BEADED NECKLACE

TURQUOISE BEADED NECKLACE

18 inches. Medium beads. Lapis Lazuli also know as the “Wisdom Keeper” and is one of the most sought after stones in use since man’s history began. Its deep, celestial blue remains the symbol of honor and royalty, gods and power, spirit and vision. Ethically Sourced | $24.00

18 inches. Medium beads. Turquoise promotes selfrealization and assists creative problem solving. It is a symbol of friendship and stimulates romantic love. Turquoise aids in the absorption of nutrients, enhances the immune system, stimulates regeneration of tissue and heals the whole body. Ethically Sourced | $24.00

ASTA R A P R AY E R O F P O W E R Before beginning your actual meditation you may wish to prepare your mind with the following ritual. It can be used in solitary meditations or when several seekers gather together. It may be employed as an invocation of power and understanding, the attunement of mind, or as a supplicant for healing.

“Great architect of the universe, may I be a channel through which Thy Holy Ones approach the world. May I be a center for the radiation of Thy power. Teach me to travel light, that I may better gain the heights. Break the bonds that bind. Teach me to give myself entirely to Thy service, to attune myself to Thy will. Teach me to lay down the small personal life for the greater Cosmic Life,⁣ and to love with the love of God.” First Degree, Lesson 2

www.astara.org

EGYPTIAN GERANIUM ESSENTIAL OIL

BULGARIAN LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL

Geranium essential oil traditionally used by the Egyptians to encourage, beautiful, glowing- skin. It is derived of the fragrant Geranium flower. It’s sweet, floral scent can be used topically and aromatically.

High Quality lavender oil soothes and calms and has multiple use. De-stress with infusions of this high quality Bulgarian oil.

ASTARA’S FIRST DEGREE ANOINTING OIL

PALO SANTO ESSENTIAL OIL

Based on Astara’s Book of Life First Degree Lessons-Special blend essential oil, helps to enhance your meditations and better connect to the Higher Self & Teachings. Contains the Holy Rose, Bulgarian Rose, Damascus Rose, Helichrysum, Saffron.

Palo santo is a traditional remedy for pain, inflammation, and stress. It’s also used to clear out negative energy. You can burn palo santo as incense or apply the oil directly on your skin.

YLANG YLANG ESSENTIAL OIL

MARBLE MIST GLASS TORTOISE DIFFUSER

Ylang ylang essential oil is also commonly used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, improve mood, and enhance libido. In addition, ylang ylang essential oil is said to act as a natural insect repellent, promote wound healing, and diminish the appearance of scars when applied to the skin.

This essential oil diffuser transforms your oils into a cool mist with a beautiful glass body that illuminates when on. $72.00

WHAT IS AN ESSENTIAL OIL? Essential oils have been used throughout history in many cultures for their medicinal and therapeutic benefits. An essential oil is a highly concentrated compound derived from the natural oils in plants. In our modern world, essential oils are used for aromatherapy, in personal care products, household cleaners and much more. -Plant Prana Oils

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DONATION & MEMBERSHIP

WE CANNOT DO GOOD OR GIVE TO OTHERS, WITHOUT RECEIVING A BLESSING.

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HEARTFELT THANKS FOR SUPPORTING ASTARA WITH YOUR GIFTS AND MEMBERSHIP Thank you for your support which help spread the teachings of Astara. Donors like you are vital to Astara and the achievement of our mission. As a tax exempt organization outlined in Section 501c3 Of the Internal Revenue Code (EIN Number), every donation counts and we couldn’t have made the same impact without your generous gift. Your contribution has enabled Astara to continue providing metaphysical and spiritual teachings for light seekers around the world.

A S TA R A D O N AT I O N F O R M The Teachings of Astara and its Non-Profit Functions are greatly assisted by your generous support Title Dr. Mr. Mrs. Ms. Other: First Name/s: Surname: Company: Address: State: Email:

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Method of Payment: Check, Cash, Money /Order or Credit Card (payable to Astara) Please accept my donation of $

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Thank you for your donation. Please mail to: Astara@ 10700 Jersey Blvd. #500 Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730 Donations of $2.00 or more are tax deductible. Donations can be made by filling out this form and returning it to ASTARA

DID YOU KNOW?

T H E A S T A R A C RY S T A L I S A N C H O R E D O NS IT E I N C A L I F O R N I A

Astara Founder Earlyne Chaney had a vision when she was atop the Intihuatana in Machu Picchu. Her experience was of a large natural crystal resting on an altar and from its center, a bright radiating Light that was brilliantly and eternally ebbing from magnificent brilliance to a soft glow. She understand that this Light was eternal and could never be extinguished. When she returned back to California, she secured a mammoth crystal to be placed at Astara and used as part of an annual sacred initiation ceremony. Once a year it is lighted within to project radiant rays Upon the new Astara members. During the year it acts as a focal point for Astara prayers that are projected worldwide throughout the planet We pray for our overshadowing teachers to keep their own Eternal Flame Burning in its heart. This is a photo of the Astara crystal soaking in the rays of the sun. Astara will be teaching a class on the Mystical Powers of Crystals and how to use them for sacred living. Details are available as well as registration for the class at www.astara.org/events. Astara blessed and energized crystals from Brazil are ethically sourced and available for sale in the Astara store. It is highly recommended that you have your own crystal to participate in this interactive, one day class.

C H A K R AV Y U H A THE MAZE OF LIFE

BY HARIHARAN RAMAN Inspired by the teachings of Grand Master Choa Kok Sui

The other day, I was making my son sleep at night and when I thought he had fallen asleep and I could get back to watching my game, he started “Papa, please tell me a story”. I was in mythological mode and couldn’t think of anything else, so I started with the story of Abhimanyu. I asked him, “Do you know Abhimanyu from the Mahabharata”? He said, “I know about the Mahabharata but not Abhimanyu. Can you please tell me about him?” So then I started… Abhimanyu is the son of Arjuna and Subhadra, sister of Lord Krishna. When Subhadra was pregnant with Abhimanyu, Arjuna was explaining the battle formation of Chakravyuha or the maze to his wife Subhadra. Subhadra was listening intently however in the process, without realizing, she fell asleep. So she was only able to hear the part where Arjuna talked about entering the maze or Chakravyuha but slept over the part where Arjuna was explaining how to get out of the Chakravyuha. During the battle of Mahabharata which was fought several years later, there came a time when Arjuna had to step away and Abhimanyu tasked himself with the responsibility of protecting Yudhishtra and other Pandavas from the Kauravas. On that particular day, the Kaurava army decided to use the maze/Chakravyuha formation to trap the Pandavas in the absence of Arjuna. Abhimanyu, the young and brave warrior decided to enter the maze and fought valiantly against the Kaurava elders. He single-handedly defeated many of them in a man to man combat. Now the Kaurava elders ganged up against him together and slowly he lost all his weapons. Nevertheless, he fought hard and pulled out the wheel of his chariot and used it as a weapon to fight. He fought long and hard but ultimately fell to the trickery of the Kauravas and was killed in the maze. If only Abhimanyu knew how to break or crack the Chakravyuha, he would have emerged alive and victorious. How Subhadra would have wished that she stayed awake during her conversation with Arjuna about the Chakravyuha and see her son live the day!

how to get in and out of it. Remember Arjuna has the guidance of a wise Guru, Lord Krishna. However, it is Abhimanyu, a part of the Higher Soul incarnated in Subhadra’s womb, symbolically the body, that has partial memory or consciousness. Abhimanyu knows how to come into this world or enter into the maze. Abhimanyu is familiar with circuiting the maze yet gets trapped in the maze over and over again and loses his life to the maze. Abhimanyu loses his consciousness and perishes in the Chakravyuha. This is like us going through life over and over again and yet in many instances repeating the same mistake. We get into the situation but many a times succumb to the situation. This is especially true with the difficult lessons of our life. The maze of life or Chakravyuha is constructed in order for the soul to emerge victorious. The maze exists and is meant to be broken. Yet that can only be done by the soul itself. The guidance in the form of wisdom teachings from the Gurus exist but there is no handholding. Following the law of gravity into incarnation is easy but awakening oneself out of the pull of gravity of the material world around us requires effort. If we fail, we enter the

It will be easy for us the first time we receive the ball of yarn from Ariadne (love) and then go through the mazes of the labyrinth (life) to kill the monster. But how many there are who plunge into life (the labyrinth) without taking that precaution? – Soren Kierkegaard

This narrative achieved its purpose, my son finally fell asleep. But that left me awake, as I began to ponder on the story myself.

Isn’t every soul an Abhimanyu by itself? The Higher Nature, Arjuna knows about the maze of life or so called Chakravyuha,

maze again and again until we learn to deconstruct the maze and emerge alive. The wheel that Abhimanyu uses to fight may be likened to the wheel of the Zodiac. The soul born under a particular Zodiac sign, has to fight or battle situations in life using the qualities under the sign that it is born. Every sign has its strength and attendant weakness. The soul has to use this to the best of its abilities and transform the weakness into a strength as it goes through the maze. As the soul matures, it is able to use the different qualities or the entire wheel to its purpose even though predominantly it is born under one sign. The different constellations of the Zodiac present trials to the gladiator soul and cook it under one sign. The different constellations of the Zodiac present trials to the gladiator soul and cook it under one sign. The different constellations of the Zodiac present trials to the gladiator soul and cook it in their light. The cooked and ripened soul then radiates fragrance in the form of love, compassion, wisdom, oneness and higher qualities. As we go through the maze over and over again, the Abhimanyu in us is reminded of its learnings from past failures and learns to contact Arjuna, the Higher Nature. Arjuna though away from the battlefield holds contact with Abhimanyu through the fine thread of yarn or sutra-atma. Through guidance and wisdom from experience, Abhimanyu is able to solve the maze of life and earn immortality. Till then he fights, to live another day!

Classic Books

Astara Book of Life Degree Lessons Full Set $597.00 or per individual Degree $77.00

THE VOICE OF

ASTARA

DEDICATED TO THE ART OF LIVING IN THE LIGHT vol.1

Order back issues of THE VOICE OF ASTARA or request to receive our magazine by mail at media@astara.org

The Book of Blessings and Meditations $14.95

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TH ANN

eP ath Ahead

RSARY IVE

Lig

1 9 5 1-20

CELEBRATING THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF ASTARA 70 YEAR ANNIVERSARY: LIGHT ON THE PATH AHEAD Applying the teachings through study and Astara classes. New Astara class schedule Ministry Mastermind, Instructions, Process, recruitment Calendar of Year Long Celebrations & Events New Logo Release First Honorary Degree Master Award For Service CALENDAR OF YEAR-LONG CELEBRATIONS, EVENTS AND FUNDRAISING May 31st; Ministerial Initiation by Fire - Greg Toews August: 70 Day Countdown to $70k - Degrees & Donations by October 17th October 17th: Anniversary Celebration Light on the Path Ahead To underwrite or help sponsor the 70th Anniversary activities please contact media@astara.org

QUAN YIN STATUE Bodhisattva Quan yin is a deity of mercy and compassion. “She who observes all sounds of suffering in the world.” This goddess of mercy can help solve any problem but remember, she only helps those who lead a life of kindness, honesty and mercy. Regular price $1,128.00

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22 www.astara.org

BUDDHA MANJUSRI STATUE Tibetan Buddha Manjushree with sword of wisdom. His name means “Gentle Glory” in Sanskrit and he is the oldest and most significant bodhisattva in literature. HE cuts down ignorance and duality as his wisdom tames the mind. Regular price $228.00

21 TARA THANKA LARGE Hand made Tibetan Thanka depicts the Tara buddha and is a beautiful accent to any spiritual space. Regular price $2,160.00

METAL SINGING BOWL, OM BLK/TURQ - LARGE Each bowl is hand etched with the Om symbol. Beautifully tuned and lovingly hand picked. Mallet included. $420.00

TIBETAN PRAYER WHEEL, MULTIPLE WHEELS A Prayer Wheel is a cylindrical wheel on a spindle made from metal and wood. Traditionally, a mantra is written in Newari, on the outside of the wheel. The mantra Om mani padme hum is used here. Regular price $110.00

CRYSTAL WAND CLEAR 17 Used for scanning the aura and chakras to locate, cleanse and heal. Crystal wands have the ability to focus and direct energy through their tip. $135.00

QUARTZ CRYSTAL PENDANT

FLOWER OF LIFE PENDANT

Quartz Crystal is a power stone that’s prized as a healing stone. It is known as the most powerful healing stone of the mineral kingdom and as a natural prism, they take light and energy from the sun to manifest healing, protection, channeling and meditation. Ethically Sourced| $120.00

Excellent for healing and connecting to your higher self. The flower of life shape consists of 13 circles that hold many mathematical and geometrical laws that represent the whole universe. Its origins are Egyptian although the flower of life can be found in all major world religions. Ethically Sourced | $115.00

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CLEAR CRYSTAL EXTRACTOR MEDIUM Crystal extractors are diamond shaped for maximum healing results. Placed on energy centers or the chakras of the corresponding organs they cleanse and aid in the healing process. Useful in releasing any energetic blockages and disturbances for restored balance and well-being. $30.00

MOONSTONE CRYSTAL

ANKH PENDANT

Associated with inner goodness, a symbol of fertility and sensuality. It is a stone for new beginnings. It enhances intuition and promotes inspiration, success and good fortune in love and business matters. Available in Small $122.00 Medium $137.00 Long Large $196.00 | Ethically Sourced

Silver Ankh Pendant is an ancient Egyptian symbol important to Astara, which symbolizes the many aspects of life, including physical life, eternal life, immortality, death, and reincarnation. The symbol is a teardropshaped hoop with a cross connected directly below it, to represent the sun making its path upward and over the horizon. It is used for good luck and is a major symbol in Astara. $168.00 Silver & Gold Caduceus is the traditional symbol of Hermes and features two snakes winding around a winged staff. It is often used as a symbol of healing The two-snake caduceus design has ancient and consistent associations with trade, eloquence, negotiation, alchemy and wisdom. In Astara the two serpents represent the negative and positive flow of energy going up and down the spine and the wings represent enlightenment. $218.00

SILVER “VISION” NECKLACE Lapis Lazuli is one of the most sought after stones in use since man’s history began. Its deep, celestial blue remains the symbol of royalty and honor, gods and power, spirit and vision. It is a universal symbol of wisdom and truth. Known as the “Wisdom Keeper”, it is one of the most sought after stones in use since man’s history began. Ethically Sourced |$211.00

THE MODERN MY S T E RY S C H O O L MINISTRY’S PLACE IN TODAY’S SOCIETY By Valarie Anderson The pandemic of 2020 has altered the reality for places of worship and has brought about catastrophic results for many congregations. Some have been made stronger and some have simply disappeared unable to weather the storm of unpredictability. However, fact is, many churches, synagogues, temples and mosques were barely keeping alive before lockdowns. Contemporary life, scientific discovery and fluctuating dogma, the internet and political intrusion, had all done their damage to a crumbling of faith societies in general. If you didn’t have your own tv show, evangelistic superstar, religious rockstar or multi-national broadcast company, it was a lean arena to compete in. Changing family structures, disregard for tradition and watered down religions all play their part in the stepping away from the structured worship service. Does that mean that spirituality is fading too and that it is mere decades away from extinction? Or has spirituality evolved to a higher level of personalization and therefore power? Let’s look at the situation through the eyes of Astara’s teachings. Optimism and confidence in the Divine, might be the outcome. Astara is a way for you to follow in your journey toward entrance to that innermost, secret place of knowledge. It is a straight and brightly lit road that leads to the place where you reunite with your true Self and rediscover the God-powers that lie in wait for you there. The serious seeker realizes that searching is not with intellect alone, seeing is not only with the eyes. There is an inner knowing, an inner sight. Your eternal quest to find your place in life, to know your destiny, to understand your full potential, has no answer in the material sciences. Only in the Mystery Schools does the seeker discover those inner dimensions, and the inner Way to the true Self. The Astara Mystery School is structured as follows: 1. Astara provides an organized plan of study for enlightenment and soul progression through the Astara’s Book of Life degree series. The studies included in this plan cannot be obtained through any academic institution and many of them are not available through any other source whatsoever. 2. Astara interprets and adapts the eternal truths for your practical use in today’s world. 3. Astara directs you toward a relationship between you and yourself and the Cosmos by explaining many of life’s enigmas, injustices, and inequalities. 4. Astara teaches how to develop inner faculties that are higher than physical senses. 5. Astara instructs healing techniques for illnesses and inharmonious conditions of every nature through prayer and the power of rightly oriented and directed consciousness. 6. Astara inspires and motivates toward living in accord with the eternal spiritual principles which all the great religions have presented. 7. Astara provides a worldwide spiritual order that transcends denominational as well as national boundaries. Extending the concept of spiritualism to encompass a philosophy wide enough for all the human family was written about in Earlyne Chaney’s autobiography Remembering. Her early youth experiences in the mystic and esoteric were not very positive and she struggled with the dogma of religion and religious leaders.. She envisioned, and created a place, along with Robert, where the congregation did not have to give up their memberships in the own churches. The overall concept being that, all religions were good and needed and all who wanted to join Astara could bring their own concepts with them. This inclusiveness was very future forward thinking. It’s where we find the narrative today and it’s where spirituality can flourish and nourish humanity for centuries to come. 26 www.astara.org

MAKING THE HEART THE TEMPLE OF GOD - By Dr. Mathew Gold, DACM The word religion comes from the latin root, religare, which means to bind or tie back. The decline in religion is a stepping away from that which binds; and it will lead to an embrace of the Spirit. Spirit is the creation force throughout existence and pervades the known and unknown regions of the universe and the all planes. Spirit is not confined by any dogma, church, or creed; rather it continues in its evolutionary creation. The true temples of devotion are laid in the altars of our hearts. In bygone days of yesteryear temples, churches, mosques and tabernacles the world over were places of sacrifice. Today, we turn inside, we turn to the altar in our heart, and there we offer the lotus flowers of our devotion. Spirit is not tempted by the carbon atoms arranged and titled “church”; but Spirit is drawn to the magnetism of our devotion when we make our heart an altar of the Divine.

E N L I G HT E N E D DOCTORS SCIENCE OF A HAPPY BRAIN: THRIVING IN THE AGE OF ANGER, ANXIETY, AND ADDICTION What is happiness? Is happiness even realistic for you to achieve in today’s world of rising anger, anxiety, and addiction? It’s the fundamental question Dr. Jay Kumar (your Happiness professor) yearned to discover in the wake of a life-transforming family tragedy as a young adult that led him to the halls of academia and holy ashrams to explore the science and spirituality of happiness. Science of a Happy Brain is adapted upon actual lessons from Dr. Jay’s popular university Happiness course that he has been coteaching for the past seven years. From millennials suffering from anxiety to folks in Middle America struggling with addiction, from veterans battling PTSD to parents coping to raise children hooked on technology, from the spike in suicides to the tribalism and hate in today’s world, Dr. Jay guides you on a personalized and proven strategy for building a Happy Brain—for you and society. More research in brain science points to one undeniable truth—to socialize is to survive, to tribe is to thrive. Science of a Happy Brain uncovers a long-forgotten aspect of humanity by exposing a shared element of human biology—your social brain. Only recently has science affirmed what religions knew all along—you are a social being with a social brain that is nourished and strengthened by community and connection.

DR. JAY IS THE AUTHOR OF SCIENCE OF A HAPPY BRAIN. HE IS ALSO THE AUTHOR OF BRAIN, BODY & BEING AND PROFESSOR OF THE POPULAR “HAPPINESS” COURSE AT CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY. For more information about Dr. Jay Kumar, visit: https://www.drjaykumar.com Follow @docjaykumar on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Dr. Jay (your Happiness Professor) is a renowned thought leader and public speaker, who stays at the forefront of brain research as a respected university professor. He holds a Ph.D. in cognitive science and religious studies and an M.A. in international political economy and a concentration in international business from Columbia University. He has also pursued advanced graduate studies at Georgetown University and UCLA.

THE MINISTRY OF ASTARA PRESENTS ASTARA.ORG/PRAYER-PETITION ASTARIAN HEALING PETITION INVOCATION

“I am surrounded by the pure white Light of the Christ, Nothing but good can come to me, Nothing but good Shall go from me. I give thanks.” Request to direct prayers and spiritual healings to: RECIPIENT’S NAME: RECIPIENT’S ADDRESS: PHONE: PLEASE DESCRIBE THE NEED FOR PRAYER:

On Behalf of (PETITIONER’S NAME If Different than above): (PETITIONER’S ADDRESS): PETITIONER’S EMAIL: Please complete the Petition. Meditate on the Light surrounding your request for a few moments. Allow the Light and the needs to become one. Repeat the invocation above and use the image on this Petition to visualize your need being met. Hold the Petition and visualize the healing becoming a reality, offer your prayer, then send it to: Astara@ 10700 Jersey Blvd. #500 Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730 Meditate daily and visualize yourself in an aura of White Light. Repeat the Astara Affirmation above. All communication is held in the strictest of confidence.

A S T A R I A N P R AY E R P E T I T I O N INVOCATION

“I invoke the Sacred Circle and visualize this issue being solved according To God’s will for all concerned. I give thanks, I give thanks.” Request to the Light of Astara for Cosmic help: RECIPIENT’S NAME: RECIPIENT’S ADDRESS: PHONE: PLEASE DIRECT YOUR PRAYERS AND SPIRITUAL ENERGIES FOR THE FOLLOWING REQUESTS:

On Behalf of (PETITIONER’S NAME If Different than above): (PETITIONER’S ADDRESS): PETITIONER’S EMAIL: Please complete the Petition. Concentrate on the Astara Star Emblem. Hold the Petition and visualize the healing becoming a reality, offer your prayer, then send it to: Astara@ 10700 Jersey Blvd. #500 Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730 Meditate daily and visualize yourself in an aura of White Light. Repeat the Astara Affirmation above. All communication is held in the strictest of confidence.

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THE MANY WAYS TO CONNECT

THE VOICE OF

ASTARA

DEDICATED TO THE ART OF LIVING IN THE LIGHT vol.1

THE VOICE OF ASTARA The Voice of ASTARA is available digitally or via mail. The Voice is a quarterly publication that is designed to inspire a life “Dedicated to Living in the Light.” View the digital issue at https://www.astara.org/ newsletter to request a copy sent via mail, contact us at media@astara.org

THE ASTARA LIGHT NEWSLETTER Astara Light, is the monthly blessing & digital bulletin for Astarians all over the world. The blessing and meditation are delivered to your in-box along with lifestyle products to enhance your everyday “light” living. View the digital issue at https://www.astara.org/ newsletter to request a copy sent via mail, contact us at media@astara.org

SHOP FOR A CAUSE Shop in the Astara store for energized products that enhance your sacred living. Consciously curated items are ethically sourced and relate to living the teachings. All proceeds help support Astara’s ministry outreach, book publishing, healing and prayer petition distribution, and membership cultivation as well as enabling Astara to offer free classes and study sessions. www.astara.org/store

CONTACT US Astara’s Corporate Headquarters 10700 Jersey Blvd. Suite 500 Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730 800.964.4941 Email: astara@astara.org

YOUTUBE

ZOOM CLASSES

All free classes are recording and put on the Astara Light 1951 YouTube Channel. It is free to subscribe.

Participate in real time as Astara Reverends and Ministers conduct classes, study groups, meditations, healings and instructions via Zoom Meetings.

Videos of meditations, classes, study groups, book studies and special events are housed here for you to enjoy on your own schedule any time of day or night. The vidoes can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCagehY_6STA_ QXzoKkVcdGw

Check for monthly schedules at www.astara.org/events

CHECK OUT www.astara.org for UPDATES, NEW CLASSES AND PRODUCTS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCagehY_6STA_ QXzoKkVcdGw INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/ astara_org/ FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/ astaralight1951/ TWITTER https://twitter.com/ Astara1951

T H E PA D M A S A N A MY S T I C P O S T U R E FIRST DEGREE LESSON 2 This is the lotus posture more fully emphasized. While sitting cross-legged, insert both feet to rest upon each opposite thigh. Although this is a most difficult yoga posture, it is admitted that it brings tremendous stimuli to the spiritual centers. To train the body, sit in lotus posture and, taking one knee at a time, churn it up and down with your hands. Each day exert more pressure upon the knee as it rocks up and down until each knee ultimately lies flat on the floor without any help from the hands. Then take the right foot and place it upon the left thigh, instep down, with the bottom of the foot turned up. Rock the knee. Then alternate with the left foot. Daily practice will eventually enable you to assume the locked padmasana posture easily. The goal to be remembered is complete forgetfulness of the body. Therefore the posture which offers greatest comfort and relaxation is the one each seeker should select for your own practice. We seek mental tranquility, serenity, one-pointedness of mind, and lifting of the consciousness to a higher level. To do this, one must not only forget the body completely but all else as well, and one can hardly do this if you are constantly conscious of bodily discomfort. 1. 2. 3. 4.

THE EARS AND SHOULDER SHOULD BE HELD IN A VERTICAL LINE TO EACH OTHER THE NOSE AND THE NAVEL SHOULD ALSO. THE LIPS SHOULD BE HELD CLOSED BUT NOT TAUT DURING MEDITATION. THE EYES SHOULD BE CLOSED TO ELIMINATE OUTSIDE VISUAL DISTURBANCES.

Performed by Carly Ackerman. You can follow Carly on instagram or go to www.corebycarly.com to register for her classes. @CARLY_ELIZABETH

PHOTO CREDIT: PRO IMAGE

THE SPRING CALENDAR ONGOING WWW.ASTARA.ORG/EVENTS Plant Prana Essential Oils Classes Recurring classes Hosted by Greg Toews at Plantpranaoils.com

CALENDAR O F E V E NT S MONTHLY MONDAYS 5 PM PST TBA 2X / MO. ASTARA’S BOOK OF LIFE CLUB A monthly Book of Life Study Club taken directly from the pages of the Degree Lessons. Follow along with an Astara Degree Master as he reads and discusses the teachings. Recurring Zoom login Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86812645947

WEDNESDAYS 4PM PST -5PM PST ASTARA’s RECURRING STUDY GROUP & HEALING MINISTRY Learn Techniques from the Book of Life Degree Lessons for Enhanced Living in the Light Presented By Greg Toews, Astara President

SUNDAYS AT 10AM ASTARA Sunday Sessions Sunday Worship and Community based on the teaching in Astara’s Book of Life Degree Lessons.

36 www.astara.org

Recurring Zoom login Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/88444782341

Recurring Zoom login Join Zoom Meeting

THURSDAYS 4PM PST - 5PM PST

https://us02web.zoom. us/j/82344594145 Meeting ID: 823 4459 4145

ASTARA’S RECURRING MEDITATIONS &MINDFULNESS A weekly meditation and mindfulness space held by Reverend Dr. Matthew Gold. Based on practicing the meditations that are found in Astara’s Book of Life Degree Lessons and beyond. Recurring Zoom login Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88920206834

May 26th WESAK

APRIL

Wesak is widely celebrated throughout the East as the Festival of the Buddha. For esotericists it is the high point of the spiritual year when forces of enlightenment ﬂow from the higher worlds into the mind of humanity.

APRIL 22ND EARTH DAY Earth Day is an annual event celebrated around the world to demonstrate support for environmental protection.

MAY MAY 1ST THE MYSTIC POWER OF CRYSTALS A One Day Interactive workshop learning the power of crystals and taught by Head Rev. and Alchemical expert Greg Toews. Crystal use ancient methods for modern application. Learn the Mystic formula in this class. Link below to REGISTER https://shop.astara.org/products/the-mystic-power-of-crystalsclass-may-1

MAY 31ST MEMORIAL DAY FIRE INITIATION This ceremony is a long time Astara tradition designed to awaken the kundalini energy ad was traditionally performed Memorial Day by Earlyne Chaney.

ASTA R A A R C H IV E S

ASTARA’S CRYSTAL MEDITATION MATRIX Astara Founder, Earlyne Chaney and fellow Astarians, travelled the world to mystical sites to bury magnetized crystals in an attempt to re-establish a grid and network of light energy covering the planet. This is a map of the buried crystals around the globe. She believed that these grids would link the ancient mystical cities with all the other Mystery Schools throughout the world. In Machu Picchu, Earlyne had a vision that the crystals with their dazzling brilliance symbolized the sun. She concluded- the light of the crystals, like the sun, would never be extinguished. Read more about Earlyne’s historical and mystical journeys around the world in The Lost Empire of the Gods, available in the Astara store.

Who can ever know the secret of these eternal lamps embedded in the heart of a crystal? Will we ever learn to light such crystals again? - Earlyne Chaney

THE ASTARA AFFIRMATION I AM SURROUNDED BY THE PURE WHITE LIGHT OF THE CHRIST ONLY GOOD CAN COME TO ME ONLY GOOD SHALL GO FROM ME I GIVE THANKS, I GIVE THANKS, I GIVE THANKS.

The Voice of ASTARA

Articles inside

ENLIGHTENED DOCTORS Featuring Dr. Jay Kumar

ASTARA ARCHIVES

PREPARING YOUR Personal Shrine

WHY ASTARA ?