The Life Connection Magazine - February 2015

CONSCIOUSNESS | NUTRITION | ENVIRONMENT

February 2015

Alive Inside: Music & Dementia The Hope in Bad News World's Greenest Country Pain: Symbols & Acceptance Carlsbad Faves Ancient India's 5 Words for Love

COMMUNITY

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HEALTH

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Our Quality of Life is About the Connections We Make

Michael Cotton

Higher Brain Living A New Brain. A New Beginning.

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Gift yourself this month of love and relationship.

Make the most important relationship you have . . . be the one with yourself.

2 | The Life Connection

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CONSCIOUSNESS

Tao is The Source. Tao is The Way of all life.

Tao is the universal principles and laws.

– Master Sha

Beginning as The Light Connection in late 1985, we became The Life Connection in 2010. We felt the name was more inclusive and expansive; and we have seen through the years that our quality of life is about the connections we make. That’s our purpose — to connect people. We are the oldest and bestknown publication of our kind in San Diego, and have many advertisers who have been with us for years.

The Life Connection is well-known as a resource guide to activities, quality products and professional services of interest to the audience called “Cultural Creatives” — people eager for information on personal growth and effectiveness, alternative and optimum health, and living environmentally friendly.

Over the years we have developed a loyal readership that appreciates useful, meaningful articles.

In addition to wanting all kinds of everyday products and services, our readers have the disposable income to spend on enhancing the quality of their life and well-being.

For an independent publication to survive for over 28 years is unusual and a tribute to our readers and advertisers. Along the way we’ve met and partnered with many successful and interesting people. We hope to partner with you and support your success as well.

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Greetings

from the publisher The Hope in Bad News Whether these are hopeful times or not pretty much depends on whom you listen to.

Some people think things are getting better and for others it looks like the end-times.

But couldn't some "bad news" we hear about just as easily be good news too?

Some economists are hopeful now and say things are on an upward swing—but we also know that they calculate good a little differently from others in our society.

Economists focus on growth, not whether it benefits the majority of our population or not.

I'm beginning to wonder if the growth they measure—emphasizing profit growth—isn't simply another form of inflammation; and we know how bad inflammation can be for us. Maybe it isn't always a universal good for US either.

When we look around the world, it's easy to find examples of "ain't it awful." There's no shortage of bad news we can worry about.

We hear about violence both at home and in the world. Have the police gone too far or is it the people they deal with that have? Yet it is also appears gang violence has gone down and there is now less violence in the US. Although discrimination can ultimately affect us all, the good news is that, for most of us, violence is not part of our daily lives.

There are other issues that do affect the quality of our lives, such as the air we breathe and the water we drink. How will we power ourselves? Will the earth be able to sustain us the way we use the resources it provides?

In many ways many issues today deal with the classical four basic elements: earth, air, water and fire—fire being how we power ourselves.

We can pay attention to how they are used or we might find ourselves in the position Detroit does. A judge there recently declared that unless the poor can pay for it, water is not a right or something people are entitled to.

Isn't Detroit next to a lake? Who does that belong to? Perhaps the judge thinks of it as a water hazard on his golf course. I've got 4 | The Life Connection

the idea that our Constitution was ultimately about ensuring that vital common resources were used for the common good.

It was said years ago—water is the next oil (as a profit generator). Is air next? To me that's outrageous. Yes, that's bad news. So why do I still think bad news can be hopeful?

The bottom line is: the worse it gets, the more likely it is to change. More than ever can't we see that greed and the desire by a powerful few to collect as many toys as possible is a child's game? Does it work for a society with tenets such as ours?

When it comes to the police shooting unarmed people, don't we want to know about it and look closer? It's tragic if people are unnecessarily killed; but if we don't know about it, will it ever change?

The unfortunate truth about human nature was offered in the book The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg (Random House, 2012). Duhigg looks at our habits and patterns, and the challenge of changing routines for individuals, organizations and society.

He gives numerous examples of what happens before change occurs. One was how it took a major fire in a London subway in 1987 to change inadequate fire prevention systems that everyone knew needed to be changed. It took a fire that killed 31 people to change the system.

He showed how toxic communication patterns between doctors and nurses in a Rhode Island Hospital led to a patient dying unnecessarily. After that all parties agreed that change was needed, and they made changes.

If we are true to form, it may take a crisis to get enough people to see that changes are needed. I'd like to think we could notice and change before that, but Duhigg makes a strong case that it's not our pattern.

We all know driving petroleum-powered cars pollutes the air for everyone. We know it contributes to asthma in children—but the majority of us don't think about that when we

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—continued on page 29

THE LIFE CONNECTION february 2015 | vol 31 issue 2

publisher/editor expansion design

Steve Hays Amelia Leigh Kate Griffin

production

Timothy Brittain

distribution

Fusion

research bookkeeping writers

Jennifer Joe Deborah Clark David Gersten, M.D. Penelope Young Steve Hays Amelia Leigh Jennifer Joe Doug Moss Roddy Scheer Richard Schiffman

LifeConnectionMag THE LIFE CONNECTION P.O. Box 789 Vista CA 92085-0789 LifeConnectionMagazine.com

AD TIMELINE for March CALENDAR, CLASSIFIED & DIRECTORY ADS due by Feb 15 DISPLAY ADS due by Feb 20 INQUIRIES? (760) 631-1177 (760) 631-1144 LifeConnection@cox.net

contents

february 2015

vol 31 issue 2

TLC is distributed the first of each month, and provides a guide to San Diego County’s resources for improving your health,the environment, relationships, and expanding human potential.

COMMUNITY | HEALTH | ENVIRONMENT | NUTRITION | CONSCIOUSNESS

departments

features

From the Publisher | 4

Carlsbad Local Faves | 8

by Amelia Leigh

What’s News | 5 5

Qigong Classes, VISION's 8th Anniversary, Alive Inside, Scripps Natural Healing Supplements Conference

8

Interview with Michael Cotton

by Amelia Leigh & Steve Hays

Alternative Health

by David Gersten, MD

Calendar of Events | 14

16

Classified Ads | 15

the tlc staff

Steve Hays | Publisher

Amelia Leigh | Expansion

Knowing Them Can Heighten Your Happiness

by Richard Schiffman

World's Greenest Country

Transformational Talk

by Penelope Young-Andrade

Resource Directory | 24

Ancient India's 5 Words for Love | 20

EarthTalk® | 22

Afraid of Love? | 21 23

by Jennifer Joe

Higher Brain Living | 16

Pain: Symbols & Acceptance | 12

20

More Than Chocolate | 10

22

San Diego Farmer's Markets | 23

Timothy Brittain | Production

Kate Griffin | Graphics

www.LifeConnectionMagazine.com

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what’s news Master Chunyi Lin in Encinitas for Qigong Classes "The truth is: "I was Born A Healer And You Were Born A Healer Too!" – you may not be aware of it; however, you have amazing healing power within you and I’m going to share with you exactly how you can access it." ~Master Chunyi Lin Certified International Qigong Master Chunyi Lin is arriving Master Chunyi Lin in Encinitas Feb. 19 at a most auspicious time, Chinese New Year! Master Lin is the founder and creator of Spring Forest Qigong (SFQ), co-author of the #1 Amazon.com bestseller Born A Healer and co-author with Dr. Nisha Manek (of the Mayo Clinic) on a chapter about qigong, which was published in The Textbook of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Second Edition.

Master Lin will present a week of workshops and classes: - Thurs, Feb 19: Public Talk and Heart Meditation - Fri/Sat, Feb 20-21: Born A Healer Workshop - Mon, Feb 23: Level One: Healing Yourself - Tues/Wed, Feb 24-25: Level Two: Becoming a Healer Spring Forest Qigong is a simple, but very powerful practice.

SFQ is based on the understanding that everything in the universe is energy. When the body's energy is out of balance it can lead to energy blockages in the body resulting in disease.

Additionally, disease causes the body's natural healing system to breakdown and malfunction. Master Lin designed a technique that is so simple for people to learn, but is very powerful, efficient and effective. Anyone and everyone regardless of ability, age or belief can practice the technique of SFQ and lead a much healthier and happier life. Master Lin emphasizes how to bring out the unconditional love from your heart (which is the most powerful healing energy for all beings).

Everyone has the ability to heal one's self and to help others

Integrative dentistry San Diego Holistic Dental Care

Carey O’Rielly, DDS

6 | The Life Connection

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heal physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. The Spring Forest Qigong Center is located in Minnesota, which usually requires long distance travel to attend workshops and classes.

It is an incredible BLESSING to have Master Lin come to Encinitas and present his teachings during Chinese New Year!

Master Lin will share his healing energy, teach his philosophy of "you were born a healer" and guide you through the technique of Spring Forest Qigong. Since coming to the United States in 1995, Master Lin has helped more than a quarter of a million people learn about the powerful healing benefits of Spring Forest Qigong, helping these people to overcome serious health challenges and return to optimal wellness. His desire is to spread his vision of "a healer in every family and a world without pain."

Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn the SFQ technique directly from Master Lin in our community! Join us February 19 - 25, 2015 in Encinitas, CA. Register on-line: www.springforestqigong.com Phone: (952) 593-5555. Location: All workshop and classes will be at: Seaside Center for Spiritual Living, 1613 Lake Drive, Encinitas, CA 92024

VISION Celebrates 8th Anniversary This Month February 11, 2007 was the day that VISION opened its door for the first time. This year, the Spiritual Center and Senior & Founding Minister, Rev Patti Paris celebrates its 8th Anniversary with a month filled with special guest speakers, musicians and award winning films. On Feb. 5, the award winning film, Alive Inside will start the celebration to be followed Sunday, Feb. 8 with an Anniversary Party and New Member ceremony.

On Thursday, Feb. 19 the first special guest Christian Wasinger (who is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist and Neuron Linguistic Certified Trainer) will conduct a talk and workshop that will teach Rev. Dr. Kathy Hearn the attendees how to program

The Healthy, Beautiful Smile You Always Dreamed of ...

The Experienced Holistic Dentist You Can Trust

their subconscious mind to achieve their life goals. Rev. Dr. Kathy Hearn, the past spiritual leader on the international United Centers for Spiritual Living, will be the very Special Guest Speaker at the Sunday Celebration on Feb. 22 at 10am.

Her talk will be on how to deepen our faith and live a practical spiritual life. The Anniversary month concludes on Feb. 28, with a concert by Folk Musician Peter Meyer whose music spans the sacred and the humorous. When listening to his songs of the human journey, it is easy to sit back, close your eyes and enjoy the superior acoustics of the VISION sanctuary. His music celebrates the world’s mystery and that point where science and spirituality meet.

Visit www.visioncsl.com for further information and directions for these events and the others that fill the VISION calendar.

Film Documents Effect of Music on Dementia Alive Inside is the winner of the 2014 Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival and will be showing at 7pm on Feb 5. It is a remarkable movie that documents the amazing effects of the use of music therapy on Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. The music awakens memories in the person, it socializes them in a way they haven’t been before, it calms them, and, most importantly, it brings a smile to their faces. Patients who have been sitting slumped in a wheelchair for years, not only began to sing but to dance.

Filmmaker Michael RossatoBennett chronicles the experiences of these individuals around the country who have been revitalized through music.

The documentary follows social worker, Dan Cohen, founder of the nonprofit organization Music and Memory "as he fights a broken healthcare system to demonstrate music's ability to combat memory loss." The 78-minute film that is truly remarkable and chronicles the miraculous effects of personalized music in restoring a deep sense of self to those suffering from it. By placing earphones connected to iPods which have been loaded with the patient’s favorite music, Mr. Cohen brings the individual back into the world of the living.

Rossato-Bennett visits family members who have witnessed the miraculous effects and offers interviews with experts including renowned neurologist and bestselling author Oliver Sacks (Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain) and musician Bobby McFerrin ("Don't Worry, Be Happy"). The transformation of these people is remarkable to see. It is a film that transforms the viewer and makes them look at people in the grips of these diseases in a new and loving way. It left audiences humming, clapping and cheering at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival.

The movie is offered on a love-offering basis. Visit www. visioncsl.com for directions and a calendar of other events for February.

Scripps Natural Healing Supplements Conference At the recent Annual Scripps Natural Healing Supplements Conference, held in January, scientific evidence was presented that food choices and certain supplements can improve health and symptoms of disease. Many Americans are self-prescribing and spending in excess of $30 billion annually on herbal and dietary supplements to address their health concerns. The conference gave care providers and consumers evidence-based information in order to address the risks and benefits of supplements.

In future issues we will share more that representatives from TLC gained from the conference. Here are a few Take-Away Tips: 1) The three main supplements discussed were- Omega 3 –fatty acids contain both DHA and EPA. They are very important in preventing and managing heart disease. Findings show Omega-3 fish oil may also help to: Lower blood pressure, reduce triglycerides, slow the development of plaque in the arteries, and improve brain function. Magnesium - Important in more than 300 chemical reactions that keep the body working properly.

Dietary sources of magnesium include legumes, whole grains, vegetables, seeds, and nuts. Vitamin D3 - is also used for a variety of ailments and to help boost the immune system. It can help prevent autoimmune diseases and even cancer. In addition, it will treat osteoporosis, bone pain, and conditions related to the heart and blood vessels (including high blood pressure and high cholesterol). It is also used for diabetes, obesity, muscle weakness, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, COPD, asthma, bronchitis, PMS, skin conditions and tooth/gum disease.

2) Read the labels. Make sure you are ingesting quality products. A good indication is if they mention the main ingredient in the Latin origin of the species (ex. Arnica Montana). Look to see if they specify the part of the plant being used, such as the root, leaf, flower, etc.

3) We have all heard to buy organic, yet it can get expensive.

It is very important to purchase some fruits and vegetables that more easily absorb pesticides. The FDA came out with the clean fifteen and dirty dozen.

Permaculture Voices March 4-8 Permaculture Voices (PV) is bringing together a diverse group of creative and innovative doers in a variety of fields looking to share knowledge and connect. Create in ways that increase passion, purpose and profit. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from innovators such as: Paul Stamets, Allan Savory, Mark Shepard, Diana Leaf Christian, and many more solutionaries.

PV2 blends the practical techniques found in workshops with the entrepreneurial spirit and opportunity of a business conference.

The programming tracks and workshops highlight innovators, sharing their stories of what’s working in a wide variety of areas and applications ranging from: Permaculture design, Farming, Technology, Energy generation, Plants / Soil / Fungi, Social Permaculture, Business, and more. The PV2 experience is all about connection. So come, learn, step up, take action, and move forward at PV2 during March 4-8, at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina. For details, to register, or listen to podcasts, visit www.permaculturevoices.com. www.LifeConnectionMagazine.com

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\\\ Carlsbad Community \\\

LOCAL FAVES

Welcome to the new Local Faves column. While exploring the area, I want to get to know the locals and feature places that leave a positive impression. There are so many great small communities that make up this amazing big city. Let's start connecting!

by Amelia Leigh

Viz Art Studio | 2906 State Street, Carlsbad, CA 92008 (760)434-2628 | www.VizArtInk.com

Gregg “Viz” Visintainer is an extreme doodle artist whose unique artwork contains hidden pictures, words and messages. He is a self-taught artist who always loved to draw as a kid, but never thought he could pursue art as a career until recently.

Drawing was his way to pass time in school and express how he felt.

At age 24, Viz created a piece titled, “Lonely World” that took three months and over 250 hours to complete. He realized drawing could be his outlet and art became his therapy and meditation. From that day on Viz continued to draw and let his mind and hands express his feelings. Viz Art Ink was born and became his own signature style.

Viz Art Ink is hand drawn, using pen and ink. From afar, there is a main image but up-close you will find hidden pictures, words, messages and a lot of meaning that relates to each theme. It takes Viz on average about 60-80 hours to complete an art piece. His style has gained recognition throughout Southern California and in the action sports industry. In the last three years he has worked with Element Skateboards, Volcom, DC Shoes, Grateful Dead, Disney and others.

In January of 2013 he opened his own gallery in Carlsbad, CA. His gallery showcases Viz Art Ink and over 20 different local artists. Viz's goal is to share his art and story with as many people as possible. He speaks at different events and schools throughout California to motivate and inspire the youth. Viz hopes to travel the world and leave his mark everywhere he goes. He truly is a genuinely nice guy. Go in and check out his cool art. It is amazing up close (and afar). Neat items from the locals too. Tell him Amelia sent you.

Carlsbad Alkaline Water & Spa | 2802 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008 | (760)434-1887

Carlsbad Mineral Water was discovered in 1882 by Capt. John Frazier when he drilled a well for his farm near the beach. The alkaline mineral water cured a stomach ailment from which Capt. Frazier had suffered for years. Intrigued, he sent samples of the water to two independent testing laboratories in New York and Chicago. The results showed his water was chemically very similar to the healing spring mineral waters found in a famous European spa resort that was at that time called Carlsbad, in Bohemia (Today, the city is Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic, and is still famous for its therapeutic spas.)

Frazier then plotted his farm for a city that he called Carlsbad. He also started bottling his water and selling it across the nation as (The American) Carlsbad Mineral Water. He built a huge Victorian hotel beside his original well, and people came from all over the world and included at least two U.S. presidents enjoying the alkaline mineral water for drinking and for bathing.

I happened to stumble across this spa and fell in love with the alkaline water bath soak before my massage. What a great way to relax before a body treatment. My massage therapist and aesthetician, Khrista Mauldin, was beyond amazing. She is what made the experience truly exceptional. She has such an incredible healing touch and a very inspirational story. Definitely check her out! She works magic!

You can go anywhere for a massage, yet she is worth your time. You can book an appointment through Carlsbad Alkaline Spa or book directly with her (she can be mobile and even come to you). Reach Khrista at (619) 990-8049 or email her at khrista2@hotmail.com.

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Beach City Smoothies

| 594 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008 | (760)729-0011 Beach City Smoothies has been a favorite Carlsbad eatery since November 2006, and is locally owned by Mary Jacobson and her daughter, Jamie.

They show every guest fast and friendly service. I have gotten at least one (sometimes a few more) acai bowls each trip over the past few months. It is one of the best and highest quality, great tasting healthy treats I have ever tasted. Acai is a rich, berry-cocoa flavored fruit that tastes amazing and is so good for you. We do not have them back East. They are delicious and always a must!!

Beach City is operated by a friendly and knowledgeable team of "smoothieologists" who take pride in being the best smoothie shop in Carlsbad (and beyond). Their 100% pure fruit smoothies are packed with nutrients and only the finest fully matured vine and tree ripened fruit and fruit juices are used. The 24oz smoothies pack the power of 6 servings of fruit with no added sugar or dairy! The newest super fruit, Pitaya, is definitely the most colorful fruit in the shop. It is a bright magenta color with a refreshing tropical taste that will delight your senses.

Lady and The Chef | Chef Fun Guy@ facebook Lady-andthe-Chef.com | (909)261-0333

James Stewart (aka Chef Fun Guy) has been working in restaurants since he was 14 and went to culinary school around 20. He graduated being known as the chef with the flavor. I ran into James during my first trip to San Diego at the farmers market. Not many people know about the health benefits of the reishi mushroom. He is beyond knowledgeable about all kinds of mushrooms. Whether you want to know about the nutritional value, the science behind the plant, or how to blend them in your dish for dinner, this guy knows the answer.

“With all of the many foods around the world I've been lucky enough to be introduced to, I always held mushrooms at the top of my list. I have only tried 49 different varieties of the 1800 edible mushrooms out there. Now I run mushroom stands in San Diego, San Bernardino, OC and Riverside counties. I also have a flavored butter and truffle line of products. I currently sell to 4 restaurants, 2 food trucks and am in 2 store-front markets. Just getting started.”

The mushrooms sold mainly come from the Hokto farm in San Marcos (Maitake, Brown beech, White beech, King trumpets) and Mountain Meadows Farm in Escondido (Crimini, Shiitake, Portabella). Try to stay local and close to a region of a fantastic variety of wild mushrooms.

Seasonal flavors are mixed by hand to bring you Gourmet Flavored Butters that are easy to add to any meal. Eat straight on bread or bagels, add to rice and pasta dishes, even cook with meats and veggies, our Gourmet Butters add life to any dish! The Lady and the Chef lines feature two different types of products: savory and sweet.

The Lady – Sweet - Fruits, chocolates, and sugars are just some of the sweet ingredients that make these Butters so decadent. Honey, Raspberry and Brown Sugar Butter go great on waffles or used in baking.

The Chef – Savory - These products feature things like herbs and spices, garlic and onion, chilies and peppers; everything needed to give any meal an intense flavor boost. Garlic, Porcini, and Jalapeno Butter and many more.

Garden Lather Soaps | (760)715-9507 If you have ever tried handcrafted soap before, you and your skin have felt a luxurious treat. Garden lather soaps naturally moisturizing handmade soaps are made from scratch using only the finest natural organic plant oils, flowers, herbs, and clays picked fresh from a garden in Fallbrook, CA. They are scented with 100% pure essential oils and contain no artificial colors, fragrances, detergents or preservatives.

Each bar of soap has a rich, luxurious scent, and even picking up the various bars leaves purchasers with the distinct impression that a lot of time and dedication has been put into each variety displayed on the table. I purchased a sliver on my first trip to San Diego and still use it in my travel bag. You can choose from blends of olive, coconut, avocado and jojoba oils. Shea butter mixed with lavender, pink clay or mint are good options too. Also try the loofah bars which help exfoliate the skin.

www.LifeConnectionMagazine.com

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Chocolatl More Than Chocolate

by Jennifer Joe, MIH, CFSP

H

ere’s a sweet treat for our loyal readers – just in time for Valentine’s Day! Win a Superfood Raw Chocolate Gift Giveaway by visiting our website at www.lifeconnectionmagazine.com Awaken your spirit, revitalize your body, illuminate your soul, and regenerate the earth…that’s what Chocolatl’s Superfood Raw Cacao, Fair Trade treats and remedies can do for you and our global community.

Chocolatl was created by Deanna Moore’s passion for ecological sustainability and holistic health. Her vision was inspired by her international travels to fair trade cacao cooperatives, family farms and tropical permaculture sites where she observed and learned methods of growing, processing and preparing chocolate, from seed to mouth. Chocolatl’s remedies and famous raw Chocolate – Maca sauce, are handcrafted and made in small batches to ensure quality, locally here in Poway.

Raw Chocolate Benefits

Did you know that...? : • Raw cacao provides 5 times more antioxidants than dark chocolate.

• Cacao is the number 1 food source of magnesium. 80% of Americans are magnesium deficient. Magnesium is vital for a healthy heart, and it plays a key role in producing energy for the brain, which helps the mind work with clarity and focus.

• Raw cacao stimulates four neurotransmitters that elevate feelings of well-being: Serotonin, Endorphins, PEA which is released by the brain when we’re in love, and Anandamide – the “bliss chemical”.

• Research has shown that cacao contains more antioxidant flavonoids than blueberries, red wine, and green tea.

Chocolatl is more than chocolate and combines Raw Cacao with a variety of widely celebrated plant and herb medicines from around the world. The Raw Cacao, on top of being a powerful neurotransmitter (mood enhancer), acts as an efficient delivery system for the other powerful plant ingredients they’ve added to their varieties of products. You can enjoy unique combinations like: Immune Boost – goji berries and more, Revitalizing Mint – with blue green algae and more, and Brain Boost – with Cordyceps, a rare mushroom regarded for its ability to strengthen the lungs, heart, blood, and kidneys. Used for anti-aging, clarity, energy, and overall vitality.

The Southern California Spring Forest Qigong Community invites you to welcome

Qigong Master Chunyi Lin

Public Talk & Heart-Opening Meditation Thursday, February 19

“Born A Healer” Friday & Saturday, February 20 & 21

Level 1 — “Heal Yourself ” Monday, February 23

Level 2 — “Becoming a Healer” Tuesday & Wednesday, February 24 & 25

Encinitas, CA • February 19–25, 2015

A Healer in Every Family and A World Without Pain www.springforestqigong.com • 952-593-5555 10 | The Life Connection

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Flow Foods - FLOW is an acronym that stands for “Fair, Local.

Organic, Wild…for a peaceful, sacred, and sustainable culture”- and Deanna’s commitment to sustainability runs throughout Chocolatl’s entire production process: from being handmade and crafted in small batches locally here in Poway, to their packaging being 100% Biodegradable - made from sustainably USA grown cottonwood tree

cellulose and 100% post-consumer recycled card stock.

You can find Chocolatl at Jimbo’s, and the following Farmers’ Markets: Hillcrest, Leucadia, Poway, Encinitas, as well as ordering on-line at Flowfoodschocolatl.com. Chocolatl.com

Dark Chocolate Silk Pudding Let’s celebrate February with a rich and delicious, yet simple recipe that nourishes us from the inside out – with ingredients for our Mind, Body and Spirit.

So here’s to our highest self – enjoy! Jennifer Joe MIH, CFSP Chocolate: I’ve already mentioned a number of chocolate’s benefits in “Lovin' Our Locals: Chocolatl - More Than Chocolate”…antioxidants, flavonoids, magnesium, heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory, with benefits for the brain and cardiovascular system. Research has shown that eating foods rich in flavonoids has been able to lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, the risk of strokes, and cardiovascular disease. Red wine, tea, cocoa and chocolate contain significant amounts of flavonoids.

Blueberries: These superfoods powerhouses are filled with benefits – for your cardiovascular system, brain, eye health, cancer protection, as well as offering whole body antioxidant support whose phytonutrients function both as antioxidants and as anti-inflammatory compounds in the body. Additional studies suggest that these beautiful berries might turn out to be beneficial not only for improvement of memory, but for slowing down or postponing the beginnings of other cognitive problems that can be associated with aging. But it’s important to buy organically grown berries to maximize your antioxidant benefits, per a study comparing conventionally grown versus organic, as well as to help lessen toxic burden to the body from chemicals and pesticides.

Avocados: Eating foods rich in healthy fats will help to support the optimum functioning of your brain, allowing the continual flow of your neurotransmitters to move fluidly. They also boost the ability to keep you in a positive and good mood. Did you also know that avocados are considered heart-healthy, a monounsaturated fat, and are rich in folate, potassium, vitamin E, magnesium, lutein and glutathione?

They have also been shown to be a “nutrient booster,” allowing the body to significantly absorb more heart-healthy and cancer-fighting nutrients like alpha-carotene, beta-carotene and lycopene found in fruits and vegetables. (Ohio State Univ. study, AJCN 2004) Tea: Many studies have noted that tea helps bone health and may help prevent weight gain, dementia, inhibit vascular inflammation and certain cancers. The flavonol polyphenol and antioxidants in tea, especially epigallo-catechin-gallate (EGCG) in green tea, has been identified to inhibit tumors in several ways.

This recipe helps to satisfy cravings for a silky, rich dark chocolate (almost bittersweet) treat. It's dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and raw; if you choose to use raw cacao, etc.. The original version of this recipe I developed for Dr. Hyman’s program for The Blood Sugar Solution Cookbook. There are many variations and combinations possible, so please

consider this recipe as a beginning canvas for your culinary creativity; to adjust, add, change, in whatever way best serves your taste and desires.

Recipe for Dark Chocolate Silk Pudding

Ingredients: • 1 Avocado – a ripe Haas is preferable (large, enough to yield about 1 cup or more) • ½ cup Organic Blueberries (if frozen, defrost) • 2 heaping Tablespoons of Organic Raw Cacao Powder or Organic Cocoa Powder • 1-2 Tablespoons of sweetener of your choice: Raw Honey, Organic Coconut Palm Nectar • 1 Tablespoon & ½ Teaspoon of Organic Vanilla Extract • 2-4 tablespoons of Coconut Water (adjust quantity depending on the consistency desired - which varies depending on the size of your avocado, and how hefty your "heaping" of cacao powder is) Directions: 1. Place the organic blueberries, honey, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of the coconut water in a small blender cup, or a small mixing bowl with higher sides. Blend together until fully blended or pureed. A Cuisinart immersion blender’s 2 cup container works too.

2. Add 1 heaping tablespoon of the organic cocoa powder gradually until it is fully blended in to this mixture.

3. Cut the avocado in to pieces and mash to smooth consistency.

Add the last 1 heaping tablespoon of the organic cocoa powder, along with the mashed avocado, in to the other ingredients in the blender. Mix until well blended together, adding additional coconut water as needed to fully mix the dry cocoa powder in to make the desired consistency or thickness of a pudding.

4. After you have all the ingredients well blended together, it will look like pudding. Take a taste adjust the quantity of the honey (or sweetener of your choice.)

5. If not eating immediately, refrigerate in a covered container (glass), to let the flavors deepen.

6. Topping Options: Sprinkle with Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder, some dried Goji Berries, Raspberries, Nuts of your choice, Granola, Cinnamon, Coconut…or you’re favorite ingredient.

Serve chilled. Yield: 2- 3 servings, depending on the size of your avocado and appetite. www.LifeConnectionMagazine.com

D February 2015 | 11

\\\ Alternative Health \\\

Pain:

Symbols & Acceptance

by David Gersten

O

ver the last 40 years the field of psychoneuroimmunology has scientifically demonstrated how deeply connected mind and body are. All the components of the immune system, such as white blood cells and platelets, have receptor sites for the vast majority of neurotransmitters.

This fact led Dr. Candace Pert to conclude that, “The immune system is a floating nervous system.” Similarly, nerve cells (neurons) have receptor sites for immune system substances, such as interferon, interleukin, and growth factors.

In the last issue we elaborated on receptor sites, which cover every cell in our body. Our emotional state creates the environment in which receptor sites bind with neurotransmitters, hormones, and peptides (short chains of amino acids). These facts and others help explain how a mental technique like guided imagery can affect a wide number of physiological processes.

Many people have tried to improve their health through positive thinking and affirmations. Affirmations can play an important role in helping us to become happier, and to obtain a variety of things. However, large numbers of people have developed a deep sense of guilt for continuing to be sick in spite of diligent use of affirmations. Affirmations do not have the same power to affect physiology as does mental imagery, and perhaps the reason is that affirmations are words. Words do not access the mind-body connection. Images do have that power. Optimism, a positive way of being, which arises from a deep positive belief system, can affect physical health.

Imagery In Everyday Medical Practice

Therapeutic mental imagery doesn’t always need to be an eyes-closed experience. Clinicians can ask their patient to draw a picture of their pain. One man with chronic low back pain drew a picture of an angry dog chewing away at his low back and spinal cord. The simple act of converting the pain experience into a symbolic picture transformed the pain. The very act of drawing a picture of pain (or being 12 | The Life Connection

D February 2015

guided through an imagery experience) transforms the pain.

Symbolic imageries are both diagnostic and therapeutic. The picture or image provides diagnostic information and relief at the same time.

Without knowing it, doctors often convey negative messages to their patients. When examining a pain patient, doctors have been trained to ask questions like, “Does this hurt?” “What is your pain on a scale of 1 to 10?” These questions evoke negative images and expectations that more pain is on the way. Healing words from the doctor include, “Is this comfortable?” “Does this feel okay?” It is easy to realize that the phrase, “Is this comfortable?” is likely to generate positive imagery and hope.

Doctors need to learn the language of healing, a language in which every word can convey hope and healing. A single negative word can affect a person’s mood and pain adversely.

Our thoughts and words are associated with images, and our images affect our bodies.

Listening To Your Symptom

A symbol is an object or image that represents the depth, breath, and meaning of a thought, idea, emotion, cultural concept, or unconscious belief. Here is a good way to find the symbolism in your pain. The technique is not limited to pain.

Dr. Martin Rossman and Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen created a well-developed technique for identifying and working with symbols. The technique is called “Listening to your symptom.” What follows is my modification of the original technique:

“

Take deep breaths or meditate for a few minutes. Once you’re

relaxed, allow your unconscious mind to show you an image that represents the pain. Allow yourself to be surprised by the image.

It could be anything – animal, human, living, inanimate, natural or man-made."

Once the image, the symbol of pain has emerged, notice the details of how it looks. Notice how this image makes you feel, and then share those feelings with the image. Tell the image what you want from it. In the case of a symbol/image of pain, a person usually wants to say things like, ‘I hate you.

Get out of my life.’ Some people feel foolish talking to an image, but suspend judgment for now.

Ask the image a series of questions, and each time wait for he, she, or it to answer. ‘What do you want from me?’

“What do you need from me?’ ‘What do you have to teach me?’ ‘Are you protecting me from anything or anyone?’ Ask the image if it wants more of your attention.” This is almost always the case.

“Finally, negotiate with the image. You want it to vanish.

It wants more of your attention. Ask the image how often it wants to see you. Let’s say that it wants to see you every day, but you’re comfortable with once a week. If you’re okay with this idea, tell the image that you are willing to spend time with him, her, or it twice a week. If the image agrees, move to the next step.

In exchange for the time you decide to spend with the image its part of the bargain is to let up on the pain. You can spend any amount of time that works for the negotiation.

Checking in with the pain symbol for a few minutes each time is usually adequate.

If the image does not let up on the pain, you can choose to stop spending time with it. If you don’t spend the amount of time you agreed to, the image can increase the pain. Practice for a few weeks to see how the agreement is working out. If you need to, modify the agreement.”

I’ve been using this technique for 25 years and have found it to be very powerful. It not only can dramatically alleviate pain (or any other symptom), it positively transforms a person’s life.

Embracing Overwhelming Pain

Sometimes human suffering is so great that imagery techniques alone don’t work. The pain goes on and on even after utilizing simple imagery techniques, meditation, and listening to your symptom.

It is human nature to push away pain, but sometimes you need to fully embrace the pain. What follows is one of the most powerful tools of transformation. The technique “embracing pain” was inspired by the work of Stephen Levine (author of A Gradual Awakening and Who Dies).

“Begin by getting in touch with the variety of bodily sensations you have...the feeling of your body on the chair, couch, bed or floor...the feeling of your clothing on your skin...the temperature of the air...the rising and falling of your diaphragm. Notice areas of comfort and areas of discomfort.

Allow all these different sensations to arise and dissolve.

As you bring your awareness to these sensations, you will see that they change. Even pain sensations arise, change and dissolve when you bring your awareness to them.

Most of us have a way of tightening around pain. Imagine that there is a fist closed around the pain. Allow the fingers to open one at a time until the pain is resting in the palm of that hand...until you are really down to the original pain.

The body reacts to pain. Muscles cramp around it. But now allow yourself to feel the original pain, the one at the center before you tightened around it.

Allow those sensations to arise, change and dissolve.

Simply observe. Make no effort to make the pain go away. As the pain sensations arise and dissolve, notice the thoughts, feelings and images that pass through your consciousness. Observe them. Your awareness is simply penetrating and exploring the pain. Breathe in and out of the pain. After awhile the pain may seem to float or take on a new characteristic. Continue to observe the sensations.

Continue to open to the pain over and over again.

Pain has two qualities: 1) discomfort and 2) energy.

Observe these two. Allow the energy of the pain to move up into your head as if it is charging the batteries of your mind and spirit. Notice how you may want to utilize this energy.

Perhaps you can use it to sharpen your concentration or to take you into a deep meditation. Observe the discomfort and the energy as they disentangle from each other.”

The pain will almost always change. When one observes pain in this way, a barrage of feelings may begin to arise.

People may realize that when they have pain, they’re afraid it will never stop or that they will end up helpless invalids.

The results are powerful. Sometimes the pain seems to float out of a person’s body, or it gradually disperses. But the experience of embracing, and immersing oneself in the pain allows for transformation of the pain. This process involves a profound acceptance of things as they are in this moment.

We have a variety of strong pain medications, which are great for acute pain but cause problems when used long-term. For chronic pain learning to “listen to the pain” and then transforming it by “embracing it” can dramatically transform lives.

David Gersten, M.D. practices Nutritional Medicine and Integrative Psychiatry out of his Encinitas office and can be reached at 760-633-3063. www.drdavidgersten.com and www.imagerynet.com

www.LifeConnectionMagazine.com

D February 2015 | 13

\\\ Calendar of Events \\\

February 2015

3 Tuesday - Full Moon 5 Thursday

REFLEXOLOGY - 4 THURSDAY NIGHTS AT NHI Open to everyone - Required for both Spa, Massage Therpaist Certificate Programs. 4 Thursday nights.

Learn, experience traditional zone therapy, modern hand & foot reflexology, other release points, differnt style, includes ear massage. Give and recieve treatments. Steve Schecter, NP, HHP, NHI Director. Natural Healing Institute, 760-943-8485

14 Sat - Valentine's Day

will laugh. You will be inspired. Your heart will open.

Tickets are $20 if paid by January 25 and $30 at the door or after Jan. 25. Go to www.gracespiritualcenter. com/tickets or call 858-999-2412 after 7pm.

SOUND MEDICINE ULTRA SONIC ATTUNEMENT Come alive renewed, refreshed, and revitalized with the powerful benefits of relaxing music. Soak in the singing bowls, flutes, chimes, and didjeridoos for a vibrational massage. Bonus Helaing Touch with Reiki.

February 15th at 7:30pm at Bikram Yoga 701 Seagaze Oceanside, CA 92054 (Limited to 20 people. $20 in advance) Bring your mat, small pillow, blanket and water.

LOVE & HEALING CONCERT In celebration of Valentine’s Day Grace Spiritual Center presents a special Love & Healing Concert featuring Karen Drucker at the Encinitas Community Center Banquet Hall at 3pm on Sunday Feb. 15. You

20 Friday BORN A HEALER- We all have the ability to heal ourselves and to help others heal. You will learn how to unify your mind, body, heart and connect with the most powerful healing energy in the Universe. February 20th from 9:00am-5:00pm. Seaside Center for Spiritual Living 1613 Lake Drive Encinitas, CA 92014

21 Saturday

Rev. Dr. Kathy Hearn

FEB 22 10:00 AM

“Deepening Our Faith”

THE HIGHER VISION CHOIR

Peter Mayer

SONGS OF THE HUMAN JOURNEY FEB 28 7:00 PM

$15 Advance / $20 at door

6154 Mission Gorge Rd.

www.visioncsl.com

14 | The Life Connection

CERTIFIED NURTRITIONALIST CONSULTANT (CNC) Individual classes. Special Discounts. Most comprehensive training from nationally honored Nutritionists. Revised! Innovative! 7:00 pm. Natural Healing Institute, 760-943-8485.

Wednesdays CERTIFIED CLINICAL MASTER HERBALIST (CCMH)™ Individual classes. Special Discounts.

Most comprehensive training from nationally honored Master Herbalists. Revised! Innovative! 7:00 pm.

Natural Healing Institute, 760-943-8485.

16 Mon - President's Day 18 Wednesday - New Moon Saturdays CANYON TOUR FROM VEGAS STRIP 19 Thurs - Chinese New Year HAUNTED BusMeHaunted.com, 702/403-4881

PUBLIC TALK & HEART OPENING MEDITATION Please join us for an evening as we open our hearts and welcome an infinite source of love into our lives.

Experience the unconditional love that Gandhi called “the most powerful force the world possesses”. February 19th from 7;00-9:00pm. Seaside Center for Spiritual Living 1613 Lake Drive Encinitas, CA 92014

15 Sunday

Tuesdays

BORN A HEALER - PART TWO We all have the ability to heal ourselves and to help others heal. You will learn how to unify your mind, body, heart and connect with the most powerful healing energy in the Universe. February 21st from 9:00am-5:00pm.

Seaside Center for Spiritual Living 1613 Lake Drive Encinitas, CA 92014

23-25 Mon-Wed LEVEL 1&2 HEALING YOURSELF - BECOMING A Healer--You can increase self-awareness, build internal energy and develop a healthy mind, body and spirit. The simple, gentle, energy movement helps you relieve and help heal physical pain, stress, depression and so much more. In Level Two, Master Lin will teach you the step-by-step healing process.

You will learn how to increase and protect your own internal energy. You will know how to scan the body to find blockages and clear them for others. From 9:00am-5:00pm. Seaside Center for Spiritual Living 1613 Lake Drive Encinitas, CA 92014

February Weekly

Mondays

CERTIFIED CLINICAL AROMATHERAPY (CA) program. Individual classes. Learn self-help, professional practice. World renowned Aromatherapy instructor. NHI had the 1st State Certified Aromatherapy program in U.S. Natural Healing Institute, 760-943-8485.

D February 2015

March

4 Wednesday - 8 Sunday PERMACULTURE VOICES 2015 PV2’s immersive environment blends the practical techniques and tactics found in worshops with the entrepreneurial spirit and opportunity of a business conference. They programming tracks and workshops highlight innovators. Held at Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina. For more information visit www.permaculturevoice.com

ALL FAITH CENTER All Faiths Are Welcome

Romantic Commitment & Vow Renewal Walking the Labyrinth Valentine’s Day Saturday, February 14, 2015 Sunset Service 5:33pm Arrive at 4:30pm for pictures Join couples from all faiths and all ages as you renew your vows to each other, at the magical time of sunset, with Love, Trust & Joy. Full Group Ceremony Voice Personal Vows Commitment Renewal Certificate Group & Couple Photographs Glass of Wine or Sparkling Cider Red Velvet Valentine Cake Dark Chocolate Hearts & more.

COST -$35 per couple Reservation cut-off February 10th Call to Reserve your Space

858-487-8885

17762 St. Andrews Dr. Poway

6 Friday - 8 Sunday Julie Moret with Awakening Into The Sun Come join an amazing event with Julie Moret, Mchael Bernard Beckwith, Temple Hayes, Rickie BB, and T.J. Vanderpool with a book signing and exclusive VIP party. The weekend will be filled with enlightenment and wonderful music. South Straub Park, St. Petersburg, FL. Visit www.awakeningintothesun.org

23 Monday

\\\ Classified Ads \\\ Business Opportunity

VG7 100% NATURAL NUTRITION A healthy opportunity. www.VgWellness.com/my/ HealthPlan

Healing HOLISTIC HARMONIES: REIKI Facilitates a powerful yet gentle release of negative energy, opening pathways to optimal health and personal success. 760-575-4451. holisticharmoniesca.com

Home Design

Michael Cotton with Higher Brain Living MIND-BLOWING DEMO: HIGHER BRAIN LIVING® Higher Brain Living® creates an energy surge to the Higher Brain, opening a gateway to expansive higher living like no other! Learn to activate this by attending a live, mind-blowing demonstration, Hilton – San Diego, Del Mar, CA, Monday March 23, 6:30-8:30pm (FREE—if pre-registered, $97 at door) Go to http:// higherbrainlivingevents.com/san-diego/

How to Submit Classified & Calendar Ads & Listings LISTINGS—$1.00 per word (includes first line in bold) $10 minimum per ad. Count phone numbers as 1 word. Count Websites & email addresses as 3 words.

Make sure to specify the category or date.

Don’t count the date or category in the total words unless they are repeated in the ad.

LISTINGS IN BOLD cost an additional 20%

Pay for 2 months in advance and receive a third month FREE (on listings above only—not on ads that have photos or logos).

LISTINGS with PHOTO or LOGO cost $25 plus $1.00 per word for each month run.

PAYMENT — email the ad and call with debit or credit card info, or snail mail both the ad & check to us at the PO Box below.

Please submit ads before the 15th of the month preceding publication. Late ads may be accepted if there is room, but there is a late fee of $10. Sorry, but no ads dictated over the phone. We need something in writing. Thank you.

Email us at: LifeConnection@cox.net or mail us at: TLC C/C, POB 789, Vista CA 92085

Hawes Home Design Services Free Consultation. Home design and drafting services. Remodels, additions and landscapes. Kitchens and bathrooms. 3D renderings and consulting. Call 760-940-8910 for a free consultation.

Home Repair OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Does your home need Cabinetry, Carpentry, Electrical Work, Plumbing, Tiling and/or Painting? Quality workmanship now available in North County and general San Diego area. Call Handyman Hugh Clark at 619415-5390 or 760-509-4580.

Mattresses

SLEEPORGANIC.NET MATTRESSES Carlsbad Showroom. Organic all natural mattresses and bedding for babies kids and adults 760-720-9111 mark@sleeporganic.net

Personal Growth ARELATIONSHIPGURU.COM Sliding Scale.

Healing From The Heart with Linda Wolf 20+ years of experience helping you heal emotional wounds and physical ailments, find/live your life purpose, awaken spiritually, connect with angels/spirit guides. 'with table tipping, I help you pinpoint issues, make crucial decisions, bring through energie/

information from archangels/guides. Special Prices: www.healing-from-the-heart.com or (760) 613-3854

Solar

SOLAR IS FINALLY AFFORDABLE! Pay no upfront costs. No money down. No investment required. Pay less than you are paying for your electric bill each month and payments never go up like your electric bill tends to. BBB Accredited Business.

To qualify for the solar lease you must have: $150 or higher electric bill (the higher the bill, the greater the savings), 700+ credit score, and south facing areas of property with clear sun exposure. Planning on selling your home in a few years? No problem, the solar transfers to the new owner and has been shown to increase your property value significantly when selling your home. To schedule an appointment for a feasibility evaluation, call 760-945-4943. Must be in San Diego County.

Wanted

ROOM TO RENT I am seeking accommodation, ideally one or two rooms on the first floor of a home. Being an “International Healer” whose name is Edward Waite. Can be contacted at 508-529-6177. Thank you.

INTERESTED INDIVIDUALS We are looking for individuals interested in participating in the creation of life sharing home situations with opportunities for creative art work, gardening, home business in San Diego North County coastal area. For information call 858-481-3998.

Web Design

IS YOUR WEBSITE OUT OF DATE? The web is evolving. Your website should evolve along with it. Affordably. Learn more and visit our portfolio at http://bentonwebs.com Call Todd at 760-731-4855 or email todd@bentonwebs.com for a free assessment and consultation.

WEB DESIGNER LET YOU DOWN? If your web designer has let you down, We can help!

We have had many clients come to us that need a site completed after another designer let their project fall by the wayside. We specialize in getting the work done professionally and your site up and running quickly.

We work hard to keep you informed and involved in the process of site development. Ongoing, affordable maintenance and updates are built into our site agreements. We offer Facebook and Twitter integration, shopping carts and standard sites. Looking to get into business online? Allow us to assist you. Call 760-945-4943 and see our portfolio at ravenknight. com/raven-knight-overview/web-design-and-marketing-portfolio Some newer sites not included in the portfolio are mossgrills.com, isisadornments.com and aaahomedesign.com

Our rates have changed and we have a new Media Kit. If you would like a copy, call the TLC office (760) 631-1177 or email lifeconnection@cox.net www.LifeConnectionMagazine.com

D February 2015 | 15

Higher Brain Living An Interview with Michael Cotton

By Amelia Leigh and Steve Hays

“ —that aha

I know now that moment

experience shifted the energy into the higher structures of the brain. The prefrontal cortex was activated.

I shifted out of the lower brain and into the higher brain."

Dr. Michael Cotton, is a leading Evolutionary Theorist and the Founder of Higher Brain Living® (HBL). He has a Doctoral degree in Chiropractic, and has facilitated more than 75,000 healing or personal growth sessions. He created and developed the Higher Brain Living® system for personal and cultural transformation.

With HBL you can, he says, "Take your life and install a new operating system. Get into that empowered state, create clarity, and then take an inventory of these areas of your life." From there we can create a strategy for change that allows our authentic self to emerge.

16 | The Life Connection

D February 2015

His unique HBL technique helps shift a surge of energy into the prefrontal cortex, awakening human potential, helping to create lasting joy, purpose and potential. Dr. Cotton has operated six Awaken Higher Brain Living™ centers and over 30 more centers are slated to be opened by new HBL facilitators this year.

Dr. Cotton will be hosting an event March 23 in San Diego from 7-9pm at www.higherbrainlivingevents.com/ san-diego. The event is free if you RSVP online in advance, or $97 at the door.

How did you become interested in this field and develop Higher Brain Living?

I tried college and dropped out after the first semester with a .59 GPA. I did not think much of it, so I got a job.

During work one day, I had a huge transformation. It just hit me out of nowhere. It was a spontaneous awakening. I left work and tried to figure out what had just happened. Then, I began researching the answers. I knew I had to go back to school and learn more.

I was taking 32 credits a year and acing all of my classes.

I went through the doctoral program at an accelerated rate.

That was not my prior academic history. I had profoundly changed. Now there were stepping-stones and tools guiding me. I began to put it all together. This sent me on a path of knowing that my life’s work was to build the human potential movement. I started experimenting with ancient techniques and old world teachings.

I then realized the missing piece for the whole field of soul development, personal transformation and human potential was in the ability to change the brain physiology. I looked at different meditation practices and wanted to see what would create a profound change in the physical brain—something to help create sustainable life changes. I broke down the brain physiology to see what was going on within a species developmentally.

What do you think created the power surge that you experienced in the factory?

It was a spontaneous awakening that sparked a passion to search for a deeper meaning to life. An epiphany came and I felt a jolt of energy: all of a sudden things were more clear. I then became more confident. It was like I was viewing myself from 50,000 feet. I was able to see the whole trajectory and had not before. I was “in it” instead of just seeing it. This all helped to create my intuitive guidance into this field. Higher Brain Living will help you make decisions based on your intuition.

Describe the process you found to be most effective at creating a transformative experience?

After researching this field and exploring the different modalities, I think this is the missing link to create a change in the brain. We are able to crack the code from ancient wisdom, and tap into energy that has been around for centuries. I have developed a specific protocol, a 22-step system that uses subtle touch. The series is comprised of 45-minute sessions. After the first treatment, people will notice a significant difference. There is a sense of purpose, passion, joy and motivation.

“

We are able to crack the code from ancient wisdom, and tap into energy that has been around for centuries."

We cue pathways with a gentle touch. The key is in the sequencing. It triggers a specific energy that creates a piezoelectric effect. The energy is then transferred up from your into the pre-frontal cortex in brain. Inside your brain are microtubules that once ignited will swell. This releases energy and your body starts breathing through a salutogenic breath—the whole body starts to breathe. You are not taught a new way to breathe. It just flows from the inside out. Your being is being breathed.

What makes this technique different than other forms of energy healing such as Reiki, Acupuncture or EFT? There are different models that say the same thing.

Traditional Chinese Medicine with acupuncture meridians, reiki, qi gong, and tai chi all tap into energy. The answer is that we are all looking at the same thing. We can take a western science perspective and it will show that the brain is full of microtubules. Making them piezoelectric means it has an electric charge. The microtubules are stretched in a way that creates an electric charge. I tapped into the code that creates an effect that nudges the prefrontal cortex. It changes what has been keeping us in the lower brain.

How does the brain change into a higher state?

By moving energy from lower brain dominance to the higher part of the brain, known as the pre-frontal cortex. www.LifeConnectionMagazine.com

D February 2015 | 17

"Angel Lobes, (or as I have heard it, the God parts of the brain) are activated when we have peaks or elevated states of consciousness. The potential is in there, it just needs the energy flow to light up." — Michael Cotton

This controls our higher reasoning abilities and enables us to unlock our potential to find meaning in our lives.

We at HBL are helping to make a change by being able to actualize the untapped energy from the primitive lower brain to the higher part of the brain. The primordial brain was so dominant it was actually hijacking our higher advanced brain’s functioning.

Do you call this the subconscious?

No. I am talking more about the brain structure rather than visions or meditations. My study was to gain an understanding of anatomy. It's consciousness versus the physical brain, and consciousness does not have to be tied to the lower part of the brain. Thinking, reacting, protecting, stress-inducing physiology was the dominant way we respond to our environment for thousands of years. Humankind processes the world from a fight or flight perspective.

The challenge is not just changing your thoughts, law of attraction techniques or meditation. I support all of them.

But the truth is, the brain has to change in a way that it can receive all of these techniques and resonate on a higher level.

What prompted the “aha moment"?

That is the exact question that has led me to where I am now. I know now that moment—that aha experience—shifted the energy into the higher structures of the brain. The prefrontal cortex was activated. I shifted out of the lower brain and into the higher brain. I started looking at history, all the ancient healing systems, old world practices, and they all involved the enlightened state. Very few people were achieving these profound breakthroughs and ideas. Being able to create a new life and then sustain that new life was not happening very often. So, the old techniques do not contain the ability to the change what will happen. We already know that people have advanced states of consciousness, Samadhi or other enlightenment states, of pureness and sense of meaning. We now know that once the pre-frontal cortex has been activated, we function at a higher level.

What is great about Higher Brain Living is we can go straight to creating a change in the higher brain anatomy.

This activates the transformation of the brain's morphic field.

Change the brain state, and our perspective and ability to look at the world differently changes.

—continued on page 24

18 | The Life Connection

D February 2015

By Amelia Leigh

\\\ Reviews : Music & Books \\\ perpetuate negative patterns.

They do this as a community service, charging no fee for their work of love, but welcoming donations. "We first started offering the Chakra Sound Meditation to the public as a community service about five or six years ago in our town, and it has been very well received by many, many people," said Sylvia.

INNER WORLD JOURNEY Chakra Sound Meditation Singing Bowls, Gongs, Bells, Dulcimer, Flutes, Didjeridoos & Voice I had the pleasure of attending their live concert event that takes place every Saturday (at Bikram Yoga Studio in Oceanside).

It was an incredible sound immersive experience that I wanted to be able to practice after they leave for an annual mission trip to Vietnam in February. Upon returning in April, they will continue the fundraising efforts for underprivileged children around the world.

This CD provides a direct experience of personal healing from chronic stress. It is widely known that the body heals itself most effectively in a state of deep relaxation. One of the simplest and most effective tools to induce the "Relaxation Response" is the use of sound & music. The deep relaxation takes you to the alpha brain wave state, where you access the extraordinary powers of your own intuition, creativity, health and abundance.

Sound acts as a natural tranquilizer to remove stress, fatigue, anxiety and depression without the negative effects of medication. It will help awaken your creativity, promote deep relaxation, calm your over-thinking mind, reduce pain, stress and anxiety, improve memory and learning, increases strength and energy, lifts weight of sorrow and grief, and removes blocks that

Inner Reflections "Engagement Calendar 2015 Self-Realization Fellowship

The DNA Field and the Law of Resonance - Creating Reality Through Conscious Thought

by Pierre Franckh Thoughts, emotions, and beliefs create a field of resonance around us. Through the power of our positive thoughts, we can affect our own vibrational energy, such as changing our DNA. We can impact our immune system, for example, and strengthen it through our thoughts. Additionally, we can use affirmations to create our future.

Through the power of visualization, we can heal ourselves. This book gives a great explanation of how our energy field impacts our environment and the individuals around us. Franckh gives numerous examples and exercises on how to remove toxic influences that can create conflict.

The Law of Attraction is described in depth and shows the reader how to manifest health, wealth and happiness. There also lies the potential to unlock our DNA and reach our full potential. Turn off old, negative belief patterns on our life and generate new, positive resonance fields. Everything that we wish for, all goals that we want to achieve, already exist within us. We can therefore step into resonance with our desired goals.

“The entire physical creation, so aweinspiring to human mentality...provides only tantalizing hints to the underlying wonders of being.”

— Paramahansa Yogananda Inner Reflections has gained a reputation as one of the most stunning and beautiful Inspirational Engagement Calendars available. Inspiring quotations from Paramahansa Yogananda are magically blended with fifty-three images from the world's top nature photographers. Whether spread over the vast heavens or hidden in the exquisite delicacy of a tiny flower, nature’s beauty is always beckoning, inviting us to look behind the outward form and sense the presence of God within.

With annual print runs of over 50,000, Inner Reflections continues year after year to be a best-selling engagement calendar. This exquisite calendar is as fulfilling to produce as it is to sell...each year we review over 20,000 of the world's finest images, rejecting all but 53! It's no wonder that since 1990, Inner Reflections has won more gold medals in national and international calendar competitions than any other calendar.

The thoughts and images in these pages will bring you inspiration and encouragement in the days and weeks of the year.

Moon phases, as well as national and international holidays included. Week at a glance format, 128 pages, 53 color photos, 7" x 9".

www.LifeConnectionMagazine.com

D February 2015 | 19

Ancient India's 5 Words for Love

and Why Knowing Them Can Heighten Your Happiness For the sages of ancient India, sex and romance were just the first few steps in a more expansive process of learning to love.

H

induism has a beautiful myth about the origins of love. In the beginning, there was a superbeing called Purusha. This being was without desire, craving, fear, or indeed the impulse to do anything at all—since the universe was already perfect and complete.

As humans, we too are seeking unity, and love is the word we use for that search.

Then the creator Brahma took out his divine sword and split Purusha in two. Sky became separate from earth, darkness from light, life from death, male from female. Each of these set off passionately to reunite with its severed half.

As humans, we too are seeking unity, and love is the word we use for that search.

These days we tend to focus on the romantic and sexual elements of the process. The signs of this are everywhere: Millions of people use online dating sites each month in search of romantic partners. Advertisers exploit our love affair with love to sell everything from aftershave lotion to sports cars. And Hollywood jerks our heart strings with blockbuster romantic adventures.

A visitor from another planet might think that we earthlings— and Americans in particular—were obsessed with chasing love.

If you asked the sages of ancient India, however, they’d probably say that love is not what we’re actually chasing. Instead, we pursue the intense but fleeting emotional high of “falling in love,” which generally doesn’t last very long.

So how do we keep the life-giving flame of love alive? The ancient thinkers of India, who devoted a great deal of attention to this problem, recognized and honored the power of sex and romance to jump-start our flagging emotions. But the important question for them was, where do we go from there? How do we harness the intoxicating power of falling in love to create a happiness that endures even after the initial flame dies away?

These philosophers began pondering this topic during Vedic times in the centuries before Christ and further developed their ideas during the great revival of bhakti yoga, or the path of divine love, in the 15th century and beyond.

They taught that love consists of a series of stages through which an individual can climb. The lower stages on love’s journey aren’t necessarily supposed to go away as one gets more enlightened—however, remaining stuck at the lowest rung can cause a lot of frustration and sadness.

The important thing is that we keep climbing love’s ladder.

20 | The Life Connection

D February 2015

Abhinay Omkar, Flickr CC

by Richard Schiffman

As the 19th century Hindu apostle to America, Swami Vivekananda, put it, “If one would expand, he must love, and when he ceases to love he dies.”

Here’s a look at the five stages of love as the Hindus see them:

1. “Kama,” or sensory craving

At first, the desire to merge gets expressed through physical attraction, or kama. Technically speaking, kama means “craving for sense objects,” but it is usually translated as sexual desire.

In ancient India, sex was not associated with shame—as it is in many interpretations of the Judeo-Christian myth of the “fall of man”—but a joyous aspect of human existence and a topic worthy of serious investigation. The Kama Sutra, which was written around the time of Christ, is not merely a catalogue of kinky sexual positions and erotic techniques. The majority of the text is a philosophy of love dealing with questions such as what sparks desire, what maintains it, and how it can be wisely cultivated.

But while the sages honor kama as a legitimate goal of life, they insist that we’ll never achieve wholeness through the act of sex alone.

2. “Shringara,” or rapturous intimacy

Sex without true intimacy and sharing can leave us feeling empty. That is why the philosophers of India focused on the emotional content of the experience, and they developed an especially rich vocabulary to express the myriad moods and emotions associated with it.

Out of this bubbling stew of feelings is born shringara, or romance. Lovers stir the pot of their erotic attraction by seeing

one another as embodiments of all their cravings. And they spice it up by sharing secrets, making up affectionate names for one another, playing games, and giving inventive gifts. This imaginative play of love is symbolized by the relationship of the divine couple, Radha and Krishna, whose romantic adventures are celebrated in Indian dance, music, theater, and poetry.

Yet the ancients were realistic about what a mixed bag romance is. They did not imagine that finding our “soul mate” would solve our problems, relieve our sense of unworthiness and self-doubt, or satisfy all of our emotional needs.

Nevertheless, Indian philosophy teaches that romantic love, enjoyed in moderation, provides a foretaste of something even greater.

Illustration from the Gita Govinda by Jayadeva, entitled "Foreplay of Krishna and Radha".

Photo courtesy of Jean-Pierre Dalbéra / Flickr.

3. “Maitri,” or generous compassion

To the millions of OK Cupid subscribers, India’s philosophers of love would probably say, “Stop waiting for love—it is within your power right now to make it happen!”

The way one does that, they would say, is by giving out love in little ways whenever you can. That could mean a smile at the checkout counter, a gift of food to the hungry, a soulful hug.…

“The simplest acts of kindness,” said Mahatma Gandhi, “are by far more powerful then a thousand heads bowing in prayer.”

“The river that flows in you,” says the Indian mystical poet Kabir, “also flows in me.”

Compassion resembles the uncomplicated love that we naturally feel toward children and pets. It is also associated

with “matru-prema,” the Sanskrit term for motherly love, which is said to be love’s most giving and least selfish form. Maitri is like a mother’s tender love but expressed toward all living beings not just for one’s own biological child.

Compassion for strangers, however, does not always come naturally. So in Hindu and Buddhist practice, there are lovingkindness meditations in which practitioners develop the ability to wish others well. The idea is that compassion is like a muscle that can become stronger if we use it regularly.

4. “Bhakti,” or impersonal devotion

While compassion is a wonderful quality, it is not quite the —continued on page 27

\\\ Transformational Talk \\\ Transformational Talk

Are You Afraid of Love?

Are You Afraid of Idleness?

PENELOPEYYOUNG BYBY PENELOPE OUNG ANDRADE, ANDRADELCSW , LCSW

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re you of love? idleness?

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Unfortunately thetonotion the devil lurksWhile in idleness feel calm your tofeet/ hands).

Move awareness healthy to shield yourself from emotional harm, shutting your before opening your heart fully.

Researchers recently has a big grip on our culture and psyche. Even the word idle back and forth between agitated and calmidentisensations for heartsend completely brings itsyour own industrialized-work-ethic misery. The challenge is how 36 questions you can ask withspreads a partnerjust to by bringmay shivers down spine.fiedthree minutes.

Watch as and the answer calmness to defend your self while staying open for love. give love a chance to flourish.

The problem is the kind of rest your nervous system needs ing attention to your body. If you still can’t settle down, seek the tip.

See if you’reisready to balance thethat security when love comes, once areallergies, secure in your andHere’s creative mind requires exactly the kind lollygag- Finally, professional evaluation foryou food overown medication, of protection with the risk of opening. If yes, check inside to worth, you can experience the myriad gifts that love brings: ging and wool gathering offer. Down time means spacious or other physical/emotional issues. see just how scared you are. If your heart is numb and heavily a softened heart, the joy of companionship, the ecstasy of time at home, in the tub, in nature, listening to music, reading Remember, making time for idleness increases not only barricaded, it’s a sign you have unresolved trauma that needs shared union, and an appreciation for all of life’s beauty. novels—even museum/gallery crawls or meditation will do – your joie de vivre, but paradoxically also increases produchealing. If necessary, get professional help. You need to feel as long as they’re aimless.

(No screens!) tivity.

Don’t Andrade just do something, sit there! © Penelope Young LCSW, EmotionalMedicineRx.com, you are safe and strong enough inside before you can feel @EmotionalRx, 858-481-5752 Here’s again. the tip: If you already know that you need morepenelopeyandrade@gmail.com, vulnerable Penelope Young AndradeTwitter LCSW, 858-481-5752, EmotionalMedicine time for just ‘being’, see if you’re ready to make some chang- Rx.com, penelopeyandrade@gmail.com, Twitter @EmotionalRx es. If yes, start with just 5 minutes. Make a cup of herbal tea.

www.LifeConnectionMagazine.com

from the publisher

from page 4

D February 2015 | 21

Their passion to contribute and support whatever it is, and

\\\ EarthTalk® from E - The Environmental Magazine \\\

Dear EarthTalk: I recently heard that Sweden is the greenest country in the world. Is this true and, if so, by what standards? And where does the U.S. rank?

—Raul Swain, New York, NY It’s true that Sweden came out on top in the recently released ranking of 60 countries according to sustainability by consulting firm Dual Citizen Inc. in its fourth annual Global Green Economy Index (GGEI). Norway, Costa Rica, Germany and Denmark rounded out the top five. The rankings take into account a wide range of economic indicators and datasets regarding leadership on climate change, encouragement of efficiency sectors, market facilitation and investing in green technology and sustainability, and management of ecosystems and natural capital.

Sweden’s first place finish reflects the Swedes’ ongoing commitment to climate change mitigation and sustainability policies and practices. The country is a leader in organic agriculture and renewable energy as well as per capita investment in green technology and sustainability research.

Upwards of 75 percent of Swedes recycle their waste, while only four percent of the country’s garbage goes to landfills.

In fact, Sweden imports garbage from other nations to burn as a renewable source of energy.

On the climate front, Sweden was one of the first countries in the world—going back to 1991—to put in place a heavy tax on fossil fuels to encourage the development of greener sources of energy. Indeed, the high price of gas there has notably boosted sales and consumption of homegrown, renewable ethanol. Just a few decades ago Sweden derived 75 percent of its energy from fossil fuels, but is on track to shrink that to 18 percent by 2020, with many Swedes clamoring for the country to abandon fossil fuels entirely at that point. As if that wasn’t enough, Sweden recently announced that it would pay a whopping $500 million over the next four years into the United Nations’ Green Climate Fund, a pool of money sourced from richer countries to help poorer ones transition to a future less dependent on polluting fossil fuels.

The United States didn’t fare so well in the GGEI, ranking just 28th overall, just behind Rwanda and slightly ahead of Canada. Despite leadership in green technology and environmental awareness, Americans’ disproportionately large carbon footprint and resistance to a national policy on climate change mitigation are hurdles to the U.S. achieving a better ranking.

The GGEI isn’t the only sustainability ranking of countries. The Yale Center for Environmental Law & Policy and Columbia University’s Center for International Earth Science 22 | The Life Connection

D February 2015

On the climate front, Sweden was one of the first countries in the world—going back to 1991—to put in place a heavy tax on fossil fuels to encourage the development of greener sources of energy.

Information Network recently released their 2014 Environmental Performance Index (EPI), a similar but more expansive ranking of 178 nations on environmental health and ecosystem vitality. Switzerland topped that list, followed by Luxembourg, Australia, Singapore and the Czech Republic.

Sweden ranked 9th and the U.S. 33rd.

The fact that global rankings like the GGEI and EPI exist shows without a doubt that sustainability concerns are a global phenomenon, and that people from Iceland to Australia (two highly ranked countries) realize the importance of taking care of Mother Earth. Despite issuing different rankings, both indices had a lot in common, with five countries (Norway, Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Spain) making the top 10 list of each. Another common conclusion was that the U.S. has much to do if it hopes to be taken seriously among world leaders committed to protecting the planet and our common future.

CONTACTS: GGEI 2014, dualcitizeninc.com/GGEIReport2014.pdf; EPI, epi.yale.edu.

EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is a registered trademark of E - The Environmental Magazine (www.emagazine.com). Send questions to: earthtalk@emagazine.com.

San Diego Farmer's Markets Downtown / Gaslamp Area

Dockside Fish Market, Saturday: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Fish Harbor Pier (near Tuna Harbor, between USS midway & Seaport Village) Open-Air fish market featuring pop-up canopies, tables & lots of Fresh local catches for sale, San Diego, CA 92101 Gaslamp Quarter, Farmers Market and Asian Bazaar, Sunday: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 400 block of Third Ave. between Island Ave and J Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Little Italy Mercato, Saturday: 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM, Cedar St (between Kettner & State Streets) , San Diego, CA 92101 Point Loma Certified Farmers Market Sunday: 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM, 2900 block of Cannon St., between Rosecrans & Shafter San Diego, CA 92106

Hillcrest / Uptown

Hillcrest Farmers Market, Sunday: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, 3960 Normal Street at Lincoln (Adjacent to the DMV), San Diego, CA 92103 North Park Farmers Market, Thursday: 3:00 to 7:00 pm. Herman Street between University and North Park Way , San Diego, CA 92104

La Jolla

La Jolla Open Aire Market, Sunday: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 1111 Marine St, (SW Corner of La Jolla Elementary School)Girard and Genter, La Jolla, CA 92037 UTC Certified Farmers Market, Thursday: 4:00 to 7:00 PM, Westfield UTC Mall, 3950 Berino (at Doyle Elementary), San Diego, CA 92122

East County

Alpine Certified Famers Market, Tuesday: 3:00 to 7:00 PM, 1929 Arnold Way (Arnold & Tavern), Alpine, CA 92004 Rancho San Diego Farmers Market, Saturday: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Cuyamaca College Lot 4, Fury Lane and Rancho San Diego Parkway, El Cajon, CA 92019 Santee Farmers Market, Wednesday: 3:00 to 6:00 PM, 9608 Carlton Hills Blvd. (corner of Mast & Carlton Hills Blvd), Santee, CA 92071

North County Coastal

Carlsbad State Street Farmers' Market, Wednesday: 3:00 to 7:00 PM, State Street between Carlsbad Village Drive and Grand Avenue, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Del Mar Farmers Market, Saturday: 1:00 to 4:00 PM, 1050 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 Encinitas Station Certified Farmers Market, Wednesday: 4:00 to 7:00 PM, Corner of Vulcan and E Street in the parking lot of the Pacific Station Amtrak Station, 620 Vulcan, Encinitas, CA 92024 Leucadia Farmers Market, Sunday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Paul Ecke Elementary 185 Union Street (at Vulcan), Encinitas, CA 92024 Oceanside Sunset Market, Thursday: 5:00 to 9:00 PM, Tremont and Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA 92054

North County Inland

Poway Farmers Market and Faire, Saturday: 8:00 to 11:30 AM, 14134 Midland Road at Temple Street, Poway, CA 92074 San Marcos - Restaurant Row, Thursday: 3:00 to 7:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, 1020 W. San Marcos Blvd. , San Marcos, CA 92078 Vista Farmers Market, Saturday: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM, County Courthouse, 325 South Melrose Drive, Vista, CA 92081

www.LifeConnectionMagazine.com

D February 2015 | 23

Michael Cotton from page 18

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How do you distinguish between neurofeedback and energy activation?

Similar to peak performance training?

Exactly. This shift from lower-brain dominance to higher brain energy loosens the grip that the survival brain has on us—the destructive patterns that keep us mired in our stress-driven lives—and shifts the operational mode to the higher brain. But more than simply a physiological change, HBL clients receive the methodology and insight to create a lifelong map toward vertical personal growth.

Our brain, the hard drive, is being upgraded. Take your life and install a new operating system. Get into that empowered state, create clarity, and then take an inventory of these areas of your life. Create a strategy to use that higher brain to make a change in all of these areas. When that happens, your authentic self starts to emerge and you can live from that place.

Have you done research on EEG baseline and then tested

the after-affects?

Yes, there has been some. Several different people have done studies on higher brain living recipients and followed their progress.

You wouldn’t believe the change.

There are correlates at early stages of the EEG signatures that we can associate with the higher brain changes. Research has linked brain-imaging findings to higher states of consciousness. A master's degree level thesis in the social work department at University of Iowa has been underway for several months now to quantify how HBL influences health, wellness and the changes in mental/emotional states of being.

What exactly is changing?

There is a constant battle going on between our dominant lower brain (whose job is to keep us from being eaten by a tiger) and our dormant, higher advanced part of the brain.

The tri-brain model shows that our brains have evolved over time. We have grown from the archaic Mammalian brain, which is surrounded by the cortex. Angel Lobes, (or as I have heard it, the God parts of the brain) are activated when we have peaks or elevated states of consciousness. The potential is in there, it just needs the energy flow to light up. That high level of alpha waves coming into the pre-frontal cortex gives you feelings of empowerment, peace, serenity and ease. We also see an overlay of very fast

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I am not really clear. I don’t find any problem saying that the pre-frontal cortex can correlate with the chakra area. We create shifts into the higher brain by applying a gentle touch to a series of precise areas. Through a certain protocol, a specific energy is created that ignites the brain and elicits a change in the brain state. The brain is creating it’s own feedback loop and recycling it’s own energy. Self-generated energy.

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5 Words of Love from page 21

final word. Beyond interpersonal love, the Indian tradition envisioned an impersonal form in which our sympathies gradually expand to embrace the whole of creation.

As a bridge to this, the sages came up with a path called “bhakti yoga,” which can be translated as the cultivation of the self through the love of God. Luckily for those who aren’t conventionally religious, bhakti need not be focused on God in the usual sense. It can be directed toward whatever higher ideal speaks to us most powerfully, be that kindness, truth, or social justice.

Think of leaders like Nelson Mandela, Jane Goodall, the Dalai Lama, and countless others whose love for the world was as passionate and powerful as any romance.

Through bhakti one learns that one’s true family is the family of life itself.

5. “Atma-Prema,” or unconditional selflove

Up until this point, each stage of love has been directed outward into the world.

But at its apex it comes full circle back to the self. Atmaprema can be translated as “self-love.” This is not the self as we usually think of it, but the essential self, the self that exists at the center of all of us.

What this means in practice is that we see ourselves in others and see others in ourselves. “The river that flows in you,” says the Indian mystical poet Kabir, “also flows in me.”

When we achieve atmaprema, we recognize that— when stripped of the accidents of our genetic heritage

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and upbringing—we are all expressions of the one life, the life that the Indian creation myth represented as Purusha. The great Sufi visionary Rumi gave voice to this paradoxical experience: I, you, he, she, we— in the garden of mystic lovers, t hese are not true distinctions.

Atma-prema arises from the realization that beyond our personal faults and foibles—beyond even our name and personal history—we are all children of the most high.

When we love ourselves and others in this profound yet impersonal way, our love loses its boundaries and becomes unconditional.

Love itself will teach us

We don’t live on the summit of universal love. We climb the mountain, and then we descend it in order to share what we’ve found with others.

The sages of ancient India did not view the five stages on love’s journey as mutually exclusive. You do not need to renounce sex and romance in pursuit of a “higher” love. All the forms coexist in the heart that is mature.

By fully developing each of the five stages in turn, we can free ourselves of the addiction to romance as well as our narrow attachment to kith and kin, and become transformed into genuinely full-hearted people.

Richard Schiffman wrote this article or YES! Magazine, a national, nonprofit media organization that fuses powerful ideas with practical actions. Richard is a poet and a journalist who spent five years in India studying Hindu philosophy. He is the author of two biographies. www. yesmagazine.org

from the publisher from page 4

start up a car.

We know some people have allergies that can make people sick and even result in death— yet some companies are unwilling to reveal the ingredients they put in food they sell.

Some of us make changes.

We watch what we eat and perhaps we install solar panels and drive electric cars. We know it makes a difference, but not a majority of us.

Unfortunately changes more often come about after the catastrophes, the injustices and the very preventable accidents occur. It may take people dying of thirst or dehydration, or maybe bad air, before the majority of us notice.

We see this pattern all the time in our personal lives, don't we? We diet when we discover our clothes won't fit. We watch what we eat more closely after we have an allergic reaction.

We budget much better when things are tight. It's what we commonly do.

So where is the hope?

Duhigg says that the periods after those tragedies are very powerful times for change.

Those are times when a lot can get done. People shift their priorities, find a common ground, join together and change something.

Don't look to the media for hope. They tell us how bad things are and how they affect us—if we tune in at 11. Bad news sells.

To find hope we have to look in another direction, don't we? When we look for it externally, we are just as likely to find someone selling us mouthwash or deodorant that they say will be the change we need in our life.

Hope is another one of those inside jobs. Good news doesn't consistently come from external

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Spiritual Living Circles 1st & 3rd Wednesdays at 6:30 pm

Rev. Jane Westerkamp

5120 Robinwood Road, Suite B-13, Bonita, CA 91902 (619) 475-1012 • www.cslbonita.org

Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life SundayS: Service at 10 am Meditation: 9:30 am

Rev. debby O’dOnnell

Something Positive is Always Happening Here!

3320 Monroe Street, Carlsbad • Carlsbad CA 92008 ClaSSeS at 390 Oak Avenue Ste H, Carlsbad 760-434-9579 • www.cslcarlsbad.org

Rev. matti dObbS

Hello Everyone! Hope the New Year is off to a great start for you. We are getting warmed up at The Life Connection. If you have seen the difference between our December and January issues, you are aware of the shift. It was only six months ago that I was handed my first copy of TLC and told I should go meet Steve (TLC publisher).

This serendipitously came into my life during a time of contemplation and transition --while halfway around the world. I was having a great conversation with Marlene (Steve’s good friend, ex-wife and former TLC partner) in Penang, Malaysia discussing many of the topics that I am so passionate about. She pulled out a few copies of TLC and showed me interviews she had done with some of my favorite authors—about books that were on my shelf! It instantly flowed naturally with her, so I trusted when she expressed how perfect this new venture would be for me. Both of the times I met with her were during soulful trips.

The first to Bali and most recently was Sri Lanka. Everything happens for a reason.

Since I was enrolled in a Ph.D. program and beginning the dissertation phase, I thought writing for TLC would be a very synergistic fit. I have never studied journalism before, yet found myself needing to compose papers on health psychology, neuroscience, consciousness and humanity. Once I flew out and met Steve, it clicked and I have been back every month since.

I saw what an incredible opportunity it was to help “connect” a community of like-minded individuals.

from the publisher from page 29 sources. Remembering that even when events appear tragic—and are on some level—they can still contribute to moving us in a different direction and can offer hope. Sometimes bad news may be exactly what is needed for change to happen.

As Duhigg also shows, it takes people looking from a perspective of what works to resolve the problem—not what is simply is best solution for them or maintains their authority. It's looking from the perspective that says we need change.

It's not always easy to see the good part. Keeping the faith these days can seem like a full-time job. Finding sources of inspiration that sustain us helps; sharing our hope for a better world with others helps too.

Avoiding disasters is preferable, but if they happen isn't it our job—if we want things to go in a different direction—to keep the faith and to be working on alternatives that can replace what's breaking down? Are there better ways to review shootings? Are there bet30 | The Life Connection

D February 2015

Note from Amelia

Coming from Tennessee, then Sarasota Florida, I have not been accustomed to more than four interstate exits in a city. I loved the beautiful beaches in Florida, but there is a whole different vibe on the West Coast that attracted me. I had been living out of a hotel, yet finally just found something that will work for a few months, perhaps more.

When I first arrived I searched for a source of information to tell me where to go in this big city. Then I realized the opportunity that was sitting right in front of me. I noticed ways I could help expand TLC to make it more of a resource that can help us connect a conscious community. Steve enthusiastically agreed and put me in charge of TLC expansion. This focus has led me to the new Local Faves column.

Seems I was ready to take my next step on the entrepreneurial train and set out on an endeavor to help create selfempowerment in a new way for San Diego. On January 7th I committed to flying out with two big checked bags, and all I could fit above and below my seat. Since I arrived life has been moving non-stop. I am so excited to explore this beautiful area, meet new people and get to know San Diego. I appreciate this opportunity and look forward to a new expansive journey. TLC has been around for almost thirty years. Please reach out and let me know how we can make it even better for you this next thirty years! Cheers!

Peace, Amelia Leigh

ter ways to power us—our cars and homes? Doesn't it help if we can offer alternatives and demonstrate that it is possible to live a sustainable and healthful lifestyle?

The "bad news" likely means we are just that much closer to change. We are moving closer to that critical mass that brings change.

If you look at the world and don't have faith in a higher power that enables you to accept that things are unfolding as they should, you can always put your faith in human nature and know that eventually, once things get bad enough, people will notice and change something.

That's not just accepting the "bad." Events can upset us and call us to take some action for change. If that's how we react, it can be good, right? Or we can talk about how awful things are.

Have a great month, Steve Hays

The Southern California Spring Forest Qigong Community invites you to welcome

Qigong Master Chunyi Lin

Public Talk & Heart-Opening Meditation Thursday, February 19

“Born A Healer” Friday & Saturday, February 20 & 21

Level 1 — “Heal Yourself ” Monday, February 23

Level 2 — “Becoming a Healer” Tuesday & Wednesday, February 24 & 25

Encinitas, CA • February 19–25, 2015

A Healer in Every Family and A World Without Pain www.springforestqigong.com • 952-593-5555

www.LifeConnectionMagazine.com

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2—The Life ConneCTion

% December 2014