September 2015 ~ Vol. I, Issue 5
volving in Santa Fe
A Guide for Conscious Living Living Proof Nothing Unnecessary Medicinal Honey Gentle Ways to Detox Evolving‌in SANTA FE
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September 2015
Evolving‌in SANTA FE
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September 2015
Associate Publisher’s Letter...
Contents
Dear Friend, Transformation and growth are what Evolving are all about. Or mostly all about. Transforming consciously. Growing purposefully. Having an idea of who you are but a desire to be someone different, or better, or deeper. That’s what everything in Evolving is really pointing toward: an upward change. How to do it, though, that’s the rub. It’s pretty easy to say, This is what I want to do, This is who I’d rather be, This is where I want to end up. Getting there, however, can be a challenge. Sometimes, transformation is thrust upon us. We don’t so much have a choice when something happens to us—the choice, though, becomes what we do in response to something happening to us. Which is where the real growth comes from. What do you do after you’ve been knocked down? Did the way you dealt with it change you? Did you use getting knocked down as an opportunity for self-evaluation? Most times, though, we want to change, we want to improve ourselves, our behavior, our way of being. (Or we say we do.) Even so, the battle is still much the same as when something happened to us out of the blue: it’s how we deal with the event that will determine how much we will or will not change. It’s ultimately our choice: to go to that yoga class, to eat better, to practice meditation, to be more mindful of what motivates others as well as ourselves. So, being that this is the issue of living proof—the theme being stories of transformation and growth, against all odds, overcoming adversity—we’d like to hear from you. Your stories of personal growth and transformation, how you overcame the odds, overcame adversity, overcame something outside yourself or inside yourself (because, really, that’s where the real challenge lies—and the true growth and transformation occurs: inside you). So send us these stories. Go to our website to read the writer’s guidelines and upcoming themes, or just email me at mccannman@comcast.net, and over the next several issues, we’ll share your stories with other Evolving readers. Because that’s the other thing we’re trying to do: share our stories—your stories—with others, because when you read about what other people have gone through and overcome, you feel less alone, more capable of achieving what it is you most want to achieve.
Living Proof 11
Sally’s Secrets: How to be Happy with a Challenge Called Parkinson’s Disease 12
Nothing Unneccessary Excerpt from Nothing Left Over 13
Vitality Foods: Gentle Ways to Detox Vitality Spring Rolls
WxäÉÇ ]tv~áÉÇ Stay Connected all Month! *Read the magazine online: www.EvolvingMagazine.com *Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/EvolvingSantaFe *Follow us on Twitter: @EvolvingMag
Evolving Magazine, LLC Jill Dutton, Publisher Associate Publisher Devon Jackson Print Layout/Design Alea Smith
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Departments
Monthly Columnists Valeria Alarcón, Tomas Enos, Corine Frankland, Erin Galiger, Heather Robertson, Judy Scher Advertising Devon Jackson mccannman@comcast.net Jill Dutton jill@evolvingmagazine.com
News & Tips
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Multi-Dimensional Mastery
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Herbal Wisdom
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Heart & Business
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Eating Well in Santa Fe
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Somatic Psychology
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Wanderlust
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Horoscope
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Events
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ON THE COVER: I’ll Meet You There by Lisa Linch, original 36” x 48”, oil on canvas. According to Lisa, the painting was inspired by the New Mexico landscapes. After living in Atlanta and other parts of the country, the magical lighting of the New Mexico landscape has been inspiring to her. She says it is a daily reminder of how wonderful it has been to live and work here. View more of her art and contact her at www.bradsmithgallery.com
EVOLVING© 2015 all rights reserved. The opinions expressed are those of the authors. The articles in EVOLVING are not meant to represent any form of medical or psychiatric care. No portion of the publication may be reproduced without express written permission from the publisher.
Evolving…in SANTA FE
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September 2015
News & Tips
Angel Portraits and Crystal Bowl Meditations quality: “The more you have,” Prout cautions, “the more spiritual work you need to do.” The crystal bowl meditations are a way to induce healing for alignment. Both, though, are really after the same thing: healing and connection. And both, too, the angels and the bowls, operate on a kind of divine frequency: the Solfeggio, frequencies that make up the ancient 6-tone scale thought to have been used in sacred music, and tones that can impart spiritual blessings. Solfeggio is not only the frequency Prout brings out of her seven crystal bowls, it’s also the language native to angels. For those who can’t make it to her portrait sessions, she can also do portraits based on a photograph of the person wanting a portrait (the more recent the photo, the better). When done, she recommends people place the angel portrait somewhere where they can see it every day. “The healing potential of these frequencies—whether from the portraits or the bowls,” Prout says, “helps us realign with our original blueprint.” For more information, go to: facebook.com/pages/ Silver-Day-Trading-Company or susanproutart.com or call Silver Day Trading Co. at: 505-982-3310
Plenty of artists have imbued their work with spirituality. Mark Rothko’s monumental paintings expressed his connection to the divine in a very abstract way. While Marc Chagall peopled his works with actual angels. Susan Prout, though, sees angels every day. Every day. Everywhere. And not angels as visions or as fanciful creatures of our collective imagination but as, according to Prout, “multidimensional beings who exist outside time and space and on a different frequency.” It’s only natural, then, given her talents as an artist, that Prout would eventually render what she sees every day in artistic form: as angel portraits. Portraits she’s been making for others—portraits of other people’s angels—for the past 18 years. Based in Kansas City, she’ll be appearing September 18-20 at Dayton Simmons’ Silver Day Trading Co. in Madrid, where she’ll be making both individualized angel portraits for people (in the form of 9 x 2 color pencil illustrations), as well as holding two days’ worth of crystal bowl meditations. “This whole process goes back to two near-death experiences I had when I was four and six,” Prout explains of her connection to these divine beings. She did her first angel portrait of her now-former sister-in-law, shortly after the angels started showing her everybody else’s angels. “The angels wanted me to make these portraits for other people as a way to connect them with their angels,” Prout says. “One thing they’re big on is us asking them for help. But they can’t interfere with our free will.” While the portraits are a way to connect people with the divine (the fewest any individual has is three, and the most she’s seen in someone is 30—though quantity is not
The Living Proof of Ayurveda There is living proof that your body is fashioned by nature’s design. Every single particle of your body reflects the absolute perfection of nature’s influence throughout history. The ancient Indian medical system, Ayurveda, offers that everything in the macrocosm is echoed down to the microcosm: as above, so below. The Universe lives within you, just as you are the Universe. Sarvāṇi dravyāṇi pañca bhautakāni. Every substance is made of five elements. Health is achieved through the balancing of these five elements within each person: Ether, Air, Water, Fire, Earth. The connection between Ayurveda and health comes from organizing your biological systems to mirror that which nature has destined. Within each unique individual lies a unique measure of these five elements. Throughout life, these elements become imbalanced due to a variety of external influences, and your health may begin to diminish. Ayurveda’s primary ideal is that health comes from balancing the exclusive elemental constitution in your mind, body, and spirit. Transformation and growth can be earned via diet, lifestyle, and meditation habits that are conducive to the harmony of your body’s constitutional makeup. Ayurveda is personal to the individual based on countless factors—family history, current lifestyle, habitat—that culminate to make you the rare individual that you are. Even the planets under which you were born can sequence your successes and experiences throughout your life that make you you. The stars reveal the patterns generated by the interactions of all the laws of nature, from macrocosm to microcosm. Their core insight tells us of the holographic nature of reality: As is the whole, so is the part. Thus, the patterns of the heavens are mirrored throughout manifestation. —Inee Ader of Agni Ayurveda at agniayurveda.com, 1622 St. Michael’s, 505-438-1163
Evolving…in SANTA FE
Milagro Herbs Third Annual Medicine Show The twelve students from the Milagro School of Herbal Medicine certification program will be showcasing their herbal creations at booths in the Milagro Herbs parking lot. You will be able to sample their products, find out how they made them, ask them questions, and possibly buy their products (or get their contact info). A wide variety of products will be showcased: *Tea blends *Salves *Tinctures *Herbals Vinegars *Herbal honeys *Flower Essences *Herbal oils *Lozenges *Syrups *Herbal edibles/finger food
*Creams
*Lotions
Please come by and be amazed when sampling these delicious and amazing herbal concoctions!! Bring your friends and family! Tomas Enos will have distillation equipment outside for everyone to see and ask questions as he distills Desert Sage to extract its essential oil Saturday, September 26 from 2-4 p.m. Milagro Herbs, 419 Orchard Drive, Santa Fe (enter via Paseo de Peralta, next to Santa Fe Realty, near Canyon Rd). For questions, contact (505) 820-6321, info@milagroherbs.com, www.milagroherbs.com
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September 2015
Multi-Dimensional Mastery
The Four Sacred Seasons of Wellbeing
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he Four Sacred Seasons of Wellbeing refer to four distinct rhythms or periods during one’s journey in life. The Four Sacred Seasons influence our states of consciousness and every aspect of our lives. We call these seasons: Discover, Transform, Awaken and Integrate. In each season, different influences, strengths, timings, and supports are available. One of the key ways to access the unique strengths of each season is to live congruently, or “in season.” An analogy can be made to the four seasons in nature. When fruits or vegetables are “in season,” they are ripe and their time to be harvested has arrived. If you harvest an apple in the spring it will be tart and inedible. But if you wait until autumn, when the apple is “in season,” it will be sweet and nutritious. So with the four sacred seasons, living “in season” supports a more effortless and productive life experience. Living “out of season” leads to disappointment, pain and struggle. This article will provide an overview of the Four Sacred Seasons and how awareness of them can assist you to access the energy available for more graceful change and healing. The Season of Discover explores the following questions: How have I protected myself from things that seem out of my control? How have I caused pain for myself or others in an attempt to disconnect or avoid a different kind of pain? How have I dissociated from parts of my body and life that are painful (“I’m fine, but my back is not.”)? Your posture corresponds to your internal state. When your posture is in defense mode, it reflects the Season of Discover. Defense physiology occurs because at some time in the past your body was overwhelmed, and so it stored tension in your muscles, joints, etc. as a way to protect itself. Unfortunately, this “on” mode was never turned off because the body may not have had the resources. When your body is in this mode there is less energy available for healing, growth, or integration. This is why we often continue to have pain or a condition long after the original insult to your body occurred. In the Season of Discover we tend to focus on what is wrong and we become “a victim of circumstance.” The good news is that in this season we also begin to see how we have created this state of victimhood in our lives. In the Season of Transform we move into a place of personal responsibility. “Problem” and “blame” are concepts that are no longer useful in this season, and these are replaced by opportunities, goals, and deliberate action. We begin to see the source of your pain as a place of opportunity. In Transform, we take personal ownership for having re-enacted and sustained a defense strategy, for
distancing ourselves from our authentic nature, and for contributing to our life’s patterns. In this season your body begins to find a new way to redistribute the tension as stored energy of those old defense patterns that have been anchored in your spine and physiology. This allows for more effective communication throughout the entire system and helps create new possibilities for your body-mind. Without this suspension of the old defense patterns you will fall back into old ways of doing things. The Season of Awaken is about developing the powers of gratitude, awe and love, through the experience of an unlimited source of spacious energy and possibility. It is a state of effortless being and knowing. The undefended self experiences and remembers its authentic nature as it unfolds. In the Season of Awaken your posture and physiology exhibit expansion of the chest wall and the heart begins to lead, instead of the head. The last Season is Integrate. Integration happens when a person re-visits a previous season while still maintaining the developmental perspectives from another season, for example, approaching the traumas of Discover with the expansiveness of Awaken. This allows an individual to create a greater depth of experience through elements of more than one season at a time. Learning to identify the Season that you are in, embracing it without judgment, and to fully explore its unique gifts, will allow you to access the grace of the 4 Sacred Seasons of Well Being. For more information on the Seasons of Well Being, check out the Calendar for an upcoming class. *The 4 Sacred Seasons was defined by Dr. Donny Epstein, (founder of the paradigm of Reorganizational Healing and the transformative tools of Network Spinal Analysis and Somato-Respiratory Integration)
Brennan ~ Reconnective
Lisa "Astarte" Stakes, L.M.T.
Subtle Vibrational
NM Lic#7669
EnergyWork & Life-Reading •
Judy Scher, D.C. is Director of the Scher Center in Santa Fe since 1992. She is an international teacher, workshop leader, and keynote speaker. The Scher Center utilizes cutting-edge reorganizational healing tools including Network Spinal Analysis Care. For more info go to www.HealingWithoutLimits.com or call 505-989-9373 Evolving…in SANTA FE
Who is that voice inside, that you identify as You? Come to that stillness within. Your destiny is calling you. You are Consciousness. LYDIA SAFINA ~ 505-699-7796 imnawakened1@aol.com 27 years experience 5
September 2015
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Energy Healer Psychic Massage Therapist Astartehealing.com 505-603-0888 astarteearthart@gmail.com
Herbal Wisdom
Medicinal Honey Come closer With your plum lips Sweet syrup moist on mine What has made your round flesh And juice flow with no bound? Just as the trees hang low With swollen ovaries in summer I fall in heaven to the ground
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hat better way to enjoy the harvest of late summer but to nourish our “sweet-loving” organs? The stomach and spleen, that is. The fruitbearing trees and shrubs have time to ripen their pollinated ovaries into tasty fruit, making the sweet Earth our one Mother. What, we think, can prolong this sensuous season just a bit longer? How can the center of our digestion, our stomach, enjoy the flowers and herbs while keeping us healthy? Herbal honeys are an ageold means to keep food preserved and sweet flavors available from our kitchens. And we can make other seasonal flavors, such as sour and bitter, more palatable. Medicinal and culinary herbs can be preserved in honey rendering them more enticing to both children and sweetloving adults alike. I prefer using honey as a sugar base and will discuss that method here. For other methods of
honey and syrup making you may consider attending our Syrup Making Workshop this fall. The honey and water balance needs to be adequate as to not allow for yeast or mold growth. Honey itself is selfpreserving but once another ingredient is added to it there is potential for bacteria or mold growth. In the case of medicinal honeys, the constituents from botanicals are extracted in sufficient amounts to make them therapeutic in value. A few guidelines are critical to making well-preserved herbal honey: Use clean, sterilized bottles or jars for syrups; follow the same guidelines of heat sterilization as with jelly making. Sterilize the lids as well. I prefer to use no more than a 16 ounce size jar to keep the portions smaller and exposure to air smaller. The lids must fit tightly and the final product stored away from heat and direct light. Slightly lower than room temperature is best.
To Make a Medicinal Honey Choose the fresh herb that you want to infuse such as lemon balm, peppermint, garden sage, or thyme. Chop the herb finely and fill a sterilized jar half way up. Slowly add the honey while filling out the air bubbles from the liquid; put the lid on and slowly shake the jar trying to remove any more air. Add more honey to fill the jar to the
top. Have as little air between the lid and top of honey as possible. Let the infused herb sit for at least 2 weeks in a warm place, then strain out the finished honey through clean cheese cloth. There should be no solid plant matter in the final product. I like to make garden sage honey because it protects the immune system, soothes a sore throat, and assists digestion. You may want to taste the leaves of your chosen herb before using them to make sure they taste fresh. And support your local beekeeper by buying unheated, unfiltered honey from local plants!
Tomas Enos studied with Michael Moore in 1990 and then created Milagro Herbs. Erin Galiger has worked with herbs for 10 years. Their philosophy of health and healing is holistic and rooted in the ancient tradition of “Solar Living,” synchronizing our bodies according to the biological time clock, circadian rhythms, and seasonal patterns found on Earth. www.milagroherbs.com 505820-6321 info@milagroherbs.com 419 Orchard Drive (off Paseo de Peralta next to Kakawa Chocolate House)
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Evolving…in SANTA FE
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September 2015
Heart & Business
BEnergy
Professional Transformation is Gold
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he gravity of how we are willing to transform as leaders within life or business is up to us. We are leaders at home, in the workplace, and out in our everyday experience. Our inner leader has awakened and I'm inviting us to fully tap into it. In order for this to be of benefit it requires transformation. Transformation is change in form, evolution in response, revolution, breaking up patterns, spontaneous shifts of awareness, and deep restructuring. It is the element of heat and fire. Nothing is the same on the other side of transformation. It is an opportunity to become stronger, wiser, and more radiant. We are continually transforming and growing in every minute. Even in the minutia of the day there is opportunity for growth when present. I work with many leaders and one thing is always a constant—opportunity for inner growth (grace) and engagement of strength (courage). To operate from both, grace and courage, is an opportunity to ignite spirit and step into an elevated experience of leadership within life, career, or business. Transformation creates room for growth and growth is opportunity. We are energy through and through and tapping into transformational potential is gold. That's right gold. Imagine who you were when you began your work in the world and who you are now. Has much changed? I hope so! Change is both great and, at times, challenging at best. Change has influence and calls to be focused and committed to the path ahead. This is a sizeable portion on the path to success. So how do you know you're in it? To name a few, professional transformation can look like: • Being called upon with more visual recognition for your wisdom - i.e. public speaking or teaching engagements. • Running for political office in your local area. • Challenge with colleagues, friends, or family members. • Something surfaces fear, worry, or self-doubt. • Your craving solitude to reflect and gain deeper learning's.
• Not craving solitude and yet it has shown up as the only option embrace it! • Circumstances unfolding in such capacity there is no way you could have planned for it - both brilliant and challenging. • Resistance to what has been laid before you. My suggestion when in the midst of transformation: Breathe, don't sweat it and pay attention. When worry takes over there is zero expansion and things will idle or become chaotic. Here is a three step process I learned years ago and has been my go to with strategic planning, creating, and transforming in my business: let-go of tension, live with intension, paired alongside tons of attention and the most abundant path will unfold before you. I am inviting you to step into the river of change, movement, and transformation, the same river that will back up if resisted. Embrace the flow and mystery of strengths, values, and purpose. This is where courage and presence lives and this is where happiness and contentment are generated. To you, all the transforming souls moving forward in the heart of your life and profession,
Karen Harrison, Ed.S.
All of Life comes to me with Ease, Joy & Glory!
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Heather Robertson E-RYT, CTC, CF is an entrepreneur, facilitator, and mentor, with endless commitment to presence and purpose within business and life. She is owner of Wide Awake by Design, located in Santa Fe, NM. Need the more formal version or want to know more: www.wideawakebydesign.com or email info@wideawakebydesign.com
Evolving…in SANTA FE
Are You Ready for This?
Licensed Professional Counselor Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist REIKITeacher Reiki Master
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September 2015
Eating Well in Santa Fe
. . . e v l o v X
Vitality Foods: Gentle Ways to Detox
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Into something beautiful. Santa Fe’s newest resource for holistic living offers online and print options for living well.
www.EvolvingMagazine.com • • • • •
Read current articles from both Santa Fe and Kansas City editions Locate Wellness Practitioners with the Holistic Online Directory Find locations to pick up the print edition, searchable by zip code Free online calendar of events And more!
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ EvolvingSantaFe and follow us on Twitter: @EvolvingMag To stay connected all month!
NEW! Free Online Calendar. Another great resource provided by Evolving Magazine. Feel free to add your events or copy an event you want to attend to your own calendar.
Evolving…in SANTA FE
ummer time is the perfect time to support your health and ignite your vitality through gentle detoxification and cleansing protocols. One of the most important organs to detoxify is the liver: without its optimum function people may experience hormone imbalance, diabetes, chronic fatigue, fatty liver, allergies (food/seasonal), or the inability to lose and maintain a healthy weight. The best time to conduct a liver detoxification protocol is summertime as the liver plays a role in keeping core temperature—thus the winter months will make for a counterproductive time to cleanse the liver. The liver benefits from vegetable juicing, milk thistle, roasted dandelion, burdock, watercress, curly endive, cilantro, parsley, and chlorella. One of the most gentle ways to detox the body is by starting your day with a cup of warm water and two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice; a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar; or a teaspoon of baking soda and half of fresh squeezed lemon juice. You can alternate between these recipes. Starting your morning with a highly-alkalizing water beverage will stimulate and support proper digestion, boost the immune system, hydrate the lymphatic system, support weight management, release of toxins, support urinary track health, and facilitate fat flushing. Another easy way for gentle cleansing is consuming a variety of vegetables and dark leafy greens, this should make up 60 percent (fiber) of your meal, this is one of the most effective ways to cleanse the digestive system on a daily basis. Let’s learn about the difference between cleansing and detoxification. Cleansing means the cleansing of the body through the digestive track, from mouth to anus. Cleansing protocols may include various types of nutritional and herbal protocols. There is a science in knowing how to properly combine vegetables, fruits, herbs, supplements, tinctures, and vegetable juices to stimulate the body for proper cleansing. A cleanse addresses the release of waste matter like intestinal plaque, Candida overgrowth, parasites and harmful bacteria. Detoxifying is the body’s natural process for eliminating toxins from a cellular level, including organs, tissue, and blood stream. Detox protocols target chemicals, smoke, heavy metals, pollutants, calcified stones and even fat deposits that accumulate in the body and could eventually pose a health challenge. Detox protocols work with the kidneys, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, bloodstream, and digestive track. Detoxification protocols may also include juicing vegetables and fruits, herbs, tinctures, hydrotherapy, hot baths, essential oils, and homeopathics. Benefits from detoxification and cleansing include improved digestion, liver detoxification, building blood, boosting the immune system, improving mental clarity and focus, increasing and maintaining energy, improving metabolism, stabilizing 8
September 2015
insulin levels and response, improving sleep, and improving cellular mitochondria (thus increasing oxygen levels—this restores organ function). By cleansing and detoxifying your body you are ensuring a happy, healthy and vibrant life!
Vitality Spring Rolls 1/2 cucumber (thinly sliced) 1/2 cup of shredder carrots and beets 1/2 avocado (sliced length wise) 1/2 cup of sprouts 1 cup of seared salmon (sliced length wise) 1 cup of cooked brown rice 4 seaweed sheets (choose Atlantic sourced seaweed) Seasonings: Sea salt, Tamari gluent-free soy sauce (organic/non-gmo) and garlic aioli brown mustard) Directions: 1. Take a seaweed sheet, place it on a wooden board, place a 1/2 teaspoon of garlic aioli brown mustard to the seaweed, spread it around. 2. Add a tablespoon of rice on one of the edges of the sheet. Press down and spread it lengthwise. 3. Add a few strings of carrots, beets, cucumber to the rice on the seaweed sheet, sprinkle some sea salt and a little of the Tamari sauce. 4. Add the salmon and avocado and with your fingers and hand, slide all the ingredients towards the edge of the sheet and begin to roll the content into a roll. Feel free to dip the roll in a little Tamari soy sauce or your favorite peanut sauce or Serracha spicy sauce. You can add the spring rolls to a Summer Kale Salad, see recipe from June's issue. Bon Appetit!
Valeria Alarcón is a Holistic Health Coach and Advocate AADP, whose mission is to inspire, educate, and empower individuals who are committed to reclaiming life and vitality through health and wellness. As a cancer survivor Val knows what it takes to reclaim life and vitality, and she is delighted to be of support to her community. For more information visit www.VitalityWithVal.us.
Revelations
Somatic Psychology
Willpower Woes: How a Rotten Resolve Can Hurt You
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illpower. We all want it. We all need it. But far too many of us just don’t have what it takes to stay resolute and determined when the going gets tough. I connected with the author of Life Rehab: Don’t Overdose on Pain, People and Power, Kanika Tolver—a Certified Professional Coach and thought leader who helps individuals realize career, business, life, and spiritual success. She offered this simple yet insightful three-step exercise that can help individuals develop better willpower through practice, progression, and patience: 1. Practice:
• Brainstorm all of your weaknesses—as many as you can think of—and write them down. When you identify your weaknesses on paper, it initiates the process of acknowledgement and acceptance. We all have weaknesses, whether it’s procrastination or being a “pushover” and the like, that are undermining our ability to be happy and successful. However, thinking comprehensively about our shortcomings and confessing them on paper produces a cathartic sense of awareness and urgency. While any scrap of paper will do, it’s best to invest in a simple journal where you can keep an ongoing log of your flaws and faults that are likely working against you at work, at home and in social circles. • Cultivate a list of adversaries. As with your list of weaknesses above that related to your own personality and character traits, it’s also advisable to identify those people and other aspects of your life that challenge your willpower. This can include specific people in your professional and personal life, your job itself, or things like food, alcohol, television, the gym, etc. Keep a running log of these as well so that you remain mindful of exactly what aspects of life you seek to improve. Even try to put this list from most to least important or impactful, with the areas you need the most work on, and that will impact your life most significantly, at the top. • Set small, achievable goals for turning your weaknesses into strengths. For each weakness, set small incremental goals. Setting unrealistic goals can lead to disappointment, which often leads to self-sabotage and self-doubt—all of which undercut your efforts to develop stronger willpower. Most of us have spent years repeating a bad habit or suffering a bad relationship. With this exercise, it’s now time to make a conscious choice to make small changes to negate the damage done. A collection of successful small changes will likely lead to big changes, which can lead to life changing transformations. Reward yourself for even the smallest of victories along the journey. Revel in each achievement, however tiny. 2. Progression:
• Now that you are aware of what about yourself you need to “fix” and in what circumstances, journal your daily progress—both wins, losses and challenges—and your feelings in relation to each. Over time, you will be able to analyze the “data” and discern patterns, including where you fell short, in what circumstances you remained steadfast, and what made you uncomfortable (and which way that ultimately swung). This will expose ways to better apply willpower and manage situations to your benefit. Progression requires transparent hard work and constant self-evaluation. But the prospective payoff is immense. • Surround yourself with people who have experience and overcame the same struggles you have. Associating with people who can give you good, proven advice that can be validated with personal anecdotes and insights is priceless. One great strategy is to find an “accountability partner,” support group, mentor or professional coach who can provide valuable objective perspectives and help guide and advise you when challenges present. 3. Patience:
• Patience is indeed a virtue because all too few of us have it. But, if you can effectively exercise patience, it can vastly strengthen your willpower. In fact, the two are entirely intertwined. We are a culture of instant gratification, and when the universe does not deliver immediately we tend to get disappointed, which can lead to a “giving up” or “giving in” mentality—either of which are the enemies of willpower. Merilee Kern, MBA, is Executive Editor of The Luxe List International News Syndicate, accomplished entrepreneur, award-winning author and APP developer and influential media voice. She may be reached online at www.TheLuxeList.com. Follow her on Twitter here: www.Twitter.com/LuxeListEditor and Facebook here: www.Facebook.com/TheLuxeList. Evolving…in SANTA FE
Energetic Grounding for Enhanced Health and Well-Being
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he human body, comprised of more of the following anchoring supports nearly 70 percent water, is an into your day: excellent conductor of energy. Meditation and visualization: Place People who have been struck by both feet on the ground, inhale, allowing lightning or who have experienced electric the energy to move up from the Earth shock can attest to the dynamic power of through the right foot and up the right side electricity to flow through the body in its of the body. On the exhale, envision the attempts to ground and discharge. As a energy flowing down the left side of the safety measure, electrical appliances body, out the left foot, returning to the include ground wires and other conductors Earth. to ground erratic or leaking energy, SpendTime in Nature: Whether thereby reducing the risk of shock or walking on the beach, swimming in the electrocution. Our bodies, ocean, or hiking in the “When we consciously mountains, our interactions as electrical entities, also benefit from grounding. ground our energy, we are with nature positively When we consciously impact our emotions and re actively connected to the -orient us to the here and ground our energy, we are actively connected to the Walking barefoot Earth and to our bodies. now. Earth and to our bodies. outdoors, also known as ” From this anchored state, “earthing”, has been shown we are able to live with to decrease chronic stress, increased mindfulness, embodying the inflammation, pain, poor sleep, and “now”, as opposed to living at the mercy of autonomic nervous system dysfunction. thoughts based in the past and/or future. Mindful Bodywork: The healing arts Holistic health practitioners have long can help bring us into relationship with our recognized the importance of grounding bodies through the mirror of another’s one’s energy for optimal health and welleducated touch. Bodyworkers trained in being. Multiple tools can assist in mindfulness and visualization can assist in grounding, including meditation and the release of muscle tension and visualization, spending time in nature, and emotional blockages while providing mindful-based bodywork. Used alone or in gentle, experiential coaching to expand combination, these techniques assist us to one’s breath, and ground the energy so that “land” in our bodies and our experiences, we may more fully inhabit our bodies. consciously anchoring us to the Earth and Integrating daily grounding techniques her infinite wisdom. As we enter into a into our lives provides a conduit to deeper state of groundedness, we are more effectively anchor into the inherent present, focused, and dynamic. Our minds intelligence of our bodies and the Earth. become increasingly attentive, our vision When we operate from a place of more clear, and our personal boundaries groundedness, we are more present, more become fortified. As anchored beings, we focused, and more fully equipped to are able to stand on our own two feet and navigate modern life challenges. move forward in our lives with confidence and clarity. Yet, to be grounded runs counter to the manner in which most of us conduct our lives. Living in a modernized world, we navigate high-stress environments that require juggling multiple roles and responsibilities. Frequently, we live in our heads, negotiating multiple demands, often to the exclusion of our bodies. As we become increasingly ungrounded, our Corine Frankland, Ph.D., is the thinking becomes clouded with dreaminess department chair of liberal arts at or confusion, impeding our ability to focus Santa Fe University of Art and our thoughts and attention. Repetitive, fear Design, where she teaches courses -based thoughts may consume much of our in women’s psychology, archetypal energy. Our bodies may present physical psychology, and Kundalini symptoms such as headaches, muscle yoga. She is also a somatic polarity spasms, excessive perspiration, difficulties practitioner, specializing in anxiety with breathing or digesting, or abnormal reduction, grief and depression, heart rates. Indeed, in this state, many of and women’s reproductive health us look like “live wires”, spinning out of and wellness. You can find her on control, in desperate need of grounding. Facebook at Vibrational Healing When you find yourself feeling Santa Fe or visit her website at ungrounded, consider incorporating one or www.myvibrationalhealing.org 9
September 2015
Wanderlust
Train Travel: A Leisurely Pace
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ife on the train is sleepy; it’s a casual pace that allows for reflection and connection to others. This unrushed pace provides a luxury I rarely enjoy—my biggest choice being whether I lay curled in my seat, gazing out the window, or go to the observation car and meet other travelers. I enjoy both options, but for hours I choose to be alone with the scenery. For a precious amount of time, I’m not thinking about where I’m going, but where I am. Here. Now. I doze. I watch. I feel calm, a nothingness that I don’t allow myself often while at home. The gentle rocking lulls me and I doze again. Sitting in the observation car–passing the day as the miles roll along–the light from the windows warms and invigorates, like traveling in a rolling sun room. The view from the train takes me back to my childhood where I would stack pillows in the back seat on long car rides and settle in to watch the scenery pass. While we sit together, yet separate in the observation car, the landscape isn’t the only interesting scenery. I watch a woman entertained by her tablet as she researches her destination. A couple across the aisle recline in their chairs and doze in the sunshine. Others gaze out the window and I wonder, watching them, what they are thinking. I imagine each passenger gaining insight, warmth, creativity, and even peace from the passing view. Then after a sleepy period, breaking from the hypnotic gaze of the view, people begin to speak. It’s easier to talk to people on the train. Perhaps it’s the close quarters, the feeling of having something in common, or maybe it’s just the slow pace that allows humans to stop, notice each other, and connect. Unlike air travel that can feel scary, rushed, and leave you tired and violated, rail travel is the epitome of a leisurely pace. No rush. No hurry. There is friendliness, an openness you don’t usually find anywhere else. Cities, buses, shopping malls: in these places we are separate, on guard, and do not make eye contact, let alone connect. How embarrassing to start asking private questions of a total stranger! But on the
train it is different. We are a unique tribe, sometimes our only similarity being the spirit of adventure we all share. You think of yesteryear’s hobos riding the rails and can feel that same excitement but without the dangers. Instead, you feel the rush of adventure, but are soothed by the frills of sleeper cabins, warm sunlight, and the nicety of a dining car. Train people love to share their stories: Where are you from? Where are you going? While everyone is friendly and quick to say hello and start a conversation, they’re also comfortable co-existing, separately yet together–not always an easy task. Humans like their space, their anonymity, their privacy during, well, private acts like sleeping. Yet, somehow, on the train, it is natural to allow each other privacy during not-so-private times and to be comfortable amidst an un-chosen community. Each of us are from different backgrounds, locations, and viewpoints; but on the train, these differences, this diversity, is what makes us each so fascinating–and our differences become cause for celebration rather than fear.
Scenery in West Virginia.
Jill Dutton is publisher of Evolving magazine. She is traveling via Amtrak writing feature articles and an eventual book, Wanderlust: A Woman’s Guide to the USA by Rail. Follow Jill’s travels at www.jilldutton.wordpress.com. The view approaching New Orleans.
Diners enjoying company and a meal in the dining car.
Travelers in the observation car, watching the scenery pass. Evolving…in SANTA FE
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Feature
Living Proof BY DENISE PALMISANO, CHPC “We can never obtain peace in the outer skills or substantial world until we make peace with ourselves.” work experience brought up issues ~Dalai Lama that I had never ife in the outer world appeared to be faced before. picture perfect. I was married, had a Suddenly I was single, alone, beautiful daughter, all the money I working for needed, great friends, a loving minimum wage and family and a beautiful home. I was also living in low income housing. My teenage worn out, unhappy, resentful, depressed, daughter was out of control and my friends lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. I and family had their own situations to no longer had the energy to pretend I was manage. It was a very dark place even living the life of my dreams. My inner though I was the one that designed the world was starving for connection, joy, interruption in my fairytale life. freedom and confidence. I chose to Many nights of either crying or drinking confront my life exactly as it was and I told my truth. I was no longer willing to pretend myself to sleep, I felt defeated, scattered, afraid, broken and unclear about what to it was okay to do what others needed and do next. In a matter of months I had traded wanted me to do to make them happy. one nightmare for another. I got involved with personal “Keep your dreams alive. Understand to development workshops. I discovered I was achieve anything requires faith and belief not alone. I learned that while I couldn’t in yourself, vision, hard work, control every life situation, nor the people determination, and dedication. Remember in them, I still had choices. I revealed all things are possible for those who several blind spots that were keeping me stuck. I had given up my authentic voice in believe.” ~Gail Devers exchange for the approval of others and the Nowhere else to turn, I continued to need to belong. I felt peace in the knowing that it didn’t dive into personal growth workshops, books and groups. I had a hunger for have to be this way. I learned about anything that could offer me ideas, effective communication, authenticity, suggestions and education about how to factoring my longings into the equation turn things around. Those and having a plan to teachings spoke of acceptance, reach a desired reinventing interpretations of outcome. I set out situations, clarity of vision, on a mission to recreating a plan of action and invent myself, my following through on my relationships and commitments to myself. I had my life. Happiness to put myself first. emerged the I created vision boards, set moment I took goals, learned marketable skills responsibility and and did the best I could at any given time. started taking action. “We grow because we struggle, we learn Over the next fifteen years there were more career changes, short term relationships and overcome.” and several moves that created the ~Robert C. Allen constant need to reinvent myself. It seemed Armed with a renewed sense of self, I expected the journey to be steadily moving as though change was constant and I was getting a lot of practice with my new tools forward in alignment with the life I and resources. envisioned. It was a brief high. The stark reality of not having many marketable
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“We grow because we struggle, we learn and overcome.” ~Robert C. Allen
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My health and finances were screaming for my attention. I was then diagnosed with Hepatitis C and back then, all available treatment was in the research and development stage. My insurance plan did not cover experimental drugs. I had just moved into a new house with a huge mortgage. Prior to the diagnosis, it was an affordable investment. The out of pocket financial burden took its toll. My friends rallied and donated to my medical expenses however it wasn’t enough to cover the year-long treatment plan. I missed a lot of work and in the end, I had to sell my house. The good news was, my body did respond to the treatments and no visible sustained activity was present. The bad news was I had accumulated enormous debt. A bright spot in the process was that soon after my treatments were complete I became engaged. In preparation for the marriage and move out of state, I gave notice at work, got rid of my furniture and sold my car. The plan was unfolding. I had secured a job and had another car waiting for me. Joy came to a screeching halt when my fiancee’ called off our wedding. That was one of the lowest points in my life. In my numbness, I picked myself up and started over. “A new way of thinking has become the necessary condition for responsible living and acting. If we maintain obsolete values and beliefs, a fragmented consciousness and self-centered spirit, we will continue to hold onto outdated goals and behaviors.” ~Dalai Lama In 2005, additional personal and business loss with Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The hits kept coming yet I met each 11
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situation with acceptance and self-trust. I had developed a connection so deep with my inner truth that I no longer feared what would come next. I learned whether change comes into my life as imposed or designed, I am still at choice with how I respond to it. Today I am happy, healthy, successful, engaged and deeply connected to myself and others. I have everything I need within me to turn any situation around. “Happiness is not something readymade. It comes from your own actions.” ~Dalai Lama I am living proof that you have the power to reinvent yourself moment by moment to create a life you love regardless of your life situations.
Denise empowers and inspires people to reclaim their authenticity, wholeness and potential moment by moment. Her motto is, “You Have Everything You Need to Handle Whatever Comes Up”. Learn more about Denise and her work at www.empoweringpotential.com or call (985) 860-8861.
Feature
Sally’s Secrets: How to be Happy with a Challenge Called Parkinson’s Disease
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movement, speaking and the shakes made known by PD, both internal and external. The symptoms are unique to each person. Sally has avoided some common symptoms such as imbalance, anxiety and depression, loss of memory, and/or hallucinations or use of a cane or wheel chair. “I’m blessed all my life with a disposition to look at things on the bright side,” Sally said. “I’m drawn to the light like a bird to a garden.” Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s disease has poured over 14 million dollars into research since 2000 yet scientists do not know the cause yet. Diagnosis most often occurs around age 60 with only as few as 7% suffering early onset such as Fox when he was diagnosed at age 30 in 1991. As many as one million Americans live with PD, (Parkinson’s Foundation 2015 website) which is more than the combined number of people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy and Lou Gehrig’s disease. Statistics claim approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with PD each year and a 1000’s of cases remain undetected. Worldwide, the number climbs to 10 million. “Of course my original diagnosis in 1995 was a blow.” Sally said. “I didn’t want my family feeling sorry for me so I got busy.” At that time two of her teenagers were living at home and the two older ones were in college. “They were frightened for me. I didn’t want them to worry or feel sad for me.” Sally always enjoyed a healthy diet. “I just ate what I knew was good for me for Sally Sweeney doing the waterfall pose to ease fatigue, depression and both of my health quiet the brain. and my liking,”
ally Sweeney glazes a ham for her evening company. She moves as graceful as a dancer in the kitchen she designed. She shows me the honey-comb spice holder where one may read the label face up of every spice and herb. “I love this glaze,” she said. She paints on the ginger ale, clove, and mustard glaze as aromas of sweet and salty fill the room. It’s late on a Friday afternoon as we begin our interview on how she has managed Parkinson’s disease for 20 years. “TGIF!” she announced. “Let’s split a bottle of beer, shall we?” “I don’t know why I drink this premium beer!” Sally said. “PD weakened my taste buds.” I sip my micro brew with its tangy flavor as she laughs at her own joke. “My guests and family enjoy it and that makes me happy.” This degenerative disease that affects Sally and the famous actor Michael J. Fox results from the death of neurons in the brain that produce dopamine. Insufficient amounts of this neurotransmitter may create challenges with balance, breathing,
Evolving…in SANTA FE
she said. She walked daily. She found acupuncture, massage therapy, joined the PD support group. She founded her own business designing kitchens and baths. “I was no longer willing to wait in a show room for customers to find me,” she said. “So I found them.” Her business flourished. “I am afraid of depression,” she shared, “So I do not allow myself to get too low. I think of all the things in my life which are so great and gratitude lifts me up. I’ll think of something I enjoy doing even a Sudoku puzzle or I draw a picture. I keep my mind focused.” In 2006, Sally joined Kansas University’s first study on yoga’s effect upon Parkinson’s disease. She underwent physical exams, including blood samples, required for the study. “Yoga was my winning ticket!” Sally said. “My symptoms minimized as I enjoyed two classes a week. The Yoga School of Therapeutics teamed up with KU Med to lead yoga designed to ease symptoms. Participants practiced balance poses along with techniques to induce parasympathetic state (non flight or fight) claimed to help the brain release dopamine. The published study revealed that participants improved range of motion, strength, posture, gait, balance, depression and quality of life scales, pulmonary function tests as well as improvement in vital signs and serum immune markers. Down-to-earth Sally and her husband, Mike, built their lake house in Bonner Springs, Ks. just after her diagnosis. All halls and doors were built wide enough to meet handicap code. This home is on the market. They recently moved to a new home in order to be closer to the children and shorter drives for Sally’s weekly routines. Sally sits tall in her red wing chair, chest lifted and shoulders square. Her figure is sleek. Her eyes sparkle. Her gait has slowed on her daily walks, yet she cooks, she cleans, she draws, and she spends time with her grandchildren. Her face glows with that patina of someone who is alive and vibrant. Sally hands me an article from WEB MD. I read a quote from Angus Nairin, PhD, a researcher at Yale University who writes “We are getting closer to understanding PD. Our aim is to discover
BY SUZETTE SCHOLTES biomarkers to identify the illness earlier and find out how stem cells may be taught to be dopamine producing. Clinical trials are underway now for methods to slow or stop PD.” “We must never lose hope,” Sally said in a strong voice.” I believe I can do anything I want at my own pace.” Sally shared her secrets. 1. Believe you can find a way. 2. Never give up. 3. Learn meditation and yoga to foster strength and courage. 4. Recognize your limitations but do not allow them to define you. 5. Avoid arguing with the universe. 6. Accept what cannot be changed. 7. Each day seek peace. “You know, Sally said, quoting Abraham Lincoln’s famous line, “Most people are as happy as they make up their minds to be.” “This is my life. It is the only life I have. For me, this means worry or fear are a waste of my time. Now, how about a taste of my yummy ham?” She smiled as we made our way back to the kitchen.
“We must never lose hope,” Sally said in a strong voice.” I believe I can do anything I want at my own pace.”
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Suzette Scholtes’ non-fiction writing won the prestigious “Writers Digest” award. Her passions are writing and yoga and she feels one needs a sense of humor for both. She founded The Yoga School of Therapeutics where she manages one of the region’s prestige teacher training programs. 10400 W. 103rd Street, Overland Park. www.theyogastudio.com news@theyogastudio.com 913 492-9594.
Feature
Nothing Unnecessary Excerpt from Nothing Left Over By Toinette Lippe
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ome years ago I was invited to attend arrangement around them. It pointed out that many people buy a three-piece suite a conference on inner science at simply because they believe it is the thing which His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama spoke. I listened to him to do. But how many people actually sit on a sofa at any given time? Usually one. elucidating Buddhist dialectics for three People feel a little crowded if they have to days and was for the most part unable to share a sofa with someone else. So in my understand the content or direction of his living room I have two small love seats argument; however, I soon became aware rather than one big sofa. Love seats are that his actual teaching—at least for me— was going on at another level. I noticed that more intimate and more practical. I like to put my legs up when I read, so I have love whatever he did or said, he did with his seats with firm, straight backs to support whole being—whether it was laughing, talking, or just resting. Part of him was not me, and when I have guests, I encourage them to take their shoes off and put their doing something else. He was completely legs up just the way I do. concentrated in the moment, and the What each person needs in a particular power of his unsplintered attention was room of the house will differ, but the trick electrifying. Not only was all his attention is not to take into that room anything that given to whatever he chose, but mine was isn’ t really necessary. “Necessary” will, of also. Since he was not distracted, neither course, include beautiful things and not was I. I left the conference in some amazement, never before (or since) having just useful ones, but the fewer of (each of) these there are, the better. Avoid clutter of met anyone who appeared able to focus in all kinds. this way. This teaching was a tremendous All this talk of what is unnecessary gift. raises the question: What is necessary? A Nowadays people tend to look for very big question. I once gave a talk to the distraction, any distraction that will take their mind off whatever they don’ t want to twelfth grade of my son’s school, and the think about. This tends to take the form of teacher who introduced me asked how I would describe the kind of books I “entertainment.” People will do almost anything in order to avoid being where they published. “Necessary books,” I replied. “ I have to believe that the world really needs a are, doing whatever it is that needs to be book before I will take it on.” This caused done. Sometimes they are seduced (by him to ask me to write an essay for the themselves) into thinking that whatever school magazine on “ What Constitutes a anyone else is doing is bound to be more Necessary Book?” interesting than what they are doing. This At the time assumes many I guises, but all of “Asking yourself what is truly necessary can (1985), consulted my them make us restless and make an enormous difference in your life. ” dictionary and discontent, discovered unable to settle that down to what we necessary was really need to do, defined as “needed for the continuing and usually unable to enjoy it. existence or functioning of something; There is one small rule that can be of essential; indispensable,” and to those enormous benefit to us, not only when we definitions I added “useful; a tool.” On are engaged in work but also throughout our lives, and it is this: Do and say nothing reflection, I realized that what I try to do is supply readers with something vital to unnecessary. In order to observe this rule, we need to remain in the present or we will body, mind, or heart, and what I see as my not be able to tell if something is necessary, function is to supply this something in its most appropriate form to all those who so right from the start it can be seen that this is a useful thing to do. This maxim also really need it. When someone picks up a book, the title and subtitle, the color and implies that we will do whatever is design of the jacket, the copy on the flaps, necessary to accomplish the task at hand, the choice of typeface and interior design, while giving up what is not germane. One of the places where it is important the paper, and the binding should all inform the prospective reader of the writer’ to recognize what is necessary and what s intent. I believe that the physical aspect of isn’t is in our own homes. I remember each book should be a reflection of reading a proposal for a book about this everything that is within it. Because I am many, many years ago. It suggested that writing this in 2001, I must add one more you sit down and make a list of the things thing: In publishing during the 1980s all that you actually do at home most of the you had to do was produce the book and time and then plan your furniture and its Evolving…in SANTA FE
float it out into the bookstores where it would find a ready audience. Now that so many more books are published each year by companies large and small and even by individuals, it is no longer enough to manufacture books; you also have to find a way of bringing them to the attention of customers, which is a much more difficult proposition. But if you cannot do this, your books will have no chance in the marketplace, and all your effort will have been for naught. The principle behind all this is not to waste precious energy where it is not needed. We do tend to fritter it away if we are not aware of what we are doing. Sometimes this takes the form of a nervous tapping of the foot or drumming of the fingers. I notice that television cameras often focus on people’s hands and what they are doing while they are making speeches or testifying, so I am not the only person who has spotted this. I catch myself walking down the street with my hands clasped in front of me. Usually I am walking in order to get some exercise, and the best way to achieve this is not to restrict the body in any way. Let the arms swing. I don’ t know how I started this unfortunate habit, which creates tension rather than relaxation and has the opposite effect from the one I am hoping for, but perhaps by keeping an eye on it now, I will be able to let go enough to just walk and not clutch. There is one thing I must record here because it was the impetus for this book: When Joel suggested that I write this book, I asked him what would be in it, and he said, “ Well, when you go to make yourself a cup of tea, you just boil one cup of water.” “Doesn’ t everyone?” I responded. “Of course not,” he said. “ Well, then, they are wasting not only water but time and energy too.” He smiled and nodded. Since then I have spoken to quite a few people about this. It turns out that I am not the only 13
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person who fills the kettle with exactly the amount of water I need, but there are enough people who have never even given it a thought for me to tuck this advice into the book. Small note: It’ s not that I measure the water in the kettle exactly, but from years of experience I know how heavy the kettle feels when it has enough water in it for one person. Asking yourself what is truly necessary can make an enormous difference in your life. Ask it in all kinds of circumstances— when you are tempted to criticize or gossip but also when whoever you are with is silently crying out for something and you are not noticing it because you are filled with your own thoughts.
Born in London, Toinette Lippe had a long and distinguished career at Alfred A. Knopf. In 1989 she founded Bell Tower, where she published seventy books that nourished the soul, illuminated the mind, and spoke directly to the heart. Her second book, Caught in the Act: Reflections on Being, Knowing, and Doing was published in 2004. After fifty years in publishing Toinette abandoned editorial work and devotes herself to East Asian brush painting, which she taught at the Educational Alliance for four years and now teaches on the Upper West Side of New York City. See toinettelippe.com.
Spiritual Horoscope
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)
September 2015 Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) Happy birthday Virgo! Energetic Mars moves into your sign, giving courage and optimism to take empowering actions. Meditation gives breakthrough ideas that help with longstanding family or childhood issues. You’ll intuitively know what to do to heal. Relationships improve since you’re in the present and released past baggage. Enjoy feeling happy!
Saturn into Sagittarius strengthens decision-making! You’ll feel clear and able to set goals and prioritize actions. Please meditate to let go of old disappointments and anger (usually unexpressed and buried). These feelings created negative beliefs that sabotage progress and happiness. Forgiving and letting them go frees you for success and joy!
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)
someone, and of potential rejection. negative thoughts, because they are not (Yikes!) This inner work takes stress off funny! You’re awesome and deserve love! current connections, and opens the door to new ones if single. As your heart opens, Cancer (June 21 – July 22) you’ll also attract new friends and activities You take care of everyone, but often not that are meaningful and fun! yourself! Saturn changes signs for a nearly three year stay in Sagittarius, asking you to Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) prioritize your needs and become sacred to Your career is beginning a 30 year yourself. You’ll build physical and spiritual highpoint! In order to receive all you power by eating well, sleeping enough and deserve, meditate on old fears and following through with stress reduction perceived limitations from childhood —and (meditation, yoga, affirmations). People also from over the past 15 years. Have your will benefit much more from your support spouse or a trusted friend give you “reality — plus, you’ll discern if they’re ready for checks” about the uselessness of those icky help, and how exact to lend a hand. You’ll beliefs! You’ve worked hard to get to this have more joy in your marriage, or start a point, so open up to the acclaim and new bond if single! financial rewards!
Intuition and inner guidance is incredible this month, so meditate each day to strengthen that inner connection! Mercury retrograde and the total eclipse give you insight into health issues, work challenges and ways you sabotage financial stability or interpersonal relationships. You’ll be relieved to have these clues. Life gets better Aries (March 21 – April 19) fast as you apply the spiritual guidance you The lunar eclipse late this month gives the courage to start an exciting business, a new receive! relationship, or both! If partnered, your bond will deepen and you’ll feel like you’re learning new things about each other. Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) You’re so intuitive, but it is random. Make Saturn enters your sign for a two and a half your guidance steady by meditating each year stay. You’ll be able to get focused on important life goals. You’ll be able to make day. See it as a business conference with a wise mentor. You’ll be unstoppable if you commitments that galvanize change in your life! (It’s hard for the Universe to give listen and take the mentor’s advise! you what you want when you keep waffling!) This month you can have an Taurus (April 20 – May 20) exciting promotion or begin a new project. Saturn changes signs bringing you lessons Relationships are smoother if you meditate about financial, emotional and sexual together (or even if only you do!) intimacy. You’ll learn how to bond deeper
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) As Pluto moves direct in your sign, you’re able to get off your own case! The internalized pressure you often feels changes from pessimism to empowered optimism. You’ll have exciting work opportunities that you had given up on. You’ll also feel spiritually ignited, so begin yoga classes or a meditation practice. Your intuition strengthens and increases your sense of safety and belonging!
by releasing past experiences of betrayal. Mediation and forgiveness opens you to new joy — and also to radiant health! Even food addictions fall away as you dig up and release old anger. Make a spiritual commitment, like weekly yoga, or attending a church/temple to remain centered and feel connected to the Universe!
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Relationships deepen and you can make a commitment to someone! Let go of fear by writing about past hurts, whether Aquarius represents the tension between relationship or family, so you’re open to the being an individual and being intimate. present! Mercury is retrograde, so don’t This month you’ll notice this in sexual creating distance by fighting about trivial relationships or attitudes. Meditate on fears of blending with a partner, of needing misunderstandings. Also, watch snarky self -deprecating humor. Throw out those
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)
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Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) Meditation gives deep guidance this month, with the eclipse and Mercury retrograde. Wise inner guidance comes through and shows you how to create more joy, better bonds with kids and how to rekindle sexiness in long-term relationships. You’ll see the blocks happiness and remove them! Health-wise check out elimination diets and to find a cause of low energy so you can boot that substance out too!
Aluna Michaels is a secondgeneration astrologer and soul evolutionist practitioner. She also holds a Masters in Spiritual Counseling and has been teaching and consulting for more than three decades. Her book “Spiritual Gifts of the 12 Astrological Signs” is now on Amazon in Kindle version and as an E-book on her website. Aluna is available for appointments in her home, by phone or Skype. Call (727) 239-7179 or visit www.alunamichaels.com
NUMEROLOGY
Resource Directory
John Holmes, Numerologist Confirm your Pre-Intended Life Story. Three-part reading, two-hour consultation by phone or in my Santa Fe office. Contact John with inquiries or to schedule a reading: jrholmes@gmx.com or call 505-466-4297.
ALTERNATIVE HEALING New Mexico Hypnotherapy helps you reach your goals, remove blockages to growth, and resolve limiting beliefs. From body image to clearing traumas and phobias to growing younger to natal and past-life regressions, we help people improve their life experience by understanding themselves. NewMexicoHypnotherapy.com.
SELF CARE Beth Budesheim, Artist, LMT, RN, ATP® Your Goddess Energy Portrait™, therapeutic massage and energy medicine, chakra work, Art Rituals™, paintings. www.BethBudesheim.com
COACHING LIBIDO COACHING. Somatic coaching for people who wish to change/expand the relationship with their body/intimacy/sexuality. Isa Magdalena has taught conscious sexuality since '92, in the US and Europe. Her book is called A Map of Full Spectrum Sex. http://isamagdalena.com.
SKIN CARE Sharon’s Skin Care "Give me beauty in the inward soul; and may the inner and the outer be as one." — Socrates ~ Contact Sharon Fernandes at 505-983-7470.
EDUCATION Southwestern College/New Earth Institute: Consciousness-Centered Graduate School for Counseling and Art Therapy 3960 San Felipe Road, Santa Fe, NM 87507 toll free: 877-471-5756 direct: 505-471-5756 email: info@swc.edu
SPIRITUALITY Heart of the Mother Healing by Gwendolyn Hill Individual spiritual sessions and classes on ascension topics both remotely via teleseminars and in person in Albuquerque, NM. For more information: http://gwendolynhill.com, 505-864-4084, gwendolyn@gwendolynhill.com.
METAPHYSICS Natural Kingdoms Oracle Readings by Gale Litvak Thurs., Fri. and most Sat. afternoons, noon-4 p.m. In a sacred space of nature’s energies, receive support for areas of concern in your life. Sugg. donation: $20/15 minutes. Drop-ins welcome. 505-984-8009. Hillside, 86 Old Las Vegas Highway, Santa Fe. www.santafehillside.com.
Unity Santa Fe is a welcoming Interspiritual Community that offers practical tools for a healthy, abundant life. Sunday Service at 10:30 a.m., variety of classes and workshops. www.unitysantafe.org 1212 Unity Way, Santa Fe 87506. 505-989-4433
Events AUGUST 19-SEPTEMBER 23 GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP Wednesdays from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Honoring All Types of Loss. Offering Support, Information, Community, and Hope. Free of Charge.Open to the Community Ages 15 and Older. Drop-ins Welcome. Illumination Counseling Services, 1010 Marquez Place, Bldg D, Santa Fe, NM 87505 (Marquez Lofts across from Trader Joe’s)318-267-9753 for more information SEPTEMBER 9 MINDFULNESS & IMPERMANENCE 6-7:45 pm, La Farge library, 1730 Llano St. Free. Come for the whole time or drop in. 505 221 0401 SEPTEMBER 11-12 JOHN OF GOD: HEALING MIRACLES Explore the life of John of God a Brazilian man who has miraculously healed tens of thousands of people over the past 50 years. John of God is a full trance medium used by spirit Beings of Light to heal every imaginable disease and affliction and at no cost. Oprah visited him and did three programs about him. Slide show film, talks, sitting in the healing current. Friday, September 11, 7PM and Saturday, September 12, 10AM until 4PM at Santa Fe Soul Center, 2905 Rodeo Park Drive E #3. This retreat is free but seating is limited so pre-registration is required. Register at www.johnofgodboulder.com
SEPTEMBER 12 VITALITY FOODS: WHAT'S ON YOUR FORK? From 11am To 12pm Where: UNM Center For Life, 4700 Jefferson Street Northeast, Albuquerque, NM 87109. Val Alarcón, Holistic Health Coach, Educator and Advocate, AADP will provide an educational and interactive workshop on how to eat for energy based on your bio-individual nutritional profile and how primary and secondary foods are essential to your continued health and wellness. For more information visit www.VitalityWithVal.us. SEPTEMBER 13 VITALITY FOODS: GENTLE WAYS TO DETOX 2pm To 3pm at UNM Center For Life, 4700 Jefferson Street Northeast, Albuquerque, NM 87109. Val Alarcón, Holistic Health Coach, Educator and Advocate, AADP will share how spring and summer time is the perfect time to detox your body for improved health and an overall sense of wellness. In this workshop you will learn about the various detox protocols, from simple and gentle, yet effective ways to detox daily. For more information visit www.VitalityWithVal.us. SEPTEMBER 15 LOCAL PLANT WALK IN SANTA FE 10:00am-12:00pm Stefan Link will lead a herb walk in Santa Fe. Learn about the uses of our
Evolving…in SANTA FE
local plants for food and medicine and how to identify them. Cost: $20 Milagro Herbs, 419 Orchard Drive (next to Kakawa Chocolate House on Paseo de Peralta), Santa Fe. Register: 505-820-6321 SEPTEMBER18 & 20 CRYSTAL SINGING BOWL MEDITATIONS WITH SUSAN PROUT (see news item on page 4), 7pm both days. Art Shack 2833 State Hwy 14, Madrid, NM, 25 miles south of Santa Fe 505.660.2923 sabineh49@gmail.com SEPTEMBER 19 UNVEILING SEXUALITY WITH ISA MAGDALENA This presentation shows sexuality and intimacy from the perspective of ancient eastern as well as modern western science. We will cover the relationship of Sex and Spirit, Safety and Stress, Lust and Love, Power and Prayer, Sensuality and Creativity, to name a few. A few simple tools will deepen your experience. This is an event for all genders. Please reserve your space, spiral@newmex.com. $15 pp. More information http://isamagdalena.com. SEPTEMBER19 & 20 ANGEL PORTRAITS WITH SUSAN PROUT 11-5 both days (see news announcement on page 4) Silver Day Trading Co. (see ad on page 2) 2876 State Hwy 14, Madrid, NM, 25 miles
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south of Santa Fe. 505.570.0537 silverdayturquoise@gmail.com SEPTEMBER 19 & 24 HERBAL COUGH SYRUP MAKING CLASS (2-part class) September 19 10am-2pm, September 24 6-9pm Stephan Link will lead this two part class. Part one includes a field excursion to collect several herbs and return to begin the cough syrup process. In Part two, we finish by decanting and bottling the syrup to take home. Cost: $45 Milagro Herbs, 419 Orchard Drive (next to Kakawa Chocolate House on Paseo de Peralta), Santa Fe. Register: 505-820-6321 OCTOBER 3 & 4 CREATE YOUR LIFE AS IF BY MAGIC Join internationally acclaimed Glenyce Hughes for a workshop designed to empower you to open the doorways to infinite possibilities and create a life beyond your wildest dreams. Santa Fe, New Mexico www.glenyce.net/create-yourlife-as-if-by-magic/ ONGOING HATHA SOUL YOGA Join Heather Robertson in her Hatha Soul Yoga class to awaken your inner strength for less stress and more freedom. WideAwakebyDesign.com for more details.
... Into something beautiful. Santa Fe’s newest resource for holistic living offers online and print options for living well.
www.EvolvingMagazine.com NEW! Free Online Calendar. Another great resource provided by Evolving Magazine. Feel free to add your events or copy an event you want to attend to your own calendar.
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Read current articles from both Santa Fe and Kansas City editions Locate Wellness Practitioners with the Holistic Online Directory Find locations to pick up the print edition, searchable by zip code And more!
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