JANUARY 2024
T H E
Defining Beauty
THROUGH NATURE by Dulce Garcia Morman
Let there be
Resolve to Practice
MINDFUL SELF-COMPASSION in 2024 by Julie Potier
PEACEONEARTH
The Eden Magazine
@The Eden Magazine
Photo by Jess Bailey
@The Eden Magazine
3 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e May 2021
Photo by ISABELLE RUEN
Discover the path to a peaceful life among other living beings. We are all made of vibration and light in the universe to manifest our energy around all livingness.
DINA MORRONE ALEXIA MELOCCHI
Maryam Morrison
SHERRI CORTLAND
Susanna Schroadter
Polly Wirum
MEET OUR TEAM JAN WAKEFIELD
ZEE
PHILIP SMITH
EDWARD HAKOPIAN
GREG DOHERTY
ISABELLE RUEN
4 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
NIKKI PATTILLO
DULCE GARCIA-MORMAN
JOE MAGNANI & JARED SCHLACHET JSQUARED PHOTOGRAPHY
SHERI DETERMAN
LISA JOY WALTON
JOE SANTOS, JR.
BRAD WALLACE
ARTIN MARDIROSIAN
BEN ROLLINS
GRETA PAZZAGLIA
EDEN T H E
MAGAZINE
Since 2010 The Eden Magazine is a free online publication focuses on spreading compassion to all Sentient Beings living in a healing and peaceful world FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MARYAM MORRISON EXECUTIVE EDITOR/ CONTRIBUTING WRITER DINA MORRONE COMMUNICATION DIRECTOR/ CONTRIBUTING WRITER ALEXIA MELOCCHI CONTRIBUTING WRITERS SUSANNA SCHROADTER DULCE GARCIA-MORMAN SHERRI CORTLAND JOE SANTOS, JR. JAN WAKEFILED NIKKI PATTILLO POLLY WIRUM ZEE GUEST WRITER PHILIP SMITH CONTRIBUTING STYLISTS + MAKEUP ARTIST EDWARD HAKOPIAN LISA JOY WALTON GRAPHICS & PHOTOGRAPHY JSQUARED PHOTOGRAPHY @J2PIX ARTIN MARDIROSIAN (Nexision) SHERI DETERMAN GRETA PAZZAGLIA GREG DOHERTY BEN ROLLINS ISABELLE RUEN WEB DEVELOPER BRAD WALLACE https://bradwallacedesign.com/ 325 N. Maple Dr. Po Box 5132 Beverly Hills, CA 90209
To purchase a copy visit us in www.theedenmagazine.com Eden Magazine is a non-profit monthly online magazine. We aim to create a better environment where we live among other living beings in peace and harmony. We support artists that their work matches our criteria. If you would like to submit your artwork, article or/and your photography for our future issues please contact Maryam Morrison at; maryammorrison@theedenmagazine.com The Eden Magazine reviews article content for accuracy before the date of publication. The views expressed in the articles reflect the author(s) opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher and editor. The published material, adverts, editorials, and all other content is published in good faith. 5 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
CONTENTS
Table of
8
8
32
26
46 56
WHAT IS THERE WAS A RIGHT WHALE SANCTUARY? by Dr. Rob Moir
16
LET THERE BE PEACE ON EARTH by Nikki Pattillos
26
RESOLVE TO PRACTICE MINDFUL SELF-COMPASSION IN 2024 by Julie Potiker
32
ADDRESSING THE PHYSICAL, & EMOTIONAL OF A PSYCHOSOCIAL IMPLICATION CANCER DIAGNOSIS AND SURVIVORSHIP by Yoli Origel
38
ARE YOU A FAN OF POSITIVE THINKING, THEN THINK TWICE by Isha Foundationn
42
HOW DOGS, CATS, AND OTHER COMPANION ANIMALS CAN BE A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION TO DO GOOD by Christine Dorchak & Carey Thail
46
WHAT IS THE DIFFEERENCE BETWEEN RESILIENCE & POSTTRAUMATIC GROWTH? by Christy Gibson, MD,
56
FLOURISH BEAUSE by Kay Whitaker
68
THE SEARCH OF INNER PEACE by Susanna Schroadter
72
START 2024 WITH MESSAGE FROM YOUR GUIDE by Sherri Cortland
76
WHAT YOU DON'T WANT TO HEAR by Zee
80
IS THERE LIFE AFTER DEATH? by Polly Wirum
68 80
Cover Photo by GREG DOHERTY, Edited by ARTIN MARDIROSIAN (Nexision)
Happy 2024
84
DEFINING BEAUTY THROUGH NATURE by Dulce Garcia-Morman
88
ISREAL WHERE HISTORY & SPIRITUALITY COME ALIVE by Jan Wakefiled, M.A.
96
THE POWER OF PARROTS by Lynn Page & Leslie Rugg
102
WELLMESS TIPS TO HELP RELIEVE SYMPTOMS
72
96
76
102 88
What if there was a Right Whale National Marine Sanctuary? by Dr. Rob Moir
8 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
The Problem The North Atlantic right whale is a critically endangered whale. In the 1970s, with the first whale watches, there were estimated to be 350 right whales, and the population was growing. Then, in 2017, right whales took a turn for the worse. By 2020, the population had fallen to 338 right whales, with only 50-70 breeding females. We must now do more to protect and restore right whales. Stellwagen Bank Sanctuary In 1992, when there were about 370 right whales, the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary was established under the auspices of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The first order of business was to establish its advisory council with selected individuals to represent conservation, education, research, recreational and commercial fishing, diving, whale watching, business, maritime heritage, and a youth seat. The council also included representatives from the Sanctuary’s government partners, including the Coast Guard, New England Fishery Management Council, NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service, and Massachusetts state agencies. To protect whales in the Sanctuary, an agreement was made with the U.S. Coast Guard to increase air and sea patrols. Cooperative work with the National Marine Fisheries Service, conservation organizations, and the whale-watching industry led to the development of a set of whale-watching guidelines for the Northeast Region. Whale Disentanglement Network The Sanctuary established an emergency whale disentanglement network with the Center for Coastal Studies and other partners. To avoid entanglements, a Sanctuary researcher developed break-away lobster trap lines that sank between pots and earned a Ph.D. Working with the U.S. Coast Guard and the International Maritime Organization, a mandatory ship reporting system (MSRS) was implemented in July 1999. All ships traveling through the northeast right whale critical habitat (which included the Sanctuary) were required to report their location, course, speed, and destination. In return, they received automated messages containing more specific information about whale sightings in the area and precautionary tactics, like changing course and speed, to avoid contact or collision with whales.
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Ship Collision Avoidance System At the Sanctuary’s urging, the Coast Guard developed a ship collision avoidance system called the Automatic Identification System (AIS). All ships over 300 gross tons were required to carry an AIS transponder and broadcast the ship’s position, course, and heading, as well as its ship particulars and cargo. This data was used to better understand ship traffic patterns and speeds concerning the distribution and abundance of whales to reduce collisions. Sanctuary scientists worked with whale research organizations to compile 25 years of whale-watching data. Stellwagen Bank is a rectangular threshold, running north to south, between Massachusetts Bay and the Gulf of Maine. Surprisingly, whale sightings were not uniform across the bank but instead shaped more like a figure eight. Northwest ship traffic to Boston bisected the lower portion of the high-density whale area. Here was the greatest risk for deadly ship strikes of whales. Changes to the Shipping Lane & Whale Alert App By working closely with the shipping industry and other partners in NOAA, the Sanctuary’s proposal was to move the shipping channel 12 degrees more easterly to cross the Bank at a shorter distance where whales were less abundant, thus protecting whales from getting struck by ships. Approved in 2007, adjusting the shipping lane resulted in a 58% reduction in the risk of ship strikes for right whales and an 81% reduction for all baleen whales. In 2008, in response to the proposed installation in Boston of two of the nation’s first offshore deepwater liquid natural gas (LNG) ports, the two LNG companies were required to install the world’s first automatic whale detection system. Ten “listening buoys” were located along
10 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
the shipping channel into Boston. Sounds picked up by the buoys were recorded and sent to Cornell’s Ornithology Laboratory to identify and confirm the presence of whales. A message was sent back to activate a 10-knot slow speed zone around the buoy, and a notice was sent to LNG ships to slow down. Seasonal slow speed zones in the presence of right whales were set up by NOAA offshore of major East Coast ports from the whale breeding ground off Jacksonville, Florida, north to Boston. Sanctuary researchers used the Automatic Identification System (AIS) to analyze the tracks and speeds of all vessels and sent annual report cards to the companies as an incentive to protect whales.
We have been increasing our use of these nutrient-rich waters. Right whales are harmed by increased ship traffic, pollution including herbicides (glyphosate) from the land that bioaccumulate up food chains, shifting currents, and warming waters. In the Gulf of Maine, phytoplankton, plants at the foundation of ocean food chains, are 65% less productive than 20 years ago. In 2012, the Whale Alert app provided a clearinghouse of information for mariners on the location of whales. The “listening buoys” documented the return of some right whales to Massachusetts as early as January of that year. Increasing Right Whale Population By 2013, the right whale population had risen to 476. With an increasing population, some right whales left the Gulf of Maine for the larger Gulf of St. Lawrence. Right whale numbers went down when researchers reported fewer whales in their usual seasonal haunts until 2015 and 2016, when 40 to 45 right whales were found north of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Researchers have identified individual right whales based on patterns of bristled facial hair and callused skin called callosities. Examining photographs of the two sets of whales observed in Canadian waters during the two summers, researchers identified 74 individual whales. It is unknown whether different right whales came during different summers or if the survey area was too small to include all of the whales in one summer. What is known is that it’s very difficult to count whales in the rollicking sea.
Islands. I doubt these whales were counted, as they were outside of the survey area. Unusual Mortality Event We anchored for the night near the mouth of the bay in Lark Harbor. At sunset, a rainbow rose over the table-topped mountain. The next morning, clearing away from Newfoundland, a shipmate from Corner Brook told me a dead right whale had been found in Bottle Cove, which is on the outer side of the peninsula less than two miles West of Lark Harbor. Photos of the whale carcass revealed what looked like a gray 40 ft drysuit tossed across the rocks. It was only skin and blubber, empty of bones and internal organs. This whale had been examined many weeks earlier, floating dead on the other side of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and had died of a ship strike off the coast of New Brunswick.
In 2017, 100 right whales were counted in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. This might not have meant more right whales because efforts and the search area nearly doubled. That summer, I boarded a sailing ship in Corner Brook, Newfoundland, where locals were thrilled to see two right whales feeding in the Bay of 11 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
Twelve right whales were found dead by ship strikes and entanglements in the Gulf of St. Lawrence that summer. One right whale calf had been found dead in Cape Cod Bay the previous April. NOAA proclaimed 2017 as an Unusual Mortality Event, and unfortunately, the tragic event is ongoing. The whale population is falling. Today, only about 350 right whales remain. We have been increasing our use of these nutrient-rich waters. Right whales are harmed by increased ship traffic, pollution including herbicides (glyphosate) from the land that bioaccumulate up food chains, shifting currents, and warming waters. In the Gulf of Maine, phytoplankton, plants at the foundation of ocean food chains, are 65% less productive than 20 years ago. These ocean waters are impacted by climate change. Our systemic challenges have become more complex, and the corresponding solutions must be adaptive and more robust. Solution: A New MA/RI Right Whale National Marine Sanctuary It is time for community groups, interests, and organizations to call for the MA/RI Right Whale National Marine Sanctuary to protect the right whales and this critical shoaly marine habitat. This can be done through education, research, and resource protection efforts informed by an active advisory council. The Sanctuary would work with community and interest groups, including conservationists, scientists, fishers, windmill and boat operators, government agencies, and others. Named positions on the Advisory 12 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
Council would include Narraganset and Wampanoag Aquinna representatives in an effort to partner with indigenous knowledge holders. Adjacent to and south of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (842 square miles), the Right Whale NMS might be 7,000 square miles, including Cape Cod Bay, around the outer Cape across Nantucket Shoals to Block Island. The boundary may be 640 miles, including 275 miles of coastal Massachusetts and Block Island, Rhode Island. To restore the right whale population, quarterly meetings of the Sanctuary’s Advisory Council would advance the work of the Sanctuary to develop comprehensive interagency plans and increase data sharing between academia, government, industry, and community groups. The objectives are to maximize the available data and increase the analytical rigor to develop and implement directed studies of right whale population-level changes. The Sanctuary works closely with local, state, and government agencies to continue implementing improvements for the right whales. The lesson of the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is that right whales benefitted, and the population grew when diverse interests collaborated at all levels of government. But Stellwagen is north of the sandy shoaling waters that hungry right whales rely on to break their winter fast. WORKING IN CONCERT WITH OTHERS, the MA/RI Right Whale National Marine Sanctuary protects and restores right whales.
Dr. Rob Moir is a nationally-recognized and award-winning environmentalist. He is president & executive director of Cambridge, MA-based Ocean River Institute, a nonprofit providing expertise, services, resources, and information unavailable on a localized level to support the efforts of environmental organizations. Please visit www.oceanriver.org for more information.
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Get Your Own Copy Today Order the latest edition by visiting our website www.theedenmagazine.com
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t e L
There Be
Peace
on Earth by Nikki Pattillo
O
ver many centuries, our world has witnessed epic and countless instances of wars, conflicts, and opposition. Throughout this, there existed the peerless and rarest people among us who preached and practiced theories of peace and encouraged us all to evolve into more enlightened people coexisting harmoniously on our planet. World peace is defined as an ideal of freedom, peace, and happiness among and within all nations and/or people. It generally includes an idea of planetary nonviolence by which nations willingly cooperate, either voluntarily or by virtue of a system of governance that prevents warfare. Today, peace has predominantly become political work toward the settlement of issues between nations through military involvement, cessation of arms and weapons, and dialogue on less violent civilian matters. Peace has also included some humanitarian efforts that stretch its helping hands to embattlement-torn regions in our world. When thinking about peace, this idea does not mean an absence of conflict, as differences among people have always been and will always be present. It means solving our differences with peaceful acts such as dialogue, education, knowledge, and humanitarian acts.
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IF WE COULD BECOME MORE PEACEFUL, GENTLE, AND CARING IN ALL OUR INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER BEINGS AND THE WORLD, THEN WE COULD ALL ENJOY A CULTURE OF PEACE. We are all human beings sharing one planet, our Earth. Whether we want to or not, we must learn to coexist with forethought and in loving ways, or we are failing as human beings. We must also accept the ways of our hearts to find peace. By accepting love, compassion, justice, forgiveness, mindfulness, tolerance, and peace into our spirits, we strive to become better people who are more balanced, tolerant, and loving. We must work on accepting and tolerating one another's differences while searching for peace. This is important when living in loving tolerance of each other in order to seek and find peace within our hearts and spirits. We must remember that intolerance leads to hatred and division when addressing peacefulness. We must teach our children that dialogue, not violence, is the best and most practical way to solve conflict. Our children and future generations are responsible for ensuring that our world becomes a more peaceful place for all. The educational systems of our future should be a place where greater emphasis is placed on strengthening human abilities, such as warm-heartedness, a sense of oneness, and love. With greater clarity, we must see that our spiritual well-being depends not only on religion but also on our innate human nature, our natural affinity for goodness, compassion,
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and caring for others. Whether or not we belong to a religion or some spiritual practice, we all have a fundamental and profoundly innate sense of morals and ethics within our spirits. We need to nurture this shared innate sense. Ethics, as opposed to religion, are grounded within our nature and humanity. This is how we are connected and can work on ourselves and our spiritual growth. Religion, spirituality, and ethics put into practice may be a magical combination to finding out how to coexist with each other peacefully. If empathy is the basis of human coexistence, it shows that human development relies on cooperation, not competition. Cooperation in loving-kindness, compassion, and a new way of being is a way that cuts straight to the heart of what it is to be human. We each have the ability and capacity to be the bridge to peace and an instrument of calm. We must learn now that humanity is all one. We are all connected physically, mentally, and emotionally. We, as humanity, still focus far too much on our differences instead of our commonalities. Again, we must live in loving tolerance of each other's differences in order to find peace. It is more important now than ever to understand this. Today, political leaders take peace into their own hands and play a role in making or breaking our nation's policies. Nations engage in dialogue and negotiations to try and calm their ethnic problems and border issues. Political, diplomatic, and media powers contribute to this peace process, but hatred always seems to dominate the effort. More than half of the fighting occurring today is caused by and among warring religious groups. Inter-religion and intra-religion differences are not new, but extreme political and religious differences complicate these wars. Loving tolerance is again the theme that needs to be played out
To strive to live in great peace on our planet, we can have a vision of spiritual and social unity. We must all find a place where we genuinely identify and care for one another rather than simply tolerate each other's existence. Peace starts within every one of us. When there is peace within ourselves, we can have peace around us. Perhaps we have been growing and evolving as human beings long enough now and have the capabilities to find peace, live in peace, and be peace. If we look at a thesaurus, it has 579 antonyms or words that are the "opposite of peace" in it. This covers everything from war to conflict, hatred, unrest, agitation, pain, agony, anger, and more than 570 other feelings. As spiritual beings, we allow many things like these antonyms to disturb our peace. For some reason, it seems that anything that activates our sadness, anger, or fear has the potential to disturb peacefulness and peaceful ways. We can reach a state of peace in many ways. Fundamentally, peace comes when we stop thinking thoughts that disturb us.
among these warring groups who are failing to find peaceful ways to address and solve their different ideologies and views. The central power of peace for all people and all nations may lie in the practice of spirituality. Resorting to the spiritual ways of seeking inner peace helps bring peacefulness to all who seek it. The gap between inner peace and global peace should be filled with a path of nonviolence and a better understanding of the messages we should all strive for concerning global peace. Peace and nonviolence are the two pillars of any peace process that upholds the human race's livelihood. They are inseparable. It must be the fruit of any nonviolent action or protest. Global peace has been hindered by many challenges that include both natural and human-made causes. The rationale behind achieving peace is the positive understanding of give and take, humanity, forgiveness, and nonviolence. Understanding this will help put people on the correct path toward peacefulness. We cannot have enemies if we make peace with our opponents. It is that simple.
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TO STRIVE TO LIVE IN GREAT PEACE ON OUR PLANET, WE CAN HAVE A VISION OF SPIRITUAL AND SOCIAL UNITY. WE MUST ALL FIND A PLACE WHERE WE GENUINELY IDENTIFY AND CARE FOR ONE ANOTHER RATHER THAN SIMPLY TOLERATE EACH OTHER'S EXISTENCE.
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We can achieve this through distraction or temporarily forgetting about something, or we can address the issue and transform the situation. We can also visit peace through the practice of regular meditation. Regular visits through meditation put the ups and downs of life into perspective, even the highs and lows of the emotional roller coaster, and connect us to the peace within our spirits. In life, peace comes more consistently when what we think, feel, say, and do are in alignment. This happens when we are true to ourselves in how we live, and we live life according to what is important and what we value and believe. Peace is also quite dynamic, constantly changing, and actively progressing. It is not merely the absence of worldly conflict. As a place we can all visit and experience peace. We can also visit a peaceful meditation in our minds and hearts when we calm our thoughts or connect with something that frees us from what is bothering us. Being peaceful requires daily courage. The pursuit of it challenges us to address situations daily as they come up. Sometimes, that means we have to look deep within and let things that are bothering us go from our consciousness. It 22 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
may mean we have to take action, and in other cases, it may challenge us to have a conversation or even change our viewpoint when interacting with others. All of this takes courage and effort. This applies to people, companies, organizations, teams, and countries. As life changes, we change and grow from what is happening. Life can make us bitter, broken, or better. Peace means always choosing better. Peace, like happiness, is always an inside job. Spending time on what is important to ourselves and being true to that conviction of peace is key to our inner peace. Only our hearts can tell us what that means. Peace is personal to every human being on this planet. Peace is not always something we can create; peace is not something that happens. Peace is something that should always be present. Generally, the peace that we achieve is only about making ourselves comfortable. When we look at the mountains, we are peaceful. If an elephant suddenly rushes out of the forest straight toward us—we can lose all our peace. This peace is of no great significance. It is better to be agitated because if we are agitated, at least we will search to find this happy state again.
Peace means something in our universe. It can sometimes be something that we create and something that happens. But peace can also be something that always is. What happens on the surface of our lives is superficial to the development of our spirits. This is just like the ocean. On the ocean's surface, we will see waves and tremendous turbulence. But if we go deep down, it is perfectly peaceful below the surface. The fundamental quality of existence is always peace. To be peaceful is the ultimate goal because when we are peaceful and joyful, our bodies and minds work their best—and this is the basic parameter for success on our planet. Our efficiency and productivity do not depend on our desire to do something. It is dependent on our capability. Our capability becomes impaired when we are in some state of unhappiness, frustration, or depression. Because of this duality, peace affects our state of mind and our ability to accomplish other goals in our lives by ourselves, each other, and the world.
Special Thanks to: Make up: Bernard Ichkanian Photography: Greg Doherty Editing: Dina Morrone Feature photos: Giulia Lupetti Alexia Melocchi Nunzia Giannattasio Springer Natalie Marukian Mila Khalatian Annabelle Bergold Zaydin Carlson Zayyan Carlson Samantha Elain Hazle Sophia Victoria Hazle Tazio Fardellone
If we could become more peaceful, gentle, and caring in all our interactions with other beings and the world, then we could all enjoy a culture of peace. Yet, to achieve such a goal is not always easy. To do so requires effort, resolve, patience, cooperation, and practice. We must stop thinking of peace as some distant and perhaps unachievable goal and make it our goal right now. Our spiritual development hinges on finding peace on this planet, which is why addressing it is so desperately important. Ultimately, we must remember these words: "There is no path to peace; peace is the path." 23 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
G
iulia
Lupetti by Alexia Melocchi
I
talian model, influencer, and actress Giulia Lupetti graciously appeared on this month's cover, participating in the important message of the January 2024 issue. We had the opportunity to ask her a few questions for our readers to get to know her bet-
ter. What motivated the move to the United States, and what was your vision behind it? The move to the U.S. was prompted by a desire to break through career limitations in Europe. Feeling a ceiling in my artistic growth, I seized an opportunity to attend classes at the Ivana Chubbuck Studio in Los Angeles. Since childhood, I've had an intuitive pull toward LA. The vision was clear—to connect with like-minded individuals and surround myself with an artistic community that resonated with my essence. Your career in the U.S. took a turn toward film production. Can you share more about your collaboration with Catalyst Studios and why empowering female filmmakers is crucial to you? My production journey started with roles like script supervision, leading to my short film, "Memento Audere Semper." Joining Catalyst Studios as Head of Communications and partnerships aligned with my commitment to empowering female filmmakers. Catalyst focuses on delivering commercially successful films while providing opportunities for visionary women. It's about spotlighting female talent in every role, both in front of and behind the camera, aiming for social impact.
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Your spiritual practice includes meditation, Face Yoga, and more. How do these practices contribute to your daily well-being? Meditation has been a part of my life since I was young, when I visited India with my parents, and it has evolved with time. Starting my day with a cold plunge, Kundalini Yoga, and Face Yoga helps me find balance. Face Yoga has been transformative during challenging times, harmonizing my physical and emotional well-being. You teach Face Yoga on Instagram. Where did you learn this practice, and why is it important? Face Yoga became significant during my childhood in India. Over the years, I crafted a unique formula, incorporating breathwork and emotional freedom techniques. It's not just about appearance but holistic well-being. It helped me during tough times, proving the power of thoughts combined with actions. I experienced and proved the powerful transformation this practice brought into my life. It helped me tremendously during tough times, where, due to an accident, I was told not to be able to return to my regular face again; I proved them wrong. I believed in what I had learned and the power of my thoughts and actions. So, beyond pursuing a timeless and fresh appearance, my Face Yoga method becomes a holistic practice that harmonizes the physical and emotional aspects, touching the core of my emotional well-being. Your volunteer work with animals is admirable. Can you share more about your experiences and special bond with your dog, LUPO? My love for animals has been lifelong. From rescuing various
creatures to initiating a nonprofit in Rome, animal advocacy has been rewarding. LUPO, my min pin, is more than a pet; he's family. His unwavering love has been a source of strength during dark moments. You're actively supporting a cause related to your hairstylist friend in Italy. Can you tell us more about it and why it is significant to you? I'm supporting Cristiano Rocchi, a hairstylist in Rome who provides free wigs to women undergoing cancer treatment. Having lost family members to cancer, this cause is close to my heart—Cristiano's. Cristiano's efforts aim to restore confidence and beauty to women facing profound challenges. Congratulations on your recent marriage! How has being married impacted your well-being and outlook on life? Jamie, my husband, arrived at a time when I was content being single. Our relationship felt natural and easy. Being married brings partnership in everyday challenges, a sense of trust, and the knowledge that you have someone rooting for you. It profoundly impacts well-being and adds a sense of belonging. The January cover of EDEN Magazine is about peace and preserving the planet. How can we spread awareness that war is not the answer? As Maria Teresa said, "I will never attend an anti-war rally, but if you have a peace rally, invite me." Advocating for peace in everyday conversations and choosing kindness, love, and forgiveness can significantly impact. Spreading positive messages through various mediums, including magazines like EDEN, contributes to fostering a collective consciousness geared toward peace.
So, beyond pursuing a timeless and fresh appearance,
my Face Yoga
method becomes a
holistic practice
that harmonizes the physical and emotional aspects, touching the core of my emotional well-being.
25 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM eJANUARY 2024
An exceprt from the book How to stop beating yourself up and SNAP into self-kindness instead
Resolve to Practice
Mindful Self-Compassion in
2024 by Julie Potiker
D
o you have New Year's Year's resolutions for 2024? Most of us want to be healthier, wealthier, and wiser. But what if we're we're going about it backward?
New Year's resolutions usually focus on outward actions. We try to shame and "should" ourselves into eating healthier, going to the gym more often, or sticking to a budget. This approach may work for a few weeks, but more often than not, it ends with us getting discouraged and giving up. What if we start by treating ourselves with more kindness, compassion, and love instead of beating ourselves up? Studies show that people who are compassionate toward themselves are more likely to try again when they fail to achieve a goal. They are also able to cope with setbacks and stress more easily than people who tend to be self-critical. Because they recognize that everyone fails, they are more likely to see failure as an opportunity for growth rather than a blow to their self-concept.
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Photo by Divine Effion
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So, how do we become more kind and compassionate with ourselves? One of the best ways to do this is by practicing Mindful Self-Compassion. Kristen Neff and Chris Germer created the Mindful Self-Compassion curriculum. Mindfulness is the foundation of MSC because we need to become aware of and acknowledge our suffering in order to respond to our discomfort with kindness. The self-compassion part involves treating yourself as you would a dear friend when you are having a difficult time, failing, or noticing something about yourself you don't like. So, instead of just ignoring your pain and trying to tough it out, you stop to tell yourself, "This is really difficult right now. How can I comfort and care for myself in this moment?" Instead of mercilessly judging and criticizing yourself, your perceived inadequacies, or your shortcomings, you respond by being kind and understanding towards yourself. After all, who ever said you were supposed to be perfect? Most people want to change in ways that make them healthier and happier. When you mindfully show yourself compassion, you change because you care about yourself rather than because you feel worthless or inadequate. The carrot beats the stick! Perhaps most importantly, having compassion for yourself means honoring and accepting your humanness. Things will not always go the way you want them to. You will encounter frustrations and losses; you will make mistakes, bump up against your limitations, and fall short of your ideals. This is the human condition, a reality shared by all of us. The more you open your heart to this reality instead of con-
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stantly fighting against it, the more you will be able to feel compassion for yourself and all your fellow humans. So, how do you begin practicing Mindful Self-Compassion? I created a simple method defined by the acronym SNAP to help people cope with difficult feelings and the stress that comes with them. It works like this: S: Soothing Touch — When you feel stress or discomfort, where does it show up in your body? Place your hands over that area. It might be your chest or belly, hugging your upper arms, or cradling your face. Try different locations and see which feels most soothing. This supportive touch will allow oxytocin and endorphins to help calm your nervous system. N: Name the Emotion — Name what you are feeling in the moment. Is it worry? Sadness? Anger? Loneliness? Naming what you feel helps calm the stress response, giving you time to locate it in your body and soften around it.
Mindfulness is the foundation of MSC because we need to become aware of and acknowledge
our suffering in order to respond to our discomfort with kindness.
A: Act — It's time to use tools to help yourself feel better. Asking the ultimate Mindful Self-Compassion questions —1. "What do I need to hear right now?" — is the best place to start. Then say it to yourself. 2. "What do I need to do right now to shift my mood?" Then do what can reasonably be done with what you've you've got at the moment. If you are driving, it might be controlling your breathing, with your exhalation being longer than your inhalation to slow your blood pressure and heart rate. I often put one hand on the wheel and the other hand on my heart! With toddler tantrums, it can be helpful to drop your attention to the soles of your feet as you control your breathing to slow the whole show down. With teen or adult family drama, try to stay in your body, breathing in compassion for yourself because it's so difficult and breathing out compassion for them because they are suffering (even though their behavior might be disturbing). This can help calm your nervous system. Depending on your work situation, you may have more options for inthe-moment relief if you can close the door (even if it's in the bathroom stall) to give yourself a few minutes of quiet reflection. You can ground yourself with a polished stone that you keep on your desk, ground through the soles of your feet, take a break at the water cooler, or exhale longer than you inhale for a few rounds of breathing. P: Praise — Thank yourself for showing up day after day and trying to do your best. Thank the universe, or your spirit of choice, for giving you the strength and courage to keep on keeping on. And thank you for your practice in helping you manage stress.
With New Year's resolutions, you can use SNAP to pick yourself up rather than beat yourself up if, at first, you don't succeed. Perhaps you will want to try a more attainable goal, break your goal into baby steps, or give yourself more time to attain your goal. Whatever course you choose, you will be more resilient and more likely to keep trying when you are kind to yourself. So, in 2024, commit to treating yourself like your very best friend. Give yourself gentle, loving touches such as a hand on your heart or your arms wrapped around your shoulders. Acknowledge and support yourself through difficult moments (aloud or in your head) by saying things like, "Wow, this is really hard. I know how much this hurts. And I know you can get through it." Write yourself a love letter as if you were writing to your nearest and dearest, then read it aloud. Shower yourself with compassion and understanding. Take time away from the 24-hour news cycle. Yes, it's another election year, and that means the already chaotic 24-hour news cycle will only get more intense. Give yourself permission to step away, turn off the TV, and steer clear of political and social media streams when you need a break. Instead, take this time to do something positive and impactful — something that makes you feel good and helps others. Volunteer in your community. Donate to a charity for a cause you're you're passionate about. Positive actions will lift your spirits while also lifting up those around you. There are so many wonderful ideas for New Year's resolutions out there, from starting a gratitude journal to practicing relaxation techniques. When you think about it, they are all rooted in one resolution: to love yourself better in 2024!
Julie Potiker is a mindfulness expert with extensive certifications and teacher training in various tools and methods, including Mindful Self-Compassion. Her new book is SNAP! From Chaos to Calm. Julie helps others bring more peace and wellness into their lives through her Mindful Methods for Life program offerings. Julie's first book, Life Falls Apart, but You Don't Have To: Mindful Methods for Staying Calm in the Midst of Chaos, is now available on audiobook. Learn more at MindfulMethodsForLife.com.
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Photo by By Pajaros Volando AdobeStock
GO VEGAN
"Animals have souls Don’t put them in your bowls" 31 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
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Addressing the Physical, and Emotional,
of a Psychosocial Implications
Cancer Diagnosis and Survivorship by Yoli Origel
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Attributed to: Yoli Origel, UHSM Ambassador, Cancer Kinship Founder
Since the early 90s, the cancer survivor and thriver community has continued to grow, with there being an ongoing decline in cancer deaths due to the innovations of modern medicine. While the survival rate for some cancers is improving, there has been little work done to address the physical, emotional, and psychosocial effects of the disease on patients and those still living in fear of recurrence. Thankfully, new programs are emerging that aim to address the psychosocial and emotional implications of a cancer diagnosis to alleviate the distress and mental strain it and treatment can cause. Likewise, these programs support those in the survivorship community, helping them navigate the physical, emotional, and spiritual hurdles of the post-treatment journey.
The Mental and Emotional Challenges Early detection is essential to defeating cancer, but equally important to surviving and thriving is one’s mental health. As it stands, mental illness is a prevalent issue in the patient and survivor community. Research shows that major depression is more common among cancer patients than among the general population. Cancer patients regularly report feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation, all of which have adverse effects on their ability to recover and enjoy the highest quality of life (QoL). In fact, depression and anxiety can impede cancer treatment and recovery, even resulting in recurrence. Similarly, the risk of suicide increases considerably in the first year after diagnosis (which fluctuates depending on the type and prognosis of cancer)
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compared to the general population. Currently, there is a significant lack of awareness of mental illness and cancer – especially among the patients themselves. To that end, support programs strive to empower patients and those in the thriver community to overcome feelings of isolation and hopelessness, which can be just as vital to recovery and staving off recurrence as the actual treatment. When negative thoughts and emotions cloud the brain, it hinders the production of the chemicals that enable the body to heal. Long-term stress can increase the likelihood of people getting sick, resulting in high blood pressure, muscle pain, and stomach problems, and even make symptoms worse for some diseases. However, having a positive and more hopeful outlook can allow patients to handle their pain effectively and stay healthier.
The Necessity of Community, Peer Support and Mentorship One of the main ways these programs help cancer patients and thrivers maintain their mental and emotional health is by connecting them with a support community. Whether through family and friends or the church and other organizations, a strong community plays a crucial role during the most challenging times in peoples’ lives. For starters, having a support system helps cancer patients feel less socially isolated, providing them with a sounding board to express their thoughts and feelings, which can curb the harmful effects of mental illness. Amazingly, a review of 22 papers on lung cancer patients found evidence that connects improved social support and increased QoL. This review also found that a good QoL and diminished symptoms were more important for patients than the length of their life. These programs can provide their community members with life-saving resources, including access to local screening options, socialization events in non-clinical settings, and helpful tips such as dieting and exercise habits. Moreover, some programs will connect recently diagnosed cancer patients with a group of peers based on gender, age, and similar
types of cancer, decreasing feelings of anxiety and loneliness while improving the patient’s QoL. At the same time, there are mentorship programs that pair a newly diagnosed cancer patient with a survivor mentor for one-on-one encouragement, benefitting both parties enormously. The patient receives personalized support, enabling them to express concerns, ask questions, and hear first-hand accounts. The volunteer mentor also benefits as they obtain a sense of belonging and responsibility, which can help them settle into their new routine as a survivor and thriver.
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One of the main ways these programs help cancer patients and thrivers maintain their mental and emotional health is by connecting them with a support community. Whether through family and friends or the church and other organizations, a strong community plays a crucial role during the most challenging times in peoples’ lives. How Volunteering Can Enhance Quality of Life Volunteering is another overlooked means of improving one’s QoL. Research on activity theory, which suggests that productive activities are advantageous for older adults’ well-being, demonstrates that QoL may be affected by stopping or initiating volunteering. For example, findings indicate that volunteering has a positive impact on the self-esteem and autonomy of older adults, enhancing overall QoL. In contrast, the adverse effects occur when these individuals halt such activities. In the same way, volunteering, like the mentorship program, is an excellent way for cancer patients and those in the thriver community to sustain and enrich their QoL. Spending time in service of others decreases stress and increases relaxed feelings through dopamine release. Volunteering via transmitting skills and giving one’s talents in areas they find meaningful will foster feelings of satisfaction, purpose, and selfworth. Recall that reducing stress and other negative emotions is key to improving health and staving off recurrence as well as other health problems like heart disease and stroke. In fact, studies show volunteerism lowers mortality rates since it increases 36 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM eJANUARY 2024
social interaction and bolsters new or existing relationships, a vital component in the fight against cancer. Raising Awareness on the Full Scope of Treatment While it is encouraging to see new programs and organizations actively address issues like mental illness plaguing the patient and thriver community, there is much work concerning raising awareness. Most cancer patients and survivors are still unaware of the heightened risks of suicide or the necessity of community; surprisingly, many of the studies surveying these topics highlight the lack of high-quality research. As such, it is paramount that those who are or have battled cancer, including their friends and family, educate themselves on the full scope of treatment involved with a diagnosis to ensure the highest QoL for themselves and their loved ones.
Yoli Origel is a UHSM ambassador and the executive director and founder of Cancer Kinship, whose mission is “to empower the cancer community to confidently face the disease” by engaging the cancer community in programs to address social determinants of health and mental health challenges. Yoli is a 15-year Stage III Triple Negative Invasive Ductal Carcinoma survivor. After losing her mother and sister to metastatic breast cancer, she has dedicated her life to supporting fellow cancer warriors, especially patients and survivors experiencing health inequities, as well as population groups such as individuals who are uninsured and underinsured and are at risk of falling between the cracks. Her extensive nonprofit experience spans nearly 30 years, including with the Boys & Girls Club Youth Advisory Council in Central California and Southern California YMCA branches. Prior to launching Cancer Kinship in 2018, she served for nearly ten years as a Nonprofit Solutions Specialist at OneOC. In this Southern California nonprofit resource center, she helped guide thousands of local nonprofit leaders to advance their missions effectively. She serves as an Advisory Member of UCLA Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Equity and as an Internal Advisory Committee Member of the Biobehavioral Shared Resource at UCI Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. She is active in the California Dialogue on Cancer (CDOC) Survivorship Coalition, and most recently, she joined the Equity in OC Taskforce.
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Sadhguru, Isha Foundation
Are You A Fan of Positive Thinking
Photo by Sage Friedman
Then Think Again
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SGTW: When you say positive thinking, in a way, you are trying to escape reality. You only want to look at one side of life while missing out on the other. You may ignore the other, but the other will not ignore you. "Positive thinking is a popular concept nowadays, but is it the right way to conduct your life? Sadhguru looks at how you may want to ignore the negative, but the negative may not ignore you." Sadhguru: Too many people in the world are always talking about “positive thinking.” When you say positive thinking, in a way, you are trying to escape reality. You only want to look at one side of life while missing out the other. You may ignore the other, but the other will not ignore you. If you do not think about the negative things in the world, you will live in a fool’s paradise, and life will get you for it. Right now, suppose black clouds are hanging in the sky. You can ignore them, but they are not going to ignore you. When it rains, it rains. When you get drenched, you get drenched. You can ignore it and just think everything is going to be okay – it has some psychological and social relevance but
no existential relevance. It will only be solace. You try to solace yourself by moving from reality to unreality because somewhere, you believe that you can’t handle reality. And you probably can’t, so you succumb to positive thinking. You want to skip the negative and just think positively. Or in other words, you try to avoid the negative. Whatever you try to avoid becomes the very basis of your consciousness. What you pursue will not be the strongest point in you. What you try to avoid will always be the strongest point in you. Anyone who tries to eliminate one aspect of life and live with the other will only bring misery upon himself. Dual Nature The whole existence is happening between two dualities. What you refer to as positive and negative is masculine and feminine, light and darkness, day and night. Without this, how will life happen? It is like saying you don’t want death; you want only life – there is no such thing. Only because there is death, there is life. Only because there is darkness, there is light. It is just that you don’t allow the negative to overwhelm you. Let both of them be there and see how to make both of them productive.
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If you look at life just the way it is, it is positive and negative in equal terms, always. If you look at it as it is, neither the negative nor the positive can overwhelm you. Only because they are equal, everything is happening the way it is happening. You have to harness both and produce what you can.
Infrastructures to Raise Human Consciousness
Experience Yoga in its classical form at Isha Yoga Center Los Angeles and Isha Institute of Inner-sciences. Established by Sadhguru, the centers serve as powerful spaces for inner transformation and raising human consciousness. Located in northern Los Angeles County and Tennessee respectively, the centers offer an array of Yoga and meditation programs within a vibrant and conducive ambience. You are invited to Free Yoga Day, a monthly open-doors event at the center. On this day, we offer a variety of free sessions dedicated to educating and empowering individuals to take charge of their wellbeing through simple but powerful practices sourced from the Yogic tradition. Learn more at ishausa.org/la
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A light turns on because there are positive and negative aspects to electricity. A positive result is happening, so we don’t mind the negative. If there is a man and a woman, if joy is coming out of them, we don’t mind the man or the woman. Suppose they started creating a lot of negative results; now we think they are a problem. It is not the positive and negative which is the problem; it is the end result that you produce. You don’t have to resist the positive or the negative; you just have to make a positive
result out of it, which is just a question of your capability. If we are concerned about this life, it is very important that we are truthful about where we really are. Only then can we make a journey. Positive thinking has destroyed many possibilities for people. Positive thinking is like this – there’s a poem written by a positive thinker: A little bird did fly in the sky. Shit it did in my eye. But I can neither worry nor cry, Because I’m a positive thinker. I thank God and pray that buffaloes don’t fly. If you are not willing to see life the way it is, there is no way to take a step about it. You can’t do anything about it. You can only do funny things mentally, which can keep you entertained for a while but will never take you anywhere.
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How
Dogs, Cats,
and Other
Companion Animals
Can Be a Source of Inspiration to Do Good by Christine Dorchak & Carey Theil
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E
very home where a companion animal resides has countless tales of comfort, companionship, and unspoken understanding. The animals we live with, especially dogs, become family. We love them fiercely and are driven to do everything in our power to make them happy and keep them healthy and safe. When we open our hearts to one animal, a transformative journey begins. This journey often starts with the infectious warmth of a wagging tail or the soothing purr of a contented feline, but it soon extends far beyond the walls of our home. One pet can become a gateway to a more profound love and understanding of an entire species or the broader animal world.
Dogs and other animals also have a unique way of simplifying complex emotions and motives, bringing clarity to human endeavors and compelling us to act with compassion. This is exactly what happened to us. First, decades ago, when Christine was walking her beloved dog, Kelsey, the two were hit by a speeding train. Kelsey had managed to pull them slightly off course, thus preventing a head-on collision and likely saving their lives. When Christine awoke from her coma, her first words were, “How’s Kelsey?” Thankfully, though Kelsey had suffered a broken hip the day of the accident, she was to live until the age of fifteen, dying just a few days after Christine finished school in 2005. 43 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM eJANUARY 2024
Photo by Madalyn Cox
HOW ONE DOG INSPIRED A MOVEMENT THAT BROUGHT GREYHOUND RACING TO AN END
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Facing terrible memory loss and physical disability, Christine realized she had to forego her TV dreams. But with these challenges came a new sense of purpose. She promised that if she should ever recover from her injuries and walk again, she would devote her life to helping dogs. She went on to become an animal activist and met fellow animal activist Carey Theil. Together, we founded GREY2K USA -- a non-profit organization battling to bring greyhound racing and its cruelties to an end. In 2008, we saw a photo of a spotted greyhound from Australia named Brooklyn with large, expressive brown eyes who had been kept for years in a dark, empty concrete cell at the Yat Yuen Canidrome in China is the worst greyhound racing track in the world.
Photo by Vadim Fomenok
Upon seeing a photo of Brooklyn, we fell instantly in love with him and decided we wanted to adopt him. It took almost 6 years of tireless advocacy work, but the love in our hearts, paired with the simple question, "Would Brooklyn and the thousands of other dogs in his predicament want us to
keep fighting?" kept us going through obstacles, setbacks, and failures. Over the course of 20 years, we led a coalition of ordinary dog lovers in fighting the multi-billion dollar greyhound racing gambling industry — and won. Together, we brought greyhound racing in the US to an end. In 2018, we achieved the closing of the Canidrome of Macau. Christine and Carey then airlifted over 500 surviving dogs to freedom, including Brooklyn, who came home to live with us.
Over the course of 20 years, we led a coalition of ordinary dog lovers in fighting the multibillion dollar greyhound racing gambling industry — and won.
Together, we brought greyhound racing in the US to an end.
After coming home, Brooklyn's health was poor, but we cherished every moment of the [3] short years he was with us. We nursed and cared for him, pouring the same energy we continue to pour into helping greyhounds everywhere into his care. Whether it's a dog, cat, bird, or any other companion animal, their stories have the power to inspire, mobilize, and bring about lasting change. Through the pure, unconditional love between humans andpets, we find our purpose and the strength to persevere.
Christine Dorchak and Carey Theil are the co-founders of GREY2K USA Worldwide. Christine, an attorney, specializes in pari-mutuel law and has successfully drafted laws prohibiting dog racing in several states and countries. She has been featured in national publications, including the Huffington Post, Forbes, and American Dog. A long-distance runner, she has competed in seven Boston Marathons. Carey has decades of legislative experience and has been quoted in hundreds of news articles about greyhound racing published across the globe. In his free time, Carey volunteers for various non-profit organizations and is a National Master in chess. Their book, Brooklyn Goes Home: The Rise and Fall of America.
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What is the
Difference Between Resilience &
posttraumatic growth? by Christy Gibson, MD,
T
rauma is on the tips of many tongues these days. It is one of the newer diagnoses within psychiatry, with PTSD only coming into prominence in the 1970s. When I studied genetics in undergraduate school, we had no idea that trauma could be passed through epigenetics and that we carry the burdens of our ancestors.
Even today, in 2023, complex trauma is yet to be listed in the DSM-5, the textbook on psychiatry, although more recently, it is a diagnostic code we can use. The problem is a lack of consensus on defining it. Not to mention how to treat it. Research is slow to emerge, the lack of academic definition being one of the factors, and there isn’t a medication I can prescribe as a physician that will constitute a cure. A lot of people are talking about building resilience as an antidote. The question is whether this is a skill set that can be taught or if there’s an inherent tendency that favors certain people. We are encountering so many collective tragedies: the progression of the climate emergency, wars starting on new fronts, ongoing harm to equity-deserving communities, and the pandemic that we pretend is over.
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But what exactly is resilience? Resilience is a return to normal or a baseline. From a psychological perspective, it means that we can handle most things coming our way. Dr. Dan Siegel calls this our “window of tolerance.” For most of us, this is our baseline level of functioning, of coping. When we demonstrate resilience, we come back to a psychological state of tolerance and acceptance. We can remain in a regulated and calm body. One psychological theory that I find helpful in explaining physiological resilience is Dr. Stephen Porges’ polyvagal theory. Rather than getting deeply into the neurophysiology behind it, to explain it very simply, the theory describes two responses to stress. One is extra energy, driven by our sympathetic nervous system, causing the part of us that wants to “fight or flight” (move away) from our problems. The second branch, when this first one is overwhelmed, involves our calm parasympathetic nervous system. When this is overactive, it causes a “freeze” (stuck) state. We experience a high-energy state with enhanced muscle tone, a pounding heart, and a racing mind. Sleepless nights, bursts of anger, and a feeling of restlessness are common. We experience the low-energy state as a lack of inertia, feeling unable to get out of bed or tackle the to-do list. We feel heavy and limp, sleepy all the time, and hopeless. In a calm body, we are able to encounter life challenges with clarity of mind and control over our body. While there may be stress, it’s something that we feel
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we can manage. We’re able to attend to the social cues of safety, like a person’s tone of voice and facial expression. Our thinking brain is available to us, which is not the case when we’re locked in a stress response. Our stress response is driven by the amygdala, a part of our brain very much like an alarm. These areas store associations with painful past memories to help us avoid danger in the future. Things like emotions, physical sensations, and the context of something uncomfortable – so anytime we encounter something similar, we might know to avoid it. These are experienced like triggers, or even flashbacks or nightmares. But, rather than blaming the brain for causing this discomfort, we should be thanking it for keeping us safe. An effective stress response is part of what keeps humans resilient. Resilience is important from both an individual and community perspective. We need to be able to find ways to recover from these traumas that we invariably face. But what if more is possible? That’s where posttraumatic growth comes in. When I teach my patients about resilience, I use a metaphor of a trauma or challenge, any stressful event, dunking you underwater. Before the event, you are floating around and managing with life. During the event, you can’t get your head above water, and you feel like you’re drowning. Every successive wave is oppressive and unmanageable. It’s a true physical and mental struggle
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After the event, resilience would be floating again. For some people, this might require flotation devices, whether it’s water wings or a flutterboard.
In a calm body, we are able to encounter life
challenges with clarity of mind and control over our body. While there may be stress, it’s something that we feel we can manage. We’re able to attend to the social cues of safety, like a person’s tone of voice and facial expression. Our thinking brain is available to us, which is not the case when we’re locked in a stress response.
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Practically speaking, this is when we are calling on our natural support system and other resources to help us float again. This could look like accessing therapy through formal health services. For many of us, we have built a life around coping strategies – things we might do in our daily routine like gratitude journaling, mindfulness or meditation, looking at or questioning our limiting beliefs. Even the food we put into our bodies affects our gut microbiome, our serotonin chemical levels, and the signals that get sent to the brain from our internal pathways (called “interoception”). Psychiatrist and nutritionist Dr. Uma Naidoo has researched the healthiest meals we could plan for excellent brain and nervous system health.
Physical movement matters, too. Dr. Bruce Perry speaks to the “rhythm of regulation” – by moving our bodies in repetitive patterns (think walking, dancing, swimming, or drumming), it regulates the rest of our system. Bilateral movement or even input (something that crosses the midline of our brain) is especially helpful – I will encourage my patients to try “binaural” music or sound. Some of my favorite therapies involve brushing across the opposite side of the body (Havening Techniques) or tapping the opposite side in a self-acupressure sequence (Emotional Freedom Techniques). These are some of the first things I will teach people – they help you dial down strong emotions to self-regulate the nervous system reflexes. And they are ancient ways that the body has always known how to self-heal. We can add a lot of therapeutic foundations to our lives in simple yet effective ways. It all starts with self-compassion. The legacy of trauma is a shame; shining a light in our dark shadows helps us see what really happened with more clarity. It was never our fault. We did not deserve to be hurt. Learning that our brains create the stress response – both the nervous system states and also our core beliefs (like the world can hurt us or that we don’t feel good enough) based on our past history. It’s incredible how our brains can change – we call this rewiring “neuroplasticity.” For the events we go through, we rewire towards a sense of physical safety. For the relationships that harm us, we rewire towards psychological safety. Working through the trauma that shapes us can be a powerful step in personal transformation. This
is posttraumatic growth, when we reach a stage that we could not have conceived of if we hadn’t gone through these major challenges. It’s not like we choose to go through the pain, but the changes have catalyzed a new way of being. Learnings and strategies that make future stress easier to manage. Ways of relating to ourselves that can help in relationships – often becoming more empathic to the pain of others. All of these changes can feel like “leveling up.” Reaching a new understanding about oneself and the world. I honestly believe it’s a part of how humans evolve. We are designed to be adaptive. Recovering from trauma, learning how to invoke our natural healing potential, and creating new epigenetic changes are some ways that we can create these shifts for future generations. Think of how resilient our ancestors had to be to survive. Some of them crossed the prairies in covered wagons and turned forests into farms. Others arrived as slaves and underwent brutal trauma. Many people still arrive as refugees or undocumented citizens, hoping for a better life for their children. Many equity-deserving communities still face systemic trauma. Overcoming the simple act of survival is resilient. Anything beyond that transforms our collective future. Recovery from trauma is an evolutionary act, one where we all have capacity. Building safety into our daily routines, creating our self-healing toolkit, and enhancing our community supports is one of the most important things we can do on this human journey.
Dr. Christine Gibson is a family physician, trauma therapist, and author of The Modern Trauma Toolkit (with Hachette Go). She’s also on social media as TikTok TraumaDoc with >130k followers on TikTok. She has a Masters in medical education and is halfway through a doctorate and has been involved in academics and education - creating Calgary’s fellowship in Health Equity. She runs an international non-profit Global Familymed Foundation, a cooperative, and a new company to train professionals how to manage workplace trauma - Safer Spaces Training.
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Tatyana Vlachos is the IQMWELLNESS center owner and the energy healer. The Wellness center main focus is to detox body from heavy metals, mold, parasites, viruses and the other toxins. They use cutting edge technology to help with detoxing the body and have great results! Eesystem is one of them, which creates amplified energy field. Using scalar wave technology, this vortex generates multiple bio-active life enhancing frequencies. The other technologies are Ozone saunas Hocatt, BeamRay- plasma light RIFE machine, biofeedback scans, High intensity ultrasound machine Cellsonic, Lifestream radiant energy generator.
805-405-2790 3625 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Building A, Suite 188, Thousand Oaks, California, 91362 52 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COMe JANUARY 2024
iqmwellness.com
Issuu.com
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Book Review by Susanna Schroadter
Since 1999, Mark Silver has worked with heart-centered entrepreneurs to help them realize that every business act can be an act of love. One of the pioneers in integrating real spirituality with the nitty-gritty of small business, Mark founded Heart of Business, Inc. in 2001. As a designated Master Teacher within his Sufi lineage and a coach, teacher, and spiritual healer, he has facilitated thousands of individual sessions with entrepreneurs. He has led hundreds of classes, seminars, groups, and retreats. Thousands of people around the globe follow his weekly writings and teachings. A fourth-generation entrepreneur, before Heart of Business, Mark ran a distribution business, turned around a struggling non-profit magazine, and worked as a paramedic in Oakland, CA. He is the author of 7 books, including his latest, Heart-Centered Business: Healing from Toxic Business Culture so Your Small Business Can Thrive.
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This book is the public’s look into his teachings. Through the writing, which is done in a very accessible yet informative style, Silver guides the reader to run their business in an ethical and heart-centered manner. He notes many people attempt to start a business with financial gain as their primary motivation and then find themselves burned out, empty, and unsuccessful within years, if not months. Throughout the book, specific meditations, exercises, and examples are offered to demonstrate how you can create a business that can sustain you spiritually, emotionally, and financially and, therefore, create a life worth living. Silver is inspirational to the reader as he begins by discussing how to heal your relationship with business and money, develop a business model, and then discuss how to market your business in both an ethical and heart-centered manner. Once the basics are set, he discusses the five heart qualities most successful business owners possess and the practical necessities for business development. He concludes with how to create a life worth living as well as a business worth sustaining. With a mixture of the practical and spiritual, Silver’s overall message is that a successful business fulfills you as you live in alignment with yourself and others. This is a beautifully written text for those wanting to create a business that allows you to feel as though you are living your purpose and providing for yourself and your family.
With all the harm in the world,
your heart-centered business is so important.
It can be an important piece of the tapestry of healing we’re all thirsting for.
HEART CENTERED BUSINESS, written by Mark Silver, discusses how to heal from a toxic business culture so your small business can thrive.
After meeting his wife in 1994, Silver began to learn about the spiritual side of life and how living a heart-centered existence can recharge your soul. Soon after, he began to learn about Sufi spiritual healing. In 2001, Silver and his wife, Holly Glaser, created Heart of Business to help mentor entrepreneurs in running their businesses with love, integrity, and ethics.
Photo by Ioann Mark
He has multiple decades of experience in social activism and business culture.
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FLOURISH
BECAUSE by Kay Whitaker
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"Life is full of twists and turns, tears, and craziness. We've learned, thanks to the grace of God, how to do this thing called 'LIFE.' Just keep flourishing in whatever comes your way because He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life!"
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Y
ou might wonder why I wrote this book. I had friends who said, "Kay, you should write a book about your life; it's been a crazy one." I said, "Nobody wants to hear about me. I don't know how to write a book." All excuses; I did not want to do it. But God sent an angel, a friend, and he said,"God wants you to write a book and he will help you." I started crying. I cried a lot for a while, and then I jumped in feet first. My story might be a story of someone just like you or someone you know going through similar situations. It is a story of dashed hopes, faith restored, dreams fulfilled, and ultimately, what became my quest for truth. My husband, ML, says my life has been like a roller coaster ride. The highs are high, but the lows have been low, low. I was born in Fort Worth, Texas, the oldest of three children, born to warm and loving parents. My father's career required us to move a lot, and we lived in Amarillo, Texas; Calgary, Canada; Jackson, Mississippi; and finally settled in Houston, Texas. Moving continuously gave me resilience and the ability to make friends easily. My relationship with the Lord started early, and I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior at the age of ten while living in Calgary. I went to high school in Hous-
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ton, where I was on the drill team, a cheerleader, and homecoming queen. My boyfriend was a star on the football team, and life was good. I loved high school. Following high school, I attended college at TCU (Texas Christian University) in Fort Worth, Texas, graduating in 1974 with a home economics degree. God was a big part of my life, and I thought I was destined to marry a preacher. This was the time of the Jesus movement and the free love moment. My faith was strong, AND I was still a virgin. While at TCU, I met and married my first husband, Steve, a seminary student who went on to become a youth pastor. Everything was going great, but when I got pregnant, things started to change. He became distant and did not want anything to do with me or, later, our newborn daughter, Christy. Things got crazy and out of control. He even tried to abduct her. There were bisexual overtones, something that was not discussed back then. I eventually left, taking Christy with me, and moved in with my parents. My mom and dad's steadfast love and acceptance never wavered. I divorced Steve within the year and was devastated. This was not how my Christian life and my Christian marriage were supposed to be. I turned to God and the Bible for answers and assurance.
I met and fell in love with husband number two, John, the group music leader at the church I was attending in Houston while still living with my parents. We soon married, and he adopted Christy. Out of nowhere, he suddenly became coercive and controlling towards me. His narcissism only got worse. He wanted me to be obedient, at home and pregnant. He started treating Christy like the proverbial stepchild. All the while, we we're going to church on a regular basis, masquerading as the perfect family.
Life is full of twists and turns. Our choices and responses to the circumstances that come and go in our lives determine our level of satisfaction.
Through lots of counseling and attending Al-Anon, I started to fight back against the verbal and emotional abuse and his dry, drunk behavior. John's response was to have an affair. I divorced him after sixteen years of marriage and three beautiful children: Lisa, Johnny, and James. John eventually died in federal prison for Ponzi schemes. Go figure. With a new lease on life, I went back to school to become a registered nurse (RN), and I put God on the back burner. Now, I was juggling work, raising four kids, and looking for some fun. I started going to country and western bars with a girlfriend. We loved to dance. One night, I met husband number three, Duyane, who swept me off the dance floor. We had several years of fun: traveling, playing golf, and going to Dallas Cowboys games. My family liked him. But he had an eye for the ladies, and they for him. He had an affair with a girl from work twenty
years younger than me. It broke my heart. He was sorry BUT only that he got caught. Divorced for the third time, I continued to gravitate towards abusive, cheating men. How was this happening? Why me? I knew God was there for me even though I had tried to do it my way. I trusted God and would never turn my back on him again. Apostle Paul in the Bible said, 'Forget the things that are behind you, press on.' I could not change any of those marriages. I could learn from the past, but I was not bound by things I had done. I could change my next decisions. And I did. It was around this time my youngest son, James, started to have some troubles at school. I thought it was due to being a rebellious teen, my being a working mom and yet another divorce. I also thought it might be drugs. I missed the first warning signs of major trouble: mental illness. I had no idea at the time. But how would I? Mental illness never occurred to me. At this point, I turned all my attention to James and my other three children and did not think about dating for two years. Fast-forward. I learned about Match.com, a leader in online dating, where the love of my life, ML, FOUND ME! He was different from the others. He was and remains a great listener who loved and accepted my damaged heart. Always there for me. We played golf together, went to church together, and he was my rock when James started acting suicidal. I could not talk to God enough.
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James' first suicidal attempt was in Nashville, TN, when he was staying with a cousin. I got him back to Texas, but it was not easy with an egotistical psychiatric doctor. He would not even let me see James for a week. A little more about James. He was a sweet, funny kid. People gravitated to him. He was a highly creative and self-taught musician. He was playing his keyboard for small change on street corners in Ft Worth, TX, when he got hired as a full-time piano man at Pete's Dueling Piano bar (a popular place at the time). They loved him; he seemed happy; I thought his mental issues had subsided. He even had a girlfriend who was crazy about him. Eight months later, he was on top of a billboard in Ft Worth, naked, threatening to jump to his death. ML and I, my kids, and their spouses arrived and we all prayed for God to get him down safely. It started raining, threatening clouds upon us, and James finally came down. Prayers answered. It became a big local news story. James was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. We were told, usually, this doesn't end well. We did not believe it. God had brought him down off that billboard; James was going to be ok. After 90 days in local and state psychiatric hospitals, then several months in a halfway house with others recovering from varied issues, James seemed to be getting better. But then, one night, something triggered deep down inside him, and he succumbed, stabbing himself in the heart multiple times. Rushed to the hospital, he died on the operating table. ML said he had never heard a woman wail before and never wanted to again. That was me wailing as I got
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the call from my youngest daughter, Lisa, telling me James was gone. My faith and my family's faith were the only things that allowed us to get through this horrific tragedy. My faith is what allowed me to 'flourish' through all the ups and downs in life. All the why me, and what could I have done better. I flourished because my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ loves me more than anyone, softens my heart, and strengthens my soul. I flourish because ML and I have been happily married for seventeen years now with our blended family of five children and nine grandchildren. Looking back, I recognize that repeated mistakes and choices with tragic circumstances are what led me to a place where I ultimately learned it is God who leads, and it was my choice to follow. I learned how not to be overrun by dysfunctional people who came into my life. I learned to say "no". I learned to overcome and flourish in life when all else tells me to settle and wallow in failure. Life is full of twists and turns. Our choices and responses to the circumstances that come and go in our lives determine our level of satisfaction. When it is all said and done, what is left is YOU. What are your choices? Are you going to keep treading in the same circle with no relief, or are you going to say, "Yes, I want to start 'flourishing' in life"? I want everyone to know you can flourish because the Lord is there for you, ready to help. Flourish Because God loves you and will guide you through the valley of the shadow of naivete, mistakes, danger, pain, and the unknown. God will strengthen your faith and draw you closer to him. All you need to do is listen and follow. I flourish today because of my God. God is good.
Kay Whitaker was born in Fort Worth, Texas. She is a fifth-generation native Texan. Kay graduated from Texas Christian University in 1974. Growing up she lived in several different locations due to her father’s occupation. Becoming a Christian at an early age, she depended on her faith to see her through many times of adversity. She worked as a teacher, and then later in life became a Registered Nurse - her dream job. She has been retired for 14 years, and recently felt the call and challenge from the Lord to share her story. Her website is: https://flourishbecause.com/
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WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT
Emilie
Reiki Teacher and Mindfulness Mentor
Macas
Emotionally neglected, abused, and later abandoned by her manipulative father, Emilie is haunted by her traumatic past well into her adult life. A series of heartbreaking betrayals caused Emilie to sink further into despair, but her inner fire never surrendered. When she is diagnosed with a severe autoimmune disease, it's in this darkest moment that Emilie makes a crucial decision that alters the course of her entire life. Intense, emotional, breathtaking, but unbelievably uplifting, The Naked Truth of a Healer is a nonfiction narrative about trauma, emotional pain, inconceivable betrayals, grief, forgiveness, and the unbreakable search for inner truth. Through the lens of a holistic professional, Emilie explains how unmet childhood needs bleed into adulthood, the powerful connection between our
body, mind, heart, and spirit, and the odyssey toward selflove and self-worth. Part One shares her journey, with Part Two providing a road map to help her readers find their path to healing. From the power of meditation, Emilie's raw and vulnerable truth provides an inspirational and empowering message on the unstoppable power of love and the magnificent gift of our inner pharmacy. The Naked Truth of a Healer opens the conversation on the stigma surrounding mental health, the signs of malpractice in the spiritual realm, and the importance of our spiritual authority in our healing journeys. She drives the message home that we are the special ingredient in our lives with the unmeasurable ability to change the narrative of our stories.
Is Emotional Trauma Holding You Back? Toronto Woman hopes to inspire others to go on a Healing Journey by sharing her story
by Rachel M. Anderson
I
f you were to fall down and break your arm, you wouldn't try to heal it yourself. Conscious of the pain, you'd go to a doctor who is specially trained in orthopedics. But what if the pain was stuck in your subconscious? What would you do then? "With emotional distress/ trauma, people sometimes are not even aware of how it affects them. They don't take action until something drastic happens in their lives or they start connecting with themselves," said Émilie Macas of Toronto, Canada. Macas knows this firsthand. She stayed silent about the abuse she endured as a child for a long time, finally confronting it after being diagnosed with a severe autoimmune disease. She had reached the point in her life where she came to the realization that trauma stuck in her body was to blame for her physical ailment. "We focus so much on how to be healthy through diet and fitness, but can we experience sustainable health without emotional and mental fitness? I don't think so. The wounds of our past are
the aching pain of our present," said Macas, who, after making that discovery, traveled a journey of discovery that led to healing and a new career. Today, she helps others heal from their own emotional trauma through her work as a Jay Shetty Certified Life Coach, a mental health and wellness advocate, an integrative Reiki teacher, a Chopra Meditation teacher, a mindfulness educator, a public speaker, and now an author. Her new book, The Naked Truth of a Healer: The Path to My Authentic Self, was released in May 2022. In it, Macas shares her story and how she came to make it her mission in life to help others trapped by their own trauma. The Naked Truth of a Healer: The Path to My Authentic Self is divided into two sections. In Part One, Macas shares her personal story. Emotionally neglected, abused, and later abandoned by her manipulative father, Macas says she was haunted by her traumatic past well into her adult life. In the book, readers learn about the series of heartbreaking betrayals that caused Macas to sink further into despair and that her inner fire never surrendered.
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From the power of meditation, Emilie's raw and vulnerable truth provides an inspirational and empowering message on the unstoppable power of love and the magnificent gift of our inner pharmacy.
In part two, she shares details about the tools she accessed to help her heal and provides a roadmap that can help her readers connect with themselves on a deeper level and find their own path to healing. "So many people bury their emotional stress and think it is in the past and gone, but it is there and will show up over and over again until it is released and healed. My book can help people understand what the bodymind-soul connection really means through the practical tools and the road map I offer," said Macas, who added that writing the book was very therapeutic for her. "What sets me apart," she said, "is I'm not only talking about what I discovered about the connection between mind, body, and spirit and taking a holistic approach to healing, but I lived through it. It's not
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philosophy. It's experiential." Macas says she envisioned her book when she was 7 years old. "I told my grade one teacher that I would write a book about my story one day, and it would help a lot of people. I believe it was written in my soul. I just needed to go through the experiences," she said. The Naked Truth of a Healer: The Path to My Authentic Self is available in paperback and eBook formats from both Amazon and Barnes and Noble. The author herself released an audiobook version on Amazon's Audible in October, which was Emotional Intelligence Awareness Month. This is a time set aside each year to increase public awareness and understanding of emotional intelligence and how it works. To connect with Émilie Macas, visit her website: Emiliemacas.ca
Émilie Macas is a Certified Life Coach through the Jay Shetty accredited school. She is also an integrative Reiki teacher with a particular focus on emotional healing, as she holds a trauma counseling certification. She is also a Chopra Meditation teacher, a mindfulness educator, an author, a public speaker, and a mental health and wellness advocate. Émilie Macas has worked for decades treating some of society's most vulnerable, attending to children and people struggling with burnout, stress, and lack of general well-being. Émilie teaches self-care, alignment, and healing through embracing vulnerability, adopting a spirit of raw truthfulness, releasing fears, and accepting things that cannot be changed. Through honest introspection and dedication, she helps people find their way back to their genuine passion, vitality, and joie de vivre. Her first published book is The Naked Truth of a Healer: The Path to My Authentic Self.
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Welcome to our Contributor Writers ' neighborhood 67 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
Through the Lens of Love By Susanna Schroadter
The Search for Innner Peace
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W
e all want to experience joy, happiness, and fulfillment. Yet, it's not uncommon to feel lost, overwhelmed, and disconnected from ourselves. We have stories that fill our minds with negative thoughts, leading to self-doubt, fear, anxiety, and depression. It's no wonder that we often seek external validation and distractions to numb our pain or escape reality. But the truth is, we cannot rely on others to fill the void within us. We need to learn how to cultivate inner peace and self-love, no matter the challenges. 1. Cultivate self-awareness Self-awareness, the capacity to understand and monitor our internal world, including our thoughts, emotions, values, and motivations, is the first step towards inner peace. This is not about changing who we are but rather understanding the authentic nature of our soul. One tool to achieve this is through mindfulness meditation. This involves paying attention to the present moment, focusing on your breath, and calmly observing your thoughts and feelings without judgment. With practice, meditation can help you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions and identify any limiting beliefs or negative self-talk. Another way to cultivate self-awareness is journaling, which can help you reflect on your experiences, emotions, and thoughts. By putting your thoughts and feelings on paper, you can develop a deeper understanding
of yourself and your emotions. This process can help you become more aware of your thoughts and allow you to make more intentional choices that align with your values and goals. Identifying your values can also help you develop self-awareness. Living in alignment with our values can bring meaning and purpose to our lives. Take some time to identify what matters most to you, what makes you happy, and what you want to achieve in life. Use your values as a guidepost when making decisions, and be conscious of when your actions and behaviors may be out of alignment with your values. By living in alignment with our values, we can experience greater fulfillment and happiness. 2. Practice self-compassion Self-love can be a difficult concept to grasp. We often think of it as doing that which feels good at the moment, but in reality, self-love goes much deeper than that. It's about treating ourselves with kindness and empathy, especially when we're feeling down or overwhelmed. The key to cultivating self-love is through self-compassion and becoming aware of how we talk with ourselves. First, speak to yourself as you would to a friend. Imagine your best friend was going through a tough time – what would you say to them? Apply this same kindness and understanding to yourself. Whenever you feel overwhelmed or upset, practice speaking to yourself in a gentle, supportive voice. By doing this, you'll start to rewire your brain and develop a more positive relationship with yourself.
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It is important to note that self-compassion is not a onetime thing. It requires consistent effort and practice. You won't wake up one day and suddenly be a pro at self-compassion. It's a process that takes time and patience. So, be gentle with yourself as you navigate this journey. Recognize that there will be setbacks and challenges, but as long as you're making an effort to be kind to yourself, you're on the right track. Self-love is more than the occasional bubble bath or massage. It's about treating ourselves with empathy and kindness, even when we're at our lowest. By practicing self-compassion, we're able to build resilience, develop a positive relationship with ourselves, and recognize our own worth. Remember, this is a journey that takes time and patience. Be gentle with yourself and know that ev-
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ery effort you make towards practicing self-compassion is a step towards cultivating true self-love. 3. Set healthy boundaries We live in a society that constantly demands our attention and energy. It can be difficult to carve out time for ourselves and prioritize our needs. As a result, we often find ourselves feeling drained, overwhelmed, and disconnected from our inner selves. One of the most important skills to cultivate inner peace and self-love is the art of saying "no" and setting boundaries, which can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life. Learning to say "no" is akin to creating a protective shield that shields your energy from being drained by others. When we say "yes" to everything, we risk burning out and neglecting our self-care needs. Setting boundaries means being selective about how and where we spend our energy and time. Saying "no" also helps us respect our values and beliefs. If someone asks you to do something that goes against your values or makes you feel uncomfortable, it's important to set a boundary and say "no ."Valuing our beliefs also means valuing our self-worth, and saying "no" can help us develop a stronger sense of self.
Photo by Jakayla Toney
Second, it's important to acknowledge your strengths and achievements. Many of us are quick to dismiss our accomplishments or downplay them as insignificant. However, by doing so, we're harming our own self-worth. Take a moment to reflect on your recent achievements. Acknowledge these wins and give yourself credit. By doing this, you'll start to recognize your own worth and realize that your capacity you have to be limitless.
Healthy relationships are built on a foundation of mutual respect and consideration for each other's needs. Setting boundaries ensures that we are clear about our expectations and that we hold ourselves and others accountable. Healthy relationships should never make us feel guilty or ashamed, and saying "no" is a powerful tool to ensure that we maintain our boundaries. Finding inner peace and self-love is not a destination but a continuous journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. It's about making a conscious choice to prioritize your mental, emotional, and physical well-being and developing a deeper connection with your true self. Remember, you are worthy of love, acceptance, and happiness, and you have the power within you to create the life you desire. By cultivating self-awareness, practicing self-compassion, setting healthy boundaries, choosing self-growth, and seeking support, you can start your journey toward inner peace and self-love today. One of the most important aspects of setting boundaries is prioritizing our selfcare rituals. This can include taking breaks when we need
them, practicing self-care activities, and avoiding activities that make us feel stressed or anxious. By saying "no" to activities that do not support our well-being, we prioritize our health and create space for more fulfilling experiences in our lives. Learning to say "no" can be challenging, especially if we have a habit of putting others' needs ahead of our own. However, by setting boundaries and prioritizing our needs, we build a sense of inner peace and self-love. When we respect ourselves, we attract others who will respect and value us as well. By cultivating this inner peace and self-love, we open ourselves up to a more fulfilling and satisfying life. Learning to say "no" and setting boundaries is crucial for cultivating inner peace and self-love. By protecting our energy, respecting our values, maintaining healthy relationships, prioritizing self-care, and building inner peace, we create a more fulfilling and balanced life. Saying "no" may not always be easy, but it is a powerful tool for creating the life we deserve. We deserve to prioritize our needs and create boundaries that serve our well-being.
Susanna Schroadter, once a practicing attorney and mediator, has has turned her focus to creating Sage, a safe sanctuary to allow others to heal. She offers consulting and strategy for those going into mediation or dealing with life altering events so that they may be empowered and advocate for themselves. Once those events have occurred, she also offers different modalities for healing such as life and spiritual guidance and energy work. www.sanctuaryforpeace.com
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Spiritual Growth Checkpoint:
By Sherri Cortland, ND
Start
2024
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WITH MESSAGES FROM YOUR GUIDES
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If you are a regular reader of this column, you know that I am a continual promoter of direct communication with Spirit, and the start of a new year seems like the perfect time for a heart-to-heart about this important subject. I can’t think of a better New Year’s Resolution or affirmation to make that will help us move forward Spiritually.
tation with Intent will help us understand the message AND allow us to have meaningful dialogue with Spirit.
It is my Intent that this column will help you get moving!
Consider that wish granted because Spirit speaks to us every day of our lives. To hear what’s being said to us, all we have to do is the following: • be quiet; • listen; and • Of course, the most difficult challenge of all is to trust what we hear.
Some background… The more we pay attention to what’s happening around us, the more we will see and hear messages from Spirit. For example, when you get a feeling to turn left when you are planning to turn right, that’s a message from Spirit. When you hear the same song over and over, or you see the same number over and over, or you always look at the clock at the same time each day, these occurrences are messages from your Guides, Angels, and sometimes your Higher Self. We call these experiences synchronicity. Bottom line—when these things occur, they are messages from Spirit. Being aware of what’s going on around us and recognizing messages that come to us in songs, numbers, and synchronicity is important—and a very big deal— yet these messages are also one-sided communications. What I mean is that we can recognize we’re hearing “Last Train to Clarksville” for the 10th time this week, but what exactly is the message? If you have conversations directly with Spirit, you can always ask, “Hey, I heard this Monkees’ song ten times already, but I’m still not getting it. What’s the message here?” Medi-
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Chatting with Spirit via Meditation… How often do we say or think, “I wish Spirit would speak to me”?
Every time we have a gut feeling about something, that’s our Spirit speaking to us, guiding us on the road to spiritual development and better decisions—just like a GPS guides us when we need driving directions. Becoming aware of our gut feelings is a great way to start listening to Spirit, and more importantly, paying attention to what our gut tells us goes a long way towards expediting our spiritual growth.
Direct
your meditation session to meet or communicate with your Higher Self,
one of your Guides, your own
guardian angel, or even Archangel Michael or Raphael.
I believe that meditation is the best way to listen to what our Spirit is communicating to us, and with practice, we get better and better at learning to sit quietly and clearly hear what our gut is saying to us. The more practiced we become at listening, the more likely we are to pay attention to that little voice within as it directs us to make the choices that are better for us in the long run. Therefore, meditation not only allows us to commune and communicate with the Spirit, it also improves our quality of life and expedites our spiritual growth—even if we only meditate for a few minutes a day. 3 Things to Think About as you begin to meditate with Intent… Set the intention. When we sit down to meditate, we announce to the universe, either verbally or mentally, that it is our INTENT to meet and receive a message from (fill in the blank) during our session. Tap into your inner power. Direct your meditation session to meet or communicate with your Higher Self, one of your Guides, your own guardian angel, or even Archangel Michael or Raphael. Allow yourself to receive. Clear your mind, breathe, relax, and allow yourselves to be fully in the moment and at one with your INTENT for the meditation session. Basic Meditation Instructions… •
Pick a time of day when you can sit in undisturbed silence for at least 15-20 minutes; try to meditate at the same time each day. Sit upright in a comfortable chair or lie on the floor or the couch; do whatever feels comfortable to you.
•
Close your eyes and start to clear your mind. As thoughts come in, don’t worry about it; just recognize them and send them away. You can think about those things later!
•
If you want to initiate communication with a specific entity, state your Intent: i.e., “During this session, I intend to speak with my Higher Self,” or “During this session, I intend to meet my Guide.” Sit quietly for 15-20 minutes, breathe and listen.
•
As you receive messages, ask for clarification or ask questions if you have them.
•
When you’re finished meditating, thank the entity you’ve been chatting with, and remember to blow out candles and incense if you used them.
How to Meditate with Intent… •
To receive messages from the Spirit during meditation, use Intent to direct your session.
•
As you sit down, verbally or mentally state your Intent for the session: if you want to communicate with your higher self, guides, or an angel, say so clearly. Then breathe, clear your mind, and listen.
•
If you receive a message for which you need clarification, ask for it.
•
Keep a journal of your messages for future reference.
Sherri Cortland has been communicating with her Guide Group, the “GG,” since 1987 via automatic writing. Much of the information she has received is included in her four books, which were originally published by Ozark Mountain Publishing and are currently available on her website and on Amazon. On Sherri’s website, you will find several free classes and meditations, along with more articles and workshops on video. https://www.facebook.com/Sherri CortlandAuthor www.Sherri-Cortland.com
Next month, we’ll talk more about meditation, along with some important reminders about what meditation will do for us. Happy New Year and Namaste!
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By Zee
WHAT
YOU
DON'T
WANT
Photo by AdobeStock
TO HEAR 76 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
I
n this modern era of human development and assumed understandings, it appears trauma has taken center stage. Doesn't anyone find this strange? Ever since the first humans took their first breath, physical traumas have been with us, and no one has been excluded. This move to a social, emotional, and intellectual development of nonacceptance, which on the surface may seem positive, could just be another band-aid setback, with our usual long-standing evolving sideways direction, under the banner of the progressive ideology of how humans heal. When we observe the various, in-your-face global situations, it's hard not to notice the dramatic upheavals happening in every conceivable direction of the country, human thinking, and nature. Is there a correlation between these three major factions? Does our innate awareness believe this is just some frivolous coincidence? Firstly, think, if believing there may be some connection, this could well be to our distinct advantage. Unlike those continuing debates that have left us in the dark in the past, we are close to a cure, and now it's too late. IF IT IS HAPPENING IT IS MEANT TO BE. HOW MANY TIMES HAS THIS SAYING SCREWED US OVER So, what is this coloration that has left many humans unable to think for themselves? Left humans stuck in emotional turmoil and behaviors not fitting for a socalled evolved species. It's time our learned members of this planet band together and investigate why humans respond physically and emotionally when Mother Nature and the planet have an upset stomach. Could it be that our mood swings are in tune with the mood swings of this planet, and if this is a proven fact, have we been so engrossed in justifying a cause or someone to blame? If so, we have taught ourselves over generations to live blind? This leads us to a much bigger question. Is it possible that humans act out, respond, fight or fight, defend, and deny because of personal character traits that we are totally unaware of? Thanks to a mindset that speaks, I already know through personal experiences that I am stuck with those memories to prove who and what I blame. IS THE PAST DEAD One thing our egoic mindset has deeply engraved in our beingness is how to conjure up a "bandaid" reason when acting out a successful denial of responsibility. We have become so well trained that we now believe anything under the false banner of the need to survive. 77 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
Excuses run rampant for why we are in such a mess. The uncontrollable self-talk reasonings to face one's life head-on through one's anxiety, anger, and depression are enormously overpowering. Hence, there is nothing like a good survey to give us the percentage facts of suicide, depression, loneliness, divorce, and lack of happiness to keep us bound as casualties to our modern-day living. The best one of them all is, as usual, delivered by our gracious leaders. We are constantly told that it's always our own fault, we need to fix the problems, and we need their help. Who was it that got us here? We have come to an unfortunate situation today; life is not about investigation; it's about belonging to a like-minded community. Now, there is a new definition for "not thinking." ARE ANCIENT WISDOM DEAD Look about you, what do you notice? What is it that you do, which is the common denominator, allowing you and the external world to keep turning? It is because everything that exists has a "structure" to maintain its existence. A foundation that will stand and deliver, overcome every conceivable obstacle during one's journey between birth and passing over. Have you ever heard that everything is connected? Wait a minute, are you suggesting this could be a real fact? EVERYTHING? It's possible you know better, but for now, let us examine the makeup of one's character and the possibility there is more involved in accessing a greater meaning in living a life. Firstly, are we a stranger 78 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
to others? Better yet, are we a stranger to ourselves? A quick quiz to get the mind engaged. How many seasons in a year? Let's see how you did. Answer regards to the planet "4", as a proud consumer "52". Whose life are we living? A character example might go something like this. A person has the character trait of being very fiery and has a fierce side, yet lacks self-confidence. What do you suppose their response will be, the very first time and thereafter when confronted and confused on how to process this experience? And who or what is doing the processing? Obviously, they will lash out, and their character training has begun, and an identity is born. Now, thirty years later, the response is the same. Combined with their validated reasonings, they made me do it; it wasn't my fault, I had no other choice, and so on. WHO, OR WHAT, TRAINS ONE'S MINDSET Does this affect and create one's life, relationship, awareness, career, and so on? Did they ever have a choice? And if this is their character makeup, were they educated in how to respond? Did we, as model citizens, judge them via our experiences, gossip, or prejudices, then look the other way through our process of positive judgmental reasoning? We have all had similar experiences when we responded to a situation and misjudged their intention. Here is the added kicker: they are always to blame for our response so we can feel good about ourselves. rauma is a living memory of what someone, a relationship, or an institution has done to us, and it stays within us as a living
Tlanguage of response; so much for the past is just that. The past is no longer with us. Really! Experiences do not make us who we are. Experiences are the secondary factors that the mind mistakes as the cause of our lack of success, unworthiness, failures, fears, and the endless reasons why one's life is great or not so great. This misunderstanding and lack of our unknown character traits are the primary foundation of every resulting life-engaged, concluding experience. Blame the experience and remain. One cannot but wonder as we walk through the market of organics, elixirs, symbols, therapies, colors, and adornments to manifest transformation. When we look and listen to the vendor or convention speaker, one can see another mirrored self in time. Where to now is the missing piece. How do we travel across the body-soul barrier to function happily here in this "self-imposed" existence? If having experiences is the end goal to living a life fulfilled in health, wealth, happiness, and wonder, instead of anxiety, stress, and trauma, it must be time to ask why, after having the last fifty thousand plus life experiences, where is this happiness hiding? Staying with character traits, does every person respond to anxiety the same way? Neuroscience tells us that within the 8.1 billion humans alive today, every single human brain is different. Wow, thank you, neuroscience. And yet, all understandings of human health and behavior are still treated from a restrictive generalized perspective. Talk about two perspectives being miles apart. Isn't something terribly lacking in how we perceive this human creature? Every solution today is a creative evolu-
tion of a preexisting process, and still, the negatives outgrow the positives. Tomorrow doesn't look so promising if humanity identifies and functions collectively through their needs, wants, and desires. On the surface, traumas are real in one's mindset, and therapies may appear positive, but if we treat every isolated experience, how many lifetimes are there before completion? If our brains are different, then we are uniquely different from every other human in our response. What can we learn from this? As an individual, we function and process life in our own unique way. Not as some generalized unified collective, and yet, this is how we expect permanent healing to occur. As the chaos progresses around the world, you and only you as a unique individual will overcome all challenges when you know your natural, unique qualities and skills. Why is this extremely important? Character self-awareness INFORMS US OF OUR STORY before we engage in any experience. This is how we choose our actions in response to any given situation. The other option is to read a book, and it will tell you and millions of other readers the same: how and what to do. Love the collective. Tomorrow's healings will develop from going beyond knowledge, understanding, and wisdom to new levels of "everything is connected" in a combined partnership that already exists for each individual human, with the one-living-conscious. Lost we are not, begin with our human essence; it is the primary character of self in this physical environment. That which is our greater self beyond all ideas, for now, remains unknown.
Staying with character traits, does every person respond to anxiety the same way? Neuroscience tells us that within the 8.1 billion humans alive today, every single human brain is different. 79 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
A Guide to High Vibrational Living By Polly Wirum
Is There
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C
hances are you have lost a loved one, including pets, that you often think about. Many people want reassurance that those they miss are not suffering. Some people find comfort in the idea of life after death; other people struggle to find truth in the possibility of any existence beyond the here and now. This blog is written to offer peace and possibly even answers to anyone who has ever grieved the death of someone important to them. Always Watching Recently, I had to hop on a plane to check in with my mother. She is in her mid-eighties and has had a few health challenges. The flight was just a couple of hours, but I decided to fly first class. I like having the space to work, read, or sleep, but I rarely speak to those sitting near me. When I found my seat, the person beside me struggled with her carry-on. I greeted her as I squeezed by to my seat. When Lila finally sat next to me, she
initiated a brief conversation, sharing that she was traveling alone. Lila had recently lost her partner. Her next comment grabbed my attention. She was looking for a medium to help her connect with her deceased partner. This comment was completely unprovoked and unexpected. I work as a psychic medium and life coach. This is not the first time that a person randomly turns up in my life, grieving and seeking. I know that those on the other side can bring people together to help their loved ones on this side find peace. What made this situation so funny was all the changes that took place for Lila to sit next to me on Alaska Airlines. First off, Lila only flies Alaska Airlines because that is where she met her partner. She had originally made a reservation for a different flight and, at the last minute, decided to change her flight to the one we shared. On top of that, she was assigned a different seat and was upgraded to first class the morning of our flight.
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Music is another way those on the other side connect with you. When you randomly hear a song that you previously enjoyed together, chances are they are orchestrating this connection.
I was able to share messages from Lila’s partner. He showed me how much he liked baseball games and drank a lot of soda. I could taste it! He likes things to be orderly and neat, especially a well-made bed. I was shown the color of the hospital gown he wore and the window in his room the day they received his diagnosis. He mostly wanted Lila to know he was always watching over her and loved her. This experience was not planned by me, but I have learned to expect the unexpected when my spirit has evolved. I was grateful to help Lila find a connection with her partner. It brought her much relief, peace, and joy to know that her partner was still in her life. How Does It Work? I actually have no idea how those on the other side are able to send us messages. I do know that I know the craziest details about someone that would be impossible for me to know. An example of this is from a recent event I took part in. A young woman came through and shared many messages, but
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it was not until she showed me a particular shirt with two different sleeve lengths that the person was convinced it was her sister coming through. They used to fight over that shirt when they were teenagers. My greatest skill set is working as a psychic and life coach. It just so happens I can also talk with dead people. With this being said, I absolutely know that there are more gifted mediums than myself. I also know it can bring incredible peace into people’s lives when I am able to share the overwhelming energy of love in a session. Funny enough, every time I decide to take mediumship off my website, something happens, and I am reminded that I can help people find peace in many different ways. How Those on The Other Side Connect with Us As our loved ones watch over us, it is more of them being aware of our vibration. Are we happy, sad, making good choices, or should we choose again? They can help steer us towards high vibrational choices.
It is important to know that when we are stressed, grieving, or depressed, it is much harder to receive messages from our loved ones. Do not give up on having a connection; they will still be there when you are ready. Visiting you in your dreams is an easy way for your loved ones to connect with you. This can even happen even when you are still grieving. Music is another way those on the other side connect with you. When you randomly hear a song that you previously enjoyed together, chances are they are orchestrating this connection. Our loved ones also help bring people into our lives. If you are looking for a dream job or ideal partner, ask your trusted loved ones on the other side. Those random times that it feels or smells like your loved one is with you breathe in deeply and enjoy this connection that they orchestrated. How You Can Connect Talk with your loved ones. This can be out loud or silently in your heart. You can also write them letters if that is an easier way to express your feelings. Continue taking part in what you shared together. Maybe you hiked, gardened, or had your favorite airline. It will be easier to imagine them with you, which is the first step to a connection with the unseen. Imagine that they are taking part in your meditation or prayer practice with you. Your heart is open wide in prayer and meditation; this makes connection easier. Ask your loved one for a sign. Maybe you want to see a picture of the New York City skyline. Know that
they can deliver this in a variety of ways. You might see it in a magazine, an ad on your iPhone or in a movie. Know they will try hard to make this happen:) You can also get a mediumship reading. Make sure it is someone who comes to you by word of mouth or at least has great reviews. Ask them how you can best connect with your loved one. Wrapping It Up I have had so many amazing experiences with those who have crossed over. Some have even shown me what it was like to cross over to the other side. One man recently came through at a group event. He had a troubled relationship with his family and was simply ready to stop the earthly fight. He showed me how he just gave up, let go of this life, and even pushed off into the unknown at the time of his death. He was more than ready to go. He also showed me how much he still loves his niece and watches over her. Your Connections However, you find yourself connecting with the other side, stay grounded. This can be with exercise, meditation, and, in this instance, sharing your experience with a trusted friend. Find that person or people that you can discuss the afterlife with. This keeps it real and not just in your head where you might doubt what is happening. Wherever you are in life, know that ancestors, angels, and guides are watching over you. We have many people and beings that are invested in our well-being. Some we knew in this lifetime and some beyond time and space. Enjoy discovering how you best connect with all who love you:)
Polly Wirum is a psychic, life coach, and writer. Years ago, she experienced a health crisis that led to a complete spiritual and life transformation. When she thought her life was crumbling, the universe was easing her grip on everything, distracting her from the truth. The healing helped her discover the beauty of a joyful and uncomplicated life. It is here that she connects with wisdom and magic. She shares this with her clients through life's coaching psychic readings and spiritual retreats. I0 discover more, visit Pollywirum.com
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An Ecology of Ideas
By Dulce García-Morman, Ph.D.
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Defining
Beauty through Nature W
hat is beauty? As defined by the Oxford Dictionary, it is as “a combination of qualities such as shape, colour, or form, that pleases the aesthetic senses especially the sight.” As such, beauty has normally been defined in the context of the fine arts -Music, Sculpture, Painting, Literature, Architecture, Performing, and Film. And, of course, the idea that beauty is “in the eyes of the beholder” is an accepted standard. Our individual experiences and our culture largely define what we see as beautiful. Beauty is not just an intellectual apprecia-
tion, but it is generally also accompanied by an emotional response from the most subtle to the most intense. There is emotion involved because something beautiful serves to communicate emotion, value, or meaning. I have long been fascinated with aesthetics, more from a philosophical perspective, as in the critical reflection of what is considered beautiful in art, culture, or nature. It wasn’t until 2009 that I was introduced to the work of scholar and Renaissance man Gregory Bateson. Bateson presented an intriguing perspective on the nature of beauty, which he saw primarily as the experience of interconnectedness between man and living nature.
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Experiencing beauty through nature is a concept familiar to most of us. Indeed, we have, at times, felt a variety of emotions when contemplating a certain landscape, a particular flower, or a particular animal out in nature. These emotions can be subtle but can also increase in vibration to an intense sense of awe. At least for me personally, I have found that encounters with beauty in nature can be transformative for us in that we have no choice but to release the grip that verbal language has on us. Let me explain what I mean by that, and I’d like the reader to connect with similar experiences of their own to see if this also holds for you. I will provide a couple of examples sourced from my own experience. For one, let’s conceive of a subtle encounter, such as walking through a foggy forest trail in late Fall. I live in the mountains of central New Mexico, and I would experience this walk as a cushion of decaying falling leaves under my feet, the fresh smell of crisp air, and the sound of a few birds, but primarily, the experience is one of active silence. In this encounter, I would not be particularly overwhelmed with intense emotion; instead, there might be a sense of peace, quiet joy, nostalgia for the summer gone, excitement over falling into Fall, and a sense that there is something magical that I could hold on to forever. I could describe this as a subtle encounter with beauty. On another note, I do recall an intense encounter with beauty when I went horseback riding with local horsemen through the steppes of the Banyankhongor region of Mongolia. This happened in August, in the year 2000. It was an experience that would change my life forever. I remember riding along at a quiet walking pace and suddenly coming to a lookout area on the hill. The plains that opened up before my eyes were so vast, the hills circling the valley below were so 86 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
green and velvety soft, and then the quiet pace changed when our horses’ ears perked up, and they became agitated as they swung their bodies toward the right. Below us, in the valley of green velvet, emerged a herd of wild horses! I have no idea to this day how many there could have been, but it was like an army of hundreds of thousands of warrior horses running free at last. Our head horseman decided that we would join the wild herd, riding with them at what felt like the fastest pace I’ve ever experienced on horseback. We rode with the wild horses for some time; I don’t know how long, and my body and mind were one, both in a state of pure awe and yet intensely present. It was a profound encounter with a beauty I had never envisioned possible! What both of my beauty encounters have in common -the subtle one on a walking trail in New Mexico and the intense one with wild Mongolian horses- is that they rendered me mute. In other words, encounters with beauty can be transformative in that they may take us from our conditioned verbal language into a different way of languaging. During these encounters, I have found that our usual tendency to want to describe our experience using words (whether outwardly or inwardly spoken) may be taken over by a wordless world of new language. In this world, we are externally muted yet internally languaged through feelings, sensations, and emotions, which is a fully embodied experience that requires no words. This sense of wordless awe may also be experienced when we encounter things like beautiful architecture, as in those majestic medieval cathedrals in Europe, or when we encounter beautiful, immersive art, as in the Rembrandt Experience show. But what I find distinct about nature is that it pulls my body further into the beauty encounter. In pullg
my body further into “the other” (the thing encountered), my heart also begins to participate more. I believe that Gregory Bateson was on to something when he reframed beauty as that felt a sense of interconnection with living nature, as opposed to nature expressed on an artist’s canvas. These experiences are transformative, and when they happen, they help to reorganize our future experiences -we will develop a tendency toward immersion/ oneness with “the other.” In other words, we learn a different way of relating to that which is external to us but part of us nonetheless…that thing that pulls our mind, body, and heart into Indra’s Web. We become “more than ourselves,” and this is expansive and evolutionary for our individual and collective consciousness. I believe that these experiences are accessible to anyone who steps into Mother Nature with the intention of loving her and communing with her. But these encounters with beauty can also happen without intention -we bump into it all the time by accident, and the trick is whether our body and heart can apprehend the moment. As I write this, I am taken back to a morning 18 years ago when I was horseback riding a trail with my riding buddy, Susie. It was a chilly and sunny Arizona morning under intense
blue skies. I was trotting with my horse Noble to Susie’s left and ahead of her and her mare Rosie. As I took the turn that switched the trail from a straight line to a curve, I felt something shift in me. I was in a state of awe, of rapture… I bumped into something that felt so beautiful. I don’t know if it was the sense of oneness with my horse, the perfect rhythm in his strides, or the amazing cottonwood trees that became visible as I turned the curve; all I know is that I was in heaven. I remember Susie catching up to me, and we looked at each other. She had this amazing smile and a feeling of joy on her face, and she asked, “Dulce, did you feel that?”. I whispered, “Yeah,” and we both uttered a silent laugh and kept on walking peacefully and wordlessly on our mounts. That was the day Susie and I encountered something beautiful that pulled our hearts into what Bateson calls our nestedness with nature. It is more than an intellectual recognition; it is embodied and heartfelt, and its reality does not have to be validated by verbal language. In fact, the most validating thing is to be rendered mute. Nature and humans are nested into each other, the fate of one inseparable from the other, our symmetries exposed, swimming together in silence -that is my favorite angle on [systemic and unifying] beauty.
Dulce García-Morman, Ph.D. is founder of Life-Is-Art Equine Assisted Learning & Coaching. She has facilitated learning and therapeutic experiences through the horse-human connection for the past 17 years. Dulce’s practice draws from different wisdom traditions and is strongly oriented toward a Jungian approach to the restoration of the authentic Self.For more information, visit https://life-is-art.us/
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Transcendental Voyages: Roaming the World and Reimagining the Self By Jan Wakefield, M.A.
Israel
Photo by Shai Pal
Where History & Spirituality Come Alive
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A
fter my plane landed in Tel Aviv, a city nestled up against the Mediterranean Sea, I stepped onto the ancient soil of Israel. I knew that my journey would be one filled with spiritual discoveries and historical revelations. After a short forty-five-minute drive across the country from west to east, the allure of the Dead Sea, the magnetic pull of Jerusalem, and the reverent presence of the Western Wall were waiting to unfold before me. The stage for my experience in this beautiful and richly cultural country was set many years before. My great-aunt always invited us over to regale tales of her annual pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Her passion for her faith was only eclipsed by her love for Israel, and I was eager to experience all the things she brought to life with her stories.
My adventure began at the surreal shores of the Dead Sea, a natural wonder that defies conventional wisdom with its extraordinarily high salt concentration. The sensation of buoyancy as I floated effortlessly on the surface of the water was an otherworldly experience. The sun painted the sky in hues of orange and pink as I gazed across the vast expanse of salt-laden water. The warmth of the water cradled me in the safety of the feminine, and I couldn't help but feel I was wrapped in the arms of the great earthmother herself. The mineral-rich mud, touted for its therapeutic properties, beckoned me to indulge in a luxurious spa-like ritual. I smoothed the velvety mud over my skin, embracing the sense of renewal and rejuvenation. Sitting on the shore, I turned my face to the sky. The warm sun kissed my face while the serene silence of the surroundings cocooned me in a state of utter tranquility. 90 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
From the Dead Sea, I embarked on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, a city where history echoes through every narrow alleyway and ancient stone. Walking through the bustling, narrow streets of the four-quarters of the Old City, I felt the weight of centuries of stories woven into its very fabric. I remembered my aunt's stories and could feel her presence with me. The aroma of spices and the chatter of merchants negotiating filled the air as I navigated through the labyrinthine paths of the Shuk market, awestruck by the vibrant tapestry of cultures coexisting harmoniously. The Western Wall, the sacred remnant of the Second Temple, stood before me, an emblem of devotion and resilience. I paused to take in the moment and to prepare myself for what was to come.
Approaching the Western Wall Plaza, I was enveloped in an atmosphere charged with emotion. Observing people of diverse backgrounds fervently praying and placing handwritten notes in the cracks of the ancient stones evoked a profound sense of unity in spirituality. I, too, joined in this timeless tradition, offering my prayers in a handwritten personal message to G-D on a carefully folded piece of paper. With a feeling of a deep connection to the generations who had come before me, I stuffed my prayers into the wall to rest near thousands of others. Prayer has always been a big part of my life, and to pray with others dedicated to lifting the veil of suffering brought tears. My eyes filled, and the tears just ran down my face, leaving clear tracks on my dusty skin. I cried for my late aunt and her devotion to this place, the many sad things that had
happened in the past, and for those who finally made it here to lodge prayers in this incredible time capsule of hope. I also cried tears of joy. I cried for the joy of new beginnings, for the ardent love so many expressed for this land, and I shed even more tears for the children who were so blessed to call this place home. The palpable reverence at the Western Wall Plaza contrasted with the lively ambiance of the adjacent Jewish Quarter. The harmonious blend of history and modernity was evident as I wandered through streets lined with charming cafes and adorned with art galleries showcasing contemporary expressions of Judaism. I found solace in the tranquil gardens of the Mount of Olives, savoring panoramic views of the city below while the aroma of freshly brewed coffee beckoned me to pause and immerse myself in the city's modern rhythm. At a local café, with a coffee in hand, I began to mentally pivot from my state of deep prayer to the intense curiosity of a devoted tourist.
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At a local café, with a coffee in hand, I began to mentally pivot from my state of deep prayer to the intense curiosity of a devoted tourist. No matter where I travel, I seek out churches, temples, and any place of worship that will let me in for a visit. One must fully absorb the essence of Jerusalem by immersing oneself in its religious tapestry. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, revered by Christians, holds some of the most incredible artwork, ancient rock walls that whisper timeless tales, and a breathtaking chapel deep in the recesses of the church. The Dome of the Rock, an iconic symbol for Muslims, stood as a testament to the city's spiritual significance, each exuding its unique aura of sanctity. It is hard to miss its dazzling golden dome that stands out prominently, but the real beauty is the intricate details on the inside of the dome. One can only imagine how the artists managed such magnificence without modern technology. In the heart of Jerusalem, the Tower of David Museum offered a captivating journey through the 92 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
city's past. From the ancient artifacts to the interactive exhibits, I traced the footsteps of conquerors and pilgrims, gaining a deeper understanding of Jerusalem's multifaceted history. However, amidst the historic grandeur, the city pulsated with a vibrant energy that transcended its ancient roots. As my time in Jerusalem drew to a close, I couldn't help but reflect on the profound impact this city had on me. Its rich tapestry of faiths, cultures, and histories interwoven into the very essence of its being left an indelible mark on my soul. My aunt must have felt the same way, and she returned each year to soak up the wonder of Israel. My journey to the Dead Sea, Jerusalem, and the Western Wall was not merely a physical exploration but a spiritual odyssey—an immersion into the cradle of civilization and a testament to the enduring human spirit. These revered sites encapsulated the timeless allure of one of the holiest places in the world, inviting travelers like me to discover, reflect, and be transformed by their enduring mystique. Photos courtesy to; Shai Pal Dave Herring Raimond Klavinsshay Cohen Benjamin Recinos Robert-bye Toa Heftiba Jonny-T
A lifelong traveler and educator, Jan Wakefield sees the world as a vast opportunity for expanding her understanding of the human condition. For her, travel equals transformation. Jan’s passion for travel and decades of experience as a personal transformation coach are the foundation for her international retreats, where people release who they once were and embrace who they want to be through meditation, relaxation, and a gentle return to self. In addition, Jan plans to visit all 195 countries in the world and share her experiences with readers and audiences worldwide. For more about Jan’s transformational retreats and programs visit http://jan-wakefield.com
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From all of us at The Eden Magazine here's to a joyous 2024 filled with endless creativity, prosperity, and beautiful stories waiting to unfold!
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Power The
of PARROTS by Lynne Page and Leslie Rugg
Parrots bestow priceless gifts on the people they encounter in safe environments. Parrots teach us to celebrate our similarities while understanding our differences. Parrots are unique in how they take on human characteristics while still staying true to their natural instincts. Parrots help activate our empathy as we learn what they have experienced at the hands of people. Parrots bring visual and emotional color to people who feel life has faded. And parrots teach us the responsibilities of ownership, nurturing, and friendship. Our lives are enriched when we are open to and learn the lessons parrots impart. Any animal is capable of touching us emotionally, but birds differ from cats and dogs. Birds are not domesticated creatures. Their survival depends on their flock and their sensitivity to their environment. In captivity, it becomes the human's job to be sensitive to a parrot's mood. A parrot may be confident or frightened, boisterous or quiet, outgoing or shy. Tuning into these moods, trying to understand their motivations, and modifying one's behavior accordingly can help humans understand themselves as well as birds. To look beyond – to the intelligence and strength of the bird and the power of the flock – can be the pivot that reenergizes human sensibility, transforming ignorance into knowledge, despair into hope, and anger into tranquillity.
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For others, therapy comes in the ebullience of birds. A woman facing life without her partner of many decades laughs when watching an Amazon mimic a song, whether opera or rock and roll. A boy with autism who struggles to make friends responds to a chatty African grey. Even shy birds create special moments. Imagine a female rose-breasted cockatoo who has come to fear humans. Imagine an elderly man in a wheelchair who often feels invisible. Now imagine the light in the man's eyes when this lovely, hesitant bird chooses to approach him and lets him touch her velvet feathers with a shaky hand. Parrots form deep friendships with other birds and with humans of their choice. Their preferences are not always understandable to us, but it is clear they don't care about social media, wealth, age, or an invalid concept of "normal." A rowdy caique may enjoy dancing with a human, whether or not the person dances well. A nervous budgie may gravitate to the person who sits quietly, letting the bird make an overture. By bringing parrots and humans together, respecting both, mindful of the need to protect the health and safety of both, it is possible to enrich both avian and human lives through the concept of an inclusive community. 98 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
Particularly for students, parrots can be engaging teachers of the sciences, humanities, and arts. Young children, captivated by dinosaurs, can meet a friendly cockatiel and learn just how it descends from a dinosaur. Older students may be intrigued by a parrot's complex respiratory system or the physics of flight or feather color. Nutrition? Ecology? Habitat loss? Climate change? Botany? Engineering of artificial nest boxes? Story-telling? Poetry? Arts and Crafts? Parrots can lead students into all these topics and more. Take macaws, for example. Because the conservation of parrots in the wild requires an understanding of the birds' place in local life and culture, a macaw can be the centerpiece of lessons in economics, myth and religion, indigenous ceremonies, and art. Why are macaw feathers important to Southwest American Pueblo tribes when these birds are native to Central and South America? That question alone opens up a world of learning. Parrots are ambassadors for regions around the world. Wild psittacines fly free in most tropical and subtropical areas, including Central and South America, Africa, India, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. Hookbills can be the hook to grab the attention of someone who might not have previously had an interest in other cultures, geography, local and international law and politics, or issues of ecotourism. We humans have been attracted to what is exotic throughout our history. The extraordinary beauty and intelligence of parrots is one such example. In ancient civilizations, indigenous Brazilian tribes painted images of macaws on cave walls. Ancient Sanskrit recounted the accomplishment of teaching a parrot or mynah to talk. Greek philosopher Aristotle mentioned pet parrots and their skill of mimicry,
Photo by Lena Sifoo
Some people in pain may be drawn to birds, whose life experience mirrors their own. A defeated child, already in and out of several foster homes, may identify with the vulnerability of a parrot and listen intently to the story of a little green conure similarly shunted from home to home who is finally sheltered and loved. A veteran who lost a limb in may be impressed by the one-winged cockatoo who no longer flies but has adjusted to a grounded life.
Photo by Bisakha Datta
enhanced after imbibing wine. During the same era, Alexander the Great brought ringneck parakeets from India to Europe in 327 BC. In more modern times, Columbus's ships returned from the Americas with Cuban Amazons for Queen Isabella of Spain. England's Henry VIII had a pet African gray. Madame du Barry, mistress of King Louis XV, popularized parrots as pets in France. US President Theodore Roosevelt had two macaws - a Blue and Gold and a Hyacinth. Parrots don't just fall out of trees, knock on our doors, and ask to be caged in our homes. Humans have taken some deplorable actions in bringing these wild and wonderful creatures to the marketplace. Our global fascination with parrots has caused tragic suffering as we threaten and destroy their natural habitats for our own commercial profiteering. Despite the Wild Bird Conservation Act of 1992, illegal parrot smuggling still occurs. Traumatized adults are captured while, more frequently, poachers raid nests to grab chicks. Yet only a small percentage of captured birds make it to market; an estimated three die for each one bought by a consumer. The animated "Rio" films show what has happened to one such parrot species – the Spix macaw. Commercial/factory captive breeding is hardly better, based on maximizing income with little, if any, consideration of health.
Breeding pairs may be so poorly housed that they have no space to stretch and flap their wings or even perch. Little birds, such as budgies, are often consigned to crowded aviaries with no human interaction and fed a poor diet devoid of nutrients that support healthy growth. They rarely receive veterinary care because a vet visit costs more than the profit on the sale of a cheap bird that can be bred in large numbers. Larger parrots such as Amazons, cockatoos, and macaws are often also confined in small cages with little or no enrichment. Picture an orphanage in the old days or on the other side of our planet, and you get the idea. Calling chicks "hand-raised" may merely mean they are taken from their parents and given food by human hands to get them ready for a buyer. These babies, like orphans, never learn from their parents how to be birds. Instead, they are at the mercy of humans – empathetic or abusive – to figure out how to get along with this species they might never encounter in the wild. In the wild, nature takes care of birds, allowing the strong to survive and reproduce while culling the weak. In captivity, humans must take the time to learn about bird health, what is required to feed birds properly, house them, stimulate their intelligence, and prepare them to interact with humans in a home setting – all according to the birds' species, native habitats, and instincts.
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Parrots don't just fall out of trees, knock on our doors, and ask to be caged in our homes. Humans have taken some deplorable actions in bringing these wild and wonderful creatures to the marketplace. Our global fascination with parrots has caused tragic suffering as we threaten and destroy their natural habitats for our own commercial profiteering.
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Is every captive parrot sentenced to a life of misery? On occasion, a lucky match is formed between the right bird and the right person. The only hitch is human life expectancy. Many parrots outlive their wonderful owners... and then what? Family members may not be willing or able to offer a home to the bird. Now, the parrot, grieving the loss of a lifetime caretaker and companion, fortunate enough to have enjoyed a stable, loving home for decades, joins the flock of birds passed from place to place.
Their physiology, hormones, and instincts are designed for flying hundreds of miles a day, watching for predators, hunting for food, bonding with and protecting a mate, and working to exhaustion to build and defend their nests and feed their chicks. Nothing prepares or suits them for sitting quietly in a cage for hours on end and then acting friendly with a variety of humans who sporadically show but expect affection. A parrot is not a pet for someone with limited space, time, and interest.
However a pet problem is created, a solution must be implemented That becomes the role of rescues, havens, and sanctuaries – like The Plumery – whose explicit mission is to step in and offer rehabilitation, respite, safety, compassion, and a willingness to recreate the quality of life.
Not buying a parrot does not mean not enjoying birds. We at The Plumery encourage people to volunteer at avian welfare organizations, to become birdwatchers, to help protect habitats, and to participate in minimizing climate change. As a haven, The Plumery provides superior nutrition, social engagement, intellectual stimulation, veterinary care, and stability to relinquished pet parrots... and, in the process, also provides teachable lessons for people to take to heart.
We undo the neglect, ignorance, and naive intentions of pet owners, led to believe parrots are easy pets. After all, you can keep them in cages. You simply fill their water dish now and then, toss in some birdseed in another dish, and leave them alone for hours or days – right? Most breeders and pet stores are too eager to make a sale to correct this misconception. The truth is birds need, demand, and deserve complex care. 100 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e JANUARY 2024
For more information about The Plumery and its mission and to donate, go to www.theplumery.org, facebook. com/theplumery, and office@theplumery.org.
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New Study revealed America's most searched health concerns and expert wellness tips to help relieve symptoms
by https://yogajala.com/
- Yoga expert reveals how Yoga can benefit some of the most common health concerns in America - Female reproductive condition endometriosis ranks as the most searched-for health concern in every US state - New research finds New York is the most health-concerned state in America - Expert explains how alleviating stress in the mind may help relieve physical symptoms in the body
N
ew research reveals what health conditions Americans are searching for advice about the most, with endometriosis as the number one search in every state across the US.
The world’s leading yoga site, yogajala conducted a study of Google search data to determine what health conditions Americans are most concerned about as the experts reveal how sufferers may be able to relieve some symptoms through yoga and controlled breathing exercises.
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1. Endometriosis The study found that endometriosis patients experience an average of 793,583 monthly searches across the US. It is a medical condition that affects around 1 in 10 women and those assigned female at birth. The condition relates to where the uterine lining tissue begins developing outside the uterus. Sufferers of the condition can experience excruciating periods, back pain, bloating, and fatigue, among other symptoms.
2. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) PCOS is a hormonal disorder that is estimated to affect between 6-12% of women of reproductive age, and the research found that PCOS has an estimated average monthly national search volume of 632,000. This happens when the ovaries produce excessive amounts of male hormones, disrupting the egg-release cycle from the ovaries. This can result in absent or irregular periods as well as acne, weight gain, fertility problems, and excessive hair growth. The disorder also is associated with emotional issues such as depression and anxiety. 3. Sciatica Sciatica is one of the most common types of pain, and as reported by Harvard Medical School, as many as 40% of people may experience it at some point in their lives. The study identified it to be the third-most searched health condition in the US, with an average of 483,333 monthly searches. The condition occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back to the feet, gets irritated or compressed. This can result in pain, tingling, numbness or weakness in the back, legs, and feet.
4. Vertigo Vertigo ranks as the fourth-most searched health condition in the US, with an average monthly search volume of 450,000. This condition is the sensation of spinning, which is likely to make the sufferer disorientated, and episodes can range from mild to severe, which may even affect physical balance. The University of California San Francisco has reported that nearly 40% of US adults may experience symptoms of the condition at least once in their life. The most common type of vertigo is caused by an inner ear imbalance, but it can also be due to issues with the parts of the brain that control how the body moves. 5. Insomnia Perhaps a more familiar health issue, insomnia is a sleep disorder that prevents the sufferer from getting a good night’s sleep, which can include difficulty in falling asleep, struggle to remain asleep, or poor sleep quality. Studies have shown that up to 1 in 3 people worldwide may suffer from insomnia symptoms, and the condition receives 417,333 average monthly searches across the US as suffers take to the internet for advice on how to handle the condition. 103 THEEDENMAGAZINE.COM e OCTOBER 2023
How might Yoga help relieve symptoms of these conditions? Registered Yoga Teacher and Editor at yogajala, Maria Andrews, has commented on the findings and provides expert insight into how the stress-relieving effects of yoga practice may help lessen the severity of symptoms and soothe the minds and bodies of sufferers of these conditions. She says: “It is important that people suffering from any health condition follow the advice of a medical professional and abstain from any movement or stretches which cause them any pain.
Yoga
is a natural way
to fight insomnia, and studies show over 55% of people who practice state it has helped them sleep better.
“Some conditions, such as sciatica, call for gentler poses, which can be practiced with safety as a top priority, such as Child’s Pose or Cobra Pose – these can be aided using bolsters (or cushions) for comfort. It is vital you listen to your body and honour how it feels – your body knows best.” However, Maria states that a common symptom suffered by anyone with a condition that negatively affects their health is stress – whether this be mental, physical, or both: “Stress is a causative factor in many physical symptoms, and finding relief in these can largely start with calming the mind – something which is a pillar of yoga practice. “Gentle asanas, meditation, and yoga breathing techniques (such as 4-78 breathing) all work to quieten the
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mind and may draw your attention from how uncomfortable your body feels when experiencing cramping or discomfort if you have conditions like endometriosis, bloating, or PMS symptoms. “Poses such as Supine Spinal Twist or Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose work to calm the body, boost circulation, and relax pelvic and stomach discomfort. “Sufferers of conditions such as PCOS or vertigo may find the effects of symptoms stressful and may induce anxiety. These practices help to soothe and may develop stress-coping mechanisms in the brain. Asanas may even help develop the cerebellum and prevent malfunctions in the balancing systems.” For insomnia, Maria comments how stress can even be a factor causing the condition itself: “Yoga is a natural way to fight insomnia, and studies show over 55% of people who practice state it has helped them sleep better. “Relaxing muscle tension and the mediative practice of connecting the body and breath can help reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone), which makes our bodies alert, to help our brains to become sleepy.” As well as finding which conditions Americans are most concerned about, the experts at yogajala also identified which states are searching the internet for advice about medical conditions the most.
The thought process plays an important role and influence on metaphysical energy. ~Richard Garnier
HYPNOMAGNETISM Richard is revered for his multidisciplinary modalities, blending academic acumen with research and transformational acuity - embodying the role of a healer, intuitive engineer, and energetics specialist. Richard has spent three decades transforming and elevating the lives of a client list that includes television personalities, entre preneurs, athletes, and actors. As a renowned author,inventor, and frequent featured guest across European TV networks, Richard is regarded as a leader in alternative energetics. Richard trained in both Eastern and Western methodologies, Richard has gathered a unique library and toolbox of ancient energy modalities (Taoism, Tibetan studies, Qigong) and modern-day neuroscientific techniques (hypnosis, NLP/ neuro-linguistic programming). Richard offers new perspectives, insights, and teachings from his travels around the world, and exchanges knowledge with thought leaders in alternative practices and disciplines, including Tibetan, Taoist, and Shaman Native American masters, among others.
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