Kaleidoscope august 2014 edition by Meetu Sehgal

KALEIDOSCOPE My Story

Truth and Fiction Journey of Healing Effect of Rahu and Ketu on You This Year

August 2014

Story of Courage – Healing the Scars of Life Feng Shui For Rainy Season Tarot Predictions for you this Month

“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” ~ Maya Angelou, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings “I wanted a perfect ending. Now I've learned, the hard way, that some poems don't rhyme, and some stories don't have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next. Delicious Ambiguity.” ~ Gilda Radner “It's like everyone tells a story about themselves inside their own head. Always. All the time. That story makes you what you are. We build ourselves out of that story.” ~ Patrick Rothfuss, The Name of the Wind

Table of Contents From the Editor's Desk ........................................................................................... 4 Truth and Fiction .................................................................................................... 6 Beyond Meaning .................................................................................................... 8 Journey Of Healing ............................................................................................... 10 My Journey to a Healthier Life .............................................................................. 13 My Guide To Salvation ......................................................................................... 17 Story of Courage and Healing ............................................................................... 19 Dear Life .............................................................................................................. 23 My Grandpa ......................................................................................................... 26 From 'Dil waalo ki Dilli' To City of Nizams ............................................................. 28 Why Not Wellness? .............................................................................................. 29 The Bond Of Brother -‐ Sister ................................................................................. 31 What do Rahu and Ketu have in Store for You this Year? ...................................... 33 Tarot Predictions August 2014 .............................................................................. 36 Fengshui for the Rainy Season .............................................................................. 44 Astrological Queries from the Readers ................................................................. 46 Fengshui Queries from the Readers ...................................................................... 48 Book Review -‐ The Dream Catcher ....................................................................... 50 Crystal of the Month -‐ Smoky Quartz ................................................................... 53 Thought for the Month ........................................................................................ 55 Beautiful Prayer -‐ Krishna Mantra ........................................................................ 57

From the Editor's Desk Dear Reader, The theme of this edition of Kaleidoscope is “My Story”. It is dedicated to the heroes of our life i.e. Us. There is no better witness to the ups and downs of our lives than we ourselves. We have known ourselves most intimately, the struggles, the fall and the rise again. Whether someone appreciates our journey or not, what is most important is that we acknowledge our own journeys, take pride in it, learn from it and become our own heroes. This month’s theme “My Story” is a reminder that we are our own saviours, guides and gurus. We are the ones who bring salvation to ourselves. External saviours and guides are simply a reflection of that which we seek within. The purpose of external gurus is to lead us to the guru within. This is life all about – to find the guru within us. Often, we become too harsh with ourselves, criticizing our every word, thought and action. When you receive that much criticism from outside, how crippling it can feel. Imagine doing that to yourself all day! “My Story” is a reminder that you have been doing the best you could under the given circumstances. “My Story” is an opportunity to look back and see the journey you have done, sometimes in spite of the criticism you received from others and yourself, and recognize the hero within you. As you begin to recognize the hero within, you become an inspiration for others to find their own heroes, to take that plunge and journey within to find their own gurus. If you are looking for inspiration and your saviour, be inspired by others’ stories and journeys. You may take their path to begin with until you find your own path. Always remember, the external world and its stories are a guide map to go within. The ultimate journey is within you. Don’t stay stuck on the map that you miss out on the real journey. You can send your feedback and suggestions to meetu.sehgal@ezinekaleidoscope.com. You can also connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.

Wishing you all the best for your journey With Grace and Light -‐Meetu Sehgal Meetu Sehgal, a Tarot Consultant and Holistic Healer, is an MBA from Delhi University. With more than 8 years of experience in Tarot Reading, she is known as a “Tarot Healer” for her in-‐depth tarot counseling sessions which are insightful as well as empowering. You can reach her at meetu.sehgal@gmail.com or www.divineinnovations.org She also teaches Osho Zen Tarot, Reiki and other holistic sciences.

Truth and Fiction

Q: Is the earth hollow? Is there an advanced civilization living there? Is there a sun at the center? Do these beings make periodic journeys through tunnels to specific places and tell the secrets? Is that where UFO’s come from? The mind lives out of fictions. The mind is nourished by fictions – ordinary or occult. The mind always hankers for beautiful stories. The mind lives through lies. The mind is afraid of the truth but is a great lover of lies. To satisfy the mind, down through the ages, thousands of lies have been invented. When one lie becomes too old, rotten, it is dropped and a new lie is invented. Your so-‐called scriptures are full of such lies. Man is very inventive. But all inventions of this kind prevent you from seeing the truth, and your energy becomes engaged in a futile dimension. You ask me, “Is the earth hollow?” Even if it is it does not matter. Why be worried about it? Why waste your time for it? There are far more significant things waiting to be done. Put your priorities right. The better question, the far more significant question, would be: Is man hollow? And yes, man is hollow. You ask, “Is there an advanced civilization living there?” Yes, I say there is an advanced being living inside you. You are hollow, and in the innermost core of your being, God is living. The highest is living in you; why bother about the earth? Even if people are living they can’t be much different from the people who are living on the surface. Are you not yet fed-‐up with these people? Maybe they have three eyes and four ears and six hands, but what difference does it make? You ask, “Is there a sun at the center?” The sun is at your very center. That’s what I am calling Buddha – the light. You ask me, “Do these… make periodic journeys through tunnels to specific places and tell the secrets?” Yes. Many times from your innermost core messages come to your superficial-‐ most consciousness. Many times secrets are revealed to you from the center to the circumference. But rather than searching for these, you become interested in whether the earth is hollow? Whether there is a sun inside? Whether it is

populated? Is there an advanced civilization? And these fictions go on keeping people engaged. There are thousands of books written about such subjects. And controversies go on raging down the centuries, and people go on fighting, arguing, philosophizing, speculating, proving. And all is futile! Beware of the mind’s tendency to invent lies, to support lies. That is mind’s way of protecting itself against truth. Truth has not to be invented. You cannot invent truth, you can only make yourself available to it. Truth is already there, truth is already the case. If you are silent, if you have dropped your fictions, if you have dropped all lies, if you are naked, in that nudity and in that silence truth is revealed. And truth liberates. Get out of all these stories! And I am not saying that they are true or not true: I’m not saying anything about them. I’m not for or against. I’m simply saying they are irrelevant. It does not matter. It is childish to be interested in such things. It is good for children – they need fiction and they need fairy tales – but it is not good for grown-‐up people. The most important thing for an intelligent person is to know who he is. Everything depends on that. Without knowing it, all knowledge is gibberish. Without knowing it, you have lived but you lived in vain. Without knowing it, you miss the whole opportunity of life. Life is an opportunity to know yourself, it is a challenge to know yourself, it provokes you to know yourself. But we create some other curiosities, and we become so engaged with those curiosities that we forget the real question. And there are thousands of questions which are not real, and you can be lost in that crowd. And the real question is a single question, one question: Who am I? Drop all other questions! Put your total energy into one question: Who am I? Let this question sink to the very innermost core of your being – in the hollow of your body, to the supreme consciousness within you, to the sun within you. Devote as much time as possible to this one single question. The whole of religion depends on it. Religion is nothing but the answer to this single question: Who am I? It is not concerned with God. It is not concerned with heaven and hell, it is not concerned with past lives and future lives, it is not concerned with reincarnation and the theory of karma. Real religion has only a single purpose, a single target: Who am I? And don’t dissipate your energy in such curiosities. Even if people are there, even if you come to know that people are there and UFO’S come from the hollow of the earth, it won’t change you. It won’t help you in any way. Go into the mystery that you are, penetrate that mystery. Let that become your only work in life. Knowing it, all is known. Being it, you have arrived. Osho, The Wisdom of the Sands, Vol. 2, Ch 8, Q 2

Beyond Meaning

Every reverberation, whether of great consequence or otherwise, has an existential root, but meanings have no existential root. Meanings only mean something within the framework of your mind. Only when you live in human society are meanings important because human beings have lost traction with Creation. The only place where meanings have some relevance is in the ridiculous creation of their own, which is their psychological space. It is a new world that people have created for themselves. You see the world clashing because everybody is living in their own world. This is a psychological structure. It is an illusion that you create for yourself. Within this illusion you can create all kinds of meanings. The terminology employed when someone comes to his senses is, “He was disillusioned.” Disillusioned is not a positive term in the social context. But if you are looking for a spiritual context, the sooner you are disillusioned, the better it is. If all your illusions fall apart today, isn’t it wonderful? Or do you want to take your illusions to your deathbed? Of course, death will destroy all the illusions. When we utter a mantra, we are not looking at the meaning. But most human beings have made themselves incapable of getting involved with something that doesn’t mean anything to them. Why do you think some of the most glorious things that are happening on the planet are ignored by most people? A sunrise, sunset, full moon. How many people on this planet are even conscious of it? How many people will sit through the spring watching the flowers blossom? Instead they are arguing about whose words are more meaningful! They have no attention for all the meaningless, phenomenal things that are happening in the universe because they are looking for meaningful things. Sound is the substance of Creation. Meanings are made up in human minds. Sounds are of various kinds. There are sounds that are very refined, and there are some that are gross depending upon the nature of its reverberation. Everything is a certain kind of sound – the tree, air, body, rock. There could be the same rock as the Dhyanalinga, but it would have a completely different kind of reverberation. The same sound can be taken and refined to a certain level. Today, science is entering this space, but in the yogic systems this is something that we have always worked with. Modern science is now saying both sound and light are reverberations. If you multiply sound to a certain decibel, you would arrive at a place where mathematically it has become light. In theory, sound can become light. Once something is theoretically possible, practicality is only a

question of capability. But this is something that we have always done within ourselves. If you take a sound and incubate it within you, you can incubate the sound with a refined reverberation of your consciousness and turn it into light. The body is one kind of reverberation, thought is another kind of reverberation, emotion is another kind of reverberation, consciousness is a completely different kind of reverberation. What we refer to as consciousness is the most refined reverberation. What is beyond is, “Shiva” or “that which is not” because its reverberation is such that you cannot even know it is there. It is utter stillness, but there is a reverberation in that also. If you take a sound into you and incubate it in your consciousness, this sound can slowly be transformed into light. Reverberations do different things to different individuals, but if you transform a reverberation from one dimension to another by incubating it within yourself consciously, one can know light from within, and nobody around will miss it either. Love & Grace, Sadhguru

The Upanishads are part of Vedanta or the last part of the Vedas, the oldest scriptures of Hinduism created between 1500–1000 BCE. The Upanishads contain revealed truth (Sruti) about Brahman (God), the Ultimate Reality and the way of salvation (Moksha). Term Upanishad derives from upa-‐ ('nearby'), ni-‐ ('at the proper place, down') and sad ('to sit') and it means 'sitting near a teacher to receive the sacred teachings'. Vedanta (anta 'the end' or 'last portion') is the essence and culmination of all the knowledge within the Vedas. Vedas (vid -‐ 'to know', 'knowledge' of the eternal truth). Of the 108 Upanishads that have been preserved 12 are considered the principle Upanishads. The Upanishads most of all are the record of what the sages and seers perceived in thought and visions and are not an organized systems of philosophy. They have elucidated the most important questions of human existence: The origin of the universe, Purpose of life, Brahman (God) nature, Karma, Rebirth, Maya, Afterlife and Immortality

Journey Of Healing

I was devastated and shocked when I received the news of being diagnosed with abnormal cells and a chronic hormonal condition that needed immediate surgery and medication. While I had a PhD in cancer research from Oxford University, I never expected a similar fate to have transpired in my body. As the news sunk in, I had a gut inner knowing that surgery was not for me, and there was another way. I just did not know what the other way was. A year later my mother gifted me a book titled The Journey written by Brandon Bays. It spoke of the process of cellular healing, and how one could heal oneself. Ironically, the disease had made me vulnerable, and I refused to accept any outside help exactly at the point when I needed it most. Within that period, my father passed away, and I became very devastated emotionally, and finally had the courage, desire as well as humility to read the book that my mother had gifted me. Healing from within As I read the book and started to explore the field of alternative therapy, I began to understand how repressed emotions, limiting thoughts and unresolved past events may have led to the abnormal cells and the shutdown of my reproductive system. This understanding motivated me to use all the process work that I was learning on myself. The abnormal cells literally flowed out of my body, and my reproductive system reset to its proper functioning self. The doctors and nurses were astounded, and I was now living proof of healing with alternative methods without the need for drugs or surgery. At the same time as being diagnosed with abnormal cells, I was also suffering from chronic daily migraines and debilitating pain in my shoulders and back. I was on shock therapy and a cocktail of medications to narcotise the pain. It was at this time that I discovered Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) and used them to clear the migraines and get rid of pain completely. Although EFT is widely acclaimed with thousands of testimonials and accolades, most people are not aware of the more advanced forms of EFT, which can allow for instantaneous healing. Matrix Reimprinting with EFT, is an example of a powerful advancement of EFT. I used Matrix Reimprinting to clear shock from

past traumas, overcome hay fever allergy, have a better relationship with my family and increase financial wealth. As I continued to explore and apply these potent techniques during the next seven years, I was still working full time in corporate business. However, I used to spend every holiday learning new and different alternative healing modalities and coaching systems from the best masters around the world. While I knew I wanted something more in life, I still continued to work in corporate business, holding on to the security and comfort of employment, and my executive lifestyle. However, I met with an accident in December 2008 that broke my coccyx, sacrum and pelvis, and confined me to bed for nine months. It was a time of gestation, reflection and application of all the healing modalities. At the end of this period, I emerged pain-‐free and able to walk again, and I literally walked out of my corporate career, leaving behind my sports car, business class lifestyle, and attachment to material rewards. The healing journey I had embarked on also stripped away my need for external approval, and rewards. As I left my old lifestyle, I surrendered everything, not knowing how I was going to pay the mortgage, my bills and have food on the table. Initially, I was lost. I felt like a buoy, bobbing up and down, floating on the ocean. No path and yet at peace. Reaching out Inspired by my inner guidance, I started a free meditation group in London, UK, and people started to come one by one. Organically, I was asked to facilitate paid sessions and gradually, my private practice began to grow. Owing to the success rate and positive results coupled with training in over 200 healing modalities, I was asked and divinely guided to facilitate training sessions to teach others about healing the body, mind and spirit from my direct experience. Eventually, I was guided to form ‘Vitality Living College’ and I now travel around the world delivering seminars to people from all backgrounds, races and cultures to enable personal, professional and spiritual development. I am also a work in progress, and continue to work on myself with the sole aim of spiritual enlightenment. Recently, I was diagnosed with an under active thyroid and had been prescribed thyroxin. I decided to take the medication, and also work on myself at the same time. From the beginning, I did not buy into the story that once you start with Thyroxin, you have to stay on it for life. I created a self-‐healing programme that combined Matrix Reimprinting, NLP and Journey-‐work along with yoga, meditation and healthy nutrition, and a year later my blood test showed normal functioning thyroid.

What created the biggest shift was the inner work, particularly on being able to speak my truth, no matter how I might be judged on the outside. I have had a fear of speaking up, particularly in the media and press, as I have been scared about how my extended family may judge or perceive me. My personal healing story is a private one as I have experienced physical as well as very violent sexual abuse that left me bruised and beaten. While the sexual abuse was physically traumatic, it was also emotionally very scarring as it was my first sexual experience and shattered the fairytale notion that one day I would meet my Prince, fall in love and live happily ever after. I felt dirty, damaged and developed a self-‐hatred that closed the door to happiness. With time all that has healed, and I am learning to speak the truth and connect heart to heart so that my personal story may also touch the lives of others, and give them strength, courage and inspiration to heal. Today I deliver seminars on stress relief, creating the life one wants and self-‐ realization based on my own direct experience. It is a fulfilling life filled with purpose, passion and oodles of inner work and self-‐healing. The journey that I have embarked on, has transformed my life literally and metaphorically, and I am just humbled and glad in the knowledge that such transformation is available to everyone if they choose, and I feel gratefully privileged to be one such facilitator. For more information download 6 free breakthrough books. http://vitalitylivingcollege.info/free-‐ resources/ -‐Dr Rangana Rupavi Choudhuri (PhD) Dr Rangana Rupavi Choudhuri (PhD) is a scientist by background with a Doctorate in Cancer Research from Oxford University. She has been in business over 15 years and now is founder of Vitality Living College creating practitioners, trainers and coaches in EFT, NLP (Neurolinguistic programming), Hypnosis, Timeline therapy as well as presenting Journey work on behalf of Brandon Bays. (www.vitality-‐ living.com) Awakening to the Journey of Healing. Free seminar with the introduction to The Journey cellular healing by Dr. Rangana Rupavi Choudhari http://vitalitylivingcollege.info/journey/

My Journey to a Healthier Life

With the blessings of my parents and un-‐known or widely-‐known masters-‐ Life has opened up all gates of further happiness and wisdom for me. In my early 20's, I progressed continuously to study different pathies and ways of nutrition with great ease. In 2003 itself I had two centers where people came from several places and were being healed of what was called ‘irreversible’ conditions. I was seeing miracles all around me, every moment even with myself. My life and my experiences grew meeting hundreds or thousands of people every month.

Just within few years I realized that the conditions were definitely being healed, but people would return with some other ailments in few years. There was something much more deeper to Life than was apparent. It was when me and my young son became very sick I started praying again with all my heart-‐ not just for a cure this time, but for the cause and a way to real well-‐being. Being chemically sensitive, my condition at that time did not allow me to have any medication (conventional or alternative), to help me relieve me of some symptoms, as I used to get much more sick after that. None of my previous knowledge of nutrition was also being helpful. Although I could still function well with the help energy healing, Sujok acupressure, other natural therapies and use of certain lifestyle changes. At this stage we step by step went organic, vegan, gluten free, with the guidance of holistic nutritionists, doctors and wise experienced families . Me and son showed wonderful recovery. I realized that only on the days we would have lots of fresh fruits, vegetables and greens, we could live happier. One day also came when my body stopped accepting cooked foods. The answer to my prayers came that day through re-‐ looking the way we had food and lived in accordance with nature through an outstanding book called ‘The 80 10 10 Diet Book by Dr. Douglas Graham, as a gift from a loved one. I just took it up and never looked back. Finally I had found my answer and all the rest are coming up themselves with time. I started living with food choices which possibly ancient Indian Saints would have made while living in nature. I got healed of all my symptoms just within 2 ½ days, and progress in my well-‐being daily as I maintain my food and lifestyle choices. It has been an honor to experience this natural change and purity within myself. Slowly and steadily life has been unfolding for me a very wise approach of living with nature, even while being in the city, living a socially active life. Since then it has been beautiful to live a craving free life.

Just within few days of this balanced, fresh raw vegan diet and wonderful lifestyle, my body started accepting cooked foods, but the path of this new life-‐ style was so rewarding on all levels that I consciously chose to progress on it. Not only me and our son, but several common men, women, elderly, children, farmers, disabled and mal-‐nourished living across India in big cities, small towns and villages have greatly benefited by choosing to make changes in their lives along this path. After becoming well just within a few days, I started doing an in-‐depth research on raw vegan diets and lifestyles lead by people in India and around the world. These were very helpful in transitioning my son from a fast foodie to now eating fruits and vegetables in abundance. We here helped and guided by several experienced ones, their own examples, research and books from around the world. Mrs Karen Ranzi, international award winning author of ‘Creating Healthy Children’ greatly helped us with our son Manikya's lifestyle and with several other kids including many under-‐privileged one's. During this time we created several recipes with fresh raw vegan ingredients, to transit our son. Our fresh raw vegan inventions like Tikki, Dahi Veda, Kadi-‐rice, Chole, Malai-‐kofta, Dal makhni, Biryani, Pulao, Sambhar, Ladoos, Peda, Kulfi and others are enjoyed by several families around the world. I enjoy great health and stamina now. My recovery time to any setback has reduced from years to months to days to now just few hours. I live pain free or do not get bothered by detox pains or fevers. I am now achieving better fitness and well-‐being. I feel the deep-‐seated peace and bliss within me often continually. I am continuing to become happier and healthier every moment. Abundance and success are effortlessly unfolding in every sphere of life. Here are a few conditions of past who's symptoms have improved or healed on this Conscious Natural Food, Lifestyle and Education Choices: -‐ Severe low blood pressure and low sugar becoming very high sometimes. -‐ Greatly aching varicose veins -‐ Sciatica -‐ Auto immune diseases (I do not retain any Dr's prescription for this) -‐ Left tennis elbow -‐ PMS and unbearable pains -‐ Regular spontaneous abortions -‐ Weakness and fatigue -‐ Negative and excessive thoughts

-‐ Inability to digest cooked food -‐ Body and mouth Odor -‐ Severe gas, bloating, acidity -‐ Excessive weight -‐ High Cholesterol -‐ Confusion -‐ Bleeding sensitive gums and deeply yellowed teeth -‐ Regular cough, cold and infections -‐ Un-‐diagnosed Regular low grade fevers for months -‐ Lower levels of Vitamin B12, D3 and Hemoglobin -‐ No or regularly missing eyelashes amongst others. Through our continued conscious natural choices in food, lifestyle and education, our young son Manikya also became free from: -‐ Severe immunity issues leading to very strong anti-‐biotics and steroid based medicines three times a month. -‐ Digestive and intestinal issues since birth -‐ Mood swings -‐ Lack of energy and interest in daily activities -‐ Addictions to junk and cooked foods -‐ Requirement of particular toys and Tv programmes in excess -‐ Several food sensitivities amongst others.. All of my previous and new love of learning, helped us transit into new habits and heal not just at a physical level but as a whole person. With the effortless positive thinking that followed we developed and manifested beautiful, in-‐ expensive, priceless values for our house-‐hold like procuring only wild, natural or organic produce; use of chemical free, completely natural homecare products including hand wash, mosquito repellents, shampoos and more; follow rhythms of nature successfully; love for all beings including all creatures and insects. We also learnt to love everyone irrespective or their food, lifestyle or education choices. We also understood that rather than thinking about changing your whole life-‐ style together, we can also start by being willing to change just one habit at a time. It is well known that it merely takes 3 weeks for a habit to become fully yours. Thus we have an ample choice to choose which habits we wish to choose first whether they are related to food, lifestyle or education. It is definitely wise

to educate yourself about your new chosen path, to easily transit through any detox it has to offer, and continue the habit for long term. We have observed how small lifestyle changes have a big impact on our whole life, thus we are very inspired to make them. I am presently living in INDIA with my husband and son, and truly believe that 'Prevention is better than cure.' We love life, every single moment of it.. We are peacefully smiling.. forever.. -‐Anjali Sanghi Anjali is a beautiful soul, a strong spirit, a dedicated mother and wife. She is also an International Speaker on ‘Conscious Natural Foods, Living and Education’ for Kids & Families. During her programs she combines her scientific education with ancient natural wisdom to support families-‐ to help transit into greater natural living effortlessly & abundantly. She is loved over the world, since over a decade for sharing her experiences with mothers, kids and families. She is also a renowned Artist-‐ Painter. Anjali Sanghi is also highly educated with several national and international certifications, degree and diplomas in various fields. She has chosen a 100% fresh raw vegan lifestyle since September 2012. She is presently writing her book ‘Nourishing the Whole Child’ along with several story books for children. You can know more about her through www.manikyasnest.com

“We can’t talk about our own health without understanding our place in our environment, because in order to fulfill our potential we have to live in the context of our surroundings. We have to know our place in the ecosystem of which we are a part, and this means living 'consciously': being aware of nature and how it affects us and how we, in turn, affect nature.” ~ Sebastian Pole, Discovering the True You with Ayurveda: How to Nourish, Rejuvenate, and Transform Your Life

My Guide To Salvation

It could be said that a person is comes alone into this life when she is born and has to leave alone from this life when she dies. There are no strings attached when a baby is born. However, all through life we keep knotting ourselves with so many strings – of relationships, of wealth, of power, of greed, of emotions, of un-‐ ending desire to be the best ..and the list continues, that when the time to leave dawns upon us, we feel so helpless. The whole purpose achieving salvation through this human body gets wasted by getting tied up in these strings. We completely forget ourselves while dilly dallying all through our life. There are a fortunate few who get the right “Path Pradarshak” (guide) in their lives who shepherds them into the right path always when they stray. I am grateful to god for being born as a human. I have been grateful and humble of being able have the blessings of such a great “path pradarshak” so early on in my life. This came to happen by sheer chance. All credit goes to my dearest aunt, whose pure and selfless dedication to this man literally drew me to him. I was pulled towards him like an iron pin gets pulled towards a magnet. It was in 1995, my father had met with a tragic accident, lying paralysed from neck down, with vision left only in one eye. He was in hospital for 6 months. While my father was recuperating, my aunt made her sincere and dedicated attempts at getting this great man to listen to her. From the moment, he spoke the words “you brother will be fine”, things started to change for better and my father’s recovery speeded up. I feel that was the turning point in my life. As I had mentioned earlier, he drew me towards him. Post completion of my college, I moved to New Delhi in the beginning of the new millennium for further studies and got this chance to meet him in person time and again. The first meeting found me dumbstruck. I just could not say anything. He kept looking at me, with those kind eyes and the sweet smile playing on his face. I kept standing, rooted to the spot, tears of joy flowing through my eyes. I simple could not move. I was mesmerised by the power and the grace. My aunt introduced me and he blessed me. That was enough for me to get hooked on. In the years that followed, I have had the opportunity of meeting him quiet often in the New Delhi – Chattarpur Shirdi Sai mandir and the Noida Shirdi Sai Mandir.. Every time I met him, my confidence levels soared. I started to feel like a different person with more positive energy. The whole energy transformation happened gradually and I kept evolving as a person.

The good times don’t last long. I had to move cities in the year 2006 and was deprived of my regular meetings with my Guruji. I felt as if he was testing my bhakti and my patience. I felt as if he was just denying me his presence for so long. At first I started blaming him for all this and then I realised it is only for my own good. He has made this happen to allow me to develop myself spiritually and become more self aware. The result was that after 8 long years, I met him at a family function recently and there he was in all white, smiling again at me. He immediately recognised me and said “we are meeting after a very long time”. I was dumbfounded but somehow managed to ask him to come to Bangalore sometime. He replied in the affirmative and blessed me. He was ever so gentle and kind. Humble to the core. I feel so elated about having the good fortune of having found a guide, a man who has known all, to help me tide over the various strings that might get attached to me. I feel blessed to have my respected Guru, always with me to help me stay detached in this material world. -‐Susmita Shroff Susmita Shroff is MBA (Finance). She is a homemaker and freelance mentor. She writes for pleasure and is a voracious reader. Hindu Mythology has three main Gods: Brahma, the Creator, Vishnu, the Preserver and Mahesha (Shiva),the destroyer. The Saptarishis mean Sapta=Seven Rishi(s)=Sage(s) or the Seven Rishis in Sanskrit, an Indian language from which most of Indian languages have evolved. These Seven Rishis are the great seers, caretakers, mind born sons of Brahma.In a similar way, Greeks too had seven wise men namely Cleobulos, Periandros, Bias, Pittacos, Chilon, Solon and Thales which shows that mythologies around the globe do have parallel connections though it will take another hundred years for researchers to prove it.They live for a period of time known as a manvantar (306,720,000 Earth Years).

Story of Courage and Healing

This is the story of Deesha Sanghvi in her own words. Deesha is a 29 yrs old resident of Ahmedabad, extremely charming and cheerful. She is a living example of courage in the face of adversity and has shown one and all how time and faith heals everything. "I was 13 yrs. old and was travelling to a spiritual place for darshan with my family -‐ Dad, Mom, Grandmother & a 7 yr. old brother. The day was 7th April 1997. We suddenly met with a massive accident with a Rajasthan Government bus. This accident ruined my family there and then. I lost my Dad, younger brother & grand mom in the accident. It was just Mom & me who survived. I was declared dead. By God’s grace I was brought back to life but had multiple fractures on both hands and legs, C2, C3 along with a crushed elbow and a torn forehead. I was in Bhatia hospital and for some time the doctors wanted to amputate my leg because of a lot of infection. Luckily, some drugs kicked in & started reacting on my body and the doctors kept the idea of amputating my leg on a hold. All this while my mom was in a hospital in Ahmedabad and I was in Mumbai with other relatives. Neither mom nor I were informed about the 3 deaths in the family. I was taken to Pune to Sancheti for further treatment but my health was not improving. I had my house in Ahmedabad so in 1998 we planned to find some doctor in Ahmedabad and continue my treatment there. We came here and my treatment started. Even after having undergone more than 100 surgeries and after a lot of struggle on personal grounds as well, I still walk with a stick. All these years, I have seen all my friends living at their best. Playing, Dancing garba, going to trips, falling in love and what not while I was confined to my bed. I never wanted to slip into depression and always kept myself pepped up saying things shall be all right soon. If I say I never gave up in life, it would be wrong. Like every person thinks that dying would be the end and a solution to all the problems, I overdosed myself

once with sleeping pills. Practically, nothing happened except that I slept for a long time feeling all dehydrated. I understood it was my fight and I had no escape. With tears or a smile I had to live. I decided to smile and live. I started teaching calligraphy to people who were older than me. I started taking summer camps and also tuitions. Kids kept me happy. I started a small business of chocolates as well. People really appreciated all my work. That gave life a lot of confidence. I got the confidence to go out meet people. In spite of walking with a walker, I joined a Call-‐Centre. Worked there and completed my graduation. I did my graduation in corporate communications and advertising and post that, I started working in an HR consulting firm. My boss was too thankless and thought we were slaves. I anyways had a surgery lined up so left the job. While in the hospital post-‐surgery, I thought why not work for myself I might earn less but at least I shall feel more happy and content. I started my own HR consulting firm and the journey has simply been awesome. I never knew who will marry a girl who walks with a stick. Luckily I have found the love of my life and just got married 3 months ago. I finally have found my soul mate, who is perfectly normal. I always thought I might find someone physically challenged but by God’s grace Karan accepted me with open arms. Never knew that I could have found someone so sweet. Life has changed and I feel blessed. My message to who so ever reads my story is please never give up in life nothing comes to you before it is destined. Time shows it all. I always wanted to marry like a princess. All girls possess this dream. My dream came true when I was selected as one of the luckiest bride for a TV show called Band Baja Bride. Sabyasachi Mukherji designed your clothes. You are treated with almost everyone who you can dream of. So here I feel the belief I had in my dream helped me achieve everything I wanted." -‐Deesha Sanghvi Deesha is an HR consultant and a living example of courage in the face of adversity.

Dr. Pallavi Mishra has been a lecturer in Physics before taking charge of Amrapali Media Vision as CEO.She has been regularly writing poems,articles for various print & electronic media.She has also written lyrics for films." About this poem in her own words:-‐ "The trauma of brain haemorrhage which I suffered few years back completely changed my attitude towards life & this poem is the outcome of that transition in my thoughts." I

-‐Susmita Shroff Susmita Shroff is MBA (Finance). She is a homemaker and freelance mentor. She writes for pleasure and is a voracious reader

Dear Life

Dear Life, You are a warrior in this battle called LIFE. You win some; you lose some – that doesn’t mean you are a bad warrior. It means victory is not important, what is important is to LIVE. Not many moons ago began a descend, a descend into a place called nowhere. However much I would like to name that place, there is nothing that comes to my mind that suits this place befittingly. The journey started 2.5 years ago exactly. Though I still don’t remember the exact moment when it started till before 6 months when I saw the huge snowball it had turned into, threatening me of a catastrophic avalanche in my otherwise normal life. It began with a very minor skin eruption, the first signal which was obviously very easily ignored by the dermatologist as an allergic reaction to some chemical in a cream I used. It went on to small and frequent bouts of fever which again were blamed on my poor immunity to the changing seasons. Then came the major setback in the form of panic attacks, the ones that render you cold completely and senseless for quite some time before bringing you back the normal. Paranoid is perhaps the right word to describe how I felt for the first time when that attack gripped me completely. I felt as I was slowly being strangulated to death. One visit to the doctor and I was labeled as anxious and stressed out. All these happened in a span of one year and I easily let it all go for I could see no connection to any of them. Then came a phase where my diet went down to zero and I began losing weight. Of course I was one happy person (who doesn’t like losing weight!!) People once again called it the side effect of working too hard and nothing else. Things went on like this ticking off one after the other till December 2013 when the machine called ME came to a complete halt. The fever refused to leave me for 2 months at a stretch, there was no hunger and no capacity to do anything with large panic attacks recurring like every half an hour. After a lot of experiments in terms of medication and series of tests I was finally admitted to the hospital in mid January 2014 and was on continuous IV drips.

Still the story continued for though the tree had fully grown and was now giving fruits, the root was yet to be found. 24th January 2014. The date is clearly etched in my mind as I sat outside the doctor’s cabin in the waiting room. I could clearly hear their whispers and grab a few words out of them. By this time more than anything else my patience was gone for surviving each day had become a challenge. I looked at my doctor with a very stern face and said, “See I NEED to know what’s wrong. I am tired of it all.” He perhaps realized the pain in my eyes for then he finally replied, “We are getting you tested for leukemia.” I didn’t need to probe any further. I had got all the answers. I gave my tests quietly and came back to the hospital room I had begun to call home since last 10 days. Lying on the bed that night, all alone I started into the darkness that could be called future, the uncertainty that was looming around as to what next. Luckily I didn’t have any complains whatsoever, rather I was waiting for it to be found to be cured for this nothingness was no gnawing me from inside. It was like walking in a pitch dark room. You don’t know what is going to hit you and from where. Well the tests went smoothly with no desired results. But fortunately it led to something else and finally within next 24 hours they ended up detecting my problem and that too correctly. I had embraced an incurable auto-‐immuno disease for a lifetime. It was a different story that I was in the acute stage as it had gone undetected for almost 1.5-‐2 years. I was glad as I could see light at the end of the dark tunnel I was passing through since last few months. The battle was going to end now, I smiled. But I was wrong. The battle didn’t end there. The battle had actually begun. The worst kind of battle is the one that you fight with your ownself. For you know your own strengths and weaknesses. It is scary to be so vulnerable. Till now the battle was with others to survive and now it was with my ownself. The bestest part about this battle is it reminded me of my strengths in an unforgettable manner. It wasn’t easy I agree, but it wasn’t impossible either. For the toughest part was the breed of “well-‐wishers” around me who had a series of mixed reactions ranging from pity to sympathy to anger to hatred to snickers it has all been there. Overnight I had become the boy who kept announcing the false arrival of lion leading to loss of trust. I was being labeled as someone who had got it all in the mind and the so called illness was now renamed a fragment of imagination. And this is to those lovely people who remind me to keep proving my mettle as a warrior. May you never know the pain of not being able to do something you used to master not very long back. May you never wake up in the mornings not knowing how your body is going to be today and what battles will you face.

May you never know the dejection of finding even the simplest jobs the hardest. May you never know the hurt of letting go of dreams for sometimes survival itself seems like a dream. Today as I stand tall and look behind I smile at the nickname given to me by my doctor – Eveready battery one that is charged up always, for that is all I chose to remember from all the other things I hear. I chose to smile at those few reasons I had rather than cry at those thousand reasons I ignored. The side effects this thing brings in are many and they keep changing every day. But well I love this change. I love finding new ways and means to render that problem useless. This birthday I gave myself the gift of acceptance as I accepted myself with all the minuses this disease had added. The battles never cease, nor do you cease being a warrior. What ceases is the fear of having to fight a battle. For now you are used to it. You look forward to those battles for they define you for life and define life for you. Yes Dear LIFE, I am crazily, madly in love with you. This small setback cannot make me hate you enough yet. You better stop trying to make me hate for I will never stop loving you ever. Rather I will keep giving you reasons to fall in love with me, everyday with a newer penchant. Lovingly Yours forever, Me P.S: The title of the post has been borrowed from a very famous award winning book by Alice Munro for that is the only thing that came to my mind. -‐Namrata An investment banker by profession and a child -‐ woman, a dreamer, a dancer, a bibliophile, an author, a poetess, a writer, a painter, a singer, a go-‐getter, a doer, an achiever by passion is how I would like to be described. Having spent close to three decades on this planet I am still very inquisitive about this enigma called LIFE though it is my biggest teacher and inspiration. http://www.privytrifles.com/

My Grandpa

Nestled amidst the cushions on my porch, I was sipping a hot cup of coffee and admiring the frolicking waves of the beach ahead of me. The white frothy waves pranced up and down, with a life of their own, cradling tiny colorful paper boats probably made by some children. A few sea gulls glided above the waves effortlessly. A picture-‐perfect landscape for a nature-‐loving person like me, my life couldn’t get better! The perfect weather for rumination, I thought to myself. The up-‐and-‐down prancing of the waves reminded me of my grandfather. He and I often used to go for long walks by the beach in the evening. I may have been four or five years old then. I would hold my grandpa’s hand and walk across Marine Drive and the parks, snaking our way around the beach. In the midst, my grandpa would treat me to cone ice creams and sand-‐roasted groundnuts. On our way back home, my grandpa loved to snack on his favorite drink Lassi. My grandpa was a strong person who continued to work post-‐retirement till his mid-‐eighties. I still remember him saying to me when we used to walk around the beach, “Look at those waves, child. They dance up and down. Similarly, life has its ups and downs. The trick lies in facing life with its ups and downs with a determined mind by not letting the pebbles deter you.” His most-‐wanted wish was to see me married and settled. The rebel that I was and I am I never accepted the proposals that came my way. Falling in love was the last thing I had in my mind. The dreamer that I was, I yearned to travel the world, meet people, fall in and out of love, learn languages, and taste different cuisines. I didn’t want to be bogged down by commitments of marriage or relationships. My Mom and Dad were worried as I was their only child. Eventually, my grandfather passed away. Soon after his death, my grandmother too died. Destiny fulfilled his wish somehow! I got married to a man who turned out be an unconventional guy, only two years older to me. My grandpa’s health had drastically deteriorated by then. I knew he would no longer survive but I clung onto my hope. I badly wanted him to see us after our honeymooning in Manali. I wanted him to know that his favorite granddaughter had finally got hitched! We returned shortly to hear the demise of my grandpa; I had already sensed his death. I had a dream during my honeymoon in Manali. In my dream, I saw my grandpa sitting on his favorite lawn chair on the porch overlooking the beach. He

looked pale and thin, and in a lost world. I was sitting next to him. He was holding my hand, and muttering something. I couldn’t understand anything as his words were indistinct. I held his fragile hands gently and listened. Overwhelmed by my tears, I tried to put on a brave façade. He murmured again, and I held his hands tightly. Slowly, his grip on my hands loosened. I turned to face the beach and I saw sea gulls ascending toward the sky. I woke up in the middle of the night and wept. My worried husband tried his best to console me by saying that my grandpa would be fine. Around 4 a.m., my Dad called us to convey the news of his demise and funeral arrangements for the next day. By coincidence, we had had booked our return flights for the same day! My grandpa is no longer with me. I have a family of my own now, a loving husband and two beautiful daughters. My grandpa’s invisible presence continues to strengthen me, keeping me afloat on the tide of pebbles that life throws at me. His saying continues to remain with me, guiding me like a lighthouse that illuminates rugged waterways. Life continues to offer me its share of roller coasters. My pillar of strength and my beacon, his memories and sayings remain etched in my heart forever and will be passed on as heirloom to my daughters. -‐Smitha Abraham Smitha loves traveling in her flights of imagination and uses these flights to craft short stories and poetry. Full time mom to a give-‐month-‐old baby and a budding writer from India, her passions are reading, creative writing, listening to music, learning new languages, meeting new people, getting acquainted with different cultures and traveling.

From 'Dil waalo ki Dilli' To City of Nizams

As a hardcore North Indian I had a strong prejudice against the people and places of South India but after coming to the city of pearls i.e. Hyderabad my notion completely changed. Being a pampered princess at home it was indeed a paradoxical decision to join hostel and pursue MBA. It was initially tough to adjust from the freethinking atmosphere of Delhi University to the disciplined and conservative background of Andhra Pradesh. To keep myself busy I decided to explore different places and culture of the city. I was lucky that my college organized a city tour so that I could be little familiar with the city. Monuments like Char Minar, Golcunda fort and the legendary Hussain Sagar completely glorified the city of Nawabs. The proud feeling of being an Indian surrounded my heart after seeing all the masterpieces of architecture and also handicrafts of Char minar and Shilparamam.. Even exquisite cuisines like Biryani, Double ka meetha, Qurbani ka meetha and above all Haleem also tingled my taste buds. I was also lured by the amazing shopper’s paradise of bangles in Lad Bazaar and designer apparels in Abids and Sindhi colony. I really enjoy the coffee and cookies at Banjara and Jubilee hills. Apart from all this the city also is a hub for all the dream IT firms viz Amazon.com, Google, Facebook, Deloitte and Accenture etc. Staying in Hyderabad from past one and half years I’ve started loving this place. Everything about this place makes me have unique experience right from people’s language (having words like ‘loga, naako’) to their never say die attitude in life. I now have many telegu friends and even I have learnt the language too some extent. With proper law and order in the city as compared to Delhi I now feel more secured, confident and believe that if you are good people brighten up your life. Since I have pursued my MBA in tourism and hospitality I have also visited some extraordinary places of Andhra Pradesh with great thrill and enthusiasm. Ramoji Film city, Kunthala waterfalls and Papikondalu are some of them which has given me uncountable memories. I have actually seen people practicing hospitality especially in COP-‐11. It was so fortunate to see the people from different corners of the world gathering in Hyderabad assembling to promote one big noble cause. The foreigners were also moved to see our diverse culture apart from the warm hospitality which we provided them. This added yet another feather to the cap of our own motherland. We took extreme pride in showcasing ourselves as “Indians”. Sometimes as a token of appreciation the foreign delegates also gave away their badges to us. -‐Deep Shikha

Why Not Wellness?

When your child is in Xth standard, do you look for ads, which tell you enroll and get assured admission in AIIMS /IIT or score 90% above in boards, or do you keen watch the space saying, ‘10th fail 12th pass kare” and then wait for them to fail 10th and say ‘hey lets wait for 3 years, and do all three tears in one shot. Why think about it now?”. Lot of times we start to talk about retirement planning, but overlook the goals we have at all stages of lives. These goals not only impact our economic wellbeing but also changes our socio-‐wellbeing. The impact of these changes are life changing, esp. in Indian society, be at Xth class result, your intercaste marriage. But seldom we look at this aspect as socio-‐psychological wellness and never reach out to an expert (counselling is a forbidden word in India, it is meant for people with mental disorders only) to handle such situations. But what we do instead is wait for things to get out of hand, by relying on household, friend advice, even for things with visible and serious implications like diabetes, known family history of Blood pressure, until the LIPID profile test shows your fallacy was a fallacy.

Wellness, is not just preventing, but keeping things the way they are by introducing a stimulus. Education, Engagement & Evaluation. So what are we doing, lets recount that last you heard about what WELLNESS, it was may be when your company or a sponsor said, we are organizing a marathon, still the societies, companies involved etc. Were the once driving he sales of drugs meant for these diseases. I bring a point for you to ponder, there are aspects which we need to look at. Example, now a days each household has an average of 2-‐3 credit cards, 5 saving accounts, multiple mobile bills, electricity bills, insurance policies etc. which we need to track daily, suddenly, we start overspending and miss due dates, this makes leads to financial pressures. The guy is worried and is being chased by banks, he is stressed, say bye bye to psychological wellness. Then he is just on the verge to cheer him self, and you know what, the bank still gives him credit and he goes to do more shopping, not only that he starts to drink more, what we call substance abuse. This often leads to unknown characteristics like theft from office, may not physical stuff but data to others, take undue favors from vendors etc. While for all of this mental and physical abuse is constantly impacting his wellness. We are neglecting these signs, and only when we are faced with epidemics like teenage pregnancy we will think about educating our children and folks. It is the right time to get WELLNESS EDUCATION – FINANCIAL, PHYSICAL and PYSOLOGICAL in our system, lest we will be country of challenged minds struggling to be happy. -‐Nishant Sharma

The Bond Of Brother - Sister

Do you remember the small fights with your siblings on funny reasons and then patch ups? Childhood is considered as best part of life. Life seemed to be so simple with having small issues of chocolate and toy fights. When I think about my Indian tradition I feel very proud of being born in this incredible culture and country. Life is full of colourful ceremonies and rituals. If you start counting, you cannot find a single emotion or relationship that is missing or being ignored in my culture. Be it parents or lovers, be it mother in law or daughter and even the bond of brother -‐ sister. Each and every relationship is given due importance by celebrating it in a festival form. Girls are worshipped (kanya-‐poojan) in Navratras by considering them Goddesses. And boys are pampered when the festival of Raksha-‐bandhan is celebrated. Raksha-‐Bandhan or Rakhi is a celebration of brother -‐ sister bond. This is not only a ceremony when a sister tie a Rakhi or thread on brother's wrist but a renew of unsaid promise of support between them. This is reminder given to each other that no matter what happens we will always love and accept each other and support each other. In modern terms you may call Rakhi as friendship band. So, Rakhi is life long friendship of brother and sister even when they don't live together in same home as they used to live in childhood; and also when they are living their lives separately (even different cities) with their life partner and children. The emotional and mental support, the childhood and teenage secrets are part of it. I still remember how we use to bunk tuitions, the hand made cards and gifts we use to give each other, sharing chocolates, writing long letters from hostels, protecting each other from bullying, going on long drives, gifting favourite music cassettes and all.... These days when I observe sibling's relationships I find material gifts have taken more space than enjoying small pleasures. There is lack of communication and it is increasing more and more. We enjoy the company of gadgets more than real human beings. Due to less interaction the understanding level is also less. We are concerned with our own space rather than sharing. So now days the celebration of Rakhi has become more or less a formality of exchanging expensive gifts. It is very sad that even sisters take this As an opportunity to take expensive gifts and big amount of money. The emotions are reduced. Till today instead of buying Rakhi from the market I always made it within my own hand to express my love for my brother. I never

took any gift or money in exchange till my brother started earning. And I never demanded any specific amount or exchange. I feel it is more important to spend time and relish old memories when we have become so busy in our careers. Lets go to the memory lane on this Rakhi when we go and meet our siblings. Life is constantly moving and in our busy life style we have forgotten to relax and enjoy. We have stopped enjoying the present moment. Try these few things on this Rakhi when you meet your brother-‐sisters. 1.Understand emotions and feelings are more important than gifts. 2. When you buy rakhi for your brother, before tying hold it in your hands. Fill it with positive energy/memories. Say a prayer on it. If you are a healer then energize it. I’m sure the energy will touch the heart of your brother. 3.If you are giving gift to your sister consider her choice rather than giving expensive gift to show off. Don’t give for formality sake. Give it from the heart. Bless the gift as told above. 4.Spend time together enjoying the moment. If you have kids then tell them your childhood memories. 5.Be simple and authentic in relationships and enjoy life. Happy Raksha -‐ bandhan! -‐Prathma Prathma is a Reiki & Karuna Reiki Master. She is practising and teaching Reiki & many other healing Modalities for last 15 years. As she is an expert in Reiki, Magnified Healing, Past Life Regression Therapy, Theta Healing, Angel Therapy, EET and EFT. She has formed a Spiritual Meditation Club in Batala, in which Group Meditation is practiced & taught to every member. Master Prathma has also taken meditation sessions in Leading IT companies in Pune (like KPIT, Mansoft & Sungaurd). She also works as a Student Counselor in Gems International School, Batala. She is also a Tarot and Angel Card Reader. You can reach her at (M)09815489756, prathma.healingzone@gmail.com, http://prathmahealingzone.com/

What do Rahu and Ketu have in Store for You this Year?

Rahu and Ketu are shadow planets and always move in a retrograde manner. Rahu has moved into its own sign Virgo and Ketu into its own sign Pisces on the 12th of July 2014 and will remain in these signs for 18 months. These planets will transit these signs next after a period of 18 years in 2035.This transit will be beneficial for some signs and difficult for others.

Aries-‐ Rahu will transit the 6th house from your sign and Ketu will transit the 12th house. Both these transits will be good for you. Your business is likely to flourish and you may get a promotion in your job. If you are unemployed then you are likely to get a job. If you are facing any health issue you are likely to get relief. You will spend good time with family and friends. Diffuse sandalwood essential oil in your house and place of work. Donate a blanket to the temple priest. Taurus:-‐ For your sign, Rahu is transiting the 5th house and Ketu is transiting the 11th house. This transit will remain average for you. You are likely to expand your friend circle and they will prove to be useful for you. If you are a student the studies are likely to get disturbed. Remain focused and be regular in your work and keep away from useless friends. Parents should take special care of their kids and watch their progress carefully. Expect new responsibilities at your place of work. You are advised to do Durga Pooja with faith and devotion. Gemini-‐ Rahu is transiting the 4th house from your sign and Ketu will transit the 10th house. This transit will bring all round progress in your life. You will be successful in competitive exams. There will be increase in your income and you can expect promotion in your work. Do charity for the lepers and feed the dogs.

Cancer-‐ Placement of Rahu in the 3rd house and the 11th house are considered best. During the present transit Rahu is in its best position. Earlier we have seen that transit of Jupiter is also excellent for you. Hence you can look forward to 18 months of uninterrupted progress and happiness in life. You will be full of vitality and vigor. You will enjoy a position of honor in society. Learning the lessons of life will now be easy for you. Feed the dogs and donate in the Shiva temple. Leo-‐ Rahu transits the 2nd house from your sign. There will be improvement in the family relations. There will be an elevation in your position in the society. You are likely to get new opportunities to grow in life. Be careful not to hurt anyone with your rude words as Rahu is likely to affect your speech adversely. Keep barley by your bedside and feed it to the birds in the morning. Virgo-‐ This is a very good period for you. Jupiter is transiting your 11th house of fulfillment of desires and now Rahu is transiting your own sign. Virgo is Rahu’s own sign and Rahu is friendly to your sign of Mercury. Expect success in all your endeavors. There will be prosperity and happiness in your life. You are likely to gain immovable property and financial success. Keep red sandalwood on your person. Libra-‐ Rahu transits the 12th house from your sign and Ketu transits the 6th house from your sign. This transit is likely to give you some relief from your past problems. You are likely to come out of stagnation as Rahu moves out of birth sign. You are likely to get success in those matters which were stuck in any way. You will get new opportunities to earn money. Feed sugar to ants on Saturday and Tuesday. Scorpio-‐ You will be experiencing a very good time as transit of Jupiter and Rahu/Ketu is in your favor. You are likely to get monetary gain, property and vehicle. You will enjoy good relations with all in the family and social circle. You are likely to get good news regarding your children. As you are also experiencing sade saati, you are advised to cultivate positive attitude. Sagittarius-‐ This is not a favorable transit for you. Take care! Do not trust people easily. Do not get into any kind of partnership. You are advised to recite Durga Saptshati to tide over this difficult time. Capricorn-‐ This is average time for you as regards this transit in question. Take good care of yourself. Do not trust people easily. You may have to change your old plans. Your plans may not succeed as you thought. You may feel disturbed due to some reason or the other. Aquarius-‐ This is good transit for you. Expect good news from your children. You are likely to get happiness and success in all endeavors. Legal matters are likely to get sorted in your favor. Savings will be easy for you. Donate black and white blanket on Saturday.

Pisces-‐ Expect 18 months of all round progress. Enjoy the good time. Name, fame and prosperity all will be yours these 18 months. You will get the opportunity to shoulder new responsibilities and these will elevate your status. Feed pigeons. Forever In Gratitude To Her Divine Grace! -‐Archana Sharma Archana Sharma is an M.Phil in Life Sciences and practises in Astrology, Numerology and alternative therapies. She is currently pursuing research in Medical Astrology. You can contact her on 09871153164 or archana7sharma@gmail.com Rahu Ketu is the name given to the Nodes of the Moon. Rahu is the North Node and Ketu is the South Node. They are points on the ecliptic where the Moon is in alignment with the Sun and the Earth. They indicate the precise point of the harmony with the three most important influences in our life-‐ the Sun, the Earth and the Moon. This relationship plays an important part in the enfolding of individual consciousness. Their role as Karmic indicators of our life is connected with their power to cause eclipses. The eclipses occur in the vicinity of Rahu Ketu during the Full Moon and the New Moon. (During New Moon when it is +/-‐ 18 degrees from Rahu Ketu, the Solar eclipse takes place. At the full Moon +/-‐ 11 degrees 15' from the nodal position, the Lunar eclipse takes place.) As they symbolically eclipse the Sun (consciousness) and the Moon (the Mind), they have a great part to play in darkening our perspective in order to bring in new light. They deal with the concept of death and re-‐birth, transformation and regeneration. During the eclipses the light from the Luminaries is darkened. The energies created are powerfully psychic, pregnant with new information and occult power. The period after the eclipse is considered a rebirth of the Sun and the Moon. The role of Rahu Ketu in this powerful alignment of the Sun Moon and the Earth gives them the role of the ultimate controllers of the destiny. Source: http://www.komilla.com/

Tarot Predictions August 2014

Aries (March 21 to April 20)

This month you will need to be very meticulous and thorough with your goals, planning and taking action on it. You are being guided to your goals and appropriate actions. Seeking approval from outside will hinder your progress as no one can understand you and your goals as best as you can. Approve of yourself and act accordingly. Work and Finances: Work pressure would be high and you might feel as if you are handling more than you possibly can. Take it easy. Be careful of someone at workplace who might be sabotaging you. Financially, you may face some constraints this month. Love: Relationships would be loving yet you seem to be expecting a lot from your partner. Take a reality bite, accept what is present. If you are single and looking for love, you need to move out of your comfort zone. Health: Health will be good. Nurture your body with rest and natural supplements. Message from the Angels: Pay attention to your dreams, as they are messages from the angels for your path ahead or answers to your prayers. Don’t let your dreams die because they are too impossible. Ask for help from angels whenever the dreams seem too big to be true.

Taurus (April 21 -‐ May 21)

This month you need to take a step back and check your progress. Where have you been, where are you and where are you going. Mediation and contemplation will be very helpful. Don’t take any major decisions this month as they may backfire if taken prematurely. Learn to be assertive instead of aggressive in your dealing with people. It will be a good idea to speak up your mind. Work and Finances: This month you might need to take things as they come instead of pushing for results as it is only going to increase the stress levels without any results. Be open to new opportunities form unexpected sources. Financially this is a good time.

Love: Relationships may not go as per your expectations and minor issues could be blown up into major ones. Watch what you speak. If you sense something is not quite right in your relationship, speak up and talk about it before its too late. Health: Health will be average. Moving away from the current stressors for a while will be rejuvenating. Stick to a healthy lifestyle routine. Message from the Angels: Explore your creative talent or abilities to find solutions to your problems. Keep your ears open as you may hear divine guidance through physical ears or etheric ears from your angels and act upon it.

Gemini (May 22 -‐ June 21)

Situations may not be as bad as they seem to be on the surface. Your fears and thoughts may be amplifying the negatives of a person or situation. Look at things from a neutral perspective before taking any major decisions. Be very clear about what you want and act out of integrity. Short-‐term gains could lead to long-‐term losses. Work and Finances: Take things as they come at the work place. Don’t push too hard for results or you might have to face resistance from your colleagues or employees. Financially, this will be a good month. Love: Relationships need transparent communication. Don’t hesitate to express yourself or talk about conflicts if any. It will help to strengthen your bond. Be open to looking at things from different perspectives without taking them personally. Health: Health will be average. Keep yourself grounded and energetically clean by shielding and protecting your energy. Message from the Angels: Difficulties and situations are now healing. Surrender them to angels and God so they can work on it and provide you the solutions in the best possible way. Hand your problems to angels.

Cancer (June 22 -‐ July 22)

Take it easy this month, remember to breathe. You have perhaps been trying too hard to achieve results or have things go your way. However, if things seem to keep slipping out of control, learn to go with the flow. Financially, this month will open up new sources of money. Personally too, this month will be very auspicious.

Work and Finances: Your expertise will be appreciated and called upon for helping and guidance. If you have been looking for a job, this month you will get lucky. Promotions and raise is on the cards for you. Financially, this will be a good month. Love: Relationships will be a little taxing. You need to be authentic in your relations and act out of integrity. A relationship that you had held very close to heart might come to an end or experience difficulties. Release any negative feelings towards the other person. Health: Health will be average and require care especially if you have been recovering from an illness. Keep working at it regularly. Don’t hesitate to take a second opinion if you are not satisfied with your health professional. Message from the Angels: Nurture your inner child. Spending time with children will also be a healing activity for you. Children show you the power of joy, joy without reason.

Leo (July 23 -‐ August 21)

If you have been feeling stuck in your life and relationships somewhere, this is the time when you will achieve some insights into how to move ahead with it. You may also be guided to let go and surrender the results to the universe. This month focus on your life’s purpose. Something that you are passionate about if definitely a part of your life’s purpose. Pray to receive insights into how to integrate it into your life and work. Work and Finances: Your work will be appreciated by seniors. Don’t fret it out and try to do everything on your own. Help is readily available, be open to receiving it. No one is out there to get you or hurt you. Financially, this will be a rewarding month. Love: Relationships are moving to another dimension and beginning to get deep enough to touch the soul. Don’t hesitate to reveal your true self. Moving away from home and starting an independent life is on the cards for some. Health: Health will be good but will keep creating some minor issues now and then. Make meditation or some spiritual practice a part of your daily life routine. Message from the Angels: It is a good time to go back to school to enhance your knowledge or go back to the planning stage and revise your plans. Your answers lie in finding more about your concerned situation and being well informed.

Virgo (August 22 -‐ September 23)

This month would be a mixed bag of good times and some troubling moments. Opportunities that’s you have been looking for will be close to you yet you will need to put in more than needed efforts in order to materialize them. You may have some strains in relationships with friends and family. Be open to seeing other person’s perspective as well. Work and Finances: Work will be good and you are blessed with a good sense of your work. However, you need to step down and connect with your colleagues and employees to get things done. It is all about co-‐operation and equality. Financially, this month will be average, you may have to struggle to receive investments for your business. Love: Relationships may face some strain, as minor issues become major issues out of ego clashes and a lack of understanding. Be open to seeing different perspectives. If single, do not commit in a hurry. Health: Health will be average. Focus on healing and balancing your emotions and everything else will take care of itself. Message from the Angels: Be playful this month just like angels. Seriousness weighs you down and reduces your capacity for work. Playfulness is a divine quality, which can bring light into darkness. Find light and humour in every situation.

Libra (September 24 -‐ October 23)

This month is will be a good month for you as ideas come to fruition, relationships move to the next level and paths become visible to make your dreams come true. This month could also signal the beginning of a new business venture or an idea. Work hard, play harder and keep yourself free enough to enjoy some leisure time too. Work and Finances: Your work will be appreciated by your seniors and colleagues. Promotion or a raise that is due is likely to come your way. Take your time making decisions and don’t hurry into new ventures. Financially, this will be a rewarding

month. Love: Relationships will be nurturing and you will find your comfort and peace. Your motherly qualities of nurturing and giving can take a toll on you. So remember to keep the cycle of giving and receiving balanced.

Health: Health will be average. Heal your emotions and practice healthy energetic practices like Reiki, Pranic healing etc. to keep your energy system balanced and detoxed. Message from the Angels: This is a good time to work on your spiritual growth and lessons. Meditation, contemplation and connecting with the Angelic realm can be one of the ways to do that.

Scorpio (October 24 -‐ November 22)

You have been waiting for opportunities to arrive or for relationships to be sorted out somehow. However, things are not going to happen on their own. You are receiving accurate divine guidance, but you need to act on it to set things right. Travel abroad this month is on the cards. There is no need to cry over spilt milk as there is so much more to come and to cherish. Work and Finances: Your work is being appreciated. If you have been looking for opportunities for a change in job or a switch in career, it is likely to happen this month. Don’t hesitate even if this involves change of location, as it will be beneficial for you. Love: Relationships need clarity and action steps to resolve any misunderstandings. If you are not happy about something or have ben having gut feelings to take an action, by all means act on it. If single and ready to mingle, move out more often and watch out for your body giving you signs when you meet the right one. Health: Health will be average. An old health issue might come up forcing you to take a relook into your life right now and work on detoxing yourself. Message from the Angels: Angels are sending you signs to assure you that they are working behind the scenes to resolve the current situation. Have faith and don’t forget to ask for help and signs.

Sagittarius (November 23 -‐ December 24)

This month you may feel like you are fighting a battle like a lone warrior. However, this does not have to be like a battle. Learn to receive help and trust that people are willing to unconditionally help you and help is available. You will be able to handle many things very well and without much problems. Keep your thinking positive as past

comes in front of you to be released once and for all. Work and Finances: Instead of complaining at workplace, take a positive action. You may feel left out or alone however you are really being supported by unexpected people. Financially this month will be average. Expenditures may throw your budget off course. Love: Relationships need more awareness to be handled well. Don’t rely too much on others if that’s your gut reaction. Learn to listen to your intuition as it is guiding you well in matters of the heart. Health: Health will need to be taken care of. Energy medicine and techniques will be more beneficial. Spend some time alone contemplating and meditating. Message from the Angels: Retreat into nature as it will be nurturing and rejuvenating to your nerves and body. Try herbal remedies for your current health issues if any, as they would give you maximum benefit.

Capricorn (December 23 -‐ January 20)

This month you may feel like lazying around and mood swings may take a toll on you. However, be careful of this as it may affect your performance at work and also be harmful for your relationships that need more care at this time. Time to rest and relax will come a little later but this month, be focused on what you want to achieve as your goals are within grasp. Work and Finances: Work will be good. Don’t be too hesitant about sharing your know-‐how or wisdom at workplace, as it will put you in the good books of those who matter. Financially, it is an average month. Money inflows will increase.

Love: Relationships need your attention and sincerity. Your partner maybe in a mood for some serious talk. Don’t dilute these situations with humour or you may have to pay a heavy price later on. Health: Health will be good and will support you throughout. Salt-‐water baths will be rejuvenating and uplifting. Message from the Angels: Trust yourself, your abilities and your angels that everything is going to work out just fine. Worrying is never an answer to anything at all. Instead it attracts the very thing that is causing you worry. Focus on your desired outcome and let angels do their magic.

Aquarius (January 21 -‐ February 19)

Changes are on the cards this month as a change of place or job is indicated. The change will always be for the positive so don’t be too hesitant about leaving your comfort zone. There may be some minor conflicts which can be dealt by you efficiently. Don’t lose your temper as these problems are temporary and will sort out soon. Work and Finances: Be careful of who you place your trust in at the workplace as someone close to you may act against integrity. Financially, avoid lending money this month as it could cause some trouble later on. Love: Relationships may face some minor turbulence. Don’t lose sleep over minor issues as they will settle soon. Don’t let any third person interfere in your personal relationships as it could only lead to escalation of the issues. Talk through to your partner. Health: Health will be good and will help you walk through all the problems easily. Don’t forget to nurture yourself amidst this chaotic month. Message from the Angels: Self-‐acceptance is the only path towards peace. Until you accept the situation, you don’t give it the freedom to change. Ask angels to help you with acceptance.

Pisces (February 19 -‐ March 20)

You are very close to achieving your goals – personal as well as professional. Don’t give up at this moment even if the situation seems to be against you. Change of place or residence is on the cards. Be open to sharing your wisdom and work with others but don’t expect too much from anyone. Work and Finances: Work will be hectic and you need to give your hundred percent into achieving your targets otherwise you might have to repent later on. If you are stuck somewhere, instead of depending on others, find ways in which you can help yourself. Financially, this is a below average month. Money inflow may stagnate for a while before it gets revived. Love: Relationships will require time and patience as you move through the ups and downs that are a part of every healthy relationship. If you are single, take your time making any decision.

Health: Health will be average. You need to take care of your health on a daily basis. Any negligence could lead to problems later on. Message from the Angels: You will have cause for celebration very soon. Angels urge you to treat every moment as a celebration of life and live hundred percent. Soaking in the energy of moon, especially around the full moon will enhance your manifestation abilities. With Grace and Light -‐Meetu Sehgal Meetu Sehgal, a Tarot Consultant and Holistic Healer, is an MBA from Delhi University. With more than 8 years of experience in Tarot Reading, she is known as a “Tarot Healer” for her in-‐depth tarot counseling sessions which are insightful as well as empowering. You can reach her at meetu.sehgal@gmail.com or www.divineinnovations.org She also teaches Osho Zen Tarot, Reiki and other holistic sciences. People often ask me, “do you really believe in Tarot cards?” And truthfully, the answer is “no!” The cards are just paper or cardboard; they have no intrinsic worth. But what I do believe in is the power of the mind and the power of Spirit to work though us and through the universal symbols and images found in the cards. The cards are a visual expression of the wisdom found in the unconscious. Further, many believe that the deeper we go within ourselves, the closer we come to God. The unconscious mind is a vast resource – it contains the answers to many of our questions and the solutions to our problems. It is the creative, inventive part of our psyche. In the simplest terminology, the cards are a way of communicating with this unlimited resource in its own language. Further, each one of us has unlimited potential available to us through the unconscious mind. Scientists inform us that the average person is using only about 3% of the brain power. So think about everything you know, everything you learned in college and high school, all the books you’ve ever read – this is only a small fraction of the wisdom locked inside of you. The Tarot is one tool that allows you to unlock some of that potential. The Tarot is a way of exploring energies and vibrations. In

Fengshui for the Rainy Season

Fengshui is the art of living in sync with nature. Nature changes its rhythm with every change of season. If we are able to tune in with this change, then we can not only enjoy but also make full use of the changing energy patterns. Rainy season is in full swing now. These Fengshui tips can help you connect to the changing moods of Mother Nature. 1. De-‐ Clutter your house and clean all nooks and corners. Keep the furniture and other artifacts to the minimum. Let there be free flow of the chi’ in your premises. Clean and rearrange your closet. Donate what you do not need. 2. In India rains come after the scorching summer season, and hence are looked forward to by all. You can savor the fragrance of the rain drops falling on the parched earth. Trees sway to the gentle breeze and come clean with the rain falling on them. Take a cue from this and be in attitude of gratitude. It can be a good idea to make a list of all that you can be grateful for in your life. 3. As the rains force you to spend more time indoors, relax with your favorite music, read books which you always wanted to read. Diffusing soothing and calming essential oils in your living area is also a good idea. 4. Whenever possible take a walk in the garden or forest. Get soaked in the rain and feel the rain drops falling on your bare skin. This is a good way of being in harmony with nature at this time. 5. There is abundance of the wood and the water element at this time. Keep some plants indoors. 6. Surround yourself with green color as this is predominant color of nature at this time. 7. This is also the time of sowing of seeds; plant some flowering plants or other plants as Mother Nature is ready to nourish them. Hence this is the time for new beginnings, new projects and new enterprises. Energies at this time are so potent that a project well begun at this time is sure to flourish. 8. In India the rainy season is called as the month of “Shravan”. Shravan means to listen. Listening to or reading the scriptures are often advised in this season. Practice silence to listen to your inner voice. Be in silence and listen to the

sounds of nature outside. This is a meditation in itself. Spend time in meditation and contemplation. 9. Keep yourself relaxed and warm by taking herbal drinks like chamomile, spicy orange and peppermint. Forever In Gratitude To Her Divine Grace! -‐Archana Sharma Archana Sharma is an M.Phil in Life Sciences and practises in Astrology, Numerology and alternative therapies. She is currently pursuing research in Medical Astrology. You can contact her on 09871153164 or archana7sharma@gmail.com Feng shui is an ancient art and science developed over 3,000 years ago in China. It is a complex body of knowledge that reveals how to balance the energies of any given space to assure health and good fortune for people inhabiting it. Feng means wind and shui means water. In Chinese culture wind and water are associated with good health, thus good feng shui came to mean good fortune, while bad feng shui means bad luck, or misfortune. Feng shui is based on the Taoist vision and understanding of nature, particularly on the idea that the land is alive and filled with Chi, or energy. Source: http://fengshui.about.com/

Astrological Queries from the Readers

Query-‐ My daughter Shree is born on 5th June 2013 at 9:30 A.M in Kunnamkulam in Kerala. Some people say that she will have problems in her married life. What can be done to remedy it. What are the other difficult aspects that should be taken care of? Answer-‐ It is against astrological ethics to read and predict the chart of such a small child. So please refrain from doing so till she is has reached 12 years of age. However, here are some points you should take care of. She is a Cancer ascendant and her janam raashi is Aries. Her janam nakshatra is Ashwini (4th charan) and nakshatra lord is Ketu. She is running mahadasha of Venus and antar dasha of Venus till 2017. She is not a Manglik. Instead of bothering about astrological predictions, take care other things that might help her. She is likely to have a medium height and oval chubby face. She may be prone to gain weight around her waist. She may have a disturbed digestive system. Ensure that she develops the habit of regular exercise. Be careful about her throat and chest as she is prone to infections. Give her healthy food habits. She is likely to be a sensitive child, take care of her emotional health. Do not beat her or insult her. Do not put illogical restrictions on her. Do not try to subordinate her; rather persuade her by giving logic which she will understand. If she is not handled well she may face emotional shut down and become introvert. She is likely to be a responsible girl who knows the consequences of her actions. She will be trustworthy. She may have anger issues, be careless, lazy and keep changing her stance or she may be selfish. She needs to work on these help her in this. She may be slow to learn in school, have patience. Her lucky colors are: -‐ white, red and yellow. Blue and green are not suitable. Lucky day is Tuesday. Her lucky stones are red coral, yellow sapphire and pearl. She may be a surgeon, technical person, may be associated with the defense or police services; she may do well as an interpreter of foreign languages. She may go abroad for her studies. She may have problems in her married life which can be become much less if she marries a foreigner or a person with spiritual bent of mind. Fame and fortune, property etc increase after marriage.

Astrology is not all about predictions and destiny; it is about knowing one’s potential and how to make the best of it and how to change negative aspects into positive ones to lead to a fulfilled life. Forever In Gratitude To Her Divine Grace! -‐Archana Sharma Archana Sharma is an M.Phil in Life Sciences and practises in Astrology, Numerology and alternative therapies. She is currently pursuing research in Medical Astrology. You can contact her on 09871153164 or archana7sharma@gmail.com Kala Sarpa Yoga is formed when Rahu Ketu hem in the planets in the natal chart i.e. if Rahu is 10 degrees Leo and Ketu 10 degrees Aquarius and all the planets are within these degrees, either from Leo to Aquarius or Aquarius to Leo (Vedic Astrology does not use the outer planets Uranus, Neptune and Pluto). For this yoga to be complete, no planet should conjunct Rahu or Ketu. It restricts completely any indications of the charts. However capable the person, his life is impeded due to past Karma. Important lessons have to be faced in this life, where no amount of effort is rewarded, obstacles are encountered at every junction for inexplicable reasons. The Yoga does not suggest either success or failure, but a person caught up in Karmic forces so great that they restrict his/ her destiny. It acts mysteriously, without other indications in the birth Chart. A heavy price is paid for past Karma in this life. Understanding and counter-‐ acting the effects of Kala Sarpa Yoga needs a person to move towards his higher self. As Rahu and Ketu act on the inner self, the need to understand the psychic implications and the inner blocks created by this combination is important. Source: http://www.komilla.com/

Fengshui Queries from the Readers

Question-‐ I have often heard about the “Commanding Position” in Fengshui, What is this commanding position and how it can be applied in practical life? Also if none of the criteria about this position can be followed, then what to do? Answer-‐ First let us understand what the commanding position is. As the word suggests the commanding position is the one which makes you feel in control of the place or situation, where things happen according to your desire and command. Fengshui prescribes various criteria for deciding the commanding position at your place of work.

1. The office desk should be placed diagonally from the door in the farthest corner. If you cannot put your desk diagonal from the door, at least have as much space as possible in front of your desk. 2. You should have a good view of the door from your desk. If this is not possible occupy a place which gives you a good view of the person approaching you. 3. You should have a good, solid support at the back. Avoid any window or a glass wall at the back. If you have to use a window or a glass wall as your back support, keep a chair with a high back or a chair which is impressive. However, be careful that the chair should not so big and daunting that you get drowned in it. 4. Your desk should not be in line with the door. This can be remedied by keeping a screen between the door and the desk or by keeping some plants in between to block the shar chi coming from the door.

Although these rules are so simple, that they can easily applied in even a small area, yet if these cannot be followed, find a position which makes you feel in charge of the space as well as the activity going on around you. Let your intuition guide you. And as always the premises should be absolutely clutter free. The office racks or books should be well organized and kept neat. Forever In Gratitude To Her Divine Grace! -‐Archana Sharma Archana Sharma is an M.Phil in Life Sciences and practises in Astrology, Numerology and alternative therapies. She is currently pursuing research in Medical Astrology. You can contact her on 09871153164 or archana7sharma@gmail.com

Jupiter meets Venus The brightest planets orbiting the sky will be at conjunction or will appear less than half a degree away from each other on the morning of August 18. Although they will be closest to each other at around 9.36 am (Indian Standard Time), when the sun will make it impossible to view them, you can get a good look, without any viewing equipment, around 5 am. Source: http://www.dnaindia.com/lifestyle/report-‐rare-‐astronomy-‐ events-‐of-‐2014-‐1944084

Book Review - The Dream Catcher Author: Namrata

Dreams are often most profound when they seem the most crazy. ~Sigmund Freud This quote held the secret of her life tightly within those words. The world is not for dreamers, it is for doers and achievers she was told. But she did not stop dreaming for she was not a dreamer, she was a dream catcher, and someone who could grab thoughts out of the imagination weaves them into dreams, makes them into a reality just in the blink of an eye. Join her in her journey to becoming a dream catcher and witness magic of LIFE unfold that will reinstate your belief in miracles. The dream catcher is the story of a girl who was always teased for being a dreamer, for living in a world that was far away from reality. But she choose to let it all go unheard for somewhere deep in her heart she believed that dreams do come true, otherwise why were they set in your eyes in the first place. The book talks about her journey from being tagged a nothing to becoming a something that made everyone gape at her in awe. Her fights throughout the book for something as bare minimum as existence are truly touching. The author has managed to keep the narrative so simple yet intriguing that it is difficult to imagine the situation for that child who witnesses the ugly side of life at an age as young as 10. When she cries herself to sleep at night accepting that she is the culprit is the moment when you actually want to hug that child and tell her no you are not. You smile with her as she grows up to learn that everything that happens doesn’t happen because of her. Somewhere in those moments she falls in love with life and life loves her back. There are some wonderful lines in this book that refused to leave my mind long after I had finished reading it. Sharing some quotes from this book with you: Moving ahead the path might not clear, there might be bumps and potholes. But that path also IS the path that leads you to where you want to be and NOTHING should be the deterrent to it.

The road might not seem to be leading to anywhere but in the end it does lead to somewhere as we keep moving ahead in the journey of LIFE. *-‐*-‐*-‐* There's something about the never ending roads on highway. At one point they seem to be leading to nowhere and all of a sudden you reach a point where they lead to everywhere. That's how life is. Stuck one moment and running madly the other! *-‐*-‐*-‐* Sometimes walking on the un-‐trodden paths is necessary for you never know which one will lead to your destination! *-‐*-‐*-‐* Some roads lead to nowhere, yet we tread on them... Coz sometimes it’s important to just keep moving on rather than halt midway and feel lost! *-‐*-‐*-‐*-‐* It feels good at times to leave behind the known and tread on the unknown paths for the joy of finding something new is unmatched for! *-‐*-‐*-‐* It isn't about the grey skies it’s about the peeping sun, It isn't about the falling rain drops it’s about the smell of a soaked mother earth, It isn't about a bad beginning its about a happy ending! *-‐*-‐*-‐* A warm Monday morning where the fog has ensured you see only the things around you Nature has its own ways of telling you -‐ How important it is to concrete only on things around you, within your arms length and live in that present moments without worrying about what lies few metres ahead! *-‐*-‐*-‐* Sometimes in life you fall in love with some people – they teach you what love is. While there are some who fall in love with you – they teach you why to love.

And then there are some who make you fall in love with yourself -‐ they teach you how to love. This is a story of triumph and hope. One that would leave you with a smile by the time you finish the book. Recommended for people who enjoy reading such books. Genre: Fiction/ Drama Publishers: L.I.F.E Price: Available for free download HERE -‐Namrata An investment banker by profession and a child -‐ woman, a dreamer, a dancer, a bibliophile, an author, a poetess, a writer, a painter, a singer, a go-‐getter, a doer, an achiever by passion is how I would like to be described. Having spent close to three decades on this planet I am still very inquisitive about this enigma called LIFE though it is my biggest teacher and inspiration. http://www.privytrifles.com/

“Sometimes, you read a book and it fills you with this weird evangelical zeal, and you become convinced that the shattered world will never be put back together unless and until all living humans read the book.” ― John Green, The Fault in Our Stars

Crystal of the Month - Smoky Quartz

Smoky Quartz: Grounding the Self Solid support for stressful times is here at hand with Smoky Quartz. All quartz is healing and together with amethyst, rose quartz and clear quartz, smoky quartz is a valuable part of any collection. While clear quartz radiates and amplifies energy, smoky quartz is an expert at attracting pain, negativity and blockages away from the body into itself. It needs to be cleansed when used thus as it works quietly but very quickly at calming worries and lifting stress. Easily available, smoky quartz is a silicon dioxide (Si O2) mineral, and is naturally radiated (quartz) of a colour varying from translucent brown, to blackish hued dark brown or yellowing hued translucent stone. The darker varieties might be artificially radiated. Smoky quartz is above all a grounding stone par excellence. Here, it may be useful to quote Naisha Ahsian : “Like the smoke of a sage bundle, the energy of smoky quartz cleanses and clears the aura and energetic systems. It assists one in connecting to the earth and completing the electrical circuit between pone’s physical body and the planet. Without this completed circuit, one’s energy systems are very much like a high tension power line that has been snapped. Though there is plenty of energy available, there is nowhere for it to go. By grounding one completes the circuit, gives the excess energy a safe outlet and re-‐establishes a healthy energetic flow in the body” (The Book of Stones, Simmons & Ahsian, California:North Atlantic Books, 1998). Grounding is necessary for anyone who is a healer and also anyone who over uses the higher chakras of the logical and creative mind as well as psychic intuition. Ruby, garnet, black tourmaline, obsidian, smoky quartz are some of the many options available in the crystal world for this purpose and the stone must be chosen by intuiting. One size does not fit all in the crystal kingdom. Certain yogic postures involving balancing on one’s legs, tai chi, squats, lunges and pilates are also grounding, as is visualizing tree roots or being near them. Meditating with or placing Smoky Quartz near oneself should make one feel more centred, aware, balanced and calm. Smoky Quartz is not possibly a good

choice for increasing energy for athletic pursuits or increasing dynamism for outer activities. And yet, it helps fitness enthusiasts as a pain reliever for muscle cramps. It balances out the tendency to be too much in the head by drawing awareness within. It enhances discretion and judgement in physical and mental activities. Smoky Quartz is believed to be healing for the lower body especially for the abdomen, fungal infections, hips, legs, back pain, diseases of the kidneys and pancreas. It helps in the assimilation of minerals and fluid regulation. It is supposed to fortify the muscles and nerves. A lot of therapists claim that it is useful in counteracting the effects of radiotherapy (as in chemotherapy) and also of electromagnetic radiation at home. One’s own experience should guide the use of crystals as has been pointed out in these columns before. When the going gets tough, smoky quartz can lift pessimism and negativity and help one believe that the tough phase will pass. It is an excellent aid for stress and. building resilience. It helps us slow down, take stock of the situation and helps rid one’s aura of negativity and allows us to move ahead with a sense of calm power. -‐Namita Sethi Programming and cleansing crystals The repeating chemical structure of crystals is said to invest them with a kind of memory. This means that crystals have the power to hold energies. You may hold a quartz crystal with the intention of filling it with your love. This is what is meant by programming a crystal. You do not need any wires or a special connection with God -‐ all you need is intention and focus. The crystal will remember your love, which will then permeate any environment in which the crystal is placed. Crystals can remember negative as well as positive energies and so will sometimes need to be cleansed. For instance, an amethyst will actually help to cleanse a room of negative energies (eg. anger) but this means that the amethyst, which will retain an element of that negative energy, will itself occasionally require cleansing. -‐ See more at: http://www.holisticshop.co.uk/articles/introduction-‐guide-‐ crystals#sthash.26OFtGMD.dpuf

Thought for the Month

The theme we have this month is pretty enormous! There are lots of stories to tell in ones life.... It's difficult to pick or leave one and sometimes people are not comfortable sharing instances as well. But we humans always love to advise even if we ourselves don't follow it! Most of the times these advises come when the one speaking it first needs to implement on his/ her own self first! These are largely based on our experiences in life. As far as my story goes I have learnt some basics pretty late.... In fact still learning more on the same! I feel your life ends only when u stop learning. You are growing only when you are learning. This is where all our stories are made because each story in ones life is a life event from which we have learnt something.... Sometimes in ones own life sometimes from people's stories and so on.... I can't write stories on my life as they might take up a lot if space here and a lot of time of the ones reading it. But I will surely like to state some learnings which might help you in some way. I learnt to be free when I was caged; though I still cage myself when I am free! I learnt to relax when I was anxious; though I tend to get anxious when I relax! I learnt to move on when people wanted to hold me though I hold on to things when people move on! I learnt to love myself when people hated me and sometimes I hate myself when people love!

Contradictory statements but true ... It is applicable with all of us as we are all humans! We don't realise what we have until we lose it ... And even after realising we tend to forget it! This is a vicious circle and it's not easy to get rid of this! The only way to survive is to never stop learning and keep moving on.... This is what I learnt in my story of life till now! Love, Grace, Peace Neha Khanna

It is not enough to teach a man a speciality. Through it he may become a kind of useful machine but not a harmoniously developed personality. It is essential that the student acquire an understanding of and a lively feeling for values. He must acquire a vivid sense of the beautiful and of the morally good. Otherwise he – with his specialized knowledge – more closely resembles a well trained dog than a harmoniously developed person. He must learn to understand the motives of human beings, their illusions, and their sufferings in order to acquire a proper relationship to the individual fellow-‐men and to the community…Overemphasis on the competitive system and premature specialization on the ground of immediate usefulness kill the spirit on which all cultural life depends, specialized knowledge included. It is also vital to a valuable education that independent critical thinking be developed in the young human being, a development that is greatly jeopardized by overburdening him with too much and with too varied subjects. Overburdening necessarily leads to superficiality ~Albert Einstein

Beautiful Prayer - Krishna Mantra

Janamashtami is celebrated on the 8th day of the Lunar month of Shraavan with a lot of enthusiasm in India. It is the occasion of birth of Krishna, the incarnation of Vishnu (The preserving force of the Trinity). He is known by many names such as Gopal, Mohan, Govind, Hari, Jagannath, Keshava, Murlimanohar, Leeladhar, Giridhar and so on; each name depicting a different side of his enchanting and charming persona. Lord Krishna is perhaps the only God form who incarnated as a mischievous and playful persona. As a kid, he fought injustices in the society, as a teenager he fought mighty ruler Kansa to establish “Dharm” or a rule of righteousness in Mathura in India. The charming Krishna is famous for his Raas Leelas which are festivities of dance and enjoyment emphasizing that life is not meant to be so serious all the time, that enlightenment can be gained through mirth and playfulness as well. As a friend, philosopher and guide of Arjun and Pandavas, he helped them follow the path of justice and Dharm and eradicated injustice. That was the war of Mahabharat all about and Krishna was the landscape as well as the force with which the war was fought. For devotees, he is a benevolent and kind friend and guide. He is perhaps at the head of Bhakti movement. Millions of people and not just Hindus are his devotees. He is worshipped and revered in every part of India and the world in his myriad forms. On Janamashtami, his birth is celebrated by worshipping his child form. The meaning behind this is that every child is a Krishna and contains the Universe in his/her being. This festival is a celebration of the child within each being and of the God within each being. Hope you have a great Janamashtami this year and nurture and celebrate the child within you. Chanting The Mantra

Shree Krishna Sharnam Mamah

Chanting this mantra is a very peaceful experience and brings the devotee in touch with the lord. The mantra means “Hey Krishna, I come into your shelter (guidance)”. This year Janamashtami falls on Sunday, August 17 2014. With Grace and Light -‐Meetu Sehgal Meetu Sehgal, a Tarot Consultant and Holistic Healer, is an MBA from Delhi University. With more than 8 years of experience in Tarot Reading, she is known as a “Tarot Healer” for her in-‐depth tarot counseling sessions which are insightful as well as empowering. You can reach her at meetu.sehgal@gmail.com or www.divineinnovations.org She also teaches Osho Zen Tarot, Reiki and other holistic sciences.

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