Danielle Rose

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...

meditation

What is medicine, really?

April 6, 2016

Health

I was up to my elbows in dirty water, dingy sponge in hand. I'd been at it two days and the empty apartment was still only half cleaned—my apartment—my new life in a new town, a new state. And I was alone. The sun was setting on a Wednesday night. I'd had no dinner, I had no furniture, no friends, no bed other than a half-deflated air mattress. My kids were three states away and my marriage in shambles. My entire life was crumbling around me. If not for an album I'd already over-listened to a god-zillion times, I might have gone completely over the edge. But there was comfort in Nahko's words, words that offered hope… the hope I'd come to this new place to find. Still,...

The energy of the equinox

March 21, 2016

Energy, Lifestyle

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

A Yin/Yang Herbal

March 18, 2016

Health

Yin and yang represent different aspects of everything that exists. Within us we have a measure of each, and that measure changes in any given moment or situation. It's the melding and balance of the two that is important. In Yin and Yang, as in the ocean, the balance is ever changing In herbalism, there is little difference. As Charla wrote in her blog on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture, and yin and yang energy, part of healing comes from balancing these two energies inside us. We do this often without thinking. When we are dry, we drink water and moisturize. When we are overwhelmed with moisture (think runny nose, bloating, etc.), we take antihistamines, diuretics, or force perspiration with exercise or using a sauna or similar treatment. In herbalism,...

herbs Yin and Yang

NJ EVENT: St. Catherine Art Expo March 11th-13th

March 10, 2016

Newsbreaks

St. Catherine of Bologna, Patron of the Arts Association is holding their This is a wonderful event that encourages us to use art to stay connected, touching those parts inside us we don't give enough attention. Amateur and professional artists of all mediums will have their work displayed in this juried exhibition. Live music and free hors devours each evening, and a poetry reading at 7pm Saturday. Free admission, donations gratefully accepted. For more information, visit www.stcatharts.org or stop by www.mindkey.me/calendar to view this and other great events. ******************************************** If you are interested in having your event, business, product, or idea highlighted on Mind Key, visit www.mindkey.me/promotion....

photography poetry

NY Event: Change your water, Change your life

March 2, 2016

Newsbreaks

Water is the one of the most important things we put into our bodies on a regular basis. The question is, however, what's in your water? As an avid water drinker (it's about all I drink besides tea), I know certain waters agree with me better than others. This Friday's free event is one of many Bobbie and Rita have been doing to help people find the best water possible, and how it has helped them. Rita says, "We have had tremendous success with helping people and want to keep sharing this. There will be many testimonials that you will hear and the benefits of drinking this water is incredible. No other water compares, especially bottled water and you will find out why. This is a free...

snapshot

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...

Spirituality and “higher-self”

February 22, 2016

Energy, Lifestyle, Relationship

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

Energy, Lifestyle, Relationship

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

Why I love lavender

January 22, 2016

Health

Lavender is my favorite essential oil. It always has been. It was the first oil I worked with, and it is still one of the only oils I use on a regular basis. My original thought was to create an "essential" essential oil kit for you, but in the end I realized, as I had many years ago, that for most of my essential oil needs, lavender fits the bill. Here's why I love lavender: It's gentle, yet extremely effective It's gentle enough for babies. Yes, babies… although always check with your health care practitioner, and be careful. I used it constantly while pregnant—and it was one of the only essential oils I did use. Although it's gentle enough for a baby's skin and respiratory system, it's powerful...

Health herbs

Making Space: Your weight loss plateau

January 14, 2016

Health, Lifestyle

I was in a yoga class not that long ago… and I heard the instructor say something I hear over and over again in yoga classes… "Breathe space into your body, in between the bones and joints." Breathe… a key element to yoga and to life… but it was the "making space" that hit me this time. My weight is something I've struggled with since having children. Those few extra pounds reveal themselves in places I'd rather they not. Skimming Louise L. Hay's book, "You Can Heal Your Life," shows us where aches, pains, and even weight will settle when we mentally allow it. I won't tell you where my weight settles, because that will be too telling of my own personal demons… but I will say,...

Health mindfulness weight loss Yoga

Making a 365 resolution–is it right for you?

January 7, 2016

Uncategorized

What is the difference between a resolution and a #365project? Not much, other than a #365project is something you resolve to do every day for an entire year. Writing coach, Marisa Goudy Today I want to share writing coach Marisa Goudy's experience with #365projects. I've done this a million times--usually promising to write, walk, or do yoga everyday. Usually, these resolutions fall flat--whether they're made on January 1st or in the middle of the year. Two years ago, the same year her second child was born, Marisa successfully completed her #365project...

resolution

TONIGHT: Live readings and discussion on how to live your passion

January 6, 2016

Uncategorized

This evening, members of the Mind Key Project will be reading poetry, essays and fiction from the Mind Key Anthologies at the Kinnelon Public Library in NJ and there are still spots available for YOU!! The Mind Key Anthologies are a compilation of art and writing intended to help others discover happiest and healthiest self by following their passion—not just in their free time, but for a living. The theme of being inspired by art and bringing that inspiration into everyday life runs through each of our publications. The contributors are healers, writers, artists, psychics and more, who are on a path of professional and personal self-discovery and healing. They each enjoy providing resources to help others do the same. Mind Key's inaugural book, The Mind Key Project: An Anthology, debuted...

What is a resolution? Why do it?

January 5, 2016

Uncategorized

What is a resolution?Merriam Webster defines "resolution" simply as: the act of finding an answer or solution to a conflict, problem, etc. : the act of resolving something : an answer or solution to something.This offers an interesting light in which to cast our New Years resolutions. What are we actually doing when we make them? Are we resolving to fix or find an answer to a conflict or problem in our life?Considering this definition prior to jumping feet first into a resolution that is impossible to keep could provide the insight needed to make that resolution last. According to StatisticBrain.com, the #1 New Year's resolution is probably exactly what you think it might be: To lose weight. The first question to ask is why. Why...

resolution weight loss

2015 in Review

December 31, 2015

Uncategorized

Charla Dury2015 has brought me many challenges and opportunities for growth in my professional life (taking on editing for Mind Key and a promotion at work) and health struggles personally revolving around depression and kidney issues. I am looking forward to rising above and beyond both professionally and personally in 2016, taking on the daunting task of finding myself in this sea of life as well as finding my passion and living it to the fullest. Mind Key is a large part of my life and I'd love for it to rise with me!Barbara Steingas2015 is the year I finally got over my fears and hesitations about sharing the strategies I used to heal myself from what is considered to be an incurable disease. I started my coaching...

Ringing in new holiday traditions for happiness and health

December 25, 2015

Uncategorized

Merry Christmas, World!Whether under a palm tree, an evergreen, or falling snow, I find it interesting how the holidays represent so much for us as individuals.Some people go all-in, shopping and decorating and baking and celebrating… while others prefer to bah-humbug it, and stay under the covers. Most of us, in my experience, prefer some combination of the two.But why do the holidays mean so much? Is it the marketing? The spirituality? The ancient history of celebrating at this time of year? Earlier this week I discussed celebrating the "coming of the light." No doubt this history is part of what compels us to continue the celebrations, even if we are not religious or spiritual. It is likely, in large part, what brought about the...

A Christmas (or post-Christmas) craft for all-ages

December 22, 2015

Uncategorized

I had wanted to do a craft for the holidays that I could share with you all. I'm still working on pulling those ideas together...

Celebrating the solstice across culture and religion

December 21, 2015

Uncategorized

Winter Solstice at Stonehenge In my mind, the solstice is why we say "happy holidays" instead of Merry Christmas. It's why we celebrate the New Year, Christmas, Hanukkah and any other number of holidays this time of year. It's the real reason for the season.Please let's not get into a religious discussion here. I'm not a pagan, nor am I a witch. In fact, I was raised Catholic. This isn't about religion. It's not even about spirituality. Well… except for how the tradition of the season resonates with each of us in a very spiritual way.The Winter Solstice an actual astronomical event. Today is when the day is the shortest and the night is its longest. From here on out, the days will only grow longer until the...

holidays traditions

Healthy splurging…. a tradition of self-love

December 16, 2015

Uncategorized

Dictionary.com defines "diet" as the general condition of the body or mind with reference to soundness and vigor. This definition is rapidly followed by entry number 2: a particular selection of food, especially as designed or prescribed to improve a person's physical condition or to prevent or treat a disease. And entry number 3: such a selection or a limitation on the amount a person eats for reducing weight.We're almost halfway through December, and I'm thinking that all of the above are probably the last things on my mind at the moment. I'm surrounded by Thanksgiving leftovers (luckily they're all gone now… but the sweets lingered for a frighteningly long time), gingerbread houses (it's amazing how much icing I unwittingly licked off my fingers), Christmas...

Health self-care tradition

Wearing and living your enchanted muse with avalove

December 11, 2015

Uncategorized

Ms. Ava Hu"I hope to be able to inspire others to feel good when they wear avalove, and live their dream!"Ava Hu is a writer and artist and businesswoman who is most passionate about the moment creation happens. She has contributed four poems to Mind Key's Yin and Yang: The Duality of Balance and is a wildly successful clothing artist in New York City. Ava's muse, spirit, and inspiration is the moment creation happens. (Click HERE to read a review of her poetry and accompanying art in Yin and Yang).Inspired by music and nature—by branches, bodies of water, flowers, birds and botanics, and feathers of all shapes and sizes—Ava's life has been dedicated to following the song of her heart and her soul to create...

poetry

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

December 11, 2015

Energy, Health, Lifestyle

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

Surviving the most wonderful time of the year

December 9, 2015

Uncategorized

Peace, joy, happiness…All words that we use to define the holiday season.But how many of us actually feel these deep emotions during what is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year?Instead, we suffer through the holiday hustle and bustle. The next trip to the store. The next gift we can't really afford. The next party we don't have the energy to enjoy…. And on and on and on it goes. We promise ourselves this year it will be different. This year we will sit and enjoy the holidays. This year we will spend more time with our family and less ticking off our endless to-do lists.Sometimes it works. Usually not for long stretches, but in those blissful moments when our children get...

holidays love money stress

Your most essential self with essential oils

November 20, 2015

Health

I believe we all want to feel vibrant, healthy and express ourselves with our personal touch of creativity and beauty. We want to feel more abundant, seen, and loved. ~Jane Kamala Morba Jane Kamala MorbaMystic, photographer, Aromatherapy Wellness Advocate, storyteller and coach, Jane Morba believes we are all unique and each have important contributions to the world."It's important that we connect with our life force and sensuality to attract what we desire." Jane's mission is to encourage people to use earth based practices to heal body, mind and spirit, to balance the masculine and feminine qualities in our lives, and to support intimacy. She practices a blend of Buddhism, goddess feminine wisdom, Hinduism, and the school of yoga. She is a yoga teacher, trained in...

yoga

Finding healing for body, mind and soul at the Mind Key Winter Solstice Celebration

November 18, 2015

Health

Barbara Steingas is an award-winning author, inspirational speaker and radiant life coach. She has written three books which share her tools of healing and wholeness through body, heart and spirit, drawing on her personal path of healing, and 30 years experience as a physical therapist. Her coaching, workshops and talks are designed to help you quickly identify the missing pieces to your personal healing puzzle, optimize your health and vitality, and live the radiant life you deserve.As a member of the Mind Key Community, Barbara will be joining us at the Winter Solstice Celebration this Saturday in West Milford, NJ. Visit www.mindkey.me/festivals to learn more about this day of free events, demonstrations, crafts, live music and open mic, and more for the entire family."I have...

Health inspiration reiki

Meet The Village Shaman at the Mind Key Winter Solstice Celebration 11/21/15

November 17, 2015

Health

We are pleased to announce The Village Shaman as one of our vendors and healers at the Mind Key Winter Solstice Festival in West Milford, NJ this Saturday Today, Kieran of The Village Shaman shares The Village Shaman's philosophy and offerings:"The whole is more than the sum of its parts". ~ AristotleHolistic care addresses not only imbalances of the physical body, but encourages harmony within the entire being, body, mind and spirit. The Village Shaman believes that the best healing occurs within a partnership between client and practitioner, in which the client is educated and inspired to take an active part in sustaining their well-being in all aspects of life. Through a variety of modalities, we offer an opportunity to rediscover health, peace and empowerment....

herbalism

Sneek peek: The Mind Key Winter Solstice Celebration and holiday shop

November 16, 2015

Health

This week we will be sharing the stories and offerings of vendors that will be joining us at the Mind Key Winter Solstice Celebration this Saturday, November 21st from 11:30-5 pm. There will be talks, live music, and a number of free events and demonstrations.Learn more about: The Village Shaman Living your most radiant lifeMuses with Scissors creativity for allEssential oils and goddess energyThe Winter Solstice Celebration is a day of vendors, music, talks and events for the entire family. Finish your holiday shopping early with our vendors, and with the Mind Key gift certificate, offering products and services to help you live your happiest, healthiest, most inspired life--the perfect gift for anyone ready to live their passion. Join us at Lindy Lake Manor house270 Maple Road,...

new jersey

Scrivener Tutorial: Why I wouldn’t use any other word processing or organizational program

November 13, 2015

Uncategorized

Whether you've never heard of Scrivener, or whether you use it regularly, this simple, easy-to-use program is always surprising me with how versatile, effective, and powerful it truly is.While it's impossible to talk about everything Scrivener does in one blog or tutorial, today I'm discussing why this program is one of the most effective time-saving and organizational tools I discovered as a novelist and a freelance writer.For one, I can keep everything I'm working on in one handy-dandy online "file cabinet." This means if I'm NaNoWriMo-ing, and need to pick up a phone call with a contact for an interview, I can click off my NaNoWriMo folder and easily click to my article folder, creating a new blank document in the appropriate spot.I can keep...

NaNoWriMo novel organization writing

Becoming Whole: Making peace with the light and the dark

November 7, 2015

Energy, Lifestyle

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

The Making of Yin and Yang: The Duality of Balance

November 6, 2015

Uncategorized

See how editor, Danielle Rose compiled the art and writing from contributing artists and writers to create Yin and Yang: The Duality of Balance, an anthology of art and writing that speaks to balancing the shadows and light within. She takes us through the inception stage of the book, the program used to create the spreads, and how the file was rendered for proofing before being sent to print. Plus get a sneak peek of the interior art!Help us get this project rolling by preordering your copy today at www.mindkey.me/anthology --we guarantee it in your hands by the holidays...

writing Yin and Yang

Juggler of the World, art by Dana Bree

November 5, 2015

Uncategorized

Artist and designer, Dana Bree, has always been intrigued with questions of alternate realities, past and future lives, and our present course.“I have always loved to make art, draw and paint what I see in real life as well as give voice and image to my dreams,” Dana said. “I have always had a very active, colorful and memorable dream life.”Dana's artwork is a fantastic and bold melding of dream and reality, creating the perfect jumping off point for conversations about the metaphysical, spiritual and magical realms, which are often born of a similar melding.xAs an artist, Dana believes that a connection to, and an opportunity to discover new things with like minded individuals, is essential to her health, happiness, and creative progress.The Master Juggler,...

Yin and Yang

The power of simple words, images, and art: Ava M. Hu in Yin and Yang

November 4, 2015

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Photography by JoAnna SchillaciYin and Yang poet, Ava M. Hu, is an artist and poet currently residing in NYC. She designs her own clothing line called avalove with a shop in Artists & Fleas in Chelsea Market, NYC. She creates one poem, one metaphor at a time. Ava received the Amy Award from Poets & Writers magazine as best woman poet under 30 in NYC, and Jane Hirshfield picked her poem, Varanasi, as first place for the America's Review Poetry contest.Ava M. HuShe has submitted a number of simple poems for inclusion in Yin and Yang: The Duality of Balance. Ava's word choice is exquisite, eliciting raw, and often nostalgic emotion from a few short lines of descriptive language. She does this in all her pieces, whether...

nature poetry

Nature reaches to the Cosmos with Elisabeth Ladwig in “Yin and Yang”

November 4, 2015

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"In Dryad of Death And Rebirth, the photo captures yin," Sarah said. "Though her roots are decaying in the earth, without that death, new life cannot grow.Hailing from the mountains of West Milford, New Jersey, Elisabeth Ladwig, an award-winning conceptional photographer and artist believes "that life’s mysteries fall within the parameters of scientific explanation, that science abides by the Laws of Nature, and that nature is magical."This belief is conveyed through her digitally composed photography, each piece with elements of nature and with an anonymous subject, offering a variety of metaphors for the miracles all around us, and for humankind’s relationship with the Earth and with the Cosmos.“Anonymity allows the viewer to take part in writing the story,” Elisabeth says, “and that story is going...

nature

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...

How do you glisten? Artwork by Heather Taylor for “Yin and Yang”

November 3, 2015

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Today, Mind Key writers, Tamara Rokicki and Danielle Rose, share their thoughts on anthology contributor Heather Taylor and her photography which is included in Yin and Yang: The Duality of Balance, available for preorder today.Heather Taylor is a mom first, but she refuses to let motherhood define her solely, and is continually creating, whether photography, art, crafts or food. Glisten Dichotomically by Heather TaylorTamara writes that in Heather's anthology photo, Glisten Dichotomically, shown here, Heather brings us an ethereal concept wrapped in raw natural beauty. "The spirit of the earth reaches out from the picture and allows us to connect with foliage, landscape and wildlife," Tamara said. "I can hear the footsteps reverberating off the wooden planks of the trail, the cool air caressing...

photography Yin and Yang

Striking the balance: Barbara Steingas’ story of having it all, but in moderation for Yin and Yang

November 3, 2015

Uncategorized

author Barbara SteingasAward-winning author, inspirational speaker and radiant life coach, Barbara Steingas, has shared personal story of finding balance in health in Yin and Yang: The Duality of Balance. Barbara's passion is helping others optimize their health and vitality. She assists people in finding the pieces they need to solve their personal health puzzle through coaching services, talks, workshops, and her writing. All three of her books represent different facets of whole-body, whole-spirit health including, "The Healing Puzzle," her personal story of "overcoming a chronic illness through unconditional love," and "Germans are Funny, Too!" which helped her embrace the emotional side of growing up with her "cuckoo kraut family." She has also written "Solving The Crohn’s & Colitis Puzzle: Piecing Together Your Picture of Optimal...

Health

Using Light by Night by Kevin Hall: From “Yin and Yang: The Duality of Balance”

November 2, 2015

Uncategorized

This week we will be sharing some of the beautiful artwork and writing included in our upcoming anthology Yin and Yang: The Duality of Balance. We hope that you will consider supporting us by pre-ordering a copy of this book at great prices before it is too late.In "Using Light by Night," Dr. Kevin Hall talks about his struggle with life's curveballs. In his medical practice Kevin encompasses a wide variety of modalities for health to create a wide-angle vision of what’s happening. So, this wide-angle applies in his essay as well.“There are people that looked up at the starts and just saw stars, then there are those that looked up and saw constellations,” Kevin said. “I’m a constellation seer.”Kevin approaches both health and life...

Yin and Yang

The energies and power of the New Jersey Highlands

October 30, 2015

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The Haunted Wood--Photo by Reiki Ruth AmaranteNestled deep in the New Jersey Highlands, between what is now known as the towns of Mahwah, Ringwood, and Sloatsburg, NY, is a secluded mountain with mysterious lore. Therein resides a melding of cultures from Native American to Irish, German and African American, as well as a rich mining history, historical moments in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Stories claim the Natives called the area "The Haunted Wood."To Ringwood Manor graveyard--by Claire T. Dunn Due to the geography—steep and often craggy mountains rich with iron ore—the largely inaccessible Haunted Wood was a haven for runaways, escaped slaves and others. Its perimeters were settled early in our country's history, but predominately for the iron ore. Even today, the heart...

New Jersey HIghlands

Hunting ghosts in your backyard–A kid-friendly craft

October 28, 2015

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Getting in touch with your paranormal side sometimes means having a little fun with little ones.These cute little ghosts are great to make with kids-at-heart of all ages and look great swinging from a tree.You will need:White tulle,scissors,elastics,rubber bands or thread,fishing twine,a black marker. Cut about an arm's length rectangle of tulle.Fold the rectangle in half long-way, then in half again. Pinch the folded end to make the head of the ghost Use an elastic, rubber band, or string to secure the pinched end at the "neck." Finishing touches: Using the holes in the tulle, thread a length of fishing twine through the ghost's head, and use the sharpie to add eyes.Now your ghosts are ready to hang from your favorite haunt....

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...

Battling the darkness as a spiritual warrior

October 22, 2015

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In this time of great change, indigo children are the souls born to pave pathways through the darkness for future generations. They are considered the spiritual warriors of our time.Indigo children, so called because of the predominant indigo color in their aura, often undergo periods of great turmoil and personal stigma, and must accept and embrace the shadow side of themselves in order to transform the the world into light.   Ara MacDonald explains the astrological implications of being an indigo child, and what it means to be a spiritual warrior.   "Spiritual warriors encounter the urge to fight, but the spiritual side asks if it’s a battle worth fighting… having a battle with self to discover the answer," Ara said.   The indigo children are born with...

spiritual warrior trauma

In a nutshell: Making sense of the dreamworld

October 19, 2015

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"Ever since the inception of civilization dreaming has fascinated humanity," Tamara Rokicki writes. Whether an exhilarating or frightening, dreams reach deep into our psyches and find the soft places that have deep meaning—often only to us.In The Inconspicuous Dream, Tamara shares how she finally made peace with a life-long recurring dream."Sometimes we spend an immeasurable amount of time hoping to decipher the darkest, deepest crooks of our minds, but what if they’re meant to remain that way?In A Dreamy Interview with Jefferson Harman, Jefferson explains that dreams are conversations with one's higher self that come through in a way that we can accept. Disturbing dreams come when we aren't paying attention—when we are focused on one thing, but the important information is flying around in...

A dreamy interview with Jefferson Harman

October 15, 2015

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Jefferson HarmanJefferson Harman has been interpreting dreams professionally since his early thirties. As a small child he had a nightmare so vivid it made him hyperaware of his other dreams. As a result, Jefferson began connecting patterns and was able to see that his daydreams, and the path he thought his life was taking, were closely related to his dreams."As I … began to articulate this with my friends, I was able to interpret dreams for them, and then for others as I do on my radio show."Jefferson speaks on Life Unedited radio show, (usually on the first Saturday of each month, but check his events calendar for schedule changes). Life Unedited will run a special Halloween edition featuring Jefferson on October 31st.In addition to...

Using personal symbols to interpret dreams

October 14, 2015

Uncategorized

art by Grace Ng DungInterpreting dreams can be tricky business.Dream dictionaries offer great insight, but they aren't the only ways to interpret the often strange symbols that come late at night.Interpreting dreams is only part "dream" dictionary. The other part is compiling the multiple meanings of the image or symbol throughout a variety of different sources. Just because something came to you in a dream, doesn't mean that the image is unique to the dreamworld. In other words, water symbolizes emotions. It doesn't matter if you dreamt it, crave it, or are drawn to it. In each case it the symbolism is the same. Certain animals represent certain qualities—again, whether dreamt, envisioned during a journey,...

Flowers of Fall–Harvesting strength for body, heart and soul

October 14, 2015

Energy, Health, Lifestyle

As my all-time favorite season, spring seemed to hold the most award winning blooms. Fall is ordained by the leaves, spring is for the flowers. Not until I became an herbalist did I find a true appreciation for autumn flowers. Now my yard is full of goldenrod, queen ann's lace, evening primrose and flowering artemisia—plants I never gave much notice before. Each of these plants have their blessings and beauty in both the medicine cabinet as well as the garden. They are bright and cheery, and these attributes are mirrored in their emotional and physical benefits, perhaps to strengthen us for the winter ahead.Evening primrose She is known on the shelves for women's hormonal support. Evening primrose oil comes in coveted capsules, particularly for women going through...

Flowers–spirit medicine for the body and heart

October 12, 2015

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Evening Primrose by Danielle Rose Flowers are more than just beautiful to look at. They are powerful medicine for both the body and spirit. This week we discussed several flowers and how they can benefit healing on many levels--from alleviating the winter blahs, to dissolving life-long trauma. In Flowers of Fall--Harvesting strength for body, heart and soul Danielle Rose writes, "[Autumn flowers] are bright and cheery, and these attributes are mirrored in their emotional and physical benefits, perhaps to strengthen us for the winter ahead." While on a family vacation less than a year after her mother's passing, Charla Dury also recognized the spiritual power of flowers in Wild Flowers are God's Make-up. "I smiled a sad smile, but with hope in my eyes because of the flowers," Charla said. ...

herbs

Flowers: Spirit medicine for body and heart

October 12, 2015

Uncategorized

Flowers are more than just beautiful reproductive parts of a plant. They are powerful medicine for both the body and spirit. This week we discussed several flowers and how they can benefit healing on many levels--from alleviating the winter blahs, to dissolving life-long trauma.In Flowers of Fall--Harvesting strength for body, heart and soul Danielle Rose writes, "[Autumn flowers] are bright and cheery, and these attributes are mirrored in their emotional and physical benefits, perhaps to strengthen us for the winter ahead."While on a family vacation less than a year after her mother's passing, Charla Dury also recognized the spiritual power of flowers in Wild Flowers are God's Make-up. "I smiled a sad smile, but with hope in my eyes because of the flowers," Charla said. "The...

Spiritual trauma and Star of Bethlehem: A case study

October 9, 2015

Uncategorized

Dr. Lisa M. AvilaLisa M. Avila is a chiropractor, kinesiologist and herbalist in private practice in New York City, where she custom blends care of the body, chemistry and mind/spirit for balanc of the human condition. I met with a 34 year old woman who had since her earliest memory what she described as an “unrealistic fear of kidnapping and death.” She reported no background of trauma of this or a similar nature having ever happened to her in her life. This fear manifested in her having anxiety when walking outside after dark, when being around strangers and what she felt was an overprotective reaction to her children playing outside. These fears of kidnapping and death were...

trauma

Amaryllis: Bring pride, beauty and success into your home all winter long

October 8, 2015

Uncategorized

Images from www.gardennewsbreak.com The plant hippeastrum, commonly known as amaryllis, is a a member of the lily or Liliacea family. Robin Rose Bennett, herbalist and author of The Gift of Healing Herbs said that although amaryllis are not edible, the liliacea family contains many edible and medicinal plants such as garlic and chives. Tulips are also part of this family. Amaryllis are often sold as gifts around the holidays as they provide vibrant color indoors during long winter months.The beauty of these bulbs is that they are fairly easy to grow, and within 5-10 weeks after planting (depending on growing conditions and variety), horticulturist Christian Curless of Colorblends, a third generation wholesale bulb merchant, says they produce multiple flowers on two to three towering stalks...

Flowers of Fall–Harvesting strength for body, heart and soul

October 6, 2015

Uncategorized

As my all-time favorite season, spring seemed to hold the most award winning blooms. Fall is ordained by the leaves, spring is for the flowers.Not until I became an herbalist did I find a true appreciation for autumn flowers. Now my yard is full of goldenrod, queen ann's lace, evening primrose and flowering artemisia—plants I never gave much notice before. making evening primrose flower essenceEach of these plants have their blessings and beauty in both the medicine cabinet as well as the garden. They are bright and cheery, and these attributes are mirrored in their emotional and physical benefits, perhaps to strengthen us for the winter ahead.Evening primroseEvening Primrose in Watercolor by D. RoseShe is known on the shelves for women's hormonal support. Evening primrose...

herbalism

In a Nutshell: Shamanism

October 6, 2015

Uncategorized

Last week on Mind Key the Blog we explored shamanism and how elements of this ancient tradition can help you discover your path to healing and balance. "When I think of a shaman, the first image that comes to my head is an old, Native American man, grizzled and peaceful, sitting cross-legged next to a fire," our editor Charla Dury said in Shamanism for DummiesIn Nuances of Shamanism, member Vera Remes explains, "That power comes from a 'whole' soul and the protection of compassionate spirits and power animals, which create a spiritual force field around us."Meanwhile, Tara Ann goes bold and reveals the benefits of sharing your sacred spirit animal in The Spirit Deer."I may not agree with the suggestion of...

shamanism smudging

A novel is never a one-person project

September 28, 2015

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Cover design for "Chimera"Finishing a novel is easily the biggest accomplishment of my life. Immediately I had to change my bio, as for many years it had read: "Danielle has begun dozens of novels, but has yet to finish one.""Chimera" is about to be fully realized as I head to Vermont with a better than one-in-six chance to win a traditional publishing contract. I am so blessed and honored for this opportunity.I am so proud not only of myself, but of all the collaborators that helped me finish this. I could not have done it without Charla Dury, Tamara Rokicki and especially Rebecca Godina, who has been in it since the beginning! They were all patient with me as I gave them large chunks of...

Discovering Celtic Inspired Art

September 27, 2015

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This weekend I attended The Celtic Heritage Festival in Bethlehem, PA. Besides the amazing array of kilts, celtic music, and sports, I was stunned by the quality vendors whose wares were for sale at this show.The beauty of walking through tents and tents of hand crafted items is that each booth brings you into a different space of being. Whether it's smelling hand carved wooden toys and sculptures, watching the light bounce off hand tooled copper designs, or discovering an amazing new art techniques… each new space brings with it a sense of awe, wonder and amazement. Even better is the opportunity to meet the artist and talk about their work. They're always so willing to share their techniques, their inspiration, and their story. If...

inspiration

Mind Key Novel is now “Chimera”

September 25, 2015

Uncategorized

Only a couple days left before I head to Vermont and pitch my novel to Curbside Publishing, agent Marilyn Atlas, and publicist Meryl Moss. It's been a wild ride these past few months. Mere weeks after re-launching Mind Key and the membership program, I discovered that I was a contestant in this amazing contest. While setting up Mind Key membership, building a blog, publishing an anthology and organizing a festival, I had to finish writing a book that was only half done, make major edits, and then polish it by mid-July. Whew!While I have been working fervently to come up with a final title (check!), finish the novel cover (check!), drafting notes and and a powerpoint for my marketing plan (so behind), re-writing my inside...

How Mind Key began

July 21, 2015

Career

I began Mind Key the Novel as a writer exploring the illuminated spaces in my mind. It began after a focusing session where I gave substance and vision to the persistent lump in my throat….That's when things began to change. I always knew I had the ability to manifest my reality through my art, but this novel allowed me to do more than just create, it allowed me to see the world around me more clearly. My guides and the faeries in my life began revealing themselves through the words on the page. They encouraged me to take chances, be daring and follow my dreams.And so I did.Arwork my Michelle FarenciWhat I never expected was the overwhelming response this endeavor would cultivate. People began rallying...

The Teacher-Student Connection: Standing on each other’s shoulders

June 26, 2015

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Carol Douglas ~ Petal DollTeaching is source of creative influx for sculptor and jewelry maker, Carol Douglas. She began her career as a teacher and has since moved into sculpting for herself and others. Now, after many years creating on her own, she has returned full circle to teach metal clay and polymer clay workshops to students of all expertise—from the amateur to the professional. The rewards of passing on knowledge come back tenfold, Carol says. In addition, sometimes a student takes a lesson and does something so creative as a result, that she finds herself inspired to go further next time. “It’s a synergy,” Carol said. “I start on your shoulders, then you can start on my shoulders, and it goes on and creates a...

In a Nutshell: The Mind Key Community at large

June 22, 2015

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Saturday was Mind Key's very first Festival, and despite the rain it was a fabulous way to ring in the summer. A lot of programs were cancelled due to the downpour and overall resulting mayhem. I know a lot of people didn't turn out because the weather was just miserable...

members

Midsummer Festival TODAY

June 20, 2015

Uncategorized

Don’t forget to join us TODAY for the Mind Key Midsummer Festival in Ringwood. The weather looks like it will be beautiful, and we’re gearing up for a day full of music, events, and lots of fun and inspiration.CLICK HERE for a full listing of vendors, activities and a schedule of the day’s events. This family-friendly event is also a great opportunity to get some physical healing, learn about membership and view our beautiful hardcover book: The Mind Key Project: An Anthology for the very first time.We will have live music, an open mic, and round out the day with a bonfire by the lake. There will be awesome give-aways and gift certificates every hour. Need a last minute gift for Dad? Pamela Dzbenski will...

The Mind Key Midsummer Festival is Tomorrow, Saturday June 20th

June 19, 2015

Health

The Mind Key Midsummer Festival is an opportunity for the Community at large to meet vendors and educators whose goal is to help you find healing and passion. At Mind Key, we believe that when you are on a path that leaves you fulfilled, inspired, and always striving for the next best thing, then health and happiness follow. We’ve planned a day of events with this belief in mind. Self discovery through dream interpretation, creative activity, and different health modalities are only a few of the ways we’re sharing our path with you. Musicians are encouraged to bring their instruments and play at our open mic. Poets and writers can read their work between demonstrations throughout the day. Children will have an opportunity to explore...

music poetry The Mind Key Anthology

The Mind Key Community: Meet Joani

June 17, 2015

Uncategorized

Joani O'DriscollAs a massage therapist, Joan O’Driscoll is trained in sports medicine and is oncology massage certified. Clients looking for healing and relief from cancer treatment seek out her gentle touch, and those looking to compliment their sports and fitness regime recognize her talent for finding trouble spots and treating them accordingly.In addition to her training and talents as a massage healer, Joan is also undergoing schooling to become a naturopathic doctor.Diana Gibson says, "Joani O'Driscoll has helped me to recover from strenuous physical activity. Because of her massages I am able to recover faster and improve my athletic performance. She is highly knowledgeable about the human body and has the unique ability to make her client feel euphoria and complete...

members

Sweet Sweet Wonderland: Meet Dina

June 15, 2015

Uncategorized

Sweet Sweet Wonderland is a family owned specialty bakery in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. They offer a seasonal selection of baked goods from their signature cupcakes to their brownies, cookies, cake pops, cakes, pies and more… all as delectable to the palate as they are to the eye.Founder and lead baker, culinary artist Dina Gilmartin first realized that she had a need to bake while taking a Home Economics class in High School. Not only was she at the top of her class, but she also received a award for outstanding ability in the culinary arts. She was going to school for early childhood education, but her work was so exceptional that they allowed her to accept this monetary prize that was generally awarded...

members

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Author: Danielle Rose

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