spiritual lifestyle
The Blessing Of True Friendship
Too often we make a self-limiting choices in life based on negative past experiences, which then keeps you from enjoying new, wonderful experiences, meeting new people, or learning a new talent or skill. To truly be free we must allow ourselves to let go and just be. We must remain willing to live an authentic life and selectively make ourselves vulnerable. Replaying the past over and over in your mind is draining and counter-productive.
I normally don’t open myself up easily to new friendships. I work with people all day, so that is how I get much of my social interaction. I love to help people and my clients are pretty much my family. I feel very connected to my regular callers, as they tend to be the most open-hearted and like-minded people. In my personal life I haven’t been so lucky, as many people are just not open to the alternative ideas, lifestyles and beliefs. In fact, some people are completely closed-off and narrow-minded about the mystical and the metaphysical.
I am not alone in this. A 2019 study, for example, revealed that the average American hasn’t made a new friend in five years. The study also found that he average american has three best friend and five reasonably good friends, as well as about eight people they like but do not spend any time with. However, this does not automatically guarantee that these people we consider to be our friends always feel the same way about us. A 2016 study found that this is probably only true for about half of friendships. Yes, only 50 percent of our perceived friendships are actually mutual and reciprocal!
Recently, I took a chance on a new friendship outside my work life, and I am very blessed to say that it reminded me that it’s okay to let the walls down so sometimes, and not to worry about stepping on toes or feeling like you have to walk on egg shells. I guess we just need to be smart about our choices. I have always been drawn to calm, centered, casual people who have a good sense of humor.
Conscious Living In A Fear-Based Culture
There are five basic emotions: fear, anger, grief, love and joy; in this order, because this is the order in which most humans experience these emotions.
I am sure you know many people who are fear-based. Perhaps you are fear-based yourself? Fear-based people have allowed our culture to blackmail them into believing that they must live up to certain standards to be acceptable.
For example, many people are dealing with this uncertain economy through the lens of “Oh, we must maintain the status quo, no matter what!”
Try to see this imagined burden for what it is: a mirage, not to mention an energy leak. This mirage stems from the fear that we won’t be able to keep up appearances; in other words not be able to afford the items that our fear-based culture with its lack consciousness and scarcity mentality decrees makes us acceptable to the status quo.
In fact, we could all do just as well with much less, and feel good about ourselves and our efforts; maybe even better because there would be more integrity in our energy, because we would be living in truth!
There are countless other ways our culture perpetuates this hoax. Think about it. I am sure you can think of many more examples. One way to break the chain of this mindless brainwashing is to realize it is really none of our business what others think of us, and vice versa.
Now, think of a squirrel. A squirrel just goes about his business of doing what squirrels do. If he stumbles upon a big, fat, juicy acorn, that is good. But if he doesn’t, he continues to go about his business just the same, and either way life is good, whether his fare is meager, robust or in-between. And, he isn’t concerned about what the other squirrels think about him either way.
Two Easy Ways To Start Meditating!
Meditation is the go-to spiritual practice for millions of people all over the world. Not only does it offer incredible benefits for clarity of mind and overall well-being, it is also a powerful self-care tool to help us navigate our lives for our highest good.
But, for newbies getting started with a meditation practice can be challenging at first. I often hear people say, “I can’t meditate, I fall asleep every time,” or “Oh, I tried meditating, but I got too distracted, because I can’t properly clear my mind.”
If this sounds like you, please know that many beginners struggle with the notion that in order to ‘properly’ meditate, one must sit motionless, eyes closed, and clear your mind of all thoughts, and that an inability to do so means that they’ve failed to meditate, or that meditation is ‘not for them.’
The truth is meditation is called a ‘practice’ because it really does take practice to develop and master. But that does not mean it has to be complicated or difficult. Anyone can learn to meditate. To develop your meditation skills more easily, I suggest you begin with a meditation routine in one of two ways: guided meditation, or nature meditation.
Guided Meditation
We have ease of access to guided meditations these days due to convenient advances in digital technology. Gone are the days of having to attend a meditation class in person, or struggling with audio cassette tapes! These days high quality guided meditations can be instantly downloaded or streamed from various websites, apps, and social media platforms. All you need is your smartphone, and a pair of earphones or a headset.
Your Personal Journey Into The Age Of Aquarius
We are in the midst of a monumental shift, a global awakening from the depths of our shared trials and tribulations. As we bid farewell to the Age of Pisces and embrace the dawn of the Age of Aquarius, a new worldview is unfolding before us.
Imagine a realm where consciousness evolves collectively, where spirituality transcends boundaries, and where we move as a unified force toward a brighter tomorrow. In this era of transition, as cosmic energies realign and ancient prophecies come to fruition, we are on the cusp of a renaissance of the soul.
The emergence of a new age beckons us to explore uncharted territories of consciousness and connection. Together, we are poised to embark on a journey of profound transformation and growth as we navigate this unprecedented juncture in our shared human experience.
Humanity has been evolving for thousands of years. Throughout recorded history, we’ve gained collective epigenetic wisdom in our cellular memory and the evolution of our DNA. This collective wisdom, or shared consciousness, has resulted in humanity’s greatest strengths and weakest shortcomings that are so evident today.
It is also now culminating in a global energetic transmutation and higher consciousness awakening that is gradually gaining momentum and will ultimately lead to our emergence from collective suffering. The Age of Pisces is ending and we are entering the new Age of Aquarius. The Age of Pisces was characterized by the energies of hierarchy, authority, patriarchy and dogmatic religion. In contrast, with the dawning of the Age of Aquarius, we are moving into a new era of enlightenment, unity and a more spiritually evolved global society. Humanity is throwing off the shackles of suffering, sadness and submission and stepping into the joys of assertiveness, empowerment and equality.
The Old Age of Pisces
The concept of the astrological ages of Pisces and Aquarius is rooted in ancient astrology, and each age lasts approximately 2,150 to 2,200 years, marking a period during which the vernal equinox passes through one of the twelve zodiacal signs.
The Age of Pisces is symbolized by the fish and is associated with themes of sacrifice, organized religion, and hierarchical structures. It has woven a profound tapestry of human experience, guiding us through the currents of sacrifice, suffering, and religiosity. Our collective consciousness has been shaped by the Piscean energies of this era, providing us with a lens through which to perceive adversity and transcendence.
The Age of Pisces has been a crucible for humanity, stirring the depths of our hearts and minds with the profound anguish that often accompanies spiritual growth. Through the veil of suffering, we have glimpsed the essence of our common humanity, fostering empathy and compassion that transcends individual struggles. The cosmic dance of Piscean energies has invited us to delve into the mysteries of existence, seeking solace in religious practices and communal bonds that bridge the chasms of pain and isolation.
As the Age of Pisces draws to a close, we stand on the threshold of a new dawn, witnessing the subtle yet powerful signals of a cosmic shift. The celestial symphony heralds the emergence of the Age of Aquarius, beckoning us into a realm of heightened consciousness and evolving social values. The fading echoes of Piscean sacrifice and spiritual formality pave the way for innovative new paradigms and transformative possibilities, leading us to a future filled with hope and enlightenment.
The New Age of Aquarius
As we bid farewell to the Age of Pisces, we usher in an era of conscious evolution, cosmic harmony and spiritual expansion. The Age of Aquarius heralds a new chapter in our collective journey toward enlightenment and oneness with the cosmos and the divine.
The Age of Aquarius is symbolized by the Water Bearer and associated with themes of innovation, enlightenment, and humanitarianism. It represents a shift away from hierarchical structures to more decentralized and egalitarian social models that emphasize equality and communal well-being. There will be an increasing emphasis on personal freedom, social justice and environmental awareness.
In the Age of Aquarius, we are called to embark on a journey of conscious evolution, both individually and collectively. This era encourages us to transcend our previous limitations, tap into higher states of consciousness, and explore the interconnectedness of all beings in the universe. As we align with the cosmic vibrations of Aquarius, we open ourselves to new possibilities for inner growth and spiritual enlightenment.
Technological advancement and intellectual progress will also be hallmarks of the Aquarian Age. One of the most exciting aspects of the Age of Aquarius is the harmonious relationship between technological advancement and spiritual development. In this new age, we have the opportunity to merge cutting-edge innovation with ancient wisdom, creating a synergy that can lead to profound positive change. By integrating technology with spirituality, we pave the way for a future in which progress serves not only material needs, but also the expansion of consciousness and the well-being of all.
The new Aquarian age will be characterized by certain key features:
Consciousness Expansion: Humanity will experience a collective expansion of consciousness, resulting in increased awareness, spiritual insight, and a deeper connection to universal truths.
Interconnectedness: Increased awareness of the interconnectedness of everyone and everything, and a shift toward a more unified and harmonious global consciousness. This includes a sense of oneness with nature, other sentient beings, and the cosmos. We will be united in our search for higher truths, deeper connections, and a more enlightened existence.
Nature Awareness: A focus on living in harmony with the natural world, recognizing the interconnectedness of all life forms, and promoting ecological awareness and sustainability.
Alternative Healing: The acceptance and promotion of alternative healing practices such as energy healing, crystal therapy, meditation, and other holistic approaches to wellness.
Higher Values: Humanity is moving away from materialism, consumerism, and self-centered pursuits toward values that prioritize spiritual well-being, compassion, and the collective good.
Egalitarian Values: More egalitarian and compassionate social structures with an emphasis on love, understanding, and cooperation as guiding principles.
Non-Traditional Spirituality: Openness to a wide range of spiritual beliefs and practices, drawing inspiration from diverse religious and mystical traditions, as well as esoteric and occult teachings.
Collective Illumination: A new era characterized by global spiritual enlightenment, higher wisdom, and freedom from the perceived limitations and conflicts of the past.
Individual Enlightenment: Emphasis on personal and individual spiritual growth, with more people undertaking transformational journeys, exploring alternative spiritual practices, and adopting holistic lifestyles. The Age of Aquarius offers us the opportunity to redefine our relationship with ourselves, with each other, and with the universe as a whole.
Timing Of The Transition
All of the above seems really great! But there is one small problem: no one knows for sure when exactly the Age of Pisces will end and when exactly the new Age of Aquarius will be in full swing. According to many astrologers and psychics, we are already transitioning from the Age of Pisces to the Age of Aquarius, but the exact timing of this transition is not universally agreed upon. The timing of the transition cannot be precisely defined, and opinions vary as to when and how quickly this shift will occur.
In astrological terms, the Age of Aquarius is based on the astronomical precession of the equinoxes, which is a gradual and continuous shift in the Earth’s axial rotation. Essentially, the Earth’s axis undergoes a slow, cyclical wobble over a period of about 26,000 years. During this precessional cycle, the apparent position of the vernal equinox (the point at which the Sun crosses the celestial equator from south to north) slowly shifts along the ecliptic, the apparent path of the Sun across the sky. The ecliptic is divided into twelve constellations, each corresponding to about 30 degrees of celestial longitude.
Currently, the vernal equinox is still in the zodiacal sign of Pisces, based on the tropical zodiac commonly used in Western astrology. However, due to the precession of the equinoxes, the vernal equinox is gradually moving from Pisces to Aquarius, which it will not fully reach until around the year 2600 A.D., which is approximately 576 years in the future (from the year 2024) based on the Gregorian calendar.
Astrologers however do not agree on the timing and therefore place the Age of Aquarius anywhere between the 20th and 22nd centuries. Some suggest that it began as early as 2012, while others believe that the Age of Aquarius is yet to arrive. Many view it not as a specific date, but instead a gradual shift. They see its influence as growing over time rather than a sudden transition. Even within specific methodologies, there is disagreement about the exact date. Moreover, the dates themselves only mark the astrological shift; the real-world changes associated with the age may not always align perfectly. The exact date or timing of the transition remains open to interpretation.
Embracing The Aquarian Frequency
The good news is that we do not have to wait decades or even centuries for the energies of the new age to unfold in our lives. We can begin now to work on our own auric energy vibration to get to that frequency personally sooner. I imagine that this personal spiritual journey is like a merge sign for a highway on-ramp. You have to merge gradually in the right direction; you cannot just flip your car off the bridge and onto a new path!
This gradual transcendental merging can be achieved through various lifestyle strategies and spiritual practices. Here are some you can explore to help you raise your energy vibration and embrace the dawning of the new Age of Aquarius:
SELF-AWARENESS
Engage in practices that promote personal growth, self-awareness, introspection, and self-discovery, such as meditation, mindfulness, or journaling. Reflect on your beliefs, values, and purpose in life, seeking alignment with higher ideals and discovering your true essence.
Practice mindfulness in your daily activities, bringing awareness to each moment to connect with the higher frequencies of the new age. Cultivate a positive attitude and focus on gratitude to foster a more harmonious and positive inner environment. Be open to new experiences and perspectives, embracing the fluidity of life and growth.
MIND-BODY WELLNESS
Embrace holistic approaches to health, including physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Consider practices such as yoga, tai chi, or energy healing for overall balance. Incorporate mind-body practices such as breath work and mindfulness to cultivate inner peace and mental clarity. Explore energy-based practices such as Reiki or Qi Gong to enhance your spiritual energy.
ESOTERIC EXPLORATION
Explore different spiritual traditions, philosophies, and practices to find those that resonate best with you. Listen to podcasts, read books, and attend workshops, seminars, or study groups that explore various metaphysical and esoteric topics.
INTUITIVE DEVELOPMENT
Develop and trust your intuition by exploring practices such as divination and dreamwork. Pay attention to synchronicities and signs that may be guiding you on your spiritual journey. Trust your inner guidance to navigate your spiritual path with clarity and purpose.
Get psychic readings from time to time from reputable counselors to validate what Spirit is telling you every step of the way, and to tame those “wiggly squiggles” in your mind – those unfounded fears about why something cannot or will not happen; those self-limiting doubts that keep us stuck.
NATURE CONNECTION
Cultivate a deeper connection with nature by recognizing the interconnectedness of all living things. Spend more time outdoors, practice eco-friendly habits, and support environmental causes. Reconnect with the natural world to ground yourself and tap into the healing energies of the earth.
Cultivate a sustainable and nature-friendly mindset and lifestyle by adopting practices and attitudes that prioritize the well-being of the Earth and its ecosystems. Begin by educating yourself about environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Stay informed about the impact of human activities on the planet and support sustainable and eco-friendly products and businesses. Advocate for policies and practices that promote sustainability at local, national, and global levels and use your voice to raise awareness.
CREATIVE EXPRESSION
Express yourself creatively through art, music, writing, or other forms of self-expression. Use your creativity as a means of connecting with your higher self. Engaging in creative activities induces a state of flow, where you lose a sense of suffering and ego. The immersive artistic experience leads to moments of heightened spiritual connection, allowing you to access a higher state of consciousness.
Artistic creations, including visual art, music, and poetry, also carry energetic frequencies. When you engage with or create high-vibrational art, you increasingly resonate with those frequencies, positively influencing your own energy.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Engage in acts of kindness, activism, and service to others to foster a sense of compassion and interconnectedness and to promote healing and positive change in the world. Volunteer or contribute to causes that align with your values.
Extend compassion and empathy to others. Embrace the richness of diverse perspectives and cultures within our global community and honor the interconnected tapestry of humanity. Join or create discussion groups to share insights and experiences.
Connect with like-minded people through spiritual or metaphysical communities. Harness the power of collective energy by participating in group meditations for healing and transformation.
Embracing The Ascension Journey
Remember that personal spiritual journeys are highly individual and these suggestions are intended only as general guidance. It’s important to explore and integrate practices that resonate with your personal beliefs and contribute positively to your own growth and well-being. However, being open to learning, adapting and evolving on your spiritual path is also a key aspect of the Aquarian journey.
Of course, we will still be present with some of the old fears, suffering, neuroses, and limiting beliefs that continue to echo in the Piscean Age, but nothing prevents us from embarking on a more self-empowering New Age journey into the Aquarian future.
Pisces is the sign of intuition, magic and the underdog. What better sign to emerge from than the last sign of the zodiac! We have received much wisdom from our ancestors. Now we are ready to move forward together to manifest new blessings and a more enlightened future for humanity. We will create new innovations, exceed expectations and surprise ourselves.
The keyword phrase traditionally associated with the zodiac sign Pisces is “I believe.” In astrological terms, each zodiac sign is linked to a specific phrase that encapsulates its characteristic qualities. “I believe” reflects Pisces’ association with intuition, spirituality, and a strong connection to the unseen realms. As our crown chakra opens more fully, we will naturally let go of our need to ask so many questions about our collective future. We will simply know. In astrological terms, the two-word phrase associated with the sign of Aquarius is “I know.” It reflects Aquarius’ association with intellectual pursuits, innovation, and a strong sense of individuality and knowledge.
The Age of Pisces has sculpted our souls with its ethereal touch, preparing us for the wondrous odyssey that awaits us in the luminous realms of the Age of Aquarius. Let us navigate this celestial dance with open hearts and awakened spirits, embracing the mysteries of the universe with courage and grace.
May healing energies abound for all of us as we move forward into a new age. We are truly in the darkest hour before the dawn. Let us step into this new era with optimism, hope and willingness, for the Universe is now calling us to co-create a brighter, more enlightened future.
Some Days Are Diamonds
Some days in life stand out as exceptional, memorable and even magical. Personally, I have experienced several such days to date. I can recall each of these enchanted days vividly, because of the way everything seemed to fall into place perfectly, from start to finish. On these days there were amazing synchronicities with people, places, events and circumstances that all came together to create the perfect moment in time. In these moments I felt completely aligned within myself, everyone else around me, as well as the entire Universe.
It’s been a while since I had such an amazing day. The Covid-19 pandemic especially have played a role in this, causing for me a sense of disjointedness and isolation. I made a real effort to get out of the house as much as possible, even having lunch here and there by myself. I even attempted to strike up new friendships, but none of these connections quite gelled or there was a lack of follow-up on either side. I accept that those potential new friendships simply were not meant to be.
It is said that our deepest, longest-lasting friendships are formed earlier on in life. For me this is true, as I remain in touch on a daily basis with friends I left behind a few years ago when leaving South Africa. Some of those individuals have since scattered to various corners of the world, but many of us still stay in touch, even if only to touch base now and again. Then there are also those special friends that I communicate with almost every day, from Bali to South Africa, to South America, and beyond. We are blessed these days to have the internet to be able to do this.
I also formed some online friendships during the height of Covid pandemic through various spiritual and metaphysical groups online, and I have been keeping in touch with some of these acquaintances in other parts of the world.
The Babysitter’s Near-Death Experience
While I was working out at the gym one day, I saw a little old lady who used to babysit me and my brothers when we were little children. I will never the wonderful times we had with her. She was always making it so much fun. She wasn’t on the phone all the time or watching television. She wasn’t ignoring us kids like so many of the other babysitters my mother sometimes hired for us.
When I spotted her and her daughter in the gym, I walked over to greet her, and told her that I remember her very well. I also thanked her for giving me some wonderful memories and teaching me so many valuable life lessons. The one thing I specifically remember her telling me was to always be careful about what we “put into our minds.”At a young age she had already made me realize that what we think about can either help us or harm us. I have always held on to that wisdom in my life. Because it is truly worth more than gold.
One time, I asked her how she knew so much about things. She looked at me and said,“Moon, you know what, I died once.”
“What? No way!” I responded. I went to catholic school growing up, and near-death experiences were certainly not the kind of thing we were learning about in class.
“Yes, I was in the hospital,” she continued. “I had a major operation and I could not wake up afterwards.” Apparently, she had flatlined during surgery and they had struggled to revive her.
“I am very lucky to be here,” she said and then shared some very interesting things with me about her near-death experience (NDE). I still remember that when she first left her body her parents were both there to meet her and she could hear loved ones on the other side of the tunnel having fun. I also remember she said she felt like a ball of light at the time and that it felt so good. The next moment she was being pulled back into her body. Continue reading
The Spiritual Path Of The Wandering Nomad
A recent chat with a relative about my plans for the future reminded me of a first cousin who once remarked on my nomadic lifestyle, “You really don’t seem to stay in one place for more than ten minutes!” A friend once also pulled my leg about needing to buy a new Rolodex, because I was filling hers up with all my constantly changing addresses from all over the world (those were the days before contacts could be more easily stored on a smart phone).
According to Astrology, I was supposed to get settled early in life as a Cancerian, by creating a permanent home and haven, and having a family with several children. Well, this was never the case. I thought the desire to settle down might come as years passed, but it never happened.
I also never became broody. I would become motherly over a puppy, kitten or other young animal, but I never felt the desire to have children of my own.
Over many years of personal growth and spiritual exploration, I have gained a deeper understanding and greater clarity regarding the choices I have been making in this lifetime.
Astrologically, for example there is a strong Gemini influence in my natal chart which is contributing to my restlessness, as well as Leo fueling my creativity and my sense of determination. I am not am expert astrologer by any stretch of the imagination, but the way it was explained to me by a professional astrologer made perfect sense.
A past life regression session also revealed that I had conceived many children in previous incarnations and that the desire to have offspring of my own this time around was not a part of the blueprint.
I found the matter particularly challenging when I was younger. I would be dating a wonderful guy who really wanted to settle down with me and longed to have a family, but the mere thought of having my wings clipped by marriage and motherhood was always unthinkable to me. So, many good relationships ended because we really were not on the same page about settling down and having children.