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Conscious mature dating involves understanding yourself, nurturing authentic relationships, and appreciating the richness of shared experiences.
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The Voice of The Spiritually Conscious Community
Meet Venus, a visionary guide whose life narrative is as unconventional as her teachings. Rejecting confinement to any societalbox,Venus’syouthwasatapestryof thrilling endeavors—from navigating the seas aboard a cruise ship to trekking through uncharted territories alone, even makingAfricaherresidenceforaspell.Her journey has always been fueled by a relentless pursuit of the unknown and a fascination with the boundless realms of possibility.
However,nothinginhereclecticadventures could have braced her for the revelations that began at the age of thirty. Venus started experiencing otherworldly phenomena, encountering spirits and extraterrestrialbeings.Thisperiodwasnot only intense but also deeply isolating, plungingherintowhatshedescribesasher "dark night of the soul." Yet, instead of succumbingtodespair,Venusembraceda pathofprofoundself-discoveryandhealing. Over the past two decades, she has masteredmorethantwentytransformative healingmodalities,includinghypnotherapy, Shamanism, Tarot, Reiki, and Access Consciousness.
Now, as the founder of Psychic University and Enlightenment Academy, Venus empowers spiritual leaders to nurture their growth and expand their influence. With over twenty years of experience in energy healing and consciousness work, she believes true leadership is born from deepening our awareness and connections, not merely from acts of doing. Venus's approach to spiritual leadership emphasizes the importance of self-expansion in harnessing and fully guiding others through their transformative journeys.
Her weekly TV show and podcast serve as a platform for Venus to share her unique insights and methods, helping spiritual leaders, coaches, and healers delve deeper into their practices, broaden their perspectives, and step into more potent expressions of their work. Join her as she explores the art of becoming, guiding listeners to elevate their gifts, amplify their messages, and create impactful experiences for their communities. Are you ready to embark on this transformative journey with Venus?
OMTimes:Howdoyoudifferentiate between your thoughts and feelings and those you perceive throughpsychicintuition?
Venus Castleberg: When it all began, I could only see—spirits, symbols, little trinkets like necklaces. It felt like playing an endless game of charades, trying to piecetogetherthemeaningofwhat I was shown. At the time, I found it frustrating, like I was always guessing.Butlookingback,Irealize thatwasagiftinitself.
If I had been able to hear spirits speaktomeclearlyfromthestart,I probably would have handed all my power over to them, believing they had all the answers instead of learningtotrustmyself.
Over time, I did start to hear things —whispers,fleetingwords—butthat wasnevermystrongestgift.
Seeing remained my primary way of connecting. And after years of practice, something else emerged… I just knew things. Information would land in my awareness, things I couldn’t possibly have known through logic or reason. That’s the funny thing about intuition— it doesn’t always make sense. It often leads me in directions I wouldn’t normally go and nudges me to say thingsIwouldn’ttypicallysay.
Myownthoughts?Theyfollowapattern. They’re logical, predictable, and built from past experiences and reasoning. But intuition? It’s wild, spontaneous, and sometimes downright illogical. And yet,whenIfollowit,lifeunfoldsinwaysI never could have orchestrated on my own.
That’s how I know the difference. My mindquestions.Intuitionknows.
OMTimes: In what ways do you ensure that your psychic insights remaingroundedandbeneficialto thoseyousharethemwith?
Venus Castleberg: When I was in my 20s, I was deeply in love with a man I truly thought I would marry. I was young, hopeful, and, let’s be honest,alittleobsessedwithfinding the one. So, like any love-struck girl looking for confirmation, I went to a psychic. She looked me straight in the eye and told me, He’s not the one. You won’t meet your husband foranotherfouryears.
And just like that, I let those words shapemyreality.Iactuallybrokeup with him because she said so. Not becauseIfeltsomethingwaswrong. Not because I had a deep inner knowing.ButbecauseIbelievedshe had some higher access to truth that I didn’t. Years later, I saw how disempowering that was, how I had handed over my choices, my future, tosomeoneelse’swords. So, when I became a clairvoyant medium, I made a promise—to neverdothattoanyone.
Now, when I give readings, I don’t tell people who they will or won’t marry. I don’t hand out timelines or winning lottery numbers. That’s not the kind of reading I do. I see dead people. (LOL) But more importantly, I help people connect to their own knowing, their own wisdom, their owntruth.
Insteadoftellingthemwhat’sgoing to happen, I ask them questions. I help them see their patterns, their lessons, and the guidance that’s alreadyaroundthem.Iremindthem thattheyaretheonescreatingtheir lives,notme,notsomeunseenforce dictatingtheirdestiny.
Psychicinsight,tome,shouldalways be empowering. It should offer clarity,notcontrol.Itshouldexpand possibilities,notlimitthem.Because attheendoftheday,whatgoodisa messageifitleavessomeonefeeling powerless?
OMTimes: Can you describe a profoundspiritualexperiencethat deepened your understanding of yourpsychicabilities?
Venus Castleberg: I was 30 when I took my Reiki Master class, excited to deepen my energy work but not expecting what was about to happennext.
I came home that evening and offered to practice Reiki on my fiancé at the time. Simple enough, right?Justsomeenergywork,some healing—nothingtoowild.
But as I was moving my hands over him, the air in the room shifted. It felt heavier, charged, like someone else had just walked in. And then I saw him—this man standing there, clear as day, watching us. I started describing him out loud: what he looked like, what he was wearing, theenergyhecarried.
My fiancé’s eyes went wide. I know exactly who that is, he said. That’s the ranch hand from my family’s ranchwhenIwasakid. Ipaused.Ishealive?
No. Andthatwasthemoment.
That was the moment I realized— Fanfuckingtastic.I’mamedium.
I’d love to say I was thrilled, that I embraceditwithopenarms,butthe truth? I wasn’t exactly overjoyed. This wasn’t what I signed up for. Seeingspiritswasn’tpartofmyplan. Butthereitwas—undeniable.
That capacity was clear, whether I likeditornot.
That moment cracked something open in me. It wasn’t just about energy healing anymore; it was about connection, about the unseen world making itself seen. AndnomatterhowmuchIwanted toignoreit,spirithadotherplans.
OMTimes: How do you approach training individuals with latent psychicabilitieswhomayinitially be skeptical or fearful of their emergingskills?
Venus Castleberg: When I first started experiencing my gifts, I wantednothingtodowiththem.I resistedthemhard—forthreeyears, in fact. I kept hoping they would just go away, that maybe if I ignored them long enough, they’d disappear, and I could go back to being “normal.” I was terrified of being seen as the crazy lady who talkstospirits.
But they never left. And the more I resisted,theworseIfelt.Istartedsinking into depression, and deep down, I knew why. It wasn’t some mystery—it was the fact that I was denying a huge part of myself.ThemomentIstoppedfightingit, theweightlifted.Overtime,theuniverse kept handing me confirmation after confirmationthatIwasn’tcrazy.Thiswas real.
SowhenItrainpeoplewhoareskeptical orafraidoftheirownemergingabilities,I startwithmystory.IletthemknowIget it.Iknowwhatit’sliketodoubt,tofear, to wish it would all just stop. But I also know what’s on the other side of that resistance—freedom,clarity,andpeace. Then I help them do the thing that changed everything for me—learning to trust themselves. Because at the end of the day, there is no one and nothing more powerful than them unless they believethereis.Theirabilitiesaren’there to control them; they’re here to empowerthem.
Andoncetheystopfighting,oncethey leaninjustalittle,themagicbegins.
OMTimes: What challenges have you facedinyourjourney,andhowhave youovercomethem?
Venus Castleberg: Probably the biggest challenge I’ve ever faced was being seen. Telling my story. Being vulnerable.Beingdifferent.
I’ve been different my whole life. I mean, my name is Venus. And what rhymeswithVenus?Yeah…Ihearditall as a kid. On top of that, I was tall—so tallthatnopantseverfitmeproperly, andIspentwaytoomuchtimetrying to shrink myself into something normal. I did everything I could to blendin,tofitin,nottostandout.
Dessert is a course that concludes a mainmeal.Thecourseusuallyconsists ofsweetfoodsandbeverages,suchas dessert wine or liqueurs, but may include coffee, cheeses, nuts, or other savory items. In some parts of the world, such as much of central and western Africa, and most parts of China,thereisnotraditionofadessert coursetoconcludeameal.
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Iplayedthemiddleoftheroad,made sure I looked good, made sure people likedme.
But my journey? It was really just me running around trying to get other people to love me… when I wouldn’t lovemyself.
So I tried everything—relationships, newplaces,newidentities.Ievenwent all-in on learning healing modalities. Twenty-five of them, to be exact. And yet, no matter how much I tried to fit in,Iwasstillme—asix-foot-tallpsychic medium who was anything but normal.Andforalongtime,Ihidthat part of myself because I was so afraid ofwhatpeoplewouldthink.
But the real shift happened when I finally stopped trying to make myself smallandstartedembracingallofme. When I stopped caring if people thought I was weird. When I let go of needing to be liked and just loved myselfinstead.
And just to make sure I really got the lesson, I wrote a book—telling all my secrets—so I could stop carrying the weight of what people might think of me.
Now?Iknowthatbeingdifferentisthe gift. And the more I embrace it, the freerIfeel.
OMTimes: How do you integrate different psychic abilities in your practice, and how do they complementeachother?
VenusCastleberg: WhenIfirststartedonthisjourney,Iwassearchingfor wholeness—piecingmyselftogetherthrougheveryhealingmodality,every spiritualpractice,everyinsightIcouldfind.Ididn’trealizeatthetimethat everythingIwaslearningwasn’tjustforme—itwaspreparingmetohelpothers findtheirownwaybacktothemselves.
Now, when I do life discovery readings, I don’t follow a strict formula. Sometimes numerology speaks the loudest, sometimes tarot offers the clearest message, sometimes spirits on the other side step in with exactly what someone needs to hear. And sometimes, all of it weaves together seamlessly, creating a reading that’s as unique as the personsittinginfrontofme.
That’s the beauty of having so many tools—intuition guides me totherightoneinthemoment.I don’t have to choose between them; they work together, complementing and expanding thepossibilities.
And it’s the same with Psychic University. I created it so I could facilitate, not just teach—so I couldsharefromthewidevariety of experiences and trainings I’ve gathered over the years. Every person who walks through those doors (or Zoom screens) is different, and I get to draw upon everything I’ve learned to see what will best contribute to them,rightwheretheyare.
The question I ask myself constantly is: Who can I serve, and how can I servethem?
Because at the end of the day, that’s what all these abilities are for—not to prove something, not to get everything right, but to be a contribution. And when I trust that, everythingflowsexactlyasit’smeant to.
OMTimes: In what ways do you maintain your own energetic hygiene and protect yourself from negativeinfluenceswhilepracticing deeppsychicwork?
VenusCastleberg: Yearsago,Ilearned atoolfromAccessConsciousnessthat completely flipped everything I thought I knew about protection. Loweryourwallsandbarriers. At first, it sounded ridiculous. Like most people, I had been taught the opposite—thattostaysafe,youhadto put up walls, create shields, protect yourself from the bad, the heavy, the dark. So that’s what I did. I built barriers, wrapped myself in energetic armor, did every protection ritual under the sun. But no matter how much I tried to “protect” myself, I neveractuallyfeltsafe.
What I didn’t realize was that those walls weren’t just keeping the bad out… they were keeping everything out. The good, the magic, the deep connection.Iwasseparatingmyselffromthevery thingthatcouldguideme—awareness.
SoItriedsomethingdifferent.Iloweredmywalls. I expanded my energy outward instead of pulling it in tight. And that’s when it clicked—awareness is the greatest protection there is. Not walls. Not shields.
It’sawarenessthattellsmenottowalkdownthat alley. Awareness that says this business deal isn’t right. Awareness that nudges me to trust someone—or to walk away before my mind can evencatchup.
So now, when I step into deep psychic work, I don’t hide behind barriers. I expand. I become bigger than anything that could possibly harm me. And in that space? There’s no fear. Just knowing.
OMTimes: Could you share an experience where you felt your abilities enabled a significant transformationorhealinginanotherperson?
Venus Castleberg: Recently, I met a woman who is a speech coach. We were just having a casual conversation about my story—how I became a psychic medium, how I lost my dad ten years before my gifts fully opened up. It wasn’t a reading, just me sharing my journey. A week later, when we met again, she looked at me differently—softer, like something had shifted. Thenshetoldmewhathadhappened.
Shehadlostherdadalmostayearago,andinall that time, she had never seen him, never heard him, never felt him. It was like he was just… gone. But after our conversation, something cracked open. The very next day, her daughter looked at herandcasuallysaid,Grandpaishere.
Andthen,thatnight,justbeforeshewent tosleep,herdadcametoher.Sheheard him. He told her he loved her. That he waswithher.Andjustlikethat,sheknew. She thanked me—not for giving her a message, but for simply opening her up to the possibility of hearing from him. That alone was enough to create a deep healingforher.
It was one of those moments that reminded me of something I’ve seen again and again—sometimes I don’t even have to try to activate someone’s gifts or awareness. Just being in my energy, just sharingmystory,isenoughforsomething insideofthemtoawaken.
I used to think transformation only happened through direct teaching, but now I see it happens in the most unexpected ways. A conversation. A presence. A moment of knowing that ripplesoutandchangeseverything.
OMTimes: Can you start by explaining what it's like to channel non-human beings?Howdotheseexperiencesdiffer from more conventional psychic interactions?
Venus Castleberg: Channeling nonhuman beings is… different. It was expensive. It’s like stretching beyond what my mind thinks is possible and steppingintosomethingfargreater.
When I connect with The Collective—a groupofbeingsfromtheSyrianCouncil— it’s not like a one-on-one conversation with a spirit or a loved one who has passed. There’s no singular voice, no distinctpersonality.It’sapresence,avast consciousness that speaks not in words but in energy, in knowing. But here’s the interesting part—they simplify things for me. They know human minds love structure, love stories, love something to holdonto.
So, when they communicate, they often give me metaphors or visual stories to help translate what they’re sharing into something I can actually grasp. It’s like trying to explain quantum physics to a toddler—you don’t start with equations; you start with a simple idea, something relatable.Theydothesameforme.
And the messages? They aren’t about separation, hierarchy, or who's from where. They speak of unity. Of rememberingthatwearenotalone,that we never have been. That the idea of “otherness” is just an illusion we’ve boughtintofortoolong.
Unlike conventional psychic interactions —where I might see, hear, or feel something specific—channeling them is more like stepping into a current of energy and letting it flow through me. There’snoeffort,noforcing—justopening, receiving, and allowing their wisdom to becomewords.
AndeverytimeIdo,I’mreminded…there issomuchmorethanwhatwesee.
OMTimes:Whatwasyourfirstencounter withextraterrestrialconsciousnesslike, and how did you come to realize the nature of the beings you were communicatingwith?
Venus Castleberg: The first time I knowingly encountered extraterrestrial consciousness, I wasn’t in some deep meditation or staring up at the stars. Nope—Iwasinchurch.
Ihadjustlearnedhowtopracticeseeing thespiritualworldwithmyphysicaleyes, so I was playing with my awareness, lettingmyvisionsoften.Andthat’swhenI saw her. A 3.5-foot pink alien, standing rightthere.Inchurch.
I froze. My mind scrambled to make senseofit.What.The.Hell?
I was shocked, uncomfortable, and honestly,questioningmysanity—untilmy friend sitting next to me casually looked over and said, Oh yeah, that’s Grandma. Likeitwasthemostnormalthinginthe world. He had a lot of experiences with extraterrestrials, so if he wasn’t freaking out, I figured maybe I didn’t need to either.
Shedidn’tspeaktomethen,atleastnot inwords.Butshewaskind,gentle,happy that I could see her. And that moment crackedsomethingopeninme. Itwasn’tuntilyearslaterthatIconnected with The Collective—beings from the Syrian Council who now communicate throughme,downloadingmessagesthat Iusuallyreceivethroughwriting.Atfirst,I questionedeverything.
OMTimes: How do you navigate the challengesthatcomewithunderstanding and translating the messages received from these non-human entities into conceptsthathumanscanunderstand?
VenusCastleberg: I wouldn’t actually say it’s challenging to translate their messages —it’s more like a dance, a playful exchange. Theymakeiteasyforme,oftenspeakingin metaphors, weaving humor into their wisdom, and reminding me (constantly) that humans take everything way too seriously.
One of my favorite messages from them was about trust. They said, Do you plant a seed and then keep digging it up to check ifit’sgrowing?Ordoyoujustrelaxandletit growatitsownpace?
That hit me. Because, let’s be real, humans are notorious for wanting instantresults,proof,validation.Butthey remind me—again and again—that the universedoesn’tworklikethat.It’sabout flow,timing,trust.
They simplify things because they know our minds love to overcomplicate. They don’toverwhelmmewithdense,cosmic downloads that would take me years to decipher.Instead,theymeetmewhereI am, using symbols, humor, and stories that make their wisdom click in a way that’seasytosharewithothers.
So, for me, it’s not about struggling to understand. It’s about listening, allowing, and trusting that whatever needs to come through will come throughinthewayit’smeantto.
OMTimes: Could you share how these psychic experiences have influenced yourviewoftheuniverseandourplace withinit?
VenusCastleberg: WhenIfirstbecamea psychic medium, it wasn’t just about talking to spirits—it was deeply healing for me. Before that, all I had to make sense of the afterlife was the fear-based teachingsofreligion—heaven,hell,anda whole lot of uncertainty about what actuallyhappenswhenwedie.Iusedto think that when a person crossed over, theyjustmagicallybecameenlightened, instantly wise and evolved. Turns out… not so much. Spirits carry their personalities, their quirks, even their unfinished business with them. Death doesn’t erase who we are; it just shifts ourperspective.
Butthebiggestshiftformewasn’tjust inunderstandingtheafterlife—itwasin understandinglifeitself.
I’ve had the privilege of seeing how we are all connected, not just in some abstract spiritual way, but in a very real, almost scientific way—like neurons in a massive cosmic brain,eachofuslightingupandsendingsignalsacrossan infiniteweb.I’veseenhowweareallindividualcellsinthe body of God, each playing our unique part, each vital to thewhole.Andatthecoreofitall?Thesamegoldenlight energy,pulsingthrougheverything.
It changed everything for me. There’s no true separation. Nooneiseverreallyalone.Weareallone,eachexpressing that oneness in our own way, just like different cells in a body performing their unique function. Some are healers, some are protectors, some are creators, but we’re all part ofsomethingvastandinterconnected.
And once you see that, really see it, you can’t unsee it. It changes how you move through the world. You start to realize that every interaction, every relationship, every challenge is just another thread in this intricate, beautiful webofexistence.
OMTimes: Regarding psychic abilities, what unique or unconventional skills have you developed through your interactions with extraterrestrial and non-human beings?
Venus Castleberg: Honestly? Probably justtheabilitytochannelthem—LOL. �� But if I really think about it, it’s not just about channeling their words. It’s the way they’ve expanded my awareness, shifted how I receive information, and taught me to trust what I know without needingproof.
Their energy is different—lighter, more direct, and often playful. They don’t get caughtupindramaorovercomplication like humans do. And over time, just beingintheirpresencehasrewiredhowI perceive things. I pick up on energy faster, sense things beyond words, and often just know something before it’s evensaid.
Somaybethat’stheunconventionalskill —being able to tap into a level of awareness that goes beyond logic, beyond the five senses, and just receive. No filters. No doubt. Just an open channeltosomethinggreater. What precautions do you take to ensure that your communications with these entitiesremainsafeandbeneficial?
ThebestprotectionI’veeverfoundisn’ta white light bubble or some elaborate ritual—it’s lowering my walls and expandingmyawareness.
I learned early on that entities who are trulyheretohelpdon’tdisempoweryou. Theydon’tjudgeyou,manipulateyou,or make you feel wrong. The ones that do? Those aren’t the beings you want to be chattingwith.
So now, instead of shielding myself, I do the opposite—I expand. I become so big, so present, that anything that isn’t a contribution simply doesn’t stick. If something feels heavy, off, or disempowering, I don’t engage. I don’t fightitorfearit—Ijustseeitforwhatitis, and in that awareness, it loses all power overme.
Becausehere’sthething:awarenessis thegreatestprotectionthereis.When you trust what you know, you don’t have to worry about getting pulled into anything that isn’t aligned with you. You just navigate around it—no force,nostruggle,justchoice.
OMTimes: Have you ever encountered a formofpsychicabilityorphenomenonin your work that you believe is not yet recognizedorunderstoodbymainstream paranormalresearchers?
VenusCastleberg: Mostofwhatyousee in mainstream paranormal research is built on fear—ghosts haunting, entities lurking,somethingouttheretogetyou.
But in my experience, the only thing my gifts have ever truly given me is freedomfromfear.
I’ll never forget the moment that solidifiedthisforme.Therewasatime when I encountered what most peoplewouldcalldarkenergy.Instead ofrunning,shielding,orbanishingit,I did something completely different—I inviteditin,notinsomerecklessway, butwithtotalopennessandcuriosity. Andyouknowwhathappened?
Itdidn’tattack.Itdidn’tgrowstronger.Ittransformed.Rightinfrontofme,this heavy, dark energy shifted into tiny bubbles of light, floating gently away, thankingmeasitleft.That’swhenIknew—thereisnothingtofearaboutthe spirit realm. Fear itself is the only thing that gives these energies power. The momentyoumeetthemwithopennessinsteadofresistance,theyshift.They aren’twhatwe’vebeentoldtheyare.
And maybe that’s the phenomenon mainstream paranormal research hasn’t quite caught up to yet—what ifdarknessisn’tsomethingtofight… but something to acknowledge, to see for what it really is? What if the scariestthingsonlyexistbecausewe believetheyshould?
OMTimes: Can you describe a particularly impactful message or lesson that you've received from theseextraterrestrialornon-human contacts?
Venus Castleberg: One of the most impactful messages I’ve ever received from The Collective is simple but shifts everything—we are notallone.
Not just in some poetic, feel-good way,butinaveryreal,tangibleway.
They’ve shown me how we are all threads in the same fabric, neurons inthesamecosmicbrain,individual cells in the body of something so vastwecan’tevencomprehendit.
The separation we believe in— between humans, between beings, between dimensions—is just an illusionwe’veboughtintoforsolong thatwethinkit’sreal.
They remind me constantly that if we could truly see this oneness, therewouldbenowar,nofear,and no judgment. Because hurting another would be like hurting yourself.
It’snotaboutlosingindividuality—it’s about recognizing that we are all expressions of the same energy, playing different roles in this massive,interconnecteddance.And the moment we remember that? Everythingchanges.
OMTimes:Howdoyouhelpotherswho are just beginning to experience similarpsychicphenomena,especially those who might be hesitant or scared?
VenusCastleberg: Whensomeoneis just starting to experience their psychic abilities and they’re feeling hesitant or scared, the first thing I help them see is this—there is nothingtofear.
No one and nothing is more powerful than them unless theybelieveitis.
Fear only has power when we feed it. Everything shifts when we stop seeing our gifts as something to be afraid of and start seeing them as an expansionofwhowetrulyare.
I also remind them that it’s okay to be different. It’s okay if not everyone understands. Not everyone will, and that’s not a problem.
The real work is being willing to be yourself, even if it makes somepeopleuncomfortable.
Some people might fall away— andthat’sokay,too.
Because the right people? The ones who see you, celebrate you, and are excited about your gifts?Theywillfindyou.
And when they do, you’ll realize you were never meant to dim yourself to fit in. You were meanttoshine.
OMTimes:Whatadvicewould yougivetoourlistenerswho might be interested in exploring more about their potential psychic abilities or experiences with non-human consciousness?
Venus Castleberg: If you’re feeling called to explore your own psychic abilities or experiences with non-human consciousness, my biggest piece of advice is this—trust yourself more than you think you should. You already know so muchmorethanyougiveyourselfcreditfor.
Thatbeingsaid,havingtherightguidancecanmakeallthedifference.
I’ve had many teachers and mentors over the years, and while I would have found my way eventually, they helped me get farther, faster. The key is to find someone you truly connect with—someone who empowers you to know what youknowinsteadoftellingyouwhattodo.Ateacherwhostretchesyou,helps you see your blind spots, but never makes you feel judged or crazy. (Because let’s be honest, you probably already think you’re crazy enough. You don’t needsomeonereinforcingthat.)
To support you on this journey, I’d love to gift you my Channeling Your Higher Self webinar https://bit.ly/CYHSP —it’s designed to help you tap into your own knowinginawaythat’seasierandmorenaturalthanyoumightexpect.Andif you’relookingforsomethingdeeper,myPsychicUniversityprogramishereto help you embrace and enhance your gifts while realizing that you are not alone (or crazy). Right now, we have a waitlist for the next round, so if you feel pulled toward it, you can sign up for a free discovery call with me to see if it mightbeafitforyouwhenthedoorsopenbackuphttps://bit.ly/ICWVenus
No matter where you are on this path, just remember—you belong here. Your giftsaren’tamistake.They’reaninvitationtohealandbecomewhole.
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Throughout history, many ancient traditions have endured and been passed down from generation to generation, not only because of their cultural significance but also due to their proven benefits.
One fascinating practice, deeply rooted in ancestral wisdom, is placing a bay leaf under the pillowbeforesleeping.
Some may say that speaking of Bay leaves seems likeasimpleorevensuperstitiousgesture.Butthis practicehasstoodthetestoftime.Itisembraced by various cultures worldwide for its remarkable healingandrestorativeproperties.
The bay leaf, revered since antiquity for its powerfulspiritualandmedicinalqualities,haslong been associated with purification, protection, and relaxation.Itisnotmerelyanaromaticherbbuta symbolofwell-being,intuition,andinnerharmony.
The bay leaf emits a delicate yet potent aroma that works as a natural sedative, soothing the mind and body.Itsgentlefragrancecanaidinreducingnervous tension,allowingthebodytotransitionsmoothlyintoa state of relaxation. Many believe that keeping a bay leaf under the pillow creates an aura of tranquility, making it easier to drift into a deep and restorative slumber.
Traditional and holistic healing practices have long recognized the calming properties of bay leaves. The natural compounds in bay leaves, such as linalool, have been shown to help lower cortisol levels, the hormoneresponsibleforstress.Whenyouplaceabay leafunderyourpillow,youcreateanenvironmentthat fosters relaxation, mental clarity, and emotional balance, which are essential components for a peacefulnight’ssleep.
Spiritual traditions consider the bay leaf a therapeutic bridge between the conscious and subconscious mind. As tradition affirms, sleeping with a bay leaf under your pillow can induce more vivid dreams, helping individuals gain insights, messages, or clarity through their dream state.
For centuries, bay leaves have been used in purification rituals to cleanse negative energies from a space. Many cultures believe that placing a bay leaf under your pillow serves as a protective shield, warding off negative influences and fostering an atmosphere of peace and harmony. If you have been experiencing restless nights due to stress, tension, or intrusive thoughts, this simple ritual may help clear the mental clutter and restore balance to your sleeping environment.
Bay leaves have long been associated with wisdom, prophecy, and heightened intuition. Many ancient civilizations considered bay leaves sacred and used them in divination rituals. The bay leaf enhances spiritual awareness and provides subtle guidance, allowing individuals to connect more deeply with their inner voice and intuition.
Restorative sleep is not defined by the duration of the sleep but by how refreshed and energized you feel upon waking. The bay leaf aroma works in harmony with your body’s natural rhythms, encouraging a smoother and more peaceful transition between sleep and wakefulness.
Bay leaves have been revered in herbal medicine for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans used these leaves for their powerful medicinal properties.
These leaves have been incorporated into healing rituals, protective amulets, and therapeutic remedies. Traditional healers worldwide have utilized bay leaves to treat ailments, promote digestion, and even enhance cognitive function.
If you are intrigued by the potential benefitsofsleepingwithabayleafunder your pillow, here’s a simple way to incorporate this tradition into your nightlyroutine:
Select a fresh or dried bay leaf. Ensure that it is clean and free from any chemicalsoradditives.
Hold the leaf in your hands and set an intention. Whether it is for deep sleep, emotional healing, or protection, focus onyourdesiredoutcome.
Place the leaf inside your pillowcase or directly beneath your pillow before sleeping.
Asyoulaydown,takeafewdeepbreaths and allow the aroma of the bay leaf to sootheyourmind.
Though some may view this practice as esoteric or symbolic, many individuals who have embraced it report noticeable improvements in their sleep, mood, and senseofpeace.Inafast-paced,stressful world, reviving simple yet powerful ancestral traditions like this can remind us of our spiritual connection between natureandwell-being.
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Theseleaveshavebeen incorporatedintohealingrituals, protectiveamulets,andtherapeutic remedies.Traditionalhealers worldwidehaveutilizedbayleavesto treatailments,promotedigestion, andevenenhancecognitive function.
Ifyouareintriguedbythepotential benefitsofsleepingwithabayleaf underyourpillow,here’sasimple waytoincorporatethistraditioninto yournightlyroutine:
Selectafreshordriedbayleaf. Ensurethatitiscleanandfreefrom anychemicalsoradditives.
Holdtheleafinyourhandsandset anintention.Whetheritisfordeep sleep,emotionalhealing,or protection,focusonyourdesired outcome.
Placetheleafinsideyourpillowcase ordirectlybeneathyourpillow beforesleeping.
Asyoulaydown,takeafewdeep breathsandallowthearomaofthe bayleaftosootheyourmind.
Thoughsomemayviewthispractice asesotericorsymbolic,many individualswhohaveembracedit reportnoticeableimprovementsin theirsleep,mood,andsenseof peace.
Inafast-paced,stressful world,revivingsimpleyet powerfulancestraltraditions likethiscanremindusofour spiritualconnectionbetween natureandwell-being.
Ifyouareseekinganatural andeffortlesswayto improveyoursleep,ease stress,andembraceinner tranquility,thisage-old traditionmightbeexactly whatyouneed.
This article was originally published by Ignis Natura, a digital platform dedicated to sharing information on well-being and health since2010.Ifyoufound this content valuable, don’t forget to leave a positive vote and share your thoughts in the comments.
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Spirituality involves exploring one's meanings, connecting with the transcendent, purpose through various philosophical,
one's inner self, seeking deeper transcendent, and understanding life's philosophical, religious, and personal beliefs.
By Venus Castleberg
Have you ever received a gift and thought, “Okay, that’s interesting, but is there a receipt? Can I trade it in for something I would actually like or maybe even use?” Imagine getting the gift of becoming a psychic and a medium pretty much overnight, which is precisely what happened to me at the age of thirty.
My response, “Are you kidding me? I don’t want it! Take it back! I’m not doing anything with this. I will not be the crazy lady everyone talksabout.”
Well, let’s just say that the universe hasotherplans.
There was no receipt, no trade-in policy, and they never did take it back—even with my 3 yearsofresistance.
Spiritual gifts, while wonderful in many ways, canpresentchallenges.Foronething,theyare often not talked about and, therefore, viewed bymuchoftheworldasweird,strange,oreven not real. For another, to truly embrace them and use them to be in service for others requires vulnerability and the willingness to be asdifferentasyouknowyouarebuthavelikely beenpretendingyouarenot.
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What gifts do you have that you haveperhapsneveracknowledged?
Inwhatuniquewaysdoyougiveto others, to the earth, to unseen realms? How much are you resisting those gifts? How much areyouresistingYOU?
Embracing your abilities, even the crazy ones, especially the crazy ones,iskeytolivingafulfillinglife and to being the gift to the world thatyouareanddesiretobe.
Here are my top 3 tips on how to embrace your gifts, thereby embracingyou.
Before you can let your light brightly shine, you have to be honest with yourself about the gifts that you have. Acknowledging that you can talk to ghosts or perceive pain in people’s bodies or revive dying plants, etc. is likely not something you go around talking about. That is okay. At the same time, if you wish to have the joy of living and beacontributiontoothers,youdo need to tell yourself the truth about your gifts. Sounds easy, right?Itmaysoundeasy,butoften requires a bit of courage. It is not hubris to embrace your gifts. On the contrary, it requires humility andvulnerability.
Give yourself permission to be as differentasyouare
I am not exactly sure what I was waiting for with regard to finding peacewithmypsychicabilities.
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Therewasabitoftrepidationaboutwhatothers would think for sure. My name is Venus. I am 6 feet tall. I was used to standing out and being different.But,forthe3yearsaftermyfirstspirit encounter,Iwasn’twillingtobethatdifferent.
Myrefusaltogivemyselfpermissiontoembrace my gifts was costing me. I began keeping my mom,whomIhadalwaysbeenverycloseto,ata distance. I was not living with a sense of relaxation.Overall,thingsweresomewhat‘off’in my life. That all changed when I gave myself permission to be as different as I am. Your weirdness, your uniqueness, your difference is your strength. Rather than waiting for someone else to tell you that it’s okay to embrace your difference,givethatpermissiontoyourself.
You are a unique, magical, miraculous being. Yourgiftsandabilitiescreateabetterworldfor us all. Using your gifts without apology adds to the quality of your life and invites us all to celebratethemagicofliving.Lifeismeanttobe acelebration.Joyandabundanceaboundinthe Universe.Whenyouembraceyourgifts,youflow with the synchronicity and harmony of the Universe, and the entire planet is elevated to a higherplace.
If you are someone who thinks that you don’t have spiritual gifts, I can assure you do. We all do and no one's gifts are greater than anyone else's. If you are not sure what yours are, ask! “Universe,whatgiftsdoIhavethatIamnotyet awareof?”TheUniversewillshowyou.Now,tell yourself the truth about those beautiful unique gifts. Give yourself the freedom to embrace them and be as different as you actually are. Youruniquegifts,whenexplored,embodied,and playedwith,willaddjoyandmagictoyourlife, raisethevibrationoftheplanet,andinviteallof us to embrace and experience the magic of living.Letitbeso!
Learn More at Cathedral of the Soul dot Com
Conscious Living focuses on mindfulness and awareness in daily life, emphasizing sustainable practices, ethical choices, personal growth, and a harmonious balance with the environment.
Rain! whose soft architectural hands have power to cut stones, and chisel to shapes of grandeur the very mountains.
Henry Ward Beecher
In Feng Shui, rain represents the water element, which is deeply connected to prosperity and abundance.
However, while rain brings life and renewal, it also comes with challenges. Understanding how to harness its energy while avoiding its pitfalls is key. Below, we explore Feng Shui tips to help you harmonize rainy days.
Rain is essential to human life, eagerly awaited each year for its role in nourishing crops, cooling summer heat, and ushering in prosperity.
However, water can also be a doubleedged sword—bringing excess humidity, stagnantenergy,andevenhealthriskslike coldsandallergies.Tomaintainabalanced and positive home environment, consider thefollowingFengShuiprecautionsduring rainyseasons:
1. Keep Your Gutters Clean and Functional
Leaves,dust,anddebriscanaccumulatein
gutters during dry periods, leading to blockages when the rains arrive. Clogged gutters not only increase the risk of flooding but also create stagnant energy, which Feng Shui associates with obstacles andblockagesinlife.Regularlycleanyour gutters to ensure smooth water flow, allowing positive energy to circulate freely.
2.PreventMoldandExcessHumidity
Damp and closed-off areas of your home are prime spots for mold and excessive moisture buildup during rainy weather. These conditions can negatively impact both your health and home energy. Be proactive—check closets, basements, and lessventilatedareasforsignsofdampness. Considerusingadehumidifier,ifnecessary, as maintaining dry; fresh spaces will help keep the energy in your home vibrant and uplifting.
When the rain stops, open your windows and doors to invite fresh air into your home.
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Properventilationpreventsmold growth and allows for the renewal of stagnant energy. Open closets and cabinets as well, ensuring that air can circulate freely. Fresh air flow revitalizesyourlivingspaceand maintains balance, according to FengShuiprinciples.
Indoorandoutdoorplantsthrive withtheaddedhumidityofrainy weather, but they also require extra attention. While medium and large plants can enhance indoor air quality, excess moisturemayincreaseallergens, affecting sensitive residents. Ensurethatplantsdonotobstruct sunlightfromenteringyourhome, asnaturallightisvitalforpositive energy flow. If certain plants struggle with high humidity, relocate them to a covered outdoor space. According to Feng Shui, unhealthy or dying plants can attract negative energy,sokeepingthemhealthy isessential.
By following these Feng Shuiinspired precautions, you can harness the cleansing and revitalizing power of rain while protecting your home from its downsides.
Rain can be a powerful force for renewal, bringing balance, abundance, and prosperity—provided we channel its energy wisely.
HewasaspecialistinFengShui;thatistosay,hewas consultedastothecorrectubicationandorientationof housesandtemples,inrelationtothespiritsofwind andwater.
DanieleVare
Let’s not forget that In Feng Shui, water symbolizes abundance, prosperity, and energy flow. It represents the movement of chi, influencing wealth and emotional balance. Flowing water, like fountains or aquariums, attracts positive energy, while stagnant water can create blockages. Proper water placement harmonizes environments, promoting financial success, clarity, and overall well-being. Stay mindful of your surroundings, care for your home, and embrace the rain as an opportunity for transformation. Your well-beingandenergywillthriveasaresult.
Are you a compulsive hoarder? Feng Shui teaches you how to getridofexcess. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the clutter in your home? Perhapsit'stimetoembracethe ancient wisdom of Feng Shui to create a more harmonious and energizedlivingspace.
In Feng Shui, the accumulation of unused items may block the flow of Chi, or life energy, creatingShaChi,anegativeforce that impacts your environment andwell-being.Let'sexplorehow you can declutter and ensure every item promotes positivity andpurpose.
Books are doors of knowledge and gateways to different worlds. Still, they can easily pile up, gathering dust instead of being cherished. Take a moment to assessyourcollection.Whichvolumespull atyourheartstringsorigniteyourmind?
Keep those and consider organizing them in a tidy bookshelf that not only displays your favorites but also maintainsorder.
Forthosebooksthatnolongerserve you, pass them on to someone who will treasure them. This act of generosity clears your space and helpsspreadthejoyofreading.
Travelsouvenirsarevisualremindersof adventures and cultures experienced. However, an excess of mementos can lead to a cluttered and chaotic environment.
Create a dedicated display area for these cherished items, or curate them carefully to ensure each piece truly deservesitsplaceinyourhome.Before buying new mementos, ask yourself: "DoIhaveaplaceforthis,anddoesit bring me joy?" This mindful approach helps maintain a balance between cherished memories and a clutter-free home.
Maybe you collect vintage stamps, antique coins, or art pieces. Collections are a reflection of our passions. Any collection should be displayed proudly and not hidden away, forgotten in some closet. Evaluate the space you have and the value each item adds to your life. Consider rotating displays or downsizing to highlight the most meaningful pieces. This respects both your collection and the Feng Shuiprinciplesofenergyflow.
It'seasytoholdontooldnotebooks and papers out of nostalgia or the 'just in case' mentality, but these items often end up as clutter culprits. Sort through these papers annually, keeping only what is necessary or has true sentimental value. Recycle the rest, donate them to students in need, or offer them to local schools and community centers. This cleansing process not only frees up space but alsoclearsyourmentalclutter.
With the digital age offering compact and cloud-based solutions, physicalCDsandDVDscanbecomeredundant.
If you haven't used them in years, why not convert them to digital formats? Or donate them to someone who doesn't have access to online streaming services. This reduces waste, frees up space, and bringsyourhomeentertainmentsystemintothe21stcentury.
ByimplementingtheseFengShuiprinciples,you'llnotonlyminimize excessbutalsoenhancetheflowofpositiveenergythroughoutyour home. Remember, every object in your space should have a meaningfulpurposeorsparkjoy.Ifitdoesn't,consideritasigntoletgo and make room for new experiences and energies. This thoughtful approachtodeclutteringwillnotonlytransformyourphysicalspace butalsoenrichyourlife,fosteringasenseofpeaceandwell-being.
Relationships as a category examine the Relationships as a category examine the Relationships as a category examine the dynamics, challenges, and growth dynamics, challenges, and growth dynamics, challenges, and growth opportunities in human connections, opportunities in human connections, opportunities in human connections, including romantic, familial, platonic, including romantic, familial, platonic, including romantic, familial, platonic, and professional interactions. and professional interactions. and professional interactions.
By Marcia Sirota, MD.
We make three fundamental mistakes regarding communication that can really jeopardize an otherwise viable relationship.
We make three fundamental mistakesregardingcommunication that can really jeopardize an otherwiseviablerelationship.Three importantcommunicationskillscan make the difference between an unhappybreak-upandanongoing, happyrelationship.
Manyrelationshipsendwhenthey could really continue. I think a major problem is the lack of communication.
We make three fundamental mistakes around communication that can really jeopardize an otherwiseviablerelationship,and there are three important communicationskillsthatcanmake thedifferencebetweenanunhappy break-up and an ongoing, happy relationship.
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Mistake#1: Making assumptions. When we make assumptions about what our partner is thinking, feeling, or intending, our reactions are based on inadequate, false, or distorted information. Instead of making assumptions, we need to clarify what's really going on.
Mistake #2: Expecting mind-reading. When we're tiny infants, it's uncanny how our mother can almost read our minds. Without our having to say a word, our mom can tell what we need and give it to us. We should realize that it's the only time in life that this can happen and that for the rest of our life, we must clearly communicate our needs if we want our needs met.
Mistake #3: Not saying what we mean. When emotions run high, as they often can in a relationship, we're tempted to become petty, spiteful, or passiveaggressive. Instead of saying what we mean, we can be sarcastic; we can withhold information out of spite; we can even say the opposite of what we're thinking. Human beings are complicated, and often, when clarity is what's most needed, we can be frustratingly obscure. Still, if we want our relationship to last, we must resist the temptation to do any of these things.
Skill #1: Keep it clear. We don't need to complicate things when we express our needs and feelings to our partners. The clearer wecanbe,themorelikely we'llbeunderstood.
Skill #2: Be kind. When we're trying to make a point, nasty, spiteful, or disrespectfulwordsarenot acceptable. If we want to be heard and receive a positiveresponse,weneed to express ourselves in a kind and respectful manner.
Skill #3: Keep it simple. Often,whenwehavealot to say, we're tempted to say too much at once. We need to remember that if we bring up too many points, our partner can miss the main point of what we're saying. When wementiononepointata time,theotherpersonwill finditeasiertorespondto ourneeds.
If we avoid the three above mistakes and practice the three aboveskills,it'slikelythatwe'llbe abletopreventthebreak-upsthat often come from problems with communication.
Metaphysical Sciences explore the Metaphysical Sciences explore the Metaphysical Sciences explore the nature of reality, consciousness, and nature of reality, consciousness, and nature of reality, consciousness, and the universe, blending philosophy, the universe, blending philosophy, the universe, blending philosophy, spirituality, and theoretical insights spirituality, and theoretical insights spirituality, and theoretical insights to understand existence beyond to understand existence beyond to understand existence beyond physical phenomena. physical phenomena. physical phenomena.
The Moon has long been a celestial enigma,anancientguardianthatwatches overus,silentlyinfluencingthetidesof our emotions, psychology, and spiritual connection.Morethanjustanobjectin thenightsky,theMoonholdsthepower totransformourinnerworld.Whenwe understanditscyclesandsymbolism,we canharnessitsenergytobringbalance andwisdomintoourlives.
ConnectingwiththeMoonistoreconnect withanancientwayofbeing—onewhere time was measured not by the clock's tickingbutbytheshiftingglowofthe lunar phases. Our ancestors structured theirexistencearoundtheMoon,usingits cycles to guide them in agriculture, navigation,rituals,andevenmattersof theheartandmind.Thewisdomtheyheld hasnotvanished;itlingers,waitingforus tolistenonceagain.
Intoday'sfast-pacedworld,wehave driftedfromtherhythmofnature, caughtinacycleofartificialtime that values productivity over presence.Butancientcivilizations— from the Mesopotamians and EgyptianstotheIndigenoustribes oftheAmericas—knewbetter.They understood that the Moon was morethanjustalightsource;itwas amapofexistenceitself.
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Formanycultures,theMoonwas a beacon of transformation and intuition. It symbolized fertility and prophecy, shaping everything from mythological narratives to practicalsurvival.
Lunar deities were revered, and theircycleswerehonoredthrough rituals and ceremonies that sought guidance, healing, and alignmentwiththecosmos.
Despite the Moon's ancient influence, much of the modern worldnowfollowstheGregorian calendar—aconstructthatdivides time into months and years dictatedbycommerceandcontrol ratherthannaturalcycles.
This shift severed us from a deeper awarenessofourinnerrhythms.Instead offlowingwiththelunarenergies,many ofusfeeltrappedintherigidstructure of deadlines, expectations, and exhaustion.
This artificial structuring of time prioritizes action, competition, and material success while neglecting rest, intuition,andemotionalwell-being.The consequences are evident: burnout, anxiety,disconnectionfromself,anda deep yearning for something more— something ancient, something organic. TheMoonoffersusachancetoreclaim thatlostbalance.
The spirit of God, like the sun, always gives all its light at once. The spirit of man resembles the pale Moon, which has its phases, absences and returns, lucidity and spots, fullness and disappearance, which borrows all its light from the rays of the sun, and which still dares to intercept them on occasion.
TheMoon'sgravitationalforcedoesmorethanshapetheoceantides—italsopulls onthevastreservoirsofwaterwithinus.Giventhatthehumanbodyiscomposed mostlyofwater,it'snosurprisethattheMoonplaysaroleinshapingour emotions,energy,andintuitiveabilities.
Symbolically,theMoonistherealmofthesubconscious.Itslightilluminatesthe unseen,revealingwhatliesbeneaththesurfaceofourawareness.Itspeakstoour dreams,ourfears,andourdeepestdesires.Byattuningourselvestoitscycles,we gainagreaterunderstandingofourebbandflow—whentoact,retreat,plant seedsofintention,andletgo.
TheMoonhaslongbeenassociatedwithfemininity,butitswisdomisuniversal. Regardlessofgender,everypersoncarriesbothmasculineandfeminineenergy withinthem.CarlJungreferredtothisinnerfemininityastheanima,thepartof thepsycheconnectedtointuition,emotion,andreceptivity.
Beyondsymbolism,theMoon'sconnectiontofemininityisalsobiological.The menstrualcyclealignscloselywiththelunarcycle,offeringyetanotherlayerof connectionbetweenhumanbodiesandcelestialrhythms.Understandingthis relationshipallowsforadeeperappreciationofthecyclicalnatureofexistence itself.
WhenwealignwiththeMoon,we moveinharmonywiththenatural ebb and flow of life. Instead of pushing against the current, we learntosurfthewavesofenergy thateachphasebrings.Eachlunar cycle mirrors our own internal transformations, reminding us that change is inevitable, necessary,andevenbeautiful.
By following the Moon, we gain insight into how our emotions fluctuate, how our intuition strengthens,andhowourpersonal growth unfolds. It becomes a guide, a cosmic mirror reflecting theinnerworkingsofoursouls.
The Moon's journey through its phases is a metaphor for the cyclesoflife,death,andrebirth. Eachphasecarriesuniqueenergy, offering an opportunity for selfreflection, manifestation, and release.
Moon: The Seed of Potential
Theskyisdark,theMooninvisible —this is the moment of beginnings.TheNewMooninvites ustoretreat,journeyinward,and setintentionsforthecycleahead. Itisatimefor:
1.Plantingseedsofchange
2.Deepintrospectionandmeditation
3.Defininggoalsandaspirations
4. WaxingMoon:TheGrowthPhase
Embracingstillnessbeforethe action
AstheMoongrowsinlight,sodoes our energy and momentum. This phrasecallsfor:
Takingactiononintentions
Strengtheningnewhabits
Overcominginitialobstacles
Building momentum and enthusiasm
FullMoon:TheHeightofPower
The Moon is at its brightest, illuminating all that has come to fruition.Thisphrasebrings:
More Clarity, insight, and understanding
Emotional intensity and heightenedintuition
Celebrationandbegrateful Release of what no longer servesYou.
AsthelightoftheMoonfades,we areremindedthatlettinggoisjust as important as building up. This phaseencourages: OMTIMES| MARCH 2025
Rest,toreflect,andsurrender Clearingawaytheoldtomake spaceforthenew
Releasing emotional and mentalbaggage
Deepinnerworkandhealing
HowtoDeepenYourConnection withtheMoon
Building a relationship with the Moon doesn't require complex rituals or deep astrological knowledge. It simply involves attentionandawareness.
1.KeepaMoonJournal
Track your emotions, dreams, and energy levels in relation to the Moon'sphases.Overtime,patterns will emerge, offering personal insightsintohowtheMoonaffects you.
2.DiscoverYourBirthMoonPhase
Thephaseatthetimeofyourbirth reveals key insights into your personality and life purpose. Understandingthisphasecanhelp you navigate your strengths and challengeswithgreaterawareness.
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StepoutsideandobservetheMoon.Meditateunderitslight,breathedeeply,and letitspresenceanchoryouinthemoment.
4.IncorporateLunarPractices
SetintentionsontheNewMoon PerformreleaseritualsduringtheFullMoon. Alignworkandrestcycleswiththeenergy. LivinginAlignmentwithLunarCycles
TolivebytheMoonistoresistthe artificialpressuresofmodernlife andembraceamorefluid, intuitiveexistence.Itisareminder thattimeisnotsomethingtobe conqueredbutsomethingtobe experienced.
Thisteachesusthatgrowthisnot linear—itiscyclical.Thatrestis notlaziness—itisrestoration. Thatemotionsarenot weaknesses—theyarewisdomin motion.
ByhonoringtheMoon'sinfluence onourpsyche,wereclaimour connectiontothenaturalworld and,indoingso,rediscoverthe magicwithinourselves.
Personal Growth encompasses selfimprovement and emotional, mental, and spiritual development, focusing on enhancing self-awareness, skills, health, and overall well-being.
Limiting beliefs may be blocking your personal and spiritual growth, as well as your ability to experience love fully. The beliefs we accumulate throughout our livesshapeouractions,yetit isnotexternalcircumstances that dictate our destiny—it is how we choose to navigate them. True transformation begins with belief, not behavior, contrary to what many assume. In this article, we will explore how to identify limiting beliefs and understand their impact, especiallyintherealmoflove andrelationships.
By OMTimes
Limiting beliefs are mental constructsoringrainedthoughts that prevent us from taking actionsthatcouldleadtopositive outcomesinourlives.Although thetermmaysoundreligious,itis notaboutfaithinaconventional sense. Belief is something we hold as truth deep within our being.
Thesebeliefstakerootearlyinlife, shapedbywhatwearetaught, whatwehearfromourparents, the media, and the social environmentinwhichwegrow.
They emerge from personal experiences that serve as reference points, forming generalizationsaboutlife.
Forinstance,ifachildfallsand getshurtataplayground,they may develop the belief that “playgroundsaredangerous.
If they were left waiting too long at school, they might associateschoolwithsuffering. The mind constantly makes suchassociations,butindoing so,italsounconsciouslycreates self-imposedlimits.
As children, we lack the discernment to evaluate situations independently, so werelyonteachers,family,and societytoshapeourworldview. However,thebeliefsthatserve others may not necessarily serve us. If we reflect deeply, we may realize that some of theideasweoncebelievedin no longer make sense. It is timetoevaluateandshiftour innerparadigms.
Throughout life, we accumulate beliefs about love—some that makeitseemeffortlessandothers thatmakeitfeelunattainable.
These beliefs help us from our judgments, but the danger arises when they sabotageus.Creatingmental restrictions shapes our actions,influencesourfuture, andevenimpactsourenergy field.
Here’s an exercise to reveal howbeliefsinfluenceyou:
Closeyoureyesandthink of something you believe is easy, even though others might find it difficult.
Observehowyoufeeland how you behave regarding this task or subject.
Now, think of something you consider difficult, even if others perceive it aseasy.
Notice how your attitude and emotions shift when youfacethischallenge.
This exercise highlights how fears and insecurities can control us. When you view something as difficult, you block access to your inner resourcesbecauseyourmind shiftsintoadefensivestate.
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But why does this happen? Before taking any action, our thoughts—shaped by years of conditioning—determine how we respond. These thought patterns filter ourperceptionoftheworldandcreatetherealityweexperience.
Thoughtsandwordsarepowerful.Themorewefocusonwhatwedon’twant,the more we attract it into our lives. When we constantly dwell on our struggles, we reinforcethoseverypatterns,givingthemevenmorestrength.
For many women, it is difficult to admitwhentheyareunhappyinlove. It can be painful to acknowledge a longingforameaningfulrelationship or greater fulfillment in an existing one.Societyoftendiscouragespeople from expressing this desire, making them fear judgment. But what lies beneaththesethoughts?
One of the most deeply ingrained paradigms is the belief that one cannot have love and happiness at the same time—that a fulfilling love life and a successful career are mutually exclusive. This subtle, unspoken philosophy suggests that love is secondary and that being open to it might hinder personal or professionalgrowth.
Beliefs are inherited patterns. Many people accept as truth the messages passed down by their families, cultures,andthemedia,suchas:
OMTimes | March 2025
Although many people seek love, they unknowingly keep their hearts and minds closed to it. In some cases, even expressing the desire for love invites judgment, as if wanting a deep connection was something trivial or unimportant. But love is not a mere luxury; it is a fundamental part of the soul’s journey.
Sometimes, solitude is necessary for selfreflection and healing, but it is important to examine the beliefs you hold about love and relationships. Take a moment to reflect on thefollowing:
•Whatareyourcorebeliefsaboutlove?What messages have you internalized over the years?
• How do these beliefs exist in your subconscious? Are they part of your automaticthoughts?
• What do you say most often about love and relationships?
•Doesyourbehavioralignwithsomeonewho trulybelievesinlove?
• How do you perceive romantic partners? Do you generalize, assuming that "all men are the same" or that love inevitably leads to pain?
OMTimes | March 2025
• Are you projecting negative expectations onto your relationships before anything even happens?
•Howdoyouviewotherwomen?Doyousee them as competition or as allies in mutual growth?
•Whatdoyouthinkaboutyourselfinrelation tolove?Howdoyoufeelwhenyouseehappy couples?Couldyoubereinforcingbeliefsthat keeploveatadistance?
After reflecting on these questions, pay attentiontoyouremotions.Doyoufeelpeace, or do you sense inner conflict? Sit with these sensations. Explore the discomforts, contradictions,andburdensyoucarry. Finally,askyourselfwithhonesty:
Closeyoureyesandimaginewhoyouwould beiftheselimitingbeliefsnolongerexisted. How would your actions change? How wouldyourenergyshift?Howwouldyoufeel ifyouwerefreefromtheseconstraints? Now, make a conscious choice: Decide to change the truth you have accepted as absolute.
Allow yourself to redefine your beliefs about love,success,andhappiness.Recognizethat love and fulfillment are not opposing forces —theyaremeanttocoexistinharmony.
By releasing the limitations of the past, you open yourself to the vast possibilities of destiny. Embrace the transformation. The love you seek is already within you, waiting toberealized.
Are these beliefs empowering you, or are theysabotagingyou? OMTimes | March 2025
World Vision as a category delves World Vision as a category delves World Vision as a category delves into global perspectives, addressing into global perspectives, addressing into global perspectives, addressing international issues, cultural international issues, cultural international issues, cultural insights, humanitarian efforts, insights, humanitarian efforts, insights, humanitarian efforts, and the interconnectedness of and the interconnectedness of and the interconnectedness of societies in a rapidly changing societies in a rapidly changing societies in a rapidly changing world. world. world.
By William Bezanson
The world is self-destructing, and we humanbeingsaresolelyresponsiblefor allowing this to happen. We have a vitally important mission to holistically nurture the World back to optimum health.
Unfortunately, it is evolving on a downward trend, decaying. And nobodyisdoingthistous,allowingthe world to self-destruct. No enemy, no alien beings, no deity, nobody is doing this horrid degradation to our Goldilocks zone, precious island home. We human beings are neglecting the healthoftheWorld.Itneedsnurturing togetbacktothrivinghealth.
So,whatisholisticnurturing?Weallknow aboutnurturingchildren,pets,plants,or relationshipstogrowinahealthy,wellnourished,andwell-balancedmannerso thattheywillevolveoptimally.
But, I want to look at a more general view of nurturing. I want to explore not only the well-understood methods of physical nurturing, but also the less acknowledged practicesofspiritualnurturing.
Myunderstandingofthecosmos is that literally everything has two aspects: masculine and feminine, inner and outer, positive and negative, higher andlower,
clockwise and counter-clockwise, physicalandspiritual,solidandfluid, andmanyotheraspects.Everyone of those things may benefit from nurturing,ormaybecomedeficient fromlackofnurturing.
Many people, indeed, perhaps most of them, choose to drift through life, often seeking just to survive, day to day, and not even to think of the two-foldedness of virtually everything. That’s understandable.
For many people, merely survivingisachallenge.
But for us fortunate folk who live in good conditions, in developedcountries,indecent societies, we simply must concern ourselves with higher matters.Itwouldbeneglectful andirresponsibleforustotake for granted the wonderful conditions and environments wefindourselvesin.
When we were young and unable to support ourselves, someone nurtured us. Typically, that would have been ourparents,mostoftenourmothers. But, as we matured, many of us lost track of our need to nurture others. Our modern “Me First” society vividly entices us not to look at the big picture but to fritter away our time being entertained, playing games, andsheepishlyfollowingthecrowd.
Holistic nurturing is very low on our list of things to think about, such as nurturing our own lives, and especially our own spiritual lives. Misguided society teaches us to do physicalworkouts(“WorkingOut”)but to neglect spiritual workouts (“WorkingIn”).
Thisskewedviewofholisticnurturing ofourlivesisatragicconsequenceof our neglect of the fundamentally important view of who we are and whatourmissionisinlife.
We modern people have lost our sense of wonderment and awe when faced with anything beyond our ordinary,mundanelives;andwefocus on whether a glass is half empty or half full, when the really important question is whether the glass is emptyingorfilling,andhowrapidly.
No!Wehavelostthemotivationto nurture our own lives, as well as those of our families, and, most tragicallyofall,ofourWorld.
So, do I have a solution to this tragedy, our lack of Holistic nurturingintheWorld?
Maybe I can start a list of intents andactionsthatwemighttake:
Creating our futures:
We could develop and apply the ability to create the futures that wedesirebyspiritualmeans.
Creative visualization:
We could visualize the future we desire intently and then release that image to God, the creative energy and intelligence of the cosmos, with gratitude for enablingittomaterialize.
Developing our intuition:
The most important ability to develop is our intuition, through which God, or our higher selves, speakstous.
Read auras:
A vitally important power to develop is the ability to see and understand the auras that surroundalllivingentities.
Working on your dreams, documenting them, analyzing them, and implementing their advice, can be highly effective in nurturing your life and the World.
Reduce,Reuse,Recycle
Thiswasapopularcatchphrase in the late 1900s. It is still applicableandinspiringtoday.
OMTIMES| MAGAZINE
Don’t just change things but transformthem:
Changing something alters one or moreofitsparameters;transformingit replaces its model of existence into something fundamentally different, possiblywithhigher-levelmodelsand inspiringparadigms.
For example, try thinking your thoughts in a different language than usual; imagine living with differentlawsofphysicsthanusual, suchasfloatingratherthansinking; visualize the past and the future in the same direction as the ancient Hebrewsoncedid.
Mypersonaltake.
What I’m writing about here is developing new habits. The most effective way to nurture our world holisticallyistocreatehabitssupporting suchnurturing.Suchhabitswillinfluence us in our idle moments, while asleep, or when wondering what to do next to allow our lives to comply with our new habitsofnurturingtheworld.
WilliamBezansonisaregularcontributor toOMTimes.Inretirementfromacareer in electrical engineering, he also writes books on systems design and world stewardship. He now writes on spirituality and world stewardship. His latest book, Nurturing The World, is based on this article. He lives with his wife in Ottawa, Canada. “His website is www3.sympatico.ca/bezanson1
The more you nurture a feeling of loving kindness, the happier and calmer you will be.
Dalai Lama
TheUNsays,yes,wecan!
Plasticpollutionisa scourgeonthe planet,havingspread frommountaintops allthewaytothe bottomoftheseas.It hasalsoenteredour bloodstreaminthe formofmicroplastics thatposepotential healthrisks.
Yetwecanreduce plasticpollutionby 80%withintwo decadesifwealter productionand consumption methodsthrough existing technologies, accordingtotheUN Environment Program(UNEP).
In its new report, Turning off the Tap, the UN agency offers a solutions-based analysis of practices, market shifts, and policies
that can inform government thinking and business
actions.
Theexpertsbehindthereportsuggest eliminatingespeciallyproblematicand unnecessary plastic products in tandemwiththetripleactionsofreuse, recyclingandreorient/diversify:
Reuse: Promoting reuse options, including refillable bottles, bulk dispensers, deposit-return-schemes, packaging take-back schemes, that canreduce30%ofplasticpollutionby 2040. To realize its potential, governments must help build a strongerbusinesscaseforreusable.
Recycle:Reducingplasticpollutionby an additional 20% by 2040 can be achievedifrecyclingbecomesamore stableandprofitableventure.
Removingfossilfuelssubsidies,enforcing design guidelines to enhance recyclability, and other measures would increase the share of economically recyclableplasticsfrom21%to50%.
Reorient and diversify: Careful replacement of products such as plastic wrappers, sachets and takeaway items with products made from alternative materials(suchaspaperorcompostable materials) can deliver an additional 17% decreaseinplasticpollution.
“Thewayweproduce,useanddisposeof plastics is polluting ecosystems, creating risks for human health and destabilizing the climate,” Inger Andersen, UNEP’s executive director, said in a statement, adding that following this roadmap can “dramaticallyreducestheserisksthrough adopting a circular approach that keeps plastics out of ecosystems, out of our bodiesandintheeconomy.”
However,evenifalltherecommendedmeasureswillbetaken,some100 millionmetrictonsofplasticsfromsingle-useandshort-livedproductswill stillneedtobesafelydealtwitheachyearby2040.Alreadyexistingplastic pollutionwillalsoneedclean-upsolutionsbothonlandandunderwater.
The investment costs of the recommended systemic change will be significant, amounting to $65 billion a year. However, a business-as-usual scenariowouldstillcost$113billionannually,accordingtoUNexpertswho say necessary investments can be mobilized partly by shifting to new productionfacilitiesandacirculareconomyglobally.
“Overall, the shift to a circular economy would resultin$1.27trillioninsavings,consideringcosts and recycling revenues. A further $3.25 trillion wouldbesavedfromavoidedexternalitiessuchas health, climate, air pollution, marine ecosystem degradation, and litigation-related costs,” UNEP says.“Thisshiftcouldalsoresultinanetincrease of 700,000 jobs by 2040, mostly in low-income countries, significantly improving the livelihoods ofmillionsofworkersininformalsettings.”
Importantly, the longer actions are put off, the worse plastic pollution will get with a five-yeardelayintheimplementationofthe plan alone leading to an increase of 80 million metric tons of plastic pollution by 2040.
“Internationally agreed policies can help overcome the limits of national planning and business action, sustain a flourishing circular global plastics economy, unlock business opportunities and create jobs. These may include agreed criteria for plastic products that could be banned, a crossborder knowledge baseline, rules on necessary minimum operating standardsofEPRschemesandotherstandards,”UNEPsays.
Among the report’s recommends is the establishment of a global fiscal frameworktoenablerecycledmaterialstocompeteonalevelplayingfield with virgin materials, create an economy of scale for solutions, and establishmonitoringsystemsandfinancingmechanisms.
“Crucially, policymakers are encouraged to embrace an approach that integrates regulatory instruments and policies tackling actions across the life cycle, as these are mutually reinforcing towards the goal of transforming the economy. For example, design rules to make products economically recyclable can be combined with targets to incorporate recycledcontentandfiscalincentivesforrecyclingplants,”UNEPexplains.
Book Review By Marguerite Dar Boggia
IsraelRegardie'sTheMiddlePillarisanenduring cornerstoneinthestudyofWesternesotericism, magic,andpsychologicalself-development.First publishedin1938andrevisedmultipletimes,the bookoccupiesauniqueplaceintheoverlapping realmsofmysticalandpracticalspirituality.
WithitsinnovativesynthesisofHermetic Qabalah, psychoanalysis, and ceremonial magic,itremainsaseminaltextforboth aspiringoccultistsandthoseinterestedin exploring the intersection of esoteric practicesandmodernpsychology.
All that can be said about the truth of this AbsoluteandSupremeRealityisthatITIS.This mustsuffice.
IsraelRegardie
The Middle Pillar, refers to a key concept in Qabalah, a Jewish mystical tradition later adaptedbytheHermeticOrderoftheGolden Dawn, of which Regardie was a significant member.The"MiddlePillar"representsbalance, aligning the human consciousness with divine energy through a pathway connecting the spiritual and material planes. This symbolic framework forms the basis of the practical exercises Regardie outlines, designed to harmonizetheself'sphysical,emotional,mental, andspiritualdimensions.
The book is divided into five major sections, each buildinguponthelast.Regardiebeginsbyexplaining thephilosophicalunderpinningsoftheQabalisticTree ofLife,focusingparticularlyontheMiddlePillar.His analysis of the symbolic meaning of the Sephiroth (spheresontheTreeofLife)demonstrateshisdeep understanding of the Hermetic tradition while presentingtheseideasinawaythatremainsaccessible toreaders.
Asignificantportionofthebookisdevotedtothe MiddlePillarexerciseitself,ameditationtechnique intendedtoawakenspiritualawarenessbydrawing divine energy into the practitioner through the SephirothoftheMiddlePillar.
The Author carefully guides readers through visualizations, breathwork, and chanting techniques associatedwiththeHebrewdivinenames,whichhe claimsactivatethemindandbody'slatentspiritual potential.Heemphasizestheexercise'stransformative poweranddescribesitasakeytoolforachieving personalequilibriumandspiritualgrowth.
OneofthedefiningaspectsofthebookisRegardie’s integrationofpsychology,particularlythetheoriesof CarlJungandSigmundFreud.
Regardie was ahead of his time in recognizing the psychological dimensions of mystical experience, andheincorporatedpsychoanalysisto contextualize and enhance esoteric practices.
HedescribestheMiddlePillarexercise notmerelyasamagicalritualbutasa methodofself-therapythataddresses unconscious conflicts and fosters individuation (a Jungian concept referringtotheprocessofbecoming one'smostauthenticself).Thisfusion of occult wisdom and modern psychologymakesTheMiddlePillar distinctandintellectuallystimulating.
Regardie also addresses the broader spiritualimplicationsoftheMiddlePillar practice,discussinghowitfostersadirect, experientialconnectiontodivinity.
One of the greatest strengths of TheMiddlePillarisitsclarity.
Althoughesoterictextscanoftenbe denseandinaccessible,Regardiemakes a concerted effort to write in a comprehensiblewaytobothbeginners andadvancedpractitioners.
Hebreaksdowncomplexmetaphysical ideasintodigestibleexplanations,often usingpracticalexamplesandanalogies thatillustratehispoints.
The book's high point is its integration of psychology, which significantly contributes to both fieldsofstudy.
While some occult texts focus narrowly on ritual and dogma, Regardie emphasizes personal transformationandmentalhealth. ThebookimbuesTheMiddlePillar with a sense of practicality and relevance that continues to resonatewithmodernreaders.
Regardie presents a vision of selfempowermentthatalignswellwith contemporary self-help philosophies by encouraging readers to become boththecreatorandthesubjectof theirspiritualpractice OMTIMES
Hisapproachhelpsdemystifytheesoteric,illustratinghowitcanbeappliedtoeveryday lifeinsignificantways.
Regardie's profound respect for the traditions from which he draws is evident throughoutthetext.WhileheadaptsandreinterpretsQabalisticandGoldenDawn teachings, he does so with a sense of reverence, ensuring that his innovations complementratherthandistorttheoriginalprinciples.
SomereadersmayfinditsfrequentuseofHebrewterminologyandQabalisticsymbolism intimidating,particularlyiftheylackpriorknowledgeofthesesystems.WhileRegardie triestoexplaintheseconcepts,anewcomertoesotericismmayfeeloverwhelmedbythe sheervolumeofnewmaterial.
Arelevantandpotentiallimitationis the book's occasional lack of contextualization. While Regardie provides a comprehensive guide to the Middle Pillar exercise, he assumesanunusualfamiliaritywith the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawnanditsrituals.
Readers who are maybe unfamiliar withthisesoterictraditionmayneed to supplement their reading with additional resources to fully grasp thebook'simplications.
Finally,thebookreflectssomeofthe biasesofitstime,particularlyinits presentationofgenderrolesandits emphasisonaWesternframeworkof spirituality. Modern readers may wishtoexplorehowthetechniques and philosophies discussed in The Middle Pillar could be adapted or expandedtoreflectabroader,more inclusiveworldview.
Nearlyacenturyafteritsinitialpublication,TheMiddlePillarremainsafoundational textinthestudyofmodernWesternesotericism.Itsinfluencecanbeseeninthe works of later occultists, New Age thinkers, and even self-help authors who emphasizethepowerofvisualization,mindfulness,andself-awareness.
YOU CAN’ T CHANGE THE PAST
But You Can Create the Future