May 2025 by Retailing Insight Magazine

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RUNNING A HOLISTIC BUSINESS WITHOUT LOSING YOUR MIND

Picture this: You’re standing in your beautifully curated holistic shop, surrounded by the scent of lavender and the hum of soft meditation music. You have a shelf of perfectly chosen products for spiritual enlightenment, a table full of handcrafted crystal bracelets, and a sense of calm...

And then the door swings open…

A customer rushes in, radiating an aura of pure chaos, demanding to

know why the Full Moon candle isn’t actually making their ex come back. Another customer is debating with you on whether palo santo is “problematic” and demanding to see your ethical sourcing paperwork. The phone rings; your supplier sent you 50 pounds of Himalayan salt instead of the ten jars of cleansing spray you ordered — and, of course, that item is now backordered for 60 days.

Oh, and rent is due.

About the Author: Jacki Smith is the founder and owner of Coventry Creations, a pioneer in the world of spiritual candles for over 30 years. Her parallel journey in the spiritual and business world allowed Jacki to hone her craft of honoring the Business Soul. From books to podcasts, Jacki shares her experiences with the world. Her coaching clients rave about how she helps them find the soul of their business so they can create their ideal life. You can find Jacki on social media at https://www.facebook.com/jacki.smith.official, https://www.instagram.com/jacki. smith.official/, https://www.threads.net/@jacki.smith.official

Welcome to the world of running a holistic business. It’s magical, chaotic, and occasionally makes you want to throw a crystal through a window.

And yet, you love it. You love the moments when someone fi nds exactly what they need in your shop, the look of relief when they hold the right stone, the gratitude in their eyes when your guidance helps them navigate their spiritual journey.

You wouldn’t trade this for a corporate job, so before you reach for the emergency sage bundle, let’s talk about how you can run your business without losing your mind—or your soul.

ACCEPT THAT YOU WILL NEVER HAVE IT ALL TOGETHER

Truth bomb: There is no fi nish line where you suddenly have it all figured out. No divine download, no cosmic cheat code that unlocks infi nite business wisdom. (If there were, I’d be selling it for $19.99 with free shipping.)

Here’s the real secret: Every single business owner is making it up as they go.The difference between the ones who thrive and the ones who burn out? They embrace the mess.

Your inventory will never be perfect. Your marketing strategy will always be evolving. Some months, your cash flow will feel like it’s doing the

cha-cha (two steps forward, one step back). And that’s okay. Progress, not perfection.

Perfection is the Enemy of Success

The people who seem the most “together” in business? They’re winging it just like the rest of us. You’re seeing their Instagram-perfect moment, not the pint of ice cream they ate while stress-Googling, “Do I really need to pay for that course telling me my current social media strategy is failing?”

If your perfectionism is keeping you from launching that workshop, expanding your product line, or even just posting to social media because it’s not just right — let it go. Done is better than perfect.

Tarot as Storyteller

Psychic Development, Cartomancy, and Reading the Web of Fate

Salicrow

Psychic medium Salicrow reveals how to read divination cards with greater accuracy and more profound insight. She explores cartomancy as psychic storytelling, outlining techniques to develop intuition, psychic ability, and analytical questioning. With exercises in activated prayer, spell work, and guided journeys, readers are introduced to the Major Arcana as personal experiences.

$22.99 • Paperback • 320 pages

ISBN 979-8888502068 • 96 b&w illustrations

Feng Shui with Archangels, Unicorns, and Dragons

How to Transform the Energies of Your Home and Life

Franziska Siragusa

Foreword by Diana Cooper

In this 5D Feng Shui guide, Franziska Siragusa shows how to activate the flow of cosmic abundance in your home and life with the support of archangels, unicorns, and dragons.

$16.99 • Paperback • 160 pages

ISBN 979-8888502259

1 b&w illustration

Plant Energy Medicine

The Guiding Voice and Healing Vibration of 58 Plants

Rhonda PallasDowney

Sandi O’Connor

Foreword by Rosemary Gladstar

Rhonda PallasDowney and Sandi O’Connor explore how to deepen your personal experience with the world of plants and connect with their energies.

$24.99 • Paperback • 320 pages

ISBN 979-8888501757 • Full-color throughout

You Are Not the Buddha

You started this business to help people. Maybe you were an energy worker, a candle maker (hi, same), or just someone who needed to get the hell out of corporate life. You imagined creating a space for seekers, building a community, and supporting yourself doing something meaningful.

And now? Now you’re knee-deep in spreadsheets, answering emails at 2 a.m., and trying to remember the last time you actually meditated.

Let me break it to you: You cannot run a holistic business while holding yourself to the standard of perpetual Zen. That’s a one-way ticket to burnout, and no amount of chakra realignment will save you.

Your first task? Embrace the imperfection. Running a business is messy. It’s okay to lose your cool sometimes. It’s okay to have a “we’re out of peppermint oil, and I want to cry” kind of day. It’s okay to order takeout instead of making an organic, locally sourced, gluten-free meal.

The key is to catch yourself before you spiral and create rituals that bring you back to center.

CREATE RITUALS FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH (NOT JUST FOR CUSTOMERS)

We tell our customers all the time: Rituals create change. Intentions matter. Magic is in the everyday moments. And yet, we forget to do it for ourselves.

So, let’s fix that. Here’s a simple business ritual for you:

Morning Grounding Ritual

Before opening your doors (or logging onto your online shop), take five minutes. Light a candle. Breathe. Set an intention for the day. Something like, “Today, I will be patient with the people who test me. Like that one customer who thinks a $2 discount is a human right.”

Midday Reset

When things start getting chaotic, don’t just push through. That’s how you end up vibrating at the frequency of a feral cat. Step away. Touch a crystal. Make some tea. Stand outside for a moment. Even just a few breaths can shift your energy.

End-of-Day Closure

Do something that marks the end of your workday, especially if you work from home. Blow out a candle, ring a bell, write down one good thing that happened. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself answering customer DMs at 10 p.m., trying to explain the difference between rose quartz and pink calcite to someone who refuses to Google.

BOUNDARIES: HOW TO STOP BEING EVERYONE’S FREE THERAPIST

You know that customer. The one who walks in, sighs dramatically, and says, “Wow, the energy in here is just so healing.”

Before you can even say hello, they launch into their entire life story— career struggles, relationship woes, maybe even their past-life regression experience. And they want you to fix it.

I get it. You’re a healer. You want to help.

But if I had a dollar for every time someone expected free readings, energy cleanses, or life coaching while “just browsing,” I’d be writing this from a beachfront retreat.

Here’s how to set boundaries:

Set Clear Policies and Stick to Them

Have a sign that states your consultation fees.

If you offer free guidance, define clear limits.

Use Simple Scripts to Keep Conversations on Track

“That’s a great question! I offer consultations for that — here’s my rate.”

“That sounds like a lot to unpack. I recommend booking a session.”

“I love that you’re exploring this! If you’re looking for tools, I can suggest a few.”

Protect Your Time and Energy

If you don’t value your time, no one else will.

It’s okay to say no to free sessions.

The right customers will respect your boundaries.

Being kind doesn’t mean being constantly available. The people who truly value your work won’t expect it for free.

MONEY IS NOT A BAD THING

Spiritual business owners are notorious for undercharging, overgiving, and then wondering why their bank account looks like a sad, empty void.

I get it. You started this business because you love it, not because you wanted to be a cutthroat capitalist. But let’s be clear: Profit is not the enemy.

Money is energy. It flows. And if you keep blocking it with guilt, underpricing, and discounting your worth, your business will struggle.

So, repeat after me:

I deserve to be paid for my time and expertise.

Charging what I’m worth allows me to continue serving my community.

Financial abundance and spiritual abundance can coexist.

Now, go raise your prices if you need to.

CELEBRATE THE SMALL WINS

Did you make it through another month? High five. Did someone tell you that your product changed their life? Take that in. Did you finally wrestle your stockroom into something that doesn’t look like an archaeological dig site? That’s a victory.

Celebrate It

Too often, we wait for the big moment — the record-breaking sales day, the feature in a magazine, the viral social media post. But success isn’t just in the grand gestures. It’s

in the small, quiet wins that stack up over time.

So, take a second. Do a happy dance in your store. Buy the fancy coffee. Treat yourself to that new crystal (let’s be honest, you were going to anyway).

The more you celebrate, the more you remind yourself why you started this in the first place.

REMEMBER WHY YOU STARTED

Some days, running a spiritual business feels like you’re floating in perfect alignment, effortlessly tapped into the flow of the Universe. Other days, it feels like the Universe backed over you with a cosmic dump truck. When sales are slow, when someone tells you your candles must be defective because they didn’t manifest a soulmate in three days, or when you’re tempted to shut it all down and go work at a cat café — pause.

Ask yourself:

Why did you take this leap?

What kind of magic do you bring into the world?

Who have you helped along the way?

Write it down. Stick it where you’ll see it. Make it your phone wallpaper. Repeat it when doubt creeps in.

Because, yes, this path is hard. The market shifts. Customers are unpredictable. Algorithms play mind games.

But the world still needs what you offer.

Think about that person who wandered in, exhausted and overwhelmed, and left with a little more lightness in their step. The one who told you, “I don’t know why, but I just

feel better when I’m here.” The one who came in looking for a simple gift and left with something that profoundly changed their life.

That’s why you keep going.

And if you can navigate this wild, beautiful, unpredictable path with humor, grace, and maybe a little candle magic—then, my friend, you’re already winning.

YOU’RE NOT ALONE IN THIS

Running a holistic business is a ride. Some days, you feel like you’re soaring. Your intuition is on point, customers are vibing, and everything flows effortlessly. Other days, it’s exhausting, overwhelming, and you wonder if Mercury is ever going to stop messing with you.

But here’s the thing — you’re not in this alone.

There are so many shop owners just like you across the country, navigating the same ups and downs, asking the same questions, and wondering if they should stock more moon water or just take a nap instead – reach out. Connect with others who understand what it’s like to do this work. Trade stories, share strategies, vent about the weirdest customer requests you’ve gotten (because we all have them).

Community makes this easier. We lift each other up. We remind each other why this work matters. We are all magic.

So, light a candle, take a breath, and keep going... the world needs you — and so do the rest of us!

N E W !

From the author of Autobiography of a Yogi

Solving the Mystery of Life

Collected Talks and Essays on Realizing God in Daily Life

Available in June

The timeless teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda have profoundly in uenced today’s world, in which meditation, mindfulness, and self-development have become part of the daily life of millions. Often referred to as the “Father of Yoga in the West,” Yogananda’s wisdom is not the studied learning of a scholar, but the empirical testimony of one who attained God-realization.

is new anthology of nearly 40 of his talks provides insight, inspiration and practical spiritual guidance to help people:

• Stay positive in the face of adversity

• Live without fear

• Find greater purpose

• Overcome moods and create emotional balance

• Establish loving relationships • and much more

Drawn from the extensive archive of Yogananda’s talks, this is the 4th volume in a best-selling series that includes Man’s Eternal Quest, e Divine Romance, and Journey to Self-realization.

Readers looking for answers to the myriad outer and inner challenges of life today will nd these talks alive with the unique blend of all-embracing wisdom, encouragement, and authenticity that have made Yogananda one of our era’s most trusted guides to the spiritual life.

424 pages, 15 photos

sales@srfpublishers.org 888.773.8680

Bibliotherapy THE HOUSE OF HEALING FOR THE SOUL

When I was a little girl, I was given a great gift. A traumatic childhood accident meant that I spent a lot of time in hospital. One day, when I was seven years old and back in the children’s ward once again, my mother pressed a red leather-bound book into my hands, to comfort and console me.

It was a beautiful edition of Grimm’s Fairy Tales, translated from German by Lucy Crane in 1882 and illustrated by her brother Walter. As soon as I opened the cover of that book and began to read, I was magically transported to a world filled with enchantment and peril. A young woman was locked away from the world in a tower, a princess was cursed to sleep

for a hundred years, a girl must not laugh or speak for seven long years while she sews shirts from nettles to save her swan brothers. These stories gave me an electric shock of recognition. I was not the only one to feel lost and alone, to be facing sadness and pain, to feel powerless and silenced. Yet those fairytale characters faced their difficulties with courage and fortitude, and all triumphed in the end. They gave me hope that I too could win through.

This was the great gift that I was given – the realization that books and stories have the power to heal and help us. This was an epiphany for me, but it is not a new concept. The earliest known library in the world

About the Author: Dr Kate Forsyth is an internationally renowned author, storyteller, and fairytale scholar. She has won several awards for her work, including the American Library Association Award for Best Historical Novel for her book Bitter Greens as well as Aurealis Awards for multiple titles. In recognition of her contribution to Australian fairytale culture, she was awarded the Australian Fairy Tale Society Award in 2018. Kate holds a Doctorate of Creative Arts in fairytale studies and is an accredited master storyteller with the Australian Guild of Storytellers. She also teaches writing retreats in locations including Australia, Fiji, Greece, and the United Kingdom. Her work has sold over 1.5 million copies across various formats and languages worldwide. To visit her page, please go to www.kateforsyth.com.au or follow her on socials @kate_forsyth and facebook.com/kateforsythauthor

was built by Pharaoh Ramses II, who reigned in ancient Egypt between 1279 – and 1213 BC. It held over 10,000 papyrus rolls and, over its lintel, bore an inscription that called the library ‘the house of healing for the soul’.

Much later, the Roman writer Cicero used the term medicina animae (medicine for the soul) to describe the emotional release and psychic restoration that reading and listening to stories can bring us. Nowadays it is called bibliotherapy, and is a form of creative arts therapy that mindfully uses literature to bring emotional connection and well-being, new understanding, and wisdom into someone’s life.

Bibliotherapy is a dynamic interaction between a reader and a text. When someone sees themselves in a story, and identifies with a character and their situation, they project themselves into the narrative in a very personal way. The story comes to have a much deeper meaning for them, and so has the capacity to move them deeply and profoundly. This intimate connection with a text is the fi rst step towards harnessing its therapeutic powers.

The second step is the cathartic release of emotional tensions such as anxiety, grief or rage. The word ‘catharsis’ comes from the ancient Greek ‘to purge’, and occurs when a book, a movie, a song or any kind of art evokes powerful emotions in someone, like a spontaneous storm of tears, leaving them with a new feeling of relief, lightness, liberation, and renewal.

The third step in bibliotherapy is the new insight achieved when the reader interrogates their emotional response to the text in order to more deeply understand themselves. It can be difficult, sometimes, to make sense of our feelings and emotional reactions, particularly when we are coping with grief, dealing with anxiety or depression, or struggling with existential worries such as loneliness, meaninglessness, and the fear of loss

or death. By exploring why a particular story speaks to us so powerfully, we can come to comprehend some of our unconscious desires and drives, and build self-compassion and self-understanding.

The fi nal step is realizing we are not alone in our struggles. Knowing that other people face the same dilemmas and difficulties helps foster a sense of universality and shared experience, and relieves feelings of difference and isolation.

There are a number of ways in which bibliotherapy can be used.

Independent bibliotherapy is when someone mindfully seeks out books they hope will help them in their personal journey of growth and self-understanding. Books and stories offer comfort, stimulation, and knowledge, and teach us empathy, resilience, and self-esteem, and so prescribing ourselves certain books is a beautiful form of self-care.

Creative bibliotherapy usually takes place in a group setting, with books, stories, and poems being read and discussed by a group of people, who then write their own texts either by journalling or by turning their lived experiences into fiction.

Developmental bibliotherapy is used in educational settings to help children deal with childhood and adolescent issues like behavioral problems, bullying, or shyness.

Prescriptive bibliotherapy is the use of self-help books and other texts in a clinical setting to help understand and modify harmful thought patterns, feelings, and actions. It is often combined with other types of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, to help understand and manage major psychological issues such as eating disorders or substance abuse.

Interestingly, given my own personal epiphany, many psychologists fi nd fairy tales are a wonderful resource for bibliotherapy, regardless of the

age of the participant. There are a number of key reasons for this.

Fairy tales are often a child’s fi rst experience of narrative transportation, that beguiling sensation of being so deeply immersed in a story that you lose a sense of your real-world surroundings. Often a child encounters the dangers and surprises of a fairy tale text in a place of comfort and safety, snuggled up beside a caring adult in a cozy spot, and that offers them a safe place where they can act out or experience difficult emotions and experiences.

The simplicity of the tales makes it very easy for a listener or reader to project themselves into the story, and the ultimate triumph of the protagonist over the malignant forces of the tale emboldens the child to feel that they too may prevail against their own problems. Most importantly, perhaps, fairy tales inspire a belief in goodness, justice, and love. This leads to a more optimistic outlook, vital in counteracting anxiety, depression and a feeling that only dark times lie ahead.

Fairy tales are gateways to other worlds, and so they open up our minds to other possibilities. Trees may be sentient, animals may have their own language, inanimate objects may be imbued with power. The more open we are to possibility, the more curious we are about the world, the more able we are to learn and grow and change.

The stories we encounter in childhood have a profound impact upon our imaginations. Graham Greene once said that the stories encountered in the fi rst fourteen years of our lives have an excitement and revelation that cannot be equalled by narratives we read later. This means that returning to stories we loved passionately and intensely as children can give us all sorts of surprising insights into who we are now.

So how can we harness the therapeutic power of fairy tales for ourselves?

Ask yourself what was the fairy tale that spoke to you most powerfully as a child.

In your journal, write down everything you can remember about that fairy tale. Just write freely, don’t worry about putting it all in chronological order.

Ask yourself why it was this particular fairy tale that made such a powerful impression upon you. Can you remember how you fi rst encountered it? Was it read to you? By whom? Did you fi rst see it in movie form? Write down all your memories related to the tale.

What is your favourite element in the tale? Why?

Now go and read the fairy tale again. Be aware there is not one ‘right’ version of the tale. Fairy tales are very old and have been told and retold over the centuries, changing every time. You may wish to discover other versions of the tale, told at different times and in different places.

How different is your memory of the tale to its actuality? Why do you think you remembered some aspects and not others?

Consider each character in the story. What role do they play? Could the story be told without them? Why not?

Now think about each of the characters as being a hidden aspect of yourself. In what way does the fairytale allow expression of particular fears and longings of yours?

Think about the key motifs in the story. What do they symbolise for you?

10.

How would you retell the story now, given the chance?

11.

Use the fairy tale as a launch-pad for your own creativity. Write a poem, draw a picture, design a fairy tale outfit, do whatever you like.

12.

Write your own life as a fairy tale, following the basic structure of some kind of catalyst, the event that precipitates the transformative journey, a series of tests and tasks, the dark moment in which it seems all is lost, the fi nal struggle, the moment of triumph at the end, and the reward that you have won.

For the true magic of fairy tales is not just to enchant us and offer us escape from sources of stress. They have the power to help us reconsider and rewrite our own story.

Want to know more? Discover Kate Forsyth’s Fairytale Oracle Cards, a tool for self-discovery and selfreflection that examines eleven of the world’s favourite fairytales and their motifs for the wisdom hidden within. Dr Kate Forsyth is an award-winning author, poet and storyteller with a doctorate in fairy tale studies.

TAROT AS STORYTELLER ETHICS, MORALS, AND REPUTATION

One of the most important questions we should ask as a reader is, “Should I reveal this information?”

When people come to a psychic for a reading, they are asking the Seer to look deeply into their lives. But what about the people they ask about—their lovers, friends, family, and adversaries? Is it right for us to reveal information about someone who has not agreed to having their story revealed?

This kind of inquiry most often occurs when the querent is asking about someone they are in a relationship with. In such scenarios they are often seeking hidden knowledge about the person’s actions and feelings. While it is helpful to understand where someone else is coming from—particularly when our lives are interwoven—we must ask ourselves at what point are we eavesdropping on someone else’s private life. In determining this, it is helpful to ask ourselves whether the person inquired

about would want the querent to have this knowledge about them. It can be tricky, as often the question is asked with good intentions, but we all have things we just don’t want to share with others.

When I encounter such situations, I work both with my common sense, asking, “Would I want someone receiving psychic knowledge of this sort about me?” and with a simple thought that I have programmed into my higher consciousness, asking that I be blocked of seeing things the person inquired about would not want revealed, unless such things involve danger.

As psychic readers we are held to a higher level of honesty and morals, as we are dealing with people’s personal lives. We are also more likely to be scrutinized than a therapist or life coach, as our workings have a “magical” nature to them, which makes many people uncomfortable to begin with. In truth, our reputation is highly valuable, and we

must do what we can to keep it on point. We must be cautious in the advice we give, recognizing that we are neither doctor, lawyer, nor therapist, and while we may clearly see the issue, it is against the law for us to claim our advice as authority!

This means, when we see medical conditions, we cannot diagnose; instead, we need to weave our words carefully, suggesting that there may be a problem in a particular area of the person’s health, and advise them to seek medical attention. The same goes with mental health issues and legal battles. I regularly advise my clients that I cannot give them such information. Some psychics go so far as to post this information on their websites and social media feeds, making it clear that they are not suggesting psychic knowledge should override that of guidance from medical and legal professionals.

Another keynote when it comes to being a professional reader is that—unlike therapists, doctors, and lawyers—it is not advised that we keep documentation on our clients, other than email addresses and other logistical things. In truth, it’s best if we put their information out of our minds shortly after the reading is done. This not only helps us keep our lives balanced, but it also means you do not have to worry about where we store and dispose of the files, and whether our client’s life secrets are being kept that way.

While I do allow recordings of my sessions, those who see me in person are advised to record on their phones, and for online readings, in which I record for them, I advise them to download their recording within one week, as I will be deleting it after that point.

Reputation is everything when it comes to developing a career as a reader, particularly for those who wish to read cards as part of their occupation! It is important that we see ourselves as a professional, which means not only developing our psychic skills but also those of consistency and composure, as it’s important to create a grounded at-

"

An empathic pool is just that: filling the empty space around you with energy of your choosing— in this case, warm, calm, and grounded"

mosphere where the querent can feel at peace while receiving their reading, allotting them the comfort necessary to clearly hear and understand the messages being presented. It is helpful to establish regular locations and hours we are available for readings, and in this day and age to have such information available on our

websites and social media feeds; this includes scheduled times we will be at psychic fairs and wellness events.

It also means taking time to set the stage, making our environment inviting and peaceful, regardless of whether we have our own reading room or a table set up at a psychic fair. If we are still in the mobile stage of our professional career, doing the psychic fair circuit, I recommend using the same props and tools for every fair, as we know that items retain a memory of their own over time. It also provides us with a small ritual to prepare ourselves every time we enter a new space, allowing us to slip more deeply into our role as psychic advisor as we lay out our table covering, and set out a few crystals.

Along with physically setting our space it is helpful to energetically set our space, something I like to refer to as “programming the empathic pool.” To do this we must learn to reverse our empathic ability, so that instead of being bombarded by the emotions of each client that arrives, we create an energetic space like a calm pool in which they can feel at ease.

TECHNIQUE

Programming Your Empathic Pool

Psychic energy is a lot like water in that it can expand out to encompass whatever area it is placed in, filling the nooks and crannies, leaving no empty space untouched. An empathic pool is just that: filling the empty space around you with energy of your choosing—in this case, warm, calm,

and grounded. But this same skill can be used to create a totally different energy if we need, such as an air of danger around us if we feel we need protection, showing that we are not easy prey!

This exercise works best if we have control of our space, such as a personal office or classroom. However, we can do this anywhere, at any time; in fact, I do it every time I get on an airplane! In such cases, it is helpful to work with a particular item, such as a ring or crystal, that we use as a trigger, remembering that repetitive use of an item creates ease and flow. In the technique below we will be creating an empathic pool filled with peaceful, grounded energy, so that our clients can relax and fully hear their reading. Note: This exercise can be done out loud or in your head, depending on your situation.

YOU WILL NEED: A talisman of some sort that can be used repeatedly, such as a crystal, pendant, ring, or lucky rabbit’s foot, and your Book of Shadows.

Begin by holding your talisman in your hands and taking a few deep breaths, as you survey the area (card table, office, etc.). Engage Reiki or other healing modalities currently if you work with them.

Call in your spiritual allies, asking that they aid you in your work of creating sacred space.

Focus your mind on what you want your space to feel like, speaking to the space as you do (in your head or out loud).

Imagine there is a pinprick of white light in the center of your heart chakra. On every inhale it gets brighter, and on every exhale you expand it. Continue doing this until the room is filled with the energy of your choice.

Make note of your working in your Book of Shadows, as well as the reactions of your clients and self to the space.

A BOOK OF SHADOWS

When approaching psychic ability, it is helpful to think of it as an art form, for there are multiple ways of developing psychic intuition, just as there are a plethora of paths for creating art. We may learn techniques from others, but ultimately the formula in which we do so is our own, which is why it is so important for us to track our progress.

BOOK OF SHADOWS

A sacred journal used to track our psychic and spiritual development.

Unlike a journal that may contain entries regarding our personal, emotional experiences processed aloud through its pages, a Book of Shadows is more like a college notebook, containing processes and noteworthy facts. The term “Book of Shadows” has its roots in Witchcraft, referring to esoteric or hidden information— knowledge intended only for eyes that are capable of understanding. In many ways it is the most important book of knowledge we will ever possess, as it is personalized and dedicated to us!

HOW TO USE ANY HOLISTIC PRACTICE TO CREATE THE HAPPIEST VERSION OF OURSELVES TODAY

“…inside the integrative health and MBS community, there are hundreds of modalities, ancient and modern, to help you explore who you are and integrate and process your spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical information to create balance and an empowered life.”

When we talk about mind-body-spirit, what exactly does it mean? The mind-body-spirit connection implies communication between each aspect of ourselves. When we cultivate this link in a conscious way, we can troubleshoot any imbalance that may arise. If you consider the mind, body, and spirit as different vibrations of your whole self, and ultimately, your personal frequency within the collective, it offers a new perspective. One with

About the Author: Tracee Dunblazier, GC-C, is a Los Angeles based spiritual empath, shaman, and 58-time international award-winning author/publisher at GTP. She is a multisensitive whose blend of intuitive information combined with different modalities, has provided others the opportunity to achieve deep healing and success. Tracee is President of the Coalition of Visionary Resources—the trade organization for MBS businesses. Her latest award-winning books and decks are Oracle of the InBetween, Transformative Grief, and Your Crystal Allies : 44 Sacred altar Cards & Oracle Set. Tracee’s podcasts include CHAT-Cast, Be A Slayer, and The Decoders with celebrity psychic medium, Karyn Reece.

which to shift or integrate any outdated “energy” you may carry. This is the essential philosophy of integrative health practices.

How Does the MindBody-Spirit Communicate?

Each layer of our energy body and its Chakras or energy centers have a specific vibrational language. For example, The Root Chakra is connected to our degree of groundedness and presence in our physical body. The Sacral and Solar Plexus Chakras align with the emotional body and how our

system processes feelings. The Heart Chakra connects the denser frequencies in the body with its higher vibrational understanding of the path we are on, and how to comprehend the spiritual imprints with which we are born. And, fi nally, the Throat and Third Eye Chakras align us with the metabolization of information we have that is being processed and disseminated to the other energy centers.

Within the energy body there are many Chakras that communicate on more intricate levels than the ones mentioned here, so inside the integrative health and MBS community there are hundreds of modalities, ancient and modern, to help you explore who you are and integrate and process your spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical information, so

that you may create balance and an empowered life.

Here Are a Few Modalities

You Can Use: Acupressure/acupuncture, massage therapy, spiritual integration techniques/ shadow work, self-care, journaling, psychological understanding, and emotional work – all to bring about the same result – healing your whole self.

The Perspective that Heart Brain Resonance Creates

New Spring Tarot and Oracle Decks from

When we consciously make a connection between the mental functions of our brain and ideas to our heart space, something magical happens. We begin to perceive through compassion. We are better able to see things as they are, without judgment, and find acceptance. The state of acceptance naturally opens our hearts and minds to new resolutions, concepts, or philosophies that generate new feelings and inspiration that inevitably lead to fresh actions we can take to move ourselves forward. To place an order or learn more, visit SchifferBooks.com or email Sales@SchifferBooks.com

Butterfly Wisdom Tarot: Guiding Wings for Your Journey (0764369237, $29.99)

Gaian Tarot: Healing the Earth, Healing Ourselves, 2nd Edition (0764368753, $34.99)

Boadicea’s Tarot of Earthly Delights (0764369083, $34.99)

The Magic Lantern Sibilla: Learn to Read the Vera Sibilla Oracle (0764368974, $39.99)

The Unifying Consciousness Tarot (0764369121, $34.99)

Take

a Moment to Try this Experiment:

Take four deep breaths and bring to mind something that has been weighing on you, or something you’d like to more deeply understand. Now, imagine that picture, thought, memory, or idea draining from your mind, down your throat, into your heart space.

Take another deep breath and wait…

Continue taking deep breaths until you see the new version of what you were thinking about.

Make a few notes in your journal: What idea or perspective did you begin with, and how did it change? In this new perspective, what are new actions you can take to find a resolution? Do you still need a completion?

The Difference Between Happiness and Joy

I often witness people who believe that their personal struggles cannot include feelings of happiness or joy. As if those feelings or ways of being cannot be in the same space as conflict. It is my experience that how we get through the most difficult parts of being human is to use the lens of joy or happiness to bring about the openness we need to move through the conflict or uncomfortable experience.

Joy is the feeling we get when we are empowered. When we give ourselves permission to continue to explore a path that is unknown to us, rather than move in a direction we know will not bring us what we want, we feel joy. We do not need to be fully successful in our goal to receive the feeling of empowerment. What we

"Our life doesn’t have to look good in the moment in order for us to experience happiness."

do need is a way forward. Joy is the emotion of connecting ourselves to this forward movement. When you call on the energy of joy, you activate your second and third energy centers which in turn set in motion your intent to create a new outcome for an old pattern or problem. Laughing is a wonderful way to call on the energy of joy and to catalyze a new intention.

Happiness is the lens or perspective we choose to address our day-today occurrences. Our life doesn’t have to look good in the moment in order for us to experience happiness. However, it is not uncommon for us to unconsciously stay in our perspective of grief, devastation, or disappointment because we want to be seen, or possibly

we do not want to forget what has happened so that it will not happen again, or because we are struggling to understand the changes that are being triggered in our lives.

One can be in grief and choose happiness. When we mix these two emotions together, we get joy, sarcasm, and gratitude—all vibrations of happiness in their own way—and perspectives that augment the ability to see the way forward in any situation.

Using Holistic Practices to Create Connection

The final and most powerful aspect of bridging your way to healing through integrative practices is the intent to do so. You can use any modality, on any vibrational level, to embody your intent to heal, resolve, and move forward. No matter where you start, whether it’s a new workout plan or seeking out your past lives, either will trigger your intent to heal. It will connect the path of information and processes to follow that will bring the most succinct road to your best health and well-being.

To set this intention, begin where you are. Take a moment to meditate on your level of self-honesty. Allow yourself to bring to mind your true feelings or any physical or mental symptoms that have been seeking your attention. Acknowledge that you are safe to receive them and then write them down. Once you are able to see things as they are, you can begin with what you feel is your biggest priority and use that as your intent for your next healing journey.

It is important to look for a modality that is interesting to you. Choose what you like. Other people’s opinions are fine, but your intuition is going to lead you on a path to the most joyful and empowering experience for you. Others in your life will never know you as well as you know yourself. Trust your instincts and follow them to the letter. Remember, your path to health is your own, and happiness is a lens you choose to awaken your higher vibrational senses to see new possibilities and opportunities just awaiting your interest.

Where the Industry Meets

For more than a century, the WESA Trade Show has remained at the forefront of the equine industry and takes pride in being the nation’s largest equine trade event. At the WESA Trade Show in Dallas, TX, retailers from across the globe connect with top brands and industry partners twice a year. Now is your time to prepare for the August 2025 WESA Trade Show and join us Where the Industry Meets

Expect even more opportunities for networking, discovering new products, and growing your retail presence on a global scale. Whether you’re a returning retailer or a fi rst-time attendee, the August WESA Trade Show is set to deliver unmatched experiences with high-value meetings and collaborations.

International interest continues to grow, making WESA not only a national but a global hub for retailers and brands. The momentum from our previous WESA Trade Show sets high expectations for August, where the industry will gather again to celebrate innovation, forge new partnerships, and set the tone for the year. Make sure to leverage WESA’s platform to stay connected and be part of the growing community defi ning the future of the Western and English equine markets. See you in August for another dynamic WESA Trade Show!

Visit www.WESATradeShow.com for more information and free badges.

Image Courtesy of WESA Trade Show

deckS

THE ART OF HOLISTIC PRACTICES

Immerse Customers in Ancient and

Contemporary Healing Modalities

From ancient times, humans have utilized music, plants, food and other tools to heal themselves and each other. Discover the healing sounds of drums from around the world, the tools from the woods and kitchens of witches, and the contemporary use of oils and crystals that ignite healing in all forms. These fresh decks vibrant with healing modalities will enrich the lives of your customers.

By Cecilia Lattari

Illustrated by Betti Gretto

U.S. Games Systems

50 Cards, 65 Page Booklet

ISBN: 9781646711482

About the Author: Melinda Carver is a Spiritual Business Expert and an awardwinning Author, Psychic Medium and Speaker. She has appeared on TV, radio, podcasts, corporate events, expos, and stores. She is the President of the Church of Radiant Lights located in Cleveland, OH. To know more, visit: www.MelindaCarver.com

$23.95

Step into the magical world of charms, talismans and potions of the Green, Hedge and Kitchen Witches of this enchanting deck. Gretto’s hand-drawn art is in shades of purple, green, orange and black, popping off of each card. Lattari’s booklet features guidance and short stories, Encourage herbalists and pagan customers to experience this appealing deck!

THE SECRET ORACLE OF THE GREEN WITCH

ESSENTIAL OILS & GEMSTONE GUARDIANS CARDS

By Margaret Ann Lembo

Findhorn Press

ISBN: 9781644115598

42 Cards, 160 Page Booklet

$19.99

Introducing aromatherapy with a matching crystal vibration, each card supports the seeker in amplifying their intentions for healing and manifesting. Full-color cards feature a crystal and guidance on one side, with the matching oil and affi rmation on the reverse side. Display this deck next to your crystals or oils products!

SPIRIT OF THE DRUM ORACLE

By Barbara Meiklejohn-Free and Flavia Kate Peters

Rockpool Publishing 36 cards, 136 Page Booklet

ISBN: 9781922786715

$24.95

Featuring marvelously drawn drums and scenes from worldwide cultures, the authors call forth the primordial beat to assist the seeker in feeling their way forward by using sound healing tempos. The book denotes the vibrations, incantations and guidance for each drum. Bang your drum to demonstrate this deck to Drumming Circle participants!

Retailing Insight Magazine is a bimonthly trade magazine specializing in the conscious living retail market. The magazine is published exclusively for qualified retailers and small independent businesses in the United States. Our mission is to share one on business advice, product reviews, advertisement from top sellers and makers in the industry, and exclusive topics to help business continue to thrive.

Editorial

Roberta Gazzarolle

Art Gisely Fernandes

Digital Media & Sales adsales@retailinginsight.com

Contributing Writers

Melinda Carver

Tracee Dunblazier

Jacki Smith

Kate Forsyth Salicrow

©2025 New Way Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. ISSN 2372-7977. Volume 39/ Issue 3/ May-June 2025. The magazine is published bimonthly/ six times a year (January, March, May, July, September, November) by New Way Publishing, LLC.

WWW.RETAILINGINSIGHT.COM

Retailing Insight Magazine is published by New Way Publishing, LLC. Charlotte, NC 28220 circ@retailinginsight.com