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A Holistic Journal Celebrating & Supporting LIFE! Oct/Nov 2008
u BEING YOURSELF u
F
R
E
E
Volume 7, No . 3
Inner
Tapestry Cyan Magenta Yellow Black
u About Face
u Loving Earth ~ Welcome To Gaian Voices
u Herbology Today ~ Part Three
u Modern Shamanic Living ~ The Matter of Masks
u On Finding Myself Middle Aged
u Destination Healing-SNE ~ She Is... Becoming Herself
u Bat Mitzvah and 70th Birthday Rite of Passage
u Awareness And The Art Of Seeing ~ Fire Wood Profanity
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Trager®
An Approach for Every Body www.trager-us.org
Movement Education. Body/Mind Integration. Gentle. Effective. Life-changing.
"Creating peace in the world, one person at a time." Dr. Milton Trager Maine Certified Trager® Practitioners Marlena O'Hagan-Buzzell Fryeburg, ME 207-212-7721 kmbuzzell@roadrunner.com
Gail Edgerly Portland, ME 207-761-3765 www.movementashealer.com
Virginia Reidy Islesboro, ME Kissimmee, FL 207-734-8132 904-874-4896
Liz Berks Cornish & Portland, ME 207-637-2074 207-653-8148 lizland@fairpoint.net
Carla Keene Portland & Bath, ME 207-653-8393 cskeene70@hotmail.com
Lew McGregor Hope, ME 207-763-3129
THE TRAGER® APPROACH
Positional Release Techniques for Muscles Taught by Denise Deig October 24th-26th, 2008; 9AM-6PM; 24 CE hours (NCBTMB) Merrill Farm Resort and Conference Center, North Conway, NH Tuition: $375 if registered three weeks in advance; $425 thereafter
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For more information, or to register: kmbuzzell@roadrunner.com, 207-647-3521 (H) / 207 212-7721 (C)
Training Locations: Portsmouth, NH Marlborough, MA and Wakefield, RI 2 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
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Inner T APESTRY Contents
This Issue's Theme BEING YOURSELF December/Januar y 2008: Prayers of Peace Februar y/March 2009: Animalwize April/May 2009: Home June/July 2009: Movement
A Holistic Journal Celebrating & Supporting LIFE!
Oct/Nov 2008
Features
Being Yourself
Page 4
by Joan Emmons
On Finding Myself Middle Aged
Page 6
by Mama Donna Henes
Bat Mitzvah and 70th Birthday Rite of Passage
Page 7
by Ina Albert
About Face
Page 8
by David Hyde
Make Room for Change
Page 11
by Kelly Dakin
The Power of Love
Page 11
by Rochelle Sparrow
Now Is The Time
Page 16
by Peter Calhoun
Herbology Today ~
Page 17
Enlighten Up ~ Zin Fishin'
Page 12
Loving Earth ~
Page 14
Departments
by Aaron Hoopes and Rita Lang Welcome To Gaian Voices
by Pat Foley
Modern Shamanic Living ~
Page 15
The Matter Of Masks
by Evelyn C. Rysdyk
A Breath of Healing ~ "To Thine Own Self Be True"
Page 18
Awareness and the Art of Seeing ~ Fire Wood Profanity
Page 19
Destination Healing NNE ~ by Kevin Pennell
Being Yourself Through Chiropractic Neurology
Page 20
Destination Healing SNE ~
She Is... Becoming Herself
Page 21
by Donna Amrita Davidge
by Jen Deraspe
by Karen Rider
Feng Shui & Geopathology ~ Zero-Point Energy
Page 23
The 21st Century Bohemian ~ Master Spotlight at
Page 26
The Way of Life-Itself ~ Being Myself Is An Act of
Page 28
by Werner Brandmaier by Teresa Piccari
Maine Media Workshops
by Norm and Skye Hirst
Value Intelligence
Exploring The World Religions ~ Decide To Be Peaceful~ Page 29 by James Bean
On Jainism
Mixed Media ~ Book, Website & Music Reviews
Directories
Yoga, T'ai Chi, Aikido & Meditation Directory Directory of Resources Heart Visions, Calendar of Events, Classifieds
Pages 43 – 45
Page 39 Pages 30-38 Pages 40-42
Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 3
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Part Three by Christopher J. Bashaw, RN
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Being Yourself ! by Joan Emmons
I would like to start this sharing by thanking my friend, Stephanie Kostopoulos, from Roots, for sharing this picture with me in the form of a card created by the company Recycle and photographer Heidi Lane. At one time in my life I would have called this a "bad hair day," but now all I see is a being who touches and opens my heart so that I may share the love and light that it brings forth. Isn't she beautiful? What actually is "being yourself?" Good question! There are as many definitions and perceptions of being yourself as there are people.
really are in any given moment and share that with who ever we are with, and feel the vulnerability of being with millions of people or maybe just one. We could be making our choices in life based on what we are drawn to, without judgement or expectation of making the right choice or of expecting to arrive at some destination "thinking" that we have now found ourselves, so that we can now "be" ourselves. I have to tell you, traveling to a place that we have never been to find ourselves seems to contradict itself. Can we find ourself there if we have never been there? How can I leave my baggage there and go back for it if I haven't been there before? But in actuality, the places that I have traveled within myself that have been the most familiar are yet the most foreign. It is in those places I have found the aspects of myself that I have left lying in wait for my conscious return. The word found to many implies that something has been lost. My computer dictionary, which by no means is the "be-all end-all" of definitions, does not list the word lost in the many ways the word found is described. Here are a few: Discover or perceived by chance or unexpectedly.
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A friend had a tarot card reading the other day and she shared some of the information with me. It turned into a great experience for me, to ponder and feel, yes feel, what perception I hold of being my self.
Discover after a deliberate (conscious) search.
My friend shared that there was a physical place (state) that she would travel to and find herself while being there. I began to unravel all of my past perceptions of what "being myself" was and what "finding myself" meant. What came to me was the many ways we travel to find ourselves. It looks different for everyone but for most one thing is usually there in the beginning... purpose.
To reach one's destination by one's own efforts, without knowing how to get there in advance.
Before we will allow ourselves to embark, we need a purpose. Not just because "I'm drawn to it," but real hard evidence that there is reason for this journey. Sometimes we even need a glimmer that we will arrive "there" before we will even begin. But if it is a journey, do we really have to leave to get started? This may or may not make sense. I have found that if we take this particular journey, needing a purpose, we will start down the path looking ahead and moving toward what we "think" we are. The cool part is that we need to stand still long enough to be able to see or "feel" that glimmer of what we actually are searching for. Still with me?
Recognize or discover something to be present. Discover the fundamentals truth's of one's own character or identity.
To reach the understanding or conscience of someone. All of this leads me to a knowing that is already within me; just to stop once again long enough to hear it, feel it, sense it and to actually take the time to choose how to bring it out into the world. We all have that within us, the ability to heal with a look, a touch, an embrace and often with words. The journey at some point will lose its initial purpose. If we continue to chase some illusive perception that we are something other than who we are, we will never realize that we can never leave, we are our own constant companion, we are our own counsel, we are our own guide, be it conscious or not. When we stop to listen, when we stop to feel in acceptance, we are as song writers Mike Post and Stephen Geyer's, theme song to 80's show The Greatest American Hero: Look at what's happened to me, I can't believe it myself. Suddenly I'm up on top of the world, It should've been somebody else. Believe it or not, I'm walking on air. I never thought I could feel so free. Flying away on a wing and a prayer. Who could it be? Believe it or not it's just me.
Now in the brief moments that it took to get down to the continuation of this writing, through the blank space, what did you feel? If you didn't notice anything go back to the last paragraph and experience it again. What you felt was You! You could say, You have found Yourself. Could it be that easy? That's right we have to stop to receive that glimmer of feeling of ourselves. The real question is where are we going and what is it that we think we are looking for? Ohhh... something other than what we are right now. Got it! This wonderful child represents to me, the ability we all have to just stop in the moment, share ourselves with the camera and maybe millions of people without going anywhere. The question for us is can we stop for that moment, day, week, month, year, lifetime to feel who we 4 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
It's like a light of a new day, It came from out of the blue. Breaking me out of the spell I was in, Making all of my wishes come true. Believe it or not, I'm walking on air. I never thought I could feel so free. Flying away on a wing and a prayer. Who could it be? Believe it or not it's just me. Happy travels everyone... Travel with(in) no other reason or purpose other than to be with you, just because.
Joan Emmons and Ron Damico are partners in an energetic healing practice seeing clients in Maine and Connecticut. Joan and Ron are also publishers of Inner Tapestry. They can be reached at www.ronandjoan.com.
5 INNER WORKINGS New this Issue: Hi Everyone! Welcome to our fall issue of Inner Tapestry, Our theme for this issue is Being Yourself. There are many great articles in this issue and I hope that you enjoy them. I have moved the section "On The Cover" to page 10 this issue. The feature artist, Elizabeth (Lizzy) Derecktor from East Boothbay, Maine, paints and designs clothing on an individual basis for people. Take a look and hopefully we will keep Lizzy busy with many new orders! Fall is again time for the energy that the world expresses through nature to start drawing inward, readying self for the winter months. As our daylight grows shorter and we relinquish the warm temperatures back to mother nature, so do we return our summer clothing to storage in trade for more cozy warm wear. There is a lot happening, transitions are taking place for most everyone. We sometimes don't realize how quickly things are moving. Or is this only a mind's perception of time? All I know is there is more that I would like to do than I can fit into a day, so we are looking for someone to assist in the day-to-day operations of the journal and our healing practice. Melissa Ellsworth from Leapin' Lizards shares in this growth. So together we have chosen to find a person to support our mutual interests. We have created an ad below, if you are interested please check it out. The Universe moves in strange ways. A dear friend said that she felt that God/ Universe was teaching her patience. That is a truth for many including me. We can be conscious enough to see what's happening, but are we will to be patient while life unfolds and the larger plan revealed? We experienced this exciting little nudge when our wonderful landlords returned home from England a few years early. We are all excited that they have been able to return to the US and feel it is our message that it is now time to start the ground work for the community and center that we have been experiencing glimpses of.
A H olistic Journal Celebrating & Supporting LIFE!
Joan Emmons Ron Damico Betty Close Jacqueline Cone Publishers All inquiries call:
(207) 799-7995 Email:
info@innertapestry.org Or Visit:
www.innertapestry.org
Subscriptions $20.00/year, 6 issues Inner Tapestry can be picked up for free in over 500 locations, but to insure you don’t miss a copy, subscriptions are available.
SEND CHECK OR MONEY ORDER TO: Inner Tapestry Journal
6 Kristin Lane Raymond, ME 04071
And remember, no matter where you go, there you are. Confucius
Our warmest wishes are filled with love and light for a Happy Fall Season and Thanksgiving Holiday. Joan, Ron, Betty & Jacqueline Thanks to www.coolarchive.com, www.jewbilationscom, www.bitsela.com, and www.school.discoveryeducation.com for their graphics.
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 seventh 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. For those who need ad design, we offer a service to create a distinct way for you to present your business. 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. ÂŽ 2008.
Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 5
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We will definitely keep everyone posted as to the expansion and location of what will be ahead. We have some time, but definitely will have to find a new space. Being gifted a new blank canvas to create on is always an exciting time.
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On Finding Myself Middle Aged With No Role Model I Could Relate To Because I Am Not A Crone by Mama Donna Henes
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lthough I have been passionately devoted to the Many Splendored Goddess in her complex multiplicity for more than thirty years now, I am not a believer in the Triple Goddess paradigm. It has never resonated with me because it belies what I believe to be the true nature of nature. The Triple Goddess in her tripartite phases is widely understood to represent the complete cyclical wholeness of life. She Who is Three is likened to the moon, the tides, and the seasons, whose mutability She mirrors. And therein, lies the rub. I am sorry, but thirty years of researching, teaching, and writing about Celestially Auspicious Occasions – the cycles of the cosmos and the earthly seasons, and the multi-cultural ritual expressions that they inspire – I can state unequivocally that the moon has four quarters, not three, and that there are, as well, four seasons in the year. For millennia, the three faces of the Triple Goddess have, in fact, accurately reflected the stages of women’s lives — the developing youth, the nurturing mother and the wise old woman. She still corresponds with the real life expectancy and experience of most women in the world even today who live pretty much as they always have. The reality of their existence dictates that they grow quickly through girlhood into early and prolonged maternity. Then, if they are lucky enough to survive multiple childbirths and general poverty, they pass through menopause directly into old age.
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While certainly there is still much to learn from these models, the old tripleheader construct is no longer all-inclusive. It doesn’t include a description of my life or the lives of other contemporary women in their middle years living in modern developed countries. It does not address our issues and needs, nor does it embrace our unique and unprecedented position in society. It does not even recognize our existence. The old stereotypes simply do not apply to us. We have outgrown our tenure as Maidens and as Mothers, yet old age no longer follows immediately after menopause, which is why so many midlife women don’t see ourselves (yet) as Crones. Where is the authentic archetype for us? There are now, for the first time in history and history combined, entire multi-national generations of women for whom the Triple Goddess paradigm no longer resonates. For us – nearly 60 million climacteric women in the United States alone — the trilevel ideal is flawed. We occupy a truly unique position, poised on the brink of uncharted waters. This extended and vigorous midlife period which we are now beginning to experience is largely unaccounted for in myth and archetype for the simple reason that such longevity has never before occurred for the great masses of women as a whole. We desperately need a new body of role models, examples, and teachers to encourage us as we explore the unfamiliar terrain of our changing lives and create new and joyful ways of being in charge of our own destiny. Clearly it is time for a change of paradigm. Which is as it should be. Life is about nothing if not change, which is, after all, the greatest teaching of the cyclical Goddess. Her power and inspiration lies in Her infinite flexibility, Her adept adaptability, Her unbounded ability to always, always, always change. The Great Goddess, supreme mistress of the art of transformation will surely respond to the changes in our lives and times by enlarging the vision of Her Self to include Her fourth dimension -- and ours. The Great Goodess is, even now, beginning to expand to include us in Her archetypal embrace. In the absence of a traditional mythic example to spur me on and sustain me through my midlife changes, I perceived the need to invent one. So I formulated a fourth stage of development that would place me after the Mother and before the Crone in a newly defined continuum of Womanhood, thus providing me and other women of my generation with a recognizable role model for our middle years: The Four Fold Goddess: the Maiden, the Mother, the Queen and the Crone. This construct of the four stages of a woman’s life is a much more accurate description of the current Way of Womanhood. Her four periods of growth and transformation resonate deeply with contemporary women. And they seem so natural, somehow. They are in complete metaphoric alignment with the pervasive way that peoples have always ordered existence into Four Quarters. The Four Quarters of the Moon, the Four Seasons of the Year, the Four Solstices and Equinoxes, the Four Elements, the Four Cardinal Directions of the Earth, the Four Periods of the Day. Is this hubris? Who am I to challenge an archetype that has been so powerful for so many for so long? Well, I am in fact a proud member of the pioneering Sixties Generation, and consequently, I have a certain modest amount of experience in 6 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
rebelling against the status quo of old archetypes and striving to replace them with new, more inclusive and relevant ones. Our generation has demonstrated time and again that it is possible to create our own characters, compose our own scripts, and author the sagas of our own lives. We are our own role models. Bereft of affirming depictions of our lives, today’s women-of-a-certain-age are more than ready, willing, and perfectly capable of creating our own. The mythic model that I envision is recognizably like me, like us. Not yet old, yet no longer young, she stands in her proper place — after the Mother and before the Crone — in No Woman’s Land. She plants her flag and claims her space in this previously uncharted midlife territory. Still active and sexy, vital with the enthusiasm and energy of youth, she is tempered with the hard-earned experience and leavening attitudes of age. She has been forced to face and overcome obstacles and hard lessons including her own shadow, and in so doing, has outgrown the boundaries of her old self. Agitated with the unessential and restless for authenticity, She sheds all attachment to the opinions of others and accepts complete responsibility and control for her own care, feeding, and fulfillment. She is the Queen of Her Self, the mature monarch, the sole sovereign of Her own life and destiny. Here, finally, is an archetype that fits. The Queen paradigm promotes a new understanding of what it might mean to be a middle-aged woman today who accepts complete responsibility for and to her self, and it celebrates the physical, emotional, and spiritual rewards of doing so. Becoming a Queen is not automatic, nor is it instantaneous. As Simone de Beauvoir said, “One is not born a woman, one becomes one.” The Queen bursts forth from adversity and previous constraints, actual or imagined, to become a proficient player in the game plan of Her choice. The Queen does not invite hard times and trouble, but She chooses to use them well. Actualized, organized, efficient, self-sufficient, competent, ethical, and fair, the Queen has struggled for and earned Her authority and respect. Determined and firmly centered on Her own two feet, She dares to climb, step after step, with nascent surety into the heady realm of Her own highest majesty. Once on her throne and crowned, the Queen glows golden with confidence, competence, and grace. She is fully aroused and takes great pleasure in the feelings of freedom, elation and well-being that come from personal empowerment. This thrilling post-menopausal period of vitality, renewed energy, enhanced self-esteem, optimism, and enthusiasm comes to us in direct proportion to the intensity of our own conscious, conscientious engagement in the process and consequences of transformation. Another gift of self-enfranchisement is the potent and extremely liberating sexuality of the Queen. Shining from the inside out, Her attractiveness and attraction is rooted deeply in Her self-actualization, self-worth, and inner strength. She exudes a primal excitement, Her power palpable in her very presence. Her desire reaches the boiling point and her inhibitions melt in the heat of Her renewed passion for life. As long as I live, I will have control over my being — you find the spirit of Caesar in me. -Artemisia Gentileschi, Italian painter, 1593-1652
Donna Henes is an urban shaman, ceremonialist, speaker and the author of the award-winning amazon.com best seller, The Queen of My Self: Stepping into Sovereignty in Midlife and three other books. She publishes a monthly E-zine, “The Queen’s Chronicles,” Inspiration for women who want to enjoy the fruits of an influential, passionate, and powerful maturity. For your free subscription visit http://www.thequeenofmyself.com/.
The white light streams down to be broken up by those human prisms into all the colors of the rainbow. Charles R. Brown
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Bat Mitzvah and 70th Birthday Rite of Passage by Ina Albert So it’s done. I stand here before you, having completed my bat mitzvah. And I’m feeling so many emotions right now —
I can be free of my self-imposed need to be right; free of culturally imposed standards of having to know and having to do.
Ina Albert, author, workshop presenter, was healthcare communications and marketing professional for 35 years, and is co-author of the book “Write Your Self Well...Journal Your Self to Health.” She has published short stories, non-fiction articles in national journals and recently had a chapter on journaling included in “The Art of Grief,” an anthology of alternative therapies used by grief counseling therapists, published by Routledge Publishers. Ms. Albert lives in Whitefish, Montana with her husband, Rabbi Allen Secher.
Will there be the excitement of discovering inner resources that I didn’t know I had? Will my need to be noticed be as important? Will I find a passion that drives me and excites me in these final years? Will I be able to say, like George Bernard Shaw, “I want to be thoroughly used up when I die”? Or, on the other hand, would I be able just to be, to reflect, to be present to each moment, rather than doing all the time—to take time to examine my life experience—to look at what was valuable and what was not. And how can all this be measured? In relationships, in children and grandchildren, in my writing, in service to the community, in sage advice? What difference do I want to make? Will it even matter, and if it does, why?
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Relief at getting through the Hebrew! Feeling a sense of completion Proud and thrilled at my accomplishment Curious about the future and a new beginning Excited about having you all with me at this moment Grateful for being alive I want to talk to you about the past, the present and the future. The past – harvesting a lifetime of experiences that bring me to this day. The present – where I see myself now at my 70th Rite of Passage; and what lies ahead – my feelings and questions about the future. I have so much to celebrate and be grateful for. After all, I’ve raised two sons, become a grandmother and lived through world shattering events beginning with WWII and Hiroshima and now this latest war in Iraq. I’ve worked in politics, the arts and healthcare, enjoyed all of it and had successful and satisfying careers. I’ve found great happiness in a second marriage, and together we’ve made significant contributions to our community in Chicago and here in Montana. So my 70th carries with it a lot of history, and the joy of experiencing the fullness of life. I’m curious and excited about the years ahead with many goals to accomplish and even more to learn. I’m vital and healthy, so I can put these next years to good use. Still, over these last months my 70th birthday loomed large on the horizon. So to prepare for this day, I took a 4-day retreat with a dear friend to think about what this birthday means to me, and whether I even wanted to go through this ceremony. For several months a mantra has been going through my head every time I have trouble bending, or remembering things or feel tired. I’ve been hearing a little voice saying, “Well what do you expect? You’re going to be 70 years old!” When I hear this voice, I feel sad about the future and the possible loss of mental and physical prowess. I fear losing my independence and being a burden. As my friend said to me, when she reached 70 she found herself grieving her own death. I find myself wondering what death will be like – how it will feel. Traditionally, bat or bar mitzvah ushers celebrants out of children and into adulthood. It is a first step to being accepted in an adult world. Obviously, I am at a different stage of life. I am entering a new stage – some call it the Third Age – The Age of the Eldering. It feels just as much a process of growth as entering adulthood, but very different. I am clear that Eldering is very much a deep internal learning process. And, I understand that you don’t automatically become an Elder. It has to be earned. Eldering feels like a struggle between fear and courage, between integrity and despair. But what’s utterly clear to me is that Elderhood requires more courage and stamina, more wisdom and honesty, than any other stage of life. As I stood at my parents’ grave before moving to Montana, I realized that I had arrived at the age at which they became ill. I began to ask myself how would I write the history of my journey down this road? Would I have my father’s humor? Would I have my mother’s grace? So I’m looking down the road ahead – my last years – a summing up of my story. Sociologists tell us that we are living longer than any other generation in history – an average of 20 bonus years – two more decades. They say we are at a new frontier of human development, with new and different potentials and possibilities. This Third Age is one of going inside rather than accomplishing anything in a material sense. It is very different to explore internally rather than to produce some thing, different to simply be rather than to do, so I have no answers right now, only questions. Over the past four years, I’ve wondered what my experience of this time would be:
I was always a late bloomer. Maybe this is just another blooming that will yield the sweetest fruit yet? All I seem to have are questions without answers, but maybe that’s a good thing. When we think we have the answers, the questions die and the subject is closed. There are no more possibilities. So as long as I live in the question, there is always possibility. So what are these possibilities: Time for dealing with issues that remain unresolved. Time for harvesting years of productivity. Time for honoring accomplishments. Time for learning. Time for spiritual growth. Time for listening for what others need. Time to tell it like it is. Time for rest. Time to let myself be honored and appreciated Entering Elderhood doesn’t give me answers. Perhaps the wisdom is to learn how to ask the right questions—to search for meaning. All my life I’ve wanted to be certain, to have all the answers, to be sure of my path, to know what was ahead, to be right, to succeed. Many times I had blinders on but thought I saw everything clearly. But if I give myself permission to be in the question—that’s a kind of freedom that I have never experienced. I can be free of my self-imposed need to be right; free of culturally imposed standards of having to know and having to do. I’m finding it refreshing not having to find answers now—not having to know. But it makes me uneasy as well, because the path now is uncertain. The questions are unending and the road ahead is foggy. Sometimes specters rise through the mist. Dreadful memories of abuse, of a bad marriage, of mistakes I made raising my sons, of friends to whom I need to apologize and ask forgiveness. All the unresolved issues that I need to deal with before I can move on. A very wise man – Bill Bridges who writes about – facing life changes – said "that you must say goodbye to the past before you can move on." But it’s not that simple for me. There is a period in between letting go of my past and finding new direction. That’s where I am now as I find myself sifting through memories, looking for my truth – whatever that is for me. Only after sorting it out will I be able to make peace with the past and see a clear vision for the future. That’s when I’ll earn admission to the Council of Elders as a true Wisdom Keeper. What’s the lesson of my Bat Mitzvah? To turn to face the hard questions and search for a truth that lies beyond questions and answers. I need to experience the core of my being, and to trust that Spirit will guide me, that health will sustain me, that I will be enriched by connecting with the world around me. Then I can learn to live like a whole piece of cloth, without tears or rips, listening for Spirit’s whispered encouragement. So I’ll take Virginia Satir’s advice and “go deep inside myself and find the treasure that is my name.”
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A b o u t Fa c e by David Hyde
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ur first introduction to this world from the time that we are born is on the face. When we talk about a baby, we remark about how cute she or he is. We do not talk about their toes or their fannies; our perception of that young being is all based on their face, their countenance. Is it little wonder then, that as we go from birth to adolescence to adulthood, we make immediate judgments about someone based on their face and their appearance? They are beautiful, ugly, attractive or unattractive and therefore someone with whom we choose to associate or not. We make immediate value judgments and decisions about a person’s likeability as friends, peers, companions, competitors, etc., because of what we perceive in their face. Our friendships and relationships are often determined by something as simple and yet as powerful as the facial presentation of a potential friend or lover. We are conditioned from any early age to make quick decisions about someone when we meet them for the first time. If that new person smiles or does not smile, has “bad” teeth or bad hair (or maybe no hair…), we have in the space of 30 seconds or 3 minutes made a series of decisions determining whether or not we want to associate with that person. The perception of our friends and how they look, defining our worth is as operative and powerful as it was 50 years ago. So imagine meeting someone, for the first time, who is wearing a plexi-glass mask, form fitting much like the old style hockey goalie masks. You know that you are meeting someone who was injured, but not the extent or location of that injury. I have always believed that I was “conditioned” to being around someone with a facial disfigurement, given my father’s injury. At the young age of 25 years old, my father was riding in a Ford convertible that overturned and trapped him beneath the rolling car. It was late at night in a rural area in the 1930’s where the opportunities for fast rescue and recovery were not possible. His scalp and left ear were left on the pavement, and his recovery was complicated by infection and the limits of medical knowledge and skill. Needless to say, his life was forever changed as he lived with a toupee to cover his scars and without his left ear. I spent twenty-six years of my life, walking in the woods with him, and having him guide me through my academic and social activities. It was a challenging experience as a young person to witness and listen to the comments and reactions of “friends” and other parents, upon seeing or meeting my dad. The discomfort and distance created because of this disfigurement were palpable. When Chris Mance walked through the door of Coffee by Design, the memories and conditioning of my past flooded into the room with him. Chris had been a senior at Ohio University and an outdoor recreation major. In May of 2006, he was on a solo for a survival training class. Around 5:00 AM on his second solo day, he awoke and started a small wood fire to cook his breakfast. As he knelt down to blow on the fire, he had an epileptic seizure and fell face first into the fire. The speculation is that he was in the fire for 4-5 minutes during which time the batteries in his head lamp exploded, causing further burns. Chris eventually regained consciousness and immediately started walking toward where one of his classmates, also on a solo, was camping. He knew that he was hurt, but was in shock and unaware of the extent of his injuries. His friend used his cell phone to call 911 and Chris was transported to a hospital in Columbus, and later to The Shriner’s Hospital in Boston. He had sustained burns over 11% of his body, the majority of which were on his face and some on his hands and forearms. The Shriner’s is primarily a children’s hospital and Chris was instantly the oldest kid there. Their doctors and nurses help young people from all over the world and support burn victims physically and emotionally. Chris was put into an induced coma to help his recovery during the initial weeks after the injury. Six weeks after his arrival, when his swelling had diminished, the surgeons started the long and careful process of grafting and repairing his face. This delicate process needs to be done in stages to maximize acceptance of the new skin and to minimize the infection. In the fire, Chris lost his eyelids, lips, eyebrows and nose. Tissue that has suffered burns is very delicate and very sensitive to touch, to heat and even to certain chemicals in the air. The physical healing process takes time and repairs have to be done in many stages. In July of 2006, Chris was able to leave the hospital and to return home for the first time in many months. The time to heal and the schedule of surgeries over the next four months meant little time outside and very limited activity. During one of his 8 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
checkups, his mother, Martha, read a Down East Magazine article, featuring Two Roads Maine. Two Roads Maine is dedicated to supporting those in transition by offering opportunities for personal renewal through the healing power of solitude, nature, and community. It offers a variety of activities such as kayaking, canoeing and meditation as well as time spent in the natural world in community. As one of the steps to recover his life, Chris wanted to complete his course requirements to graduate and to do an internship. Since his love of the outdoors was undiminished by his accident, the article about Two Roads was a very appealing option. He called to see if we needed an intern, which lead to our meeting in Portland. I had never thought to ask about the nature or extent of his injury before we met. What seemed important was to determine whether this individual would work effectively with a wide range of individuals who were experiencing some sort of major life transition. The young man who walked through the coffee shop door answered those questions just by that simple act. What was remarkable to me during the course of that two hour meeting was the realization, after fifteen minutes, that I was having a conversation with a young man clearly passionate about the outdoors. We spoke about his injuries and his recovery, but also about his adventures in the past as well as those that he expected in the days ahead. Significantly, this was not a conversation about how to include someone with an obvious facial disfigurement in small groups, in remote settings. ...Rather, we were discussing what his responsibilities might be and how soon he could join us. What I experienced in that “face to face” interaction was to be repeated many times over the next seven months in a variety of settings. If I had closed my eyes and just listened to the words, I would not have known that Chris had been injured. I never heard fear, anger, resentment or an unwillingness to engage. I heard this Phoenix rising out of his ashes. (It was not about the face. It was about the human spirit and the will to move on and return to as much normalcy as possible). Consequently, I decided to make Chris a part of our organization and in March of 2007. It began with a van ride down to Cumberland Island in southeast Georgia. That journey took us 1400 miles through gas stations, grocery stores, hotels, campgrounds, and restaurants. Chris never missed a beat, never remained hidden in the van when we went inside, and he matched my humor quickly and easily. He was the object of everyone’s immediate attention when we walked into a restaurant, but he was more interested in the food and what he could force into his new mouth than that the others around him might be staring, wondering or judging him. He knew what was happening; he knew that people were watching him and commenting but he moved with grace undeterred. Part of the Two Roads experience is what we refer to as “council” time during which each person shares their “story.” This can be a very personal and vulnerable time and sometimes initially intimidating. Chris’ first experience with this process was on Cumberland Island. He shared about his traumatic experience with the others, and over the course of the next five days, Chris immersed himself in the setting, putting his tent in amongst the palmettos. He was the last to crawl into his tent at night and often the last to rouse the next morning. He was ”home,” and loving being back in the natural world that was so comfortable for him, so familiar. You could hear it in his voice and see it in his face. Yet the council process was easily his biggest challenge. “Mirrors were for other people and not for him” was his contribution that day. Such a revealing comment in its simplicity. The work necessary to accept his current situation was clearly in front of him. Would he have the courage to change, to do an "about face" on that position? My brother’s daughter, Anna, who is handicapped, had never met Chris before joining us in Georgia. Anna has always had an amazing gift for disarming new people and for creating friendships with her limited vocabulary and unconditional love. She has always had a fondness for noses and it is a word that she can articulate. Naturally when she greeted Chris for the first time, he was given the “nose routine.” It was the beginning of a warm and wonderful relationship between them. Anna has no facades and a passion for giving hugs. Chris soon became one of her favorite targets for hugs and her special wugee-wugee kisses. Maybe it was those wugee-wugee kisses or those constant hugs, but Chris was on
9 his way. He was out in the territory that was a salve for his soul and it showed. He never crawled out of his tent any earlier but the joy and delight he felt in being in nature was as powerful and evocative as the sunrise over the Atlantic. His smile, his willingness to pitch in, his easy conversation with the group were obvious signs. One of the most curious sights was to see who took over the responsibility for starting the bonfire at night! Wouldn’t you expect that process to bring back strong and frightening images of the flame, the intensity of the heat, the painful surgeries? And yet this did not stop Chris. From Cumberland Island to a meditation program with Colby students to paddling on Big Wood Pond and Muscongus Bay, Chris never wavered from engagement and participation. His words in council did shift however. Interspersed between the different programs were more surgery and more skin graphs, some of which had trouble taking hold. His face was being surgically rebuilt with the creation of lips and eyebrows. That external facial landscape was changing, transforming, as was his inner landscape. The words “I can’t look at my face in the mirror” were like that first rumble of distant thunder. You recognize the sound and know that change is in the air. The courage to utter those eight words in a mixed group of men and women, many his own age, was not to be forgotten nor was it lost on anyone. In October, Chris started the last of his major surgeries: the reconstruction of his nose. A piece of flesh from his arm was sewn to his face to establish a vascular network and to form the basis for his new nose. For four weeks, he had his arm attached to his face while the blood flow was established. In November, they detached his arm from his face and in December they took cartilage from his ribs to create the ridge of his nose. Sudden unexpected shifts in our lives are never very palatable or easily embraced, especially when they impact our presentation to the world. This was the case for my father. I do not know who Chris was prior to his accident and never will. I do know he is someone whose life is forever changed by his experience, and whom I have had the opportunity to literally and metaphorically witness make that change with determination, courage, and perseverance. When deep despair and depression legitimately could have been his constant companions, Chris would not accept or even entertain their offer. Philip Simmons wrote in his book, Learning to Fall: “At one time or another, each of us confronts an experience so powerful, bewildering, joyous or terrifying that all of our efforts to see it as a 'problem' are futile. Each of us is brought to the cliff ’s edge. At such moments we can either back away in bitterness or confusion, or leap forward into mystery.” From our first meeting in Portland, it was very clear to me that the extent and location of his injuries had all the impetus to drive Chris out of the public’s eye into some indefinite retreat, a withdrawal from life. This sort of “retreat” was not in his vocabulary. He stood at the edge of the abyss, but looked forward with courage and determination, not retreating or looking through the rearview mirror. For me, and ultimately for Chris, this was his “about face” moment.
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In appreciation of Chris Mance and his journey and gratitude for sharing it with me and so many others, David Hyde is the Executive Director of Two Roads Maine.
www.tworoadsmaine.org
Photo courtesy of Two Roads Maine.
Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 9
10
ON THE COVER
Whole by Elizabeth Derecktor There is a very interesting story to our cover art work. When people say that "what is to happen does," from my perspective it does. I had chosen a wonderful photograph for this issue of the journal, taken by a photographer who is involved in the process of educating people about wildlife. When I approached the studio that handles his work I was quoted a price of $816 for a one time use. This has never happened before, and it caught me a bit off balance. I truly appreciate all who have come before and all who will follow and choose to support the journal as well as the community by allowing us to publish their work and share themselves with us. Scene two, I left for a class in Amesbury, MA at The Way To Balance. While there I saw a basket filled with artistic scarfs, each unique and beautifully designed along with postcards showing more of her designs. This is how I became aware of Elizabeth (Lizzy) Derecktor, from East Boothbay, Maine in Massachusetts.
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I was drawn to many of the pictures on the postcard, then I realized that they were actual photos of her clothing. As I read further, I realized that Lizzy had done the artwork for the displayed clothing. I was impressed. What I didn't realize is that she is the one who actually paints the silk fabric. This was to be my cover art! Can you imagine, wearable art. These colorful garments have images of spirit, power animals, totems, religious symbols, shamanic visions, dream images, angels and nature with beautiful backgrounds. These items can be used for weddings, rituals, vision quests, birthdays or any place you would want to express yourself. The process starts with 100% Chinese silk, white yardage which is stretched onto a frame. The images are drawn with a cold water wax solution and then Lizzy hand paints with brushes all the colors onto the silk. Images are pre-drawn on the fabric so when they are cut the shapes are already there. Lizzy "tunes in" ahead of time and will do meditations to "receive" the images involved, the layout and color stories. Often those color stories will evolve as she is painting. She uses prayer to invoke empowering energies while she works, with the focus that whomever is to wear the garment finds peace, love, joy, fulfullment of their soul's journey and full expression of their inner radiance. From Lizzy: "I believe the creative spirit in each of us is always seeking expression. When we give ourselves permission to breathe, move, create, play and adorn ourselves lovingly we allow this magic to happen. We become vehicles for radiance. Our true essence can be revealed and in this revelation we discover healing. It is from this place that I create Spiritwear. Each piece is hand painted with love. I make prayers of intention with every brushstroke to bring the wearer a full, deep connection with their inner spiritual essence. I pray that those who wear these garments find the level of peace, wholeness and radiance from within that is our birthright." Lizzy first learned the art of surface design at California College of Arts and Crafts in Oakland, CA in 1986. She was on leave from Brown University and found this form of art to be her chosen expression. Designing clothes and "playing with fabric" was something that Lizzy had done since childhood so this was a natural progression for her. Studying sculpture at Rhode Island School of Design has allowed this fabric designing to take form as sculpture using the body as a vehicle of art that moves in space, with the movements of the wearer. Both Lizzy's spiritual life and musical career as a percussionist became part of the Spiritwear creation journey. Through the shamanic healing dance practice of Gabrielle Roth, whom she studied with for her own healing and spiritual evolution, Spiritwear was born as Roth's personal line of dance wear. They worked together for ten years selling dance wear to people all over the world. The all women African persussion ensemble, Inanna, Sister's in Rhythm, one of my all time personal favorites, (if you ever get the chance to see them 10 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
you won't be disappointed), wears Lizzy's work as their primary costume since their inception. This work is Lizzy's love. She has found deep and profound experiences for herself and her clients that she feels blessed to be creating for. This lovely artwork is available in many forms, dresses, skirts, tops, capes, scarves, coats, vests, wall hangings and prints. Her new site is still under construction but you can access everything that you will need through her old website www.spiritwear.ws. There is a toggle button on her website "How To Order." There are specific steps to ordering a piece from Lizzy, but I was most impressed with the first step. 1. Place you hand on your heart and thank yourself for feeding your soul. 2. Sit quietly, breathe deeply, close your eyes and ask for images of what you need most to discover and celebrate your innate radiance and wholeness. Allow colors, images and she lists the types from nature plants, animals to goddesses and creator. 3. Any combination of images can be used and designs on the website as well, asking to fill in an order form on the site or to call her at 207-633-4223. 4. Asking to know how you were referred so that credit can be given. When I called Lizzy asking if she would be interested in having her work placed on the cover for this issue, I was met with a resounding Yes, I have Inner Tapestry on my list to write to, asking if you would be interested in my work. Lizzy was met with a resounding Yes from me as well. I hope that you take the time to visit this wonderful website www.spiritwear.ws to see close-up more of the beautiful work that Lizzy creates. Thank you Lizzy, for sharing your work and yourself. I have enjoyed our time together for this issue and truly appreciate how you bring yourself into all that you do in support of the community. Through this I have found another expression of "being yourself" is "daring to live your dream." Photos are courtesy of Leigh Kelly-Monroe of Image Catcher.
Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep. Scott Adams
11
Making Room For Change
Article Submission Deadline for December/January "Prayers of Peace" is
October 25th
by Kelly Dakin
hen you clean your house you are pushing things around from one place to another. Clothes go from floor or hamper, to washer, to dryer, to closet, and back to floor or hamper. You are using a portion of your time and energy, intending to make a difference, but are you really changing anything? Intentions are a powerful tool in creating change, but sometimes we must look at what we are actually doing with our intent.
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We recycle what we already have acquired and we repeat what we know until we are willing to step out and make a change in our patterns of thinking or behaving. This does not mean that we need to change our intent, but it requires us to make a shift in our energy, and where we place it in our lives. What can we do to make a difference and change the time and energy that we expend recycling what we have and know? Making a difference would be giving the clothes away to someone who needs them. Giving away what you have acquired or sharing what you already know is a way to spread the light. Kindness expands our vision and allows more room for acceptance and change.
The Power of Love by Rochelle Sparrow
T
he Beijing Olympic ceremony opened with a bang of cascading fireworks shining light in the night for all nations of all people to witness. It was a testimonial to our ability to come together. We can see right in front of us on television faces of different colors, nations with strong, century-old political differences putting down their axes to grind and celebrating their likenesses rather than their differences. What happens is we forget the things that make us united in our humanity and hold onto those things that separate us from other people and the very thing we want most? What happens inside of us, that we strive to minimize our need for love? After all, when I go to the dog park, all of the dogs running around don’t seem to have a problem with connection. Sure, sometimes they get territorial and there is a growl here or there, but for the most part, the morning passes without incident. Most often, there is dog laughter in the form of high-pitched yelping and a "catch me if you can" body language. I wonder what holds people back from making friends so easily and naturally. Not that I would want to be so personal with the use of my nose, but let’s face it. There can be forces that exist within each of us that notices our dissimilarity much more so than the dogs playing in the grass.
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How can this be applied to your everyday life? Ask yourself what you are doing to clutter up your life, your mind, your family or your relationships. It takes a lot of time and energy to sort out and organize all of the materialistic possessions, unhealthy ideas, the emotions associated with them, unneeded habits that were once used to sooth or protect us. Sometimes the people in our lives have run their course. They have provided for us the lessons and experiences that they are here to give us, and then it is time to move on. Hanging on to these things can sometimes only cause more pain and confusion. We need to start from within ourselves. We need to learn about ourselves and who we are. We need to love and accept ourselves exactly as we are so we can love and accept others for exactly as they are. Doing this raises our vibration. We become attractors of light, good and change. We open doors and windows for ourselves and others, allowing in the light, making room for change. Kelly Dakin, Reiki Level II Practioner, lives in Augusta, Maine. You can visit her at www. myspace.com/reikiroom My daughter is growing up. She made the huge transition to middle school. She is a “big kid” with her own sense of style. She loves the Jonas Brothers and now wears my husband’s ties around her neck with a vest. She dresses differently from other kids and has her own style. However, in her designed fashion attire, she has many friends and sees herself as the same despite her efforts to be unique. One day she was saying, “Mommy we all have problems. Joe has a hard time spelling, Shannon has problems with her sister, and Kerry talks too much. We all have something we have to learn about.” She is ten years old. Maybe it is our problems that make us the same, the things we can acknowledge and share with other people that brings us together rather than apart. Maybe somewhere deep inside we have learned through our problems that we need to hide who we are instead of sharing who we are when we most need to. Maybe it is our judgment of our problems that force us away from each other because we think we are different. I see a Jungian analyst. I have told her things that I kept hidden away from people for forty-two years. In my telling the potency of my embarrassment and shame lifts away from me and I became human again. In my humanity, I share my childhood stories with other people. But most importantly, through my sharing people feel free to expose their stories. Their stories are freed within the light of acceptance, within the light of love. We forget about the sharing. We forget about the necessity of having a witness present through the power of love to see our truth. We forget that is our unity of being human there really is no difference at all. Rochelle Sparrow is a psychic trance channel who offers individual and group sessions for your empowerment. She now offers monthly day long workshops on psychic development. She is the featured trance channel for Shirley Maclaine.com and is a frequent guest on radio and television. Connect with her at www.rochellesparrow.com, 602.430.6447 Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 11
12
e nligh te n u p
Zin Fishin' by Aaron Hoopes & Rita Lang
Zin the Wandering Sage is a character I’ve created to embody the teachings of the great masters of the past. His philosophy is simple, direct and insightful. I use him to give a voice to the knowledge and wisdom that we are in danger of forgetting as we become more and more caught up in the distractions of our busy world. – Aaron Hoopes
Zin Fishin’ One hot summer day Zin sat fishing on a large rock at the edge of Lake Tanko. He didn’t seem to really be trying to fish. Just every so often he would cast his line into the clear azure water. Then, later, he would slowly reel in and cast out again. A large number of rather large fish could be seen swimming lazily through the water around the hook, but they seemed to have about as much interest in the bait as Zin did in catching them.
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After a short while Taro finally gave up and asked the sage, “How can you sit there so calmly and meditate? As soon as I try to sit quietly all these thoughts start running through my head." “First, you must stop trying,” Zin replied. “So what am I supposed to do?” “The most effective technique to deal with anything is to use the breath. If you learn to breathe properly, everything else will fall into place.” “Breathe?” Taro questioned. “Breathing is a fundamental action of the physical body. However, most people don’t pay attention to it and simply allow their body to breathe while they go about doing everything else. The problem is that when we breathe unconsciously it is only subsistence breathing – just enough to keep the body functioning at a minimum level. But, if we give conscious thought to our breathing, it can benefit us in many ways.” Taro thought about this for a moment. “Like when you are training up on the mountain, you often just stand and breathe.” “Yes, gathering energy and circulating it through my body.” Zin replied. Aaron Hoopes is an author, instructor and the founder of Zen Yoga. His newest book Breathe Smart Taro spent the next hour concentrating on his breathing as he sat on the big rock. 2nd Edition is available now. Rita Lang is a licensed massage therapist and the Program Director of It actually seemed to work. Whenever his thoughts threatened to take over, he would Zen Yoga. More information is available at www.artofzenyoga.com. return to his breathing and find that the thoughts would fade away. Later, feeling refreshed, he approached Zin again.
Artwork courtsey of Aya Itagaki
Young Taro sat on a nearby rock. He had observed the sage long enough to know that Zin was actually practicing a form of meditation. On this day Taro had decided that today was the day he was going to try to learn how to meditate. Settling himself on the rock he turned his attention inwards and tried to stop the flow of thoughts from his mind. No sooner had he begun when a thousand thoughts appeared in his mind, all trying to get his attention. He fidgeted and swatted at an annoying fly that had decided to torment him. He repositioned himself again and again in a vain attempt to clear his mind. Just as the boy seemed about to give up on the struggle, Zin smiled and said, “Look at the fish swimming about. They are really enjoying themselves.” “You are not a fish,” replied Taro grumpily, “So you can’t truly know that they are enjoying themselves.” “You are not me,” said Zin. “So how do you know that I do not know that the fish are enjoying themselves?” “Humph!” Taro exclaimed in frustration.
We all wear masks, and the time comes when we cannot remove them without removing some of our own skin. André Berthiaume, Contretemps 12 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
13
G R A T I T U D E G R A C E
Unwind... Body & Mind 269 Church St. (Rte 85), Hebron, CT
Self Awakening & Healing Groups
with Ron and Joan
Tuesdays 6:00pm - 8:00pm ~ $30 October 7th & 21st November 4th & 18th December 2nd & 23rd FMI: Call Ron and Joan at 860-655-5500 or visit: www.ronandjoan.com Space is limited so call first and come as often as you choose!
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T H A N K S G I V I N G
May You Harvest The Joy and Love That Is Yours For Connecticut Advertising Call Inner Tapestry at 207-799-7995 or email info@innertapestry.org Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 13
14
lov ing e ar th
Wel co me to
G aian Voices
E ar t h S p i r i t, E a r th Ac ti o n, Ear t h Stor ies by Pat Foley e recently talked with Susan Meeker-Lowry, the founder and editor of a six-year-old newsletter entitled Gaian Voices – Earth Spirit, Earth Action, Earth Stories. Susan is also the author of Economics as if the Earth Really Mattered and Invested in the Common Good. Both books are about ecologically sustainable community based economics. Gaian Voices presents articles, stories and information from an earth-centered perspective, offering us a way of looking at our world in which we are all en-spirited beings participating in the dance of life in relationship with each other. To date Gaian Voices has not addressed economics, but with the next issue, this will change. Meeker-Lowry speaks for the earth, for Gaia, and for a future that could be. supportive of all life with a passionate voice. We live in challenging times; soon, many of us believe, to become more challenging. We who love the earth sometimes feel torn between despair for the future and excitement for what our future could be if we were to wake up and take actions for change soon enough to make a difference. We asked Meeker-Lowry to share some of her thoughts on Gaian and economic issues close to her heart.
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Economics as if the Earth really mattered
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Susan: It was obvious to me that the economy as we know it, business as usual, was killing the earth and the solution was to look at the earth for answers. This was years ago before there was a body of knowledge called ecological economics that you could study in school. At that point it was really far out stuff. We had an institute for Gaian economics. We tried to put into practice the values we believed would be part of creating a Gaian economy, an economy that believed the earth really mattered. I have been publishing Gaian Voices for six years and for six years I have avoided the subject of economics. Now it seems time to address it again. Economics is really coming to the forefront for the general public because of gas prices. Money is tight and people are concerned. It’s the economy again. And it seems to me that people are just trying to solve our problems by doing the old way harder. One of the reasons I started Gaian Voices was because I wanted to put a different perspective out there for people to look at; what the human relationship with nature is, so that people could get a sense there is another way of doing things. It’s not just doing things, it’s a perspective. It’s how we wake up in the morning and we see the earth, and we see our relationship with the earth. Thomas Berry says we need to reinvent the humans at the species level. To me that means we are one species here. We are not the penultimate thing, we are not the lowest thing, we are part of the circle. Life’s a circle, it’s not a hierarchy. Now, how do we put that into practice? How do we use that in our daily lives? Not just in our households, how do we take that out into our communities? How do we take it to the state and whatever levels we need to take it to in order to transform the structures that we live under and do business under? One of the things I would like to move through, for my own self, but also because I think we need to as a culture, is how can we take those small things that we do, in our homes, in our communities like recycling on a small scale, land trusts, workroom businesses, green businesses, how can we take those things and make them the mainstay as opposed to the Exxons of the world? Because that’s what needs to happen. For the upcoming issue of the newsletter I’m going to talk to Hazel Henderson, whom I’ve known for many years. She is a futurist and also an economist. She is a very interesting woman. What I want to talk to her about is the interface between the global economy and the local economy. She talks about that in her latest book Ethical Markets. What I’m interested in hearing her talk about is how small local, regional things can ultimately change the global picture that is so oppressive. Henderson believes this can happen. How can this be done?
IT: Do you have any ideas? Susan: I used to. When I first started doing this work I was very optimistic. I traveled around the country, I gave workshops, I spoke at conferences, I would hand out information on community currencies, community land trusts. I could see the seeds we planted sprouting and growing because there was connection between those of us who were doing these things. We physically kept in touch through conferences. We kept in touch through phone calls. Logically you’d think now, because there are more people aware than there were, because the whole idea of community banking and women owned banks, and workerowned businesses and cooperatives has grown since then, things would be improved. But now there seems to be less connection between projects. It didn’t used to be that way. There was communication and information sharing, networking that happened. IT: And you’re not thinking that e-mail is in some way filling this gap? Susan: I don’t think so because in order for things to happen in the real world, people have to meet in the real world. You have to meet face to face. I’m not saying that people should start flying all over the world. One of the things that David Haenke said, David was one of the main movers and shakers in the bioregional movement back in the 80’s, was that a bioregionalist was a person who traveled all over telling people to stay home. And he’s right! Now we’re all staying home and that’s great, but in the context of that there doesn’t seem to be a whole lot of generation of new ideas and visions of things happening. I don’t know if I’m not a part of it or that’s the way it really is, but it seems to me that in part that’s the way it is. There’s lack of connection. In order for people to pay attention, information needs to come from a “credible” source. Then they begin to pay attention and think “Hmm, maybe something is going on, maybe we do need to change.” There is a bright side to rising fuel costs. It’s getting people to drive less (and thereby pollute less) and to pay attention to energy efficiency, to really look at what’s happening. Except there are people out there who say we have to drill, drill, drill and we have to build more refineries so we can keep on pumping the oil out of the ground. To my mind that’s not the solution. That’s just putting off the inevitable, plus fossil fuels are contributing in a major way to the climate change. It only makes sense to find solutions to the problem that aren’t going to make that problem worse. IT: What are you doing in your individual life about the issue of living in a way that is sustainable? Susan: There are times when I think what we each do is really important, gardening, recycling... I think the importance of those things is that when we engage in gardening and some kind of relationship with the plant kingdom for example, that changes us. Then we are changed people talking to everybody we come in contact with.
We need to work with the earth, we need to come to the earth with love in our hearts.
The earth will give that love back and we will feel it. When we feel it, it changes us.
14 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
Continued on page 47
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m od ern sham an ic l i v i n g
The Matter of Masks by Evelyn Rysdyk
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The “sorcerer” of Les Trois Freres. Painted about 15,000 years ago.
that a “mere mortal” could be threatened or even annihilated by such an act was probably encouraged by those that strove to keep the power and its control for themselves. Origins of those tales of humans being taken away by fierce spirits, never to be seen or heard from again, undoubtedly arise at the same time for a similar purpose. But the older way of perceiving the world, nature and the spirits seems to always leak through. Even when overlaid with later Christian demonization, the power of the people/shaman’s relationship with the ancient spirits of nature tries to reveal itself. In her book, Shaman: the Wounded Healer, Joan Halifax writes: “To the heavens, to the well at the end of the world, to the depths of the Underworld, to the bottoms of spirit-filled lakes and seas, around the earth, to the moon and sun, to distant stars and back again does the shaman-bird travel. All the cosmos is accessible when the art of transformation has been mastered.” Using this context, let’s look at the phenomenon of the Wild Hunt as related in Mediaeval folklore. The tale is of a group of fierce beings flying through the sky. These characters are in search of something. Sometimes the tales say they swarm across the sky to gather the spirits of the dead and take them to the other world . Other times it is said the Wild Hunt threatens the living. While some traditions suggest that the one leading the hunt is a male figure, the people in alpine Germany believed that the Wild Hunt was lead by the goddess, Perchta or Berchta. Her name means “The Shining One.” (The words peraht, berht and brecht mean bright, light and/or white.) She is "The Lady of the Beasts" and was a guardian of the animals and nature in ancient Germanic hunting cultures. She is like her counterpart, Frau Holda the supernatural matron of spinning, childbirth and domestic animals, who is associated with the dark time of the year, witches and the Wild Hunt. Her name is related to Scandinavian beings known as the Huldra—faerie women with an animal tail who lives
Continued on page 46
Celtic deities such as Herne/Cerunnos have their origins in that earlier image, but with a difference. By the time of the Iron Age, the Indo-European influence that brought “gods” to Europe, shifted spirit transformation out of the hands of human beings and solely into the domain of the divine. With gods came priests and the potency of the sacred energy was harder to access for the “common” person. One had to go through an intermediary person in the form of druid/ priest or high person to speak with the “gods.” This distancing from the divine became the societal norm. This image from the Gudesrup cauldron is an excellent example of a Cernunnos figure.
There were, however other times when one could access the wisdom directly. These rituals were proported to be terrible and dangerous. I suspect that the idea
Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 15
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ecoming more of our exquisite self is one of the most important quests in our human existence, however on that road there are times when we merge our path with “another” to make the journey more splendid. Our interweaving with other beings teaches us more about ourselves. It’s rather like looking into a multitude of mirrors to be able to glimpse the entirety of our Self. Loving a partner is certainly one such merger. We learn much about our strengths and our foibles in relationship! Consciously taking on a persona for the purpose of reverence or even revelry may be another way to learn. There is something liberating and somewhat unnerving about assuming another face for a time. Often in donning a mask, we reveal something inside of us that was hidden not only from others, but from ourselves. Many of us celebrate Halloween with a masquerade. This familiar custom has its origins hundreds, even thousands of years ago. The roots of our Autumnal spooky fun, date back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain Night, or “Oiche Samhain,” a celebration of the dead as well as harvest and renewal. To honor the spirits and keep the light “alive” during this time, the Celtic priests or Druids built huge sacred bonfires, where the people gathered to burn crops and animals as sacrifices to their deities. During this celebration, the Celts wore costumes, typically consisting of animal heads and skins, and attempted to tell each other’s fortunes. According to the Online Etymological Dictionary, (www.etymonline.com) the word “mask” has several possible origins. When the more recent Middle Ages language layers are pealed away, the oldest reference is to the earlier pre Indo-European language roots which refer to the action “to darken” or the word for “witch.” We can certainly see a correlation to the Halloween time, but the wearing of masks is not a tradition limited to this time of year. For many centuries, people have donned masks as a part of working with the spirit world. It is thought that the earliest use of masks was in connection with hunting. Apparently, disguise masks were used in the early Stone Age in stalking prey. However, unlike a contemporary hunter’s camouflage clothing which simulates the environment, the Stone Age hunter sought to blend in by looking like what he was pursuing. This would entail not only assuming the animal disguise, but behaving like the animal as well. This action of becoming the prey coupled with the spirit already in the animal mask would, in shamanic
terms, empower the disguise. In effect, it would make the mask “alive.” The mask would then not simply represent the animal, but become it and transfer that “becoming” to its wearer. Indeed, there are different reasons for wearing a shamanic mask. Firstly, masks affect a transformation into another being. The power of this is two fold. Not only are the observers being signaled that someone or something else has made their presence known, the wearer him or herself is assisted into the transformative trance by the “living” object. In essence, the shaman becomes possessed by the spirit that the mask both represents and embodies. While entranced, the shaman can bring hidden wisdom from the spirit world into ordinary reality. This idea of blurring the worlds and merging of two or more beings is also a typical theme of both shamanism and the early mythic traditions of European tribes. When characterized by a transmogrification of humans to animals and/or animals to humans it is referred to as zoomorphism. Finding traces of its existence strengthens the evidence that early Indo-European tribes practiced shamanism, however these practices must certainly go even further into prehistory. The shaman figure Paleolithic people painted on the walls of the cave at Trois Freres is depicted as being caught somewhere in the middle of a transformation— neither completely one being or another. I believe this zoomorphic representation is meant to convey the fact that something profoundly powerful is occurring. That is, the transformation of a human into another being/ spirit. These images catch the shaman “in the act.”
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Now Is The Time by Peter Calhoun
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shaman perceives the world around him through one’s beingness rather than through the mind. When you perceive the world in this way, you enter a very magical place and your life very quickly becomes miraculous. It is a lost art; an art that I am trying to reintroduce to people. We all have a natural connection to the Earth. What you may not know is that each of us has an energetic umbilical cord extending from our spine into the Earth connecting us to it. I have seen this cord many times in various altered states. People feel separated from Earth and nature because this cord has been damaged by belief systems and the consensus reality of our culture. We have learned since childhood that the world is something separate from us, a cold mechanistic phenomenon of nature, when in reality it is a very magical place, the manifestation of a divine being that is responsible for all that we have – what we call the Earth Spirit. When one reconnects with Earth Spirit, the first thing that one experiences is a growing elation and eventually ecstatic joy. I believe that a lot of the lostness and loneliness in our species has nothing to do with inhumanities, wars, or sickness. It has to do with this lost connection.
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When I was a priest in the church, I began to have visions. In these visions I was shown we have been poor caregivers of our earth. On our present course I was shown that in the future there would be an environmental collapse in the form of earthquakes, tidal waves, flooding, and storms beyond anything we have known. I was also shown it was possible to reverse this future, if we could reconnect with the earth. The future we experienced could instead be one of bliss, a utopia. However, it seemed unlikely the group mind would choose that. Another possible future included one in which we took a leap to a new level and war became obsolete. The consumer culture had crumbled and we had a much more equitable way of distributing wealth and property. There was no longer suffering. This is possible! This is the time in which we can make a shift. It is an interesting phenomenon: at a time when the Earth is going into a destabilization, that is the time when a very little effort on the part of a small minority can turn things around. In times of great stability it takes great effort by many people to make a shift; but in a destabilization process like today, groups of people coming together for prayer and sacred ceremonies can bring about a profound paradigm shift. While we are in possibly the most dangerous time in the history of humanity, we are also in a time in which there is the greatest opportunity to make an upward leap to turn the world beyond anything we could conceive. This would not be a slow process, but would happen almost overnight. This is the time to act. We have a window of opportunity that is unlike any other. This is the time to seize the moment. Some might see an eventual environmental collapse as punishment. But our Creator does not punish. It is we who punish. Should these things happen, it would be the choice of our group mind. Religious fundamentalists will blame it on God’s punishment, will blame it on anyone other than themselves, and more secular people for the most part blame it on Nature. Neither will be true. Rather the truth will be we chose to live as a law unto ourselves, outside the natural laws of creation.
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When one lives outside the natural laws of creation there is consequence. There is not punishment but consequence. When we put our finger on a hot stove we get burned. That is consequence not punishment. Earth has been giving us messages saying enough is enough. We need to listen. We need to start living within the laws of nature. We need to heal. But human beings have to heal themselves before the earth can heal. Many human beings are unconsciously making war with the earth. When motivated by greed and self serving materialism, people truly are making war with earth whether they perceive it as that or not. It is a war we cannot possibly win; a war where everybody loses. But we can stop the war by reconnecting with the earth. And when we do, we find a power that we somehow previously lost. This is what I teach people to do. I teach how to awaken these powers and how to heal and protect our Earth. I teach that the way we perceive the world is the way we experience it. If we perceive the world as a cold and mechanistic phenomena of nature, that’s what we get. If we see the world as a magical, wondrous place, then that is what we experience – and one’s life is truly transformed. It means letting go of old belief systems of our consensus reality culture. We are not poor, wretched beings who committed some kind of thing called original sin. We are divine, magical beings. And that magic awakens in us simply as we change our belief systems and begin to understand who we truly are and what this world is.
Peter Calhoun is a shaman, healer, teacher, and author of Soul on Fire published by Hay House. ISBN: 9781401917487. His book accounts his awakening to miraculous paranormal powers known as the Siddhis in Vedic philosophies and his magical experiences with the Earth elements. He performs workshops all over North America teaching others to awaken to their original spiritual powers and reconnect to Mother Earth. To learn more about Peter Calhoun or the book, please visit www.petercalhoun.com. Peter will be at Leapin’ Lizards, Freeport, ME, November 7th 6:30pm – 9:00pm, Signs and Synchronicity and November 8th 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Walking Between the Worlds.
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HerbologyToday Part Three
by Christopher J. Bashaw, RN
What constitutes herbal certification? In the United States, there is currently no national or state system of licensing or certification for herbalists. Many schools, including the KHY Certification Program that I currently teach, offer a certificate to document the student’s completion of an herbal program in accordance to the standards that particular group has established. These certificates are useful when applying to professional groups such as The American Herbalist Guild. So that means, unless you are knowledgeable of the practitioner you seek, skill and experience is not always verified by certification alone. If I go to four different herbologists, one using Ayurvedic Medicine, one using Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM, one using a Western Herbal Approach, and one using the KHY (Kosho Hoho Yooga) approach, I most likely would see four separate yet effective treatments.
Traditional Chinese Medicine: Originating in China more than 5,000 years ago TCM includes acupuncture and acupressure, qigong exercises, and use of Chinese herbs. Their remedies are governed by a complexity of rules for diagnosis, which are anticipated to cure energetic imbalances within the body based off of the concepts of duality or yin and yang. Chinese herbs may also include minerals and animal products like hide or bone as a part of their treatment.
Western Herbal Approach: The western approach to herbology uses the bark, leaves, stems, roots, and buds of the plant which contain an active “pharmaceutical” chemical in the treatment of lesser or chronic ailments. Unlike the TCM formulas, which may have as many as 10 - 20 ingredients, a western formula typically has 5 or less ingredients. TCM herbs as well as Ayurvedic herbs may be used in some recipes within the western herbal method. Use of essential oils and flower essences may be included in the treatments. Typically the herbs used here in the U.S. are naturally what most would call weeds and shrubs, many taken from what the European settlers and Native First Americans used. Typically most, but not
KHY Method: The KHY or Kosho Hoho Yooga Method is an eclectic approach to herbology. By treating the energetic imbalances as in TCM one approaches the “source” of the issue. Noting that a balanced approach to treatment not only includes herbs alone, but diet and exercise adjustments. One would see the Ayurvedic model unfolding in this system also; incorporating dietary changes, exercise, and spiritual practices in a manner, so as, to complement the treatment. Use of essential oils and flower essences may be included in the treatments, as well as use of local herbs to the region of the individual afflicted whenever possible in hopes of utilizing the energetics of the plant pertaining to its geographic region along-side the chemical constituent of the plant to harmonize and balance the body. This cumulative approach uses herbs to treat the energetic source of the problem as well as treating the actual symptoms presented. “Diagnosis” is often made by taking a complex medical history, direct observation of the individual, and use of applied kinesiology. Understanding of chi and noting that symptoms are just indicators of a deeper issue to the source of the problem that is treated. Practitioners of this system also use shamanic plant spirit medicine as part of their treatment. Within KHY, use of herbs are specifically seen as a holistic approach which looks at the total person rather than just the symptoms of a disease. Now why is each effective, yet so different? Each system is a logical method of study, which uses herbs familiar and time tested in the treatment of dis-ease based off of the philosophy and theory of each system. Of course no one method supersedes another, with its own strengths and weaknesses. What an individual must do is find a system of practice that they can identify with. Then they must find a competent practitioner of that system whom they trust. Then they must stick with that treatment plan established in order to maximize their outcomes. Nothing happens overnight, and the individual seeking treatment must be invested in his or her outcome by following the prescribed treatment plan. Christopher Bashaw is a registered nurse with 24 years experience specializing in integrative medicine. Christopher currently is seeing patients at the Mizu Tama Dojo and White Lotus Healing Arts Clinic in Rochester, NH as well as Pinewood Medical Center at the Pinewood Healing Arts Center in Somersworth, NH. http://www.freewebs.com/mizu_tama_dojo.
• Dowsing • Energetic evaluation of a home or property • Space Clearing • Special attention to sleeping problems • Products that neutralize the effects of Geopathic stress and electro-magnetic fields of cellphones & computers
• 20 yrs experience in health, engineering and energetic medicine.
(207) 772-7888 • www.InstituteofFengShui.com
Enjoy reading this issue of Inner Tapestry! Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 17
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Ayurvedic Medicine: Originating in India more than 5,000 years ago, it notes that physical manifestations of dis-ease are attributed to the doshas or three physical body types. The term Ayurveda is Sanskrit and roughly translates to mean “life knowledge”. The principle approach to treatment is that dis-ease arises from stress of the body related to limited awareness or consciousness of the individual from unhealthy lifestyles. Yoga, breath work, meditation, dosha specific diets, and herbology are used together to right the wrong.
all practitioners of this method, use herbology as their primary treatment modality but may or may not include lifestyle changes as part of their treatment plan.
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a b rea th o f he ali n g
"To Thine Own Self Be True" by Donna Amrita Davidge
he goal of Yoga is to have a deeper relationship with your self. The self in yoga can be written Self. Practicing Yoga earnestly means self-evaluation all the way along the way. So how exactly do we be ourselves? Inside us each of us has a core, an identity separate from external identities. I am a Mainer, a female, I do this for work, my partner is that. In the midst of these external identities lies within us what is called the true identity. In Kundalini Yoga we use the words Sat Nam to represent this true identity, we meditate on these two words. The Yoga Sutras, or scriptures, open with this: “Yoga is experienced in that mind which has ceased to identify itself with its vacillating waves of perception. When this happens, the Seer is revealed, resting in its own essential nature, and one realizes the True Self.” In yoga the idea is that your authentic self radiates from your Soul. There are many identities in the external world yet each of us energetically has our own identity. At any given time we might be relating more to being positive, other times to being negative. These are not separate parts of you, one more you than the other; they are part of the many sides of you that make up your whole self. The question arises often in yoga if people who do yoga should be emotionless, calm at all times. The answer is no. We are humans and to be ourselves means to recognize all parts of our selves, not repress them because of some model we have of yoga. One of our guests recently said she went on a retreat where she had to feel out who she could actually talk to as there seemed to be this aura of “ if you are at a yoga retreat you are quiet, holier than thou.” Yoga is meant to have us handle our joy and sorrows and anger in an aware way, not to be emotionless. It is a practice mentally as much as, if not more so than, physically. Sometimes silence is a wonderful practice and we can waste a lot of time and energy talking but if we were meant to be silent all the time we would not be given the gift of gab! Being yourself means not caring what others think. One student said she wondered what “normal” people who drink and get drunk, finding this acceptable socially, would think of yoga practitioners who instead of drinking and drugging sit around chanting! She said that perhaps these others would think yogis were weirdoes. Each one of us has to figure our way to be who we are. In yoga the way to get there is to purify the body, mind and breath as much as we have time to practice, not pollute the clarity within with outside substances. This too is a personal choice. Everyone has their path, their dharma, their karma and it is not for yogis to try to change others but to live by example of who they are and in so doing see if they can inspire others to find themselves and their happiness too. Practicing yoga, avoiding things like alcohol and drugs, we should not think ourselves better or less or more weird than others. The world is a diverse place made up of many complicated human beings. Finding yourself in order to be yourself can happen quickly or take years. Sometimes the biggest tragedy pushes us to really look inside, to become who we really are, not some image we or society or our family and friends holds of us. Yoga offers a handy tool to know ourselves better. The asanas, or poses, give us a deeper relationship with the physical body, the breath gives us a deeper relationship with our inner life and being, meditation helps us observe, understand and direct our mind more efficiently. All of these yoga practices can help us better know ourselves; the tricky thing can
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be our blind spots, which excellent teachers and true friends can help us see. Here is a 15-minute Kundalini Yoga practice called Meditation On the Self. The idea behind it, and why people often do their physical practice before meditating, is that breathing and moving can open the body to be more receptive to the benefits of meditation. Before you do this set it is helpful to learn and practice breath of fire. Remember when doing this breath the inhale and exhale are equal, the exhale is not larger than the inhale. It takes some practice so start with long deep belly breathing and feel that the breath of fire goes the same place, to the navel, the seat of your power and fire. If you feel you are running out of breath slow down and keep practicing on getting the breath deep. It is not hyperventilation, which is shallow scared breathing. When you become proficient this is a great breath for overall health, strengthening and balancing the energy of all your cells. OK, let’s go! Breath of fire is a rapid rhythmic breath through the nose, pumping the belly with the breath (and the diaphragm), make sure the belly fills on the inhale, not the opposite! Eyes closed and focused between your eyebrows throughout. 1- Sit on your heels or cross-legged, spine straight, and begin to flex your spine forward and back as quickly as you can. Do not bob your head, keep the head straight on top of the spine, face forward. When moving the spine forward the chest lifts, when moving back it caves in. Do this for 3 minutes with a continuous breath of fire (the pace of your movement does not have to be as fast as the breath). 2- Sit on your heels or cross-legged and bring your arms straight up, elbows straight, palms together, fingers clasped except the index fingers, which meet and point up. Begin to say SAT as you pull your navel (belly) in and NAM as you release. The breath will now be automatically through the nose. Be strong with the sound SAT, like you are spitting it out. 3 minutes, then inhale and hold the breath, exhale and hold. Squeeze the lower internal muscles as you suspend the breath. Relax. 3- Sit on your heels or cross-legged and hold on to your knees or hands on the thighs (if on your heels). With a continuous breath of fire, alternate lifting and lowering your shoulders for 3 minutes. 4- Now come sitting cross-legged and for 6 minutes meditate on the flow of creative energy in you. Meditate on: Who Am I? Meditate on your past, your present and your future. Ask yourself “ What Is It I Wish To Accomplish?” Repeat a second time all 4 steps to have a complete meditation on the Self. “The Universe is created by sound and spirit. What is the frequency at which you want to create? And what is the energy you put into it? How sweet are you? How simple are you? How sure are you? That decides your life” Yogi Bhajan, Master of Kundalini Yoga.
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The Thirteenth Moon
~ a light filled circular sacred space surrounded by fields and trees ~ 18 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
S ewall H ouse
Susan Bakaley Marshall ATR-BC, LCPC
board certified art therapist, licensed clinical counselor, Shamanic practitioner
ART from the heART
Art Therapy & Shamanism Studio
Donna Amrita Davidge owns and operates www.sewallhouse.com Yoga retreat in Island Falls Maine with her musician and chef husband Kent Bonham. Amrita also maintains a teaching practice in New York City.
• shamanic journeys and healings • soul retrieval • Individuals • Groups • Classes (207) 589-3063 moonarts@gmail.com
Yoga Retreat Experience history of an earlier time. . . Sewall House Retreat offers yoga v meditation v massage and more. . . July 4 thru Columbus Day
Where Theodore Roosevelt learned the healing attributes of nature. (207) 463-3428
v
www.sewallhouse.com
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AwarenessandtheArtofSeeing:
Contemplations on the environment and interconnection by Jen Deraspe
Fire Wood Profanity
Now, my dear father smiles down upon me as I do the same. Oh, the humble irony as I sit on the tailgate of the truck in between loads sipping hot tea and dunking Fig Newtons in, just like he did. I can hear his chuckle and feel his satisfaction while reminiscing about our slutting days together and now as I follow in his frugal footsteps. This fall, I find myself processing the wood slutted from last April’s snow banks. I collected it all, from 1” diameter to about 12”, all that my back feels good about lifting.
I am willing to admit it. I am a self-proclaimed “Wood Slut.” A wood slut is a person who diligently watches for and follows the work of power line crews working along any public roadway as they trim trees and limbs to prevent outages along the grid. I begin to separate the limbs from the trunks as I saw them into stove length pieces. My mind fantasizes about how the small wood will be used for cooking and baking since they create a hot fire to heat the wood-fired kitchen cook stove. I dream of sights and smells of bread rising, soup simmering, and beans cooking with the snow falling from the winter sky outside. As I toss the trunks into the slowly rising pile, I can see which ones will be the “all nighters” and those that keep the cabin warm during my snowshoeing treks following the well-worn porcupine trails along the mountain ledges. I appreciate the final turn in the life circle of each tree as it gives itself to me, heating my heart, my hearth and my soul as I plan for nesting during the storms ahead. I stop to smell the subtle differences between the mountain oak, the beech, the maple, and thank them all for all they give.
May I use them well. Nurture Through N atu re
Let Us Guide You Home...
Jen Deraspe, owner of Nurture Through Nature, is a holistic retreat facilitator and practitioner of The Work of Byron Katie. She lives off the grid on Pleasant Mountain in Denmark, Maine. www.ntnreats.com, (207) 452-2929.
Pleasant Mountain, Denmark, ME
Whatever is he looking for? A Yoga Retreat, maybe a class? A place for healing? A woodland guide? Herbal Medicine? A sacred space? I bet he'll find it here in
Inner Tapestry!
Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 19
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The ease and beauty experienced by the Certified Wood Slut is astonishing, really. First of all, the wood slut does not have to take a life in the forest for his or her own needs. The killing has already occurred. Secondly, the crew also chips the small branches so there is no brush to trip over and haul out of sight if one was working on their own land. And, how about some free fire wood? Can’t beat that! In addition, this wood slut’s competitive spirit gets stroked, being the first on site before the other wood sluts sure to follow. This particular batch I slutted was profoundly satisfying. The crew was on my own gravel road that I live off; therefore, it could not have been more local. I asked my neighbors if they minded or wanted to share in the bounty and I got the green light to have my way with it. My favorite! Load after load after load I slutted, smiling and dreaming of next winter’s warmth. From the age of zero to 14, I was forced to slut with my father, mother and our Springer Spaniel, Mike. I was well versed in the art of Wood Slutting and one may say it is in my blood. My father was never more tickled then when he came across a blow down or the hard wood remnants of some logging operation he was waiting to pounce upon. Dad was the ultimate slut, having a special pass to gated paper company land with permission to pick over anything they left behind, much to my disgust. This was my least favorite way to spend a weekend at the time—a pubescent prisoner to the master wood slut.
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destinatio n h e al i n g ~ n o r t h e r n n ew en g l a n d
Being Yourself Through Chiropractic Neurology by Kevin Pennell Bethel, Maine
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eing yourself surely includes taking care of yourself. And taking care of yourself opens options that include new and specialized approaches to established methods of treatment. That’s our Destination for Healing. We enjoyed an enriching conversation with Dr. Aaron MacArthur of Portland Chiropractic Neurology where a specialized functional approach is offered to patients by improving the health of their brain and nervous system, without the use of drugs or surgery. Dr. MacArthur is the only Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist in the state of Maine. According to his website, www.portchiro.com, he’s dedicated to bringing a new model of healthcare to Maine.
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As a Maine native, Dr. MacArthur understands the need for a new approach to many areas where drugs and surgery could not meet the needs of many patients. He not only specializes in treating the spine through chiropractic care, but he also treats the brain and its supporting structures, which is the basis for many problems faced today.
the best possible treatment options. Maybe it’s not my office. Maybe it’s elsewhere, but you’re able to provide the best treatment options and the best diagnosis of what really is causing the problem not just looking at, and treating symptoms." Dr. MacArthur explained that the way he can initiate change in someone is through their thorough examination procedures. “The real trick to making a health change for a patient is to locate the cause of the problem.” This is accomplished by examining the brain and its function and, in turn, identify the areas of dysfunction. “It may be something simple.” However, they may need to examine deeper to locate the source of the dysfunction. “Once we find that dysfunction through in depth examination procedures then we can devise treatment plans for that condition.
Chiropractic Neurology began in the early 1990s as a field of functional medicine. “Chiropractors are not the only ones who take these courses.” Osteopaths, Orthopaedic doctors, and medical doctors take the same course of study as Dr. MacArthur because of recent knowledge learned about the brain since the 1990s. “I use chiropractic to treat people with neurological deficits, but it really is a separate field outside chiropractic although they work well together because it’s able to stimulate many changes.” By incorporating neurology, he meets the needs of a broader spectrum people. “Now we have an unlimited potential to help people, utilizing different techniques like neurological aspects of chiropractic, or maybe they are referred out for Reiki, Craniosacral, massage or some other modality. With an in depth understanding of the nervous system we’re able to understand the body’s functions altogether and really understand what the person needs. Therefore, we’re able to give them 20 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
“The cool thing with this stuff is it isn’t a temporary thing. The goal is to create a permanent change, and the nervous system does that. Once it creates enough memory or it has had enough activation either over time or spatially then it can become permanent.” That’s what they want to accomplish instead of making a temporary change requiring a follow up two weeks later for the same activation. Depending on the longevity and severity of the condition, follow up visits may be necessary. But the goal is to create permanent change. Sometimes, results are quick. Other times results may take a while. Dr. MacArthur referred to an example that can be found on their website, www.portchiro.com, A fellow Chiropractic Neurologist was speaking in Spain when he was confronted by a family who traveled a great distance to see him. They had been everywhere and decided to try this Doctor, who they hoped could help their blind daughter of 20 years. Dr. Frederick Carrick accepted and began treatment that day. Within hours the young girl who had been blind her entire life, entering the room with a cane, now stood and walked outside, without her cane! Everyone stood in astonishment as she described the beautiful roses in the garden! How could this be? This girl had seen countless medical experts and had been blind her entire life prior to this moment. She could now see! Welcome to the world of Chiropractic Neurology.
Dr. MacArthur received his undergraduate degree in biology from University of Maine, Orono. His Doctoral education was spent in Dallas, Texas for an additional four years at Parker College of Chiropractic. He received his Post-Doctoral education at the Carrick institute for neurological studies, which is an extensive three-year program where a rigorous board examination must be passed to obtain the degree. According to Dr. MacArthur, the unique quality of Chiropractic Neurology is the “fact that you are incorporating the brain more than anything else. You are working with what we call neuroplasticity or changing the brain. This change comes from activation through the nervous system. Most of the activation from the body comes from the spine. We use several different methods to access different parts of the brain including working with joints, muscles, the spine itself, and optikenetics or eye movement, auditory stimulation, balance, coordination, and cold laser therapy (low level laser technology) which activates the metabolism of the brain and the body’s DNA at the cellular level. The body is one entire system that works fluidly together and when it gets out of balance the whole body is affected.”
would send activation to the left side of the brain creating changes (neuroplasticity) in the brain and thus increase the health of the brain.”
"Now we have unlimited potential to help people..." “The heart of our treatment is to identify the cause of the problem through thorough examination. We evaluate the symptoms and use them in our diagnosis, but we don’t say your knee hurts, so it must be your knee. That’s a segmental approach and that’s traditionally more western. If someone has right knee pain, it may not be at the knee. It could be an area in the brain that perceives that area pain and built up an area of plasticity (change) in a bad way. Now it’s too sensitive to pain. To treat that left knee area one needs to examine that area of the brain, change it, and stimulate it so it becomes healthier. Also there are many pharmaceuticals available for people and one thing they may not realize is this… pharmaceuticals are not long term. They do not create permanent changes. They are short-term, and we know that. What I am interested in is creating permanent long-term changes and that’s what we do.” Dr. MacArthur was helpful in explaining how he works with patients following the initial exam. “Let’s say someone has a left brain disfunction. One way to activate that left brain would be to utilize structures only on the right side of the body, maybe using pressure points. If you use some pressure points, mobilize, or manipulate some right side joints that
How did Dr. Carrick accomplish this? The young girl was experiencing Cortical Blindness, a condition that affected her Thalamus and Occipital lobe of the cortex, but did not affect her actual eye or optic nerve. The Occipital cortex and Thalamus receive images from the eye and translate them into a language your brain understands. However, here the translator was sick. She didn’t have a tumor, or vascular lesions of some sort, she just lacked the functionality of her occipital cortex (it just didn't work correctly). Her brain had not been activated properly and thus became unhealthy, much as a muscle will atrophy, or shrink after a period of inactivity. When you actively use that muscle it grows again and becomes healthy. Put it in a cast and it will shrink. The same goes for the brain, although quite a bit more complicated. Restrict the proper activation to the brain and it will lose proper function. Dr. Carrick activated the brain properly and turned on the DNA production of the brain, which made adequate materials for her cells to thrive. Amazingly, this was in one visit. Depression, stress, insomnia and many other conditions can be treated through Chiropractic Neurology. “It’s a longitudinal level of a lesion.” He doesn’t mean a lesion like a tumor. Longitudinal level of a lesion is a system of diagnosing a problem. Let’s say a person’s finger hurts. “Maybe it is a problem in the finger. Maybe the joint is affected. Then we discover it isn’t. So we begin to systematically look
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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
S h e I s. . . B e c o m i n g H e r s e l f by Karen M. Rider Griswold, Connecticut
“How would your life have been different, if, as a child, there had been a place for you to go to be yourself, where you did not have to conform and you were free to express all that is beautiful and ugly that you held within you…? Where there were elders to help you trust your own becoming—in darkness and in light… Where you could weave together the fabric of your life?”1
C A child discovering her voice C My daughter, who is nearly 3 years old, has a keen awareness of “I’m me, not you.” She understands that she is a separate sacred being from Mommy and Daddy. She never holds back in sharing her likes and dislikes, whether it is the way another child is treating her, what food is served for dinner, or a request to use the potty, she gets her point across. Her ego is rising!
C A mother's worry a mother's gift C I worry how I, as a woman and a mother, will be able to guide her into staying true to her emerging sense of self. Is it possible to teach her how not to get caught-up in images of “who she thinks she is supposed to be” as interpreted through her relationships with parents, siblings, peers and later in life, with colleagues and adult friends or partners? Can I help her understand that, yes, there will be times when she will need to adopt a certain persona—wear a mask—in order to navigate through a difficult situation, but she does not have to become the mask? Perhaps the most important gift I can give my daughter is a place where she can go to be who she is—without judgment, without question. A place, described by noted feminist writer Judith Duerk, “where she is received and affirmed, even as she struggles to become more truly herself.” In this place, she and I (and the sister whose birth we presently await), gather to share and to be heard, and to simply be present to one another and to the unfolding of our lives, moment-by-moment. I wonder if I can provide this place—a sacred circle in which mother and daughters gather to experience and honor all that is beautiful and ugly in our lives. Will her sense of self emerge stronger, more resilient, and more authentic? Will mine?
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There is no simple way to create or find the time away from the hub of family life. As I live the question, “How do I do this…?” I find I must be creative, flexible, and adjust my expectations. A weekend by the sea, of course, would be ideal but it is not always feasible. There is a park near my home where I can take some time while my spouse plays with my daughter on the playground. There is a long wait in the doctor’s office, where I bring my journal and write, instead of looking at magazines or talking on the phone. When my spouse schedules a “Daddy-Daughter Day,” I no longer allow time to get away from me with an endless list of chores. I do what is necessary and required (like having food in the house and clean clothes) and I allow time to simply be with myself, for reflection and renewal. Upon our reunion, my family finds me to be more of who I want to be in relation to them: a responsive, loving and relaxed parent and partner. My daughters will grow-up in the blink of an eye, my dear friend Michele always tells me. My intention is to provide the safe, loving, sacred space in which my daughters can weave the fabric of their lives and become the authentic beings they were divinely created to be. For Further Reading: Circle of Stones: Woman’s Journey to Herself Judith Duerk, c. 1989 Lura Media: CA I Sit Listening to the Wind: Woman’s Encounter within Herself. Judith Duerk, c. Inner Ocean Publishing, Inc.: Maui, HI 1 This quote adapted from passages and concepts in both of Judith Duerk’s books.
Karen M. Rider, M.A. writes articles, stories, reviews, and promotional copy that educates, enlightens and entertains the reader. Karen is guided by three muses— clarity, integrity and creativity—in all endeavors. She holds a degree in health psychology. Karen resides in central Connecticut where she shares life’s adventures with her daughters and husband. She is working on her first novel. Contact: KarenM_Rider@cox.net
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My spouse and I want to celebrate and support her journey into becoming herself— the expression of her voice and the array of feelings that she will experience and, no doubt, display to her parents. For this is part of her uniqueness, her ability to “feel the feelings” and communicate them in her own way. Still, as she discovers the power of her voice, my spouse and I are tasked with teaching her how to channel this energy in safe and healthy ways, physically and psychologically.
Sacred Space to Authentically Be To provide this sacred space for my daughters, I must first provide it for myself. I must create the time away from the activity of parenting, working, caring for the home and personal relationships, to just be with my-self. In this time away from the chaos of daily life, I can discover new facets of who I am by chipping away at aspects of my being that no longer serve me. In so doing I unearth new, more invigorating ways of living and being. In this sacred time away, I receive a priceless gift: an evolving sense of my-self—who I am and who I want to be—in relationship to my daughters.
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f eng shu i & ge o pa t h o l og y
by Werner Brandmaier
ero-point energy describes the energy still existing in a substance at its absolute zero temperature. As there is no particle movement of any kind left, this is a very special kind of energy. In quantum physics, zero-point energy is synonymous with vacuum energy, the amount of energy associated with the vacuum of empty space, the energy that fills the cosmos. It is formless and omnipresent. Within zero-point energy lies the intelligence to create perfect form, the blueprint of all existence.
3.
The tester will push straight down towards the floor. If the balance of the person tested is out of alignment, they will easily fall over. In most cases there is no need for much pressure at all.
Many of us have heard stories of scientists over the last century, such as Nicola Tesla or Viktor Schauberger from Austria, who experimented with forms of "free energy." Old reports describe some of their projects, one being a car engine solely running on this clean and abundant energy. Today followers try to reconstruct their prototypes. Still, it seems there is quite a way to go.
Once the immune system is weakened, the body cannot perform optimally and becomes vulnerable. With a compromised inner milieu the cell environment turns acidic, which gives ground to bacteria, fungus, viral infection or even worse, causes all kind of chronic and degenerative conditions, like heart disease, diabetes, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and even cancer.
In the field of health technologies, devices that balance subtle stress levels using the zero-point approach are available already. More than a decade ago I first learnt about the work of David Wagner, a pioneer of tachyon products that are closely connected with the concept of zero-point fields. Tachyons are tiny particles within the infinite energy continuum. Because they move faster than light, time is supposed to run slightly backwards. This is the origin of fascinating discussions and speculations. For if we could turn back time, even just a bit, we would have found a form of genuine regeneration and a true fountain of youth.
Back to the testing: In a second step we apply the device we want to investigate and repeat the test exactly the same way. The person now should experience an immediate improvement in their overall strength. They should be able to resist even greater pressure and remain in balance much longer.
At that time we experimented with tachyon discs to shield geopathic stress, and small tachyon glass cells helped to balance our first cell phones. However, the results we found at that point were that the imprinting process was not strong enough and, over the years the charge in these devices diminished. In addition we needed complicated setups to neutralize harmful earth energies in a whole house which later led to the development of the Feng Shui Power tools. A few months ago at an expo in Florida, a chiropractor introduced me to some new zero-point energy devices. Having tested many products over the years, I was skeptical at first. Two months went by until I finally got the chance to play with some pieces and I started a series of experiments for myself. I was focusing on practical use leaving the theoretical understanding of the manufacturing process for an upcoming ZeroPoint Conference in Phoenix, AZ. One does not need to be an electrician in order to learn how to operate a light switch. One of new tests we were applying to prove a rise in subtle energy is called the "Toy Soldier Balance Test." Within seconds it shows how grounded a person is and how firmly one‘s subtle bio-field responds. Anything stressful will disrupt the flow of chi, making him a light weight, unable to resist the applied pressure and remain standing.
There are a number of companies offering devices that are charged with zero-point or similar types of energy. The first tachyon company, for example, was founded in Japan in the mid sixties. Currently, there are companies in the US, Germany and even Australia manufacturing comparable technology: Advanced-TachyonTechnologies in California, Colorado based BioGenesis, Australian originated TriVortex, Slim Spurling's superconductivity rings from Arizona, or Aaron Singleton's "Rings of Oden" from Massachussetts. They all work in different ways, with varying results. The explanations as to how they work range from over-the-top scientific theory to quite esoteric sounding interpretations. I truly believe everybody should develop personal testing skills. I've mentioned before that energy testing takes some time to practice until one feels confident with the results. Once you can trust your own findings, it is the only source that counts. With testing methods such as applied kinesiology, body dowsing or with the balance-test described earlier, an individual response at a specific point in time can be recorded. If the tested subject, the environment and other circumstances stay similar, results will be fairly reproducable. I have experimented with many different devices over the years, from old Austrian Grandner technology to Stirwands, Chinese chi machines, and more recently, ZeroPoint energy tools. My latest favorite device is a cold laser emitting added zeropoint frequencies through its red beam. It can be used to activate acupuncture points, work on a person's body balance or even support pain release. The most simple and amazing results I obtained when revitalizing food. Beverages tasted differently within a few seconds. They seemed smoother, rounder, and when checking energy levels, they measured significantly higher. Our latest experiments show that water stays activated more than a week after being lasered one time for about 10 seconds. That is impressive. If zero-point technology can change physical form towards its blueprint, the original holographic form that all things grow into, there may be a whole new area of possible energetic applications. For example, can we apply zero-point fields to whole houses or offices, something we try to achieve in Feng Shui? Can we charge fuels for better efficiency and cleaner combustion? And can we apply zero-point frequencies over distances, too?
Here is the sequence of the test: 1.
The test subject should stand straight like a toy soldier, hands on their side, feet together. Make sure they don’t have a bad arm or shoulder. If so, use other side.
2.
Facing the opposite direction, the tester places their closed fist into the cupped hand of the person being tested. Both people’s arm needs to be totally straight. Don’t bend at the elbow.
I‘m looking forward to the upcoming conference mid September and will report new findings in one of the next issues.
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. Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 23
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Albert Einstein was one of the creators of the German term "Nullpunktsenergie" in the early 1900s. This later translated to "zero-point energy." There has been much speculation as to whether it is possible to tap into this infinite source of energy and derive benefit of it, such as utilizing it for healing and creating new anti-aging technologies.
It is a well-known fact that our bodies are under constant stress by conditions that are often man-made and virtually invisible to the human senses. Electromagnetic fields in the high frequency range, as well as extra low frequencies traveling along power lines, can penetrate the physical body. The stress created weakens the body‘s immune function. Any device plugged into a wall outlet, transformers, but even more so electronic appliances and devices, such as cell phones, computers, microwaves, radio and TVs, are emitting waves that create significant imbalance in the body's naturally occurring bio-field.
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t he 2 1 s t c e ntu ry b o h e m i a n
Master Spotlight at Maine Media Workshops by Teresa Piccari
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y day, they are the storied photographers and filmmakers who bring the Maine Media Workshops (MMW) catalog to life, teaching their craft to a new generation. At night, the spotlight is on the art they themselves make. For those of us fortunate enough to live in or visit the Rockport area, summer evenings offer a glimpse into the master classes. As film and photographs flood the screen at Union Hall, the creators provide a "behind the scenes" look into what goes into a shoot and what goes on inside the artist capturing the image. The lighting, the equipment, the location, the real and hired players, the drama, the egos, the weather, the deadlines, the budget – and sometimes, danger – it’s enough to give one a creative high just sitting there looking at a screen in a room that starts out cool but once filled to capacity, quickly takes on the quality of a steamy living room filled with relatives watching family movies. Although the images are definitely not shots from Uncle Bob and Aunt Evelyn’s trip to the Grand Canyon, the pros at this world-famous school in our backyard, make you feel like family as they open their doors to the community, inviting you to come inside and watch some pictures. Over the course of several evenings this past summer, I did just that. And this is what I saw, heard, learned and felt.
From Crete to Rockport
Academy-award winning cinematographer Walter Lassally, 81, had been at the workshops 18 years ago and said he had “not expected to cross the Atlantic again.” Known for his use of HMI lighting, Arriflex cameras and high-speed stocks, he showed footage from several of his films, including Tom Jones, The Bostonians, The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner and the 1964 black and white Zorba the Greek, starring Anthony Quinn, for which he earned his Oscar. Now retired and living in a village on the Isle of Crete, which he discovered in his Zorba days, he generously welcomed everyone to visit him “on the beach, second tent on the right.” Born in Berlin, the filmmaker, who had one Polish and one German parent, escaped Hitler as a child with his family, fleeing to England just two months before WWII erupted. There was something otherworldly about Lassally, in simple country dress of trousers, cotton shirt and thin suspenders. Clearly, even before he spoke, one could see he was not an American. His countenance was unguarded; he was effusive with a generosity of spirit and a twinkle in his eye that bespoke not only of a Mediterranean joie de vivre but also of a man at ease in his own skin. His face carries many stories, set slightly askew by certain chapters perhaps, that ultimately, by sheer luck or determination, settled on happy endings. Through his animated gestures – jumping out of his chair and holding an imaginary camera up to his face saying “you have to train your eyes how to see, to get a picture from the best angle, so a tree isn’t popping out of someone’s head” – one can discern a childlike wonder and lack of self-consciousness often left on the playgrounds of youth that must, if we are to succeed as artists, be reclaimed as adults. Still passionate about his craft and worried about its future, Lassally implored the students present to preserve and protect it. 26 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
In the United States, he noted, money is what separates television and theatrical movies, with respective budgets of $2 million to $10 million, creating a huge void. “Lots of movies today fall into that black hole and don’t get made. It’s stupid and it’s tragic,” he said. The filmmaker said modern day shooting schedules, which are for the most part cut in half from 40 days to 21, are so tight they not only present artistic constraints but have at times, led to dangerous situations where “people get killed” during arduous fourteen hour days, as opposed to more sane nine and ten hour days. Another thorn in filmmakers' sides, he explained, is the wide screen format, which has never been standardized resulting in films that appear different from screen to screen. “We can no longer compose an image because you need a frame,” he explained.
Still passionate about his craft and worried about its future, Lassally implored the students present to preserve and protect it. One bright spot, he said, are the festivals that show independent films. But they don’t get shown to a wide audience, he said. These films, he noted, still tell the stories of people in their thirties and forties, which Hollywood doesn’t, preferring instead to make movies for and about seven-to-seventeen year olds. The pressures of telling only the stories of youth, also hinders the development of filmmakers’ careers and provides for “no continuity” for a body of evolutionary work over the course of a lifetime, said Lassally, who has made over 90 films in genres including mainstream features, international art films and documentary. Another challenge he noted is the expense of getting movies to the public. “Three to five years from now you won’t see a foot of celluloid in movie theaters, it will all be video,” Lassally said, characterizing the change in medium as “a ray of hope” as the cost of obtaining a movie for theaters will drop from approximately $100,000 for celluloid to $100 for video.
Pulitzer Winning Photojournalist
Stan Grossfeld, a two-time Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist for The Boston Globe (for Spot News coverage in war-torn Lebanon in 1984 and for Feature Photography during the Ethiopian famine and illegal alien activity at the U.S. and Mexican border in 1998) made a return visit to MMW. Raised in the Bronx, New York, it was clear Grossfeld has embraced his Boston home with much affection, showing photos from World Series traveling coverage of the Red Sox. But it was the photos from the war in Lebanon, a little
girl who had lost an eye, and the haunting photograph of a starving mother and child (who died later the same day) in Ethiopia, where Grossfeld’s work had a palpable effect on the packed room. More pictures from chain gangs in the South, in the not too distant past, and others from a New England prison, depicting deplorable conditions portrayed Grossfeld’s passion for social justice, for which he is known. The photographer shared tips on how to take a picture that needs to be taken but is not supposed to be taken. Visceral advice was contained in Grossfeld’s suggestion, “If you ever say to yourself ‘look’ then you should make a picture.” He also offered very practical advice for students. Flashing a New York City shot featuring the former Twin Towers of the World Trade Center, he urged them to “always make an overall wherever you go.”
Boxers, Cowboys and Musicians
New York City photographer Arlene Collins, who has taught at the workshops for over a decade, showed a series of boxing photographs made at the city’s Rome Boxing Club she shot practically every night for a year. She saw skinny kids come in with no self-esteem, or strength of physique transform before her lens. “Boxing gave these young kids their own voice.” She has traveled the world photographing people in locations including Papua New Guinea, Hanoi, Mongolia, Columbia, Brazil, Cuba, India and China. “For me a portrait is a dialogue between myself and the individual,” Collins said. Saying her work was about “contact and context”; she also showed work she shot at a New Jersey rodeo over two summers. When it comes to cameras, said Collins, “the simpler the better.” Boston photographer John Goodman made his 15th appearance at the summer workshops. His photographs of another New York boxing gym were published in the classic photography book The Times Square Gym. It was a small neon sign up on the second floor that first caught his eye, recalled Goodman, who said how grateful he was that he stopped and crossed the street and went into the place that helped define his career. How many times in our lives are we intrigued by something and tell ourselves we’ll stop back, he asked, and don’t? Among his portraits was a shot of James Dougherty, first husband of Marilyn Monroe. He told the photographer that when he was 17 he was sent by a family member to pick Monroe up from school in his truck. “She was 15, she scooted right up next to me on the seat and when she turned 16 we got married. “I didn’t marry Marilyn Monroe, I married Norma Jean Baker and she loved me,” Goodman quoted Dougherty as saying. Chris Stanford, from Atlanta, GA, in his second year at MMW, was there to teach a class on Lighting Outside the Box. He said he does a lot of photojournalism and advertising work and earlier in his career, did magazine portraits. “It’s imbedded in me. It’s something I have to do, it’s not work to me,” he said of his craft. The advertising work he does for national accounts is what allows him the financial freedom to make the artistic pictures he wants to make, he explained. One of
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t he w ay o f lif e - its e l f
Being Myself Is An Act Of Value Intelligence by Norm and Skye Hirst, Ph.D.
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or some time I have been writing articles about what I think. For this article I am going to write about why I think what I think. We are all participants in reality. We are all co-creators of reality. Each one of us will know something based on that experience. How does that work? My life’s work of inquiry about values has taken me into realms I never would have imagined and given me working knowledge I now believe may be where meaning truly resides. Being me, I’ve inquired about values. I wanted to know where values show up. Are there really values? Should we all hold the same values? Are they just good for Sunday school conversations? What is the root of morality? Ethics? Is it just something someone makes up randomly and then a group adopts them and they become a fact of that culture? I don’t believe that significant working knowledge can be based on just ratiocination. Good working knowledge comes from combining personal experience with personal inquiry.
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My current working knowledge about value intelligence began with experience in a combat zone in Korea in 1950. As fate had it my job was maintaining airborne radar. To do my job they made sure to keep me safe; but I had a ringside seat to the war. After that I went to MIT as a student with a part time job working in a war laboratory. There I learned how exciting the intellectual challenges of creating high tech weapons could be. Then my memories from the war caught up with me. I saw that sanity required me to devote my life to ending wars. I am cheered by a quote, “He who attempts the absurd can do the impossible.” I don’t remember where I read it. It occurred to me that to do as we were doing, something was wrong with our values. I did not know what values actually were. Were they just Sunday school propaganda or real rules we should live by? I did not think that anyone else knew either. Then Robert Hartman, an internationally renowned philosopher specializing in value theory was hired by a foundation to come to MIT to evaluate the humanities program. He taught courses on value theory, called axiology. I took his courses. He became my friend and mentor. While I agreed with Hartman’s axiology, it didn’t fit with what I was learning about scientific materialism. Then, in my studies at MIT I began to realize that values only function in life, not in materialism. Yet, all our thinking about life, based on scientific materialism, was totally unable to accommodate the idea of values. Materialism deals with matter and that’s only part of reality. From a materialism point of view, anything that happens is due to forces pushing or pulling things. In materialism the only forces are collisions in random processes, and from physics gravity, electricity, magnetism and the four basic nuclear forces. From that view activity is produced by cause and effect, mechanisms, and determinism. Where are values? Some who wish to stick with scientific materialism as a point of view in searching for values might realize there are processes going on and such processes are computable, such as those occurring in the brain. It has been thought that maybe some of those processes are random with strange attractors as in chaos theory and they are what we call values. Whew! I wondered if that would really work. However, 28 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
in tracking the results of much current research in living process, I have been surprised to see that in life, nothing is computable. For some gross purposes we might simulate an aspect of a living process by computation. Having worked with some of the early attempts in computer intelligence, I often saw great ideas produce promising results when applied to what were called “toy problems”. Advancing to real problems they seemed to hit a brick wall.
The current paradigm change is between the old paradigm based on the fundamental nature of matter and the emerging paradigm based on the fundamental nature of energy. During the sixties, in research at the University of Texas Linguistic Research Laboratory I participated in a 10-year study questioning the possibility of information theory leading to artificial intelligence. The conclusion that emerged from that study was there had to be a paradigm change concerning our notions of information to make artificial intelligence possible. In later research, I found life did not work the way we thought. There was something profoundly fundamental missing. In 1970 I realized there had to be a far deeper paradigm change regarding life. Tracking the results of laboratory experiments in physics and biophysics confirmed my expectations. There were results that absolutely could not happen in materialism, and I don’t mean just quantum phenomena. There were results showing absolutely unexplainable connections between people and results indicating the existence of unknown biofields. That paradigm change is now underway and is being recognized. The Institute of Noetic Sciences has published a report documenting the change; the 2007 Shift Report. Their website summarizes the report as follows: “The 2007 Shift Report: Evidence of a World Transforming, attempts to chart the transition we believe is underway from a rigid, mechanistic, and materialistic worldview to one that is built on a foundation of interconnectedness, cooperation, and the intersection of science and spirituality;" There seems to be a lot of confusion today. It is hard to know what to believe. Everything seems to be in chaos of adversarial relations. This is typical during a paradigm change and especially one of this magnitude.
There will be a struggle between truths of the old paradigm and truths of the emerging paradigm. The current paradigm change is between the old paradigm based on the fundamental nature of matter and the emerging paradigm based on the fundamental nature of energy. The matter paradigm: Matter is the fundamental reality. It exists in space-time. It is a discrete enduring thing. If there is activity or motion it is the result of the forces due to random collisions or forces known to physics, i.e., gravity, electricity, magnetism and the four nuclear forces. Change is simply a rearrangement of existing matter. The Greeks began looking for the smallest non-divisible particles that could be rearranged. This has produced the search for fundamental particles that continues today. The energy paradigm: Energy is the fundamental reality, but it is a strange form of energy unknown before the development of quantum theory. It is called zero point energy; it is energy of a system at the temperature of absolute zero. It can be said that the universe swims in a sea of zero point energy. The sea is named the Dirac Sea. This energy is the energy of life itself. This energy can create matter. It can create what we perceive as living entities; material systems created and activated by internal energy flows. (This is where values show up.) In 1970 I was beginning to think there was no possibility that blind or random processes could create the complex coherence seen in life. Further, I did not accept designer theories because it seemed to me the design kept changing. Working with computers I experienced a form of evolution. In the beginning, 1957, a computer memory of roughly 100,000 bytes required a cabinet the size of a large piece of furniture. Today 2 billion bytes fit in a little thing about two inches long. Computer cycles were in millionths of a second. Then they became billionths of a second. This isn’t evolution as we normally think of it. But my computer experience gave me a realization that evolution occurs not by random processes, but by intelligent “actors” initiating acts based on experience where value intelligence guides the way. Who are the intelligent actors building advances for natural evolution? It is us, it is life itself. It is not random processes. It is not God the designer. It is life with God a co-creator. In traditional language living processes work by a constant oscillation between facts and values. Facts establish what can be created next. Values select what will be created next. Living entities are born with two kinds of creative intelligence; one for creating awareness of what is, and one for valuation. We might call them IQ and VIQ. The living entity develops by the oscillation. If the value intelligence is weak or confused, the life of the entity will degenerate. If the value intelligence is simply not working, the entity’s life will become meaningless. I am saying that living in a world dominated by scientific materialism destroys the meaning of life. Returning to the question about values; are they merely Sunday school virtues or laws to live by? They are definitely laws to live by. But they only apply to those oscillations between facts and values. Living
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explorin g the wo r l d r e l i g i on s
Decide to be Peaceful – On Jainism by James Bean
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begin this article on peace in the world religions with a poem/prayer/affirmation by Dr. Robert Muller, Assistant Secretary General of the United Nations for 40 years, spiritual teacher, and former Chancellor of the University for Peace in Cuidad Colon, Costa Rica. Decide to be Peaceful Decide to be peaceful Render others peaceful Be a model of peace Irradiate your peace Love passionately the peace of our beautiful planet Do not listen to the warmongers, hate seeders and power-seekers Dream always of a peaceful world Work always for a peaceful world Switch on and keep on, in yourself
and all peacemakers Pray for the leaders of nations who hold the peace of the world in their hands Pray God to let our planet at long last become the Planet of Peace And sing in unison with all humanity “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.” Words to follow and live by, quite literally. On a planetary level we can decide to work for peace through education and political activism to communicate with the leadership of the nations, urging them through people-power to move in the direction of wisdom and away from violence. Dare I say, that we would not even be here without the influence of voices of sanity, reason and moderation in decades gone by, and this work is not yet finished. As we witness fairly bellicose leaders in possession of the reigns of power during what continues to be the nuclear age, I can’t help but remember the lyrics of an old King Crimson song from 1969, Epitaph Including March For No Reason, from the album, The Court of the Crimson King: Between the iron gates of fate, The seeds of time were sown, And watered by the deeds of those Who know and who are known; Knowledge is a deadly friend When no one sets the rules. The fate of all mankind I see Is in the hands of fools. On a personal level, the great schools of spirituality of the ages have offered much wisdom about peaceful living to those with ears to hear, but before I begin my discourse on Jainism, here’s a word about leadership in spiritual or religious organizations. It’s always been a mystery to me how some who are influential or in positions of leadership in spiritual organizations can be as manipulative and as ruthless as anybody on the planet. Why is this
"Oh Lord, this ocean of the world is very deep and we are flowing in it without any support." Lord Mahavira, 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, 599 B.C.E.
Recently I received some major insight into this phenomena by watching a lecture by Barbara Oakley, author of the book, Evil Genes – Why Rome Fell, Hitler Rose, Enron Failed, and My Sister Stole My Mother’s Boyfriend, published by Prometheus Books. It makes sense really, that on occasion it’s the “successfully sinister” (also known as Machiavellians) that rise to the “top” by any means necessary in various sorts of organizations, and that can of course include religious or spiritual organizations too. What an eye-opener! An amazing must-read for anyone aspiring to positions of leadership in any type of organization. It will keep you humble, introspective, and reflective. Just to cut the “successfully sinister” some slack... “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (New Testament) Kabir says, “None of us has gone far.” “Oh Lord, this ocean of the world is very deep and we are flowing in it without any support.” (Lord Mahavira, 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, 599 B.C.E.) In other words, if specific and detailed ahimsa principals governing all aspects of thought, word, and conduct have never been clearly or fully taught in the first place, are not necessarily part of the ethos or culture, then of course, sure enough, no great surprise then if ahimsa principals are not being adhered to. “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” (Hosea 4: 6, Hebrew Bible) Or as it says in the Uttaradhyayana Sutra of Jainism: “No conduct is possible without knowledge, without conduct, there’s no liberation, and without liberation, no deliverance.” So, as with other aspects of the spiritual journey and the Path of the Masters, it is a matter of competent spiritual guidance, communication and education that leads to new self-discovery and dimensions of peace. Lord Mahavira: “The whole process of evolution, for the spirit, is an awakening to the truths, and the
means of implementation of those truths, that are eternally present in itself. What was implicit has to become explicit... When you discover for yourself, however dimly, that you are rooted in something that is infinitely vast potential, you have found the soil wherein you grow unconsciously into a most wonderful tree, the Tree of Life blended with knowledge.” Lord Mahavira of Jainism once said, “Only that science is a great and the best of all sciences, the study of which frees man from all kinds of miseries.” I’m finding that the ahimsa or non-violent principals of Jainism offers humanity a vast treasure-trove of wisdom, for they are not Hallmark card generic platitudes in the sky, so to speak, but serious, specific, and detailed principals governing all aspects of one’s thoughts, words, and deeds during life in this human form. Rumi poetry, Psalms, the Shri Guru Granth are the hymnbooks of humanity filled with mystic-poetry, love and bhakti devotion. The Upanishads and Gita are revelations about the nature of reality, about spirit or Atman in the world of matter. One’s beliefs about “In the beginning” are really about The Ending of the Cycle of Time. The Gnostic gospels and the Anurag Sagar of Kabir illustrates the Power of Myth, how one’s understanding of “In the beginning...” affects our perceptions about where we are now in the cosmos, and maps out for us a path leading to liberation. Creation accounts are Hymns in praise of “the Pearl” of our soul, are all about finding our Original Nature again, retracing our steps back to “Eden” or “Paradise,” a home-coming of prodigal sons/daughters/souls in the Timeless Abode of the Beloved. Native American and other earth-based traditions specialize in wisdom about living in harmony with Mother Earth in a Kingdom of the Great Spirit spread out upon the Earth. Jainism’s specialty is in the area of ethics, cultivating peacefulness and tranquil existence. This tranquility of mind makes it possible to experience moksha, a reunion with the Supreme Soul, even as the still and focused lens of the telescope reveals the object in the heavens you are seeking to contemplate, or a pond on a day without much wind with nothing to ripple its surface, reflects the image of the sky. “Mahavira’s teaching about the Law of Karma was similar to the other saints of Indian traditions... Jain dharma recognizes nonviolence as the highest dharma (duty).” (Sant Sevi Ji Maharaj, chapter on Jainism in, The Harmony of All Religions, from a tradition of Masters or Satgurus operating in the Jainist community of Bihar District, India) Jainism teaches, “Live and let live,” kindness and reverence for all life. Jainism has a vast collection of ancient scriptures in several languages. Some of the oldest books in India are sacred Jainist texts. These teach great reverence for all forms of life, strict vegetarianism and even vegan-ism. Jainism is, above all, a religion of love and compassion, and it offers guidance about all aspects of life and living: right knowledge, right faith, and right conduct. As with Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, with Mahavira, attention is paid not only to deeds or actions, but the words and thoughts behind all actions.
Continued on page 47 Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 29
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the positive buttons, those marked love, serenity, happiness, truth, kindness, friendliness, understanding and tolerance Pray and thank God every day for peace Pray for the United Nations
the case, one might ask, even in groups that seek to cultivate a public image of peacefulness or are claiming to be offering teachings about inner and outer peace to humanity!? Sometimes there seems to be as much struggle for power, just as much gossip, propaganda, and swift-boating as one might expect in other types of organizations, corporations, or during political campaigns. “Swift-boating” is a pejorative term that surfaced during the last presidential election referring to some untruth, gossip or unfair characterization that is deliberately spread about someone, is used by one party against another to tarnish their image, timed just at the right moment for the purpose of achieving some hidden or perhaps a not-so-hidden objective.
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INNER TAPESTRY's Directory of Resources Holistic Practitioners, Products and Resources Each category contains practitioners from various states. co u n s e l in g & t h e rapy Maine
Counseling & Therapy ........................................ page 30 Creative Healing Arts ..................................... pages 30-31 Evolutionary Consciousness............................ pages 31-32 Healing In Nature ................................................... page 32 Holistic Healing Centers ......................................... page 32 Hypnotherapy .................................................. pages 32-33 Integrative Healing ........................................ pages 33-34 Life Mastery .................................................... pages 34-35 Living Spaces ......................................................... page 35 Meditation .............................................................. pages 35 Nurturing Foods ................................................... page 35 Psychic & Spiritual Mediumship .......................... page 36 Reflexology & Healing Massage ......................... page 36 Retreats ........................................................... pages 36 Sacred Space ...................................................... page 37 Salons & Spas ...................................................... page 37 Schools & Trainings .............................................. pages 37 Shamanic Healing ................................................ page 38
counseling & the rapy- cont. Patricia A. Burke, MSW, LCSW
Holistic Psychotherapy & Spiritual Development Work
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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
"When we are fully present to ourselves the light of who we are shines through and like a slow deep breath, fills the world with love." -PB
In over twenty-five years of experience I have merged a variety of psychological, sensate awareness, spiritual and creative practices into a process of deep awakening that can help you heal trauma, addictions & 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.
creative healing arts Psychotherapy with a conscious intention, can help us shift our focus from seeing life’s challenges as problems, to opportunities for spiritual growth. Exploring the dynamics of our
relationships can help us understand ourselves better, increase our capacity for intimacy and co-create fuller, more balanced lives. Mindful relationships, in this way, become spiritual life LCSW, LADC alchemy, transforming old wounds into inner gold. Together, we create a sacred space to find your inner wisdom where you can honor the truth of your authentic self. I specialize in group therapy for both men and women, as well as individual and couples work, for spiritually–psychologically–oriented adults. A free monthly electronic wellness newsletter, "The Heart of The Matter," can be found by visiting www.davidwardlcsw.com. For more information call (207) 846-3422, or,
David Ward
e-mail david@davidwardlcsw.com, 261 Main Street, Yarmouth, ME, 04096.
Connecticut 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.
Many Blessings For A Bountiful Harvest Season 30 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
31 creative healing arts–cont. Maine
creative healing arts–cont. Art Therapy & Shamanism
Movement as Healer
Gail Edgerly, RN, CTP
Movement as Healer is rooted in the premise that movement is the expression of life, and movement on all levels is fundamental to health.
When we experience the possibilities of our own unique and authentic movement, we release into freer movement, deepening our awareness, sense of connection, and state of well-being. The offerings of Movement as Healer are specific and collaborative. The Trager® Approach to movement involves a one-on-one practitioner/client relationship using touch and rhythm to assist in the experience of fluid, free and pleasurable movement. The 5Rhythms™ Movement Practice (developed by Gabrielle Roth) is an improvisational and expressive exploration of our uniquely personal movement following a map of rhythms inherent in every body and in everyday life. Sessions can be one-on-one, with a couple or in a class/workshop setting. The 5Rhythms™ can also be used in collaboration with the work of other teachers and facilitators, to expand and support the embodiment of the program's intention. I offer private sessions and classes in Portland and Kennebunk. FMI call (207) 761-3765 or visit www.movementashealer.com. For further information: www.gabrielleroth.com and www.Trager.com.
THE CREATIVE SPIRAL Helen Warren, M.S.Ed., M.F.A., facilitator Within each of us is the knowing of our oneness with the creative life force. In the silent, inner-directed
process of image-making as meditation, we reconnect with and are guided by our authentic selves, the ever-present creative and playful soul-child within who carries the imprint of this eternal oneness. The magical and profound process of Touch Drawing provides a unique portal. Retreats And Personal Journeys offer a safe and sacred space for experiencing deeper trust that fosters expanded intuition, imagination, and flexibility; reduction of stress, anxiety, depression and fear; and emotional and spiritual clarity that empowers us to live according to our soul’s blueprint. For those who aspire to live and experience life more deeply, creatively, and consciously! Visionary artist, art educator, facilitator and healer with over 40 years experience, Helen weaves together scholarship in the psychology of the creative process, intuitive insight, indigenous spirituality, and metaphysical wisdom in her facilitation. FMI or to schedule an appointment: www.creativespiral.net; (207) 829-6876; helen@creativespiral.net.
Creative Spiral Studio, North Yarmouth, ME 04097
Art therapy is a dynamic combination—powerful artistic creation with the insight of psychotherapy. Art therapy
and shamanic counselling will help you cultivate your strengths like a gardener tending plants. Together we can use imagination to design the garden. We can learn to tell flowers from weeds when your spirit is overgrown. Then we can plant seeds, nurture and water them and reap a new harvest. Everyone has an artist within. Our spirit and soul speak through the artwork. The art never lies; it gently reflects back those areas of life that need our attention, promoting positive change and healing on all levels. The best way to walk into your future is to create it! Board Certified Art Therapist, Licensed Clinical Counselor, Shamanic Practitioner with over thirty years experience. The Thirteenth Moon Center, "ART from the heART," (207) 589-3063. moonarts@gmail.com.
Surry Music Therapy Center: Alan Wittenberg M.A., CMT
Certified Music Therapist, (AMTA) American Music Therapy Association Music therapy opens new channels of communication and contact through the creative and interactive use of music towards self-expression and self-discovery. It goes beyond
words and emotionally, physically, and intellectually touches those with psychological issues and special needs. Music Therapy is a dynamic clinical, educational, developmental, and rehabilitative treatment approach. Alan specializes in autism spectrum disorders, emotional and behavioral issues, speech and sensory integrative delays; as well as work with the elderly and Alzheimer’s.The Surry Music Therapy Center is a unique facility in Maine offering individual and small group sessions, seminars, conferences, in-service training, and workshop programs throughout Maine. Contact Alan Wittenberg at (207) 667-1308, alan@surrymusictherapy.com, visit the website at www.surrymusictherapy.com for seminar and conference information.
evolutionary consciousness Maine The Autognomics Institute since 1992 Norm and Skye Hirst co-founders TAI provides basic Research, Consulting and Education on the emerging new paradigm of living processes and the organizing principles within the energy of life-itself. Using a
"wholistic" perspective for social and individual change, TAI offers in-depth examination of old problems with new possibilities as we draw on emerging discoveries about how the energy of life-itself works. Bring your inquiry and find effective action for yourself or your organization. Call for consultation to explore how we can help you during this consciousness shift. www.autognomics.blogspot.com or call (207) 236-6331.
We give thanks for unknown blessing already on their way. Di re cto r y of R es our c e s $375 for 1 year Print & Online Listing with An Active Link to your website! Includes 2.8 inch ad space, (approximately 130 words) Initial set-up fee $20
Online listing (without print copy) with an active link to your website. $100 plus an Initial set-up fee $20
Call 207-799-7995 or email: info@innertapestry.org Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 31
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Journey to the Authentic Self
Susan Bakaley Marshall, ATR-BC, LCPC
32 ev o l u t i o n ar y c o n s c io usness- c o n t .
holistic healing centers
Main e
Ann Hastings Conscious Channel to Support the Awakening of Self Do you want to know who you are? Vywamus,
a being of immense wisdom and compassion, channeled by Ann for many years, will help you achieve greater happiness and satisfaction in life through practicing the principles of reverence, fearlessness, integration, self-responsibility and unconditional acceptance. Ann is the author of The Mechanics of Reality: The Teachings of Vywamus and the co-founder of Reshaping The World, LLC where we offer a line of quality T-shirts bearing messages of acceptance, hope and unity that will support you energetically on your journey of self-discovery. Call Ann at (207) 625-8341 or email vywamus@vywamus.com to schedule a phone or in-person channeling session. Groups, classes and workshops are also available. Visit www.reshapingtheworld.com to order our transformational T-shirts.
healing in nature
Gardens of Atlantis Healing Arts Center Bountiful Harvests and Happy Thanksgiving to all! Our fruitful efforts reward in many ways.
We continue to support local people by selling products made by our neighbors. It's good for our economy to support each other within the community! Herbal Teas ~ Greenwood Herbals, Tarot Bags ~ Broake & Thumb, Fairy Houses & Garden Masks by Crystal, Photo Cards by Pauline, Smudge Fans by Beva, and more. Our instructors enhance our lives! Jane Fecteau ~ Advanced Practitioner Training in Intuitive Healing, Georgi Nelson ~ DNA Healing, Pam Loffredo ~ Reiki Training plus intriguing new classes, Darlene Chadbourne ~ Highway to the Heart, Re-Manifest Your Reality ~ Joseph Carringer. Learn the Flute ~ Steve Meagher. Drumming Circles with Grandmother Waynonaha, Tarot Readings, Massage & Spa Treatments for health and relaxing. Welcome to our community! Join in anytime! (207) 929-5088 www.gardensofatlantis.org.
M a i ne Ecotherapy Dennis Grannis-Phoenix Cyan Magenta Yellow Black
Turtle Journeys Ecotherapy and the nature-based practices offered by Dennis Grannis-Phoenix, MA are designed to support individuals in the challenging yet predictable life transitions experienced by everyone. Walking side-by-side with individuals or
group participants Dennis helps guide and mentor each person as they transition psychospiritually from one phase of human life to the next. This transitional movement is marked with co-created, earth-centered rites of passage which have largely been forgotten by our contemporary culture. Using nature-based ritual and ceremony helps to bring us into closer connection with nature, the more-than-human world, and the true Self contained within each of us. Sessions occur in natural and wilderness settings with office locations available as needed. For more information please call Dennis at (207) 273-1390 or email: dgp189@tds.net. Dennis has an MA in ecopsychological counseling from Prescott College and is a Registered Maine Guide.
Mountain Spirit Journeys Jamal Lee-Elkin
Mountain Spirit Journeys is dedicated to helping people become whole and vibrant human beings living in connection to the Earth and all of creation. Mountain
Spirit Journeys is owned and operated by Jamal Lee-Elkin who is a Shamanic Healer, Reiki Therapist and Registered Maine Guide. Jamal enjoys sharing his love of the outdoors with people and has been a guide for 12 years. He has been on his spiritual path for 17 years and has a passion for helping others. Shamanic Healing consists of ancient and powerful methods for restoring your spirit to wholeness and vitality. The Shamanic Practitioner uses the unlimited power and love of the universe to help you with problems of your spirit/soul. Jamal also offers Reiki treatments, which is a positive energy that promotes healing and balances the mind, body and spirit. Wilderness Trips and Expeditions are intended to re-awaken a spiritual connection between you and the Earth. These programs include the following: • Earth Based Wilderness Navigation • Rock & Ice Climbing • Wilderness Waterway Explorations • Mountaineering • Winter Survival Skills • Guided Walk With the Spirits • Wilderness Immersion Please see our website www.mountainspiritjourneys.com, email Jamal at jamal@mountainspiritjourneys.com or call (207) 461-4840 for more information. Brownfield, ME. 32 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
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.
hypnotherapy Maine 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. Contact: Elissa Garde-Joia at 207-338-1669, egardejoia1@verizon.net. Home visits available.
Individuality is only possible if it unfolds from wholeness David Bohm
33 hypnotherapy-cont. Hypno-Health ~ Hugh Sadlier, M.Ed., C.H. As a practicing certified Hypnotherapist since 1991 in Blue Hill and Portland, I have helped hundreds of people take control of their lives. Together we have resolved
over 150 different issues, ranging from abuse, anxiety, dejection and insomnia to smoking, sports performance, sexual dysfunction, weight concerns—and much more. As I guide people, they bring forward from their subconscious mind an awareness and understanding of “the roots of their problem.” They are then empowered to disconnect those roots and create a new, positive thought pattern, which becomes their permanent reality through repetition. Hypnotherapy is a comfortable, gentle, natural and powerful way to learn the techniques to heal one’s self. Hypnotherapy could be the answer for you. Call (207) 374-2344 (Blue Hill) or (207) 773-5200 (Portland), sadlier@hypno-health.net, www.hypno-health.net.
integrative healing–cont. Maine
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.
HypnoWave Hypnosis Training Center Ernest VanDenBossche, BCH, CI - Director Is it time for a change? Let hypnosis work for you in so
As WE change so does OUR world. With that stated,
Ron and Joan are continually growing to welcome in opportunities to support those interested in awakening to the Truth as being fully human. The process they bring forth is simple and supports the creation of everyone's uniqueness as harmony with Source – we call this "Quantum Energetic Harmonization." We are excited to offer new trainings we have taken with Sue and Aaron Singleton, founders of The Way to Balance and the EOL process. The EOL trainings blend with and expand their offerings of harmonizing the physical, emotional and energetic aspects of each being beautifully. If you are interested in exploring how we may be able to support you please visit www.ronandjoan.com, see our ad on page 24 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).
and other trainings available.
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.
The work of the individual still remains the spark that moves mankind forward. Igor Sikorsky
Kim Egberts Holistic & Cranial Sacral Therapist Transforming the stress in your life.
Professionally trained for the last ten years by the Upledger Institute. Work has included advanced
study in CranioSacral therapy including pediatrics and Somato-Emotional Release. Related course work has included advanced brain work. Offering Craniosacral Therapy, Lymph Drainage, and Neurological reorganization with intuitive healing and therapy from the heart. Integrative use of various techniques assists with a wide range of conditions, including: Migraines and headaches, chronic neck and back pain, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, learning disabilities, autism, cerebral palsy, central nervous system disorders, infantile disorders, feeding disorders and anxiety. For more information or for an appointment, please call 207-653-8263. Yarmouth ME.
Accepted & honored for who you are, just as you are, today. Encouraged & supported
to be who you are in your Highest Potential. You are invited to experience a new horizon of well-being with an energetic bodywork session custom-tailored to support you on your journey through life. Drawing on a Carney Brewer therapeutic background that includes Reiki Master status, massage & polarity therapies, classical music training, core shamanic practices & Young Living Essential Oils, I create a multi-sensory experience intentionally designed to induce a state of blissful relaxation. In this space of deep relaxation your body will naturally begin to re-align itself with its perfect state. Allow yourself to experience the wonders of feeling even better than you do today. Call (207) 450-8587 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 33
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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, CD's 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, CDs and DVDs for your business. Call: (207) 453-6133, www.hypnotraining.us. Private consulting
Ron and Joan
34 integrative healing–cont.
integrative healing–cont.
Kevin Pennell, Usui and Karuna® Reiki Master Teacher/Certified Hypnotherapist/Shamanic Practitioner and Vickie Cummings, Licensed and Nationally Certified Massage Therapist/Cranio Sacral Therapist/
SpiritWings CompassionateHealing
Roberta Barnes Reiki Shihan & Herbalist “Everyone is born with the right to be healthy and live with happiness, and the path of Reiki helps to fulfill that right.” -- Roberta Barnes, CHT, Gendai Reiki-ho
Usui & Karuna® Reiki Practitioner: Massage – Including Therapeutic
Massage – Seated Massage – Couples Massage and Outcalls available, Craniosacral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Reiki, Past Life Regression, Ancestral Healing Techniques 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 for a cross-cultural variety of enchanting gifts, supplies and accessories to aid your spiritual journey, including an exquisite selection of healing crystals and quartz crystal singing bowls. SpiritWings is conveniently located at 14 Main Street 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.
& Komyo Reiki Shihan (teacher), and Herbalist. Roberta's teaching and healing space, nestled in a wildlife habitat, is the perfect environment in which to receive a safe healing experience. Encased in harmonizing relaxation, begin your journey to return to your natural state of well-being by... learning Japanese styles of Usui Reiki Ryoho > experiencing one or more healing sessions > scheduling a personalized herb report > journeying into your past for healing or discovery > learning meditation you can do any place/any time > learning to connect with nature. Roberta's Usui Reiki Ryoho lineage has only three Reiki Shihans between Mikao Usui, the founder, and her. Visit http://www.naturalhealinglearning.com or call today (207) 445-5671.
life mastery your brain with eegmaine. Bridgeside Counseling Train A parent’s quote, “When our and Neurofeedback daughter was 16 we discovered
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neurofeedback. She had 14 sessions before end-of-the-year exams and she Elizabeth Millett, NCC, LCPC managed to pass her exams, which was a confidence booster for her.” Neurofeedback can be used for many issues, including attention issues, anxiety, depression, autistic spectrum, brain injury, peak performance and much more. Neurofeedback addresses the problems of brain regulation by allowing the brain to function better. It is training in self-regulation. Neurofeedback is the direct training of the brain, increasing its function, creating greater control and stability. By using computers and electrodes, brain waves can be observed moment-to-moment on a computer screen. Rewards and inhibits are set to optimize brain functioning, the brain is then rewarded for changing its own activity to more appropriate patterns. This is a gradual learning process, which can be applied to any aspect of brain function that can be measured. I have seen excellent results with neurofeedback. Visit my website, www.eegmaine.com, for other services that are available and complimentary to training your brain, such as proshi, HEG and individual counseling. Call or email for a free consultation (207) 767-0117 or emillet2@gmail.com.
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.
Dr. Adi Philpott
TAROTWORKS Jeanne Fiorini
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 Technique), 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.
A tarot reading can be 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. Jeanne Fiorini is a Tarot practitioner and teacher with 16 years experience. She has training in both mediation and psychosynthesis counseling, bringing practical guidance and useful information to all her readings. Jeanne is currently a contributing columnist for the American Tarot Association's newsletter www.ata-tarot. com/reflections. For more information about all the TarotWorks offerings, visit www.tarotworks.com or phone Jeanne at (207) 799-8648.
A community needs a soul if it is to become a true home for human beings. You, the people must give it this soul. Pope John Paul II 34 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
35 life mastery–cont.
meditation Maine
Words for the Wise Anne Smith, M.A. Certified Coach, Energy Medicine Practitioner: TYLEM, IET, Reiki Tired of settling for less than you want? Ready to free yourself of old, self-
defeating patterns and habits? Eager to create the life you know you deserve to live? You can achieve this and more through a unique blending of Life Coaching and Energy Medicine Therapies. I support, guide and assist you in releasing what has been holding you back from experiencing your true potential. I empower you to clarify your goals and take steps to create the authentic life you truly want and deserve. In my client's words: "Sessions removed deeply entrenched thoughts, feelings, emotions that were creating pain in my life and body. The experience has been effortless and profound. Anne is committed to being on your search 'with you'. Her patience, keen insight, and gentle nature make you want to go deeper into your soul's internal dialogue." I also share techniques and tools for you to use in your personal growth and self-care as you take the action steps you choose to reach your goals and create your own life. I invite
Learn Primordial Sound Meditation Learn the timeless practice of Primordial Sound Meditation, an easily learned, mantra-based meditation technique taught by Chopra Center certified instructor Brent Krizo. The Primordial
Sound Meditation program was developed by world-renowned doctors and authors Deepak Chopra, MD and David Simon, MD based upon the ancient wisdom traditions of India. Learn how meditation can reduce the stress in your life and help you to live a happier, healthier and more meaningful life. Brent also hosts group meditations for meditators of all practices, beginners welcomed! Brent can come to you or you can come to Belgrade on the shores of Great Pond. Conscious-based Life Coaching is also available. Call Brent at (207) 512-5844 to find out about the next free introduction class into meditation, or visit www.centeredself.net for more information.
you to call (207) 462-8757, or email wordsftwise@gmail.com, to schedule your complimentary session and /or receive more information. Convenient phone sessions, as well as in-person sessions available.
Massachusetts
Patti Greco ~ Intuitive Counsel for Lightworkers in Motion
Heart-breaking and magical. That is your Soul Story and Patti Greco is your psychic storyteller. Her spiritual consultations tap multi-layered psychic writing, clairvoyant art, & psychic photography to shed light on your questions of the heart. Greco Writing offers the following visionary services through phone consult or email readings: The Soul Story, The Akashic Records (Past Life Reading), The Multidimensional Card Reading, The Cameo, Intuitive Dream Analysis, The Faerie (devic) reading, Intuitive Life Coaching & more. No matter what chapter you find yourself in, your Soul Story is a tool for understanding your key role in the Universe, and empowering your life’s work and relationships. Patti has worked as a professional clairvoyant for clients in all walks of life since 1985 (see her full Clairvoyant Profile on soul-stories. net). By appointment. MC/VISA accepted. Contact Patti Greco at (978) 448-5018, grecowriting@verizon.net. www.soul-stories.net.
living spaces Connecticut
Carole Rothschild Personal Shopper
As an experienced image consultant and professional organizer, Carole Rothschild offers her expertise in image consulting, wardrobe consulting, home organizing, staging, paper management, time management, budget management and organizational skills teaching. What makes her company,
Carole Rothschild Personal Shopper, so distinctive is the individual approach. Carole provides consulting and organizing services for adults and students. Using understanding, encouragement and teaching techniques, Carole helps her clients reduce stress and organize their home, wardrobe or business. She is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO), the Connecticut NAPO chapter and the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce. To start living your life to the fullest, call (860) 523-0447, email: carole@carolerothschild.com or visit www.carolerothschild.com.
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 Shabada Yoga, in the lineage of Tulsi Sahib.
For More Information call (207) 368-5866, or email: James@SpiritualAwakeningRadio.com, Website: www.Myspace.com/Santmat_Mystic.
nurturing foods Maine
CarynTreister~Nutrition Made Simple Independent Reliv Distributor, AEA, certified fitness instructor with a nutrition background Do you want to feel better? Are you confused about
vitamins and how much to take? With Reliv Nutritional Supplements the formulas have been scientifically formulated for you. It’s easy, you don’t need to play chemist! My goal is to help you be successful in reaching the wellness level you want. I’ve been assisting people with Reliv for seven years and helping people with “fitness wellness” for almost twenty years. They go hand-in-hand… so nutrition became a real interest to me. I quickly learned most people were not getting enough nutrients in their food and was thrilled when I found Reliv. The Reliv products taste good, and are readily absorbed by the body for improved efficacy. The synergistic blend of nutrients in each Reliv shake provides maximum benefit by ensuring that each nutrient works to its full potential. The best part is that they are so simple to take; and you will receive my personal support to make sure you get results! I would be privileged to help you on your quest to better health…. why not change your life today? Please call (207) 767-3085, email: caryn@maine.rr.com, www.reliv.com.
Open your eyes, look within. Are you satisfied with the life you are living.
Bob Marley
Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 35
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Patti Greco acts as Intuitive Counsel, Soul Coach, and Catalyst to help her clients across the US find their own life invitations. Authentic. Meaningful.
Sant Mat Radhaswami, The Path of the Masters
36 psychic & spiritual mediumship
retreats
Maine PsychicMediumship, Hypnotherapy
Maine
Bonnie Lee Gibson is a professional Psychic Medium, Hypnotherapist, Registered Counselor, Reiki Master, healer, teacher and lecturer with thirty years of experience. She
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.
reflexology & healing massage
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.
Nurture Through Nature
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
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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
Nurture Through Nature is celebrating its 10th season offering transformative women's holistic retreats through weekend workshops and holistic canoe trips.
We weave mind~body~spirit experiences through guided meditation circles, gentle yoga, mindfulness practices and The Work Pleasant Mountain, Denmark of Byron Katie. Our unique offerings and reflective space together with professionally guided outdoor pursuits deepens connections to the living earth and our inner selves. Jen Deraspe, owner, is a Registered Maine Guide, Certified Yoga Instructor, Facilitator of The Work of Byron Katie and Community Faculty member of True North, Maine's Center for Functional Medicine and the Healing Arts. Our solar-powered green retreat Let Us Guide You Home...
is located on Pleasant Mountain, in the heart of Maine's western mountains, just over an hour from Portland, Freeport and Lewiston, Maine. (207) 452-2929, or www.ntnretreats.com, ntnretreat@yahoo.com. Contact
for your custom getaway, eco-cabin rental or to join a scheduled retreat.
Lynn call (207) 767-5776 or 207-318-0129, or visit www.handsonfeet.net.
Jennifer Bourget, RN, LMT, Reiki II Practitioner Jennifer Bourget holds a BS degree in nursing since 1983, is a Licensed Massage Therapist and Reiki II Practitioner. Jennifer works from a belief that there is a
connectedness between all living things and it is through this relationship that we are able to find healing, harmony and balance. You are invited to experience deep relaxation and peace in a beautiful, energetically clear space. Choose from massage therapy, including pregnancy massage, Reiki, aromatherapy, Raindrop Technique, or a combination of therapies. Thirty-, sixty- and ninety-minute sessions available. Guigen Qigong instruction and on-site chair massage also available. Located in a lovely Victorian at 251 Main Street in Yarmouth, Maine. Sessions by appointment weekdays and Saturday. Contact (207) 846-4704 or (207) 841-3053, jbourget0261@hotmail.com. Or visit www. jenniferbourget.massagetherapy.com
Sewall House Yoga Retreat Enjoy yoga twice daily, meditation, massage, sauna and healthy home-cooked vegetarian cuisine. Near pristine lakes
and Baxter State Park, hike, bike, swim, canoe, kayak or simply porch sit! Five days suggested, weekends, shorter and longer stays arranged. Step back into time in the comfort of this bed and breakfast style retreat listed in the National Registry of Historic Places. Nature guide William Sewall shared the healing attributes of nature with a young Theodore Roosevelt, who restored his health from life threatening asthma here. The tradition continues since 1997 with William Sewall's great granddaughter, yoga instructor Donna Davidge, with over 25 years experience in the healing arts, and her Swedish husband, musician and chef Kent Bonham. Experience the friendly hospitality Sewall House has always offered. Sewall House Yoga Retreat Island Falls, Maine www.sewallhouse.com. (888) 235-2395 July 3 – Columbus Day.
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 Oct/Nov 2008
37 sacred space
schools & trainings Maine 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.
or visit: www.mahoosucmountainlodge.com.
salons & spas Maine
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.
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.
Ravens’ Crossing — Come find some Raven’s Crossing Appleton, Maine
rural comfort and relaxation in our woodfired sauna and/or therapeutic hot tub.
Deep tissue, Swedish, and myofascial-release massage available by licensed massage therapist. Rustic retreat cabin can sleep two. Available by appointment in private setting. Trails to walk, ride horses, or X-country ski. Space for small gatherings. Please call Lori Cressler at
(207) 845-2304 or visit www.ravens-crossing.com.
Stephanie is honored to bring her artistry and 25 years of experience to Meadow Wind.
She has traveled the world motivated by multi-cultural curiosity to explore the many truths, in all their aspects, that make our world HAIR BEAUTY GRACE beautiful. She happily cultivates this curiosity by assisting people to recognize the innate beauty that resides within each-and-every one. By creating beauty, Stephanie encourages people to take care of themselves, the environment in which they live, and the things they love. Her belief is that beauty is harmony and she gracefully communicates the inseparable unity between exterior and interior beauty. The intention that resides in her heart is soulfully communicated through her hands. Providing a nurturing environment Stephanie assists her clients in the decision making process regarding the expression and enhancement of their own beauty. Call to schedule a consultation or appointment, and you will understand why Stephanie has been embraced by Meadow Wind Center for Holistic Arts. Stephanie’s custom designed jewelry and organic products are some of the many treasures at Roots! Hours By Appointment (207) 838-9535, 100 Gray Rd., Falmouth, Me.
Chaplaincy Institute of Maine
Interfaith Spiritual Growth and Ordination World Religions, Art as Meditation, Creation Spirituality, Interfaith Worship
First Year: The Way of Contemplation • Second Year: The Way of Action The next two-year program begins September 2009
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
Deadlines for the Directory of Resources To Reserve space
November 1st
For all graphic and text material
November 5th
Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 37
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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, 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
Maine
38 shamanic healing
shamanic healing-cont.
Maine
Pacha Works
Holding New Possibilities.
Spirit Passages
Working with traditional shamanistic practices for healing.
Allie Knowlton, MSW, DCSW & Evelyn Rysdyk 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 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.
Transform your body, heal your soul and change the way you live and die with the ancient healing techniques of the South American Medicine people. The core of
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healing occurs in the energetic or Luminous Energy Field; this is the blueprint for the physical body, and an archive of our physical and emotional strengths and wounding. Illuminating this field transforms these wounds into sources of knowledge and power. The loss, pain and sorrow may remain as a memory but they no longer define who we are; we realize that we are not our stories. The Illumination Process is powerful, efficient, effective transformation. In training with Alberto Villoldo, Ph.D. Appointments in Brunswick (207) 729-7270, deb@midgette.org.
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 April 2009. 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."
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-renown 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.
Together we ARE creating miracles !
The Inner Tapestry Yoga, T'ai Chi, Aikido & Meditation Directory
\
is an excellent resource for getting the word out for your classes & workshops!
If you and your group or school hold classes and workshops and would like to be listed in this Directory,
please call: (207) 799-7995 or Email: info@innertapestry.org. Six issues in print costs $160 for 35 words Online placement in the Directory of Resources with a direct link to your website for an additional $75.
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38 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
39
Yoga, T'ai Chi, Aikido & Meditation Practitioners Directory GLASTONBURY, CT 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.
BANGOR, ME The Fountain Yoga Studio & Therapeutics All levels welcome. Ongoing classes include: Gentle, Flow, Privates, Yoga for Pregnancy and Yoga for Heart Health. For schedule and more information contact: Teri at (207) 323-2024 or Laura at (207) 542-4103, 38 Fountain St. Bangor, www.fountainyoga.com.
BOOTHBAY HARBOR, ME
CAMDEN, ME Open Door Yoga Center Offering a wide variety of Yoga classes, 5 Rhythm Ecstatic Dance, Feldenkrais Movement, Mindfulness Meditation, Shamanic Drumming, T'ai Chi and Tantra Workshops. Morning, evening and weekend classes for all ages and levels. Conveniently located less than 3 miles from the center of Camden. Call for brochure or info: (207) 236-8971.
FALMOUTH, ME Meadow Wind Center for Holistic Arts Offering several styles and levels of yoga from beginner to power yoga. Call (207) 878-3899 for class schedule or go to www.meadowwind.org for more information. 100 Gray Road, Falmouth, ME.
GORHAM, ME Holistic Pathways Yoga & Healing Center All abilities/ages. Beginner, Continuing, Intermediate, Toning & Sculpting, Pregnancy Yoga, Couples Pregnancy Yoga, Mommy & Me (infants), Yoga for Tweens and Teens, Yoga for Tots. Private sessions available. Postures, breathwork, meditation and relaxation. (207) 839-7192. www.holisticpathways.com.
NORTH YARMOUTH, ME Turning Light Yoga & Meditation Center Classes in Hatha Yoga, Meditation and Psychological & Spiritual Development. Free Monthly Satsang. Personal, group and corporate programs available. Director Darcy Cunningham certified by Institute of the Himalayan Tradition and Yoga Alliance. (207) 829-2700, www.TurningLight.org.
PORTLAND, ME Kundalini Community Yoga Kundalini, Hatha, Yo-gung, Beginners, Intermediate, Family Yoga, Workshops. Groups. Private. Sat Nam Rasayan Healing, Kundalini class includes Kriya, breath, mantra, meditation, relaxation. Creative pricing. Try Kundalini Yoga–the Yoga of Awareness. 52 Pine St., (207) 615-5405, www.kcyoga.net.
Aikido of Maine Aikido: "The Art of Peace" a martial art for self-defense and spiritual development. Connecting movement, breath and energy through partner practice. Seeking harmony from conflict. Creating an alert mind, calm body and enhanced health and awareness. Daily classes: beginners, adults & children. Flexible schedules, (207) 879-9207, 226 Anderson St., Portland, www.aikidoofmaine.com. 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 St., Portland. (207) 871-8274, www.wholeheartyoga.com or email: info@wholeheartyoga.com. Portland T'ai Chi School Traditional Yang Style T'ai Chi classes at the Portland New Church Wednesdays 6:00pm-7:00pm. White Crane Qi Gong is taught to develop internal energy. The focus is on developing a healthy body and emotional being. (207) 272-8286, www.portlandtaichi.org.
ROCKLAND, ME ShivaShakti School of Yoga Yoga classes from gentle to vigorous. All ages and abilities. A Yoga Alliance registered school offering workshops and 200-hour yoga teacher trainings. Massage and bodywork available. (207) 785-5003, www.ShivaShaktiYogaSchool.com.
SEACOAST REGION ChildLight YogaÂŽ Yoga Programs for Children and the Adults Who Love Them. Sharing the amazing gifts of yoga with babies, toddlers, children, families and classroom teachers in Southern ME, NH, and MA. Also offering the ChildLight Yoga Teacher Training, Summer Camps, Birthday Parties, Y.E.S (Yoga Education in Schools) Residency Programs, Tools for Teachers Workshops, and more. Please visit: www.childlightyoga.com or (603)-781-3323.
YARMOUTH, ME Sanctuary Holistic Health & Yoga Center Spacious & beautiful newly built studio. Professional instruction in KRIPALU & HATHA YOGA and MEDITATION. Now also PILATES and QI GONG! Group & private classes, all levels: youth, teens, adults. See website for schedule. (207) 846-1162, www.sanctuaryhhyc.com.
A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality John Lennon
Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 39
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The Yoga Firm Studio Join our ongoing movement inspired Beginning and Flow Yoga Classes to restore the supple nature of your body and mind. Also offering Shiatsu/Acupressure bodywork. For schedule and info please contact Romee May, (207) 380-6975, 137 Townsend Ave., www.yogafirmstudio.com.
PORTLAND, ME - continued
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Calendar and Classified GuidelinesAnd Advertising Rates Are Located on Page 42
H eart V isions
October 26th-31st 2008 Assisi Pilgrimage - Journeying Into Love
Join award-winning author Megan Don on this sacred pilgrimage. See www.mysticpeace.com for more details or email: clarepilgrimage@yahoo.com.
March 8th-15th, 2009 Holistic Yoga and Meditation Eco-Retreat ~
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U.S. Virgin Island’s renowned eco-resort Maho Bay, St. John, includes eco-tent accommodations, daily Hatha Yoga, meditation circles, sailing, snorkeling, two group walks. Programs in am and pm to allow free time. $1,110 double, $978 triple. FMI: Jen Deraspe, www.ntnretreats.ccom or (207) 452-2929.
October~Connecticut October 10th–14th ACCESS Energy Transformation Classes by Mark Moen http://www.accessconsciousness.com/fac_detail.asp?mid=121 ACCESS BARS Class - October 10th, 4:30pm-10:00pm $200 ACCESS Foundation Class - October 11th–12th, 9:30am-5:30pm $600 ACCESS Level 1 Class - October 13th–14th, 9:30am–5:30pm $600 ACCESS assists you in eliminating the trauma, drama, upset and intrigue from your life, allowing you to begin to generate your life the way you would like it to be. Held at Balance 4 Optimal Health, 5 Foxon Rd (Rte 80), North Branford, CT. To register contact Gail Frey at (203) 494-4505.
October 11th & 12th Silva UltraMind ESP System, Southington, CT www.silvamethodct.com, (860) 674-1009.
October 18th-19th Healing Yourself The Cosmic Way with CAROL ANTHONY & HANNA MOOG. Improve your health & vitality with these groundbreaking techniques based on the I-Ching. For info: (203) 266-4211, www.newenglandfengshui.com.
October ~Maine September 30th-December 9th, Tuesdays, 7:00pm-8:30pm Guided Meditation with Crystal Bowls and voice. Register in advance & for more info: www.kaleecoombs.com, (415) 283-7781.
October 1st-December 10th, Wednesdays, 7:00pm-8:30pm Singing and Music Making for beginners. Register in advance & for more info: www.kaleecoombs.com, (415) 2837781.
October 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd, 6:00pm-8:00pm Daianshin Outward Meditation course. Anyone meditating that would like to explore active/outward, while retaining peace and tranquility. For more details and to register call (207) 445-5671 today or visit www.naturalhealinglearning.com.
Please send your formatted Calendar and Classified listings to info@innertapestry.org 40 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
October 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th and November 11/5, 7:00 to 9:00 pm The Light of Gnosis - Public Lecture Series - Free and Open to All. Suite 601 (6th floor conference room) The Congress Building 142 High St. Portland, ME. (Building's doors close at 7:00, please arrive prior to.) The Maine Gnosis Center Info: Samuel and Sophie Rodriguez, (207) 228-5065 GnosisME@maine.rr.com www.mainegnosiscenter.org.
October 3rd-5th Homecoming: A Women’s Retreat Come home to yourself for a three-day retreat on a beautiful lake in the fresh air of Maine. Encircle yourself with nature, like-minded women and a diverse selection of workshops and gatherings. Learn More & Register at www.SheChanges.com/ retreats.html.
October 3rd-7th ACCESS Energy Transformation Classes by Mark Moen www.accessconsciouness.com/fac_detail.asp?mid=121 ACCESS BARS Class - October 3rd, 4:30pm-10:00pm $200 ACCESS Foundation Class - October 4th-5th, 9:30am-5:30pm $600 ACCESS Level 1 Class - October 6th-7th, 9:30am-5:30pm $600 ACCESS assists you in eliminating the trauma, drama, upset and intrigue from your life, allowing you to begin to generate your life the way you would like it to be. Meadow Wind Center for Holistic Arts, 100 Gray Rd., Falmouth, ME. Register with Natasha Suleiman at (207) 232-4803.
October 4th, 18th, 25th, 10:00am-2:00pm The Secret level In Gendai Reiki-ho is offered by Roberta R. Barnes. Three classes are required for this level; a $50 reduction in the fee is to help with gas costs. Shinpiden was called the Secret Level in Japan. You go deep into the spiritual practice Usui-Sensei founded. You can see that the Gainen reflects King Solomon’s words "As a man thinks in his heart, so is he", and transcend symbols and such. A RM/T from TX said, “Your love of Reiki and knowledge is clear. How do I make Reiki more spiritual?” My answer was the Shinpiden level. If you have completed levels one and two, in any style of Reiki call (207) 445-5671 or visit www.naturalhealinglearning.com.
October 5th & 12th, 10:00am-4:30pm Gendai ReikiHo Shoden powerful entrance to Modern Reiki Method for Healing taught by Roberta R. Barnes with a close lineage to Mikao Usui. $30 travel cost discount is offered. Call (207) 445-5671 today or visit www.naturalhealinglearning.com.
October 10th-12th Recharge, Regroup, Reflect: A Fall Foliage Retreat for Women 1.6 CEU's Available through USM's Center for Continuing Education, Denmark, Maine, www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929
October~Massachusetts October 24th-26th Trauma First Aide Basic TFA October 24th-25th, Advanced TFA October 26th. TFA teaches skills to reduce the symptoms of Acute Traumatic Stress in urgent situations. 13 CEUs, social workers, nurses, counselors, acupuncturists & EMTs. FMI: wwwTraumaFirstAide.com.
October~NewHsmpshire October 24th-26th, 9:00am-6:00pm Positional Release Techniques and Applied Anatomy for Muscles Instructor: Denise Deig, author of Positional Release Techniques from a Dynamic Systems Perspective, Merrill Farm Resort and Conference Center, North Conway, NH. 24 hours CEU’s NCBTMB. FMI and to register contact Marlena O’Hagan-Buzzell (207) 647-3521 (H), (207) 212-7721 (C), kmbuzzell@roadrunner. com, early registration discount/limited space available.
November~Connecticut November 8th-9th Feng Shui Fundamentals Workshop Series begins in Woodbury, CT. Certificate Program in Feng Shui Studies available. For info or brochure: The New England School of Feng Shui, (203) 266-4211, www.newenglandfengshui.com.
November 22nd, 10:00am-2:00pm Zen Yoga for Massage Therapists (NCBTMB Approved Provider) - New Haven, CT Massage therapist can received 4 CE Credits for attending this seminar. Learn the fundamental practice of Zen Yoga through breathing, movement, stretching and meditation. Non-massage therapists welcome. Instructor Aaron Hoopes, founder of Zen Yoga. Registration: breathe@artofzenyoga.com or (860) 805-6551.
November ~Maine November 1st Holistic Mystic Fair at the American Legion Post 205, Eastern Ave., Augusta, Maine, 10:00am-4:00pm, Entrance Fee $5, individual services priced separately, for more information contact Mary Alderman (207) 446-7868. Space is limited but accepting vendors— contact Mary for an application.
November 1st and 2nd, 9:30am-3:30pm Harvesting Soul Seeds
October 17th-19th Trauma First Aide Basic TFA October 17th-18th, Advanced TFA October19th. TFA teaches skills to reduce the symptoms of Acute Traumatic Stress in urgent situations. 13 CEUs, social workers, nurses, counselors, acupuncturists & EMTs. FMI: wwwTraumaFirstAide.com.
October 19th, Sunday Didgeridoo Master, Joseph Carringer "RE-MANIFEST YOUR REALITY" at Gardens of Atlantis, 1:30pm-3:00pm, $45 (207) 929-5088 www.gardensofatlantis.org.
October 25th-26th 6th BiAnnual Wellness Weekend at Mahoosuc. Practitioners available throughout the weekend for sessions, Apache Holy Woman for spiritual counseling, massage therapist, foot reflexologist. Potluck supper and speaker Saturday night. Beautiful setting at Mahoosuc Mountain Lodge (www.mahoosucmountainlodge.com) in Newry. FMI: (207) 824-2073.
Calendar/Classified Submission Deadline for the December/January Issue is
November 5th
Visual expression as portal to your soul’s wisdom. Touch Drawing and other media. Helen Warren, MFA, MS, facilitator. Creative Spiral Studio, North Yarmouth. www.creativespiral. net; (207) 829-6876.
November 1st, 8th, & 15th, 12:00pm-4:00pm Gendai ReikiHo Shoden powerful entrance to Modern Reiki Method for Healing taught by Roberta R. Barnes with a close lineage to Mikao Usui. $30 travel cost discount is offered. Call (207) 445-5671 today or visit www.naturalhealinglearning.com. November 8th-9th Living a Peaceful Life ~ A Co-ed Holistic Retreat Denmark, Maine, www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929, $250. November 22nd & 23rd Flower of Life Workshop Learn to activate and program your vehicle for consciousness (lightbody), connect to your Higher Self, clear cellular memory to open your heart and much more. Belgrade Village, Maine. FMI call FOL veteran facilitators Phoenix or Leon @ (928) 204-5589 or e-mail: sedonaheartwalk@yahoo.com visit: www.sedonaheartwalk.com.
Visit www.innertapestry.org for updated information on calendar listings
41
November~Massachusetts November 2nd, 2:00pm-3:30pm Zen Yoga & 5 Element Healing Breath Workshop East Hampton, MA, Aaron Hoopes and Rita Lang of Zen Yoga will present this profoundly powerful method for self-healing connecting the 5 Elements to the 5 Yin organs of the body by using special breathing techniques. Beginners Welcome. Mobius Healing Center, 116 Pleasant St. Suite 216, Eastworks Building, Easthampton, MA 01027 (413) 883-5222.
November 22nd & 23rd Silva UltraMind ESP System, Newton, MA. www.silvamethodct.com, (860) 674-1009.
November ~Vermont November 14th & 15th Peaceful Spirit - Traditional Lakota Sweatlodge - Vershire, VT Limited spaces available for both the Friday evening and Saturday morning sweatlodges conducted in the traditional Lakota manner. breathe@artofzenyoga.com.
Ongoing~Connecticut Morning Zen Yoga in New Haven - 7:30am Wednesdays Rita Lang teaches a gentle and energizing Zen Yoga class Wednesday mornings at Revive Wellness Center, 867 Whalley Ave., New Haven, CT 06515, (203) 640-9276 or rita@artofzenyoga.com.
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.
Earthrest Discussion Series
Developing your Personal Healing Gifts
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.
and Training to Become a Medical Intuitive, ongoing classes at Forest Circles, center for community and healing, Topsham, ME. www.forestcircles.com.
Sundays: Meditations for Peace
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.
Without inner peace, outer peace is impossible. Start the week off right by learning to increase and maintain a happy, positive mind. Everyone is welcome to join us for an inspirational talk, special prayers, and meditation guiding us to compassion and wisdom. 10:00am–11:15am $10/class or free for members. FMI: Karen Luse (207) 775-3597, kiluse@verizon.net.
Harrison D. Barrett Spiritualist Church, 514 Broadway, Bangor, beside Coldwell Banker Realty, Sunday Services, 10:00 am; Gallery Readings 2nd Friday of every month at 7:00 pm $10, Medium's Day 2nd Saturday of every month 10:00 am to 2:00 pm $15 for 15-minute reading. FMI visit www.hdbspiritualistchurch.org or call (207) 848-2273 or (207) 989-7266.
The Nia Technique Find joy in your body! Barefoot movement blending martial arts, dance and yoga. South Portland Community Center. Monday/Wednesday 6:00pm and Saturday 10:00am. Drop-ins welcome. Maggie Bokor, www.maggiestyle.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) 785-5003 or visit www.ShivaShaktiYogaSchool.com.
Yoga Class in Windham Mondays 10:00am-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.
Authentic Movement Dance at Bath Dance Works
Holistic Moms Network
Inner Peace Retreat Weekends:
Hartford County chapter of a non-profit support and discussion network for moms with an interest in natural, holistic and alternative health and parenting. or visit www.holisticmoms.org.
Revitalize, Renew, Restore balance and inner peace to your Body ~ Mind ~ Spirit. Belfast: Every third weekend of each month. www.myenergyinmotion.com, (207) 338-5168.
Have you experienced sexual assault or incest?
Spiritual Horizons Maine
We are Survivors of Incest Anonymous. We meet every Monday evening in Hartford, CT. Call Mae at (860) 236-1770 or email HartfordCT@sianyc.org.
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
Meets every other Tuesday at 7:00pm, 75 State Street, Portland. Alternate weeks group on “A Course of 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.
Friday Gallery Readings ~ Fourth Friday each month Join us at the Portland Spiritualist Church, 719 Main St., Westbrook for an evening of messages from the spirit, 7:00pm, $10.00 event. FMI call (207) 655-6673.
Weekly Psychic Development and Awareness Classes Fridays, at the Portland Spiritualist Church, 719 Main St., Westbrook, Classes start at 7:30pm FMI: call (207) 655-6673.
The Path of Celtic Buddhism 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.
Alternative Therapy Workshops For businesses, organizations, groups, schools. Educational and entertaining. Cost and length varies per subject. For brochure call Kate Boyer: (207) 858-5899 or email: kate@snigglebeach.com.
Science Of Spirituality is sponsoring a satsang. Last Sunday of every month 1:00pm at Hartland Library. SOS is under the leadership of Sant Rajinder Singh Jyoti meditation. Free www.sos.org, www.newengsos.org, (207) 938-3928.
"Yokids" Yoga Ed Tools for Teachers Workshops 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.
Thank God It's Grace: Women in God, Women in Good 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.
The Birth House 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.
Reiki: Healing Hands Offers classes, Reiki Therapy sessions, and Monthly Clinic every 2nd Sunday of the month at United Methodist Church, West Kennebunk. FMI call Pauline Wilson, BA, CRM (207) 985-3575.
Thirteen Moons, Millinocket, FREE Wednesdays, 6:00pm: Live & Learn introductory discussions, topics change weekly. Thursdays, 6:00pm, Coffeehouse: local talent, Penobscot Avenue, (207) 723-5313, thirteen.moons@beeline-online.net, www.thirteenmoons.net.
Wavelengths Hypnotherapy ongoing classes:
Ottercreek Hall, Bar Harbor, ME, Wednesdays 10:00am. All Ages, (207) 288-0974, ask for Liz.
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.
Portland T'ai Chi School
Real-ize Your Integral Potentials
hosts: "The New Moon Rituals" with chief Oscar Mokeme and "Full Moon Drumming Circle" with Drum Connection Maine, www.forestcircles.com.
Traditional Yang Style T'ai Chi classes at the Portland New Church. Wednesdays 6:00pm-7:00pm. White Crane QiGong is taught to develop internal energy. The focus is on developing a healthy body and emotional being. (207) 272-8286, www.portlandtaichi.org.
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.
Tuesday Buddhist Meditation
Energize! A holistic approach to performance
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.
On g oi ng ~ M aine "Forest Circles," center for community and healing
Raja Yoga
We practice Dzogchen Meditation; Natural Love and Awareness; and Natural Compassion and Awareness in the lineage of Lama Surya Das. 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.
Energy balancing sessions for artists, actors, and performers, recover your highest creative self. Post-performance rebalancing. $70 ($55 students) Holistic Pathways, Gorham, (207) 839-9819 www.starlightacting.org.
Belfast: Free Adult Reiki Clinics
Ongoing course for women, awareness & prevention skills, verbal self-defense & empowerment, basic self-defense techniques. (207) 266-4902, Trenton Family Karate, Trenton/Ellsworth area.
Last Wednesday of month (February – June) from 3:00pm5:00pm WCGH, 118 Northport Avenue, Room 205, Belfast. FMI call Cindy Swan, M.Ed., LMT at (207) 930-2549.
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.
Our thanks to the many who support our community.
The Womanly Art of Self Defense and Empowerment
Beautiful Mountain views in glass studio. Classes ongoing, Monday-Thursday, mornings/evenings, many styles taught. Iyengar, vinyasa, restorative, seniors (chair), yogilates, nidra and meditation. Yoga Alliance Certified FMI: Leslee (207) 625-4756.
Massage, Yoga, Reiki, Labyrinth Walks Inner Harmony in Portland’s West End serves body, mind and spirit to assist you on your path of wellness. www.FindInnerHarmony.com (207) 772-1509.
Kittery, ME: Rawfood Potlucks, 5:00pm
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.
Continued on page 42 More exciting events and classified listings Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 41
Cyan Magenta Yellow Black
Individual & Group Reiki Sessions, Reiki Shares & Classes. Please call Carleen, RMT at (860) 642-7410 for more information.
First and third Saturdays of the month, 10:00am-1:00pm, October 4th & 18th, November 1st & 15th suggested donation $10, no experience is necessary. FMI: call (207) 725-9997 or email dancingfewl@pobox.com.
Ongoing Monthly Group Reiki Sessions
Hatha Yoga, Meditation, Satsang
42 Reiki Works offers all levels of Reiki
The Rose Cottage
Classes, sessions and free clinics. For schedule please contact Andrea Smith, B.S. Rehabilitation at reikiworks@beeline-online.net (207) 474-9962.
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.
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.
SpiritWings–Workshops, Reiki Classes in Bethel ME
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.
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.
Sacred Circle Dance
Doula tea, meet with doulas in person
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.
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.
Aikido of Maine Portland
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
Short-term Solutions-oriented Couples & Family Work
Aikido for Women classes, Wednesday and Friday a.m. classes. Daily beginner’s classes and youth programs. www.aikidoofmaine.com (207) 879-9207.
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.
Ongoing Yoga Classes, Vacations & Retreats
Wise Women Daughters of the Moon
Kennebunk Monday evenings, Saco Tuesday and Thursday evenings Waterboro Tuesday mornings, Dayton Wednesday mornings. Summer Yoga Retreat August 15th-17th, FMI: call Jeanette Schmid Lakari (207) 282-5528.
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
Cyan Magenta Yellow Black
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.
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.
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.
Belfast Yoga Studio. Iyengar style Hatha Yoga 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.
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.
NDE Support & Interest Group Light on the Water NDE Support & Interest Group holds monthly meetings in New England via teleconference. FMI, visit www.TowardTheLight.org or contact Rev. Juliet Nightingale at (615) 292-2217 (mobile).
“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.
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.
Bridge Between Two Worlds Radio Show Mediumship, Physical Phenomena and more. WARL 1320 AM, Mondays 7:00om-8:00pm EST, Providence, RI or on the Internet at www.bridgebetweentwoworlds.net. Host: Medium Pamela Edmunds, (508) 273-0022.
Classified Lisitings 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.
HEALING PLACES
Eco-Retreat in Thoreau's Cabin Experience deep quiet and nature's beauty in a Green Certified cabin on Pleasant Mountain in Denmark, Maine, only an hour from Portland/Freeport. www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929.
Rustic Retreat in a Solar-Powered, wood-fired cabin. Experience deep quiet and nature's beauty while supporting an Environmental Leader in lodging recognized by the state and the EPA. $59/night for two. Denmark, Maine. www.ntnretreats.com, (207) 452-2929.
HEALING PRACTITIONERS
Feldenkrais, Portland Tired of pain? Reclaim natural ease through subtle, surprising and powerful movement patterns and hands-on. The effects are cumulative and saturate breathing, thinking and moving with comfort. Monday-Friday, 10:00am-5:00pm, 75 Gray Street, Jane Burdick, janeburd@maine.rr.com, (207) 773-6809.
HYPNOTHERAPY CERTIFICATION TRAINING
Phenomenal, weekend trainings. Learn from award-winning, hypnotherapy instructor, Julie Griffin, BCH, 16 years' clinical experience. Call (800) 497-1807. Free brochure and hypnosis CD. Or visit www.hypnosistoday.com for instant hypnosis downloads. Free retakes and telephone support!
SACRED RENTAL SPACE Space Available for Gatherings, Ceremonies, Presentations. At Earthrest, Cornish, ME. Call (207) 625-4179.
A Place In The Heart
Ongoing~NewHampshire
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.
NESHHA Educational Presentation
SACRED SPACE FOR SALE
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.
Mindful Meditation™ Thursdays, 12:00pm-1:00pm
Ongoing~RhodeIsland
Eaton Satsang
WWW.BESTMAINEWATERFRONT.COM Two unique sunset lakefront offerings. Privacy with accessibility to both Bangor and Bar Harbor. FMI see website or call Alison Cote (207) 632-3662.
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.
Calendar and classified listing submission deadline for December/January issue is November 5th Time flies don't forget
Inner Tapestry 's ~ calendar of Events and Classified Guidelines Calendar and Classified Listings Calendar of Events ~ Date Sensitive Listings ~ $12 per issue for 30 words, additional words are 50 cents each.
Please follow the format of our calendar found in the journal and online, (Date information, title, description, location and contact information.) 42 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
Calendar of Events ~ Ongoing Event Listings ~ A six-month (3 issue) listing is $25 for 30 words, additional words are 50 cents each.
Please follow the format of our Ongoing Listings found in the journal and online, (Title, frequency, description, location and contact information.)
Classified Ads
Classified ads are $20 for 30 words, additional words are 50 cents each.
Please send formatted listings. We do not publish press releases.
All Calendar and Classified Listings are listed on the Inner Tapestry Website!
www.innertapestry.org
43
mi xed m e dia
Book Review b y K a re n M . Ri d e r Sea Magic ~ Connecting with the Ocean's Energy By: Sandra Kynes ISBN: 0738713538 Publisher: Llewellyn Publications
Who among us has not been mesmerized by the energy, power, and sanctuary of the great oceans of the world? Whether observing from sandy shores, playing in the surf or navigating the high seas, each of us feels called to honor the ocean and its creatures, both beautiful and terrifying. Sandra Kynes’s Sea Magic takes the reader on a poetic voyage into the mysterious depths of the ocean as both natural wonder and mystical entity. Her lyrical writing serves as a vessel to carry the spiritual seeker on a journey into the inner depths of emotion and imagination.
MIXED M E D IA
According to Kynes, “the ocean gives us clarity to see and understand our journey. . . Embraced by the circle of the sea, we can find the hidden land, the paradise that exists within our souls.” The reader need not live near, or even be visiting the coast, to be entranced by the meditation and journaling exercises that Kynes has created and which so easily settle the murky waters of minds that are always at work. Learn how to center yourself, engaging and aligning all of
WE B SITES M US I C
DV D s S I E O V M AND F OO D
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Book Review
I found myself transported, in the comfort of my sitting room, through sight, sound and scent, to favorite childhood beaches as well as to the mystical shores of my imagination. I returned from the meditation sessions feeling invigorated, as I always feel after a tryst in the salty waters of the sea. There are a great many gems to be discovered in this book, making it a terrific gift at anytime of the year. My only hope is that the next edition will include a companion CD of Kyne’s alluring meditations and incantations. Sandra Kynes is a resident of Maine. She is an explorer of Celtic history, myth and magic. She is a member of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids. Sandra is yoga instructor and Reiki practitioner in addition to serving as leader and facilitator of healing circles and rituals for women.
Karen M. Rider, M.A. writes articles, stories, reviews and promotional copy that educates, enlightens and entertains the reader. Karen is guided by three muses—clarity, integrity and creativity—in all endeavors. She holds a degree in health psychology. Karen resides in central Connecticut where she shares life’s adventures with her daughters and husband. She is working on her first novel. Contact: KarenM_Rider@cox.net.
by Joan Emmons
Thanks, Jack, In Need of a Miracle By: Jack Rose ISBN: 978-0978954659 Publisher: Black Channel Press, www.blackchannelpress.com I sat at my desk one afternoon, the phone rang and I was asked by a man to review a book that he had written. He said it was his autobiography and he lives North Conway, NH. Being an extremely captivating and very pleasant person, I agreed to enter into the life of Jack "Johnnie" Rose. I have been so intrigued in sharing Jack's story of growing up during World War II as it has brought to me the many feelings of the few and far between stories my Dad has shared with me in the past of his childhood. Jack (Johnnie) Rose grew up in New England during the forties and fifties in a family of six siblings after the loss of their brother Jack (12 years old) in February of 1936. Yes, that's right, Jack's brother is Jack also. So I will refer to the author Jack Rose as Johnnie in this review. Johnnie's mom fell ill with influenza after caring for her children who has contacted this illness becoming unconscious and near death. Her son Jack trying to pick up the slack of caring for his siblings and his mom also fell ill and died of complications due to the influenza before his mother could regain consciousness. Jack, paid a visit to his mom a year later, promising another would come and take his place. Two years to the day and hour at 6:00 am Johnnie was born. Now can you imagine growing up knowing and being told that you were someone's replacement! This is a story of how a boy who never physically knowing his brother, developed a deep and loving relationship with him.
Johnnie was a boy full of spirit and a knowledge that something other than he was watching out for him as he grew up. Adventures abound during a time when kids were out playing all day in woods and fields with friends and family. The summers were filled with fishing, building forts and climbing trees. School had its adventures as well and connections with his brother Jack start to manifest. Johnnie's older sister would have to take him with her as he grew up and my memories jumped back to having my brother tag along with me. "Was it for me to watch him, or was it for him to watch me?" is the questions she would ask, I remember those same words swirling through my mind as I decided what and what not to do with my cousins.
It doesn't matter what decade you have been brought up in, nor the economic status of the country, family life is family life and we all can connect with its trials and tribulations. Johnnie is a child who was gifted with the knowledge and the presence of someone in his life to watch over him. Taking full advantage through school recitals, falling from trees, to car incidences, Jack must have had to work overtime to keep up with Johnnie. They say that cats, not people, have nine lives, they haven't met Johnnie Rose. As a reader you are placed into the perspective of Johnnie, you are given enough information and family photos to actually feel that you are related to the Rose family and have been to their house many times. The one thing that consistently came up is "What will Johnnie get into next? How will Jack support his younger brother?" You will follow the road that leads more and more clearly to the fact that yes, Johnnie is being watched and supported by his brother Jack and that we all have guardian angels too. This books ends with Johnnie being 17 years old and there are plans in the works for a sequel. You can purchase a copy and learn more about Jack Rose at www.consultec-mwv.com/
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your senses, to the rhythms of the sea in the comfort of your home. In doing so, you will explore your inner ocean of emotion, intention, inspiration and creativity. Kynes introduces real and mythical sea creatures and legendary netherworlds held betwixt and between the ebb and flow of ocean energy. You will venture on a shamanic journey with a chosen sea fetch (totem sea animal) and encounter sea deities and saints. You will learn how understanding the ocean’s natural forces, such as tides and lunar influences, can empower your own process of transformation.
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Book Review
by Ro n Da mi c o
Ten Assumptions for a New Paradigm The Trust Frequencey By: Andrew Cameron Bailey and Baxter Marlow This is a self published book ISBN number as of yet not assigned In their book, The Trust Frequency: Ten Assumptions for a New Paradigm, Andrew Cameron Bailey and Connie Baxter Marlow create an evolutionary new perspective of life drawn from extensive time with visionary indigenous elders, consciousnessexpansion pioneers and 125 years of combined life experience on Planet Earth. Through what they call The Trust Frequency, people will begin to access a way of seeing reality which supports an understanding of life and the workings of the universe in such a way that the logical mind chooses to align with the soul’s highest purpose and the universal desire for peace, abundance and joy. The essence of the book, workshop and film is the Ten Assumptions for a New Paradigm. These assumptions, or core beliefs, along with specific definitions of the words used to describe them, resonate to a deep knowing within the human heart. Marlow and Bailey developed this body of information over the past four decades, through personal inspiration, extensive time in a variety of indigenous cultures, and the spiritual counter-culture of the sixtiess and seventies.
and social philosopher, “there was no framework to understand the cosmology of the indigenous peoples of the world. There has been a disconnect that has led to separation and alienation between cultures throughout the world for millennia, preventing the Western mind from accessing the indigenous cosmology.” According to Marlow and Bailey this worldview may be summarized as follows: We live in the Now, in a conscious loving Universe where there is only Love. The unconditional nature of that Love means it must give us everything we ask for. The 4 A's – Assumption, Attitude, Attention and Action are our requests to the Universe. Each carries a frequency, which has its own laws. Free will enables us to choose our frequency and thereby our reality. The true, abundant, joyful nature of the Universe is available to anyone who chooses the Trust Frequency. According to Marlow and Bailey, ultimately, it is the Trust Frequency that makes the difference. Once we learn how to access this elevated state of being, this shimmering place of beauty, we find ourselves operating at a completely different vibratory rate where the rules and laws are different. In the Trust Frequency, wisdom, prosperity and enlightenment are the order of the day. How do we get there? We shift our consciousness. How do we do that? The first step is to change our fundamental assumptions about the nature of reality. It’s an infinitely more beautiful Universe than we ever suspected! And this book takes us there, right to the heart of it. We create our own reality, which means we are each responsible for the circumstances of our lives. Why not create a life of grace and ease, beauty and balance? This book provides readers with an opportunity to question the way they view the world and in turn their reality. It is the way we view the world, that creates how we perceive and experience what we call life. This book offers clear and understandable ways to create an environment that will offer an opening to a way of living life most are not aware of. It is a wonderful step on the journey of selfawakening and awareness.
“Before the quantum nature of reality became available to the mainstream through such films as What the Bleep!? and The Secret” states Bailey, film director
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Few are those who see with their own eyes and feel with their own hearts. Albert Einstein
CD Movie & Book Review by R o n D am i c o
Touchstone: Dancing With Angels Touchstone Farm, East Hampton, MA www.touchstonemovie.org www.sacredcircles.com Touchstone: Dancing With Angels is a documentary focusing on the people, history and current challenges of Touchstone Farm. This community of eclectic and creative individuals is located in the town of Easthampton, Massachusetts. They are a group of dreamers and artists known for their uplifting music, Sacred Circle dancing, yoga classes and massage and acupuncture center, as well as their herb, flower and meditation gardens and non-denominational celebrations. The film brings one through the many joys and sorrows throughout the community's time of being. This documentary uses interviews as well as time-lapse footage at the Farm and throughout the Pioneer Valley to share their story. This is not just a story about the transformations or the farm community and its members but of the town, its residents and the love and appreciation of what the farm means to them.
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The film expresses the history of the farm and community to a point in time of uncertainty for their future, a visit to the website (www.sacredcircles.com/ EcoVillage/eco-village.htm) allows the viewer to see what the community's appreciation, group and individual transformation and intention has brought forth for the residents, the community and the world. This is an opportunity to experience the journey of life unfolding with all the ups and downs we experience in life. If you are open to seeing real life as it reveals itself outside of what most would consider normal, this is a wonderful opportunity to open your mind and heart to the simple process of life lived as people purposefully choose to. Throughout this experience they come to meet themselves, share their joys, surrender to their fears and open to all life has to offer. They are often referred to as, "a community of hermits who happen to like people." Touchstone: Dancing With Angels is a locally produced documentary by filmmaker D.S. Fine, editor Rebecca Rideout and associate producer Holly Danyliw. This film is filled with local music and beautiful scenery and imagery. Touchstone: Dancing With Angels is a chance to see life as most are hesitant to live. For more information about Touchstone Farm or to purchase the movie or sound track please visit their website at www.TouchstoneMovie.org. To learn more about the Eco-Sustainable Community visit www.sacredcircles.com/ EcoVillage/eco-village.htm.
Ron Damico and Joan Emmons are partners in an energetic healing practice seeing clients in Maine and Connecticut. Ron and Joan are also publishers of Inner Tapestry. They can be reached at www.ronandjoan.com.
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Book Review
by Tere sa P i c c a ri
When Fear Falls Away ~ The Story of a Sudden Awakening By: Jan Frazier ISBN: 9781578634002 Publisher: Weiser Books www.RedWheelWeiser.com Reading Jan Frazier’s story about her spontaneous enlightenment, a movie scene from When Harry Met Sally, comes to mind. As a fellow diner observes Sally feigning orgasm at an adjacent table and tells the waitress, “I’ll have what she’s having.” Who wouldn’t want to be free of fear, anxiety, suffering, desperation, loneliness, obsession, stress and frustration? Who wouldn’t want to be in a state of enlightenment? Exactly! Throughout the book, based on chronological events developed during writing workshops and filled in with relevant experiences from the past, the author gives us an intimate and generous portrait of an 18 month period leading up to and following her awakening in 2003 at the age of 50. Frazier’s path to freedom opened up before her when she made a simple request that the fear surrounding an upcoming medical test be lifted. Here is one example of how the author describes her transformed reality: You are on a train, and when you look out in front of you, you can see track ahead of the train as far as the eyes can follow, disappearing over the horizon. These are the mysteries ahead, yet to be entered. But if you go look out the back of the train, you find the track has disappeared.
Roughly a decade before her awakening, the author recounts a spiritual initiation in which she was graced with shaktipat by Gurumayi. Frazier characterizes her enlightenment as spontaneous, but she had been plowing a long and fertile spiritual field for her awakening to take hold. At times, Frazier says words seem insufficient to convey her spiritual breakthrough and admits that because her present way of being is so different from pre-awakening, she struggles to explain it in terms readers can relate to. She finds her way by illustrating examples from her former life, what she refers to as her old or ordinary life, and contrasting those with her current state. She is careful to point out that her experience is uniquely hers and that for each of us, enlightenment may look feel and happen very differently but to know that it is a real possibility – more attainable that most of us imagine.
CD Review by Betty Close Mind Full Eating ~ Making Peace With Food By Shoshana Levinson, MS shoshana@eatwellusa.com Here is a CD that you can really sink your teeth into. It is not another diet, but rather a call to “transform our relationship” with food, the ultimate destination being to make “peace with food.” As the back cover says: “In a culture that spends 40 billion dollars a year on dieting and experiences a 96% failure rate, we must ask ourselves: Is dieting really the answer?” Shoshana Levinson starts by describing the “standard American Diet (SAD)” and our culture. Having 24 hour access to lousy, cheap, good-tasting food and colossal cuisine is resulting not only in obesity, but also an epidemic of diet related diseases. Shoshana does not offer a "one size fits all" approach, but instead ways to accomplish some long-term changes that we can truly embrace. She asks us to look at and “feel our emotions” to enable us to get off the rollercoaster we find ourselves riding on. We are called to appreciate our bodies no matter what our size and to stop judging ourselves so harshly. “How we eat reflects the way we live.” She suggests that we create the time needed to make these changes, not just find the time. Not only do we need to eat
Once, while vacationing in Maine with her lover, a materialist who, she writes, seeks tangible proof of the spiritual, Frazier relates an encounter between them as they read Merrell-Wolff together. “I saw more than once in Peter’s eyes the longing to experience what Merrell-Wolff describes, to taste the thing he knows I hold on my tongue: a sweet that does not dissolve, that does not dilute or corrupt in the messy saliva of what it is to be human." Later, Frazier writes about her epiphany, “It’s not like being liberated in spite of being human. Enlightenment comes through being human. Reading that transported me to a scene at the end of the movie Chocolat – when the wise young, Elvis-loving priest stands before his flock on Easter Sunday without the usual scripted homily provided by the mayor, who is recovering from an emotional and chocolate debauch, and says he does not want to talk about Christ’s divinity but about his humanity. Before him sit the residents of a once tranquil French village, which has been awakened by a mysterious outsider who works her innate magic on one person after another. In healing them, she transforms herself and finds the home she didn’t even know she was seeking. “My experience of what’s happened to my humanity is like this,” writes Frazier. “My ways of encountering the world and experience that didn’t serve me or that were a waste of energy – those things fell away, evaporated, and thereby freed up space. This is how I literally experienced the process of becoming free. When fear left, all these other things – abilities, insights, profound tenderness – came rushing in.” The truth is, according to the author, we can all have what she is having. We just can’t order it. The process of enlightenment is far more involuntary and organic. This book is not a page-turner to be read in one sitting but rather a book to be placed on a side table and read in small intervals. Thus letting it seep into you at a cellular level, to be taken into your being as you take in a cool brisk breeze that kicks up in the middle of a too hot night when you rise and open a window to let the fresh dry air blow through the house and your mind – purifying everything in its wake. Having returned to your slumber, nestled in the softness of your bed, you simply allow it. Jan Frazier will be coming to mid-coast Maine. She will hold a Satsang with a Q&A on Friday evening, November 14th from 7:00pm-9:00pm at The Wellness Center, 69 Elm St., Camden. On Saturday, November 15th from 10:00am-4:00pm, she will conduct a day long retreat at the Belfast Yoga Studio located in The Belfast Center, Suite 424 at 9 Field St., Belfast, (www.belfastyoga.com). For more information visit the author’s website at www.whenfearfallsaway.com or contact Michelle Walker at mic@coyotemoonmaine.com or Dee Webster at dee.webster@ verizon.net Teresa Piccari is a writer and teacher living in coastal Maine. She is the proprietor of The Village Scribe, a writing and editing service meeting professional and everyday needs, in Camden. She runs The Ducktrap Writers Roundtable. Her writing workshops include Creative Writing, Mythic Structure, Writing & Healing and Memoir. Correspond with her at TheVillageScribe@hotmail.com or call 207.344.7070.
more whole foods but we also need to start cooking again. It is so simple if we truly choose it to be. We are encouraged to “deepen into a sense of calm and be in the present moment.” There are two meditations to assist us. The first one is to help us check in and be present with how we are doing physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. The second meditation asks the listener to sit at a table with a small plate of food, explore the colors and savor the aroma. While eating, slowly chew each bite until the food becomes liquid before swallowing; then tune into your belly and feel how full you are. Since listening to this CD, I have been trying to follow this technique, and I am amazed at how much I distract myself while I am eating. It is no wonder I ate the whole bag of chips, since I have spent years eating while reading or doing anything but being present with the food in front of me. This CD offers a summary of recommendations and one that resonated with me was: “Never let yourself get too angry, too hungry, too lonely or too tired.” There are also practical steps so that one may chose differently and not be mindless and rushed all the time. My focus was primarily on the relationship between food and my body, but the CD also offers a lot of information about healthy dietary choices and each track has an action plan at the end. There are many nuggets for any and all of us to consider and embrace as we choose. Enjoy and have fun! Shoshana Levinson is a nutritionist and wellness coach. She has offices in Hartford and Storrs, Connecticut and specializes in holistic protocols, which include dietary change and nutritional supplement recommendations. To purchase Shoshana’s CD and for more information please visit her website: www.eatwellusa.com.
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The author views herself as a regular person, just like the rest of us. She writes with great reverence for Baba Muktananda, Gurumayi, Krishnamurti, Franklin Merrell-Wolff and Eckhart Tolle, for their words, wisdom and lighting her path – and insists that what happened to her can happen to anyone.
In fact, Frazier says the awakened state of joy and ease is our birthright. ”It is the story of why every one of us was born,” she writes.
46 Continued fr om page 15 moder n s hamanic living ~ The Matter o f M a s ks in the forests of Scandinavia. Here again, we see the overlayment of the shaman’s zoomorphic transformations. It is Huldra who gives her name to the great female shaman/völva Huld of the Icelandic Sagas. She is said to be the god Odin’s mistress, which is a rather overt way of saying she consorted with the numinous power of Spirit! Pertcha rituals took place into the 16th century. The people who donned masks to become Pertcha were the Perchten. This name is also given to the animal masks worn in parades and festivals in the mountainous regions of Austria. The Perchten took two forms: the Schönperchten or beautiful Perchten who are beautiful and bright who “bring luck and wealth to the people.” The other form is the Schiachperchten (ugly Perchten) who have fangs, tusks and horse tails which are used to drive out demons and ghosts. Men dressed as the ugly Perchten went from house to house driving out bad spirits. This duality reflects this time of year so well. On the one hand, it is the time of the greatest bounty. All of the crops are in, the root cellars are full, the cheese is ripening and the wine is safely resting in casks. On the other hand, the daylight is waning, the cold begins to penetrate the land and the nature of life becomes more difficult. As the darkness creeps in we feel the chill of our mortality. We wonder in the midst of all the bounty, will there be enough to sustain us until Spring? So we distract ourselves, for a little while, playing out the dances of light and dark, of saint and boogie man. We don fearsome masks to both honor what terrifies us and to disempower the dark’s hold on our hearts! Schiachperchten Mask This Halloween, when the little goblins come up your porch steps, remember their shamanic origins. When you open the door, take a deep breath of the chill air redolent with the smell of wood smoke and leaves. Then let their childish delight in dressing up drive away the darkness! © 2008 Evelyn C. Rysdyk. A more extensive version of this article may be found in the October issue of Spirit Living, The Ecospiritual E-Magazine in the “Footprints of the Ancestors” section. www.spiritliving.org. Photos courtsey of www.dreamstime.com. Evelyn C. Rysdyk, author of the book, Modern Shamanic Living, is a nationally recognized teacher of shamanism, healer & artist in joint practice with C. Allie Knowlton, LCSW, DCSW as Spirit Passages. Featured in the book, Traveling Between the Worlds, interviews with 24 of the world’s most influential writers and teachers of shamanism, she is also Executive Editor of the E-magazine for Ecospirituality, Spirit Living (www.spiritliving.org). Since 1991, they have offered workshops across the USA and Canada. In addition, they have worked with hundreds of people in their private shamanic healing practice at True North in Falmouth, ME where they collaborate with physicians, nurses, a psychiatrist and other integrative health care practitioners. Evelyn and her partner may be contacted though their web site: www.spiritpassges.com.
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Continued from page 26 21st century bohemian ~ Master Spotlight at Maine Media Workshops his career highs, he said, was shooting golfer Arnold Palmer in his workshop. He has done many Rolling Stone assignments for musicians including Usher, Little Bow Wow and DMZ. He also showed several shots from a project that featured professional baseball players from various teams. Seattle illustrator, photographer and mixed media artist David Julian was putting in his sixth year at the workshops and teaching the Art and Craft of Digital Montage. He showed illustrations created with PhotoShop and breaking down the multiple layers involved, explained how he taught himself to use the program, showing how an artist can creatively embrace digital media. Julian also screened a series of photojournalism shots made in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. His work depicted the devastation of a world turned upside down. “Everything that had been inside in drawers was now outside and things that had been outside, were now inside,” he said of the city and the resulting photographs. The Cincinnati-based portrait photographer Michael Wilson, in his first appearance at MMW, was there to teach The Process of Portraits. He screened a black-and-white show featuring portraits, including many famous musicians including Lyle Lovett, B.B. King, Emmylou Harris, David Byrne and Waylon Jennings. Apologizing that his pictures were all the same size and in a bordered box, Wilson said it was the first time he had scanned photos into his computer. Clearly a purist, Wilson was excited about a new studio he has put together
where he will be making pictures like they did in the 19th Century. “You come, I take a picture and you leave with it,” he explained. About the School The legacy of the Maine Media Workshops is 35 years in the making. Much has changed including its name, management and in 2007, the shift to non-profit status. Its ability to attract world-class talent and put art first, thrives. The school offers something for everyone who wishes to pick up a camera, including black-and-white, portrait, outdoor, nature, travel, photojournalism and documentary photography. All aspects of filmmaking are covered, from producing, writing editing and cinematography to digital video and documentary work. Also, multimedia classes are offered and newer programs include design and book arts and animation. To request a catalog, enroll or learn more about community events or the diverse workshops and degree programs at the Maine Media Workshops in Rockport, visit www.theworkshops.com or call toll free 877-577-7700. Teresa Piccari is a writer and teacher living in coastal Maine. She is the proprietor of The Village Scribe, a writing and editing business located at The Wellness Center, 71 Elm, in Camden, ME. She runs The Ducktrap Writers Roundtable. She teaches writing workshops including Creative Writing, Mythic Structure, Writing & Healing and Memoir. Correspond with her at The21stCenturyBohemian@hotmail.com or (207) 344-7070.
Continued from page 28 the way of life it-self ~ Being Myself Is An Act of Value Intelligence entities have the ability to choose and initiate acts. The choices are made in those moments of choosing from the facts what will be next. Each living being is an intelligent actor connected to the energy of life. Within that life-energy are process laws that function as value intelligence. Each being has access to that value intelligence. From those laws evolutionary processes occur. It is not random processes. It is not God the designer. It is life with God a co-creator in a dance with all living entities being themselves. So that’s me being myself, evolving my working knowledge, not from random thoughts or reading a bunch of random books, but from my life experience, my identity, my inquiry, and yes, my connection to value intelligence provided by the energy of life. 46 Inner Tapestry Oct/Nov 2008
Norm and Skye Hirst, PhD – co-founders of The Autonomics Institute. Together they are combining their work as consultants, researchers and educators to bring this emerging view of life as organism into focus. As the shift of consciousness occurs, Skye works as coach and educator to individual progressive leaders world wide, helping business owners, policy makers, community organizers process the difficult challenges facing us at this time. Beginning at MIT studying physics, mathematics and values, Norm chose as Skye & Norm his life work the study of where and how values show up in science. 50 years later he’s bringing out his findings of a whole new reality, philosophy and science for understanding life-itself dynamics. Contact them at hirst@autognomics.org or shirst@autognomics.org.
47 Continued from page 14 loving earth ~ Welcome to Gaian Voices, Earth Spirit, Earth Action, Earth Stories One of the things I really want Gaian Voices to do is to help people open their eyes to the earth, to see the earth as alive. That’s why it’s called Gaian Voices, after the Gaia Theory that the earth is alive and that we can and must as human beings participate actively in the life on the earth. It is our responsibility on the soul/ spirit level to participate with the birds and the trees and the bears and the soils and oceans in a way that is reciprocal, (not the whole power over-cutting down the tree thing) by having a relationship with the tree. Then if you cut the tree, because you have a relationship with the tree, you respect that wood. When we have that kind of respect and reciprocity, our lives change. That is the kind of change we need. Once that happens inside of people, we treat things differently. It’s a very subtle thing. I think it’s that subtlety that can then impact the systems and processes that control the larger worlds of finance and politics. When I used to say that 25 years ago, I felt there was plenty of time and I was a lot more optimistic. But now, although I feel there are more people open to it in some shape or form, the system itself has also grown and gotten bigger and more entrenched. Now there are more people living on the earth. So the issues are even bigger than they were. I believe there is more to life than we can see. I believe the earth is alive, we are alive, we are conscious, the earth is conscious, the tree has consciousness, the river has consciousness. It is a different consciousness than human consciousness, but it is consciousness. And it’s real. So what does that mean? To me it means we are not the only ones that are in this situation. It is not humans against the world, or against each other. It is all of us, including all of the other non-human species in this together. And we can work together. How you are living at Earthrest is one of the ways that we work together with the different consciousnesses of the earth. I believe that once there are
enough of us doing these things, there will be change. I believe that as we wake up and start having this kind of relationship and perspective, things can change amazingly fast. There is more to us than a physical body, there is spirit. And spirit can heal just as much as a medicine we take. Miracles can happen. They don’t happen willy-nilly. They happen because we work hard, and because we are dogged, and because we believe, and because we have love in our hearts. That’s when the miracles happen. We need to work with the earth, we need to come to the earth with love in our hearts. The earth will give that love back and we will feel it. When we feel it, it changes us. I do believe if enough people do this, that’s what is going to change the world; opening ourselves up to those kinds of relationships and then taking the way we feel and that knowledge and using it will make some kind of a difference in other areas. That’s what I try to do in the newsletter by putting out different stories and interviews. I’m trying to give people a sense of what’s possible when we look at things differently, and how those feelings influence the way we do things and what becomes important to us. IT: Thank you, Susan. Gaian Voices, published twice a year, is available in Bridgton at Morning Dew and Bridgton Books, in Cornish at Earthrest, in North Conway at White Birch Books and by subscription at Gaian Voices, 132 Fish St., Fryeburg, ME 04037. Copyright Pat Foley, 2008 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.
for where the nerve controlling that finger is entrapped. It could be at the wrist, the elbow, shoulder, finally the spine. We work our way to the final controlling part of the system, the brain. We go through the steps to locate and identify the problem.”
in Southern Maine offers a specialized functional approach to patients by improving the health of their brain and nervous system, without the use of drugs or surgery. Their office is at 19 Commercial Street Portland, Maine. Telephone (207) 699-5600 or visit their website www.portchiro.com.
In his practice, Dr. MacArthur treats the whole person through not only Chiropractic Neurology, but nutrition, and lifestyle changes to bring the patient into balance. Besides treating structural and spinal needs of patients, he also treats those overcoming issues relating to strokes, multiple sclerosis, attention deficit disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and autism.
Kevin Pennell, an author from Bethel , Maine, wrote Two Feathers–Spiritual Seed Planter and has written for other periodicals and media. Kevin Pennell is an Usui and Karuna Reiki® Master Teacher, Certified Hypnotherapist, Ancestral Healing Practitioner, and Psychic Empath. He conducts Reiki and other workshops that assist spiritual and personal development. Kevin, with his wife, Vickie Cummings, own and operate Spirit Wings, their Compassionate Healing Center and Therapeutic Store located in Bethel, Maine.Contact www.spiritwingsbethel.com or kevin@spiritwingsbethel.com.
Dr. Aaron MacArthur of Portland Chiropractic Neurology a Destination for Healing
Continued from page 29 exploring the world religions ~ Decide To Be Peaceful ~ On Jainism Thoughts are like seeds that sprout into words, and deeds. The foundation of Jainism is observing ahimsa or non-violence in thought, word, as well as deed. “Progress, whether for individuals, groups or the whole of humanity, is by decisive choices made from time to time, forced by the development of a situation which, as it mounts up, calls for its own resolution. Life in matter is a series of crises and resolutions... “The greatest mistake of a soul is non-recognition of its real-self, and this is only rectified by recognizing itself. “The enlightened should contemplate that his soul is endowed with Boundless Energy. Whatever is the Supreme Soul, so am I. Whatever is my essential nature is the essence of Supreme Soul. Therefore, I am fitted for meditating on my inner Supreme Soul – none other.” (Sant Mahavira) “The One, who can not be described by words and is not conceivable as matter or material stuff is the Supreme Soul. He is infinite and transcends Sound and has no birth, and is not subject to wandering in the world. With a still and tranquil mind meditate on the Supreme Soul.” (The Jnanarnva, on Paramatma) Peace is a word Of the sea and the wind. Peace is a bird who sings As you smile. Peace is the love Of a foe as a friend;
Peace is the love you bring To a child Searching for me You look everywhere, Except beside you. Searching for you You look everywhere, But not inside you. Peace is a stream From the heart of a man; Peace is a man, whose breadth Is the dawn. Peace is a dawn On a day without end; Peace is the end, like death Of the war. (Peace - An End, song by King Crimson, Album: In the Wake of Poseidon, 1970)
James Bean reviews books and music for the Wisdom Radio Network and other stations via a syndicated radio program called Spiritual Awakening, and teaches Sant Mat Meditation and Surat Shabda Yoga in the Bangor, Waterville, & Portland areas. Address questions or comments to PO Box 7, Newport, Maine 04953, or email: james@spiritualawakeningradio.com. Oct/Nov 2008 Inner Tapestry 47
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Continued from page 20 destination healing ~ northern new england ~ Being Yourself Through Chiropractic Neurology
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