OMTimes Magazine May B 2018 Edition by OMTimes Media

OMTIMES MAGAZINE MAY / ISSUE B 2018

CONTENTS 01

Dean Radin, Exclusive Interview: REAL MAGIC: Ancient Wisdom, Modern Science, and a Guide to the Secret Power of the Universe

11 signs You are in a Manipulative Relationship

When Someone Else’s Clutter Becomes YOUR Problem

04 05

Moroccan Tagine- An Inspired Vegetarian Recipe 2 Mantras to Heal Negative conditions: Anger

07 08 09 10

Ego--Our Survival Energy An Elevated State of Consciousness

How to Reform a Bully Dreams and the Why of Things

A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality. ~Yoko Ono

contents

OMTIMES MAGAZINE

Remedies For Treating A Sore Throat

Learning How to Embrace the Impossible

Remedies For Treating A Sore Throat

4 Steps to Reclaiming Your Self

10 simple things you can do to jump-start positive thinking

Integrating Our Fragmented Selves and Society

The Meaning of True Redemption

Railroad - Visual Journeys

MAY / ISSUE B 2018

Looking to connect with the Conscious Community? Let OMTimes point the way!

omtimes.com/advertise

May B 2018

Cover Story 24

Dean Radin - Real Magic

Health & Wellness 42

Best Remedies for Treating A Sore Throat

Spirituality 52 56

An Elevated State of Consciousness Self-Care with the Help of Your Unconscious

OM Living 64 68 72 80 86

Ego - Our Survival Energy When Someone Elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clutter Becomes YOUR Problem Railroad - Visual Journeys Moroccan Tagine - An Inspired Vegetarian Recipe 2 Mantras for Dealing with Anger

Relationships

96 How to Reform a Bully 100 11 Signs You Are In A Manipulative Relationship

Metaphysics

106 Dreams: The "Why" of Things 112 The Meaning of True Redemption

Personal Growth

118 4 Steps to Reclaiming Your Self 122 Learning How to Embrace the Impossible 126 10 Simple Things You Can Do To Jump-Start Positive Thinking

World Vision

134 Integrating Our Fragmented Selves and Society

Books

140 Real Magic

DEAN

RADIN

INTERVIEW BY SANDIE SEDGBEER

Science has been around for a few hundred years. Religion has been around for a few million years. And for most of that time, magic has been regarded as something that is both separate from them and unnatural. Yet, as history reveals, a belief in magic seems to have been deeply embedded in the human psyche since the beginning of recorded time. So, why is that? To some people, magic is harmless hokum. To others, it's evil. And for many self-respecting scientists in the 20th Century, it was a career killer and therefore anathema.

So, when a book emerges that is endorsed by two Nobel laureates, a President of the American Statistical Association and a Program Director from the National Science Foundation, one can't help but sit up, take notice and ask, is it time to start taking magic seriously? Dean Radin, Ph.D., is Chief Scientist at the Institute of Noetic Sciences and Associated Distinguished Professor of Integral and Transpersonal Psychology at the California Institute of Integral Studies. He's the author or co-author of hundreds of articles, book chapters and four popular books, The Conscious Universe, Entangled Minds, Super Normal and the recently published Real Magic: Ancient Wisdom, Modern Science, and a Guide to the Secret Power of the Universe.

“Within the magical worldview everything is deeply interconnected, so if you intend to harm others, you are likely to end up harming yourself.” Real Magic: Unlocking Your Natural Psychic Abilities to Create Everyday Miracles Sandie Sedgbeer: Now, you've been probing the far reaches of human consciousness, principally psi phenomena, using the tools and techniques of science for nearly four decades. Few scientists 40 years ago would have admitted an interest in magic let alone published a book on the subject. And yet, your latest book, Real Magic, carries endorsements from many distinguished names in the fields of science, medicine, and psychology. How did yesterday's sorcery become today's leading-edge science? Dean Radin: If you look at leading-edge science today, for those who are interested in consciousness, as a topic of study is relatively new within the past 30 years or so, for people interested in consciousness, the underlying puzzle has been to account for the experience just for simple selfawareness and experience. And the reason it's a puzzle is that we don't know something which doesn't appear to be a physical effect or experience doesn't have correlates in the brain, neuro correlates, but we don't see how experience can arise simply from matter and energy. Because of that, there's a growing number of scientists in many domains, and philosophers who are beginning to suspect that there's something about consciousness that might simply be woven into the fabric of reality. And that's immediately going to lead us into the esoteric traditions. Since I've been studying phenomena that already give us a clue about what consciousness can do, mainly psychic and mystical experiences. OMTIMES | MAY 2018

Real Magic O M T I M E S

M A Y

2 0 1 8

“One of the consequences of taking this inner perspective is that the idea of magic transforms from an impossible fantasy into an aspect of Nature that we can begin to study. From this stance, terms such as paranormal and supernatural are seen as quaint and antediluvian, similar to how modern medicine no longer needs the concept of “bad humors” when discussing the origins of disease.” ― Dean Radin, Real Magic: Unlocking Your Natural Psychic Abilities to Create Everyday Miracles

OMTIMES | MAY 2018

"The new discipline will be the study of the psychophysical nature of reality, that mysterious, interstitial space shimmering between mind and matter." Dean Radin

I decided to look at the esoteric literature, as well and discovered to my surprise that the psychic experiences that I've been studying are essentially the same as what has traditionally been called magic. So, two years ago, before I started writing my book Real Magic, I probably would have said, no, I'm not studying magic at all, that's just ancient superstition. Today, I'm not so sure, especially after spending a year looking in some detail at what the esoteric traditions were actually saying about these kinds of phenomena. Sandie Sedgbeer: Well, it's interesting, isn't it, because as you reveal in your book, there is so much material available on magic. Many of the ancient, the old books, the Eliphas Levi, you know, Aleister Crowley, Dion Fortune, all of those. I read those many years ago, and were you surprised by how much is out there?

Dean Radin: Well, it's not only that there's a vast literature on what might be thought of as a popular level, but in the scholarly domain, I was just amazed at how many historians, anthropologists, historians of religion, religious scholars have written probably hundreds of thousands of books about magic. The reason is that it's deeply entwined in our understanding of religion and in our understanding of science and in history and in politics, almost everything you can think of at some point is related to what people thought of as magic. As a scientist, I've been particularly interested in seeing that what we today reject as magic at one time was all we knew. The word magic was basically the only term that we had to try to describe the way the world worked. Some elements of supernatural magic, which had to do with divine concepts, eventually became natural magic. Natural magic became alchemy, astrology, and the herbalism. Those elements of natural magic are now part of mainstream science. What's interesting is that other elements almost became natural magic and that all had to do with consciousness. OMTIMES MAGAZINE

MAY 2018

“The Universe looks less like a big machine than a big thought.” ― Dean Radin Sandie Sedgbeer: You say that real magic as opposed to the magic that's performed on stage, slight of hand, etc., real magic falls into three categories or types. Tell us what they are. Dean Radin: So, one type is divination. The typical, stereotypical image is mirror gazing or crystal ball gazing or tarot cards, that sort of thing. A second class I call the force of will, which is about manifesting your desires. And the third is called theurgy, which is communicating with spirits or getting spirits to do something on your behalf. So, that's a whole range of different kinds of magical practices basically fall into those three categories. So, interestingly, in divination, in modern language, we would say that it involves clairvoyance and precognition. That's what divination was about. The force of will is what we would call either mind-matter interactions or psychokinesis.

And theurgy would fall into a class of studies on mediumship, near death experience, out of body experience and so on. These ancient practices have been studied scientifically, but the connection with what we do in the laboratory with these ancient practices has more or less been ignored. Sandie Sedgbeer: You've said that it's the ancient wisdom, a lot of the esoteric traditions where we will find clues about the next big advancements in science. Can you explain that to me? Dean Radin: So, if you try to do a synthesis of the esoteric traditions regarding their cosmology, their worldview, you can get lost in the differences between saying hermeticism and Neoplatonism where the Kabbalah and what the Rosicrucian said. There are differences.

The water you use is But, if you start looking at the similarities to find out what's common, you do find a commonalityConsciousness. It's been called the Perennial Philosophy, and ultimately, it says that consciousness is fundamental. Interestingly, you find the same thing in the Eastern esoteric traditions. So, both Eastern and Western traditions, in fact, all the way back to Shamanism, you will find what amounts to the same notion, that somehow consciousness is a fundamental aspect of reality. That's relevant then to scientific understanding because it requires a change to our scientific worldview because science does not actually consider consciousness to be fundamental at all. It considers it to be an emergent property of brain activity.

OMTIMES | MAY 2018

If you think the worldview of science as a way of chopping up the world into different categories, which is how we do in the academic world, then from a science perspective, physics would be at the bottom, and then we have chemistry above that and biology and then psychology and so on. Somewhere near the top of that hierarchy is where science currently imagines consciousness to arise. What the esoteric traditions say is that that view, that worldview is actually not correct. Instead, that below physics, there's another layer, and that other layer is consciousness. So, from consciousness emerges the physical world and from there emerges chemistry and there emerges biology and so on. So, if this more expansive view is correct, it wouldn't change any of our science at all.

REAL MAGIC: UNLOCKING YOUR NATURAL PSYCHIC ABILITIES TO CREATE EVERYDAY MIRACLE

This is one of the fears I often hear, that my colleagues in the academic world will say, well, we'd have to throw away our textbooks. If magic is real, everything goes away. And I say, no, everything stays exactly the same. All that we're doing is adding on a new underlying assumption. From that new assumption, then phenomena that are normally thought of as anomalies, like psychic phenomena is an anomaly from a scientific perspective, well, then it's no longer an anomaly. It would be expected to occur because consciousness is before the physical world, meaning it's before space and time, which means that consciousness should be able to perceive through what we see as time because it's before time. So, in this one stroke basically, you take the esoteric traditions and say, well, what if that were true, how do we fit it into the rest of science. And it turns out that it solves a lot of problems very quickly. We still don't know and don't understand at this point how do you get from consciousness into the physical world, but as I was saying, that's kind of the leading edge today in science.

“BUT MAGIC DOESN’T MEAN “NO CAUSE.” IT JUST MEANS THAT WE HAVEN’T YET DEVELOPED SCIENTIFICALLY ACCEPTABLE THEORIES TO EXPLAIN THESE EFFECTS.” ― DEAN RADIN A lot of scientists are working in quantum information science and at the edges of mathematics and the edges of physics. Well, that's starting to sound more and more like consciousness really is fundamental.

Dean Radin: No, it was no specific incident. It was a matter of curiosity, I think, that was sparked by reading all those stories and no different than children who read Harry Potter. Some of them are going to think, I wonder if that's true, could it possibly be true. And the ones who retain their curiosity as they become adults might be more inclined to start looking at the esoteric literature or getting interested in parapsychology like I did. Sandie Sedgbeer: Your original career track was as a concert violinist, and then you shifted into science after you got an electrical engineering degree, and then you were into physics and studied psychology. How did you end up studying consciousness?

Dean Radin: I think I've always been interested in consciousness. Some of that was probably sparked by Sandie Sedgbeer: As a child, you said that you read everything you could find on mythology and playing the violin in that, on my music stand for 20 years, fairy tales and folklore and Eastern philosophy and psychology, which eventually turned into an the top of the music stand, I interest in psi phenomena. Was that progression had a phrase that said learn to listen. So, for a violinist, for you, or was there a specific incident that learning to listen is all about sparked your interest in parapsychology? intonation. OMTIMES | MAY 2018

But, after a couple of years, you don't need to think about that consciously much anymore. You either have it, or you don't, and I was pretty good at it. To learn to listen was a subliminal message pointing at me for 20 years, and it ends up being kind of a meditative state. Listen to everything including your own mind. Something like that may have sparked my interest in things about the mind and consciousness. Sandie Sedgbeer: You have synesthesia, and I've met a few people with It. Many of them work in the spiritual arena now. Did you find that your synesthesia has helped or hindered your work? Did that increase your intuition in some way? Did it enhance it in some way? Dean Radin: I didn't know that there was such a thing as synesthesia for many years until somebody gave it a name. I imagine that people would tune their instruments by color because that's how I experienced the sound and the tones. I found it generally not to be a problem except if somebody was playing or singing off key. Then it was not pleasant at all because the colors weren't right. It became muddy and off-color. And of course, the sound wasn't right, either. So, it makes it difficult sometimes to listen to people who think they can sing or play. It probably offered a different way of perceiving the world. Sandie Sedgbeer: Would you just, you know, give us a brief rundown of that instance of synchronicity which you relate in your book that had those four elements to it?

Dean Radin: So, it's four-part synchronicity, any one of which would probably be considered interesting. But, it's the combination of them that starts to look very strange. So, the first synchronicity is--this was early in the year 2000, and I was living in Silicon Valley, and this was when the dot-com craze was happening. So, everybody was getting offices, and there weren't very many around, and the ones that around were very expensive. So, we were looking all over the place because we were establishing a non-profit institute, and we needed offices. So, we eventually found a place in Los Altos, which is a suburb of Silicon Valley, and it was in a strip mall kind of place where most of the other people were in real estate or dentists and that sort of professional level. So, we found an office. We decided to get it, so we got it. A couple of weeks after we got it, I decided to walk to work to this new office in a different way, and I passed a sign that gave a list of the people who were in the place. I looked at the list, and I saw that one of the companies there was called Psi Quest, Inc., P-S-I Quest, Inc. And of course, we were doing psi research. P-S-I is a short-term for psychic. And we weren't calling ourselves that. We were called The Boundary Institute. But, there was somebody else doing Psi Quest. We didn't know what that meant. We figured maybe it was Personnel Services Incorporated or something like that. But, we thought, okay, there's funny synchronicity that we're doing psi research, and there's somebody else here who's doing psi quest.

The second synchronicity is I decided to walk a different way to the office again, and I passed the office next to ours, which I hadn't really looked at before. But, I noticed a little sign on the door that said Psi Quest Research Labs. And now this became much more interesting because what would personnel services be doing in a research lab. And it's right next to us. I got curious, of course, and I tried to see through the mini blinds that were closed to introduce myself and find out what are they doing. Well, there was nobody there. So, every day for about a month, as I walked to work, I'd pass that, and I looked in to see if there was someone there. Finally, I did see movement through the mini blinds. I knocked on the door, and I said--the door opened. A man was opening the door. I said, hello, my name is--and before I could say my name, he looked at me with a look of shock and said, Dean Radin? I didn't know how he knew my name. I was a little concerned because he looked very startled, to the point of almost like a shock. And so, I didn't quite know what to do. Well, so that synchronicity is that he was engaged in practice to try to manifest me. He was trying to make me appear or to contact him in some way. He would be completely shocked because he was trying to make me show up, and there I was. I opened the door. So, as it turns out, this guy was a former Apple employee who had done quite well and cashed out and did what he always wanted to do, which was psi research, exactly like what we were doing.

OMTIMES | MAY 2018

I got curious, of course, and I tried to see through the mini blinds that were closed to introduce myself and find out what are they doing. Well, there was nobody there. So, every day for about a month, as I walked to work, I'd pass that, and I looked in to see if there was someone there. Finally, I did see movement through the mini blinds. I knocked on the door, and I said--the door opened. A man was opening the door. I said, hello, my name is--and before I could say my name, he looked at me with a look of shock and said, Dean Radin? I didn't know how he knew my name. I was a little concerned because he looked very startled, to the point of almost like a shock. And so, I didn't quite know what to do. Well, so that synchronicity is that he was engaged in practice to try to manifest me. He was trying to make me appear or to contact him in some way. He would be completely shocked because he was trying to make me show up, and there I was. I opened the door. So, as it turns out, this guy was a former Apple employee who had done quite well and cashed out and did what he always wanted to do, which was psi research, exactly like what we were doing.

Well, this is now major synchronicity because not only is he right next door to us but that my colleagues and I pretty much know everybody in the world who's doing this kind of research.

Sandie Sedgbeer: Were you manifesting each other, which one started it? It raises all kinds of questions. And of course, you say that the practical foundations of real magic are attention and intention.

It's a small community. And yet, here's somebody we had never heard of doing the same research with a laboratory right next door to where we ended up. So, this is very strange.

Dean Radin: It's just not intention and attention, but it's doing that with very high levels of motivation and not in an ordinary state of awareness. So, an ordinary state of awareness, you can get small effects. We see those in the laboratory. For big effects, it takes what a magician would call being in the state of hypnosis or Yogi would say being in a state of samadhi. These are very deep states of consciousness.

Sandie Sedgbeer: Well, there's another piece to that, isn't there, where your intention also came into play? Dean Radin: So, the third synchronicity is that the person who opened the door, his name was John. He was doing a magical practice, sort of a Tibetan yoga practice where you manifest things that you want. Well, as I said, he was manifesting me, which made me feel disoriented because I think I have free will, but apparently, not as free as I thought I did. The last synchronicity is that he finally, when he settled down, I asked him, well, what do you do here. So, he brought me back to his laboratory in the back room, and he had had a special kind of shielded room and a certain chair in it and various kinds of equipment. And I was stunned to see this because then I said: you have to come over to my office. We went over to my office, which is on the other side of the wall from where we had just been. On the whiteboard, I was drawing the shielded room and the special chair and the various kinds of equipment because I had been spending the previous month in my office drawing on a whiteboard what I wanted to manifest. Unbeknownst to me, it was on the other side of the wall. So, he manifested me, and I manifested the equipment that I wanted. And this was so startling to both of us that we then, of course, I told my colleagues about this, and we were all kind of stunned.

John was doing a dream yoga technique, so part of his intention was in the dream state, not in the ordinary state at all. And what I was doing was somewhat in an ordinary state, but a lot of it was contemplative. It was like walking meditation and very strong imagination. I was imagining what I wanted and drawing it, as well. And so, this is relevant to the notion of spellcasting in magic, especially the idea of drawing, that when you, one method of magical practice is to draw literally like painting or sketching something that you want. But, it has a second meaning. You draw the thing you want, but it draws it to you. It's like pulling it to you. By the same token, spell casting has two meanings of the word spell. So, spell in a magical sense is you cast something out into the world, and you hope you can grab it like a fish. But, when you spell something like spell a word like cat, C-A-T is a symbol standing for the thing that you want. So, if you spell something as in what's called writing magic, you are creating a symbol for the thing that you want at the same time you're casting a spell. So, these are various ways of manipulating intention and attention. And it's true that something about those two elements of consciousness seems to push the world around in such a way to make it more likely that you'll get what you want.

OMTIMES | MAY 2018

O MT I ME S

| MA Y 2 0 1 8

O MT I ME S

| MA Y 2 0 1 8

www.deanradin.org

O MT I ME S

| MA Y 2 0 1 8

Health & Wellness

Innovative new approaches to Healing as well as holistic methods for dealing with health issues and personal growth

Best Remedies for Treating A Sore Throat

Most sore throats are caused by viral or bacterial infections. Allergies, asthma, cigarette smoke, and pollutants are some other culprits. Sore throats respond well to bed rest,

Omtimes.com

gargling with warm salt water 3-4 times a day, Vitamin A, C, bioflavonoids, and zinc. A sore throat is sometimes a symptom of a more serious condition distinct from the common cold (such as strep throat) that may require medical diagnosis and treatment with appropriate antibiotics. If you do take antibiotics, remember to take acidophilus along with them or after your complete course to maintain normal intestinal flora. Best Remedies Add a teaspoon of sea salt (not-iodized salt) to 8 ounces of warm water. Stir it well to dissolve and then gargle and spit the water out. Gargle until all the water is gone. Do this 3-4 times per day. Drinking warm liquids (such as caffeine-free tea, water with honey, or warm soup broth). Using a humidifier to moisten dry air is important. If a sore throat is caused by infection, it is important to

drink plenty of fluids and to rest to prevent dehydration and to allow your body to properly recover. Baking Soda and Sea Salt: The National Cancer Institute recommends gargling and gently swishing a combination of 1 cup warm water, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt. They recommend using the rinse every three hours as needed. Marshmallow root contains a mucus-like substance that coats and soothes a sore throat. Simply add some of the dried root to a cup of boiling water to make tea. Sipping the tea two to three times a day may help ease throat pain. Licorice root has long been used to treat sore throats. Recent research shows itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s effective when mixed with water to create a solution for gargling. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid this remedy, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

Omtimes.com

Apple cider vinegar has many natural antibacterial uses. Numerous studies show its antimicrobial effects in fighting infections. Because of its acidic nature, it can be used to help break down mucus in the throat and stop bacteria from spreading. If you sense a sore throat coming on, try diluting 1 to 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in one cup of water and gargle with it. Then take a small sip of the mixture and repeat the whole process one to two times per hour. Make sure to drink lots of water in between the gargling sessions. Herbal Tea Recipes In a stainless-steel pot, boil desired amount of distilled water. The moment it boils turn the heat off. Add the following herbs in an infuser, muslin bag or tea ball for a single cup or add one-three teaspoons of herbs per cup for larger amounts. Allow the herbs to infuse for up to 5 minutes. Drink 3-4 cups a day. For flavor-add lemon and sweeten with Stevia or organic honey. Cough/Cold Tea – Blended to feed and nourish the body

Omtimes.com

during cold and flu season. This healing tea cleanses with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties. Add a teaspoon each of two to four herbs such as Echinacea Purpurea, Echinacea Angustifolia, Mullen, Catnip, Goldenseal Leaf, Parsley, Fo-Ti, Comfrey, Spearmint, Uta Seed. Calm Tea – Reduces stress and helps to relax you. Improves circulation and acts as a sedative. Reduces mucous from colds, muscle, and menstrual cramps and helps with anxiety and stress. Add a teaspoon each of two to four herbs such as Chamomile, Rosehips, Catnip, Alfalfa, Skullcap, Fo-Ti, Hops, Vervain, Wild Lettuce, Passion Flower, Lemon Verbena. Lemon Tea – This tea helps fight infection, cools fever, tones tissue, softens and soothes skin. Promotes bowel movements and increases urination. Lowers both blood sugar and blood pressure. Stimulates immunity. Add a teaspoon each of two to four herbs such as Lemon peel, Lemon Grass, Ginger Oil, Shavegrass, Osawatomie, Sweetleaf.

Herbal Tinctures Herbal tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts of the medicinal properties of herbs. Tinctures represent one of many different ways to prepare and use herbs. The terms tincture and extract are often used interchangeably. Technically these terms are an indication of strength used by manufactures. We make most tinctures in an alcohol base as this makes them the most long-lasting, but tinctures can also be made with glycerine, vinegar or even with honey to make syrup! To make a tincture, you will need the following supplies: ~ A clean glass jar (at least pint size) with lid and (preferably dark glass bottle) ~ Consumable alcohol like vodka or rum â&#x20AC;&#x201C; at least 80 proofs (or apple cider vinegar or food grade vegetable glycerine) ~ Herbs of choice Herbs can play a role in longterm attempts to strengthen

the immune system and fight infections. Adaptogens, which include eleuthero (Siberian ginseng), Asian ginseng, Astragalus, Echinacea/ Goldenseal, Garlic Slippery Elm Bark and Schizandra are thought to help keep various body systems, including the immune system, functioning optimally. Another immune stimulant, Boneset, helps fight off minor viral infections, such as the common cold. Fill the jar 1/3 to 1/2 full of dried herbs. Filling half full will make a stronger tincture. Do not pack down. Pour boiling water to just dampen all of the herbs. (This step is optional but helps to draw out the beneficial properties of the herbs) Fill the rest of the jar (or the entire jar if not using hot water too) with alcohol and stir with a clean spoon. Put the lid on the jar. Store the jar in a cool/dry place, shaking daily, for at least three weeks and up to six months. (I usually leave herbs for six weeks)

Omtimes.com

Strain through cheesecloth and compost the herbs. Store the tincture in colored dropper bottles or clean glass jars. Shake the tincture bottle well. As a dietary supplement, place 1/3 of a dropper (6-12 drops) under the tongue, or in juice or water as needed, 3-4 times a day. Aromatherapy Remedies Essential oils can soothe a sore throat, ease pain and inflammation. A gargle of warm water and 4-6 drops of tea tree oil help fight infection. You can benefit from essential oils such as Tea Tree, Lavender, Bergamot, Geranium, Eucalyptus and Clary Sage. Utilize these blends of essential oils 3 times a day, morning, afternoon and night. Homeopathic Remedies This medical system uses infinitesimal doses of natural substances to stimulate a person’s immune system and body’s natural defenses. Homeopathic remedies are named for the plant or animal

Omtimes.com

ingredients they are made from. Homeopathy not only offers relief from temporary disorders but, can provide longterm healing of a person due to its individual and “holistic” approach. This often leads to a complete recovery from the dis-ease, as well as, providing an improved understanding of the patient’s situation. This type of healing makes it easier and possible to avoid recurrence or relapses in the future and, homeopathy stimulates the body’s natural defense system by reestablishing normal immune system and cell functioning. Arsenicum album: A person who has frequent colds, sore throats, and chest problems with burning pain and feelings of weakness, restlessness, and anxiety may benefit from this remedy. The person’s head may feel hot while the rest of the body is cold, and problems can be worse near midnight. The nose often feels stopped up, and the person may repeatedly sneeze, without relief. White, think, burning mucus may be produced.

Nux vomica: Colds with a stuffy head at night and runny nose in the daytime, rough throat, harsh cough, and chilliness suggest a need for this remedy. A person who needs Nux vomica is usually very irritable, impatient, and sensitive to odors, sounds, and light. Rhus Toxicodendron: If a cold begins with stiffness and body aches, especially during cool damp weather or weather changes, and leads to nasal congestion or a sore throat, this remedy should come to mind. The person feels extremely restless and often paces or fidget. Warmth and motion bring relief, both physically and mentally. Traditional Chinese Medicine This is probably the FIRST remedy I reach for when I have a sore throat! â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yin Chiaoâ&#x20AC;? is my favorite pick for cold and flu symptoms! A great natural alternative for temporary cold and flu symptoms such as minor aches and pains, headache, runny nose and sneezing. This ancient Chinese classic formula

helps with an acute sore throat from cold or flu. Helps with frontal headaches from a common cold and helps a cough with yellow sputum. A wonderful remedy to always have in your herbal medicine cabinet. Use for the first day or two of a wind-heat attack (cold, esp with a sore throat), exhibiting toxic heat symptoms (flu). The main discomforts are swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, aching body, fever with chills, headache, sore shoulders, stiff neck. Promotes sweating. Excellent when taken immediately. Also useful for skin itching due to wind-heat, and allergenic skin reactions (hives). In traditional Chinese medicine, the loquat leaf has been used to help keep lungs clear. Loquat and slippery elm bark syrup are a fantastic combination of two very effective herbs blended in a honey base that is extremely good at treating sore throats. The loquat tree produces the loquat leaf and the loquat fruit, both known by their Latin name Eriobotrya japonica. Standard viruses are subject to the power

Omtimes.com

of the loquat leaf. Evidence suggests that the loquat leaf produces a variety of acids that have an antiviral effect. These acids produce antigens, which are antiviral agents. Two of these chemicals are called megastigmane glycosides and polyphenolic constituents, both of which are known to produce viral antigens. Furthermore, the triterpene chemicals may help reduce rhinovirus or the common cold. Slippery Elm Bark, or Ulmus rubra, is known for its dark brown to reddish brown bark. When peeled off, its slimy, red inner bark from twigs and branches are used as a remedy for many common ailments like fevers, wounds, and sore throats. When the bark is mixed with water, it becomes this sticky material known as mucilage, which is therapeutic and soothing to anything it touches. When to See A Doctor If there is suspicion of strep throat, for example, most often your health care professional will perform a throat swab to run a rapid antigen detection test (rapid strep test). Results for this test take only minutes Omtimes.com

and can generally be obtained during your visit. A throat culture may be sent to the lab for definitive evaluation of strep throat if the initial rapid strep test is negative, and these results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours. Usually, no further testing is necessary, but depending on the details of your history and the findings on your physical exam, your healthcare professional may need to obtain further testing to help determine the cause of your sore throat. Blood tests may be ordered, and radiologic imaging (a CT scan, for example) of the throat and neck area may also be necessary to evaluate for other various causes of a sore throat (abscess, trauma/injury, tumor, STD). In certain cases, you may be referred to a specialist depending on your symptoms and presumptive diagnosis. Andrew Pacholyk MS L.Ac Peacefulmind.com â&#x20AC;&#x153;Living life, consciouslyâ&#x20AC;? Therapies for healing mind body spirit

Conscious Dating Makes all The Difference

"Real Spiritual Love " ASCENDIGHEARTS.COM

Simply Spiritual To perceive reality from a different perspective is to open oneself to the wonders and unlimited wealth of creation. Simply Spiritual offers the opportunity to visit new places, new methods, and different ways to perceive the vast human knowledge of our Universe.

An Elevated State of Consciousness By Isha Judd

Elevated states of consciousness are not only for “special people” who dedicate their lives to meditating on a mountaintop or in a monastery. They are possible for all human

Omtimes.com

beings and make us more present in our daily activities.Â We can choose how to be in every moment, we can choose love and happiness, bringing the spiritual into our daily activities, to totally transform our human experience. We believe that an elevated state of consciousness is for â&#x20AC;&#x153;specialâ&#x20AC;? people such as the Buddha or Jesus, and is beyond our human capacity. But what if Buddha and Jesus were demonstrating a very real potential, something that is possible for all human beings? The experience of love in everything is a reality, but we have forgotten it. As we expand our consciousness, we see that our heart is continually yearning for more and more love-consciousness. An elevated consciousness never compromises its own greatness. And this does not come from an arrogant place. When one is in a high state of consciousness they are always completely real, they do not hide behind a mask of false modesty.

They do not compromise with their truth, playing small so that others do not feel bad. Arrogance is the abandonment of oneself, it is God playing small, it is God being a victim and not taking responsibility for his creations. Arrogance is the most magnificent creatures on the planet destroying themselves without respite. It is the adoption of masks in the form of judgments, political and religious opinions and false piety. Arrogance is humans condemning each other for their color, religion or sexuality. Consciousness is the love of oneself, it has nothing to do with arrogance. We have been taught that loving ourselves is selfish, but if we do not experience unconditional love for ourselves, we cannot give that to the rest of humanity. We often think that raising our consciousness will lead us to a state of zero emotionality, but it is not so. When consciousness expands, we feel each emotion fully, like a child. A high state of consciousness

Omtimes.com

is not a state of disconnection from reality, on the contrary, we are more anchored than ever in life. When we transcend the fears of the mind, we embrace life with freedom and joy. We become more present, not less. If we want to have a happy life, we must infiltrate our daily activities with the spiritual. The material realm and consciousness are two sides of the same coin. Am I productive? Am I giving? Am I conscious? Those are the questions we must ask. In every moment, I must be present choosing what I am going to be. Will I be loving? Will I be happy? There must be spirituality in the workplace and awareness in schools. What am I being? Am I conscious? Am I aware of the environment? Am I aware of others? It is not about going away to meditate alone on top of a mountain, consciousness is in every moment. Am I giving my best? Am I letting go of my stress or am I taking it home?

Omtimes.com

What am I being? My teachers and I run the Isha centers and my teachers live in the moment, they give, they love, they are happy, they are excellent, they are enjoying what they do. We are all united and giving our best in every moment, and this is how life should be, in large companies, in schools, in the streets, in the home, and in the world. Isha Judd is an Australian humanitarian, spiritual teacher based in Latin America, author of “Love Has Wings” and “Why Walk When You Can Fly?”. Watch “Why Walk When You Can Fly?” on iTunes. Her website is www. ishajudd.com. Watch more movies and inspiring videos at isha.tv Follow Isha Judd on Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/officialishajudd For more information on events with Isha Judd visit: Events with Isha Judd

Imagine yourselfâ&#x20AC;Ś driven from your home by war, broken lives floating on a Sea of Troubles, your simple prayer to find Kind Hearts, Kind Hands to help you on your journey.

Be the answer to a prayer.

Humanity Healing Syrian Refugee Relief Please Donate Here humanityhealing.org

Self-Care with the Help of Your Unconscious by Carl Greer, PhD, PsyD

If you are feeling worn out, you might know you should relax, reduce your stressors, and get to bed earlier. So why donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t you do any of that? When you most need restoration, you once again find yourself wasting time with distractions: You mindlessly check mobile devices or watch TV. But what if you could replenish yourself and engage in self-care with the help of your unconscious? Omtimes.com

The key to changing your habits and feeling energized again may be to release emotions and beliefs that are no longer serving you. Letting go of the old can make room to bring in something new that will give you enthusiasm, hope, and motivation. Your energy might shift dramatically and lead to a feeling of revitalization as you begin a transformation process your unconscious is yearning for. When you ignore callings from within, you can start to feel bored, listless, and tired out. Your conscious mind may be ignoring a need to grieve or feel anger, or face the truth about your role in being overworked and too pressured. Not realizing this, you might seek distractions that ultimately leave you feeling even more drained. Self-care activities require time. You must replenish yourself emotionally, releasing what is no longer serving you and bringing in what will make you feel joyful and vitalized. What if your unconscious could help you transform aspects of your life that are seemingly impossible to change? What if you let go

of the denial that is keeping you from accessing the truth about what you need to do differently? You may be avoiding rest because the desire to radically change the story of your life is so intense and unsettling that you are keeping it hidden in your unconscious. You may think your opportunities are limited, but what if you are wrong, and your real problem is your fear of stepping out of your comfort zone? Unleashing the truth may free up energy from the unconscious mind that can restore and revitalize you. The unconscious can speak its wisdom to you and help you break through obstacles to change. When you reduce the intense chatter of the busy conscious mind, and sit alone quietly in meditation, you make space for wisdom and insights to arise. They come through symbols, sensations, and a feeling of knowing that canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessarily be explained logically. Your unconscious mind can help you shift energetically, releasing emotions and beliefs that no longer serve you and allowing peace and healing Omtimes.com

wisdom to replace them. Reduce your distractions and take time to simply be present in a place that doesn’t make demands on your attention—a spot in nature or in your home, away from stimulation and distractions. Close your eyes and intend to begin clearing the clutter in your life that has kept you from replenishing yourself. Ask Spirit or God to be your ally as you access the wisdom within. Focus on your breath, or a word, or the sound of birds and the wind. Let emotions arise and flow out of you. Let your unconscious communicate to you in sensations or symbols or words. Remain present, letting go of what you no longer want to hold on to. Pose the silent question, “What do I need to know to feel replenished?” Be patient as you wait for the answer to arise. When you feel ready, ask, “What should I release?” The answer may not be completely clear, but your unconscious knows you are opening up to its wisdom and is likely to answer your call. In your mind’s eye, you may see what you Omtimes.com

need to let go of. An internal voice may say, “Take away the noise that distracts you.” Your understanding of that noise may come to the surface of your awareness. Then, let your unconscious mind bring in the healing knowledge and energy you need by asking, “What should I bring in?” Your knowledge about what you need to do differently can become clearer, and you may feel an energetic shift as you make the exchange of old for new, of what no longer serves for what you most need right now. Even if words or symbols don’t appear, notice how it feels to be open to the possibility of healing and transformation. Pay attention to how you feel and to any insights that arise. Be patient, and if distractions appear, draw your attention back to the task at hand: opening up to inner resources, guided by Spirit. Be welcoming to the power of your unconscious to restore you and lead you to healing and transformation. When you intuit that it is time

to end this exercise, open your eyes. If symbols appeared, let them suggest their meaning to you. Use this technique more than once, being open to more layers being peeled back. In ten minutes here and twenty there, you can begin to replenish yourself with the help of your unconscious. You can also use other tools, such as Jungian and shamanic techniques found in my book Change Your Story, Change Your Life, to open up a channel for communication from your unconscious. Work with a therapist if you feel too unsettled and upset, but know that for most people, a slow and gentle opening to what you know deep inside opens up a path to positive transformation. Longings may surface that make you feel scared yet excited as you realize you can let go of the old and bring in the new. Your unconscious wants you to say no to “I can’t” and “It’s too late” and to say yes to “There are ways I can change my life.” Tune in and listen to it. What will you release? It may be tasks and commitments, extra possessions that weigh you

down, memories of failure, or beliefs about your inadequacy. What will you bring in? It could be a commitment to new habits, a sense of entitlement to get more rest, or a belief that opportunities will arise even if you aren’t working nonstop. Sadness about lost opportunities can become replaced with curiosity about what new ones may appear. Beliefs that it’s too late to change may be switched out for beliefs that something better is ahead—that is, if you follow through with action. Use your newfound energy to look for new opportunities, change your routine, and talk through your options with a friend or a therapist. Set goals big and small, and take steps to transform. Continue consulting your unconscious, and see how your life begins to change after you have replenished yourself by engaging in self-care with the help of your unconscious. Carl Greer, PhD, PsyD, is a practicing clinical psychologist, Jungian analyst and shamanic practitioner. He teaches at the C.G. Jung Institute of Chicago and is on staff at the Replogle Center for Counseling and Well-Being. Learn more at CarlGreer.com. Omtimes.com

OMTimes Magazine Relax… Let your worries drift away into the moment… OMTimes is a free publication and can be delivered right to your inbox… Subscribe at: Free OMTimes Subscription Visit our website at: www.omtimes.com

OM Living For those living a more Conscious Lifestyle

Ego-Our Survival Energy By Dr. Nickolas Martin

Our ego plays an extremely important role in our lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; survival. Its single purpose is to ensure our daily and mortal survival. Unlike what has often been written or said, it can exert a positive, as well as the negative impact on our lives, including the connection Omtimes.com

between our humanity and Divinity. Understanding its true purpose and potential for good can allow us to fully live and experience the best of what we and life have to offerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;humanly and spiritually. There has been much written

about ego over the years by many intelligent, well-educated and well-intended people. Most of what has been said cast ego in a dark and negative light. It is often presented as the part of us which can only lead us into no good and becoming a lesser, if not worst, version of ourselves. A part that can only lead us toward making bad choices, being with the wrong people and for some in the spiritual community—rejecting God. There is some truth to all of this because whenever our ego energy is imbalanced in its power, flexibility, or vulnerability, bad things and suffering often do occur in our lives. We can think of many examples of unpleasant or destructive things which happen to oneself or others when ego energy is unhealthy. But surprisingly and ironically all of that is about trying to promote our daily and mortal survival, which most would generally agree is a good thing. Our ego is “trying” to help us survive in ways that often result in some stupid, crazy or dysfunctional ways that we come up with, but it is still about survival. However, there is one important distinction. We—not ego—make the choices in the ways we are surviving and

whether we are going to merely exist or fully live. That is where ego’s purpose ends, and we begin. And one of the really big choices we must make is seeing the ego energy that is shaping who we are being. You are the real difference between a life of just existing, and often suffering, and one of truly living. And whether you get the best out of what you and life have to offer. The good news about ego is that it can promote some really healthy survival called living when it is in balance. It can play a role in promoting healthy thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and physiology we can use in our daily life while experiencing a wonderful life journey. Relationships are enhanced, achievement is optimized, minds are enriched, change is understood, failure is conquered, genuine happiness is recognized, stress is eliminated, and conflict is resolved when ego energy is healthy and doing its thing. All of this is happening in our daily lives when we are truly living, and healthy ego energy contributes to making this possible. Beyond the service to our humanity and life which ego can bring forth when it is healthy, Omtimes.com

there is the impact on our spirituality and Divinity. Spiritual writers and speakers have often castigated ego by describing it as a force that can only work against our spirituality and relationship with God. This can appear to be occurring when our ego energy is imbalanced, and people think it is acting with an intention and purpose that it actually doesn’t possess—we do. People with higher ego power may indulge in illusions in which they believe there is no God, there is no need for God in their life, or that they are greater than God. People with lower ego flexibility may embrace extremist religious views which espouse intolerant and rejecting views of “nonbelievers.” In neither case did ego play a direct role in forming these thoughts. Because ego doesn’t have an intellect, it doesn’t have an intentional capacity, and it doesn’t have an awareness of God. It is the thinker of the above-mentioned thoughts, not ego, who owns them and who is opposing God, even though they often don’t realize it. The extremist isn’t serving God, though they often think they are, they are serving themselves! What ego can “do” when it is healthy and balanced is allow Omtimes.com

for the doors to our spirituality and Divinity to open wide. So we can become whole within our humanity and Divinity. A wholeness in which illusions of inequality, unworthiness, and separation no longer serve to close doors to our spirituality and Divinity, keeping us confined to the “little picture” of life and ourselves. A wholeness in which we can fully embrace the Gifts of Life, Creating Our Life, Eternal Life and God Within which we have been given. A wholeness in which we are being the Love, Life and Energy—God Is, within our daily life. Dr. Nickolas Martin is a licensed psychologist who has worked in clinical, university, public school and private practice settings as a therapist, diagnostician, educator, and consultant for 35 years. He authored Ego Therapy: A Method for Healing Your Whole Self and co-authored with Rev. Linda M. Martin, EgoSpiritualism: Awakening to Your Human and Divine Self and The Two Voices Within Balancing the Energies of Ego and Spirit to Enhance Your Life. https://www.egoandspirit.info/ https://www.facebook.com/ egoandspirit/

I S S U E

V O L

J U L Y

2 0 1 9

THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

ADVENTURE

Dan Maston goes on an epic adventure

MONSTER TRUCKS ...and where to take them

ROADTRIPS OF THE YEAR

Shakti World

Powerful Jewelry

Check out our list of some of the best trips you will take in your life

When Someone Elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clutter Becomes YOUR Problem By Kartar Diamond

Most people seek out decluttering and organizing advice for themselves. But Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve noticed a few book titles which address the issue of how to deal with another person whose clutter can affect you. The most common scenario is likely the Omtimes.com

home environment, where a spouse or other family member has clutter issues even to the point of hoarding. One of my Feng Shui clients lived with her mother and father when I first met her. Neither she nor her father could confront the mother effectively about the hoarding problem. When the father died, the mother got even worse with her clutter, presumably because she was that much more depressed after her husband passed away. And it wasn’t until her mother died a few years later that my client was able to clean up the house, de-clutter and really transform the home into a comfortable living space. This client even proudly sent me a photo of a formerly cluttered room that she cleared out and turned into a neat and tidy Air BNB rental room. I have even known a few Professional Organizers who were married to spouses that were clutter-bugs, and that seems more than ironic, rather probably karmic on some level. I’ve seen how several different scenarios which could be lumped into two basic

categories. One category is the person who really is hoarding and saving things with no value or current purpose. I could give countless examples, but when someone is saving yogurt containers or all of their junk mail, then we know we have the makings of Pack Rat Syndrome. The other big category is the person who saves a lot of things that are functional and possibly worth keeping, but the storing of these items is overflowing and unsightly to the family member who is neater and more organized. Why should someone get rid of their surfboard, power tools or things a person does use occasionally, and which have indisputable monetary value or would be difficult to replace? My significant other see the practicality in storing things in emptied plastic kitty litter containers. They are in fact good quality containers with lids and handles, especially for emergency supplies. But, I don’t like seeing them stacked up against the wall in the den. My personal solution to the wall of miscellaneous “things” in the Omtimes.com

den was to build a very large closet in the room, enough to contain all those items and get them out of sight. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to ask him to get rid of those items, and now when I walk into the room, all the mishmash is behind closet doors. In fact, the room looks bigger even though the closet takes up more than 3 feet in depth from the original room. Not seeing the wall of things makes the room feel bigger. Sometimes the messy person confines their stuff to their own home office, man-cave, teen bedroom or personal closets. Other times, the clutter of one-person overflows into the personal space or common space of other family members. This is really where the tension mounts. In fact, for the family member who can close the door on the one room designated as the junk room, there is a lot less acrimony than the house which is filled with one personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clutter in every room. Many years ago, a Feng Shui client told me woefully out of earshot of his wife, that he only bought the bigger house so that it could handle the wifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perpetual hoarding and compulsive shopping. Omtimes.com

What I have described are silently or not-so-silently putting up with the clutter and disorganization created by another individual. This is not healthy for either party, and it can also teach really bad habits to children in the house. When the problem is massive, then it may be necessary to get family counseling, therapy and even medication for the person who is chronically depressed or unmotivated to maintain a semblance of normal living standards. There could be real disorders such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder or Attention Deficit Disorder contributing to the mounting clutter and in need of medical or psychiatric intervention. Short of that, bringing in a non-judgmental Organizer would seem essential and really provide an emotional relief for all involved. In the same way that no one wants to be told by another person to go on a diet and lose weight, no one wants to be shamed into de-cluttering. The project needs to be planned and executed with compassion and appeal to the person who has been procrastinating. In

fact, I have never encountered a clutterer who defended their mess as normal. They usually just feel overwhelmed and incapable of changing it, even while they wish they could do so. Having a lot of things around a person can make them feel safe. Stripping them of these physical possessions could be as traumatic as the loss of a loved one. If it is any comfort, some brilliant people are clutterers. It may go with the territory. So, it is not the result of lack of intelligence or even common sense: Quite the opposite. And still, living with someone whose standards are so different takes a special kind of patience and compromise. Personally, I like to keep as many surfaces in the house free of miscellaneous objects that are not used on a frequent basis. I recently bought a slow cooker with the plan to use it weekly for bone broth and soups. Why put this large bulky item away behind a cupboard when it is going to be regularly used? It’s stainlesssteel covering looks nice with my gray granite counter tops and gray and white cabinets.

I personally don’t see it as “clutter,” but I am aware that this is purely a subjective point of view. My significant other likes to have lots of little widgets on his desk and tiny ceramic dog and cat figurines. I might think they are clutter knick-knacks, but to him, they are whimsical fun objects to have around him. We both agreed to have a two-foot-high standing Santa Claus light on the front porch all year round for different reasons. He likes it because he is sentimental about Christmas. I agreed to let Santa Clause hang out all year round on our porch because I think it is like a “kitschy” gnome that boldly ignores tradition regarding when it is appropriate to put up or take down holiday decorations. The point being is that I decided to have a sense of humor and embrace its cute tackiness. Company: Feng Shui Solutions ® since 1992 From the Tao of Organizing Series http://fengshuisolutions.net

Omtimes.com

VISUAL JOURNEYS

OMTIMES |MAGAZINE

RAIL ROAD

MAY B 2018

TRANSITION & PATHWAYS

A RAILROAD IS LIKE A LIE YOU HAVE TO KEEP BUILDING TO IT TO MAKE IT STAND. MARK TWAIN

OMTIMES |MAGAZINE

SYAWHTAP NEPO

Love is the beginning, the middle, and the end of the pathway of discipleship. It comforts, counsels, cures, and consoles. Joseph B. Wirthlin OMTIMES |MAGAZINE

Life is full of adventure. There's no such thing as a clear pathway. G U Y

L A L I B E R T E

By living mindfully, you understand that there are many transitions in life. Goldie Hawn

Each one of us decides to incarnate upon this planet at a particular point in time and space. We have chosen to come here to learn a particular lesson that will advance us upon our spiritual, evolutionary pathway. Louise L. HayÂ

Open RO AD S

WHERE TO NEXT? The imagination is the golden pathway to everywhere. Terence McKenna

I S S U E

V O L

J U L Y

2 0 1 9

THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

ADVENTURE

Dan Maston goes on an epic adventure

MONSTER TRUCKS ...and where to take them

ROADTRIPS OF THE YEAR Check out our list of some of the best trips you will take in your life

THE WORD MANTRA

The mantra is a hymn attached to Hinduism and Buddhism and is repeatedly said, to relax and reach the state of meditation on who is singing or listening to the sound. t. This short and powerful spiritual formula leads to the connection with the Supreme, which can be different things to different people: You can recognize it as Truth, Love, Consciousness, Christ, Allah, Krishna, Shiva, Divine Mother or many other names.

The word Mantra is composed by the syllables MAN, that is to say, and TRA, that means delivery in Sanskrit, the old language of India, and ultimately means

OMTIMES

"that which, as , an object of meditation, brings you the liberation."

MANTRAS TO CONTROL ANGER MANTRAS ARE WRITTEN IN THE VEDAS, INDIAN SACRED BOOKS FIRST COMPILED IN 3000 BC, AND ARE METRICAL HYMNS AND PRAISES TO THE GODS, AND MAY BE CONSIDERED A PRAYER.

The hymns gave rise to the mantras that crossed the Brahminic period and

Many people think that the

were introduced into

mantra is related only to

Buddhism and later into Tibetan Buddhism.

Eastern religions, but it connects to all kinds of faith. There are specific mantras for the ways of Christianity,

Written thousands of years ago by gurus and

Islam, Buddhism, Jainism, etc.

masters of India, the

Finally, it is important to note

mantras can positively

that the mantras are a

influence a person's life, whether in the financial,

ladder leading directly to the Supreme Being, for our true attainment.

health or relationships. Repetition is the key to disrupting the natural process of the mind and leading us from one idea to another without control. When we chant the mantra, we stop this mental flow, bringing our body into total relaxation, as body and mind quiet down, opening up to the subtle vibrations that amplify our perception.

OMTIMES

2 MANTRAS FOR CONTROLLING ANGER 1. Mantra for Controlling

2. Mantra for Controlling

anger in General

Anger Between Two People

The mantra is: SHANTE

PRACHANTE SARVA

PRACHANTE SARVA MAHNA

KRODA UPASHA MANI

UPASHA MANI SWAHA

SWAHA Peace, Supreme peace. Let Peace, Supreme peace.

the anger between two

Let the anger return to

people return to its source

its source in universal

in universal energy so that

energy so that the

the energy is purified,

energy is purified,

returned to me and

becomes usable.

For more mantras connect with https://twitter.com/GoddessShivani OMTIMES

Learn with the Best

I S S U E

V O L

J U L Y

2 0 1 9

THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

ADVENTURE

Dan Maston goes on an epic adventure

MONSTER TRUCKS ...and where to take them

ROADTRIPS OF THE YEAR Check out our list of some of the best trips you will take in your life

Relationships

The interconnectedness among all human beings and, consequently, the relationships among us are the focus of this section. The dynamics of the web of connections we make is one of the most prominent aspects of human existence: how we interlace with each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s existence in a meaningful way.

How to Reform a Bully By Marcia Sirota, MD.

The subject of bullying has been in the news a lot lately, but do we really understand what a bully is? For that matter, do we know how someone becomes a bully? Omtimes.com

We can agree that no one who’s secure within themselves would feel the need to push around someone smaller or weaker than they are. A truly confident person is comfortable in their own skin and doesn’t need to prove how powerful they are. If we understand this fundamental truth about human nature, we can see that only those who are tormented by their own perceived failings would choose to engage in bullying. Although they use intimidation to dominate those who appear weaker, the bully is the real weakling, often backing down at the first sign of assertiveness on the part of their intended victim. When confronted, the bully reveals themselves as a coward whose aggression derives from insecurity. A bully is created by their parents and society. I believe the growing child has been on the receiving end of contempt or they’ve observed their parents or other adults belittling, abusing or intimidating those who appear less powerful.

The bully has learned from their role models how to be contemptuous toward any signs of human weakness, and since they’ve been made all too aware of their own inadequacies, they become filled with self-loathing. Experiencing these demonstrations of dominance causes the young child to feel scared, humiliated, even enraged, but has been subject to so much intimidation, it’s far too threatening to get angry at those who hurt them. The unconscious reaction would be to turn that rage inward against themselves. The bully is filled with intolerable self-directed rage and contempt. Having observed their role models taking out their anger on those who appear inferior, they learn to direct their own pent-up hostility toward other, weaker individuals. Essentially, a bully is someone who can’t face the aspects of their personality that they believe to be defective or inadequate. Being in the presence of someone who apparently demonstrates these unacceptable attributes is Omtimes.com

extremely threatening, and this, too, compels the bully to attack them. The truth is that the bully has more in common with those they pick on than they’d care to believe. They hate their own imperfection, and this hatred gets directed toward their victim. They’re merciless in their abuse because they’re terrified of being seen as having anything in common with their victim. Bullies are viewed with both anger and fear. They torment their victims and intimidate those in authority. Still, even if they succeed in pushing everybody around, they’ll never feel good about themselves. Walking around with that much self-loathing can’t make for a happy existence. It’s a lose-lose situation if the problem isn’t adequately addressed. So, can a bully be reformed? Can they learn to be a kind and caring person; to live and let live? The answer is yes, but only if they’re able to heal their selfloathing and develop the same self-acceptance that everyone requires.

Omtimes.com

The key to reforming a bully is compassion. They must forgive themselves for the cruelty they’ve been exhibiting and understand what’s been driving their behavior. If a bully can become compassionate toward themselves and can begin to accept all the weak, inadequate and unlovely parts of themselves -- traits that every human being shares -- then they can be more compassionate toward others. Contempt is a two-way street, but so is compassion. If a person is filled with contempt toward themselves, they’ll feel the same way toward others, and viceversa. If, on the other hand, a person is full of compassion for themselves, it’ll be impossible for them not to have compassion for others. The solution then is not to create sanctions for the bully but to enable them to identify the hurts they experienced while young and to heal their wounded heart. When they can fully accept themselves, they won’t feel compelled to hate or abuse others.

Conscious Dating Makes all The Difference

"Our Souls Recognized Each Other"

ASCENDINGHEARTS.COM

11 Signs You are in a Manipulative Relationship By Ascending Hearts

Some people are master manipulators. They are professional in manipulation, and often you do not even Omtimes.com

realize you are being cheated. A manipulative person is skilled in his â&#x20AC;&#x153;job.â&#x20AC;? Each of your movements is calculated, designed to control you to do or think whatever you want. If you are in a relationship with an emotionally manipulative person, you may be the last to realize it. They have a way of continually playing the victim, making you feel guilty and leading you to believe they have your best interests at heart when that could not be further from the truth. If you suspect that you are being manipulated by someone, see the following 11 signs of manipulative behavior to be sure if you are in a Manipulative Relationship 1. Manipulative people love constant accusations Accusations are frequent occurrences when a person

is in a relationship with a manipulator. The purpose of the allegations is to provoke discussion, which motivates the manipulator to become a victim and convince the other person that they are wrong. 2. Manipulative people play games with emotions Emotional manipulators play with our emotions to make us feel doubtful and insecure. Generally, they meant to make us angry or saddened, for when we are in situations involving low vibration feelings, we are more susceptible to manipulations. 3. Manipulative people damage things from the manipulated Manipulating people can often ruin something they know is important to you, just to leave you in a sad state. If this ever happens, know that it is a toxic pattern of behavior. They are abusive, make no mistake.

Omtimes.com

4. Manipulative people encourage jealousy Jealousy greatly harms us. Manipulators know this, and so they do everything to provoke us and blind us with clouds of suspicion. In playing this game, they may convince us to do whatever they want. This behavior may manifest in your partner flirting with others in front of you or comparing you often to strangers. 5. Manipulative people Act like they are the victim Manipulators always act like victims. No matter what the situation, they still misread your words and make you feel guilty until you believe you did something wrong and that you should apologize. When you fall into their story, you become more prone to manipulation. 6. Manipulative people make you feel guilty for

Omtimes.com

their mistakes. An emotional manipulator is professional at placing blame on others. If he forgets something, it’s because you did not remember it. If he’s late for a date, it’s because you told him the wrong time. Every time that person makes a mistake, it turns you into your mistake before you even realize what’s going on. An emotional manipulator will never admit guilt. 7. Manipulative people hurry the manipulated to make decisions Someone who is manipulating always rushes the other to make a decision. This person rarely allows you to take the time to analyze your options and make a wise choice. They know that by doing this, they are more likely to make things go as they wish. 8. Manipulative people actions

do not match their words Emotional manipulators use language to control people. They use flattering words and make promises to make you trust them but never have any intention of keeping their word. When they break a promise, they will blame you. 9. Manipulative people make you believe you are always negotiating As part of twisting your words, an emotional manipulator will make you think that you are negotiating. When it comes to situations that you disagree with, it has an indirect way of twisting the conversation to make you believe that you have settled on a middle ground. In fact, they are getting what they want, and you do not. Every time. 10. Manipulative people lie constantly Part of the daily routine of

an emotional manipulator is lying. He lies about exceptional situations, small details, and things that do not even matter. Emotional manipulators lie partly just to see if they can make you believe in whatever they would like. They consistently embellish stories and invent things because they are incapable of being honest and telling the truth. 11. Manipulative people tend to distort your words At the end of a conversation with someone who is emotionally manipulating you, you are completely confused. An emotional manipulator is an expert in twisting your words and making you question your own thoughts, opinions, and feelings. If you express an opinion they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like like, they will casually, but intentionally convince you that you do not really feel that way.

Omtimes.com

Metaphysics

DREAMS:

THE “WHY” OF THINGS By Kaya

We, as humans, always wish to find out the “why” of things and of existence. This quest to know is so deeply ingrained in us as beings that it leads to the opening of immense knowledge hidden inside each of us one day. When we receive Omtimes.com

dreams, beautiful or nightmares, it is actually an onset of the process to know who we are, the reason for our existence and also the next steps of our evolution. That is the reason why dreams have always been so important in all the traditions, as an advance way of studying and understanding the inner universe. The presence as well as the role of 4 elements of which we are made of, their inter-relation and experimentation within us to create who we are physically as well as metaphysically. Dreams fascinate and amaze most people because they can do things in dreams that may not be possible in reality. But, dedramatizing them helps one to unleash & attain the true potential within that was latent for so long. A Mirror of our Memories When we were small children, our parents often comforted us when nightmares disturbed our sleep. “It’s only a bad dream. It’s just your imagination. It’s not real,” they lovingly reassured us, not realizing that dreams are the Universe’s way of communicating the essence of who we truly are. Dreams

are not fanciful illusions; they are not abstract at all. In fact, when we understand Symbolic Language, the language of the Universe, we understand that dreams can be more real than our concrete, everyday reality. How so? Through Symbolic Language, dreams reveal our subconscious; they accurately and precisely reveal our feelings, thoughts, and actions from our past experiences that have been recorded by our soul in the form of memories. Dreams allow us to delve deeper into ourselves to understand how multiple memories continuously influence our day-to-day lives. Through dreams, we understand the origin of our life’s challenges and ways to overcome our obstacles to become more joyful and better beings. Dreams reveal the deepest truths of our subconscious: of who we were, who we are, and the potential of who we will become. It is important that one understands the cause of the problem or situation. It is all about learning the lessons and evolving. One can open the layers of memories to understand the cause through dreams and Omtimes.com

attain an evolved conscience by being aware of those patterns that now reflect in the way of thinking, behaving, feeling and changing. A Note about Nightmares When we enter the study of dreams and symbolic language, it is important to remember that our dreams, especially nightmares, are only a certain percentage of who we are. When we have intense nightmares, it does not necessarily mean that they are announcing a current problem in our life (but it is possible) or that they will manifest in our concrete reality. Sometimes they symbolize our emotions, thoughts, deeper memories, and blockages that need cleansing for us to live a more Angelic life. So many times we receive dreams where we can see things happening that can never possibly happen in reality, like we can see ourselves in a car that is flying or an attack by aliens, etc. We should never discard any dream because everything has a meaning. We actually visit the state of our four elements of which all of

Omtimes.com

us are made up of, of which the universe is made up. And the nightmares or the positive dreams show up the imbalances and interactions of these elements. This understanding can be used for understanding the reasons for various diseases in humans as well. That can also be healed by changing those behaviors as depicted in the dream progressively. The +|- Code of Symbolic Language When we start to interpret our dreams, we learn that dreams are not silly stories of our imagination, but profoundly symbolic. Symbolic language helps us understand that behind every person, object, and situation there is a state of consciousness that represents positive characteristics and negative attributes. Every symbol has a plus, Angelic qualities, and virtues that we are in the process of developing as we strive to become better, more compassionate people over the course of lifetimes. Every symbol also can have a minus, weaknesses, and flaws that can be transformed into

positive qualities. All the symbols in the dream show a part of us and hence show plus or minus of that symbol in us. Each symbol teaches us something about ourselves. For, e.g., If we see a table that is broken in the drawing room, it will show our own inner difficulty in sharing with others in our social life. It becomes an equation, i.e., broken table + drawing room, i.e., sharing issues + social intimacy. I have been meditating for 10 years. Isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t that enough? Many of us on the spiritual path have dreams and meditations of flying. Flying feels beautiful. The positive symbolism of flying is an expansion, elevation, global vision, and ability to connect with the multi-dimensions. Does it surprise you to know that flying also has negative attributes? Flying can also symbolize tendencies of being too airy, of escaping when we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to face situations in our concrete reality. To understand whether a symbol

is + or -, we must analyze its context and placement in our dreams and meditations. Dreams are the truest mirrors of our souls, our qualities of goodness as well as our flaws. They reveal all of the unfiltered percentages of us that our conscious mind would rather forget. For this reason, dreams are the most accurate reflection of our self. Our ego is left outside on the doorstep. When we meditate, our ego can create chaos in the beginning. Left unchecked by our dreams, our imagination can spin fantasies that boost our ego. Ego interference is especially common for the seasoned meditator. We believe we are spiritual, when in fact, we can erroneously develop fat spiritual egos marked by profound lacks within we are not aware. We believe we understand everything; at this precise moment, we must practice the most amount of caution and seek guidance from our dreams. Dreams discern the truth, returning us back to ourselves.

Omtimes.com

The Meaning of True Redemption By Debbie Peluso

What does the word â&#x20AC;&#x153;redemptionâ&#x20AC;? imply? Is it salvation through the sacrifices of a redeemer? Is it forgiveness for ourselves and for others? What is this act of grace? To many, the crucifixion of

Omtimes.com

Jesus symbolizes the purging of sins, past and present, and, therefore, salvation. But is this taking spiritual responsibility for ourselves, or is it a justification for future behaviors, believing if we place our faith in an external redeemer we shall be saved? We all make mistakes. Who has not created suffering to another and to oneself by inexcusable actions or malicious words? It seems to be humans’ second nature. The concept of “cause and effect” is for every cause we make, which includes our thoughts and intentions, there is an equal effect. If we judge another, we shall be judged just as harshly, if not more so. Should we participate in an act that creates bodily harm to any human or animal, in some manner, it shall be brought back to us? How the effect manifests vary. It does not always present in an equal fashion. However, some

way…. somehow, whether it be mental anguish, physical discomfort or a myriad of unfortunate events in our lives, it will manifest. That said, is it fair to shift the burden and responsibility onto another to suffer the consequences of our causes? We all know someone in our lives who fulfills that role. Someone, we shift our shame to justify our actions. Jesus shed his blood for us sinners, but was it to save us, or was it to symbolize that through acceptance, forgiveness and following a doctrine that teaches us to live with integrity, righteousness, responsibility, and love, we can be our own redeemers. It does not matter whether you are Christian, Muslim, Hindu or of any other school of thought, we all seek to be liberated from our suffering. This is particularly true after we have undergone a

Omtimes.com

traumatic event or an illness or in the natural, yet complicated, process of aging. When we are faced with mortality, our own or another’s, past ill wills or actions we buried into our subconscious and chosen to forget to begin to resurface. We feel shame for an action, word, intent or how we made someone feel. It eats at the very pit of our stomach. “How could I have done that,” is the question we so painfully pose to ourselves. The more it surfaces…., the more we feel the effect of a cause made. So how do we make peace with ourselves? How do we release this suffering? Meditation, reflection, contemplation brings us to that sacred space within that is so often referred to as the “Christ Consciousness,” which may be the symbolism of the Cross upon which Christ died. It is through him that we are redeemed, but not as an

Omtimes.com

external savior, rather as the archetype of that which we possess. Meditation connects us to that energy. Does it conjure up uncomfortable, shameful and terrifying memories and emotions? You bet! Do we feel remorseful? No question. What do we do with it? Do we run, hide, confront? “We can be redeemed only to the extent to which we see ourselves.” (Martin Buber) As painful memories resurface, we could understand our own identity about the suffering. A Christian doctrine speaks to, “we come to know who we are in Christ.” Yes, we do. The Christ Consciousness within us connects to our identity, (spiritual and physical) and, therefore, to those areas of our life where we have not lived in integrity and love allowing us the opportunity to seek redemption. How? The answer is not to bury it

further into our subconscious out of fear of facing ourselves, but rather to look at ourselves…see our reflection in the mirror of our consciousness finding acceptance and responsibility, purging ourselves, asking forgiveness and liberation. Possible affirmations we could say could be “I ask to be forgiven and to find redemption for any suffering I may have caused another.” Or, you may find that as you delve into the refrigerator of your subconscious, you need to forgive someone else. “I forgive so and so (fill in the blank) for any suffering they may have caused me and may they find redemption and love in their lives.” Redemption is not a ‘bad’ word or a presumptuous word. It is a noun that speaks to forgiveness for ourselves and others for actions of ill will committed. It speaks

to regaining possession of our future by truly being repentant and clearing away negative effects of causes made, living out our lives with compassion, honor, and integrity for ourselves and towards others. We can chant mantras; we can meditate; we can pray; we can ask. It matters not, but what does matter is taking responsibility for own spirituality and actions and sincerely desiring to clear of all karma. Debbie Peluso obtained her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Metaphysics in association with the University of Sedona in Arizona. She is a certified practitioner in Meditation, metaphysical/ spiritual counseling, and is a working astrologer and coowner of Zion Yoga Studio in the Washington, D.C. area. Debbie is also a facilitator of and teaches the Kabbalistic Tree of Life.

Omtimes.com

Personal Growth & Development We grow as individuals as we face challenges and overcome lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s obstacles. This section is dedicated to helping you chart your course.

4 Steps to Reclaiming Your Self By Karen Ulvestad

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to reclaim ourselves. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to come second in the busyness of the modern world. Without self, we become weakened by the effects of illness and become unable to adapt to the constantly changing world around

Omtimes.com

us. Finding and keep self is the foundation of a happy, balanced life. The modern world is filled with busyness. It demands our attention. Other dominate our time and energy. We struggle to keep up with the rapid pace of change. Sometimes, it feels like we are drowning, and everything becomes overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be this way. The hard part is disconnecting and finding time for self. We exist; therefore, we must invest in ourselves. Without this investment, we get swept away and lose our sense of self. This is one of the gateways to anxiety and depression.

or inner peace. It can be challenging at the start, but practice makes the process of meditation easier. The easier it becomes, the longer the calm is sustained within. There are many different forms of meditation. It is good to find the one that works within one’s life routine. Styles include transcendental, mantra, and mindful (Buddhist). It’s not about the amount of time spent meditating. It is about the quality of the meditation time. 2. Exercise

1. Meditation

Exercise is essential! It helps maintain the physical body. It makes us physically stronger, creates more energy to work through the day, and gives us self-confidence. It releases endorphins into our body, which helps live our mood. We feel more energetic, and better about ourselves.

Meditation is finding time to look inward, tune into the inner self, and be calm. This skill is essential to maintaining yourself in the modern, chaotic world. It helps us work towards an inner calm

To exercise, it requires us to move. It is defined as burning calories for a sustained time frame. The simplest form of exercise is walking. Other forms of exercise include

Here are 4 easy steps to regain balance in the modern world and keep a sense of self.

Omtimes.com

running, aerobics, weight training, or exercise videos. Yoga is a gentle form of exercise, benefiting the mind, body, and spirit. 3. Proper Nutrition Food is the fuel the body uses keep functioning. It is counted in calories. If we eat too many calories, we store it in our bodies as fat stores. Each pound of these fat stores is approximately 3500 calories. If we eat too few calories, our bodies believe we are starving and will start to process our muscles for energy. Proper nutrition includes eating the correct number of calories per day. Nutrition is the balance of vitamins, minerals, and calories we ingest. This balance feeds the body and keeps it strong. It enables us to combat illness and disease. It contributes to a sense of well-being. When our bodies function better, we feel stronger, more self-confident, and happier. 4. Alone Time Alone time allows us to truly

Omtimes.com

think. It is time to work on personal projects, journal writes, create art, or simply relax. This is imperative in the process of finding and keeping our selves. It is the foundation of being happy, well, and focused. Alone time is the moments without the demands of other people. It is the breath of fresh air we breathe with intention. These are the moments that define the coming moments in our lives. It is the time to ground, focus on our own interests, and rejuvenate for our return to the modern world. Karen Ulvestad is a Reiki Master/Teacher, intuitive, writer and Aroma Therapy student. She has been on this path for most of her life. Through the process of learning, she has concluded that all things are related. She strives to come from a place of balance, peace, and calmness. Her book “Whisperings of the Spirit” is available at www.Blurb.com

ASCENDINGHEARTS.COM

WE ENGINEER SECOND CHANCES

Learning How to Embrace the Impossible by Crystal Presence

Acknowledging the exploration of what we know is possible. Embracing what we think is impossible and bringing forth a new experience of what it means to be human. “Our hearts know that a more beautiful world is possible, but our minds do not know how it’s possible.” Charles Eisenstein Omtimes.com

As pioneering spirits, we love to enhance our lives with the exploration of what is possible. We explore with an underlying knowing that what we want can happen. If we envision and dream about it, we know that it can be realized somehow and somewhere. With the rapid growth of technology we also have an understanding that some things that we have considered impossible are inevitable in our lifetime. What if we embrace something that we think is impossible? What if we reach for a state of consciousness that allows us a new context of living, a context that is free of separation, greed, deceit, and war? While some are cynical about humans everchanging, simultaneously there is a growing number of leadingedge thinkers who are stretching their imagination for the possibility of a new humanity. The question becomes how we can make the transition from the old story of separation, competition and self-interest to a new story of connection, empowerment and caring? As the old continuity is breaking

down with the social and ecological crisis, how can we bring forth something new? One way is to stop trying to figure it all out. Creating space to allow new insights to appear on how we can change minds in subtle and empowering ways. A great example is when the United Nations called upon the leading edge transformational coach George Pransky for assistance in changing the minds of law officers who have been participating in horrific acts ofof abuse and torture. Also the many others such as Barbara Mark Hubbard and Jean Houston who are speakers, authors, and facilitators for changing the way we perceive and interact with our world, reminding us how each of us is a unique part of the impulse of creation. The following are tips on how we too can be part of the resolution in bringing forth a new way of being human in our world…. • Willingness to let go of trying, control and manipulation. Allowing ourselves to be guided to new insights, perception, and experiences. Letting go and Omtimes.com

connecting with our source and internal guidance system. • Realizing that our suffering is generated from our thoughts, feelings, and actions. Admitting that we are not victims and knowing that we are one with the source that is always with us guiding with ways to end our suffering. • Being curious about the true nature of life. Asking questions such a what the nature of experiencing the humanity of whole being wellness, sustainability and empowerment is? • Opening to the idea that well-being is the nature of our being. • Realizing that we are energy beings with thoughts and feelings that are shaping our reality. • Embracing the consciousness and senses that allow us to experience our reality. • Being grateful for the evolution that is unraveling in Omtimes.com

and around us. • Cultivating the ability to have peace of mind. Letting go of focusing on thoughts and feelings that are not in alignment with our intent for wellbeing. Knowing that our thoughts and feelings of the past, present and future are ours to form the bend. • Bringing forth the bodily felt sense of what we have thought was impossible. • Moving our energy from the inside out. In his wellrespected book, Shaking Medicine: The Healing Power of Ecstatic, Bradford Keeney, Ph.D. explores the history of healing through movement. His work is exemplified by the time our country sent a group of therapists to another country where the people had been through an unspeakable trauma. The people affected did their best to sit and talk to the well-meaning therapists. Finally, they asked the therapists to leave so they could gather with their people to dance around the fire, shake, sing and express their feelings to bring healing

to their community. • Getting clear how the welfare of each of us enhances the welfare of all. With the growing confirmation how each of us affects the whole, we are changing our thinking of how we can shape our world. • Cultivating the bodily felt sense of how a new story of humanity would be. Releasing the old story of “how humans are” and bringing forth a new story of peace, love, joy, and freedom from the suffering. • Listening to conversations that support a new way of thinking. For example, exploration of how the roles of science and religions may be limiting what is possible. • Letting go of the trying to fix ourselves and our world. Breathing, moving and circulating our energy as our minds open to new insights on how to change our way of being. • Sending out multidimensional

invitations for people who are looking to join us on our path of exploration and vision. Partners who understand, love and align with what we are doing. • Honoring the perfect timing for all people, as we release judgment and learn from whoever crosses our path. How is any part of this person like me? What can learn from them? • Cultivating the joy of oneness with our source and the infinite power of resolution that moves through us. Together we can bring forth a new humanity one choice at a time. About the Author: Crystal Presence is a certified expansion guide with the Total Integration Institute, a multidimensional coach, author, and facilitator of the event called Freedom at Core. Crystal is known for her fun, insightful way of supporting people in finding their way to the experiences they want. CrystalPresenceOnline.com

Omtimes.com

Positive thinking can change your life. If you want to live longer, be happy, healthy and successful, all you have to do is think positive. More and more people (including Doctors and Scientists) are turning to positive thinking because it is a powerful tool for transforming your inner self into amazing

Omtimes.com

health generating and selfhealing entity. Optimistic people have discovered that the human mind has the power to turn wishes into reality through positive thinking. Researchers continue to find increasing evidence pointing to the many benefits of positive thinking. According to a Stanford Research Institute study - success is 88 percent positive thinking, and only12 percent education. Positive thinking is an important factor in your ability to succeed in life. Positive thinking is an optimistic state of mind that always sees the bright side of life and focuses on the glass being half full instead of half empty. Positive thinking is a mental attitude that produces constructive results. Positive thinking brings inner satisfaction, happiness, peace and better health; improves relationships and attracts success into your life. While we all have this powerful tool, many of us are not aware of it. Some long-term studies on positive thinking and health have been conducted that confirms it strengthens the

immune system and assists in healing. The evidence so far affirms that it leads to positive outcomes. Perhaps the greatest contribution made by psychology and neuroscience is that positive thinking is linked with virtues like kindness and compassion, and in proving that positive thinking leads to â&#x20AC;&#x153;wealthâ&#x20AC;? of mind, body, and soul. How does the power of positive thinking work? According to psychology, our mind controls our body. You can tap this capability by following a few simple steps. Each person is capable of programming their own mind to achieve what they desire. By learning to direct your thinking, you can change the way you behave and achieve a positive mindset. With a positive mindset, you always expect more joy, happiness, better health, a greater success which also helps you reduce your stress levels. Basically, whatever your mind thinks and believes is what you expect. Anticipate positive situations, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get positive outcomes. So, taking charge of your mind becomes a vital factor in keeping your body healthy. Omtimes.com

You can do this through affirmations and by consciously relaxing your mind through meditation. There is no greater joy than a healthy, positive life. You feel exhilarated, energetic, happy and on top of the world. A sense of total wellbeing permeates your mind. The future looks bright. You feel good to be alive. Adopting positive thinking as a way of life will bring constructive changes into your life, and makes them happier, brighter and more successful. An emerging field of psychology takes a scientific approach to the power of positive thinking and has come up with some surprising revelations: • Positive thinking is a “skill” that can be learned to create happiness. • Happiness is the cause of positive outcomes in life, not the result. • Wealth does not bring happiness, but using one’s wealth to benefit others does contribute to personal happiness.

Omtimes.com

• Happy people tend to have deep religious or spiritual beliefs. How to develop Positive thinking? Many of us know what positive thinking is, but not all of us know how to be positive or how to maintain a positive attitude. Watch what you say – try to say positive things to people, avoid complaining and saying negative statements. To turn the mind toward positive thinking, some inner work is required, since attitude and thoughts do not change overnight. You can develop this state of mind by reading inspiring and motivating literature, through visualization, affirmations, and meditation. When your state of mind is generally optimistic, you’re able to handle everyday stress more constructively. This ability may contribute to the widely observed health benefits of positive thinking. Here are 10 simple things you can do to jump-start positive thinking: 1. Smile and Laugh: It has been

scientifically proven that smiling can improve your overall mood and outlook on life. Laughter is the best medicine, and they aren’t lying. Join a Yoga laughter club for group support for laughing and Meditation practice for calming the Mind, Body and the Soul. 2. Help others unselfishly: Focus on helping others by donating your time, wisdom, and money. 3. Eliminate your ego - Human ego is a dangerous thing since it makes people criticize and judge others. 4. Gratitude - Being grateful improves your chances of becoming more happy and content in your life. By being thankful for what you have, you will achieve true happiness. 5. Set goals: - Set your goals daily on a piece of paper and plan out your priorities from top to bottom. Having goals will provide the drive and motivation you need to become happy and successful in life. 6. Train your mind to focus on

more positive thoughts - Replace negative with positive thoughts and also take positive action. 7. Surround yourself with positive people: - Hang out with people who have a positive attitude and outlook on life. 8. Be persistent and find the positive in all situations: - Make positive thinking a daily habit and way of life. 9. Work Out & Eat Right – Eating healthy and working out will keep you in a great state of being and help maintain an active mind. Go for a long walk, run, or go to the gym. Also include Yoga, Meditation, and Pranayam in your daily routine. 10. Listen to your favorite music. Health Benefits of Positive Thinking Researchers continue to explore health benefits that are produced by positive thinking and optimism. • Lower stress levels, • Improve your body’s immune system,

Omtimes.com

• Make you more resilient and to develop the ability to overcome life’s difficulties, • Bring more happiness and respect from other people, Increase your lifespan, • Create greater inner power and strength to inspire and motivate yourself and others, and • Reduce depression. Positive thinking is a mental attitude that helps us see the “silver lining.” Having a positive mindset causes us to anticipate happiness, joy, health, and favorable results. Real and effective positive thinking requires focusing on positive thoughts and positive emotions and also taking positive action to bring about favorable outcomes. The power of positive thinking is about committing yourself to get the most out of your day – every day. It is about being enthusiastic, keeping your mind focused on important things and developing strategies for dealing with problems. Positive thinking can help you to do your best each day. It can also help you to look back at things that happen along the way and view them as positive life lessons. Omtimes.com

Also, in sharing a positive mood and positive experiences, you and those around you enjoy an emotional boost. We create our entire world by the way we think. Thoughts are the causes and conditions are the effects. Our circumstances and conditions are not dictated by the world outside; it is the world inside us that creates the outside. Regardless of our circumstances, each person has the innate, God-given ability to create or alter reality using the power of positive thinking. Studies show that people who participate in positive thinking lead more successful and happier lives than people who don’t. About the Author: Darshan Goswami has more than 40 years of experience in the energy field. He worked as a Project Manager for Renewable Energy, Micro-grid and Smart Grid projects at the United States Department of Energy (DOE) in Pittsburgh. In dedication to his life serving humanity and poor people, the author supports India Foundation for Children Education and Care, Inc. (http:// www.ifcare.org/).

OMTIMES

INSTITUTE

THE GAME CHANGERS A New Brand of visionaries, innovators and leaders that changed how we look and Participate in the world.

When you look at the view of Earth from space, you are immediately in awe of what you do see: the incredible beauty of Creation. It is not until you look closer that you realize what you do not see. You do not see lines partitioning countries. You do not see separation between races. You do not see division between religions. You do not see the walls people build to isolate themselves from each other. There is only One Planet. There is only One Humanity. This section is dedicated to introducing thoughts and ideas to foster a greater understanding of Humanityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interdependence.

World Vision

Integrating Our Fragmented Selves and Society by Shuddhaanandaa Brahmachari

It is first necessary to go within and integrate the fragmented parts of our self into a cohesive state of unity so that our mind, body, and spirit flow together in synergy. In such a state whatever Omtimes.com

we do is an act of worship, whatever we think is an act of compassion and love, and we are away from the grip of egotistical efforts. In this state of calm mind, we can then serve the world selflessly as the very embodiments of God. Soul by soul we will move towards unity and peace, and not live in pieces! Ego Splits and Rules Till the Soul Takes Over The most difficult spiritual journey is to first integrate the fragmented parts of our own self. The ego splits and rules till the soul takes over. This crowded state of mind is where the inner voice of conscience, or the divine, is feeble or is not heard at all.Â As such it is better to be less judgmental about others and be more analytical about oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own self to walk the path to peace and happiness in life. Our ultimate goal is to heal our divided inner self-talk first through quiet contemplation

and positive affirmations, so the conflicting parts begin to work together with holistic harmony. Like our bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trillions of cells work together in absolute harmony, so too the different voices of our mind need to be affirmed and guided into wholeness. This individual inner work is absolutely necessary before the fragmented parts of our society can begin to heal and integrate also. Bedtime Self Analysis At the end of the day, it is most important to look back at what we did throughout the day to observe the play of this split persona that constantly runs in our mind. Then we take a vow that the next day in similar situations when we are about to repeat the same mistake, we will be alert and mindful and remind ourselves of our determination not to repeat the mistake. Most of our thoughts and

Omtimes.com

actions are repetitive, and we don’t even know that we are getting into the trap of our subconscious programming., Any thought, habit, or belief that is repetitive sinks into the depths of the subconscious mind and creates the fragmentation that causes these inner conflicts. By being alert and mindful of our thoughts and actions when we are about to fall asleep, as we relax and breathe mindfully, we then see the whole day in a flashback, as if seeing the whole day’s actions on a TV screen, part by part, act by act. Then we can also consciously detect what acts or intentions were driven by pure selfishness and ego, false vanity and pretense, pride and arrogance vs. what actions were done with a spirit of compassion, love and selfless offering for the highest good of others. If one does this practice over a period of time, the self will

Omtimes.com

be less split, and there will be less war going on within. Meditation is Integration Meditation is integration. Integrating the splits into the whole. Our split personality that is created by our false society needs holistic healing first. We are spiritual beings of light not fragmented personas. Let us wake up to our spiritual inheritance and discover the vast dimensions of human life, its richness, and glory! Meditation allows the dust of our mind to settle so that we can quietly observe our divisive inner self-talk, and by accepting, identifying and befriending our parts, we begin to listen in the union to the divine intelligence for divine assistance. Through divine assistance comes a solution not to fix a specific problem in life, but to prepare our soul for any contingencies in life. A deep trust in the divine will

come and be the ultimate source of not just strength, but perennial positive celebrations in life! Moving Back from “Pieces” to “Peace” As we have experienced fragmentation in our inner world, so, too, the outer world is drifting away from “peace” to “pieces!” It is time humanity joins together the divisive bits and pieces into unity, which is possible only through each individual living a soul-centered, examined life. Before we go out to the world to bring any kind of change, first let us know that our world is our own mind. We see the world through our mind, translate the vibrations of the world through our mind and perceive the other. It is necessary to first dwell within and integrate the conflicted self into a cohesive state of unity so

that our mind, body, and spirit are in synergy. In such a state whatever we do is an act of worship, whatever we think is an act of compassion and love, and we are away from the grip of egotistical efforts and can serve the world selflessly as the very embodiments of God. Soul by soul we will move towards unity and peace. Shuddhaanandaa Brahmachari (India): Globally acclaimed spiritual and inspirational speaker, author, and visionary social advocate; founded Lokenath Divine Life Mission, 1985, which serves thousands of poverty-stricken individuals in India. Received Lifetime Achievement Award, House of Lords, UK, 2015. www.beawareandawake.com www.facebook.com/srisri. shuddhaanandaa www.amazon.com/ Baba-ShuddhaanandaaBrahmachari/e/B003W5XP5W/

Omtimes.com

Books

Real Magic:

Ancient Wisdom, Modern Science, and a Guide to the Secret Power of the Universe By Dean Radin, PhD

What if magic were real? Not magic like a Hogwarts letter arriving in the mail, or the feigned magic of Houdini. Real magic. A genuine but hidden power that resides within each individual. A power tied to our consciousness. A power that makes phenomena like telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, and psychokinesis not only possible, but inevitable. According to Dean Radin, Chief Scientist at the Institute of Noetic Sciences (IONS), bestselling author, and featured scientist in the New York Times Magazine, magic is real, and science is on its way to understanding it. In his new book, Real Magic, Radin paves the road to new scientific horizons, arguing that magic is a natural aspect of reality that everyone is capable of tapping into with diligent practice. Real Magic begins with a brief history of magic over the centuries, exploring how natural magic of yore such as astrology and alchemy have evolved into todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sciences of astronomy and chemistry. It then reviews the scientific evidence for magic, it introduces a series of simple but effective magical techniques, and it explains why magic is poised to play a key role in exploring the frontiers of future science.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;A thought-provoking book. The author makes a convincing case for the reality and significance of magic.â&#x20AC;? ~ Brian Josephson PhD, Nobel Laureate in Physics and Emeritus Professor of Physics, Cambridge University

For more information, or to purchase the book, click the cover or visit:

Amazon.com

BOOK SPOTLIGHT Accelerate Your Book Marketing Success with OMTIMES

Various Packages to Fit your Budget

TREAT YOUR BRAIN ONLY WITH MINDFUL AND CREATIVE INFORMATION.

MAGAZINE

May B 2018 Contributors Writers

Andrew Pacholyk MS L.Ac Ascending Hearts Baba Shuddhaanandaa Brahmachari Carl Greer, PhD, PsyD Crystal Presence Darshan Goswami Debbie Peluso Dr. Nickolas Martin GoddessShivani Isha Judd Karen Ulvestad Kartar Diamond Kaya & Christiane Muller Marcia Sirota, MD. Sandie Sedgbeer The Happy Pear

42 100 134 56 122 126 112 64 86 52 118 68 106 96 24 80

Copyright Information Original material generated by contributors is copyrighted in the names of the contributor, and commercial publication and reprint of material for distribution is strictly prohibited without written permission from the contributor. To read the OMTimes Reprint Policy, visit our website at: http://omtimes.com or click here: OMTimes Reprint Policy

Please review the

OMTimes Reprint Policy Contact our Advertisement Team:

advertise@omtimes.com