As we celebrate Earth Day I am focusing on my very favorite walking meditation and planning to return to the labyrinth. Saturday, May 4th will be World Labyrinth Day. Many of you may have walked the lovely labyrinth with me in St. Helena, California at Grace Episcopal Church or at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco. If you are unfamiliar with the Labyrinth, you can visit: www.veriditas.org for more information. And/or check out Walking the Sacred Path by Dr. Lauren Artress, the grandmother of the modern day labyrinth. When Lauren Artress first arrived at Chartres Cathedral in Chartres, France in 1992 with a few friends, the labyrinth laid in the floor was covered with chairs and had not been utilized for quite some time. Perhaps it was once a pilgrimage … continue reading
Do You Trust Your Intuition?
When Life Gets Too Lifey
As my friend often says, “Life is just getting too lifey right now!“ Do you relate? We just saw the brightest rainbow ever! Although I do my best to avoid the news, even just a brief glance at the headlines these days gives me the shivers… Please join me in returning, once again, to daily self-care practices: Wellbeing Practices – No Matter What! 1. Sip warm, juicy water all day long – We are all running around dehydrated without realizing it. Sipping water throughout the day, rather than coffee, soda or juice, will help to clear and calm your mind and body. Room temperature or warm water with a little juice in it is easier to absorb than ice cold water. 2. Awareness of your breath – Whenever you feel tired, stressed … continue reading
Preparation for Meditation
For years and years I attended Meditation classes, read books and did my best to Meditate on my own. I was motivated by my desire to quiet my mind and relieve chronic anxiety and stress. Then, in my forties, I was guided to the Expanding Light at Ananda in Nevada City, California for personal retreat, and made a decision to attend Ananda Yoga Teacher Training and ultimately Meditation Teacher Training. That was over twenty-five years ago. At the Expanding Light they not only train Yoga and Meditation teachers, everyone is invited to come to the retreat center, for personal retreat to practice together morning, noon and night. Cozy accommodations and delicious vegetarian meals are all provided, along with classes. Morning Sangha, or spiritual practice, begins … continue reading
Do You Trust Your Intuition?
More and more I’m curious about and fascinated by how I make decisions. I’ve noticed that when I ask a question for clarity, I receive one answer from my head and something different when I listen to my heart and body wisdom. Is that my intuition, a hunch, a gut feeling or my Divine guidance? Really good question. When I remember to pause, take a breath and listen within, I experience clarity about my choice. I believe that acting on that guidance (whether you feel that it is internal, from your higher self or the Divine presence). Sometimes I simply ask, “What is it I need to know or understand?” Open ended questions often result in very simple two word guidance, such as, “Slow Down.” … continue reading
Part of Me is Resisting Change
“Change is the sacred rhythm of existence, the one truth we can trust. Even our most difficult moments carry the seeds of renewal and growth.” Julie Schmidt Tapping to Relieve Resistance to Change Set Up Statement: (tapping on the side of the hand) Even though I’m so resistant to change, I’m acknowledging how I feel and allowing the energy to move. Whatever part of me that’s holding on, consciously or unconsciously, for whatever reason, I now choose to be open and receptive to new possibilities. I love and accept myself and all of my feelings. Reminder Statements: (tapping around on the body points) All this resistance, all this resistance, really feeling it in my body. Wonder what is holding me back? All this resistance to change. Part of … continue reading
I Was Moved To Tears This Morning
I was moved to tears this morning with gratitude for my strong, flexible healthy body, for my home, my husband, my cat, my family and friends and for all of you – my extended community. I am so grateful for all of the blessings in my life!
Just reading “Radical Compassion” by Tara Broch and this is what jumped out at me:
Tara asks, “What does the wanting energy want to experience?“ This is what came to me when I responded to the question: To relax – to be part of something To make a difference To be connected and accepted To be seen and heard To feel safe and protected To be honored and acknowledged for who I am – just as I am Wow! That’s a tall order. And I feel better just having written/typed that list of wants. Perhaps you are willing to answer this question for yourself. Write the question in your journal and write down what comes up for you – it may be surprising! I’m noticing that none of this is materials things – it’s all about beingness. Very interesting… Tara … continue reading
Where Are You Holding On & Refusing To Forgive?
We need to choose to release the past and forgive everyone, ourselves included. We may not know how to forgive, and we may not want to forgive, but the very fact that we say we are willing to forgive begins the healing process. Louise L. Hay – You Can Heal Your Life Hello dearies, This week I was introduced to a Forgiveness Process by Vishen Lakhiani from MindValley that leads to clearer intuition, connection, guidance and mind/heart coherence. Identify a person or act to forgive – someone you genuinely love and care for – including your younger self. Create a safe and healing space in your imagination with that person. Communicate to them the circumstances that occurred. Allow yourself to feel the deep pain/anger/frustration fully … continue reading
Turning Up the Heat!
As I continue to turn within and ask – what am I releasing that no longer serves me? – I touched a memory that is very tender. When I left home at 18 I did not go to my grandmother, Leah’s, house. I went to my godmother, Joan’s, house. I didn’t consciously decide, I just got up in the morning and started walking and ended up at my godparent’s house. Joan answered the door and said, “I’ve been expecting you. Where is your brother?” My younger brother had decided to stay at home and finish high school. I still feel sad that he lived longer with my parents, which couldn’t have been good for his mental health. In the process of leaving home, I also left my grandmother, … continue reading
A Story From When I Wasn’t So Healthy & Happy
“I think it’s important to tell it. Maybe it will help educate or inspire other people so they too can do something, they too can make a contribution.”A quote from Senator John Lewis in the Times magazine about why he told the story of the civil rights movement over and over again. Hello dearies, I wanted to share a story with you today about transformation, inspired by Senator John Lewis. Most of my current clients and students see me as a healthy, happy coach and teacher. Happily married and loving life. No challenges, right? Well, it hasn’t always been this way. Steve and I have been happily married for over 35 years. Amazing to acknowledge that! We give thanks every day for our connection, friendship and enduring … continue reading