A Guide to Starting a Cygnus Café

We know that we have many members who are interested in starting Cygnus Cafés in their community, and that they have questions, both about how to get started and also how they want their group to run. Below is a mini-guide to running a Cygnus Café to give you a taste of what you can expect – if you would like to start your own Café please do get in touch.

❖ The starting point for setting up a group is the purpose of a Cygnus Café, and that is creating a space for you to meet people of like mind in your own locality. Nowadays it is often the case that you might find you can only get so far by yourself using a book. Sometimes it can be a great help on your spiritual journey to share issues that feel unresolved, with others of like heart.

❖ Most of our groups run in what we would call an unstructured way, they have no agenda and allow the magic of the moment to provide the topics spontaneously, depending on who wishes to share their recently experienced insights or share their current concerns of the heart.

❖ When getting down to practicalities the first thing you need is a space, generally meetings are held in members’ homes or quiet rooms in cafés or community spaces. Any room hire costs etc. are shared by the participants on a donation basis. We advise avoiding noisy venues or spaces that have no door, as this helps a great deal. You need a safe space where you know you will not be interrupted.

❖ When thinking about when and how often to hold your meetings, consider the needs of the group when deciding what is best for (most of) you. Some groups choose mornings, others evenings, some even choose a weekend. Larger groups sometimes choose to have two meetings in a month, once in the evening and once in the morning, to match the different lifestyles. Most meeting last for around 2 hours and our advice is to stick to the same day every month, week or fortnight to allow people to organise their diaries.

❖ Many groups take a little while to gain momentum, and this is normal. We suggest you avoid the temptation of trying to find a perfect arrangement.

❖ For meeting support you can contact Vicky Hartley at Cygnus on vicky@ cygnus-books.co.uk

❖ Setting up for the meeting we suggest that the host prepares the room in the most appropriate way, arranging the seating so that everyone has eye-to-eye contact. Meetings generally begin with everyone taking turns to say their name and where they are from and, if they wish, a mention about something they may want to talk about later.

❖ Many groups have found it very helpful to keep the level of the meeting at a higher level by setting the intention of the group to the highest good at the beginning of the meeting. So that, whatever happens, the highest good may come out of it.

❖ Gradually most groups begin to observe how Cygnus Cafés can grow in depth as participants feel more comfortable and they can share their vulnerabilities and “soft spots”. This gives others the confidence to share their concerns or doubts.

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The Art Of Channeling

by Jenny Tyson

The key to this new title is its interesting approach to the age-old dilemma of whether or not to trust the messages we receive from the spirits. The author, who both studies and practices intuitive skills, contends that spirits cannot lie and it is the channelers who are deceiving themselves by “mistaking the expectations and beliefs of their own minds for spirit communication”. In her book, she lays out her uniquely structured method of question and response which is designed to attain accurate communications. It’s a hands-on book and you don’t need to be experienced to use it. By the end of the book you’ll be equipped to communicate with extraterrestrials, angels, ghosts, nature spirits, and even the Universal Mind that is the source of all knowledge. 264pp, 229 x 152 mm, Paperback, 2022, RRP £16.99

❖ Code: 330124 ❖ Non-Member Price: £14.43 ❖ Member Price: £12.99

The Alpha And The Omega

by Louisa Crisp

Louisa has written two previous books under the name Anna Delves: From Chrysalis to Butterfly and A Memory Returned, which have both been popular with Cygnus. This is her first new book for a long time and it recounts how we have fallen out of balance with the Source and shows us a path to finding connection again. Louisa runs a farm and retreat centre in the Cotswolds where she offers space and peace to people and also guidance where required that comes through her close connection to the Source. It’s this rare connection that enables her to get an insight into the deeper workings of the universe. What she has to say is hopeful because we are living with a sense of separation and it’s down to us to get past it. We need to listen closely to our own intuition and then do the work to be more honest and direct with ourselves.

324pp, 234 x 156 mm, Paperback, 2023, RRP £16.99

❖ Code: 330159 ❖ Non-Member Price: £13.32 ❖ Member Price: £11.99

INITIATION INTO DREAM MYSTERIES by Sarah

Janes

GENTLY DOWN THIS DREAM by Hugh

and Gayle Prather

If Wayne Dyer says “I love this man - and all that he writes” we know we’re going to enjoy a book! This collection of essays, poems and aphorisms come from the pioneering and best selling author of Notes to Myself, published in 1970. It’s something of a surprise to see it after all this time, and it’s thanks to an agent (and fan) who recently asked Prather’s widow, Gayle, if she had any unpublished work from him. Gently Down This Dream is like his others in that it is episodic and inspirational while also being warm, personal, loving and spiritual. He writes with humour and you always feel it’s from his heart; it’s also not preachy and he is so good at articulating a way through what can often seem the prison of the self and providing a means for navigating the world at large. One for fans and newbies alike.

172pp, 563 x 178 mm, Paperback, 2023, RRP £16.99

❖ Code: 330123 ❖ Non-Member Price: £14.43 ❖ Member Price: £12.99

21st Century Fairy

by Morgan Daimler

Fairies are as much around today as they were in ancient times or in the time of Queen Elizabeth. They might look the same as they used to or they might look different. They can even live in the city although they prefer the countryside. Here is a vivid guide to fairy life today, about what they might look like and how we might be able to encounter them. Of course it is also full of stories. Morgan is a real expert in these matters and she is also the author of A New Dictionary of Fairies. Times are changing quickly and I feel the veil between worlds is growing ever thinner so these encounters are important as there is much we can learn from them. It’s a short book but there is plenty to inspire us to get out there and experience the world in all its richness and variety.

104pp, 216 x 140 mm, Paperback, 2023, RRP £9.99

❖ Code: 330104 ❖ Non-Member Price: £7.76 ❖ Member Price: £6.99

21 Days To Decode Your Dreams

by Leon Nacson

* Please note the

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We have had books recently which have covered aspects of working with dreams from the Tibetan tradition but by contrast this works within the heritage of the European mystery schools, specifically the practices fostered in Ancient Greece. Most of the text is focused on images from Greece and from Classical Egypt. The author, who lives in Hastings, gives a history of dream work from this mystery school past and tips on how we can do the same work ourselves. She recounts many dreams of initiation in a very poetic, mystical way. It’s refreshing to read this unconventional and unusual account from someone who is confident this approach has fuelled the development of culture throughout history. Each chapter, with the meditation that goes with it, is like another initiation on the path to self-realisation.

192pp, 229 x 152 mm, Paperback, 2023, RRP £14.99

❖ Code: 330140 ❖ Non-Member Price: £11.10 ❖ Member Price: £9.99

This is another in the popular ‘21 Days To…’ series of books from Hay House which remind us that 21 days of practice is the optimum time for establishing a habit or mastering a piece of knowledge. In this book, Nacson gives us the tools to decipher our dreams, sharing a different piece of knowledge for each of the 21 days. From understanding the language of dreams, how to decode your dreams and the appearance of popular expressions, Nacson also tells us about the meaning of many of the subjects that make an appearance in our dreams from our teeth falling out and flying, to animals, family and even celebrities. By Day 21 you’ll be able to unravel most things, including the dream you had about kissing Michael Caine in a Mini! This is an easy to use, great value read.

192pp, 196 x 130 mm, Paperback, 2023, RRP £10.99

❖ Code: 330115 ❖ Non-Member Price: £7.22 ❖ Member Price: £6.50

HO’OPONOPONO by Ulrich E. Dupree

Powerful yet concise, this revolutionary guide summarises the Hawaiian ritual of forgiveness and offers methods for immediately creating positive effects in everyday life. Exploring the concept that everyone is deeply connected - despite feelings of singularity and separation - four tenets are disclosed for creating peace with oneself and others: I am sorry, Please forgive me, I love you, and Thank you. Offering practical exercises, this simple four-step system encourages readers to focus on difficult conflicts within personal relationships and healing the past. By addressing these issues, owning one’s feelings, and accepting unconditional love, unhealthy situations transform into favourable experiences. Final chapters delve into love relationships, health and career, and healing the planet.

96pp, 163 x 115 mm, Paperback, 2012, RRP £5.99

❖ Code: 221001 ❖ Non-Member Price: £4.43 ❖ Member Price: £3.99

The Heart Of Yoga

by T.K.V. Desikachar

Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya was one of the greatest yogis of the modern era; he developed the concept of Viniyoga which maintains that practices must be continually adapted to the individual’s changing needs to achieve the maximum therapeutic value. This book about Viniyoga is written by his son, T. K. V. Desikachar, who lived and worked with Krishnamacharya, and who was a teacher of Viniyoga himself. He’s brought a practical eye to the narrative, creating a step-by-step sequence for us to follow which will provide “a program for the spine at every level - physical, mental, and spiritual”. He also discusses all the elements of yoga and shows how we can develop a practice tailored to our current state of health, age, occupation, and lifestyle. The book includes 32 beautiful poems by Krishnamacharya that really capture the essence of his teachings.

272pp, 253 x 206 mm, Paperback, 1999, RRP £16.99

❖ Code: 330142 ❖ Non-Member Price: £12.21 ❖ Member Price: £10.99

The Gospel Of Mary Magdalene

edited by Jean-Yves Leloup

Perhaps no figure in the Bible has been the subject of more controversy than Mary Magdalene. In most theological studies she has been depicted as a reformed prostitute, the redeemed sinner who exemplifies Christ’s mercy. Her own gospel is one of the so-called Gnostic gospels rejected by the early Christian church, and until recently it has remained unknown to the public at large. Theologian Jean-Yves Leloup’s translation of the Gospel of Mary from the Coptic and his thorough commentary on this text are presented here for the first time in English. The text and his commentary together reveal unique teachings that emphasise the eminence of the divine feminine and an abiding love of nature over the dualistic and ascetic interpretations of Christianity presented elsewhere.

208pp, 227 x 154 mm, Paperback, 2002, RRP £12.99

❖ Code: 330144 ❖ Non-Member Price: £9.44 ❖ Member Price: £8.50

Colloidal Silver

by Werner Kuhni and Walter von Holst

Colloidal silver was widely used as a natural antibiotic and antiviral until the mid-20th century when its use was overshadowed by the development of pharmaceutical antibiotics. Now with the rise of antibioticresistant infections, colloidal silver has re-entered the sights of medical researchers, alternative health practitioners, and those looking to take control of their own health. In this practical guide, the authors explore the many uses and benefits of colloidal silver for boosting immunity, reducing pain and inflammation, and treating more than 80 common diseases and conditions. They reveal how colloidal silver works against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, including strep, staph, and candida, often in a matter of minutes. They examine how it accelerates the healing of cuts and bruises and how it can also be used to treat our animal companions.

160pp, 274 x 154 mm, Paperback, 2016, RRP £11.99

❖ Code: 330146 ❖ Non-Member Price: £8.87 ❖ Member Price: £7.99

ANGELS OF LIGHT CARDS (POCKET EDITION)

by Diana Cooper

Angels are willing and able to help us in many ways throughout our lives. All we need to do is call on them and they will respond. Diana Cooper devised this set of 52 cards as a tool for bringing angels into your life and allowing them to help you. Each card has written on it an angel message of help and guidance plus an affirmation. Choose one whenever you feel you need to and allow the words to raise your consciousness to higher levels. This is a smaller pocket-sized version of the larger edition of the cards that will fit into the smallest of bags, so you can always have them with you. This classic angel deck has helped thousands of people around the world. The larger edition of the cards is also available with the stock code 101053.

52 cards plus 1 instruction card, 2009, RRP £6.99

❖ Code: 191018 ❖ Non-Member Price: £4.43 ❖ Member Price: £3.99

ANGELS OF ATLANTIS ORACLE CARDS by Stewart Pearce

The Angels of Atlantis Oracle Cards are inspired by the Twelve Archangels of Atlantis. The cards depict each Archangel as an Orb and are intended to act as loving, wise guides, providing powerful counsel and healing. Connecting with the characteristics of these ancient beings can, says Stewart Pearce, assist in allowing miracles to occur in your life. The simple and direct heart virtues given on each card will inspire you to form answers to life questions. The beautifully designed cards are accompanied by a booklet offering help on how to develop your oracular abilities, with the angels’ light shining on your life path. Great guidance offered by a leading UK spiritual teacher.

44 cards and a 48-page booklet, 2011, RRP £12.99

❖ Code: 210312 ❖ Non-Member Price: £9.44 ❖ Member Price: £8.50

The Woman With The Alabaster

JAR by Margaret

Starbird

Margaret Starbird’s theological beliefs were profoundly shaken when she read Holy Blood, Holy Grail, a book that dared to suggest that Jesus Christ was married to Mary Magdalene and that their descendants carried on his holy bloodline in Western Europe. Shocked by such heresy, this Roman Catholic scholar set out to refute it, but instead found new and compelling evidence for the existence of the bride of Jesus, the same enigmatic woman who anointed him with precious unguent from her “alabaster jar”. Her book went on to influence Dan Brown and consequently he wrote The Da Vinci Code, which put into fiction her work and the work of the Holy Blood Holy Grail authors. Here though you can read all her compelling research in detail. This book literally changed the world and has been a bestseller ever since.

240pp, 228 x 153 mm, Paperback, 1993, RRP £14.99

❖ Code: 330145 ❖ Non-Member Price: £11.10 ❖ Member Price: £9.99

Vibrational Medicine

by Dr Richard Gerber

This is the ground-breaking classic overview of alternative medicine that has sold hundreds of thousands of copies since it was first published in 1988. Vibrational Medicine has gained widespread acceptance by individuals, schools, and health-care institutions worldwide as the textbook of choice for the study of alternative medicine. Trained in a variety of alternative therapies as well as conventional Western medicine, Dr. Gerber provides an encyclopaedic treatment of energetic healing, covering subtle-energy fields, acupuncture, Bach flower remedies, homeopathy, radionics, crystal healing, electrotherapy, radiology, chakras, meditation, and psychic healing. The book has been consistently updated in the years since its initial publication.

608pp, 227 x 154 mm, Paperback, 2001, RRP £15.99

❖ Code: 330147 ❖ Non-Member Price: £11.66 ❖ Member Price: £10.50

PRIMAL BODY, PRIMAL MIND

by Nora T. Gedgaudas

This has been one of the foundational books of the so-called Paleo trend in nutrition and health maintenance. The author is a highly qualified nutritional therapist. The text is wonderfully easy to read and understand, but it is also full to the brim with strong scientific back-up. With step-by-step guidelines, recipes, and meal recommendations, this book offers sustainable strategies for a primally based, yet modern approach to diet and exercise to reduce stress and anxiety, lose weight, improve sleep and mood, increase energy and immunity, enhance brain function, save money on groceries, and live longer and happier. It’s still a controversial field and this approach tends to lean on animal products but I think that still there’s a lot we can all learn from books like this.

416pp, 228 x 154 mm, Paperback, 2011, RRP £16.99

❖ Code: 330149

❖ Non-Member Price: £12.21

The Complete I Ching

translated by Alfred Huang

Many call this the most complete and user-friendly version there is of the Chinese divination classic. Master Huang, a Taoist master, first translated the ancient ideograms of the I Ching into contemporary Chinese and then into English, bringing forth the intuitive meanings embodied in the images. However, what makes his translation truly definitive is his return to prominence of the Ten Wings, the commentaries by Confucius that are essential to the I Ching’s insights. This edition offers a thorough introduction to the history of the Ching, how to use it, and several new divination methods; in-depth and easy-to-reference translations of each hexagram name, description, and pictogram; and discussions of the interrelations between the hexagrams and the spiritual meaning of their sequence. It’s a lovely book and the gateway to a lifetime of study. 576pp, 225 x 156 mm, Paperback, 2010, RRP £16.99

❖ Code: 330150 ❖ Non-Member Price: £12.21 ❖ Member Price: £10.99

The Five Tibetans

by Christopher S. Kilham

Originating in the Himalayas, the five yogic exercises known as the Five Tibetans take only a minimum of daily time and effort but dramatically increase physical strength, energy, and suppleness. Also called the Five Rites of Rejuvenation, these exercises were brought to the West in the early 20th century by a retired British army officer who learned them in a Tibetan monastery. Regular practice of these postures relieves muscle tension and nervous stress, improves digestion, strengthens the cardiovascular system, tunes and energises the chakras, and leads to deep relaxation and well-being. This short book has sold tens of thousands of copies over the years and is well illustrated with photos of the easy-to-do poses. The author has also included short chapters on Yoga Nidra and Kundalini meditation. 96pp, 208 x 139 mm, Paperback, 2011, RRP £8.99

❖ Code: 330148 ❖ Non-Member Price: £5.54 ❖ Member Price: £4.99

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR INFLAMMATION by Christopher Vasey

Anti-inflammatory drugs are now the top-selling pharmaceuticals, but daily use can lead to other chronic conditions and further medication. In this practical guide, naturopath Christopher Vasey explores 38 anti-inflammatory herbs, such as laurel, basil and turmeric, as well as other natural substances, such as fish oil. He explains how, like fever, inflammation is a defensive reaction of the body and also carries out a cleansing process, which natural remedies support but drugs can destabilise. He examines many of the most common inflammationrelated ailments such as allergies, asthma, arthritis and eczema, and explains which medicinal plant or food supplement is best suited to alleviate unpleasant symptoms while helping the body complete the healing the inflammation was initiated to perform.

192pp, 211 x 136 mm, Paperback, 2015, RRP £12.99

❖ Member Price: £10.99

❖ Code: 330143 ❖ Non-Member Price: £9.44 ❖ Member Price: £8.50

In 1939, at his ashram near the city of Wardha in central India, Mahatma Gandhi was growing increasingly concerned about events in Europe. Now 69 years old, Gandhi had spent his life as an advocate of non-violence, so was disturbed by the conflict that seemed about to erupt thousands of miles away. When the news reached Gandhi that Hitler had invaded Czechoslovakia, he decided to write to the German dictator. In a letter dated July 1939, Gandhi addressed Hitler as “Dear Friend”, and wrote, “It is quite clear that you are today the one person in the world who can prevent a war which may reduce humanity to a savage state. Must you pay that price for an object however worthy it may appear to you to be? Will you listen to the appeal of one who has deliberately shunned the method of war not without considerable success?”

…It is not known whether this letter reached Hitler – perhaps it never even left India. But if Hitler did read it, he ignored it. Just a few weeks later, he invaded Poland, triggering the outbreak of World War II.

…The fundamental difference between Hitler and Gandhi is one of connection. The “goodness” of Gandhi – or of any highly altruistic and spiritually developed person – is the result of a highly connected sense of self, which experiences a high level of empathy and compassion towards others. With a highly connected sense

DISCONNECTED by Steve Taylor