Green Revolution~Mar.-Apr. 09 by velocity magazine

It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009 | FREE

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Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

www.ReadVelocity.com •

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

Volume 18 March • April 2009 It’s A Green Revolution! ANIMALS

Pet Lovers Are Going Green

BY COLLEEN GORDON

A RTS

23 The Fragrant Flower 55 The Word: Suggested Reading 58 What’s Life Without Music? 59 The Movie Mystic: “Happy-Go-Lucky” BY MICHELLE HUMMEL

BY PURUSHA K. RADHA

BY STEVEN SIMON

38-39 A S T RO LO G Y 52 TA ROT 24-25 C A L E N DA R

BY RAVEN MOONDANCE

BY WANDA BARUCH

CO N S C I O U S CO M M U N I T Y

30-31

Think Local First

BY JULIE NORRIS, CONTRIBUTING COMMUNITY EDITOR

“Awaken Your Own Inner Healer” Event FA M I LY

36 A Child Psychologist’s Serendipitous Experience Helps Her Relate to Children with Special Health Needs FOOD

16 Raw Food Lesson

with Mama J

Mind Your Peas and Cucumbers

BY KIMBERLY LANHAM

GREEN

12 Why Go Green? 14 Make a Victory Garden! 17 Cosmetics Wrap Up 19 Find Your Voice and Use It 35 The Green Revolution Comes Around 53 Viva la Green Revolution! BY DIANE J. ACKERMAN

BY DAWN GATES, MASTER HERBALIST

BY EMILY RUFF, CONTRIBUTING GREEN EDITOR

BY JOANNE M. KELLER, ARNP

BY Albert J. Nuñez, DVM, CVA, CONTRIBUTING SPIRITUAL LIFE EDITOR

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Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

Treating All Life As Sacred

BY REV. DR. CAY THOMPSON

HEALTH AND HEAL I N G

Petals of Transformation

Purusha K. Radha BY SHINAH B’NAI

PUBLISHER-EDITOR

Free At Last! How Holistic People Can Quit Smoking BY DAVID BOTSFORD

From Greed to Green

Emily Ruff

21 Leaf Talk 44

Ramah Wagner, D.C.

BY PURUSHA K. RADHA, PUBLISHER-EDITOR

The Green Revolution Is About Remembering

When Souls Touch, Magic Happens BY ROSS HESTER, PA, CH

BY CHRISTINE SOKOLOWSKI

BY SUSAN MAIR

BY AMY LEIGH

The Lotus Consciousness: Stepping Out of the Drama of Life BY DAVID WOLF, PH.D.

The Grass Is Greener Within

The Cause Clause

BY JOANNA HACKLEY DAVIS

BY RAMAH WAGNER, DC, CONTRIBUTING HEALTH EDITOR

Reclaiming Our Role in the Garden

BY KATHY FORD

REL ATIONSHIPS

Big Love: Secrets from Arielle Ford and Brian Hilliard SEXUALITY

BY STACEY MURPHY

SPIRITUALITY

Peace In Chaos

BY VIL-AM BEN-AHIM, D.C.

Protecting Our Vibration with Christ Love Divine

Julie Norris CONTRIBUTING COMMUNITY EDITOR

BY RAHANSIA P. BEN-MEJURI

Tuning In With Margie Gray

54 The Presence of Equality and Everlasting Peace 60 Masters of the Universe

CONTRIBUTING SPIRITUAL LIFE EDITOR

Velocity Magazine is an independent Central Florida regional publication. Velocity is distributed in close to 500 locations in Orange, Seminole, Volusia, Lake, Sumter, Marion and Alachua Counties.

Advertising Inquiries 407-454-3443; 352-357-7122 ReadVelocity@comcast.net Subscriptions $24 Call with credit card 407-454-3443; 352-357-7122 To Subscribe Online visit www.ReadVelocity.com Or Mail to P. O. Box 132 Mount Dora, FL 32756-0132 We Welcome Your Feedback ReadVelocity@comcast.net P. O. Box 132, Mount Dora, FL 32756 The Velocity Vision

A Sex-Positive Revolution for the New Millennium

CONTRIBUTING HEALTH EDITOR

Albert J. Nuñez, DVM, CVA

BY PEGGY ENGLISH

Riding the Dragonfly

Part of the Pod

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING GREEN EDITOR

INSPIR ATIONAL

Nancy Butler-Ross

BY TAMARA OVERLEE

To serve as a catalyst in raising the velocity of mass consciousness as we strive to create a new world that embraces lasting peace, sharing and cooperation. All material contained in this issue ©2009 PKR Communications- Velocity Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without express permission from the publisher. The views expressed in Velocity represent the opinions and beliefs of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of Velocity or its staff. Velocity is not responsible for the contents, products or services represented in any advertisement. Velocity Magazine is printed in a local Central Florida facility that recycles all waste including paper and aluminum plates.

BY REV. DONNA WEINHEIMER

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

from the editor

Purusha K. Radha

his issue’s theme, ‘It’s a Green Revolution,’ is a loaded phrase. Aside from the obvious trend toward conscious respect of our environment, ‘green’ has meaning on so many levels.

We find ourselves in the throes of a shift in consciousness all the way around. It is obvious that our national and global monetary systems are begging for change. Greed has served as the engine for our global economy for so long that now, when faced with the urgency of making new kinds of vital decisions for our very survival, reality for many is turned upside down. To find the cause for any problems we are enduring in the social, political, economic or religious arenas of our world today, all we have to do is follow the money trail. Greed and competition for the biggest slice of the pie are the principal factors for the world’s woes. They are caused by only one thing — fear of not having enough and that fear is imprinted on most of us since birth and even conception. Many believe that if we have enough money and possessions, our security is ensured. Paradoxically, if we truly have that belief, then we are most insecure of all. Insecurity breeds competition. Why else would we have a need to demonstrate that we’re the best at something? Why can’t we embrace everyone and at the level they perform as beautiful? Fear and all the emotions it stirs up comes from one place — the ego. Certainly not the heart.

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How interesting it is that the heart chakra energy center vibrates and spins green in color. The Green Revolution and the heart chakra are metaphors for each other! When we live in love, greed and competition are abhorrent to us. Instead, sharing and respect for all life are the tenets we live by. Love most often does not choose war, it does not choose violence or abuse, it does not choose destruction or disrespect. Love doesn’t just make do for now, but makes choices on behalf of all those who come after. Love is exceedingly wise and makes decisions for the good of the whole. Love would care for and respect the sanctity of all life. Love would find a way to make life abundant for everyone on the planet. The Green Revolution is the herald for our current revolution in consciousness which is founded on love, not fear.

n enormous change has occurred in our political system, again where we are undergoing a revolution of sorts. A majority of the populace has demanded a shift toward idealism and of that populace our youth count for a significant number. Many of these youth are the so-called indigo children who have just come of age to vote. (I personally know several who so passionately voted in this election.) They worked hard to ignite this revolution and never let up on adults who did not hear them at first. When these young adults speak, we need to not only listen, but find ways to work with them for they have been prepared for this revolutionary timing! Though this timing can be painful as we let go of old ways, the potential for a spectacular outcome because of heart-centered, respectful and selfless living now is enormous. The Green Revolution is ushering us in to a new way of living and caring for each other, a way that even those who think they’d rather stick with the known and familiar greed and competition model, will some day admit they love. Indigo children are souls incarnate of a highly evolved nature and whose mission it is to escort the planet into its Golden Age; they began incarnating in the late 1980s.

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

contributing editors

Green Earth Green Bodies Our earth is our responsibility and the well-being of our earth depends upon our actions. What are we doing on a daily basis to keep our world green? Just by doing small, simple everyday actions, we can save our world. Let’s choose to do our part in keeping it beautiful.

While we’re protecting the health of our earth we also need to be protecting the health of ourselves and our family. What good will it do if our earth is green but our bodies are not?

1 Contributing Community Editor Julie Norris is manager and co-proprietor of Dandelion Communitea Café, founding board director of the Progressive Local Alliance for Community Enrichment (PLACE) and serves on the boards of Slow Food and Mills Fifty Mainstreet. She’s an avid supporter of the local art, music and food culture, and showcases the diverse people and happenings in ‘Ourlando’ on her weekly radio program, Front Porch Radio. Her passion for community, delicious fair food, the environment and culture are the driving forces behind all her endeavors. More on her ventures at www.dandelioncommunitea.com, www.frontporchradio.wordpress.com and www.ourlando.com.

What are we doing on a daily basis to protect our individual health? Does our lifestyle control our body? If it does, eventually our bodies will come to control our lifestyle. Our health is our personal responsibility just like our earth is our responsibility. We can choose to take care of both today so we have a quality life tomorrow or we can choose not to. It’s our choice. Isn’t it smart to choose wisely by doing things that make us and our world beautiful?

2 Contributing Green Editor Emily Ruff, herbalist, is director of the Florida School of Holistic Studies, a 501c3 nonprofit educational institution committed to creating sustainable communities by empowering individuals to reclaim their radiant well-being through reconnecting with the natural world. Emily has studied herbalism on three continents over the past decade and consults individuals on holistic nutrition, herbalism, aromatherapy and flower essences. She is also owner of the sustainable lifestyle store, Evolve, located just a few doors down from the school in Thornton Park. Contact Emily at FSHL: 407-595-3731. Visit www.HolisticLivingSchool.org.

I choose wisely by having a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, an absolute critical component in my quest for better health. Fruits and vegetables contain thousands of antioxidants and other phytonutrients that work together to help prevent disease and give us optimal heath. I consciously choose whole food-based supplementation to get the recommended variety and amount of fruits and vegetables my body so desperately needs every day and which is next to impossible to consume merely by eating. For the best supplementation I have found, I choose Juice Plus+ to bridge the gap between what I should eat and what I do eat. The health results I’ve enjoyed are the best I’ve realized in a very long time. Today is tomorrow! What are we waiting for? Let’s keep learning how to take care of ourselves and our planet!

3 Contributing Health Editor Ramah Wagner, D.C. is a third generation chiropractor with degrees from the University of Iowa and of South Dakota. She received her graduate degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic (the founding college of chiropractic). Watch for Dr. Ramah Wagner’s new book, “The Health of Business - How to Balance Your Life for Greater Return.” Dr. Ramah is available for speaking events and intensives. Visit www.DoctorRamah.com or call 352-589-5443. www.HealthOfBusiness.com. 4 Contributing Spiritual Life Editor Albert J. Nuñez, DVM, CVA has owned Animal Hospital of Baldwin Park and of Lake Mary since 1995 where he has practiced integrative veterinary medicine for dogs, cats and exotics. He is a graduate of St. Thomas and Ross Universities and the Chi Institute of Veterinary Medicine. Contact him at 407-897-8555 and visit his myspace: myspace.com/animalhospitaloflakemary

To learn more about Juice Plus+ call Debbie Mixon at 407-832-8746, or visit www.dmixonjuiceplus.com. To hear what doctors are saying about Juice Plus+ call 24 hour info. line at 1-800-942-1260. Debbie gives wellness talks for individuals and businesses in the Central Florida area.

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

e forget so quickly, don’t we? When we come to live on this planet we forget where we are from. We forget the truth about God, and we easily forget the thousand kindnesses another has extended to us in the face of one perceived wrong. I often wonder what else we have forgotten that is so obvious. I have recently been reminded of the countless souls pulsing and living around me, each with their own preferences and desires. Now I realize how obvious it has always been. Sincerely, how could I have forgotten this? Participating in the green revolution is not confined to installing a bidet (to save paper) and reusing a teacup, it includes extending kindness to the souls all around us — the elementals, trees, animals and people. We all need loving helping hands. Not long ago I was sharing my snack of three apples with a grateful flock of seagulls. After watching me smash the apple cores to make the pieces small enough for all to eat, one enterprising bird dropped a huge piece of hard bread right in front of me. I quickly got the idea and mashed it with my shoe. Immediately, the birds that had a moment ago patiently watched me, descended to my feet to enjoy the bounty. Answering a request from a seagull is a new experience for me, but I find this happening more and more as I learn to honor and communicate with these souls I’d forgotten were a part of my ‘green world.’ If you would like more of these experiences in your life, if you are interested in participating in the ebb and flow of life with the souls all around you, utilize this technique: Say or think ‘Dear soul, mind and body of this tree (or bird, water, moon), I love you. Please offer me a blessing of love as I offer this to you as well. Thank you, thank you, thank you, for participating in this life with me. I love you.’ As we revolutionize our awareness, we can watch how we interact with the world around us. We will naturally begin to make choices that resonate with this abundant planet, and we will find ourselves becoming a part of the beautiful music going on around us. To share the abundance of experiences nature is sharing with you, or any great new green ideas, please post a message on the discussion board at meetup.com/The-Orlando-Abraham-Hicks-MeetupGroup. Christine Sokolowski is a Reiki Master and teacher. Please see Christine’s ad for her book, “Reiki: From Beginning to Master” on page 37.

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My daughter and her husband happily juggle full time jobs and parent two young children, ages two and a half and six months. When Amber asked me to keep the girls while she and Blake slipped out of town for a long weekend, I was delighted to give them a break. It would be the first time I had kept both children since the birth of the baby so I was feeling jubilant at the thought of spending time together. The big day came and the family arrived with a tote bag of baby food, bottles, formula and snacks, a baby walker, two car seats, two strollers, two clothes baskets loaded with little dresses, diapers, wipes, “Wiggles” DVDs, beloved blankets, favorite books, toys and dolls. Following a briefing on care and feeding of my soon-to-be charges, mom and dad were off! It wasn’t long before the girls and I settled into a harmonious routine of feedings, naps, diapering, bathing, wiping runny noses, kissing boo-boos, endless play and cuddling. On the third morning exhausted and half asleep I fed the baby a bottle in the dark. Eventually the faint sound of sucking subsided and I felt her body relax into a deep slumber. The sky had grown pink with morning light. A thin veil of dry summer haze cast a soft glow over the mangroves across the river. I lay the baby in the crib as her big sister awoke. Climbing into my arms she pointed out the window. We watched the giant orange ball that we call sun slowly rise in the sky; then turning toward one another in silence, our eyes met, allowing our souls to touch if only for a moment in sheer wonder. My body shivered in the warm sunlight as the magical bliss faded into the new day.

Peggy A English is Founder and President of OrganicBug.com, displayed, right. Contact her at 386-428-7050 and peggy@organicbug.com.

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

Why Go Green?

by Diane J. Ackerman

s creatures of habit we often form our opinions and consequent actions based on what looks, tastes, sounds or feels good. We tend to turn a blind eye to what is best for us because it takes effort or because we may not receive the widespread notoriety or recognition we desire. We have allowed our lust for comfort to influence our good judgment. As a result, we are now paying the consequences. Our beaches are riddled with trash. Our seas are widely becoming dump sites for unwanted waste. Our forests and lakes are dwindling into retention ponds and sound barriers for shopping centers and industrial parks. Soon our children will only enjoy the wondrous sights of nature in history and geography books and on documentary programs on the Discover Channel. We cannot separate impact on the environment from impact on our families and communities.

Twenty eight years ago I moved to Lake County from metropolitan New York. From my home in New York, it took anywhere from one to two hours drive time to get to work. Industrial pollution and traffic jams were a way of life. When I came to Lake County I felt like Dorothy in the “Wizard of Oz.” I seemed to have been whisked off the face of the earth as I knew it and plopped into a very strange land. I complained about the lack of shopping yet in the same breath I was awed by the orange tree dotted rolling hills and the blue waters of abundant lakes. This is now a distant memory. Today, twenty eight years later, the orange trees are all but gone and the waterways are brown or green with algae. So, why should we go green and make more conscious living and environmental decisions? So our children and those who come after us may enjoy abundant fresh clear air, blue waters and green hillsides as so many of us have and have cherished as past memories. Diane is author of “The Gathering,” a book of poems addressing life’s addictions, co-dependencies and obsessions. Her workbook on anger management, “Shut the Duck Up,” has been used with great success at Anthony House, a homeless shelter in Zellwood, Florida. Diane specializes in anger management and in conflict resolution for couples, families and individuals. Please see ad top of column 1, next page 13.

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Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

Start a ‘Green’ Revolution In Your Own Backyard. Make a Victory Garden!

Do you want to go back to nature in a way that reduces your carbon footprint and supports the environment instead of destroying it? One simple way is to grow your own organic victory garden. During the World Wars there was a patriotic movement to create small home “victory gardens” to support the war effort. In 1943 victory gardens produced approximately one third of all of the fresh vegetables consumed in the U.S.

A Romanesco Cauliflower

One of the ways we can make a positive impact is by growing our own food. Homegrown food not only tastes better, it has more nutrition and is less expensive then store-bought organic. A few months ago I grew snap peas in my garden and gave some to my neighbors. The children devoured them, saying that they tasted better then candy. The organic seed packet cost $3.00 and produced over eight pounds of snap peas. I have found that in Central Florida I can grow just about anything that I need for food, including most herbs. The easiest way to get started with a victory garden is to take a shovel and dig up a few feet of your yard. Start small and increase in increments until you have manageable space (a nice beginning size is 4’x4’) that gets at least four to six hours of sun a day. The soil in Florida is mostly sand, but with a few additions it can become quite fruitful. When starting a new garden I add peat moss, composted manure and garden compost. The space is then ready to plant whatever you want. If you have no yard, consider a container garden. One of my students lives in an apartment and manages to grow vegetables, fruit trees, and herbs on her balcony in large containers. With some planning you can grow just about anything (it helps to grow com-

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pact or “bush” varieties of vegetables) in pots. Add a premixed organic soil such as “Organic Choice,” found at all major hardware chains. Place your seeds in the pot and water, being careful not to let the seeds dry out. Still not enough space? Join a community garden or petition your homeowners association to start one. Making a victory or community garden has many rewards, including helping the world become healthier and greener. In my small (8’ x 16’) backyard organic garden, I grew over 32 pounds of tomatoes, 11 pounds of eggplant, 26 green peppers, 22 onions, 12 cabbages (several over 5 pounds), eight cauliflower, radishes (including a four pound one), carrots, multiple herbs. In a three-foot square space I got 25 pounds of sweet potatoes. Having all of this fresh produce has not only saved me money, it has reduced my impact on the environment. Resources:

Gardener’s Supply Company: www.gardeners.com (Gardening supplies) Seeds of Change: www.seedsofchange.com (Organic seeds) Sunshine Hydroponics, Altamonte Springs, Florida: www.sunshinehydro.com (Organic fertilizers, and growing trays) Seminole Springs Antique Rose and Herb Farm: www. rosesandherbs.com (Organic herbs, vegetables, and roses)

Dawn Gates, Master Herbalist, aromatherapist, flower essence and gemstone elixir practitioner, has studied natural healing for 18 years. She has herb and aromatherapy consulting offices in Paisley, Deland and Orlando, Florida. Her school, “The Live Oak School of Natural Healing,” offers Herbalist Certification courses both in classroom and online. Visit: www.dawnsenchantedgarden.com or call for a consult. (352)669-1963; (407)967-6042. See ad immediate right, next page.

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

“linguini” pasta shape slices. When using the spiral slicer, clean the zucchini and cut into 4” pieces. Place one at a time (largest end down) in the spiralizer and watch the spaghetti roll as you press and turn the handle. Empty the bottom container often. Due to high water content, spread the spaghetti on a cookie sheet covered with a dish towel to allow it to dry for six to eight hours. You can do this early in the morning and finish the dish when you get home from work. Everyone will be surprised at how much the zucchini looks and tastes like pasta. I don’t peel my zucchini, but it will look a little more like pasta if you do. How about a romantic dinner for two? Try this sauce with your pasta.

Zany Pasta ‘Zukeghetti’ As promised last issue, here is a recipe for

a delightful dinner that can be completed in ten minutes in the morning and fifteen minutes in the evening. Remember to let your own creative juices run free. Have fun, sing, and dance to enhance all that good energy and love in the food you are about to serve yourself, family, and friends. The zucchini for this recipe is zany in shape, bland in taste, but can become our magic first step in this healthy raw food menu. Serve this “pasta” dish once a week. Serve at room temperature, but if you prefer to serve it warm (under 115°), heat in a dehydrator or in a very low oven (maybe even leave the door open a little) for thirty minutes to one hour.

Perfect Pasta:

Use one good sized zucchini per person. To transform the zucchini into zany perfect pasta, pick up a spiralizer at a kitchen specialty shop, on the web (Amazon), or at your neighborhood Publix ($15.99). These little gadgets make very quick work of turning the zucchini into angel hair pasta, however you can use your carrot peeler to make thin strips of the zucchini and then cut into “spaghetti” or

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Pesto, Basil and Pistachio Sauce

This is the best pesto ever! Serves 2 – 4

2 cups of basil (Mama J uses a combination of regular basil, lemon basil, cinnamon basil, sweet basil, and purple basil from our garden) ½ cup raw pistachios after shelling ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon sea salt or to taste 1 pinch of black pepper Place all the ingredients in a food processor and pulse until it is mixed well, but leaving some small chunks of the nuts for a tasteful and pretty appearance. With this pasta recipe I usually serve a simple sized salad of lettuce, tomato, and onion with an Italian dressing. One of our favorite Italian dressings is Mama J’s Fresh Dressing. Try it! You’ll like it!

Mama J’s Fresh Dressing

½ cup extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice 2 – 3 gloves garlic minced ½ - 1 teaspoon oregano ½ teaspoon sea salt Pepper to taste Put all ingredients together in a small jar and shake well. This will keep for several days. RULE: In the raw food world we must remember to taste, taste, taste, as no two apples are the same sweetness, no two lemons are the same tartness, so know we need to judge the taste as we go. We can always add more of an ingredient, but we can’t always take it out. Have happy, healthy, and delicious days! Please see ad, next page.

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

Cosmetics Wrap-Up Reprinted with Permission from “The Big Green Purse” by Diane MacEachern Publisher: Avery/Penguin Group, New York • • • •

•

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Give your body a break. Use fewer or no cosmetics on the days you don’t go to work. Cut back. Reduce the number of personal-care products you use overall by three. Read labels. Choose items that have the fewest, and safest, ingredients. Limit or avoid purchase of products that contain fragrance, phthalates, parabens, and triclosan or other antibacterial agents. Prioritize your spending. Shift first to products like safer deodorant and makeup that stay on your skin, and focusing on soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and other products that rinse off as your budget can afford it. Ask local stores to carry more organic options. Meanwhile, find brands online that you can trust. Cut back on trash. Choose products sold in the least amount of packaging.

And if you can do only one thing, create a line item in your budget for earth-friendly cosmetics and personal-care products. Shift at least 20 percent of the money you annually spend on shampoo, makeup, soaps and lotions to safer, greener options. If you reduce the number of products you use overall, you can budget the money you save for the purchase of the sometimes higher-priced eco options. phthalates are “industrial compounds that soften plastic, give perfume its slightly oily texture, and put the volatile oomph in hair sprays;” “found in nail polish, toothpaste and hundreds of other personal-care products. parabens are “one of the most common cosmetic preservatives;” “they cause problems like allergic dermatitis and skin rashes.” triclosan is an antibacterial agent now “being added to products as harmless as toothpaste, hand lotion, and body wash.” Source: “Beauty ... or the Beast? Cosmetics and Personal-Care Products.” The Big Green Purse. 2008. Diane MacEachern. Avery/Penguin. New York.

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

As the green revolution grows in strength I have noticed an increasing number of farmers’ markets popping up all over Central Florida. Farmers’ markets are great for small business owners who do not have the capital to mass produce their wares, or for farmers to sell their extra inventory within the local community. I have met some extraordinary artisans who produce fantastic items — cheeses, juices, baked goods and locally grown produce — and admire them for their entrepreneurial spirit.

for organic farmers who must grow hearty varieties that can stand up to the heat and pests. Typical produce grown includes beans, beets, blueberries, cabbage, cantaloupes, carrots, collards, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, English peas, fennel, hay, herbs, jicama, kale, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, melons, millet, muscadine grapes, mustard greens, oats, okra, onions, peppers, and radishes.

I have not given up on attending farmers’ markets, but I now ask questions that help me to make the best and most economical However, a farmers’ market does not al- purchasing decisions. ways guarantee that you’re dealing with a farmer or a knowledgeable seller. Nor does 1. Are they the farmer? When I ask this I am looking to see if the person is actually responsible it mean that the produce you are buying is for growing what I am about to purchase. local or organic. 2. If they answer yes, I then ask what kinds of At one farmers’ market, I was excited to see a large selection of produce available. But when I began inspecting the products I noticed items that I know are not generally grown in Florida and would definitely not be in season if they were! After questioning the retailer, I learned that they ordered from a large national food supply company, sold whatever came in, and that they had no idea where the produce was grown. Their prices were less expensive than the grocery store’s and the produce was fresh. However, I could not let go of the feeling that I was somehow being tricked. I overheard many customers that morning sharing their excitement over the local Florida produce they were purchasing, but I left empty handed and disappointed.

There are 84 organic farms in the state of Florida and most are small and grow anywhere between one and twenty different products. Florida is a harsh environment www.ReadVelocity.com •

3. 4.

pesticides and fertilizers are used (and the frequency). If they answer no, I will ask if they are part of the farm or if they know where the produce is coming from. If they answer that they have just purchased from a national distributor or they are working for a clearinghouse I will usually thank them and continue on to other vendors.

The questions of whether ‘local’ is more important than ‘organic’ or whether ‘domestic’ is better than international produce must be decided on an individual basis. It is vitally important that we support our local farmers and continue to create a sustainable method of distribution. (For a free guide to pesticides in produce visit: www.foodnews.org)

Kimberly Lanham, CEO of Get Green Organics whose vision it is to empower, educate and provide organic foods for the purpose of creating better and healthier lives, has a Masters Degree in Applied Economics from the University of Central Florida and a Masters Degree in Business Administration from Rollins College. See Kimberly’s ad, left.

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

he health of our humanity is in danger. For nearly one hundred years, we’ve been lied to. We’ve been fed misinformation, empty food, and dangerous medications. Somewhere along the way, we thought we knew better than Great Source when it came to our food. We thought we’d grow our food in a new and different way, adding chemicals to virtually every step of the process from planting to harvesting. We started growing single crops on vast plots of land, stripping the soil of valuable nutrients and consequently, our food. Next, we took the harvest of our crops and processed it so that it could sit on shelves for years at a time. We thought we knew better, so we took away the color of our food. For example, we transformed the rich brown hues of our grains into stark white, once again stripping our grains of valuable nutrients. Then we pumped our food full of synthetic chemicals that would allow us to pack it inside cardboard boxes. We also decided that we knew better when it came to our medicine. We abandoned the system of healing that we had used since we evolved into upright beings, and replaced it with concentrated, synthetic chemicals that hadn’t been used for very long at all. We chose medicines that isolated and attacked over medicines that supported the body’s own remarkable ability to heal itself. As a matter of natural course, things started changing. Cancer grew from 3% of all deaths in 1900 to 20% today, and it is still growing. Over 60% of all cancer is now thought to be dietary-related. Diabetes has grown from one-tenth of one percent in 1900 to over 20% today. We’ve grown from producing less than one million pounds of synthetic chemicals each year, to producing over 14 billion a year today. Over 60% of the processed foods in the grocery store contain a genetically modified ingredient. Fast food grew from a $6 billion industry in 1970 to a $115 billion industry today.

Find Your Voice

And Use It!

by Emily Ruff Contributing Green Editor We’re now the most overfed yet undernourished population in the world. The American form of malnutrition comes not from a lack of food, but from a lack of nutrients in that food. When we don’t feed our body the nutrients it needs to function, it can’t function. When we add chemicals to try to fix the dysfunction of our bodies, we either lay a temporary bandage over the problem, or more likely, make way for a new one.

ur country is long overdue for a revolution, and it starts in each home, in each kitchen, and in each medicine cabinet. We must understand what it means to nourish our bodies and our souls and then do so. Co-create this revolution with me! It’s not just green, but a deep rich brown of the soil and the trees, and a brilliant azure of the skies and the seas. It’s the ripe red strawberry and the golden tangerine. To create the revolution, we must envision the revolution. What does it look like to you? To me, it looks like freedom. My vision of freedom empowers each of my brothers and sisters to know they have access to universal healthcare. Yes, I said it — universal healthcare. It’s universal, it’s accessible, it’s affordable, it’s sustainable — it starts in my backyard. I envi-

sion a revolution where each of us grows our own food and our own medicine, in harmony with the ecosystem and the nuances of our bioregions. To create the revolution, we must give voice to the revolution. Talk to your friends. Share what you know about the earth, about the ways we pillage her resources every day, and about the solutions she so simply provides to us in our backyards. Speak about our food system and how it has utterly failed us for over a century. Speak about our healthcare system and the ways it is broken. And listen to what they know, too, for we must learn from each other. Lift your voice to those that make the laws. Start with your city council — change your neighborhood, and then your city. Organize a community garden or a city-wide ban on genetically modified crops. Our voices carry across vast spaces when we sing as a choir. Head to the capital, and speak your truth to our state legislators. Write to your congressman. Demand that our country end a century of allowing harmful chemicals into our drinking water and our natural lands through agricultural and pharmaceutical run-off. Demand that we return to a biodynamic form of agriculture, so we can repair and replenish the pillaged soils of our nation. Demand that we uphold organic standards, so that the label “organic” truly means something. Demand that we start teaching our children that tomatoes come from a plant, not from a plastic container at the grocery store; that milk comes from a cow, not from a plastic jug. Demand that we uphold the freedom to choose a system of healthcare that honors our bodies and that honors the planet.

he revolution is here and the revolution is now. To create the revolution, we must live the revolution. It starts with me and it starts with you, with a simple step each day or each week, living towards sustainable health. Cut back on one processed food at a time Continued on page 20

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

Continued from page 19 that isn’t serving you. Explore one new food that will bring you a colorful spectrum of minerals and nutrients. Drink a little more water. Take a walk around the block. Use a flower essence to reconnect and heal your spirit. Get a little more sleep. Grow a potted herb on your back porch. Drink a cup of herbal tea each night before bed. Commit to yourself and your health. Embrace your own power to heal, to transform. When we start to heal ourselves, we heal the planet. That is revolutionary. Emily Ruff, herbalist, is director of the Florida School of Herbal Studies, a 501c3 nonprofit educational institution committed to creating sustainable communities by empowering individuals to reclaim their radiant wellbeing through reconnecting with the natural world. Emily has studied herbalism on three continents over the past decade and consults individuals on holistic nutrition, herbalism, aromatherapy and flower essences. Contact the school at 407-595-3731. See ad for Florida School of Holistic Living and Evolve, left.

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Leaf Talk by Ross Hester, PA, CH

A long time ago, high atop a majestic oak tree in the northeast corner of the stately state of New York, lived three leaves in the canopy: Al, Lief and Larry. Al enjoyed reminding the others that he was the top leaf: “Of course a leaf in my position...,” or “Being top leaf...,” or “If I were at your level...” Nevertheless, Larry and Lief agreed that Al was a pretty good neighbor and a worthwhile individual. The view from the canopy was spectacular. The redgolden radiance of the first rays of sunlight spilled over the edges of the horizon. The new day’s brilliance, like a flooding river overflowing its banks, was hopeless to contain the sun’s energy one moment longer. The leaves bathed in the warm golden radiance that, in addition to revealing the green beauty in their form and previously hidden by night’s shroud, also energized their chlorophyll and started the day’s work of converting sunlight and CO2 to satisfy the tree’s needs. It was an easy job and they felt a sense of importance that comes from knowing that, without them and their lower neighbors, the entire planet’s atmosphere was at risk. They could look down on the valley below and watch the coming and going, rushing and racing of the rest of the world below. They watched animals preparing their dens and nests, birds laying their eggs, and humans on their highways and byways, bashing and banging to get somewhere on time. Insulated from the confusion below, they passed their moments, observing and listening, feeling the warm sun or cool breeze on their surface, while pouring oxygen into the atmosphere so the silly humans and other creatures could survive. To them, oxygen was just waste, an inevitable by-product of their job. They could perceive, though, that to those fast-moving creatures below, it was critical. As so often happens with beings of such importance, they felt obliged, justified, and even compelled to frankly comment to each other about the scene spread beneath them, much of which they could neither understand nor relate to. “I don’t know what this world is comin’ to,” said Al.” “Me neither,” agreed Larry, it seems they’re always in a hurry.” “I wonder what’s so important, “mused Lief, “that they would rush so and crash into one another.” Even the cool rains that bathed their green pores from time to time didn’t seem to slow the frantic pace of mankind. The humans seemed to just splash through it, more hurried than ever. Only the most wayward or determined of insects got high enough to munch on or bother them. Very few birds flew so high that relieving themselves became an annoyance for the leaves, and few leaf-eating mammals made it that high, either. A more idyllic existence is hardly imaginable, but Al was worried. “I might only have a little time left,” he complained to Lief and Larry, “one never knows.” “Knows what?” asked Larry awaking from his dozing, his cells still continuing their photosynthesis.

“How long I have,” replied Al. “How long you have for what?” asked Larry, still confused, but turning slightly in the breeze to focus more of his attention on his higher neighbor. “To be a leaf,” moaned Al sadly. “Well, what else would you be?” “Dead, you fool,” answered Al impatiently. “I’ve always been a leaf ever since I was a sprout. Don’t you know what happens to leaves?” “No, do you, Lief?” queried Larry. “Eventually,” Lief replied philosophically, “they turn brown and fall off the tree.” “Not me,” said Larry, that hasn’t happened to me. “No, but it will,” Al insisted, “it happens to all leaves.” “Why?” asked Larry, now interested. “It’s part of our life cycle,” Lief explained. “That’s how the tree grows and stays efficient, by dropping old leaves and sprouting new ones.” “I don’t believe it,” asserted Larry, “it never happened to me.” “No, but it happened to the leaf you replaced,” insisted Al. “Alas! poor Yorick!” “You mean?” Larry asked softly. “Fell to his death,” stated Al matter-of-factly. “If you ask me,” Lief interjected,” he was dead long before he fell.” “Well, I didn’t ask you.” Al sniffed. “You always tell me what you think whether I ask or not.” “Wait a minute,” begged Larry, “when does this happen?” “One never knows,” said Al, “one moment you’re a top leaf like me and the next thing you know you’re on the way to the bottom of a compost heap on the ground.” “Horrors!” exclaimed Larry. “It seems to have something to do with the seasons,” Lief observed, “but it can happen at any time.” “Yeah,” agreed Al, “one moment you’re fine, just feelin’ a little dry, and the next moment a gust of wind is carrying you away and all is lost. I just can’t get it off my mind.” “Well,” mused Larry to himself as much as anything, “it seems to me that if you don’t have any choice about it and can’t change it, it’s not worth worrying about.” “That’s easy for you to say,” Continued page 23

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

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The Fragrant Flower by Michelle Hummel

The lovely fragrant flower Doesn’t grow without the rain And I have learned that on life’s path There’s no peace without pain. If flower had an ego and feared every thunderstorm, She’d never feel the gentle rain or feel the sun so warm

Continued from page 21 sniffed Al, “a leaf in my position must be concerned about such things.” “But if it’s outside of your control,” Larry insisted, “worrying can’t help but distract you from enjoying the view and the time you have.” “I can’t help it,” answered Al. “Is some other leaf controlling your mind?” Lief asked. “No,” replied Al. “So can’t you choose what to think about?” “Of course.” “Can’t you choose what not to think about?” “That’s easier said than done.” “Well, if you’re thinking about water, and are really thirsty, do you think about bugs?” “Not usually.” “Then if I think hard enough about something good, I won’t have time to think about bad things?” “I never thought about it that way before.” “You know, if you think hard enough about when my time to fall is coming, you won’t have time to worry about your time,” observed Lief. “And, you won’t have time to think about your falling if you’re thinking about me,” interjected Larry.

For to avoid the rain and hide Each time there came a shower… She’d surely fade away and die; There’d be no lovely flower.

“Okay, then, you think about me and I’ll think about you and the time will fly by.”

Can you and I shake ego, too, like all the lovely flowers do? If pain and lack have run their course, We’ll simply use them as the force Through which we pray for peace – so near And not because it is not here.

“What’s the difference?” asked Al.

“But I’m still worrying — just about you,” objected Al. “Well, just be concerned about it; but don’t worry,” said Lief.

“If you’re concerned, you care, but aren’t fixated or preoccupied. You can still think in terms of enjoying the view or the sunshine,” offered Larry, beginning to understand. “I like that. You mean, if I focus on the good things, I can still care about the bad things?” “Not only that but you can also do something constructive about the bad things.” “So, I’m supposed to just hang on and enjoy the view?” “Sure beats worrying.” “Sounds like a plan... I’ll try.” “I’ll remind you,” promised Larry. Ross Hester is a Physician Assistant, Advanced Certified Hypnotherapist, and Certified NLP Practitioner. Ross creates recordings with a hypnosis script customized for your specific needs. He serves as active member of several professional hypnosis associations and works full-time in hypnosis, writing and teaching. He can be reached at (352)383-2300. Please refer to Ross’ ad for Chocolate Life Solutions, page 20.

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

EVENTS

MARCH 2009

MARCH

SUN MON

“Spring has returned. The earth is like a child that knows poems. “ — Rainer Maria Rilke, Austrian Poet (1875–1926)

March 1 PranaVinyasa and Power Flow with master teacher Sara Devi (CYT1000, ERYT500); 10am-12pm; Jeweled Lotus Yoga; Leesburg; 352-874-3272; register online at www.JeweledLotusYoga.com; fee Worm Composting 101-Urban Homestead Series; 2pm; Evolve Store, Orlando; reserve your space; 407-595-3731; fee March 3 Guided Imagery; 7:15-8:30pm; Gematria; Mount Dora; 352-589-6307; Love Offering March 5 Natural Selections or A.S.K Series; 1-4pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee You Can Heal Your Life (six week class based on the work of Louise Hay); 6pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; fee March 5-April 9 The Secret of Weight Loss; 5:30- 7:30pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee March 6 Metaphysical Movie Night, 7-9pm; Lotus Yoga Center; Apopka; fee Skin Care Naturally; 1-3pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; Fee March 7 Survival Skills - Earth; 1-4 pm; Florida School of Holistic Living, Orlando; 407-595-3731; fee. Past Lives Hypnosis, 12:30 to 2:30pm; Lotus Yoga Center, Apopka; 407-697-6437 Introduction to Moonifestation; 5:30pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; explore the fluctuations of energy within the moon’s cycle, and the influences of each lunar phase; must RSVP; fee March 8 Daylight Savings Time Begins Wayne Dyer’s film, “Ambition to Meaning: Finding Your Life’s Purpose;” 1-4pm; Lotus Yoga Center; Apopka; 407-697-6437; DVD’s will be on sale; please RSVP; fee Cleanse Your Body-Detox Discovery Class; 2pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; space limited; must RSVP; tuition incl. take-home materials; fee March 10 Full Moon Community Circle; 6-10 pm; at Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; sponsored by Florida School of Holistic Living, Shine On Yoga, Dandelion Communitea Cafe family friendly (no dogs please); www.holisticlivingschool.org/community/moon.html; Love Offering March 12 Cleanse Your Body - Detox Discovery Class 6:30pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; space is

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TUE

WED

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SAT

limited; must RSVP; tuition includes take-home materials; fee March 13 Awakened Drumming with Buddy Helm, drummer for Frank Zappa and Allman Brothers ; 7pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; must RSVP; fee March 14 Rainwater Catchment-Urban Homestead Series; 1pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; must RSVP; fee March 15 Relationships That Work; 3-hour workshop; 1-4pm; Unity of Gainesville Church; 352-332-8579; http://satvatove.com/register.php; fee Birthing from Within All Day Intensive; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; a holistic approach to childbirth preparation that integrates mind, body, and soul; must RSVP; fee March 10 Human Enrichment Meeting; 6-8pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; Love Offering March 11 Group Healing; 7:30-8:30pm; Gematria; Mount Dora; 352-589-6307 or 352-516-9608; Love Offering March 12 Introduction to Flower Essences; 6:30pm; six week class explores the Bach Flower remedies; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731 March 14 “I Meditate Workshop;” 10am-2pm; FREE ; learn simple techniques for relaxation and stress relief; Lake Mary Library; for more information, please call 407-268-5433 Abraham Study Group; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; Love Offering Breathwork: A Viable Tool for Self-Exploration (CE Credits: 6 for LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, Psychologists, Midwifery, Nutritionists and LMT); 8:30-4:30pm; 3954 NW 41st Lane, Gainesville; (call for directions/private residence); fee Reiki Circle; 3:30-4:30pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; Love Offering March 17 Manifesting Your Heart’s Desire; 10am-1pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee Guided Imagery; 7:15-8:30pm; Gematria; Mount Dora; 352-589-6307; Love Offering March 18 Stop Smoking with Hypnosis; 7:15pm; YOU Health Center; Orlando; 863-420-3634; fee Orbs, What Are They?; 6-8pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee

March 18-25 Cleanse Your Body Challenge; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; enter a purification journey using herbs, nutrition, and holistic tools; must RSVP; completion of Cleanse Your Body-Detox Discovery Class is prerequisite for participation; fee March 20 First Day of Spring Equinox Celebration and Vegetarian Potluck ; 6:30pm; Jeweled Lotus Yoga; Leesburg; 352-874-3272; Bring a vegetarian dish to share! Enjoy good food and fun. Non-alcoholic beverages will be served; Love Offering Indoor Wine Bottle Garden/Hydroponics; 7:00-8:30pm; Gematria; Mount Dora; 352-516-9608; pre-register; fee March 21 Holistic Health Club; 10am; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; please RSVP; fee Hypnosis for Weight Loss; Lotus Yoga Center; Apopka; 407-697-6437; fee Detox Cleansing “101;” 10-11:30am; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; free Candlemaking 101-Urban Homestead Series; 1pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-5953731; please RSVP; fee Spice Up Your Sex Life-For Couples Only; 1-3pm; You Health Center; Orlando; 407-462-8298; fee March 22 Birthing from Within All Day Intensive; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; a holistic approach to childbirth preparation that integrates mind, body, and soul; must RSVP; fee Spirit Doll Love Magick; 4:30-6:30pm; Avalon; Orlando; 407-462-8298; fee March 24 Past Life Regression; 10am-1pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee Green and Healthy Homes - Introduction to Building Biology; 7pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; must RSVP; FREE. March 25 Group Healing; 7:30-8:30pm; Gematria; Mount Dora; 352-589-6307 or 352-516-9608; Love Offering March 26 New Moon Community Circle; 6-10 pm; at Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; sponsored by Florida School of Holistic Living, Shine On Yoga, Dandelion Communitea Cafe; family friendly (no dogs please); www.holisticlivingschool. org/community/moon.html; Love Offering March 27 Spiritual Movie Night, 6:30-8:30pm; Lotus Yoga Center; Apopka; 407-697-6437; fee

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

EVENTSAPRIL

APRIL 2009 SUN MON

TUE

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FRI

SAT

MARCH

“There are no passengers on Spaceship Earth. We are all crew.”

— Marshal McLuhan, Canadian Writer and Thinker, (1911–1980) Yoga Nidra with master teacher Sarasvati Devi (CYT1000, ERYT500); register online at www.JeweledLotusYoga.com; fee March 28 Waves of Light Healing Class; 10am-5pm; Gematria; Mount Dora; space limited; register early; 352-589-6307; fee March 27-29 Transformative Communication and Self-Empowerment All Day Event; Hilton University CenterGainesville; 352-332-8571 March 28 A Taste of Mills 50; 6-10pm; highlighting the Mills district’s restaurants, musicians, live performers, artists and holistic services; 1013 E. Colonial Dr.; Orlando; City of Orlando sponsored event

April 4 Smile of the Soul: Connecting to Your Inner Self through Music, Breathwork, Sound, and Dance; 12:306:30pm; Lotus Yoga Center; Apopka; 407-697-6437 Green Cleaning Workshop; 2-4pm; Jeweled Lotus Yoga; Leesburg; 352-874-3272; register online at www.jeweledlotusyoga.com; fee Meditation is Fun! 6-8pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee April 6 Introduction to Kinesiology; 10am-1pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee April 7 Green and Healthy Living - In Depth Course; 7pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; fee

Reiki I; 9am-5pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee

Guided Imagery; 7:15-8:30pm; Gematria; Mount Dora; 352-589-6307; Love Offering

Edible Landscaping - Urban Homestead Series; 10am; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; please RSVP; fee

April 8 Group Healing; 7:30-8:30pm; Gematria; Mount Dora; 352-589-6307 or 352-516-9608; Love Offering

Propagating: Seeds, Cuttings, Divisions - Urban Homestead Series; 12:30pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; fee

April 9 Passover Full Moon Community Circle; 6-10 pm; at Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; sponsored by Florida School of Holistic Living, Shine On Yoga, Dandelion Communitea Cafe; Love Offering

Growing Herbs that Can Take the Heat - Urban Homestead Series; 3pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; fee March 28-29 Tampa Greenfest at Plant Park; TampaGreenFest.com March 29 Roots of Herbalism - six week introduction to plantbased healing; 3-5pm each Sunday for six weeks; Florida School of Holistic Living, Orlando; 407-595-3731: Tuition includes hands-on instruction and take-home herbs. March 31 Numerology; 5:30- 8pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee April 1 Introduction to Holistic Nutrition (six week course explores the philosophies and practices to truly nourish your body); 6 pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; fee Reclaiming Your Sacred Cycle (six week course the sacred feminine, women’s health, menstruation, and the traditions of our ancestors); 6:30 pm; Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407-595-3731; fee April 2 “A.S.K.” Series; 1-4pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee April 3-5 First Year Healing Arts Classes Begin: YAHWEH Academy of Light; Mount Dora; Must Pre-register; 352-589-6307; fee

April 11 Abraham Study Group; 2-3pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; Love Offering

ation; Gematria; Mount Dora; 352-589-6307; fee April 18 Love Your Mother Earth Fest 2009; 6-9pm; Jeweled Lotus Yoga; Leesburg; 352-874-3272; Celebrate with a tribute to Mother Earth; festivities kick off with the second annual Eco-Fashion Show, featuring the latest in green textiles and sustainable fashions - including jewelry and accessories by local artisans; enjoy a chair massage or a Thai yoga demo; sample delicious vegetarian food prepared by the Gourmet Vegetarian and sample local and organic wines; register now at www.JeweledLotusYoga.com; fee Detox Cleansing “101;” 10-11:30am; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; free Heart Spiral Class; 1-4pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee April 19 Art of Seduction-Women Only; 1-3pm; Seven Sisters Coffeehouse; Orlando; 407-462-8298; fee Eco-Love; 4-6pm; Seven Sisters Coffeehouse; Orlando; 407-462-8298; fee April 20 EFT (Tapping Technique); 10am-1pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee April 21 Guided Imagery; 7:15-8:30pm; Gematria; Mount Dora; 352-589-6307; Love Offering April 22 EARTH DAY

Reiki Circle; 3:30-4:30pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; Love Offering

Group Healing; 7:30-8:30pm; Gematria; Mount Dora; 352-589-6307 or 352-516-9608; Love Offering

April 12 Easter Sunday

April 25 Earth Day New Moon Community Circle; 6-10 pm; at Florida School of Holistic Living; Orlando; 407595-3731; sponsored by Florida School of Holistic Living, Shine On Yoga, Dandelion Communitea Cafe; family friendly; Love Offering

April 13 Kriya Breathwork; 6-7pm; Gematria; Mount Dora; 352-589-6307 or 352-516-9608; fee April 14 Human Enrichment Meeting; 6-8pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; Love Offering April 14-21 Wild Dolphin Swim Healing Adventure; Seacrest Hotel, on boats and in the ocean; Alicetown, North Bimini Bahamas; 603-345-8156; see ad page 5. April 15 Lose Weight with Hypnosis; 7:15pm; YOU Health Center; Orlando; 863-420-3634; fee Orbs, What Are They?; 6-8pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee April 16 Palmistry; 5:30-8pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee April 17 The Power of Fluid Movement; 7-9pm; allow music and the wisdom of your body to bring fun and relax-

PranaVinyasa and Power Flow with master teacher Sarasvati Devi (CYT1000, ERYT500); 2-4pm; Jeweled Lotus Yoga; Leesburg; 352-874-3272; register online at www.JeweledLotusYoga.com; fee April 25-26 North Central Florida Holistic Health Conference (up to 18 CEU’s can be earned); 8am-6pm; Florida School of Massage; Gainesville; 1-877-525-8338; fee; see ad page 5. April 30 - June 4 The “Secret “of Weight Loss; 5:30-7:30pm; All About Art; Belleview; 352-307-9774; fee May 2 Central Florida Earth Day-See ad page 4. (www. CFEarthDay.org); 10:00am-6:00pm; Lake Eola Park; Downtown Orlando; info@CFEARTHDAY.ORG; free to attend

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

Late in 2007 I had dragonflies on my mind, so I looked up ‘dragonfly symbolism’ on the internet and learned that dragonflies are a symbol of transformation. On a personal level, that made sense to me since I had set my retirement date from the Federal government for the end of March, 2008, and was happily looking forward to a different life. For several years I had studied hypnosis and neurolinguistic programming (itself often called a technology of change), and I had become certified in both. I had practiced Reiki energy healing for over ten years and was ready to use my skills to help others. It was also clear that major transformations were occurring on a cosmic level. Notions of consciousness, intention, and quantum energy were going public and it all made sense. Movies like “What the Bleep Do We Know” and “The Secret” brought the concepts to a wider audience, and they definitely helped me to put some things together. Most important in my personal transformation was a new form of energy medicine named “LuxMani.” It changed my life. “LuxMani,” translated to mean Lux as light and Mani for hands, is an approach in which energy awareness and transformation of energy is at its core. LuxMani derives its power by opening our inner space for expanded awareness. Connecting with the angels or light beings of the Seven Rays of Light opens possibilities for deeper insights and powerful healing.When we ‘re-member’ who we truly are and ‘re-connect’ with Source, we find ourselves tapping into amazing healing powers outside ourselves and yet within.” - from the RainbowHealingCenter.com website I have never been an ‘angel’ person and only discovered a personal connection with my higher power at the age of 60 when I had a truly transcendental experience in Petra, Jordan. During my LuxMani certification training, I could neither sense nor see the light beings, although I was told they were there in great numbers, for me. Two days after the training, I was scheduled for shoulder surgery and biopsies of a large tumor inside my bone. I received extensive LuxMani healing during the training and not only were the biopsies negative, there were no signs of anything irregular. I have had amazing results with LuxMani, treating conditions from fibromyalgia to entrenched worrying. It works and keeps on working when treatment is over. I discover new possibilities and insights with each treatment I give and I can see the angels now. Daily, I thank God for allowing me to channel and direct this wonderful Divine Light and energy. I plan to keep riding the dragonfly for a long time. There’s a whole lot of transformation yet to come. Susan Mair is a Certified Hypnotist and Master Practitioner of Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP). She is skilled in Energy Medicine, both as a Reiki Master and Certified LuxMani Practitioner. She is a member of the International Association of Counselors and Therapists and an Officer of the Hypnosis Education Association. She is a partner in Alternative Health Blueprint in Winter Park and can be reached at 407-678-0047. Please see ad page 62.

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over the side and watched the dolphins below us effortlessly riding the underwater wave created by the boat’s movement. Their enjoyment was palpable and sometimes one of them would turn on one side and look up at me – making gentle eye contact for a minute, then whiz away out to sea only to be replaced by a brother or sister from the pod. “Join our pod,” they beckoned telepathically. The dolphins played with the boat for hours and then it was time for the people to get into the water. In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean the choice to stay or go when we stopped the boat and got into the sea was clearly theirs. They stayed. Cautious at first, they checked us out and swam beneath us. As we all acclimated to each other they grew bolder and came closer. Their playful spirit of unconditional love had everyone in a blissful state. I dove with my fins, mask and snorkel down about fifteen feet. I knew from previous dolphin experiences that they loved when I dove down deeper into their world.

t the bottom of my descent I hung underwater head first. A group of adult dolphins swam upward directly toward me. One of them in the front and center made eye contact with me telling me, “Relax, we will surround you now gently.”

They swam all around me as we made the journey back to the surface together. There were at least five of them, moving, swimming mere centimeters from my body almost touching my arms and shoulders but not quite. Each of their eyes lightly entrained my gaze for a moment until they swam past. The one who led the pack from below now gently sidled up in front of me. His beak almost on my forehead, he looked within me and sent me acceptance beyond words. With his gaze and transcendent heart connection he welcomed me into the pod for all time.

he turquoise water glinted in the sun as the boat cut through the mild chop on the Atlantic. The island of North Bimini faded toward the horizon and my mind flashed back to images from a dream the night before: dolphin’s eyes and smiles, air bubbles in warm ocean water, the feeling of my heart opening wider and the essence of peace.

Someone on the boat spoke to me and I responded in kind, making conversation as the boat sped on. On the bow someone yelled, “Dolphins!” Everyone ran up to the front of the boat. Dolphins were why we were all here on the boat and why we had traveled to the sunwashed islands of the Bahamas in the first place.

That pod still visits me telepathically from time to time and I them. We are joined in love. We all share the understanding that love transcends space and time and does not necessarily require physical proximity. We live the knowledge that love is free. Excerpted from the upcoming book: “Whales and Dolphins Legacy Of Love,” © 2009 Amy Leigh Halvatzes Please see Amy Leigh’s ad for Wild Dolphin Swim trips on page 5. Shaman, channel and medical intuitive, Amy Leigh created Element Therapy™ and Water Element Therapy.™ Both are available on her Transformational Travel™ trips to swim with wild dolphins in The Bahamas and Azores in April and June of 2009. Amy speaks at conferences, teaches ecourses and offers sessions to increase our quality of life. For information and free channeled messages, visit her website: www.ContinuumNetwork.com.

We all lay on our bellies on the front of the boat with our heads hanging

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

n a time when our country and the world are becoming more conscious about how we treat the planet, about the thoughts that take residence in our mind, and about the food we put in our bodies, another awakening is stirring. Women are experiencing a conscious shift towards claiming their personal power in the areas of intimacy and sexual expression. This expression is coming from a place of inner knowing and authenticity. If feelings of discomfort arise, the Universe is shining a light on areas of our lives that may need to be healed. Sexuality is a path on which we have all journeyed. Without it, we wouldn’t exist, yet many of us hide from this essential aspect of our Being. Women are taking an active sex-positive approach to this emerging revolution that fosters conscious sexuality. This isn’t the revolution of the 70s. It digs deep into the hidden aspects of self, yearning for us to enjoy Divine Play, and let go of unrealistic, unfulfilling beliefs about sexuality. This is the holistic integration of body, mind and soul — not the body minus the second (sex) chakra. It’s like walking up a flight of stairs. If you miss a step, you can stumble. Have you been stumbling? A spiritual teacher asked me, “Are you ready to live a fully embodied life?” Without hesitation I said, “Yes, who isn’t?” As I delved into the often misunderstood teachings of Tantra, like a splash of arctic water and gale-forced winds, I was in for an awakening of a different kind. With years of meditation, spiritual practice and esoteric knowledge, I believed Tantra would take my practice and intimate experiences to another plane of existence. Well…it did. I landed flat on my rear. No amount of reading and lecture can prepare you for training that involved 15 hour days of intense meditation, yoga, breathwork and emotional release. This is the Tantra I experienced, not what’s stereotypically associated with the teaching. I experienced a rollercoaster of emotions from laughing, to crying, and at times, anger. I wondered, “When will I feel joy?” The answer was simple. I was in the midst of my joy. Tantric practice is like tilling the soil. The soil is your emotions. Tilling uproots the rocks and dead roots; these are outdated paradigms that immobilize you from fully embracing your bliss state. In order to plant a new consciousness, an empowered consciousness, the soil must be fertile, not a hard barren field. I recognized I was afraid to unleash this powerful sexual energy, my “bliss state.” I was afraid of losing control, afraid of opening a Pandora’s Box and getting lost. I was asked, “Do you want to be whole?” My monkey mind was in overdrive playing all the mental games it’s so good at doing. It would shout, “Good girls don’t do this or talk about that.” All this mind chatter was judgment. I gave myself permission to experience deep intimacy, profound joy and the courage to speak to other women and couples about expanding their sensual experiences. Coming from a place of empowerment, conscious sexuality is like peeling back the layers of an onion. You’re peeling back societal conditioning of what sexual expression is and redefining it for yourself, but from a place of strength. As we open our consciousness to a greater expansion of life, to experience new sensations within our bodies that allow us to remain present to deeper states of joy, a true sex-positive revolution has breathed life in our beloved O-Town. You have awakened the sensual Being in you. Stacey has been a student of White Tantra (Kundalini) Yoga for nine years and is a Level 2 Initiate in the Ipsalu Tantra Kriya Yoga Tradition (Pink Tantra). Stacey is a Certified Rootworker specializing in Love Mysticism and is currently studying to receive her Love Coach and Sex Expert Certifications under the leadership of Dr. Ava Cadell, founder of Loveology University. For the past year, Stacey has led private in-home intimacy events teaching women how to reclaim their sexual joy. Her teaching style offers students a balanced approach of technique within an artistic mindset. See ad this page.

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Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

Five years ago, if you had told me I’d still be in Orlando, I would’ve called you crazy. I was eyeing several locations around the country for relocation because I was attracted to the conscious communities in places like San Francisco, Portland, Asheville and Austin. Aside from a thriving music and arts scene, each of these cities boasted a strong base of locally owned and independently operated businesses that made the cities far more attractive than the rows of Best Buys and Olive Gardens found in every major shopping center in Central Florida. When I got the wild idea to open an organic community-centered café, it seemed silly to try a venture like that in a city I was unfamiliar with and it was obvious that Central Florida was hungry for such a thing. And so it was! Now that Dandelion Communitea Café is celebrating its third year, it’s found strength in the bustling activities of neighboring indy businesses and the block has transformed from a desolate tract to a vibrant healing epicenter right at the heart of Orlando. Now, I not only call Orlando home, I am excited to be co-creating a conscious community that has all the ingredients to become a magnet city like the ones I once considered moving to. We’ve got great music, art, theatre, a growing bike culture, lots of interest in re-localizing our food network and several thriving farmers’ markets in Central Florida. What’s

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needed now is a serious dedication of our citizens to support local, independent efforts whenever possible and to turn more people on to values-based consumerism as if their quality of life depended on it. By thinking local, we can make choices that have dramatic impact on our local communities, economies and environments. We will rarely be able to buy everything that we need or use from local, independent businesses. From coffee to clothes to computers, many of the products we use daily are not made locally or may not be offered at a high level of quality. In instances like this, it is always good to look for the “Fair Trade” logo implicating that this is a quality product made by real people with concern for their environment, in essence, the locals from somewhere else! One of the greatest things we can do as individuals to support the “Ourlando” community is to patronize its

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TOP 10 REASONS TO THINK LOCAL FIRST 1. Keep Money in the Neighborhood. For every $100 spent at a locally-owned business, $45 goes back into the local community and our tax base. For every $100 spent at a chair store, only $14 comes back. 2. Help the Environment. Independent businesses make purchases requiring less transportation and are usually located in commercial corridors and in-town instead of developing on the fringe. This means less sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution. 3. Support Community Groups. Non-profit organizations receive an average of 250% more support from local business owners than they do from non-locally owner businesses.

locally owned businesses. Compared to their national competitors, local independent businesses recycle more money back into the local economy and give greater support to our community’s non-profit and civic needs. They are better positioned to respond to the special needs of the community and they are more tied to the community’s future. Rather than a homogenized city, independents ensure the unique character of the community as a great place to live as well as visit. The publication you are reading is a terrific example of something unique our city has to offer. Velocity is an independent, woman owned publication dedicated to sharing the conscious news and views of leaders in the community and its pages are filled with advertisers that are local, independent and conscious. It’s a jem of a publication and us lucky folks in Central Florida are the only ones who have it! To ensure its publication, it’s so important to let the advertisers know that you heard about them here, so they

know the impact this publication has on your purchasing decisions. I know that if I’m looking for a local resource for something, Velocity is one of the first places I turn to. Oftentimes, we go to a non-local “big box” store out of habit and what seems to be convenient. Right now, it’s planting season and our car tends to go on auto-pilot to Home Depot, often driving right past a great locally owned nursery like Palmer’s Garden and Goods in Audubon Park. It’s time to stop operating on auto-pilot and make conscious choices to build a relationship with the highly educated folks at the local nursery instead of a sterile transaction at the mega marts. Your garden and your local community will thank you! The Ourlando movement is about the spirit of community and the enrichment this brings to its citizens through the support of a vibrant local living economy, its diverse culture and our pride of place. Ourlando “locally made” is a local first campaign developed by the Progressive Local Alliance for Community Enrichment (PLACE). Rather than simply promoting “buying” local, we are suggesting our larger role as stewards. By thinking local, we can make choices that have dramatic impact on our local communities, economies and environments. The Ourlando movement encompasses far more than just our local indy businesses; it promotes and unites our diverse art, music, recreation, and health and wellness communities and, most importantly, engages our citizens with pride of place. Julie Norris is manager and co-proprietor of Dandelion Communitea Café, founding board director of the Progressive Local Alliance for Community Enrichment (PLACE) and serves on the boards of Slow Food and Mills Fifty Mainstreet. More on her ventures at www.dandelioncommunitea. com, www.frontporchradio.wordpress.com andwww.ourlando.com. Please see Julie’s ad, previous page 30.

4. Invest in the Community. Local businesses are owned by people who live here, work here, and are more invested in our future. 5. Embrace What Make Us Different. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of our community. 6. Put Your Taxes To Good Use. Local businesses in neighborhoods need comparatively less infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services as compared to nationally owned retail stores entering the community. 7. Get Better Service. Local businesses often hire people who have better understanding of the products they are selling, and take more time to get to know their customers. 8. Buy What You Want, Not What Someone Wants You To Buy. A marketplace of tens of thousands of small businesses means low-prices over the long-term. Small businesses choosing products based on what their customers love and need, not a national sales plan, guarantee a more diverse range of products. 9. Create More Jobs. Local businesses are the largest employer nationally and create more stable employment. 10. Encourage Local Prosperity. In an increasingly homogenized world, people are more likely to invest in or move to communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and unique attitude.

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

Petals of Transformation An Ongoing Series Exploring the Healing Benefits of Flower Essences by Shinah B’nai More alternative therapies and remedies are being used than ever before. Why? We desire deeper levels of physical and emotional well-being without the unknown or harmful side effects of many prescription drugs. And likely, the most prescribed for and least understood conditions are our complex human emotions; especially those left unresolved lingering deep within our psyche. Then, one day, the body reminds us of what the mind has long forgotten — triggering stress imbalances such as headaches, digestive disorders, chronic illness, cancer, even ADD, addic-

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tion and depression and more. That’s the holistic connection. Flower Essences are natural remedies which stimulate awareness and healing of these buried feelings in a way that is both simple and amazing. It is with great reverence for the perfection of nature that we will explore a different Flower Essence in each issue of Velocity and its unique healing qualities to expand your awareness, inspire your thoughts and uplift your spirits.

Mariposa Lily

Mariposa is considered the “Mother” of all the lilies in Flower Essence therapy. She is divinely feminine in her pristine white trio of petals that form the gentle chalice-like receptive center of golden hues. She is the soft song of creation that emerges from the granite rocks high in the Sierra Nevada mountains with grace and vigor, marking her healing nature. Mariposa Lily is an important remedy to those who have experienced distant or unhealthy bonds with their mother. While our birthright is to receive maternal love and nurturing, many situations deprive children of this experience. Extensive daycare, financial hardships or stressed working mothers, divorce, abuse, neglect and even adoption can

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

imprint deep wounding in the subconscious, subtle or severe. An unexplained emptiness or feelings of being unloved or abandoned register deep in the psyche and as it has been shown in quantum physics, the actual cells of the body. As young children, these internalized feelings are often reflected in fears, tantrums, separation anxieties, neediness, colic, asthma and more in an effort to communicate what they feel yet don’t understand, easily misinterpreted by parents. School age issues manifest as the angst roots deeper where behavioral medications are often prescribed. As the hidden pain lingers, a distorted maturation into adulthood occurs. Those adults who feel alienated from their own mothering instincts or feel hostility in relationships with females suffer in a way we seldom understand. Mariposa Lily soothes and nurtures the spirit with its warm, loving essence, healing past wounds by cultivating the feminine qualities of mercy, protection and forgiveness. A most essential Flower Essence, indeed! An eight year old girl we’ll call Sara had a difficult premature birth and had to be in intensive care for days without her mother before going home. Sleepless nights with colic and crying spells were common as an infant and toddler. At five, her parents divorced and she moved to another city with her mother who worked two jobs to support them. Sara soon developed irrational fears and would never sleep without her mother for the next several years. While at school she worried that something bad would happen to her mom and had difficulty focusing on her schoolwork. She went to a therapist yet the fears escalated into compulsive fears that robbers would come at night and try to kill them. Her mother inquired about Flower Essences and Sara was given Mariposa Lily for several months as the fears gradually subsided. She was taught how to calm herself into sleeping alone with soothing music and a night light. She was never given any medication and now does very well in school. Flower Essence can be taken with any medications. The only side effects are transformation! Learn more about Flower Essences at Shinah B’nai’s website: www. illumin-essence.com. Shinah B’nai is an authorized Flower Essence Practitioner and member of The Flower Essence Society. Since 1995, she has been using Flower Essences to assist in healing emotional issues and health imbalances of children, adults and pets. She is also a licensed massage therapist and Thai Yoga therapist (MA39336). Contact her by calling (352)250-1038. Please see ad previous page.

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

Earn Income In Advertising Sales Serving the Greater Orlando Area Contact Velocity’s Publisher 407-454-3443

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began advertising they were made from recycled materials.

by Joanne M. Keller, ARNP

Funny how we have gone back to the way it was when many of us were kids. Yet now it seems so different. My children do not remember a time without a microwave, a dishwasher or computer. They wouldn’t dream of wearing their clothing twice or only washing their hair once a week. They are learning about going green in school and at home out of necessity for our planet’s health.

Do you remember when the Green Revolution officially began? Think about this for a moment. Which was the first company in your neighborhood to advertise that they had “gone green?” When was the first time you were asked whether you wanted to save a tree by agreeing to receive your bank statements, credit card and utility bills via e-mail? I’m a mere 45, but it seems like yesterday when my mother would rinse out plastic bags and hang them to dry so we could reuse them. Aluminum foil was used and reused. Paper plates and paper cups were reserved for picnics. We used paper grocery bags to cover our schoolbooks. Baby diapers were cloth and secured with safety pins. “Hand-me-downs” were a big deal, and birthdays and Christmas were the only times I received new clothing. Our family learned recycling and conservation at an early age as members of the “clean plate club,” never wasting food because somewhere “children were starving.” We rarely threw anything away. We saved newspaper and magazines to later wrap gifts or fragile items, or to do what I loved most: finger-painting or papier-mâché art projects. It seems to me that I grew up in a form of a green revolution way back then. Fast-forward ten to twenty years when out of the blue came disposable everything. Baby diapers were disposable. Everything was made for one-time use: Microwave bowls, paper plates, plastic water and soda bottles — all disposable and plastic. Next came the recycling craze when landfills overflowed. Glass, paper and numbered plastics, newspapers and magazines were to be recycled. Magazines and newspaper, even toilet paper,

Recently, while talking on the phone with my brother, George, I learned of a creative way that he and his Ocala neighbors have joined the Green Revolution. Art, who lives across the street from George, receives the daily newspaper, reads it and does the crossword puzzle. He then takes the paper to my brother’s home. George soon reads it and then walks it next door to a Canadian couple who reads it and then puts it in the recycling bin. I laughed and thanked him for sharing his story and prompting this article for this issue’s Green Revolution theme. (I also promised him my copy of this magazine to share with his neighbors!) Imagine what a powerful change will be created when every one of us does just one thing, daily, toward saving, conserving, recycling, or re-using the earth’s resources! Won’t our Mother be proud? Joanne M. Keller, ARNP is a registered holistic nurse practitioner treating and coaching families, especially women to prevent sickness and remain well. Please refer to Joanne’s ad, bottom of column 2, preceding page 34.

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

Child Psychologis Serendipitous Exp t’s erience Helps Her Relate to Children with Special Health Ne eds

tacy Carmichael, Ph.D., was the go-to babysitter for parents of children with special healthcare needs in her hometown of Sibley, Iowa, population 3,000. Today Dr. Carmichael works as a clinical child/pediatric psychologist at Central Florida Psychological Consultants, Inc., with offices in Leesburg and Clermont. “I double-majored in biology and psychology, which provided me an understanding of the integration of genetics and environment, and how the two interact to help shape a child’s development and behavior.” While attending Buena Vista University she had the unusual opportunity to meet Dr. Joseph Matarazzo, one of the founders of the fairly new field of ‘health psychology,’ who directed her toward a prestigious doctoral program in Clinical and Health Psychology at the University of Florida. Something ironic — or perhaps serendipitous — happened when Dr. Carmichael was a fourth-year graduate student. Inspired by female mentors successfully juggling motherhood, marriage, academia and a career, she gave birth to a son, Jaden, now nearly nine. “I noticed the warning signs of autism while he was a very young infant: lack of eye contact, no babbling/cooing, no reaching/gesturing, unusual staring at objects in the environment, no pointing, and delayed skills in general.” Although autism and related disorders are now an area of specialization for Dr.

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Child psych

ologist Dr.

Stacy Carm ic

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Carmichael, she recalled at that time that autism had been covered by one chapter in one book she had studied about child psychopathology. Still, Dr. Carmichael knew early intervention would be crucial. She became Jaden’s advocate. He saw a pediatric neurologist at six months and began occupational, physical and developmental therapies at seven months. “My experience working with children with special healthcare needs and their families was much more experiential than I had intended it to be,” Dr. Carmichael said.

nga with h

er son, Jaden

, 8, in thei

r home.

It has allowed me to connect more with parents of children with special healthcare needs, particularly devel-

Mental health warning signs in children and adolescents • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness with no reason frequent anger, tears and overreaction inability to recover from the death or loss of a loved one having unexplained fears or extreme fearfulness frequent feelings of worthlessness, guilt, anxiety or worry constant concern over physical problems or appearance feelings of being controlled or out of control declining school performance loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities unexplained changes in eating or sleeping patterns avoidance of family and friends hearing voices that cannot be explained having suicidal thoughts inability to focus attention or sit still worry over being harmed or harming others racing thoughts too fast to follow persistent nightmares obsessive washing, cleaning or performing some other routine many times daily drug or alcohol use binging and purging obsessive dieting or exercise lack of regard for the law and rights of others fire setting killing animals risky behavior

“I’m blessed that he chose my family to join. He’s delightful and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Source: National Mental Health Information Center

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

opmental or neuropsychological difficulties including autism.â&#x20AC;? In 2003, Carmichael earned a Ph.D. in clinical psychology with a concentration in clinical child psychology. She has had the opportunity to develop and expand a psychological practice for the evaluation of children coping with a variety of issues, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, learning disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, adjustment to chronic illness and social skills problems. Her practice includes children ages two to twelve, and Carmichael estimates she spends about half her time performing evaluations and half providing therapy. About 40 to 50 percent of the children Dr. Carmichael sees have neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism, developmental delays and cerebral palsy. 80 percent of the children with neurodevelopment disorders which Dr. Carmichael treats also have feeding disorders, which she is knowledgeable in treating. A large majority of her patients have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or other behavioral issues, and 25 percent have learning disabilities. The remaining children have adjustment disorders which may arise during life events such as divorce, grief, low self-esteem, lack of social relationships or abuse. Adapted from an article originally published by Libby Keeling / Courier Press; Press staff writer (812)464-7450 or keelingl@courierpress.com. Dr. Carmichael works at Central Florida Psychological Consultants, Inc. with offices in Clermont and Leesburg, Florida. Please see ad top of next column.

Velocity Magazine | Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s A Green Revolution! | March â&#x20AC;˘ April 2009

As the sun moves through the water sign of Pisces (Feb.19-March 19), it is a time to allow our imaginations to create a vision of what we wish to manifest during the growing time of Spring. Observe your thoughts and quickly catch any worries or doubts. Change them to the most positive you can imagine. Reflecting on the past is okay, but only if it assists you in finding clarity and direction. Use the time around the full moon of March 10 to obtain insight and guidance for moving forward. Pay attention to your deepest desires. Allow yourself to focus on them and to feel the joy of truly manifesting your dreams! You have the power to do so, but you must believe it and do it!

ARIES (March 20-April 19) Time to clean out the closets as you move towards your birthday. Notice any doubts, worries or issues coming to the surface. Take care of them now! They are part of the clean out process. Yes, you have dealt with this “stuff” before. Be patient with yourself. Take care of business one day at a time and prepare for a wondrous year ahead. AFFIRMATION: It is safe for me to release what I no longer need. I step into a new year of hope, abundance and joy!

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) The challenges of the past year have pushed you to a new place of confidence, inner strength and empowerment. Congratulate yourself! You have moved through so much, especially limiting beliefs about yourself, your abilities and who you truly are. Continue to grow in the awareness of your beautiful inner spirit. You are a “Light” that shines bright for all to love and admire. Don’t doubt! Just be who you are! AFFIRMATION: I AM Light! I AM full of Light! Light is all that I AM.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) Keep your heart wide open to yourself! When challenges arise, bless them, forgive yourself and move on. Be gentle with yourself! Allow time for rest and quiet. Spend some time each day outside in nature. The early Spring breezes will rejuvenate your spirit! AFFIRMATION: I AM Love! I AM full of Love! Love is all that I AM!

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CANCER (June 22-July 22) Create! Create! Create! — in whatever way you wish — with your hands, words or thoughts. Tap into your imagination and let it run wild. Rejoice in the beautiful, creative spirit that you truly are! AFFIRMATION: I AM creating my wonderful life! I fill it with love, abundance, inner peace and joy!

LEO (July 23-Aug.22) Don’t take things so personally. Instead, try to look at an issue from the broader perspective. When you do, you may realize it has nothing to do with you! Let it go and take care of yourself. What do you want to create for yourself? Focus all your attention on that and watch it manifest! AFFIRMATION: As I focus on my dreams, doors open and I am at peace.

VIRGO (Aug.23-Sept.22) Focusing on the positive part of a challenging experience can assist you in negotiating your way through it more easily. See the positive and see the joy in all that occurs around you. It is all part of our journey. Good or bad/right or wrong doesn’t matter as much as how we choose to move through an issue or situation. We always have a choice. Let your choice be joy! AFFIRMATION: I AM joy! I AM full of joy! Joy is all that I AM!

LIBRA (Sept.23-Oct.22) Slow down! Take time to smell the roses, or the coffee, if you prefer! You are moving through an intense time of your year. Be aware of challenges,

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

On March 21, the sun moves into the fire sign of Aries (March 20-April 19) and we move into the season of Spring, a time of new beginnings and new growth. Allow the fiery energy of Aries to propel you forward on your path. Around the full moon of April 9, ask for inspiration and guidance in seeing the larger picture that is unfolding in our world. Each one of us has an integral part to play as we move towards global Oneness. What might your role be? Perhaps feeling peace in your heart and enjoying the moment is your task. Try it and see how you feel!

tension and sudden changes. Breathe, ask for guidance and stay present to the moment as much as possible. Be open to inspiring ideas and possibilities, especially around the Aries full moon. AFFIRMATION: One day at a time, one step at a time, I move forward supported by the Earth beneath my feet and inspired by the Light flowing through me.

SCORPIO (Oct.23-Nov.21) It is all about timing — Universal Timing, that is! Let go of any shoulds or expectations. Allow life to unfold one day at a time. Be present to the moment and be thankful for your blessings. Trust that all things happen when the time is right! AFFIRMATION: All is in Divine Order. One day at a time my life gets better and better! I AM grateful!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov.22-Dec.21) You have been thinking about it for a while and now is the time to put your ideas for taking care of yourself into practice. Establish a healthy routine or strengthen your present one for selfnurturance including regular meals, exercise and relaxation time. It will be easier to do now and once established will help you maintain your center more easily. Gather your tools (yoga, prayer, meditation, time in nature, etc.) and create a foundation now that will be there for you when you need it. AFFIRMATION: Each day offers me opportunities to stop and reconnect with my inner spirit. That connection sustains me through all I encounter. I AM blessed.

CAPRICORN (Dec.22-Jan.19) As you establish a firm foundation for the year ahead, be true to yourself above all else! Be honest about what you want and need in your interactions with others. Set healthy boundaries when you feel stressed, used or drained. Your experiences and challenges will assist you in aligning more completely with your inner truth. AFFIRMATION: It is safe to ask for what I want. It is safe to set healthy boundaries for myself. It is safe to be me!

AQUARIUS (Jan.20-Feb.18) The first three months after your birthday are a time to set the foundation for your year ahead. Be in gratitude! You have encountered many challenges, worked hard and have grown. It has not been easy but you have rallied, done the work and are moving into a whole new sense of who you are. Affirm your joy, love, abundance, gratitude — whatever you wish — as you step more confidently into your true self! AFFIRMATION: I AM grateful for all my experiences. I accept and embrace a whole new sense of who I AM!

PISCES (Feb.19-March 19) Take good care of yourself. Listen to your body. Get plenty of rest. Spend some time alone outside in nature. Do whatever you wish to nurture and rejuvenate yourself — body, mind and spirit. As you end and begin a new year with your birthday, it is a time of letting go and also renewal. Allow it to happen by supporting what your body tells you. You will be glad you did! AFFIRMATION: I love and appreciate myself. I listen to my body and allow it to guide me to serenity, renewal and joy!

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

Secrets from Soulmates Arielle and Brian by Arielle Ford and Brian Hilliard

BIG L©VE

Dear Arielle and Brian: I have been in a relationship for nearly five years. I feel very safe, comfortable and care deeply for this person. He loves me unconditionally and he is there for me more than anyone I have ever been with. The problem is that I don’t feel like he is my “soul mate.” How do I know if he is the ONE? - Thanks, Virginia First of all Virginia, we would like to take this moment to really honor what you’ve manifested in your relationship over the last five years with your partner. Those wonderful attributes of safety and comfort are extremely nourishing and extremely rewarding. And for you to care for somebody as much as you do and to have somebody LOVE you unconditionally are a blessing and certainly a solid foundation for a LOVING relationship. To assist you with your question, “How do I know if he is the ONE?, we would ask you to please shift your attention and feelings to your heart regarding yourself and your partner. If it helps, focus your breath and the experience of something or someone you feel infinite love for into your heart for ten seconds or so and then send that love, care and appreciation to yourself and your partner (The Institute Of HeartMath refers to this effective technique as Heart Lock-ins). This will add buoyancy and regenerative energy to your entire system as well as to allow you to get in touch with a perspective of greater clarity and expanded awareness. Now, if you’re comfortable, please look and “feel into” your partner as “Soul” or as some might refer to as “essence.” With this deeper recognition we have a unique opportunity to realize (and feel) that our relationship can potentially be unconditional and limitless. Connecting with each other’s Soul or essence gives us the sacred opportunity to reveal our deeper selves and therefore communicate our deepest fears and insecurities to each other. Communicating those vulnerabilities from our hearts feeds us, supports us and nurtures our ability to love our partners and ourselves more than we ever imagined. It will also help you (with honesty and courage) to look at the possibility that you have projected your own fears, judgments and unfair demands and expectations onto the relationship. If you have found this to be true please be easy and gentle with yourself but use that reservoir of love you have been building up through your Heart Lock-ins and direct that frequency of love to dissolve those energies around your fears and anxieties as well as “take out” some of the significance of those judgments and any feelings of anger and despair if that might be weighing you down. You might begin to see the issues and dynamics impacting your relationship in a different light and therefore respond quite differently to each interaction or potential conflict. There is a good chance you could even see your partner in an entirely different light as well----maybe even as THE ONE!!!! Romantic Soul Love is the doorway through which we can become bigger—our lives, our laughter, and most definitely the LOVE the two of you will share. But wherever this sacred journey takes you we only wish for you Big, Big Love. Every once in a while take your wonderful guy by the hand and let loose with some big FUN----you might even consider “Dancing Under The Stars” or “Taking a Walk in the Rain”--however daring you want to be just hold onto each other’s hands and dive into the infinite “Ocean of Love and Mercy” with this beautiful guy and commit to open up your heart a little more every step of the way and see what happens!!! Something in the process might just shift and you could find yourself in the grips of “BIG LOVE.” - Arielle & Brian Disclaimer: Arielle Ford, Brian Hilliard, the Big Love column and its publishers assume no responsibility for any consequence relating directly or indirectly to any action or inaction you take based on the information, services or other material related to this column.

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Arielle Ford has spent the past 25 years living and promoting consciousness through all forms of media. She is one of the founding partners of the Spiritual Cinema Circle, a DVD club dedicated to providing movies about love and compassion. She is the author of seven books including the series, “Hot Chocolate for the Mystical Soul” and her newest book, “THE SOULMATE SECRET: Manifest The Love of Your Life With The Law of Attraction.” Her husband and soulmate Brian Hilliard is a business consultant with a life-long interest in spirituality and the practice of compassion. They live in La Jolla, California. Visit www.soulmatesecret.com

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

e seem to be in quite a fix nowadays. Our climate is changing as the atmosphere is heating up. We are fighting two wars. Our economy is in turmoil and most are stressed to the max, feeling helpless and negative about the future. The price of gas went up then down. No one knows why and most believe it will go through the roof again. There seems to be great uncertainty and fear all around. Even with the excitement of a new president and change ahead, most seem to feel we have an almost insurmountable task ahead and it will take a long time for us to recover. Taking better care of our environment seems to be a necessity today. Many of us are joining in on recycling, buying more from green companies, maybe even going solar or buying carbon offsets as our contribution to saving the planet. All these and more are beautiful ways to contribute and may help ease our conscience and sense of helplessness. Is this, however, how the planet will be saved? Is this the change we are being asked to make or is more required of us on a deeper, more personal level? I was watching a tribute to George Carlin who had this incredible way of making us look at our world with different eyes, to step outside ourselves and really see what we were doing. The show played a clip of his routine about ‘stuff’ — how much stuff we have, how we have to protect our stuff and have big places to store the stuff. It was hilarious yet so telling about our need to have, save, store, protect and get more and more stuff. George, as he usually did, got me thinking. Is greening what we buy and what we do enough to save the planet? Is there something deeper in us that we seem to feel needs satisfying by having more stuff or that is fulfilled by bringing a little green into our world? What keeps us needing more? Why do we feel jealous for what others have? What is lacking inside us that we need more stuff to make us feel better? What are we afraid of losing? Why are we so stressed? Why aren’t we at peace?

It seems that when we buy into the fear around us and the need to possess more, we lose a sense of who we are. We can feel powerless and overwhelmed as we look for things or solutions outside ourselves to pacify the turmoil. In order for us to feel truly at peace there is an important understanding we must embody: Accept all that is. Regardless of what comes into our sphere, accept it because it is just what has happened. If we react from memory of our experiences of the past we will come from a place of reaction, fear and judgment. This is coming from a posture of control where we, indeed, have no control. This doesn’t mean to never do anything. We just don’t take what comes personally. If we first let go of our attachment or fear of the outcome we find ourselves coming from a much deeper and more powerful place. Our choices for action come not from our ego, but from a deeper, more connected place. This state of being brings peace and, surprisingly, a sense of joy followed by a deeper ability to know what the correct action is, if any is to be taken. Greater levels of creativity come from going deeper within rather than reacting from fear, guilt or selfish need. All is in divine order. No matter how crazy it all seems, everything is under control and it is all there for a reason — a reason we may not know or be able to comprehend, yet. As we embody these ideas we become more in touch with our true Selves. We become more intuitive and better able to respond to all the world places in our path. There is a higher purpose and it is all for our greater good — even all the seeming chaos around us now! Dr. Vil-Am Ben-Ahim has been a Chiropractor for 29 years using craniosacral and deeper energy techniques to help people get to and release the seed concepts and fears that have led to their physical and emotional pain. He conducts seminars and workshops based on these empowering ideas and is co-director with his wife Yashoda Yehudit of the YAHWEH Academy of Light, A Healing Arts School in Central Florida. Please see ad page 2.

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

The first annual North Central Florida Holistic Healing Conference and Expo presented by AlternativEducators, Inc. will be held on April 25 and 26, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Florida School of Massage located at 6421 S.W. 13th Street in Gainesville, Florida. The conference will be open to all who are looking to increase their understanding of holistic healing modalities. The conference is also designed to benefit healthcare professionals seeking to obtain as many as 18 continuing education credits. The conference will bring together over 30 expert practitioners from Central and North Central Florida who will present workshops on a wide variety of topics including chi gong, cosmetic acupuncture, yoga, aromatherapy, tranquility meditation, breathwork, thai massage, pilates, the use of crystals and stones in healing, mens’ work and many more. Massage therapists, clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, mental health counselors, midwives, dieticians and nutrititionists will be able to enrich their practices with the Conference’s exciting roster of classes. Paul Davenport, Owner and Director of the Florida School of Massage, will be the featured keynote speaker on Saturday morning. His address entitled, “The Parable of the Perfect Candelabra: Empowering Individuals in Health Care, Education and Business,” will be a wonderful entry to the day where participants will attend workshops, learn more about alternative and holistic modalities and interface with other professionals. On Sunday, David Bole, Ph.D., A.P., a Buddhist Lama and practicing acupuncturist will present, “Developing Compassion and Loving Kindness Is Our Practice,” as keynote speaker. David is an interesting and captivating speaker who integrates his spiritual practice into his life and work.

Awaken Your Own Inner Healer AlternativEducators, Inc. Presents The North Central Florida Holistic Healing Conference and Expo

“Awakening the Inner Healer” A business expo will run perimeter to both days where holistic practitioners and businesses will be offering their literature and unique items for sale. Local artists will display their finest work in the conference’s art exhibit. Attendees will also have the opportunity to enjoy an evening of music on Saturday, April 25 when a live concert will be presented. To learn more about the North Central Florida Holistic Healing Conference and to register, visit www.AlternativEducators. com. Participants may attend one or both days of the conference. The cost is $250.00 for the entire conference and $125.00 for one day with a $25.00 discount for early registration on the two-day conference when registering by March 16. A student discounted rate for the two-day conference of $195 (with valid student ID) is also available. The Saturday evening concert admission is $10. The general expo is free to conference participants and $5 at the door for the general public. Interested visitors are urged to register now as space is limited. Please call 1-877-5ALT-EDU or 1-877-525-8338 or email jill@alternativeducators.com. AlternativEducators, Inc. offers fascinating seminars in holistic medicine and healing to professionals who are required to fulfill their continuing education credits and for the general public seeking to learn more about holistic medicine. The Florida School of Massage (FSM) has 35 years of experience providing massage education as a vehicle for personal growth and empowerment, cultivating compassionate touch in a nurturing community experience. FSM provides a safe space through massage therapy to assist students and clients to become happier, more integrated human beings. Please see full size ad page 3.

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Protecting Our Vibration with Christ Love Divine

216.888

by Rahansia P. Ben-Mejuri

Those of us who do energy healing work very frequently often encounter harmful lower frequency energies. Not only can these energies take residence in our auric fields, they can even enter the body and create pain or sickness. We healers must learn to become aware of these possibilities and become adept at protecting ourselves from these energies.

As our own light intensifies, we become more attractive to these denser, lower energies which may even work to keep us from moving forward to even higher levels of light. Some may be so virulent they drain us of our life force and may cause us to have debilitating thoughts that are truly not our own. By learning to become sensitive to these energies we can take care of them as soon as they try to enter our auric fields. Prayer cannot be overestimated in keeping our personal vibration high. A most high vibrational prayer to protect ourselves from lower parasitic energies is: “216.888 Yod.” 888 is known in sacred geometry as the number of the Christ Consciousness and 216 is the mathematical construct for unconditional love. Yod, though the smallest letter of the Hebrew alphabet, represents the Divine in action. I consciously chant this phrase until my auric field feels completely clear. It assists me to hold my own frequency of light until I can move these energies out. I used this prayer successfully to release a particularly strong dense energy which took hold in my body and had landed me in bed. After many hours I was free of it, though exhausted. It was the first time in all my years as an energy healer that I actually thought about giving up healing work and I share this only to impress upon us all the vital importance of using our spiritual tools on our own behalf in healing work. At other times we just need a vibrational lift. Perhaps we have been feeling negative emotions such as anger or sadness. “216.888 Yod” can bring us immediate upliftment, making us feel lighter, happier and clearer.

Another Prayer from the Brotherhood of White Light Kodoish Akadoish Adonai 888yod888 Adonai Vamvere Zohar Elohim 888yod Kaballa Vamvere Alpha Kodoish Omegas Kodoish Yod Hey Vav Hey

Rahansia P. Ben-Mejuri is a licensed massage therapist (MA12828). She is a practitioner of energy healing and clearing, color light therapy and aura balancing. She offers healing classes and may be reached at (352)735-6842. Please see ad for Marble Table Healing, page 45.

tuning in with Margie Gray When I wrote my master’s thesis, I knew the topic was important to me. I also felt it was an important subject for everyone. “Embracing Free-fall: Welcoming Change and Transformation,” is a theme for us all right now. Whether we are renegotiating and refocusing our businesses or lives due to the economy or simply witnessing the significant moment in history initiated by the election of our new president, we know that this is a time of free-fall, of not knowing with certainty what is next. The key to moments like this is to be open to possibilities AND to recognize opportunities as they present themselves.

As we embark on this phase of the journey, I encourage you to focus your energy on what is possible. These affirmations and ones like them may support you in that process. I am committed to looking at my life with fresh eyes and clarifying my purpose in this life, so as to open the space for new and unexpected opportunities NOW. I am committed to focusing on possibility and opportunity and taking committed action to support my ultimate goals NOW. I am committed to working WITH the flow of my life in order to increase the flow of opportunity in my life NOW. I am committed to BEING my contribution in the world in whatever form is useful NOW.

As I write this, I am embarking on my own change. When I opened the space for new opportunities in my own life, it required fresh eyes to consider possibilities that were unexpected, to say the least. I will be relocating to Fargo, North Dakota at the conclusion of the Spring semester at Lake-Sumter Community College, where I am a Psychology instructor. It is an exciting adventure. I will continue to be part of this community through the good work at Velocity as well as through coaching long distance. I tell you this to express how deeply I believe and embrace the philosophy that I use to encourage you in your life journey. Tune in to free-fall and see where it leads you. Margie Gray has a Masters Degree in Transpersonal Psychology with a focus in Authentic Leadership. She is a personal coach and business consultant. She can be reached at 352-552-2080. Please see ad, page 15.

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

the lotus consciousness

Stepping Out of the Drama of Life

ecently I spent time with a friend who, a few days previously, had experienced a traumatic interpersonal and intrapersonal event. A few hours into our day he expressed that he felt that, for the first time since the episode, he was “stepping out of the drama of what happened.” This caused me to reflect on my own absorption in life’s drama, and on the distinction between living life and living in the drama of life. Of course, life has its natural adventure, full of color and emotion. I distinguish this from “drama,” in the sense of something external to the stuff of life itself. We cling to drama in a shadow attempt to experience the richness and excitement of living. In distancing himself from the whirlpool of the drama, my friend described a significant shift of experience, from lamentation to genuine compassion for all involved, himself included. He was able to see lucid spiritual purpose and practical lessons for his growth as a person behind the unfolding of events. He also realized the extent to which he was invested in continuing the drama, to get payoffs such as attention, sympathy, feeling right, and an excuse for not courageously moving forward with life.

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Bhagavad-gita, one of my favorite books of wisdom, describes the lotus consciousness, where we are in the world though not influenced by the drama of it, just as the lotus is in the water though simultaneously untouched by it. This state of being is free from lament about the past and hankering for a particular future. Fully present in the present, we live with a sense of urgency. Urgency does not mean crisis, nor panic and anxiety. It is living in the moment (not for the moment) — a constant commitment to creating life-enriching value. This lotus-like state evinces caring non-attachment. To the extent that we cultivate such a way of being we empower others to rise above the fray on the dramatic stage, and connect with the true life of the self. This shift of consciousness represents genuine spiritual progress, as we identify ourselves as the spiritual entities we are, transcendent to the physical, mental and intellectual platforms. It would be a misconception to think that such a drama-free paradigm is dry or empty. In fact, such a misunderstanding of the reality of spiritual existence is why many people hold on tightly to the

ephemeral drama, thinking it essential for a sense of vitality. Actually, authentic spiritual experience is sublimely diverse, alive and vibrant, the pure form of what we seek without fulfillment in preoccupation with dramas. In fact, Sanjaya, the narrator of Bhagavad-gita, described it as a “thrill at every moment.” Let’s consider in what environments, and in which relationships, we tend to be living life, and where we tend towards enacting a drama. With such awareness we can notice the difference in experience. From there we can choose increased living, and decreased drama where we think that it will serve us and others. David B. Wolf, Ph.D., is a life skills coach and communications specialist, a highly sought-after teacher and speaker, and the author of “Relationships That Work: The Power of Conscious Living” (Mandala Publishing, 2008). As part of his doctoral studies he developed the Vedic Personality Inventory (VPI), a personality assessment tool based on Vedic psychology. He has more than twenty-five years of professional experience in a variety of social and mental health fields. See Dr. Wolf ’s ad for Satvatove Institute next page.

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

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Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

here is an ultimate point of balance in the continuum of selfworth that I’ve dubbed “Green Esteem.” In my coaching practice, I introduce Green Esteem to encourage my clients to become aware of their intrinsic values, to reclaim the value of their being and to recognize what they do, or own, is an “outgrowth” instead of a “source” of value.

Counseling and other modalities began my healing process, but it wasn’t until I received coaching that I consciously recognized and released the belief that my value existed somewhere other than inside me. Ann Emerson, founder of TheHarmonyProject.org and the Sanctuary of Sophia in Mount Dora, Florida explains, “As we find a deeper understanding of the richness of who we are, we will relinquish the need for approval from others, and learn to forgive our past errors. We cannot grow without taking risks, and in those risks there are errors made. That is the human condition. We become inner directed, not outer directed.” The benefits of recognizing this concept and releasing my old beliefs have been tremendous. I realized many possessions were no longer necessary in my life, and released them. As I released the physical “stuff,” I could feel the weight lifting, spiritually and emotionally. The full realization that my value exists in my own “being” allowed me to make changes that altered every relationship in my life: with money, clients, family, friends, the Divine and, most importantly, with myself.

Discord in self-worth often leads to acquiring objects and behaviors intended to garner admiration. Suffering from extremely poor self-esteem for much of my life, I carried literal truckloads of my past with me with every geographical move because I believed those objects represented me. I bought property because I subconsciously believed that what I owned reflected my value. I kept up a host of behaviors, not because they were heartfelt, but because they were expected. Embracing our own Green Esteem, we are It all created tremendous disharmony. able to unload the baggage we have been taught signifies achievement and to realize

that loving who we truly are is the very essence of success. We no longer need to have more; we simply need to be in the highest form we are able to be in, in the moment. Living and loving as our highest self allows us to literally reduce, reuse and recycle the trappings of life. Our needs are fulfilled inwardly. We suddenly are able to live in harmony with the Universe, instead of being at war with the Universe, our self and each other.

elcome to living where less really is more. Less materialism allows more freedom. Less striving brings more joy. Less attachment allows more flow. Releasing additives allows for purity across all planes, mental, physical, emotional and spiritual. Releasing hollow symbols allows room for that which is solidly Divine. Welcome to living in Green Esteem. Your questions, comments, suggestions and thoughts are always welcome! Contact Joanna Hackley Davis, Certified Life Coach at 352-874-7817 or 352-4830000, Joanna @Rx4Joy.com or by visiting www.Rx4Joy.com. Joanna has been practicing healing arts for over 30 years as a licensed massage therapist, certified personal trainer, licensed esthetician and certified hypnotist. She also practices spiritual

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

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Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

that? That has nothing to do with you. That is the Law of Cause and Effect in action, not the Law of Attraction.” The idea began to redirect my scattered and battered thoughts. Dr. Markson continued, “If you observe an accident, you have nothing to do with being the cause of it! That would be so ecclesiastical!”

The Cause Clause

Understanding what is truly our responsibility gets heavy at times, like last night. It felt cumbersome to assume so much responsibility. And the same misunderstanding plagues many of my friends and colleagues!

n New Year’s Eve I was in Miami’s South Beach anticipating a starry night, fireworks, and a festive mood. I retired early and drifted off to sleep as 2009 was marked with colorful fireworks in the black velvet sky over the Atlantic’s beach front. It was 4:00 a.m. when I awoke with a terrible jolt. I listened, heart pounding, to the cries of someone in the next room. A dominating and malevolent male voice pounded out commands as a woman’s voice called out for help. “Please, somebody…He is strangling me. Help, oh God, someone please HELP me!” My mind raced. I called security and it seemed to take forever for the police to arrive. While I sat in the safety of my dark bathroom I shook with terror for the woman. The physical violence was palpable, and the torment made me nauseous. I decided to pray and hold a meditation of peace for the couple. It was extremely difficult to hold a positive mindset in that dark bathroom but I held it anyway. In the morning I could not shake the terrible experience. My mentor, Dr. Larry Markson, was driving me to have coffee and discuss his book on self-talk. I rattled off the story to the only man I jokingly call my guru. “Why did I attract this?” My uncertainty was evident in my shaky voice. We drove along in his big white Mercedes Benz as he listened to me pour out the litany of last night’s abuse. I repeated, “Why did I attract that?” Dr. Markson then stated as clearly as his unwavering eye contact, “You see those cars in the other two lanes?” I nodded as he continued. “If those cars get in an accident, do you think you caused

Markson then spoke of the movie, “The Secret,” whose principals are many of his friends. “You are mistaking the Law of Attraction for the Law of Cause and Effect. The Law of Attraction is subordinate to the Law of Cause and Effect. And unless you think a lot about violence, which I am sure you don’t, the situation last night was not something you attracted.” My mind flashed back on last night and how the only thing I had actually been a cause in was to call the police and to pray for the situation to be healed. My thoughts crystallized into clear understanding. “Are you saying we may observe ‘bad’ things that have nothing to do with us, that it only involves us as far as our reaction to it?” He confirmed with a nod. “So to be the cause in our life comes from our thoughts, and our concerted actions have an effect?” I reasoned. Dr. Markson intensely stated, “Yes, it is always Circle-Circle.” My mind flashed on a diagram he had designed that showed this cause and effect or Circle-Circle concept. It showed a circle that contained the words ‘Right Intention’ inside it. This circle was connected by another circle containing the message, ‘Telling the Truth [Yields ]Your Experience.’ (Right intent plus ensuing integrity action are a match to create success — Diagram 1. Right intent plus ensuing non-integrity action are not matches, therefore failure is the result —Diagram 2.) “Circle-Circle!” I repeated, mesmerized by the simplicity of how we become CAUSE by Right Intent. Ramah Wagner, D.C. is a third generation chiropractor with degrees from the University of Iowa and of South Dakota. She received her graduate degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic (the founding college of chiropractic). Watch for Dr. Ramah Wagner’s new book, “The Health of Business - How to Balance Your Life for Greater Return.” Dr. Ramah is available for speaking events and intensives. Visit www.doctorramah.com and please see Dr. Ramah’s ad previous page.

ner, DC g a W h a m a R y b Editor h t l a e H g in t Contribu Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

we make earth-friendly choices for ourselves, we can do the same for our pets. Below are eight simple ways to become greener pet owners, because we not only love the environment, we love our pets, too. 1. Choose a ‘Recycled Pet:’ Adopting a pet from an animal shelter or rescue program cuts down on the demand for breeding, and helps animals that have already been born find good homes instead of being destroyed. 2. Throw in the Towels: Instead of throwing old towels and blankets into the trash, give them to a local animal shelter. Some shelters will accept donations of used books, clothing and other items that can be resold to raise money for running the shelter. 3. Get Green with the Poop: Use biodegradable bags instead of placing pet waste in plastic bags. If you have a yard, there are doggie septic systems that break waste down to be absorbed in the ground. Cat owners can now find ecofriendly litter that does not contain strip-mined materials. 4. Groom Green: All-natural pet grooming products are available. These chemical-free shampoos will make your pet happier and healthier. Save energy by not using a blow dryer, allowing your pets to air dry. 5.

6. 7. 8.

Serve Natural Treats and Eats: Organic or natural pet foods and treats are now available in specialty pet stores. Or try making your own. Know the ingredients of your pet’s food. Most rawhides and pig ears have been bleached or coated with harmful chemicals. Instead, look for natural treats and organic catnip. Buy Better Toys: Organic cotton or hemp toys, collars and leashes are now available. Avoid cheaper plastic toys that are made in China and may possibly be tainted with lead. Provide Sweet Dreams: Earth-friendly pet beds are now available. Most are made of organic cotton with safe dyes and filled with stuffing from recycled plastic bottles. Spay and Neuter Your Pets — Always: Your pet will a live longer healthier life, behave better, and will not add to the millions of pets that are euthanized annually or suffer as strays. It’s better for the entire community — whether or not you have fur.

Copyright 2008 “Healing For Pets & the Special People Who Love Them.” All rights reserved. Content may be reproduced in whole only by special permission of author. *We recommend that all health issues be discussed with your veterinarian, and that your pet have a thorough examination by a qualified veterinarian.

Colleen M. Gordon is a pet communicator, pet reiki/massage therapist, and herbalist. She is president and founder of Healing For Pets and is committed to improving the health and the lives of pets and their owners. Colleen has been helping pets and owners with behavior and health issues for over ten years. Visit www.HealingForPets.com, email Colleen at: healingforpets@yahoo.com or call (407)446-4315. Please refer to ad this page.

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Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

The question you have been asking is being Divinely answered for you now.

Card Three Traveling (Upside Down)

Card One Guidance

Card Two Mind (Upside Down)

Allow your Angels to clear away the debris caused by fears of the unknown so that you may know the voice you hear within is divinely guided. It urges you to be the most magnificent version of yourself. Others will feel they or you are out of your mind. It simply is a result of being forced into your right brain or your heart feeling center. Our left brain will be unable to think its way out of these new times. Everything that used to be normal will now be different. It’s like using an old computer program to do something entirely new and different. It just can’t. This is inescapable; wherever you go, these new times exist. Stay put and go deep into your heart space and ask: What have I been curious about learning, doing, experiencing? Woodworking, gardening, canning, teaching, nursing, etc? What do I have that I can trade? What skill can I share or barter? Remember to listen to your Angels for guidance.

Wanda Baruch started reading cards for her great grandmother when she was three, using her solitaire deck to tell “stories.” Usually they were about dead people she knew as a child. Later she could see and hear things about any name given to her. Wanda has made intuitive service her profession for the last 16 years. She has studied Quantum physics, String and Brane Theory extensively. Please refer to Wanda’s ad below.

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or years we’ve been tracking the effects of global warming and the increase of global dust. We’ve found that the increased dust acts as a carrier for industrial pollutants like arsenic, mercury and others, and as a carrier for bacteria, virus and fungi all over the world. The combined effects of this are increased respiratory disease, more allergies, and weakened immune systems. And, I’ve recently been told by field veterinarians working for the government that my bad news is not as bad as their bad news: Underground lakes of Dioxin are contaminating most of the ground water in the U.S., Europe and Asia, and the halflife of these chemicals is between 1,000-10,000 years. There is a global mass extinction of species going on. Part of the problem is a lack of understanding about the severity of the problem and how it affects individuals and whole societies. Another is that many of us feel impotent to do anything to affect a change at the higher levels of industry and government. Some people believe the whole mess is hopeless and give up. But we can’t just quit. This is Mama Earth we’re talking about! It’s time for a Green Revolution! This can be a grassroots movement that addresses the earth’s problems. We, the people, must organize and lobby local, state, federal, global governments to swiftly and effectively: Spread the word and educate people about the severity of the problem of industrial and agri-

Viva la Green Revolution! by Albert J. Nuñez, DVM, CVA, Contributing Spiritual Life Editor

cultural pollutants and what’s at stake personally, socially and globally. Set up monitoring of the different ground, water and air contaminants, then organize the national and global data. Publicize this information and inform people of their local, regional and global status. Establish research and development of technologies to clean up the current mess and keep industry from creating new messes. (I’ll personally be submitting a few ideas about developing technologies for using bio-filters, and the use of polarized light and sound to alter or filter air pollutants.) Create jobs and infrastructure conducive to clean living and manufacturing processes. Create incentives for green and clean-up technologies and industries. The most important part of our Green Revolution is for us to get organized and work collectively to implement changes. Join an existing lobby group or organize one of your own. We all must become such squeaky wheels so that the government and industry know that our environment is important to us.

hen feeling hopeless, we can all pray for Divine ideas and a positive outcome. We can work from a feeling of gratitude for what we do experience that’s good, and feel grateful that we can serve the earth and its inhabitants in this time of need. By rendering selfless service to the earth and its inhabitants, hopelessness is replaced with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. In the meantime, I’ll clean the organic coffee stain out of my locally made tie-dye shirt with eco-friendly soap. Is there anybody out there listening? If so, do something! “Que Viva la Green Revolution!” Albert J. Nuñez, DVM, CVA has owned Animal Hospital of Baldwin Park and of Lake Mary since 1995 where he has practiced integrative veterinary medicine combining cutting edge surgery, internal medicine, endoscopy and laser ultrasound with acupuncture, herbal and energy medicine and nutrition for dogs, cats and exotics. He is a graduate of St. Thomas and Ross Universities and the Chi Institute of Veterinary Medicine. Please refer to ad previous page.

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

by Tamara Overlee

The Presence of Equality v d an e r l a s t i n g

The absence of peace grows daily, and happiness seems to be a rare, treasured moment rather than a daily part of life. What has happened to the feeling of strength within that emanates self-worth and confidence, and gives an overall sense of wellbeing? Why does fear of what tomorrow will bring dominate the calmness of one’s mind? How can we as a nation, as a caring people, help those less fortunate in seeing them through their difficulties so they, too, can be prosperous? When we think about these questions, solutions do not come easily. For this great dilemma to be resolved, an earnest commitment made by all individuals could be a choice. Yes, everyone could do their best by contributing to this urgent cause. Greed, power, hatred, and control must be diminished so that love, truth, honesty, humility, and gratitude will rise and create a force that will only strengthen and heal our world. When this happens, all mankind will unite as one in peace and equality. All souls must look at one another with love in their heart, with the wisdom that no one is better than anyone else — that all are created equal in the eyes of the God force of life, the pure goodness of life. Let this begin now, for there is not one moment of time to waste. The world lies in such disarray and to question why is not necessary any more. We, as a strong nation, must pull all resources together and follow through with our plans. No one is to be singled out, to be left alone, for compassion must be enduring for all those who require assistance. Yes, there are many programs that have begun in the past and present, but then why are so many still without the two necessities of life — food and shelter? Why are there so many who endure pain and suffering, and feel the extreme feelings of loneliness? Ask yourself, how would you feel in the same type of dilemma? We must arrive to the advancement of our wisdom and our true knowing that we are all connected as one. This is what makes up our world, all the unique individuals with all the diverse characters who are to be blessed, each and every one! A soul is a soul, an essence of purity. There are no two alike. How wonderful for all of us to know that we can learn from one another as we keep in mind the

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words, “value,” “respect,” “honor,” and “cherish.”

Place yourself in a room filled with laughter and joy, with all the support of family and friends. How glorious this can be when the heart is light and exhilarated because of shared happiness and peace! How simple to just be in the midst of love and caring! Healing of the mind and soul takes place in this moment of time, for love that is unconditional, that embraces acceptance of all souls, is what we should all strive for. Honesty, the divinity of life, can be revealed constantly — to show the true self without any fear. Truth, simple and to the point, can be expressed so that the burden of lying does not place any hindrance or confusion in the mind. Yes, how wonderful to feel balanced with these three elements of life, and then the benefits will be humility and gratitude. The strength of character of all individuals will stand up and be straightforward with true integrity and will not assume or analyze the possibility of attracting those who may not be in favor of their ideas, for all will be welcomed. There will be no ego involved and no preconceived ideas will be formed, for the mind will be open to hear all that is being said. Friendship will begin, and then the gratitude for this beautiful union will unfold. To be in appreciation and truly feel grateful to learn from all souls and all situations of life is a blessing to behold. Constitutional reality, the five elements: love, truth, honesty, humility, and gratitude are revealed in this room of friends and loved ones. The virtues of life: kindness, compassion, generosity, self-worth, selflessness, patience, faith, humility and gratitude are the ingredients of love, and they, too, are shown in this special room. Allow them to be a continuous development of the soul that will grow stronger and stronger each day. Practice and embrace them, and just when you think you have achieved the five elements and virtues of life, expand on them even more.

P e a c e

Remember these special words and place them within your mind, your heart, and your soul: Love is life that oversees the virtues of all souls as being equal. Today, this very moment, let us embrace this way

Continued on page 56

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

SUGGESTED READING Author Diane MacEachern’s message in Big Green Purse: Use Your Spending Power to Create a Cleaner, Greener World is simple but revolutionary. Women have the power to help solve the environmental crisis — and protect themselves and their families, too. Women spend $.85 of every dollar in the marketplace. “Women have a whole planetful of power in their purs- Avery/Penguin Group New York es,” says MacEachern. “When they use it $17.95; 411 pages to buy green, they force manufacturers to ISBN 9781583333037 make products that reduce pollution, slow global warming, and eliminate dangerous chemicals.” Big Green Purse targets 25 commodities where womens’ dollars can have the greatest impact, highlights “eco-cheap” strategies to save money but still live and shop green, suggests simple and quick lifestyle changes to benefit the environment regardless of how much money we spend and more. Fun and entertaining to read, Big Green Purse is a call to action. Brides and grooms are increasingly spending their wedding dollars on environmentally friendly products and services. Wenona Napolitano’s The Everything Green Wedding Book: Plan an elegant, affordable, earth-friendly wedding, teaches happy couples how easy and affordable it is to choose a stunning environmentally Adams Media friendly location, create beautiful invitaAvon, Massachusetts $15.95; 289 pages tions on recycled paper, find the perfect ISBN 9781598698114 eco-fashion, enjoy a gourmet organic caterer and find the right romantic honeymoon retreat. This fun, informative guide provides all the steps to a beautiful wedding — without leaving a footprint! Having weaned themselves completely from fossil fuels in their conventional 1930s urban house, Stephen and Rebekah Hren provide a map for others to do the same in The Carbon-Free Home: 36 Remodeling Projects to Help Kick the Fossil-Fuel Habit. The Carbon-Free Home shows first how to reduce energy consumption, Chelsea Green then to retrofit existing homes to obtain White River Junction all heating, cooling, cooking, refrigeration, Vermont $35; 260 pages hot water and electricity from renewable ISBN 9781933392622 sources. The authors also provide advice on sustainable, low impact methods of transportation and home gardening. Many of the practical approaches are suitable for

renters as well as owners and fit anyone’s budget. Rebekah works as a professional designer/installer of photovoltaic and domestic hot water systems. Stephen is a professional restoration carpenter and teaches natural building classes and workshops at his local college. How does one survive — much less get ahead — in what analysts are calling America’s most dire financial crisis since the Great Depression? The answer lies not with ‘financial experts’ but in the age-old wisdom of the greatest motivational writers of all time. How to Prosper In Hard Times gathers the works of renowned thinkers like Napoleon Hill, George S. Clason and James Allen, among others, into a singu- Tarcher/Penguin Group lar volume that specifically addresses our conNew York temporary challenges. These works resonate as $12.95; 255 pages strongly today as when they were first written, ISBN 9781585427550 and offer readers solutions, ideas and fresh starts. As someone who didn’t meet her soulmate until the age of 44, Arielle Ford became somewhat of a heroine for single women. She began to get so many questions about how she met and married her husband Brian that she decided to share her secrets in The Soulmate Secret: Manifest the Love of Your Life with the Law of Attraction. Ford, the woman who helped launch the careers of HarperOne Deepak Chopra, Neale Donald Walsch and San Francisco California Jack Canfield, shows readers how to take con$23.99; 208 pages trol of their romantic destinies. Finding true ISBN 9780061692376 love is possible for anyone at any age if you’re willing to prepare yourself — on all levels — to become a magnet for love. The reader will learn exactly how to use the Law of Attraction to manifest his or her soulmate. Buddha for Beginners by Steven T. Asma, Ph.D., is an iconoclastic, illustrated tour de force through the life of the Buddha. This theological tutorial is presented with humorous illustrations and a witty sensibility that entertains readers as it educates. Constructed like a graphic novel, Dr. Asma cuts through the New Age nonsense that is often mistaken for Buddhism in a manner that is both perceptive and passionate. Buddha for Beginners excels in engaging the reader without alienating the true principles of Buddhism.

Hampton Roads Charlottesville Virginia $15.95; 162 pages ISBN 9781571745958

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

Reclaiming Our Role in the Garden

by Kathy Ford

arth is unique, a treasure, a one-of-a-kind, just like each of us. She is beautiful, stunning in grandeur and diversity, and home to countless citizens of which you and I are just a small part. Copernicus revolutionized the world view of his day by declaring that the earth was not the center of the Universe. So, too, must we now see that humanity is not the center of the universe, either. In the past, man’s compulsion to modify the environment has blinded us to how much we have placed the entire web of life on the planet (including ourselves) in jeopardy. But now, through research and the efforts of many organizations and prominent leaders, we do know and can no longer ignore the consequences of our past actions. According to the ancient texts, mankind was created to be the gardeners, the stewards and caretakers of this beautiful planet. It didn’t take long for us to be metaphorically thrown out of the Garden. Since that time, at some deep level, we have yearned and ached to return. The truth of the matter is that we never really left. The Garden is all around us, waiting for us to reclaim our role, waiting for us to choose to become, once again, the caretakers and gardeners who protect, respect and nurture all life. Every living thing deserves to have an environment that assures its continuity and well-being. Every living thing is vital to the overall health of the planet.

Continued from page 54 of life and be a part of history, a part of all the changes that can and will occur. We can be a people of wisdom who will wholeheartedly take the responsibility of securing a nation that is filled with enduring peace and the presence of equality, for this is the way that we will truly heal our precious, yet faltering world. Each and every one must feel the connection to every living thing. We must embrace our ideas for change and follow through with meaning and purpose as we triumph over all challenges with our unending will and determination. God speed and good blessings to all. To receive more inspiration similar to this and on many subjects, please see Tamara Overlee’s ad on page 3 for her book, “The Truth of Life From the World of Love and Spirit” — a true inspiration that encourages all mankind to unite as one within love, truth, and honesty. To place an order, visit www.joyofhealing.com or call 813-480-2759.

ome say that all forms of life possess consciousness, that the plants, trees, rocks and even the planet herself are alive and aware. If this is true, then it is imperative that we remember how to communicate and partner with nature to reestablish balance and harmony for all. With common agreement and intent to think globally and to embrace all life we may be greatly surprised at how quickly and easily balance is restored. I believe that the earth herself will conspire with us to bring about the best possible solutions for all life, if we but ask for her assistance. We have the greatest opportunity of all time before us. I pray that we tap into our greatest potential and vision, reclaim our responsibility for the Garden and help each other as never before. Kathy Ford intuitively creates vibrant paintings and murals for businesses and individuals. She works one-on-one and with groups, teaching the art of expressing something deeper than technical competence, of painting the visual expression of feelings, emotions and intuition. Visit www.KathyFord. com. Please see Kathy’s ad page 45..

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Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

Many holistically aware people who are committed to personal growth and planetary well-being find it particularly difficult to become non-smokers. They find it hard to reconcile their intellectual beliefs with the undesirable habit which manifests itself in cravings for cigarettes. The result can be both the continuation of the smoking habit and a sense of guilt, failure and low self-esteem. One man who came to me to quit smoking was strongly committed to holistic living. He felt ashamed that he was stuck in the tobacco habit despite the healthy changes he had made in other areas of life. My first task was to transform the “energy” consumed by that shame and channel it in a positive direction. Rather than be ashamed of

smoking, he recognized his power to learn differently. I helped him use his practice of Buddhist meditation to detach himself from conscious awareness and gain a “distance” from the smoking habit. In this resourceful state, his unconscious learned to become a non-smoker. I showed him how to use that same technique daily to create the calm and controlled state that would keep him a non-smoker permanently. The first step in enabling smoking individuals to become non-smokers is to recognize that every problem was once a solution. Teenagers and young adults are ready to try anything as they form their own identity. Young people often see smoking as a way of becoming “part of the gang,” rebelling against authority, and appearing attractive, “cool” and sophisticated. Smoking “works” from that point of view.

How Holistic People Can Quit Smoking for Good by David Botsford

FREE AT LAST!

mokers today are often treated as pariahs. They are forbidden to smoke in restaurants, offices, retail premises and other peoples’ homes. They incur social disapproval — particularly if they are parents. They can face discrimination in the workplace, not least because employers’ insurance costs increase with every smoker in the workforce. As a result, smokers often feel badly about themselves, ashamed that they are trapped in the habit, yet at the same time enjoy the guilty pleasure. This can lead to inner conflict. The smoker consciously knows the dangers and the desirability of quitting while the unconscious mind remains trapped in a behavioral pattern which often began in the teenage years.

When such a person chooses to quit smoking, the hypnotist’s role is to access the resources which that individual possesses at an unconscious level. The unconscious mind creates associations by metaphor — one thing is comparable to another. By drawing on the client’s ideas about responsibility for personal, community and global well-being, the unconscious mind can be encouraged to develop an equal commitment to the health benefits of quitting smoking. The desire to protect the earth from pollution can be compared with the desire to free the body from nicotine. It is also vital to educate the client about how to stay a non-smoker permanently, despite stress, arguments, socializing with smokers and other challenges. If such an individual already practices some style of meditation, that can be utilized as a means of remaining a non-smoker. David Botsford is a hypnotist with 15 years’ experience. He is the author of the book “Hypnosis for Smoking Cessation” and has produced a series of selfhypnosis CDs. He is teaching a smoking cessation workshop (March 18) and a weight loss class (April 15) at the You Health Center, Orlando. His websites are www.4cornershypnosis. com and www.selfhypnosiscd.com. Please see ad left, page 54.

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

What’s Life Without Music? Reviewing the Latest in Great Music by Purusha K. Radha

New Release

“Thunder Love;” Artist: Jai Uttal; Nutone Music; Genre: World; Release Date: March 24, 2009 He’s done it again. Jai Uttal has created another masterpiece in “Thunder Love,” but this time with a slightly different approach. Yes, the Sanskrit chants are woven throughout and you’ll find yourself singing with Jai in no time, but the English lyrics are compelling and the orchestration excites with the use of many instruments including guitar, banjo, bass, dotar, harmonium, keyboards, violin and harmonica. Jai Uttal demonstrates in this album his prowess as a songwriter. Nutone Music calls “Thunder Love” a blend of Americana, roots, jazz, Brazilian and electronic music, but I have to say songs like “Hanuman’s Heart” take me back to the 70s. (I guess it’s that Brazilian influence which popped up so much back in the 70s and does in this track, too.) Spectacular choral singing on “Let Me Be Sky” and “Adonai” swoops down like a powerful breeze, picks you up and carries you effortlessly through the light charged air. There’s just so much heart and feeling on this album. “I feel like this album is about opening up to love — finally,” Jai says. “That involved letting go of a huge part of me that said ‘I don’t deserve love,’ or on really bad days, ‘love doesn’t exist.’ For me, it’s taken big catharses to change those deep internal patterns. I’ve immersed myself in a great number of spiritual practices, but truly embracing human life…that’s what brought me through the times of terrible darkness and addiction.”

Moments of stillness, wailing, dramatic strains, thumping percussion, and the beguiling voice of Jai Uttal as he calls out to his Maker for help are masterfully united in several enchanting stanzas in “Down On My Knees.” This riveting track pulls us in, opens our hearts and reacquaints us with our own personal love affair with our Creator. Exceptional.

New Release

“Within My Walls;” Artist: The Idan Raichel Project; Cumbancha Records; Genre: World; Release Date: January 20, 2009.

The track on this stellar album that grips me the most, though, is “Down On My Knees.” With incredible and ardent passion and imagery, the Divine devotée listener will identify with the spiritual struggle of which Jai Uttal croons...

Out of Tel Aviv comes a message of love and tolerance from The Idan Raichel Project, a group of eight musicians and singers from Israel, Uruguay, Sudan, Iran, Ethiopia and Iraq. Though the Project has no leader, it was conceived by Idan Raichel in 2003 in the basement of his family home. Each member of the Project “brings his [her] own vibe.” “I don’t see them as coming from Uruguay, Persia or Iraq. They are all my friends,” says Raichel. In a short time, The Idan Raichel Project has rocketed to stardom on the world music scene playing at such venues as the Apollo Theater, New York, Central Park Summerstage, New York and the Kodak Theater, Los Angeles.

The train left the station with two lights on behind the blue one was my soul and the red one was my mind and I’m down on my knees — cryin’ for freedom down on my knees beggin’ for freedom, beggin’ for freedom Om Namah Shivaya

The incredibly soulful, “She’eriot Shel Ha’Chaim” (Scraps of Life), sung by Amir Dadon, the haunting “Ôdjus Fitxadu” (With My Eyes Shut), sung by Mayra Andrade and the title track, “Bein Kirot Beiti” (Within My Walls), performed by Aidan Raichel himself, leave us wanting for more of the ten other tracks on this dazzling album of tunes that radiate vibes of love and peace all over the world. A must buy for world music lovers.

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Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

There have been some wonderful films lately that have looked at those of us who present what we might call our “wounded” face to the world. People who seem angry, self-absorbed, and/or unapproachable. “Gran Torino” and “Ghost Town” both illuminate the pain, sadness, and vulnerability that lie just beneath the surface of those wounded faces and personalities. Now comes the perfectly titled “Happy-Go-Lucky” so that we can see the polar opposite of that wounded face. In “Happy-Go-Lucky,” the enchanting British actress Sally Hawkins plays Poppy, a schoolteacher who always wears a smile. Even when her bicycle is stolen early in the film, her response is not one of anger, but one of wistfulness. “Oh, dear. I never got to say good-bye,” is her only comment. Throughout the film, Poppy has a smile, a giggle, and a laugh for everyone with whom she comes into contact. Her friends rely on her to bolster their spirits, as do her co-workers at the elementary school where she works. And she doesn’t disappoint them. Even when she throws out her back and, in pain, has to go to a chiropractor for an adjustment, she never stops smiling. Poppy is an adventurous soul as well, willing to try new things on the spur of the moment. In the most hilarious sequence of the film, she decides to learn how to be a Flamenco dancer and gets a surprising and uproarious lesson in “claiming your space” from the teacher. Underneath the fun of this sequence, however, lies a poignant and important metaphor for Poppy. When you are so unrelentingly cheerful in the world, do people just take you for granted? Do you disappear because you are never needy? As in, “Oh, Poppy, she’s fine. She’s always fine.”

What lies at the core of Poppy? Is she really that happy or is she hiding a deep hurt, the effects of which she seeks to avoid by putting on a happy face? That’s the conventional wisdom, isn’t it, about people who go around seemingly happy all the time? They can’t really be that happy, can they? What dark secret lurks in their depths that, unleashed, would make those “wounded” faces look mild by comparison? In Poppy’s case, the answers are simple: yes, she really is a happy person. Imagine that! As a teacher, Poppy reflects her sunny disposition with her pupils but she also recognizes a child’s emotional pain in the form of a student who is afraid to go home. When she has to be serious, she embraces that role with love and compassion as well. Sure, Poppy has her share of issues just like everyone else, but she really does look at the bright side of life and, as a result, it’s her happiness that rubs off on others, not their misery that rubs off on her. Poppy’s biggest test in that regard comes in the form of a driving instructor named Scott. Brilliantly played by Eddie Marsan (whom you may recognize from “The Illusionist”), Scott is yang to Poppy’s ying. Pompous, impatient, and judgmental, Scott is so seething with rage that he finally explodes. The final sequence between them is electric and compassionate. “Happy-Go-Lucky” is a small, charming, eccentric gift of a film from British filmmaker Mike Leigh. It reminds us that happiness is a choice. We choose the lenses through which we experience life. Poppy chooses the lightest lens she can find on any given day and that’s a wonderful message for all of us. Stephen Simon co-founded www.spiritualcinemacircle.com. He produced “What Dreams May Come” and “Somewhere In Time” and directed and produced the film version of “Conversations With God.”

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

The green revolution has received a lot of hype recently. I have lived on a farm in the country all of my life and I know that green living is a lifestyle, not a war we must fight. In fighting for the rights of the trees and animals we only create a worse situation, because in fighting we give power to the situation.

am not suggesting that we stand back and accept what we are seeing. But as witnesses of these times, we must accept that all life forms are the same: illusions created by the spirit world. And as real as it may seem, the plight we are facing is not a plight at all; it is an illusion created by us so that we can learn about responsibility and unconditional love. As witnesses, we are not accepting or judging, we are learning and mastering ourselves from within, and the changes we make within will change the illusions that we are manifesting outward. Humans love the drama and games we play in this world of form; this is our entertainment. But the more we can refrain from playing these games, the quicker we will come to the realization that we are the only players.

s a martial artist I have competed many times and this has taught me a valuable lesson about competition: when you get into the ring there is only one person there, and that is yourself. So the competition is always with yourself, and with a different aspect of yourself.

s r e t s Ma the of erse v i Un by Rev. Donna Weinheimer

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The big question is not how do we save the planet, but what are we trying to show ourselves? What is the lesson we need to learn, and what changes do we need to make within ourselves for our spirits to evolve? To see change, we must change and become masters of ourselves, and to become a master we must first eliminate the fear of extinction. Extinction of the human race is impossible. We are infinite beings and could never become extinct, just like the animals, plant and minerals; they, too, are of spirit, and therefore infinite and not headed for extinction. We must master the life lessons we are here to learn. All of them hold keys that unlock the door that allows memories rushing in of who we truly are:

Masters of the Universe! Rev. Donna Weinheimer is a licensed massage therapist (MA27125, MM12675) and ordained ADL minister. She holds a third degree black belt and is a Tae Kwon Do and Chi Gong instructor. Donna is also certified in Thai Yoga Bodywork, native hot stone massage, breema bodywork, shiatsu, tui na and shamanism. See ad for ‘Out of the Blue,’ next page.

Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

e, in the Golden Triangle Center for Spiritual Living, believe it is our responsibility to be conscious stewards of the environment and preserve the sanctity of Creation. We envision a world that has a renewed emphasis on beauty, nature and love. Almost a decade ago, representatives from our individual spiritual communities met at our annual Gathering of the United Centers for Spiritual Living and established a policy statement to guide all of our Centers in greening their communities. Some of these policies include: • • • • • • • •

placing recycle bins in conspicuous areas; replacing incandescent bulbs with low watt fluorescent; having live plants in the buildings; maintaining insulation and weather stripping and installing solar wind alternatives, when possible; creating a meditation garden; encouraging car pooling and riding bikes to our center; including songs that celebrate nature into our services; addressing environmental stewardship from the pulpit.

rnest Holmes writes, in his classic text, “Science of Mind: ” “Spiritual wisdom says that God manifests through everything; that all is Divinity and that Nature Herself is the Body of God.” In the Golden Triangle Center for Spiritual Living, one of our Spiritual Principles is accountability which means each one is responsible for their thoughts and actions. In choosing our new space, we were delighted to discover it is an eco-friendly building! We encourage honoring the environment in our beautiful space by keeping it clean, recycling whenever possible, preserving energy, celebrating that ‘all is Divinity and Nature Herself ’ and participating in many more green activities. All are invited to visit the Golden Triangle Center for Spiritual Living to enjoy a nature-friendly space filled with loving, joyful, and caring individuals. The Center is located at 2130A Prevatt Street in Eustis, Florida. Please see ad, left. The Science of Mind: A Philosophy, A Faith, A Way of Life. Ernest Holmes. 24 August 1998. Tarcher Putnam. Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

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Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine

Velocity Magazine | It’s A Green Revolution! | March • April 2009

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Central Florida’s Premier Holistic, Green, Conscious Living Magazine