Inner Tapestry “Embracement” December 2009 January 2010

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A Holistic Journal Celebrating & Supporting LIFE! Dec 2009/Jan 2010

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Embracement

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Volume 8, No. 4

Inner

Tapestry Immunity?

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The Mary Garden

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You've Been Angeled

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Three Steps To Attracting What You Most Want

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The Gift of Mental Illness

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The Journey of Embracing Your Pets

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Loving Earth ~ Embracing All Life

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Wandering Sage Wisdom ~ The Stone Cutter

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Modern Shamanic Living ~ Holding Course and Letting Go

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Destination Healing SNE ~ Embracing Intuition With Carolyn Myss

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21st Century Bohemian ~ A Conversation with Shakti Gawain, Part 2

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Cyan Magenta Yellow Black 2 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

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Inner TAPESTRY

This Issue's Theme

Embracement

Ap r il / M ay 2 0 1 0 Li v ing Wit ho u t D ef initio n J u ne/ J u l y 2 0 1 0 G o o d Vibratio ns Au g u st/ S ep tem b er 2 0 10 Awak ening Hu m a n Po tentia l O c to ber / N ovem b er 2 010 What M oves Yo u ?

Ar t i cl e S u b m issio n Date For Fe b r u a r y / M a rc h 2 0 1 0 Is s ue

A Holistic Journal Celebrating & Supporting LIFE!

Features

DEC 2009/JAN 2010

You've Been Angeled

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by Eva Goetz

Three Steps To Attracting What You Most Want

by SallyHerr

Through the Darkness, Into the Light

Page 13

by Dr. Kevin Ross Emery

The Journey of Embracing Your Pets

Page 14

by Donald and Sara Hassler

The Mary Garden

Page 20

by Gail Faith Edwards

Herbology Today ~ Pain Management and Herbology

Page 21

by Christopher J. Bashaw, RN

Immunity?

Page 26

by Ron Damico

The Gift of Mental Illness

Page 29

by Kimble Greene, Ph.D.

Departments

December 25th

Loving Earth ~ Embracing All Life

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by Pat Foley

Modern Shamanic Living ~ Holding Course and Letting Go

by Evelyn C. Rysdyk

The Way of Life-Itself ~ With Embodied Mind We Experience

by Skye Hirst, Ph.D. The Living Reality

Page 15

21st Century Boheman ~ A Conversation With Shakti Gawain Part 2

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Destination Healing SNE ~ Embracing Intuition An Interview

by Karen M. Rider With Carolyn Myss

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A Breath of Healing ~ Embrace the Moment

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by Teresa Piccari

by Donna Amrita Davidge

Awareness and the Art of Seeing ~ Wool Rising Over the Fleece Landscape

Page 19

Wandering Sage Wisdom ~ The Stone Cutter

Page 23

by Jen Deraspe

by Aaron Hoopes

Welcome Home ~ Ask Asrianna

Page 28

by Asrianna Dameron

Feng Shui & Geopathology ~ Body Dowsing

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by Werner Brandmaier

Exploring the World Religions ~ Reality And Not The Illusion

by James Bean Of Having A Guru, Part 2 Mixed Media ~ Book, Website & Music Reviews

Directories

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

Page 31 Pages 46-47

Pages 32-40 Page 40 Pages 42-44

Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 3

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Attending To Our Physical Vessel

Contents

4 Northeast TRAGER® Neuromuscular Re-education and Mentastics/Mindful Movement Freedom of Movement is the Foundation of a Healthy Body A H olistic Journal

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Celebrating & Supporting LIFE!

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Peace and Good Will Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

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 and its practitioners. The journal is advertiser-supported.

It can be found in businesses and services that promote complementary healing, and who support cultural, environmental and educational needs, where ideas of conscious living and integrative wholeness are welcomed and nourished.

In our eighth year as a Holistic Journal celebrating and supporting the exploration of life, we have become a leading voice for people in their discovery of holistic health, natural living and spiritual wisdom and insight.

AVAILABLE IN MORE THAN 500 LOCATIONS Distributed bimonthly (six times a year) this free publication is filled with carefully selected inspiring and informative articles promoting conscious life choices that lead to a higher quality of life, unity within one's self and community and a greater experience of spirit! Our distribution area spans throughout Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Massachusetts with over 500 locations. If you would like copies placed at your business or location please contact us. Inner Tapestry is a great resource for your family, friends, clients and customers.

SEE YOUR ADVERTISEMENT IN INNER TAPESTRY SIX WAYS TO ADVERTISE Throughout Inner Tapestry's pages are the Display Ads. Toward the back of the journal you will find the Directory of Resources, a comprehensive listing of practitioners and descriptions of their services. Immediately following you will find our Calendar of Events and the Classified section. The fifth method is the Yoga, T'ai Chi, Aikido & Meditation Practitioners Directory, with a listing of styles and forms available for study. Our online website is the sixth way to advertise, with a side banner Display Ad or an online Directory of Resource Ad. For ad size and pricing information visit www.innertapestry.org or call 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.

Articles are for information only and do not constitute medical advice. Please obtain written permission before reproducing any part of this publication. All rights reserved. ® 2010.

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www.trager-northeast.org Marlena O'Hagan-Buzzell Virginia Reidy kmbuzzell@roadrunner.com vr45traveler@hotmail.com 207 212-7721 207 734-8132 / 904-874-4896 Liz Berks lizland@roadrunner.com 207 839-2333 "Experience your vision of living life with more ease in your body, peace of mind and a sense of emotional well-being; The Trager Approach, Mind/Body Integration."

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New this Issue: Welcome to our last issue of 2009 and our first issue of 2010, Embracement. It seems such a short time ago that I remarked "we have so much time before 2012 arrives." Now, it's just around the corner, just a few heartbeats away. The air and everything around us carries the energy of our growing anticipation, excitement and even some anxiety.

Scientists have said that our bodies, physiologically, will respond exactly the same if we are to loose our best friend or win the lottery. As we become more aware of the energy building in our world, let's take a look at this scientific statement.

If my body is responding in the same manner, in both situations, then is it my mind that determines and labels what I am experiencing? Not a new concept, but one to be conscious of as we continue through our evolution.

Settle into your heart when you are feeling anxiety or fear and ask, "Am I really experiencing anxiety or fear? Is it excitement or joy? Am I just using my old references to "label this sensation?" I've found more times than not, it is the bubbling up of the love, joy and excitement that I maybe holding back.

Let your hearts sing, let your spirit rise, set your potential free. The world is an ever changing organism that welcomes us with open arms. Listen for this message and welcome yourselves and each other with the same openness. In this, we will create the miracle of life−Embracement.

Time seems to be flying, there is so much happening in shorter periods of time. Changes are rapidly happening for people, even if things seem to be the same. This is a challenging time for some, definitely exciting for those who have consciously chosen to "be human." We are all in this together, our words, thoughts and feelings, are becoming more expansive. Take the time to be with yourself and find your truest expression as you share all that you are.

We were gifted recently, through Skye Hirst, a connection with two women from Connecticut, Elmira and Mary. Life friends who came together to create Harmony House, a once very active retreat center, they have recently celebrated; Elmira her 100th and Mary her 102nd, birthdays. Things in their lives have slowed a bit but they both still enjoy their visitors and with help continue to receive them with open hearts and arms.

Elmira relayed to me that one of her younger relatives calls frequently from France. She recently told her to spread the letters TKOS to everyone she talks with.

I remember when I started talking about "spirituality" with my family, how they looked at me as if I had three heads. This young woman has come up with, a phrase to describe what we all talk about. THAT KIND OF STUFF!

I truly enjoyed my time with her, it was exciting, fun and generated a complete feeling of hope as she shared her heart perspectives with us. What a wonderful way to live your life, talking about what is most important from your heart. Be well Elmire and Mary and welcome to our Inner Tapestry family.

We have also welcomed additional practitioners and schools for training, to the Directory of Resources. There are also many opportunities to receive support through the holidays to relax, refresh and renew for the up coming new year.

It has been an exciting time to experience the expansion of the journal through the Shaw's locationed in southern Maine. We are also being received with open hearts in CT through the many practitioners belonging to NESHA who are distributing journals at their locations. Our distribution has increased with the last two issues and we look forward to our connection with practitioners, readers and those who choose to advertise.

There is a unique opportunity to experience the vibrational healing resonance of a gong bath. Yes, those very large round spheres. There are not many gong players in our area that have come together as Stephanie, Deb and Joy have.

They all reside in southern New England and are regularly sharing themselves and their healing gongs in the Rhode Island area. In February, we will have the opportunity to experience this wonderfully peaceful inner-self exploration with them. Welcome to Maine Resonant Voices!

I was approached by many of our readers with a special event that I covered in our last newsletter, as we had already gone to print, about 350.org. On October 24th people around the world brought forth the awareness of the amount of carbon in our atmosphere. The safe level, yes you guessed, is 350 parts per million. We are now at 385. Since we were not able to publish the date I've included pictures on page 27 of the event around the world. I know many participated locally but check out the website for all the recently updated photos they are still coming in, and really cool.

We would also like to extend to Ted Andrew's, author of Animal Speaks, family and all of his friends and colleges our sympathy as well as our feelings of celebration to him. Many are feeling the loss of his spirit in physical form.

Thank you all for being such a wonderful part of our lives. People everywhere who read the journal and see it for the first time are always sending along their thanks to everyone who participates in the collective energy and community of the journal.

May this year hold Love, Peace, Abundance of Life, and New Possibilities for the expression of our truest potential. LOL and keep TKOSing.

Happy Holidays!

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INNER WORKINGS

As I was leaving, sharing a hug with Elmira, she said she was excited to tell her relative that she TKOS'd with us right away and didn't have to go through the preliminary pleasantries.

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You've Been Angled!!

by Eva Goetz

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hat if I told you that you are an angel? I said this with a straight face, and by some miracle, you believed me. Perhaps we have forgotten our divine birthright and our wings have been packed away too long. What if I told you that by stepping into a higher frequency range our heart center changes and we have power to alter the world? Electromagnetic frequencies will shift as we remember this truth of angel-dom. With this shift others will also be affected. The earth underneath our feet, the air we breathe, the flowers, the birds and the bees will perceive a change in the field. It is now scientifically proven that we can make a difference simply by dusting off our feathers and stepping into gratitude.

We are at scientific and biological tipping points.

There is a great deal of research presently published on electromagnetic frequency and field resonance theory. This research supports the thesis that by holding higher resonance and shifting our personal inner frequency a change in our outer physical environment can occur.

Celebrate the remembered song that now lives here; allowing this tuning toward your celestial roots to continue.

Thank the river and the light.

Take a few moments to sit or lie in gratitude. grateful for this re-membering and releasing.

May the world find us embracing the gifts we are meant to give.

May the world find us embraced in angelic grace.

Wishing all blessings, love, and health in 2010.

Eva Rose Goetz is a shamanic energy healer. She lives and works in Falmouth, Main and is available for private sessions and ceremonial work. Visit www.pachaworks.com for more information about Eva and classes and events. Eva is currently working on an art project titled. You’ve been angeled.

More about this project soon may be found in January at www.108angels.com.

Today it is my intention to gift you with a soul-cleansing journey.

This journey is for remembering and embracing the pathways toward our celestial nature.

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So pick up those wings that you put away last December or the first time someone shamed or hurt you. Have the courage to fly above the "not good enough’s" or "didn’t deserve enough’s" and become the herald you are!

The world needs us all!

Journey on the River Of Light.

Find a place to sit or lie comfortably.

Imagine a drum beat that carries you to an inner place.

Take a few deep breaths and find yourself by a river.

Allow the sounds of the river to wash and dance over you.

Begin floating on the imagined river. Enjoy the float.

Sense the movement of the waters and ease of buoyancy. Your body is held completely. Your muscles let go and the ease of float become a total experience.

Now further allow the river sounds to wash through you.

Find yourself merging with the river and the flow.

Become the river.

Allow the healing river waters to work their way into your veins and into your cells.

The river becomes light and this light along with your breath begins to ease and clear any resonance from your blood stream and cells that is not aligning you with your fullest vibrancy.

Allow the river light to continue to bathe the cells. Experience the residual areas of past hurts, past beliefs of inadequacies leaving your system. Sense the water and your breath transforming and removing these pockets where memories may be holding what no longer serves. The river light has the power to shift all residues that have blocked you from your innate knowledge of angel-dom.

Allow this gifting to happen. This river bath works in a way that is gentle and enlivening. The light is balancing and rejuvenating. You tune toward celestial radiance.

Your cells begin to glow with new energy.

Allow this light river to work it’s magic.

As the river flows through your body become aware of your heart. Allow the river light to cleanse this organ fully. Notice what happens as the heart is allowed to tune to its natural frequency unencumbered by the past. Simply allow old thoughts and beliefs to be retuned. Experience what happens. Sense the sensation of expansion and light that is now available. Allow Divine Love, and Healing Presence, to tune you toward Innate Harmony.

Experience Compassion and gratitude for your body the river and the light.

The Thirteenth Moon

Continue filling your body with this light. Cells are glowing. Allow your heart light to merge with river light, once again circulating through your whole system.

When this cleanse cycle is complete, experience yourself disengaging from the river and finding yourself once again floating on the waters.

The river carries you to the shore and you once again lay by the river, the riversounds washing over you. Take a few moments allowing the river melody to further tone the new frequency that is growing inside.

6 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

Susan Bakaley Marshall ATR-BC, LCPC board-certified art therapist, licensed clinical counselor, Shamanic practitioner

ART from the heART

Art Therapy & Shamanism Studio ~ a light-filled circular sacred space surrounded by fields and trees ~

• Shamanic journeys and healings • Soul retrieval • Individuals • Groups • Classes (207) 589-3063 moonarts@gmail.com

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Three Steps to Attracting What You Most Want

by Sally Herr

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With my newfound sense of space, I was able to realize that she was serving as a mirror for me. Whatever I disliked in her was also something within me that I was not willing to see. I, too, was judgmental—toward myself as well as her. I didn’t like her style of clothing, just as she did not like mine. I did not always like her work. I was angry at her for her judgments of me, but I was just as judgmental.

This teacher was giving me the opportunity to see what was hiding within my shadow—the part of me that I do not see. I believed her judgments of me only because I doubted myself first. I wanted her to give me confidence, but only I could give myself that. I wanted her to make me whole. I am whole already; that recognition has to come from me. Therefore I decided to practice experiencing myself as complete and whole.

It’s profound. When I treat myself as complete and whole, I can feel a powerful healing take place. With this little paradigm shift, I walk and feel differently. I say yes and no to what life has to offer from a place of wholeness.

By using my experiences to see into my shadow, it is easier for me to let go of bad guy/good guy judgments. I can’t see in someone else something that I don’t already know. If I saw her as judgmental toward me, how can I be gentler with myself ? If she did not give me support, what do I need to learn about giving myself support? When I own my shadow, I can experience my true wholeness. I can now bless her and be grateful for what she has taught me. I celebrate her being in my life and showing me where I need to grow. I won’t be going back to her classes, however, she taught me a great deal about self respect and I am grateful for her lessons.

Initially I was afraid that if I gave myself permission to choose to say "yes" or "no" to what is uncomfortable, I would say no to everything and I would be very lonely. The opposite is true. I am not suggesting that it’s OK to run away from your feelings. But sometimes I “run away” by blaming myself, staying busy, and trying to accommodate.

Last year I had a job that I really did not like, but I thought that I had to have it to survive. The job has been cut in half this year. I spent a day worrying and crying about it, and then I became quite happy. I thought that I had to work a whole lot in order to live. What I learned was that saying no to what did not work for me, gave me the space to attract what I did want.

I know that in order to be in a relationship with another person, I must first be in a relationship with what is inside me. True abundance is in giving me time and space to celebrate what I am, what I have learned and what I have created. If I stay busy all the time, trying to be sure I have enough, I am living from a place of poverty and fear. I need time to be nurtured by what I have manifested. Giving myself time to relax and to reflect brings me the wealth of enjoying the fruits of my labors. From that place of abundance, my friendships and enjoyment of what life has to offer flourishes.

It is paradoxical. By letting go of what I most wanted (in this case approval) I was able to give it to myself. I attracted what I most wanted by being willing to let it go.

Where in your life are you not getting what you want? Let go of the struggle of fighting against it by being with your sensations and feelings. If you hate your job, feel what that feels like. Give yourself the freedom to say "yes" to what gives you pleasure and "no" to what does not serve you. Look for what gives fills you with joy and gives meaning in your life and invite more of that in your working situation. If you loose a job that you didn’t like, recognize your blessings. Celebrate. Let go of fear. The fear will only hold you back from attracting new opportunities.

Allow the true power of attraction to manifest in your life by giving yourself what you want and deserve. Do this in small ways each day. Embrace what serves you.

Now is the time for all of us to find our path.

Take Care of Yourself. Happy Manifesting!

Sally Herr MA is the owner of New Era Therapies in Portland, Maine.

She is a Certified Speech-Language Pathologist, Registered CranioSacral Therapist®, Polarity Practitioner, a Kinesiology Practitioner and Resonance Repatterning® Practitioner. Sally is a Repatterning Practitioners Association board member. For the past 16 years Sally has guided people like you safely and easily into the life of their dreams. Call today for your free 15-minute phone consultation. Start now towards the life you want. Sessions are given in person, or by phone (from the comfort of your home). (207) 879-6007

I know that in order to be in a relationship with another person, I must first be in a relationship with what is inside of me.

Whenever I have uncomfortable feelings from a group of people, or a particular person, supplement, water, place, product, food, I know that I am starting to take bad energy from them.

Whenever I feel uncomfortable with a group of people, or with an individual person, a particular food, supplement, water, place, product, then I will not use or expose myself to that anymore.

I really don’t like to feel uncomfortable. I need to face my fears and discomforts and sometimes I run way—to my detriment. This statement was not giving me permission to avoid my pain, rather it gave me permission to give myself space to notice and decide what is best for me and to stop blaming myself—or anyone else, for that matter.

Recently I noticed that some nuts tasted a little rancid. Before, I would have continued eating—out of poverty consciousness. I stopped eating them, giving myself more prosperity. Also, recently I was really angry at a friend. Before I would have been nicey-nice polite on the outside, livid under the surface. Our time together would have been unpleasant for everyone. I gave myself a break to do personal processing, and when I came back, I enjoyed my time with her.

These statements gave me space; space to look at what was true for me rather than to take on what I thought my teacher wanted me to be and feel. I gave myself permission to feel all my feelings. I gave myself permission to look at what I really wanted. I decided that I had learned what I needed to learn and did not need to take any more classes from her.

Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 7

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verybody talks about the Law of Attraction. But it can drive people crazy.

You have no doubt heard a friend say “I don’t get it! I have been thinking positively and for a very long time about attracting a guy, who loves me completely and takes care of me… so why isn’t he here!” Well that’s not the Law of Attraction. Here is the true Law of Attraction: How I treat myself (and others) is what I get. If I love myself and take care of myself, that is what I will attract. All of the Wise Ones of the world say the same thing, in one way or another.

Three steps to treating yourself well and attracting what you want include: 1. Let go. When you are feeling unhappy, allow the discomfort to be. Allow the feelings to be. Give yourself space. Acknowledge what is happening. Tell the truth. If you try to push those feelings away, if you go numb, and ignore the problem, you will get more of the same. What you resist persists. Appreciate whatever you feel. Grief can be sweet. Anger can be empowering. Welcome your feelings. When you allow yourself to be with what you feel, you realize that you don’t have to do anything. You can just be. In that way you can let go.

2. Give yourself permission. Give yourself permission to do what brings pleasure. Give yourself permission to say no to what feels uncomfortable. We often want to cling on to the old and familiar out of love, loyalty, and wanting to be safe, and wanting to please others. The truth is it makes other people unhappy if we do things just to please them. Things are changing very rapidly now. Now is the time to do something really meaningful with your life. Give yourself permission to do something very good with your life.

3. Bless yourself. Give to yourself those qualities and blessings that you want others to give you. If you want to be respected, cared for, and loved, first of all you must give yourself respect, care and love. No one can give you anything unless and until you first give it to yourself.

Recently, I went to a workshop in which the teacher was very critical toward me. She didn’t like the way I dressed; she accused me of trying to show off. She repeatedly let me know that she had doubts about my abilities. I took her criticism very personally, I believed her every word. I assumed that she, the teacher, was right and I, her student, was obviously wrong. When I tried to do the work, I had no idea how to improve, in spite of (or because of) all her criticism. I felt useless.

When I returned home, at first I felt insecure and discouraged. I wanted to stop doing this type of work because I was so poor at it. I went to a counselor who told me to I stop blaming myself for everything that goes wrong. She helped me realize that I did not have to be so hard on myself. The teacher had a very specific protocol for doing the work. That approach did not always work for me. I was not trying to show off; I wanted to be supportive. I had been abusing myself by accepting all blame, therefore I attracted abuse. Clearly I had not been taking care of myself. My counselor gave me the following statement to read:

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lov ing e ar th

Embracing All Life

by Pat Foley

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hat happens in the world happens. What we are personally aware of depends upon where we live and what our concerns are. When we lived in Portland, we had an urban point of view. We live in the country now, and although our interests are much the same as they were in the past, different things happen close to us than did during our city days.

Just now, yet another of our neighbors is having trees cut. It’s rather like a war going on, an ugly local slaughter. Huge metal machines grind their way into the silent woods, gouging up the forest floor as they go, compacting the ground, crushing the air out of the loamy earth, pulverizing every living thing in their paths that cannot run away.

The noise keeps us inside… a relentless grinding interspersed with the screaming of chainsaws, followed by the crash of yet another fine, tall pine brought to earth. Inside our house, windows closed, we still hear it. Day after day, the sound continues till our teeth clench and we find ourselves feeling angry and wanting to strike out against the destruction and the noise.

Sadly there is nothing we can do.

There is science here, regarding the necessity of wildlife corridors and the capacity of older trees to sequester huge amounts of carbon. But the woods are not ours and apparently those things are not part of the landowner’s current priorities. These woods have been home to animals and other life for many years. They do not have any legal standing, nor any avenue of protest, nor do we for them.

This is “normal commerce.” The landowner will be rewarded for this destruction with money. And the animals will be homeless. This mining of trees is taking place in October. The creatures that stored nuts for the winter may starve, for the machinery will crush their nuts. Anything already affected by the cooler weather; such as snakes, bats, wood frogs, turtles and other lesser creatures, will be out of luck.

If not killed outright, they will need to move quickly to find another location to winter over in and they will be stressed by that effort, less able to make it through to spring. And if they are actually able to move, which way will they go? Where will they find safety from this relentlessly grasping hand of commerce?

The woodpeckers have already flown. Now they hammer on our wooden house instead of dead branches in those woods. We won’t hurt them, but another person could easily make a choice to put house before birds.

The people who bring our firewood each year tell us of machinery and expenses too big for selective cutting or working little lots. They tell us the woods replenish themselves, but we don’t see it happening. Each year we see more tall trees gone, more eroded soil. Still, we buy our three to four cords of firewood. It replaces the oil. We now use less than a quarter tank of each winter season. This we know is not a perfect solution.

We do not stand alone, any of us. We are instead in close embrace with all life and we forget this at our peril. But right action is often hard to figure out in our world of complicated transactions in which medical bills can bring down a stand of pines. We hear a story of a person who cared for those woods so close to us until illness interfered and medical bills grew too great. Perhaps it’s true.

Living in the city, we could more easily ignore unsustainable lumbering practices and the devastation they cause. Our minds understood, but our hearts were not as engaged.

Here in the country it is impossible for us to be disengaged, there are too many reminders. So we monitor our wood consumption and look for better ways of doing what needs to be done.

One possible thing a person might do is to make sure his or her own land is legally protected from destruction. Nationally Maine is a leading state in the number of small land trusts established here. According to the Maine Land Trust Network, in addition to larger regional and national land trusts, there are more than 100 local trusts operating within the state. They maintain a list of these groups on their website at www.mltn.org.

8 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

Small land trusts generally have quite specific boundaries that they operate within; for example, within a particular local watershed, around a certain lake, encompassing the foothills or highlands of a particular range of mountains.

There are three basic ways of conserving land: • By outright donation to a conservation organization • By sale to a similar group • By conservation easement Making an outright donation offers the benefits of income and possible estate tax deductions, both of which are worth discussing with an informed tax advisor. Should you experience a year of unusual prosperity, a donation may be used, in part, to offset taxes on any income gained. In the case of outright donation, the land is given to an organization; with conservation easements the land is best given to a different land trust. In essence, this provides two layers of protection for the land.

An outright sale to a land trust is possible but far from likely unless the property is strategically located in or near an area of extreme importance to that particular trust. Another option is an easement, which is a legal document limiting the type and scope of development on the property to which it applies. When an easement is given to a conservation organization, the land may remain in family ownership while the restrictions the property owner has chosen are upheld in perpetuity by the land trust.

Much like real property deeds, easements are filed with the appropriate registry of deeds Conserving land takes time. Although each situation is different, some people figure an average of two years from first contact with a trust to completion of a transaction. The people we have talked with who handle trusts think a year is a doable length of time.

Agreements which are acceptable to both landowner and conservation organization need to be negotiated. Tax benefits need to be determined.

However, despite the time involved, it is a way you can insure protection of the land you own which is dear to your heart. This process can save another place, where creatures large and small can live in relative safety. If the property contains large trees, carbon will be sequestered. As we each reach out to embrace and care for more of life, our whole world can change. But first we must act.

Maine Land Trust Network; www.mltn.org Green Mountain Conservation Group, NH; www.gmcg.org Northeast Wilderness Trust, MA region-wide office; www.newildernesstrust.org Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust; www.wlt.org © Pat Foley, 2009

But... the woods are not ours and apparently those things are not part of the landowner's current priorities.

Pat Foley attempts to live a green/sustainable life just outside of Cornish, Maine. She is the owner of Earthrest, a retreat center operating on solar power which offers gathering space for groups and individuals. The underlying focus of Earthrest is on following Gandhi’s advice to be the change we wish to see in the world. You may contact Pat at earthrest@psouth or (207) 625-4179.

All the wonders you seek are within yourself.

Sir Thomas Browne

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m od ern s ham an ic l i v i n g

Holding Course And Letting Go

by Evelyn C. Rysdyk

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Tilling The Soil Of The Inner Landscape Now, before you panic, I’m not suggesting that you completely “unplug” and become a hermit! Instead, I’m suggesting that you really examine how you are distracting yourself, losing your focus and interrupting your intentional way of being. Notice when you do it and truthfully ask yourself, “Why?” If your honest answer is that you are seeking “escape,” then it is time to do more work in your inner landscape. What are you seeking to escape from? Find out what those feelings are and work on how can they be changed. Don’t be afraid to do some counseling to root out the source of those feelings that continually arise and push you toward distraction. They are usually unconscious misperceptions we gained either in our infancy or very early childhood.

In some cases, they may even have been carried in from a previous existence. In any case, our Shamanic Inner Body HealingTM work (2) may be useful as can seeing a good counselor or even having some hypnotherapy to support you to shift and heal those misperceptions.

You need to be willing to continue your gratitude practice and your "feeling prayers" for as long as it takes.

I can assure you that being released from the burden of your old limiting beliefs and misperceptions gives a joyful and a liberating feeling which is more than worth whatever work you do to get it! In addition, the truth is that you can’t really step into being a co-creator without attending to this part of the inner journey.

Dealing With Distractions

The Dance Between The Ego And The Spiritual

The first challenge we face as we step more fully onto the path of co-creation is the many distractions that fill our world. Distractions abound around us. In fact, in very many ways, distraction is the primary focus of the culture at large! Think about it, how much of our collective time is spent with following the cast of a reality show, endlessly texting, spending hours on social media, video gaming, or consuming alcohol, junk food and other numbing agents? Most of these pursuits can be relatively harmless if done in a limited, mindful and conscious way. However, if they are used to “make us feel good” or to keep us “unconscious” and distracted from the deepest core of how we feel, then they are in direct conflict with our purpose of becoming a co-creator.

The work of changing perceptions and beliefs is also an excellent way to keeping the needs and urges of the ego in check. For instance, becoming a conscious cocreator isn’t a path to evade the bumps that life may provide. You may still get sick, lose a loved one or have another of life’s “hard knocks.” This path isn’t an escape from reality; it is a transformation of reality! It is about learning to respond rather than react to life and in so doing change the environment in which we all live!

Are your desires a way to escape reality, do “better” than someone else or evade a consequence? If these emotional threads are present, there is a good chance that the desires are coming from ego.

Spiritual resources such as meditation or the shamanic

journey process can be used to discern the difference between your ego and divine self. With your sacred support, you will learn the different “voices” of ego and the divine self. You can also develop awareness about when and how each of them speaks to you. As you begin to recognize the non-beneficial aspects of ego that hold you in old ways of being you can dismantle them by doing more inner landscape work. Often, the urges of the ego are connected to relieving or subjugating a fear. The fear may be about failure, being not good enough or of being unlovable.

In any case, by attending to healing of these fears, it is possible to be truly released from them instead of seeking temporary relief! Be courageous and “Go for it!”

Dealing With Disappointment And Impatience Becoming a co-creator doesn’t sanction you to “get everything you want” at least not immediately or all at once! You have to become committed to the inner changes, continually redirecting yourself when you wander from the path and being willing to keep being/ doing in this new way for as long as it takes! As I said last issue, “Changing one’s life is a warrior’s journey.

It is a series of choices that you make each day, in every moment that will eventually reveal your desired results—often in an unexpected form. In making those choices, you are living your new vision of yourself right now!” Let go of how and when the desired results will manifest. This is called “letting go of outcome.”

When you feel the tugs of disappointment because something that you are focused upon hasn’t happened, this “mantra” of mine may be helpful! “I trust that (Insert your Divine desire here) is already manifesting in ways that I can’t yet see.” This is a way to move through the emotional turbulence that anger; jealousy, impatience and disappointment create. Remember with compassion that these feelings are old habits and usually reveal another layer of inner landscape work that needs to be attended to. Feel them, acknowledge what they are showing you about your perceptions, and then transmute them by attending to your gratitude practice. If possible, also get yourself outside. Practicing gratitude while outside in the natural world, we more easily “reset” ourselves to the harmonious vibrations of creation.

Once you are “reset” by gratitude, refocus your intentions and make sure you are focused on the feelings that your desired outcome is already manifested. These feelings are critical as they can generate a result that provides an unexpected path toward the desired reality.

Remember, the spirits of All That Is (and your own divine self) may have something in mind even more glorious than your mind can imagine, so always focus on simply feeling it in this present moment.

Be both patient with yourself and tenacious about your inner transformational work. Each of us that are walking this path are changing the world—right now—even when we can’t always see it. Becoming conscious co-creators offers us the best hope for

Continued on Page 41

Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 9

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n the last issue of Inner Tapestry, I shared how each of us is participating in the manifestation of our current reality by continually dreaming the world into being with our thoughts and feelings. Our human collective largely does this manifesting in an unconscious way and I suggested that it was time for us to become conscious co-creators. That is, performing the sacred dreaming of reality that shamans have known and practiced for millennia. They have done this by aligning themselves with compassionate spirits in Nature and learning to look through the lens of the heart. That is, by learning how to work with the inner technology of their feelings!

Envisioning ourselves and the world in a certain way has produced the life that we see around us. Transforming that requires developing relationships with nature and taking responsibility for our thoughts and feelings. I call this “working the ground of the inner landscape.” Since our outer world is a direct reflection of our inner landscape and it is the only place we can truly affect change, the work within ourselves is critical to our “success” as co-creators.

To review, the steps (1) to accomplish becoming a conscious co-creator involves working in the Inner Environment through: developing a gratitude practice, observing limiting perceptions without judgment of the self, changing your mind/heart, learning that affirmative feelings make the difference and repeating these steps everyday!

The entire process involves aligning yourself with the harmonious vibrations of gratitude, observing and then transforming your limiting beliefs and being persistent!

Becoming a conscious co-creator is a process of change and evolution inside of the self. For this reason, you must continually attend to the work of transforming those perceptions that limit your ability to create the life that you desire and changing your “mind” so that gratitude becomes your emotional “baseline.”

This daily consistency is critical as our individual and collective limiting beliefs have been around for a long while.

To replace your “that old reality” with a new one takes some time and patience, but even more it takes courage. You need to be willing to continue your gratitude practice and your “feeling prayers” for as long as it takes. Last issue, I suggested, “Changing one’s life is a warrior’s journey. It is a series of choices that you make each day, in every moment that will eventually reveal your desired results—often in an unexpected form. In making those choices, you are living your new vision of yourself right now!”

With this column, my focus is on how to be with and in this sacred dreaming process each day.

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ON THE COVER Let There Be Peace On Earth...

by Diane English Welcome everyone to the wonderful world of this talented artist, Diane English. Diane, believe it or not is a self taught artist, who at mid-life, took a chance and followed her dream of combining art and her spiritual journey. Thank goodness for people who follow their hearts! Diane brings to us a lightness and humor to carry us through those rough and tumbled times. She is the creator of a wonderful website called "The Great Cosmic Happy-Ass" (www.greatcosmichappyass.com). It is the home to many of the helpers that continue to give her inspiration and love to continue in this endeavor and the encouragement to sometimes even become a bit more "serious," though not heavy, (www.dianeenglish.com which shows her most recent work).

When you are in need of some inspiration, motivation or a sincere connection and pick-me-up a visit to Diane's site is just what is needed.

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In Diane's words she has survived countless spiritual crises; have managed to see the occasional "light"; and discovered the secret of Higher Consciousness along the way. Yes, after years of deep meditation, medication, fasting, prayer and a few bottles of Merlot she now knows the secret to enlightenment is being in the "Now" with a piece of rich, dark chocolate! Who can ask for anything more?

From this website, www.greatcosmichappyass.com Diane sells her original designs as posters, greeting cards, magnets and assorted cool stuff. They also can be found in galleries and bookstores across the world. Her slogan is "Creating Art For The Spiritually Challenged," and as you enter her site you'll even find a floating guru— just waiting for your arrival.

Diane's most recent addition is her new website www.dianeenglish.com.

Here you will find a new collection of original paintings.

"All around us, messages from a universal consciousness are entering the mainstream, prompting us to wake up to a higher level of awareness. We are collectively reconnecting, reawakening and rediscovering our evolution as spiritual beings."

10 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

This latest work Something Wonderful is Happening, is the result of Diane's awakening to a world of "light" - "lightness" color and joy.

She has found that underneath us all is a loving, creative, playful spiritual being. She is tapping into this truth to help us uncover our truest potential and help with the transformation that is inevitable. The question lies... How will we bring that forth for ourselves?

Diane would say that this is a more serious step for her, moving her forward but as I am with this new work, I just feel a greater level of sincerity allowing her to grow into more of her calling.

"I recognized I had to create larger pieces expressing not only my own spiritual growth but also the transformation in thought I see happening around the entire Planet.” The new artwork also parallels a more personal artistic journey that, over the years, has taken Diane English from self-taught artist to successful entrepreneur to designer of her irreverently original (and wildly successful) greeting card designs that have sold in bookstores and galleries nationwide. “The cards were cartoons that let me play with the truth,” says English.

“With this new collection, I’m listening more closely to my voice. This artwork is much larger in size and the messages are coming from a much deeper level - more direct, richer, more powerful.”

Thank you Diane for your wonderful expression of what we all struggle with, keeping our lives sincere, without it getting so heavy. You can contact Diane through either of her websites, she willingly accepts comments, ideas, rants or anything you'd like to get off your chest. Oh, and don't forget to get your free down load! A full sheet of HUG COUPONS!

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Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 11

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Enjoy reading this issue of Inner Tapestry!

12

Self Awakening Healing Groups

with Ron and Joan

Unwind... Body & Mind

269 Church St. (Rte 85), Hebron, CT

Tuesdays $20 6:30pm - 8:00pm

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December 1st, 15th & 29th January 5th & 19th February 2nd, & 16th

12 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

Reservations & Information

Call 860-655-5500

Space is limited so call first and come as often as you choose!

visit: www.ronandjoan.com

13

Through the Darkness, Into the Light

by Dr. Kevin Ross Emery People with near-death experiences describe "going to the light" and coming back again. They were turned away at the cross-over point because it was not yet their time We use light as a representation of all that is good. It’s a symbol of what we each hope to reach in our lifetime. Yet, each winter we reach the darkest day of the year and began that return back to light.

When you experience that each year, is the dark so bad? If so, why?

Growing up in Maine, I associated the dark days with cold weather. The darkness also limited my after-school playtime. Winter was a time of less fun and more serious pursuits such as learning (not so bad), testing (moderately horrible) and definable judgments (grades) suggesting how smart you were.

Of course, some people are “snow bunnies.” They enjoy skiing, snowboarding, skating and other winter sports. Despite the shorter days, they look forward to cold weather. I have even heard people profess that winter is their favorite time of year.

They don’t mind the darkness.

That’s made me wonder if maybe – just maybe – the darkness has just as much to offer as the light, if we use it right.

Winter, with its increased darkness and cold, is a time of reflection and hibernation. It’s a time to rest and allow ourselves to be somewhat dormant, like the land. Sure, there are still things that need to be done. However, winter is a great time to catch up on one’s sleep. It’s a time to review, renew and plan changes.

As the days get longer and the weather becomes more gentle, spring is there to help us with new beginnings.

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Despite Nature’s obvious message, to rest and review, many of us fight the darkness. We go against the rhythms of nature and life. To maintain our hectic pace, we fight the elements and use stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine to keep going.

We use artificial lights and try to act as if the days aren’t really shorter or darker.

We fear the darkness. The question is: Why? “Night time sharpens, heightens, each sensation. Darkness wakes and stirs imagination.” Those open the song “The Music of the Night” from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical, The Phantom of The Opera.

That song reminds me how easy it is to fall in love with the night.

Other lyrics in that musical refer to the power of the night. Truly, there is power in night, in darkness, and even in the void. It’s a place that strips away illusion. It allows us to return to a purer self... a self we cannot find in the brightness of daylight.

Our annual plunge into longer and darker days is an opportunity. We can rest the mind and body as well as detoxify the heart and soul. It’s a built-in time of renewal, given to us by a generous God who understands us better than we understand ourselves.

Sadly, we throw away this opportunity each year as we are motivated by needs around approval and acceptance or perceptions of being better loved or even liked. Added to that are the fears of silence, death and what we might hear in that silence. A fear of what we might discover about ourselves, loved ones or even in the world in general if we allow ourselves to surrender. Release all we know as truth to see what truth comes back to us at the end of the journey.

Later in Webber’s musical we are told to close our eyes and give in to the power of the night.

In my classes, I often use this music as a teaching tool. I tell my students not to hear these words uttered by the Phantom but by their own quiet inner voice of guidance and intuition. It’s that inner voice that gets drowned out in the hustle and bustle of daily living.

Hear the words as if they were spoken by your own inner voice. The music that sets you free is the music of divine flow, collective consciousness, and your soul’s purpose.

The darkness of winter is an ideal time to disconnect from the Borg, step out of the Matrix and get off the race track. Allow yourself to drift into the void of your own unconscious.

Will you take this inner journey to see who you are, why you are here, and where your next step is? Or, will you continue to flee the darkness and the important insights it can offer you?

Dr. Kevin Ross Emery is a popular author, psychic, coach, consultant and teacher. Dr. Kevin travels internationally, offering lectures and workshops to empower people from all walks of life. He’s also available for phone (and Skype) consultations. Dr. Kevin’s primary practices are in Portland, Maine and Haverhill, Massachusetts. Visit his website at http://www.WebOfLight.com for additional articles, as well as his affiliate program. Join Dr Kevin on his weekly radio show: “Outside the Box with Dr. Kevin” at http://www.weboflight.com.

Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 13

14

The Journey of Embracing Your Pets

by Donald and Sara Hassler

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ost of us know the general definition of "Embracement" simply means a type of adoption or acceptance of something. However over time, many terms morph and evolve and their definitions take on a deeper meaning. For instance, Roget’s II (1995) The New Thesaurus, Third Edition describes Embracement as, “A ready taking up of something, adoption, espousal; to include as part of something broader, to take up willingly or eagerly: embrace a social cause.” For one senior lecturer at the Anglia Ruskin University in Chelmsford UK, Ambra Burls, Embracement has a symbolic meaning—a social and personal growth process.* At times some people experience marginalization from society and experience a general feeling of powerlessness in their world. There is a process that can reverse this feeling of unimportance and allow room for growth. When a person emerges into a new situation that is influenced by internal and external factors, their progress depends on their personal strengths and the opportunities or threats that they encounter on their journey.*

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People who are encouraged to grow; given the tools for development, are supported, coached, and trained; and who experience social inclusion by those around them, are likely to experience tremendous personal growth. Social competence alone can be a driving force for a person developing a sense of self/ place and healthy levels of self-esteem. People also benefit from their ability to learn new skills, understand what responsibility is, how to be accepting, learning to be satisfied and how to be a companion to another. These types of social exchanges encourages a thrust of personal growth and development that can lead a person into Embracement—the ability to be a part of something broader, willingly and eagerly.* If we consider all aspects of our social network, we could imagine that our pets play an enormous role in leading us to Embracement. They support us, coach us on how to love, train us when to love, and always include us in their social plans.

Their acceptance of us encourages us to be socially competent and we are more open to talking to strangers and being social if our pets are by our side. Our pet’s unconditional acceptance of us gives us a sense of self/place and a very warm and fuzzy level of self-esteem, too.

So what do we do to Embrace (otherwise known as adopt/accept) our animal companions? We can look to redefine the term Responsible Pet Owner, grow to be their masters and give back to them as much as they give to us.

make it possible for novice and experienced pet owners to walk tall, learn and grow into Responsible Pet Owners. Pet mentors help us Embrace our pet ownership journey. They act as role models and guides to understanding that it’s not enough to own our pets, its that we need to learn to own the responsibility of our pet’s lives.

We can learn to be Responsible Pet Owners anytime, day or night, early or later in life. It’s not when we choose that’s important, it’s our choice that defines us.

And if we define ourselves as Responsible Pet Owners, then we undeniably take part in something broader. We eagerly and willingly are redefining the social cause that protects our pets and animal companions. As a collective group, Responsible Pet Owners, set the model and lead by example. This good example automatically applies positive social pressure for the next pet owner in line to step up, walk their path and travel their journey to learning to be responsible for their pet’s life.

Each time this happens, one by one, we change and redefine ourselves and our relationships with our pets, and we protect the well-being of animal companions everywhere.

Embrace yourself, your journey and your pet! Enjoy being a Pet Mentor to someone and enjoy being mentored by another. Thank you for spending time with us this year reading our articles, writing to us and sharing your stories. We wish everyone a very happy holiday and a wonderful start to a new year! May your year-end be enlightening, engaging and may you enjoy the journey of Embracing your pets! * www.embracement.org: Senior Lecturer: Anglia Ruskin University – Chelmsford UK, Ambra Burls R.M.N., CPN, BSc (Hons), PGCE, MA, TSOLW, MALT, NMC Registered http://www.embracement.org/english/home_english.htm **Source: Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary (www.merriam-webster.com)

Donald and Sara Hassler are co-authors of the award-winning children’s book, Loving Marley, and reside in Connecticut with Marley and Belle,the real-life inspiration for the PugTale Adventures storybooks: www.lovingmarley.com. The Hasslers are active members of the press and write exclusive feature articles for several publications. Their columns are also published in Pug Talk Magazine. Visit them online at www.responsiblepetowner.com.

Defining the Term – Responsible Pet Owner If we examine each word we understand that: "Responsibility" refers to: the quality or state of being responsible morally, legally and with mental accountability. ** "Pet" is described as: domestic animals kept for pleasure as well as the pampered, spoiled child or someone who is treated with unusual kindness and consideration.** "Owner" has a definition of: individuals who want control and mastery over.** We could consider that with the above definitions a Responsible Pet Owner is: An individual who is responsible morally, legally and with mental accountability to a domestic animal where they maintain complete control and mastery over pampering, spoiling and treating their pet with unusual kindness and consideration.

Though moral and legal obligation, pampering and kindness may not be enough to make someone a Responsible Pet Owner—the desire to do so does. The unusual acts of kindness and love, that our pets shower on us, and we return to them, creates the bond that drives us as pet owners into wanting to become Responsible Pet Owners.

Love fosters a feeling of commitment and sharing heartfelt kindness and emotions compels us to want to care for those we love. By focusing on that loving bond and nurturing it, we eagerly and willingly adopt and accept or Embrace our pets.

Because the very nature of Embracement is defined by some as a symbolic process by which people grow and develop, becoming a Responsible Pet Owner is therefore a journey in itself. With all new experiences, we begin with awkward steps, learn and then grow. Embarking on the quest of discovering what our responsibilities are as pet owners can be done with the aide of supportive coaching and/or training. Having a Pet Mentor is one way pet owners can feel that their journey is socially acceptable. Like new parents of human babies, it’s natural to reach out to another parent, ask questions, share experiences and listen to each other’s stories. The same is true for people who are hoping to become good pet parents, too. A Pet Mentor can pick up the pieces when everything seems to have been shoved off the table by a big furry tail. They can listen to a new pet parent’s concerns about the four paws that rest on their laps and they can offer consolation and advice if needed.

These Pet Mentors act as tour guides on this type of developmental journey. They 14 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

Wisdom usually does not fall from high places.

The mighty and the splendid have taught me little.

I have learned more from my dog than from all the great books I have read.

The wisdom of my dog is the product of his inability to conceal his wants.

When he yearns to be loved, there is no pouting in the corner.

There are no games entitled "Guess what is the matter with me."

He puts his head on my lap, wags his tail and looks up at me with kind eyes, waiting to be petted.

No professor or sage ever told me I might live a more successful life if I simply asked for love when I needed it. ...Gerry Spence

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t h e w ay o f lif e - its e l f

WITH EMBODIED MIND WE EXPERIENCE THE LIVING REALITY

by Skye Hirst, Ph.D.

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memorizing, categorizing, and manipulating facts into statistics, etc. as if we humans learn about the world by building a representation of an objective outside world into our brains in order to know how to act.

However, the work of Autopoiesis (self-making) Varela and others point out that living organisms form within “infomare” a reality created by acts of autonomy and connectedness. There are infinite of infinite inner relations of relations that form and maintain our identity. How this does so is part of the miracle of discovery that is now occurring in disciplines more outside the box than in, but nevertheless the laboratories are doing good work to reveal these inner processes of self-making, self healing and self-knowing.

(See the work of ISSSEEM and the scholarship of Mae Wan Ho and Beverly Rubik).

Life as organism begins to help make some sense of what is being discovered. We are organisms within living organisms, all self-creating by a common ground of coherent value dynamics. In the movie K-PAX, the visitor from K-PAX says “every living being in the universe knows right from wrong.” Now biophysics and energy medicine help us to know this just might be true, that in each living entity, in humans, in animals, in even molecules and sub molecular molecules are universal value dynamics enabling the harmony and co-creating reality of life.

Life forms itself into societies of organisms; for instance cells in the body, communities, families, cultures, etc. These dynamic value driven processes are all connected through inner relations of relations of these processes. Various kinds of values have a vibrational frequency associated to them, lets say, and we sense these values through a “felt sense” awareness. (See Eugene Gendlin’s book on Focusing). This sense guides the organism in finding effective actions for itself and in relating to others, like cells in a giant sea of organisms. For instance there appears to be a love vibration, a hate vibration, one of inclusion, of separation etc., which signal to the organism (whether cell, molecule or human being) what action is required in any given context to live, to thrive. These value dynamics may well be like laws of coherence that maintain coherence throughout individual organisms and between them. These laws give maximum freedom to express, create, to find the most effective action in each context of living bounded only by the identity of each organism. Notice the magic here is that we are both autonomous and connected at the same time.

The Baby Embraces life as a wholeness...

Continued on Page 45

Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 15

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t is common today for us to hear the question. "Where is the meaning to life?"

To experience meaning our living natures require a connection to more than the day-to-day realities of the physical world; a narrow focus on the bottom line; fragmented, isolated facts/statistics/details; etc. It requires an embracement, an embodied experiencing of our living reality as it relates to something more spiritual in nature.

When did we get so disconnected and fragmented? The first thirty-five years of the 1900's were a magic time. Science and religion were both still connected to a more holistic worldview. Then philosophies—scientific disciplines combined with religious beliefs and mythologies over the ages—wove a reality that has created a split between body and mind, between heart and head, between science and religion; a reality that leaves out the subjective reality where meaning is found.

During the early 1900's philosopher, William James concluded in The Varieties of Religious Experience that what is common to all religious life as the following: 1) That the visible world is part of a more spiritual universe from which it draws its chief significance; 2) That union or harmonious relation with that higher universe is our true end.

And he ads, that all religions include the following psychological characteristics: 1) A new zest, which adds itself like a gift to life, and takes the form either of lyrical enchantment or of appeal to earnestness and heroism.

2) An assurance of safety and a temper of peace.

3) In relations to others, a preponderance of loving affections.

In the 1930’s many leading scientists of the time thought like Robert Hutchinson (Former President of University of Chicago) who wrote: "Science is not the collection of facts or the accumulation of data. A discipline does not become scientific merely because its professors have acquired a great deal of information. Facts do not arrange themselves.

Facts do not solve problems. I do not wish to be misunderstood. We must get the facts. We must get them all… But at the same time we must raise the question whether facts alone will settle our difficulties for us. And we must raise the question whether… the accumulation and distribution of facts is likely to lead us through the mazes of a world whose complications have been produced by the facts we have discovered. The gadgeteers and data collectors, masquerading as scientists, have threatened to become the supreme chieftains of the scholarly world."

Between the science of gadgeteers and losing touch with our own inner sense of knowing ourselves, we’ve lost our rudders for finding effective action in a living reality.

Fortunately we are working our way through to the new paradigm, sorting out what works and what doesn’t work for a living reality. As Varela, Thompson and Rosch point out in their book The Embodied Mind, (review written by John Jones below) …"we have been pushed into competing subjective realities, leaving us with the feeling that there is either a stable world, or there is only representations; that is, realist and subjectivist assumptions. Without our even knowing it this split in science, as it has been, has managed to make choices for us and we have surrendered our own knowing of experience to that of a science which dissects and attempts to reduce everything down to the smallest particle in hopes of understanding it.

"For example, in the study of cognitivism researchers have tried to identify symbol-processes in the brain that would explain all human experience. Failing to do so, cognitivists have sought other means to explain what happens by emergence, or connectionism, attempting to deal with some of the problems posed by cognitivism by suggesting that the phenomena of mind emerges out of the numerous simple, biological processes that make up the brain.

"However, Varela, et al argue that neither cognitivism nor emergence can deal with the failure of science to find the source of the self, and that both flounder when they attempt to account for the role of the outside world in cognition."

What the science of the past has done is to take away our trust in our own subjective experience embodied in our organism self. Even our education system has us

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t he 2 1 s t c e ntu ry b o h e m i a n

A Conversation with Shakti Gawain

Celebrating a Creative Visualization Milestone ~ Part Two

by Teresa Piccari Welcome everyone, to part two of my interview with Shakti Gawain.

For those of you who missed part one visit www.innertapestry.org to find this article in its entirety.

IT: You have a strong dance background. Can you relate how art has fed your spirituality or how art can tap into a different place in our consciousness?

SG: I think anything we’re drawn to first of all we need to trust that there’s a reason why we feel a pull in that direction. To really trust and allow our creative energy to come through in whatever way it’s trying to do. I know sometimes I get messages from my inner guidance to do things and I think, "How can I do that?" It’s like the singing thing. I’m not that accomplished as a singer so how could I put myself out there in front of people? But it’s so much fun! And for me to go for the fun because I’ve mostly been a fairly serious person, it’s like, you know, I’ve had the weight of the world on my shoulders here trying to make as much of a difference as I can.

IT: Well, I hope you continue to have more fun.

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SG: Definitely. That’s why we say these disowned parts of ourselves, or the shadow side, doesn’t necessarily mean they are negative. The shadow part of me could be the part of me that didn’t get to have a lot of fun because I was always so serious. You see what I mean?

IT: So allowing yourself to have fun is reclaiming a disconnected part of yourself that being serious didn’t allow?

SG: When it comes to owning our shadow side, that's what we’ve repressed because we can’t do something or we think it’s bad or that we should be a certain way. Really, it’s about claiming all of who we are. Because each part has a function and if we aren’t actively in touch with that and letting it have a place in our lives, we’re missing out on something important. Your disowned selves are always the best medicine. They are the medicine we need right now. They’re the prescription life is giving us. Often it comes in the form of actual illness. Sometimes it takes something like that to process some patterns that aren’t working. Breaking a pattern of pushing too hard, for example.

IT: What one piece of simple advice would you offer someone who is just beginning their spiritual journey?

SG: Well, I want to say I’d tell them to read Creative Visualization. And after that to read Living in the Light and... really I’m joking, but I frequently run into people or have them tell me your books were among the first along this line they’ve read, or that they helped them get started. Creative Visualization is written in a very simple style and has a lot of exercises that are easy to do. It’s easy to understand and learn from it, a good starting place. Other than that I would say there are a lot of resources available today on the spiritual and psychological level and if you feel drawn toward a teacher or a workshop, check it out and see if it feels right to you. But know that what feels right for you now may not feel right at another time. I think we get involved in things and we learn and grow from them but then it’s time to move on to the next thing but we don’t always know that.

Essentially, trust your gut feeling about what might help you and be of value. We all have an inner guidance and I try to encourage people to listen to that.

IT: What about a teacher or guru versus listening to ourselves or being our own guru? And how you know when it’s time to let go of the teacher and move on?

SG: It’s kind of like the process of being a child and growing up. First of all you don’t need to have a person as a teacher. Most of us generally find teachers, whether they are spiritual teachers or therapists or books. We all have sources of learning. But it’s not necessary to have a teacher that you look up to or put on a pedestal, although it is natural when we’re new at this. It can be very helpful but it can also be destructive if you hang on too long. The Eastern and Western spiritual traditions can be helpful but they can also be dangerous. So I try to support people in paying attention to their own gut feelings about things and their own inner sense or wisdom of what’s true.

Often that takes us to a teacher who has something to offer us for a while. But we have to know when to move on and often, that’s not easy.

16 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

IT: What surprises you in life?

SG: I have to say honestly what comes up for me, and there’ve been lots of things that have surprised me in life, but I think I’ve been surprised at the degree of challenge life brings. Creative Visualization, my first book, was my personal entrance into the world of personal growth. I was just discovering so many interesting things and a lot of it seemed to come pretty easily. It wasn’t until later that I found out how challenging it can really be. In my later books you see a real difference in the content.

They are all valuable but Creative Visualization takes the simplicity of the process and presents it in a way that is easy for people to do. I feel like when I write a book it’s my way of completing that stage of my growth and moving onto whatever is next. The material has gotten more complex. I think it’s still pretty easy to read but I think I realized that life is more challenging than I expected.

IT: Do you hear from people who are impacted, affected and inspired by Creative Visualization?

SG: I do and especially about Creative Visualization. I get letters and emails from people all over the world who have been helped somewhat by my work.

It’s very gratifying to me and makes me very happy because I certainly didn’t plan that or know that was going to happen. It all just kind of unfolded in a rather magical way.

IT: From a spiritual perspective when we talk about doing our ego work and realizing that we’re not separate, that we are all connected and that sense of oneness – I would think Creative Visualization must give you a real sense of how that connectedness works. To have reached so many people.

SG: Yes, as I said, I’m so grateful. I feel like I was granted this opportunity in this life to be able to learn and share what I learn in a way that’s been meaningful to people. I feel very blessed that I have had that opportunity. It hasn’t always been easy but it definitely felt very worthwhile. As many times as it’s happened that people have come up to me and said, "I love your books" – it still feels really good.

Even though I know it’s all just coming through me. Most of the time I had no idea really what I was doing. I was taking it a step at a time but the fact that in the process it’s helped other people makes me really happy and fulfilled, in that aspect of my life. And it’s really a surprise, I really wouldn’t have known. Although, I did have the experience as a kid that I loved to read. I was a total bookworm. I used to love going to the library and I used to imagine that someday there would be a shelf full of books written by me. I didn’t realize until much later in my adulthood, after I’d written a couple of books, that I was actually living out in my child fantasy. I mean, as a kid I was always reading about horses and dogs. I never would have known I would have this content. But I really was creatively visualizing my books being read and published and I didn’t even realize until later that it was in my childhood visualization. It’s all been like a shock in a way. I never in a million years would have thought I would have written a best-selling book. Actually, it’s never been out of print in 30 years and has sold really well and is in all different languages all over the world.

Visit Shakti Gawain online at www.shaktigawain.com or get information on her books at www.newworldlibrary.com.

Teresa Piccari is a writer and teacher living in coastal Maine. She is the proprietor of The Village Scribe, a professional writing and editing business at The Wellness Center in Camden, Maine. Teresa teaches creative process and writing workshops including Creative Writing, Memoir and Mythic Structure. She also runs the Ducktrap Writers’ Round Table which meets monthly at the Camden Public Library.

Contact Teresa at TheVillageScribe@hotmail.com or at 207-344-7070.

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d estinat io n he alin g ~ s ou t h e r n n ew e n g l a n d

Embracing Intuition: An Interview with Carolyn Myss

by Karen M. Rider

Griswold, Connecticut

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pioneer in Energy Medicine, Caroline Myss, Ph.D., has a documented 93% accuracy rate for diagnosing a variety of illnesses using her intuitive abilities. She has authored six books; three were New York Times best-sellers. With Dr. Norm Shealy, she developed the Institute for the Science of Medical Intuition and now has her own educational institute through which she teaches courses on intuition, healing and mysticism. In this interview, Caroline describes the work of a medical intuitive and shares her thoughts on the intuitive potential of every person and the living with grace.

KR: What is medical intuition (MI)?

CM: Medical intuition is not a skill of the reasonable mind, the intellect. It’s an energetic skill. Medical Intuition is the capacity to intuit the quality of a person’s health with great precision.

KR: How does it work?

KR: I never really thought about how it works. It does exist, it’s innate, a part of who I am.

CM: Exactly. You don’t have to think about it; it’s a sense that is beyond thought, logic, and the rational mind. So, mother’s intuition, all intuition, is a higher functioning sense than the lower five senses.

Now, I can speak only to my own experiences [with medical intuition] performing readings and teaching others to develop the skill. A medical intuitive must know how to read symbolic language, impressions that come at the speed of light—energy information does that, that fast. An intuitive discerns what the information represents in relation to the person’s health and the root of illness. Intuitives must remain impersonal, emotionally detached from the information received. There can be no ego involved if the intuitive is to be able to read a person and discern the history and story that this energetic information is telling through the body. Your biography is your biology.

KR: What do you mean, “biography is biology?”

CM: This realm [energy, intuition] is as complex as physical medicine. And, it is rich… but it moves faster than the physical and is less tangible—it is the domain of your thoughts, beliefs, perceptions, your experiences, your spiritual journey and the unfolding of your soul… and it is stored in your body.

KR: Is everyone intuitive?

CM: Everyone is intuitive or has the capacity for intuition; not everyone has the discipline it takes to develop intuitive skills. Over 12 years, under the medical supervision of Harvard brain surgeon, Dr. Norm Shealy, I performed more than 10,000 readings—six a day—all validated via allopathic medicine.

CM: It is. It is a profession. But, a lot has shifted [since I first started]. Norm coined the professional term “Medical Intuitive” while we were writing the book The Creation of Health. A lot of people started to claim they had the skill, medical intuition: [we were concerned about how to protect the patient.] So, Norm and I started a scientific board for MI, a certification program. Under medical supervision and through practical diagnosis of real patients, physicians certify that the necessary skills are present. I have never strayed from allopathic medicine.

"Your biography is your biology."

My opinion is that no one should just claim to have this skill… they should be certified by medical professionals.

Anything less is irresponsible. Medical Intuitives do not practice medicine, cannot discuss treatment, and cannot discuss the parameters of an illness.

We shouldn’t mess with people’s lives when they are vulnerable and ill.

If you claim you are a Medical Intuitive, you are responsible for what you say to a patient. An intuitive must be able to tell a patient “In my opinion, this is what is forming in your body. Now, go to your physician.” I can tell you if you buried a rape in your body and it has everything to do with your endometriosis; now, go to your doctor [for verification].

KR: When are physicians most likely to consult with a Medical Intuitive?

CM: Usually, when a patient’s condition puzzles the physician; when they’re not healing as expected or the cause is elusive. It’s up to the patient to use what they learn from an intuitive reading and to work with the health care providers—physicians, nurses, therapists—to move the body, the mind and the spirit toward healing.

let’s use the word self-esteem. When someone cuts in front of you in line, that’s disempowerment. It’s a blow to your self-esteem. Everything is about power…

The fear of being humiliated controls every single one of us—until a person develops a deep sense of self-esteem. And, not the superficial level of material possessions that people use to protect themselves from humiliation… the big house, fancy car, all the stuff.

The thin line is as wide as the universe between humiliation and being humble. People often misunderstand what it is to be humble. To be humble is to not need approval from any other person. When you close your eyes and ask God, “What do you want me to do?” and your first thought is not “What will people say…?” but is “O.K., God, I will.” That’s power. That’s self-esteem. That’s standing in your own power. When you lose that over and over again, you become vulnerable to crisis—[physical, mental, emotional, spiritual.]

KR: If loss of personal power via emotional or spiritual dis-ease is the root of illness, how do you account for things like super-bugs, or genetic factors? What about terminal illness in children?

CM: Certainly, these contribute to illness. If illness were just a matter of negative thinking, many more people would be seriously ill because there are more negative people than positive minded people in the world. There’s no way to generalize because of the great variation in health habits among individuals.

We Westerners want to make everything simple. In reality, there is not one simple reason for why things happen as they do: You think an illness is a bad thing; you think every child is innocent; you think if I’m a good person bad things should not happen. This is the error of logical thinking about spiritual matters.

In order to control spontaneous chaotic suffering, we created a behavioral dynamic: “If I do X, bad things won’t happen—illness, loss, whatever.” What you’re doing is trying to cooperate with karma, manipulate it, even.

The Hammurabi’s Code, an eye for an eye, got projected onto the cosmos… to the way God works.

When bad things happen – that is, whatever you consider to be bad—you ask, “What did I do wrong?”

And, if you survive the bad thing, then you’ve been rewarded. There must be some great meaning to your survival. No. You survived. Period. That’s enough.

You can’t believe that all things in life are lessons and the lessons start when you turn 21. That is completely ridiculous. What is Divine is not limited by

Continued on Page 45

KR: How should a person prepare for a medical intuitive consultation and what should happen after?

CM: Interview the person, to find out about their experience, doctors they have worked with, kinds of cases they've had, and so on. Also, they should have a "cosmic platform" – not be blinded by religion or dogma— and show respect that all journeys to the divine are sacred. After seeing a medical intuitive, go back to your doctor. Take responsibility for what you’ve learned and for your medical care.

KR: In your books you state that “human beings are inherently here to heal” and that “a loss of health is a loss of power.” What does this mean?

INNER TAPESTRY 5 Laurel Ridge Road Scarborough, ME 04074 207-799-7995 info@innertapestry.org www.innertapestry.org

CM: Everything in life is an engagement of power—but Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 17

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CM: We always want to know that, don’t we? That’s the rational mind.

First, you have to understand that there are mystical laws and there are physical laws. MI operates according to the mystical laws. There is still cause and effect, but mystical laws operate without the factors of time and space. There is no geography… so distance is not an issue for intuitive readings.

Second, we are a body-mind medicine world; we don’t go anywhere near the spirit, which is the realm of medical intuition. In our society, we say “energy” not “spirit.” We have to move beyond this. Intuition is a higher functioning energetic sense.

Karen, let me ask you something. You’re a mother.

How does a mother’s intuition work?

KR: In 1996, you stated the skill of medical intuition was just emerging and you hoped it would become a profession. Has this vision been fulfilled?

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a b rea th o f he a l i n g

Embrace The Moment

by Donna Amrita Davidge

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e may have all heard this before: “Embrace the moment,” but what exactly does that mean to you today? For many people, embracing the moment in the current climate is something that seems impossible. It seemed easier when they had a job, thought they had their retirement set and had health insurance.

And now they don’t have these things. That is the reality for many. People are losing homes, the pressures strain relationships and loving families have to give their pets up to shelters. Are these things we can embrace? What does it mean to embrace them? "Embrace" brings up images of loving joy in receiving something that makes us happy. How can we embrace the Now if it is filled with uncertainty?

The truth is that there is no certainty for anyone. I have seen friends who are married to men with lots of money, seemingly having all they want, beautiful children especially, and then they get hit with life-threatening illnesses. No one is assured that anything they embrace will guarantee good fortune and health. A few years ago I was asked to teach a very wealthy businessman how to meditate.

Unfortunately his brother was dying of cancer and he said he could not meditate because it brought up thoughts of his brother. Of course it would for a learning practitioner. That is what the mind does first. To train it to observe and not judge or be freaked out by what comes up only comes with practice. Needless to say, the man gave up the sessions rather quickly. Meditation does not solve the problems; it helps our mind handles them better. Being unable to sit with his thoughts for even a minute, he gave up trying. He also said he felt like he was missing out on “doing” and all that life was when he just sat. Actually, our doing becomes more effective when we have a meditation practice and allow our minds and bodies to stop doing but just be and observe on a regular basis, ideally, the same time and place daily.

So where does yoga come into all these seemingly non-uplifting circumstances?

The test of a true yoga practitioner is not how they do when things are going great but how they do when things are not.

Recently we had the opportunity to offer our first small teacher training at Sewall House. Amidst the immersions in yoga technology and methodology we had Linda Rowe, a yoga teacher from Houlton, Maine join us to lead our discussions on Yoga Sutras; Chapters One and Two. Linda talked a lot about the lessons life gives us and that she would much prefer the “feather” lessons to the “brick” ones.

That image seemed like a good one to relate to what many people are experiencing these days in their lives. Even though most of us would opt for a feather over a brick, sometimes the brick comes sailing our way anyway.

It seems all these extreme changes in our lives may be one of the reasons yoga is catching on so much in the last few years. An ancient science comes full circle to help us look differently at the material things that have so consumed us so we can instead

look inwardly. How could being laid off be a good thing? Maybe we have had no time to really look at ourselves and our short life and what we want to be and do and give, and what is really important to us in the scheme of it all. Without health insurance we can take measures to be preventative in our own health care and reduce the risk that we'll need expensive health care if we eat healthier (which in yoga means eliminating meat), do away with alcohol and drugs, and watch even our thoughts and how they affect our health. The asanas, or poses, in yoga offer a proven way to holistically exercise the body, helping the internal organs, nerves and mind. Even if you don’t practice yoga for spiritual purposes or as a lifestyle but simply as an exercise, this can greatly benefit your mind and body, as well as your way of breathing. This is not to lessen the challenges and stress that big changes in our life can create.

These things are real. Yet in yoga we get a moment to step back and perhaps change the way we experience and look at these things. One woman at our retreat had to cut her staff at her business but said it actually helped them prioritize who was truly useful in their job. One young man discovered that the fast paced achievement, oriented life in NYC, was not helping his overall life experience, especially when he had a recurrence of a tumor that he had been free of for five years before moving into this lifestyle. He began to change his eating habits, took up yoga and even try meditation; he also decided to leave his job for six months and is on the way to creating his own job and lifestyle in his homeland of Australia, creating the way to embrace the changes that will make his life more meaningful to him as a lawyer, husband and man in our society.

Often we think our lives should be one way but circumstances arrive to urge us to see it can be another way.

Our time on earth is short. Yoga, an ancient science, has come full circle to help us handle the challenges of the information age. My teacher Yogi Bhajan suggested that the information age we are in would be tough for many. He suggested we help these people through the changes with our experiences and with the teachings of yoga that we can share with others. Ultimately it is up to the student to practice the teachings and honor the process along the way. Our job is to direct and have compassion for the oneness in us all, embracing each person as an individual on their own journey, which hopefully we can assist them with in some small way.

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18 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

Donna Amrita Davdige owns and operates Sewall House Yoga Retreat in Island Falls, Maine www.sewallhouse.com and has been studying and teaching yoga in NYC and elsewhere since the mid 80’s. Sewall House is open for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year as well as May through October with special arrangements for off-season retreats for three or more people. Sewall House is also open Presidents Day week in February when the Teacher Training continues.

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

by Jen Deraspe

Wool Rising over the Fleece Landscape

Nurture Through Nat ure Let Us Guide You Home...

Jen Deraspe, owner of Nurture Through Nature, is a holistic retreat facilitator and facilitator of The Work of Byron Katie. She lives off the grid on Pleasant Mountain in Denmark, Maine. www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929.

Pleasant Mountain, Denmark, ME

Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 19

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Fleece came of age when I did. All the hip and trendy outdoorsy types sported it. I shortly followed suit.

The fleece industry touted their New Age material as far superior to any natural fiber ever utilized, like Nestle Formula over mother’s milk. The woolen ways of my father and his father were disregarded and my tattered, well-worn wool sweater went to the back of the closet for the moths to enjoy.

Off I went to LL Bean’s, purchasing a multiple layering system of fleece as recommended. Layer upon layer was utilized to keep me warm and comfy in the outdoors.

In my ancestor’s days, all cloth was made from natural fibers, including plant sources such as cotton, flax, and hemp, and animal sources such as wool, hair, and silk. In the 20th century, these were supplemented by artificial fibers, such as my head-to-toe outdoor clothing of choice.

I refer to these clothes as my plastic clothes, since most are made from polyethylene terephthalate, also known as recycled plastic bottles. After a week in them while on expeditions, I begin to feel like a soda bottle, just a bit plast-icky.

I met an old Master Maine Guide who wouldn’t touch fleece with a 6’ paddle. He had been given some from his enlightened guests from time to time, urging him to get with the times and enter the new millennium bursting with advanced technological discoveries sure to improve his life in the outdoors. No, his wool stayed put on his back.

I respected the man, and so began to shed some of my plastic layers, trading them back in for wool to test it for myself. What I learned was that wool did not get wet in a light rain and didn’t melt from camp fire sparks. Wool kept me much warmer in the wind, the damp and the cold.

And, even better, I only needed one layer. I will admit, wool itches like crazy, so I have not given up my first wicking synthetic layer made of thermoplastic polymer, whatever that is. I like the snug fit and the drying it provides during activity.

A friend gave me an old pair of army green woolen pants, the kind with all the side pockets and parachute attachments. They are much heavier than any soda bottle pants I may wear, but are perfect for activities that involve a lot of stopping and going out in the cold. They are very toasty and block the wind tremendously.

If I am in a remote wilderness setting at the cusp of a new season, you bet I will be bringing along my favorite wool layers, be it in August, March or November. Those old guys had something figured out and I appreciate a natural choice any day of the week. Call me a hybrid traditionalist with some synthetics still favored, but the fundamental layer I trust is an old wool sweater that I don’t mind standing right next to the camp fire in.

20

The Mary Garden

by Gail Faith Edwards here is a rapidly growing movement spreading among gardeners today.

It’s called the Mary Garden. A Mary Garden is composed entirely of plants dedicated to Mary, by name, legend or history. Creating and tending a Mary Garden combines a gardener’s reverence for the Blessed Mother with the love of plants and flowers. The name “Mary Garden” comes from medieval religious art depicting the Virgin and Child in an enclosed garden amidst symbolic flowers.

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Gardeners have always been aware of the spiritual element in planting and caring for plants in a garden. A garden is a transcendent place, one that reveals many spiritual lessons over time that apply to all other aspects of our lives. Tending a Mary Garden provides the gardener with many opportunities for the sacramental encounter of experiencing Mary’s presence. And since at least the medieval times, there has been a celebrated relationship between flowers and gardens dedicated to Mary, Mother of God. Most of what we know of medieval gardens is of the herb and vegetable gardens meticulously cultivated by monastic groups. St. Benedict is known to have cultivated a rose garden, or “rosary,” way back in the 4th century. The first garden known to be dedicated to the Blessed Mother is the one planted by St. Fiacre, the Irish patron saint of gardening. St. Fiacre cultivated his Mary Garden at the hospice he built for the poor and infirm in France during the 7th century.

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In the early days of Christianity most of the faithful were illiterate peasants who worked closely with the earth through the seasons. They were deeply in tune with the earth, understood the language of nature and learned directly from Her. They developed wisdom and knowledge and grew spiritually through the imagery inspired by the earth, most especially through flowers and plants.

These images inspired by nature found their way into the grandest of cathedrals and religious art. The early Church teachers, such as St. Francis of Assisi, used flowers as a kind of textbook to help explain the mysteries, stories and teachings of Christ, the Blessed Mother and all the saints.

As Christianity spread and missionaries traveled into new lands, it was perceived as unwise to try to entirely eliminate all of the customs and rites of the pagan religions. Some of these ancient seasonal rites, celebrated for thousands of years by earth-based agricultural peoples, were enacted, at least in some part, to ensure the cohesiveness of the community. These seasonal celebrations and the plants associated with them were easily integrated into the church’s evolving liturgy and rites and it made perfect sense to relate the emerging Christian story to these ancient seasonal celebrations. Thus the holly and the Yule log, long associated with Druid winter rites, became important themes in Christian Nativity festivals among northern Europeans.

Mary’s Gold after having a vision. A recipe written in 1373 calls for seint mary gouldes, to create a potion to ward off the plague. Our Lady’s Slipper is mentioned in the herbal of Vitus Auslasser published in Germany in 1479.

During the Reformation plant names evolved again to reflect the new Protestant movement away from “worship” of Our Lady. Herbs and flowers with names such as Lady, Lady’s and Ladies are considered by most authorities to be older English plant names that once referred to Mary and became more generic during this period so as to describe any woman.

There are hundreds of plants that can be used to create your own Mary Garden and most are easy to grow or easy to find at any garden centre. They include the Marigolds, or Mary’s Gold, the Mayflower, or Mary’s Flower, and Thrift, known as Our Lady’s Pin Cushion. Canterbury Bells are called Our Lady’s Night Cap because they look like an old-fashioned nightcap, and Fuchsia is called Our Lady’s Eardrops because the flowers resemble A garden pendant earrings. Several plants whose leaves are whitespotted are said in popular legends to have derived their is a spots from drops of the Virgin’s milk which fell on them. transcendent Among these are Our Lady’s thistle, virgin’s thistle, lady’s milk or holy thistle: all names for the same plant, place, commonly called milk thistle (Silybum marianum).

one that reveals many spiritual lessons over time that apply to all other

Two flowers, above all others, are emblematic of the Blessed Virgin. They are the rose and the lily. At the Feast of the Visitation (July 2), commemorating the visit of Mary to her cousin Elizabeth, the Madonna Lily (Lilium candidum) is a symbol of Mary’s virginity, and almost all art depicting this visit has a vase of these lilies, usually with three blossoms, included. The pure white sepals represent Mary’s body and the golden anthers her soul, sparkling with divine light.

Roses, sacred to Venus, Diana and Aphrodite since the most ancient times, became known as the Emblem aspects of of Mary in the dawning Christian era. Mary is also known as the Mystical Rose. According to a well-known our lives. legend, St. Thomas, not believing the reports about the resurrection of the Virgin, had her tomb opened. Inside, instead of her body, he found the tomb filled with lilies and roses.

When St. Dominic instituted the devotion of the Rosary, he recognized this symbolism and referred to each of the Hail Mary prayers as tiny roses. The month of May, traditionally dedicated to Mary, was originally sacred to Flora, Roman goddess of flowers and of spring.

Common garden annuals considered flowers of Our Lady for planting in your Mary Garden:

The pre-Christian peoples had dearly loved gods and goddesses to whom they made offerings, presented petitions and courted favor. Jupiter, Venus, Diana, Isis, Hera, Cybele and Demeter, Pan, Athena, Daphne, Adonis, and many others were worshiped publicly in magnificent temples placed in the midst of beautifully manicured expanses such as the ones that are nearly perfectly preserved in Paestum. These gods and goddesses also had small altars dedicated to them inside of every home such as can clearly be seen in the excavations of Pompeii.

Slowly, over the ensuing centuries, Christianity, and the figures it revered, became dominant. Venus, Isis and Diana bowed before the presence of Mary and Mary absorbed into her persona all that had previously been attributed to them, including the flowers associated with them throughout the preceding millennia.

Cornflower - Mary’s Crown Forget-me-not - Eyes of Mary Impatiens - Mother Love Larkspur - Mary’s Tears Calendula/Marigold - Mary’s Gold Morning Glory - Our Lady’s Mantle Petunia - Our Lady’s Praises Poppy - Christ’s Blood Snapdragon - Infant Jesus’ Shoes Sweet Alyssum - Flower of the Cross Sweet Scabious - Mary’s Pincushion Zinnia - The Virgin

This evolutionary process happened many times with flowers and plants. Many plants that had previously been devoted to the goddesses worshiped by earthhonoring peoples carried names reflecting this. For instance, the well-known Maidenhair fern was known in Iceland as Freyje’s Hair. It’s botanical name, Adiantum capillus-veneris, tells us that it was later considered sacred to Venus.

We know it now as a plant of Our Lady.

Bulbs include: Hyacinth – symbolize the desire for peace and prudence and are dedicated to Mary Madonna Lily – symbolize Mary’s purity, motherhood and peace.

Yellow Flag Iris – the fleur-de-lis – symbol of the suffering of Mary during the Passion Tulips – Mary’s Prayer Daffodils – Mary’s Star

Our Lady opened up her arms, spread wide her cloak and absorbed them all.

Plants sacred to Venus, or her Scandinavian counterpart, Freyje, or to some other great female divinity, slowly became associated with Mary, mother of Jesus. Plants long associated with Juno, Diana, Hulda and Bertha became Our Lady’s plants.

The anemone, poppy and violet, dedicated to Venus, and the willow once sacred to Ceres, are all plants of Mary now.

Some herbs to include in your Mary Garden: Rue – Herb of Grace Milk Thistle – Our Lady’s Milk Thistle Lady’s Mantle – Our Lady’s Mantle

Calendula is the first flower known to actually be named in honor of Mary. It is said that St. Hildegard of Bingen dedicated calendula to Mary and gave it the name 20 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

Continued on Page 44

21

Herbology Today

Pain Management and Herbology

by Christopher J. Bashaw, RN

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n order to treat pain we must understand that pain management is a multibillion-dollar industry. Pain management centers are popping up everywhere in the United States. Most of these allopathic centers include in their management plans which consist of both non-invasive and invasive treatments for chronic pain. This commonly includes narcotics, seizure medications like lyrica, as well as epidural steroid injections, and even surgery.

It is not to say that individuals may not find relief from symptoms of pain with these treatments, but in my humble opinion they should not precede a more holistic approach first, something that many pain sufferers do not want to do, for it means taking charge of their own pain and treatment. And since insurance reimbursement is virtually nonexistent for these holistic modalities there is no incentive for big medical business to consider this line of defense. But what you must remember is that as a patient, you are in control of your care and you must have an investment in the outcome. This means that you, the patient, must take some responsibility in the treatment and not hand the reins over to your provider 100%; so become knowledgeable in treatment options and participate in your treatment fully so that your outcomes will improve.

Pain is subjective and the study of pain itself is much deeper than what one small article can cover; but with a combination of diet, exercise, herbs, and mindbody medicine pain associated with fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and headaches which can be managed quite effectively with a holistic approach. Those with such and similar conditions should seek management of their pain with the help of qualified practitioners. Pain is a symptom of a greater problem, so please be evaluated first to rule out serious injury or illness so that the most appropriate treatment is being prescribed. Also be aware that herbal remedies may interact with allopathic medications and both your herbalist and your medical practitioner should be aware of what you are taking.

Sax alba, known as willow bark, has been used for centuries as a pain reliever.

Willow bark contains the active ingredient salicin as well as other pain-relieving compounds, which are known to alleviate pain, lower inflammation and reduce fever. Willow bark is the precursor to aspirin, and those with aspirin allergies, or contraindications to aspirin need to follow the same precautions with willow bark.

An advantage is that willow bark does not have the noted bleeding issues commonly associated with aspirin and is noted as safe with long-term use.

An Israeli study showed that individuals who took extract containing 120- 240 mg of salicin daily showed improvement in symptoms in as little as a week. Researchers from the University of Sydney compared refecoxib, a COX-2 inhibitor, to willow bark extract. The study compared one group of 114 receiving 12.5mg of refecoxib daily and the other receiving 240mg of salicin daily. Both subjects reported a comparable reduction of back pain in four weeks.

Turmeric is another herb commonly used to treat pain associated with inflammation such as osteoarthritis. Curcumin is the compound that creates its yellow hues as well as what fights inflammation. Curcumin is a nonsteroidal approach to inflammation has not known side effects. Similar to COX-1 and Cox2 drugs, curcumin stimulates nitric oxide, a pain-reducing chemical in the body, suppressing pain. Ayuvedic medicine has used turmeric for centuries and even today there are many, effective manufactured herbal treatments for pain that tout turmeric as their main ingredient.

One of my favorite all-time herbs is cayenne, with capsaicin its active ingredient.

Applied topically in an ointment capsaicin depletes a neurochemical, substance P, that transmits pain. It is important to note that relief may take up to two weeks; treatment consists of applying a small amount of ointment to the pain site and rubbing the ointment well into the skin three to four times daily. It is also important to note that for the initial first few days increased pain may be experienced as substance P releases. Caution should be used in sensitive areas of the body and should not be used near eyes or mucous membranes.

Consult a qualified herbalist in treating your pain so that you can be monitored and adjusted as needed. Remember that herbology is just one spoke on the wheel of treatment and should be complimented with diet, exercise, and mind-body medicine as well. Always reveal to your allopathic provider all health-related modalities you engage in, as well as sharing with your herbalist allopathic diagnosises and treatments.

Together allopathic and holistic medicine can optimize your recovery.

Christopher Bashaw, RN is an independent herbalist and healing arts practitioner in the NH Seacoast region and can be contacted at master_tenbu@yahoo.com, http://1karate.webs.com.

Pain itself is can be life-altering. It is not to say that allopathic treatments do notve their place, but many holistic modalities, which include an herbal approach,

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Drug addiction to prescription medications on the rise, with drugs so often prescribed soon into the treatment of pain care, and their dosages increased regularly. Why should this line of pain management come before holistic, natural medicine, which includes nutrition, exercise, herbology, and mind-body medicine?

Or how about epidural steroid injections? These injections have been used in the treatment of pain management for over 50 years. The American Academy of Neurology’s literature notes that the effectiveness of such injections have little to no benefit outside of a 2-6 week window, and that to treat pain for the purposes of improving function, avoiding surgery, or providing long-term pain relief with radiating back pain, it is not recommended (JAMA vol. 297, April 25, 2007). But modern pain management supports and promotes epidural steroid injections consistently, despite little clinical evidence. Whereas Reiki has been shown in limited clinical studies to reduce pain and anxiety, suggesting up to 60% reduction in pain and anxiety for as long as 4 weeks with a single treatment. Tai Chi is recommended by the Arthritis Foundation to not only improve balance and mobility but to decrease pain as well. One must ask why most physicians do not support the use of these holistic modalities first, or at least in conjunction with modern approaches before narcotic and lyrica prescription or epidural steroid injections?

Patients must become knowledgeable of their treatment options and when necessary question and even educate their medical providers.

may be effective for home management or early onset of pain.

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22 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

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wa nder ing s age w i s d om

The Stone Cutter

Aya Itagaki

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by Aaron Hoopes

More Wandering Sage Wisdom is available at: http://wanderingsagewisdom. blogspot.com. Aaron Hoopes teaches an Online Personal Development Course for Spiritual Deepening. He is the author of 5 books including Zen Yoga: A Path to Enlightenment through Breathing, Movement and Meditation. His best-selling Daily Warm-Up DVD is a simple method for integrating breath and movement into daily life. Please feel free to contact Aaron: breathe@artofzenyoga.com. Visit the Zen Yoga Website: www.artofzenyoga.com

Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 23

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ong ago in another time there lived a stone cutter. He spent his days toiling at the base of a towering rock, chipping away at it to produce stone for the masons to build houses. But this stone cutter was not happy; he was dissatisfied with his position in life. He thought he deserved much more. One day as he chiseled at the rock he caught sight of something glittering in the stone. After further chipping away he was amazed to find an oblong white stone embedded in there. He freed the stone and put it in his pocket. Later that day, as he was walking into town he pulled the stone from his pocket and began to study it. Its smooth surface was warm to the touch, and he began gently rubbing it as he walked. Just then, rounding a corner, he came upon a wealthy merchant’s house. Through the open gateway, he saw the merchant entertaining some important visitors. He noticed many fine possessions in the house, and he was envious of the riches the merchant possessed. “How powerful that merchant must be with all his riches!” thought the stonecutter. “I wish I could be the merchant.”

To his great surprise, he suddenly became the merchant. Surrounded by more luxuries and power than he had ever imagined, he bade goodbye to the important visitors and began wandering through his new home touching the artifacts of beauty and wealth. The white stone was still in his pocket and he realized that it must have some magical power. Full of his new station, he decided to continue into town and spend some of his newly acquired wealth. As he was traveling down the road he heard a troop of soldiers beating gongs. Soon a procession of soldiers appeared, escorting a high government official who was riding in a sedan chair carried by attendants who waited upon him solicitously. Everyone, no matter how wealthy, had to bow low before the procession. As he bent his head to the ground the merchant felt a pang of envy.

“How powerful that official is!” he thought, reaching into his pocket for the stone. “I wish that I could be a high official!”

Instantly he became the high official, reclining back in his sedan chair and relishing the power he commanded as he was carried into town. People all around bowed down to him in fear and awe. It was a hot summer day and very soon he began to feel sweaty and uncomfortable in his sedan chair. With a frustrated glance he looked up and saw the sun. It was shining proudly in the sky without any interest in his stature or position. “How powerful the sun is beating down on everything!” he thought rubbing his stone. “I wish that I could be the sun!”

Immediately he became the sun, shining fiercely down on everyone. He still was holding the stone and smiled at its wondrous ability. Reveling in his new power, he began scorching the fields and drying out the plants. The peasants laboring in the heat cursed him, but he just laughed at their troubles. It wasn’t long, however, before a huge black cloud moved between him and the earth. His sunlight no longer shone down upon everything below and he felt powerless. “How powerful that storm cloud is that it can block out the sun!” he thought gripping the white stone. “I wish I could be the cloud!”

No sooner had he thought it than he became the cloud. Still gripping the white stone, he opened up and released his lightning and rain, flooding the fields. The villagers ran for cover, sloshing through the torrential downpour he was creating. But soon he found himself being pushed away by some great force. He was powerless to resist. He realized that a strong wind had come up and was effortlessly moving him.

“How powerful the wind is to blow everything away!” he thought clutching the stone.

“I wish that I could be the wind!”

Immediately he became the wind. Flush with the immense power he started blowing tiles off the roofs of houses, uprooting trees, and causing havoc all around. He blew everywhere, feeling as if he were now the most powerful force. But soon he ran up against something that would not move, no matter how forcefully he blew against it.

It was a huge, towering rock. “How powerful that rock is. It cannot even be moved by the wind!” he thought, concentrating on the white stone. “I wish I could be that rock!”

In an instant he was the towering rock, more powerful than anything else on earth.

The wind blew helplessly against him. Now he was finally the most powerful, immovable thing in existence. But just as he was thinking this he heard a familiar sound. It was the sound of a hammer pounding a chisel into his hard surface. “What could be more powerful than the rock?” he thought. Looking down the length of his towering shape he saw far below the figure of the stone cutter.

Learning to accept who we are right now is a lifelong lesson. Each one of us has a sacred core that is unique in all of existence. It is very easy to get distracted by the yearning for something we don’t have. Very often we live with the thought that things will get better if only we can get through this or achieve that. But when we actually do get to that point something else appears on the horizon for us to look towards.

Acceptance of the self in the present moment can be a big challenge, but it really is the only way to make any progress in discovering our true purpose. Until we are ready to turn our attention inwards we will always be chasing something outside us. You are already perfect as you are right now. This truth resides within you. Take some time to remember who you are and accept yourself. Everything else will unfold as it should.

Until next time… wishing you much peace.

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26

Immunity?

by Ron Damico

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ver the past year I have been hearing, reading or talking about the immune system in one form or another. It’s not surprising with all the attention being placed on the swine flu and the continual hyperattentiveness to germs, diseases and illness overall that immunity has become a growing issue. Throughout history disease and its spread has been a continual concern. As humanity has grown in population and spread across the globe, the fear has become even greater. From the earliest writings, which shared views about illness and disease, how it affected people, and how they related to it, I have noticed a common thread. Illness, in any form, has been viewed as a threat, punishment, an invader, aggressor, and even evil or supernatural force brought down by God or an enemy as punishment for wrong doings.

As humanity evolved and the science of medicine began to take form these views have continued and even deepened. One of the first uses of the word immune or immunity occurred in the 13th-14th centuries. The term immunity was used to express exemption from legal actions, taxation, military service and guilt of wrongdoing. Immunity was not actually used in medicine until the 1800’s.

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If we take this into consideration and look openly at immunity and the immune system it becomes easy to observe that humans believe there is always some form of threat to be alert to, in preparation for, and defensive of. Add to this that we have used a defining/descriptive term to label a supportive, functional, and harmonizing body system as a preparatory defensive system from potential attack, and we are looking at people who are in a constant state of alert. Think there may be a little stress and anxiety present?!

With all the talk about the destructive potential of and the "negative" impact of "bad" stress and stressful situations, it’s no wonder there is so much focus on stress reduction and limiting exposure to stressful situations. It has been shown time and again that stress weakens the immune system. If people take advantage of purposefully reducing stress and utilizing methods of reducing stress will people ever be able to relax and let go enough to live a peaceful life?

Until we allow ourselves to change some perceptions and beliefs about ourselves and the world we live in, NO! If the focus remains on external stresses from current situations or internal emotional stresses from unresolved past experiences and attention is not deepened to focus on shifting perceptions and beliefs about ourselves and life, people will be chasing their "tail" and hiding from ghosts, because the root issue is not being attended to. The issue is not our external environment, it is our internal viewpoint, our perceptions and beliefs, which are continually contributing to the struggle and suffrage.

The immune system has simply been defined as a complex group of organs and cells that defends the body against infection and disease. I realize this is a simplistic expression, but humans have a tendency to enjoy making the simple complex and if I take the time to expand on how it functions through the eyes of how it has been viewed and accepted, it will take more time than I am interested in taking at this point. What I am more interested in focusing on is, that we can open our minds and eyes to connect with another way of relating to and with this beautiful system within the matrix of the body.

I could spend quite a bit of time relaying that people are focused on how it is important to have a strong immune system and body and that it is necessary and beneficial to protect ourselves and our bodies from germs, bacteria, viruses, and other foreign invaders. We must also protect ourselves from the harmful and harsh environment; the harmful rays of the sun; the poisonous and toxic chemicals that are in our air, water and soil are of great concern, even though we are the creators of these situations. It is also beneficial to strengthen your body from bone and muscle loss and deterioration because over time the aging process will take its toll and you will have a poor quality of life if you do not take preventative and protective measures now. There are numerous anti-aging and anti-oxidant products and processes, which will help you fight off free-radical damage. I’m trusting you are getting the point and the idea of what is contributing to our struggle. All that was just stated is generated from our beliefs and perceptions about ourselves, life and the world we live in. The question I would like to have people answer is “Are we willing to change how we live and view ourselves, the world and the process we call life”? If the answer to the question is no, then it is no longer necessary to continue reading, but if the answer to the question is yes then we have some place to play and possibilities to explore.

As stated above, people have a tendency to look at the world as an unfriendly and unsafe place to be. There are moments of appreciation, gratitude and joy for 26 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

‘beautiful’ days and places and wonderful events, but even this has conditioning and conditional expectations as motivation. If an event or situation does not fit within a specific framework or previously developed idea of what is good and acceptable, then at some level it is rejected. When a person is in a state of rejection there is tension, and a state of closing is created. If we continue to grow or re-enforce this posturing we begin to create a life which gradually closes in around us. As this continues the view of life increasingly becomes defensive and frightening.

We are not designed to be consciously nor perceptually closed. There are open and closed biological and physiological systems which are necessary to create and maintain a physical body of this nature, but our love, gratitude, compassion, consciousness and awareness of All That Is at no level was ever nor is ever meant to be anything other than open and fluid. This is not to say that there is not a natural ebb and flow to this Source Love, but there is never a moment in which we are meant to be closed, guarded, protected, preserved, conserved or withheld in any moment for any reason from this Source. That which Source has gifted each of us is not meant to be conditional. Yet society, over time, for numerous "justifiable" reasons, has let us know we need to be cautious. If we are not cautious we could be damaged and ‘loose‘ something, even our lives. What if we turned our focus to living and growing this wonderful blessing we have been gifted and begin to build our lives on the foundation that Source has gifted us and can never be taken away?

What if that foundation is the Truth? —That we are the Divine Spark, which can never be extinguished. What if we began to experience Divine Truth within this plane of existence? What if we began to feel ourselves, as we truly are, LOVE? What if we chose to live our lives as an unrestricted expression and sharing of the LOVE that we are? What if, what if, what if...?

Continued on Page 41

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On October 24th, 2009 We experienced an International Day of Climate Action.

We would like to share with you some of the pictures from:

www.350.org

China

Mumbai, India

Philipp

ines

Afghanistan

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15,000 March In Ethiopia

Kazakhstan

Times Square

USA

Table Mountain, Africa

Giza, Egypt

Sydney

London

Nepal

Copenhagen

Israel,

Palestine,

Jordan Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 27

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welcom e ho m e

ask asrianna Questions and Answers on Relationships, Spirituality and Conscious Living

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Dear Asrianna, The last time I sat and talked to my friend about my troubles she said it all stems from losing a part of my soul. She underwent a soul retrieval and told me how much it helped her.

While it sounds a bit far-fetched to me, it’s true that I’ve been in one bad relationship after another.

Should I have a soul retrieval? I’m not sure what it is but I’m tired of dealing with the garbage of my life and if this can take it all away, great.

Signed, Wants My Soul Back Dear Asrianna, I had a soul retrieval last year. Initially I felt a little better but I don’t think it worked at all. I’m feeling worse and my life, if possible, is even more out of control. Could it be that the person who did it for me didn’t do it right?

Signed, Retrieved and Unhappy Dear Soul and Retrieval, Inherent in most individuals’ belief systems is the viewpoint that we arrive in the world as an intact personality. The soul is that immutable and unique part of us that transcends the physical body, or at the least is with us from the moment of birth to the last breath we take. Much like a clean blackboard, we start from a particular personality unwritten upon, and then life makes its mark and we become who we are, a single narrative if you will.

Yet in most indigenous cultures there’s the belief in a multifaceted soul: one that contains every moment in our life, every aspect of who we are, our myriad skills, abilities, gifts and talents, our every experience, and every emotion and thought we’ve ever had. In some cultures there is also the acceptance of multiple lifetimes, each with its own complex history and results.

We are not necessarily a straight line of being with a single thread that is being acted upon. Instead, perhaps our soul can be imperfectly imagined as a strand of pearls. Each pearl is a facet of our soul, each comprising the necklace, yet every beautifully unique pearl is intact in and of itself. One pearl breaks away and the strand, however lovely, is no longer what it was originally.

With soul loss, a part of the individual breaks away from the whole, leaving the remaining soul fragmented, incomplete as if an entire puzzle was assembled but a piece—or pieces—are missing. The puzzle itself can be discerned for the visual picture it is, but the integral parts are not all there, not entirely present, and there’s always the sense of incompleteness. We want to see its entirety and feel dissatisfied with what is left.

Why does this happen? The reasons are as varied, and as complex, as the countless thoughts, experiences and emotions each person contains. The common theme, however, is that soul loss occurs during a traumatic event, a time so untenable and painful that the psyche of the person cannot endure it and, so, part of it splits off from the person.

As often happens, what indigenous cultures have known and named for generations, is eventually accepted and described in current psychological therapies. In psychology, the term "dissociation" is described as a protective mechanism whereby part of the consciousness of an individual splits off from the psyche, taking with it anxiety, painful thoughts and the emotions associated with that trauma.

28 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

Although it’s a sadly tragic example, consider a physically abused child. This five-year-old girl didn’t ask for abuse, didn’t call it to her in any way, and yet a trusted adult betrayed her trust and in doing so caused such a horrific experience that the girl simply cannot continue to be emotionally present. She leaves the moments of abuse, separating from her experience, psychologically and emotionally in a way she can’t do physically.

With the idea of soul loss—and continuing with our example—when that five-year-old self leaves, she takes with her all the energy associated with a beautiful, precious little five-year-old girl. The traits we consider child-like may be hard for the now thirty-five-year-old woman to recapture. Perhaps she has difficulty playing, she might feel a lack of curiosity and adventure. Trust is damaged and her ability to connect in an innocent, heart-felt way seems difficult if not impossible. She might continue the theme of abuse by choosing dis-empowering relationships that mirror aspects of the original trauma.

When these individuals describe such soul losses they often use words such as feeling numb, being separate from their emotions, as though they’re an outsider watching their lives unfold, powerless to change or enjoy the moments. It can be described as living life inside an emotional bubble, or as one person described it, “It’s like I have a wound I can’t feel. I’m anesthetized from the pain but I also can’t feel pleasure.”

Because only a fragment of the soul is lost, the individual may be able to cope quite well in life, successful in ways large and small. Depending upon the awareness of the person, they might feel quite rightly that they’re happy and well-adjusted, yet for many there’s a void that no amount of effort seems to fill.

Soul retrieval is the act of bringing the soul fragment home where it can be reintegrated into the whole, allowing the person a full range of emotions. This doesn’t mean, of course, that in the span of a ceremony all sadness or unhappiness will disappear. Challenges will still occur, people will still disappoint, joys will unfold, successes will be achieved: life happens as it does with everyone. But the individual with an intact soul has within him or her all the tools necessary to grow and learn, to experience life fully in every way. In other words, to bring calm, joy, and all the possibilities in life to fruition in their own.

The details and mechanics of soul retrievals vary and even the term "soul retrieval" is a phrase unused by traditional indigenous peoples, but some Shamanic processes are fairly universal. The healer, usually considered a medicine man or woman, enters an altered state of consciousness and travels to a realm where the soul fragment has retreated. Once there, the Shaman convinces the soul fragment to return to the individual, bringing with him or her all the full range of emotions and wisdom, the abilities, gifts, talents and skills inherent within that fragment.

For all the truly wonderful reasons why someone might consider soul retrieval, it isn’t a cure-all and should not be undertaken lightly or with the mistaken belief that merely bringing back a fragment (or fragments as there may be more than one part that has split off) will bring happiness to an individual. It is part of the process of healing and as with any journey toward a desired destination, there are steps that need to be taken and considered. This doesn’t mean the adventure isn’t one of

joy, merely that preparation and a full awareness of the path ahead are important in reaching the goal.

Remember, the soul fragmented for a reason. The original trauma was clearly so painful that through the process of leaving, the fragment partially escaped the full spectrum of emotions present during the experience. This separation meant that processing and healing from the wound either didn’t occur, or only happened in a limited way.

Let’s go back to the example of the five-year-old girl. Because she left her physical body, and due to the trauma inherent in such a horrific experience, healing from the abuse can be hampered by her soul’s inability to access all the elements of the experience. Examining the event, however painful, is a necessary aspect of healing. It’s an unavoidable part of moving through the trauma toward understanding, toward integrating and then transcending the painful experience—ultimately toward a life of wisdom and joy.

Bringing back that soul fragment—that five-year-old self—means that the woman she is at thirty-five will now needs to go through the delayed process of healing.

Furthermore, it might be difficult if not impossible to convince the soul fragment to return if the remaining soul of the woman isn’t viewed as existing in a safe place.

If she’s in an emotionally painful relationship as an adult, that child-self may not feel she’ll be protected and will either refuse to return or will simply leave once more.

After a retrieval, an individual might feel sadness or grief. They might experience recall of the trauma and all the attendant emotions and, to some degree, they may go through the process that was once avoided. With this in mind, it’s important for the individual considering soul retrieval to put in place positive foundations. What elements are present that are supportive, therapies such as mental health counseling as well as other healing modalities? If this isn’t part of the individual’s life, it’s possible to feel retraumatized.

There are often other energetic methods that need to be done before a retrieval is undertaken, such as extractions, spirit releasements, and/or energy decording.

These options all work to prepare the individual for the return of soul fragments, creating a safe and loving home to return to. In short, a soul retrieval is a powerful, profound method of healing. If after considering the steps ahead you decide to embark on this journey, may you be blessed along the way and may your destination be rich in understanding and joy.

Signed, Asrianna Asrianna Dameron is a Psychic, a Spiritual Medium, a Certified Hypnotherapist, and a Certified Past Life Regressionist in private practice. She offers individual and group sessions as well as seminars and speaking engagements on the topics of Psychic Development, Mediumship, Hypnosis and Shamanic healing. Asrianna can be reached at asrianna@shamansheart.com, by visiting her websites at www.shamansheart.com or www.nhshamanandpsychicmedium.com, or by calling 603-892-1268.

To have your questions answered, please email your letters or comments to Asrianna at Asrianna@shamansheart.com

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The Gift of Mental Illness

by Kimble Greene, Ph.D.

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s my heart constricted and my stomach knotted, my eyes were drawn to the young man standing before me. On this spring day in the mid 90’s, my weekly psychotherapy session with him was proving to be as fascinating, challenging, and heart-wrenching as most of the others. He vacillated from fighting the demons within to coping with his fear of being seen, being unremittingly vulnerable and, very simply, being.

Here it comes, the litany of curse words and accusations of betrayal… ”fuck you, bitch,” “I hate you,” “I wish I could kill you”… usually followed by screeching, growling and fists pounding the floor and walls. Then, without skipping a beat, he curls up into a ball on the floor… wincing, crying that the “light” inside him is trying to keep the “monster” at bay. “Please help me, Miss Kimble!,” he begs, holding his outstretched arm toward me, his hand reaching out to grasp mine, indicating the need for the strength he derives from safe human touch. “I’m afraid of the darkness,” “It’s bigger than I am,” “I can’t fight it,” “It’s taking over,” “Help me kill it, Miss Kimble!”... typical weekly outcries and desperate behavior from him.

What most professionals and practitioners do not realize is that his mechanisms for survival, including the aggression and bizarre personality shifts, had saved him from complete emotional, cognitive and spiritual annihilation. Unfortunately, these same genius defense mechanisms and survival tools were now his undoing, subjecting him to a mental and medical health culture that thrives on labeling, hiding, and shunning those whose extraordinary ability to survive devastating trauma is viewed as “dys” functional.

He is actually a typically adaptive, intelligent, loving boy born into a world, a culture, a family that repeatedly let him down – a system whose efforts to “treat” constitute spiritual repression, shame, fear and nonacceptance in disguise.

As a student of traditional clinical psychology from my early twenties on, I, too was trained and educated to understand mental “illness” as: a breakdown in our brains; as a problem or dis-order; as an internal system which is failing; as a cognitive activity which is undesirable; as a state of mind or being which is worthy of shunning, inhumane treatment, seclusion and denial of human acceptance and validation. Indeed, it took me years of my own self process and healing coupled with an advanced education in transpersonal psychology, the study of the human spirit and other nonphysical aspects of existence, to understand that the misguided and harmful notion that mental “illness” is a severe “dys” function rather than the wonderfully functional coping tool and genius survival mechanism it truly is. What I have come to understand, and believe, is that the human mind, and ultimately the human being, does not create mechanisms or engage in processes which are inherently “harmful” or unnecessary – alternatively, the focus of all human mechanisms is survival! We employ tools such as depression, schizophrenia, etc., in order to survive a particular, circumstance.

What I witnessed in this young man, which I did not fully understand at the time, was that he was experiencing a classic crisis of spirit, evidenced in the battle between his spiritual being, which he described in the introductory paragraph as the “light” inside of him, and his tormented ego (or sense of being self ) which was desperately seeking to maintain cognitive and emotional survival, described earlier as the “monster or darkness” inside him. The coping tools his consciousness utilized during the time of his trauma and abuse, such as schizophrenia and psychosis, were perfectly suited for that situation in maintaining his cognitive and emotional survival – genius, in fact. Unfortunately, and as a matter of course, they became unnecessary when he was removed from his abusive environment and placed in a safe and loving home. In a holistically (spiritual, emotional, cognitive

Interestingly, it is our amazing and “gifted” ability to utilize coping mechanisms such as depression, schizophrenia, multiple personalities, psychosis, and other mental “illnesses” that enable us to survive the often devastating effects of loss, trauma and abuse. Our brains are hard-wired to assist us in our physical, emotional, and cognitive survival under all circumstances – what a tremendous ability and gift! It is unfortunate that our medical and mental health systems and services do not honor these coping and survival tools as the natural gifts they are and instead treat any such “mental” states as illness, disorder, dysfunction and other equally unacceptable and undesirable states of being.

If we are truly seeking to support the healing and wellness of our human/ spiritual selves, it is imperative we begin to view and honor what have been previously categorized as mental “illnesses” as states of human and spiritual wellbeing and tools of mental and emotional reordering, protection, support and health seeking—traits which are as essential to our evolution, survival and well-being as those traits deemed acceptable and desirable such as euphoria, creativity, drive, determination, joy and others. In accepting all of our human traits, abilities and characteristics as necessary and timely, we also honor and nurture an equally significant aspect of our being, our Spirit.

If the educational, mental and medical systems had viewed and treated his socalled “disorders” as magnificent tools of reordering, healing and survival, perhaps he would have been able to move beyond his seemingly permanent state of terror and torment and his resulting socially intolerable and unsafe behavior. Maybe, if he and others like him were validated and honored for their effective utilization of so-called mental “dis-ease” they would be able to embrace, honor, process and move through such periods of difficulty successfully and with grace, resulting in the reestablishment and re-ordering of health and well-being.

So, ponder these words, his story, and this new perspective of viewing mental “illness” as mental “wellness” and embrace and honor yourself as well as others as we experience the often complicated, challenging and blissful journey of human spiritual beingness.

Kimble Greene, Ph.D. is a spiritual intuitive and transpersonal psychology and energy healing practitioner who has been serving individuals, groups, organizations and communities for over 25 years. Dr. Kimble resides in Connecticut; founded, owns and operates; The Sanctuary Center For Healing, a healing, counseling and spiritual center; and Solace Consulting, LLC, a personal, professional and organizational development firm – both are located in Hebron, CT. You can contact Dr. Kimble at; drkimble@thesanctuaryforhealing,.com, 860.316.7530 or www.thesanctuaryforhealing.com.

Life is not what it's supposed to be.

It is what it is.

The way you cope with it is what makes the difference. ...Virginia Satir

Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 29

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Unfortunately, this young man epitomizes national mental and medical health systemic failure, spiritual repression, and the unchecked re-victimization of our special needs children, and indeed all those identified as mentally “ill,” through labeling, over-diagnosis, and most tragically, a devastating lack of understanding about the genius and necessity that is mental “illness.” He had been diagnosed, and re-diagnosed, with everything from Autism to ADHD to PTSD to Schizophrenia and more. He was medicated, and re-medicated, with a pharmaceutical cornucopia of powerful drugs ranging from sedatives to anti-depressants to anti-psychotics.

Nothing worked. His behavior was, and continued to be, bizarre, unsafe, aggressive, and overtly sexual. His history of severe sexual, physical, and emotional trauma, neglect, and abuse – in addition to being forced to witness the same against his little sister – had taken its toll.

and physical) environment, he would have been appropriately validated and supported in his previous choices while being guided in moving forward in making new choices with regards, his overall functioning and well-being. However, due to the excessive negative focus, labeling, nonacceptance and identification of these coping tools (which he experienced as a rejection of his Self ) as errant, undesirable and subject to annihilation and elimination rather than aspects to be honored and healed, he remained stuck in a virtual loop of selfdoubt, recrimination, shame, guilt, confusion and fear.

30

f e ng sh ui & ge o p a t h o l og y

Body Dowsing

by Werner Brandmaier

D

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owsing is an old tradition and best known as a method to locate underground water veins for wells. We use dowsing in our Feng Shui practice to detect energetic structures carrying geopathic stress (areas which increase decay and often can be found in close correlation with long-term illness).

Dowsing can not only be used for those earth patterns but also for tapping into our intuitive capabilities. The right part of our brain, representing the intuitive aspect, works as a parallel processor and is incredibly fast. The left brain, the rational mind, acts more as a serial processor, dealing with one issue at a time, slowing down the overall performance of our “bio-computer” dramatically.

If we watch ourselves carefully when we make important decisions we often sense a gut feeling we have at the very beginning. Looking back later we recognize that we should have followed this intuition in the first place instead of listening to the arguments our rational mind chattered through our head. To simply follow our intuition would often serve us best. Dowsing allows us to tap into that subconscious aspect, and with that connects us to the innate knowledge and wisdom.

Dowsing in most cases is practised by using different tools. Water dowsers originally used tree branches shaped like a Y (Y-rods), but also L-rods (wires bent into an L-shape), or pendulums. Over the last few decades additional versions such as tensors (bobbers) came into fashion. Tensors (“bobbers”) have a handle with a steel wire coming out about a foot with a ring or a ball on the end. Personally, I like the tensors best, because they are reliable, fast and reveal detailed information quickly. However, all the tools work equally well, as they don’t really do anything by themselves, but serve more like a pointer to amplify the dowser’s own sensitivity. It works by translating a micro-muscle response in the hand into an amplified swing of the instrument.

If we therefore consider dowsing as a method to help us decide what’s best for us, for our body, sometimes even for our wallet (by not buying stuff we don’t really need), then we should probably bring a dowsing instrument along with us all day; to the grocery store to see which foods are healthier for us; to choose which brand of vitamin C is most beneficial for us, even to a bookstore to find out if a book is worth buying.

(Believe me, I have tried this so many times: testing a book without even opening the cover, then just buying it due to a fancy title, although my dowsing had indicated that I shouldn’t waste my money. It turned out, and not just once, that I never opened the book later at home, either.)

At this point I’d also like to mention Applied Kinesiology as another method to determine the body’s true response. When Dr. George Goodheart wrote his book Your Body Doesn’t Lie he introduced a method to access the same inner wisdom that has all the answers. Standard Kinesiology, however, requires a second person for the testing procedure, although there are some ways to test yourself.

Let’s get practical now: The only problem that holds us back from using dowsing in everyday situations is that it looks weird when we pull out our dowsing instruments and they start moving about seemingly on their own. Most people wouldn’t be comfortable walking through a store with their pendulum or tensor, bobbing along with them. We also could ask a friend to join us and ask them to test us with Applied Kinesiology by testing the strength of our arm with each individual item, but again that looks pretty dramatic.

Wouldn’t it be so much easier if we could apply that method in a much more discreet way?

Here is the solution: Body Dowsing. Body dowsing uses the response of our body in a simple and quick way to tell us if our body is attracted to or repelled by something.

And remember: The body does not lie.

I like to teach this exercise in my classes. It just takes a few minutes. Children are naturals and pick it up very easily. Women are often a bit more sensitive than men, but everybody can do it. I recommend practicing for a while before you start asking general questions. The range of applications is wide: e.g. “Would buying that CD help my inner development?” Or at least: “Would I truly enjoy listening to it?”.

Notice: The more precise the question, the clearer the answer! Instead of asking: “Should I get this CD?” it is better to ask: “Would getting this be beneficial for me in any way at this time?”

Here is how it works: • Stand straight and relaxed and try to feel your body’s subtle movements. (Keep in mind that we are standing upright, we are unconsciously balancing ourselves all the time.)

• Now ask a question where the body would show a clear “Yes” response, e.g. “Show me a Yes” or “Is my name ...(your name)?” If this is a true statement the body will start to move.

• Usually a “yes” or “confirmation” lets the upper body slightly fall forward (towards an object, if you’re testing something specific), a “no” would make you fall backward, away from it.

Now practice and establish some confidence.

Of course, it is much easier to find results for other people or for situations where you are not personally involved. Dowsing for yourself to answer bigger questions can be tricky. If there is any emotional entanglement and bias for a possible outcome, e.g. when asking “Should I date this person?” (-right, you thought of that question already, didn’t you?) you can call a friend or third person, ideally someone who is neutral. Don’t tell him/her your question.

Just ask them to test for some answers while you go through the different questions in your mind, one at a time.

Here are some additional thoughts: Most people’s bodies responds in the way described. Sometimes other results might occur: One might fall backward for a “yes” and forward for a “no.” We call this “switched.” Switching can occur when the body is overloaded and extremely stressed or exhausted. Massaging your Kidney-27 points below both your collar bones can reverse that, best combined with slight tapping on head and heart as taught in Bodytalk.

After some practice I want you to do all your holiday shopping this year by applying Body Dowsing. You will save money and get really nice stuff. If you try to find meaningful presents, ask your body, “Would this crystal benefit Aunt Vicky,” or “Would this book be beneficial for my friend Jane?” Choose from the several ideas you have for them by asking your body.

When people stop at our booth at expos I tell them to test our own Feng Shui products themselves to see if they would work well for them. This way I leave the decision to the customer. Good products sell themselves anyway.

We wish you happy holidays and very much look forward to connecting with you again next year.

Werner Brandmaier Dipl.Ing., a medical engineer and a citizen of Austria, studied with prominent international Feng Shui masters and trained in Germany to practice dowsing and geopathology. Werner offers consultations for homes and businesses and teaches workshops and seminars. He is a member of the International Feng Shui Guild and the American Society of Dowsers.

You may contact Werner at (207) 772-7888 or office@InstituteOfFengShui.com.

“Quantum physics has found that there is no empty space in the human cell, but it is a teeming, electric-magnetic field of possibility and potential” ...Dr. Deepak Chopra

30 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

31

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

The Reality and Not The Illusion of Having a Guru, Part 2

by James Bean Learn New Things – Ascend and Discover A New World!

book discussion group, class, teleseminar, friends meditating together, or meeting together, including over the phone, or via the web. These all, to varying degrees may or could contain elements of Satsang in some cases.

There are unexplored “rooms” within the “interior castle” of the human body, the true temple of the Spirit. What ultimately is to be uncovered along this mysticjourney of inner soul travel exploration is our true identity, which has been given various names: the true Self, higher Self, New Nature, New Adam, “Christ in you – your hope of glory”, Atman, Supreme Soul, drop from the Divine Ocean, the Pearl, Spark of the Light, Nuri Sarup (Light-Body or Radiant Form), spirit entity, or Surat (the attention-faculty of the soul). Eventually the observer will observe its own Self.

It occurs to me that the definition of “soul” for most is really atman or Spirit combined with the astral and mental subtle bodies or coverings. Those are generally lumped together and called “the soul.” That’s understandable, of course, as it represents “us” as separate individual or individualized “drops” of the Divine Ocean.

Eventually the observer will observe its own self.

Swami Bhagirath Baba, a Master from Bihar, India, said recently: “Moving down from the middle of the two eyes is going towards ignorance, and moving up from the middle of two eyes is going towards Knowledge.” “The beginning of the Turiyaa state has been said to be the Aajnaa-chakra [Third Eye Center] (the Guru instructs about the Point in between the two eyes where the vision of both unites), and the destination of this is in Kaivalya—the State of Oneness—Pure Consciousness.”

Swami Bhagirath Baba describes as ignorance or spiritual poverty a situation of only being aware of the world below the Third Eye Center, the material world of the fives senses, but cut off from awareness of the reality that exists above and beyond the Third Eye Center. For Bhagirath Baba and other mystics, above the Third Eye is a kind of tunnel that ultimately quite literally leads to God. Those who have had NDE’s or Near Death Experiences have described this same tunnel. The observer passes through certain visions, sights and sounds, stars, moons, and suns, inner regions or heavens, then bright Light, from Light to Sound, and from Sound to Soundlessness and Formlessness. I even know of several helpful “charts of the heavens,” illustrating the various levels, or regions of Inner Space, this Kingdom of the Heavens that are within. Email me and I will gladly send some Shabd Yoga as well as Gnostic charts to you!

Three Ways We Can Honor the Soul Kabir once said, “There is no other God like compassion on living beings and worship of the Supreme Self.” (The Bijak of Guru Kabir, published by Shri Kabir Ashram, Jamnagar, India) There are three major ways (no doubt many more) we can honor the soul, the divine within ourselves and others.

1) A Sociable God: Where Two or Three Gather in My Name, I Am in Their Midst The first way we can honor or acknowledge the soul is through spiritual community, by connecting with other souls. The Eastern term for this is “Satsangha” or “Satsang” (Associating with the Eternal Truth or God), referring to people getting together to meditate as a group, discuss spiritual principals of truth, sing hymns (bhajans, kirtans), and focus on the Wisdom of one’s spiritual teacher, path, mystic order, or tradition. It’s also easy to recognize parallels to this in various expressions, East and West: synagogue, church, mass, message board, chat room,

2) The Supreme Soul Assuming Control

The second way we can honor souls is by adhering to ahsimsa values. Ahimsa is an Eastern term for the Golden Rule meaning, cultivating non-violence in one’s thoughts, words, and deeds, to, more and more with each passing day, become truly peaceful in all aspects of life.

This means being inspired, not by vague platitudes about inner and outer peace, but by specific ethical principals to be guided by in every aspect of life and living. As of late, rich sources of inspiration for me have been the Bijak of Guru Kabir, the Saakhi Granth of Guru Kabir, and countless Jainist Sutras. The religion from India founded by Lord Mahavira known as Jainism has a vast amount of wisdom to offer about ahimsa ethics, the values of the Supreme Soul.

3) Become Your Real Self In Meditation The third way we can directly honor the soul is by being the soul in meditation. When we first start practicing meditation, we may believe that we have a soul. If our meditation becomes deep and successful, however, over time we will realize that we are soul. It is the soul that is inhabiting this body and mind. We don’t merely have a soul hidden away someplace – We Are That.

Not All Saints Are Dead When it comes to spirituality, there are two basic approaches that most have.

The most common one is finding a book on spirituality. Many begin the learning process this way. Of course, rather than the pursuit of knowledge leading to mystical experience, it could be the other way around for some. One may begin the spiritual search as a result of something acting as a catalyst. People may begin seeking answers as a result of having an experience that opens them up to new possibilities.

In any case, most with a spiritual curiosity may get ideas from certain books, perhaps a book from a popular author. This could be described as an eclectic do-it-yourself spirituality. One is not necessarily tethered to any specific spiritual path, tradition or direction, just some of “this” and some of “that.” Most of us begin this way. There is, however, another approach. Some go from being an eclectic spiritual seeker perpetually in seek-mode to someone who has “found” a certain path or contemporary spiritual movement they resonate with, that feeds their soul like none other thus far in their experience. One may join a living school of spirituality, a mystic order or lineage. Perhaps this lineage or path has been in existence for many centuries. One may find that the wisdom of mystical paths such as Kabbalah, Sufism or Sant Mat is not solely based on ancient scriptures, scrolls, or holy parchments from the past, with a focus of looking back to an earlier time of prophets and saints, like we usually find

Continued on Page 45 Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 31

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There are Realities that we do not see, many things we do not hear, and a vast treasure-trove of wisdom we are not paying attention to. The outer world via the five senses comes pouring in – we are outwardly gazing all the time and dominated by impressions of mind and matter. We have accepted our own reflections (bodies) as the only reality. Thus the need for meditation, and not just any form of meditation, but an initiation into the Mysteries of the Kingdom of Inner Space, so that we may see and hear spiritually, know and explore those realms we inhabit: the astral plane, the causal and mental regions, and ultimately beyond mind and matter, to the purely spiritual region, until there is Oneness. Kirpal Singh’s axiom is: “God plus mind [manas] is man, and man minus mind [manas] is God.”

As we develop our meditation practice and ethical foundation, one of the fruits of this is the bhakta principal of seeing God in everyone. Eastern cultures are quite advanced in this area. I really like the salutation used by an Eastern religion known as the Kabir Panth, the Path of Guru Kabir: “Bandagi Saheb!” Bandagi is from the Sanskrit ‘vandana’ – a salutation, and saheb is a word for master. Bandagi saheb thus means: “I offer salutation or greeting to the master dwelling in you.” Bandagi Saheb also reminds me of the greeting “Namaste,’” which means: “The God in me bows to the God in you.” Also, in the Radhasoami tradition of India, satsangis greet each other with “Radhaswami,” meaning, Lord of the Soul.

The principals of this art of seeing God in others is quite eloquently articulated in a holy book of the East known as, The Narada Bhakti Sutras, which I highly recommend.

One can find translations of it online, as well as can order it via any good bookstore or library.

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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 ve livin g

counseling & the rapy- cont.

Maine

Patricia A. Burke, MSW, LCSW

Holistic Psychotherapy & Spiritual Development Work

Greensward Hamlet

Greensward Hamlet

Alternative Living .................................................. page 32 Counseling & Therapy ................................... pages 32-33 Creative Healing Arts ........................................... page 33 Evolutionary Consciousness................................. page 33 Health Publications .............................................. page 34 Holistic Healing Centers ...................................... page 34 Hypnotherapy ...................................................... page 34 Integrative Healing ........................................ pages 35-36 Life Mastery ......................................................... page 36 Meditation ............................................................ page 37 Psychic & Spiritual Mediumship .......................... page 37 Reflexology & Healing Massage .......................... page 37 Retreats ......................................................... pages 37-38 Sacred Space .......................................................page 38 Salons & Spas ..................................................... page 38 Schools & Trainings ...................................... pages 38-39 Shamanic Healing ......................................... pages 39-40 Writing Services..................................................... page 40 Yoga, Tai Chi, Aikido ............................................. page 40

"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

A Co-housing Community In Buxton, Maine

Drawing on the Strength of Community To Live Sustainably. Maine’s first Green,

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fossil free, co - housing 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. Ready to begin construction in 2009. Visit www.greenswardhamlet.com or www.cohousing.org. Or contact: Françoise Paradis, Ed.D. PO Box 1325, Saco, Me 04072 (207) 227-3678.

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 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.

co u n s e l i ng & t h e rapy

Live From Your Center

Maine I am a clinical counselor and practitioner of Somatic Experiencing© with a private psychotherapy practice in Portland, Maine.

My work integrates traditional talk therapy, somatic therapy and mindfulness in work with individual clients. The emphasis is on helping people learn to access the innate healing ability of the human body.

The end goal is to heal trauma, stress, compulsions Douglas Smith and other challenges in order to enjoy an open, embodied flow of experience. I also teach workshops in somatics and sensory awareness for clinicians and others interested in mind-body integration. Most insurance accepted. For an appointment or more information please call, email or visit me on the web at www.mindmeetsbody.com. Douglas Smith, LCPC, SEP. 205 Ocean Avenue, Portland, ME 04103, (207) 773-7993 x19. smith@mindmeetsbody.com

Mark Nakell, LCPC 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.

Joy

Happiness Love Abundance Our Wishes To You For A Blessed Holiday Season.

e c a e P

32 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

33 cou ns e l i ng & t h e r apy- co n t .

Judith C. Mignogna MSW, LCSW I enjoy helping individuals, couples, and families bring a renewed sense of peace and hope into their lives. Understanding differences in communication

styles and learning new problem-solving skills can be key to unraveling many family system difficulties.

I am also committed to working with breast cancer survivors, adults with ADHD, individuals with PTSD and those who feel unaccepted for "who they are." When clients accept and love themselves for their uniqueness, they become empowered to access new possibilities. I use a "strengths-based," "staying in the moment" approach to assist others on their journey to self-discovery. When validated and encouraged, my clients begin to master their own "destiny" while eradicating self-defeating obstacles and fears. They come to understand themselves in a gratifying, non-judgmental way. To learn more about me, please visit at www.truenorthhealthcenter.org/judith_mignogna.asp or call (207) 781-4488.

creative healing arts-cont.

Vermont

Zen Yoga is a journey of spiritual deepening that begins with the breath. Zen Yoga begins

with deep breathing to gather energy and then introduces soft, flowing movement and stretches to facilitate the smooth flow of that energy throughout the body. Based on the fundamental principles of yoga, tai chi and qigong, Zen Yoga is like nothing you have tried before. Prepare to feel wonderful! Our instructors create programs specifically designed to meet the needs of your group. We are available to teach workshops and stress relief programs throughout New England. We hold special retreats in the mountains of Vermont in September. Our Online Correspondence Course is a 12-week email program that provides tools to assist you on your journey of self-discovery. For more information: Phone: (860) 805-6551, Email: breathe@artofzenyoga.com, Website: www.artofzenyoga.com.

creative healing arts Maine Surry Music Therapy Center: Alan Wittenberg M.A., CMT

evolutionary consciousness

Main e

Certified Music Therapist, (AMTA) American Music Therapy Association

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.

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.

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,

Live In

Shamanic Practitioner with over thirty years experience. The Thirteenth Moon Center, "ART from the heART," (207) 589-3063. moonarts@gmail.com.

Di re cto ry of R es our ce 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

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 email: info@innertapestry.org

Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 33

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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

34 health publications

holistic healing centers-cont.

M a i ne The Maine Directory of Complementary & Alternative Health Practitioners

By LeCain Smith, Windrose Productions Good health is something that we often don’t appreciate until something goes wrong. But wellness

can be achieved through non-invasive bodywork that recognizes the body’s innate intelligence and brings it to bear on the root cause of dysfunctions, strengthening the recipient’s ability to prevent a problem from occurring or progressing into disease, as well as restoring the body, mind, emotions and spirit to healthy functioning. To make it easier for people to access these methods of complementary holistic health care, Smith has compiled a directory of 421 practitioners working in 192 different therapeutic bodywork modalities (from Acupressure to Zero Balancing) in 131 towns in Maine. Descriptions of each modality are provided, along with information on energy medicine, other types of therapies available, massage and bodywork schools, and related associations or organizations. Windrose Productions hopes that this book will become an ongoing resource for Maine people by periodically updating and expanding it with new editions. For information, to be listed as a practitioner in future editions or to order: (207) 326-4279 or www.WindroseAway.com. Also available at bookstores around the state.

holistic healing centers Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

M a i ne

Education and awakening for the curious, the aware and those who feel or hear a calling from within for change, growth and enlightenment of the physical, mental and spiritual vessels.

Curious about words like crystallinity, consciousness, light body, or fascia?

Come to Center to enrich your life and its purpose in a safe, nurturing, home-like atmosphere. Offering individual expression through various movement modalities and enhancing holistic therapies. Yamuna Body Rolling (www.yamunabodyrolling.com) , Yoga, Dance, Astrology classes, Crystal Consults/Therapies, Young Living Oils classes and treatments, Holistic Skincare and Body Therapies and a gallery of goods that support local and eclectic artists and writers. Singles, families, the youth and the wise... we welcome groups of any size. Be well. Visit us @ www.centerstudioandspa.com or call (207) 865-0086 for more info. Located in Freeport, off of exit 22.

Meadow Wind Center for Holistic Arts is a beautiful place for people to gather, to learn, to teach and to be a part of a community interested in conscious living. We offer the individual services of a holistic

center through our community of practitioners, as well as a wide spectrum of wonderful workshops and classes. The practitioners at Meadow Wind offer services from massage, polarity, spiritual healing and life coaching to art, yoga, hair, skin & beauty. To contact any of our practitioners call Meadow Wind or go to www.meadowwind.org for a list of practitioners and their personal contact information. We have a beautiful workshop/class space available to teachers who want to share what they have with others. To explore teaching at Meadow Wind contact Andrea Ferrante at (207) 878-3899. Our workshops and classes are also listed on our website, www.meadowwind.org. We are conveniently located at 100 Gray Rd., Falmouth, ME.

34 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

Gardens of Atlantis Healing Arts Center Gardens of Atlantis has been Embraced by the community the last four years. I have met many

wonderful people and been supported by neighbors who've become my family.

I strive to offer gifts of higher self-learning, exploration in personal growth and natural healing to my community. I am in turn gifted with love and support. It's a win-win! Debbie Mercier of Greenwood Herbals, Hypnotist and Soul Coach Carol Cliche, IET instructor Bobbi Arnold, Energy Worker Georgi Nelson, Meditation and EFT Coach Jackie Belanger, Psychic Channel Tracy are also embraced by the Center and the people who come here. We will expand our embrace this coming year and we hope it will encompass you!

Season's Blessings! (207) 929-5088, www.gardensofatlantis.org.

hypnotherapy

Main e 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.

ELISSAGARDE-JOIA

Harness the power of the mind-body connection.

As a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, I have

the tools and skills you need. Hypnotherapy eliminates fear and stress and creates a blueprint for health and healing that your mind can read and follow. Medical experts acknowledge that Hypnotherapy complements all medical procedures, maximizing their effectiveness and minimizing negative side effects. Pre/post surgical patients experience reduced anxiety, blood loss, and anesthesia need, and rapid healing.

Hypnotherapy is extremely effective in treating many physical challenges such as chronic pain and disorders of the stomach and digestive system.

Hypnosis for Childbirth removes the fear and pain of childbirth. Hypnotherapy played a major role in my own successful battle with breast cancer. After 16 years of private practice in New York, I am now privileged to serve my neighbors here in Mid-coast Maine. Please take advantage of a free phone consultation to discuss your questions and concerns. Home visits, sliding scale & group workshops available. Contact: Elissa Garde-Joia at 207-322-5600, elissagardejoia@gmail.com.

35 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.

integrative healing–cont.

the living tea room integrative healing in Portland, Maine

The Living Tea Room is an integrative healing practice founded by Jessica Healy.

Jessica has a master’s degree in integrative medicine and is a certified practitioner of Soul-Centered Healing; a spiritual healing discipline that combines hands-on energy medicine with soul-guided imagery/inner journeying work. Jessica encourages anyone, from someone with a major illness to someone who wishes to explore alternative medicine for the first time, to contact her for further information. www.thelivingtearoom.com, Exchange Street, Portland, (207) 653-5860.

Dragonfly, LLC Sandra Diamond, M.A., Ct.H.,RMT Journey through the Rivers of Time and Space, into the Lands of Wisdom and Healing.

visit www.dragonfly-llc.net.

M a i ne Roberta Barnes, CHT, Gendai Reiki-ho & Komyo Reiki Shihan & Herbalist Roberta Barnes completed the updated Shihan (Teacher/Master) level in Japanese styles of Reiki directly under Hiroshi Doi, who is a member of the Usui Reiki Ryoho Gakkai in Japan, and Rev. Hyakuten Inamoto, who is also a Buddhist monk in Japan. Her Natural

Healing & Learning Center, nestled in a wildlife habitat, in Windsor, Maine, is the perfect environment to reflect the harmonizing essence of the spiritual practice Mikao Usui founded. Encased in harmonizing relaxation, you can return to your natural state of well-being by... * Learning Japanese Usui Reiki, * Experiencing one or more Reiki healing sessions, * Learning Peace through Meditation or Daianshin Meditation,* Scheduling a personalized herb report, * Experiencing a guided meditative journey into your past or * Learning to raise your awareness through nature.

The natural healing Roberta Barnes teaches and practices can bring you the ultimate in relaxation while speeding recovery of imbalances in the mind, body, and spirit. Visit www.naturalhealinglearning.com or call (207) 445-5671 today.

Osteopathic P hysician Acupuncture Practitioner, Certified Hypnotherapist, EF T-Adv Holistic Facial Rejuvenation For those seeking gentle, safe, alternative methods to improve health and performance Dr. Philpott offers a multidisciplinary approach. Used alone or in combination,

osteopathy, auriculotherapy (ear acupuncture), hypnotherapy, EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques), and Quantum Touch Technique® modalities are highly effective in treating medical conditions and physical/emotional concerns as well as improving performance. These treatments offer excellent results in areas such as pain, stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, phobias, weight loss, smoking cessation, sports and public speaking. Free initial consultation. For more information or an appointment call (888) 598-5445. Conveniently located at, 222 St. John Street, Suite 130, Portland, ME. Now accepting insurance, www.DrPhilpott.com.

Ron and Joan

Are You Listening? Through the challenges of our lives 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 (207) 799-7998 with questions or for more information.

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

TO BECOME PART OF THE INNER TAPESTRY COMMUNITY AS AN ADVERTISER, DISTRIBUTOR, CONTRIBUTING WRITER OR ARTIST Call 207-799-7995 or visit www.Innertapestry.Org

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Supporting client wellness, Sandra, is an internationally trained teacher, healer, registered Hypnotherapist, Reiki Master and has obtained a Masters in Experiential Health. She has studied Shamanic healing and counseling for more than six years and additionally, performs Soul Retrievals. Sandra was initiated as a Tamang Shaman in a Buddhist monastery in the Himalayan foothills of Nepal, received certification in TuiNa, an ancient Chinese technique from the Xuan Wu hospital of Beijing and is certified by the Sixth Sun Foundation as a Toltec teacher under the auspices of don Miguel Ruiz. Sandra also leads annual trips to the pyramids at Teotihuacan, Mexico. Her background provides for a wide variety of techniques and experiences in support of her clients. Contact Sandra at (860) 665-9034, email Drgnflyllc@aol.com or

Dr. Adi Philpott

36 integrative healing–cont.

integrative healing–cont.

Massachusetts

FERN DYER - Reiki Master/IET Practitioner Reiki with Crystals, Stones, Integrated Energy Therapy, Reading, Write-up. Our intuition guides us to the stones and crystals

necessary for our development. Reiki is introduced to balance the body, mind and spirit so your innate healing ability can be bolstered. If you choose, Integrated Energy Therapy is added.

IET provides a simple and gentle way to open the flow of vital life force within the human body and energy field by integrating suppressed feelings from cellular memory and clearing their associated energy blockages. Your messages are discussed. A write-up (detailing the meanings of the stones, the meanings of the flowers, animals, etc. that I saw/ heard/felt during the session and any other messages received) is then sent to you. Call (207) 415-8638 or e-mail: fdyer@maine.rr.com for an appointment/more information.Visa/MC accepted. Jewelry, nature photos. Now in-town Portland, www.lilysongbird.com.

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"

life mastery Kevin Pennell, Usui and Karuna® Reiki Master Teacher/Herbalist/ Hypnotherapist/Shamanic Practitioner/Psychic Empath and Vickie Cummings, Licensed and Nationally Certified Massage Therapist/Cranio Sacral Therapist/Usui & Karuna® Reiki Practitioner:

SpiritWings CompassionateHealing

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Massage – Including Therapeutic Massage – Seated Massage – Couples Massage and Outcalls available, Craniosacral Therapy, Herbal Consultations, Hypnotherapy, Reiki and Karuna® Reiki, Past Life Regression, Shamanic Services and Readings. We consult with each client to identify the appropriate modalities to achieve self-healing and overall well-being. We offer Reiki and Karuna® Reiki Classes plus other workshops to guide you on your spiritual journey. Visit SpiritWings apothecary for a cross-cultural variety of enchanting gifts, herbs, herbal tea blends, supplies and accessories to aid your spiritual journey, including Fair Traded and Quartz Singing Bowls, Books and Chimes.

SpiritWings is conveniently located at 85 Main Street (across from the Post Office) in Bethel, Maine. Sessions by appointment. Store hours Tuesday through Saturday 10 - 5. Telephone (207) 824-2204 or visit us on the web at www.SpiritWingsBethel.com. Credit Cards accepted.

Maine 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.

Sandra Maguire, Reiki Master

Energy Healing for Mind~Body~Spirit Student of Ayurvedic Medicine Sandra is a Reiki Master who incorporates Quantum Touch & Therapeutic Touch Techniques into her energy work sessions. She has a strong intuition, a compassionate

heart, and the desire to help people heal. Benefits of her work may include deep relaxation, anxiety and stress reduction, release of blocked feelings and emotions, support for the immune system, and improved meditation and self actualization. Her sessions are an opportunity to decompress and reconnect with yourself. Sandra will be a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner in June 2010. Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine, with the belief that the mind, body, and spirit cannot be separated. Each and every person is looked at as an individual from every perspective, and treatment plans are devised as such. Educational seminars in Spring 2010. www.SandraMaguire.com (207) 838-1602 Facebook Fan Page: Sandra Maguire, Reiki Master, smaguire08@gmail.com.

TAROTWORKS Jeanne Fiorini A tarot reading is an avenue by which to have an authentic conversation about what matters most in your life. Tarot Works provides numerous ways to

experience the wisdom and beauty of this ancient system of symbols, by offering individual and group readings, classes from beginner's level to "readers in training," ongoing monthly groups, and special events. Phone readings are available.

With 18 years experience as a Tarot practitioner and teacher, and formal training in both mediation and psychosynthesis counseling, Jeanne brings a unique blend of practical guidance and useful information to all readings and classes. She is a contributing columnist for the American Tarot Association's website www.ata-tarot.com/reflections and is currently working on her second book, to be published by Schiffer Publishing Ltd., autumn 2010.

For more information about Jeanne or the TarotWorks offerings, visit www.tarotworks.com or call (207) 799-8648.

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 or email info@innertapestry.org 36 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

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meditation Maine

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) 368-5866, or email: James@SpiritualAwakeningRadio.com, Website: www.SpiritualAwakeningRadio.com/santmat.

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.

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

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 May – October.

reflexology & healing massage Maine Hands on Feet ~ Lynn Danforth, Certified Reflexologist Reflexology is an amazing stress-relieving technique. Relaxation is a skill that most Americans do not practice often. Stress builds

and builds until it becomes a lifestyle. Lynn Marie Danforth has been practicing Reflexology for over 5 years. Lynn specializes in therapeutic Reflexology.

Her greatest success is with tendonitis, plantar fasciitis and relief of tension. Lynn’s Reflexology sessions are quick, effective and could be the answer to your body’s cry for relief. Lynn has been able to show clients that change for the better is possible, that improved health is truly in your hands... and feet. To contact Lynn call (207) 767-5776 or 207-318-0129, or visit www.handsonfeet.net.

Nurture Through Nature

Since 1999, Nurture Through Nature has been offering transformative retreats and women's holistic canoe trips dedicated to creating lasting internal peace. You are invited to join

this inner peace movement through our guided meditation circles, gentle yoga, mindfulness practices and through Pleasant Mountain, Denmark embodying The Work of Byron Katie.

Experience balance through gently guided outdoor pursuits, connecting to the living earth and your inner self. Nurture Through Nature is a Maine - Certified Environmental Leader, committed to sustainability practices, including solar-powered facilities and our composting/recycling efforts. Eco-cabin getaways, customized solo and private group retreats are available to both individuals and practitioners. We rest on 33 pristine Let Us Guide You Home...

acres on Pleasant Mountain, just over an hour from Portland, Freeport and Lewiston, Maine and 3 hours from Boston. www.ntnretreats.com, ntnretreat@yahoo.com, (207) 452-2929.

It maybe cold outside, but here we'll find great offerings to warm our hearts!

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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.

Sewall House Yoga Retreat

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Maine

This land is a living resource! The 47 blessed

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

sacred space

Holistic Facial Rejuvenation Take Beauty to the Next Level More than a cosmetic procedure, Holistic Facial Rejuvenation using ELR™ is a revitalization process for the entire body designed to make you look and feel renewed. Lose that under-eye “baggage!” Turn jowls into a

jaw-line! Look rested, awake and rejuvenated! A complete course of treatment is 10 to 12 sessions, but noticeable results occur after only 1-3 treatments.

• Non-Surgical Facelift • Non-needle, Acupuncture-based • No Side Effects • No Pain • No Downtime for Healing • Holistic Anyone can benefit from ELR™ treatments. From acne to aging, ELR™ is a whole body rejuvenation that will bring your facial beauty to the next level!

Dr. Adi Philpott, 222 St. John St, Suite 130, Portland, ME 04102, (888) 598-5445, www.HolisticFacialRejuvenation.com.

Osteopathic physician, Acupuncture practitioner.

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

schools & trainings

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Earthrest offers indoor and outside gathering space for retreats, workshops, spiritual questing, ceremony and celebration. Come,

surround yourself with natural beauty in a country setting of organic gardens, open fields, woods and water where the land is still a little wild and the animals remember their true names. We are just 35 miles from Portland on 350 acres of very special land, nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains. Inside enjoy the large gathering spaces, both with fireplaces. Outside walk the land, the labyrinth and hiking trails. Many options available. FMI call Pat at (207) 625-4179 or email: earthrest@psouth.net.

Mahoosuc Mountain Lodge and Husky Farm are nestled on 60 acres in the beautiful Bear River Valley of Newry in western Maine.

The lodge is a traditional New England timberframe featuring hand-cut mortise and tenon joinery. It is the home base of Mahoosuc Guide Service and their working sled dogs (www.mahoosuc.com). In addition to the Lodge, the original 3-bedroom farmhouse built in 1903 has been renovated and is being operated as a Bed and Breakfast. Our views are dominated by the 3,500-4,000’ peaks of the Mahoosuc Range. We are: 1 mile to Grafton Notch State Park, 4.7 miles to the Appalachian Trail, 14 miles to Umbagog Lake National Wildlife Refuge, and 2 miles to the Grafton Loop Trail. Mahoosuc Mountain Lodge is a great facility to host a retreat, meetings, family reunions, dances/concerts, wedding or an outdoor activity. Please call Polly or Kevin at: (207) 824-2073 for more information or visit: www.mahoosucmountainlodge.com.

We are the light that we wish to see in the world Let it shine!

38 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

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 more information, call Board Certified Foot & Hand Reflexologist Myra Achorn, Augusta (207) 626-FEET. Classes start in February, May & September, www.treatyourfeet.com. Licensed by the State of Maine Department of Education.

Yokids

is a non-profit, tax-deductible organization. We teach yoga to elementary school children and their homeroom teachers. We can come to your school and teach

formal yoga classes or we can come to your classroom and help you to initiate a yoga program you can use on a daily basis in your class. We also offer Tools for Teachers, an in-house workshop, which teaches teachers to use four basic yoga tools in their daily teaching. These tools will allow teachers to help children with relaxation, breathing, and stress reduction, which will complement their overall learning and create a harmonious learning environment. Workshops can be scheduled as in-house workdays for teachers in public and private schools.

These workshops are individually tailored, and price varies according to the length. Please contact Lily Goodale at ngoodale@aol.com or (207) 236-6001.

Workshops can be given from Portland to Bar Harbor and are certified and part of the Yoga Ed foundation of yoga for children. www.yogaed.com.

39 schools & trainings–cont.

Chaplaincy Institute of Maine

Interfaith Spiritual Growth and Ordination

shamanic healing Maine

World Religions, Art as Meditation, Creation Spirituality, Interfaith Worship

Spirit Passages

First Year: The Way of Contemplation • Second Year: The Way of Action The next two-year program begins September 2009

Allie Knowlton, MSW, DCSW & Evelyn Rysdyk

ChIME offers a two-year program for Interfaith Spiritual growth and possible ordination as an Interfaith Minister.

Students commit to attending class one evening a week and one weekend a month September through May. Two weekend retreats are also built into the schedule. Some weekend workshops are open to the general public.

Tuition for the two years is $5,400.

Information and applications: ChIME Admissions, P.O. Box 3833, Portland, Maine 04104 (207) 347-6740 • chimeadmin@gmail.com • chimeofmaine.org

Healing Ways of Kennebunk Reiki Certification Classes

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.”

New Hampshire

The Center for Feng Shui and Intuitive Arts Would you like to learn how to arrange your environment to enhance your life? The Center for

Feng Shui and Intuitive Arts can teach you how to do just that! Feng shui is an amazing art and science revealing the patterns that our spaces hold. You’ll be inspired to employ timeless concepts and techniques, empowering yourself and others to thrive in contemporary times. Programs include feng shui certification, workshops, teleclasses and more. Onsite classes are held at Southern NH University, Salem, NH. Call Katina Lemay at (888) 211-2206 or go to www.center4fengshui.com for program details. Classes are for the general public as well as those seeking certification. You’ll also find us on the Diva Toolbox radio twice monthly. To listen, go to: www.divatoolbox.com and click on radio programs. You can listen live or to past episodes.

Our thanks to the many who support our community.

for Shamanic Studies 3-Year Program in Advanced Shamanism and Shamanic Healing, they have also been fortunate to study with indigenous shamans from Peru, Ecuador, Tuva and Siberia. Working heart-to-heart with Spirit, they offer all traditional forms of shamanic healings at True North (207) 781-4488 ~ a unique, multidisciplinary medical center that they helped to found. They may also be reached at: www.spiritpassages.com.

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 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 2010. More information about classes, private sessions, or ceremonies can be found at www.pachaworks.com or contact Eva directly at (207) 756-0488. "By

working with intentions of great love and spirit it is believed energy can move. A door opens and there is possibility of something new."

Debra Rainbow Heart Full Mesa Carrier & Lineage Keeper In the Andean Shamanic Tradition

Andean and Core Shamanism Healing Practices Munay-Ki Rites, Ceremonies & Despachos, Workshops, Mentorships, Classes & Retreats Energy medicine sessions on-site or at distance Shamanic Music & Visionary Art

I offer a safe, nurturing, sacred space for healing and transforming energetic patterns of fear/suffering into sources of wisdom, power and grace. Our work together might include: Shamanic Journeying, Deep Chakra Clearing and Illuminations, Soul Retrieval, Energy Extractions, Entity Removal, healing of soul or ancestral wounds from this or past lifetimes, rewriting Soul Contracts, the Munay-Ki Rites, energy-centered bodywork and/or ceremony.

My offerings incorporate 25 years of study and practice with master teachers, indigenous medicine men and women and wisdom keepers of the Americas including: Q'ero elder Don Francisco Chura Flores of Peru, Alberto Villoldo, Ph.D., Brooke Medicine Eagle and Foundation for Shamanic Studies Faculty, Nan Moss and David Corbin. info@rainbowheartshaman, com, (207) 929-6776, 59 Salmon Falls Road, Buxton, ME 04093, www.rainbowheartshaman.com www.munay-ki.org. Offering programs in Maine, New England, the Southwest and Peru.

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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,

As Spirit Passages, C. Allie Knowlton, MSW, DCSW and Evelyn C. Rysdyk (author of Modern Shamanic Living) have facilitated shamanic healings and taught shamanic workshops across the U.S. and Canada since 1991. Graduates of the Foundation

40 shamanic healing-cont.

D O R Y C OTE

…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, and this authorizes me to teach beginner and advanced shamanic healing methods. Please see my workshop schedule or make an appointment at www.earthlighthealing.com, email me at dory@dorycote.com, or call (207) 841-1215.

writing services Connecticut

Yoga ~ T'ai Chi 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 or Email: info@innertapestry.org.

Yoga ~ T'ai Chi ~ Aikido Connecticut COLCHESTER, CROMWELL, EAST HAMPTON, PORTLAND & WESTCHESTER Yoga for Health

Does your promotional material deliver results for your business? Does it align with the higher purpose of your

Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

business? An experienced writer, Karen creates promotional copy that establishes the value your product/service offers potential customers. Karen writes content for book jackets, ads, brochures, newsletters, press releases, websites, professional bios and more. She has authored as well as ghostwritten articles, profiles, book content, reviews and local news stories. Her work appears in local, regional and national wellness and spirituality publications. Let Karen create copy that speaks directly to your target audience—with clarity, integrity and creativity. (860) 638-8140 or email Karen at KarenMRider@comcast.net.

Maine

Marcie Loffredo, RYT ~ No experience needed. Styles of Yoga: Ashtanga, Vinyasa Flow, Hot Yoga, Back Care, Stretch and Tone, Weight Loss, Yoga-lates (combo of Yoga and Pilates), meditation, and relaxation.

Visit our website for details www.yoga-4-health.com or email us at marcialoffredo@sbcglobal.net or call (860) 267-8279.

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 BRUNSWICK

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

Deadlines for the Directory of Resources To Reserve space January 1st For all graphic and text material January 5th 40 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

Human Element Center

The art of movement and the role that it plays in our well-being cannot be underestimated. Come join us in one of our regularly scheduled Tai Chi, QiGong and meditation classes and explore movement with joy. Check out our schedule at www.humanelementcenter.com or call us at (207) 710-0331. Fort Andross Building, 14 Maine Street, Suite 410, Brunswick, ME 04011.

GORHAM Holistic Pathways Yoga & Healing Center Offering YOGA ONLINE. Now practice yoga in your home with a detailed 8-week series! In-studio classes available—all ages/abilities including Pregnancy Yoga, Family Yoga and Toning & Sculpting. Postures, breathwork, meditation and relaxation. (207) 839-7192. www.holisticpathways.com.

PORTLAND WholeHeart Yoga Center Portland's Kripalu-affiliated studio offers a full schedule of weekly classes for all levels. Our instructors are all Kripalu-certified and highly trained. We also offer weekend workshops, private instruction, and Kirtans (chanting events). 150 St. John Street, Portland.

(207) 871-8274, www.wholeheartyoga.com or email: info@wholeheartyoga.com.

41 Continued from page 9 ~ modern shamanic living ~ Holding Course and Leting Go transforming the very nature of what being human means—not only for ourselves but also for future generations. As creator beings that function in harmony with All That Is, we are renewing our planetary environment. The creative energies with which we align our hearts and minds can manifest miracles. Believe!

(1) For the full details of this material, please access the October/November 2009 Modern Shamanic Living column, “New Visions: Dreaming a New Dream” at www.innertapestry.org. In addition, members of Spirit Passages can receive more support thru accessing the September and October 2009 teleconferences recordings: http://www.spiritpassages.com/memberbenefits.html.

(2) Find out more at: http://www.spiritpassages.com/shamanicinnerbodyhealing.html.

© 2009/2010 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 though face-to-face contact with individual patients, 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. With Allie Knowlton as Spirit Passages, she offers workshops in advanced experiential shamanism across the USA and Canada and offers shamanic healing at True North in Falmouth, Maine. Her web site is www.spiritpassages.com.

Continued from page 26 ~ Immunity? with our Hearts calling. Each action is purposeful, as an expression of Love, and all are Lovingly supported no matter what the outcome.

This could raise questions, bring to the surface numerous feelings, as well as concerns, and I trust it will. I would like to leave you with an idea of a way of living with a "system of harmonious remembrance" is a gift that only knows Divine Love as its Source of support and sharing. With that as a truth the entire process of life as it is known, lived, expressed and experienced changes.

This article is an introduction to the possibility of living in a way which opens a "doorway" of potential Truth to be realized. In the next issue I will be expanding this article to share more expansive ideas and perceptions, which are in alignment with where I feel human life is evolving to.

Ron Damico resides in Scarborough, Maine with his partner Joan Emmons.

They have created, Ron and Joan, an energy based healing practice that supports and nurtures humanity. As the extension of that practice they also co-publish Inner Tapestry with Betty Close and are founding members of NESHA with Sherry Russenberger and Deb Robinson. Currently sessions are available in Maine and Connecticut, Ron maybe reached at ron@ronandjoan.com or 207-332-0128..

Our Love and Hugs to the World as Peace.

Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 41

Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

I have an idea... let’s begin to take steps into the Truth about ourselves and live life as Love in action. Begin to feel and choose to be that perfect Love we are in every moment that is Now. If that Way were chosen, our immune system and the idea of immunity would immediately change. The immune system could be expressed as the "system of harmonious remembrance." Let’s, for "chuckles and giggles," look at this system as a "Beacon of Remembrance" for the Universal thread which connects us with Divine Source and the sharing of a vibrational code from which we start and then contribute to, as we expand our relationship with ourselves, each other, and All That Is.—Because this thread is not a oneway feed. It can be looked at as an Internet cable or telecommunication line, which allows Truth and experiential information to travel in both directions simultaneously. As we allow this to become a true way of being we live in alignment with Truth and experience all of life as a gifted opportunity to live, Love and share all that we are without concern or fear in any form. This is Life Lived on purpose. From here all of Life is realized as an opportunity to live that Love in ALL situations, without exception. This applies to virus, bacteria, parasites, fungus, microbes, etc. When we live as the Love we are in awareness of "what is" without judgment or fear we, as an expression of Love, observe the Truth. We begin to take pause and chose the path we are drawn to experience in alignment

42

Calendar and Classified

Guidelines And AdvertisingRates Are Located on Page 44

H eart V isions

January, 2010 200-Hour Teacher Training on the Mayan Riviera

A 24 day Immersion. FMI: Contact www.ShivaShaktiYogaSchool.com or call (207) 431-8079.

March 14th-21st, 2010 Women’s Holistic Yoga Meditation Eco-Retreat in the U.S. Virgin Island’s renowned eco-resort Maho Bay. An enriching getaway in the Caribbean sun with Nurture Through Nature, www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929.

Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

March 14th-17th, 2010 Celtic Spirituality: The Wisdom of the Divine Feminine With Megan Don at Kripalu Institute, www.kripalu.org.

May 2010 through October 2010 Greenwood Herbals 2010 Herbal Apprenticeship A beginner's hands-on 6 month program meeting one weekend a month. The focus will be on native plant identification and use as well as to learn how to work with plants in our daily lives. FMI contact Debbie Mercier, Herbalist at herbalist@greenwoodherbals.com or visit www.greenwoodherbals.com.

May 16th-22nd, 2010 Avila, Spain: Walking with Teresa of Avila www.mysticpeace.com.

June 2010 Ireland Pilgrimage: Exploring the Divine Feminine www.mysticpeace.com.

December 13th, 10:00am–2:00pm Intro to Level 1 Zen Yoga Instructor Training (For serious yoga devotees and instructors), Shaman’s Dream, 180 Layfayette Rd. (Rte. 1), North Hampton, NH, (603) 379-6555.

January~Massachusetts January 9th I.D.E.A.L. Process (4) Create Life Ideals and Develop Tools for Manifestation & Protection. Fourth class in series; prerequisite: EOL Workshops 1-3. Presented by EOL Founders Sue and Aaron Singleton. $175; Early-Pay discount; 9.6 Contact Hours.

Details: Visit www.TheWayToBalance.com; (978) 834-0341.

January 23rd-24th, 9:00am-6:00pm both days EOL Visionary Acupressure System, Level I, Module 3: The EOL Acupressure System transcends the parameters of current systems, ensuring participants a positive, life-changing experience. Laypersons and experienced practitioners will benefit! See www.TheWayToBalance.com for full details; 36 contact hours $350; Early-Pay discount available.

January~NewHampshire January 2010 Spiritual Awakening and Psychic Development Class 10-week, intensive course taught by Internationally Known Psychic Medium, Isabeau Esby, designed to open up your life path, find and hone your psychic abilities, and begin living in abundance and spiritual flow! Dover, NH, Visit www.IsabeauEsby.com or call (603) 973-2317.

Upco ming M aine February 6th & 7th, 9:00am-4:00pm both days 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, Sophia’s Wisdom @ (207) 356-2662.

February 20th & 27th, 9:00am-4:00pm both Saturdays Karuna® 1 & 2 Practitioner Workshop

December ~Maine

Karuna-Compassion in Sanskrit. Learn Karuna symbols and their uses, toning with symbols, giving treatments, and much more. Ample practice time. FMI-Yvonne Thibodeau, Sophia’s Wisdom at (207) 356-2662.

December 4th and January, 7:00pm Roz and Company

March 6th & 14th, 9:00am-4:00pm both days Usui Reiki II Workshop

First Fridays at Meadow Wind, Falmouth. Join us for an interactive session with Roz and Company. Set in a question and answer format, Roz will discuss topics that are important to you from the non-physical perspective. Limited space, please call (207) 650-1543 to pre-register. $15 www.roz-quinn.com.

Learn symbols augmenting Reiki energy, treatment techniques, Reiki techniques, and guided meditation. Ample practice time.

FMI-Yvonne Thibodeau, Sophia’s Wisdom @ (207) 356-2662.

December 5th, Saturday, 3:00pm-7:00pm Holiday Open House and Silent Auction at Meadow Wind, free admission. Great Christmas Gifts, bid on beautiful art, jewelry, massage, wellness services, handmade items, photography, coaching, healing, tarot, beautiful gift items… or just come for a time of connection and fun at Meadow Wind 100 Gray Rd., Falmouth, ME (207) 878-3899.

December~NewHampshire December 11th, 4:00pm-8:00pm Aaron Hoopes, Sword Exhibition, Book & DVD signing, (author, instructor, founder of Zen Yoga) Shaman’s Dream, 180 Layfayette Rd. (Rte. 1), North Hampton, NH, (603) 379-6555.

December 12th, 10:00am–12:00pm Beginner Zen Yoga (No experience necessary, beginners welcome), 1:00pm–3:00pm, Intermediate Zen Yoga, 5:00pm–7:00pm, Zen Yoga Meditation, Shaman’s Dream, 180 Layfayette Rd. (Rte. 1), North Hampton, NH, (603) 379-6555.

42 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

UpcomingMassachusetts February 20th, 9:00am-4:00pm Rings of Oden–Module 2: Soar to New Heights!

The Rings combine Sacred Geometry, DNA Re-Patterning, Crop Circles, and Cell Microbiology concepts as part of a revolutionary technology, “Net-Neutral Ionic Energy.”

This advanced module includes over 50 new advanced configurations, 20 new on-the-body techniques, and more.

Details at www.TheWayToBalance.com; (978) 834-0341.

February 27th I.D.E.A.L. Process (5) The Real Quantum Leap to a Successful and Fulfilling Life Fifth class in series; Prerequisite: EOL Workshops 1-4.

Presented by EOL Founders Sue and Aaron Singleton. $175; Early-Pay discount; 9.6 Contact Hours. Details: Visit www.TheWayToBalance.com; (978) 834-0341.

March 20th I.D.E.A.L. Process (6) Heighten Discernment and Engage 9 Crucial Laws for Manifestation. Sixth class in series; Prerequisite: EOL Workshops 1-5. Presented by EOL Founders Sue and Aaron Singleton. $175; Early-Pay discount; 9.6 Contact Hours.

Details: Visit www.TheWayToBalance.com; (978) 834-0341.

UpcomingNewHampshire February 8th-12th Module I: Fundamentals of Feng Shui The Center for Feng Shui and Intuitive Arts, For more information call Katina Lemay at (888) 211-2206 or visit www.center4fengshui.com.

March 22th-26th Module II: Heaven, Earth and Man The Center for Feng Shui and Intuitive Arts, For more information call Katina Lemay at (888) 211-2206 or visit www.center4fengshui.com.

March 27th Fashion Feng Shui The Center for Feng Shui and Intuitive Arts, For more information call Katina Lemay at (888) 211-2206 or visit www.center4fengshui.com.

May 17th-21st Module III: Immersion in the Energetic Realms The Center for Feng Shui and Intuitive Arts, For more information call Katina Lemay at (888) 211-2206 or visit www.center4fengshui.com.

Ongoing~Connecticut Sunday ~ Bhakti-Yoga Festival – 5:00pm Join us for kirtan, philosophy and vegetarian dinner. No charge. Hare Krishna Temple. 1683 Main St. East Hartford CT 06108 (860) 289-7252, www.iskconct.org.

Ongoing Monthly Group Reiki Sessions Individual & Group Reiki Sessions, Reiki Shares & Classes.

Please call Carleen, RMT at (860) 642-7410 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. The Temple is located at the corner of Rte. 66 and Harvestwood Rd. Middlefield, CT. For information call (860) 346-2226; website: www.ct-eckankar.org

O ng o i ng ~ M aine Reiki - Healing Ways of Kennebunk 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.

Roz and Company First Fridays at 7:00pm at Meadow Wind, Falmouth. Join us for an interactive session with Roz and Company. Set in a question and answer format, Roz will discuss topics that are important to you from the non-physical perspective. Limited space, please call (207) 650-1543 to pre-register. $15 www.roz-quinn.com.

Send all listings to

info@innertapestry.org ALL EVENTS ARE LISTED ONLINE AT www.innertapestry.org

43 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, www.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 Hassenpflug (207) 592-7888.

Sunday Night: Portland Spiritualist Church meets at 719 Main Street, Westbrook (UU Church) 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, 719 Main Street, Westbrook (UU Church) for an evening of messages from Spirit.

7:00pm $10 event. FMI call (207) 655-6673 or visit our website at www.portlandspiritualistchurch.org.

Friday Night: Weekly Psychic Development and Awareness Classes, except for the 4th Friday which is Gallery Readings - see above. Portland Spiritualist Church, 719 Main Street, Westbrook (UU Church). Classes start at 7:30pm.

Most classes are by donation. FMI call (207) 655-6673 or visit our website at www.portlandspiritualistchurch.org.

Satsang/Meditation ~ Camden/Lincolnville.

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.org.

Sharon Elaina would like you to know… that women's groups have begun in her new space at 925 Sawyer St., So. Portland. Tuesdays 6:00pm and Thursdays 12:00pm. Groups are limited to 8. Please call (207) 247-2650 for more information.

Tarot Readings - Third Thursday each Month Gallery-style Tarot readings for all those in attendance. South Portland location 6:30pm-9:30pm. $25. Group size limited; register early! FMI/Register Jeanne Fiorini (207) 799-8648.

Energize! A holistic approach to performance Energy balancing sessions for artists, actors, and performers, recover your highest creative self. Post-performance rebalancing. $80 ($70 students) Holistic Pathways, Gorham, (207) 839-9819 www.starlightacting.org.

The Womanly Art of Self Defense and Empowerment Ongoing course for women, awareness & prevention skills, verbal self-defense & empowerment, basic self-defense techniques.

(207) 266-4902, Trenton Family Karate, Trenton/Ellsworth area.

Hatha Yoga, Meditation, Satsang Classes in Psychological & Spiritual Development & more.

Based in the Tradition of the Himalayan Sages. North Yarmouth.

For full listing, see www.TurningLight.org (207) 829-2700.

The Path of Celtic Buddhism

Silent meditation based on works of H.W.L. Poonja & Ramana Maharshi. Tapes, Readings & Films too. Meetings Tuesday evenings at 6:30pm. Info Call: (207) 763-3860.

Celtic Buddist meditation in Rockland, ME. Group practice on Sunday mornings at 8:30am. Please call for information (207) 701-5022, heartln@sover.net, www.celticbuddhism.org.

Qigong group starting at THE LANDING,

"Yokids" Yoga Ed Tools for Teachers Workshops

"Positively Moody Blues" radio show

Thank God It's Grace: Women in God, Women in Good

Reiki Share second Tuesday of every month. Well-Being and Healing Classes Regularly. Offering Tibetan/Usui and Karuna® Reiki-Meditation Classes and Ancestral Healing, which examines various methods of healing employed by our ancestors. For further information call (207) 824-2204 or visit website www.spiritwingsbethel.com.

Doula tea, meet with doulas in person Learn how doulas help families during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. We meet Sundays at the Birth Roots, 101 State St., Portland from 4:00pm-5:00pm. There is no fee, preregistration is required. Call Rebecca Goodwin at (207) 318-8272.

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, frop 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.

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.

Planetary Activation Organization in Maine Is actively looking for people to join this group. For info visit www.paoweb.com. If interested, call (207) 743-2613, E-mail bobham@adelphia.net, or write Maria Ham, 51 BumpTown Rd, South Paris, ME 04281.

Children’s Aikido Kokikai Class Josiah Bartlett Elementary School in Bartlett NH, The Ballroom in Harrison Maine, Water and Stone Yoga Studio in Conway, NH, Contact Jane Biggio for more information at (603) 374-6326 or email at bamboomountain@ncia.net.

Holistic Pathways Yoga & Healing Center, Gorham.

Energy Vibrational Healing Therapies including Polarity and Energy Interference Patterning of DNA. Ongoing Reiki & Therapeutic Touch classes. FMI: (207)-839-7192, www.holisticpathways.com.

with Astrologer Ananur Forma every Thursday, 8:00pm9:00pm, streaming online www.wrfr.org. Ananur will be playing only the music of the positive, ever-uplifting Moody Blues from past to future. Ananur will sprinkle in a little astrological information when she does the weather forecast; other than that it's all Moody Blues! For more information: (207) 594-0721.

WRFR community radio for the people by the people.

Please join Women In God each Thursday, 4:30pm-5:30pm at Meadow Wind 100 Gray Road, Falmouth, for an hour of peace, grace and spiritually-based conversation. Women in God is a non-denominational spiritual support group that welcomes all women on a path of love, hope and inspiration. For more information call (207) 233-7658, or visit www.womeningod.com.

Meditation and Buddhism:

Bridgton's new freestanding birth center hosts monthly tours on the first Thursday, 6:30pm-7:00pm. Stay for free informational sessions. www.birthhouseme.com or (207) 647-5919.

All are welcome, no experience necessary. $15 or 4 classes for $50. Mind/Body Therapy at Cancer Community Center 778 Main Street, South Portland, Maine, (207) 650-3964, FMI www.mbtherapy.org.

Wavelengths Hypnotherapy ongoing classes:

The Rose Cottage

Nagaloka is a spiritual community that provides space for individuals to explore and practice Buddhism. Weekly mediation sessions, retreats and introductory classes on meditation and Buddhism are scheduled regularly.

Bookstore, too! www.nagalokabuddhistcenter.org.

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

Tuesday Buddhist Meditation We practice Dzogchen Meditation; Natural Love and Awareness; and Natural Compassion and Awareness. 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.

MOOSE Open Microphone-Spoken Word The Maine Organization Of Storytelling Enthusiasts serving the Storytelling Community of Maine meets monthly on the second Wednesday from 7:00pm-9:00pm at the North Star Cafe in Portland. http://mooseevent.bravehost.com.

Earthrest Discussion Series Earthrest is offering a series of weekly discussion groups using workbooks developed by Northwest Earth Institute: Sustainable Living, Deep Ecology, Global Warming. FMI: (207) 625-4179 or earthrest@psouth.net.

Nia With Maggie Bokor Find bliss in your body! Nia is barefoot movement blending dance, yoga and martial arts. Check out Maggie's Portland area classes at www.dancenia.com, (207) 899-5939.

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.

Yoga Class in Windham Mondays 9:00am-10:15am and Wednesdays, 5:30pm-6:45pm at the Masonic Hall on River Road. Please contact Rebecca at (207) 749-4150 for more information.

The Birth House

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, ME.

Real-ize Your Integral Potentials Real-ize your multidimensional self! Integral Energy Healing ~ Explorations in Consciousness ~ Leadership in Consciousness ~ Life Transformations. We offer sessions, classes, circles and workshops. Elizabeth@IntegralPotentials.com (207) 873-3514.

Kittery, ME: Rawfood Potlucks, 5:00pm Third Saturday of each month, with guest speakers from the rawfood community. Support, learn, share, and build a local rawfood community. Call Aimee, (207) 409-0899.

Inner Light Church of Spiritualism, Rev. Gloria Nye Location: Governor King Lodge 649, U.S. Route 1, Scarborough, ME, Sunday Services: 10:00am Healing Chairs, 10:30am Service, Healing Meditation, Inspirational Talk, Messages from Spirit, 12:00pm Fellowship Hour – Refreshments.

Ayurvedic Massage Experience Abhyanga, Garshana and Shirodhara, the ancient healing bodywork techniques of India. Ruthanne Harrison, LMT. Located in Richmond, ME (207) 737-8593.

Reiki Works offers all levels of Reiki Classes, sessions and free clinics. For schedule please contact Andrea Smith, B.S. Rehabilitation at reikiworks@beeline-online.net (207) 474-9962.

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.

Artists Support Group, Inner Balance, Belfast, ME On 156 High Street. Third Tuesday of the month from 7:00pm-8:30pm. Call Elliot Benjamin at (207) 338-4576.

Mindful Meditation™ Thursdays, 12:00pm-1:00pm

Teaching Reiki Master, Transformational Breath, Crystal Healing, Hypnotherapy, and Hypnobirthing. Private sessions by appointment. Gift certificates. Ongoing classes. Contact Vicki Kupferman 14 Weed Rd., Knox, Maine. (207) 568-3782.

Kripalu “DansKinetics” The body, mind, spirit workout blending yoga and dance.

No experience necessary. Free trial class. Days Meadow Farm, 889 Alewive Rd. Kennebunk. (207) 985-6896 or: daysmeadowfarm@prexar.com.

Sacred Circle Dance Dances from a multi-cultural folk dance tradition.

Steps taught at all sessions. No experience/partner needed.

Fourth Friday of every month, 7:00pm-8:30pm, Portsmouth, NH. FMI: amyla44@juno.com, (603) 750-7506.

Experience the healing of Love without conditions Ongoing classes. Learn the freedom of healing without limitations. Shamballa 1-4 and 13D Certification. Contact Elizabeth, Center of Momentum, (207) 873-3514, or centerofmomentum@hotmail.com.

Short-term Solutions-oriented Couples & Family Work Guiding Couples & Families from conflict to communication, from disengaged to connected, from hurting to resolution.

Group and private sessions. Call Maureen McCarty-Darling at (207) 975-5200.

Wise Women Daughters of the Moon Ceremonial Wisdom Circle honoring our Inner & Outer Seasons & Cycles. Sliding Scale. FMI: www.spiritualrenaissance.com, www.templeoftheheart.com or call Deborah, spiritual guide, priestess: (207) 883-1081.

Continued on page 44 Dec 2009/Jan 2010 Inner Tapestry 43

Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

Center for the Healing Arts in Portland on Tuesdays at 6:30pm.

These gentle movements balance and strengthen your vital life energy, leading to better health and a deeper spiritual connection. Call (207) 699-4299 for more information or visit www.thelandingcenter.com.

Yokids instructors Lily Goodale and Lynnette Moore will come to your school and train homeroom teachers to use simple, yoga-based mind/body integration techniques to enhance their teaching and support a harmonious teaching environment.

Please contact Lily Goodale, ngoodale@aol.com, (207) 236-6001.

SpiritWings–Workshops, Reiki Classes in Bethel ME

44 Belfast Yoga Studio. Iyengar style Hatha Yoga

NESHHA Educational Presentation

HEALING PLACES

All levels including, Beginner, Level I, Level II, Gentle & Private classes & workshops. For more info and schedule see www.belfastyoga.com or call (207) 338-3930/338-4256.

The New England Seacoast Holistic Health Association (an organization of Healthcare Professionals), has meetings monthly, third Thursday, Potluck 6:30pm, Networking 7:00pm at the Herbal Path, 839 Central Ave., Dover, NH. www.NESHHA.org.

Eco-Retreat in a Solar-Powered, wood-fired cabin.

Aaminah School Of Middle Eastern Dance All levels of belly dance classes taught by experienced and caring instructors. Bangor and Waterville classes. Visit our website: www.aaminahdance.com or jeason@pivot.net.

“SANT MAT RADHASWAMI SATSANG” Inner Light & Sound Meditation. Surat Shabd Yoga. For a Bangor, Waterville, & Portland meeting schedule, call James at: (207) 368-5866 or James@SpiritualAwakeningRadio.com.

Ongoing~NewHampshire Sunday Service weekly at 10:00AM for all ages Unity of the Seacoast, both church and spiritual community, honors all paths of God. Affiliated with the publishers of Daily World magazine and the Silent Unity prayer line, we are a positive, practical, New Thought Christian movement that values personal transformation and conscious connection with the loving Presence of God. Everyone is welcome to join us for a celebration of life, love and joy! Unity of the Seacoast, 3 Front St., Salmon Falls Lower Mill Building, Rollinsford, NH 03869, (603) 749-0677 or info@Unityoftheseacoast.com.

Tai Chi for Health Thursday, 5:30pm-6:15pm, $15 pay as you go. Zev Yoga, 16 Market Square, Portsmouth, NH. Age 14 and older.

Calendar of Events

Eaton Satsang An informal gathering to discover and welcome the truth of one's inner nature. Eaton, NH is near the Maine/NH border.

Most Wednesday evenings. www.eatonsatsang.com or (603) 447-5401.

Experience deep quiet and nature's beauty in a solar-powered, wood-heated eco-cabin getaway at Nurture Through Nature Green Retreat Center in Denmark, Maine, only an hour from Portland/Freeport/Lewiston, ME and 2 hours northwest of Portsmouth. Cost $59-$65/night for one-two. Add $20 each additional person. Two cabins available, both sleep four. www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929.

Ongoing~RhodeIsland

SACRED RENTAL SPACE

Bridge Between Two Worlds Radio Show

A Place In The Heart

Mediumship, Physical Phenomena and more. Contact Talk Radio Mondays 8:00pm-9:00pm EST, Listen Live www.bridgebetweentwoworlds.net. Host Pamela Marie Edmunds, (508) 273-0022.

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.

Classified Listings

SACRED SPACE FOR SALE

HELP WANTED

Retreat Cook Wanted~Nurture Through Nature Experienced whole-foods cook for group(s) up to 14. Trade for opportunity to participate in holistic nature retreats.

Send indoor/outdoor experience to ntnretreat@yahoo.com, www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929.

Space Available for Gatherings, Ceremonies, Presentations.

At Earthrest, Cornish, ME. Call (207) 625-4179.

WWW.BESTMAINEWATERFRONT.COM Two unique sunset lake front offerings. Privacy with accessibility to both Bangor and Bar Harbor. FMI see website or call Alison Cote (207) 632-3662.

VACATION RENTAL SPACE WWW.MAUIVIEWSKOHALA.COM A Peaceful retreat on the northern tip of the Big Island of Hawaii. Super introductory rates and low airfares make this "suite" vacation a temptation not to be denied!

~ Ongoing Event Listings ~

Classified Ads

Inner Tapestry 's ~ calendar of Events and Classified Guidelines Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

~ 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.)

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

Classified ads are $20 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.)

Please send formatted listings.

We do not publish press releases.

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

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Continued from page 20 ~ The Mary Garden Violet – Mary’s Humility Lavender – Our Lady’s Drying Herb Rose – Our Lady’s Emblem Bee-Balm - Sweet Mary Lemon Balm – Sweet Mary Rosemary – Rose of Mary or Saint Mary’s Tree Mints – Our Lady’s Mints Dandelion – Mary’s Bitter Sorrow German Chamomile – Mary’s Plant Sage – Mary’s Shawl Thyme – The Virgin’s Humility Motherwort – Saint Mary’s Hand Mullein – Mary’s Candle Horehound – Mother of God’s Tea Marshmallow – Our Lady’s Cheeses Hawthorn – Mary’s Mayflower Hollyhock - St. Joseph’s Staff Red Clover – Our Lady’s Posies Meadowsweet – Our Lady of the Meadow Catnip – Mary’s Nettle Tansy – Our Lady’s Plant St. John’s wort – Mary’s Glory There is an amazing resource available to anyone wishing to create their own Mary Garden. It is the website www.mgardens.org run by John Stokes, one of the founders of the Mary Garden in Pennsylvania in the early 1950’s. Stokes’ website is an extensive archive of articles written about Mary Gardens, including historical information on their medieval traditions. The site lists hundreds of plants called Mariana because their names, as recorded by botanists, folklorists 44 Inner Tapestry Dec 2009/Jan 2010

and lexicographers, symbolize Mary’s life and mysteries. You can also peruse a whole library of articles on Mary Garden devotions, from theology to prayers and meditations.

The site includes step-by-step guides to creating Mary Gardens for patio, home, parish, indoors and on windowsills. The details explain how to obtain as well as grow the plants successfully.

I leave you with this Meditation on a Flower by Andrea Oliva Florendo, author of The Liturgy of Flowers in a Mary Garden:

Look on the flower for a few seconds.

Then, close your eyes.

Make your mind calm and quiet.

Imagine this flower in your heart.

Imagine that petal by petal the flower is blossoming.

Feel that you are the flower and that you are growing inside your heart.

Bloom! Bloom! Bloom!

Gail Faith Edwards is a practicing community herbalist with thirty years experience and the mother of four children born at home and raised on home-grown herbs and vegetables.

She and her family run Blessed Maine Herb Farm, offering medicinal herb products of impeccable quality, safety and effectiveness, made with MOFGA certified organic herbs and flowers grown in their gardens or wild gathered from the pristine wild nearby. www.blessedmaineherbs.com, herblady@blessedmaineherbs.com

45 Continued from page 15 ~ the way of life itself ~ With Embodied Mind We Experience The Living Reality Embracement, Embodiment is the process of self-knowing and connecting with living reality.

Skye Hirst, PhD is researcher, executive/personal coach, presentation facilitator and co-founder with Norm Hirst of Transcendental Autognomics (TA); New Field of Life-Energy and Transcendental Science/ Philosophy going beyond scientific materialism to discover the emergent epi-principles within life-itself.

The mystery/the miraculous/the wisdom of life-itself is revealing herself and Skye is doing presentation/ discussions on latest revelations impacting us all during this time of transition. Her 30 years of experience as communication consultant, her love of the arts and nature inform her work as does her 30 years as energy medicine practitioner of Jin Shin Jyutsu. To receive Transcendental Autognomics email newsletter on how latest revelations are impacting us all, visit us www.autognomics.org or join us on Twitter @ autognomics for frequent tips and insights, plus see who we are following.

Continued from page 17 ~ destination healing ~ SNE ~ Embracing Intuition... the parameters of time, space or physicality.

You think you can control all movement in your life, the great impact of thoughts and energy, and stop the natural dynamic of change? Come on, people!

KR: What is the future of body-mind-spirit healing? And second, what can a person do to live in a state of grace, even in these times of anxiety?

CM: You begin with taking responsibility for all of who you are. Let go of the sense of entitlement that holds you hostage. Get back down to Earth. We’ve been trapped in this illusion that we’re entitled… entitled to money we didn’t work to earn, entitled to God in three deep-belly breaths… entitled to invade a country to maintain a way of life.

So, stop pursuing illusions, about who you should be, what fantasy job you should have. Take a real hard look at the truth of who you are and what you can do. Embrace yourself. What can you realistically do with your life, with your talents?

Be honest. Reach inside yourself and discover your skills and talents. Courage.

You’ve got to have the courage to develop those talents. Stop waiting for others to approve and give you permission. Stand in your power. Embrace it. We have to stop being cowards and get on with the business of getting on with life, for ourselves and our communities—for the world.

And, never ever let go of hope. http://www.carolinemyss.com for information on courses, lectures, and books and other products.

Karen M. Rider, M.A. is a freelance writer specializing in holistic and metaphysical subjects. Her articles, profiles, book reviews and promotional copy appear in local, regional and national publications including Door Opener, Natural Nutmeg, Angels Among Us, Dream Network Journal and The Writer magazine. Karen also writes fiction centered on the awakening of human-spiritual potential. Her first novel is underway. She is co-writing Eating... The Angel Way with intuitive medium Annie Kelleher due to publish in 2010. Karen lives in Cromwell, CT. Learn more: KarenMRider@comcast.net or call (860) 638- 8140. Visit Karen's Blog: The Writing Parent www.thewritingparent.blogspot.com

Continued from page 31 ~ exploring the world religions ~ The Reality And Not The Illusion Of Having A Guru Part 2 in the mainstream exoteric religions. Rather – what’s especially noteworthy about mystic paths is, they may have Living Buddhas, Living Christs, Living Rumis, Living Hildegards, Living Kabirs, a Living Master or Meister Eckhart, a Living One: a living mystic or saint with us now, here on Terra firma in the Twenty First Century.

Living Students Have Living Teachers For it is the ability to truly listen that gives birth to an awareness of a message, and an appreciation of a messenger. An Infinite God could never have a limited number of inspired words, or be forever bound by bookbinders. If there is no inspiration now, how could there ever have been any inspiration in days gone by? There is also no missing element or trace mineral, once present in the water supply during the middle ages or earlier times but now gone, that once caused

the appearance of prophets and saints, and accounts for their absence now. What was true then is true now. The same need that brought great souls into the world during past centuries is still with us. My experience and belief is that the age of prophets, apostles, masters or saints is still with us, that there is a Living Gnosis Now. There are living Masters in the world today. The reality and not the illusion of having a guru, begins here, with this openness to the possibility of Living Ones Now.

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.

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Let me try to put into words some recent insights I’ve gained in working with clients and our theory of organism. Remember the limitation of words, but I ask you to feel what these words are pointing out about a common living experience as organisms.

Ever notice how a baby can capture our hearts and minds? Jesus said, “Except that ye become as little children you cannot enter the kingdom of heaven.” The baby or child embraces life as a wholeness of possibility, no judgment, no parts. A baby is uniquely herself, authentically original moment by moment. We delight in the surprises of this creative life. As James says, we feel a “new zest, which adds itself like a gift to life."

There is renewed hope today just as in the time of Jesus when he reminded us that to be as little children we can experience our harmonious relation to that higher universe.

We’re evolving into life-itself awareness, out of materialism; opening into ourselves to be more like the baby, once again feeling the creative possibilities, connected rather than separate.

In watching an interview of an Aboriginal Elder (www.globalonenessproject.org), he reminds us that when his people say a place on earth is “sacred,” they are then asked, “What makes it sacred?" They see nothing special about it. What he points out is there is much “singing” that has gone into a place, a tree, a rock, and it’s invisible to the eye but not to the senses. To know such relation, requires an embodied mind; subjective, primary knowing.

New researchers are recognizing that universe the Aboriginal people have long known about. It is life, a living reality of organism, yet how it works has been invisible to the mechanistic worldview. It’s that machine-like thinking that has driven the gadgeteer sciences we have today.

Take a minute and think of a word, idea or person. Notice how you feel when you think of it. Write down a word and put your hand on the word. Notice what you feel in your body/mind self, not what you think, but how you feel.

Just as the baby does so effortlessly, we living beings can embrace a higher universe than our world of “thing-i-ness.” Babies learn how to act from these inner “felt senses.” Babies don’t deny or resist any aspect of the living experience, they act on their world, exploring ways to find effective action for themselves to live and find

coherence, being as true to their own natures as possible in the living context or environment they find themselves. There are vibrational signals everywhere that we sense if we haven’t learned to ignore them. Like heads and tales of a coin, we sense through a kind of “embracement” these contrasts in vibrations, learning how to act as they form an inner dynamic living landscape reality. For example, our eyes oscillate constantly and if they didn’t we’d be blind.

Now notice what lifts your spirits, makes you feel that “new zest which adds itself like a gift to life, and takes the form either of lyrical enchantment or of appeal to earnestness and heroism; an assurance of safety and a temper of peace, and, in relations to others, a preponderance of loving affections?”

Embracing one's own inner knowing – the whole, feeling the connection through those felt senses anchored in the body/mind field, will put you in touch with those universal value dynamics. They become like rudders for finding effective action and yes, meaning. This is a whole new article to come, but in the meantime… notice those moments when you feel included in something greater than yourself, even if it’s the social network you are signed onto. Notice how people get so excited when they can make something “Trend” world-wide on Twitter. People are experiencing their influence and connection to the whole.

So we (organisms) each live in a larger life-energy organism all forming as a unity, a sea of energy vibrations. We are not things, fixed parts. We are a living reality, living in a living reality constantly renewing, creating itself as a unity. We each influence one another in the subtlest of ways.

There is no “place” to find meaning in the visible thing-sense. But in James’ words, “We can experience union with something larger than ourselves and in that union find our greatest peace.” That something is higher because it is all-inclusive, an embracement of the organism we are all co-creating.

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Book Review

by Michael J. Caduto Through the Wild Heart of Mary By: Gail Faith Edwards ISBN: 978-09753022-7-9 Publisher: Bertha Canterbury/Rosina Publishing

This delightful book leads us down the worn stone cobbles of Monte San Giacomo. We meet the author’s friends and neighbors whose daily lives are rooted deeply in the rich soil of their gardens, even as their faith in the Madonna carries spirits aloft. The rhythms of the local planting cycles and rites of worship cultivate deeply the living of each day.

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Gail Faith Edwards provides a fascinating glimpse into the ancient roots of the worship of the Mother Goddess, dating back 35 millennia and expressed through many of the archetypal Heroines: Hera, Sybil, Venus, Eve and Mother Mary. One branch of this spiritual tradition finds the sacred Earth Goddess in the roots of fruit-bearing trees, as well as elm, sycamore and willow.

The author’s sojourn evokes musings from my own journeys, during which I have trod the timeworn paths of my ancestral paternal village of Pietravairano in the Campania region of Italy, only to enter the door of the church that was blessed by the town’s Patrono, Saint Eraclio. I have traveled with Earth stewards from Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon and walked among the wild herbs with devoted students of nature in Israel and Palestine. By moonlight, I meandered the vibrant streets of a Druze village set like a jewel on a hilltop in the Carmel Cost region of Israel, after breaking bread with a family whose lives are—as were those of their ancestors—steeped in the use of herbs for food, worship and medicine.

Culinary traditions grow out of a rich milieu defined by culture, faith and the herbs that grow in everyone’s home region. In this present book, the Blessed Mother Mary, and the devotions of the rosary, form the nexus of a spiritual journey into the heart of herbalism. On these pages the well-fingered rosary beads, and their associated prayers, gradually accrue to honor the 20 mysteries of faith in Mary and Jesus.

This book takes the reader on a unique journey, from the realm of the Earth Goddess to the precepts of faith in Mother Mary. It is a story simultaneously enlightened by humanity’s benevolence and darkened by our lapses into ignorance and violence born of fear.

Herein, herbal traditions are turned endearingly in the author’s hands and contemplated as the beads of devotion.

Believers in the Madonna, and peoples of all faiths, will discover a compendium of loving kindness, of spiritual and physical enrichment through the practices and teachings of herbs.

In the section entitled “The Rosary Garden” Gail Faith Edwards tells of the herbs and other plants associated with each mystery of the Rosary. She shares the folklore of these plants and explains their botanical properties and practical uses for food and medicine. Through stories, recipes and plant lore—all of which are grounded in a thorough knowledge of botany and nutrition—this rich storehouse of wisdom reveals that herbs are a gift from God to nourish our entire beings.

Through the Wild Heart of Mary is food for body, mind and spirit. To harvest among these pages is to watch the scales of a bud unfold. The deeper layers of meaning become more pleasing when they are savored like the subtle yet complex tastes and aromas of a good basil.

Autographed copies are available from the author at: www.blessedmaineherbs.com Excerpted from the Preface, written by Michael J. Caduto, author of Everyday Herbs in Spiritual Life: A Guide to Many Practices (SkyLight Paths).

He created and co-authored the Keepers of the Earth® series and Native American Gardening (Fulcrum). He also wrote Earth Tales from Around the World, Abraham's Bind, In the Beginning and A Child of God. Michael travels widely presenting environmental and cultural performances and programs. His website is www.p-e-a-c-e.net.

CD Review by Joan Emmons Immunity: Explorations in Self-healing and Transformation By: Tom Kenyon ISBN: 978-1-931032-13-1 www.tomkenyon.com Tom Kenyon is referred to as a psychotherapist, scientist, teacher, musician, songwriter, singer, shaman, author and teacher. He is highly respected throughout the world in all fields.

I've come to know him as the incredible artist that continually creates the magical and wonderful toning CD's that I love to experience. Tom is one of the few people that is able to use his voice in a range of four octaves.

people of Africa and the AIDs epidemic, saying that she knew that he could help. His willingness to be of service brought forth the channeled sounds that lead to this wonderful vocal-only recording. There are thirty-two tracks of different beings who channeled through him their own spiritual light into audible sound. These tracks then, are layered on top of each other to create the most astonishing music.

Tom's CD can be discussed in this review but to obtain its full impact on your "being" please visit his website and listen for yourself and experience the essence of, manifestation of, emanation of...

On Tom's website he writes about the 28-day process, whom he connected with and what these beings brought to the creation of these hauntingly beautiful tones.

Tom's CD quite often brings the listener to an altered state of consciousness, so be gentle after listening and take time to just relax and be within yourself afterwards. You may also experience a "healing response" from experiencing this CD, for each person will have his or her own personal response.

Immunity was created in response to a women's request, while Tom was facilitating a seminar. She asked him to help the

"It is now quite clear to me that this unique psychoacoustic program is a co-creative matrix. It is an auditory trail of spiritual light whereby the healing intentions and energies of these spirit healers can be joined with the intentions of those listening."

Each time I listen it is a new experience. With our inner loving guidance and the outer loving care of our bodies, Immunity brings to us an energetic wealth of support. Visit www.tomkenyon.com and try a listen, it will be worth your time.

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Book Review Excerpt by Rod Rotondi Raw Food for Real People By: Rod Rotondi ISBN: 978-1-57731-673-2 New World Library Some people think raw food is a new thing – a cutting-edge way of eating, newly discovered by scientists or Hollywood trainers for optimal beauty and health. In fact, a raw diet is not new. It is not the latest fad. Hominids have evolved over seven million years, and for the vast majority of that time we ate only raw, living foods.

The raw-food diet is about getting natural – about rediscovering the natural way for humans to eat. Because despite all the knowledge of humankind – all our science and technology – what will make us healthiest and happiest is to eat the foods that nature, in its wisdom, has provided. This original and longest-lasting human diet comprises primarily fruits, berries, nuts, seeds, vegetables, and greens.

This is the way our ancestors ate until the relatively recent discovery of fire.

The Organic Choice A raw-food lifestyle is about eating pure food from nature and giving ourselves the best food possible, so the choice to eat organic foods is fundamental. While the cost for organic products is a little higher, I view it as money I won’t have to spend on visits to my doctor. We can choose foods that have been treated with herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides (I call this slow suicide), or we can choose unadulterated, living, vibrant foods from nature.

According to the American Diabetes Association, vegetarian diets are associated with a reduced risk for obesity, coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and kidney disease. Additionally, virtually every health organization in existence advocates eating more fresh fruits and vegetables.

Book Review

by S c o t t C ro n e n w e t h

Conversations From The Neighborhood Ice Cream Shop: 8 Keys to Rediscovering Lost Dreams and Finding Your Life's Calling

By Denny Stockdale ISBN:978-0-9824837-0-1 Publisher: Stockdale Resource Group, Inc.

www.StockdaleResourceGroup.com

Do you remember the dreams you had for your life when you were a child, or first starting out as a young adult? Have you lived many of them? Did you ever really, consciously articulate and commit to them? Or did they just seem impractical, unobtainable, or maybe not as important as what you “had” to do?

If you’re feeling like it’s too late to chase those half-forgotten dreams, or if you’re not quite sure what your dreams are right now, then you might want to check out Conversations from The Neighborhood Ice Cream Shop: 8 Keys to Rediscovering Lost Dreams and Finding Your Life’s Calling. This heartwarming little book is all about supporting you to start out on a fresh, new path to selfdiscovery and self-actualization – at mid-life or even beyond.

The story line revolves around a chance encounter with a younger man that leads first-person protagonist Bill (a struggling, middle-aged businessman) on a short but meaningful journey to the neighborhood ice cream shop and the gentle wisdom of its proprietor, Randy. Each chapter evolves into the explanation

Or how about the fact that the livestock industry is one of the biggest polluters of all and is right at the top of the list of industries that contribute to global warming?

Did you know that the single most effective thing any individual can do to minimize their negative effect on global warming is to eat less or no meat?

The Real Deal I would like to remind you of one simple fact. And it’s such an important fact that I am going to write it in bold.

Human beings are the only animals on Earth that cook their foods.

Think about that. Then think about this: human beings are the only animals who suffer from a high incidence of degenerative diseases and other health challenges such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. There is a connection here!

I’m not saying that eating raw is a panacea for modern humankind. However, I am saying that ultimately a primarily raw-food diet is our natural way to eat and, if done correctly, will bring most of us maximum health and happiness.

All right, so what are the amazing possibilities? Like, how many ways can you prepare raw carrots and celery? I want to tell you that there is a whole cuisine that has been largely forgotten but is being rediscovered – and it is delicious! In raw cuisine, we can create virtually every taste and texture without adulterating the food.

Raw-food cuisine has rediscovered some of the oldest and healthiest food preparation techniques known to humankind, such as sprouting and lowtemperature dehydration. Did you know that the way humans first made bread is the same way we still make it in raw cuisine? In this kind of bread, the digestive enzymes are not killed. The food retains its natural nutrients – in fact, sprouting the grains greatly increases their nutritional benefits for the body.

Relationship with Food Many of us in this culture have lost our relationship with food. The only relationship many kids growing up today have with food is going to a drivethrough or popping a package into the microwave. The raw-food lifestyle is all about reestablishing our connection to our food and the planet. Raw food is more than just a cuisine — it’s a lifestyle. It is part of a more holistic way of looking at the world and our relationship to it. We see nature, and ourselves in it — nature is something we are part of, not something to be overcome.

Rod Rotondi is the author of Raw Food for Real People. His endeavors include an upcoming DVD series, Leaf Organics restaurants, Leaf Organics raw packaged food line, raw food prep classes and retreats, and a forthcoming television show. He lives in Los Angeles, CA. Visit him online at http://www.leaforganics.com.

Based on the book Raw Food for Real People ©2009 by Rod Rotondi. Printed with permission from New World Library.

of one of eight clever, acronym-based “keys” (like FAITH: Find Answers in the Heart; or my personal favorite, PRAISE: People Respond Admirably In Sincere Encouragement). Each key encapsulates an insight that provides guidance and inspiration for self-reflection, and which lines up with the questions and exercises/activities at the end of each chapter.

The acronyms, the exercises and even the narrative that makes up Conversations are deceptively simple. What might seem at first like a quick, light read without much depth is really quite the opposite. Commit a bit of time to working with the exercises and you may find that their kindly probing can slip beneath unconscious defenses and touch a deeper cord, perhaps long un-struck.

Even on a practical level, the exercises can help you express and focus on what you’d like to make happen in your life – whether it’s the complete transformation of your multi-dimensional existence or just a fun, new hobby.

Of course, introspection is one thing and action is another. But here again, there’s something about this unassuming, sweet (pun intended) little book that lends a sense of energy and possibility to life situations. You might find yourself making changes almost before you realize it, simply by virtue of opening up to your dreams and bringing them more fully into awareness.

You can purchase Conversations from The Neighborhood Ice Cream Shop from independent booksellers, on Amazon.com, or online at www.dennystockdale.com.

It might make a worthwhile gift for the holiday time or maybe a birthday. Where so many self-help or motivational books seem contrived on some level, or prompt resistance as they attempt to convince us of what we “should” do, Conversations puts some very worthwhile material out there in an engaging and accessible way.

Enjoy!

Scott Cronenweth is a freelance writer, shamanic/alternative healer and naturalist based in South Portland, Maine. To learn about Scott’s nature-based healing practice please visit www.gotbuddhanature.com.

For information about his birdwatching and nature tours visit www.naturalpathwalks.com.

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The Vegan Choice The vast majority of raw foodists are vegans. If you haven’t heard, there is a lot of new data pointing to the incredible health benefits of a vegan diet. Check out The China Study by Dr. T. Colin Campbell. It’s a book about possibly the most comprehensive study of human nutrition ever undertaken, which concluded that, in Dr. Campbell’s words, “People who ate the most animal-based foods got the most chronic disease... People who ate the most plant-based foods were the healthiest and tended to avoid chronic disease.”

Then there is the ethical side to it. It’s a nice feeling to finish a delicious, nutritious, and satisfying meal knowing that no animal had to be born, bred, and killed in miserable conditions so you could eat.

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