Happy New Year! Intuitive Insights for 2016

In my last article, I talked about the Solstice and a few of the practices I love to do at this time of year.  I take advantage of the long nights to go within and reflect.  I dance, I paint, I read Tarot.  This year, Universe even had the sense of humour to send me the flu to make sure I took time off and rested - gee, thanks Universe!

I never know what my paintings will look like, what colours will be prominent, and what the message will be.  I just tune in, pick up my brushes, paint and see the result unfold - at the same time I receive messages from my Higher Self and my Guides.  This year, I was quite surprised that the colour scheme was so bright and yellow, although the night sky is on the baby's cloak whereas it was the main colour for previous years.

Here's an overview of my paintings - and of my spiritual evolution - since 2012 (from left to right, top to bottom).  Do they resonate with you, too?

So, what are the messages for 2016?

I am looking forward, and at the same time am a little bit nervous (ok, I'll admit I'm a little scared!) of what this year will bring.  Why?  Because it's brand new energy - and we can't embody this new energy the same way we've been living with the "old" energy.  This is the year of being born again and although this is very exciting with so many new opportunities presented to us, it also means we need to learn to surrender to the Divine.  Since the Solstice, I received many messages that the Divine is ready to support and nurture us as we grow and transform -- but we need to accept this help through the act of surrender.  And damn that's a tough thing for me to do!  I'm more often than not in my head, planning, thinking, learning, holding back mentally until I know it's safe to proceed...  Allowing myself to be taken care of is new and very foreign, and I'm not sure I'm going to like it; at least that's what my head says.

Since 2012, many of us have been hearing the call to change.  Many of us have actually made significant changes in our lives, on so many levels.  For me, it was quitting my government job to start my spiritual work full-time.  For others, it was ending relationships, changing jobs, trying new spiritual practices, dealing with emerging health issues...  It felt like a lot was happening, yet at the same time everything was on hold.  You could feel the great potential, and yet the time was not quite ripe yet to get the anticipated results. Can you relate? Well, the time is now.  What was on hold will unblock.  What you have sowed these past few years, you will harvest. No wonder I had a bit of the flu and stayed in bed for almost 3 days, sleeping.  My body was resting from all that journey and getting ready to embody this new energy!

When I look at the series of paintings, I clearly see the evolution from feeling lost, making my way "home", finding the portal and taking a whole year transitioning through, ready to manifest magic and miracles... and now having fully arrived but wrapped up and needing to be taken care of as I grow in strength and wisdom.

Notice that the blanket has 11 stars along with the Triple Moon on the crown, and look at all the guides shaping up to receive us and help us grow!  This year, we are asked to grow our awareness of, and our relationship with our Guides and spiritual mentors, and especially with the Goddess.  This year, we are asked to consider ourselves as apprentices to the Divine - and this means discipline, focus, and application of our spiritual tools.  We need to find the help we need to understand and apply our spiritual gifts.  We must take the time to meditate, to look for signs, to ensure we are energetically aligned with what we do.  We must be vigilant about our own self-sabotaging and aware of our patterns of resistance, so that we can stop those behaviours and become more receptive and open to Spirit.

Notice also the prominence of the colour golden yellow.  This is a masculine colour and it vibrates with the Solar Plexus Chakra.  It is a joyful colour, and it stimulates us to action.  It is the colour of the Divine Masculine, our power centre, our time to shine and to say, "hey, world, here I am, and I'm ready to shine so I can happily serve for the highest good!  I'm ready to contribute my gifts!"

This year, we will likely be presented with many challenges to help us balance our feminine and masculine energies.  We need to cultivate our ability to listen to our spiritual insights, AND implement them.  We need to rest AND take action.  We need to surrender AND keep journeying forward.  We need to seek how to serve the highest good AND ensure our own true needs are met.  We might travel AND cocoon.  We need to find the help that is required for us to fulfill our soul's mission.  Our actions will be questioned; our lifestyle might go topsy-turvy; we might experience ups-and-downs of radiant joy and heavy resentments and anger...  Ah! Transformation!

In numerology, this year resonates with "9" (2+0+1+6=9).  This means we are at a year of completion.  Many cycles will come to a head or to an end.  You will see the results of your efforts and work from the past 3 years.  It's a year of karma where you will experience the consequences of past actions and decisions.  You don't like what you see?  Don't blame others/society/your upbringing...  see where you can take responsibility for your own actions and choices, and plan to do something new and better for the next cycle.

The more we resist the changes, the more difficult life will be.  If you can develop your resilience through meditation and mindfulness, then it will be a year of extreme growth, learning and transformation.  You get to choose how you will experience this new energy!

How?  Here are a few ideas:

• Often, when we go through a big transformation process, we don't feel like moving.  There is the risk for weight gain and health issues linked to a sedentary lifestyle.  When we don't move our bodies, our emotions and thoughts can't filter through our energy field; instead, they stagnate.  Our body becomes unable to hold on and embody the new energy, and we become sick or depressed.  For your overall wellbeing and for your spiritual development, consider sticking to an exercise routine.  It doesn't need to be complicated, but make sure to get a good cardio workout on a regular basis.
  
• New thoughts and perceptions have a hard time germinating in a stiff body - so stretch your body every day!  Stretch mindfully, affirming that as you stretch your body, you also stretch your ability to receive new insights, or to embody new energy.
  
• Practice a few inverted poses, like downward dog, and keep your eyes open as you do so.  See the world from a new angle; it will help sharpen your mind and creativity!
  
• Open yourself to new experiences.  Try new foods.  Try a new haircut or colour.  Change the route you take to work or to the grocery store.  Buy some fruit or veggie you never tried before, and taste it.  Join a new social group or volunteering organization.  It will destabilize your taste buds or your routine for a short while, but will do you much good by teaching you about how you can handle change.  Your resilience muscles will be strengthened!
  
• Consider taking classes and workshops that will hone your spiritual skills.  Find a mentor or two.  I offer a wonderful coaching program and amazing classes and workshops.  I'd love to journey with you.  Click HERE to explore your needs and how I can best support you.
  
• Want to clear old karma and patterns of choices that aren't serving your highest good?  Consider booking a Soul Profile & Realignment session, where we'll explore your soul's matrix, your gifts, and clear some old negative stories your soul has been holding on to.  

I am surrounding you in Love, and wishing you much Joy in this new year.  Remember to be very gently with yourself this year - great changes and great possibilities are available to you, but it's all about the baby steps!

Merry Winter Solstice 2015!

Are you ready for the new energy coming our way?

I love this night, the longest night of the year.  I find it mysterious, empowering, challenging an exciting!

For the past few years, the Winter Solstice not only marks a change in season - it's officially winter even though it's the warmest and rainiest December I've experienced - it also marks a change in energy.  I used to think that the whole Solstice, Aztec Calendar, 2012 predictions, Stonehedge ceremonies were just a bunch of New Age hocus pocus...  but then I noticed.  I noticed the subtle and not-so-subtle changes in my life that are seeded at the Solstice.  I noticed my change in outlook.  I noticed my change of energy.  I noticed the changes in my clients, colleagues and friends.  I experienced major shifts in my energy work, with more Guides, more precise energy, more confidence.  Strong with this experience, I now consider this night very special and holy indeed.

I love how this night is quiet - and yet is filled with energy.  If you really stop to listen, you might just hear your Guides speaking to you.  You might just hear messages from your animal spirit tribes.  You might hear love notes from deceased loved ones.  This is a night of deep magic.  This is a night of hope and love and learning.  This is such a special night to connect the different pieces of you that you've tried to hide but are now holding you back.  This is a night of healing.

As I write this, I see the ancient Egyptian Goddess Isis coming forth with her deep blue wings, opened wide to welcome you in her embrace.  She is ready to help you on your journey to feeling whole, spiritually connected, empowered.  You only need to accept her Love and her help.

In her mythology, she travelled up and down the Nile River to find the pieces of her husband, the God Osiris, who had been dismembered by his vengeful brother in a struggle for the Egyptian throne.  Isis found all the pieces, created the first mummy, and the first mummification ritual to bring Osiris back to life.  In doing so, she also brought back Light (Osiris is the Sun God) and order to the Kingdom.  Hers was a journey of Love, of service, and deep life-giving magic for the highest good of all.  I love that she is stepping forward to be our guide this year!  She is one of the most ancient and powerful goddesses; let's get ourselves ready to work with her!

How?  Here are a few ideas:

• Give yourself some quiet time to reflect on pieces of you that you have left behind due to pain, shame, or the need to fit in.  Is it a funky, spunky part of your personality?  Is it your inner rebel?  Is it the part of you that truly believes in magic?  The part of you that believes in true love? Write about it in a journal, or draw a picture, or paint what this piece means to you.  Then close your eyes, and ask for help to make peace and find forgiveness.  Know that you are now strong enough to reintegrate that piece of you in your current life.  See yourself bringing that piece of you in your body.  Where does it fit?  Your heart?  A chakra?  Breathe it in, feel it... and take time to rest.  Now that you acknowledge that piece of you, what is possible for you?
• Put on your favourite music, and move your body!  Dance!  Too often, we allow our minds to direct our life...  for just a few songs, allow for your heart and your spirit to move you.  Find balance as you integrate your body, your spirit, your soul.  Enjoy your body and how it moves.  Speak lovely things to your body.  Listen for its wisdom.
• Light a deep blue candle in a gold dish.  Burn incense.  Meditate on your biggest dream, your biggest desire.  Ask for the courage and strength to find all the pieces of the puzzle, all the resources you need, and the wisdom to see your dream or desire manifest.  Remember that your quest will include action, not just wishful thinking.  Ask about your next right action step, listen for the answer, and DO IT.

Enjoy this special night and all the nurturing energies that are coming forth to help you to your own greatness.  Always remember your beauty and your magic.  Always remember that you are not alone on your journey, even though it might feel like it on the darkest of nights.  Walk through this new energetic portal with grace, and with a new feeling of wholeness and enchantment.

Do you need some extra help?  I'd love to help you uncover pieces of you that you've buried so deep you don't even remember what they are.  They hide under beliefs and patterns.  They might feel heavy or sluggish in your chakras.  They might feel like empty space in your heart.  See what can shift in a session with me.  Click here to book.

I am surrounding you in Love, and wishing you much Joy in this new year.

Are your values fed by fears?

Here's a nugget of wisdom I gained while teaching last evening.  I explained what is an ethical dilemma, and how at its core, such a dilemma happens when two or more values that we hold near and dear to our heart are in conflict.  This can be an external conflict, e.g. my core values are different than yours, and we are in disagreement about what to do.  It can also be an internal conflict, e.g. my core values are changing and I'm not sure where I stand anymore.  We put this in context with a typical Lightworker scenario: using your magic, mojo, vibes, etc. to manifest a really great parking lot on a busy shopping day.  Easy breezy for some people... but for many Lightworkers, this is a difficult, uncomfortable, internal-sweats-and-palpitations moment.  Why?

We examined the values that might be at odds.  We agreed that compassion and caring for others, and standing firm in our personal power are likely conflicting.  And when we dug a little deeper...  we noticed that the value we hold dear, that of compassion and caring -- e.g. what if an elderly person, or a pregnant woman, really needed that spot and I just took it from her?  -- is not only conflicting with the teaching and value of standing in your power; but standing in our power and manifesting through intention and magic is also conflicting with deep FEARS.  And there's a big fear here... that when we ask for a parking spot, or money, or ease in our day... we are not working for the Highest Good (an other BIG value for Lightworkers).  The internal conflict of being confident in our energy work & trust that Spirit knows best and will manifest according to divine will...  and the fear instilled in us (in many lifetimes?) about the "bad" or "evil" or "egoic" practices of energy work - and that we have to work for the entire community/world, and never request anything for ourself.

Ooooh...  That's my lightbulb moment from last night.

Can you see any of these values and conflicts at play in your life, and in your decision-making patterns?

Part of our "ohm-work" is to reexamine our values, and to ask ourselves - is this really true?  Am I really holding on to this value out of Love, and in Alignment with my Highest Self?  Or am I holding on to this value because I have been taught this is the right thing / good girl /zen thing to do?  Am I holding on to it because I am afraid of not being good enough, powerful enough, deserving enough of requesting what my heart and Higher Self truly desire for me to experience in this lifetime?  Am I afraid to ruffle feathers?

When you truly understand your values, you get insights into why you do the things you do.  And then, when you realize your values have shifted, or need to shift, because you are awakening to a new paradigm...  then it's easier to choose new decisions and actions based on values that are aligned with who you are, now.

Does this make sense?

I know I'll be working on old patterns of behaviour and actions now that I have identified what I do because I've secretly been holding on to fear...  And that's because being fearless and courageous are values I hold dear.

How about you?  Are you ready to review your values?  Are you ready to change your behaviours?  Need help to see clearly through the forest? Reach out - I can help!

Own Your Power!

I have a pet peeve.  It's driving me nuts, and I want to do something about it.

My pet peeve is victimization.  When I see people suffering from acute victimitis (yes, I even made a word for it!) my stomach squeezes tight, and if I had the super power to create special effects, you would see the super wind-fan blowing my hair around me, lightening zapping in the background, and the temperature would go up as I reach for my magic sword and speak with a deep echo...  (yes, yes, almost like Lady Galadriel when offered the One Ring...)

...Your life experience is the result of YOUR past choices.  

If you don't like, learn to make different choices.

Yes, life throws us curve balls.  No, it's not always fair.  At times, it even sucks.  Big time.  And you just want to curl up in a ball and yell to the world, "Why is this happening to me??".....

Ah -  and that is the question, my dear.

And the answer to that question is not found in others.  Blaming and pointing fingers is not helpful.  Shaming yourself and allowing that self-talk to tell you how insignificant, how stupid, how much of a looser you are is not helpful either.

I know those thoughts.  They've been in my head my WHOLE LIFE.  I think I was 7 years young the first time I wished my brain was taken out of my skull for those thoughts to just stop talking and making me feel so bad.  I was crying myself to sleep almost every night, and I don't think anyone ever noticed my distress.  Even at 7, I was able to keep it in during the day - although I tended to retreat in my imaginary world where things were quite different.  As a teen and young adult, the pattern was deeply ingrained.  I suffered through anxiety and panic attacks.  My first burn-out was at age 18.

I blamed my parents, for their lack of emotional care.  I blamed society, for its twisted values.  I blamed myself, for... well so much.

My saving grace, I suppose, is my strong desire to create something better for myself, and for others.  I still hear those thoughts, I still experience those negative feelings - and I CHOOSE to perceive them differently.  I choose to learn from them.  I choose to go to the root cause of the issues and clear them once and for all (and that's why I love Akashic Record Readings!).  I choose to get help and find actions that will bring me OUT of that darkness.  I choose not to languish in a puddle of self-pity.

I took me years to develop this inner strength.  Why I chose to leave my cushy government job (where I was crying every day) and start my own business?  It's not luck.  I accept the consequences of my choices, including the very very tight budget I am currently experiencing.  I chose to create a life with more joy, more freedom, more creativity, and more ME.  It's a choice.

I am sharing this story with you today because I have heard so many of my clients say, in the past weeks, how scared, how lost, how sad, how unhappy they are with their life situation at this time.  Some feel the victim of life circumstances.  Others feel they're the victim of some spooky dark forces or even angels with life-changing advice. Some people come to me and unload their story and feel better for it... and yet don't want to take any steps to own their story and change their beliefs or decision-making patterns.  They go back to their life and do the same thing all over again. Those are not my ideal clients.

The choice to create a better life is a choice available to everyone.  That includes YOU.  I can show you how.

If there is a super power I can share with you, it's the power to regain your strength, your free will, your freedom of choice.  No matter what life throws at you, you will know that you have a choice as to how you respond to the situation, and what you can make out of it.  That's who I am as a coach: I hold the space for you to express your pain AND to grow into your own super powers.  If you don't want to change and want to stay in acute victimitis...  I'm sorry I can't help you.

But if you're ready to move and groove; if you're at that point where enough is enough; if you're ready to take responsibility for creating the life of your choice... then I'm your gal.  Thankfully, I don't really change into Lady Galadriel when we meet (teehee) but I can summon up some pretty cool energy vibes and guides to help you through your own transformation from puddle on the floor to full-on goddess.

Please don't stay in acute victimitis...  Let's talk.

I'm wrapping you up in White Light and sending you blessings of JOY.

New Moon Manifestation Ritual

It's the New Moon!  Here is a simple ritual that will help you focus on raising your vibrational level to match the rate of what you want to manifest.  You need to commit to working with the moon until at least the Full Moon at the end of the month - looking at the night sky, seeing the crescent become fuller... and noticing in your life how you can become fuller with positive vibes that will attract your wishes.



What you need: a dark cardboard to signify the night sky; a white paper to cut out the moon.  Stars, sparkles, coloured pencils...  to decorate your moon with the energy of your wishes, and to decorate your "sky".



Why it works: the exercise keeps you focused on the positive feelings and energies you want to create.



And?  The moon influences the water on Earth with a push/pull action, causing the tides to ebb and flow.  Our bodies are made of mostly water; the moon has a push/pull power over us too!  Also, water is linked to the realm of emotions and the divine feminine.  It guides creation and intuition.  You know the Law of Attraction - like attracts like.  Focus your energy on being at the vibration of that which you want to manifest... and relax as it comes to you as easily as the moon glides and shines in the night sky.

Crystals that can help you create more harmony, freedom and joy

The Sacral Chakra is all about creativity as we transform raw energy and emotions into our own unique signature vibe.  Creativity is not only for the artists - we all need good creative mojo if we are to live the life we want; it won't just happen, we have to make it happen!

At times, old hurt feelings, learned beliefs or outdated patterns can really get in the way of the creative flow.  Working with crystals can help boost your meditative and self-reflective practices so you can get back in the flow.

There are so many wonderful crystals to choose from...  here are 3 to get you started: Mookite, Carnelian and Himalayan Salt Lamp.  Also on the shelf behind me and next to the Salt Lamp (I forgot to mention it in the video) is the Desert Rose.  You can read about it here.

Aromatherapy for the Heart Chakra

As I have previously written, our sense of smell is amazing for transporting us to different times and places.  It can trigger emotional and physical responses.  It can trigger fear and anger if we smell something that reminds us of a past hurt or trauma.  But scents can also help us release stress and anxiety and transport our brain and its wonderful chemistry to a place of peace, Love and harmony.

The Heart Chakra resonates with the sacred Element of Air.  Because scents are often carried to our nose through air particles, working with various aromas is well indicated when we choose to open and heal this chakra.  The sense of smell and the respiratory system are closely linked to the Heart Chakra.  Each breath you take carries oxygen to your body.  Every breath you take moves your lungs; imagine this movement cradling and massaging your heart.  Spend a few minutes in quiet contemplation as you focus on your breathing.

This week, be very mindful of the scents around you.  Become conscious how each scent makes you feel.  Are you welcoming the various scents as they talk to your subconscious?  Are the scents in your home contributing to that “homey feeling” you enjoy?  Are you closed to all external scents or overly sensitive to aromas, and is your body triggered with certain scents?  Do you take a deep breath or do you choke up?  Be conscious and mindful; ask your body, your mind and your heart what message is behind each feeling or reaction triggered.

Here are some of my favourite aromas for the Heart Chakra.

Rose:  For thousands of years, the scent of rose has been linked with the feeling of unconditional love.  It helps us reconnect with our divine essence.  It can assist in healing a broken heart and in calling in new love into one’s life.  It is very soothing and can alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety.  I find that Rose connects me to the higher realms and to spiritual guides, including saints - like Thérèse de Lisieux - and Mother Mary.

Chamomile:  This herbal and sweet scent is very soothing and calming.  Chamomile is said to stabilize the emotions and can help release toxic emotions such as anger and resentment; emotions that can weigh heavily on the heart.  Inhale deeply as you curl up with a good cup of chamomile tea!

Jasmine:  The scent of jasmine is very uplifting.  It makes my heart smile as it transports me to a more tropical paradise, and in that sense it helps me combat winter depression.

Strawberry:  Now this is a fun-loving, nurturing scent that always brings me back to lush summer days of my childhood.  I enjoy using strawberry when I work in inner child issues, because it makes me feel safe, protected and joyful.  It’s always easier to find inner peace, joy and forgiveness when we feel safe and loved!

How to use these scents:

Enjoy any one of these scents on their own, or combine them to make you own unique Heart Chakra blend.  When I was working in an office environment, I placed a tissue in a 1 ounce plastic container.  I placed a few drops of essential oils on the tissue and put the lid on the container.  A few times a day, I would take the lid off and breathe in deeply the aromas; it helped me work on my chakras (during my breaks) while not imposing scents on my coworkers.

At home, place a few drops of your favourite scent in a candle warmer or diffuser.  I always fill the top of the candle warmer with water so that the scents can evaporate on top of the water without splattering oil everywhere.  Scented candles and incense are also a wonderful way to fill your space with healing aromas.

An other great way to enjoy these soothing aromas is by soaking in them.  For the Heart Chakra, I recommend using 1 cup of pink Himalayan salt, 2 tbsp baking soda, 1 tbsp almond or coconut oil, 1 tbsp honey, and 10-20 drops of your favourite scent.  Dilute in a very warm bath and soak for at least 20 minutes.  Focus on your breathing, and imagine the healing properties of the plants entering your body through your nose while old energies leave your body with your exhale.  At the end of your soak, pat dry your body to keep some of the scent of your skin, and rest.

Have issues come up this month pertaining to your Heart Chakra?  I can help you work through them by helping you connect to your inner wisdom.  My sessions are intuitive as I tap into what your soul wants you to know.  I connect to higher realms using Reiki, an energy that can help shift and deeply transform how you feel.  Click here to book an appointment.

Surrounding you in Love & Light.

2015 Gateway: The year I learn to love myself

First of all, welcome to 2015!   May this year be filled with Love, Joy, Happiness a deep sense that inner Knowing.  I’ve been reflecting on my inner work, my business, the big changes that happened in my life in 2014 and on the energy I feel is arriving for 2015.  I am finding it very auspicious to start this year under the umbrella of the Heart Chakra!

The sensitive intuitives out there have most likely felt this shift of energy since the Winter Solstice.  To me, it’s been palpable.  It also feels quite different.  I have a very strong sense that a new gateway has opened since the Solstice; one that is just as important - if not more - than the much talked-about gateway of December 2012 when many folks were talking about the end of world as we know it as predicted by the Mayan Calendar.

I’m seeing it like this:  imagine for a moment that you are living in a lush land governed by a beautiful of loving King or Queen.  Their castle is just beyond the horizon, past the forest and past well-tended gardens.  There are gates at the end of the forest, at the entrance of the garden, and of course at the entrance of the castle.  There are likely more gates inside the castle itself.  All gates must be crossed before reaching the royal chamber.  Each gate we cross bring us closer to this chamber.  I believe that Lightworkers of the world have been receiving their invitation to journey to the Castle in the years leading to 2012.  Some have responded with extensive preparations including meditation, fasting, and learning new energy techniques.  Others have decided to ignore the invitation, or have felt too much shame, or an overwhelm of responsibility regarding this invitation.

Come Solstice 2012, we were at the Forest Gate.  For many, 2013 felt dark and dense.  It was tough to pick our path through the thick woods.  We felt alone.  It was hard to keep the faith that something better was waiting for us; or rather it was difficult to realize that we ARE that something better as we journey and travel our own path to our soul’s destination.

At the Solstice of 2013, we arrived at the Garden Gate.  2014 held promises of flowers, sunshine and chirping birds.  Some of us become lost in the garden’s mazes, going around in circles and loosing track of the path.  It was a year of push and pull.  A year of revisiting life goals and heart’s desires.  It was a year to shed the past to recreate a new identity based on the new knowledge and Light that entered our life.  It was a year to take stock of our dreams and accomplishments, and to see if we preferred the dream to the reality being experienced, and to what degree we were ready to help THE DREAM become manifest.

At the Solstice of 2014, we arrived at the Castle’s Gate.  Take a moment now to fully visualize this Gate.  Are you at the front gate, the back gate, or any other secondary gates?  Is it covered in gold, is it big and imposing, or is it simple, wooden or of rusted iron?  Take a moment to see, feel, and listen to where you’ve arrived.  Now take a moment to clarify your hopes and intentions before entering the Castle’s grounds.  Are you entering with Love, or with Fear and resentment?  Are you entering with thoughts of lack, stress and anxiety, or are you entering with feelings of peace, contentment and excitement for all that is ahead?  If you’re like me, you’re likely experiencing a good mix of emotions and thoughts.

It is my feeling that 2015 ushers in a greater ability to manifest our heart’s desires.  Our ability to co-create with the Divine will be enhanced.  We have, therefore, an increased responsibility to be clear about what we want to experience and how we choose to feel.  We are that much closer to the Royal Court…  everything we think and feel is important.  Remember: thought-forms are energy that attract to us physical experiences.  As we cross the Castle’s Gate, we enter a hall of mirrors where everything we believe is reflected back to us.   So if you crossed the Gates with anger, bitterness and resentment - more of that will be reflected to you.  If you are clear about your intentions and your feelings, if you are willing to journey to more Love, then those are the experiences you will attract to you.  Take a good look in the mirror: do you like what you see?  Can you see the divine spark of Light and Love in you, or are you distracted by the smoke and silly mirrors that are distorting reality?

Our first challenge for 2015 is to walk through that funny house of mirrors.  Since the Solstice, I have to admit that I have been feeling slightly terrified.  I always panic a little when faced with the reality I create.  I’ve been reviewing my life since childhood and so much hurt came up to the surface - and I had to take a good look at these events.  I had to take a good look at my coping abilities, and I had to call upon extra divine help to bring Light and Love to these events.  I realized that deep down in my core, beyond all the masks, beyond all the efforts of healing…  I have been holding on to a belief of self-hatred.  I have been belittled, bullied, shamed and shown conditional love to the point that those are the feelings and thoughts I apply to myself.  It hurts.  It really hurts.  It sabotages my personal and business efforts in so many ways.  And I’ve had enough.  This is the year I stand up for myself - but out of Love and not defiance or grief.  This is the year I forgive myself.  This is the year I move toward forgiving others.  This is the year I learn to love myself.  This is my Truth, and this is how I humbly make my journey forward to a deeper, more mystical chamber…

What is the hall of mirrors reflecting back to you?  Do you need to talk about it?  I’m here to listen - book a time to connect with me via phone, Skype or in person.

Also, for all who need a bit of extra help this month, I am offering local and distance Reiki sessions at a 2 for 1 rate - that’s 2 sessions for only $100.  Both sessions must be booked in January.

Surrounding you in Love & Light.

Solar Plexus Chakra & Winter Solstice: Celebrate Your Inner Light!

This is the time of year where most cultures and religions - at least from the northern hemisphere - are celebrating Light on Earth.  This celebration takes on many forms, and most traditions include lighting candles and sharing wishes of joy and prosperity.  It is no coincidence; most religions have modelled their celebrations of light upon the very ancient traditions of observing the sun’s cycles.  You see, this is the time of the Winter Solstice, where the Sun appears to come closer to the Earth and the days start to get longer.  For the Ancients, this was a time to reflect upon and celebrate divine Mystery.

My kitchen island dressed up as an
Altar to the 4 Elements

To me, the Winter Solstice is the perfect time to meditate on my shadow aspects and also on the projects and energy I want to bring forth in the coming year.  I typically stay up the whole night of the Solstice painting, dancing, meditating and enjoying the company of like-minded friends.  At sunrise, we go outdoors near the beautiful St. Lawrence River and we ring bells to welcome the sun and the new solar year.  We finally go to bed at around 8AM.  The deeper significance of this night of vigil is that there is always hope, even in our darkest of times.  There are many nuggets of truth and wisdom to gain from meditating on our darker aspects.  These lessons help grow our Soul and reconnect us to the source of Light and Love.  These lessons help us understand what is truly important to our Soul, and help shed light on how we can make the world a better place by being more authentic and empowered.

This year's Winter Solstice
Meditative Painting

Looking at this time of celebration through the lens of the Solar Plexus Chakra, it is a perfect time to tend to our inner light, where we store our vital life force energy.  Take this quick quiz to check in on your Solar Plexus:

Simply answer YES or NO to each of the statements below.

• I feel confident in most situations. 
• I am able to laugh easily. 
• I see projects and commitments through to completion. 
• I feel I have a healthy digestive system. 
• I speak up for myself. 
• I have the courage to take risks when necessary. 
• I establish appropriate boundaries for myself. 

How did you score?  If you answers “NO” more than four times, it may indicate that your solar plexus chakra is lacking in energy. If you score four or more YES answers, wonderful! You are balanced in the solar plexus centre.

I love a good Sun Meditation to help balance my energy and boost my confidence, joy and personal radiance.  Use this visualization to enhance your inner peace and sense of self-worth.  When possible, do this meditation while standing in sunlight, offering your forehead and solar plexus to the light and warmth of the sun.

Take a deep breath, and gently close your eyes.  Imagine yourself standing at the top of a mountain. With your inhale, imagine you are breathing in the golden light from the sun.  With your imagination, bring this golden breath to your stomach area, where it ignites the spark within your own fire centre. You are filled with this brilliant solar energy. Your power centre is radiating with vital life force.  Imagine that with each breath, you are bringing golden light to your entire body, especially to areas that feel cold or achy.  When your body is filled imagine that, with your exhale, you are sharing this golden light to your projects, to your relationships, to your finances…  Envelop them in golden light, and know that this light will energize them and will help them grow.  When you feel complete, gently open your eyes and give thanks to the Sun.  Take this calm and restorative power into your life and move forwards with confidence and courage. 

Surrounding you in Love & Light.

Feeling down? 3 tips to boost up your energy

I am feeling so depleted in my life-force energy. For the past two weeks, I have felt a heavy shroud around me. I’ve been sitting at my computer, trying to find words for my weekly newsletter, and I totally flat-lined. Doing the smallest task seems to be sucking energy out of me, and I need to schedule more rest periods and longer nights’ sleep than usual. What’s up with that?

Well well… isn’t it interesting that we’ve entered the month dedicated to the Solar Plexus - the centre for our inner sun, our energy reserve, our ability to deal with stress. It seems that once again I must teach from a place of knowing and “been there, done that”… So, how do I move from this slow as molasses sticky energy to more clarity and vitality?

Here are my top 3 tips.

1. Have a pyjama day. Honour your energy level. I find it very unbalanced that, in our society, we must always maintain a high level of energy to do more and more and more. We feel guilty if we do less, even just for one day. We feel like the world might come apart if we take a day off work or away from our children to restore our health and vitality. We feel ashamed of being vulnerable, or feeling weak. Hmmm… hello ego! These beliefs and that type of self-talk is ego and fear-based; and these are patterns governed by the shadow side of the Solar Plexus chakra. So ask yourself: is it really true that the world will crumble if you take care of yourself for one day? Is it really true that you must constantly prove yourself as being strong, unbeatable and unaffected by life’s events? Bring balance to your life and enjoy your pyjama day.
2. Be mindful of the foods you are eating - especially during the holiday season, full of indulgences. Are your food choices truly nourishing? When I feel stressed, I reach out for pastries, cookies, cakes and other sweets. Stress is linked to insulin production, and the pancreas which secretes insulin is governed by the Solar Plexus. I know, however, that the short-term energy boost from sugar and insulin is not healthy for me and if I give in to my cravings I will ultimately feel more tired and sick. I might have one or two cookies, but then I choose to love my body by feeding it fresh fruit, vegetables and proteins that will sustain my energy on the long-term. I’ve had to journal my food intake for a few months to discover the foods that give me energy and those that make me feel depleted, and I’ve modified my eating habits based on that insight. I have empowered myself to make better choices.
3. Massage acupressure points. It feels so good and it helps unblock that sluggish energy. The basic points to massage are just below the collar bone; just above the heart (thymus); and the outside of your legs following your pant-seams from the hips to the knees. View the video below to do an energy routine with me.

My vital energy is returning after a short cycle of introspection and inner work. There are many more things I need to deal with this week, but I feel stronger and calmer for having taken the time to lovingly listen to my body.

This week, remember to breathe down to your belly, and take at least 5 minutes a day to truly tune in to your body and become aware of its needs. Follow through with its recommendations for you; whether it is more sleep, better nourishment of a different type of physical exercise, listen to your gut feelings. Doing so will strengthen your relationship with your body - and with your Solar Plexus.

Surrounding you in Love & Light.

Emotional Baggage? Try clutter clearing.

I once worked with a client who felt extremely overwhelmed and stressed, and the holiday season had several triggers for her that would bring her spiralling down into sadness and depression. She missed how her family used to get together at Christmas. She missed her parents who had crossed over. She missed the parties, the sing-alongs, the cooking and the traditions. She loved decorating for the holidays and was an avid collector of snowy village scenes, and she mentioned that her house was filled with boxes upon boxes of decorations.

We started disentangling her thoughts and her feelings through Holographic Reiki sessions. One image that really stood out for me was that when I placed my hands over her Sacral Chakra, I received a clear image of my client in a place that looked like an airport. She was trying to go somewhere, but she had too much baggage. Looking around in this vision, I saw hundreds of stacked boxes that belonged to her. All this baggage was overwhelming for the airport staff; there was no way to catalogue or scan all of these boxes of stuff and memories. A feeling of panic and hopelessness accompanied the vision. I knew that this vision was a metaphor for the emotional baggage she carried, and I knew that a Reiki session could only go so far without her taking action to clear physical clutter in her life.

My mentor, Denise Linn, teaches that clutter clearing is modern-day alchemy: it's the fastest way to transform your life and shift energy in a space. According to Feng Shui principles, clutter stops good energy from circulating in your home and as a result you will feel bogged down, disorganized, stuck and even depressed. It can even manifest physically as excess weight! Think of it: if your clutter constantly reminds you of all those old emotions, beliefs and hurts weighing you down, you'll find it very difficult to find joy and to create abundance in your daily life.

Are you ready to take action and shift toward greater joy? Your task this week is to de-clutter one area of your home or office. Start with one drawer or one closet. Decide how much time to want to spend de-cluttering, and set a timer. Use the following 3 principles to help you go through your stuff:

• Love it: Pick up an item and determine if you really love it, and if your energy goes UP when you touch it. Does the item still fit who you are, and who you are becoming? If you really love it and it brings you joy, make sure it's in good shape. Make necessary repairs and find a way to display it in your house without creating clutter. If you can't repair it or if it will create additional clutter, pass it on to someone who can love it as much as you. 
• Use it: Are you still using this item? Will you miss it? Does it support you in your personal and business arenas? Does it support your dreams and desires? Are you using it with love or with a feeling of "having to"? Is it in good repair? 
• Release It: If you don't love it and don't use it, then it’s time to pass it on. Discard, recycle, donate. 

I have been de-cluttering my entire home since August - when the dishwasher decided it was time to renovate the whole kitchen... I love the feelings of joy, empowerment and creativity that are increasing in my household. I can feel stagnant energy leaving the house, and I can feel my inner heart-space shifting and expanding. It's not always easy work to get rid of old stuff... but the exercise is well worth it!

Are you up for the challenge? You'll soon find that your joy increases and your soul sings! Share your experience with me.

Surrounding you in Love & Light.

Reiki and Energy Work for a broken bone - Epilogue

Over a year already since I injured my wrist. I am finally taking time to write an epilogue to the three blog entries documenting my journey with a cast.

• March 25, 2013: Reiki and Energy Work for a Broken Bone
• April 1, 2013:  Reiki for a broken bone - Week 1
• April 8, 2013:  Reiki for a broken bone - Week 2

I think that part of the reason why I was procrastinating writing more on this healing journey is that I felt it had somehow failed. When I returned to the hospital 4 weeks after my injury I expected the bones to be fully mended – after all, doctors had said it would take 4-6 weeks for the injury to heal, and Reiki is supposed to speed up recovery so I expected my healing would take a shorter amount of time.

Once the cast was removed, I knew it wasn’t healed and I felt surprised and disappointed. I couldn’t even raise my arm from the x-ray table without assistance from my left hand due to the pain. My hand was still swollen and yellow from the bruising. The lines in my palm were absent due to the swelling (it was so strange to see a blank palm!). Then I started wondering if I had done Reiki “wrong”, or if I hadn’t been consistent enough in my application of Reiki, or if Reiki really did work… My faith in energy healing was dampened, and that is not something I am proud of nor did I want to share my doubts with my clients, students and readers. I could still feel the energy at work, I felt the reassurance of guides, and I knew I was growing emotionally and spiritually – but why wasn’t my body healing almost instantly?

The cast was removed 3 weeks later, the injury being fully healed. I needed a few weeks more to slowly return to the full use of my hand, wrist and arm. My chiropractor gently adjusted the wrist bones and my massage therapist continued to relieve residual pain in the shoulder girdle and arm. And oh the joy of showering without a plastic bag on my arm, and washing my hair with both hands! I returned to the joy of writing with my right hand, sleeping without pillow support under my arm and without the fear of clubbing my husband as I slept, cooking without the odors of the food “sticking” to the cotton of the cast and following me everywhere… And the household slowly went back to its previous state with most of the house chores falling upon me, the others being not as quick to help now that I wasn’t as helpless…

There are some good habits I maintained, like involving my son in cooking and increasing his chores to a level more appropriate to his age. I am also better at asking for help although deep down I still dislike it. I guess I have some of that super-woman I-can-do-it-all syndrome going on…

It was also interesting to use my wrists as practice for my students discovering energy work and Reiki; I was asking them to energetically sense both wrists and see if there was a difference, and all of them were amazed that they could sense a difference between the wrists. Most noted that there was more buzzing energy over the one that had been injured. The wrist continued to protect itself and kept knitting the bones for many months after the cast was removed.

In May this year, I met a gentleman in his sixties sporting a blue cast. I asked him about his injury and shared some of my story about breaking my wrist while disco-skating. He had tripped over an electrical cord. He mentioned that he took three days before going to the hospital because although he felt some pain, there was very little swelling and he just thought he had sprained his wrist. He was surprised that he actually had broken a bone.

A few weeks later, my son broke his wrist while playing dodge ball at school. Same story with him: there was some pain and minimal swelling but no big egg-shaped swelling on the wrist and “sausaging” of the fingers like I had experienced the previous year. But with the story of the other man fresh in my memory, I decided to bring my son to the ER for an x-ray just in case. He was in a cast for 4 weeks.

A few hours after breaking my wrist,
still in the ER with disco glitter...
Can you see the egg shaped swelling
forming over the broken bone?

So then I realized how serious my injury had been. In comparison to these 2 new case studies, where there was only discomfort instead of pain that would make you pass out, and no swelling… I had won the prize so to speak for the biggest, baddest wrist injury around. Then I remembered how Reiki helped me reduce the pain and keep my intake of painkiller to a minimum during the first few days. I wasn’t surprised anymore that it took my body more than 4 weeks to heal since it had more work to do than for a simple fracture. I became actually amazed that it took only 7 weeks to heal now that I understood how messy the injury had been. I was finally able to move from disappointment in energy work in the matter of broken bones, into gratitude and love.

And so it is true that healing doesn’t always work in the way we wish it to work. In my case, I had wanted a full recovery in 4 weeks or less without understanding the gravity of the situation. When I realized it wasn’t happening, my faith in energy work wavered. What was I doing wrong that my request went unanswered? I wanted my will to be done without understanding the bigger picture…

Can you see that pattern in your life as well – wanting your will to be manifested instantly without an understanding of the fuller picture? Is it difficult for you to fully surrender to Spirit without wanting to control the outcome of a situation? Do you judge what should happen and are you disappointed when what you believe should happen does not manifest?

We all go there. It’s one of our lessons as humans.

I now feel more humble and grateful for the healing gifts I have. I know they work although it’s not always in the shape, type or timing I imagine. I am learning to “let go and let God” in an even deeper, more intimate and more grateful way than ever before.

Do you need help understanding the greater picture of a physical or emotional injury? I’ve been through a personal process and I have also guided many clients to more clarity, understanding and inner peace. I would love to have the opportunity to journey with you, too.

If you want to explore how we could be a good match to journey together, book your complimentary 30-minute Clarity Session. This link brings you straight to my calendar so you can book a time and date that is most convenient to you. I am looking forward to hearing from you!

Oracle Forecast: June 2014

From the Mediterranean Sea...  view the June Oracle forecast!

Much Love from my heart to yours!

Oracle Reading, April 2014

What does the Oracle recommend this month to be in the flow of Energy?  Breathe, and accept nothing less than the beautiful, divine beauty that you are.  View the video for the full reading.

Remember to contact me if you want your own, personal Oracle Reading!  It would be my pleasure to serve and nurture your Soul.

New video: About me, and my mission to help you shine your Light!

I'm playing with my camera and my computer's video editing software...  One day, my videos will be professional, but if I wait for everything to be perfect, I'll wait forever in my shadow!

In this video, I share my mission and my passion to help you shine your Light.

I am wrapping you up in White Light and sending you much Love, from my heart to yours!

Meditation for World Peace

Can you take 15 minutes to weave your thread of Love and Light in a world-wide web of Peace?

Share below the colour of the thread you are bringing to our Web!  Namaste!

In the beginning… Genesis of Star People on Earth (1 of 2)

The day I submitted my resignation at work, the Universe orchestrated a fun activity for more people to find me and to validate that my decision is for my highest good and joy.  This "Lightworker name game" I had published in July had made its way in cyberspace...  and someone had the intuition to post it in the Soul Coaching (R) Oracle Card Reader closed study group, not knowing that the author of that game (me) was taking the class!  What a surprise for me to see my creation staring at me as I logged on to the class' page - and to see all the fun interaction people were having!

I have received many questions on the various names, energies and vibrations I introduce in this game.  Tonight, I feel it is time to publish a short text I wrote back in 2010 and tucked away on my computer.  I am still feeling vulnerable for sharing these channelled creative work - and yet I am happy to share.  Perhaps this work is part of my mandate?

And now, take a deep breath...  and meet the Blue People, as I felt them whispering to me a cool Fall evening in 2010.

***********


The rumblings could not be ignored any longer. The vibrations from the core were getting louder, deeper, stronger. Even from above, the tremors could be felt. Clouds of red were enveloping this jewel in the sky. We should have left already, but it is so difficult to just leave and abandon what we have called home for so many millenniums. But it was time for us to move along as a people. All our lessons here have been learned, except from the final cosmic detachment we are now collectively experiencing.

And so it was that we were hovering over our red planet as the volcanoes were erupting, as ash was spewed into the atmosphere. Our home needed to destroy itself for our final lesson – only we were still attached to it. Reluctantly, one by one, we were forced to remove the cosmic cords attaching us to it, learning to let go for the collective good: let go of all we have anchored here, of the great civilization we build here, of our fears and longing for our old stagnating ways. We chose to return to the God Consciousness. We needed to die to ourselves to stretch our knowledge, our boundaries, our spirituality.

Just as the last cosmic cord was cut, there was thunder in the sky and rumblings from the planet. Our home planet was cut in half, exposing its red center and sending wave after wave after wave of energy in the cosmos and beyond.

I can feel the final tentacles, like fine silk ribbons, detaching from their anchor points. As we weep our loss, we know we must join others in the search of this new beginning, of this other planet that will become our new home and will permit our passage to the next dimension. Our Soul School. Our promised Land. We will be its guardians and its students. As the last tendrils of our Cosmic Cords are burned in the healing fire of our dying planet, we move freely bound by nothing but pure energy. We try to understand and re-center ourselves in our new identity. It is the end, and with the end comes darkness.

It is this in-between period that I dislike the most. The time of not knowing, not controlling. How do I get there from here? Where is “there”? How will I recognize it? There is nothing to hold on to in the in-between period, as everything old needs to be released but everything new has not yet been found. Old wounds need to heal before new skin can grow, and you’re left with the pain, sadness and agony… but somehow moving to freedom and joy.

But as we float further away from our beloved red planet, gently following the energy waves in the great cosmos, we know it is the time of rest between the grieving and the new beginning; the time to give everything over to the God-consciousness which will always protect and nurture our Souls.

Spiritual Guidance for August: Breathe, Relax, Repeat.

It is my pleasure to share with you this oracle card reading! The question I asked, on our collective behalf, is for Spirit to communicate the next step we can take individually and as a group to raise our vibration while serving the Highest Good. Like many other Lightworkers out there, I am feeling the urge for change and the inner battle between the status quo and the unknown outcome of personal and spiritual growth. Fear is showing its tentacles and tries to seduce back from awareness. Several clients have raised the same issue this past month. As a collective, we are called to change and evolve and yet we’re afraid. Being aware of this fear and its roots, I ask for Spirit to guide us so that we may keep up the faith and our courage for a continued "Awakening-with-the-big-A"…

Decks used: John Holland “The Psychic Tarot”; Sonia Choquette “The Answer Is Simple”; Colette Baron-Reid “Wisdom of the Hidden Realms”

Two cards came out of the deck to represent us this month, as we deal with the energy of change and with the fears that are coming up to the surface: the 8 Wands (reversed) and the 5 Swords (reversed). Many of us, in our awakening process, have made wishes upon the stars; we have worked diligently on vision boards; we have partnered with Spirit so that we can serve the Highest Good since, bottom line, that is the biggest wish we hold in our heart. Now, these wishes and visions are coming true! We are faced with the physical manifestation of what once was only a thought or a wish. We realize now that a thought or a wish is not as frightening as its actual manifestation... As Lightworkers, we are often just as scared of success than we are of defeat. In past lives, we might have developed our spiritual qualities but were seduced by the dark side, or were forced to serve someone else’s ego instead of the greater good. We know of the karmic consequences of these alignments and we want to remain centred on Light and Spirit this time around. On the one side, we are elated that our dreams are coming true, yet this same elation makes us want to slam on the brakes. After all, what would this all mean if we have tangible proof that we are co-creators, that Spirit listens to us, that we do have the power to create the life of our dreams? Are we ready for this responsibility? Are we ready to receive all this goodness coming our way? Would it be too much for our lower self to handle? We are reminded that how we handle ourselves at this time is vital to our overall well-being. We are reminded to surrender to higher powers and to trust the flow of life. We are being tested on how well we can take our next step, and we must remember that life brings us many opportunities where we can choose to learn and grow.

Our next best action is clear: to be patient! Something powerful is in the works. We must find ways to cope with the anxiety bubbling up, and learn to relax and rest in the knowledge that only good can come from a transformation that is divinely inspired. The Universe will support our divine spirit in all of its sacred aims. The big change we are fearing will not come with a big BOOM like thunder in the sky; rather, it will be gentle and calm. It will blossom in its own time and will be as gentle as the petals of a flower opening up in the morning dew.

The Shadow Queen is our Ally as we learn to be patient with ourselves, as we notice that we are all but students of life and that we may not be as masterful in all areas as we’d like to think. She too advises to slow down the pace: details beyond our comprehension are preventing us to move at this time. Her lantern will shed light on inner and outer circumstances. As we wait for more to be revealed, she advises that we educate ourselves about our intention. We have to dig deep within ourselves to find courage. We are asked to put ego aside as we ask experts for help and advice. There is shadow and darkness looming – but we can learn from this. Keep your inner light shining during this time of transformation!

The likely outcome of this transformation, if we heed the advice of our guides and tend to our inner light, is the healing of past heartbreaks and emotional pains, as indicated by the 3 Swords reversed. We may finally understand that our feeling of separation from Source is only a perception, an illusion. We may finally understand what it means to truly love ourselves and to practice self-care. We will learn from past painful experiences and from life’s challenges, and we will become stronger as we move on. We will get through this transformation phase stronger, more wholesome, lighter and more joyful than ever before. We will realize that we have all the tools we require to guide and direct our life. Our increased Awareness will boost our psychic abilities as we partner even more closely with Spirit. We will more readily accept divine Magic and Miracles in our life, and our faith in the greater good and in the goodwill of humanity will be renewed.

Wow – that’s a tall order we have before us my friends. I feel better already have written these lines, inspired by Spirit through my Oracle cards. I hope that you, too, can feel a sense of ease. We will get through these trying times, and the more we relax into the flow the easier it will be.

Here is what I do to help me stay centred:

• I practice the “Breath of Life” exercise as taught by Sonia Choquette. Taking 15 minutes everyday to energize my body, set a happy intention and connect with Source is crucial. 
• I regularly stretch using yoga poses and breath work. 
• I read books and resources that support my inner peace and help me grow personally and spiritually 
• I tend not to watch the news as I know the way the news are handled feed the fear factor 
• I participate in online groups that send Love and Healing to various parts of the planet and its inhabitants of all forms. 

To support one another, share your tips and techniques to create your inner sanctum. How do you create peace within yourself to weather storms and shadows? How can I help you if you are struggling with fear? Can I teach you any of my techniques and support you energetically through Reiki and spiritual coaching?

Share your action below to place it in the energy grid.

Gardening Meditation: past successes can be dead weight

I have beautiful "Fairy Roses" in my front garden.  The rosebush, about 4 feet in diameter, was in full bloom when I took this picture in June.  Aren't they gorgeous?  I have never seen so many blossoms and flowers at once on this plant.

For most of June and July, the blooms kept coming and then dying away...  and I became secluded in my office as I wrote almost non-stop to prepare manuals and documentation, to do research and to tune-in to my Higher Consciousness and Spirit as I prepared for my new Lightworker Development Program. I did neglect my garden during that time.  The vegetable patch in the back was overrun by weeds and the gorgeous rosebush in the front looked grey, faded and heavy.

Now that I have put my books and writing aside for a few days to enjoy the sunshine and the success of last weekend's training, I put energy back in my garden.  Gardening is a wonderful time for me to feel connected to the Earth, to the food I eat and to the beauty that surrounds us.  The hours I spend weeding and pruning bring me great satisfaction as I reconnect body-mind-spirit.  It's a wonderful time for active meditation.  As I tell my students, meditation is not just about sitting in lotus pose and trying to avoid the thoughts that come to your mind; meditation can also be active, when you garden or cook or do dishes.  It's when you allow your thoughts to ebb and flow while being a distant observer of your mind.  And it's about grabbing on to a thought that feels like a lesson when you recognize it entering your consciousness - and then releasing it with the other thoughts.

My "revelation" today came as I pruned my rosebush.  It looked so tired and faded.  It looked flattened, all branches flat on all sides and nothing in the middle.  It looked sad.  As I pruned away the heavier branches and removed the dead flowers, the thought occurred to me that past successes can be burdensome, just like a spent flower can weigh down a plant.

Have you had instances in your life when you felt you had to live up to a past success, and its weight, or the fear of never doing as good again, was almost paralyzing?  Or are you stuck in a thinking pattern where things were much better in the past, and even the difficulties have almost a saintly glow while the present looks bleak and the future even bleaker?  Or maybe you can recall a child prodigy with tons of trophies and certificates or movies and achievements, who is living a very seemingly messed-up adulthood for lack of being able to outgrow the "rut" past successes have carved?

In spiritual circles, we often talk about cutting away karmic cords tying our energy to negative life events, people and emotions.  Perhaps it would also be good to look at our attachments to the good things in life, too.  Maybe at times we are too attached to past successes that we forget to live happily in the now time.  We forget to create beauty now for fear that it won't be viewed as good as the beauty of our past.  We go dormant and are unable to bloom in our present because our energy is still drained by the past, that we are reliving daily in our mind like a nostalgic movie.

I have experienced the effect of this nostalgia in my public service career.  One of my mandates was to develop a change management tool and training for a nation-wide initiative.  One of the personality types I encountered was the "Everything was so good 20 years ago, and then you changed it all to this new initiative, and then changed it again.  Things were so good then I don't know why it was ever changed in the first place.  And now you're changing it again with so many elements from 20 years ago.  It's just ridiculous." This personality type resisted change.  And sometimes this personality didn't go as far back as 20 years; I've noticed it in a still-green manager for whom things "at her old place of work" were much better, the team was more friendly, the projects were more juicy...  Although going back to the past to learn lessons from experiences - successes and failures both - can enlighten the present, being stuck in the past - however good it was - is not helping the present at all.  Commiserating on the past is not bringing solutions to present situations.  Being in the grips of the past is disempowering and can stop someone from evolving and growing.

How can I apply this lesson in my life?  Well, up until last October, I was working in corporate world until my body and mind could no longer cope with a job that was not in resonance with the call of my higher self.  Although I LOVE and am so happy with the life I am creating now, everyday, a part of me is still stuck in the past.  That part of me is the one who really enjoyed the stability and security of steady income.  Whether I was busy or not, productive or not - I still received the same good paycheque right in my bank account every other week.  Income is much more fluid now as I start and grow my own business and draw upon some savings...  Remaining stuck on the "it was so nice when my paycheque was so stable" might be a roadblock, or a road-sign in my journey.  If I stay stuck in that energy, I might feel I have no choice but to return to a stable income in the corporate world.  Will I be able to see the opportunities for growth when the risk of an unsteady income can be so scary?  Am I ready to dead-head that bloom of the past?

I also realized that one of the problems I experienced in my last job was that I felt undervalued.  I felt that my managers did not recognize the wealth of experience I was bringing to the team.  I felt they treated me for less than I deserved.  In previous jobs, I participated in inter-departmental committees overseeing the policy development for the whole country, and now I was relegated to a cubicle with my opinion questioned at every turn.  I realized today that because I felt I had more value in the past, I felt disengaged in the present.  And I was very likely a tid bit arrogant - how dare they question me?  How could they not know the knowledge and experience I have?  Oh the stress I put my mind and body through for living more glorious days in the past and not fully embracing the present...  And as I complained about "their" ego, here was mine going full steam ahead...

And I continued to trim away dead branches and spent flowers from my rosebush.  I felt its energy return - and it did help, I think, that there was a mist of rain falling.  The rosebush perked back up, looking like a bush again and ready to produce more buds and beautiful flowers, its leaves a deep green and resilient, shining in the warm July rain.

I put my gardening tools away, and now am working on my spiritual tools to cut away those past blooms and dead branches that I am still holding on to.  It's through pruning - the bad AND the good - that we can feel revitalized and healthy.  We can honour our past, and yet be fully present in the now; now is the time we have to co-create our reality.  What is done is done.  What we can do in our present and in support of the future we want depends on our thoughts and actions in this moment.

How about you?  What spent blossom are you holding on to?  What past glory are you ready to cut, so that you stop feeling weighed down and start feeling revitalized, whole and healthy?

How can I support you and help you?

I am sending you much Love and Light, on a carpet of fresh roses.

Quel est votre nom de Travailleur de Lumière?

J'ai créé un petit jeu pour s'amuser un peu - trouvez votre nouveau nom de Travailleur de Lumière et partagez-le ci-dessous. Mon nouveau nom "Maître-Guide de l'Anse-au-Cristal" :)

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