Voice of Choices Magazine

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Celebratiing the Change we are in the world

Transcript of Voice of Choices Magazine

Page 1: Voice of Choices Magazine
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MonthlyMagazineVOICE OF CHOICES

Publisher: Kathy ‘Whyte Wynde’ [email protected]

206-715-28249011 Corbin Dr #BEverett, WA 98204

www.VoiceOfChoices.com

Whether you defi ne ‘spirit’ as enthu-siasm or spirituality, Voice of Choices supports you in exploring the many options for creating and enjoying your life! We feature articles on alternative healing, personal development, spiri-tuality and a wide range of topics fo-

cused on spirited living.Giving voice to the myriad of choices

available in each moment, information is not intended for diagnosis, treat-ment, or prescription regarding dis-ease, illness or injury. We recommend you see a licensed health practitioner if you have concerns about your health. Voice of Choices is not respon-

sible for any situations arising from participation in or application of anything written or advertised in

this publication.We welcome your contribution of ar-

ticles and artwork, to be published on approval as space permits. Articles do not necessarily represent the views of

the publisher. Subscriptions to are $30.00 per

year 12 issues U.S. - Inquire for In-ternational rates) We accept MC/Visa, Paypal and Personal Checks. Thank you for all your good work.

Blessings in all your choices. Nam Myoho Renge Kyo

Voice Choices

The

OF

Features4 What is? Finding Peace Kathy ‘Whyte Wynde’ Lowden 5 Family Dynamics - Signals for Inner Healing Julie Hutslar 6 Create the Peace You Deserve - Discover the Power Within YOU! Marisa Russo 8 Emotional Abuse - You Deserve Healthy Relationships Kasara D’Elene, MS, LMHCA 10 May Astrological Infl uences Carol Barbeau 11 Meditation - Connecting to Our True Self Sarah Finney 12 Manifesting Your Desires -Message From Mother Mary Raven Many Voices 12 Visualizing Healing - Trust the Process Rajkhet Dirzhud-RashidRajkhet Dirzhud-Rashid 13 Rock Talk - Hypersthene Cecilia Ray15 Healing Tones - Adding Sound to Your Daily Practice Kriss Erickson. MAC

Celebrating Life!

May 2011

Cover Art - Raphael - ‘Empathy’ From the - Angels of Atlantis - Oracle Cards by Stewart PearceIllustrated by Richard Crookes - This card reminds of of the simplicity of the beautiful lotus - symbol of enlightenment and compassion. www.FindhornPress.com

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Blessings From the

Publisher

VOICE OF CHOICES PAGE 4 MAY 2011

What Is?Finding Peace

Esther Hicks and Jerry Hicks - sharing channeled informa-Esther Hicks and Jerry Hicks - sharing channeled informa-tion featured in the movie ‘The Secret’ offer many videos on-tion featured in the movie ‘The Secret’ offer many videos on-line which explain the Power of Attraction we put in action line which explain the Power of Attraction we put in action as we decide consciously what we want to create in our lives. as we decide consciously what we want to create in our lives.

It is human approach life with a hidden agenda. We can easily It is human approach life with a hidden agenda. We can easily ‘connect’ with the reality/illusion of what we already believe to be ‘connect’ with the reality/illusion of what we already believe to be true. Our ‘story’ - our beliefs combined with memories and emo-true. Our ‘story’ - our beliefs combined with memories and emo-tion - set a tone for what we expect. When we get caught up in the tion - set a tone for what we expect. When we get caught up in the thoughts running through our heads it can be diffi cult to see or create thoughts running through our heads it can be diffi cult to see or create any other experience. And yet - our own version of reality nev-any other experience. And yet - our own version of reality nev-er totally matches up with anyone else. Why not begin to shift our er totally matches up with anyone else. Why not begin to shift our agenda? What would it be like to stop expecting more of the same? agenda? What would it be like to stop expecting more of the same?

How could our lives change if we truly be-How could our lives change if we truly be-gin to step into our own power, direct our gin to step into our own power, direct our thoughts, choose our emotions and start the thoughts, choose our emotions and start the ball rolling to manifest what best serves us?ball rolling to manifest what best serves us?I’ve been working alot lately with the Ha-I’ve been working alot lately with the Ha-waiian Ho’Oponopono concepts. I Love waiian Ho’Oponopono concepts. I Love YOU. I AM sorry. Please Forgive ME. YOU. I AM sorry. Please Forgive ME. Thank YOU. This process is used to untie Thank YOU. This process is used to untie the entangled connections created in our the entangled connections created in our minds and hearts - which then play out as minds and hearts - which then play out as we interpret the world around us. Again - we interpret the world around us. Again - watch the Voice of Choices Magazine page watch the Voice of Choices Magazine page on Facebook for videos, blogs and music on Facebook for videos, blogs and music that can explain, in depth and offer you that can explain, in depth and offer you more tools should you choose to try them.more tools should you choose to try them.So it is May - a month beginning with cel-So it is May - a month beginning with cel-ebrating those who birthed us and coming ebrating those who birthed us and coming to a close as we remember those who’ve to a close as we remember those who’ve passed on. Our relationships with others can passed on. Our relationships with others can seem to bloom out of synch with our needs. seem to bloom out of synch with our needs. And what if the lessons shared don’t have And what if the lessons shared don’t have an expiration date. What if it is always an an expiration date. What if it is always an option to ‘wake up’ and discover a new gift option to ‘wake up’ and discover a new gift of love we may have overlooked?of love we may have overlooked?So, as I call up my own memories of a cold So, as I call up my own memories of a cold dark morning in the early 1980’s - I still re-dark morning in the early 1980’s - I still re-

member taking someone else’s word and member taking someone else’s word and following a course that ‘should’ have cre-following a course that ‘should’ have cre-ated smooth sailing. As my own inner ated smooth sailing. As my own inner knowing refused to be silent and in the knowing refused to be silent and in the

face of fear that the directions I was given were defi nitely not creat-face of fear that the directions I was given were defi nitely not creat-ing the desired outcome - I attempted to avert what was to come. No ing the desired outcome - I attempted to avert what was to come. No one could hear the level of concern in my voice and action was too one could hear the level of concern in my voice and action was too slow in coming to avoid the outcome. There was never any personal slow in coming to avoid the outcome. There was never any personal blame associated with an event beyond my control. Each participant blame associated with an event beyond my control. Each participant in the story had a level of respons- ability which ultimately created a in the story had a level of respons- ability which ultimately created a challenging situation no one wanted.challenging situation no one wanted.It is interesting that I can sometimes detect a similar theme playing It is interesting that I can sometimes detect a similar theme playing out in my life today; somehow believing that ‘instructions’ meant out in my life today; somehow believing that ‘instructions’ meant to guide are set in stone, unchangeable and to be followed ultimately to guide are set in stone, unchangeable and to be followed ultimately and without question..... right up to a point where my ‘buttons’ are and without question..... right up to a point where my ‘buttons’ are pushed and I fi nd myself having to change course, ask for help and pushed and I fi nd myself having to change course, ask for help and open to letting go of an agenda which does nothing to serve the cur-open to letting go of an agenda which does nothing to serve the cur-rent situation.rent situation.So I choose to continue my Ho’Oponopono work. I love YOU. I So I choose to continue my Ho’Oponopono work. I love YOU. I AM sorry. Please Forgive ME. Thank YOU. I cannot know what AM sorry. Please Forgive ME. Thank YOU. I cannot know what life holds in store. If I continue to hold an opinion about myself or life holds in store. If I continue to hold an opinion about myself or anyone else that claims ‘blame’ or suggests purposeful wrongdoing- anyone else that claims ‘blame’ or suggests purposeful wrongdoing- the only one that feels the effects of those judgments is me. the only one that feels the effects of those judgments is me. What if the people and events in my life that seem to be ‘pushing What if the people and events in my life that seem to be ‘pushing my buttons’ are here to assist me in dropping an agenda that no my buttons’ are here to assist me in dropping an agenda that no longer serves? Maybe I can begin to discover a new way to ‘Find longer serves? Maybe I can begin to discover a new way to ‘Find Peace’ with What IsPeace’ with What Is..Blessings in all your Choices - Nam Myoho Renge Kyo and MahaloBlessings in all your Choices - Nam Myoho Renge Kyo and Mahalo Kathy ‘Whyte Wynde ’ Lowden Kathy ‘Whyte Wynde ’ Lowden

May Day! May Day! May Day! It was many May Day! May Day! May Day! It was many years ago on a 95 foot crab boat heading into years ago on a 95 foot crab boat heading into

Yakutat Alaska Yakutat Alaska that my skpper put out the emergency that my skpper put out the emergency call for assistance. The hull of the boat call for assistance. The hull of the boat punctured ‘we’ were also taking on water punctured ‘we’ were also taking on water over the decks. The ‘survival suit drill’ the over the decks. The ‘survival suit drill’ the week before came in handy, as we donned week before came in handy, as we donned the heavy outer ‘skin’ and launched our the heavy outer ‘skin’ and launched our well outfi tted survival raft. I learned well outfi tted survival raft. I learned many things that early January morning. many things that early January morning. One major concept was if you ever have One major concept was if you ever have to abandon ship you jump as far out from to abandon ship you jump as far out from the boat as you can. The vessel may list the boat as you can. The vessel may list to one side, a vaccum created as it does - to one side, a vaccum created as it does - and going ‘down’ with what may end up and going ‘down’ with what may end up being a sinking ship is what you’re trying being a sinking ship is what you’re trying to avoid. to avoid. Adventure - yes - my life has been fi lled Adventure - yes - my life has been fi lled with amazing opportunities to learn and with amazing opportunities to learn and grow. As my choices became less ‘wild’ grow. As my choices became less ‘wild’ the opportunities didn’t stop. Almost 30 the opportunities didn’t stop. Almost 30 years later I am reminded that, while I years later I am reminded that, while I may not see it at the time, life is always may not see it at the time, life is always pushing me to the next best expression of pushing me to the next best expression of myself. It may not feel like a gift.... or myself. It may not feel like a gift.... or even a blessing - at the time when reality even a blessing - at the time when reality shifts and you discover you must jump- shifts and you discover you must jump- or reap the unique set of circumstances or reap the unique set of circumstances not always defi ned as ‘rewards’ by stay-not always defi ned as ‘rewards’ by stay-ing a course that has fulfi lled its value.ing a course that has fulfi lled its value.This month’s articles offer great This month’s articles offer great ideas for bouying you up in stormy seas -and maybe a bit of a re-ideas for bouying you up in stormy seas -and maybe a bit of a re-ality check to help decide whether ‘where’ you are is a situation ality check to help decide whether ‘where’ you are is a situation you’d like to continue co-creating. Julie Hutslar opens our eyes to you’d like to continue co-creating. Julie Hutslar opens our eyes to the ‘gifts’of our closest relationships. If our lives are about personal the ‘gifts’of our closest relationships. If our lives are about personal growth, our families and ‘intimate’ friends could be here to help us growth, our families and ‘intimate’ friends could be here to help us shift into more honestly expressing ourelves and building respect fi lled shift into more honestly expressing ourelves and building respect fi lled interactions. Australian Healer Marisa Russo will be in the Seattle and interactions. Australian Healer Marisa Russo will be in the Seattle and Portland areas - don’t miss her article and free talks sharing healing Portland areas - don’t miss her article and free talks sharing healing techniques that have worked wonders in assisting many as they dis-techniques that have worked wonders in assisting many as they dis-cover their own power. Kasara D’Elene shares on a topic very close to cover their own power. Kasara D’Elene shares on a topic very close to my own heart. Emotional and verbal abuse can be devastating. Her my own heart. Emotional and verbal abuse can be devastating. Her study of the subject may shed light on an issue rarely talked about - study of the subject may shed light on an issue rarely talked about - and in many ways more harmful to the psyche than physical abuse.and in many ways more harmful to the psyche than physical abuse.Voice of Choices exists to bring you inspiration and information. Voice of Choices exists to bring you inspiration and information. AND what if, with a shift of perception, we choose to look at the as-AND what if, with a shift of perception, we choose to look at the as-pects of our life which seem to create fear, confl ict and unease as tools pects of our life which seem to create fear, confl ict and unease as tools we can use to enrich our lives and fi ne tune our personal vibration? we can use to enrich our lives and fi ne tune our personal vibration? Could it be we can best defi ne our direction when we discover we are Could it be we can best defi ne our direction when we discover we are not where we want to be?not where we want to be?Everything in our world IS vibration. Sound, light, atoms, molecules, Everything in our world IS vibration. Sound, light, atoms, molecules, thoughts... everything, beginning with the tiniest particle is in mo-thoughts... everything, beginning with the tiniest particle is in mo-tion. As for creating our reality by taking charge of our thinking, tion. As for creating our reality by taking charge of our thinking, thoughts create attitude. Attitude attracts to us similar attitude and thoughts create attitude. Attitude attracts to us similar attitude and voila’ that fl eeting idea crossing your consciousness which gives voila’ that fl eeting idea crossing your consciousness which gives you a reason to smile. We attract a very different response from oth-you a reason to smile. We attract a very different response from oth-ers when the choice is to interact with than a less positive attitude.ers when the choice is to interact with than a less positive attitude.

My 2009 Poinsettia - Chrismas 2010 all green. Beginning My 2009 Poinsettia - Chrismas 2010 all green. Beginning bloom for Easter. Maybe full fl ower for Mother’s Day? bloom for Easter. Maybe full fl ower for Mother’s Day?

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Julie Hutslar

In working with individuals in personal growth for many years, it’s In working with individuals in personal growth for many years, it’s beyond obvious that nothing lights up your hottest buttons like fam-beyond obvious that nothing lights up your hottest buttons like fam-ily. And why not? They are main characters in your passion play. Soul ily. And why not? They are main characters in your passion play. Soul partners in many cases, you choose to play roles that are challenging partners in many cases, you choose to play roles that are challenging and diffi cult to those you love and they with you. However, when you and diffi cult to those you love and they with you. However, when you get stuck in the ego muck of the drama, you forget that you contracted get stuck in the ego muck of the drama, you forget that you contracted this. In fact, that you are the writer, director, producer and main actor/this. In fact, that you are the writer, director, producer and main actor/actress of your own story. Other individuals don’t have the stomach or actress of your own story. Other individuals don’t have the stomach or the tenacity to play the role of the one forcing you into your biggest the tenacity to play the role of the one forcing you into your biggest learning. Others would call uncle and say they love you too much to learning. Others would call uncle and say they love you too much to see you suffer. Not so with the tenacious loved ones called mother, fa-see you suffer. Not so with the tenacious loved ones called mother, fa-ther, sister, brother, or child. So what can you do to ease the pain?ther, sister, brother, or child. So what can you do to ease the pain?Garner your lesson. Oh, that. Oh, ok, sure, that was easy. Yeah, I’ll just Garner your lesson. Oh, that. Oh, ok, sure, that was easy. Yeah, I’ll just get the lesson I’ve been struggling with for 50 years. NOT. What if get the lesson I’ve been struggling with for 50 years. NOT. What if you had the teacher’s key? That would help, right? What if you started you had the teacher’s key? That would help, right? What if you started out by knowing they weren’t your greatest enemy, and in many cases, out by knowing they weren’t your greatest enemy, and in many cases, you truly DO love them, they just challenge the bejezus out of you, but you truly DO love them, they just challenge the bejezus out of you, but they were your greatest soul fan? This takes the personal sting out of it. they were your greatest soul fan? This takes the personal sting out of it. Then, you look for signals to take you to your greatest healing.Then, you look for signals to take you to your greatest healing.Signals, what are signals? Signals are behaviors you enact when you Signals, what are signals? Signals are behaviors you enact when you are either with this challenging person, or that come upon you when are either with this challenging person, or that come upon you when you are being faced with the stress they present. This could be rub-you are being faced with the stress they present. This could be rub-bing your shoulders, massaging your temples, incessant talking, total bing your shoulders, massaging your temples, incessant talking, total lethargy, chewing your nails, headaches, back pain, wringing your lethargy, chewing your nails, headaches, back pain, wringing your hands, staring blankly out into space or withdrawing inside. Any of hands, staring blankly out into space or withdrawing inside. Any of these sound familiar? These are signals. They tell you that underneath these sound familiar? These are signals. They tell you that underneath is something you are avoiding and it has nothing whatsoever to do with is something you are avoiding and it has nothing whatsoever to do with anyone else. anyone else. Let’s say you have an encounter with your mother. She lights you up, Let’s say you have an encounter with your mother. She lights you up, you feel she is harping on an old subject, whatever, it doesn’t matter you feel she is harping on an old subject, whatever, it doesn’t matter what it is. Your light is on. Your signal is activated loud and clear, you what it is. Your light is on. Your signal is activated loud and clear, you couldn’t even hear a train crossing at this point. This is your cue. couldn’t even hear a train crossing at this point. This is your cue. Pause. Silently ask yourself these questions: What do I really want to Pause. Silently ask yourself these questions: What do I really want to say or do? Who do I want to hear me? What is going on underneath say or do? Who do I want to hear me? What is going on underneath that I am avoiding? What part of me feels uncomfortable and why? Is that I am avoiding? What part of me feels uncomfortable and why? Is there something I have not asked that you (the you behind the signal) there something I have not asked that you (the you behind the signal) would like to offer? would like to offer? Be available to hearing something you are not expecting. Be available Be available to hearing something you are not expecting. Be available to sense or feel something or even get an image that might be helpful. to sense or feel something or even get an image that might be helpful. Not everyone gains their wisdom through aural or hearing means. You Not everyone gains their wisdom through aural or hearing means. You

can receive it via sensations, pains, symbolism, seeing written words can receive it via sensations, pains, symbolism, seeing written words in front of you, a phrase from a song, or a knowing. Of course, there in front of you, a phrase from a song, or a knowing. Of course, there are many more, but the idea here is to be available to listening in all are many more, but the idea here is to be available to listening in all ways. Is there a dominant you that steps forward? A teenager who ways. Is there a dominant you that steps forward? A teenager who never got heard? A wife that was too acquiescing? A boy that was never got heard? A wife that was too acquiescing? A boy that was laden with too much too soon? laden with too much too soon? Remember, this exercise is about you exclusively. Even though Remember, this exercise is about you exclusively. Even though your behavior might be in response to someone else, we are look-your behavior might be in response to someone else, we are look-ing for what it is in you that wants out, what is it in you that your ing for what it is in you that wants out, what is it in you that your contracted soul mate is working overtime to help you hash out? contracted soul mate is working overtime to help you hash out? Most likely you are going to fi nd a belief, a perception or a way Most likely you are going to fi nd a belief, a perception or a way of seeing things that no longer serves you underneath all the hand of seeing things that no longer serves you underneath all the hand wringing. Your non-consciously held beliefs are what govern your wringing. Your non-consciously held beliefs are what govern your story, so if something is limiting your co-creating (such as, I am story, so if something is limiting your co-creating (such as, I am not worthy of being heard, it’s better to be quiet and small than risk not worthy of being heard, it’s better to be quiet and small than risk death or punishment by shining too brightly, or I am incapable) then death or punishment by shining too brightly, or I am incapable) then it needs to come out before you can expand your world. But how? it needs to come out before you can expand your world. But how? Someone or something triggers you into taking action. Why would Someone or something triggers you into taking action. Why would you go looking for something you don’t know you have until it be-you go looking for something you don’t know you have until it be-comes unbearable to continue living the way you are? comes unbearable to continue living the way you are? Bottom line, follow your signals, they will guide you to your own Bottom line, follow your signals, they will guide you to your own deepest healing. Be prepared to hear a part of you that needs to be deepest healing. Be prepared to hear a part of you that needs to be heard, that needs to be healed, that wants to be integrated. Look her/heard, that needs to be healed, that wants to be integrated. Look her/him (whatever part of you that needs your attention) square in the him (whatever part of you that needs your attention) square in the eyes and hold her/his hands. Offer the bigger picture, let them know eyes and hold her/his hands. Offer the bigger picture, let them know those fears are not still real, offer them the love only you can gener-those fears are not still real, offer them the love only you can gener-ate and be prepared to return as often as you need. Make the time ate and be prepared to return as often as you need. Make the time to listen to you, to pay attention to the signals that say you are un-to listen to you, to pay attention to the signals that say you are un-comfortable and fi nd out why. Then step into them as they step into comfortable and fi nd out why. Then step into them as they step into you, bring them with you, integrate that part of you that got stuck in you, bring them with you, integrate that part of you that got stuck in a time bubble. Miraculously, your challenging family member will a time bubble. Miraculously, your challenging family member will either fi nd another lesson to assist you with, or your dynamic will either fi nd another lesson to assist you with, or your dynamic will shift altogether. But the impetus is you~ loving you, loving being shift altogether. But the impetus is you~ loving you, loving being you and being more loving.you and being more loving.Julie Hutslar is the author of The Mask, the Mirror and the Illusion and Julie Hutslar is the author of The Mask, the Mirror and the Illusion and Relationships: Gifts of the Spirit. She is a practitioner of Core Belief Re-Relationships: Gifts of the Spirit. She is a practitioner of Core Belief Re-structuring and leads Women’s Spiritual Retreats. Visit her web site at www.structuring and leads Women’s Spiritual Retreats. Visit her web site at www.JRHutslar.com.JRHutslar.com.

Family DynamicsFamily DynamicsSignalsSignals for forPersonalGrowthPersonalGrowth

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As life moves forward it seems to provide less secu-As life moves forward it seems to provide less secu-rity, peace and certainty. Peace is obtainable in your rity, peace and certainty. Peace is obtainable in your life; you just need to look within yourself fi rst. You life; you just need to look within yourself fi rst. You are the creator of your life. You can harness and man-are the creator of your life. You can harness and man-age the powers within.age the powers within.When you reach that peaceful and centred place When you reach that peaceful and centred place within yourself; your life will fl ow and your intuitive within yourself; your life will fl ow and your intuitive instincts will be heightened. You will feel and experi-instincts will be heightened. You will feel and experi-ence a cloak of protection and guidance to keep your ence a cloak of protection and guidance to keep your mind at peace. You will feel your life fl ow in a path mind at peace. You will feel your life fl ow in a path that protects, heals and enhances you.that protects, heals and enhances you.You will have stretched, challenged and pushed your You will have stretched, challenged and pushed your beliefs so that you know you can surrender and trust beliefs so that you know you can surrender and trust that all will be well. You will learn that the vibration that all will be well. You will learn that the vibration within you will mould your surroundings and experi-within you will mould your surroundings and experi-ences to match it.ences to match it.Addressing your fears is where you begin your jour-Addressing your fears is where you begin your jour-ney to creating this powerful self. Your fears may ney to creating this powerful self. Your fears may consist of; the unknown, natural disasters, other consist of; the unknown, natural disasters, other people, death and suffering; health and safety; loss people, death and suffering; health and safety; loss of income, food, and possessions. Each person in this of income, food, and possessions. Each person in this world is unique, fi nding your own individual fears world is unique, fi nding your own individual fears and their causes will help you on this journey.and their causes will help you on this journey.You may fear what is and the potential of what may You may fear what is and the potential of what may come. Understanding that your vibration attracts what come. Understanding that your vibration attracts what you focus on, reminds you that you are the creator you focus on, reminds you that you are the creator and designer of your life, so you are creating every and designer of your life, so you are creating every minute of the day. minute of the day.

Releasing Fear..... Releasing Fear..... Andrea, a client, lived in fear her whole life. When a Andrea, a client, lived in fear her whole life. When a

stressful situation would arise in her life, it would over-stressful situation would arise in her life, it would over-whelm her. Andrea pursued many avenues to fi nd relief, whelm her. Andrea pursued many avenues to fi nd relief, such as travelling to India to live amongst the Buddhists, such as travelling to India to live amongst the Buddhists, spending hours meditating and attending spiritual work-spending hours meditating and attending spiritual work-shops, etc.. All these experience still left her void of shops, etc.. All these experience still left her void of peace. When Andrea fi nally realised that her low self peace. When Andrea fi nally realised that her low self worth was keeping her stuck and that she deserved more, worth was keeping her stuck and that she deserved more, her life began to change. When I removed the unwanted her life began to change. When I removed the unwanted negative connections with people and situations from negative connections with people and situations from Andrea’s past, it gave her the internal peace she had been Andrea’s past, it gave her the internal peace she had been longing for. This peace came from within and not from longing for. This peace came from within and not from an external source.an external source.

Remember When..... Remember When..... Remember a time in your life when you felt connected Remember a time in your life when you felt connected to the feeling of peace and joy. Was it the moment your to the feeling of peace and joy. Was it the moment your child was born, or holding a baby and feeling their pure child was born, or holding a baby and feeling their pure essence? Was it a moment when you locked eyes with essence? Was it a moment when you locked eyes with an animal and you sensed they knew you? Or a moment an animal and you sensed they knew you? Or a moment when you received a life changing message that brought when you received a life changing message that brought tears of joy to your eyes? A time when you loved so much tears of joy to your eyes? A time when you loved so much that nothing else existed in your world? What was the that nothing else existed in your world? What was the moment that has forever imprinted on your heart, a mo-moment that has forever imprinted on your heart, a mo-ment that you will always cherish when you recall it?ment that you will always cherish when you recall it?

Let Go .... Let Go .... There is a mistaken belief that controlling your life and There is a mistaken belief that controlling your life and others keeps you safe and reduces stress. This only in-others keeps you safe and reduces stress. This only in-creases stress as life is forever reminding you that you creases stress as life is forever reminding you that you cannot control it. Analyse all your fears from your past, cannot control it. Analyse all your fears from your past, receive healing and let them go. Trusting and surrender-receive healing and let them go. Trusting and surrender-ing to life allows you to connect and infl uence the direc-ing to life allows you to connect and infl uence the direc-tion life can take you. Life will always prove you to be tion life can take you. Life will always prove you to be correct.correct.Details are also important in life; it is in the small details Details are also important in life; it is in the small details that infl uences fi nal outcomes. It is similar to asking that infl uences fi nal outcomes. It is similar to asking someone to paint a picture for you. The more details someone to paint a picture for you. The more details you give to them, the more likely they will create the you give to them, the more likely they will create the picture you want.picture you want.Connect .... Connect .... To fi nd the power within you; visualise and imagine be-To fi nd the power within you; visualise and imagine be-coming the strength of a large oak tree. The roots are coming the strength of a large oak tree. The roots are

Marisa RussoMarisa Russo

Create The Peace You DeserveCreate The Peace You Deserve Discover The Power Within YOU Discover The Power Within YOU

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PAGE 7 VOICE OF CHOICES MAY 2011

deeply planted in the ground, immoveable in any storm. You are strong deeply planted in the ground, immoveable in any storm. You are strong and centred and connected to heaven and earth. This connects you to all and centred and connected to heaven and earth. This connects you to all that is. Allow these energies to surge up through your feet, your legs, that is. Allow these energies to surge up through your feet, your legs, your torso, your chest, your arms, and then your head. Let this power your torso, your chest, your arms, and then your head. Let this power release all the negative feelings and experiences that have impacted you release all the negative feelings and experiences that have impacted you and allow the strong and powerful energies over take you. Anchor this and allow the strong and powerful energies over take you. Anchor this feeling inside you. This energy is now surging into your entire being. feeling inside you. This energy is now surging into your entire being.

My Journey .... My Journey .... I have come to a realisation that life has a natural fl ow. My negative I have come to a realisation that life has a natural fl ow. My negative upbringing kept a negative energy around me that produced negative upbringing kept a negative energy around me that produced negative results. I had accumulated fears from my childhood which would at-results. I had accumulated fears from my childhood which would at-tract many fearful situations in my life. When I started cleaning up tract many fearful situations in my life. When I started cleaning up my life in every direction including mental, spiritual, and physical my life in every direction including mental, spiritual, and physical aspects, I began attracting more appealing and positive experiences in aspects, I began attracting more appealing and positive experiences in my life. When I did attract a fearful situation I would access a source my life. When I did attract a fearful situation I would access a source of power within me to change the situation. One of these situations oc-of power within me to change the situation. One of these situations oc-curred when I was visiting in Honolulu in the middle of the peak holi-curred when I was visiting in Honolulu in the middle of the peak holi-day season. I missed my departing fl ight to Australia. The airport was day season. I missed my departing fl ight to Australia. The airport was full of stranded people and the service desk person politely informed full of stranded people and the service desk person politely informed me that the next available fl ight was in two weeks time. My initial me that the next available fl ight was in two weeks time. My initial reaction was one of fear so I changed my emotional state to be more reaction was one of fear so I changed my emotional state to be more empowered. I had overheard the word “New Zealand” mentioned in empowered. I had overheard the word “New Zealand” mentioned in a passing conversation only minutes prior and found myself walking a passing conversation only minutes prior and found myself walking over to the fl ight desk for fl ights travelling to New Zealand. When I over to the fl ight desk for fl ights travelling to New Zealand. When I

arrived at the service desk, I handed over my ticket and the attendant arrived at the service desk, I handed over my ticket and the attendant instructed me to board the fl ight quickly as the gates were closing. As instructed me to board the fl ight quickly as the gates were closing. As I boarded, I found the last available seat. On arrival to New Zealand I I boarded, I found the last available seat. On arrival to New Zealand I was able to catch a connecting fl ight, direct to Australia.was able to catch a connecting fl ight, direct to Australia.On refl ection, I thought it was miraculous that I was permitted to board a On refl ection, I thought it was miraculous that I was permitted to board a fl ight for a different fl ight route! So many similar occurrences happen in fl ight for a different fl ight route! So many similar occurrences happen in my life, I no longer fear as I believe that everything will always work out.my life, I no longer fear as I believe that everything will always work out.

Blessings To You ........ Blessings To You ........ I send blessings for angels to be with you always, for you to have your I send blessings for angels to be with you always, for you to have your hearts longings and desires; for health and happiness to overfl ow in hearts longings and desires; for health and happiness to overfl ow in your life; that angels may always guide and protect you and lead you your life; that angels may always guide and protect you and lead you on a path of empowerment; to lift you to a higher place to experience on a path of empowerment; to lift you to a higher place to experience pure joy; a place where time stands still and where you will discover pure joy; a place where time stands still and where you will discover there is so much more. Immerse yourself in abundant blessings.there is so much more. Immerse yourself in abundant blessings.

Marisa Russo is founder of the Forensic Advance Healing system. She is Marisa Russo is founder of the Forensic Advance Healing system. She is launching her intensive workshops on the West Coast and will be appearing launching her intensive workshops on the West Coast and will be appearing in Los Angeles-May 8, San Diego-May 14, Portland-May 22, Seattle-May in Los Angeles-May 8, San Diego-May 14, Portland-May 22, Seattle-May 21, San Raphael-May 25, 28, San Francisco-May 24, 29.21, San Raphael-May 25, 28, San Francisco-May 24, 29.SEATTLE EVENTS: May 17-Philosophy & Tea Room-Free presentation/ SEATTLE EVENTS: May 17-Philosophy & Tea Room-Free presentation/ May 21- Crowne Plaza- Free presentation; Intensive workshop-$97 To regis-May 21- Crowne Plaza- Free presentation; Intensive workshop-$97 To regis-ter and tour schedule: Reserve:1-800-896-9136: www.MarisaRusso.com/vcter and tour schedule: Reserve:1-800-896-9136: www.MarisaRusso.com/vc

Page 8: Voice of Choices Magazine

VOICE OF CHOICES PAGE 8 MAY 2011

Emotional abuse is the least talked Emotional abuse is the least talked about and most common form of about and most common form of abuse. Unfortunately in this soci-abuse. Unfortunately in this soci-

ety, much of what is considered ety, much of what is considered normal and acceptable forms normal and acceptable forms

of communication are actually of communication are actually abusive. In our society it has been challenging to defi ne emotional abusive. In our society it has been challenging to defi ne emotional abuse, but internally when we are a victim to this behavior, we know abuse, but internally when we are a victim to this behavior, we know that it does not feel good. Unfortunately, because of this thin cover of that it does not feel good. Unfortunately, because of this thin cover of acceptance and the inability to defi ne it adequately, many people may acceptance and the inability to defi ne it adequately, many people may not realize they have been emotionally abused. Emotional abuse is not realize they have been emotionally abused. Emotional abuse is often overlooked or unrecognized as compared to physical or sexual often overlooked or unrecognized as compared to physical or sexual forms of maltreatment. However, emotional abuse often coexists forms of maltreatment. However, emotional abuse often coexists with these other forms of abuse.with these other forms of abuse.Emotional abuse has subtle patterns. No one enters a relationship Emotional abuse has subtle patterns. No one enters a relationship knowing that they will be abused. But many victims think they can knowing that they will be abused. But many victims think they can

fi x their abusers and that the abuser just needs an understanding per-fi x their abusers and that the abuser just needs an understanding per-son that can help them correctly. Unfortunately the abusers are mas-son that can help them correctly. Unfortunately the abusers are mas-ters of control and once a victim is caught, it can be very diffi cult to ters of control and once a victim is caught, it can be very diffi cult to break free from the abuser. I can assure you that you alone, will NOT break free from the abuser. I can assure you that you alone, will NOT be able to “fi x” the abuser. This is an impossible task for one person. be able to “fi x” the abuser. This is an impossible task for one person. The abuser has been mastering their manipulative and controlling The abuser has been mastering their manipulative and controlling skills for many years and have habits of mind that make it diffi cult skills for many years and have habits of mind that make it diffi cult for them to imagine being in a respectful and equal relationship with for them to imagine being in a respectful and equal relationship with a woman. The abuser is very aware of their behavior and can turn it a woman. The abuser is very aware of their behavior and can turn it off when it suits them; you can read more about this in Lundy Ban-off when it suits them; you can read more about this in Lundy Ban-croft’s book “Why Does He Do That; Inside the Minds of Angry and croft’s book “Why Does He Do That; Inside the Minds of Angry and Controlling Men.” There may be underlying psychological disorders Controlling Men.” There may be underlying psychological disorders as well which are best left to a qualifi ed professional to assist with.as well which are best left to a qualifi ed professional to assist with.

Abuse often takes a form of a rotating cycle, where the abuse hap-Abuse often takes a form of a rotating cycle, where the abuse hap-pens, and then things are better for awhile and the abuser apologizes pens, and then things are better for awhile and the abuser apologizes and brings gifts, then abuse happens again. Statistically there are so and brings gifts, then abuse happens again. Statistically there are so many women caught in this emotional abuse trap that it is disheart-many women caught in this emotional abuse trap that it is disheart-ening. Just one of the many examples is a woman I’ll call ‘Aysha’. ening. Just one of the many examples is a woman I’ll call ‘Aysha’. Aysha talks about how Wendell abuses her, repeats himself, he swears Aysha talks about how Wendell abuses her, repeats himself, he swears constantly and she cannot get a word in edgewise. She fi nally stands constantly and she cannot get a word in edgewise. She fi nally stands up for herself forcefully and that is when he fi nally leaves. So you up for herself forcefully and that is when he fi nally leaves. So you may ask, why does Wendell think Aysha is the one who has been do-may ask, why does Wendell think Aysha is the one who has been do-ing all the yelling and complaining? Because in his mind, she’s sup-ing all the yelling and complaining? Because in his mind, she’s sup-posed to be listening, not talking. If she expresses herself at all, that is posed to be listening, not talking. If she expresses herself at all, that is too much…. Abusers often reduce their victims to inanimate objectstoo much…. Abusers often reduce their victims to inanimate objects..Emotional abusers use abuse to control their victims with teasing, Emotional abusers use abuse to control their victims with teasing, threats, aggressive demands or expectations, insults, criticism, rejec-threats, aggressive demands or expectations, insults, criticism, rejec-tion, neglect blame, emotional manipulation and control, isolation, tion, neglect blame, emotional manipulation and control, isolation, punishment, terrorizing and ignoring. Lundy Bancroft, an expert that punishment, terrorizing and ignoring. Lundy Bancroft, an expert that works with emotionally abusive men, states that the great majority works with emotionally abusive men, states that the great majority [of abusers] exhibit a subtle – though often quite pervasive – sense of [of abusers] exhibit a subtle – though often quite pervasive – sense of superiority or contempt towards [their victims]. In addition, he states superiority or contempt towards [their victims]. In addition, he states that many sexual and physical abuse survivors have stated that the that many sexual and physical abuse survivors have stated that the emotional abuse they have experienced is more devastating and has emotional abuse they have experienced is more devastating and has longer-term effects. In some ways manipulation is worse than overt longer-term effects. In some ways manipulation is worse than overt abuse, especially when the two are mixed together. When a woman abuse, especially when the two are mixed together. When a woman gets called a ‘bitch’, or gets shoved or slapped, she at least knows gets called a ‘bitch’, or gets shoved or slapped, she at least knows what her partner did to her. But after an [emotionally abusive] ma-what her partner did to her. But after an [emotionally abusive] ma-nipulative interaction she may have little idea what went wrong; she nipulative interaction she may have little idea what went wrong; she just knows that she feels terrible, or crazy, and that somehow it seems just knows that she feels terrible, or crazy, and that somehow it seems to be her own fault. In this country we have laws against other forms to be her own fault. In this country we have laws against other forms of abuse, unfortunately there are no laws against emotional abuse.of abuse, unfortunately there are no laws against emotional abuse.Many people feel trapped by their emotional abusers. They do not Many people feel trapped by their emotional abusers. They do not know how life would feel without fear, degradation and constraint. know how life would feel without fear, degradation and constraint. Everyone has choices, but for those that are emotionally abused, Everyone has choices, but for those that are emotionally abused, choices are diffi cult to recognize in the moment or aftermath of abuse choices are diffi cult to recognize in the moment or aftermath of abuse leaving the victim to feel alone and isolated believeing they have lit-leaving the victim to feel alone and isolated believeing they have lit-tle choice at all. If you are always being controlled and manipulated tle choice at all. If you are always being controlled and manipulated it does not feel like you have choices when you have been educated it does not feel like you have choices when you have been educated that you have no power.that you have no power.

Emotional Abuse:Emotional Abuse:You Deserve Healthy RelationshipsYou Deserve Healthy Relatio

Kasara D’Elene, M.S., LMHCA

Page 9: Voice of Choices Magazine

PAGE 9 VOICE OF CHOICES MAY 2011

TreatmentTreatmentIt may be diffi cult at fi rst to assist an emotionally abused victim be-It may be diffi cult at fi rst to assist an emotionally abused victim be-cause they typically deny that they have been emotionally abused cause they typically deny that they have been emotionally abused because they do not recognize the emotional trauma as abuse. When because they do not recognize the emotional trauma as abuse. When someone tries to help the abused person, the helper might inadver-someone tries to help the abused person, the helper might inadver-tently say something that triggers the abused person’s past emotional tently say something that triggers the abused person’s past emotional abuse which might deter them from receiving help. Abused people abuse which might deter them from receiving help. Abused people usually have an overtly resistant strategy with others who seem threat-usually have an overtly resistant strategy with others who seem threat-ening or powerful. If you know someone that has been emotionally ening or powerful. If you know someone that has been emotionally abused, it is important to not discount their feelings and the emotions abused, it is important to not discount their feelings and the emotions they have experienced especially because their abuse is not recog-they have experienced especially because their abuse is not recog-nized by others leaving the victim feeling isolated and alone. nized by others leaving the victim feeling isolated and alone. Research indicates that having just one supportive person can be the Research indicates that having just one supportive person can be the saving grace for anyone suffering from emotional abuse. Interviews saving grace for anyone suffering from emotional abuse. Interviews with survivors indicate that the most important single survival factor with survivors indicate that the most important single survival factor was that each had at least one person who gave unconditional, posi-was that each had at least one person who gave unconditional, posi-tive regard; someone who thought well of them and made them feel tive regard; someone who thought well of them and made them feel important. If you ever ask an emotional abuse survivor what helped important. If you ever ask an emotional abuse survivor what helped them the most, their answer most likely will be “Someone to talk to, them the most, their answer most likely will be “Someone to talk to, to listen to me, to believe me.”to listen to me, to believe me.”One treatment for the emotionally abused is strength building tech-One treatment for the emotionally abused is strength building tech-niques to build resilience. These would best be tailored to each person niques to build resilience. These would best be tailored to each person by discovering the inherent strengths of the person and then build-by discovering the inherent strengths of the person and then build-ing upon them. The focus should be on showing the abused person ing upon them. The focus should be on showing the abused person how to take time for themselves, working on raising their self-es-how to take time for themselves, working on raising their self-es-teem and helping them to learn how to be responsible for themselves. teem and helping them to learn how to be responsible for themselves. For those of us working with someone who has experienced emo-For those of us working with someone who has experienced emo-tional abuse here are some tools you may fi nd useful. If you are tional abuse here are some tools you may fi nd useful. If you are fi nding your way through a rough situation yourself these sug-fi nding your way through a rough situation yourself these sug-gestions may be of assistance to you . Gentle refl ection. Begin-gestions may be of assistance to you . Gentle refl ection. Begin-ning to give more praise, and focusing on positive attributes – not ning to give more praise, and focusing on positive attributes – not the fl aws. Realizing how self criticism does not help. Working on the fl aws. Realizing how self criticism does not help. Working on self-acceptance, and how to set reachable goals. Learing to defi ne self-acceptance, and how to set reachable goals. Learing to defi ne ourselves in new ways: gently discovering how to stop comparing ourselves in new ways: gently discovering how to stop comparing ourselves to others, and develop an understanding of how to stop ourselves to others, and develop an understanding of how to stop seeing ourselves in all-or-nothing terms. It is also important that seeing ourselves in all-or-nothing terms. It is also important that we/they learn how to start nurturing ourselves. This intervention we/they learn how to start nurturing ourselves. This intervention can assist in how to take care of our/their body and promote the can assist in how to take care of our/their body and promote the body’s ability to self heal by getting massages, manicures, and hugs. body’s ability to self heal by getting massages, manicures, and hugs. It is important to let the client (ourselves) know that learning to em-It is important to let the client (ourselves) know that learning to em-power themselves is a process and that they will continue to change power themselves is a process and that they will continue to change and grow over time. The emotionally abused person has, in the past and grow over time. The emotionally abused person has, in the past ,developed a reliance on the abuser to telling them how they are feel-,developed a reliance on the abuser to telling them how they are feel-ing, what they like, and what their worth and value is as a person. As ing, what they like, and what their worth and value is as a person. As the abused person learns to look internally as opposed to externally, the abused person learns to look internally as opposed to externally, gaining self-reliance will help them begin a journey of improvement.gaining self-reliance will help them begin a journey of improvement.Emotionally abused victims experience various forms of loss that may Emotionally abused victims experience various forms of loss that may not be obvious. These may include a loss of spontaneity, loss of enthu-not be obvious. These may include a loss of spontaneity, loss of enthu-siasm, a loss of how they come across to others and the loss of being an siasm, a loss of how they come across to others and the loss of being an important human being. Victims also have a loss of self-confi dence, important human being. Victims also have a loss of self-confi dence, loss of not being like others, loss of healthy relationships, an inability to loss of not being like others, loss of healthy relationships, an inability to come to conclusions, a loss of happiness, loss of feeling safe, of being come to conclusions, a loss of happiness, loss of feeling safe, of being worthwhile and the loss of knowing they have power over their own life. worthwhile and the loss of knowing they have power over their own life. All emotional wounds run deep, regardless of the timeline, and All emotional wounds run deep, regardless of the timeline, and that is what makes emotional abuse so much worse than physical that is what makes emotional abuse so much worse than physical

abuse. Working to acknowledge the deep wounds and the subse-abuse. Working to acknowledge the deep wounds and the subse-quent grief from each loss can take considerable time. Uncovering quent grief from each loss can take considerable time. Uncovering each loss can be a lot of work. Part of the process of recovery is each loss can be a lot of work. Part of the process of recovery is the grieving of loss, and part of the grieving of loss is the recov-the grieving of loss, and part of the grieving of loss is the recov-ery of the spirit. In life, much of what one grieves one never had. ery of the spirit. In life, much of what one grieves one never had. One researcher stated for example, the partner may realize she was One researcher stated for example, the partner may realize she was never accepted by her mate [or parent] because of their overwhelming never accepted by her mate [or parent] because of their overwhelming need to control and dominate her. Her grief would be an acknowledge-need to control and dominate her. Her grief would be an acknowledge-ment that a human need was not met – a value not attained. She could ment that a human need was not met – a value not attained. She could not feel this kind of loss – the loss of what she never had – unless her not feel this kind of loss – the loss of what she never had – unless her spirit knew its needs and rights. In this sense, grief is the conscious spirit knew its needs and rights. In this sense, grief is the conscious acknowledgement and realization of what the spirit already knows. acknowledgement and realization of what the spirit already knows. Through grief we consciously become aware of a value of the spirit Through grief we consciously become aware of a value of the spirit and by grieving the loss, we recover in such a way that we integrate and by grieving the loss, we recover in such a way that we integrate that value. Thus we become more whole. When the victim of verbal that value. Thus we become more whole. When the victim of verbal abuse realizes that she was not loved, only controlled, she grieves abuse realizes that she was not loved, only controlled, she grieves the lack of love because she knows that she is lovable. Through that the lack of love because she knows that she is lovable. Through that process she gains [the reality of] self-esteem. She knows that she is process she gains [the reality of] self-esteem. She knows that she is worthy of love and respect.worthy of love and respect.A woman may never fully heal from the abuse she has experienced. A woman may never fully heal from the abuse she has experienced. But because she remembers and when she becomes empowered, she But because she remembers and when she becomes empowered, she will not suffer the agony again. She won’t be able to erase the wounds will not suffer the agony again. She won’t be able to erase the wounds of abuse like pencil marks on the paper, but she will feel stronger from of abuse like pencil marks on the paper, but she will feel stronger from the scar tissue covering them. Some milestones she may achieve in-the scar tissue covering them. Some milestones she may achieve in-clude: fewer nightmares, less fear, increased self-confi dence, greater clude: fewer nightmares, less fear, increased self-confi dence, greater skill in taking charge of her own affairs, feeling less of being a victim, skill in taking charge of her own affairs, feeling less of being a victim, and more the strength of a survivor, enjoying life more with her fam-and more the strength of a survivor, enjoying life more with her fam-ily and friends, learning to laugh again, to have fun, play and spend ily and friends, learning to laugh again, to have fun, play and spend time in nature, changing from the rigidity of her previous life to the time in nature, changing from the rigidity of her previous life to the spontaneity of freedom, and feeling kinship with all people who suf-spontaneity of freedom, and feeling kinship with all people who suf-fer.fer.Because it is diffi cult for the emotionally abused to articulate what Because it is diffi cult for the emotionally abused to articulate what has happened to them, it has taken many years for this concept to has happened to them, it has taken many years for this concept to be brought forth to professionals that can help do something about be brought forth to professionals that can help do something about it. Fortunately we know now that it is possible to defi ne emotional it. Fortunately we know now that it is possible to defi ne emotional abuse, and the power differentials between the abuser and the emo-abuse, and the power differentials between the abuser and the emo-tionally abused. Now it is a matter of getting this information out to tionally abused. Now it is a matter of getting this information out to the public to prevent future generations from experiencing the effects the public to prevent future generations from experiencing the effects of emotional abuse. If you recognize any of this for yourself or some-of emotional abuse. If you recognize any of this for yourself or some-one else, please get help. one else, please get help.

Kasara D’Elene owns TruHealth, a health food store in the Mi-Kasara D’Elene owns TruHealth, a health food store in the Mi-Creek/Bothell area. She has helped empower and educate thousands Creek/Bothell area. She has helped empower and educate thousands of people to optimum health. You can reach her at 425-415-8410 of people to optimum health. You can reach her at 425-415-8410 www.truhealth.com www.truhealth.com

Emotional Abuse:You Deserve Healthy Relationshipsonships

I AM Worthy I AM Worthy of being loved of being loved

for the beautiful for the beautiful human beinghuman being

I AM I AM

Page 10: Voice of Choices Magazine

VOICE OF CHOICES PAGE 10 MAY 2011

Happy Birthday Taurus and Gemini Sun Signs Happy Birthday Taurus and Gemini Sun SignsMay 2011 brings us into a time of richness and a theme accepting May 2011 brings us into a time of richness and a theme accepting what we cannot change and making the changes which are possible, what we cannot change and making the changes which are possible, and not grousing too much about either end of this. We begin the and not grousing too much about either end of this. We begin the month with a very unusual arrangements of planets. Usually by this month with a very unusual arrangements of planets. Usually by this time of year TAURUS energy is the main theme but beginning May time of year TAURUS energy is the main theme but beginning May 2011 we have The moon, Uranus, Venus, Mercury, Jupiter and Mars 2011 we have The moon, Uranus, Venus, Mercury, Jupiter and Mars still riding the fast lane in Aries. The express shuttle for change and still riding the fast lane in Aries. The express shuttle for change and moving forward does not really begin to slow until the 11th and by the moving forward does not really begin to slow until the 11th and by the 15th we have incorporated more steady and fi xed earth energy.15th we have incorporated more steady and fi xed earth energy.Meanwhile we begin in the fast lane with changes all around us and Meanwhile we begin in the fast lane with changes all around us and a very strong need to try and understand what is happening. Last a very strong need to try and understand what is happening. Last months Mercury retrograde opposing Saturn brought many of us back months Mercury retrograde opposing Saturn brought many of us back to the drawing table to reconfi gure plans which after the 15th of this to the drawing table to reconfi gure plans which after the 15th of this month we should more easily begin to build.month we should more easily begin to build.Saturn is retrograde all month in Libra so relationships are still up on Saturn is retrograde all month in Libra so relationships are still up on the drawing table and under negotiations and with Pluto Retrograde in the drawing table and under negotiations and with Pluto Retrograde in Capricorn many of those negotiations will be political. Watch Laws Capricorn many of those negotiations will be political. Watch Laws now begin to really change and the knowledge that there are powers now begin to really change and the knowledge that there are powers beyond the OLD ways of doing things moving us forward past what-beyond the OLD ways of doing things moving us forward past what-ever obstacles try to block us.ever obstacles try to block us.In the early days of this month Venus the planet of love is in exact In the early days of this month Venus the planet of love is in exact opposition to Saturn so I would advise against putting your foot down opposition to Saturn so I would advise against putting your foot down and demanding things of those you love until later in the month. We and demanding things of those you love until later in the month. We are all deciding who stays and who goes in our lives as Saturn makes are all deciding who stays and who goes in our lives as Saturn makes its once in 30 years movement through Libra, so being aware that its once in 30 years movement through Libra, so being aware that this early May energy could blast some of you loose is something to this early May energy could blast some of you loose is something to think about.think about.Many of you know that Pluto in Capricorn and Uranus wearing the Many of you know that Pluto in Capricorn and Uranus wearing the sign of Aries will create a square or rough aspect with each other until sign of Aries will create a square or rough aspect with each other until 2015. Meaning that many of the rules, laws, and world changes are 2015. Meaning that many of the rules, laws, and world changes are going to be something we have to get used to. Creating peace and going to be something we have to get used to. Creating peace and calm and security midst whatever is going on around us to me seems calm and security midst whatever is going on around us to me seems the major task we have all taken on for our souls growth.the major task we have all taken on for our souls growth.Many of us have learned this year that security is not money in the Many of us have learned this year that security is not money in the bank when an earthquake or war comes. What security is to me now bank when an earthquake or war comes. What security is to me now more than ever; is friendships, connections to those who love me, and more than ever; is friendships, connections to those who love me, and the knowledge that I can do whatever the next step requires of me. the knowledge that I can do whatever the next step requires of me. And a sense of higher power having a plan even though I am unable And a sense of higher power having a plan even though I am unable to see it right now.to see it right now.Lucky Colors for May are Green for growth, Pink for love and blue Lucky Colors for May are Green for growth, Pink for love and blue

for clarity of thought, word, and deed and use the Stone Emerald to for clarity of thought, word, and deed and use the Stone Emerald to improve psychic powers, sharpen intellect, intuition, vision and mem-improve psychic powers, sharpen intellect, intuition, vision and mem-ory. The plant sacred to this time is the Hawthorne also known as the ory. The plant sacred to this time is the Hawthorne also known as the May tree which blooms only in May and is used for clarity, visions May tree which blooms only in May and is used for clarity, visions and psychic ability. and psychic ability. The Symbol until the 21st when the sun will move to Gemini is the The Symbol until the 21st when the sun will move to Gemini is the Bull for the sign of Taurus which is a FIXED Earth sign (Earth signs Bull for the sign of Taurus which is a FIXED Earth sign (Earth signs are about Building and planting) this time gives us the dedication, are about Building and planting) this time gives us the dedication, tenacity and the determination to build what is most important to ustenacity and the determination to build what is most important to usThe Merry Month of May gets its name from Maia majestas the The Merry Month of May gets its name from Maia majestas the Grandmother goddess of spring and the roman God Mercury and Grandmother goddess of spring and the roman God Mercury and May from ancient times is the month of Hand fasting or dedication to May from ancient times is the month of Hand fasting or dedication to Mother Goddess uniting with God or the male energy. This is a great Mother Goddess uniting with God or the male energy. This is a great month to unite the Yin and yang within the self and balance your lifemonth to unite the Yin and yang within the self and balance your lifeMay 1st, which is also BELTANE and a fertility time, opens us to all May 1st, which is also BELTANE and a fertility time, opens us to all that is rich, luxuriant and abundant in our lives. as we reach the ½ way that is rich, luxuriant and abundant in our lives. as we reach the ½ way point of Spring 2011. So, whether you are planting ideas, projects, point of Spring 2011. So, whether you are planting ideas, projects, business, babies, relationships or just a greater sense of peace, you are business, babies, relationships or just a greater sense of peace, you are planting a crop which you will harvest over the next few months so planting a crop which you will harvest over the next few months so take great care this month to encourage the plants and not the weeds take great care this month to encourage the plants and not the weeds in your life and your mind.. As On May 1st the Moon touches Jupiter in your life and your mind.. As On May 1st the Moon touches Jupiter again the theme of BELIEVE and make it happen is strong with Pow-again the theme of BELIEVE and make it happen is strong with Pow-erful Aries (I CAN DO it energy)erful Aries (I CAN DO it energy)That NEW moon seed planting energy on May 2nd with the new That NEW moon seed planting energy on May 2nd with the new moon in Taurus is about new ways of thinking, about how we can moon in Taurus is about new ways of thinking, about how we can create security and maybe even what security is to us. New moons create security and maybe even what security is to us. New moons are seed planting times and This chart may 2nd, 11:51pm PDT here in are seed planting times and This chart may 2nd, 11:51pm PDT here in Seattle certainly requires faith and trust and willingness to share and Seattle certainly requires faith and trust and willingness to share and network with others. Recognition of what we value and what really network with others. Recognition of what we value and what really matters seems very strong midst all this wild astrological energy.matters seems very strong midst all this wild astrological energy.Taurus is the sign of preparedness and so for many of us this will be Taurus is the sign of preparedness and so for many of us this will be the month we get that water, and emergency supplies and recognize the month we get that water, and emergency supplies and recognize that hoping for the best does not preclude preparing and being ready that hoping for the best does not preclude preparing and being ready for whatever comes to us. Someone wrote (several)for whatever comes to us. Someone wrote (several)to me when I sent our a preparedness sheet that I should pray and to me when I sent our a preparedness sheet that I should pray and send white light and that would fi x everything. My reply was prayer, send white light and that would fi x everything. My reply was prayer, white light sends oftentimes the Red Cross and assistance. So, do white light sends oftentimes the Red Cross and assistance. So, do both please.both please.Neptune newly entered into Pisces this month joins with Chiron the Neptune newly entered into Pisces this month joins with Chiron the wounded healer bringing new ideas about healing and healthcare and wounded healer bringing new ideas about healing and healthcare and some strong visions of what we need to do to heal our own issues some strong visions of what we need to do to heal our own issues also. BELIEVE and do the work is the theme now if you have not also. BELIEVE and do the work is the theme now if you have not guessed already?guessed already?Mothers Day on the 8th this year has the moon in nurturing Cancer Mothers Day on the 8th this year has the moon in nurturing Cancer and some challenging aspects to Venus, Mercury, Jupiter and Mars in and some challenging aspects to Venus, Mercury, Jupiter and Mars in Aries. Since I believe that Cancer is about healthy self care and these Aries. Since I believe that Cancer is about healthy self care and these planets are in Aries, it seems that maybe it is time to honor ourselves planets are in Aries, it seems that maybe it is time to honor ourselves this year along with family obligations. What do you do to Mother this year along with family obligations. What do you do to Mother yourself, What do you want to do this day is the question, and can you yourself, What do you want to do this day is the question, and can you do it and feel ok with taking care of self?do it and feel ok with taking care of self?On the 11th the pace begins to slow a bit with Mars the planet of On the 11th the pace begins to slow a bit with Mars the planet of Action fi nally moving to Taurus and anchoring into reality and prac-Action fi nally moving to Taurus and anchoring into reality and prac-ticality comes forth strongly on this day as we are also challenged to ticality comes forth strongly on this day as we are also challenged to recognize that there is more than can be seen by the naked eye which recognize that there is more than can be seen by the naked eye which is infl uencing us.is infl uencing us.On the 15th Venus, and Mercury (Love and beauty and communica-On the 15th Venus, and Mercury (Love and beauty and communica-tions) moves to Taurus and again, we get another bit of a chance to tions) moves to Taurus and again, we get another bit of a chance to stop and take a breathe and see what is going on around us. . This day stop and take a breathe and see what is going on around us. . This day has many oppositions as again we are asked to incorporate reality and has many oppositions as again we are asked to incorporate reality and ideas, and visions with everyday life. ideas, and visions with everyday life. The full moon May 17th has a trinity of Taurus planets..Venus, Mer-The full moon May 17th has a trinity of Taurus planets..Venus, Mer-cury and Mars sitting within 3 degrees of each other and the sun 26 cury and Mars sitting within 3 degrees of each other and the sun 26 Degrees away opposing the moon in Scorpio. This next 2 weeks asks Degrees away opposing the moon in Scorpio. This next 2 weeks asks us to really look at our resistances and let go where needed. If there us to really look at our resistances and let go where needed. If there was ever a month of seeing where you are stuck, this is the one, and was ever a month of seeing where you are stuck, this is the one, and the energies are attempting to help the energies are attempting to help Continued bottom next pageContinued bottom next page

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PAGE 11 VOICE OF CHOICES MAY 2011

unstick you and do the work as we get real with Taurus energy.unstick you and do the work as we get real with Taurus energy.This last few month the sky or energies of the heavens has tried to This last few month the sky or energies of the heavens has tried to detach us from our past and old ways of thinking and now the sun detach us from our past and old ways of thinking and now the sun in Gemini is here to help us see that there are better days coming and in Gemini is here to help us see that there are better days coming and new ideas available after the 21st. We can have what we want if we new ideas available after the 21st. We can have what we want if we are willing to work for it and….changes are inevitable and we have are willing to work for it and….changes are inevitable and we have options is the message now as we learn new ways of thinking and options is the message now as we learn new ways of thinking and talking and maybe even believing.talking and maybe even believing.Are you living your life or is your life living you has been the lesson Are you living your life or is your life living you has been the lesson of the last few months and most of us truly know the answer, and now of the last few months and most of us truly know the answer, and now we have the energy to do something about that answer. we have the energy to do something about that answer. This 5th month of a number 4 year makes this a 9 month of endings. This 5th month of a number 4 year makes this a 9 month of endings. My personal belief is that a belief in ourselves and our abilities is the My personal belief is that a belief in ourselves and our abilities is the only true safety there is. Plus a healthy dose of Higher power for only true safety there is. Plus a healthy dose of Higher power for some of us? So conscious connection is a strong part of the message some of us? So conscious connection is a strong part of the message and realizing what is yours to do and what belongs to higher power. and realizing what is yours to do and what belongs to higher power. And what do you need to release within the mind, body, heart, which And what do you need to release within the mind, body, heart, which will allow you to feel and Truly KNOW this and begin to build some-will allow you to feel and Truly KNOW this and begin to build some-thing better in your life and in the world.thing better in your life and in the world.I believe that we all will discover that May 2011 will be much easier I believe that we all will discover that May 2011 will be much easier than these preceding months of 2011 have been.than these preceding months of 2011 have been.As the Sun moves to Gemini. May 21stth through June 21st the As the Sun moves to Gemini. May 21stth through June 21st the Twins are our symbol. Gemini which is an Air (ideas) sign and Mu-Twins are our symbol. Gemini which is an Air (ideas) sign and Mu-table (able to go with the fl ow sign). Watch your life loosen up a bit table (able to go with the fl ow sign). Watch your life loosen up a bit as planets enter this sign. Lucky colors for this time are ALL Colors, as planets enter this sign. Lucky colors for this time are ALL Colors, remember me telling you Gemini is about options.remember me telling you Gemini is about options.

The sun moving into Gemini on the 21st opens the doorways into The sun moving into Gemini on the 21st opens the doorways into more ideas, great connections with others and a lighter easier feel for more ideas, great connections with others and a lighter easier feel for us all. Please let’s look at what really is important for us before we us all. Please let’s look at what really is important for us before we get out those tools to build.. Gemini is about the opportunity to multi get out those tools to build.. Gemini is about the opportunity to multi task and also to fi nd new connections and receive more information so task and also to fi nd new connections and receive more information so paying attention, connecting with others, and learning something new paying attention, connecting with others, and learning something new is the best way for us to utilize this month to its highest potential..is the best way for us to utilize this month to its highest potential..April was diffi cult for many again this year as it was last year… and April was diffi cult for many again this year as it was last year… and someone told me long ago, as I was crying about my losses and pain, someone told me long ago, as I was crying about my losses and pain, “THE HEART THAT BREAKS OPEN can now be able to contain “THE HEART THAT BREAKS OPEN can now be able to contain the whole Universe” So to those of you who lost something this last the whole Universe” So to those of you who lost something this last few weeks or months, remember to be more open and loving to others few weeks or months, remember to be more open and loving to others and that your heart is more open and ready to give and also receive and that your heart is more open and ready to give and also receive because of your life experiences…Carl Sandburg once said “after all, because of your life experiences…Carl Sandburg once said “after all, A baby is Gods opinion that the world should go on, isn’t it?” A baby is Gods opinion that the world should go on, isn’t it?” SO how about thinking about Creating your own baby this month, a SO how about thinking about Creating your own baby this month, a project, class a new relationship, friendship, group or maybe a move project, class a new relationship, friendship, group or maybe a move for some of you. This is the month to reprocess, reconnect, repair, for some of you. This is the month to reprocess, reconnect, repair, replace and reformat your life in order to move forward and build replace and reformat your life in order to move forward and build your future when the Sun Moves to Cancer next month.your future when the Sun Moves to Cancer next month.We are here right now, at this moment because we contracted and We are here right now, at this moment because we contracted and now is the time for us to bring our talents and abilities forward joy-now is the time for us to bring our talents and abilities forward joy-fully. Namaste Carol Barbeau fully. Namaste Carol Barbeau www.carolbarbeau.com for more astrology information or contact carol at www.carolbarbeau.com for more astrology information or contact carol at [email protected] [email protected]

Recently, time has expanded for me. I am more available for my fam-ily, for myself, for work and for the community projects that are im-portant to me. I know how important it is to eat well and exercise. I know that I cannot run on empty … I need water when I am thirsty, food for nourishment, and the doctor when I am unwell.What I didn’t fully realize until recently is that I also need my daily meditation practice.With the loving support of my family, I learned the Integrated Amrita Meditation Technique when my son was 3 years old. That was almost six years ago.The technique was conceived by a world-renowned meditation ex-pert, known to most as Amma or the Hugging Saint, who is based in Kerala, India. The technique was borne out of the need for greater stability and centering in our lives.With guidance and blessings from Amma, I’ve taught this technique to others — to health care workers, social service agency staff and clients, friends and co-workers. When I see the transformation of oth-ers after they learn and practice the technique, I’m reminded of the power of meditation.About six months ago, I realized I had been meditating because I thought I should. I stopped practicing for a while — I thought that un-less I practiced every day, there would be no benefi t. I guess I thought I needed a break. I missed it, but I couldn’t get back into the swing.This break from my spiritual practice actually left me feeling like I was really missing something. I realized that I was spending time in front of

Sarah Finney the television or the com-puter during the time that I could have been meditating. I thought that I was relaxing and recharging from my busy life, but I wasn’t. I was dis-tracting myself from my true self. I had given up one of the most important things that keeps me connected to myself.Recently, after spending three days at a retreat with Amma in Bel-levue, Wash., I started meditating again. When I am in the physical presence of this living saint, every second is like the most deep, revi-talizing meditation. My heart expands and I feel as though anything is possible. Through the grace of Amma, and with the compassion and encouragement of my fellow IAM practitioners and instructors, I have stepped back into this meditation practice.This time, my meditation is different. I’m not meditating because I think I should, or because I want to see how many days in a row I can meditate without missing a day. I’m now meditating because it keeps me connected to Amma and to her teachings, and to my own true self.Now I have more energy throughout the day, I feel more creative in all aspects of my life, and I seem to have plenty of time for everything … my family, myself, my work and my community.

Sarah Finney has been a disciple of Amma since 1984, and has taught the IAM Technique since 2007. This column is coordinated by Lane Interfaith Alliance to offer inspiration, share personal spiritual experiences and bring a deeper understanding of individual faith perspectives with the intention of blessing our community and the world. For information, visit www.laneinter-faithalliance.org or call 541-344-0430.

Meditation: Meditation: Connecting to Our True SelfConnecting to Our True Self

Page 12: Voice of Choices Magazine

VOICE OF CHOICES PAGE 12 MAY 2011

Hello my dear children, On this day I’d like to talk of how we manifest our desires in our world around us. Now more then ever the desires of the heart are playing out so quickly. This need of fast manifestation is wondrous! A prayer or desire from the heart is instantly placed in front of you, with pure intention one’s energy is directed to the purpose one follows. When we are in unconsciousness or resistance this slows the energy of manifesting. One must be in a place of trust to allow for change. It is just like a child who wants a broken toy fi xed by the parent but unwilling to let go. With tears in their eyes they cry for their teddy bear’s eye to be sewn back on, back too afraid to let go. So too you request for change but unwill-ing to let it go to Divine. We are ever patient as you request again and again, but now we ask you all to let go and allow for whatever form we bring you this prayer in. Manifesting has two parts: the giv-ing of the intention (prayer) and the receiving of the energy (allow-ing). The prayer is a focusing and understanding in what you want to manifest. It is allowing a time to become clear and centered with what desires are in the heart. Once you become focused in your desire (change) you then give us this de-sire to manifest. The second part of manifesting your desires is to receive and allow it to fl ow into your life. Once you have attended the feelings and desires of this shift you then let it fl ow from you into the universe. It is in this matter that manifesting occurs as energy is blended to produce this new experience. As these energies blend they form a new experience not exactly as you may have pictured it. Allowing yourself to receive moves the energy into your life quicker and without resistance. I would like each of you to pick one thing in your life you’d like to change or manifest now. Be very focused in what you want. Write exactly your desires and purpose for this change. You’ll then pray for this change everyday in the morning with a few words and then let it go to be played out within the day. Be observant but not forceful for this change. Do not be surprised if it is answered within a days time. Above all please be patient with yourself if you reach a place of re-sistance as this exercise will help you to reveal fear. And my beloveds have fun with your manifesting. Each of you hold the power of cre-ation. It is now time to use it more effectively. Namaste’ Mother Mary Raven Many Voices ~ Guide to the Spirits channels loving messages from Mother Mary and your Spirit Guides. Visit www.RavenMedium.com for more messages.

Raven Many VoicesMessage from Mother MaryMessage from Mother Mary As I sit at home, watching night slowly roll in, like watching a beau-As I sit at home, watching night slowly roll in, like watching a beau-

tiful curtain come down on the glorious day that just passed (after tiful curtain come down on the glorious day that just passed (after weeks of rain, a day with a blue sky and sunshine was like a present weeks of rain, a day with a blue sky and sunshine was like a present from the Goddess), I am once again reminded of my body’s ability from the Goddess), I am once again reminded of my body’s ability to heal itself. Getting over another case of bronchitis---part of living to heal itself. Getting over another case of bronchitis---part of living in the Northwest seems to be having to once in a while put up with in the Northwest seems to be having to once in a while put up with respiratory issues---I know deeply that the body’s wisdom of taking respiratory issues---I know deeply that the body’s wisdom of taking it slow, at times, is a good path to follow. True, this isn’t the ‘fun it slow, at times, is a good path to follow. True, this isn’t the ‘fun part’, but it’s part of the process, and I’m committed, as long as I’m part’, but it’s part of the process, and I’m committed, as long as I’m in this body, to trust that process.in this body, to trust that process.So, instead of over medicating my symptoms with anti-biotics in the So, instead of over medicating my symptoms with anti-biotics in the

way of Western medicine, I use my time tested home way of Western medicine, I use my time tested home remedies, knowing I will be even better this time, remedies, knowing I will be even better this time, and stronger for letting my own immune system do and stronger for letting my own immune system do it’s thing. This is the same way I’m slowly moving it’s thing. This is the same way I’m slowly moving into what I think of as the late autumn/early winter into what I think of as the late autumn/early winter of my life; that time of life I’ve known all of my of my life; that time of life I’ve known all of my life would someday arrive, and end my girlhood, my life would someday arrive, and end my girlhood, my wilder, youthful sallies. With herbs, and listening to wilder, youthful sallies. With herbs, and listening to my body’s own inner wisdom. Trusting my body’s my body’s own inner wisdom. Trusting my body’s process, which is the process of nature around me, process, which is the process of nature around me, to move in a natural rhythm closer toward whatever to move in a natural rhythm closer toward whatever purpose the universe has in mind for my future.purpose the universe has in mind for my future.I guess, as I watch the aftermath of the ongoing trag-I guess, as I watch the aftermath of the ongoing trag-edy in Japan, I also use this same method---trusting edy in Japan, I also use this same method---trusting nature’s truth to rebuild what is broken, or unwell-nature’s truth to rebuild what is broken, or unwell---to visualize a healthy future for the people who --to visualize a healthy future for the people who survived the devastation. I know, that with time, all survived the devastation. I know, that with time, all of the deep wounds left by nature will heal and the of the deep wounds left by nature will heal and the loss will be fi lled in with new gifts and new life.loss will be fi lled in with new gifts and new life.This point of view is how I think all of us can move This point of view is how I think all of us can move from any form of grieving, or situation of change, from any form of grieving, or situation of change, into a vision that is healthy and nourishing. It can be into a vision that is healthy and nourishing. It can be applied to all events, whether personal or global and applied to all events, whether personal or global and work to heal each of us and also our planet.work to heal each of us and also our planet.

Just as I use nature’s healing power to heal my body, Just as I use nature’s healing power to heal my body, letting time and natural medicine do their job, using letting time and natural medicine do their job, using

empowered visualization and the vibrations of love instead of fear, empowered visualization and the vibrations of love instead of fear, we can help Japan to heal and we can change the destructive course we can help Japan to heal and we can change the destructive course our society seems bent on. We can each be a beacon of light, work-our society seems bent on. We can each be a beacon of light, work-ing from our own lives, outward to reach better decisions that make ing from our own lives, outward to reach better decisions that make us better neighbors, partners and universal beings on a multi-layered us better neighbors, partners and universal beings on a multi-layered journey back to The Source Of All Things That Are Light and Love. journey back to The Source Of All Things That Are Light and Love. We can change our mindset of fear and violent confrontation to one We can change our mindset of fear and violent confrontation to one of acceptance, tolerance and growth, knowing we all have the right to of acceptance, tolerance and growth, knowing we all have the right to everything good and wonderful the universe has to give.everything good and wonderful the universe has to give.So, as I move slowly toward the end of my ‘girlhood’, and closer to So, as I move slowly toward the end of my ‘girlhood’, and closer to that crone self that’s been waiting like a good friend, just on the edge that crone self that’s been waiting like a good friend, just on the edge of my consciousness, I am learning new lessons. Particularly that of of my consciousness, I am learning new lessons. Particularly that of patience in the process and of loving my body’s wisdom and ability patience in the process and of loving my body’s wisdom and ability to heal through anything, even another case of bronchitis. This les-to heal through anything, even another case of bronchitis. This les-son is teaching me that everything broken or ill, can be healed and son is teaching me that everything broken or ill, can be healed and made better. To me, this is the best thing, the ‘up’ side, if you will, of made better. To me, this is the best thing, the ‘up’ side, if you will, of getting sick in the fi rst place.getting sick in the fi rst place.

Rajkhet Dirzhud-Rashid has over 20 years experience doing tarot, past Rajkhet Dirzhud-Rashid has over 20 years experience doing tarot, past life readings and in the last four years, discovered she had the gift of be-life readings and in the last four years, discovered she had the gift of be-ing a medium. Find her second Saturdays at Venus Moon in Renton, and ing a medium. Find her second Saturdays at Venus Moon in Renton, and on the full moon, at The Cuff in Seattle. Available for private readings on the full moon, at The Cuff in Seattle. Available for private readings and parties she can be reached at: 206-443-3856, or [email protected] parties she can be reached at: 206-443-3856, or [email protected]

Rajkhet Dirzhud-Rashid

Visualizing Healing Visualizing Healing Trusting the Process Trusting the ProcessManifesting Your Desires:Manifesting Your Desires:

Setting Intention - Allowing ChangeSetting Intention - Allowing Change

Page 13: Voice of Choices Magazine

PAGE 13 VOICE OF CHOICES MAY 2011

HyperstheneHypersthenewith the ‘solution planes’ of existence.” Isn’t that what most people are seeking at this time of change? She went on to tell how answers come quickly with Hypersthene whether you are in a meditative state or not. I am all for that.Back to the strength part – Melody talks of how it helps one to “stand up” for what is right. Michael’s Gemstone Dictionary men-tions using it to reduce the fear of public speaking and being in public view. It seems a perfect stone for the metaphysician who wants to speak about the changes happening. Interestingly, of the seven books I checked, Melody and Michael were the only ones to include it. There were some internet sources but basically they said the same things. I sat in meditation with a piece of Hyper-sthene to see what it thought about all of this. Immediately I heard “stand up and be count-ed.” The image I saw was of a leader stand-ing on a ledge with a crowd standing behind him on a sloping terrain. The image gave me

the sense that the leader was looking beyond the present at things to come. For over a month I have packed a piece of Hypersthene around with a piece of Nuum-mite and Seraphinite. During that time, I took a stand on some issues, felt pushed to resolve some problems, and made some im-portant decisions. I am amazed at the convic-tion and awareness that has been there. I am not one to make claims, but I must consider the possibility that Hypersthene and his two buddies played a role. Are you ready to face a problem, resolve an issue, or stand up for what you believe? How about including Hypersthene and see what happens.

Cecilia Ray, owner of World of Gaia, a rock busi-ness on www.WorldofGaia.net and ebay, reads stone energies. She also owns Mystical Winds, a company coordinating Psychic Fair and Events. 425-239-0565 or www.MysticalWinds.net.

With a name like Hypersthene, my guess is that you would immediately relate it to ac-tion. The hyper means ‘over’ and the sthene means ‘strength.’ This combination of mean-ings would indicate that this stone is a mover and a shaker, and it is, on a deep level.Before we delve into its attributes, let’s talk a bit about the stone’s physical qualities. Hy-persthene, also known at Eulite, is a blackish or dark greenish color with a bronze luster caused by the cleavage being at right angles. It has the appearance of having stripes, a lit-tle like tigers eye It has a hardness of 5-6 making it suitable for tumbling and cabo-chons. There are several places where it is found – The Adirondack Mountains of New York, around Mount St. Helens, in England, in the Nordic areas, and in the Czech Repub-lic. One source I found said that Bronzite is a form of Hypersthene.When it comes to the attributes and powers associated with Hypersthene, I love what Melody wrote in Love is in the Earth. She said that is can be “used to stimulate contact

Page 14: Voice of Choices Magazine

VOICE OF CHOICES PAGE 14 MAY 2011

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As a Reiki practitioner, I ask the vibrational As a Reiki practitioner, I ask the vibrational tones of the Universal energy of Reiki and tones of the Universal energy of Reiki and other frequencies to interact with my cli-other frequencies to interact with my cli-ents’ energy. This allows for deep inner ents’ energy. This allows for deep inner communication that opens the pathways to communication that opens the pathways to healing. healing. While Reiki has its own unique vibration, I While Reiki has its own unique vibration, I found that some clients were unable to sense found that some clients were unable to sense the vibrational aspects and connect deeply the vibrational aspects and connect deeply with the healing energies of the Universe. with the healing energies of the Universe. Since one of my main goals in sharing Since one of my main goals in sharing and raising awareness about Reiki is self-and raising awareness about Reiki is self-empowerment, I thought that adding vibra-empowerment, I thought that adding vibra-tional tones to the Reiki sessions would help tional tones to the Reiki sessions would help people to make a vital connection between people to make a vital connection between their own unique energy and the healing en-their own unique energy and the healing en-ergy of the Universe.ergy of the Universe.So I began incorporating tones into Reiki So I began incorporating tones into Reiki sessions. This can be done in several ways, sessions. This can be done in several ways, some of which can easily be incorporated some of which can easily be incorporated into meditation and self-healing sessions.into meditation and self-healing sessions.One way to incorporate sound into your dai-One way to incorporate sound into your dai-ly meditative time is by using your voice. ly meditative time is by using your voice. For example, if you have low back pain, a For example, if you have low back pain, a helpful focus point would be your Sacral helpful focus point would be your Sacral Chakra, located an inch or two below your Chakra, located an inch or two below your belly button. belly button. Place your hands on your Sacral Chakra, ei-Place your hands on your Sacral Chakra, ei-ther both hands in front or one in the front ther both hands in front or one in the front and one on your back, at the hips and hum and one on your back, at the hips and hum or tone sounds. It’s helpful to have the ego or tone sounds. It’s helpful to have the ego and logical mind out of the way when ton-and logical mind out of the way when ton-ing. Logic may insist, for instance, that ing. Logic may insist, for instance, that you believe you can’t sing or that you don’t you believe you can’t sing or that you don’t know what tones to use. know what tones to use.

Let go and trust the Universe to guide you in Let go and trust the Universe to guide you in what tones to use. You’ll be amazed at the what tones to use. You’ll be amazed at the beautiful sounds coming from your very own beautiful sounds coming from your very own throat. Singing and toning is also good for throat. Singing and toning is also good for your diaphragm muscle, right below your your diaphragm muscle, right below your rib cage, that supports your voice and gives rib cage, that supports your voice and gives strength to your Throat Chakra to help you strength to your Throat Chakra to help you speak your truth..speak your truth..Another way to add healing tones to your dai-Another way to add healing tones to your dai-ly self-healing practice is to sing to the part of ly self-healing practice is to sing to the part of your body or soul that needs attention. When your body or soul that needs attention. When I stubbed my toe, for example, I immediately I stubbed my toe, for example, I immediately reached down and wrapped my hands around reached down and wrapped my hands around the painful toe. I started singing to it as well.the painful toe. I started singing to it as well.As with toning, just let whatever words and As with toning, just let whatever words and melody come out that want to come. I sang melody come out that want to come. I sang something like, “Oh, poor little toe! I’m so something like, “Oh, poor little toe! I’m so sorry I bumped you! I hope you will feel sorry I bumped you! I hope you will feel better soon. I love you. I care about you. I better soon. I love you. I care about you. I promise to take better care of you in the fu-promise to take better care of you in the fu-ture. Thank you, toe!”ture. Thank you, toe!”Another way to use tones in your daily life is Another way to use tones in your daily life is to use bells or singing bowls. Bells come in to use bells or singing bowls. Bells come in all sizes from tiny bells that you can tie onto all sizes from tiny bells that you can tie onto a string, to medium-sized “jingle bells” that a string, to medium-sized “jingle bells” that make a bright, cheerful tone, to large bells make a bright, cheerful tone, to large bells with lower tones. with lower tones. Bells are fairly inexpensive so are a good Bells are fairly inexpensive so are a good choice to begin your toning collection. Sing-choice to begin your toning collection. Sing-ing bowls are usually made of copper or crys-ing bowls are usually made of copper or crys-tal. A small copper bowl may cost $30 or so, tal. A small copper bowl may cost $30 or so, a small crystal bowl may cost up to $100. a small crystal bowl may cost up to $100. Copper bowls have pure, bright tones and Copper bowls have pure, bright tones and “sing” well when rubbed with the wooden “sing” well when rubbed with the wooden stick that is included with the bowl. These stick that is included with the bowl. These bowls don’t tend to continue singing unless bowls don’t tend to continue singing unless you are actively rubbing the bowl. you are actively rubbing the bowl. Crystal bowls are usually made from quartz. Crystal bowls are usually made from quartz. They range in tone from a C all the way up They range in tone from a C all the way up the scale. Their tones can be clear and bright the scale. Their tones can be clear and bright or rich and throbbing. Once you get a crystal or rich and throbbing. Once you get a crystal bowl to sing, its vibrations continue for one to bowl to sing, its vibrations continue for one to several minutes, sending healing tones deep several minutes, sending healing tones deep into your body.into your body.Another way to add healing tones to your dai-Another way to add healing tones to your dai-ly self-healing practice is to use tuning forks.ly self-healing practice is to use tuning forks.As an Acutonics ™ Level II practitioner, I use As an Acutonics ™ Level II practitioner, I use medical-grade tuning forks to send tones di-medical-grade tuning forks to send tones di-

rectly into the body. Medical-grade tuning rectly into the body. Medical-grade tuning forks are tuned to correspond to the notes forks are tuned to correspond to the notes of each Chakra, which are tuned to the vi-of each Chakra, which are tuned to the vi-brations that come from the Universe. The brations that come from the Universe. The tuning forks look a little like piano tuning tuning forks look a little like piano tuning forks, but often have weighted ends. When forks, but often have weighted ends. When activating a tuning fork, use a rubber pad activating a tuning fork, use a rubber pad called an activator to produce the strongest called an activator to produce the strongest tones and to protect your body.tones and to protect your body.If you choose to purchase tuning forks, you If you choose to purchase tuning forks, you can use them one at a time on your own can use them one at a time on your own body, though they’re usually used in pairs of body, though they’re usually used in pairs of notes called intervals when used in a heal-notes called intervals when used in a heal-ing session. Usually the Ohm or C# fork is ing session. Usually the Ohm or C# fork is used in combination with another fork. The used in combination with another fork. The intervals used are thirds, fi fths, sixths, sev-intervals used are thirds, fi fths, sixths, sev-enths and octaves.enths and octaves.As you can see, there are many ways to add As you can see, there are many ways to add the healing support of vibrational tones to the healing support of vibrational tones to your daily life. Adding healing tones to your daily life. Adding healing tones to your daily meditative or healing practice your daily meditative or healing practice can help you to be more deeply connected can help you to be more deeply connected to the healing energies of the Universe.to the healing energies of the Universe.Kriss Erickson is an Acutonics Level II Practi-Kriss Erickson is an Acutonics Level II Practi-tioner, Certifi ed Counselor, Usui, Karuna ™, tioner, Certifi ed Counselor, Usui, Karuna ™, Crystal, Lightarian Level III & Atlantean Reiki Crystal, Lightarian Level III & Atlantean Reiki Master Teacher, Reconnective Level II Practitio-Master Teacher, Reconnective Level II Practitio-ner, Freelance Writer/Artist/Singer, and backyard ner, Freelance Writer/Artist/Singer, and backyard herbalist. http://slverkriss.tripod.com/herbalist. http://slverkriss.tripod.com/

Kriss Erickson, MAC

Healing TonesAdding Sound to Your Daily Practice

Page 16: Voice of Choices Magazine

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