Positive Life Winter 2023

Good News Feels Better

JAMES VAN PRAAGH

Tales From A Medium

DEEP DATING

Comes To Dublin In 2024

POSITIVE THERAPIES

Yoga Nidra And Constellations

True Power Time To Wake Up

We Are One: Daniel Schmidt

WINTER 2023/24 PRICELESS

positivelife.ie

BRUCE Seminars.ie And Positive Life Present

LIPTON DUBLIN SEPTEMBER 2024

ONE DAY WORKSHOP AND EVENING TALK Talk Venue: RDS Workshop Venue: ROYAL MARINE HOTEL

Tickets available from seminars.ie

welcome to Winter 2023/24 “Tranquility is not weakness; from tranquility emerges power and strength.”

C. JoyBell C. My favourite riff on power came from the channel AMU recently, in A Maternal Universe, a series of brilliant books by Louise Delaney. Simply put, power with is much more powerful than power over.

Power over: being based on control; Power with: collaboration, working together, joining forces.

This is the new flavour of power on the planet, the true power of your heart; to know, to love, to be.

From the wellspring within you of awareness comes all truths, all knowing, all beingness. To let go, let go, let go of all expectation, all outcomes... what a way to live. Beyond personality and to trust in that higher power that needs no trust, because it’s who you are; you are it.

This issue we go deep with Daniel Schmidt from Awaken the World, we tap into mediumship with James Van Praagh… and our theme as above, so below, TRUE POWER. Take it back. paul congdon, Publisher

Contentment 4 Winter Vibes Holistic Experiences This Season

6 Positively Newsworthy So Much Good News

10 Spirituality In The City Experiences Of True Power 12 Positive Parenting Know Yourself 14 Self Care Community And Eye Health 16 Sandy Newbigging Restore Your Inner Power 18 Amanda Sophia Time To Rise 20 Margot Tubbiolo Teen Spirit 22 Celtic Wheel Embracing Sovereignty 24 Dawn Cartwright Sexual Altruism

PHOTO: EMILIA KRYSZTOFIAK RUA PHOTOGRAPHY

26 Grace-Anne Kelly Gaining Conscious Control 28 Alison Canavan The Force Of Creation 30 Davie Philip Powerful Community 32 Daniel Schmidt Awaken your mind 34 James Van Praagh Tales From A Medium 36 Judith Mcadam Our Cosmic Superpower 38 Plant Power Jerusalem Artichokes 40 Neantóg Winter Recipes 43 Short And Sweet Holistic Healing 56 Positive Personality Jane Stephenson 58 Emmett Technique Transformative Touch 60 Deep Dating Unlock New Potential 62 Positive Astrology Inspired Action

Publisher PC Media paul@positivelife.ie Co-Editorial Alison McEvoy and Persephone Kianka editor@positivelife.ie Co writer Lizzie Eagan Design Conor O’Brien info@conorobrien.ie Ad Design Caroline Hanan caroline.hanan@gmail.com Advertising Paul Congdon paul@positivelife.ie 0861579518 Margaret O’Connor margaretpositivelife@gmail.com Social media Taylor Grimes editor@positivelife.ie Thanks to our advertisers, we can give Positive Life magazine to you for FREE. If you’re talking to them, let them know we sent you their way.

Please use the information provided in this publication as a recommendation only to better mental and physical health. We strongly advise you to consult your doctor regarding health concerns that you may have. The views expressed by contributors and advisors do not necessarily represent the views of the publication’s staff.

Printed, published, packaged and distributed in Ireland. positivelife.ie

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winter vibes “THE COLOR OF SPRINGTIME IS IN THE FLOWERS, THE COLOR OF WINTER IS IN THE IMAGINATION.” – TERRI GUILLEMETS

A Maternal Universe

Mucklagh Lodge

highly praised by Carmel Farnan from Food for Life, who stocks an excellent range of healthcare products in her own shop. wellnesscentre.ie

INHALE WELLNESS

reboot

your system DRIFT FLOAT THERAPY If your entire being could use some rest and rejuvenation before the new year, Floatation Therapy is where it’s at. Not only is the floatation experience deeply relaxing, but it also aids the body’s healing and rejuvenating process so you will emerge a healthier, more vibrant you. You can also choose from other ways to enhance your well-being, including Salt Therapy, Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna sessions and Red Light Therapy, any of which will be a true gift to your system this winter! driftfloattherapy.ie

SOURCE OF LIFE Nature’s Plus Source of Life Liquid Gold is the ultimate liquid multivitamin made from superfoods. With its delicious tropical fruit flavour and impressive range of health benefits, we suggest adding it to your winter wellness kit if you haven’t already. It comes

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is sweeping the nation; we’re seeing it popping up around the country more and more, and for good reason. According to recent research, increased oxygen flow in the blood can result in the awakening of dormant cells in the brain and the creation of new ones. HBOT has also proven beneficial in supporting the treatment of a wide range of conditions, from broken bones and back pain to cancer and MS. live5dhealth.com

A SHOT OF GOODNESS If you need an energy boost this season, check out these vegan, gluten-free and organic juice shots designed for maximum nutrition potency. Try the wheatgrass juice or beetroot & broccoli sprout juice to give yourself all the essential nutrients in the most efficient way.

We also love that a percentage of their sales go towards a number of good causes across the globe. nohurtnoharm.ie

OPTIMISE YOUR HEALTH Methylation is the new vibe, and we like the work of Gary Brecka. Look him up; he’s the biz. The best part is you only need to do the methylation DNA test once in your lifetime, as it never changes! Once you get the result, you will know exactly what supplements and foods you personally require to optimise your health. If you’re interested, the test is available through these guys in the UK: mybodyfabulous.co.uk

THE OCEAN’S SUPERFOOD Sea moss is sweeping the nation due to its excellent benefits for skin, health, mindset and more. “The ocean’s superfood” can be consumed in many forms, and we love the new gummies by seamosssublime.ie.

They come highly recommended from Bee Healthy in Monaghan, a super health store that has a lovely community feel. Find them on Facebook to see what other goodies they carry.

impactful information EMPOWERING PAGES Reading is a lovely thing to do at Christmas time, and A Maternal Universe, a fantastic series of books, will introduce you to AMU, a powerful group of beings that work through Louise Delaney to give you uplifting and new ways to look at the world through the eyes of light. We love what they say about Power, “power with is much more powerful than power over,” so if you’re interested in learning more, get your hands on the books! maternaluniverse.com

A HOLISTIC APPROACH

Deerstone Phase

The Academy of Systematic Kinesiology (TASK) was established in Ireland in 2000 to enable knowledge-based exploration beyond the horizons of traditional healthcare. The fantastic courses they offer, from their intensive 3-month foundational programme to the professional practitioner 14-month diploma, aren’t just courses but “stepping stones to a new journey in life.”

The Balanced Health course, for example, supports participants in embracing a “whole person” approach to transform their wellness and that of their loved ones, clients or friends. kinesiologyzone.com

READING BY NUMBERS We like the sound of this book on numerology from John Kenny, In his own words: After 50 years as a practitioner and teacher of Numerology I have written a book that I have called ‘Numerology- Your Guide For The Soul’. My book explains how to draw up and understand Numerology charts that will help you to understand where you are in life, the challenges you are facing, and the tools you have available to meet those challenges. I am excited about capturing so many years of experience in this book and sharing it with those interested in learning about Numerology and trying it for themselves. healinghouse.ie

winter havens NESTLE INTO NATURE We were so excited to hear there is a new eco spot in Laragh, Wicklow, just an hour away from Dublin City. If you’re longing for a restful winter getaway, this luxury mountain retreat will have you sorted.

Featuring a flexible range of eco-cottages, a firepit lounge, a games barn, and the surrounding Dingley Dell Woodland, there is something for everyone, no matter how you want to unwind this season. thedeerstone.ie

SPIRITUAL SANCTUARY An Tobar is a beautiful spirituality retreat centre offering a variety of retreats and workshops throughout the year. From poetry groups to enneagram workshops to tai chi classes, you will find something to enjoy in this inviting natural setting. You can also come on a personal retreat here whenever you need some time away to relax in the lovely quiet of nature. antobar.ie

NATURAL NECESSITIES As of this October, Tattie Hoaker Healthfood Shop in Roscommon is officially under new ownership. Maureen Brosnan, the previous owner, has served the industry so well, and now we are excited to see what goodness Susan Reynolds is bringing to the table. Her shop, Au Naturel, specialises in high-quality supplements and skincare, providing people in Athlone and Roscommon with their wellness favourites.

TREAT YOURSELF If it’s been a minute since you had a self-care day, consider stopping by Essences Day Spa for some aesthetic holistic care. The founder, Vanessa Gomes, made it her mission to raise her customers’ self-esteem through aesthetic and holistic treatments, including lymphatic drainage, which has done wonders for people. We love that all products used in the spa are of the highest quality, meaning you will genuinely look and feel your best after leaving. essencesdayspa.ie

evolutionary

events

Teal Swan

WELLBEING WEEKEND If you’re interested in learning about nutrition, growing your own veg and preserving by canning, check out Colman Power’s upcoming Sustainability & Wellness event which will take place from January 5th to 7th. This jam-packed weekend will include a bee-keeping workshop, talks, walks, community-based activities, meditation, wild swims and more. It could also be the perfect Christmas gift for someone! €399 per person. Spaces are limited. mucklagh.love

UNLOCK YOUR CREATIVE POWER We are delighted to announce that we will be co-hosting two events featuring Bruce Lipton in 2024 with the brilliant Jane Stephenson from seminars.ie. Join us for The Mind Over Genes - Evening Seminar on September 28th to learn the secrets behind self-empowerment and becoming a responsible co-creator. The Spontaneous Evolution - Full Day Workshop on September 29th 2024, will be the perfect counterpart to this talk, teaching you how to contribute to the planet’s higher evolutionary destiny while maintaining creative control of your life. positivelife.ie

TRADITIONAL TRANSFORMATION We love the sound of Ger Lyons’ upcoming transformative event in Ireland. As a traditional Irish healer, Ger combines active living mystic prayer with ancient Celtic & Nordic traditional healing transmissions, using sound, music, exercises, invocations and healing incantations. Avail of this unique opportunity to elevate to a higher plain of consciousness, permanently releasing anything that no longer resonates.

As Ger does ongoing events in Ireland, you can find the dates that best suit you. gerlyons.net

Bruce Lipton

positively newsworthy GOOD NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE.

1 Miracle Baby LITTLE GIRL THRIVES AFTER SURVIVING EARTHQUAKE.

by Persephone Kianka

Baby Afraa was born under the rubble of her family home, destroyed by the deadly earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on February 6th. While her parents and four siblings died instantly, Afraa survived for ten hours under the wreckage with her umbilical cord still attached to her mother.

Upon hearing her incredible story, people everywhere offered to adopt her.

However, after a DNA test confirmed she and her aunt were biologically related, she was adopted by her aunt’s family.

“This girl is my daughter,” her adoptive father, Al-Sawadi, said. “She is exactly the same as my children.”

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Days after Afraa was born, her adoptive mother gave birth to a daughter, Attaa, and since then, she has been breastfeeding both babies.

Today, Afraa is happy and healthy, growing up alongside her five sisters and two brothers in an apartment in Syria. However, the family goes to a tent settlement to sleep, Al-Sawadi explained, as his children are still traumatised by the earthquake.

He said he has received several offers to live abroad but has declined them because he wants to stay in Syria, where Afraa’s parents lived and died.

“We are very happy with her, because she reminds us of her parents and siblings,” al-Sawadi said. “She looks very much like her father and her sister Nawara.”

Miracle baby Afraa is also very happy to engage with others and smiles at everyone she meets, as shown in a video of her smiling gleefully on her father’s lap while he talks to the press.

“Upon hearing her incredible story, people everywhere offered to adopt her.”

2 Enduring Friendship PEN PALS OF OVER 50 YEARS FINALLY MEET.

by Persephone Kianka

Cathy Dlinn-Cohane from New York and Colleen Mays from Canberra in Australia first connected over 50 years ago after seeing a pen pal advertisement in the newspaper.

The friends sent letters to each other throughout their childhood and teenage years before losing touch when they became adults.

Luckily, in 2013, Colleen found Cathy on Facebook, and the pair resumed their correspondence, this time through email and social media. Over the past decade, they have become a meaningful part of each other’s lives again despite never meeting in person.

Their 14-hour time difference doesn’t stop them from texting daily and enjoying a drink together over Facetime.

“It really is like we’re in the room together,” Cathy shared. “We talk for hours, even with the time difference. We time it

so it’s my night and her lunchtime on the weekends.”

In May of this year, they met in person at Dublin airport for the first time to begin their long-awaited first trip together.

Neither of them had been to Ireland before, so they decided it would be the perfect spot to meet, especially since Colleen is 22% Irish.

“My ancestors come from Munster, I haven’t researched enough to pinpoint anybody who might be related to me but it’s nice to be here,” she told Dublin Live.

Wanting to make the most of their time in Ireland, the pair made plans to sightsee around Dublin, go on a day trip to Malahide and visit the Blarney Stone.

Colleen’s husband also got them tickets for the Viking Splash tour as a Christmas present, which they were very excited about.

“Their 14-hour time difference doesn’t stop them from texting daily and enjoying a drink together over Facetime.”

3 The Power of Human Creativity THREE CHEFS CREATE CHANGE AFTER PRISON.

by Persephone Kianka Three cooks, Keith Corbin, Michael Carter and Sharon Richardson, honed their skills in prison and are now award-winning chefs and businesspeople, demonstrating the incredible force of human creativity.

“There are geniuses in there,” said Corbin, an award-winning chef at his restaurant Alta

following week.

Carter told the Guardian that “people often underestimate returning citizens, not considering how hard they’ll work when offered a chance to earn a livable wage after years of literal pennies for their labor.”

At Down North, Carter exclusively

Adams, referring to the ability of incarcerated men to cook using minimal and bland ingredients.

During his ten years in prison, Corbin fed dozens of people, doing his best to add flavour to the dishes. Once, he created a Reece’s Peanut Butter Cup by baking syrup-soaked processed peanuts and melting a Hershey’s bar overtop.

This creative know-how undoubtedly led to his success today as a 2-time James Beard Award winner.

The experiences of Chef Michael Carter, executive at Down North Pizza in Philidelphia, also paved the way for his inspiring career.

After Carter finished his 12-year sentence, he took a class for resume writing for food

employs returning citizens at $15 an hour, double the state’s minimum wage and approximately $3 more than starting restaurant workers usually earn.

The third entrepreneur, Chef Sharon Richardson, spent 20 years in prison in New York, where she learned her favourite commissary creation from a friend: peanut butter hot wings with okra and rice.

Today, wings are a go-to on her menu at Soul Catering, which hires only formerly incarcerated women. She also runs a non-profit, Reentry Rocks, which helps these women rebuild their lives.

“We was cheffing up in that penitentiary,” Richardson told the Guardian. “But food is just

professionals. When they asked what experience he had, his answer—that he had cooked in prison for 2,000 people—landed him a catering job the

food. If you ain’t got no love … you’ve just got chicken wings.”

“Once, he created a Reece’s Peanut Butter Cup by baking syrupsoaked processed peanuts and melting a Hershey’s bar overtop.”

positively newsworthy the little things 1 Accept And Redirect MASTERING THE FLOW OF REALITY.

by Persephone Kianka

As the seasons shift and offer room for contemplation, I’ve been reflecting on how to surrender while claiming control of my reality. This great spiritual paradox, at least a paradox from our ego’s perspective, seems to be the only way forward in this radically shifting world.

Our soul is crying to break free from the tight constraints the mind and ego have placed upon it to “keep us safe”. Yet, when we have moments of remembering our unlimited nature, the ego scarcely lets us enjoy it for long, telling us, “It can’t be that easy” or “We can’t be that powerful”.

In other words, we believe a momentary experience of bliss, peace and infinite potential—which is, in fact, our natural state—is too good to be true.

So, how do we courageously commit to the reality we want while attending to any thoughts, feelings or circumstances that appear to negate it?

The concept of “accept and redirect”, which I learned from Law of Attraction coach Quazi Johir, has helped to answer this for me.

When something we don’t prefer appears in our external or internal world, we don’t have to resist it. Instead, we can accept it, allowing the thought, feeling or circumstance to be there without losing the conviction that we are getting what we want.

Quazi even suggests that when an intense fear arises, we can think of the worst-case scenario for a moment and

consider what we would do if it happened and how it could even be a blessing in disguise.

When you realise that if the “worstcase scenario” did happen, you would still have just as much power to create what you want from then on, this releases resistance. As a result, you have more energy and mental space to focus on your desired reality, allowing you to attain and experience it more and more often.

“When something we don’t prefer appears in our external or internal world, we don’t have to resist it.”

2 The Dance Of Life

HONOURING OUR INTERNAL SEASONS.

by Persephone Kianka For those of us who see the changing seasons as an invitation to reevaluate our own natural rhythms, winter is often a time to slow down and go within. Yet, even as we take cues from Mother Nature, each of us will have our own distinct and perhaps unpredictable seasons and cycles.

While I have been consciously moving away from hustle culture, the idea that we must always maximise productivity to achieve what we want, I am still naturally productive and ambitious.

So, recently, when I was feeling under the weather and exhausted for

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weeks despite having so many plans I wanted to put into action, it taught me to honour my internal rhythm above all.

Now, more than ever, I recognise that my body and spirit have their own wisdom, which my conscious mind can’t fully understand. Yet all these parts of me are dialoguing perfectly with the universe to align me with my highest reality as soon as possible.

I still make many plans and implement them whenever it feels right, but I completely allow myself to ‘deviate’ from them when it doesn’t. After all, we don’t know exactly how we will reach our goals;

even if we have specific steps in mind, our higher self often has another, more efficient plan to get us there.

So, next time something seems to throw a wrench in your plans, remember that it is, without a doubt, a part of the plan to align you with your desires.

There is so much going on behind the scenes energetically that our human mind can’t fathom, but when you trust that everything is happening in your favour, what an easy and blissful dance this life becomes.

“There is so much going on behind the scenes energetically that our human mind can’t fathom…”

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spirituality & the city TRUE POWER

Ed Greenwood & Louise Delaney True power for us is when we’re in the flow. It’s when our intuition and feeling of being held by a greater force is a visceral thing. We feel the energy moving through us in waves, and we know that we are working with true power.

Ed: What comes to mind for me was my decision to move to Ireland at 55. I left my entire life behind – all my material possessions and all parts of my previous life. I was held by a powerful force, and I knew in my heart I was doing the right thing. This feeling gave me the courage and confidence to let go, let my life unfold and have faith. Ten years later, I now know that the reason I moved to Ireland was to meet Louise, fall in love and build a new life.

Louise: I feel true power every time I connect with my guides, AMU. Their energy is “power with” not “power over”. They work with and through me and I feel myself being held by true power.

Abi Beri At 21, I was unjustly accused of a grave crime, facing potential life imprisonment. Overwhelmed by powerlessness and confusion, I desperately sought relief in external aids, yet nothing eased my turmoil. In a moment of sheer despair, I turned to a heartfelt prayer, seeking solace from the divine.

That night, I experienced an unexplainable shift, a profound sense of peace amidst the chaos. Against all odds, miraculous events unfolded, leading to my exoneration. This ordeal unveiled an unexpected resilience within me—a strength that not only surprised but also sustained me through the darkest times. It was a pivotal awakening to the profound resilience and power residing deep within, a realisation that reshaped my understanding of life’s trials. This journey, though harrowing, nurtured a closer bond with the divine and taught me the unseen purposes in life’s challenges, revealing the hidden strengths we all possess.

Polly Barrett I think the only time I’ve felt true power has been during a soap-opera-esque moment when I decided to end my relationship with the father of my child. I had felt trapped by duty and and fear of being alone with a child. But when I realised mine and my son’s happiness were worth taking a chance on, I knew I had to be brave and make a decision that would turn several lives upside down and make me a few enemies. I remember that moment when I made the decision silently in my own head, nobody knew I had done it, nobody knew what was coming. But the camel’s back had been broken and I suddenly held all this power and strength in my heart to do something about it. It was the calm before the storm. That took true courage and strength and ultimately was the best decision for everyone.

Cormac Quinn Most of us have recently witnessed the unfolding of some turbulent and trying events in Ireland and across the world. When such dark and challenging events play out, it can trigger all types of physical and emotional responses in us. It is also during these times that the brave, selfless and protective actions shine all the brighter in contrast, be it a protective moped delivery driver or first aid humanitarian on the front line. It is their selfless action that can give us hope. There is true power in accepting the things we cannot change and focusing on what positive acts we can implement. Taking some time out daily, allowing the mind to still long enough to allow some clarity to enter, albeit this is easier said than done. Remembering to move and breathe deep and charge your battery so you are there to give back to yourself and others.

Carmel Farnan Three years ago when I was faced with unexpected brain surgery, I had the opportunity to tap into the Power within. A knowing arose – “Surely, the Power that has created all that exists, can easily create a successful brain surgery outcome for me?”

Surgery-based ego thoughts were terrifying, so I decided my approach had to be not to think those thoughts at all. To do this I lived deeply in the present moment for the seven months awaiting surgery (Covid delays!). This caused an ever-deepening connection with the Power within, which delivered not only a perfect surgery outcome for me, but further blessed me with yet another spiritual awakening.

I now see, hear and feel the presence of this Power on a daily basis. It moves through me and out to others. It has told me, “This is NOT the way the world was meant to be” and has shown me how the world IS meant to be. My job is to assist in bringing more of this Light and Power into the world.

Persephone Kianka This past summer, I experienced a huge shift in my reality. After months of feeling anxious, ungrounded and not myself, I decided to invest in spiritual one-to-one coaching for the first time in my life. During those six weeks, my coach helped me raise my vibration, follow my happiness, and, as a result, return to my natural state of being.

To my surprise, this spiritual elevation also resulted in my boyfriend and I breaking up after being together for five years. We had not been in resonance with each other for a while, but I was afraid to let go of the familiar, so I kept holding on even when the relationship was no longer serving me.

When I got to this new level of consciousness, I realised that nothing exists outside of me; therefore, there’s nothing to fear. Every feeling, situation and phase of life I experience is my creation, designed by my higher self to support my never-ending expansion. To me, this knowing is True Power, and I intend to carry it with me wherever my higher self takes me next.

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POSITIVE PARENTING

true power in

parenting SHOWING UP CONSCIOUSLY.

by Anna Cole True power – what a wonderful theme for this season’s Issue of Positive Life magazine.

What is true power in parenting? I want to back up a little here and start by telling you all about some research, a longterm ‘longitudinal’ piece of research that changed the ‘attachment’ theory world.

In the 1970s and throughout the ’80s, Mary Main, a research psychologist at the University of California, Berkeley, began interviewing parents and studying their interactions with their babies. In the study, they found that attachment rejection or trauma in a mother’s childhood could be directly related to the same sort of attachment issues between her and her child.

From this kind of attachment research, Main and her colleagues devised an interview method – the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI). This interview contained 20 open-ended questions about people’s recollections of their own childhood, including: • Describe your relationship with your parents.

• Think of five adjectives that reflect your relationship with your mother.

• What’s the first time you remember being separated from your parents?

• Did you ever feel rejected?

More important than the specific content gathered from this attachment research, Main’s goal, she said, was to “surprise the unconscious” into revealing itself.

Furthermore, the AAI has, over the years of repeated use, been found capable of targeting, with more than 80 per cent predictability, how a child of the adult interviewee would be attached to his/her parent.

While other variants of adult attachment measures have been developed, the AAI set the stage for an empirically validated way of following the transmission of attachment patterns from generation to generation – documenting a kind of psychic lineage from parent to child to grandchild.

Now, I’m a parent, too, so I know that anyone who is reading this and is parenting may feel their heart sinking at this point.

You might be thinking something along the lines of, “How on earth do I have the power to change my own childhood and some of the attachment wounds, or even trauma, I received as a child so that I can pass down the line a healthier set of attachment behaviours to my children than I myself have?” Or perhaps you are one of the smaller number of securely attached parents who aren’t asking a similar question on learning about this highly influential research into attachment, and its real-life implications for parents? Having worked with parents now for over a decade, I can confidently say there’s not a parent I have met who doesn’t feel some kind of guilt or concern about

some aspect of their parenting. Maybe that’s because they are coming to seek some answers and help! Maybe I will never meet that small proportion of securely attached parents who are finding it easy to parent!

But I digress.

Here’s the good news. True power in parents does not lie in having had the ‘perfect’ or even a securely attached childhood yourself.

What was important to the AAI was not the actual ‘answers’ to the questions they asked, but the way people responded.

Whether their personal narratives were coherent or confused, whether they dismissed the questions with short, uninformative answers, or whether they rambled on pointlessly or provided real – and ultimately, empirically validated – insights about their state of mind, emotional processes and capacity to form relationships.

In short, what the study found is that parents could experience insecure attachment or even trauma in their own childhood but NOT pass it down the line.

Those parents who could tell a coherent, authentic story about their own childhood, who’d been able to express the difficulties they’d experienced, felt the tensions of that in their own parenting ‘hot-spots’ and stress points and released the emotional ‘backpack’ they were carrying around with them as a result of their own childhood, could access true power in parenting. They could stop themselves exploding at their child

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“True power in parenting lies in how well we know and listen to our own inner terrain…”

when they were triggered and could offer secure attachment when they themselves had not experienced that.

Now, for any of you who have been reading my articles here over the past few years, you may have picked up that I trained some time back now, with Hand in Hand Parenting, to become a teacher in their approach. I teach five simple (but not always easy!), effective, practical ‘tools’ that take the salient ideas from attachment theory and psychoanalytic thinking and reduce them, like a fine stock, into do-able daily practices for parents. I’ve used them in my own family, and I know what a profound help they can be for the ups and downs of parenting.

True power in parenting lies in how well we know and listen to our own inner terrain so that when the challenges arise in parenting – and they will – we can self-regulate and show up for our children as adults rather than as our own wounded, inner children.

Being listened to non-judgementally by another parent or adult helps us map this terrain over time. What we call ‘Listening Partnerships’ at Hand in Hand Parenting are, as psychotherapist Sandra Flear says, “an essential parenting survival skill.”

Try this: Listening Partnerships are easy to run. The simple guideline is to set the same amount of time to be listened to, and during the listening time session, say very little.

Instead, thoughts are focused on the wellbeing of the parent being listened to and the faith that they will work through an issue.

1. Decide on the equal amount of time you will each take.

2. Start by talking about one thing that is going well.

3. One person shares while the other person listens. The listener just listens while thinking, “You are good. You will figure it out.” The listener’s warmth, presence and good thoughts are enough. You do not need to offer advice! You should not fix or reflect back.

4. When the timer goes off, the listener asks the talker a detailed refresher question, such as: What are the designs of some of your socks? What’s in your junk drawer? What are the colours of the rainbow? This helps your partner to reconnect to his or her cortex, the thinking part of the brain, to get their attention up and out so that they can listen to you.

5. Now switch. As you listen, simply think that your partner is good, and they will figure it out. When the timer goes off, ask the person sharing a question so they can get their attention back up and out.

6. Avoid talking about what the other person has said. What is said in one’s listening time is sacred and belongs only to

the person sharing.

7. If you can, set a time when you’ll meet again.

8. As much as you’d like to chit-chat or ask for parenting advice, it can erode the safety of your time together. Simply end by mentioning something you are looking forward to, something you appreciate about yourself, or something you appreciate about your partner.

The overriding guidelines for a useful and nourishing listening partnership are to: Listen with respect, attention and warmth.

Anna Cole, PhD, is Community and Research Lead for Hand in Hand in the UK and Ireland. Hand in Hand is an international non-profit that works to bring attachment based, trauma-responsive connection tools to parents. Find us at handinhandparentingcontact anna@ handinhandparenting.org

Eye See You FORGET THE FLOATERS.

by Paul Congdon Your eyes are the windows of your soul said someone to someone once upon a time.They allow us to feast on everything around us to see it , to see each other to take it all in. In this job i get to sample a lot of supplements and gadgets and when i find one that does what it says on the tin, i love that , because i always take the natural route , the self responsibility route. First things first our eyes need rest , palming is something Dr Sam Berne and alot of optamologists swear by, simply placing your palms over your eyes for even 5 minutes a day can give them some breathing space.Keep them hydrated and of course fish oils and nutrients help too. In my quest to find something for my eyes i found them right here on my doorstep courtesy of the wonderful research of one Prof John Nolan who has established the macular

pigment research group in Waterford to determine the impact and role of nutrition in eye health.

Recently i had spottted some floaters in my own field of vision and upon hearing that from Prof Nolans research they had clinically trialled a supplement called Vivaquity which had a 67 % success rate.As in of the active group after six months 67 % of people reported a marked improvement.

I decided to give this product a go and having taken them now for a period of just under 3 months i can say that I concur. You really notice floaters when its daylight and your in a natural setting like a beach , and the other day i had to strain to find them , they have reduced by about 70 % in terms of quantity and there is less of a substance to them.The effect of nutrition on eyes i got to witness for myself, this supplement contains a combination of zinc, vitamin c, grape seed extract and lysine.Nutrition and eye health is a lovely partnership ,

and i can testify it works. Viavaquity has the ingredients and the science to back it up. And guess what no side effects and no contraindications, just plain old nutrition doing its job in the human body and helping your bodies natural ability to do the best job it can. Its now a year since i began taking them and the effects are lasting and cumulative. One week i was out of supply and i noticed on a walk at the beach where the natural light abounds a return of the floaters, and immediately got onto Vivaquity courtesy of Tanja in Waterford and once i replenished my supply and hence my bodies nutrient supply , they reduced again within the week.

As I finish this article i will log on to their website to order more to keep the stock up and keep the windows of my soul nice and clean. vivaquity.com

Give Back To Yourself PRIORITISE YOUR WELL-BEING WITH ADVENTAGEOUS. Interviewer: Paul Congdon Interviewee: Cormac Quinn

by Persephone Kianka Our chat with Cormac Quinn from ADVENTageous was a great reminder to prioritise well-being this winter. As Cormac noted, there is already a lot of awareness of the wellness tools available to us, but it’s another thing to put them into practice.

He has been experimenting with these tools for 10-15 years but still has to push himself sometimes when he doesn’t feel like doing them. While honouring our changing rhythms is important, he suggests having a minimum that you hold yourself accountable to each day.

For single parents and anyone who feels they don’t have time to spare, he would advise them to “Start small and consistent and to build on it and to be okay with putting the priority on yourself.”

It can be something as small as taking a five-minute walk or doing some exercise in the back garden. Cormac reminds us that when we focus on our well-being, we actually benefit those around us.

“If we recharge our batteries, we’re better able to take on challenges when they arise because you just have more in your tank that you can take it on with.”

If you don’t know where to start, Cormac recommends looking on the ADVENTageous website and selecting one or two well-being tools that suit you. If you benefit from this and have more energy to give, you can pay it forward by donating to the suggested charity or doing an inspired act of kindness.

With the annual ADVENTageous initiative kicking off on December 1st, Cormac invites us to reflect on the kind of life we want to lead in the new year. By taking baby steps this month, you can be well on your way to living that life by the time January 1st comes around.

adventageous.net

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POSITIVE PE ACE

the two pillars of empowerment UNIFYING THERAPY & SPIRITUALITY TO RESTORE YOUR INNER POWER.

by Sandy C. Newbigging When I was a child, I snuck into the television room late one night and watched the movie Jaws. It scared me to death! For weeks I couldn’t sleep. I was filled with fear, hiding under the covers. I was convinced the massive shark from the movie was hiding in my bedroom wardrobe, waiting for me to go to sleep so it could eat me!

Today, looking back on it I can’t help but laugh at the thought of a giant fish living in my wardrobe, but at the time it felt so real that I would sweat and shake from fear.

When my dad sat me down to tell me that Jaws wasn’t in my wardrobe, that he was only in my mind and imagination, I didn’t believe him - because it felt so real. But he spoke the truth and gave me one of the most important lessons of my life.

I’ve since discovered that the majority of my fears exist mainly in my mind, in either my imagined past or future, but rarely in the real world of this moment. Meaning, although we might be feeling some very real feelings of fear, the emotions are caused by ‘feeling our thinking’, and reside more in our mind, than in reality.

Your body doesn’t know the difference…

Numerous scientific studies have discovered that, biochemically speaking, your body cannot tell the difference between what is happening in the real world and what is imagined in your mind. Meaning, even if you are only thinking about a scary scenario, or stressful situation, your body still experiences the same negative physical reactions it would if these events were actually happening in reality. The implications of this are immense – especially due to the other mind-body connection knock-on effects that occur when we are caught up in our mind.

When feeling our thinking about worrisome things, we are more likely to operate from our Sympathetic Nervous System, activate the fight-flight Autonomic

“...the majority of my fears exist mainly in my mind, in either my imagined past or future, but rarely in the real world of this moment.”

Nervous System responses and operate from our brainstem. The primary objective of these aspects of our nervous system and brain is survival and, as a result, our thinking becomes more ‘black and white’ and fixated on potential problems and threats.

Consequently, we can end up in a vicious cycle: feeling our fearful thoughts, activating our physical survival-stress responses, and repeatedly finding even more potential threats to confirm, justify and compound our perceived reality of being unsafe and in danger. Inevitably, we can end up experiencing an underlying chronic anxiety, along with a disempowering sense of powerlessness and lack of safety.

So, what can be done about this problematic predicament – of the mind negatively affecting the body, and our body then responding to reinforce the fearful perceptions of our mind? As a trauma-aware therapist and meditation teacher, I suggest a dual-healing strategy that combines both therapeutic and spiritual solutions.

The power of unifying therapy and spirituality…

From a therapy perspective, it is important to understand that past traumas dysregulate our Autonomic Nervous System, making us more likely to live in fight or flight, for example. Trauma also undermines our inner trust and safety. We stop trusting ourself, our perceptions, intuitions and capabilities, and we can find it harder to

trust others and life in general, or even God, source, or ‘the universe’.

Trauma also corrodes our inner safety, making us more prone to feeling powerless and anxious. By identifying, healing and releasing our early-life traumas, we naturally regain our resilience and restore our innate self-confidence and empowerment.

From a spiritual perspective, we want to practise the art of letting go of over-thinking, and use forms of meditation that help to calm the mind. When we are not ‘feeling our thinking’ about the past or future, and are instead attentive to ‘the now’, we activate our Parasympathetic Nervous System and relaxation response which, in turn, is proven to create a calmer mind and body.

Words cannot describe the relief that came to me the day I discovered that my memories from the past, irrespective of how bad or sad, are only accessible now via my imagination. The same went for my future fears. For years I was scared by my shadow, my imagination. If you can relate to this, and for the sake of your own self-empowerment, I invite you to explore the reality that this moment is the only moment that exists, and therefore, the only moment that is real.

This one! Not some past memory or future fantasy, only now.

By healing any disempowering past traumas and dwelling less on the past or future by living more in the moment, you can harness the power of your mind-body connection and the present moment to massively increase your inner peace and empowerment.

To learn meditation or book one-to-one sessions with Sandy, visit:

sandynewbigging.com.

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POSITIVE HOME

the wood dragon

a year of renewal and growth TIME TO STAND IN YOUR POWER.

by Amanda Sophia

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2024, the Year of the Yang Wood Dragon, invites us to step into our sovereignty and open up to new possibilities, weaving a balanced blend of feminine and masculine energies in our lives. The dragon represents a unique and powerful symbol of authority, power and positive transformation. As a mythical creature often associated with imperial power that can adapt and transform energy, the Dragon is the perfect zodiac sign to lead us into Period 9. This energy is potent, yet elegant and graceful; it carries a frequency rather than a vibration.

What does it represent?

The Dragon represents Yang energy and encourages us to ground ourselves, reflect and grow. As a Wood element year, it is also associated with springtime, symbolising growth and new beginnings. The Wood element invites us to speak our truth and to stay grounded and clear amidst the year’s strong energy. It is an exquisite balance between the Heavens and the Earth, the ancient wisdom and new energy, a collaboration we are invited to embody in this New Year. This will be a dynamic season to enter an inner metamorphosis for your mental, spiritual, emotional and physical aspects. This transformation will include finding a balance between our Divine Masculine and Feminine energies, allowing us to step into our authenticity, lean into our intuition, and cultivate a deeper connection to our higher selves.

Dragons throughout History Dragons hold significant symbolism across cultures. In China, they represent power and protection, while in Africa and Egypt, they signify water and abundance.

The Celtic Spiritualists respected dragons as forces of nature, the guardians of Mother Earth and all things sacred, and the protectors of nature and all living things.

The Dragon has been with us long before the beginning of time and will remain with

us long after the new earth, “the original earth,” is restored to its highest form.

Working with Dragon energy involves embracing the Divine Feminine, which is why you’ll often see archetypes like Quan Yin with Dragons. This year aligns with the rise of the Divine Feminine, emphasising grounding, forgiveness and openness.

“The Dragon symbolises a rebirth within and will embrace you as you are, lifting you in confidence, consciousness and frequency.”

What should I focus on in 2024?

Rooted in Earth energy, grounding ourselves becomes essential in the Wood year. To grow tall and strong and to stand in our authenticity like the sacred oak.

Stay firmly rooted to the Earth, to Gaia and the energetic environment, cultivating a routine of practices that ground us and keep us near our Mother.

Focus on forgiveness and openness.

Both are potent forces that accompany us in our journey to resolution. This may affect relationships, enhancing commitment and healthy communication, alongside a supportive energy for new marriages this year.

The Year of the Dragon invites us to live purposefully, driven by the highest outcomes. It encourages us to be fearless yet mindful, passionate yet patient, honour our sacred rage without allowing it to consume us, shape-shift, master our skills and welcome the nature of leadership to rise. It encourages us to embrace change, honour our inner energies and seek harmony between the Divine Masculine and Feminine. Just like

the Dragon remains in sacred caves in the underground realm, give yourself plenty of time in the spiritual cave to sit with your soul; reflection is the dragon’s medicine for embodying and consuming with intention this year.

The Year of the Dragon invites us to love ourselves and collaborate fully with Spirit, with the collective consciousness and with the Divine Energies at work.

This year, 2024, invites us to work with the Dragon energy, the Earth Dragon, the Wood dragon, the Water dragon, the dragon realm and the Dragon spirits that support and carry us through with their sovereign strength.

The Dragon is sensitive, so reflect before reacting to anything. Do the inner work to remain grounded in the Wood Element and to stay centered for sustainable clarity. Nothing is ‘missing’ within; you are whole. The Dragon symbolises a rebirth within and will embrace you as you are, lifting you in confidence, consciousness and frequency.

This year invites you to nourish your soul, healing the mind and body. It also invites you to put the spirit first; when your spirit is a priority, you will easily set boundaries and avoid anything that depletes your energy.

Beloved, the Dragon eagerly embraces these energies and invites you to foster profound connections.

Grant yourself the gift of space, practice honesty in your self-reflection and maintain unwavering dedication to your intentions and aspirations. Remember, you are complete, deserving and whole.

The approaching Year of the Dragon will only amplify your sense of wholeness, empowering you to stand firmly in your truth like never before.

Amanda Sophia joinamandasophia.com divinewomanawakening.com internationalfengshuischool.com

TEEN SPIRIT

true power HARNESS YOUR INNER STRENGTH.

by Margot Tubbiolo

True power comes from within, they say.

It’s hard to see that however, in a moment of disruption. It’s only visible after the fact.

Feelings have a sense of permanence in the moment, so sometimes we feel like they’re going to last forever. However, it’s important to remember this every time you have to pull yourself out of something during these times; think back to a time when you were going through something, even if you’ve had help, you have always been the common denominator in the solution. Even though I’m my own worst critic, I am my own saviour at the end of the day. Every time I have knocked myself down, or been knocked down, I thought I was never going to get up. Actually, I’m feeling that way right now. However, I know that the strength I have simply lies within; it takes time and energy but it’s there when I’m ready to take it.

I’ve had people say to me that I’m strong, even when I didn’t think it about myself. I needed to recognise my strength myself, to see how much power I truly have and that I am blinded to from day to day.

Everything I have been through has made me a very resilient person, who I’m proud

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of. I guarantee that if we all sat down and listed the things we’ve gone through, and somehow made it through, we would all walk with pride going about our days.

It’s hard when sometimes it feels like you’re creating these problems within yourself (like having anxious thoughts), but with that you have the tricks to pull your power from within. I think true power starts with being proud of who you are.

To me, this means that if everything was taken away from you (all outside factors included), would you be proud of your core self ? Asking these questions isn’t about berating yourself for not being good enough. It simply leaves room for self-reflection and making sure we view ourselves in a loving way. Because, if you’re proud of who you are, even if everything goes wrong in your life you still have a leg to stand on.

I make an effort to make myself proud every day. I think we can be hidden by our accomplishments, or our ranking in society, but true power has nothing to do with that. True power has to do with what good or bad you’re creating with the power you have within.

Everyone has different morals, or what they deem to be an honourable person. Get in the habit of asking yourself questions such as: Are you a strong enough person to stay calm and act with maturity in a fight?

Are you able to admit when you’re wrong?

Are you honest when it’s not necessarily the easiest thing to do?

In my opinion, these are the things we should ask ourselves in order to become better and harness that strength from within. We all have a small amount of power over someone or something and I want to make sure I’m doing right by myself and others.

“True power has to do with what good or bad you’re creating with the power you have within.”

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POSITIVE RHYTHM

path to sovereignty THE CELTIC WHEEL OF THE YEAR.

by Alison McEvoy in conversation with Mari Kennedy

“...put yourself at the centre [of the Celtic Wheel of the Year] and become the highest authority in your life.”

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Many moons ago, I dreaded the descent into winter each year. The weakening sun left me feeling vulnerable. The long dark evenings tuned me in too deeply to things I had no tools to fully feel or explore. As the escape routes of long summer days dwindled to a close, I felt an increasing sense of anxiety, fear even.

It wasn’t until 2018, upon discovering the work of Mari Kennedy and the Celtic Wheel of the Year, that my relationship to winter, darkness and letting go, completely transformed. I completed the transformation from fear of the diminishing of sunlight, movement and activity, to relishing the opportunity for rest, release and true transformation. In terms of polarities, I moved from being more comfortable in my masculine, to finding a place of greater ease with the deep feminine in me.

If you find winter a fearful place, the Celtic Wheel can help you move into right relationship with darkness and wintering; the process of shedding and going inward that happens throughout nature, and within us. The Celtic Wheel, for many of us, unearths the feminine force within, helping us live in a more balanced and sustainable way.

What is the Celtic Wheel of the Year?

“The Celtic Wheel of the Year is a calendar of eight festivals gifted to us from the many waves of ancestors - pre-Celtic, Celtic and post Celtic - in Western Europe.

Like much of what has been passed down from pre-history, it is a collection of whispers from the past. It appears to have its origins in mythology, the Coligny calendar, pagan ritual celebrations, archaeology, sacred sites, linguistics, folk traditions, druidry, wicca, neopaganism and archeoastronomy. The Wheel is a beautiful Immram (an Irish mythic soul journey) that shows us how to live more

fully with the ebbs and flows of being human, while reclaiming our sovereign centre… It tracks the archetypal journey of transformation through the sacred cycle of birth, death and rebirth. It also helps heal the split between our feminine and masculine nature.” (Mari Kennedy)

Stand at the Sovereign centre...

It is very common to feel more comfortable in one aspect/season of self. For many of is it is the summer self. This is the self that can keep going, is full of energy, buoyant, outgoing, sociable and progressive (The masculine aspect of self ).

Standing in one aspect of self and resisting change, ebb and flow can eventually lead us to burnout and exhaustion. Mari experienced this first hand. While she was flourishing in her high-performance career, her deep feminine was suffering. The body, which never lies, held her truth for her: “I couldn’t get pregnant. I was so stressed out in my life. I was so out of sync with my menstrual cycle. I pushed my body beyond its limits and I know now that it couldn’t create a human being... I was so busy with everything external that my body stopped producing progesterone because my body couldn’t keep up with what I was doing. My body was really asking me to come back to cycles. We are forces of nature and we forget that. We have cycles, like the tides, the seasons…”

“I was a 44-year-old woman when I found the Celtic Wheel. It’s a gentler way of being in the world and yet it’s also a more fierce way, because you are learning to fully inhabit all eight seasons – from Samhain to Autumn equinox – and you are learning how to work with all the energies of the creative cycle – the sacred cycles of birth, death and rebirth. It’s a return to original wholeness.”

Learning to stand in your Sovereign centre, allowing life to cycle through and around you, means you are aligned with

the creative flow of Life, inner and outer nature. The Wheel helps us to embrace whatever we are resisting in life; whether it’s the experience of death, disruption, loss, grief, embodied by the winter season, or, whether we are afraid to be seen, to blossom and shine out into the world, embodied by the summer season. These, and many more states in between, we gently learn to inhabit, unlock and flow through...ultimately enriching our lives.

“It’s coming into a new relationship to our depths, from there we can flex and flow with all the energies of being alive...We can’t be sovereign when we are half existing, only privileging the bright and the bigger. When you learn to inhabit the darkness you know how to be quiet, connect with the soul and that’s what I call evolved 21st century sovereignty...You learn to honour sadness and failure as much as delight and success.

You put yourself at the centre...and become the highest authority in your life.”

Join us...

You are not alone with the burdens you carry. The darkening nights needn’t be a place of fear or torment without light. The darkness when embraced reveals magic luminosity. The Wheel invites us to lay down our burdens as the trees lay down their leaves, drop them into the deep soil of winter to be transformed. It’s time to rest our bones and let wintering do its deep work. The deep feminine shows us the power that lies in letting go.

Mari celebrates her 13th year round the wheel this year and reflects that, “Every time I do the wheel I learn so much...it unravels me, undoes me, teaches me. It’s amazing. It’s such a gift journeying with it and letting it work me.”

marikennedy.com

POSITIVE TANTR A

bring out the best

in your lover THE TRANSFORMATIONAL POWER OF SEXUAL ALTRUISM.

by Dawn Cartwright

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“A musician must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write, if he is to be ultimately at peace with himself. What a man can be, he must be.

This tendency might be phrased as the desire to become more and more what one is, to become everything that one is capable of becoming.”

— Abraham Maslow

Abraham Maslow was one of many humanistic psychologists who recognised the common human drive to be and become who we truly are. His contemporary, Carl Rogers, developed a form of psychotherapy aimed at supporting the client in that endeavour.

This revolutionary form of psychotherapy consists of three simple, yet profound qualities - qualities that bring value and meaning to every relationship, including our most intimate one, bringing out the best in our lovers, and ourselves.

1st Quality : GENUINENESS The best sex happens when you are true to you. The same goes for your partner. If you accept yourself in the bedroom, chances are your partner will feel more accepted too. The more genuine you are, the more your partner feels invited to express themselves authentically.

Attune to the genuine you: • Does your sexual response feel connected to the emotions and sensations you feel inside? Are you responding uniquely in the present moment or recycling old coping mechanisms? Notice when your sexual response feels as natural as breathing - this is the genuine you.

• Build trust through embracing your vulnerabilities, making it possible for your partner to do the same. If you feel vulnerable opening up intimately, embrace those feelings, slow down and take your time to feel the next steps rather than rushing through the experience to mask your sensitivity.

• Create space to share feelings and desires about intimacy. Then, if you both feel open to it, expand the conversation to include feelings and desires about sex.

Make sure to check in with your partner so that the pace and depth of sharing feels comfortable to you both.

2nd Quality: EMPATHETIC UNDERSTANDING Empathy creates closeness and surrender.

When you take the time to genuinely

understand who your partner is as a complex human being, you gain insight into who they are as a lover. You discover what lights them up in the bedroom and how they love to be loved.

and empowered we feel to express our uniqueness. It’s a higher and purer form of connection that enlightens the sexual relationship.

Some ways to elevate your lover through unconditional positive regard:

Shift into empathetic understanding: • Put yourself in your partner’s shoes. What is it like to have a busy day at the office, • See the best in your partner - and arrive home exhausted - and hope to find remember all of that still exists even in a few moments for making love? Shift challenging moments. Trust your partner your perspective from your thoughts and (and yourself ) to navigate intimate expectations, to those of your partner. moments that may be different than Listen and be there without fixing the expected, knowing intimacy can and problem, giving advice, or making things often does intensify when we explore new better by ignoring your own needs and sexual experiences together. desires - this is empathetic understanding.

• Connect with all the ways your partner is intrinsically extraordinary. Let them know their inherent worth spans deep within and far beyond your relationship.

Tune in to who your partner is in the world - and in the bedroom. Remember why you fell in love.

“To experience our lover as so extremely valuable and meaningful that they become who they are destined to be...”

•W hen you listen, really listen. Bring your full attention. What is your partner saying, really? Maybe they are telling you how they love to be touched. It’s important to realise this may be a very vulnerable conversation for them; check in to make sure you’ve heard them fully, then validate their feelings and explore giving that type of touch with feedback.

•C reate connection by finding common ground in the bedroom. What is the deeper meaning and importance of your partner’s sexual preferences and desires?

This is a place where you can discover the deeper similarities you share, rather than focus on superficial differences.

3rd Quality: UNCONDITIONAL POSITIVE REGARD Unconditional love is an emotion; unconditional positive regard is a conscious choice. Feeling securely loved and accepted on an unconditional basis profoundly influences how free

• Valuing your partner is a choice you make; it’s an internal commitment to elevating the relationship through an elevated perspective. It’s a daily practice of prioritising and understanding them fully for who they are. Explore your partner’s body with touch, tune in and connect with the person deep inside. This is unconditional positive regard.

The Transformational Power of Sexual Altruism At the top of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Pyramid, beyond self-actualisation, is altruism. To experience our lover as so extremely valuable and meaningful that they become who they are destined to be - this is sexual altruism. It is the ultimate expression of love. The ultimate form of true power.

Dawn Cartwright is a NeoTantra visionary, sacred writer, world traveler and innovator in NeoTantra-SelfActualisation fusion. Discover more about Dawn and her programs here: dawncartwright.com

inner

POSITIVE POWER

power TAKE CONSCIOUS CONTROL OF YOUR LIFE.

by Grace-Anne Kelly

“The measure of someone’s inner power is comparable to the number of times they fall down and get back up.”

Inner power comes from not allowing outer circumstances or people to control your emotions. As we venture this path of life, we encounter many circumstances that test our capability of regaining our personal power. Our sufferings bring about great resilience within us and prove our strength of character.

Think of the metaphor of the arrow; in order for the arrow to go far, it must be pulled back with great tension. During our difficult experiences, we are challenged to let go and forgive because in forgiving, we release the negative charge and propel ourselves forward. There is no personal freedom without true forgiveness, both of ourselves and of others. Sometimes this feels unfathomable to do, but is absolutely necessary to free yourself from lower states of consciousness. Choosing not to forgive means the situation or person has control over your personal power.

Your personal power is your energy life force, and where you place your focus, energy flows and the universe will continue to give you similar experiences until you learn to pull your energy back.

Continuing to focus on what angers you keeps you looping in lower timelines and

26

further from your higher calling; it lowers your vibrational state. When you are constantly feeding these low vibrational states, it’s harder to raise your vibration, thus becoming further detached from what’s meant for you.

Authenticity also brings you closer towards your personal power. Being authentically you and not a version of what others expect from you aligns you with people and experiences that empower you. Your power lies within your authentic state. Deep down, we know what would bring us joy, and that desire is so close at hand if we could overcome the fear of choosing it. Authenticity may lose you some friends, but wouldn’t you rather live in a state of authentic power than be drained by trying to be a version of you that’s not honest with yourself ?

You are the creative dream weaver of your own life; everything to this point in your life was planned by your soul before you came here. You chose this life, and in

every now moment, you have a choice of direction. This might be a difficult one to hear, but knowing this gives you great power. If you know you created this dream, then you know you can change it anytime you like through the choices you make.

Don’t like your circumstances? Change them.

Love is also a tool for regaining your personal power. Love fuels all your endeavours; it makes you feel invincible.

Sharing the love within you as a service to humanity lifts you to higher states of consciousness. Love is the ultimate power; we came here for love. If you remain connected to God, the source of pure loving consciousness, and you find time in solitude with this connection, then God will dust off the chamber of your heart to unveil a love so deep you will know an inner power that can never be taken from you.

Instagram: @graceannekelly

“…in order for the arrow to go far, it must be pulled back with great tension.”

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POSITIVELY METAPHYSICAL

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tune into your heart OUR WELL OF INNER KNOWING.

by Alison Canavan

Our true power resides deep within our heart. It lies in our ability to not only be present but to approach everything we do in our life with reverence, ritual and sacredness. In a world that moves so fast, tapping into our inner world as our true force of creation is one of the most powerful things we can do.

Wellbeing has become, for many, a tick on their ever-growing to-do list, and sometimes we forget that practices like gratitude, meditation, movement, being in nature and prayer are gifts of self-love that allow and enable us to open a portal deep within our hearts. This portal contains our pre-coded destiny that, once reawakened, becomes our most magnificent guide.

The heart’s journey holds power so rich and nourishing that even those uninitiated on their spiritual path can find their way back home. Home is where the heart is, but it requires conscious connection, patience, trust and inspired action. Our true power lies in our ability to tap into our own authenticity and be guided from our well of inner knowing regardless of what the outside world says.

Each person is here to do something only they can do. We are here to leave our own unique imprint on this world.

No one came to follow the leader or get caught up in shoulds, conditioning and soul suppression. But when you have an education system and a society that encourages sameness and discourages individuality and creativity, you end up with a lot of depressed and repressed souls seeking liberation, growth and freedom.

Some seek it through control, destruction and addiction as the drive for

pain relief can be so immense, but there is another way. Ask yourself, “Is the path I’m on taking me towards the life I would love to live or further away?” The quality of our life can be determined by the quality of the questions we ask ourselves. So be brave and bold enough to ask yourself questions that push you to dig deeper, connect more intimately with yourself and build a relationship with yourself and your life that you actually not only want to be in but also love being a part of.

“…tapping into our inner world as our true force of creation is one of the most powerful things we can do. ”

Your true power is not loud, forceful or bossy; it’s a grounded, calm energy that commands attention and respect through its receptivity and openness. You will know when you are in touch with this part of you because you feel whole, aligned and complete.

Your true power comes from being unapologetically you and trusting that those who are meant to be in your life will stay and those who were there for the wrong reasons will leave pretty quickly. No faking, no games, no guessing, no manipulation, just pure YOU. When you are tapped into your true power you become magnetic and draw to you experiences, relationships and opportunities meant for your highest good.

So take a moment, sit quietly, place

a hand on your heart and breathe. Take time to soften in towards your inner world and create space to listen. Listen for guidance in the form of thoughts, impulses or feelings. Where would you love to go? What would you love to do?

Who would you love to be? Notice I used the word love and not should, have to or is expected of me. What makes you come alive? What brings you joy, and how often do you laugh?

Laughter is the medicine your heart loves the most. When we laugh, we become timeless, without worry, and so fully present for all the deliciousness of life. We are cracked open into the most expansive version of ourselves and are more relaxed, open and receptive.

Your true power lies in just being you; after all, everyone else is taken. So, laugh more, listen to your heart and just take the next best step. You don’t have to try so hard to be the person you were born to be; you just have to let go of everything you were conditioned to believe you had to be to fit in. Then watch the magic happen.

Alison Canavan is an intuitive coach, speaker, author, meditation and breathwork teacher and currently lives in Texas. She is the creator of a womens online membership called The Aly Code - Activate Loving Yourself through mindset, meditation and Breathwork.

alisoncanavan.com

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GOOD LIFE 2.0

the power of

community HARNESSING OUR INTERCONNECTION.

by Davie Philip

“Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine.”

Throughout history, humans have thrived in groups. As social beings, we are driven by a deep need for connection and a sense of belonging. Collaboration and cooperation are fundamental aspects of our nature, essential for our well-being and flourishing.

The Irish phrase “Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine,” which translates to “we live in each other’s shadows,” captures the essence of the power of community. It reminds us that we are all interconnected and interdependent and rely on each other for support, strength, and resilience.

Over the past 50 years, there has been a significant decline in social capital— the networks, relationships and social connections that sustain us. To a certain extent, this is due to the rise of a hyperindividualistic economy with a focus on consumption and economic growth. This has led to increased feelings of loneliness, reduced trust in others, along with a massive acceleration in the destruction of nature and a concentration of wealth among a handful of billionaires.

As a result, we lose the collective power to address common challenges.

Today, as we face existential threats such as climate breakdown, many people are struggling to meet their basic needs, feel increasingly isolated and powerless, and are too busy to engage in collective efforts.

Strong communities provide us with a sense of belonging and purpose, and they offer us solidarity and strength in the

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face of adversity. What if we could reclaim the power of community and harness it to shape a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable future for all?

Defining ‘community’ can be difficult, as there is a wide range of types, including communities of place, interest, practice, circumstance, and now virtual communities. At its core, a community is a collective of individuals united by shared identity, values or interests.

Margaret Wheatley, an acclaimed writer on these topics, says that “there is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about,” highlighting the need to collectively imagine a different future and the importance of connecting and working together.

Much of my work revolves around empowering people to strengthen the resilience of their local places through community-led sustainability initiatives.

These grassroots efforts are where individuals collaborate purposefully to achieve specific environmental and social objectives and help us meet our needs.

These initiatives include energy cooperatives, community-supported agriculture projects, repair cafés, community gardens and woodlands, social farms, tool and toy libraries, Food Hubs, Men’s Sheds, Street Feasts, communityled housing, community art and cultural events, seed banks, and locally owned cafés

and shops.

These pioneering communityled and place-based initiatives are demonstrating the power of communities to take control of their future, even when operating on the margins and with very little support.

These efforts draw from Ireland’s rich historical tradition of cooperatives and serve as a fresh demonstration of commoning—a practice in which communities collectively steward and govern shared resources, encompassing land, water or knowledge.

Challenging the dominant story of individualism, privatisation and commodification, communityled initiatives are actively restoring ecosystems, strengthening local economies, providing sustenance and care, and thus, playing an indispensable role in steering us towards a just, resilient, and regenerative future. “Whatever the problem, community is the solution!”

Davie Philip is a community catalyst and facilitator at Cultivate.ie, the sustainability cooperative based in Cloughjordan Ecovillage.

“Strong communities provide us with a sense of belonging and purpose, and they offer us solidarity and strength in the face of adversity.”

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“The more my sense of “I” rests as awareness, the awareness that doesn’t come and go, the more free energy is to oscillate on this continuum.”

time to

wake up WE ARE ONE.

Interviewer: Paul Congdon Interviewee: Daniel Schmidt

By Persephone Kianka

With spiritual awakenings becoming more commonplace around the globe in retreats, spiritual courses and private meditations, what is going on in people’s consciousnesses? Are we waking up to a new human experience, and what will that mean in everyday life?

Daniel Schmidt, founder of the Awaken the World Initiative, believes that the current state of the world is accelerating our spiritual ascension.

“There’s sort of this pervasive feeling that the answers are not out there, and it seems like the world is priming people for awakening the way it is now.”

At this point, there is almost no choice but to go through the “dark night of the soul” due to a growing “disillusionment with the matrix”—the institutions and systems we once exalted.

In our conversation with Daniel, who created the Samadhi Center in Ontario, Canada, we explored what is on the other side of that disillusionment.

STEPPING OUT OF CHARACTER For him, the most “direct path” requires recognising our “choiceless awareness” that is ever-present and has no preference.

“The more my sense of “I” rests as awareness, the awareness that doesn’t come and go, the more free energy is to oscillate on this continuum.”

Once we no longer identify with our “character,” our preferences, we can be open to all that life offers. Daniel believes that “our natural state that isn’t mediated by this character is just an openness to everything so there’s not a judging of good or bad or positive or negative.”

Though it is human nature to avoid pain and seek pleasure, when we try to hang onto only the good experiences, our energy contracts, and we actually get less.

Having started on his spiritual path 25 years ago, Daniel can confirm that there is much less suffering in his life now, one of the many fruits of this path.

THE GREAT UNKNOWN

“I AM” CONSCIOUSNESS

He explained that our human experience becomes richer and more awesome as we realise how little we really know. When the character has been humbled over and over by life, there comes a point when it stops seeking “truth” from an analytical perspective.

“I think a point for me on the path was that little conditioned self really came to know its own limitations and the giving up of that seeking.”

When we let go of that seeking, a more profound recognition of the present moment and all the direct wisdom it holds is possible.

For example, some shifts are happening at the Samadhi Center, and Daniel doesn’t know how things will unfold, but he is more than okay with that.

“For me, there is an aliveness in that,” he said, acknowledging the excitement of not knowing.

He believes having a “beginner’s mind” is the most intelligent way to approach life because even the greatest masters, like Socrates, would acknowledge how little they know.

“If we can create conditions for awakening to happen, what are those conditions?”

This question has been top of mind for Daniel in his work at the Samadhi Centre over the past 15 years. For him, “conditions of no escape,” as he was meditating in an extreme container, worked best, so, in his intensives, he creates those conditions for participants.

Moving away from the idea of techniques, Daniel said that coming into beingness through mediation and self-inquiry practices with a partner are the best tools he knows of to precipitate awakening.

In particular, looking into a partner’s eyes is an effective way to become completely present and aware of what’s happening within the selfstructure. It is also an opportunity to recognise the other as self.

“So to me, there’s a deeper sense of love that is what the mystics talk about: love, divine love, that is connected to the truth of who I am. The realisation of the one consciousness that we all are sharing.”

Most of us have encountered the concept of oneness before, but it is another thing to realise it directly and live from that state.

In a beautiful summary of our human experience, Daniel explained, “There’s this continuum of possibility, and when our sense of “I” is not wrapped up in any preference or any experience, then it’s all a show, it’s all just a magic show.”

LETTING GO OF LABELS While we, living as our characters, feel a need to label everything, there is a value in staying in unfiltered awareness.

Having gone through diverse experiences of “death” or letting go, Daniel got to understand this first-hand.

“From the perspective of that character, fighting for life, this experience didn’t feel benevolent; it felt hellish, it felt like death.” When a blissful rapture followed this uncomfortable experience, his character naturally tried to hold onto that.

However, in his most recent “death”, there was no charge attached to either end of the experience. “It was fully experienced, but it was just the body going through it,” Daniel shared.

awakentheworld.com

34 34

“Mediumship is about knowing oneself and learning how to allow and surrender to the stillness of your being.”

the spiritual path of

mediumship A MEETING WITH JAMES VAN PRAAGH.

by Gloria Garcia

Meet the Medium When I heard that James Van Praagh would be holding a workshop in Dublin, I was elated. I have been following James since 1995, starting with the talk show, The Other Side. NBC ran this talk show about paranormal and unexplained phenomena for only one season. However, this was long enough to spark my interest in mediumship. Through the years I continued to follow James as he appeared on several shows, published over a dozen books and co-executive produced one of my favourite TV shows, The Ghost Whisperer. The show is about a young woman who uses her gift of communicating with the dead to pass on messages to the living.

While James has been heavily involved in TV and film, often paving the way for others behind him, he is far removed from Tinseltown. He is, in fact, one of the most caring and down-to-earth individuals I have ever met.

Say Yes to Your Ancestral Gifts Although James comes from a long line of family members who possessed the ability to communicate with spirit, James initially rejected this path. He studied

and pursued a career in broadcasting and communication, hoping to become a sitcom writer. However, he soon realised that his destiny involved raising the consciousness of this planet.

Throughout the years, James learned how to develop his abilities and began working full time as a medium. He soon caught the attention of Hollywood and was asked to appear on several shows, including Unsolved Mysteries, Larry King Live, The Oprah Winfrey Show, The View and 48 Hours. He also began writing and soon had a bestseller with his book, Talking to Heaven.

Fast forward over 41 years later and James has written over a dozen international bestsellers. He has dedicated his life to helping spirits connect with their loved ones. His biggest joy is teaching and empowering others. His online school, The James Van Praagh School of Mystical Arts, offers a variety of courses; from mastering meditation, to developing life tools to manage grief, stress and forgiveness.

Mediumship and Spiritual Evolution Being a medium is not just about sharing messages. Mediumship is about knowing oneself and learning how to allow and

surrender to the stillness of your being.

Mediums must bring themselves to a higher vibration, and stay there, while connecting with spirit. It is through this loving energy that spirit is able to come through.

James teaches how to work from the heart centre, a compassionate place from which we see God in all beings. He clearly enjoys teaching and helping others realise the potential of their spiritual selves.

When asked how mediumship can raise the world’s consciousness, James replied, “Mediumship is a doorway to open people up to the truth that you are a soul having a human experience, not the other way around. Mediumship is just a tool to help others realise that they are themselves beautiful, powerful and spiritual beings that will never die.”

Every morning James repeats this mantra, “Healthy in Mind, Happy in Mind, Holy in Mind”, and it is evident that this has impacted his daily life and interactions with spirit and people. He utilises his gifts with an open and happy heart and shares them lovingly, always realising the spark of the divine in us all. vanpraagh.com

your

POSITI V E AT TR ACTION

superpower ASK, LISTEN AND ACT.

by Judith McAdam

Your Superpower lies in the connection between your mind and the universe.

Believe it or not, you have the ability to tap into infinite knowledge and wisdom, accessing everything you need to succeed.

Quantum physics tells us that everything in the universe is made up of vibrations and energy. Your mind, being a powerful instrument, has the capacity to tune in to these vibrations, to translate them and take downloads. You are intricately connected to the entire universe, allowing you to tune into a vast network of information and energy. Imagine your mind as a receiver, constantly attuned to the frequencies of the universe. Through this connection, you have access to a wealth of information, ideas and inspiration that you can use like your Sat Nav in your everyday life.

Pay attention to the thoughts, ideas and inspirations that come to you seemingly out of nowhere. These downloads may arrive as flashes of insight or sudden clarity. You might call it intuition, gut feelings, a hunch or even a deep knowing. Trust in the information you receive and allow it to guide you in your everyday life.

Intuition is a powerful tool, much like your Sat Nav; it guides you towards the right path and helps you make decisions that align with your true self. It’s that gut feeling, that inner knowing, that whispers to you when something feels

36

right or wrong. With practice, you can hone your intuition and unlock incredible insights and opportunities.

I have a very simple formula I use all the time. I ASK, I LISTEN and I ACT on my intuition. This powerful but simple formula never ever fails me. But there is little point in ASKING for clarity or guidance if you are not willing to LISTEN and ACT upon it. For example, you get a brilliant idea, you get excited about it, then you talk yourself out of doing it, bringing money worries or lack of selfworth into the mix.

When you have a question or need guidance, ASK the universe for assistance.

Pose your question clearly and sincerely, and then open yourself up to receive the answers. They may not come straight away.

Chances are, if you are stressed, your mind is too busy in fear to hear the answers.

I ASK hundreds of times a day, ‘Show me what to do here’ or ‘Give me clarity on…’ Intuition may come in the form of a sudden idea, a synchronistic event, or a subtle nudge in a certain direction. Pay attention to the signs and signals that show up in your life.

LISTENING to your intuition requires trust and courage. It may go against conventional thought or logical reasoning, but remember that your intuition is connected to a higher intelligence.

Have faith in your inner guidance

and take inspired ACTION towards your goals, not forced action through fear. Trust that the universe has your back and will support you every step of the way.

As you continue to ASK, LISTEN and ACT on your intuition, your life will be infused with a sense of authenticity and alignment. You will begin to attract the right opportunities and make decisions that truly serve your needs.

So, embrace your Superpower because we are all, each and every one of us, endowed with it. It is your direct link to the boundless wisdom of the universe.

Begin to trust in yourself, trust in the process, and watch as your life unfolds in ways you never imagined possible.

To harness this Superpower, start by quieting your mind and creating space for intuition to emerge. If you are very stressed or anxious, you are probably listening to your fear and not your intuition. Meditation, mindfulness and deep breathing exercises can help you achieve a state of clarity and receptivity.

If you need some help with this, listen to my Superpower Meditative Visualisation on my website. It will help you build up the habit of reaching for that true power within you.

With love, Judith judithmcadam.com

“You are intricately connected to the entire universe, allowing you to tune into a vast network of information and energy.”

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Phytochemicals help to; • Helps stimulate the immune system • Contains antioxidant properties • Helps reduce inflammation • Assists in preventing DNA damage and May help with DNA repair • Reduce the kind of oxidative damage to cells that can spark illness • Contributes to normal energy & metabolism • Assists in normal psychological & cognitive function & development • Contributes to the normal formation of red blood cells.

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It’s Time...

ADVENTageous is an annual event that takes place starting in December, but you can start anytime.

It is a wellness campaign and challenge focused on ‘Giving back to yourself and others’. Participants select from a range of provided wellbeing tools and commit to practicing at least one daily if not more for a 24-day period.

At the end of the challenge, if you thrive and benefit, you are encouraged to give back to others by donating to charity or paying it forward..

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE for more details. www.adventageous.ie

POSITIVELY ORGANIC

have jerusalem artichokes the power to

Solve Problems?

A PLANT WITH HUGE POTENTIAL.

by Hans Wieland

Growing up in Baden-Württemberg in Germany, I was aware of what my parents called “Roter Rossler” but much too young to enjoy this digestive spirit made from Topinambur and Beetroot. Later in my late twenties, I was introduced to Topinambur at our local healthfood store, and when we moved to Ireland, one of the first crops we grew was Topinambur because it is definitely one of “the most abundant, curiously neglected and oddly named” (New York Times) vegetables to grow, but first things first.

What’s in a name?

Helianthus tuberosus is known here as Jerusalem Artichoke, but they are neither artichokes nor from Jerusalem. The Italian for sunflower artichoke is girasole articiocco, and girasole appears to have morphed into Jerusalem over the centuries.

It is a native of the North American plains and has been cultivated by the indigenous population since prehistoric times before it made its way across the Atlantic to Europe in 1640. The Native Americans called them sunroots, which is definitely the best name for this wonderful vegetable.

In vegan and vegetarian circles, they are often referred to as sunchokes. In our native Germany, Jerusalem Artichokes are known as Topinambur or Erdapfel

(Earth Apple) and often called “DiabetikerKartoffel” (diabetes potato). Rich in the carbohydrate inulin, it has been promoted as a healthy choice for type 2 diabetics.

How to grow Jerusalem Artichokes In our experience, once you grow them, you will always have them, as it is nearly impossible to find all the tubers when harvesting and each small part of the root will produce another plant. That is why it makes sense to grow them in a permanent spot. As plants grow up to 3m high, they can act as a windbreak (but would need staking against strong winds) but can naturally shade other plants in the garden, so pick your site well.

You can plant tubers from April into well-prepared soil, spaced at 15cm between tubers and 1m between rows. Tubers can be left in the soil and harvested as needed.

If you have heavy, wet soil, it is best to lift and store them. After harvest, store the tubers in sand in a cool but frost-free shed.

They will easily keep for four months. The huge foliage makes good compost. As Jerusalem Artichokes are pest and diseasefree, growing in the same spot does not cause any problems.

Varieties The tubers come in many shapes and colours

depending on the variety and growing conditions. They can be white, pale brown, dark brown, red and purple in colour and knobbly, elongated, round and club-shaped in form. The size of the tubers ranges from 7cm to 15cm. There are a number of varieties available in Europe, but none of them are well-known or easily available. Our variety is Fuseau (long, smooth, white tubers, excellent yield) and seems to be the variety of choice of people growing them. Quickcrop have them in their catalogue, and Fruithill Farm has Rema (red-skinned, round and knobbly), Blanco (pale in colour and smooth) and Bianca (purple and knobbly).

Nutritious and tasty and with a reputation Jerusalem Artichoke tubers are very nutritious. They have zero fat, an optimal ratio of minerals (iron, magnesium, potassium, manganese, calcium, phosphorus, silicon and zinc), contain Vitamins B, C and E and are rich in protein.

These proteins include 10 essential amino acids that are not produced by the human body and come from food. As they are rich in pectin (11% of dry matter weight), they can help to reduce cholesterol levels, normalise bowel movements and improve metabolic processes.

The most important benefit is the

“The Native Americans called them sunroots, which is definitely the best name for this wonderful vegetable.”

39

high concentration of the rare natural biologically active substance – inulin, which is responsible for the uniquely delicious, slightly sweet flavour of the tubers. This carbohydrate is similar to fructose and can be up to 17%. As our digestive enzymes cannot break down the inulin, it moves on into the large intestine, where the task of breaking it down is, therefore, sub-contracted to ‘friendly’ intestinal bacteria. As a by-product, they produce carbon dioxide, and Jerusalem Artichokes have a reputation for causing wind. It only affects some people and is usually counteracted by eating it with parsley. If you are new to eating Jerusalem Artichokes regularly, we recommend starting with small portions. And the more often you eat them, the better your body deals with the sugar!

Finally, the delicious tubers can be used in various ways in the kitchen.

They can be eaten raw, grated in a salad or cooked, boiled, roasted or blended in a soup. They are also one of the best prebiotic foods and encourage all the good bacteria in the lower gut. The rumbling in your stomach and other side effects are the result of the feeding of all the good bacteria.

Jerusalem Artichoke as a strategic crop for solving problems?

Jerusalem Artichokes are at present mainly grown for their edible tubers in North America, Europe, China, Russia, and Korea and also in Egypt, Australia and New Zealand. They are still an underutilised crop but have huge potential and could become a viable crop for Irish or European producers.

They can also be grown as livestock feed and sometimes as an ornamental plant, especially for the flowering types, but there are multiple uses considered and researched worldwide at present, e.g. as functional food, as a natural herbicide and fungicide, as an energy crop for biofuel production and as paper pulp.

In 2018, the organic gardener and Nuffield scholar Klaus Laitenberger published a report, “The potential of growing Yacon and other Lost Crops of the Incas and Jerusalem Artichoke as crops and functional foods in Ireland”, pointing to the huge potential of this undervalued crop. In his report, he quotes a study by Simakov and Starovoytov (Simakov, E. A. – Starovoytov , V. I. (2007) Potatoes and Jerusalem artichoke – products of the future. In Informagrotekh, 2007), where they claim that Jerusalem Artichokes are one of the best crops for absorbing carbon

dioxide. They calculated that one hectare of forest can absorb 3-4 tons of carbon dioxide, while one hectare of Jerusalem Artichoke can absorb 6 tons of carbon dioxide. They also found that the strong woody stems of Jerusalem artichokes make a good raw material for the pulp for the paper industry. They reckon that one hectare of Jerusalem Artichoke can save five hectares of forest.

The future of the Jerusalem Artichokes, an unassuming, prolific and hardy plant with so many nutritional and environmental benefits, certainly has only just begun.

Hans Wieland works and teaches at Neantog Kitchen Garden School in Cliffony, Co.Sligo

neantog.com

POSITIVE FOOD

winter recipes GET COSY THIS WINTER WITH SOME FEEL GOOD FOOD.

by Gaby Wieland

VEGETARIAN STUFFED ORANGE OR YELLOW SCALLOP SQUASH These small squashes are fun and tasty. They are a variety of summer squashes notable for their small size and one (or one-and-a-half for a big appetite) is enough for one portion. You can use any small squash variety for this recipe.

Ingredients: • 3 orange or yellow scallop squashes or small squash of your choice • 2-3 tbsp olive oil • ½ onion, diced • 1 carrot, finely diced • 1 stalk celery, finely diced • ½ red pepper, finely diced • 2 sprigs rosemary, leaves removed from stem and chopped finely • 1 tbsp garlic, finely chopped • ½ tsp salt • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper • 1 ½ cups prepared couscous (we use spelt couscous) or brown rice • 3 tbsp parsley, finely chopped (as garnish)

Method; 1 Preheat oven to 190°C (fan 180°C)/375°F/gas 5. Lightly oil a baking tray.

2 Slice off the top stem of the squash to create a level surface and cut in half. Scoop out

seeds and pulp, leaving 2cm/¾″ wall.

3 Lightly oil the inside and sides of squash. Bake in oven, cut side down for 15 minutes.

Remove from oven, flip over, and get ready to fill it up.

4 Bring a large pan to medium high heat and add 1 ½ tbsp of oil. When hot, add onion,

carrot, celery, pepper, rosemary, salt and pepper. Cook for 7-9 minutes or until translucent and soft. Add garlic and cook 1-2 minutes or until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in cooked couscous or rice. Add salt and pepper to taste.

5 Generously fill up the squash with the mixture. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes or

until squash is tender.

Notes: • You can also add parmesan, feta, mozzarella or vegan cheese to the filling, or top the filling with it before baking.

• You can also fill the small squashes with any leftovers that you may have.

• If you want to keep it gluten-free you can get chickpea or lentil couscous or use rice.

CHOCOLATE MOUSSE AND VANILLA CREME SAUCE You only need very small quantities of this chocolate mousse. The avocados replace butter and cream in this recipe and if you didn’t know they were in it, you wouldn’t be able to guess. Enjoy!

CHOCOLATE MOUSSE

VANILLA CREAM SAUCE

Ingredients: • ½ cup figs (soaked until soft, unless soft already) or Medjool dates, pitted • ½ cup maple syrup or honey or agave syrup • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1 ½ cup mashed or chopped avocados (= 2 avocados, depending on size) • ½ cup cocoa powder (e.g. Green & Black’s organic cocoa powder or raw cacao powder) • ½ cup water

Ingredients: • 1 cup raw cashew nuts, walnuts or nuts of your choice (soaked for at least 2 hours) • ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons water (depending how thick you want cream) • 1-2 tbsp agave syrup, maple syrup or honey • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method; 1 Blend figs or dates, agave syrup, maple syrup or honey and vanilla extract in food processor until smooth.

2 If you don’t have a blender use a food processor but

2 Add avocado and cocoa powder and process until

Method; 1 Place all the ingredients in a blender and process on high speed until smooth.

you might not achieve the same fine consistency.

3 Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Stored

in a sealed container in the refrigerator this sauce will keep for five days.

creamy.

3 Stop to scrape bowl occasionally. Add water and

Note: Soak nuts for vanilla cream sauce for 2-6 hours and discard soak water.

process briefly.

4 Will keep for at least three days in refrigerator.

Variation: You can add ½ -1 date or fig before blending, depending on your taste.

5 Prepare in small bowls with added vanilla

cream sauce and decorated with lemon balm leaves, heartsease and fresh fruit (raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, red or black currants…)

Tip: If you find chocolate powder too stimulating you can replace it with carob powder, which lacks the stimulating components.

‘Neantóg Cookbook - Gaby’s favourite recipes’ is available at neantog.com/shop

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“The avocados replace butter and cream in this recipe”

Cold hands and feet?

This problem may be a result of having poor blood circulation, and the solution could be tablets with ginkgo biloba.

Every inch of the body depends on a wellfunctioning blood supply that delivers oxygen and nutrients to the cells. As we humans age, our blood circulation becomes less efficient, leading to problems like cold hands and feet.

Supports your blood circulation It stands to reason that ginkgo biloba is so popular among older people. The active compounds in the extract dilate your blood vessels, helping your blood to flow more easily through them.

What is ginkgo biloba?

Ginkgo biloba is a plant extract made from the leaves of ginkgo biloba, an ancient temple tree that is also known as maidenhair tree. The extract contains a variety of biologically active compounds.

Two specific compounds – ginkgoflavone glycosides and terpene lactones – are particularly well-documented and have been shown to support good blood circulation and good cognitive function. Today, thanks to scientific research that has delved into the underlying mechanisms of these

active ingredients, it is possible to manufacture high-quality extracts that deliver the exact same amount of active compound with each tablet. Ginkgo-Biloba Pharma Nord represents this new generation of pharmaceutical-standard ginkgo biloba products that have become increasingly popular, namely among the elderly.

Speed up your blood flow Ginkgo biloba is a traditional herbal medicinal product used to alleviate the symptoms of poor blood flow in conditions such as cold hands and feet. To get the desired effects, it is essential that you choose a product with a documented content of active compounds.

Your bloodstream carries oxygen and nutrients to every single part of your body – from head to toe – to ensure that all your body functions work properly. However, the flow of blood through the smallest capillaries can decrease for various reasons, and that may cause problems like cold fingers and toes.

Ginkgo-Biloba Pharma Nord has a high content of active compounds: The high content of active compounds makes it possible to obtain the desired effect with 1 tablet twice a day.

Traditional herbal medicinal product used to alleviate the symptoms of poor blood flow in conditions such as cold hands and feet, exclusively based upon longstanding use. Always read the leaflet.

Buy it in your local pharmacy. Ask your pharmacist for more information.

Tel: 01 899 1650 ireland@pharmanord.com • www.pharmanord.ie

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Bare: Skin Wellness SKINCARE FOR EVERY STAGE OF LIFE.

by Persephone Kianka

Speaking with Leanne Browne, founder of Bare: Skin Wellness, the amount of love and intention she puts into her skincare brand instantly became apparent.

Eight years ago, when she had her first child, Leanne naturally became interested in how what she was putting into and onto her body affected her and her baby’s health.

When so many products weren’t meeting her needs, interfering with her hormones and moods, she took it upon herself to make her own.

“I wanted to create products that suited every person, every family member, regardless of what age they were or stage they were in their personal or hormonal development,” she explained.

Bare: Skin Wellness offers tallow- and plant-based products, as well as products that combine both to accommodate every kind of lifestyle.

“When so many products weren’t meeting her needs, interfering with her hormones and moods, she took it upon herself to make her own.”

With its exceptional nutrient profile, tallow is very effective on every type of skin, and Leanne assured us that she only sources hers from a 100% organic and ethical farm.

For those who value a plant-based approach to skincare, they also have lovely skin wellness products made from

premium botanical oils and waxes.

Like the tallow-based range, Leanne’s plant-based skincare is free from potentially harmful chemicals the skin can absorb, making it a better choice for yourself and the planet.

Having experienced the value of plant- and animal-based products, Leanne believes “we need to embrace the best of both of those worlds.” She loves talking to her customers and encourages anyone interested to reach out for a personalised recommendation.

bareskinwellness.com Instagram: @bare.skin.wellness

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Empower Your Healing ADDRESSING THE ROOT CAUSE.

by Persephone Kianka

Holistic Haircare

CARE FOR YOURSELF ON ALL LEVELS.

by Paul Congdon Interviewee: Ivana Margarini While many of us put thought into the foods we consume and the skincare products we use, we may forget to consider our haircare. Ivana Margarini, one of the founders of Conlemany, started researching this crucial aspect of well-being 15 years ago after her husband was diagnosed with skin cancer.

Today, at Conlemany, she uses entirely natural products, meaning you can eat or drink them. With the help of plants, herbs and flowers, Ivana creates dyes that actually benefit the hair, unlike chemical dyes that destroy it.

“We don’t hurt anybody’s health. We’re looking after our clients’ health, which is, for me, one of the most important things,” she told us.

“Not only do clients leave the salon with a lovely, natural look, but numerous benefits to their well-being.”

As the only substances going down the drain are plants and water, they are also looking out for the planet.

Ivana explained that if you have dark hair and want to be blonde, it’s impossible without chemicals. However, she has a range of beautiful colours that perfectly cover white hair.

Not only do clients leave the salon with a lovely, natural look, but numerous benefits to their well-being. The ingredients in her dyes, such as chamomile, are designed to soothe people’s minds and scalps, relieving issues like psoriasis and eczema.

Ivana also wants to give her clients the best food. Paul has been into her shop and was amazed by their range of unique food items, from hemp pasta to seed oils they coldpress right in front of you.

If you have a sweet tooth, you can even enjoy a sugarfree cannoli with your coffee while getting your hair done.

The effort Ivana and her team have put into making Conlemany a holistic haven is evident. She hopes that more and more hairdressers will follow suit, making it possible for us to take care of our looks, health and environment simultaneously. conlemany.com

Medical intuitive Áine Hughes entered the world of healing as a physiotherapist but quickly realised there is more to physical restrictions than meets the eye.

She saw returning clients with chronic pain that wasn’t improving, no matter what she did for them and knew there had to be a better solution for them than long-term medication. Áine’s “aha” moment came in the form of Emma Turton, a leading Medical Intuitive in Australia whose work was about finding the root cause of someone’s pain or life challenge.

“It was clear to Áine that this physical pain was reflecting the woman’s feelings about a situation in her life…”

After training in this work, Áine started seeing the results she’d dreamed of in her clients and knew she was on the right path. “I’ve never felt so fulfilled in what I do,” she told us.

She gave us the example of one client who had done a lot of inner work but was suffering from lower back pain. It was clear to Áine that this physical pain was reflecting the woman’s feelings about a situation in her life, and because this client was so in tune with her body, she was able to release the pain in one session.

As a Medical Intuitive, Áine is adept at pinpointing blockages in a client’s metaphysical field and selecting the right healing tool, such as visualisation or inner child work, to help them release it. She also gives them integration steps to use after the session to anchor in the positive shift.

“I love the fact that this work is about empowering other people. It’s not about me fixing somebody; it’s about showing them how they hold the key to helping themselves.”

Acknowledging that different things work for different people, she encourages everyone to be open to the world of complementary therapy, as we often feel drawn to the tools that will serve us best. ainehughes.ie

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Creating A Vision For Healing In Circle Culture

“How we blossom is up to us and our maverick ability to know and heal ourselves.”

EMBRACE YOUR CYCLICAL STRENGTH.

by Caroline Kane

The process of healing is infinite, and it has no beginning or end. That said, most of us have experienced a watershed event or series of events which put us on a path of conscious and deep healing.

For me, that was 15 years ago when I sat traumatised in the ashes of the life I had lived to that point. Looking back, it was a significant time of transition and change.

Given the difficulties of that period, I sought assistance from those best placed to support my young daughters and I. Very soon, a group of individuals had gathered around our little family. In private and humbling reflections, I saw a clear image of a stone circle set in the ground. It was a circle of support where I sat and watched those people gather. Everyone brought something different for me to work with so that I might create a better future for us.

Where I saw failure and hopelessness, they saw immense potential for growth.

Instead of telling me what I ‘should’ do (I did ask!), they challenged me past my limited thinking to create solutions. Their support, encouragement and good boundaries created the safety and space I needed to unearth my best and trust myself. Through the years, the image of my stone circle has presented itself at various points. In my mind’s eye, I wander down the path to my stone circle and look

around at those I call upon to support my living and healing.

Recently, I have had many conversations about the changes that are underway in our society as top-down structures make way for a community-based, equal society. In one conversation (in a healing circle), this was referred to as ‘Circle Culture.’ This was the way of the ancestors on this land of Eriú and in other cultures such as Hawaii and Japan. Every facet of their existence was cyclical in nature, and they understood the oneness of all life on Earth, the turning of the tides, the movement of seasons, the sun, moon and planets. This was reflected in their spiritual beliefs and practices. In their shared cosmology, this interconnectedness gave a sense of belonging and co-creation with All that is. Nothing and nobody was separate, and nobody got left behind.

Regardless of the words we use or the land of our birth, ‘Circle Culture’ is infused in our psyche, as my personal visions reminded me. We want to be closer to the earth by growing or sourcing foods that are locally grown, organic, fresh and seasonal. Women return to a deeper experience of their moon cycles and more natural ways of birthing their babies. In personal healing work, we circle back to ourselves to unearth Truth and

understand the dynamics of our inner world in relation to our external circumstances.

At this time of transition, we can create the vision of a way of being that is harmonious with nature’s cycles and rhythms. We each have an important role to play in that.

These times, conversations, life experiences, my personal healing and parenting prompt me to reflect on how I work with my clients. The teachings, books and guidance from others bring us so far.

They nourish our roots. These times ask more of us. How we blossom is up to us and our maverick ability to know and heal ourselves.

Pushing past all fear, we embody our unique soul expression and share it with the world.

When we do, we can better hold a respectful and safe space for others to do the same.

Caroline Kane is a Holistic Practitioner based in Meath who takes an interdisciplinary and psycho-spiritual approach to her healing work.

She shares the healing power of touch through Holistic Massage Therapy, Hawaiian Lomi Lomi and Shamanic Bodywork.

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Yoga Nidra 101 PERMISSION TO REST.

by Alison McEvoy

Yoga Nidra is, in essence, a deep-relaxation.

It is an experience of guided rest for body, mind and emotions.

Yoga Nidra can come with you anywhere. Listening to the voice of a practitioner, on your couch, in a studio or in bed, you will be guided to slow down your movements, thoughts and emotions.

It is a gift of rest, stillness and of space to the entire being.

Permission to Rest My life, in the shadow of my mother, was as busy a life as it gets. A works-full-time, bikes everywhere, can’t-bear-to-wastetime-at-a-bus-stop (or a red light, truth be told), mother. I never saw her rest or relax. I never saw her stop and just be.

I loyally adopted the habit of being in constant motion, in constant service to a house and the work to be done. It became my safety net and my connection to my mother’s approval. ‘Doing’ became my compass as to whether I was OK in the world – was I busy, doing, achieving, progressing? If yes, all was well.

So many of us continue to live in this way, without example or permission to rest, relax and restore.

Yoga Nidra is a way out of this hypermasculine, always-on, continuous-striving habit of being. It is a tender, compassionate pathway to balance and restoration. It is

46 “Yoga Nidra is... an experience of guided rest for body, mind and emotions.”

Rest Medicine, an antidote to compulsive rushing, busyness and disassociation from the body’s needs.

Take the First Step As with any endeavour, the first step is the most significant. With Yoga Nidra, the first step is a choice to lie down and step away from the effort of living. It can be hard to step away from the to-do list, the constant problem solving and worrying. It takes courage and trust for many of us to leave the fray behind, symbolised by the act of lying down. When you lie down you are taking your eyes away from the bustling world that extends itself horizontally around you.

Awaken on the Inside I had asthma as a child. My parents went to all the doctors. Eventually, as a last resort, my father brought me to a local convent where a nun gave me weekly hands-on healing and praying. My mother, for her part, brought me to a Reiki healer who used pendulums. For the first time, since infancy, I was lying down with intention during the daytime. For a whole hour or more.

The aliveness inside was immense. I wasn’t ‘doing nothing’, as was the habitual thought about lying down. I noticed my thoughts for the first time. I noticed my

breathing, the blood in my veins, the inner, involuntary, life-sustaining modes of my body and the emotions twitching under my skin. I was learning about me, my body, my life force. All by keeping my awareness awake as I lay down and closed my eyes.

Rewiring for Rest It can be hard to groove a lasting pathway of rest and relaxation into your life. It is no easy feat to go against the tidal wave of performance and perfection wired into our brains, hijacking our nervous system.

This said, every time you choose to rest remember to thank yourself.

It is immensely worth it to bring nourishing feminine practices into your life, restoring balance, inner power and connection to Self. A relaxation routine is as important as an exercise routine and, once established, becomes a steady stream of replenishment for you; energising your life, mind and heart with creative life-force.

Self-Compassion Inquiry What habits, thoughts or resistance prevent you from fully dropping in and receiving the gift of rest? (Tracee Stanley)

restorativehealingarts@gmail.com

Beyond The Illusion REAWAKEN YOUR DIVINE BEINGNESS.

Interviewer: Paul Congdon Interviewees: Gareth Duignam and Eva Müller It was a pleasure to have Gareth Duignam and Eva Müller join us in person for a fascinating conversation on 16th November at The Vico in Dalkey. At this event, they spoke about Darshan, a spiritual transmission through the eyes they started giving just a few months prior, before inviting people in the audience to experience it for themselves.

They were holding a retreat in Portugal, Eva explained, when the message first came through that they could give Darshan. She remembers that these energies spontaneously entered and opened channels in both of them through the tops of their heads, eyes, hands and feet, allowing them to give Darshan from then on.

When Paul asked them how they got to this point, Eva recalled the beginning of her spiritual journey, which she embarked on only four and a half years ago.

Feeling unhappy in her life, she sought fulfilment, which led her to read a book about meditation. After realising that fulfilment can be found within, she joined Gareth’s meditation group and has worked with him ever since.

Similarly, Gareth started meditating after realising he couldn’t find lasting happiness in the outside world. He also had a big fear of dying, which he conquered by exploring consciousness through out-of-body experiences and discovering there is no death.

Since then, the pair have made

leaps in spiritual consciousness and now reside in Para Brahman, the final level of consciousness.

According to Eva, the first level is self-realisation, where you realise you are not your thoughts, body and emotions, but the observer of them.

The next, God consciousness, is when you see God in everything around you, which then turns into unity consciousness, where you become one with everything.

Brahman consciousness, the fourth, is essentially becoming the Brahman. In this state, you exist “beyond creation” in nothingness. Finally, you return to engage in creation through Para Brahman consciousness.

You can still participate in ordinary human life from this state of consciousness, Gareth explained, but it feels as if your awareness is in two places at once. The part of you that is engaging with the physical dimension recognises that “everything that you’re witnessing is a projection on a screen of consciousness, on that screen of Brahman.”

From this level of awareness, Gareth and Eva can act as divine channels here on earth to assist in the collective awakening.

Though in terms of consciousness levels, Brahman is the endpoint, there are still new energies coming in all the time.

At this point in their journey, they simply view their personalities as a template through which these energies and

“From this level of awareness, Gareth and Eva can act as divine channels here on earth to assist in the collective awakening.”

the Brahman state of consciousness can flow.

They both do spiritual transmissions with healing qualities, but as Gareth acknowledged, the human system still affects consciousness.

So, if a person has trauma in their system, they won’t be able to awaken to higher levels of consciousness, which is why Eva helps people to clear their trauma.

“When I have my eyes closed, I can tune into somebody else’s energy field, and I get messages,” she shared.

Every spiritual guide will have a unique method; however, Eva clarified that “it’s the same energy coming through but through a different form and then it has a different flavour and a different way of working.”

The simple advice of following your joy still stands, as this will lead us to the right teachers, concepts and opportunities to assist in our spiritual awakening. We may be on vastly different paths in this lifetime, but we are all ultimately on our way to remembering the spark of God, the divine beingness, within us.

truespiritualawakening.eu

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Conscious Connections A DEEPER FORM OF DATING. Interviewer: Paul Congdon Interviewee: Sinéad Téhéry Cronin If you’re single and on a personal development journey, you might have wondered, where on earth can I find someone on a similar wavelength, given the current dating trends? Luckily, Sinéad Téhéry Cronin, a facilitator at Conscious Singles Ireland, is ushering in a “new era of healthy relating and dating” with her unique singles events.

These “gentle” gatherings, led by Sinéad and her incredible team nationwide, are designed for single people on a personal development path.

She told us, “When we turn up for these events, you’re automatically in a room full of people who are doing the work,” giving you a natural point of connection.

With the help of guided exercises, conversations and games, the 30-40 participants at each event have plenty of opportunities to connect on a deep level.

That being said, all activities are optional, so people can focus on their needs and inner work around relationships, which will look different for everyone.

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… the key to a healthy relationship is selfreflection rather than just relating to your partner on autopilot.

Acknowledging that examples of healthy relationships are few and far between in today’s world, Sinéad shared her bigger vision for Conscious Singles Ireland.

“We’re trying to connect people and bring more love into the world, but we’re also trying to encourage healthy ways to relate, and that begins with our relationships to ourselves.”

Sinéad believes the key to a healthy relationship is self-reflection rather than just relating to your partner on autopilot.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that

a conscious relationship will be free from conflict, but the difference is that both partners can self-reflect rather than just blaming each other or external circumstances.

As more of us cultivate this level of consciousness in our personal relationships, we will undoubtedly contribute to the positive change Sinéad envisions for the world. consciousconnectionsevents.com

Carlow Holistic Centre NOURISH YOUR MIND, BODY & SPIRIT.

by Elaine Woods

“I look forward to the journey ahead as Carlow Holistic Centre begins its new era of light, love and growth.”

In May 2022 a beautiful soul transitioned suddenly, leaving a legacy of love and healing with many people in Carlow and beyond. She was my Reiki teacher, mentor and adviser over the years and I had the overwhelming feeling that I did not want to see the physical space she had created disappear; I was fully aware that the beautiful energy she left with many would remain.

And so, I became custodian of Rainbow Healing. I didn’t delude myself into thinking that I could, in any way, fill the shoes of this beautiful soul but I hoped that somehow I could transform, with grace, the space she created and perhaps even grow this legacy of healing and love. It has been an up and down journey so far.

Then suddenly a couple of months ago, having broken out of the cocoon, but not quite yet the butterfly, it all began to fall into place – a transformation of both energy and physical presence.

Rainbow Healing is transforming into Carlow Holistic Centre and is now both a shop and treatment room, with space for workshops and events also. So now as we move into 2024, we honour the past, celebrate this transformation and embrace the future.

Transformation is a journey of discovery and I look forward to the journey ahead as Carlow Holistic Centre begins its new era of light, love and growth.

Facebook/ Instagram: @rainbowhealingcarlow

In-person singles events for those on a personal development path Join us for a day of self-discovery, exploring how we connect and relate to ourselves and others

Events around the country including Dublin, Galway, Cork, Tipperary & Belfast On The Day: Games & Icebreakers Workshops Shared Lunch 5 Senses Experience

Inquiries 089 211 3053

Bookings & Full Event Info On Our Website

www.consciousconnectionsevents.com @conscious_singles_ireland

POSITIVE ADVERTORIAL

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“Ginkgo Biloba... has a long history of being used to improve blood circulation and cognitive functioning.”

your blood your health GET READY TO CIRCULATE.

by Caroline Kane

Those of us with poor blood circulation get a stark reminder come wintertime.

Cold hands and feet, chilblains and muscle weakness to name a few.

If the blood is not circulating, not reaching our extremities for example, then those areas of the body which remain out of reach are not receiving the precious oxygen and nutrients which it is the bloods’ job to deliver.

This is especially true for the head.

Your brain alone accounts for 20% of the body’s entire oxygen consumption. Because oxygen (and nutrients) is carried to the brain with the blood, a good blood flow to the head is vital for fueling your cognitive functions.

Ginkgo to get you going Ginkgo Biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, has a long history of being used to improve blood circulation and cognitive functioning such as memory.

Ginkgo is a truly ancient plant species, the sole survivor of a group of tree species that date back to over 66 million years ago.

It has been used as medicine going back thousands of years, particularly in China.

Why choose Pharmanord?

Pharma Nord Ginkgo Biloba contains

unique, active compounds that support your blood flow by helping the blood pass through the cardiovascular network. It goes without saying that the more blood that reaches all the different tissues, the better.

There are many preparations out there with ginkgo biloba, and while they may seem fairly similar, there are huge differences. The scientific journal Phytomedicine published a study, where Canadian researchers looked at 29 different ginkgo biloba preparations and found – much to their surprise – that only 10% of the investigated products contained the biologically active compounds that are found in the leaves from the ginkgo biloba tree. The remaining 90% of the product had nothing to do with ginkgo biloba.

Pharma Nord Ginkgo Biloba is manufactured using very high quality and safety inspection procedures. Pharma Nord has chosen to do it this way, as this is the only way they can guarantee a product that is safe, has superior quality, and works the way it is expected to.

Pharma Nord Ginkgo Biloba turned out to have the best effect. The interesting thing about this study is that many of the products against which Pharma Nord Ginkgo Biloba competed contained much more ginkgo biloba extract. Still, Pharma Nord Ginkgo Biloba had a significantly better effect. In fact, the product worked 50 times better than the product with the least effect.

DIY circulation tips • Exercise regularly. It strengthens your heart and helps it pump blood to all parts of the body • Avoid smoking, as it damages your heart and cardiovascular system • Try to eat a healthy and balanced diet with plenty of healthy fats and all the vitamins and minerals that are good for cardiovascular health • Try the best you can to avoid stress, which is known to have a negative impact on both heart health and circulation

Test-winning product In a study, where British researchers compared Pharma Nord Ginkgo Biloba with 17 other ginkgo biloba supplements,

pharmanord.ie

Ancestral Healing ENTERING THE FIELD OF FAMILY CONSTELLATIONS.

by Alison McEvoy in conversation with Abi Beri Invited by this season of inward reflection and ancestors, I went for a family constellation with Abi Beri. I had done family constellations in workshop settings before, out of curiosity mostly. This time, I had felt a deeper calling. The one-on-one setting allowed for a deep precision with which Abi identified the central issues at play.

Entering the Field As soon as I entered the room, I felt a shift.

Abi later described this as entering “a field that is bigger than us and talks to us.” Abi acts as a “channel” for all that exists for us in this sacred space.

Upon entering the field, you expand into a wider space of existence. All that is hidden from plain sight can be felt, heard or seen, in the field. The patterns, the ancestral storylines, the soul contracts, loyalties and entanglements which belong to our soul family, are present in this field.

Bring Openness “We keep our intentions away from the field,” says Abi. All that is required is “an open mind”.

Put simply, we are channels too. We are channels for the beautiful gifts that run through our family lines; a beautiful singing

“If any one person does the work, the flow of love is restored for every single person in that line”

voice, a talent for herbal healing, artistry...the list is endless. We are also channels for the dark gifts; the trauma, the distorted habits generated in place of healing, the imbalances of power and so on...and on...that come down through our ancestral line. We take these on “out of love for the family soul.” We hold, carry and sustain both the light and the dark for our family soul, as they are our source of love and belonging on a soul level.

One day, however, the ancestors call out to the soul, ready and able to transmute anything that is blocking love within our line.

“It’s like the ancestors are waiting for somebody to step up and do this... acknowledge, heal, unearth the experiences and traumas. Ultimately it frees the ancestors too. This is sacred work that brings loyalties, patterns, etc. to the surface and opens up the pathways for them to be released. If any one person does the work, the flow of love is restored for every single person in that line...

You do this work for your ancestors and the generations to come.”

Emerging from the Field Whatever movement is required, whether putting down burdens, handing back responsibilities, honouring loyalties, releasing beliefs...the permutations of

healing to be acted upon in the field will be unique to each person’s soul family. Once this is done, however long it may take, when we emerge from the field we find ourselves more open to the potential and possibility of this life, at this time.

“Carrying something for others limits us, pulls us back, limits our life force energy.

As you free yourself you can start feeling more free, safe, with a right to belong, with the confidence to be and be seen as who you really are...These changes are soul level, long lasting changes that transform you.”

Is the Field Calling You? “If consciously you can’t make sense of what is happening in your life, if what you’ve been doing isn’t working anymore, it’s time to explore something else,” says Abi. For me, I started feeling a presence in my life of the women who had gone before me. I started thinking more and more about them, almost talking to them in my mind about my life and theirs. That was my call.

Are you being called…?

blissfulevolution.com

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Boost Your Health THE POWER OF VITAMIN C. Interviewer: Paul Congdon Interviewee: Dr T E Gabriel Stewart When we sat down to talk with Dr T E Gabriel Stewart, he shared his impressive journey and wealth of knowledge regarding Intravenous Therapies.

Having qualified as a medical doctor in University College Galway, he first came across Intravenous Therapies while working as a physician in Canada.

Patients were coming to him with questions about chelation, heavy metal detoxification and High Dose Intravenous Vitamin C, so he visited some of the clinics that were providing these services. He attended ACAM (The American College For Advancement in Medicine) in Los Angeles and became an accredited member. He is also on the editorial board of ISOM. After witnessing the positive effects on people, Dr Stewart became licensed in Canada to provide these treatments and began administering them around 1998.

He returned from Canada to Ireland in November 2000 and opened his clinic about six months later, despite Intravenous Therapies being frowned upon.

Since then, he has observed good results with his clients, who come to the clinic in Co. Laois from all over the country.

“I do find that people benefit greatly from the intravenous treatments, and you will see an improvement in a lot of cases in their quality of life irrespective of what their underlying conditions may be.”

52 52

There is a great deal of medical research to support the use of High Dose Intravenous Vitamin C Therapy, with over 75,000 studies and papers now on PubMed alone. It is one of the best antiviral agents available, with the ability to neutralise and eliminate a wide range of toxins.

Vitamin C will enhance host resistance, greatly augmenting the immune system’s ability to neutralise bacterial and fungal infections and significantly helping to improve Quality of Life. It is commonly used around the world as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of chronic degenerative diseases.

Even if you don’t have any health issues but are just looking to boost your energy, you may benefit from an intravenous treatment.

In that case, Dr Stewart might administer the Myers Cocktail IV (a lower dose form of vitamin C), which contains vitamins and nutrients that help boost the immune system and combat fatigue.

He also offers a Glutathione IV, which, as with all intravenous treatments, tends to increase the energy levels of individuals who are fatigued for any reason.

“Glutathione is the most abundant antioxidant there is in the body,” he explained, making this intravenous treatment a very good detoxicant with the potential to aid the overall health of

patients and those with fatty liver disease.

In our modern industrialised world, even if we feel healthy, we all have toxic heavy metals inside our bodies, which have no physiological benefits. The problem is that toxic heavy metals become oxidised to form free radicals that damage cells and are believed to be a factor in all of the chronic degenerative diseases.

While a good diet, exercise and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent the oxidation of these toxic metals, you will need Intravenous EDTA or another oral chelation method to remove them.

At Dr Stewarts Clinic, patients can avail of Intravenous EDTA Chelation, a 3-hour painless treatment, to achieve this.

Whatever treatment is recommended, Dr Stewart said they seem to enjoy it, thanks to the relaxing environment at the clinic. You can work on your laptop, watch TV, or chat with others during treatment, making for a relaxed, comfortable experience.

While Dr Stewart believes that Intravenous Therapies can be very effective for improving quality of life and maintaining optimal health, he acknowledges that the more debilitated you are, the more likely you are to feel the benefits.

As always, prevention is better than cure, and for those wishing to live a long, healthy life, he says, exercise is probably the number one thing you can do together with good nutrition.

While the goal should be to maintain our health ourselves, it is reassuring to know that there are ways to receive an effective boost to our system should we need it. drstewartsclinic.com

“Even if you don’t have any health issues but are just looking to boost your energy, you may benefit from an intravenous treatment.”

SHORT AND SWEE T

West Cork Dreaming A TRIP TO GOLEEN HARBOUR.

by Paul Congdon Goleen, Goleen, Goleen… I think you get the song pun by now.

In the west of Cork a couple of chaps had a vision to carbon neutral this little spot by the sea.

It’s gem of a place. After a schedule of big events and magazine stuff, I took a break to head down and cool the jets.

I arrived in the dark of night and found my eco cabin in the middle of a field, thoroughly away from it all.

The cabin is so cosy, modern and cool and has all you could need, with such a sweet view of the night sky - the moon on the water that first night was special. On waking, I saw it as if it was firstborn, the day appearing anew with all its sights and sounds as the truly unique blend of West Cork spilled through my windows. Marc and Matt are the main men, and they give you all you need while giving you the space to find out for yourself at the same time.

I set off and explored the local towns of Ballydehob and Schull where you

find top-notch food to equal anywhere check out Budds and the cool spot called Nottage’s that I loved. It’s the atmosphere around here that seeps into you, and Goleen has hot tubs to bask in under the stars at night and a lovely walk around its nooks and crannies.

“It’s the atmosphere around here that seeps into you…”

There are plans afoot for an events space which was almost ready when I was there, and should be well up and running by the spring. Marc also mentioned goodie boxes of veg which will soon be available for guests to buy. I had great sleeps each night and felt well rested; there’s also a little swimming spot near the cabins for those who like the cold shock of the water to wake up to. There is a vision unfolding here - sustainability courses, grow your

own, community spirit, and as a local said, it brings much needed state-of-the-art accommodation that the area really needs.

If you are feeling the need to hit the road and explore West Cork this is a great place to do it. Or if you plan to run a yoga retreat, workshop or talk, this would be quite the quirky event space. I got to check out loads of places in the area, swim spots and lovely views, walks and hikes and I went to Levis bar on my last night which was like being in someone’s living room, while having a smashing pint. A local musician, Polly Barret, played there that night and she’s the real deal - check out her new album, it suits the coastline whilst driving around this magical place.

I would go back in a heartbeat and I can see Goleen Harbour becoming a real hub in West Cork... go check it out and have your own jets suitably cooled. goleenharbour.ie

54 Genuine Power LET BODY WISDOM BE YOUR GUIDE.

by Enrique Borreda

In life, and in philosophy, true power blossoms when you love what you do; when passion aligns with values, intuition and creativity. The more time we spend doing in these spaces, the more we are true to who we are. In true power, you are easily focused. You are motivated and disciplined. You have a vision and you create your own future.

In Spinology, we say that the source for life, and all we can achieve while being alive, is the inherent wisdom of the body; the somatic instinct of living beings that maintains the harmony of operation of the organism.

For example, when a tree grows, the trunk grows first, then the branches come out and then the fruit can grow. That is how the body is. Our bodies cannot form organs without nerve supply being there.

First comes the source of power, energy, life and regulation; the brain and spinal cord must form. Then, the body parts – kidneys, spleen, stomach, heart, etc. – can grow, thanks to an adequate supply of energy.

This characteristic of functionality is crucial because it means, in essence, thanks to the body’s innate wisdom, it

knows in every moment what is best for its ideal functioning. Innate body wisdom will always act according to the organism´s best interest. The body is, in fact, the best doctor or therapist, with the great advantage over them all that it is “always right”.

Spinologists´ vision is to help everyone who seeks out our services to express the best of this innate true power.

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Join us on this life-changing journey and learn how to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Now enrolling, starts April 2024 Tel 01 637 3934 Email: info@irishmindfulnessacademy.ie 26 Upper Pembroke Street Dublin 2, D02 X361

POSITIVE PERSONALITY

don’t die

with the music inside THE TRUE MEANING OF ACHIEVEMENT.

by Jane Stephenson

56 I first heard this mantra from Wayne Dyer, one of my favourite teachers, who passed away in 2015. It has always struck me as a hard one to follow; after all, what IS the music? Is it a book I haven’t written, or have I already put the music out there? It is a message to remind us all to endeavour to reach our full potential and that, as Deepak Chopra says in the Law of Dharma, we have a duty to share our talents with the world?

I am now seventy years old, and though I am not in imminent danger of dying (apart from a life well lived), I am aware of the march of time. I try to remind myself that I HAVE done a lot, and the ‘Music’ doesn’t have to be a major attention-getting achievement, but can be simply a feeling of fulfilment for creating something worthwhile.

When we face up to challenges in our lives and overcome them, there can be a great sense of achievement. I have had many challenges; one of the hardest was returning to live in Ireland and starting again as a divorced mother with two small children. It was not easy being divorced in Ireland in 1995, and I found myself isolated. I see this now as a learning and growth opportunity. I took comfort in reading and researching personal

development books like Feel The Fear and Do It Anyway (Susan Jeffers), Your Erroneous Zones (Wayne Dyer), Zen and The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance (Robert Pirsig), The Cinderella Complex (Colette Dowling) and of course Seven Spiritual Laws of Success by the wonderful Deepak Chopra. I noticed that this industry was growing rapidly as the self-help sections in bookshops expanded every month.

I created Seminars.ie in 1998, by contacting publishers and inviting authors to come and give talks in Ireland, and they did! I soon had a busy event business and met some wonderful people. My first ‘big’ name was Deepak Chopra, then Marianne Williamson, Bruce Lipton and many others. Probably the largest crowds were at Eckhart Tolle’s talks, where his book The Power of Now was becoming a household name. Eckhart now does huge events for thousands of people, and I recently attended his talk at the Albert Hall in London. It is always worth listening to these teachers in person; the audience was transfixed, and the atmosphere was life-affirming and loving.

I am now working with Paul of Positive Life in partnering events, including two events with Bruce Lipton

next year. Paul has built a wonderful business with his Positive Nights events and Positive Life magazine.

I will be giving my Best Guru Messages seminar over Zoom in January, based on what I have learnt from my speakers, so please join me for that. In the meantime, I will stop berating myself for not writing that book. It might happen naturally, but I won’t ‘Die With The Music Inside’! seminars.ie

“I try to remind myself that I HAVE done a lot, and the ‘Music’ doesn’t have to be a major attentiongetting achievement…”

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POSITI V E HE A LING

58

emmett technique THE MAGIC TOUCH.

Interviewer: Persephone Kianka Interviewee: Tríona Stafford

It was a delight to speak with Tríona Stafford, an EMMETT Technique practitioner and instructor whose passion for this work was tangible from the moment we sat down. She began with her remarkable story of discovering this physical therapy.

When Tríona was in her late 30s, she was a working part-time mom and played basketball in her spare time. After seriously damaging her knee ligament while on a swing with her daughters, she was determined to find a solution other than surgery.

Her research led her to discover SCENAR Therapy, which she still incorporates in her work today. Using this technology, she treated her knee ligament and returned to basketball, but it still wasn’t quite right.

Then, one day, after complaining to a friend about her lack of balance on the court, she experienced the EMMETT Technique for the first time. Her friend, who had taken an EMMETT course, performed a move on her, and when she went to play basketball that night, she recalls, “I was on fire”.

She was amazed that after weeks of tripping over herself and missing the basket, one small move could bring about this transformation.

Naturally, Tríona took the course, started practising on friends and family and was a full-time therapist before she knew it.

“EMMETT Technique really changed my life in so many ways that I am now working full-time as a therapist, and I have no doubt there’s no way I’d be doing it without the EMMETT Technique,” she reflected.

“Upon arrival, she could not stand upright without the support of her walking sticks, and after the session, Tríona noticed that she had left them behind.”

If you’re wondering, unfortunately, Tríona had to give up basketball to protect her EMMETT fingers, but she knows it was well worth it.

“I can honestly say every day I am so excited to get to work,” she told us, her authenticity shining through.

In the early days of her practice, an older woman with poor balance came to her. Upon arrival, she could not stand upright without the support of her walking sticks, and after the session, Tríona noticed that she had left them behind.

After calling to her, “You forgot your walking sticks!” the woman, nearly in tears, responded, “I did, I can’t believe it!”

“To be able to have that impact in somebody’s life, it’s just very unique and very, very special,” she said. Admittedly, she still does “happy dances” after someone leaves the clinic much improved, which is a regular occurrence for Tríona.

So, what exactly is the EMMETT Technique? Tríona described it as “an application of very light finger pressure on specific points in the body. So it’s based on the belief that light touch can trigger

relaxation response in the soft tissue of the body.”

EMMETT practitioners don’t buy into the idea of “no pain, no gain” but instead focus on helping a person’s muscles relax, distinguishing it from other therapies. Many of Tríona’s clients have also reported emotional or spiritual benefits from this technique. One attributed EMMETT to feeling “righter” and more herself than she’s ever felt.

It is no wonder that physiotherapists, physical trainers, spiritual healers and even beauticians have trained with Tríona to incorporate the EMMETT Technique into their work.

“EMMETT fits anywhere,” she mused.

As a trailblazer in the wellness world, Tríona shared her vision for the future reach of EMMETT, even though it is not yet an evidence-based practice.

“I really believe this is the future for physical therapy for people who have issues with mobility, with pain, with restriction.”

She has seen this impact in her own life and the lives of countless clients and fellow practitioners, who will no doubt continue working with the EMMETT Technique until this vision becomes a reality.

trionastafford.ie emmett-uk.co.uk

Aine Hughes Medical Intuition Tel: 01 8306413 thehealinghouse.ie 24 O’Connell Avenue Berkeley Road D07XV57 Therapies Available Acupuncture, Amatsu, Arts Therapy, CBT for Insomnia, Chinese Medicine, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy CBT, Counselling, EMMETT Technique, Food Allergy Testing, Healthy Eating Advice, Massage, Mindfulness, Numerology and Tarot Readings and Individual Classes, Nutrition, Orthotics, Psychotherapy, Reflexology, Spiritual Healing, Sports Massage Therapy, Stress Control and Traditional Herbal Medicine

087 9188161 www.ainehughes.ie aine_medicalintuitive@yahoo.com ‘Aine’s work helped me release years of pain. Her gentle caring approach allows a depth to her sessions that will change your life’ Emma Turton - Medical Intuition School

Monroe Institute Workshops In Ireland Exploring Consciousness is a 2-day self-empowerment workshop for people to experience the joy of personal evolution as they engage in transformative higher consciousness explorations using sound technology.

Upcoming Workshop: December 9-10, 2023 at The Sanctuary, D07 H290 Follow us for more events and workshops in 2024

Visit: exploringconsciousness.ie Call 089 266 1399 Email: info@exploringconsciousness.ie Can Sucullu Monroe Institute Outreach Trainer

EMMETT Technique The Chameleon Approach to Body Therapy Are you ready to join 1000’s in the growing trend towards natural pain relief?

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The EMMETT Technique is a highly effective standalone therapy that can also be integrated with other modalities. Suitable for everyone from babies to the older person, gentle on their bodies and on the therapist.

For more information on the EMMETT Practitioner course or one day introductory workshops in Ireland and Northern Ireland please go to emmett-uk.co.uk or contact Instructor for EMMETT Technique Triona on 083 3024254 or trionastafford.ie

Intuitive reading of the metaphysical and physical body to find the root cause of illness and pain

POSITI V E DATING

deep 60 dating MEET YOUR OWN POTENTIAL, AND YOUR POTENTIAL PARTNER.

Normal speed dating is a chance to meet members of the opposite sex, who are also looking for a partner, in a short amount of time. But, what to talk about?

Deep Dating creates around 15 encounters in one evening during which you have the experience of an energetic meeting, which you then go on to talk about.

Each energetic meeting is different, so it never gets boring. The meeting focuses not on the mind and what you think, but on your awareness and what you experience.

For example, one meeting might be about breathing to connect on the level of spirit and the third eye, another about dancing to express your awareness of the uniqueness of the partner you are meeting. Another encounter might involve sitting back to back and trusting your partner to support you while you are supporting them, finding balance and equality. These kinds of experiences give plenty of material to share about.

Because you have experienced each other in the meeting, there is no value in hiding or pretending, but rather in honesty and self-awareness. Then you are free to consider how well your partner is able to

“The meeting focuses not on the mind and what you think, but on your awareness and what you experience.” talk about their experience and to listen to yours? And remember, it is fine to be shy; the challenge is to share openly about who and how you are.

These shared experiences are founded on tantra, the art of relationship based on energy and consciousness. The basis of tantra, rather than judging and criticising, is to look for the special quality in each person and in each meeting. It teaches appreciation and gratitude, by imagining each man as a unique incarnation of the god and each woman as a unique incarnation of the goddess. It opens the heart and creates an atmosphere where either you find your special person, or at the least have a series of enjoyable and heart-warming meetings.

It helps us to let go of prejudices and the judgments of our minds.

Deep Dating evenings were developed and are led by Katarina Hawken, founder of an exclusive matchmaking and selfdevelopment agency, Find L’Amour.

Katarina is an experienced, international matchmaker based in Prague who represented Europe in the American TV series Match Me Abroad. She has been bringing couples together for over ten years.

She works with her husband, John Hawken, founder of The Centre of Transformation and author of the book ‘Realizations: On the Paths of Transformation’, who has 45 years of experience teaching tantra and energy awareness all over Europe.

Deep Dating is coming to Dublin on 26th April 2024 at 7pm in The Mayson Hotel, 81/82 North Wall Quay (The Timberyard event space). Both Katarina and John are leading the event and this will be €50 well invested. VIP tickets for €80 are also available which include dinner at 6pm.

For booking contact katka@findlamour.com findlamour.com

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A New Way 2 Health through ONDAMED PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Frequencies) technology.

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Bringing about the proper conditions for the body to heal itself.

ONDAMED also complements other treatments, such as pharmaceuticals, homeopathic remedies, nutritional supplements.

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POS ITI V E A STR OLO GY

2024 begins with positive

astrological tailwinds 62 SET YOUR DREAMS IN MOTION.

by Rachelle Hicks

2024 is the first year of the past many that we get to begin with no significant retrogrades, eclipses or major planetary alignments. We haven’t experienced this since pre-2020.

You may have noticed over the past few years that the start of the calendar year has been a bit of a struggle or may have felt sluggish in some ways. This is because January has been accompanied by either a Mercury, Venus or Mars Retrograde, a few eclipses, a transformational collective transit, and often some of these in combination.

This has made the past many years’ New Year’s Resolutions feel a bit flat, futile and somewhat deflating. It’s like the break after the New Year’s holidays has been extra difficult to come back from.

But this year, we get to experience fresh, new energy.

When we don’t have any major planetary hurdles in our path, it means we get to start the year with a real sense of something renewed. It means that your New Year’s Plans can actually be put into action in January and February.

Retrogrades can bring delays and

“With this rare opportunity, you can plan to take action and put things in motion during January and February.” stagnation, while eclipses can bring sudden change, conflict and curve balls. So without these in the way, we have a better chance of bringing our dreams to form.

This is leading up to one of 2024’s major collective transits in April, the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction, which is about expansion, opportunity, innovation, and even a bit of rebellion.

We’ll explore this specifically in the Spring Issue, but just know that it’s a good time to expand your horizons and dream big. This can also be a creative time, so make some space in your winter schedule to dream big, innovate, explore art and find inspiration in your daily life.

Be aware that the final Mercury Retrograde of 2023 is from December 13th - January 1st, so you can use this time to unwind, retreat, reflect and get organised in preparation for the year to come.

With this rare opportunity, you can plan to take action and put things in motion during January and February.

You can imagine that it’s like having good tailwinds at your back, helping to offer support and momentum with whatever path you are carving.

The next collection of retrogrades, eclipses and major collective transits occur all together in April 2024, so you can use the time between January and March to get things moving.

Rachelle Hicks is a Dublin-based astrologer offering one-to-one chart readings and personal astrology forecasts online through Zoom. Learn more about her at

rachellehicks.com @rachellehicksastrology

Presents

POSITIVE NIGHTS

IN PERSON LIVE EVENTS IN DALKEY AND DUN LAOGHAIRE COMING NEXT YEAR 2024: BRUCE LIPTON

(co hosted with seminars.ie)

PAUL SELIG And many more

For Schedule and to join our Mailing List see:

positivelife.ie/positivenights

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