Spiritual Lounge E-Magazine April 2012

Issue : April 2012

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Vol : XXII

SPIRITUAL LOUNGE E-MAGAZINE

Spiritual Lounge Year of the ‘Consciousness in Motion’ 2012

April 2012

EDITORIAL

Dear Readers, Spiritual Stories are great way to explain a point or revel in its wisdom. It helps a person to understand and grasp the meanings or the message better. Stories could be of any kind, funny, spiritual, fable, mythology and so on.

Here is a short story for you to understand how stories can make an impact.

There was once a man, who desperately wanted to learn the art of walking on the surface of water. He spent years in penance and struggled great deal to obtain the knowledge required to walk on water. Finally, he achieved what he desired; he was able to walk on the surface of water as easily as he would do on land. He felt so elevated that he rushed to the Buddha who happen to be passing through and told him proudly of his achievements and how long it took him. Buddha smiled at him and said, “Is that all?” The man wondered why such an enlightened soul would say this. The Buddha explained, “Had you spent all that time and effort in trying to gain the ultimate knowledge, you would have been enlightened by now and all you did was waste it on gaining one piece of useless knowledge?” The man was obviously left dumbstruck.

Ancient Indian beliefs and spiritualism is replete with such stories. In fact almost every point is explained with a story or a comparison for better perception of its words. It is like explaining 'A' for 'Apple' to generate its true pronunciation/meaning.

I am a storyteller, are you one? If so, come share your stories here so others too may learn and grasp things better. This is also called 'Consciousness in Motion' the spiritual year of 2012. Come join in to spread awareness amongst all.

Join our Facebook group and like our page as well: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spirituallounge/ https://www.facebook.com/pages/Spiritual-Lounge/197029616975219 Connect with us anytime at: spirituallounge@live.com or +91-9619629092

Thank you,

Editor

editor@spirituallounge.com Cover page Photo: Wind Rose-Lisboa - PORTUGAL Copyrights: All rights reserved SPIRITUAL LOUNGE EMAGAZINE © 2010-2012

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April 2012

CONTENT

CONTENT Pet Batch - By Linzi Martin Page 4 - 6 Meditation and the Sub-Conscious Mind - By Dr. Amit Nagpal Page 7 CinemaHall - Remarkable-Women review- Corina Bardasuc Page 8 Curses Spells and More- Sheila Kennedy Page 9 - 10 Teleport me - Batty Alark Page 10 The Nature of Desire - By Myra Godfrey Page 11 - 12 Unlock Power Within Me - Betty Alark Page 12 We are what we think we are - By Mohit Soni Page 13 Understanding Profound Surrender - By Master Chrism Page 14 Kaleidoscope of Life - By Sushmita Page 15 - 17 My Path - By Dr. Abhijit Das Page 17 Essentiality of Equanimity in Life - By Rahul Zota Page 18 - 19 Book Corner - Remembering to Call forth Source Energy - Page 20 -21 Jiten Soni Thoughts Page 21 PORTUGAL - Compiled by Dhara Kothari Page 22 - 30

Edited by Dhara Kothari. Published by Moksa Publishers for Spiritual Lounge.

Designed by Biren Shah. Email: spirituallounge@live.com.

Cell: +91-9619629092 / +91-9757274289 3

Pet Bach - By Linzi Martin

April 2012

Introducing Bach Flower Remedies, the all-natural stress relief, as part of your Pet's First Aid repertory As humans we share this wonderful planet with so many other sentient being that I think it's important to also respect their holistic well-being. Animals have feelings, as anyone who serves as a pet companion or guardian knows only too well. We notice the differences in our friend's demeanor, their behavior, even their preferences for food/cuddles/walks etc.

They learn, feel and respond in individual ways to the world in which they live, like us. It is well known that happy and contented animals enjoy life and have fewer health problems, much the same as us humans.

Our companions have diverse personalities and so sometimes they may suffer emotionally from 'negative' feelings such as fear, loneliness, bereavement, over enthusiasm etc. Thus impacting on their behavior and physical-mental well-being.

They also share stresses in life, perhaps there has been a new 'one' join the flock/herd/household, or a birth has been painful and long, or they are hungry and there's no food around.

Our beloved companions clearly show us how they are feeling in both verbal and non-verbal communication; it's up to us to become familiar with their traits, body language and reactions to understand their needs. Communication is 20% expressed emotions and 80% need so what is their need behind the expressed feelings?

Some examples when a pet is out of sorts: · does not like to be left alone when you go out; · continual barking/meowing or other noises for no apparent reason (not health related); · looking 'sad' and dejected, staying away on their own in corners; · over enthusiastic, like they have been drinking excess caffeine stimulated; · wide eyed, in shock; · lethargic, lacking normal energy What can we give our companions to help regain their 'positive' balance?

I prefer to use natural, healthful products as far as possible, for myself and my companions. To help

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regain a positive emotional balance I use and recommend a range of natural, pure flower, plant and tree essences called the Bach Flower Remedies. I'm a qualified Bach Flower Remedy practitioner, trained in the UK, now living in Canada. In my experience I have found that just using a few drops of the selected remedies, orally and/or topically, will often bring soothing and calm to dogs, cats, rabbits, pigs, birds, horses, cows and all conscious creatures, without harmful side effects.

“Bach remedies help us to rediscover the positive side of ourselves, help us to live an emotionally healthy life.”

As I am not a professional Veterinary I am not legally allowed to diagnose or 'treat' any animal. However I can guide folk to what the positive potential for each remedy is, helping them to help themselves. The Bach (pronounced either as 'bacch' or like the composer) system of natural health was devised by Dr. Edward Bach in the 1930s in England. Bach was a very intuitive man, trained as a bacteriologist, a medical doctor and in homeopathy.

He treated many people and noticed that those with the same dis-ease often responded in different ways.

His enquiring mind and sensitivity led him to discover that various plants, flowers and trees had a positive/calming/soothing effect on the emotions and thus often an improvement in the health. The end result is a range of 38 essences that covers the whole range of emotions.

“So long as our soul and personality is in harmony all is joy and peace, happiness and health” Dr. Edward Bach (1886 – 1936) You may have come across Rescue Remedy, often cited as 'that amazing small bottle' used as a first aid measure at times of emergency and stress. That 'calmed me when I was in labor, when I was anxious before my medical test/dentist, after the accident I was in such a panic, my mind in a whirl until I took those few miracle drops and I felt myself again'.

Pet Bach - By Linzi Martin

April 2012

I have observed how well our pets respond to the Bach remedies, so I'm enthusiastic for people to be introduced to and use these inexpensive and safe first aids for themselves. Each remedy aids a specific emotional state. You can take them individually or mix them together to match the way you feel. And you may even find that your companion 'asks' for their bottle of remedies when they need them, reflecting the miracle of their sensitivity.

Here is a story that brings a tear to the eyes when you consider what might have been the outcome.

A story about how the Bach flower remedies help restore Amber's zest for life Christine was very concerned about Amber, her 13 year old Labrador, a much loved family pet, who until recently had seemed well in herself and still able to enjoy life, despite a degree of deafness and loss of sight. Having always been very clean indoors, she now seemed reluctant to leave the house to relieve herself but became so excited when family members or visitors entered the house that she lost control of her bladder and became distressed afterwards. Christine was anxious in case these might be indications that Amber's health was beginning to fail, but more worried that if she consulted her vet he would recommend that Amber be put to sleep simply because of her age and disabilities.

Christine found herself facing the same dilemma as many caring animal owners. How could she strike the proper balance between giving her pet every opportunity to enjoy life to the full and prevent its suffering unnecessarily? Christine decided to try flower remedies and asked Helen Graham's advice.

Helen recommended a combination of flower remedies for Amber: Aspen for her reluctance to go out of the house, a fear of unknown being.

Larch to promote her confidence.

Crab Apple to restore her dignity.

Christine was also advised to take Elm herself to help her deal with the situation and Cerato to help her trust her own judgment regarding Amber's condition.

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Two days later an exuberant Christine reported a remarkable change in Amber's well-being and also in her own feelings about the situation. Amber was now asking to go out regularly and she had been completely clean indoors. She also seemed to have regained much of her zest for life. Christine felt much more optimistic about Amber's condition and confident that she had not yet reached the situation where euthanasia needed to be considered. Many months later Amber was still enjoying life to the full and giving pleasure to her owners.

How different this story might have been if Amber had not been given flower remedies. At worst she might have been put to sleep prematurely, if only to prevent further distress and inconvenience to her owner. She might have been given various drugs in an attempt to control her incontinence; drugs with potentially undesirable side effects. In either event, the financial and emotional cost to her owner would have been considerable.

Source: Taken from Bach Flower Remedies for Animals by Helen Graham & Gregory Vlamis A happy ending for this cow story! Cow Calving and an orphan by using the magic drops A farmer had a cow that had lost her calf and also a calf that had lost its mother. The farmer tried all the usual farming tricks to put the cow and orphaned calf together but the cow kept kicking the calf away and the calf was becoming frightened.

Bach remedies for the cow's water: Beech, Red Chestnut, Walnut, Gentian and Star of Bethlehem [General key words for these remedies: intolerance, over protectiveness of others, adjustment to changed circumstances, shock].

For the calves water: Larch, Star of Bethlehem, Gentian, Aspen and Walnut [general key words for these remedies: confidence, shock, easily despondent, worries, unknown fears, adjustment to changed circumstances].

Within three hours the pair was together and the calf was happily suckling. The village now talks about the 'magic drops' and the farmer is going to use the remedies again when cows and calves are separated

Pet Bach - By Linzi Martin

April 2012

in the normal way.

Source: Sheila Elmer, Bach Foundation practitioner, UK Some examples to illustrate when a specific remedy might be considered: Fireworks or fear of loud noises: Suggested remedies: Mimulus – for fear of know things or situations.

Rock Rose – feelings of terror.

Star of Bethlehem – for really loud bangs, trauma, shock.

Rescue Remedy – general help-all in stressful moments (note: RR this is the only combination remedy that Dr. Bach originally devised).

Larch - to restore confidence so can deal with the change in circumstances.

Other situations where Bach remedies may be helpful: Your dog/cat suffers from travel sickness – Scleranthus.

Your bird becomes withdrawn or shy whenever a new person enters your home – Mimulus.

Suffered shock, distress, perhaps at the hands of a previous owner - Star of Bethlehem.

Lacks self-confidence, would rather avoid challenging situations such as competitions, or a puppy is submissive to an excessive degree – Larch.

A remedy that will help feelings of contamination associated with parasites or infected wounds – Crab Apple.

Cat has become very aloof and will not mix with the family - Water Violet.

Your old dog has not enjoyed moving house or has trouble adjusting to new changes within its life that is, pregnancy, and another animal into the property – Walnut.

Your pet follows you about all the time and gets under your feet – Chicory.

Your companion is too full of energy, over excited and highly strung – Vervain.

A pet dies and the owner continues to constantly recall 'how it used to be', only living in the past of memories and not allowing to grieve now – Honeysuckle, allows the owner to grieve but also to move onward. Both owner and family and other pets may also benefit from Star of Bethlehem to help the grieving process.

Dosage: 2 drops from each stock remedy bottle (4 drops for Rescue Remedy) into the drinking bowl.

Alternatively make up a spray bottle with this dilution. Or, for longer term treatment and practical

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application: put 2 drops of each stock remedy into a 30ml glass bottle with pipette. Top up with pure spring water. Use 4 drops from this diluted mixed bottle into the drinking bowl.

The above dosage can either be put into a drinking bowl administered minimum 4 x daily, or given directly above the tongue or on a small snack. It is not harmful if another animal drinks the water, the remedies will not affect those that do not require them. Nor can you overdose on the remedies.

Note (disclaimer): This is not an exhaustive list and very much depends on the individual animal's behavior, situation and health. I would also advise to seek the advice of a qualified veterinary practitioner and not take the Bach remedies in lieu of other medicines.

I hope that this article will inspire you to seek out the Bach flower remedies and use them to restore their emotional-mental balance. These essences will not change the inherent temperament of a particular breed or animal.

Linzi Martin is a Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner, a writer, educator, presenter and holistic therapist. Linzi is available for paid commissions for articles and contributions to publications as well as Bach remedy consultations via Skype and email (Skype: Sedona89, linzimartin1988@gmail.com). She regularly writes for Spiritual Lounge E-Magazine http://spirituallounge.whitedrums.com Resources: The Bach Centre, in the UK was the actual home of Dr. Edward Bach, is now the administrative center www.bachcentre.com www.nelsons.net Nelson's worldwide manufacturer North America www.nelsonsnaturalworld.com/enus/us/ Linzi Martin, Writer, Presenter, Educator How to live a simpler life www.feelgoodzone.com Business and Personal clients Facebook group: Clutter Clear 'n Organize www.facebook.com/groups/declutterers/ Twitter be a follower www.twitter.com/feelgoodzone Feelgoodzone LinkedIn connect http://ca.linkedin.com/in/linzimartin Linzi Martin YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/theFeelGoodZone

Meditation and the Sub-Conscious Mind - By Dr. Amit Nagpal

April 2012

Meditation and the Sub-Conscious Mind Why do most of the people start meditating to reduce stress rather than find joy? Does meditation have any benefits except stress management? Should we not meditate as a proactive measure to find joy and connect with our inner selves? Is there a scientific reason why people get inspirations and creative ideas during deep meditation? Has meditation got some relationship with the sub-conscious mind? These were some of the questions troubling me few years back and I began to search for answers.

The answers came from inside and outside. Inside means the inner voice which told me how I was getting transformed through meditation aided by shift in mindset. Outside means the scientific research which was validating my conclusions and experiences.

I started with the crudest form of meditation which is chanting. For two years the benefits were so inconspicuous and invisible that I hardly noticed the transformations. It was only after regular practice of chanting for one hour every day (along with clearing of negative energy and thoughts) for six months that my life was turned downside up and I became an advocate of meditation. Meditation had changed my life in every way possible.

Why was my lost creativity suddenly coming back or rather overflowing? Why were suddenly all the right people and circumstances coming in my life? I had too scientific a bent of mind and was now becoming balanced with faith in a higher power (or a supreme consciousness which was manifesting itself through all living beings). I began researching on the subconscious mind. I read 'The Secret' and found amazing similarities in it with Swami Sivananda's literature on the mind. Why did Buddha say, “The mind which sees the limitation is the limitation�?

There was something beyond the ordinary mind; call it sub-conscious, unconscious or the soul.

Spirituality and mind which seemed to be unrelated topics suddenly seemed to have a close connection.

When I came to know of Centre for Spirituality and Mind at University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, it jolted me further. How could I ignore such a simple thing that meditation calmed the mind and since meditation is a spiritual tool, spirituality had a close connection with the mind. I met diverse people from spiritual scientists to believers and many of them pointed out to interesting facts. Why did ancient church fund all the scientific research and discoveries? When did science and spirituality/religion diverge and became symbols of logic and faith or two opposing forces?

I was reading a book called 'Authentic Personal

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Branding' by Dr. Hubert Rampersad which talked of Theta waves and creative inspiration during meditation. It made me even more inquisitive. Then I came across several articles and images via Google which explained the types of brain waves and how Theta waves impacted the mind during meditation.

Though there were slight differences here and there, but there was a broad agreement.

(Image Source: thetahealing.co.za) Andrew Newberg, Director of the University of Pennsylvania's Center for Spirituality and the Mind, also talks of the mind-body connection in the movie 'What the Bleep Do We Know.' Studies at the center also looked at the brains of Tibetan Buddhists in meditation and Franciscan nuns in prayer. Both groups showed decreased activity in the parts of the brain (which deals with sense of self and spatial orientation, which also suggests the description of oneness with Supreme Consciousness sometimes experienced in meditation or prayer.

Prayer and meditation also increase levels of dopamine, often referred to as the brain's pleasure hormone. During meditation the conscious mind gets silent. As a result, we are able to hear the subconscious mind or we can say that the sub-conscious gets activated.

Then begins the sweet journey of creativity, joy, wisdom, intuition, awareness and in fact a point of ecstasy and oneness, where none of these matter.

Dr. Amit Nagpal amitknagpal@gmail.com

Cinema Hall

April 2012

A journey into women's spirituality- review of documentary Meetings with Remarkable Women spiritual path, whether male or female. Women viewers will find inspiration and strength they never encountered before, and energy to continue on a path that other women treaded before them. The men who watch this film will find an emotional honesty and gentleness of spirit that may be sorely needed on their own spiritual path.

Meetings with Remarkable Women touched me as a viewer on several emotional levels: I found myself swinging from compassion and sadness to awe and fearlessness, as the women exposed their souls to the camera. The texture and depth of the documentary is woven by the women's recounting of their lives and trials illustrated by snapshots from their past and clips of the places they came from. Director Shawn Nevins interlaces the women's stories with clips of poetry and meditative musical scores, and he does so with the gentle grace of a Celtic monk illustrating an illuminating manuscript.

In his effort to convey the women's determination, vulnerability and openness on their path, he offers the viewer more than a revealing encounter, but a genuine work of art.

At the end of the documentary I was left feeling not only emotionally inspired, but also feeling calm and renewed, as if I had just participated in a meditation session myself. The quality of silence, which is evoked by 'blank screen breaks' in-between the different story chapters, reflects a seeker's moments of silence upon the spiritual path, as well as giving us as viewers a break to contemplate what we have just seen.

This documentary is especially relevant to me, as young woman about to turn 30, still searching for the meaning of my life; embittered and hardened yet made vulnerable and broken open by personal trials and sorrows, I am more determined than ever to find 'the truth' on my spiritual path. At times I waiver, at times I give up. At times I shut down and never want to deal with the world again. But always, always I return, and persist on my path to find whatever it is that will make me 'complete.' Some of the remarkable women in this documentary have found it, and as such, they are invaluable resources and teachers to me.

They are, like the stars in the sky, distant and yet ever giving in their inspiration to those who follow them with anxious hopefulness from the darkness of the earth.

Meetings with Remarkable Woman are available at www.poetryinmotionfilms.com or visit Poetry in Motion Films on Facebook.

Also a short trailer of the movie is available at: http://www.poetryinmotionfilms.com/remarkable.htm

The documentary Meetings with Remarkable Women is an inspiring film by up and coming director/producer Shawn Nevins, who previously directed the spirituallythemed documentary Closer than Close.

Filmed in 2010 and 2011, Meetings with Remarkable Women explores the spiritual paths of five women from varied backgrounds: · Linda — an Australian spiritual teacher whose discipline of meditation led to a profound spiritual realization. · Anima — whose childhood in India steeped her in spiritual traditions, but it took a journey to America before she realized her true desire was to find enlightenment. · Jem — who lived the roles of wife, mother, engineer, musician, and writer before discovering Reiki and A Course in Miracles; paths that eventually led her to a spiritual awakening. · Heather — from Christian to Atheist, Buddhist to free-form seeker of selfknowledge wrestling with meditation, self-inquiry, and prayer. · Deborah — who, after the tragic loss of her husband, launched a years-long spiritual path through ancient Buddhist texts and the practice of Yoga that culminated in the discovery of a deep and lasting inner peace.

Each of these women tells of her life and how she came to be on a spiritual path, and what experiences brought her closer to the truth of her existence. What is truly 'remarkable' about these women is their willingness to practically experiment with different spiritual systems in order to find something that works for them. From meditation to poetry and writing, from yoga and music to self-inquiry, their methods are as varied as their personalities, and they inspire the viewer with their thirst for truth.

The most engaging aspect of the documentary is the women's honesty in their personal search, and their sense of experimenting with different techniques in order to approach an abstract concept such as 'enlightenment.'

How does one 'search' for an abstract concept with one's feelings? How does one send one's tentacles through the darkness, searching as if blind for something that is unseen? These questions are hard if not impossible for anyone to answer, yet the women in this documentary have managed to answer them for themselves.

The flow of the documentary takes on a meditative feel as the stories of each protagonist are connected by clips of a young woman reading poetry that reflects her spiritual longings and existential frustration. The feeling of honesty and sharing is pervasive through the entire film, and is an invaluable tool to anyone sincerely interested in a

By Corina Bardasuc

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Curses Spells and More - By Sheila Kennedy

April 2012

Curses Spells and More Some weeks ago I replied to a comment on web posted by another metaphysical practitioner.

'I have come across quite a few clients with spells or curses on them. I would be interested to hear how others remove these. Is there a safe easy way to do it?'

As a practitioner with considerable expertise in this field I replied to the comment. The responses themselves have been many and varied: from 'there is no such thing as a spell or a curse, and any one telling you that you have been cursed etc., is misleading you', through to the “I use sage/ incense, spirit guides, guardian angels, glyphs, incantations, magical ceremonies' and the like.

It is my belief that this is too big of a subject to cover in a short article and I am going to create a series of articles based on the different areas of the subject.

The articles will include Spells and Curses, Voodoo and Black Magic, Energetic Enslavement which covers, vows, contracts, bindings, shackles enforceable obligation and agreements.

Possession which may be seen as demonic and or entity possession, the evil eye and amulets, and Initiations Rituals and Assimilations all of which may 'bind' some one into a contract, agreement or the like from which there is difficulty releasing oneself or being released.

Spells A spell is a paranormal or magical formula, and may take the form of a spoken or written pronouncement intended to bring about a specific effect. The age old version of old crones mumbling over a fire as they stirred their cauldron, accompanied by a 'familiar', often a black cat seems to have gone by the wayside Spells come under a number of headings or categories and are offered on places such as the internet and in magazines under Black magic or Magick and White Magic spells: They cover the areas of health both, for and against, wealth, love, beauty enchantment and binding to name just a few. One site offers more than 6000 magical spells.

Many 'New Age' shops offer prettily packaged 'Spell Kits' for those who wish to 'do it for themselves', and moon rituals and candles are also

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well to the fore. You can however have the 'spells' cast for you, for a fee of course, and again the spells and fees are many and varied.

'Important - Please Read!

Casting a spell or creating a good luck piece is more of an art than science, and even the most gifted psychic will not be successful each time. Anyone who tells you otherwise is not being honest. This is why the California Astrology Association offers a one-year unconditional guarantee: If you're not completely satisfied, we'll refund your money.

Period! No questions asked.'

So once you have the 'spell' in place, just what can you expect?

Depending on what the spell was cast for, how it was cast, by who, and the recipient of the intention behind the spell the results can be many and varied. Often little harm will be done and the effects may not take or wear off within a short period of time. In other instances assistance may be sought to identify and remove the spell should it present as being an issue or a problem.

There are many people who profess to have the ability to remove such spells and incantations; I would however always recommend doing your research or homework and finding a suitable qualified practitioner as some issues are more difficult to deal with than others.

Curses Curses have been spoken of for many thousands of years: there are many ancient references to curses mentioned in old books across cultures.

'A curse (also called execration) is any expressed wish that some form of adversity or misfortune will befall or attach to some other entity, one or more persons, a place, or an object. In particular, 'curse' may refer to a wish that harm or hurt will be inflicted by any supernatural powers, such as a spell, a prayer, an imprecation, an execration, magic, witchcraft, God, a natural force, or a spirit.

In many belief systems, the curse itself (or accompanying ritual) is considered to have some causative force in the result'

April 2012

Curses Spells and More - By Sheila Kennedy

Some well-known curses include the Bjorketorp Runestone in Blekinge Sweden, dating back to the 6th century AD. It speaks of being plagued by: maleficence, doomed to insidious death, and a prophecy of destruction. The Hope Diamond dates back to 1642 and is famous for bringing misfortune to its owner who allegedly stole the diamond from the statue of the Hindu goddess Sita.

Tutankhamen's tomb is credited with the deaths of eleven people within a few years of it having been opened. Other curses go back to the European times of Vlad the Impaler, the son of Count Drac, who later became Bram Stoker's prototype for Count Dracula.

In more modern times, curses may appear as being passed down a family line, both backwards and forwards, and may be generational, ancestral, associated with a land, a place an object or a situation, race or creed.

Depending on the culture and type of curse how it needs to be dealt with and there are many people who profess to have the ability to remove such things as curses, I would however, always recommend doing your research or homework and find a suitable qualified practitioner as some issues are more difficult to deal with than others. Curses may also be 'booby trapped' and can back fire on the person removing them.

Rev Sheila Kennedy B.Msc sheila@soundsfromsource.com www.soundsfromsource.com www.soundsfromsourceacademy.com www.energeticbalanceandharmony.com Resources include: En.wikepedia.org/wiki/Spell www.calastrology.com www.spellsandmagic.com www.luckymojo.com http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curse www.themystica.com/mystica/articles/c/curses /htm listverse.com/2007/10/11/top-10-bizarre-curses

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Teleport Me Teleport me – dimensionally Ascend me to domains above!

Release the barrier of being earth bound My talents are hampered by the confines of supernatural conspiracy Teleport me - then transport me back With knowledge to veer the supernatural cracks!

Provide me with power to change the status quo – power to defeat the forces of the foe Teleport me – dimensionally Let me return with the key Let the key unlock the sea of darkness that abounds Let it disperse light all around The result is - the profound!

The dimensions above descend below Conspiracy no longer hinders Finally we are free!

Betty Alark

The Nature of Desire - By Myra Godfrey

April 2012

The Nature of Desire There is an old saying, “be careful what you wish for because you might get it!” When looking at this from a spiritual perspective, it can be changed to say “be careful what you wish for, because you will get it!” Whether in this lifetime or in a future one, all desires have to come to fruition, or be completely destroyed by the inner fire. For a person who is consciously walking on a spiritual path (any path), this becomes even more true, for your desires can come to manifest in this lifetime itself.

When a person is growing spiritually, closer to themselves and to their divine nature, it becomes easier to let go of frivolous desires and move into dharma. But to move into dharma, the old desires have to go somewhere! Let me use an example from my own life. In my late teens and early 20's when starting college, I found myself greatly respecting and admiring yoga teachers.

They seemed so balanced, calm and able to deal effectively with life and the world at large. This created a seed of desire that got stored in the subconscious, long after this little fantasy was forgotten. Nearly 12 years later, I found myself completing yoga teacher training and teaching my own yoga classes. By that point in my life, teaching yoga did not seem to be such a distant, unattainable thing. In fact what I had once put on a pedestal (having a daily yoga practice and helping others to use yoga for health and wellbeing) became a very basic part of my life that I did not think of at all, and in no way glamorized anymore. My desires and my aspirations had shifted greatly in that 12 year time span; that however did not change the fact that once upon a time, I had the deep attraction to and desire to be a yoga teacher.

The point in this is the importance of understanding the power of thought combined with emotion; this creates desires. Thought is very powerful; it's merely projection through the lens of the mind. What we think is like a prayer that we are asking to be fulfilled. When the emotions latch onto a thought, it no longer becomes merely a projection; it adds a density to it which brings the thought from a projection into a form. The emotion gives it shape and 11

structure, turning it into a seed of desire. This very tangible seed then needs to be dealt with when growing spiritually. When a seed of desire is created, it most often times gets stored in the subconscious mind and forgotten. The other option is to work with the desire consciously to manifest it, if it is a big enough desire. Third, desires can be burned away and destroyed in a person's inner fire. Think of all the small, passing desires a person has on a daily basis. If these desires do not come to pass immediately, they become stored for future expression. Once stored, it's very difficult to consciously burn these desires in the inner fire because you don't even remember you have created them.

The spiritual process acts to de-clutter the subconscious mind by purifying it. During this process, the stored desires (sometimes referred to as karmas or samskaras) come up to be expressed. Some will be expressed through coming to pass and others will be burned in the fire. Do you get to decide which come to pass and which get burned? Not really! Not unless you can remember every single desire you have ever had and consciously either bring it to fruition or burn it in the fire. Everything left in the subconscious will find its most appropriate avenue of release, either through expression or through being destroyed in the fire.

What does this mean on a practical level? First, everything you think about leaves an impression in the psyche. To understand this deeply shows one experientially the need to learn to silence the mind. A silent mind leads to a state of inner peace, because new desires are not being created, or needing to be expressed or burnt.

The process alone of silencing the mind is an effective tool to burn away many stored desires.

When a person is able to reach a deep enough state of meditation, this silence starts to penetrate deeply into the subconscious, destroying and writing over the previously made impressions.

Second, it shows how we are the creators of our lives and have free will to manifest those things we desire. Free will is an extremely powerful

The Nature of Desire - By Myra Godfrey

April 2012

thing. How could we not be a spark of God when we have free will to be anything we want to be, and are able to co-create our own destiny? It's absolutely amazing to think about!

This naturally begets a deep responsibility; happiness lies within our grasp, if we are willing to learn enough about ourselves to move in its direction!

Third, this demonstrates the power of emotions and feelings to cause attachment that keeps ones perceptions veiled by the senses. It's the emotional feeling combined with thought that creates a desire; without the emotional component, the desire would never be created.

Without the thought component, desire would never be created. Look and see how intricately everything is connected. This gives a very good entry for deep contemplation on the nature of desire and how to best curtail it in yourself.

About Myra: Myra Godfrey is a dynamic spiritual figure who has dedicated her life to helping mankind. She is the founder of both Gita for the Masses (a non-profit organization) and Hridaya Healing. Myra is a devotee of the Divine Mother and has received full diksha into the Tantric Sri Vidya lineage, as well as being an avid teacher of the Bhagavad-Gita.

She helps people to completely merge the spiritual and material realms of existence, seeing the Divine consciousness present everywhere. www.gitaforthemasses.org, www.hridayahealing.com © 2012 Myra Godfrey. All rights reserved.

UNLOCK THE POWER WITHIN ME Since the nature of desire is expression, this can also give further insight into the power of the manipura chakra and to fire element. If the desires we have are in alignment with our dharma, then moving further towards them is great. Not all desire is bad. Even the Bhagavad Gita refers to this when Krishna says “I am that desire that is not contrary to your dharma.” The key is in learning the nature of desire, what it is and how to work with it effectively to move you further towards your goals in life. When your desire is in alignment with your hearts deepest knowing, desire enables you to manifest your reason for being alive. It's only when desire gets mixed up with trivial things in life that it causes a problem.

By learning how to focus on the inner-Being, the divine Self that we all are at our core, desire will naturally start to come into alignment with the desires of the heart. When a person is not tuning in to the deepest part of the self, desires can run around and create life circumstances that do not benefit the Soul or its highest calling. Daily spiritual practice will help to train the mind and burn away old desires. Learn to tune into the love you carry deeply then nothing else will have the ability to sway you. Until then, desire is natural. Know yourself and you'll also know how to control your desire and work with your inner fire.

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I call forth the powers within me that lie dormant – awaken in me!

I call them forth from their sleep, slumbering in dormancy – awaken in me!

Actively kindled – I call them forth – awaken be active in me!

Slumber, no more – open that sealed door Take your place among me You are now free to reign within me!

Actively come forth within me – Be!

Betty Alark

We are what we think we are - By Mohit Soni

April 2012

We are what we think we are The title reminds me of a story. Once a man approached a sage with a question, 'How to be happy?' The sage said, 'The best way to be happy is to be happy.'

Simple as that! Just be happy to be happy. It may sound a little silly but that is the way it is.

Happiness is not something to be searched. It is something to be.

And how is it possible?

We have to understand a simple fact that happiness or pleasure are not possible to attain in this world. Who ever will go in search of it will only find that in turn he has only earned more grievances. It's paradoxical. But if we think more about it, eventually we will understand that it is actually right.

Once we achieve what we want to achieve, we will discover that there is still more to achieve and whatever achieved is too short to be qualified as happiness. We will start again for the next goal.

And again we might end up with the same feeling. One who understands and accepts that happiness and sadness are only two states which exist aptly only in the psychological frame of mind and vaguely defined in the opaque structure of reality, will certainly be happy with whatever he has attained till that time.

There is always more to 'a lot'. What qualifies as standard of happiness to us can be mere reflection of our insatiable want. Mind the word 'insatiable'. How can we be happy with more if we are not happy with what we have right now, knowing the fact that it's more than what we earlier had! We will keep on asking more after getting more.

So where to stop in this cycle? Here only. At this point only.

Just stop and look around. You may find each and every thing you need with you that is needed to live happily. No need to search beyond this.

Decide that you will greet everyone with a smile today. Decide that you will not think about what 13

you don't have but you will appreciate all that you have.

I'll give you a mantra. It's “Positive unconditional regard�. It's a medicine. It works for everyone who takes it and also for the person who gives it. Treat everyone with unconditional regard. Don't expect in return. And you will suddenly notice that no one is indebted to you for providing happiness. It's only you who has been sitting on the pile of it and restricted it by the weight of the expectations. Get up and stand aside.

A stone never gets sad. But also remember it never gets happy either. You don't need to be hard.

A foolish person may always be sure of his idea.

Because his intelligence falls too short to see the shortcomings of his idea! An intelligent person may always be doubtful of his idea. Because he knows there are more alternatives available to his idea. Both the people will suffer in the end.

The foolish because he will be overthrown by the opponents with better idea and intelligent because he may never present his idea in the first place because of the fear of others having better idea than him. It somewhat relates to our lives also. Sometimes we foolishly chase a plan to be happy and end up discovering that it has failed.

And sometimes we too intelligently leave a plan in-between, expecting it to fail only and then we discover that it was actually what we were looking for!

Try to be intelligent enough to have a plan to be happy and foolish enough to be happy with it without putting conditions on consequences.

Stay simple. Stay sure. Stay happy.

Mohit Soni.

Mob no.: +91 8130824151 Email id: mohit.soni97@rediffmail.com

Understanding Profound Surrender - By Master Chrism

April 2012

Understanding Profound Surrender This is crucial to the Kundalini awakening process. This will at times go against every societal taboo that we have been warned about and have come into agreement with not experiencing or expressing in regards to allowing ourselves to be vulnerable and exposed to.

Even more so when it is a teacher or another human person that is giving one the instruction to surrender.

We are not used to these levels of trust.

It isn't a common level of trust in our society and with good reason in my humble opinion. So many have been abused in these areas and we are correct to come into such an agreement with a strong degree of caution.

When Kundalini brings a teacher to an individual however this changes the dynamic as it is no longer a flesh person that is giving the instruction for surrender but a divine source which is doing so and in this circumstance I will suggest that a person come into the surrender with full immersion to the teachings and the instructions that are being given.

We surrender our life, our love, our body, our awareness, and our future to the divine within that is also without. We open ourselves to complete removal and re-organization of our thoughts and proclivities and understandings of life. We are no more who we have been and yet we are at the same time familiar to ourselves. We are not lost we are surrendered and in that placement are we given the deep and continuous transformation that reaches into our distant past of this time line of life and even further into other forms of distant pasts and lifetimes.

This is the sculpting of our soul in a 'conscious real time' that is far removed from the often blind education and balance of karmic thought and deed. We open and surrender our mind into the infinite by surrendering its ego element of control.

So we become seemingly helpless and exposed.

Yet within the arms of divinity we are safe within this exposure. For this to occur the deepest form of trust must be reached for and attained. A trust so powerful and those we give into so deeply and with such profound surrender that we become the naked child of innocence we were shortly after our birth.

Even if it is from a human source.

Kundalini will pick our teachers and our teachings. And no matter how strange or difficult or impossible they may seem to the ego we are advised to follow these teachings. The Divine knows you better than you know you and in that context we will need to surrender completely to the person or the teaching that is being given.

This surrender is profound.

It is profound in the depths of its reach into our soul and life and all of the people and dynamics that we are experiencing within this life. It is profound in its ability to transform us and open us into the consciousness of grace that propels our transformation.

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This is profound surrender and in this place do we dare to tread when Kundalini calls to us in our transformation.

Blessings all!

Master Chrism

Kaleidoscope of Life - By Sushmita

April 2012

Kaleidoscope of Life That is what life is!

But that life is a Kaleidoscope, can be realized only through sharing, as life is continuously sharing everything with us in the form of the varied colors of nature, of beings, of situations, of events and offers a Kaleidoscopic scope to one and all thus‌ That is why life is many things to many, and again many things to one and the same individual. The Kaleidoscopic nature is the infinite scope that life symbolizes infinite that life is, wherein nothing is singular. It is the apparent singularity that cradles plurality inherently. It is how life makes sense, as it is the essence of life. What else could be the proof, other than the mechanism of creation, and existential mechanism of the entire creation? Infinite, yet the origin is 'One', for all of Creation. The origin itself is plural, yet singular. Hence whole of life is that its plurality, that too infinite, forms the kaleidoscope of infinite dimension.

How the Kaleidoscope is viewed?

As to how we perceive life is dependent on our perception, which is dependent on the level of our consciousness. That is why life has a unique meaning for each one of us. For Shakespeare it was a stage; for scientists, life is a macrolaboratory; for philosophers, quite alike scientists, reason is of quintessence: is sought and provided for all that happens. The reason, as accessed by the philosopher becomes the philosophy. For psychologists each behavior has a reason rooted in, and routed to, the psyche.

For writers everything is beheld by, and in, words. Life is an expression (of self) for them, 15

through their writings, echoing their experiences and the impact of the same. And each has a unique expression, as each experience is unique. An experience cannot be copied nor can it be experienced by the other person nor can it be levied. It can only be shared and that it is, through the expression in the written form. As one expresses, one shares!

For painters, life in its entirety, is a canvas and yet at the same time a palette. Life is its own canvas and an array of infinite colors and hues; the palette, at the same time, to choose from and is chosen differently by different painters as also differently by the same painter, but at a different moment. Life is the color, it is the canvas and it is the artist, with it being 'one' with its all inhabitants that form the life and through whom, and which, life expresses itself.

Photographers capture the artist, the canvas, the palette that life is. How else one would experience the ecstasy, the riot of colors, the kaleidoscope, that life expresses in, and as, nature and offers to us? The colors, offered, by life are proffered to us by those who capture it through their lens and we are privileged to enjoy what our eyes could not, directly. They have their unique sense of angles and each is affected by the hues of nature in unique ways. And since the observed is affected by the observer, the 'shot' that comes off as the observation of a photographer, acts like 'shots' of feelings, differing as the photographer differs and with our very own differing response to the photographs.

And whatever be the response, it is made possible by this sharing. We share as we know at the core of our being that we are one, and, “That

Kaleidoscope of Life - By Sushmita

April 2012

which is 'mine' that of which I have had the first 'look' the first 'shot' is not only mine, but for all�, is the sentience. One is just a part of the whole, and plays a part, by sharing that part of life that one has been privileged to experience. As we all come forward with our experiences we realize the 'whole' that we are giving each other the scope to experience the 'wholesome' feeling of 'wholeness'.

As life is, so it chooses to express as the kaleidoscope‌ This sharing is an arcane, yet primal desire of one and all as is that of life. Life is for selfexpression. When choked, the suppression chokes the natural flow of life and its infinite colors, which then are under-developed.

Colors that form a Kaleidoscope Life's infinite shades include: colors resplendent in nature, colors in us (even we are different colors of creation), as various moods and feelings, which evokes responses of corresponding colors; and excludes nothing.

Some colors we define as dark some as bright with respect to moods. For life each color is beautiful and through nature it simply shares, fully, all the beautiful colors. It is polychromatic, neither dichromatic nor monochromatic. It shares without keeping anything for self as for it, what it shares, is, with its own self as it considers itself to be one with us.

Colors and Healing And when considered from the view-scope of energy, all colors are electromagnetic radiation, vibrations, vibrating at different frequencies, but all in the visible region. The VIBGYOR, the rainbow the spectrum of seven different colors are vibrations corresponding to different frequencies. In fact it is known that all seven colors are found in us, signified by the seven chakras each chakra having its own significance and function. A deficient functioning of any of the chakras causes a disease in the body. It is this malfunctioning, when detected, with respect to the chakra, is treated with the aid of Color Therapy (which in ancient times was referred to as by Surya Kiran Chikitsa or Solar Rays 16

Therapy), wherein the energy component in that particular chakra is balanced, which had been affected, by use of the color of corresponding energy.

This color of life, treating lives with colors to heal utilizes the therapeutic properties of colors and manifests further the infinite scope that life presents to us and all, for us to heal and be the healing for all.

Life and its Healing Colors Life is for healing quite contrary to the common beliefs. We are here, as the spiritual beings, on a human journey to resolve our pending issues, as we move through the eternity of life, with the Soul's sole intention to realize itself and experience its perfection, which it has at the origin.

And this healing is provided not only by colors but even by the metaphorical colors the varied expressions of life. When we are completely in resonance, within and without, we experience a light within enlightenment we call it. The color of enlightenment is the color of harmony as we harmonize, so we resonate and healed we are.

The Scope Life, as a Kaleidoscope provides us with infinite colors to choose from and choose the experience of our choice thus. The physical kaleidoscope, with a given set of colors, changes the view and experience, with a rotation and thus a change in the angle. Life too does that. And as in a life the given set of colors is infinite, the experience too is magnified as compared to the physical kaleidoscope. As our perception (the angle of our viewing) is, so is our experience.

With colors infinite, Life's Kaleidoscope provides infinite scope: of experience and materializations. As we evolve and revolve, the Kaleidoscope remains the same, yet the scopes modify and magnify and amplify. And the experience again is incomparable as is for the individual, who sees through the physical kaleidoscope. But the individual, as forms the part of the whole through the individual experiences, goes on to build a collective

Kaleidoscope of Life - By Sushmita

April 2012

experience, as co-creation, of life each coming forward with one's unique expression out of the unique experience.

Experiencing Life as a Kaleidoscope The only riot, that one expresses effusive with praise, appreciation, gratitude, happiness and excitement, is the 'riot of colors'. And when the colors of life too are perceived and appreciated in the same manner, we enjoy the Kaleidoscope of life and utilize it, by fully living through it living it as colors in harmony with one another, within and without.

But the fact that life is a Kaleidoscope, and Kaleidoscope of infinite potential too, is acknowledged only when one is able to experience one's own self one's reactions and responses all, as different, and as unique, as different colors of life.

That Kaleidoscope of life is a symbol, of singularity in plurality, is realized time and again. And the harmony between these pluralities allows the infinite colors to be enjoyed, experienced and realized, as infinite potential materialized. No color is perceived as dark, but as an essential component of the Kaleidoscope without which the Kaleidoscope would be incomplete and the effect compromised. But life is not for compromise rather it is a promise of realizing all the colors that life symbolizes and through this realization; realizes the primary objective of life to selfrealize, to heal self and be the color that heals all.

Email: philosopher.mukherjee@gmail.com Credit for Photo: Sumit Roy (sumitroyid@gmail.com)

MY PATH This path is arid It shows the way We move Towards a destination We do not know These footprints are mine One of many My footprint lost Amongst the many I leave this path To tread the woods – The path I made Was mine alone Misty eyed I thanked Him for the courage To pave my way To break away In this lonely self made path I found my most elegant dreams In my eyes I saw many who fear to be free The many whose elegant dreams are but lost Walking on the well trodden path That I walked on first‌.

Dr. Abhijit Das

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Essentiality of Equanimity in Life - Rahul Zota

April 2012

Essentiality of Equanimity in Life Jainism (not a religion but science) emphasizes great importance to the state of equanimity. In the state of equanimity, free from attachment and aversion one eradicates high amount of Karma particles bounded with the Soul. Usually one acts with attachment or aversion when one becomes happy or unhappy. One becomes happy when things are going according to his/her desire and one becomes unhappy when things are not going according to his/her desire. Now why things are not going according to someone's desire? To understand this we need to go through the Philosophy of Karma.

Every living being has a soul which has basic attributes like, Infinite Knowledge, Infinite Perception, Infinite Bliss and Infinite Energy.

There are two different types of energy working in this Universe; sentient and non-sentient. Nonsentient is explained in Physics and very well explained by the famous Einstein's Equivalence Principle. It is connected with Matter. On the other hand there exists another kind of energy which is Sentient Energy. Sentient energy is the basic attribute of a soul. The soul is independent substance in the cosmos which was never born and which will never vanish. There are infinite souls in the Universe. The souls can be categorized into two types; Liberated and Non-Liberated. The liberated souls are those who are free from the cycle of birth and death. The Non-Liberated are in bondage of Karma and thus goes through the cycle of birth, death and re-birth. However, from the Absolute Point of View (Nishchaya Naya) there is no difference between the mundane and liberated souls. They both possess the same qualities.

The mundane soul is clogged by the eight types of Karma. The four are destructive and the rest are non-destructive. The soul itself is the doer of its own action (From the absolute point of view it's pure but it does action because of misbelief or Mithyatva). The action created through mind, speech and body causes the Karma particles to stick to the soul's space points and thus the soul wanders in the cycle of birth and death and experiences suffering. There are two types of action; Inauspicious and Auspicious. Inauspicious action causes to accumulate inauspicious Karma which gives bitter fruits whenever they arise. Same way, auspicious action causes to accumulate

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auspicious Karma which gives sweet fruits whenever they arise. The cluster of karma particles is known as 'Karma Vargan' in Jin terminology.

Now, if one is ignorant about this philosophy then he/she reacts with either attachment or aversion at the time of the emergence of previously acquired Karma and thus binds even more Karma. Thus the bondage extends and as a result the soul suffers more in the never ending cycle of birth and rebirth.

The Omniscient have explained; to react with equanimity at the time of emergence of the previous Karma. The omniscient has explained not to act with attachment when good things are happening with us and aversion when bad things are happening with us. In the state of perfect equanimity one blocks the influx of fresh Karma and even eradicates previously acquired Karma.

This process of eradicating old Karma (in the state of equanimity) is so fast that one destroys much strong Karma in a few seconds that the other (who is ignorant and does austerities without practicing equanimity) can destroy in millions of years!

There is a beautiful story in Jain history which can help to better understand this!

In the times of the 22nd Tirthankar, Lord Neminath and Shri Krishna there lived a great monk named Dhandhan Muni. He was actually the son of Shri Krishna but he left his kingdom after hearing Lord Neminath's magnetic sermons. Since the time of his renunciation he faced difficult problems. Jin monks and nuns do not cook their food; do not get it prepared for them. They go to different householders and receive a little food from each house. For monk Dhandhan Muni, it was the rise of Benefit Obstructing Karma (Laabhantray Karma). Such type of Karma obstructs benefit whatever he/she gains. For Dhandhan Muni, this Karma obstructed the gaining of food.

Wherever he went he would not get food from the householders. The householders would close their doors whenever they would spot Dhandhan Muni approaching their door.

One day one of his colleagues asked Lord Neminath, “Dear Lord, why such a great monk is having problem for receiving his food? Why does he always return without any food? Why the householders of this great town of Dwarka are not

Essentiality of Equanimity in Life - Rahul Zota offering food to this monk who is the son of great King Vasudev (Lord Krishna)?”

The Omniscient Lord replied, “Oh monk, this is the emergence of the Benefit Obstructing Karma that blocks benefits of the food for monk Dhandhan. Everything, either good or bad happens because of our good or bad deeds. There is a reason, nothing happens without any reason.

In one of his previous births, monk Dhandhan was the minister of a King. His name was Parashar and he was ordered to keep an eye on farming. There were many farmers and cattle's working under him.

Once, during noon all the farmers took a break for their lunch. They all had worked hard and thus all were hungry. The farmers were taking their meal and the bulls and cows were eating grass. At that time, Parashar stopped them from eating and ordered them to plant seeds. The farmers were hungry so they asked Parashar to let them take their lunch first, but Parashar didn't even listen to them and ordered them to work for more hours. He said, “First you must plant more seeds in the farms, I will let you eat after the whole work is done.”

All the farmers, bulls and cows were hungry, they were not interested to pursue their work at that time but they had to accept the order, there was no other way. So they pursued their work without any interest. Thus by interrupting their meal, Parashar bounded Benefit Obstructing Karma and that karma has now come into action in the present birth. Thus he is not getting any food from any householders.”

By listening to the Lord, monk Dhandhan realized the truth and vowed that he will accept food only gained by his own effort. He will not accept food brought by other monks. Thus, since that time he would daily go to at the doors of the householders of the town of Dwarka and would return without any food. This lasted for six months. Monk Dhandhan had been observing fast since six months with ultimate equanimity.

He had realized his mistake and he was not showing any hatred toward the householders as he knew that he was responsible for all this.

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April 2012

One day while walking in the street he met his mundane father Shri Krishna. Krishna stepped down from the elephant and bowed before Dhandhan Muni and inquired about his life as a monk. When Shri Krishna went back, the nearby householder called Dhandhan Muni for alms.

The householder put some laddus (Indian sweet) in the monk's bowl. Dhandhan Muni thought this must be end of his Benefit Obstructing karma. So before eating and breaking his fast he went to Lord Neminath to confirm whether his Benefit Obstructing Karma had ceased. The Lord said, oh Dhandhan, your karma has not ceased yet, you received the food not because of your karma but because of Shri Krishna's karma. The householder thought you were a great monk that even the king like Shri Krishna bowed before him! So he called you and offered you this food.”

Upon hearing this fact from the Omniscient, Dhandhan started to think, “How strong karma I bound by obstructing other's meal in my previous life!” Thus he decided to forsake the alms (laddus). At the time of forsaking he performed strong equanimity. He didn't show any hate towards the householders, instead he found responsible himself behind this. Soon, at the time of forsaking laddus he entered Shukla Dhyan (Pure Meditation) and climbed the ladder of annihilation. In the second step of this meditation (Ekatva Vitark Savichar Shukla Dhyan) he destroyed not only the Benefit Obstructing Karma but also destroyed all the four destructing Karma attached to his soul. As all four karma shed away he became the Omniscient, the all-knowing, all perceiving Arihant.

This shows how one can destroy karma by practicing strong equanimity and can attain liberation. If we accept the fact that we are responsible behind our happiness and sorrow then we can attain the state of equanimity and ultimately the state of ultimate bliss.

Rahul Zota

Book Corner

April 2012

Remembering to Call forth Source Energy This passage is an excerpt from the last chapter of Linda J. Ferguson's newly released book, "Staying Grounded in Shifting Sand: Awakening Soul Consciousness for the New Millennium"

welcome Loving Divine Energy to pulse through me at this very moment. Divine Love is present today, as always, and expands my awareness and soul presence. I allow my true nature of Divine Essence to be fully expressed.

In the new era of understanding the Holy Oneness, our spiritual practice includes remembering we are not separate from Divine Creation. We are the hologram of Divine Essence. As soul beings we express Divine Essence naturally. It's only through social conditioning that many have forgotten. As you follow your awakened soul journey, it becomes easier to remember you are that expression of Love.

I release any judgments, fears, or animosity to those who are here to awaken me. When I meet others who act in ways that I don't like, I affirm we are all from the same Source. I ask for guidance and support to re-connect with them as a thread of the Holy Oneness.

Draw upon Spirit and bathe in the comfort of Love's grace daily. Doing so gives you strength and support to stay grounded in shifting sand.

Your tendency may be to run for cover or shut down emotionally during a crisis or when stressed. This only blocks Source Energy from coming through you. Affirming Divine Essence as your true nature raises your energy.

Greater flow of Source Energy supports your movement through challenges. Your life conditions then shift more easefully to greater harmony, balance, and peace. Remember you are Divine Essence as the acorn knows it's a mighty oak tree.

Source Energy is unlimited and accessible. It can neither be created nor destroyed. The key is in how you use it. Remind yourself in as many ways as necessary that you are a vessel for this Source Energy. Remember as well to call on your spirit guides, power animals, angels, or ancestors to support your journey.

Here is an affirmation to use as a daily reminder of your Divine Essence: I am a Divine Expression of pure Love. I allow and

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Mastery in the Aquarian Era Those who don't feel this Love pulling them, those who don't drink dawn like a cloud of spring water or take in sunset like supper, those who don't want to change, let them sleep. ~Rumi If you've felt inspired so far from this book on this earth planeremember or re-commit to your journey as a soul being. You are invited now to step fully into your personal power and personal mastery. You develop personal mastery by expanding yourself emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. Mastery in the Aquarian era involves the ability to understand your material, physical experiences and respond to them energetically. Mastery involves remembering that the energy that flows through you is from Source. Personal mastery in the Aquarian era entails living as a pure expression of Oneness with Source.

As we are learning from cutting edge research within Quantum physics, neurophysiology and other areas of science, the old paradigms for understanding the world are challenged, and need to be revised if not replaced. Studies in mind-body medicine have found that the physical body responds remarkably well to positive affirmations, visualizations, and healing energy. Studies of monks and others highly practiced in meditation have found that their thoughts can affect distant

Book Corner

April 2012

computers, and the thoughts of others sitting in meditation. No longer are cause and effect happening in a linear fashion in time and space. If you want to learn more about these studies, read Lynne McTaggart's fascinating books, 'The Field and The Intention Experiment'. No longer is this considered “new age mumbo-jumbo�, it is the current path for healing, communicating, and working. It is time to learn, practice and master the skills necessary to connect with Source for healing and wholeness around the globe.

When you understand how to function as a spiritual being in a physical world, you not only work through daily challenges more effectively, but you help shift the energy for others around you.

This paradigm shift is happening around the globe.

More synergy is created as each of us step more fully into the truth and beauty of who we are as soul beings. Many have been draw to greater mastery of spiritual skills for the Aquarian era.

As you master your energy you become more positively potent. You express your innate Divine Essence regularly with family, at work, with neighbors. Personal mastery involves the conscious awareness of being a Divine Expression.

Regardless of how challenging the circumstances are, you know you are an infinite radiant being working with abundant flow. You have your feet firmly planted on the ground and your heart fully open to Oneness.

Dr. Linda Ferguson is a seasoned facilitator and speaker. She provides spiritual life coaching, workshops, retreats, and webinars that support people living intentionally, finding greater inner peace, and connecting to their Source of Wisdom as they navigate daily life stresses. www.lindajferguson.com to read her blog posts, see inspiring videos, and download helpful handouts for your soul journey. Let Love PrevailFacebook page. Linda's books are available in paperback and as e-books: 10th Anniversary Edition - "Path for Greatness: Work as Spiritual Service" by Infinity Publishing, PA

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Jiten Soni's thoughts Three things once ceased takes you to humanity, they are ones which are tough to be ceased but it definitely needs to be ceased, they are Negativity, Anger and Egoism.

Some situations though they are not in control, you need to have faith and courage in you to bring it to control, you have to believe in you and still if those situations are out of control you have to say it to yourself 'WHO I AM - MAKES A DIFFERENCE'.

We started judging everyone by their mistakes than their actions, that's the world of today, we do not believe in what we say, than listen to others. Be as you are and remain always the same, that's when no one keep seeing your perfection and they remain to be with you forever in your life. https://www.facebook.com/page s/Jiten-Soni/168446966565745

PORTUGAL - Compiled by Dhara Kothari

April 2012

PORTUGAL Pioneers of Age of Discovery Portugal, officially the Portuguese Republic (Portuguese: República Portuguesa) is a country situated in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. Portugal is the westernmost country of Europe, and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the West and South and by Spain to the North and East. The Atlantic archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira are part of Portugal. The country is named after its second largest city, Porto, whose Latin name was Portus Cale.

It has continuously been settled since prehistoric times. Occupied by Celts integrated into the Roman Republic and later settled

by Germanic peoples. In the 8th century most of the Iberian Peninsula was conquered by Moorish invaders professing Islam, which were later expelled by the Knights Templar under the Order of Christ. During the Christian Reconquista, Portugal established itself as an independent kingdom from León in 1139, claiming to be the oldest European nation-state. In the 15th and 16th centuries, as the result of pioneering the Age of Discovery, Portugal expanded western influence and established a global empire that included possessions in Africa, Asia, Oceania, and South America, becoming the world's major economic, political and military global power. The Portuguese Empire was the first global empire in history and also the longest lived of the European colonial empires, spanning almost 600 years. Today, Portugal is one of the world's most globalized and peaceful nations.

Mainland Portugal is split by its main river, the Tagus that flows from Spain and disgorges in Tagus Estuary, near Lisbon, before escaping into the Atlantic. The northern landscape is mountainous towards the interior with several 22

plateaus indented by river valleys, whereas the south, that includes the Algarve and the Alentejo regions, is characterized by rolling plains.

Portugal's highest peak is the similarly named Mount Pico on the island of Pico in the Azores.

This ancient volcano, which measures 2,351 m (7,713 ft.) is a highly iconic symbol of the Azores, while the Serra da Estrela on the mainland (the summit being 1,991 m (6,532 ft.) above sea level) is an important seasonal attraction for skiers and winter sports enthusiasts. The archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores are scattered within the Atlantic Ocean: the Azores straddling the Mid-Atlantic Ridge on a tectonic triple junction, and Madeira along a range formed by in plate hotspot geology.

Geologically, these islands were formed by volcanic and seismic events.

Portugal is defined as a Mediterranean climate, Semi-arid climate or Steppe climate and is one of the warmest European countries: the annual average temperature in mainland Portugal varies from 12 °C (53.6 °F) in the mountainous interior north to over 18 °C (64.4 °F) in the south and on the Guadiana river basin. The Algarve, separated from the Alentejo region by mountains reaching up to 900 meters in Pico da Foia, has a climate similar to that of the southern coastal areas of Spain. Snowfalls occur regularly in the interior North and Center of the country.

In the south of the country snowfalls are rare but still occur in the highest elevations. Both the archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira have a subtropical climate, although variations between islands exist, making weather predictions very difficult.

Owing to humans occupying the territory of

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April 2012 230 deputies elected for a four-year term. The government, whose head is the Prime Minister chooses a Council of Ministers that, comprises the Ministers and State Secretaries. The courts are organized into several levels; judicial, administrative, and fiscal branches. The Supreme Courts are institutions of last resort/appeal. A thirteen-member Constitutional Court oversees the constitutionality of the laws. Portugal operates a multi-party system of competitive legislatures/local administrative governments at the national, regional and local-levels.

Portugal for thousands of years, little is left of the original vegetation. Protected areas of Portugal include one national park, twelve natural parks, nine natural reserves, five natural monuments, and seven protected landscapes. These natural environments are shaped by diverse flora, and include widespread species of pine, the chestnut, the cork-oak, the holm oak, the Portuguese oak and eucalyptus.

Portugal has been a democratic republic since the ratification of the Constitution of 1976, with Lisbon, the nation's largest city, as its capital.

The constitution grants the division, or separation, of powers among legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The four main institutions as described in this constitution are the President of the Republic, the Parliament, the Government, headed by a Prime Minister, and the courts. The President, who is elected to a five-year term, has a supervisory non-executive role. The Parliament is a chamber composed of

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Portuguese universities have existed since 1290.

The oldest Portuguese university was first

established in Lisbon before moving to Coimbra.

Historically, within the scope of the Portuguese Empire, the Portuguese founded in 1792 the oldest engineering school of Latin America, as well as the oldest medical college of Asia (the Escola MĂŠdico-CirĂşrgica de Goa) in 1842. The largest university in Portugal is the University of Porto. Total adult literacy rate is 99%.

Portuguese primary school enrollments are close to 100%. Portuguese is the official language of Portugal. Portuguese is a Romance language that originated in what is now Galicia (Spain) and Northern Portugal, from the GalicianPortuguese language. It is derived from the Latin spoken by the Romanized Pre-Roman peoples of the Iberian Peninsula around 2000 years ago.

Portugal has the right mix of nature, peaceful atmosphere and scenic locations that give one the privacy to meditate and self-contemplate.

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Spirituality also plays a large part amongst the native although it leans towards its religions.

Nevertheless, it is an ideal place for true spiritual growth.

Places to see Porto E Norte or Northern Portugal It was in Porto and the north that Portugal came into being as a country, which is why the region has such a rich and fascinating heritage. This is a mountainous area with rivers, natural parks and steep, sloping hillsides covered with leafy vegetation. History surrounds you when you visit the region's castles; the castle at Guimar達es

was the birthplace of the nation's founder and first king, Dom Afonso Henriques. And at the countless manor houses and palaces emblazoned with coats of arms, visitors are received with an aristocratic display of hospitality. However, this region also owes much of its character to the great waterway that cuts it in half, the scenic River Douro, whose vine-filled valley is today classified as a world heritage site.

The river was given the name of ouro (gold) because it brings the water that the sundrenched vines rely on to produce the worldfamous Port wine. But also because this was the place from which ships used to set sail in the great period of Portuguese discovery. Much of its heritage is based on shipping and trade, making it a bustling and passionate city. Porto is also classified as world heritage site. Porto is a busy industrial and commercial center. Porto's 24

geography is hard on the feet, but pleasant to the eye. The city is extremely hilly, with many buildings built into a cliff face that overlooks the river. Stairs cut into the stone run up and down the cliff face and offer a laborious but rewarding walking tour.

The World Heritage Douro valley is a captivating destination for couples. In Pinh達o, enjoy the warm nostalgia conjured up by the fine tiles decorating the station. On the south bank, head into a landscape defined by rocky bluffs and the force of nature. With the most imposing views out over the river, the S. Salvador do Mundo viewpoint is a place for festivity and romance.

During the annual festival, girls seeking husbands tie knots in the woadwaxen lining local paths to ensure their beloved find their way into their arms. Between Mesao Frio and Pinhao lies the stretch where the valley sides are lined with terraced vineyards that produce the famous Port wine. But this region is famous for other things

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besides the wine that is made nowhere else in the world. Signs of prehistoric men are seen in the ancient cave paintings in Vila Nova de Foz Coa. What was once one of the most flourishing Roman cities on the Iberian Peninsula, Chaves!

It was known as Aquae Flaviae to the centurions because of the medicinal properties of its waters that spring forth. Bragança has its share of stories of bitter royal love matches and adultery.

Bragança is a lively and welcoming city.

Experience its charm walking the streets and encountering the palaces of its former nobility.

Vila do Conde is the place of ancient medieval shipyard and this town is also famous for its manufactured lace.

Centro De Portugal or North Central Portugal In the Centro de Portugal you will find a huge variety of nature, history and culture. First there

April 2012 are glacial lakes, spring waters and all kinds of outdoor sports: on land, in the sky or on water.

The Serra da Estrela Natural Park is worth a visit because it boasts clear spring waters at the sources of the rivers ZĂŞzere and Mondego. In the Centro de Portugal, where you will also find opportunities for canoeing and rafting, rockclimbing, abseiling and many other adventure sports. And be sure to spend some time on the Atlantic coastline with its white sand and high waves. Also in the Centro de Portugal is Coimbra, where Portugal's oldest university is to be found, with its fabulous baroque library. The region is filled with the history of fierce battles and stories of Portugal's roots before it became a nation. Get to know the historic villages such as Monsanto.

Get to know the cities too, such as Guarda or Viseu, dominated by the traditional stone architecture of Centro de Portugal.

The Centro de Portugal was favored by the Romans for the purity of its waters and it was here that they built spas for the treatment of bodily and spiritual ailments. Round off your health and beauty treatment with the peace and quiet offered by the green countryside and the mountains. Or take to the water again, this time canoeing or rafting down the rivers or see the border paths on a balloon trip. Aveiro, on the mouth of the Vouga, charms with the colors of its estuary and seaweed gathering boats successfully contrasting with its university complex, a fine example of contemporary Portuguese architecture. In Viseu, the austerity

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of the stone impresses you. Castelo Branco is to be found heading south. With a flatter and richer landscape, the Tagus lies just beyond. Belmonte is famous for being the birthplace of Pedro Alvares Cabral, the man who in 1500 discovered Brazil.

Lisboa Region Lisbon was founded over 20 centuries ago.

Lisbon, Portugal's bright capital spreads along the north bank of the River Tagus, which meets the ocean here. One of the few European capitals with both a river and a coastline. Lisbon is built on seven hills. Lisbon has Praça do ComÊrcio

square as its main meeting area. Lisbon is also at the center of a region rich in diversity. Just outside the city are the seaside resort of Estoril and the romantic hills of the Serra de Sintra, where the perfect bond between palaces and nature led to the area being classified as a world heritage site.

Sintra is both a town and a municipality in the Lisbon Coast. It houses a Royal Palace, used by generations of Portuguese royalty prior to the 1910 revolution. Near Estoril, the majestic Sintra Mountains cast a veil of mystery over the town nestling on its northern slopes.

Alentejo Golden plains that disappear out of sight combine with the sun and the heat to impose

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their own slow, steady rhythm. This is the Alentejo. Inland, the vast golden wheat fields undulate in the wind; along the coast, un-spoilt beaches look rugged and unexplored. In the Alentejo, the brute force of the land dictates the march of time. Perhaps this is why the region's culture has its own particular character. All you need to do is visit Évora and discover its Roman roots. Here the time passes slowly, because the Alentejo follows the rhythm of the land itself.

Two thousand years ago the territory that would later be Portugal was part of the Roman Empire.

This source of the language and culture left many records in the Alentejo, written on stone and mosaics, cisterns and forums, in vanished cities and on old monuments. Other civilizations, older and less well known, covered the region with impressive megalithic monuments, majestic and mysterious in their simplicity, erected in honor of unknown gods. These

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remnants from the past, challenges to our imagination are all around you in the Alentejo, offering a real journey in time. Discover the towns of Pisões and São Cucufate, where the inhabitants lived in luxury, with hot baths and cool pools amid the heat of the plain. Pay a visit to Castro da Cola, whose riches transport you to the life of its ancestors, from the Neolithic Age, see around the antas, or Iron or Bronze Age settlements, set in fertile land traversed by the River Mira. You can tour the region on horseback or mountain bike, go canoeing on the rivers or go skydiving. From Tróia to Sines the coast is a continuous stretch of golden sand, with pleasant beaches such as those of Galé, Melides and Santo André.

Algarve Portugal's southernmost coastline, where the sea is warm and calm. The Algarve is Portugal's most popular holiday destination due to the

April 2012 clean beaches (approximately 200 km of them), the cool, unpolluted water, and the facts that it is relatively cheap, very safe and overall welcoming. The Algarve is rich in culture and diversity. In Cabo de S. Vicente, discover a land that was once thought of as the 'end of the world'.

It was in Sagres that the epic maritime adventures of the Portuguese began under the command of Prince Henry the Navigator. Here you can enjoy a fantastic view over the Atlantic Ocean from the headland. At the Fortaleza do Infante, take a look at the immense wind compass (43 meters wide), and visit the Capela da Nossa Senhora da Graça. In the valley of the Serra de Monchique, you'll find a delightful little

spa surrounded by green countryside.

Thalassotherapy centers and thermal spas can be found in exclusive coastal resorts in the Algarve. Using nutrients and minerals from the sea, these beauty centers will guarantee your relaxation and tranquility.

Madeira Islands Known worldwide as the Islands of eternal spring, Madeira or Ilha Jardim or the Garden Island has a mild climate throughout the entire year. Madeira is a tropical island. The Laurisilva Forest, in the Madeira Natural Park, is the largest evergreen forest in the world. Despite its small size, Madeira has a wealth of majestic and unusually beautiful scenery. Rent a car and set off to discover the charms and hidden corners of this floating garden! Those in search of excitement can climb up to the mountain peaks

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of Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo where they can walk above the clouds and look down at the island below. At Porto Moniz, you can replenish your energies by taking a refreshing dip in the famous swimming pools that are formed naturally amidst the rocks. Temples dedicated to health and beauty, equipped with the most modern and specialized facilities, and offering traditional and oriental techniques, yoga and hydro-gymnastics classes, to name only a few of the options from which to choose. If you continue on to Sao Vicente, you will be dazzled by the beauty of the road along the ocean, driving along abysses, tunnels and waterfalls.

Azores The Azores are nine different islands of adventure, nine delightful surprises. You can see dolphins and whales frolicking in the sea or volcanic landscapes covered in green. Then there are the stunning, lilac-colored hydrangeas that provide hedges for the meadows; the blue and green lakes; the craters of extinct volcanoes and the steam rising from the land. The volcanic activity here means that you can even have your meal cooked under the ground! Lagoa das Furnas, an active caldera with steam vents, mud pots and geysers, locals cook food in earth ovens available in picnic areas.

Just two and half hours by boat (or if you prefer a mere 15 minutes by air from Madeira) is one of Europe's most attractive island paradises - Porto Santo! Surrounded by scenery that varies from kilometers of un-spoilt beaches to the deep blue of the calm, warm sea, this small island is the ideal spot to escape from everyday stress. Take the opportunity to try a de-stressing treatment at the new Thalassotherapy Centre. If you are looking for a more active way to relax, the island offers a wide choice of outdoor activities, such as, boat trips, diving, windsurfing, water-skiing, mountain biking or paragliding. Health and well-being go hand in hand on this splendid beach with its clear water and its soft, fine sand endowed with healing properties. Discover the therapeutic benefits of this serene and inviting beach and let yourself relax as you recover your much-needed energy.

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Try your hand at diving and discover underwater caves, shipwrecks or the colored shoals of fish off S. Miguel, Terceira, S. Jorge, Pico and Graciosa.

For caving enthusiasts, various islands provide fascinating rock formations to explore, complete

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April 2012 sufficient means of financial support to return.

with unique volcanic flora. Over the years, the action of the sea has worn away the hard lava that forms the island's coastal area to create natural bridges and arches, the most interesting of these being situated in Velas and on the Santo Amaro fajĂŁ. Considered one of the world's most beautiful volcanoes, Pico, when seen from afar, looks easy to climb and therefore presents an obvious challenge to many visitors to the island.

Altogether, the ascent and descent of the mountain will take 4 to 5 hours, allowing you to appreciate natural phenomena and landscapes of rare beauty. Furna is a hollow inside the cone of the volcano, covered by thick endemic vegetation, which becomes scarcer and scarcer until it disappears at an altitude of roughly 2000 meters. The central crater or Pico Grande, roughly 700 meters in diameter, is truly majestic. From inside this, there springs the Piquinho, a volcanic cone that rises some 50 meters above the edge of the crater, with three or four fumaroles at the top. If there are no clouds, you can see the other islands of the central group.

In Caldeirao (enormous volcanic crater), there are two lakes with nine small islands, just like the archipelago.

Things to remember 1. To enter Portugal, you need a Passport and/or a Visa, depending on the country you live in.

Citizens from the European Community don't need a Visa for entering Portugal as per Schengen Agreement. Passports must be valid for up to six months. Although it is not obligatory to have a return ticket, it is advisable to have one because, if you don't, you may have to prove 29

2. All telephone numbers in Portugal are composed of nine digits. To call from abroad to Portugal, it is necessary to dial the international access code 00 and the country code 351. In public telephone booths, coins and special cards can be used. They are sold in Portugal Telecom shops, post offices and some kiosks and newsstands. Internet access is available on payment in some cafĂŠs and in numerous post offices that have the Netpost service. In various hotels and public facilities, there are duly marked Wi-Fi areas where it is possible to access wireless Internet.

3. Vehicles drive on the right in Portugal. Unless otherwise indicated, vehicles coming from the right have priority in squares and at intersections. Road signs comply with international rules. All occupants must wear seat belts. There are some highways in Portugal on which the tolls are electronic only. It means that there are no cabins and the passing of vehicles is detected by devices placed at the beginning of those highways. The highways are identified at the beginning with: Electronic toll only. In order for the vehicles to use the above mentioned highways, they should have an electronic device, which must be bought or hired beforehand at a service area alongside the highways or at a post office. Payment without electronic device: Purchase pre-paid ticket, which is valid for three days and may only be used for light vehicles, for several unlimited journeys only on electronic tolls. When hiring a car, please ask the hire company how payment is to be made regarding electronic tolls, as the car hiring company may charge their customers for their use of tolls.

4. The majority of Portuguese are Catholics, but the Portuguese Constitution guarantees religious freedom and there are a number of different religions in Portugal.

5. Portuguese is the main language in Portugal but there are lots of people who are able to communicate in English, French and Spanish.

6. Eating out is common practice in Portugal.

Having lunch or dinner out, especially at the

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weekend, is always a good excuse for meeting friends or going for a drive. There is a great variety of restaurants and they cater to all kinds of tastes and palates.

11. Since 1 January 2008, smoking has been prohibited in enclosed public spaces in Portugal.

7. Portugal is one of 17 European Union countries whose common official currency is the euro. Portugal has a national network of cash machines (ATMs) identified by the symbol MB (Multibanco), from which you can withdraw cash 24 hours a day. You can exchange money at banks, which are open from 8.30 a.m. to 3 p.m. five days a week; at bureaux de change; and at automatic currency exchange machines (these are for currency sale transactions only). In Portugal, the most commonly used credit cards are: Visa, American Express, Diners Club, Europay / MasterCard, JCB and Maestro.

12. Taxis are usually cream in color, although there are still some painted black with a green roof in the traditional Portuguese style. The fare is shown on the taximeter. The prices are affixed inside the car or you can ask the driver about them. If you phone for a taxi you have to pay an extra 0.80 euros. There is a charge of 1.60 euros for luggage, regardless of weight or the number of pieces. Carry cots, pushchairs, wheelchairs and walking aids are carried free of charge. Outside towns, taxis charge by the kilometer and the driver and passenger agree on the fare in advance.

Where they exist, the passenger has to pay the road tolls there and back. Tipping is at the passenger's discretion, though it is normal to tip 510% or round the amount up to the nearest euro.

8. Service is included in the bill in restaurants, though it is customary to leave an additional tip of about 510% of the total. It is also normal to tip taxi drivers 5-10 % or rounding up the amount paid to the nearest euro.

9. In general, pharmacies are open on weekdays between 9am and 7pm (some close for lunch from 1 to 3 p.m.) and on Saturdays between 9am and 1pm. They display an illuminated green cross outside when open at night. All of them have information posted on the door indicating the nearest pharmacies that are open at night.

10. Traditionally, shops are open from Monday to Friday, from 9 or 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Some close for lunch from 1 to 3 p.m. On Saturdays from January to November, shops generally close at 1 p.m. though in city centers some are open in the afternoon. There are plenty of shopping centers inside and outside the cities that are usually open from 10 a.m. to midnight every day of the week.

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13. Vegetarians may have a tough time in Portugal, at least in traditional Portuguese restaurants. Always check your bills after eating a meal, sometimes the restaurants brings an extra selection of snacks and then charge you a lot for the same. If you have kitchen facilities, Portuguese grocery stores are surprisingly well-stocked with items such as lentils, veggie burgers, couscous, and inexpensive fruits, vegetables, and cheeses.

14. Portuguese people feel a sincere happiness when helping tourists so don't feel ashamed to ask for help. If you make an effort to speak some Portuguese with the people there, it can go a long way. Don't be surprised if you came across women/girls holding hands or holding arms with each other, this is considered normal and a sign of friendship; it doesn't mean they are lesbians.