August 2018 - Conscious Community Magazine by Conscious Community

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CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY D E D I C AT E D

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E L E V AT I N G

C O N S C I O U S N E S S

CLEARING ANXIETY

THOUGHTS ABOUT SACRED GEOMETRY

FROM YOUR FUTURE

BY ENDRE BALOGH

THE ALCOHOLIC SAINT IT’S ALL ABOUT PERCEPTION

GROWING YOUR INTERNAL GARDEN A GUIDE TO GOOD GUT HEALTH

AUGUST 2018

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YOGA

GETTING COMFORTABLE WITH BEING UNCOMFORTABLE

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THE LAST WEIGHT LOSS COURSE YOU’LL EVER DO How many diets have you tried in the course of your life? Have you grown frustrated with the results? Everything you could possibly want to know about diets, exercise, foods to eat or not eat, plus dieters’ aides of all kinds are widely available. So why are 40% of US adults over 20 still obese? There’s actually a simple, and yet complex answer. Emotions. So a highly intelligent and even self-disciplined person, in so many areas, can actually fail when it comes to losing weight. OK, so here’s the promise: this 4-day Center for Releasing retreat is your ticket to final and ultimate freedom from fat! Deadline for the Pre-Registration Price of $647 is October 31st. (On November 1st price will be $697.) For more information and to register visit: www.dianestilwell.global or call 312–951–6560

Diane Stilwell Course Leader

When & Where: November 15 - 18, 2018 The first day is from 2:00pm to 5:00pm. All other days are from 10:00am to 5:00pm at the Ritz Carlton, 160 E Pearson St Chicago, IL 60611

The Power of Manifesting Your Goals In just 5 days, using the Release Process: 1. You’ll not only learn to have everything you’ve truly ever wanted; you’ll learn the “how to” in having them ALWAYS. 2. You will become more centered. Everything will begin to come to you, instead of you chasing everything.

Deadline for the Pre-Registration Price of $697 is November 30, 2018. {On December 1 price will be $747.)

3. Your mind will become focused, and you’ll feel a new sense of clarity and vision.

For more information and to register visit: www.dianestilwell.global or call 312-951-6560

4. You may find that you’re becoming aware of your purpose, your reason for being.

When & Where: December 26 - 30, 2018

5. You’ll feel the abundance of a world wanting to “give to you”. 6. You’ll “know” that happiness and contentedness is who you really are

Diane Stilwell Course Leader

…You will begin to manifest right away. One by one, the goals of your dreams will be fulfilled as your true self is being revealed to you. A self that is richer, happier, lighter and freer.

Diane has been developing and refining her “repertoire” for realizing goals for the past 36 years. They are quick and easy, when using the Release Process. (Originally taught to her by Lester Levenson.)

The first day is from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, all other days are from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 160 E. Pearson Street Chicago, Illinois 60611 Note: You must have completed a Basic Releasing Course to attend. Call or email Diane’s assistant Fernanda, at skyranch180@gmail.com about completing this in time.

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Contents

AMERICA’S OLDEST SPIRITUAL AND METAPHYSICAL MAGAZINE

FEATURES 12 LET THERE BE LIGHT

Interview with Dr. Jacob Liberman

by Janae Jean and Spencer Schluter

16 CLEARING ANXIETY

FROM YOUR FUTURE

by Matthew B. James, MA, Ph.D.

25 GROWING YOUR

INTERNAL GARDEN A Guide to Good Gut Health

by Barbie Boules

26 THOUGHTS ABOUT

SACRED GEOMETRY

By an Artist Who Makes Them

by Endre Balogh

DEPARTMENTS 06 PUBLISHER’S LETTER Under The Seventh Star Kasia Szumal

08 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

August 2018

11 ASK ALECIA Community Q&A

August 2018

14 ALL ABOUT TOWN Mata Amritanandamayi’s Visit to Chicagoland by Theresa Puskar

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18 FROM THE HEART The Alcoholic Saint by Alan Cohen AUGUST 2018

AUGUST 2018 VOLUME 39, NO.12

™

(Formerly The Monthly Aspectarian)

28 JAPANESE STYLE REIKI

Aligning with Your True Path, Source, and Spirit

by Connie Mahealanikealoha Harris

30 COSMIC DAILY WEATHER In-Depth Astrology Perspectives

August 2018 by Tara Aal

37 HEARTH & HOME Hot Indian Nights

Chickpeas and Garlic

by Janae Jean

CONNECTIONS 20 THE PULSE CALENDAR Events, Happenings and Announcements of Interest

August 2018

34 LIGHTWORKERS CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY Resources for Better Living

PUBLISHER KATARZYNA (KASIA) SZUMAL EDITORS JANAE JEAN ALMEN SUSAN PLUTO JULIE ROBERTS MEDIA COORDINATORS JANAE JEAN ALMEN KAYLA HANCOCK SPENCER SCHLUTER ART DIRECTOR/WEBMASTER JODY LEVITAN ADVERTISING INQUIRIES BARBARA KNEELAND Barb@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 773.971.6615 SPENCER SCHLUTER Spencer@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 630.492.0831 EDITORIAL INQUIRIES KASIA SZUMAL Kasia@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 847.966.1110 JANAE JEAN ALMEN Janae@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 630.945.7356 ALL OTHER INQUIRIES info@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com

REVIEWS

ONLINE www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com

38 IN PRINT by Kayla Hancock www.facebook.com/ConsciousCommunityMagazine www.twitter.com/TweetCCMagazine www.instagram.com/consciouscommunitymagazine/ www.youtube.com/channel/UCla2b_NjCdjxQldeXCL1FjA

ON THE COVER Being in the Flow

CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY is published 12 times yearly by Conscious Community, LLC 47 W. Polk St., Suite 153 Chicago, IL 60605 847.966.1110 © 2017 Conscious Community, LLC. Formerly The Monthly Aspectarian. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher. Conscious Community does not necessarily agree with opinions of the writers, nor is it liable for advertiser claims or representations. We believe in the reader’s judgment regarding the quality of any information. All ads should be received by the 10th of the month preceding publication. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

UNDER THE SEVENTH STAR O

nce there was a tavern called “Lucky Star” with great food, affordable prices and employees who gave the best service they could offer. Unfortunately, the tavern was losing business; they were getting less and less customers. Times were really bad. One day, a monk came into the tavern and ordered something to eat and drink. The owner, who did not have much to do sat down next to the monk, and started complaining about his tavern’s situation. The monk told him, “You need to change the name of your tavern.” The owner laughed at him and told him that changing a name of the tavern will do nothing to improve his business. But, the monk insisted and told the owner to change the name to “Under The Seventh Star” and paint it on a banner with only six stars instead of seven. The owner laughed again and left the monk. The monk finished his meal and left the tavern. For the next few days, the owner thought over the monk’s suggestions and decided to change the name of his tavern to “Under The Seventh Star.” He hired a carpenter to hang a banner with six stars and the new name on it.

KATARZYNA (KASIA) SZUMAL PUBLISHER

Right after he hung a banner on the tavern, a person came in to tell the owner that there was an error on the banner— there are six stars instead of seven. However, when he stepped into the tavern and smelled the delicious aroma and saw the inviting atmosphere, he sat down and had a meal. As you can imagine, the tavern’s doors were opening and closing constantly. People were coming in to point out the mistake on the banner. But, as soon as they walked into the welcoming tavern full of pleasant smells and great service, they decided to stay and have a meal. After a while, the tavern became one of the most popular and prosperous taverns in the town. After many months, the monk came back for a meal. When the owner saw him, he kissed him, hugged him and sat him down at a table and served him dinner. The owner asked the monk, “How did you know that changing the name of the business would change my situation?” The monk replied, “I didn’t know if changing the name of the business would do anything for you, but I do know that people like to point out the mistakes of others.” For me, the biggest lesson and wisdom of this story is to remind us all to take our experiences, mistakes and failings and use them to create something good in your life. Life is like a puzzle, every piece is important to see the whole picture. This August issue is filled with content that will help you create your best life! In From the Heart this month, Alan Cohen reminds us that “where you made a faulty choice before, you now can make a better one.” Dr. Jacob Liberman discusses the relationship between consciousness and vision in his interview Let There Be Light, conducted by Janae Jean and Spencer Schluter. Be sure to listen to the entire enlightening conversation on the Conscious Community Podcast available wherever you choose to listen to podcasts. Many of us have times when we deal with anxiety, Dr. Matthew B. James offers helpful suggestions to prevent this in Clearing Anxiety from Your Future. If you are looking for even more inspiration to keep you on the path to your best life, check out local events like this month’s World of Faeries Festival and the Integrative NLP Practitioner Certification Training this September, as well as the many motivational books featured in Kayla Hancock’s In Print. The Best,

Kasia Szumal

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AUGUST 2018

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COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

The World of Faeries Festival

Self & Group Healing with Heartfulness Meditation

Saturday, Aug. 4, 2018, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 5, 2018, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Second Wednesdays through 2018, Beginning Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2018, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

14th Annual Celebration

Celebration of the Feminine Spirit

Something magical is happening in South Elgin, IL! The World of Faeries Festival always has something new each and every year. We showcase the best local musical talent and entertainment as well as from the surrounding states, even as far away as New York (Frenchy and the Punk) and New Mexico (Randy Granger). We also have the most creative fantasy and fairy artisans who bring their special talents and skills to each event, offering oneof-a-kind handcrafted wares in our vendor village under the ancient oaks of Vasa Park. Many travel extensively to display fine art, fine crafts, sculpture, puppets, published fantasy books, handmade clothes, fantasy and fairy attire, aromatherapy products, and much more. We encourage families to dress in their best fantasy or fairy outfit, leave their “adult” at home and come and enjoy the magic of the event. All ages are welcome from 1 to 101! Where Can You Get So Much For So Little, So Close to Home? David and Gloria Yaeger, co-owners and hosts Location: Vasa Park, 35 W 217 Route 31, South Elgin, IL 60177, 7 miles south on Route 31 from I-90 and five miles north from St. Charles, IL on Route 31. Call 815-788-1630; visit www.theworldoffaeries.com or email dayglo@theworldoffaeries.com. Cost: $11 Adults, $8 Seniors (aged 65 and up), Children (12 and under) are free. Discounts offered online. Free parking!

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AUGUST 2018

This gathering is an opportunity for both givers and receivers of subtle healing energy, including healers that tend to go too long without receiving, as well as recipients of healing who want pay it forward. No experience required, and all levels are welcome to come and sit as one. The focus of the evening is self, group and remote healing guided by the Wisdom of the Heart. We’ll start the evening with some discussion of the power of the Heart Chakra, as well as the need to care for the whole self. The evening concludes with a lightly guided Heartfulness Meditation attuned to group energy that opens pathways for giving and receiving. This event is facilitated by Roger Oney, Energy Worker & Guided Meditation Artist. Location: The classroom at Tribe Healing Arts, 1819 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657. Call 312-281-8819; register and learn more at www.ceconsciousness.com/events. Cost: Free! However, registration is required due to limited space.

Integrative NLP Practitioner Certification® Training Thursday, Sept. 6 to Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018 8:30 am – 8 pm, each day

Inner Source Retreat

Facilitated by Jenelle Thurston & Randi Cutler Friday, Aug. 31, 2018 to Monday, Sept. 3, 2018 Knowing and embracing the gifts of our shadows empowers us to shine authentically. During this four-day women’s retreat nestled into mother nature and a tribe of supportive women, we will dive into the depths of our psyches uncovering hidden parts of ourselves. Through a powerful immersion of Shamanic Breathwork, Firewalking, Yoga, Psyche Exploration and Artistic Creation, our intention is to create a safe and nourishing space for you to curiously explore your inner world, embrace your hidden gifts and celebrate the wholeness of who you are! This is an all women’s retreat. Vegetarian Meals & Lodging included.

Join us for an interactive four-day training event and learn how to use the power of your unconscious mind to achieve success and experience ultimate fulfillment in your life. You’ll learn how to transform undesirable states of being and unwanted patterns of behavior instantly; release limiting beliefs and emotions that no longer serve you; overcome procrastination; lack of motivation; anxiety and phobias; and communicate in a way that fosters deeper and more meaningful relationships. This experiential event is brought to you by the Empowerment Partnership, the world’s foremost authority in providing the most powerful training experiences in alternative and integrative approaches in psychology, human understanding, neuroscience and personal growth. Offering a unique blend of neuroscience, energy and emotional psychology, we are committed to helping people all over the world live intentionally and experience total freedom, fulfillment and autonomy in all areas of their lives. Location: Hyatt Place Chicago/O’Hare Airport, 6810 Mannheim Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018. Call 800-800-MIND (6463); or visit http://bit.ly/2zFIdcv Cost: $194.

Location: Ronora Lodge & Retreat Center, 9325 Dwight Boyer Rd, Watervliet, MI 49098. Register at https://Innersourceretreat.com

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COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

The Last Weight Loss Course You’ll Ever Do! Thursday, November 15, 2018, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m., Friday, November 16 to Sunday November 18, 2018,10 a.m. – 5 p.m. This is a four-day retreat that will resolve your eating issues forever. Using the Release Process and Diane Stilwell’s special tools and techniques, your unique problems with eating and food will be addressed in a revolutionary new way. You’ll easily find freedom and relief at last. As the pounds effortlessly slide off, your unending struggle to lose weight will be over and your ideal weight is revealed.

TheosoFEST

Location: Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 160 E. Pearson Street, Chicago, IL 60611.

Saturday, Sept. 8. 2018, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Call 312-951-6560, please ask for Fernanda, Diane’s assistant; or visit www.dianestilwell.global.

Chicagoland’s Premier Mind Body Spirit Fest is Coming in September! Join us at the Theosophical Society in America on September 8 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. for TheosoFest, an annual mind body spirit festival that’s fun for the whole family! TheosoFest features talks on meditation, Buddhism, holistic healing, spirituality and more; tasty vegetarian food; over 100 holistic vendors; a festive Kids’ Korner; intuitive readings; and hands-on demonstrations in tai chi, yoga and other practices. The annual festival attracts thousands of people and takes place on the Theosophical Society’s 40 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, including a world-class library, the Quest Book Shop, an outdoor labyrinth and the Buddha Meditation Garden. TheosoFEST is free and open to the public! A complete schedule of events, list of vendors and more can be found at www.theosophical.org/theosofest. Location: Theosophical Society in America, 1926 N. Main Street, Wheaton, IL 60187. For more information or to volunteer, please contact 630-668-1571 or info@theosophical.org. Cost: Free! Parking on the grounds is $5 per vehicle, and hybrid cars and bicycle riders can park for free.

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AUGUST 2018

Cost: The deadline for pre-registration price of $647 is Oct. 31, 2018. On Nov. 1, the price will be $697.

[COMMUNITY Q&A]

ASK ALECIA by Alecia Rice

Q: You often talk about inner peace. How do you define and nurture it? — Peace-seeker A: Dear Peace-seeker, Someone once said, “Serenity is not freedom from the storm, but peace amid the storm.” Cultivating inner peace doesn’t allow us to bypass the storms of life. It calls us to expand our ability to calm the inner waters while the tempest is battering at the door. It’s about maintaining a pliable mind and a sense of flexibility that allows us to bend and sway with whatever life throws our way. It requires us to locate our hard, brittle places that easily get offended while finding ways to soften the sometimes harsh effects of engaging in a world that’s rapidly changing. When I encourage others to be mindful of creating a sense of inner peace, I speak of seeking thoughts, actions, perspectives and relationships that assist in calming the mind and body by weeding out things that cause a sense of internal resistance, stress and anxiety. It’s about quieting the voices of the “monkey mind” which can leave one feeling restless and out of control. My practice is to search myself for strands of uncomfortable feelings that show me where I’m expecting things to be different than they’re showing up to be. This reveals my attachments which allows me to work on plucking out the strands of inner resistance while setting my sights towards acceptance and release.

There are various ways of altering the internal landscape to rightly align with a sense of serenity. One can develop a practice such as yoga and/or meditation which calms the mind and body. Other times, it’s about setting boundaries which adds structure that allows only the things into one’s personal space that one wishes to experience. Shifting perspective is a magic key that can bring a sense of freedom by merely changing one’s mind. It’s a tool that I consistently use to evaluate different viewpoints, which can transform an agitated thought into something that brings ease to the mind. One option is to challenge our personal assumptions which are often based on perception more than truth and can be verified with good communication. One teaching that has been quite helpful to me arose from the phrase “Walk your talk.” I notice that if I believe one thing yet I’m talking or taking action that is contrary to that belief, I don’t feel in alignment with myself, which causes a sense of internal fracturing. These splits create tension and a sense of anxiety that activates the monkey mind, and destroys inner tranquility, but if my words and actions are aligned, I feel calm and peaceful. It’s important to discover and engage with tools that have the power to alter the way we think and feel inside. If we consciously choose these tools time and again, eventually we’ll find that the two wolves that are fighting inside merge and unify because there’s no lon-

ger an internal conflict. With time, the practice will become more automatic, so one no longer has to choose them with as much effort. Q: Occasionally, I’ll catch reflections of my actions that are distasteful and not who I really want to be. I want to change but don’t know how, because it feels overwhelming. Can you help me? — Mirror Mirror A: Dear Mirror Mirror, Being human is a messy business. We’re all works in progress, and there are always things that we can improve about ourselves. I, too, have seen such unexpected reflections of myself and it can be difficult to take. These glimpses can be distressing and cause us to squirm internally. Once we catch a peek at these imperfections, it’s difficult to “un-see” what we have seen. Nevertheless, I think it’s important to cut ourselves some slack because we’re all doing the best we can. When we know better, generally, we do better. We often have a hard time looking straight on at a reflection that’s less than admirable because it’s too uncomfortable. Sometimes, we need to “sideeye” the offensive quality to digest it in smaller doses that can be more easily assimilated. Eventually, as we get more accustomed to considering the affliction, we can begin turning towards it with a more direct gaze to steer ourselves towards more positive change. Sometimes baby steps are all we can take. Yet, if we keep ourselves pointed in the direction of our highest intent, eventually we’ll make it to our goal of being and doing better. I think this serves us better than ignoring an issue because it’s too painful to face. Alecia Rice integrates higher concepts with wisdom to bring forth balance, perspective and clarity. She’s a personal advisor, speaker and gatherer of women. For perspective on life issues, you’re invited to text questions and comments to 681-321-1109. Discussions continue at Ask Alecia on Facebook. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

LET THERE BE LIGHT Interview with Dr. Jacob Liberman by Janae Jean and Spencer Schluter For this interview, we had the honor of speaking with Jacob Liberman, O.D., Ph.D. Dr. Liberman is an optometrist, vision scientist, author, speaker, mentor and consultant. His most recent book, Luminous Life: How the Science of Light Unlocks the Art of Living, blends modern science and philosophical wisdom. Over his more than fourdecade career, he has worked with over 40,000 people and has developed numerous light, color and vision therapy instruments. You can find out more about his work, books, upcoming events and more at www.jacobliberman.org. The following article is only a brief snippet of our conversation. Subscribe to the Conscious Community Podcast on iTunes, GooglePlay, Stitcher, TuneIn and YouTube, or go to www. ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com to 12

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hear more insights from Dr. Liberman and listen to previous podcasts. Spencer: Could you tell us a little about your background? Dr. Jacob Liberman: I was trained as an optometrist and a vision scientist. I began doing that work in 1973. I had a series of profound experiences that really shifted my way of looking at and understanding what it meant to see. In 1976, I had a sudden shift in eyesight while in the midst of a meditative experience. That change in eyesight resulted in a 300 percent improvement in my ability to see, which has now lasted for 42 years. So, I have not worn glasses since that day 42 years ago. What’s interesting is that that 300 percent improvement in eyesight occurred with no change to the eyes. In other words,

the prescription in my eyes didn’t change at all, yet I was seeing significantly better. So, it caused me to recognize that we don’t see from the eyes. There is some aspect of our humanity that is actually having this experience. The journey for me over the last 40-plus years has been about investigating the integration of light, vision and consciousness. What began as a miraculous shift in my eyesight got me into the area of light and color-therapy and to the realization that light is far more than the brightness that we experience when we look out during the day. Light is actually the intelligence of life, the foundational energy from where life emerges. When light interacts with the eye, it is literally looking for the eye, moving it toward the next thing in our

ing the eyes or changing your mind, it is about recognizing both physical phenomena and what we call mental or conscious phenomena and that the “Observer” is actually the source from where all this originates. JJ: You talked a lot about color in your book. When we talk about chakras and color, do you feel that those are literal colors? Is it related more to our cultural associations with color, or is it related to certain wavelengths specifically? life that we’re supposed to attend to. We often hear the expression “It caught my eye.” But, we rarely ask what is the it that caught our eye. Having looked at this both as an eye doctor and as a scientist for 45 years now, I’ve come to realize that what catches our eyes is actually looking for us and guiding our life’s journey. Janae: We’ve talked a lot in our interviews about the integration of science and spirituality. In your book, you discuss the Biblical phrase, “Let there be light.” It seems like we’ve boxed in the definition of what light is. Were ancient people more open in their understanding of light? JL: Whether you look at it from spirituality, hard science or religion, they all converge to exactly the same point. One of the things that the book is really speaking about is that most people confuse consciousness or awareness with the “mind chatter” that we experience throughout the day, which is something totally different. When people experience thoughts going on within them what most of them don’t realize is the reason we are aware of this phenomenon is because our true essence is actually observing it. If there wasn’t an “Internal Witness” or “Observer” that sees with no point of view, we would never be aware of the thinking, worrying or the internal rehearsal that most of us experience throughout the day. That “Internal Witness,” that does not speak, is the source of the seeing. It is actually what is experiencing this reality. What I discovered over the years is that vision improvement is not about exercis-

JL: I’ve been working in this field for 45 years, and one thing I notice in the 1970s, is that everyone responded to colors. They had certain colors they felt comfortable with and certain colors they felt less comfortable with. It’s totally different from person to person. I discovered that the colors that people were comfortable with were vibrationally related to the aspects of their lives that they were at ease with, whereas the colors they were uncomfortable with related to unresolved issues in their lifetime or unresolved issues that were genetically passed on from their lineage. At that time, I was also introduced to chakras, but I could not find any scientific evidence having to do with chakras. So, I just put it aside. Over many years of working with more than 40,000 individuals, I’ve found a very interesting correlation: the colors that people were uncomfortable with seem to be related to where people develop physical issues in their bodies. When I compared those two, it was in fact the same idea as chakras. So, in response to your question, yes, I do think it’s literal. In the book, I share how I work with people with color, and I actually allow the reader to go through a process where they can see the colors they are receptive to and the colors that seem to trigger discomfort for them. In the process, they can use a simple visualization at home to work on these issues. I’ve also developed a system that can be used at home with a series of filtered glasses. The system helps people to become comfortable with the colors they used to feel uncomfortable with.

SS: That’s interesting! While you were talking I looked at a picture of the chakras and their colors. The color red has always bothered me, and I have problems with my lower back. That’s really weird! JL: I didn’t come to this because I read about it or it sounded like an interesting idea. I literally, over time, started seeing this relationship. What’s interesting is this, your body runs on light! If I said, “A plant depends upon light.” You’d say, “Of course! Everybody knows that!” What I want to share with your audience is that all plants, all animals and all humans are inseparably connected with light. Every function of your body is light dependent. All of the functions of your body have to be in harmony with Mother Nature. Most disease and chronic illness is because we are chronically out of sync with Mother Nature. Most of us are not living life according to the patterns of light and darkness in nature. Most of us are living according to ideas or beliefs that we have. Beliefs have nothing to do with life. Ideas are continually changing. What happens in Mother Nature is pretty consistent day-to-day. Janae Jean serves as editor, social media manager, recipe columnist and podcaster for Conscious Community Magazine. She has an extensive background in new media and music education. She is also the founder of Perennial Music and Arts, an arts education and healing center based in downtown Geneva, IL. Visit www.janaejean.com and www. perennialmusicandarts.com for details about Janae’s upcoming classes, lesson information, workshops, shows, articles and projects. Spencer Schluter is the advertising account manager, social media manager and podcaster for Conscious Community Magazine. His experience includes visual communications, advertising, social media, marketing, public relations and business development. Visit www.yggstudios.com for more information about his freelance design and consulting work. He is also a master level Reiki and traditional Chinese Qigong practitioner. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

[ALL ABOUT TOWN]

MATA AMRITANANDAMAYI’S VISIT TO CHICAGOLAND MA Center - Elburn, IL - June 26, 2018 by Theresa Puskar “Mata Amritanandamayi is known throughout the world as Amma, or Mother, for her selfless love and compassion toward all beings. Her entire life has been dedicated to alleviating the pain of the poor, and those suffering physically and emotionally.” — www.Amma.org On June 26, 2018, I ventured northwest to Elburn, Illinois where Amma (also known as the hugging saint) has a community and ashram. While I know that she has several centers throughout the world, I had no idea that she had a base here in the Chicagoland area. If you are not familiar with Amma, she has quite an extensive worldwide following and has been an advocate for the needy throughout her life. Based on the powerful charity that she has exhibited throughout the world, and according to her very devoted followers, 14

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Amma is wholeheartedly committed to spreading selfless love and compassion to all beings. Throughout her life, she as embraced and comforted more than 34 million people. Embracing the World,® her global charities focus on providing food, shelter, health care, education and livelihood. Due to the fact that the organization’s administrators are not paid and that the majority of efforts are carried out by volunteers, they are able to do more with less. Like Amma, so many of her community members spend a great deal of time and energy caring for others. When asked where she gets the energy to help so many people, she answers, “Where there is true love, anything is effortless.” Her religion is love, and she never asks others to change theirs, only to contemplate the essential principles of their own faith and to try to live accordingly.

This was my third visit to Amma. I saw her first when my daughter was a baby, and then again when she was nine years old. With the prior visits, my focus was on my daughter. The second visit was particularly memorable, as we had informed our daughter of our divorce the day of the visit. I synchronistically discovered the night prior that Amma was in town. I couldn’t sleep because of anxiety about the day ahead, and while going through my emails, I discovered that Dawn Silver had sent a notice of her visit. When I think back to that day over seven years ago, what I remember most was that my daughter was in tears as we waited for Amma. My husband was alarmed and responded, “Look how upset she is. We need to get her out of here!” My response was very different. Perhaps she needs to cry and feels safe to do so because of the divine energy that emanates here. I proceeded to hold her in my arms and feel into the grief with her while she cried. When we reached Amma, she gave special blessings to my exhusband. I was moved and felt graced that our family was able to receive her unconditional love and blessings on that difficult and sad day. This visit felt a little different. I stood in line for about an hour and then proceeded to the kitchen for another hour or two. (They needed kitchen help and asked for some volunteers.) In the kitchen, I noted the regimen with which all tasks were accomplished. They were very particular about how we cut the vegetables. Each volunteer had a sense of firm, but loving responsibility in their position, no matter how large or small. Once called back to the center, Amma did a short talk with the attendees and then began her selfless service—hours and hours of hugging. While I waited in line, I noted the size of the crowd and the range of ages, from newborn to the elderly. I reflected on my life since first meeting Amma and was filled with awe and gratitude at how much I have experienced in the 14 years since first meeting her. Once I reached her, I asked her assistant for assistance around a particular issue that a loved one was having. While she shook her head in a gesture of understanding, immediately after our short conversation, Amma began to talk to her about something. I think I got an extra minute’s hug as the two of them conversed, but I don’t believe they ever exchanged words about my request. After receiving the hug, I sat down by Amma and began to cry. I wasn’t sure what the tears were about. Was it disappointment at the lack of focus on the issue I brought forth? Were they tears of open-hearted transformation? Or, were they anxiety or a response to the love in the embrace? After years of therapy, introspection and psychoanalytic selfanalysis, I have noted a shift. For over 30 years, whenever I cried, I would go into my “monkey mind” to determine where the tears were coming from. What I noted at that time, and I find more recently, is that I have come to a point in my life where I care less about the where and why they originated. I have dissected my life to the point where I have overturned every conscious memory and experience, so much so, that I no longer feel it is necessary. Now when tears well up inside me, I note, “Something is up. I’m crying.” Very quickly I stopped the

“monkey mind” from analysis paralysis, and I simply sat with the emotions that stirred within me. I felt into them and allowed them to be expressed. Then I moved on. While one might think that this is avoidance, I have learned that it is far from it. In fact, getting into my head was more a way of avoidance than feeling wholly and completely into the intense emotions, witnessing them, then letting them go. While I am grateful for the insights I received in the myriad of workshops, processes and therapy sessions I went through, I’ve reached a point in my life where I know the root issues my soul sought out in this life. Now I am maturing to the point where simply experiencing them is the most compassionate and proactive thing I can do to support my spiritual evolution. As I sat and allowed the tears to well up within me, a baby was placed on Amma’s lap. She was a delightful little soul, fascinated in particular with Amma’s nose. Clearly, she wanted to yank at it and made several gestures towards doing so. I watched the two of them playing together for several minutes. There was so much joy, so much love. I smiled and that is where I really felt the depth of my divine connection. It is my belief that these young souls are still connected to that divinity. They see energy and angels. When they look at you, they are looking beyond your facial expression. I recently took a position at a preschool and spent two weeks with the infants. On one particular day, a 15-month old child returned after several months of being absent. She awoke early from her nap and was confused and disturbed. I picked her up and sat her on my lap. I gave her a Deeksha blessing, and the two of us stared into each other’s eyes for about 15 minutes until she finally fell fast asleep. Those 15-minutes were so precious. I was able to be present with her, and I was graced to have witnessed the divine in this tiny being. I know her mother gave birth to her at the young age of 16, and I’m sure it was not an easy path for her. So, when I looked into the eyes of this gorgeous being, I was filled with gratitude to her mother for her courage, perseverance and love for this child. As I held her, I thought to myself, “Now this one is going to be something truly remarkable in this world.” Then I caught myself, realizing that we are all truly remarkable. We are all hugging saints of sorts. While we may not have the power and the large following that Amma has, we can send love and compassion out into the world in wondrous and magical ways. Theresa Puskar is an author, performer, speaker, minister and motivational audiobook producer. With over 25 years of experience in media and communications, she has worn many hats in the industry. She is the author of the “Terri” children’s book series, which focus on a variety of emotional and social development issues for children, ages five to nine. She has received accolades for her autobiographical solo show, Beauty, Bollywood and Beyond and looks forward to performing it in New York in October. A powerful inspirational speaker and transition leader, Theresa edu-tains her audiences, by touching hearts and minds in a way that is engaging, joyful and lifeaffirming. For more information, visit www.TheresaPuskar.com. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

CLEARING ANXIETY FROM YOUR FUTURE by Matthew B. James, MA, Ph.D.

“The truth is that there is no actual stress or anxiety in the world; it’s your thoughts that create these false beliefs. You can’t package stress, touch it or see it. There are only people engaged in stressful thinking.” — Wayne Dyer A lot of people feel unsettled and generally anxious. World events and politics seem to be contributing to it. It’s hard to turn on the radio or TV without hearing about some new calamity or other: extreme weather, the latest bombing/ shooting, economic markets that freak with every new rumor. Like staring at a traffic accident, we get pulled into all the scary stuff happening out there, even when we realize that bad news is exaggerated to pump up ratings. We can turn off the news but what about 16

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that sense of anxiety concerning our own lives? Generations ago, life seemed simpler and more stable. Marriages and jobs lasted a lifetime. We didn’t worry about what was happening halfway across the world because we didn’t know about it. We felt the support of extended family and we knew our neighbors. Life wasn’t always idyllic, especially for some people, but it seemed more predictable. Today, marriages can end before the ink on the wedding license dries. Jobs depend on quarterly earnings almost

more than good performance and hard work. Our families live thousands of miles away and we hardly know our neighbors. It’s easy to get wound up over all the things you cannot control. We feel anxious. When we feel anxious, we are imagining a bad outcome for something that hasn’t happened yet, right? We might be setting goals, saying affirmations and working really hard toward the results we want. But, if we’re anxious and worried about it, somewhere in our minds we’re

imagining the result that we don’t want. Some part of us believes that the boogie man is poised out there in the future waiting to pull the rug out from under us. Think about it: Why would you be anxious about paying next month’s bills? It’s because part of you believes you might not come up with enough money to cover them. Why would you be anxious about an upcoming speech or presentation? It’s because somewhere you have the image of yourself failing miserably. Why would you be worried about driving in the snow? It’s because you’re considering the possibility of skidding out and having an accident. “But, wait, Dr. Matt. I’ve had those bad things happen to me in the past. It’s just common sense to think they might happen again in the future.” Do you really want the failures of your past to determine your future? That’s what you’re doing when you apply past experiences and project them into the future with your anxiety. In my workshops, I teach a process based on Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and initially developed by my dad, using a “timeline.” I’ve tweaked the process and it has evolved into Mental Emotional Release® (MER) therapy. We use it for a number of issues, including PTSD, phobias, emotional baggage and limiting beliefs. We also use it to release anxiety and project positive outcomes into the future. Here’s how it works: 1. Establish your “timeline.” Our unconscious minds organize us—our memories, our present, what we anticipate in the future—using time. If you stop and think about it, you know where that timeline is in relation to your body. Bring up the memory of an event in your past. As you think about it, where is it in relation to your body? Many people experience the past behind them but it also could be to your left or your right. Now think about something that will be happening in the future. Where is that in relation to your body? In front of you? To the left or right? Just notice that you can draw a line between where your past is and where your future is. This is your timeline.

2. Now think about a specific event in the future that you are anxious about. Maybe it’s a presentation or a difficult conversation you need to have. It might be the time of the month when you sit down to pay bills. Get that specific event clearly in your mind and notice how you feel about it. You might have a clenched jaw or queasy stomach. You might have a feeling of panic or hopelessness. Whatever you feel, notice it. 3. Next, think about the best possible outcome for that event. What would that successful conclusion be? How would that feel? What would happen to let you know that you were successful? For example, maybe you easily pay all your bills and still have money left over. Get as clear an image of success as you can, even if you’re not clear how this could possibly happen. 4. Now close your eyes and simply float above your timeline and out into the future until you are 15 minutes after the successful conclusion of the event. Float for a moment above your best possible outcome. (Don’t worry about doing this exactly right. Just play along.)

first place. Use this process to project the outcomes you want into your future, not the ones you don’t want.

“Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.” —Albert Einstein Matthew B. James, MA, Ph.D. is the President of The Empowerment Partnership. Author of several books, Dr. Matt has trained thousands of students to be totally empowered using NeuroLinguistic Programming (NLP), Huna, Mental Emotional Release® (MER) therapy, and Empowerment Fit, a program that incorporates targeted mind/body/spirit practices to create optimal physical fitness and health. To reach Dr. Matthew B. James visit his blog at www.DrMatt.com If you would like to create positive changes in your life, take part in the NeuroLinguistic Programming Certification Program (NLP) in Chicago on Sept. 6-9, 2018. The cost is $194, and you can save $50 by Sept. 1, 2018 by calling 800800-6463 or visiting http://www.nlp.com/ event/chicago-illinois-nlp-training.

5. Float down and into that moment. Notice what you see, hear and feel. Stay for a few moments to bask in your success. 6. When you’ve had a clear experience of that moment, float back up above your timeline and back into the present moment. Open your eyes, take a few deep breaths and look around the room. 7. Finally, bring to mind the event in the future you were anxious about. As you think of it, notice how you feel. Do you have a different attitude about it? Do you feel more confident, more capable? And, can you see how your new attitude could lead you to a better outcome than your old anxiety? For most people, this simple exercise removes or substantially decreases their anxiety. The shift in attitude feels so natural that they have trouble believing that they were ever anxious about it in the CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

[FROM THE HEART]

THE ALCOHOLIC SAINT by Alan Cohen I heard about a fellow who set out on a spiritual quest to India. There he was recommended by word of mouth to find a particular saint who lived in a remote village. The seeker went to great lengths to travel to the village, where a shopkeeper told him he would find the saint under a certain tree, teaching disciples. Excited, the seeker made his way to the tree, yet instead of finding the saint, he saw a drunkard blabbing with a couple of guys. Disappointed, he returned to the shopkeeper and complained that he had given him bad information; all 18

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that he had found under the tree was a drunk. The shopkeeper told him, “That was the saint. He is actually a very advanced soul, yet his last lesson is to experience and overcome drinking. If you would have spent some time with him, you would have learned a lot.” It is tempting to judge by appearances, to single out one trait of a person, and evaluate him or her by that trait. Yet we are multi-dimensional beings. There is more to each of us than the traits we judge as good or bad. My mentor once

explained, “Alcoholics, drug addicts, and people in mental institutions are often highly sensitive souls. They cannot handle the harshness of the world, so they retreat into a private world. If you pierce beyond their addiction or mental illness, you will often find a very creative and loving being.” The world we see is a result of the perception we choose, and the aspects we key in on. A friend and I were having lunch at the restaurant of a tropical hotel where a parrot sat in a cage near

our table. When I went over to say hello to the Macaw, the restaurant manager saw me and grew nervous. “Stay away from that bird!” he called out. “He might bite you.” Although I was confident with the bird, I didn’t want to ruffle the manager’s feathers, so I stepped back.

ized that Cynthia was actually a very nice person. She had always been very kind to me and my partner. I had been basing my judgment of her on one particular trait. When I looked beyond that trait, I saw someone I truly liked. From that time on I enjoyed her.

During our meal I mentioned the bird to the waitress. “Oh, Keoki is the sweetest bird. He will give you a kiss if you approach him.” She went to the parrot, and he gave her a sweet kiss on the cheek. I was stunned. Were those two people talking about the same bird? Then I realized that the restaurant manager was worried about liability, while the waitress valued connection more. Each person was seeing the bird through their own lens of perception— one based on love, and one based on fear. Each experienced the result of the perception they chose.

Everyone is our teacher. Some teach us through joy, and others through challenge. Reframe challenging people as angels who have come to help you clean the glass of your perception. Everyone is potentially lovable, yet we must choose to claim the potential of our relationship rather than the limits we have superimposed over it. When we reframe relationships as opportunities to experience love, they shift in our favor.

Even if you have chosen a fear-based perception, you can shift to a more rewarding perspective. This is the hidden gift of relationships that trouble us. When you aren’t getting along with someone, you have chosen to see that person through the lens of fear. The relationship as it is will persist (or another one like it will take its place) until you choose love instead. A Course in Miracles tells us, “Trials are yet lessons that you failed to learn presented once again, so where you made a faulty choice before you now can make a better one, and thus escape all pain that what you chose before has brought to you.” My partner had a friend named Cynthia who used to visit our house and chatter endlessly. I found her quite annoying. One day while I was standing on a ladder fixing a window on the second floor, Cynthia stood opposite me and blabbed while I was working. I fantasized about tossing her through the window, yet, being a sensitive new age guy, I restrained myself. Then one day while I was receiving a massage, Cynthia came to mind. In my relaxed state my resistance was diminished, so I thought about her from a more peaceful vantage point. I real-

All perception is selective. From an infinity of choices of what we may see, we choose yet one. If you do a Google image search for “spectrum of light” you will discover that the physical eye

sees yet a tiny range of the many different frequencies of light available. Our vision is quite limited, compared to what is out there. William Blake said, “If the doors of perception were cleansed every thing would appear to man as it is, infinite. For man has closed himself up, till he sees all things thro’ narrow chinks of his cavern.” Devils and angels are less about ultimate reality, and more about choice of perception. We cannot change the people around us, yet we can change how we see them. Then, regardless of what they do, we find inner peace, the only perception worth choosing. To love thy neighbor is to see your neighbor clearly. Alan Cohen is the author of many inspirational books. For more information about his programs, books, free daily inspirational quotes, and his weekly radio show, visit alancohen.com.

Gary Renard

Oneness with Spirit Experience loving for yourself and others. Live in your truth with happiness and joy. Weekend Retreat: August 4-5

Don Miguel Ruiz, Jr

Advancing the Four Agreements into the Soul Gain greater liberation, deeper intimacy, and tremendous honesty for real happiness in loving partnerships Weekend Retreat: August 18-19

Limited Space, Register Today: InfinityFoundation.org 847.831.8828 Free course guide with 60+ courses, events & more. CEUs availabl available. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

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• COMMUNITY WELLBEING EVENT – Menomonee Falls, WI. • EXPLORING AND EXPANDING YOUR INTUITIVE GIFTS & ABILITIES – Oak Lawn • ANCIENT OILS OF SCRIPTURE CLASS – Willowbrook

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• 16TH ANNUAL NATURAL HEALING ARTS FAIR – Springfield, MO

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Midwest Pulse Calendar Wednesday, August 1 EMOTIONAL RELEASE CLASS. First Wednesday of the month. Experience JFB Myofascial Release to Unwind and YLEO Essential Oils with intention to release. All of this happens complimentary at 7 pm at Abundant Health Chiropractic, 6300 Kingery Hwy, Suite 212, Willowbrook, IL 60527, with Sharon M. Vogel, LC, LMT, BCTMB, CLT, LANA Candidate, BSBiomedical, Reiki Master and QiGong Practitioner. RSVP by phone 630-2414100 or visit https://www.schedulicity. com/scheduling/SNM966/classes

Sunday, August 5 NEW THOUGHT ON WCPT – 3-4 pm. Unity of Chicago South Spiritual Community will begin airing a new weekly radio show, Divinely Powered on station WCPT (820 AM). The show will focus on, “What is right with the individual.” While Unity principles are the foundation of the show, other metaphysical practices will be presented. We look forward to lively exchanges with callers as we share the truth of the inner divine presence powering us all. Find out more on our website, www.unityocs.org/evolve

Wednesday, August 8 SELF & GROUP HEALING WITH 22

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HEARTFULNESS MEDITATION 2018 7:00 - 8:30 pm. The evening’s focus is awakening and sharing our innate healing abilities, guided by heart wisdom. Open to experienced and newcomers alike. Registration is required. Location: Tribe Healing Arts, 1819 W Belmont Ave, Chicago IL 60657. 312-281-8819. Email studio@rogeroney.com or visit www. ceconsciousness.com

Saturday, August 11 CHICAGO IANDS, support/study/resource forum for near-death, out-of-body, & spiritual experiences, losses. Starts promptly at 2 pm. 2-5 pm. Suggested donation - $20. Guest Speaker: MOVIES, MOVIES, MOVIES. Raise your vibe! View two great full-length movies full of NearDeath information. No intermission. Frank Auditorium in Evanston Hospital. Free covered parking. For more info: 847-2515758 or http://www.chicagoiands.org

Sunday, August 12 HEALING THROUGH THE AKASHIC RECORDS: 1:00-2:30 pm. What are the Akashic Records? How can I leverage them to transform and facilitate healing in my life? 20% off private session for participants. Location: 9501 S. New England Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453. 708634-3664. www.journeytowholeness.org

Wednesday, August 15 DISCOVERING BODHICHITTA, AWAKENED HEART: Talk by Her Eminence Mindrolling Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche. 7 pm. $50. Our actions of body, speech and mind impact family, friends, people we work with, our community, and the world at large. When we act with aggression, hatred, or selfishness, we create suffering for ourselves and others. But if we act according to the truth of our interconnectedness, we discover our natural open and compassionate nature: Bodhichitta, Awakened Heart. The Buddhist path cultivates this inherent wisdom-compassion, allowing us to rest more fully within it, and see all beings through the lens of love and kindness rather than aggression and fear. Jetsün Khandro Rinpoche is one of the most renowned Tibetan Buddhist masters teaching in the west today and one of the few women. Financial aid available. Mindrol Osel Ling, 1818 Dempster, Evanston, IL 60202. Phone: 443-826-2348. Website: www.mindroloselling.org

Friday-Sunday August 17-19 16TH ANNUAL NATURAL HEALING ARTS FAIR - Starting at 2 pm. $3$5. Over 100 tables full of Healing

Modalities. Location: Shrine Mosque 601 E. St. Louis St., Springfield, MO 65806 Booths available. 417-631-5980, www.energyinmotionnow.com

Saturday, August 25 21ST CENTURY SEVEN DAY MENTAL DIET - Begins at 10 am. Registration fee for this limited seating event is $25. Unity of Chicago South Spiritual Community presents the “21st Century Seven Day Mental Diet”. Facilitating the one-day workshop will be TV host and Sr. Minister of Unity of Chicago South Spiritual Community, Rev. R. Ken Turner. Part of this 3-hour life-evolving session is based on Eric Butterworth’s original diet with enhancements to support the dieter’s success. The workshop will be held at 7415 S. East End Ave, Chicago. Online registration at www. unityocs.org/evolve AUDIOPHARMACOLOGY® GONG & SOUND MEDITATION: 2-3 pm. $25. Deeply relax and let the vibrations of the Gong and other relaxing vibrations open the flow of energy and create a body-mind state for change and healing. Location: 9501 S. New England Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453. 708-634-3664. www.journeytowholeness.org AYURVEDA WELLNESS COUNSELOR CERTIFICATION PROGRAM OPEN HOUSE. 3-5 pm. Free. Learn about certification program, tour school and meet the instructor. See samples of program curriculum, review textbooks and enjoy healthy snacks. Mosaic Wellness W156N11482 Pilgrim Rd., Germantown, WI 53022. 262-2519642. www.mosaicwellness.net REIKI MASTER TRAINING: 10 am - 1 pm. $300. Are you ready to take your Reiki healing to the mastery level? Have you been attuned and practicing

Level Two Reiki for at least a year? This is the final level of training. The student becomes a Reiki Master (RM). The focus for this one-day class is the Master Attunement. Location: 9501 S. New England Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453. 708-634-3664. www. journeytowholeness.org YOUR HAPPINESS MATTERS WORKSHOP: 10:00-11:30 am. $20/ person. An inspiring workshop of discussion, meditation, aromatherapy, and energy flow exercises that will help you get on track to becoming truly happy. Heartland Meditation, 1444 Butterfield Rd. Mundelein, IL 60060. 224-433-6838. www.heartlandmeditation.com

Sunday, August 26 COMMUNITY WELLBEING EVENT 10 am – 4 pm. Free Admission, Free Parking. Multiple Vendors - Crafts, Jewelry, Healing Modalities, Readers, Workshops, Demonstrations and more. W17194 Appleton Ave. Menomonee Falls, WI 53051. 262-404-7119. Visit www. UniversalAwarenessFellowship.org EXPLORING AND EXPANDING YOUR INTUITIVE GIFTS & ABILITIES: 1:00-2:30 pm. $25. Learn tools & techniques to discover and develop your intuitive gifts abilities. Location: 9501 S. New England Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453. 708-634-3664. www.journeytowholeness.org

Sunday, August 26 & Wednesday, August 29 ANCIENT OILS OF SCRIPTURE CLASS. Every last Sunday and Wednesday of each month. This course covers the history behind The Oils of Ancient Scripture and goes in depth about each oil. Experience the rich, woodsy, and fragrant essential oils

dating back to 6,000 BC. Location: Abundant Health Chiropractic, 6300 Kingery Hwy, Suite 212, Willowbrook, IL 60527, with Sharon M. Vogel, LC, LMT, BCTMB, CLT, LANA Candidate, BS-Biomedical, Reiki Master, QiGong Practitioner. RSVP by phone 630-241-4100 or visit https:// www.schedulicity.com/scheduling/ SNM966/classes

Friday-Monday August 31 - September 3 INNER SOURCE RETREAT - LABOR DAY: Facilitated by Jenelle Thurston & Randi Cutler. Knowing and embracing the gifts of our shadows empowers us to shine authentically. During this 4-day women’s retreat nestled into mother nature and a tribe of supportive women, we will dive into the depths of our psyches uncovering hidden parts of ourselves. Through a powerful immersion of Shamanic Breathwork, Firewalking, Yoga, Psyche Exploration and Artistic Creation, our intention is to create a safe and nourishing space for you to curiously explore your inner world, embrace your hidden gifts and celebrate the wholeness of who you are! This is an all-women’s retreat. Vegetarian Meals & Lodging included. Ronora Lodge & Retreat Center. Watervliet, Michigan. Register at: www.Innersourceretreat.com SKY BLUE DREAMS HYPNOSIS CERTIFICATION AND HAPPINESS TRAINING - August 31, September 1-3 and October 5-8. 8 am – 5 pm. $1,699. You will become a certified hypnotist with two organizations ready to start a practice or use for yourself, family and friends. Learn techniques to become happier and healthier in your own life. Mauston, WI. 608-697-4457. www.skybluedreams.net

AT T E N T I O N A D V E R T I S E R S Did you know that the Midwest Pulse Calendar section is one of the most read parts of Conscious Community? The Midwest Pulse Calendar listings are $1.00 per word with a 30 word minimum. Copy is due by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Copy submitted after the deadline is not guaranteed to be included in the next issue. Check or credit card information must accompany calendar listings.

For questions, please call: 847-966-1110 or email: Kasia@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

Thursday-Sunday, September 6-9 INTEGRATIVE NLP PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATION® TRAINING - 8:30 am – 8:00 pm. $194. Description: Experience the extraordinary benefits of Neuro-Linguistic Programming in freeing your mind of limiting beliefs, releasing pain and emotions from the past that prevent you from living intentionally, and reprogramming your mind for ultimate success and fulfillment. Location: Hyatt Place Chicago/O’Hare Airport Phone: 800-800-MIND (6463) Website: http://bit.ly/2zFIdcv

Friday-Sunday September 14-16 WOMEN’S AUTUMN EQUINOX CHAKRA RETREAT - Women’s intensive healing weekend in a beautiful, peaceful country setting. Chakra healing, psychic medium, reflexology, massage, aromatherapy, Thai Massage, Bodywork, yoga, meditation, tai chi, fire ceremony, nature trails. West Bend, WI. 608-3937353. mindsoulandself@yahoo.com; or https://mindsoulandself.com/ womens-wellness-retreats/

Saturday, September 15 SACRED RHYTHMS DRUM TOUR WITH RYAN TAYLOR - 3-6 pm. We’re bringing the magic and the power to you! Join us and our wonderful guest, Ryan Taylor as we take the Sacred Rhythms Drum Circle on the road! On this amazing day we cover not just magical/powerful rhythms for waking up the dormant energies that lie within us, we go over how to utilize these mystical drum patterns. Location: 4400 Frontage Rd, Hillside, IL 60162. 317-504-6227 or http://www. ryantaylordrum.com

Friday-Sunday September 21-23 14TH LIGHTWORKERS CONFERENCE - Admission starting at $10. It’s all about YOU! Learn ancient secrets and healing during this wisdom filled, experiential conference on cutting-edge topics to move you forward. Ancient Templar codes, Angels, Sound Healing and more. Location: 24

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Benedictine University, Lisle, IL 60532. 630-579-8184. www.LightworkersConference.com

Friday-Sunday September 28-30 MOM’S ON FIRE RETREAT – Tucson, Arizona. Join us if you are a mom who is looking to change your life; if you feel lost and want to find yourself and your desired dreams; if you want to learn tools to take with you to create better relationships with your family. This is retreat for you! Location: Loews Ventana Canyon Resort and Spa, 7000 N. Resort Dr., Tucson, AZ, 85750. For information call 630-740-2603 or visit www. riverofwellnessyoga.com

Wednesday-Monday, October 10-15 SOUL BODY WOMEN’S RETREAT: TRANSFORMING THE HEART, EXCAVATING THE SOUL WITH CANDICE WU - Price: Starting at $2,695. With ease and love, immerse in deep embodied healing for your specific desire/challenges in this 5-night retreat. We will transform and harmonize Soul and Body at the root of your ancestry and energetic signature with a nourishing and sweet blend of nature’s medicine, sisterhood, Family Constellations, Yoga, Somatic Therapies, Self-Love practices, and Ayurvedic foods. Excavate limiting beliefs and shift into your essence, truth, and creativity. Reach out to Candice to explore if this aligns with you! Early Bird Discount until August. Location: Zion National Park, Villa, Utah 248-390-5001 https://www. candicewu.com/soul-body

Saturday-Sunday, November 3-4 & Saturday, November 10 THE BASIC RELEASING COURSE November 3, 4, 10. The first two days are Saturday and Sunday from 10am–5pm. The third day is the following Saturday from 10am-4pm via conference call from your home, office, or cellphone. $547. This course is the foundation and the crowning gem of all Releasing courses. In three amazingly

insightful days you will watch your stress, tension, and worries simply melt away. You’ll discover how to “let go” at will, clearing the way to having the life you always longed for, but never dreamed could be possible! Location: Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 160 E. Pearson St., Chicago, IL 60611. For more information, call 312-951-6560 (Please ask for Fernanda, Diane’s assistant) or visit www.dianestilwell.global

Thursday-Sunday, November 15-18 THE LAST WEIGHT LOSS COURSE YOU’LL EVER DO! First day is from 2-5 pm. All other days are from 10-5 pm. Deadline for Pre-registration of $647 is October 31, 2018. On November 1, price will be $697. This is a 4-day live retreat, which will resolve your eating issues forever. Using the release process and Diane Stilwell’s special tools and techniques, your unique problems around eating, and food will be addressed in a revolutionary new way. YOU’LL EASILY FIND FREEDOM AND RELIEF AT LAST. Your unending struggle to lose weight will be over, as the pounds effortlessly slide off, and your ideal weight is revealed. Location: Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 160 E. Pearson St., Chicago, IL 60611. For more information, call 312-951-6560 (Please ask for Fernanda, Diane’s assistant) or visit www.dianestilwell.global

Wednesday-Sunday, December 26-30 THE POWER OF MANIFESTING YOUR GOALS - First day is from 2-5 pm. All other days are from 10am5pm. Deadline for Pre-Registration Price of $697 is November 30, 2018. On December 1 price will be $747. You will learn tools for developing your ability to have absolutely anything you could possibly ever desire in this 5-day retreat, with Diane Stilwell. Just bring your list of goals that you would love to achieve. You must complete a Basic Releasing Course to attend. Location: Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 160 E. Pearson St., Chicago, IL 60611 For more information, call 312-951-6560 (Please ask for Fernanda, Diane’s assistant) or visit www.dianestilwell.global

GROWING YOUR INTERNAL GARDEN

A Guide to Good Gut Health by Barbie Boules If you’re interested in health, you’ve probably heard about ensuring a flourishing gut microbiome, but what exactly does that mean? How do you do it? Let’s dive in! “Gut” is another term for your digestive tract—the amazing system your body uses to digest and absorb nutrients—which runs from your mouth where you take food in, to your anus where unneeded products of digestion are eliminated. Current research suggests that this system is far more complex than previously thought, keeping it healthy affects every aspect of how our body functions and even how we function mentally and feel emotionally. This system is filled with trillions of bacteria, viruses and fungi (about three to five pounds!) that live within us and can either keep us healthy or lead to illness. Additionally, the lining of the gut contains millions of neurons that run from the esophagus to the rectum via the vagus nerve that allow this flora to communicate with the central nervous system. This is why the gut is sometimes referred to as the “second brain” or the “gut/ brain axis.” These little guys should almost be thought of as pets that keep us healthy and happy. What we know for sure is that roughly 70-80% of both immunity and serotonin production occur in the gut. Not to mention digestion, metabolism, inflammation control and production of certain vitamins—this is one important system!

SO, HOW DO WE KEEP OUR FLORA FLOURISHING? Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria that live in the gut. We add to them by including foods that contain similar healthy varieties and strains. Our best choices are fermented foods like plant-based yogurt with live active cultures (choose plain to avoid added sugar and include some fresh fruit),) kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha and miso. Basically, we’re adding to what’s already there to create a more abundant microbiome. If these foods are not appealing, or if you’re not regularly consuming them, you may consider taking a probiotic supple-

ment. Look for a product that contains approximately 10 billion live cultures at the time of purchase and once opened, store the bottle in a cool dark place. Also, look for bacterial strains including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PREBIOTICS Prebiotics are what out gut flora need to “eat” to thrive. We can provide our internal garden with what it needs by adding foods to our diet that contain resistant starch (aka fermentable fibers.) These are found in foods like garlic, onions, artichokes, raw asparagus, slightly green bananas and cooked and cooled oats.

A FEW TIPS FOR A HAPPY GUT As always, there are a few simple, common “rules” for optimal health and these apply to gut health too! Stick to a plantbased food philosophy; make sure you’re getting lots of fiber from vegetables, fruits and whole grains; avoid refined sugar; use antibiotics unless absolutely medically necessary; exercise regularly and get your beauty sleep. Barbie Boules is a registered dietitian and certified health coach in private practice for 17 years. She works with individuals, families, brands and corporate wellness programs. Her approach is personalized to each client – one size never fits all. She is passionate about the concepts of mindful and intuitive eating, with a focus on anti-inflammatory and pro-gut health foods. You can reach her at bboules@nyoutrition.com or by calling 312-607-6689. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

THOUGHTS ABOUT SACRED GEOMETRY By an Artist Who Makes Them by Endre Balogh

Our natural world is filled with a myriad of geometric designs. We can see examples of this in the simplest of flowers and shells, as well as in the geometry comprising the tiniest atoms, or farthest galaxies. These patterns repeat in endless permutations everywhere, yet how do they arise? Are they simply the result of the laws of physics manifesting randomly? If so, that begs the question: where do the laws of physics come from? We know that the elemental forces of gravity and electromag26

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netism could not have existed prior to the Big Bang, so they, along with all physical matter, had to have been created in the same instant. Consequently, many see in these structures the guiding hand of a Divine Presence. As Rabbi Mordecai Finley (one of the preeminent Rabbis of our time) is fond of saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;it is only through Love, Justice, Truth, and Beauty that we can apprehend the presence of God or the Divine Source (call it what you will) in our physical world.â&#x20AC;?

We know from history that as soon as primitive peoples noticed and began to appreciate the structures underlying the design of our universe, they became aware of the presence of the Divine. Pythagoras was among the first to note the fascinating and intricate relationship between the physical world and mathematical symmetry, and subsequent scientists from Newton through Einstein have opined on the obvious interrelationship between naturally occurring geometry and a Divinely inspired order. Sadly, our 21st century age of secular materialism seems to have lost touch with the awe-inspiring mathematical and geometrical imprint of the Divine Source that manifests throughout all of creation. That loss has also made it difficult, if not impossible, for people in our society to be willing to declare something “beautiful.” Our souls, though, are able to recognize beauty easily since (whether we consciously realize it or not) they remain in close touch with that Divine Source. Throughout the ages, it has been the study of Sacred Geometry that has represented an inquiry into the blueprint of creation itself and has developed into a mystical science. It seeks to explore and explain what creates and unifies all things by revealing the energetic patterns along which creation is organized. Since matters of Divine creation and organization are best expressed in terms that many think of as “mystical,” or “occult,” Sacred Geometries speak to us as symbols or archetypes that can only be fully comprehended at a profound level of the soul. Ancient mystical societies recognized that to meditate on Sacred Geometries was a powerful method for linking the human consciousness to the Divine Soul. Starting with the simplest forms: the circle, triangle, and square, and ultimately evolving into a multitude of symbolic geometric patterns, mystics have created complex patterns, which represent the inner realms, and point toward profound levels of self-awareness. It is these patterns that I use in my artwork; acknowledged spiritual motifs such as the Star of David, the All-Seeing Eye of God, The Seed of Life, the Flower of Life, Sri Yantra, Merkaba, and the YHVH or Hebrew Tetragrammaton, as well as many other combinations of shapes that I intuitively interrelate; all combine to become a finished artwork. Each is made entirely in Photoshop, combining both photographic and digital elements. When I begin to make one of these Sacred Geometries, I never know how it will unfold. Sometimes, one will seem to flow through me in a mere 15 minutes, while others may take several days of work to complete. The process constantly surprises me because rarely does the finished work even vaguely resemble the basic elements I started out with. You can watch two time-lapse videos of how I make Sacred Geometries on YouTube (Sacred Geometry 381), or youtube.com/watch?v=a 7kEClU8tf8&feature=youtu.be and (Sacred Geometry 382), at youtube.com/ watch?v=qfCy2lMBw9Y&feature=youtu.be. In the Jewish prayer book there is a wonderful line, which reads, “I form the light and create darkness.” This clearly means to tell us that the essential nature of God is light, and that in order to create our physical existence, He had to first

create darkness to contrast His already existing light. That is one of the reasons I always try to incorporate a representation of light, movement, and expansion into all of my Sacred Geometries. I also often include stars into their patterns; points of brilliant light that help to focus the eyes, mind, and heart. My sense is that I don’t actually make these Sacred Geometries at all, but rather, that I somehow “channel” them into our physical world from some pre-existing place in another realm. To bolster that notion, several people who have meditated with them have reported that in their deepest experiences they encounter inner vistas that are mirrored by these artworks. In a very real sense, then, they appear to be portals into archetypal aspects of the soul and its connection to a Divine Order. Whether you come from a mystical, spiritual point of reference, or are more inclined to the secular, I hope you will agree that these complex geometric patterns lend themselves to singularly beautiful art. I have always been fascinated by the interface between the mundane and the spiritual, so for me, making these Sacred Geometries is a perfect way to explore that fascinating boundary. It is my hope that they will bring you great joy and peace at whatever level you choose to interact with them. Endre Balogh is a world renowned concert violinist, photographer, and graphic artist. Check out his website at: www.EndresArt.com, and his Facebook page Sacred Geometry by Endre.

an AWAKENING SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY of acceptance, safety and inclusion, offering:

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returns to FHC! Chakra Initiations Workshops August 10 - 12

f l o w e r i n g h e a r t c e n t e r. o r g 630.334.5747 CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

[REVIEW OF HEALING MODALITIES]

JAPANESE STYLE REIKI Aligning with Your True Path, Source, and Spirit by Connie Mahealanikealoha Harris Reiki, the word, is Japanese - 2 kanji meaning “spiritual energy”. That’s all it is. Of course, everything is spiritual energy, just in case you didn’t already know. Reiki is a divine gift that helps keep the order of the universe. Reiki, the energy, keeps the planets on track, and is the universal force for all that is. Every atom, molecule and cell, the building blocks of everything that exists in the physical, has a mandate to create and use energy. It is this energy that makes all of creation function, and we are a wondrous part of it all – physical, energetic, and spiritual. We humans each have 72 trillion cells in our bodies, give or take a few. Each cell has a small power plant called a mitochondrion, which produces energy. If you think about those 72 trillion energy-producing units, you may realize that each of us has more available energy than a nuclear power plant. When we add our life’s breath to the created energy, we begin to feel the energy flow, we begin to experience the spiritual connection to all-that-is, and we begin to create and bring forth the energy we have named “Reiki”. Spiritual energy. You may ask, how do 28

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we actually do something useful with the Reiki energy, such as healing ourselves or others, like creating a spiritual practice for self-development, like manifesting those things we want, or just becoming more of who and what we want to be when we grow up? A better artist? A better musician? A better parent? Are we already connected? You bet we are! And we always have been! “Reiki, Reiki, Reiki”. We say those words as if they have a special significance. Well, they do. Each time the emphasis is put on them in that context, the energy given back multiplies. Instant healing, instant comfort, instant mending of the heart space, is possible just by uttering those three words, and breathing in the energy with purpose. We come into life to learn to experience, to bring forth our gifts into the physical. One way to present those gifts is to use the energy of the spoken word. “Reiki, Reiki, Reiki” draws energy from all that is, and forms a space for healing, for being, and for doing. When we “do” Reiki, we breathe in and ask to bring forth the best that is in our selves. Our attitude is one of humility, asking that

we be allowed to participate in this opportunity for healing. The possibilities become limitless. As the change occurs in our energy field, we are then able to breathe out that supercharged energy that carries the ability to create healing in the areas that we desire to change. Energy rides on the breath. We use our hands to direct that energy to the areas that need it. Sometimes touch is welcomed, sometimes not. The energy field always receives, processes, and transforms. Everyone and everything does energy work constantly, whether they know it or not. No matter how hard we try, the Reiki energy always knows what to do. It can be led, but never forced. As we become more congruent with our thought, word, and deed, we are able to enter that place of true healing. Allowing the Reiki energy to work through us is a magnificent experience – to me, it feels like the energy of Home, or of being in love. The process of Reiki is a discovery of self, elevating your frequencies, and exploring new arenas of potential that shape the destiny of life. Those who choose to rush this process make “becoming spiritual” more important than the richness and fullness of who they are. Those age-old questions: “Who am I really? What is it that I want? What is my purpose here?” have answers that are presented as you do your work, as you learn to become more of your true self, as you take the time to rise into the awareness of your place within the grand scheme of things. When we walk upon our path using the Reiki energy to guide us, our steps are deliberately sending out energy to the area on which our foot falls. Therefore, it is our choice whether to have that energy be that of good, of joy, of light, or whether the darkness and heaviness will prevail. To bring a change, call into your mind, and breathe the energy of one thing that lets you feel joy, feel light, and concentrate on it to make it stronger. Breathe Reiki. Bring it forth! Go about your business from that place. Notice the differences in the results you feel within yourself and the spaces around you. Use those tools that you know so well, to change your outlook, to change your way of being in the world. It is this change that you are seeking. It is this change that will bring you to a place of peace within yourself. The results are truly up to you. Mikao Usui, who founded the Reiki energy system and practice in Japan in 1922, said that if you want to know the history, take a Japanese Reiki class and read it yourself. Connie Mahealanikealoha Harris is a nationally recognized therapist, author, speaker, and educator in the field of natural therapies and mind/body/spirit health. She has been practicing and teaching energetic and physical healing modalities since 1985, creating popular modalities such as Reiki-ssage, ReikiReflex, and Reiki Facelift, among others. She can be reached at: 630-886-5890, or connie@reikicouncil.com. (If you are a healer or practitioner of any alternative healing modalities, and would like to submit an article about it, please call Kasia at 847-966-1110.)

The Foundation for Shamanic Studies Michael Harner’s The Way of the Shaman (R) Shamanic Journeying, Power, and Healing The Basic Workshop in Core Shamanism Sat-Sun Sept. 22-23, 2018 Rockford, Il. Sat-Sun Sept. 29-30, 2018 Indianapolis, IN. Sat-Sun Oct. 27-28, 2018 Branson, MO.

Michael Harner’s Advanced Workshop’s Prerequisite Michael Harner’s Basic Workshop, The Way of the Shaman(R)

Power Soul Retrieval Training

Sat-Sun June 23-24, 2018 Indianapolis, Indiana

Shamanic Divination Training

Sat-Sun Nov. 10-11, 2018 Bloomington, IL

Shamanic Extraction Healing Training Sat-Sun Aug. 18-19, 2018 Bloomington, IL.

Shamanic Dreamwork

Sat-Sun Oct. 13-14, 2018 Indianapolis, IN.

Shamanism and the Spirits of Nature Sat-Sun Aug. 4-5, 2018 Indianapolis, IN. Sat-Sun Oct 20-21, 2018 Rockford, IL.

Shamanic Training in Creativity

Sat-Sun Dec. 1-2, 2018 Indianapolis, IN. 13 CEU’s offered upon completion of any FSS weekend workshop Jo Ann Broder ShamanicThunder.com jo@ShamanicThunder.com 815-519-3104

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COSMIC DAILY WEATHER August 2018 by Tara Aal

Overview August begins with Lammas, one of eight traditional Celtic festivals. Lammas is a cross-quarter festival, falling halfway between Summer Solstice and Fall Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere. It’s a celebration of the first harvest and last days of summer. Harvest is the culmination of the growing season and will sustain life throughout the dark and dormant months. We aren’t so connected with the crops and nature these days, but we all experience cycles of growth. This is a wonderful time to celebrate all the ways you create and receive abundance. Lammas is a powerful energetic doorway as it falls at 15 degrees Leo. The 15th degree of any fixed sign (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius) is said to be a “Gate of the Avatars,” bestowing superhuman powers and unique gifts and talents. When we believe we can cross the threshold into new experiences and opportunities and that magic is something we create all the time, we make it so. Astrology reveals the nature of your personal wiring and energy. It also reminds you of your deepest desires and intentions for growth. It’s an amazing tool to bring about awareness, raise consciousness and increase empathy and compassion. Check your natal chart out at www.astro.com. The Moon takes about 28 days to complete her orbit through the 12 signs, spending approximately two and a half days in each sign. When we say the Moon is void-of-course (VoC), it means the Moon makes no more major aspects to other planets until it leaves the sign it’s in. We sometimes say the Moon is floating between signs during these times, and it creates a sense of timelessness. You can embrace these events by slowing down and tuning into your inner guidance. It’s not the best time to start new things, but it’s the perfect opportunity to make room for what’s to come. If you want to know more, check out www.moontracks.com.

Wednesday, August 1 With Aries Moon cozied up with Chiron, you might want to get something started but find it hard to summon the courage. We’re all working with the theme of identity crisis which is an opportunity to be and show more of who we are–it’s time to take off the old costume and follow your own lead! Pisces Moon VoC ends 5:54 a.m. when the Moon enters Aries.

Thursday, August 2 Tension builds throughout the day, especially between your desire for independence and the pressure to conform to rules and demands. It doesn’t have to be one or the other, but Moon/Pluto square can sure seem like it! Let go of emotional power struggles and use your energy for what’s worth the effort. Aries Moon VoC begins at 9:52 p.m. and lasts until tomorrow.

Friday, August 3 Be patient with each other—none of us is at our best when our most childish needs and fears are triggered. Taurus Moon brings 30

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steady grounding which will help balance the emotional instability this evening. Aries Moon VoC ends at 2:51 p.m. when the Moon enters Taurus.

Saturday, August 4 This is a good day to open to receiving more fun, joy and passion; Sun and Jupiter contacting Moon don’t want you to stay small. If you’ve always done things a certain way, take a different route or approach. Open the curtains and let some light in. There is a much grander stage if you will just step out and look up.

Sunday, August 5 Sun receives an infusion of the wise champion with Pallas Athena conjunction. These two are a pair of mythological heroes. They remind us to courageously use our intelligence and vibrant life force to follow our heart’s calling. Taurus Moon VoC begins at 6:46 p.m. and lasts until 8:31 p.m. when the Moon enters Gemini.

Monday, August 6 Communication and conversation are not in short supply today. Gemini Moon just loves to talk, but when Venus enters Libra this evening the need to be heard will increase. Venus in Libra expects reciprocity, cooperation, and fairness…and wants everything to be beautiful. Practice the art of active listening and watch your relationships flourish.

Tuesday, August 7 Uranus turns retrograde for the next five months reflecting our need to pause and reexamine our brand of originality and whether we are giving ourselves the freedom to express and liberate in ways genuine to us. Use this time to redefine what it means to be free and assess if there are ways you need to let yourself out of the cage. The Uranus archetype in us wants to fly with no strings attached! Gemini Moon VoC begins at 2:54 a.m. and lasts until 11:01 p.m. when the Moon enters Cancer.

Wednesday, August 8 Each month, when Moon transits Cancer, we are reminded to take care of ourselves and create a safe and nurturing home, even when things seem to be falling apart around us. Our planet is undergoing a major shift and we know radical change is

necessary. Create emotional stability within yourself and support others so we have a chance to rebuild on a strong foundation.

Thursday, August 9

pressure and weight it bears. If your actions aren’t supporting you on all levels, take the time to come up with a new plan. Virgo Moon VoC begins at 11:37 p.m. and lasts until 11:57 p.m. when the Moon enters Libra.

If you feel like something or someone is trying to control you, you’re responding to the Moon/Pluto opposition. Cancer Moon is emotional and sensitive and we’re likely to react without fully understanding the big picture. If something external seems to smother or drag you down, look in the mirror and own how you do this to yourself. You are the one with the power! Cancer Moon VoC begins at 6:20 a.m. and lasts until 11:17 p.m. when the Moon enters Leo.

Tuesday, August 14

Friday, August 10

This morning could start with some stress in your relationships, so take a few minutes to remember that everything happening outside of you reflects something inside of you. If you can accept the challenge as an opportunity to learn something new about yourself, you’ll diffuse most of the tension before anything escalates.

All planets are retrograde, except Venus and Jupiter both traditionally considered benefic. Take a moment to focus on Venus, to whom things naturally flow and expansive Jupiter, with his inspiring confidence. Their domains—relationships, love, ease, beauty, art, pleasure, money, optimism, wisdom, good fortune, adventure, fun, truth and meaning—are not under collective redefinition. Almost everything else is. Let your Venus and Jupiter flow. Be love. Be beautiful. Be true. Be the best you.

Saturday, August 11 Leo New Moon inspires us to access our light within and let it shine out! If you’ve been thinking about starting a creative project or following your heart in a new direction, this is a great time to set intentions to make it happen. Leo Moon VoC begins at 4:57 a.m. and lasts until 10:59 p.m. when the Moon enters Virgo.

Sunday, August 12 You are ready to get something done today with the strength to see it through and innovation to bend the rules to work in your favor. Virgo Moon trine Saturn and Uranus is a gift for any of us needing to get down to work, even if it’s simply reorganizing the closet.

Monday, August 13 Last night, retrograde Mars moved from Aquarius into Capricorn pushing us to reconsider our limits, especially in how we use our energy. Your body might respond to this shift, letting you know it’s tired of the

If you see something beautiful in someone else today, tell them. Moon/Venus conjunction is the art of peaceful and enjoyable emotional connection. It is also an invitation to appreciate the beauty around you and contribute in ways that help others feel good.

Wednesday, August 15

Thursday, August 16 Moon/Uranus opposition this morning can show up as physical and emotional unpredictability. It’s wise to expect the unexpected, especially as you commute and are tempted to succumb to the seduction of your smartphone when the best life choice is to fully pay attention in the moment. Libra Moon VoC begins at 3:04 a.m. and lasts until 3:54 a.m. when the Moon enters Scorpio.

Friday, August 17 Feelings are intensified today and once triggered can take some time to calm down. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when a big rush of emotion washes over, but you know how to ride that wave. Let go of any defensiveness and use your intuition to sense the deeper issue at hand. With a new understanding of what you really need and why, you can begin to heal old wounds.

Saturday, August 18 If you’re in the mood for fun, Sagittarius Moon is your companion! Following your passion feels good. Do the things you love and that fill you with more vitality. Scorpio Moon VoC begins at 10:07 a.m. and lasts until 11:45 a.m. when the Moon enters Sagittarius. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

Sunday, August 19

Tuesday, August 21

Mercury turned direct late last night and we’re back in forward motion according to our usual perspective. Today is the third exact Jupiter/Neptune trine since December 2017. If you are reading this, you can feel that we are undergoing a major shift in consciousness. This transit’s energy reflects the need to move beyond personal beliefs that divide us into universal understanding and connectedness. We need to believe—not just in something greater, but in ourselves. We have access to unlimited power, but it slips through our fingers in the absence of love. We’re closer than we think to something so much better.

Moon/Saturn conjunction in Capricorn can feel like a pair of way too tight pants, but it serves to help us realize we can get a new pair or an entirely different outfit. Saturn is the part of us that not only learns to work within the rules, it can create and change the rules. You’re worth the best-tailored suit in town.

Monday, August 20 Today there is natural harmony between experiences we hold in our memory and our desire to journey forward. It’s all working together, we just need to integrate. When you realize that everything is happening right now (past, present, and future,) you are free to change anything you want. Sagittarius Moon VoC begins at 6:46 p.m. and lasts until 11:00 p.m. when the Moon enters Capricorn.

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Wednesday, August 22 It’s an active day for Moon as she aspects four planets, so be ready for the emotional rollercoaster by staying calm and grounded. Late tonight, Sun enters Virgo and passionate fire gives way to practical earth. We’re entering the last month of summer, a natural time of transition. Take time to enjoy the shade along with the sunshine and spend your energy doing things worth the effort.

Thursday, August 23 We can make good use of a power boost this morning with Moon/Mars conjunction if we engage it as an ally versus an opponent. Mars likes a fight and Moon takes it personally, but there is an air of liberation available if you are willing to feel things from a new perspective. Capricorn Moon VoC begins at 9:19 a.m. and lasts until 11:55 a.m. when the Moon enters Aquarius.

Friday, August 24 As collective humanity, what is our identity? Most of us are not happy with the current state of our country and how we’re seen around the world. Chiron/Astraea conjunction in Aries reflects this self-image wounding and it also suggests we’ve spent too much time fighting about the wrong things. It’s time to give up what can’t be won and champion what can. Aquarius Moon VoC begins 11:38 p.m. until Sunday.

resorts.” Luna shines light on the need for interconnectivity and sharing between all things. In Pisces consciousness, we are all One and we have an inherent responsibility to the well-being of the Whole, which includes all its people and parts. Aquarius Moon VoC ends at 12:32 a.m. when the Moon enters Pisces.

Monday, August 27 Mars turns direct and our energy is released from its temporary state of reevaluation. If you’ve been reconsidering what you really want and how to act, it’s time to take responsibility for implementing your course corrections and go for it!

Tuesday, August 28 Moon cycles into Aries this morning which can get things moving. With Mars direct, the path to victory is clear. Make sure you really want it—Aries is hard to stop once she gets going! Pisces Moon VoC begins at 8:54 a.m. and lasts until 11:35 a.m. when the Moon enters Aries.

Wednesday, August 29 We have cosmic breathing room today which sets you up perfectly to follow your instincts and give yourself space to feel and listen to you, without so much external influence.

Thursday, August 30 Moon/Venus opposition might bring you face-to-face with the force of your personal desires compared to what you think is required to keep your relationships happy. This is a chance to balance the “I” and the “We” in ways that make everyone feel good. Aries Moon VoC begins at 6:03 p.m. and lasts until 8:30 p.m. when the Moon enters Taurus.

Saturday, August 25

Friday, August 31

Sun, Uranus and Saturn form a grand earth trine, enhancing the flow of manifestation. Work will be easier today, so take advantage and accelerate the progress of your to-do list. What normally takes you three hours can be accomplished in one.

Take it easy on yourself and others today. Choosing forgiveness will really simplify a situation and bring things into balance, especially your own feelings. Taurus Moon lends a steady hand and grounded spirit you can use to build the best life on earth.

Sunday, August 26

Tara Aal is a practicing astrologer, writer and teacher. She studied Evolutionary Astrology with Laura Nalbandian and is a certified Soulsign Astrologer through Adam Gainsburg. Visit www.TaraAal.com.

Happy Pisces Full Moon! The Sabian Symbol for this lunation is “Heavy car traffic on a narrow isthmus linking two seashore

YOGA

Getting Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable by Raquel Jex Forsgren, Yoga Therapist, C-IAYT Suffering is defined, in a broad sense, as an experience of unpleasantness and aversion associated with the perception of harm or threat of harm in an individual. The opposite of suffering is pleasure or happiness. Suffering can be mental, physical or emotional. It affects each of us uniquely. Simply put, it comes from what we perceive, how we perceive it and our reaction to it with the “it” being a thought, a person or a circumstance. What is the catalyst to suffering? The mind. At the root of suffering lies one word—control. I’ve been a “recovering control-freak” for the better part of my life. I grew up in a household where perfection was expected, coming and going was done with a thumb over my spirit, combined with a lot of loss and trauma. I learned at an early age that if I could control my grades, my achievements, my outside appearance, my tone of voice, my interactions, planning every detail over and over in my head and by playing out scenarios that I could essentially “control” all outcomes. For the most part, I did control a lot of outcomes. Hard work paid off, I got the promotions, stayed in shape and much more. On the inside, my head felt like a dark, messy, spinning cycle of thoughts and my body was wracked with ulcers, anxiety, insomnia and low self-esteem. Over the past 10 years, with the help of two therapists, Lisa Herz and Melinda Yachnin, and a solid yoga practice, I’ve learned that we have to let go and get comfortable with being uncomfortable with how little we truly have control over.

HOW DOES YOGA HELP US HEAL? Yoga is about living in the moment. Over time, a yoga practice will help you retrain yourself to focus on the present. During the physical practices, a teacher or yoga therapist will help you connect your breath to each movement, leaving little room to think about a failed relationship or what’s to come in the future. During these movements, emotions and thoughts do arise. It’s through being completely present in a pose that you can learn how to observe the emotion or thought without getting too involved. Yoga changes your attitude. In every yoga therapy session, I ask the person something so simple, yet profound: “What are you grateful for?” Stop in this very moment while YOU are reading this, close your eyes, and answer that same question. It is physiologically impossible for the brain to have a negative thought while contemplating gratitude. Try it! Within this “attitude of gratitude”, your perceptions change and how you respond and react when circumstances change. Along with this attitude, the entire narrative we create in our minds subtly begins to shift with more yoga practice. Try this simple ritual to see for yourself: keep a journal for the next 10 days, write just a few things at night that you are grateful

for, noting your mood, and at the end, reread it and just notice if anything has shifted for you. Yoga helps us to be comfortable being uncomfortable with change. Change is always happening. Our thoughts, the weather, our emotions, our bodies, friends, jobs and the list is endless. Most of the time the change is for the better and feels amazing. Sometimes, change just hurts. It becomes painful and we resist. Most of the people I work with have described change fueling three emotions: anxiety, anger and sadness. Yoga teaches us to “lean in,” “embrace the emotion,” and “be curious” about it. I’ve learned how to do this from one of my teachers, Richard Miller, a psychotherapist and leader in the field of yoga therapy. Guided meditation, with or without movement with yoga postures, is one of the best practices for doing this. I have a few on my website, and you can find others by searching for Richard Miller on the Insight Timer App, as well as www.iRest.us. Close your eyes, notice HOW and WHERE you are breathing, notice WHERE you are feeling the strongest sensations in your body, take ten full rounds of breath, exhaling just a little longer than the inhale, and then notice the overarching emotion that you are feeling. Notice where you feel it in your body and say the words to yourself “I am leaning into this emotion.” By simply being curious, you’ve allowed the emotion to be heard, witnessed and observed, thereby losing its power over you, leaving you with just a bit more insight on what is behind what you are feeling. Remember, if we can control our mind and our breath, we can and will heal our own suffering.

Raquel Jex Forsgren is a Certified Yoga Therapist, C-IAYT, a graduate from Soul Institute and certified by the International Association of Yoga Therapists. Raquel has been living yoga for over a decade. She lives in Chicago. You can reach her at livingyogatherapy@gmail.com and visit her website at www. livingyoga-therapy.com. Sources: Beloved Patients, iRest, Richard Miller, MD; The Gerontologist, 2015, The Tiny Buddha, Forbes CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

Lightworkers Classified Directory

AKASHIC RECORDS LINDA HOWE - Since 1996,

Dr. Linda Howe has been teaching and writing about the Akashic Records, the sacred archive of our Souls’ past, present, and future possibilities. The Records offer transformation by lending us exactly the wisdom, guidance and energetic support that we need in this lifetime! Learn more at www.lindahowe.com

ANGEL CARD READER RHONDA BRUNETT INTUITIVE MEDIUM - Phone Readings.

Contact: FB: Rhonda’s Tarot Readings; call 630-885-2128, www.rhondabrunett.com.

ART CHANNEL CLAIRVOYANT VISIONARY DRAWINGS & CHANNELED MESSAGES FROM YOUR SPIRIT GUIDE. Past Lives, Passed Loved

ones, Angels, & Galactic Starseed heritage. Reconnecting you to your unique creative light! Chicagoland/ worldwide via Skype. spiritsketches@gmail.com, 708-680-6297, http://www.SpiritSketches.com

SANDY RUEVE. Astrology

readings, personal & universal talismans, intention consultations, workshops, retreats. Align in harmony with the Universe. Sandy is available for astrology readings, talisman consultations and workshops. To schedule an appointment, or learn more, visit: www.intentionbeads.com MICHAEL WHITCOMB has

successfully guided and trained thousands of people on their paths of self-exploration. Psychic, Reiki Master Teacher,

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High-potentials, solo-preneurs, managers & fellows in-transition. When/where: Sunday afternoons / Chicago, IL. 60613. Join at www.Meetup.com/CoachTraining.

AYURVEDIC

DIVINE CREATIVE SYNERGY

AYURVEDIC THERAPY RESOURCES offers Ayurvedic Reflexology,

Acupressure and Indian Head Massage. Reflexologists Jay and Ramila Khatau. Location: 410 40th Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Call: 630-258-0196 or 630-730-5602.

BODYWORK SHARON M. VOGEL, CLT, LMT, LC, BCTMB, Clinic Director of

National Lymphatic Centers. With 27 years in business, I am referred to by Mayo Clinic practitioners, national surgeons, physicians and patients. The practitioners at NLC care for you with Biofeedback, Acupuncture, No-needle Acupuncture, Rife, Chiropractic, Cupping, Myofascial release, Craniofascial, Lymph Drainage, Oncology Massage, and much more. 5002 Main Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515. www.lymphatics.net, 630-241-4100. THERAPEUTIC BODYWORK.

ASTROLOGY

High Priest, Ritual Teacher, Astrologer, Crystal Grid Maker, Artist, Poet. “Like” Soul Empowerment on Facebook. To schedule a session, contact: 616-516-0194.

AUGUST 2018

Your pain and suffering are telling you something! Ron Shereyk offers Integral Bodywork® and instruction in Zen breathwork, TRE™ (tension/ trauma releasing exercises), meditation, and other body-mind practices.708-710-6227.

BOOTCAMP FOR COACHES DO COACHING • BE COACHED • OBSERVE COACHING - Master

the art of coaching. Topics: Listening, questioning, feedback, behavioral coaching & coaching conversations. Attendees:

DIANN SQUIERS, CRMP, CRMT,

CA Reiki & Aromatherapy Sessions by appointment. Free Consultation before first session. Location: DIVINE CREATIVE SYNERGY, 707 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL. For more information on workshops & events visit: www.DivineCreativeSynergy.com or call 312-391-8740.

DREAMWORK PRACTITIONER W. KEREN VISHNY. Explore the

potency of your dreams. Your dreams can help you heal and grow, strengthen your relationships and rediscover your natural creativity. Dreams are a spiritual path, customized for you. 847-440-4468, www.kerenvishny.com, Kvishny@mindbodynorth shore.com

ENERGY HEALING DIVINE CREATIVE SYNERGY. Diann Squires, CRMP, CRMT, CA.

Reiki, Aromatherapy sessions by appointment. Free consultation before session. Check website for upcoming workshops and events! Location: Divine Creative Synergy, 707 Chicago Ave., Evanston, IL 60202, 312-391-8740, www.DivineCreativeSynergy.com. JOHREI is a preventative and

complementary therapy to balance our Mind, Body, and Spirit by harnessing the Divine, Spiritual Light. Johrei sessions are a holistic means of

attaining true health and spiritual growth. Visit www.johreichicago.org Chicagoland call: Joe Jarnol 773-465-9014, Tom Wenc 815-886-4337. PEACE OF LOVE HEALING Jessica

Marek “Helping you retrieve your missing peace.” Certified Energy Touch® Practitioner (3 Year Program) Distance Healing from Grand Blanc, Michigan. Email: peaceoflovehealing@gmail.com, Call or text: 248-514-0032, www.PeaceOfLoveHealing.com. ROGER ONEY INTUITIVE CONSULTATIONS AND INTEGRATIVE CHAKRA THERAPY® to help

you: Clarify Your Calling, Clear Relationships, Balance Heart with Mind, and Develop Your Gifts. Appointments by phone or in person in Chicago and Oak Park, IL. Email: studio@rogeroney.com or visit: www.rogeroney.com 312-281-8819. SHAWNA IS A CERTIFIED REIKI MASTER TEACHER & PRACTITIONER IN USUI/TIBETAN/HOLY FIRE II by the ICRT. In-home sessions

or by appointment at Salternative Spa in Geneva. Reiki promotes stress reduction, relaxation and self-healing. Always leading with love. Monthly Classes or for appointments: 847-401-1015 or www.mylifewithreiki.com. VIRGINIA “GINGER” ADAMS.

Reconnective Healing Foundational Practitioner. The Frequencies of Reconnective Healing lead us to a place where spiritual, emotional and physical healing resides. To schedule an appointment, please visit www.virginia-adams.com or call 847-445-0092.

FOR SALE

SMITA SHAH, LAC, CNC, BA.

FOR SALE: WELL KNOWN HOLISTIC WELLNESS & EDUCATION CENTER established in 1994

in Homewood IL. For information and to schedule a viewing, email: info@insightawareness. com or 708-957-1284.

HOLISTIC HEALING BRIGITA VAICIULYTE, PT (LT), CRP - Light touch therapy for

chronic back pain, headaches, joint pain, anxiety and fatigue. The session blends Craniosacral Therapy, Reiki, Myofascial Release. Long lasting results in treating chronic pain. LaGrange, IL. Contact: 224-243-1513, www.healinghands.name

I specialize in your chronic health conditions through Acupuncture – with or without needles – Biofeedback, Reflexology, Photon Genie, PEMF, Rife, Laser therapy, and more at National Lymphatic Centers, 5002 Main St., Downers Grove, IL 60515. 630-241-4100.

HOUSE CLEARING JEN ZAPPA. CLEARING NEGATIVE ENERGIES AND ENTITIES. Using

ancient mantras and gemstones to clear up your space. Energy worker, healer, rare stone mineral seller. If your house needs some clearing energy, please email jenzap89@gmail.com or call 708-879-9017.

LIFE COACH NEW BEGINNINGS - Pamela

JESSICA COTE, B.S.; LYMPHATIC THERAPIST; Burr Ridge, IL

Gembica, M.A. I am a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and have been a student of the Ascended Masters for over 20 years. I can help you make personal and professional changes in your life, fulfill your potential and heal from the negative experiences and beliefs that hold you back. You can reach me by phone 406-223-4265.

KAREN MARZEC, ENERGY HEALER - Discover renewed

LIFE-LONG LEARNING & PERSONAL GROWTH

Lymph Therapy helps detoxify, improve immune function, and reduce swelling. Sluggish lymph equals inflammation which can lead to dis-ease. Call or text 815-919-0870. Contact: www.LymphaticswithJess.com.

radiance and vitality with a unique combination of quantum energetics, sacred ceremony and biofield imaging. Individual sessions, biofield readings, remote healing, group sessions and classes available. 866-916-2348, www.karenmarzec.com

INFINITY FOUNDATION offers

more than 200 Courses for Life in personal, professional, and spiritual growth and development. Reboot, Rebalance, Vision for 2018. CEUs available. Reasonable

ENERGY MEDICINE CAROL SWANSON LLC Medical

Intuitive & Wellness Consultant, specializing in the release of chronic health issues. Intuitive Health Analysis and Treatment Protocol. Deep Meridian Clearing releases the energetic blockages/trauma supporting your illness. Clients worldwide. Serving Humans and their companion animals. Email: carol.swanson@att.net, 608-359-4720 or visit www.carol-swanson.com

FENG SHUI LEARN FENG SHUI at The Feng

Shui School of Chicago, recognized as a Gold Level School by the International Feng Shui Guild. Certified Consultant Training Program. Contact: LauriePawli@gmail.com, 630-279-8870. www.TheFengShuiSchoolOfChicago.com CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

practitioner and classroom rental. Free course guide. 1280 Old Skokie Rd., Highland Park, IL 60035. www.infinityfoundation.org, 847-831-8828.

PAST LIFE REGRESSION SUSAN WISEHART, LMFT, 25

years licensed therapist. Past/ Between Lives regressions. Trained by Brian Weiss and Michael Newton. Des Plaines/ Mundelein. 847-438-7878, www.susanwisehart.com.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES OFFICIATE: WEDDINGS & OTHER TRANSITIONAL EVENTS Ordained

non-denominational minister officiates at transitional events (weddings, baptisms, funerals, birth rites, etc.). For further information on personally-tailored, magical and intimate experiences, contact Theresa Puskar. www.theresapuskar.com, 630-272-1805.

you the opportunity to study with like-minded people in an emotionally safe environment. SLC strives to provide learning opportunities based on expansive concepts that challenge and amplify mainstream knowledge and experience. We offer the chance to learn about things that you may have always been curious about but haven’t known where to go for answers. To check our classes and receive location details please email: SpiritualLearningCenter@gmail.com, visit www.SpiritualLearningCenter.com.

SHAKUHACHI TEACHER JIA SENGHE-SHAKUHACHI LESSONS - Shakuhachi students

focus on bringing mind, breath and sound together within one’s being. Affordable, authentic Shakuhachi from Japan. 708-972-3373, http://www.utaguchi.com

SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER

PSYCHICS PSYCHIC OF CHICAGO solves all

problems! 5 Generation Psychic specializes in re-uniting loved ones, Palm, Tarot, Psychic Readings Chakra and Aura Cleansing. Open Daily 8 am -11 pm. Walk-In! Free Parking. 5732 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60634. 773-202-7062. PSYCHIC READINGS. Tarot card

reader. Energy balance and cleansing. Available for parties. I have answers regarding love, marriage, heath and business. Location: 169 W Boughton Rd., Bolingbrook, IL 60440. For appointment, call 630-226-1968.

STEPHANIE MEIS, MA LCPC.

A guide to help you explore and heal your inner obstacles - using energy, past life exploration, ancestral energy, music, dialogue and visualization. The fun and holistic way to do psychotherapy! Contact info: 847-609-0406, smeis@stephaniemeis.com.

SCHOOLS AND LEARNING CENTERS DIANA KUSHENBACH ACADEMY OF SPIRITUAL ARTS - Just

expanded!! Intuitive Energy Healing, Psychic Medium, Gong/ Sound Healing Meditations, Reader/Healing Fairs. Store hours: Wednesday and Friday 10 am – 4 pm; other days by appointment. Location: 6442 College Road, Lisle, IL 60532. www.dianakushenbach.com 630-269-0115.

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CHRISTINE MOSES IS A HOLISTIC COUNSELOR AND SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER, specializing in

facilitating women’s circles and retreats, as well as training other women to lead circles with her book, The Wisdom of Circles: Gathering Women for Conscious Community. 847-525-2600, www.chrisfeatherheart.com.

TAI CHI/QI GONG David Eckert - Tai Chi/Qi Gong

Improves: Immune System; Strengthens Bones; Balance; Memory; Nervous, Cardio-vascular, and Respiratory Systems and More! 815-530-5984.

TAROT- INTUITIVE COUNSELING

PSYCHOTHERAPY

THE SPIRITUAL LEARNING CENTER (SLC) is here to offer

AUGUST 2018

JAN CEDERLUND, M. Msc, Ph.D.

Private readings, parties and teaching. McHenry County and surrounding area. For appointments call: 815-482-2511, or email: TarotByJan@aol.com

TRANSFORMATIONAL READINGS PERSONAL READINGS THAT UPLIFT AND EMPOWER! CAROL SWANSON LLC. Carol has 24+

years as a Spiritual Reader/ Healer/ Teacher, Clairvoyant/ Medium. Spiritual Laws to evolve and succeed. Life Path/Transitions. Profound Spirit Releasement/ healing of soul aspects. Animal companion reader. Cell: 608-359-4720 Email: carol.swanson@att.net Website: http://www.carol-swanson.com.

YOGA STUDIOS EVERYDAY YOGA ESCAPE - Yoga

from anywhere! Join our online studio with easy to follow yoga classes and relaxing guided meditations! Website: www.EverydayYogaEscape.com

CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY ADVERTISERS Tap into an open and aware community by advertising your message in the Conscious Community Magazine Calendar and Lightworkers Directory listings. Display ads are due by the 10th of every month. Call Conscious Community Magazine or see website for advertising information. Distributed in Illinois and Wisconsin. Communities that share together, grow together. Together we go further than ever going alone. Please visit: www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com or call 847-966-1110.

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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! ARE YOU A MOVER AND A SHAKER? Are you an organized self-starter? Do you have a desire to help out, but you are not sure where your skills will be best suited? The Conscious Community family is looking for assistance in the following areas: Administration, Event Scheduling, Event Sponsorship, National Calendar Coordinator, IT Expertise or Conference Coordinator. Whether you can give one hour per month or  10 hours per month, we would love to have you  join our team. Please call 847-966-1110 or email Kasia at: Kasia@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com

Lightworkers Classified Directory

The Lightworkers Classified Directory provides listings of a wide variety of practitioners, products and services available to our readers. Lightworkers listings are $1.00 per word with a 25 word minimum. Display ads are due by the 10th of every month. Copy may be submitted by email or regular mail. Check or credit card information must accompany your submission unless you are submitting it by email. In that case, please call with your credit card information to finalize your listing.

Please call: 847-966-1110 or send your listings to: Kasia@ ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com by the 10th of the month prior to publication.

[HEARTh & HOME]

HOT INDIAN NIGHTS Chickpeas and Garlic by Janae Jean August in the Midwest is hot and humid. So, why not add some heat to our dinner plates as well? This month we have a plant-based meal inspired by the Indian Subcontinent. Indian food is known for its spicy flavors. This month’s masala-inspired dish is packed with heart healthy and anti-inflammatory spices, including turmeric and ginger. Chickpeas are a common ingredient in much of the world, and they becoming increasingly popular in North America. They are also known as garbanzo beans. As Americans demand less wheat and more protein, American farmers are planting between 79-86% more chickpeas. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamin B-6, magnesium and iron. Garlic is in season right now in the Midwest. Look for it at your favorite local outdoor market or produce section. Garlic has been used for centuries for its medical benefits, including possible antibiotic properties and the ability to prevent the common cold.

together. Add in water a little at a time to prevent lumps. Then let sit for 30 minutes, so that the flours and starches soak up the liquid. Stir in the garlic. Heat about a tablespoon of ghee to grease pan. Pour batter into the pan and cook as you would a breakfast pancake (about three to four minutes per side) until the bottom side is golden brown and crisp. Then flip the flatbread with a large pancake turner and cook for two or three minutes more until the other side browns. Remove from pan and slice into wedges to serve. Serve warm.

½ cup frozen peas

*Substitute olive oil to make it vegan.

VEGAN MANGO LASSI

VEGGIE MASALA

4 servings 1 cup chopped onion 1 cup chopped bell peppers 4 cloves of garlic, minced 1 13.5-ounce can full-fat coconut milk 1 10.75-ounce can tomato purée ¼ teaspoon ground ginger 1 tablespoon ground coriander 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin

Ghee or olive oil for cooking In a large pan, sauté the garlic, onion and

pepper in about a tablespoon of olive oil or ghee. Blend the salt, pepper and spices together in a small bowl. Then add them to the garlic, onion and pepper. In a bowl, mix the coconut milk and tomato purée together. Add the liquid to the pan and bring to a boil. Turn down and add the chickpeas, potatoes, carrots and peas. Then set it to simmer for about 30 minutes. Serve with basmati rice and chickpea flatbread. 4 servings 2 cups plain coconut yogurt 2 cups 100% mango juice Cardamom

Blend them together. Pour into glasses and sprinkle Cardamom on top. Serve chilled. Food Facts and Souces: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/ money/agriculture/2017/08/28/wheattrend-less-being-grown/607433001/

GARLIC-CHICKPEA FLATBREAD

½ teaspoon ground cardamom

Makes one flatbread

¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

https://www.farmflavor.com/illinois/whatsseason-illinois-produce-calendar/

1 cup chickpea flour

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/

¼ cup brown rice flour

1 teaspoon ground paprika

¼ cup cornstarch

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 cup water

¼ teaspoon chili powder

1 ½ tablespoons melted ghee (plus more for cooking)*

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon salt

1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

1 garlic clove, minced

1 15-ounce can potatoes, sliced, rinsed and drained

Whisk chickpea flour, brown rice flour, cornstarch, melted ghee and salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

1 cup chopped carrots

Janae Jean serves as editor, social media manager and podcast co-host for Conscious Community Magazine. She enjoys improvising in the kitchen and creating recipes with her loved ones and is very grateful for their suggestions, feedback and help. She is also a music teacher and sound healer; visit www.perennialmusicandarts.com and www.janaejean.com. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM

[BOOK REVIEWS]

In Print Reviews by Kayla Hancock

The Seven Chakra Personality Types: Discover the Energetic Forces that Shape Your Life, Your Relationships, and Your Place in the World, by Shai Tubali (Conari Press, Paperback, $18.95) Many of us have learned about (or are familiar with) the energy centers in our bodies known as chakras. This book helps individuals figure out what their own unique chakra personality type is and how they can use that information to better their lives. Formed by one major chakra, one secondary chakra and one supporting chakra, the chakra personality type of each individual contains wisdom that allows for a deeper understanding of the self. Shai Tubali guides readers through the process of discovering their chakra personality and further shows how these personalities relate to patterns and habits in one’s own life.

Queen Up! Reclaim Your Crown When Life Knocks You Down: Unleash the Power of Your Inner Tarot Queen, by Angela Kaufman (Conari Press, Paperback, $15.95) The four Tarot Queens hold immense power. Angela Kaufman mixes a variety of metaphysical lessons and psychological perceptions to help women feel more empowered during challenging times. This book includes a year’s worth of exercises for working with the energies of the Four Queens to help readers fine-tune their intuitive and manifestation skills.

The Existentialist’s Survival Guide: How to Live Authentically in an Inauthentic Age, by Gordon Marino (HarperOne, Hardcover, $25.99) Living in the 21st century, we are no strangers to global crises. In fact, our own mood swings and personal dramas often feel like existential crises themselves. Gordon Marino offers practical advice to help readers navigate through this world—even when it seems like all odds are against us. From learning to deal with despair, angst and death to practicing love, Marino shares his own life-changing epiphanies to help more of us live lives of integrity during a chaotic time. 38

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AUGUST 2018

Animal Totems and the Gemstone Kingdom: Spiritual

Connections of Crystal Vibrations and Animal Medicine, by Margaret Ann Lembo (Findhorn Press, Paperback, $19.99) Did you know that many animals have matching gemstones with which they share an energetic connection? In this book, Margaret Ann Lembo shares the relationships between 88 different animal totems and 88 various gems, crystals and stones. Also, she offers various animal medicine teachings. She shows how we can use these relationships to improve our lives and provides a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between all things.

Astrology Considered:

A Thinking Person’s Guide (Astrology News Service; First edition, Paperback, $24.95) The study of astrology has been around since the beginning of time. This book challenges readers to reconsider what it could mean if both the full power and understanding of astrology was better applied by the inhabitants of the earth. There are 51 educational articles, news features and interviews included from the Astrology News Service archives to help readers find a greater appreciation for this subject.

Tiny Buddha’s Worry Journal:

A Creative Way to Let Go of Anxiety and Find Peace, by Lori Deschene (HarperOne, Hardcover, $21.99) This interactive journal contains prompts, quotes, doodle pages and more to help one cultivate a sense of inner peace. Lori Deschene focuses on three main themes, including Let it go, Plan Ahead, and Color and Draw Yourself Calm. The tools in this book allow for creative expression and offer a path to improved mood and a more present state of being. Kayla Hancock is grateful to be a part of this community. She is a Licensed Massage Therapist, Reiki Practitioner, and certified Deeksha giver who enjoys working alongside her angels and spirit guides to bring more love, joy and compassion into the world.

Featuring in-depth conversations with spiritual teachers, healers, authors, entrepreneurs, musicians, artists and leading minds of the Conscious Community.

This Month: Jacob Liberman, O.D., Ph.D., Sc.D. - Luminous Life Upcoming: Mikal Vega - Vital Warrior, Not-for-Profit Andrew Newman - Conscious Parenting Jonathan Robinson - MORE LOVE, Less Conflict: A Communication Playbook for Couples Past Guests: Matthew Dicks - “StoryWorthy” author Gary Jansen - “Life Everlasting” author

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