ARE YOU REALLY CHOOSINGOR IS YOUR NERVOUS SYSTEM DECIDING FOR YOU?
STOP CALLING IT A COINCIDENCE: THE TRUTH ABOUT YOUR INTUITION
USING SPIRITUAL MODALITIES TO UNMASK YOUR HIGHER SELF
Editor-in-Chief
With a lifetime of spiritual experiences after finding my own way in the dark, I created Explore the Awakened as an extension of the Milky Way Collective online community, infused with Holy Fire Reiki energy to help light the way for your own spiritual journey
This is your guide to Explore the Awakened in northeast Wisconsin. Manitowoc, Two Rivers, Algoma, and Green Bay near the shores of Lake Michigan are home to a variety of healing modalities, including Reiki, human design, quantum healing hypnosis, hydrotherapy, halotherapy, psychic mediumship, intuitives, and even more wellness services.
If you’re on the path, I’m here to light the way. Welcome to the Explore the Awakened community!
Sara Biren writes stories from the Northwoods with heart, humor, and happy ever afters. The author of adult and young adult contemporary romance, she earned an MFA in creative writing from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and has more than two decades of experience as a freelance editor. Until recently a lifelong Minnesotan, Sara now lives in Wisconsin along the Lake Michigan lakeshore If she’s not reading, writing, or watching hockey or football, you’ll most likely find her at a concert with her husband and kids or hiking the Ice Age Trail.
The information provided in this magazine is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice, including but not limited to medical, legal, financial, or psychological advice. For any health, legal, financial, or psychological concerns, please consult with a qualified professional. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information presented in this magazine. Any links to third-party websites or services are provided for convenience only; we do not endorse any specific products or services. You are solely responsible for any actions you take or decisions you make based on the content of this magazine. We are not liable for any damages, losses, or injuries that may arise from your use of this magazine or reliance on its content. All content in this magazine, including but not limited to text, images, and graphics, is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws
Theresa Kronforst draws from the messenger oracle for the summer reading Surrender to the flow, with love and kindness, and share your thoughts.
Learn more about Reiki, a Japanese energy healing practice, from Jennifer Barnes, Sunalero.
Home should be a place where you feel deeply connected. Jennifer Glandt from Resonant Spaces provides tips to connect with your place.
An immersive experience with Heather LaFond set against Sedona's iconic red rocks, where the land itself becomes part of your healing.
Gina Armstrong from Balance on Buffalo discusses how massage therapy can bring awareness to the body while creating space for change
Nicole Terrien, Runic Apothecary, discusses how to strip away the layers of masks.
Elevate your Glow this season with Jessica Maxwell’s summer tips
Tammie Trippler talks about the good and the uncomfortable when it comes to awakening.
Heather LaFond, Psychic Medium, reveals the signs your intuition is trying to send you.
Scott Bartell explains how accupuncture can help get you out of fight or flight
Jessica Clayborn, Inward Path Counseling, contemplates how to cultivate the garden of your soul.
HEALING MODALITIES
Explore a variety of spiritual healing modalities from Astrology and Channeling to Mediumship.
SPIRITUAL PRACTITIONERS
A collection of stars to guide you along on your own spiritual journey.
LISA KAY’S MILKY WAY BLOG
Blog featuring personal stories about one soul’s journey on the spiritual path.
COMPLIMENTARY MEDITATION
This morning meditation is intended to go along with your own Reiki self-healing practice.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations for online resources, books and products, as well as spiritual services.
WISDOM FROM THE STARS
These are short channeled messages for the collective.
The tides are turning. If you’re tapped into energy, I’m sure you’ve been feeling it. Something is shifting. Something is coming. It is time to trust that everything in your experience has been preparing you for this time. Stay grounded in the present moment without being pulled into ruminations over the past or anxiety about the future. You will best serve from a place of flow. Don’t fight against the current, but allow it to carry you into a new future.
Trust that the tides will carry you.
Summer is a season of exponential growth and you will find tools on the following pages to fine tune the work you have already been doing. Whether it is learning to recognize how your intuition speaks to you, seeing through the illusions of the masks we wear, or calming your nervous sytem, I trust you will find something that calls you forward in this issue.
Like waves lapping at your feet, this calling is inviting you into deeper waters.
Submitted by Theresa Kronforst, Moments with Theresa
The first card is the message for June, which is surrender to the flow. So as summer begins, maybe pay attention to the things that you are controlling and feel the need to control. Where in your life are you able to sort of release that a little bit, relax into it, and just surrender to the flow of life rather than controlling the things happening around you? Be the ladybug on the leaf. You can’t control the current of the river, but you can control your position on the voyage.
The next card we have for July is with love and kindness, so as you’ve surrendered into June and recognized where some control could be shifted, I feel this is a recognizing moment of looking at yourself with love and kindness, knowing that surrendering into moments is just as strong as holding control in moments. Notice the dragon’s head on her staff. How fierce are you right now?!
Then tying everything together for the month of August, we have share your thoughts. I also want to mention the fact that this is a dragon on the card and we had a dragon in the previous card, which shows pure alignment for the message. So now we’ve gotten through June and July We’ve surrendered into situations, gone with the flow, and we’ve released some control. We’ve showed ourselves love and kindness and grace, stepped into our fierce reality, and now it’s time to recognize those things. Now it’s time to share those thoughts. You can share them with yourself or you can share them with others, but recognize and share them in a way suitable to you.
This is a summer of recognition, self appreciation, a Enjoy it!
With love, Theresa
Reiki is a Japanese energy healing practice used for relaxation and stress reduction Some people unwind by reading books, listening to music, attending an exercise class, or walking in the woods. Reiki offers another gentle and restorative approach to wellness. This word comes from “Rei” meaning universal and “Ki” meaning life energy in Japanese. Not only does Reiki relax you and reduce your stress, but it also balances your chakras or energy centers. This ancient technique was developed by Mikao Usui in 1922 following a spiritual retreat where he wanted to create a state of inner peace and enlightenment. He created a healing system accessible to all that connected individuals to “universal life force” energy to promote healing in the body and mind.
During a session, a Reiki practitioner channels universal life energy through their hands to help clear energy blockages. This also encourages the body’s natural healing response. The person receiving Reiki lays on a massage table fully clothed. The Reiki practitioner gently places their hands on the Chakras or their hands are held slightly above these areas. During the session, the Reiki
recipient is encouraged to use their breath to help clear the energy blocks and to relax
People experience Reiki in different ways. Some may feel warmth, coolness, or tingling sensations on their skin while others feel a sense of deep relaxation. Some individuals experience an emotional release with tears as stress and anxiety leave the body. After the session, people often describe the Reiki experience as peaceful, calming, relaxing, and grounding. They leave the session in a relaxed state filled with inner peace.
Reiki does not treat or heal medical conditions; therefore it is not a replacement for medical treatment. It complements medical treatment by supporting balance and harmony in the mind, body, and spirit. Reiki is offered in many hospitals to help patients calm their nervous systems and help people manage stress.
Reiki is a wonderful tool to be used to release stress and to support your well-being. I invite you to try a session and add it to your wellness regimen to keep your body, mind, and spirit in balance.
Sunalero is dedicated to helping you find your inner peace to live a life of joy through Reiki, Peter Hess Sound Therapy, and Shamanic Energy Healing, along with meditations, sound spas, and despacho ceremonies.
Source: reiki.org/faqs/what-history-reiki
Submitted by Jennifer Glandt, Resonant Spaces
Close your eyes for a moment and think about your favorite place(s). Perhaps it’s a beach, a mountain, a cabin in the woods. It could be a favorite city or an island resort. Imagine the views, the scents, the sounds. How do you feel when you are there? Relaxed? Excited? Curious?
Whether or not we have spent time deeply contemplating it, we have all had experiences of being moved, for better or worse, by the spirit of place. This applies equally to both natural and built environments and to defined spaces of all sizes–stores, restaurants, schools, offices, parks, beaches, mountains, cities, countries, and, of course, homes. Every place has a certain essence, energy, or personality that either attracts or repels us, but rarely leaves us feeling indifferent.
Since everything seen and unseen is energy, it only makes sense that places have a certain vibration. A structure or plot of land holds the energetic record of all that has transpired there. The people, animals, and plants that have dwelt there have all left imprints. The place has witnessed all types of weather, human events, construction, et cetera. The current decor and/or landscape contribute as well.
Rather than discussing design, this article is focused on developing a deeper awareness of the spirit of place as a whole. In order to connect with your space, the first step is to increase your awareness of it. Our lives tend to keep us constantly busy and distracted. There is always something coming up that demands
our attention. Some people stay so busy with outside commitments that they don’t spend much time in their space at all. Others do, but are only going through the motions of daily chores before going to bed and doing it all over again. The spirit of your place may feel neglected. It may also be recording and reflecting back to you your level of stress, anxiety, exhaustion You may be surprised by the palpable shift in energy experienced when you take the time to truly tune into your space and work with it.
The spirit of place includes the land itself. Thus, we need to connect to the ground that supports the structure. When we built our home in 1999, none of this was on my radar. We loved the plot of land, the view from the top of the hill, the mature forest on the back of the property, the fact that it abuts a nature preserve. We did a good portion of the building ourselves. We poured ourselves into home and land improvements. But in all honesty, it wasn’t until years later that I truly started connecting on a deeper level. I realized, as time went on, that the home and the yard were a reflection of our lives and our relationships. Nurturing a direct connection with the home and the land has been a profound experience, one that is ongoing and evolving.
If you like the idea of connecting with your land (your home, neighborhood, city, region, state) but aren’t quite sure where to start, here are some fun ideas to consider.
Learn the history of your home, building, property, neighborhood, town, or surrounding area.
Name your home or property.
If you have a larger property, spend time physically connecting with it:
Walk the land from different perspectives.
Walk barefoot when the season allows.
Have a picnic on a blanket.
Sit under a tree to read.
Spend quiet time observing your surroundings or meditating.
Investigate native plants and animals:
Plant native species.
Make a list of the animal and bird species that visit your space
Grow/forage your own food and/or plants for smudging.
Incorporate plants that support native and migratory species such as monarchs, bees, and birds.
Document your space over time:
Take photos of decor changes, landscaping, remodeling projects, or new construction. If building, document the process from start to finish.
Frame and hang an aerial photo of the property.
Create a scrapbook or photo archive.
“Eat local” by incorporating plant and animal species native to your area into your diet
Be a tourist in your own area:
Explore local parks, trails, and tourist attractions.
Explore new-to-you local stores, cafes, and restaurants.
Drive different routes instead of always taking the quickest way.
Remember that favorite place you envisioned? Remember how it felt to be there? That’s how home should feel! Not that it isn’t great to get away once in a while…but coming home should be an exhale. Home should be a place where we feel deeply connected and supported. On the other hand, if your home has felt boring and uninspiring lately, seeing it in a new light can make it feel vibrant and exciting – it can renew your appreciation for where you live. Sometimes that renewal comes with making physical changes to your space. Other times a shift in perception and appreciation is all that is needed to truly connect to the spirit of your place!
Nestled within Arizona’s crimson cliffs, Sedona isn’t just a destination, it’s a spiritual experience. Renowned for its mesmerizing landscapes, this desert haven has long been a magnet for seekers, healers, and those yearning for deeper connection.
At the heart of Sedona’s allure are its famed energy vortexes - mystical sites like Airport Mesa, Bell Rock, Boynton Canyon, and Cathedral Rock. These swirling centers of energy are believed to facilitate healing, meditation, and self-exploration,
offering visitors a chance to tap into Earth’s rejuvenating forces.
But Sedona’s magic isn’t in its landscapes alone. You can feel it in a profound sense of peace that envelops you as you connect with the sacred land. This is a place where the veil between the physical and spiritual thins, inviting introspection, transformation, and a rekindling of your inner light. If you’re ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, Sedona offers more than just scenic beauty, it offers a portal to your radiant soul.
Sedona is a living, breathing energy field that meets you exactly where you are and dares you to go deeper. The Sedona Radiance Retreat is an immersive experience set against Sedona's iconic red rocks, where the land itself becomes part of your healing. What makes this retreat different is the people you'll share it with: a small, intentional community of people who are done doing it alone and ready to rise together. Healing doesn't have to be heavy, and in the right container, surrounded by the right energy, it rarely is. Whether you're just beginning to wake up or you've been on this path for years, there's a seat at the table for you.
“BEING IN THE ENERGY OF THE VORTICES OF SEDONA IS TRULY A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE!”
-Heather LaFond
HEATHERLaFOND
HeatherLaFondisaPsychicMedium,ShamanicEnergy Therapist,ReikiMaster,CertifiedHypnotherapist,NLP& TimelineTherapyPractitioner,andIntuitionCoachbased inManitowoc,Wisconsin.SheistheauthorofRise& Roar:UnleashYourInnerPowerandthecreatorofthe YouAREIntuitiveImmersion.
HeatherLaFond.com 920-973-1977 @heather.soar wellness heather@heatherlafond.com
Submitted by Gina Armstrong, Balance on Buffalo Art © Pranithan Chorruangsak and eyecrave productions via Canva.com
What if discomfort isn’t something to fix, but something to listen to?
It’s one of the most common things heard in the room.
“MY SHOULDERS ARE SO TIGHT.”
“MY HIPS WON’T RELEASE.”
“THERE’S A KNOT IN THERE THAT JUST WON’T GO AWAY.”
For a long time, that’s been the way we’ve learned to talk about the body. Tight. Stuck. Something to work out, push through, or fix. But over years of hands-on work, something different begins to reveal itself. The more the body is listened to rather than pushed, the more it begins to make sense.
What we feel as tightness is often the body responding and quietly asking to be noticed.
The body is constantly adapting to how we move, how we sit, how we carry stress, and how we move through the day not as a mistake, but as a form of support. Fascia, the connective tissue that weaves through the entire body, is part of that response. It is dynamic and responsive, influenced by the nervous system and the environment we are living in, and it reorganizes itself based on what it is being asked to do Current research continues to support the role of fascia and the nervous system in how the body adapts and responds.
So when something feels tight, it may not be stuck at all. It may be the body holding a pattern that, at some point, made sense.
This shows up in simple ways. Sitting for long periods, the body organizes around that shape. Moving quickly throughout the day, it organizes around that pace. After an injury, it builds protection that can remain long after the tissue itself has healed. Over time, these patterns become familiar, and familiarity—even when it is not comfortable—can feel stable to the nervous system.
This is often why people feel relief after a massage, and then a few days later it seems like everything came back. It is not that nothing changed. It is that the body returned to what it knows. The body stays in a guarding pattern because the nervous system still feels like it needs to protect.
Instead of seeing this as something that failed, it can be an invitation to pause and look at it a little differently.
Pain and discomfort can be the body’s way of catching our attention, asking us to notice what it needs. We have become very good, as a society, at moving away from discomfort as quickly as possible. We distract, we push through, we override. We treat the body like something that should keep up, no matter what.
What if, even for a moment, we leaned toward that discomfort instead of away not to analyze it or fix it, but simply to notice what is there.
Massage therapy creates a setting where that becomes possible. While receiving a massage, the body is given a chance to stop holding itself in the same way. As space begins to open, the breath often deepens on its own, slowing down and settling into a more natural rhythm.
At other times, work may be happening in one area while something else begins to soften. A shoulder releases while the ribcage is being supported. The low back quiets when the legs are positioned in a way that allows it to let go.
The body works as a whole, and when one area feels supported, another area often no longer needs to hold as much.
There are also quieter moments when nothing dramatic happens, but something becomes clear. A subtle tension is noticed. A way of holding becomes more apparent. A place that has not had much attention begins to come into awareness. That awareness alone can begin to create change, because the body is no longer being ignored.
Lasting change in the body does not come from forcing it to let go. It comes from giving the body a different option and enough support to choose it. There is a tendency to think that deeper pressure or more intensity will create better results. Sometimes that is appropriate, but just as often, too much input too quickly causes the body to guard. The nervous system tightens in response, even when the intention is to help.
When the work is paced in a way the body can receive, something softens. The nervous system settles, and the body no longer feels like it needs to hold itself in the same way. This is where the work begins to last not because something was forced to change, but because the body was given the conditions it needed to shift.
Over time, it becomes clear that nothing needs to be forced. What if, instead, the body is asking to be heard and felt? When we soften and begin to lean toward the discomfort, space opens for it to be seen and felt, and within that space, change can begin.
Massage therapy can be one of those moments not as something that needs to fix the body, but as a way of bringing awareness to it while creating space for change. In that space, something begins to shift. Sometimes it unfolds over time, and sometimes it happens in an instant. The body recognizes when it has experienced something different, and when it does, it often no longer needs to hold itself in the same way.
Gina L. Armstrong has been a practicing massage therapist since 2002 and is the owner of Balance on Buffalo in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Her background includes extensive experience in medical massage, and working with chronic pain and injury patterns, which continues to inform her work today.
Her approach blends this clinical foundation with a more responsive way of listening to the body and working within the fascial system Influenced by her training in myofascial release and sound therapy, her work supports creating space within the body where clients can begin to hear and feel what it is communicating
She believes that discomfort in the body is a form of communication, and when that communication is listened to and felt, patterns can begin to shift, soften, and resolve.
920-684-8880 | info@balanceonbuffalo.com
Take a moment to pause and listen to yourself; listen to your mind; listen to your body. What information are you sensing? Has it been a while since you checked in with yourself? If you are sensing exhaustion deep within, then gift yourself the opportunity to sip some tea and read this little diddy written just for you. You know the exhaustion I'm talking about. The kind that doesn't come from a long run or a late night, but from the slow, relentless effort of pretending to be someone you're not. Laughing at jokes that sting. Biting back the truth to keep the peace. Shrinking yourself so others feel comfortable. It's draining because it's a lie and your soul knows it. What if the very thing you've been running from (your raw, unfiltered, flawed, honest self) was actually your greatest source of power? Not the loud, aggressive kind of power, but the grounded, unshakable kind that lets you walk through life without needing anyone's permission. Spirituality isn't about floating away from reality; it's about finally landing in your own skin. And there are practical, ancient, and deeply effective tools to help you do exactly that. Let's talk about how to use them while allowing grace for ourselves during the journey.
Most of us are walking around wearing a version of ourselves that was crafted to please, protect, or perform. We laugh when we want to cry, say yes when every cell screams no, and chase achievements that leave us feeling strangely empty. This mask, however necessary it once seemed, is the very thing blocking us from our authentic power. True power isn't about control, wealth, or dominance; it's the quiet, unshakable alignment between your soul's truth and your daily actions. Spirituality, far from being an escape from reality, offers a practical toolkit of modalities such as meditation, shadow work, breath, movement, and more in order to gently peel back the conditioned layers. In this article, we'll explore how to use these spiritual practices to step into the person you actually are, why doing so is essential for your mental and emotional health, and how living authentically becomes the greatest gift you can offer the world.
Without authenticity, we suffer from fatigue, resentment, and meaninglessness. Stepping into authentic power allows you to make decisions from clarity, contribute unique gifts to the world, and experience genuine peace. Discover what lies within stillness, explore what nothingness holds when you finally take the chance to be still and allow for nothing. This is a marathon, not a sprint, but I promise you this journey is worth taking. Every single step is purposeful and full of magic.
You may hear this term get tossed around frequently, and perhaps you feel you are pretty authentic - but deep down, this work is always in motion. Your true authentic self is the part of you that existed before societal conditioning, fear, and false identities came along and mixed
with your core values, intuition, and soul signature. Powerful does not mean aggressive; it means being unshakable in your truth, resilient, and able to act with love and boundaries.
PEOPLE-PLEASING,
DOUBT,
AFTER ACHIEVEMENTS, FEELINGS OF STAGNANCY OR BEING “STUCK.”
There is no right or wrong way to dive in and embark on a journey of self-discovery, but here are some helpful tools to get you started. Simply align yourself with whichever tool resonates with you and dive in! Keep in mind, there are many more than what is listed in this article. The suggested tools listed are gentle ways of dipping your toe in the water of spirituality while allowing your conscious mind to easily integrate the inevitable changes experienced from the work you will embark on - allowing integration and taking your time is critical as this will prevent burnout or feeling overwhelmed.
Daily sitting practice, body scans, or awareness of thoughts without attachment. Stillness silences the inner critic and social noise so you can discern your authentic voice from fearbased chatter. Let go of the expectations of what “meditation” should be and allow for it to be whatever works best for you. We meditate everyday without realizing it. When you drive from one place to another and allow your mind to drift off, that is meditation. When you’re taking a shower or washing the dishes and find yourself “daydreaming,” that is meditation. Now that you are aware of how often it happens, you can start doing it on purpose and with intention. Keep in mind, this takes practice and time. Allow yourself the grace to move into a place where stillness is comfortable. This can be a difficult process for folks who choose to remain physically active as a distraction from the thoughts the subconscious mind is trying to address by raising it to consciousness When we spend our life repressing thoughts and memories and are shifting into a place of willingness and mindfulness, the thoughts can seem overwhelming. This leads us into our next process of journaling
Prompt-based journaling, unsent letters, dialogues with your inner child, and more can allow your mind to let go and finally allow words to pour out that you didn’t even know were hiding deep within. If you’re not a fan of journaling (not many people are) you may consider vlogging. Create a video log of you simply chatting away at your camera as it records you - then circle back and watch the video making note of what stands out to you as triggers, a-ha moments, or thoughts you didn’t realize were continuing to take up space and can be finally released. These processes externalize hidden beliefs and desires. Shadow work (facing hidden aspects of self) integrates rather than represses, and true power can begin taking place of these stored feelings. Replacing fear with trust, for example. This process is incredibly beneficial when working through the thoughts continuing to circulate in our mind If we choose to avoid letting go, we actively choose to remain in one place, restricting anything beneficial to us from coming forward. How can we move forward if we refuse to learn from the past? Look at your thoughts and memories from a different perspective - treat them as informationsomething to sift through - an event that occurred is filled with information to dissect, take what you learned, grow from it with love and gratitude, and release it. This is such profound work! What can be done in the meantime to support your mind and body while you navigate these opportunities of growth? The answer, my friend, is energy work.
Learn basic breathwork patterns (conscious connected breathing) or receive Reiki to clear stagnant energy and restore your mind, body, and spirit to your highest optimal vibrational state while you embark on your journey back to self. These are incredible tools to use while working to break through old habits or thought patterns. Breathwork can be a critical tool when anxiety takes over or you feel yourself stuck in the story. Remember, we are looking at past experiences as a tool to heal from, to learn from, all while knowing we are analyzing this information for the greater good of the present moment in order to step into the future with restored strength and sense of purpose. Authenticity lives in the body, not just the mind. Clearing energetic blocks releases trauma and shame held in tissues, freeing spontaneous self-expression. This is a basic explanation of something quite profound, therefore trust is a key component throughout the entire process, throughout life. Trust in yourself. Trust in our higher self. Trust in Spirit and trust in the divine Universal way. You’ve come this far! How great would it feel to know you’re not alone on this path? Connection is one of the greatest medicines. We are meant to have our tribe.
Join a meditation circle, find a trusted teacher, or engage in peer sharing groups. Authenticity is mirrored by others. An honest community validates your journey and challenges remaining masks with kindness. Oftentimes we allow undesirable thoughts to circulate in our mind much longer than necessary - we perceive ourselves as “working through it” but when these thoughts occupy so much of our
mind for a prolonged period of time, we are no longer “working through it;” rather, we are stuck in the story of it. By connecting and communicating, we allow ourselves the opportunity to gain new insights, new perspectives, which allows us to push through and grow much quicker than if we remain stagnant. This doesn’t mean taking everyone’s advice all the time - it simply means to share and trust in yourself to discern the information or advice provided and choose what resonates within you - choose which next course to take.
Authenticity ends chronic anxiety and depression rooted in perceived self-betrayal as you begin to gain clarity, energy, and renewed joy. Pretending to be someone you think you are supposed to be attracts relationships based on false selves. Authenticity attracts people who love the real you, and repels what isn’t aligned. The world needs your unique medicine, the true aspect of yourselfespecially the weird parts! Don’t be afraid to explore what makes you YOU and allow that vibrant soul to come forward. When you shrink, you give permission for others to shrink. Stepping into your power is an act of service and others will happily follow your example because there’s a sense of freedom in that act of bravery - a sense of freedom we all are longing for. Many traditions say the soul incarnates to remember itself; failing to live authentically is failing your soul’s contract.
Start small and allow grace for yourself on this journey of self-discovery, a journey back to self. Pick one modality, try it for a couple weeks, and notice how it feels to act from inner truth rather than outer approval. Remind yourself as often as needed that setbacks are normal; authenticity is not a destination but a
continuous unraveling of the false to reveal the real. We’ve worn these masks and navigated this world with all its conditioning for quite some time - our whole lives, so allow yourself time to unravel and rebuild. As you continue to grow into your true self, remember we will always encounter obstacles and challenges in life - this work allows us the awareness that these are simply opportunities for further development rather than setbacks. By truly changing our perspective, we allow the information to be processed in a different light, a light filled with hope rather than disdain.
Wisconsin is full of vibrant communities where you can find spiritual practitioners to support you and guide you along the way. If you’re in the Green Bay and surrounding areas, reach out to us at Runic Apothecary where we offer support and guidance, and hold space for all who seek validation. You are not alone. We proudly collaborate with practitioners throughout Wisconsin and are happy to help you connect with someone right for you when you’re ready.
Thank you for your bravery. Thank you for considering the journey of stepping into your true self. I look forward to our paths crossing someday and hearing all about your story!
And these are my words. -Nicole Terrien
Nicoleisadivinelyguidedspiritualpractitioner bridgingtheseenandunseenrealmstofacilitate deephealing,transformation,andawakening.Witha sacredblendofmediumship,herbalwisdom, quantumenergyhealing,Reiki,shamanic,and pagantraditions,shesupportssoulsinreleasing blockages,reclaimingtheirpower,andaligningwith theirhighestpath.
Herpracticesincludeherbalismbywayofharnessing thevibrationalmedicineofplantsforphysical, emotional,andspiritualwell-beingandQuantum Healing,whichentailsworkingwithenergyfieldsto shiftlimitingpatternsandactivatemultidimensional healing.Inaddition,sheoffersReikiSessions,which utilizetheuniversallifeforceenergytorestoreand balanceyourmainchakraenergycenters.Shamanic journeys,soulretrievals,ancestralhealing,and spirit-ledguidancethroughancientwisdom traditionsareafewoftheshamanicpracticesshe hasbeentrainedtooffer.
Whetherthroughone-on-onesessions,sacred ceremonies,orspiritualeducation,Nicole’sgoalisto empoweryouwiththetools,clarity,andenergetic supportneededtothriveonyoursoul’sjourney.
SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE & HEALING WITH NICOLE LOCATED AT RUNIC APOTHECARY 844 Willard Dr, Green Bay, WI runicapothecarygb.com
Submitted by Jessica Maxwell, Elevate Your Glow | Cover Art © Meryl Merlin via Canva.com
Summer invites us to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and reconnect with nature, with others, and with ourselves But between busy schedules, outdoor activities, travel, and heat, it’s also a time when our routines can easily fall out of balance.
You may notice it in subtle ways your skin feels more reactive, your energy dips, or you feel a little more scattered than usual. If you’ve ever felt like your skin just isn’t cooperating during the summer, you’re not alone.
This is where a simple summer reset can make all the difference.
By creating small, intentional rituals, you can support both your skin and your overall well-being helping you feel more grounded, refreshed, and naturally radiant from the inside out.
Your skin is often one of the first places to show when something is off. More time outdoors, increased activity, and changes in routine can leave your skin feeling dehydrated, congested, sensitive, or uneven. But your skin isn’t working against you it’s responding to what’s happening within and around you. The following are three simple ways to help your skin stay balanced this summer.
One of the simplest ways to support both your skin and your well-being is through hydration.
With increased heat and activity, your body is constantly working to regulate itself and release what it doesn’t need. Staying hydrated helps support that natural process, allowing your body to flush out toxins and maintain balance both internally and through your skin.
When hydration is off, your skin may feel tighter or more sensitive or look a little dull. These are often small signals that your body needs support.
Many people assume their skin is hydrated in the summer, but heat and sun exposure can actually leave it dehydrated beneath the surface.
Think of hydration as something you return to throughout the day. Drinking enough water supports your body from within, while topical hydration helps your skin stay calm, clear, and resilient.
Using products that truly hydrate your skin rather than just sit on the surface can make a noticeable difference. Aloe-based products, like those from L’BRI that use Aloe Barbadensis Miller as the first ingredient, help deliver moisture deeper into the skin while calming and supporting its natural barrier
When your body and skin are supported consistently, everything functions more smoothly and your natural glow becomes easier to maintain.
During the summer months, when schedules shift and days feel fuller, it’s easy for routines to become inconsistent. But this is often when your skin needs steady support the most.
Even in the busyness, taking a few moments morning and night to care for your skin can create a sense of balance. A simple routine twice a day helps keep your skin clear, supported, and naturally glowing. Rather than adding more, summer is a time to simplify.
Gentle cleansing helps remove buildup, while lightweight hydration supports your skin without feeling heavy. Choosing ingredients that work with your skin allows everything to function more smoothly.
Using a simple, aloe-based system like L’BRI’s cleanser, freshener, and moisturizer can help support your skin without overcomplicating your routine.
Your skin doesn’t always need more products— it often just needs the right kind of support.
When your routine feels easy and aligned with your day, it becomes something you return to not something you have to think about. Some days it’s not about doing more it’s about doing what actually works.
Your glow isn’t just about your skin it’s about how you feel When your energy is supported, your body is more balanced, your stress levels are lower, and your skin can function more efficiently.
For some, this may look like reading a book, slowing down, spending time in nature, creating moments of quiet, or taking a few deep breaths to center yourself.
There’s no one “right” way—only what helps you feel centered and supported. When you support your energy, your glow follows naturally and effortlessly.
Summer doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or unbalanced. By simplifying your routine, staying hydrated, and creating small moments of intention, you create space for your skin and body to reset in a more natural way.
If you’re not sure what your skin needs right now or want help creating a simple routine that actually works for your skin, I’d love to help.
Mention this article and receive 10% off your order, and I’ll help you create a routine that supports your skin and your lifestyle.
Submitted by Tammie
Spiritual awakening is often described as peaceful, expansive, and full of light a return to self, a sense of clarity, and a deeper connection to something greater. And sometimes, it is. But what isn’t talked about as often is how awakening can feel deeply uncomfortable and, at times, disorienting. Not because something is going wrong, but because something within you is shifting in a way that can no longer be ignored. Awakening doesn’t gently invite change it removes your ability to ignore what no longer feels right.
It doesn’t just change how you think—it begins to unravel how you see things entirely. It can make you question your relationships, your patterns, and what you’ve been willing to tolerate or accept without realizing it. It’s not a gentle sense of clarity it’s more like things come into focus in a way you can’t ignore, and once you see it, you can’t unsee it. That shift changes how you move through your life. Awareness doesn’t ask for permission it changes what you’re willing to participate in.
There’s often an expectation that awakening should feel
like peace, that as awareness increases, life becomes lighter and more aligned. In reality, awareness doesn’t immediately create ease it often creates contrast You begin to notice where things feel off, where your energy feels drained, and where you’ve been overriding your own instincts. Once that awareness is there, it doesn’t quietly fade into the background it asks to be acknowledged.
This is the part that isn’t often talked about openly. The part where awareness doesn’t feel empowering yet; it feels
disruptive. You may find yourself less available for things you once tolerated and less willing to smooth things over for the sake of keeping the peace. It can show up as irritation where there used to be patience, distance where there used to be closeness, and a growing awareness of what no longer feels aligned. You don’t become less tolerant you become less willing to abandon yourself This shift doesn’t happen because you’ve become
harder or less compassionate. If anything, it often comes from a deeper level of awareness and self-respect. There is a point where understanding someone’s behavior no longer means you continue to accept it. Understanding someone doesn’t mean you continue to accept what doesn’t feel right. That realization can feel jarring, especially when it begins to change the way you show up in your relationships and in your life.
There is also an in-between space that can feel particularly disorienting. You’re not who you used to be, but you’re not fully grounded in who you’re becoming either. You may find yourself saying less, stepping back more, and needing space in ways that feel unfamiliar. It doesn’t always feel empowering in the moment; sometimes it feels like you’re in a quiet recalibration, adjusting to something you don’t yet fully understand.
There’s a version of you that no longer fits, and a version of you that isn’t fully formed yet and you’re standing right in the middle of that.
And yet, at the very same time, something else is happening beneath the surface. In the middle of the discomfort, there are moments of clarity that feel undeniable. You begin to respond differently, not because you’re forcing change, but because something in you simply knows. These moments may be subtle at first not a full sense of peace, but glimpses of it; not a complete transformation, but a shift that feels steady and real. You can be deeply uncomfortable and deeply aligned at the same time.
There’s a reason the lotus is used as a symbol of growth, and it’s not because it bypasses the difficult parts. The lotus doesn’t bloom in spite of the mud it grows through it, rooted in the very environment that seems least conducive to beauty. It doesn’t wait until the water is clear to begin its growth; it transforms within the murkiness. The lotus doesn’t grow after the mud it grows because of it.
Personally, I used to think awakening would feel like clarity from the start Instead, it has felt like seeing things I can’t unsee and outgrowing patterns that once made sense to me. It has looked like becoming less available for what no longer feels aligned, even when that shift feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar. I’m not on the other side of this I’m just no longer willing to pretend I don’t see what I see.
What I can say is that I feel the shift. Not all at once and not perfectly, but in small, steady ways that feel real. It feels like I’ve been in the mud long enough to recognize it, and I’m just beginning to see the light. There’s something grounding about acknowledging both parts of the process instead of trying to rush toward only one.
Spiritual awakening isn’t meant to make everything feel good right away; it’s meant to make things feel true. And sometimes truth feels uncomfortable before it feels freeing. If you find yourself in that space where things feel both heavier and clearer at the same time—you’re not doing it wrong. You’re likely right in the middle of it, and that’s where the real shift begins.
Tammie is the founder of Meridian Wellness and Awakened Lakeshore in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. Through Reiki, reflexology, sound immersion, and Human Design, she supports others in navigating their own path of awareness and alignment. Her approach is grounded, practical, and centered on helping people reconnect with themselves in real, sustainable ways.
It’s also important to understand that awakening isn’t a destination you arrive at. There isn’t a final point where everything clicks into place and stays that way. It’s a process one that continues to unfold as you move through your life. What changes is your willingness to notice, to respond differently, and to follow what feels aligned for you, even when it doesn’t look the way you thought it would
There isn’t an endpoint only a path. And that path won’t look the same for everyone. You can honor where others are on their path without abandoning your own. Awakening doesn’t make your life easier it asks you to stop living out of alignment with yourself.
Submitted by Heather LaFond | Photography by Kasey Kathleen
There's a moment most people have experienced at least once.
You think about someone you haven't spoken to in months and they call you that afternoon. You walk into a room and immediately feel like something is off, even though everything looks completely normal. You make a decision that doesn't make logical sense on paper, but some quiet part of you just knows it's right. And it is.
You probably called it a coincidence. A lucky guess. A weird feeling.
What if it wasn't any of those things?
What if that was your intuition and it's been trying to get your attention for years?
Intuition gets a bad reputation in a world that worships logic. We're taught from an early age to trust data, trust evidence, trust what we can see and measure and prove. Feelings don't belong in boardrooms. Gut instincts are for people who can't think critically. And anything that sounds remotely spiritual gets filed away under "woo woo" and dismissed.
Nobody taught us to trust our intuition. We were taught to think our way through everything with logic, data, and proof. Thinking and knowing aren't the same thing. In my work as a Psychic Medium and Intuition Coach, I've seen it hundreds of times. When people finally stop overriding their intuition and start listening to it, everything shifts. Intuition isn't just a lucky guess. It's a direct line to something bigger, your Higher Self, the Universe, Spirit, God, whatever word fits your life. There is a part of you that already knows.
It has always known. And it has been trying to get your attention for years.
Most intuitive people don't walk around thinking of themselves as intuitive. They think of themselves as "sensitive," "anxious," "overly empathetic," or "someone who just has good instincts." Sound familiar?
Here are some of the most common signs that your intuition is already speaking, loudly, whether you've been listening or not.
You walk into a family gathering and within minutes you can feel the tension in the room, even though everyone's smiling. You leave certain conversations exhausted in a way that has nothing to do with how much you slept. You've probably been called "too sensitive," and it's never felt like a compliment What you're actually experiencing is clairsentience, the ability to sense and feel energy.
Maybe it's an inner voice that sounds just like your own thoughts, but somehow different, calmer, wiser, more certain. Maybe it's a song lyric that plays in your head at exactly the right moment. Maybe you've heard your name called when no one was there. This is clairaudience, the ability to receive intuitive information through sound and inner hearing.
A word drops into your mind out of nowhere. A face surfaces in your thoughts and then that person shows up in your life. You wake up at 3 a.m. with a solution to a problem you fell asleep worrying about. These aren't random brain misfires. This is claircognizance (clear knowing) and clairvoyance (clear seeing) doing exactly what they're designed to do.
A tight chest before you agree to something you shouldn't. A warm, expansive feeling when you're walking into the right room. A sudden wave of nausea when someone is lying to you. Your body is not overreacting. It's translating energy into physical language, and it almost always knows before your brain catches up.
YOU'VE HAD EXPERIENCES YOU COULDN'T EXPLAIN AND QUIETLY FILED THEM AWAY.
The dream that came true. The stranger you felt instantly connected to and later found out why. The moment you knew something had happened before anyone told you. You stopped talking about these things because someone, somewhere, made you feel like you were being dramatic. But you never forgot them.
reading this list and nodding, you're not you're not crazy, and you're definitely not
. You are intuitive. You have always been . You've just never had the language, the rk, or the permission to own it.
you're intuitive is one thing. Learning to use her.
d have the most powerful GPS on the market ar, but if you don't know how to turn it on or been trained to ignore it because it y isn't accurate," you're going to keep wrong turns. Developing your intuition is how to turn the GPS on, trust the directions, pulling over to second-guess every route.
u learn to work with your intuition nally, a few things shift.
ause the choices become obvious, but you stop outsourcing your knowing to other You stop taking ten-person polls on decisions yours to make. You stop waiting for on. You start consulting the part of you that knows.
u can feel what's true versus what someone you, you stop staying in situations past their n date. You stop ignoring red flags because e said the right thing. You start trusting the gnals over the loud performances.
isn't just for avoiding bad situations, it's a that points toward what your soul came do. Every time I've followed mine, even when
it made no logical sense, it has taken me exactly where I was supposed to go. Every time I've ignored it, I've paid for it.
And for those who feel called to spiritual work, mediumship, energy healing, or simply living a more connected life, intuition is the foundation of all of it. It is the doorway into spiritual communication. It's how you begin to distinguish what is yours from what is coming through you. Everything else is built on that discernment.
I've spent years teaching people how to understand their intuitive gifts, move through the blocks that shut them down, and step into the version of themselves who trusts what they know.
If this article is landing for you, if something in your body just shifted while you read it, that's not a coincidence, either.
There are two ways to go deeper with me. If you're ready to explore on your own timeline, my InSpirit Sessions are private one-on-one intuitive coaching containers designed to meet you exactly where you are. And if you're ready to immerse yourself fully, my You ARE Intuitive day-and-a-half intensive happening July 25 & 26, 2026 at SoundSpace USA in Manitowoc, Wisconsin is a limited-seat, all-levels experience that takes you from the foundations all the way through to owning your gifts completely.
HeatherLaFondisaPsychicMedium,Shamanic EnergyTherapist,ReikiMaster,Certified Hypnotherapist,NLP&TimelineTherapy Practitioner,andIntuitionCoachbasedin Manitowoc,Wisconsin.SheistheauthorofRise &Roar:UnleashYourInnerPowerandthe creatoroftheYouAREIntuitiveImmersion.
YOU'VE BEEN INTUITIVE YOUR WHOLE LIFE. IT'S TIME TO START LIVING LIKE IT.
HEATHER LaFOND Psychic Medium Shaman Soul Activation Coach 920-973-1977 @heather.soar wellness heather@heatherlafond.com HeatherLaFond.com
By Lisa K. Adams, Photography from Moon+stone
Moon+stone is a peaceful sanctuary for mind, body, and spirit in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. While they specialize in sound meditations and calming self-care experiences, they also have intentional products for sale that are rooted in care and encourage you to slow down this summer to return to your natural state of well-being. Each item is an invitation to reconnect with yourself to feel lighter, clearer, and more vibrant this summer. Find these tools in their new space on Madison Avenue or online at moon-and-stone.com.
These crystal kits are carefully curated for your zodiac sign to resonate with your personality traits. So whether you’re a Gemeni, Cancer, Leo, or your birthday falls later in the year, you’ll find one uniquely suited for you. Perfect for deepening your connection to the cosmos, harnessing the power of your star sign, or as a thoughtful gift.
Put self-care on your summer to-do list with this 55-card deck with guide book by Jill Pyle. Ask questions like “What do I need to feel grounded today?” or “How can I more fully connect with my intuition?” You’ll find meaning in these whimsically illustrated cards and guidance from the indepth book for mantras, journal prompts, and more.
Cradled in an Abalone shell with energetic clearing tools like herbal sage, palo santo, and selenite, this kit will kickstart your purification process this summer. Burn sage or palo santo to clear your home, office, or objects and tuck the selenite under your bed to help cleanse your energy field while you sleep. Each kit is handmade and may differ from photo.
MOON+STONE moon-and-stone.com 24 S Madison Ave | Sturgeon Bay, WI
Submitted by Scott Bartell, 7 Stones Acupuncture & Wellness
Art © zorotoo via Canva.com
There is a subtle but meaningful distinction between reacting and responding. On the surface, they can appear nearly identical—both are forms of action, both arise in response to something outside of us but the internal state from which they emerge is entirely different.
To react is to move quickly, often unconsciously. It is an action shaped by emotion before the present moment has fully revealed itself. In many cases, a reaction is not truly about what is happening now. Instead, it is guided by something older an unresolved experience that the body recognizes as familiar, and therefore potentially unsafe.
The human nervous system is designed for survival. It is constantly scanning the environment for cues of safety or threat. When something in the present resembles a past experience that carried stress or discomfort, the body does not pause to analyze the nuance. It recognizes a pattern and moves into action.
From a physiological perspective, this process is driven by the sympathetic nervous system the branch responsible for mobilization, often referred to as the “fight or flight” response.
Heart rate increases, breath becomes shallow, and the body prepares to act. This response is intelligent and necessary in moments of true danger.
However, in modern life, many of the triggers we encounter are not life-threatening. A conversation, a misunderstanding, or a moment of uncertainty can activate the same physiological cascade if it resonates with something unresolved from the past.
When this happens, we are not simply reacting to the present we are reacting through the lens of memory.
deepens, perception expands, and the body becomes receptive rather than defensive.
From here, there is space. And within that space, there is choice.
A response does not ignore emotion, but it is not driven solely by it. It allows emotion and awareness to work together It takes into account what is actually happening, rather than what has already happened. It is shaped by presence, not just pattern.
The ability to respond instead of react is often thought of as a mental or emotional skill. But in
practice, it is just as much a physiological one. Many individuals find themselves aware of their patterns, yet still caught in them. This is not a lack of understanding it is a reflection of how deeply these responses are held within the body.
Within the framework of Kototama Inochi Medicine, health is understood as a harmonious expression of life’s underlying patterns— vibrational, physical, and energetic. When the system is in balance, there is fluidity in how we experience and respond to the world. When it is not, we begin to see rigidity—repetitive reactions, persistent tension, and a diminished capacity to adapt.
Chronic activation of the sympathetic nervous system plays a central role in this imbalance. Over time, the body can remain in a low-level state of stress, even in the absence of immediate threat. This leads to the accumulation of unprocessed stress hormones and a nervous system that becomes increasingly reactive.
This is where acupuncture can play a meaningful role in supporting both physical and emotional health.
Through regular acupuncture treatment, the body is gently guided toward a more regulated state. One of the most consistent benefits observed in clinical practice is a shift in the baseline of the central nervous system. The body becomes more familiar with the parasympathetic state—not as something temporary, but as something sustainable.
At 7 Stones Acupuncture, this shift is often where deeper healing begins.
As the nervous system regulates, the body gains the capacity to process what has previously been held. Stress hormones that were mobilized but not fully discharged can begin to move through the system. Muscular tension softens. Breath becomes more natural. The system begins to update its understanding of what is safe.
THIS PROCESS IS NOT FORCED IT UNFOLDS.
And as it does, the patterns that once drove automatic reactions begin to change.
Situations that previously felt overwhelming may no longer carry the same intensity. The body does not respond as quickly or as strongly. There is a growing sense of space between stimulus and action. In that space, a different kind of choice becomes available.
This is the shift from reacting to responding not as an abstract concept, but as a lived experience supported by a more balanced nervous system.
Awareness remains an important part of this process The ability to notice internal signals— changes in breath, tension in the body, emotional surges creates the opportunity to pause. But when this awareness is supported by a regulated physiology, the pause becomes more accessible, more natural.
FORTHOSELOOKINGTOCULTIVATETHISSHIFTINTHEIRDAILY LIVES,AFEWSIMPLEPRACTICESCANBEHELPFUL:
1.NOTICETHEBODY’SSIGNALS
Payattentiontotheearlysignsofactivation.Thesemayincludeshallow breathing,increasedheartrate,orasenseofurgency.Thesesignalsoften precedereactivebehavior
2.CREATEASMALLPAUSE
Evenoneortwoslow,consciousbreathscanbegintoshiftthenervoussystem outofareactivestate.
3.BROADENAWARENESS
Gentlytakeinmoreofthepresentmoment.Whatisactuallyhappening, beyondtheinitialtrigger?
4.ALLOWEMOTIONTOBEPRESENT
Aresponseisnottheabsenceoffeeling.Itistheabilitytoincludeemotion withoutbeingovertakenbyit.
5.SUPPORTTHESYSTEMCONSISTENTLY
Practicessuchasacupuncture,mindfulbreathing,andrestorativemovement canhelpestablishamoreregulatedbaselineovertime.
The movement from reaction to response is not about suppressing instinct or becoming detached. It is about restoring balance within the body, the nervous system, and the way we engage with the world around us.
When the body is no longer held in a constant state of vigilance, the present moment becomes clearer. We are no longer filtering every experience through the lens of the past.
Instead, we are able to meet what is in front of us with greater accuracy, greater awareness, and greater ease.
FROM THIS PLACE, OUR ACTIONS
Not because we are forcing them to, but because the system from which they arise has shifted.
And within that shift, something important becomes available again:
THE ABILITY TO CHOOSE GROUNDED NOT IN REACTION, BUT IN A MORE INTEGRATED, RESPONSIVE RELATIONSHIP WITH THE PRESENT MOMENT.
7 STONES ACUPUNCTURE & WELLNESS
7stonesacupuncture.com sevenstones.acupuncture@gmail.com
INSTITUTE OF AMERICAN ACUPUNCTURE & LIFE MEDICINE iaalm.org
JUN 4
6:15 PM - 8:45 PM
THE POWER OF HEALING WITH COLOR
@Angel Light Center
Learn how to create colored balls of light to help heal the physical body, along with its emotional, mental, and spiritual counterparts. $44
Art © TrueCreatives, Ivan S, Stefan Malloch, Valmedia via Canva.com Events are subject to change. Verify details directly with businesses.
MOCKTAILS & MESSAGES
angellightshopping.com
@Bee’s Emporium Cafe JUN 5 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
An intimate evening designed to relax your body and spark your spirit with a curated trio of Bee’s handcrafted mocktails, French macaroons, and a personal reading with Heather LaFond. $77.77
awakenedlakeshore.com JUN 5 6:30 PM
COLLECTIVE HEARTBEAT RHYTHM CIRCLE
@Awakened Lakeshore
Drumming and the percussive arts are primal, powerful, and healing. You don’t need any musical experience to participate. Bring your own drum or percussion instruments, or there will be a few to share. Donation.
gaiasmoonsunapothecary.com
JUNE 3
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
SOUL SPEAK
@Runic Apothecary
Find your community of like-minded, spiritually awakened souls. In this safe and nurturing environment, every voice is honored, every story matters, and every heart is welcome. This is your invitation to share, to learn, to laugh, to cry, and to rise. Free event.
runicapothecarygb.com
JUN 6
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
SETTLE INTO STILLNESS
@SoundSpace USA
Roots and Wings Tour: Sound Journey, thoughtfully crafted to lead you inward while immersed in a soundscape woven from handpan, didgeridoo, gongs, crystal bowls, and more. $35-$45 soundspaceusa.com
JUN 6
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
CRYSTAL HEALING
@Fox Cities Wellness Center
Learn about common crystals and their properties as well as how to program, charge, and cleanse these precious stones. $77
6/10, 7/11 & 7/20
5:00 PM - 5:45 PM
RELEASE
@Awakened Lakeshore
A 45-minute guided movement and meditation experience designed to help you let go of stress, reconnect with your body, and release tension. No dance experience necessary. $10
foxcitieswellnesscenter.com awakenedlakeshore.com
JUN 13
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
DRUM MAKING WORKSHOP
@Golden Light Healing
Learn how to craft your own ceremonial hand drum. Learn the various medicine gifts each animal brings and choose from buffalo or elk hide. $225 includes all materials to create a 15" ceremonial drum and stick.
glh.as.me
JUN 13 | 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
@Civic Center, Shawano
AUG 22 | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
@Radisson Hotel, Fond du Lac
A day of insight, healing, and high-vibe energy. Free speakers throughout the day, amazing vendors, intuitive readings, energy healing, crystals, spiritual tools, natural health products, holistic wellness items, handmade goods, and more. Free gift bag for the first 25 guests. $5 entry fee
bewellnaturallynow.com
JUN 19
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
CRYSTAL BOWL SOUND BATH
@Runic Apothecary
A Summer Solstice themed crystal bowl sound bath session set to relaxing background meditation music for the ultimate mind, body, and soul experience. Limited yoga mats and blankets available. $20
JUN 20 - 21
4:30 PM - 4:30 PM
WAKING THE WILD WITHIN
@Plymouth, WI
A Spiritual Wellness
Retreat calling upon the wild archetype lying dormant within you. Includes energy work, breath, meditation, and intuitive practices from five gifted practitioners. $188
runicapothecarygb.com runicapothecarygb.com
JUN 20
5:30 PM - 11:30 PM
SUMMER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION
@7 Stones Acupuncture and Wellness
Cowabunga Grilled Cheese food truck, music starts around 6:30pm with “Righteous Ki” followed by Nick & Mark from “Advance.” Bonfire and s’mores. Bring a lawnchair and your own beverages.
7stonesacupuncture.com
6/16, 7/14, 8/25
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
SOUND IMMERSION MEDITATION
@Awakened Lakeshore
Embark on a truly transformative sound experience with the capitvating tones of crystal-infused quartz bowls, the mesmerizing rain stick, the soothing ocean drum, and the enchanting Koshi chimes. Donations accepted.
awakenedlakeshore.com
JUN 26 5:30 PM
SOUNDBODY METHOD™
3-DAY TRAINING
@SoundSpace USA
Learn how to integrate sound into your one-onone wellness practice with this hands-on training for practitioners. Limited coupons available for $200 off with code SOUNDBODY26.
JUN 26 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
BEING GOOD ENOUGH
@Runic Apothecary
Stepping Out of the Story and Into Your Strength. Examine what shaped your beliefs about being not good enough and learn how to release them. $35
soundspaceusa.com runicapothecarygb.com
GOLDEN LIGHT SCENT + SOUND EXPERIENCE
@Moon+stone
A sensory journey into warmth, vitality, and inner radiance. Inspired by the start of summer, this experience invites you to soften into the present moment while awakening your natural energy and confidence within. Through sound, journaling, and essential oils, you’ll be guided through layers of grounding, opening, and activation. $55
moon-and-stone.com JUN 28 4:30 PM
JUL 11
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
MAKE AND TAKE RATTLE WORKSHOP
@Awakened Lakeshore
A fun afternoon of crafting, connection, and intention as you create your own sacred rattle with Booster Taddy and infuse it with your own intention, creativitiy, and personal energy. $50 awakenedlakeshore.com
JUL 12 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
DANDELION: MORE THAN JUST A WEED @Bee’s Emporium Cafe
A Dandelion Salve Workshop where you’ll discover the many gifts of dandelion from root to bloom. You’ll leave with your own handcrafted dandelion salve. $55.55
JUL 19 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
ASTROLOGY & HUMAN DESIGN @Awakened Lakeshore
Explore healing and conditioning: What Isn’t Mine to Carry. Understand yourself better by identifying patterns, learning how expectations shape your choices, and begin releasing. $59
gaiasmoonsunapothecary.com awakenedlakeshore.com
JUL 26
4:30 PM
SUMMER EXHALE SCENT + SOUND EXPERIENCE
@Moon+stone
A cooling, restorative experience designed for the height of summer. A gentle journaling practice, you’ll be guided through an intentional exploration of each essential oil, and settle into a soothing sound meditation. $55
moon-and-stone.com
You've been seeing the signs. The numbers, the synchronicities, the dreams that come true and you know something is trying to reach you. This is an intimate, powerful day-and-a-half experience where you'll finally learn to decode what you've been receiving, clear what's been blocking your signal, and walk away with the tools to trust yourself fully.
3 total classes — 10 hours 30 minutes @ $444
YOU ARE INTUITIVE @SoundSpace USA soundspaceusa.com JUL 25 - JUL 26 9:00 AM
JUL 26
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
ABUNDANCE BOWL WORKSHOP
@Bee’s Emporium Cafe
Create your own intentional abundance bowl using carefully chosen elements traditionally associated with prosperity, opportunity, grounding, focus, and growth. $55.55
AUG 13 6:15 PM - 7:30 PM
BEACH YOGA & SOUND IMMERSION
@Neshotah Beach
This sacred evening blends long-held Yin postures, meditation, and breathwork with the live, healing resonance of crystal singing bowls, ocean drum, and hand drum. $33
gaiasmoonsunapothecary.com awakenedlakeshore.com
Submitted
by
Jessica Clayborn, Inward Path Counseling Art © Tugba via Canva.com, Headshot by miss lady jane studios
shines more and the temperature is milder, we come out of hibernation and wherever you go, everyone seems just a little bit happier. People spend more time talking to their neighbors or friends they see at the grocery store and there just seems to be more joyful energy in the air. I began to wonder: How do we cultivate that? How do we bring that joy to our daily lives during any time of year?
“The eyes are the garden to the soul” is a quote that I find both beautiful and educational. For me, this simple quote describes how what we witness, what we experience, makes an imprint on our deeper, spiritual self. I have found that our eyes express far more than what we are seeing in the present moment. Sometimes I see deep pain, sorrow, or sadness, and sometimes I see light and joy from a person’s eyes. I believe our eyes are a reflection of our human experiences, and this is why making
Jessica Clayborn, MA, LPC, SACIT, specializes in Couples Counseling and Substance Abuse Counseling, working collaboratively with you to develop a trusting and safe environment that builds on your strengths.
light than dark in our eyes?
One profound way to expand our light is simply by upgrading our sensory diet. Our inner spark burns brighter when we consciously filter the sensory currents of the world. I think we are often so task-driven and distracted we forget to consider what we are seeing, hearing, touching, smelling If we listen to sad music, most likely, we will be sad and the converse is true. Happy and joyful music cultivates happiness and joy. Not to say that we can completely change the state of our souls, but perhaps we can be more intentional with what we expose ourselves to and experience. Much like our thoughts create our emotions, our senses impact our spiritual state. I ask you to consider, what are the things your eyes see? What kinds of noises do you hear and what kind of music do you listen to? How are you tending to the garden of your soul?
615 S 8 St , Ste 240A th Sheboygan, WI inwardpathcounseling.com
Connect with others on the spiritual path in the online community. The Explore the Awakened Facebook group provides spiritual and healing resources in northeast Wisconsin and beyond. Whether you're newly awakened or a seasoned spiritual seeker, we hope to light the way on your spiritual journey from the shores of Lake Michigan.
Never miss an issue! Make a committment to keep moving forward on your spiritual path by subscribing to Explore the Awakened today. Each season you’ll receive inspiration and a reminder that you are not alone. Scan the QR code or visit our website to subscribe now.
FALL ISSUE RELEASED: SEPTEMBER 8, 2026
Reach newly awakened and seasoned spiritual seekers to help light the way on their spiritual journey. Share your business with the readers of Explore the Awakened magazine. Advertising rates are reasonable and include complimentary features for annual advertisers.
FALL DEADLINE: AUGUST 10, 2026
We are always looking for contributors, so if you have something to add to the conversation, please visit the website to make a submission for possible inclusion in a future issue of the Explore the Awakened magazine.
FALL DEADLINE: AUGUST 21, 2026
By Lisa K. Adams Creative
exploretheawakened.com connect@exploretheawakened.com @exploretheawakened