The Seven Signs Of Spiritual Awakening
We live in a world that loves the idea of results. “I lost twenty pounds,” we might say, or “I was chosen as employee of the month at work.”
On the spiritual side of things, though, there is no such thing. The universe does not operate on human terms. Which is why, when it is time for us to experience spiritual awakening (also called Epiphany), it cannot be measured or quantified.
Also, when we do finally awaken, it is only the first step in a much longer journey. Think of it as that little ball of snow that starts rolling down a hill, only to become much larger as it goes.
This process does not have to be a painful or difficult one. In fact, when we do begin to awaken, we will start to see the falsehoods, illusions, and painful truths of our lives within the “real” or physical state, as opposed to those in the spiritual realm. It is like having our eyes opened much wider to a greater truth. Continue reading
The Ancient Art Of Smudging
There are many effective ways to purify ourselves of old baggage or toxins in our lives. A great place to start is a very ancient art popular among indigenous peoples known as “smudging.” This refers to the burning of sacred or blessed herbs, or grasses to cleanse yourself and your space.
If you are just beginning try burning sage, one of the most popular and fragrant herbs. As you become more adept, you may want to customize your herbal blend. Bundles may be purchased at an esoteric store, or a Native American or natural market, and burned in a vessel of your choice.
Before you start, make sure there are no fire hazards and open a window or two for ventilation. When you light your sage stick, make sure you are only using the leaves and not the other parts. Continue reading
Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life
All of us have had at least one day in our lives when we’ve done nothing but talk down to ourselves: we’re not good-looking enough, or wealthy enough, or talented enough. It’s okay, once in a while, but for some this habit becomes a lifelong form of self-torture. It becomes a kind of self-fulfilling prophecy.
Did you know the same thing happens when we focus our energy, and our self-talk on the positive?
No matter your belief system, positive thinking energy is good for you: it will increase your mental clarity, boost your immunity, and help you live a longer, more fulfilling life. It is beneficial to see the glass as half full. Like a mirror, the universe reflects back what we put out to it. Ever heard the saying “garbage in, garbage out?” The same is true of our thoughts. What we focus on becomes our reality … whether this is negative or positive. Continue reading
Start Your New Year Right With A Vision Board
The concept of a vision board as a tool to manifest your desires is simple. Since most of us tend to get distracted very easily, the board is a constant reminder of what we want and the steps we need to take toward our goals.
In short, a vision board is a visual reminder of our hopes and dreams, along with affirming words or sayings. Like people, no two are the same, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to make one for the New Year.
When making your personal board, it’s best to be as specific as possible. For example, almost everyone might say: “I wish to be successful in life!” But really read between the lines. Is this a promotion at work? A better relationship with friends or family? Choose pictures or words that represent exactly what you want. If you only say “I want to travel,” it is not as specific as pictures of a Hawaiian beach or Big Ben in London. If you need a new car, find a photo of the exact make and model. Continue reading
Heliotherapy – Let The Sunshine In!
As winter is upon us in the Northern Hemisphere, for many of us it’s also the onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as “winter blues” or “winter depression.” Since most of us can’t afford a month-long trip to a tropical island to offset our melancholy, what can we do holistically and naturally to restore ourselves to balance?
Many of us spend our waking hours almost entirely indoors. We wake up when the sun is just rising, work for many hours, and then go home when it is already setting again. This is artificial and unhealthy.
Our ancestors, who were free from our modern lifestyle diseases, never would have experienced it. We need sunlight to grow, to heal, and to thrive, which is why SAD, in these months of diminished sunlight, can be so debilitating.
Make it a priority to get outside and take in the natural light. Without the Vitamin D and other nutrients we need, it’s easy for us to slip into a downward spiral. In addition, natural sunlight has benefits such as lowered blood pressure, a stronger immune system, and improved mood. Continue reading