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Award Winning
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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
THE WISDOM OF YOUTH PART 2
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C O N S C I O U S N E S S
EAT TO SUPPORT
THYROID HEALTH
HUMBLE WARRIOR
INTERVIEW WITH SNATAM KAUR
8 BENEFITS OF YOGA
RECIPES INSPIRED BY
SOUTHERN FRANCE
FOR ALL AGES JUNE 2018
ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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Featuring in-depth conversations with spiritual teachers, healers, authors, entrepreneurs, musicians, artists and leading minds of the Conscious Community.
Candles: Zodiac Chakra Affirmation & Blessed Herbal Beeswax Stone Jewelry: Necklaces Pendants Rings Bracelets
This Month: Snatam Kaur - Beloved music album, and author of Original Light Gary Jansen - author of Life Everlasting Upcoming Mikal Vega - Vital Warrior Project Elizabeth Mattis Namgyel - The Logic of Faith Edward Espe Brown - author of No Recipe Past Guests: Gogo Ekhaya Esima - Crazywise documentary
The Power of Manifesting Your Goals You will learn, in this 5-day retreat, tools for developing your ability to have absolutely anything you could possibly ever desire. Diane Stilwell 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. Just bring your list of goals that you would love to achieve.
In 5 Days…
Diane Stilwell Course Leader
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. 3. Your mind will become focused, and you’ll feel a new sense of clarity and vision. 4. You may find that you’re becoming aware of your purpose, your reason for being. 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.
What You’ll Walk Away With… …You will be given full instructions and tools for achieving any goal you desire. You’ll learn how to interrupt that habit of wanting or desiring during your normal everyday life. Instantly, you’ll find yourself opening to the space of “havingness”; of revealing your true self, naturally. You will begin to manifest right away, during this course. 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. Cost: Deadline for Pre-registration Price of $697.00 is June 11, 2018. On June 12, 2018, price will be $747.00 Registration: Visit www.dianestilwell.global to register When & Where: June 20 – 24, 2018 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 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 160 E. Pearson Street Chicago, Illinois 60611 Note: You must have completed a Basic Releasing Course to attend.
Any questions, please call or text 312-952-7808.
THE BASIC RELEASING COURSE Have you ever wondered, “What’s in the way of my having a stress-free life, that’s easy and filled every moment with everything I’ve ever wanted?” Your answer could be reduced to one powerful, life-changing answer: THE ABILITY, IN THE MOMENT, TO LET GO.
RELEASING IS THE PROCESS, THE TOOL, OR THE “HOW TO…” …still the spinning mind. Learn to let go at will and notice the deep quiet peace, even on your busiest days. …find calmness in each moment. After you’ve learned to release, you’ll find yourself effortlessly mindful. Even when life causes you to lose it, releasing creates an instant path of return. …achieve your goals. Whether it’s arriving at your ideal weight, or letting go of any obstacles to a free flow of money, you’ll walk away with a solid process for achieving anything you desire.
Diane Stilwell Course Leader
healthy new ones. Using releasing, you’ll discover that your heart is able to give and receive love with a never-ending supply of joy and delight. …let go of addictions or unwanted habits. Learn to tap into an inherent power you never knew you had. …watch your stress dissolve. In doing so, you can address issues in your life with clarity and vision. Eliminating stress, according to the majority of health care professionals, will also remove a key contributing factor to most illnesses. Cost: $547.00 Registration: Visit www.dianestilwell.global to register When & Where: July 21, 22, 28, 2018
…let go of blocks to learning. Reshuffle your brain so it’s working at its optimum level.
The first two days are a Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 160 E. Pearson Street Chicago, Illinois 60611. The third day is the following Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm via conference call from your home, office, or cellphone.
…heal existing relationships and open yourself to
Any questions, please call or text 312-952-7808.
Contents
AMERICA’S OLDEST SPIRITUAL AND METAPHYSICAL MAGAZINE
10
FEATURES 10 HUMBLE WARRIOR
Interview with Snatam Kaur
by Janae Jean and Spencer Schluter
14 EAT TO SUPPORT
THYROID HEALTH
by Barbara Boules
20 SAVOR LIFE
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by Michael Peter Langevin
25 8 BENEFITS OF YOGA
FOR ALL AGES
by Raquel Jex Forsgren, Yoga Therapist, C-IAYT
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DEPARTMENTS 06 PUBLISHER’S LETTER Freedom in the Moment
Kasia Szumal
07 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS
June 2018
09 ASK ALECIA Community Q&A
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June 2018
12 ALL ABOUT TOWN The Wisdom of Our Youth
Part 2 - Emily Grudka by Theresa Puskar
JUNE 2018 VOLUME 39, NO.10
™
(Formerly The Monthly Aspectarian)
PUBLISHER KATARZYNA (KASIA) SZUMAL
26 COSMIC DAILY WEATHER In-Depth Astrology Perspectives
June 2018
by Tara Aal
29 HEARTH & HOME L’Été en Provence
Culinary Lavender and Raw Honey
by Janae Jean
CONNECTIONS 16 THE PULSE CALENDAR Events, Happenings and Announcements of Interest
June 2018
22 LIGHTWORKERS CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY Resources for Better Living
EDITORS JANAE JEAN ALMEN SUSAN PLUTO JULIE ROBERTS MEDIA COORDINATORS JANAE JEAN ALMEN KAYLA HANCOCK SPENCER SCHLUTER ART DIRECTOR/WEBMASTER JODY LEVITAN ADVERTISING INQUIRIES ANNA ANTHONY Anna@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com 630.465.8441 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
30 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 Happy Father’s Day
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
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER
FREEDOM IN THE MOMENT W
hen I was a kid I remember having so much freedom in my life. After I was done with dinner and homework, I would play outside with other kids until sundown. We were chefs, firemen, police officers and baseball players. Our imagination was endless. Besides setting time aside for play, I took care of animals at school and helped other students with their math problems. I did not watch TV or play video games, not because I did not have them, but because I felt that time spent with my friends after school was more important than sitting in front of the TV alone. I am telling you this story because it seems like today’s kids spent their time differently than I did when I was a kid. Watching my friends’ kids, I’ve noticed that they are very sensitive, aware, very open and wise with their answers. But, I’ve also noticed that they are living in a virtual world of constant stimulation with smartphones, computers and video games and that makes them less emotionally connected their friends or parents. When they finally get “unplugged” from technology for a moment, and they are in the “real world” of homework or housework, they feel angry or misunderstood. It seems like living in a virtual reality is now more appealing to them than being in their bodies and making face-to-face connections with other people.
KATARZYNA (KASIA) SZUMAL PUBLISHER
Last month’s school shooting in Texas made my heart cry. I started to ask myself, “Why this is happening right now? What is a message those kids want to tell us?” In this June issue, we are proud to have our second teenage poet of 2018, Emily Grudka, who gives her insights about what it’s like to be a teenager today and how important it is to implement mindfulness in schools. Summer begins this month; there is no better time than now to enjoy life’s simple pleasures like days at the lakefront or picnics with friends. See this month’s recipe, L’Été en Provence (Summer in Provence) for a French countryside menu that complements any summer day. Also, in this issue, you can read about the power of music, mantras, Kundalini Yoga and the importance of building a daily spiritual practice in Humble Warrior – Interview with Snatam Kaur. Nutritionist Barbie Boules shares the importance of good nutrition when we are dealing with low energy or thyroid diseases in Eat to Support Thyroid Health. I hope this June issue surprises and inspires you to live more consciously, and as this month’s contributor, Michael Peter Langevin encourages us all to do, to Savor Life. As always, check in to www.ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com regularly to see our latest content, including an all-new interview with noted spirituality author and editor, Gary Jansen who shares his deep insights on mysticism and spirituality and much more. Happy Father’s Day! The Best,
Kasia Szumal
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COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS
Soulful Relationships Retreat Friday, June 8, 6:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m., Saturday, June 9, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday, June 10, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. The Soulful Relationships Retreat will help you transform your relationships, so that they can actually work! It will lead you into your heart in graceful and nurturing ways, as it supports you to identify and transcend personal obstacles to love and break patterns of unsuccessful relationships.
Art Exhibit at Divine Creative Synergy Friday, June 1, 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Divine Creative Synergy will open an art exhibit featuring several local artists and showcasing a variety of paintings, photography and digital art. The exhibit includes a wide range of artistry by Kara Maxwell, Natalia Palomino, Roger Oney, Ariana Squires, Elizabeth Tuckwell and Caroline Tye. Divine Creative Synergy recently celebrated its one-year anniversary in Evanston; a place offering Reiki Sessions, Aromatherapy Consultations, Workshops, Meditation Mornings as well as hosting art openings several times throughout the year. Come in for a visit on June 1 for the open house and view artwork by talented artists; this is a free event! Divine Creative Synergy accepts exhibition proposals on an ongoing basis; shows feature several artists or are community-curated.
Location: Irvington Wellness Center, 17 N. Layman Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46219. Call 877-773-7557; or visit http://soulfulpower.com/offerings/retreats/relationship-guidance-indy. Cost: $630
Location: Divine Creative Synergy, 707 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL 60202. Call 312-391-8740; or visit www.DivineCreativeSynergy. com for more information on this event or upcoming workshops. Cost: Free
CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS
The Power of Manifesting Your Goals Wednesday, June 20, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday, June 21, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Friday, June 22, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday, June 23, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, June 24, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. In this 5-day retreat, you will learn tools for developing your ability to have absolutely anything you could possibly ever desire. 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.” Just bring your list of goals that you would love to achieve. Why not celebrate the summer by having, living and being your dreams? In 5 Days • You’ll not only learn to have everything you’ve truly ever wanted; you’ll learn the “how to” in having them ALWAYS. • You will become more centered. Everything will begin to come to you, instead of you chasing everything. • Your mind will become focused, and you’ll feel a new sense of clarity and vision. • You may find that you’re becoming aware of your purpose, your reason for being. • You’ll feel the abundance of a world wanting to “give to you”. • You’ll “know” that happiness and contentedness is who you really are. Location: Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 160 E. Pearson Street Chicago, IL 60611. Call 312-951-6560 (please ask for Fernanda, Diane’s assistant); or visit www.dianestilwell.global. Cost: Deadline for pre-registration price of $697 is June 11, 2018. On June 12, 2018, price will be $747.
14th Annual Celebration
The World of Faeries Festival
Celebration of the Feminine Spirit Saturday, August 4, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday, August 5, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 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 one-of-a-kind handcrafted wares in our vendor village under the ancient oaks of Vasa Park. Many travel extensively and 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, five 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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[COMMUNITY Q&A]
A. Dear Agitated and Annoyed,
ASK ALECIA by Alecia Rice
Q. Our friend will be our houseguest for several days. We look forward to her arrival, yet in the past, some houseguest visits didn’t go so well. What can we do to make her stay comfortable for everyone? — Anxious Hosts
A. Dear Anxious Hosts, If you’re trying to live a conscious, peaceful life with less drama, one of the keys is to give it some much-deserved forethought to attempt to steer clear of as many unexpected issues as possible. This smooths the path with good communication in advance in ways that aren’t quite as easy once your guest enters your home. First, sit down with your spouse to discuss what their needs are during the stay. Once you are both unified in needs and expectations, you’ll want to have a clear, neutral conversation with your guest before she arrives. Doing so sets the tone in advance so that everyone knows what to expect during her stay. Summer is coming, and for many, that means guests. Here are some suggestions: Arrival/Departure – Ensure that you are all in agreement as to arrival and departure dates. Sometimes people are having such a great time, they want to extend their trip. This puts you in the driver’s seat to deny the extension, if it’s not convenient, or extend the date if you’re enjoying it just as much. Meals – Will you be cooking or going out to eat? What are expectations to pay for food? Ask about special dietary needs. Would you prefer to play host or would
you prefer for them to make themselves at home and meet their own needs? Entertainment – What does your guest expect to do while there? Who will pay for the entertainment? Allergies – Are they allergic to your pets or certain foods? Sleeping accommodations – Will they have a private bedroom/bathroom? Will they sleep in a bed, on a couch or on an air mattress? Your daily rituals – Are you an early/ late riser who requires downtime to prepare for your day/bedtime, such as meditating or doing yoga? Do you need silent time before you engage your guest? Are you an introvert who needs to retire early to recharge from the day? Forethought on these issues with good discussion up front honors all involved and can definitely bring clarity to both parties. Sometimes these conversations can throw up red flags that will allow you to hash out the details before your guest arrives. For example, if they have pet allergies, that may end up being a no-go ahead of time, which is better than finding out once she gets there which can make it unpleasant for everyone. This is just one small example of good communication and conscious living which can ultimately lead to less stress and conflict in life. Q. I see double standards everywhere I look which annoys me. I hate remaining agitated. How do I change? — Agitated and Annoyed
Hypocrisy is irritating to most. Unfortunately, we have no control over it, but we can choose how we react and feel about it. When things irritate us about others, that’s more of our own problem than it is theirs because it’s our inner peace that gets stirred up, not theirs. Managing our thoughts and feelings is our responsibility, not someone else’s. This is where consciousness can be applied to our reactions. Our ultimate goal is to work towards managing our energy and remaining in inner calm. Once one has mastered their thoughts, reactions and feelings, regardless of what’s happening outside themselves, they’ve learned to nurture a sense of inner peace, freedom and control. We live in a world of duality and triggers abound. Hypocrisy shows up more clearly than it ever has in recent history. Although many people are quite pained about the state of the times we live in, I don’t necessarily see these times as negative. In my world, there is a silver lining to every dark cloud. I know that human tendency is to stay complacent when things are comfortable. I also know that many people won’t change and are quite resistant to it until they are so uncomfortable that they’re forced to. Change means growth and expansion and is often a challenging experience. This is the perfect time to take the many challenges we’re surrounded by and reflect on ourselves from the inside, seeking a higher perspective, as this offers us the opportunity to raise our vibration and make lemons into lemonade. Make a conscious choice to make life sweet, regardless of what’s happening externally. 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 personal issues, you’re invited to text questions and comments to 681-321-1109. Discussions continue at Ask Alecia on Facebook. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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Humble Warrior Interview with Snatam Kaur by Janae Jean and Spencer Schluter
For this installment, we had the pleasure to interview renowned vocalist, workshop leader, peace activist and author, Snatam Kaur. Kaur was raised in the Sikh and Kundalini Yoga tradition. She has released more than 20 recordings and published three books. Her well-received book, Original Light: The Morning Practice of Kundalini Yoga, was released in 2016 and guides readers to creating their own daily spiritual practice to bring about long-lasting transformation. Her latest musical release, Beloved, features eight sacred chants and songs. We spoke with her about Kundalini Yoga, the Sikh faith, building a personal spiritual practice, the power of music, overcoming bigotry and more. 10
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The following is only a brief adaptation of our conversation. To listen to the entire interview, visit www. ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com. Subscribe to us on iTunes, GooglePlay, Stitcher, TuneIn and YouTube. Janae: Why did you decide to write a book now? Have people in the audience been coming to Kundalini Yoga through your music? Did people want to know more about this practice? Snatam: The music I do has roots in the Sikh tradition and also the Kundalini Yoga tradition. About four years ago, I decided to write a book about my daily practice and about yoga and meditation. As I was out there sharing music and sharing these teachings and doing a lot of workshops for people, I realized
that the important thing for real transformation, real long-lasting transformation, is having a daily spiritual practice. People needed to be empowered to have their own practice and know how to cope and deal with life’s challenges in the moment. So, I set out to write this book. It took me a couple of years, but it’s one of the most fulfilling things that I’ve done so far, in this life anyway, to share with people. JJ: For people who may not be familiar, could you explain what makes Kundalini Yoga different than doing Vinyasa or Hatha Yoga? SK: Kundalini Yoga is often called “Singing Yoga” and “Householder’s Yoga.” It is a yoga that incorporates a lot of chanting, a lot of singing. Often
people who have a fear of chanting, actually will come in and start practicing Kundalini Yoga and become able to really open their voice because there’s so much singing and music involved. There are movements and breath-work, sometimes vigorous and sometimes silent. It’s a very well-rounded yoga practice that one can do to stay physically healthy and in shape. Also, it has a mental-spiritual component which comes into the householder’s realm of things, giving people tools to cope with daily life, stress, relationships and mental-emotional patterns that aren’t serving them any longer. It works in a direct, beautiful way. People are holding the postures themselves, engaging in the exercises themselves and the meditations and the chanting. Through this process of holding the postures and doing the practice, it has a very healing effect. That’s a bit about Kundalini yoga, and it works with the energy of the spine. That’s why it’s called “Kundalini.” The Kundalini is an energy that exists within everybody. It has healing effects on the physical, emotional and spiritual levels when it rises up the spine. But, it can only do that when a person comes into a neutral zone or calm state. So, the Kundalini Yoga works to bring a person to that calm state. It has to happen from not just a very calm state, but also humble, a place of humility. Spencer: What is the connection with Sikhism? Could you explain just a little bit about what Sikhism is and where it comes from? SK: Sure. People, listeners, who are familiar with me see that I wear a turban. In my concerts, I share a lot of chants that come from the Sikh tradition. Within Kundalini Yoga itself, there are a number of chants that come from the Sikh religion. Kundalini Yoga was brought to the West by Yogi Bhajan, the master of Kundalini Yoga, in 1969. Kundalini Yoga is for people of all traditions, people from all walks of life. Because Yogi Bhajan was a devout Sikh, there are universal concepts that come from the Sikh tradition and that are integrated within Kundalini Yoga practice. Many of the mantras and chants are integrated. For me as well,
as a musician, I share chants from the Sikh tradition and just watch and see how powerful they are for people. So, as a musician, I open the doors of this faith to share with people of all traditions. The same goes for Kundalini Yoga. That was the premise of the faith in the beginning from Guru Nanak, the founder of the tradition, that all traditions have access to the divine. There’s no one better or worse way, but it’s about how we apply ourselves in our consciousness and our presence of mind. That’s perhaps the greatest focus of this Kundalini Yoga practice to get into that state of consciousness or state of presence in day-to-day life. JJ: Do you feel the act of singing itself is healing? SK: There’s no doubt about it. You can shift your energy in just the act of singing alone. Of course, to bring in these sacred words and sacred vibrations allows you to embark onto an energy field that’s really powerful. I look at these sacred chants as energy fields that have existed since the very inception, the very first time that they were sung by some human form who had the wisdom, the intelligence and humility to sing these words.
with almost super-human powers. This is the story I really like to share about Sikhs! [Laughs.] Janae Jean serves as editor, social media manager and podcaster for Conscious Community Magazine. She has an extensive background in new media and music education. Janae is actively researching using electronically generated sounds for healing. 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.
SS: I have a martial arts background and that’s what got me interested in Sikhism. Can you explain how they are related? SK: That’s an important part of Sikh history and life, that we are warriors. We have a martial practice called “Gatka.” The tenth master, Guru Gobind Singh, of the Sikh tradition was an incredible warrior. He talks about how his soul was in his previous lifetime … there’s this beautiful poem where he talks about this. He said he as a yogi meditating in the Himalayas and that the divine came to him and asked him to incarnate into this warrior form. And, he accepted, and he came into this life. He took up the sword and trained people in the martial art of Gatka. Much of the training was based in sound and these sacred rhythms. They would go into battle with this sacred sound current at their heels and in their hearts and fight CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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[ALL ABOUT TOWN]
THE WISDOM OF OUR YOUTH PART 2
EmiIy Grudka
Westmont High School - May 14th, 2018 by Theresa Puskar Today’s teens are exposed to so much more than we were at their age. Due to the incessant deluge of videos showing horrific world events on the news and social media, along with the polarization of our politics and the increased incidents of violence in the schools and other influences, they experience a greater sense of hopeless and stress as they try to stay afloat in a greasy cesspool of pain and fear. Yet, I note that many of them are so much more selfaware than I was at their age. As I mentioned in my February article, I spent this past year substitute teaching kindergarteners to high school seniors. It has been a fascinating journey, and for the most part, I have thoroughly enjoyed it. As the school year comes to an end, I reflect upon it with great introspection and awe. When I think of my life
Theresa Puskar and Emily Grudka 12
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during my own tender school years, I remember so much. It’s funny how as I age I can’t remember what I had for breakfast, but I can remember every detail of my childhood experiences! The most intense display of fear I witnessed back then happened on my first day of school. As I entered the kindergarten classroom, I recall watching a boy clutching onto the classroom door handle as if he were holding on for dear life. He was screaming in terror, exposing all of his resistance to entering the portal into the new world of independence. I also recall running out of my third-grade classroom in tears, as I watched the class bully tear a fellow student into shameful bits with his emotional abuse – the cruelty was overwhelming! Fast forward to high school, where we played euchre and had food fights during lunch hour. The greatest horror I remember was being completely grossed out by the unexpected chunk of tuna fish salad that I bit into as I finished off my home-baked oatmeal cookie after a food fight. We had the occasional unobtrusive school fire drill. They were a mere nuisance, but there were no intruder drills, no lockdowns and no impending fear of someone letting loose during lunch break with an assault rifle. Life seems so much more burdensome these days. One of the programs that the schools
have to promote a greater sense of community, security and encouragement is Snowball. This program starts in grade school and is continued through to high school. It was the inspiration behind this month’s writer, Emily Grudka. She wrote her poignant and powerful poem, The Wrong Decision, after attending an Operation Snowball weekend retreat with her classmates. When I asked whether she had faced teen suicide firsthand, she and her girlfriend turned and looked into each other’s eyes; the subtext which read, “You have no idea, lady!” I didn’t push the discussion further, but I see that the threat of teen suicide has vastly increased. I really love Emily’s poem, as she reminds those who might be considering suicide that their lives do, in fact, matter:
THE WRONG DECISION By Emily Grudka Don’t tell me that if you killed yourself Nobody would miss you. My world would never be the same, Even if you say countless times that it would. Don’t tell me that your mother Would not come home from work every day crying her eyes out. Because she knows you’ll never come home from school. Wishing she took you home from the
hospital instead of the local cemetery. Don’t tell me your father Wouldn’t work night shifts and long hours To get his mind off the fact you’re gone forever. He will try to comfort your mother but nothing will ease the pain. Don’t tell me your friends Wouldn’t stay up every single night hating themselves. And for never knowing that you were suffering all this time and they never noticed. When they hear about your death at school, all eyes will be on them. Don’t tell me your sister Wouldn’t tear up every time she sat at the dinner table Knowing that you’ll never be there again sitting in your usual spot. Or wake up every morning upset because you won’t fight about who showers first. Don’t tell me your brother Wouldn’t be able to focus in class. He would get even worse grades Because he thought you were the smart sibling. Even if you think you don’t matter There will always be someone there to support you. So, don’t tell me the earth would still rotate if you were gone. You’re worth it.
their lives. Many of these teens were considered “problem” students, and yet, as I spoke with them, I noted a candor, honesty and self-reflection that was inspiring among many of them. Those of us who work in the media have a responsibility towards our youth and their future. I believe we are currently failing them! What I have noted for several years is that fear sells, and because it does, the public is bombarded with it. Whether it be the news, social media, television or movies, so much of the messages today are based on the negativity that exists in the world. So many movies are about a potential Armageddon. Recently I viewed two of the latest box office “super-hero” hits, The Black Panther and Avengers: Infinity War. This is not a genre I am terribly interested in, but I acquiesced to the desires of my family. As I sat and watched, I looked at the movies from a sociological perspective. I asked myself, “Why is America hungry for this type of movie? In it, the world is falling apart and superheroes use their superpowers to save the day.” As I reflected on youth and their sense of anxiety and hopelessness, I hypothesize that these movies provide them with a sense of hope. Then I wondered, “Do they believe that it takes super-human powers to overcome the obstacles they
face in the world today? If so, will they be able to find that power within themselves?” From what I’ve seen this past year, I have faith in them. In my sessions, I encourage them to focus on what brings them joy. I take them through exercises in which they see themselves as the heroes in their own epic life journeys, acknowledging themselves for what they have already overcome. I am excited that they will have the right to vote in the next election, and I find many of them to be exceptional individuals. Perhaps they are the superheroes we have all been waiting for. Theresa Puskar is an author, performer, minister, inspirational speaker 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 focuses on a variety of emotional and social development issues for children, ages five to nine. She has received accolades for her recent 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 life-affirming. Visit www.TheresaPuskar.com.
Thank you for your insights and for reaching out to those who may be considering suicide, Emily. Your heartfelt beaconing may just save some lives! In response to the anxiety that I have noted among the high school students, I started a program to support them. Each week we met to discuss the stressors in their lives, along with tools they can use to integrate meditation, visualization and calming techniques into their routine. I have been most impressed with the students who have spent time with me, especially those who were serving detentions. I started each session, asking the students what the “tensions” were at the root of their detention, and how I could support them to “de-tense” CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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EAT TO SUPPORT THYROID HEALTH by Barbara Boules Keeping your thyroid running smoothly is essential to good health. This small butterfly shaped gland that sits at the base of your neck is one of your body’s hardest working parts. All day long, it produces hormones that play a role in virtually every human function, particularly metabolism, digestion, body temperature and heart rate.
may experience weight loss, diarrhea, feeling too warm, rapid heartbeat, fatigue, brain fog and muscle weakness. Goiter (an enlarged thyroid gland) can be a complication of both under and overactive thyroid. Medical interventions for hyperthyroidism include medications, surgery or radioactive iodine, which can lead to hypothyroidism.
This is why when thyroid dysfunction develops we can experience a host of uncomfortable symptoms. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) occurs in about 12 to 17 percent of the population - mostly women, beginning in middle age. Hypothyroidism is often secondary to Hashimoto’s Disease, an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks the thyroid gland, rendering it unable to function properly. Symptoms include weight gain, difficulty losing weight, constipation, feeling cold, fatigue, dry skin and hair, difficulty concentrating and joint pain. Most people respond very well to a low dose of Levothyroxine. If you’re taking this medication, be sure to take one to two hours prior to eating, as food interferes with its absorption.
The cause of thyroid dysfunction is not entirely understood, but autoimmune disease, genetics, stress and diet can all have an effect. The good news is that both types of thyroid disorder respond well to a healthy diet and lifestyle. So, let’s look at how we can best support this little workhorse.
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) is frequently a result of Grave’s Disease, an autoimmune disorder that leads to the production of too much thyroid hormone. If your thyroid is overly stimulated you 14
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SUPPORTIVE FOODS Iodine Thyroid hormones are made up of iodine, a mineral largely found in the ocean. A deficiency throws it off balance. When deficiency was prevalent in the 1920s, salt manufacturers began adding it to their products. Most of the salt we consume today is not iodized, switching to a brand that is may be wise if you have thyroid dysfunction. However, we don’t want to exceed 2400 mg of sodium (one teaspoon salt) daily. And It’s also just as problematic to get too much iodine, which can happen if we overdo the salt.
Let’s consider other sources. Seafood and seaweed are two great food sources of iodine. The daily recommendation is 150 mcg (the amount in two sheets of nori, or a half teaspoon of dulse flakes.) Three ounces of shrimp contains about 25 percent of daily needs, and one cup of Greek yogurt, 50 percent. Eden brand adds a bit of kelp to their beans – not enough to taste, but enough to provide between 33 and 75 percent of daily needs in one half of a cup, depending on the variety of bean.
Selenium The highest concentration of selenium in the body is located in the thyroid. Studies have shown a lower incidence of goiter and thyroid damage in participants who consumed an adequate amount of this nutrient. Ideally, we’re getting 55 mcg a day. Our richest sources of selenium include tuna, halibut, eggs, lean chicken and beef. But, nothing outshines the Brazil nut. Believe it or not, you can get all the selenium you need for a day from just one!
Zinc Zinc plays a key role in helping the thyroid do its work. Too little can contribute to hypothyroidism, and hypothyroidism can lead to a zinc deficiency because thyroid hormones help you absorb the
mineral. Men need 11 mg, and women 8 mg per day. Foods rich in zinc include legumes, nuts, seeds, lean chicken and beef. Three ounces of crab contain 50 percent of daily needs, and lobster provides 25 percent. Other good sources are nuts, yogurt and lean meats.
Vitamin D Some studies show a link between Hashimoto’s and a vitamin D deficiency. Plus, hyperthyroidism can contribute to bone loss – another reason to be sure you’re getting enough bone-building vitamin D. Recommendations state that we need 600 IU daily. But, recent research recommends 1,000 IU, which is difficult to get from foods. Ask your doctor if you decide to supplement. Swordfish and salmon are excellent sources, as are fortified dairy products and orange juice. Ample sunlight activates our skin to produce vitamin D, but many of us don’t live in locations that are sunny year-round. With concerns about skin cancer, we are better off looking to food.
Fiber Hypothyroidism can elevate cholesterol, so fiber is your friend. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, beans and legumes will provide both insoluble fiber (the type that sweeps your colon) and soluble fiber (the type that lowers cholesterol.)
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY FOODS Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, almonds and walnuts and monounsaturated fats in olive and avocado oils are two great ways to reduce systemic inflammation. Additionally, work on fitting in goodies like berries; sweet potatoes and dark chocolate, as well as flavor bombs including garlic, ginger and turmeric.
NOT SUPPORTIVE FOODS Soy Some research shows that the isoflavones in soy can lower thyroid hormone synthesis. However, this is usually not a problem if iodine is adequate. Choose fermented soy products like tofu, miso or edamame. Avoid soy protein isolate, the highly refined form of soy found in processed foods.
Wheat While gluten is not the cause of thyroid disorder, some people have shown benefit from a gluten-free diet. Just try to eat foods that are naturally free of gluten like those listed above. Unless you have celiac disease, be mindful that gluten-free crackers, cookies, bread and cupcakes are not any more healthful than those made with wheat, barley or rye. Oats should be labeled certified gluten-free because cross contamination could be an issue.
PROCESSED AND FAST FOODS Don’t go for fortified foods to up your iodine game. Along with it you’ll be getting way too much sodium, sugar, unhealthy saturated and trans fats, artificial ingredients and preservatives.
THE BOTTOM LINE Symptoms of an over-functioning or under functioning thyroid are often the
result of issues including lack of sleep and poorly managed stress. If you feel that you have these wellness concerns under control, and you’re still suffering, a visit to your doctor for a simple blood test might be in order. Don’t selfdiagnose. Do your due diligence and explore your options. In the meantime, get your beauty rest, daily movement and – as always – vitamins, minerals, fiber, phytonutrients and hydration powered by a rainbow, plant-based diet. 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 antiinflammatory and pro-gut health foods. You can reach her at 312-607-6689.
Lama Sura Das
Receiving Spiritual Transmission Open to spiritual sight and experience ways to heal with ritual and ceremony. Weekend Retreat: June 23-24
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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24 • THE POWER OF MANIFESTING YOUR GOALS - Chicago • WOMEN’S SUMMER SOLSTICE CHAKRA RETREAT - West Bend, WI • MATA AMRITANANDAMAYI, THE HUMANITARIAN AND SPIRITUAL LEADER - Elburn
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• THE POWER OF MANIFESTING YOUR GOALS - Chicago • WOMEN’S SUMMER SOLSTICE CHAKRA RETREAT - West Bend, WI • LIFE HAPPENS…I AM HUMAN HEAR ME ROAR - Lombard 6-Week Series: 6/23 - 8/11 • ACCESSING KNOWLEDGE THROUGH INTUITION - Oak Park
30 6-Week Series: 6/23 - 8/11 • ACCESSING KNOWLEDGE THROUGH INTUITION - Oak Park • AUDIOPHARMACOLOGY® GONG & SOUND MEDITATION - Oak Lawn
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Midwest Pulse Calendar Friday, June 1 ART EXHIBIT at DIVINE CREATIVE SYNERGY: 6:30-9:30 pm. Free. Art opening! View artwork by local artists & enjoy refreshments! Location: Divine Creative Synergy, 707 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60202 Contact: 312-3918740 or www.DivineCreativeSynergy.com
Sunday, June 3 8 POWERFUL SECRETS OF ANTIAGING! 1-4 pm. $10 admission towards food and drink. Natural, simple and effective treatments for 2018 & beyond! (part 2). Dr. K (Kolodziej) continues his popular lecture series with the latest scientific and technological breakthroughs in Anti-aging. How to slow down and possibly reverse the aging process. How to boost the hormones that control aging and what ancient herbs, teas and supplements keep body and mind young and strong. The Art Gallery Café, 127 Front Street, Wooddale, IL. 773-589-9996. For a full syllabus, email drleon1@earthlink.net
Friday-Sunday, June 8-10 SOULFUL RELATIONSHIPS RETREAT Friday: 6:30-10:30 pm. Saturday & Sunday: 11 am – 7 pm. Price: $630. The Soulful Relationships retreat will help you transform your relationship to relationships such that they can actually work! It will lead you into your heart in graceful and nurturing ways, as it supports your ability to identify and transcend personal obstacles to love, and break patterns of unsuccessful relationships. Location: Irvington Wellness Center,17 N. Layman Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46219. Phone: 877-773-7557. Website: http://www. soulfulpower.com/offerings/retreats/ relationship-guidance-indy/
Saturday, June 9 ANXIETY RELIEF WITH EFT: 1-2 pm. $25. Do you suffer from anxiety or stress? Are you overwhelmed and tired of feeling 18
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anxious? Learn how to release your anxiety within minutes without medication. 9501 S. New England Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453. www.journeytowholeness.org, 708-634-3664 CHICAGO IANDS, support/study/resource forum for near-death, out-of-body, & spiritual experiences, losses. 2-5 pm. Donation: $20. Guest Speaker: DAVID YOUNG, Music for Healing and Meditation, Two Grammy Nominations, Gifted Flutist and Visual Artist. Experience a portal between heaven and earth…a true outof-body experience! Frank Auditorium in Evanston Hospital. Free covered parking. For more info: 847-251-5758 or http://www.chicagoiands.org
Monday, June 11 EFT WORKSHOP (TAPPING). 6:308:30 pm. Free. Release of grief, PTSD, digestion issues, etc. Free Bemer sessions. Insight Awareness, 18110 S. Martin Ave. Homewood, IL 60430. Tom Masbaum, 708-955-3634. EFTwithTOM@ gmail.com or www.EFT-Tom.com
Thursday, June 14 EFT WORKSHOP (TAPPING). 7-9 pm. Free. Release of grief, PTSD, digestion issues, etc. Free Bemer sessions. Garrett Wellness, 3020 N. Kimball, Chicago, IL 60618. Tom Masbaum, 708-955-3634. EFTwithTOM@gmail.com or www.EFT-Tom.com
Friday, June 15 BOOK LAUNCH EVENT - THE HEARTFULNESS WAY - book signing. 7 pm. The Heartfulness Way is the heart-based meditation for spiritual transformations. Organized by Chicago Heartfulness Center, 350 W 22nd St, Lombard, IL 60148. Location: Anderson’s Bookshop, 123 W Jefferson Ave., Naperville, IL 60540. Please visit http://www.theheartfulnessway.com/ us/ to order this book. For more
information, call: 630-328-3929 or visit https://www.chicagoheartfulness.org
Saturday, June 16 NEUROLINGUISTIC PROGRAMMING (NLP) BASIC TRAINING. 9:30 am - 4 pm. $195. Christina Matthews teaches you how to reframe limiting beliefs, create and set achievable goals, increase confidence and more. Equilibrium Energy + Education, 850 S. Wabash, Suite 300, Chicago. Registration required, call 312-786-1882. www.equilibrium-e3.com
Wednesday, June 20 MOVING GROOVING DANCE MEDITATION - 6:30-7:15 pm. $20. Peggy Boyer guides you in ecstatic dance. Equilibrium Energy + Education, 850 S. Wabash, Suite 300, Chicago. Registration required, call 312-786-1882. www.equilibrium-e3.com
Wednesday-Sunday June 20-24 THE POWER OF MANIFESTING YOUR GOALS - First day: 2-5 pm. All other days: 10 am – 5 pm. Pre-Registration price: $697 by June 11th; $747 thereafter. During this live 5-day retreat, you will discover how to create a powerful set of new goals as you blast through any lingering limited beliefs. Discover your path to “Havingness”, sweeping away all roadblocks as you go. You must have completed a Basic Releasing Course to attend. Location: Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 160 E. Pearson Street, Chicago, IL, 60611. For more information, call 312-951-6560 (Please ask for Fernanda, Diane’s assistant) or visit www.dianestilwell.global
Friday, June 22 FENG SHUI IN A DAY - 9:30-4:30. $135. This eye-opening class teaches information based on your front door; bringing opportunity, and life improvements. Personal floor plan analysis during class.
One Oakbrook Club Drive, B-101, Oak Brook, IL 60523. Contact: 630-279-8870, or lauriepawli@gmail.com or www.TheFengShuiSchoolOfChicago.com
free public programs. MA Center Chicago, 41W501 Keslinger Road, Elburn, IL 60119. 630-387-5077. email: chicago@macenters. org or visit www.amma.org/Chicago
Friday-Sunday, June 22-24
Monday, June 25
WOMEN’S SUMMER SOLSTICE CHAKRA RETREAT - Women’s intensive healing weekend in a peaceful country setting. Chakra healing, psychic medium, reflexology, Thai Massage, Bodywork, yoga, meditation, tai chi, fire ceremony, nature trails. West Bend, WI. mindsoulandself@ yahoo.com; 608-393-7353; or https://www.mindsoulandself.com/ womens-wellness-retreats/
THE I CHING: LEARN THE ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS. 6:30-8 pm. $27. Laurie Pawli guides you in using this ancient, uncannily accurate divination tool. Chicago, IL. www.equilibrium-e3.com, 312-786-1882.
Saturday, June 23 LIFE HAPPENS…I AM HUMAN HEAR ME ROAR – 1-3 pm. $30.Join Medium Patty Horton and learn how to ignite the Spark of Light within you! The Gathering Lighthouse, 26 N. Park Ave., Lombard, IL 60148. 630417-7130. http://www.innereyeconnections. com/life-happens-workshop
Saturdays, 6-week Series: June 23 - August 11 ACCESSING KNOWLEDGE THROUGH INTUITION – A 6-week series on these Saturdays: June 23, 30, July 14, 21, August 4, August 11: 2-4:15 pm. $225 before June 9th; $250 thereafter. A 6-week series led by intuitive practitioners Barret Hedeen and Bhairavi Shera to guide you in accessing your True Inner Voice and activating your Divine Knowing! Ahimsa Yoga, 441 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302. 847-951-6328, www.BarretHedeen.com www.sheraspeaks.wordpress.com
Sunday-Tuesday June 24-26 MATA AMRITANANDAMAYI, THE HUMANITARIAN AND SPIRITUAL LEADER known throughout the world as Amma, visits the Chicagoland area. Experience a personal blessing (hug) from Amma, inspirational live music, meditation, spiritual discourse, healing arts, and great vegetarian food throughout three days of
Saturday, June 30 AUDIOPHARMACOLOGY® GONG & SOUND MEDITATION – 12-1:30 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. 9501 S. New England Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453. 708-634-3664. www.journeytowholeness.org
Sunday, July 15 HEALER/READER FAIR - 11 am – 5 pm. 10+ Readers, 3D Aura Photo, Crystal Light Bed, Reiki, Intuitive Readings. $20/15 minutes. Please bring cash for the readers. Academy of Spiritual Arts 6458 College Road, Lisle, IL 60532. www.dianakushenbach.com
Friday-Sunday, July 20-22 THE 40TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE OF THE US PSYCHOTRONICS ASSOCIATION. Explore the subtle realms underlying the material universe; bioenergy and the life force; the etheric body; the power of shape and sacred geometry; parapsychology; energy healing; directed intention; and action-at-a distance -all from a science or evidence-based perspective. 20 renowned speakers including authors and leading experts in frontier science. Visit the conference vendors offering innovative products, books, and services. Pre and Post conference workshops are available. Join us for this landmark event! Location: Hyatt Regency Deerfield, 1750 Lake Cook Rd, Deerfield, IL 60015. Early bird specials on www.eventbrite.com For more details: www.psychotronics.org
Saturday-Sunday, July 21-22 & Saturday, July 28 THE BASIC RELEASING COURSE Saturday and Sunday on-site: 10-5. Saturday, July 28: 10-4 via conference call from your home, office, or cellphone. $547. This course is the foundation and the crowning gem of all Releasing courses. In 3 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 Street, Chicago, IL 60611. For more information, call 312-951-6560 (Please ask for Fernanda, Diane’s assistant) or visit www.dianestilwell.global
Sunday, July 29 ROOT TO RISE YOGA FESTIVAL Presented by NEXT Yoga. 10-3. Sound OFF Yoga Class, Sound Healing Class, Acro Yoga Class, Aerial yoga, Slack Lining, Kids Soccer Clinic w/Chicago Red Stars, Health & Wellness market, and so much more! Location: The Morton Arboretum. 4100 Illinois 53, Lisle, IL 60532. Contact: casey@next-yoga.com More about event and buy your tickets: https://www.nextyoga.ticketleap.com/3rd-annual-root-torise-yoga-festival/
Thursdays, August 9-30 THE POWER OF MANIFESTING YOUR GOALS - JUMP START – Online Course: North & South America Calls: August 9, 16, 23, 30, 2018 5:30-7:30 pm PT/ 8:30-10:30 pm ET. European/Asia Calls: August 10, 17, 24, 31, 2018 5:30–7:30 pm GMT – London time (9:30–11:30 am PT). $197. In this online course you will discover how to create a powerful set of new goals as you blast through any lingering limited beliefs. Discover your path to “Havingness”, sweeping away all roadblocks as you go. You must have completed a Basic Releasing Course to attend. For more information, call 312-951-6560 (Please ask for Fernanda, Diane’s assistant) or visit www.dianestilwell.global
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 20 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
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Savor Life by Michael Peter Langevin
It has been said that there are two phases of life; one when you are busy living and the other when you realize you only have one life to live! Many of us realize life is short, and we want the rest of it from that moment forward to be packed with meaning, love and fun. How do we even start trying to achieve this? What if the best way to savor the rest of your life is to develop a different outlook? Most of us go through life accepting only the material world we perceive with our five senses and what we have been taught by our families and society to be real. What if there is much more to reality than we ever imagined? By learning to shift our perspective, we can greatly enhance how we perceive life in a positive way. We can even create an expanded reality. Where would you start this process of developing a different overview? Entertaining the idea that there is more than the material world is a great starting place. Let’s begin by looking at some of the big issues. Can you accept the idea that we are more than our physical bodies? Anyone who believes in a soul or near death experience has already accepted this premise. The next step is to believe that part of us exists beyond the death of our physical body. All major religions teach this. So, if there is more to us than a physical body and we do exist in some form after death, can you then stretch to the idea that more exists in reality than our material world? If you can accept the above statements, could you then consider that the ways we have been taught to think, believe and live, have limited us to perceive but a very small part of a larger reality? Now to the big leap...What if you could change your reality just by thinking: What if I believed I am more than my physical body? What if I could see what’s beyond the material world? What if I could experience other realities? What would I see; what would I imagine; what would those realities be like? Now, what if you could accept that these are the lost keys hidden right in front of us all? That what we have the capacity to imagine already exists? That an expanded reality is just beyond our normal senses? You see, most of us have what I call the “Editor Mind,” what the Buddhists call the “Monkey Mind.” 20
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When we were growing up, most people important to us told us, “This is the way life is, and this is the way the world works.” Usually, we completely bought into this material world reality and made it our own. The times we happened to perceive something different from what we were taught we usually denied it because it did not fit into our accepted view of reality. We have created an “Editor Mind” or a “Monkey Mind” that edits out anything of reality that is different from what we have been taught. For example, when we think about those we love dying, we most likely fall into fear. We seldom rejoice in the possibility that they will be happier after death. If you are willing to admit that your way of perceiving the world has been very limited then play with saying, “What if I viewed reality differently? What if many of the things that are considered paranormal will eventually be proven scientifically and could be real now and at work in my life? Maybe the same is true even for things that today are called magic. What if I had an astral body and I could learn to travel with my consciousness in and out of my body? What if I could visit my dead friends and relatives? What if by simply focusing on my hopes and desires they will manifest?” The difference this can create from what we have been taught is frighteningly simple but worldview shattering. The possibilities for expanded living become limitless! I challenge you to say, “What if?” I bet once you do, you will learn more of what reality actually is and move far beyond the perceptual limits of contemporary mainstream society and adopt a different overview that will ultimately change your life for the better. So, are you ready to truly savor life? Test your limits and try out a different overview by simply asking, “What If?” Michael Peter Langevin is a freelance writer, lecturer, public relations consultant and personal trainer. He has traveled and studied with shamans, elders and spiritual teachers all over the world. Michael has authored three books, Spiritual Business, Secrets of the Ancient Incas, and Secrets of the Amazon Shamans.
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Lightworkers Classified Directory
AKASHIC RECORDS
ASTROLOGY
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
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
ANGEL CARD READER RHONDA BRUNETT INTUITIVE MEDIUM - Phone Readings. Contact: FB: Rhonda’s Tarot Readings; call 630-885-2128, www.rhondabrunett.com.
ANGELIC HEALING & CLEARING EMILY KAY performs Angel Healing and Crystal Therapy; works with Spiritual Response Therapy to clear blocks and negative programs in all facets of life. Offers Stress Release Coaching for experiencing a peaceful, joyful life. 847-732-3778, www.thehappyconnection.com.
ART CHANNEL CLAIRVOYANT VISIONARY DRAWINGS & CHANNELED MESSAGES FROM YOUR SPIRIT GUIDE. Past Lives, Passed Loved ones, Angels, & Galactic Starseed heritage. Re-connecting you to your unique creative light! Chicagoland/ World-wide via Skype. spiritsketches@gmail.com, 708-680-6297, http://www.SpiritSketches.com 22
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MICHAEL WHITCOMB has successfully guided and trained thousands of people on their paths of self-exploration. Psychic, Reiki Master Teacher, High Priest, Ritual Teacher, Astrologer, Crystal Grid Maker, Artist, Poet. “Like” Soul Empowerment on Facebook. To schedule a session, contact: 616-516-0194.
AYURVEDIC 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. 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.
BOOK & METAPHYSICAL STORES STYX AND STONZ, 1764 W. Algonquin Rd., Hoffman Estates, IL 60192. www.styxstonz.com 847-358-9975.
BOOTCAMP FOR COACHES DO COACHING • BE COACHED • OBSERVE COACHING - Master the art of coaching. Topics: Listening, questioning, feedback, behavioral coaching & coaching conversations. Attendees: High-potentials, solopreneurs, managers & fellows in-transition. When/ where: Sunday afternoons / Chicago, IL. 60613. Join at www.Meetup.com/CoachTraining.
DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS GOOD-N-GROWN™ IS A PROPRIETARY DIETARY SUPPLEMENT for support of digestive, joint and hormonal issues related to hot flashes/night sweats. Simply Pure Rx, 1607 Benson Ave, Evanston, IL 60201. To purchase, contact: info@hauteherbotique.com, www.goodngrown.com or 847-227-8020.
DIVINE CREATIVE SYNERGY 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. www.kerenvishny.com, 847-440-4468, Kvishny@mindbodynorthshore.com
ENERGY HEALING DIVINE CREATIVE SYNERGY. Diann Squires, CRMP, CRMT, CA. Reiki, Aromatherapy sessions by appointments. 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.
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.
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. carol.swanson@att.net, www.carol-swanson.com or 608-359-4720.
FENG SHUI
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.
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 www.TheFengShuiSchoolOfChicago.com 630-279-8870.
KATRINA TECMIRE - Certified Reiki Master/Registered Yoga Teacher offering Reiki, chakra balancing, private yoga & meditation. Location: Andersonville, Chicago. www.katrinatecmireyoga.com. yogikatrinatecmire@gmail.com. 734-625-7660.
HOLISTIC HEALING
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.
BRIGITA VAICIULYTE - 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: www.healinghands.name or 224-243-1513. KAREN MARZEC, ENERGY HEALER - Discover renewed 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. www.karenmarzec.com, 866-916-2348. SMITA SHAH, LAC, CNC, BA. 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-LONG LEARNING & PERSONAL GROWTH 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 practitioner and classroom rental. Free course guide. 1280 Old Skokie Rd., Highland Park, IL 60035. www. infinityfoundation.org, 847-831-8828.
NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCE CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR NEAR-DEATH STUDIES (IANDS)/ INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCES (ISEE), Support/study group/ resource/forum for spiritual experiences, near-death experiences, out-of-body experiences, losses, research. For more info: 847-251-5758, http://www.chicagoiands.org.
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. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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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.
PSYCHICS PSYCHIC OF CHICAGO solves all problems! 5 Generation Psychic specializes in reuniting 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.
PSYCHOTHERAPY 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.
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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 HEALING SPECIALIZING IN PROVIDING AND TEACHING - Shamanic Healing, Reiki, Mediumship, Intuition Development, Meditation, Drumming, Smudge Fans, and Access Consciousness Bars Practitioner. Kristina Nez Begay, Hozho’ Healing 6127 County Rd T (Manitowoc County) Whitelaw, WI 54247. hozhohealing@gmail.com, www.hozhohealing.com, 414-627-2761.
SHAMANIC PRACTITIONER 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.
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. www.dianakushenbach.com 630-269-0115.
TAI CHI/QI GONG
THE SPIRITUAL LEARNING CENTER (SLC) is here to offer you the opportunity to study with likeminded 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
TAROT - INTUITIVE COUNSELING
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DAVID ECKERT - Tai Chi/Qi Gong Improves: Immune System; Strengthens Bones; Balance; Memory; Nervous, Cardio-vascular, and Respiratory Systems and More! 815-530-5984.
JAN CEDERLUND, M. Msc, Ph.D. Private readings, parties and teaching. McHenry County and surrounding area. For appointments email: TarotByJan@aol.com or call: 815-482-2511.
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. Email: carol.swanson@att.net Cell: 608-359-4720, http://www.carol-swanson.com.
HELP WANTED
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 email Kasia at: Kasia@ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com or call 847-966-1110.
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 20 words 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 insertion 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.
nine-week study period compared to those that did not participate. Yoga’s benefits last a LIFETIME helping us feel better as we age.
8 BENEFITS OF YOGA FOR ALL AGES by Raquel Jex Forsgren, Yoga Therapist, C-IAYT The benefits of yoga are felt the FIRST time you do it. We go to yoga because we want to increase flexibility, strengthen and tone our muscles, alleviate stress and let go of our busy days. For some, it’s the only time we may get one hour to ourselves. In one 60-minute class, we have opened our chest muscles expanding our hearts, relieved tension in our necks, taken deeper and longer breaths and relaxed our minds. Clinical research published in several medical and holistic journals have demonstrated that, doing yoga as little as one or two times per week, has multiple physical, emotional, mental and physiological benefits for all ages. Yoga INCREASES energy in both our bodies and brains. The movements stimulate our metabolism and circulatory system, which sends more oxygen to our blood, which feeds our brains. When we have more energy, we move more, which increases a feeling of productivity, in turn producing feelings of satisfaction. Yoga IMPROVES sleep. Who isn’t sleep deprived in our “always-on” world? Yoga postures, the rhythmic movement of the breath and the relaxation that follows, lowers the stress hormones in our body and allows the body’s nervous system to reset and rebalance, improving the of quality of sleep. Yoga INCREASES strength and flexibility, including visibility of nice long lean muscles. What medicine has that side effect? The muscles and joints are strengthened, which not only prevents injuries as we age, but it can reverse existing injuries. Flexibility BALANCES the strength gained during specific
postures and will loosen and stretch tight muscles. Within even the first month, you’ll notice being able to reach further up than when you started and get closer to the toes you may be trying to touch. Yoga STIMULATES metabolism and helps to lose weight. In a study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, researchers reported that people with diabetes who did yoga three to six days per week for eight weeks, lost more weight and inches than those who walked for the same timeperiod. Yoga stimulates our metabolism through increased heart rate during challenging postures and lowers cortisol during the relaxation, reducing the storage of fat around our bellies. Yoga REDUCES suffering. Daily practice of yoga generates gratitude, creates an overall positive outlook on life and enhances our moods. Our willpower shifts our focus toward wellness rather than instant gratification, according to Larry Payne, Yoga Director at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. We begin to accept ourselves for doing the best we know how, which allows us to practice patience and compassion with others as they do the best THEY know how. Yoga CREATES calmness and REDUCES anxiety. Yoga boosts levels of GABA, a chemical in the brain that helps to calm the nerves. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine reported that women who participated in a 60-minute yoga class twice per week reported greater reductions in anxiety after the
Yoga PROVIDES significant cardiovascular benefits. It reduces blood pressure, plain and simple. A growing body of evidence demonstrates that after 12 weeks of weekly yoga, including the postures, breathing exercises and deep relaxation, people saw benefits. Yoga SHARPENS memory. You’ve probably experienced it. Forgetting where the keys are, inability to recall what we needed to do that afternoon. It all starts to happen as we age. In 2016, an International Review of Psychiatry reported that practicing yoga relaxation techniques for 30 minutes had immediate effects on brain function and performance. Read more about yoga and aging in the July issue. For me, yoga has been transformational. I started with only a physical practice to reduce stress from my 70-hour workweeks, stretch my tight hips from weekly plane travel and become long and lean. Then something else happened, I began to feel an inner calm that helped me manage daily stress and help me sleep. Through the postures and being guided through meditations, I uncovered the root of my suffering. I was able to look at those memories, betrayals and abandonments with a fresh perspective. Most of all, I learned how to love myself, see myself and embrace myself. I’ve learned how to just live, let go of control (as much as I can), handle life’s curveballs with elegance and do it all with exquisite intention. Raquel Jex Forsgren is a Certified Yoga Therapist, C-IAYT, a graduate from Soul Institute, certified by International Association of Yoga Therapists, has a Bachelor of Science in Biology and 25 years in pharmaceuticals. Raquel has been living yoga for over a decade. Raquel lives in Chicago. You can reach her at livingyogatherapy@gmail.com and follow her at @rbforsgren on Instagram. Visit www.livingyoga-therapy.com. Sources: Mind Body Green, 2017; Wanderlust.com, 2017; AARP, 2018; Yoga Journal, 2018; Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine; Alzheimers.Org. CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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COSMIC DAILY WEATHER June 2018 by Tara Aal
Overview Come out and play! In these final weeks of spring, many of us are excited about summer break and summer vacation. We associate summer with “easy living” and even the most hermit-like characters may crawl out of their shells for a bit of sunshine and family gatherings. Summer is associated with the Fire element, and its energy is passionate, enthusiastic, illuminating and joyful. Summer begins on the longest day of the year, giving us more time to enjoy life and each other. Amidst your activity, make sure to take time for rest in the shade – too much sun (and fiery energy) can burn you out. If we use this time to recharge our minds, bodies and creativity, we will retain amazing reserves of vitality and warmth to carry us through the fall and winter. Astrology is like a map 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 twelve signs, spending approximately two and one-half days in each sign. When we say the Moon is void-of-course, 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 a perfect opportunity to make room for what’s to come. If you want to know more, check out www.moontracks.com.
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Friday, June 1 Mercury/Mars trine makes it easy for words to fly in your head and out of your mouth. While the trine is generally a harmonious aspect, it also reflects flow without much effort on our part. It’s easy for our thoughts to become sharp, angry and anxious. Sometimes we need to stop the flow. Use this energy to reframe your self-talk and offer yourself kindness. Capricorn Moon VoC begins 10:37 p.m. until tomorrow.
Saturday, June 2 Venus/Neptune trine brings personal and unconditional love together in a beautiful vision of cooperation, inspiration, and emotional connection. Venus in Cancer needs to feel she belongs and Neptune in Pisces reminds us we always belong; we are always a part of Everything. Capricorn Moon VoC ends 5:06 p.m. when the Moon enters Aquarius.
Sunday, June 3 Moon/Mars come together today in the sign of Aquarius, fueling both our emotional reactions with unconventionality and the need to have it our way. The Mars in us is ready for a fight, and the Moon is very self-protective. What is the healthiest way you can be your own champion, meet your own needs and do it all with objectivity?
Monday, June 4 There are no exact aspects today, but Sun and Mercury are getting close! With our sense of purpose (Sun) and ability to reason and communicate (Mercury) infused with Gemini, check-in with the story you are creating and sharing with your life. Elvis Costello’s song “Every Day I Write the Book” is a good reminder that we are always creating our story as we go. Aquarius Moon VoC begins 12:10 a.m. until tomorrow.
Tuesday, June 5 Mercury/Sun conjunction is exact today. Be open to new ideas and perspectives about who you believe you are and who you want to be. Illuminating information is just waiting to be discovered. Aquarius Moon VoC ends 5:53 a.m. when the Moon enters Pisces.
Wednesday, June 6 Pisces Moon is contacting many planets today, so just allow yourself to feel without too much attachment to any of it. The Moon is waning – a wonderful time to surrender anything that no longer serves you, making room for what truly makes you feel good.
Thursday, June 7 Have you been putting up with too much or staying too long with something? Moon cozies up with asteroid goddess Astraea today. Astraea was the last of the immortals to withdraw from Earth. She wants things to come together but can stick around too long in the same place when it’s time to move on. Pisces Moon VoC begins 1:35 a.m. until 4:25 p.m. when the Moon enters Aries.
Friday, June 8 Aries Moon wants freedom and independence and Saturn in Capricorn expects conformity with standards and responsibility. This Moon/Saturn square is a struggle with authority. If you feel your inner teenager at odds with every parental representation around, remember the tension is really coming from within. It might be time to renegotiate the contract you’ve been keeping with yourself.
Saturday, June 9 Outside influences might feel constricting today with Moon/Pluto and Moon/ Venus squares. What do you really
need? In what ways are you ready to transform into a new version of yourself? Are you willing to get outside your comfort zone? Aries Moon VoC begins 2:36 p.m. until 11:03 p.m. when the Moon enters Taurus.
Sunday, June 10 Taurus Moon is always an invitation to appreciate and indulge in earthly pleasures. I hope you take this time every month to feel yourself in your body, receive love and beauty and be filled with gratitude for our planet and all our blessings.
Monday, June 11 Emotional flow and depth are very accessible today with Moon/Pluto trine. Even your deepest attachments, obsessions, and desires can rise to the surface to be loved and nurtured. Taurus Moon VoC begins 10:28 p.m. until tomorrow.
Tuesday, June 12 Mercury enters Cancer this afternoon, invoking nostalgic memories and desire to communicate from the heart. If you have any inclination toward emotional expression, this is a fantastic time to translate your feelings into writing, speaking or singing. Taurus Moon VoC ends at 1:52 a.m. when the Moon enters Gemini.
Wednesday, June 13 New Moon in Gemini is at the exact time the Moon goes void-of-course, giving us time to float around with the new intentions we set until tomorrow. Is there something you are ready to learn? Perhaps you are ready for a whole new mindset? How you use your mind literally shapes your life. At this powerful time, what will you wish to think into existence? Gemini Moon VoC begins 2:43 p.m. until tomorrow.
Thursday, June 14 Late yesterday afternoon Venus entered Leo, heightening our desire to be seen, appreciated and adored. Venus reflects how we love, our relationships, essential needs, and capacity to receive. Leo can be a drama queen, but at the heart just wants to be loved. You might find dressing up and adding an element of play to your relationships will bring some welcome spice. Gemini Moon VoC ends at 2:19 a.m. when the Moon enters Cancer.
Friday, June 15 Pluto, Saturn and Jupiter are still retrograde. Collectively and personally we’re still faced with redefining, re-visioning and reclaiming our truth and beliefs (Jupiter), authority and respect (Saturn) and power (Pluto). If we all spend some time doing our inner work, our outer world will progress beyond our imagination. Cancer Moon VoC begins 11:18 a.m. until tomorrow.
Saturday, June 16 Today is charged with radical fun if you want it! Leo Moon conjunct Venus in Leo wants to love, play, dance, and create. Moon/Uranus square brings some instability, but also inspiration to cut loose and express with less attachment to the audience. Cancer Moon VoC ends 2:20 a.m. when the Moon enters Leo.
Sunday, June 17 Leo Moon loves a day without interfering aspects. Use this creative energy to step onto the stage of life in the way that makes you happiest; the way that makes your heart leap with joy. Don’t let anyone, including you, discourage you from showing up and taking your rightful place in the world! Leo Moon VoC begins 10:25 p.m. until tomorrow.
Monday, June 18 Neptune joins the retrograde party this evening. We have five months to reexamine our relationship with faith, hope, grace, dreams, vision and unconditional love. Retrograde periods are an opportunity to discover something we left behind and integrate it going forward. Neptune wants to dissolve false illusions and reveal more Truth. Leo Moon VoC ends at 3:40 a.m. when the Moon enters Virgo.
Tuesday, June 19 Today’s theme is integration. Virgo Moon opposing Neptune in Pisces can feel like a tug-of-war between Heaven and Earth, or between reality and dreams. You can have it all, but it may not be as you imagine. If you focus on what you want but leave room for the details to fill themselves in, everything magically falls into place.
Wednesday, June 20 Do you find a balance between your goal-driven, linear rational self (Sun) and your reflective, abstract emotional self CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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(Moon)? The Moon/Sun square reveals personal turmoil. If you find you’re at odds with what you think and how you’re feeling, give yourself room to come together and come undone at the same time. Everything, especially about you, doesn’t have to make sense. Virgo Moon VoC begins 5:51 a.m. until 7:29 a.m. when the Moon enters Libra.
out of nowhere. This is also true emotionally, so stay with yourself and pay attention to avoid unnecessary collisions and confrontations. Don’t let something or someone from out of left field pull you off your center. Libra Moon VoC ends at 2:10 p.m. when the Moon enters Scorpio.
Thursday, June 21
Moon/Jupiter conjunction in Scorpio intensifies feelings and can trigger us to blow things out of proportion. Jupiter wants to expand our consciousness, and sometimes we need to see how we exaggerate things to bring them back down to size.
Happy Summer Solstice! We enter Cancer’s domain which can be quite crabby at times as this sign is feelingin-motion, and feelings change like the tides. Do you feel me? Cancer as an archetype initiates the exploration of the psychological world of emotion. When emotionally self-sufficient and secure, Cancer is tremendously nurturing, caring and healing. Cancer season is a beautiful time to connect with family, enjoy home and practice self-care. Libra Moon VoC begins 8:34 p.m. until tomorrow.
Friday, June 22 Be careful late afternoon, especially if you’re commuting. Moon/Uranus opposition can manifest as the unexpected from
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Sunday, June 24 If you’ve been feeling the need to communicate your feelings, the Moon/ Mercury trine in water signs will help you flow. Even if you don’t initially feel the pull, try journaling or striking up a deep conversation and see if some mini selftherapy nurtures your soul. Scorpio Moon VoC begins 8:59 a.m. until 11:29 p.m. when the Moon enters Sagittarius.
Monday, June 25 Sagittarian Moon today brings levity and optimism and a call to venture into the unknown. Venus/Jupiter square will reveal ways we can open our minds in relating to others, allowing more room for growth and greater purpose in our most intimate partnerships.
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Tuesday, June 26
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Mars, the planet of initiation, desire, energy and drive turns retrograde for two months. Time to reassess how we’ve been asserting ourselves in life. Do you know what you want? Have you been acting on your own behalf? Use this time to tune-in to what makes you feel alive. Our Mars-self needs a purpose – something to strive toward. Too much Martian energy can be aggressive and combative. Repressing Mars leaves us feeling weak and tired. Over the next two months, explore what really turns you on and the higher purpose it can serve. Sagittarius Moon VoC begins 7:53 a.m. until tomorrow.
CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY PODCAS................2 CRYSTAL EARTH ROCK SHOP........................2 DIANE STILWELL...........................................3 DIANE STILWELL...........................................3 EARTHSONG...............................................21 ENLIGHTENED LIVING HYPNOSIS.................11 FLOWERING HEART CENTER.......................21 THE FOUNDATION FOR SHAMANIC STUDIES....31 INFINITY FOUNDATION................................15 LARRABEE HERBS.......................................21 LIGHT UNLTD/THE REJUVENIZER.................32 LIGHTWORKERS CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY....22 LIVING YOGA THERAPY................................31 PERENNIAL MUSIC & ARTS..........................21 UNIVERSAL AWARENESS FELLOWSHIP........13 WORLD OF FAERIES FESTIVAL.....................21
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Wednesday, June 27 Sun/Saturn opposition and Moon/Saturn conjunction remind us we are responsible for ourselves – for what we think, say and do. Just minutes before midnight, the Capricorn Full Moon will be at its
peak illumination. What do Capricorn and Saturn offer us? Mastery, satisfaction and success! Reflect upon all that you’ve accomplished, recognizing your efforts. And if you’re not where you want to be, accept yourself with kindness and have the endurance to keep going. We quickly translate difficult Saturnian energy as failure but remove the judgment and it is simply life experience. Sagittarius Moon VoC ends at 10:52 a.m. when the Moon enters Capricorn.
Thursday, June 28 Moon/Jupiter and Moon/Neptune sextiles bring us waves of happiness, emotionally and in our bodies. Take this opportunity to meditate or do something that makes you feel peaceful and relaxed. Receive the flow of infinite Spirit of which you are a vital, eternal part.
Friday, June 29 Today begins with a punch, long before the Sun rises. Moon/Pluto conjunction has the potential to take us down but down is not a “bad” thing. If you want to get more real with yourself and the ways you try to control life, today is your friend. You don’t have to serve that same old master. Mercury moved into Leo today, setting our minds ablaze with creative ideas. We may all feel a renewed impulse to share more of ourselves, even with some pomp and circumstance. When the storyteller and performer come together, it’s fun to embrace ourselves as a living myth. Capricorn Moon VoC begins 3:57 a.m. until 11:36 p.m. when the Moon enters Aquarius.
Saturday, June 30 Creativity is in the air and crackling with potential. Mercury/Uranus square, if approached with open-mindedness and willingness to be flexible channels brilliant innovative thinking. With Mercury in Leo, imagine what it means to have a heart-centered, passionate, liberated mind. Aquarian Moon helps us detach from over-personalization and inflated self-importance, so we can focus on radiating our light in ways that fulfill our desires and contribute to society. 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.
[HEARTh & HOME]
cups cold water. Chill before serving. You may serve this lemonade simply over ice, or pour over ice to halfway and top with sparkling water.
L’ÉTÉ EN PROVENCE
LE SIROP DE LAVANDE 1 cup water
Culinary Lavender and Raw Honey
1 cup raw honey 1 tablespoon of fresh culinary lavender or 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
by Janae Jean Lavender is for more than skin care and potpourri; it’s a culinary herb that adds a certain je ne sais quoi to both sweet and savory dishes and beverages. Lavender is a common herb in Southern French or Provençal cooking. While only recently becoming popular in North America, lavender has been used as a cooking herb in Europe for at least 2,500 years. When cooking with lavender, it is important to start with a little. If you add too much, it can turn a culinary nod to the French countryside to a dish that tastes like it was doused in perfume. Lavender may be used in place of rosemary is most dishes. It has many known health benefits, including reducing anxiety, encouraging better sleep, decreasing inflammation, protecting cardiovascular health and supporting gut health. Raw honey makes a great partner for culinary lavender in sweet and savory dishes. Its sweetness blends well with lavender’s floral flavor. This combination makes for great herbal teas and lemonades, but also works well as a glaze or marinade for savory dishes. Locally sourced raw honey is natural remedy for seasonal allergies, as the allergy sufferer is ingesting minute quantities of local pollens in every spoonful. Honey is commonly known to be antibacterial, antifungal and increases athletic performance as it aids muscles in recovery time. In this month’s menu, lavender and honey play off the earthly flavors of grilled mushrooms and the rich, savory flavors of the traditional herbes de Provence. This déjeuner à la campagne (lunch in the country) is perfect for recreating L’été en Provence (the summer in Provence) on your patio or at the park.
1 tablespoon dried parsley 1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender 1 teaspoon marjoram ½ teaspoon mint ½ teaspoon fennel ¼ teaspoon oregano 1 crushed dried bay leaf Blend together spices and store in a resealable container.
LES CHAMPIGNONS PROVENÇAL 8 large portabella mushroom caps 1/4 cup melted butter or olive oil 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar 1 tablespoon raw honey 1½ teaspoons herbes de provence Salt and pepper to taste 2 chopped green onions Shredded gruyère cheese (optional)
Bring water and lavender to a boil. Stir in honey until dissolved. Simmer for 15 minutes. Let cool for an hour, and then strain out the flowers.
LES FRAISES AU FROMAGE DE CHÈVRE 12 whole strawberries, hulled 4 ounces creamy goat cheese ¼ cup plain kefir 1 teaspoon raw honey Pinch of salt Culinary rose petals and/or culinary hibiscus flowers, as garnish To hull strawberries, use a sharp knife to scoop out stems. With an electric mixer, whip creamy goat cheese, plain kefir, salt and honey. Spoon whipped cheese mixture into hulled berries. Garnish with edible flowers. Chill until ready to serve.
Remove spores and stems from mushrooms with spoon. Grind herbes de provence with a mortar and pestle or in a coffee grinder. In a small bowl, mix together the butter or oil, vinegar, honey and herbes de provence. Grind in salt and pepper to taste. Pour over the mushroom caps and marinate for an hour. Grill mushrooms on hot grill for about six minutes. Place on serving tray and top with chopped green onions and shredded gruyère, if desired.
Serve with fresh greens, baguettes, cheese board and chilled rosé to have the full Southern French experience. I encourage you to experiment with herbes de provence, trying it with steak, chicken, salmon, summer squash or even jackfruit, or substitute balsamic vinegar or grape seed oil. As always, don’t hesitate to send me photos of your creations janae@ ConsciousCommunityMagazine.com. Bon appétit, mes amis!
LA LIMONADE À LA LAVANDE
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 assistance. She is also a music teacher and sound healer; visit www.perennialmusicandarts.com and www.janaejean.com.
HERBES DE PROVENCE
1 cup lemon juice ½ cup key lime juice 1 cup lavender syrup 2 cups cold water Sparkling water (if desired)
1 tablespoon thyme 1 tablespoon rosemary
Mix cooled lavender syrup (below) with lemon juice, key lime juice and two
CONSCIOUSCOMMUNITYMAGAZINE.COM
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29
[BOOK REVIEWS]
In Print Reviews by Kayla Hancock
To Really Love a Man,
by Joyce Vissell, RN, MS and Barry Vissell, MD (Ramira Publishing, Paperback, $15.95)
While underneath the skin we are all are extravagantly similar souls, there are fundamental differences in the way most men and women express themselves and view this world. Joyce and Barry share tools that will help readers to more fully honor their significant others. Specifically, this book focuses on how a man’s partner can help him to feel his emotions and vulnerability while still allowing him to feel acknowledged and secure.
To Really Love a Woman,
by Barry Vissell, MD and Joyce Vissell, RN, MS (Ramira Publishing, Paperback, $15.95)
Similar to the book above, this second collaboration between Barry and Joyce Vissell also helps readers learn how to more deeply respect and connect with their partners. This guidebook focuses particularly on helping individuals in relationships with women to bring out her creativity, dreams and passions while still allowing her to feel safe and appreciated. Their writing refers mostly to heterosexual men and women, but it does not limit it’s potential to positively influence the lives of LGBTQ individuals.
The Parents’ Guide to Climate Revolution: 100 Ways to Build a Fossil-Free Future, Raise Empowered Kids, and Still Get a Good Night’s Sleep, by Mary DeMocker (New World Library, Paperback, $16.95) Easy. Practical. And, oh yes…life changing! All of these can be used to describe the climate saving practices that Mary DeMocker shares in this book. Parenting may not be the easiest of tasks; however, Democker teaches parents ways in which they can empower their children to make a positive impact on the environment. Some of her great tips include family bike rides, planting trees and even simply eating less junk food. 30
| CONSCIOUS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE JUNE 2018
It Tickled the Whiskers of My Soul, by Rebecca Rose (Rebecca Rose Press, Paperback, $14.99) Our thoughts create our reality. Unsatisfactory thoughts create an unsatisfied life. When Rebecca Rose approached an all-time low, she decided to read a lot of books on manifestation, spirituality and positive energy. This is a book of letters that Rose has written to her children to read when they are older. She shares these spiritual lessons with the world, hoping they can serve as a helpful resource and inspiration for someone in need.
Being Present: Cultivate a Peaceful Mind through Spiritual Practice, by Darren Cockburn (Findhorn Press, Paperback, $16.99) It can be easy to get caught up in our own mind chatter. In this book, Darren Cockburn teaches readers how to overcome unhelpful thoughts and feelings through a variety of practices including breathwork, exercise, dieting and connecting with nature. He shares why living simpler lives helps us to more easily understand our addictive behaviors and how practicing mindfulness can improve our communication with loved ones and colleagues.
Breaking Up with Busy:
Real-Life Solutions for Overscheduled Women, by Yvonne Tally (New World Library, Hardcover, $18.95) In our society, keeping a loaded daily schedule while maintaining minimum sleep schedules has somehow become desirable. In this book, Yvonne Tally helps readers reclaim their lives by providing over 50 reminders on how to break the habit of being busy. She explains how living a more balanced life enhances spiritual connection and reintroduces us to important aspects of living, such as play and pleasure.
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.
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