Sound Goddess Musings

“Ah, music, sacred tongue of God! I hear thee calling and I come.”
Confucius

The goddess energy influences my life every day. I cherish the magic found in the moments. I revere the elements and their life affirming qualities: from the Air that we breathe to the wind in the trees; from the steadying influence of the Earth beneath our feet to her endless bounty; from a refreshing slake of Water that nourishes our body to the cleansing rains that fall from the heavens; from the rays of sun that warm us to the hearth Fire that burns within and without.

I am amazed by the intricacies of our bodies. Our heart pumps blood, our lungs expand and contract with air, our organs filter impurities, our cells renew, healing our bodies naturally. Our thoughts create and manifest that which we desire. We are energy and vibration, bonded to one another and the Universe by an invisible force. When in balance, we enjoy peace and joy, the yin-yang of nature. We honor both the Divine Masculine and Divine Feminine. We are in harmony with each other and the world around us.

I muse on my sound work and how it elicits a moment of peace in a chaotic world. It is elemental. As I mindfully “stir” my bowls, I awaken song and vibration. Magic is created as the sound enters the body, soothing, healing. It travels from the vagus nerve to feed our organs. As we become entrained to the sound, our blood pressure reduces, our immunity improves, the mind quiets, the ego drops away, and we reconnect with all that is, restoring balance to body, mind and spirit.

I am grateful to have found a way to serve humanity doing something I love, to fulfill my Dharma. Blessings to you on your journey. May you too find the path that leads you to a place of happiness and ease of being.

What a long, strange trip it’s been!

“Sometimes the light’s all shinin’ on me.
Other times, I can barely see.
Lately, it occurs to me,
What a long, strange trip it’s been.”
Grateful Dead

What a year we’ve had with a pandemic, wild fires, a divided country. We’ve lost hundreds of thousands of precious lives, and watched hundreds of thousands of acres go up in flames. Our economy is in tatters; businesses have shuttered. We shelter at home, wear masks, socially distance, telecommute and home-school our children. We are plugged in more than ever, to entertain ourselves, keep in touch with one another, and watch for what is next. Our trust in humanity is continually tested as political vitriol, crazy conspiracy theories, talk of civil war, and lies about the fabric of who we are spread.

These events have left many of us emotionally, physically, and spiritually exhausted. We’ve had to seek new ways to restore our Spirit. Some of us have found a new kind of freedom, the opportunity to be in the moment, to embrace that which is most important to us. As our support systems shrink, the moments we spend with loved ones are valued more than ever. We take on-line classes, attend Zoom cocktail parties, we chat on the phone for hours. I personally have rediscovered my passion for art and reading. I’ve enjoyed gardening, healthy meals, meditation, and camping. I also miss hugging, meeting friends in person, and gathering with our spiritual community.

Like many small businesses, Body and Hearth has been affected too. Just as we realized our dream to create sacred space in old Fair Oaks, COVID came along.

A few months earlier at a holiday luncheon, a friend and associate asked if we might be interested in the space next door to her in Fair Oaks Village. For years, my business partner Marion and I had looked at spaces in the village, but nothing ever seemed to work out.

When I saw the space, my heart went pitter pat. It was located in an old theater building.  The building façade is Streamline Moderne, a style that evolved from the Art Deco movement. For those who know me personally, you know that I love history, antiques, and that era in particular. The back of the building is a Quonset hut. To the side is a beautiful, fenced courtyard. The front door, with glass block sidelights, opens to Fair Oaks Park. The space boasts a wall of lit display shelves, with storage, built-in niches, and a separate bathroom. Though it is essentially a one-room studio (no separate treatment rooms), we decided it was just too beautiful to pass up.

In March, we signed a lease and applied for local business licenses. By mid-month, I had moved all my furnishings. My sister helped me unpack and display product. I was so happy!  I had appointments lined up, events scheduled. Artists were waiting in the wings eager to teach art classes when we opened in April.

That same month, COVID hit. The state issued guidelines that prevented private sessions and gatherings. Month-after-month, we held hope that we could open our doors. Classes, private sessions, and special events were scheduled, postponed, and ultimately cancelled. Concerned for the safety of our clients and ourselves, we accepted that we may not be able to open for the term of the lease.

But I have a secret! The new space is magical! I make a point of going to the studio every week or so to clean, play my instruments, meet a friend, hang outside. More often than not, I run into someone. I meet neighbors, old friends. The musicians upstairs have hosted musical events from their balcony. One friendly passer-by, an artist who had relocated from San Francisco, ended up renting the free-standing art studio in the courtyard after I told him about it. Our landlord, of Doggles fame (goggles for dogs), has taken this opportunity to bring her own dreams to life. She is in the process of creating an events center in the back that will feature music, dance, art. All are near and dear to my heart.

As we wait to see what the future holds, I remain ever hopeful as well as pragmatic. I truly love our space, our little community, and can envision what can be. I’m also realistic about what it takes to keep moving forward. So in these challenging times, I humbly remain open to what is next, and “just keep truckin’ on.”

May you be safe. May you be well. May you have ease of being.

The Magic of A Little, A Lot

“Let the beauty we love be what we do.
There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground.” 
Rumi

This past year, I’ve rediscovered the joy of creating art and gardening. Music has become a staple again in our household. These activities have helped me to not just get through each day, but to enjoy my time sheltering at home. In this ever-changing world, it’s important that we stay centered, nourish our souls, and embrace the moments. With that in mind, here are some practices to support mind, body, and spirit. Add your own. Then practice a little, a lot – every day.

Affirm. Practice loving-kindness. Sit comfortably, take a few deep breaths, connect with your heart center, and slowly repeat, either aloud or in your mind, “May I be happy. May I have ease of being.” Send blessings to the world, “May all beings be happy. May all beings have ease of being.”

Breathe. Consciously breathe to relieve stress. Slowly breathe in through your nostrils and out through your mouth. Repeat at least three times.

Create. Get into the zone with a hobby, art, crafts, music, gardening, writing, cooking.

Divine. Connect with your higher power. Pull a Rune or oracle card. Contemplate its meaning.

Enjoy. Delight in each new bloom in the garden, yak with a friend, savor the taste of a homemade goody, laugh at the antics of children and animals.

Feng Shui. Invite fresh, new energy into your home. Clear clutter, clean, (re)decorate, make your home a sanctuary for your soul.

Gratitude. Count your blessings. Be grateful for the little things – a roof over your head, food on your table, your health, family, friends, and pets.

Heal. Establish a healthy routine. Eat wholesome foods at regular intervals, take your supplements, move your body, keep up with your chores, get plenty of rest. Treat yourself to a salt- or essential oil-infused bath when you need to relax and release.

Intention. Set a positive intention on the New Moon. Put it in writing. Release it to the Universe as you envision your wish coming true.

Joy. Play music, dance, sing, laugh, spread positivity.

Know You Are Not Alone. We are all in this together. It’s okay to reach out.

Love. Feel the compassion within. Say a kind word to another. Send a card to someone who is alone. Hug a member of your pod.

Music. Put on some music. Drift away with the melody and lyrics.

Outdoors. Commune with Mother Nature. Drink in the beauty, textures, scents, and movement of the great outdoors.

Play. Celebrate the child within! Be silly, play a game or an instrument, color.

Quiet Your Mind. Sit in silence for five minutes, focusing on your breath. Allow any thoughts to come in and go out. Enjoy the peace of being.

Receive. Be open to messages and opportunities. Accept the gifts that come your way. Express gratitude for what you have.

Release. Let go of negativity. Redirect anxiety.  Journal, walk, move. Let it go!

Seek. Pursue your passions. Attend online classes. Read, learn, grow.

Trust. We will get through this – together!

Unwind. Sip some Joe, take a nap, watch a feel-good movie, read a book. It’s okay!

Values. Maintain values and thoughts that support the planet and well-being of all!

Wizardry. Connect to your inner God/dess. Create an altar. Make a wish and light a candle.

Xpress Yourself with Zest for All That Is!

Awakening

“You are a light that cannot darken. You are a soul that shines through.
You are eternal amid the moment. You are awakening. You are love.” 
Creig Crippen

The holistic arts I have been drawn to came as a natural evolution to my spiritual awakening as a healer, alchemist, and “goddess.” I came to know the truth that was embedded deep in my soul through many lifetimes. I rediscovered the natural rhythms of life that were revered and celebrated by my ancestors. I began to trust my intuition and our innate abilities to manifest that which is desired.  I embraced the Divine within. As I better understood and connected to the energies around me, I was filled with greater purpose, lightness of being, and connection to All That Is.

As you walk your path, may each day bring wondrous self-discovery, joyful inspiration, and wisdom.  May your words and actions be guided by loving-kindness.  May you embody the Universal Spirit that binds us.  May peace, love, and light guide your way.

A Heart-felt Thank You

“Strange is our situation here on Earth. Each of us comes for a short visit, not knowing why, yet sometimes seeming to divine a purpose. From the standpoint of daily life, however, there is one thing we do know: that man is here for the sake of other men – above all for those upon whose smiles and well-being our own happiness depends.”
 Albert Einstein

I just wanted to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for your love and support throughout the years. I recognize that life provides both great happiness and challenges for each and every one of us. Each experience shapes who we are. The joyful moments warm our hearts and energize us. Quiet times allow us to reflect and recharge. Adversity provides opportunity to increase our wisdom, compassion, and appreciation for life and the people in it. I am deeply grateful for your presence in my life and humbled by your kindness.

A Bump in the Road

In October, 2014, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Like a grain of sand in the oyster, I believe the tumor grew out of my work experiences. The pancreas relates to the sweetness of life. During the last few years of my corporate career, the sweetness had all but disappeared. The Universe intervened, and I ended up leaving Corporate to focus on finding my joy again through healing myself and others.

I am one of the lucky ones. My cancer was diagnosed in its early stages. When I experienced chest, arm, and shoulder pain, my doctor sent me for a heart work-up. The tests showed that my heart was strong, but there was an “incidental find” of a pancreatic growth. The growth was biopsied. It was a benign cyst. Annual scans were scheduled to watch for changes.

After missing an annual scan, I dropped a tall glass of water on my big toe. Amazingly, the glass did not break, but the blackened toenail concerned me enough to schedule an appointment with my doctor. My doctor joked that she was glad I dropped the glass on my toe because it brought me in so we could schedule that scan!

This time, the scan showed that the cyst had grown. A biopsy revealed that I had a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, a rare form of cancer. I was scheduled to see a surgeon to remove the tumor, part of my pancreas, and my spleen. Though, I was terrified of the diagnosis and surgery, in an email to family, friends, and colleagues, I described my hiatus as “a bump in the road.”

While I was coming to terms with the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis, the Universe was at work once again. Appointments were scheduled and rescheduled from one doctor to another by my HMO. My surgical date was postponed, providing opportunity to get a second opinion. These changes, which could be viewed as annoying or disruptive, were blessings that led to choosing the right healing team for me.

Meanwhile, Earth Angels intervened in my healing. My friend and business partner called to schedule a lunch date. I offered three possible dates. She responded that she would be over on all three days to give me Reiki the week before my surgery!

In a leap of faith, I let family, friends, colleagues, and even Facebook acquaintances know about my diagnosis and surgery. The outpouring of healing thoughts and love was humbling and gave me strength as I faced what lie ahead.

As surgery approached, I did self-Reiki with guided imagery, imagining that I was surrounded by friends and family, as skilled nurses and doctors worked on me, creating a successful outcome. Friends created prayer circles with the same energy.

The surgery went well. There were no complications – as the first surgeon I saw suggested there would be. My new surgeon and his staff were compassionate and reassuring, visiting me in the hospital each day that I was there. While the hospital stay was miserable and the nursing teams variable, it provided a new level of empathy for those who are dependent on others for their care.

Once I returned home, the healing accelerated at an incredible rate! My husband, daughter, family, and friends continued to provide loving support. My Reiki family came to my home to share a feast and lay their healing hands on me to quicken my recovery. I did self-Reiki and played my Himalayan bowls nearly every day. By eight weeks, I was released to normal activities.

During my recuperation, my surgeon called me at home to tell me that the biopsy showed that the tumor was cyst-like (encapsulated) and that it looks like he got it all! He told me that I would probably look back on this whole incident as “a bump in the road.”

And so we’ve come full circle in this tale. I am deeply aware that circumstances vary greatly from one person to the next. I have seen disease take beautiful friends who have had the right attitude and done all the “right” things. But for some reason, I was spared. I had the good fortune to heed the Universe’s messages. I believe that the Reiki, prayers, intention, and the outpouring of support contributed to easing my fears and speeding my recovery. The experience reinforced how precious life is, the healing power of love and the collective consciousness, and that the Divine is omnipresent within each and every one of us.

May you be ever conscious of these simple truths. May your days be filled with an abundance of health, joy, love, and light.

Namasté

“My soul recognizes your soul.
I honor the love, light, beauty, truth, and kindness within you,
Because it is also within me.
In sharing these things, there is no distance and no difference between us.
We are the same. We are one.”

I remember a few years back at my little Gallery and Gathering Place proclaiming, “I’ve found my tribe!” I was ecstatic because after years of soul-searching and feeling quite alone at times, I felt like I finally belonged. I was hanging with people on a daily basis that filled my heart with love and joy.

These people come from every walk of life – deeply spiritual and just testing the waters, highly intellectual and completely down-to-Earth, naughty and nice. We attended classes together, we debated, we laughed, we healed. We raised the roof with drumming and melted into the floor during meditations. What we all have in common is a sense of acceptance, an openness to alternative thought and holistic lifestyles, and a profound belief in an all pervasive Spirit that resides in each of us and connects to all.

I continue to dabble quietly in the healing, spiritual, and creative arts. I find such pleasure in doing these things and seeing friends who regularly grace my life. But as the months and years pass, I also miss the many wonderful people who are part of our larger tribe. I treasure the times we have spent together. My heart swells with love for you. I miss you and hope that our paths will cross again some day, whether in person or from afar. For it is in these moments that our souls are stirred and we invoke that deep connection to one another, to our Universal Tribe. Namaste, my friends.

Warm Your Soul

Fall is my favorite time of the year. Change is all around as the air cools and nature puts on a dazzling show of color for us. As the world changes around us, we undergo transformation too. We pull out our warmer clothing (which may have a Halloween costume in the mix!) Our senses are aroused with the aroma of steaming soups, stews, cinnamon, pumpkin, and apple pie. We fluff our nests in anticipation of family gatherings and the cold months ahead. We may go within both physically and emotionally, in rhythm with nature, to enjoy the quiet pleasures of life.

“Wishing you always
Walls for the wind, a roof for the rain, and tea beside the fire.
Laughter to cheer you. Those you love near you
And all that your heart may desire.”
Irish Blessing

 

Smile on Your Brother

“C’mon people now.
Smile on your brother
Everybody get together
Try to love one another right now.”
The Youngbloods

I adore my spiritual family, the many spiritual seekers and friends I’ve made along my path, my tribe. The Gallery and Gathering Places (and places I’ve worked since) really opened the floodgate, bringing many wonderful people into my life. It is absolutely exhilarating to share alternative thought and spiritual beliefs with kindred spirits! I am so grateful for their presence in my life.

Yet like any family, religious group, or corporate boardroom, there’s another side too. For example, there’s the spirit-talk. Conversations are often full of words and phrases like enlightened, conscious, high vibration, non-judgment, and unconditional love. There are also references to others (even those on a spiritual path) as having dark energy, attached to ego, or unawake.

And like organized religion, there are an abundance of holistic and spiritual practices out there and lots of strong opinions to go with them: “Your practice is not authentic.” “What is your lineage?” “That has a lower vibration.” In other words, “I am superior.”

Recently I heard a comment that someone was too grounded in this world. (Spirit-ese translation: Not very spiritual.) And that’s okay. There are some people who are all logic, some whom Spirit completely eludes, or others who are just dipping their toe in. But there’s another side to that too. Sometimes being grounded in reality is a boon! I often feel most connected to the infinite joy within – not when I’m focusing on meditation or how I can access the Akashic Records – but when I’m in my own backyard, sipping a cup of Joe with my beloved at my side, watching the dogs romp, and the hummingbirds chase one another. Or feeling that heart-connection when I speak to my daughter on the phone, whooping it up at rock concert, or being naughty with friends. I sometimes even enjoy the peace that comes with doing chores (“Wax on, wax off.”)

Now, lest you believe that I think I’m above it all, I certainly am not. I’ve learned to speak Spirit-ese quite well, thank you. I’ve dismissed perfectly good healing practices as “too left brained”, and I’ve argued that the Tao existed before other practices (though I’m not absolutely certain;). I occasionally “dish” with friends and think it’s healthy to vent at times.

The bottom line is that we are all “helplessly, hopelessly human!” (Thank you, Don Fox.) No matter how “elevated” we may appear, within most of us there’s a fragile human being still striving to overcome hurt, anger, and insecurities. Sometimes it’s difficult to speak our truth, forgive someone, or find that place within to love unconditionally.

We can start healing with a little self-acceptance and forgiveness. We are, after all, only human. Then we can do our human best to walk our paths with tolerance and acceptance of others. We are each wonderfully unique – and in this together. That means some of us walk a little slower, while others race. Some of us get sidetracked by life, while others jetison to the treasure. Some of us walk daily; others don’t get out much. Others would rather not walk at all!

Now, repeat after me, “It’s all good!”

I’ve Got the Music in Me

Anyone who knows me knows that music is a huge factor in my life. A phrase or situation can cause me to break into song, sometimes with words I make up to suit the situation. On any given day, there’s usually a song playing in my head, which may manifest into humming while I go about my business. If you hitch a ride with me, I’ll probably turn on the ignition and promptly turn down the radio so we can hear each other talk! The Saturday Blues Show is a staple in my household – and splurging on an occasional concert is money well-spent. Okay, and yes, I’m a wannabe musician. Every once in awhile, I’ll bring out my uke or electric piano to play a few very elementary tunes.

So is it any wonder that some of my favorite holistic activities involve sound? The first time I attended a drum circle, I was amazed at the synergy that occurred during each set – and how relaxed and “in the moment” I felt throughout. Some crystal bowl meditations literally knock me out, taking me into a deep meditative state. I love the vibration of bowls, tuning forks, and toning in my body during a sound healing class, meditation, or session. Because we got to chant, sing, and bang our drums, of course, Karuna Reiki and Reiki Drumming were very special classes for me.

Inspired by these events, I acquired a nice little collection of instruments throughout the years – drums, flutes, rattles, bells, crystal and Tibetan bowls – which for the most part joined the other instruments in my guest room closet, being brought out only for the occasional drum circle, Feng Shui clearing, or personal “musical interlude.” Then one day Marion suggested I bring my crystal bowl to our Reiki Healing Gatherings. Before I knew it, my crystal bowl was joined by the myriad of Himalayan bowls and temple bells Marion and I had accumulated. I would intuitively spin, gong, ring, moving healing vibration around and through everyone and everything within earshot. The hours just slipped away. Not only did I love what I was doing, but our audience enjoyed the healing energy too!

Unlike my other passions, where I love the practice but shrink from “getting out there,” traveling from my home to midtown for a class or event feels less daunting when sound is involved; cleansing and packing my babies for a healing session is truly a pleasure; and sharing the beautiful sound and vibrational healing with others is sheer joy. An added benefit is that playing the bowls allows me to move about, which is vital to someone who has difficulty sitting still for any length of time.

Above all, sound is an incredible healing modality. It is organic. Our bodies are water, vibration – and sound! Sound heals at a cellular level. It touches our very souls. It connects us to the Divine. When our body is in disharmony, disease occurs. Sound brings our cells back into harmony, like a beautiful, fine-tuned orchestra. It calms and soothes. The moment I invite a bowl to sing, I instantly feel its effects – and it stays with me for hours! Those who experience sound healing for the first time often break out in a big grin, as the vibration brings imbalances back into harmony and joy! As we follow the sound with our minds, we eventually slip into a peaceful Theta state. In this perfect place, our frequency elevates and we connect to our Spirits, to all that is.

In thinking about my affinity with sound, I reflect on my journey as a healer. With my love of creating sacred space at home, Feng Shui was a natural for me. As one who recognizes the importance of loving touch, Reiki felt right too. My interest in ancient history, feminism, and the arts influenced my path as a goddess. When exploring angel archetypes, it was Archangel Gabriel who “spoke” to me. Gabriel provides support to those whose life purpose involves communication, music, writing, teaching, the arts. Is it any wonder that “I’ve got the music in me?!”

Feng Shui in Motion: The Synergy of Change

“The point of Feng Shui is to harness and enhance environmental chi
to improve the flow of chi within our bodies, thus improving life and destiny.”
Professor Lin Yun

My husband and I have been working on our home. Each change we make seems to shift another area for the better. Fresh paint and a new overhead for our deck led to wonderful, unexpected changes in our entry and garden. Making room for a new piece of furniture caused a decorating flurry that freshened nearly every room of our house. Meanwhile, my life is transitioning to a new phase in a peaceful way.

This is Feng Shui in action. As we move out the old, we make room for the new. Clutter is stuck energy. When you feel like you can’t move forward, take a look at your home. Are there pockets of stuck energy? If you have clutter, make a commitment to clear it out. Have you been ignoring the burnt out light bulb or running toilet. Take a minute to fix it. Now, give your home a good cleaning. Sit down, look around, breathe in. Aaah. Feels wonderful, doesn’t it?

Our surroundings make a huge difference in how we feel and perceive the world. As our perceptions change, so do our lives. As you practice Feng Shui, you may find that life flows a little easier. You feel less stressed. As you let go, new wonderful experiences come to you.

Your home is a reflection of you. Make it your sanctuary.

 Like A Phoenix Rising

Our passions are the true Phoenixes.
When the old one is burnt out, a new one rises from its ashes.
Johann von Goethe

The mythical Phoenix is a sacred bird with fiery plumage and an enchanting song. Its shimmering feathers of red and gold so dazzled the Sun that the Sun gifted the Phoenix everlasting life. The Phoenix was overjoyed to hear this – but not for long, as he avoided entrapment by men who sought his colorful feathers for their own.

The Phoenix flew away to a hidden desert in the East where the sun rose and no humans lived. He sang with joy and knew peace for 500 years. Though he was destined to live forever, he had grown old, tired, and weak. He asked the Sun to be made young and strong again, but the Sun didn’t answer.

The Phoenix decided to return to the place of his birth in hope that the Sun would hear him there. Along the way, he collected fragrant leaves, cinnamon bark, and myrrh. When at last he arrived at the place that had once been his home, he built a nest of the fragrant leaves and bark, and created an egg from myrrh.

The Phoenix lifted his head in song and asked the Sun once more to grant his wish to be young and strong again. This time, the Sun heard him and shone upon the Phoenix with all his might. The rays were bright and fiercely hot. While other creatures hid, the Phoenix basked in the Sun’s glory. Suddenly there was a flash of light and the Phoenix was awash in fire. When the flames died, the Phoenix was gone. All that was left was a heap of silvery ash.

The ash began to tremble, and from the ash rose a beautiful, strong, young Phoenix. Among the ash, was the egg made of myrrh. The young Phoenix filled the egg with the ashes and with the egg in his talons, began his journey back to the desert in the East. Along the way, he stopped at a sacred temple and placed the egg on the altar. The Phoenix continued his flight to the faraway desert, where he lived in peace and harmony for 500 years. When he became weak, he returned to the mountain top of his birth to be bathed in flames and rise again!

Like the Phoenix rising from the ashes, we are reborn – again and again. Every challenge, every change, every creative spark, provides opportunity for each and every one of us to rise again – renewed, stronger, more passionate, and awake.

Silence is Golden

“See how nature – trees, flowers, grass – grows in silence.
See the stars, the moon, and the sun, how they move in silence.
We need silence to be able to touch (our) souls.”
Mother Teresa

I love my peeps! There’s nothing in the world like an unabridged gab fest and laughter with beloved friends and family. The mellow moments are nice too, whether sitting in companionable “silence,” working together on a project, or dreaming.

I also treasure the down time. For it is when I am alone, that I truly feel the Spirit within. My soul can be naked. I can talk aloud to myself and Spirit, without judgment. I can dance, sing, write, and create with abandon. I can go into the silence and touch the Buddha within.

Moments of silence nourish creativity, wisdom, and inner strength. When we acknowledge the sacred space within, life is more balanced, our experiences are richer, and our ability to manifest love and joy in our lives is amplified.

So why not take a moment now? Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths. Just let your cares drift away, as you connect to the Divine within!

Blossom!

“The goal in life is to make your heartbeat match the beat of the Universe,
to match your nature with Nature.”
Joseph Campbell

The Earth is vibrant with color, scent, and sound! Experiencing these gifts first-hand is utterly transformational – and can be as easy as stepping outside your door.

In my little piece of heaven, the flowers are abloom. Lavender, rose, and jasmine scent the air. The sweet songs of birds fill the air, as butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees move from flower to flower. Though things are a bit in chaos as we rebuild our deck, a moment in this tiny eco-system is peaceful and rejuvenating.

Life is much like nature. Sometimes it feels cold and barren. Other times, we are warmed to the soul with its bounty.

May you blossom and grow, find strength when you need it, be warmed by love, laugh with abandon, heal deeply, and experience much peace and joy!

Follow Your Bliss

“What is it that makes you happy? Stay with it, no matter what people tell you.
This is what is called following your bliss.”

“Follow your bliss and the Universe will open doors where there were only walls.”
Joseph Campbell

Just outside my front door is a smiling Green Man that reminds me each time I pass to “Follow Your Bliss.“ What does “Follow Your Bliss” mean? To me, it means pursuing those activities, beliefs, and people that bring meaning and joy to our lives. It means following our dreams, living our passions, staying in our truth.

I have not always followed my bliss. When I was young, I dreamt of being a barefoot poet and artist in a little cottage by the sea. Life took me in a different direction. I married, went to work, bought a house in the city, and had a family. All of this brought many wonderful moments of happiness, fulfillment, and yes, at times, full-on bliss.

As I got older, my bliss centered around my family, friends, the arts, and all things spiritual. I enjoyed exploring, writing, creating, learning, and teaching others about the seen and unseen. As I moved along this path, opportunities presented. I had the good fortune to collaborate with others and even enjoyed being the owner of my very own Gallery and Gathering Place.

The Universal path has many twists and turns. As soon as I get “comfortable” in one place, the Universe presents a new perspective, a fork in the road, a decision to be made. While talking to my daughter on the telephone one day, I heard myself saying that my current situation “no longer felt in alignment with my personal beliefs, my work in the world, or my passions.” My daughter stopped me and said, “Mom, did you hear what you just said?”

Thunk! The Universe let me know quite clearly that I was no longer following my bliss. While one of my passions is to help others achieve their goals, all the signs that something was amiss in my own life were present. I had stopped doing what I love. My creativity felt blocked. Activities that normally brought me joy felt overwhelming. I adopted “healthy detachment” as my life lesson, along with a mantra of “It’s not yours.” Go figure!

It takes a lot of courage to stay the course of one’s personal path. I have no idea what lies ahead. However, since making my decision, doors are starting to open again. I’ve received invitations to collaborate and teach. I’ve revamped my website and added a blog! I’ve started writing again. Ideas for new jewelry and creative projects are dancing in my head. I’m looking forward to art dates, concerts, and coffee with friends again.

And so life begins anew as I listen to my heart and heed its calling. Whether fully immersed or just dabbling, may you too find infinite joy as you Follow Your Bliss.

Heal Your Soul First

“All illnesses, whether physical, emotional, or psychological stem from an illness of Spirit…Within each of us is a spiritual body. It is our essence, our soul. When our soul is wounded or out of balance, it often manifests as physical or psychological illness.”
Steven D. Farmer, Ph.D

Healing has been conjectured to be 20 percent medical and 80 percent spiritual. When we experience stress, loss, and fear, we become vulnerable to disease.  Energy healing seeks to remove blockages and restore balance in body, mind, and Spirit.  Feng Shui creates a peaceful environment to nourish the soul.  Reiki relieves stress as it balances the energy centers in the body and auric field.  Gentle sound healing quiets the mind, stimulates the immune system, and promotes deep healing.  Meditation, prayer, and affirmations connect us to Spirit to manifest positive change in our lives.

“Whatever other methodologies or remedies you pursue…
let the healing of your Spirit be a priority.”
—Steven D. Farmer, Ph.D

The Magical Mosaic of Life

“Every act, thought and choice adds to the permanent mosaic: Our decisions ripple through the Universe of consciousness to affect the lives of all. Every act or decision made that supports life, supports all life, including our own.”
  David R. Hawkins, M.D.

The month after I closed the Gallery and Gathering Place in Folsom, Judy called to tell me she had been thinking about me and felt we needed to get together. When we met, our conversation turned to how wonderful it would be to create a healing center in one of the old, vacant churches in midtown.

So instead of going to lunch that day, we all (Kellyann joined us) piled into my car and drove to midtown to look at churches. As we neared the former Spiritual Life Center at 24th and K, Judy told me to pull over. She jumped out of the car and ran into the building while we waited in the loading zone. When she returned, she was elated! A new healing center, was under construction within the old church. Judy added, “The owner’s name is Teresa and she knows you, Kate!”

Later that week, Judy and I met with Teresa (whom I remembered from Body and Hearth.) She shared with us her inspiration and extraordinary vision. When I left that day, I felt compelled to take Teresa’s hands in mine. As I looked into her beautiful eyes, I felt a deep connection – and a desire to help any way I could!

Just when I was wondering what was next, I felt renewed with possibility as Judy, Kellyann, and I joined forces to help Teresa manifest her vision of an Urban Sanctuary. How grateful I am for this wondrous mosaic of life, the people and places that magically weave in and out, creating a tapestry, both beautiful and flawed, to enrich and inspire us forward.