Transformation Coaching Magazine May 2020 by Transformation Coaching Magazine

INSPIRATION & GROWTH Every Cloud has a Silver Lining A New Perspective Enjoy the Many Benefits of Greater Reality Living A Chance Encounter Live More, Worry Less Butterfly Wisdom Make the Connection Think Small Listen In

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FEED YOUR SPIRIT Am I Spiritual Enough?

PUBLISHERS Natalie Rivera Joeel A. Rivera, M.Ed.

EDITOR Lisa Cedrone

CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Bryan Hawley, Arielle Giordano, Mark Pitstick, Jo Mooy, Rena Greenberg, Terez Hartmann, Linda Commito, Monica Canducci, Gregg Sanderson, Mary Boutillier

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Every Cloud has a Silver Lining

Our personal relationship to change can either make us feel threatened or fulfilled. By Dr. Bryan Hawley As many people shelter in their homes faced with quarantine restrictions around the novel coronavirus, I am reminded that the only thing that is constant in this world is change. Just a few months ago, I would not have envisioned being confined in my house due to a global pandemic. Nor would I ever have thought that toilet paper would be in short supply (brother, do I miss two-ply). So how can we adapt to change and learn from the times that we are now in? It is our personal relationship to change that can either make us feel threatened or fulfilled. We either look at change as expansion, growth and lessons shining back on ourselves, or we view it from a loss or victim relationship. Many have lost their jobs, loved ones, homes and/or a host of other things at some point in their lives. Looking back over my own lifetime, I will admit that many of my personal breakthroughs have come about because of what many would call a loss. However, I only classify my hardships as losses if I fail to learn the lessons from the experiences or don’t find the beautiful silver lining behind the cloud. It reminds me of the “Serenity Prayer:” God grant me the serenity To accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can; And wisdom to know the difference. This offers us profound guidance—especially that last line: “And the wisdom to know the difference.” Awareness is one of the main ways to understand the difference between the things that we can

change and the things that we cannot: awareness of everything that is within us; awareness of everything that is outside of us; and our ability to step back and witness the dynamic exchange between these two worlds. Most of our fear and anxiety come from our interpretation of those things outside of us. Sure, we may not be able to change the external world, but most of the time it is our interpretation of it that affects what happens inside of us. Many of our fears and anxiety will never come to manifest, yet, due to our internal interpretation of them, we can actually cause physical symptoms of dis-ease to manifest such as stress, anxiety, fear, and a host of other physical reactions that do us no good. The part of change that we control is our perspective, which means how we process the events that are unfolding. When we become aware of this, we then can start to influence the environment around us. And we can accomplish this by monitoring what we think, what we say and what we do from the vantage point of our highest Self. When we see the big picture, the harshness of change softens, and others around us will pick up on the vibe. As we progress though the emergence of a new world after this pandemic, let’s make sure that we are monitoring our interpretations as they unfold—that we are expressing our actions from our higher Self’s perspective, not from a place of fear and lost faith. We are all in this together, and we are all going to witness this new world unfolding before us. We will have the opportunity to help shape this world and to help guide those who are struggling to adapt to change and loss. Now is the time when you are most needed to share your light and your wisdom.

Listen for Your Calling with Dr. Bryan Hawley Dr. Bryan is a published author, national speaker, and personal growth consultant. He also owns an online digital marketing agency and has created a simple online course on digital marketing to help other coaches, and authors break out into the world and reach audiences. You can find out more on his website http://www.drbryanhawley.com or email directly at info@drbryanhawley.com.

A New Perspective

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How to reframe our thinking around a crisis. By Arielle Giordano The coronavirus pandemic is a worldwide opportunity to realize more of the truth within. In this extreme event, everyone has an invitation to relate to something deeper—an offering to connect on a level other than fear and survival. Instead, we can focus on going within to find hope and help inspire others. A global event such as this triggers a response in the body linked to survival, and, if we can take the energy of the fear generated from our survival instincts and redirect it, we can accept a universal invitation to feel and think at a higher level of consciousness and to open our hearts to know a deeper perspective. This means that our experiences are not ruled by what we feel and think. We begin to be present in our thoughts and feelings in a way that is deeper than what we are used to experiencing.

This new depth does not have anything to do with our past experiences. As you drop deeper within, wisdom and goodness arise. No matter how we are affected on the surface in our lives, there is an unusual opportunity to develop an inner life that is not dependent on what we gain or lose in the external world. This is also an opportunity to learn self-care and reframe our thinking. Here are four steps you can take right now: 1) Practice social distancing for the benefit of others. Standing farther away from people does not mean that you care about them any less. Actually, it means that you care more because you are protecting yourself as well as them. 2) Move more, stress less. Physical activity helps to flush disease from the lungs and airways. Exercise reduces stress and causes changes in antibodies and white blood cells, which

are the body’s immune defense system to fight viruses and bacteria. Stretching and strengthening the muscles stimulates the powerhouse of the cells—mitochondria—creating more energy in the body. Do the activities you enjoy and keep moving, whether it’s dancing, stretching, walking in nature, biking, etc. 3) Watch your diet. Eat whole plantbased foods with vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients to fuel and protect the body. 4) Relax, sleep and create quiet time. Get rest, relaxation and good sleep every day. Enjoy spending quiet time connecting in your heart to your deeper self. These are simple measures to alleviate stress, rebalance and recharge your health and well-being. Reflect and listen to the quiet voice of truth that you know in your heart.

Dancing from the Inside Out with Arielle Giordano Transformational Life Coach Award-Winning Author & Speaker, Professional Dancer. Arielle’s Award-Winning book for Best Self-Help Award: Dancing With Your Story From The Inside is available on http://www.Amazon.com. Her professional career includes the Lead Faculty Area Chairperson and Professor for the College of Humanities, History and the Arts at the University of Phoenix. She is a published co-author of Transform Your Life Books 1 & 2 and author for Tampa Bay Wellness, Conscious Shift & Transformation magazine. She has published her 4th book, an Instructor’s Manual for Barlow Abnormal Psychology 4th ed. and authored Psychology, A Journey 3rd.ed. Study Guide published by Nelson Education, Toronto, ON. She has also studied philosophy at the College of Integrated Philosophy with John DeRuiter for twenty years. Arielle has been a featured guest on radio and television, in newspapers, and the media across the US and Canada. She is a certified Essentrics Stretch and Dance Instructor. Arielle offers coaching sessions, classes and workshops and a free 30-minute Consultation. Websites: http://www.dancingfromtheinsideout.com, http://www.ariellegiordano.com. Email: agbeautifuldance@gmail.com

Enjoy the Many Benefits of Greater Reality Living

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WHAT IS GREATER REALITY LIVING?

The term greater reality living describes how you might choose to live as you expand your awareness of reality, which is defined as the state of things as it actually exists. Because so much of reality escapes the five physical senses, you likely have viewed life as if through a tiny pinhole and then wondered why things don’t make sense. As the old saying goes, “There is much more to life than meets the eye.” If you are now inspired to expand your perception and take action in your own life, the Greater Reality Living model outlined in this series of Transformation Coaching articles provides a roadmap to: 1) Learn That Consciousness Survives Physical Death 2) Internalize This Great News 3) Vitalize Your Body, Mind and Spirit 4) Enjoy the Many Benefits of Greater Reality Living 5) Serve Others and Make the World a Better Place I designed this LIVES model to prepare people for optimal living after learning about the findings of Gary E. Schwartz, Ph.D., who directs the Laboratory for Advances in Consciousness and Health at the University of Arizona. He is a Harvard graduate, former Harvard and Yale professor, and author of nine books including The Afterlife Experiments and The Sacred Promise. I also started the nonprofit SoulPhone Foundation (http://www.SoulPhone.org) to help fund research and development for the SoulPhone Project. Depending on funding, a reliable and highly accurate SoulSwitch™ that provides yes/no answers from post-material (“deceased”) persons may be completed in 2020. An array of these switches can be used to produce a SoulKeyboard™ to enable texting and typing with them. This will greatly increase the quality and quantity of communication with postmaterial loved ones as well as scientists, inventors, and others who want to help us improve life on Earth. Replicated, multi-center, university-based scientific studies for the SoulPhone™ technology have now — for the first time in human history — definitively demonstrated that death is NOT the end of life.

Even though it may not seem like it at times, you r ear thly exper ience is a totally safe, meaningfu l and magnificent adventu re amidst eter nity. By Mark Pitstick, MA, DC

them it doesn’t happen. Once you see that, you realize you can never be separate from them. There’s a sacred Knowing that life doesn’t end conveys many ben- hoop that connects all of us.” efits, and realizing there is much more to life than meets We also now have extensive research on nearthe eye can improve every aspect of your life. In this ar- death experiencers who report that heaven and hell are ticle I will simply summarize 12 wonderful advantages states of existence, not physical realms where people go come from embracing the Greater Reality Living model: after they pass. Many thousands of people have reported life reviews in which they not only saw, but also felt 1. LESS FEAR ABOUT THE DEATH OF YOUR the good or bad they did to others. After their experiences, many of them felt that ‘heaven’ and ‘hell’ were best EARTHLY BODY AND LOVED ONES. understood as the aftermath of cumulative thoughts, Yes, the human body dies, but that’s a mere frac- words and deeds. tion of who and what you really are. I once interviewed the late Dr. Wayne Dyer, and I asked him: “What do you 2. YOU WILL SEE YOUR POSTMATERIAL LOVED tell parents with children who died?” He answered: “That there is no death; that’s not ONES AGAIN. a possibility. Our true essence is that we are spiritual beMuch evidence indicates that you can enjoy a ings having a human experience. Self-actualizing people wonderful reunion with dear ones after your earthly get over death almost as if it didn’t happen—because for body dies. Sources of this evidence include documented 9

near-death experiences, authentic mediums, and life between lives hypnosis regressions. Knowing you will see them again means that bodily death is not a goodbye, just a see you later. However, you don’t have to wait until your body perishes to enjoy a different but continuing relationship with your postmaterial loved ones. Many people have experienced meaningful visits with their family, friends, and pets who have changed worlds through spontaneous afterdeath communications (ADC); sessions with highly evidential mediums (see article #6 Evidential Mediums at http:// www.SoulProof.com) my facilitated ADC Technique (http:// www.SoulProof.com); induced ADCs (http://www.InducedADC.com); and the Psychomanteum Technique developed by Dr. Raymond Moody (http://www.LifeAfterLife.com). In addition, SoulPhone devices are expected to allow texting, talking with, and seeing postmaterial persons (PMPs). Visit http://www.SoulPhone.org and sign up for the free enewsletter to learn more and get updates.

3. DEEPER KNOWLEDGE THAT YOU ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF LIFE SOURCE. After an NDE, people often report: “We are each one with the One and part of Source.” Statements like this are especially impressive when reported by documented near death experiencers—those who perceived and accurately described details in and around the h ospital while clinically dead. As Joseph Campbell stated in An Open Life: “The divine lives within you. The separateness that is apparent in the phenomenal world is secondary. Beyond, and behind, and within and supporting that world is an unseen but experienced unity and identity in us all.” Ralph Waldo Emerson described finding cosmic oneness in nature: “I see all; the currents of the Universal Being circulate through me; I am part or particle of God.” I share these quotes to help you better understand the nature of “All That Is” and your inextricably interconnected relationship to It. If you don’t yet have a meaningful relationship with the “Ground of All Being,” spend time in meditation, nature, conscious breathing and prayer to calm your brain’s over-analyzing. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover that the Light is within and all around you.

With an enlightened viewpoint, every aspect of life—even the sad and difficult parts—can be seen as an opportunity to demonstrate your true nature. You can adopt the default belief that you have everything you need to survive and thrive no matter what life serves up. You can also choose to believe—based on good evidence—that Universe is totally supportive, fair and caring. Those core beliefs, in turn, engender greater faith, empowerment and positive expectancy.

5. MORE WISDOM ABOUT LIFE’S EXISTENTIAL QUESTIONS. Many people, especially during tough times, ask: “Who am I? Why am I here? What happens after I die? Why is there so much suffering? There are many interviews on this topic at http://www.SoulProof.com/RadioShows, but I want to answer one of the most commonly asked questions here: “Why would anyone choose challenges and tragedies?” Evidence indicates we may choose very temporary difficulties for many lasting benefits. From an enlightened perspective, pain and sadness are well worth increased personal growth and service to others. In addition, the quality of your life—both here and in the hereafter—is improved by upgrades in your consciousness. In Living in a Mindful Universe, Eben Alexander M.D. wrote: “Such events typically serve as catalysts for growth and learning. It is our chosen responses to such challenges that determine their ability to empower our growth.”

6. MORE CLARITY AND COURAGE TO FOLLOW YOUR HIGHEST CALLINGS. We each have special gifts to share, and life is so much more joyful and rewarding when we are contributing unique talents to the world. Some people mistakenly think their mission must be something superhuman such as single-handedly changing the world; do the best you can within your sphere of influence and know that is enough. Every day, ask the Universe: “How may I serve?” and then stay alert. Let your compassionate heart show you who needs help and how. And don’t forget to put yourself on the list of priorities.

7. TRUSTING YOUR INNER WISDOM AND 4. UNDERSTANDING YOU HAVE EVERYTHING YOU PERSONAL EXPERIENCES. Many people have profound inner guidance and NEED TO SURVIVE AND EVEN THRIVE THROUGH meaningful firsthand experiences that can inform, guide and LIFE’S TOUGHEST CHALLENGES. assist when developed mindfully. The key is discernment. You have no doubt heard or read accounts of people who triumphed despite facing seemingly insurmountable odds. These stories demonstrate what is possible under tough circumstances and provide a bigger picture perspective of how strong and capable we each can be. Helen Keller, who achieved great success despite being blind and deaf, said: “Life is either a daring adventure, or it is nothing at all.” 10

Your level of joy is one indicator of how much you remember to trust yourself. The word enthusiasm comes from en theos which means filled with God. You’re on the right path when you are truly happy. As Joseph Campbell put it, “If you follow your bliss, you put yourself on a kind of track that has been there the whole while waiting for you, and the life you ought to be living is the one you are living.”

8. ENHANCED PEACE AND ACCEPTANCE ABOUT LIFE’S CHANGES.

11. MORE AWARENESS OF AND GRATITUDE FOR HIGHER ENERGY ASSISTANTS/ASSISTANCE.

Life on earth can involve lots of difficulties, and— as I just pointed out in No. 5—before coming to earth, you may have agreed to the possibility of experiencing these difficulties. If that is true, your awareness also likely planned potential solutions for your challenges. The bottom line? You can’t always change outer conditions, but you can always control your inner response. You can choose to focus on peace, acceptance, joy, and finding silver linings to clouds that periodically form. But when unexpected outcomes occur, be flexible and trusting enough to roll with the punches and find the hidden blessings.

Many people have perceived guidance and help from what they consider to be evolved Higher Energy Assistants: saints, angels, guides and ascended masters are some of the names you might hear. These celestial helpers have also been reported during near-death experiences, life between lives sessions, past life regressions, sessions with authentic mediums and revelatory experiences. So how do you ask for help, become more aware of it and use it? One way is to use prayer, meditation, time in nature, and other centering practices to quiet your brain so you can hear wise responses from within and all around.

9. GREATER APPRECIATION FOR AND CARE OF YOUR BODY. You can be a bright light in this world—not just a flickering candle flame, but a floodlight that brightens everyone’s day. Optimally caring for yourself helps you do that. Wise people lovingly care for their human form and keep it functioning optimally for as long as possible. Then they lightly release it when it’s no longer needed. To strike a good balance live as though your human form will last 100 years, but occasionally live as though today will be your last on earth. You may have heard the old saying, “When you die, you can’t take it with you.” That’s true with a few very important exceptions. After your human form dies, you take with you the love, memories, aptitudes and degree of awareness that you gained. Your energy and consciousness are reflective of your cumulative thoughts, words and deeds.

10. LOVING AND MAKING YOURSELF A PRIORITY. You deserve to be loved, respected, and treated like the divine human that you are—and you can help the most people and make the biggest impact when you put your needs first. That doesn’t mean you only think of yourself, just that you put yourself on the VIP (very important person) list. I encourage you to love and serve others and also yourself. Doing so on a regular basis will allow you to bestow greater gifts to the world and enjoy a happier and healthier life.

12. EXCITEMENT ABOUT AN ETERNITY OF LOVING, SERVICE, ADVENTURE, GROWTH AND ENJOYMENT. Seeing more of life’s bigger picture doesn’t have to be described in religious or spiritual terms. You can be enthusiastic about understanding that your consciousness is part of One Mind. You can be positively giddy about comprehending that everything that ever has or will happen is stored as information and energy in a quantum vacuum. Knowing that your time on earth is like a totally safe and meaningful virtual reality experience could be the puzzle piece that allows you to be more enthusiastic.

Buckminster Fuller , the famous author , systems theor ist, and inventor , was asked for the most imp ortant message he could share w ith hu manity. He answered, "The Universe is fr iendly." Photo Credit: Unsplash/Javier Allegue Barros

Mark Pitstick, MA, DC is an author, master’s clinical psychologist, holistic chiropractic physician, frequent media guest, and webinar/workshop facilitator. He directs The SoulPhone Foundation and founded Greater Reality Living Groups. Dr. Pitstick can help you know and show—no matter what is happening to or around you— that your earthly experience is a totally safe, meaningful, and magnificent adventure amidst forever. Visit http://www.SoulProof.com for free articles, newsletters and radio interviews with top consciousness experts.

A Chance Encounter

We sometimes encounter people, even perfect strangers, who begin to interest us at first sight, somehow suddenly, all at once, before a word has been spoken.—Fyodor Dostoevsky By Jo Mooy The coronavirus and COVID-19 has kept us separated and at a distance from one another, especially in grocery stores. We walk the aisles, careful not to pass too close to other shoppers, or giving the aisle a wide berth if too many are standing in it. That separation is necessary to keep the virus from spreading. But the same separation removes a human link that can emerge when strangers come together in a chance encounter. Walking around the grocery aisles today, wary of each other, I remembered just such a chance encounter back in January. It was an encounter that left an indelible memory of a man I met. He comes to mind often because he was in his early 90s and is probably one of the elderly population of “seniors” who may be physically at risk. Back in the day before social distancing, it was difficult to navigate the aisles of the Publix grocery store. The fresh produce aisles were worse in the morning because the clerks were busily stocking the shelves with fresh food that had just been delivered. When shopping at the same place for dozens of years, you get to know the employees; so, it wasn’t unusual to stop and visit, and catch up

on news or what had been happening in each other’s lives. That morning, laughing with the produce manager, my cart was bumped from the front. A stern-looking man with a rigid military bearing stared me down. He was none too happy with the frivolity. My first reaction was anger, but in the next breath, I gave him my best smile and said, “I’m so sorry, Captain.” Ignoring me, he pushed past me intent on his shopping. Undeterred, I followed up with, “Or are you a Petty Officer, Sir?” His cart slowed and turned back to me. I thought, “Oh oh, trouble may be brewing.” But that’s not what happened. He came back within five feet from my cart and said, “No I’m not a Petty Office, I’m a pilot.” “No kidding! What airline?” I said. His cart drew alongside mine. “World War II Flying Fortress, but now I fly Cessnas,” he said. I told him, “My father-in-law is 97 years old and flew a B-17 Flying Fortress on D-Day.” He was fully engaged now. Our conversation continued. He told me how many missions he flew in the war, and where he was on D-Day. He spoke with great pride about his role and those of the other pilots. He told me about a special friend who was 102. That friend was still flying airplanes until his death in 2019. His friend was the oldest veteran who had

been celebrated for his accomplishments every year when the WWII events were held in Washington, D.C. I learned about the collective lives of all these veterans. He told me where many of them now lived. He shared how he joined the Air Force and how the bombing missions changed his life. The pride of serving his country in World War II was as dignified as his b earing. I learned that inside the lining of their bomber jackets was a map of the European theater they were bombing. If they were shot down, the maps in the bomber jackets would indicate routes where others would lead them to safety. We’d spent over 30 minutes talking when he realized he’d come to do shopping and said he had to go. “Maybe I’ll see you again,” he said. The man who had bumped my cart and given me a hostile look hugged me goodbye. As we parted I gave him a final military style salute. He teared up for a moment, then the WW II bomber pilot and his cart left produce and headed for the bakery. Though their numbers are dwindling at the rate of 350 a day, I’d just been hugged by a veteran of the Greatest Generation. I left Publix that morning with a smile and a lighter step. I’ve never seen him since. I pray that he’s well and safe from the virus.

Conscious Living with Jo Mooy

Jo Mooy has studied with many spiritual traditions over the past 40 years. The wide diversity of this training allows her to develop spiritual seminars and retreats that explore inspirational concepts, give purpose and guidance to students, and present esoteric teachings in an understandable manner. Along with Patricia Cockerill, she has guided the Women’s Meditation Circle since January 2006 where it has been honored for five years in a row as the “Favorite Meditation” group in Sarasota, FL, by Natural Awakenings Magazine. Teaching and using Sound as a retreat healing practice, Jo was certified as a Sound Healer through Jonathan Goldman’s Sound Healing Association. She writes and publishes a monthly internationally distributed e-newsletter called Spiritual Connections and is a staff writer for Spirit of Maat magazine in Sedona. For more information go to http://www.starsoundings.com or email jomooy@gmail.com.

Live More, Worry Less

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Instead of allowing ourselves to be crippled with fear, we can instead

choose to make the temporary nature of all lives a motivating force to be the best we can be in this life.

By Rena Greenberg Do you know what is really toxic to your immune system and your overall health? Worry. That’s right! Even though a certain amount of fear is normal and may even have the positive benefit of motivating you to take right action, too much worry can actually have harmful effects on your health. As just one clinical example, in 2010 The Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC) reported a study of 249,846 persons over more than 11 years that concluded: “Anxiety seemed to be an independent risk factor for incident CHD [cardiac heart disease] and cardiac mortality. … The results show an association between anxiety and incident CHD with a 26% increase in risk. Anxiety was also specifically associated with cardiac mortality, with anxious persons having a 48% increased risk of cardiac death.” (See the full article at: http://www.onlinejacc.org/content/56/1/38.) So how can you lower your anxiety level despite the coronavirus panic that’s filled our world the past few months? Here are five steps:

1. MAKE A CONSCIOUS DECISION TO REDUCE YOUR STRESS LEVEL.

This may not be easy—but it can be done. Set your intention to relax your body and mind more and more and be willing to practice. Use self-hypnosis audio recordings to help you reset your daily and moment-to-moment stress response. Bring to mind positive images of trees, flowers, smiling babies, puppies, kittens or your happiest memories. Use all of your senses to make your visualizations come alive. Breathe beautiful colors, light and soothing, melodic sounds into every cell of your body. Become conscious of your breathing and the tension you are holding in your muscles. No matter how busy you are, stop what you are doing every hour to stretch and take a few nice big deep breaths. Make relaxing your body and mind a priority.

2. STOP WATCHING THE NEWS!

Stay away from people who are spreading panic. Remember that we are always absorbing the tension in our

environment. It’s essential that we monitor the influences to which we are exposed. Keep in mind that the media gains from attracting more viewers. Remember that it’s their job to create frenzy to insure they get more business. Don’t fall into the trap. Yes, coronavirus and falling stock markets are serious concerns; however, on the other hand, if you’ve been around awhile, you know that most of the “calamities” in life pass. Now is the time to be strong and weather the storm. You can do it, and we can do it together!

3. STAY AS HEALTHY AS POSSIBLE.

In this physical world, do everything possible to keep yourself well. Eat healthy. Exercise. Use intelligent precautions to limit exposure to germs. Build your immune system with healthy nutrients. For example, there is research to show that a healthy endocannabinoid system has a positive impact on keeping all systems of your body healthy. Consider using CBD to help build your endocannabinoid and immune system, but please do the research and make sure that you are only taking a high-quality, medical grade Cannabidiol (CBD) like my Rena’s Organic brand CBD Super Cider. I don’t want you to be one of those people who say, “I tried it, and it didn’t work.”

4. STAY SPIRITUALLY CONNECTED.

Just as important as keeping your mind and body in top form is maintaining your spiritual connection. Is your relationship to your faith healthy and alive? Take time to be in nature and remind yourself that you are a strong, beautiful and resilient child of your Higher Power/God

5. PRACTICE LETTING GO AND LIVING FULLY.

Practice surrendering. We all will transition from this world and that will be the ultimate act of letting go. Why hasten our inevitable death with worry? The reality is, coronavirus or no coronavirus, you and I don’t know how many breaths or moments we have left. Let’s use the time we have to open our hearts to ourselves and each other and spread love, joy, radiant health, peace and wisdom—not worry—to one another.

Love Life, Live Happy, Live Healthy with Rena Greenberg Rena Greenberg, a Hay House author, can be reached at http://www.EasyWillpower.com. Her weight loss and gastric bypass hypnosis success has been featured in 150-plus news stories including USA Today, Woman’s World, The Doctor’s, CNN, Good Morning America and Nightline. PBS stations nationally aired Rena’s show, “Easy Willpower,” in August 2015. Her wellness program is sponsored in 75 hospitals and 100-plus corporations. She conducts hypnotherapy sessions with people all over the world on Skype.

Butterfly Wisdom

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How to summon your inner hero to let positive transformation happen and get back to feeling good. By Terez Hartmann The story is as old as time immemorial: A quest/challenge is issued, a hero accepts and goes forth, and somehow, some way, he or she manages to beat the odds and emerge victorious! Why do we enjoy these epic movies and stories so much? In addition to seeking entertainment and distraction, I believe that these classic tales remind us that no matter how dire, final, or impossible things may appear in the moment, there is always a way that they can and do work out. And when you stop to think about your own life, would you still be here if this were not the case? I know from personal experience that when I have found my way into deep, dark spaces during times when everything was changing around me, often any kind of encouraging words uttered with the purest of intentions sounded like nothing more than “blah, blah, blah...” And honestly, there rarely is anything that anyone can say or do to help you bust out of the funk-fest until YOU are ready to do so. How do you summon your inner hero to let positive transformation happen and get back to feeling good sooner rather than later? While there are many paths of least resistance and different things work better at different times, consider a few pearls of wisdom from one of nature’s heroes, who has mastered the art of survival and transformation over a span of 40 to 50 million years: The butterfly!

Thriving in Every Stage

Butterflies experience four distinct stages of life that each call for different intentions at different times, and I have noticed that every time I have been ready to upgrade my career, relationships, projects, self, or even my moments in time, thinking and acting in harmony with (rather than pushing against) the energy of the moment has been extremely helpful. Just like a caterpillar would not climb to the

top of the highest tree, say, “Hey y’all watch this!” and then try to fly before its transformation, there really IS a season for everything. What if, like the butterfly, you decide that wherever you stand right now is valuable, that there are positives to be found in EVERY step of your journey, and that the more you relax into the knowing that change is the nature of life, the sooner you can get back to feeling good? Try these stages on for size and see what rings true for you. Regardless of where you are, it really is all good!

The Egg Stage

A new seed and tiny spark of pure potential has been planted and will soon see the light of day! As the new being within prepares for hatching, its shell nurtures and protects it. The egg is connected to the underside of a leaf with incredibly powerful natural glue applied by its parents, creating a strong and stable environment to facilitate its birth. This being is entering into a clean slate, and, though it has only started to dream of what it could become, this tiny being has one clear mission and focus— simply to be born and to emerge when the time is right. Ideas for thriving in this stage: This is an opportunity to create and experience something fresh and new, so keep your vibe light and be open and willing to allow feel-good ideas to hatch when the time is right! Create and inhabit welcoming spaces for work, relationships and your day-to-day life. Give your home/living space some love. Play! Have fun! Follow your muse and remember that the first manifestation is always emotion. If you’re feeling groovy on a consistent basis, something amazing is about to pop.

The Caterpillar Stage

The egg has hatched and look out world, here it is! This being has legs, is not afraid to use them, and is propelled forward by a powerful desire to explore the earth and chow down! The caterpillar happily sorts through the buffet of life to discover its personal favorites, and if you’ve ever seen a caterpillar, you know that they too are extraordinary, colorful and beautiful in their own right. Ideas for thriving in this stage: It’s good to be a caterpillar. This is a time of great activity and energy, so roll with it! Get out and live life to the fullest, listen to the call of inspired action and adventure. Sip, sample, and savor the great buffet of life, making a note of what you enjoy and what really feels good to you! Rather than force or “motivate” yourself into action, let love lead the way. Feelings of clarity and high energy will let you know you’re on to something awesome, so if it feels groovy, do it. If you

chew on something that is less than fabulous, no big deal. Now you know that certain things are not your bag, baby, so you just choose something else next time. It’s not worth letting a temporary bad taste bust your groove, as you’ve got people to see and things to do. Yeeehaw!

The Chrysalis Stage

The caterpillar has just received an inner memo: “Cease and desist at once and take a nice, long nap.” It stops eating, bodily functions slow, and its focus is now to create an environment that in many ways mirrors the egg from whence it came. Enough resources have been gathered, decisions have been made, and now it is time to rest, be still, and allow transformation and personal evolution to happen. Though this may seem like a time of dormancy, this is actually a very powerful time when major shifts are happening behind the scenes. Often this is the least sexy part of the butterfly lifecycle because of how things appear on the surface, but it is in THIS stage that the REAL magic happens! Ideas for thriving in this stage: Listen to your body and pay attention to what your life is telling you. You’ve been asking and asking, so now it’s time to stop talking and to listen, to stop trying to “make” things happen and to get out of the way to LET things happen. Get more rest, tune in to your inner voice and turn off the “noise.” Be good and kind to yourself. Surround yourself with soothing people, colors, environments and experiences. If keeping some aspect of your life alive feels like a barefoot, uphill, in the snow battle, cease and desist! You’ve asked for an upgrade, so let the old situation, experience, belief/way of being go. Start thinking like a butterfly and ask yourself, “What could be even better?” While it’s been fun being a caterpillar, there’s more coming that is going to rock your world and take you into amazing new places that you haven’t touched before. Chill, take heart, and know that all truly is well, and bonuses, upgrades, and happy surprises are absolutely imminent! Put your feet up. You’ve done enough and you done good, kiddo.

The Butterfly Stage

After just the right amount of time when the tiny being inside the chrysalis is ready, a new memo has been sent that says, “Open your eyes and stretch your…Wings?” What?! Wow!

The little crash pad the caterpillar built is now way too small and can no longer contain this amazing new being, so it’s time to bust out of this thing and find a new home! But before it takes off, it allows its wings to dry fully, so they are strong, fully formed and ready. Wing 1? Check! Wing 2? Check! Off it goes, and now it has discovered a new kingdom—the air! Again it is compelled to go forth and explore and, although it can fly, it still gets its sustenance from the earth—but what and how it sustains and nourishes itself has changed dramatically. Instead of feasting on leaves, it sips the nectar of colorful flowers through its new built-in straw or proboscis. Its new mission: to fly, to drink from the color and sweetness of life, and to go forth to cocreate and begin a new cycle of planting new seeds of life that will soon become eggs. Ideas for thriving in this stage: Just like the caterpillar that hatched from the egg in your earlier life, you can hardly wait to go forth and greet the world in full color! You are now in a whole new world that you have created and allowed, so focus on the sweetness of life, follow inspired action, milk the beauty as much as you can, and keep feeding the momentum of the new version of you. At the same time, if you need a minute to stabilize and feel solid in your new self/life before fully emerging and showing your new self/reality to the world at large, that’s okay too. The transformation has happened, the wings are there, and the moment you are ready—the sky is now your playground. Focus onward, upward, and forward and get ready for yet more new ideas and discoveries to be born through you! Hello gorgeous!

The Bottom Line on Allowing Transformation with Butterfly Wisdom

What if no matter what things looked like, you really are a hero, everything is always working out for you, and the odds are always for rather than against you? What if whatever is happening right now is the perfect thing at the perfect time that is serving a purpose? What if it really is up to you to decide whether or not you are going to suffer or thrive? What if everything that happens really is an invitation and opportunity to experience higher levels of clarity, fun, and joy? Dream. Discover. Chill. Fly. Repeat! Photo Credit: Pixabay/Yolanda Coervers

ALLOWING YOUR SUCCESS with Terez “Firewoman” Hartmann

Terez “Firewoman” Hartmann,“Your catalyst for all things Fab-YOU-lous,” is the author of Allowing Your Success!, a proud contributing author of Transform Your Life! book one and two, a professional Keynote Speaker/Workshop Facilitator, Singer-Songwriter/Recording Artist, “Allowing Adventures!” & “Savor Vacation” Facilitator, and true Renaissance Woman, and Visionary. She keeps her fire lit by embracing and promoting a lifestyle of “Allowing,” and by using creative expression to elevate and ignite the human spirit, a passion that she shares with her husband, soul-mate and creative partner of over 15 years, John Victor Hartmann. Together they share “Allowing TRUE LOVE” workshops and experiences designed to help others attract, allow, and maintain extraordinary relationships, and create custom jingles and voice-overs in their studio, THE Creativity Express. Visit: http://www.TerezFirewoman.com

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JustAsk123.com & LoveIstheNewCurrency.com 19

Make the Connection

When a crisis stops us in our tracks, we have an opportunity to reflect and to then help create a better world through love and kindness for ourselves and others. By Linda Commito Quarantined in our homes, unable to gather in restaurants, coffee shops, social settings—places where we used to meet up with friends and family—we may be feeling a little isolated and disconnected. With restricted or no real face time, we might ask ourselves, “How can we stay connected while being physically apart? Who and what is most important in our lives? How are we experiencing this time of uncertainty?” Conversations and connections may be increasingly valued when they’re not as readily available. How can we reach out in new ways to let those whom we care about know how precious they are to us? Realizing that we are all in this together, how can we expand our definition of community to be more accepting and inclusive? Recently, I learned an important lesson in dealing with cancer: that there is a huge loving and supportive community that cares about, supports and celebrates each other because of our common, challenging health crisis. Facing the possibility of death is a great equalizer: it doesn’t matter how old we are, what color our skin is, what gender, how much money we possess, what political ideology we have. If we are among the lucky, we are survivors and we are there to help and support each other. Whenever a crisis stops us in our tracks, we have an opportunity to reflect, reassess how we have been spending our precious time and what we are doing to create a better world through love and kindness for ourselves and others. 9-11 was such an event, where in one powerful moment, our world stopped and we became one country, one people, united through tragedy. We learned that we can’t take life for granted, that massive changes could be just around the corner.

This insidious coronavirus may be forcing us to find a “new normal.” Beyond the health and well-being of ourselves and our loved ones, we can see that the way we connect and relate to others in our local and world community matters. We can each make a positive difference by the caring way we see and engage with others in this unfamiliar, changing world. Deepening connections while physically keeping our distance may seem contrary, but it may be yet another opportunity to increase our awareness of how connected we truly are and our desire to be a part of a caring community that watches out for each other, is stronger together than going it alone, accepts and welcomes each others unique contributions. With our hearts, and for many our schedules, open, this is a great time to reflect on who and what we cherish. It is a chance to be and do what we love, expressing our creativity, sharing our passions, reinventing ourselves. (i.e. It was during a year of healing that I developed the card game Just Ask 1 2 3 as a pathway to inspire conversations, kindness and connections. Please check out this fun new way for connecting on the website https://www.loveisthenewcurrency.com). How can we use this TIME to think about and reach out to others who may be alone in their homes, unable to socially engage? Most people want to feel a part of something bigger than themselves, to know that there are people out there who really care about them. We can do that for each other. For now, maybe it’s through phone calls, cards, skype or zoom . . . we’re getting more creative in the ways we choose to let others know that they matter, that they are not alone. Let’s make connecting fun! Together, we can create a kinder, more loving world that is accepting, inclusive and compassionate.

Love is the New Currency with Linda Commito Linda Commito, author, speaker, entrepreneur, consultant and teacher, is passionate about her vision to leave this world a kinder, more compassionate and interconnected place. Her award-winning book of inspirational stories, Love is the New Currency, demonstrates how we can each make a positive difference in the lives of others through simple acts of love and kindness. Visit http://www.loveisthenewcurrency.com for more information and/or to sign up for an uplifting monthly newsletter. Read about everyday acts of kindness on http://www.FB.com/kindnesscollaborative. Linda believes that in order to inspire a kinder world the place to start is with children. She volunteered at a Title One elementary school, working with over 500 students, to create and facilitate “Kindness Starts with Me,» a program which includes a website (http://www.kindnessstartswithme.com) and a book for children.

Photo Credit: Unsplash/Ashkan Forouzani

Am I Spiritual Enough?

Spiritual development is directly connected with a growth mindset. By Monica Canducci In my role as a creative coach and trainer for people interested in mindbody balance, self-improvement, wellbeing, healing and transformation, I often hear questions like: “My friends say I’m not spiritual enough, and this is the reason why I got injured/sick.” “Should I become more spiritual to heal?” Or: “Should I attend workshops for Reiki, crystals, chakras, etc., in order to develop my spiritual self?” I also see many people who, after attending workshops on certain topics, believe that they are “more spiritual” than others who don’t express the same kind of interest in those topics. The truth is that we could know everything about a topic, and even experience “superpowers,” such as channeling or seeing auras, but this would be not be enough to make our life more “spiritual.” People who play a true and acknowledged spiritual role in their communities and around the world know that spirituality is not about having knowledge of subtle energies or attending workshops on certain topics. As seeker of knowledge interested in healing and anthropology, I have been blessed by meeting with spiritual masters, teachers, healers and medicine people from different spiritual paths, from Sufi to native Algonquin traditions. With some I have spent a significant amount of time, even years, learning as much as I could. The common factor connecting all of them is that they don’t differentiate between their regular lives and their spiritual paths. They live doing their best

to be good human beings. Spirituality is connected to being constantly committed to self-improvement and “ego taming.” That means observing ourselves and our actions and working to increase our selfawareness, presence and a sense of community—as well as becoming mindful of the impact our life makes on the environment. In other words, we could say that spiritual development is directly connected with a growth mindset. Actually, from most spiritual traditions we learn that our “spirit” is divine—already perfect—but our consciousness must be developed to comprehend the wholeness beyond each single point of view. This process passes through our body and our ability to sense, meaning that, again, it is about self-awareness and the exercise of being present to our thoughts, emotions, body and the environment—and understanding the connections between these aspects, even if we perceive them separately. Spirituality is mostly about becoming responsible of our self and our actions, and going beyond reassuring beliefs and behaviors with which we tend to identify ourselves, and which make us feel comfortable. We could say that spirituality is being open to go beyond any narrowminded kind of attitude. Spiritual people never judge other people, and, above all, never judge the spiritual level of other people—especially looking at their knowledge of matters and topics commonly defined as spiritual or esoteric. Spiritual paths are usually defined by practices. A practice is something that helps to develop discipline, and it also is

connected with a specific set of meanings and effects to be produced. But the most important fact is that discipline is something that the ego tends to avoid. This is the reason why spiritual paths are based on the taming the ego. Our ego should become the tool, the vehicle through which we can expand our awareness, presence and consciousness of being; it should not be sitting in the driver’s seat. Spiritual paths are never competitive because spiritual masters and teachers know very well that they are all working for the same purposes. There is no “best path ever.” There can be better paths for different individuals because each individual has a unique structure, and so different needs. So we could say that every action we take to deepen the knowledge of ourselves, express our hidden resources and talents, become free from our reactions by mastering our actions, and improve our relationship with ourselves, others and the environment can be considered a spiritual exercise. Spirituality is not a competition based on the spiritual knowledge, tools or practices we have been experiencing or collecting. It is a focus on making everything simple and improving our human existence. I was told by a spiritual master that half of our spiritual path is like drinking tea. The other half? Nobody can tell you what it is because it is different for each of us, and we are all different. When you find it, seize the opportunity to practice self-awareness and being present to what you are doing. Sense it. Smell it. Taste it. Feel it. Enjoy it.

Monica Canducci is an author, speaker, artist, and performer who loves to work as a healing facilitator, movement coach, and teacher in the fields of self-development and spiritual awareness. Monica is unstoppably committed to connecting dots and “making the invisible seen” by exploring the relationships between thoughts, emotions, words, the world of archetypes, and the human body structure. She loves helping people discover their hidden resources and express their true self, in order to achieve healing and self-realization through personal transformation. E-mail Monica at monica.canducci11@gmail.com.

Photo Credit: Pixabay/Kranich17

Think Small

The little things strengthen our faith for the larger demonstrations. By Gregg Sanderson One of the first things we hear as students of metaphysics is, “Think big.” Yet the River of Abundance doesn’t care if you approach it with a thimble or a bucket. It’s all there for us so we might as well bring a tank truck. We’re limited only by our faith. The Universe agrees. Every time we put energy into “I want…” or “I need…” we tell the Universe “I don’t

have…” The Universe says, “OK, you don’t have…” Then you look at not having and say, “This stuff doesn’t work.” And the Universe agrees. So how do we get around this paradox? Just declare, “I accept…” instead. The problem is it does no good if our energy still says, “I need…” It must come from an emotional position of, “It’s no big deal.”

The key is emotional attachment. How then can we become less attached? Think small. Little things are easier to accept and easier to bring into your life. That’s why we get parking spaces quicker than that great relationship. One thing that gets in the way of thinking small is we don’t want to bother God with our petty requests. This is because we created God in our image. The mental residue still thinks God is a guy (or gal) somewhere doling out favors. ‘Tain’t so. Not too long ago, I was on my way to have an expensive gold chain repaired. It had broken for the second time, and the department manager seemed reluctant to fix it the first time. I was not looking forward to the encounter. Furthermore, it was wintertime in Florida, which meant crowds and traffic everywhere. As I sat at a stoplight on my way to the shopping center, I decided to get my head straight. I accepted light traffic, easy parking and a satisfactory solution. The light turned green. I felt like Moses at the Red Sea as the traffic in front of me parted, and I caught green lights all the rest of the way. As I turned into the parking lot, a space by the door vacated and I pulled right in. The manager was not busy and friendly. I showed her the broken chain and she immediately replaced it with a brand new stronger one. No charge.

Remember, the River doesn’t care. It’s easier to fill the thimble than the tank truck. With every thimbleful your gratitude says, “This stuff works.” What do you think the Universe says then? Exactly. So whenever you drive somewhere, accept a parking space. When you go to a restaurant, accept good food and service. At a party, accept happy times and good friends. Accept cordiality and harmony at a business meeting. If you want to break into traffic, accept a safe opportunity. If you fly, accept on-time flights and thin, congenial seatmates.

With any of the little things, we instinctively know the world won’t end if we don’t get it. If we aren’t attached, neither is God, so He, She or It might as well provide it. Get the idea? The little things strengthen our faith for the larger demonstrations. The Universe is happy to oblige. I accept your enthusiastic agreement.

Happiness is BS with Gregg Sanderson

Gregg Sanderson is author of Spirit With A Smile, The World According To BOB. He is a licensed practitioner in the Centers for Spiritual Living, and a Certified Trainer for Infinite Possibilities. His earlier books were, What Ever Happened To Happily Ever After? and Split Happens—Easing The Pain Of Divorce. His latest project is the New Thought Global Network, where subscribers can enjoy the best in New Thought presentations from anywhere at any time. You can see it at http://www.newthoughtglobal.org.

Photo Credit: Unsplash/Frank McKenna

Listen In

“There is a vastness that quiets the soul. But sometimes we are so squarely in the midst of life’s forces that we can’t see what we’re a part of.”—Mark Nepo

By Mary Boutieller These last few months have challenged all of us as the world comes to terms with the coronavirus and COVID-19. Things have been shifting daily, with each day bringing more news, closures, tragedies and recommendations. I know that many have been suffering and worried about food, shelter, work, children...and this can be all-consuming. How do we take care of ourselves and try to take care of others in whatever way we can during this challenging time? How do we honor and trust our own inner voice and also honor this process in others? For me, especially in the beginning, it was a roller coaster ride—up one day and down the next, sleeping well one night and lying awake the next, feeling in control and calm one moment and then an hour later, feeling nervous and anxious. As sensitive, sentient beings, we cannot help but feel the collective energy and consciousness all around us. There are more questions than answers, and I guess the scariest part is not knowing when it will end. That uncertainty can breed fear, anxiety and more. Having always been a strong person able to handle most anything, I found it hard to be with myself as I experienced on-and-off anxiety. I didn’t realize I was subconsciously holding things in until one day I started crying in front of someone who really doesn’t know me that well! I told her I was sorry (for what I’m not sure) and she said, “It’s okay to break down every once in a while.” She saw my humanness and she met it with compassion, and this simple gesture helped me realize that I was having a normal reaction to an abnormal event (this I learned from my Critical Incident Stress training years ago). Maybe we can think about that for a moment. When we start to question how we are reacting

to this or any other tragedy, it helps to realize that we are experiencing an abnormal event. And maybe we can be tender with ourselves as we ride out the storm. So how do we process what is happening and what we are going through while holding the space for those who are suffering? It’s a tough and individual question. Some will stay inside and watch the news, some will hoard needed supplies, some will volunteer their services, and many others will find their own unique way of helping. I steadfastly believe that these types of events can bring out the best in us, enlarge our capacity for empathy and compassion, and allow us to find hope in the midst of uncertainty. If we only take our eyes away from the nightly news sound bites and search out all the good things that people are doing, we’ll realize it is possible. I’m grateful that there are so many guides out there helping us navigate this tumultuous path. These guides, angels and wisdom dwellers help light the path and show us the way. This may be through favorite books and poems, music, acts of kindness, meditation, deep conversations, movement or being out in nature, to name just a few. We only have to seek them out, visit them often, and stay centered as best we can. One of my favorite guides is Mark Nepo, an amazing poet and spiritual writer. In The Book of Awakening, he says, “When feeling urgent, you must slow down...Now more than ever, when the weights you carry seem tied to your wrists, you must not run or flail. Now more than ever, when each decision feels like the end, you must believe that each question is a beginning.” This is sound advice when we feel like we MUST DO SOMETHING or we will burst. This time in our lives is, by choice or by force, asking us to slow down, to go within, to find the truth of our being. It is giving us an opportunity to grow from the inside out

as we see in clear definition who we are in this present moment, and who we can become if we are willing to take a look. So once you have cleaned your house for the upteenth time, organized your closet, binge-watched your favorite shows, stared at the same news channel ad-nauseam—in other words, once you have shaken out all the nervous or numbing energy—listen in. What is your intuition telling you? What is it about this anxiety that comes so often and that we push away with busyness? What are we truly fearful about? What can we learn about ourselves and our habitual coping mechanisms? What have we been putting off saying or doing or being because we just haven’t had the time? Try listening in to your needs, your hopes, your fears and know that it is all okay. It is okay to grieve; it is okay to cry; it is okay to dance in your living room for the sheer joy of it. Allow yourself to express whatever it is you are feeling. If not now, when? And while it is important to stay informed and take things seriously, I implore you to seek out the happy, joyful, wonderful things all around you. Write a letter to the grandkids, call your family or friends, check on a neighbor, marvel as a butterfly floats through the air, watch sweet, romantic or funny movies, smile and say hello to strangers, give thanks, be kind, and share what you can. Remember that this too shall pass, as it surely will, as the river continues to flow to its ultimate destination no matter how it may be impeded. Here is what I see as clear as a new day: We are collectively strong, fragile, amazing, generous human beings. So now, more than ever, let’s take a deep resounding breath and remember our essence, our truth, the light within, and our amazing connection to each other. Sending love and light and wishes for good health.

The Yoga of Life with Mary Boutieller Mary Boutieller is a Registered Yoga Teacher through Yoga Alliance. She has been teaching yoga since 2005. Her work experience includes 22 years as a firefighter/paramedic and 10 years as a Licensed Massage Therapist. Mary’s knowledge and experience give her a well-rounded understanding of anatomy, alignment, health and movement in the body. She is passionate about the benefits of yoga and the ability to heal at all levels through awareness, compassion, and a willingness to explore. She can be reached at: SimplyogaOm@gmail.com.