NATURAL LIVING ON THE CENTRAL COAST
ISSUE 12
Creativity EXPaNDED
PUPPET MASTERS
VILLaGE SUMMER
SPELT & FETA SaLad
Wholeness, Wellness & Wellbeing
tel: 02 4342 0434 • Email: feelingbetter@gnostichealing.com.au • 31 Chambers Place, Woy Woy 2256
Stefan Hafner Acupuncture, TCM (Mon/Tues/Thurs/Fri)
Acupuncturist specialising in the gentle Japanese Toyohari style. Stefan treats most health conditions with this ancient drug free holistic system. He also provides Leech therapy and Shonishin – Japanese Paediatric Acupuncture. Registered with all major health funds.
Jo Cameron Lomi Lomi Massage, Reflexology, Reiki (Thurs/Sat)
Trained in Hawaii and Australia, Jo offers the ultimate goddess treatment for rejuvenation and activating your inner pharmacy for healing on all levels. Using warm stones and luxurious coconut oil, the treatment also incorporates Reiki energy to revitalise and restore.
Wayne Carroll Bowen Therapy, Emmett Technique, Reiki (Wed/Fri)
Advanced Diploma Bowen Therapy & Reiki Teacher & practitioner. Wayne uses gentle moves over muscles, ligaments and tendons to release and reset muscle tension. This relieves joint pain and dysfunction returning the body to balance and harmony. Amazing results.
Karin Holyman DRM Clinical Laser/Trigger Point Massage Therapist (Mon/Sat)
Cold Laser is pain-free pain relief for any condition related to inflammation i.e. neck, back, shoulder, hip, knee, muscle pain, arthritis, bursitis, joints, headaches, scars, bruising. Karin also offers Anti-aging laser full depth lifting and is a 20 year qualified Trigger Point remedial massage specialist ATMS 8515.
Sarah Bruce Herbs/Nutrition, Massage – Remedial/Myofascial, Cupping (Wed/Fri) As a naturopath Sarah combines natural remedies with achievable lifestyle modifications, to effectively address your chronic health conditions. For massage she combines various techniques in order to offer an individualised approach whether for relaxation, sports rehabilitation or ongoing pain and stiffness. Nicola Kelly Medical Herbalist/Iridologist (Weekdays by appt.)
Nicola combines iridology with intuitive insight to identify genetic disposition and potential dis-ease patterns. As a medical herbalist she utilizes ancient cures for a modern world, food as medicine and practical lifestyle advice, alongside herbal remedies to treat physical and energetic disharmony.
Pamela Ridgewell Psychological Counselling and Psychotherapy (Mon/Tues by appt.)
Using a holistic approach, Pam helps people improve their wellbeing, alleviate stress, adjust to changes, resolve crises, and increase their ability to function more effectively in their lives. She sees children, adolescents and adults (Rebates available).
Angela Collongues Dip. Remedial Therapy, Sports Massage, Personal Trainer (Sun)
Providing a nurturing environment for her clients, Ange utilises a range of tailored, deep tissue techniques, to help treat conditions such as chronic imbalances, strains, sprains, scar tissue & adhesions, promoting relief from pain, improved range of movement & helping to speed recovery. (Rebates available)
Kelly Glendinning Remedial/Relax/Aromatherapy Massage, Aromatouch (Sat/Sun/Mon)
Kelly helps you to experience complete physical and emotional balance, via the healing power of massage and essential oils. She also offers Aromatouch technique which combines energy healing with drop-dosed therapeutic oils, to clear aura density and provide a lift to the vibrationary field.
Gina Mitchell Holistic Skin/Spa Therapy, Sugaring, Swiss Lymph Drainage (Tue/Thurs/Sat)
Gina is a Beauty & Wellness therapist with a background in holistic skincare and spa treatments. Her passion for detoxification, massage and herbal medicine comes together in a fusion of contemporary treatments and pure botanical ingredients, for a truly therapeutic and relaxation experience.
Erin Aiyana Therapeutic Massage, Cranial Sacral Balancing, Reiki, Reflexology (Tues/Sat by appt.)
With 20 years’ experience in the field of natural therapies, Erin specialises in Cranial Sacral balancing, Therapeutic massage, Reflexology and Reiki. She practices these physical and energetic modalities either separately or combined, to promote optimum wellness through freeing the body.
Tanya O’Casey Dual Diploma Mind & Body Medicine (MBM) & Kinesiology (Thurs/Sat by appt.) G
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MBM focuses on how certain mind-body interactions can produce disease provoking behaviours, whilst Kinesiology identifies factors which can block the body’s natural healing responses. Tanya combines these modalities to treat a wide range of physical & emotional conditions for mind-body balance.
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With a full heart,
PHOTO: LISA HAYMES
here’s a special feeling this time of year. Two parts excitement, one part adrenalin and three parts expectation of what the holidays might bring. We here on Gnostic Corner are all geared up and ready to serve you through the next few months to help make your gifting and relaxation time together special. Flip forward to the beautiful article on Service (pg 8), local artist and performer Benjamin Fraser and his creations (pg 5), delicious recipes for Spelt Summer Salad (pg 9) and Zucchini Fritters (pg 25) or just take your time to meander through the whole lot cover to cover. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all our customers – we are humbled and grateful for your kindness, generosity and friendship. You make being in retail so very gratifying. This is a crazy life and you are all part of the tapestry that is our Gnostic Community which keeps us strong. Have a safe and lovely Christmas and holidays and we look forward to seeing you soon. On our cover: Shelby, page 16
Emily editor@gnosticcorner.com.au
inside: EDITORS: Mary and Emily Holstein DESIGN: Justin Archer • www.jellytreestudio.com MAIN COVER PHOTO: Jelly Tree Studio DISTRIBUTION: Richard Harvey ADDITIONAL IMAGES: bigstock.com Advertising: Mary Holstein Advertising enquiries to Mary at: gnosticlivingmag@gnosticcorner.com.au Published by Gnostic Magazine ©2015 Gnostic Magazine is proudly printed on recycled paper by Rothfield Printing. We welcome your feedback and suggestions, please email: info@gnosticcorner.com.au
ARTIST/CREATIVITY EXPANDED...................... 5 WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO SERVE?.................... 8 ORGANICS/SUMMER WITH SPELT.................... 9 HENNA ME HAPPY.................................................. 11 PERSPECTIVE/A QUIET MIND........................... 12 GNOSTIC ROCKS + VILLAGEWEAR..................17 ART@MANA............................................................... 21 WISE GUYS/second arrow.......................... 22 YOGA.............................................................................23
Disclaimer: The information contained within Gnostic Magazine is given in good faith, obtained from sources believed to be accurate. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers who do not expect or invite any person to act or rely on any statement, opinion or advice contained herein. Interested persons should rely on their own enquiries.
EAT/ZUCCHINI FRITTERS..................................25
READ US online at gnosticcorner.com.au
REVIEWS......................................................................29
Gnostic comes from the ancient greek word gnosis, which means knowledge gained through personal experience.
Astrology...............................................................30
MEET/MADE, SILVERSMITH................................27 BOOKS...........................................................................28
Readers......................................................................31 G
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Gnostic School of Higher Learning Monday 10-11am: Meditation
You are exactly where you are meant to be every second of every day – so learn to relax and enjoy the journey. Experienced meditation teacher. Free class.
Contact Gayle Lee 0439 666 636 Monday 7pm: Philosophy
Philosophical discussion group compares science and spirituality. Explore quantum theories and learn to “know thyself” and understand your place in this world. $10
Contact Gnostic Forest for other courses and workshops 4344 5251
Wednesday 1.30pm: Philosophy
Philosophical discussion group compares science and spirituality. Explore quantum theories and learn to “know thyself” and understand your place in this world. $10
Contact Gary 0408 206 164
Experience the inner peace of meditation. You don’t require any special skills to learn to fall still and find the quiet place in your heart. $10
Contact Gnostic Forest and ask for Saimone 4344 5251
Tuesday Drumbala Ladies Beginners: 9.30–10.30am Advanced: 11.00am–12.00pm
THURSDAYS 7pm: Meditation
Contact Katy 4342 1112 Wednesday 10am: Free Talk
Learn how to meditate, and also how to create more inner peace, love, joy and happiness throughout every aspect of your life. This course is for everyone from beginners to experienced. $40
Owen Maher 0423 374 840
An informal but informative talk is given on various topics by a variety of speakers including authors and practitioners. Gold coin donation.
Explore the inner world and transform you experience of life. Regular meditation rebalances your energy and allows dealing with life to become easier. $10
Contact Christine 0488 022 114 Sunday 10am–1pm: Tarot classes
Wednesday 7pm: Meditation
Contact Gary 0408 206 164
Come along and have some fun being uplifted while awakening and expanding your inner rhythm. $15
Saturday 11am: Meditation
5 week courses studying the Tarot through Meditation, psychometry and the astrological meaning of the tarot. $180 for 5 week course.
Contact Jennifer 0411 156 722 3RD Sunday each month: Tao Te Ching lessons
Explore the way and virtue as explained by the ancient Chinese Saint Lao Zi. Aligning with these universal principals of truth will help you to explore your true nature. $5
Contact Chantal 0438 266 582 SundayS Ongoing Evolutionary Astrology Forums and workshops
Contact Gnostic Forest for scheduled dates 4344 5251
It is our intention to offer space for the distribution of knowledge. Each facilitator shares their opinions and students receive through their own interpretation taking full responsibility to discern their own gnosis.
www.drumbala.com Thus shall you think of this fleeting world:
Adult Drumming Courses Ladies Drumming @ Gnostic Forest • Drumming Courses In Schools • Community Drum Circles – Monthly • Birthday Drumming Parties – All Ages • Holiday Drumming Play Shops • Weddings, Events,Team Building • Quality Drums & Accessories For Sale
For info & bookings call KATY & WARREN: (02) 4342 1112 or 0423 548540
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A star at dawn, a bubble in a stream; A flash of lightning in a summer cloud; A flickering lamp, a phantom, and a dream. –Diamond Sutra
PHOTOS AND ART: Benjamin Fraser
ARTIST
CREATIVITY EXPANDED
Attempting to interview Benjamin Fraser is fun. There is beading and singing and tangents in conversation that take hours to come back from. Normally a magazine interview goes something like this: Who they are, Where they came from, what they do, snippet of quote, round it out with a summary. This is not that interview.
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he path that led a boy from the “Cenny Coast’’ through the grinder of reality television at the tender age of 16 and out the other side was harsh he says. It would be unkind and
unnecessary to dig that shit up (think bullying and commercialism and being bought and sold) so we won’t. We can say, though, that this served as a fertiliser to feed his expanding creativity. As a result Benjamin creates mindfully, seeking not to hurt or degrade anyone in his expression but to inspire them. It seems there is a constant internal process of refining and unpacking societal accepted practice for what is true, fair and most often this involves pushing boundaries. As well as the more well known outlets for creation (including singing, composing and playing music, writing, movie making, art direction, drawing and painting) Benjamin’s expression extends out to the most amazing wearable art. Regularly performing through Sydney and G
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Central Coast as well as open mike events in his creations, Benjamin’s background of theatre shows a strength in costumery and theatrical make-up. Like many creative young people on the Central Coast he moved away to seek further development in a larger city (Melbourne). His travels gathered a network of artists with whom he still works often. Collaborating, photographing and supporting one another, they have become like family. Creative expression is natural to this Leonine being and Benjamin breathes out songs in perfect husky pitch, mid conversation. All amid discussions of cultural appropriation, gender and its restrictions and joys, societal norms, creative expression and conspiracy. Just your regular afternoon really. Exploring the place between a need for money to exist and its ultimate worthlessness (really its just paper/plastic we give value to) took us some time. Working out a business model when your strong suit is spontaneous art and expression is a cruel task. I am delightfully pulled in and find myself commissioning a necklace to be made and throwing handfuls of my old broken jewellery into the mix to be reformed.
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Gone are the days of the patron, sponsoring artists whose work felt valuable to continue to produce and create. Being around this spontaneous beauty and expression makes me want for its renaissance and now I have a Benjamin Fraser original artwork to wear. Benjamin Fraser can be found on instagram@_benjaminfraser_ and on Facebook via Benjamin Fraser
NATURAL LIVING oN THE CENTRAL COAST
Bohemian Furniture
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What Does It Mean To Serve?
There is a space deep inside my heart that truly wishes to honour and serve the Divine. More and more I ask myself how can I serve and what is service?
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believe we can all serve, each and every one of us, in our own way. It may be smiling at a stranger as you walk down the street, it may be offering to carry a heavy bag for another who needs a little help, or maybe it is simply stopping to ask someone how they are. Each time we act from that pure place from within our hearts the divine shines its love down upon us and this vibration of love is magnified and a ripple effect occurs within our reality, hearts open, tears fall, smiles broaden and the vibration upon the earth we all walk lifts. I serve through my hands. Over the years I have come to realise it is a blessed gift that I feel honoured to share. At times when I massage I feel angels of light surround me and I feel a deep peace, a lightness, gentleness, compassion and a vibration of love that helps to facilitate healing. At times during treatments when I give in this way I am so moved by gratitude that I offer up one hand to the heavens in thanks so that the angels that have supported me know that I feel their presence and have been deeply honoured. More and more each day I realise service is not what your mind thinks it to be, service is not what your ego wants it to be, it is not recognition, it is not acknowledgement. Service is in the most humble of moments. It is often the moments that are not seen, not spoken G
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of and not heard. It is the moments when you open yourself up like a vessel to feel the wave of universal source light flow through you, then you may be guided by words, there may be action but more often than not there is simply presence and holding sacred space. My journey has been fraught with challenges, setbacks, disappointments and at times great emotional pain, yet it is my connection to the eternal spirit of the I am presence and grounding this through my body and my hands and offering this forward as a gift that has been one of my most greatest joys. So for those of us on the healing path – which ultimately I believe we are all – look to the beauty within you and all around you. Open your heart, look to the heavens in thanks for this marvel of creation we are all part of, for this is your gift, this is your service. Through this magical process as a collective of the one heart the vibration of love will raise and the heavens will shine down upon us magnifying this vibration, this wave of love. Let us co create together, open our hearts in oneness and serve if you feel the call. I know I do. Kelly is embracing the path of service and learning about what this means for her in each new moment. She is an Aromatherapist and Remedial Massage Therapist at Gnostic Healing Centre on Saturdays and Sundays.
ORGANICS
SUMMER with
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SPELT
pelt is a highly nutritious ancient cereal grain, rich in fibre and protein. This amazing grain contains 17% protein, 57.9 Carbohydrates, 3% fat. Spelt contains a moderate amount of gluten and has a different molecular structure to wheat. The insoluable fibre is easier to digest. Similar to wheat in appearance it comes with a tough exterior the husks protect the grain from pollutants and insects which allows the growers to avoid using pesticides. Spelt has the right combination of nutrients loaded with Riboflavin (vitamin B2) Manganese, Niacin, Thiamin & Copper. Eating foods with Riboflavin can help with Migrane headaches. Spelt has a delicious nutty flavour and can be substituted for wheat grain or rice. You could also try rolling it so it can be used as porridge. It is suitable for home milling, and wonderful for pilafs and salads. Gnostic Organics • Tel: (02) 4341 8900
Summer Spelt Salad • • • • • • • • • •
1 1/2 cups spelt grain 4 1/2 cups water 1/2 red onion finely chopped 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes halved 1 cucumber chopped 1 cup olives pitted 1 tblspn white vinegar 1 tblspn olive oil 1/2 cup crumbed fetta cheese Salt & pepper
Boil the spelt in the water, reduce and simmer till the spelt has absorbed the water and is tender. Rinse spelt in cold water and refrigerate Whisk oil and vinegar, toss spelt, onion, tomatoes, cucumber & olives. Add favorite dressing & fetta last Season to taste G
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surf, skate and street wear
drøm lifestyle
Shop 2/8 Chambers Place Woy Woy www.drom.com.au
100% pure beeswax No added color or fragrance
Now available at
Gnostic Forest
Chambers Place, Woy Woy G
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Henna me happy by Gypsy Artemis
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enna, or mehndi in Hindi, is the name given to a fairly large plant with white flowers that grows in North Africa, the Middle East, India & South East Asia. It has several medicinal properties, but most of us know it as being a cool source of a reddish-brown natural dye that can be applied to the skin creating a temporary tattoo, or applied to the hair as a dye. It is not known for certain where and when the use of henna for skin decoration originated, but there is no doubt that it is a very ancient practice. 5000 year old mummies in Egypt have been found to be wearing henna. Mehndi likely began here and spread across the world! Traditionally, henna has been used in religious ceremonies, including weddings and other festive occasions. Here on Australian shores, however, we need no particular reason to adorn ourselves with this gift from Mother Earth herself, other than it being relaxing to have
applied, and beautiful for 7-10 days afterwards, on average. Henna powder and paste is super easy to get your hands on. Gnostic Forest stocks it, for example, and other places on the Coast. Not all henna powders and pastes are the same though, and many pre-mixed henna cones contain nasty chemicals, some of which can really damage and burn your skin. The trick really is to know what’s in your henna, avoid any brands where you can’t read the label, and start mixing your own henna! Also remember that 100% natural henna ranges in colour from orange to dark maroon only. Black henna, white henna, or any other colour henna do not exist naturally, and such colours would have to be chemically created using dyes and the like. Natural henna takes a fair amount of time to dye your skin too, and is best left on overnight. Once the henna paste is removed, its stain takes 3 days to reach its maximum depth too, so should be applied 2-3 days before that special event. If you are wanting to treat yourself to a beautiful, unique henna tattoo for your next Summer event, our local henna artist, Gypsy Artemis from Pickled Tink will be at Gnostic Forest. Check in store for details. Gypsy is a Central Coast based shamanic midwife, artist and end of life worker. www.sacredhunger.com.au gypsy@sacredhunger.com.au G
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PERSPECTIVE PERSPECTIVE
That peace was better than war; because in peace the sons did bury their fathers, but in wars the fathers did bury their sons.
my mind to the Universal mind. The Universal Mind is the collective store of all information. New ideas enter into a quiet mind. If we have lots of internal chatter going on a new thought cannot break through. These new ideas aren’t ours, just like any other gift something new does not belong to you until you accept it. They are pieces of information being directed to us from the collective Universal Mind. This information is directed at you because you asked for the answer to a question, or you sought a toless a situation. An easy, disturbing way to do this is to hese words are subjective, and that means solution A Gnostic understanding about livingTry in to a read about civilisations from the past. they are open to interpretation by the world of Polarity is that there cannot exist really get a feeling for their behaviour anda individual. We all see things differently. question without answer, a disease without understand what an motivated them – why they Because our life experiences influence the aaccepted cure or athe problem a solution. thingswithout that they did. ThenJust see way we look at the world each day, we are as there be no day without night, or no them as would your own ancestors, imagine how the bound to see things from different angles. hen you fallwe still youour willown be able to get hot without these cannot exist changes thatcold, came withthings time had an influence In most cases view behaviour clarityand on everyone almost any situation. If you on without remedy or solution. on themtheir and eventually you end up in the 21st as normal else’s is a variation can’t, just fallreally evenhard stiller. do this you need to century The perfection of this is thatbeyou will in your own life.world You might able to that. It gets atTo times to understand be ablepeople’s to quieten theofmind, cease the endonly be given information that you understand, see that the threads of influence through time some point view,to certainly their less chatter.–The at your level won’t get an change whatofisawareness. acceptableYou behaviour. behaviour evenmagic their thing ethics.about thoughts is they fade away unless you fed by them with idea that you understand how great isor Things thatcan’t we once thought–of as absurd We tend to deceive ourselves thinking another Wecertain tend topeople, get an idea and that? The creative principle, it God or when whatridiculous now seem not socall far left field that we thought. understand we feel then we add another thought to itpoint and another youthe like, is only going direct information we see influences thatto happened along the that because they have a familiar of view ever and before have a comyou can comprehend. way tothat leadyou us to our current understanding. to ours theylong are we right, yettold thisourselves just means their to plete story about We Other people we canwill tell be us things we don’t And remember judgedthat by others for experiences havesomething. been similar tohave ours.created Maybe an entire that might might not be understand – thatalso. is because they are coming our limited views they grewsituation up in a society withor a similar code true. If we behaviour, just observe thought, it will fade from their level of awareness. The famous 16th Everyone is doing the best they can at all of ethical oratheir family followed and disappear. Century Philosopher Sr Francis Bacon times, given the limitations they havesaid that“to are the same principles. We can’t ever completely Let’s consider mind andofitsothers. purpose. theby answer all questions hold the caused fears, to doubts and lackjust of underunderstand the the motivations Gnostics find Your mind is that like aall bank where you save old thought standing.in mind.” understand – absolutely ALL– conflict information. There is nothing new in your mind So life is that simple – to find your When wereally accept the things that influence comes from misunderstanding. because its function toeasier store previous answers hold the question in and mind. Don’t allow other peoples’ ethics, morals principles we It certainly makes is life if we mixknowlwith edge forwho use have in thevalues future.like I remember where other thoughts accumulate around can live withouttoconflict. And when wethe realise people ours. We know Iwhat put the car keys, so I them can use thewe caralso to get to that oursquestion are based on opinions wemind mightand even to expect from and know original though. Clear the where I need I know how to operate prepared to let them change with time. what we can to getbe. away with. However, realthe be ready to accept the gift of solution. washing because I remember doing spiritual machine growth comes when we dare to stepit Mary Holstein––can Co-owner ofquestioning Gnostic Mary Holstein be found many times before. outside our own ethics, morals and principles Forest Gnostic Bunch. Examining things and at Gnostic Forest most days. However, if I want to figure out something and try understanding a completely different my own ethics every time travel to a culture. different culture. new I need to fall still and connect outside
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a quiet mind
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Ethics All problePrinciples msMorals are solved in
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MEDICINE CROW MASTER SHAMAN SHAMAN DRUM MAKING Drum making workshops
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www.medicinecrow2.com medicinecrow2@hotmail.com facebook.com/medicinecrow 0402 776 388
YOGA
No gimmicks @ Peninsula Yoga – Move, Breathe, Focus, Relax
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teach Yoga, I practice Yoga, I study Yoga but it seems the meaning of the word “yoga” has many connotations. Yoga is one of the six systems of Indian Philosophy known as darsana. Yoga has its origins in the Vedas, it was systemised in the Yoga Sutra by Patanjali around 400 BCE. The word translates from Sanskrit to mean “to join, or union”. The purpose of Yoga is to control the fluctuating state of the mind, a definition which is very direct but at the same time very broad and open to a wide range of interpretations. In the materialistic modern world we live in the word “Yoga” has been dissolved and watered down to such a degree that in some cases bears little resemblance to the original ancient teachings. All you have to do is mention “yoga” in a general conversation and listen to the range of responses, people might ask about contortion of the body, levitation, vegetarianism, hippies and orange robes – anything but clearing the mind. There’s a lot confusion between the monastic class and the householder yogi. I’m a realist. I understand that in modern life householder yogis can’t simply renounce the world and dedicate their entire being to a
spiritual path, not everyone wants to become a monk or a nun, it’s a calling and I’m very respectful of those who choose a monastic life. The householder yogi is a person just like you and I, someone who works, pursues an education, raises children, accumulates and lives in the real world but is dedicated to a yogic lifestyle. — John Wilson, www.peninsulayogacentre.com.au
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VILLagE SummER @
Gnostic Villagewear & Gnostic Rocks
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JELLY TREE STUDIO / MODEL: SHELBY / PHOTO: LISA HAYMES
Stonewash Halterneck Dress $35.00 Crystal Mala Beads $39.95 From Nepal, these mala Beads can be used for prayer, mantras or affirmations. Pictured are Carnelian for creativity and memory.
JELLY TREE STUDIO / MODEL: SHELBY / PHOTO: LISA HAYMES
Sleeveless Shirt w/Buttons $33.75 available in a range of bright colours with or without sleeves. Flare Mandala Print Pants $42.00 Paper Braid Safari Hat $24.95
Chrysocolla Pendant - Made In Earth Creations - Chrysocolla aids in the expression of the sacred Goddess power and assists learning what true wisdom is. $330.00. JELLY TREE STUDIO / MODEL: SHELBY / PHOTO: LISA HAYMES
Chip Bracelets: Come in a wide variety of different crystals starting at just $4.00 each. Shoestring Strap Flower Panel Dress $60.50
Herkimer Diamond, Rose Quartz and Moonstone Beaded Necklace (also see page 3)locally made. $115.50. Many different styles to choose from. G
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ON THE CORNER
Delectable Australian grown olives Mount Zero Olives are all about sustainable farming, ethical harvest and a passion for flavour and quality. Available at Gnostic Organics, T: 4341 8900
Nature’s Power Exquisite Vial Pendants with real crystals. Peridot (left) for Happiness and Fun, Turquoise (right) for flow of thought and communication, and Chakra Stones (top) to help balance the energy centres of the body. Perfect presents! $19.95 each. Available at Gnostic Rocks, T: 4342 9982
Heaven in a mouthful! The most delicious handcrafted coconut milk vegan ice cream. Delicious and Dairy Free. Available at Gnostic Organics, T: 4341 8900
Boulevarde Boss Burger $15 gets you double beef, double cheese, bacon, homemade onion rings, aioli, lettuce and tomato. Available at Boulevard Burgers, T: 4341 8408
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The Bite Stuff! Meg’s Good Bites are a delicious all natural alternative treat. A superfood bite of goodness made with only natural ingredients. Available at Gnostic Mana Cafe, T: 4344 1444
ON THE CORNER Ganesha The son of Shiva and Parvati, Ganesha is the Lord of success and destroyer of evils and obstacles. He is also worshipped as the god of education, knowledge, wisdom and wealth. Available at Gnostic Forest, T: 4342 4466
Spotted on the corner: Mike Whitney and Sydney Weekender crew. Our segment airs in February 2016.
Mystic Ts This colourful range of T-Shirts feature Hindu deities. From left: Hanuman, Kali, and Shiva. $27.50 each. Available at Gnostic Villagewear, T: 4341 2 0544
Scents that inspire! A truly awesome array of incense from around the world to arouse your senses. Available at Gnostic Forest, T: 4342 4466
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art@MANA
Gnostic Mana Cafe features monthly exhibitions from the Central Coast’s leading artists. JANUARY: Elizabeth Gordon-Werner
Elizabeth Gordon-Werner is a constant painter, carrying a watercolour painting kit wherever she goes, whether it is on the beach, out sailing or in a cafe. Many of the paintings in this exhibition were painted ‘en plein air’ (in the landscape) and have an immediacy and vibrancy that is hard to replicate in the studio. The ‘Beach’ series is interesting in that the paintings have a very unusual 3D effect. Elizabeth achieved this by sewing figures onto her beach side paintings. If you look closely you can see the stitching!
FEBRUARY: Karen Mcphee I often reference the natural world within my art practice and in recent work have used foliage as a stencil to create mono prints. These prints are collaged onto board or paper to be further explored with imagery. I am interested in the qualities that paint can provide – transparency, translucency and opacity, and have used these elements to overlay the print with my brushwork. Flora and fauna are broadly used as symbols that relate to everyday life. My still life observations in this February exhibition are a response to commonplace objects such as cups and saucers, fruit and vegetables, wheel thrown pottery and other incidentals. Often painted in gouache, they explore light and form using line and colour. APRIL: Angela K Dennis and Dawn Luttrell
Angela always loved flowers. Winning her first prize for the painting of a Gladioli at twelve, she went on to study at Epsom School followed Tel: Art (02) 4341 0544by the London College of Fashion. Last August Thea Boulevarde she held successful solo artWoy showWoy at The Gosford Gallery. “Painting flowers fuels my very being,” she says.
Dawn’s recent work was helping with the Peninsula Women’s Health Centre water tank mural in Woy Woy and illustrations for the Brisbane Water Historical Society Cookery Book in 2014. Being a perfectionist she enjoys painting the beauty, richness of colour and intricacies of nature. She intends to leave not her ‘Footprints in the Sand’ but her ‘Brushstroke on Mankind’. G
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WISEGUYS ourselves in harmony with these realities, is the chief cause of our self-inflicted suffering and, therefore the chief obstacle to our happiness. One of the great contributions of Gautama Buddha was the realization that ignorance is the primary cause of the sufferings we impose on ourselves and others.” It turns out there is a perfect sanskrit word for it, Avidya. It translates directly as “failure to see or know”. Sitting in suffering is (don’t get mad...) a form of ignorance to what is. We have the information, the reality. Yet we are fighting or denying it and so we extend our upset beyond the reality to the thoughts we have around it. Old habits to choose suffering die hard. Right on back from “Muuuuuuum! Dale make me feel here is a Buddhist teaching that says that when you get hurt by, for example, an arrow, saaaaaad!” to not getting the promotion/last doughnut/seat on the train. There are definitely that is pain. The arrow hitting your arm hurts. things that we suffer through much more sePain is a signal. rious than these. Much more. The world shows However, there is a second arrow. This one us this and our social media feeds are filled with is your reaction to the first and it is the upset, reasons to re-frame our own problems. angry, “planning revenge” arrow. There is a beautiful saying, “If we all threw our The second arrow is beyond pain. It is sufferproblems in a pile and saw everyone else’s, we’d ing. Suffering is an attachment. A “how things should be” judgement. “Why did I get hit?” “Who grab ours back.” To make the road of our days smoother shot at me?” “Wait till I find them!” though perhaps we can pull out the second We create a fuzz around the reality of things arrow on some stuff. by judging them or wishing for them to be different to the reality that they are. Psychiatrist of 45 years and practicing budEmily is mindful of her own suffering and dhist Ron Leifer explains it better. “The unwillattempts to lessen the suffering of others ingness or failure to see the facts of life as they through activism and her choice to be vegan. are, to see ourselves as we are, and to conduct
SECOND ARROW T
Silver Jewellery • Gemstones • Mineral Specimens Now supplying gemstone beads.
Many different styles – all top grade! Chambers Place, Woy Woy Tel: (02) 4342 9982
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Pickled Tink!
Sacred Hunger
‘art with heart’
‘bringing the sacred to life & death’
Pregnant belly casting & repairs
Specialising in rites of passage
D.I.Y. belly casting kits
Shamanic medicine drum making workshops
100% natural henna tattooing, workshops & kits
‘Spiritual Practice of Menstruation’ workshops & 1-1 sessions
Private parties & events
Menarche healing
Blessingways
‘The Deepening’: sacred circles for women & men
Photography and more!
‘Becoming a Woman’ maiden & mamma circles
Contact: Gypsy Artemis Phone: 0406 502 715 Email: gypsy@sacredhunger.com.au Websites: pickledtink.com.au sacredhunger.com.au
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Delicious
FooD
BReakfast BRoadband & LuNch & wireless AVAILABLE Open 7 days Ph: 4344
1444
Chambers Place, WoyWoy G
Gnostic Coffee Company is 8
now producing and serving its own unique full bodied blend, known and loved @ Gnostic Mana Cafe. Single Origins also available.
Tel: (02) 4344 1444 E: gnosticmanacafe@ bigpond.com House Blend available for $30 for 1kg or $10 for 250g, Single Origin $13 for 250g
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EAT Lunch@GnosticManaCafe
ZUCCHINI + CORN FRITTERS Serves 2
• • • • •
2 zucchini, grated 2 corn cobs, kernels only 1/2 Spanish onion, finey diced 1/2 red capsicum, diced 1/4 cup gluten free flour (any flour works well) • 1 egg • optional herbs – dill is delicious!
Mix egg and flour into a smooth paste, season with salt and pepper. Add all vegetables and herbs and stir well. The flour mixture should just bring the vegetables together. If necessary you can increase the amount of flour before cooking. Heat some oil in a large frypan, or on a flat BBQ plate. Cook veggie mix in small 4cm size patties for approx. 4-5 minutes each side or until golden. Serve with salad, and your favourite relish.
Zucchini is a great source of vitamin C and also boosts your intake of manganese, an essential mineral. Both of these help protect your body from harmful free radicals.
Ginger berry cooler Cool down on a hot summer day with this refreshing mix. • Small bottle ginger beer • 4 blueberries • 3 strawberries • Ice
Pop all into blender, blitz and enjoy!
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MEET:
MADE/SILVERSMITH in BALI
(above) Each new piece of jewellery begins with the idea. (left) The final piece is created.
M
ade (pronounced ‘mahDAY’) has been working as a silversmith for 18 years and for the last 5 has been working for Doron and Sandy of Australian jewellery creators Blue Turtles. A Balinese Hindu and father of 2, Made is one of a long line of talented silversmiths who work with this family-run business. Like many Balinese faces the first thing you notice about Made is his big smile. Doron says “Made works exclusively for Blue Turtles now. He works from home, which he prefers to working at a factory, as he did before. We set him up with what he needed so he could be independent and he rewards us with his beautiful craftsmanship.” G
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(below) This beautiful Hindu ceremony was held in Made’s home after he recently completed renovations.
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BOOKS
For all you ‘Krill-seekers’ out there… May I tempt you with a punny playful adventure into the deep blue sea – an adventure filled with an enchanting mix of fact and fantasy?
I’m Ilana – a local veterinarian and artist. My work expresses my passion for animal welfare, wildlife conservation and educating communities to care for all creatures. My professional journey has spanned the lush forests of South East Asia and the raw beauty of outback Australia. I’ve assisted rangers to locate and treat limping elephants and hand-raised baby bandicoots orphaned following tragic mishaps on the road. I’ve had the privilege of being contracted to Animal Welfare, and Parks and Wildlife in the Northern Territory; and volunteering for an organisation that supports Indigenous communities to care for their animals. I’m now placed in a terrific clinic on the Central Coast that generously supports the provision of gold-standard care, free of charge to sick wildlife. Animals walk, fly or slither-in for treatment, brought by beautiful souls from our community. Whilst interacting with wildlife in their natural habitats, I’ve learned the value of diversity and the importance of education to sustain the colourful tapestry of life. I’ve expanded my professional scope to include both veterinary work and art as my way of putting out the animal welfare and conservation message on behalf of voiceless creatures. I have written and illustrated a children’s book entitled Licence to Krill, which utilises humour, rhyme and quirky illustration to communicate fact and fantasy. Prior to publication a year ago, the content of Licence to Krill was reviewed for accuracy by marine biologists, specialist marine mammal veterinarians and senior educators. It has been very well received by children across a wide range of ages and has formed the foundation for workshops on wildlife conservation and animal welfare in primary schools, libraries G
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and school holiday programs. In one such workshop, animals were crafted from recycled materials by children and parents as they learned about marine animals and their habitats. As the family groups learned surprising truths, discussions ensued and a contagious passion that was a joy to witness, spread from children to adults. Interestingly the book has also found a place in the hearts of seniors, who know the value of embracing their inner child! This book is a great gift for nature loving kids, and a must for all junior conservationists. It embodies kind intention towards nature and her creatures – including us! Licence to Krill is available now at Gnostic Forest. For more info visit www.krillseeker.org
REVIEWS Omservations BY Hanuman Das • RRP $26.95 • Available @ Gnostic Forest
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his interestingly titled book is a look at the discoveries of Hanuman Das. In over 20 years of spiritual seeking and teaching, he has compiled tips for following a spiritual path in a modern world. Practical exercises, helpful tools and guidance is drawn from all the major religions and collated into a useful how-to book. Over 300 pages including a glossary of new age terms and mantras. – MH
Medicine Crow – Soaring ARTIST: Medicine Crow • RRP $25.00 • Available @ Gnostic Forest
D
r Medicine Crow is a Chief of the Sand Hill Band of Indians who are Cherokee-Delaware Descendants. Crow as he is known around Gnostic Corner is one of our elders who inspires us with his knowledge gained from ancestors. This compilation CD is a great reminder of the connection his people had with our earth. – MH
Liz Macnamara Clinical Hypnotherapist ■
■ ■
Stop Smoking $250 – two sessions Lose Weight Release Anxiety
Fresh Flowers at Market prices
Ph: 4341 0464 Web: lizmacnamara.com Open & delivering 7 days
6 Oval Ave, Woy Woy
Ph/fax (02) 4344 5251 Chambers place, Woy Woy NSW
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DECEMBER deCeMBeR SEPTEMBER Slow physical, Where there was 4HIS MONTH YOU psychological energies failure before it is now for DECEMBER 2015, ARE PUTTING AN for deCeMBer 2013, and disappointment for September, OCTOBER time to be practical && FEBRUARY 2016 JANUARY EXTRA EFFORT INTO FeBRUARY 2014 may make youto feel JAnUARY AND NOVEMBER 2013 and positive see YOUR PERSONAL overwhelmed, how you can confused achieve INVOLVEMENT WITH and it seems like you success in many areas YOUR STABILITY SECURITY are intreading your life,water... especially AND ESPECIALLY YOUR Follow yourInvesting true self business. and don’tfuture? let others PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES in your dominate your thoughts Now is an excellent 9OU WILL ½ ND WHEN time as you have a and goals. While DEALING WITH Jennifer has been anan Astrologer  greater understanding following your faith/ AUTHORITY ½ GURES Jennifer has been Astrologer *ENNIFER HAS BEEN AN !STROLOGER of the rules involved for 24 years (FAA Certificate) and spiritual pursuits and a YOU ARE CREATIVE for 22 years (FAA CertiďŹ cate) and is FOR YEARS &!! #ERTI½ CATE AND IS where you regime are ableatto good health is atatGnostic Forest on Fridays. DISCIPLINED HAVE Gnostic Forest on Fridays. give andin take whilst AT 'NOSTIC &OREST ON &RIDAYS this point time will A DEEPER LEVEL OF nding the right befihelpful in healing WISDOM AND ARE ABLE balance. An loves older and wounds, As the year moves on the earth past TO COMPROMISE WITH person may also be hurts. Avoid anything continues its orbit around the ,UNAR %CLIPSE TH /CT A CLEAR MIND !S YOU influential, giving to do with the occult in AM ´ !RIES you the DENT ON A confidence to sun. This natural progression FEEL CON½ general,better to use make new plans and PROFESSIONAL LEVEL YOU changes our position in relation your energy in positive 3OLAR %CLIPSE RD .OV to attract the right MAY ALSO HAVE HIGH to the PM ´ 3CORPIO other planets and the activities to stop you resources. A month EXPECTATIONS OF YOUR from feeling defeated. following inuences occur‌ of discoveries and for LOVED ONES some, a promotion.
EVENTS
Planetary Planetary Planetary Influences influences Influences
JANUARY January OCTOBER A very testing time – Intense encounters /CTOBER MAY ½ ND lacking self confidence, from powerful YOU MENDING BROKEN feeling peopleanxious, who prey on BRIDGES AND PAVING challenged and a little your vulnerability THE WAY FOR A NEW shaky. Reflect and see may occur this FUTURE 0AST what is really important month. Be aware inEXPERIENCES WILL SEE your as this will not tolife, be coerced YOU REAPING REWARDS help to feel efficient intoyou underhanded and effectively facing AS THERE WILL BE A dealings or subversive your responsibilities. tactics. Stand your SIGNI½ CANT TURNING ground as you can and reaching your POINT IN YOUR LIFE bringwhilst insightremaining and goals, LEAVING ALL PAST ISSUES balance power calm and the at ease. Being AND MISTAKES BEHIND to make you strong. active, walking, running, YOU %XPRESSION You must be pent honest using up your up OF KNOWLEDGE with yourself as you energy, rather than RESPECT JOY AND transform weakness isolating yourself WISDOM ARE PERFECT within, healing can also help you to KEYWORDS AS YOU ½ past grudges and ND restructure and rebuild grievances. Working ENJOYMENT WITHIN your life in a positive through this you will THE FAMILY UNIT way. feel confident as you PLUS AN INCREASE IN immerse yourself in SATISFACTION WITHIN loved ones, friends, YOUR WORK social activities and community care.
FEBRUARY February NOVEMBER Relying on your own Sees aresources drive for and self$ESTINY BECKONS AS inner success andwill power THERE ARE POWERFUL confidence give you as your mind and CHANGES AHEAD the energy to overcome concentration -ANY DOORS ARE any disruption or intensify. Obsessive resentment that comes OPENING AS YOU behaviour, pessimistic your way. Be aware of ARE FEELING CON½ DENT thinking, and worrying “dubiousâ€? people that AND HAVE HIGH about the small stuff tell you... “something ENERGY WITH THE may make you want that seems too good to cut corners. Not a ABILITY TO THINK to be trueâ€?... because good idea! Proceed itVERY CLEARLY WHEN usually is! Being with caution! Listen MAKING DECISIONS serious may make you to other peoples ideas 4HERE MAY BE SOME have some as they canpessimistic be helpful INTENSE MOMENTS thoughts, by keeping to bring tosoyou into a your communication EMOTIONALLY OR new cycle of thinking. skills open will give you FEELING VULNERABLE Your mental energy is astrong. “positive outlookâ€?! Let AT TIMES BUT IF YOU Expect sudden go ofexciting the “small stuffâ€? STAY ON TRACK YOUR and changes and concentrate as you are eageron for SENSE OF SECURITY WILL beginning a new cycle more interesting BRING GREATER STABILITY of ideas that will keep subjects enter TO YOU todisciplined your yourmind life. Health realizing you can and issues, nutrition and bring these ideason into fitness are high the your future. agenda.
Burgers•HOT DOGS•FISH & CHIPS•COFFEE•ICECREAM
Shop 4, 18 The Boulevarde, Woy Woy•Ph: 4341 8408 G 30 G 0 '
Readers
Gnostic Forest offers readings daily from 10am – 4pm. phone 02 4344 5251 Bridget – Mon Experienced intuitive Palm Reader. The lines on the hand are a directory to the personality and events both past and future. By understanding these influences you can make conscious choices about your future direction. Loretta – Tues Experienced and graceful, Loretta uses her psychic abilities, tarot, numerology and messages from your guides to help clarify your current situation and move into your future with confidence. Barbara – Tues, Wed Those who have passed over communicate with Barbara, a psychic medium, to help clarify current situations. She gives comfort, guidance and direction so you can move forward in life. Ingrid – Wed, Thurs, Sun Warm and nurturing, Ingrid uses psychic abilities, tarot, numerology and dream interpretation skills to help you gain clarity of past, potential futures and present. June – Thurs June makes contact with loved ones that have passed over. Looks at where you have been and where you are going in life. Michelle – Fri, Sat Michelle works with your dream images and the tarot to help with enabling you to develop a higher self-awareness. Jennifer – Fri, Sat Genuine and honest, Jennifer uses tarot, astrology and numerology to give specific and accurate information about now and timing for future possibilities. Mercy – Sun, Mon Medium. Using the wisdom of the Liquid Crystal Oracle and her skills as a medium Mercy connects with your highest truth and lost loved ones to help gain comfort insight and motivation to make positive change in your life.
Readers offer their interpretations of the situation and possible outcomes. As this is the world of free will you always have the power to change outcomes and determine your own future. G
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