St. Patrick: Loving Magic

Shutterstock licensed image: St. Patrick Was Full Of Love

The Loving Magic of St. Patrick

Have you ever thought to yourself, “If only I could find just a teeny tiny bit of luck!”? Maybe you’ve been out of work, enduring endless job interviews, or you’re on the tenth blind date this year. Or maybe you’re going through a challenging time emotionally or psychologically. If you’re feeling down on yourself or your luck, it might be time to lean into the loving magic of St. Patrick.

After all, even when deceased, high-vibration souls like his still emanate light and love. Just like any deity we can tap into this vibrant soul’s divine light.

Sure, it might not be March 17th, but his legacy and healing aura extends throughout time. St. Patrick is a man, a devotee of God, and a legend who can guide us and help us learn more about ourselves. In turn, we can manifest new paths and find happiness without the need to rely on luck.

So, how can St. Patrick do all this for us?

Who is St. Patrick?

While St. Patrick has emerged a legend, he lived in the 5th century. One of the things that made him so unique was that he understood the nature of human beings and the Universe. He looked to the divine, yet he was practical in how he served inhabitants of the earth. Additionally, his work was so profound, he deeply impacted Irish, Catholic, Christian, and global cultures for centuries – any milleniums to come.

Modern historians often paint a simple, gentle picture of St. Patrick, as he walked among the Irish, but his life was difficult, full of challenging experiences and painful decisions. Just like you and me, he had to come to know himself and choose his path one hurdle at a time. Once he tapped into his soul and found his divine strength and resolve, this wonderful saint drew from his will power to touch the lives of many individuals throughout time.

The myths of St. Patrick are among the most inspiring in all of human history. Many believe he used clovers as a way to teach a new belief system. Others say he was the first significant leader in history to reject the practice of slavery. It seems this dynamic soul affected the spiritual and political lives of many people.

If you’re looking for the facts of St. Patrick’s life, he was born in Great Britain and torn from his family at the age of 16. Broken hearted, lost, confused, destitute, and without a single companion, young Patrick was sold into slavery. This hardship was his first experience in Ireland, where he toiled as a herdsman and had no belongings to call his own. Instead of losing hope, St. Patrick turned to his faith, praying for guidance and relief.

Devout and loyal to the Divine, he knew that God would help him. He never wavered.

One night, St. Patrick dreamed of a ship that would carry him from slavery and back to his family. He broke from the dreamscape and left his slave owner in the middle of the night. He ran with all his might.

After many hurdles and further hardship, but with heroic determination, St. Patrick found his way back to his homeland. This successful escape might have been the end of his story, but St. Patrick could not ignore what he experienced in Ireland.

He eventually dreamed about the Irish begging for his return.

While he could not banish the chains of slavery that held an entire population, he set out to free the Irish people in another way. Once he made landfall, he immediately began evangelizing and converting the Irish to Christianity. While he was there, he suffered persecution and arrest, but these physical pains did not dampen his spirit.

With glowing love for the Irish and their freedom, St. Patrick fought to help them until his death.

The Powerful Icon of St. Patrick

The best account that we have today of St. Patrick’s life is the Confessio, his diary, in which he bared his soul. Thought to be written near to the time of his death, the Confessio shows the saint’s religious devotion and fervent love for the Irish. It also helps us to better understand his personality, struggles, and motivations. He was truly a remarkable human being!

When you step back and view St. Patrick from a distance, however, he is a powerful icon. Christianity upholds him as one of the most important and influential Christians to have lived. He is revered as a powerful force that converted Ireland from Pagan to mostly Christian. He is now the national apostle and patron saint of Ireland. And as luck would have it, Paganism survived the abuse it endured and is again flourishing today.

A large part of the symbolism, myth, and meditation on St. Patrick that exists today originated in the Catholic faith. St Patrick is often depicted with clovers, snakes, and a shepherd’s staff. This powerful imagery can help us to understand St. Patrick’s power and love of humanity. These icons can help us turn inward, expand ourselves, forgive everything, and become holy servants of humanity.

In many ways, Amma, The Hugging Saint is doing the same for all of the world, not just Hinduism. Check out Amma’s divine magic and global humanitarian mission HERE.

St. Patrick Symbolism

By the 7th century, St. Patrick’s legacy had grown  in numbers and spread throughout various parts of the world. Throughout history, St. Patrick’s image has been recreated, most commonly with his foot on a snake, as he held a wooden staff. These images are no coincidence. They emerged from true stories about his life. As you learn about these stories, consider meditating on the image of St. Patrick. This can help you center yourself and find strength within.

The Shepherd’s Staff

The shepherd’s staff is a symbol used in Christian tradition to represent tender yet strict leadership. Just as a shepherd tends to his flock of sheep, a person depicted with a staff is seen as a gentle father-like figure, guiding his followers. St. Patrick was both literally and figuratively a shepherd in Ireland. He was an enslaved herdsmen at first, and then he chose to tend to the Irish people in their need as a loving shepherd of the people. 

Today, we can rely on St. Patrick as our shepherd during difficult times, using his loving magic as a guide in our own lives.

Are you in need of guidance?

Are our heart and mind wandering far from afield?

Can you find the inspiration and strength you need to bring you back to yourself?

Go within, seek the help of St. Patrick and the depth of your own divinity. 

 

The Snakes

St. Patrick is often famously depicted with a snake under his foot, which originated from the legend that he drove all the snakes out of Ireland. While snakes never existed on the Emerald Isle, this legend actually uses snakes as a symbol for evil. Just like in the Garden of Eden story, the snake is a representation of evil and temptation. As we reflect on St. Patrick’s ability to cast out temptations and evil forces, we should identify the toxic habits, passions, and forces in our own lives and find ways to cast them out.

Three-Leaf And Four-Leaf Clovers

Finally, St. Patrick and his famous St. Patrick’s Day holiday are often tied to  three and four-leaf clovers. While three is the number of the Christian Trinity – Father, Son, And Holy Ghost, Four symbolizes the perfect triune’s connection to eternity and the concept of manifestation on three-dimensional planes.

The numbers three and four are extremely powerful. They are used as powerful symbols and tools beyond St. Patrick. 

For the Irish, the three Gods Brigid, Ériu, and the Morrigan held serious significance. With the image of a three-leaf clover, he converted the triple Goddesses of the Irish to the three Divine Beings of the Catholic faith. This imagery was so powerful that it eventually turned the innocent little three-leaf clover into the national flower of Ireland.

The number three can give us structure and guidance, just as St. Patrick did for the Irish.

You are far more capable and expanded than we often realize.

 

St. Patrick Miracles

St. Patrick holds such powerful love and magic that many of his works are still revered today. He recounts in his Confessio raising 33 men from the dead (see that “3” again?), many of whom had been gone for years. There are also reports that a herd of swine mysteriously appeared after St. Patrick prayed for food and water provisions for desperate travelers.

Whether you believe these events occurred or not, there is a powerful lesson here. St. Patrick’s strength and devotion poured out of him and created an undeniable movement that changed the world.

Forge Ahead, No Luck Needed!

Let’s learn from St. Patrick! No matter our circumstances or pains in life, we must turn inward and seek guidance. By meditating on the personality and symbolism of St. Patrick, we can better understand ourselves.

Doing so, we can tackle our challenges from more inspired angles.

If we believe in the Providence Of The Divine and the Power Of Love, we can cast out snakes, evil, and toxins no matter how and when they appear.

Take up your staff and join divine saints like St. Patrick. Your divinity can carry you anywhere. Stay positive, remain prayerful, and seek the light in all things. 

You might enjoy my Free Resources pages, as they offer many prayers and rituals that can heal, illuminate, and change your life.

THE SPRING EQUINOX: MAGIC OF BIRTH & REBIRTH

Shutterstock licensed image: Spring is a time of magic, life, love, and rebirth.

SPRING EQUINOX – THE MAGIC OF BIRTH & REBIRTH

Ahhh Spring! The sun outshines the moon, light overcomes dark, and life once again flourishes on the ground and illuminates our skies. We can feel Spring in our bones. Our guts tell us it’s time to get out there and create. We want to dance, play, and celebrate creation. 

Equinoxes mark a time when day and night are equally long. This is rare: the equally long day and night only happen twice in twelve months. During this time, we can experience palpable and delicious Earthly magic. The Spring Equinox is a time of rebirth for all life. We feel the sun’s energy penetrate and uplift our spirits. We hear the rippling of fountains and the pitter patter of light rain on our roofs. We have renewed hope and faith. Flowers bloom, Bees buzz, Bunnies appear, and ALL IS WELL!

The blossoming season is the embodiment of the connection and cooperation between all Living Beings. It’s during Spring that we feel our connection to every creature and all the luscious, invisible threads that bind us. Every creature rejoices during this time.

Spring is truly the embodiment of the Universe’s love for us.

TRANSITIONING FROM FALL TO SPRING

The Spring Equinox invites us to be truly reborn. During the fall and winter, we
pause, reflect, forgive, heal, and regenerate. After setting ourselves free from the past, we’re ready to flourish.

In case you missed the chance to move on from the lessons of the last year, try this on for size:

REFLECT – FORGIVE – ACCEPT – RELEASE

FORGIVING EVERYTHING, 

WE TRANSFORM OUR REALITIES.

In the Fall, during the Autumnal Equinox, we ask ourselves:

What has been holding me back?

What did I learn?

What can I forgive?

The Spring Equinox symbolizes rebirth as well as new life on Earth. Start your Spring Equinox change by revisiting the hidden parts of yourself that you evaluated in the Autumnal Equinox. By finding and opening the hidden that lives within you, you gain insight into your unique spiritual aspects and gifts – ones you may have never before allowed. Then, we can move on in celebration.

In the Spring, we ask ourselves:

What can I celebrate?

What can I create?

What can I embrace?

How can I give birth to joy?

What do I really want?

What do I truly love?

Where am I going?

Who is going with me?

What will I do when I get there?

THE VERNAL EQUINOX MARKS PROFOUND MOMENTS IN TIME

When the Spring Equinox is upon us, it means the Vernal Equinox is here. The Vernal Equinox is also known as the celebration of Ostara. It’s one of eight Sabbaths or festivals that make up what some people call “The Wheel of the Year.” Every turn of the wheel celebrates endings and births, and during Ostara, we celebrate the possibilities of new life and romance.

YES! It’s time to reflect on where you’ve been and where you’re going. During this section of The Wheel of the Year, it is the perfect moment to say to yourself:

I ALLOW MY PAST. I ACCEPT MY PAST. I RELEASE MY PAST. I RELEASE THE ASSOCIATED EMOTIONS TO ALL EVENTS AND IDEAS. I WILL NOT LOOK BACK. I WILL WALK BRAVELY FORWARD WITH LOVE, LIGHT, HOPE, FAITH, AND JOY!

 

OSTARA OPENS DOORS TO NEW POSSIBILITIES 

We are fascinated and obsessed with our attachments. We easily become blinded by our egos, temporary self-identities, emotions, and projections. Upon viewing one social media post, we can lose touch of ourselves and reality. When we allow this to continue for years on end, we put ourselves into vulnerable positions. After all, near the moments of our deaths, we will feel a surge of unresolved emotions, thrusting us toward a threshold that leads to the Beyond.

It takes courage to release everything that has been holding you back and blocking your connection to the Divine.

Why not begin this process now? 

Release the pain from your past and make way for space within you. Doing so, you will feel more whole and available to love.

Forgive yourself, forgive others, forgive everything. 

Try the Ho’oponopono process. Say these things in your mind to either yourself or another: I love you. I’m sorry. Forgive Me. Thank you. 

Repeat these things over and over again until you truly release. Deep and unlimited forgiveness will set you free.

AWESOME THINGS TO DO DURING SPRING EQUINOX

The three days during equinox provide you with the opportunity to change your perspective, cleanse your heart, and improve your health. 

  • Accept yourself for who you are.
  • Commit to a process that allows you to accept everything as a gift.
  • Commit to growing virtue.
  • Commit to living a Dharmic life instead of a Karmic one. Karmic lives involve contracts where you do this for me, I do this for you. Dharmic lives involve spiritual law.
  • Send love and gratitude to the living Earth.  
  • Pray for those who have harmed you. 
  • Pray for those whom you love.
  • Meditate every day.
  • Find small ways to serve others. A smile can be a tremendous gift to a sad soul. 
  • Do a toxicity cleanse using Ayurvedic herbs. Banyan is a wonderful company for this class of medicine. 
  • Clean the house.
  • Empty the attic.
  • Give away as much as possible to charities.
  • Lean to cook and garden.
  • Commit to exercise and yoga. 
  • Think of your favorite people and give them gifts that will make their lives better.

The Spring Equinox reminds us to be proactive and disciplined, telling us that infinite possibilities are within us. 

 

THE AUTUMNAL EQUINOX: Season Of Reflection

Shutterstock licensed image: Autumnal Equinox is the time to relax into and release emotions.

 

THE AUTUMNAL EQUINOX: The Season Of Reflection And Deepening

Every year, near the end of September, you might notice a change in temperature in the early evening. From there, the leaves are beginning to change colors and you might notice feelings of happiness, sadness, regret, and pride arise within you.

During this time, we might think about all those who helped us throughout the year and those whom we have helped. Using these thoughts as creative fodder, we might form visions and plans to enact in the new year.

The Autumn Equinox is the beginning of a period of pause, self-reflection, and dormancy. It’s a time of reassessment and inner-planning. It’s when humans, plants, trees, bugs, bunnies, birds, animals, and millions of soil inhabitants go deep within themselves. Even the life of bees is altered!

While it might appear as if everything is beginning to sleep, the energy systems of all of these beings are actually actively gathering strength and energy for a later time. Soon, we will all reemerge in the Spring. 

WHAT EXACTLY IS THE AUTUMN EQUINOX?

The Autumn Equinox is when we honor the harvests of our efforts. It’s when we reflect on who we are and why we’re here on this uniquely beautiful planet. During this time, we might also rethink our processes and procedures. We might even reassess our relationships. 

Certainly, the Autumnal Equinox is a time to process all of our emotions and experiences throughout the prior months, releasing the challenging aspects, celebrating the good, and fully embracing who we are in this moment. 

To take full advantage of the planetary influences and this magical time of year, you might explore performing the Seven Arrows Ceremony or Changing The Book Of Life Ritual found on my Free Resources pages. Through these simple processes, you can connect with the Divine, immerse yourself in the energies of Mother Earth, release emotional and intellectual toxins, and create a pathway to begin again.

WHAT SHOULD WE BE DOING DURING THE AUTUMNAL EQUINOX?

Indigenous cultures mark this time of year as an important period of self-reflection, renewal, growth, transition, and rebirth. To those who are deeply connected to the rhythms of the Earth and Cosmos, it’s a time to gather strength, release the past, deepen our resolve to be loving, vibrant Beings, and imagine new beginnings. 

During this time, we might even venture into exploring the experiences and potentialities around our own deaths. As death opens a door to a new life, so do the Autumn and Winter seasons.

During this equinox, we have equal hours of daylight and night. This is a great time to reflect on the balance of our public personas and our shadow aspects. Where there is light, there is openness and growth, where there is darkness, there is a great potential for learning and expanding. 

When we rest, it is a form of self-care. When we write in our journals to express our thoughts and emotions, it’s a form of self-love. This equinox is a time for silence and looking within.

Given that our lives are moving so quickly, with too many responsibilities, each of us needs time to decompress. If we can write in our journals, find tears of forgiveness, and make time for prayer, even for just a half-hour each day, we will set the stage to become fully rejuvenated, fresh, and expanded at the start of Spring.

For those of us who operate at a rapid pace, we might also need acupuncture, massage, herbal cleanses, and healing sessions. We might feel confused or broken during this time of pause. Be conscious of what you need and seek the healers and helpers with whom you most resonate. This is the time to invest in your healing and expansion. 

When we nurture our inner stillness, we improve our vibrations and allow for growth and positive change.

IMPROVE YOUR SPIRITUAL AWARENESS

As days are getting shorter and nights are growing longer, you might feel a little isolated or disconnected. Consider putting a support system in place. As you reach out to loved ones, you’ll find that everyone is processing something deep during the Autumnal Equinox. 

Truth be told, you are an expanded, connected, Light-Being with unlimited potential in every direction. To source your power and light, meditate 3 times per day, even if only for 5 minutes each time. This will have you know your core Self. Knowing who she is, you can align your personality and identity with her. As you depend on your spiritual practices, you’ll notice that your inner Being is far more expanded than you may have previously realized.

Given the holiday season and all its noise and complications, you might consider foregoing the traditional popular route and create new rituals – ones that truly connect you with God, the Universe, yourself, and those whom you treasure most.

A TIME FOR SELFLESS SERVICE

During these intense transition periods, you might feel that you are focusing too much on the past. If you are unable to truly be in the present, consider volunteering for a few hours every week or every day. By doing so, your heart will come to life and your connection to the Divine will deepen. 

When we selflessly serve others and when we pray for others, the Universe does the same in return. 

The Autumnal Equinox awakens the loving spirits who reside in the Earth’s soil. This time beckons the ancients and our long-ago relatives to nurture us. 

As you venture forward, choose love over stubbornness, hope over grumpiness, and light over shadows. During this equinox, you are being called to forgive, allow, accept, and release all aspects that do not serve your core nature and the light.

Forgive – Allow – Accept – Release

 

In all new endeavors, decide to be more aloof, less attached, and less dramatic. Decide to choose service over selfishness. During this time, you can create a whole new you. 

Take the time to meditate, forgive, cry, pray, and serve others. The seeds you plant within yourself during this time will give birth to a remarkable, luscious Spring.

 

 

Soulmates, Twin Souls, And Soul Groups, Oh My!

Soulmates are wonderful. The associated delusions around this concept are not. Shutterstock licensed image.

SOULMATES, TWIN SOULS, AND SOUL GROUPS, OH MY!

While every major event in our lives impacts our health, vitality, and happiness, there are few things more potent to us than romance and intimate relationships. That’s why so many people refer to the Chinese zodiac and Vedic astrology for insights and help with major decisions around love and marriage.

This begs the question: What is a Soulmate? What are Soul Groups? What is a Twin Flame?

Since the beginning of time, the stars and planets have given humanity and other life forms immeasurable hope, clarity, and guidance. In many countries, like China and India, the majority of people utilize astrology when making major decisions or when seeking love. They’ll regularly refer to their astrological charts and major planetary events to plan daily life and set future milestones. 

Our astrological charts can help us better understand our weaknesses and strengths amid our most challenging and promising life categories. Learning these things, we can project into the potentials around every aspect of our lives so that we might improve upon them.

Yet, if we live so obsessed with these planetary and energetic blueprints, we will miss the point: we’re here to learn to be present in this moment, accepting every event as divine. That’s why it’s said: A wise person consults the stars, while a foolish one is ruled by them. In all things, temperance. And before looking elsewhere, look within.

Your Soulmate is Important to Your Story

We’ve all romanticized the idea of having a Soulmate in our lives. We’ve dreamed of a “perfect person” who truly “gets us.” We’ve projected visions of divine, loving relationships and eternal fulfillment. Feeling that our soulmates will be perfect in every way, we might even imagine these evasive souls fulfilling our every desire, even holding our hands as we die. While these things are possible, it’s all fantasy. Instead of encouraging us to improve ourselves and look within, the new age tells us to look elsewhere. We rush into our fantasies, thinking this could be “the one.” It’s not. The over-promoted, new-age concept of Soulmate is flawed and so are we. 

Astrologically, Soulmates are perfectly aligned partners whose charts have harmonious aspects when compared to ours. Many aspects of chart alignments might point to a Soulmate relationship. The challenge is that we have personalities and history and hangups. Until we mastered the mind and release our egos, even our Soulmate relationships will become stale and problematic.

Positivity is one thing, delusion is another.

The concept of Soulmate is a romantic notion – and all romance is an illusion. If you are looking within and healing every fissure in your self-construct, you will continuously be merging with the Divine. By doing so, you will always be advancing your concept of relationships and temporary self-identity. 

If you can train yourself to look within, you will become very picky in relationships and will only choose partnerships when you can sense your inner Being aligning with them. 

You are the One that you are seeking. You are the loving soul who will save you. You are your best partner. From there, you can form co-interdependent relationships that honor Dharma instead of Karma. Karmic relationships are contractual – you do this for me and I’ll do this for you. Dharmic relationships require that you are responsible for your happiness – no one else.

That said, we still might find a Soulmate, rather, one whose temperament and self-concept are peacefully aligned with ours. 

It might also be that once you’ve depended and developed as a person, once you’ve extinguished selfish tendencies and your codependent self-concept, you might finally recognize a potential Soulmate. 

What Is A Soulmate?

In short, a Soulmate is a person who is aligned with our sensibilities and behaviors in a harmonious way. We will feel encouraged by a Soulmate. And we will want to be encouraging to them, at all costs. 

Soulmates are deeply nourishing to us, on levels that transcend physical form and circumstance. We attract one another due to our most positive, radiant qualities. Some of these qualities turn into actionable events, like devotion to a higher purpose, a mutual love of the Divine (God in some form), or providing selfless service to each other. 

To be able to handle having a Soulmate, we must look within and eradicate our ego. We must put ourselves in the position of a servant. There is no other way. 

The Pros and Cons Of Being With a Soulmate

Soulmate stories are found within almost every romantic poem, book, meme, and movie. The idea that we’re fated to be with someone has been around since humans first started pairing off. Romance and finding your soulmate is a universal language that transcends culture and time. 

While fate sounds like an interesting idea, fate is born from your trajectory, which you can change at any time by forgiving someone, releasing the past, or changing how you respond to circumstances.

Finding your “other half” can be an elusive challenge. After all, you might have many halves wandering the planet at any given time. Especially if you’ve been at it a while and find you’re still looking. The biggest challenge we have is that human beings too often idealize the concept of Soulmates, which creates an insane amount of pressure once we begin projecting that title onto someone. Romance is also marketed by unconscious companies and people, who have nothing better to do than encourage people’s delusions. Media outlets continuously reinforce our “missing-half status” by depicting unrealistic expectations and concepts in TV, movies, and advertisements. With these depictions, the media drives our sense of loneliness and separateness. 

Truth be told, we are never truly alone. We are merged with the divine. When you feel alone, pray or serve someone with love and light. 

Belief in the Soulmate concept or “destiny” can lead to poor communication within and with our potential partners. All relationships take effort and innovation because we are not communicating from our souls, we are communicating from contrived self-concepts that we continually re-fabricate based on what we want or feel at any given moment. This makes true relating very difficult.

How Does Astrology Help Us Find or Know Our Soul Mates? 

There are times when the stars do align for us, and we’ll find what feel to be Soulmates or “perfect” matches. When this happens, it doesn’t take long for us to share deep understandings with one another.

It might be that the understanding goes beyond words – like an intangible force in line with fate brought about by unforeseen forces. Our joint astrology can help us deeply enjoy our alignment with these people and find pathways around any potential struggles. Astrological, especially Vedic Astrology, can help guide the way.

If you want to start using astrological signs to move forward in finding a Soulmate, start with the Moon. The Moon represents the feminine aspect of our natures, which is a more receptive and creative soul. The Moon’s nodes represent who we are and where we’re going in this life. When someone’s personal planets or luminaries touch either the South or North nodes, it can yield a feeling of destiny. While this, too, is an illusion, it can give us the glue we need to develop commitment, loyalty, and a sense of service to this person.

Astrology Provides Hints

The core of Astrological influences comes from the energy we absorb from
the Universe and specific planets, such as mercury retrogrades. We can ingest and embody energies from our environments and other people in our lives, and we develop ‘subtle’ vibrations that will magnetize a variety of related experiences. The more we pray, meditate, forgive, and release, the more aligned we will be with our pure natures and the Divine – and the more we’ll attract goodness to our lives. 

Should we be looking to the planets for guidance when it comes to our relationships? Yes to guidance, but no to obsession. We are each far more powerful than our individual charts and unions of charts with others. 

Astrology offers potential outcomes. Prayer, devotion to a living or imagined Deity, and selfless service can overpower our Astrological charts. Your chart might note that you are a stubborn Taurus, but you can overcome stubbornness in an instant.

Your destiny can be altered and improved at any moment. It’s up to you, not your chart.

Is it Necessary to Experience True Love?

We believe in true love because our Soul’s essence is always looking to find our other halves. The reality is that we are not missing anything or anyone. We are simply lacking discipline. We might meet someone with whom we feel “connected,” but this connection is often nothing more than a pleasant stew of chemicals and projections. The imagined connection could potentially be traced to a prior life with this person, but the chances of that are slim. Even so, those prior lives are long gone and they too were based on the needs and fantasies of temporary self-constructs and imagined personalities.

In short, stop fooling yourself. 

What Is Falling In Love?

Falling in love is the process through which we bend our understanding of the Universe and ourselves to the will of a delusion. The act of falling in love with a person doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve met your Soulmate. And it’s not really love. It’s a projection of an idea. Given how mind-obsessed we all are, these projections can appear and feel real. 

Chances are, if you’re in love with someone, it’s because you forgot yourself and believe this person to be a savior of some sort. They are not. 

The good news is that when you believe you’ve found your Soulmate, it changes the way we look at life, as if everything has finally “fallen into place.” The reality is that we are already merged with the Divine, so why not focus on that? Why not focus on having the Divine clear your heart and soul? From there, you can liberate yourself. Why not focus on becoming Divine so that any relationship will be born from a clean soul-alignment, devoid of delusion. 

What Is A Twin Flame? 

Twin Flames feel like best friends because their soul is a near-identical soul imprint to ours. That makes most Twin Flame relationships fiery, sexy, problematic, or a combination of all three. Many people find value in Twin-Flame relationships, but these pairings are not the best for marriage or long-term relationships. They tend to flair up and flair out like herpes. 

You might enjoy a Twin Flame relationship with a friend or roommate. Unless the two of you are also fully immersed in a Dharma-based ideology, you’ll want to make sure there is always a healthy distance between you. One of you is the flame and one of you is in the pile of flammable material. Just be careful. 

When we rush to convert our Twin Flame relationships into romantic connections, we are most likely lonely and impatient. Don’t rush into anything. If there is a need to rush, chances are that it’s based on insecurity, low self-worth, and low self-esteem.

Some people describe Twin Flame relationships as being pulled into hurricanes. When was the last time you felt a hurricane was beneficial?

If you’re coming out of a Twin Flame relationship that ran hot and intense, you may not be prepared for the pain upon walking away. It will often feel like part of yourself is missing, like an arm or leg, or worse, your heart or soul. Upon a Twin Flame relationship conclusion, some people feel frozen in time, convinced they cannot move on. That’s because they gave their power to their Twin Flame, which is easy to do. 

How Can I Recover from a Twin Flame Extinguished?

Soon enough you will feel like a Phoenix rising from the ashes. You may be broken, but you will soon be whole. If you’re feeling like you cannot recover from a Twin Flame relationship, it’s time to improve upon your commitment to spiritual disciplines like meditation, yoga, forgiveness, and selfless service to others. Knowing ourselves, we can never feel empty.

The Twin Flame relationship is born from two people’s need to exercise their egos. This is not a bad thing, it’s just something to keep in mind. Your ego should be annihilated in this life, but enjoying the ego once in a while is okay. 

If you feel inclined to have sex with your Twin Flame, it might be fun, but it will book-live-intuitive-reading-with-paul-wagnerbe like having sex with yourself.

Sex is the lowest form of communication. If you have no other levels of communication to rely upon, you’re not relating with the other person, you’re just masturbating together. Not a bad thing, just not necessarily something that will help you evolve over time.

After all, sex is simply going to the bathroom in a nicer room.

What Are Soul Groups?

Soul Groups are like leaves on a branch. You either entered this life to travel together or you traveled in a prior life together. You might regularly find Soul Groups with whom you feel aligned. That’s because you’ve lived many lives. This is not an achievement, rather, it’s a fact. 

You might also be involved with a Soul Group because of how you have evolved in this lifetime. Your most treasured Soul Group may have formed because of a new devotion or commitment you’ve made. It might be that because of a change in your life, a Soul Group quickly appeared. 

Soul Families are a unique type of Soul Group. They are more intimate and often involve members of the Soul Family having experienced a more familiar connection from life to life. It might be that your Soul Family is comprised of people with whom you’ve been romantic in prior lives and people with whom you’ve also been a sibling or parent in prior lives. The forms of our relationships are not as important as how we evolve when immersed in them.

So, Before You Begin Diving Into Soulmateship…

You are unlimited potential in every direction. You can achieve liberation in this lifetime. Focus not on romance, rather, focus on truly loving and knowing yourself. From there, you can develop co-interdependent relationships based on Dharmic principles, rather than Karmic ones. 

If you’re truly seeking enlightened companionship, begin with the Divine. From
there, pray for a loving, selfless partner. Until you find one, become one. Whatever you become, you will attract. 

Forgive everything, release everything, and only rely upon Astrology to give a
few hints. After all, you are not limited by a faint blueprint. You are only limited by your beliefs. 

 

The Wonders Of Synesthesia: A Unique Neurological Event

The Mind Is Complex! A Shutterstock licensed image.

At first glance, “Synesthesia” appears to be a melodic word, promising something of an adventure. In many ways, this idea holds true. If scientific innovations for the brain, like neurofeedback and ACT, have shown us anything, it’s that there’s so much we still don’t fully understand.

Synesthesia is a unique neurological event that occurs when a combination of our 5 senses intermingle and produce fascinating results. People with synesthesia might taste words or see colors when they hear music. The wonders of this neurological phenomenon certainly point to the complexities of the human mind and sensory systems.

For some, these are the types of things that happen when taking acid or tripping on mushrooms. You might have this experience when ingesting pure MDMA. Meanwhile, some of the more spiritually devout folks out there might have Synesthesic experiences during meditation or an overwhelming spiritual activity, like being hugged by Amma, The Hugging Saint.

We can learn wonderful things about ourselves from Synesthesia. For science, this is relatively uncharted territory, but it’s gaining recognition and popularity. Since many people might never have been able to connect the dots about their condition, they might never realize that are having Synesthetic experiences.

What Does It Mean To Have Synesthesia?

The word “synesthesia” comes from the Greek word: “synthes.” The  Greek translation of the word means unity. Specific senses or stimuli most often trigger Synesthetic experiences. This usually revolves around things related to or involving sound, smell, color, shapes, and touch. 

The most common form of synesthesia is called grapheme. Grapheme-color Synesthesia occurs when individual letters or numbers trigger an automatic association with a particular color. 

Here’s an example for easier understanding: when I type my name on my keyboard, I automatically associate each letter with its corresponding color:

P = red, A = blue, U = green, and L = yellow

Synesthesia always has a core commonality which they all share. The common shared point is that synesthesia fuses two different sensory perceptions together that are not experienced by the majority of all other people. This is what makes each Synesthesia event so unique and fascinating. 

These are seriously wonderful!

Synesthesia is not caused by any disease and it does not harm the nervous system in any way. It’s part of the chemical and neural-magic that’s built into humanity and the experience of being human.

What’s Unique About The People Who Experience Synesthesia?

Synesthesia is a rare condition, and even more perplexing is that those who have it often do not know how or when they began to experience it. People who experience synesthetic perceptions often report they’ve had these sensations their whole lives. Many are more intrigued than bothered by it. Some feel it’s a super-hero skill. 

Interestingly, some professional musicians speak of having the condition because they report they “see” music in color. Or they taste textures like round or pointy. 2%–4% of the population have Synesthesia, yet most of us don’t know anything about it.

There is one thing that is both specific and varied amongst those with synesthesia: whatever color is evoked remains pretty constant over time within the person’s lifetime.  Yet, the color evoked changes and varies from person-to-person depending on their backgrounds or interests.

Synesthesia has been associated with various conceptual and perceptual benefits, suggesting that the genes involved may be selected for their hidden agenda. But no one can agree on the hidden agenda or why it needs to have a clear-cut agenda at all.

Do Animals Experience Synesthesia?

Researchers have found evidence that chimps, like humans, experience some form of Synesthesia. Synesthesia was found in some primates who experience a rare condition known as “synthetic color.”  Primates were able to see different colors for letters or numbers than other objects.book-live-intuitive-reading-with-paul-wagner

We already know the human brain has an incredible ability to negotiate between all our senses when we are sight-impaired. For example, many people associate certain musical notes with specific sounds, such as high Cs sounding like PPP! Yet others taste shapes, and still others hear drawings coming out of their mouths when singing.

Are You a Synesthete?

Have you ever wondered if some of your senses may be overlapping? For example, Synesthetes have unique experiences whereby certain colors, numbers, and letters seem to have an emotional significance. Those who experience this phenomenon will often take part in Synesthesia tests that help provide clarity for their life journeys.

A Synesthesia experience gives some people insights into ranges and depths of what they subjectively perceive through different parts of their brains. Of course, Synesthesia tests have their pros and cons, so don’t take them as 100% accurate diagnostics. Rather, see them as learning tools involving others who experience sounds as colors or shapes. When taking these tests, you might discover what it feels like to experience these sensations.

Several tests can help people with this neurological condition find clarity in their perceptions. Scientists and researchers say that Synesthete tests provide some of the most reliable ways through which we can explore our minds, learn new things, or even wrap our minds around the meanings of our perceptions.  

It is only through understanding of how they relate back together and related to other aspects that can gain value from them. While the testing tools aren’t perfect, they always yield fascinating results.

How Does The Test Work?

An example of a test is as follows:

      • Pick colors from letters of various sizes, numbers on coins, or days off work 
      • If you can correctly identify what these items look like, you may have some type of ‘Synesthesia.’

The next aspect that’s tested is reaction time. You’ll be asked whether or not your color matches any given letter before it’s revealed. If you can complete both tasks quickly without making errors at either the reaction or selection stage – you’ve passed!

The Wondrous World of Living With Synesthesia

The composer Olivier Messiaen, speaking of the union between color and tone in his music, explained to an interviewer: “When I hear music, it is not imagination nor psychic phenomenon. It’s within myself.”

Imagine you were able to meld or blend one sense until it becomes mixed with another? You might wonder if you are able to perceive visually through hearing colors while hearing palate tastes audibly. If every time you touched a texture, and heard a sound that resonated through your body, how much more creative could you be?

If you have this unique condition in which the stimulation of one sense causes you to experience another simultaneous sensation, imagine how different everything in your life would be. There’s a growing body of evidence supporting the idea that Synesthesia is more than just an imaginative or creative use of metaphors.

Amid a Synesthesia event, it seems the boundaries between the senses to bend or break down. Apparently, our senses exist within us but also go beyond what we typically think about as our physical containment and existence.

What Worlds Would You Want to Open if You Could Have Synesthesia for a Day?

The variety of colors and shapes in the world are more beautiful than we might be able to communicate. What if you were given a chance to experience a whole other level of the rich perception of color, shapes, and sounds? Wouldn’t it inspire an inner peace and feeling of supernatural beauty? Every plastic cup can hold sparkling ice with lemon-colored sounds covered with sugar that emits a sigh that only you hear. The possibilities are endless!

The month of December can make most of us shiver and think of decaying branches and hard-packed snow. Imagine, if instead of feeling cold when you read the word December, you see the word in beautiful, lush blue? Try to wonder if instead of shivering in forlorn thoughts, you hear music that lights up your heart and soul with wonderful memories.

Try to Live Your Life Every Day By Opening Up Your Senses to Possibilities

Colors have always danced with sounds, even if you have never noticed them before. You can often listen to music, and if you turn it loud enough, you will register the vibrations. If you try to live your life every day by taking flight into another realm where time stops but eternity lives, what could or would you find?

There’s no right or wrong answer. There are just possibilities. What’s even better is that they are your possibilities because it is your life, your memories, and with only your essence that gives you power every day. Use that power to experience the wonders of opening doors by experiencing some of our unknowns, like synesthesia. 

All of us should experience things we’ve never thought we would try. If we don’t try, we may never know what could have been. 

 

The Healing Transformative Power of Natural Gemstones

Gemstones are living Beings. A Shutterstock licensed image.

The Healing Transformative Power of Natural Gemstones

How often have you seen a beautiful gemstone and thought, “My gosh, I need to own this little creature?!” Natural gemstones not only add color to our lives, but these lovely bundles of electromagnetic frequencies also provide unique opportunities for our spiritual transformation.

To receive their benefits, all we need to do is place them near us. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even talk with them. After all, they are ALIVE, just like you and me.

Natural gemstones are born from the magic of Mother Earth. They can bring us light, clarity, health, invigoration, transformation, and an abundance of good vibes. As they are our most ancient friends, they can guide us to move beyond our self-imposed limits, confusion, and darkness. 

These little power-pals love to nudge us into the light and improve our physical and environmental vibrations. The more our vibrations improve, the more our lives improve. It’s that simple.

Natural gemstones are Living Beings, born from light, vibration, energy, matter, and stardust. They are tools of the Gods. These natural elements are here to uplift our lives and support our desire to liberate.

Gemstones have been utilized for centuries for personal healing and empowerment.  Ever since the Ancient Sumerians documented the use of gemstones in medicine in 5500 BC, their popularity and value have dramatically increased.

Gemstones Are Conduits For Light, Sound, Energy, And Vibration

The twenty natural gemstones listed below are legendary. They help people heal their bodies, minds, and souls.  In many ways, natural gemstones are little friends who were created to help us throughout our journeys here on Earth.

The transformative power of these natural gemstones can harness energies that can bring balance, harmony, abundance, well-being, and much more. 

These natural gemstones are directly linked to the elements that make up our world. That’s why each gemstone’s metaphysical properties are already part of us.

Each stone is imbued with a unique set of attributes derived from Mother Earth’s vitality.  By wearing or carrying your favorite stones, you’ll illuminate your connection to nature throughout time.

1. CLEAR QUARTZ PROVIDES METAPHYSICAL HEALING

Clear Quartz is a beautiful stone. It represents purity and our original states-of-Being upon our births.  These stones are known as “windows to the soul.” We do not have to interact with these little Beings, but just like water, Clear Quartz can cleanse us. It sees the cracks within our souls and invites vibration, light, and sound to heal them.

Clear Quartz is a revered mineral because of its metaphysical healing abilities. It has the power and ability to heal any dark aspects within us. Clear Quartz illuminates our core natures so that we can make the most empowering and healing choices in our lives.

2. AGATE HELPS US BE MORE STABLE

Agate is a stone that inspires stability. When life spirals out of control, Agate brings helps us relax and grounds us.  It can help heal intense emotions and self-doubt and reinvigorate one’s Being. Agate performs this healing and transformation by enhancing our focus, confidence, and inner harmony. It opens different parts of the body along an energy path beginning with the Crown Chakra. In Sanskrit, the Crown Chakra is known as Sahasrara, the gateway to eternal knowledge and astral travel. It rests atop our heads.

The Blue Lace Agate is a unique variety of Agate that invites the healing energies of Angels and other Celestial Beings.

Botswana Agate is a stunning and shiny stone that stimulates our minds, making them more alert and detail-oriented.

Dendritic Agates look like paintings when fashioned into jewelry or other art projects because their shapes resemble natural landscapes. The energies of Dendritic Agate take us within ourselves, stimulating our ability to invite abundance & growth.  

Moss agates are also earthy crystals, known for being calming during times of anxiety and depression. They help establish harmony between our mental states, organs, and blood flow through their stabilizing properties.

3. AMETHYST OFFERS US PEACE AND TRANQUILITY

Amethyst is the ultimate calming stone, offering complete relaxation. One can use Amethyst to help with stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and intuition. One can also use it to alleviate the triggers that cause anxiety. Similar to the herb Motherwort, Amethyst embraces the heart and nurtures the soul.

Many healers and psychics use Amethysts for their third-eye properties. They help the soul peek outward through the Ajna Chakra, found in the lower center of your forehead, almost between your eyes. If you practice meditation, you can open your third eye and ask your guides to answer any of your questions. This chakra is also wonderful for seeking healing, transformation, and self-realization.

Place your Amethyst on the nightstand next to your bed. She will hold your hand and nourish your heart as you sleep.

4. AQUAMARINE DISSOLVES FEAR

Aquamarine is a lovely, vibrant stone that helps to open, nourish, and heal the liver, throat, and stomach. It also has healing properties that can help people with eyesight issues, jaw tension, and dental pain. When our bodies are imbalanced in some way, Aquamarine can help.

Aquamarine’s calming quality will bring mental clarity when one feels stressed, anxious, or confused. Fear and anxiety often arise when we have yet to release prior events and stored emotions. Most anxiety stems from the mind, which can be quelled through Chinese Medicine, meditation, and lots of crying. If you’re processing your past and need a little help releasing some of the old fasciae, grab some Aquamarine and allow it to support your transformation.

5. AVENTURINE IS A ONE-OF-A-KIND LUCKY CHARM 

Aventurine is wonderfully helpful for people who are on the verge of a major decision or moments away from beginning a new life. The healing properties held within this stone will nudge even the most hesitant person in the right direction. Aventurine gives us strength and helps us resolve our blocks when dealing with uncertainty.book-live-intuitive-reading-with-paul-wagner

Aventurine opens the heart, reduces fear, and helps us be more resolute. It might even clear pathways to hidden knowledge and secrets that we stored away long ago. If you’re wondering where you should go next, welcome Aventurine into your life.

6. BLOODSTONE GIVES US LIFE ENERGY, BOOSTING OUR QI

Bloodstones have been used for centuries as royal adornments, upscale jewelry, and mystical talismans. Its bright green and rich red colors make it one of the most unusual stones on our lovely planet Earth.

However, it’s the living energetic properties of this glorious gem that yield its most uplifting and enduring power.  The word ‘blood’ originates from Old English, meaning “Life.” When we welcome this majestic stone into our lives, we are asking the Universe to give us more energy, Qi, momentum, and thrust.

If you’re feeling exhausted or if you’re recovering from an illness – or if you just need a little gemstone caffeine, add Bloodstone to your altar and allow the Universe to give you more life energy.

7. CHRYSOCOLLA MOTIVATES AND CREATES POSSIBILITIES 

With rich green and aqua coloring, Chrysocolla works to remove our blocks so that we can experience magnificent flow in our lives. Rather than just endlessly thinking about the future, with Chrysocolla on our side, we have an enhanced ability to self-motivate, plan for action, and get the show on the road.

Allow Chrysocolla to inspire a grand vision for yourself, one that utilizes every gift, talent, and attributes that you possess. With every forward step we take, our visions and life paths will become more vibrant and clear.

Starting a new venture or relationship? Need some help figuring out your 5-year plan for life, love, and business? Chrysocolla is your new best friend.

8. GARNET PROMOTES PASSION

Garnets are the wild hippies of the gemstone kingdom because they come in a variety of attitudes and colors: playful, serious, sparkly, subdued, rich reds, greens, oranges, pinkish oranges, creamy purplish reds, and a handful of lovely blues. Red Garnet is one of the most popular gemstones in the world.  Not all garnets are as abundant as the red ones. Some of them require very specific and tailored conditions to come to life.

Garnet is a powerful gemstone that promotes our physical and emotional well-being. It’s a nutritionist, physical trainer, coach, and therapist – ALL IN ONE.

Garnets can also help you find the love of your life and depend on your passion for living. These vibrant stones invite sensuality while also encouraging trustworthiness, power, and grace. Garnet invigorates communication between the blood, heart, and lungs.

If you’re looking to level up your life, body, heart, and mind, speak to the nearest Garnet stone and ask her if she wants to be your new roomie.

9. RUBIES BRING STRENGTH

Rubies can come from Burmese, Mozambique, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar. They are rich in varieties of transparencies and multiple shades of pink and red. There’s a reason why Rubies are in such demand – THEY’RE BEAUTIFUL!

Ruby invites prosperity, passion, and strength. It’s the Viagra of the gemstone kingdom. Rubies amplify our energies and increase our vitality. Rubies also can inspire courage and confidence in life, love, and relating.

If you’re ever plagued by self-doubt, pick up a Ruby and ask him to nourish your vibrance, confidence, and strength. Ruby will surely embolden your life and help you thrive!

10. EMERALD INVITES POSITIVITY AND PROTECTION

It’s easy to appreciate the wonders of the Emerald. With its rich and light greens, it appears to be a window to the soul of the Universe. Emerald are stones of boundaries and domestic bliss. They provide protective forces for your home and family.

Emeralds can help your love life, ignite the fire in an old relationship, and even light some sparks in your career. Emerald has powerful healing attributes, too. Using Emeralds, you can dissolve negative energy from your home, your mind, and your relationships. Doing so, you improve your vibration and allow positivity and good fortune to come to you.

11. IOLITE PROVIDES INNER VISION AND TRUTH

According to ancient legend, the mighty and glorious Vikings had a secret weapon: they used Iolite to reduce glare during war and travel. This gave them an extra edge on sunny days and when evaluating the position of the Sun.

Iolite reduces blockages without us, helping us to see our inner Selves more closely and clearly. It’s a stone that can open our minds and give us a clear vision of the present moment.  Meanwhile, Ionlite can assist in achieving higher levels of awareness.

Rich in purples, blues, and grays, this helpful stone will surely come in handy the next time you are preparing for battle or your next lovely pursuit.

12. MALACHITE IS THE STONE OF TRANSFORMATION

Malachite helps us calmly, confidently, and courageously face challenges. It also protects those who are weak, broken, or unusually vulnerable. Healers use Malachite to rejuvenate after healing sessions.  Malachite can be your best friend in times of stress, chaos, and trouble.

Malachite has the power to transform any situation into something more balanced or beautiful.

With its calming blue colors, Malachite removes negativity and enhances self-esteem.  Malachite reduces fear so that we can achieve that which we desire most. This lovely stone might also help us adapt to any circumstances and conditions that may emerge. In many ways, Malachite is a Buddha of the gemstone world.

13. OPAL INVITES HAPPINESS AND LUCK

Infused with all the colors found throughout the gem world, Opal is a box of Crayon Crayons that has been crammed into it. The ancient Romans and Bedouins believed Opals to be the most precious and powerful stones in creation. Some believed them to contain lightning.

When looking closely at an Opal, you’ll feel like you’re looking at the Cosmos. For a moment, you might even feel that time does not exist. As the Opal takes hold of your consciousness, you might experience a vision of a never-ending array of galaxies. You might even feel as though you can see other Realms and Realities.

Opals are beautiful stones that have been used for hundreds of years as lucky charms. They’re known to bring wearers happiness and love. Truly, an Opal can help you feel more positive and optimistic.

When we wear Opal gemstones, we can feel truly eternal.

14. PERIDOT BRINGS PROSPERITY

Peridot is born from the mineral Forsterite. People go wild for the medium or dark green Peridots, and those without any brown or yellow hues. If you’re a Peridot purist, you’ll love the darkest of green Peridots. Some believe this rich and potent stone possesses medicinal and psychic powers. If you’re a Shaman or Wizard, you’ll want to strap this baby to your forehead!

Peridot can be found in many Catholic relics as well as jewelry from the latter part of the 1800s. Peridots come from a unique variety of places, including Arizona, Myanmar, Pakistan, Egypt, Norway – and even Antarctica!

Peridot can help us grow our material and physical lives. If we’re open to it, it can also help us prosper.  This beautiful gem adds strength to our lives and opens doorways to our highest purpose.

15. SAPPHIRE PROVIDES ENLIGHTENED COMMUNICATION & HELPS PREDICT THE FUTURE

The ancient Egyptians believed that the Sapphire could help them predict the future. They used the Sapphire when planning large agriculture and Pyramid projects. They also depended on Sapphire when they were in pursuit of an enemy and when expanding their kingdoms. The most Divine Egyptian leaders would carry Sapphires wherever they journeyed.

If you’re a healer or leader, you can harness this gemstone’s power for your own protection and luck. These gemstones will also help you source inner insights. Doing so, you’ll invite greater abundance.

Those who carry Sapphires help ensure that their lives are peaceful and moving in a positive direction.

16. TOPAZ HEALS AND PROTECTS

The colors of Topaz are rich, enticing, and wonderfully unique! Imagine the luxurious color of honey as it drops from a little spoon into your tea. Conjure an orange so fiery that it awakens your root chakra, inviting you to declare your love for your beloved. You might also love the Cyclamen pink found in Topaz or the cold and icy blues. No matter which images move you most, Topaz is a lustrous, delicious, enrapturing, and brilliant gemstone.

If you wear or carry Topaz, you are asking the Universe for healing or the power to overcome a challenge. Topaz will also help you find closure after an emotional, unexpected, or devastating loss. This glorious stone provides wisdom in times of need and transformative power to keep you focused and motivated along your way.

When you journey with Topaz, you will never feel alone.

17. JASPER OPENS US TO THE DEEPEST LEVELS OF CONSCIOUSNESS

Jasper is a deeply grounding stone. It can bring forth the natural, vibrant, earthly energies that run throughout creation. Jasper can help you tap into your intuition, strengthen your mental focus, and access the deepest levels of consciousness.

In ancient times, Jasper was used in amulets because they provided protection against negative energies and unforeseen forces.

Jasper will ground you in a simple and lovely clarity, while also helping you navigate life’s roughest waters.  Jasper resonates with power and can help you create, heal, and embody peace. 

18. LAPIS LAZULI PROVIDES GUIDANCE AND TRUTH

Have you seen the rich and amazing blues found in Lapis Lazuli? Oh my, they are so beautiful! It’s such a luxurious stone.

Ancient Egyptians would grind Lapis Lazuli into powder and place it on the eyes of dead Pharaohs. This is a gemstone that helps illuminate the portal to the afterlife. If you’re looking to know the Cosmos, Lapis Lazuli can open the gateways for you.

If you’re open, Lapis Lazuli can also guide you to self-awareness, liberation, and enlightenment. It can also help you find your deepest truth. It is the perfect stone when you doubt yourself and are finding it difficult to receive love.

Lapis Lazuli is recognized for its powerful healing abilities. It can enhance your spiritual gifts and help you heal and serve others. Lapis provides pearls of ancient wisdom, granting wishes, and awakening the sense of adventure.

19. RHODOCHROSITE IMPARTS CONFIDENCE AND EMOTIONAL BALANCE 

Rhodochrosite is the perfect crystal to open the heart chakra. It will help you attract self-love and people who will love you for who you are. When we allow Rhodochrosite to nurture the flow in our hearts, we expand. There is nothing more potent than our heart chakra.

Rhodochrosite can help you identify and deal with destructive emotions and people. It can encourage you to enjoy life and be more loving and passionate. With Rhodochrosite at your side, you might find that you’ll express more joy in all areas of your life. This divine stone can empower you to feel more confident and grow your self-worth.

Rhodochrosite is the best friend you’ve always needed.

20. TURQUOISE CONNECTS US TO OUR SPIRITUALITY

Native Americans associate the beautifully integrated colors of Turquoise with the blues of Grandfather sky and greens of Grandmother earth. This gemstone is used in ceremonies and jewelry throughout the world. It is a truly special stone.

This vibrant gem can attract money, success, and love. It can fortify our abilities and supports us spiritually. There is so much goodness and light built into this stone, it can be helpful to anyone who wishes to improve their life.

If you’re a therapist, shaman, spiritual practitioner, or healer, you’ll find great nourishment from this stone. Bring it with you wherever you go!

The Lesser-Known Natural Gemstones and Their Transformative and Healing Power

Some of the rarest gems are often the most beautiful. An example is the gemstone Benitoite. This attractive blue or purple-colored barium titanium silicate can only be found in San Benito County in California. There are also lesser-known natural gemstones of Madagascar, which are all beautiful and rare. 

NATURAL GEMSTONES CAN HEAL AND UPLIFT YOU!

Natural gemstones can give your body and soul a deep and wonderful cleansing. They remove the toxins from our bodies and support the healing aspects of our spiritual Being.

Natural gemstones have healing and transformative power that can give us protection, wisdom, love, future insights, and wealth. Gemstones are living Companions that can serve you and your loved ones throughout your lives. You can use them to enhance the vibrations of any room or spiritual practice.

If you’d like, you can name your gemstones. After all, they are alive just like you and me.

I hope this article is helpful and nourishing for you. Wishing you lots of love, light, and blessings in your life!

 

What Is a Mercury Retrograde? How To Handle This Wonderful Phenomenon

What is a Mercury Retrograde - Paul Wagner

Mercury in retrograde in the universe - Paul Wagner

If you travel in new-age styled circles, you’ve heard of Mercury Retrograde. If you listen to most of the folks preaching about this astrological cycle, you might think these are dangerous and horrible events. And while it is true that Mercury retrograde has a certain impact on our lives, it is not true that it is a horrible event. It is a wonderful time in many ways, even though it comes with some challenges. Let’s explore how you can embrace its hidden benefits while navigating its challenges with ease.

What is a Mercury Retrograde?

As science tells us, all of the planets in our solar system orbit the Sun at various speeds and unique distances. Mercury Retrograde occurs when the planet Mercury appears to shift directions as it orbits the Sun. This is only an optical illusion because of the position of Mercury in relation to our position on Earth.

It’s not really changing direction. It never changes direction or goes in reverse. It just appears that way.

As planets rotate around the Sun, they are all at unique distances from the Sun and each other. When one planet is nearer to the Sun than a second planet, it might appear to pass the second planet in its rotation. This is what creates the illusion, possibly appearing that the second planet is going backward. This Retrograde concept is how the ancients saw this phenomenon.

Mercury goes retrograde 3 to 4 times every year, going into this phase more than any other planet. Every Mercury Retrograde lasts roughly a month, yet we will also want to consider the “shadow periods,” which run about one week prior and one week following the retrograde. These shadow periods are when the energies are either forming or dissolving.

What is a Mercury Retrograde’s Spiritual Meaning?

A Mercury Retrograde, or any planetary dynamic, is how the Eternal Consciousness rejuvenates, regenerates, and re-stimulates the energies throughout the cosmos. We are, after all, made of stardust. It would make sense that we would feel the shift as planets move around the Sun.

What Goes Wrong During Mercury Retrograde?

Many feel confused and even dizzy during a Mercury Retrograde. Some feel like a completely different person living a completely different life. You might feel like you’re personality has changed some or you might feel like you’ve somehow become a Super-Intuitive Psychic  and Super-Healing Superhero! You might also feel somehow defeated during the shadow periods or during the majority of the retrograde. It all depends on how deeply tuned you are to your true nature.

Retrogrades can cause a lot of problems in relationships, even between soulmates, because somehow communication becomes a little more emotional or less specific. This creates the confusion that many might feel during these times. The confusion is generated by the disparity between who you truly are and who you are pretending to be.

Most of us make decisions and live our lives from a temporary self-identity—one that we contrived in order to sustain our ego-related goals and satisfy our temporary desires. When we’re confronted with a shift in universal dynamics with the planetary system we live within, we are basically confronted with our true nature.

Within that experience, we might run from what we created during our pre-retrograde lives or run head-first into experiences that are born from a whole other set of contrivances—ones based on our warped sense of creativity, our inner-feminine aspects, or our secret, unprocessed desires.

We are complex, to say the least. Here’s what not to do during Mercury retrograde

  • Signing contracts
  • Having sex with new people
  • Making long-term plans
  • Signing a lease
  • Starting a business (although it’s a great time to explore ways to expand a business already in progress)
  • Playing with technology
  • Being angry
  • Being sad
  • Beating yourself up

I tell all of my coaching clients that Mercury Retrogrades are the perfect time to clean house, cry, write, and move beyond the desire to become “something” in this world. They are the perfect times to get over ourselves and go within.

What Are the Good Things About Mercury Retrograde?

I LOVE Mercury Retrogrades. They’re wonderful for getting back in touch with aspects of yourself that either fell by the wayside or that you neglected for one reason or another. The downsides of retrogrades are often overplayed and overexaggerated. This is because the new-age scene loves to crank out hilariously insane content that tends to create more fear than anything else. 

Here’s what to do during Mercury Retrograde:

  • Write
  • Be creative
  • Express your feelings
  • Pray
  • Start new and deeper spiritual disciplines
  • Reflect on prior experiences
  • Unearth old emotions and finally release them
  • Forgive others
  • Set boundaries
  • Heal & evolve broken aspects of yourself
  • Heal relationships
  • Release relationships
  • Release aspects of your life and nature
  • Meet new people

Image of woman meditating and looking at starry night - Paul Wagner

Why Think About Mercury Retrograde If We’re All Connected to The Divine?

But wait, aren’t we all connected to the Divine? Aren’t we able to surpass all the limits a retrograde might present? Yes, but even Superman had issues with kryptonite.

In all things: Be Happy. Be Peaceful. Encourage the same in others. You are truly an infinite Being. Live according to this idea and life will flow accordingly.

Mercury Retrograde Dates

If you want to stay self-aware and embrace the benefits it can bring, here are the upcoming Mercury Retrograde dates you should know (don’t forget to take into account the shadow periods as well):

Mercury Retrograde 2025

  • March 15-April 7, 2025
  • July 18-August 11, 2025
  • November 9-29, 2025

Mercury Retrograde 2026

  • February 26-March 20, 2026
  • June 29-July 23, 2026
  • October 24-November 13, 2026

Mercury Retrograde 2027

  • February 9-March 3, 2027
  • June 10-July 4, 2027
  • October 7-28, 2027

Mercury Retrograde 2028

  • January 24-February 24, 2028
  • May 21-June 24, 2028
  • September 19-October 11, 2028

Mercury Retrograde 2029

  • January 7-27, 2029
  • May 1-25, 2029
  • September 2-24, 2029
  • December 22, 2029-January 11, 2030

It’s Been A Long Haul! Helpful Tips During COVID-19

Prepare For COVID

Purple and blue Covid-19 – A Shutterstock Licensed.

It’s Been A Long Haul! Helpful Tips During COVID-19

Over 600,000 dead as of this writing.

Whether it was engineered at a clandestine lab or it naturally emerged from interactions between animals and humans, the coronavirus will be with us for some time. While it might spread more akin to a drip-feed than surge, caution (not panic) is recommended, especially for those who are elderly or health-compromised.

The official name of the 2019 novel coronavirus is Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The associated disease is known as COVID-19. Hundreds of scientists have confirmed that COVID-19 does not have a natural origin. As of this writing, there is no vaccine or cure for the coronavirus.

A Few Facts About COVID-19

There are many conspiracy theories about the coronavirus, most of which are based on irrational thinking, political propaganda, fear, stupidity, and racism. These theories cover a broad range of ideas, from “Bill Gates is using his man-made disease to reduce world population and to gain profit” to “it was created by Democrats to bring down Donald Trump.”

Spreading this type of misinformation during a health crisis can be extremely dangerous, not to mention a waste of time. It might even prevent the weak and infected from seeking the help they need to live.

If you’re lost in the insanity weeds and would like to return to a noble and defensible reality, consider these facts:

  • COVID-19 is a pneumonia of unknown cause, first (officially) reported in Wuhan, China,  on Dec 31, 2019.
  • It’s now reported to be in over 100 countries.
  • Dozens of research scientists, labs, and companies have identified the genetic sequence of the coronavirus and are working on a vaccine.
  • Symptoms include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, muscle pain, and feeling unusually tired. Some cases include vomiting and diarrhea. The more extreme cases result in severe pneumonia and renal (kidney) failure, which can lead to death.
  • The incubation period is between two and 14 days. 
  • The virus can live and thrive for up to a full day on your kitchen counter, door handles, and other objects. 
  • The virus (so far) cannot sustain itself in the air for long. This means that unless someone spits, coughs, or sneezes in your direction, you might not be at risk. To some, the verdict is still out on this idea.
  • The coronavirus is an intense and deadly flu, far more dangerous than viruses from recent history, and nothing like the common cold. While preliminary reports state that COVID-19 results in 5-20 deaths per 1000 (depending on the source), the common cold does not have a mortality rate. Even if the virus ranges from 1-5 deaths per 1000, it’s a pandemic, which means the disease could spread to millions of people within a relatively short period.
  • In late February 2020, China CDC reported that 2.3% of confirmed cases died, but this number could be misleading, as not all cases are reported. To date, of people age 80 and over, 14.8% have died. The fatality rate for people in their 50s is 1.3%, 0.4% for folks in their 40s, and 0.2% in people aged 10 to 39. As more data is reported and analyzed throughout the world, we will likely see a shift in these numbers.
  • Children tend not to die from the disease.
  • The elderly, those with medical conditions like heart, lung, or kidney disease, and those who are societally disenfranchised are far more vulnerable than other segments.
  • University of Nebraska’s Dr. James Lawler, who’s received a bit of flack for his leaked presentation to hospitals, estimated in 2019 there would be over 4.8 million total hospitalizations from the coronavirus, 96 million US cases, 480,000 deaths, and a flu season that’s 10X more severe than usual. While it’s important to understand the varying levels of potential risk, only time will tell. 
    • James was mostly correct!

While holy roller Jim Bakker is promoting the unproven idea that the consumption of silver or praying to Jesus will eradicate the coronavirus, keep your eyes glued on the data and scientific facts.

There is a wealth of facts and scientific information available on the CDC and WHO web websites: http://CDC.gov/COVID19.

Protecting Your Health

At some point, COVID-19 might become a slight or moderate threat to you and your family. Keep in mind that only you know what is best in terms of precaution and preparedness. As such, some of these ideas could be helpful to you and those you love:

  • If you’re sick, stay home for the week. If you’re feeling a little “under the weather,” consider staying home for at least one day to see if your symptoms are escalating. 
  • Regularly wash your hands with soap for 20+ seconds. 
  • Wipe your phone with a disinfectant wipe at least twice per day.
  • Regularly use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. You might consider researching how to make your own with aloe vera. 
  • Keep a personal towel (that only you use) to dry your hands, or dry them with a paper towel or air dryer.
  • Do not directly touch or rub your eyes with your hands. Do not rub your lips, wipe your mouth with your hands, pick your teeth, or pick your nose. Keep your fingers away from your face.
  • Limit your time in crowded places. Consider canceling group events and parties.
  • Consider traveling by car or air, instead of by train. It’s best to prioritize your transportation modalities in this order: walk/bike, car, plane, then train. 
  • It might be best to avoid carpools during this time.
  • Working from home during time is preferable. Consider replacing some of your regular business meetings with videoconferences.

Prepping Your Home

When large populations become physically ill, there can be changes in local, state, and national operations.

While it’s never helpful to panic, it can be advantageous to prepare (with limits). If some of these ideas are interesting to you, be thoughtful, methodical, and careful in your planning around COVID-19.

While parts of this list might not be required at this time, if you live alone, a few of these ideas could save your life.

  • Store an additional 1-month supply of food, including lots of vegetables, dried or frozen meats, meat alternatives, canned goods, and pickled eggs. Consider canning and jarring your favorite vegetables so that you never run out of nutrient-rich food.
  • Consider storing 2 weeks’ worth of water, just in case something happens to your plumbing while you’re sick or in case there’s a temporary change in how local utility companies function. 
  • In light of a possible power outage, have a collection of candles, flashlights, and batteries on hand.
  • Stock 1-2 months of nonprescription drugs and other healing supplies, including vitamins (especially vitamin C), soothing herbs and lotions, cotton swabs, rubbing/disinfectant alcohol, herbal pain relievers, essential oils, stomach remedies, and cold medicines.
  • Buy an advanced first aid kit.
  • Consider putting a small freezer in your garage or basement to store some of your favorite items.
  • Keep 24 extra rolls of toilet paper and paper towels on hand. While storing any more than this would likely be excessive, production and supply lines will naturally adjust to increased demand.
  • Source your health records from hospitals, doctors, chiropractors, dentists, and other health professionals. If possible, keep them handy and in printable formats. 
  • Have a backup plan for your video, streaming, and internet services. For example, you can have a Zoom account with a backup Skype account. Add a mobile hotspot to your phone line to remedy any temporary internet outages.

Advanced Prepper Suggestions

book-live-intuitive-reading-with-paul-wagner

Some of us enjoy preparedness as a hobby. If you’re an aspiring survivalist or amateur disaster prepper, you might consider these ideas upon any escalation of COVID-19. While some of these suggestions might appear to be overkill, there’s nothing wrong with learning how to be more alert, prepared, and self-sufficient.

  • Make sure your toolbox has all the essential tools for building and repairing walls, doors, plumbing, and electricity.
  • Keep extra cash on hand in case you need to buy essential items from friends and neighbors. 
  • Learn how to make basic herbal remedies and tinctures so that you can nurture and heal you, your family, and your friends during extreme weather, power outages, and other emergencies.
  • Learn how to grow enough food at your home to feed you and your family for at least one day per week. 
  • Have printed maps of the area on hand. 
  • Make sure everybody in your family has printed contact information for the whole tribe. 
  • Purchase a basic generator.
  • Keep 20 gallons of gas on hand for emergency use in your generator and car.
  • Buy a few sets of inexpensive, two-way radios.
  • Ready a travel-bag in case you need to exit your home quickly.

Additionally:

  • For a time, consider refraining from using holy water and other sacred ritual items at churches, temples, ashrams, mosques, ceremonies, and religious events.
  • If you begin to display symptoms, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or paper towel so that you can protect others from also becoming sick. Consider wearing a mask.
  • If someone is coughing or sneezing, and you’re not clear on what’s happening for them, to be safe, leave the room.
  • Sleep at least 8 hours per night, exercise, eat healthy meals, meditate and pray.
  • Drink lots of fluids.
  • Thoroughly wash vegetables before cooking or consuming.
  • To give your health and immune system a boost, reduce your sugar intake.
  • Frequently wipe down surfaces with disinfectant wipes.
  • Avoid sharing personal items with others.
  • Consider taking immune system boosters like Elderberry, Spirulina, Wheatgrass, Barley grass, and other superfoods to improve your immune system and energy, and give yourself a fighting chance.
  • If you’re on any regular medication, try to source a few extra week’s supplies of prescriptions and antibiotics.
  • For a time, consider refraining from using church holy water and other sacred ritual items at churches, temples, ashrams, mosques, ceremonies, and religious events.
  • If someone is coughing or sneezing, and you’re not clear on what’s happening for them, to be safe, leave the room. 
  • If you begin to display symptoms, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or paper towel so that you can protect others from also becoming sick. Consider wearing a mask.
  • Sleep at least 8 hours per night, exercise, each healthy whole food, meditate, and pray. 
  • Drink lots of fluids.
  • Thoroughly wash vegetables before cooking or consuming.
  • To give your health and immune system a boost, reduce your sugar intake.
  • Frequently wipe down surfaces, objects, and incoming packages with disinfectant wipes. This means you might consider being wary of unclean keys, eating utensils, cutlery and cutting boards, cups, and computers.
  • Avoid sharing personal items with others.
  • Buy inexpensive, electric hair clippers, and scissors. Cutting hair at home is free, and it reduces your chances of contracting a virus at a high-traffic, touch-based business.
  • Consider taking immune system boosters like Elderberry, Spirulina, Wheatgrass, Barley grass, and other superfoods to improve your immune system and energy, and give yourself a fighting chance.
  • If you’re on any regular medication, try to source a few extra week’s supplies of prescriptions and antibiotics.
  • For a time, replace handshakes, hugs, and kisses with waving, saluting, bowing, applauding, nodding the head, and winking. In general, avoid close contact with others. The safest bet is to keep a distance of at least 3 feet during this time. 
  • In crowded areas, consider temporarily wearing a simple N95 or N99 mask. For the sake of ensuring that hospitals have ample supply, refrain from hoarding masks.
  • Create a separate, protected space for potentially sick household members. You might provide them with a small fridge, microwave, and water dispenser so they can be somewhat self-sufficient for a time, thereby reducing the chance of infecting others.
  • Have emergency numbers on hand. Know how to contact your primary care physician and schedule tests. 
  • Keep apprised of your city’s plan to counteract the challenges surrounding the spread of disease and related emergencies.
  • Don’t obsess over risks and fears; instead, focus on preparedness, preventive care, loving yourself and others, and staying healthy.
  • Gather a few books and get back to reading throughout the week.
  • To counterbalance potential drama and stress, find time to laugh, play, and pray with loved ones. 
  • In all things, seek the best for yourself and your loved ones. Care for your friends and neighbors when you are able. While there are challenges ahead, this is a great time to pray, spend time alone, work on creative projects, start a home business, love-up your family, and curl up with a favorite book.
  • As always, it’s best to refrain from fear and panic, while ever reaching toward peacefulness, forgiveness, and love.

From all the media hype and misinformation, and all the streams of helpful insights pouring into your social media feeds, you might simply choose to use the coronavirus as a provocation to improve one aspect of your life: your diet, your exercise regimen, your relationships, or your meditation and prayer practices.

When we focus on happiness and personal improvement, we increase our vibrations and thereby improve our states of mind and health.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]As humankind continues to massacre the earth and haunt its many creatures, we will see more challenges and viruses in the years ahead. Stay healthy, positive, and informed.

Try to be prepared, while also loving, thriving, and living in the moment. On a lighter note, you might enjoy this COVID-19 safety video from the Vietnam government, promoted by The World Health Organization: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3eWmKQmMoFk

For the latest and most accurate information, please visit the WHO and CDC websites. Always root for science – it’s our ally! Wishing you health and happiness, always!