Please click onto each link to read the corresponding article.
Take responsibility for yourself, don't expect someone else to do it for you
Tools for Abundance
Sound Therapy
Past Life Regression Therapy
Signposts - A NEW AND EXCITING Transformational Energy System
Amazing dance system to improve your vitality, self-confidence, and joy of life
Colour-code your diet
All you need is a Miracle
Get Positive!
Learn to be more spiritual
Transcendental Meditation
Looking for Happiness?
Are your New Years Resolutions already slipping into oblivion!
Applied Kinesiology courses
Physician Heal Thyself
A nutritional and environmental approach to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Reflexology for Arthritis
A nutritional and environmental approach to delayed fertility
Eat Yourself Well
The Journey that lead to 'The Gift'
Angelic Reiki - The new healing for our time
Past Life Regression Therapy (PLRT)
Past Life Regression Therapy (PLRT) to give it its full title. Essentially, Past Life Regression is a process where you are guided into hypnosis and then encouraged to explore the details of a particular life or lives.
Whether you accept that this experience is the recollection of a real past life or not is immaterial. The great aspect about PLRT is that you do not have to change your beliefs, religion or idea of the world in order to gain benefits from this experience. Sometimes a present and persistent issue or problem that has not been resolved by other means, can yield to PLRT.
Many people are simply just curious to undergo a past life regression session to discover the diversity and detail of the life, or lives that they may recall. This is considered to be Past Life Regression for recreational purposes. Despite this, you can still gain more insight and a better understanding of the person you are today.
During the session, you will be helped to enter into a very pleasant state of relaxation in which you will be more able to access the memories/experiences that are important to your particular problem. There is no need to be afraid of this altered state of consciousness. You will be in control at all times, although you will be guided through the process. You will recall the experience afterwards. Everyone has a different experience. Some people have a total and vivid recall of a particular life, whereas for others, it will be the recall of a particular event or experience, and yet others will have recall of just fragments. Whatever it is, it will be special and relevant to you. A minority of clients may not have a regression experience the first time. This can be for a variety of reasons. Often, it can be because the client is too nervous, or too excited to relax properly. You might need to go through an initial relaxation session to allow you to become comfortable with the process. In any case, I try to take plenty of time with the relaxation and induction phase, to ensure that the client is guided gently into a deep state of relaxation that will facilitate the regression process.
Sometimes clients will worry about experiencing traumatic or upsetting events. These can happen, and are part of the therapeutic process. However, I would ensure that you did not become unduly distressed or upset, in this event.
In the final analysis, I do not control what the client experiences - that is personal to them. My job is to guide you through the process, to help you see what is there, and find what is relevant to you.
I do not put a time limit on a session, it takes as long as it takes. Typically, though a client could be with me for an hour and a half. Often, people need to talk about their experience afterwards, and I always encourage that, it is part of the therapeutic process. The fee for a session is £45. As to whether it is successful or not, well, this as I commented earlier, may be because the client needs to become more familiar and comfortable with the process of relaxation. In such a case, and this does not happen often, I would just enable them to experience the relaxation and induction phase on the first session, and charge a nominal amount for that familiarisation process. The second session would be a full regression, for the full fee. I usually write up a confidential report for the client afterwards, summarising what came up, and trying to see how it may relate to their present life.
In addition, I also practise Hypnotherapy. I am also a Tera Mai Reiki Master, and an experienced Dowser.
Please contact Paul Tromans, Wolverhampton, West Midlands
Tel: 01902 764368
Email: dpaul.t@hotmail.co.uk
Signposts - A NEW AND EXCITING
Transformational Energy System
A spiritual person has a conscious awareness of both the physical and the non-physical dimensions, knowing that beyond the five senses there are other senses we can use to experience the world, and knowing that he / she is never alone in the universe. It is someone who is comfortable with the idea that we are souls with bodies, not bodies with souls, and therefore believes that the Higher Self, the eternal part of ourselves, is always available for guidance and help.
THE HIGHER SELF
The Higher self is the part of us at the centre of our being, the part that cannot be destroyed. It is also called The Essential Self, The Inner Self, The True Self, The Soul.
This system is not here to do the hard work for us, but to support and guide us on the way. However, there is no substitute for common sense, no matter how high the ideals. The message is always good ! Any rituals are just to keep you mindful of the moment.
Signs of spiritual progress:
- You become less serious and you begin to experience more synchronicity
- You are who you are, understand it, accept, it and do not try to change it
- You do not look at why, but what is so
- You know that friendship and love have a basis in the acceptance of people as they are
- You avoid at all costs: should, could, would, wish, might. There is no inner authority here. Truth comes from within yourself
'The only constant thing is change' in your internal environment as well as your external one. The extremes themselves have no power - the power is in between the polarities, moving in spirals between balance and wholeness. Humans are inherently mutative as a species. If you expect the environment to take responsibility for you, you will encounter pain.
There is a saying that real life is what happens to us while we're planning other things. Somewhere along the journey we allow ourselves to be hi-jacked, either by circumstances or other people, into going in a different direction, and then, once we realise we're lost, have to spend the rest of our lives trying to 'find ourselves' again. We don't have to look far - the real self is there all the time under the mask of defence mechanisms and conditioning we have manufactured over the years to avoid being hurt or seen to be 'different'.
The basis of being human is to be invited to respond as yourself in the now. Changing is not up to you - it is about non-interference in your own process. It is simply a potential that exists in your own genetic possibilities. You cannot go and get initiation or go and find awakening - but you can be fooled into thinking it is a possibility, and that you have found these things.
THE CARDS
SIGNPOSTS is a three-tier system. There is a SOLAR, LUNAR & STELLAR pack, each designed for the purpose of guidance for a particular part of the journey. A journey to be undertaken is a distance to travel, a pilgrimage, a sacred obligation or trial of faith, towards self-transformation. This involves slow growth through many shifts and changes.
As you travel this cycle of perpetual renewal, you become conscious of the essence of your personal myth, and integrate new energies and flow into whole ness. A Pilgrim is a wanderer with a purpose - Know thyself.
If used on a regular basis, the Signpost system will provide you with guidance on the journey. We all have our own unique 'inner landscape', where we can liberate our inner guides and keepers via our own imagery. To locate your inner power, look at this landscape and see how you move through the environment and take note of who or what is there.
If you keep walking this landscape and singing its song, it will go on existing and become enriched as your own tribal message. Do not focus on dysfunction, but pour good energy into it, & this will animate your landscape with your personal message.
The way permeates, supports, moves and changes everything in the world, seen & unseen. Different times require different approaches - you may have to wait a while on the way , or hurry the journey along in places, or just enjoy the scenery.
For further information, please contact
Ros Taylor at Frog Hall, St John's Chapel, Weardale, Co. Durham. DL13 1RF
TELEPHONE: 01388 537534
e-mail: ros-froghall@tiscali.co.uk
Biodanza Dance
by Altair de Almeida
To me, self-transformation means becoming more authentic and truer to my real character (as opposed to living a persona created by my parents and other early influences). As a result of my difficult childhood, I was propelled into my journey of self-transformation from the age of nineteen, some thirty-three years ago. During this time I have explored many different avenues, some of which were very powerful for me and others less so.
The first I'd heard of Biodanza was through a very enticing interview I'd read. It was about the creator of Biodanza, Rolando Toro. He started to create Biodanza in the early 1960's as a response to what he called 'the profound darkness that I witnessed during the Second World War'. A professor of Medicine at the Centre of Medical Anthropology in Chile and a Psychologist, Toro was researching for educational ways through which the Human race could be helped to move forward.
I went to my first class in 1999 and was astounded! I couldn't believe that people, particularly in England, with a reputation for being stiff upper lipped, could be so emotionally 'open' and able to express tenderness, compassion, love and joy publicly. It resonated with something deep in my core and I immediately knew that I wanted to delve into this system, because it would enable me to express myself more honestly and profoundly.
What really grabbed me was that Biodanza combined three of my passions:
Self-transformation, music and dance. I immediately enrolled for the teacher training.
Having previously trained as an Acupuncturist, Shiatsu practitioner/teacher and Tai Chi / Qigong teacher I was aware that powerful as those systems are, none engage the individual as much as Biodanza, with the pure joy of expressing our care, tenderness and love for other human beings.
In our society we play safe by expressing ourselves deeply only in our intimate relationships - with our spouses or children, often not very well.
Wilhelm Reich, one of the pioneers of Humanistic Psychology, proposed that every traumatic incident, especially in early childhood, for example being hit by your 'loving parent' etc. is 're-membered' in the muscles and tissues of the body. He called it 'body armour'. The more difficult our childhood has been, the stronger is our body armour. It serves to protect by distancing ourselves from others. If these 'blocks' are not healed and dissolved they create dis-ease or being 'out of ease' within the mind, body and spirit.
Have you wondered why some people are often ill? There are no coincidences. When we choose to heal those parts of ourselves that had to 'split off' in order to survive mentally and emotionally, our lives become more full of passion, joy, love and peace. Instead of thinking one thing, feeling another and doing something else, we become more integrated, authentic and experience more freedom.
Instinctively, when I came across Biodanza, I realised that here at last I had found a system that can dissolve these blocks in a gentle way - through pleasure and enjoyment, as opposed to the often painful cathartic methods used in many psychotherapeutic models.
Biodanza, sometimes called the 'science of a party' uses an eclectic and vibrant mix of uplifting music - from tribal drums and hip swaying soul, to soothing classical music. Biodanza is about coming out of the head into the body. The evocative music is always carefully chosen to induce 'vivencia' or being fully Present in the Now. There are no steps to learn! We deepen the ability to share our feelings from our Heart, according to our individual capabilities. Nothing is forced; everything evolves at our own pace.
Biodanza uses a wide variety of simple movements. Some are slow, others quicker. There are free dances, shared dances, breathing and stretching exercises, to mention just a few. A great emphasis is made about 'listening' to our bodies, so as not to over-exert ourselves and about being in balance.
Biodanza needs to be experienced. Reading about it can only hint at its transformative power. However, research the world over proves that regular Biodanza sessions creates healthful transformation right down to cellular level.
The class is carefully planned by the facilitator to lead you into a pleasurable healing journey. As you deepen the process you gradually become authentic by safely revealing your real Self. The more authentic you become, the more you release behaviours that stop you from being and doing what you truly want to.
You gravitate towards work, relationships and people that enliven you. You let go of stuck patterns like working only because 'the money is good' or 'it's the done thing' etc. Stress is released the joyful way. Health blossoms!
Your ability to care for others and yourself improves. You will find it easier to express yourself. Your relationships improve at all levels. Self-confidence increases. You become more courageous. Your ability to set your boundaries strengthens. You can say 'No' when you need to, and 'Yes!' with passion, when you want to.
The first step to getting your feet, health and life moving purposefully forward is as simple as joining a Biodanza class! Go alone or take your friends along.
Let go of being 'stuck in a rut'!
Get Biodancing!
If you would like to find out when and where Biodanza is taking place please ring Altair 01684 562528
www.altairedstates.co.uk for more details
Colour Coding Your Diet
By Lauryn McGuiness
Food is not colourful by accident. There is a reason apples are red, carrots are orange and peas are green. Believe it or not, it is the colour of food that determines its beneficial qualities more so than the type.
We all know we need to eat certain amounts of fruits, vegetables, carbohydrates, dairies, and meat and legumes to maintain optimum health, but which of these foods is best to eat to target particular ailments or to feed a lack of a certain vitamin? By colour coding our diet, determining this has never been easier!
The pigmentation in food is created by a group of highly beneficial antioxidants called carotenoids, which eliminate harmful free radicals in the body. The particular colour of different types of foods indicates the unique job various antioxidants perform in the body. And, regardless of what colour a particular food is, the deeper the hue, the higher the nutrient value.
When we consume foods of one colour we ingest one type of vitamin or vitamins which target only one ailment or prevent one from occurring. However, when we consume foods of varying colours the mixture of antioxidants is most effective. And, it is better to eat a diet containing all the carotenoids rather than taking vitamin supplements, as supplements will never provide the same amount of protection as fresh food will.
The ideal combination of colours to look out for includes foods which are red, orange, yellow, blue/purple, and white. Consuming a mixture of foods of each of these colours on a daily basis, and at each meal, is strongly advised. We should aim to include green and orange foods as often as possible and try to eat a variety of foods representing each colour group so the body is ingesting everything it needs on a regular basis.
RED coloured foods indicate the presence of carotenoid lycopene, a cancer fighting antioxidant commonly found in foods such as tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit. Particularly effective in the battle against prostate cancer and cancers of the digestive tract, stomach, and lungs, lycopene works by inhibiting the formation of harmful LDL cholesterol. This fat-soluble substance is more readily available from cooked or juiced tomato, and can be absorbed more efficiently if eaten with some olive oil.
GREEN foods such as cabbage, spinach, bok-choy, broccoli, peas, artichokes, and asparagus contain isothiocyanates, which cause pre-cancerous cells to destroy themselves. Especially useful in the treatment of colon cancer, this anti-oxidant gives broccoli and Brussels sprouts their distinctive smell. But, don't be scared away. The more pungent the food, the more isothiocyanates present, and therefore the healthier it is for you. Also high in folic acid and sulforaphane, green foods can prevent birth defects such as spina bifida, so is an essential ingredient in the diet of any pregnant woman. The most chlorophyll-rich green foods are those which are leafy with a dark green hue.
ORANGE foods contain perhaps the most widely recognised carotenoid, beta-carotene. Found in foods such as carrots, oranges, mangoes, pumpkin, apricots, rockmelon, and sweet potato, this major antioxidant is known for its ability to lower cholesterol and convert it to Vitamin A. Also essential to the protection of the skin against free radical damage and the repair of damaged DNA, beta-carotene is an immune-booster aiding in the treatment of many ailments. Containing high levels of vitamin C, orange foods can assist in fighting colds and flu, cystitis, and skin problems, and eating the skins of orange foods is beneficial as they are nearly always packed with nutrients. Like lycopene, beta-carotene is fat soluble, so using a little olive oil will help your body absorb it.
YELLOW foods are very specific in their purpose. Targeted specifically at being effective in one area, yellow foods such as corn, bananas, honeydew melon, and yellow capsicum contain zeaxanthin and lutein. Working together to help maintain healthy eyesight, these two carotenoids are utilised in an area of the retina called the macula, the centre for excellent vision. Protecting the eyes from long-term light damage, zeaxanthin and lutein are required on a daily basis to maintain adequate eyesight protection. Eating yellow foods whilst young can ensure healthy eyesight is maintained through adulthood however, those with suffering vision will still benefit from the effects of eating yellow foods.
PURPLE and BLUE foods contain the carotenoid anthocyanin, which has remarkable antioxidant properties. Found in blueberries, dark cherries, prunes, blackcurrants, cranberries, red wine, red apples, strawberries and figs, the anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory effect of this antioxidant is useful for tackling urinary tract infections and gastrointestinal upsets. Purple or blue foods also help to prevent the deterioration of nerve cells in the brain, and can potentially assist in guarding against the effects of ageing. It is also suggested that anthocyanin might have beneficial effects on heart disease by inhibiting blood clots.
WHITE foods such as onions, garlic, celery, pears, white wine, and chives contain flavonoids and allicin, which has been known to inhibit abnormal cell growth. White foods also contain sulphur compounds which assist in raising levels of beneficial HDL cholesterol and lowering dangerous levels of blood fats called triglycerides. Another benefit of white foods is that they can ease the inflammatory response of asthma and can break up catarrh secretions caused by colds and flu.
'Lauryn McGuiness is a freelance journalist specialising in writing for the health and natural therapies markets. Published in 5 countries including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, Lauryn also provides writing and editing services to companies around the world.'
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All You Need is a Miracle!
By Nick Cooke
My brother in law Tom was in a mood even happier than his normal jovial self when he came to visit. His car had broken down earlier and he had managed to fix the problem himself. He asked me what I was doing on the computer and I explained that I was writing an article for "Health and Happiness" and what the subject of my article was. He was intrigued and I gave him a brief explanation.
"That's an amazing coincidence" Tom said, "You won't believe what happened to me yesterday!" Tom explained that he had been feeling depressed recently and had been trying to work out what to do about it. His doctor had offered him medication but he didn't want to go along that route.
He had been driving home from work when he noticed a poster for the National Lottery proclaiming that it was a 9 Million Pounds Rollover draw. Like a lot of people he began dreaming about what winning the jackpot could do for him. He said that it would certainly change his life and solve all his problems. He would have more fun in his life and feel less stressed about his job.
But then he told me something interesting -
Tom said "as I was driving along something amazing happened. I began thinking that maybe I didn't need a lottery win at all to achieve a lot of the changes I wanted in my life. I could take time to do more fun things with my family, I could exercise more and that would probably help me to reduce stress and it wouldn't take 9 Million Pounds to achieve that".
Although Tom didn't realize it he was answering The Miracle Question.
When people think about how a miracle could change their life they often forget to ask themselves - "how will 9 Million Pounds change my life?" We've all probably fantasised about it and wondered what we would do if we had all that money. Would we travel around the world? Would we have a luxurious villa abroad? Would we send our children to a private school? How about giving up work and living a life of luxury - owning a luxury car maybe?
Maybe it all sounds impossible - but stop right there. Begin asking why? Why do you want those things, what would they do for you and how would they make you feel? If you keep drilling down with the why? why? why? Questions you will begin to discover that the feelings you will get are achievable in some way or other.
Just supposing when you go to bed tonight, while you were asleep a miracle happens and all the problems in your life are solved. Because you are asleep you don't know a miracle is happening. When you wake in the morning what is the first sign for you that a miracle has happened. What is the first thing you see, hear or feel that tell you that all your problems have been solved? What is the next thing that tells you your problems have been solved? What is the next and the next and the next?.....
The Miracle Question (De Shazer 1988) is fundamental to the process of Brief Solution Focussed Therapy (BSFT), developed by Steve De Shazer and his wife Kim Isoo Berg. BSFT offers brief, effective approaches to change based upon the simple philosophy that by focusing on the solution rather than on the problem, we are more likely to achieve a successful outcome. BSFT teaches us to:
- Find what works and do more of it
- Stop doing what doesn't work and do something else
Hang on though, that sounds a bit too easy doesn't it?
Mind you, why shouldn't it work. Supposing you are suffering from anger - what is happening when you feel angry and what exactly does your anger feel like? What is happening when you don't feel angry and how can you do/achieve more of that? How can you experience less of the feelings that build up to your anger? Maybe if we adopt this simple approach things might just change!
Brief Solution Focussed Therapy shares its origins and development with Ericksonian Clinical Hypnosis and Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and like NLP offers some fundamental assumptions and principles:
- Change happens all the time. The therapist's, job is to help clients to identify and amplify useful change.
- There isn't any "right way" of looking at things. Look in other ways!
- A detailed understanding of the "problem" may be of little, if any, help in arriving at a solution.
- No "problem" happens all the time. What is going on when it is not happening?
- Clues to the solution are often to found right there is front of us - but we need to learn to recognise them.
- Even tiny changes in the right direction can be amplified to great effect.
- It is vital to stay solution focussed but we shouldn't allow ourselves to become solution forced!
Some of these ideas may seem a little unusual to many therapists. Focussing upon the problem and how it has occurred is at the root of many "traditional" psychotherapies.
We can use Brief Solution Focussed Therapy ourselves without the need of a therapist by carrying out the following steps:
1. Think about what the problem is
2. Immediately move on to thinking about the outcome we want (the solution)
3. Think about what is happening when you don't have the problem
4. Work out how you can do more of that
5. Think about every possible way of achieving the solution
6. Use The Miracle Question
7. Use positive visualisation from The Miracle Question to stay focussed on the solution
8. Notice the positive changes happening
Brief Solution Focussed Therapy integrates well with other approaches, especially Hypnotherapy, NLP, EFT and Coaching. BSFT and Life Coaching use similar approaches and share one particular philosophy which is "we get more in life of whatever we think about". Its true isn't it? We all know people who constantly think about ill health and unfortunately they often spend a lot of time feeling ill. Other people have the opposite mindset and are focussed on wellbeing/health. They usually find themselves feeling well.
Sometimes you meet people who seem to think, and talk constantly about bad luck. They often find that bad luck seems to follow them wherever the go. We all probably know other people who spend a lot of time thinking about how fortunate they are. Its surprising how often we can find good luck when we spend time thinking about it.
The real miracle here is just how simple it can be to achieve major changes in how we feel and in our behaviours. Some of the most effective therapeutic approaches tend to be brief and powerful, working at a deep, often unconscious level. I personally feel that the most powerful techniques are those that the client learns to carry out themselves. Clients love to learn how to take themselves into a blissfully relaxing state of Hypnosis. They can do this instantly, safely and easily whenever they want to.
Nick Cooke teaches Brief Solution Focussed Therapy, Hypnotherapy, NLP and Life Coaching at Central England College as well as working as a practitioner. He is happy to answer questions if you call him 0121 444 1110 or Email him at nick@centralengland.org
You can also visit www.centralenglandcollege.org
References:
O'Connell B (2005) Solution Focussed Therapy - second edition. London: Sage
Jackson P Z and Mckergow M (2002) The Solutions Focus. London: Nicholas Brealey
Metcalf L (2004) The Miracle Question. Carmarthen: Crown House
Rogers C (1961) On Becoming a Person. London:
Constable Bandler R and Grinder J (1979) Frogs into Princes. Moab, Utah: Real People Press
Get Positive!
Researchers in the USA have now established that having a positive attitude is so powerful that it can even extend your life!
A positive attitude helps you to cope more easily with the ups and downs of daily life. It brings optimism into your life which makes it easier to avoid worry and negative thinking. So how do you start the process of becoming a positive thinker, rather than a negative thinker?
Firstly you need to identify whether or not you have a negative attitude by answering these simple questions.
I don't feel in charge of my own life I am an under achiever I often say 'I can't, I couldn't, I shouldn't!' I feel like an outsider I don't feel confident
If this sounds like you then you have low self-esteem and tend to look at the negative rather than the positive aspects of your life.
What is the face of true self-esteem and how can it be achieved?
When a person truly esteems himself or herself, they take full responsibility for their own lives. Life lived right is a delicate balance, and we all need help maintaining this balance from time to time. If you really want to change your outlook on life it may be useful to take a good look at your self, from the outside in. This may sound difficult but as long as you are totally honest with yourself this should become an easier task.
Start by keeping a journal, for one week and each day document how you feel. This is a great way to identify those things which make you feel annoyed … sad … happy … depressed … irritated … frustrated … self sufficient … critical … and most importantly it helps you to identify the areas in your life where you feel undervalued. Research shows that when a person feels undervalued, their self-esteem plummets. So here are ways to help you develop a more positive attitude, therefore raising your self-esteem.
1 Each time you have written a negative thought in your journal, re-write it in a positive way on the following page. Practice doing this in your mind until it becomes a habit. For example "I never finish anything by the end of the day" could become "I will probably get most things finished by the end of the day".
2 Learn to communicate effectively. Many people do not voice their true opinion for fear of an argument or for hurting another's feelings. Not saying what you feel can lead to frustration, hurt, anger or anxiety.
3 Help someone out. The simple act of helping others helps us to feel good. Volunteer at your local hospital, help out a neighbour by picking up groceries or spend time chatting to an elderly neighbour. If you are unsure of how to help out in your community call your nearest volunteer centre. Also the internet or your library has loads of information on local volunteering services.
4 Get back to the simple things in life. Look up old friends, go for a walk in your neighbourhood (it's so easy to become isolated from your local community these days), or when was the last time you visited an art gallery, or just sat back and listened to your favourite music? Or read a great book … it's the simplist things in life that bring the most pleasure.
5 Find your spirituality. Again, research has shown that people who have a spiritual belief or faith in any religion and also those who meditate regularly lead happier, more contented lives and live longer. The secret is practicing those beliefs, either through organised spiritual associations or simple meditation in a quiet place.
6 Have a good laugh! Learn how to find humour in simple things. When is the last time you had a real belly laugh? Laughter is a powerful mood elevator. If you are feeling down. Watch a funny film or just act silly now and again!
7 Join a new club or get a new hobby or interest. Participate in a new activity either mental or physical. Make new friends, boost your confidence levels and enjoy the feelings of discover that we often lose after childhood.
8 Learn to have a 'holistic' approach to life. Eat healthy (visit a nutritionist if you're not sure what constitutes a balanced diet. Or seek out a holistic therapist who can help improve your physical body and you mental attitude to life.
9 Avoid the news. Find other things to do with your time, such as read an uplifting book or magazine. Do the things that you enjoy. The media (be it TV or newspapers) tend to focus on the negative things going on in our world (it makes better news!) but this can make you unnecessarily frightened or depressed. If you start to take responsibility for your own life and yourself - remembering that no other person or situation can make you truly happy - no one but yourself and your inner being, then maybe you can find true happiness and contentment. Only you can make the positive change so … go read a self improvement book … search your true spirituality … take a class … find a support group or life coach. Start by reading this website. There is loads of help out there. It's up to you to find the right path for you!
Learning to be more spiritual
What does being spiritual mean?
Do we all have the capacity to be spiritual?
In New Age circles spiritual development teaches that there is more to life beyond our basic five senses, that there is a divine guidance at work pointing us in the right direction to find greater meaning in life. Developing spiritually can realign your sense of self to something that you may not even have imagined was in you.
Think of a time in your life when you surprised yourself at how you handled a situation; maybe the words simply came to you, or you felt inspired or guided to act in a certain way that produced wonderful results. Spirituality says that even if you think you are limited and small, this simply isn't the case - you are greater and more powerful than you ever imagined.
A divine light exists inside each and every one of you. If you think that you are limited to just your mere existence as a human being, spirituality is there to say that 'there is more than this'.
Steps to becoming more spiritual:
- Sit in regular quiet contemplation at home or in nature. Take time to appreciate the wonderful world around you - sights, sounds, smells, etc.
- You have the power to change your world. Trust your intuition and know the answers are within you.
- Allow yourself to be filled with inspiration, love, joy, wisdom and peace on a regular basis.
- Each morning think of 10 things that you are grateful for in your life.
- Look beyond outer appearances to the deeper significance and soul of everything.
- Love and respect everything - yourself, friends, family, etc.
- Find a class or course that provides the time and space for spiritual development - learn a therapy, take a psychic development class, Reiki, yoga, etc. Spirituality connects you with the powerful and divine force present in this universe. Whether you are looking for success, peace, or enlightenment, becoming more spiritual and developing a deep understanding of the divine forces at work in your life will help you achieve greatness.
DiscoverSerenity Holistic Solutions runs development courses throughout the year including Crystal Therapy, Psychic & Spiritual Development, Reiki, Tarot. Gentle and relaxing therapies also available including Crystals, Reiki, Indian Head Massage. Psychic and Tarot readings also available.
Please visit www.discoverserenity.co.uk or ring 07982 028765 for more information.
Transcendental Meditation
Simple, effortless - Yoga for the Mind!
The revolutionary 'TM' technique, described as "a restoration of the essence of yoga" has been learned by millions around the world since 1958. However, increases in the cost of courses in the last few years have stopped many from learning. Now 'TM' is available again at realistic prices with the start of regular courses in Birmingham run by The College of Meditation whose independent teachers were trained by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Imagine - if just sitting quietly in a comfortable chair for a few minutes of very enjoyable deep relaxation every day could leave you feeling physically and mentally refreshed, with a calmer and more alert mind, increased energy and clearer thinking. And as a result you found that you could achieve more with less effort, that your deepest desires began to find fulfillment and that work, recreation and relationships were more rewarding. These are some of the benefits gained by more than six million people worldwide practicing Transcendental Meditation, ('TM'). Teacher Colin Beckley explains: "Many people say that they 'find it hard to make their mind be still', often having tried (or even taught) many different forms of meditation. They are surprised and delighted to find after learning TM that with the right technique and a proper understanding it is very easy, not to make the mind still, but to allow it to settle down towards peace. During TM the mind settles to its most silent and restful state and yet remains fully alert. In this peaceful, often blissful state of self-awareness, the body also gains very deep rest, much deeper than in sleep, (called by scientists a 'restructuring state') which allows the body's natural healing mechanisms to function fully. Deep-rooted stresses and tensions are spontaneously dissolved, bringing relief to a wide range of health problems. Mental health is improved as the conditioning caused by past experience is dissolved and we spontaneously begin to live with joy and freedom in the present moment. TM - Health and Happiness naturally and spontaneously from within. Eliminating stress not only affects health. Wide ranging benefits of TM on all areas of life have been validated by more than 600 scientific research studies, conducted during the past 30 years at 230 research institutes and universities in 24 countries". Sensory experience is enhanced. Artists report increased appreciation of colour and musicians an extra delight in sound. Many others report taste and smells coming to life. Increased enjoyment of sex is common and fertility has been known to improve.
"I discovered TM in 1980… My friend Vinod and I called it 'real mediation' because we felt that an undeniable breakthrough had been made in a tradition that cashes in more on legends than results… Within a week I stopped drinking, the last habit I picked up under the pressure of my work. Two weeks later I quit smoking .. I didn't need the taste. I began to feel extraordinarily well. I remember being so taken with bewildered happiness that I said 'it's true!' just that"
Dr Deepak Chopra From his book 'Return of the Rishi'
People of all professions rediscover their natural ability to remain calm under pressure, free from tension and fatigue and at the peak of their mental clarity and performance, which has encouraged companies such as Sony, General Motors, IBM, and Toyota to make TM available to their staff.
"The overall benefits of regular TM are so staggering as to be almost unbelievable -
in one 5 year study, half the number of in-patient admissions to hospital (87% fewer for heart disease and nervous system disorders). These findings are remarkable."
Dr. James Le Fanu in the Sunday Telegraph
You might expect something with such wide ranging benefits would be difficult to do, but TM is easy; so effortless it can be practiced on a train or bus or in a busy airport. Absolutely anyone can do it, and the effects are immediate because it is a completely natural technique. No change of lifestyle is needed. We just carry on as before. The difference is that life starts to improve. The inner growth TM brings is like being released from prison - the prison of stress which affects us all, even if we regard ourselves as healthy. We become more our true selves as the distorting influence of stress is removed and we start to use more of the unlimited potential of our "Kingdom of Heaven within".
"Yoga is the settling of the mind into silence" (Yoga Sutras 1:2)
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi
The course consists of personal (individual) instruction on the first day (normally Saturday), at the end of which you know enough to go home and practice on your own. This will bring up doubts and queries from the different experiences, so you then return for three group sessions of about 2 ½ hours (normally Sunday morning, Sunday evening and Monday evening) in which we gradually build up your understanding based on your experiences. You then have the skill to meditate on your own for the rest of your life, secure in the knowledge that your teacher is available (free of charge) to help and guide you for the rest of your life and so ensure you achieve maximum benefits.
After being trained under the guidance of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and working for his organisation for many years, Colin left them in 1999 in protest at the 'huge increase in course prices' and is now working independently, which means that prices for the course are reduced by as much as 93%.
Colin Beckley is now Director of The College of Meditation and The Meditation Trust.
Please contact Office Manager on 01843 841010 for a FREE INFORMATION PACK
(Office Hours Mon to Fri 9m to 1 pm)
Email: tm.com@btinternet.com
Website www.tm-meditation.co.uk
www.collegeofmeditation.com
Looking for Happiness?
In this article Suzi Caunce, Principal Teacher of the Heart of England Shiatsu School looks at how we live through the Element of Fire (experienced through the Heart) using the context of both Eastern and Western thought.
The Season of Fire, summer, represents nature at its zenith. Fire is sacred to all the world's religions. Fire is the power to transform. Flames are burning as you read this article on shrines, graves and on altars to celebrate the divine spark within. The stillness achieved by watching a flame is healing. When there is no fire or sun life becomes dull, it is no accident that many Indian yoga asanas focus on fire to get people through the monsoon and the winter. Focussing on fire brings happiness. Desiderata, written in the 14th. Century, states "With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy".
The traditional western view of happiness, however, is generally something that we seek from outside ourselves. But is striving for happiness the answer? With a confusing number of choices, deadlines to meet, people to see or to please, appearances to keep up, for some the pursuit of happiness has become "Can't Get no Satisfaction" as voiced by the Rolling Stones in the 1960's.
Am I a better person if I wear the blue shirt or the orange one? Would Trinny and Susanna approve? Should I dress like a hippy or wear a suit? If I do enough growth work on myself will I meet the right person, earn loads of money and drive the right car? Is it more trendy to be a Buddhist or have a guru? Oriental Medicine talks of a quiet joy that embraces everything, the true spirit or Shen that is all embracing. Shen is seen as being present in all the Elements of the bodymind, and is ruled by the Heart.
Enabling happiness may simply be a choice to accept oneself or, to put it a slightly different way, a choice to be responsible for how one feels, accept and be happy. These processes can sometimes require health, strength and freedom from emotional trauma and tiredness. "True joy, therefore rests on firmness and strength within, manifesting itself outwardly as yielding and gentle" I Ching, Hexagram 58
Many people seem to be addicted to stress or to having a 'good time'. Care needs to be taken, as fire out of control can destroy. Real joy emanates when we are relaxed. Over-joy or excitement comes after a change for the better i.e. falling in love, a new job, even a happiness or growth training! This is a singular experience and is usually followed by a slump in mood or energy levels, unlike the quiet joy, which can always be felt. "The Heart is the root of life and causes the versatility of the spiritual facilities. Thus when the Heart is joyful energy flows throughout the body and the organs are balanced. If, however joy becomes frenzied excitement, then the energy of the Heart is exhausted and it affects all other functions." Nei Ching
This quietness of the Heart is where listening comes from, and plays a big part in, healing, relationships and understanding. It is the starting place for compassion and wisdom. Oriental healing systems [tai chi/chi kung/yoga], prayer and meditation can enhance these qualities by cultivating inner silence. A modern version of this inner silence or positive psychology has been taught in educational institutions in the United States for some time and is taken very seriously at the top universities both here and in the US. A useful focus for this has proved to be quiet reflection on the practise of gratitude: "People who daily write down five things for which they are grateful each are happier, more optimistic and more likely to achieve their goals."
Some people are strong enough to have this inner happiness all the time and enjoy the stresses of things that they have chosen to do. Others interpret demands as stress and find life difficult. Life can challenge us with what we don't want and we can resist creating more stress. My experience as a bodyworker has shown me that the body makes little distinction as to whether an experience is good or bad. Stress is simply stress and usually follows the ups and downs of life. We have capacity for adapting and the energy we used is known in Oriental Medicine as Ching Chi. This is limited and exhaustion sets in. We all need an optimum level of stress to grow and develop as human beings, for all the Elements of Shen to function together to support the Heart. The last thing we need is to become oblivious to ourselves and burn ourselves out.
Many of us have daily rituals; i.e. walking the dog, tai chi/yoga/meditation, a bowl of cereals in the morning, a bed-time cocoa etc. which make us feel content and help to guard against what we interpret as stress. The other suggestion from the circumstances of the above quote is that we have a need to express ourselves, to be doing something that is right for us and has meaning. Some philosophies, both Western and Eastern regard being on the 'right path' as beneficial to the spirit. What is your heart's desire to give humanity? What do you desire for yourself? According to recent surveys we need a level of comfort to relax and sleep well and some good friends to share the things we enjoy with. Even so happiness can elude us: Happiness is like a butterfly, The more you chase it, the more it will elude you, But if you turn your attention to other things, It comes softly and sits on your shoulder. Robert Lessor
The serious pursuit of happiness does not guarantee fulfilment. In the classics, humour too has a place. It is the foundation of many relationships as it encourages a lightness of being. Since everything is but an apparition, Perfect in being what it is, Having nothing to do with good or bad, Acceptance or rejection, One may well burst out in laughter
Long Chen Pa Humour plays a great part in helping us over life's trials and troubles, but only if its heartfelt and sympathetic. Sharing a good laugh is Fire energy used at its best. There is no substitute for what is gained from having good friendships, the practise of the quiet mind and the practise of gratitude, but neither is there any fail safe mechanism! Equally there is no substitute for humour! Does life need to be taken so seriously? Put your best foot forward, step out into life, participate and enjoy yourself! You may well be pleasantly surprised by what you find! Go placidly midst the joy and haste…… Desiderata
The author of this article Suzi Caunce can be contacted on 01926 492880
email:shiatsu.Heartofengland@ntlworld.com
www.shiatsu-heartofengland.co.uk
Are your New Years Resolutions already slipping into oblivion!
Why Creating a Resolution Fuels Motivation
Everyone is motivated by different things. One person may want to lose weight for health reasons, while another may want to discard those extra pounds to look better. In order to get good grades, one person may be motivated, or strive, because they need a high wage, while another person may be motivated to earn high marks for job satisfaction.
Whether you are looking to lose a few pounds, exercise more to get in better shape or to get your house structured, creating a sense of purpose is the key to motivation.
Motivation is difficult without having a sense of purpose. Without a reason, your goals are not clear and your outcome that you are working towards will be harder to reach. Many different things may motivate a person, but the reason why they are motivated is typically because they have some kind of purpose.
Often, when a person creates a firm sense of purpose, or a clear reason, then the end result is easier to reach. Clear goals and understanding why you want to motivate yourself can often be the simplest way to get motivated to do nearly anything. When you get ready to work on achieving a goal and understand your purpose for doing so, your goal will be easier to achieve. Think about what motivates you and then you can easily find ways to help yourself along the way. Make a list of small things that you could use for motivation. These could be rewards or incentives that could range from a new book to a new dress.
In addition, without a clear purpose, your motivation will drop when your work becomes difficult. You lose sight of why you are doing whatever it is that you are striving to accomplish. You can easily give up and you no longer have in sight what your end result can or will be. This makes motivating yourself so much easier and helps you reach your mission much faster and easier than without a clear purpose. Another great motivational tool is by rewarding yourself for reaching your small goals along the way. After you have thought about your reason for wanting to do something, consider what you would get pleasure from a reward. Often, small rewards can motivate and help make your end goal easier to achieve.
Having a clear purpose for an outcome gives you the clearness you need to become motivated. Motivation is near impossible to achieve without this clarity. Writing a list or journal of goals will help you reach your end result is a good way to keep your purpose in mind and to keep yourself motivated. If you want to exercise more, possibly keeping a journal of what kind of exercise you do and how long will help you maintain a clear picture in your mind. By looking at your exercise log, your motivation and purpose could be spurred each day. You will start by making small changes each day, if you are trying to attain a large goal, such as losing twenty pounds. These small changes are your goals that will cause you to your successful weight loss.
I hope you have get good ideas from this article and that you are able to use them. Go ahead and look around to find additional helpful tips and information at www.selfhelpzone.com
Nishanth Reddy is an author and publisher of popular Self Help Blog. For more information on motivation, goal setting and success and visit: www.selfhelpzone.com/category/motivation/
Applied Kinesiology
The Appliance of Science using muscles
By Clive Hall, Director ~ The Northern School of Kinesiology
Applied Kinesiology was established in the 1960's following research by eminent Chiropractor Dr George Goodheart whose work was then further enhanced with the addition of further research by Osteopaths Chapman and Bennett.
By combining these works it was found that the muscles in the body had a common link with the nervous systems that control the organs of the body and that anything which benefits the musculature also has an equally beneficial effect upon the associated organ function. Finally the link was made between this western technology and the ancient Chinese principle of energy flow in the body and how it may be assessed and monitored by the use of simple muscle tests.
Applied Kinesiology is recognised as the basis from which each of the other disciplines of Kinesiology have been taken but remains the only Kinesiology which encompasses all techniques and which has relevant research to back up its methods.
The practitioner utilising applied kinesiology techniques is able to assess clients on every level of their being, structural - mental - chemical and energy, as for someone to be truly healthy all four bodily systems need to be functioning well and in harmony.
Muscle testing combined with other applied kinesiology techniques enables the practitioner to find out which of the systems is out of balance and can identify factors which may be contributing to those imbalances. Similarly corrections can be applied to all four areas. Restoring this balance can have profound effects on peoples lives and the application of applied kinesiology techniques can obtain positive results when other approaches, including orthodox medicine have failed.
How does it benefit people?
Its greatest application is in dealing with everyday complaints for which no permanent cure has been found. The assessment techniques are excellent at identifying the causes of the problems and in pin pointing the sources of general un-wellness and fatigue that have no obvious medical causes. The muscle testing lets the body reveal what it requires to be healed, so that the problems are corrected at source, very often permanently. Kinesiology can also be utilised very successfully for preventative health testing in order to keep the body in balance. In the more serious conditions the testing reveals how individuals are better able to manage their condition and function as well as possible in the circumstances.
The practitioner utilising applied kinesiology can assist people with many common ailments including; allergies, food sensitivities, chronic fatigue, asthma, eczema, candida, irritable bowel, migraine headaches, insomnia, anxiety, phobias, low mood, weight problems, fluid retention, digestive problems, muscular and skeletal pain, arthritic pain, hyperactivity in children, breast congestion and much more. As the Kinesiology testing does not focus on specific symptoms but tests and corrects the imbalances throughout the whole mind/body system, so the list of health problems with which it is able to help or alleviate is endless.
Why choose to use Applied Kinesiology?
For the person who is suffering and wishes to seek a complementary therapy then the use of applied kinesiology ensures that they are obtaining the best value for their money as they are tested and then receive treatment for the most important imbalance that their body indicates. They will also receive advice about the best ways to assist with their particular problems.
Kinesiology cannot harm anyone, the techniques used are simple and gentle and they are dictated by the clients' own body. It is suitable for adults and children of all ages (including babies). People who are very sick or disabled may be treated by using a technique known as surrogating, this technique can also be utilised for working with babies and is used by those trained in the applied kinesiology techniques.
The number of treatments required varies dependent on the condition being treated, for example if someone has had a health problem for a number of years it may take longer to relieve than something that has developed fairly recently. It is reasonable to expect a noticeable improvement by at least the third session.
As well as benefiting the client, the use of applied kinesiology techniques for the qualified practitioner means that they are able to find the root cause of the problem a lot quicker and then spend more time on the application of the relevant corrections.
Benefits in Learning applied kinesiology techniques
No previous experience is required to attend a course so if your thinking of starting in the complementary therapy field or wishing to add to your existing skills then learning applied
kinesiology techniques should be one of your major
considerations.
Susan Clark - Winner of the Health Journalist of the Year Award said, "it is some of the best diagnostic tools in complementary health ……
…….. Kinesiology takes the guesswork out of
making a diagnosis and, in my view, should be a compulsory training course for all alternative health practitioners"
For the parent or non practitioner the benefits of being able to utilise the techniques at home on family and friends or even in the office are quite obvious. Those people who deal with health matters on a daily basis would find the techniques of great benefit. Others who work in a healthcare environment have also found the techniques to be advantageous.
For the practitioner the ability to carry out testing and find the root cause of those annoying everyday non clinical ailments is a distinct advantage. The practitioner is also able to benefit by the increase in the services offered and the added bonus of being able to expand the business services on offer speaks for itself in financial terms.
For information on where to find your nearest practitioner utilising applied kinesiology muscle testing call FREEPHONE 0800 074 9144 or to obtain details of the nearest Practitioner Certificated course in applied kinesiology techniques call The Northern School of Kinesiology on 01388 720146 or visit www.kinesiologyuk.com
'If you would learn the secret of right relations look only for the Divine
in people and things and leave the rest to God.'
Physician Heal Thyself
by Sean Bradley
How many times in our life have we been faced with the words, 'Physician Heal Thyself'? Yes, these are challenging words for all who embrace truth but none more so than the healer or holistic therapist who engages in spiritual healing or holistic therapies with their client groups.
I accept that the best healers or therapists, are those who have been broken in their mind, body and spirit. In order to help or assist another achieve wellness and wholeness, we have a primary duty of care towards self. Yet, I know that there are many therapists who practice spiritual healing and holism who are still continuing to work from a place of imbalance. It would appear that one has become indifferent to the 'Cries of the Heart' to 'self heal.'
As a former nursing monk and qualified nurse with 38 years experience in the caring ministry, I realise to my own deep sadness that for best part of my life, I was 'The Rescuer.' Yes, I was the 'Person Pleaser' or a member of the 'Cling On Family' whose professional life sustained 'Burnout' on more than one occasion. Because I found it difficult to say NO to others for fear of been despised or rejected, I literally gave my power away for others to hurt me on many levels. So, I was to blame not they, as I was in their control like a puppet on a string! Thankfully, a major life crisis in 1997 was to become my 'Spiritual Breakthrough.' Over a four-year period of living in the wilderness of self-loathing, despair, fear and wracked by Catholic guilt, I eventually was targeted by the Angelic Realms, the Messengers of Love, to say, 'ENOUGH.' In my heart, I knew that what they were inviting me to do was to hear the words of Sananda Jesus, "Physician Heal thyself before daring to heal others." I was literally kicked where it really hurt so that I could activate the 'self healing process' and unlocks many years of inner mental and emotional turmoil.
Many clients who have since sought my help as an intuitive spiritual counsellor, therapist or retreat director, have come seeking clarity and healing. There are those who demand that I provide a sticky plaster to eradicate their baggage without any personal accountability or even responsibility. There are others who are so 'self obsessed' and seek a Psychic message to agree with them or they insist through their body language and verbalism that I engage in massaging their humungous egos whilst stuck in the 'idolatry of self. Then there are those who come with an open heart to receive whatever the universe has in store for them. They come with a receptive heart and in turn, they receive the 'Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven' to self heal and change their lives in the process, all because they are willing to trust their heart. Their ardent prayers have been answered in a profound yet simple way and they leave totally at peace within.
To self heal and be used as an instrument of spiritual healing for self and others, we are strongly encouraged by our Spiritual Guides, the Archangels and God to remain always in our Heart Centre and avoid the egoist self. The reason why so many Light Workers are operating in negative energy is because they are either reluctant to accept positive advice, or have become spiritually complacent or arrogant to the high vibrational energies that is now coming through. Again, as individuals, we have a duty to safeguard the spiritual gifts that we have been given and this involves speaking our truth and taking back our power from others so that we can operate from a place of balance. To ignore our heart and reject that intuitive 'gut instinct' then we are doing ourselves a grave disservice. Our negative actions and attitudes will have an indirect detrimental impact energetically upon those we have agreed to support. So, 'Physician Heal Thyself' is not something new but a challenge given to everyone to remain detached from ego and the adulation of personal opinion. Self healing involves personal pain but light is not too far behind!
If we operate from a heart infused with Divine Love and our words challenge others to criticise us for daring to speak our truth in love, then that is good too as it is real medicine for the soul in it's progression along the pathway that leads to our spiritual destiny.
To conclude, my heart is reminded why Mother Mary continues to speak to ordinary men and women today. Mother Mary together with the entire Angelic Host, daily invites all mankind, including her Ministers from the various religious families in our communities to listen to their heart and receive spiritual love that is the fuel for our spiritual life in service with the Divine within. We are each invited by Mother Mary to do the ordinary things extraordinary well whilst not forsaking a life of prayer and sharing all that we have received from Source.
About Sean
Sean is an intuitive spiritual life coach, healer, teacher and author of many books and produced a wide range of healing meditations benefiting anyone in need of relaxation. Formerly a nursing monk for 38 years, he is now recognised internationally not only as a Light Bringer of peace and reconciliation within the interfaith community but his form of 'Bradleyan Spirituality,' now encompasses many beliefs, including the teachings of the Johannine Essenes of Mount Carmel.
Guided by Lord Kutumi in 2006, Sean established the Tau Tree of Life Healing Community now supporting fellow Light Bringers requiring spiritual nourishment and fellowship across the world.
Like Sananda Jesus, Sean takes no prisoners in his work. His approach is very much heart centred whilst retaining a simplicity, directness that does empower his clients to reclaim their uniqueness as a child of Source.
Sean operates his consultancy from his home in the south lakes as well as leading directed spiritual retreats by the Red Sea, Sinai in Egypt.
Today, Sean continues to live the life of a solitary Jesuessene monk based on the original teachings of Jesus, Saint John and Magdalene of Mount Carmel. Their rule of life was more about celebrating Divine Love and Light and discouraging negative mind-sets of fear, guilt and religious hate.
For more information about Sean's directed spiritual retreats in the South Lakes or by the Red Sea in Sinai, Egypt and the range of courses in Therapeutic Essenic Energy Medicine (underpinned by the teachings of Jesus, Magdalene, Mother Mary, the Four Spheres of Angelic Beings and the Johannine Essenes of Mount Carmel), please visit his website at: www.sean-bradley.com - www.taucommunity.com - www.angelgardens4u.co.uk Or
Chapel Gap Healing Centre, Storth, Milnthorpe. Cumbria. LA7 7JL. UK
Telephone Sean on: + 0044-1524-762292
A nutritional and environmental approach to
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
These days, who hasn't met someone who is "tired all the time", or someone who has even been given a definite diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome??
It is becoming an increasingly common phenomenon. The Centre for Disease Control in the US estimated that in the early 1990's the disease affected approximately 10 people per 100,000. By 1999, a Chicago prevalence study revealed approximately 400 people per 100,000 - a huge increase. And this is for a condition that some authorities still insist either doesn't exist as such, or is purely a psychological condition. This confusion creates even more confusion in the sufferer. I know, because I had it for several years and it almost ruined my life. I felt ashamed to say to people that the reason I could not work normally, or engage in many normal activities was because I had Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Well, what is it actually? The term "Chronic Fatigue" (also known as Fibromyalgia, M.E., postviral fatigue) is a descriptive term for a recognised cluster of symptoms and signs. The diagnosis says nothing about the cause of the condition.
The challenge is that, for the probably hundreds of dysfunctions/ infections/ deficiencies which can occur in the human body, the first and most consistent symptom is, yes, fatigue. So teasing out of the patient's history, examination and tests the particular cause/s in their individual case is the challenge. It is my opinion that it is not one disease. In fact, there are multiple causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Sometimes one cause is predominant in a patient, sometimes it is a combination of factors. All have to be addressed and corrected in order for symptom improvement to occur. What follows are some of the main causes which I have been able to discover to date.
INFECTION:
Research (Dr Garth Nicholson) has shown that up to 50% of CFS patients have unrecognised persistent infections. These may be overgrowths of abnormal organisms in the gut, which may be fungi (yeast), bacteria, viruses and parasites, and may occur in combination with a deficiency of good bacteria in the gut. Persistent infections may also be in the blood, lungs, teeth, gall bladder, reproductive tract or any other tissue in the body and may include all of the above types of organisms. Where possible I investigate these possible infections, improve the immune system function and treat with herbal preparations where necessary.
NUTRITION:
Nutritional deficiencies often coexist and are usually of the minerals Iron, Zinc Magnesium, Selenium, Manganese, Molybdenum and others; the vitamins, particularly Vitamin B12; specific proteins and the essential fatty acids.
It is a fact of modern life that the food we consume has been grown in chemical beds, not in well-fertilised earth, and subsequent analyses of mineral and vitamin status in foods are showing ever-decreasing concentrations of essential nutrients. It is true for nutrients across the board, but one case in point is Selenium, a mineral extremely important in human detoxification and protection from cancer. It is not essential for plants however, so it is not added to chemical plant fertilisers. Meanwhile, animals and humans are not getting enough Selenium now in the food chain. My questioning of patients' diets has shown me that most people do not realise how they are in fact eating far too much processed carbohydrate which contains little broad nutritional value, and that they overload on rancid, overcooked fats.
Nutritional deficiencies may be the primary cause of the fatigue in one patient; but in another, they may have arisen secondarily as a result of malabsorption or maldigestion due to gut infection, or due to food intolerance. Chronic infection of cells, eg by organisms such as Mycoplasma and Chlamydia can also use up the body's nutrients and energy. So, contrary to what we are often told, it is my experience that patients even with very good diets can have poor nutritional status which can result in fatigue and malfunction.
TOXICITY:
Chemical toxins, e.g. wood preserving agents, pesticides, herbicides, glues, solvents, plastics, fire retardants, perfumes may all cause fatigue in susceptible patients or when in overload dosage. A history is taken to take this into account, and if necessary tests can be done to try and determine how great a causal factor these may be. It has been estimated that we in this post modern era are subjected to 18,000 chemicals per day. This has never been encountered before in human evolution. Think what a strain this places on detoxification processes and on the immune system!
Heavy Metals such as mercury (for example from dental amalgam), cadmium (cigarette smoking), aluminium, (aluminium pots and aluminium-containing antacids), and lead can be causal or contributory to fatigue.
Imagine for example a combination of heavy metals, nutritional deficiency and then a bad "'flu" - there you have a not unusual story of many patients with "chronic fatigue".
ALLERGY:
For this, I include Intolerance. Time and again, when my colleagues and I place patients on controlled elimination diets, we find that many symptoms disappear, including fatigue. We usually do this in conjunction with nutritional replacement, but there are occasions when dietary change was all that was necessary to end fatigue.
GENETIC:
Every patient is unique. For example, some patients have a genetic enzyme tendency that means their bodies need much higher levels of Zinc and Vitamin B6 just to maintain normal function. If they do not receive these, they can develop mental illness. (This is called Kryptopyroluria.) I suspect there are many more such individual variations affecting all sorts of functions in the body.
OTHER CAUSES:
Low or high thyroid hormone; chronic unresolved stress, or depression; other chronic or as yet undetected, difficult to find infections, for example in the gall bladder, inner ear, or jaw; auto-immune diseases; and cancer may all present as chronic fatigue. Usually the patient's local General Practitioner and hospital have already conscientiously investigated these options and the results have been returned as normal.
Regarding the stress theory, I must add here that my personal belief is that patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are no more psychologically challenged than any patients in other disease categories, including cardiac disease, and cancer.
UNDISCOVERED:
We must keep exploring, questioning, seeking; keep asking the question "What else could it be???" None of us knows it all. The truth is in Medicine, we know a lot of facts, can fill pages with them, but it is still the tip of the iceberg of knowledge of this amazing miracle, the human body.
MY APPROACH:
I always remember that the body is trying to heal. The right conditions need to exist for this to take place. Reading the above, especially on toxicity, it may be hard to imagine how we humans can even survive! But, in fact, it shows me again and again the wonderful healing properties of nature; and how well the body manages to cope with thousands of challenges every day. I suggest measures to try to reduce the toxic/inflammatory load on the body first, while improving the immunity and detoxification mechanisms. I investigate the nutritional status and try to correct it. If patients are willing to be detectives and make changes in their lives and diets, I find that, with "Chronic Fatigue", people can in fact be optimistic about a return to health. The earlier someone seeks treatment, the easier the task. Many cases are dealt with relatively simply, and in three months can be feeling much better. If they persist in the programme, much more improvement generally follows, albeit less dramatic. I would add a caveat here: do not look for miracle cures and miracle promises. There are always difficult cases, with obscure causes, or multiple causes, and this fact needs always to be borne in mind, but with persistence, and investment in correct and thorough investigation, I strongly believe patients can be optimistic.
Dr Bernadette Scheel
Tel: 01283 516966
e: bernadette108uk@aol.com
37 Osborne St
Burton-on-Trent
Staffordshire
DE15 0JL
THE HEALING ART OF REFLEXOLOGY
and how it can help the sufferers of ARTHRITIS
Recently reflexology has grown in importance and research has shown that it promotes holistic health. Reflexology has not just gained importance in UK but most of the World. Reflexology was rediscovered by Dr William Fitzgerald and was introduced into America, and arrived in UK in the 1960's.
Reflexology is safe and simple, with no side affects, like many drugs. Its benefits are numerous
- Helps with Arthritis Conditions
- Balance
- Recovery after surgery/trauma
- Prevention of illness
- Promotes better circulation
- Promotes Lymphatic drainage
- Helps with Fertility
- Promotes cell growth through better circulation
- Good for Asthma/Congestion of nose and throat
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a method of bringing about relaxation, balance and healing through the stimulation of points in the feet or the hands. This system is based upon that all parts of the body are connected by pathways which end in the feet and hands from the brain. A reflexologist is trained to understand which areas of feet and hands related to which Areas of the body ie heart, lungs, kidneys etc.
By working the whole of the body through these reflex points brings about harmony and restores health and balance to the body.
HOW DOES REFLEXOLOGY WORK?
Our ancestors walked bare feet on uneven ground, in the grass before roads were made. This meant that the nerve endings were constantly massaged and stimulated.
Present day we constantly wear shoes not just outdoors but indoors which means that the feet are not naturally massaged and stimulated. Women wear high healed shoes causing untold damage to upper hips and thighs and to other parts of their body. Waste products accumulate and the energies stagnate in our bodies causing disease and lack of balance.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM REFLEXOLOGY?
From babies who are restless right to the elderly with Arthritis who have aches and pains can benefit from reflexology. The sports minded also benefit due to balancing the body and keep the circulatory system flowing aiding recovery from any injuries.
Personally I have successfully treated numerous clients with Arthritis by using reflexology and Ayurvedic massage to the joints, with hot oils, this has brought about great relief and reduction in swelling and promoted better movement in walking and the joints. Also diet and supplements are advised, which strengthens the bones and lubricates the joints.
Osteocare tablets/liquid for strong bones
Starflower for the joints and natural hormones
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU HAVE A TREATMENT?
A case history of injuries, illness, surgery and any other conditions is taken then an examination of the soles whilst treating, conditions of the body will be picked up during treatment and work carried out on the soles through massage or stimulation of the reflex parts.
At these points the freeing up off circulation and the lymphatic fluids take place restoring harmony and promoting balance to the body. Reflexology promotes health at all levels, the body and the mind and aids relaxation.
Balbinder Johal - Reflexologist
01922 623700/079619387
email: soul55@blueyonder.co.uk
A nutritional & environmental approach to delayed fertility
When I think back on my days as a medical officer in Gynaecology Infertility clinics, I feel a great deal of regret. There was absolutely no consideration given to the nutritional and environmental circumstances of the couples coming for treatment. And, although staff were normally kind and compassionate, there was no consideration given to psychological and social influences on fertility. We, at the clinic, ascertained through temperature charts and blood tests whether or not the woman was ovulating regularly, and through sperm counts, whether the male had enough sperm of adequate quality. The woman's tubes and uterus were examined by laparoscopy and dye injection to see if her tubes were patent (open). All of these are essential tests, because blocked tubes for example, can be a cause of infertility. But what I have learned since then has led me to believe that there is much more we can do that is helpful before we resort to artificial ovulation inducers, and the emotional roller coaster, not to mention extremely expensive artificial means of attempting fertilisation.
These non-invasive means of helping fertilisation range from the purely physical to the purely psychological. All are of importance. They apply to couples who are also, or who have already had physical investigations attended to, and who wish to maximise their chances of conceiving and having a healthy baby.
Because I am now a nutritional physician, I will start with the physical.
Many people are deficient in the common minerals, Zinc, Magnesium and Selenium, as well as the B Vitamins and Folate. Along with other important elements, these are necessary for cell growth and reproduction, cell protection, generation of cell energy, and development of the nervous system (hence the implication of deficiency of folate and Vitamin B12 in spina bifida and neural tube defects in infants). I think it would not be a giant leap of understanding then to see that these elements and vitamins could have a lot to do with successful reproduction. In evolutionary terms, these elements and vitamins were only deficient in times of starvation; and in starvation, higher-evolved animals will not successfully reproduce. Nowadays, many people in our society eat a calorie-rich, but nutrient-deficient diet, which causes suboptimal metabolic functioning, and can mimic starvation in some respects.
We find again and again that women who have delayed fertility or recurrent miscarriages are deficient in Magnesium and often in Selenium as well. We find that men with poor sperm counts often have a deficiency in Zinc and Selenium. For those who are interested in the detail, the biochemistry of these processes can be found in textbooks of Clinical or Applied Biochemistry and Nutrition.
Elements such as Magnesium do not work by themselves; the mineral elements, proteins (enzymes) and vitamins of the body work in concert together. Also, ordinary multivitamins and minerals are NOT appropriate in planning a pregnancy, because, for example, vitamin A in high dose is positively dangerous. Foresight is a charity which has developed a multivitamin/mineral for pregnancy planning which takes this into account. I personally believe that for something as important as this, it is preferable to do the correct nutritional tests, and know exactly what deficiencies (if any) one may be dealing with. (Supplements, if needed, should be purchased from good reliable brands. I am appalled at some of the supplements my patients have at times bought in the high street or supermarkets, paying a lot of money, and not obtaining quality, or even nutrients in an absorbable form.)
It is also important to refrain from conceiving until everything has been normalised and optimised for many months. Sperm take 3 months to be formed. If, for example they have been poor quality due to zinc deficiency, even after the man corrects his deficiencies, it will be another 3 months until the new sperm are off the conveyor belt. If I had known these things before, I believe I would have saved myself 2 heart-breaking miscarriages!
Some people also have a heavy metal or poison toxicity. Cadmium toxicity may result from cigarette smoking; lead toxicity may result from soldering or working in an environment where leaded petrol is still present; pesticide toxicity in susceptible individuals can occur just in the presence of pet flea collars, or chemical toxicity may occur in occupational hazards such as electricians working with fire retardants, wood turners and carpenters working with pesticide treated wood, farmers exposed to herbicides and organo-phosphates, nursery workers spraying pesticides and fungicides on a daily basis. And so the list goes on and on. These environmental factors can be identified, avoided where possible, detoxified and treated to some degree with nutritional supplementation.
Some couples have hidden infections which are apparently causing no symptoms. Usually these have been sought for in the Fertility Clinic, but the point here is that difficult to culture infections such as Chlamydia have to be vigilantly sought for and treated.
While couples are waiting for these tests and treatments I would urge patience. I know this is extremely hard, but it is worth doing. If conception occurs, it is much better to minimize the risk of miscarriage, and to maximize the nutrient environment for the developing foetus. During this time of patience, contraception needs to be of a barrier (a condom or diaphragm), or mucous method, NOT a hormonal method. And the couple are advised to refrain from using any of the sperm-killing creams that are normally used with barrier contraception. Artificial hormones, apart from the fact that they suppress normal ovulation, can cause B vitamin deficiencies, and we wish to avoid this when planning a pregnancy.
On the psychological level, there have been studies done in Harvard already many years ago showing that in women who had no known physical cause for infertility, a once-a-week for ten weeks course of combined supportive group therapy and relaxation therapy resulted in a 30% pregnancy rate within six months of finishing the course. I do not know if this work has been reproduced, but why this type of support has not become a more integral part of every fertility clinic's programmes here is a mystery to me…
Specifically, I suggest women ask themselves, "Do I feel supported in this relationship?" (with the prospective father)? "Do I feel nurtured in this relationship/ or in this environment?" No-one can define exactly what "supported" and "nurtured" means to you, but I recommend asking yourself the question deeply, and waiting for answers. I recommend going to gentle yoga, relaxation and meditation, and spending as much time as possible with people in whose presence you feel as though something important and unique inside you is nurtured and safe.
On a spiritual level, going into nature can be beneficial. Walk. Within reason, walk in all weathers, so that you feel the touch of rain on your face; so that you feel the wind, the sun. Walk until your legs are tired and the feel of the earth under your feet is no longer foreign. In warm weather, walk bare-footed on the grass. Try it and see. Plant seeds, feed the birds every day, watch things grow. Nurture someone else's child. It's a hard thing to do when you are hurting inside yourself for want of a healthy child, but if it is within your means to be selfless and send money or prayer to a child somewhere who is struggling just for food for a day, do it. It will make a difference. Be connected to all of Creation. Have faith in yourself.
Dr Bernadette Scheel
Tel: 01283 516966
e: bernadette108uk@aol.com
37 Osborne St
Burton-on-Trent
Staffordshire
DE15 0JL
Eat Yourself Well
Why diet is the key to optimising your health and combating illness
As the intimidating Gillian McKeith has been telling us, you are what you eat. And it goes deeper than diet affecting the performance of your heart or making you fatter. Despite modern advances in lifestyle, we seem to be getting more and more sick. We may live longer (at present - even that is set to change!) and are less likely to die of infections, but we are falling apart with degenerative disease and are full of allergies. Why should this be when we think we eat a 'better' diet of a wide range of foods from all over the world, do less physical work and live in a more sanitised environment? Well precisely for those reasons in fact! In order to counteract the negative side of modern life, we need to get back to basics and for many of us that begins with food.
The modern diet is actually fairly unnatural. We rely on convenience foods with multiple additives and microwave any goodness out of them. Our diet is loaded with sophisticated carbohydrates like Starbucks' paninis (a weakness of mine I must confess to my shame), but deficient in key vitamins and minerals such as magnesium and zinc. You'll hear a lot of propaganda about Recommended Daily Allowances being sufficient from the establishment, but the fact is that keeping to these levels only prevents old fashioned deficiency diseases. The amounts needed to optimise our health and cope with modern life are much higher. So our vitamin C intake may prevent scurvy, but may be insufficient to keep our skin in good health or stop our arteries breaking down and attracting cholesterol resulting in heart disease.
Many modern production methods have made our foods quite antagonistic to health. The digestive system has a lot of work to do to break down over-complex foods and our poor livers struggle massively with sorting out the bits and pieces and throwing out toxins. Our environment challenges us further with chemical toxins taken in though air and skin. We need our digestive system and organs of detoxification to be working really well and often they are overburdened. Furthermore weak digestion leads to undigested food particles, which alter the balance of bacteria in the gut by feeding the bad ones. This has multiple effects, not least of which is that they create more toxins which are passed to the liver. Then when things really get out of control, the gut wall is weakened and leaks undigested food molecules into the blood stream, often for the body's immune system to attack. Over time toxicity and/or food sensitivities results in disease appearing in the areas of genetic weakness we have - for one person it may be the skin (eg. eczema), another the lungs (eg. asthma).
Many conventional medical treatments are designed to suppress these local individual symptoms rather than eliminate the root cause of illness, which is often more general. On the other hand, Nutritional Therapy (really a branch of Natural Medicine) promotes the body's natural healing processes through dietary changes and supplementation of vitamins, minerals and herbal products. In particular it aims to restore good digestion and assimilation of foods, stabilise blood sugar levels and increase the efficiency of detoxification pathways, such as the kidneys and liver. As well as using these methods to boost general health and well-being (and hopefully maximise the body's ability to prevent illness), specific approaches can also be used to target the precise biochemical pathway involved in a particular condition, for example by balancing fatty acids to reduce the inflammation present in osteoarthritis.
I would like to leave you with a simple thought to chew on - food is not just something you eat for pleasure; food is the most important medicine you will ever take.
Chris Newbold, Nutritional Therapist (C.H.Ed. Dip. Nutritional Therapy)
Tel: 07989 605 295
email: chris.newbold@blueyonder.co.uk.
The Journey that lead to 'The Gift'
Written by Stuart Morris - Complementary Therapist and Yoga Instructor
My friends, family and clients know me as a Birmingham based Complementary Therapist and Yoga instructor. But fourteen years ago I was a self-employed builder working 13 hours and laying up to 1000 bricks a day. If someone had said to me then that in the future I would be treating people with therapies such as aromatherapy and reflexology, or even teaching yoga, you can imagine my reply!
It's been quite a journey from who I was then to who I am now.
In 1989 I was diagnosed with a form of cancer known as Non-Hodgkins Disease, a devastating illness. Yet strangely, this life threatening illness was to be my turning point and my saving grace.
I had surgery to remove the tumours. Then followed scans and hospital tests, followed by ever more tests. My treatment ended with twenty sessions of radiotherapy. It was without a doubt the most terrifying and devastating point in my life.
I experienced every symptom of anxiety - palpitations, shaking, chest pain, back pain, tachycardia - to name but a few, and for this I was given a relaxation tape which I used in the hospital after radiotherapy. I would lie down and listen to the sound of a woman's voice and I confess it soothed my weary mind.
Two things will always remain with me from that time, two things that shaped the way I help treat people today.
The first was a very kind nurse who would sit and talk to me. From this I realised that the right word, spoken at the right time is one of the most powerful forms of healing anyone can receive.
The second was given to me by my wonderful daughter, Jade. She was then three years old, and she would crawl into my bed and snuggle up close to me, holding my hand as if in reassurance, until we both fell asleep. I then came to realise the phenomenal healing power of a simple, caring touch.
Shortly after finishing my treatments, I joined a yoga class. I paid my money and, head down, entered a class full of women. I lay on the floor embarrassed, hoping no one had seen me. But soon that feeling of awkwardness came to pass and now I realise that it should never have even occurred. Yoga is now the foundation of my life, a level from which I can give from, a voice from which I can talk to people.
Several years ago my Yoga teacher asked me if I wanted to train as a teacher, and I have never looked back. I feel blessed to be able to pass on the wisdom of 6,000 years of teaching.
Shortly after my illness, I started exploring other natural therapies. I studied Touch for Health, Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Massage, nutrition and herbs, anything that would be beneficial to improving my wellbeing. And what started out as a journey to preserve my own life, health and happiness, soon blossomed into something far greater and I knew beyond doubt that my life needed to be dedicated to helping other people.
So now I combine the knowledge and wisdom of thousands of years of natural therapies and techniques, and I use these together with the healing power of the encouraging word and the healing touch, offering a whole, holistic approach. I strive to help others, to make their lives better, and in turn encourage them to make the way easier for others.
The Gift
Finding daily stresses are overtaking you? Do you find it difficult to let go of thoughts and worries that you aren't in a position to deal with now?
I personally know of no lonelier place in life than depression and anxiety, and these powerful emotions can become all consuming when also battling ill health.
We may have to face aloneness and fear through various seasons of our life and to get through these times can be near impossible.
I also know the value of being emotionally and physically comforted at such times. I know that with enough nurture, enough love and support we are able to transcend these times, move towards hope and from that place I believe healing begins.
This CD-ROM was born out of my need to be close to my son on the days when I couldn't be with him, the nights I wanted to ease his pain in so many ways. It's called The Gift because in essence it carries his name. It carries my love, a healing philosophy and my hope that you, like him, no longer feel alone as you listen to and watch this CD-ROM.
This CD-ROM seeks to comfort and give hope through the medium of relaxing audio, a unique breathing technique that is simple to use and will settle your system very quickly towards calmness.
Combine that with on-screen affirmations against a backdrop of moving waters and a beautiful sunset, rolling mountains and birds flying gracefully by and the Gift becomes totally unique.
The Gift is a multi sensory program that uses cutting edge technology combining visual and audio programming. The program has been created to be used easily and effortlessly.
The Gift gives you a safe and effective way to reduce your daily stress. Used regularly you will notice your life dramatically change for the better.
The Gift is totally unique and will offer you a healing philosophy that will ease you through the challenges that life presents to you.
The Gift is available for purchase on CD-ROM or as a download straight to your computer.
Minimum system requirements: 1GHz Pentium class PC, 100Mb Free RAM, 4x CD-ROM drive, 1024x768 min screen resolution, 24 or 32 bpp colour, Windows 2000/XP/Vista.
Testimonials for The Gift
"Less than a year ago, I was living in a world full of panic, fear and guilt. My breathing was some what of an erratic nature, I couldn't think straight, I feared facing the world and I had no energy left to survive alone. Seeking Stuart's support, I was introduced to 'The Gift'; initially this slowed my breathing down and brought my body to a far more relaxed state. Every day I used the gift to help me sleep and break free from the negativity I was feeling. As time went on things begun to change and I went from sharing accommodation to getting my own place, my confidence increased and I too deleted 'all negativity' around me. Having the gift gave me a support mechanism and feelings of hope; five months ago I met a wonderful person who has since helped me focus on what I want to achieve in the future and likewise listens to the gift in my company.
"Thank you Stuart, without the gift I would have never been able to 'delete my negative programming, in order to find peace, calmness and one of love...' all the affirmations found within the gift, I use daily and truly believe that 'a healing has begun'. I no longer live in a world full of anxiety and panic, but one of peace, love and relaxation....the gift has begun my journey into the future, where I now have energy to achieve my full potential. 'I am no longer alone' Thank you x"
Katy S
"I was indeed 'wonderfully relaxed' when I listened to and participated in The Gift CD by Stuart Morris. I began my session with a ball of tension in the back of my head and a tense neck, and recurring migraine, and long before I had finished, both problems had disappeared.
"As I worked with the 'The Gift', I could feel the tension in my body dissolve, and a great sense of warmth and peace suffuse my body as I relaxed into my chair.
Stuart uses Affirmations and a Breathing Exercise, along with a stunning visual of a sunset to help you to basically 'be here now', and incorporates visualisation and gentle physical touch to increase effectiveness.
"Stuart sees the answer to many of our health issues as being 'Love..the only true healing balm', and through experiencing The Gift, you can appreciate why."
Dianne
"I purchased a copy of the Gift Cd from Stuart and have found it a great help. The Gift has taught me to breath properly but so much more! I'm not sure how the technique works but the affirmations and counting the in and out breath has triggered something in my brain. The results have been truly phenomenal. My newly found optimistic outlook on life has had a fantastic impact on my personal life. Previously, I felt as though I was being pulled down by all the emotional baggage from my past relationships. This was having a big effect on my present relationship and not in a positive way.
"I would say that Stuart has helped me to get a stronger bond with my girlfriend as my relationship is now going from strength to strength. I can thankfully say, that with Stuart's guidance and by conscientiously listening to the Gift, I'm learning to trust again. My insecurities have disappeared. I feel 100 % better in myself.
"My life has changed immensely. I am much more assertive and my whole attitude to life has improved. I have become a more positive person.
"Hence, I'm so much happier with my life. My confidence has soared and my nervous cough has gone. I'm happy with my relationship with my girlfriend and my newly found confidence is fantastic. I'm no longer in the shadows at parties, I've found my voice! I'm also seeing a difference at work and feel that people are actually listening to me. It's a great feeling!
"Thank you Stuart for changing my life around for the better. I feel on top of the world. You have given me a wonderful gift : I'm now embracing my life rather than fearing it."
Clive
"The Gift… a truly wonderful opportunity to look into yourself and allow the realm of possibilities to flow freely. Create space each day to reap the rich rewards. Magnificent work Stuart."
Marie
"I have known Stuart Morris for many years and he has become a valuable friend when I'm in need of peace of mind. I have enjoyed receiving relaxing treatments from him and learning from his wisdom. Stuart has helped me through various crises and has helped to balance me on an emotional level.
"The Gift cd has been an empowering tool to enable me to heal on many levels. It's great to be able to continue the healing at home in my own special place. I have listened to The Gift twice a week for the last two months. I'm so impressed by it's results that I endeavour to listen to it on a daily basis. I've actually learned how to breath properly at 38 years old!
"At first, it can seem hard to find the time to sit down, on my own, with no interruptions just to focus on listening to The Gift and focus on my breathing. But you soon find time when you start to see results and the impact that The Gift has on the rest of your life. I now know that to heal fully, I need to make time for the Gift as it's essential for my growth. It is valuable for me to have this 'me time' and to listen and learn from Stuart's affirmations.
"I have found great personal benefits from listening to The Gift. Aside from the total peace and serenity that I feel whilst I'm concentrating on my breath, my whole mind feels calm. I have been able to slow down my chattering mind; something that I always thought would be imposssible as I'm a busy person leadind a full life!
"I also feel that The Gift has accelerated my healing. I'm much more forgiving and I tend to live more in the moment rather than focusing on my past fears. My husband died when I was just 30 years old and I think I was living too much in the past. I now embrace the day.
"My life has become much more organised and I'm dealing with all the clutter that I've had around me for years. The charity shops are doing well out of my transformation. I've even noticed that my dress sense is changing as I'm wearing more colourful clothes. My friends are observing all the positive changes in me and want their own life changing copies of the Gift!
"I would say that my life has definitely changed for the better from regularly listening to the gift. I'm extricating the negative friends that have held me back and now are embracing new friends into my life. Even today, I was on a course and made 4 new friends. It's great!
"Overall, I can definitely say my life has improved through simply listening to The Gift. New doors have been opened for me and I feel more in control of my own life. The guilt that I used to feel daily, has greatly diminished. I will continue to listen regularly to the Gift and wonder what other life changes are in store. I love all the changes : I love the new Julie.
"Thank you Stuart for sharing your 'Gift' with me."
Julie
"The Gift is a wonderfully relaxing and simply to use CD-ROM, set to a visually calm and peaceful backdrop. The on-screen affirmations creates a focal point that will allow you to change long held negative thoughts and beliefs into positive ones. So unplug the phone and enjoy 35 minutes of peace, calm tranquillity and allow the uplifting affirmations to permeate your mind, body and spirit"
Denise
To order a copy of The Gift CD-Rom please visit www.wonderfullyrelaxed.com
email: stuart@wonderfullyrelaxed.com
Call Stuart on 0121 246 3303 or 07734 459908
ANGELIC REIKI - THE NEW HEALING FOR OUR TIME
by Kay Zega
Hearts open to angels attract inner peace and divine magic
When you anchor the angelic vibration of divine unconditional love
into your own consciousness, you have the power to change your reality.
Angelic Reiki healing treatments - and training - are, therefore, transformational.
If you are reading this article, you are already responding to the soul call of the Angelic Kingdom.
Perhaps you are intrigued at all the excitement over Angelic Reiki - the very powerful yet simple healing and consciousness expansion modality which is rapidly attracting more and more people worldwide, not least because it is a tool of ascension - expanding consciousness, cutting karmic ties, shifting spiritual 'stuckness', emotional blocks, rigid mindsets, old thought forms not in tune with Divine Vibration and healing core issues that have their roots deep in the past.
Earth's vibrational rate, in other words its 'consciousness', has been increasing steadily in recent years - as those sensitive to energy know only too well! Therefore, the consciousness of all of Earth's inhabitants is being raised too. This acceleration has allowed the high, pure vibrations of the Angelic Kingdom to anchor on Earth to a far greater extent than ever before.
Interest in angels grows daily and their loving presence is unmistakable. Angels are messengers, guides, teachers; beings of light that emanate from a stream of consciousness outside of the dimensions known to human beings, able to transcend time and space as we know it. They are expressions of the Divine - whoever, whatever you perceive that to be. No religion or philosophy holds a unique key to spiritual enlightenment; we each find our own path to inner peace. That journey may include connection to angelic energies since belief in angels has formed part of humanity's spiritual quest down through the ages (and references to them can be found in every religion, every culture).
Angels have immeasurable love and compassion for us and are amassing to help as we search for deeper meaning to offset the shallowness of modern materialism, as we strive to stay positive in the face of 21st century stresses and strains, and as we cope with anxieties generated by the media's daily doses of 'bad news'.
Quantum physicists' research evidence illustrates clearly that fear lowers our vibrational rate and that anxiety triggers echoes of past traumas held at cellular level, making us more prone to illness. So don't give your power away to fear and negativity.
If you are bravely tackling painful issues rooted in the past, be gentle with yourself and remember that Angelic Reiki can help.
What is Angelic Reiki?
Angelic Reiki is a safe, natural, high frequency, multidimensional system of healing and consciousness expansion. It is one of the most powerful systems of healing available at this time, yet simple to learn and easy to use.
Angelic Reiki works at a Soul level, treating the cause of any condition, promoting very deep healing and transformation. During a treatment, both practitioner and recipient are connected to pure divine energy through the Angelic Kingdom of Light. This allows very high vibrational energies of Angels, Archangels, Ascended Masters and Galactic Healers to work to help release physical, ancestral, emotional and karmic imbalances across all time.
Practising and teaching Angelic Reiki, therefore, involves working hand-in-hand with the Angels in a unique, joyful way.
Who Founded Angelic Reiki?
As part of the ascension process, between October 2002 and February 2003, Archangel Metatron channelled the complete system of healing that is Angelic Reiki to Kevin Core, a British angelic healer, counsellor and inspirational spiritual teacher.
Kevin Core and his wife Christine now live in Luxor, Egypt. They teach internationally, and their work involves bringing spiritual truth to all who seek it.
How Does Angelic Reiki Differ from Usui and Other Forms of Reiki?
The main differences are:
To quote Kevin Core: "Angelic Reiki shares the characteristics of traditional Reiki in as much as it is a hands-on practice with the option of self-healing and distance treatments. Although it uses symbols common to other Reiki systems, the healing power of the Angelic Vibration sets it apart. This Divine Vibration attunes both the healer and client to their Soul energy, raising consciousness and re-awakening an awareness of what it is to be a divine being, whole and healthy and living in joy."
When learning Usui and other forms of Reiki, attunements are conducted by the Master/Teacher at whatever level of consciousness they have achieved. With Angelic Reiki, however, Angels (not the Master/Teacher) perform the attunements at pure, divine consciousness level.
There are four attunements leading up to mastery of the system. In addition, two Angelic attunements impact profoundly at molecular level, allowing the student to be energetically initiated into the Angelic Vibration of the Divine Archetypes upon which consciousness is based. This facilitates more perfect blending of their own energy with that of the Angels who are their constant companions.
What sets Angelic Reiki apart as a healing modality, therefore, is the pure divine vibration that is stepped down through the Angelic Kingdom during a treatment to focus powerfully on root causes. Each person responds to the divine vibration in accordance with their own level of development, and the healing vibration feels noticeably different to that of any other Reiki energy - whether you are a recipient or practitioner.
This does not detract from the power of Usui and other forms of Reiki healing. Each individual is attracted to the vibration of the system that best suits them.
Another difference is that, unlike most forms of Reiki, with Angelic Reiki there is no sequence of hand positions to learn and adopt.
Treatments
Angelic Reiki is a complete healing system direct from the angelic realms. It involves safe, natural, very pure angelic healing for any physical, mental, emotional or spiritual condition
During a treatment both client and therapist receive a down pouring of divine energy which raises their consciousness. Angels, archangels, ascended masters, galactic healers and other angelic expressions of the divine heal past memories of suffering, re-awakening an awareness of what it is to be a divine being, whole and healthy and living in joy. This causes old thought forms not in tune with the divine vibration to be dislodged and transmuted, relieving non-harmonious physical, emotional and mental conditions.
As a practitioner, it is important to look after your own health and wellbeing. As such you may wish to book an Angelic Reiki treatment to experience for yourself the benefits of this gentle yet enormously powerful holistic healing therapy.
For conditions that can benefit, for what happens during an Angelic Reiki treatment and for case studies see the Positive Health Magazine article www.positivehealth.com/author-view.php?authorid=1082
For testimonials from clients and students see www.angelic-healing.co.uk/ahtestimony.htm.
If you wish to experience the unique power of an Angelic Reiki healing treatment - which is unmistakeably different to any other healing treatment, a web search will help you locate a practitioner. If you would like to experience Angelic Reiki with me, it will be my pleasure to conduct an in-person or distant treatment for you.
Training
Each Angelic Reiki training course is certificated offering the option of working professionally with this complete system of unique healing. A CPD certificate is also provided as evidence of continuing personal development
Angelic Reiki attracts men and women from all walks of life to learn and use it. Those already involved in allopathic and holistic healthcare of humans and animals are drawn to this powerful healing modality to further their professional development. Others have no experience of complementary therapies but just know that Angelic Reiki is something they have to embrace now. So, on any course you could meet Reiki practitioners and masters, holistic therapists, doctors, nurses, vets, carers, hairdressers, solicitors, lorry drivers, businessmen and women . . . and parents of the 'new' (rainbow, crystal, indigo) children, all keen to integrate this unique, developmental system of healing, personal advancement and consciousness expansion.
There are no pre-requisites; all that's necessary is a desire to work with Angels for the highest good and a heart and mind open to do so.
Angelic Reiki training serves a number of purposes:
Continuous Professional Development to complement the holistic therapies you currently practise
Profound healing and consciousness expansion which occurs during each of the Level 1&2 Practitioner, the Level 3&4 Masters and the Master Teacher Update training courses
www.angelic-healing.co.uk/aharcourse12.htm, www.angelic-healing.co.uk/aharcourse34.htm, and www.angelic-healing.co.uk/aharcoursemtu.htm
Progression on to Angelic Reiki Master level for further personal, spiritual and professional development, if you have already been trained to Practitioner level in Angelic Reiki
Updating and enhancing your Angelic Reiki teaching and mastery through the Master Teacher Update, if you are already at Angelic Reiki Master level
see www.angelic-healing.co.uk/aharcoursemtu.htm
Preparing to teach Angelic Reiki by sitting in on and observing Level 1&2 and Level 3&4 Angelic Reiki courses
Guidance on Choosing an Angelic Reiki Teacher
One's introduction to Angelic Reiki is likely to be a deeply personal, life changing experience. As such, in choosing an Angelic Reiki Master Teacher it is important to find someone who feels right for you and also who, as Kevin & Christine Core, founders of Angelic Reiki say, follows "the basic essentials of Angelic Reiki to keep this system of healing as given by Archangel Metatron intact and complete as it was given."
If you would like guidance on choosing an Angelic Reiki teacher, see www.angelic-healing.co.uk/Articles/Guidance.pdf
If you feel drawn to learn Angelic Reiki with me, it will be an honour and privilege to introduce you to this life changing healing modality. I have spaces available on the 15-17 August 2008 Angelic Reiki Level 1&2 Practitioner course in Worcester the fee for which is £252.
I also have spaces available on the 26-28 September 2008 Angelic Reiki Level 3&4 Masters course, again in Worcester, the fee for which is £450. The fees of £252 for the Angelic Reiki Practitioner Level 1&2 and Masters Level 3&4 are set by the founders Kevin & Christine Core and apply worldwide.
If you find a course offered at less than these prices, check what you are getting and that the teaching meets the standards set by the founders. Teaching Angelic Reiki is a sacred responsibility and deserves the utmost respect.
Kevin & Christine Core have received reports that some teachers:
- have reduced the recommended duration of teaching to less than 2½ days for Level 1&2; 3 days for Level 3&4 Angelic Reiki
- are confusing their students by teaching Angelic Reiki more from their Usui understanding of Reiki than from the spirit of Angelic Reiki (which is only 20% Reiki through the symbols; 80% pure angelic energy)
- are changing aspects of the teaching and attunements
- are creating their own Angelic Reiki certificates and awarding these instead of the official internationally recognised certificates
- are splitting Angelic Reiki into 4 separate courses . . ..
As guidance, Kevin & Christine Core say that "There is no intention to control, only to maintain the integrity of Angelic Reiki. If somebody teaches Angelic Reiki substantially differently then whatever they are doing is fine and perfect, but it is NOT Angelic Reiki".
Conclusion
So, that's a little about the incredibly powerful yet simple system of healing Archangel Metatron calls "The New Healing for our Time".
- If you are searching for greater meaning
- If you feel dissatisfied, stuck, but unable to move on
- If you are ready to heal past karma and find inner joy
perhaps you are ready to re-awaken your divine awareness, to work towards becoming whole and healthy, and to embrace the absolute joy of working with the angelic realms through Angelic Reiki.
If so, contact Kay Zega on 01905 26002 or enquiries@angelic-healing.co.uk
Kay teaches all levels of Angelic Reiki in Worcester, Glastonbury and London - and in other countries by invitation.
Sound Therapy
Sound therapy is an alternative therapy that has been scientifically proven to help many people with various problems that occur in everyday life. It has been known to eliminate stress, sleep deprivation, depression, anxiety, repetitive strain injury, blood pressure and many other areas. It is a none contact therapy purely used with sound and not words.
Sound therapy not only works on your physical state of being, but also on deeper levels of emotional and mental release, plus, on a spiritual level of awareness. In sound therapy we work with the eight chakras which are energy points that run inline with the main organisms in your body, i.e. Heart, Liver, Digestive system, Adrenals and central Nerve System. These are situated within your Endocrine system where the chakras are based allowing the sounds to work directly with your body.
Sound therapy entrains the brain into a state where it can which off so the body can start to heal itself on all levels, when the brain is in this state it is not receiving information that will detract from the healing process and so, this is when the body can recharge itself properly. Sound therapy is, if nothing else a very relaxing treatment, and also affective when working on any level of being.
It has for many people released a lot of unwanted thoughts and emotions, the symptoms of these more often than not show on a physical level through tension and /or ailments, these can also be released if deeper work is needed. Spiritual awareness can also be something that is enhanced. Though we as therapists can never promise a cure, we do know from our own experience and that of others that sound therapy does work for most people so, if you think this kind of treatment will work for you please use the contact details given.
As with all therapies this one offers different experiences for different people and will cater for all. No one experience will be the same and some may experience a soothing and very relaxed feeling where as others may have something more intense. some may have physical sensations and some may get images at random or from past events. Some may have an emotional experience whereas others may experience something very spiritual. It really depends on the person but things like this will usually come up if something needs to be dealt with and shifted
Treatment structure
The treatment involves a combination for Tibetan bowls, voice and crystal bowls with grounding tools at the end.there will be a case study taken at the beginning and a feed back session at the end or the client to air anything they need to. Other than this there is no exchange of conversation during the session.
The treatment starts off with the use of a diagnostic tool or chime which is used to detect the areas of imbalance in your body. It will be used three times on the chakra system and then twice around the auric field. Once the areas of work needed are established a brief explanation of the connection for each chakra to be worked on will be given to you before the treatment begins.
The treatment will then go in four stages. To start with Himalayan bowl will be introduced to the ear three times. After that, a number of Himalayan bowls are used to massaged the auric field and work on the specific chakras that need work. The voice will be brought in gently and gradually take over, again, certain vowels are used that specifically relate to each of the chakras so the relevant ones will be used for a period of time before over toning is introduced. Over toning is where a note is heard above the main note that is been toned.
After this section the crystal bowls are gently brought in and like the voice they will take over. Each crystal bowl relates to each chakra and so, the relevant ones for the client will be used. At the end of this there will be a series of grounding tools used, starting from light tinkles that will gradually be brought into heaver, louder and faster sounds, these will also alter from abstract rhythms to ones with a regular beat.. When this section has ended there will be another scan with the diagnostic tool that will indicate whether there has been an improvement. This will show up in the alteration of sound.
The purpose for the structure of the treatment is to filter out the more dynamic and colourful tones so that you end up with cleaner tones by the end of the treatment. The reason for this is to shift any blocked energy that is trapped in the body and chakras with tones that are more dynamic in range. Once shifted, they are then filtered out with sounds and tones that are finer.
The reason for using the grounding tools is to bring the client back to a present alerted stated. The treatment can make you feel very spaced out, especially in the crystal bowl section, and if the client needs to drive home after a treatment then not been fully grounded can be detrimental so this is an important part of the treatment.
Himalayan Bowls
These bowls are the most dynamic in sound and tone colour. Some are very deep and resonant, and if they are used on the body they can give you a very soothing but powerful vibration through the body. They can be used on the body when there is pain in a particular area. They come in different sizes, and depending on the size, note and metal content some will be deeper, more resonant, rich and dynamic than others. Some are designed to be very high pitched and are not as colourful as others.
Each of these bowls will have a note that corresponds with each chakra, i.e. a Himalayan bowl with the note 'E' will be used for the solar plexus chakra, where as the one for the heart will be 'F'
Himalayan bowls are made with a number of metals and each bowl will have these to varying degrees with no one been the same. It is surprising how many metals there are, and these are what contribute to the dynamic range of colour and tone.
Iron, mercury, tin, silver, gold, copper, zink are the metals found in Himalayan bowls.
There is unfortunately very little that we know of these bowls other than they are made and used by the Tibetan monks. People over the years have tried to find out what they were used for and how but the response has been very vague, we were told that they were used to drink and eat out of leaving us unconvinced so other than that it is a mistry and we can only assume that they are used for a very sacred purpose that is not to be shared. We do know however that they have healing properties, not only in the sound but in the metals, and it is thought that to drink from these bowls gives the water healing properties. In which case it seems as if these bowls have been made with an intent and a purpose, some more than to use for drink and food.
Voice
The voice has always been a powerful instrument used by many not only in mainstream music but also for a healing purpose. Even in mainstream music, using the voice has the power to transport and heal people, so with a specific intent in doing this then it is even more potent.
When using the voice in sound therapy the sound is directed through the hand chakras of the therapist into the chakras of the client. The voice is used with vowels that relate to each of the chakras and is also used in varying pitches depending on what the client needs. The voice can be used to calm the chakras if the energy is over active, as well as stimulate them if sluggish.
Used in this way the voice can help to shift blocked energy that may be trapped on a mental, emotional and/or physical level. It is a clearer tone that is not as dynamic as the Himalayan bowl, but it does have over tones that are used in the second part of treatment. Again depending on the client certain vowels are used with over toning to even out the bodies energy and to shift anything that is not needed.
Over toning is what you will hear a Tibetan monk use. When using this you will hear one or more notes over the note the therapist is toning. This particular method is used over all the body and the auric field but not directed specifically into the chakras.
Crystal bowls
These are the clear one tone sounding bowls. These are the ones that can make you feel spaced out, sleepy, floating on clouds. They can also dehydrate you and plenty of water after the treatment is recommended. They can also make you feel cold which is a natural reaction when your body goes into a deep state and the bodies energy goes inward for the healing process.
This section is probably the most potent of the three as the crystal bowls have a long sustain and a big reverberation, especially when the bigger ones are used. Some stand a foot high and the biggest size is 22cm, so you can imagon how emence the sound can be. When used, each one has a note that relates to each chakra so if your base chakra needs work then a crystal bowl tuned to the note 'C' will be used.
Also, the crystal bowls can be used to create intervals. These are used to create moods. So for instance, if a client is feeling depressed the intervals will be created to lift their mood. If a client comes to a treatment with some very dense blocked energy on an emotional level then an interval will be created to help shift this. Intervals can also be used to kill off cancerous cells in the body. Most of these bowls sit on the floor as they are generally too big and heavy to hold, but there are bowls with handles that the therapist holds when working specifically on the auric field.
Grounding Tools
This is a very essential part of the treatment as the grounding tools are what bring you back into a present alerted state where you can once again function in the every day world. Without this, the client would be in danger if having to drive or to do anything that required consentration. You cannot do anything without finishing it off and the grounding section of the treatment is the finishing product that makes the whole. Some clients don't want to be grounded and would love to stop in the sace which the sounds create and have been very put out when the grounding tools have started but it is an absolute most.
Again, some people will need this more than others, if the client is very down to earth and practical minded then it will not be very hard to ground them, but if a very sensitive phcycic client comes to you , or someone who wants to escape from reality has this treatment then the grounding section will need to be far more in tense.
The grounding tools consist of light and heavy bell like instruments to start off a gentle process. Note, nothing in this treatment will be jarring, the whole point is for it to run smoothly from one section to another almost to the point where it is not noticed at first. If anything were jarring and the sections moved sharply from one to the other, the client would constantly be taking out of the healing process and to ground a client too soon would not be a pleasant experience either.
After the bell instruments, other light and none musical shakers will be used such as rain sticks and egg shakers which are commonly used as percussive instruments. The shakers of this kind will gradually get heaver, louder, faster and more rhythmic as the different ones are used. This method encourages the client to come back in a pleasurable way without the experience been evasive. Using the rhythms can really uplift and activate the client and many people love the experience.
For further information or to book a treatment please call Zara Triconnet
on 0121 7063618 or 07565704408
email: salbough@hotmail.com
TOOLS FOR ABUNDANCE
BY
TOM T. MOORE
COPYRIGHT 2008
There are tools that you can use for having abundance in your life that you might not be aware of. They include: astrology, recording dreams, meditating, requesting Benevolent Outcomes, and expecting great things. Here's how I've utilized them.
When I was 17, I decided I wanted to be worth one million U.S. dollars by the time I was thirty. I had to work in a supermarket my last two years in high school just to pay for my first year of college. Even with a small band scholarship I had to live illegally in the dormitory the first year. I earned money in college washing dishes, selling men's clothes, and as an apprentice electrician. My major was Finance, as I thought that would surely help me achieve my goal.
My first career took off after I returned to Dallas following my Army discharge in the late 1960's. I started a tour company—a singles snow ski club. One day I picked up the local newspaper and read a story about a local astrologer that was predicting the Dallas Cowboys football team would not go to the Superbowl that year, but he did say they would go the following year. I had never read anything like that, so I tore the page out and put it in a desk drawer.
At the end of the football season he had been approximately 80% correct. I didn't know how he was able to do that, but I reserved 300 airline seats from Dallas to Miami, Florida for the next Superbowl.
I also started having my ski club parties on days with beneficial aspects. This became my first tool for abundance. The ski club grew and I had many more people on the ski trips. The following January the Dallas Cowboys did go to the Superbowl for the first time, and I was the first tour operator in Dallas to ever run a trip to the Superbowl. I made quite a bit of money—enough to purchase our first duplex—and start a travel agency. My company evolved into a wholesale and eventually international wholesale tour company.
In 1979 I started recording my dreams on a daily basis. Soon I had a vivid dream of an explosion and a woman and some men involved. It was so vivid that my wife and I changed the itinerary of a trip to Manila for a conference and added extra days to Taiwan and Hong Kong.
The first day of the conference terrorists exploded a bomb in the front of the hall where I normally like to sit. They arrested a woman from the Philippine trade office in Los Angeles and four men. After that I've recorded my dreams every single morning, keeping a dream journal, flashlight, and a dreamer's dictionary handy. I've had many precognitive dreams since then, many about my business-- another tool for abundance.
After selling our tour company, I began licensing films and TV programs internationally. The business grew and I thought that was the only thing I would be doing until retirement. But then I read an article by Robert Shapiro who channeled that you could request benevolent events to happen in your life; I decided to try it out and it worked PERFECTLY! From small things like requesting a Benevolent Outcome for a parking space to really big things in my business. I would simply say, "I request a Most Benevolent Outcome (to or for)…., thank you!" and it was magical what would happen. But I seemed to be the only one out there doing this and it made we wonder why.
Eventually, during a Dick Sutphen seminar in Sedona, Arizona, when we were put into an altered state, I contacted a Shaman living in the 1600's and he told me I had been a Shaman then, and that I had reincarnated in the 20th century to "reintroduce" people to THE GENTLE WAY. This became the title of the book he said I was supposed to write. Was I surprised! But I did write it and found a publisher. And I continued my "active" meditations as I call them where I constantly ask questions about the world and my life—a great tool to use!
The last tool I'll mention I just discovered recently. Each morning I say, "I'm EXPECTING great things today, great things tomorrow, and great things all this week, thank you!" I'm told in my "active" meditations that this opens the door for your own Guardian Angel to be creative in assisting you. You'll be amazed at the results you'll have by saying this each day.
So you have many tools to assist you in this life. You can stay on that dusty, rocky road, or try a different path and explore! Have a great life!
About the Author
Tom Moore is an entertainment industry CEO, who distributes motion pictures and TV programs internationally. His book, The Gentle Way: A Self-Help Guide For Those Who Believe in Angels (ISBN # 1-891824-60-0, Light Technology) gives many more suggestions for Benevolent Outcomes. Visit his website at www.TheGentleWayBook.com.
Take responsibility for yourself,
don’t expect someone else to do it for you
The content of this article has been prompted by a series of conversations that my sister and myself have had with very sincere people we have met during our journey. These are intelligent people who have missed the point by not understanding that they have to do work on themselves in order to move on. The people tend to fall into three main categories.
The first are the many people who believe they have taken responsibility for their own health and well-being by making the change from allopathic medicine to alternative therapies. Many of these may then become therapist dependant because they expect the therapist to come up with all the answers and take on the responsibility for their progress physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually without realising that they themselves have to do the work. So all they have really done is change the name of the person they have designated as being responsible for their well being.
The second category are intelligent, thoughtful people who are seriously involved in their health and particularly their spiritual progress. They visit therapist after therapist looking for the magic words or the magic therapy which will heal them without any noticeable participation on their part. Seeking such a solution they are likely to become interested in any ‘new’ process which they believe will enable them to magically be healed and/or moved on spiritually. Such processes may include the saying of certain words, numbers or phrases, drawing shapes in the air-or a combination of all of these things. It may be that they do in fact feel better after some of these things have taken place. However, because they have not addressed the root causes of their problems, any feeling of well being will be short lived. These same people may also go to workshop after workshop believing that the facilitator has caused them to clear lots of their issues because they have benefited from the energy there. It may be that by using the energy of fellow participants a very good facilitator is able to get this to occur in part too. Many people may mistakenly believe that they have healed themselves and moved on spiritually because they have read all of the books, been to all of the workshops and embraced every new idea. They then look at themselves and wonder where to go next because they are still not healed and are still striving to be spiritual and become enlightened!
I am not here to denigrate the work of people who run workshops or do anything to help other people. This is about the idealogy and thoughts of many of the people who participate. It is true that many workshops are informative and invaluable in the spreading of new thought and ideas. However, some are just that - words which will have little lasting effect unless some healing takes place too. My sister and I ran Inner Child workshops for a time in which we taught people, then reconnected them to their inner child whilst also using our energy to enable some inner child issues to surface to be healed and released.
The third category of people are the ones who are already therapists. They will have learned a great deal and are very good at what they do. Many of these people become so involved in helping others that they forget two important things. First, that many if not most therapists are drawn to a particular therapy not only because it resonates with them, but also because they themselves also need healing. Secondly, they become so involved in helping others that they either forget that they themselves also need to do the work in order to heal and move on or they may mistakenly believe that because of the work they do they are somehow immune! Worse still for their development, they may not be open to ideas which lead to spiritual expansion or healing because they may mistakenly think they have all the answers already, not realising that learning , evolving and spiritually progressing never stop.
Well, I am here to tell you folks that for categories of people highlighted above as well as for everyone else - it just ain’t that easy folks!
Taking responsibility for yourself may indeed mean that you engage a therapist who will give you pointers and guidance to enable you to uncover, clear and heal the layers of unresolved issues which lead to great emotional and physical pain resulting in illness in some form . However, the difference that I am trying to show you here is that the therapist is only an enabler and cannot do it for you!
Just talking about things and revisiting painful episodes in your life may not release enough for the healing to take place either. You have to learn how to identify and release the emotions surrounding the painful events in your life for yourself. You have to own up to every thought and feeling involved in any painful episode and event however big or seemingly small, feel the emotion for a few short moments and then allow it to move up through the heart and eventually out through the crown chakra. Of course you will need help and support to do this and of course you will need to be taught how to do this.
This is where the true role of a good therapist comes in. A good therapist not only facilitates healing but also empowers people by showing them how to help themselves whilst offering encouragement and support. A good therapist does not encourage people to become dependent on him or her (because it is financially rewarding or because it makes them feel they are needed). A good therapist knows when to step back and let you fly by yourself!
Working on yourself as described above is only the beginning of your healing .It can be a time consuming and sometimes painful job. However, you have to decide if you wish to stay where you are, stuck and in pain, or if you wish to move on into your future without the pain. Only you can decide. Remember you owe it to yourself to honour and value yourself enough to take the necessary steps to own up to what your issues and baggage are. Then from there to take the steps to really do something about it yourself without expecting someone else to do it for you because you haven’t got time or you think it doesn’t matter. This is really taking responsibility for yourself!
Remember though, that all those issues and pain do not go away just because you choose not to address them. They cannot be ignored for ever and will cause you to ‘run into that brick wall’ sooner or later and when you do you will not be able to help anyone, else least of all yourself!
Sue Stothard
Unfolding Enlightenment
www.unfoldingenlightenment.co.uk
www.rosecottagefloweressences.co.uk