Mystic Magazine

The Meditation Guide

Out of the Shadows

Reaching Your Peak

Follow these illustrations to bring inner peace

The magic of the eclipse translated into art

Eat wholesome and do it right to feel amazing

September 2017

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Align Your Chakras With This Spiritual and Natural Wellness Journal

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

welcome B

elievers, people who have had profound personal experiences of the spiritual world find themselves isolated although they may actually be a quiet majority. Many find themselves feeling alien in this world and in conflict in their own inner world trying to figure out how to live after their spiritual awakening?

The ongoing debate whether the stories of other realms are real or not is really not that interesting. What is important to them is trying to figure out what exactly did they experience and how do they now continue living? Their awakening was real,too real. They cannot shut it out or pretend it never happened. They are too deeply touched as they try to manage their new inner life with the ordinary outer life they knew before.

Much Love,

Cara Croft, Mystic Editor

CCroft@Mystic.com @CaraCroftMystic @CaraCroftMystic

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THE TEACHERS

Melissa Johnson

This understanding jumps out at me like a spider monkey every time I speak to someone who genuinely loves what they do.

Designer

Drake Wood

Anne King

Though their career paths may have swerved here and there, they’ve remained connected to the initial challenge—that all important motivating “juice”.

Sure, at times it’s harder to focus, because all of us wade into murky waters now and again, sometimes deep enough. This is a result of chaos.

Designer

writer

photographer

writer

Austin Allen

Rebecca Manos

I wish that more people would realize that if they dig way back into their personal histories, they’ll connect up with some extremely important reminders.

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But people who love what they do never fully lose sight of the challenge and the sense of purpose that drives them.

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CONTENTS

contents For the Explorer

You Are Energy

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12 Nurturing an adventure spirit

38 The Meditation Guide

Thank You, Universe

take our quiz to Locate your inner traveller and feed it through these ideas

yoga master, social media influencer, puppy lover, and new mother - an interview with rachel brathen

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channel your inner calm and build your practice with these illustrated guides

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go out and find yourself

Harness Your Crystal’s Energies

out of the shadows

everyone needs some soul searching. how to connect with nature, and how it heals

the enchantments of the solar eclipse have stirred the creativity in these talented artists

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born from nature and swirling with magic, these little rocks will change your life

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relics nestled among the earth

Tend to Your Chakras

out of the box

if you’re getting ready to set off, here are the most magical structures you can visit

trash is for tossers - living zero waste is taking over the world, and here is how to start yours

your seven inner points need care too. Align and love your seven chakras every day

Positive Being

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Reaching Your Peak

The Essential Oils

The Power of plants

every whole30 venture is unique. how to optimize yours and find your tiger’s blood

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these fragrant drops will heal and boost your life in more ways than imaginable

these green beings, in all shapes and sizes, can help you in silent ways

For the Explorer Stories of travel, worldly adventures, and the search for personal enlightenment.

16 Nurturing an adventure spirit Locate your inner traveller and feed it

19 Go Out and Find Yourself

Connecting with nature, and how it heals

27 Relics nestled among the earth

The most magical structures you can visit

FOR THE EXPLORER nurturing an adventure spirit

n urtu ri ng a n a dv e n turous sp i rit Need to do a little bit more soul searching? Check out our quiz page online, and learn some more about you!

Take our quiz to feed your inner traveller! Every restless spirit needs an outlet sometimes, and here are a few ideas how, while still home.

Mystic.com/Quiz

By Melissa Johnson

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Pick the word that means the most to you, or describes you best

Pick the landscape that means the most to you, or describes you best

Under stress, you tend to

a. Freedom

a. I Like Strange, Dark, or Wild Places

a. Be Scatterbrained, Feckless, and Wishy-Washy

b. I Like the Plains and Wide Expanses of Earth

b. Become Anger-Prone, Inattentive, and Reckless

c. I Like High and Remote Places

c. Be Moody/Depressed, Loud, and Restless

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At your best, you are

Pick the phrase that means the most to you, or describes you best

In your spiritual practice, you most value one of the following

a. A Revolutionary, An Inventor, a Genius

a. Independence and Bliss

a. Going My Own Way

b. Worldliness and Knowledge

b. Devotion and Desire

c. Entertainment and Fun

c. Rituals and Observances

b. Loyalty c. Prosperity

b. A Devoted Friend, A Hard-Worker, A Caregiver c. A Leader, A Hero, A Risk-Taker

Mostly A: You really are restless, so try a new form of transportation around town!

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Mostly B: You’re a creative, so try drawing up and sending postcards, just from home!

Mostly C: You love to get out there - grab a local map, close your eyes, point, and drive!

FOR THE EXPLORER GO OUT AND FIND YOURSELF

Go Ou t a n d F i n d Yoursel f Finding herself in the middle of the rainforest, with only the sound of the brook and the birds invading her mind, she thought she was going crazy.

By Austin Allen

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his November 13-19 2017, I am leading a retreat back to this WILD place. I will teach 2 yoga classes per day, one gentle/therapeutic and one vinyasa so all levels are welcome. Treat yourself to 3 healthy meals a day prepared by the local chef using fresh ingredients. Dinners are 3 course meals which often include fresh baked homemade bread. You can chose to have a romantic private dining experience or family style dining. The lodging is tucked away in along the tropical garden paths, all have top quality mattresses, linens, lights, fans, private bathrooms and hot water. The patios and balconies are set up with rockers and hammocks for your relaxing pleasure. The optional activities for the week include: yoga (included), spa treatments, waterfall hike, Corcovado National Forest guided tour (included), surfing, horseback riding, sport fishing, and zip-lining.

There are inspiring moments during any retreat. Whether they’re fleeting or sustained, there are times when the pain and awkwardness and strangeness fall away and you’re left with something sublime.

Stillness. Joy. Clarity.

Insight. Peace.

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I grab my yoga mat and head over to the ocean-view yoga deck, the path through the jungle is led by the electric blue wings of the Blue Morpho butterfly, that seems to know exactly where I am going. Did that just happen? My practice is therapeutic and nourishing to my body and mind that’s adjusting to this new environment, I’m patient with myself and enjoy the process. After I’ve allowed for ample time in stillness, I thank my lucky stars, as well as my teachers, family, friends, lovers and Mother Earth for making this dream of a life a reality. A meditative walk back to the lodge is met with a family of Spider Monkeys, swinging gracefully through the trees. over to the poolside restaurant where breakfast is served. A plate of fresh papaya, watermelon and pineapple awaits while the chef prepares the main course. I enjoy my leisurely breakfast and stroll over to the pool for a dip. Since I haven’t quite seen my lush surroundings I opt for an

Hang loose on a retreat that is meant to calm your mind, body, and soul.

FOR THE EXPLORER RELICS NESTLED AMONG THE EARTH

Want to have your travel story in the next issue? Send us your magical experiences to be considered!

(Top) The emerging island that houses the world’s beautiful rock formations (Bottom R) An intense gothic cathedral towers over onlookers (Bottom L) A powerful Buddha statue looms over the sunrise

Mystic.com/ Story-Submission

W Rel i cs N estle d Amon g t h e E a rth

The power of spirit forever lies within the Earth. From mountaintop monasteries to modern temples, these amazing places will make you believe.

By Anne Lang

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e’ve gone through the tips and photos of more than a million travelers on minube to find these places which inspire, astound, and simply take our breath away. From the jungles of Indonesia to the valleys of Tibet, here at the 19 most breathtaking holy places around the world. Rising 100 yards above the city of Rangoon, Myanmar’s Shwedagon Pagoda is, according to many travelers, one of the world’s great wonders. The pagoda is famed for holding the relics of four Buddhas and savvy visitors should visit at night to enjoy the chants of the faithful, the wafting incense, and the great golden stupas shining in the spotlights. The city of New Delhi isn’t exactly known for peace and quiet, but the stunning Lotus Temple, home of the Baha’i faith, is a true oasis of tranquility. Built in 1980, the flower-shaped temple is surrounded by peaceful gardens and a large interior space is reserved for people of all faiths to come and meditate. Saint-Michel d’Aiguilhe Chapel, France - Southern France is dotted with scenic mountaintop churches, but none are quite as breathtaking as the chapel of Saint-Michel d’Aiguilhe. Af-

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Fi l l yo u r Spac e w i t h Beau t y a n d P osi ti v it y Check out these trinkets, plants, and crystals to cover your home with to empower yourself, boost your energy, and encourage good vibes! Our inspirational Mystic shoppers have compiled the shopping cart, all you have to do is check out!

By Anne King

La Notte di Capri Scented Candle $160 SelfRidges.com

Copper Singing Bowl Trio $99 Anthropologie.com

Geometric Succulent Planters $45 TheSill.com

Just not enough here?

We have plenty more links to spirituallyminded vendors!

Mystic.com/Shop

Rainbow Aura Quartz $135 AdvisoryBoardCrystals.com

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Jules Pansu Picasso Cushion $114 SelfRidges.com

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Positive Being Guides to boosting the energies in your life - from home living, to culinary tips, to natural wellness.

12 Reaching Your Peak

In your Whole30 venture, find your tiger’s blood

23 The Essential Oils

How to use these natural oils to heal & boost

34 The Power of Plants

These green beings can help you in silent ways

POSITIVE BEING reaching your peak

R each i n g Your P e a k

A look into and guide for participants in the middle of their Whole30 identify, obtain, and sustain the famous Whole30 “Tiger Blood.”

By Melissa Johnson

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If not eating enough is what’s holding you back, you’ll feel better in just a few days—sometimes immediately.

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have a LOT to say on this one, so buckle up. The first thing I’ll mention is that maybe your definition of Tiger Blood needs a reframe. It’s not always like flipping a switch into “Energize Bunny Mode.” Before you proceed here, make sure you’ve read our updated thoughts on what Tiger Blood COULD mean to you. Maybe it’s as simple as redefining the concept! If your expectations are well-managed and you’re still feeling like you’re missing out, it’s time to talk about is why you may not, in fact, be feeling the “sangre del tigre,” and what you might be able to do about it. If your energy isn’t high or steady, your workouts are dragging, or your focus is meandering, it might be you’re just not eating enough.

Specifically, enough carbohydrate. It’s really common for people to under-eat on the Whole30, and it tends to catch up with them towards the end of the second week (or in the third). You’re probably eating lots of nutrient-dense veggies (leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower) but they’re not very energy-dense.

If you’ve been super low-carb and/or you’re very active, start adding some healthy carbs with every meal (potatoes, winter squash, whole fruit—not juice or smoothie). Start with about a fist-sized serving per meal, more if you’re active. If you get carb-crashy after a meal like this (dragging and foggy-brained), that tells me something about where you are in the fat adaption process. Translation: your mitochondria are taking a bit longer to catch up to your new diet, so keep reading, make sure you’re eating enough fat and don’t start piling on the fruit, plantains, potatoes, and dates or you’ll only make things worse.

If you’re on the lower end of our fat recommendations (regardless of activity levels—everyone needs to eat at least the minimum!), add a little more to each meal. You don’t have to quadruple your portions; try two tablespoons of dressing instead of one, or half an avocado instead of a quarter. If you start feeling better, feel free to continue ramping this up slowly.

Many people think they’re getting enough fat because they add a tablespoon or two

POSITIVE BEING reaching your peak

Need more Whole30 meal ideas and meal plans? Let us show you!

Mystic.com/ Recipes-Whole30

Mexican Chipotle Sweet Potato Eggs Benedict These Mexican-style Sweet Potato Eggs Benedict start with roasted sweet potatoes rounds that are topped with roasted tomato, chunky guacamole, and poached eggs then smothered in chipotle hollandaise. They’re an insanely delicious breakfast recipe that just happens to be vegetarian + gluten-free +paleo + Whole30 approved!

Ingredients Prep Time

5

min

Cook Time

30

min

Total Time

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24

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1 avocado

Neutral flavored oil, for the pan

1 teaspoon vinegar

2 egg yolks

4 Roma tomatoes, but in half lengthwise

¼ cup cilantro, chopped

Juice from ½ lime

2 tablespoons ghee

1 medium sweet potato, cut into 1-inch rounds

4 large eggs (use the best quality you can)

1 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

Juice from ¼ lime

Instructions Set your oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drizzle the baking sheet with oil then lay the sweet potato rounds on top. Drizzle some more oil over top and sprinkle with a little sea salt. Bake for 15 minutes, or until they are mostly soft. Salt the cut side of the tomatoes then put them in the pan with the sweet potatoes. Roast for 10 more minutes. Mash the avocado with the cilantro and lime. Season with sea salt, to taste. Fill a medium-sized pot halfway with water and add the vinegar.

When it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and crack the eggs into the water. Poach for 3-4 minutes then remove with a slotted spoon. While you are waiting for the water to boil, make the hollandaise. Turn on a small element to high heat.

Place the egg yolks into a small frying pan (not on the heat!) and add the water. Hold the pan a few inches above the heat while whisking constantly. After about 1 minute the yolks will be frothy and start to thicken. Add the butter or ghee and, continuing to hold the pan above the heat, whisk until the hollandaise is thick, about 1 minute more. Whisk in the pureed chipotle peppers and lime juice and season to taste with sea salt. Place 2 sweet potato rounds on each plate then top with a tomato half, some guacamole, a poached egg, and some chipotle hollandaise. Add any of all of the optional toppings and serve immediately.

POSITIVE BEING THE ESSENTIAL OILS

Essential oil-based wellness solutions that empower you to dodge harmful chemicals, energize your life, ditch stress and negativity, and reclaim your natural radiance.

Th e Es s e n ti a l Oi ls

Essential oils have been used for thousands of years in various cultures for medicinal and health purposes.

Essential oil uses range from aromatherapy, personal beauty care and natural medicine treatments.

By David King

E Want to try out the power of essential oils for yourself?

We’ve got the link! All you have to do is purchase!

Mystic.com/Buy

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ssential oils are extracted directly from the bark, flower, fruit, leaf, seed or root of a plant or tree, and just one drop can have powerful health benefits. They are typically created through the process of distillation, which separates the oil and water-based compounds of a plant by steaming. Essential oils are highly concentrated oils that have a strong aroma. By concentrating the oils of these plants, you are literally separating the most powerful healing compounds of a plant into a single oil. For instance, in order to get 1 single 15ml bottle of rose essential oils it take 65 pounds of rose pedals!

Essential oils, you are harnessing the protective and healing powers of a plant.Essential oils are composed of very small molecules that can penetrate your cells, and some compounds in essential oils can even cross the blood-brain barrier.

They differ from fatty oils (like those in vegetables or nuts) that come from large molecules because they cannot penetrate your cells, so they are not therapeutic in the same manner.

POSITIVE BEING THE ESSENTIAL OILS

Natural Solutions Used

Pre-History

3500 bc

460 bc

1910

Man uses plants to meet basic needs

Egyptians use plant extracts for health, cosmetic, and religious purposes

Hippocrates, the father of medicine, uses plants with his patients

Renee Gattefosse learns that lavender can be used to soothe the skin

Modern Medicine Developed

1916-1918 Epidemics spread, including the flu pandemic which kills millions worldwide.

Polio and Smallpox vaccines emerge.

1940

2013

Germ theory leads to improved cleanliess and nutrition. Many lethal epidemics decline.

Harmful side-effects, recalls, and deaths from prescription medication rapidly rise.

A Return to Natural Solutions

Essential Oils

a timeline

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2008

2014

doTERRA sets a new standard with CPTG in response to unregulated essential oil standards.

CPTG oils empower. Research continues to support essential oils in holitstic healthcare.

POSITIVE BEING THE POWER OF PLANTS

Livi n g B r e ath i n g Lov i ng; The P ower of P la n ts

Incorporating different kinds of foliage around your space can substantially enhance one’s productivity, mood, and health.

By Drake Wood

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ouseplants have been going in and out of vogue ever since the early Greeks and Romans starting bringing their plants in from the outdoors. The Victorians loved their potted palms and the 70s wouldn’t have been the same without ferns and spider plants … everywhere. Current style dictates a lighter hand with the green things – sculptural stems and succulents rule the roost – but the truth is this: Houseplants should transcend trends. The benefits they confer should make us consider them a necessity rather than an object of décor, because honestly, good health should never be out of style. If you need

convincing, here are some of the ways that bringing plants inside helps us out. Inhaling brings oxygen into the body, exhaling releases carbon dioxide. During photosynthesis, plants do the opposite, of sorts: They absorb carbon dioxide and

(Top L) Elevating plants keep them in good sunlight. (Top R) Plants give a space beautiful color. (Bottom) Use plants against color to accentuate.

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release oxygen, making plants and people great partners when it comes to gasses.

Plants help to increase oxygen levels, and our bodies appreciate that. But here’s something to know: When photosynthesis stops at night, most plants switch things up and absorb oxygen and release carbon dioxide. However, a few special plants – like orchids, succulents and epiphytic bromeliads – flip that script and take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Meaning, use these plants in bedrooms to keep the oxygen flowing at night. In the great outdoors, plant roots tap the groundwater table for water which then evaporates through its leaves in a process known as transpiration.

Studies show that this accounts for about 10 percent of the moisture in the atmosphere! The same thing happens at home (minus the groundwater table part), which increases the humidity indoors. While this may sound like unfortunately and quite

unappealing during hot moist months, it’s a gift during drier months or if you live in an arid clime. According to Bayer Advanced, studies at the Agricultural University of Norway document that using plants in interior spaces decreases the incidence of dry skin, colds, sore throats and dry coughs. And other research reveals that higher absolute humidity is conducive for decreased survival and transmission of the flu virus. NASA has spent a lot of time researching air quality in sealed environments, which makes sense.

Extensive research by the space agency discovered a then-new concept in indoor air quality improvement in which plants play a pivtoal role: “Both plant leaves and roots are utilized in removing trace levels of toxic vapors from inside tightly sealed buildings. Low levels of chemicals such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde can be removed from indoor environments.

POSITIVE BEING THE POWER OF PLANTS

Online Personalities to inspire the indie planter in you

Insta: @ChelseasFlowerCrowns Twitter: @ChelseaHart

Insta: @FriederikChen Etsy: @FriederikChenCreates

Insta: @SpiritNectar Blog: www.SpiritNectar.com

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Houseplants have been going in and out of vogue ever since the early Greeks and Romans starting bringing their plants in from the outdoors. The Victorians loved their potted palms and the 70s wouldn’t have been the same without ferns and spider plants … everywhere.

Current style dictates a lighter hand with the green things – sculptural stems and succulents rule the roost – but the truth is this: Houseplants should transcend trends. The benefits they confer should make us consider them a necessity rather than an object of décor, because honestly, good health should never be out of style. If you need convincing, here are some of the ways that bringing plants inside helps us out.

Inhaling brings oxygen into the body, exhaling releases carbon dioxide. During photosynthesis, plants do the opposite, of sorts: They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, making plants and people great partners when it comes to gasses. Plants help to increase oxygen levels, and our bodies appreciate that. But here’s something to know: When photosynthesis stops at night, most plants switch things up and absorb oxygen and release carbon dioxide. However, a few special plants – like orchids, succulents and epiphytic bromeliads – flip that script and take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Meaning, use these plants in bedrooms to keep the oxygen flowing at night. In the great outdoors, plant roots tap the groundwater table for water which then evaporates through its leaves in a process known as transpiration. Studies show that this accounts for about 10 percent of the moisture in the atmosphere! The same thing happens at home (minus the groundwater table part), which increases the humidity indoors.

While this may sound unappealing during hot moist months, it’s a gift during drier months or if you live in an arid clime. According to Bayer Advanced, studies at the Agricultural University of Norway document that using plants in interior spaces decreases the incidence of dry skin, colds, sore throats and dry coughs.

And other research reveals that higher absolute humidity is conducive for decreased survival and transmission of the flu virus. Bringing flowers or a plant while visiting a hospital patient may be verging on cliché, but so effective are plants in helping surgery patients recover that one study recommends them as a “noninvasive, inexpensive, and effective complementary medicine for surgical patients.” Plants as medicine! The study, conducted at Kansas State University, found that viewing plants during recovery from surgery led to a significant improvement in physiologic responses as evidenced by lower systolic blood pressure, and lower ratings of pain, anxiety, and fatigue as compared to patients without plants in their rooms.

Another technique to decrease recovery time, as noted by Texas A&M University, is horticulture therapy in which patients are tasked with taking care of plants. The patients who physically interact with plants experience a significantly reduced recovery time after medical procedures. What? How? A number of studies with both students and workers reveals that studying or working in the presence of plants can have a pretty dramatic effect. As with simply being in nature, being around plants improves concentration, memory and productivity. Being “under the influence of plants” can increase memory retention up to 20 percent, according to a University of Michigan study.

Meanwhile, two Norwegian studies found that worker productivity is greatly enhanced by the presence.

But here’s something to know: When photosynthesis stops at night, most plants switch things up and absorb oxygen and release carbon dioxide. However, a few

POSITIVE BEING THE POWER OF PLANTS

8 Best Plants to keep in your apartment

Peace Lily

Snake Plant

ZZ Plant

Great for small spaces and requires little sun for survival. The plant doesn’t require a lot of watering and thrives best not in direct sunlight.

Snake plants are great for the novice green thumb as they can thrive in environments with very low light and water.

Considered by some as the “Houseplant of the Future.” The lowest light plants available, only needs to be watered three times per month, and rarely attract pests.

Iron Plant

Cacti

Succulents

They boast dark leafy greens, and can add a visually striking aesthetic to any dark corner. They can survive in low lighting and very little water and poor soil.

Cacti are available in all sorts of wonderful shapes and sizes. It’s likely your apartment will be an environment to provide these plants with everything they need to thrive.

Popularity which can probably be attributed to their good looks and their no fuss All you need to keep them going is a bit of sunlight and water so often.

Bamboo

Pothos

Bamboo only needs water and shade to survive and creates a positive living environment. It is a living example of the feng shui elements of water, wood and earth.

They are perfect for hanging baskets or as a climbing plant. They have purifying qualities, and can survive in a variety of lighting conditions.

Curious which plant would best fit your space? Take our quiz to find out which will thrive!

Mystic.com/ Quiz-Apt-Plants

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You Are Energy Explorations into the appreciation of the spirit, and personal energies, and how to find harmony within it.

36 The Meditation Guide

Channel your inner calm and build your practice

40 Harness Your Crystal’s Energies

These beautiful little rocks will change your life

47 Tend to your chakras

Align and love your seven chakras every day

YOU ARE ENERGY the meditation guide

“Yoga Chick� Illustration by Eric De Barros

t h e med i tati on gu i de

An illustrative approach to channeling your inner meditator - gather your mat (or a blanket will do!) any beloved spiritual trinkets (crystals, momentos, maybe your snoozing cat) and practice, practice, practice!

By melissa johnson

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YOU ARE ENERGY the meditation guide

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YOU ARE ENERGY crystal’s energies

h a rn essi n g your crysta l’ s e n e rgies

Learning and understanding the metaphysical properties of natural crystals can greatly enhance your spirit, health, energy, and connection to the world for the better!

By Ben Fields

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hether it’s a post-lunchtime slump, an early-evening stupor, or unable to drag ourselves out of bed in the morning due to intense lethargy, we all have time we feel zapped of energy.

Much has been written about certain ‘superfoods’ that can help us combat lapses of energy and bouts of tiredness. Comparatively less has been written about the effectiveness of crystals in fighting fatigue and providing a boost in energy. Take a look at the following ten crystals which have proven to be potent assets in uplifting energy and spirits. Green Tourmaline, with its rich green hue, tourmaline is a popular gemstone in the making of jewellery. As well as looking unduly beautiful, tourmaline is said to be a potent energy provider.

Its healing properties help dispel toxins from the body, restore balance and bring back positive energy, making us feel more

energised. Citrine, ranging from lighter yellows to darker browns, citrine crystals are one of the most aesthetically stunning crystals in existence. It is also believed to be one of the most energy-boosting.

Citrine works as a powerful regenerator of the cells of the body and by regenerating the cells it acts as an effective chakra activator and energiser. Amber is widely believed that crystals which are naturally red, orange and yellow are the most effective in terms of boosting energy and power. When we think of citrus-coloured gemstones, amber immediately springs to mind. With its golden hues, this stunning crystal is meant to be one of the most dynamic and stimulating and when placed in our presence can make us feel much more energised and positive. Carnelian; if you are wanting to boost your energy levels through crystals, carnelian is a fabulous crystal to work with. This slightly translu

(Top) Quartz crystals are the most abundant and the best overall healers.

(Bottom) Organizing your crystals specifically together can enhance their energies in your space.

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YOU ARE ENERGY crystal’s energies

The Power of Stones Healing stones are a holistic, natural approach to maintaining harmony within the body-mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. For thousands of years, ancient civilizations have used the structure, wavelength, and frequency of these naturally formed stones to match the different frequencies of the various parts of our body.

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Amethyst

Seventh Chakra

Turquoise

Sixth Chakra

Emerald

Fifth Chakra

Golden Calcite

Fourth Chakra

Moonstone

Third Chakra

Tiger’s Eye

Second Chakra

First Chakra

Wondering which of your chakras needs the most healing? Take our online quiz to find out!

Mystic.com/Chakra-Quiz

Clear Quarts

Bloodstone

Citrine

Topaz

Rose Quarts

Sodalite

Azurite

Diamond

Black Obsidian

Coral

Citrine

Jade

Aquamarine

Lapis Lazuli

Selenite

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I n need o f a m o n t h ly pi ck- m e- u p ?

There are subscription boxes for everything. But there are none like Goddess Provisions - the monthly subscription box that brings to your door art, magic, energy, and touches of nature.

By Anne King

Featured October Box

This month’s GoddessProvisions box is packed with tools that will make your spirit shine like the moonlight and help you drift into the sweetest of dreams.

Check out these amazing creators, whose products are in the box, but also have a myriad of other incredible products! Happy exploring!

Chocolita Chocolate

A delicious blend of chocolate and herbs; certified organic & vegan

Little Moon Essentials

All Natural, cruelty free, planet friendly, and handmade bath and body

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Soapy Layne

Natural, vegan, cruelty-free plant based botanical skin care products

Calm-A-Mama

Organic and alcohol-free herbal supplements for mamas and babes

Starseed Supply

Metaphysical patches and pins for spiritual renegades

Zenned Out Jewelry

Handmade jewelry with meaning and with a soulful purpose

Rachel Brathen, a wife, social media icon, mother, yoga teacher, writer, life coach.

Dear Universe, Thank You yoga master, social media influencer, puppy lover, and new mother an interview with rachel brathen

By Kendra Mac

S

ometimes I can’t believe I get to have all of this. There were so many times in my life where I doubted if I was in the right place. And there were dark moments, heavy times where I lost faith in absolutely everything. My best friend died and then my grandmother and then my dog and then my mom tried to commit suicide. All in one year. I remember a moment when I was walking the dogs and felt this overwhelming longing to step out into the ocean and never come back. I was on the north shore and it’s all cliffs and the sea was dark and rough. I remember the feeling of wanting to disappear so well because it was a brand new one. For the first moment in my life I wasn’t sure I wanted to continue doing this… This life. I was so sad and in it so deep I just couldn’t see how I would ever climb my way out. I was just so sad, every day.

I took my shoes off and put my feet in the cold water. Then Ringo barked and I realized, well, I can’t die now. Where would the dogs go? There would be no

Rachel and her beloved dog and travel companion, ringo.

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Rachel and her husband, dennis, who bonded over their love and interest for surfing.

one to bring them back home. So I walked back to the car and drove away. I came back home and told Dennis “I just contemplated walking out into the ocean. I think I need help now”. The panic I saw in his eyes is something I never want to invoke in another human being ever again. So. I got help. Within five minutes my friend Rose was there and we laid on the floor in a pile, her Dennis and I. Rose told me over and over; “it’s just a wave. It’s a wave of grief. We will ride it out together. It will pass soon.” So we stayed there, like that. I wailed and they just held me.

Eventually the pain diminished enough for me to take a breath and realize; I don’t want to die. Not at all. I want to live. I just have to learn how to cope with these waves as they come. I need to learn how to surf.

Well. It’s been a few years and the waves still come.

I had one a moment ago, just before writing this. I’m sitting here with another bestie. She took this picture.

I have a Lea Luna in my life and it makes everything that came before feel purposeful. It still hurts like hell but without it… I wouldn’t be here. With my feet in the sand. Holding a love so big I don’t know how I ever lived without it.

We have officially been open for just over eight months and are getting ready to host our first Island Yoga Teacher Training in just a few weeks! Now that we’re settled in, I want to take a moment to thank our designer Kelly Robinson (she was also the doula that helped bring Lea Luna to the world!). From start to finish, we could have never completed the studio without her. May she never look in the mirror and think “I should lose five pounds”. Never ever. May she never feel the urge to hold her stomach in while on the beach in a bikini. May she never diet, or count calories, or obsess over her body. May she never spend even a second staring at herself in the mirror on a treadmill thinking about her weight. May she turn her face to the sun and her attention to the moment, fully soaking up the warmth of each summer day.

May she move her body only in ways that bring her joy. May she sweat, not to look good, but to feel good. May she enjoy dessert and all that’s sweet in life but may she eat to enjoy, not to escape. May she look in the mirror and see the beauty of her own being – every day. May she set roots anchored so deep within her self-worth that no magazine or tv-ad or celebrity or social media platform will ever make her feel otherwise.

May she know her worth, and may she speak it, and uphold others to reflect it back her way.

October 18, 2017 Kendra

Hi Rachel! You are like a spiritual volunteer, sharing your open and genuine heart not only with the Internet galaxy, but also with all those you encounter, dogs included! YOU are inspiring! Who inspires you?

Rachel

I get that question a lot and I always come back to the same answer, it’s always my students. They make the effort to come to my classes and retreats. I have a core group of dedicated people. They are the reason I do what I do everyday.

Kendra

You said being vulnerable allows for healing and when you share your story, you let it go, and when you share your emotions it creates human connection.

How do you make friends with vulnerability?

Rachel teaching a class, forming the participants in an inclusive circle

Rachel

It’s the whole act of actually feeling and fully experiencing life. You can’t, if you aren’t vulnerable to it. People look at vulnerability as something that is really scary and terrifying because it means you are open to pain, grief, sorrow or sadness, or whatever. But, it also means you are open to love and magic and all the amazing things that the Universe is ready to throw your way everyday. So if you close off to one side, you close off to both. Vulnerability is a good thing.

The yoga girl studios also include a store, which is open to any customer.

The yoga girl studio includes a full bar, for entertaining and events.

Kendra

With an intense past year of traveling 40+ weeks, running four businesses and two non-profits in three countries: Sgt Pepper’s Friends, 109, oneOeight to name a few, working on a second book, opening a yoga studio, hosting retreats and teaching workshops, managing a massive social media following of over two million, and enjoying life newly married… how do you juggle it all and maintain a practice of self-love?

Rachel

For me, I think routine is a huge, huge part of that. I make sure I have time to practice everyday and that I get to walk my dogs or go for a run or do whatever it is I need to do to feel like I had my “me time.” As soon as that goes out the window everything just starts to seem crappy. Being on the go and traveling constantly, at least for me, makes everything much more difficult. It’s just draining. My goal for next year is to travel less and more mindfully when I do, so it doesn’t seem so crazy all the time.

“We go where love is. And where there is fear, we inquire.”

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rachel enjoys spending time with her belly out, letting it soak in the sun and the moon’s light

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“It’s a girl…

And she is going to change the course of the whole universe.”

Rachel is planning a homebirth, with her husband dennis, and a midwife.

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Join the Tribe!

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Sgt. Pepper’s Friends

Island Yoga

A team of dedicated animal-lovers scour Aruba for lost fur-babies to be adopted by new loving families!

A beautiful space in aruba that encourages love and work, the dedication to loving one’s self.

Kendra

I believe when people feel their body and breathe correctly, they may feel their emotions and get to know themselves on a deeper level. As a yoga teacher what is your intention for your students and followers?

Rachel

I always come back to the message of self-love. It comes back to learning how to deal with our past and noticing the patterns that hold us back. It’s something that we can bring out in the practice because a lot of it gets stuck in the body.

The yoga mat is a really good place to start. I think it’s a good accessible tool.

Kendra

In The Body Book, Cameron Diaz emphasizes health, fitness, food and fun, and most importantly loving your amazing body! What is your relationship to your body?

Rachel

It’s always changing: the body changes and our relationship with it. It really depends on how I feel as a whole in life. I think it’s one of the biggest challenges for a woman no matter where you are or what your life looks like to accept and embrace it fully. It’s really the foundation for how we move through life. Either we are at peace with who we are and from there we can manifest really good things, or we are in this constant war and struggle. It’s really hard to create really good things in life and to live the life that you dream of if you’re constantly at war with yourself. And that’s something that I see EVERYWHERE. And can you find a practice of self-love first? If it’s yoga or meditation or whatever works for you. And from there, inspire positive change if you need it.

Kendra

You are 27 years old and radiant, what are your thoughts on aging?

Rachel

I’ve always felt older than I am, even when I was 16. Even when I was really young, I never had that fear of aging. Even now, I’m excited about reaching this space of being married, and eventually having kids and a house. It’s a nice change. I look forward to it.

Kendra

Thinking back on your career so far, is there a specific event or memory that warms your heart?

Rachel

One O Eight TV your home for online yoga, healing and nourishment. Full of teachers all around the world practicing with you.

There are so many! I went on a tour across the US earlier this year when I released the book, and I taught these huge classes of hundreds and hundreds of people. There were so many really intimate, vulnerable classes in a room with 700 people and people don’t expect that to happen, but I was continually blown away by how vulnerable people allow themselves to be in a space full of other people they don’t know. We had this one guy that was a highlight on the tour, a war veteran. He came to class all alone, stood in line afterward, and waited the three to four hours it takes if you want to get your book signed and a picture.

As soon as I saw him, I was so happy because we don’t get that many guys and he’s this big, bearded military man. We hugged and he just started crying. It was very genuine. He found yoga through my Instagram account, and he said how yoga changed his life. Yoga is really for everyone. And those moments when you get that unexpected person who walks into class really feeling the same as I do, it’s the most amazing thing.

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(Top L) Rachel enjoying going through her motions with a new addition (Top R) Dennis and Luna spending a beach day (Bottom L) Rachel and Luna begin showing off to the world (Bottom R) Rachel, Luna, and Rachel’s mother display the lineage

“People are looking for something genuine and I don’t hesitate to share the real stuff,” she says. “On social media everyone weighs 100lb, goes to the gym and is fulfilled. But no one’s life is like that really, not even a Victoria’s Secret model.” Behind Rachel’s idyllic existence is, she insists, a girl with pain and insecurities, just like everyone else. As a teenager growing up in Stockholm, she agonised over her weight and fell off the rails in dramatic style. There were screaming rows with her parents, a drink driving offence, drugs, and a boyfriend who beat her up. “It could have been really bad,” she says. At 18, her mother dispatched her on a week’s meditation course, an unusual choice, but exactly what Rachel needed. “In that week I realised there was something better out there than make-up and boys and alcohol,” she says. For someone who shares the intimacies of her life three times a day on social media, Rachel comes across as surprisingly shy. She thinks hard before answering questions and at times her voice wavers, particularly when talking about her family.

Her childhood was transient and unsettled, she says, with her parents divorcing when she was two. Her mother’s new lover died in a plane crash, and then both parents remarried and had two daughters each before divorcing again. The meditation course that saved her had, she says, an instant calming effect. She later discovered yoga while travelling in Costa Rica. “Some people have that life changing epiphany with one yoga class but I didn’t,” she says. “It’s hard at first, you can’t do any of the poses or even breathe.”

As her interest grew, however, she found it relieved her chronic back pain and also strengthened her mentally. She met Dennis, who owns a surf shop, soon afterwards, on a family holiday to Aruba, and within days they were living together. Her parents supported the union from the start, even though she was just 21. To occupy herself in her new life (she married Dennis in a Swedish castle last year), she qualified as a yoga teacher but it was quite by accident, she insists, that she became famous on Instagram. Her first post, a picture of her dog in 2012, got zero response. It was only when she began to share her (often negative) emotions that her popularity took off. She attributes her success as a yoga teacher – her bi-montly retreats are always over-subscribed – to her vulnerability, something she shares with her classes.

On Instagram last week she listed the yoga poses she’s currently struggling with, including camel, back bends and “Warrior 3”.

If you know Brathen better as Yoga Girl, you’re one of 2 million. Brathen has (what she calls) the largest yoga Instagram in the world, and she uses it to share wisdom, inspiration, and, most recently, prenatal yoga poses. On top of this, Brathen hosts yoga classes, retreats, and workshops, and publishes yoga books, so it’s clear she’s committed to the craft. And judging from the amount her community grew last year, her influence isn’t waning.

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Art piece by Mariano Peccinetti, connecting the naked soul to the sparks and mysteries of the nebulas and galaxies.

out of the shadows For some, the solar eclipse is simply a once in a lifetime event that draws thousands outside. For these artists, the eclipse was something of magic, stirring something inside themselves that they were able to record.

By kalliopi monoyios

It’s been more

than a full lunar month since the spectacular solar eclipse of 2017 paraded its way across the United States to the shouts and cheers of millions of elated viewers. In the words of one person I shared the experience with, it was “the bucket list item I never knew I had.”

At its longest, totality lasted a tantalizingly short 2 minutes and 40 seconds. Almost as quickly, it seemed, after all the enormous hype about traffic jams and small-town bottlenecks, the eclipse became yesterday’s news. But a few of us couldn’t let go so fast.

We lingered on the scene, kicking the dirt and replaying the thrill of daytime darkness over and over again in our minds. When we piled into our cars to drive home under the light of the now mundane afternoon sun, I was itching to relive the event through art.

Sure enough, later, the beautiful art started popping up under the hostages #eclipse2017 and #eclipseart. Here, I present a selection of the pieces I encountered ranging from representational to abstract. Each one captures some aspect of the eclipse I found riveting: the sun’s corona, the bizarre light, the crescent-shaped shadows, or the sheer cheekiness of our moon photobombing the star of our solar system.

Julius Kähkönen created this surreal timeline, placing himself in front of the evolving eclipse as it spans

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over a bustling cityscape.

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“Even if you know what is happening, why it’s happening is a different question, isn’t it?”

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A total solar eclipse is a cosmic coincidence with stunning visual effects for viewers on Earth. When the moon passes in front of the sun and blocks it completely, it casts a shadow onto our planet that plunges areas into a darkness that feels like nighttime in mid-day. What causes this extraordinary phenomenon?

Several things need to occur at once to create a total solar eclipse. First, the moon needs to be exactly the right size to block the sun. Next, the sun, moon, and Earth need to line up in a straight line, or nearly so, with the moon between the sun and Earth. Finally, to see the full eclipse, you need to be standing in the correct spot on Earth.

Lucky for us, our moon is the perfect size. When it passes in front of the sun, it exactly covers the sun’s central disk, while letting the corona shine out around it in a spectacular display. The two bodies aren’t really the same size, of course: the sun is 400 times the diameter of the moon. But it’s also 400 times farther away from us, and this relationship between size and distance makes the sun and the moon appear the same size.

It’s a wonderful coincidence, and should not be taken for granted—Earth is the only planet in our solar system with a moon the proper size and distance to cause the striking solar eclipses we see.

The motions of sun, moon, and Earth bring the three bodies into the correct alignment about once every 18 months. These are the times when eclipses can happen. As the daytime moon passes in front of the sun, it begins to cast a partial shadow (called the penumbra) onto Earth. At the height of the eclipse, the sun’s light is entirely blocked, and the moon casts a full shadow called the umbra.

The moon’s full shadow hits only a small part of our planet, however. The matched sizing of the sun and moon results in their perfect alignment being visible from only a limited region. The area from where you can see the total eclipse is never more than 167 miles wide, and is usually less. Outside that area you’ll see only a partial eclipse, or none at all.

This area is not static, because the moon and Earth are not fixed objects: the moon orbits Earth and Earth orbits the sun, in addition to spinning on its axis. These motions continue during an eclipse, so the spot on Earth where the moon’s shadow falls traces a curved path across the planet. This is the path of totality, the only vantage from which you can witness.

The Sun’s diameter is about 400 times that of the Moon. The Sun is also (on average) about 400 times farther away. As a result, the two bodies appear almost exactly the same angular size in the sky — about ½°, roughly half the width of your pinky finger seen at arm’s length. This truly remarkable coincidence is what gives us total solar eclipses.

If the Moon were slightly smaller or orbited a little farther away from Earth, it would never completely cover the solar disk. If the Moon were a little larger or orbited a bit closer to Earth, it would block much of the solar corona during totality, and eclipses wouldn’t be nearly as spectacular.

Of course the Moon doesn’t totally eclipse the Sun every month — if it did, seeing totality wouldn’t be as much of a thrill. And even when the lunar disk encroaches on the Sun, it doesn’t always completely cover the solar disk. In fact, at new Moon — the only lunar phase when a solar eclipse can occur — the Moon usually misses the Sun altogether.

Given all the variables, it’s almost surprising that we see eclipses at all. The variability in the apparent size of the Sun and Moon doesn’t preclude a monthly solar eclipse. What does is the tilt of the Moon’s orbit, which is about 5° to the plane of Earth’s orbit around the Sun or, equivalently, the Sun’s apparent path around the sky as seen from Earth. (This path is called the ecliptic, for reasons that will become obvious in a moment.)

More often than not, the new Moon passes above or below the Sun, and the lunar shadow misses Earth completely. Here, at last, a solar eclipse is possible, though the Moon can pass through a node without the eclipse being total or annular — a partial eclipse can occur instead.

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A Solar Eclipse occurs in nature as a phenomenon when the Moon enters between the Sun and the Earth therefore blocking (or better thinking as filtrating) the light of the Sun. In astrology a Solar Eclipse is a very powerful New Moon, while every month has a new Moon, a solar eclipse occurs approximately every six months.

It can be seen as a very powerful New Moon where important beginnings or endings occur, it is the perfect time to work magic in your life especially related with previous thoughts and ideas that were holding you back. You will imagine how a solar eclipse works by imagining the following narrative.

You remember your old self, the thoughts you made and the actions that these thoughts have led you to take. You have all the ideas about yourself who you want to be and what you want to do with your future. All these ideas and thoughts-the past, present and futurecoexist during this stage.

The solar eclipse magic will give you the power when you are ready to break this cocoon and will give you the boost to completely transform into a new form, the butterfly.

Hence, the Solar Eclipse magic is the perfect timing for a Metamorphosis, transcendence to a new state of being. Cutting down all the restraints that were bounding you to the ground and give you the breeze to flip your wings and fly and explore the world with a new set of wise eyes. A Solar eclipse is often described in alchemic and occult texts as the Alchemical Wedding where the Sun marries the Moon, a perfect balance. A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth is between the Sun and the Moon and a lunar eclipse can only occur on a Full Moon, a very special Full Moon.

You can understand the power of a lunar eclipse with this parallel, if a Solar eclipse challenges your logic and your authority in your life a lunar eclipse will challenge your emotional readiness for a change.

During a lunar eclipse a witch will face his/her insecurity, you must not only be able to imagine that a change can occur and what will this change bring but you must also have the willpower to proclaim: “I am ready and perfectly prepared for this change and I will make it happen”. A lunar eclipse is the perfect timing to face the past and find out the roots of your fears/insecurities, how they are

Watercolor representation by Amirra Malak

“But of course, artists have a great skill of absorbing everything”

“99% Totality,” cut paper

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collage sketch. Sarah Winkler

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“Beach Eclipse” by Karen Lynch creates a surreal scene

“I would say most people still find it, in a way, a sign of some kind of providence.”

To take it one step further you may wish to initiate a contact with the Divine Forces. I will use Fairies as an example as they are the beings that I have most experience working with during my life. So during an eclipse you can establish your first connection with the Fairies. Be aware that you must know well why you want to contact fairies and please bear in mind that curiosity is not a good reason.

For all of you wo are interested about the Fairies or Sidhe I will prepare a series of articles about them however I am facing some major life changes at the moment and my time is limited (you can blame the eclipses for that. In case you want more information about the Fairies you can always contact the Greek Alchemist who will pass the message to me.

N

“Eclipse;” pen & ink. By Johanna Bloom

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ow to initiate contact with the Faeries during the eclipse go out in a place which feels familiar and alive. By that I mean a place in Nature that you love either because you felt close with the Fae or because you have really good memories of that place (for example having a good time) or just because that place feels like home. If you don’t feel that there is a specific place in mind then it is better to stay home and meditate about your connection with the Fairies. I am perfectly sure that if you truly want to contact the Fairies your time will come.

When you arrive at your favorite place make sure you bring an offering.

Any offering that you feel that would be appropriate. From my experience sugar, honey, ribbons, wine, milk and fresh fruit are well accepted. Now find a place that feels “right” as with the fairies you must always embrace your intuition. Close your eyes and breathe.

Now breathe slowly and deeply. Feel your surroundings, feel the life force in the wind, the trees, the grass, the stones, the water, the ground, the flowers, the animals.

Then extend your mind to those beings that protect this place that surround everything. The guardians, protectors, allies of the Forest, the light that penetrates the darkness, the life that accompanies and embraces all life and there you are Part of the circle, part of life, there breathing deeply and slowly, alive! A wind blowing on your head, a smell of flowers, raindrops or a leaf dropping will be the signs you seek when you open your

Japanese wood block print by Debra Bowden

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It started about noon. On top of Mount Batte, We were all exclaiming. Someone had a cardboard And a pin, and we all cried out when the sun Appeared in tiny form on the notebook cover.

It was hard to believe. The high school teacher We’d met called it a pinhole camera, People in the Renaissance loved to do that.

And when the moon had passed partly through We saw on a rock underneath a fir tree, Dozens of crescents—made the same way— Thousands! Even our straw hats produced A few as we moved them over the bare granite.

We shared chocolate, and one man from Maine Told a joke. Suns were everywhere—at our feet.

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Lauren Singer and Daniel Silverstein pose with a multitude of their products.

Think Outside the Box

The package-free shop located in Brooklyn, New York, is having people around the world look at their products differently.

By Drake Wood

“Trash is for tossers...”

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Singer’s waste from the past two years can fit in a 16 oz mason jar

I

bet a lot of you have heard of Lauren Singer by now, or perhaps you know her as the young New Yorker who can fit all of the trash she has produced over the last two years in a mason jar. I’ve been eagerly following her and her site, Trash is for Tossers, over the last months as Miss Singer has taken the webosphere by storm. Lauren’s obsession with trash, or rather the lack thereof, started while studying environmental studies and has become, not only her lifestyle, but her full time occupation. Apart from her work with Trash is for Tossers, she is also the CEO of her newly founded, The Simply Co., a non toxic, sustainable cleaning products company that just experienced immense success with Kickstarter, raising over four times their goal.

I was lucky to be put in touch with this busy revolutionary via a common friend, and we had a great Skype talk. While I had decided to play devil’s advocate and ask some critical questions, Singer was no easy nut to crack and served one well considered and articulated response after the next. Here it goes. I have discussed you and your work with several friends here in Berlin, and while everyone is admiring and celebrating what you do, there are always the skeptics. Many are full of questions and wonder how you deal with various daily scenarios, time constraints, availability of certain products and so on.

Some might say that living a trash-free lifestyle is easy for you, being a young, unattached woman, living in a metropolis like New York — and especially since this lifestyle has now become your job — as opposed to someone who is living outside of a city, with kids and a demanding job. What is your response to that? I started living like this when I was in college and also had a fulltime job and a full-time relationship, so I was definitely busy when I committed to this lifestyle. On the contrary I found that I saved a lot of time when I started living this way, because it forced me to plan everything better. Us ing my time more wisely, I realized how much time I had been wasting before. Planning my meals and my grocery lists gave me more time. It’s also a matter of priorities.

Instead of taking two hours out of the day to watch TV, I’ll get some exercise or go to the farmers market.

Once I graduated, I had a full time job and was out of the house between 7am and 9pm every day, but I managed to keep up the lifestyle because I made sure I was prepared. I knew I would be in the office all day, so I would always prepare all my snacks and lunches. This would not just save the time it takes to walk out of the office and grab food, it also made me eat healthier because I didn’t opt for trashy fast-food, and on top of that, it saved me lots of money. When you get food to go, you easily spend at least $8 to $15. Now I can buy almost a week’s worth of food at the farmer’s market for that. It’s a very interesting point. Food often becomes and issue or class and status. The biggest argument against making healthy food choices seems to be that it gets a lot more expensive as opposed to lesser quality, processed .

But when you eat processed food, it’s not real food. Your body doesn’t get the nutrients that it needs when you only eat empty calories. That way you’ll end up eating more food, more frequently, resulting in a higher food budget. Where are some good places to start for someone who would like to get on the path to producing less trash? The best place to start is by looking through your garbage to examine where the trash is coming from. You can’t start solving the problem of trash until you know what is causing it. For me, most of my trash consisted of food packaging, product packaging and food waste. To deal with it, I learned how to compost, and by that I eliminated my food waste. I started shopping all of my groceries in bulk or packaging free at the farmer’s market, and that way eliminated my food packaging.

Lastly, I learned to make my own body and cleaning products and through that eliminated most of my product packaging waste. By doing these three things, I eliminated essentially all of the trash I made.

The second thing I suggest is picking up the low hanging fruit, so doing little, one-time changes, such as getting reusable cloth bags instead of using disposable plastic or paper bags. Also, bringing a refillable bottle with you instead of buying water in plastic bottles, keeping a reusable coffee mug in your bag instead of getting take-away cups, and packing your lunch instead of buying take-away. All these things are easy to do and make a difference.

I also really recommend learning to make some of your own products, such as your own toothpaste and deodorant. I started a Youtube channel because a lot of people would argue that they didn’t have time. I would argue against, but now I can show them with my video that you can make toothpaste in under a minute, which is a lot quicker than going to the store, getting it and coming back.

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Think Outside the Box

Zero Waste is not something that happens overnight, it’s a process. It takes time to do your research and find suitable alternatives. I’ve found it helps a lot to focus on one thing or area in your house at a time, otherwise, you can seriously overwhelm yourself which in turn makes you want to give up zero waste altogether.

Last year I focused on our bathroom waste.

I kept a record of the items that ended up in our bathroom bin and then researched zero waste alternatives. I was particularly inspired by Bea Johnson’s book called Zero Waste Home. Bea takes zero waste to the extreme but she also has a lot of practical tips and tricks in her book. I finished reading her book last year and now use it as a reference for when I want to make a switch to something zero waste.

One switch that I’m particularly happy with is my makeup remover. Previously, I had been using baby wipes, I know awful right! I used them because they were cheaper than makeup remover wipes and they were quick and easy to use. However, the waste in our bin used to really pile up which I hated. That and the fact that baby wipes aren’t recyclable.

Baby wipes were labelled “the biggest villain of 2015” by the Guardian. The wipes aren’t biodegradable which means they often end up blocking up sewers or getting washed up on our beaches. Basically, the world would be a much better place without them. In my search for an alternative, I came across a website called Cheeky Wipes. They sell washable bamboo baby wipes which I purchased. I use them with my coconut oil.

I have now stopped using any sort of shop bought exfoliators on my body and instead, I just use my *wooden body brush. Not only is it fantastic for your skin but it’s also cheap. Once you have bought your brush that’s all you need. There are lots of benefits to body brushing including stimulating your lymphatic system, cleaning pores, reduces cellulite and increasing your circulation. When it comes to zero waste for hair removal there are five main options… buy a *safety razor, buy an epilator, buy an electronic shaver, undergo laser hair removal or stop shaving! Personally, I opted for the epilator but oh my life does it hurt!

I have been using it for a few months now but if anything the pain seems to be getting worse rather than better. It does help if you have a bath before you epilate but only marginally. I’m finding myself avoiding it for as long as possible which isn’t really sustainable, especially as we will soon be going into Spring and Summer. On the plus side, it’s a plugin epilator so I don’t have to worry about battery waste for it. Although we have just purchased a reusable battery unit, which I’m very pleased with but that’s another post.

I’m thinking I may have to bite the bullet and purchase a safety razor although they do scare me.

Maybe I could use a combination of the two? One of my zero waste switches that I’m most proud of is making the switch to reusable sanitary pads. Granted this one isn’t for everyone but personally, I’d never go back to using disposables. I have slowly built up my stash and I haven’t used a disposable pad for well over a year now. I have tested a variety of different pads and definitely have

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Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is an excellent organic and natural product that can be used almost anywhere! It can be used as makeup remover, deep conditioner, lotion, and many more. It is antifungal and antibacterial, which is great for the skin!

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Compostable Toothbrushes

These amazing compostable toothbrushes are harvested from bamboo. They are sustainably grown and panda-friendly, and the handles are completely biodegradable! They are also naturally antimicrobial. Better yet, the company can customize and laser anything you want into the handle!

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Biodegradable Soap Dr. Bronner’s Liquid Castile Soaps are made using pure coconut, olive, hemp, and jojoba oils. The result is a concentrated and completely biodegradable liquid soap that cleans gently, yet effectively, and can be used in a dizzying number of different ways!

Zero-Waste Beauty Be kind to your body, and the environment, with these all natural and compostable product replacements.

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Wooden Body Brush Dry body brushing helps shed dead skin cells (and encourages new cell renewal), which results in smoother and brighter skin.

It can also help with any pesky ingrown hairs. It assists in improving vascular blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.

5 Green Tea Green tea improves your skin complexion and makes your skin healthy. The antioxidants and tannins (an astringent) in green tea help treat puffy eyes as well as dark circles. Green tea has anti-aging and antioxidant benefits that can help delay signs of skin aging, such as sagging skin, sun damage, age spots, fine lines and wrinkles.

6 Silk Floss

Vรถmel is a German manufacturer selling plastic-free silk floss coated with beeswax. The floss is either sold in a tiny, yet very classy vial or as refills in small paper bags. Most zero waste bulk stores in Germany carry it, but you can also order it online.

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The Package-Free Shop has everything and anything one would need to live zero-waste.

Zero-Waste Kitchen Minimize your trips to the trash can, as well as add some dashes of color, with these reusable products!

Unsponge

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Also known as an Unsponge, these can be tossed in the wash when dirty. Made with printed cotton, terry cloth and a filler that won’t mildew. They’re easy to make if you want to customize the pattern yourself, otherwise Etsy has some super cute patterned ones!

3 Bee’s Wrap Glass Jars What I appreciate about glass is that it’s easy to see what’s inside.

Make sure lids are airtight and everything is dishwasher, freezer and microwave safe. They also show off the product immediately and easily, which can mean grabbing exactly what you need with ease.

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Beeswax is what gives these sheets of organic cotton material its sticking power.

The warmth of your hands helps you mold the wrap around food, bowls or plates. Washable and reusable over and over again. Plus, they’re super cute!

4 Bamboo Scrubber Brush This brush lasts longer and can be tossed into the compost when it finally wears out. The stiff bristles make it easy to scrub the tough stuff, and the long handle allows ease for getting into cups and mason jars.

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Think Outside the Box

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Unpaper Towels Also known as Unpaper towels, these have a fun print on one side and absorbent cotton terry cloth on the other. Snap them together in a roll or fold them up in a drawer (plastic snaps will not scratch surfaces). I truly believe that reducing our personal waste makes a difference.

6 Linen Bread Bags Natural linen is anti-microbial and keeps crusty bread fresh much better than plastic. Breathable.

Keeps the bread in the dark. Washable. Keeps bread from drying out.

Linen naturally attracts moisture.

When it comes to Zero Waste it is important to start slow. The ability to create absolutely no waste does involve some up front costs and is simply not easy.

However the benefits are well worth it. When you decide to finally convert to Zero Waste, take Budget Dumpster’s advice ans start with your kitchen! Please consider not every is going to be able to accomplish the ultimate goal of Zero waste, but simply minimizing your trash is just as important.

Composting is an essential tool in any Zero Waste kitchen. Food is a huge contributor to landfills and you will need to divert your contribution. Many do not compost for the fear of the smell, but that no longer can be an excuse, especially if you have a backyard. If you don’t, there are many composting products on the market today that will not only make easy, but eliminate the odor. If you refuse to compost, well plan on eating every morsel of every meal.

You purchase shopping containers that you will use every single time or you can go the extra green mile and re-purpose containers to use while you shop. Finding what works for your needs is likely to take some trial and error. As you shop with your reusable containers, you will be able to showcase your zero waste efforts, hopefully encouraging others to do the same. Your Zero Waste shopping does not need to happen in the traditional sense.

Many Zero Waste kitchens take advantage of online ordering. If you are interested in the future of Zero Waste shopping, check out this website, which is dedicated to delivering products in a zero waste fashion.

When you do decide to purchase an item, try to buy in bulk whenever possible. This saves packaging, money, trips to store and from running out! Some experienced Zero Wasters only go to the store a handful of times in a year. Now this does not mean everything, but whenever possible try to make a product that you would purchase at the store from scratch. This will save on packaging and give you a sense of achievement. From bread to canning fruits and vegetables, to even cereal, all are very easy to make and much more affordable. This will also save you from all the gas lost from running to the grocery store just for bread and other staple foods.

Paper towels, plates, napkins and plastic wraps are the most the biggest violations in a Zero Waste kitchen. These items are obviously very convenient, but at the end of the day, they are adding to our rapidly filling landfills. There are some great alternatives to these wasteful products that are much more effective. Living with Zero Waste is easy and results in a simpler life for you. The kitchen can be a very wasteful place and it will take thousands of kitchen to make an actual impact.

However there has to be the first friend in every group that starts a zero waste kitchen and why can’t that be you? What about when you travel by plane? How do you avoid being wasteful?

Most airlines don’t offer any complimentary snacks or drinks anymore, and if they do, airplane food is crap, so I will bring my own anyway. I will for example take a sandwich wrapped in a napkin or a salad in a mason jar and a small snack — as well as my jar for water and drinks. My attempt to play Devil’s advocate seems

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Want to know how we ship from package-free shop #wastefree style? We ship completely plastic free.

We only use post-consumer packing materials to ship our products from us to our customers! We use the boxes that we receive our inventory in (ex, customers might receive their toothbrush in a dental floss box!), boxes that we got from our neighbors, even boxes that we found in the recycling bin outside of our shop, if it’s useable, we use it! Everything is 100% recyclable and 100% compostable. We try not to put any packing materials inside of shipping boxes, but for any orders that are fragile, we use post-consumer 100% recyclable and 100% compostable paper packing materials inside of our boxes. We seal our boxes with non-reinforced paper tape that is activated by water using a plant based glue. It is 100% recyclable, compostable, and plastic free.

We require that all shipments to Package Free Shop come 100% plastic free (that includes bio-based or compostable plastics as well). The less packaging the better. All shipments that are sent to us that violate these guidelines will be returned to the brands and their products will not be put on the shelf. Harsh? Maybe on the brands, but not on the environment, and to us, that comes first. Once we ship a package to customers we cannot control what they do with the packaging materials but we do include a note on post-consumer paper encouraging all of our customers to reuse, compost, or recycle all packing materials. At Package Free, we believe that living a Zero Waste l

ifestyle should be, easy, cost-effective, and fun! For us living a package free life means that we are avoiding single use plastic and disposable products to the best of our ability. We ship everything 100% plastic free in an upcycled or 100% post consumer box with paper wrapping and paper tape. All of our shipping materials are 100% recyclable and compostable. We do not accept returns or issue refunds, however, if you have any issues with your product, please email us and we will address these on a case-by-case basis. While the journey towards zero waste is a continuous one, these alternatives to wasteful items will make it a little easier.

All of these items have been tried, tested, and approved by me. When making these swaps keep in mind what to do with your old items – don’t throw them away! Use up mentioned before, that as a paying customer you should be able to have things served how you want them. Are your special requests usually granted with a smile, or do you find that some people get irritated?

The things I mainly buy out are coffee and drinks at a bar. When I ask to have my coffee made in a

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old products, recycle, donate, give away or sell the rest.

The purpose of zero waste is to prevent as much matter from heading to the landfill as possible. Here are some of my recommended swaps to make in the area of personal hygiene. So how did I get here? I was an Environmental Studies major in College and have always been interested in the environment, but I made the conscious decision to live Zero Waste in 2012 when a fellow Environmental Studies classmate would bring lunch to class every week in a single use plastic bag, a disposable water bottle, and a plastic takeout container. I would sit there and think, we are supposed to be the future of this planet and here we are with our trash, messing it up.

Then I learned about the Zero Waste Home, a family in California that was producing little to no garbage, it was this Aha! moment for me. I wanted to lessen my impact, so I started my Zero Waste journey. This is when I really decided that I not only needed to claim to love the environment, but actually live like I love the environment. Trash is for Tossers is my attempt. It will document my Zero Waste journey and show that leading a Zero Waste lifestyle is simple, cost-effective, timely, fun, & entirely possible for everyone and anyone. If I can do it, anyone can!

How do I define zero waste? To me, zero waste means that I do not produce any garbage. No sending anything to landfill, no throwing anything in a trash can, nothing. However, I do recycle and compost.

(L) Wooden crates and painted walls give the store decor without the waste. (R) A loyal customer and popular #zerowaste guru, John Hardy, poses with his bag.

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All plastic has been repurposed from recycled material

Reusable jars can be brought back to the store to be recycled, or used for every day use

Containers are provided for those who don’t have their own, and special discounts for those who refill.

All ingredients are organic and vegan, and made sure to be harvested responsibly.

A shot of the shelfs of products in the store.

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MYSTIC

horoscopes

se pt em b e r astrology Wondering why the stars are aligned a certain way, and why you’re feeling the way you’re feeling? Check out your monthly horoscope for some insights!

By Anne King

aeries

taurus

gemini

cancer

September is major for your relationships, Aries—both romantic and platonic.

Romance is in the air this month; however, you have a lot of work to focus on, too.

September brings opportunities to connect with your family, as well as to connect with a crush.

An important conversation will move forward this month, Cancer.

leo

virgo

libra

scorpio

September is all about your relationship to cash, as well as communication.

Welcome to Virgo season! You’re reconnecting with yourself in a major way this month

Libra season is almost here! Rest up—plenty of parties are coming soon.

You’ll be connecting with lots of friends this month, but try to make time to rest and spend quality time with yourself as well.

saggitarius

capricorn

aquarius

pisces

You’re working hard this month, but plenty of opportunities to socialize will arrive, too.

September is an exciting month for work. Make time to reflect on your professional goals.

It’s time to try new things, Aquarius. Take a risk this month!

It’s a powerful and emotional month, Pisces: You’ll be letting go of a lot of baggage.

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