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Neurofeedback, ACT, And CBT: Powerful Healing for the Heart & Mind

Shutterstock licensed image:  Heal your heart, your mind and life will follow.

Neurofeedback, ACT, and CBT: Powerful Modalities for Healing the Heart & Mind

The events and conditions within our lives can feel dramatic or difficult. At various junctures in our lives, we might feel completely overwhelmed and unable to cope.  We might even lose hope, faith, and focus.

Luckily, our world is constantly changing – and so are we. And while many of the aspects in our lives can feel insurmountable, we are always in control of our perspectives, attitudes, and abilities to look deeply within ourselves. 

Even the darkest night has a dawn.

Shadows disappear when obstacles are dissolved.

Science is working on behalf of all the people who are in pain. Many are creating inspiring, life-changing technological advancements that promise to improve life as we know it. All of these emerging innovations are making life more peaceful and bearable for those who are struggling.

Let’s be honest.

Most of us suffer from at least one of these things: stress, frustration, anxiety, depression, panic attacks – or all of the above. Sadly, each of these things is fueling an accelerating mental health crisis.

It might seem difficult to significantly change our immediate environments or have lasting impacts on the world around us. We might not realize just how powerful and impactful we can be!

Regardless, we can change how we respond to everything. If we’re disciplined, we can deeply heal ourselves and become more resilient. By approaching life with a sense of warriorship – a sense of adventure – we can accomplish just about anything. 

Upon every challenge, we must focus on the positive and forge ahead with courage. It’s vital that we dig deeply within ourselves so that we may heal our hearts, minds, and spirits.

While God and Guru are here to nourish and guide us, the only person who can truly heal and save us is ourselves. 

We’re actually lucky to be on the planet right now.

There are so many unique healing and scientific innovations appearing almost every day —  ever heard of somatic experiencing? Specifically, new therapies are gaining momentum in the mental health space that could unlock a future of brighter days.

No matter the modality, begin by being vulnerable with yourself. Ask yourself what you’re feeling and what you need. If you can, call out to God and ask for Her loving guidance. When we’re open and vulnerable to the Divine, angels and transformative forces will come to our aid.

Knowing which options are available to you during your healing process is important. Here are a few that I love: CBT, ACT, and Neurofeedback therapy. 

What is CBT?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, commonly shortened to CBT, is a wildly successful therapeutic method that has recently gained a lot of recognition. The idea behind CBT is that we can train the brain to respond to certain situations differently than it had before. This method involves talk-therapy mixed with Gestalt-style experiencing. This modality can also be found integrated into mobile phone apps that prompt and guide seekers to change the way they speak, feel, and think about their current situations and feelings.

Why does this work? The mind functions by firing neurons and creating neural pathways. The more your brain responds to a particular event, the more permanent this pathway becomes. People who often react negatively to events might do so because this is the most familiar way the brain knows how to respond. 

In other words, the more you can coax yourself to respond differently or positively to things, the more familiar and comfortable it becomes to stay positive rather than react negatively. 

Through CBT, we can learn to not only cope with stressful situations, we can learn to master and transcend them. Through CBT processes, we can learn to respond positively to even the most disruptive chaos. Breaking our negative cycles and teaching our brains to respond positively help and heal our minds, hearts, and spirits. 

What is ACT?

ACT, or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, is a direct descendent of CBT, and for many people, it’s the most important modality they’ve adopted in their lives. This method uses CBT in conjunction with acceptance therapy, which teaches the patient to genuinely accept the world and all situations so that they can find peace. Another word for this technique is mindfulness, which encourages us to live in the present and be aware of ourselves and our decisions within the moment. 

An adjunct to ACT and CBT – or something that can replace them entirely – is The Sedona Method, a uniquely powerful and effective technique that helps participants acknowledge, accept, and release every experience and related emotions that emerge. More on that, later!

ACT comes in two steps. First, you accept the things out of your control, whether it is the people around you, your environment, or negative events. Then, you commit to specific actions that will help you handle the stress and pain within your situation. 

This method is useful for everybody, from all walks of life. It can help you,  your mind, heart, and spirit become more flexible, open, and (eventually) more detached. The more we can respond positively or proactively under stress, the stronger we become.

What is Neurofeedback?

While CBT and ACT rely solely on human beings changing their behaviors, Neurofeedback elevates these methods utilizing technology. In Neurofeedback therapy, a practitioner uses EEG Biofeedback to help the patient visualize, track, and understand exactly how their brains respond to a variety of stimuli.

With this technology, the practitioner and patient watch a screen to see the way the brain responds, which becomes a primary tool within the therapeutic model. The practitioner applies electrodes to the scalp and shows the patient how their brain waves appear. Then, the patient is asked to alter this activity consciously through a video-game-like interface. 

Through this method, the brain is trained to reroute its pathways, alter its activity, and ultimately respond positively, all within a fascinating reward system. This method is being used to treat conditions like anxiety, panic attacks, depression, anger, attention-deficits, sleep disorders, migraines, and even seizures and autism.

CBT vs. ACT vs. Neurofeedback: Which Is More Effective?

Whether CBT, ACT, and Neurofeedback therapies are effective has been in question for years. Many therapists are committed to using only these modalities, while more traditional therapists worry that aspects of these things are superfluous and ineffective. 

Experts are regularly and rigorously testing new therapy methods to determine which are truly beneficial to psychotherapeutic practitioners. This trend is especially true for recent attempts to administer CBT through mobile apps, which had once threatened the commonly-held belief that professional therapy requires consistent human interaction and face-time with a therapist.

In 2017, a German study revealed that CBT and Neurofeedback showed the same positive results in adults who had attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The kicker? The same positive results were found in the control (placebo) group. If nothing else, doesn’t this show that it’s not about what technologies and advancements we apply, but what our perception of them is? Maybe knowing you’ve acknowledged the problem and taken action to better your health is the most significant step towards healing.

It’s all about you. How do you feel? What helps you heal? What will help you change your mindset, and in turn, your response to the world around you? Whatever that is, that’s the answer.

Using Mindfulness To Heal

Being present and aware is natural to us, yet it often seems so far away from us. With the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, amid all of our complex webs of  responsibilities, we don’t realize how far outside of our bodies we usually are. We are too often living in tomorrow, next month, or even 5 years ahead of this present moment. When we aren’t in the future, we’re thinking of the past. All the while, we’re neglecting ourselves in the present.

Mindfulness is the first step towards healing, and it can be achieved through any of the above therapies. If you choose to attend a CBT or ACT group or individual session, you’re choosing to acknowledge your problems and pain in the present and take action now.

 If you choose to explore Neurofeedback therapy, you’re choosing to be aware of how your brain reacts and performs upon various stimuli and in the moment. 

When conscious of ourselves in the present, we’re paying attention to who we are, what we feel, and what we want. Knowing some of these things, we can successfully heal the aspects that are most troubling to us.

Of course, you don’t need CBT, ACT, or Neurofeedback to become mindful. Mindfulness is the most basic of all modalities for healing. All you need is yourself and the conscious decision to become fully present. 

Just like with CBT, you can train your brain to be mindful by default. Like with ACT, you can accept your reality in the present without being too reactive or overwhelmed. If you sit quietly amid a challenging feeling, you can find its source, accept the feeling, and then release it. This might take some time to master, but along the way, you’ll clear years of stealth emotions and experiences. Doing so, you can become free.

Find a way to make meditation a habit in your life. Encourage yourself to regularly turn inward so that you can acknowledge how you feel  in the present. This alone will train your brain to advance. 

Through mindfulness, we can become non-judgemental of ourselves and others. Instead of judging and feeling ashamed of our thoughts and feelings, we can fully explore them and get to know who we are. 

What can be more healing than completely and unconditionally embracing our authentic selves? Nada. Dive deeply and you’ll find that you are part of a luminous and expanded consciousness.

Get To Know Your True Self

If you truly want to heal your heart and mind, begin with a 10-minute meditation every morning and evening. As you meditate, focus on your inward and outward breaths. You might even imagine that your inward breaths are full of light and your outward breaths carry away stored negativity and stress. 

Explore different methods of therapy and tools for self-reflection. 

Seek a guru like Amma (Amma.org), Jesus, Buddha, or other living saints like Mother Meera and Karunamayi Ma. 

Talking to a professional or a trusted friend can help you acknowledge your pain and hear out loud what you’re really thinking for the first time. 

Use a diary or my Personality Cards to delve deeply into your soul to source and release behaviors and emotions that are stifling you. 

Any resources that help you pause, breathe, and explore yourself in the present will put you on the path to healing.

REMEMBER!

You are a beautiful Living Being filled with light and love, born from stardust. You are unlimited potential in every direction. With a focus on discipline, virtue, and your own goodness, you can become as expanded and liberated as you desire. 

Pray for others and the Universe prays for us. 

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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. 

 

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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!

 

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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!

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The Year of the Ox: The History, Meaning & Power

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The Year of the Ox: The History, Meaning & Power

Every 12 years, we experience a Year of the Ox in the Chinese Zodiac. Most recently, we rode the rollercoaster of the year 2021, and the next time we see the Ox will be in 2033. You might have heard about years marked by animals in the past, but what does it all mean?

Coming to understand the history, symbolism, and ultimate power of the animals that stretch across the 12-year cycle of the Chinese Zodiac can help you come to understand yourself and the Universe so much better. Armed with this new tool and information, you can better delve into self-reflection, spiritual development, and rebirth!

The Origin Of The Chinese Zodiac

As early as the 14th century, the Chinese used a celestial calendar and celebrated the New Year. The Chinese lunar calendar is the oldest structured example of the zodiac animals used in conjunction with years passing. However, the Chinese Zodiac itself is so ancient that we can’t pinpoint its origin exactly!

However, there is a legend of the Great Race, which tells the story of the Chinese Zodiac’s beginnings. The Jade Emperor commanded all the animals to race across a river in the story.

The first 12 animals to make it to the other side would have years named after them, and they would appear in the order that they placed in the race. According to the legend, the Ox would have been first if it weren’t for the cunning of the Rat, which hid in the Ox’s ear and jumped out across the finish line as soon as the Ox made it to the other side.

When it comes to archeological evidence, signs of the 12 animals in the zodiac first appeared around the 5th century B.C. during the Zhan Guo period. It wasn’t until the Han Dynasty between 206 B.C. and 9 A.D. that the zodiac was officially identified. It was not until the late 500s A.D. that the animals were used to identify people born in their corresponding years. The North Zhou Dynasty was officially in power when the zodiac animals became popular!

We now know that Chinese Zodiac uses animals and elements to mark time passing. Partnered with the lunar calendar, the Zodiac uses animals to mark years, days, and hours in 12 segments each.

Overall, the Zodiac spans 60-year cycles with different combinations of animals and elements to uniquely identify them.

Why An Ox?

The Chinese Zodiac consists of animals significant to China’s culture and history. Each animal was chosen intentionally as being helpful, majestic, and powerful in the people’s eyes.

The animals are always cycled through in the same order, starting with the Rat. Following are the Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and finally, the Pig.

As a result, if your birth year lands within the second year of the Chinese lunar calendar cycle, you are marked by the Ox.

So why did the Chinese choose to honor the Ox so highly? Oxen have been an essential part of the Chinese’s ability to farm, transport go

ods, and build a powerful military throughout history. For farming, they are strong, sturdy animals that can move heavy materials, graze and provide milk.

They are low-maintenance, providing great help without needing rewards or anything in return.

On the back of the Ox, Chinese agricultural success and history stand tall. As a result, the Ox is highly revered and often used to compliment others, such as “You are very like an Ox!”

What Happens in the Year of the Ox?

Many predictions are told by seers using the elements and animals, including the year ahead, the people born in those years, and guidance such as for relationships and financial success. Though highly revering each animal in their zodiac calendar, the Chinese have never denied the existence of negative forces and flaws.

Each animal in the zodiac has positive and negative traits that help those born in their years better understand themselves and what awaits them.

One might guess being an Ox in the current year of the Ox (also known as your natal year) is a great thing, but it’s quite the opposite! Chinese astrology says that Tai Sui, otherwise known as the “God of the Year,” works to make the natal year of that person unlucky for them.

Tai Sui can be found as a constellation connected in opposition with the planet Jupiter and draws on the unstable energy of the planet.

Using the knowledge of Tai Sui and the characteristics of the Ox, fortune tellers have formulated horoscopes. For those born an Ox, seers have predicted turmoil and strain in love and finances during natal years. Each year has exceptions, however.

In 2021, for example, those marked by the Ox might find some good fortune in their career even if the overall situation was still mainly negative. Which element is combined with the animal during that year can help bring insights to the nuances of those lucky and unlucky events.

If you are born in the Year of the Ox and are entering your natal year, fortune tellers warn that attempts at success beyond self-development are risky. Rejection in love and missteps in your career can lead to turmoil for you. Instead, focus on your wellbeing and take steps to balance your inner self.

What Are The Chinese Zodiac Elements?

Each year, the animals also cycle through five elements. The Chinese Zodiac includes water, metal, earth, fire, and wood. In 2021, the Year of the Ox was also metal, giving the personality of the Ox nuances of popularity among friends and hardworking, active work ethics.

If you are Wood Ox, you’re probably restless and headstrong. If you’re a Fire Ox, you might be practical but narrow-minded.

If you’re an Earth Ox, you could be honest and responsible. If you’re a Water Ox, you might be ambitious and have excellent observational skills.

Using both your animal and water signs, you can begin to explore yourself further and better respond to relationships and situations in the future!

What Does It Mean to Be Born in the Year of the Ox?

Born in the Year of the Ox? A few set things according to the Chinese Zodiac are good and bad luck for you. Your lucky numbers, for example, are 1 and 4, and your lucky colors are white, yellow, and green. You can also have particular affinities to tulips and peach blossoms and to north and south directions.

You also have compatible and incompatible signs! You should stick close to people with Rat, Snake, and Rooster signs, as they are most likely to work well with you.

Lesser compatible signs are the Tiger, Horse, Goat, and Monkey, so you might want to proceed with caution when entering relationships with these signs.

Like the Ox, those with the Ox sign usually enjoy a long and healthy life. They are also best suited for hard work requiring close attention to detail, like agriculture, engineering, carpentry, or politics.

The Chinese recommend wearing red throughout your natal year to avoid some of the bad luck that might come!

REMEMBER!

In all things astrological, please realize that these aspects are only suggestions to help you better delve into self-reflection and ease some stress. You are far more powerful than you realize.

The blueprints that astrology suggests are not hard and fast rules. It might also be that you have other influences in your life that might greatly enhance your ability to receive what you desire.

To improve your vibration, luck, and happiness, spend time chanting Sanskrit mantras and love-filled sutras.

Pray for others and the Universe prays for you.

If you’re looking for more tools to delve into self-reflection, you can try out my personality cards or look into my FREE YOURSELF course. It’s wonderful.

YOU ARE LOVE!

You are a beautiful Living Being filled with light and love, born from stardust. You are unlimited potential in every direction. With a focus on discipline, virtue, and your own goodness, you can become as expanded and liberated as you desire. 

BLESSINGS TO YOU!

There is no “Other.” There is only you experiencing yourself.

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Ashwagandha: Natural Stress Relief And Much More!

Stress relief ashwagandha herb and supplements on a tablerbs

Stress relief ashwagandha herb and supplements on a tablerbs

What is Ashwagandha? 

 

Withania somnifera, otherwise known as ashwagandha, is an evergreen shrub originating in India, parts of Africa, and the Middle East. Its roots and fruits are highly revered and often used in Ayurvedic medicine, one of the oldest holistic medicinal approaches in the world. 

 

This ancient medicinal herb has found its way into modern-day uses as well thanks to its whole body healing properties. Easily found in supplement form at your local grocery store, ashwagandha is probably best known for its ability to relieve stress. 

 

But Ashwagandha has plenty of other uses, too! Over recent years, this herb has been seeing an increase in popularity across Western medicine, all due to its effectiveness.

 

So why should you include it in your daily, self-care regime?

 

Reduces Arthritis Pain

 

A study conducted in India found that participants with rheumatoid arthritis reported fewer tender & swollen joints, lower pain scores, decreased self-assessed disability scores, and reduced ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) scores. 

 

ESR refers to a measure of inflammation in a patient and is tested by how fast red blood cells sediment (or settle) at the bottom of a test tube over the course of an hour. Normal cells sediment in a relatively slow fashion, but people that experience a lot of inflammation (like those with rheumatoid arthritis) will find that red blood cells settle much faster.  

 

Its anti-inflammatory properties are well documented across many animal studies, as its healing effects continue to impress scientists worldwide. Ashwagandha’s anti-inflammatory properties are fantastic for people with severe joint pain. 

 

It is also believed to assist in preventing pain signals from traversing the central nervous system, meaning that overall pain is also reduced. 

 

Boosts Your Immune System 

 

Ashwagandha’s has the remarkable ability to reduce inflammation, yet it plays a much larger role than just aiding with arthritic pain.

 

Ashwagandha can decrease c-reactive proteins (CRP) in your blood, a common inflammation marker. CRP is a protein created in the liver and released into the bloodstream as a response to inflammation. Increased levels lead to swelling, pain, and all those other uncomfortable symptoms that come with it. 

 

This medicinal herb has also made notable results toward the improvement of immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells. These NK cells are a type of lymphocyte (white blood cell) and part of the innate immune system important for rejecting virus-infected cells and tumors. By increasing the number of these NK cells, ashwagandha assists your immune system in fighting illness.

 

Improves Strength & Muscle Mass 

 

That’s right, adding ashwagandha to your life might help you get fit and drop some extra pounds!

 

After 8 weeks of administering a root extract, participants saw their speed and muscle strength increase by almost 10%, in comparison to the placebo group. 

 

Another 30-day study saw a significant increase in muscle activity and more than doubled their body fat reduction percentage. 

 

Increases Fertility in Men 

 

Give your little swimmers a fighting chance!

 

The use of ashwagandha resulted in higher sperm counts and increased sperm mobility during the course of one infertility study of men. It also leads to higher testosterone levels, a key component of a healthy reproductive system in men. 

 

Not only that, but the herb can increase the quality of sperm over time. One 3-month study saw a 14% rise in partner pregnancy after introducing ashwagandha supplements!

 

 

Helps with Cancer Treatment 

 

The herb has been used to induce apoptosis (cell death) in cancerous cells, (just like garlic!). By reducing the cells’ ability to resist this death stage, it can slow or stop the spread of cancer. 

 

Ashwagandha also interrupts new cancer cell growth, an important step in treating the disease. The herb interrupts the functions of cancer cells by increasing internal formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

 

While human studies are still ongoing, research conducted on mice with ovarian tumors found that ashwagandha not only prevented the cancer’s spread to other vital organs but also resulted in a 70-80% reduction in tumor growth. And this occurred whether the herb was provided as the only treatment or in conjunction with other cancer medications! 

 

Improves Brain Function 

 

Ashwagandha helps protect us from failing memory and general brain function degradation. It’s given to patients in traditional Ayurveda who need to boost their memory. Why does it have this effect? 

 

Free radicals are molecules that are harmful to the body in large numbers. Damage they cause leads to a variety of degenerative diseases and issues such as cancer, asthma, senile dementia, atherosclerosis, degenerative eye disease, and more. Our bodies naturally produce antioxidants which target these free radicals and destroy them. 

 

Ashwagandha have been proven to promote antioxidant activity, meaning free radicals have a much more difficult time attacking our bodies and we stay healthier. 

 

One study conducted over 2 months with 50 adult participants gave 300 mg of ashwagandha to one group and a placebo to the second. After receiving this dose twice a day for the duration of the study, the group consuming ashwagandha showed significant improvement to attention, general memory, and even task performance. 

 

Performance, choice discrimination, and reaction time was also improved by adding ashwagandha supplements into the daily routine in another study. Twenty healthy adult men were given 250 mg of this herbal extract twice a day (so 500 mg total per day) over the course of 2 weeks. The improvements were observed through testing, both before the program started and after the study was finished. 

 

Lowers Blood Sugar Levels 

 

Reducing blood sugar is important for optimal muscle health, fighting diabetes, and overall well-being. 

 

While research is still ongoing, several studies have already shown ashwagandha’s ability to improve blood sugar levels.

 

When compared to patients who received placebo pills, those who took ashwagandha supplements saw a lower average fasting blood sugar level. The study involved schizophrenic patients over the course of 4 weeks. 

 

 

Improves Stress and Anxiety 

 

Of all ashwagandha’s healing abilities, it’s probably best known for its efficacy for reducing a person’s stress and anxiety. Animal studies found that it regulated chemical signaling in the nervous system, in turn blocking stress pathways to the brain.

 

It can also alleviate symptoms of both acute and chronic stress and anxiety. 

 

Insomnia (a common stress and anxiety side effect) and anxiety were reduced by 69% for chronic stress patients who took an ashwagandha supplement. And after only 60 days! The placebo group, for comparison, only saw an 11% reduction in the same amount of time. 

 

Another incredible study involving 39 participants found that over 6 weeks, 88% of the group receiving ashwagandha supplements reported lessening anxiety. 

 

This healing herb is also a good option for improving stress and anxiety because it can lower your cortisol levels. Cortisol is released from your adrenal glands in response to stress. If those levels become inflated (or even stay that way because of chronic stress), you can also start to see other side effects such as more fat collecting in your abdomen and increased blood sugar levels. 

 

After just 60 days another research group of adults diagnosed with chronic stress lowered their cortisol levels by an average of 30%.

 

So by adding this herb to your daily routine, it can not only combat the toxic cortisol levels but also promotes regulated chemical signaling for the nervous system. 

 

Summary 

 

Like many other traditional Ayurvedic herbs, ashwagandha has seen an increase in popularity among western medicine in recent years. It improves a variety of body-wide functions, like boosting your immune system and memory, while reducing stress and anxiety levels. 

 

Just make sure that while you’re keeping your body healthy, you keep your mind and spirit healthy too!

 

Daily meditation and prayer can also uplevel your vibrations and help you feel at the top of your game. Use these free rituals, mantras, prayers, and more to awaken yourself and become more in tune with the world and universe around you. 

 

Start empowering yourself now and feel a lifetime of change as you shift your reality for the better! 

 

Remember that you are the embodiment of light and love! Seek forgiveness of everything, own your power, set boundaries, stand strong in the face of challenges, and remain drenched in gratitude!

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Helpful Ways To Achieve Rebirth During Challenging Times

Inspire Rebirth During Challenging Times

 

Most of us entered this life in a medical facility, surrounded mostly by strangers. When we came into the world, we were hopefully welcomed, fed, and soon loved. As we’ve meandered through this life, we’ve adopted religions, societal paradigms, and habits that have been either helpful to us or not-so-helpful. Yet, even though we are entrenched in ideas and behaviors that we learned from others, it doesn’t mean that we’re done growing. In fact, at any moment we can free ourselves from the clenches of outdated thinking, limiting ideologies, and undesirable relationships. We can ALWAYS set ourselves free, and achieve rebirth: free from harm, free from bondage, free from temporary self-identities that keep us caged.

To confront who we are and where we’re going, we must first be honest with ourselves. If we can be truthful with regard to our limitations and make note of the aspects of our lives that have never worked for us, we can certainly imagine and pursue their opposites. 

To begin your journey to a freedom-oriented wholeness and achieve rebirth, we must first let go of the past and realize that it is nothing but a canceled check. It’s an illusion that we somehow learned to cherish. Even when it’s painful, we still cherish the past. We might even obsess about it, which can lead to a life of regret and unfulfilled potential. 

You’re better than that – and you know it! 

Inspire Rebirth During Challenging Times
A Shutterstock Licensed Image.
  • Forgive one person today. If you can’t forgive them, pray for them. If you can’t pray for them, imagine them in a positive light. 
  • Explore the best practices for healing yourself. Pick one and try to master it. Meditation is a good place to start. 
  • Expand your diet by introducing new foods to your home and family.
  • Become more self-sufficient in the home by learning how to ferment, jar, and freeze all the delicious foods that you’ve always loved.
  • Create your own medicinal, herbal tinctures, teas, and salves. Some of the most beneficial remedies are made in our own kitchens. 
  • Pick one short book to read aloud with a loved one. 
  • Explore ways to turn your sweet little hobby into a home business.
  • Reach out to a financial advisor to learn about how people grow their wealth. Even small steps can turn into big wins over time. 
  • Join the many Facebook groups connected to your local and state governments and explore ways to become more involved in helping your community.  
  • Bake cookies for a nearby nursing home. You might even find an older friend to visit once and a while. When we serve others, we serve God, The Universe, and Nature. 
  • Maybe it’s time to give a few things away. If you have excess furniture and other useful items, call local donation centers or leave some of the most expensive items on the street. 
  • Life moves so quickly and sometimes we forget some of our most delicious dreams and goals. Is it time to launch that project, start that blog, or write that book? 

One of the most important skills we can develop in this life is to find pathways to positivity, even when we’re entrenched in sadness, anger, or darkness. When we allow our minds to perseverate and obsess over bad experiences, we build mental muscles that will only lead to our unhappiness. When we find ways to trigger ourselves out of these bad habits, we recondition our minds. With clear minds and hearts, we can move more efficiently and happily through our lives and achieve rebirth. If we’re committed to these types of processes, we can also become completely, 100%, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually FREE.

If you need further guidance towards rebirth, I’d love to speak with you about your journey through my coaching services.

 

 

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The Free Yourself Mini Audio Course



ARE YOU READY FOR A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE?

You’ll LOVE The Free Yourself Mini Audio Course

Are you feeling like you need a little jump-start? Are you ready for a simple sojourn into your core nature so that you can feel strong again? Need some love & encouragement?

You’ll love this easy audio course: The Free Yourself Mini Audio Course

Lesson 1: Who Are You?

Lesson 2: Forgive Everything

Lesson 3: Authentic Living

Lesson 4: Responsibilities & Desires

Lesson 5: Selfish Self-Care

Lesson 6: Your Operational Life-Plan

Lesson 7: Love & Honor Key Relationships

Lesson 8: Spiritual Masters, Manifestation & More

Ebook: How To Live An Exuberant Life

Worksheet: Affirmations, Mantras, And More!

 

GET THE FREE YOURSELF MINI AUDIO COURSE NOW

 

My hope is that this free course will bring you light and clarity in your life. I made these with love I pray they truly serve you.  If you’re ready for a more serious course – a super-spiritual jump-start, check out THE FULL, AMAZING FREE YOURSELF VIDEO COURSE: HERE.

 

TIPS FOR LIVING A FULFILLING LIFE

 

Rituals & Declarations can inspire rebirth and give you momentum.

Paul’s Courses are empowering and enlightening.

You’ll love THE PERSONALITY CARDS – a new tarot for liberation.

You are the embodiment of LOVE & LIGHT!

Forgive everything, learn how to say goodbye and set boundaries, stand strong in the face of challenges, and remain drenched in gratitude!

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