The Eden January 2025 by Maryam Morrison

JANUARY 2025

T H E

THE LAW OF GENDER by George Lizos

Morgan

Fairchild A Legacy of Beauty and Resilience

@TheEdenMagazine

TheEdenMagazine

@TheEdenMagazine

Maryam Morrison

Dina Morrone

Dr. Rob Moir

Emilie Macas

Susanna Schroadter

Polly Wirum

Alexia Melocchi

Zee

Jan Wakefiled

Joe Santos, Jr.

Dulce Garcia-Morman

Nikki Pattillo

Edward Hakopian

Artin Mardirosian

Brad wallace

Philip Smith

Sherri Cortland

Benjamin D.Buren

Sheri Determan

Ben Rollins

Lisa Joy Walton

Greg Doherty

JSquared Photography @j2pix

MEET OUR TEAM

EDEN T H E

Since 2010

The Eden Magazine is a free online publication is your guide to healthy living, spiritual awareness, compassion and love for all living beings, holistic lifestyle, mindfulness, organic living, positive thinking, sustainability, and personal development Founder & Editor-in-Chief Maryam Morrison Executive Editor/Contributing Writer Dina Morrone Contributing Writers Sadhguru, Isha Foundation Dulce Garcia-Morman Susanna Schroadter Alexia Melocchi Sherri Cortland Joe Santos, Jr. Dr. Rob Moir Emilie Macas Jan Wakefiled Nikki Pattillo Polly Wirum zee Guest Writer Philip Smith Contributing Stylists + Makeup Artist Edward Hakopian Lisa Joy Walton Graphics & Photography JSquared Photography @j2pix (Los Angeles) Artin Mardirosian (Nexision) (Los Angeles) Benjamin D. Buren – AliveStudios.Com (Denver, SanFrancisco, Boston) Sheri Determan (Los Angeles) Greg Doherty (Los Vegas) Ben Rollins (Atlanta) Web developer Brad wallace https://bradwallacedesign.com/ 325 N. Maple Dr. Po Box 5132 Beverly Hills, CA 90209

To purchase a copy, visit us at www.theedenmagazine.com Eden Magazine is a non-profit monthly online magazine that aims to promote a better environment in which humans live in peace and harmony with other living beings. The Eden Magazine supports artists whose work matches our criteria. If you would like to submit your artwork, article, or/ and your photography for our future issues, please contact Maryam Morrison at maryammorrison@theedenmagazine.com The Eden Magazine reviews article content for accuracy before publication. The views expressed in the articles reflect the author(s) opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher and editor. The published material, adverts, editorials, and all other content are published in good faith. 5 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

CONTENTS

Table of

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FORGET DOG TRAINING; THE KEY TO HAPPINESS AND GOOD BEHAVIOR IS PARENTING by Angie Winters

THE LAW OF GENDER by George Lizos

BEYOND THE BIG BANGSCIENCE AND SPIRITUALITY by Isha Foundation

AN INTERVIEW WITH MORGAN FAIRCHILD by Dina Morrone

GET READY TO BUG OUT! A REAL BUG'S LIFE THE DISNEY+ ORIGINAL SERIES FROM NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

SORGHO SQUAD IS INSPIRING A NEW GENERATION OF HEALTHY EATERS by Nate Blum

Cover by: JSquared Photography @j2pix Designed by Artin Mardirosian (Nexision)

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS: LET'S MAKE 2025 THE YEAR OF GRACE by Dulce Garcia-Morman

WE WANT DECARBONIZATION OF THE ATMOSPHERE & REHYDRATION OF THE EARTH by Dr. Rob Moir

CHAPTER 4 A NEW DISCOVERY by Zee

HONORING THE TOOLS THAT NO LONGER SERVE YOURSELF by Polly Wirum

A NEW EARTH by Nikki Pattillo

THE ACIENT MEDITERRANEAN by Lisa Fazio

AN INWARD JOURNEY... by Jan Wakefiled

FROM MY HEART TO YOURS A NEW YEAR MESSAGE by Emilie Macas

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GET YOUR OWN COPY TODAY Order the latest edition by visiting our website www.theedenmagazine.com

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Forget Dog Training

The Key to Happiness and Good Behavior

Is Parenting by Angie Winters

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ogs love us with absolute commitment and vulnerability, and they occupy a special space in the human heart, one reserved for the most cherished of souls. We desperately want our dogs to feel safe and to be happy and well-mannered. Modern parents are committing unprecedented amounts of money, effort, and concern toward training their dogs, yet dog behavior cases - such as fear, anxiety, aggression, and potty issues - are prevalent and rising. Why? It's not from a lack of information. Our society is drowning in all manner of dog training advice and products, so why are there so many frustrated parents, tragically confused dogs, and sad outcomes? If you're one of the many struggling dog parents, you can take a big sigh of relief. There's a simple explanation: the reason your "trained" dog is going off the rails is that typical dog training doesn't work. You read that correctly and brace yourself because there's more. Not only doesn't it work, but it's also causing many behavioral problems to develop in the first place. Dog Training Falls Short Typical dog training has a fatal flaw: it's for teaching tricks. Sitting for a treat is a trick. A dog who's been taught to come around and execute a perfect heel to your left side is performing a glorified trick. "Tricks for treats" is fun! I've trained dogs for television, social media,

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and print ads. It's fascinating to watch a border collie weave through a person's legs, and what's cuter than a dog praying for his dinner? I get it. I love it, but that's classic animal conditioning. For family life, it's not enough. We also need to raise dogs to integrate into our busy homes as part of our families. Dogs are actually too smart and intuitive in some regards. They learn a few things quickly from typical dog training, and that wonderful attribute has actually muddied the waters for most parents. When dogs so easily learn to sit for a treat, parents think, "Yay, it's working!" Then things go downhill quickly because parents think they can teach the family safety rules like they taught the tricks. As the statistics show, nothing could be further from the truth. Typical dog training (whether harsh obedience or permissive treats and distractions only) advises you to approach your dog like a simpleton. It either follows the equation of "Fear In = Reaction Out" or "Food In = Reaction Out". It doesn't even scratch the surface of your dog's ability and understanding or what drives her. It doesn't fulfill your dog or make her feel calm when left alone. It can't teach her not to attack other dogs, bite people, or surf the counter for leftover bacon, and it definitely won't cure her fear of kids, hardwood floors, or the garbage truck.

Those things require a different approach: a parenting approach. Because dogs are entangled with us at an emotional and intellectual level, they need proper parental guidance from a human they trust and respect. For decades, I've helped dog parents get incredible results by understanding this. Unfortunately, the concept of dogs having vast emotions and intentional intellect has long been dismissed as people loving their dogs to the point of anthropomorphizing. It's an outdated and overly generalized perspective.

This is an evolutionary gift, but our society sets aside this unique symbiotic relationship and communication pathway in favor of the typical animal training mindset we've been taught since childhood. This explains the mystery behind how you can feel so close to your dog yet often find yourself baffled by his behaviors. It's why you want so badly to convince your dog he's safe, yet find yourself helpless when it comes to curing his fears. To change this, we need to step back and take a different view.

Among other things, recent studies confirm that dogs are born with (born with . . . not learn) the ability to use their eye movements to direct our attention toward problems they're unable to solve and to read our eye movements, head nods, and finger pointing to follow our directions and locate objects. Wolves, and even highly intelligent apes, perform poorly on the same test of their ability to understand those human gestures.1 I'm not suggesting dogs are smarter than wolves or apes, in the classic sense. I'm saying dogs are uniquely invested in us and wickedly smart when it comes to us.

A Different View For over twenty-five years, I've been fixing "unfixable" dogs. Dogs who had been surrendered to shelters and rescued due to extreme behavioral issues—or to vets for euthanasia—after all attempts by trainers, behavioral experts, and medications had failed. The dogs taught me what they needed to recover, and it wasn't typical dog training. For decades, I kept detailed notes and captured videos while I continued learning from dogs, rehabbing them, raising puppies, and coaching parents to do the same. I kept records when doing home behavior consults, shelter assessments, and long-distance consulting for prison dog training programs and rescues across the country.

Other animals don't need us in the same way. Our cats don't look to us for help catching a mouse. They don't "ask" us to pull out the oven so they can reach their prey. They wait and hide in hunting mode, according to their innate wiring. Conversely, within seconds of a tennis ball getting stuck under the couch, we see those puppy-dog eyes flash, and we trip over ourselves, running to help them. Most parents have repeated experiences with their dogs "asking" them for help but don't stop to think about what it actually is: a strong indicator of the human-dog coevolution and entanglement.

I was also raising two young boys, and like everyone else, my life was filled with ups and downs. Some years seemed impossibly tough. After surviving an extended, severe health challenge and near death experience, I was instantly and profoundly struck by the full weight of Universal love and concern for dogs. I had no doubt why I'd been returned to this life. In that moment, I was transformed from a typical suburban mom, into a woman with an unrelenting, singular purpose.

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In 2012, I founded the mission-driven company Parenting4Dogs (previously Angie4Dogs) and used the years of priceless dog documentation to create innovative video programs for raising awesome dogs, creating successful adoptions, ensuring great kid-dog relationships, and fixing fears and aggression. Now, with my new book, Don't Train Your Dog: A Pet Parenting Guide to Teaching Good Behavior, Calming Fear, and Raising Happy Dogs, I've brought my massive amount of proprietary content together to create the ultimate dog parenting "bible." It includes what parents need…simple yet effective recipes for fulfilling dogs and teaching them safety rules and prescriptions for fixing what troubles them. Most importantly, all the dog parenting techniques and tips fit seamlessly into our busy, modern lives and environments. The book includes access to the Don't Train Your Dog Digital Companion @parenting4dogs.com. This innovative digital companion includes curated video demonstrations, downloadables, parenting techniques and tips that enhance the concepts described in the chapters. Dog Parenting Mindset My definition of parenting is providing love, support, and guidance to vulnerable family members, and in our modern society, dogs remain perpetual two-year-olds. I think that's why many of the feelings we have for our dogs are similar to the ones we have for our kids. No, I don't think dogs are human children - or that they need to be - but I don't think they're simply domesticated animals either. It's hard to put an exact label on such an unusually close connection between two different species. Oh, I got it: family. All families - whether they consist of one human and one dog or mirror 14 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

the Brady Bunch - need a parent to make sure all members are safe, happy, and treated with respect. Dogs have sensitive, emotional needs and an innate desire to connect with us beyond typical training and animal conditioning. I invite you to take the following steps that will help you begin adopting the parenting approach with your pup: 1. Listen to your inner voice. It already knows the true nature of your relationship with your dog. Regardless of other's opinions, begin to think of yourself as a dog parent, not a person trying to train a wild or domesticated animal. 2. Forget trying to use all the dog training "commands," you know: sit, off, heel, and all that jazz. Instead, be aware of your facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language when communicating with your dog. Are they conveying worry, frustration or happiness? 3. Learn simple dog body language…mouth open casually looking around (relaxed), lifting one front paw (unsure), tense body, and direct stare (precursor to aggression.) Once you've begun this journey, you can learn how to continue and get support along the way by joining the compassionate community we're building to help each other navigate our own dog parenting journeys with confidence, patience…..and above all, a little humor. Dogs give us unconditional love and unlimited companionship. They live wholeheartedly in each moment of the day, which makes them powerful medicine for what ails the human soul. Together, we can help all dogs flourish and feel safe by creating a world that makes sense to them. Together, we can attempt to repay them for choosing us.

Angie Winters, trailblazing author of Don’t Train Your Dog, helping dogs is more than a job— it’s a calling. As a dog parenting coach and social entrepreneur for over 20 years, Angie has obsessively studied, raised, and rehabilitated over 1,000 dogs…and helped their parents. Her record for fixing broken dogs—who were deemed unfixable by typical dog trainers, vets, medications, behavioral experts, parents, and rescues—is unparalleled. Using a careful understanding of dog emotion and effective communication, Angie’s cutting-edge dog parenting philosophy helps dog parents, rescues, and prison dog training programs nationwide. Her mission is to create a world where dogs are understood and valued for their incredible gifts, leading to happier and healthier lives for both dogs and their parents. https://parenting4dogs.com/

Photo by Eric Ward

Give a Shelter Dog a Home

Adopt Today 15 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

THE LAW OF GENDER by George Lizos

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“Gender is in everything; everything has its masculine and feminine principles; gender manifests on all planes.” ~The Kybalion

he word “gender” is derived from Latin and it means “to generate, create, and produce.” Our modern understanding of the word gender to refer to biological sex (male/female/ intersex5), or social gender (man/woman/genderqueer), is simply a way through which gender expresses on the physical and social planes. From a spiritual and energetic perspective, the office of gender has to do with the creation process. 5 “Intersex” refers to a variety of conditions in which an individual’s reproductive or sexual anatomy doesn’t fit the typical definitions of female or male. This can involve variations in chromosomes, hormones, or physical structures. Intersex might be apparent at birth due to visible differences in genitalia, or it might be discovered later in life, such as during puberty or through genetic testing. Not all intersex conditions are visibly apparent. Sometimes, the terms Differences in Sex Development (DSD), Disorders of Sex Development, Variations in Sex Characteristics (VSC), or Diverse Sex Development are used. The Kybalion teaches that gender is at the basis of the manifestation process, in that the masculine and feminine energies are both intrinsically involved in the creation of things. Simultaneously, everything in the world is made of, and balanced in, both energies. A prime example of how masculine and feminine energies drive the manifestation process is the way through which atoms are formed. Essentially, atoms come together when a positive ion (masculine energy) exerts influence on a negative ion (feminine energy), allowing for an atom

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to be created. Since atoms are the physical make-up of everything on the physical plane, and since by the law of correspondence, the same laws govern all planes of existence, then all creation, whether it’s on the physical, mental, or spiritual plane, is created by the interplay of, and is balanced in masculine and feminine energy. The Gendered Process of Creation Masculine and feminine energies play distinctive roles in the manifestation process. Masculine energy is the one that directs and expresses energy, thus getting the creative process started and seeing things to completion. It creates a framework and a plan of action, and directs the action-taking required for things to manifest. Masculine energy is like a project manager, choosing the right team and materials, handing out responsibilities, and orchestrating the manifestation process. On the other hand, feminine energy receives instructions, makes sense of them, creates space for manifestation, and does the generating work of bringing the manifestations to life. Simply put, masculine energy directs the energy of creation, and feminine energy is the womb that births them into the world. The way through which masculine and feminine energy manifests within us in the creation process has to do with our capacity to receive intuitive guidance on the way to manifesting our desires (feminine energy), and using this guidance to plan and take forward action (masculine energy). To successfully manifest anything, we have to be balanced in both energies.

Balancing Our Masculine and Feminine Energies Most people are imbalanced in their masculine and feminine energies, which prevents them from successfully following their purpose and manifesting their desires. To begin with, the patriarchal world we live in values masculine energy more than feminine energy. As a result, we’ve been conditioned to hustle, struggle, and take mindless action towards our purpose without consulting with our intuition first. Rather than letting our feminine energy inform our action-taking, we instead abuse and over-depend on our masculine energy, which creates an imbalance. If we don’t overuse our masculine energy, we do so with our feminine energy. This is true for many people who have either burned out at an earlier stage in their life or have experienced abuse by patriarchal forces in this or their past lifetimes. Afraid to use their masculine energy in case they abuse it or be abused by it, they instead find comfort in receiving intuitive ideas about their purpose but never take action towards them. Because our world has been imbalanced in masculine and feminine energy for thousands of years, we often don’t know how to go about finding balance. We’ve lived out of balance for such a long time that we’re conditioned to abuse either our masculine or feminine energy. The easiest way I’ve found of balancing the two energies within us is by consciously and consistently connecting and realigning ourselves with our inner being, and therefore Source, through our spiritual practice. Source is already perfectly balanced in masculine and feminine energy, and so by regaining our connection to it we automatically find balance too. Mental Gender When it comes to using the law of

gender consciously for manifestation, we also need to understand how the principle of gender manifests not just on the physical level but also on the mental one, as this is where manifestation begins. The Kybalion distinguishes between masculine and feminine energy on the mental plane by explaining the difference between the two main identity pronouns we use to understand ourselves, the “I” and the “me.” When we think of “me,” we are usually referring to our physical and personality characteristics and desires. We think of the way our body looks, our feelings, beliefs, hobbies, likes and dislikes, and all the ways through which we define our human incarnation. The “me” is the already manifested version of ourselves, and thus it’s more aligned with our feminine energy. On the other hand, the “I” that is us is rooted in our consciousness and is more aligned with our will to create, rather than what already is created. The “I” comes up with ideas, desires, and intentions and projects them onto the “me,” so that they can be manifested. As a result, the “I” is our masculine mental energy, the one that starts, directs, and operates the creation process. In practical terms, on the mental plane, the masculine energy within us comes up with an intention and desire to manifest something, and our feminine energy conducts the work of nurturing thoughts and emotions, which will allow that desire to grow momentum and eventually manifest in our lives. Where Do Your Desires Come From? A question to ask yourself is, where is your “I” getting its intentions and desires from? Are your desires an extension of your authentic self and purpose, or are they influenced by other people’s desires for and expectations of you?

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Photo by Baran Lotfollahi

Although we’re born knowing our life purpose and have a direct connection to Source, who can guide us in following it, as we grow up we’re inevitably indoctrinated and conditioned by our family, the school system, and society at large. At first, we rebel, resist, and hold on to our authenticity. Eventually, they break us, and we end up buying into their cookie-cutter formula for being and living. We forget our life purpose, lose our connection to the Source, and end up thinking other people’s thoughts, feeling other people’s emotions, and behaving in ways that aren’t in alignment with our true selves and purpose. (To learn how to effectively protect your energy from such conditioning, read my book Protect Your Light.) As a result, our “I,” our consciousness and sense of will are to a great degree influenced by other people and systems whose will was either instilled into us, or is stronger than ours. This means that many of the desires we’re working on manifesting aren’t in alignment with our purpose and highest good; in fact, they’re not really our desires. They belong to the people and systems we listened to our entire lives. From this perspective, our sense of self or “me”—our thoughts, emotions, likes and dislikes, hobbies and interests—and the ideas and desires we nurture and strive to manifest isn’t really about what we want for us, but about what others want for us. Reclaiming Your Authentic Desires Since our mental masculine energy, our “I” or will, and therefore our desires, are to a great degree guided by our conditioning, an essential pillar of the manifestation process has to do with doing the inner work. We have to do the work of deprogramming our minds from the limiting thoughts, fears, beliefs, and conditioning we’ve been indoctrinated

with and realigning ourselves with the thoughts, beliefs, and desires that our higher self has for us. In other words, manifestation isn’t just about doing the high-vibe work, but also about having the courage to face your deepest, darkest fears and limiting beliefs. It’s about stopping being in denial of your shadow self and using processes to heal, resolve, and transmute the darkness into light. It’s only when we dive deep and strip the layers of our conditioning that we can allow our true desires and purpose to come to the surface. Unfortunately, the majority of manifestation literature teaches spiritual bypassing. Thus, you’ve been guided to ignore your fears and limiting beliefs and avoid facing your negative emotions. Instead, you’ve been asked to just “think positive,” “raise your vibration,” and “fake it till you make it.” But how can you think positively when you have deep-seated limiting beliefs around negativity? How can you raise your vibration when you have unresolved traumas that keep you rooted in fear? How can you fake it till you make it when you’ve been conditioned to see yourself in a limited way? Ignoring the negative and focusing on the positive may work in the short term, and you may find yourself enjoying some ephemeral manifestation bliss. But eventually, your buried, unhealed fears and limiting beliefs will gain momentum, take over your consciousness, and sabotage the manifestation process. The law of gender marks the end of Part One of the book. Now that you have a deeper understanding of the seven manifestation laws of the Universe, you’re ready to start living them. In the next part, you’ll learn how to use these laws in a practical manner to manifest your desires and purpose.

George Lizos is a spiritual teacher, psychic healer, Greek pagan priest, and the creator of Intuition Mastery School. The author of Be the Guru, Lightworkers Gotta Work, Ancient Manifestation Secrets, and Secrets of Greek Mysticism, he is the host of The Lit Up Lightworker and Can’t Host podcasts. Named one of the top 50 health and wellness influencers by Health Blog Awards,he regularly teaches workshops and online courses. He lives in Cyprus. https://georgelizos.com 21 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

Sadhguru, Isha Foundation

BEYOND THE BIG BANG Science and Spirituality

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Sadhguru: Recently, I happened to be in a presentation by a popular scientist. He has written a book called Endless Universe. It has become very popular in the scientific circles. He called this particular session “Beyond the Big Bang” because, until recently, the scientific community believed that everything happened because of the Big Bang. But now some are saying, “It was not just one; many bangs must have happened.” It has been held that some billions of years ago, this particular Bang happened, which has resulted in all these planets and this universe. But now they are saying this Bang is not the only one. I will not go into the whole science of it, but it was amusing for me because these theories are beginning to sound just like Yogic lore. This is something that we have always known from within. Slowly, they are not only beginning to talk like Yogic lore, but they are also beginning to describe the same forms and shapes that we have always held sacred and worshipped. In the Yogic system, we do not believe that you can ever go out into existence and find out everything that is there – a belief that scientists have also come to. When the scientist says it is an endless universe, he is obviously saying you can never find out what it is. You can never travel from end to end and say, “Okay, this is existence.” We recognize

that there is no way to travel from one end to the other and know it because, by the time you travel across, it will have expanded. For everything in this universe, the basic law is that the speed of light is the top speed you can attain. So if you travel at a speed below the speed of light, by the time you go from one end of the universe to the other, it would have grown much faster. There is no way you can ever travel the whole distance. That is the reason why we are saying it is an endless universe. We can never travel to the end. This is something that has been said thousands of years ago. The Mini-universe And so, the best way to know this existence is by turning inward. Whatever has happened in existence, all of it is in some way recorded in this mini-universe, the body. It is because of this recording, because of this reflection of existence, that we said that the human being is created in the image of God. This expression, which was uttered thousands of years ago in the Yogic realm, has found reflection in every religion in a misinterpreted way. We just said, “Everything that happened in existence has happened in a small way inside you.” If you know what is within, you know everything that is happening out there. We cannot separate the creation and the Creator. In the same image as the creation is the Creator.

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Let me tell you how Yoga explains creation from within. This is a dialectical culture. I can make it all ABC if you want, but let us enjoy the culture. There is a certain beauty to the terminology. Because it is speaking about a dimension which is not in our logical perception, it is best to speak in dialectical ways. The story goes like this: Shiva is sleeping. When we say “Shiva” here, we are not talking about a person or the Yogi. “Shiva” here refers to “that which is not;” that which is nascent. “That which is not” can only sleep. And he has always been referred to as the “Dark One.” That which is not lying absolutely still, and a certain energy happens, which we call Shakti – she is given a feminine form. She wants him to come awake because she wants to dance and play with him; she wants to woo him. Initially, he does not wake up. After 24 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

some time, he does. Anyone who is in deep slumber, if you wake him up, he will get a little angry. If you were in a deep sleep and someone came and nudged you, it would not matter how beautiful that person was; you would get angry. So he gets angry, roars, and rises. That is why his first form and his first name is Rudra. The word “Rudra” means one who roars. I asked the scientist, “If there is a series of Bangs, could it be a roar? Was it just one bang, or was it a continuous thing?” He thought about it, and then he said, “It cannot be just one; it must have been longer than just one moment.” And I said, “Why are you calling it a Bang? It is a Roar, isn’t it?” If you ever drive a motorcycle or car without the silencer, you will see it will go “bang, bang, bang,” but if you throttle up, it will roar. A roar is a composite expression of many bangs.

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Everything that happened in existence has happened in a small way inside you.” If you know what is within, you know everything that is happening out there. We cannot separate the creation and the Creator. In the same image as the creation is the Creator.

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Infrastructures to Raise Human Consciousness

Experience Yoga in its classical form at Isha Yoga Center Los Angeles and Isha Institute of Inner-sciences. Established by Sadhguru, the centers serve as powerful spaces for inner transformation and raising human consciousness. Located in northern Los Angeles County and Tennessee, the centers offer an array of yoga and meditation programs in a vibrant and conducive ambience. You are invited to Free Yoga Day, a monthly open-door event a t the center. On this day, we offer a variety of free sessions dedicated to educating and empowering individuals to take charge of their well-being through simple but powerful practices sourced from the Yogic tradition. Learn more at ishausa.org/la

What is being perceived now in a phenomenally roundabout way was perceived a long time ago. It is true within every human being if you look deep enough. There are 114 chakras or energy centers in the body. The energy system, which we refer to as “prana,” has 114 junction points or important meeting places. There are 72000 nadis, or pathways or channels. If you cut this body, you will not see them, but as you become more aware of the movement of energy, you will see energy is not moving at random but in particular patterns. The energy moves through 72000 patterns or channels, and these meet at 114 points in the body. 112 are within the physical body; two are outside the body. This manifestation itself is a representation of the cosmic-scape.

the 114th is a completely non-physical creation, a no-thing, which is right now unmanifest. A no-thing will manifest itself in the subtlest possible way. That is what Yoga says. Shiva has roared 84 times, and he will roar 112 times in total. After that, he will not roar anymore. He will step out. That means the nothingness itself will be a universe. It will not be physical existence.

The 84 Big Bangs Out of these 114, the first 84 belong to the past, and the rest belong to the future. We say Shiva roared 84 times, which means 84 Big Bangs have happened and 84 universes were created. Slowly, over a period of time, these universes lost their form and kept spreading away, became lighter, and then disintegrated. This physical body has happened in the same way that this whole creation has happened. Today, you know that if you cut a tree (please do not do such things!), there are rings in a tree that will tell you almost everything that has happened on this planet for as long as the tree has been here. Similarly, if you look into this body – you do not have to even cut it open – it tells you how the whole of creation has happened.

So, based on this, because you live and exist in the 84th universe and you have 84 chakras of a certain nature, Yoga developed 84 basic asanas, or postures. There are 112 different types of meditation, but 84 basic asanas, because these 84 relate to past memory. The rest is the future. This past memory has to be released. The information or the karmic bondage goes back as far as these 84 Big Bangs do. Everything is recorded in this body, and that is why physical nature is the bondage.

So, this is the 84th cycle. And this will continue to happen till the 112th cycle. These 112 universes will be physical in nature. The last two will be perpetual universes. That is, the 113th creation will happen in a semi-physical condition, not in a physical condition. And after that,

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There are various other aspects of cosmology connected with this body, which could have been perceived just by looking inward. We have spent, I do not know how much money, time, and energy trying to explore these things, but if you are willing to look in – just for a moment, if you simply look in – it is possible for every human being to see this.

Look at how stable your body is. At the same time, see how fragile it is. If the next inhalation does not happen, you are gone, isn’t it? You have taken it for granted; you are not conscious about it, but it is a fragile life if you become conscious and watch it. We are so fragile, but at the same time, we see how sturdy we are. Look at all the things that human beings can do and have done. This is the beauty of creation. Everything is tenderly balanced. So tenderly, you cannot disturb it – not easily. The whole creation is like this, manifesting the mastery of the Creator.

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Interview by Dina Morrone

organ

FAIRCHILD A Timeless Icon of Grace and Advocacy

n this exclusive interview with The Eden Magazine, we sit down with the legendary Morgan Fairchild, a true icon of Hollywood whose career spans decades of unforgettable performances on screen and the stage. Beyond her undeniable talent and timeless beauty, Morgan is a passionate advocate for environmental and humanitarian causes. Join us as she reflects on her inspiring journey in Entertainment, her dedication to making a difference, and the values that continue to shape her remarkable life and career.

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Stories have always been essential to teaching young people the culture of right and wrong, and setting good examples of doing the right thing. It's always been there for every culture in the world.

From Texas to California, Were there any stops in between before settling in Los Angeles? Yes. New York City. I moved to New York from Dallas, Texas, in the 1970s. My sister, who studied at Julliard Drama School, was the only person I knew there. I did know some friends with whom I had done theatre, but they were not close friends. I lived and worked there through most of the 70s and loved it. But when film and TV crews came to New York to shoot, they wanted New York types like Italian mamas and character types. The waspy blonde parts were being cast in Los Angeles. But still, I was fortunate to be cast and work on Search for Tomorrow and shows like Kojak, which were shooting in New York. I eventually moved to Los Angeles and got my first job in less than a month. I was very grateful for that. When good things are happening, you're grateful. Then, as time passes, and you look back on the past and realize how fast everything happened early in your career, you're extra grateful. Over the years, did you spend much time returning to Dallas? Yes. My parents and my sister were there. After my sister completed her studies at Julliard, she moved back to Dallas and then to Miami. When my parent's health was failing, 30 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

we would take turns going back there to take care of them. Dallas has not been your home for a long time, but what still makes you a girl from Texas? And what makes you an LA woman? What makes me a Texas girl is that Texas women always consider themselves frontier women. When I was growing up, I would stand tarantula and rattlesnake guard while my mother was doing the gardening. You take pride in being a little different from the rest of the country because it's frontier. What makes me an LA woman is simple: I love the glory of Los Angeles—the beautiful weather and the fun of the city. There's an effervescence about it that makes me feel good. How do you stay grounded, healthy, and optimistic? I dealt with depression a lot when I was a kid. I was very shy and quiet, and I trained myself to be positive. I trained myself to say, "In the universal scheme of things, this doesn't really matter." Those words have gotten me through a lot by putting things into perspective that I will survive this, and life will go on. Whatever is happening, I pull myself together and go on. Again, that's part of the Texas frontier woman attitude.

Tell me about your love for doing theatre and comedy. I grew up in the theatre and have always respected what everybody does on any set I'm working on because I've done it all, from props to sound, lights, costumes, and more. Working in theatre teaches you all of that. It's an excellent foundation for any serious actor. Acting is a team effort, and everything is important to the end goal of a production. I've always approached the work that way. It's essential to do your best, keep going, and always be considerate of others you work with. Theatre is so different from film and TV in that you have instantaneous gratification. If you bomb, you bomb. If it works, it's glorious. When you connect with an audience, it's an incredible feeling, and you know it. I love doing comedy, entertaining, and making people laugh - there's nothing like getting out there and getting a good laugh out of an audience. And as an actor on stage, you can't fake comedy timing. It’s not the same as working in front of a camera for film or TV where you get to do multiple takes. I have worked with some wonderful comedic giants. I got to do the first year of Mork & Mindy with Robin Williams. I did a TV movie with Joan Rivers, who was also a friend. I've done TV specials with everybody from comedy legends like Bob Hope and Rodney Dangerfield, and I also did Pee-Wee's Big Adventure. I did a short run of Butterflies Are Free this year in North Carolina. And someday soon, I would really like to do Lion in Winter and play Eleanor of Aquitaine. If you hadn't chosen an acting career, what career path would you have chosen? I wanted to be a doctor or a paleontologist. I thought I'd be out in the Gobi Desert dusting off dinosaur bones. I also tried to keep my hand in with my love of Science.

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That's why I've been an environmental activist, talking about global warming since the mid-80s. At one point, when Al Gore was still a Senator, he and I were the only two people in DC talking about global warming.

had a wonderful, interesting life. I've visited many places, traveled, and experienced some wonderful moments.

One of my weird hobbies is emerging viruses and epidemiology. When AIDS first hit, I found that I was the only famous person who could go on shows like Nightline and explain what a retrovirus is and how you do and don't get it. I did the first town hall on Nightline, which went on for five hours alongside doctors and congresspeople. I felt a moral obligation to get out there and use the fame that I had to talk to people honestly about AIDS and try to get the stigma removed from the gay community. I testified before Congress to help get research funding and worked with Dr. Fauci and Dr. C. Everett Koop, surgeon general at the time under President Reagan. And I was there to unveil the first AIDS veterans wing in New York with Mayor Koch. I’ve always had this weird hobby that nobody cared about until suddenly, there was this global AIDS pandemic. I felt it was my responsibility to help educate people. I have continued to try to do that with COVID, which everybody wants to think is over, but it's not. Now, you see many people with long COVID. It's a very disabling problem, not just for the United States but for many countries. It will be a significant economic destabilizer because people can't return to the workforce in their prime years. I'm seeing a lot of long COVID with cancer. I have three friends who have had long COVID and now have breast cancer, blood cancers, and heart attacks. My fiancé died of a heart attack from COVID last year. People don't want to talk about it. I get teased a lot because I wear a mask everywhere I go. I will add that I don't go to many places, which is okay. I've

I haven't had COVID, and I don't want to get it. I have seen what it has done to many people, including my late husband. For many, it's not just a cold or the flu. It can cause severe neurological problems. What do you say to people in denial about the vaccine? For those who don't believe in the vaccine and made up their mind about it, I don't try to argue with them. Of course, it also depends on the circumstances. I will reach out to someone to see if they might be amenable to discussing vaccines in general because it’s important to know that vaccines save lives. For example, many don't know that HPV causes cervical cancer, anal cancer, esophageal cancer, all these different cancers. Now, thanks to Science, there is an HPV vaccine. In some countries where they have done heavy promotion of the HPV vaccine, cervical cancer has been reduced to almost nothing. Some things are coming along that are currently in the study phase for Long-COVID that scientists are hopeful about. 33 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

What inspired you early on to get involved in the AIDS cause? Early on, it was a huge stigma to talk about AIDS or be involved in the cause. At that point in my career, when AIDS was coming to the forefront and raging, I was doing the TV show Falcon Crest. I had been Rock Hudson's date to a Lifetime Achievement Awards about six to eight months before he went on Dynasty. Because I was already studying AIDS, as soon as I heard he wasn't looking good, I knew exactly what it was. Then, the fear mentally started, and I felt a moral obligation because I quickly realized I would be the only famous face to speak up and educate people. I wanted to get the word out, take the stigma off, try to get it treated as a disease, and get people to change their sex habits. And because, at the time, I was a big sex symbol, I felt I had to speak up and say, "Guys, you have got to change your sex habits." After my public support and involvement, suddenly, people didn't want to have me in their homes. They didn't want me around their kids. They didn't want me eating off their plates because I was talking about AIDS. That's when I could see who my real friends were. People didn't say, "Tell me more about the disease." They just cut me off. It was a very sad time. It was bad enough that I was losing friends to AIDS, but I was also losing friends to the stigma and their own fear. Looking back, I feel honored to have done what I did.

And what I discovered, again, being that Texas frontier woman, is that I was willing to take the hits. One of my friends, the publisher of one of the big tabloid magazines, called me up and said, "We want to do a photoshoot with a bunch of celebrities and call it 'Hollywood Fights AIDS.' Would you do it?" I said, "Sure." He called me back several weeks later and said, "Thank you so much." I said, "For what?" He said, "Everybody said no until you said yes. Then we got people to do it because you said yes."

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I realized that was another way I could help. I was willing to be out front and take the punches to do my part to make it safer for others to come up behind me and talk about it. I always believed they wrote me off the TV show Falcon Crest because of my outspokenness about AIDS. I know I lost work over it. At one point, I was doing theatre out of town. A group of us were having dinner, and a casting fellow from LA who had retired to that small town started crying at the table. He said, "Morgan, I know you lost work. I was in the casting rooms, and your name would come up, and they would say, 'Oh, she's too controversial with all that AIDS stuff.' "I didn't stand up for you. I'm so sorry. I apologize." I knew they hurt me in the business. But it's the best thing I ever did with my life because I helped save lives at that time by educating people, helping get the research funding, getting everything going, trying to take the stigma off of it, and getting people to face reality. Because I'm a science nerd, I face reality. And you have to face reality when it comes to severe health crises and pandemics. When I testified before Congress, one of the members of Congress was very snide. He said, "Ms. Fairchild, can you tell me how many of my straight, heterosexual, good Christian constituents are ever going to have to deal with this disease?" I said, "Sir, it is a disease. It does not respect gender or race or your district line. It's a disease. It will affect your constituents." That is the kind of attitude that existed back then. I made a living as an actor, but I've always been a science nerd, and I like to think I played a small part in getting research and funding for AIDS. Science is a good thing. Science saves your life. What needs to continue to be done to ensure that such an epidemic like AIDS or a pandemic like COVID-19 never returns? There are always going to be epidemics and pandemics. That's nature. As any good science researcher would have told us, we were overdue for a pandemic when COVID came along.

The H5N1 flu is getting ready to become an epidemic right now. They just got a new recombinant flu outbreak in Cambodia, and it’s also emerging around Europe. What steps should the entertainment industry take to make a more positive impact on the environment? I've been talking about the environment for 40 years. Writers and producers should be educating people. But this is best done by working messages and information into storylines in a way that can be entertaining so people don't feel like they're getting hit over the head with it. When I started talking about the environment, I thought this would probably start cascading 30 years after I died. Instead, it's happening while I'm still alive. We didn't know the progression would be this fast because we didn't understand its cascade effect when I first got involved. And we didn't know the progression of how things would trigger other things to fail at the same time. I don't want to see people die because of environment-related events. You are also interested in counterterrorism? Yes. One of my other hobbies is counterterrorism. I have followed terrorist groups since the 70s. I was at the RAND Corporation eight or 10 years ago. They used to do these week-

end seminars where you had different panels on different topics spread out over three days, and could go to any of the panels. Ten years ago, I was at a counterterrorism panel that Harry Brown was hosting. Present on the panel were Prince Turki Al-Faisal, the head of intelligence in Saudi Arabia at that time, David S. Rohde, who the Taliban had held hostage, a man named David Kilpatrick from Australia, and five or six others. It was a fascinating discussion on terrorism and counterterrorism. The last question Harry phrased to them was, "Where are the new terrorist threats emerging?" Everybody was picking some new emerging group. Patrick Kilcullen, from Australia, piped up and said, "Global warming is going to be the new driver of terrorism as it forces displacement of people all over the world. Fighting for water will be the new oil." Harry Brown was saying what I've been saying for 40 years, so I went to him afterward and said, "Where have you been? We're agreeing on all this." Seated next to me that day was an older gentleman with a cane. He never got up during the breaks, so I brought him back some coffee and cookies. He thanked me, and we started chatting.

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When it happens repeatedly on large swaths of country and all countries simultaneously, with floods and fires, where will we go? Young people are inheriting this, and I feel bad for them. The Pacific Air Stream, the Gulf Stream, and everything we've relied on with our oceans to regulate weather since we started recording is falling apart. The ocean has gotten so hot. Airstreams are getting more and more volatile. Scientists are scared about what's going to happen. What message would you like to share with those who look up to you for inspiration in both acting and activism? With regards to my activism, the message I would like to share is that I believe in being a frontier woman, getting out and facing the issue, facing the problems, and then trying to defend what I think is right, whether it's AIDS research, educating people about COVID, or whether it's trying to educate people about democracy. You have to keep fighting for the planet and for people who can't fight for themselves. You don't say, "I'm going to hide under the covers." You get out and fight. With regard to acting, I would like to say that entertainment has always been important to every culture, even going back to cavemen and early tribes. There was the storytelling, the oral passing down of fables, and lessons learned, whether it's Hans Christian Andersen with his fairy tales or tribal lore. Stories have always been essential to teaching young people the culture of right and wrong, setting good examples of doing the right thing. It's always been there for every culture in the world. I am proud that I have played a part in telling stories to so many people through the countless roles I've played and the projects I have been involved in, whether through television, film, or theatre.

I asked him what he thought about the global warming issue that Harry mentioned. He said, "Well, young lady, I don't know about global warming, but I'll tell you, I run some of the biggest insurance companies in this country, and we have to pay for everything, so I take it very seriously."

What moment in your professional career shaped your success? There are many because there isn't one pivotal moment when you've been doing this work as long as I have. But booking the soap opera Search For Tomorrow early in my career was a big break. Also, after years of doing theatre, coming out to Los Angeles, and getting that first job, that was another big break. Everything's a big break each step of the way.

We need to look at the destabilizing effects of global warming which impact property values and being able to get insurance. The hurricanes that recently hit Asheville and North Carolina have taken people's lives literally, but also everything they owned.

Tell us about your very first time on set. At 16, I worked a lot in the theatre in Dallas. I was on my way to open a show called A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum when I got a call

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from a fellow who owned all the sound stages in Dallas. He knew me because I'd shot a lot of commercials there. He said, "You want to be in a movie? I said, "Sure." He said, "Be at the North Park Inn at 5 AM tomorrow." I said, "I'm opening a show tonight. I don't know if I'll be home by 5 AM and must go to high school sometime in between." He said, "Well, that's it." I didn't hesitate and told him I would be there at 5 a.m. Then, just as he was about to hang up the phone, he asked, "Oh, by the way, can you drive a stick shift?" I didn’t know how, but being an actor, I lied and said, "Of course." When I got to the theatre for my show, I told my fellow actors that they had to take me out in the alley and show me how to drive a stick shift at intermission. I got to the North Park Inn at 5 AM. Everybody was mulling around in the dark in this parking lot. They put us all on these big buses and took us to the middle of nowhere in Texas. After an hour's drive, when we got out, it was still dark. This was my first movie, and I didn’t know a thing about being on a movie set. I turned to someone beside me and asked, "What do I do? Where should I go?" They said, "You should go look at the set." I asked, "Where's the set?" They pointed and said, "It's down that road." Then handed me a flashlight, and I started walking down this dirt road in the dark, heading towards the set, trying not to trip on anything along the way. As the sun was starting to rise, I saw this guy walking toward me with the sun behind him. I said, "Can you tell me where the set is?" He looked at me and said, "I'll show you the set." Well, it turns out that guy was none other than handsome Warren Beatty, and the movie he was starring in alongside Faye Dunaway, and that I would be working on, was Bonnie and Clyde.

Have you had a mentor that you looked up to? Larry O’Dwyer was a great mentor to me and my sister. He always told us that acting is reaching out and giving love to your fellow man, and that's the way I've always approached it. Love the audience by pulling the audience with you.

Are there any actors you have worked with that you consider geniuses? Robin Williams and Larry O'Dwyer! Larry is not a household name or as well-known as Robin, but he was a brilliant actor who worked a lot in different theatres nationwide. What is the best professional advice you ever received? Larry O'Dwyer was the one who gave me the best advice I ever received. He said, "You can always walk out on reality." That has gotten me through so much. And he also said, "You create your own reality." And that's what I've done. Those words mean you know who you are. You put one foot in front of the other. You exist in your reality. That's what I've done, and it has stood me in excellent stead all these years.

Photo Courtesy Of ABC/General Hospital ©

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I felt a moral obligation to get out there and use the fame that I had to talk to people honestly about AIDS and try to get the stigma removed from the gay community. I also testified before Congress to help get research funding.

You worked with the late Matthew Perry on Friends, playing his mother. Is there something you'd like to share about Matthew Perry, the person, not the actor? When I was offered the part, the show wasn't a big hit yet. But I'd seen the show and thought it had a lot of potential. so, I said yes and accepted the part. Cicely Tyson said, "You're too young to play that guy's mother. You shouldn't do that." I said, "Cicely, you have to make the transition at some point in your career.” I had played the mother of kids and teenagers and thought I've got to make that transition to playing the mother of a young adult. Cicely continued, "But you're too young." I said, "I will do the part because the show has potential." And I went on to play Matthew's (Chandler's) mother. A wonderful memory of Matthew is that it was my first day on the set. He came bouncing over to me like a big puppy dog and said, "You won't remember me, but I used to hang out with you on the Flamingo Road and Falcon Crest set with my dad." I asked, "Who's your dad?" He said, "John Bennett Perry." I said, "You're John's kid? You're that little kid?" He said, "Yes." I thought, "I guess I am old enough to be this kid's mother."

Hopefully, we'll begin shooting in the new year. What's your guilty pleasure? I love tapioca. I like the texture and the taste. Is there a childhood memory you carry with you? I had a really good childhood and have many beautiful memories. I'm just grateful that my sister and I are still very close. I remember the big Thanksgiving and Christmas gettogethers we used to have as a family. They were so special. Now, it's down to a couple of cousins and my sister. As far as a specific childhood memory, one does come to mind. Fireflies. We had a lot of fireflies where I grew up. I love them. They are so beautiful. It makes me sad that they may soon be extinct. Do you have some closing thoughts you'd like to share? The main thing is that everybody should be kind to each other. Kindness is the most important thing in life. We should treat people with dignity and respect despite all the turbulent times we live in. After all, we're all just here to help each other get through life. Reach out in love to your fellow men. Be gracious and kind to people and give them their dignity. Let love shine upon you. That's it.

Photo Courtesy Of Warner Bros. Television © (Friends)

Special Thank you to: Morgan Fairchild Photo courtesy provided by Morgan Fairchild, and ABC/General Hospital © JSquared Photography @j2pix (Photography) Edward Hakopian (Hair and Makeup) BeTrue Studio, Sharon Rajiman (Location)

It was always fun to work with Matthew. I will always remember him as a sweet, adorable, creative, inventive man, actor, and master of the double and triple take. Is there an upcoming project you want to tell us about? I have a recurring part in General Hospital, playing the role of Haven de Havilland, the hostess of the home shopping show Home and Heart. Also, I was supposed to start shooting a movie with Loretta Switt and Michael Learned in September, but they keep doing rewrites. 40 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

Photo Courtesy Of ABC/General Hospital ©

Extend the gentleness of your heart to the majestic elephant, for in its grace lies a reminder of the beauty of compassion

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GET READY TO BUG OUT!

A REAL BUG’S LIFE Tiny heroes, huge drama! A REAL BUG’S LIFE is back for a thrilling second season that’s bigger and bolder than ever. Inspired by the world of Disney and Pixar’s “A Bug’s Life,” the Disney+ Original series from National Geographic takes us on another extraordinary adventure into the micro-bug world — where the forces of nature play out on a completely different scale and miniature creatures rely on amazing superpowers to make it through each day. Now, thanks to new cutting-edge filming technology, we are able to follow the incredible stories of the tiny heroes living in this hidden world, from the fast-legged tiger beetle escaping the heat of Borneo’s beaches to the magical metamorphosis of a damselfly on a British pond to the Smoky Mountain luna moth whose quest is to grow wings, find love and pass on his genes all in one short night! Join our fun and witty guide, Awkwafina, on new bug journeys full of more mind-blowing behaviors and larger-than-life characters. This family-friendly series continues to show that A REAL BUG’S LIFE can be every bit as fantastical as any Pixar film!

A REAL BUG’S LIFE, THE DISNEY+ ORIGINAL SERIES FROM NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC, RETURNS WITH A NEW BUG-TASTIC SEASON THE WHOLE FAMILY WILL ENJOY! 44 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

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Sorgho Squad is Inspiring a New Generation of Healthy Eaters by Nat Blum

hildhood obesity rates are climbing, and nutritional deficiencies are becoming more common, so finding innovative ways to educate young people about healthy eating has never been more important. Nate Blum, the CEO of Sorghum United, has found a unique way to combine his farming background, passion for sustainability, and love of comic books into an educational adventure series that's capturing the imagination of young readers while teaching them about healthy eating. The Birth of Sorgho Squad Nate Blum developed a deep appreciation for agriculture and sustainable farming practices in childhood. Later in life, his passion for improving food systems and combating hunger led him to an unex-

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pected solution: creating a graphic novel series. "I am passionate about improving regional food systems and access to healthy foods to combat hunger and food security," Blum explains. "Moreover, I grew up on a farm in Nebraska, so the opportunities for environmental and economic sustainability for rural communities globally are particular passions. I am also a huge comic book nerd. So, the idea to write these books in a graphic novel style format was one that came to me very easily." The result is Sorgho Squad, a series that Blum describes as "Captain Planet meets Indiana Jones." The books follow a group of young adventurers as they uncover the secrets of ancient grains, particularly sorghum, and millets while facing dangers and solving mysteries along the way.

The Power of Storytelling in Health Education One of the key strengths of the Sorgho Squad series is its use of storytelling to convey important information about nutrition and sustainable agriculture. Research has shown that narrative can be a powerful tool for behavior change, especially in children. By creating relatable characters who champion healthy eating and sustainable practices, the series provides young readers with role models they can emulate. "These books were written in a way that is adventurous and inquisitive," Blum says. "They are intended to be educational but not so dry as to be unreadable. I hope that the stories provide entertainment to young people in addition to the information presented." This approach taps into children's natural curiosity and love for stories. By presenting information in this engaging format, children are more likely to retain the knowledge and develop a genuine interest in the subject matter. Why Focus on Sorghum? At the heart of the Sorgho Squad series is sorghum, an ancient grain that offers numerous health and environmental benefits. Blum's choice to focus on this particular crop is deliberate and backed by scientific research. "Sorghum and millets are amongst the first grains cultivated by mankind," Blum explains. "This means, and is supported

by published research, that the human gut microbiome evolved alongside these ancient grains." The health benefits of sorghum are numerous and wide-ranging. Research suggests that it may help reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to various chronic diseases. Sorghum is also beneficial for heart health and has demonstrated anti-diabetic properties. Some studies even indicate that it might have anti-cancer effects, though more research is needed in this area. Additionally, sorghum is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. However, the benefits of sorghum extend beyond human health. As Blum points out, "Sorghum and millets are drought-resistant crops. They use roughly 1/3 of the water of comparable grains. They also benefit soil health and improve carbon sequestration due to their larger root biomass. And, pollinators and birds thrive in these grains, providing much-needed biodiversity to agricultural systems." This combination of nutritional and environmental benefits makes sorghum a particularly valuable crop facing global health and climate challenges. By introducing children to these benefits through relatable characters and exciting storylines, Sorgho Squad makes the concept of healthy eating and sustainable agriculture more appealing and accessible.

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Creative Strategies for Engaging Young Readers The Sorgho Squad series employs several creative strategies to engage young readers and make learning about nutrition and agriculture fun: • Visual Learning: The graphic novel format appeals to visual learners and makes complex concepts more digestible for young readers. •

Character Identification: Each member of the Sorgho Squad has unique strengths and interests, allowing diverse readers to find characters they can relate to and admire.

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Interactive Learning: The adventure format encourages readers to solve puzzles and mysteries alongside the characters, promoting active engagement with the material.

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Cross-curricular Connections: The series integrates elements of science, history, geography, and environmental studies, making it a valuable resource for educators across different subjects.

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Family Engagement: By creating content that's both educational and entertaining, Sorgho Squad encourages family discussions about nutrition and sustainability.

Inspiring Action and Curiosity

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Blum's goals for the Sorgho Squad series go beyond simply educating children about sorghum. He hopes to inspire curiosity and action in his young readers. "I hope they pique the readers' curiosity," he says. "I hope readers will want to learn more and will begin to request sorghum and millets-based products from their grocers and other businesses. Not to exclude other grain-based options. Rather to complement them." This approach empowers children to become active participants in their nutritional choices. By encouraging them to ask for sorghum products, Blum is fostering a generation of informed consumers who can drive demand for healthier, more sustainable food options. While the Sorgho Squad series is primarily aimed at children, its potential impact extends far beyond its target audience. As children become excited about sorghum and its benefits, they're likely to share this enthusiasm with their families, potentially leading to changes in household eating habits. Schools may incorporate the series into their curriculum, spreading the message further. And as demand for sorghum products increases, it could lead to positive changes in agricultural practices and food production.

Challenges and Future Plans Despite the success of Sorgho Squad, Blum acknowledges that there are challenges in promoting ancient grains like sorghum. Many people are unfamiliar with these grains, and there's a need for more sorghum-based products in the market. However, Blum sees these challenges as opportunities. He plans to continue expanding the Sorgho Squad series, possibly including more ancient grains and exploring different aspects of sustainable agriculture and nutrition. There's also potential for the series to expand into other media. Blum hints at the possibility of animated adaptations or educational games based on the Sorgho Squad characters, which could reach even more young people with the series' important messages. The Role of Education in Shaping Future Eating Habits The Sorgho Squad series underscores the crucial role that education plays in shaping future eating habits. By introducing children to nutrition, sustainability, and food security at a young age, we can help create a generation that's more conscious of

their food choices and their impact on personal health and the environment. Moreover, by making this education fun and engaging, we increase children's likelihood of retaining and applying what they've learned. As Blum puts it, "I hope that readers come away with a sense of fun and excitement for the material itself. These books were written in a way that is adventurous and inquisitive." From Comic Books to Conscious Choices As the Sorgho Squad series continues to grow in popularity, its potential for positive impact expands. Blum sees the series as a catalyst for broader discussions about food security, sustainable agriculture, and global nutrition. By presenting these complex topics in an accessible, engaging format, Sorgho Squad lays the groundwork for a more informed and healthconscious generation. As these young readers grow up, they'll carry with them not just fond memories of exciting adventures but also a deep understanding of the importance of nutritious, sustainable food choices.

Nate Blum serves as the Chief Executive Officer of BlüMilo and Sorghum United. Sorghum United is an international NGO advancing education and market development for sorghum and adjacent small grains. Mr. Blum is passionate about the mission of Sorghum United due to the solutions for food security, nutrition, environmental sustainability, and rural economic disparity these ancient grains represent. He is an expert on grain sorghum production and marketing, focusing on value-added agriculture processing for sorghum-based products. Mr. Blum has represented the sorghum and millets industry in thirty-two countries, spanning every habitable continent and at the United Nations FAO. He has also worked with international stakeholders regarding the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, hosting an Independent Food Systems Summit (August 2021). Mr. Blum served as the Executive Director of the Nebraska Grain Sorghum Board and the Nebraska Sorghum Producers Association from 2019 to 2023. Mr. Blum serves on the USDA Grains, Feed, and Oilseeds Ag Trade Advisory Committee (ATAC). The ATAC advised trade policy to the office of the US Trade Representative. He also serves on the Private Sector Mechanism (PSM) advising the United Nations Committee on Food Security (CFS). He is an Alumnus of the University of Nebraska (Class of 2019), the Nebraska Leadership, Education, Agriculture, Development (LEAD) Program (Class XXXVI), and also served as the Vice president of the Nebraska LEAD Alumni Association. Mr. Blum received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Nebraska. He also enjoys volunteering, mentoring, and organizing community events in his free time. 51 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM eJANUARY 2025

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Welcome to Our Contributor Writers’ Neighborhood 53 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

Photos by AdobeStock

An Ecology of Ideas By Dulce García-Morman, Ph.D.

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NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS: LET’S MAKE 2025 THE YEAR OF GRACE

umans have been busy making New Year’s resolutions for at least 4,000 years. No, it is not a modern phenomenon! “The very first New Year’s resolutions dates happened over 4,000 years ago. The first recorded people to celebrate a new year were the ancient Babylonians. Their new year celebration was a 12-day festival called Akitu, which began at the start of the spring planting season in March”. The purpose of this festival was for Babylonians to pledge their allegiance to their king and promise to pay back all their debts and return borrowed things. The Romans moved their New Year calendar to January 1st in the year 486 B.C. to honor the Roman god Janus. Sacrifices would be made to Janus on this day, and resolutions were made by the Romans to maintain good behavior. Fast forward to the 18th century when “Christians would hold mass on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day. Worshippers could reflect on the past year and make resolutions to do better in the year ahead. www.insightvacations.com. Since then, more and more cultures around the world have adopted the tradition. In our Cuban culture, we follow Spain’s tradition of eating 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight on December 31st. It’s a race! If you can manage to down all 12 grapes before the bell stops chiming 12 times, which is pretty darn hard, you can look forward to prosperity and abundance in the new year. In addition to eating the 12 grapes, another “must do” in Cuban culture is to forcefully throw a bucket of water out the front door in an “out with the bad, in with the good” ceremony. In Latin America and

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Mediterranean countries, New Year traditions are more based on “wishes” rather than resolutions. You wish for good things to come by engaging in different rituals, which can vary from jumping waves at the beach in Brazil to wearing red underwear in Italy to ancestor worship in China. These rituals tend not to feel as burdensome or serious as resolutions. In contrast, most Americans take New Year resolutions more seriously, usually focused on eating healthier, losing weight, or some other type of personal improvement goal. These resolutions are pretty goal-oriented. However, of the 41% of Americans who make resolutions, only 9% follow through with them. It begs the question of whether this practice is a healthy one since the rate of success could be higher. The way that News Year’s resolutions are framed in our society, they end up being goals and most motivation psychologists agree that this is why they fail. We humans are just not that good at breaking old habits and adopting new ones. “Goals come from the more rational, long-term-oriented part of your brain. Say you want to lose a few pounds, be nicer to people, or cut down on social media. You are not struggling to see why you want to change. The problem is the more impulsive, short-term-oriented part of your brain, the one that sustains your habits and takes over most of your day-to-day actions. Your brain is very good at automatizing behavior and freeing resources for other things. But, when those automatic behaviors conflict with your long-term goals, you struggle” www.psychologytoday.com.

Photos by Edward Howell

Are we doomed to fail at our New Year’s resolutions forever? Should we just give up on the whole idea? Not necessarily, say motivation psychologists. What we can do is frame things a bit differently. One option might be to adopt an approach that has worked very well in the field of business management, which is to adopt SMART goals. SMART stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Let’s take the idea of weight loss as a resolution. Instead of saying, “I want to lose weight,” you might want to break it down into small pieces and also reflect on why this resolution is important. When it comes to being specific, “I want to lose 10 lbs by June 1st” is not enough -that’s just the “what”. How do you expect to achieve this? For example, you may want to begin intermittent fasting on 5 out 7 days/week, or you could begin to track calories or carbs on an app to ensure that you stay within set ranges. You might want to adopt a Mediterranean or paleo diet and subscribe to a food delivery service tailored to those needs if you are too busy for meal prep at home. Once you answer the what and the how measuring progress is critical for success. You could measure progress by weighing yourself every two weeks (and setting an alert on your calendar as a reminder). And if you fall short of your expected progress, what are the options besides giving up? There’s great value to this executive, left-brain type of approach to resolutions. However, we also must engage our impulses and habits, which are not really great at understanding executive, left brain language. “The impulsive part of your brain does not speak in statements, though; it speaks in conditionals” www.psychologytoday.com. Motivation psychologists suggest that we speak to our impulsive brain in if-then state58 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

ments. If our resolution is to lose weight, then we might want to commit to specific actions that address triggers. For example, if we always order fries with our burgers, we can say, “If I order a burger, I will order a salad.” It helps to write these if-then conditions down daily until our behaviors begin to change and new, healthier habits kick in. If your resolution is to cut down on social media/ phone use, then perhaps you simply leave the phone in another room before you sit down for a meal -if I sit down to eat, I will leave my phone in the bedroom. This all sounds like a lot of work, and it is. My take on it is to choose only the worthwhile battles when it comes to New Year’s resolutions. That could include losing weight if there is an active health issue that needs to be addressed. If your health is great and you look good, but you’re obsessed about those last five pounds, then maybe it’s not worth taking on another goal. And most importantly, give yourself grace! We have the best intentions, and then life just happens. I learned that the hard way with my last New Year’s resolution about riding my horses more often -I was determined to ride at least four times a week. But despite my best efforts, I was struggling to get in two rides a week. I began to ask myself if I was losing motivation or getting lazy. I beat myself up quite frequently about it. It turns out I was finally diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder this Fall, and the reasons for my fatigue, sense of overwhelm, and heat and exercise intolerance made sense at last. I was not lazy or failing to meet my goals; I was simply too sick! Let’s do our collective best in 2025 to set good intentions for living the best life possible and celebrating all the little things we get done while dealing with complex and challenging times in our world. 2025 is the Year of Grace!

Dulce García-Morman, Ph.D. is founder of Life-Is-Art Equine Assisted Learning & Coaching. She has facilitated learning and therapeutic experiences through the horse-human connection for the past 17 years. Dulce’s practice draws from different wisdom traditions and is strongly oriented toward a Jungian approach to the restoration of the authentic Self.For more information, visit https://life-is-art.us/

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Winter walk at Sandy Point State Reservation, Plum Island, MA by Dr. Rob Moir

We Want Decarbonization of the Atmosphere and

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limate change is a complicated problem to solve, and it's not getting any easier in this political climate. Yet, hope looms like a beacon shining over rough seas and rising winds. We need to stay the course with all running lights burning bright. For decarbonization, nations must work with businesses, steer toward net zero emissions, and stop the rise in CO2 emissions. Significant progress was made when nearly 200 countries met in Baku, Azerbaijan, for the UN Climate Conference COP29. The conference was democracy in action, where no higher authority could tell nations what to do. A unanimous voluntary consensus across all countries must be reached before a resolution can be approved. To be effective, nations must work with businesses, and only they can regulate corporations. Decarbonization accomplishments are significant at the global level. All countries agreed to raise the "New Climate Quantified Goal for climate finance." Under the centralized carbon crediting mechanism, environmental and human rights projects cannot proceed without the informed consent of Indigenous People. Climate finance's quantity, quality, and sources were increased to support developing countries. Unfortunately, nations disagreed on binding commitments to phase out fossil fuel subsidies. However, most of the biggest fossil-fuel-burning nations are making significant reduction commitments. At the local level, it is a different story. Our interest in decarbonating actions that require changes decreases dramatically when rewards are vague or for future generations. This requires faith in scientific communications. Unfortunately, "the science" we must listen to has apocalyptic overtones. To many, the battle for market share between fossil fuel and green industries (solar, wind, EVs, etc.) appears like that

of Pepsi vs. Coke at the Super Bowl. Just as we drink more cola during the game, regardless of the brand, we will always consume more energy if it is made available. Regardless of who is winning, consumption and profits go up for both. On an individual level, fighting climate change should be as commonsensical as planting bulbs in the fall so flowers bloom in the spring. The climate is also changing because we have upset the balance of nature, with the loss of vegetation and soils replaced by impervious surfaces and heat islands, followed by stormwater management issues. Restoring nature, planting vegetation, deepening soils, and more rain gardens that will hold more water to reduce stormwater damage will produce results with tangible quality-of-life improvements. We can take the field with more talk of rehydration and less decarbonization banter. We repair the Earth's water cycle with more vegetation, more cooling white fluffy cumulous clouds, The Simpsons' skies, and less heat-trapping cirrus clouds. Viewing climate change as a symptom of what we do to the land puts the problem in our hands. We find ways to increase the carbon drawdown with more plant photosynthesis, deepen soils to hold more water when in abundance with less stormwater runoff, and keep more water in the land when needed during dry periods. By comprehending the big picture and taking a more ecologically holistic approach, we decarbonize the atmosphere and rehydrate the land. Look not to the future but to the present predicament. Let's act today for immediate and seasonal improvements that will benefit all. Despite the winter darkness, more flowers will grow and bloom in the spring when there is more vegetation and soil, fewer impervious surfaces, and the Earth is rehydrated.

Dr. Rob Moir is a nationallyrecognized and award-winning environmentalist. He is president & executive director of Cambridge, MA-based Ocean River Institute, a nonprofit providing expertise, services, resources, and information unavailable on a localized level to support the efforts of environmental organizations. For more information. please visit www.oceanriver.org

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Transcendental Voyages: Roaming the World and Reimagining the Self By Jan Wakefield, M.A.

An Inward Journey:

Where the Dimensions of Healing and Travel Come Together for a Magnificent Future 64 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

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’ve always been comfortable with new places, faces, and experiences because travel has been an intrinsic part of my life. With each destination, my excitement of exploration was only eclipsed by the grace of the inward changes and becoming a much better human along the way. For nearly a decade, however, travel became medicine as I battled with a severe chronic medical condition. What once brought me waves of joy became a desperate search for a cure. I knew I was slowly dying, so I used to travel as a way of reclaiming a shred of the light within me. With each destination, I booked excursions on the calendar, and right next to the excursion was the closest hospital or medical clinic. Everything changed in 2024 when a twist of fate took me on a healing journey that ultimately healed my condition and changed the course of my life. As 2024 rolled into 2025, I took a moment to take inventory of the year past as well as the entire previous decade. In short, I visited 13 countries, traveled nearly a million miles on planes, and brought my understanding of the vast diversity of the world into a much richer and deeper sense of beauty, yet the places I traveled were nothing compared to the journey of health and wellness I explored along the way. Healing myself

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from a chronic and debilitating medical condition was the most profound form of transformational travel I embarked upon in the last year, and I was not disappointed that no airline gave me miles for the journey. About ten years ago, chronic migraines consumed a good portion of my days, and travel became part of my journey to wellness. As I ticked off all the available options for treatment in my own community, I searched far and wide for solutions. Only one place brought relief, and that place became my home in 2021. In Hawaii, due to its utterly stable weather, I experienced less pain, duration of symptoms, and overall discomfort than anywhere in the world, but I couldn’t deny the fact that my condition was compounded with new, coexisting illnesses each year. My pain and symptoms were a daily grind. Chronic migraineurs live life holding a live grenade waiting to explode into blinding headaches, physical instability, searing sensory sensitivity, and a whole gamut of other neurological dysfunctions that could present themselves as stroke-like symptoms. In late 2022, I was hospitalized with severe abdominal pain, and kidney infarction due to migraine medication overuse became a new problem.

The doctor in the hospital took me off all medications, and I was sent home in sheer terror of what was next. Migraine symptoms progressed to rapid onset (within a few minutes), and nearly every time a migraine kicked in, I went completely blind. I knew it was not long before I lost my driver’s license and was put on full disability. I was desperate for solutions. A friend introduced me to a book called Becoming Supernatural, which changed my life. Thousands of people had healed themselves with the meditations suggested in this author’s books. I had nothing to lose, so I gave it a try. One year later, I registered for a meditation retreat with the author of the book. I attended three retreats in 2024, and through the inward journey of meditation, I have completely healed my condition.

a whopping 80% migraine-symptom-free. The retreat stoked a fire in me that compelled me to sign up for an additional retreat, three months later and an additional retreat three months after that. After the second retreat in Marco Island, Florida, I was completely migraine-free and well on my way to healing all coexisting conditions.

It was a challenge to sit for even 20 minutes when I first started meditating. My body ached, and my thoughts were constantly gripping me about my own inadequacies. As I moved more deeply into the unknown, my thoughts revealed patterns and the patterns revealed some alarming habits in my life. It wasn’t long before the only time I was pain-free was when I was meditating. Chasing the euphoric feeling of wellness consumed me, and I discovered that five hours of meditation a day allowed me to be pain-free most of the time.

What most people do not understand is that we each hold within us the ability to heal. I explored every possible medical treatment for all my conditions, and when none of them cured me, I went on a journey within. The work took time and patience, but it was worth every minute. I still meditate two to five hours a day, and I feel blessed to travel within to connect with my vibrant self. I am free.

With each meditation, I felt myself letting go of everything, forgiving myself for self-inflicted challenges, and releasing all my traumas of the past. I was on the way to wellness, but the nagging feeling of migraine still lingered in the background of my days. In June 2024, in Cancun, Mexico, I learned that I was stronger than I ever believed possible. The robust retreat schedule included around 30 hours of meditation in addition to lectures. Ignoring and enduring all symptoms, I participated in everything on the schedule, completely believed in my ability to be well, and returned home

Returning to Cancun, Mexico, for an additional ten-day retreat in December 2024, I tasked myself with healing chronic, systemic candida, long-haul COVID-19, and memory problems associated with each. After ten days and nearly 40 hours of meditation, I returned home with no symptoms. My test results are pending, but I know what they will say. I am completely cured.

One year ago today, I was poised to commit suicide because I was suffering so much. Meditation was my lastditch effort. I promised myself that if it didn’t work, I’d give up the fight, give up the minute-by-minute attention to my condition, and call it a day. I could never have imagined my life could be this lovely. I never could have written the story of transformation in this way, but I am endlessly grateful that I did not give up on wellness. 2024 proved to be the most transformational year of my life; the journey was inward, and I racked up countless miles in the unknown. As I walked along the beach this morning with my dog, I looked out at the ocean and said aloud, “I love my life.” My heart is full of joy, and I cherish each step into my unknown but magnificent future.

A lifelong traveler and educator, Jan Wakefield sees the world as a vast opportunity for expanding her understanding of the human condition. For her, travel equals transformation. Jan’s passion for travel and decades of experience as a personal transformation coach are the foundation for her international retreats, where people release who they once were and embrace who they want to be through meditation, relaxation, and a gentle return to self. In addition, Jan plans to visit all 195 countries in the world and share her experiences with readers and audiences worldwide. For more about Jan’s transformational retreats and programs, visit http://jan-wakefield.com

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Heartfelt conversations with Émilie Macas

From my heart to yours

A New Year message

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Photo by Niko Tsviliov

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ear beautiful souls,

As we welcome the New Year, I wish you all a happy, healthy, prosperous, and fulfilling journey ahead. Thank you for sharing this space with me by reading my words. May you embrace countless blessings in the year to come. I have always treasured the New Year, as it signifies the end of a cycle and the beginning of a brand new book of life filled with 365 blank pages. It is a new beginning, opening many opportunities to start and do everything new. In 2024, Pluto transitioned into the astrological sign of Aquarius, marking the beginning of a nearly 20-year period of its presence in this sign. Furthermore, four additional planets—Neptune, Uranus, Saturn, and Jupiter—are anticipated to change signs within the astrological chart. This series of planetary movements is of considerable significance and has become a focal point of analysis for numerous astrologers. The transition of even a single outer planet can have profound implications for our individual lives and the collective experience of humanity. However, the antic-

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ipated shifts in 2025 are expected to be incredibly transformative, potentially steering our world toward a new and uncharted direction. This cosmic event may herald changes that inspire growth, challenge old paradigms, and illuminate paths we have yet to explore. I am not an astrologist and won't delve too deeply into astrology, but I would like to share some of my thoughts and feelings. These may not resonate with everyone, but perhaps they will with some. 1 After losing two of my loved ones within a week in 2023, I was profoundly affected and reminded of the certainty of our mortality. I audited every aspect of my life and engaged in deep reflection. I began to ask myself meaningful questions that sparked new perspectives and inspired growth. This life audit revealed the essential changes I needed to make in my personal life and career, showing me what to let go of and what was holding me back. We live in a world where most people want changes but do not want to change. At times, there is this belief that meaningful transformations can only happen if external changes happen first.

In truth, the most powerful changes start from within. It takes a willingness to make choices and redirect our lives when necessary, and it requires courage to live the life we design for ourselves. Change is not always easy. We must surrender to the unknown, which can be uneasy and uncomfortable. Growth in our lives never happens if we stay in our comfort zone. We must remain and see life through children's eyes full of wonder and curiosity. Though grief and sadness weighed heavily on me, the harsh reality that life is a passage and all we have is the now. The awareness I gained from reflecting on my life empowered me to embrace the beauty of serendipity. Following my intuition, even though my rational mind couldn't make sense of some of the steps I took, my heart did.

“

In 2024, my journey opened up incredible opportunities for me. I was invited by my writing mentor and best-selling author, Neil Strauss, to share my expertise on trauma during a podcast that reached millions of listeners worldwide. Additionally, I received several invitations to be a guest speaker at schools, where I provided mindfulness resources to parents and staff. One of the highlights of my year was meeting the inspiring Maryam Morrison, the founder and editor of The Eden Magazine. Her invitation to contribute to this conscious magazine was a precious moment for me. I am the author

of The Naked Truth of a Healer: The Path to My Authentic Self. Writing my book in English, being my third language, was already a big accomplishment. However, writing for a magazine has been a dream come true for me. As a child, I loved writing poetry and expressing my thoughts through the art of writing. I have always aspired to write for a magazine. A year ago, my book was featured in the January 2024 issue, and now I am honored to have a "Heartfelt Conversations" column on this remarkable platform, where I can share my expertise, experiences, and thoughts. Together, we explore the power of meaningful dialogue and connection. I believe that if I hadn't deeply reflected on my life, committed to changing the things that didn't support my growth, and listened to my intuition, I would have missed out on the incredible opportunities that 2024 had to offer me. Self-reflection and self-inquiry are valuable assets for growth and evolution in our lives. As I shared my reflections with you, I invite you to take a moment to reflect on the past year as we close that chapter. What is one sentence you would use to describe your year? What were your biggest challenges, and what lessons did you learn from them? How have you changed over the year?

Healing is not about "fixing ourselves" because we are not broken. We may be wounded, but we are not broken. Healing is about diving deep to reveal the inner light beneath our traumas, unmet childhood needs, patterns, coping mechanisms, and limiting beliefs.

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As you look forward to 2025, what "golden nuggets" do you want to carry into the New Year? What is one area of your life that you would like to improve on the most? What are some beliefs you hold that might be holding you back? Are you living true to yourself? Are you healthy physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually? These are a few questions to spark your inner inquiry. I wholeheartedly wish you to commit to discovering yourself this year and uncovering who you truly are. Remember, unleashing our magic is an inside job. And when we do, we open the door to infinite possibilities! Healing is not about "fixing ourselves" because we are not broken. We may be wounded, but we are not broken. Healing is about diving deep to reveal the inner light beneath our traumas, unmet childhood needs, patterns, coping mechanisms, and limiting beliefs. I warmly invite each of you to embark on this transformative journey of self-discovery, which holds the potential to enrich your life in profound ways. As you consciously make positive changes in your daily routines and fully embrace the unique light within you, you catalyze a ripple effect that spreads light, love, compassion, positivity, and peace throughout your community and beyond. Dr. Deepak Chopra wisely reminds us that "social change starts with personal changes." This insight emphasizes the importance of individual growth and transformation as the foundation for broader societal improvements.

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Often, we may not fully recognize that by intentionally designing the life we truly desire, we can begin to heal the emotional wounds we carry from our past. It is crucial to address and "dust off" our lenses—that is, those perspectives shaped by previous experiences— to perceive ourselves and others in the authentic light we possess. As we cultivate compassion for ourselves, acknowledge our struggles, and celebrate our strengths, we foster inner peace and extend that compassion outward. This ability to empathize with others encourages a supportive environment where meaningful change can occur. By embodying compassion and positivity, we inspire those around us to embark on their journeys of self-discovery and growth, which ultimately creates a more harmonious and understanding world. Let me share something with you. I felt a profound sense of responsibility as I embarked on writing this article for the January 2025 edition. The weight of expectation loomed over me, and I placed significant pressure on myself to craft something that would inspire readers and motivate them in meaningful ways. In moments of frustration, I took a step back and reminded myself of the importance of authenticity in my writing. Connecting with readers personally and sharing my genuine thoughts and experiences would be far more impactful than striving for the perfect article. By embracing my true self and inviting you all into my journey, I hope to inspire and ignite a spark of motivation within each of you.

1. Astrologer Claims 2025 Is The Most Important Year Of The Century | YourTango

Émilie Macas is a transformational holistic educator, Reiki Teacher and trauma counsellor, mindfulness and Chopra meditation educator, certified life coach, author, and motivational speaker. Émilie has owned a private practice for over a decade. She continues to empower others to adopt a spirit of raw truthfulness, guiding them to their inner wisdom and empowering them to connect with their inner pharmacy.

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By Zee

CHAPTER 4

A NEW DISCOVERY

AM I LIVING, OR AM I DYING

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Photo by Sergey Vinogradov

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he discovery journey into one’s health can be a long and arduous road full of upheavals, setbacks, and doubt. Which does and will temporally break into our emotional state of being. One may become comfortable relying on family and friends, yet ultimately, it comes down to you and the strength of one’s belief in self. The big discovery for anyone facing any issue appearing small or larger than life is in knowing that your foundation is stronger than any FEARS you have been pretending to exist as REAL! Then comes confusion, marching out of the forest from all of one’s yesterdays. These past weeks have not been easy. It’s a frightening space to live in, as one experiences a complete emptiness in “who am I” being. When one becomes aware, the physical body has left, and nothing remains. All muscles deteriorate into empty flesh, and turning a page in a book is physically painful. Fortunately, one month prior to being informed of 4th stage cancer, I attended a Tai Chi class like no other. Now, looking back, a blessing was in the making. Unknowingly, my body and mind had been leading me in this direction for weeks. After researching the benefits of exercise while on chemo treatment, I am now back attending classes. Although, for some weeks, it feels like the only reason I am able to remain standing is by sheer willpower alone. Is this a dream? What is happening to me? Am I living a dream within a dream? Is it the cancer or this so-called cure that has ravished me physically and mentally? For now, I

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am unsure which is killing me the fastest. As for the mind, how does one feed it when there is this incredible amount of information on the internet by persons who have never experienced cancer personally? The numbers and types of variations under the name cancer are enormous. Cures are being sold at 10 for a dollar. At this rate, gazing at white clouds will become the number one best cure of cancer available! Emerging from all this confusion, I can feel that the time I spent has arrived with a defined need for change. In the beginning, one’s thoughts are primarily focused on remaining alive and engaging with whatever is necessary to survive. As I progressed down this unknown path of uncertainty, questions continually arose. Is there a future worth living, even possible, and what are my options? After weeks steeped in innumerable mind reflections of could of, should of has subsided, the mind begins down another path of untold contemplations. As one peers down this long road, a signposted as “Memory Lane,” past mistakes reappear through the mist. Accompanied by a barrage of never-ending choices often chosen unwisely. Eventually, due to the overall state of one’s condition, that one single moment had to arrive. At that moment, after many weeks, one slowly began to fully grasp the overall situation. When lost in the emptiness of what’s next, one’s soul reaches out from behind watery eyes. Requests are one to question, purge, and clarify their self-informed observations. Am I living, or am I dying?

How large are tomorrow’s challenges? One has absolutely no idea. What is certain is if and when one decides to live, and this also refers to you and every human regardless of how you or they are experiencing life. Living is not something you choose to do half-heartedly. Otherwise, in this conflux of earthly dualities, one’s life most definitely will be swallowed whole while you are looking in the opposite direction. If you think a piece of string is short, it’s actually “C’est assez long” quite long, in comparison to how short one’s life is. Beginning at birth to completion, you may have lived a long life in years. Looking back, one can see the complete journey in less than 5 minutes. Decide to decide. Am I in or out? The sent email reads, thank you for everything, regards. The response to the chemo and drugs has been intense up to this point in time. Therefore, I can no longer continue with the recommended medical treatments. From this moment forward, I will be going down the non-medical road to cancer recovery alone. I understand this will require strength in one’s resilience, especially when faced with tough decisions and those nasty, reoccurring negative emotions. Where to next, one inquires. Unfortunately, it appears that any opensourced solutions on the internet are difficult to research or nonexistent. We are talking about life-and-death situations for thousands of humans around the globe! Is this for real? You don’t have to stretch the imagination to know this is totally inhumane. The internet appears to be riddled with good, scary, and lack of advice on how to survive a cancer journey. For myself, the most pressing issue is how to control the pain contributed by the now-damaged nerves, continuously exploding in the sole of my right foot. Now what? Pain relief drugs

are not available via prescription. After weeks of inquiry, a solution appeared with the caption, don’t drive within 24 hours after consumption. Who said the universe doesn’t provide? Oh yeah, baby. Who, in their right mind, gives up a free 6 figure treatment for the now-expected expense of self-supply? What are you going to do now? A strict protocol will be necessary if one wishes to witness December 2025. A return to the gym, pronto. At this moment, there are only 18 pills for breakfast and 13 for the evening meal. Turkey tail is on the menu. Can we do without coffee? Midday intake pill options vary with the mood of the moment. The challenge is how one engages in an unexpected relationship with this new wonder-learning curve. The distance mentally one will and must travel to achieve complete eradication of this parasite will no doubt surprise. At this point, I can truthfully say the taste of one’s urine has not been so great. Information abounds. It’s the regurgitation we pass from one another to validate our existence within the framework needed for an acceptable self-knowledgeable worthiness. And so down the trodden pathway we travel, under the pretense that change is forever possible. Independently, yes, we can, collectively, as the homogenized humans we have adopted to become, but we are not so sure. One has only to look around and observe the signs. Yes, it’s unfortunate we decided to give up our one true spirit when we consented and then allowed our gonads to be removed. Now, it appears we spend our lifetime seeking, in vain, one’s given-away spirit. So, one may once again feel whole and complete. It’s a bit like being a cancer patient craving sugar to survive!

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Death, as we know it, sits within an inch of life. Yet here we are, with the utter lunacy of war shoved in our faces as if being a human has no meaning and war has no consequence. Decided only by those who have a love of power and money. Have they learned nothing from the last ten thousand years of past experiences? I realise going forward, what the past has contributed no longer has any relevance above zero. To exist in the future, one’s functioning abilities have once again reached the diaper stage of living. If freedom could exist, it might just be the internal willpower needed to start over and renew without any preconceived ideas confined by past thinking and false beliefs. What comes next? Let’s just make it all up! At this moment, it is completely an up-and-coming process. Settling into this new routine has brought its own set of complications. Mainly due to adapting those changes that are necessary for the best possible outcome. Combined with the constant memory loss of forgetting to take my pills at mealtime. Food, what is it we are not being told? This remains a mystery, a well-kept, cautiously concealed story, existing all on its own. What can we eat, and can it be classified as edible, nutritious, or healthy? Labels, what are they not telling us about the food we are putting into our bodies? Responsibility has now been redefined and, therefore, reassigned with a whole new set of self-made definitions. Maybe you could use this moment to update your definitions. You are the most powerful. It’s a great line at a motivational conference to

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elevate you up and beyond. Some may even get you to walk on hot coals to momentarily experience a taste of being free. Yes, down through the ages, we have been told that you are the most powerful person; we just have to find that missing-you person. Having a major issue like cancer might just do the trick to awaken those lost juices residing in the darkness. Especially if you are past 66 and one’s life experiences have not yet beaten you down into status quo submission. So where does one start beyond the obvious take-care-of necessities one was forced to adopt out of The Get-Go? Who am I being? This one question is a great start in any rejuvenating process. What limiting beliefs am I projecting onto myself, and do they have any beneficial attributes in overcoming my current situation? Life may sometimes appear as a strange illusion. It’s easy to give up and adhere to the advice of those intellectuals. Remember, their knowledge is equal to that of a second-hand store; it’s all hand-me-down information. There is always another way; nothing is fixed except for the knowledge and beliefs a person acquires from misappropriated experiences. Change, is required now more than ever. If a future of a different flavour, is to be achieved. Will-Power does exist, even if it is called by another name. When one begins to allow for new solutions, you are now inviting a renewed sense of self and empowering all closed possibilities to reemerge you, into a living transformation. Happy days.

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A Guide to High-Vibrational Living By Polly Wirum

HONORING the tools that no longer serve YOU

s there anything in your life that you have outgrown but you're not sure how to step into your future without it? This can be particularly difficult if it's something that has helped you heal and gain self-empowerment. This article is written to help you honor and celebrate what supported the expansion into your present state of consciousness.

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Photo by Soroush Golpoor

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My Story When I experienced a health challenge, many years ago, my world changed overnight. Everything happened so fast; it felt like I went to sleep and woke up the next morning with crazy good psychic abilities. This awareness was intertwined with a new understanding of my world that had become very spiritual. I developed a great reverence for my ability to communicate with both the seen and unseen. After a year or so, I began offering life coaching and psychic reading to clients. My new business was exciting, empowering, and fulfilling. I offered weekly spiritual and meditation classes and traveled out of state for events. This was the part of my life outside of being a wife and parent. My business filled a void in my life; it also helped me honor one of the most sacred parts of my life plan. This new way of being brought me into a higher vibrational consciousness. It opened the door to new relationships and experiences. For the past couple of years, I could feel a doorway closing that once channeled inspiration and high energy. I knew change was coming in my business, but I didn't have a clear plan. Trusting the process of transformation is not new to me. I didn't stop living, but I paid attention to all the shifts going on in my life.

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I even paused writing my book; I couldn't complete my story until a new way was shown to me. My children are out of the house, and I am divorced, and a new way is slowly taking form. I am ready to stop seeing clients and working as a psychic life coach. My spirituality is very much intact, but my desire to do life coaching and healing work has dissipated. I fully recognized how my psychic gifts and my business empowered me and helped me discover a part of myself that had been dormant. My gratitude for the abilities I was given is very much alive, just as the gratitude for the clients that trusted me with their journey. I am now ready to experience my spirituality and even psychic abilities in a different way. The form has yet to be completely clear, but my life journey is beginning to feel more expansive, and the path is lighter. Sometimes I feel incredibly vulnerable. I have moved to a new town, let go of pieces of my identity, I have almost completely started over. Within the vulnerability there is gratitude for so much, and even a feeling of empowerment, as I open my heart and mind to a new way of being.

Sometimes, I think the greatest gratitude I can offer the Universe is recognizing that I no longer need the tools that helped me expand as a human and spiritual being. Is there anything that helped you become your best self, but now it's time to experience life differently? How To Honor and Celebrate What You No Longer Need Part of honoring our transformations is recognizing timing is an essential part of personal expansion. We may feel the pull of change, long before it shows up in our life. This is the perfect time to pour gratitude into your journey and think about what you might want to experience or feel in the future. Recognizing the many forms of support you received during your journey is huge! This might have been a teacher who came into your life, or maybe you developed a deeper connection with the angelic realm. Whatever helped you expand your consciousness will always be important, even if it now rests in your memories. We are always being offered opportunities for new directions in our life. Some of them go unnoticed, because we are not ready to change our life. Pay attention to what shows up as a potential new expression of self. Does it require you to let go of a past version of yourself? Is this opportunity worth the risk it takes to step out of your comfort zone? Imagine that the older version of you has already begun to fall away and is making room for your expansion. Notice what skills and tools you are no longer using. Have you already stopped using the tools or mindset that come with an identity and haven't realized it? Imagine

a craftsman who has mastered his art and now observes his apprentice creating what was once his path to abundance. This shift has created the perfect opportunity to expand into a new way of being. Not all parts of our past identity need to be released back to the Universe. Using myself as an example, I'm keeping my spirituality and even psychic skills but no longer offering readings to the public. I kept the best of my expansive experience, yet the door is open for a new understanding of the Universe. If you are struggling with releasing what you have outgrown, consider hiring a life coach. This can be an emotional and vulnerable time in a person's life, but also beautiful. Celebrate your growth. You have expanded as a human and spiritual being. Celebrate that you mastered a lesson or way of being and are now ready for higher awareness. Well done! Wrapping It Up If you find yourself at a pivotal point in your life, chances are you are being offered an opportunity for growth. This will require letting go of something, as you find a new way of being. Chances are there will be some discomfort with the expansion. The good news is, you have been in similar situations before and did an amazing job navigating life. As humans our experiences sometimes seem rough and jagged as we move through them. When we evolve beyond the human experience it all makes sense and appears as a bright light in our life story and evolution. Thank you for reading, and I hope this article helps you recognize the beautiful points of expansion in your life

Polly Wirum is a psychic, life coach, and writer. Years ago, she experienced a health crisis that led to a complete spiritual and life transformation. When she thought her life was crumbling, the universe was easing her grip on everything, distracting her from the truth. The healing helped her discover the beauty of a joyful and uncomplicated life. It is here that she connects with wisdom and magic. She shares this with her clients through life’s coaching psychic readings and spiritual retreats. visit Pollywirum.com

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The Angel Connection By Nikki Pattillo

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he reality of our current earthly and environmental crisis is stark. Climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and social inequality loom large, threatening the future of our planet and all its inhabitants. Yet, amid this crisis lies an opportunity: the chance to rethink our relationship with our planet. For meaningful change to take place in our world, we must collectively adopt a mindset of responsibility, innovation, and collaboration. One thing is for certain: change must take place for a new and better Earth, and this includes changes across various domains—environmental, social, and technological—for us to create a sustainable and equitable future. There is an urgency for action regarding environmental change on our Earth. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has made it abundantly clear that without immediate and transformative action, the world will face catastrophic consequences. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and melting ice caps are just a few manifestations of climate change. To combat this, we need to transition to newer and better renewable energy sources. By investing in solar, wind, and geothermal energy, we can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Governments must also incentivize energy efficiency in homes and

industries, promote electric vehicles, and implement carbon pricing mechanisms to hold polluters accountable, and this needs to be done on a global scale. Alongside climate action, protecting our planet’s biodiversity is critical. Every species plays a role in its ecosystem, and the loss of even a single one can have cascading effects in every aspect of our lives. To address this, we need to enforce stricter regulations on deforestation, overfishing, and habitat destruction. Protected areas must be expanded, and restoration projects should be prioritized. Supporting sustainable agriculture practices can also help preserve biodiversity by reducing the reliance on harmful pesticides and promoting crop rotation and polyculture farming. Our current linear model of “take, make, dispose,” as far as waste reduction is concerned, is outdated and unsustainable. Transitioning to a circular economy, where products are designed for repair, reuse, and recycling, is essential. This requires collaboration between businesses, governments, and consumers. Companies must embrace sustainable practices, from sourcing raw materials responsibly to designing products that minimize waste. Meanwhile, individuals can adopt habits like composting, reducing single-use plastics, and supporting local businesses that prioritize sustainability.

It’s also clear to see that environmental issues disproportionately affect marginalized communities, who often lack the resources to adapt. Therefore, social change must prioritize environmental justice. Policymakers need to engage with these communities to understand their specific needs and challenges. This involves creating equitable access to green spaces, clean water, and healthy food. Community-driven initiatives that empower local voices can help ensure that all people have a say in decisions affecting their environment. Education also plays a pivotal role in fostering a culture of sustainability. Incorporating environmental studies into school curricula can equip future generations with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle environmental challenges. Furthermore, public awareness campaigns can engage communities in sustainability efforts, emphasizing the interconnectedness of social issues and environmental health. Workshops, seminars, and community projects can also empower individuals to take action and promote a collective sense of responsibility. Achieving environmental goals also requires addressing economic inequality. The green economy must be inclusive, providing job opportunities in renewable energy, sustainable agri-

culture, and conservation efforts. Governments should invest in training programs that equip workers with the skills necessary for green jobs. By fostering an inclusive economy, we can alleviate poverty while promoting environmental stewardship. Innovation can be a powerful ally in our quest for a newer and better planet. Advancements in sustainable technology—from energy-efficient appliances to carbon capture systems—can significantly reduce our environmental footprint. Research and development should be prioritized in areas such as clean energy storage, sustainable transportation, and waste management technologies. Governments and private sectors should collaborate to fund these initiatives, making sustainable technology accessible to all. The concept of smart cities integrates various technologies to enhance urban living while minimizing environmental impact. By utilizing data and analytics, cities can optimize energy usage, reduce waste, and improve transportation systems. Smart grids can manage energy distribution efficiently, while smart waste management systems can streamline recycling efforts. Cities should prioritize the development of green infrastructures, such as parks and green roofs, to enhance urban biodiversity and improve residents’ quality of life.

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Envisioning a better planet involves imagining a society where sustainability is woven into the fabric of daily life. This means rethinking urban planning to create green spaces, developing public transport systems that prioritize accessibility, and ensuring that all communities have access to clean air and water. As technology becomes increasingly integral to our lives, responsible consumption is paramount. E-waste poses a significant environmental threat, with millions of tons discarded each year. Companies must implement take-back programs to recycle old devices, and consumers should prioritize buying refurbished products. Raising awareness about the lifecycle of technology and its environmental impact can drive more sustainable consumer choices. One thing is for sure: the change needed to make our planet a newer and better place begins at the grassroots level. Local communities are often the first to feel the impacts of environmental degradation, making their involvement crucial in the quest for a better planet. Community engagement initiatives—like neighborhood cleanups, tree-planting events, and local farmers markets—foster a sense of ownership and responsibility toward the environment. These efforts not only improve ecosystems on a local level but also strengthen community bonds. Collaborative efforts among different stakeholders, such as government, businesses, NGOs, and citizens, can amplify the impact of local initiatives as well. Partnerships can lead to innovative solutions that address both environmental and social challenges. For example, community gardens can provide fresh produce while also serving as educational platforms for sustainable agriculture practices. Every community has unique strengths and challenges on our planet. Celebrating and promoting local solutions can inspire others to take action. Case studies of suc-

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cessful grassroots movements can serve as models for replication in other areas that need help and improvement. A few people who fought for grassroots activism include Gretta Thunberg, who is a climate activist in Sweden; Vanessa Nakate, who stood for climate justice in Uganda; David Attenborough, who fought for nature conservationism; and Vandana Shiva, who is an advocate for sustainable agriculture in India, just to name a few. One can see that sharing knowledge and resources empowers communities to tackle their specific environmental issues effectively. Environmental issues are not confined by borders; they require a global response. Global change can and should be a collective responsibility. International cooperation is essential for addressing climate change, protecting biodiversity, and promoting sustainable development. Countries must honor their commitments under agreements like the Paris Accord, ensuring that emissions reduction targets are met. Sharing technology and resources between nations, especially to support developing countries, is vital for global progress and a better, healthier planet. While working towards a new and better earth, individuals can influence global and policy change through advocacy. Grassroots movements, social media campaigns, and public protests raise awareness and pressure governments and corporations to prioritize sustainability. By holding leaders accountable, citizens can ensure that environmental policies are not only enacted but also enforced.

The choices we make as consumers have far-reaching effects on our planet. Look at ethical consumerism. This encourages people to support businesses that prioritize sustainability and social responsibility. By making conscious purchasing decisions, we can drive the demand for environmentally friendly products and services, which may influence companies to adopt better practices. Envisioning a better planet involves imagining a society where sustainability is woven into the fabric of daily life. This means rethinking urban planning to create green spaces, developing public transport systems that prioritize accessibility, and ensuring that all communities have access to clean air and water. This should be the vision for the future: a sustainable society. In this vision, people could recognize their interconnectedness—not just with each other but with the entire planet. Global awareness fosters empathy and understanding, encouraging individuals to act in the interest of the collective good. Cultivating a sense of stewardship toward the Earth can become a core value of society. Finally, a better planet is built on hope and resilience. Despite the challenges we face, communities can come together to create change. Acknowledge successes, learn from failures, and celebrate progress, no matter how small. Resilience in the face of adversity is an important defining characteristic of our society. Change is not merely a necessity; it is an opportunity for innovation, collaboration, and growth. By embracing environmental stewardship, social equity, technological advancement, and community engagement, we can forge a better planet for current and future generations. Each of us has a role to play in this transformation—whether through individual actions, community initiatives, or global advocacy.

Imagine a world where harmony prevails. An Earth enriched by sustainable practices and a deep respect for nature. Renewable energy sources like solar and wind power dominate, reducing our carbon footprint and mitigating climate change. Cities could be designed with green spaces, promoting biodiversity and improving air quality. Communities thrive on cooperation and this embraces diversity and fosters inclusivity. Education is always accessible to all people, empowering individuals to pursue their passions and contribute meaningfully to society. In a perfect word, health care would prioritize well-being over profit, ensuring that everyone receives the care they need. Innovative technology can enhance our lives while respecting the planet. Waste is minimized through circular economies, where materials are reused and recycled. Food systems prioritize local, organic agriculture, supporting farmers, and reducing transportation emissions. In this new Earth, connection with nature is paramount. Urban areas integrate parks and wildlife corridors, inviting residents to experience the beauty of nature on our planet. Ultimately, a better Earth is one where compassion and sustainability guide our choices, creating a legacy of hope and resilience for future generations. Together, we can transform our planet into a thriving ecosystem where every being flourishes in balance and peace. As we stand at this crossroads, we must choose the path of sustainability and equity. The journey may be challenging, but the vision of a better, more harmonious planet is within reach. Together, we can cultivate a world that thrives—one where people, nature, and technology coexist in balance, ensuring a vibrant future for all. Indeed, what an incredible new Earth this would be.

Nikki Pattillo graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas and began her career as a clinical and molecular biologist. As a child, Nikki was psychic, conversing regularly with her angels and guides, but it wasn’t until she was in her 30s that she accepted her gift. She is now an international author with Ozark Mountain Publishing. She authored Children of Stars: Advice for Parents and Star Children, A Spiritual Evolution, A Day in Spirit: A Spiritual Calendar for Teens, and A Golden Compass. She has been featured on BRAVO and The History Channel and writes numerous magazine and newspaper articles to help raise awareness and consciousness of environmental and spiritual issues.

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Photo by Adi Goldstein

The Way I See It By Joey Santos

THE BELIEF THAT ONE INHERENTLY DESERVES PRIVILEGES OR SPECIAL TREATMENT

can't be the only person who has noticed the lack of courtesy, gratitude, manners, and decorum lately. Let's break it down. I wish my observations were more imaginary, but as much of a realist as I am, that's highly unlikely.

While we're keeping it real, let me say: "I'm fed up. I'm fed up to my neck." Since the age of 12, I was brought up in Southern California - West Hollywood Hills and Malibu, to be exact. But I was in Manhattan, NY, before moving to California.

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My Father, a die-hard New Yorker from birth, vowed he could never live anywhere else, let alone LA. He was an Actor and Director. Eventually, his work decided that the family would move from NY to Los Angeles. Once we arrived, I remember him saying to my Mother, "Forget New York! This is home." He was a car guy. He liked driving but was frustrated with New York City traffic. The first thing he did when he arrived was buy a convertible. He loved the ease of getting back and forth to the film studios, the views, and the winding roads through the canyons up to the hills. He enjoyed the curvy drive down Sunset Blvd to PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) and the proximity from Beverly Hills to the beach. My Dad loved the ocean. He'd often brag about how it would take him 15 minutes to get anywhere in this town. He'd say, "I can grab a flight out of LAX from Hollywood in 15 minutes. Get to work at Universal Studios in 15 minutes. Or get back to the beach and bury my head in the sand in 15 minutes!" And went on to say, "Plus, everyone here is so friendly, helpful, laid back, casual and courteous." Well, Dad, not anymore. And not just here, but it seems that way anywhere and everywhere! What changed? How did it change? Why? Maybe we stopped caring about manners. Or have we snapped into some altered belief that we are better than everyone else and have no time for kindness and politeness? It seems that everyone is in a blind frenzy to get somewhere or in a manic panic to dismiss someone for literally taking a pause. Not to date me, but there was a TV commercial (some time ago ) with the tagline and song "Don't Cross In The Middle Of The Block" by Mitch Miller. I just dated myself, after all. Regardless, it made one think every time you step off of a curb, you should be aware of your

surroundings, whether it be a car, a bus, or a motorcycle speeding down the road, not paying any mind to the signs ahead. There were even Drivers Education classes taught in school, reminding us. I can't count how many close calls I've had lately, coming "THIS CLOSE" to creating tragedy as pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists were walking or driving cluelessly through life while wearing EarPods and having conversations, mindlessly or otherwise. Have we tried shopping lately? Don't start me on that. Service? I'm sorry, what's that again? Service no longer exists. It doesn't matter if we're spending 10 or 10 thousand dollars. What does exist is the attitude of "I'm on the phone. Don't interrupt me!" Or laziness. "It's over there. Behind the thing." Umm, excuse me? "The thing?" Oh, heck no! My first reaction is to want to say, "May I speak to a manager, please?" Then I realize that they are the Manager. The saddest, scariest part of this whole realization is it's not just a big city thing. It's everywhere we go/are. It's a world with too many people with little education, manners, consequences, or convictions. It's what failed the Roman Empire and what is failing us today. A world living in the moment while the moment we are all living in is almost up. And, if I'm wrong, we aren't facing impending doom? It sure feels like it. I'm not sure about you, but I will continue to do all I can to love, laugh, eat, and live my best life despite a world that keeps trying to convince me not to. We are all bigger and better than the devices we carry and the apps we subscribe to. It may be time to put them all down while we relearn to pick ourselves back up, open our ears and hearts, think before we speak, and like before we love, and most importantly, earn what we are entitled to.

Joey Santos is a Celebrity Chef, Life Stylist & Co-Host of The Two Guys From Hollywood Podcast on Spotify. A Columnist for The Eden Magazine since 2016. Joey was raised in NYC, Malibu, and West Hollywood. He is the son of Film & Television Actor Joe Santos, and his Grandfather is World-Renowned Latin Singer Daniel Santos. To follow Joey on IG: @jojoboy13 To contact Joey; whynotjoe@gmail.com

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The

Ancient Mediterranean by Lisa Fazio

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ne day, when I was standing looking out over the Tyrrhenian Sea on the west coast of Southern Italy, I watched the waves splash up along the edges of the hot, arid landscape and wondered how many of my own ancestors might have stood looking in this exact same place. My eyes now looking at the same place theirs once looked, my feet touching the same sands theirs might have, my body a vessel of DNA that evolved beneath the same Sun, my breath becoming one with the same air, and the gods of place whispering in my ear as they did to my ancient people. Although I have always lived in the diaspora and grew up in another place, my body remembers times far beyond my life in all directions, especially in Italy. Southern Italy is a land of volcanoes and hot, dry summers, yet there is something fresh and vibrant all around in the forests grown on volcanic ash and the fields fed by underground aqueducts and mountain washes. Before I had ever traveled to Italy, I asked my Nonno how so many delicious foods grew in such a dry place, and he said, “Oh, everything grew!” And it was

true; the figs, lemons, olive trees, and all the home gardens were all so lush. There are three active volcanoes in Southern Italy: Mount Vesuvius (Naples), Mount Etna (Sicily), and Mount Stromboli (off the coast of Calabria). Both Vesuvius and Etna are so active that they are under constant surveillance by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth’s Interior, or IAVCEI, a project of the United Nations that conducts research and promotes public awareness about the current status and hazards of the world’s volcanoes. There are multiple other dormant and extinct volcanoes formed where the Eurasian and African tectonic plates once collided thirty million years ago. The Italian peninsula is literally made from this collision and exists along the boundary of the two plates. The soils of Southern Italy have been fed for millennia by volcanic ash, making the land rich in minerals, layered with magma, and fed by underground springs that rise from deep caverns beneath the surface. Italy’s water comes from both these springs and rainfall, although in current times, Italy is facing water shortages, like most of the world, as climate change and failing water systems impact availability. 93 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

Photo by Katherine Hanlon

Southern Italy is itself an element of the greater landscape and ecology that is part of the entire Mediterranean basin. When we are exploring our folk traditions, it’s important to remember that the ecosystem, which includes the entire living field of interacting forces and beings, is an integral part of their formation and dynamism. All cultural systems are defined by seasonal cycles, weather patterns, geological formations, natural disasters, and, according to our ancestors, all interspecies inhabitants, including mythological/spiritual gods and otherworldly spirits. Human participation in nature includes our capacity to sensorially alchemize ecological information into dreams, myths, art, and rituals that are the raw materials of cultural traditions. In fact, human culture emerges directly from landscape and geography and, at the same time, becomes part of ecology. The area of the world that we now call Italy has only been considered a nation-state since 1861. When we look at the ancient history of the region, we see that it is geographically and culturally part of the much wider region of the Mediterranean basin and beyond. One of the dominant but unproven narratives about the Paleolithic and Neolithic peoples of the Earth is that they lived in separate, isolated bands. Yet, based on ethnographic evidence, we also know that cross-regional cultural traditions are astoundingly similar. Our ideas about social organization now do not necessarily correspond backward in time. Our ideas around political boundaries do not have supporting evidence from prehistory, nor do our ideas about the 94 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

way “primitive” people were able to trade and exchange goods and information. In the book The Dawn of Everything, authors David Graeber and David Wengrow contend that in earlier centuries, forms of regional organization might extend thousands of miles. Aboriginal Australians, for instance, could travel halfway across the continent, moving among people who spoke entirely different languages. “Society,” insofar as we can comprehend it at that time, spanned continents. In fact, the evidence suggests that the people of the Upper Paleolithic were quite cosmopolitan [as] “from the Swiss Alps to Outer Mongolia, they were often using remarkably similar tools, playing remarkably similar musical instruments, carving similar female figurines, wearing similar ornaments and conducting similar funeral rites. Our general concept of society becoming global and more homogenous is true in a sense, yet our borders and boundaries have become more rigid with passports, checkpoints, and immigration bans. If we survey what happens over time, the scale on which social relations operate doesn’t get bigger and bigger; it actually gets smaller and smaller Overall, though, what we observe is not so much the world as a whole is getting smaller, but most peoples’ social worlds are growing more parochial, and their lives and passions are more likely to be circumscribed by boundaries of culture, class, and language.

The archaeological evidence for this is solid. Artifacts of “primitive trade” have shown us that various types of “currency” such as stones, gems, and other valuable objects traveled great distances: “3000 years ago Baltic amber found its way to the Mediterranean, or shells from the Gulf of Mexico were transported to Ohio.” Diversity Hot Spot The Mediterranean Basin includes portions of Europe, Africa, and Asia. It begins in the west with Cabo Verde and spreads to the east as far as Jordan and Turkey. It includes Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, and the Balkan states, as well as the entire coast of North Africa and Southern Europe as far north as the Azores. The Mediterranean Basin is characterized by hot, dry summers but bountiful winter rains. During the Last Glacial Maximum or LGM, when the glacier was at its greatest extent, Italy was beneath the alpine ice cap, which disconnected it from the rest of Europe and protected it and the entire Mediterranean from the negative impacts of the last Ice Age, allowing the region’s abundant diversity to continue to flourish. It is the second-largest hotspot for biodiversity in the world and the third-largest hotspot for plant diversity. There are an estimated twenty-five thousand plant species in the Mediterranean, many of which are endemic, meaning they do not exist anywhere else on Earth. The Mediterranean Sea is rich with marine creatures, including three hundred mammal species, and the forests host more diverse tree species than any other forests in Europe. The Ancient Peoples The oldest human remains found in Italy date back one million years and were the ancestors of modern humans. The ancient hominins of Italy include Homo erectus, Homo heidelbergensis (Ceprano), and Homo neanderthalensis (Neanderthal). According to archaeological

evidence, modern humans inhabited the Italian peninsula forty-five thousand years ago, during the Upper Paleolithic period.8 Italy’s position in the center of the Mediterranean basin made it accessible from many directions for trade, cultural exchange, and migration. Immigration and trade routes intersected Italy from the Balkans, the Black Sea regions, Africa, and the Near East. During the Neolithic and for thousands of years later, the Mediterranean Sea itself contributed to shortening the distances and making Italy one of the gateways to the European continent: first acting for millennia as a barrier separating the African and the European continents, and then turned into a bridge as the first Bronze Age seafarers started to travel in open water (Brood bank 2006) Many groups and civilizations are known to have inhabited the Italic Peninsula, which has a diverse genetic and cultural history. Countless people have either migrated to or colonized Italy since the Neolithic period, including Near Eastern farmers and Italic tribes, descended from the Indo-Europeans, Ligurians, Etruscans, Phoenicians, Greeks, Celts, Goths, Lombards, Byzantines, Franks, Normans, Swabians, Arabs, Berbers, Albanians, Austrians, and more. In fact, the Phoenicians colonized Southern Italy and Greece somewhere between the twelfth and eighth centuries BCE,10 before either region became prominent empires, and they have been referred to as the “first rulers of the Mediterranean.”There is also much evidence of prehistoric humans in Italy. The infamous goddess figurine known as the Venus of Willendorf is a thirty- thousandyear-old artifact whose origin has been traced to Italy, indicating that ancient peoples had lived there. Evidence of the Uluzzian culture, including human bones, shell beads, and natural mineral pigments, 95 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM eJANUARY 2025

was discovered in the Grotta del Cavallo (Cave of the Horse) around the region of what is now Apulia. This group of cave dwellers inhabited the area during the transition from the Middle to Upper Paleolithic periods. Uluzzian caves have also been identified in other areas of Italy, including Campania, Basilicata, and Calabria, as wellas in Greece. The Villbruna hunters and gatherers left evidence of their existence fourteen thousand years ago in the Veneto region. Burial objects such as painted stones, a chunk of ochre, propolis, and a flint knife were discovered. The grave was marked with burial drawings made with ochre. Early farmers were thought to have migrated to Italy from the Near East in about 8000 BCE, replacing or displacing the hunter-gatherers. The archaeological evidence uncovered from this early agricultural period was the foundation of the work of archaeologist Marija Gimbutas. Southern Italy was part of the region that Gimbutas designated Old Europe. According to Gimbutas, Old Europe existed during the late Neolithic period (7000–3500 BCE) and included the Adriatic, Aegean, Central Baltic, Middle Danube Basin, East Balkan, and Moldavian-West Ukrainian areas.

Lisa Fazio is a clinical herbalist, plant spirit medicine practitioner, flower essence practitioner, and the founder of The Root Circle, a plant medicine educational center. Trained in traditional Western herbalism, Western astrology, and the folkways of her Italian immigrant family, she has apprenticed with herbalists Kate Gilday, Matthew Wood, and Pam Montgomery. She has an academic background in psychology and ethnobotany and has also done master’s level studies in chemistry, botany, and environmental history. She lives in Newport, New York. https://therootcircle.com

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What we now know as Southern Italy was a part of the Adriatic region of Old Europe. These were pre-Indo-European indigenous civilizations that had a complex social organization, artistic and healing traditions, and an intricate economic system based on food production. The people of these times had written language that was primarily expressed in symbolic script and many other technologies and tools, including metallurgy and the domestication of plants and animals. It is most important to note here that, according to Gimbutas’s findings, these societies were peaceful

and matricentric, and no cultural expressions of war or warlike symbolism have been found in any of the archaeological artifacts. These societies also held prolific cosmological beliefs that were intertwined with the art, ritual, and social expressions of daily and seasonal existence. Plants were a central focus of life as both food and medicine. Archaeological symbols have been discovered that reference the vegetal life cycle, the seasonal cycles, and the cycle of life, death, and regeneration. Indigenous cultures have always been plant-based, which means that plants were not only valued as a food source and means of survival but were also an integral component of the social ecology or the social field. People had emotional and spiritual relationships with plants that involved more than just a physical-needs exchange. Plants were often deified with the personas of gods and goddesses as well as animistic nature spirits and allies. Plant medicines were not only used to treat acute illnesses but were also invoked in ritual preparations such as smoke and used in performative art, as objects of divination, and as entheogenic substances to induce prophetic and healing trances. Healing and the use of plants in healing in the ancient Mediterranean were intricately woven into the human relationship with divine energies, as the sacred and the profane were in a constant dance within the earthly lives of the people. Around 3200 BCE, the Indo-Europeans arrived from the Caucasus Mountains and Pontic Steppe. The archaeological evidence from this invasion shows a regional transition from a peaceable matricentric culture to a more warrior-like patriarchal culture from which the tribal groups of the Bronze Age and forward emerged.

97 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

98 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2025

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