 *BRILLIANT VALENTINE'S IDEA!! (For less than $10!) The Horizon is Here: Finding Life's Lessons in Everyday Living --Get it on Amazon (paperback or Kindle) This book is for anyone questioning life, seeking lessons, trying to understand current struggles. looking for answers...it's for ALL OF US!!! You can order directly from Amazon or the link on www.inspiredbyearth.com OR you can purchase directly from me for a signed copy:) ======================================================================= reflection on thought... Suffice it to say, nothing this year has gone the way we planned, dreamed, or hoped for. Well, the word nothing may be a little extreme- I’m sure something went exactly that way but has been overshadowed by the pandemic and its snowballing effects. I heard myself say to myself, this is not what I had planned; this is not what I thought my life was going to be like. This wasn’t the vision in my head of what comes next. But then a new thought popped in almost immediately to debate that…what if this is exactly what is supposed to be? If that is true, why lament? I need to move forward and carry on. Stop reading for a moment to consider all of the situations you thought would be different and feel acceptance. Honor your belief system and sit with “this IS how it is supposed to be”. Just because I want something one way does not mean I get to have it that way. I felt like a toddler caught in the midst of a me-me-me tantrum. I am working on not saying this may be how everything is supposed to go down and changing that to this IS. We cannot lament what we wanted to occur, especially if it is beyond our control, as most things are. It is a continual practice of accepting what is occurring. “We must know what ‘actually’ makes us happy rather than what ‘should’ make us happy. The only way to know the truth is to experiment with what is supposed to bring us happiness and then see the results on ourselves.” ― Awdhesh Singh, Myths are Real, Reality is a Myth Funny thing-- we say “supposed to” as if it were true or fact. The word “supposed” means generally assumed or believed to be the case, but not necessarily so. Its antonyms are actual, known, real, true, factual, absolute, undisputed. Have faith in the present- in your present. Faith is a present tense word. Have faith in present and notice the shift in your energy when you choose to accept the present. It is SO much easier to move forward and do what needs to be done because you aren’t dragging the past and the supposed-to-be’s with you:) ===================================================================== I am holding my next virtual Death Cafe meeting on Monday January 11 at 6pm CST. Please email me for the link and password. You can also find my meetings on www.deathcafe.com as Death Cafe Western Suburbs Chicago. If you have never been to one, please consider joining me in a safe space to organically talk about death. We have some really great conversations! There is no meeting agenda and the intention is to make this a more comfortable and normal conversation. Space is limited to 20. ======================================================================= Yoga Class Schedule ALL classes will remain ONLINE on Zoom until further notice. All are welcome to attend any class for free. Please reach out to me for the link and password. *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative *WEDNESDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) & 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative If you miss a class, I am posting them to my YouTube page, which can be found by searching my name or by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9b8ULuY6A2uAuoxC2iaO2Q ======================================================================= FEATURED HEALING STONE: Crystals for Hope by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire As we ring in the new year, I believe we are all embracing hope for 2021. Although I have written about some of these crystals in the past, it behooves us to reexamine them as they relate to hope. In addition, using many of them together will only intensify their effect. Topaz is a third eye stone that is ideal for those who have dealt with trauma and loss. Who cannot relate to this after the year we have endured! It helps to show the road you are headed to and instills enlightenment to the wearer. It is an enhancement stone that is highly effective for affirmations and visualization. Amazonite is known as the Stone of Courage and the Stone of Truth. It is said to soothe the spirit and calm the soul. The energy within is as powerful as the river for which it is named. It is truly a crystal to boost hopefulness. Sunstone is excellent for clearing all the chakras which can become blocked during times of crisis. It is useful for easing depression and building faith. Turquoise helps cleanse and transform negative energy. It serves as a protection from negative energy and harm. It is known to enhance trust, kindness and wisdom. It is also said to heal both the physical and emotional body. Citrine brings positive energy to the user. It is said to harness the energy of the sun and to bring sunshine into all aspects of ones life. It attracts wealth, prosperity and success. Chrysocolla is a peaceful stone that soothes and calms in times of stress. Unlike other stones, it is not a high-energy stone. Its role is to soothe, calm and inspire. It is associated with tranquility, peace, patience and intuition. I have heard it said that the only thing stronger than fear is hope. It is my hope that you will use these stones to help boost your hopefulness as we come into this new year. Happy New Year to each of you. I hope you will enjoy health, happiness and peace throughout 2021.
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 ======*BRILLIANT CHRISTMAS IDEA!!
(If I do say so myself !!) The Horizon is Here: Finding Life's Lessons in Everyday Living --Get it on Amazon (paperback or Kindle) This book is for anyone questioning life, seeking lessons, trying to understand current struggles. looking for answers...it's for ALL OF US!!! You can order directly from Amazon or the link on www.inspiredbyearth.com OR you can purchase directly from me for a signed copy:) Other Benefits: Stocking Sized! You'll be shopping locally! Eternal gratitude from me:) ====================================================================== A snowflake never falls in the wrong place... December holidays are coming quickly upon us and, while they can bring a lot of happiness, they can also nurture other feelings like sadness, loneliness, and melancholy. I like the Zen proverb that a snowflake never falls in the wrong place because it is a reminder that there is a reason for everything. Even temporary sadness has within it a reason for harboring your attention. It is our responsibility to ourselves to discover what that reason may be. Is it to rediscover our strengths, remind us of good memories, or inspire us to see what lays beyond this temporary emotion? The proverb seems to offer me comfort. Perhaps comfort in knowing that somehow everything will work itself out. That life may not be so elusive and that it is my role to discover all of these happenings. Like the snowflake. The one that lands on my eyelash and causes me to flutter. Or the one that slides down the back of my shirt eliciting a shiver. What would be the lesson in that, you question? Maybe the answer is as simple as being brought back to the present where change is able to create a new path and hope steers our direction. ======================================================================= I am holding my next virtual Death Cafe meeting on Monday December 14 at 6pm CST. Please email me for the link and password. You can also find my meetings on www.deathcafe.com as Death Cafe Western Suburbs Chicago. If you have never been to one, please consider joining me in a safe space to organically talk about death. We have some really great conversations! There is no meeting agenda and the intention is to make this a more comfortable and normal conversation. Space is limited to 20. ======================================================================= Yoga Class Schedule ALL classes will remain ONLINE on Zoom until further notice. All are welcome to attend any class for free. Please reach out to me for the link and password. *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative *WEDNESDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) & 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative If you miss a class, I am posting them to my YouTube page, which can be found by searching my name or by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9b8ULuY6A2uAuoxC2iaO2Q ====================================================================== FEATURED HEALING STONE: Crystals for Peace by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire The holiday season is usually accompanied by a certain amount of stress. This year is no exception with some additional stress piled on. People all over are worried about jobs, money, their children and many other things that are out of one’s control. Finding inner peace can be challenging in our fast-paced world. There are healing crystals and stones that can help us find the peace of mind for which we are so desperately searching. You may have seen some of these in previous columns and they bear repeating in this context. Many, but not all, of these are water element stones. These stones are helpful in maintaining a healthy emotional balance and can assist in alleviating depression and fear. Larimar is a calming, cooling stone that is soothing to the emotional body. It is a stone of serenity that promotes relaxation. Its frequencies help relieve stress and its physical effects. Wearing this stone can make the wearer feel surrounded by an oasis of calm. Blue Calcite is a gentle stone that will help quiet the chatter in one’s mind and lift thoughts to a higher vibration. It is very helpful for those who suffer from anxiety. It can be used like a worry stone to help bring peace and relaxation. Blue Lace Agate instills peace of mind by harnessing the energies of the throat chakra to create a deep sense of contentedness and helps to restore balance in the mind. Aquamarine is a stone of release. It helps one to let go of attachments to old patterns and relationships. Holding a piece of aquamarine in each hand is said to create a wave of energy that can wash away fear and worry. Moonstone is a stone of inner growth and strength. It soothes instability and stress promoting calmness. Its energy is balancing and healing assisting in the mastery of emotions. Sodalite is often referred to as the stone of peace. It can help one to calm the mind, ease panic attacks and to prevent one from becoming over emotional. It encourages rational thought and productivity. Since December heralds in the season of peace on earth and goodwill towards men, we may want to turn to our crystals for assistance in reaching these goals in our own hearts. Even though this will be a very different holiday season, I hope you are able to find peace and some joy throughout the month and into the coming year. Copyright 2011- November 2020 Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list November Leaves...
The early November leaves still express an artist's palette of reds, burnt umbers, and destined yellows. Destined for what, you may ask. Destined to return peacefully to the Earth's caress. By the end of November, only a few stragglers will be clinging to bare branches. Are they the brave ones? Are they fearful? Do they portray strength in hanging on or a weakness in not being able to let go? Change is imminent and everywhere. This year, I hear much lament about the holidays approaching and how different they will play out this year. I encourage you to celebrate rather than despair; create new traditions to keep your family safe and healthy. Create new stories that will be different from the ones of years past. Be the leaf that lets go of the idea that everyone has to be together on Thanksgiving seated around the same table. As a Death Cafe host, I would rather hear that you all end up at a table together further down the road because that will be the truest of celebrations. So, this month's message is about changing perspective. Changing our perspective on what may feel like a loss but is an opening in disguise. Would you have changed up your holiday plans if you were not faced with the need to? Of course not! So, get creative and find new and different ways to reach out to those you care about. I am certain we can all get together to eat turkey on a day in March as easily as we could on November 25. Don't attach to what you contrive to be the meaning of that day...the meaning is in what you determine it should be, and I bet, with perspective engaged, that sounds something more like gratitude, peace, and health. Love you all:) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I am holding my next virtual Death Cafe meeting on Monday November 9 at 6pm CST. Please email me for the link and password. You can also find my meetings on www.deathcafe.com as Death Cafe Western Suburbs Chicago. If you have never been to one, please consider joining me in a safe space to organically talk about death. We have some really great conversations! There is no meeting agenda and the intention is to make this a more comfortable and normal conversation. Space is limited to 20. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yoga Class Schedule ALL classes will remain ONLINE on Zoom until further notice. All are welcome to attend any class for free. Please reach out to me for the link and password. *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative *WEDNESDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) & 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative If you miss a class, I am posting them to my YouTube page, which can be found by searching my name or by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9b8ULuY6A2uAuoxC2iaO2Q ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FEATURED HEALING STONE: Crystals for Gratitude by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, believe it or not! While most of us cannot wait for 2020 to be over, I am certain there are some things that we can find to be grateful for as we get ready for the feast. We have discussed many crystals that are associated with love, production or productivity. There are also a select few that imbue the user with a greater sense of gratitude like Rose Quartz, Citrine, Tiger Eye, Blue Apatite and Pink Sapphire to name a few. These stones can help you focus your thoughts toward the things in your life for which you want to express gratitude. While we have explored many of these in the past, we are examining their connection to gratitude today. Practicing gratitude increases your inner joy and helps you to feel better physically. You feel more positive, happier, and more alive. You feel more compassion and kindness which also helps you to sleep better. You become a magnet for drawing greater good into your life. The more gratitude you feel and express, the more you can increase your abundance---whatever that abundance means be it health, happiness, love etc. Clear Quartz is a stone that amplifies every kind of energy. When you fill it with thoughts of kindness and gratitude, it will magnetize these energies into your life which will radiate right back to you. Rose Quartz is a stone that will help increase the flow of kindness and thankfulness through you. It is said to promote empathy, compassion and gratitude. It is believed to inspire you to relish the beauty in your life as it attracts even more love to you. Citrine inspires gratitude by helping you attract wealth, success, and abundance into your life. It is said to transmute negative energies into positive. It is believed to guard and protect you from hurt and heartache. Tiger Eye is known as a balancing stone. It is a good one to use to balance your own energy or that of someone else. When you are balanced you appreciate the good things in your life and can appreciate them and be grateful. Blue Apatite leads to greater compassion and helps induce openness and social ease, encouraging a more extroverted nature. It helps one to be at ease, lessening irritability, apathy or anger and bringing about a sense of gratefulness. Pink Sapphire brings peace and compassion for others and eliminates all negative emotions from the past and help to live life with joy and happiness. Pink Sapphire is a symbol of love and acceptance that helps the wearer to forget and forgive others and promotes feelings of gratitude. While these are just short snippets of the qualities of these stones, it can give you a starting point for your gratitude practice. Use them in meditation or simply carry them around with you. These crystals will make a great new addition to your Thanksgiving table as part of your centerpiece or placed at every seat. This is a good way to add to the gratitude of the day. Copyright 2011- November 2020 The Horizon is Here--Get it on Amazon!
Three podcasts are up!! The Albrecht Authors New website! www.sandracoyner.com Online Classes on Zoom and YouTube Guided Mediation on YouTube Go to www.inspiredbyearth.com for: Reiki sessions and Classes Link to Youtube videos Link to Meditation CD ...and more! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I am holding my next virtual Death Cafe meeting on Monday October 12 at 6pm. Please email me for the link and password. You can also find my meetings on www.deathcafe.com as Death Cafe Western Suburbs Chicago. If you have never been to one, please consider joining me in a safe space to organically talk about death. We have some really great conversations! There is no meeting agenda and the intention is to make this a more comfortable and normal conversation. Space is limited to 20. ________________________________________________________________________________________ Yoga Class Schedule ALL classes will remain ONLINE on Zoom until further notice. All are welcome to attend any class for free. Please reach out to me for the link and password. *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative *WEDNESDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) & 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative If you miss a class, I am posting them to my YouTube page, which can be found by searching my name or by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9b8ULuY6A2uAuoxC2iaO2Q _________________________________________________________________________________________ FEATURED HEALING STONE: Chakra Stones by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire If you have been following Sandra’s Gentle Restorative Classes for the past few weeks, you have been learning about yoga poses and some crystals for each of the different chakras. I thought that October would be the perfect time to discuss a little about stones for each Chakra and some steps you can take to balance them. The first step is to choose a crystal or crystals for each of your seven chakras. The crystals you choose will coincide with the color associated with each of the chakras. Here are just some suggestions for each chakra:
When you begin to work with your crystals, the first step is to cleanse them. You can use Reiki to do the cleansing and, if you are not a practitioner, you can simply cleanse them by running cold water over them for several minutes. Sometimes you can purchase sprays at a metaphysical store with which to spray them. You can also pass them through incense or sage smoke and set your intention to cleanse them as you begin. You can use your crystals in many ways. Meditation is a great way to use them to clear your chakras. Place the stones on the different chakra points on your body and begin your meditation with the intent to bring the vibrations of the stones to each chakra to clear it. Stones can be placed on individual chakras if you feel that any particular one is blocked. You can carry your stones in your pocket or in a pouch in your pocket or as a necklace around your neck. You can place your pouch under your pillow to assist with balancing while you sleep. Wearing crystal jewelry is another way to utilize the stones to help clear blockages. With the full moon coming on October 1st, this provides a great opportunity to cleanse and recharge your crystals. Simply place them outside in the moonlight or on a windowsill where the moonlight can stream in. Again, it is important to set you intention when setting the stones out. Just ask for the ways you want the stones to support you with their vibrations. Namaste! ___________________________________________________________________________________ Chakra affirmation: I am balanced, healthy, and peaceful and am one with the Universe. The Horizon is Here--Get it on Amazon!
Both podcasts are up- The Albrecht Authors New website! www.sandracoyner.com Online Classes on Zoom and YouTube Guided Mediation on YouTube Go to www.inspiredbyearth.com for: Reiki sessions and Classes Link to Youtube videos Link to Meditation CD ...and more! SHARE NEWSLETTER Share Tweet Forward Om shanti shanti shanti Love, light, and peace to all of you!IBE ELSEWHERE F O L L O W on F A C E B O O K F O L L O W on T W I T T E R finding an open field... I have a lot of thoughts about September...like, how did we get here?! September is a birthday month for me, and I will finally be back to a positive number. LOL sometimes it's the little things:) Most likely you have heard this Rumi quote before taken from his poem "A Great Wagon": "Out beyond ideas of right-doing or wrong-doing there is a field. I'll meet you there. When the soul lies down in that grass the world is too full to talk about.” I don't know about you, but I am ready to lay down in that field. I would only be aware of the soft grass and the fluttering butterflies; the attention from the sun and the wind's embrace. I did meet a friend out at a park a couple of times over the past two months. Each time I saw something I had not seen before (I am not counting the toddler who got spanked for coming just within 20 feet of us...). I saw a nuthatch walk upside down underneath a tree branch and I saw a bluebird. I wonder how it's possible to not have seen a bluebird before. I guess, maybe I have, but wasn't paying attention...or the memory fades. Laying in the field is important right now. Escaping the negative world energy and all the discouraging noise. In Rumi's field, there is no judgment. There is a space of being. I thought you may like to read the poem in its entirety. There is a lot more to walk away with... or lay in the grass to think about. “A Great Wagon” by RumiWhen I see your face, the stones start spinning!You appear; all studying wanders. I lose my place. Water turns pearly. Fire dies down and doesn’t destroy. In your presence I don’t want what I thought I wanted, those three little hanging lamps. Inside your face the ancient manuscripts Seem like rusty mirrors. You breathe; new shapes appear, and the music of a desire as widespread as Spring begins to move like a great wagon. Drive slowly. Some of us walking alongside are lame! ~ Today, like every other day, we wake up empty and frightened. Don’t open the door to the study and begin reading. Take down a musical instrument. Let the beauty we love be what we do. There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground. ~ Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there. When the soul lies down in that grass, the world is too full to talk about. Ideas, language, even the phrase each other doesn’t make any sense. ~ The breeze at dawn has secrets to tell you. Don’t go back to sleep. You must ask for what you really want. Don’t go back to sleep. People are going back and forth across the doorsill where the two worlds touch. The door is round and open. Don’t go back to sleep. I would love to kiss you. The price of kissing is your life. Now my loving is running toward my life shouting, What a bargain, let’s buy it. ~ Daylight, full of small dancing particles and the one great turning, our souls are dancing with you, without feet, they dance. Can you see them when I whisper in your ear? ~ They try to say what you are, spiritual or sexual? They wonder about Solomon and all his wives. In the body of the world, they say, there is a soul and you are that. But we have ways within each other that will never be said by anyone. ~ Come to the orchard in Spring. There is light and wine, and sweethearts in the pomegranate flowers. If you do not come, these do not matter. If you do come, these do not matter. I am holding my next virtual Death Cafe meeting on Monday September 14 at 6pm. Please email me for the link and password. You can also find my meetings on www.deathcafe.com as Death Cafe Western Suburbs Chicago. If you have never been to one, please consider joining me in a safe space to organically talk about death. There is no meeting agenda and the intention is to make this a more comfortable and normal conversation. Space is limited to 20.Yoga Class Schedule ALL classes will remain ONLINE on Zoom until further notice. All are welcome to attend any class for free. Please reach out to me for the link and password. *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative *WEDNESDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) & 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative If you miss a class, I am posting them to my YouTube page, which can be found by searching my name or by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9b8ULuY6A2uAuoxC2iaO2Q FEATURED HEALING STONE: Larimar by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire Although summer is inevitably winding down, we may still be faced with some very hot weather. (It always seems to get hot and humid after school starts!) So, how does one bring cooling and calmness into our topsy-turvy existence? Crystals, of course!!!!! Blue and green stones, often associated with cooling and calming, are the best ways to bring these qualities in! Larimar is the crystal of choice for September. It is a throat chakra stone that brings joyous energy and a vibration that assists in clear communication. Known as the Dolphin Stone, Larimar was first discovered in 1916 in the Dominican Republic on the island of Hispaniola. It was named by the Dominican resident and Peace Corps volunteer who rediscovered it in 1974 using letters from his daughter’s name, Larissa, and mar, the Spanish word for the sea. Although it may contain some red or brown shades, the rarest and most valuable stones have intense blue with some contrast within. Relaxation is one of the benefits of Larimar. It soothes the emotional body and helps to release stress and undesirable attachments. Wearing this lovely stone brings a feeling of calmness and that “all is right with the world!” As a stone that connects one to the energies of the sea and sky, it helps women to awaken the Divine Feminine within to fulfill their highest purpose in life. Born from volcanic activity, Larimar is a water stone which acts as a balancer of Water and Fire energies. With its soothing and calming energy, it helps assuage excessive fear and diffuse explosive anger. Its frequencies relieve stress and its physical and emotional effects. It is said to be useful in treating hives, rashes, eczema and other skin disorders that are aggravated by stress. It is also helpful for cartilage and throat conditions. It can be a powerful emotional cleanser and healer for phobias, panic attacks, stress related imbalances and excessive anger or fear. It would seem to be a wonderful stone for these times of great stress. In meditation, it can help to release us from the unhealthy bonds to people or ideas that do not serve our higher good. Hopefully, this stone will assist us all in navigating the rough waters we are facing now. "Each moment contains a hundred messages from God." Rumi taking care of business...
I like to produce content and let the rest fall where it may as I am not great as using social media. Having said that, let's talk Twitter for a moment because that is the hardest one for me to wrap my head around. I recently tweeted that when my YouTube channel gets to 100 subscribers, I will randomly draw from all 100 to send out 3 signed books of The Horizon is Here. If you already have my book, save it for a holiday gift! Please spread the word and encourage people to subscribe...if you have not yet done so, it only takes a moment:) The link is below. As far as reviews on Amazon, if you purchased your book from me, there is a good chance Amazon will not post your review as it does not consider you a verified purchase. If you did purchase on Amazon, PLEASE go on and post a review. That link is also below. I would truly appreciate it. I am excited to announce I will be making a return visit on the Albrecht Author's podcast. We will be talking about Reiki and past lives so make sure you check it out once it is up. I will post on my websites and on Facebook. If you have missed any of my yoga classes, they are all up on YouTube and I think we have covered some interesting topics this past month. Be sure to check out the Gentle Restorative class about oracle cards and see which one was meant for you! If there are any themes you would like to suggest I cover, send me an email! THANK YOU IMMENSELY xoxoxox Amazon link to leave review: https://www.amazon.com/Horizon-Here-Finding-Lessons-Everyday/dp/B088BHTTYR/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+horizon+is+here&qid=1590969011&sr=8-1 YouTube link to subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9b8ULuY6A2uAuoxC2iaO2Q ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ My Two Cents Ever since mid-March, I have been trying hard to not refer to our environmental issue at hand by name; I do not want to contribute to putting its energy out into the Universe or into the space directly around me. I tried to come up with a different name to refer to it to but, alas, I have fallen short. So, in reference to "It", I wanted to share something with you that I hope may be helpful, and/or interesting. Virginia Satir is recognized as the first family therapist and it is she who came up with an idea called the Satir Change Model. This model references the four stages we all go through when change enters our world, which I believe I can succinctly say has for everyone. Initially, we hang out in 'Status Quo'. This is where we were before "It" came along. Status Quo is what we consider our normal, comfortable, everyday place. It still presents challenges but, for the most part, we move along rather consistently. Then, a change comes. Satir refers to this change as a "foreign element". We enter "Chaos" mode because the new element disrupts our our normalcy. We may panic, we may grieve, we may worry. A reaction ensues, different for all of us, and we struggle to quickly find answers that may bring us back to Status Quo. But, there is no going back; the ripples are already there. The third stage we enter is called "Practice and Integration". We realize we are now in a new "new". We try out ways to be comfortable here and we understand we need to practice being here, with our new skills and beliefs, so that we can integrate our new methods into our world. We stumble forward and back, forward and back but eventually we figure it out. Once this occurs, we enter the fourth stage, which is "New Status Quo". We understand what we once considered to be normal is gone and we are comfortable with this new space. As with every change in life, the newness eventually fades away... None of us are in the first stage of "It". Are you still in the second or have you begun to move into the third? The point is there will eventually be a new norm, a new comfortable status quo. We will get to the other side and be comfortable in our space, once again. Those are my two cents on "It". -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I am holding my next virtual Death Cafe meeting on Monday August 10 at 6pm. Please email me for the link and password. You can also find my meetings on www.deathcafe.com as Death Cafe Western Suburbs Chicago. If you have never been to one, please consider joining me in a safe space to organically talk about death. There is no meeting agenda and the intention is to make this a more comfortable and normal conversation. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yoga Class Schedule ALL classes will remain ONLINE on Zoom until further notice. The Tuesday class will move to Wednesday mornings effective immediately until we are back in-person. All are welcome to attend any class for free. Please reach out to me for the link and password. *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative *WEDNESDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) & 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative The classes are currently free and all are welcome to join. If you miss a class, I am posting them to my YouTube page, which can be found by searching my name or by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9b8ULuY6A2uAuoxC2iaO2Q ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED HEALING STONE: Kammererite by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire This month’s stone came out of our Thursday night yoga games and cocktails! One of the rounds of Scattegories called for participants to name a series of twelve items all beginning with the letter “K.” Wouldn’t you know one of the categories was “gems/crystals!” Kyanite was the easy one chosen by several of us. Al, however, chose Kammererite! None of us, including Sandra, had ever heard of it! Go figure!!!! So, I thought it would be a good choice for crystal of the month. This is a very rare stone first found in Scandinavia in 1841 and named after a Russian chemist who worked in the Mining Department of Russia, August Alexander Kammerer. Today they can be found in Norway, Sweden, Finland and Turkey. Although it is a rare stone, it can be found using some specialist crystal providers. Considered to be a stone of spiritual growth, Kammererite is associated with the third eye and crown chakras. Their vibration helps to balance the brain and thereby be beneficial to your thinking. They also help to create a more harmonious life. It is said to relieve pain and stiffness in muscles and joints. Because it is part of the chlorite group, although not containing the green color usually associated with chlorites, it helps to release anger, guilt fear and negative emotions. If used during meditation, it can help alleviate “monkey mind” that often plagues one during meditation. These stones are highly protective and may be used in a grid to protect your home. There are many ways to do this that you can find on the Internet. The simplest one I found was to smudge your home and place protective crystals in each corner of your home. You can even bury them in the corners of your property. Thanks to Al, our new Crystal Guru, we have learned about a crystal of which none of us were familiar! I feel like I have a lot of random things to write about, this month, so I apologize for the lack of cohesion! First, I created a second website to work alongside inspiredbyearth.com. Inspired by Earth will have all detail-oriented stuff, like class dates and times, Death Cafe meetings, etc. The new site, www.sandracoyner.com, is more to go along with my book so there is a blog on the home page so we can continue discussing life lessons as they pop up.
At some point in July, Zoom is going to require either a password or a waiting room on meetings. I cannot have a waiting room for the yoga classes in case someone tries to come in late...I won't be able to stop and let them in. So, when the time comes where you are asked for a password, I decided the password needed to be something with a positive vibration for the Universe so the password is peace. You can share my classes and PW with anyone you like. I am super excited to share that I have been asked to be interviewed on a local podcast to discuss my book, death (Death Cafe meetings and End-of-Life Doula work), and whatever else comes up:) I will send out more information when I have it. Please, please, please...if you haven't already, please take a moment to add a review to my book on Amazon if you have read it AND please subscribe to my YouTube channel. It is interesting how limited you are on both of these if you do not meet certain numbers. I did receive my second batch of books if anyone wants one from me versus ordering on Amazon- just let me know. This is ultra random but you may have noticed I change the background of this newsletter each month to correlate with the season or holidays. I have decided the background is staying green or pink- the colors of the heart chakra- until this world seems to be in a better space. Sending out shanti (peace). Lastly, the blog I have set up on sandracoyner.com is interactive. I am hoping you will comment so we can engage in conversation. I have been avoiding discussing the C.V. words (think) because I do not want to give those words any power in my space. I guess it's kind of like saying Beetlejuice three times! So, I have decided I will refer to C.V. as something else. Check out my blog to find out what and why I chose this name; toss in anything you want to talk about regarding this challenging time. Amazon link to leave review: https://www.amazon.com/Horizon-Here-Finding-Lessons-Everyday/dp/B088BHTTYR/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+horizon+is+here&qid=1590969011&sr=8-1 YouTube link to subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9b8ULuY6A2uAuoxC2iaO2Q -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I am holding my next virtual Death Cafe meeting on Monday July 13 at 6pm. The Zoom link is on www.inspiredbyearth.com and the password is peace. You can also find my meetings on www.deathcafe.com as Death Cafe Western Suburbs Chicago. If you have never been to one, please consider joining me in a safe space to organically talk about death. There is no meeting agenda and the intention is to make this a more comfortable and normal conversation. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yoga Class Schedule ALL classes will remain ONLINE on Zoom at the original days/times. The Zoom code to access any of my classes is https://zoom.us/j/8033508899 . The password, if asked, is peace. *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative *TUESDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) *WEDNESDAY'S: 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative The classes are currently free and all are welcome to join. If you miss a class, I am posting them to my YouTube page, which can be found by searching my name or by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9b8ULuY6A2uAuoxC2iaO2Q ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED HEALING STONE: Amazonite by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire Once again, we are facing a month of some uncertainty. With this in mind, I have chosen to write about a crystal of hope, Amazonite. This green or blue-green stone derives its name from the Amazon River in Brazil where there are many deposits. Jewelry utilizing this stone was produced as long as four thousand years age in India, Sudan, Mesopotamia and Egypt. One chapter of the Egyptian Book of the Dead is said to have been written on Amazonite. An Amazonite scarab ring was found among Tutankhamen’s treasures. It was used in Central and South America and is said to have been worn by the women warriors who also bear the Amazon name. Amazonite is deeply stimulating to both the heart and the throat chakras. Allowing one to express one’s heart through communication, it opens the throat chakra to help those who tend to repress their own thoughts and feelings due to fear of confrontation or conflict. This stone is excellent for those in positions of conflict resolution or those who need to communicate effectively. This stone is one of hope and harmony both within one’s self and among people as it can work as a truth-teller and a peacemaker. It gently soothes the nerves and radiates rejuvenating vibrations that calm the heart. Any environment in which Amazonite is placed will calm the energy and fill the space with positive vibes. Because of this, it has been called the “peacemaker stone.” Like the Amazon River, it provides flowing energies encouraging adventure, love, inspiration and free speech. Amazonite is known for maintaining good health in general. It aids in cell regeneration and healing after illnesses, trauma or injury, and relieves muscle spasms. It may be used in treating disorders of the nervous system and blockages in the flow of neural impulses, as well as issues with the throat and thyroid gland. The word, Amazon, has come to invoke many different images---that of the lush foliage of the Amazon Rainforest, the Warrior Amazon women of myth and legend and Amazon.com on which we have come to rely more than ever! This might just be the stone of hope and harmony that we need right now! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Featured Quote: “When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace.” --Jimi Hendrix  counting blessings...
A lot has transpired in the past month or so. First of all, a HUGE thank you to those of you who have let me know you purchased my book. I appreciate it so much. Some of you are sending me texts as you move through the chapters while others have sent me pictures of themselves holding the book. It truly is surreal. If you ordered one through me, my shipment is expected June 6 and I will reach out to you ASAP. I would love for any and all of you to send me a testimonial about the book to put on my website if you feel so inclined and/or write a review on Amazon. The book can be ordered through Amazon and it is called The Horizon is Here. It is currently available as a paperback or e-book but I have had a few requests for an audio version so will be looking into that. I am saddened by the state this country is in and the lack of respect towards all human beings. I can only encourage you to watch my yoga class video on YouTube called Metta/The Loving Kindness Meditation. If the least we can do is send good intentions out into the world then this should be a fabulous start to raising a positive vibration in the world. As a collective, I would love to do more so send me any ideas you have. As the Loving Kindness Mediation says, May you all be happy, May you all be peaceful, May you all be healthy, May you all feel loved. From my heart chakra straight to yours:) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Horizon is Here pushes aside coincidence to show everything happens for a reason. As you learn to explore your day rather than simply relay experiences, you will learn that you have all the answers you need. This book is to point you in the direction of deciphering your own life lessons. We have all exclaimed, “You will never believe what happened to me today!” We reiterate the detail, get to the end…and stop. But, the story's end is not the end, and we rarely take it further to consider the Universe's intentions. Why did this happen to me today? What is the lesson? What is the reminder I needed to hear? The lessons in this book are for everyone. They are reminders to stay present and to see choices and challenges instead of obstacles. My heart's intention is to offer perspective through stories that show how to stand back from one's life in order to see the biggest picture. My every day stories are meant as a reminder that our lessons are here in the present, not way off in the horizon. https://www.amazon.com/Horizon-Here-Finding-Lessons-Everyday/dp/B088BHTTYR/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+horizon+is+here&qid=1590969011&sr=8-1 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yoga Class Schedule ALL classes will remain ONLINE through the month of June on Zoom at the original days/times. The Zoom code to access any of my classes is https://zoom.us/j/8033508899 . *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative *TUESDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) *WEDNESDAY'S: 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative The classes are currently free and all are welcome to join. If you miss a class, I am posting them to my YouTube page, which can be found by searching my name or by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9b8ULuY6A2uAuoxC2iaO2Q ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FEATURED HEALING STONE: Smoky Quartz by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire As we are heading out of quarantine and very stressful times, we may want to examine the condition of our root chakra which has been under duress for the past several months. Signs that this chakra is imbalanced include anxiety, restlessness, fear, panic attacks, worry and depression. Who among us has not felt at least one of these over the past three months! There is help to be had in the form of Smoky Quartz which is one of the most grounding and clearing stones available and is especially useful when balancing the root chakra. Smoky Quartz was known as a Stone of Power. To the ancient Druids, it was sacred and signified the potent dark power of Earth gods and goddesses. In other cultures, it guided souls to the afterlife, served in shamanistic rituals and tribal ceremonies, and was utilized in magic and scrying to connect with spirits of the lower worlds. Smoky Quartz’s phenomenal power, then and now, lies in its ability to protect and ground one physically and spiritually to this world, and to absorb and transmute significant amounts of negative energy and release it into the Earth to be neutralized naturally. It provides a vital shield against psychic attack, emotional and environmental stress, and is used extensively in healing and meditation. Smoky Quartz is one of the most powerful grounding and cleansing stones and can be compared to the smoke of a sage bundle for clearing negative energy. It enhances practicality and organization. It lends focus to students and patience to teachers. It is also said to counter the negative effects of radiation, sunburn and exposure to energies emitted from electronic devices. The root chakra must be cleared and balanced in order for the other chakras to be balanced, allowing energy to flow easily through all. When the root chakra is in balance, the physical body gains strength and stamina, and spiritual energy is rekindled in the form of security and sense of one’s own power. It often leads to independence and spontaneous leadership, some things that we all need at this point. It is an easy addition to your crystal collection as it is readily available throughout the world.  counting blessings...
I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who has joined me in my live online classes. I appreciate the ability to maintain some semblance of a schedule and share energy, laughs, and stories at the same time! I also thank those of you who have gone to my YouTube channel to practice yoga "with me" at your own timing and leisure. Some of you have left or sent me kind messages about the classes, which makes me smile. So, we march on!! The classes are all continuing at their same times and days, they are all free, and they all use the same Zoom meeting ID. I try to remember to always post a class and the Zoom meeting number on my Inspired by Earth Facebook page before every class. Most of you know that each class has its own theme. If there is a theme you would like me to cover or something you are personally struggling with, let me know and I will see what I can come up with:) My YouTube channel url is listed below under Yoga Class Schedule as is the Zoom meeting ID. Feel free to invite whomever you wish.Yoga Class Schedule ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ALL classes are currently ONLINE through Zoom at the original days/times. The Zoom code to access is https://zoom.us/j/8033508899 . *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative *TUESDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) *WEDNESDAY'S: 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative The classes are currently free and all are welcome to join. If you miss a class, I am posting them to my YouTube page, which can be found by searching my name or by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9b8ULuY6A2uAuoxC2iaO2Q ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FEATURED HEALING STONE: Clear Quartz by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire As we face another month of quarantine and social distancing, it is sometimes difficult to remain calm and peaceful. That is why I decided to investigate the properties of Clear Quartz and focus on this stone for May. It is associated with the storm element which is a combination of the frequencies of the other four elements---earth, wind, water and fire. The name, Quartz, comes from the Greek word for ice and some of the Ancients believed that this crystal was water frozen so hard that it would never thaw. Clear Quartz has been the subject of folklore and spiritual beliefs for a long time. The Japanese refer to it as the perfect jewel and saw it as a symbol of infinite space, perseverance, purity and patience. Indigenous peoples of North America and Burma believed the stones to be living entities and offered food to them in rituals. The Crusaders brought crystal balls back to Europe with them and they were thought to have magical powers. In Scotland and Ireland they were used to cure diseases in cattle. In Central and South America, they were carved into the shapes of skulls which were viewed as the dwellings of gods. Clear Quartz is a powerful stone that works on all levels of the energetic and physical body. Known as the "master healer," it will amplify energy and thought, as well as the effect of other crystals. It absorbs, stores, releases and regulates energy. Clear Quartz draws off negative energy of all kinds, neutralizing background radiation, including electromagnetic smog or petrochemical pollution. It balances and revitalizes the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual planes. It cleanses and enhances the organs and acts as a deep soul cleanser, connecting the physical dimension with the mind. Clear Quartz enhances psychic abilities. It aids concentration and unlocks memory, stimulates the immune system and brings the body into balance. It brings harmony to all the chakras. This stone is especially helpful for activating the crown chakra. This chakra controls how we think about and perceive situations. Quartz can help open up the mind and elevate negative perspectives to more a enlightened point of view. Its metaphysical purposes are vast, from helping to expand consciousness to facilitating open communication and stimulating the chakras. For those needing clarity of mind, clear quartz healing properties will eliminate energy blockages and allow energy to flow smoothly throughout the body. Clear Quartz is an excellent crystal to use when meditating. It filters out and removes distractions for a good start to the meditative experience. It is useful to set a positive intention when holding this stone as it will amplify that intention. In addition, it often deepens one's experience of meditation. Clear quartz increases patience and perseverance while it imparts a greater ability to laugh, love and live life in harmony with all living things. Clear Quartz is readily available and easy to purchase online and might just be the stone to help us as we navigate this storm.  shadow to light Sometimes when newsletter time rolls around, I admit, I struggle for something to say. Today, I have a lot to say. Before all of this "stuff" (I refuse to say the C.V. words putting them out to the Universe-- they are already there thousandfold), I had scheduled my first Death Cafe meeting to be in mid-April, and I had become trained in November as an End-of-Life Doula (EOL). Explaining the first, Death Cafes were created in 2011 by Jon Underwood with the first meeting being held in his London home. The intention behind these meetings was, and still is, to make the topic of death less taboo, less scary. The meetings do not have an agenda and are guided by organic conversation by whomever shows up. They are not typically for grieving; they are for exploring whatever feels necessary to be explored at that time. As an EOL, I resonated with the most human element that no one should die alone. I did not know vigils and deaths could be pre-planned: to be carried out the way the transitioning person wanted. It was exciting, actually, to think about creating a beautiful healthy space in which to transition from. I hadn't known the dying experience could be so much more than what most of us have possibly experienced. From scents and lighting to colors and space. Fast forward to the tumultuous road my mind has been traveling down as I am imminently aware that death is all around us in an in-your-face way that it wasn't before. I have been struggling with the idea that this may not be the right time to have these talks because maybe people need to be eased into the conversation when death is not close. But, I do not think that is true. So many people are now facing this subject alone, as those transitioning are now forced to do so alone. The Yin Yang symbol reminds us of the complementary relationship of duality. Without the the dark side of the symbol, we could not know the light side; it would not exist. We, as a culture, do not typically like to address or venture into the dark side, our dark side. But we have to, and I am realizing now is the time to do so. Who on Earth would take the time to do that if we were not quarantined?! No one! We will be running for the outdoors so use this time well. My human side has been dabbling in the chaos and the fear, but at least I am aware that is time for my human side to co-mingle with my spiritual side, to be the Yin to my Yang. My human side wants the comfort of the known but has to deal with the part of me that believes there are no coincidences and that the Earth needed us to back off for awhile. We have been so collectively busy polluting the Earth and not caring. I was hoping this would open eyes to the necessity of being more eco-friendly on the other side of all this but then I read someone's FB post where they said, with everyone at home, there were too many dishes to keep up with and they were switching to paper. Our "conveniences" are not convenient to the planet. In turn, that means they are not convenient for our health. This is only one of the reasons we find ourselves here. We have to find a better way without reverting back to a normal that was not. I was originally finding myself mad that people are dying too soon because of CV. But that comes from fear. It does not parallel with my belief, which is that we come here to learn necessary and chosen lessons. We leave when we have done so. I am realizing this may be the lesson we chose to endure. You don't have to agree with me whatsoever. We all have opinions, and opinions are notoriously not based in fact. But, it is this belief that led me to became an EOL and Death Cafe host. When this is behind us, it may be me and my beliefs you may rely upon to sit with your loved ones who are passing when you can no longer do it yourself, mentally or physically. In my Reiki practice, I have received messages from people who are no longer living so my personal belief about death, and life after, is rather strong. My Libra scales are struggling for balance; I am trying to not permit my human side to step forward with fabled stories of Worry and Fear. I have to go back to what I know and am comfortable with. Love is the essential ingredient in our collective lives, and death is the only constant in an ever changing world for those who are alive. Speaking of non-coincidences, this is my 44th newsletter. In numerology, 44 is a master healing number. The number represents solid constant ground for present and future generations. And the number 4, by itself, is a very earthy number. (Again, a sign from our planet?) Forty-four represents balance and building a foundation. That means now is the time to build upon a new new. Do not be afraid of your shadows. The line between the dark and light sides of the Yin Yang symbol should truly be blurred though both are represented within each other to create a whole. My human and spiritual sides are still testing each other as I write this but I have to dig deeper. Balance is the only way. And by the time I write again, it will be for newsletter #45, a number that represents seeking your higher purpose. To more easily manifest that purpose, stop to set your foundation right now. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Yoga Class Schedule ALL classes are currently ONLINE through Zoom at the original days/times. The Zoom code to access is https://zoom.us/j/8033508899 . *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative *TUESDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) *WEDNESDAY'S: 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative The classes are currently free and all are welcome to join. If you miss a class, I am posting them to my YouTube page, which can be found by searching my name or by following this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9b8ULuY6A2uAuoxC2iaO2Q -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED HEALING STONE: Lepidolite by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire As we are entering spring and the month of April, we are faced with more adversity than merely April showers. Facing the challenges of quarantine and social distancing may be adding additional stress to everyday life. As we try to remain calm and centered, we may experience anxiety every so often. Lepidolite is a stone that may be of assistance in these trying times. The name, Lepidolite, comes from the Greek word for scale because of its association with restoring balance and harmony. Its intense blue color evokes the spirit of the sky and the oceans, the life-giving elements of the planet in the never-ending cycle of life. Lepidolite is most effective in calming frayed nerves, helping one to release stress and worry, and is at its best when life is most challenging. It is a stone of serenity helping one to balance emotional extremes. It helps one to find a strong, stable emotional center. As one of the best mood stabilizers in the world of gemstones, the Lepidolite crystal contains a high amount of lithium, which is also used in anti-anxiety medication. However, Lepidolite doesn't require a prescription and side effects include a sense of calm and tranquility during times of stress and chaos. Call on Lepidolite to balance the mind and spirit, especially when you need to cool off fiery emotions. This gentle healing stone stimulates all chakras, dissolving energy blocks keeping you from true happiness. It is especially tied to the heart and third eye chakra. You can even take a bath with this stone in the water! If you don't have Lepidolite and are unable to obtain it right now, there are other stones that promote calming of anxiety. Some of these are: amethyst, angelite, fluorite, blue lace agate, rose quartz, and black tourmaline. So, meditate, hold on to your crystals, do yoga with Sandra, listen to calming music, turn off the news for a good part of the day, exercise, go for a walk, get enough sleep and be in the moment. As Michael Symon says, "Tough times don't last, tough people do!" We have the mental toughness and our yoga tools to get through this, and we are all in this together. Shanti! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED QUOTE: "Yin and Yang in themselves are of course opposites, so we use Yin and Yang to generalize opposing elements such as up and down, left and right, day and night, water and fire, male and female, inside and outside. But Yin and Yang do not exist in separated and independent forms. Yin and Yang are two faces of a whole, or, it may be said, Yin and Yang join together and combine into a whole." JINGHAN HE, Bagua Daoyin: A Unique Branch of Daoist Learning, A Secret Skill of the Palace |
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