Three Questions...
I recently shared with my restorative class a meditation technique called Naikon, which is Japanese for looking within with the mind's eye. This type of meditation focuses on being able to see the reality of one's life with a broader lens. We think we see our life as it is but we add on opinion, viewpoints, and the like. So, to obtain this truer perspective, one starts by asking, What did I receive today? Every little thing counts! A smile from someone, a purr from a cat, a door held open, soft sheets, etc, etc. Intention does not matter. For example, it does not matter if someone meant to hold the door for you or it happened by chance. Take about five minutes to thoroughly answer this question. After identifying all the gifts we received, let's assume for a moment we are now in debt to the Universe. The second question is, What did I give away today? Did you give a treat to your dog? Did you empty the dishwasher? Think of everything and intention, again, does not matter. No judgement, no ego, and no analytical thinking. Just facts. Remember, if someone smiled at you, and that was a gift received, don't forget to count it as a gift given away each time you smiled upon someone else. After answering this question, has your debt to the Universe been paid? Are you in balance or do some areas need more work? Lastly, ask yourself, What did I do to cause disruption or trouble today? In class, I used the example that I made my dog get off the bed so I could change the sheets. My dad would tell you I have been disruptive to him for the past month:) He turns 80 this month and does not know the birthday plan agenda. But, just to mess with him as any good daughter should do, every day I send him a meme that says "Just keep thinking, just keep thinking." ( I will really need to focus on question two to maintain any semblance of balance this month!) The last question is usually hardest because we typically do not see how we cause stress to others though we find it easy to point out when other people trigger ours. Let me know what you think of this meditation. You can direct the questions broadly to your entire day, focus on a particular relationship, or even an object. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEXT YOGA OUTING! Sunday March 8th at Healing Arts after Restorative Yoga. Amber will guide us through making drawstring oracle card holder bags (or for other purposes!) Please bring your own fabric and ribbon:) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yoga Class Schedule *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative *TUESDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) *WEDNESDAY'S: 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative ALL CLASSES at Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia All levels, $15, Walk-in's welcome ------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED HEALING STONE: Snowflake Obsidian by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire Snowflake Obsidian seems an appropriate stone for March, a month of transition that can see snowflakes at any time! The stone gets its name from the white patches known as phenocrysts that look like snowflakes. Also called flowering obsidian, it is a volcanic glass that is formed when lava cools and a type of quartz is formed in it as the lava hardens. Because of its volcanic origins, it helps draw emotions to the surface allowing the user to see the dark and uncomfortable sides of their nature. Because it is a patterned stone, it helps the wearer see patterns in their thoughts and behaviors. It may help to achieve a good balance in spirit, mind and body. Associated with the Root Chakra and the Third Eye Chakra, it is a stone that helps one recognize the guidance and support that are available through the natural world. It helps in attuning to animal totems and animal allies. It assists in becoming more receptive to healing energy and a healing attitude. It is also connected to guardian spirits and divine guides reminding us to open our Third Eye Chakra to the messages that the universe is sending us. As is the case with many black stones, it is a powerful grounding and protection stone that keeps one growing even when it seems that everything is falling apart. It can be used as a cleanser of negative energies in both the environment and life. It is said to aid in disorders of the veins and skeletal structure. It improves circulation and treats arthritis and hardening of the arteries. Snowflake Obsidian carries courage and persistence to those on the edge of hope, bringing balance and stability during changing times. Like a sky full of beautiful snowflakes, snowflake obsidian restores a deep, abiding sense of protection and reverence. It reminds us that spring is on the way even though there may be plenty of snowflakes in our immediate future! -------------------------------------------------- FEATURED QUOTE: “We can be sure that the greatest hope for maintaining equilibrium in the face of any situation rests within ourselves.” - Francis J. Braceland
0 Comments
An Empty Plate
"The more things change, the more they stay the same." French writer Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr I went to MSU to visit my son. I compared and contrasted what college had been like when I went to IU a million years ago: no computers, no cell phones, no Googling. At the time, I was enchanted with my electronic typewriter because it had a window about 1"x3" to see what I was typing and it could save my papers so I didn't have use white-out or start over. When I lived in the dorm, daily cafeteria menus listed 2-3 items to choose from. You would pick up a tray and walk through the line. Your plate would be passed down and you would indicate what you wanted put on it. It was very common to end up with things on your plate you did not want to eat, whether by being misheard or lack of choice. My son's cafeterias have stations where you can choose from a plethora of items; he is apparently well-known at the quinoa station (so much for mac' n cheese!). I started thinking about how the empty plate is an analogy for each day in our lives. Let's say you ask for rice but get mashed potatoes splattered onto your plate instead. You say nothing and move on to add other items. You ask for the grilled chicken but end up with fried. The green beans you pointed to became green peas sprawling over the mashed potatoes. You go sit down. How many times are you willing to accept what other people dump on your plate...you day? Exactly which non-ecofriendly straw is the one that will break your camel's back? When people want to dump their issues on you, stop for a moment to consider your well-being. Is this a friend needing to vent? Is it a stranger having a bad day, creating chaos in their path? Does it matter?? If you cannot see your plate through the lunch items upon it, you do not have the capacity to hold someone else's stuff. You come first and you need to clear your own plate that day. I am all about kindness and compassion but not to the detriment of you. You do not have to accept other people's emotional baggage when they bring it by for you to sort through. You are allowed to kindly establish boundaries. Your plate is allowed to hold only what you choose. Some days, our plates are overflowing with our own stuff. Other days, we can gleefully see a lot of white on our plate and that feels freeing because there is time to be, to manifest, or to even do nothing. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- YOGA OUTINGS! February- Alien Encounter Room- Friday, February 7th 7:30pm ipanic Escape Room in St Charles Should be a few spots left! Follow link to sign up! http://www.ipanicescaperoom.com/home.html March- Sunday March 8th at Healing Arts after Restorative Yoga. Amber will guide us through making drawstring oracle card holder bags (or for other purposes!) See below. (Not everyone needs to bring a sewing machine!!) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yoga Class Schedule *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative Watch my website- may need to cancel Feb. 16! *TUESDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) *WEDNESDAY'S: 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative ALL CLASSES at Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia All levels, $15, Walk-in's welcome --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED HEALING STONE: Rhodochrosite by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, it is nice to examine a stone that is said to emanate the most tender and loving energies of any stone. The name is derived from the Greek word meaning pink. The stone can be traced back to the Incas who called the stone “Inca Rose.” According to legend, these pink stones formed the blood of kings and queens which was turned into stone upon their deaths. Rhodochrosite was formed in the Incan silver mines after they were abandoned in the thirteenth century. Other specimens have been found in Colorado. As a stone of the heart chakra, Rhodochrosite assists the self in emotional healing and enhancing the courage to look at old wounds, suppressed feelings and trauma of childhood to release pain and destructive habits that may have served as a coping mechanism. It soothes the heart and comforts the soul to help one become everything one was meant to be. It vibrates the frequencies of inner peace and self-forgiveness. Rhodochrosite forms a bridge between the lower chakras of Fire and the upper chakras of water. Because of its relationship to both elements, it has the capacity to cool emotional heat and provide insight into issues of the heart and will thus restoring one’s sense of wholeness and confidence to use one’s will in creating one’s reality. Because it resonates so closely with the inner child, it helps one to reclaim joy and playfulness, creativity and innate talents that may have lain dormant. It inspires a dynamic and positive attitude, as well as a courageous heart capable of taking action to express love and emotions and to pursue one’s dreams. So, no matter what brand of love you are looking for, be it romantic, love of family, friends or self-love, this is a great stone to help you to reach these goals in this area of your life. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED QUOTE: In February there is everything to hope for and nothing to regret. Patience Strong Yoga is a practice meant to take off the mat as it is not about one's resume of poses. If you made it to my last 2019 class, you were taken through a review of all of the group outings we have done off the mat. Perhaps, it started with Amber's idea to try goat yoga. We goat to try it after exclaiming, you've goat to be kidding me and it was unforgoatable (so sorry!). We've done quite a few escape rooms, which lead me to Ram Dass' quote, "If you think you are free, there's no escape possible." We went indoor skydiving rocking our best bow poses up in the air. Steven Wright warned, "If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you." For Halloween, we went on a tour of the Joliet Prison, itself a theme about the invisible bars we lock ourselves behind. Unlock the door to your mental prison and set your spirit free this year. Try something new. Let go of the past. Lewis Smedes wrote, "To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you." We got crafty painting wooden signs and compared that to allowing our yoga mat to be a blank canvas of the poses we want it to be. Allow this year to be that same blank canvas and manifest whatever it is you dare to dream. Claude Monet wrote, "I want to paint the way a bird sings," Live your life that way, free and uncontained. We went to a Pub Trivia Night allowing our minds to collectively work off the mat rather than being consumed with thought while on. Amber piped up again to teach us how to make really cute bookmarks. Think of a bookmark as holding space for you and allow that for yourself when you need a pause. We tried something new and did paddle board yoga and we opened our throat chakras at a couple kirtans and Mani/Pedi Karaoke Night. We exchanged heartfelt Secret Santa gifts and quoted Roald Dahl in saying, " And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it." Open your eyes to the magic this year and the signs and messages from the Universe will astound you. Lastly, I quoted Benjamin Franklin who said, "Three may keep a secret, if two of them are dead", which segues right into the Murder Mystery party we acted out (poor Amber was the victim...perhaps, someone wasn't too fond of goat yoga??!) Agatha Christie wrote, "Time is the best killer." Don't let it be in this New Year. Take advantage of every moment and be present to what will come. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NEXT ESCAPE... Who's in for Friday, February 7th, iPanic Escape Room in St Charles?? RSVP by Jan 12 so I can see which rooms we fit in. Start times are in evening- you can follow link below to check out the place. After I have a head count, I will send you an email telling you which room to reserve:) http://www.ipanicescaperoom.com/home.html ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yoga Class Schedule *SUNDAY'S: 10-11:15am, Gentle/Restorative *NO class Jan. 5th *TUESDAY'S: 9-10:15am, Inspired Vinyasa (All Levels) *WEDNESDAY'S: 6-7:15pm, Gentle/Restorative ALL CLASSES at Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia All levels, $15, Walk-in's welcome ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED HEALING STONE: MALACHITE by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire Happy New Year and welcome to 2020! As we begin a new year it seems like we are always striving to improve our circumstances. Malachite may just be the stone to help in that endeavor. The name Malachite comes from the Greek word malakee that signifies the resemblance to the mallow tree. Malachite was known in Egypt as early as 3000 B.C. and was also popular with the ancient Greeks and Romans for jewelry, ornaments and, in powdered form, for eye shadow! In the Middle Ages, it was believed to protect against the evil eye and to cure various types of stomach ailments. The Russian Czars used it to produce ornaments and paneling for their castles as well as for intricate inlay work. This is an important stone for protection from negative energies. It permeates the aura with positive vibrations and strengthens our shield which can screen out hostile forces. It activates our psychic intuition which helps us to perceive the presence of danger. It even activates the vibration of luck which seeks to keep one safe and protected. As a protection stone, it absorbs negatives energies and pollutants from the atmosphere and the body. It guards against radiation of all kinds be it from television, microwaves or other sources. It is also said to be a stone of travel. It overcomes fears of flying especially if you envision yourself in the wings of the Archangel Raphael. It helps with jet lag and encourages smooth travel and protects in travel on congested highways. This beautiful green stone emanates healthy patterns for the heart and solar plexus chakras. It assists in maintaining emotional balance and seeing one’s own emotional traps and pitfalls and, therefore, helping to avoid these. By strengthening the solar plexus chakra, it enhances willpower making it easier to resist all sorts of temptations from ice cream to infidelity! It is easier to act for one’s higher good in the presence of malachite. Malachite, with its deep connection to nature, is a must-have for city or suburban dwellers. It personifies the deep healing green of nature and represents the innate beauty of flowers, trees, roots and plants. It is recommended to place a large piece in your living room to remove environmental pollution and bring the wonders of nature into your home. Malachite reminds us to turn over a new leaf and, as such, is a perfect stone for the new year. This stone is readily available and certainly a welcome addition to your collection. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FEATURED QUOTE: Germany Kent "Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction." 'Tis the season for gifting and so I am giving you the gift of my grandma's best-ever German Chocolate Cake recipe! Grandma Frieda’s German Chocolate Cake 4oz bar Bakers German Sweet Chocolate ½ C boiling water 1 C butter 2 C sugar 4 egg yolks 4 egg whites stiffened 1 tsp vanilla 2 ¼ C flour or 2 1/2C cake flour 1 tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt 1 C buttermilk 1 1/3 C Coconut 1 C pecans 1C evaporated milk Break up chocolate in small bowl- pour hot water over (not over heat)- cover and set aside. Mix butter and sugar- beat fluffy. Add yolks one at a time and beat after each. Blend vanilla in with chocolate- let cool. Then add to egg/sugar mixture. Mix flour, baking soda and salt. Mix this alternately with the buttermilk ending with flour. Stiffen egg white. Fold into mixture. Pour into pans- will make 3 round layers. Bake 350 degrees, 30 min’s. Frosting: 1C evaporated milk 1C sugar 3 slightly beaten yolks 1/2 cup butter 1 tsp vanilla 1 1/3 cup coconut 1 cup chopped pecans Mix evaporated milk, sugar and yolks together in saucepan. Add ½ C butter and 1 tsp vanilla. Stir over medium heat until thick about 10-12 min’s. Scorches easily! Take off heat and add 1 1/3C coconut and 1C chopped pecans. Spread over tops of layers, not down sides. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- YOGA SECRET SANTA! For those who submitted their names, a reminder our SECRET YOGI GIFT EXCHANGE is on Sunday Dec. 22 after the Restorative class. *For my Tuesday class, I will email you the date! ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yoga Class Schedule *Gentle/Restorative classes every Wednesday evening from 6-7:15pm. Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) All Levels, Walk-ins, $15 **Because Christmas, New Year's and the Full Moon Celebration all fall on Wednesday's in December, we will only have Wednesday class on Dec. 4 and 18th! *Gentle/Restorative classes every Sunday from 10-11:15am. Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) All Levels, Walk-ins, $15 *Inspired Vinyasa (Level 1), Tuesday's, 9-10:15am Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) $15/walk-ins **Because Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve fall on Tuesday's, our class will be on Monday for those two weeks: Monday Dec. 23 and 30th Reiki Sessions, Reiki Classes and Oracle Card Readings are available as you need. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED HEALING STONE: TANZANITE by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire December’s birthstone is the beautiful blue violet Tanzanite. This stone was discovered for the first time in 1967 and was named by Tiffany and Company in honor of the site on which it was found in Tanzania. Scientists, however, still refer to it as blue Zoisite. Since it is a rather newly discovered gemstone, legend and superstition surrounding it have not existed for centuries as is the case with many other stones. It is supposed to be one of the most important metaphysical stones as it integrates the energies of the mind and heart. This integration takes place through the linkage and attunement of the heart and third-eye chakras. This allows one to perceive situations, experiences and circumstances from the perspective of enlightened compassion. In Tanzania, women who have given birth wear Tanzanite to bestow a healthy, positive life to their newborns. It is purported to dispel lethargy, detoxify and reduce inflammation in the body and strengthen the immune system. As a creative stone, Tanzanite assists it helping a person to manifest themselves rather than being influenced by others. It aligns the heart and mind, allowing for a more balanced, centered experience of spirituality. It can be used to help calm the overactive mind and calm exhausted adrenals. During the month of December when everyone is so busy getting ready for the holidays amid work and other obligations, one would do well to remember the calming properties of Tanzanite and use this stone to bring peace and calming to our world. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED QUOTE: Where there is cake, there is hope. And there is always cake. Dean Koontz connection... Reiki practitioners are taught that we are not the healer; we are simply a conduit for intensifying a client's life force energy so the client can do their own healing. And, that is true. While I have seen a lot of ailments "vanish" after Reiki, I always attribute the healing to the energy and the client, themselves. When I teach Reiki at the local high schools, it always leads to a conversation about chakras; it has to, right?! I explain how the chakras have a relationship with everything going on in one's world. Your energy imbalances will affect the colors you choose to wear, the foods you eat, the dis-eases that manifest in your body; they connect to animal totems, musical notes, elements, essential oils, crystals... the list goes on and on. I am usually very astute about recognizing how there are no coincidences and everything in our personal world is tied to everything else. Except, I recently ventured into a new arena and did not take this knowledge with me. I thought I was learning something new and did not see how, of course, the new knowledge tied in with the old. I missed it. I am working on my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I went in thinking counselors can help fix situations by guiding. Why would that be true when Reiki practitioners do not fix ailments? I missed that initially. I thought I had to fill silent spaces with more questions; I did not see the answers are in the silence. Why would I not see this when I know our answers exist in the silence of meditation?? I missed it. I tell you this, because we can "know" a lot of things, and we can teach a lot of things. But, our humanness can distract us from what should be obvious. I had an Oprah "ah-ha" moment when I realized I had not connected what I know to be true from my yoga/Reiki world with what I was learning in the counseling world. I'm not going to lie; I was a little disappointed with myself for missing the obvious. But it certainly has reinforced my premise that everything is connected. Keep living from the seat of the student by exploring new paths and remaining curious about life. Just don't forget to connect the dots as you do. John Muir wrote,"When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- YOGA FIELD TRIP Kicking off the month of Halloween with...A Haunted History Joliet Prison Tour Sunday Oct. 6 6-7:30pm Spots are very limited- You must reserve your space prior! https://www.jolietprison.org/ $30/person.
"Currently, tours of the Prison are primarily conducted outdoors, rain or shine. As tour site encompasses approximately eight acres, a substantial amount of walking is required. Visitors are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather conditions and wear comfortable, closed-toe footwear conducive to walking. While the majority of the tour is accessible, due to the age and condition of the site, certain areas of the tour may not be fully compliant with ADA standards. Those requiring special accommodations are requested to contact Museum staff at least 72 hours prior to their visit." -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yoga Class Schedule *Gentle/Restorative classes every Wednesday evening from 6-7:15pm. Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) All Levels, Walk-ins, $15 *Gentle/Restorative classes every Sunday from 10-11:15am. Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) All Levels, Walk-ins, $15 Subs: Oct. 13 *Inspired Vinyasa (Level 1), most Tuesday's, 8-10:15am 1 E Benton St,, Aurora, downstairs. Parking in back or on street. $12/class, walk-in, all levels. Reiki Sessions, Reiki Classes and Oracle Card Readings are available as you need. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED HEALING STONE: Opal by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire Opal, the focus of this article, is one of two birthstones associated with October, the other being pink tourmaline. Associated with love and passion, Opal was commonly given to celebrate the 14th year of marriage. The name is thought to be derived from the Sanskrit upala or Latin opalus meaning precious stone. As is the case with many stones, Opals were associated with various beliefs. Romans linked the stone with good luck and hope. The French believed that the stone could render the wearer invisible, allowing him to steal without being caught! Australian legend purports that a giant Opal governs the stars, human love and gold within the mines of Earth! In Asia, it is a symbol of hope. Although there are many kinds of opals, white precious opal is the best known and most widely used in jewelry. Most of these come from Australia but other deposits have been found in Brazil, Guatemala, Honduras and the US. Opal is an emotional amplifier which stimulates originality and creativity and helps in accessing and expressing one’s true self. Opal is absorbent and reflective and, as such, it picks up thoughts and feelings, amplifies them and then sends them back. Opal is a karmic stone sending you the message "what you put out here comes back to you three-fold". It is a protective stone, if you program it correctly it is said that you will become invisible and unnoticeable to others. For several years, opals came into disfavor as they were thought to bring bad luck, especially if one purchased them for oneself! Gem historians report that this was due to Sir Walter Scott’s novel Anne of Geuerstein which was written in 1829. This was the story of Lady Hermione who was falsely accused of being a demoness and died shortly after a drop of holy water accidentally fell on her opal and destroys its color. The public took this to mean that this author was warning of the bad luck an opal can bring, so they stopped buying the beautiful gemstone. Sir Walter Scott succeeded in destroying the European opal market for almost 50 years with really, no real merit whatsoever. Within months of the novel being published, the opal market crashed, and prices were down 50%. Fortunately, a black opal was found in Australia fifty years later and the myth of bad luck disintegrated. Now it is seen as a stone that brings spiritual light into the aura enhancing cosmic consciousness and raising one’s level of intuition and insight. Opal enhances the energies of other stones such as amethyst, citrine, quartzes, jasper and lapis. Add this stone to your collection to assist with skin disorders such as rosacea, psoriasis and eczema. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED QUOTE: "In nature we never see anything isolated, but everything in connection with something else which is before it, beside it, under it and over it." Johann Wolfgang von Goethe "The first week of August hangs at the very top of summer, the top of the live-long year, like the highest seat of a Ferris wheel when it pauses in its turning." ~Natalie Babbitt, Tuck Everlasting -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Om Ah Hum. We chanted this mantra in class recently, and it made quite an impact on all of us. The Sanskrit words are easy...three simple syllables, yet the meaning behind them are rich and inspiring. There being three words represents the trinity of body, speech, and spirit. Om is all sounds in the Universe and, in this mantra, is about purification of the physical body. We first release and let go or let be. Then, we are able to consider, what can we open up to inviting in? Ah represents speech and the throat chakra. In this mantra, it is a hope of purifying our spoken word. Of course, that needs to come from pure thought, as well. And, Hum (pronounced with a long u), represents a purification of the Spirit. The chant is peaceful and can be focused upon in a couple of ways. You could sit quietly, take a deep inhale, and on the exhale chant aloud Om Ah Hum as if it were one word...Omahhum. Or, as we did in class, say the words in your head aligning them with the breath. Inhale Om. Pause the breath and say Ah. Exhale Hum. I hope you will consider giving this mantra a try. Gift yourself the time to pause and soak the mantra's meaning in. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yoga Class Schedule *Gentle/Restorative classes every Wednesday evening from 6-7:15pm. Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) All Levels, Walk-ins, $15 *Gentle/Restorative classes every Sunday from 10-11:15am. Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) All Levels, Walk-ins, $15 NO CLASS Sunday Sept. 8 *Inspired Vinyasa (Level 1), most Tuesday's, 8-10:15am 1 E Benton St,, Aurora, downstairs. Parking in back or on street. $12/class, walk-in, all levels. Email me first to see if we are having class that week. NO CLASS Tuesday Sept. 10 Reiki Sessions, Reiki Classes and Angel Card Readings are available as you need. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FEATURED HEALING STONE: Peridot by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire Peridot, the birthstone for August, has fallen in and out of popularity for centuries. Since ancient times, it has been viewed as a symbol of the sun and was sometimes worn as a protection against evil spirits. In ancient Greece, it was believed to confer the energy of royalty to the person wearing it. If one wore it engraved with the symbol of a torchbearer in thirteenth century England, it was believed to bring wealth. That idea of Peridot as a stone of prosperity has resurfaced in the present day. Associated with the sun, this yellow-green stone has been prized for its protective powers to drive away the forces of darkness. Set in gold and worn around the neck or left arm, it was a charm to protect against sorcery, magic, evil spirits and madness. It is supposed to be effective for those who suffer from recurrent nightmares. It is a stone associated with both the heart and solar plexus chakras. As such, it is excellent for use in recovery from substance dependencies and other addictions. It is considered very effective in amplifying Reiki energies. The green energy of Peridot activates the heart chakra and can be used to relieve heaviness of the heart and heart related imbalances. The yellow energy activates the solar plexus chakra and helps to fight infections, allergic reactions and gives strength to the body to utilize nutrients to the best of its ability. Ancient Egyptians knew it as the gem of the sun and as such, it is the perfect stone for the late summer month of August. The vibration brings an inner sense of warmth and well-being, just like the sunshine on an August day. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED QUOTE: Silence is the language of god, all else is poor translation. ~ Rumi whole or broken pieces put together? All families are broken. All communities are broken. All countries are broken. We, as individuals, are supposed to be broken. Someone said this to me recently, and I immediately loved it! We are so busy trying to fix things, to be perfect...if our normal is to be broken, it takes a lot of weight off us to find this illusory perfection. Norman Fischer wrote, "Conflict isn't abnormal, it's not a failure: it's the rule" (Ego Is the Real Culprit). He continues in his article to say all arguments are a fight for identity. My version of I and your version of I are going to be different; they have to be. We learn from our environment, the people around us, and our life experiences. We can never see them fully in the same way. American investigative journalist Eric Schlosser stated, "Different people, in good faith, can look at the same fact and interpret it differently." So, what does that leave us with? Acceptance. I accept you and the conditioning that made you, you. I accept the disagreements, because they are as normal to life as breath is to living. I allow myself, in all my broken glory, to see my cracks as art, rather than imperfections, and I honor that which makes me different as I honor that in you. There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it. Edith Wharton Read more at: https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/edith_wharton_100511?src=t_light"What you want? Baby, I Got It!" This section is for everyone to post things they collect for others or help with ideas/implementation. Karma Yoga section, if you will:) PLEASE send me ideas! For example, what are you always collecting for groups you work with? I am always collecting candy and new little toys or books to put in birthday gift bags for a charity called Box of Balloons. They deliver birthday boxes full of gifts, decorations, games, cupcakes and party favors to kids in shelters or to kids who simply cannot afford a birthday party. If you are affiliated with a group (great for Girl/Boy Scouts, you can adopt a box and have your group fill the whole thing:)Yoga Class Schedule *Gentle/Restorative classes every Wednesday evening from 6-7:15pm. Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) All Levels, Walk-ins, $15 NO CLASS WED. JULY 3 *Gentle/Restorative classes every Sunday from 10-11:15am. Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) All Levels, Walk-ins, $15 *Inspired Vinyasa (Level 1), most Tuesday's, 8-10:15am 1 E Benton St,, Aurora, downstairs. Parking in back or on street. $12/class, walk-in, all levels. Email me first to see if we are having class that week. Reiki Sessions, Reiki Classes and Angel Card Readings are available as you need. YOGA FIELD TRIPS/WORKSHOP!!! *All right, who wants to plan the next outing? Is it you??! FEATURED HEALING STONE: Ruby by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire Ruby, the birthstone for July, is a fiery stone and, therefore, appropriate for a fiery, hot month! An ancient legend in Burma held that if inserted into one’s flesh, that person would be invulnerable! In Europe during the Middle Ages, it was believed to bring good health, resolve disagreements and remove negative thoughts. The Emperor Kublai Khan was reported to have offered an entire city in exchange for a sizeable ruby. This beautiful stone of nobility has been revered in many cultures. It has been a talisman of passion, protection and prosperity. It was worn as an amulet to ward off plague and pestilence and to warn the wearer of impending danger. Ruby is a stone of courage that alleviates doubt and assists the wearer in dealing with anxiety. Ruby carries the frequency of the Root Chakra stimulating the flow of chi throughout the body. It stimulates the sensual pleasures of life, stirring the blood and stimulating the heart, thus encouraging one to enjoy being in the physical world. It has always been associated with love and was considered to be the perfect wedding stone in antiquity. Ruby is a traditional prosperity stone that assists one in meeting needs on all levels and is particularly good at attracting wealth. As a stimulant to sexual energy, it can aid in overcoming dysfunction and infertility. It is excellent for grounding and can assist in overcoming stress and energetic overload. This beautiful stone may even awaken one’s passion for life and for new experiences and creations. Certainly something to consider in the fiery, hot days of July. FEATURED QUOTE: “There is no perfection, only beautiful versions of brokenness.” ― Shannon L. Alder The word "ego" has some interesting connotations, mostly negative, but which are correct? When you hear the word ego, does it reference someone who is selfish and vain or does it paint a picture of someone strong and assured? In the world of psychology, the ego forms our self-identity and our third chakra self-esteem. The ego experiences the external world and, then, reacts to it in some manner. And, it is our ego that helps us create age-appropriate survival skills. So does the ego step in as a source of protection? Is it a false sense of protection? What about on the yoga mat where we talk a lot about letting go of the ego? Have you ever been in a yoga class where you felt you had to keep up with everyone else (Ego) and attempted to do so (Ego) even though you knew you should not? While we cannot say the ego is protecting us physically, is the ego trying to protect us emotionally from feelings of inferiority? I know I am asking a lot of questions, but I want you to think this through! The ego has its time and place. Those age-appropriate survival skills may be deemed a necessity as a child. But, those skills have to evolve and advance as we age. We cannot expect a skill at six to work for us at age twenty. In our yoga practice, the ego must change (and diminish) as we evolve on the mat. But it will not do it on its own. Our mind has to use our yoga tools to find our inner strength and stay grounded in our roots. We need to find our voice to silence the ego, because we have grown to understand we no longer need it. Our self esteem and confidence starts to come from a place inside, not from the voice in our head. Our heart center glows because we lit our own wick: not because we hoped keeping up with everyone else would encourage them to reach over to light it for us. I don't think that is even possible. I like the following anonymous quote, and it's a good question to ask yourself when you are unsure of your motives...“Is that you or your ego?” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Yoga Class Schedule *Gentle/Restorative classes every Wednesday evening from 6-7:15pm. Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) All Levels, Walk-ins, $15 *Gentle/Restorative classes every Sunday from 10-11:15am. Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) All Levels, Walk-ins, $15 *Inspired Vinyasa (Level 1), most Tuesday's TIME CHANGE now 9-10:15am, 1 E Benton St,, Aurora, downstairs. Parking in back or on street. $12/class, walk-in, all levels. Email me first to see if we are having class that week. Reiki Sessions, Reiki Classes and Angel Card Readings are available as you need. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- YOGA FIELD TRIPS/WORKSHOP!!! *Kirtan, Sean Johnson & the Wild Lotus Band Tuesday, June 18, 7:30-10:30pm. The Garaj Mahal, 270 Ozier Dr, Batavia Please sign up individually. Pay following this link- Hurry space is limited! Let me know if you are going so we can try to meet up for food beforehand! https://www.paypal.com/webapps/shoppingcart?flowlogging_id=175b03e944c96&mfid=1556546555669_175b03e944c96#/checkout/openButton ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED HEALING STONE: ALEXANDRITE by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire Alexandrite, the June birthstone, was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in 1830 on the birthday of Czar Alexander II and was named for him. It is a magical stone that changes color from light red or red-purple in artificial light to green or blue-green in daylight. Some refer to it as emerald by day and ruby by night. Incidentally, the red and green colors of Alexandrite were also the colors of the Russian Imperial Guard! It is one of the world’s rarest gemstones with the largest one, weighing sixty carats, located in the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. It is also one of the hardest stones second only to the diamond. Alexandrite was believed to be a stone of good fortune and, as such, became very popular in the salons of Russia and France. However, it was Tiffany’s that popularized the stone in America and purchased so many as to have a monopoly for a long time. It is said to carry a vibration of joy, high wisdom and heart energy. It helps one to move through grief or self-pity and is excellent in helping to overcome procrastination due to fear. It opens the third eye to assist on in understanding the wisdom that is hidden in difficult experiences. It is a stone of hope to be utilized in even the darkest times. Alexandrite opens the crown through the heart chakras and stimulates the brain, pineal and pituitary glands. Although its properties are primarily spiritual, it can help one to relax thereby supporting physical healing. It is a good stone to use for those who are preparing for surgery or any other invasive procedure, helping them to relax prior to undergoing those. With its duality of coloring, it is the perfect stone for June and the astrological sign of Gemini! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED QUOTE: “Ego is to the true self what a flashlight is to a spotlight.” John Bradshaw
We are simply talking about breaking one habit for the benefit of all living creatures, and I know we can do it. Secondly, you can copy and paste from here or use your own words to tell Facebook and Twitter what you are doing. Spread the message as you would shanti or loving kindness. If you want to help this student or maybe know someone who knows someone lol, reach out to me so I can connect you. In the meantime, this gave me an idea of a section to add to this newsletter. I'm calling it, "What you want? Baby, I Got It" (with thanks to Aretha, of course!) Each month, anyone can reach out to me to add what they would like to post there. We all have expertise in something and together, we are a force! Your posts could be about project or in reference to charity work; advise or...whatever! I'll start it off this month! START SENDING these ideas!!! Include your first name and phone number or email so people can reach out to help:) April's Karma Yoga List: Hold the door open for the person behind you. Introduce yourself to someone new. Donate clothes to someone in need. Listen without trying to fix everything. Donate blood. Inspire others. Let someone with only a few items cut you in line at the grocery store. Donated Jewel Monopoly tickets to person in line behind. Left extra money in parking meter. Recycle. Replace what you’ve used. Work with a charity. Spend a few clicks of your time at Free Rice. Make a difference in the life of a child. Become a mentor or tutor to someone in need. Come to the rescue to someone sick. Be a courteous driver. Listen to someone’s pain and help them find a path through it. Hug a friend. Think twice before you throw something away. “Reduce, reuse, and recycle.” Compliment someone who deserves it. Cover someone's rent. Take someone to hospital. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "What you want? Baby, I Got It!" This section is for everyone to post things they collect for others or help with ideas/implementation. Karma Yoga section, if you will:) Let me know what you want to add. Box of Balloons- This is a non-profit that creates birthday party's for kids who cannot afford one or who may be living in shelters. They send out an email when a party request comes in and people can sign up for whatever they want to: buying the gift, making party bags, supplying decorations or games, etc. You can find them on FB or I will willingly take any party bag supplies to use... candy, snacks, small toys, books, etc! Sandra, sandracoyner@yahoo.com 4 Greyhound Racers- This is the rescue we got our greyhounds from and they are always in need of donations and fosters! The dogs are always housed with fosters first and, since tracks are closing, the need is greater than ever. Especially for homes without cats (though many dogs are cat friendly). They will be at the Morton Arboretum May 4 for Tails on Trails or I can answer any questions. Sandra, sandracoyner@yahoo.com 3:11 project: This is a non-profit that compassionately spreads goodness. They may do Easter basket collections or kids pajama drives. They collect gifts at Christmas for kids and many other things. If you follow them on FB, you will see what they are in need of and they have many drop-off points in the area. Sandra, sandracoyner@yahoo.com -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Yoga Class Schedule *Gentle/Restorative classes every Wednesday evening from 6-7:15pm. Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) All Levels, Walk-ins, $15 *Gentle/Restorative classes every Sunday from 10-11:15am. Healing Arts Metaphysical, 4 E Wilson Street, Batavia (parking lot in back) All Levels, Walk-ins, $15 *No class on Mother's Day:) *Inspired Vinyasa (Level 1), most Tuesday's TIME CHANGE now 9-10:15am, 1 E Benton St,, Aurora, downstairs. Parking in back or on street. $12/class, walk-in, all levels. Email me first to see if we are having class that week. Reiki Sessions, Reiki Classes and Angel Card Readings are available as you need. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- YOGA FIELD TRIPS/WORKSHOP!!! Trivia Night was fun though we forgot to use our yoga rule of listening to our intuition! Boy, did we creatively talk ourselves out of some correct answers!!! *The Ahhh of Adjustments Workshop Friday, May 17. 7-8:30pm. $30/person. Hands on adjustments in each pose! Reiki and oils in svasana. I will be teaching this at Healing Arts Metaphysical in Batavia. 16 spaces. Pre-register through Healing Arts (630) 937-4094 *Kirtan, Sean Johnson & the Wild Lotus Band Tuesday, June 18, 7:30-10:30pm. The Garaj Mahal, 270 Ozier Dr, Batavia Please sign up individually. Pay following this link- Hurry space is limited! Let me know if you are going so we can try to meet up for food beforehand! https://www.paypal.com/webapps/shoppingcart?flowlogging_id=175b03e944c96&mfid=1556546555669_175b03e944c96#/checkout/openButton ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED HEALING STONE: Emerald by Maryann Sanfilipp, Crystal Writer Extraordinaire Emerald, the beautiful green birthstone of May, is so appropriate for this month when Mother Nature really picks up her game. After the long months of winter and the long-awaited advent of nice weather, it is wonderful to look outside and see, as my friend Ric observes, “more green than brown!” Records indicate that emeralds were sold in markets in Babylon as early as 4000 B.C. In ancient Rome, emeralds were associated with the Goddess Venus and viewed as a symbol of fertility and unconditional love. Aristotle loved emeralds and wrote that owning an emerald increases ones importance and wealth. Ancient Egyptians believed it stood for fertility and rebirth. It was a favorite gem of Cleopatra who procured her emeralds from a mine in Upper Egypt. Arthurian legend describes the Holy Grail as being fashioned from an emerald. Emerald, the stone of the heart chakra, brings a freshness and vitality to the emotional and physical heart. It helps the wearer to view all events with compassion and acceptance. Emerald will increase the energy levels in your body and enhance the energy flow between the lower and upper chakras. It will also help you manifest a peaceful and loving existence. In addition, it is a stone of great vision and intuition. Associated with the eyes and sight, it was believed to help the wearer to foretell the future. As a stone of wisdom, it enhances memory and increases mental clarity. Emerald has also been used to stimulate wealth and abundance. The wealth aspect represents financial standing and material wealth. The abundance aspect helps one to trust that all will be provided and that there can be no lack. Therefore, it is powerful for shifting from a scarcity consciousness to a prosperity consciousness. It is a healing stone both on the physical and emotional levels. It can assist the physical heart in recovering from imbalances or diseases. On an emotional level, it assists in developing a caring, compassionate nature and overcoming fears of scarcity or abandonment. So, it appears that spring has finally sprung! If you cannot add emerald to your collection, at least get outside and enjoy the vibrant green of May! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEATURED QUOTE: “The world needs dreamers and the world needs doers. But above all, the world needs dreamers who do.” --Sarah Ban Breathnach |
Archives
March 2024
|