Energy

by Vera Remes As a shamanic practitioner, I have become familiar with the concept of “helping spirits"--those known to assist humanity. I have come to depend on them when I am involved with healings specifically. But there is a yin to this yang. Opposing the helping spirits are troublesome entities that can create havoc, sometimes referred to in shamanism as “akura.” This is where spiritual investigations come into play. Whether a healing or a haunting, these negative spirits exist and can affect the living in many physical or spiritual ways. We each have our guides and helping spirits who, just like us, are stronger together than apart. When navigating them, it’s best to evaluate your relationship to yourself and your surroundings, and then call in help. What the...

Lifestyle

sexual dysfunction is usually stemmed in spirituality and energy issues

Sexual dysfunction: A physical or energetic representation of health?

February 24, 2017

Energy, Health, Lifestyle, Relationship

by Dr. Lisa Avila [caption id="attachment_5543" align="alignright" width="244"] To truly express our sexuality, we must release any latent judgements we may have been conditioned to believe about what’s acceptable or unacceptable sexually. Art by Sean David Wright[/caption] When I first read this quote by Caroline Myss, one of my earlier teachers and mentors, I didn't know what to do with it. Most of my life has been devoted to finding the root causes of what ails the body and the mind. As a healthcare practitioner, I found endless opportunities to explore the validity of the above quote. Later in my career, I spent time exploring the bridges between physical discomfort, emotional/spiritual distress, and body chemistry balance. In examining sexual dysfunction, I learned that the interplay between sex...

family & kids Love and sex relationship with self

Sex in two worlds: A Middle Eastern perspective on intimacy

February 22, 2017

By Colleen Jennings If you are from a Western country, you probably have never stopped to consider the amount of contact you have with the opposite sex throughout the course of your daily life. You went to school with boys and girls and spent all your days with friends and family members of both sexes. Sex, and the understanding of it, is flavored by each of these experiences and encounters. However, if you grew up in the Middle East sex no longer looks the same, as contact with members of the opposite sex was most likely severely limited. How does understanding this perspective offer our more open culture insight into improving the quality of the sexual experiences? In most Middle Eastern countries—but particularly in the more conservative,...

family & kids Love and sex relationship with self

Changing your relationship with the world: The Power of Positivity

February 15, 2017

by Paola Scaduto, Mind Key intern and Fall 2016 graduate of William Paterson University, N.J. Are you happy? Do you have good energy around you and do positive situations occur for you? Are you depressed? Do you feel like your negative feelings might result in negative situations? Positivity is important for not only us, but for those around us. Self-help gurus talk about manifestation In his book, “The Light in the Heart,” Roy T. Bennett writes, “The more you feed your mind with positive thoughts, the more you can attract great things in your life.” Barbara Frederickson writes in her landmark paper that negative emotions are when extreme, prolonged or contextually inappropriate behaviors, “produce many grave problems for individuals and society, ranging from phobias and anxiety disorders, aggression and...

manifestation

how we relate to ourselves leaves us either connected, or alone

Live and Let Live: A philosophy for strong relationships

February 13, 2017

by Vera Remes [caption id="attachment_5425" align="alignleft" width="206"] art by Kennedy Shenberg[/caption] Everyone we meet, if only for a minute, we relate to in some way. Think of yourself walking in the mall, throngs of people passing to the left and right. You think very little about them, don’t even look them in the eye. You’re in live and let live mode. But if someone fell, would you step over them or help them up? If someone stole your wallet, would you chase them, struggle over it or let them have it since they must need it more than you. Whatever you do, you are “relating”. Personally, I like the “live and let live” way of being. I can honestly look at a situation unfolding before me--a parent...

Looking in the mirror: All relationships reflect our relationship-with-self

February 8, 2017

The toughest and hardest relationship we will ever have in our lives is our relationship with self. The inner child that lives within has hurts and fears that dictate how we react and relate to others over the course of our lives. That which we dislike and have not embraced inside ourselves gets mirrored back to us by others we encounter. When we are upset by other people’s actions and words, we must look in the mirror to discover what we are not loving about ourselves. Letting go of the past The more we let go of past hurts, not take things others do personally, forgive our faults and stop believing untruths about ourselves based on what others have told us, the better off we will be. When...

relationship with self

attachment style is formed in youth, and follows us into adulthood

Heal the wounds of youth through romantic relationships

February 6, 2017

Falling in love means devoting energy into what another person is thinking or feeling. Research indicates that the childhood attachment style we develop have a lasting effect on our adult romantic relationships. Intimate partners often resemble either, or both parents in a variety of ways. Childhood experiences, whether positive or negative, impact the attachments formed in adult relationships, as discussed in a 2005 study published in the journal of Attachment and Human Development. How childhood relationships affect intimacy as an adult According to the Center for Disease Control, 40-50% of first marriages end in divorce, meaning that few children witness healthy relationships and conflict resolution, leading many to fall into the same conditioned habits and behaviors of their parents. According to a review published by R. Chris Fraley of...

family & kids Love and sex relationship with self

The best time of year to travel – look to the weather

January 23, 2017

I love to travel. From visiting nearby cities and states, to traveling far away, the experience of travel is worth its weight in gold. If you were to ask me when would be the best time to travel, I’d say any and all the time. I do understand, however, that some times of year are seen as better than others. Many base their choices on the weather. [caption id="attachment_5264" align="alignleft" width="300"] Cabo San Lucas, Mexico - Image by Charla Dury[/caption] How can the weather be so important, you ask? It’s all about preference. Wouldn’t a vacation be more enjoyable during calm weather when you can enjoy excursions? I know I would prefer to drive on clear roads instead of ice if I have the option. While some desirable destinations such...

adventure and travel environment

Using a Journal – Making the most of your time

January 19, 2017

Creativity, Energy, Lifestyle

By Rebecca Pall [caption id="attachment_5333" align="aligncenter" width="630"] Ferris Beuller's Day off , the iconic film of looking around and smelling the roses[/caption] “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it.” This quote from the 1986 movie, Ferris Beuller’s Day Off, rings true in today’s day and age more than ever. People have so much going on in their lives that it’s sometimes hard to sit down and really appreciate the time or good experiences that we have in life. One of the best ways to keep track of memories is through a journal. It doesn’t have to be a long entry but, having a journal to keep track of the specifics of a couple special memories, can...

journaling

Resolve your past life: Fix your present

January 13, 2017

by Carlie Currier Do you believe we get more than one chance to get this human life right? Massage therapist, yoga instructor, Rosen method practitioner and artist, Kerstin Zettmar, explains that past life regression hypnosis is similar to regression therapy. Instead of focusing on childhood memories, however, it goes much, much deeper. Vera Remes, owner of Raven Reiki and Mind Key member and writer, started her own practice in hypno-counseling 5 years ago. Past lives have been a significant part of that practice, and she has since become certified to guide clients in past life regression. She believes in the power of visiting past lives to help with issues in your current situations and describes past lives as a, “font of knowledge for inner growth”. New theories on time...

meditation relationship with self spirituality

Rock Your Year with Taraleigh the manifesting unicorn

January 12, 2017

Taraleigh Weathers is a manifesting unicorn! I didn’t know what that meant, either, until I took her four week manifestation course. Taraleigh speaks with authority and clarity, offering real-time, realistic tools for creating what you want in your life. During her Manifesting Unicorns course, I watched the dreams of the course’s other participants unfold, and watched myself lay the groundwork for Mind Key’s next adventure. Now Taraleigh is offering her next course, “Rock Your Year,” to help you attain all of your New Year’s dreams. Don’t have time for another “course?” The best part about taking strides toward your goals is that the more you do, the more time seems to be available to do it. That’s because the universe believes in you, and believes in your...

manifestation

Morning meditation for those short on time

January 12, 2017

When I first heard about Jessica of Jahmu Chai’s tea meditations, I was stoked. Making time for a cup of tea is about as close as I seem to get to meditating these days. Apparently, I’m not the only one. Jess has found a way to take this sacred time and turn it into an even more powerful ritual of intention and peace through the Tea Meditation Project. Below, she explains how it works, and offers a tea meditation that you can start with right now. Our favorite way to practice these meditations are with Jessica's own Jahmu Chai. (I put mine in my coffee!) Get a 10% discount on your order of any Jahmu tea by using coupon code MINDKEY at checkout. [caption id="attachment_5274" align="alignleft" width="225"]...

meditation spirituality

Shifting the patterns of time–Look for the positives

January 7, 2017

Featured image: Adara's Hands by Sean David Wright Regularly taking time for yourself, even with something as simple as a cup of tea, invites time to be more friend than foe. by Barbara Steingas Time is man-made illusion. It is relative to how we perceive it. I’m sure we have all experienced when minutes seem like hours when we’re waiting for, or anticipating something. Conversely, we have also all had time fly by when we were having fun or when we are busy. It’s our perspective that determines if time feels like a friend or a foe. We have the ability to choose and control how we feel about the passing of time. When I cram too many things in a time frame, then I feel pressured and stressed....

January’s Issue: Time – How do you view it?

January 2, 2017

Career, Creativity, Currency, Energy, Health, Lifestyle, Relationship

[caption id="attachment_5204" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Time is a clock in the sand begging to be overlooked - It's only a "thing" if we make it one.[/caption] We depend on time for everything. We are so conditioned to run on or by it, that there's a sense of jealousy or confusion for those who don't know or care. But what is time? We as a society measure it in linear terms. We adhere to this linear definition so tightly that we find it difficult to even be open to a different interpretation. How do we find the time to do all that we hope? Can we manifest more, or bend it? What does it mean to "spend our time wisely” and why is it so important to "stop to...

time

5 ways to rock your year for real this time

December 29, 2016

Mind Key affiliate, Taraleigh Weathers, from the amazing TaraLeighLovesYou and leader of the Rock Your Life movement is doling out tips on making 2017 your best year yet. Mind Key is all about your success. Following TaraLeigh's insightful tips and even signing up for her Rock Your Year Program can be the catalyst for your accomplishing your goals. Her three-week intention-setting and action-taking guided course can help you take 2017 by the unicorn horn! ************************************************************************************** Do you want to have the most magical and amazing year ever? Are you ready rock some goals and take a gander into something amazing and fulfilling? [caption id="attachment_5161" align="alignright" width="526"] TaraLeigh is a dreamer[/caption] It takes focus, action, perseverance, support and a little magic. It might not always be rainbows and unicorns, but I know you have what it takes....

Why you should reflect on 2016

December 27, 2016

[caption id="attachment_5127" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Photo courtesy of Carlie Currier[/caption] By Rebecca Pall After a momentous occasion, one may stop and think about the events that have transpired and how their life has been altered. With December bringing the year to a close, one of the most important things that one can do is look back at the year behind them and think about the good and bad that has happened, as well as how they have changed as a result, and what they might have done differently. Time dedicated to reflection is important, and can add a lot to future life events. Jo Ayoubi, an expert in productivity, gives her insight on why reflection is so important. “Reflection can take many forms and encompass many activities,” Jo said....

Reflection as a tool for perspective

December 26, 2016

[caption id="attachment_5123" align="alignright" width="300"] Photo courtesy of Carlie Currier[/caption] I love words that can have more than one meaning. Those words give my card readings multi-layered nuances. For instance, when I read Shaman Oracle Cards for a client, there’s one card called “Shaman of Reflection.” I decide how to interpret it when I look at it and my client together. I'll get a certain feeling. Sometimes I know that it means thinking hard about something, pondering, considering an action and the consequences. Other times I just know it means seeing a reflection of yourself in something else, someone else, or taking a good look within ourselves and at our actions. Similarly, when I was asked to write about “reflection” this month I debated which tract to...

The true meaning of Santa Claus – Giving

December 23, 2016

[caption id="attachment_5147" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Photo courtesy of www.theconversation.com[/caption] In this age of commercialization, how do we teach our kids the true meaning of Christmas? Perhaps you’re a parent who is considering telling your children the truth about Santa this year. This can be a tricky subject, especially when determining the appropriate age. In an article by Good Housekeeping, Caroline Picard describes a story about a parent who tells her child that Santa Claus exists in all of us, and it’s their time to become “a Santa” by giving an anonymous gift to someone they love, teaching the lesson of unselfish giving. “In our family, we have a special way of transitioning the kids from receiving from Santa to becoming a Santa. This way, the Santa construct is not a lie...

family & kids

Giving back all year long – Stories of Altruism

December 22, 2016

[caption id="attachment_5156" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Giving back with the Mind Key Community[/caption] We see need everywhere. On the news every day we see stories of adults and children struggling to make a living, to feed their families and especially around this time of year, to provide a good holiday season. The holidays are about children, and kids aren’t blind to the need around them--it’s important for them to see it. Studies, such as those published in PLOS and Psychological Science, and Development Psychology have shown that giving to others is our natural human state. What’s more, a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows that helping others has been proven to improve health and longevity. Social Science and Medicine published a study showing that...

Rhode Island

The symbols in our dreams, with Jefferson Harman

December 15, 2016

[caption id="attachment_5068" align="alignright" width="153"] Jefferson Harman[/caption] Jefferson Harman started interpreting his own dreams as a young child. Over time, he came to learn a universal symbolic language which applies to any aspect of life, waking or dreaming. This is when he began to read the symbols present in others’ lives. Through this interpretation, he is able to help others identify specific challenges and how to overcome them. For the past six years, Harman has been interpreting dreams live on the air on “Life Unedited” on WCHE Radio 1520 AM. He also has internet TV show called “Dreaming With…” on StarDreamsCafe.com, in which he interprets for a variety of artists, writers, and entertainers at the Algonquin Hotel in New York City. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="960"] image by Kennedy Shenberg[/caption] Looking...

spirituality

November in a Nutshell

November 30, 2016

Career, Creativity, Currency, Energy, Health, Lifestyle, Relationship

By Carlie Currie In honor of Mind Key’s third anthology, Tempest: Life Upturned, the theme of November has focused on riding out the storms of our lives that can brew during this season. Although this time of year is often seen as a preparation for the happiness of holidays, it can often bring about stress and turbulence. However, sometimes a sense of misdirection can lead us to learning more about ourselves and can be an opportunity for growth. The first theme of this month was mental health awareness. In Tamara’s article, “Art Therapy to Treat Mental Illness” art therapy is used as a creative outlet to cope with mental illness and stress. In addition, her article “How Mental Illness Affects Family Dynamics,” discusses the impact of...

addiction

Sukkot: A Spiritual Harvest

October 31, 2016

Harvest festivals represent renewal of body and mind--a harvesting of past mistakes, experiences, and relationships that is essential to personal development and growth. We are created to gather the balance of life and learn from its intricate patterns—the good and the bad. Connecting with Spirit helps identify with the seemingly mystical and distant aspects of life. This balance and harvesting of life experience is reflected in ancient traditions. That many of them are still practiced today proves their importance in daily life and the human need for inspiration to start anew. The ancient Jewish Festival of Sukkot, like many harvest celebrations, reflects the spiritual side of reaping the fruit of our labors. Beginning the seventh month of the Jewish calendar and ending on Yom Kippur (which...

The Energy of Peace & Manifestation

August 3, 2016

Manifestation is the process of manipulating energy in such a way that we first create and surround ourselves in the vibration what we want and then allow the universe to bring the physical manifestation of that vibration to us. That’s why visualization is such a powerful tool. Visualization allows us to see what we want--the clearer we see it, feel it, sense it, the stronger the vibration we create. That created vibration then has the ability to draw that which we desire to us in a very real way. Visualization works best when it’s directed solely at oneself. In other words, a visualization board made to achieve a promotion or new home is inevitably more likely to come to pass than one made for world peace,...

Using the energy of the forest to heal

July 15, 2016

by Vera Remes We are well aware that the rain forests, often referred to as Nature’s Medicine Cabinet, contain plants from which medicines are derived. Some 120 prescription drugs sold worldwide today are known to contain ingredients derived directly from rain forest plants. According to the U.S. National Cancer Institute, more than two-thirds of all medicines found to have cancer-fighting properties come from rain forest plants. Examples abound. Ingredients obtained and synthesized from a now-extinct periwinkle plant found only in Madagascar (until deforestation wiped it out) have increased the chances of survival for children with leukemia from 20 percent to 80 percent. Even the air and smells of the forest have been known to have healing properties, as proven by the popularity and efficacy of a Japanese...

environment Lifestyle spirituality transitions

You don’t have to be rich to pay it forward

June 27, 2016

When I retired in 2012 and moved to Pennsylvania, I kept telling my friends this would be my time of giving back. I started volunteering at a therapeutic riding center near my home. Started learning Reiki, something I had wanted to do since my twenties. Volunteered at the local Food Pantry and a local Humane Society. I even offered my Reiki services to the senior citizen facility in town but they weren’t keen on the “new age” stuff. Over time I cut down on my activities. Cleaning a litter box the size of a kiddie pool at the Humane Society “cat” house did a number on my asthma. The local Food Pantry had so many volunteers we kept stepping all over ourselves. I still volunteer...

spirituality

Meditation for accepting another’s path

June 21, 2016

If I have never walked the path of my brother If I have never felt his pain If my lessons have not walked a darkened path If I hold every thought every feeling every lesson within my soul I will hold every judgment on this path that I embark on now In my own evaluation Will I reach my hand out to my brother Only seeing his light Remembering only the love As we reach out light to another soul We will allow that connection of light The connection of our own soul to another Both of us becoming part of the universe Connecting Being Both taking our rightful place Leaving all darkness *************************** Kathleen Santora teaches meditations and self-healing through the understanding of one’s own personal energy. A spiritual healer for the past 30 years, Kathleen began trance healing later when she became aware...

give back meditation relationship with self

Global Event – Kylan Fischer Yoga Retreat

June 10, 2016

Energy, Health, Newsbreaks

“Sun-Kissed Yoga Bliss” Retreat to be Offered at CostaBaja™ Resort and Spa Experience Blindfolded Yoga, SUP Yoga and More with Kylan Fischer Chicago, IL - One of the nation’s most popular yoga instructors, Kylan Fischer, will host a five-day wellness retreat for those seeking to unwind from everyday stresses and find their bliss. The retreat will be offered July 25-29, 2016, at the spectacular CostaBaja Resort and Spa, an all-inclusive property just 10 minutes south of downtown La Paz, the capital of Mexico’s Baja California. “Treat yourself to this opportunity to sweat it out, let it go and relax,” offered Kylan. “This tropical getaway enables you to detox from deadlines and dreary daily routines. You’ll feel the exhilaration and pride of gently pushing your yoga practice to new...

Letting Go with Oracle and the written word

May 27, 2016

Professionally, I am a teacher. That is how I pay my rent. How much teaching is done by my own volition? I am not sure sometimes. However, I am sure that leading others to writing as a primary source of detox is the best kind of teaching I can do. As a writer, artist, educator, and participant of the Mind Key project, my purpose has leaned more toward helping others find the stories they need to tell. As resistant as some may be, every single person has a story in words, pictures, or song. Once the creative outlet is found, we can let go of everything else which feels the need to hold us back. Creativity is an integral part of connectedness and restructuring, and some...

spirituality tips & tricks

Meditation for Release and Forgiveness

May 20, 2016

I will release all the negative thoughts and moments that I have experienced in my life Making way to my path of light before me I ask my soul Only to hold the love And walk forward in love only Forget what you are walking from But remember what you are walking to Forgiveness *************************** Thoughts to Awaken the Spirit Kathleen Santora teaches meditations and self-healing through the understanding of one’s own personal energy. A spiritual healer for the past 30 years, Kathleen began trance healing later when she became aware that angels were working with her during healings. She has since learned to step back and allow her angels to come forward and work through her. ...

Let it in–Acceptance of Opportunities

May 17, 2016

The above meme might seem cliche, but this month's theme of release can come in many forms. One thing that you can release are preconceived notions of who you are and what you can or can't do. Until you're faced with a situation, there's no way to know. I say this because recently, my husband and I had the unthinkable happen. Danielle and me in NYC. I was on the phone with the travel company. We planned our 20th anniversary dream trip to Europe. We were going to visit Budapest, Hungary and Prague, Czech Republic. It was going to be incredibly romantic, walking and biking everywhere together, hand in hand (not on the bikes). We were going to go on planned tours and explore on our own and...

growth

What it means to hold on/let go

May 2, 2016

What are you holding on to? We all hold onto something: Physically, emotionally, physically, it's human nature to hold-on. I used to hold onto things. I held onto every little thing I could. Wrapping paper, old dishes, screws, wires, toys, scraps of wood. Everything can be reused. Everything had sentimentality. There was energy in everything I owned. This was as a child. As I grew, so did my collections of things. I realized I couldn't hold onto everything anymore. We accumulate so much. Then there's nothing to do but let go of it or let it consume you. The first things I remember struggling with letting go of was gifts. I remembered every single gift given to me, and couldn't bear to let go of them. I held...

letting go

Natural Medicine – A short story

April 21, 2016

Creativity, Energy, Health, Lifestyle

She ran from the house, her skin cold against the balmy summer air. It could have been late afternoon, the full weight of sun and humidity pressing down against her, and it wouldn’t have mattered. Nothing could warm her now. Her hurried steps brought her to the small patch of woods not far from the apartment. Gnarled limbs, heavy with Spanish Moss, provided sanctuary as she wove her way around the trees. Most of her friends were leery of this place, leery of the creatures that called this swampy spot home. She was far more concerned with the human creatures she left behind her, specifically the so-called friend that climbed on top of her while she was passed out. She woke up to find his hands...

Meditations from the Other SIde

April 14, 2016

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Even though it is the most simplest of things to do To just love seems to be the hardest If we can spend our time only loving And nothing else All of our problems would disappear To just stop and feel love And the light within you You will see and feel How it changes your world ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Thoughts to Awaken the Spirit Kathleen Santora teaches meditations and self-healing through the understanding of one’s own personal energy. A spiritual healer for the past 30 years, Kathleen began trance healing later when she became aware that angels were working with her during healings. She has since learned to step back and allow her angels to come forward and work through her. ...

Weehawken, NJ EVENT – Shamanic Drum Circle on Friday 4/15

April 13, 2016

Energy, Newsbreaks

...

NJ shamanic healing

Meditation made easy

April 12, 2016

Sometimes meditation is hard, but this little moving meditation is so simple that I've taught it to my girls who are 4 and 7. It's something I hope that we can all come back to when life seems overwhelming. It's a great way to recenter, and focus. It's a way to find your spirituality, and to meditate without struggling to remove your thoughts from your mind. The simple act of walking slowly while bringing your hands to your heart or your face allows you to feel your thoughts without judgement. Even if you only have a few moments, check out the beginning of the video to get the gist of it. Listening further will take you deeper into how this helps quiet the mind and bring peace...

Finding Tara

April 11, 2016

I was never a, “If you can’t see it, it isn’t there,” kind of person, but I wasn’t a dandelions-in-my-hair, tie-dyed spirit guide either. As previously mentioned in other blogs, I became jaded in regard to anything metaphysical after my husband of seven years dumped me for a fantasy - a pretty, blonde self-proclaimed medium who sold crystal skulls, bought married men element pendants, and met them for lunches at quaint New England bistros. Granted, no resemblance, still one of my girls After my divorce, I worked my ass off and rarely slept in order to regain my independence. In two years I became self-sufficient, living in my own apartment, working two successful teaching jobs, and maintaining a healthy relationship. Still, something was amiss. Confidence, peace of...

self-discovery spiritual growth

Where Shamans negotiate with the gods

March 25, 2016

Vera Remes As the founder of and practitioner with Raven Reiki, Vera Remes offers Usui Reiki with nuances of Shamanism and psychic intuition. She also offers Shaman Oracle and Angel Card readings and is a certified H3 Energy Healing Therapist. Vera's column will focus on the many aspects of Shamanism. *************************** For a long time I didn't feel comfortable cruising the Upper World. I resonated with animals and the earthy feel of the Lower World and was comfortable there. Many of my friends were exactly the opposite, identifying with angels and shunning the Lower World. Having been forced in a recent Shamanic seminar to repeatedly journey to the Upper World, I found it compelling and a source of great wisdom. I encourage everyone to journey to the Upper World,...

Meditations from the Other Side

March 24, 2016

Thoughts to Awaken the Spirit Kathleen Santora teaches meditations and self-healing through the understanding of one’s own personal energy. A spiritual healer for the past 30 years, Kathleen began trance healing later when she became aware that angels were working with her during healings. She has since learned to step back and allow her angels to come forward and work through her. ************************** I am in perfect balance Today I will remember my perfection I am in perfect balance As I remember this every part of me heals I am in perfect balance My spirit in its perfection radiates to all of me In my remembrance The vehicle that was given me remembers its function and it purpose The universe in all its perfection Sent us with perfection I will remember today I am in perfect balance ****************************** If...

Journeying with The Green Tara

March 23, 2016

Tara Ann Lesko Tara Ann Lesko is a woman of many talents. Art, poetry, teaching and exploring spirituality are her loves and she enjoys helping others get in touch with their creative side through art and writing. *************************** The Goddess Tara vowed: "There are many who wish to gain enlightenment in a man's form, And there are few who wish to work for the welfare of living beings in a female form. Therefore may I, in a female body, work for the welfare of all beings, until such time as all humanity has found its fullness." Years ago, when I was still under an illusion of contentment in regard to who I was and what I was doing in the world, a gas station attendant told me that in Arabic my name meant “star”. I knew “Tara” meant...

spirituality

Yin and Yang: A Christian Point of View

March 22, 2016

The concept of Yin and Yang sprouted its roots in China several hundred years before Christ’s birth. It represented Taoism, a religion that focuses on two opposing parts, one dark one light, one evil one good, one balanced one unbalanced. But the true beauty of it is that when placed together, the duality of this symbol recognizes the true balance of life itself. It takes these two clashing parts to make a whole, something well rounded and spiritually progressive. I can relate my Christian faith to this concept, as it is the very basic foundation of my spiritual core. If Yin and Yang represent two equal yet opposing forces, then I find a congruent principle in my own spiritual journey. My faith understands the acceptance of...

The energy of the equinox

March 21, 2016

Today I'd like to talk about faerie energy. We at Mind Key chose to talk about yin and yang and balance this month because March heralds the spring equinox, which happened yesterday (March 20th) at 12:30 AM (EDT). The equinoxes (one in the fall and one in the spring) occur when the earth's axis is almost perpendicular, the sun shines directly on the equator, and we experience an (essentially) equal amount of light and dark over the course of one day. The equinoxes remind us of how humanity, like Mamma Earth, experiences a brief period of balance in our lives. Those moments may or may not coincide with the equinoxes, but these are good points in time to reflect upon those moments, and to recognize how fleeting...

Yin and Yang

Yin and Yang – What does it mean?

March 7, 2016

As you can see, the symbol means so much, both within its origin, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and throughout the world. All of us have each of these characteristics within ourselves. Although some characteristics might seem awkward or downright offensive (dirty?) they're certainly not meant that way. They're just meant to show opposites on either side of a whole. The trick is balance. As the symbol above is split in equal parts, so should we. Any time we are out of balance, our bodies and souls show signs of wear, of dissonance. Those signs could include (but are certainly not limited to:) Illness Depression Lackluster Anger Clouded thinking Finding true balance is incredibly difficult. I certainly haven't found it. I strive each day to incorporate more harmony into myself. Have you found your harmony?...

Traditional Chinese Medicine Yin and Yang

Mind Key: Creating the balance you need to thrive

March 2, 2016

Creativity, Energy, Lifestyle

Recently, Mind Key has had some wonderful support from a variety of different people and different backgrounds. Everyone resonates with the need to find and follow your own path. Some of us are just beginning to understand that only by using our god-given talents are we truly being of service to ourselves and to the world—and that those talents are the very things that make us happiest. The question is how to take those passions, talents, and happy thoughts and meld them into something amazing that can sustain us, sustain others, and bring abundance into our lives—in every sense of the word. Tackling this question is a huge undertaking. So many books, websites, coaches, and more have game plans for how to do this yet none of...

Mind Key is open during construction!

March 1, 2016

Jon and I for Christmas pics 2015 Hiya! My Name’s Charla Dury and I’m the editor here at Mind Key. I wanted to introduce myself. While you’ve probably seen blogs from me, I don’t know that I’ve taken a chance to actually say hi. So hi. Now that that’s done, I want to let you know that Mind Key is in a bit of a transition period. We’re working hard to build a diverse group of folks on our blog (both regular columnists as well as guest bloggers) to give you a wide range of material to help you on your journey. We want to be sure to hit on all of the aspects of Mind Key that you’re here for; Health, Spirituality, Creativity, Connection and...

Health

Spirituality and “higher-self”

February 22, 2016

This month, we've explored relationships of all varieties—family relationships, romantic relationships, and the ever-changing, relationship-with-self. For our last week, we're going to explore the not to be ignored important relationship-with-higher-self. The definition of higher-self varies from individual to individual. Some define it as god, the universe, spirit… some recognize it as power from without, and others as power from within. Our higher self is comprised of our angels, our guides, our inner wisdom, those who have passed on and are still with us, sentient beings we connect with, innate knowledge, intuition, and yes, our god(s)/goddess(es). There are so many more. I could go on and on. The one thing that binds all of the above concepts is that our higher selves are connected to the greater fabric of the...

relationship with self relationships spirituality

Motherhood: The ultimate relationship-with-self

February 5, 2016

Motherhood changed me. Danielle Rose as a brand new mother of two That's kind of funny to say, isn't it? I mean, doesn't it go without saying? Where there was once one, now there are two… two bodies sharing a body, two schedules to navigate, and two egos competing for space (and despite what anyone says, babies' egos are huge!). Then there came two… two children that is. And no one tells you that having two kids isn't twice the work of having one—it's ten times the work. Because with one blissful baby it's impossible to see how the intersection of bodies, schedules, and egos multiply exponentially. Ultimately, what happened was that I lost myself in the wild tangle of everything childhood. Motherhood became an all-encompassing title that didn't...

family & kids Love and sex mindfulness relationship with self

Love yourself to love others

February 4, 2016

I used to think that if I took time to care for my needs, that I was being selfish. So I would give of myself to a fault to others. I people pleased in lieu of listening to what I needed or wanted. As a result, this depleted my energy and contributed to me developing an autoimmune disease. Women, especially in our society, are looked at as the caretakers, causing many wives and mothers to use all their energy, focus and resources fulfilling the needs of their family and neglect to properly take care of themselves. This can cause underlying resentment and family dysfunction. I found this to be true for myself. I would take that resentment and internalize it, beating myself up and causing...

Love and sex relationship with self

Positive Self Talk

February 2, 2016

We've all heard of the power of positive thinking, but do you believe it? Really believe it? Stuart Smalley - SNL I think we all remember Stuart Smalley on Saturday Night Live. He's one of the first thoughts that comes to mind when I think about positive self talk. His mantra, "I am good enough. I am smart enough. And doggone it, people like me!" might sound ridiculous, but it's not. In The Science of Self Talk, a blog posted on NPR in 2014, several studies regarding brain-body connections are sited saying that how you see yourself effects how you relate to the physical world. And how you talk to (and about) yourself, either out loud or in your head, effects how you see yourself. Think about that. If you "see" yourself...

relationship with self

Happy New Year…..I’m Tapped Out On Self Improvement.

January 2, 2016

I love to read blogs. Blogs of all kinds. "Stress Almost Killed Me-Then I Changed My Mind", "Do You Focus On Your Needs Or The Needs Of Others", "How To Be A More Mindful Parent". The list can go on and on. We read blogs to get information, see a different side to something, learn a new craft..whatever.What I have found, as I write this blog, is that it's another three second sound bite. My life for the last 10 years has been, mind you slowly, getting more distracted. As I, write this, I'm texting with a TV on in the background. I have read numerous blogs on how to be more "zen". Do one thing at a time. Take your time. (I'm now watching...

Feel the Difference.

December 30, 2015

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Beauty Training

Food That Boost Metabolism

December 21, 2015

Training Yoga

Holiday Season Stress? Yes, You’ve Got in Under Control

December 11, 2015

This month Mind Key will be sharing stories and tips for living in the moment with ease and brilliance this holiday. Inspirational author and motivational speaker, Azuka Zuke, provides encouragement and insights on how we can remain positive and present with our loved ones and the beauty of peace during even the most stressful moments this holiday.author Azuka Zuke * * * It’s holiday season again. A time when we get into the frenzy of celebrations. From holiday songs to decoration adorned houses lining streets of holiday shoppers. For some people, this is an exciting time. But for others, this can also be a tough time of year. We all want peace, beauty, mindfulness, happiness, strength and joy, but oftentimes...

holidays

Becoming Whole: Making peace with the light and the dark

November 7, 2015

At Mind Key we believe are all whole and perfect, exactly the way we are. The only way to accept and make peace with this truth is by exploring the shadow side of ourselves and bringing it to light. In our anthology, Yin and Yang: The Duality of Balance our healers, artists and writers share their insights and journeys into achieving wholeness via both the yin and yang sides of themselves and the world around them. Let them inspire you on your own path of healing and happiness in the following reviews of their contributions to this beautiful, full color work of art:Award-winning author, inspirational speaker and radiant life coach, Barbara Steingas, helps people find the pieces they need to solve their personal health...

inspiration Yin and Yang

What if God were still making up his mind? Poetry by Gene Myers

November 3, 2015

Creativity, Energy, Lifestyle

Gene Myers lives his passion as a journalist, musician and poet. He started with a deep love of music—writing lyrics in middle school, frustrating his bandmates by neglecting the melody. In high school a friend finally said, "That would be poetry, Gene!" After that realization, Gene fell hard for poetry. Today, Gene is a columnist for the Haiku Society of America, and his poems have been published in journals such as Frogpond Journal and The Rutherford Red Wheelbarrow Anthology. Still, music never took a backseat. Gene's column, The Joy of Life, which runs in New Jersey newspapers, features celebrity music interviews that go deeper. He always looks for melodies to accompany his poetry—even, he said, the most cerebral examples. And he has never stopped singing in the car...

Confessions of a Ghost Hunter

October 29, 2015

There are really ghosts, spirits, whatever you wish to call them. How do I know? I’ve had conversations with them. After taking a paranormal certification course, I went on several “ghost hunts”. Though initially reticent, I finally began asking questions in an empty room using a tape recorder, video camera, and K-2 meter. Although I wasn't speaking to a “human” being, I seemed to record real interactions with something otherworldly. The heck with those TV ghost programs, I’ve heard my name called and what sounds like guinea pigs squealing. I've since learned that angels sound like that because they vibrate at such a high frequency. Soon after we got our black lab Watson, my Jack Russell named...

Loving spirit contact

October 27, 2015

As a sensitive psychic and tarot reader, when your own loved one dies, you don't really think of using your gift. You are just like anyone else, you just lost a loved one and are sad and at a loss.On the day of my own Grandfather's wake, Everett Henry Casson (my Grandfather), was at the funeral home awaiting our families’ arrival. I am never early, in fact, I’m usually late but, for some odd reason, I was the first one there. I was 20 minutes early. I walked through the doors and the Funeral Director asks me who I was there to visit. I tell him that I'm there to visit my grandfather, and the man informs me that I’m the first one...

In a Nutshell: All about the Darkness

October 26, 2015

Career, Creativity, Currency, Energy, Health, Lifestyle, Relationship

Darkness has always been associated with the scary, frightening or evil. The light, on the other hand, seems to represent goodness, comfort and ease. Mind Key writer, Rebecca Godina sums it up in her blog Embrace the Dark, when she said: "We have been taught to fear the dark. After all, our myths inform us that is where the monsters lurk."But what of those peaceful moments at night? Those sweet dreams, or midnight trysts?Destruction is often represented by darkness, Rebecca said, and destruction represents change, and change can be scary. But it doesn't have to be this way."Imagine how much more painful the process of transformation would be if it was done in the full light of day," Rebecca said.After all, in Three Reasons to Love...

Embrace the Dark

October 20, 2015