OMTimes Magazine November B 2022 Special Edition by OMTimes Media

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Matthew Fox Interview

11 Foods You Can Eat Right Now to Increase Your Energy

5 Ways to Heal Panic Attacks & Anxiety 54 If Cardinals Appear, Your Loved Ones in Heaven Are Near!

The Coincidences that Can Change Our 66 Lives

How Do People Find Their Soul Mate? 100 7 Things Single People Are Tired of Hearing

108

Clearing Energy of Used Items

116

Synchronicities – Dance with the Cosmic Flow

122

Holistic Tips to Fight Off Winter Blues 128 Insights at the Edge of Love and Death 136 Endless Awakening - Book Spotlight

Six Ways to Be Mindful, Even With a Busy Life

OM Spotlight: Ommie Awards

Counting the Good in Your Life

Using Feng Shui to Brighten Your Holidays

OMTIMES.COM Second Edition November 2022

142

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Giving

OMTimes Fall November 2022 Second Edition brings One of the most influential authors of our times: Matthew Fox, into the Spotlight. In an exclusive Interview with Sandra Sedgbeer, Matthew Fox discussed his latest book, "Essential Writings on Creation Spirituality," which shares fresh perspectives and approaches to the most vital issues of our time, including spirituality and science, culture and politics, ecology and education, work and the creative arts, gender and sensuality, youth and eldering, evil and activism, and more...

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Creation Spirituality

OMTimes Magazine

To recover a spiritual tradition in which creation, and the study of creation matters would be to inaugurate new possibilities between spirituality and science that would shape the paradigms for culture, its institution, and its people. Matthew Fox

Matthew Fox is a spiritual theologian, an Episcopal priest, and an activist for gender justice and eco-justice. He has written 37 books, including Original Blessing, The Coming of the Cosmic Christ, A Spirituality Named Compassion, The Reinvention of Work, The Hidden Spirituality of Men, Christian Mystics, and The Pope’s War. He has contributed much to the rediscovery of Hildegard of Bingen, Meister Eckhart, and Thomas Aquinas as pre-modern mystics and prophets. Fox holds a doctorate in the history and theology of spirituality from the Institut Catholique de Paris. The University of Creation Spirituality in California's founder conducts dozens of workshops each year and is a visiting scholar at the Academy for the Love of Learning.

OMTimes Magazine

Matthew Fox is the passionate prophet— and pied piper—of Creation-centered spirituality. A radical priest, visionary theologian, and ecumenical mystic, he has been called "the most creative, the most comprehensive, surely the most challenging religious-spiritual teacher in America" (Thomas Berry) as well as " one of the great prophetic voices of our time" (David Korten). He has devoted five decades to exploring the creation of spiritual traditions in Christianity and other world religions and demonstrating their relevance to the significant challenges of our times. These traditions affirm the inherent sanctity and creativity of the universe and all its inhabitants. They assert that a central human mission is to co-create a world of justice and compassion, beauty and peace, love and gratitude.

OMTimes Magazine

In this interview with Sandie Sedgbeer, Matthew Fox discussed his latest book, "Essential Writings on Creation Spirituality", which shares fresh perspectives and approaches to the most vital issues of our time, including spirituality and science, culture and politics, ecology and education, work and the creative arts, gender and sensuality, youth and eldering, evil and activism and more... Sandie Sedgbeer: Matthew Fox, several critical moral issues are now dividing humanity. Racism, climate change, religion, terrorism, supremacism, ecofascism, and a worrying resurgence of authoritarianism, patriarchy, and the growing suppression of women's rights.

But in your new book Essential Writings on Creative Spirituality, which contains gems of insights taken from all your books, we're reminded that resolutions to these postmodern problems can be found in pre-modern wisdom. Tell me more about that. Matthew Fox: Well, you're certainly right, Sandie, and in naming the challenges that face us, and especially that of climate change, where we're now literally facing our extinction as a species. So, we must dig deep and grow up fast, but science tells us we have seven years left to change our race. And this is where I think the mystical traditions of the worldare telling us some very basic things. For example, Thomas Berry, the eco-theologian and scientist, tells us that we will not save the earth without a recovery of the sacred.

OMTimes Magazine

He says that you do not save what you do not love, but also, we will not love what we do not consider as sacred. And then he answers how we recover a sense of the sacred when we've lost it? And his answer is recovering the universe – the awareness of the universe, its wonders and beauty, and how it's been working for us for 13.8 billion years. This new creation story from science, a new cosmology, is terribly important because it unites all people around the globe. The truth is that our species results from 13.8 billion years of the universe unfolding and birthing, and this just fills one with awe. And as Rabbi Heschel says, 'Awe is the beginning of wisdom.' What we have to do as a species is move from just knowledge, which is raw power, and take the road to wisdom, and, of course, built into wisdom is the feminine wisdom found in the world in the Bible. She's feminine Hokhma in Hebrew, Sofia in Greek, and Quan Yin in the East. So the banishment of wisdom that has taken place over the last few hundred years in the West and in education has been the banishment of the feminine and vice versa. So, bringing balance back is absolutely essential. And again, a lot of pre-modernism had that. For example, Julian of Norwich, in the 14th century, during the bubonic plague, the most severe pandemic Europe had ever faced, one out of two people died, she developed very deeply and richly a concept of the motherhood of God. Again, the Divine Feminine, 700 years before feminism. Of course, she was the first woman to write a book in English, but it wasn't published for 300 years–that's a long time to wait for your first review! Nevertheless, we're ready for her now. And she has so much to teach about the Divine Feminine without banishing the mask of the healthy masculine.

That's another thing, deconstruct patriarchy because patriarchy is an imaginary, false, and toxic version of masculinity. It's a philosophy of looking at the world exclusively in terms of competition––our reptilian brains Vs. As science teaches us, our mammal brains are our capacity for mothering and fathering, kinship and compassion. The word for compassion in Hebrew and Arabic is the word for womb. So, mammals have this special capacity for compassion. And this is what Jesus taught and what Muhammad teaches. So, all the spiritual traditions remind us that we're capable of compassion, which is a divine attribute. As Jesus says in Luke 6, 'Be compassionate like your Creator, and heaven is compassionate.' So, it's bringing heaven and earth together to develop our powers of compassion, instead of just our powers of 'I win, you lose,' which is the ancient reptilian brain in all of us. Sandie Sedgbeer: When you say that suppressing the feminine was the cause of us losing our love and knowledge of the sacred, would you put racism in that category as well? Because it seems that every time we get news of another shooting, it's usually racially motivated. We must wonder what's happening in the world and why humanity is so easily divided. Matthew Fox: Exactly, and so easily turned to violence. I mean, look at Ukraine. Europe was done with wars, and now 80 years later, we're seeing it again. And we're seeing it alive in our living rooms, the first war that's ever been live streamed. You would hope this might wake us up to how foolish and disastrous war is. And, of course, this awful bombing in Buffalo.

OMTimes Magazine

But notice again, who it is¬¬––it is a young, 18-year-old man. Doesn't this ring a few bells? What's wrong with men? We have to ask that question, and humans, well, they're so confused. Malidoma Somé used to say that society and culture without rites of passage for young people have three things wrong with the–– One, the young men are angry. Second, the adults are confused. And third, the overall system is in chaos. And I think that is so true. Of course, racism has been whipped up in the media; you cannot let Rupert Murdoch off the hook for that. This man is getting rich on it. Capitalism involves this when you want to make money for money's sake or power for power's sake. All morality goes out the window. And then we have this man Tucker [Carlson,] who has a big audience because of Murdoch, and I understand he has given over 400 talks about this nonsense theory of the so-called Great Replacement.

OMTimes Magazine

So much of it derives from fear, right? Apparently, white people are afraid there are going to be fewer white people. The world is a big place already, with fewer white people. If we don't learn to get along while in the majority, how will we ever get along when we're in the minority? I laugh because it's so absurd. We're all from Africa. We all had an African and black mother, just to remind everybody.

The interesting thing is that recently, we've discovered over 14 cousins of ours, hominids like ourselves, but in Southeast Asia. Of course, we knew previously about the Neanderthal because they were wandering Europe, and that's where white people's ancestors are from. However, now we've got 14 more, and they're going to find more still, and the message is this: every one of them is extinct. Homo sapiens, that's us, are the last ones standing, and what are we doing? We're trying to kill each other. Because we have different skin colors? I mean, are you kidding me? Where does hatred come from? I'm writing about this in my daily meditations now. It comes from envy, misuse of our powers of caring, and anger, which relate to love. We get angry when something we cherish is threatened. Then there's this whole thing about making machine guns available to ordinary citizens. These guns were designed to kill people at war because our political system is frozen. Some of it is so indebted to the big cash corporations and the N.R.A. that politicians aren't making decisions based on what's good for Americans. But on what's good for their bottom line and buying themselves back into office. And we do the same with judges now as our judicial system is all wrapped up in big money. Dark money. Sandie Sedgbeer: I want to talk a little about evil and creativity because you've said that evil abounds when humanity's capacity for creativity is at its greatest. Paul Levy, who wrote two books on Wetiko, which is a mind virus, a psychospiritual disease of the soul, says the way to combat what is plaguing our world is to use the divine gift of our creative imagination in the service of life. Do you think there is such a thing as real evil, or have we just gone astray? Matthew Fox: I wrote a major book on evil a couple of years ago [Sins of the Spirit, Blessings of the Flesh, Revised Edition: Transforming Evil in Soul and Society]. Deepak Chopra wrote the foreword to it, and he predicted that the number one spiritual problem in the 21st century would be evil.

OMTimes Magazine

I feel the West has underserved us in teaching us about evil. How many classes have people taken in college or high school about evil, Evil 101, or 202? The same is true of creativity. That, too, is underdeveloped in our educational systems. And when there's a budget crunch, out goes theatre and music and dance classes, and so they're related. Thomas Aquinas said that one human can do more evil than all the other species put together. It's amazing. He said that 800 years before Stalin or Hitler or Pol Pot or Putin. How did he know that in the 13th century? Because he respected our incredible intelligence, which is real, and our incredible creativity, which is also real. But it's one thing to have intelligence and creativity and another thing to steer it in the right direction. Because with our creativity, we can now tear down rainforest in a day that has taken nature and God 10,000 years to give birth to, and you cannot replace a rainforest. A rainforest is a once-in-alifetime event.

OMTimes Magazine

Religion has such an oversold sin that people don't want to hear about sin. And the result is we don't have a language for dealing with evil. Now sin is much smaller than evil, but the key to the relationship came to me from a Lakota teacher, Buck Ghosthorse, a faculty member and friend of mine, who said to me one day. 'In our tradition, fear is the door in the heart that let's evil spirits in.' I think that's really important. So, I apply that in my book to all the chakras. I take the seven chakras of the East and compare them to the seven capital sins of the West. Because if sin is misdirected love (which is Aquinas's definition of sin, and it's a Jewish understanding because the Jewish word for sin is an archery term which means 'missing the bullseye). Well, what if each of our chakras is a bullseye? It's a source of energy, of love. But if it's off center, then what? Then we have a correspondence with the capitalist. I'll give an example. The seventh chakra in our crown is, of course, a culmination of all the Kundalini energy that goes up our spine and, when it's healthy, goes out into the world as light energy that links up with others to create community and not only with other humans who hold light and want to make light happen, but with ancestors and spirits or angels as well. That's the healthy seventh chakra.

OMTimes Magazine

But an unhealthy seventh chakra would be envy. Envy recognizes the light in others but doesn't want to link up with it and make good things happen. Instead, it wants to shoot it down so that It is the last one standing. So again, it's the reptilian brain notion of "I win/you lose." So that's what I do in my studies; I apply this to all the chakras, giving us a new language and bringing together Eastern and Western wisdom to think about how we deal with evil. But if I define evil, I put it two ways. One is the traditional language of privation of good, the absence of good, or the diminishing of good. That's one dimension to evil. But the other, I see as a force in itself. I think that evil is present in the world. It is spiritual because it does not die; it keeps coming back. You know, racism. Dr. King took on racism in the 50s and 60s and got a lot done. But here we are in 2022, and 18-yearold white boys are traveling 200 miles to murder eleven or more black people in Buffalo. What's going on? We don't have to use words like Satan, Beelzebub, or Lucifer. We can use words like racism, sexism, militarism, narcissism, and these other isms that have a spiritual dimension because they don't die.

"Creation is all space, all time - all things past, present, and future."

They keep coming back. We all must examine our culture's inner worlds to ask why? What can we do to dismantle these ferocious energies like envy, fear, and hatred that obviously attract our species? But if we can't tame that reptilian brain, we'll not survive as a species.

Matthew Fox

OMTimes Magazine

And we are talking about evil now, and the methods we have, the medicine we have for moving beyond it because we do have medicines, all the spiritual traditions of the world, have something to say about greed, envy and violence, and hatred. And we have to kind of shake them down because religion can wander from a spiritual root and become a thing in itself. Then we lose that spiritual energy meant to get us all awake and act appropriately. Sandie Sedgbeer: You talk about the survival of humanity depends upon bringing in the feminine and revising the masculine. Bringing in the feminine is one thing. How do you revise the masculine?

Matthew Fox: I wrote a book called The Hidden Spirituality of Men: Ten Metaphors to Awaken the Sacred Masculine. My method is to apply these 10 archetypes to men, and of course, there's the masculine in every woman, too. So, it's not only men walking around today with toxic masculinity. Many women are too. We all have to move beyond patriarchy.

OMTimes Magazine

The important archetypes are Father Sky... So let me talk about this. The recovery of cosmology today is so exciting and beautiful. And any day now, we'll get pictures from the Webb telescope. So, what will if that can't fill us with wonder, gratitude, and awe? But now we're getting to that original light 13 billion years ago that has bathed and birthed all of creation, including our tiny, fragile, but the special planet. So, Father sky is coming alive today. And that is so important in the modern era. When the feminine was banished, we were told that the sky was mechanical, and nothing was living up there. Well, that's utter foolishness. We know a new star is born every 15 seconds from today's science. And what's a star? Well, our star, which is medium size, is our sun, which can hold a million Earths. So, we're not talking about something tiny being birthed every 15 seconds, which was nothing awesome. So, Father sky.

Then there's the Green Man, another powerful archetype. After all, the Green Man is the perfect symbol for this time of equal destruction because the Green Man stands for the relationship of humans to the vegetative world to the plant world.

.So, it's a celebration of the creativity and the generativity of the masculine, and it's an honoring of our relationship with other species, especially to the plant world. Indigenous people say that plants are the wisest ones on the planet. Why? Because they invented photosynthesis. And if it wasn't for them, of course, we wouldn't be here, no plants, no animals would be here. So, we owe so much to the plant world. Another archetype is the Blue Man, who stands for the powers of creativity and of, healing and art. Hildegard of Bingen did a great mandala painting on the Blue Man in all of us, the healing Christ in all of us. And Swami Muktananda, the Hindu saint of the 20th century, had this amazing meditation on the Blue Man that morphed from a pearl. And he says that meditation changed his life forever and that he overcame his fear of death. He got in touch with his creativity and his capacity to heal. So, hunter-gatherers are an important archetype because 95% of our presence on this earth as homo sapiens have been hunter-gatherers. Now, of course, we go shopping instead. But we can ask, Where's that energy? What are we choosing to hunt and gather for? First, I think that the question brings forth our values. We want to hunt and gather to save our children and our children's children. And so that energy of hunting and gathering, the courage it takes, and that tribal community it takes this should be dedicated to saving the planet and taking on climate change. You know, whatever sacrifices we have to make. Hunter-gathering was a sacrificial thing. It was a matter of life and death. This is why, when our ancestors went out to hunt, they always did rituals beforehand to get the energy and courage up to go out and face the tough animals they were going to encounter. So, we have that energy in us, but we have to untrivialize it; It's not about going shopping or finding our parking places. It is about something more severe and serious, and that is what can we discover and create to turn back climate change?

OMTimes Magazine

There are many areas where we are making some progress in that, but one of them, which is never mentioned, is veganism. Scientists have proven that if the human race went vegan in ten years, we would stop and reverse climate change. It would start going backward because we could take all the land that livestock is using and grow trees instead of livestock, and those trees would save the planet for us. You can say, well, that's extreme, but for young people, not so extreme. They're still young enough to train their bodies to eat a little differently. But there's a spectrum of vegans. Vegan would do that, vegetarianism would be a big help, and of course, a lot less meat would be a big help also. So, there's a spectrum where we could include that as part of our efforts to change how we're doing energy and reinventing stronger batteries so we can hold the sun and wind energy longer. All the rest we're working on. So humanity is not done yet. We've got creativity, the very image that makes us dangerous also makes us survivable if we really put it to action. Sandie Sedgbeer: Matthew Fox, you are passionate about reinventing education and bringing art and creativity back into the classrooms. This is a subject close to my heart because I see what my grandchildren have to do in school these days. And it's no wonder many kids come out of school angry, resentful, and worn out. It takes all of the creativity and art out of them. So what is the answer to that? Matthew Fox: Several years ago, I did a pilot project for two years with inner city kids because, at that time, 64% of black boys in America were not graduating from high school.

OMTimes Magazine

And I asked myself, are they done? Or is the system done? What we call education is really dumb and what we brought in was what I call art as meditation. Still, because it was a public school, we just said it was creativity. So, we had kids making movies, and we had them creating poetry and rap and so forth. And at the end of our program, 100% said they wanted to stay in school. They all told us this was their first experience of the fun of learning. There's so much wisdom and beauty in these kids. But unfortunately, they don't have a chance to bring it forward in school because so much of school is testing and the adult version of the right questions, to say nothing of the right answers. I've used this art practice as meditation with adults in my university for over 40 years. I saw tremendous results because people learn once you ignite the human heart. They want to learn. Learning is as natural to us as eating. Thomas Aquinas said the proper objects of the heart are truth and justice. They're found in the heart, not in the head. And so, I wrote a book on this called The A.W.E. Project: Reinventing Education, Reinventing the Human. A.W.E stands for beginning with awe and wonder, and that's what the creative process is––kids making their own movies. But it also stands for ancestral wisdom education. Wisdom and awe go together. As Heschel said, awe is the beginning of wisdom. Awe is how we wake up. That's what a spiritual experience is. Julian of Norwich called it 'oneing.' Meister Eckhart called it a 'breakthrough.' Thomas Aquinas used the word ecstasy, which I had used before I found Aquinas's work.

But all these are efforts to name the satori experience, the experience of breakthrough and the arrival of light or intuition, and then wake up to the enlightenment of our hearts, souls, and minds. All these are efforts to name the mystical experience or what Einstein called the intuitive brain. And he said, I quote, 'I abhor American education.' Why did Einstein American education when he lived on the Princeton campus? Because, he said, we've been given two gifts: the gift of the rational mind and the gift of the intuitive mind. And the former should serve the latter because only the intuitive mind gives us values. But he said we live in a society where we honor the rational mind and ignore the intuitive mind. In other words, we're ignoring values. And another word for intuitive mind that I would use would be mysticism or mystical mind, our right brain, or our creative mind. But I figured that out early when I started teaching programs on spirituality. We couldn't do it on a European model of education, which is so rational in the head. I knew we had to bring the body back. The first person I hired to teach was a dancer who led us in circle dancing. We would begin every day at the school doing circle dancing for various traditions and art as meditation, whether you use clay or music, dance or drumming, and so forth. And we would balance that with seminars, which included books, reading papers, debate, and discussion. But that balance of right and left hemispheres of the brain worked. I tested it for over 45 years with adults and some years with inner city kids, and it never failed.

OMTimes Magazine

Sandie Sedgbeer: You created an alternative education model with the rapper and hip-hop video maker Professor Pitto, which is now running in two California schools. Matthew Fox: Yes. We got it running in Oakland. And the second year, we had a new director from Chicago. So when he and his wife returned to Chicago, he started the Chicago Wisdom Movement. And now there's a Baltimore Wisdom Project, which has the grant to take their program national. Sandie Sedgbeer: If anybody is inspired by this, what would they have to do to get your program into their schools? Matthew Fox: They could just go to the webpage, https://chicagowisdomproject.org. They have a magazine called Reimagining and many resources on their website. Matthew Fox: Essential Writings on Creation Spirituality is published by Orbis Books. For more information on Matthew Fox, his articles, books, speaking appearances, and meditations,

visit www.matthewfox.org and www.dailymeditationswithMatthewfox.org, and if you're interested in reinventing education, do check out his book, The A.W.E. Project - Reinventing Education, Reinventing the Human.

INTERNATIONAL YOGA FESTIVAL

at Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh, (Himalayas), India

MARCH 8-14, 2023 Sadhvi Abha Saraswatiji

Dr. Tony Nader

Dr. Vandana Gurmukh Gurushabd Seane Corn Shiva Kaur Khalsa Singh Khalsa

Anand Mehrotra

Sivamani

Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji

Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswatiji

Welcome All

Welcome Home Kia Miller

Tommy Rosen

Laura Plumb

Dr. Smita Naram

HS Arun

Stewart Gilchrist

Mohan Bhandari

Janet Attwood

...and more presenters from around the world

WWW.INTERNATIONALYOGAFESTIVAL.ORG The world-famous International Yoga Festival is a truly historic celebration of yoga -Total Wellness and Oneness. Join us this year from March 8-14, 2023, for another incredible celebration with the world’s leading yogis on the banks of the sacred River Ganga, in the lap of the Himalayas.

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Health & Wellness

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

11 Foods You Can Eat Right Now to Increase Your Energy

by Braxton Cosby

aven't you made any

losing weight. But beyond the Eat

progress yet with your

Less Move More stuff I've preached

fitness goals? I know

to you, there are some quick-hit

what you're thinking: The

things you can take advantage of

year has already started, and you

now to increase your energy levels

only have ten more months before

and ramp up the effectiveness of

you'll start the whole "New Year, New

your workouts and exercise routines.

You" thing again. Of course, starting

Specifically, let's look at the foods

over is rarely a good thing, and it

you eat or need to eat to increase

normally sucks when applicable to

your energy NOW!

OM TIMES | November 2022

THE LIST OF 11 FOODS BELOW

Add a sweet drizzle to anything from

WILL SUPPLY IMMEDIATE ENERGY

breakfast yogurt to afternoon tea.

SOURCES TO SPARK THAT FLAME, INCREASE YOUR ENERGY, AND GET

Bananas

YOU MOVING.

Potassium for days helps to decrease muscle cramping and improve cell

Brown Rice

metabolism. But it is composed

Rich in manganese, the mineral that

of sugars (glucose, fructose, and

helps produce energy from protein

sucrose) and fiber, which makes it a

and carbs, brown rice will help you

certain energy food. Top them with

maintain high energy all day. Served

peanut or almond butter for a well-

as a side dish with your favorite lean

rounded snack, or slice one into your

proteins (along with nutrient-packed

morning cereal for an extra boost that

veggies), this makes for a powerhouse

will keep you going until lunchtime.

lunch or dinner. Apples Sweet Potato

Not only will an apple a day keep the

High in carbohydrates and loaded with

doctor away, but it'll also give you a

beta-carotene (vitamin A) and vitamin

powerful jolt to increase your energy.

C will help fight off midday fatigue.

High in fiber, apples take longer to

Mash or cut them up, and you may

digest (metabolism ramper), giving

even be able to charm the kids into

you a more prolonged lift than many

joining in on the fun.

other fruit picks.

Honey (my favorite)

Spinach

Many of you have read my honey

An excellent source of iron, which is a

article in the past. Well, there is no

key component of energy production

mistaking the beauty of this sweetie.

in the body. Eating spinach salad for

A spoonful of honey is nature's

lunch will most likely decrease your

equivalent of an energy drink. Low

chances of an afternoon energy slump.

on the glycemic index, this natural sweetener acts as a time-released

Beans

muscle fuel during exercise and helps

Both a protein and a complex carb

replenish muscles post-workout.

are a must for both carnivores and

OM TIMES | November 2022

vegetarians. I like to call myself a

toxins within cells. Likewise, riboflavin

carni-tarian (lover of both meat and

aids oxygen-based energy production.

veggies). So toss a cup into a spinach salad or enjoy a bean burrito.

Salmon This fish is fueled with high contents

Almonds

of omega-3 fatty acids, which can

One of my favorite nuts, I can eat these

lower cholesterol and reduce your

all day, especially if I want to curve a

risk of heart disease. But this pink fish

snack attack. Almonds are a handy

also contains protein and vitamin B6,

snack to keep at your desk or in your

niacin, and riboflavin—all of which

bag, packed with protein, manganese,

help convert the food you eat into

copper, and riboflavin. Copper

energy. Top a spinach salad with

and manganese play an essential

salmon or serve it with a side of brown

role in keeping the energy flowing

rice and veggies for a power-packed

throughout the body by neutralizing

lunch or dinner.

OM TIMES | November 2022

acids that your body uses to rebuild muscle can also be found in eggs. So, whether you eat them boiled, scrambled, baked, fried, or as an omelet, don't overlook the power of the incredible egg. Okay, 11 wholesome and delicious ways to increase your energy! Excuses aside, you've got a reason to eat, finally. So, get started here and get motivated in the gym. Don't worry; I've got your back. Keep the focus… Dr. Braxton A. Cosby, the licensed physical therapist with his Clinical Doctorate from the University of Miami, has over 14 Yogurt

years of professional experience

High in calcium and magnesium

as a presenter, program facilitator,

(energy release) and replenishes

Certified Clinical Instructor, Sports

glycogen stores. Take it as a breakfast

Nutritionist, and Personal Trainer.

supplement or a nice snack.

His newest book, Fat-Free For Life: 13 Principles of Guaranteed

Eggs

Weight Loss and Ultimate Health,

I just can't get enough of eggs. But

is available now at retail stores

please proceed with caution if you

and online. A past co-host with

have high cholesterol. Containing the

Jamie Dukes on Ask The Fat

highest complete form of protein in

Doctors, Braxton now broadcasts

any food (a whopping 97% of it can be

his podcast, Fat-Free: Ask The

absorbed by your body!), eggs provide

Fat Doc. Connect with him at:

30% of your daily value of protein.

braxtoncosby.com and

In addition, all of the essential amino

facebook.com/DrBraxtonCosby.

OM TIMES | November 2022

5 Ways to Heal Panic Attacks and Anxiety

by Dr. Paul Haider

anic attacks and anxiety are prevalent. This is because people have so

1. BREATHING TECHNIQUES EASE PANIC ATTACKS AND ANXIETY

much going on that cause

many challenges. Over time, those

• Square Breathing: Simple

challenges can develop into panic

breathing in slowly for the count of

attacks and anxiety. But here are a

four, holding in that breath for the

few spiritual ways to heal and feel

count of four, and then breathing

great again.

out over the count of four is a great OM TIMES | November 2022

breathing technique that is very

imbalance of hormones in our

good for calming the mind and

brain's limbic system. Once we

body.

start thinking positive thoughts, our hormone imbalance cor-rects

• 24 Mega Breaths: Just breathing

itself, and we start to feel peaceful

in a mega breath-one, large,

again. This is true science, and the

deep breath-and slowly letting it

answer to correcting this challenge

out, and doing this 24 times, is a

is simple.

technique many finds is sim-pler than square breathing. For many people, it works wonders, and this process also helps a person

3. CHANGE THOUGHTS TO HEAL PANIC ATTACKS AND ANXIETY

to relax enough so they can get to sleep and wake up re-freshed.

Negating Negative Thoughts:

Also, once the body starts to relax,

There is a psychological and spiritual

all the stored-up muscle tension in

process that helps to balance

the neck will start to relax, cramps

our brain's limbic system. When

start to disappear, and tension

a person has negative thoughts

headaches and even migraines

run-ning through their mind, it's

start to fade away.

important to write down that thought and then refute that kind

2. CORRECT IMBALANCE TO HEAL PANIC ATTACKS AND ANXIETY

of thinking with a positive answer. For example, "Today is going to be terrible," and writing down, "Yesterday was great, and today will

Limbic System Imbalance: On

also be great." In essence, changing

average, many of us overthink

the way we think. This practice

everything. Most of this thinking

slowly aligns ourselves with positive

has nothing to do with what we are

thoughts and letting go of all

working on or the events taking

negative thinking. It is a process that

place. Thus, hundreds of thousands

takes time, but with practice, our

of thoughts run through our heads

limbic system starts to heal. We start

daily. Many of these are negative

to hear the still small voice of God,

thoughts, which create a critical

which is the positive voice within.

OM TIMES | November 2022

4. POSITIVE WAYS TO HEAL PANIC ATTACKS AND ANXIETY

override the negative in life. This is called "God Mind," about seeing the good that will come f rom everything. Suppose we train our minds to have

Seeing the Good in All Things: As

the focused hope and belief that

with thoughts, it is very easy to look

some-thing good will come from a

at other things in life and see the

negative event. In that case, we start

bad that might come from them.

balancing our brain's limbic system

However, this can change with

and feeling good again.

practice to become a person with a positive mindset! Everything that happens in life has good and bad that spreads from that single point in time.

5. FILL THE MIND WITH GOD TO HEAL PANIC ATTACKS AND ANXIETY

It may take years for good to come

Saying the Name of God Over and

about, but eventually, the good does

Over Again: Start silently saying a

OM TIMES | November 2022

personal name of God repeatedly.

These five simple techniques can

It might be Jesus, Buddha,

make all the difference in the world

Krishna, or any other name, but

regarding healing panic attacks and

it needs to be more personal

anxiety.

than just "God." Then, whenever the mind is not being used for

Paul Haider has been a spiritual

some specific purpose, fill the

teacher and master herbalist for

mind with the name of God. I

over 25 years. Find Dr. Haider on

have seen great mira-cles happen

Facebook under "Dr. Paul Haider,

when people start filling their

Healing Herbs," at the Shambala

minds with the name of God

Spir-itual Transformation

instead of in-cessant thinking.

Institute, his WordPress blog,

This technique brings about

"Relax Into Success," and at

peace beyond words… perhaps

www.paulhaider.com. Feel free

the best word that might be used

to contact him any time.

to describe it is "grace." OM TIMES | November 2022

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.

If Cardinals Appear, Your Loved Ones in Heaven Are Near!

By Medium John Holland

e're all looking for

everyone that our loved ones on the

signs from our loved

Other Side are okay and are already

ones who passed,

looking out for us. But sometimes, we

aren't we? We just

need a specific message for validation.

need a little reassurance, hope, or maybe even some personal relief

Please remember this: Your loved ones

that they're in a better place and

on the Other Side send you messages

doing well. As a medium, I can assure

all the time—all you have to do is to

OM TIMES | November 2022

be open to receive them. They use

Side and they're doing okay. It's also

all kinds of signs or symbols that can

a sign that these loved ones can see

come through in any shape or form.

you and still connect with you in

Through my decades of doing

your heart and soul.

lectures and readings and working with many clients and audiences, I've

I've heard many stories about

noticed that birds are among the top

people seeing various birds—

signs that our loved ones use to send

hummingbirds, bluebirds, and

us messages.

particularly cardinals. You've probably heard the familiar saying:

Have you ever noticed that birds

"If cardinals appear, your loved ones

appear when you're praying or

in heaven are near."

thinking about someone on the Other Side? Usually, when you see

Cardinals have a history as a

a bird, it reinforces your belief that

spiritual totem and symbol in

your loved ones made it to the Other

many cultures and religions. Native

OM TIMES | November 2022

Americans have revered cardinals for

everlasting life, persistence, and

years and associate their appearance

vitality. In Greek mythology, cardinals

with good luck. Some tribes also

symbolize energy and rebirth.

believe that these birds symbolize strong relationships and a spiritual

Even the word cardinal hints at a

connection with ancestors.

connection between this world and the next. Cardinal in Latin is "cardo,"

In Christianity, the red cardinal is

which means a "hinge on a door."

considered a spiritual messenger from

This certainly signifies that a cardinal

God. It is said that they often appear

can be the hinge or bond between

during times of stress and despair

you and your loved ones on the

and are regarded as symbols of hope,

Other Side.

OM TIMES | November 2022

JOHN'S MESSAGE

may be carrying a message from someone you know on the Other Side!

Be aware of any birds that may show up for you this month. It doesn't have

If you know someone who may like

to be only cardinals. You name it, it

to get this message, feel free to share

could be hummingbirds, blue jays,

these Soul Inspirations or recommend

blackbirds, hawks, or owls. Notice

they join my newsletter list. Equally, I'd

if this bird appears after you were

love to hear your personal stories, so

sharing a memory of a loved one or

do share them on my Facebook and

thinking about someone who passed.

Instagram pages.

Remember, all birds are considered spirit messengers. And one of them

Live a Soul-filled life!

OM TIMES | November 2022

The Coincidences that Can Change Our Lives By Sofia Karin Axelsson

Coincidences Can Change Our Lives

from grander forces moving in our lives. Others say these coincidences

ome coincidences forever

are purely an act of chance, events

change our lives, and as a

happening in an indifferent,

result, we re-arrange how

materialistic world with no other

we live, who we work with,

visible patterns than that of probability.

or where we live. Coincidences may

But what if there is something in

seem orchestrated. Some say these

between? What if we orchestrate

coincidences are fated, resulting

these coincidences unconsciously

OM TIMES | November 2022

because we need them. Maybe we are

we get to read many testimonials of

programmed to help fate along the way.

coincidences by participants in Dr.

Could there be a way to bring more life-

Beitman's studies.

changing coincidences into our lives? One story is dramatic; a time in a According to Dr. Bernard Beitman,

woman's life when she saw no other

founding father of the Coincidence

way forward than to take her own

Studies and visiting Professor at the

life. She took her father's gun, got

University of Virginia, there are powers

in the car, and drove to an isolated

in play when meaningful connections

place by a lake. Highly distressed,

are made that are perfectly possible to

with tears running down her face,

observe, but that cannot be explained

she suddenly heard another car

by either religious conjecture or

pull up beside hers. Out of the car

as being the result of probability.

stepped her brother, asking her to

In his new book, Connecting with

hand him the gun. She asked her

Coincidence: The New Science for

brother how he had known where

Using Synchronicity and Serendipity

she was and what she was about

in Your Life, Dr. Beitman explores the

to do. But her brother didn't have

role of coincidences in our lives and

any answers. He had simply known

how understanding them can help us

he had to get into the car and

find what we need to make life more

drive, but not why or even where.

fulfilling. Dr. Beitman demonstrates

Unconsciously he was pulled to the

that it is perfectly possible to observe

place where his sister was.

coincidences scientifically. But to do this, we must move beyond the

The depth of our connection to one

extremes of seeing them as the result

another seems highly influential

of chance or probability or as the result

in the frequency and intensity of

of higher powers at work.

many coincidences. As seen in the example above, this connectedness

Coincidences can include a whole

can move beyond an ordinary form

range from charming improbabilities

of communication. Dr. Beitman

to meaningful occurrences. In their

calls this interconnected web of

most dramatic form, they can even save

communication the psychosphere.

lives. In Connecting with Coincidence,

How connected we usually depend

OM TIMES | November 2022

on our time together and the degree

highly intense emotions or a long time

of shared emotions. The closer

with modest emotions.

the bond, the greater the chance we experience strange connected

The distress and need of those

coincidences together. No surprise

close to us can resonate in us

then that the kind of relationship with

unexpectedly. It is difficult to explain

the highest degree of coincidences

within the framework of an ordinary,

is between identical twins or mother

materialistic worldview, making it

and child. But lovers, siblings,

possible to sense another's need and

partners, and friends can also share

even to come to the rescue. Strange

strong coincidences. It can result

coincidences can also occur for

from a relatively short time with

important life opportunities of a much

OM TIMES | November 2022

more positive nature, such as romantic

the wedding of her widowed mother.

meetings. Connecting with Coincidence

When they parted, they exchanged

is the story of Jerry and Rita.

phone numbers. Rita asked him to wait for her to call: she was in the

Jerry met Rita on a flight to Los Angeles.

middle of a separation. Two weeks

He had attended his father's funeral and

later, she called, and their romance

delayed the trip one day to visit a friend.

took off. They married in 1973 and

This particular flight was routed through

are still a happy couple. For a long

Chicago. When passengers boarded the

time, Jerry thought that the meeting

flight in Chicago, Rita sat in his row, an

resulted from his deceased father

empty chair between them. They talked

helping him from the other side. But,

the rest of the flight. Rita had attended

with time, Jerry has increasingly come

OM TIMES | November 2022

to believe that he and Rita had an

human GPS creates coincidences

active role in their meeting.

in our lives can greatly enhance our understanding of how we contribute

According to Dr. Beitman, there are

to opportunities as they unfold.

several ways to increase meaningful coincidences in our lives. Keeping our

Maybe it was neither chance nor faith

minds open to them is one way. Doing

that created the coincidences of a

something out of our ordinary routine

brother being able to save his sister's

is another. He means that our wants

life or Jerry and Rita finding their

and needs help create Coincidence but

soulmate. It could rather be that they

that our real needs are not something

were guided by something inherited

we are always conscious of. It is possible

in all of us. This yet-unexplained but

that many "...people really do know

totally natural inner-knowing made

they will meet someone, but don't

them seek out the right place and the

consciously know that they know."

right time. I find this prospect much more exciting than the extremes

In both stories above, the brother who

of fate or chance. When it comes

presumably saved his sister's life and

to an understanding of meaningful

the couple sitting beside each other

connections of Coincidence, we are

on the flight, there is really no rational

but at the frontier of new science.

explanation for how they could find the right place and the right time

Sofia Karin Axelsson is the author of

that so profoundly influenced their

two books on Old Nordic spirituality

lives. Rather than falling back on an

(2013 and spring 2016). She is

explanation that involves the guidance

writing her third book for release

of divine forces, there could be totally

in the United States, holds courses

natural forces at work, forces that we

in goddess power and women's

are just beginning to understand. Dr.

self-empowerment, and writes

Beitman has presented the hypothesis

articles for spiritual magazines. She

that all people have an inborn, brain-

runs LangevinAxelsson Marketing.

related Global Positioning System

Contact her at: sofiakarinaxelsson@

that draws us to situations where we

gmail.com, and connect on

need to be or to people we need to

Facebook at: facebook.com/sofia.

meet. Observing how our personal,

axelsson.98

OM TIMES | November 2022

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

OMTimes Magazine

OM Living For those living a more Conscious Lifestyle

Six Ways to Be Mindful, Even With a Busy Life by Arien Smith

OM TIMES | November 2022

How Can I Be More Mindful with

least five minutes, let's pay attention

Such a Busy Life?

to the tastes, textures, sounds, sights,

and sensations of eating. any of us are career busy bodies, swept

Let's bring regular awareness to

up with our family's

the act of brushing our teeth. This

needs, students

is (hopefully) something we do each

racing to complete assignments

day, so it won't add a second of time

or entrepreneurs. Yet, as spiritual

to our busy schedules if we mindfully

individuals, we often need to

experience this routine of dental

stretch beyond traditional time

hygiene. Just like conscious eating,

management to include a strong

let's pay attention to the sensations

foundation of mindfulness in

and sounds—the full experience of

our own lives. Doing so carefully

brushing our teeth is actually quite

examines how we could increase

engaging. Becoming absorbed in

awareness without adding time

the moment of this traditionally

to our already full schedules. Here

mundane task transforms the

are some ways to foster a regular

experience. It will take on a new

mindfulness routine, even with

dimension and help to increase

minimal minutes to spare. Give them

our overall sense of mindfulness.

a try. The results are amazing!

There's also a way to try this while showering.

Six Ways to Be More Mindful... We can give ourselves permission Take at least five minutes of

to experience emotions when they

lunch break to eat without any

arise. Coworker cause some anger?

distractions. Then, when we put our

Disappointed about something at

phones down, turn off our computer

home? Instead of drowning out

screens, and simply sit with our food,

these feelings with more work, let's

we'll experience lunch in a new way.

pause for thirty seconds and feel

We can taste excitingly once we give

the emotions. No need to act on

ourselves the space to fully feel what

them. Just feel. Where is the tension

it's like to eat. So instead of shoving

in our bodies? How do our minds

that food down our throats for at

keep trying to escape the feeling?

OM TIMES | November 2022

Thirty seconds isn't much to ask

must pay attention. At least for today, we

for, and we'll deepen our personal

can keep our eyes open.

emotional intimacy with this tiny act When next talking with someone, pay

of awareness.

full attention to the conversation. We Pay attention to the light around

can ask our thoughts to step aside and

the world. Light is magical, casting

allow us to engage completely with the

so much beauty in our everyday lives.

other individual. Pay attention to their

How beautiful do a car's headlights

eyes, facial expressions, and what they

cast on a tree branch look? Or the

are saying. Follow the advice of taking

sun peeking through the tiny slits in

a couple seconds before responding,

the blinds? Even artificial light can

ensuring that we fully listened. Most of

be wondrous to observe, but first, we

us listen to respond. But, we don't listen

OM TIMES | November 2022

just to hear. Start to change this and marvel as all relationships deepen and focus increases! The digital age has caused many great technological advancements, but it's also detracted us from living mindful lives. So the next time we're waiting for something and want to pull out our phones to mindlessly scroll through a feed, let's pause and resist the urge. If we give ourselves at least one minute to just breathe, observe the sounds around us, and relax into what it feels like to be waiting, we can foster mindfulness. Waiting isn't as dreaded and dull of an experience as we think. The world around us is often more engaging than the flow of digital news. Mindfulness doesn't require many of

Most likely, it will be positive and

us, just a few moments of awareness

enriching!

that will quickly grow into a deeper love for the world around us. Once

Arien Smith is a mindfulness

we have these six tools, we must

coach and Reiki practitioner,

use them to be more mindful and

who is dedicated to showing

witness the profound impact even

others how to create conscious

the smallest changes can make. Most

lifestyles through his business,

ask for mere moments of our busy

We Are All Sacred Beings. He

time, which can really enhance our

is also an activist and survivor

life experience. Some of us are unable

and has used his experiences to

to start a regular routine right away,

holistically heal others. If you'd

so in that case, let's pick at least one

like to reach him, head to

of these ideas and try it for a week.

www.weareallsacredbeings.com.

OM TIMES | November 2022

Counting the Good in Your Life by Maria Khalife

"When I started counting my

our lives, we can guide, direct, and

blessings, my whole life turned

select what we will have and what

around." — Willie Nelson

we will set aside.

e were born with two incredible freedoms: the

ACCOMPLISHMENTS COMPRISE THE GOOD IN OUR LIFE

freedom of will and

the f reedom of choice. When we

Because of the phenomenal

learn how to use these freedoms in

accomplishments made in our

OM TIMES | November 2022

lifetime, the exponential growth of technology, and the enormity of

SOME OF THE GOOD WE DO EVERY DAY

personal wealth, we may think that if we haven't manifested extraordinary

You can breathe in and out. Now

success, we have nothing to call good

that may seem silly, but imagine the

in our life.

alternative! Aliveness is so wonderful all by itself. Life is such a blessing.

I beg to disagree. The accomplishment of all big things is composed of

You can see. Observe the beauty

hundreds of thousands of small

in nature, the thrill of a powerful

achievements, every one of which was

rainstorm, the sweetness of a

a crucial piece that contributed to the

newborn child, your bi-monthly

big one. So I urge you to count the

paycheck, and the gasoline going

good in your life, beginning with its

into your car. You can watch the sun

smallest pieces. Here: let me give you a

come up and then set in the evening.

few examples.

How lucky you are. OM TIMES | November 2022

You can feel it. Feel the crispness of clean sheets on your bed and the

MORE OF THE GOOD FOR WHICH TO BE GRATEFUL

sun warming your skin and scalp. You can feel the breeze blowing

You have enough. You have

your hair back off your face and

somewhere to sleep, clothing to wear,

the softness of our child's hand

food to eat, friends who care about

holding ours. We can sense our

you, a job to perform, a spouse who

food digesting in our belly and if

loves you, a sun to light the day, and a

someone looks at us in a crowd. You

moon to light the night. We also have

can feel who's calling you when the

fresh air to breathe, movies to watch,

phone rings. The feeling is such a

and music to listen to. If all this isn't

valuable sense.

enough, we can create more. OM TIMES | November 2022

We can exercise choices. We get to choose whether to get out of bed,

OUR LIFE LESSONS ARE PART OF THE GOOD

choose what to eat, and what clothes to wear. The radio station is often our

You learn from your mistakes.

choice. We choose who our friends

See clearly that "If it's going to be,

are and which one to designate "best."

it's up to me" and no one else. You

When something is no longer preferable,

recognize that life's problems are

we choose what will replace it. This

blessings in disguise. When we

includes what kind of car we drive, who

change our focus from blaming

we marry, and how many children we

another to assuming responsibility,

have. You have millions of choices to

we learn from our problems. We

make across the years of your life.

begin to make choices and carve

OM TIMES | November 2022

out new ways of being. You have

I did. We no longer have to fear

survived all your problems.

being bombed today, shot at, or arrested. You carry your confidence

Today, your life is safe. You may

and esteem, making you feel safe.

have made it through the war as

With a stable environment, our drive

OM TIMES | November 2022

to and from work is safe. Your house is safe, as are our friends. We live

IS THERE MORE GOOD TO CONSIDER?

by our values, boundaries, and our sense of self. Imagine not having

There is much more to add to our

this wealth?

"My Life is Good" list. Oh, here's another one: you can read this.

DREAMS AND HEALTH TO CARRY US THROUGH

You've got a lot more going for you than many other folks, so be grateful.

Your dreams carry you beyond today. No matter how far

Soufra Daimeh and Maria

you've come, how much you've

Khalifé are synonymous in

accomplished, and how much you

the Middle East with flavor,

must enjoy, there is always more.

inventiveness, and fun. Her

You aren't grasping or greedy

magazine Soufra Daimeh and

about getting more, but you know

her cookbooks continuously

it's there if and when you want

inspire women. Going beyond

some. We allow our dreams to

her television and radio career,

arise knowing we can make them

she expanded her life purpose

manifest and come true, and you

to include helping others to

have the talent, the knowledge, the

live a masterful, successful life

ambition, and the will to have what

led by her own example and

you want.

accomplishments. In 2008, she created The Change Coaching

You are healthy. And you might not

Institute (CCI). At CCI, those who

know this, but I'm about to share it

wish to accelerate their growth

with you. But please consider it: You

on The Path or to foster a new

are healthy at your core. It is your

career by becoming a Change

nature to be healthy. How can you

Coach learn universal, spiritual

be sure? If you manifest sickness,

principles to reach maximum

the first instinct is to return to

potential through discovering a

health because health is your norm.

truly dynamic and authentic self.

It's always in there waiting for you to

changecoachinginstitute.com

return. OM TIMES | November 2022

FENG SHUI Brighten Your

HOLIDAYS Harmonize your Environment with Feng Shui Tips

Omtimes.com- October 2022

Feng Shui

The year end brings no greater pleasure then the opportunity to express to you season's greetings and good wishes. May your holidays and new year be filled with joy. Charles Dickens

With the arrival of Christmas, more than in other celebrations, it is common for us to make special decorations in our homes, resulting in the insertion of several new objects that will act on the subtle energies present there. So, learn more about how decoration objects from this festive season can influence your life and how to make a more favorable balance. At this time of year, Feng Shui inspires everyone to eliminate excesses and everything unused. This movement allows energy to circulate, and a little void flows into the environment, allowing new energies to go through.

The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.

Oprah Winfrey

OMTIMES.COM- OCTOBER 2022

For Feng Shui, the important thing is to use the theory of the Five Elements of Energy represented by Fire, Water, Earth, Metal, and Wood. The Five Elements are represented as follows: Fire Element: represented by the triangular shape (Christmas tree), stars, bows, candles, lamps, flashers, and by the color red and all the decorations of this color. A dessert like a strawberry shortcake or a berry salad will become the present element at the table. Red is the color of life, and in addition to representing the fire element, it concerns growth, happiness, vitality, and joy.

Balance and Joy!

Note: The Christmas tradition is rich in the color red, and overuse in decoration can result in imbalance, emotional outbursts, and irritation among family members. Wood Element: Represented by the natural Christmas tree (pine), wooden objects, and the green color represents balance and discernment.

OMTIMES.COM- OCTOBER 2022

Earth Element Represented by typical fruits such as peaches, oranges, grapes, and plums. In addition to representing the earth element, these fruits symbolize wealth and abundance and attract prosperity. Arrangements of natural or artificial flowers and by the yellow color.

Metal Element: Represented by metal ornaments such as bells, cutlery, white plates, napkins, and gold, white and silver ornaments. Gold and silver color represent money and fame and reinforce intuition.

Water Element: Represented by transparent ornaments such as glasses, drinks, water glasses with candles, glasses, mirrors, and translucent accessories. Also, the blue color represents spiritualism, pondering, reflection, faith, constancy, faithfulness, and appeasement.

Other colors are also linked to Christmas Pink or Rose color: It represents love, joy, happiness, and romance and elevates the mood, so it is a very healthy color to have around you at this time of year. Purple: This color is associated with high ideals, loyalty, and truth, the color of high nobility indicating power, wealth, and fortunes.

OMTIMES.COM- OCTOBER 2022

Where to Assemble the Christmas tree? The tree belongs to the wood element in Feng Shui. It should be placed in an area of your home compatible with the wood element, where it can benefit and maximize good energies. The best sites for your Christmas tree are the guides of prosperity, family, and spirituality. Placing the tree in this gua will maximize the good energies of this element and this area of your home. Suppose you put your tree in another gua. In that case, it doesn't mean it will create negative energies as long as you are careful with the colors and decorations you use. Other Feng Shui tips for your Christmas Decorate the front door with a wreath, Christmas stockings, and others to attract the good energies of the season and the power of unification and alliance between the residents. Use candles to keep your home's energy fresh Use scented oils and incense in the various areas of your home Decorate your home with Plants, and choose at least one purifying plant for the interior of your home Check the house's flashing lights and light bulbs and see if they are all working. If you find any burns, replace them. Light strengthens yang energy, which is responsible for attracting good luck energies into our lives. Flowers combined with herbs in the entrance hallway will positively welcome and bring nature's energy into the house.

OMTIMES.COM- OCTOBER 2022

INTERNATIONAL YOGA FESTIVAL

at Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh, (Himalayas), India

MARCH 8-14, 2023 Sadhvi Abha Saraswatiji

Dr. Tony Nader

Dr. Vandana Gurmukh Gurushabd Seane Corn Shiva Kaur Khalsa Singh Khalsa

Anand Mehrotra

Sivamani

Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji

Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswatiji

Welcome All

Welcome Home Kia Miller

Tommy Rosen

Laura Plumb

Dr. Smita Naram

HS Arun

Stewart Gilchrist

Mohan Bhandari

Janet Attwood

...and more presenters from around the world

/IntlYogaFest /InternationalYogaFestival

#IYF2023 #IYFPARMARTH

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 other’s existence in a meaningful way.

How do People Find Their Soul Mate?

By Ascending Hearts

n my last article, “Ignorance: The

in life: Avidya(ignorance), Asmita (ego),

Root of All Suffering,” we discussed

Raga (attachment), Devesha (aversion),

the first of Rishi Patanjali’s Five

and Abhinivesha (fear of death).

Afflictions (Pancha Kleshas) of

Humanity has lost its vision due to this

Mind. Patanjali, who showed the world

clouded state of mind brought about

the path of Yoga, talks about these

by these five afflictions. Therefore,

five afflictions as the root of all pains

understanding them as the most

OM TIMES | November 2022

significant aspect of Yoga can help

developing a lasting bond. The most

us find our way through our current

important thing for most people is to

jungle state of mind.

find a special partner or companion with whom they can feel safe and

The main reason we incarnate into this

comfortable.

plane of existence is to understand The child is born into this world and

and master all forms of love.

learns to feel loved through the love One of the ways is to experience

of parents and family members.

a partner's unconditional love, a

But early on, because she wants the

relationship in which we learn to love

exclusive love of her parents, she

each other intimately, totally, and

learns to manipulate situations and

completely.

feel jealous, be possessive, hate, and get revenge. Ultimately losing the

For that to happen, we need the right

feeling of knowing how to fulfill this

kind of Soulmate.

desire to love in the highest and best way.

You know you've found your Soulmate when you're with someone who helps

We long for Love and Understanding.

you be the best version of yourself. The desire for a soul mate is the

~Richard Bach

ageless need to become a divine But what exactly is a soul mate?

couple whose union draws new life into the world.

There are several different ideas and concepts. For most people, the Soul

Seen in this context, finding your

Mate is someone they already knew,

Soulmate has more profound

possibly in a past life or that we already

ramifications than a purely romantic

loved in another time, place, or even in

desire. A soulmate union is about

another dimension.

creating an energy that is a candle to bring enlightenment to the world.

Most people simply want to be with someone in a relationship they can

Through relationships, we have

trust to walk their life's journey,

a great opportunity to expand

OM TIMES | November 2022

our loving consciousness. Still, at

You must also be physically

the same time, we can develop a

attracted to your Soulmate's

dependence on the other.

meeting.

Sometimes, we wish to over-control our partner to dominate and control

If you're not, is there something

the situation, thus believing we can

missing?

maintain control of the relationship. Understand that people are Suppose the environment in which

sensitive, and communication can

the person grew up needed to be

occur through visual, sound, or

cold and self-sufficient to meet

chemical signals, through how we

their needs. In that case, they

release our pheromones to each

could maintain an indifference

other. Pheromones are odorless and

and coldness towards the other,

invisible chemical substances that

and for protection, affective lack is

modulate communication between

manifested.

individuals of the same species. OM TIMES | November 2022

You must also be physically attracted

But, as soon as we begin to grow

to your Soulmate.

close to someone, we may start to struggle.

Everyone looking for a Soul Mate has some points in common: they believe

As we start a relationship, we

they have lived other lives, and they

naturally begin fighting and drifting

believe they will meet again. This is

apart. We use fighting to avoid

the consistent belief that we all have.

getting incredibly close to our partners. However, while we are

So it is very likely that we know other

struggling, they cannot fully know us.

souls from life before this one. If you start to believe that you can But to really fall in love entirely, you

trust someone and know who to

must be able to trust someone. So

trust and when to trust, things

we started with what we thought

will change if you are in the wrong

was possible in a romantic situation.

relationship.

OM TIMES | November 2022

Now, if you work on yourself and you're

How do people find their soul mate?

in a relationship where someone loves you, things will change. It's probably

You can find soulmates all the time.

going to improve the relationship a

Most people have more than one. Do

lot. Working on issues that prevent

you have to have a soulmate to be

you from loving and being loved

happy? Of course not!

completely will change relationships. The best time to find a soul mate is "I feel like a part of my soul has

when you love yourself and are proud

loved you since the beginning of

of who you are. When you love and

everything. Maybe we're from the

know yourself, that's when you're

same star."

ready for your most compatible

— Emery Allen

Soulmate. OM TIMES | November 2022

When you feel like you don't need

To fall in love entirely, you must be

another person to complete your

able to trust someone.

life, this is the appropriate time to bring your most compatible soul

What paralyzes you is the fear that

mate into your life.

someone knows you thoroughly,

You need to naturally project the

that they know everything about

frequency of abundance, so the

you. If the other know you more

universe will match the frequency.

deeply, can it hurt them?

Otherwise, you will vibrate to a frequency of Incompleteness.

Can they break your heart or take advantage of you?

This is because you will signal to the universe that you truly love

Can they take away all your power?

yourself and are ready to share

So it's best to keep them at bay!

with someone like yourself. These are massive blocks. It's What qualities make you an

not the fear of looking for your

amazing person and an ideal

Soulmate and never finding them,

partner?

but rather the fear of finding them and having to trust them.

Most people are unique, beautiful, and wonderful people, but they

Many beliefs that are in the

feel that their Soul Mate will never

subconscious can keep you from

find them.

finding your compatible Soulmate and trusting that your Soulmate

You may not think you are not

can love you.

good enough. But, what must be known is that you are good

Many people give up on finding

enough. You are handsome

soulmates and believe it is wrong

and good enough to attract

to desire romance. That's a shame.

your compatible Soulmate. And that your soul mate will find

There is a particular person

you. However, it's not just these

out there for you, whether you

thoughts that hold you back.

believe it.

OM TIMES | November 2022

7 Things Single People Are Tired of Hearing

by Marni Battista

eople who are in

understand why you're still single,"…

relationships seem to be

which leaves you thinking, "Well,

more interested in their

THANKS. If I understood why I was

single friends' dating lives

still single, we wouldn't don't have

than their own. But, unfortunately,

this talk."

with their "interest" in your love life also comes the most annoying

This was prompted by a Buzzfeed

and predictable comments, such

post listing 24 things that single

as "You're a total catch; I don't

people were tired of hearing.

OM TIMES | November 2022

First things first: There is NOTHING

any day. And you can reply with,

wrong with being single, so don't let

"Of course! Why do you think I'm

your 'Debbie Downer' friend tell you

hanging out with you?" And take it

any differently.

from us: being alone is WAY better than being miserable lying next to

Second, when someone asks you a

a man each night who doesn't love

dumb or rhetorical question about

you or no longer meets your needs.

your love life, it's absolutely okay to make them regret (a little) even asking. So let's go through a few scenarios where being witty and

3. "AREN'T YOU WORRIED YOU WON'T BE ABLE TO HAVE KIDS?"

lovingly sarcastic could stop the endless pestering.

If celebrities well into their 40s still have babies, then there's a pretty

1. "IT'LL HAPPEN WHEN YOU LEAST EXPECT IT."

good chance you can. Tell your overbearing friend that they are your lady parts, and you get to pick the

Well... not really. Let's put it this way: You're just as likely to meet your perfect match during a Starbucks run on Sunday as you are in "da

place and time to bear a child.

4. "YOU SHOULD TRY ONLINE DATING."

club" on Saturday night. So kindly let them know that you're going

When your friend perks up and

to continue living your life as you

excitedly remind you that there's this

were and look forward to meeting

new online dating, you can kindly

the right person in being the right

tell her to buzz off. We've ALL tried

person.

online dating. If you like it, you're probably still using it; if you didn't,

2. "DON'T YOU EVER GET LONELY?" (THE ANSWER IS YES.)

you don't need to be reminded. Perhaps you could even ask if your friend would be up for snapping a few photos of you during the

We all get lonely, but I'd take lonely

upcoming holiday season to use as a

over miserable in a relationship

profile pic!

OM TIMES | November 2022

5. "THERE IS PLENTY OF FISH IN THE SEA."

something wrong with someone. (On the other hand, if your date doesn't make over $100K a year and you'd be

Sure there are! However, it'll take

willing to ditch your date due to lack

about ten bad dates to have one

of funds, you may need to review your

you would consider for date number

non-negotiables. Consider flipping the

two. More fish doesn't always equal a

conversation around and asking what

better chance. Maybe consider telling

made your friend attracted to her guy.)

your friend that the phrase hasn't been popular since the '70s. And, what a great time to ask for a fix-up!

6. "YOU'RE JUST TOO PICKY."

7. "YOU SHOULD LET ME SET YOU UP…." Listen: Unless you're hand-delivering Gerard Butler, a bottle of wine, and The Notebook on Blu-ray, let's save

There's a difference between knowing

that set up for your niece. Some blind

what you want in a person and being

dates work out, but when a blind date

nit-picky because you're trying to find

goes bad, you have to be creative

OM TIMES | November 2022

to get yourself outta there. A simple "no thank you" works for that one.

Reference: http://www.buzzfeed.com/ashleyperez/ 24-things-single-people-are-tired-of-hearing The Top 10 Most Annoying Questions Singles Get Asked: Dodging the Dumb.

Sometimes it's fun to have a friend bring someone they want you to meet

World-class dating and

in a group setting, so try suggesting

relationship expert, Marni Battista,

a lower-pressure activity if they really

helps women from all over the

want you to meet someone.

world. As the founder of Dating With Dignity, and through articles

It's important to keep a positive

and appearances on top media

outlook on being single and having

publications and the Internet,

faith that you will, at some point,

her weekly online TV show, The

meet a companion or spouse. Since

Dating Den, is a popular favorite

everyone seems to be so concerned

for dignified daters. Marni provides

with your love life (more so than you),

love, compassion, support, and

it's time to get creative with your

honest guidance as you embark

responses to the generic questions

on one of life's most important,

your grandma has asked you 20

fulfilling adventures. Visit:

times. Happy dating!

datingwithdignity.com OM TIMES | November 2022

Metaphysics

Clearing Energy of Used Items

By Raymond Guzman

n a world full of consignment

person’s life or space. It is important

shops, antique shops, and

to remember that used items carry

thrift shops, rarely do we focus

the previous owner’s energy imprint.

on clearing energy that the

Regardless of the time that has

used items carry. When it comes

transpired since an item was sold,

to a great bargain, we often find

energy is still programmed into to it.

ourselves more fixated on the sale

In some cases, the energies within

rather than the energy that the used

an object can initiate a haunting of

item carries. However, that same

the person or space where it will be

energy can have an impact on a

placed.

OM TIMES | November 2022

CAN CLEARING ENERGY HELP HIGHLY SENSITIVE PERSONS?

It’s a good idea to physically touch the item by holding it in our hands and tuning into our feelings. Ask yourself how does the object make

Psychometry, a modality used for

you feel? If we immediately feel

tuning into an object and acquiring

sick or are affected physically, it is

information - such as who it belonged

possible the energy in this item

to, years connected, and whether it

needs clearing. If we are at an

carries positive or negative energy

antique shop we might also want

- can help us decide whether we

to ask the shop owner for any

should purchase an item or avoid

background information on the

it all together. This technique can

item, like who this belonged to

be developed over time using our

previously, what they know about it,

intuitive abilities and some find it

etc. The more information we have

easier, especially if they are a highly

readily available can help determine

sensitive person (HSP).

whether the item is good for us. OM TIMES | November 2022

There are many techniques for

ask specifically for their intercession

clearing energy, such as smudging.

in helping to remove any previous

We can also use sea salt or regular

energy.

salt and sprinkle it over an item to purify its energy. We can surround the used item with white light or utilize Reiki modalities. Regardless

DO USED ITEMS & OLD OBJECTS HARBOR SPIRITUAL RESIDUE?

of the technique used to clear the energy, it is important to

If we feel the energy in an object

always use prayers. The power

is causing a haunting in our house

of prayer has impact because

or space we may need to call in a

it is our communication and

medium or paranormal investigative

intentions being sent into the

team to help us assess whether the

universe that help manifest good

potential haunting is tied to the object

vibrations. When praying to the

or if this is something else. In many

archangels and ascended masters,

cases the item is either blessed or

OM TIMES | November 2022

removed from the immediate space.

best judgment with used items, and

Activity will cease and we will notice

remember the power is in your hands.

our space is back to normal. Raymond Guzman is a psychic When gifting someone one of our

medium, spiritual teacher and

personal items, it is recommended to

author. In 2015, he was voted as

use the techniques mentioned above

one of the best lightworkers in the

to clear our energy before releasing

Best Lightworkers for the American

our belongings.

Federation of Certified Psychics and Mediums. He has authored two

Living our daily lives by feeling thankful

books and the most recent is Angel

and blessed allows us to vibrate at a

Messages x 3. He has read for clients

higher level. Since our energy cannot

internationally. To learn more or

be destroyed only converted, let that

contact for a session see

clearing energy be a positive force full

psychicmediumray.webs.com, or

of love and light. Be sure to use your

email raymondguzman@hotmail.com

OM TIMES | November 2022

Synchronicities – Dance with the Cosmic Flow by Sherrie Dillard

OM TIMES | November 2022

Could It Be Choice or Synchronicities?

forgotten. They speak to the authentic self that is comfortable and at home in

e are being led.

the realm of cosmic truth. Yet, despite

A presence moving

the fact that the powerful effect

through our heart,

synchronicity can have on us, we all

mind, and soul

too soon attempt to dumb it down by

guides and directs us. Meaningful

rationalization.

coincidences or synchronicities open us to new insights and help

We want to creep back into the logical

us understand ourselves and

and the rational as if the cosmic doors

what is happening in new ways.

had not flung open. The thinking mind

Synchronicity is intuition expressed in

wants to take charge and explain away

the outer world.

the magic and unexplainable; don't let it. Instead, live with the mystery

Synchronicities are no accident. The

and allow it to flow through the mind,

universe has carefully orchestrated the

body, and spirit like a healing balm.

seemingly impossible convergences of

Synchronicities invite us to experience

things, people, events, and conditions.

life through the cosmic portal of

It does not matter how great or

connection and oneness. Soak in the

small the coincidence may be. We

deep rays of the universal life force

immediately recognize when we

current and allow it to promote and

intersect with the cosmic. Although

support aspects of self that we may

others may not always be able to feel

not always have the courage to know.

and see it, we know when we are touched by the transcendent. The

Helpful Suggestions to Increase

heart smiles, the mind opens, and

the Flow

like an Olympian gymnast, the soul Here are some suggestions that

joyously flips and leaps.

can help to increase the flow of Offering a Glimpse into a Forgotten

synchronicities:

Reality Ask for Synchronicities. Synchronicities provide us with a

Simple but true, when we ask for

glimpse into a reality that we have

synchronicities, we experience them.

OM TIMES | November 2022

As we let go of our expectations

Communicate With Your

of how and when they occur, they

Surroundings.

naturally flow into our lives in

Imagine synchronicities as a

surprising ways. Just make the intent

form of communication with the

and allow the universe to manifest it.

universe. We don't always notice when the divine presence answers

Notice the Effect.

and responds to our needs and

However big, small or insignificant

requests. Synchronicities let us

they may seem, synchronicity's

know that we are known and

effect on our heart and soul is

heard. They are a calling card

what matters. When we notice

informing us that we are watched

synchronicities and embrace them,

over and that we are in the flow of

they multiply.

our soul's current. OM TIMES | November 2022

Act-On That Guidance.

coming. So say thank you, blow a big

Synchronicities alert us to possibilities

kiss, and dance with the cosmic flow of

and open us to higher wisdom and

all that is. The positive and abundant

love. Noticing and acting on them

energy of universal divine joy and

strengthens our soul energy and guides

creativity is available to us wherever

us into the positive. Even though life can

we are and in whatever we do.

be challenging, synchronicities remind us that unexpected good fortune can

Psychic and Medium Sherrie

come to us in surprising ways.

Dillard is the best-selling author of Discover Your Authentic Self,

Have Gratitude.

You are a Medium and five other

Live with the awareness that a

books. www.sherriedillard.com

wonderful, personally crafted surprise is

grace.sherrie@gmail.com

OM TIMES | November 2022

Personal Growth & Development

We grow as individuals as we face challenges and overcome life’s obstacles. This section is dedicated to helping you chart your course.

Holistic Tips to Fight Off Winter Blues

by Dr. Bradley Nelson

ith daylight hours

struggle with Seasonal Affective

growing shorter

Disorder (SAD), and women are

and daylight

more than four times as likely as

savings time

men to have it.

ending for most of us, many people have difficulty adjusting to the

As a mental health issue, SAD is

colder, darker months. As a result,

more than just being down about

an estimated 10 million Americans

the cold and gloom of the winter

OM TIMES | November 2022

months — it tends to keep you down

to be said for the comfort it brings,

and affects you day after day. If you

it can also weigh you down —

suspect you might have this disorder,

literally. The average weight gain

you should talk to your doctor.

during the winter months is 5-7 pounds. Stock your home with

If you're wondering how to beat those

healthy food choices and keep

common winter blues or looking for a

processed foods to a minimum.

way to improve your outlook (whether

While a little bit of comfort food

you have SAD or not), here are some

now and then might serve a

things you can try:

purpose, overeating it may only make you feel worse — especially if

Stay Busy — Curling up with a cup

you already tend to feel guilty when

of hot cocoa and a good book is

you eat something you're trying to

great, as long as it's giving you the

avoid. Eating healthy food makes

peace of mind you need to pull

you feel lighter, which may support

you through the downtimes. But

a more positive outlook. The winter

along with taking time to relax, try

months are drier, so make sure that

to incorporate some activities that

you stay hydrated and get plenty of

include more physicality: an exercise

Vitamin C. Do what you can to keep

group, an arts and crafts club, or

your immune system strong.

embrace the colder weather and get outside for some exercise. You can

Mind Your Emotions — Sometimes,

also boost your spirits by helping

we can overcome the negativity

others. Volunteer Yourself to help

we feel in the winter by adapting

schools or organizations in your

how we think. If we choose to work

community, such as organizing a toy

on our mindset, that can make a

drive for the holidays. There are so

difference in keeping negativity

many options, and it will be as good

at bay or bouncing back from it.

for you as it is for others.

For example, starting the day with a positive affirmation can help

Stay Healthy — During the winter

you keep your mind in a happy

months, it's easy to indulge in warm

place for the rest of the day. Your

comfort foods that aren't always the

morning routine could set you

best for you. While there's something

off on a positive or negative foot

OM TIMES | November 2022

for the next 16 hours, so be mindful

or be triggered. Energy healing

of how you begin the day. It is also

with The Emotion Code® and The

important to surround yourself

Body Code™ can help you let go of

with positivity if you want to stay

Trapped Emotions that can get you

happy. Listen to positive music that

down. Awareness of negative energy

makes you feel good. Spend time

within is the first step toward

laughing with friends and feed

clearing it.

yourself with positive self-talk. If negative emotional energy is hiding

Stay Connected — Seasonal sadness

out in your body, you may be more

can cause you to seek isolation,

likely to feel those emotions often

crawl under those covers, and not

OM TIMES | November 2022

come out until spring. However, it

could even start a winter blues group

may be easier to beat the winter

to discuss books, movies, or other

blues if you stay connected with

shared interests.

others who lift your spirits. During the pandemic, it was a challenge

Celebrate the Season — Winter

when people were urged to practice

can be a magical time, no matter

social distancing, but there are many

where you live. Making the most of

ways to stay in touch with those you

the season may help you enjoy it

care for. Catch up with old friends

and look forward to it. Those who

via social media, email, or phone.

participate in winter sports such as

Schedule phone or video calls. You

snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding,

OM TIMES | November 2022

and cross-country skiing can make

Dr. Bradley Nelson: Veteran

the most of the season. If you're

holistic physician Dr. Bradley

not into sports, you might dust

Nelson (D.C., ret) is one of the

off your guitar or piano keys and

world's foremost experts on

learn to play a few holiday songs. If

natural methods of achieving

holiday time is more about getting

wellness. He has trained thousands

together with friends and family,

of certified practitioners worldwide

you might plan a little party this

to help people overcome physical

year or volunteer your help to

and emotional discomfort by

someone else planning one. The

releasing their emotional baggage.

season is chock-full of holidays that

You can find a practitioner of

can bring you to cheer. So, decide

his methods at DiscoverHealing.

to have fun and celebrate.

com/practitioners. In addition, his best-selling book "The Emotion

It may take some conscious effort

Code" provides step-by-step

to happily power yourself through

instructions for working with the

the winter months. But, as you

body's energy healing power.

use a little mindfulness, gratitude,

A newly revised and expanded

imagination, creativity, and

edition of "The Emotion Code" is

courage, you can turn the winter

now available from St. Martin's

blues into beautiful memories,

Press. For more information and a

not just for you but also for those

free Emotion Code Starter Kit, visit

around you.

emotioncodegift.com. OM TIMES | November 2022

Insights at the Edge of Love and Death By Marcia Sirota, MD.

What Insights Does Death Provide?

Over the course of my life, I’ve lost eath is a subject most

some loved ones. It’s been painful,

people avoid talking

but I’ve learned much from these

about. We don’t even like

experiences.

to think about it. But the

truth is, everybody dies, and if we don’t

Insights into Compassion...

think about it or talk about it, we’ll never get insights or learn how to deal

I’ve learned that when you want to

with it in the best way possible.

support someone who’s critically ill,

OM TIMES | November 2022

loving them isn’t enough; you have

Insights into Being Supportive...

to meet them where they are. That means letting go of your wishful

Being supportive of someone dying is

thinking, denial, or selfish need to put

about letting go of our fears, feelings

a positive spin on things and allowing

of helplessness, or selfish needs to

the other person – the one who’s

feel like we’re “doing something” to

dying- to set the tone.

improve it. But, most of the time, the best we can do is just be there with

If they’re optimistic, be there with

them, letting them know that we see

them; if they’re sad, mirror them

what they’re going through and that

in their sadness; if they’re afraid,

we care.

acknowledge their fears; if they’re angry, validate their experience. It’s not

Small acts of kindness are better

that we encourage their suffering; it’s

received than grand gestures, and

that we’re most comforting to them

commiserating with the sick person’s

when we reflect on their experience

suffering is preferable to putting on a

back to them.

happy face.

We can be the most loving with

I’ve seen how when we allow the

someone who’s dying when we’re

other person to guide the interaction,

simply present with them, as opposed

it frees them to be authentic in every

to trying to cheer them up or take

moment. They’re able to be talkative

away their pain. The sick person

when they feel like talking, quiet when

benefits from our quiet, accepting

they have nothing to say, upbeat when

presence. That’s how we demonstrate

they’re feeling optimistic, or upset

true compassion.

when they’re in touch with their pain

It’s hard to watch a loved one suffering.

and fear.

It feels so overwhelming to know that we can’t change their situation.

Insights into Acceptance...

Sometimes, in our helplessness, we mistakenly believe that we should try

This attitude of acceptance isn’t easy

to put a positive spin on things, but

for most of us to achieve. We tend to

that’s often more for our own benefit

be doers, always focused on fixing

than for the benefit of our loved ones.

things; but death is the one thing that

OM TIMES | November 2022

can’t be fixed. It will happen on its own

used to complain to me about

terms, regardless of our input.

how annoying it was when people

We need to surrender to the reality

would come to visit her and say,

that our loved one is very ill and that at

“Everything’s going to be okay.” She

some point, maybe not immediately.

didn’t want to hear that because, for

Still, eventually, their illness will take

one thing, she actually didn’t feel

them. We don’t need to say or do

good, and also, because how could

anything to make them feel worse,

they know what was coming next?

but we also don’t have to pretend to ourselves or them that things are fine.

She didn’t want to hear people being pessimistic about her situation, but

One of my family members who

she didn’t need empty reassurances.

passed away recently from cancer

It bothered her when people tried to

OM TIMES | November 2022

We can do and should do many things to make the other person more comfortable; we can help with their pain, nausea, weakness, and discomfort. We can soothe them, comfort them, and enjoy simple things like having tea with them; we can even crack jokes with them. We can momentarily distract the person from their suffering, but we can’t run away from the truth. The sick person needs us to be real with them, not to pretend that the situation is anything other than it is. Acceptance, surrender, compassion, and love. Maybe a bit of courage, as well. These are the things I learned when spending time with loved ones on the edge of death. cheer her up with promises that they weren’t in a position to keep.

Dr. Marcia Sirota is a Torontobased board-certified psychiatrist

Insights into Love...

specializing in the treatment of trauma and addiction and

Being with people who are

the founder of the Ruthless

extremely ill can be painful and

Compassion Institute. Her newest

frightening. We must get over our

book, Back on the Market: The

tendencies toward denial and our

Grown-up Woman’s Guide to

urges to make the pain disappear.

Great First Dates… and Beyond,

We must tolerate the fact that our

is now available on Amazon.com.

loved one is suffering and that it

hurts to watch them in pain.

newsletter: marciasirotamd.com

OM TIMES | November 2022

Books

Endless Awakening Time, Paradox, and the Path to Enlightenment

Have you awakened spiritually yet still feel stuck, as if you might never be self-realized? You are not alone. Many seekers feel dissatisfied despite years of practice. Endless Awakening reveals that the solution lies in the paradoxes of time. When you release the idea that you are on a journey, you arrive at your destination. When you accept that your journey never ends, you awaken fully and find the peace that eludes you. With an inviting, conversational style, Endless Awakening gently guides the reader to see how the paradoxical nature of time can illuminate a deeper understanding of core human issues such as emotions, identity, relationships, and death. In this book, you will learn to: • Heal emotionally by embracing the paradox that you are already whole and still healing • Be true to yourself by embracing the paradox that you are beyond time and language and a story with a past, present, and future • See life differently by embracing the paradox that the world is a mirror of your mind and a mystery you will never unravel When you embrace paradox as your path, a new relationship to spirituality awaits you.

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

Please review the

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