Happy Holidays!

The holidays are upon us and it is easy to get caught up in the busy-ness, stress, consumerism, craziness and chaos. For me, it has been incredibly helpful to take a deep breath and come back to the true meaning of the season. While taking this deep healing cleansing breath, I set my intention to celebrate Spirit and remember my true nature, and the nature of those around me. We are after all Spiritual beings having this human experience! In addition to these breaths, I consciously relax and invite Spirit in for the highest possible healing purpose in all that I am doing. The miracles and synchronicity that has shown up has been astonishing.

Overwhelment and frustration for many is high, so remembering and implementing this simple practice can invite and attract wonderful support. Intention is a powerful tool that many do not use to their greatest advantage. So, the next time you feel stressed or anxious, simply take a healing cleansing breath and set the intention you would like to invite. This can be done in less than a minute and can completely change the course and experience of your day.

We have more power than we think, but using our own willpower and life force to push can not only be unpleasant but even dangerous! Line up with “real power,” and co-create with the Universal Source of energy. When we do this, life can be more like riding a wave rather than swimming upstream. It is much less exhausting and so much more fun!

Happy Holy-Days to you, may you be filled with the magic, joy and true meaning of the season! And remember you are a walking, living breathing miracle! Blessings of immense love, compassion and miracles.

EGO or IGO?

Zen teaches us that pain is the universal great awakener - I know for me this has been true. The pain and disillusionment of life has brought me to my knees, and starkly revealed that I have much less power (and wisdom) than I think. Pain is frequently the catalyst that brings us to the place of earnest prayer. During these interesting and difficult times, I see people’s hearts and minds cracking open. Many are starting to have authentic conversations with God - which I doubt would have happened if life was going along smoothly.

So what is pain supposed to be waking us up too? The fact that we are no different, better, or worse than anyone else. Pain insists that we release our white knuckled grip on life, our attachments, and the youthful notion that we are all powerful and in control. I love the acronym for EGO: Edging God Out. From ego, it is easy to live life from the position of seperateness, superiority and self importance. Rather than living from EGO, I now live from IGO. I translate this to mean: Inviting God Only…OR I Go with God. You have probably heard the saying: the same energy that can turn embryos into babies and turn the planets around the sun, can take care of your life – if you let it. So when we invite God in, we are aligning with the Creative Intelligence that does such an amazing job in nature: with the animals, the seasons, the stars and beyond.

So, it seems to me that many, many people are inviting God in right now and lining up with Source. Can you feel the shift? Such intense energy: cracking opening and awakening. It feels we have been stuck in the middle of the hour glass for a long time, and yes it has been painful, but it has also been a blessing. It has helped us prioritize, grow up, set strong intentions and go deeper in our spiritual connection. It is when the roots grow really deep that we can withstand the hurricanes, the tornados and category 5 storms.

So how are you feeling? Are you living in EGO or IGO? Are you optimistic and feeling relief? Or are you still pinched and pained? Write to me at yes2miracles@aol.com and share your experiences, thoughts, questions and ideas. I love hearing from you!

Gratitude

With Thanksgiving almost upon us, ‘tis the “official season” of gratitude, however, gratitude is something that will never go out of style. To quote Johannes s Gaertner a well-known professor of art history, poet and theologian: “To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live gratitude is to touch Heaven.”

More than simply etiquette, good manners or a positive habit, gratitude is literally the most powerful energy of the Universe. My friend Stacey Robyn, author, creator and founder of gogratitude.org has written: “Imagine being given a master key, yours for all eternity to open all door of possibility - rejoice for it is so. Gratitude is the Master Key opening passage for opportunity, abundance and celebration.”

Cultivating an attitude of sincere gratitude for the blessings of your life, creates a magnetic force which draws to you even more to be grateful for. It can also shift and soften discomfort and anxiety when things are not going so well. Like the steering wheel of a car, consciously choosing to focus on gratitude can redirect the circumstances and the direction of your life. When I have been challenged, frustrated or annoyed I will plug in my mantra “thank you for this moment,” it consistently changes my attitude and vibration. This practice has supported me while impatiently waiting in a line or traffic, when I have dropped a box of straight pins on the floor or even when I have been in involved in an accident.

Often I will start my day with a list of gratitude, Abraham refers to this practice and the “Rampage of Appreciation.” Consider all things that you are grateful for - if you are honest and thorough you may find yourself occupied for a very long time! This is a powerful practice that raises ones vibration and point of attraction every time.

If you are ready to cultivate a deeper more conscious relationship with the powerful pratice of gratitude and radically change your life, you can sign up for Stacey’s 42 days of gratitude on her website www.gogratitude.org. She has prepared a series of 42short messages that you will receive one day at a time. The messages are uplifting, easy to digest, and appeal to both the left and right side of the brain. It is an amazing gift that you can give yourself and it is free! What a fantastic way to begin the season and an incredible way to step into the New Year! I have done it several times, it is always a grand adventure and cannot recommend it highly enough.

Let me know if you embark on the "gratitude adventure" and share your stories, I would love to hear from you! Abundant blessings of grace, ease, joy and gratitude!

Change

Doesn’t feel like there is change in the air? It’s more than just summer surrendering to fall and more than simply one season fading into the next. It seems we are shifting into a completely different way of being and venturing into unchartered territory. I know for many of my friends and clients, there has been a sense of being disoriented, distressed and overwhelmed. Admittedly I have had plenty of those moments, however, I predominately feel a sense of excitement, optimism and anticipation.

It seems we are all being asked to step up our game and blind spots are clearly being revealed. I know my boundaries have been tested and my courage challenged, but I feel there are reasons for all of it. Sacred text advises us to “know thyself.” I believe the opportunity to cultivate self-knowledge and personal power is increased exponentially through challenge and change. The people who want to hold tightly to their victim stance are suffering more than ever, but if we are willing to let go of our story, sit with our challenging emotions, look within and go deeper, there is a wealth of wisdom available to each and everyone of us.

While dealing with confusing or challenging situations or emotions, I will sit still for a bit, quiet my mind and ask myself “what is my soul trying to learn” and “what is the highest good for all concerned,” the wisdom is always forthcoming. This inner counsel provides solace, advise, direction and guidance. It takes discipline to sit in silence, especially when pain or confusion is present - and the more we need it the more we seem to resist it. However, this simple practice can make change so much less confusing and painful!

I believe we are more divine than human and this present time is supporting us in knowing and embodying this truth. Taking the time to quite our mind and go within is a powerful way to reduce the chaos, reestablish our alignment to Source, and find our center. It is also a profoundly helpful practice as we continue to navigate through change and expand in our consciousness and awareness.

When we decide to stay in the center of our hearts it not only lights the way more clearly for ourselves, it lights the way for all of those around us. Be still, sit in the center of your heart and align with the light and wisdom within. These are indeed powerful and exciting times and I am happy to be here now - how about you? Let me know your thoughts and feelings, I would love to hear from you!

Balance

This week I am going to discuss the balancing act of being divine and being human. Most of us have heard the saying “we are spiritual beings having a human experience.” What does that mean? To me it means we are much more than we think we are. The human aspect is a very small, yet very important part of who we are. It is helpful when we are in great pain or emotion, (anger, grief, sadness) to remember there is an aspect of ourselves that is peaceful, safe, content and happy. Often our discomfort can pull us out of our center and into the chaos of life. This is natural, but it can be helpful to remember, that we are much more than our small selves, our stories and our pain.

I believe as humans we are here to experience and explore. Our greatest gifts (and challenges) are free will and choice. This can be fun and exciting; it can also be painful and confusing. What I have found to be helpful in those painful and confusing moments, is to remind myself that life can be like WATCHING a movie, not BEING the movie. Sure that is a choice, but when life is challenging, it can help to have a more removed perspective and some space between oneself and their story.

Challenging relationships are one of the richest areas for both confusion and growth. So often people want to hold on to their stories of being a victim, being wronged or taken advantage of that they never see the situation as it was meant to be…an opportunity for growth, healing and learning. I once had a student I found very challenging. I thought if she would go away it would make things better and easier. What I did not see for some time was she my teacher. I had set an intention to get stronger, so here came an individual to help me claim that intention. When she showed up, I felt confounded and confused by her deeply entrenched victim story. All the while, I perceived myself as a victim of her energy! When I finally extracted myself from the movie, backed up, got into the seat at the theater and asked myself; what is my soul trying to learn? The answer was strength, courage, speaking up and clear boundaries.

The divine part of me wanted to embrace this student, the human part, not so much. So I honored my spirutal aspect (I love you and honor your journey) and I honored my human aspect (this relationship does not feel good). So I released her with love, respect and a couple of recommendations to counselors who may be better able to support her. The lesson was big, uncomfortable yet profoundly liberating once I got it. Next time I will know more, and move through future challenging situations, with more grace, clarity and ease.

We have a choice to view everything on our human journey with a spiritual context. This is not only helpful but immensely liberating. Do you have a story to share? A question to ask? Comment me or email me directly at yes2miracles@aol.com.

Manifesting Love 3 1

Celebrate Yourself!

I have heard it said, the most wonderful gift you can offer the world is to be authentically yourself. Most of us grew up hearing we need to behave in a particular way to get approval, we need to get good grades, we need to dress a certain way, be cool and do certain things to impress our friends and peers. So we learn to contort and conform in order to be loved and accepted.

It is easy to lose our authentic shape - it is easy to forget who we truly are. For many years I struggled with chronic fatigue. As I participated in a Masters program at the University of Santa Monica, entitled “Health, Consciousness and Healing” I got to the core emotional root of this debilitating health challenge. What I found was I wanted people to like me. I made myself smaller and smaller in order not to offend anyone. There is an analogy that one third of the world is going to love you, a third will be indifferent, and a third will hate you. I had a revelation! I needed to find my authentic shape and be who I really am so the right people will love me and the right people will not love me - so I decided to celebrate myself!

I started ask myself questions like: What do I really like? What makes me happy? What brings me joy? Well, I love high heels, I love the color purple, I love painting and creating and I love sparkly and blingy things. Shortly thereafter, my wardrobe changed, my makeup changed, and my attitude changed. I started feeling happier and I was lot more amused with life. I was finding my authentic shape. Perhaps there are some people who don’t like me…but I am so busy being happy, I don’t even notice it!

A big part of finding our authentic shape is getting in touch with our inner child. Often when we consider what brought us joy as a child, it is what will bring us joy as an adult. As a child I liked drawing, picking flowers and swinging, but as an adult I simply did not have time for that “silly stuff.” However, when we make time for the silly stuff, the stuff that brings us joy, the quality of our lives change, our vibration increases, and we begin to attract amazing opportunities and wonderful people into our lives.

Now rather than judge myself, my flaws, odd habits and idiosyncrasies I celebrate them. I see myself through the eyes of amusement, acceptance and love. As a spiritual seeker my goal is to learn to love myself no matter what. I no longer look to the opinion of others to determine my value. I look inward and upward to claim my value. I used to feel like a piece of a puzzle that was always trying to fit in. Now I am a piece of the puzzle who has found her shape and life fits in around me. Life works so much better from this perspective!

What can you do to celebrate yourself ? What brought you great joy as a child that you could take time to do for yourself now? Celebrate yourself! Do something to make yourself feel good! Then write to me and share your experiences, your learnings and your joy!

Do have a question? Is there a topic you would like me to address? Comment me or write to me at yes2miracles@aol.com I would love to hear from you!

The Inner Dragon

I had an appointment with a modern day shaman a couple of weeks ago. He told me I needed to access my Inner Dragon. My response was, huh? I told him I was aware of my Inner Unicorn but not my Inner Dragon. He told me I needed a dragon to protect my unicorn. Well, that at least made a little sense to me.

After I wrote my blog “YES” last week, I went to an art class where another participant took all my new paints and painted 9 paintings with them (I painted 2) by the end of the class, it was the end of my paints. I didn’t say anything. Alright…I think I get it, it can’t always be “yeses” and “unicorns,” I need my dragon.

The dragon can say NO, the dragon knows boundaries. Healthy boundaries are all about discernment, letting in the good and keeping out the bad. I have healthy boundaries in my relationship with my husband, who like me, is intuitive and sensitive. But now it seems I need to strengthen my boundaries in the rest of my reality. Boundaries are important in the physical world, and if we do not have access to them, we will inevitably be taken advantage of. It is important to be able to say: no; no thank you; or this does not honor me.

I talk about the need for boundaries in my book Manifesting Love From the Inside Out (www.manifestinglove.net) An essential step in successfully defining and expressing boundaries is the ability to communicate without blaming. We need to be able to take responsibility for our feelings, rather than saying “You make me angry” or “You make me sad,” a more responsible way of defining boundaries would be “I feel angry” or “I feel sad.” A formula for emotionally honest communication would look something like:

When you: take my paints
I feel: a bit confused
I would appreciate: if you would ask to borrow them, or perhaps using some other students supplies, so there will be some left for me.

So what I have learned is, if my dragon speaks up, I can stay in the loving energy of the unicorn. If the dragon does not speak up, I build up resentment, frustration and anger – then the unicorn, my sense of connection and my good feelings are gone!

Setting and maintaining boundaries protects our personal connection to Spirit and supports in making that connection a priority. Healthy boundaries create a powerful sense of freedom and safety within ourselves, in our relationships and in the world.

Are you clear in your boundaries? Do you have a healthy balance of the dragon and the unicorn? Write to me I would love to hear your stories and your thoughts!

YES! YES! YES

Mandala Monday – YES, YES, YES!!!

Joseph Campbell has a wonderful quote: “The big question is whether you are going to be able to say a hearty YES to your adventure.” I was inspired when I read this, so I wrote a letter to God saying YES: Yes to my adventure! Yes I want to go deeper! Yes I want to reach higher! Yes I want to expand! And YES I want to awaken!

Abraham Hicks has said only 2 people out of 10 are really committed to being here - and I get it! It is HARD to be human! The majority has one foot in and one foot out of the earthly experience…this is why most struggle so intensely physically, mentally, emotionally and financially. I admit, for many years I was one or those people, and life did not work very well. As I have taken greater responsibility, and started to say yes, the tides have turned in a positive and powerful direction. It takes courage, patience, and faith to commit to being human, to commit to ourselves, to healing and expansion. You have probably heard the saying: Better the devil you know than the angel you don’t. The majority of people are afraid of change, and control is the biggest addiction we have as human beings.

There is a big difference between “getting old” and “growing older.” We have a choice, we can either expand or contract as we age. Unfortunately elders are not revered in our society, but there are the rare individuals who do not allow society to dictate who they are, what they do, their value, or their zest for life. Dr. Maya Angelou is in her 80’s and one of the most revered and dynamic elders of our time. I believe this is because she keeps saying YES to life, YES to learning, and YES to love.

My sister came to visit. I asked her if she would come to the studio with me, she said YES (yippee!) I asked her if she would paint, she said NO :( I knew better than to try to convince her. I have learned the hard way; you cannot force someone to go where they do not want to go. When we got to the studio, I asked her which color called to her, she quickly picked out a metallic bronze. Then I asked her which mandala shape she liked and she chose a powerful 6 pointed star. One step followed the other and soon my little sister was deep in the creative process. She kept saying yes to each next little step...and before we knew it, she had birthed an extraordinary work of art (which is featured on this weeks blog!) I am so proud of her, and I encouraged her to be proud of herself. It takes great courage to step out of one’s comfort zone, to surrender control, and do something they have never done before.

My sister inspired me to keep saying YES, YES, YES! Yes to Spirit, Yes to me, yes to being of service and yes to each next little step (even if it is scary or uncomfortable). And I promise to take the time to acknowledge myself and express gratitude for being on this amazing, crazy, fun-filled, human adventure!

Are you saying yes? Are you at least thinking about it? Share your thoughts, feelings and comments - I would love to hear from you!

Blessings

This morning I was feeling somewhat irritable. I decided to go sit down, be still and meditate. At the end of my meditation, I considered all that I have to be grateful for and started to create a “Blessings List.”

In the past, if I did not feel good I would attempt to run away from myself. I would do busy work, and like a gerbil on a wheel, I would run, but not really be productive or get anywhere. I have found out the hard way – outrunning anxiety or pain doesn’t work. In fact, I received a few speeding tickets and experienced a couple of fender benders while in this frustrated state of being!

As I created my list of blessings I felt my heart start to expand. As my list got longer and longer, I took a deep breath and began to feel more peaceful. I know this practice helps to calm me down, it increases my vibration and points me in a more positive direction in my day and my life. I also know this practice makes me a less selfish, more patient, and a more attractive human being! Instead of quickly running out of Starbucks with a frown on my face, I am more present and happily holding the door open for the next customer.

I believe our pain comes from our disconnection from Source. I also believe Source is the energy of love, compassion and appreciation. When we direct our focus on appreciation and our blessings, this helps reestablish our connection and line up with Spirit once again. Life ALWAYS works better from this state!

I went on to have a very productive day, I attracted wonderful people, had great conversations and manifested incredible support with some of my projects. Would this have happened if I was disconnected and grouchy? Maybe, but I doubt it. So, the next time you are feeling anxious, irritable, or just plain blue. Take some time to create a Blessings List, as you get into the groove, you may find your list getting longer and longer. You may also find that you are starting to feel better and better. Then give me a shout and let me know how creating a Blessings List worked for you!

Courage

This week I am addressing the subject of manifestation and courage. We all want to be able to create prosperity and manifest the things we want in the world. A very important ingredient in the “manifestation recipe” is the quality of courage. When we do the inner work to release unconscious constrictions (like I mentioned in last weeks blog), opportunities can then present we will need to take action steps on. This action can take us out of our comfort zone and into unchartered territory, which can be daunting, uncomfortable and downright scary!

Several people who are reading my book and doing the exercises, feel they are ready to manifest a partner. I often suggest joining a dating service or signing up on E-Harmony, not necessarily because it is where I think they are going to meet their future husband or wife, but to let the Universe know that they are serious and willing to take action on their own behalf. It can be scary, but very important in the process of grounding our intentions and manifesting our desires.

As some of you may know I have been preparing to get my book out in the world. For my birthday a very good friend has done the ground work to get me into several book stores for signings…she even has the contract ready for me! My response to this heartfelt and generous gift was silence, blanching, stomach flipping nausea and a vacant wide eyed stare - probably not the response she was hoping for. It is not that I was not grateful….I was just scared! I thought to myself: “Be careful what you ask for!”

Courage is not the absence of fear, but moving forward in spite of fear. Eleanor Roosevelt has a wonderful quote: “You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do.” So tomorrow I am going to look fear in the face, call my friend, coordinate our calendars and schedule some signing dates. My intention is to consistently take small steps in the direction of my dreams and support others in doing the same. And hopefully I will see you walking next to me on the path of manifestation, authentic power and our soul’s true purpose!

Prosperity

Today is a rather lengthy blog, because I am addressing the subject of “Prosperity.” It is a big subject and something many people currently struggle with. With so much in the media about the state of our economy, it is easy to buy in to the mass consciousness of fear, lack and scarcity. However, nature and spiritual teachings reveal the truth about abundance. When we observe nature we have the opportunity to witness creativity, support, love and breathtaking beauty.

As I have mentioned in previous blogs, the most important question we can ask ourselves; is the Universe a safe and loving place or not? If it is, we can rest assured that we are safe, supported and that we are SUPPOSED to have all of our needs met. However, as human beings, we have free will and the choice to direct our attention toward topics of main stream media, competition, scarcity and “not enoughness” or towards bigger Truths - the loving nature of Spirit and the abundance of the Universe. When we do this, we can relax and release our fear, knowing that we truly deserve all the gifts this world has to offer.

Prosperity is ALWAYS a state of mind before it is a state of being. The law of Prosperity dictates we must FEEL rich in order to attract riches. We break the law of prosperity and Universal support through ignorance and fear. I frequently hear people affirm their scarcity when they say “I can’t afford it,” or “I’m so broke,” or “I would love to do this or that but I don’t have the money.” When these types thoughts bounce around in our minds or are uttered aloud, the Universe conspires to support them.

As spiritual beings having a human experience, we are immensely powerful, and we consistently manifest what we believe we deserve. If we know we want to manifest more money and the Universe is prosperous, what is the problem? If it is not a conscious issue of unworthiness, it is material residing in our unconscious mind; this is the pinch in the hour glass and the location of our guilt, deep seated unworthiness, shame or diminished value. I believe we all have the capacity to manifest what I call our “Divine Prosperity” Abraham hick refers to this as our “Vibrational Escrow.” Everything we want and need is there waiting for us, we just need to line up energetically to receive it. As a hypnotherapist, one technique I use to support clients in manifesting prosperity is to release unconscious blocks. While in a light meditative state, I invite my client’s unconscious mind to reveal any block to their prosperity as a symbol. Then we dialogue with the symbol to discover its intention, (which despite any first impression is always positive), then we thank it , bless it and release it. Then I have my client relax into the feeling state of receiving, joy and prosperity. Miracles occur after unconscious blocks are dissolved: raises; unexpected windfalls, opportunities; synchronicity, and incredible support.

So if you are ready for more prosperity in your life, these are a few suggestions addressing the three states of consciousness:

1. The Conscious State: Say the words and think the thoughts that support you in attracting what you want. Create “Positive, Prosperity Affirmations.” One example of a Prosperity Affirmation is: “I am a magnet for magic, miracles and money!” Another powerful practice is gratitude. Be thankful for all the prosperity currently in your life and all that is on its way to you now. Gratitude is one of the most powerful forces in the Universe, line up with it and use it to your advantage! Be grateful and you will attract even more to be grateful for.

2. The Subconscious State: Go into a light state of meditation and ask your unconscious mind to reveal any symbols, blocks or barriers to your prosperity, then dialogue with them. Why are they there? What are their intentions? Then bless and release them. Then get into the feeling state of receiving prosperity and living prosperously.

3. The Superconscious State: Meditate, relax and allow yourself to be lifted to the higher realms of love, support and peace. Get out of the mind (the place fear resides) and into your heart, the place of your higher nature, of co creation, connection, miracles and TRUE prosperity. Like a cork that raises to the surface of the ocean, meditation raises our vibration and our ability to attract good.

On a last note, I am available for personal sessions (by phone or in person) to support you in manifesting Divine Prosperity or Spiritual Counseling. You can email me personally at yes2miracles@aol.com. Please be in touch and share with me your positive, prosperity stories!

Surrender

Yes, it is that time again, Mercury is in retrograde. Many people are feeling stuck, frustrated and unable to move forward. What I suggest to clients, students and friends during times like these, is the act of surrender. What exactly does that mean? In my book “Manifesting Love from the Inside Out,” I describe surrender as being willing to relax, release one’s white knuckled grip on life and trust the organizational skills of the Universe. It is the opportunity to stop telling Spirit what we want, and instead listen to what Spirit wants from us.

Non-resistance is the key to the greatest power of the Universe. Buddha says our pain comes from attachment, when we surrender we do not have to necessarily give up our preference, but we consciously relinquish control, we soften and surrender our resistance. The same energy that can move the planets around the sun and turn embryos into babies, can take care of our lives - if we allow it. But first, we have to open our minds to it, trust it and invite it in.

We are a predominantly “doing” based society. What do we do? How do we make more money? How do we fix it? How do we make it happen? There are times when we can bennifit greatly from surrendering, inviting Spirit in and relaxing. When we allow ourselves to simply BE, what we need to DO can then show up gracefully and easily without the pain and frustration of pushing, controlling and efforting. The process of relaxing and surrendering, literally lines us up with the energy of the Universe.

So during this Mercury retrograde, rather than asking the question: What do I need to do? Ask instead: What do I need to surrender? What do I need to release? Then be open to the wisdom that comes forward…then write me and share your wisdom with me!

Labor Day

Labor Day is often associated with the “Last Hoorah” of the summer, an extended weekend of barbeques, weekend travels and picnics. However, the true meaning of Labor Day was established 1882 and is about celebrating laborers around the nation. I categorize labor in one of three arenas: jobs, careers or life’s purpose. A job is a means to an end, making money to pay the bills. A career is a trade that one is proud of and feeds them on a deeper lever. A life’s purpose is the clear alignment with a soul’s mission.

Undoubtedly these are challenging economic times and many have been laid off from their careers, and perhaps “downgrading” to a job they feel is beneath them. Sometimes in life we feel like we are taking one step forward and two steps back. It can be SO POWERFUL to set the intention to do ALL that we do with the attitude of love and gratitude, knowing that each experience can bring us closer the ultimate destination of our life’s purpose.

I have always enjoyed working and been told repeatedly I have a great work ethic. I have waited tables and served cocktails, for me these were jobs. I have been a hairdresser and actress…these were my careers. Now as a Holistic Life Counselor, author, artist and sacred art facilitator I am living my life’s purpose. I feel very blessed to have found my soul’s purpose, but have enjoyed and been grateful for all of my jobs and careers. Each experience was a stepping stone supporting me in arriving at my current destination. When I worked as cocktail waitress, someone said to me: “What are you doing here? You are too good for this.” My response was, “This is what I do, not who I am and I am honored to be serving you.” To work is the opportunity to be of service to others. Mother Teresa has said: "We can do no great things; only small things with great love." And whether serving cocktails, doing someone’s hair or teaching them about the Mandala I have done it with the intention of love.

So no matter what your trade, or even if you are unemployed at this time, to live with the attitude of service, appreciation and loving, opens doors and make you a magnet for opportunity. So this Labor Day, let your attitude be of gratitude: for your work, your life and your lessons. To further energize your capacity to attract good, remember to extend this energy of gratitude to those around you who labor to bring you all of the comforts and blessings of your world. Happy Labor Day and I hope to hear from you!

Go with the Flow

Einstein once said: "I think the most important question facing humanity is, 'Is the universe a friendly place'. This is the first and most basic question all people must answer for themselves. If we believe the Universe is safe, we can relax and enjoy the experience of being human, if not, struggle, resistance and pain will be inevitable. For many years I thought the world was unfair and scary. When I really contemplated Einstein’s question, I decided to be like a spiritual scientist, I opened my mind to the possibility of trusting and relaxing for a while. If things did not work out, I figured I could always go back to my old way of being. That was about 10 years ago, and I am happy to report, I never went back.

This does not mean life is always easy - it isn’t. But I do not put up as much of a fight when challenges come my way. I also do not resist my discomfort, I surrender, I allow (sometimes even consciously go into the resistance) and soon I find my out of it.

The other day as I was leaving my house, I spun out on my stiletto and found myself on the floor. As I lay there, angry at first, then curious as to why this had happened, I allowed myself to just sit there, tail bone bruised, elbow bleeding and my head throbbing. I consciously relaxed, surrendered and found my center. Because I did not judge myself or the incident, I believe I moved through the situation more quickly and with more ease. Even before I reestablished myself in an upright position, I found some things to be grateful for: “Thank God this did not happen in public!”

Choosing to trust the process of life has brought miracles and support like I could never have imagined. And just like a flowing river can have rocks and logs in it, life can still be bumpy and we can still encounter the occasional bruise. But it is such a relief to be curious, amused and know life is on our side rather than feel angry, judgmental, afraid and unsafe.

Do you feel loved and supported by life? Are you going with the flow? Comment me and share your thoughts!

Releasing Guilt

Hello my Beautiful Friends. I am back in the serene environment of Idaho after a month in LA and two intensive healing retreats. People ask what I learned on my adventures and there was SO MUCH, but I believe the greatest value I received was the awareness, release and liberation from a significant amount of guilt I have been carrying.

I have heard it said guilt is anger turned inward. In psychoanalysis, the concept of unconscious guilt is often used to explain certain kinds of self punitive behavior. Guilt can keep us playing small, it can also prevent us from creating prosperity or manifesting love. It can be like a dam in a river or the pinch in the flow of our lives. We always attract what we believe we deserve, and if we have hidden guilt or shame in the recesses of our psyche, it will be impossible to create the life of our dreams.

In my blog last week, I address the issue of guilt. In one of the phrases of my poem “God’s Face” I say “guilt is love misunderstood.” For three years I have carried a heavy burden as a result of a friend’s choice to commit suicide. I thought my guilt was “proving” to him how much I loved him and keeping us connected - it was, but not in a positive way. When I became conscious of the hidden material in the shadows of my heart and mind, I could then look at it, listen to it, and try to understand it. For me, the guilt was like bowing down in apology - and beneath that, reverence and profound, breathtaking love.

I finally understood, my guilt was tangled up, confused love and not serving anyone - not my beautiful friend, not me, not my family, and not those I hope to serve in the future. To heal the guilt, I needed to forgive myself. I forgave myself for not being a good enough friend, for not knowing more than I knew, for making perceived mistakes, for the quality of my love not being enough and much more. As I forgave myself and released the shackles of shame, I started to feel lighter, more open and more “clean” inside. It also seemed I was making space for more love.

If you are carrying any guilt, I support you in going deeper. What needs to be forgiven? What is the misunderstanding? What do you need to release? Becoming aware of and then releasing this heavy emotion can help you to lighten up in every way. I support you in relaxing and letting go of what is no longer serving you and in turning up your wattage. The world needs our light right now and we really do deserve the life of our dreams. Tell me about your process and your thoughts. And as always abundant blessings of grace, ease, healing and profound love, Tammi

God's Face

Hello Friends! The clearing of the unconscious continues with unexpected experiences from crazy vivid dreams to the sudden spewing of poetry. Although I don’t consider myself a poet, I have, on occasion, turned to this form of creativity while purging pain or seeking clarity in times of confusion. This weeks blog includes my lastest musings about our journey as spiritual beings having a human experience. I would love to hear your thoughts. And as always, abundant blessings of grace, ease, prosperity and joy to you. Tammi.

God’s Face
By Tammi Baliszewski

Vampire, preditor, victim, whore,
Whoever is in me I have tried to ignore.

I am gently calling you out of the shadow of shame,
It’s time to complete the cycle of guilt, this gut wrenching game.

The parts I deemed unlovable, descended underground.
Ignored but not forgotten, deafeningly loud with no sound.

Carrying beliefs of my unworthiness, mistakes and the pain,
The heavy baggage of misunderstanding, has made me insane.

Mortified and wounded it’s time to look in my eyes,
Willing to fall to my knees, surrender, let go of these lies

I have donned the false mask of courage defiled,
As I look in the mirror, I see the innocence of the child,

I have orphaned myself, seeking the approval of others,
It’s time to love unconditionally, be my own good father and mother.

The deepest part of me knows I am no horrible thing,
Not the monster I have hidden, nor the angst, or the pain.

Surrendering to God, finally too exhausted to hide,
Falling on my sword, my heart is pierced open wide.

The ego, the shadow, the fall from grace,
The Divine design to obscure God’s face

Not evil or bad, just the opportunity to decide,
I now turn towards Spirit, His arms open wide.

We have to forget so we can remember, a game of hide and seek,
This human adventure is not for the faint of heart or the weak.

Relaxing, releasing, falling into faith,
I melt into love, forgiveness and grace.

I think I understand, guilt is love misunderstood.
No more judging myself, no more “should nots” or “shoulds”

I am shedding this dark cloak I have worn for so long,
Emerging from the shadows, vulnerable yet strong.

The pain of separation and feeling alone,
Is healed in this moment, I am finally home.

I understand it takes courage to see the face of the Divine-
Because first I must be willing to see the perfection of mine.

The Unconscious Mind

I just completed an intensive weekend workshop at the University of Santa Monica. It was a powerful weekend devoted to understanding accessing and healing our unconscious mind.

We all have a conscious, subconscious and Superconscious mind. Our conscious mind is the rational thinking part of ourselves and the one charge in our normal waking state. It is the place where free will and choice reside. The Superconscious mind is our Soul Self. Napoleon Hill called it the Infinite Intelligence. Scientists call it the Universal Mind. It is where we are one with our Creator.

The unconscious mind is the buffer in between the conscious and Superconscious mind. It is the place our dreams come from and the place we access when we are hynotized. In the negative, the unconscious mind can be the store house for deep seated guilt, shame, unworthiness and cause us great anguish. In the positive it is the place of profound inspired creativity. The more we release our guilt and shame the more access we have to our infinite creativity.

One very powerful and effective way of clearing out “negative” material in our unconscious mind is through prayer and meditation. Another non-directed way to experience healing is to go into a light meditative state, and flood the unconscious with violet light. Working consciously with our subconscious mind can support us in creating powerful and positive changes in our lives.

As a “Spiritual Scientist” I have committed to doing my “Purple Light Meditation” daily and look forward to witnessing the results in my life – I will keep you posted. If you decide to participate in the experiment, be sure to let me know the results in your life as well!

Happy Lughnasadh!

On Saturday somebody said to me “Happy Lughnasadh” ….my response was “Huh?” I did a little research and found that Lughnasadh is an Irish holiday that marks the beginning of the harvest season and the ripening of first fruits.

This holiday represents that is our work is complete and we have done everything we can - even if the fruits of our labor are not yet evident. It is the time to come together with friends and family in celebration and laughter. If you are anything like me, we right on track! When I have prayed and asked God “What do I do?” I get the intuitive impression that Spirit is responding with “Relax.” Relax? But what do I DO? Relax! I understand now, I have done all I can do for now, it is time to relax and celebrate.

I love Abraham Hicks and I have often heard them say, “Celebrate NOW! Success is immanent!” When we relax and feel good, we are a magnet for good things. Yes, we have to take our action steps, and we have to plant our seeds, but once that part of the process is complete, it is time relax, feel good, be happy and know that great things are on their way.

Have you been taking responsibility for yourself? Have you planted your seeds? Are you relaxing in faith? If so, HAPPY LUGHNASADH TO YOU! Relax, celebrate, be happy - and write to me about your journey, I would love to hear from you!

Self Love

A very interesting week at the Art 4 healing program! I put glitter paint on some of my abstract paintings…much to the chagrin of the teacher. As she was clearly (and loudly) expressing her displeasure about the bling…I felt my heart beating REALLY HARD in my chest, I was confused, wasn’t this course about personal self expression? Should I apologize? Defend myself? Explain myself? Crawl away and hide myself? Instead, I chose not to take it personally, to love my glitter - and to love me.

In the four agreements Author Don Miguel Ruiz tells us not to take anything personally. “Nothing others do is because of you, what others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinion and actions of others you won’t be the victim of needless suffering.”

As a recovered People Pleaser, this was something really new for me. In the past I would have withered up and died. But this time I did not let the opinion of another (an authority figure no less!) pull me out of my own self approval and self love. I think our biggest hurt and heartache comes from withdrawing our approval from ourselves. If we can learn to love ourselves no matter what, life is so much less painful and so much more fun!

I learned a lot of new techniques and obtained some great healing tools this week (and created some cool glittery paintings!) but the most important thing I learned is that I have come a loooong way on the journey to Self love! I am happy to report I really do like and approve of me….even if others do not! Write to me with your wins about Self-love, it would be great to hear from you!

Try a Little Kindness

Have you ever had the experience where life just flowed along effortlessly, when you felt supported and blessed? Alternatively have you ever felt really stuck, when nothing you do seems to work? I used to get very upset and confused when those “stuck times” occurred. I now look at it differently, I take it as information from the Universe that it is time to relax, go inward and take care of myself.

People often mention how blessed I seem to be and I would agree. However, it wasn’t always this way. When I was mean to myself, life was unkind. Now that I constantly check in with myself and ask the questions “what honors me now?” or “how can I be gentle with myself? “ Life has seemingly transformed in miraculous ways.

Last week I felt a bit stuck. I kept making calls and trying to make things happen, then, I remembered I was preparing to go into an intensive healing art program - the light went on! It was time to go into my cocoon and be quiet and kind to myself. I shifted gears and relaxed. Buddha has said: “There is no out there,” everything that happens is a reflection of our relationship with ourselves. So, if you want life to be nicer to you, start being nicer to yourself. Be kind, gentle and honor yourself, then wait for the miracles to happen!

Centering

My husband decided we needed to go on a family vacation this year, so we made plans to take our yacht to Catalina Island. The boys (ages 17 and 11) were very excited. We have a new jet ski, snorkel, fins and various other water toys. It sounds like a fun- filled vacation don’t you think? What we did not anticipate was the rocking and rolling of the sea! Once we arrived at Avalon Bay and got ourselves moored, the rocking really ensued. It wasn’t long before the family was various shades of green.

I descended below deck and as the boat weaved and bobbed, I felt disoriented and nauseas. I realized this could be a pretty painful week. Carl Jung once said “what we resist persists.” I knew it was futile to resist the ocean, so I consciously decided to find center, make peace with situation and make friends with the waves. Life improved immediately.

To center myself, I sink into the area of my solar plexus (right below the belly button) and become aware of the flow of my internal energy. When I sink into my center, I feel very peaceful, present, calm and connected. My husband and his kids needed Dramamine and lots of shore time, while I felt the sea was embracing me, loving me and rocking me to sleep. Once again my “journey to center” and the power of intention vastly improved my vacation - and my life! If you have stories about centering or the power of intention, please share them with me! Also please check out my website at www.journeytocenter.com.

Freedom

If I HAD to choose my favorite holiday, it would be the Fourth of July. For me July represents celebration and freedom - freedom to be alive, to enjoy living, to give full and complete expression to every capacity we possess. To quote Moshe Dayan: “Freedom is the oxygen of the soul.”

For the most part I live in a wonderful state of inner freedom. Even though I have always lived in this great nation, I have not always felt free. More than a simple statement about one’s physical location, it is a state of being. When I was unclear in regard to my boundaries or worth, life was scary, overwhelming and painful. Although I was technically “free”, I was too afraid and in too much pain to enjoy it! I have since tightened up my boundaries and have done the inner work necessary to experience true freedom. Now with my healthy boundaries in place, I feel safe, balanced, happy and whole.

I love doing Mandalas, you start with the creation of a clear boundary (the circle), then from that place infinite possibilities are available. In my book Manifesting Love From the Inside Out, I quote Chuck Connradt, a motivational speaker, in my chapter about boundaries: “Freedom is greatest with the boundaries are clearly defined.” Knowing my boundaries and residing in my center is what supports me in experiencing a more consistent state of peace and freedom. Are you free? Write to me and let’s talk about it!

The Creative Process

When we make the decision to open more fully to our creativity, to heal, or to evolve we can be assured that life will change. The journey can be challenging but saying “YES” to these adventures will eventually lead us to our joy, our passion, our purpose and peace.

This weekend I hosted a Sacred Art workshop. One of my regular students, who is typically upbeat and talkative, was very quiet. When I asked her what was going, she told me she had a headache. I offered to massage her head and neck. It soon became apparent that she was holding some painful emotions down. I told her whatever it was she was feeling was fine and to let it come up. Her eyes immediately welled up with tears. She said the image of her goddess she was painting was all covered up with “stuff” and you couldn’t see her. I asked her if SHE felt covered up and unseen. A torrential downpour of tears ensued. The creative process “uncorked” some deep seated issues from her long ago past.

We went to another room and I handed her a pillow. I told her to let her feelings out. I then picked up a pillow and I started screaming into it, she soon joined me. I supported her in exorcizing her suppressed anger, sadness and angst. When she was complete, I asked her how her headache was…she said it was gone.

Erich Fromm, an internationally renowned social psychologist, psychoanalyst, humanistic philosopher was once quoted as saying: “Creativity requires the courage to let go of certainties.” I know from experience this statement is absolutely true. Creating can be joyful and fulfilling, it can also be overwhelming, painful and confusing. However, if we are willing to keep walking through the process, not only can it relieve us of our physical ailments, it can cleanse our emotions, give clarity to our minds and ultimately sooth our souls.

Are you a “creator,” evolving, or on healing path? If so, write me and share your thoughts or experiences, I would love to hear from you!

Father's Day

Sunday was Fathers day, and several people asked if I was doing anything special for my dad. The answer was no. Dad and I have not spoken in the last couple of years, in fact we have never had much of a relationship at all. It used to make me very sad, and I know the lack of a loving father as a child impacted and influenced me significantly as an adult. I had a multitude of unhealthy, painful relationships and was consistently attracted to men that ignored me or were unavailable. When this painful pattern became abundantly clear, I finally decided to take responsibility for my own healing work. I document this process and support readers in their own healing journey in my book Manifesting Love From the Inside Out.

I believe we become emotional and spiritual adults when we learn love ourselves the way we wanted our parents to love us. Most of us (or perhaps ALL of us) have been raised by imperfect people with their own flaws, trauma and wounds. Profound healing for me occurred when I realized my REAL Father was not my biological father, but God.

So for this Fathers day, I did not get a tie or a card for dad, but I did write my real Father a Thank you letter. Cultivating this relationship has changed my life in profound, positive and powerful ways. I often invite clients to write a letter to God, and allow Spirit to respond in return. They are always surprised by the sense of unconditional love and wisdom they receive. So, if you are ready for more love, support and wisdom in your life, give this simple exercise a try.

I invite you to share any thoughts, revelations with me at J2Center@gmail.com.

Magic!

I had a wonderful trip to Marina Del Rey! Now that life in Idaho has gotten really busy, I go to Los Angeles connect with my friends, relax and play. These qualities are so important to create peace and balance in our lives. While I was there I had “girls night” at my condo. We ordered room service, had some wine and watched Tinkerbelle. So, not only did we have quality girl time - we had some awesome inner child time!

In the story of Tinkerbelle we learn that each fairy is born with a special gift or talent: whether it’s making flowers grow, creating wind and rain, teaching baby birds to fly or giving fireflies their light. Tinker Bell does not believe her fairy talent as a “tinker” is as special or important, because tinkers don’t go to the mainland like the other fairies. But when Tink tries to be something other than who she is, she creates havoc and disaster! With encouragement from her friends, Tink learns that the key to solving her problems is found in her unique abilities … and discovers that when you stay true to yourself, magical things can happen.

Perhaps this movie was created for children, but it shares a beautiful message and a profound truth: We all have our own magic! There is no competition,only cooperation! Each of us is a unique and important piece of the whole puzzle and we all need each other. If we take responsibility for ourselves, cultivate our own gifts, and understand our innate value, life is filled with support, grace and beauty. My prayer is that you know your value and worth. Any thoughts or questions? Write me! Wishing you abundant blessings of magic, miracles and joy.

Tammi

Mandala: Healing with Color

I participated in a workshop this week entitled “Healing with Color.” It was a wonderful opportunity to express ones emotions through the creative process. When students or clients are struggling with anger, grief, confusion or other challenging emotions, I often suggest they do “Stream of Consciousness Writing” or get a tennis racket out and beat up a pillow. This modality is another opportunity to exorcize suppressed fear, anger, hope, desire—the rawest human frailties.

Byproducts of the creative experience are greater self-awareness, the confidence to process feelings and emotions, and the ability to articulate and share these feelings and emotions with others When people express themselves creatively, they can document their experience in a profound way, thus creating a healing environment for themselves.

It is my greatest intention, hope and joy to support and empower others on their creative journey and I look forward to adding this to my tool box of workshops in the very near future.

In the meantime, if anyone reading this is experiencing any intense feelings, go inside and ask “what color (or colors) and shape is this feeling?” If you feel compelled, give it expression with crayons, paint, pens, pencils, markers or anything else that calls to you. Allow the process to unfold organically, without censorship or judgment. You may find that you feel better and more “clear” afterwards. You may also have profound revelations. If you decide to explore this creative healing process, please write me and share your personal experience.

Mandala Monday

Well it is Mandala Monday - what does that mean? Every Monday I will be posting a new blog and a new original image of one of my Mandalas. Mandala is Sanskrit for “sacred circle” or “container of essence.” I have been creating them sine 2002. I stumbled upon them accidentally while completing a masters program in spiritual psychology. Everyday for a week, we would do a brief guided meditation, ask our hearts for a healing symbol, then create the image that had come forth. That experience changed my life!

Beautiful colors and patterns emerged in my minds eye and reproducing them provided me with a sense of peace that I had never known. It felt as if my soul was humming. My drawings soon evolved into paintings. I have since became a “Certified Mandala Facilitator” and worked with children, troubled teens, women in prison, the educational system and many individuals. The process never ceases to amaze me.

All of us have such beauty and wisdom within, however, most of us are not taught how to effectively access these gifts. The Mandala is a tool, map or guide to the center of our being and for me it has truly revealed the kingdom of heaven within.

So just now, if your would like, take a cleansing breath, consider an area in your life that you would like support or clarity around, then close your eyes and ask your heart to reveal the perfect healing symbol for you right now. This symbol can give you solace and healing on many levels. And, if you feel so compelled, create this symbol with pencils, crayons, markers paint or any other medium that calls to you. Then write me with any comments, questions or to share your experience I would love to hear from you!

About Tammi

My name is Tammi Baliszewski, welcome to my blog. I have a Ph. D in Holistic Life Counseling, am a hypnotherapist, artist, sacred art facilitator and a published author. Actually I am much more than that….I am a hairdresser and makeup artist, am a member of the Screen Actors Guild (I have been in several TV shows, commercials and a couple of films), I have been in Playboy, have been courted by the rich and famous and am now a wife and step-mother. I am also a teacher and a perpetual student. However, my resume and experiences are not who I am - just as what you do (think or feel) is not who you are.

The most powerful lesson I have learned thus far, is that we are much more than we know. None of us are simply our talents, education, abilities, income, jobs, careers, gender, social status, sexual preference, marital status, wounds, accomplishments, appearance or anything else we can identify by any worldly measure- we are aspects of the Infinite, we are our souls.

What does that mean exactly? That is what I will be addressing in this blog – life as a spiritual journey. Some spiritual teachings tell us that the purpose for our life is joy. When I first heard this, I did not understand or agree with it. Now I couldn’t agree more. I want to support you in also understanding life as a celebration, dialogue and connection with the Divine. This can be done in every arena of our lives: relationships, crisis, careers, health, finances and more. So stay tuned…this is going to be an adventure!

Let me know if you are blogging or tweeting about your journey. I'd love to connect with you!