FR
Award Winning
EE !
™
ORANGE IS THE NEW PINK A LINK TO CANCER PREVENTION
HARMONY THROUGH AYURVEDA
RAISING KINDER CHILDREN
THE ART OF LETTING GO
THE DOSHAS
HALLOWEEN
THE TRUE HISTORY
BREAK FREE FROM THE GLOOM AND DOOM
OF THE DAILY NEWS
OCTOBER 2019
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THE REJUVENIZER Phyllis Light, Ph.D & Telepathic Healer
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Contents
AMERICA’S OLDEST SPIRITUAL AND METAPHYSICAL MAGAZINE
FEATURES
24
12 HALLOWEEN
The True History by Walter Perschke
16 HARMONY THROUGH AYURVEDA
The Doshas by Swati Mhaske
20 FULL MOON OCTOBER 13, 2019
The Power to Transform by Donna Stellhorn
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24 RAISING KINDER CHILDREN by Robyn Spizman
26 THE ART OF LETTING GO by Joyce and Barry Vissell
28 WHAT IS HYPNOSIS?
37
by Stephanie Jarmuth
37 BREAK FREE
from the Gloom and Doom of the Daily News by Laura Clay
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DEPARTMENTS 06 PUBLISHER’S LETTER Let’s Go Orange! by Kasia Szumal
08 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS October 2019 11 ASK ALECIA Community Q&A
Ask Alecia – October 2019 by Alecia Rice
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OCTOBER 2019 VOLUME 41, NO.2
14 ALL ABOUT TOWN TheosoFest by Theresa Puskar
18 FROM THE HEART What It’s Really For by Alan Cohen
30 HEALTHY EATING Orange is the New Pink
A Link to Cancer Prevention
by Betsy Bruns
34 COSMIC DAILY WEATHER In–Depth Astrology Perspectives
October 2019
by Bernadette Evans
CONNECTIONS 22 MIDWEST PULSE CALENDAR Events, Happenings and Announcements of Interest
October 2019
32 BUSINESS DIRECTORY Resources for Better Living
REVIEWS 38 IN PRINT by Kayla Hancock
™
(Formerly The Monthly Aspectarian)
PUBLISHER KATARZYNA (KASIA) SZUMAL EDITORS JANAE JEAN ALMEN SUSAN PLUTO JULIE ROBERTS MEDIA COORDINATORS JANAE JEAN ALMEN KAYLA HANCOCK SPENCER SCHLUTER ART DIRECTOR/WEBMASTER JODY LEVITAN ADVERTISING INQUIRIES KASIA SZUMAL KASIA@CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM 847.966.1110 SPENCER SCHLUTER SPENCER@CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM 630.492.0831 EDITORIAL INQUIRIES KASIA SZUMAL KASIA@CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM 847.966.1110 JANAE JEAN ALMEN JANAE@CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM ALL OTHER INQUIRIES INFO@CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM ONLINE WWW.CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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ON THE COVER Halloween
CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY is published 12 times yearly by CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY, LLC 47 W. Polk St., Suite 153 Chicago, IL 60605 847.966.1110 © 2019 Conscious Community, LLC. Formerly The Monthly Aspectarian. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher. Conscious Community does not necessarily agree with opinions of the writers, nor is it liable for advertiser claims or representations. We believe in the reader’s judgment regarding the quality of any information. All ads should be received by the 10th of the month preceding publication. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER
LET’S GO ORANGE! R
ight now, I am in a state of gratitude! This past month was full of great opportunities to expand Conscious Community Magazine’s readership. For the first time ever, I was on the Polish radio station, WNVR AM 1030 in Chicago, talking about spirituality, and I was able to help Polish-speaking listeners become familiar with Conscious Community Magazine. Also, I spoke at the Stellar Women Tribe Conference and I took some training that I always wanted to take. Additionally, I received some calls from new readers of Conscious Community Magazine telling me how they are grateful for community and connection our magazine provides for them. And, as of September, we now offer the Conscious Community Magazine website in Polish and Spanish! Go to www. ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com, click on the Polish or Spanish flag and read all of our articles in English, Polish or Spanish!
KATARZYNA (KASIA) SZUMAL PUBLISHER
In October, we celebrate Halloween, which in its many forms, is one of the most recognizable celebrations around the world. This holiday reminds me that there is life on the other side and that we can communicate with our departed friends and family all the time…if we are aware of that or not. See one of our all-time favorite articles, Halloween: The True History by Walter Perschke, for more about Halloween. A lot of Halloween celebrations focus on trick-or-treating or other activities for children. To learn about how to teach children that kindness is the best treat of all, see Robyn Spizman’s Raising Kinder Children. She reminds us that “kindness starts at home.” For more about connection and why there are no coincidences in life, read Alan Cohen’s column, What It’s Really For. Also, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I have a friend who was diagnosed with breast cancer, and I am sure many of you know of someone, or have faced breast cancer in your life. Statistics show that the number of people getting cancer is going up. As many of you know, I am a huge advocate for eating a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle. As Betsy Bruns says in Orange is the New Pink: A Link to Cancer Prevention, “Lifestyle choices are responsible for up to 70% of cancer diagnoses.” We have the power to decide what we put into our mouths. We should “Let thy food be thy medicine,” as Hippocrates said. For more about cancerpreventing foods, and recipes, read Betsy’s article. Finally, I just want to say thank you to all of Conscious Community Magazine’s readers for supporting our advertisers, and thank you to all the people that keep this magazine a free publication, available for everyone in print and online. When we are sharing, we are all growing! Enjoy reading our October issue! Happy Halloween! The Best,
Katarzyna Szumal
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COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS
tingly proclaimed the fact: mycelium is everywhere, whether seen or unseen. Experts including groundbreaking scientist/ mycologist Paul Stamets and authors Michael Pollan, Eugenia Bone and Andrew Weil reveal the ways in which mushrooms harbor a vast and barely explored potential for healing, renewing the environment, providing sustenance and altering consciousness, but only if mankind is savvy enough to tap their enormous power. Awe-inspiring time-lapse macro cinematography by director Schwartzberg (Wings of Life) brings mushrooms and their underworld networks to astonishing vibrant life for a don’t-miss experience.
Yinyasa Yoga Class Sundays, Oct. 6, 13, 20 and 27, 2019, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Yinyasa is a hybrid of yang (active) yoga with yin (passive) yoga. We will begin with 30 minutes of gentle yoga to build strength, warmth and flow with fundamental yoga postures while relieving stress and tension by connecting breath with mindful movements. We will finish with yin to create flexibility, mindfulness and softness to release the connective tissues, create space and integrity in the joints, and remove blockages to internal energy flow. This class is suitable for all ages, abilities and physical conditions. This class is practiced in an unheated room. All levels are welcome. Location: Ivy Nicole Natural Remedies, 24140 W. Lockport St., Plainfield, IL 60544.
Director Louie Schwartzberg is scheduled to appear for audience discussion on Friday (8 p.m. only – tentative) and Saturday. Fantastic Fungi, 2018, Louie Schwartzberg, USA, 81 min., narrated by Brie Larson, DCP digital. Location: Gene Siskel Film Center of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, located at 164 N. State St. Chicago, IL 60601. Visit http://www.siskelfilmcenter.org/fantastic-fungi for more information. Cost: Tickets to each screening—unless stated otherwise—are $12/general admission, $7/students and $6/Film Center members.
Visit www.ivynicolenaturalremedies.com or call 815-6301151 for more information. Cost: $15 per class
Fantastic Fungi Premiere with Director Louie Schwartzberg Q&A (Opening Weekend)
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Immortal Hero Film
Friday, Oct. 18 – Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019
Friday, Oct. 25, 2019
From Friday, Oct.18 through Thursday, Oct. 24, the Gene Siskel Film Center will present the Chicago premiere of Fantastic Fungi. This revealing and marvelously mind-boggling documentary explores the hidden kingdom of mushrooms, the unique fruit of mycelium, an all-pervasive fungal network that not only lives beneath our feet but subversively dominates the earth. The 50s rockabilly hit “There Was a Fungus Among Us,” unwit-
Eastern New Thought Meets Western New Thought in Immortal Hero, a film based on the epiphany that has inspired Ryuho Okawa to lead Happy Science, Japan’s budding spiritual movement that has been around for more than 30 years, will open in Chicago on October 25, 2019.
| CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2019
Based on the true story of the near-death-experience that compelled Ryuho Okawa to devote his life to spreading the truth he
Trinity Health Freedom Expo is a comprehensive natural and alternative health forum, featuring dozens of dynamic health experts, two topical panels, educational lectures and demonstrations. Created to educate and empower attendees, the expo is about meeting people, making discoveries and having a hands-on experience with products and techniques, all under one roof during one weekend. received from the spiritual realms and masters, Immortal Hero tells the dramatic, inspiring story of Makoto Mioya, a highly successful Japanese writer and publisher who miraculously heals himself from a fatal heart condition after a near-death visitation from powerful spiritual beings. As part of the recovery process, Makoto writes about his powerful ‘rebirth’ as an enlightened and transformed teacher. Although he faces challenges at home and abroad, Makoto promises to use the second chance at life he has been blessed with to make a positive difference for as many people as possible. He commits to ‘die for the truth,’ a powerful covenant that defines the purity and intensity of his message of love, our mutual responsibility for one another and world peace. For more information, theaters and showtimes, please visit www.immortal-hero.com.
Trinity Health Freedom Expo Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Empowering the future of natural health, the Trinity Health Freedom Expo will take place on Oct. 26 and 27 at the Tinley Park Convention Center in Tinley Park, IL. There will be 100 booths to browse and shop. Guests will encounter the newest products for consumers, practitioners and business owners; along with the latest technology such as state-of-the-art electronics, massage techniques and cutting-edge modalities.
Location: Tinley Park Convention Center, 18451 Convention Center Drive, Tinley Park, IL 60477. For more information, call 888-658-3976, email Info@ TrinityHealthFreedomExpo.com or visit trinityhealthfreedomexpo.com. Cost: Admission is $30 per day or $50 for both days. The George Noory luncheon is an additional $50. The cost for a booth is $795 through Oct. 15, 2019.
Renew Conference Saturday, Nov.16, 2019, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. This is a healing and grief conference that is uplifting, inspirational, spiritual and above all else informational. Grief affects everyone differently and grief encompasses the passing of a loved one and more although that can be one of the major factors. It’s surviving the dayto-day challenges many of us face including divorce, trauma, addiction, job loss, financial challenges, health issues, depression and anxiety, and so much more. Our event will address these issues and our award-winning speakers will help you navigate your way out of hurt and pain and into peace and emotional well-being. These leading international grief and trauma practitioners, bestselling authors, spiritual mentors and leaders in their fields will share their experiences and expertise and give you the power you need to live a more purposeful loving life. Location: Chicago Marriott Naperville, 1801 N. Naper Blvd, Naperville, IL 60563. Visit RenewConference.life or call 815-671-4950 for more information. Cost: $75 for Early Bird ticket. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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[COMMUNITY Q&A]
ASK ALECIA by Alecia Rice
Q: I have a long-time best friend who’s Christian, Republican, kind, goodhearted and thoughtful. We’ve shared politically differing views on gun control, immigration, healthcare, etc. Lately, these issues have us questioning each other’s morals, which is creating problems in our relationship. What can I do to resolve this? — Other-Side-of-the-Fence A: Dear Other-Side-of-the-Fence,
Lately, there’s a lot of talk as to whether maintaining a relationship with someone who “thinks that way” makes us “complicit” in what we feel is politically immoral. It may be semantics, but being complicit means that we’re actually participating in and encouraging wrongdoings with others which isn’t the case for most of us. We’re all products of our upbringing and life experiences. Some people may seem to lack some of the moral fiber we aspire to, but if we judged each person morally, chances are we’d never have any friends. If a friend were treating children in an immoral way or hurting people directly, then we’d likely end that relationship, but if one merely differs in how we think things should be handled politically, is that a good reason to end long-term relationships? Maybe...or maybe not. Should one desire to keep a friend with differing politics in their life, it’s advisable to set boundaries around how the offending issues will be discussed...or not. One might easily set ground rules for civil discourse, yet if either party is TOO passionate and dogmatic then that 10
| CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2019
really doesn’t work. Sometimes we have to remove the topic(s) from the table to ensure no additional division while preserving some form of the relationship, although possibly in a different form. Jesus is a symbol of unconditional love. Was he “complicit’ when he kept company with sinners? No. I think he loved everyone—even Judas—and allowed them personal access to positively influence and heal those on a path that didn’t serve the collective in healthy, positive ways. Did he adopt their ways? No. I think he knew that it would be harder for him to be a light for them if he turned them away. Whether one is a Christian or not, I’d ask “What would Jesus do?” I believe that he would love ALL unconditionally, but that doesn’t mean that we’re required to keep them close. If one’s inner peace is shattered due to feeling that they’re doing something “wrong” by staying friends, then maybe it needs to end. I recommend discernment though, because there’s a slight difference in feeling culpable about being connected with someone with contrasting beliefs when, in fact, we’re annoyed that they don’t believe the same things that we do. Watch for the cognitive dissonance of the “echo chamber” which only hears what we want to hear. We can’t influence those we have no connection with. Cutting them away destroys our ability to influence them through positive words, deeds and actions, which may leave them keeping company only with those of like minds
who may lead them even further down their rabbit holes. We can’t change another, merely ourselves. Judgment creates walls and divisions. Curiosity is expansive and respectful. It allows others their opinions which opens up the potential for understanding. Instead of judging someone who has a different opinion, I’d suggest asking neutral, expansive opening questions, such as “Why do you feel that way?” or “What led you to that conclusion?” You may learn something you didn’t know before. If the relationship isn’t causing direct harm, one might err on the side of keeping a thin strand of attachment while allowing more space until we can return to a sense of normality. I believe our current divisions are more in our favor than we realize, because without them rising to the surface we wouldn’t engage in discourse to collectively decide our future path. Humans typically despise change. We generally won’t make big changes until we enter into a state of discomfort. I believe that our current state is assisting us in consciously ushering in a more humanitarian existence where ALL are considered equal without regard to race, sex, age, statehood, religion or socio-economic status. I suggest keeping our eyes and intentions inward and upward in hopes that we’ll eventually co-create greener pastures of harmony and brother/sisterhood. Judgment only brings sadness and a painful sense of separation. Seek the Go(o)d in everyone while trying to practice compassion and curiosity instead of judgment. Standing in curiosity while creating space for others allows us to be the brightest light possible to build bridges across these divides. I think Jesus would do the same. Alecia Rice integrates higher concepts with wisdom to bring forth balance, perspective and clarity. She’s a personal advisor, speaker and gatherer of women. For perspective on life’s issues, you’re invited to text questions and comments to 681321-1109. Discussions continue at Ask Alecia on Facebook.
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HALLOWEEN THE TRUE HISTORY by Walter Perschke Halloween is ancient. We know it dates back to the ancient Celtic and Druid traditions thousands of years ago. Ancient Celtics divided the year into two parts, the light and the dark. The holiday of Samhain (sah’-wen) celebrated the dividing point between the two halves, and the beginning of the dark half. As the harvest was completed and the days grew shorter, a harvest festival was celebrated on October 31, until sunset on November 1st. The festival was a celebration of a successful harvest and prayers to carry the people through the winter until spring. It could be a scary time of possible food shortages; nights were fearful and a time to stay home. One of the beliefs of the ancient Celts was that time and space became permeable and one could cross from one dimension to another at this time. It also meant that spirits of the dead could cross over into the Celts’ reality and interact with them; a haunting if you will. Not just the dead could cross over, but people or entities from other times, because the veil lifted was not just of time, but of space as well. The veil between the living and the dead was at its thinnest, the dead could mingle with the living, and the living could be lost in the dimension of the spirits. This is at the root of many of the Halloween traditions. Our obsession with Halloween decorations of skeletons, tombstones, coffins and ghosts probably began right there in Celtic practices. Bonfires were a staple of Samhain. The Celts observed a ritual where they drove their cattle between two rows of bonfires to determine which cattle were to be slaughtered for the winter. The celebration of the dead was not limited to the Celtic culture. Many, if not most cultures, in particular Ireland and Scotland, had a day, or period of a day, to celebrate those who have crossed over in death. Agricultural societies were very prominent in their observance of a holiday for the dead, usually coinciding with the end of the fall harvest. The traditions of the holiday for the dead in pagan cultures were carried forward to us today by the Christian church. Adopting a pagan date for a church holiday was a fairly common practice in the Christian church, which also adopted December 25, the birthdate of the pagan god Mithra, for another famous Christian holiday. 12
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The practice was believed by the church to facilitate the conversion of pagans, who were already celebrating these days, to Christianity. It looks like it worked. Lemuria, the ancient Roman feast of the dead, celebrated on May 13, was the end of a period of placating the dead. This was a time of not just honoring, but making peace with the departed. In Roman times, milk was poured on graves to prevent haunting. They were also offered small cakes, which over the centuries have been transformed into today’s candy “treats.” Pope Boniface IV coopted Lemuria, changing the name to All Saints’ Day, all the way back in the year 609 A.D. The stated purpose was changed, but the traditions and practices of the celebration were passed on in great part. All Saints’ Day was renamed All Hallows’ Day and moved to November 1st, the day after Samhain, in an effort to supplant the pagan holiday. History does not give us an exact date, but it probably occurred during the papacy of Gregory III (731-741). As a result, October 31st began to be called “All Hallows Evening,” then shortened to “All Hallows Even” and we were on our way to the shorter name we know today, of Halloween. Further enhancing the tradition and mystique of Halloween, the church added November 2nd to the calendar as an “All Souls’ Day,” to honor all who have passed on from life on earth. This reinforced the association of Halloween with death and souls. Purgatory, a church concept, played a role in the development of our Halloween traditions and practices. Catholic theology says that souls in purgatory, a place between heaven and hell, can be elevated to heaven by the prayers of the living. A Medieval custom, children would go “souling” door to door and receive spiced cakes filled with raisins called “soul cakes,” in exchange for praying for the souls in purgatory, with this practice contributing to today’s trick-or-treat. The endless cycle of life and death was a part of many traditions, not just Halloween. The practice of wearing masks came into prominence in the early 1600’s, often associated with violence because the mask concealed the identity of the perpetrators. The practices leading to today’s Halloween had become more rowdy and some-
times violent. Door to door beggars, often children, but more frequently adult indigents, became more aggressive with their door to door begging. The “trick” part of trick-or-treat came progressively into being, with violent demonstrations and vandalism, including bonfires, against the resident population. The boundaries between life and death were not the only ones tested, social norms and public behavior were as well. Guy Fawkes, on November 5, 1605, tried to blow up The House of Lords in England. While Fawkes was unsuccessful and subsequently hanged, a new event that is still practiced today in parts of England began to mock and celebrate his attempt by parading in the streets, begging door to door, and setting bonfires. Guy Fawkes Day is also known as bonfire night, in part because after his hanging, his body was burned in a bonfire. All of this transpired in Europe, but the colonization of America was about to begin. The early American colonists brought some of their Halloween precursor traditions with them from Europe to the New World, including the fascination with death and the departed. Guy Fawkes Day was among them. The Pilgrims were not particularly receptive to this event, but they had their own contribution to make to Halloween; witches. The witch craze that swept Europe and America in the 1600’s, and well into the 1700’s, solidified the images we now associate with this holiday. Broomsticks, cauldrons, black cats and pointed hats were all fairly commonplace household staples in colonial homes, but their association with witches became indelible with the Salem and other witch trials of their time. Why? Who knows? There are no further recorded influences on our modern Halloween until the American Civil War. With a half-million or more dead during the war, many of their bodies unclaimed and unknown, gossip began which became legend. The souls of the dead, lost on the battlefield, return home as ghosts to haunt their familiar places, or to live as ghosts, wandering in the limbo of the battlefields and surrounding areas. Ghost stories were not new at this time, but the War Between the States gave rise to a myriad of new tales of the realm of the dead. Incidentally, the practice of wearing a white sheet as a ghost costume arose from the burial shroud common in Western Europe and America then. The attachment of these stories to the developing celebration of Halloween was just a matter of time. Following the war, a major immigration to America from Scotland and Ireland began. Both nationalities had their own version of Halloween which became integrated into our now native legends. The Scots brought us the bogeyman and the stories were very scary. In their tradition, the bogies, or bogeymen, were pesky ghosts bothering children. We are not certain where the tale of Jack O’Lantern originated, but the new wave of immigrants brought it with them to our shores. It did originate in Europe, and the original lanterns were carved with faces from a turnip and placed in windows to ward off evil spirits. Pumpkins came later, an American contribution that happens to be harvested at just the right time. Scots and Irish also donated the stone throwing and prank playing by adolescent boys to our culture; not that we wouldn’t have created it for ourselves. This practice was to erupt in very destructive ways that surpassed just a public nuisance during the 1920’s and early 1930’s in America.
While all this was going on, Halloween, which had been a predominantly rural phenomenon, continued its migration into the cities. The 1920-1939 period was transformational for Halloween. It was a time of great stress, beginning with the Roaring 20’s and ending in the Great Depression. The permissiveness of the former coupled with the crowding in the cities created an opportune environment for the next incarnation of this holiday. The trick part of trick-or-treat became very violent in the cities. Pranks that had been benign became malicious and destructive. Throwing stones became window breaking on a major scale, including the windows of those newfangled automobiles. The bonfires in the streets and open areas became torched buildings. This destruction peaked in 1933, during the Great Depression and that became known as Black Halloween, and sometimes Hell Night. But the aftermath was very positive. Civic groups began to organize community events which included parades, costume parties and contests, and games. A manufacturer, Dennison, began to mass produce costumes for sale at the local drugstores and dime stores. Sears, then the largest retailer in America, listed costumes and paraphernalia in its catalogues for the first time. The mass merchandisers had discovered Halloween and it had ‘arrived’ in close to its present form. The malicious destruction was over and commercialism was on the rise. But the story is not over yet, and perhaps it never will be, as we reinvent this popular holiday yet again. The term “trick-or-treat” is relatively new. The practice, as we have seen, is quite old, but the term first appeared in print in America in 1939. Trick-or-treating became indelibly mainstream when it received the blessing of an American icon, Charlie Brown, in the 1966 comic strip, Peanuts. Trick-or-treating had officially arrived and so had the theme of the “Great Pumpkin.” I would be remiss if I did not mention one more twist in the road. In 1978, the classic John Carpenter movie ‘Halloween’ was introduced. Scary, you bet! And that is exactly the new face we were presented with. Not exactly a new idea, but definitely a new face, or mask. Michael Myers became the best-selling mask of all time, and we have a new log rekindling the fire of Halloween. Films and television have had a profound effect on how we practice and celebrate Halloween. It is now a major adult activity, which it wasn’t 50 years ago. It is still primarily a day for the kids, but adults are increasingly involved, not just as parents, but as participants, especially in costumes. There is a self-transformation aspect of American society that has found an outlet here. Once a year, people get to play out their fantasies in full costume and share it with other adults. Hopefully this is not their only avenue of selftransformation, but if it is (or isn’t), I hope they have lots of fun with it. Where else can grown men get to be action figures and women get to be ladies of the night?
Walter Perschke was the previous publisher of Conscious Community Magazine, formerly The Monthly Aspectarian, America’s oldest spiritual and metaphysical magazine. Mr. Perschke was a Professor of Metaphysics, wrote, taught, and spoke frequently on metaphysical subjects, and was a popular guest speaker at conferences and seminars. Walter was nominated for an Emmy Award and was a member of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. Walter passed away in May of 2016. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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[ALL ABOUT TOWN]
THEOSOFEST
THEOSOPHICAL SOCIETY, WHEATON, IL - September 7, 2019 by Theresa Puskar “When I commit to inner integrity, I’m amazed at how often I catch myself caught in a web of hypocrisy.” — Theresa Puskar I always enjoy attending TheosoFest and this year was no exception! This year, we had the perfect day for the festival—not too hot, not too cold and not too windy. It was just right. Theresa Puskar and Bhante Sujatha
The first event that I attended was Bhante Sujatha’s presentation, The Buddhist Way to Radiant Joy. He is a monk and founder of the Blue Lotus Temple. What first struck me upon meeting him was his lightness of being. He radiated a sense of buoyancy and joy that was palpable. I overheard him respond as one of the facilitators asked him what he was planning on discussing with the group. He said that he had no idea and that he will speak about whatever arises in the moment. Clearly, he had faith and trusted that all would unfold as it should.
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His statement took me back over 10 years to the time that I was an audiobook producer at Nightingale-Conant. When I wrote the outlines for the audio programs we co-created, I did so with a caveat. When I began the recording session, I always asked the author’s permission to stray away from the outline, should there be a nudging within me of another subject arising. I found more often than not, the Universe would deliver new messages during the recording process. If I was rigid and only adhering to the outline, they would have been missed. (They were often the golden nuggets that were the highlights of the program.) You might ask yourself, “When do I allow my fear to dictate my choices? Can I organize my life, but then allow the universe to show me new, exciting paths that might take me in another direction?” It takes a leap of faith but with practice, you will discover that when you are a trusting conduit, the Universe has your back! “When you search, you will always be disappointed. The day you stop searching for happiness is the day you will find it!” — Bhante Sujatha Bhante opened the session sharing how he noted that all of the vendors were committed to supporting love in their endeavors. The skeptic in me reared her critical head and thought about those who have a sense of lack, anxiously trying to sell their
wares or services. Then I caught myself witnessing the judgmental thoughts that were going through my head. Soon after, that insightful and honest inner voice responded, “Why are you triggered, Theresa? Let’s investigate. How and where are you feeling lack and a sense of neediness in your life?” I was immediately taken to a lesson that I recently received. A couple of months ago, I was playing the game, Catalyst, with some girlfriends. In the game, I wrote down an issue (or learning opportunity) that I wanted to resolve. Mine was the anxiety that came with so many “almost” opportunities I had when promoting my solo show. I almost got to perform it at an Empowering Women workshop that Marianne Williamson was offering. I also had an opportunity to perform it on the Celebrate Your Life stage here in Chicago, but they both retracted their offer. While I had received accolades by critics and audience members who saw the show, I was struggling to market it. I was feeling angry, bitter, defeated and a huge sense of lack around the situation. Within a couple of days of playing the game, I noted a shift. The answer became crystal clear. Somehow the angst around the situation had dissipated, and I resolved to let the show go. Soon after, I was offered two performance opportunitie: one here in Chicago in January, and the other at the SaraSolo Festival in Florida in February. (Florida in February—I’m there!) This was a shining example of that saying that I am sure is familiar to you, “When you let go, the energy shifts and things begin to manifest.” The trick is in getting to the point where you truly surrender. I noted how much physical and emotional energy I lost in being frustrated about the situation. In all honesty, I noted my “lack” attitude and got tired of feeling angry. Is there any situation in which you too are tired of losing energy? If so, can you truly let it go, without any expectations? The more you seek, the unhappier you will be. — Bhante Sujatha After the introduction, Bhante shared the realization he had. “If I am searching for happiness, I am in trouble. The search is so tiring, and I found that at the end of the day I am exhausted.” Through years of trial and error, he noted that the more he searched for happiness, the unhappier he was. Just like my experience with my show, he reminded us that “The day you stop searching for happiness is the day you will find it!” He reminded us that when we search, we will always be disappointed. He shared the story of a woman who went into a rage attack at a restaurant he was visiting. As he watched the woman’s anger grow, someone he was dining with asked, “Is there anything we can do right now?” Bhante responded, “Just wait.” He then proceeded to ask his friend, “Ten years ago, I could have been that woman myself. Buddha came to us in the form of the angry woman. Thus, we need to be kind to her for the sake of our own joy and contentment.” He went on to say that the secret to our contentment is to take care of our senses. “Seeing things is not a problem. The problem is HOW we see things. For example, eating is not the problem, but how we eat is. Watch yourself closely, just like a security camera watches over your home. Then just wait and be patient. No need to interfere with it. Just be patient and let things change.”
Another opportunity to witness my hypocrisy. When you focus, the learning comes in droves! The lesson Bhante shared manifested in my own experience almost immediately. After his workshop, I attended a wonderful Spirit Circle Drumming session with Karen Drumming Circle Tlusty-Rissman. I left it feeling energized, grounded and connected. Then I got into my car. What a sense of humor the Universe has! As we pulled out of the parking lot, each driver respectfully and diligently followed one another. Then, abruptly, as we were driving along the back road of the grounds through the vendor area, the car in front of me stopped. He didn’t try to pull to the side of the road but stopped dead center, so that none of the hundreds of cars following him could move. I rolled down my window and said, “Sir. You can’t stop here. You’re blocking hundreds of cars that are trying to leave.” He was a vendor and said that he had to pack his boxes into his car and proceeded to walk away. I told him that he would have to move his car. He refused. It wasn’t until the driver behind me started honking his horn that an attendant approached and told the vendor that he would have to pull over. My inner critic had a field day. As I finally got moving again I cussed him out—of course, to myself, within the confines of my car. (Although I have to confess, my windows were open!) I noted how quickly that feeling of joy and contentment I had left me. As I mumbled about the “selfish” man in the car in front of me, that still wise voice in my mind spoke up yet again, “And when have you been selfish? When are you more focused on fulfilling your own needs, irrespective of how doing so affects others?” In response, experiences of selfish scenarios I created flooded my mind. I have to say that, while I wouldn’t give up my journey towards greater consciousness for a second, sometimes looking in the mirror and owning my foibles and follies really sucks! Theresa Puskar is an author, performer, speaker, minister and motivational audiobook producer. She is the creator of the “Terri” children’s book series, an actress and director, as well as a powerful inspirational speaker and transition leader. Theresa edu-tains her audiences, by touching hearts and minds in a way that is engaging, joyful and life-affirming. Her most recent endeavors are her new company, Dragon Soup Children’s Theatre Training and Productions, and her upcoming books, 8 Ways to De-Clutter Your Brain and The Good Morning Mind: Seven Highly Effective Habits for the Workplace. (They are both available for pre-orders on Amazon. com.) For more information, visit www.TheresaPuskar.com. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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HARMONY THROUGH AYURVEDA THE DOSHAS
by Swati Mhaske Today, many people are seeking out natural methods for their health care needs. With the modern pace of life, where we are constantly forced to make unhealthy diet choices, our bodies and minds need healing. Healing attuned with nature restores both the body and mind. Ayurveda is such a method. Ayurveda originated in India about eight millennia ago. The name Ayurveda, a compound of Sanskrit words Ayus, signifying life and Veda, signifying knowledge. According to the ancient texts on Ayurveda; the Charaka Samhita, Ayurveda is considered to be directly taught by the gods to the rishis (sages) and subsequently to the Vaidyas/Ayurveda practitioners. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of natural healing and holistic medicine. It offers methods that range from everyday habits suitable for everyone to uniquely personalized medicinal treatments. It involves the careful application of a well-balanced healthy diet, lifestyle changes and various herbal remedies to heal. By aligning even a small part of one’s lifestyle with Ayurveda, one will reap the benefits of physical and mental health. Ayurvedic treatments are based on well-founded processes that have been tried and tested successfully for several millennia. It provides a deep understanding towards maintaining a healthy life through routine habits that align with natural body rhythms as well as various natural herbs that assist in bringing the body back into balance. Even today the healing potential of Ayurveda continues to amaze the novice and accomplished alike. Being a system deeply rooted in nature, Ayurvedic healing utilizes innumerable products of nature. The fundamentals on which the Ayurvedic system is based are essentially true for all times and do not change in time or place. 16
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BALANCE OF THE MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT Mind and Body
A healthy mind can reside in a healthy body and only a healthy body can support a healthy mind. Ayurveda understands this deep relationship between the body and mind. It even has a formal script called Padartha Vidnyana (Science of Elements) that describes this interdependence and ways of restoring this mind and body balance. The mind has a powerful effect on the overall health and wellbeing of an individual. An Ayurveda practitioner understands this connection and makes recommendations to the individual that involve changes to habits, dietary choices and overall lifestyle changes. Where modern medicine masks the symptoms or treats specific pain, Ayurveda aims to allow the body to heal and also aids it with natural supplements. This gentle approach of aiding the body to heal allows a long-term benefit to the body and mind. The body is the existence of the physical/elemental form of being. The mind-body is balanced by the functional principles of three energetic forces known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Each dosha has a fundamental function in the human body. According to Ayurveda, these three doshas are influenced by the most important elements in nature—fire, water, earth, space and air. Each dosha is primarily formed by the combination of two such elements.
The Doshas According to Ayurveda, each individual has a unique constitution established at birth. How each person eats, lives, and interacts with his/her environment is based on their unique constitution.
A disease in Ayurveda is an imbalance of the three doshas. Each individual has a unique balance of these three doshas. This uniqueness governs the body type, energy levels, appetite and even emotions. The concept that every individual has his/ her “own unique constitution” is one of the fundamentals of Ayurveda medicine. Vata Dosha (air and space elements) is characterized by its active nature, where its primary function is movement and communication. The primary restoring consideration for Vata-predominant individuals is having a steady routine. This can prove to be one of the most difficult things for the Vata-predominant individual to achieve; they tend to change their mind very often. Vātas need to maintain a routine regarding diet, work habits, exercise, sleep, etc. Pitta Dosha (fire and water elements) is characterized by the transformative nature, where the primary function is transformation and digestion. The primary restoring consideration for pitta-predominant individuals is cooling down—both the body and emotional tendencies. Pitta-predominant individuals are born to be tidy and organized, however, they often go overboard. They should avoid being too intense. They need to remember that life is for living and is meant to be enjoyed. Letting go of their overly-competitive edge can be very beneficial for Pittapredominant individuals. They are best served when they take the time to participate in soothing activities such as taking a relaxing walk or sitting outside on a clear summer night staring at the moon. Kapha Dosha (earth and water elements) reflects the binding nature, stability of the elements. Hence, its primary functions are cohesiveness, lubrication and giving structure. The primary restoring consideration for Kapha-predominant individuals is to activity and variety. If you cannot stand any form of change, you are most likely Kapha-predominant in your psychophysiological makeup. Kapha-predominant individuals do best when they add a few variations to their daily and seasonal routines. For example, they might choose to walk for exercise one day and then to dance another. Or, they might go running or play tennis. They benefit greatly from a wide assortment of activities from day to day.
The Spirit
The spirit is the true nature/soul or the existence of a human being. The spirit, according to Ayurveda, works in coordination with the mind and the body, controlling the basic physical and psychological qualities of an individual. The spirit is defined by the qualities of truth, self-awareness and a tendency to live a harmonious life.
HEALTH WITH AYURVEDA Health according to this ancient knowledge is the balance and harmony between the Mind, Body and Spirit. which is achieved
through the balance between the three doshas, five elements and the chakras. Here are a few simple tips towards achieving an Ayurvedabased healing: Maintain the sanctity of the senses – Ayurveda suggests limiting the overuse and abuse of senses whenever you can. Misuse of the senses (called asatmya-indriyartha-samyoga) is one of the main causes of imbalance in one’s body. For example, we may overuse the sense of taste by overeating in a single meal or eating too often. At the same time, eating too little or eating at irregular intervals would become detrimental to the body as well as using food to control our lives. Regular flushing of toxins – According to Ayurveda, the changes and circumstances in the environment and your life cannot be controlled many times. Regular practice of detoxification is a key to good health and harmony. Alignment with Nature – Lifestyle changes according to the environmental factors, such as the season or weather.
Seasonal Routine (Ritucharya)
Seasonal changes can potentially cause an imbalance in doshas. We cannot control these changes but we can maintain balance by adapting our lifestyle accordingly. As we approach Fall/Winter, let us shed some light on the diet and lifestyle Ayurveda suggests to follow. During this season, people gain strength and a powerful digestive fire because the fire gets obstructed from flowing outward due to external cold and dry weather. One should consume, warm, cooked, sweet and salty foods. We tend to feel hungry early in the morning, due to the longer nights. Consumption of warm water, cooked breakfast foods like oatmeal or sautéed apples and a warm cup of herbal tea (see recipe below) will help keep the cold, dry qualities of Vata at bay. Also, foods that are heavy and oily, such as bananas, avocados, winter squash, nuts and healthy fats, are recommended to counterbalance the dry air. Additionally, most spices work well in the winter as they have a heat-like quality that combats the cold. Abhaynga (an oil massage) in cold, dry weather is very beneficial. Keeping warm by natural means, like exposure to sunlight or warmth of a fire is also recommended. Ayurvedic Herbal Tea 4 cups water 1 tablespoon fennel seeds 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
2 pods of cardamom 1 tablespoon of honey
Heat water in a pot. Add slightly crushed fennel seeds, coriander seeds and cardamom pods. Boil for three minutes. After the tea is warm, add honey. Strain and serve hot. Swati Mhaske is a doctor of Ayurveda, M.S, and owner of HemaVeda Ayurveda, LLC in Crystal Lake, IL, which provides Ayurvedic healing for a happy and healthy life. Visit www.hemaveda.com. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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[FROM THE HEART]
WHAT IT’S REALLY FOR by Alan Cohen
I was stunned to see the long line of customers waiting in front of the rental car desk. As I counted 50 people and just a few agents to service them, I realized I would be here for at least an hour. Never again will I rent from this company. As I chatted with Tom, a fellow in line behind me, I remembered I had a membership to the rental company’s express club. “If I go to the express desk on the lower level, maybe they’ll expedite my rental,” I thought out loud. Tom told me, “Go ahead—I’ll hold your place.” Wow, how thoughtful! I told him thanks, and if I didn’t return, I would save a seat for him in heaven. 18
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When I found the express desk also glutted, I returned to the regular line where my new friend let me back in as he had promised. As the line slowly advanced, Tom and I got to know each other, laughing and telling stories. The frustration of being in the long queue dissipated and the time went more quickly. When I finally reached the front of the line, I told Tom to go ahead of me. We shook hands warmly and wished each other well. A Course in Miracles asks us to remember, “I do not know what anything is for.” It explains that rewarding relationships provide the express route to healing. While I believed my purpose in that
line was to get a rental car, my more meaningful opportunity was to connect with another human being and help each other through a difficult situation. We gave each other a miracle. Jewish theologian Martin Buber said, “All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware.” The ego’s destinations are always material. The spirit’s destinations run deeper. We believe that we are here to get somewhere physically, while we are really here to get somewhere spiritually. Never accept an experience–especially a challenging one–at face value. There is always more going on than meets the eye–a doorway to a blessing.
My friend Nadine, had been housesitting at different homes in Hawaii for several years, and she yearned to have her own place in the small town of Waimea. One day, while Nadine was sunbathing on the beach, a dog who had just frolicked in the ocean came and shook water on her, startling her. Soon the dog’s owner arrived and apologized. As the two women began to chat, the lady explained that she had been renting a cottage in Waimea, but she had to move out, and she was looking for someone to take over the lease. When Nadine heard the details, she couldn’t believe her ears. The cottage was exactly what she had been looking for. A month later, Nadine moved into her ideal situation. The wet, shaking dog at first seemed to be a nuisance but turned out to be an angel. Don’t be hasty to judge nuisances as bad. If you are willing to look deeper, they always contain a gift. A friend told me, “Interruptions are the best part of my day.”
waiting for a stroke of vertical awareness. As spiritual beings, material experiences alone cannot fulfill us. It is only when we find spiritual purpose that we feel fulfilled. A teacher posed a question to his students: “Imagine you wake up one morning and feel like having some French toast, but you don’t have any eggs. So, you go to the corner mini-mart, pick up some eggs and have a brief chat with the clerk. Since you know him from your regular visits, you ask him how his kid is doing in his new school. Then you head back and cook your French toast. What was the purpose of your trip to the grocery store?” The teachers’ students answered, “To buy some eggs.” “Not really,” the teacher replied. “That was just the excuse to get you into the
store to connect with the clerk. Life is more about relationships than eggs.” There is a nobler purpose to every experience than meets the eye. No encounter is by chance. Everything that happens is designed to lead us to spiritual reward and growth. When we realize that life is about connecting more than getting somewhere, we find treasure right where we stand—even in line. Alan Cohen is the bestselling author of A Course in Miracles Made Easy. Join Alan and musician Karen Drucker in Hawaii, Dec. 1-6, 2019 for an extraordinary retreat, “A Course in Miracles: The Easy Path.” Alan’s Holistic Life Coach training begins Jan. 1, 2020. For more information about these programs, his books and videos, free daily inspirational quotes, online courses and weekly radio show, visit www.alancohen.com.
The lofty practice of reframing calls us to take the facts of a situation and look at them from a different angle, to reveal an opportunity. Every situation has only the meaning you give it. If a circumstance feels painful, you are attributing negative purpose to it. When you find another perspective with higher purpose, the problem dissipates and the path clears. Miracles proceed from a shift in perception. In the biblical story, Joseph’s jealous brothers sold him into slavery, and he was later unjustly thrown into prison. As a result of Joseph’s gift of prophecy, he was released and rose to become Pharaoh’s top advisor. Years later when famine befell the region, Joseph’s brothers came to Egypt to beg for food, and they found themselves standing before none other than Joseph. When they apologized for their misdeed, Joseph said, “You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good.” So it is with all challenging situations. What starts out as evil can be turned into good. Every minus is half of a plus CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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FULL MOON OCTOBER 13, 2019 THE POWER TO TRANSFORM by Donna Stellhorn This Full Moon in Aries will be an exceptional time. There is great potential energy here which could be harnessed for your purposes. This Sun/ Moon opposition brings in the energy of Pluto, the planet of transformation, into an exact T-Square, giving you the desire and opportunity to make meaningful changes to an area of your life. Additionally, Jupiter, the planet of luck, blesses the bold transformation you’ve set out to do and helps you get the best possible outcome. The bolder the action, the more luck you have. The general focus of this Aries/Libra Full Moon is on relationships of all kinds. You can form new partnerships and meet new, wonderful people. But you must also look at existing relationships. You may need to set up boundaries where you hadn’t needed them before. And, you may wish to end a close friendship 20
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or relationship unless there can be an agreement to revamp this connection. There’s a desire for something new as Venus opposes Uranus and semi-sextiles Mars. You may find yourself bored with many things in your life. You could start tossing out clothes or wanting to redecorate the house. It’s possible you may want to go deeper and change aspects of yourself. You may want to explore new ways of looking at love and romance. This is a good month to experiment. Your spiritual will is strong as Mercury forms a Water Grand Trine with Neptune, the planet of vision and spirituality, and the North Node, the indicator of your life path. This is a good period to use magic and spiritual practices to make a sacred connection with the Universe and your guides. Add meditation, candle lighting, smudging, tapping
and other modalities to your daily routines. Cut cords with the past and be open to hearing the messages coming in signs and symbols.
ARIES An important business contact is available to you over the next four weeks, symbolized by the tight Full Moon connection to Pluto. Initially, you may feel like it’s their way or no way, but you can strike a beneficial deal in the end. Clear communication can really help as it activates the Trine from Jupiter and the Pluto T-Square. There’s a beneficial Grand Trine for you in water houses indicating support from your family as well as a benefit towards your healing and health. Travel is lucky this month. TAURUS There may be changes to your job because of a merger, company sale or
other shifts in management. There may be new systems to learn. Those older Taurus natives may have the offer of buyout towards early retirement. Happy news comes to you concerning a close relationship or involving a sibling. If you’re considering a new vehicle, now is a good time—except when Mercury goes retrograde on Halloween. Romance and fun behind closed doors are quite possible for the next few weeks.
GEMINI Romance is hot and heavy now as your houses of love, sex and relationship are activated by the Pluto T-Square. You may spice up your current relationship by introducing some long-held fantasies but know you can only suggest and see what happens. A plan for debt repayment or a loan needs some additional negotiation. Recognition at work is coming. It’s good to have a vision of what you want. You may be asked soon as Neptune sits at the top of your chart trining both Mercury and the North Node. CANCER Changes around your job or a job offer may send a cascade of changes through your home and family as the Pluto T-Square lights up your angular houses. This may be a fantastic offer, but don’t be afraid to ask for more, such as additional vacation time or a flexible work schedule. There is strong relationship energy around you. You or someone you know may be receiving a proposal of marriage or announce a pregnancy. There is luck around speculation and gambling, in case you’re planning a trip to Vegas. LEO There is the potential for a breakthrough on a health matter you’ve been dealing with for some time marked by the Pluto T-Square. You may get good results at the doctor’s or perhaps you’ve had an epiphany in how you take care of yourself. If you’re bored with your current job, it would help to brainstorm ideas with a friend. Your intuition is strong now. You may receive a message in a dream or see symbols and numbers in your daily life. The number 20 is most significant for you now.
VIRGO You may be approached about an investment or passive income source by a family member or close friend. You may be tempted as this is part of the Pluto T-Square for you. It’s good to review all the materials carefully. A love relationship can move to a more intimate level now. You may be moving in together or at least spending the night. Financially, things are good for you now in general. You may receive a raise in income or perhaps a financial windfall lands in your hands. LIBRA There is intense energy this month for you in regards to a matter concerning your family or a family member. If there has been an ongoing disagreement, you may be asked to choose a side as this Pluto T-Square lines up in your fourth house. You may be called on to offer some support or resources to someone close to you. Negotiations for a job or contract position go very well. You may receive recognition for a job you’ve performed as the North Node fills in a Grand Trine at the top of your chart. SCORPIO The truth about an important matter in your life is suddenly revealed to you. This may involve people you see on a daily basis or who live close to you. As the Pluto T-Square exposes a lie or falsehood, you have the ability to gather support for your case. You can see a remedy, but you prefer being satisfied knowing you were right about the whole matter. Money you’ve been waiting for is coming. You benefit greatly by taking a break this month. Get a massage, go to a spa or give yourself a mini-vacation. SAGITTARIUS Use caution when placing bets this month as the Pluto T-Square is lining up in your money houses. You may be tempted to throw your lot in with a friend who’s starting or running a business, or you may be thinking of taking a risk on an investment yourself. Careful calculations are needed. You’re quite psychic now; yet, your messages to a family member seem to be ignored. This month, it’s a good idea to change up
your exercise routines. Spice things up. Change gyms or look for some activities that are more fun to do.
CAPRICORN You are being too hard on yourself, especially now when others are looking your way and applauding. You may receive a tap on your shoulder for a better position at work as the Pluto T-Square aligns with your career house. Don’t sell yourself short. This is the change and excitement you need now. A love relationship gets closer. Those Capricorn natives looking for love may find a long-time friendship becomes romantic. If you don’t want pregnancy, it’s good to take precautions for the next few weeks. AQUARIUS Your brain is filled with ideas, what your friends may call “visionary thoughts.” You are inspired by the Water Trine, as well as the Pluto T-Square. Combat the boredom you’ve been feeling by meeting some new people at an event or conference. Travel is good for you now. A career opportunity you’ve been waiting for may come through in the next few weeks. You have the support if you want the job. Use caution around water, especially swimming or boating at night. PISCES If you’ve been thinking to do a business venture with a friend, it’s time to act as the Pluto T-Square lights up your money houses. Plant the seeds for future success through some effort over the next few weeks. Check social media for interesting and inspiring messages. A child or younger relative confides a secret, and now you have the opportunity with the Water Trine to have a much closer and more meaningful relationship with this individual. Luck, in general, will come to you easily this month. Donna Stellhorn is an astrologer, Feng Shui expert and author of 15 books. Her website is www.fengshuiform.com. You can follow her on Instagram @donnastellhorn or see her videos on YouTube at www.youtube.com/c/DonnaStellhorn. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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Midwest Pulse Calendar Thursday, October 3 BOOK LAUNCH PARTY! SAVING ANIMALS FROM OURSELVES with Andrew Harvey. 5:45-6:30 pm. Reception: 6:30-7:30 pm. Reading and Lecture, $10. Location: Equilibrium Energy + Education, 850 S. Wabash, Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60605. Registration is required, call 312-7861882. www.equilibrium-e3.com CONSCIOUS LIGHT Screening. Time: 7:30 pm. $7 at door. CONSCIOUS LIGHT is an award-winning film about the Divine Life and Revelation of AVATAR ADI DA SAMRAJ. “A powerful glimpse into one of the most profound spiritual teachers of the modern world.”— Stuart Gibson, Senior International Advisor, UNESCO. Location: Adidam Chicago Center Bookstore & Gallery, 3301 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, IL 60647. For more info call, 872-760-3150 or go to www.consciouslightfilm.com/screenings
Sundays, October 6 - 27 YINYASA YOGA CLASS: 6:30-7:30 pm. $15. Yinyasa is a hybrid of yang (active yoga) with yin (passive yoga). We will begin with 30 minutes of gentle yoga to build strength, warmth and flow with fundamental yoga postures while relieving stress and tension by connecting breath with mindful movements. We will finish with yin to create flexibility, mindfulness and softness to release the connective tissues, create space and integrity in the joints and remove blockages to internal energy flow. This class is suitable for all ages, abilities & physical conditions. This class is practiced in an unheated room and all levels are welcome. Location: Ivy Nicole Natural Remedies, 24140 W Lockport St, #100 Plainfield, IL 60544. Contact: 815-630-1151 or visit www.ivynicole naturalremedies.com
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My Near Death Experience Taught Me About Mind Loops, Neuroscience, and Happiness! Frank Auditorium in Evanston Hospital, 2650 Ridge Ave. (& Central), Evanston, IL 60201. Free covered parking. All are welcome! For more info: 847-251-5758 or http://www.chicagoiands.org
Sunday, October 13 FENG SHUI FOR WEIGHT LOSS – Webinar: 12 pm CST. $39. Five years ago, I finally Feng Shui-ed my kitchen and lost 45 pounds, and I kept it off. I did it without changing what I ate. In this webinar, I’ll tell you the secrets about how to eat, where to eat and how to store food in the kitchen so you can achieve your weight goals too. This webinar will be recorded. Location: Online Class. Contact: 949-940-5697 or Website: https://www. fengshuiform.com/teleclasses.htm
Monday, October 14 INTRODUCING SPIRITUAL REALIGNMENT©: 6:30 pm. FREE. The significance of Spiritual Realignment goes far beyond physical adjustment or any other forms of skeletal or energetic treatments. Presented by intuitive energy healer Daina Vaiciute. One person will be chosen to receive FREE realignment. Location: SunGates Center, 395 E.Dundee Rd, Ste.400, Wheeling, IL 60090. 847-345-0988 http://sungatescenter.com/ spiritual-realignment-free-presentation/
Tuesday, October 15 SACRED FREQUENCIES: Chakra Alignment Journey with Bob Macko. 6:30-7:30 pm. $20. Location: Equilibrium Energy + Education, 850 S. Wabash, Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60605. Registration is required, call 312-786-1882. www.equilibrium-e3.com
Saturday, October 12
Friday-Sunday, October 18-20
CHICAGO IANDS, support/study/resource forum for near-death, out-of-body, & spiritual experiences, losses. 2-5 pm. Donation: $20. Guest Speaker: Barbara Ireland - NDEr, Author, Speaker, Workshop Trainer & Coach, Singer/Musician, and Filmmaker. Her book is: How to Stop Negative Thoughts: What
HOLISTIC RETREAT FOR WOMEN-Breath, Yoga and Detox. Starting at 5 pm on Friday and ending on Sunday at 7 pm. Join us for a weekend retreat. It will be a great opportunity to release your physical and mental tensions in order to manifest your full potential among other women. In the weekend program:
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Group sessions of transformative breath, stretching yoga, nourishing food and more! This event will be held in Polish. Location: Menomonee Falls, WI. Contact Sylwia at 847-912-5969. Website https://www.face book.com/breathe.sylviadomagala/
Friday-Thursday, October 18-24 GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER PREMIERES MUSHROOM DOCUMENTARY FANTASTIC FUNGI. Tickets to each screening--unless stated otherwise—are from Friday, October 18 through Thursday, October 24. $12/general admission, $7/students, $6/Film Center members. Director Louie Schwartzberg appears for Q&A opening weekend. This revealing and marvelously mind-boggling documentary explores the hidden kingdom of mushrooms, the unique fruit of mycelium, an all-pervasive fungal network that not only lives beneath our feet but subversively dominates the earth. The 50s rockabilly hit, “There Was a Fungus Among Us,” unwittingly proclaimed the fact: mycelium is everywhere, whether seen or unseen. Experts including groundbreaking scientist/mycologist Paul Stamets and authors Michael Pollan, Eugenia Bone, and Andrew Weil reveal the ways in which mushrooms harbor a vast and barely explored potential for healing, renewing the environment, providing sustenance, and altering consciousness, but only if mankind is savvy enough to tap their enormous power. Awe-inspiring time-lapse macro cinematography by director Schwartzberg (WINGS OF LIFE) brings mushrooms and their underworld networks to astonishing vibrant life for a don’t-miss experience. FANTASTIC FUNGI, 2018, Louie Schwartzberg, USA, 81 min., narrated by Brie Larson, DCP digital. Director Louie Schwartzberg is scheduled to appear for audience discussion on Friday (8 pm only; tentative) and Saturday. Location: Gene Siskel Film Center of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 164 N. State St., Chicago, IL 60601. Website: http://www. siskelfilmcenter.org/fantastic-fungi
Sunday, October 20 GET A PLAN, A MOTIVE AND A LIFE DIRECTION! 12-2 pm. $20. Most spiritual
people have a point in their lives where they
hit a crossroads and know SOMEthing in their life must change. But sometimes they aren’t sure what to do or how to go about it. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by an end goal of where you’d like to be or to feel defeated before you begin if you have no idea where you’re going. In this session, we’re going to streamline things down to a few areas of focus to cut down on the scatter, fear, confusion and over-analyzing. By the end, you’ll have a plan, a motive and a direction!
Location: 219 W. 55th St., STE 105, Clarendon Hills, IL 60514 (Go through front door, turn right, down the stairs, office 105 on the left). Contact: 407-575-7547 or website: www.rebeccarockwood. com
Sunday-Saturday, October 20-26 SACRED MOVEMENT: A WOMEN’S RETREAT: Starting at $1,000. Join us for a week of movement, nature, and sisterhood. The week will provide you with time to nourish, ignite, and experience deep recuperation from daily life. The Goddess Garden in Cahuita, Costa Rica. www.JulieBrannen. com/connect
Tuesday, October 22 FASTER EFT WORKSHOP with Gina Orlando. 6-8 pm. $30. Location: Equilibrium Energy + Education, 850 S. Wabash, Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60605. Registration is required, call 312-786-1882. www.equilibrium-e3.com
Wednesday, October 23 LOVE YOUR WORK: FINDING YOUR TRUE PASSION 4:30-6 pm. Love your work by discovering what your true passions are. Location: New Lenox Public Library, 120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL 60451. Contact: 815-474-9580 or http://reneeperry-love-your-work.eventbrite.com
Friday, October 25 INSPIRATIONAL FILM: IMMORTAL HERO. Japan’s most influential and fastest growing spiritual movement reaches western shores with new inspirational film. Eastern new thought meets western new thought in Immortal Hero, a film based on the epiphany that has inspired Ryuho Okawa to lead
Happy Science, Japan’s budding spiritual movement that has been around for more than 30 years. Based on the true story of the near-death-experience that compelled Ryuho Okawa to devote his life to spreading the Truth he received from the spiritual realms and masters, Immortal Hero tells the dramatic, inspiring story of Makoto Mioya, a highly successful Japanese writer and publisher who miraculously heals himself from a fatal heart condition after a near-death visitation from powerful spiritual beings. As part of the recovery process, Makoto writes about his powerful ‘rebirth’ as an enlightened and transformed teacher. Although he faces challenges at home and abroad, Makoto promises to use the second chance at life he has been blessed with to make a positive difference for as many people as possible. He commits to ‘die for the truth’, a powerful covenant that defines the purity and intensity of his message of love, our mutual responsibility for one another, and world peace. For more information, theaters and showtimes, please visit: www. immortal-hero.com
tioners, products & amazing artisans - try a sample session; find crystals, jewelry, essential oils, spa products, gifts, and art. Intensive workshops on the hour, included with admission! Free for military, emergency response personnel & children under 18. Chicago Marriott Naperville, 1801 N. Naper Blvd, Naperville, IL 60563. www.illuminatefestivals.com/chicago
Sunday, October 27
Saturday, November 16
FALL IN LOVE WITH YOURSELF WORKSHOP with Judith Acosta: 10 am – 6 pm. $250. The most important relationship you will ever have in your life is the relationship with yourself. If you want to discover why it is so important to Love yourself unconditionally, register now for the workshop! Location: The Journey’s Path Metaphysical Wellness Center, 946 North Neltnor Blvd, Ste 214, West Chicago, IL 60185. Contact: 630-4730377 or www.thejourneyspath.com
Sunday, December 8
SPIRIT FAIR: 11 am -5 pm. All readings today are $30 from 15 of the best readers in Southeastern Wisconsin. Location: New Berlin Ale House, South Hall, 16000 W. Cleveland Ave, New Berlin, WI 53151. See Events page for more information: www. spiritualenlightenment.me
Sunday, November 3 ILLUMINATE CHICAGO MIND-BODYSPIRIT-ARTS FESTIVAL: 11 am - 6 pm. $6 at the door or save $1 by purchasing online. The finest local holistic wellness practi-
Monday, November 11 80th COMMEMOTATIVE BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION HONORING AVATAR ADI DA SAMRAJ. Time: 2-4:30 pm. $15 at door. This year marks the 80th birthday anniversary of Avatar Adi Da Samraj - Spiritual Master extraordinaire, religious philosopher, literary and visual artist, wisdom-advocate for world peace. Celebration includes rare videos of Adi Da Samraj, chanting, stories of his life and work, guided meditation, discussion, and refreshments. Location: Adidam Chicago Center 3301 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago, IL 60647. Call 872-760-3150 for more information.
RENEW CONFERENCE: 9-5 CST. Get help with your journey from pain to peace at this healing and grief conference. Leading grief and trauma practitioners, best-selling authors, and spiritual mentors share their expertise and help you to live a more purposeful loving life. Chicago Marriott Naperville, 1801 N. Naper Blvd, Naperville, IL 60563. Contact: 815-671-4950 or www.Renew Conference.Life
ILLUMINATE BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL MIND-BODY-SPIRIT-ARTS FESTIVAL: 11 am – 6 pm. $6 at the door or save $1 by purchasing online. The finest local holistic wellness practitioners, products & amazing artisans - try a sample session; find crystals, jewelry, essential oils, spa products, gifts, and art. Intensive workshops on the hour, included with admission! Free for military, emergency response personnel & children under 18. Bloomington-Normal Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, 201 Broadway Ave., Normal, IL 61761. Visit: www.illuminate festivals.com/bloomington-normal
AT T E N T I O N A D V E R T I S E R S Did you know that the Midwest Pulse Calendar section is one of the most read parts of Conscious Community? The Midwest Pulse Calendar listings are $1.00 per word with a 30 word minimum. Copy is due by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Copy submitted after the deadline is not guaranteed to be included in the next issue. Check or credit card information must accompany calendar listings.
For questions, please call: 847–966–1110 or email: Kasia@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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RAISING KINDER CHILDREN by Robyn Spizman We can all raise kinder children and teach kindness, one child at a time. We give birth to kids and to kindness alike. Together we create the next generation of humankind and humans being kind. Raising kinder children is something all parents would agree is a meaningful goal. When asked what we want for our children, we often say we want our kids to be happy. What if all parents also wanted their children to be happy and kind? Ah, the benefits of “everyday” kind kids. I believe that happiness naturally would follow. 24
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Kind kids are more at ease socially and learn lifelong positive people-pleasing skills. All parents want their child to be kind-natured, but the moment another child is “not nice” to theirs, it can feel disheartening. The power of kindness begins at a very early age, and the benefits are staggering. Children who possess good-hearted tendencies often exhibit leadership qualities and attract more friends at an early age. What’s wonderful about kindness is that it is a skill that can be learned. As
an art teacher, I taught creativity and inspired children to understand an array of materials, techniques, and aesthetic ideas that produced endless beautiful possibilities. All they had to do was add their imaginations. Teaching kids to be kind is like developing the proficiency to create a priceless work of art. Instead of being the coolest kid in the room, how about being the kindest? Once a child understands the importance of their actions, good deeds, and the joy of helping others, kindness becomes fun and is highly contagious.
DEFINING KINDNESS FOR KIDS Teaching a child to “care a whole lot” takes time. How we go about instilling that value is a lifelong lesson. Children practice what they are taught, both in principle and by the actions seen every day that require positive reinforcement. Kindness starts at home. Probably every parent on the planet has said, “Be nice,” “Do the right thing,” “What’s the magic word?” and “Nice hands, please.” Start a kindness culture in your home. It’s easy to do, and small acts of kindness and love shared out loud at home translate into large benefits.
Be proud out loud. Think of ways to reinforce kindness by sharing how proud you are of the little things, words like “Kindness alert...wow, you are so sweet to help me clean up the table.” Or, “Here comes Mr. Mighty Manners, my superkid for thinking of others! You are so loving to make a get well soon card for your sister.” What do you do to make it a part of your family values, family dinners, and everyday rituals? Assign your child (age two and a half to three is old enough) to be in charge of the “I love you” hugs. Our family called these “happy hugs” because we’d do a group hug, putting our daughter in the middle. When you let your kids know you’re proud of them out loud just for being themselves, it goes a long way, and the hugs multiply.
how “Discuss your child’s
actions affect other people, to build mindfulness of others and show empathy. ”
When I was little, my grandmother would say, “Pretty is as pretty does.” I understood that to mean that kindness is a beautiful trait. Since children understand kindness at an early age by the examples they see, beginning with their parents and other individuals around them, consider these attributes of kindness. A timely example illustrates this idea. When my grandchildren spend the night and I’m in charge of making their lunches, I add a little “I love you” note for them to discover. My granddaughter Dani reminded me to add the note last time she stayed over to ensure I wouldn’t forget it. Little things mean a lot to children, and they are paying attention to everything you do or say. Be mindful of your own actions. You are your child’s best role model. Children repeat what they see and learn at home. What kind actions do you display to others daily? Are you helpful? Are you pleasant to be around? Do you look for ways to make life easier for others? Invite your children to give you a thumbs-up when you do something kind. Everyone can be in charge of kindness, if you make it a priority.
View kindness as being helpful. Kindness is being nice, but it’s also defined as helping others. Talk with your children about how they can give someone a hand and make a difference. Kids can be helpful in endless ways. Give a big hand for your kids’ helping hands. 2. Celebrate kindness now. When you see someone being kind, thank them. When your children are thoughtful and caring and demonstrate kind behaviors, give them a thumbs-up, a high five, or a big hug. Robyn Spizman is the author of Loving Out Loud. She is an award-winning, New York Times bestselling author and popular keynote speaker who has appeared in the media for over three decades, including NBC’s Today show more than 30 times. She lives in Atlanta. Visit her online at http://www.robynspizman.com. Excerpted from the book Loving Out Loud. Copyright ©2019 by Robyn Spizman.
Encourage an understanding of how your child affects others. Discuss how your child’s actions affect other people, to build mindfulness of others and show empathy. If your child decides not to go to someone’s birthday party for no valid reason, point out how this makes the birthday person feel. Everyone’s feelings matter. Or if your child is not chosen for a part in the play, teach them to recognize that it was someone else’s turn, to be happy for the other person, and to keep trying. Create an awareness of how we all affect each other and we can learn to celebrate others’ accomplishments.
THREE LOL THINGS YOU CAN DO TODAY TO RAISE KIND KIDS 1. Role-model kindness at home. Think of how you speak to your children and family. Kids will model what they see and hear. Be the kindest role model you can be, and teach your children kindness at a very young age. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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THE ART OF LETTING GO by Joyce and Barry Vissell
Endings may not be so easy, but they are not optional in this life. There comes a time when a certain activity must be let go. Or a time when a relationship truly needs to end or, at least, change form. The art is knowing when this time comes and paying close attention to your true inner feelings, rather than your ego, your pride, or the mental image of yourself. A few weeks ago, Joyce and I, our daughter, Rami, her eight-year-old son, Skye, and our son, John-Nuri, spent four days rafting the Rogue River in southern Oregon. There is one rapid, Rainie Falls, that is a true class-five rapid. There is an option that is a bit easier, a man-made fish ladder that 26
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takes you around the more difficult falls. This is the way I usually go when alone on the trip with Joyce. Rami, however, is often up for the challenge of running the main falls. On the previous year’s trip, with Rami at the oars in the back of the raft and JohnNuri and I paddling in the front, I got ejected from the raft and had to swim through the turbulence to the shore. It wasn’t fun! Then we walked back upriver and took a second raft down the falls. This time, when we took the final plunge, I stopped paddling and held on to the raft, which kept me in the boat. This year, I felt a hesitation when Rami announced, after scouting the rapid,
that she would like to try the main falls once again. I pushed past any trepidation and ignored Joyce’s premonition. I agreed to participate in this adventure once more. We hiked upriver to our three rafts and got settled into the one empty boat. In case we flipped over, we didn’t want the extra weight of gear, which would have to be removed underwater before we could flip the raft right side up. Before leaving shore, we asked the angels to watch over us and grant us safe passage. This is an important ritual that we do before every challenging rapid—or challenging event in our lives. Then we shoved off and slowly approached the main falls, the deep booming roar of water flowing at 1,600
cubic feet per second and the spray of mist rising into the air. Rami called for John-Nuri and me to paddle hard to build up momentum, and then we took the plunge. As we fell toward the turbulent pool, I stopped paddling and grabbed hold of a line on the raft to keep me in the boat. We hit the water like a spear, diving deeply straight in. Even underwater, with tremendous hydraulic forces pushing me around like I was in a giant washing machine, I clung to the raft.
“
happy to sneak down the fish ladder. I’m no longer motivated by adrenaline. Other endings are not so clear or easy. Jogging was not so easy to let go. I used to love to jog for exercise, but my knees eventually let me know that they were unhappy with this form of exercise. With my knee replacement, I can hike to my heart’s content but not jog. Then there’s non-physical letting go. Friendships, for example. Joyce and I both get attached to our friends. Of
There comes a time when a certain activity must be let go. Or a time when a relationship truly needs to end or, at least, change form. The art is knowing when this time comes and paying close attention to your true inner feelings, rather than your ego, your pride, or the mental image of yourself.
”
Then we popped out of the river backward. With the stalled momentum, we were at the mercy of the roiling mass of turbulence which launched the raft onto its side, threatening to flip it over. It was like riding a bucking bronco that felt like it was jumping up into the air and would momentarily land on its back, which would not be healthy for the rider. I finally let go, entered the water and got sucked down into the maelstrom. I have learned not to panic in these situations. That only depletes your oxygen more quickly. I held my breath, took some strokes toward the surface which seemed to do no good, and waited for the river to release me and for my life jacket to do its job. After an eternity, perhaps 10-15 seconds, my head broke the surface and I gulped precious air. And yes, this is also “show and tell.” Someone actually took a two and a half minute video in slow motion of the whole fiasco, which you can view at https://youtu.be/Epl8RhHuefc. You can see Rami searching for me while I was underwater. Have I learned my lesson? Yes, I’m officially finished with running the main Rainie Falls. I have nothing more to prove. It is a clear ending for me. I’m
course, it’s more than attachment; it’s love. So, when things get hard, or feelings get hurt, we naturally want to work it out as fast as we can, to get back to love. This is what we do in our own relationship. But it doesn’t always work with other people. Not everybody wants to do the hard work of relationship. We still call them friends but have had to patiently wait for them to be ready to come to the table and work things out. Some have not, even after many years. It’s definitely sad and painful for us. Separation and divorce can be quite difficult. It can feel like the end of a dream. Joyce and I are committed to helping couples do everything they can to prevent this ending. Often, relationships can be saved by learning new tools. But still, relationship endings may be necessary. There are three big reasons to end a relationship: abuse, whether physical or emotional; addiction that is not being addressed; and one or both partners not willing to take responsibility for their part of the equation, or not willing to get the help that is needed. For more on taking responsibility, read this article: https:// sharedheart.org/the-shiny-pen-takingresponsibility-in-relationship/
We love our work with groups, our workshops and retreats. We used to travel several weekends a month by car or plane. It’s no longer easy for us to do this. We’ve had to let go of much of the travel. On the plus side, we are doing more and more at our own home and center, which is very gratifying. Is there something in your life that no longer serves you? Is there an ending needed? Have the courage to admit the truth – and then act. By the way, I hope to raft rivers for many more years. They just might have to get easier and easier. Joyce and Barry Vissell, a nurse/ therapist and psychiatrist couple since 1964, are counselors near Santa Cruz, CA, who are widely regarded as among the world’s top experts on conscious relationship and personal growth. They are the authors of eight books, including two recent books, To Really Love a Woman and To Really Love a Man. Visit SharedHeart.org for their free monthly e-heart letter, their updated schedule, and inspiring past articles on many topics about relationship and living from the heart.
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WHAT IS HYPNOSIS? by Stephanie Jarmuth
Most have heard of or have seen hypnosis in the form of a comedy or entertainment stage show, where the hypnotist instructs the volunteer to quack like a duck or fall asleep instantly. Few have heard of hypnosis being utilized in a therapeutic setting, and if they have, it typically ends at the knowledge that hypnosis can be successfully used for smoking cessation or weight loss. Hypnosis, in a therapeutic setting, can help almost anyone with almost anything. As a hypnotist, I have asked many people what they think hypnosis is and am still shocked to hear the common misconceptions so prevalent. The most common responses I hear are that hypnosis is “mind control,” or that it “can 28
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make you do things against your will.” In a fully alert and conscious state, as well as in a trance-like, hypnotic state, you cannot be made to do anything against your will or that doesn’t align with your morals. Hypnotists do not have any special powers. Before I go into the science, beauty, and benefits of hypnosis, let me just debunk what you may be thinking, “If hypnosis is not mind control, explain how the stage hypnotists can ‘make’ someone think they are and then act like a duck!” Simply put, hypnosis’s success relies heavily on belief, desire and acceptance. The belief that the hypnosis is going to work, the desire for the suggestion and the acceptance
of the suggestion. In a stage show, the one on stage is a volunteer, meaning they have the desire to be a part of the show and therefore believe that they will be hypnotized, and therefore, accept the suggestion. When we talk about hypnosis, we have to talk about the subconscious. Your subconscious is a part of your mind, not a part with a specific location in the brain, with a specific job. After a conscious decision is made, the subconscious kicks in and you operate from your stored habit or behavior. This is why while you are driving you can daydream and then forget part of your drive because your subconscious has taken over, you are in autopilot and do not
need to use your conscious mind—your intellect—to drive. The same goes for beliefs, if you have a stored belief that you are a failure, your subconscious mind will operate from that belief. If you have a core belief that you will succeed at anything, your subconscious mind will operate from that. In your everyday normal waking state, your conscious mind acts as a barrier or protector for your subconscious. If you have a belief that healthy grass is green, and someone comes to tell you that grass is purple, your conscious mind and its reasoning ability and intellect can say “Nope, not adopting that belief; that is false.” And so, your belief remains that healthy grass is green. During hypnosis, just like when you go to sleep, the conscious mind is switched off and that critical factor of the thinking process is dulled. Therefore, the hypnotist can speak and suggest positive change directly to your subconscious mind for you to adopt. With that being said, it may be easier now for you to see how hypnosis can positively affect so many different areas of your mind and life and beneficially change those same areas. Since hypnosis can access, change and speak directly to the part that hosts your beliefs, habits, emotions, tendencies, etc., you can make some very quick, lasting and beneficial alterations to your negative or limiting beliefs, bad or unhealthy habits, memories that have strong emotional attachments to them, as well as self-sabotagi ng behaviors. When someone comes to my office with a core belief that they are not confident, we do two things: we address the first memories in which they felt that way and we suggest to the subconscious mind while the client is in hypnosis that they are indeed confident. How could it be so simple? Remember that formula the stage hypnotist depends upon belief, desire and acceptance. This client has the belief that hypnosis will create the life-altering change they seek and has the desire to no longer lack confidence. Therefore, they are now in the perfect state of mind to accept the direct suggestion.
When doesn’t hypnosis work? When one of the parts of the formula is missing. If you do not believe it will work, it will not. As the saying goes “Whether you believe you can or you cannot, you’re right.” If you do not desire the change you are coming to hypnosis for, then the suggestion given during hypnosis will not stick. Your mind and that suggestion to, for example, lose weight will not connect because your mind does not desire to. Similarly, if a man or women comes to me to stop smoking, if they are only coming because their spouse is pestering them, they are not coming because they desire to not smoke. In the first session, you discuss with your hypnotist exactly what it is you want from the experience. The hypnotist can then choose the techniques that will work for you and come up with a one to three session plan to get you to where you want to be. At times, it can take more than one session because there may be a past influence, trauma or conditioning that must be worked out before the positive suggestion for the future can successfully be given. As far as what hypnosis feels like, hypnosis leaves one feeling utterly and completely relaxed. In fact, many clients tell me it is the most relaxed they have ever felt. Being hypnotized is very similar to guided meditation; you sit or lay back and listen to the hypnotist’s voice. At times your mind may wander, but more often than not, you will hear everything being said and you will always have full control over yourself and your actions. Hypnosis gains more and more credibility each year. Famous sports teams use it to increase performance, public speakers use it to speak confidently, actors and actresses use it to enhance their focus when getting into character. Each year, more medical and scientific studies are published as to the benefits of hypnosis to reduce and manage pain in chronic pain sufferers, relieve, reduce, or conquer depression and anxiety, and more. Hypnosis relaxes the mind, relaxes the body, and in turn allows the subconscious to become susceptible to desired suggestion.
You do not need to have anxiety, smoke, be overweight, have a traumatizing memory, or have self-sabotaging behavior to benefit from hypnosis. Hypnosis is fabulous for things such as increased performance, maintaining a healthy and forward-thinking mindset, self-development, etc. You do not need to take something negative away to add betterment. Remember, the subconscious runs your life for you 90% of the time, maintaining a healthy, optimistic subconscious will certainly aid or boost your overall success internally and externally. Fill your subconscious with positivity and specific goals so that when you are on autopilot you operate from a positive place and your goals are naturally being accomplished. Why is it so important to maintain a healthy mind? Because everything is derived from the mind! The invention of the chair was once just a thought. That person only nailed that presentation because of the core belief that they would. A fit and healthy person goes to the gym five times per week because of the adopted habit. Whether or not you are open to life and its opportunities are dependent on your comfortability with and mindset around change, your willingness to expand your comfort zone and optimism. Do you want to experience change with ease, experience what it is like to not have that limiting belief or traumatizing memory, or better yourself in a natural and empowering way? Even if you are still on the fence, reach out to a hypnotist, set up a free consultation and ask as many questions as you can. This tool helped me change my life to the extent that I became a nationally certified hypnotist. I now can create such changes in people’s lives. Stephanie Jarmuth, owner of ReRoot Hypnosis, is a Nationally Certified Hypnotist determined to change people’s views on hypnosis from “mind control” to “having control of the mind.” She offers life changing in person sessions and custom recordings. Call 630-675-0794 or visit www.ReRootHypnosis.com. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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interventions could prevent some cancers altogether. While an exact figure is unknown, it’s estimated that lifestyle choices are responsible for up to 70% of cancer diagnoses. The more you know, the more you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Breast cancer has very likely touched you or someone you know and love. My loved ones have been touched by breast cancer and other cancers. All of the mother figures in my life have been stricken with cancer and only my mother-in-law has survived it. Nutrition was never part of the discussion or treatment plan from the medical team of my loved ones. For example, research has shown that women who eat a lot of grilled, barbecued or smoked meats and very few fruits and vegetables have a higher risk of breast cancer compared to women who don’t eat a lot of grilled meats. Women who consume the most orange vegetables, which are rich in carotenoids, lower their risk of breast cancer by 19%.
[ H E A LT H Y E AT I N G ]
ORANGE IS THE NEW PINK
A LINK TO CANCER PREVENTION by Betsy Bruns October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Nearly 1 in 8 women in the U.S. (roughly 12%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. Approximately 268,600 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S in 2019, along with 62,930 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer. Since 1991, the Breast Cancer Awareness campaign and its marquee ribbon have us “thinking pink” instead 30
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of the traditional orange of the season. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, many people and businesses display pink ribbons in the fight against breast cancer. While pink may have become symbolic color of breast cancer, orange is the color that can actually help prevent this disease. While medical advances in breast cancer treatment are extending the lives of hundreds of thousands, lifestyle
Autumn is here and many carotenoidrich vegetables are in season. Now is the time to stock your grocery cart with orange foods and visit farmers’ markets to load up on locally grown cancerfighting foods like pumpkin, squash, and sweet potatoes. Make sure that even if you’re wearing pink, you’re still eating orange!
MANGO-TURMERIC CANCERFIGHTING SMOOTHIE Makes 1 serving
Ingredients
This smoothie is a prescription in a glass. Energizing and packed with cancer-fighting carotenoids and immuneboosting spices. There is no need to be concerned about the natural sugars in fruit. Fruit and the abundant antioxidants they bring lower cancer risk, whereas processed and refined sugars are known to feed cancer.
1 tablespoon mild curry powder
Ingredients
1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree (or 1½ cups steamed fresh pumpkin)
1 cup plant-based milk of choice 1 cup fresh or frozen mango 1 fresh or frozen banana 1 Medjool date ½ teaspoon turmeric powder ½ teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon ginger 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed Add all ingredients to a blender and process until smooth. If mango and banana are fresh, not frozen, add ice cubes to desired consistency.
2 tablespoons water 1 cup finely chopped onion 1 teaspoon ground coriander ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon garam masala 1 teaspoon sea salt 1½ cups green or brown canned lentils rinsed and drained (or cooked from scratch)
2¾ cups water 2 cups chopped apples 1½ tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice In a large pot, combine two tablespoons of water, onion, curry powder, coriander, cinnamon, garam masala and salt. Cover and cook over medium to medium-high heat, stirring once, for four to five minutes, until onion starts to soften. If the onion sticks, add another splash of water. Add lentils and stir for a few minutes, then add the pumpkin and water. Increase the heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, add the apples, cover, and simmer for 45 to 50
minutes (or longer) until the lentils are tender and the water is absorbed. If the curry is too liquid for your taste, you can reduce it (uncovered) for another 15 minutes or so. Add the lemon juice, stir to incorporate and serve. If you’d like some heat, add 1/4 teaspoon or more crushed red pepper flakes or a spicier curry powder along with the other spices when sautéing the onions. Betsy Bruns is a plant-based health coach, “Food for Life” instructor with the “Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM)” and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) tapping practitioner. She lost her beloved French bulldog Van Gogh this month and is relying on the same tools she shares with clients during this time of healing. In her experience, eating a whole-food, plant-based (WFPB) diet and establishing a daily practice of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) tapping are good medicine for heart, mind and body. Visit her at Vegsetter.com. Mango-Turmeric Cancer-Fighting Smoothie recipe and photo by Betsy Bruns Lentil-Pumpkin Curry recipe and photo courtesy of Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM)
LENTIL-PUMPKIN CURRY Makes 5 Servings A flavorful dish that is simple to prepare and packed with protein, fiber and nutrients. Plant-based eating offers so much variety. It’s often reported that food becomes more enjoyable because it is an invitation to explore new ways of preparing meals that are filling and exciting to the palate while promoting good health. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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BUSINESS Directory
BOOK AND METAPHYSICAL STORES STYX AND STONZ, 1764 W. Algonquin Rd., Hoffman Estates, IL 60192. www.styxstonz.com 847-358-9975.
BUSINESS SERVICES MARMEL ACCOUNTING, LLC, accounting with heart provides QuickBooks accounting, tax research and business consulting for small businesses.100% of every invoice you pay is first loaned out on kiva.org as a microloan to people in developing countries. Location: Chicago, IL. Phone: 773-456-9729, www.marmelaccounting.com.
COMMUNITY SPEAKEASY SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY - A progressive spiritual community of openminded individuals sharing a message of love and engaging in conversations that promote well-being and personal growth. We honor all paths to unity and focus on the teachings of A Course in Miracles. We meet every Sunday from 10:30-11:30. Location: Immanuel Hall, 302 South Grant Street, Hinsdale, IL 60521. Contact: www.SpeakEasySpiritualCommunity.com or 708-497-Yogi (9644).
ENERGY HEALING & MEDICINE REV. LINDSAY BATES. Usui/Holy Fire® III Reiki Master, Offering private sessions, Distant Reiki, animal Reiki, and classes for all levels. We focus on life issues, including stress management, fertility, oncology. Location: 1211 Pershing Ave, Wheaton, IL 60189. Contact: www.lifewaysreiki.org or 630-464-1668. 32
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SUSAN OFFERS GROUP MEDITATIONS with crystal singing bowls and Peruvian whistles. Contact for upcoming events. Also, individual sessions and workshops with the OXOY. Northwest Suburbs. Dundee. Contact Website: www.multiDtherapies. com www.theOXOY.com Email: info@multiD therapies.com info@theOXOY,com Phone: 224-293-2373 CAROL SWANSON LLC. Medical Intuitive & Wellness Consultant, specializing in the release of chronic health issues. Intuitive Health Analysis and Treatment Protocol. Deep Meridian Clearing releases the energetic blockages/trauma supporting your illness. Clients worldwide. Serving Humans and their companion animals. Email: carol.swanson@att.net or visit www.carol-swanson.com or 608-359-4720.
FREELANCE SERVICES NEED A PROFESSIONAL WRITER? Branding, website content, product and service descriptions, brochures, editorial features, events marketing. Email Bernadette at bdoran@industrialstrengthsoul.com.
HOLISTIC HEALTH HEMAVEDA AYURVEDIC HEALING for a healthier and happy life. Swati Mhaske is a Certified Ayurveda Doctor and Clinical researcher and an Herbalist. Swati specializes in Gut health, Female health and nutrition, autoimmune disorders, allergies, anti-aging, joint health, skin disorders and hormonal imbalances. Location: Yoga Seva Studio, 407 E Terra Cotta Ave, Crystal Lake, IL 60014. Contact: www.hemaveda.com, Email: dr. swati.mhaske@gmail.com or 224-829-8185.
HYPNOSIS REROOT HYPNOSIS - “Stephanie is a Nationally Certified Hypnotist specializing in coaching people to higher consciousness, releasing limitations, and guiding people towards personal development and empowerment. She offers in person sessions in the Logan Square area, along with virtual sessions. Packages range from 3-12 sessions and are custom tailored to each person to guarantee success.” Website: www.ReRootHypnosis.com, 630-675-0794.
LIFE COACH HAPPINESS IS CHOICE, LLC- a Relationship & Life coaching boutique that provides strategies and solutions for life, dating and finding love. Location: Chicago, IL. Contact: Website: www.happinessischoice.com or 312-846-0061. JULITA MACHALSKI. Intuitive Coach + EFT Practitioner - Helping you to release emotional pain and supporting you in the process of personal transformation. Chicago area/worldwide via Skype or in person. Both English & Polish. julita.life@ gmail.com or http://www.julita.life. 773-844-0053.
PAST LIFE REGRESSION SUSAN WISEHART, LMFT, 25 years licensed therapist. Past/Between Lives regressions. Trained by Brian Weiss and Michael Newton. Des Plaines/ Mundelein. Contact: 847-438-7878 or www.susanwisehart.com
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES OFFICIATE: WEDDINGS & OTHER TRANSITIONAL EVENTS Ordained non-denominational minister officiates at transitional events (weddings, baptisms, funerals, birth rites, etc.). For further information on personally-tailored, magical and intimate experiences, contact Theresa Puskar. www.theresapuskar.com, 630-272-1805.
PSYCHICS DEETTE RANAE IS A CERTIFIED PSYCHIC MEDIUM through LWISSD. Private readings, parties, and galleries. Also offering classes on psychic/ medium development and mentorships. Contact: Http://www.deetteranaepsychicmedium.weebly. com or 608-352-5944. PSYCHIC OF CHICAGO solves all problems! 5 Generation Psychic specializes in re-uniting loved ones, Palm, Tarot, Psychic Readings Chakra and Aura Cleansing. Open Daily 8 am -11 pm. Readings in person or on a phone. Walk-In! Free Parking. Locations: 7936 W Ogden Ave. Lyons, IL 60534. 708-447-3152, 6429 W Irving Park Rd. Chicago, IL 60634. 773-664-3620. SOUL ADVISOR LLC TRICIA RUITER was born with these gifts from God. I can connect you with anyone who has passed - and animals. Location: Plainfield, IL. Phone: 815-529-1887. Website: www.thesouladvisor.com
Arlington Club Commons, 9 Huntington Lane, Wheeling, IL 60090. Contact: 224-676-1125, or www.wildraspberry.store.
SCHOOLS AND LEARNING CENTERS INFINITY FOUNDATION is the Chicago area’s leading holistic education center. Infinity offers Courses For Life,® providing you with experiential courses in personal, professional, and spiritual growth to enhance your life. Contact 24 hours a day: http:// infinityfoundation.org or 847-831-8828.
SPIRITUAL COUNSELING REBECCA ROCKWOOD SPIRITUAL COUNSELING FOR SPIRITUAL PEOPLE! Specializing in spiritual disconnection, lost life direction, energy overwhelm, spiritual depression, resonation changes, advanced spiritual evolution. Your future doesn’t have to be a replay of your past! 219 W. 55th St., Suite 105, Clarendon Hills, IL 60514, 407-575-7547, www.rebeccarockwood.com
TAROT SUSAN BRADY. Experience the wisdom of the Tarot in the relaxed atmosphere of your own home by phone or email. Additionally, I am available for in person readings at Healing Arts Metaphysical Center in Batavia, and The Journey’s Path in West Chicago. Bring your questions and leave with answers. Website: www.thetarottruth. com. I’ll be happy to schedule your appointment with me by phone at 630-209-7678.
FOR RENT
WEIGHT CONTROL
HOLISTIC OFFICE BUILDING SPACE available in prime St. Charles location. Ample parking, excellent energy, beautiful building with many options. Suites available for holistic medical, dental and energy practices. Brannick Clinic of Natural Medicine. Contact: 630-444-0066.
WEIGHT OUT OF CONTROL? MEDICAL HYPNOTISM can help you renegotiate your relationship to food. Backed by outcomes research and a long history of success. Visit us at www.CSGiles.org for more information or call 630-668-1141.
RETAIL STORE
CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY ADVERTISERS
WILD RASPBERRY RESALE SHOP with gently used designer label clothing, jewelry, books, music, coffee bar, mini-workshops. Come and taste the Wild Raspberry experience! Location:
Tap into an open and aware community by advertising your events, services, products in the Conscious Community Magazine Calendar and Business Directory listings. Display ads are due by the 10th of every month. Call Conscious
Community Magazine or see website for advertising information. Distributed in Illinois and Wisconsin. Reach your potential with Conscious Community Magazine! Please visit: www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com or call 847-966-1110.
HELP WANTED
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! ARE YOU A MOVER AND A SHAKER? Are you an organized self-starter? Do you have a desire to help out, but you are not sure where your skills will be best suited? The Conscious Community family is looking for assistance in the following areas: Administration, Event Scheduling, Event Sponsorship, National Calendar Coordinator, IT Expertise or Conference Coordinator. Whether you can give one hour per month or 10 hours per month, we would love to have you join our team. Please call 847-966-1110 or email Kasia at: Kasia@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com
BUSINESS Directory
The Business Classified Directory provides listings of a wide variety of practitioners, products and services available to our readers. Business listings are $1.00 per word with a 25 word minimum. Display ads are due by the 10th of every month. Copy may be submitted by email or regular mail. Check or credit card information must accompany your insertion unless you are submitting it by email. In that case, please call with your credit card information to finalize your listing.
Please call: 847–966–1110 or send your listings to: Kasia@ ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com by the 10th of the month prior to publication. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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COSMIC DAILY WEATHER October 2019 by Bernadette Evans
Overview The air is a touch cooler and the leaves are changing color as the seasons shift. Fall is upon us. The kids are still excited as school has only been in session for a month. This month, you may be thinking of taking a class yourself. Look at what’s available in your area and see what speaks to you. It’s also time to have fun and dress up in your favorite costume as it’s Hallowe’en! Yay…it’s so much fun to see the little trick or treaters! Hopefully, the weather cooperates, and it’ll be a lovely night for them. Libra season is now in full swing. It’s all about finding balance and harmony while being more sociable and getting along with others. The other side of Libra is Aries (Aries energy is more about being a leader, sometimes acting hasty and flying solo), so be aware of both energies and try to find the balance between them. It can feel like you’re walking on the high-wire. Sometimes you might lose your balance as you lean to one side, then you over-correct and lean to the other side. Do your best; that’s all you can you do. Now, Mercury goes retrograde on Oct. 31, but don’t panic! It’s a time to revisit and reassess what’s working and what’s not working. Sometimes communications get lost or misconstrued, so pay extra attention to what you’re saying and double-check with others to make sure you understand exactly what they’re saying. Mercury is in Scorpio during this retrograde period, so communications could get heated or steamy. The Moon takes about 28 days to complete its orbit through the 12 signs, staying approximately two and a half days in each sign. When we say the Moon is Void of Course (VoC), it means the Moon makes no more major aspects to other planets before it leaves the sign its in. At these times, it can be difficult to get focused and accomplish a task. You may want to relax, meditate or do something where your focus is turned inward. Don’t try to get a new project off the ground when the Moon is Void. If you want to find out more about the Void of Course Moon, check out moontracks.com. The times below are listed in Central Daylight Time.
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Tuesday, October 1 When Venus squares Pluto the volume dial on your desire and intensity are cranked up to maximum. You feel everything, which can be fine for a time, but also exhausting. You could be asking yourself what you’re searching for. Is it the finer things in life, chemistry, a deep connection or all of them? Pay attention to whatever is tugging at you. Moon is in Scorpio.
Wednesday, October 2 There’s the opportunity for learning something new or expanding on what you already know with the Moon in Sagittarius. You enjoy sharing your knowledge with others. You’re open, generous and positive and want the freedom to come and go as you please. Moon VoC at 4:46 a.m. until 6:44 a.m. when it enters the sign of Sagittarius.
Thursday, October 3 Mercury moves into the sign of Scorpio at 3:14 a.m. and will be there for an extended visit because of the Mercury retrograde, approximately nine weeks. You may have unbelievable insights and can get to the heart of the matter. You could also have a wicked sharp tongue that could be deadly and get you into hot water. Mars enters the sign of Libra at 11:22 p.m. and will be there for approximately six weeks. You do your
best to get along with others, being charming, sociable and agreeable for the most part, but when you feel there is an injustice, you have no problem fighting for what you believe in. Pluto stations Direct at 1:39 a.m.
friends. There’s the chance of overdoing it with food or alcohol. Emotions may range from being super happy to melancholy; that is the energy of water. Moon enters the sign of Pisces at 11:05 a.m.
could lead to material rewards. Your practicality and thoroughness have brought you the recognition and the finances you’ve been seeking. Moon enters the sign of Taurus at 11:24 a.m.
Friday, October 4
Thursday, October 10
Tuesday, October 15
You could be troubleshooting a problem when the Moon squares Mars. Don’t rush in too quickly to resolve it. Examine all the options before you make any decisions. You’ll be happier with the result if you think it through carefully. Moon VoC at 2:34 a.m. until 12:43 p.m. when it enters the sign of Capricorn.
Communicating your thoughts and feelings is a little easier to do when the Moon trines Mercury. You also may be called on to provide a shoulder to cry on, or to show support to a friend by being there and listening. Pay attention to your hunches.
It’s a great day for tapping into your creativity as ideas bubble up to the surface with the Mercury-Neptune trine. Write down your thoughts, as they may just evaporate into thin air tomorrow. You intuitively know what to say to make others feel better when they reveal their feelings. Don’t be afraid to open up and share your feelings too.
Saturday, October 5 The Moon-Sun square may bring some tension to the surface which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Once you have awareness about a problem, you can do something to resolve it. Examine the situation and take the necessary steps to move forward; by facing your shadow you’re able to heal.
Sunday, October 6
Friday, October 11 The Moon is Void of Course for just about the whole day, so hold off on making any major decisions if possible. If you need to, spend some time researching and going over your plans so you have a good idea of what’s ahead of you. Then you can relax and let it go until tomorrow. Trust that you have this and go have fun tonight. Moon VoC 4:55 a.m. and void until 11:46 p.m. when it enters the sign of Aries.
Today’s Moon-Pluto conjunction could push you towards a goal. The passion and excitement you feel about a project, a person or a situation could help you get it off the ground. There’s an intensity to transform something big. Moon VoC at 6:25 p.m. until 10:42 p.m. when it enters the sign of Aquarius.
Saturday, October 12
Monday, October 7
Sunday, October 13
You may find yourself in the role of the teacher when Mercury opposes Uranus. You have valuable insights and wisdom to share. Intuition is heightened when these two planets get together, so slow down and pay attention to the signals the Universe is sending you.
You may find yourself in a power struggle in some of your relationships when Pluto squares both the Sun and Moon. You could feel your survival depends on you defending yourself and your beliefs. There could be someone in authority who is pushing your buttons. Is there another way to resolve this issue without having a confrontation? By examining both sides of the equation you just may be able to transform the situation into something beneficial for everyone. Full Moon is in Aries at 4:08 p.m. Moon VoC at 4:59 p.m. and void the remainder of the day.
Tuesday, October 8 Venus enters the sign of Scorpio at 12:06 p.m. for approximately three weeks. When Venus is in Scorpio, you can expect your relationships to be more intense and passionate. There could also be some brooding and jealousy happening. The MoonSun trine may give you the extra shot of energy you need to start your engine. Sparks are flying and you think of a great idea. Moon VoC at 1:27 p.m. and void for the rest of today.
Wednesday, October 9 The Moon-Venus trine could find you kicking your shoes off and hanging out with
Emotions might be heightened when the Moon opposes Mars. How can you be in a relationship and be true to yourself while giving someone else ample space to express themselves? Everyone’s opinion is valid including your own, just don’t shout it from the rooftops.
Monday, October 14 Happy Thanksgiving to my Canadian Readers! Today’s Taurus Moon is about sensual delights. What do you love to eat or drink? How does your body feel when you move it, whether you’re exercising or going for a walk in nature? Listen to your body and feed it what it needs. You could also be ready to try something new that
Wednesday, October 16 With the Moon Void of Course in Taurus for most of the day, this could be a great time to go over your finances and make sure everything’s in order. Don’t make any major decisions today, you can adjust your accounts and move things around tomorrow. Moon VoC at 3:37 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. when it enters the sign of Gemini.
Thursday, October 17 The Moon-Mars trine can spark excitement when working with others today. You’re curious about the result of combining your ideas and your colleagues’. Make sure to find balance when working together, meaning that it’s not one-sided, or that everyone is being so diplomatic that no one wants to push their idea forward and nothing is accomplished. Someone has to be decisive and take charge.
Friday, October 18 You’re overflowing with goodwill and generosity when the Moon opposes Jupiter. You enjoy lavishing those you care for with gifts, just be conscious of overdoing it. There may be a new class that has piqued your interest and you’re excited to learn more about it. Moon VoC at 9:14 p.m.
Saturday, October 19 The Mercury-Pluto sextile can help you delve into situations. You want to understand the hidden meaning behind what people are really saying. When you ask the right questions, you’ll get the answers you’re seeking. You’re not easily fooled or persuaded to do something if you don’t believe in it. There is the possibility that your “Spidey sense” is tingling and that you will get to the bottom of the problem or situation. Moon enters the sign of Cancer at 5:43 a.m. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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Sunday, October 20
Tuesday, October 22
Sunday, October 27
There are a lot of different energies at play today which can feel confusing. Life is like that though from moment to moment. The Moon-Venus trine is lovely and enhances your relationships in a positive light. You’re enjoying the finer things in life. Then the Moon-Saturn opposition says you may want to curb your spending and save some money for a rainy day. The Moon in Cancer is saying nurture yourself but, that means different things to different people. So, after all that… enjoy the day and remember all things in moderation.
You may feel it’s time to cut back on some of your more extravagant spending when the Moon squares Venus. Finding balance while keeping yourself and others happy may feel like a tall order but you’re up for the challenge. Being sociable and having a good time are high on your list right now and it’s great to let off steam, but be careful of overindulging and overspending. Actually, you may want to leave your credit card at home to curb spending.
You’re ready to let something go so you can begin anew with the New Moon in Scorpio. Unexpected circumstances could bring an opportunity to light that is the start of a new business venture. Don’t be afraid to let go of what’s no longer serving you; something better is around the corner. New Moon in Scorpio at 10:39 p.m. Moon VoC at 3:22 a.m. until 3:29 p.m. when it enters the sign of Scorpio.
Wednesday, October 23
You’re inspired to go after what you want when the Moon sextiles Saturn. It may take some hard work and ingenuity to figure out what needs to be done to bring you closer to your goals.
Monday, October 21 When Venus trines Neptune, it can encourage you to walk with your head in the clouds, dreaming about what you want. Maybe it’s a relationship, a new career or going on a dream vacation. Can you turn your dreams into reality? You get to decide if you want to follow through with action or just let it slip through your fingers. Moon VoC at 7:39 a.m. until 11:29 a.m. when it enters the sign of Leo.
Advertisers’ Index AVANA HEALING............................................3 BUSINESS DIRECTORY................................32 CCM ADVERTISE WITH US......................11,39 CCM DISTRIBUTION....................................27 CCM SALES PEOPLE WANTED.....................39 CCM SOCIAL MEDIA....................................11 CCM SUBSCRIBE NOW................................39 DR. C. SCOT GILES......................................25 EARTHSONG.................................................7 FLOWERING HEART CENTER.......................11 GENE SISKEL CENTER.................................11 INFINITY FOUNDATION................................19 IVY NICOLE NATURAL REMEDIES...................7 JAPAN MOVIE:IMMORTAL HERO..................40 LARRABEE HERBS.........................................7 LIGHT UNLTD/THE REJUVENIZER...................2 OXYGEN HEALTH SYSTEMS...........................7 PERENNIAL MUSIC & ART..............................7 RASHA........................................................11 REBECCA ROCKWOOD..................................7 RENEW CONFERENCE.................................31 TRINITY HEALTH FREEDOM EXPO..................3
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Today, I wish a Happy Birthday to all the Scorpios out there! The Moon sextile Sun brings an opportunity for getting some work done. Finding the balance between your inner and the outer world is the key. Take the time to figure out what you need, as well as what is required of you to make your way in the world. Stay present and in the flow and adjust accordingly. Moon VoC at 4:14 a.m. until 2:29 p.m. when it enters the sign of Virgo.
Thursday, October 24 Dreams, wistfulness and imagination are highlighted when the Moon opposes Neptune. Focus on what you want to manifest and harness the energy of the Virgo Moon to bring it into the world. You can turn dreams into reality; it just takes some discipline and planning.
Friday, October 25 While the Moon is Void of Course, it’s a great time to just keep working on your craft. Your attention to detail and your work ethic is something to be admired. By the time the Moon moves into the sign of Libra, it’s almost time to call it quits for the day and enjoy the weekend. Go out and put your work and worries behind you. Have a great evening. Moon VoC at 8:00 a.m. until 3:20 p.m. when it enters the sign of Libra.
Saturday, October 26 The Moon-Mars conjunction in Libra is asking if you really want to get into any disagreements or debates today. You have the choice to let things roll off your back or cut someone down with your sharp tongue. It would be so much nicer to get along, and if need be, to put your two heads together to work side by side. More work can get accomplished when cooperating.
Monday, October 28
Tuesday, October 29 When the Moon conjuncts Venus and Mercury, you could be having some difficult conversations with your loved ones. What has gone unsaid or needs to come out in the open? There is the potential for some fireworks today if someone isn’t thrilled with what you have to say. It could go the other way, and an open conversation makes your bond stronger than ever. Moon VoC at 12:34 p.m. until 4:58 p.m. when it enters the sign of Sagittarius.
Wednesday, October 30 You could be feeling optimistic and excited about a few areas of your life. Are you trying to do everything, be there for everyone and spreading yourself too thin in the process? Remember, a little bit of balance is a good thing. Slow down and take a breath. Take the time to really be present for whatever or whomever, instead of being half-way in.
Thursday, October 31 Happy Hallowe’en! The Moon is Void of Course for most of today so this could be a good time to reassess your long-term goals. Everything happens in its own time, but if you’ve done some legwork ahead of time, it could progress a little more smoothly. Mercury stations Retrograde at 10:41 a.m. Moon VoC at 9:30 a.m. until 9:38 p.m. when it enters the sign of Capricorn. Bernadette Evans is a counseling astrologer, hypnotherapist, Registered Professional Counsellor and writer. She can be reached at 780-289-7398 or Bbevans001@gmail.com to schedule a consultation. Her website is www.mindshift counselling.com.
Of course, we can put our phones down. We can click off of the news sites, avoid social media and shield ourselves from the stories that seem to be an endless reminder that the world is full of danger and hatred. So then why don’t we? Well, for one thing, our brains do not want us to. You see, our smartphones give us a steady stream of social interaction, which makes our brains release dopamine. Dopamine makes us feel good and makes us want to repeat the behavior that made us feel that way. So, we pick up our phones over and over again throughout the day to get that social interaction and that dopamine. The good news is that addictions can be broken and new habits formed. Below are some things to try.
Fight Technology with Technology You can find several different apps to limit access to your smartphone. Some apps allow you to shut down certain sites or programs and others restrict access during certain times of day. In fact, if you own an iPhone, you can even set limits on your actual phone.
Enjoy Nature
BREAK FREE
FROM THE GLOOM AND DOOM OF THE DAILY NEWS by Laura Clay
You used to be able to escape from the news. You could put down the newspaper, turn off the TV and not think about it anymore. But then came the internet, social media and smartphones. Now, the news has become a 24/7 presence in our lives, a running dialogue of dramatic, heartbreaking and often terrifying stories. For many people, this never-ending news ticker causes overwhelming anxiety and feelings of fear. This fear often causes us to alter our behavior, keeping us from living our lives to the fullest. Some even begin to experience agoraphobia—a disorder that causes people to fear certain places and situations. In the late 1890s the term “Yellow Journalism” was coined to describe the dramatic headlines and sensationalized news stories being churned out by two major newspapers in New York in an attempt to sell the most papers. Sometimes they used made-up sources and exaggerated events, long before the term “fake news.” In 1908, The National Press Club was created and helped promote a style of journalism with a focus on ethics and standards. One hundred years later, the internet and social media created new challenges to the sale of paper newspapers, resulting in a revival of some of the old habits and techniques from the days of “Yellow Journalism.” In a digital world, the quest is for clicks and views, rather than newspaper sales, and the stories are delivered right into our line of sight by our friends and family members on Facebook or through news apps on our phones.
Getting outside can help you feel centered and at peace. Whether you take a long, vigorous hike or sit quietly outside, nature is the perfect antidote to some of the stresses of the larger world.
Bond with Your Pets Studies have shown that when we gaze at our pets, our brains release oxytocin, otherwise known as the love hormone. As dog and cat lovers know, sometimes the best therapy is to simply snuggle with our pets to make stress just melt away.
Reiki Energy Healing A Reiki practitioner seeks to channel universal life energy and direct it to flow through their client’s body in order to balance the chakras. Through Reiki, a practitioner can help move energetic blocks to balance out a chakra that is related to a specific issue that a person is trying to overcome. Stress blocks the flow of energy, therefore weakening it. A Reiki master can help overcome those blocks and restore the flow of energy.
Holistic Life Coaching Holistic Life Coaching helps clients work through difficult emotions, align with their authentic self and resolve issues in a safe environment. Holistic Life Coaching can help a person break through negative beliefs about the world and themselves while redirecting those thoughts into positive, self-confident thoughts that help them move forward in life. So give yourself a break from the negativity that is at your fingertips. Put your phone on ‘Do not disturb,’ or turn it off for a few hours. Choose who you let into your ‘brain.’ Read positive articles right here in Conscious Community. Try one or more of the suggestions above. If you still need help, reach out to someone who provides Reiki and life coaching. You do have a choice when it comes to what you allow into your stream of consciousness. Laura Clay, is a therapist and founder of Forward Emotion, LLC, a private practice in Lisle, IL. Other providers are Sabrina Washington, an expert in Reiki and Holistic Life Coaching and Erica Sokol, a therapist who specializes in positive body image. Visit www.forwardemotion.com. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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[BOOK REVIEWS]
In Print Reviews by Kayla Hancock
Be, Awake, Create: Mindful Practices to Spark Creativity,
by Rebekah Younger, MFA (Reveal Press, $19.95, Paperback) Creativity always has an ebb and flow. Rebekah Younger seeks to help those whose creative impulses have stagnated, by sharing practices that will help readers break out of limiting patterns of behavior and thinking. Whether you are an avid artist or someone who is looking to expand their creative expression, this book will help you to experience life with a fresh perspective. Younger offers readers hands-on activities and meditative practices to create a greater awareness from which to draw creative energy.
Conceiving with Love: A WholeBody Approach to Creating Intimacy, Reigniting Passion, and Increasing Fertility, by Denise Wiesner with Linda
Sparrowe (Shambhala, $19.95, Paperback)
Trying to conceive can be a huge stressor for couples. Denise Wiesner and Linda Sparrowe share practices from both Eastern and Western traditions to help couples who are struggling to conceive. Inside this book, you will find practices to help couples reclaim their intimacy and reignite their sexual relationship, advice from leading experts in reproductive medicine and traditional Chinese Medicine, an indepth question and answer section and much more.
Self-Love through the Sacred Feminine: A Guide through the
Paintings & Channelings of Jo Jayson, by Jo Jayson (Red Feather, $24.99, Hardcover
Moved by 13 feminine energies and the desire to share their loving message, Jo Jayson created 13 paintings of powerful female archetypes. Guided by spirit, she helps readers to connect with their divine feminine through ancient wisdom and sacred prayers associated with these goddesses. This book can be used to find one’s inner creatrix, to connect with the heart’s true desires, and ultimately, to embody the divine feminine and incorporate magic into everyday life.self-motivation will prove itself more effective in children’s education than coercive models that dominate most of the modern world’s schooling. 38
| CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2019
Incident, Not Accident: Untwisting Our Spiritual Story, by Suzan Strader (Mascot Books, $14.95, Hardcover) When Suzan Strader almost lost her life in a car accident, she realized that very moment of trauma was actually a gift. Strader was forced to take an honest look at her life. This is the story of her transformation—it will help you learn how to transform your own life with the most ease.
The Gifts Beneath Your Anxiety: Simple Spiritual Tools to Find Peace, Awaken the Power Within and Heal Your Life, by Pat Longo (Citadel, $26, Hardcover) In modern society, it seems as though everyone has had personal experience with anxiety. Pat Longo believes that is a sign of more people having extremely sensitive perceptions and heightened intuition. She has worked with many well-known empaths (including the “Long Island Medium”), to uncover his/her sacred gifts and eliminate anxiety symptoms. Longo helps readers connect with their spiritual selves and to enhance intuitive abilities with various meditations, visualizations, psychometry and more.
Working with Chakras for Belief Change: The Healing InSight Method, by Nikki Gresham-Record (Findhorn Press, $24.99, Paperback)
When old beliefs and habits no longer serve us, it is important that we know how to let go and embrace the new. In this book, Nikki Gresham-Record explains The Healing InSight Method to help readers bring their energy centers (or chakras) into balance. She provides methods stemming from practices such as kinesiology, qigong, visualization and more to encourage full mind-bodyspirit healing. Gresham-Record also identifies 28 beliefs associated with each chakra and specific affirmations and therapeutic processes to bring these beliefs into alignment. Kayla Hancock is grateful to be a part of this community. She is a Licensed Massage Therapist, Reiki Practitioner and certified Deeksha giver who enjoys working alongside her angels and spirit guides to bring more love, joy and compassion into the world.
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