Issue 17 | Face the Current

Transformation Edition

Issue 17

March 2018

fAce the current TRAVEL

|

CULTURE

HOW TO TUNE INTO & FOLLOW INTUITION TO REINVENT YOUR LIFE HOW TRAVEL TRANSFORMS US INTO CITIZENS OF THE WORLD

|

MUSIC

|

SPORTS & FITNESS

|

HEALTH

HARMONIZE YOUR BODY & MIND WITH CRYSTALS,MUSIC & MINDFUL EATING ALTER YOUR LIFE FROM FEAR BASED TO LOVE BASED REALITY

THE INSTITUTE FOR TRANSFORMATIONAL THINKING ...inspiring positive change in the world Global Visionary Leaders Aim To Revolutionize Thought

EDITORIAL

F tC fAce the current

editorial

Issue 17 · March 2018

Connect With Us... @facethecurrent @facethecurrent @facethecurrent @facethecurrent

In the Beginning Face the Current was created with the intention to inspire positive change in the world and enhance lives by encouraging one another to relentlessly discover, explore, question and learn from current and emerging information and perspectives. Driven by a deep-rooted love of learning, creative minds and a great appreciation for connection with other individuals who are passionate about what they do, Face the Current has quickly developed into a growing team and global community of incredible people who believe in living life to the fullest and discovering their true potential.

“I find it inspiring to connect with others who are following their flow, pursuing and exploring their passions. Their energy is vibrant & contagious and there is often a lot of incredible things to learn from their life experience and the perspectives they have gained.”

Sasha Frate Founder

sashafrate sasha@facethecurrent.com

Cover Image Credits: •

•

2

Front cover: Institute For Transformational Thinking Founding Team by Danny McGee / Graphics by Dimitriy Khanzhin Back cover by Drew Brophy ‘Quantum Art’

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

Available at

(click logo to go)

www.facethecurrent.com For advertisement and sponsor inquiries: Annette Krey, Sales Manager annette@facethecurrent.com David Aiello, Director of Marketing david@facethecurrent.com For writer and contributor inquiries: Sasha Frate, Founder & Editor in Chief sasha@facethecurrent.com All Rights Reserved DISCLAIMER The information provided on this magazine is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider.

Opinions and other statements expressed by the kind souls sharing their viewpoint, users and third parties are theirs alone, not opinions of Face the Current. Content created by third parties is the sole responsibility of the third parties and its accuracy and completeness are not endorsed or guaranteed. Face the Current Website and third parties may provide links to web pages, web sites, and various resources or locations on the web. Face the Current has no control over the information you access via such links, does not endorse that information, and shall not be responsible for it or for the consequences of your use of that information.

All products and services featured are selected by our editors. Face the Current may receive compensation for some links to products and services in this magazine.

transformation Edition People experience transformations every day; some are simple, and some take sustained work and effort, while the very reasons we may seek to embrace it are vast. This month we invite you to explore the various ways our minds, bodies, and lives can be transformed and the benefits that result.

We begin this explorative journey with ‘professional adventurers’ who wander the world map as a lifestyle and career, hearing their stories on the transformation that travel and nature can affect in us, becoming citizens of the world and gaining new perspectives with every experience. Adventures run deep into the wilderness and into the hearts and minds touched by it, not only in our travel section this month but also in sports, from prAna stories of Patagonia to Cinematographer Ben Weiland’s recounting of visits to breathtaking places on earth where few others have been.

We continue to look at the range of possibilities for transformation with the research of Biophysicist William Brown of the Resonance Science Foundation who examines the inner dimension of our being and the ‘spacememory network’ to transform our thinking. Matt Belair reveals how our life can be transformed from a fear based to love based reality; we venture on a ‘Mystic Journey’ to learn about the transformative power of nature’s gems through the world of crystals and sacred geometry in art, and then discover the power of influence through storytelling and even how comedy has been transformed in the wake of today’s political climate.

Einstein once said “problems cannot be solved on the level of thinking that created them,” and thus we look at how transforming our thinking can spark the positive changes we desire to see in the world. We are excited to introduce The Institute For Transformational Thinking, a new educational non-profit founded by a group of visionary leaders who aim to address this on a global scale in a movement towards revolutionizing the way we think, directed by wisdom, compassion and purpose—at a time when we need it most.

Find harmony, healing in mind and body, and inspiration through music, eating with intention, and learn how to transform your water (and wine!) with Gem Water. Finally, Dr. Judith Orloff shares how to develop your intuition, notice your beliefs, and listen to your dreams to find answers to set you in your ‘right’ direction.

We hope you find this month’s transformation edition of Face the Current useful in tapping into your most authentic self, leading a most fulfilling life, and inspiring you to join in our ripple effect of positive change in the world.

www.facethecurrent.com

3

fAce the current Issue 17 · March 2018

the

t e a m 4

Sasha Frate

Founder and Editor in Chief is a perspective seeker, adventurer, and explorer. She received her Master’s Degree in Liberal Arts and continues to study a variety of subjects within and outside of the academic setting. Frate brings her personal moonshot approach to life to FtC, aiming to provide an experience for our global community where we inspire one another to stay curious, never stop exploring, and to live on-purpose and to potential.

Annette Krey Sales Manager

Coming from the hospitality industry, Annette has successfully and passionately worked in Sales & Marketing both in the United States and in Germany in different industries. A German native, she has lived in the Portland, Oregon area for almost 8 years. There she learned to love the outdoors and the green lifestyle that plays an important role in the lives of many Oregonians.

As a mom of two young children a healthy and sustainable lifestyle is now a big priority for her and she teaches her children to live passionately, be open-minded and to be respectful to our planet and all living things.

David Aiello

Director of Marketing is an author, musician and photographer based in Portland, Oregon. He has worked with Fortune 50 companies to build their global brands but now applies his natural curiosity to exploring and documenting the world around him.

Tom Archer Guest Editor

Sema Garay

Executive Designer Sema is the graphic designer behind the development of the image and magazine of Face the Current. He has developed a multitude of projects, including his previous job leading the Creative Department of BG Life Magazine, in Marbella, Spain.

Sema is passionate about all kinds of artistic expressions, especially music and architecture.

Eric is a writer, teacher and shamanic practitioner living in Central Oregon in a tipi near the Deschutes River. His passion is creating community through indigenous spirituality, namely through the Lakota and Laika/Earth Keeper ways.

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

Candice Paschal Photojournalist

Danny McGee

Photographer & Filmmaker is an adventure photographer and filmmaker based out of Colorado. For the past three years he has traveled all around the world taking photos and making films. His goal is to not only share his vision of the world, but to inspire people to get out and explore it for themselves.

has an unquenchable thirst for truth, creative expression and philanthropy, which allows her to complete projects that inspire others and challenge existing boundaries. She embraces serenity in nature through meditation and a vegan lifestyle, and believes that we are the authors of our own destinies. Candice is a business owner with her husband, a mother to twin sons and currently resides in Portland, Oregon.

Instagram: @candicepaschal

march-

CREW David Ryan

We are a growing team of Up-standers whose intention is to create positive change in the world, through networking, connecting, supporting and developing at an individual and global community level. We are passionate about building our network of experts and industry leaders to deliver cutting edge information to our global community. This month’s Team and Crew are based in the US, Spain, Germany and Canada.

Benjamin Decker

is a writer, meditation teacher and holistic is a celebrity trainer in Los Angeles, business consultant. He is a founding California and creator of LIFTSTRONG Max Intensity Interval Training. You can get meditation teacher at Unplug Meditation, The DEN Meditation, Wanderlust your own personalized HIIT program at Hollywood, Mystic Journey, and is the www.DavidRyanFitness.com founding Spiritual Director at Full Circle Instagram: @DavidRyanFitness Venice. He is the author of the upcoming book, Practical Meditation (Althea Press), released May 1, 2018 in stores worldwide. www.bendeckermeditation.com

Ankha Marza

is an internationally renowned public speaking coach and communication strategist. Ankha has coached Royalty, Presidents and Vice Presidents of countries and corporations, Presidential Candidates, First Ladies, Parliament and Cabinet Members, Hollywood celebrities, Fortune 500 executives, sales and nonprofit organizations, youth and women leadership groups, CEOs and their teams in the US and worldwide.

Her work and client base span over 50 countries and 6 continents. www.speakyourpower.com

Judith Orloff

MD is the author of The Empath’s Survival Guide: Life Strategies for Sensitive People upon which this article is based. Dr. Orloff is a psychiatrist, an empath and intuitive healer, and is on the UCLA Psychiatric Clinical Faculty. She synthesizes the pearls of traditional medicine with cutting edge knowledge of intuition, energy, and spirituality. Dr. Orloff also specializes in treating empaths and highly sensitive people in her private practice. She passionately believes that the future of medicine involves integrating all this wisdom to achieve total wellness. https://drjudithorloff.com/ www.facebook.com/DrJudithOrloff/

Drew Brophy

is life-long surfer and student of physics, known for his Quantum Art, which incorporates sacred geometry, and his distinctive style of Surf Inspired Art. Drew’s Surf Art innovated a global shift in the way that surfboards were painted in the 1990’s. His style is used in schools as a teaching tool and thousands of artists are influenced by his work. Drew’s Quantum Art is inspired by his studies of the laws of nature, solar dynamics and ancient cultures. Through his paintings, Drew strives to show that everything is energy and that we are all connected. http://drewbrophy.com

is an American Comedian, Actor, Director, & Podcaster. His popular comedy podcast “Punched Up” explores the stories behind the comedians you love. Michael writes on “Great Comedians. Great Stories. Told Differently.” www.malonecomedy.com Social: @malonecomedy

Belair is the author of the best selling book Zen Athlete and the host of the top-rated Woody Woodrow Matt Belair podcast. He is an explorer of the mind and world and has trained with is a touring musician and yoga instructor.

On and off the road he enjoys guiding 34th generation Shaolin Masters in China, studied meditation with monks in Nepal others through their practice. He believes through relaxation we have no limits and survived a near-death experience to what we can accomplish. Woody is trekking Mount Everest just to name a few a 200hr RYT and a Strala guide having of his accomplishments. He is dedicated trained with his friend and mentor Tara to teaching others how to expand their Stiles. Music is naturally an important part consciousness, connect with spirit and of his practice and his classroom setting bring more awareness, love and kindness reflects just that. to the planet. www.woodywoodrow.com www.ZenAthlete.com Instagram: @woodywoodrow www.MattBelair.com

is the best selling author of “Eat with Intention: Recipes and Meditations for a Life the Lights You Up” and the founder of the online mind-body-soul support community, Aprecity.com. Cassandra teaches women who want to have it all how to create rituals using food, meditation, and self-care to create sustainable success and wellbeing. She has been dubbed a “spiritual leader” by Well and Good and is the mindful cooking show host of Eat with Intention TV or you may know her as the happy, healthy living guru from ABC’s The Taste. cassandrabodzak.com

Matthew Belair

Michael Malone

William Brown

is a biophysicist and research scientist at The Resonance Science Foundation where he performs theoretical and experimental research to better understand the physics of complex, self-organizing systems, particularly the biological system. Within the theoretical purview, this has revealed important new insights into the processes of biogenesis, evolution, biological intelligence and consciousness. In experimental and applied domains, this has potential applications in new health and wellness technologies, manufacturing, and agriculture. William is passionate about learning and considers that as a fundamental aspect of his work and life. His primary objective is to help bring forth new ideas and technologies to assist humanity and advance civilization. https://resonance.is https://academy.resonance.is

Away Lands

Cassandra Bodzak

is the creative partnership and journey of Amy Seder and Brandon Burkley. They specialize in lifestyle and travel short films and photography, showcasing a heightened and curated reality.

Away Lands was sparked after feeling unfulfilled in their jobs, and the realization that they were living just to get through to the next vacation - what started as a decision to embark on an adventure around the world quickly evolved into starting a business together. www.awaylands.com

www.facethecurrent.com

5

CONTENT Issue 17 · March 2018

COVER stories

THE INSTITUTE FOR HARMONIZE TRANSFORMATIONAL YOUR BODY & MIND WITH THINKING Global Visionary Leaders Aim To Revolutionize Thought 108

CRYSTALS, MUSIC & MINDFUL EATING

‘Mystic Journey’ With Crystals 42 Music 68 How Do You “Eat With Intention?”118

HOW TO TUNE INTO & FOLLOW INTUITION TO REINVENT YOUR LIFE 124

6

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

ALTER YOUR LIFE FROM FEAR BASED TO LOVE BASED REALITY 56

HOW TRAVEL TRANSFORMS US INTO CITIZENS OF THE WORLD Away Lands 10 Cuba 16 Embracing The Elements 92 Tierra del Sueños 98

march CONTENT 10. Away Lands: Becoming Citizens Of The World

EL

V RA

T

16. Cuba Goes With The Slow But Keeps The Connection 20. Ftc Travel Connection 38. The Transformational Power Of Nature & Sacred Geometry 42. Master Of His Destiny, Jeffrey Segal Follows Inner Voice To Achieve Transformation Through A ‘Mystic Journey’ With Crystals

RE

LTU

CU

56. How To Transform Your Life From A Fear Based Reality To A Love Based Reality 48. The Unified Spacememory Network: An Impetus To Transform Our Thinking 62. Neural Coupling And Love Potions? -Stories And How You Can Use Their Power To Influence And Inspire66. The President Vs Punchlines 70. Kirbanu Reflections: Aligning With Your Truth Where Life Begins

SIC

MU

78. Dynasty Electrik Blurring Genres And Harmonizing Chakras 82. Yoga For Musicians Featuring Shae Brock 88. The Most Sophisticated House Music

s rt s o sp nes it &f

92. Embracing The Elements: Cinematic Stories Of The Wild 98. Tierra Del Sueños. prAna Story Created In Collaboration With Yeehaw Donkey 102. Hiit Yoga By David Ryan Fitness 106. Gem Water: The Beauty & Power Of Gemstones

th

h

l ea

108. The Institute For Transformational Thinking: Global Visionary Leaders Aim To Revolutionize Thought

118. How Do You “Eat With Intention?”

124. How To Develop Your Intuition

www.facethecurrent.com

7

FtC fAce the current

TRAVEL

10.

16.

20.

8

Away Lands: Becoming Citizens Of The World CUBA Goes With The Slow But Keeps The Connection FtC Travel Connection

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

THE WORLD’S VESSELS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS Vercoe has been in business since 1989 serving the needs of boaters worldwide from our offices in Portland, Oregon and Maui, Hawaii. www.vercoeyachtsales.com

www.facethecurrent.com

9

FtC travel

Away Lands: Becoming Citizens Of The World

By Brandon Burkley, Feat. Amy Seder It’s been around a year and half now since Amy and I left New York City for the world. We’ve since traveled to 24 countries and have had more experiences to count, including some of the highest highs and lowest lows we never could have imagined. We are “away” almost full time, and although we sometimes miss our old home in New York, we wouldn’t give up this life.

10

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

I’m writing this as I sit in our friend’s apartment in Brooklyn.

We’re back here to visit for a quick minute before we head off to our next destination: Belize. I would be lying without saying that the NYC nostalgia has set in since we’ve been back. Our old apartment sits on the Brooklyn waterfront, where we’re often throwing our traditional Tiki

parties, spending summer days at Smorgasbord, riding bikes into the city over the Williamsburg Bridge, BBQs, rooftops, buzzing city lights, the New York vibrant energy and efficiency. There’s nothing quite like it.

In some way, this New York ‘life’ will always be home, as well as our small little hometown of Ventura, California where Amy and I both grew up.

If anything, this year and a half

has given us perspective. We’ve chosen to lead a completely crazy, nontraditional life, and we’ve been fortunate that our little production company, Away Lands, has taken off like it has. We’ve shot films and photos for brands across the world, such as Hyatt Hotels, St. Regis, Sauza Tequila, and the list goes on. Through all of this, we’ve met so many people and developed countless friendships, to the point now that no matter

www.facethecurrent.com

11

“

We were making the world a more familiar place, connecting with everyone around us, indulging in new cultures and experiences, becoming citizens of the world.

“

where we are, we’re never far away from someone familiar.

And that was the unforeseen purpose… our transformation. We were making the world a more familiar place, connecting with everyone around us, indulging in new cultures and experiences, becoming citizens of the world.

With so much of the political

12

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

rhetoric right now shouting just the opposite, e.g., building walls, driving people against each other, instilling fear in our world instead of care for humanity, Amy and I continue to believe there is no better time to do what we’re doing than now. And that’s what drives us and continues to inspire us - connecting with people around the world, and in so doing, finding that we truly are not so

different after all.

A few months ago, we had the incredible opportunity of traveling to India, a place we were always intrigued by, but maybe slightly shied away from on our “wander list” as it was this wild crazy place full of so many unknowns - stories of crime and terrible bouts of food poisoning. There were so many places we wanted to see, but we found

ourselves wondering- “Was this one worth it?”

When my college buddy invited us out for his wedding, it became a simple answer- we had to go.

Attending a traditional Indian wedding had been on our list for a while. It looked like such a magical experience. We arrived in Delhi and were overwhelmed by the buzzing madness of the city. There was so much going on, so many people, so many ancient sites, foods, and aromas. It was sensory overload.

After a few days running around Delhi, we traveled up to Dehradun, a much slower, quieter, beautiful little city nested at the foothills of the Himalayas.

We spent a few days meeting my friend’s family, dancing, and indulging in the food and traditional wedding culture. There were aunties and uncles and cousins that came from all over India, it was so amazing to hear all of their stories. Amy made a little friend at the wedding, one of the younger girl cousins. They spent the entire night dancing with each other, mouthing lyrics to American pop songs, and when the time came, the little girl was teaching Amy how to sing and dance to traditional Indian songs.

I met one of the uncles, who was a proud owner of a textiles business in India. He told me he was so honored to have Amy and I as guests from the United States, and

www.facethecurrent.com

13

“

We are all connected no matter the distance that separates us, no matter who we are, no matter living or dead. We are all lost but have the ability to tell our story through our connection with this world. Life is a stage in which we are all actors - we are infinitely discovering, learning and playing out our story. With the love of our souls and each other, we can create magic.

“

14

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

asked where I would be staying once back in Delhi, so he could send gifts for us.

A week later, we were working on a film job for a hotel in Delhi, where Amy and I spent a week working with a marketing manager who we immediately connected with. It was as if we were all of a sudden back home hanging out with a good friend. Our souls immediately had this affinity; a striking familiarity and we had so much to share. She took us around Delhi and showed us her favorite places to eat, shop and hang. She was stylish, had great taste, and the strangest part was that a lot of the places we went to eat or hang out felt just like some of our favorite spots back in Brooklyn.

So much of what we have found with travel has been overwhelming and exciting, not unlike our recent trip to India. At the same time, there have been so many unforeseen challenges, from being detained by police, extorted, having our gear seized, passports and wallets have been stolen, and the list goes on. But we have been unrelenting as the experiences and interactions we have made with people across the world have been so incredibly rewarding. One of the most interesting realizations we’ve made along the way is that so many of the people we have met are so shockingly similar to ourselves, and that if you take the chance with travel, you will undoubtedly experience this beautiful connection with humanity and embrace the love of the world.

ymore info: watch video

andaz new delhi video “401 reasons”

www.awaylands.com Instagram: @amyseder / @bburkley Facebook: @awaylands

www.facethecurrent.com

15

FtC travel

CUBA Goes With The Slow But Keeps The Connection “

By Danny McGee

Speed can be fun, productive and powerful, and we would be poorer without it.

What the world needs, and what the slow movement offers, is a middle path, a recipe for marrying la dolce vita with the dynamism of the information age. The secret is balance: instead of doing everything faster, do everything at the right speed.

Sometimes fast. Sometimes slow. Sometimes in between.

“

–Carl Honore, In Praise of Slowness: Challenging The Cult of Speed

16Theres FACEno theshortage CURRENTof MAGAZINE classic cars pulsing through the capital streets of Havanna

Government issued ID from 1956

The streets are alive in Havanna.

We sat and talked to this guy for a while and listened to him playing the guitar Locked away from much of the western world, yet only 90 miles from the South Florida coast, time moves slowly in Cuba.

Governed by socialism, and virtually hidden away from the outside world, there is little to no internet access and kids grow up with superheroes like Che Guevara and Fidel Castro. In our lives today we are flooded with information, while in Cuba it remains more of a trickle, yet we are connected to each other in ways we never thought possible.

Stepping back in time in Havana. Credit: Cody Duncan www.facethecurrent.com

17

As you walk, original baroque and neoclassic buildings flank the narrow cobblestone streets; classic cars from the 1950’s pass by as street vendors sell fruits and vegetables out of carts. While children play baseball in the streets, old men sit on stoops smoking hand-rolled cigars, soaking in this tapestry. It’s somewhat of a surreal time travel to experience this slow, connected life that from another perspective simultaneously appears very “disconnected.” It is the very type of experience that causes you reflect on who is living it “right?” Is there a “right” way to live a more connected life?

the mostMAGAZINE popular sport in Cuba. Throughout the country, you’ll find countless pickup games going on 18 Baseball FACE theisCURRENT

Tobacco farmer rides by in his horse drawn buggy

“

Tobacco drying in the sun. Credit: Cody Duncan

“

Stories are a communal currency of humanity.

–Tahir

A tobacco farmer shows us the ropes on cigar making

In contrast to the sometimes tumultuous nature of our modern lives, Cuba, for better or worse, retains a slow, connected life. And that’s what I wanted to experience on my journey to the isolated country.

I found that as our world changes constantly, Cuban’s ask, “Why change at all?”

As I visit with the locals, I encounter a man who welcomes me into ‘the slow.’ Traditional storytelling may be less encountered in modern society, but it will forever remain a priceless experience, especially when immersing in different cultures. As this man sat and smoked his hand rolled, archetypal tobacco cigar and narrated his stories to me, I wish I could have sat there and listened forever.

ymore info: The stories this old man could tell would captivate you for countless hours

www.dannyemcgee.com Instagram: @danneymcgee www.facethecurrent.com

19

FtC travel

FtC Travel Connection Wanderlusters, Adventurers, Explorers, and Travel Photographers –‘Sharing Our Stories’ ftc travel connection

Emmett Sparling PLACE I Call Home: Bowen Island, canada Instagram: @emmett_sparling www.emmettsparling.com

20

Machu Picchu No photos do justice to Machu Picchu. It is so much bigger in real life. This is one of thethe only placesMAGAZINE that has actually taken my breath away with its epicness.

FACE CURRENT

Peruvian Kite Boy Every evening above Cusco city, families fly their kites on top of the surrounding hills. At 12,000 feet the altitude is exhausting, however looking at these kids run around, you would never know how high up you were.

What is a travel experience you have had that transformed your life?

The first thing that comes to mind when I think of life-changing travel experiences, is my trek through the Peruvian Andes in August 2017.

After trekking for 5 days through the Andes, we were determined to get to Rainbow Mountain for sunrise.

On our final day, we left basecamp

at midnight to reach Rainbow Mountain by 5:30am (sunrise). At around 16,500 feet at 3am, we were hit by a blizzard while crossing the ridge leading to our final destination (17,400ft). We huddled together in the dark until the storm began to clear and the sun began to rise. Epic pink clouds greeted us for no more than 5 minutes before turning back to their usual grey. It was absolutely magical. It was one of the most

fulfilling moments of my life because of how much effort went into getting the shot. I had envisioned it weeks before, and we were able to make our vision come to life.

ftC fAce the current

travel connection www.facethecurrent.com

21

Are there any particular experiences you seek out as part of your travels?

Whenever I’m travelling I try to seek out the best possible shooting locations.

Before I go somewhere, I Google the best photography spots, tourist attractions (in nature) and where the sun rises and sets. The vast majority of my photos are taken at sunrise or sunset because this provides the best light, and adds a nice glow to my photographs. When I go to a place, I immediately make a plan for sunrise and sunset for the next day by doing a quick location scout (this can be done during the day when the light isn’t as nice).

Rainbow Mountain

22 These FACEpink the CURRENT MAGAZINE clouds greeted us for no more than 5 minutes before turning back to their usual grey.

In terms of travel experiences, I try to seek out something interesting and local whenever I go somewhere exotic. For example, in Bali I went to a traditional dance performance, and in India I took Tabla Drum lessons. I always try as much of the local food as possible (safely because food poisoning is the worst).

ftC fAce the current

travel connection

Balanese Couple A farmer and his wife. I met these two on a little island about an hour from Bali, Indonesia. The man on the left is 103 years old. His age didn’t stop him from kicking a soccer ball around with Jordan and I.

Bali Rice Terraces Every morning in Indonesia is the calmest part of the day. The sunbeams come out in full force with the humidity in the air. Sometimes it’s so quiet you can almost hear the light warming up the ground. As soon as the sunbeams are www.facethecurrent.com gone, Indonesia goes back to its chaotic self and the day begins.

23

ftC fAce the current

travel connection

Japanese Pagoda We saw the sky start to light up for sunset and we raced to the top of the hill behind this Pagoda, over looking the 24 most FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE symmetrical mountain I have ever seen

Have you ever felt ‘transformed’ by nature?

Growing up on Bowen Island, British Columbia has been super important in shaping who I am today. Surrounded by nature, and immersed in a creative and supportive environment, I spent hours exploring the forests and beaches with my friends and brother, creating fantasy worlds as kids, then making videos and taking photos as we got older. Growing up this way on the island made my connection to nature far stronger, and makes me more passionate about what I do now.

Mount Bromo We started hiking at 2AM to reach the summit of a neighboring mountain for sunrise. The mist settles into the desert www.facethecurrent.com 25 valley at night, making the volcanoes look even more like an alien planet.

ftc travel connection

Hollie Freeman

PLACE I Call Home: I grew up in England, but I call Bali my soul home Instagram: @whale_be_okay www.holliefreeman.com

ftc travel connection

Eron Edward

PLACE I Call Home: Vancouver Island, Canada Instagram: @eronedward YOUTUBE: @eronedward 26

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

ftC fAce the current

travel connection What is one travel experience you’ve had that transformed your life?

HOLLIE: Traveling to Bali transformed me in so many ways, especially their ideas on spirituality and wellness. I think about it every day and am always planning our next trip back there! It introduced me to new ways of thinking, new ways of living and began to mould me in ways I wasn’t even aware of. I would spend my days practicing yoga and meditation; mouth watering organic food would fuel me and the smell of incense would always be filling the air.

It encompasses all the things I never knew I loved and needed in my life.

Bali really introduced me to a sense of peace I have never felt before.

You could spend an afternoon just watching the rice workers and birds fly over the lush green fields, the sunlight reflecting off the water and really start to understand how life dances in simplicity. It is actually my dream to live on the island full time and run retreats for others to have their own personal transformations (and travel in our spare time of course)!

ERON: About 5 years ago I needed an adventure, so my mate and I decided to cycle across Canada. The cycling was short-lived, and we ended up hitchhiking most of the way home.

Four months later we made it home as changed people. Traveling with no time limit, very few possessions, and sometimes no money was the perfect

recipe to learn a valuable lesson in gratitude, which forever transformed my life.

A bed never felt as good as after sleeping on the ground for weeks; and after weeks of water bottles and river bathing, running water seems like a dream. This whim of a trip, really rocked my world and made me realize just how lucky I am that the whole world is in my backyard. That it’s not money, but your imagination that limits your experiences. And that I am incredibly fortunate to be born in a country that lets me do whatever floats my boat. This experience really woke me up to the fact that it would be a real shame to waste the endless potential I’ve been afforded - and since then I’ve decided to lead a fantastic life. www.facethecurrent.com

27

How have your experiences in nature reshaped your life?

HOLLIE: I feel like nature transforms me all the time and holds so much wisdom if we look close enough. One memory that stands out in particular though is being trapped on a tiny island in Fiji during a category 5 Cyclone. It was declared the most powerful storm the southern hemisphere has ever seen. I’ve never been so terrified and in awe at the same time. The sheer power of the wind and the destruction caused was tragic. Seeing

28

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

how quickly everything could be taken from you, including your life, not only gave me a huge respect for our earth, but it also really shifted my perspective to cherish every waking moment.

ERON: The feeling you get as a gnarly wave is about to send you for a good tumble is one of the most humbling experiences I can think of.

It is that moment in the surf where you can maybe see many people, they can see you, you may even see the shoreline, cars and houses - but in that moment, you are totally alone

and one with Mother Nature, and she is not bothered by you. Surfing is perhaps what brings me closest to nature; and some of my best days have been had in the water. I find it slightly meditative, it allows me to be totally at peace, totally present, and involved in something that is completely unique. No two days could ever be the same. This passion has certainly influenced my life and actions. It has put the health of our oceans in the forefront of my mind, and is always inspiring me to make greener choices.

ftC fAce the current

travel connection Are there any particular experiences you seek out as part of your travels or any preferred features of where you stay?

HOLLIE: I love to travel to places that challenge me in some way and open my mind to new ways of living.

As well as this, nature and wildlife will always draw me in to a new destination. How much the local people and establishments live in harmony with nature and wildlife is a big factor as to whether I will want to go somewhere. For example, we are traveling to more obscure locations in the Philippines to ensure that we are not contributing to the exploitation of swimming with Whale Sharks (which harms both the whales and the ocean when done incorrectly). In terms of where we stay, we love to support hotels

(and brands in general) that make sustainable choices – I don’t think people realize what an impact they have when travelling, but conscious tourism is so important. Making mindful choices means you are supporting the right people and places to ensure our world thrives.

We travel a lot and want to make sure that we are leaving the right footprint.

ERON: I have a passion for collecting skills, and the experiences I seek out are often ones I can learn from. I buy very few, (if any) souvenirs, and in exchange for things - I prefer to learn valuable skills that I can use for the rest of my life. Whether it is learning to free dive, to dance, or learning to cook dishes from the locals themselves, these opportunities to learn often influence my travels, and

give me a much richer reward to take away. Otherwise, I am just after a challenge. Mountains to climb, distant islands to swim to… I’m always looking for opportunities to push my limits.

Anywhere we stay, and anywhere we may eat - we are supporting them.

And while some businesses and hotels are focused mainly on getting by, or expanding; I like to pose the question: What are you doing for the world? In this day and age we all have a responsibility to start making greener choices, so when it comes to where we stay, I am happy to pay more to support locals who are making positive choices for the world.

That is of huge importance, and I think the more that people start considering the ethics of who they are choosing to support, the happier Mother Nature will be. www.facethecurrent.com

29

30

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

ftC fAce the current

travel connection What’s behind the name of your blog “Whale Be Okay?”

HOLLIE: I created Whale Be Okay as a space for all things travel and self-growth; as I believe they come hand in hand. It’s a blog to feed your

wanderlust and nurture your mind.

It’s a space for inspiration, good vibes but also for support on subjects such as mental health and new ideas on living a more sustainable lifestyle.

Most of all, my hope is that anyone who visits my blog will leave feeling a

little lighter. Not only more inspired to travel, but that you’ll also feel more reassured when tackling life’s bigger challenges. Whatever it may be, I want to reassure you that it really ‘whale be okay.’ www.facethecurrent.com

31

32

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

ftC fAce the current

travel connection As a musician, how do your travels impact your music and do you take it with you everywhere you go?

ERON: It is always a surprise as to how the airline will react when I pull out my chunky guitar and ask what I should do with it, but it has never deterred me from taking it anywhere.

I think I would feel rather naked without it. Traveling is constantly inspiring for so many reasons, and I believe it directs my songs in a unique way. You are constantly witness to so much kindness, chaos, and even suffering, and it allows me to put aside the typical “I’m a boy and I have feelings” and write about ideas that are more real, and universal. Another

great advantage is that I can make some money! While it’s not much, gigging in bars or restaurants or even busking has helped me make a small living in some countries. It doesn’t matter which language you speak, everyone loves music and there is never a shortage of opportunities to sing my heart out. www.facethecurrent.com

33

ftc travel connection

Samantha Mauro PLACE I Call Home: Connecticut Instagram: @sam_mauro www.samanthamauro.com What is one travel experience you’ve had that transformed your life?

No singular experience has transformed me more than another, rather the sum total of my adventures has. For example, a string of islands often referred to as paradise and a landlocked third world city, two contrasting destinations, by every sense of the word, have shaped me, together, in ways I never expected. I discovered my inner island girl in Hawaii; she is at peace in the world and is more connected to and appreciative of her surroundings. The slower pace

34

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

of life has, in turn, helped me adapt better to large, bustling cities, which usually riddle me with anxiety. I can hone in on those quiet moments of beauty instead of feeling lost in the forest of building-shaped trees, so to speak. Kathmandu is a place I wasn’t supposed to fall in love with for that very reason. Somehow it charmed me with its chaotic dusty streets. I was able to find solace in the beautiful colors and smiling faces. The Aloha spirit met me at a mountainside temple. If you learn to pass slowly through a place that is rushing all around, you may find a softness you didn’t know was there.

Have you ever felt ‘transformed’ by nature?

Growing up in a suburb of New York City, the only giants I knew were skyscrapers. As a child, craning my neck and tiny body to look up, I was astonished at their towering height above me. I had no idea that the same feeling would wash over me in nature. On a recent trip out to the Pacific Northwest, I found myself hiking, jaw-dropped, through the

North Cascades. I was transported back to the feeling I had as a little girl, except I was surrounded by colossal peaks that diminished even the tallest of the buildings back home. I paused for a rest, sitting down cross-legged, to take in the beauty of the dramatic high rises, bending backward much as I had when I was younger to take in the expansive view. The sight left me completely awestruck. I stayed there until the sun sank down behind the

mountains and the stars were strewn over the sky. I’ve never felt so tiny and humbled by nature before and I long to feel that way again

ftC fAce the current

travel connection www.facethecurrent.com

35

EXPLORE WITH US FtC

culture fAce the current

38. The Transformational Power Of

Nature & Sacred Geometry 42. Jeffrey Segal : ‘Mystic Journey’ With Crystals 56. How To Transform Your Life From A Fear

Based Reality To A Love Based Reality 48. The Unified Spacememory Network: An Impetus To Transform Our Thinking 62. Neural Coupling and Love Potions?

-Stories And How You Can Use Their

Power To Influence And Inspire3666.FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE The President vs Punchlines

The Delegate Program:

Exploring the Connected Universe is designed to provide a foundational understanding of the field of unified physics. This course explores core concepts of the holographic perspective and unified field model; current and emerging views in physics; historical roots of modern physics; and the critical shift in worldview that unified physics advances, both in consciousness and technological innovation.

EXPLORE DELEGATE PROGRAM ELECTIVES JOIN US IN PERU For 2 Annual Gathering In 2018 nd

www.facethecurrent.com

37

FtC culture

The Transformational Power Of

Nature & Sacred Geometry

By Drew Brophy

“

“

Good design in art mimics the perfection of designs we see in nature. It’s really the ability to articulate beauty. The beauty comes from the underlying geometry and the essence of being present.

38

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

MetatronsCUBE by Drew Brophy

Drew Brophy with Sacred Geometry photo by Jonie Millhouse

Our modern world is moving too fast and it is full of distractions. It is overwhelming and chaotic. I think this is because we have attempted to recreate something that already exists within us; a web of information and devices to access it. It is a false reality which is easily corrupted.

With this we have become disconnected from the true field of nature, which we call presence. We have forgotten our true language and our innate connection to this field.

Many people don’t realize that we, ourselves, are the devices which we experience through our senses and gain feedback via our emotions.

We have forgotten how to use our own natural born sensors, and the false field is tricking our emotional response, causing confusion.

Transformation, for me, came from spending time being present, in

nature. This led me to a deeper understanding of sacred geometry and the language that describes how everything in the Universe works.

Imagine how being truly present can shift your perception. As a surfer and an artist, my understanding of the world has sharpened to an ever-expanded understanding of all that is.

When surfing, I am immersed in three great interwoven energies, the ocean, the atmosphere, and the sun.

The ocean is the perfect place to feel the heartbeat of the planet. I’ve

Drew Brophy surfing become an expert in meteorology and sensitive to the slightest changes in wind or temperature.

The waves are born from the everpresent solar wind, charging and stirring up the atmosphere, thus generating waves across the globe. It is amazing that a surfer can get into www.facethecurrent.com

39

“

Turn off your devices and get into nature, and enjoy the best device of all, and that is, yourself. You will recharge and see the world with fresh eyes. It will wake up all your senses and enable you to experience the earth in all its divine glory.

“

this rhythm and attempt to catch this last breath of liquid light. In that moment inside the vortex of a curling wave, you feel pure joy and for a few seconds, time slows to nearly stopped, and you are fully present.

This was where my transformation began. My art has always revolved around the sun and the waves. But in the last few years, it has changed. As I looked deeper I started noticing the same patterns everywhere, in nature,

40

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

music, people, everything. I saw that patterns in a nautilus shell are similar those you see in hurricanes and galaxies.

I discovered that recurring patterns were in my paintings, also. When someone likes a painting, we call it good design or composition. The viewer either likes it or they don’t, but they really do not know why.

What they don’t realize is that good design in art mimics the perfection of designs we see in nature. It’s really

the ability to articulate beauty. The beauty comes from the underlying geometry and the essence of being present.

In an attempt to better understand what I thought I was feeling and seeing, I began studying ancient symbols and sacred geometry. In the symbols I saw many similar ideas describing vectors, spin, and dimension. I wondered what they were trying to tell us.

Nautilus by Drew Brophy

One day I started drawing geometry, which was meditative, and the focus expanded my thoughts. Then I started painting giant canvas, adding the flower of life and other sacred geometries. The rhythm of painting circles was magic, unveiling a hidden language of intelligent design, like a fabric or field in which we are all connected. I understood for the first time the mechanism of nature and I felt the presence of divinity everywhere.

We all should practice being more present so that we can reconnect to the true field. When we are present, time seems to slow, in those moments we gain clarity.

“

A life-long surfer and student of physics, Drew Brophy is known for his Quantum Art, which incorporates sacred geometry, and his distinctive style of Surf Inspired Art.

“

ThirdEyeChakra Reciever by Drew Brophy

Turn off your devices and get into nature, and enjoy the best device of all, and that is, yourself. You will recharge and see the world with fresh eyes. It will wake up all your senses and enable you to experience the earth in all its divine glory.

Maybe you will remember who you really are and why you are here. We are the light and life is beautiful.

ymore info: www.drewbrophy.com www.facethecurrent.com

41

FtC culture

Master Of His Destiny, Jeffrey Segal Follows Inner Voice To Achieve Transformation Through a

‘Mystic Journey’ With Crystals Interview By Eric Marley Personal transformations can produce startling revelations.The seemingly surprising metamorphism Jeffrey Segal experienced took him from jurisprudence to crystallography. It was surprising for everyone but Jeffrey. To him this was a natural result of following his inner voice.That did not mean he proceeded blindly. He knew that to achieve a personal transformation, he had to clearly define the new reality he wanted to create. By remaining grateful for his past accomplishments, he possessed confidence to leave the security he had known, and move on to make new things happen.This culminated with his opening Mystic Journey Crystals, in Venice, California. In a fascinating conversation with Face the Current, Jeffrey elaborates on the mindset that allowed him to follow his passions, leaving one’s comfort zone to explore new opportunities and how to unleash the incredible power contained in crystals.

42

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

Photo Credit: Thomas Wasper

“

I feel that synchronicities happen all the time- but most miss them. By seeing or hearing them, acknowledging them, and expressing gratitude for them, they then “seem” to happen more often.

Jeffrey Segal: I was open. And I listened to my intuition, my inner voice. I am a triple Capricorn, meaning that my sun sign, my moon sign and my rising sign are all Capricorn. This makes me very

“

Eric Marley: You went from being an attorney and 27 years of practicing law to opening Mystic Journey Crystals, a high-end gallery in Venice, California. Synchronicity after synchronicity seemed to have facilitated your dreams and transformed your whole lifestyle. What habits, decisions or mindset did you possess to enable such interesting events?

“earthy” as Capricorn is an earth sign. (No wonder I’m involved with crystals from the earth!) But knowing this, and acknowledging years ago that I wasn’t very intuitive, I worked on developing my intuition, making it better, stronger, more accurate. For me, this involved paying attention to what was happening around me and in my life, and listening, closely, to my Inner Voice. When a thought came into my mind, I heard it, and followed it if I felt it resonate with me. I feel that synchronicities happen all the time- but most miss them. By seeing or hearing them, acknowledging them, and expressing gratitude for them, they then “seem”

to happen more often. They don’t, but we become more aware they are happening. Then when we follow through on them, the cycle continues and grows.

EM: Like many people, you seem to have felt called to leave your law practice and pursue something closer to your heart.

Yet, it took decades – and lifethreatening illnesses – before you decided enough was enough.

Why do you believe so many people share in this desire to change their path, yet resist this calling until provoked by some drastic event in their life? www.facethecurrent.com

43

“

Unless one has had experiences that allows them to do this, it’s extremely difficult to basically have blind faith; blind faith that all will be ok if they make a change in their life path. One thing I’ve been taught, and followed, and then experienced, is to take small steps to building faith. At first, one’s faith is “blind.” But if one tries a small thing, one with little risk, and Universe responds and all is ok, then the person builds faith that the Universe is there to support them.

44

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

“

JS: Security is number one. The security of one’s stable life, one’s job title that gives status, one’s financial situation and regular revenue stream. This factor, when combined with fear factor number 1A: Fear of change, the unknown, and fear of losing all those things that are certain, work to keep one locked in place. It is very, very hard to truly follow what are the oft-repeated spiritual principles and “trust the Universe” and “let go, live in the present and don’t worry about or focus on the outcome.” Unless one has had experiences that allows them to do this, it’s extremely difficult to basically have blind faith; blind faith that all

will be ok if they make a change in their life path. One thing I’ve been taught, and followed, and then experienced, is to take small steps to building faith. At first, one’s faith is “blind.” But if one tries a small thing, one with little risk, and Universe responds and all is ok, then the person builds faith that the Universe is there to support them. So they try again, and this time their act is not totally based on “blind” faith. There is some “evidence” the Universe will support them. If this time the Universe responds again, the faith becomes deeper. This again cycles upward until one is confident that they will be ok if they take a risk

such as a major path change. But that first step, is very scary, very challenging. So people wait until pushed, and if they wait too long, the push is a shove, or like with me, a kick in the rear!

EM: You’ve attributed your life altering changes to an “Order” to which you belonged, revealing how “It changed everything.

The teachings I received from them over the course of 20 years shaped me, my worldview, and my life philosophy. Those teachings gave me the foundation for all my abilities to manifest what I wanted...” Can

“

I have learned that there are certain laws, or rules that exist on, and guide or control our physical plane of existence, and that included in these laws are some we can learn which will help us to direct the flow of energy and thereby assist us in manifesting what we desire.

“

you share a philosophy you gained from this experience that was particularly impactful for you? What was the teaching most central to your success?

JS: At a core level, I firmly believe that everything is One. If we drill down to the smallest piece of matter that exists in the universe, it is the building block for everything. And I believe in this one thing that is “Everything,” what I call the One Life, or the One Force, or what many call God. Given this, I also believe that because everything, at its smallest core level is “God” we are also God. We are here as

“God” to experience this plane of existence. I also believe, that life is good. I do not believe that we are here to suffer. We are here to be challenged, that is what makes us grow, takes us forward, and upward on The Path, the path of spiritual and personal evolution. I believe that these challenges allow us, and thus God, to experience more and different things that will eventually allow us, on this plane, to experience who we truly are, God, on a different plane. Finally, and on a completely different note, I have learned that there are certain laws, or rules that exist on, and guide or control our physical plane of existence, and that

included in these laws are some we can learn which will help us to direct the flow of energy and thereby assist us in manifesting what we desire.

EM: To what do you ascribe the power of crystals? Do you believe everyone should learn to work with them?

JS: Crystals can be directors of energy. Energy is vibration. All matter at its core is very small particles vibrating. Crystals can enhance and direct this vibration, or energy. We use energy in an infinite variety of ways, and crystals can assist in those uses. As to whether people www.facethecurrent.com

45

“

Crystals can be directors of energy. Energy is vibration. All matter at its core is very small particles vibrating. Crystals can enhance and direct this vibration, or energy. We use energy in an infinite variety of ways, and crystals can assist in those uses.

EM: You’ve said “It is important to honor and respect the crystals we are entrusted with and in return, give the Earth gratitude for the beautiful stones.” How does one show honor and respect to a special stone, and how might a person give the Earth gratitude – both for crystals and the Earth in

46

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

“

should learn to work with them, that is a completely individual thing. If it resonates, yes; if not, no. It’s no different than anything else.

general?

JS: Treat the stone with love and respect as you would any living thing. The crystals are “living;” the energy that comprises them is moving. It’s just on a different level than what most normally consider as “living.” But treat the crystals the same as anything in the human, animal or vegetable kingdom. By loving the crystals and the earth, blessing them, cleaning them, appreciating them, we show our gratitude in the deepest way possible.

EM: What’s the most important ‘gift’ that your work with crystals has brought to you?

JS: My answer is two-fold. First, crystals have brought me a new life, new friends, and new experiences. They have grown and evolved me. I can now say something that I could not say as an attorney: I love what I do. Second, one of the modalities I used as part of my cancer healing process was Pranic Healing. In this, a crystal wand was used to direct energies to assist

in my healing. I could actually feel the energy as it coursed through portions of my body as directed by this crystal wand. In this way, I would say that I experienced a “gift” from the assistance of that crystal wand.

EM: Most of your crystals are larger specimens. Some are very large- up to 8 feet across! Do your clients for crystals of this size report any interesting phenomenon once they’re home? What would you advise for someone who feels

like they’d like to carry a much smaller one with them all the time?

JS: Some of the crystals are upwards of 7-8 feet tall, and others a few feet across. But to answer your questions, no, we have not had any such reports relating to the large crystals. As for keeping a small crystal at one’s side on a regular basis, I would certainly encourage that if a person feels so inclined. If one is open to receiving the energetic vibrations of the crystals, then keeping it with them

can allow them to more frequently and more strongly receive those vibrations.

EM: In addition to crystals, your store carries some amazing artwork. Some of it has aspects of indigenous spirituality to it (Lindsay Carron’s breathtaking work, for example). What would you say to someone concerned with cultural misappropriation?

JS: I find this an odd question. I www.facethecurrent.com

47

wasn’t sure of the meaning of “cultural appropriation” so I looked it up. Here are two definitions I found: *Cultural appropriation, often framed as cultural misappropriation, is a concept in sociology dealing with the adoption of the elements of a minority culture by members of the dominant culture. It is distinguished from equal cultural exchange due to the presence of a colonial element and imbalance of power. *The act of taking or using things from a culture that is not your own, especially without showing that you understand or

48

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

respect this culture: Some see his use of African music as cultural appropriation.

majority on this, but it’s what comes to mind thinking about it now.

As I write this answer, what comes to my mind is this: Why is anyone possessive about his or her cultural heritage. Why wouldn’t a culture want another culture to incorporate it into theirs unless it is being manipulated to a bad or harmful purpose? To say “It’s not his, or hers or theirs, so they can’t use it” seems strange, and again, possessive to me. For me, it’s more about how something is being used than the fact of using it. Maybe I’m not in the

EM: You are very involved with each and every stone that makes its way to your store. Why is this important to you?

JS: I care deeply about all I do. I take great care in what I think, what I say, and the actions I take. This is at the core of my engagement with life; a core philosophy of mine. It really goes with the answers to the first question of this interview. My work with the crystals is no different. I think that by taking such care, paying

such attention to all details in life, has made me, and will make anyone who does this, have what might generally be said as a “more successful” and “happier” life.

EM: What are some of the most valuable things you’ve learned in your travels to the mines and stone-cutters of Central and South America?

JS: The people of Brazil and Uruguay, at least the ones I’ve met, are wonderful people, full of love and life, and they love and care about their stones. They truly enjoy them,

and their work with them. Oh, and Brazilians and Uruguayans eat a lot of meat!

EM: How would one use a crystal to assist in selftransformation, and where do you advise people to go to learn more about how to use them?

JS: This is a very personal and individual question. There is no single answer. I would advise them to read, both books, and online articles, and then “feel;” feel what seems right to them, what is aligned with them, what resonates with them. Work with,

and use of crystals for any purpose, like moving energy, is a something that can only be experienced and described by the person doing it, and as every individual is unique, so will their work with crystals be unique.

ymore info: www.mysticjourneycrystals.com Facebook & Instagram: @mysticjourneycrystals Twitter: @mysticjourneyla www.facethecurrent.com

49

FtC culture

How To Transform Your Life

From A Fear Based Reality To A Love Based Reality

By Matt Belair Have you every stopped and considered how much time you live in your head and how much time you live in your heart? It’s a simple question that when truly reflected upon change your life. At its core, what we are considering is your fundamental navigating system of reality.

The mind, logic, thinking, and memory to learn from the past and predict the future are all necessary and useful tools for navigating life.The number one goal of the mind is survival. As hunters and gatherers if one of our tribe got attacked and killed by a lion we could use our minds to begin to come up with solutions to learn from this experience.The problem is that when we stay in the place of fear for too long it begins to hijack our energy system and way of being. At it’s roots it is coming to grips with your own mortality.The mind wants to survive and live, the heart knows you are an eternal being.

50

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

“

“

If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency and vibration.

-Tesla

The Heart Math Institute has done extensive scientific research and investigation into the effect the heart has on the mind, body and life experience. One of the most important discoveries was the fact that your heart sends more information to your brain then your brain does to the heart. So what does this mean?

If you are in a state of fear, lack, depression, confusion, stress, anxiety or anything similar you are in your head.Your brain hijacks your

autonomic nervous system and the brain produces chemicals that it then sends to the body. When we are constantly worried about how we are going to pay our bills, how to defend against all the murderers, robbers, terrorists, we continually send these chemicals to the body and we are living in a fear response. All our life force energy is being used to protect ourselves and we do not have any left over energy for growth. Most people live in a constant vibrational resonance of discomfort, stress or unease.

Let’s contemplate a different view of navigating life for a moment. Rather than viewing life from the level of the mind in the sense that you are what you have, what you do for work, how much perceived security you have, how many friends, goals imagined or achieved or any external factor.

Instead view your day to day from the perspective of your body. Tesla said, “If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency and vibration.”

www.facethecurrent.com

51

The truth about your physical existence is that you are non-physical.

Nothing in this reality is actual physical and scientists can prove that atoms flicker in and out of existence.

Interestingly enough this is the same conclusion and knowing Buddha and yogis have already come to. If we can accept the truth that we are nonphysical beings but in fact we are vibrational, our next thought will be what is my anchor point or guidance system from navigating reality from a

“

vibrational perspective? The answer is your feelings and emotions.

The mind fundamentally separates you from everything else and continuously tries in vein to make sense of everything that is happening in your life and you can get caught in a mental loop, this will cause your bodies natural intelligence to become obstructed. Since we live in a dimension of free will and you can choose to shift your perspective

from navigating reality from the guidance system of mind into the body and the heart. This intelligence is far superior than that of the mind.

Yes, we still want to use mind but we want to ensure that it is taking orders from the heart and not the other way around. The body is like a multi-dimensional, quantum super computer and when you learn to listen to it and trust it, your life will change.

The truth about your physical existence is that you are non-physical. Nothing in this reality is actual physical and scientists can prove that atoms flicker in and out of existence. Interestingly enough this is the same conclusion and knowing that Buddha and yogis have already come to.

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

“

52

I invite you now, to take a quick personal inventory on how you experience your day-to-day life: On a scale of 1-10 How often do you feel peaceful throughout the day?

How much stress do you feel each day?

How much anxiety do you feel each day?

How much joy do you feel each day?

How much excitement do you feel each day?

How much gratitude do you feel each day?

How hopeful are you about life?

How strong do you feel a connection to nature/source/spirit/God?

“

as a child, felt no self-love or worth, drank consistently and lived in fear.

If they began to heal their past, reconnect with themselves, listened to their bodies, shifted their mindset toward growth, healing and service, how fast would their reality shift?

The same goes for a person who constantly lives in anxiety, worry, fear and doubt as they rush about life never really considering how they feel as they move about their days.

The shift of awareness into the body would be dramatic.

Let’s go one step further and look at what experiencing life would look and feel like if we handed over the reigns to our heart. Our heart

is controlled by the autonomic nervous system and beats without any thought needed. We are kept alive by a universal life force, prana, spirit, Tao, God or whatever you’d like to call it. This means that the heart is connected with all life and is always in natural flow. We recognize when we are out of alignment when our body is not in a state of peace, relaxation, presence or vitality. Sadly, most people have forgotten what it feels like to live in a state of peace because their minds have succumbed to the fear based virus of society and external influences.Your growth, joy, passion and zest for life was stunted by believing in the fear that was being sold to you about life.

“

There is a great chance you have heard people talk about raising your vibration. We live in a universe where certain laws apply. The law of attraction states that I attract to my life whatever I give my attention, energy and focus to, whether negative or positive. In this reality the universe will always match the vibration. If you are constantly in the state of worry, fear and lack the universe will match that vibration and bring you more of the same. If you are in the state of abundance, joy, gratitude, growth and excitement, the universe will match that vibration as well.

Imagine a person who was abused

The heart is connected with all life and is always in natural flow.

We recognize when we are out of alignment when our body is not in a state of peace, relaxation, presence or vitality. www.facethecurrent.com

53

“

As you continually move into the body and heart in the same way the heart beats itself, LIFE will take care of you naturally without effort. In Zen they’ll use the example of a tree growing without effort, thought, or worry.

This may seem a little bit ungrounded to those who do not live in this harmonious state. It isn’t to suggest

54

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

“

When you become mindful of how you feel you begin to consciously give power to your body, which in turn means, nature or divine intelligence or LIFE. Life is naturally co-operative and sustainable. The mind run by fear is in a position of competition, acquisition, and separateness. The next process will be the natural letting go of old limiting beliefs and moving into more surrender, peace and purpose. As you continually move into the body and heart in the same way the heart beats itself, LIFE will take care of you naturally without effort. In Zen they’ll use the example of a tree growing without effort, thought, or worry.

life gets easier, or you stop using logic and thinking critically. The monumental and life changing shift is when you connect with your heart, which is connected to LIFE, you connect with your true self.You begin to honour your spirit and your own expression in the world and from this perspective a fear based, monotonous reality just won’t cut it.

You begin to listen to the inner voice, connect with states of joy and grow as a spirit in harmony with all life. We begin to connect more with our joy and we use logic and critical thinking to bring our creations to the world!

Joy and gratitude are two of the highest vibrations and the universe is always supporting and encouraging you to be in that frequency. When you live from joy and gratitude you

are naturally supportive to all life and the ecosystem around you. Rather than taking energy and resources from others you now become an energetic and physical producer rather than consumer.You are giving and receiving, rather than taking and holding.

So how do you make the shift? One moment at a time. It is through our free will we can navigate and influence our reality. If you wake up and are in a rat race of stress and anxiety, it means you have given your power/ energy to an agenda that is not your own. When you connect back to your heart and inner guidance you begin to navigate life according to your own terms. Dr. Joe Dispenza says,

“Where you place your attention, you place your energy.”

It is through the conscious free will choice of placing your energy into the heart, into the body, on nature, joy and harmony we give control back to our natural navigation system which is connected to divine intelligence.You are never disconnected but you may not have been listening.

I can hear the mind wanting more to do, a task list, a process, and all of the questions of security arising. They are all valid but what’s more important and powerful is the fact that when you begin to become mindful of how your body feels, take action to shift your awareness to gratitude, joy, excitement and begin to do things that make your body feel that way naturally, life will unfold automatically. The mind has been and always will be the observer of life, the truth is you never had control to begin with. When you begin to follow this guidance you realize you are connected to all life in the universe, you are a part of whole and there is nothing to be afraid of because the universe will always support you. Like a universal game following one bread crumb at a time we find our way back home to love, peace, and harmony.

When we have the courage to make that leap and walk the path we begin to see the magic of life. We realize it was always there and connect with the power and magnitude of this awe inspiring force.

Life is precious and you are powerful, have the courage to be who you ARE!

“

We are a powerful, multidimensional creator connected to divine source and all of creation. Have faith in yourself, life and all of creation and the universe will support you.

The meditation below will help feel and see what your life could be from the perspective of your heart.

“

A pure heart opened to light will be connected to the very essence of truth.

-Rumi

ymore info: www.ZenAthlete.com www.MattBelair.com https://soundcloud.com/belair-3/heartjourney-creation-explaination https://soundcloud.com/belair-3/theheart-journey-experience-nature-sounds https://soundcloud.com/belair-3/heartjourney-daily-reality-creation

www.facethecurrent.com

55

FtC culture

The Unified Spacememory Network: An Impetus To Transform Our Thinking

By William Brown, Biophysicist at the Resonance Science Foundation

What is the nature of space and time?

A major part of the ethos of the Resonance Science Foundation and the unifying principles of its scientific advancements is to promote and facilitate transformational awareness. It begins with the science that is overcoming the biggest hurdles and outstanding conundrums of current theory by showing---both theoretically and through mathematical and empirical verification---that all things are intrinsically and integrally connected.

This means that we cannot hope to

56

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

understand the most intricate and fundamental domains of the cosmos by modeling systems as isolated and independent. To many, this may seem like an obvious inference, yet looking at the current state of science it is very much predicated on a disconnected world-view where randomness is the prevailing factor underlying most all processes.

The reductionist method has been impressively successful in many ways, yet we cannot hope to progress with these obviously erroneous

perspectives that characterize the disconnected world-view. As such, we need a transformation in how we view the world and our connection to it---a transformation of awareness. The connected worldview promulgated by Haramein’s Resonance Science Foundation and the global community that he has united is a potent impetus for innovative thinking and promoting the change in perspective that is so critically needed at this juncture in humanity’s progress to the future.

What is matter, and what is its source

Why does the universe have the order that is observed?

Of particular note is the recent publication examining principles of unitary biophysics and consciousness science: The Unified Spacememory Network: From Cosmogenesis to Consciousness; published in the peer-reviewed journal of NeuroQuantology. This study demonstrates how self-organizational principles are engendered from an underlying order---a network that is formed from the structure of spacetime itself. With an elucidation of the structure of spacetime at the

most fundamental levels we show how elementary properties are engendered, such as what mass is and the source of the confinement energy to form stable boundary conditions of the field that we call particles.

Importantly, the solution only works if there is ubiquitous information exchange among all the elements of the cosmos.

What this information exchange network of spacetime shows is that there is no true randomness, every unit of the system is informed of

the state of all other units and--even though some processes might appear chaotic to our limited senses--there is a constant orchestration occurring via the natural feed- back and feedforward action of the system.

Now, this feedback-feedforward dynamic of natural self- organization is a key characteristic of another salient element---awareness, strongly suggesting that what we call consciousness may have roots deep within the natural intrinsic ordering processes of the universe. www.facethecurrent.com

57

58

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

The picture is completed when we consider the memory properties of the field: in order for there to be a cohesive sequence of cause-andeffect, a causal order, or what we call time, there must be an inherent memory function to the spacetime

manifold. Considering this point, a redefinition is required such that spacetime becomes spacememory: hence the moniker The Unified Spacememory Network. Now we see that we have all the basic elements for awareness present in

Mark Miller, a doctoral staudent at Brandeis University, is researching how particular types of neurons in the brain are connected to one another.

By staining thin slices of a mouse’s brain, he can indentify the connection visually. The image above shows three neuron cells on the left (two red and one yellow) and their connections

the very fabric of the cosmos. This understanding is a major force for a significant transformation in how we view ourselves and our connection to the universe.

An international group of astrophysicists used a computer simulation last year to recreate how the universe grew and evolved. The simulation image above is a portion of the present universe that features a large cluster of galaxies (bright yellow) surrounded by thousands of yet more galaxies, stars, and dark matter www.facethecurrent.com

59

When we understand that our state of awareness is not merely an epiphenomenological emergent property of the electrochemical activity of neuronal networks in the brain, but instead is coupled to the most integral and foundational domains of the physico-informational structure of the universe, it reinforces the transformational idea that our state of being, what we occupy our awareness with, is not trivial and inconsequential. The state of our being affects us down to the cellular and molecular level and has cascading consequences all the way from how we comport ourselves to how the universe responds to the information we are “feeding it”, and hence what is “fed-back” in our experience. This may very well be the transformational idea that is most needed for humanity’s prosperous advancement into the future.

60

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

ymore info: The Unified Spacememory Network: From Cosmogenesis To Consciousness, Journal of Neuroquantology: www.neuroquantology.com Vol 14, No 4 (2016) > Haramein Resonance Science Foundation: https://resonance.is Resonance Science Academy: https://academy.resonance.is The Connection Universe Film, a documentary film written and directed by Malcom Carter, narrated by Sir Patrick Stewart and featuring the research of physicist Nassim Haramein: http://getconnected.resonance.is

o t e ib r c s b u s ! e u s don’t Miss An is , h t n o M h c A e y p o c to receive your . x o b in r u o y o t t h delivered rig rent

r u c e h t e c A f t n e r r u fAce the c 8

February 201

Issue 16

Flow Edition

FIT NE SS SP OR TS &

|

HE ALTH

SNESS CONSCIOU W O L F R E T AS HOW TO M DREAM LIFE

TR AV EL

CU LT UR E

|

MU SIC

|

|

UR

TO LIVE YO

usness w Conscio der of Flo

Institute,

man Justin Faer

With Foun

rip!

FtC RoaIDEdt TO ARIZONA IN DEPTH GU

ms & hidden ge Hot Spots

ow Finding fl music through

+

n d state ca heightene How this & sport ur fitness enhance yo

in sitive change ...inspiring po

Thinking Transform te a in im El To Flow + Barriers To th eativity wi er Cr Ignite Inn exander ich & Dr. Al Ora Nadr

the world

NOT JUST A MAGAZINE “FUEL FOR AN INSPIRED LIFE. BE YOUR POTENTIAL.” click to subscribe

or scan Read us on issuu (click logo to go)

www.facethecurrent.com

Available at www.facethecurrent.com (click logo to go)

61

FtC culture

Neural Coupling and Love Potions?

-Stories And How You Can Use Their Power To Influence And InspireBy Ankha Marza

Can you imagine your childhood without stories? Your life without stories?

Stories are the fabric of life. They are stories of our hearts, minds and souls, conscious and subconscious streams of thoughts, feelings and words, of light and shadow, that clothe our lives and fuel our dreams.

Reading and listening to stories were my absolute favorite things growing up.

62

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

I remember this one particular evening, when I was about 4 years old. It is bedtime, which for me is code for story time! I’m so excited waiting to see what world of wonder awaits. Maybe my dad will share one of those magical stories that I can see he doesn’t read from a book.

Everyone else holds a book when they tell me a story, my dad rarely does. But this evening I can tell both my mom and dad are particularly tired. My mom is holding me in her arms as my dad reaches for a book, puts his glasses on and starts reading…

“Once upon time in a land far away there lived a….” He barely gets a sentence in and can’t stop yawning.

Another couple of sentences and a lot more yawns later he tries to pass the book to my mom... but she’s already asleep! So my dad looks at me and says softly: “Sweetheart would you please be ok if we skip the story this evening… I promise we’ll do two stories instead tomorrow.”

I consider his offer for a moment and then decisively say to him: “Dad just pass me the glasses, I’ll read the story tonight myself!”

Yes in my 4-year-old mind, glasses were what made reading stories happen. My grandparents, parents, kindergarten teacher, every grown up in my world put them on every time they read.

That evening and ever since I’ve learned that glasses are not the super

power. Our hearts, minds and souls are our super power. Our stories, how we use them and tell them are our super power.

So what stories are you telling yourself and what are you telling others and the world? Are they stories that engage and empower, influence and inspire? Do they ignite and create more good, evolution and transformation in your life and that of others? www.facethecurrent.com

63

“

“

The stories of your heart and soul are your super powers. Use them to awaken, influence and inspire, yourself and the world.

And do you reach into your bag of stories when you’re sharing you with the world? Whether you’re doing a presentation, a pitch, giving a speech in front of an audience large or small, wishing to influence and persuade your fellow board members or clients?

Stories are as old as human kind.

They feel as old as time and define our humanity and becoming. They will always hold the power to influence and inspire, engage and empower when chosen and told well.

64

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

Because human beings are wired for stories. Neurologically, we are wired to respond to stories and our brains become more active and engaged when we hear stories.

Neuroscience has shown that speaker and audience experience a process called neural coupling where their neurons start firing in the same patterns and become synchronized.

This is part of the science behind the connection and influence that the world’s most charismatic speakers and communicators use. This is

how you will create connection and engagement with your audience, whether you’re speaking to a huge audience, a small group or one to one.

A neurochemical responsible for empathy, care and social bonding is released in this process. It happens to be oxytocin, the neurotransmitter that’s also known as “the love hormone”.

So yes, stories are love potions, when chosen and told well.

“

Neurologically, we are wired to respond to stories and our brains become more active and engaged when we hear stories. Neuroscience has shown that speaker and audience experience a process called neural coupling where their neurons start firing in the same patterns and become synchronized. This is how you will create connection and engagement with your audience, whether you’re speaking to a huge audience, a small group or one to one. A neurochemical responsible for empathy, care and social bonding is released in this process. It happens to be oxytocin, the neurotransmitter that’s also known as “the love hormone.”

“

How does a story well told look and feel like? You know it every time you experience it. It’s authentic and personal, it has lots of details, dialogue, emotional relevance, cultural sensitivity and a clear, aligned purpose.

The stories of your heart and soul are your super powers. Use them to awaken, influence and inspire, yourself and the world.

ymore info: Ankha Marza is an internationally renowned public speaking coach and communication strategist. Ankha has coached Royalty, Presidents and Vice Presidents of countries and corporations, Presidential Candidates, First Ladies, Parliament and Cabinet Members, Hollywood celebrities, Fortune 500 executives, sales and nonprofit organizations, youth and women leadership groups, CEOs and their teams in the US and worldwide. Her work and client base span over 50 countries and 6 continents.

www.speakyourpower.com www.facethecurrent.com

65

FtC culture

The President vs Punchlines

By Michael Malone

In clubs, colleges, and theaters across America, comedians are approached by fans every night to compliment their set and dole out unsolicited advice about what could have worked better. This isn’t a new occurrence. But there is one line that I and comedian friends of mine have been subjected to more and more with each passing weekend…

“Loved your Trump jokes. Man if nothing else, at least Donald Trump has been GREAT for comedy.”

And although, more often than not, myself and other comedians will politely nod or shrug off the sentiment, our opinion couldn’t be further on the opposite side of the spectrum. So, allow me to address this myth once and for all: No, Donald Trump is absolutely, definitely, 100% not good for comedy. Here’s why.

Once upon a time, there used to just be just a select few of topics that were not palatable to the American comedy crowd: Religion, abortion, rape… And for some reason Michael Jackson jokes never worked either. America loves Michael Jackson. But under the regime of “The Donald,” our country is more divided than ever.

And both sides are losing.

Right after Donald Trump took office, I sat down with Cleveland’s own, Ramon Rivas II.You’ve seen Ramon on Comedy Central,

66

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

Getting Doug with High (That’s not a typo) and Vice News. While we were catching up, we discussed the radical shift we’d both experienced on the road — this newfound sensitivity of audiences that seemed to be taking over in the new Trump era.

“I try and talk about issues on stage...” Ramon told me. “Now, whether you agree with me or not, I’m saying things in a way that you can understand where I’m coming from, which I think is a powerful thing to kind of humanize a different experience.”

Comedy for the masses is about finding that relatable commonality we all share and pointing out its absurdity. But more and more, we’re becoming a nation that is unwilling to share common ground with anyone they deem to be outside their political ideology.

of exactly the point. Donald Trump isn’t good for comedy. The man claims to be a straight-shooter and someone who values politically incorrect outsiders, but if you speak in opposition or have a different opinion, you’re deemed the enemy.

And suddenly your views aren’t valid.

Great comedy works because the audience and the comedian both enter a club with a mutual agreement: they both agree to be a little uncomfortable at some point in the night to get to the funny. There may be a couple jokes that are too raunchy for your taste or fly in the face of your religion, but ultimately it’s with one goal in mind: to point

out the absurdity in everything.

Whether that’s religion, politics, your relationship with your wife, your inlaws, or your kid.

Look, it doesn’t matter who’s getting made fun of right now, because guess what? You’re next. Comedy doesn’t play favorites, it just aims for absurdity. Put your guard down, get uncomfortable and let’s all try and laugh together. Again.

ymore info: More Info: www.malonecomedy.com Social: @malonecomedy

Ramon explained how this all came to a head while he was performing in Cleveland, Ohio shortly after the city had hosted the Republican National Convention in 2016 that formally made Donald Trump the presidential nominee. Ramon had a few jokes that took aim at Trump, but ultimately those jokes were being used to shine a light on his experience as a minority observing the man who would ultimately become our 45th president.

“I’m not going up there like ‘f*** people who voted for Trump’ ...I’m trying to explain why I’m concerned about it,” Ramon explained.

Before his set was done, a feisty white woman walked out and demanded the attention of every manager and staff person she could find to complain that Ramon “should not be talking politics at all” and that the club should have warned that there would be political humor.

Which, by the way, can we just take a moment to acknowledge how absurd this is coming from the party that claims to be at war with “Politically Correct Culture.” And that’s kind www.facethecurrent.com Michael Malone.

Photo credit: J Ryan Faber67

HAPI Drum Mini.

Recommended for beginner, intermediate, and advanced players. The HAPI Mini is our highest voiced drum, great for rhythmic melodies. It is our smallest and most compact drum. These little ones have a big sound at a small price! It’s so easy to bring it along anywhere you go. Play it in the park, bring it over to a friends house, or take it camping. Fits in day packs for easy travel and even has its own optional padded bag for transport and storage.

click on cart or scan qr to shop product

FtC fAce the current

MUSIC

70. Kirbanu Reflections: Aligning With

Your Truth Where Life Begins 78. Dynasty Electrik Blurring Genres And

Harmonizing Chakras 82. Yoga For Musicians Featuring Shae Brock 88. the most sophisticated house music

68

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

Available in 2 different pentatonic scales: C Major (C4, D4, E4, G4, A4, C5, D5, E5) D Akebono (D4, E4, F4, A4, Bb4, D5, E5, F5) The word “pentatonic” comes from the Greek word pente meaning five and tonic meaning tone. It is a musical scale that consists of five notes within one octave.

Because of their arrangement, pentatonic scales are often used to introduce beginners to music.

Features:

Dimensions:

Specially selected musical steel using our custom molded shape.

Sound isolating rubber feet located on the bottom of the drum so you can set it on any surface to play.

A bottom port that helps let the sound out to fill the room.

8” (20.5 cm) wide by 5.5” (13.97 cm) high.

Weight: 3.4 lbs (1.54 kg)

Color:

Hammered Copper - the copper color and hammered texture can vary slightly from drum to drum due to the hand mixing process of the paint. Each one is unique! This is a durable protective layer for your drum that adds a cool “stone” finished texture.

click on cart or scan qr to shop product

WATCH VIDEO www.facethecurrent.com

69

FtC music

Kirbanu Reflections: Aligning With Your Truth Where Life Begins Interview By Eric Marley Author and teacher Joseph Campbell spoke of the “Hero’s Journey.” It includes a moment when a person feels called so strongly to pursue their life’s work that they can no longer stay on their current course. It doesn’t matter the cost, nor does the past matter; the one called simply forges ahead, relying on whatever tools they possess or can develop along the way.This type of journey can often be considered something worth celebrating. Kirbanu has certainly found this to be true in her life.Trained as a scientist, and in the middle of her Master’s Thesis, her call came in the form of an irrepressible desire to follow in her father’s globetrotting footsteps and explore her profound interest in music. Since answering this calling, she has lived in six countries in just twelve years and made a career out of her music. In our interview with Kirbanu we look at the relationship between science, traveling and music and discuss the value in ‘facing the current’ if it helps us to identify our true callings and align with our most meaningful paths- which, she declares, is when life really begins. Read on, and be inspired to embark on, or continue, your own ‘Hero’s Journey!’

70

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

The tendency in life is that we follow the ‘current’ that flows in the direction that society, our parents, and other influential factors tell us it should. Sometimes we’re able to align and flow with this same current in a way that feels right for us too- but if it doesn’t? Facing the current to go against what everyone is telling you is right for you and your life can be an incredible challenge. That ‘current’ can be so strong; it can force you to believe that it really is the right way to ‘flow.’ You’ve experienced

this in your life, having said: “So many people told me I couldn’t. Told me I shouldn’t.

So many people doubted me that I often doubted myself.

Doubt slows you down. So lose it.

When I did, that’s when my life started happening In the way I wanted it to.”

Eric Marley: In what ways did it become obvious to you that your “life started happening” and how did it feel for you?

Kirbanu: For me ease was a sign that things were going in the right

direction. Doors began to open where I didn’t realize there were any.

People came into my life whose skills were an exact fit to projects I had begun. I started getting offered work instead of feeling like I was fighting for it. Overall, life felt more enjoyable and more in a state of my own flow, rather than one that felt forced upon me.

EM: As an Australian based in Germany, who has lived in 6 countries in 12 years, what sparked the nomadic lifestyle in you? How has this lifestyle transformed you as a person, and would you recommend it? www.facethecurrent.com

71

Kirbanu: When I was 10 years old my father got a job working as a director for an American company.

The job meant that he traveled 85% of the year. Airports became a part of my life at this time. My mother and I would drop dad off, then pick him up a month later. He would disappear behind glass walls into places that I could only imagine. As a child this was fascinating to me.

Sometimes dad would travel alone, other times he traveled with colleagues. He often brought business guests from all over the world back home to meet us. They would bring gifts with them for me – little cultural trinkets from their corners of the world. I became intrigued with the world that lay on the “other side” of the airport; the one at the other end of the flight path. I began to dream about it. I longed to get on a plane too. I longed to see other places.

I believe this experience is what triggered my yearning to travel.

72

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

I first traveled solo when I was 20. I’d just finished my Bachelors degree and moved to Canada. This experience changed my life. It was the first time in my life where I didn’t have to achieve anything academically – where I could just be me, exactly as I am without the need to please others or perform. Separated from life as a knew it, from the world of meaning that I had built up around myself based upon the roles I was conditioned to playing, a huge vacant space unfurled within me. I finally understood that everything I had worked for – good grades, pleasing others, living out stories, being a “good girl” – it was completely meaningless. I realized that despite 15 years of education, I didn’t actually have any life skills. I didn’t know how to live. I didn’t know who I was. I didn’t know who I wanted to become. I barely knew what was important to me.

to be shattered in order to make space for me to get to know the person I wanted to become. This is the power of travel. This is the power of being a nomad: stepping outside of our conditioning from our culture, family and friends. We make space for the unknown to present itself to us, and we meet it with the curious wonder of a child.

At this time the person I knew myself

EM: You went to school to be

Without the experiences I had, and continue to have through my travels, I wouldn’t be who I am today.

Traveling gave me the courage to believe in myself. It gave me the space to find myself and to trust in my inner voice. It re-connected me to the depth of who I am and to the pulse of life and the world around us. It made me open minded and tolerant to “different” people and experiences. And so many of these transformational experiences have found life within my music.

“

The person I knew myself to be shattered in order to make space for me to get to know the person I wanted to become. This is the power of travel. This is the power of being a nomad: stepping outside of our conditioning from our culture, family and friends.

We make space for the unknown to present itself to us, and we meet it with the curious wonder of a child.

“

a scientist, but then felt called by music, noting “I realized that I would never be happy until I followed that call.” What was the process like for you to disengage from something in which you’d invested so much time to pursue a mostly selftaught music career?

Kirbanu: The decision itself to disengage was quicker than the speed of light. I was in the middle of writing my masters thesis. I remember feeling frustrated with the process, so for the first time, I tuned deeper into my frustration. I sought to understand it. What came back to me was a strong and clear realization that I’d been living my life for everyone else, rather than for myself. I realized that completing my Masters was also just a band aid. It was a lie. I saw that I didn’t truly want it. And what I realized clearly instead, was that I wanted to be a musician. I felt that my soul couldn’t find peace until I had

sought a path out for myself in music.

The lingering beliefs that hindered me were not so much based around a career in science, but rather based around being a well trained academic and “good girl.” As a selfemployed musician, as in any other self-employed industry, you need to harness your business senses.

The challenge for me has been in overcoming “the need for approval” and the “need for someone else to tell me what to do” I’ve had to develop my curiosity and drive.

I’ve needed to learn how to be my own boss and well as employee.

I’ve needed to understand how to manage myself, and the ways in which I work best. I’ve had to learn how to be responsible for myself and for what I want to create in the world.

These were very challenging lessons for me to take on board.

EM: In your song “I’ll Take My Leave Here,” you speak to the

idea of letting go of what was, and jumping into the unknown with a sense of curiosity and wonder. In addition to the inspiration in this song, what advice might you give to those who feel called to an interest or passion, but may be afraid to take that leap?

Kirbanu: At first I would say that you have this body and this mind just once. In every second that passes your life is ticking by. The fact that you made it here is already a miracle and the world deserves to see and to appreciate the gifts that you bring forth to bear. Don’t hold yourself back. Everything you need is already within you. Believe in yourself.

It’s natural to be afraid. We are wired to fear the unknown, and it’s what’s kept us alive as a species. But you are not fighting for your life now.

You are safe. Take a risk – you may fall, but you may also fly and that www.facethecurrent.com

73

WATCH VIDEO Kirbanu | Live Music Video - I’ll Take My Leave Here

In addition to this I would recommend some practical advice: start small.You don’t have to jump backwards, or naked, into the deep end.You can pick one thing within that interest or passion, and start there. Start with ten minutes a day and build up your skills, vision and perhaps even business, over time.

Being consistent and slowly working strategically towards your goal can have a much more profound impact, and be psychologically easier in the long run. And don’t forget to be kind to yourself in the process.

EM: Science seems like a unique basis for a musical life; one is fact-based and the other, more creative. What disciplines from your science education have you been able to apply to your musical life?

Kirbanu: The language of music actually reminds me of science.

In some ways it is structured and

74

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

has certain requirements, just like conducting a scientific experiment has. With music you are looking to create something unique, that didn’t exist before, and with science you seek to either discover something new, or to disprove a belief. Within both there is an eloquence and beauty.

I think analysis and critical thinking, both skills I acquired within my science education, have helped me to be a better songwriter. Within the songwriting process there is a time for creative flow – to allow whatever unfolds to unfold – and a time for analysis – to analytically examine what has unfolded and to intentionally shape it into something with more structure. It is a dance between intuition and analysis.

Science has definitely helped me with the latter.

“

Surrender. Surrender into LOVE. It’s not easy to do. I often fear this even though I long for it.

Surrender requires being totally vulnerable. Being exposed. Risk.

Life can be scary. Human interaction can be terrifying.

But in the end I feel we all want the same thing: to love and be loved.

LOVE without attachment. LOVE without neediness. LOVE without fear.

“

indeed would be a marvelous sight to behold.

EM: What do you suggest as the first step towards “surrendering into love?” What experiences have you had personally that reveal how we all share in the desire to love and be loved?

Kirbanu: Learn to love yourself.

That is the first step. And to do that you’re going to need to forgive yourself. Forgive yourself for everything you hold against your own heart. Develop self-compassion. See

that all of these things that you judge yourself for, all the large and small knives you use against yourself – consciously or sub-consciously – they are not who you are. They are just ways of thinking and behaving that you learned along the way. Create space around them. Have compassion for the scars you’ve collected on the battlefield of life. Through that compassion, love yourself for who you are, for that beautiful spark that is you and only you.

As a traveler and as a performing artist, I’ve met so many people on my journey. We may come from different cultures. We may divide ourselves under the banner of varying labels,

Instagram. I share posts almost daily on both platforms. I create regular vlog-like stories on Instagram and do a weekly “Tuesday Night Live Hangout” on my Facebook page and do a Vlog on my YouTube channel, to stay connected. In addition to my artist page, I have a Facebook group called “Kirbanu Tribe,” where EM: As you “value your I share more personal, behind the connection with your audience scenes, elements of my life and above all else,” what are some I’m also on Patreon, where I share of the things you do to enhance new songs, lyrics, poems and the this connection and maintain it innermost reflections of my mind. beyond the live show or concert? All of these actions are the ways I seek to maintain a close relationship Kirbanu: One of the main things is to my audience in between live through seeking to create valuable performances. content for my audience online. I’m very active on Facebook and on but in our hearts we are the same.

Since we are born, we all long for the same love. I think it is what makes us human – the power to connect with each other. And the biggest bond of all, is the power to love and be loved.

It’s unlimited in its force and also in its beauty.

www.facethecurrent.com

75

“

We are wired to fear the unknown, and it’s what’s kept us alive as a species.

But you are not fighting for your life now. You are safe. Take a risk – you may fall, but you may also fly and that indeed would be a marvelous sight to behold.

“

EM: In your vlog, “The Kirbanu Show: Reflections, Interviews and Ideas,” you speak with creative, joyful, positive people about their lives and ideas. What gave you this idea and what’s your favorite part of this project?

Kirbanu: I wanted to do more on YouTube than just sharing music videos when I have them. I wanted to use the platform more as a means of reaching out to connect and inspire others. So I came up with the vlog idea as a means of connecting and creating frequent content for my audience.

76

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

My vlog has different faces. One component of it is the frequent “Day in the Life of an Indie Musician” segment, where I take my audience behind the scenes and around the world with me, in my life as a songwriter and performer. The other component is the “Reflections” series, where I’ve interviewed other inspiring creative people.

The best part of the Reflections series is meeting new, uplifting people. I love hearing their stories, inspirations, challenges and learning about the ways they overcame adversity in order to establish themselves and their work in the

world. It’s incredibly inspiring for me!

EM: What does “vocal empowerment” entail that you teach in your workshops, and why do you offer this particular type of vocal training?

Kirbanu: My Vocal Freedom workshops, and the online individual trainings that I give, have been created for people to develop empowering relationships with their voices.

The work was inspired through my own journey as a vocalist. I faced personal obstacles along my path to becoming the singer that

I wanted to be. Many of them were emotional and psychological, but some were also technical. It lead me down a path of extreme research in understanding how the voice mechanically works, how we can correctly use our voices for speaking and singing, and how we can progress through our emotional and psychological blocks that hold us back from vocal empowerment.

EM: You have a full tour schedule, you write your own music, you have a couple vlogs... Does someone who loves what they do as much as you do feel a need to take breaks, a vacation from normal life? What do you do outside of music to keep your creative fires burning brightly?

“In her new EP “Echo Chamber” Kirbanu examines the metaphorical thought and social bubble we find ourselves in, which limits our ideas, perceptions and perspectives. She touches on how we are shaped by this experience as well as how we can breakthrough it.”

Kirbanu: Absolutely! I have a morning routine involving yoga and meditation that helps me to stay grounded. Otherwise, I love meeting up with friends, riding my bicycle and traveling to new places.

I still feel that travel is one of the best fodders for my creative fuel.

WATCH NOW “The Ghost of Human Decency”

ymore info:

KIRBANU - THE WAKING DAY

www.kirbanumusic.com www.youtube.com/kirbanu www.facebook.com/kirbanu www.instagram.com/kirbanu www.patreon.com/kirbanu www.kirbanu.bandcamp.com www.facethecurrent.com

77

FtC music

Dynasty Electrik Blurring Genres And Harmonizing Chakras Interview By David Aiello Throughout the ages there have always been the artists and musicians that take their audience along their journey of self-discovery and reinvention. Musical duo Dynasty Electrik is made up of Jenny Electrik and her partner Seth Misterka. A quick iTunes search reveals a long list of high quality, beautiful, diverse content – ranging from hippie folk to electronic dance and now to meditative sound healing music.

Dynasty Electrik may have a continuously transforming genre-journey, but the heart and soul of their work has never missed a beat.These two are the real deal – true blue spiritual seekers with hearts of gold.

With the powerful and alluring vocals of Jenny Electrik and a Theremin (the story of Léon Theremin, the instrument’s inventor is worth reading about!), together with multi-instrumentalist Seth Misterka, they now employ the vibrational power of sound to transport listeners to a state of deep meditation and relaxation where the chakras are balanced and the energetic body is harmonized.

Since starting as an electronic rock duo in Brooklyn, they’ve earned critical praise, been featured in television and film, and toured the globe.They now call Los Angeles home where, in addition to writing and performing as Dynasty Electrik, they regularly perform their crystal sound bath at their Crystal Gallery & Yoga Studio in Venice. Dynasty Electrik is on the leading edge – they must be tapped in to something big!

78

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

DA: What inspired your transition from party band to sound bath creators?

Dynasty Electrik: Many years ago in New York, Dynasty started off as an instrumental avant-jazz group, and we learned that it was easier to promote our music by hosting parties rather than through conventional concerts. We had a big warehouse loft in Williamsburg and it was a perfect spot for events with bands, lights, and DJs. Our style evolved and we began incorporating more elements of rock and electronic music into our sound. Eventually we became known for our high energy performances at these warehouse parties. But we have always been interested in all kinds of music and art, so after many years of playing the role of the party band we naturally evolved again and started exploring folk music and sound healing. When we left New York in 2011, it was a bit of a traumatic time for us and we naturally wanted to make some music that was relaxing and healing for ourselves. We started composing

meditative music, and we studied with a sound healer Lisa Ishwari Murphy, who encouraged and inspired us to pursue the work further. When we arrived in Los Angeles in 2016, we began performing our meditative music at yoga studios and it went so well that we took up residencies performing sound baths around town. Los Angeles is a very receptive environment for it. The transformation took a number of years, but it has been very organic and natural for us.

DA: How do you like performing at yoga studios as opposed to warehouse parties?

Dynasty Electrik: We love warehouse parties and clubs, but they are definitely raw and wild. Yoga studios are usually very clean and have a calm, spiritual energy. Not having any alcohol being served is a big part of the difference. It’s actually been a refreshing change of pace for us and we really enjoy the atmosphere of the yoga studio.

DA: So, this new phenomenon

of “sound baths,” a group meditation practice in which participants rest, relax and “bathe” in the sacred sounds of healing music. What exactly is a sound bath?

Dynasty Electrik: A sound bath is really a kind of alternate concert experience. Rather then focusing on the musicians and the surrounding atmosphere of the concert venue, the audience just lays back, closes their eyes, and focuses on their internal experience. It’s a really great opportunity to just lay back and allow the music to wash over you and take you on a journey through sound. Every sound bath is unique.

Many use singing bowls and gongs but others use electronic music. Our sound baths draw from our eclectic background and we blend traditional instruments with electronic tones.

DA: You are both highly creative, entrepreneurial, skilled people with your hands in many projects.You are a part of the founding team of Mystic Journey, and had an important role in its www.facethecurrent.com

79

inception. Now, your sound baths bring in consistent full houses of people ready to experience your musical magic. How does hosting your sound bath in the Mystic Journey Crystal Gallery enhance the experience?

Dynasty Electrik: The community in Venice is so sincere and beautiful and Mystic Journey is kind of a nice mix between an art gallery and a yoga studio, so it feels a bit like a warehouse loft, but it’s really beautiful and clean with enormous crystals and art everywhere. It has very high ceilings, and we personally had a hand in designing the sound system, so it has great acoustics and a nice sound to the space. The large crystals definitely have a positive effect as well. Many people like to be right next to a big crystal during a sound bath in order to feel its energy and presence.

80

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

DA: You two know a thing or two about crystals.Tell us a bit about the crystals in the gallery…

crystal was permanently solidified ice. Here are some metaphysical characteristics of some of the Crystals in the Gallery.

Dynasty Electrik: All of the crystals in the gallery are available for sale, so new crystals are always coming through. Most of the giant Crystal Geodes & Quartz Clusters at Mystic Journey are from Brazil and Uruguay. Brazilian quartz is the oldest on the planet, ranging in age from 500 million to 1 billion years old.

The Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Citrine, Smoky Quartz & Crystal Quartz pieces in the gallery are all forms of Quartz and have the same molecular structure- SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide).

Quartz has been known and appreciated since prehistoric times.

Rock crystal or quartz comes from the Greek word kristallos, meaning ice cold and solidify, suggesting the ancient belief that quartz

Crystals work differently for different people.These are guidelines only: -Crystal Quartz- Universal Crystal- Crystal Quartz clears and energizes the mind, body & spirit and harmonizes the environment.

It is used for healing, meditation, protection and manifestation. Crystal Quartz cleanses other crystals and dissolves negative energy.

-Rose Quartz- Stone of LoveRose Quartz heals the Heart and attracts Love. Its soft peaceful energy helps ease the emotions and encourages self-love & harmony.

Rose Quartz stimulates romantic connections and the imagination. It is a fertility crystal.

-Amethyst- Stone of Peace- Amethyst calms

Crystal Sound Bath Dynasty Electrik Album Art fears and lifts spirits. Its powerful spiritual vibration enhances higher states of consciousness and meditation. Amethyst enhances intuition, psychic awareness and healing. It is a sobriety stone.

the bowl directly over the affected area (for example, the heart).

-Citrine- Stone of AbundanceCitrine sparks the imagination and personal willpower, enhancing creativity and manifestation. Carrying the power of the sun, it is warm and comforting, energizing and life giving.

Citrine never holds negative energy, making it extremely protective for the environment.

Dynasty Electrik: People report visions of deities, dreamlike landscapes, and fantastical scenes.

Others report relief of physical injuries. Others cry and feel cleared of trauma. Others have an out-ofbody experience. Most people feel elevated, relaxed, and refreshed afterwards.

DA: Your work is very ethereal, and you have described your work as “energy medicine.”

What’s the energy exchange like during a session?

DA: How did you create your new album Crystal Sound Bath?

Dynasty Electrik: Every session is different, its all about being present. I seek to have clear and clean energy field in order to balance the energy of the audience. Sometimes I feel a telepathic connection with someone and seek to open a channel for them to release their thoughts. Sometimes our singing bowls detect harmonic disturbances in people’s energy fields and we seek to balance and harmonize the disturbance by playing

DA: What do people report during or after a sound bath performed by you?

Dynasty Electrik: We’ve been performing our sound healing music live for a few years now, and we really wanted to capture it and allow people to experience it everywhere. The recording was mostly done at Mystic Journey, and we’ve attempted to re-create the live experience for listeners. The instrumentation includes crystal singing bowls, Native American flute, gong, theremin, guitar, and synthesizer. It was challenging to record and mix such a diversity of instruments, but we’re very happy with the results. And we love hearing

from people about the different ways they use the album. Some people use it for reiki and message sessions. Others play it during yoga classes and meditations. Others listen to it when taking a bath. As artists, it’s really satisfying to see people using our music in so many different ways!

DA: What are some of the benefits of a sound bath?

Dynasty Electrik: Relaxation is one of the biggest benefits. Many people report that certain traumas, both physical and psychological, are cleared during a sound bath. The sound can harmonize and balance our bodies and minds and create excellent conditions for healing to take place. People also experience inner visions. The sound fills the mind and puts the listener in a meditative state. Ancient yogis hold meditation on sound in very high regard. There is even a branch of yoga about sound called Nada Yoga. With a sound bath, you can practice a kind of yogic meditation in which sound does all the work for you.

ymore info: www.dynastyelectrik.com Social media @dynastyelectrik www.facethecurrent.com

81

FtC music

Yoga For Musicians Featuring Shae Brock Interview By Woody Woodrow In this March edition of Yoga For Musicians, Woody Woodrow sits down with pop singer-songwriter Shae Brock, whose passion and love for music has helped her embrace vulnerability, step into womanhood and always speak her truth.

Shae started creating music when she was just six years old and has always been a passionate storyteller. Her beautiful voice and unique gifts can be felt through her music and her presence.Tune in as she describes her flow state on the mic and in everyday life.

Join musician and yoga instructor Woody Woodrow every month for his Yoga For Musicians interviews to hear how musicians from around the world find flow in their life, and what tools they use to step into their power on and off stage.

WATCH VIDEO

82

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

Woody Woodrow: To start, since this is Yoga for Musicians, I want to ask you, what is your relationship with the word “yoga?”

can bring that balanced flow state into the performance. Do you find that you experience flow more on your yoga mat or playing music in front of people?

Shae Brock: The word “yoga” reminds me of balance and to constantly stay connected to my breath. That helps me stay focused, present, balanced and aware of my body.

SB: It comes in both. I play music more than I do yoga, though, so yoga brings me back to that reminder of being in a flow state, but when I’m onstage I really find my flow.

WW: This is huge in performing, because then you

WW: What inspired you back in the day to become a super badass singer-songwriter?

SB: I honestly can’t remember a moment where I didn’t want to do music. My parents would always just put on music videos and my first memory is at two years old singing to the Spice Girls on my little Fisher Price microphone. I’ve seen videos of myself and I’m like, “Excuse me, this is my stage!”

I remember sitting in my room dreaming of Britney Spears’ bright green crop top, wishing I owned that.

www.facethecurrent.com

83

WW: Do you have any preparation techniques or rituals you use before taking the stage?

SB: Before I go onstage I always take 10 minutes to just ground myself, breathe, and set an intention, which is sometimes as simple as just remembering to be present. I take a

few moments to reconnect to myself.

I don’t talk as much as I usually do either, I like to take a minute away from people and then fully, when I’m onstage, dive into that story, my universe and whatever I’m bringing to the stage that night.

WW: If you were to break down your life, what would say is the thing you’re most passionate about- the thing that you love to do the most?

SB: Write and tell stories. Recently I’ve been writing a lot, whether it’s about an emotion that’s brought questions to my mind or feeling new

84

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

things. I love poetry and I feel like my lyrics are kind of poetic so I see it as beautiful, the human experience. At times it doesn’t feel so beautiful but I try to just take perspective when I’m not feeling well and realize that it’s going to pass and that the experience is going to bring me gifts, it’s a lesson, like that.

WW: You mentioned that everything is a learning experience for you. As you´ve grown older and matured, how has that been reflected in your music?

SB: My music has definitely become more raw and vulnerable. I’ve learned how to let myself be vulnerable and that it’s beautiful, and it’s safe to be vulnerable and to really speak my truth and share what I’m feeling in my songs.

WW: Naturally you’re really comfortable in front of the camera and it’s portrayed in your music videos, and all over your social media. Do you have any advice for people that are on camera a lot or want to feel more comfortable with it?

out your angles and what you’re comfortable with. If being on-camera or speaking in front of people is part of what you’re choosing to do in your life as a profession, don’t feel silly or embarrassed about filming yourself.

Own it, that’s what you’re doing.

Learn it, and own yourself.

SB: I feel like being on-camera is a skill; it’s like a muscle. When I first started being recorded all the thoughts going through my mind were like, “Is this my angle? Do I look okay? Am I too stiff?” My advice to people would be to get a friend to film you, and take those selfies. Figure

WW: Recording yourself also gives you the opportunity to reflect and evaluate, and I think it allows you to progress and get better at what you want to do. Self-reflection is great for noticing little nuances. Watching and listening to yourself can

also cause you to get into your head a lot, which sometimes isn’t the best but you can definitely identify certain ticks that you have. I notice that when I get really passionate about something I get excited and start talking without thinking, so I say filler words such as “like” and “um” a lot. Now I try to slow myself down a bit.

So going back in time a little bit, back to when…

SB: Do you have a time machine?

WW: I’ve been working on that. www.facethecurrent.com

85

I’ve been actually bypassing the time machine and working more towards dematerialization and levitating. I’m not there yet but I’ll keep you posted. But until it’s built… what advice would you give to your younger self?

SB: A little bit of advice to Baby Shae. Baby Shae: I would tell you to just speak your truth even if it’s scary because those people and those experiences from youth- I don’t even think about them. I barely remember high school. I just focused on music.

I had my little group of friends, my

86

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

band, and then did music and school. I would just tell her, just be you.

WW: All the little Baby Shae’s out there, because we’re all reflections of each other: that’s you. Be yourself and speak your truth.

SB: Also, just follow what makes you happy. I did. I constantly came back to what I loved which was creating, and I always kept myself in that creative space.

WW: You keep the creative juices flowing and they never

get stagnant.You might have ups and downs on different days, but if you’re into the routine of creating you just constantly do it so you have less stagnant energy.

SB: I was also a bit shy. So I would tell myself to say hi to people.

“Everyone that you’re friends with you were a stranger to at one point,” I read that quote somewhere and I love that because now, I’ll be in a coffee shop and start talking to random people. Half my friends I’ve met at coffee shops, concerts, or writing sessions.

WW: I heard this quote once, you just reminded me of it: “Strangers are just friends we haven’t met yet.” I like to look at people the same way because then you’re not scared of everyone.The media likes to portray a more negative image of people and events in our minds. It’s good to be open to positive possibilities. What are you really excited about, moving forward, on your career path?

SB: I’m excited for collaborating with more people. I’ve been doing that a lot and it’s so magical to bring your vibe and another person’s vibe and make something crazy. I love creating and sharing. Sharing is my favorite part. I wouldn’t be as

excited to be making all of this art if I couldn’t share it with people because that to me is the coolest thing ever.

I also like to see how it affects other people, because I love the music. I listen to it in the car and I’m jamming out to my own song, just like I do with other people’s music. I genuinely love the music I make.

Recently I’ve been able to feel when I really love a song, I know it’s the right song for me to be putting out because it feels like who I am and I want to be sharing who I am with people authentically.

WW: Your music is awesome and divine, and you just came out with a new song called “Vibes,” which people have got

to check that one out. Is there anything else you want to share?

SB: Be kind to people. Kindness is everything.

WW: Share love and be kind.

It’s an honor and a pleasure Shae, Namaste.

ymore info: Shae Brock Social media @shaebrockmusic YouTube: @MusicTaylorBrock Soundcloud @shaebrock Woody Woodrow www.woodywoodrow.com YouTube: WoodyWoodrowYoga www.facethecurrent.com

87

FtC ymore info:

music

www.soundcloud.com/semagaray www.facebook.com/semagaraydj www.mixcloud.com/semagaray beachgrooves.com/portfolio-item/ sema-garay/

the most sophisticated house music by Sema Garay presents his favorite monthly recent and upcoming new house music releases with a Top 10 chart that includes a variety of styles from deep house, soulful, and nu-disco, to tech-house and more. Tune in to these tracks by clicking the image or scanning the QR code!

88

ARTIST Gavio, Lady Pinha TITLE Ride On label MTracks genre deep house Release 2018-03-02

ARTIST Daniel Rateuke TITLE Marimbo label MoBlack Records genre afro house Release 2018-03-09

ARTIST Whitesquare TITLE Traces To Nowhere label Freerange genre afro HOUSE Release 2018-02-23

ARTIST KI Creighton, The Angel TITLE Free Me label MadTech Records genre deep house Release 2018-02-16

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

ARTIST AbysSoul, M.J TITLE It Ain’t Easy (Original Mix) label King Street Sounds genre soulful House Release 2018-03-25

ARTIST Demarkus Lewis TITLE City In The Sun (Original Mix) label Grin Music genre DEEP HOUSE Release 2018-03-12

ARTIST Gary Tuohy, Sebb Junior TITLE Too Close To Cut It (Sebb Junior Remix) label Blockhead Recordings genre DEEP house Release 2018-03-02

ARTIST London Fields TITLE Colour To My Life (Original Mix) label Friday Fox Recordings genre House Release 2018-03-02

ARTIST SEK TITLE Rabbit In The Hole label LARGE MUSIC genre deep house Release 2018-02-23

ARTIST K-Bana TITLE Mind Back (Original Mix) label Delve Deeper Recordings genre DEEP house Release 2018-03-09 www.facethecurrent.com

89

Our Our newnew Spring OurSpring new 2018 Spring 2018 2018 collection collection collection represents represents represents an an an important important important milestone milestone milestone for us: for us:for us: Our new Spring 2018 Every Every ounce Every ounce of cotton ounce of cotton of cotton collection represents an usedused is 100% isused 100% organic. is 100% organic. organic. important milestone for us: Every ounce of cotton used is 100% organic.

FtC fAce the current

sports & FITNESS

92. Embracing The Elements: Cinematic

Stories Of The Wild 98. Tierra del Sueños. prAna story created

in collaboration with Yeehaw Donkey 102. HIIT YOGA BY David Ryan Fitness 90

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

REASONS REASONS REASONS TO TO TO MAKE MAKE TH MAKE ETH SWITCH E SWITCH TH E SWITCH TO TO ORGANIC ORGANIC TO ORGANIC COTTON COTTON COTTON

REASONS TO MAKE E SWITCH PEOPLE PEOPLE > CLOTHING PEOPLE > CLOTHING >TH CLOTHING Farmers Farmers andTO their Farmers and ORGANIC families theirand families their are no families are COTTON no are no

longerlonger exposed exposed longer to harmful exposed to harmful chemicals to harmful chemicals chemicals found found in fertilizers infound fertilizers and in fertilizers pesticides. and pesticides. and pesticides.

PEOPLE > CLOTHING their families are no SOILSOIL > CLOTHING >Farmers SOIL CLOTHING >and CLOTHING longer exposed toand harmful chemicals Regenerate Regenerate life Regenerate and life biodiversity and life biodiversity biodiversity found in fertilizers and pesticides. in the insoil thetosoil improve in to theimprove soil thetohealth improve the health the health of ourofplanet. our planet. of our planet.

SOIL > CLOTHING Regenerate and biodiversity WATER WATER > CLOTHING WATER > CLOTHING > life CLOTHING

in the soil to improve the health Save 115 Savegallons 115Save gallons of115 water gallons of water whenofwhen you water you when you of our planet. switchswitch one T-shirt one switch T-shirt to one organic toT-shirt organic cotton. to organic cotton. cotton.

WATER > CLOTHING

Follow prAna Ambassadors @annaehrgott and @nolecossart on their journey through our Fair Trade organic cotton factory in Bangalore, India. Watch the video now at prana.com/organiccotton.

Making the switch to organic cotton is important because it drinks less water, uses rainwater more efficiently, eliminates GMOs and harmful chemicals, and so much more. Learn more at prana.com/sustainability www.facethecurrent.com

91

FtC sports

Embracing The Elements: Cinematic Stories Of The Wild Interview By Candice Paschal

An insatiable thirst for adventure has led Director, Illustrator and Cinematographer Ben Weiland to breathtaking spaces on the earth where few others have been. A lifelong passion for the thrill of surfing has given him a deep connection beyond riding waves, which has allowed him to break both mental and physical boundaries. Lucky for us, this southern California resident with German roots has taken his camera along for the ride.

When faced with challenging, and at times dire circumstances, Weiland has been able to capture some of the most noteworthy cold-water surfing footage on the planet, and it doesn’t end there. His work goes beyond surfing into capturing thrilling, uncharted gems. Weiland is most known for his tasteful work filming the acclaimed documentaries, Under An Arctic Sky and The Cradle of Storms. His remarkable determination to seek out the unknown in order to tell impactful stories through film and photography, has allowed him to become nothing less than a winning player in his field.

In this interview, we dive into frigid temperatures along with Weiland, as we discuss what it’s like first hand to experience life at -45 degrees. We learn the exhilaration of working with world-renowned surfers, and how important it is for him to pick the right people to be a part of his exclusive team. He describes how one simple mistake became an almost fatal accident to one of his members and how much we can gain from cultural perspectives around the globe. Join us in our intimate talk with Ben Weiland as we reveal a deeper understanding of how he believes that both discomfort and challenges bring about greater rewards, and why fear is a crucial part of the excitement.

92

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

Candice Paschal: You’ve traveled all over the world to fearlessly create inspiring films, photos, artwork, and even music. Do you have a secret fear that you constantly have to confront?

Ben Weiland: It might seem fearless, but fear is definitely a part of it. The fear of failure is part of every project. There are so many variables that can go wrong. But if fear wasn’t there, I don’t think doing this kind of work would be as exciting or rewarding.

CP: How do you know you’re in the groove while on location?

BW: I try to plan ahead as much as possible, and have parameters set up, so that you find yourself in situations that present interesting and creative opportunities. There is a lot of research that goes into traveling to remote locations, you can’t just point on the map, show up and start working. I’ve found that the more time I’ve put in ahead of a project, the better the results turn out. But things never go according to plan, and you have to be ok with that.

CP: When you’ve gone to great lengths to shoot something epic, how often do you feel that you’re rolling the dice and how do you determine when

a project is complete even without all the elements you had planned?

BW: If a project is based on weather, wind, or waves, there is always a variable, an unknown.

That’s something that you have to understand and embrace. If you try to wait for the perfect timing, it might never come.You can’t control those circumstances, and the lack of control is what gives moments so much value when the elements all come together. So a lot of times it comes down to a decision to just go out and try something, and not be afraid if it doesn’t work out. www.facethecurrent.com

93

CP: You’ve done several projects featuring renowned surfer Dane Gudauskas who seems to beam with joy 24/7. What is it like working with talent like Dane, Chris Burkard, and many others who are incredibly passionate about what they do- and how do you select talent to collaborate with and feature in your films?

BW: Who you’re working with is a huge part of a project. Having someone that is as excited as you to face into challenges and create something new makes a big difference. I’ve seen that the relationships of the team show in the final piece. So it’s important to be with people that see the larger vision for what you’re working on, and

94

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

people who are good at things that I’m not good at. It’s a team effort to make it happen.

CP: You’ve quoted the saying, “There’s no such thing as cold weather, just bad clothes.”

Surfing in freezing temperatures is not a common encounter, but your ‘entourage’ has somewhat glorified the experience by sharing the beauty of stunning remote landscapes and ‘private’ waves in countries like Iceland and Norway. But even back at home in the U.S. you’ve captured a similar experience in the Great Lakes! What’s the story behind Dane’s insane ice beard and the desire to surf ice cold waves?

BW: Yeah! Dane called me up and said he had a burning desire to get an ice beard. He had been growing out his beard for a while and had always dreamed of surfing in the Great Lakes. Dane loves getting out of his comfort zone and experiencing something completely different. The local surfers out there are some of the toughest people I’ve ever seen. They brave extremely cold temperatures to get surf, and when they come out of the water they are encrusted in ice. It was the strangest experience to drive through a blizzard in the Mid-West with surfboards, searching for fresh water waves. It makes me laugh whenever I think about it.

CP: It’s apparent you love surfing with it being the focal point of the majority of your films, but if you were to go in a completely different direction with cinematography, what would it be?

BW: Surfing has been a part of a lot of my work, but the common thread that I get most excited about is sharing stories about people. That’s a pretty broad scope, but there are so many interesting and unique stories to tell, so many incredible things people have experienced. Surfing has played a large role because it connects with something deeper than just the sport. It’s about pushing yourself into new areas, exploring, and heading into the unknown.

CP: In your film, “Warrick’s Place,” you shine a light on the ingenuity and courage that it takes to live in the wilderness.

What values do you want to imprint on your viewers in this film, and perhaps others? Is the potential to portray and inspire these values that draws you to do a project?

BW: It’s been amazing to get to share Warrick’s story. He has an attitude of living in the wild that seems completely counter-intuitive.

While I was visiting him, there were so many things that went wrong from my perspective. One night, his boat and trailer got stuck in a rivermouth as the sun was going down, and he ended up pulling them out

of the ice-cold water by himself. He was so close to losing his boat, but to him it wasn’t a frustration. For him things like that are part of living in the wild. He sees the challenge as an adventure, the reward of living in such a beautiful place. That’s what inspired me about him, and getting insights like that gets me excited about profiling people in other projects as well.

CP: When you work with the big guys in surf and extreme sports brands like Red Bull in your film series “Chasing the Shot”, you’re bound to have some insane behind the scenes moments, from bloopers to the intense prep everyone goes through.

What is one of the most insane www.facethecurrent.com

95

WATCH: “Chasing The Shot”

behind the scenes moments you’ve experienced?

BW: When I was in Iceland for Under An Arctic Sky there was a moment when our drone cinematographer, Renan Ozturk, accidentally turned on a large octocopter drone while he was leaning over it to inspect it. It’s a huge drone with long carbon fiber blades. When it turned on, it sliced through his pants at the knees, and when he lifted his pants up, it had cut him almost to the bone. We had to find a place for him to see a doctor,

96

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

and fortunately some of the Icelandic surfers who were with us knew someone we could call. Those are the kinds of things you hope will never happen, especially when you’re in a remote location. Fortunately Renan got stitched up and the rest of the trip finished without a problem.

One of the themes you’ve portrayed throughout your work is how the forces and elements of nature should be respected, but also the beauty in this connection we have with nature.

From facing harsh elements in

nature to sharing the potential harmony of living with nature that played into your story on Destination Dehcho where the local culture tells how “life in all seasons has its own movement, challenges, and amazing transitions” – what do you hope to be the major takeaway for your viewers?

BW: My hope is that viewers can learn something new from people who live in different circumstances or have different experiences than their own. There are so many insights

that we can share with each other, that give a new perspective on life.

Visiting the Dehcho region was completely different than anything I had experienced before, and learning what it is like to go through a long winter that often reaches -45° was eye-opening for me.

15-minute short film, and currently it’s in post-production. It’s been incredible to get to work on something like this, and I’m excited to share the full story later this year.

CP: Is there a current or upcoming film project you’re working on that you can give some teasers on?

BW: I’m currently working on completing the project in Fiordland with Warrick. It’s going to be a

WATCH: “Warrick’s Place: Living Off Grid In Paradise”

“

My hope is that viewers can learn something new from people who live in different circumstances or have different experiences than their own. There are so many insights that we can share with each other, that give a new perspective on life.

ymore info: http://www.benweiland.com Instagram: @benweiland www.facethecurrent.com

97

“

FtC sports

Tierra del Sueños story created in collaboration with Yeehaw Donkey

Quotes by Bruce Chatwin’s excerpted from his book, In Patagonia.

Where do you go when you need to get away? When you daydream? Maybe here?

Dientes Circuit Day 2 This is an exercise in the things you need and the things you don’t need. “Needs” fluctuate with circumstance in such remote landscapes we need. Boots. Warm clothes. Rain gear.

Tents for shelter. Food. Fuel. Fire. A positive attitude and enthusiasm for adventure go a long way. I love our crew.

That desert wanderers discover in themselves a primeval calmness (known also to the simplest savage), which is perhaps the same as the Peace of God… unusual kingdom.

“Patagonia!’ he cried. ‘She is a hard mistress. She casts her spell. An enchantress! She folds you in her arms and never lets go.”

- IN PATAGONIA 29

98

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

Day 4 of the Dientes Circ.

All water stains in this journal to date are from today. 7 hours of sustained rain and wind in our pushover Paso Virginia. It was savage. Alarming.

Scary. The top of the pass was 5 football fields of scree before hitting the drop off. Gusting winds knocked us back and forth, ping ponging along the trail like a ball weighted on one side but still trying to roll. When we finally reach the drop off, to begin the descent the wind went from inconvenient to SUPER F***ING SERIOUS. First impulse was to lean hard but when our angle quickly passed a 45 degree lean we took to our butts and thought about the next move, which was nothing more than to move head first forward. I was knocked completely off my feet twice. Finally we made it down to treeline and escaped some of the wind and rain. Fed ourselves and spent the night drying our gear all fully soaked.

Yesterday We Hiked to Mirador Las Torres And found ourselves a lovely morning rainbow.

Puerto Natales. Home of the Mylodon. Butch Cassidy disappeared down here.

“I walked north through a country broken by gulches and mesas, where the most unlikely colours had been spat to the surface…

The unnatural colors gave me a headache, but I cheered up on seeing a green tree--a Lombardy poplar, the punctuation mark of man.”

- IN PATAGONIA 81

www.facethecurrent.com

99

3.21.17 Tuesday En Route to El Chalten “The wind blew the smell of rain down the valley ahead of the rain itself, the smell of wet earth and aromatic plants.”

- IN PATAGONIA 63 Tierra Del Fuego - The Land of Fire The fires were the campfires of the Fuegian Indians. In one version Magellan saw smoke only and called it Tierra del Humo, the Land of Smoke, but Charles V said there was no smoke without fire and changed the name.

The Dientes Circuit - The Teeth of Navarro They’re not wisdom teeth. They’re canines.

Sharp, piercing, and punishing. Nothing that grows there does so delicately. Even the groundcover has a thick trunk with stout, tiny leaves that don’t dangle too far from the stem for fear of being blown off it.

100

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

El Chalten Argentina - Cash Only There’s a sense in town that the people you walk past know a secret. That they’re here for something significant. This is a hard place to get to. Stories, legends of human strength, endurance, insanity - define my looking glass. I can’t see this skyline without thinking of the people before me - who came and looked upon it and proceeding to tackle the challenges - for me it’s visual spectacle - I can find that all over the world - for them it provides unparalleled terrain.

WATCH VIDEO

Towns are far apart. The roads connecting them are desolate and unserviced. Consequently the tourism it draws is adventure tourism - not passive picture taking, gift shop going tourism but limit-testers seeking new challenges in unique landscapes it’s mecca for the enthusiasts.

Journey through the modern-mythology of Patagonia with our team of adventurers. Dive into the inspiration they soaked up on a life altering trip.

“We talked late into the night, arguing whether or not we, too, have journeys mapped out in our central nervous systems; it seemed the only way to account for our insane restlessness.”

- IN PATAGONIA 86 Got a Good Look at the Stars Tonight It still blows my mind to know that in seeing them I am looking…

in partnership with Yeehaw Donkey www.facethecurrent.com

101

FtC fitness

HIIT YOGA BY

David Ryan Fitness

You might think yoga and High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) are an odd mix, but combining the two results in a fat burning strength workout you’ll love to do.

Although there are more restorative forms of the ancient practice, yoga can be as hard—or harder—as other types of exercise, and offers major physical and emotional benefits as well.

Yoga’s physical classic postures like downward facing dog work to tone the upper body, while exercises such as horse stance fire up the legs and strengthen the muscles in the thighs. In the workout below, you’ll use a light pair of dumbbells to increase resistance and 60-second intervals to amp up the intensity.

HIIT Protocol: EMOM (Every Minute On the Minute)

Rotate each yoga-inspired exercise every minute for 20 minutes. Take a knee or go into child’s pose if you need a break.

1. DOWN DOG - UP DOG

2. SPIDER PUSH-UPS

3. HORSE STANCE DUMBBELL CROSS PUNCHES

4. RUSSIAN TWIST WITH DUMBBELL

ymore info: www.DavidRyanFitness.com Instagram: @davidryanfitness YouTube: DavidRyanFitness 102

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

watch video (click or scan)

Need a Trainer?

Get in the best shape of your life this year with David Ryan Fitness

10% off with code FTC10 W W W. DAV I D RYA N F I T N E S S .C O M

Water is more than just an assembly of oxygen and hydrogen molecules. It‘s more than just H2O. Scientists have discovered that water has memory and that it can be positively stimulated by sources of vibration and energy—sources like the gemstones in our VitaJuwel gem-water accessories.

BEFORE

AFTER

Learn more at gem-water.com and discover a world of over 20 gem blends that each boost the alkalinity (pH) and oxygen level of your everyday tap or filtered water.

TURN ORDINARY WATER INTO EXTRAORDINARY

FtC

H2O

HEALTH fAce the current

106. Gem Water: The Beauty & Power of Gemstones 108. The Institute For Transformational

Thinking: Global Visionary Leaders

Aim To Revolutionize Thought 118. How Do You “Eat With Intention?”

124. FACE How To Develop Your Intuition 104 the CURRENT MAGAZINE

gem-water.com

www.facethecurrent.com

105

The

Beauty &Powerof

Gemstones e were so excited when we saw these

The gemstones’ energy actually affects the water

beautiful Gem-Water bottles simply

right through the glass gempods—they never

because they’re gorgeous. THEN we WELLNESS G E M-WAT E R B OT T L E Amethyst, rose quartz, clear quartz.

Holds 16.9 fl oz $78

come in physical contact with your water, making

found out what they actually do to water...and

it super hygienic and convenient. Sound amazing?

we were completely hooked! Gem-Water by

It is. The result is noticeably revitalized water,

VitaJuwel takes ordinary water and turns it

shown in independent labs to have a restored

into extraordinary H2O by enlivening it through

crystalline structure, boosted alkalinity level, and

the energy of special gemstone blends. Yes, you

higher oxygen content—all qualities comparable

read that right. Here’s the thing. Gemstones

to water straight from a natural spring. We invite

actually possess powerful physical properties

you to come in, try it, and taste the difference.

that have been harnessed since ancient times in various spiritual and naturopathic practices.

We all know that proper hydration is immensely

And even if that’s too woo-woo for you, think

important to keeping our bodies functioning at

about the use of quartz crystal to sustain a very

their highest potential, so a healthy water habit

precise frequency in clocks and watches. Now,

is a must. But why tote a water bottle that just

granted, Gem-Water bottles don’t tell time...but

transports your ‘dead’ water when you can carry

they do lots of other amazing things!

one that’s full of gorgeous gems constantly working their magic? And frankly, we could all use a little more magic in our lives!

106 CURRENT L TO R:FACE SUNNYthe MORNING, $140 •MAGAZINE PASSION, $120 • INNER PURITY, $120 • FITNESS, $98 • MOMENTUM, $120 • LOVE, $98 • FIVE ELEMENTS, $98 • DIAMONDS, $330 • BEAUTY, $120

Transform Your Wine Time travel may be out of reach, but if you’re a wine lover, you may have just stumbled upon a close second.

VINO DECANTER Hand-blown glass crafted in Bohemia. Vial sold separately. $210

Imagine a window into the future of a young red wine. Intriguing, n’est-ce pas? Well, that’s the amazing effect produced by VitaJuwel’s Vino Collection of hand-blown glass Vials. The bulb of the Vino Vial holds a special blend of amethyst and clear quartz. It’s brought to us by the team at Gem-Water, who turned us on to the interaction between gemstones and water. Amazingly, the

G E M S TO N E D R O P L E T Hand-blown glass with

measurable boost in alkalinity (pH) and oxygen

amethyst, clear quartz, and garnet. $60

content creates a softened and enlivened quality on the palate. Turns out, certain gemstones similarly affect wine!

VINO VIAL Hand-blown glass gemstone vial with amethyst and clear quartz $144

The word “amethyst” derives from the Greek word

giving the mouth-feel a smooth, velvety quality.

“amethystos,” literally meaning “not intoxicated.”

It’s as though you’re experiencing a more mature

The ancient Greeks gave the name to this type of

version of that young red—a sense of what it will

crystal because it was believed to guard against

develop into as it ages.

drunkenness. So much so that some ancient serving vessels were crafted with amethyst. Now,

The Vino Collection is a delight for everyone,

they may have been slightly off on the ultimate

from connoisseurs who relish the complexities

benefit, but they were spot-on in noticing the

and nuances of wine, to the casual enthusiast

distinct textural difference the gemstones make.

who’d love to make that respectable Cabernet taste exceptional; this is pure fun. Try it out

Especially in a young red with a lot of tannic “bite,”

over dinner with friends—even the most

decanting with the gemstone Vial (by the bottle)

discerning will be pleasantly surprised.

and Droplet (by the glass), takes that “edge” off,

@GemWaterLover

facebook.com/GemWaterLover

@Gem_Water_Lover

www.facethecurrent.com 107 gem-water.com | 888.218.2289

FtC health

The Institute For Transformational Thinking Global Visionary Leaders Aim To Revolutionize Thought Interview By Sasha Frate In the consciousness-raising mecca of Los Angeles, a team of visionary leaders gathers to deeply, soberly, and maturely look at the world’s most devastating problems – violence, racism, sexism, economic inequality, food supply toxicity, environmental destruction – the list goes on. These problems have existed long before any of these leaders were ever born, long before this generation. Is there anything one generation could do to create viable solutions? They think so.

This remarkable group of positive change makers have come together to launch The Institute For Transformational Thinking, a new educational nonprofit that has been 18 months in the making. The IFTT core founding team consists of psychotherapists, artists and teachers including founder Ora Nadrich, leadership advisor Dr. Ronald Alexander, communications director Julia Nugent, creative director Dmitriy Khanzhin, and director of education Benjamin W. Decker. Each with their own passion, purpose and power - together they will champion widespread transformational thinking directed by wisdom, compassion and purpose—at a time when we need it most.

Through the institute, this team is poised to evangelize what some would view as a radical rethinking of how we live, work and think. The institute supports far-reaching systemic change to the status quo to prepare us for a healthy and prosperous future.

The IFTT team was gracious enough to recently sit down with Face the Current for a deep dive into the new institute and how it will help guide members to true self-realization, to jettison old behaviors that no longer are useful and say hello to a more positive and motivated incarnation of themselves.

108

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

Julia, Ronald, Ora, and Ben with Daniel P Brown, Harvard Professor of Psychology and Buddhist scholar

SF:The founding team of IFTT is a remarkable group of positive change makers, visionaries, and leaders in mindfulness, meditation, and transformational thinking and living. What are some of the unique aspects that each member of the team is bringing to the Institute?

Ora Nadrich: I’ve put together this remarkable team because I felt strongly that with my vision to create the Institute For Transformational Thinking, it required “like minded” collaborators, and co-visionaries to help see it come to fruition in the best way possible. I feel there is much more power when you create from a place of “we” rather than just functioning as an “I”, and this is a great group to work jointly with. Each member of my team has an important and valuable role in developing and nurturing the IFTT, and committed to the ongoing creative process that it requires.

Dr. Ronald Alexander is not only a successful licensed psychotherapist, but he is also a leading pioneer

in the fields of Mindfulness Based Mind-body Therapies. As the Executive Director of the Open Mind Training Institute, of which I am certified as a Mindfulness Meditation teacher, he is also the author of the wildly acclaimed book, Wise Mind, Open Mind, which combines ancient Buddhist practices and tools with leading-edge positive psychology. With an emphasis on building mind strength, I felt that Ron was the perfect member of my advisory council because my work addresses strengthening the mind through thought awareness, and includes the psycho-spiritual, which Ron is highly versed in. His expertise in the combined areas of Psychology, Buddhism and Mindfulness are very congruent with my work, and my philosophy of the IFTT. When I met Ben, he was the director of Full Circle, a spiritual community in Venice, CA, and he contacted me to speak there. We connected immediately in so many ways, but what stood out for me in particular was that he had read an article I wrote for Huffington Post

called, “How to Stay Mindful in the Midst of Hatred in the Middle East and the World”, and he not only completely resonated with it, but he understood my message of “standing in the shoes of your enemy so that you can understand them better.” I knew that he was smart, and quite a deep thinker for a young man.

Our friendship developed, and I found myself mentoring this very bright guy who I said had “very good instincts, and would go far.”

Our work together grew, and Ben was always able to understand that I had a strong passion for helping people “wake up” and become more conscious by understanding their thinking mind better through my Says Who? Method. Our work together with The IFTT was such a natural progression, and his commitment to helping me get my vision out into the world has been exemplary.

I also feel that Ben’s work as a Meditation teacher & author of the book Practical Meditation for Beginners, and his prolific career in PR, makes him an absolute dream in being my Director of Education of The IFTT. www.facethecurrent.com

109

on track with our busy schedules, and makes sure that we cover all of our bases. On any given week, I have radio shows, articles to write for magazines, and public speaking engagements, and Julia is always there making sure that I get everything done on time and right on schedule.

As a Los Angeles native, and someone who is tapped into the wellness and yoga community, Julia has bridged the gap of introducing me to millennial entrepreneurs and leaders.

SF: While the IFTT is formed as an Institute, would you say that it is also a global movement for transformational thinking to create a more peaceful, functional world?

Dmitriy is a true artist. He has the highest level of skills as a graphic designer, and based on his ability to immediately see and understand my vision for The IFTT, he was able to translate it so accurately and beautifully, not only into my website, but in all the branding for The IFTT that sets it apart from anything else

110

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

out there. He takes a vision, and brings it to life visually.

Julia has her degree in communications from USC, and brought her pure enthusiasm to being a part of The IFTT vision. In the creative process, it’s great to have someone who keeps everyone

Ora Nadrich: I formed The IFTT as an Institute, but without question, I view it also as having the potential for becoming a “global movement” for raising awareness on how powerful our thoughts are for “being the change we wish to see in the world” as Gandhi said. Our hope for creating a more “peaceful, functional world” can only happen if we change our thinking. As we can presently see, significant changes need to be made in our world, for there is much to be concerned about, and as Albert Einstein said so well; “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.” Transformational thinking is, in my opinion, the only way we can solve our problems today. If this turns into a “transformational movement,” all the better. Let us join forces together as a global community in taking responsibility for our thoughts.

As my philosophy states; “Changing the world one thought at a time.”

That means if each and every one of us changed even just one thought of hate or racism to love and acceptance, we will help create the change we wish to see.

SF: In 2017, Forbes revealed ‘3 Reasons All Great Leaders Have Mentors (And Mentees),’ noting that one can never be too successful to need a mentor.The three benefits listed are: 1) You’ll be pushed out of your comfort zone: “Every great leader does something that no one else in their field, or even the world, is comfortable, ready or skilled enough to pull off.“ 2) Learn how to accept and give feedback: “Having a mentor means you’re literally asking someone to give you criticism all the time.”

3) Having a confidant reduces stress: “They act as a confidant that you can unload your problems with.

They’ll listen, help you dissect exactly what’s bothering you, and provide support as you think of solutions together.”

In what ways does the IFTT address these areas and “benefits” through it’s training, coaching, and programs?

Ora Nadrich: The IFTT is helping build and develop great leaders in the area of transformational thinking through our Thought Coach Certification Training Program, which is specifically designed for leadership.

Great leaders are the implementers of great ideas, and are able to communicate them effectively and constructively. There are tremendous benefits to be gained from The IFTT Thought Coach Program, in much the same way mentorship guides others to be the best they can be.

This unique training is intended

for strengthening the mind, and developing healthy thinking habits. By learning the methods and techniques offered in the program, it does, like mentorship, help “push people out of their comfort zone” by holding them accountable for their thoughts.

It also gives “constructive feedback” for understanding the thinking process better, and how to apply this information in daily life. The coachesin-training must learn to apply these techniques to their own mind before assisting clients in this. And ultimately, like successful mentors are able to do with their clients, the IFTT Thought Coach Certification Program helps people reduce their stress significantly by not only implementing a whole new way of thinking that is positive, healthy, wholesome, and life-affirming, but by also applying the Mindfulness skills that are taught in the program, which are life changing. www.facethecurrent.com Photo: Ben Decker. Credit: Adam Kay

111

SF: Ora, you’ve said, “A transformational thinker is sharp and discerning. They are highly selective of the thoughts they allow in their mind.” How does one distinguish and work with both conscious and subconscious thoughts, the latter having a tendency to be more difficult to select and allow/disallow?

Ora Nadrich: My “Says Who?” Method is designed to work with both “conscious and subconscious thoughts.” We think up to 70,000 thoughts a day, and clearly we can’t be cognizant of all of our thinking.

But what I offer and propose by using the “Says Who?” questioning method, is to connect to, and identify a negative or fear-based thought you are conscious of. If a thought is not known to you, meaning it is hidden or buried in your subconscious, but you might be experiencing what I call in Says Who? the “symptom” or “side effect” of it, which can manifest as

112

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

anxiety, for example, by doing the “Says Who?” meditation, you can bring a thought to the foreground of your mind that may have been in your subconscious prior to you asking for it to be known to you consciously.

The way in which “a transformational thinker is sharp and discerning” is that they become very skilled at not only changing their conscious negative and fear-based thoughts, but doing a deeper investigation into their subconscious, if necessary, to reach any thoughts that might be more hidden or buried.

SF: Dr. Alexander, you have significant experience in observing the transformation that can take place in people through your work and have another established Institute called “Open Mind Training Institute” where you teach on how “Open Mind awareness helps us to access our core creativity, an endless resource

for true innovations and profound transformation.”

What are some of the key factors from your work and OMTI that you are excited to bring to the Institute For Transformational Thinking?

Ronald Alexander, PhD, MFT, SEP: I have been teaching and studying the cross cultural systems of meditation and yoga including Zen,Vipassana, Mindfulness, Tibetian Dzoghen, Advaita Nondualism, Ashtanga Vinyasa and Iyengar Yoga and Christian Contemplative Meditation since 1970. I bring my background as a clinical psychotherapist who integrates somatic mind-body healing therapies as well as group & individual leadership, and core creativity training with executive coaching to The Institute For Transformational Thinking as a mentor and trainer.

SF: Dr. Alexander, in your book

Dr. Ronald Alexander

Wise Mind Open Mind, you feature a special message by Lama Surya Das who authored Awakening The Buddha Within that states: “Long ago I wrote that there’s a great spiritual hunger in this land. How true is this now, in these times of economic crisis and environmental upheaval?

Many are looking deeper for satisfaction and fulfillment, having discovered that material and technological progressvaluable as it may be- still leaves us wanting. Throughout history, people have turned inward, looking for inner freedom and genuine creativity, and the transformative power that tends to follow behind its exercise.”

How do you envision the Institute For Transformational Thinking as creating a ‘solve’ for this, and a movement that empowers this transformation to take place around the world?

Ben Decker. Photo Credit: Adam Kay

Ronald Alexander, PhD, MFT, SEP: At The Institute, we are focused on and dedicated to bringing the teachings of Mindfulness, Says Who? (a cognitive spiritual approach to psychological and core spiritual transformation), along with my teachings in Mindful Leadership, Core Creativity and Mindfulness in an integrative mind-body-spirit approach.

We do this to address imbalance and bring forth healing possibilities at the individual and organizational level recovery centers, clinics, hospitals, colleges and universities throughout the USA and the world.

We believe change, healing, and transformation are timely and needed to heal the self, soul and the world. We are a core group of mindfulness trainers, coaches and psychotherapists. We will not stop until healing is the norm.

SF: Ben, with your extensive background as a Mindfulness

Meditation Teacher and Holistic Business Consultant, what excites you about your role as Director of Education for the IFTT and can you explain how meditation will be part of the program/training/education?

Ben Decker: Having studied in, and hosted my own trainings, I’ve learned that there is a lot of great content out there, but very few programs systematically empower trainees.

So much of my own learning has come through direct experience, as a result of being empowered by others. At The IFTT we are creating a culture of leaders by equipping our trainees with the basic necessities for launching their work as a Thought Coach.

My work as a Holistic Business Consultant has allowed me to incorporate a strong businessdevelopment package available to our coaches. Not only is the training www.facethecurrent.com

113

thorough, simple and complete - it also includes strategies specifically for working with clients, launching a new business, and even the actual tools to do so. Graduates of our program are ready to begin their work right away.

Meditation has a crucial role to play in the mastering of one’s mind. In the Thought Coach Certification Training, there is an entire module dedicated to understanding Mindfulness and putting it in to practice through meditation. Coaches are also taken through several meditations, and provided with tips and scripts to guide their clients through basic meditations.

SF: Ora, can you share a revealing “Aha” moment that you have experienced that really informed your desire and pursuit to lead others in transforming their lives and/or empowering them to also become leaders in this effort?

Ora Nadrich: So many people have shared with me the powerful changes they’ve realized in their lives by transforming their thinking with the Says Who? Method, and my Release & Replace Technique.

Quite a lot of them considered themselves very negative thinkers, or felt ruled by fear-based thoughts, which caused deep frustration, and serious suffering. All of the stories I’ve heard over the years of people transforming their lives with my method has touched me deeply, and given me great joy. But it was with one person in particular that I had my greatest “aha” moment in realizing that the work I do can really make a profound difference in people’s lives, especially those that are suffering more than you could imagine.

In what I would call a “divine intervention” I had encountered someone who escaped a rehabilitation center with the intention of ending her life through suicide. By life coaching her with

intensity and determination, and using my Says Who? Method to convince her that thinking her life was “meaningless” and “worthless” wasn’t real, but only a distorted perception born out of fear, I was able to convince her that she deserved to live as much as anyone else, and could transcend her limited thinking by believing that she could.

It was extraordinary to witness her shift from the deepest despair I had ever seen, to someone who did want to live, but didn’t know how to fight for it.

I gave her a signed copy of Says Who? and inscribed how much I believed in her, and she in return gave me the razor blade she was going to use to end her life. Witnessing something as unbelievable as that made me realize that I’m just one person who had the ability to save someone’s life, and if you multiplied that by thousands of other Thought Coach/Leaders who could do what I did, imagine how many lives we can help and save!

“

Meditation has a crucial role to play in the mastering of one’s mind. In the Thought Coach Certification Training, there is an entire module dedicated to understanding Mindfulness and putting it in to practice through meditation.

“

114

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

“

Learning how to liberate the mind will bring forth new ways of seeing existing systems, leading to innovation. It is incumbent upon us to remember we all have the ability to envision the future working in harmony; human beings and nature.

SF: How would you explain the philosophy that The IFTT observes regarding the connection that humanity has with nature and the value in making time to nurture this ‘connection?’

Ora Nadrich: The IFTT’s philosophy is that “Thought Transformation” keeps us aligned with our true nature so that humanity can stay aligned, and in harmony with the true nature of the planet. The way we can nurture this in our lives and for our great Mother Earth is to make sure we stay on top of, and connected to healthy thinking habits. If our thinking is imbalanced, dysfunctional, or out of whack, invariably we will see our planet out of whack. It’s all connected. That within, is that without, and what we are experiencing in our own minds, is what we will see reflected outside of ourselves.

Our thinking is the best way to gauge

“

Julia Nugent

Dmitriy Khanzhin. Photo Credit: Adam Kay

not only our own well-being, but the well-being of the entire world.

SF: Julia, what are you most excited about being a part of The IFTT? Julia Nugent: The IFTT has the power to impact the future generations of this world, by empowering them to expand their thinking mind. Learning how to liberate the mind will bring forth new ways of seeing existing systems, leading to innovation. It is incumbent upon us to remember we all have the ability to envision the future working in harmony; human beings and nature.

This is possible through Thought Transformation and our mission at The IFTT; changing the world one thought at a time.

SF: Dmitriy, how did you get involved with The IFTT, and what is your creative vision?

Dmitriy Khanzhin: I first met Ben over 15 years ago. He is my oldest

and best friend, and when he invited me to be a part of this project, I was thrilled. I am so grateful to be a part of this extraordinary mission!

I love to work with Ora and Ben, and to collaborate with them in this beginning part of the process.

The vision is huge, and the work is so powerful for healing. My creative vision is to bring into form the design, colors, and artwork that will most perfectly express exactly what this work is really about - depth, maturity, wisdom, and sophistication.

SF: Ben, you’ve shared one of Socrates’ famous quotes that notes how “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new,” which seems to really speak to the fundamental principle of ‘transformational thinking.’

Why do you believe that such a seemingly simple, ancient teaching has been so difficult for www.facethecurrent.com

115

“

We are all connected, and if you subscribe to the belief that we are “at one with all that exists” then our connectedness, or our interdependence of one another is greatly influenced by how conscious and mindful we are of one another, and the world in which we live.

Ben Decker: To create something new, we first need to have a vision for it. In order to be able to create a vision, we need to thoroughly understand that which is not currently working.

We, as people, find it challenging to see beyond our personal circumstances and our past experiences. We see around us many people trying “new things,” but are they new enough? Are they truly meeting the needs of our generation, and those to come? Typically, the answer to this is “no.” We find it challenging to “build the new,” as Socrates put it, because we are so entrenched in that which was that it can be almost impossible to see that which is, and therefore, that which is to be.

116

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

Through the work we are doing at The IFTT, we are helping people first begin to see what thoughts are not working for them in their own lives - the thoughts that are leading them to unhealthy, unproductive, selfish behaviors - and secondly, begin to address them head on. This trains an informed citizenry - one who is willing to question and find answers to their questions. As we learn to question our own thoughts from a place of wisdom and non-judgment, we begin to question the status quo wisely and nonjudgmentally.

SF: Kalu Rinpoche has said, “We do not realize often enough that we are dependent on one another; at the simplest material level, we are all interdependent for daily needs, and in this way we owe a debt to all beings.The pure nature of mind; emptiness, lucidity and intelligence without limit, has

“

most people to put into practice to transform their lives and live more purposefully and happily?

always been inside us.”

How do you envision the IFTT creating (or acting as) a support system for a global community that answers to this need for dependency yet also a guidance platform that reminds this same community of individual innate, limitless intelligence possessed within?

Ora Nadrich: We are all connected, and if you subscribe to the belief that we are “at one with all that exists” then our connectedness, or our interdependence of one another is greatly influenced by how conscious and mindful we are of one another, and the world in which we live.

I envision the IFTT helping to raise awareness about the importance of how, and what we think, and that by implementing

“

We do have “innate, limitless intelligence possessed within us,” but we must first open the “doors of perception,” as philosopher Aldous Huxley called it, and remove the self-imposed barriers we place in our minds so that we may access the expansive potential of our thoughts, and realize the extraordinary things we are capable of manifesting from them.

“

transformational thinking, we can raise not only an awareness of ourselves and the world, but raise the collective consciousness of the planet higher. The IFTT’s mission is to cultivate mental health by practicing healthy thinking habits, and by teaching people how to think efficiently and compassionately, we can live in harmony as a global community. We do have “innate, limitless intelligence possessed within us,” but we must first open the “doors of perception,” as philosopher Aldous Huxley called it, and remove the self-imposed barriers we place in our minds so that we may access the expansive potential of our thoughts, and realize the extraordinary things we are capable of manifesting from them.

SF: The IFTT is offering online and in-person trainings, certifications, classes, and workshops to introduce myriad

techniques and methods for transformational thinking.

Where will all of this be offered and who is it for?

Ora Nadrich: The IFTT is offering Level One of our Thought Coach Certification Training Program, which begins on April 2, 2018 for four weeks. Applicants can register at theIFTT.org. This online training is available for those in the self-help & wellness fields, including therapists, life coaches, healers, yogis, peoplehelpers, or anyone committed to transformational thinking.

It is intended for those looking to become a Thought Coach, as well as helping others transform their thoughts to support their wellbeing. Our programs are designed to raise awareness of the thinking mind, and to teach the world how to cultivate and nurture healthy thinking habits.

We will be continuing our online Thought Coach Certification Programs, which will be offered up progressively in levels. Our most advanced graduates will qualify for our Executive Transformational Leadership Training.

We are also offering classes and ongoing workshops to introduce the newest, and most effective Thought Transformation techniques and methods. In addition to our online curriculum, we will be providing these classes, workshops and retreats in Los Angeles and around the world.

“Problems cannot be solved on the level of thinking that created them.”

–Einstein

ymore info: www.theiftt.org Instagram: @theiftt www.facethecurrent.com

117

FtC health

How Do You “Eat With Intention?”

By Cassandra Bodzak

I’m Cassandra Bodzak, author of “Eat With Intention” and I’m here to give you a crash course on eating with intention and listening to your so buckle up, grab a nice cup of tea and take

By Dr.body’s Ronaldwisdom, Alexander some deep breaths as you read through my 5 steps to get you started below!

118

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

1. MAKE PEACE WITH YOUR BODY SO YOU CAN TAP INTO ITS WISDOM

One of the first things I recommend in “Eat with Intention” is starting a daily gratitude meditation practice for your body. When we go deep with our gratitude, we start to respect and honor our body for each incredible cells and awe inspiring process that goes on inside of us everyday to keep us alive and thriving.

When you’ve flexed your body gratitude, you will automatically start feeling more connected to body so the next step is starting an open communication with it.

Your body is always talking to you — headaches, stomach

aches, those butterflies when you meet someone special, that nauseous feeling when you’re about to sign a contract that doesn’t feel right — it’s been there all along but now you are truly ready to listen to it.You can start taking moments throughout the day and after your meditation to really tune into how your body is feeling aka communicating with you about absolutely everything in your life but especially how it wants to be cared for

www.facethecurrent.com

119

2. BECOME A FOOD DETECTIVE

“

Keeping a food-mood journal entails you logging not only all food + beverages entering your body for at least two weeks and also logging how you were feeling at the time you ate and how you feel in your body about an hour or so after.

Keeping a foodmood journal entails you logging not only all food + beverages entering your body for at least two weeks and also logging how you were feeling at the time you ate and how you feel in your body about an hour or so after. I encourage my clients to not “cheat” themselves out of some good findings, i.e. don’t be on your best behavior when you are doing this, it works so much better if you honestly just live your life, pizza, cupcakes, handfuls of M&Ms at the office, 3 dirty martinis on the weekend — write it all down and don’t clean it up. Also, don’t judge

120

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

“

If you haven’t figured it out yet, I am all about bringing the power back to its rightful owner — that’s you and your body.

I don’t believe in a one size fits all meal plan, exercise routine, or life to be honest. It’s all about you discovering what works for you and then making those adjustments to listen to your body so you can feel your best. I encourage you to become the detective here so that you can make conclusions specific to you and your life and one of my favorite exercises to jump into this is keep a ‘food-mood’ journal for two weeks!

yourself for any of this, you are not ‘bad’ regardless of what is in that journal, we simply need to do some fact finding so that we can uncover the mystery of why you eat the way you do, what’s not working and where you can make some simple adjustments. The exercise alone is very helpful in getting you into the habit of being more mindful about what you are eating but after two weeks, it’s time to have a date with yourself and grab some highlighters

to draw up your conclusions.

Where were you stress or emotional eating? What foods made you tired, bloated or had some negative physical reaction? What meals made you energized and focused? Where do you find yourself eating on autopilot? Highlight it all and take a good look at what you can now consciously shift to your benefit!

3. RIG YOURSELF FOR SUCCESS

Find your self-care practice for stressful days like getting a manicure, having a tea with a close girlfriend, going to a restorative yoga class, or taking a bath.

Photo Credit: Oleh Slobodeniuk

Picking up where we left off above, now that you know your habits, you can rig yourself for success. What does that look like? Well I’ll give you an example from my life, my weekdays are jam packed with clients, emails, shooting videos, writing, etc, and if left to my own devices I will just grab something to go or order delivery so I don’t mess up my work flow. I know that this leads to me eating food that isn’t the best and doesn’t make me feel great, not too mention is a bit costly after a while so instead, I plan out my meals for the work week on Sunday and make sure I have all the groceries in the house to make everything. What this also looks like, honoring my schedule

and my desire to not spend 2 hours making lunch and planning simple recipes that I can throw together in just a few minutes and often eating the same thing for breakfast and lunch all week long. Hey, not saying you need to do that but it really works for me and keeps me feeling fueled and nourished. Sorry seamless!

Find your trouble zones and create your own little hacks. Common ones I have helped clients with include: always in the car around lunch time and grabbing fast food, shifted to finding a ‘fast food’ restaurant with healthier options — Chipotle - honored her current work conditions while finding something

more nourishing than Mc Donald’s.

One client had a habit of grabbing a cupcake and a tea after particularly stressful days —I helped her see that her craving was actually a desire to be sweet to herself after a rough day and we came up with a list of selfcare practices for stressful days like getting a manicure, having a tea with a close girlfriend, going to a restorative yoga class, or taking a bath when she got home. Once you see your patterns, you have the power to make some small shifts that really hold the space for you to make the most loving choices for your body (and yourself!).

www.facethecurrent.com

121

4. MAKE YOUR KITCHEN A SACRED SPACE Sorry, you didn’t think you were going to make it through “Eat With Intention” day without hearing about the magic of cooking, did you?

Your kitchen is the most magical room of the house! It’s where you literally go for nourishment — what could be more crucial? If you are not someone who enjoys spending time in the kitchen, I highly suggest making it a sacred space. What does that entail? Make your kitchen very you. Put colors, pictures, and items out that feel good to you. Keep it

“

clean and organized so the energy feels clear and open — it’s a creative space where you can have fun playing around with new recipes or trying out the ones in your favorite cookbook, ahem, “Eat with Intention,” ahem, so keeping it clean will feel like you have a blank slate to work on. Bonus points if you want to grab some palo santo sticks or sage and do a little ceremonial energy clearing after you clean the fridge out!

Once your kitchen feels sacred,

I promise you will have so much more fun cooking and cooking for yourself is where so much of the magic is at. Making meals with love and infusing them with the intention of pure nourishment is one of the greatest ways you can love and care for yourself. Each recipe in my book has a mantra with it because I love infusing different meals with different intentions and pairing the ingredients in a recipe so that their natural properties support it.

Once your kitchen feels sacred, I promise you will have so much more fun cooking and cooking for yourself is where so much of the magic is at. Making meals with love and infusing them with the intention of pure nourishment is one of the greatest ways you can love and care for yourself.

“

122

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

5. HONOR THE WELLBEING TRIFECTA WITH YOUR DAILY RITUALS Lastly, I leave you with perhaps my most important teaching of all, one that has a whole chapter in “Eat with Intention” — the Wellbeing Trifecta, aka the foundation for your skyscraper life.You want that juicy, lit up life we chatted about earlier? Relate to the ‘wonder women’ I coach? Well the wellbeing trifecta is the key to it all.You have it all as long as you’ve created a space to hold it and your food, meditation and self-care are the trifecta that allows you to show up for everything else in your life as your best self. Now, we’ve got you covered on the food front after you food-mood journal and healthier hacks, you’ve got a two for one if you are using the body gratitude meditation to heal you relationship

with your body because it will also double as your morning meditation practice so now we just have to get you a self-care ritual to add to the mix!

A self-care ritual can be anything that feels restorative and nourishing to your soul. Some of my favorite include: going for a long walk in the morning sunlight, going on a hike, taking an Epsom bath as I wind down for the night, getting a manicure or a massage, or just curling up with a good book and a cup of tea on my couch. What fills your cup up? Put it on your schedule, at least once a week but bonus points if it’s something you can do even more often, make a recurring date with yourself — it’s good for your health!

Most of all, when times are crazy, things are busy at work, that guy just dumped you, your fighting with your mom, there’s a natural catastrophe going on in your backyard, whatever it may, remember that your wellbeing trifecta will anchor you down and support you through it.

These are the times that you train for! You get into these practices on a daily basis, and on good days they will be so easy to do because you are going to be so obsessed with how amazing you feel afterwards but on some days, they’re going to be harder to stick to, you’ll be tempted to slack and it’s those days where your wellbeing rituals will save you. I promise.

Happy Eating with Intention!

“

A self-care ritual can be anything that feels restorative and nourishing to your soul. Some of my favorite include: going for a long walk in the morning sunlight, going on a hike, taking an Epsom bath as I wind down for the night, getting a manicure or a massage, or just curling up with a good book and a cup of tea on my couch. What fills your cup up?

“

ymore info: Purchase book: “Eat with Intention” Instagram @cassandrabodzak www.cassandrabodzak.com www.facethecurrent.com

123

FtC health

How To Develop

Your Intuition

By Judith Orloff, MD

In Second Sight I recount my journey to accept and embrace my intuitive abilities. Intuition isn’t just something that strikes by chance. One must develop it.To do this, there are 5 essential steps that I’d like to share with you in this excerpt from the book.

124

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

5 Steps To Develop Intuition STEP 1: NOTICE YOUR BELIEFS Your beliefs set the stage for healing. Positive attitudes stimulate growth. Negative attitudes impede it. It’s important to rid yourself of counterproductive attitudes that you may not even realize you have. No organ system stands apart from your thoughts.Your beliefs program your neurochemicals.

STEP 2: LISTEN TO YOUR BODY Your body is a complex and sensitive intuitive receptor. Most people in Western society are conditioned to live from the neck up, ignoring the rest of their body. This stance is counter-intuitive. Being aware of the sensuousness of your body opens intuition. Then you’ll become more attuned to early warning signs your body sends.

www.facethecurrent.com

125

STEP 3: SENSE YOUR BODY’S SUBTLE ENERGY We are composed of flesh and blood, but also of subtle energy. Chinese Medical Practitioners call it “chi,” a vital substance, which penetrates the body and extends many feet beyond it. From an intuitive point of view, these vibrantly colored energy fields, whose centers are called chakras have a significant effect on our health.

For that reason, it is important that we learn to sense this energy within us, recognize when it is off, and learn to correct the imbalance.

Feeling energy can be very sensual, an extension of love. Learning to tap into your body’s energy is healing.

STEP 4: ASK FOR INNER GUIDANCE We each possess an intuitive voice that contains answers about our healing. Because our intellect is often so loud, this voice often gets drowned out. It’s essential that we learn to access the stillness within–though meditation, quite contemplation, connecting with nature, prayer-in order to gain answers about our health. Spend a few minutes each day devoted to listening to this voice. It may appear as a gut feeling, a hunch, an image, a sound, a memory, an instant knowingas if a light bulb suddenly switched on. Learn to trust the signals your inner wisdom sends.

126

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

STEP 5: LISTEN TO YOUR DREAMS Intuition is the language of dreams.

Every ninety minutes each night during the REM stage of sleep, we dream. Dreams provide answers about health, relationships, career choices, any new direction. The secret is to remember them. I suggest keeping a dream journal by your bed. Before you go to sleep, ask a dream a question. For instance, “Is this relationship healthy for me or should I move on?” The next morning, write down any dreams immediately before getting out of bed. Try repeating the question, every night for the next week until your answer comes. As you develop the habit of remembering dreams, you’ll be able to benefit from this form of healing. As a physician, I have a continual sense of awe for the relationship between body and spirit.

As your heart opens, so does your intuition.Your intuition will teach you how to see and how to love. It will instill in you a renewed faith to face anything.

ymore info: Purchase book “Second Sight” www.drjudithorloff.com www.facethecurrent.com

127

FtC fAce the current

128

FACE the CURRENT MAGAZINE

FtC - Fuel for an inspired life.

Be your potential.... www.facethecurrent.com