Inner Tapestry "Are We There Yet?" August September 2011

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A Holistic Journal Celebrating & Supporting LIFE!

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Tapestry Grief Hurts

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Inspire(d)

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Change ~ Part 4

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The Way Of Tarot ~ Life Patterns And The Soul's Journey

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The Way Of Life It-self ~ The End May Not Be Near, So There!

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Loving Earth ~ What Is Green Construction?

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Wandering Sage Wisdom ~ Honoring The Journey

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Modern Shamanic Living ~ Sustaining Spiritual Patience

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Exploring The World Religions ~ Apocalypse – The End Of The World Real And Imagined

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The 21st Century Bohemian Holding The Power Of Peace

 Are We There Yet? 

Volume 10, No. 2

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Aug/Sept 2011

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UP CO MING THEMES

Contents

This Issue's Theme

O c tober/November 2011

M ov i n g At The Sp eed o f Grace

August/September 2011

Are We There Yet?

Let t ing G o o f I t All

Features Grief Hurts

Februar y/M arch 2012

And S o I t B egi ns Page

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Apr i l/M ay 2012

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A New G enerat i o n

by Roland Comtois

Inspire(d)

D ecember 2011/J anuar y 2012

by Holly Howley

Change ~ Part 4

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by Maria Harrison

Are We There Yet?

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by Jill Marie Langdon

Now Is The Time To Begin!

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by Carol Daigneault

The Way Of Tarot - Life Patterns and The Soul's Journey

Page 28

by Karen Hollis

Page 30

by Eric Maisel, Ph.D.

A New Tool For Our Time - Life Between Life Spiritual Regression Page 32

Articles – August 15th Display Ads & Directory of Resources To Reserve Space – September 1st For Ad Copy & Graphics – September 5th Calendar & Classified Ads –September 5th

by Amy Leshure Brehm

Departments Modern Shamanic Living ~ Sustaining Spiritual Patience

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by Evelyn C. Rysdyk

Wandering Sage Wisdom ~ Honouring The Journey

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by Aaron Hoopes

Awareness and the Art of Seeing ~ I Wore Through Another Pair Of Carharts

by Jen Deraspe

Reflections Of An Amateur Spiritual Spelunker ~ Fatty Livers, Furniture Moving and The Road Ahead

by Curtis White

Loving Earth ~ What Is Green Construction?

Page 16 Page 17 Page 18

by River J. Lee

The 21st Century Bohemian ~ Holding The Power Of Peace

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by Teresa Piccari

A Breath of Healing ~ Are We Ever There?

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by Donna Amrita Davidge

The Way of Life It-self ~ The End May Not Be Near, So There!

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by Norm Hirst.

Exploring the World Religions ~ Apocalypse - The End Of The

by James Bean

World Real And Imagined

Mixed Media ~ Book, Website, Music and Product Reviews

Directories

Directory of Resources Yoga, T'ai Chi, & Meditation Directory Heart Visions, Calendar of Events, Classifieds

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I nner

T apestry Publishers Joan Emmons Ron Damico Betty Close

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Pages 46-47

Pages 33-40 Page 41 Pages 42-45

Inner Tapestry can be found in over 500 locations, but to ensure you don’t miss an issue, subscriptions are available.

Payments and Correspondence To: P O Box 122, East Hampton, CT 06424 August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 3

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Mastering Creative Anxiety

Submission Dates October/November 2011

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I nner W orkings

by Joan Emmons

NEW THIS ISSUE: As I sit with the theme, pondering my thoughts, the words "New This Issue" seem a bit odd. What, if anything, is ever "new?" It may just be something that you, as a reader, don't know yet. Then is it not just something that you do not know? Is it just a "change?"

What does the word "new" mean? Adjective: Not existing before; made, introduced, or discovered recently or now for the first time; "a fascinating mix of the old and the new".

As I allow myself to be with the concept of "new" and now adding in "old" and how they both influence "what I (k)now and what I (k)new," I am drawn to bring in the word "now" as well. Our words are wonderful tools; they can bring us hope, they can express our deepest feelings, they can comfort us through the changes in our lives, they can also deconstruct what we believe, they can show us truth, they can allow us to access our truest form of humanity—are you with me... Words are very important tools in our lives.

Over the past 20 years (that would be old, because I (k)now it, so does it make the "now" old?) I have become aware, as most of you are, that everyone holds slightly different definitions of the same words. This is based on, as some might say, their filter(s) (which would be a person's perceptions based on their past experiences).

No wonder we are struggling to communicate with each other. We struggle with not being clear in our expression, but also in having someone else understand what we are saying, because "they" are "thinking" (filtering) and "feeling" our words through their filter—perceptions of the past (old).

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Our words are an expression of meaning, they are vibration, not only of their meaning but of our intonation of them. We send a vibration, a feeling out with every word we speak and write. We also receive a vibration from every word read.

Where are your words generated from? What is the tone of your words, what are the feelings generating your words? What are you bringing forth into the world?

This is the art of Self-mastery, being a "master" crafts a person in the sculpting of one's life. Once again, words are a deeply creative "tools." They influence everyone and everything they come in connection with. Be Care-filled in how you use your gift and tools. Are we there yet?... Isn't this the theme? Can we

use these tools with the maturity of our evolution. Remember, words are our tool, a gift we have gifted to ourselves. Who said that what you are sitting on is a chair? And that in every language it still is a chair. What an amazing concept that someone has that much influence. Use your gift well. Use it with your heart and soul engaged and watch how your struggle to and be understood diminishes.

Have fun with this issue there are a lot of really great articles!

We are very excited to welcome to our columnists River J. Lee. He will be contributing his talents to our Loving Earth column. He leads trips and teaches outdoor skills through his guide service, Maine Bound Guides, he also owns and operates Ridgetop Construction, a small company with a green focus, and he helps people grow and heal spiritually, through Mountain Spirit Journeys.

Welcome River, thank you for the expansion and the opportunity to share with you the ways in which we can become more loving to our mother earth.

More really awesome news of travel for two of our columnists. Jen Deraspe is traveling out west for a sabbatical but will continue to write of her experiences while she travels. Curtis White is moving to Scotland and will also continue Reflections of a Spiritual Spelunker as he delves into this new culture, he will become our first international columnist. We wish both Jen and Curtis the best life has to offer with their new explorations and I for one, can't wait to see the written expression of these new adventures.

There has been a slight delay in the radio show's airing and we are working to begin the first week in October, stay tuned for IT Radio!

We have made so many new friends along the way. This has been the opportunity of a lifetime, to bring you the talent and love that so many are willing to share. I continue to meet people who (k)now of Inner Tapestry as we continue to receive compliments and thanks for the gift of the "tool" of the written word and the sharing of love that is gifted through it. All of this has been received and has helped me to spread the feeling of gratitude to others, bringing it forward in whatever way is necessary to serve all.

Thanks for being here, everyone, as we continue our journey... whether you believe we have gotten "there," are still on the way to "there," or have never left, we are all blessed that you are "here" with us. Enjoy!

Welcome to Inner Tapestry

OUR EXPRESSION OF INTENTION: As we weave from within, we begin the creation

of the outward expression and celebration of our own unique tapestry. Our intention is to provide a pathway of support for all seeking the awareness of living a conscious life by creating and supporting a network of connection within the holistic community. In our tenth year as a Holistic Journal, we have become a leading voice for people in their discovery of holistic health, natural living and spiritual wisdom and insight. For more information on distribution and locations please email info@innertapestry.org or call 203-779-0345 or 207-799-7995.

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To our readers, we would like to ask everyone to take the opportunity to email our columnists, feature writers, artists and advertisers with comments, suggestions and information inquiries. They all are extremely wonderful and dedicated individuals who look forward to hearing from you. We also look forward to receiving your comments and suggestions as we all continue to evolve and grow together.

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Getting there Just takes one small leap of faith

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COME AND SEE OUR NEW LINE OF Organic Clothing And Recycled Leather Bags!

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Grief Hurts

by Roland Comtois

Roland Comtois shares words of comfort for grief-stricken souls.

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Colleen’s face is etched with the markings of grief. She recounts her beloved mother’s passing some days ago, but her voice becomes frozen in time with sorrow and pain. Nancy’s husband sits quietly in the back of the room. He stuffed in his coat pocket the remnants of love he shared with his wife; a picture, a ring and a sacred trinket. He is too numb to talk and seeks moments of freedom that are elusive to his soul’s desire. Little Bobby sits impatiently in the front row with his dad’s Red Sox shirt on. He whimpers with deep remorse because he wants to share a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with his dad once more. All of them are immersed in the physical and emotional suffering of grief.

Grief is as much physical, as it is emotional. It will cause your body to stop. You’ll be mid-way through a conversation when all your thoughts slip far from your reality.

Sometimes you’ll cry as you walk past the bakery you visited together. All of these experiences are normal reactions to an aching body, mind and soul as a result of losing a loved one. Headlines announced in spring 2011 on CNN and in USA Today reported the findings of a study about heartbreak and physical pain, stating that there is a very real connection between the two. The study confirmed that loss and grief of any kind hurts and that the emotional and physical pain that comes with losing a loved one can be crushing. Like all of those individuals that have suffered through loss, our bodies will communicate the grief as our emotions toil with pain.

Colleen said that despite the peacefulness of her mother’s passing, it was a significant blow to her life. Grief comes marching through with no care for what’s in its path. Many I have spoken with say they have lost a part of themselves somewhere, somehow. Grief causes you to forget, stops you from breathing, causes your voice not to talk and sometimes forgets to wake you up. It holds you hostage until you begin the process of healing, simply meaning finding balance one breath at a time.

Often when grief comes knocking at the door it never stays at the entrance. It seems to slither its way deep into the corners of your heart and wraps you in pain, but there are things to do to slowly reclaim your present moment. For example; stand as tall as you can even when your body resists. Remember that loss is a physical experience, as it is emotional. Your body will ache. Your spirit will ache. Be kind to yourself. Rest as much as you can. Remember your inner strength. It’s there and always has been there. Rely on yourself and your inner connection to guide you through your dark days. Call out for help, let someone in, and seek guidance if your

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sadness overwhelms you. If you need to scream out, scream out with a friend. Cry on someone’s shoulders. Let them know how sad you really are. You don’t have to battle this alone. Don’t hold it in. Cry and cry, and cry some more.

Nancy’s husband found comfort and loving support from friends and even from sacred channeled messages that showcased the eternal spark of love. Remember that there are many people who want to listen to you, hug you and support you, as you navigate the depth of your grief. By allowing this to happen you open the door to moments of peace, support and love, which is so richly needed at this time of your life. There are therapists, healers and support systems available to you as you walk through your despair.

What we all must try to do is remember the joy, remember the memories and always remember the love. For this will make your heart smile. Nancy’s husband said the greatest gift was that he had someone who loved him for who he was, and he finds great solace in holding on to that memory.

The Aquarian Gospel of Jesus Christ says “when grief comes trooping through, surround yourself in the ministry of love” and the bible says “love will endure.” Love is the only ingredient that will bridge together the process of grief to peace. It will only do this one moment at a time and one breath at a time, so give yourself time.

Like little Bobby who steps forward from his fear and reaches a place of peace, so can all of us who suffer from the loss of a loved one. When we remember the love that is shared and realize that love and life, death and dying don’t separate us from each other, then we can begin to find the inner light again. In the midst of grief, there is one thing that binds us, and that is the memories that hold them, all of us, together.

Roland Comtois is an inspirational speaker and healer who has documented his experiences and the real-life stories of his clients in a 2009 memoir entitled And Then There Was Heaven: A Journey of Hope and Love. Now in its second printing, the book has received wide acclaim from his readers. Roland continues to share his stories, messages and healing revelations at presentations throughout the East Coast and is scheduled to host his 5th Annual After Loss Expo on September 10, 2011 at the Stamford Sheraton Hotel in Stamford, Connecticut, from 10:00am-5:00pm. Roland will be joined by several noted healing practitioners and grief specialists who will share their work and expertise with attendees. The event is free and will include keynote channeling events by Roland. In commemoration of the 10th anniversary of 9/11, Roland will also be hosting a candlelight remembrance and vigil at 7:30pm on September 10, 2011 at the Stamford Sheraton hotel. Visit www.blessingsbyroland.com for details.

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Inspire(d)

by Holly Howley

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ach morning I write in a little coffee shop in the town where I live. It is my hour, sometimes two, away from the details of life. Time to get lost in my latest project. To scribble ideas on notebooks. To sit in a chair, drink truly great coffee, and write.

I am one of many regulars. There is this man, a local farmer, who arrives before me. He is kind enough to not take “my spot” (second window by the door) unless of course there are others who’ve gotten there first. When that’s the case, he throws his hands up and shrugs, with an apologetic smile as I enter.

There’s a fellow member of my weekly writer’s group, who every morning, reads the New York Times. He knows just about everyone. People bend his ear, and he theirs in a steady stream of greetings, an intricate early morning dance.

I sit amongst all the activity mostly in silence.

Computer in front, notebook to the left, coffee to the right. Sometimes I stare out the window. Mostly I stare into the words. Morning after morning, words flow for as long as the day’s schedule allows.

Most mornings I am awake before my 5:50 AM alarm sounds. The whole of me is eager to get to my spot in the coffee shop. Motivation to write comes easily.

But inspiration, belief... courage, well that’s harder.

Courage requires moments of fearlessness. A commitment to persevere, to show up, with self-doubt and obstacles in tow. A willingness to believe that my unique stirrings are worthy and essential.

I’ve learned to seek out settings where inspiration, inspired people, abound.

Finding courage in others provides encouragement for me.

There are many people in my life who inspire me. I asked three of these people, three questions: When did you claim your passion?

Where does your courage come from?

What inspires you?

Karen McRee – The owner of SoG Coffee Roasters who day after day, cup after cup, gives her patrons (all of whom she knows by name) a taste of her own personal excellence.

When did you claim your passion?

Two years ago. I’ve worked in coffee shops and restaurants for a long time but I kind of fell into roasting. Once I started, I loved it. I’ve always gravitated to things that require hands-on creativity. It was my husband who finally said, “Let’s go for it” when the space we’re in became available. I had a vision of what I wanted everything to look like. When it all came together it was surreal.

Where does your courage come from?

My family. Growing up my Dad owned his own business. His work ethic was inspiring. He built a business from nothing and it grew. Watching him helped me to realize I had it in me—to make it happen.

What inspires you?

My kids and my husband. My customers. I love being in the space, the day to day of getting to know the customers.

Jenn Hardy – The best friend who, after surviving breast cancer, decided it was finally time to start the fitness business (Fit 4 Good) she’d always dreamed about.

Passion: It was in 1998, after I ran my first marathon. As soon as I crossed the finish line, I thought “I would do that again in a minute.” Before training for a marathon, I didn’t think I could do it. But when I finished, I knew fitness was my passion.

Courage: My husband and kids. They are my net. They are there at the end of the day, no matter what. Whether my business succeeds or fails, I have them and their support.

I wanted my kids to see me doing this, for them to know it’s always better to give something you love a try.

What inspires: When a client is inspired. I love when a client describes how they feel after working out. One recently said, “I never thought I could workout this hard!”

Another described feeling confident in their clothing. I love that. I love testing the limits of what I can do for other people.

Finding courage in others provides encouragement for me.

Dave Magee – A new friend: a painter, sculptor, writer who does not qualify who he is by describing what he does. He just does it. All the while on the lookout for a new friend, collaborator, storyteller. His corner of the world is a bright, friendly place.

Passion:

I picked up a brush one day, when I was 27 years old. I painted my cat and there it was. I knew my life had changed. I was a watercolorist. I was supposed to go into the medical field or the corporate world but when I found painting, I knew I had happened on something unquantifiable. Something other than an intellectual construct, to dedicate my life to.

Courage: Standing by your work takes courage. Courage first came when I picked up the brush. The feeling was euphoric, effortless. I claimed it. Nothing compared. It’s a gamble to find out what is going to happen in the brain, that’s creativity. It takes courage to find out.

What inspires: Everything. Other people’s courage. An uncompromising acceptance of who I am.

Sincerity. People appreciate sincerity; it allows them to grow in your presence.

Pay close attention to the people in your life who’ve found the courage to pursue their passion. Watch their rhythm. Feel their excitement. Soak up their energy. It helps to see the joy of commitment in other people as you make a passion your own.

It’s easy to find people who poke holes. People who can’t quite get out of their own way and are in yours. But there are just as many people, maybe more, who are inspired, who inspire. Seek them out and celebrate their achievements.

And then return the favor.

Do What You Love. For yourself, for others.

When did you claim your passion? Where does your courage come from?

What inspires you?

(E-mail and let me know!)

Holly Howley is a writer who lives in Glastonbury with her husband and sons. She can be reached at hollyhowley@cox.net. Thanks to Karen McRee, SoG Coffee Roasters, 882 Main Street, South Glastonbury, (860) 633-8500, Jenn Hardy, Fit 4 Good, (860) 614-1352, and Dave Magee, South Glastonbury.

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And then there are the ins and outs. The almost every morningers who zoom in, zag out, on their way. There is comfort in routine, theirs and mine.

The idea had previously frightened her, but after tackling cancer, it didn’t seem so scary. Now she helps other people and herself achieve health through fitness.

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mod er n s ham an i c l i v i n g

Sustaining spiritual patience

by Evelyn C. Rysdyk

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ometimes it feels as though the transformations you want to experience are arriving too slowly! When you stumble in your evolution, lose your passion for the process or just have times of feeling “stuck,” it is useful to receive support so that you don’t become impatient or lose faith in your inner wisdom. I find that a good focus to keep yourself on track is to begin thinking of your life as a “playground of transformation” and to experiment with the following ideas!

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Cultivating compassionate curiosity To better move through the times when you don’t feel as connected, it is important to cultivate a willingness to stretch into places that feel “beyond your comfort zone” and lovingly “investigate” yourself! I am referring to developing an ability to observe yourself, your thoughts and your actions. Each of us has many aspects of Self—an inner wise person, the inner child/children, an inner critic, and so forth. You also have a part that can observe you with compassion.

This part of yourself is, can be, an essential ally when something disturbs Often we run up against some the rhythm of your practice. kind of inner interference...

Often we run up against some kind of inner interference that temporarily throws us off course. When we wear the eyes of the compassionate “inner detective,” we can recognize that these disruptions are actually calling our attention to some perception, thought or feeling that needs to be shifted so that we can move forward again. Since you are creating your world through your perceptions and their resultant thoughts/actions—being willing to become more conscious through self observation is a key to changing not only yourself but through you, the outer world as well.

Eliminating Inner Interference: Many of the inner stumbling blocks we encounter in our lives are unconscious perceptions, outmoded beliefs and habits. In order to understand them, it is useful to begin to look at what energies motivate our behaviors. Fundamentally, all human behavior is either based in love or fear.

The motivation of love produces: gratitude, compassion, appreciation, caring, wonder, mercy, sympathy, harmony, admiration, thankfulness, empathy, benevolence, exhalation, patience, tenderness, courage and thoughtful regard, as well as actual love.

Fear on the other hand expresses itself as: anxiety, anger, jealousy, envy, doubt, judgment, blame, shame, depression/shut down, bitterness, holding yourself back, feelings of being a “victim” or “inferior,” power abuse, impatience, emptiness, cowardice, suspicion and actual fear.

In the larger culture, people use many methods to avoid feeling their fears and so are not able to identify or clear them away. These unbeneficial coping mechanisms include such things as: procrastination, distraction by keeping “busy” or staying involved in other people’s “trauma-dramas,” blaming the situation or other people, using substances such as alcohol, narcotics or food and/or behaviors such as sex, excessive watching of TV, playing computer games or hoarding to stuff feelings or shut feelings down. People also try intimidating others in an effort to feel more “powerful,” hold onto emotional pain because it provides a kind of “excuse” for not moving forward or even identify others as “enemies” who then become the focus for what are actually a person's (or culture’s) inner, unconscious fears.

Since your unconscious mind can be such a strong motivation for your actions and thoughts, it is useful to begin observing yourself so that you can get a clearer sense of what is happening below the surface of your mind.

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This means being willing to engage your compassionate "inner detective" to observe how you are in the different aspects of your life. This is important as many of us behave very differently in different situations. Take the time to notice how you are at work and at home. Notice how you behave in relationships. Begin observing how you think, what language you use about yourself and others and observe the times that you are judgmental. Also look at how you deal with disappointment and notice what is happening inside when you forget to be engaged in your spiritual practice. Pay attention to what you learn and see how you can begin to become more conscious about your thoughts and actions. As you pay attention, you may begin to notice that many of your difficult moments involve strong feelings. Conscious and unconscious perceptions held in your mind blend with the input of your emotional body and exit you as feelings. Sometimes, the feelings you express have little or no connection to what is actually happening in the present moment! Indeed, often they are connected to past events and the perceptions you developed then.

Many of our interference patterns are actually connected to our anxiety or fears.

Often, these fears are actually unconscious so that they are difficult to recognize.

With the assistance of your compassionate and curious “inner detective,” you can look at the ways your fears reveal themselves.

Our fears/anxieties are usually expressed in some form of the fight/flight/freeze response. While it is easy to recognize a literal “fight” or “freeze,” we may not readily notice these responses when they are wrapped in our behaviors. For example, if you become controlling, blaming, argumentative or bossy in certain situations, it is a form of the “fight” reaction. On the other hand, if you become vague, withdrawn, confused or emotionally immobile you can think about it as a “freeze” reaction. If, in response to a situation you easily lose patience, give up or repeatedly don’t have “enough time” to do something then you may be expressing a form of “flight.” Notice these reactions with deep compassion as they are very human! Catching these behaviors is the first step of disabling the fear that is behind them. The prize is to relinquish the grip your unconscious fears have on your life!

As you compassionately observe yourself, make notes about when feelings come up and under what circumstances. Developing a picture of your reactions will support you to want to dig a little deeper. An excellent method is to journey to a teacher or power animal to ask questions such as “What fear is underneath this behavior?” A deep meditation on this question may serve you in a similar way. As you bring the fears into the light of consciousness, you begin to disempower them and loosen their grip on you. Once on the surface, fears can be healed far more easily than ones that are hidden in the depths of the unconscious mind.

As your fear becomes clearer, see if it has a message for you. By finding out more about the fear, you can begin shifting out of your old, dysfunctional behavior and learn new ways of being that are healthy and can contribute to moving you forward.

Using gratitude to make you more resilient Making changes in your life can be stressful but gratitude has a healing effect on the body. Research by the Institute of HeartMath has found that people who practice gratitude regularly are able to sustain their positive biochemistry and regulate their moods even when stressed! In other words, the continued practice of gratitude allowed individuals to have a physical and emotional resilience that was not accessible to those who didn’t practice gratitude.

Feeling gratitude helps you to nurture the seeds of your new dream of yourself. The time in which we are living offers us an opportunity to shed the old, outmoded ways of being human. As each of us changes, we in turn, help to rocket human evolution forward and so transform everything and when you commit to being grateful in spite of personal struggles, fears, illness or other “disruptions,” it becomes much easier to be peaceful and loving even in difficult times.

Expanding possibilities—Shamanic Imagination.

The shamanic journey process is one very ancient method, which can expand you beyond your ordinary way of perceiving the world and help you to move beyond your mind’s limitations. While you are in the journey state, you are able to feel experiences and new possibilities before they are physically realized. This in turn, supports you to stretch into new places of consciousness and helps you to shift out of old beliefs that limit you. Expanding your perceptions of what is possible, actually helps you to realize new ways of being. This can support you to grow!

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In addition, the unconditional love and guidance that the transcendent spirits offer can buoy you up and give you courage to keep going forward.

Their expressions of compassion can also support you to have more compassion for yourself.

the unconditional Love and Guidance that the transcendent spirits offer can buoy you up and give you courage...

Getting support from the human world We human beings are social primates. There is a reason that solitary confinement is considered a harsh punishment. In the psychological theory referred to as, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, after the need for physiological support—such as food, water and shelter—and the needs for safety, the third layer of human needs are social and involve feelings of belonging. Without the close connections of family, friends, and larger social groupings, humans become much more susceptible to loneliness, social anxiety, and clinical depression.

Especially during those times when you are engaged in making changes in your life, it is important to become an active participant in supportive communities. This may mean that you need to be willing to stretch into places that feel uncomfortable by meeting new people, going to gatherings and taking classes. Supportive, social

relationships can help you to integrate all that you are learning and experiencing as your new life continues to unfold.

On the other hand, you may also find that you may have to let go of older relationships that do not support your growth. This is usually something that occurs organically. In the course of our changing and evolving, some of our relationships naturally “grow apart.” While it can often be emotionally difficult to experience this kind of shift in a relationship, it is also true that as one person leaves you, you become open for others to enter into your life.

If at any point you need even more support than your “friends and family network” can provide, give yourself full permission to seek out a professional person, such as a therapist or counselor, who is especially skilled at assisting people on their life paths.

A good counselor is worth their weight in gold in helping to sort out feelings or untangle patterns when they feel too overwhelming to deal with on your own!

Being compassionately persistent There is no substitute for being willing to pick yourself up when you falter or stumble on your path. Indeed, our journeys through life are seldom straight. They are usually a long series of starts, stops, twists, turns and restarts. When you falter, stall or get lost along the way, remember to repeat all the steps I’ve outlined here. So long as you give yourself permission to look at all of your life as exuberant explorations on the “playground of transformation” you can keep making progress with no limits upon how far you can go. © 2011 Evelyn C. Rysdyk Nationally recognized shaman teacher/healer, speaker, and author of Modern Shamanic Living: New Explorations of an Ancient Path, Evelyn C. Rysdyk delights in supporting people to remember their sacred place in All That Is. Whether through face-to-face contact with individual patients, workshop groups and conference participants, or through the printed word—Evelyn uses her loving humor and passion to open people’s hearts and inspire them to live more joyful, fulfilling and purposeful lives. In joint practice with Allie Knowlton as Spirit Passages, her web site is www.spiritpassages.com.

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Let us support your beingness in growing!

We Hope You Enjoy reading this issue of Inner Tapestry!

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ON THE COVER

Into The Light Melissa Harris

Artists are healers and artists are, in turn, healed by the act of making their art in whatever form that takes.

As healers, we take what’s out there in our crazy world, and form it into a statement. The statements are often unpleasant. We are commentators for the world around us. I suppose it’s a piece of our karmic task. Haven’t we learned tremendous amounts by the art that creatives have left behind in each society?

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My own artistic statements tend to be more of a personal rather than political nature. If I didn’t cough them up and out onto the canvas I would become sick. That’s just the way of it. I can only go so long before I am so filled up with emotion that I need to spit it out. I witness this in my students as well. The sense of relief in the air is tangible after they have spent a day painting. At the end of a painting session, provided I have been able to stay at my craft for as long as I need, I am sated, complete, satisfied. Then I go for the next period of time and need another release. When I walk into the studio and get a whiff of the fumes I am elated, relieved, I am home, at least for the next few hours.

I’m able to close off the left side of the brain so that I can relax into the right brain, the receptive, so that I can receive what needs to be captured in paint.

BEING PSYCHIC Feeling my way as a psychic has been directly linked to my painting, not only in the illustrations of what I see when I am connecting to Spirit, but in the fact that I feel myself in the same trance or semi trance states in both activities.

Connecting with the core of my being, higher self, Spirit Guides, Source itself makes me more peaceful and I am able to access whatever it is I may need to visit in order to bring forth my creations. For example, if I want to evoke a particular mood in a piece I need to be able to clear my mind, (and meditation is most helpful for this), and transport myself to that particular scenario or one of a similar nature.

My connection to Source, coupled with my years of study in traditional artistic techniques, help me to be able to transmit the power of emotion that is important to me in my paintings.

Painting is my medicine. I had not thought of it in those specific terms until I was on Vision Quest in the woods of New Hampshire under the supervision of Mary Thunder. She is a native American peace elder I studied with for some years. In my twenties, thirties and forties I tended to work out in very literal pictorials events and relationships occurring in my life. I painted out my pain and my yearnings with no intention of showing them to anyone, I simply needed the release. The statements are not always pleasant.

The sensual familiar feel of buttery paint to surface delights me. It’s what I know. I’ve been making that gesture since I was 11 years old. A new tube of paint, a blank canvas, primed and sanded down, ready to go, these things can make my mouth water as much as a good bar of dark chocolate. Add to that a new paintbrush that I have not yet mutilated by years of scrubbing excitedly over a dense surface and I’m in paradise.

The colors, my goddess the colors alone – how could they not make anyone happy? I am greedy for color. I have the freedom, the right to select any color I choose and place it where I like— choose. I observe when I cannot get enough of a certain color and apply it as liberally as I like. I have gone through decades of using one color predominantly and for no reason that I can understand I am suddenly wanting to move into a different color. In my early years my colors were darker and more subdued. In recent years I have selected increasingly lighter as well as more intense color. My subject matter has also continued to change.

SPIRIT ESSENCE PORTRAITS

If I didn't cough them up and onto the canvas I would become sick.

INSPIRATION I am always interested in the essence of any particular person, situation, landscape or even conversation. A “bottom line” person you might say. And of course the animal kingdom. I did a life size [person-sized] series of butterflies! I also enjoy painting “on site and have done is in many sacred places throughout Mexico, Bali, and Cornwall, England. In fact, that is how I really come to know a person or place—by experiencing it through my painting.

A connection to Mother Earth fuels my being & inspires imagery. My relationship to others also teaches me to keep my heart open to all I come in contact with. These connections and relationships are a catalyst for much of my artwork.

For the 15 years that I was doing portraits, it was inevitable that anyone important in my life became a painting! My interest changes more frequently as of the past 5 years, and has included portraits, landscapes, a sensual “intimacy” series, and more fantasy-oriented images out of my head, revolving around the above mentioned themes.

10 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

I wanted to combine my work as a psychic with my painting in a very direct way. I love to travel and decided to offer to some of my special new age store accounts that purchased my Creatrix items, sessions where I would tune in psychically to someone and then create a narrative watercolor of what I see when I tune in, either with my clairvoyance or by my other ways of sensing. I also receive by hearing and knowing.

I love these sessions because I enjoy not only the travel, since when I am home I am in the studio alone all day, but also the intimate one on one time with new people. I love helping and I am fascinated by what are common themes for folks (mostly women come for these).

I am touched by the fact that what most people want to discover is how they can help others and make a difference in our world. The question I am most often confronted with is “What am I here to do?”

It seems that most of us have an urge to create and/or to leave a piece of ourselves behind, to make our mark. I love participating in the process of others doing so, either by helping with their creative process in teaching my art-making workshops or by sharing what I see in my readings. I have hope for the future because it feels to me as if people are waking up in exponentially growing numbers. Certainly in my own journey I continue to open to growth and change.

As for me, that’s all there is.

Melissa will be at Leapin' Lizards in Freeport, ME, September 26th and 27th 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM both days creating Spirit Essence Portraits and on September 26th from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM facilitating "Painting Outside The Lines."

Melissa Harris, artist and psychic and the owner of Creatrix, a publishing company features her art on cards, prints and other items. Her images have been used on calendars, book covers, magazines, CD covers and elsewhere and her original paintings appear in collections world-wide.

She travels throughout, doing her Spirit Essence Portraits combining her painting with a reading for the client, as well as remotely,and teaching her “Painting Outside the Lines” art-making workshops, a unique combination of spirituality and technique. She lives on 9 acres in the Catskill mountains with her dream studio, gardens and 4 cats. For more on Melissa, including what inspires her visit www.melissaharris.com

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w a nd eri n g sage w i s d om Honoring the Journey Aya Itagaki

by Aaron Hoopes

It is good to have an end to journey towards, but it is the journey that matters in the end.

...Ursula LeGuinn It can be a healthy exercise to ask the question; Are we there yet? For it shows that we are aware of the journey and focused on bettering ourselves. However, the answer should always be a resounding… No. For if we become preoccupied with the destination, we lose sight of the purpose of the journey in the first place. If we honor the journey, then we are able to keep on the path and move forward.

In the broadest sense, life itself is the journey. Learning the hard lessons of life and improving ourselves is a never-ending process.

Often the lessons we are given appear as mistakes, misunderstandings or failures, but in truth the only mistake, misunderstanding or failure is not learning the lesson itself.

If we don’t learn it the first time, it is very likely that the lesson will be repeated over and over until we actually do learn it. We only realize that we have finally learned a lesson when our behavior and actions begin to change. Changing our actions and behavior takes place when we convert the knowledge we gain from the lessons into wisdom that we can apply to new situations. For some, this process of conversion from knowledge to wisdom lasts a lifetime. For others, the wisdom gained moves them along the path more quickly until they reach a point where they need to go deeper within themselves in Your journey is unique.

It is better to ask Are we there yet? at order to make further progress.

Embrace it and travel onwards. the beginning of that deeper journey.

It is better to ask Are we there yet? at the beginning of that deeper journey. The Please visit my blog to share any comments you may have. deeper journey takes place within the self once we have reached a point where the More Wandering Sage Wisdom at: http://wanderingsagewisdom.blogspot.com. wisdom we have gained from the lessons tells us there is more work to be done. It Aaron Hoopes has spent 28 years studying and teaching martial arts, tai chi, yoga and is a journey in which we become a seeker of a deeper wisdom that lies at the core meditation. He is the founder of Zen Yoga and the author of five books. He teaches an of our being. The journey inward can be a perilous and frightening trek. In this Online Personal Development Course for Spiritual Deepening and holds retreats at the journey we must peel away all of the masks and illusions our ego has created and Ledge End Retreat and Healing Center in the mountains of Vermont. His best-selling look into our soul. We must start to realize that all of our actions and behaviors Zen Yoga Daily Warm-Up DVD is a simple method for integrating breath and have consequences that may not be apparent at first glance. Many people are very movement into daily life. Please feel free to contact Aaron: breathe@artofzenyoga.com. good at fooling themselves and pretending what they do doesn’t have any real Visit the Zen Yoga Website: www.artofzenyoga.com negative impact on their lives or the lives of others. Once we start that journey inwards we can no longer accept that illusion.

Most of us know that eating fast food, smoking cigarettes, and watching television are activities that can be detrimental to our body and mind, while strip mining, pesticides, and pollution are detrimental to the environment, but many people engage in these behaviors and fool themselves into thinking they are not actually causing any harm. They convince themselves their behavior is not bad enough to actually cause a problem or that they are personally strong enough to resist any negative vibrations that might result. It becomes too difficult to really look at their behavior and admit the truth of what they are doing to themselves or the planet we live on. The reason it is difficult is because if they were to admit that truth to themselves, it would become impossible not to take action to change the behavior… and too often the behavior is easier, economical or pleasant than the alternatives. Instead they choose to pretend to be ignorant so that they can continue their behavior and perpetuate the illusion. However, admitting the truth to ourselves is, in fact, the only way forward on this journey.

Until we are able to turn our attention inwards and own what is ours, we are merely fooling ourselves. Yes, we may be fooling everyone else as well, but that doesn’t really matter. It is our self that we must live with. And the only way to do that is to wake up.

August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 11

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It is time to wake up to ourselves. When we wake up to the present moment and our place in the world, we are truly on that journey inwards.

Waking up comes at different times for different people. Often it comes at a time when the path forward, continuing the same behavior, is no longer possible. People who have heart attacks from poor diet and exercise choices are a good example of this. They have reached a point where they must either change their behavior or their progress forward stops… dead. In this type of situation the journey becomes much more difficult because their body has abandoned them. And life only lasts as long as the body continues to function.

Waking up before there is no other choice is a much more agreeable option. If you are reading this it is likely that you have already made that choice. Recognizing that we have a choice and choosing to wake up takes place for many people when they have spent enough time in practices that develop mindful awareness of the present moment.

In those practices we are able to find ourselves. The most effective practices for cultivating mindful awareness is meditation and deep, conscious breathing.

Meditation calms the flurry of thoughts in the mind and settles all of the hectic noise that seems to pervade every moment of our day. It gives us an opportunity to cultivate clarity of thought. Regular practice teaches us to create space between the thoughts for mindful awareness to blossom. The simplicity of sitting in meditation belies the profound benefits of the practice. It provides a solid base to begin the process of waking up to the present moment.

Breathing is a fundamental action of our physical body, something we are doing all day, everyday, throughout our lives. For the most part, breathing is unconscious and shallow. The more we are able to become aware of our breathing, the deeper it becomes. With deeper breathing we are able to center ourselves. Conscious breathing is a practice done with both the body and the mind. The body executes the action while the mind brings quality and depth to the breath.

This connection between the body and mind is essential to the journey inwards.

As our journey continues, we can begin to explore other practices that assist in deepening our experience. Meditation, tai chi, yoga, mindful eating, ceremony, ritual and communing with nature are all methods moving further along the path.

No matter what your practice, no matter where you find yourself along the path, take a moment to honor your journey.

It may be a struggle at times and there may be demons you have to face, but the courage to face them grows stronger the more you use practice.

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ArcSounds

Awaken... REALign Consciously with Sound

Harmonic Sound Immersion Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

an evening of sound healing with alchemy crystal bowls, gongs and vibrational instruments.

Join us Fridays at 7:00 PM $20 August 26th, September 16th & October 14th Goff House, 2 Barton Hill Rd., East Hampton, CT Reservations necessary call 203 779-0345 Join us at 7:00 PM $20 August 12th, September 30th & October 29th Unity Church, 919 Ellington Rd., South Windsor, CT Reservations necessary call 860 289-8963

Wear comfortable clothing.

Bring plenty of water, eye covering, a pillow, blanket and something soft to lie on.

Please no scents ~ perfume or cologne.

12 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

Channeled Messages for the Soul with

Roland Comtois Roland Comtois, a Rhode Island native is widely known locally and abroad as a Spiritual and Intuitive Consultant, who channels the world beyond.

Every message is channeled from the Divine Energy in honor of your spirit and your life.

Saturday ~ October 15th 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Banner Total Fitness 1 Banner Rd., Moodus, CT 06469 Tickets are : $70.00 For more information and to reserve your seat: email joan@ronandjoan.com A Simple Truth at 203-779-0345

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A Simple Truth September 17th and 18th 9:00am-5:00pm both days

Cranial Sacral Philosophy and Practice Part I

Did you know you have at least 5 extremities and not just four?

Explore this fascinating manual therapy practice and expand your internal knowing on how structure, energy, emotions and “old patterning� can influence function, symptoms and illness.

This is the first of three parts. The class is intended for healthcare practitioners, those aspiring to be and those open to experiencing more about themselves and wellness.

For further information and/or registration, contact: Joe Belanger, PT at 860-372-8236.

The investment for this weekend is $275.

Middlesex Hospital Cancer Center Wellness Room 536 Saybrook Rd. #280, Middletown, CT

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14

Change Part 4

by Maria Harrison

S

o, here we are, at the height of summer. It seems as if just yesterday we celebrated summer solstice. Have you had any new transformational experiences that have changed your lives in even bigger ways? What new events or people came into your lives? What have you been forced to change, what did you choose to change? It sure seems that the changes around us continue to accelerate.

So, as promised, the last part of this series wraps up the “Process of Change” with a closer examination of ‘Micro/Macro Change’, ‘Absorbing Change’, and the three different phases of the Change Process.

Micro/Macro Change

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Micro change affects you, your spouse, family or close friends and associates. Micro change is when “I” must change; organizational change is when “we must change;” macro change is when “everyone” must change. Micro change takes first priority because only when change affects us personally do we take notice. The interesting thing about the way people relate to change is that people relate to what affects people and things closest to them. Even though people witness macro changes such as wars, weather disasters, major plane crashes, technological breakthroughs, the single biggest change for most people would be the “micro” change, i.e., their child doing well in school, a newborn baby, a spouse getting sick, a death…, etc.

Absorbing Change

What is a person’s (or group’s) capacity to assimilate change? It is a major shift in expectations (whether positive or negative) that so affect our human assimilation process. By this I mean “the ability to absorb change without dysfunctional behavior.” Absorbing change always requires resources to make the shift. Some of those "costs" of assimilation are reduced energy, increased stress, diminished physical stamina and health. Every human being has a different capacity for absorbing change and we find that no one has an infinite capacity to absorb change. How do we then understand and manage this capacity? Whether change is accepted or rejected, whether we initiate it or have it thrust upon us by others, the assimilation process reacts to both the change itself and the short-term and long-term implications. It has been my experience in my coaching practice that hidden implications create most of the assimilation problems. In nearly every situation where there is resistance to some type of change, there is a hidden, negative personal implication for those affected by the change. In order to better understand this, it is helpful to shift the observation of any resistance to change in each situation. Firstly, begin to observe that change actually occurs for people when they view their challenges to be greater than their capabilities or viceversa. And, the capacity to absorb change is directly related to how much assimilation an individual (or a group, an organization) has already expended on change or how many changes they’ve had to deal with recently in their lives.

realize that change is a fluid phenomenon like a dance, ice melting and refreezing, and goals/objectives constantly moving.

With our 24/7 media and in the age of sound bites and fast food mentalities, people begin to view change as having an on/off button. This all-too-common view has people believe that we, too, are like switches with an on/off button. TV, cable, internet, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube videos have added to the illusion that events happen in an instant of time rather than a segment of an unfolding history.

Is it understandable then, why some individuals and organizations develop a “ready-aim-fire” mentality to the implementation of change(s) and expect everyone to transcend in the moment?

Let’s take a closer look at the stages of change. I see them as three phases: 1) Present Stage – represents status quo. An established balance that continues indefinitely until a force disrupts it.

2) Transition Stage – dis-engaging from status quo. During this phase people are learning new attitudes, behavior, knowledge and information.

3) Desired Stage – state of creating a new status quo. Creating a new established balance through learning and experiencing the transition.

When the status quo is no longer worth the price it takes to maintain, it necessitates a new operating framework. For some, this spells opportunity. Eager to reduce the stress and uncertainty of the transitional phase, people seek out information that will create a new stable state. Learning is the biggest opportunity that comes from Change.

Throughout this series on “Creating A New Understanding for Change,” it has been my intention to have you, my readers, see and understand each phase of change as a process and what happens in each phase to propel change. Becoming a different observer in these phases can dramatically shift your interpretation of “what is going on in your life/environment” and how to anticipate specific reactions to the changes that occur in each phase.

This understanding can make the difference between successfully going through the change process. Dealing with our various human emotional boundaries during the three phases in the process is an on-going learning experience. As we are being requested and required to shift from one stage to another, we experience various emotional states that sometimes cause stress, anxiety, suffering, confusion, disorientation and lack of confidence. These emotional states need to be recognized (We need to become aware), handled with care (Be gentle with yourself), and guided through these transitional processes. When emotional boundaries are not taken care of through adequate communication, on-purpose produced understanding of events, problems and solutions, we and other people around us become angry, resentful or fall into apathy and resignation.

So what can we do for ourselves, or what can be done in organizations or in the work place?

It is with reverence that I invite you, my readers, to become students in an on-going study of “what it is to be Human.” Understanding how emotional boundaries affect the change process and the ability/capacity to absorb change can greatly enhance the acceptance and implementation of change. Becoming an educated observer of when the equilibrium of the present state has been disrupted and the desired state is not yet attained, the actual process of change begins to occur. The transition stage is the most difficult for people to navigate (no matter where they are, what language they speak, and what they are dealing with). During this stage, situations and people are neither what they were, nor are they yet what they will become. Because of the chaotic and disruptive nature of this state, people will often try to regain their “balance” by reverting back to the old familiar way things were. So much is never completed or accepted because we just cannot tolerate the lack of coherence and lack of control that is indicative to the “transition state”.

When the status quo is no longer

worth the price

it takes to maintain,

it necessitates a new

operating framework.

Change as a Process

The shift that needs to be created in our society and culture is the common perception of life in binary terms, yes and no, black and white, or good and bad, to a more extended evolving perception of life as an on-going, continually changing process. When people perceive life in binary terms they adapt more slowly than the paces of changes occurring around them because they have a low tolerance for ambiguity. In their perception everything must be clearly and completely understood before action is taken. They do not yet understand that there is also a learning and understanding that occurs in the process of the action. This learning is more fluid and occurs in the moment. Organizations that see life in binary terms do not see the constant introduction of change through technology or merger acquisitions as an ongoing endeavor that needs constant attention. Human beings who seem to have the least problems with change see life as an on-going, continuously evolving process of learning. These people tend to avoid the more limited binary view of change. They 14 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

15 So often, the choice is made to stay in familiar situations that have been working rather than face the ambiguity of the unknown. For many people the unknown is so frightening that they choose to remain with what or where they are... long after it is clear that it doesn’t work anymore or it is dangerous and even destructive to do so.

So, our journey ends and begins here. I invite you to be flexible now with all the changes that have already occurred this year, with many more bound to come at us each day, week, and months (perhaps years) to come. Keep an open mind and heart, be present and alert. There’s much to learn about yourself and life now in order to shift during these tides of change. And no matter what has been going on in your life, enjoy the summer! It’s the season to be playful, have fun, indulge yourself and enjoy life.

Thank you, dear readers, for accompanying me on this journey. Please feel free to find more writings and my services on my website (www.

TapestryOfLifeCoaching.com). Please call or email me for more information.

Maria Harrison is a professional certified life coach. She is certified as a Core Energy Life and Ontological (The Power of Language) Coach by The Newfield Network and ICF, is a Reiki Master, certified EFT and Prosperity Guide. Maria offers transformational principles and tools as a foundation of her practice. Maria can be reached through her website: www.tapestryoflifecoaching.com, by calling: 207 358-0311 or email: maria@tapestryoflifecoaching.com.

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“Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.” ...Maria Robinson

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16

Awareness and the Art of Seeing: Contemplations on the environment and interconnection

by Jen Deraspe

I Wore Through Another Pair of Carharts A sabbatical: a break or change from a normal routine. According to Merriam Webster, it is to happen every 7 years. (Oops, I am 7 years late). A sabbatical intends for rest, travel or research.

I drop the “or” and make it “and,” rest, travel and research. Yes. Come fall, I will wander west for a spell, and spend time and share experience with some amazing yoga teachers and Byron Katie, if they will have me. My cuppeth will filleth with all things good.

Perspective is defined as the capacity to view things in their true relations or relative importance - and to view your own task in a larger framework. I like that. I imagine my perspective will expand, clarity may follow and new inspirations will be born with what to do with this life and this place. Or better yet, what will be done with this life and this place, as guided, as intended in the greater plan than the one I can muster from here.

Since moving to this mountain to build a home and a dream on a prayer, I have directly participated in the building of 9 structures in as many years; structures to hold people, solar panels, poo, and fire.

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It all starts the same; a vision on scratch paper or on a piece of 1 x 6 kiln dried local lumber too short to build something out of. What follows is clearing the land, lining up the support, hired or otherwise, gathering the materials and in weeks or months it is done. Sort of. Easy to say in a sentence.

Lately we have been renovating the very first building, informally referred to as “the barn” and formally named, Mount Pleasant Meeting House. It serves as the main space here for gathering and eating while on retreat and also as the yoga studio. Volunteers raised it over the course of 10 weekends back in 2003. As I lay a new floor and interior sheathing down, as I sand the grain and set each nail, I am touching all the parts, the corners and angles once held by so many in what feels like a life time ago. People came here and put themselves into a project in the name of love, service and community. I am moved, yet again, by the kindness shown here.

At the cusp of completion of what began as an idea, I am filled with resolve. I have fulfilled this idea with all that I have in me… and then some. I am acutely aware of an internal pull to step back now, widen my vision, like a fox walking keenly through the wild forest, aware of all that surrounds and fills its path.

The buildings are built and its stands on its own as a retreat for those looking for more peace. I will put away the Carharts for a while and build more than external structures. It is time for me to build deeper into the internal components of me.

Who am I without this place, this particular role in the world? Who am I without the endless list of what is next? Who or what will sit on the park bench watching the sky, the clouds, the surf, the birds, and the wind through the leaves in the trees? It is time to find out.

Friends will care-take and run the place, host retreaters, lead workshops, teach the yoga classes, and run the sauna, until my soon enough - return. And I will remain available, now and throughout my travels, to share the love of my life, The Work of Byron Katie.

Its effect is often greater ease; gentleness and kindness that feeds this soul and anyone open to its transformative powers. I will meet any of you interested back here at NTN for an holistic coaching immersion into you, come to you in your own home or meet you by phone or webcam, heart to heart.

I see this sabbatical filled with Inquiry, writing, sitting, playing and conscious movement—both internal and external. I will look for you (and for me) on the path home. I look forward to sharing insights gained along the way, from another perspective.

Love, Jen Deraspe

Jen Deraspe, is the founder of Nurture Through Nature, an eco-retreat center in Denmark, Maine. Jen is a certified yoga instructor, a licensed Maine guide, and a certified coach and facilitator of The Work of Byron Katie. She has been leading holistic nature retreats since 1999. www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929.

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17

ref lectio ns o f an a m a t eu r s p i r i t u a l s p el u n ker

Fatty Livers, Furniture Moving and the Road Ahead

By Curtis White

U

Then I set about embellishing every interaction in the story—layering over every paragraph with needless detail—elaborate descriptions of lampshades, and beer bottles. I tortured this small-framed story—this small container—good for about a 20 page piece—into a strained, buckling mess of detail.

It got larger and larger, but it didn’t grow. It only swelled.

My life, until recently, had followed a similar course—refusal to sketch out plans—refusal to take responsibility for my goals—refusal to allow myself to take control and make choices.

So, I ate. I chain smoked. I ate some more. I drank heavily and I didn’t write. I didn’t hike or play tennis or swim or any of the other things that would have made me feel good. There was no action, no movement.

I sat in the same scene, doing the same stuff over and over—just like the characters in my story.

Even the dialogue was similar—about broken childhood, regrets and missed opportunities. There was lots of storming in and out and slamming doors—all pointless furniture moving that took the place of real action.

My body, like the story, swelled. My lungs blackened and my liver fattened up.

My body became heavy and uncomfortable.

I was swallowed up by a philosophy that from the beginning was designed to keep me from making decisions and choices—in my life and in my writing. There can be no plot—no movement—no plan! Inspiration must fall out of the sky whole and complete!

I had duped myself into being cocooned in the romance of the bitter, unknown writer with great potential, but not enough time or energy to write. There was money that had to be made. There were restaurants I would have to eat at, and clothes I’d have to buy. The real world required concessions.

I got nourishment from this for a while.

Except, none of this was true. I wasn’t not writing because I was too tired or too busy, or because I had to work and make a living. The truth is I wasn’t writing because I was terrified. I was completely terrified that my choices—the ones I’d have to make to tell a real story—where to take the characters, what to have them say and do—wouldn’t be right.

They wouldn’t live up to the secret wish of the false ego to be stellar, brilliant, and amazing. Nothing I could actually produce would live up to the hype my false ego convinced me I was capable of. It was safer to be a fake. It was safer to identify as a writer but not to actually write.

And those things I did write—those few pieces I wrote were written to keep the lie going—to keep the false identity in tact. They reflected the lie. In these pieces, as in my life, very little happened, no choices were made. They were heavy, brooding and dull.

I’d settled for potential over achievement—for hypothetical grandiosity over real accomplishment.

Looking away from the rearview, and focusing on the road ahead.

Now I don’t feel so burdened by this old way of thinking. I’ve marked it off as a point in the past and I’m moving on from it. There is always the chance that I could return to this old place, but there is less threat of my sticking around because now I know what’s beyond it, and how to get there: by having the courage to be imperfect and to make my own choices and tell the story anyway I choose.

So, Am I there, yet? No. But, I definitely like the look of where I’m headed.

(Announcer Voice) “What will happen to our Spiritual Spelunker Next?... Will he write the next chapter of his book...? Can he detox his liver, effectively? Will he be happy with his decision not to work 40 hours a week for THE MAN... Will he still be able to afford his fancy organic raisin bran?... Stay Tuned...”

Curtis lives and works in Western Massachusetts. He gets grumpy when he’s not writing or when he looses at Scrabble. Otherwise he’s alright. Please feel free to contact him with comments on his work, or with strategies on achieving triple word scores using letters, Q, X, and Z. And Please feel free to email him at: cwwhite78@gmail.com.

August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 17

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ntil recently, I’d been hamstrung by a leaden, pointless philosophy—a philosophy designed with one goal in mind: avoiding the discomfort of taking responsibility and making real choices.

But this has been changing. I’ve made movement in a positive direction. I’ve been eating well and have quit smoking. I’ve been playing tennis and writing. I’ve left the 40 hour workweek, and I’ve even started writing a book—a work of fiction—with an actual plot, and a sketched out plan for how I’ll tell the story.

But, in the spirit of Are We There Yet, I’d like to adjust my own rearview mirror and glance back at the road just traveled for a moment—not to dwell, but to reflect and gain perspective on the road ahead.

Mirror adjusted. Here we go.

In the past, when I would sit down to write a piece of fiction, which was rare, I would freeze when it came time to think about plot—about what would actually happen in the story.

What will I have my characters do? I’d say to myself. I’d say, well, listen, man, it has to be character-driven. I don’t, like, just want to write some boring plot and have all the characters go from planned-point-A to planned-point-B… and then have this, like, fake resolution where everything neatly ties in a bow… because that’ll be math, man… And I don’t do math.

This little inner monologue would often be followed by a cigarette, like a punctuation mark at the end of the sentence.

I would sit at the desk—without any sense of where the story would go—armed only with the vague but unwavering principle that in order for the work to be good—in order for it to be pure—I’d have to abandon plot entirely. It has to be this way, I’d say to myself. You can’t sketch out a plot. You can’t plan to take the characters places. That’s not how inspiration works.

The result of this thinking: one bloated overwritten short story after another where characters talked the whole time, and never left the living room. There was some action: in the form of furniture moving, smoking, and drinking. There were deep conversations about broken childhoods. There were hurt feelings. There was storming in and out and slamming doors.

But there wasn’t movement, or resolution—because I hadn’t allowed enough to happen to the characters.

They, like me, hadn’t experienced enough to change.

One particular story went on like this for a full 65 single spaced pages. I thought, well, this is great. I’ve got half a novel almost! I’ll just beef it up and be on my way!

18

l o v ing e arth

What Is Green Construction

by River J. Lee

Our deep love for life and this planet makes many of us want to live intentionally connected to the earth in good stewardship. In that vein, this column explores sustainable living, practical skills for nurturing the inner hunter/gatherer and stories from the wilderness.

In this article we’ll look at the benefits of greening our homes. Our homes are sacred places where we seek emotional and physical refuge from the forces of the world. We want our homes to be comfortable and safe so that we can express ourselves and explore our closest relationships.

Our homes use a significant amount of energy and often are inefficient and toxic. A survey of your home can be illuminating and help you make a plan for cutting costs, reducing consumption and increasing the health of the house and occupants. There are some very simple things that anyone can do to green their home. Other projects will require a lot of money with savings that payout over many years. If you’re in the position to build a new house you have an even bigger opportunity to create a green structure. I hope the ideas in this article give you some ideas and inspire green your home.

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Here is the definition from the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency): “Green building is the practice of creating structures and using processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building’s lifecycle from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation and deconstruction.

This practice expands and complements the classical building design concerns of economy, utility, durability, and comfort. Green building is also known as a sustainable or high performance building.” In addition to this definition, I would add that green buildings should be less toxic to people and more emotionally satisfying.

chimney effect.

A more elaborate way to use nature to heat and cool a home is to arrange a passive solar heating and cooling system. In the basic passive solar design, the winter sun enters the home through the aperture of the windows and heats up objects (thermal mass). At night window blinds and insulation keep the heat in the house as the objects radiates the heat of the day. In order for passive solar systems to be comfortable, the house needs to be highly insulated and a careful balance between the aperture and thermal mass is required.

During the summer, the windows of a passive solar home can be opened to let in the cool night air that will be stored in the thermal mass. Then, during the day, the house can be closed up and the summer heat kept out. One real advantage of passive solar systems is that it uses standard construction materials but arranges them in a slightly different manner to create a real benefit.

Active solar heating systems absorb heat from the sun and then transfer it into the house via pumps or natural thermo siphoning. The Maine Solar Primer book, by Richard Komp, has diagrams for the construction of small solar units that can fit into a window opening. Other systems are larger and can take up huge sections of a southern wall. Similar to standard heating systems, active solar systems can either heat air or liquid.

The sun can also be used to heat or pre-heat domestic hot water. The solar heated water is stored in an insulated tank after it is warmed by the sun. From there it goes through the water heater when hot water is demanded. A special component is needed on the water heater that senses the solar pre-heated water and lets it pass through if it’s warm enough or heats it up to temperature, if needed. Domestic hot water can be a large percentage of a household’s energy consumption, so installing a solar hot water system can be a wise investment.

Working with nature-Cooling and Heating

The sun is the engine that drives all life on our beautiful planet. The radiation from the sun warms our planet and makes it fit for life. The sun drives the wind currents that then help create the ocean currents. The sun allows the plants to grow which form the basis of most life. In a very real sense, the sun is our father and without it none of what we take for granted would exist. With that in mind, let’s explore how we can extend our relationship with the sun to our homes.

Electrical Conservation, Photo Voltaics and Wind Turbines.

Our homes are sacred places where we seek emotional and physical refuge from the forces of the world.

Probably the most ancient way of being in relation with the sun is to use the sun for warmth when it is cold and find shade, water or wind when it is hot. There are some nice ways of doing this with our homes.

To create a cooler house in the summer and reduce energy consumption, one can plant deciduous shade trees close to the house on the south side. In the shade, the house can be significantly cooler. During the winter, when the leaves fall off the trees, the sun streams down to warm up the house. I love the shade tree idea because the trees and the homeowner form a mutually beneficial relationship. Other techniques for shade include awnings and blinds to regulate the sun that enters the house.

An old technique for cooling a home is to let the warm air rise out of the house, just like the draft in a chimney. To do this, open the southern second floor windows and the first floor windows on the north. The cooler air from the shaded north of the house will be drawn up through the house as the warm air at the top of the house exits on the south. In order for the chimney effect to work, the interior temperature needs to be warmer than the exterior temperature. Some homeowners build a copula on the top of the house to accomplish this same 18 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

Having lived off the grid in numerous locations, I’m familiar with getting by on little electricity and creating electricity from the sun. It is amazing how little electricity we really need. The first thing to look at, even before considering photo voltaics or other electrical alternatives is reducing your use. It is far cheaper to reduce electrical use than to install an alternative electricity producing system.

Phantom loads or standby power are hidden electricity goblins of our homes. Most electronics constantly consume electricity even if they are turned off. These culprits include computers, microwaves, cook stoves, televisions, stereo equipment and so forth and can amount to an average of 10 percent of household energy consumption. If you are at all curious, you can purchase a wattmeter that is an electricity-measuring device and see for yourself what your various devices consume.

To quickly and cheaply save electricity simply unplug all of these appliances when they are not in use. A convenient way of doing this is plugging items into a power strip so that the electricity can be quickly shut off at one convenient place.

I’ve taken to using my cell phone as my alarm clock since some digital alarm clocks use a lot of electricity. However, if you feel that you need a regular alarm clock look for a low wattage model or consider a battery operated clock (which tend to be much more efficient and you can use re-chargeable batteries) before you purchase. If you can live without the clock in the microwave, stove, stereo and so forth then you’ll save electricity by unplugging them when not in use.

It’s worth exploring high efficiency appliances, especially for the furnace, refrigerator, air conditioner, washing machine and the like. Remember that old appliances may use more electricity than new energy saving ones. Compact

19 Florescent Lighting has already become the new norm, and if you’ve reading this you’ve probably already switched over. One final tip is to use a fan instead of air conditioning. Fans should blow on a person, not a space in order to be effective.

In normal circumstances, electricity from photo voltaics is more expensive than grid purchased electricity, however it worth exploring. The basic components of a PV system are the panels, the electronics (inverter, charge controller etc.) and storage.

The panels tend to function for around thirty years (after which their output gradually diminishes) and the electronics will work indefinitely, but standard lead acid deep cycle batteries will only last for around 7 years under normal use. It can be cheaper and involve less maintenance to store the electricity in the grid. You may, however, still be required to pay line charges and various other fees for the privilege of being connected to the grid.

Off the grid homes require even more conservation. It is cost prohibitive for most people who live off the grid to have any appliances that run full time. To do this, off the grid folks tend to use propane refrigerators and propane space heaters that do not use electricity. Because space heaters are not very efficient, they tend to be used for back up heat only. Wood stoves are generally used as the primary heat source in many off the grid homes in the northeast.

The equipment for a system that powers a normal off the grid home is around $7000. If you have someone else install it you’ll easily pay two times that. $17,000 or more will purchase the materials for a deluxe off the grid kit that can power a small conventional home that conserves electricity. In the summer time there is usually more electricity than is needed, but the winter can be challenging especially if there is a two week stretch without sunshine.

Resources and Sources http://www.epa.gov/greenbuilding/pubs/about.htm http://www.energystar.gov/ http://energy.gov/ http://www.newenglandsolar.com/index.htm http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CategoryID=19 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standby_power http://www.getenergyactive.org/wisely/tips.htm http://healthandenergy.com/is_your_house_too_tight.htm http://reca-codes.org/pages/codes/ME-IECC.pdf http://www.eia.gov/kids/energy.cfm?page=us_energy_use-basics http://eartheasy.com/guides.html The Passive Solar House by James Kachadorian, published by Chelsea Green Building Green by Clarke Snell & Tim Callahan, published by Larks Books

River lives an abundant life and loves to spend time with his family, hunt and gather food, cut firewood and maintain his home. River’s professional life reflects a tapestry of skills and interests. River leads trips and teaches outdoor skills through his guide service, Maine Bound Guides. River owns and operates Ridgetop Construction, a small company with a green focus. To help people grow and heal spiritually, River offers counseling and healing work through Mountain Spirit Journeys, (207) 461-4840. http://www.maineboundguides.com/ http://www.mountainspiritjourneys.com/

Wind turbines are a good idea; however, in the northeastern U.S. the sun tends to shine more than the wind blows. Do some careful research and put up a wind-measuring device to see if you’re home is a candidate for wind turbines.

A suitable tower will cost about the same as the turbine itself and it’s hard to get high enough above the trees to be effective. A tower should ideally be high enough that turbulence from wind passing over trees and structures does not interfere with its operation.

Conservation

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A home uses around 41% (2005 study) of its energy expenditures to heat the home. Minimizing accidental air exchange, insulating and increasing heating and cooling efficiency can reduce this percentage.

A tight house is one of the best things you can do to save resources in the long run. A modern house allows two to three air exchanges per hour and a super tight house will exchange even less air. The opinion of many construction professionals is to make the house as tight as reasonably possible and then mechanically ventilate as necessary. A whole book could be dedicated to weatherizing a house but the basic goal is to stop air from moving between the inside and the outside.

To accomplish this task, caulking, spray foam, house wrap, plastic sheeting and tape are the most common tools. A tight house needs to have outside air brought in mechanically via a bathroom fan or an air exchanger. Also, devices that use air, such as wood stoves and furnaces, need to have their own dedicated air supply so they can operate properly.

Insulation is a related topic. The envelope of the building should be as highly insulated as possible. In Maine, the northern most states of most Inner Tapestry readers, the minimum required insulation is R-49 in the ceiling, R-21 in the walls, R-19 in the basement walls, R-20 in crawl space walls and 0.35 U (heat conduction rating-lower is better) factor in the windows. Insulation properties are measured in R (thermal resistance) ratings. The higher the R rating, the more insulative the material is. My favorite type of insulation is cellulose that is ground up newspapers.

It has advantages over fiberglass insulation in that its density does not allow air to pass through, it is non-toxic, and it can be made of recycled materials.

Heating and cooling equipment is much more efficient when it is cleaned and tuned up, so don’t forget to do the maintenance on them. Also, some new equipment can be very efficient so in some cases it may be worth replacing old units for new ones. You’ll pay more up front for a high efficiency furnace or air conditioner, but save energy and money in the long run.

If you’re in a location with healthy forests and access to firewood, it is a good choice because it is a renewable resource. If you’re lucky, you can harvest your own firewood for free.

Water shortage is quickly becoming a global problem as aquifers are being drained. Ways to reduce water intake include installing water saving appliances, showerheads and toilets. Collecting rainwater for the garden and landscaping can be a fun way of working with nature.

Low Toxicity

Modern construction materials often contain toxins that off-gas and pollute the indoor air. The common problem materials are rugs, paints, particleboard, foam in furniture and insulation. Luckily as the problem is becoming more known, alternative materials are becoming more common. Low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints are accessible. Formaldehyde free insulation and particleboard have become available. Wool rugs can be purchased, though the price is high. A little planning and a bit extra money can make your home safer. To deal with any remaining air pollutants, an air exchanger is a useful tool.

August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 19

20

Holding The Power of Peace

by Teresa Piccari Ken Foster

W

e sat in a circle to bless Carol Daigneault’s new book I Hold the Power of Peace and launch it into the world with heartfelt intention. One member cued the music and James Brown yowled his iconic phrase, “I feel good!”

Judging from the smiles and laughs, it’s safe to say we did all feel good. You can’t help but feel good around Daigneault and that is for good reason. She began studying personal empowerment in 1987 and it shows.

Each month for the past three years, Carol Daigneault and Cheryl Evangelos have presented The Gathering, where they guide participants to create a group energy that supports individuals in exploring higher consciousness through discussion and guided visualizations.

On this particular evening, the author was rolling out her new baby, one with a rather long gestation period of a decade.

Receiving the Message

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Like most people, Daigneault was not feeling particularly good after the tragic events of September 11, 2001. She took a soulsearching walk, wondering what she could possibly do to help.

And the answer came as a direct message – “I Hold the Power of Peace.”

Almost immediately, she envisioned a bumper sticker with the phrase emblazoned across it. Daigneault quickly brought that vision into reality through the creation of an indigo sticker with the message printed in bold white letters.

Understanding the message and integrating it into her life happened over the course of the next ten years and is shared in the author’s book, I Hold the Power of Peace: Finding Your Piece in Peace. (New View Studio – ISBN 978-0-9828397-0-6)

Understanding the Power of Peace

After she received the message “I Hold the Power of Peace,” Daigneault recalls striving to understand its meaning, how to interpret it and how to integrate it into her life. Understanding the concept and truly integrating it into her life were two different processes.

“I went into a new phase of exploration and reading. Over time, I began to see a pattern emerge. A host of personal empowerment authors I was studying, were delivering the same message in varying ways. The bottom line was – feeling is key,” she said.

Greg Braden, combined science and cultural anthropology. Wayne Dyer brought a psychology background. Other favorites were channeled pieces by Abraham-Hicks, Sanaya Roman and Barbara Marciniak. Lynn Grabhorn brought the layperson’s perspective.

“At the same time I started my professional Feng Shui certification. My Feng Shui training taught me how to enter a space and feel the energy or Chi that was present,” the author recalled.

Eventually, Daigneault launched her own Feng Shui consulting practice and once she began working with clients and also started teaching, she was challenged with finding her own path.

“When I began teaching I realized that having to translate concepts into words helped them take on a deeper understanding for me. Making handouts for clients and students to explain various Feng Shui principles and adjustments, helped me to really get clear and crystallize my ideas,” she said.

Writing the Power of Peace

It was time to put aside books by others and write one of her own.

But then, the writer experienced frustration over the idea that she should feel peaceful all the time. How could she be a torchbearer of peace if she didn’t always feel peaceful, she wondered.

“This is why it took me so long to write I Hold the Power of Peace. I thought I had to be peaceful all the time to be able to share the message. I thought I had to be the perfect expression of the concept to be a qualified messenger. I felt inadequate, dissatisfied with myself for not ‘getting it,’” she explained.

During the writing of the book, the writer experienced a shift. “I softened and became easier on my own self, more peaceful and loving toward myself. I have come to the conclusion that all any of us can do, including me, is to do our best.”

“I’m holding and being peace more often. Allowing myself to enjoy and focus my thoughts on feeling good,” she said.

Feeling Good

Daigneault says some may misinterpret her idea of "feeling good" as allowing ourselves to overindulge. “I have a strong moral code and know feeling good has nothing to do with indulging myself. It is a sensation in my body, an overriding impression of pure satisfaction and uplifting joy.”

As a highly empathic person, the author has struggled with not allowing the energy of others to shift her from her center. “I continue to strive to right my ship, adjust my sails and keep a center that can positively support myself and others.

Patience, gratitude, understanding and energy are all words I turn to as I find myself listing,” she explained.

The power of peace is more than a lack of violence, the writer emphasized. Even non-violent people can be unhappy, worried, or stressed, she explained, and as a result, are not contributing to building global peace as much as they could.

“The feeling that each of us carries, or holds, is the energy that we radiate out to the world. How each of us feels, is our piece in peace,” said Daigneault.

Right, like James Brown said. © 2011 Teresa Piccari Embrace peace in your life by visiting www.IHoldthePowerofPeace.com where you can join the conversation and get a copy of Daigneault’s book.

The Gathering meets on the second Thursday evening of each month at The Wellness Center, located at 69 Elm Street in Camden, Maine. For more information, visit www.The-Gatherings.blogspot.com.

Teresa Piccari is a writer, teacher and creativity coach living in coastal Maine.

She is the proprietor of The Village Scribe, a professional writing and editing business, at The Wellness Center in Camden at 71 Elm St. She teaches writing workshops including Memoir, Creative Writing and Mythic Structure, and she also runs the monthly Ducktrap Writers’ Round Table on third Sundays at the Camden Public Library from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. Contact her at The21stCenturyBohemian@hotmail.com or (207) 344-7070.

"We don't see things as they are, we see them as we are." — Anaïs Nin 20 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

21

a breath o f he alin g

Are We Ever There?

by Donna Amrita Davidge

“It’s always too early to quit” ....Norman Vincent Peale “Everything that is today could not be if it were not for that which was before”

“Yoga without pranayama (breath expansion) is just a bunch of jerky movements.”

To take it further, when the breath stops we no longer live. When we draw our last breath, will we remember moments of joy, bliss, laughter, contentment, beauty, smiles, wonder as well as the moments of worry, fear and wondering what if ?

“World Enough and Time,” by Christian McEwen is a book coming out in September by Bauhan Publishing, a New England publisher. She asks us to look at how we live and create our lives, moment to moment. Our technology moves faster and faster. People pride themselves on being too busy and tired or just don’t know how not to be that. What are we all chasing after? Will we ever be there? I do question when attractive young women on their career track come to our retreat married to jobs that require long hours, sometimes much travel and whose lives seem short changed somehow. Ms McEwen dares to suggest that the recession may be a good thing, a forced way to reassess the way we are living.

The businessman came to me because he wanted to learn to meditate. He could not meditate for sixty seconds because he said his thoughts intruded and he felt he would miss out on something by simply sitting with his thoughts. Someone might see his life as more fulfilling than someone else, more like he has “gotten there.” Is that true?

Where is there? Do a bunch of jerky movements make up your yoga practice or life? Or do you breathe into it slowly, to just be. Again we are not the determiners of the breaths we will breathe. What we can determine is what and how we do the breath and life, so that wherever we have gotten, it is just where we are supposed to be.

Yogis believe that the numbers of breaths we each have are pre-determined at birth.

\

* One Minute Breath

Given by Yogi Bhajan to help get us through the stress and anxiety of the Information Age: • •

Sit straight cross-legged on the floor or in a chair.

Close your eyes and notice the natural flow of your breath in and out through the nostrils.

• Start to count your breath. The ratio should be the same on both the suspension and holding of the breath, i.e. the inhale, and the exhale.

• To do the one minute breath the inhale will be slow to a count of 20, hold the breath in for twenty counts and exhale slowly for 20 counts.

If this is too much, create a shorter breath; 8-8-8/10-10-10/12-12-12 for example.

Do this for as long as you can up to 30 minutes, shorter is fine and see what you can build up to!

Donna Amrita Davidge owns and operates Sewall House (est. 1865) Yoga Retreat (est. 1997) in Island Falls, Maine from May until the end of October – open year round by request. www.sewallhouse.com info@sewallhouse.com, (888) 235-2395.

"I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I needed to be." — Douglas Adams August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 21

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...Abraham-Hicks Where is there? For all of our own unique hopes, dreams and ambitions we may have our own definition of “getting there.” The Dalai Lama says karma is what determines it all. Logic certainly doesn’t, when we see someone who does all things possible, taking the right steps, but still not achieving what they set out to do, whether it is to find a relationship, create their own business or find their desired job. If karma determines this should we just stop trying? I think we can choose to simply keep learning and growing from it all. Even if we do get there, a new there is created. When we attain one goal or success in life it is most ungratifying to not reach for another challenge, another opportunity to grow. In your yoga practice it can be a new pose or a more advanced level pranayama. There is always somewhere new to be.

Robert Fisher, a man I have taught Kundalini Yoga to in New York City, has written a book. I knew little about Robert, except he kept appearing in class in various places I taught over the years and that he had written a book. Recently I had the opportunity to speak with Robert on his new blog talk radio show and in turn I received his book. “Monergy” is a book where Robert shares lessons learned from his life experiences. This book sheds some light on what some people consider “getting there” and what they will do to “get there.” If getting there means lying, cheating, deceiving, stealing or intimidating and dominating others, is it worth it? Some think so. Robert and I think "no." He writes conversationally about choices, detachment, the way we treat others and ourselves as well as the power we gain from meditation (personal power, the real kind, not power over others).

Society emphasizes getting there perhaps too much – when we get rich, famous, etc. we are there. Where? And what if we don’t? Motive, the energy behind what you want from your life, is key. I taught a well-known actress for a few months while she was shooting a film in New York City. She was very private and I could feel that she took her craft of acting seriously and was grateful for the good luck she had in her career. I later read an article where someone interviewed her and said it seemed she could take or leave acting. That is true detachment. I have reached for things in my life and not attained them, not gotten there, yet life is still here, growth and learning is still possible. That is a gift.

My ninety-six year old father recently sent me a clipping from the New York Times about a billionaire businessman I had taught for a brief time about ten years ago. The article reported that this man has been diagnosed and treated for brain cancer and has one more big business turnaround he is working on and hopes to accomplish. Abraham Hicks says we are never there yet. In the end we are not the determiners.

Fifteen years ago I was the maid of honor for a dear friend. She married a very successful businessman and had four beautiful children. This is all she had wanted from life. Mothers must feel they are there when they watch their children grow up and see what their lives become. Mothers look so forward to grandparenting and growing old with their spouse. For my friend her karma has been to battle a rare form of cancer bravely for the past seven years. Her husband sent out an email this week saying she is in the hospital fighting for each breath. Her eight and ten year old girls painted her nails. “A bittersweet moment,” he wrote.

The 30 minutes in the morning I take to do the one minute breath* I appreciate all the more. Both the businessman and my dear friend have touched my life. He has brushed it, she in a deep bond. Today I discovered this quote in a book review online:

22

ARE WE THERE YET?

by Jill Marie Langdon

T

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he journey has just begun… but the moaning was centuries old. The Israelites Love is not just a word or a feeling. It is real; you show your love – God‘s love in had left Egypt and were making what should have been an 11-day trek to you – to and for others. Love is acts of kindness. Love finds ways to compliment Canaan. Why did it take them 40 years? There were many possible reasons. people and build up their esteem. God’s love is manifested by our own relationship The most prevalent one being that they did not listen to God, followed by not with Him. By trusting God, we sow seeds of being good to somebody else. obeying His commandments, and thinking they could create a “god” out of their In Scale Down - A Realistic Guide to Balancing Body, Soul and Spirit, by Donna own jewelry. As children of God, they pushed His patience limit. The majority of the Demetre, she states the way people learn new behaviors is through positive modeling.

Israelites did not make it to the Promised Land and died in the desert after being We learn and change in the following ways: bitten by snakes. ] Observation Like children, the Israelites did not take responsibility for their actions. They ] Imitation allowed themselves to become enslaved in the first place and blamed the Egyptians ] Practice (repetition) for their own bad behavior and unhappiness. They also refused to face the truth.

These are the ways we are mentally programmed by God. People murmured, complained, and grumbled. They found fault with God and Moses. The Israelites also spoke negatively all the time and failed to be grateful for Friends, family, coworkers, as well as many other people with similar goals can be the Manna that God had provided. It was their attitude along the way that prevented a great source of encouragement and support. Team up to provide accountability for them from reaching their destination. one another. The following steps provide powerful modeling for your life: Children learn to grow in stages according to Erikson. Questioning their parents about the 1). Create meaningful connections. world in order to understand it. Psychologists ask 2). Observe healthy people with life issues to use why children behave this or that way and observe for your model. them under preset conditions to formulate 3). Pray or seek council before taking action. a reason. The scientists study a multitude of 4). Set boundaries with unhealthy people and limit examples before stating that their findings are a time with them. “truth” for all children at certain ages and stages 5). Live like you are the model for others in your life. of development.

As we prod along on our newfound path of love, Likewise, in his book, The Biology of Belief the fruits of this spirit enlighten our souls as we Unleashing the Power of Consciousness Matter and focus on new ways of being: Miracles, Bruce H. Lipton PhD, studied a single (simple) cell in order to reach his conclusion ] Love: is the body (vessel) God has given you. In that human beings will evolve once again into other words, treat it well. an enlightened community that has love and ] Joy: be filled with joy for who you are right compassion for everyone and everything on this now and that you are a child of God planet—a place where every being is supported. ] Peace: have peace as you embrace God’s plans Humans are not stuck in one mode of behavior – we for you knowing that you have victory. can change. One species of chimps called the ] Patience: wait for the victory. Remember Bonobos, live in a non-violent community. They God’s perfect timing in the past and that His time diffuse anger by engaging in sexual activity. They Love is not just a word or a feeling. is not your time. also have co-dominant males as well as females. ] Kindness: Be kind to yourself. Be positive and Most human violence is neither necessary nor do not criticize yourself for making a mistake. inherent. We can stop it. We can choose to band together, like the single cell did, ] Goodness: focus on the good changes you are making in your lifestyle. in order to propagate and continue living – we too, shall form a community of likeminded individuals who work toward advancing the human civilization. An ethic of ] Faithfulness: God is faithful and He will give you faithfulness in your decisions. “survival of the most loving” is the only ethic that will ensure a healthy personal life as well as a ] Gentleness: treat yourself well with comfort that comes from God. healthy planet,” Lipton states. ] Self control: God is waiting to give you strength.

First Timothy 4:8 states, …“physical training is of some value, but Godliness (spiritual When our attitude is one of willingness to learn, we stop allowing others to control training) is useful and of value in everything and in every way.“ This must be done on a us.

We roll up our sleeves and head out with each step taking us further along our regular basis, like a practice. The first step in this spiritual training is to set your own path of love. We acquire fresh responses to old issues. We mature by letting go mind in the right direction. We must get a revelation about God’s unconditional love of out -grown attitudes and stifling opinions – no matter how well they served us at for us. In John 4:16, “… and we know and believe that the love of God cherishes us. God is one time.

Our egos get attached to the old ways and new ideas can’t come in. What love and he who dwells and continues in love, dwells and continues in God and God dwells and do you focus your attention on? Are you ready for new growth? Let today be filled continues with him.” God is love. He can do nothing else but love us no matter what with a new loving approach. You will know when you have arrived without having to we do. We need to be consciously aware of God’s love for us daily. God carries us ask, “are we there yet?” through many different situations as well as challenges. God’s love is responsible for our well-being. God shows us our faults in order for us—His children—to learn and grow from them. When we feel good about ourselves, having a healthy dose of selflove, then we can reach out to others and spread the love. God’s love is not complete until it has run full course flowing through us to others.

22 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

Jill Marie Langdon is a freelance writer, fine artist and studio teacher on the practice of “letting go,” where her students learn the Tao of Painting in the Mid-Coast Maine area. Inspired by flowers and beauty in general, her works can be seen at www.wix.com/jill_marie/artscspe_studios.

23

Now Is The Time To Begin!

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NOW is the time to begin, to see a glimmer of promise in those with whom we disagree

NOW is the time to begin to feel ourselves wildly abundant on all levels.

NOW is the time to begin, to take a deep breath or say a prayer or affirmation to help feel our own peace.

NOW is the time to begin, to develop and demonstrate a deep love for ourselves, our partners, our family and people everywhere.

NOW is the time to begin, to see ourselves being happy and living a life we love.

NOW is the time to begin, to expect that each human soul here on Earth will reach their fullest potential.

NOW is the time to begin to expect those who have disappointed us time and again, to surprise us and succeed heartily.

NOW IS THE TIME TO BEGIN. Shall We!

by Carol Daigneault A Poem from: I Hold the Power of Peace Art Courtesy of www.hollylsmith.artspan.com

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O P E N H O U S E

AUGUST 9TH August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 25

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t he w ay o f lif e - it s e l f

The End May Not Be Near, So There!

by Norm Hirst

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re we there yet? It depends on what is “we” and “there”. I think of we as applying to life; all life. I think of there as being ready to go on a journey. For our time it will be an unprecedented journey. From our human perspective living conditions that used to work no longer do. For example, recent college graduates can no longer find work. What may have been seen as career paths no longer exist. What may have been seen as financial security no longer works.

Even in nature there are strange events occurring now, such as thousands of birds “commuting” between seasonal homes by following compass directions, such as flying north, fell to the ground dead and soon after that thousands of fish showed up dead in a harbor. Even so called experts had no believable explanations.

To anyone familiar with magnetic pole shifts, such as north becoming south and south becoming north, such events would be expected.

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The end of the world was thought by many to occur on this past May 21st.

Personally I saw no believable evidence. It was just an opinion. Now many talk about the end on December 21, 2012. It is not just unfounded opinion. There is believable evidence. But there are many questions, such as what does “end” mean?

Magnetic pole shifts have occurred at intervals of 200,000-250,000 years. However the last pole shift was 780,000 years ago. (How we can have empirical evidence for such periods is a story worth telling, but not now). The universe is not simply a fixed thing, but is living intelligence.

As we begin to understand the ways of life-itself, I think of each period as an epoch. The increasing length of an epoch makes sense. An epoch lasts long enough to reach a kind of satisfaction, i.e. it has done all it can. It leaves all that it has achieved and starts a new epoch. Life is creative. There is not a big gap between the first two epochs but they accomplished a great amount as starting conditions for the third epoch.

What does “end” mean? It means the end of an epoch and the beginning of a new epoch. Now it becomes our task to envision what the new epoch will be. We begin by asking what did the last epoch leave for the new epoch?

780,000 years ago our ancestors were using stone tools to scratch out a living.

I suspect our most primitive ancestors were given skills that could develop new forms of intelligence. (The full story of the 780,000 is fascinating but I will leave it for now. Others are more qualified.) The new forms of intelligence provided for new perspectives. By about 300 years ago the arts, philosophy and science were established. There were two fundamental themes. One theme emphasized matter while the other theme emphasized process. Matter led to physics with mathematics as fundamental laws. Unfortunately the structure of mathematical laws excludes meaning. Life cannot be lived without meaning. Life is based on societies of organisms. As we learn an appropriate way to think about societies of organisms we will find they are primarily about meaning.

I searched for definitions of living organisms. They were most disappointing. They were seen as assemblies of various systems that could provide for basic functions we think of as living, such as finding food. A basic element of control is homeostasis requiring fixed-points and adapting to its environment. Finally, there was no challenge to the second law of thermodynamics—the entropy law. None of this, except finding food, is appropriate for a living organism. What is?

This brings us to current research. Is “there” what we might call “a blue print for reliable thinking” and is “there” significant empirical research? These are questions to be answered.

In life-itself research, life is a domain of living organisms. So far organisms have not sufficiently been described. It is only during the last three years that new emergent knowledge has provided previously unknown insights into how organisms work. Before that we assumed they worked like machines. Physics has been assumed to be the most basic science. As new knowledge has emerged it has become evident that physics does not address the full spectrum of reality and therefore it is not the most basic science. What has emerged is discovery of a natural domain we now call life-itself. The World is alive and, except for artifacts, 26 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

every natural entity works, as life-itself requires.

Life forms habits. Physics is a sub domain of habits expressed in mathematics without meaning. Those habits can be most useful for engineering technology but they cannot express the fullness of reality. Computer experts dream of computers that are so powerful they become alive and will make humans redundant. But to live requires living energy. For example, stem cells can be used to repair damaged tissue. But if the patient dies, the whole process stops.

For reliable thinking we suggest Whitehead’s theory (metaphysics) of organisms.

Whitehead’s metaphysics is the most advanced and sophisticated version of process philosophy, it takes events rather than enduring objects for reality. Visit our new website (www.autognomics.org) for ways to explore this foundational thinking.

For empirical research I think confirming data is important. It is satisfying for me to be aware of empirical data concerning past pole shifts. Putting it all together I am not sure that the so-called data is reliable.

I am not about to agree that the designated December 21, 2012 date means end of life on earth. I think the end of an epoch is more likely.

Norm and Skye Hirst, PhD – co-founders of The Autonomics Institute.

Together they are combining their work as consultants, researchers and educators to bring this emerging view of life as organism into focus. As the shift of consciousness occurs, Skye works as coach and educator to individual progressive leaders worldwide, helping business owners, policy makers, and community organizers process the difficult challenges facing us at this time. Beginning at MIT studying physics, mathematics and values, Norm chose as his life work the study of where and how values show up in science. 50 years later he’s bringing out his findings of a whole new reality, philosophy and science for understanding life-itself dynamics.

Contact them at hirst@autognomics.org or shirst@autognomics.org.

You're never going to get to any final place.

And so, we want to remind you to relax and start having fun on the way.

--- Abraham

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The Way of Tarot Life Patterns & the Soul's Journey

By Karen Hollis

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earning the lesson inherent in every situation is the key to living a life of enduring happiness. Over the 25 years I have worked as a professional intuitive, conducting both Tarot readings and mediumship sessions, I have observed patterns—problems and possibilities—emerge from the life questions clients bring to the reading room. These Life Patterns play out in situations and relationships, often bringing about emotional pain and spiritual angst. In my way of Tarot, there are Eight Life Patterns that manifest, for example, on relationship struggles, in family inheritance squabbles, in the role money plays in relationship to ego and self-worth, in the quest for love and in maintaining boundaries with other people. Common among people who come for readings is a feeling of being “stuck,” wanting relief from the anguish resulting from a Pattern and a desire to understand why that Pattern is active in their life.

Keep in mind that a Tarot reading reveals the inner workings of the subconscious mind—the psyche (aka, soul). Tarot can provide a person with understanding of the Soul Lesson inherent in their experience of a Life Pattern. Key to facilitating this understanding is, through the reading, to cast a bright light of truth on the Vices that bind a person to a particular Life Pattern and to identify the Virtues that can empower him to break free from it. If they so choose, they can use this understanding to create a more conscious and fulfilling life.

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Tarot, 7 Vices & 7 Virtues For those not familiar, Tarot cards are an ancient tool of divination whose exact origin is quite mysterious. The first hint of Tarot cards used for divination dates to the late 1600’s with increasing evidence in the mid-1700s. The purpose of the cards evolved with the changing social and religious mores of the times. One of the most significant shifts occurred as the early Church began instructing its followers on moral dilemmas and humanity’s tendency to sin. At that time, Tarot cards, dubbed the “Devil’s Deck”, were banned by the Church – no one outside of Church authority could guide the masses on the state of the psyche (soul). Not surprisingly, Tarot cards contain symbolism related to the Seven Deadly Sins, also known as the “Capital Vices.” Counterbalancing the Vices are the Seven Virtues that have the power to facilitate the soul’s growth toward enlightenment/redemption.

Though Tarot cards have a historical link to the Church and its will-to-power, vices and virtues exist in all the major religions not just Judeo-Christian traditions.

The many paths of Buddhism delineate a progressive Eightfold Path including virtues such as compassion, loving-kindness, forbearance, patience and wisdom.

The pivotal virtues in the Hindu tradition focus on allowing followers to keep their Dharma (i.e., duty or calling) by embracing virtues such as altruism, restraint, honesty, non-violence and reverence. There are many virtues extolled in Muslim scripture including prayer, repentance, honesty, frugality, prudence, discipline, patience, hope, courage, justice, tolerance and wisdom. In Chinese philosophy, virtues relate to inner personal character and emphasize kindness, morality, wisdom, strength and integrity among others.

The most widely recognized list of Vices and Virtues evident in the symbolism of Tarot cards, are:

Vice Virtue Lust Chastity/Purity Gluttony Temperance/Justice Greed Charity/Love Sloth Diligence/Fortitude Wrath Patience/Peace Envy Kindness/Compassion Pride Humility/Courage

Life Patterns & the Soul’s Journey Not everyone faces the same Life Pattern and not every person deals with more than one Pattern in a lifetime. Until the Soul (Life) Lesson associated with a Pattern is learned, people find themselves repeating the same Pattern with different people and in different circumstances. While I believe we incarnate into earthly life with predetermined Pattern(s), it also is possible that we may experience other Patterns if that is what is in the best interest of the soul. Either way, cultivating awareness of our Vices, recognizing choices and engaging the power of the Virtues helps us learn valuable Soul or Life Lessons.

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Sadly, rather than to evolve and grow in a soulful way, some people who become aware of the Vices that bind them in a Pattern choose inaction. They may be unable, or simply unwillingly to summon the energy of the Virtue(s) that can move them forward, spiritually and emotionally. Taken in this light, it is clear how exploring the deep meaning of your active Life Pattern(s) can empower you to create a more conscious and happy life, furthering the journey of the soul in this lifetime.

A Way of Tarot Life Pattern: “I’ll Have the Reuben” The “I’ll have the Reuben” Pattern describes the relationship between caretaker and the person they are caring for. This Pattern can, but not always, manifest in situations such as an adult child caring for an ailing parent; a parent babying an adult child; or one spouse catering to the needs of her/his partner.

The caretaker “feels good,” at first, because they are constantly giving; this satisfies a need within themselves. The caretaker exhibits Pride in their ability to selflessly help another person. The caretaker is quite unaware of how they are failing to allow the other person to self-actualize and fulfill their own soul’s purpose. For the person being cared for, their life lesson is tied to Sloth: There’s no motivation to change in other ways if your every need is being met, as in this example with “Reuben and Diane.”

Thirty-two year old “Diane” came for readings because she was worn down from her failed attempts to get “Reuben,” age thirty-four, to take responsibility for his role in their relationship. Reuben had been living off Diane’s good nature and hard work for three years—in which time, Diane had thrown him out and taken him back many times. Reuben was frequently unemployed, failed to pay toward rent when he did work and didn’t help with maintaining the home. The last time Diane allowed Reuben back in her life was when he became injured on a work site. Diane catered to his every need. When marriage was brought up, Reuben was evasive.

Despite all of this, Diane still wanted to “have her Reuben” but she wasn’t getting “the Reuben” she really deserve.

In the Tarot readings, Diane was able to see her Pattern with Reuben stifled her emotional and spiritual growth. When she had become dissatisfied enough with her life as experienced in this Pattern, she was ready for change.

Diane tapped the energy of the virtue, Humility, which helps a person recognize the limits of their abilities and not, out of pride, continually reach for something greater and greater. In Diane’s case, Pride kept her reaching for a relationship with Reuben that he would never give to her; she was squandering her own self-worth in the process.

Temperance helped her recognize how her caretaking impeded not only her growth but Reuben’s, also.

Reuben left Diane’s apartment and moved in with his mother, who perpetuated his Sloth. Gluttonous for whatever was handed to him, Reuben allowed his mother to meet his every need, from cleaning-up after him, giving him money and catering to other needs while pouring on guilt for any moment that Reuben was not on her radar. His mother literally “babied Reuben to death.” Some months later, Reuben committed suicide.

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Eight Life Patterns in Hollis’s Way of Tarot 1. The Gilded Cage: Are you compromising your personal integrity by staying in a relationship that is unhealthy or deceitful for the purpose of financial security and ego gratification? The Vices that bind a person in this Pattern are greed, lust and pride. The Virtues that empower a person toward change are love, purity, humility and courage.

2. Mom Loved You Best: Do you equate the depth of a parent’s love by the size of the inheritance left to you? Or the way other siblings are treated? This Life Pattern deals with confronting the Vices wrath, greed and pride. Growth comes through the energy of the Virtues patience, charity, humility, courage and diligence.

3. Playin’ with the Queen of Hearts: Do you bounce from one “soul mate” to the next, never finding true happiness with any of them? Vices that bind a person in this Life Pattern are lust, envy, pride and greed. Virtues involved include chastity/purity, humility, kindness/compassion and love.

4. Dead or Alive: Are you unable to come to terms with the loss of a loved one? Often, there is wrath/anger at the person who passed away, and sloth in that the person refuses to do the work to move on with life.

Overcoming this Pattern involves the energy of the Virtues patience, love, peace and fortitude.

5. Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves: Do you experience “use and abuse” by friends, co-workers or loved ones? The hostile situations typical in this Life Pattern are associated with the Vices sloth, greed and pride. Virtues that empower change are diligence, love and courage.

7. For Better, For Worse or Just for Now: Can you tell if someone, even yourself, is entering into relationships as matter of convenience versus true commitment? Vices evident in this Life Pattern are gluttony, lust, and envy. Virtues that empower change are temperance/justice, chastity/ purity and compassion.

8. I’ll Have the Reuben: Do you perpetually “take care of” others with no consideration for how such caretaking impedes self-actualization— for yourself and the other person? Life lessons in this Pattern are taught through the Vices pride, gluttony and sloth. Virtues that empower change are humility/courage, temperance/justice and fortitude.

Diane was devastated by Reuben’s choice to end his life, but given their history she understood how things got to that point for her ex-boyfriend. She promised herself to maintain healthy boundaries to prevent repeating the Pattern in future relationships. As of this writing, Diane enjoys a happier, more fulfilling partnership with the new man in her life. (noted in the Positive Outcome Triplet).

This potent example shows how not understanding why we are stuck, and not allowing ourselves to become empowered to change, can stifle—even destroy—the soul. We also see how the Vices and Virtues seek balance, as all things do in the Universe.

Karen Hollis is a clairaudient intuitive and has practiced for over 20 years. Her work has encompassed the finding of missing persons as well as the investigations of local hauntings. She is proficient in remote viewing palmistry, graphology and psychometry. She has lectured extensively and has taught both the Tarot and regular deck card reading courses. Readings may be done by phone, or in person. Phone readings for her North American clients are done in the evenings only. In-person reads take place at Karen's office at 2433 Main Street Suite #7, Rocky Hill, CT. Please call to make an appointment. If you would like to explore the Tarot Patterns that may be active in your life, get unstuck and move toward a more conscious, soulful and happy life, please connect with Karen Hollis at kahollis@comcast.net or www.readingsbykaren.com.

Writing Coaching for this article provided by Karen M. Rider.

Discussion and Vibrational Sound Meditation Gongs and Crystal Bowls create a harmonic resonance that vibrates through each cell of the body.

When in harmonic resonance, resistance no longer exists as a dis-ease factor within the body.

This allows harmonic tones of our body, emotions, mind and spirit to produce a harmonious resonance within and without creating life as abundant joy.

All sessions are energetically supported.

Wear comfortable clothing. Bring plenty of water, eye covering, a pillow, blanket and something soft to lie on.

PLEASE no scents ~ perfume or cologne.

Join us Thursday

August 18th at 6:30-8:30 PM $20 Healing Harmonic Sound Concert with Gong and Crystal Bowls

Join us Saturday

September 17th - 9:00 to 5:00 PM Sound Workshop

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September 17th - 7:00 PM Healing Harmonic Sound Concerts with Gong and Crystal Bowls

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Friday, Saturday & Sunday October 21st - 7:00 PM Freeport Community Center 53 Depot Street, Freeport, ME

Healing Harmonic Sound Concerts with Gong and Crystal Bowls $25 October 22nd-23rd - 9:00 to 5:00 PM Sound Workshop ~ Soul Light Activation $200 Leapin' Lizards, 123 Main Street, Freeport

FMI & Reservations (required) 207 865-0900 August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 29

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6. La Mirage: Do you feel unfulfilled despite all that you have acquired in life? Vices present in this Life Pattern are gluttony, greed, and envy.

Release from this pattern involves the energy of temperance/justice, charity and humility.

Harmonic Sound Immersion

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MASTERING CREATIVE ANXIETY

by Eric Maisel, Ph.D.

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any anxieties arise as you attempt to create anything: a painting, a new recipe, a home business, or a solution to a personal problem. There is the anxiety associated with going into the unknown, with relinquishing control, with making choices—innumerable anxieties arise as you endeavor to create, whether that creation is something as grand as a novel or as everyday as a new filing system or new décor for your living room.

In order to deal with all the anxiety that comes with creating, you must acknowledge and accept that anxiety is part of the process, demand of yourself that you will learn—and really practice!—some anxiety management skills, and get on with your creating and your anxiety management. Here are some excellent everyday anxiety management tools.

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1. Attitude choice You can choose to be made anxious by every new opinion you hear or you can choose to keep your own counsel. You can choose to approach life anxiously or you can choose to approach it calmly. It is a matter of flipping an internal switch—one that you control.

2. Improved appraising Incorrectly appraising situations as more important, more dangerous or more negative than they in fact are raises your anxiety level. You can significantly reduce your experience of anxiety by refusing to appraise situations as catastrophically negative.

3. Lifestyle support Your lifestyle supports calmness or it doesn’t. When you rush less, create fewer unnecessary pressures and stressors, get sufficient rest and exercise, eat a healthy diet, take time to relax, include love and friendship, and live in balance, then you reduce your experience of anxiety. How much harder will it be to deal with the creative anxiety in your life if your very lifestyle is producing its own magnum of anxiety?

4. Behavioral changes What you actually do when you feel anxious makes a big difference.

If a ten-minute shower or a twenty-minute walk can do as good a job of reducing your anxiety as watching another hour of televised golf or smoking several cigarettes, isn’t it the behavior to choose? There are many time-wasting, unhealthy, and dispiriting ways to manage anxiety—and many efficient, healthy, and uplifting ways, too.

5. Deep breathing The simplest anxiety management technique is deep breathing. By stopping to deeply breathe (5 seconds on the inhale, 5 seconds on the exhale) you stop your racing mind and alert your body to the fact that you want to be calmer. Begin to incorporate deep breaths into your daily routine, especially at those times when you think about and turn to your creative projects.

6. Cognitive work Changing the way you think is probably the most useful and powerful antianxiety strategy. You can do this straightforwardly by 1) noticing what you are saying to yourself; 2) disputing the self-talk that makes you anxious or does not serve you; and 3) substituting more affirmative, positive or useful self-talk. This three-step process really works if you will practice it and commit to it.

7. Incanting A variation on the last two strategies is to use them together and to “drop” a useful cognition into a deep breath, thinking “half” the thought as you inhale and “half” the thought as you exhale. Incantations that can reduce your experience of anxiety include “I am perfectly calm” or “I trust my resources.” Experiment with some short phrases that, when dropped into a deep breath, help you quell your anxious feelings.

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8. Physical relaxation techniques Physical relaxation techniques include such simple procedures as rubbing your shoulder and such elaborate procedures as “progressive relaxation techniques” where you slowly relax each part of your body in turn. Doing something physically soothing can prove really useful in the moment to help you calm yourself and when used in combination with your cognitive practice.

9. Mindfulness techniques Meditation and other mindfulness practices that help you take charge of your thoughts and get a grip on your mind can prove very useful as part of your anxiety management program. The better a job you do of releasing those thoughts and replacing them with more affirmative ones, the less you will experience anxiety.

10. Guided imagery Guided imagery is a technique where you guide yourself to calmness by mentally picturing a calming image or a series of images. You might picture yourself on a blanket by the beach, walking by a lake, or swinging on a porch swing. Determine what images calm you by trying out various images and then actually bring them to mind when you are feeling anxious.

11. Disidentification techniques “Disidentification” is the core idea of the branch of psychotherapy known as psychosynthesis. Rather than attaching too much significance to a passing thought, feeling, worry, or doubt, you remind yourself that you are larger than and different from all the stray, temporal events that seem so important in the moment. For example, you stop saying “I’m anxious” and begin to say, “I’m having a passing feeling of anxiety.” By making these linguistic changes you fundamentally reduce your experience of anxiety.

12. Ceremonies and rituals Creating and using a ceremony or ritual is a simple but powerful way to reduce your experience of anxiety. For many people lowering the lights, lighting candles, putting on soothing music and in other ways ceremonially creating a calming environment helps significantly. Learn to ceremonially move from the rush of everyday life to the quiet of your creative work, whether that work may be.

13. Reorienting techniques If your mind starts to focus on some anxiety-producing thought or situation or if you feel yourself becoming too wary, watchful and vigilant, one thing you can do is to consciously turn your attention in another direction and reorient yourself away from your anxious thoughts and toward a more neutral stimulus.

14. Discharge techniques Anxiety and stress build up in the body and techniques that vent that stress can prove very useful. For example, one discharge technique that actors learn to employ to reduce their experience of anxiety before a performance is to “silently scream”—to make the facial gestures and whole body intentions that go with uttering a good cleansing scream without actually uttering any sound.

If you intend to create, whether it’s building a home business, writing a novel, or experiencing everyday life more deeply, get ready for anxiety. It is coming! You can handle it beautifully if you use the simple tools I’ve just described and turn yourself into an anxiety management expert.

Eric Maisel, Ph.D., is America’s foremost creativity coach and is widely known as the creativity expert. His most recent book is Mastering Creative Anxiety. Based on the book Mastering Creative Anxiety © 2011 by Eric Maisel. Printed with permission of New World Library, Novato, CA. www.newworldlibrary.com.

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explorin g the wo r l d r e l i g i on s Apocalypse

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The End of the World Real and Imagined

by James Bean

The Second Coming of the Gospel of Thomas I am a great fan of the Gospel of Thomas, a collection of the spiritual sayings of Yeshua (Jesus) re-discovered in Egypt several decades ago. In the Gospel of Thomas, disciples are always asking Yeshua when will “the end of the world” take place, when will the “Kingdom come?” And the reply is always something like: “You don’t get it.

What you’re looking for is already here—you just don’t know how to see it.”

Saying 91. He said to them, “You examine the face of heaven and earth, but you have not come to know the one who is in your presence, and you do not know how to examine the present moment.”

Saying 113. His disciples said to him, “When will the kingdom come?” “It will not come by watching for it. It will not be said, ‘Look, here!’ or ‘Look, there!’ Rather, the Father’s Kingdom is spread out upon the earth, and people don’t see it.”

The quotes above remind me of a saying of the Sufi poet Rumi: “Some persons, relying on the promise of ‘tomorrow’, have wandered for years around that door, but ‘tomorrow’ never comes. My friend, the Sufi is the child of the present moment: to say ‘tomorrow’ is not our way.”

Level Confusion Attempting to Bring Heaven To Earth Through Magical Thinking Most of the world religions have a cosmology of several heavens or planes, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhs, Islam—the Sufis, Kabbalah. The Gnostic religion, in Pagan or Hermetic, Jewish, and Christian forms, had a system of several heavens also.

I recall that Shamanism has them being inside the earth. The old medieval view of the Catholic and Protestant West was/is? that the heavens were physically “up” in the sky or beyond the so-called “dome” of the sky. That series of volumes known as, A Course In Miracles, has a wonderful term for projecting or imagining outside one’s self realms that are actually within and non-physical, or expecting a material Kingdom of Heaven to descend down from the sky and land on the earth like a flying saucer. The Course calls this: “level confusion.”

Another example of level confusion is the belief that magic dates on a calender can suspend the laws of physics, change human nature, or cause the physical universe to morph into the astral plane or some other heavenly region.

Gospel of Thomas, Saying 3: Yeshua said, “If your leaders say to you, ‘Look, the (Father’s) Kingdom is in the sky,’ then the birds of the sky will get there before you do. If they say to you, ‘It is in the sea,’ then the fish will arrive there first. Rather, the (Father’s) Kingdom is within you and it is outside of you."

There is a similar passage in the Gospel of Mary Magdalene, another Nag Hammadi or Gnostic Gospel: “When the Blessed One had said this, He greeted them all, saying, ‘Peace be with you. Receive my peace to yourselves. Beware that no one lead you astray, saying, “Lo here!” or “Lo there!” for the Son of Man [Seed of Humanity] is within you. Follow after Him! Those who seek Him will find Him.’” This represents a school of thought that had a very different way of looking at the nature of Reality. The Gnostic gospels present a present-tense Kingdom of God or spiritual Reality which can be seen, heard and accessed in the living present. Prophecy speculation is portrayed as one of many illusions, diversions and pastimes of humanity that needs to be overcome so people might move on to seeking the real Kingdom of God or spiritual dimensions that are already available to us, like radio waves within and all around us that have the potential of being tuned into and experienced.

Those that copied and contemplated the Nag Hammadi books were monks affiliated with one of several monasteries founded by Saint Pachomius in Egypt. For them seeing the spiritual dimension was through mystical practices, chant, prayer, silent meditation leading to visions and other altered states. Not far from where the Nag Hammadi books were found are some caves used by monks during the 4th Century AD. The Nag Hammadi books remind me of Buddhism, Hinduism, and some of the teachings of the medieval mystics of Europe, Hildegarde of Bingen, Meister Eckhart, Jacob Boehme and many others who reinvented some of the same ideas and meditation techniques later in history, a mystical approach of seeing the “Unseen” spiritual part of the spectrum.

Conintued on Page 40 August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 31

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The Imagined Apocalypse False Prophets Making Profits It’s the end of the world... again? Don’t you just hate it when that happens?!

I have this old book on “end times” prophecy written back in the 1920’s, which is quite revealing and informative about the psychology of prophecy. Some things never change, and that includes the end of the world!

That book actually shows a black and white photo of a locomotive steam engine with a caption underneath containing a quote from the Hebrew Book of Daniel: “Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.” Other illustrations include a sketch of a guy on a horse looking up at the sky, watching a meteor shower, with the caption reading: The Falling Stars, November 13th, 1833. “The stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.” (Book of Revelation 6: 13) Another image titled, “The Battle of Armageddon,” depicts soldiers on horses fighting each other with swords as World War One era biplanes dogfight overhead.

Now I understand. Some “need” to always be fearing a second coming or apocalypse happening “within ten years or so.” It helps motivate them to follow their religion. Like the bumper sticker says, “Look Busy... Jesus Is Coming!”

In 1999 many were writing about a quatrain of Nostradamus predicting big stuff happening in the sky, one of the few actual dates mentioned by Nostradamus in fact. At the time, this seemed important. Things indeed looked pretty ominous, and yet... nothing. So, what did the Y2K prophecy hucksters do when their prophecy predictions fell flat, when they were proved to be utterly, totally, completely wrong? Same as always, they pretended that everything was fine and simply set their sights upon a new date: 2012, and commenced writing books about that. Game over, and a new game begins. Fascinating, isn’t it? Thus, I conclude that prophecy is not about predicting the future, but manipulating people and making a buck here in the present.

Others expressed disappointment when the world did not come to an end. Oh well.

We get to live and complain yet another day. Yay!!!!

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A New Tool for Our Time~ Life Between Life Spiritual Regression

by Amy Leshure Brehm

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he awakening of consciousness is appearing all around us, more so than ever before. It is a general consensus among regression therapists (of which I am one) that the veil between the spirit world and our physical world is thinning. As more and more of those around us are awakening, a new powerful tool has come available from the research of Dr. Michael Newton in the form of Life Between Life Spiritual Regression (LBL).

HISTORY OF LBL

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Dr. Newton, a self-described skeptic, discovered LBL Spiritual Regression quite by accident. As a psychologist practicing hypnotherapy in the 70’s, he was regressing a client to find the source of an undiagnosible abdominal pain when the client suddenly found himself being bayoneted in the stomach during a WWII battle in France. (This phenomenon of clients slipping into past life scenarios has been reported by a number of clinical psychologists practicing hypnotherapeutic regression). Dr. Newton’s most important discovery came soon after while regressing a middle-aged woman. She had been complaining of feelings of isolation and during the session, jumped into the intra-life space exclaiming that she was with her soul group now and that no one had incarnated with her – this was the cause of her loneliness. Upon reviewing recordings of the session, Dr. Newton realized the client had achieved superconsciousness and was reporting back from the soul state. Having found no literature on connecting to this intra-life state, Dr. Newton set out to create the methods we now use in LBL work today.

relationship information to avoid interference with the person’s free will as many major life decisions may not yet been made).

More information along with case studies can be found in Dr. Michael Newton’s first book, Journey of Souls and Bringing Your Soul to Light by Dr. Linda Backman.

Amy Leshure Brehm is a Certified Hypnotherapist specializing in Past Life therapy, LBL Spiritual Regression and Neurosis. She is currently working on her second book Getting Over Yourself- Keys to Bridging the Nonphysical and Physical You. Her practice is located in beautiful Midcoast Maine. She can be reached at leshure@gmail.com.

Newton began regressing clients of various backgrounds and beliefs and found that when guided into the superconscious state, they described the afterlife in remarkably similar ways with uniform characteristics and processes. Some of the common events people encounter are: meetings with guides, reunions with soul groups, Akashic record reviews including multiple past lives, and next life selection processes.

HOW LBL WORKS The therapeutic ramifications of LBL work are enormous. Past life influences affect us in a myriad of ways from the emotional to the behavioral and physical.

Traditional talk therapy can be effective and is in no way discounted here, but even Freud at the end of his career stated, because of its efficiency, hypnotherapy is the key for helping people. In simplest terms hypnosis is a guided relaxation that has the client changing their predominant brain wave state from one of awake consciousness (Beta wave state) to a light meditative state (Alfa brain wave state) that is the door to the subconscious and past life recall. Our brain naturally cycles down this way each night as we go to sleep so it is a completely normal, daily process. LBL work takes this one step further and has the client going into a deep meditative state to access the superconscious (the Theta brain wave state, right before sleep) where all our spiritual memory and perhaps the soul itself, lives.

As a psychotherapeutic tool, this is priceless. After sessions, clients come away with conscious knowledge of their immortality as a soul and often with a renewed understanding of their life purpose, their personal issues and the relationship dynamics with those around them. More importantly, clients experience the deep sense of love and support from their guides and the higher realms, which in itself, is truly life affirming.

That I am biased and feel most would benefit greatly from an LBL session is obvious; it is a potent tool that deepens understanding of one’s core self.

Who wouldn’t want “now” time access to their higher selves? Those who would be of greatest benefit, however, are those dealing with questions on life direction, relationship issues, and grief from loss and phobias. While in the superconscious state, most questions are answered from the broad view of the soul and/or from assistance from guides and one’s wise council. This work is especially relevant today as many of us are moving from one-size-fits-all religious doctrines to an individualized spiritual journey underpinned by the interconnectedness of all that is.

LBL sessions are not recommended for those with borderline personality disorders, and those under 30 years of age (as guides usually block karmic and 32 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

"There's nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be..." ...John Lennon

33

INNER TAPESTRY's Directory of Resources

Holistic Practitioners, Products and Resources Each category contains practitioners from various states. a l t e r n a t i v e livin g

counseling & the rapy -cont.

Maine Greensward Hamlet

Alternative Living ................................................. page 33 Counseling & Therapy ................................... pages 33-34 Creative Healing Arts ........................................... page 34 Evolutionary Consciousness................................. page 35 Holistic Healing Centers ...................................... page 35 Holistic Publications & Radio ............................... page 35 Hypnotherapy ...................................................... page 35 Integrative Healing .............................................. page 36 Life Mastery ......................................................... page 37 Living Spaces ...................................................... page 37 Meditation ............................................................ page 38 Psychic & Spiritual Mediumship ........................... page 38 Reflexology & Healing Massage .......................... page 38 Retreats ......................................................... pages 38-39 Schools & Trainings ............................................. page 39 Shamanic Healing ......................................... pages 39-40 Writing Services.................................................... page 40 Yoga, Tai Chi & Meditation ................................... page 41

Maine

Greensward Hamlet A Cohousing Community In Buxton, Maine Drawing on the Strength of Community To Live Sustainably.

your place in the community now. Visit www.greenswardhamlet.com or www.cohousing.org. Or contact: Françoise Paradis, Ed.D. PO Box 1325, Saco, Me 04072 (207) 227-3678.

Holistic Psychotherapy & Spiritual Development Work "When we are fully present to ourselves the light of who we are shines through and like a slow deep breath, fills the world with love." -PB

In over twenty-five years of experience I have merged a variety of psychological, sensate awareness, spiritual and creative practices into a process of deep awakening that can help you heal trauma, addictions and depression, rediscover meaning and purpose in life, build mutually empowering relationships, enhance creativity and embrace the deep stillness of being from within in which all experience arises. I have been deeply engaged in my own inner work for over twenty years and call upon my extensive training in spiritual and transformational practices to guide my work with others. I offer individual, group and couples consultation, personal intensives, workshops, supervision and training. Offices in West Baldwin & Yarmouth, ME, (207) 625-7012, pab@patriciaburke.com, www.patriciaburke.com.

cou ns e l i ng & t h e r apy Connecticut Introspective Psychotherapy & Life Counseling

Live From Your Center

Licensed Professional Counselor

Mark Nakell, LCPC

Jim Govoni

M.A.Ed., S.Y.C., R.Y.T., L.P.C.

"There is a crack, a crack in everything, that' s how the light gets in, That's how the light gets in." ...Leonard Cohen

The seed for growth is often in our shadow self and addressing what hides inside us can be knowingly and unconsciously scary. The therapeutic process necessitates a willingness to address acceptance of our shadow, embrace the totality of who we are and to make change, if necessary.

I promise to provide you with the safe harbor of objectivity, warmth, respect, honesty, empathy and positive regard to explore the issues you wish to bring forth. Remember your Life has its own Story to tell and the right to be heard.

The telling of your Story may be done in the security and convenience of your home or at my home/office.

Licensed Professional Counselor Since 1994. Professional Affiliations: Connecticut Association For Jungian Psychology (Board Member) Connecticut Counseling Association Connecticut Mental Health Counseling Association Yoga Alliance-Registered Yoga Teacher 17 Parker Road, Marlborough, CT 06447, (860) 295-6491 or email:jagovoni@comcast.net

Awareness-based Psychotherapy Growth and Self-Realization Individual & Couples Counseling All of life happens in the present moment: Our natural condition is an

open awareness of each moment as it occurs. Increased awareness of this moment—now—and of yourself in the moment, provides an increased experience of life, more joy, and greater fulfillment. Developing the capacity of your own center enables a deeper, more immediate experience of your aliveness and presence now. The result is increased freedom—freedom of choice, freedom of action, freedom of purpose—and deepened participation in the events of your own life. For a FREE introductory session, call (207) 773-4413 or email mnakell@openawareness.com, 25 Middle Street, Portland, ME 04101. Further information can be found at www.openawareness.com.

"A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving." ...Lao Tzu

August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 33

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Maine’s first Green, fossil free, cohousing community is nestled on 30 private country acres. Your 1-, 2-, or 3- bedroom home (& 1- or 2- car garage) will include the amenities of a spacious Common House for weekly community meals & gatherings; organic community gardens and nature trails. Access to the Saco River and hundreds of acres of pristine park land is within walking distance.

Train and international airport services are just a 15-minute drive. Reserve

Patricia A. Burke, MSW, LCSW

34 co u n s e l i ng & t h e rapy- c o n t .

What is somatic therapy?

Somatic therapy is a self-awareness process with a particular focus on the body. With guided practice to help you remain present in the body, you simply allow thoughts, emotions and sensations to emerge in their natural patterns. This combination – conscious awareness and observation of patterns – allows both increased capability of self-regulation and expanded capacity for awareness itself. Current brain research shows that the part of the brain involved in awareness also regulates emotions and behavior. So practice Douglas Smith of focused awareness actually strengthens and expands the brain cell connections in this area, making the benefit of this work cumulative. The difference between this and mindfulness practice alone is that you also have access to somatic, or body reactions. These come under conscious awareness, creating the possibility of physical as well as emotional healing. Somatic therapy is useful for the resolution of stress and trauma, anxiety, depression, habits, addictions, "stuck" patterns, or can be used to enhance personal growth. For an appointment or more information please call, email or visit me on the web at www.mindmeetsbody.com.

Douglas Smith, LCPC, SEP., 440 Forest Avenue, Portland, ME 04101 (207) 329-3566, smith@mindmeetsbody.com.

creative healing arts Maine Art Therapy & Shamanism

Susan Bakaley Marshall, ATR-BC, LCPC Art therapy is a dynamic combination—powerful artistic creation with the insight of psychotherapy.

Art therapy and shamanic counselling will help you cultivate your strengths like a gardener tending plants.

Together we can use imagination to design the garden.

We can learn to tell flowers from weeds when your spirit is overgrown. Then we can plant seeds, nurture and water them and reap a new harvest. Everyone has an artist within. Our spirit and soul speak through the artwork. The art never lies; it gently reflects back those areas of life that need our attention, promoting positive change and healing on all levels.

The best way to walk into your future is to create it! Board Certified Art Therapist, Licensed Clinical Counselor, Shamanic Practitioner with over thirty years experience. The Thirteenth Moon Center, "ART from the heART," www.thirteenthmooncenter.net, (207) 589-3063. moonarts@gmail.com.

Surry Music Therapy Center: Alan Wittenberg M.A., CMT

Gestalt Your Life Angela Hassenpflug Personal Developement Body-Mind Life Coaching Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

Gestalt Work This experiential and body-oriented approach supports you to

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reconnect with your body, its language and wisdom reinforce your strengths, passions and skills learn to relax, reduce stress and practice being fully present enhance your relationships, both with yourself and others make sustainable life changes happen

Dynamic life coaching tools combined with Gestalt Therapy elements and Mindfulness techniques are the foundation of this approach. We can meet in person or on the phone. Groups offered on a regular basis. Call (207) 592-7888 or email angela@gestaltyourlife.com for more information and to set up a free introductory call. www.gestaltyourlife.com.

Healing for Addictions Are you ready to make a profound transformation from addiction to fully engaged living?

Based on feminist and Buddhist principles, our programs focus on building a life of long-term, sustainable recovery by addressing the fundamental human need for relationship and genuine intimacy – the basis of well-being.

FirstSteps™ is an intensive outpatient program that includes meditation, detoxification, acupuncture, and bodywork therapies. Participants meet in small, confidential groups three evenings a week for eight weeks.

Footpath to Recovery™ is a two-week journey along Maine’s Hundred-Mile Wilderness section of the Appalachian Trail. Rather than dwelling on pathology, the focus is on restoring health and balance. For further information or to schedule a free evaluation, please contact: Peter Wohl, MA, LADC, CCS, Innovations in Recovery, (207) 619-2989, www.innovationsinrecovery.com.

Di recto r y of R es ourc e s $375 for 1 year Print & Online Listing with an active link to your website!

Includes 2.8 inch ad space, (approximately 130 words) Initial set-up fee $20 34 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

Certified Music Therapist, (AMTA) American Music Therapy Association Music therapy opens new channels of communication and contact through the creative and interactive use of music towards self-expression and self-discovery. It goes beyond

words and emotionally, physically, and intellectually touches those with psychological issues and special needs. Music Therapy is a dynamic clinical, educational, developmental and rehabilitative treatment approach. Alan specializes in autism spectrum disorders, emotional and behavioral issues, speech and sensory integrative delays, as well as work with the elderly and Alzheimer’s.The Surry Music Therapy Center is a unique facility in Maine offering individual and small group sessions, seminars, conferences, in-service training and workshop programs throughout Maine.

Contact Alan Wittenberg at (207) 667-1308, alan@surrymusictherapy.com.

Visit www.surrymusictherapy.com for seminar and conference information.

Vermont LEDGE END RETREAT & NATURE HEALING CENTER At Ledge End we offer private and group retreats to enable you to reconnect with yourself, your breath and the natural world.

Primary practice at Ledge End is based on the principles of Zen Yoga. Zen Yoga blends Tai Chi, Yoga, meditation and Qigong together to encourage energy flow through the body. Programs include day workshops, classes and weekend retreats. We customize our programs to meet the needs of each group or individual. Set on 150 acres of pristine woodland and rock ledge, we offer the opportunity to withdraw from the busy world and cultivate an inner space. In addition to our Zen Yoga Instructor Training Program, we also offer a 12-week online course that provides time honored spiritual teachings designed to assist anyone on their personal journey of self-discovery. For more information: Phone: (802) 685-4448, Email breathe@artofzenyoga.com, Website: www.artofzenyoga.com

Online listing (without print copy) with an active link to your website. $100 plus an Initial set-up fee of $20

Call 207-799-7995 or 203-779-0345 email: info@innertapestry.org

35 evolutionary consciousness

holistic publications & radio

M a i ne The Autognomics Institute since 1992 Norm and Skye Hirst co-founders Transcendental Autognomics (TA); going beyond scientific materialism to discover the emergent epi-principles within lifeitself... doing science the old fashion way.

TA; New Field of Life-Energy and Transcendental Science/Philosophy is based on emergent epi-energy principles now being discovered throughout the Autognomics Research Community and Alliance. The mystery/the miraculous/ the wisdom of life-itself is revealing herself. To receive our email newsletter on how latest revelations are impacting us all, visit us at www.autognomics.org or join us on Twitter @autognomics for frequent tips and insights plus see who we are following. Co-founders – Norm and Skye Hirst, PhD.

Main e WRFR-LP is all-volunteer community radio, on the air at 93.3 FM in Rockland and 99.3 FM in Camden, and streaming world-wide at www.wrfr.org.

We offer a wide selection of live and recorded music, and a wide variety of talk shows. Music genres include jazz, old time swing, classical, country, folk, Celtic, South Seas exotica, classic rock, heavy metal, Broadway tunes, and more. Many shows feature live music with local guests. Talk shows range from news and public affairs discussions to live tarot readings, and often include live interviews and telephone call-ins.

The station is supported by listener contributions and by business sponsors.

Contact Jo Lindsay, volunteer coordinator, to learn more about how you can participate: info@wrfr.org. Contact Ananur Forma, sales manager, to learn more about business sponsorship: (207) 594-2565 WRFR's studios are located at 20 Gay Street, Rockland, Maine 04841.

You are invited to stop by.

holistic healing centers

Allan Holender, PWRN's Executive Producer, founder and longtime radio veteran says, "Positive World

M a i ne Gardens of Atlantis Healing Arts Center yourself, to Peace and Tranquility. Make time to let go of the tasks of the day and just be in the moment. Sit on the wrap-around porch, watch lazy river flow, the hummingbirds and dragonflies play! Shop for a unique gift for yourself or loved one. Take an awakening class, or book a pain relieving, transformative massage. And you must come to our Annual Healing Arts Festival August 21st! We’re here just for You!

PWRN provides transformational and educational programs that inspire and empower individuals, organizations, and institutions to move from a world of fear, consumption, and scarcity, to a world of Abundance, sustainability, and generosity." Allan also wrote the book, Zentrepreneurism A Twenty-First Century Guide to the New World of Business. The basic message of the book is about creating a new business paradigm of purpose, passion, and profits with integrity. Allan says; "Our intention is to make PWRN the premiere destination for intelligent conversation, world class music, and cool jazz!" www.PWRNRadio.com

(207) 929-5088, www.gardensofatlantis.org.

hypnotherapy

Main e

AWAKE: We are a co-working community space in support of awakening.

We offer massage, healing arts, yoga, dance, workshops and events to support you in your self-realization. Membership: To support you in receiving consistent bodywork, we offer a membership-based discount program. With a basic membership, sessions are only $40 per hour and with a full membership sessions are only $35 per hour. Our regular price is $50 per hour. Ecstatic Dance: Every Sunday 10:00am-12:00pm we offer open DJ’ed dance space. We also offer monthly family dance and Friday night dance. Yoga: By fall 2011 we will be offering a full selection of yoga and fitness classes. Rentals: We rent all of our treatment rooms by the hour, part, or full-time. You can also rent the movement studio for your class, workshop, or event. Practitioner Memberships: Share in our marketing efforts and join our growing community of practitioners who support people in their evolution. www.theawakecollective.com info@theawakecollective.com (207) 318-1931 509 Forest Ave, Portland Maine Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, & LinkedIn

HypnoWave Hypnosis Training Center Ernest VanDenBossche, BCH, CI - Director Is it time for a change? Let hypnosis work for you in so

many ways. Become a Consulting Hypnotist. Training with Ernest VanDenBossche, Board Certified Hypnotherapist and Certified Instructor with the National Guild of Hypnotists (ngh.net), President Maine Guild of Hypnotists. Take the NGH “Consulting Hypnotist” Certification Training, 100-hour course. Be a Certified Hypnotist.

Learn – What is Hypnosis, Trance Depth Testing, Hypnotizability and Suggestibility, Rapid Inductions, Mind/Body Relaxation, Self-Hypnosis, Goal Development, Smoking Cessation, Weight Management, Stress Management, Pain Management, Age Regression, Reframing Trauma, Ethics for Professional Hypnotists, create customized scripts, and CDs for your clients. You get: NGH Manuals, One Year NGH Membership, Local and International support by other professional hypnotists, supervised in-class practice time to master your techniques quickly, informational Hypnosis CD ROM, and CDs and DVDs for your business. Call: (207) 453-6133, www.hypnotraining.us. Private consulting and other trainings available.

Directory of Resources Listings are easy to compose.

Write as though you are speaking to others about the work you do and the services you offer.

For more information call: (207) 799-7995/(203) 779-0345 or email: info@innertapestry.org August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 35

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You have arrived at a Special Destination when you come to Gardens of Atlantis. You’ve come Home to

Radio is a voice for those seeking an environmentally sustainable, spiritually fulfilling and socially just human presence on Planet Earth.

36 integrative healing Connecticut

Belanger Physical Therapy A neck or back doesn't walk into the office, a whole person does and all their history as well. What we do not

choose to express emotionally will show itself in our bodies through tension, pain, illness and/or dis-ease. Joe invites his clients to welcome and feel, in order to transition, the walls that keep each of us from expressing our authentic selves in the world. Everything you need for what you really desire in your life is right in front of you. All you have to do is surrender to feel what is there. Joe chooses to support people physically, emotionally and energetically through manual therapy (cranial, muscle energy, functional technique, myofascial release), a deep belief in osteopathic philosophy, and heart.

Marlborough, CT (860) 295-0572, or e-mail Joe at joeb.pt@snet.net.

Connecticut & Maine

Ron and Joan

integrative healing–cont.

Lilysongbird Healing Jewelry, Sunsets & Flowers, etc.

A Healing Session includes, Reiki, Integrated Energy

Therapy, Stones & Crystals, Chakra Balancing, Angel Work, Mediumship, Psychic Messages, Animal Guides, Flower Guides, Cord-Cutting. It is followed by a reading and write-up.

Selling many stones and crystals in the office location and at outside events. Jewelry is made from beaded stones for their healing properties and is available in gold-filled & sterling silver. Earrings, Bracelets, Pendants/Necklaces.

Photos are derived intuitively. Available in greeting cards, matted & framed prints.

Learn Reiki and help yourself and others kickstart your body's ability to help heal itself. Now teaching all levels including Master/Teacher.

I am now teaching Integrated Energy Therapy as an IET Master./Instructor Fern Dyer, Reiki/Master Teacher, IET Master/Instructor Call (207) 415-8638, fdyer@maine.rr.com, www.lilysongbird.com Located in Portland.

Are You Listening? Through the challenges of our lives

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we are being asked to release what no longer serves us; to expand, living with an open mind and heart. Are You Willing? To embody the Truth of living your life as love in action. Ron and Joan support people to live the highest/greatest vision of themselves. Living Visions is a method of support that deepens levels of calm and joy, releasing the causes of emotional and physical trauma, which increases awareness of your true center and grounding. Living Visions is a way of realizing perfect union with one's self.

If you are interested in exploring how we may be able to support you please visit www.ronandjoan.com, or call us at (203) 779-0345 with questions or for more information. Sessions and groups available in Connecticut and Maine (call Leapin' Lizards for schedule in ME (207) 865-0900)

"There is more hunger for Love and Acceptance in the world today than there is for bread." (Mother Teresa).

Susan Ortiz, MD Board Certified Physical Medicine & Pain Medicine Medical Acupuncture & Energy Medicine Mind-Body Medicine Are you living up to your full potential? Do you have

symptoms that keep you from feeling peace? Have you been discouraged after seeking out the usual medical treatments? The most effective medicine is that which honors your unique essence while allowing for the integration of your mind and body. That is where the transformation begins.

Stillpoint Rehabilitation & Wellness, 15 State St., Bangor, ME 04401.

Stillptrehab@gmail.com, (207) 990-2934, www.stillpointrehab.com.

M a i ne Roberta Barnes, CHT, Gendai Reiki-ho & Komyo Reiki Shihan (teacher/master) & Herbalist

“Secret to Health and Happiness,” is what Mikao Usui said of his spiritual practice to bring balance & harmony to mind/ body/spirit. Japanese styles of Usui Reiki

go beyond hands-on healing to help improve the quality of your life and the lives around you. Roberta R. Barnes, CHT, Gendai Reikiho & Komyo Reiki Shihan (master teacher) & Herbalist, teaches how to let go, connect with love and harmony. Roberta has practiced natural healing for over 30 years and one of her Shihans is a member of the Usui Reiki Ryoho Gakkai. Nestled in a wildlife habitat, Natural Healing & Learning Center is the perfect environment to reflect the healing essence of Usui Reiki. In this harmonizing relaxing atmosphere you can – *complete one of 5 levels or enjoy healing sessions in Japanese Usui Reiki, *learn meditation, *go on a meditative journey into your past, and *receive herb consultations. Two of Roberta's original guided meditations are available on the CD “Finding Your Solutions.” For more information on classes and healing sessions call (207) 445-5671 or visit www.naturalhealinglearning.com.

"How nice--to feel nothing, and still get full credit for being alive." ...Kurt Vonnegut

Massachusetts

intuitive HEALING

"As a healer, I work with individuals in a way that consciously promotes a peaceful and healthy planet. Our

healing work takes place despite the conflicts that wash over us in our daily lives. By healing ourselves we create Wendy Marks changes that have a ripple effect on M.Ed, C.A.S.,FAPA the world around us." I offer Medical Intuitive sessions, energy healing and integrative therapy. With 30 years of experience in traditional and complementary healthcare, I am here to improve your physical, mental and spiritual health. I work with adults to develop and hone their own intuitive skills. www.wendymarks.com (781) 449-5368, wlm922@wendymarks.com.

Peaceful Energies Balance your Energetic Body, Physical Body, Emotions and Spirit As a certified MCKS Pranic Healer, I balance your body’s energetic system by intuitively sensing and removing stagnant, diseased energy and strengthening depleted energy with specific healing frequencies and techniques. All aspects of your being are treated: energetic,

physical, emotional, and spiritual. Treatment sessions offer blissful stress relief, alleviation of pain, and support in the healing of acute and chronic health complaints. Treatments are equally effective in person and at a distance. No distance is too far to receive a totally effective treatment. Pranic healing supports traditional and alternative healing methods. Contact: Miriam Smith at mgsenergy@comcast.net or (978) 683-6129. www.PranicHealingNE.com.

36 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

37 life mastery -cont.

life mastery Maine

Jen Deraspe, MS

Ocean of Possibilities Life Coaching Deborah Bergeron, CPCC, Certified Life Coach, Prosperity Guide

Create an intentional life… Consider what it would be like to live life fully and authentically, experiencing love, prosperity, ease, freedom and fun.

In our work together, you will learn to break through limiting paradigms and create a dynamic vision for your life – a vision that can pave the way to living your greatest potential and sharing your gifts with the world. By weaving in successful coaching principals and the Law of Attraction, you will be guided to access your inner wisdom, to get clear on what you want in your life and learn the tools that will support you in having it. Every journey truly starts with a single step. When you are ready to embark on your mission of life, I would be honored to walk with you. For a complimentary coaching session or schedule of workshops call (207) 797-9007 or email: debcoaches@aol.com.

Phone sessions available. www.oceanofpossibilities.com.

Certified Coach; The Institute for The Work, Holistic Personal Trainer, Retreat Facilitator I spent my life searching for truth and happiness outside of myself. All served me on the path, and I am

grateful. Because my seeking path was more external, I experienced only temporary relief. What ultimately led me home was the simplest of methods, The Work of Byron Katie. It is a direct, no non-sense path to personal truth, clarity and freedom held within and no teacher is required. I have been humbled and opened through my own personal inquiry into the source of my stress, fear and internal war with what is. If you are seeking sustained peace and to experience lasting wellbeing, you are invited to join me on an invigorating journey back to you. The tools used are customized for your individual plan and include The Work, Hatha yoga, meditation, holistic nutrition, lifetime fitness and wellness programming. It would be a privilege to be your guide. I am happy to offer a complimentary phone consultation if you are interested in the possibility of working together. www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929, ntnretreat@yahoo.com

living spaces Cent$ible Living Money Program for Couples and Individuals Jane Honeck, CPA, PFS Certified Empowerment Trainer

Maine

"You can't solve a problem at the same level of consciousness that created it." Albert Einstein.

Feeling Stuck? Let us:

• Clean & Vibrate your home's energy • Energetically prepare your home for sale • Clear the energy of past relationships • Balance toxic earth energies Let us support your intention for change!

For more information please visit: www.GoldenRayEnergetics.com/Clearing.php or call David Dobson and Kristine Schares at (207) 892-0221.

contact Jane at (207) 797-4100 or Jane@janehoneck.com or through her website www.janehoneck.com.

"to love life, to love it even when you have no stomach for it and everything you've held dear crumbles like burnt paper in your hands, your throat filled with the silt of it.

When grief sits with you, its tropical heat thickening the air, heavy as water more fit for gills than lungs; when grief weights you like your own flesh only more of it, an obesity of grief, you think, How can a body withstand this?

Then you hold life like a face between your palms, a plain face, no charming smile, no violet eyes, and you say, yes, I will take you I will love you, again."

Ellen Bass August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 37

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Combining 30 plus years as a CPA and Personal Financial Specialist with insight as a Certified Empowerment Trainer, I developed the Cent$ible Living Money Program. Using the concepts in my award-winning book, The Problem With Money? It’s Not About the Money! we will embark on a personal exploration of your core beliefs and how these beliefs impact your financial and life choices. Together we will build a clear picture of how and why you got to where you are financially. We'll identify your own money values and priorities, not those given to you by parents, peers, society or the media. You will arrive at a new level of consciousness moving you through a process of financial change and solving your money problems once and for all. The result? Together, we'll create your own healthy financial approach to Living. For a free 15 minute phone consultation,

38 reflexology & healing massage

meditation Maine

Sant Mat Radhaswami, The Path of the Masters The Maine Sant Mat Society presents the Enlightenment Experience as taught by Sant Sevi Ji Maharaj of Bihir, India,

a series of free lectures, meditations and satsangs around Maine facilitated by James Bean, a local representative of the Sant Mat tradition of Inner Light & Sound Meditation known as Surat Shabd Yoga, in the lineage of Tulsi Sahib.

For More Information call (207) 358-9381, or email: James@SpiritualAwakeningRadio.com, Website: www.SpiritualAwakeningRadio.com/santmat.

Maine Hands on Feet ~ Lynn Danforth, Certified Reflexologist Reflexology is a science-based, non-invasive method to rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit.

The deep relaxation found through this wonderful technique comes through the delicate manipulation of nerve centers in your feet and hands to send messages to the brain, which in turn sends the signals to the rest of your body. Many find the experience to result in a meditative, cleansing state, which can last days. Problem areas and issues are easily and gently relieved and reduced, from plantar fasciitis and arthritis to basic tension and foot pain.

Don't force yourself to stress another minute, contact Lynn today: call either (207) 767-5776 or (207) 318-0129, or visit www.handsonfeet.net.

psychic & spiritual mediumship Maine PsychicMediumship, Hypnotherapy

Bonnie Lee Gibson is a professional Psychic Medium, Hypnotherapist, Registered Counselor, Reiki Master, healer, teacher and lecturer with thirty years of experience. She

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resides in Fairfield and Northport, Maine.

Her first experience with Spirit was at the age of four. She has connected many people with loved ones who have crossed over, as well as their angels and spirit guides. Bonnie Lee communicates with pets, both here and on the spirit side. She gives spirit readings all over the world by telephone and travels in the US and Canada.

Services include: Hypnotherapy, Psychic Mediumship Readings, Gallery Readings, Workshops, Classes and Lectures, Reading Circles and Private Groups in the comfort of your home. Call (207) 453-6133, cell (207) 649-7089, spirit@bonnielee.net, www.bonnielee.net, and www.hypno.us.

retreats Maine The knowledgeable and experienced practitioners at The Wellness Center offer a full spectrum of holistic, traditional and alternative techniques.

Enjoy engaging seminars that will flex your intellect. Join a movement class to tone your heart and spirit.

Experience the skillful touch of artists sensitive to the subtle thread of muscle and mind. Freshen your outward glow from head to toe. For more information about ongoing programs, upcoming seminars and suite availability, please call (207) 465-4490 or visit us on the Wellness page at VillageSoup.com. The Wellness Center, 69 & 71 Elm Street, Camden, ME 04843.

Kat Logan

Intuitive Readings and Healing

• Intuitive Readings (personal, group, parties, phone or email) • Energy Healing (also offering... Sound, Aromatherapy & Flower Essences) • Sacred Space Design for home and garden • Dowsing and Space Clearing Intuitively aware since childhood, Kat has been offering readings and energy work for over 25 years. As a spiritual medium, empath and clairvoyant she lovingly brings the messages from the Divine Energies that are resonating with you, to assist you on your life's journey. My work is not to tell you your future but to intuitively counsel you of the many potentials that are resonating with you. You have the personal power and will to create the life you want. I want to assist you in that process. I also offer sliding scale fee schedules if money is a problem. Kat also offers other services such as Sacred Space Design, Intuitive Art Work, Medicinal Herbal Teas and Flower Essences.

For more information, please check the website: www.mygreatfullheart.com or email: kat@mygreatfullheart.com. Kat is located in Friendship, Maine. Telephone (207) 226-7446.

PWRNRADIO

Rolling Meadows, a 100 acre rural retreat center in Brooks over-looking the hills of coastal Maine, two hours north of Portland, offering silent residential retreats for the purpose of nourishing—awakening to Awareness.

Patricia Brown and Surya Chandra Das have been teaching for 30 years and are the resident teachers offering guidance in meditation, yoga and the direct path of self-inquiry. Students are supported to open and be present for whatever is arising and to recognize the ever-available nature of Presence when we are simply here as we are in each moment. Intimate small group experience. Retreats are scheduled thru the year in Maine and in the winter months in Mexico and Guatemala. www.rollingmeadowsretreat.com, (888) 666-6412.

Radio For The Intelligent Optimist

POSITIVE WORLD RADIO NETWORK – www.pwrnradio.com 38 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

39 schools & trainings-cont.

retreats-cont.

Sewall House Yoga Retreat Enjoy yoga twice daily, meditation, massage, sauna and healthy home-cooked vegetarian cuisine. Near pristine lakes

and Baxter State Park, hike, bike, swim, canoe, kayak or simply porch sit! Five days suggested, weekends, shorter and longer stays arranged. Step back into time in the comfort of this bed and breakfast style retreat listed in the National Registry of Historic Places.

Nature guide William Sewall shared the healing attributes of nature with a young Theodore Roosevelt, who restored his health from life-threatening asthma here. The tradition continues since 1997 with William Sewall's great granddaughter, yoga instructor Donna Davidge, with over 25 years experience in the healing arts, and her Swedish husband, musician and chef Kent Bonham. Experience the friendly hospitality Sewall House has always offered.

Sewall House Yoga Retreat Island Falls, Maine, www.sewallhouse.com.

(888) 235-2395 Open All Year, prearranged retreats available upon request.

This land is a living resource! The 24 blessed

“Forest Circles,” Topsham, Me.( 207) 776-3152, www.forestcircles.com.

schools & trainings Maine

Treat Your Feet

A Very Rewarding Career ~ Nurturing your physical Nervous System through reflex points found within your feet & hands.

Learn about a specific touch technique of applying pressure, using your thumb and fingers, to reflex points of the feet and hands that relate to other parts of the body.

Reflexology is credited with improving circulation and reducing body stress, which

removes blockages along the nerve pathways what we call Zones. A 250-hour certification course for School of Reflexology $3,300 to learn Reflexology and its application.

Cost includes two Reflexology chairs, all required reading books, foot, hand charts, footbath items & much more.

For a reflexology session, call Denise Johnson in Rockland at (207) 701-1028.

For more information, call Board Certified Foot & Hand Reflexologist Myra Achorn, Augusta (207) 626-FEET. Classes start in February & September, www.treatyourfeet.com.

Licensed by the State of Maine Department of Education.

For Massage Therapists and Bodyworkers Reiki I and Reiki II training offered monthly NCBTMB approved – 8 CE hours per class Learn the ancient hands-on-healing technique known as Reiki. This training is designed to inspire and teach massage therapists to integrate Reiki into their existing practice. Reiki is a powerful yet gentle therapy. Reiki has no contraindications so you will never have to turn another client away. This practical, hands-on workshop allows you to work on yourself, others, pets and animals. Reiki is essential for every massage therapist, even if you do not need continuing education hours. Register early – class size limited for individual attention. For more information on class details contact Rachel Pelletier, LMT, Kennebunk, Maine (207) 967-0035 or www.healingwaysonline.com.

“Rachel Pelletier is approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) as a continuing education Approved Provider.”

Have you ever thought about how nice it would be to treat minor ailments and injuries with safe, natural and gentle medicine, but are not sure where to start?

Have you tried using homeopathy in the past and been discouraged with the results? Or maybe you’re interested in expanding the scope of your existing practice to include more natural alternatives. Homeopathic remedies are safe, non-toxic, inexpensive, ecologically sustainable and available without prescription.

At Baylight Homeopathy Courses in Portland we offer two types of educational opportunities. The first is a one-year course, Introduction to Homeopathy, for the individual interested in learning how to use homeopathic remedies for first aid and acute illness. The second is a comprehensive four-year program for the student who wishes to become a Homeopathic Practitioner. Please call us at (207) 774-4244, or visit us on the web at www.baylighthomeopathy.com for more details, and to find out how to register for fall classes.

shamanic healing Maine Spirit Passages Allie Knowlton, MSW, DCSW & Evelyn Rysdyk Spirit Passages is the partnership of nationally recognized shamanic teacher/healers, Evelyn C. Rysdyk, author of Modern Shamanic Living: New Explorations of an Ancient Path and C. Allie Knowlton, MSW, DCSW. Whether through powerful heart-to-heart contact with individual patients or with workshop groups and conference participants—Evelyn’s & Allie’s extensive experience ensures you of safe shamanic healing encounters, as well as opportunities to train in shamanism with confidence. They are committed to help you increase your personal power, feel your intrinsic sacredness and expand your connections to All That Is! www.spiritpassages.com.

You can't just plan a moment when things get back on track, just as you can't plan the moment you lose your way in the first place." ... Sarah Dessen August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 39

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acres on which “Forest Circles” is located continues to provide visitors with uniquely personal mystical experiences. Overnight solo retreats in the forest are popular. Come for a gathering in a peaceful inside space, a program around the sacred fire pit or a walk. All are invited to experience this parcel of Earth that is eager to communicate and teach you how to find your way back to your heart. At Forest Circles we offer programs which include: multi-cultural spiritual ceremonies, classes for enhancing one’s connection to Earth and inner self, solo and group retreats, classes on native medicinal plants and children’s programs. Strongheart Healing with Regina Strongheart is featured at the retreat center. Self-Retrieval” is a technique developed by Regina that helps you reclaim your personal power and peace. Using healing energy, shamanic journeying and medical intuition, Regina will assist you in finding health and peace. Regina Strongheart has an MA in education from UNH and experiences including 29 years teaching high school chemistry, 8 years in the medical field and 14 years as a spiritual healer and teacher. She is the owner of

Healing Ways of Kennebunk Reiki Certification Classes

40 shamanic healing D O R Y C OTE

writing services

…Follow the Path to Your Own True Essence. At

the core of my shamanic healing practice is the belief that we have the capacity to be whole, stable and functioning at our highest potential. My healing space is safe, quiet and nourishing. I regularly perform soul retrievals, communicate with the spirits of deceased loved ones and facilitate healing the numerous wounds of life in the 21st century. I have completed a Three-Year The Center for Program in Advanced Shamanism and Shamanic Earth Light Healing Healing with the Foundation for Shamanic Studies and other intensive trainings, including experiences with indigenous shamans from around the world. I graduated from a Two-Year Teacher Training Program with world-renowned shaman, Sandra Ingerman.

I work with adults, couples, animals & specialize in working with gifted, autistic, aspergers, sensitive and ADHD children.

Please see my workshop schedule or make an appointment at www.earthlighthealing.com, email me at dory@dorycote.com, or call (207) 841-1215.

Pacha Works

Holding New Possibilities.

Working with traditional shamanistic practices for healing.

Eva Rose Goetz, director

"Healing is a collaboration. I love working with people privately or with groups. By working together we remove energies that may be in the way of our coming into wholeness and balance." Eva Rose Goetz: BFA University of Texas

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at Austin, MS Ed. Bank Street College NYC, Medicine Wheel Training with Alberto Villoldo, Ph.D. and Lisa Summerlott. Certified In Light Body Medicine with Alberto Villoldo, Ph.D. Core Shamanism with Evelyn Rysdyk and Allie Knowlton. Eva gratefully continues her studies with indigenous medicine people in Peru, New Mexico, Canada, Africa and Mexico. Eva hosts workshops, leads ceremonies and has a private Shamanic Energy Practice in Falmouth, Maine. A new 16-month course in beginning Shamanism begins June 2011. More information about classes, private sessions, or ceremonies can be found at www.pachaworks.com or contact Eva directly at (207) 756-0488. "When working with intention

and holding the blessed energy of gratitude, with spirit's help, energy moves.

A door opens and new possibilities are now available."

Connecticut

Grow Your Business You need professionally written advertorials, ads, interviews, reviews and web content that align who you are and what you do with your target audience.

A professional writer saves you time and gets you and your business in print.

Ghostwriting: articles, books, columns, advertorials and more Freelance Work: feature articles, interviews, book reviews, web content Coaching: guidance and insight for your own writing Published in local, regional and national print and digital media Portfolio: www.KarenMRider.com Email: KarenMRider@comcast.net

phone: (860) 638-8140

Maine

The Village Scribe The Wellness Center, Camden, Maine

207.344.7070

TheVillageScribe@hotmail.com

Communicate your authentic message.

Writing and Editing services for the Creative and Holistic communities.

Original Copy for: Ads ~ Business cards ~ Brochures Articles ~ Memoirs ~ Websites Writing Workshops Creative Writing ~ Memoir ~ Mythic Structure Ducktrap Writers' Round Table ~ Supporting writers in their craft.

Camden Public Library, third Sundays, 2:00pm-4:00pm $15.

Custom crafted words that represent who you are and what you do.

Continued from page 31 ~ exploring the world religions ~ Apocalypse...

Through contemplative meditation within, the mystics of each generation have successfully found their Kingdom of God and “second coming”. They have experienced the rapture and bliss of spiritual exploration. They found this Reality, not by looking at dates on calendars, but by looking within.

Real Apocalypse One Second After the Lights Go Out From reading my thoughts above, you might think my view is that there’s no need to worry about things going terribly wrong in the future, but not so fast. There are some civilization busting scenarios that really could cause the end of the world, or come quite close. And I’m not addressing here an accidental nuclear exchange or climate change, though of course those are most definitely on the list.

We are worshipers of electricity generated by power stations. Computers, grocery stores, food, refrigeration, transportation, banking, the economy, water, and cell phones all rely upon a fragile power grid, networks of circuitry, resistors, transistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes, and microprocessors, through which electric current flows and our lives depend. We are hanging by a thin thread of copper wire and don’t realize just how vulnerable we really are.

We’ve all experienced the occasional power outage, and a few have gone without electricity for several days due to larger weather events such as ice storms or hurricanes. What if the power grid was taken down, not for hours or days, but for months or even years, perhaps even for the rest of our lives? What if an event burnt out the millions of electronic circuits and devices that we rely upon to keep the power flowing, and we have no way of replacing them all if we need to? Is it like instantly being transported back in time to 1776? Well, not exactly! In 1776, people 40 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

grew their own food and had access to water. There was a functioning society. In North America, the day the lights go out and never come back, unfortunately for most, this would soon mean the end of the world. No money. No transportation.

No stores. No food. No water. No civilization.

What could fry the electronics and power grids of the world? What could destroy all electronic devices, rendering them totally useless? What could, in a flash, bring our world to a swift end? To learn more, Google: “The Carrington Event”, also “Electromagnetic Pulse” (“EMP”).

As of late, we’ve been told that the sun is in a “hibernation” period of low flare and sunspot activity. If so, this will not slow down climate disruption (global heating) but, if we luck out and the sun is especially peaceful over the next couple of decades, and if major hostilities don’t break out between nations, perhaps this could buy humanity enough time to transition to better ways of generating electricity, to a more hardened power grid, and to electronics that are not so vulnerable to a Carrington Event, cyber or EMP attack.

At present, most are not aware of these dangers, and seem overly preoccupied by Farmville, or hopelessly lost in a vast wasteland of mind-numbing cable television.

This is an apocalypse we could prevent. And besides, there is a very long list of reasons why we need safer, more reliable, cleaner sources of energy. We are not there yet, but at the moment, we do have the power to fix this. May the light of civilization keep shining.

James Bean interviews guests, reviews books and music for HealthyLife.

Net Positive Talk Radio and other stations via a syndicated radio program called Spiritual Awakening, and teaches Sant Mat Meditation and Surat Shabd Yoga in the Bangor, Waterville, & Portland areas. Address questions or comments to James@SpiritualAwakeningRadio.com, (207) 358-9381.

41

Yoga ~ T'ai Chi ~ Meditation-cont.

Yoga, T'ai Chi & Meditation Listings Six issues in print costs $160 for 35 words plus logo.

Online placement in the Directory of Resources with a direct link to your website for an additional $75.

Please call: (207) 799-7995 / (203) 779-0345 or Email: info@innertapestry.org.

Yoga ~ T'ai Chi ~ Meditation Connecticut

Radiant Yoga Offering all level group classes, private sessions, workshops and yoga hikes. Classes are a blending of styles with attention to alignment, fluid movement, pranayama (breathing), and relaxation. Erin McGuire, RYT. Check us out on facebook at Radiant Yoga, CT - Life Illuminated, call (860) 267-6388 or email radiantyoga@sbcglobal.net.

Wai Nei Academy of Health What does the Tao, Chi and Traditional Chinese Medicine have to do with it? ...Everything.

Come and experience authentic, genuine Taoist healing and protective arts. Chi Kung, Tai Chi, Kung Fu, Pakua, Tung Pei, Ching I. Study ancient Taoist Cannons, learn how to heal yourself and others.

Experience a chi transmission treatment, eastern “wu” shamanic sound healing, or receive private self protection teachings. “Teaching those to teach themselves.” Do you have what it takes to “walk through the gate?” info@integrated-performance.com; (207) 839-LIVE(5483).

Midcoast Maine Wicked Good Yoga Awaken your own personal power with heart pumping Baptiste inspired power vinyasa yoga. Become lighter as you shift your energy, peeling away layers of physical, mental, and emotional toxins. Our studio (with changing rooms and showers) is conveniently located off Route 1 in Wiscasset at the Snow Squall Inn. Daily classes are all levels and drop ins are welcomed.

Massage is also available by appointment. New Baby and Me classes.

Thursday mornings 10:30am-11:30. Website: www.wickedgoodyoga.com.

We are also on Facebook or call us at (207) 882-6892.

SOUTH PORTLAND Sadhana The Meditation Center Eat, Pray, Love, Sit, Drum, Sing, Dance, Chant, Connect, Open, Smile. Come explore and experience practices that bring happiness and compassion to life. Meditation Hall Open Everyday 6:30am-9:00pm. All Welcome. For a listing of events visit our website: www.SadhanaMe.com; (207) 772-6898; info@SadhanaME.com; 100 Brickhill Ave.

GLASTONBURY Sacred Rivers Yoga Offers Yoga for Every Body, therapeutic massage and bodywork modalities, acupuncture, nutritional and herbal therapies. We are also a Yoga Alliance 200- and 500-hour registered yoga teacher training school. www.sacredriversyoga.com.

Maine

WINDHAM www.ReDefiningYogaandPilates.com In the hustle of this modern day, technologically, media manic world, there is a place of balance. Yoga, Pilates, Massage, Nutrition, Reiki and Community.

725 Roosevelt Trail, (207) 892-0964.

DENMARK, GREATER BRIDGTON LAKES REGION Nurture Through Nature's Donation Based Yoga Center Our intention is to offer the gift of yoga in a sacred space, supporting healing, restoration and healthy active movement. We offer weekly, quality classes in a beautiful, natural setting. Design your own healing yoga retreat. www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929, getaway@ntnretreats.com,.

"Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood.

Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less." ...Marie Curie

Calendar and classified listings submission deadline for October/November's Issue is September 5th Time flies don't forget!

Please send your formatted Calendar and Classified listings to info@innertapestry.org

August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 41

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EAST HAMPTON, HEBRON, MIDDLE HADDAM & MOODUS

GORHAM

42

Calendar And Classified

Guidelines And Advertising Rates Are Located on Page 45

H eart V isions

August 4th-10th Mayan Pilgrimage, Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Seven day silent retreat, amplify the authentic self. Ceremonies with Mayan Elders, maximum 4 participants each pilgrimage. www.retreatatitlan.com, email: Retreatatitlan@yahoo.com. 15 years in residence with the Maya.

August 6th, Saturday, 1:00pm-5:00pm Experience The Healing Nature Of Sound

August 26th-28th Reconnect with Nature Retreat

With Ron and Joan at Riley School, Warrentown Rd., Glen Cove Section of Rockport, $75 Our focus will be on the use of harmonics and vibrational healing to heal your mind, body, emotions and spirit with the use of gongs and alchemy crystal bowls. Reservations necessary and FMI: call Ananur Forma, (207) 594-2565 or email ananur@AstrologyWithAnanur.com.

Immerse yourself in Mother Nature. Ledge End Retreat Center is situated on 150 acres of Maple and Birch woods, spectacular rock ledges and vernal pools. Our program is grounded in the essence of Earth and Heart-based teachings, honoring the sacred nature of the external and internal. Practices include a mix of ancient Chinese, Celtic, Lakota and Eastern Shamanic traditions. Location: Ledge End Retreat Center, Vershire, Vermont. Website: www.artofzenyoga.com, (860) 805-6551.

August 6th, Saturday, 8:00am-2:00pm Authentic Yogi Living – On & Off the Mat! www.hridayahermitage.com. Cost: $55 or $65 at the door, Lunch Included, Sadhana, the Meditation Center, 100 Brickhill Ave., South Portland (207) 772-6898 or www.SadhanaMe.com.

September~Connecticut

August 10th and 24th, 6:00pm-8:00pm, Listening to your Intuition, An introductory workshop

September 16th, Friday, 7:00pm Harmonic Sound Immersion ~ With ArcSounds

with Psychic Medium, Kat Logan, 2 evenings, Leapin’ Lizards, Freeport. Fee: $80/both sessions. Call (207) 865-0900 to register. Call (207) 226-7446 for more information.

Joseph N. Goff House, 2 Barton Hill Rd., East Hampton. $20 Come immerse yourself in vibrational sound healing through the tones of Gongs and crystal bowls. Reservations necessary and FMI:call (203) 779-0345 or email joan@ronandjoan.com.

August 13th, 9:00am-3:00pm Holistic Mystic Fair ~ Auburn

with Megan Don, www.mysticpeace.com

Hilton Garden Inn, A Magical and Mystical Event! $5 Entrance Fee. Individual services priced separately. Free Workshops every half hour. Mary Alderman (207) 446-7868, http://theenchanteddragon.shutterfly.com/holisticmysticfair, holisticmysticfair@gmail.com.

May 2012 Glastonbury, England

August 13th-21st Wilderness Living Canoe Trip for Women

September 11th-17th Pilgrimage to Avila ~ Knowing Your Spiritual Self-Worth

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Experience the healing waters of the Chalice Well, bringing harmony to your well being. With Megan Don www.mysticpeace.com.

August ~ Connecticut August 7th, Sunday, 10:00am-4:00pm Reiki Level I Instructor: Carleen Wells, Reiki Master Teacher, (860) 884-3125.

Reiki is a simple, natural means to relieve stress, reduce pain and promote balance, harmony & wellness. Class will include history, principles, benefits, the chakra system, self-treatment and Level I attunement. Centerspace Wellness Studio at Meiklem Kiln Works, 46 Lebanon Rd, Bozrah, CT. $150. To Register: www.meiklemkilnworks.com or call (860) 886-8562.

August 12th, Friday, 7:00pm Harmonic Sound Immersion ~ With ArcSounds Unity Church of Hartford, 919 Ellington Rd., South Windsor. $20 Come immerse yourself in vibrational sound healing through the tones of gongs and crystal bowls. Reservations necessary and FMI: call (860) 289-8963 or email vibrations@unityhartford.org.

August 19th, Friday, 6:00pm Harmonic Sound Immersion Group With Ron and Joan at Middlesex Hospital Cancer Center Wellness Room, 536 Saybrook Rd. #280, Middletown. $20 Come immerse yourself in vibrational sound healing through the tones of gongs and crystal bowls. Reservations necessary and FMI: call (860) 358-2041 or email joan@ronandjoan.com.

August 26th, Friday, 7:00pm Harmonic Sound Immersion ~ With ArcSounds Joseph N. Goff House, 2 Barton Hill Rd., East Hampton. $20 Come immerse yourself in vibrational sound healing through the tones of Gongs and crystal bowls. Reservations necessary and FMI:call (203) 779-0345 or email joan@ronandjoan.com.

August ~ Maine August 5th, Friday, 7:00pm Harmonic Sound Immersion Group With Ron and Joan at Riley School, Warrentown Rd., Glen Cove Section of Rockport, $20 Come immerse yourself in vibrational sound healing through the tones of gongs and alchemy crystal bowls. Reservations necessary and FMI: call Ananur Forma, (207) 594-2565 or email ananur@AstrologyWithAnanur.com.

Connect to your roots in the North Maine Woods with Nurture Through Nature. Cost: Early Bird fee by June 20th: $1195 includes all meals, equipment and holistic programming. www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929.

August 19th, Friday, 7:00pm-8:30pm Toni Bergins’ Journey Dance www.journeydance.com. Suggested donation $15-10.

Sadhana, the Meditation Center, 100 Brickhill Ave., South Portland (207) 772-6898 www.SadhanaMe.com.

August 21st, Sunday, 11:00AM-4:00PM Annual Healing Arts Festival on the lawns at Gardens of Atlantis Admission is FREE! More info at www.gardensofatlantis.org (207) 929-5088.

August 21st-27th The Wisdom of the Body with Surya Chandra Das

Middlesex Hospital Cancer Center, Sponsored and Supported

by A Simple Truth. Did you know you have at least 5 extremities and not just four? Explore this fascinating manual therapy practice and expand your internal knowing on how structure, energy, emotions and “old patterning” can influence function, symptoms and illness. This is the first of three parts. The class is intended for healthcare practitioners, those aspiring to be and those open to experiencing more about themselves and wellness. For further information and/or registration, contact Joe Belanger, PT at (860) 372-8236. The investment for this weekend is $275.

September 23rd, Friday, 6:00pm Harmonic Sound Immersion Group With Ron and Joan at Middlesex Hospital Cancer Center Wellness Room, 536 Saybrook Rd. #280, Middletown. $20 Come immerse yourself in vibrational sound healing through the tones of gongs and crystal bowls. Reservations necessary and FMI: call (860) 358-2041 or email joan@ronandjoan.com.

September 28th, Wednesday "For The Health of It" Lecture:

Yoga, meditation, silence at quiet 100-acre country sanctuary in Brooks. www.rollingmeadowsretreat.com, (888) 666-6412.

Willimantic - Windham Hospital, Check website: http://www.windhamhospital.org/wh.nsf/View/IHSLectures, Bernard & Desrosier Rooms, 112 Mansfield Ave. For more information call (860) 456-6002. Time: 7:00pm-9:00pm. Cost: Free.

August 26th, Fridays, 9:00am-2:00pm Hypnosis Certification Course - Auburn

September 30th, Friday, 7:00pm Harmonic Sound Immersion ~ With ArcSounds

Train to become a Certified Consulting Hypnotist in 15 weeks.

Classes held Fridays, except November 11th, 25th, and graduating December 16th. $1950. FMI call Tanya Quarterman at (207) 754-7722 or www.beginwithinhealing.net.

Unity Church of Hartford, 919 Ellington Rd., South Windsor. $20 Come immerse yourself in vibrational sound healing through the tones of gongs and crystal bowls. Reservations necessary and FMI: call (860) 289-8963 or email vibrations@unityhartford.org.

August ~ Vermont September ~ Maine August 12th-14th Yoga & Meditation Retreat

September 2nd-5th The Undefended Heart with Surya Chandra Das

Come and take a break from stressful living and enjoy quiet seclusion with a small group of like-minded people gathered in the beautiful Green Mountains of Vermont. At Ledge End you will learn simple and powerful techniques to heal your body, replenish your energy and rediscover your innate Joy. We have numerous activities to offer, including Zen Yoga, Tai Chi, meditation and massage therapy. We will provide the tools and the space you need to break the stress cycle and tap into your inner strength, creativity and vitality. Location: Ledge End Retreat Center, Vershire, Vermont. Website: www.artofzenyoga.com, (860) 805-6551.

Yoga, meditation, silence at quiet 100-acre country sanctuary in Brooks. www.rollingmeadowsretreat.com, (888) 666-6412.

ALL EVENTS ARE LISTED ONLINE AT www.innertapestry.org

42 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

September 17th and 18th, 9:00am-5:00pm both days Cranial Sacral Philosophy and Practice, Part I

September 10th, Eight Saturdays, 10:00am-4:00pm Intuitive Mediumship Apprenticeship Program with Psychic Medium, Kat Logan. September 10th, 24th, October 8th, 22nd, November 12th, 26th, December 10th, 31st. Location: My Greatfull Heart Studio, 10 Harbor Road, Friendship, Maine. This apprenticeship program is designed for those who would like to be able to increase their skills and abilities in psychic and intuitive readings, energetic bodywork, aura and chakra readings, distance and phone readings, client relationship and business potentials of mediumship.

It is designed for those who are aware of their intuitive gifts and would like to develop them, potentially to work with others. The full program is recommended for those who are serious about working with the public but will be open to those who would like to attend one or two of the sessions.

Class size is limited so please call or email to request a registration form, early. kat@mygreatfullheart.com, 207-226-7446 www.mygreatfullheart.com, Cost: $150/ session, Full program fee: $995 (Payable monthly....work scholarships are available).

43 September 10th & 11th, 9:00am-4:00pm both days Welcome to “Shamanism: What’s it all about?”

September 23rd-25th Autumn Equinox Retreat

October 15th The I.D.E.A.L. Process For Creating A Life You Love

This workshop will be an introduction to shamanic practice.

We will examine history, practice, and students will experience and participate in basic journeying techniques. FMI-Yvonne Thibodeau, Sacred Heart of the Wolf at (207) 356-2662.

Instructors & Intermediate/Advanced Practitioners. An indepth weekend of yoga, meditation and ceremony for Zen Yoga.

Join us as we go deeper into our practice through extended meditations, deeper stretching and a sincere strengthening of the bond with Spirit. Location: Ledge End Retreat Center, Vershire, Vermont. Website: ww.artofzenyoga.com, (860) 805-6551.

(Intuit, Discern, Empower, Affirm, Live!). Module 2 of 7: Intuitive Self-Diagnosis and Introduction to EOL Root Cause Model. Life-changing, intuitive development training with Medical Intuitive and Master Healers-Teachers Sue and Aaron Singleton. Derived from proven aspects of Biology and Quantum Physics, these exclusive Energy of Life® (EOL) techniques shed new perspective on neuro-chemical responses within human biology and the interrelationship of all matter.

Learn EOL techniques to release residues of electrical stimulation, MRI, X-Ray and clear cellular memory of physical traumas, illness residues, and toxins. 9.6 contact hours, 9am-6pm, DVD available. Details: www.TheWayToBalance.com, (978) 834-0341.

September 15th-18th Got Fear???

Are you tired of the way that fears, both subtle and obvious, pervade your reality and steal away your peace? This workshop will address those fears and offer specific opportunities to step into them and through them through a powerful Inquiry process, The Work of Byron Katie. Nurture Through Nature, Denmark, Maine. www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929. $750 includes shared eco-cabin stay and all meals.

September 17th, Saturday, 7:00pm-9:30pm Tantra to Love Workshop with Robyn Vogel & Adam Bauer www.tantratolove.com. Sadhana, the Meditation Center, 100 Brickhill Ave., South Portland (207) 772-6898 or www.SadhanaMe.com.

September 23rd-25th Mid-coast Women's Retreat: Cleanse The Body ~ Celebrate The Soul Deep mind-body-spirit healing . Cost: $335 (includes Cleanse Kit) . Hallie Holland, MSW, RMT ~ (207) 751-7537 Awaken Awareness: Reiki, The Polarity Way ~ Member of Team Northrup.

September 23rd, Friday, 4:00pm Healers Social Networking & Drum Circle Sadhana, the Meditation Center, 100 Brickhill Ave., South Portland (207) 772-6898 or www.SadhanaMe.com.

September 24th & October 1st, 9:00am-4:00 both Saturdays Usui Reiki I Workshop: Learn the history of Reiki, energy and the energetic system, as well as, meditation and treatment techniques. Ample practice time. FMI- Yvonne Thibodeau, Sacred Heart of the Wolf at (207) 356-2662.

with Master Kripalu Teacher Christie Newhart Sadhana, the Meditation Center, 100 Brickhill Ave., South Portland (207) 772-6898 or www.SadhanaMe.com.

September 25th, Sunday 7:00pm-9:00pm Kirtan with Girish Sadhana, the Meditation Center, 100 Brickhill Ave., South Portland (207) 772-6898 or www.SadhanaMe.com.

September 25th-30th Look Within - Meditation & Self-Inquiry Retreat With Patricia Brown, Yoga, meditation, silence at quiet 100-acre country sanctuary in Brooks. www.rollingmeadowsretreat.com

September~Massachusetts September 17th, The I.D.E.A.L. Process For Creating A Life You Love (Intuit, Discern, Empower, Affirm, Live!). Module 1 of 7: Lifechanging, intuitive development training with Medical Intuitive and Master Healers-Teachers Sue and Aaron Singleton.

Improve your intuition, learn exclusive Energy Of Life® techniques to release blockages to your intuition, and awaken to your life’s purpose! 9.6 contact hours, 9am-6pm, manual included, DVD available. Details: www.TheWayToBalance.com; (978) 834-0341.

September 17th Dream Interpretation Workshop with Ross J. Miller psychic healer, medium, regression therapist & dream interpreter. In this experiential workshop, you’ll learn how to interpret all types of dreams. You’ll also learn how to program your subconscious so that you can remember your dreams.

Saturday, 10:00am-5:00pm, Newton, MA. To register for the workshop or to schedule a psychic or past-life reading or healing session in person or by phone with Ross J. Miller.

(617) 527-3583 or visit: www.TheMysticWay.com.

September ~Vermont September 9th-11th Detox & Unplug Retreat Join us for a special weekend of sacred healing as we take a break from the hectic world and enter a quiet state of inner reflection. Taking time to get rid of the toxins and poisons we are exposed to is vital to our health and well-being. Unpluging from the modern technological world is necessary in order to hear what is going on within us. Location: Ledge End Retreat Center, Vershire, Vermont. Website: www.artofzenyoga.com, (860) 805-6551.

October 14th, Friday, 7:00pm Harmonic Sound Immersion ~ With ArcSounds Joseph N. Goff House, 2 Barton Hill Rd., East Hampton. $20 Come immerse yourself in vibrational sound healing through the tones of Gongs and crystal bowls. Reservations necessary and FMI:call (203) 779-0345 or email joan@ronandjoan.com.

October 28th, Friday, 6:00pm Harmonic Sound Immersion Group With Ron and Joan at Middlesex Hospital Cancer Center Wellness Room, 536 Saybrook Rd. #280, Middletown. $20 Come immerse yourself in vibrational sound healing through the tones of gongs and crystal bowls. Reservations necessary and FMI: call (860) 358-2041 or email joan@ronandjoan.com.

October 29th, Friday, 7:00pm Harmonic Sound Immersion ~ With ArcSounds Unity Church of Hartford, 919 Ellington Rd., South Windsor. $20 Come immerse yourself in vibrational sound healing through the tones of gongs and crystal bowls. Reservations necessary and FMI: call (860) 289-8963 or email vibrations@unityhartford.org.

Upcoming ~ Maine October 1st, 9:00am–5:00pm Healing Arts & Psychic Festival Enjoy this festival of holistic health practitioners, readings from psychics and mediums, gems, jewelry, numerology, energy healing, workshops, and more. $5.00 admission.

Fairfield Community Center, 61 Water Street, Fairfield, Maine (near Waterville). More information and workshop schedule on website: healingartsandpsychicfestival.com (207)314-1499.

October 7th-10th Surya $450 Columbus Day Weekend Retreat with Surya Chandra Das Yoga, meditation, silence at quiet 100-acre country sanctuary in Brooks. www.rollingmeadowsretreat.com, (888) 666-6412.

October 8th-10th Fall Reflections: A co-ed Eco Yoga Retreat for healing and spaciousness with Nurture Through Nature Retreats, Denmark, Maine. www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929. $427 includes shared eco-cabin stay and all meals.

October 16th & 23rd, 9:00am-4:00pm both days Karuna® Reiki 1 & 2 Practitioner Workshop: Karuna: Compassion in Sanskrit. Learn Karuna symbols and their uses, toning with symbols, giving treatments, and much more. Ample practice time. FMI-Yvonne Thibodeau, Sacred Heart of the Wolf at (207) 356-2662.

October 22nd & 29th, 9:00am-4:00pm, both Saturdays Usui Reiki III, ART Workshop: Advanced practitioner attunenment and techniques, working with crystals and the Reiki Grid, meditation and aura balancing techniques. Ample practice time. Must have completed Reiki II. FMI-Yvonne Thibodeau, Sacred Heart of the Wolf at (207) 356-2662.

Upcoming~Massachusetts October 2nd Healing at the Speed of Light: Change Your DNA Scientific pioneers including Drs. John Ott, Jacob Lieberman and Fritz-Albert Popp have proven the importance of color, light and bio-photon energy for influencing human health and DNA. Learn Aaron and Sue Singleton’s color and light techniques to help heal illness, emotional issues, encourage DNA changes to rejuvenate the body, for your personal health, or in your healthcare practice! 7.2 contact hours, 9am-4pm. Details: www.TheWayToBalance.com, (978) 834-0341.

October 16th The Rings of Oden – Module 1 of 3: New Technology for Quantum Healing. The Rings combine Sacred Geometry, DNA Re-Patterning, Crop Circles, and Cell Microbiology concepts as part of a revolutionary technology, "Net-Neutral Ionic Energy." Ring vortices open stuck areas, allowing toxins, traumas to leave, and intuitive awareness to increase.

Experience configurations to relieve stress/anxiety, enhance endocrine, immune systems, liver/gallbladder functions, etc.

7.2 contact hours, 9am-4pm. Details: www.TheWayToBalance.com, (978) 834-0341.

Ongoing~Connecticut Laughter Yoga, 2nd and 4th Monday of each month, 6:00pm-7:00pm, with Donna Lombardo at the Masonic Hall, 11 South Main St., West Hartford, CT, Class fee $5.00. Enjoy this fun-filled class that combines Laughter exercises with Yogic Breathing. No experience necessary. FMI (860) 462-1031 or www.spiritdanceyoga.com.

Second Wednesday, Meditation with Clare Vidich Willimantic - Windham Hospital, Women's Center for Health, 7A Ledgebrook Drive, Mansfield Center, CT (behind the East Brook Mall). For more information call (860) 456-6766, Time: 6:30pm. Cost: Free

Sunday ~ Bhakti-Yoga Festival – 3:00pm Join us for kirtan, philosophy and vegetarian dinner. No charge. Hare Krishna Temple. 1683 Main St. East Hartford (860) 289-7252, www.iskconct.org.

Ongoing Reiki Offerings Individual Reiki Sessions, Crystal Healings, Reiki Shares & Classes in Eastern CT. Please call Carleen, RMT at (860) 884-3125 for more information.

Holistic Moms Network National non-profit organization for parents with an interest in holistic health and green living. Visit www.holisticmoms.org to find a local chapter.

SunDo Mountain Taoism Classes in Taoist breathwork, meditation and postures for all fitness levels. SunDo Taoist practice enhances the body's qi-energy flow, which promotes health and higher consciousness. (860) 523-5260, www.sundo.org.

ECKANKAR Temple of CT -- a place for all who love God. ECKANKAR, the religion of the Light and Sound of God. Worship services are the second Sunday of every month 10:00am with fellowship and refreshments afterwards.

Corner of Route 66 and Harvestwood Rd. Middlefield. (860) 346-2226; www.ct-eckankar.org.

O ng o i ng ~

M aine

Birchwood Yoga Studio Sukha Yoga by donation Tuesday's 7:00pm-8:15pm and Saturday's 3:00-4:15pm. Offering Meditation, Sukha Yoga, Kirtan and Sadhana's, 81 Benson Road, West Gardiner.

Phone: (207) 724-3658, Web: http://birchwoodyoga.org, Email: info@birchwoodyoga.org.

Monthly Dowsing for Your Health & Earth Energies Classes, and Meditation Sessions at Leapin' Lizards in Freeport & Portland. Check out www.trustyourspirit.org or www.leapinlizards.biz for class dates and times. FMI call Paul at (207) 332-9681.

Women’s Group

SEND ALL LISTINGS TO: info@innertapestry.org

meeting weekly for support and relaxing body-mind exercises.

Thursday’s 6:30pm-8:00pm in Damariscotta. Call Angela Hassenpflug at (207) 592-7888 or email angela@gestaltyourlife.com

Continued on page 44 August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 43

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September 24th-25th, Saturday & Sunday Yoga and Workshops

Upcoming~Connecticut

44 A Course In Miracles

Friday Night: Weekly Psychic Development

“SANT MAT RADHASWAMI SATSANG”

Every other Monday noon-1:00pm at Meadow Wind in Falmouth.

Newcomers welcome! FMI and dates contact Jane McGrady, janemarie44@live.com or www.meadowwind.org. $10-$15.

and Awareness Classes, except for the 4th Friday which is Gallery Readings - see above. Portland Spiritualist Church, 755 Main Street, Westbrook (Mission Possible Teen Center).

Classes start at 7:30pm. Most classes are by donation. FMI call (207) 655-6673 or visit our website at www.portlandspiritualistchurch.org.

Inner Light & Sound Meditation. Surat Shabd Yoga. For a Bangor, Waterville, & Portland meeting schedule, call James at: (207) 358-9381 or James@SpiritualAwakeningRadio.com.

Wai Nei Academy of Health Every Tuesday and Thursday at 6:00pm we study ancient and sacred Taoist healing arts, martial arts and meditation.

Come by and join us for free! Facilitated by Shifu Kelcey Hart.

FMI call (207) 839-LIVE (5483). Also offering private teaching, healing and consultation.

Holistic Gatherings The Healing Connection Cooperative of Rumford, Healing/ meditation circles, Chakra balancing/cleansing Reiki, psychic games, June 25th, July 16th, August 13th, September 17th from 10:00am-4:00pm. Call: (207) 562-7094, www.healingconnectioncoop.webs.com.

Etna Spiritualist Association Celebrates it's 135th Season in the summer of 2011. Please plan to join folks of all spiritual backgrounds for seminars, workshops, meditation, healing, relaxation and renewal. Camp Season runs from July through August. Affordable lodging available. More information on our website: www.campetna.com or call (207) 269-2094.

Bhava Yoga School 496 Congress St, 2nd Floor, Portland, Maine. Weekly by donation; meditation, chant, and yoga classes. For more info www.bhavayogaschool.com, (603) 937-1163.

Peace & Meditation Group - Camden/Lincolnville Tuesdays at 6:00pm. Readings, Films & Audiotapes based on the works of H.W.L. Poonja. Ramana Maharshi, Nisargadatta Maharaj, Jean Klein and other inspired teachers of Reality.

All Welcome. Contact Michael at (207) 763-3860.

Healing And Prayer Circle ~ Free

Meditation and Buddhism: Nagaloka is a spiritual community that provides space for individuals to explore and practice Buddhism. Weekly meditation sessions, retreats and introductory classes on meditation and Buddhism are scheduled regularly. Bookstore, too! 54 York St., Portland, www.nagalokabuddhistcenter.org, (207) 774-1545.

The New Moon Rituals with Chief Oscar Mokeme www.museumafricanculture.org and the class "Developing Your Personal Healing Gifts" with teacher, healer and medical intuitive Regina Strongheart at "Forest Circles," Topsham, www.forestcircles.com.

Thursday Buddhist Meditation We practice Natural Wisdom and Love/Compassion and Tonglen.

All practices are for beginners and long-time practitioners, 25 Middle Street, Portland. 6:00pm-7:00pm. Jane Burdick, janeburd@maine.rr.com or (207) 773-6809.

ShivaShakti School of Yoga, Rockland Give yourself the gift of Yoga! Ongoing weekly classes morning and evening for all levels. Call (207) 431-8079 or visit www.ShivaShaktiYogaSchool.com.

Spiritual Horizons Maine Meets every other Tuesday at 7:00pm, 75 State Street, Portland. Alternate weeks group on A Course in Miracles.

Contact: Tom Peterson (207) 310-0030 or John Moulton (207) 874-7602, www.spiritualhorizonsmaine.ning.com.

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2nd Thursdays of each month, 7:00pm-8:30pm. Come in community to pray, meditate and send love to those who you are concerned about, or ask for healing for yourself. Open to all! Bring a goodie to share for refreshments after. Sacred Circle Studio, Friendship. Contact: Kat Logan, (207) 226-7446, or email kat@mygreatfullheart.com.

Energize Sessions with Emmanuelle Chaulet

Have a problem with food?

The Birth House

Does your eating behavior make you or others unhappy?

There is help available in OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS! Check out oamaine.org to learn more, or call 211 for meeting times.

Bridgton's freestanding birth center is available for free tours. FMI: contact heidi@birthwisemidwifery.edu, www.birthhouseme.com or (207) 647-5919.

Kirtan at Portland Yoga Studio, 1st and 3rd Fridays

Wavelengths Hypnotherapy ongoing classes:

Join us on a vocal journey through the sacred sounds of ancient India with call & response group chanting. Beginners welcomed. $5.00 suggested donation. 7:00pm-8:30pm, 616 Congress St., 3rd floor, Portland. FMI: www.kirtanandyoga.com.

Self-Hypnosis, Weight Management, Smoking Cessation, Relaxation, Guided Imagery Classes. Bonnie Lee Gibson, CH and Ernie VanDenBossche, BCH, CI; www.hypnowave.com (207) 453-6133, (207) 649-9655, Waterville.

The Ducktrap Writers’ Round Table

Oneness Blessings/Oneness Deeksha

meets on third Sundays at Camden Public Library from 2:00pm-4:00pm. A venue for writers who wish to share work, receive feedback and be supported in their craft. Call Teresa Piccari, proprietor of The Village Scribe, at (207) 344-7070 for more info. Suggested fee is $15.

A Direct Experience of the Divine ~ Living in Oneness. Regularly scheduled circles (free). Become a Deeksha giver. Oneness Trainers Elizabeth and Maha'al. Contact Elizabeth@IntegralReal.com or (207) 619-1663.

Reiki - Healing Ways of Kennebunk

Located at 267 Congress Street, Portland, (within the synagogue). Sunday Services: 10:30am-12:00pm followed by fellowship. FMI call (207) 576-7276, visit www.RevGloriaNye.com.

Reiki classes offered monthly. Learn this ancient art of hands-on healing for yourself, loved ones, and pets.

FMI Rachel Pelletier, LMT (207) 967-0035 or www.healingwaysonline.com.

Taoist Tai Chi TM Internal Arts of Health Sustain or reclaim your good health with the Taoist Tai Chi Society® internal art of Tai Chi Chuan. In more than 25 countries around the globe, people of all ages and abilities enjoy the many benefits of practicing this art of holistic health. Classes are offered in Westbrook, Bridgton, Brownfield & Blue Hill. FMI: (207) 329-4346, or email: portland.me@taoist.org.

Wednesday Women’s Meditation Group All women welcome to a weekly meditation in the Greenfire tradition. Location: Newcastle, St. Andrews Parish House, Glidden St. 6:30pm–7:30pm (not on the 3rd Wednesday of the month).

For more info please call: Angela H. (207) 592-7888 or Mary A. (207) 677-3229.

Sunday Night: Portland Spiritualist Church meets at 755 Main Street, Westbrook (Mission Possible Teen Center) for 6:30pm Service, Healing Meditation, Inspirational Talk, Messages from Spirit. FMI call (207) 655-6673 or visit our website at www.portlandspiritualistchurch.org.

Fourth Friday of each month - Gallery Readings.

Join us at the Portland Spiritualist Church, 755 Main Street, Westbrook (Mission Possible Teen Center) for an evening of messages from Spirit. 7:00pm $10 event. FMI call (207) 655-6673 or visit our website at www.portlandspiritualistchurch.org.

44 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

TM

Stress relief, energy clearing and balancing, RYSE®.

Self-confidence, boundaries and empowerment issues.

For artists, performers, women, body workers. $80 ($70 students) Holistic Pathways, Gorham, (207) 839-9819 www.emmanuellechaulet.com.

Center of Inner Light, Rev. Gloria Nye

Dragonfly Taijiquan, Larry Ira Landau Group & Private Instruction in T’ai Chi Ch’aun (taijiquan) & Chi Kung (qigong) for beginners & experienced students.

Studios in Portland and Kennebunkport. Ongoing classes, workshops & retreats. FMI: (207) 761-2142 or (207) 967-4070.

Doula tea ~ meet with doulas in person Learn how doulas help families during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. We meet one Sunday each month at the Birth Roots, 101 State St., Portland from 9:00am-11:00am. There is no fee, pre-registration is required. Call Rebecca Goodwin at (207) 318-8272.

USM Center for Continuing Education.

Ongoing classes in Complementary Therapies, (Traditional Chinese Medicine, Aromatherapy, Reiki, etc.) Visit www.usm.maine.edu/cce for course & registration information or call (207) 780-5900 for catalog.

Stretch, Relax and Recharge Through YOGA A gentle way to reduce stress, tension and pain, while increasing vitality, flexibility, strength, a positive mind and balance on all levels. Ongoing Iyengar Yoga Classes (20 years of teaching) Kennebunk: Monday 5:00pm continuing level & 7:00pm beginners, Thursday 5:15pm continuing level 8 weeks at $99, drop in fee $15. In Portland: Saturdays 10am continuing beginners. Yoga Vacation in Virgin Gorda February 14th-21st, $700 plus airfare FMI: call Jeanette Schmid Lakari (207) 282-5528 or email at yogajs@maine.rr.com.

Ongoing~NewHampshire Eaton Satsang Near Conway, an informal small group meets Wednesday evenings to support meditation, awakening to nondual (Advaita) awareness and spiritual understanding. All are welcome. Details at: www.eatonsatsang.org or (603) 447-5401.

Ongoing ~ Vermont Zen Yoga Breathing, movement, stretching and deep guided relaxation meditation. Every Wednesday evening. Beginners 6:00pm-7:00pm.

All levels 7:00pm-8:30pm. $10 per class. Location: Studio Time and Space in Springfield, VT. Everyone welcome. www.studiotimeandspace.org. (802) 591-0990.

Ledge End Retreat & Wellness Center Zen Yoga classes Monday & Thursday evenings at 6:00pm. $10 per class. All levels. Vershire, VT. www.artofzenyoga.com (860) 805-6551.

Classified Listings HEALING PLACES & SPACES ~ Maine Nurture Through Nature specializes in holistic personal retreats. Experience peace, healing and connection with self and nature in a simple and earth-friendly environment. Enjoy yoga, body work, a Finnish wood-fired sauna steam bath, dips in the mountain brook, hiking, meditation, The Work of Byron Katie, canoeing, kayaking... create your own getaway for individuals, couples and small groups. Bridgton Lakes Region, Denmark, (207) 452-2929, www.ntnretreats.com.

Dancing Angels Wellness Studio & The Maine Center for Pranic Healing We are happy to provide you with tools for Mind, Body and Soul Expansion! Angel Therapy®, Pranic Healing, Reiki and so much more! www.dancingangels.us or e-mail dancingangels@dancingangels.us.

HEALING PLACES & SPACES ~ Vermont Private Individual/Couples Retreat Getaway Join Zen Yoga founder Aaron Hoopes and his wife Elfeya for a special weekend of breathing, gentle movement and meditation in the beautiful mountains of Vermont. Program includes nature meditations, tai chi, qigong and deep relaxation. Home-cooked meals! Ledge End Retreat & Wellness Center, (860) 805-6551, breathe@artofzenyoga.com, www.artofzenyoga.com.

Continuing Education for Massage Therapists All Zen Yoga retreats and programs qualify for CE Hours for Licensed Massage Therapists. Zen Yoga is certified with the NCBTMB. We also offer an Online Course for CE Hours. www.artofzenyoga.com.

PRACTITIONERS ~ Maine Shamanic Healing Munay-Ki Mentoring, Crystal Singing Bowls, Healing Workshops. Open by appointment and for 3rd Friday Artwalk 5:00pm-8:00pm. Handmade spiritual art and gifts. 786 Middle Street, Bath, Maine. Jaclyn Ouillette www.Jaclyn-O.com (207) 319-4116.

Reconnective Healing & The Reconnection!

Make contact with healing frequencies reported to heal: cancer, emotional stress, physical disease, addiction, etc. Contact Ruth Kirkwood (207) 773-1406 Portland, Maine, $50.00 sessions and Free Consults For The Reconnection!

Baylight Homeopathy Courses Join us in learning how to use this gentle and effective medicine. We offer on-going classes, workshops and seminars. FMI call (207) 774-4244 or visit us online at www.baylighthomeopathy.com.

SACRED RENTAL SPACE ~ Maine A Place In The Heart Energetically clear, beautiful spaces for classes, workshops, celebrations, and ceremony. Outdoor ceremonial space available. Located in Falmouth. Reasonable rates. FMI call The Vywamus Foundation (207) 797-6106.

45 Green-Certified Eco-Retreat Space available for rent.

Gardens of Atlantis

Practitioner Space Rental at WholeHeart Yoga Center

Nurture Through Nature offers three solar-powered eco-cabins, yurt, private camping, wood-fired sauna, yoga studio, hiking trails, mountain brook, Denmark, ~ Greater Bridgton Lakes Region, www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929.

Rental space available to practitioners/teachers. We are committed to providing our best to our community to support growth, beauty, healing and Love. Call Linda at (207) 929-5088.

Rental space for quiet activities. Join our meditation groups and massage practitioner in using this beautiful space in Portland. Call Pam at (207) 871-8274, www.wholeheartyoga.com.

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~ Ongoing Event Listings ~

Inner Tapestry ' s ~ Calendar of Events ~ Date Sensitive Listings ~ $12 per issue for 30 words, additional words are 50 cents each.

Please follow the format found in the journal and online, (Date information, title, description, location and contact information.)

Calendar of Events and Classified Guidelines

A six-month (3 issue) listing is $25 for 30 words, additional words are 50 cents each.

Please follow the format of our Ongoing Listings found in the journal and online, (Title, frequency, description, location and contact information.)

w w w .in n e rt ape st ry.o rg

Classified Ads Classified ads are $20 for 30 words, additional words are 50 cents each.

Please send formatted listings.

We do not publish press releases.

All Calendar and Classified Listings are listed on the Inner Tapestry Website!

August/September 2011 Inner Tapestry 45

46

m ix ed m e dia

Book Review

by Jennifer Cole

The Fisherman's Call, To Awaken the Heart of Compassion ISBN: 9781450264655 Publisher iUniverse.com

Walking the Walk of Compassion

S K O O B Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

WEB SITES

R

O I D A

MUSIC

DVDs S E I V O M HEALI NG TOOLS

AND F OO D EWS R E V Iand more

During his fishing days William “Billy” Packer, of Newburyport Massachusetts, was quite a local icon. He was well known as a captain and a harpoon fisherman bringing in more tuna and swordfish to the local fish market, than any other fisherman in the area. Recently, Billy wrote a book called The Fisherman’s Call, To Awaken the Heart of Compassion. I had the pleasure of meeting with Billy to discuss his writings, at the “Fishtail Diner.” The little diner was too crowded and loud for us to hear each other, so we sat at a table that Billy had found before I arrived.

The quaint table and chairs seemed to be waiting for us to relax in the shade, and enjoy our conversation. It was located at the end of the main dock behind the diner. The environment was much quieter there, with the breeze blowing off the “Merrimac River,” and the seagulls calling in the background. Every once in awhile the “Route One Bridge” alarm would siren its warning, that it would be opening to allow a taller boat to pass by.

Let’s talk about Newburyport back in your fishing days,” I said to Billy. “Yaaahhh!” he said, in his native New England accent. “I had a lot of different fishing boats, probably the one that was best known, was called the 'Blue Fin Too,' which was my best tuna boat, that’s the one I had when we caught a hundred and twentyone giant tuna that year.” Billy looked past me into the air and said, “It seems like another world, another lifetime now; that was a long time ago you know.” “How many years were you out on the boat fishing?” I asked. “From the time I was in my early twenties until I was forty years old. I sold my boat and left the sea and started on this journey of awakening and it has lasted until now, and now the book is involved, so it’s been a long trip.” One of the passages in Billy’s book, from his fishing days tells of one of his last fishing trips, before selling his boat. “We woke to the finest kind of harpoon fishing weather and conditions. Crystal clear skies and glassy, flat calm, ocean with little schools of baitfish showing around the boat in every direction – as far as the eye could see. With

46 Inner Tapestry August/September 2011

these baitfish came the predators and as we started to look further we saw shark fins, marlin fins, tuna fins, whale fins and swordfish fins, a harpoon fisherman’s heaven! Ya H-o-o!!”

(Pg. 32, Fisherman’s Call.)

Billy smiled and said, “This is such a great place to be interviewed, because you know, Wilber Rodgers and I built this dock. It was just pilings jutting up out of the water back then, and we also built the diner, which was the old 'Agawam Diner.' We bought it from W.E. Atkinson Co. I like to see them doing such a big business now,” he added. Billy and Wilber created this marina and diner for a place for fisherman to gather, tell their stories and get a bite to eat. Billy’s first wife Joan (mother of his four children) named the diner.

So I asked him what had inspired him to write his book? “Well you know what, I’ll show you,” said Billy, as he pulled a wellworn soft-cover copy of Black Elk Speaks, by John Reinhardt out of his bag. The front cover was partially torn and what was left of the image was well worn, but I could tell this particular copy was the actual book he found in the mountains of Oregon, which he mentions in Fisherman’s Call. I could tell this copy meant a lot to Billy, as he still carried it with him.

“This book changed my life forever!” he shared excitedly. “After tomorrow I am heading to the University of New York in Albany, where they published this book.” I asked him if he had also read The Teachings of Don Juan, by Carlos Castaneda as well? “I read that when I was fishing!” said Billy.

I had to admit to Billy that I hadn’t read his book yet, but I planned to read it before writing this article. However, I had read Black Elk Speaks, when I was in art school and it had changed the way I looked at the world as well. In fact the visions of Black Elk inspired my artwork, and prompted me to seek a more natural existence, so I knew the depth in which he was speaking. Billy was on a spiritual path that turned his life from fisherman to environmental activist and spiritual messenger. Billy began his search of the natural laws and order of the earth, in search of compassion for all living creatures. He couldn’t fish and kill giant tuna or swordfish anymore, it wasn’t showing compassion, and that

47

was what Billy needed to find within his heart. This is what he found within the pages of this weathered and worn book, that he still held so dear to his heart.

“I’ve been writing little books and handing them out for a long time. I never really thought I could write, in fact I could hardly write a letter! I had once heard someone say, 'You don’t become a writer because you want to become a writer, you become a writer because you have something to say.' So through Black Elk I felt I had something to say, that would help people and help the planet,” said Billy. “I hardly slept last night, it was partially about the trip, but mostly because I was meeting with you, this is a big thing to me in a way,” he shared. I was flattered that he was excited for an interview with me, to help spread the word locally of his work and Black Elk’s law and how it had changed his life. If he only knew how excited I was to meet with him! I even went out and bought a new digital tape recorder so our conversation wouldn’t be interrupted with me having to flip the tape over!

Billy was born and raised in Newburyport, MA and still resides there with his wife Phyllis, when he’s not traveling, visiting friends and family or spending time in the wilderness. He has four children, Jeff, Brenda, Gaylynn and Mindy Packer, with his first wife Joan. He once worked as a design draftsman and then fished for many years until he began his thirty-year journey of spiritual awakening. “The Happiest time of my life was when I was living in the wilderness with nature, camping in my tent, sleeping on the ground. I’d get up and make coffee and watch the many birds and creatures.

Having nothing but the basic things and living with nature made me the happiest I have ever been,” shared Billy.

He is now on his way across the country to visit loved ones and to promote his book to those who may be interested. Billy’s book starts out with his adventures on the sea combined with horrific storms he survived, and amazing catches that surpassed even his own hopes, to miraculous moments during his time spent living in the wilderness. One of the many moments that comes to mind from his book, was in the Arizona desert, “Praying by a stream in the Arizona Desert, the incredible feeling of joy came over me giving birth to the very same melody. After I sang to the desert wilderness for about fifteen minutes, a string of native boar walked right up the stream to me. I had never seen such creatures before. Then the sky filled with ducks and geese. But where had they come from? I thought, this is the desert! Then I looked over toward my tent and there were two large owls sitting in a nearby tree. They were not there before.” (Pg. 111, The Fisherman’s Call.)

For those who enjoy sea adventures and stories of personal transformation, that include an interconnection to the earth and nature, Billy Packer’s book is sure to be an uplifting message of peace, harmony and a hope for the earth’s future, one that is greatly needed in a world filled with so many troubles. As Billy Packer would say, “Compassion first for all living things.

Please open my heart.

May you have a safe and amazing journey filled with many more moments to treasure, as you travel across the country Billy!

Jennifer Cole is an Illustrator, Writer and Photo-journalist born and raised in Newburyport, currently living in New Hampshire and can be reached at jennsart63@yahoo.com.

In the last 4 years, my friend/co-author, Janet Keefe and myself, Jennifer Cole, have been working on a musical called "The Hat." It is about Empathy, Synchronicity, Faith, Hope & Love. We presented it to The Players Ring this Spring, and it was accepted for the 2009-2010 season. Our musical will be performed at The Players Ring on 105 Marcy St. Portsmouth NH. on August 21, 22, 23 (Late night schedule) Featuring music from local musicians, George Brown, Cynthia Chatis, Shawn Russell, and Dennis Callahan. The main characters are humble migrant workers from Jamaica, working in a NH apple orchard during election year. In an innocent whimsical way they change the course the world is on, with the aid of a simple yet supernatural hat blessed by our Creator. This musical takes place during a presidential election year. Our intentions in writing this musical, is to help open people's eyes to the way things could be... also to cast hope for a change and a better way of life. I thank our Creator for all that I have... and for all that is and will be...

View our blog page for "The Hat" at: http://spiritsistersproductions.blogspot.com/

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Please help me to feel.” (Pg. 110, Fisherman’s Call)

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I later read Billy’s book, “The Fisherman’s Call.” He had given me a signed copy and I really enjoyed the stories of his travels into the wilderness and experiences with the animals, that would approach him and his compassionate heart and spirit song. “It makes me cringe now when I think of killing all those giant tuna,” Billy admitted. One of the animal stories he shared with me was regarding a bull buffalo, on his honeymoon in Wyoming. Billy and his wife Phyllis went camping and while hiking they came upon a big bull buffalo. They stood and watched it for a while and went along their way. Later when they had drivee a bit further and stopped to have lunch, they suddenly saw this bull buffalo again, munching his way up stream. This time there was some mist in the air and when he looked at this majestic creature, the sun shone behind him and a double rainbow appeared directly over the animal’s head. Billy thought this was such a magnificent sight, that he started spontaneously singing to the bull for about fifteen minutes. The buffalo just stood there eating and listening.

“When I finished, the buffalo had munched its way upstream and disappeared into the forest. We decided since it was such a nice night, we would sleep out under the stars, so we rolled out our sleeping bags and fell asleep. The next morning at gray dawn, Phyllis woke up and said, 'Bill, Bill, look!' I woke up this morning and thought that this big boulder had suddenly appeared overnight that hadn’t been there before, but look it’s the buffalo!” Overnight the buffalo came back and had lain down, to sleep by their side. “Even now I get a chill in me just talking about it,” said Billy. I mentioned that this buffalo must have had much trust, to lie down and go to sleep beside them. “I was so honored! I loved that buffalo and I think he knew it. A friend of mine told me that animals can sense when you sing to them from your soul, and I think that he sensed this,” shared Billy.

William “Billy” Packer’s book can be found at “Jabberwocky,” in downtown Newburyport, MA. It can also be found at “Barnes and Nobles,” or online at “Amazon.com.” Fisherman’s Call can also be found on Facebook. Copies may be ordered directly through the publisher, iUniverse at www.iuniverse.com.

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