AUGUST 2017 READING

LEGACY OF THE DIVINE

2 OF COINS:  This month you will be making some kind of a decision that will require you to balance the pros and cons of different options as well as use your intuition.  Any time it is necessary to decide something—whether it is important or just a day-to-day situation-- we should remember to use both our left and right brains so that we come to a choice that in our hearts we feel is right for us at the time.  And then once you have decided, the best thing to do is to just go with the flow and stop worrying about the outcome. Don’t take it too seriously and be flexible, because it is better to just see what happens, without expecting a particular result.

THE WORLD:  In the past few months, or year, perhaps you have had a lot of ups and downs, challenges, problems, or disappointments, but also successes and rewards.  The message from this card is to let us know that a lot of the hardships you have endured are paying off, and now is the time to reap the benefits of what you have learned from the difficult times.  This is a time to be exuberant and excited, for the bounty of your hard-earned lessons is now within your grasp.  So be prepared to have fun, enjoy yourself, and see a happy time entering your life where good things are coming to you.

9 OF COINS:  Going along with the energy of the World card is the 9 of Coins.  You will be feeling satisfied and fulfilled with your life right now.  The beautiful energy of success is with you, so enjoy all that it has to offer. You have worked hard, done the work, faced the challenges, and now is the time to relax a bit and enjoy what you have created.  You have shown discipline and self-control, relying on yourself to make things happen.  Give yourself a pat on the back for all that you have accomplished, and revel in the joy that you deserve.

QUEEN OF WANDS:  The Queen of Wands reminds you that you are very self–confident and assured during this month, so keep moving forward, letting nothing get in your way.  You are action-oriented and energetic, not willing to just rest on your laurels.  Yes, you can enjoy your successes, but this does not mean that you can just sit back and wait for things to happen. Keep the momentum moving forward, and feel the warm glow of confidence and optimism that exudes from you.  You know what you want, and you will go after it with gusto and passion.  You are on a roll, and now is the time to keep moving ahead.

TRENDS FOR THE MONTH:  Wow, what a wonderful month August is appearing to be!  You will have decisions to make, but you will figure them out with ease.  You are at the end of a wonderful cycle of learning, discovery, challenges, and successes.  Now is the time to have fun and give thanks for all that you have accomplished.  Looking back on what has transpired over the past few months, you may be amazed to see how far you have come.  It may have been a hard road at times, but you have persevered and are now in a really good space.  Enjoy the self-confidence and determination that have gotten you this far, and continue to shine like the star that you are. You deserve all the good things coming this month, because you have earned them. 

JULY 2017 READING and

10 WAYS TO RAISE YOUR VIBRATION

Legacy of the Divine Tarot

KNIGHT OF WANDS:  If you have been feeling stagnant or not able to move forward, this month should bring some relief from that.  The Knight of Wands represents a double-action energy, because there is the Knight who can’t sit still, coupled with the Wands energy that is constantly on the move.   So look at new opportunities that come your way, or create your own. You will have the initiative and drive to propel yourself ahead in some way.  Perhaps it is only a small step at first, but as you get into the “swing of things” you will find yourself becoming more and more action-oriented.

THE EMPRESS:  July also brings the Divine Feminine energy into play. Recognize your nurturing, kind and loving side while using your creativity to bring forward and birth ideas that perhaps have been lying dormant for some time.  The fertility of ideas and a desire to create something, combined with the Knight of Wands, will make for a wonderful month of abundance in some area of your life.  You will have more than enough, and may feel a pull to be outdoors more.  A connection to the Earth can help bring vitality and love of life to you now.

THE MAGICIAN: Get ready to bring into the physical world that which you would like to create.  It is as if you have a magic wand and have the ability to use the Law of Attraction to full advantage, if you so choose. Once again, the cards are encouraging you to recognize your own power and bring forth something that in the past may have been out of reach, or even what you perceived as impossible.  Anything can happen this month, and the Magician encourages you to believe in yourself, set the intention, and take action to bring into your life something that you have been thinking about but have not put forth much effort to bring about. You are strong and powerful, so get started now!

JUSTICE:  Start off the month by realizing the importance of being fair to yourself. This will help bring things more into balance.  For example, if you have been putting the needs of others before yourself, then take time to do something special for yourself to acknowledge that you are just as important as those you care for.  It is wonderful to help others, but the energy of this card encourages you to think also of you and what you want. If you are seeking more harmony in your life, this is a good place to start. This may also be a sign that now is the time to accept responsibility for past actions, being kind to yourself when remembering any mistakes made.  Do what is right in all situations, acting on ethical principles.

TRENDS FOR THE MONTH:  There will be a lot of positive action in store during the month, for what an energetic, action-oriented month it has the potential to be! The interesting thing is that three of the four cards are Major Arcana, which means that their energy will be with you a bit longer, and they are more significant for you during the month.  Spirit is telling you to pay attention to these messages, for they are important for you to know.  Therefore, take heed that July can be a month of wonderful creativity with a steady flow of ideas. Recognize your power to create the kind of world you would like to surround yourself with, realizing the importance of thinking and taking care of yourself.  Key ideas are kindness and support, loving yourself, seeing the possibility of miracles and magic, and focusing on balance.  What a wonderful month it can be, so look forward to an action-packed time where things really start to get off the ground.

10 WAYS TO RAISE YOUR VIBRATION

Retrieved from www.loveorabove.com

Vibration is our own unique personal energy frequency.  It is the result of the accumulation of all our thoughts, beliefs, and emotions in our internal world; as well as experiences and interactions in our external world. 

Our energy field (and vibration) can be in or out of balance.  If it is out of balance, dis-ease can result. To raise our vibration, we focus on thoughts, words, and deeds of joy and love.  Fear and anger lower our vibration.  A higher vibration gives us a feeling of well-being; we feel lighter and more in tune with ourselves and our external world.

Like attracts like (the Law of Attraction), so if we want to have positive experiences, we need to keep our vibration at a high level.  We can surround ourselves by people who match our higher vibrational level, and these people and opportunities are drawn to us because of this.

So what can we do to raise our vibration? Here are 10 suggestions:

Physically

1.  Diet, Hydration, Sleep:  What we eat is extremely important for our health.  Organic foods have a naturally higher vibration than sugary or fried foods, or those containing preservatives.  Drink clean purified or filtered water before you start feeling thirsty, and adhere to a sleep routine that keeps you in balance.

2.  Movement:  When we move our bodies, we are moving our energy and feel better overall.  Find what works for you, such as dance, yoga, tai chi, Qigong, swimming, walking, jogging, hiking.

3.  “Feel Good” Activities:  Anything that brings us joy and love automatically raises our vibration, so engage in what makes you feel good—laughing, singing, gardening, getting a massage, spending time with friends, playing with pets, expressing gratitude, forgiving those who have hurt you.

Emotionally

4.  Be Authentic:  Being honest with ourselves and expressing emotions rather than suppressing them goes a long way to increasing our vibration.

5.  Self-Love:  Love and nurture yourself by doing what raises your energy level rather than depleting it, such as associating only with people who match our vibration; watching, listening, and paying attention to information from the media that is uplifting rather than fear-inducing.

Mentally

6.  Change the Stories We Tell:  If we retell and focus on experiences that involve a lot of judging or blaming, we will stay in a lower vibration.  We should tell stories that help our growth and evolution.

7.  Switch to Positive Thoughts:  If you think of something negative, rather than dwelling on it change it to a more positive thought by thinking of something you are grateful for.

Spiritually

8.  Meditation:  Meditation can refer to not only sitting in a quiet place and focusing on your breath; it can also include repetitive activities (such as doing a household chore), doing something you really enjoy, appreciating a beautiful nature scene such as a sunset, or watching waves on the ocean.

9.  Energy Healing:  Reiki, sound therapy, crystal therapy, aromatherapy, acupuncture, and herbal remedies all help to open energy channels and transmute lower frequencies into higher vibrations.

10. Grounding; Aura and Chakra Cleansing:  An easy way to do this is to visualize a white light entering your crown and cleansing everything as it travels down your body.  Anything negative will be released into the ground.

Source

http://galacticconnection.com/10-ways-to-raise-our-vibration/?mc_cid=e2f3458558&mc_eid=4b5b3989c8

JUNE 2017 READING & HIGHLIGHTS OF GREGG BRADEN VIDEO ON DEEP TRUTHS

Legacy of the Divine Tarot

KING OF WANDS:  The King energy is strong this month, which means that you will be very action-oriented, so this is a good time to start something new or finish that which you have been working on.  You are very creative and innovative, so take advantage of this opportunity to use your enthusiasm and confidence to strike out in a new direction if you have felt stifled.  You are bold and willing to take a risk, unconcerned with what others think.  Use this energy to full advantage, not only to accomplish what you need but also to have the courage of your convictions.

PAGE OF COINS: You can receive a double dose of self-confidence this month when bringing plans to fruition and being practical with all matters.  It is time to stop daydreaming and “get the show on the road”. Take a realistic approach, using if necessary what is at hand instead of planning something exotic that may take more time and effort.  Now is the time to work smarter, not harder.  Allow more prosperity into your life by growing and expanding, drawing on your King of Wands energy to take action.

10 OF SWORDS: Things have been tough, and there have been many challenges to grapple with.  However, the good news is that whatever problems and difficulties you have experienced are coming to an end.  So instead of worrying and fretting about what is going on, take a deep breath and realize that you are coming to the end of a cycle and things will get better.  Just be patient, hang in there, and try not to stay in a negative space.  An upturn is just around the corner, so release any anxiety and look forward to the start of a new day.

3 OF CUPS: June will be a wonderful month for you to feel exuberant and enthusiastic, where you are in high spirits, recognizing all the good things that are happening in your life.  It is also a time for feeling and appreciating a sense of community with those you have a common bond of teamwork and cooperation.  This sense of camaraderie is especially important now, since we are living in a world that is chaotic at times, unsettled and unsure.  You can overcome these feelings by trusting those in your community and getting together with like-minded people.  A network of support is available to you, so take time to be grateful for the bond that you feel for others.  Celebrations can spontaneously occur as you connect at a deeper level with those you interact with.

TRENDS FOR THE MONTH: June should be a great month for a number of reasons.  You will experience the double action-packed energy of the King of Wands and the Page of Coins. You will be feeling self-confident, creative, and bold.  You will have opportunities to move ahead with plans and goals instead of just wishing things were better. You can create whatever you put your mind to, and now is the time.  Don’t worry too much about what has happened in the past and the problems you have had to deal with, for those will go by the wayside pretty soon.  Take what lessons you learned from these challenges and then move on.  Once you do that, you can enjoy the sense of group bonding and cooperation you feel for those who live in your community, for your friends and acquaintances.  Good things are happening, and you will want to rejoice and be happy for all the possibilities you see.

Highlights of Gregg Braden Video on Deep Truths 

Retrieved from www.holistic-alternative-practitioners.com

An excellent interview filmed in Romania (but conducted in English) shows Gregg Braden discussing various scientific topics that can be confusing, yet he does a wonderful job of putting the concepts into clear words.

This interview can be accessed by clicking on this link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iprj7PQIqPk

In this 54-minute interview, Braden’s clear and easy-to-understand explanations help to clarify ideas which sometimes can seem out of reach for non-science people.

Here is a sample of what is covered in the interview:

  

   Some scientific models that have been around for a number of years are obsolete and need to be updated, based on new research.  Examples:  Darwin’s evolution theory and “survival of the fittest” (which promotes competition rather than cooperation, yet studies are showing that cooperation is more productive than competition); Einstein’s belief that we are not connected based on entanglement theory (which shows that two things once together but become separate are still connected, even at a distance).

It It is important to look at evidence directly from the earth rather than gathering information and then making a conclusion based on human perception.  Example: Geology is a science that studies actual materials taken directly from the earth, such as ice cores showing that civilizations are not only 5,000 years old (as we are taught), but are actually over 10,000 years old.

   False assumptions of science:

 We are powerless to heal our bodies.  Truth:  Scientific research has shown that cells that determine our health respond to chemistry released by the brain, which is triggered from feelings in the human heart. The heart sends signals to the brain, causing certain chemicals to be released into the body.

We are separate from everything and everyone in the world.  Truth:  The entanglement theory in physics has been demonstrated in a study showing that one proton had the same experience as an identical one even though they were 14 miles apart.

Our history is only 5,000 years old.  Truth:  Evidence discovered in Turkey found artifacts from a civilization that existed 11,300-11,500 years ago.

Life is random.  Truth:  Nature is cyclical.

Competition is the way to solve problems.  Truth: Nature is based on cooperation.

Our consciousness has no effect on the world around us.  Truth:  A study showed that DNA has a direct effect on atoms of matter. Physicist Max Planck said there is a “matrix of all matter” connected by a field of energy. The conscious intelligent mind is behind all matter, and physicist John Wheeler believed that we interact with matter to create reality.

An excellent discussion explaining the scientific basis for emotions contributing to our health is also included, plus a good explanation of the heart-brain connection.

MAY 2017 READING AND ARTICLE:

  "Some Ways to Live in the Present Moment" 

Legacy of the Divine Tarot

2 OF CUPS:  May is a beautiful month when many flowers are in bloom and spring is in full swing. The uplifting that you feel this month can carry over into your special relationships.  This can include not only romantic partnerships but also business associates.  Feelings of support, commitment, camaraderie, and fulfillment can all be expressed with confidence.  Revel in all that is good for those you feel close to, and enjoy at this time the special bond that you have with them.

4 OF COINS:  Because there may be uncertainty tied to the economic status as well as the overall situation of the country and the world, it will be important for you to manage your finances and other resources wisely.  Do not be carried away with buying things that you don’t really need; instead, commit to saving what you can and being frugal when warranted.  It is also a time for not being overly generous with the amount of information you disclose to others, especially that which is of a personal nature.  There is no need to confide in even close friends about every single detail of your life, so use discernment when talking and sharing with others.

ACE OF WANDS:  The energy of this month can spur you on to opening a new chapter in your life, whether it is a new project, a new job, a different hobby, or just some kind of change that you have been wanting to make.  Feel the fire of motivation within you as you push forward into unknown realms that before may have been too scary.  The Ace of Wands energy will help you move past previous barriers that held you back.  Now is the time to step out of your comfort zone and light your fire of new beginnings.  Anything is possible, so stop procrastinating about something you have been thinking and dreaming of doing.  This is the month to get started!

7 OF WANDS:  Closely tied to the Ace of Wands is this card, which carries the energy of taking a risk and stepping forth with power, courage, and confidence.  It is true that it is not always good to go headlong into a new situation without thinking things through, so use your intuition to decide if the time is right for you to take a chance.  If not, then that is ok.  Continue to plan, perhaps laying the foundation for what is to follow.  You will know when the time is right to step out, so use this time well to plan what you will do when you feel prepared.

TRENDS FOR THE MONTH: There are some unique energies circulating this month, so trust in yourself and your own inner guidance.  A positive note has to do with close relationships.  You will find more joy and contentment when dealing with romantic and/or business partners.  Perhaps you will experience a new level of closeness or a new desire to do whatever it takes to feel more comfortable.  Because of economic uncertainty, be careful with your money and other resources.  Be cautious, conserve what can be saved for a later date, and remember that discernment when divulging information to others is important.  The Wands energy will help you start on something new, especially in an area where you have been wanting to do something different but were holding back.  Just be sure that you have figured out the best way to proceed, looking at the big picture to ensure you are ready to launch into a new area.  Change can be difficult and involve risks, but you will know when you are ready.

"Some Ways to Live in the Present Moment"

We are told that we would be happier if we could live in the present, not worrying about the past or the future.  For many, though, this is easier said than done.  Most of us by habit do not focus on what we are doing in the moment; instead, we are thinking of what has already happened or being anxious or fearful about what is to come.

As one author notes:

“An easy way to break this habit of being a victim of time is to identify time for what it is. Time is a human concept. The watch on your wrist and the clock on the wall mean nothing to Mother Nature. To her, life is one evolving moment – a perpetual cycle of interdependent impermanence. Time is a metric we use as a reference point for organizing our lives and documenting history. It doesn’t actually exist. Really, it doesn’t. Ask a scientist.” (https://www.pocketmindfulness.com/live-in-the-present-moment/ of the present moment)

And Buddha said:  “The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly.”

So how do we do this? 

Here are a few tips that may be helpful:

> Stop worrying about the future.  Become more aware of what you are thinking and when your mind jumps ahead, just bring your thoughts back to what you are doing right now. Anyway, the majority of things we worry about never even happen.

> Do one thing at a time.  This will keep you focused on what you are doing at the moment.

> Do less.  Instead of rushing around from one task to another, give yourself a breather in between things you need to do.  Let go of what is not important rather than keeping yourself constantly occupied with “busyness”.

>  Eat slowly and savor your food.  This will let you not only enjoy your food more, but you will eat less and better digest what you are eating.

>  Live slowly and savor your life.  Pay attention to what is going on around you.  Awaken your senses, especially when outdoors, and enjoy the result.

> Make cleaning and cooking become a meditation.  Rather than being a drudgery, you can make any chore be completed more easily by being mindful of what you are doing.  Put your full focus on what you are doing, concentrate, and do it slowly and completely.

> Practice mindfulness.  This is the key—practice awareness in all actions that you do.  Keep your mind focused on whatever you are doing right now.  For after all, your mind is the only thing that is keeping you from living in the present.

Sources
http://www.rd.com/health/wellness/mindfulness-tips
https://www.pocketmindfulness.com/live-in-the-present-moment/ of the present moment.
http://paidtoexist.com/how-to-live-fully-in-the-present/

 

 

Tarot Reading for April 2017

                                                                        AND

 

Blog #67: What Is Gut Health and Why Is It Important?

 

Legacy of the Divine Tarot

 

 

10 OF CUPS:  After the past tumultuous months, April will be a time of enjoying the company of family, friends, and loved ones.  It is a month of new beginnings and the start of spring, so see this as a symbol of more growth and love.  Feel refreshed and rejuvenated by being around like-minded people, those you really care about, and those who offer support and nurturing.  Let yourself be engulfed in the radiance of unconditional love with your pets too, for they are amazing in what they can offer us. 

TEMPERANCE:  Balance will be important this month, so make sure that you feel like you are getting enough rest, are enjoying yourself and having fun, and are staying on track with your work or projects.  It will also be good to be patient as you go about your day, making sure that you realize that reaching a significant goal or accomplishing those big things you plan to do are not done in one day.  Live in the present, but pay attention to what you want your end results to be.  Energy flows where attention goes, so do focus on the goals you are working on and continue to do so. 

3 OF CUPS:  April includes some holidays, so have fun and celebrate all the good things that you are experiencing in your life.  Be grateful for the gifts you are receiving. And try spreading joy and happiness when you are surrounded by others.  It is a wonderful feeling to know that you are exuding positive energy, which is contagious, and more people will be drawn to you.   There is always something to celebrate—it does not have to be a big deal or a big thing.  It can be the simple things, the small miracles that you recognize around you—a beautiful sunset, the blooming of flowers, the singing of birds. 

QUEEN OF CUPS:  The Queen of Cups reminds us of the importance of being kind, considerate, supportive, and generous towards others.  Because of the challenges and turmoil that have been going on, it would be wonderful for you to support and encourage those who may be experiencing difficulties or anxieties.  If you stay in a loving and caring space, the difference you could make in the lives of others can be significant.  Also trust your feelings and intuition more, because this month it may be especially important for you to be heart-centered and loving.  The kindness you show to even just one person who maybe has not received such blessings recently can have huge ramifications for him/her, so don’t discount how much you can encourage and support others.

TRENDS FOR THE MONTH:  April will bring signs of new growth, perhaps new ways of thinking, and even new opportunities to express and enjoy yourself.  Feel the comfort of being around those you love, and bask in these warm feelings.  Remember to stay balanced by giving attention to all areas of your life, rather than working too hard, for example.  Well-rounded experiences will bring more serenity and joy.  Try not to be impatient, wanting results immediately when the reality is that it may take time for things to come to fruition that you have been working on.  Instant gratification is not necessarily rewarding, for it does not always lead to long-lasting results.  This month is also a time to “let your hair down” and just have some fun.  Try doing something new and different, spending more time with loved ones you may have neglected in the past, and taking time for yourself that will help restore your equilibrium.  And finally, help others as much as you can by spreading good vibrations, helping when you can, and listening to your heart more than your head. Amazing things can happen when you stay heart-centered.

 

Blog #67:  What Is Gut Health and Why Is It Important?

 

 

Over 2,000 years ago, Hippocrates said, “All disease begins in the gut.”  We are finding out more and more how true this is.

Intestinal health is important because overall health is based on what we eat--what is digested in the body.  Amazingly, an unhealthy gut can lead to a number of diseases, such as diabetes and obesity, but also others such as rheumatoid arthritis, autism spectrum disorder, depression, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

That’s why it makes sense for us to analyze our diet and look at the foods we are putting into our bodies. It could be that by changing our diet we can change our gut health, and health in general.

In our gut live trillions of micro-organisms; in fact, there are ten times more bacteria in our gut than there are cells in the entire body.  Scientists call these bacteria “flora”, and they help with normal gastrointestinal function, provide protection from infection, regulate metabolism, and make up more than 75% of our immune system.  No wonder we should be looking at what we eat to make ourselves healthier!

What are some things that can hurt the gut flora from doing its job properly?  Here are just a few:

Ø  Antibiotics and other medications like birth control

Ø  Diets that have a lot of refined carbohydrates, sugar, and processed foods

Ø  Toxins that are included in wheat and industrial seed oils

Ø  Chronic stress

Ø  Chronic infections

An important point about antibiotics is that they cause a significant and rapid loss of diversity in the gut flora as well as a shift in its composition.  The diversity is not recovered without some type of intervention.

The gut actually uses bacteria to produce energy from food.  This helpful bacteria is called probiotics.  If you have problems such as gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain and cramping, autoimmune disease (such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes), or neuromuscular diseases, perhaps it is time to take a look at exactly what you are eating.

Here are some things you can do to promote your gut health:

Ø  Take a quality probiotic.

Ø  Avoid overuse of antibiotics. 

Ø  Include fermented foods in your diet (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha)

Ø  Eat less refined sugar.

Ø  Lower your stress level.  (The brain-gut connection shows that stress can be linked to digestive health, because stress causes the brain to send messages to your gut through chemicals. These chemicals affect the functioning of the digestive process.)

Sources

https://chriskresser.com/9-steps-to-perfect-health-5-heal-your-gut/ 

http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/5-tips-to-restore-and-maintain-your-gut-health/

 

 

Tarot Reading for March 2017

                                                        AND

Blog #66: The Benefits of an Alkaline Body

 

 

 

Legacy of the Divine Tarot

 

 

 

3 OF WANDS:  This month it will behoove you to be calm as you look around and see what has transpired in the world and the changes that have been taking place.  Patience is called for as we ride the crest of the wave, unsure where it will take us.  Stay positive and upbeat, visualizing a future that is in the best interests of us all.  Don’t be so much in a hurry to see more change, or more differences in how you feel about what is happening.  We are all “waiting for our ship to come in”, and in the meantime the best thing we can do is go about our business, keeping a level head and a positive attitude.

5 OF CUPS: Things may be happening that make you uncomfortable, distressed, sad, upset, or anxious. The best thing to do is to go ahead and feel these emotions, allowing yourself to really experience them viscerally, and then just let them go. Longing for what is not in our reality will not necessarily make it so; however, we can visualize a better world where events are unfolding that bring the promise of hope and betterment for all of humanity. Look around and think of all the things you can be grateful for.  It is better to focus on these rather than what you perceive to be wrong with the world.  We are all connected, so the longer we hold on to negative feelings the more we might influence those around us with negativity. Showing gratitude can go a long way towards improving your outer world.

THE SUN:  There will be many bright spots occurring this month that will make us happy and bring smiles to our faces.  When these moments appear, drink in all that they have to offer by way of joy, contentment, satisfaction, fulfillment, rewards, and success.  Everything is not doom and gloom this month, as you will see when you start recognizing that good things are indeed happening.  Let the light of these good moments and events continue to shine for you, so that in moments of feeling down you can brighten your mood by remembering the sunshine times.

8 OF SWORDS:  Despite how hard you try, you may still feel confined, out of control, hindered, or stuck. That is ok, because you can do something about it. You do not have to wallow in self-pity or sadness; you still have free will, and you have the ability to get yourself out of whatever boundaries you have surrounded yourself with.  You have the wherewithal to break free, as the Sun energy will be present the entire month.  Your prison is of your own making, so don’t let it engulf you to the point where you go around all month feeling sorry for yourself. Now is the time to break free.  You can do it.

TRENDS FOR THE MONTH:  March promises to be a month with mixed blessings, as was February.  On one hand, it will be important to exercise patience, remembering that all good things come according to divine timing, not ours.  Don’t get caught up in negative feelings that bring you down, for you may also be affecting those around you.  On the other hand, remember that the Sun energy is also with us all month, so look for bright spots where you at first see none, look for light where things seem dark, and look for happiness and joy where sadness lurks. You have the power to control your own thoughts, so prepare now to let this be a fantastic month where you are in control of what happens to you.  Decide right now that March will be a most phenomenal month that holds many opportunities and possibilities.

 

Blog #66:  The Benefits of an Alkaline Body

 

Retrieved from www.kriscarr.com

 

The importance of having an alkaline body is coming more to the public’s awareness as research continues to show its benefits.

So what does it mean if your body is alkaline? It means that the pH (potential of hydrogen), which is measured on a 0-14 scale, is more alkaline than acid in your body’s fluids and tissues, .  The more acid there is in your body, the lower the pH; the more alkaline, the higher it is.  A pH of 7.4 is considered optimal for the human body, which is slightly alkaline.

One explanation of what alkaline means is as follows:

“Water is the most abundant compound in the human body, comprising 70% of the body. The body has an acid-alkaline (or acid-base) ratio called the pH which is a balance between positively charged ions (acid-forming) and negatively charged ions (alkaline-forming.) The body continually strives to balance pH.  When this balance is compromised many problems can occur.” (http://hellodollface.com/2013/08/whats-does-alkaline-mean-and-why-should-we-care/)

The way we keep our bodies balanced and in an alkaline state depends a lot on our diet.  If we recognize what foods are alkaline and which are acidic, we can eat more of those that are alkaline.

Why is it important for us to have an alkaline body?  Because too much acid can cause health issues, such as fatigue, a skin breakout, a slight case of irritable bowel syndrome, or a runny nose.  These are just minor, but they could be the first signs that your body is too acidic and needs to be more in balance and closer to an alkaline state.

Too much acid in your body can promote the growth of bad bacteria, yeast, and fungi.  Because the amount of good bacteria in your body is out of balance, you could be more prone to getting infections.

A major benefit of keeping your body alkaline is that you could reduce the chances of getting cancer. When the body has too much acid, oxygen levels are lowered and cellular metabolism ceases.  This could lead to the growth of cancer cells.

Some other benefits of an alkaline body are:  deeper, more restful sleep; more physical energy; fewer colds, headaches or flu; good digestion; and increased mental alertness.

Some foods and drinks that promote an alkaline body are green juice, lemon juice (just mix some warm water with lemon juice first thing in the morning), leafy greens, cucumbers, melons, and chia seeds.  Also good are avocados, figs, almonds, pumpkin seeds, green tea, and tomatoes.

Foods that create more acid in the body are processed sugar, dairy, conventional meat, and coffee.  Some others that form acid in the body are peanut butter, cranberries, corn oil, potatoes, and butter.

It is not necessary to eat only an alkaline diet, but it is important to be aware of what foods are acidic and try to stay away from them as much as possible.

Sources

http://hellodollface.com/2013/08/whats-does-alkaline-mean-and-why-should-we-care/

http://www.care2.com/greenliving/10-benefits-of-a-properly-alkalized-body.html

http://www.livestrong.com/article/444199-what-are-the-benefits-of-alkaline-in-the-body/

http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/understanding-the-alkaline-diet-and-its-benefits/

https://draxe.com/alkaline-diet/

http://www.mensfitness.com/nutrition/what-to-eat/diet-qa-what-it-means-be-alkaline

 

 

Tarot Reading for February 2017

 

                                                                          AND

 

Blog #65: Is There a Difference Between Emotions and Feelings?

 

 

Legacy of the Divine Tarot

 

 

 

WHEEL OF FORTUNE:  Everything goes in cycles, and this month brings continued hope for a new and better year than 2016.  We are reaching the pinnacle of this cycle as we come into the blessings of this month. Look for the good in things that affect you, even if in your mind you wonder what good is to be found in a particular issue or situation? It may be a lesson to be learned, a change that is a message for you to express gratitude, or just a sign that things are improving. Do your best to stay positive, for we are indeed in the upswing of a new cycle.

3 OF SWORDS: There may be bouts of sadness, disappointment, doubt and anxiety as events continue to unfold in the world. It is normal to feel upset about the chaos that is still present, but remember that nothing stays the same, and changes are in the air. So whatever negative feelings you may be experiencing can be dispelled by refusing to let yourself be bombarded by sad or depressing news, or to be adamant about not staying in a sad or depressed state because of what is going on in the world.  Remember that “this too shall pass”, and then get on with your life.

8 OF SWORDS:  Feelings of hesitancy and doubt may cause you to feel paralyzed when having to make a decision or take action. The best thing to do if this happens is to take a step back from the situation and look at it as objectively as possible. Use your logical analytical brain to come up with pros and cons for various alternatives, or trust your intuitive right brain. An even better approach is to combine the two to reach a decision that may be the most balanced and well-rounded. You have the ability to think through any challenge or issue, so exert your power and take a stand.

KING OF SWORDS: It is time to move forward, to get into the King vibration and start feeling self-confident, decisive, and powerful.  You will feel an inner-knowing that you are on the right track and there is nothing to fear. The King is not hesitant or wishy-washy, nor would he question his decisions once they have been made. He is a strong and powerful leader in whom others have full confidence. You can adopt his energy as your own by recognizing your powers and abilities, not allowing yourself to stay in the 8 of Swords or 3 of Swords energy. It is time to leave the past behind and look forward to what lies ahead.

TRENDS FOR THE MONTH: February brings mixed blessings, but ones that in the long run are good and valuable. Things will start out hopeful, optimistic, and upbeat as we enjoy the newness in this second month of the year, and relish the differences we can see that are positive. However, these feelings are tempered by some challenging events that can try and test us, but we have the ability to get beyond all this, as long as we recognize what we are in control of and what is not within our control. If any negative feelings cause you to feel as if you are caught in a web of doubt, suspicion or fear, then use the King of Swords energy to eliminate negative attitudes by seeking the truth, knowing you can make decisions that affect you, and thus stay in control of your own life. The month may seem topsy-turvy at times, but the power is there to help you persevere, feeling grounded and sure-footed.

 

 

Blog #65: Is There a Difference Between Emotions and Feelings?

 

We often assume that emotions and feelings are the same, but there is a difference that is important to recognize, because understanding this could have an impact on your health (especially realizing the harm that harboring toxic emotions can cause).

As described by shaman author Alberto Villoldo, “Emotions are ancient survival programs encoded in the limbic brain, and when toxic emotions dominate your thinking and nervous system, you put yourself in danger.”  (p. 94)

Another author describes an emotion as a “physical response to change that is hardwired and universal.” (http://emotionaldetective.typepad.com/emotional-detective/2012/04/emotions-vs-feelings.html)  In other words, an emotion is a biological response that is part of our physiological make-up.

Feelings, on the other hand, are “of the moment and transitory.  You might have an occasional feeling of anger toward your children or spouse, a spontaneous flash that sends a surge of chemicals through your body and brain, but the feeling passes and soon and equanimity returns.” (Villoldo, p. 95)

Another viewpoint is that feelings are a “mental associations and reactions to an emotion that are personal, acquired through experience”. (http://emotionaldetective.typepad.com/emotional-detective/2012/04/emotions-vs-feelings.html)

So two distinctions between emotions and feelings are:

(1)  Emotions originate in the brain and have a biological origin, whereas feelings are mental reactions to our emotions.

(2)  Emotions can remain stuck in our bodies if we let them, whereas feelings are more transitory and are sparked by our emotions.  Feelings can be very different from one person to another, even though the same emotion may have been evoked by the same event.  How we feel about and react to a situation is related to our experiences.  Toxic emotions can remain in the body for hours, days, or even years.

Understanding these basic differences between emotions and feelings can help us better cope with emotions that can be detrimental to our health.  So what do we do if we have negative emotions that are stuck and cause us physical, mental, or emotional pain? We get help to find the root cause of the emotion and release it.

Sources

Villoldo, Alberto.  One Spirit Medicine:  Ancient Ways to Ultimate Wellness.  Hay House, 2015.

(http://emotionaldetective.typepad.com/emotional-detective/2012/04/emotions-vs-feelings.html