Connection, Purpose and Communication

Connection, Purpose and Communication

by | Energetics, Life Reflections

When the mind wanders, strange things can happen. At least, that’s what happens to me! Take for instance the combination of a TED talk on addictions, a 1977 experiment by an SFU psychology professor and energy medicine explanations on human communication.  How can these possibly be connected?  Strangely, there is a way!

TED talks are available to anyone with Internet access.  They offer thought-provoking presentations by incredibly bright people, meant to help us think “outside the box”.  And a June 2015 presentation by Johann Hari did just that for me.  His discussion started with how we traditionally define, view and treat “addictions” in our society. He outlined what most of us have come to believe to be true: it is a biochemical process that robs the person of their own will and drive to be free and healthy. There are many factors involved, but ultimately, it is this bio-chemical issue at the core. Then he asked, “What if we are wrong about all this?  What if there is another explanation?”  This is where the experiments by Dr. Bruce Alexander from Simon Fraser University come in.

Most addiction lab research in the early years focused on a reward/punishment dynamic.  Rats were offered a choice of water laced with drugs or plain water.  Over time, rats consistently chose the drug-laced water, often to the point of overdosing. This “proved” that if given a choice, the rat chose to be drugged.  But Dr. Bruce Alexander chose another way of looking at this.  These early experiments had a rat in a cage with only two choices:  plain or drugged water.  The rat was usually alone with nothing else in the cage to do and no other rat for companionship. Perhaps the choice of being drugged was a way of coping with the environment it was in. So in 1977, Dr. Alexander and his team created the “Rat Park”.  It was a large enclosure, filled with lots of things for rats to play with, to create shelters and nests with, had lots of great food and many other rats to hang out with.  Basically, it was a Rat Paradise!  It also offered the two choices of water: one plain and one with drugs.

What they saw next surprised them.  The rats rarely, if ever, drank the drug-laced water.  They were too busy having fun at play, exploring their environment, creating nests, snuggling and raising young ones that they didn’t want to be stoned!  They were busy with their friends, family and community connections.  This happy and connected life reduced the need or desire for the drugs.

As this was being explored in Rat Park, Dr. Peter Cohen in the Netherlands spoke of the human need for “Bonding” as being paramount in the story of addiction. “Bonding” is a fundamental human need. He emphasized that there were certain things needed to reduce or completely eliminate the need for human addictions:

  • Strong bonds and connections with family, other individuals and society in general
  • Healthy relationships throughout one’s life
  • Having a purposeful life – a life with meaning

Both Dr. Cohen and Dr. Alexander came to see addiction as a way of adapting to one’s environment.  Addiction occured because you were not able to bear being present in your life.  Addiction is often thought of as a problem with a drug or alcohol, but it can occur with other things, too. One can be addicted to food, sexual partnering, shopping, internet, pornography, cell phones, drama, pain, gambling, etc.  Actually, anything that can distract or block out our reality because we don’t like our reality or don’t want to live in our reality, could be called addiction.

in his closing comments, Johann Hari stated, ” The opposite of Addiction is not Sobriety;  it is Connection.” 

You would think I’d leave it there, but no!  I had to start thinking about how we are supposed to be more “connected” than ever because of our technology, yet more people report feeling lonely, lost and depressed than ever before.  Watch how people are “connected” to their cellphones, but not with the person next to them.  You can see this enacted in stores, restaurants and waiting rooms everywhere:  everyone is “connecting” on their phone, but no one is really connecting with those humans right next to them. And this is where I began hearing the teachings of Dr. Richard Jelusich in my mind!

Those familiar with the Centre will remember that when we had more space and staff, we used to host Dr. Jelusich regularly for his Flower Readings and Past Life Sessions. One of the many lessons he taught was about how we communicate and connect with each other. He emphasized that ninety-five percent of all communication is energy.  To quote him from his book, I Can Relate,

“… It is neither verbal nor physical, but a linking of consciousness between people.  Most of what is really going on is at a higher level of consciousness, and that constructs the framework of the interactions of the mind/heart at the lower waking levels of consciousness.  Ninety-five percent is not a static number;  it’s meant to imply that most of what is going on with us and between us in on a much higher, more elevated level of our Selves.”  p.vii

So to forge a meaningful connection with others, we must communicate using a higher level of consciousness.  If this is required, then what becomes of our connection with others if our main communication is through a phone screen?  Can a text or email truly connect with the higher Self of others?  If ninety-five percent of communication is energy, what type of energy are we experiencing with our communication technology?

And so,  if Connection and Bonding, Healthy Relationships and a Purposeful Life are the ways of reducing or eliminating addiction, are we communicating and connecting effectively as individuals and a society so that this can happen? 

This is how my mind wanders – and wonders!

Aroma Genera Revisited

Aroma Genera Revisited

by | Aromatics, Psycho-Spiritual

It’s been awhile since we reviewed the fundamentals of Aroma-Genera Therapy.  This aromatherapy treatment modality was developed and introduced in the 1990’s by Valerie Ann Worwood, a British aromatherapist.  Her 1995 book, The Fragrant Mind: Aromatherapy for Personality, Mind, Mood and Emotion helped introduce, explain and outline some aspects of the Aroma-Genera typologies and treatments to the masses.  Although the number of practicing Registered Aroma-Genera Practitioners is quite small in North America, the work is still as potent now as it was in the 90’s.

So what is Aroma-Genera?  It is a system that uses personality types and corresponding essential oils to access physiological or psychological events which may impede physical healing, emotional well-being and life in general.  These events often hold factors that have restricted a person’s advancement and true personality.  By exposing imposed or adopted personality traits, these can then be dealt with.

How does Aroma-Genera work?  It works through olfaction (sense of smell) and memory by using the Set of Nine aroma personality types in a particular way.  These specifically blended essential oils help access thoughts, feelings, memories, sensations and motivations which come to be through the Limbic System of the brain.  No two people will have the same reactions with the same oils, because no two people have exactly the same life experiences in the exactly same setting, with the same circumstances, thoughts, emotions and people.  The aromatic keys that open up and illuminate for one person may do absolutely nothing for another. But something will!  Something always does!

Why would we do Aroma-Genera for ourselves?  The answer is simple and yet no so simple.  It helps a person become free and become who they truly are;  who they are truly meant to be.  The work helps a person acknowledge their worth and importance which allows for expansion and growth.  The states of abundance, general and impoverished help describe each Genera;  our goal is to be in our Abundant State for our happiness and health to flourish.

There are 9 Personality Types in Aroma-Genera with a corresponding essential oil blend for each type. The Personality Types are named after the part of the plant from which each oil in the blend is derived.  For instance:  the Fruitie Personality Type has an essential oil blend consisting exclusively of fruit peel oils.  Each Personality Type has positive and negative qualities, attitudes and behaviours which combine to uplift the Genera Type into an Abundant state or lower it into an Impoverished state.  By using the Personality Type blends, a person can discover what is needed for Balance and Abundance to be theirs.

The 9 Personality Types are grouped into three Triads.  Each Triad has its own set of qualities and characteristics, which are expressed through the individual Personality Types in slightly different ways.

Group One:  The Motional Motivators
These are the personality types that use Thought instinctively. When emotional, they become reactive/action oriented;  “Act before I Feel”
Core emotion for this triad is Anger.  Their core wish is for Autonomy.
Health issues are generally found in the cardiovascular, mucous membranes, lymphatics, and skeletal system
Aroma Genera Types include:  Resinie, Woodie and Rootie

Group Two:  The Emotional Motivators
These are the personality types that use Feelings instinctively.  when emotional, they become expressive/dramatic;  “Feel before I Act”
Core emotion for this triad is Guilt.  Their core wish is for Attention.
Health issues are generally found in the digestive system, throat, reproductive system and endocrine system
Aroma Genera Types include:  Floral, Herbie and Seedie

Group Three:  The Observational Motivators
These are the personality types that use Action instinctively.  When emotional, they use consideration;  “Think before I Act or Feel”.
Core emotion for this triad is Fear.  Their core wish is for Security.
Health issues are generally found in the nervous system, urinary system, ocular eye and respiratory system
Aroma Genera Types include:  Spicie, Fruitie and Leafie

There is still more to learn about Aroma Genera. The full extent of Aroma Genera can only be truly understood by experiencing it.  It is through experiencing the Nine Personality Oils that you have the opportunity to discover the aromatic keys to life’s abundance and balance that are just for you.  Truly for you

Related Article(s)
Emotional Release with Aroma-Genera

Quick Fix Meditation

Quick Fix Meditation

by | Energetics, Psycho-Spiritual

Articles abound regarding the health benefits of taking time to include meditation in our daily care. The health benefits listed include things like greater clarity of thinking, deeper relaxation, better quality sleep, increased productivity, greater creativity, more energy etc.  Most people acknowledge that spending time every day in quiet introspection and relaxation is a great idea.  The question is “How”?  How do we find the time?  How do we prepare ourselves?  How do we do it?  How?

Trying to establish a meditation routine is similar to establishing any other routine. It takes commitment, time and patience with oneself.  It needs to be something that you believe is benefiting you.  And it should be something you look forward to doing.  But many people find they cannot commit the time or they find they cannot slow their minds down enough to concentrate on meditating. Where is the benefit?

Some people start their practice, but later on, let other things get in the way of routinely meditating. When people don’t follow through on a promise or commitment they made to themselves, their “inner critic” cranks up the volume and the tendency is to get angry with themselves.  No sense beating yourself up over this issue- this is the complete opposite of what you are trying to achieve by meditating!

Enter the One Minute ~ Most Days ~ Meditation Practice as described by Dan Harris of ABC’s  Nightline and weekend Good Morning America. Dan has also written a book entitled,  Meditation for Fidgity Skeptics; a  book based upon his own experiences with meditating!  By aiming to meditate most days, rather than every day, the chances of better consistency exist because your “inner critic” will not get on you if you miss a day or two.  You can more easily pick up where you left off, because guilt, shame or annoyance are not beating you up.  Asking for only one minute a day to meditate is less daunting than asking people for more time out of a busy day. What often happens is that after one minute, people realize that they are “doing it” and enjoying it, so they continue a bit longer.  With this shift in believing that one “has to do it” to more of  “likes to do it”,  meditation becomes something that really can become part of one’s self-care routine.

There are three other suggestions Dan Harris makes to help people stand strong on their commitment to daily meditation.  These are:

  • Think strategically about your schedule and what works for your personality – is there a better time in your day that would work best for you?  If so, set that out as your meditation time.  If your schedule is unpredictable, set your time in association with an activity you already do every day (eg. brush teeth, park car, feed your pet) or just tell yourself you’ll enjoy the “adventure” of a new time to meditate each day
  • Make yourself accountable – telling someone about your daily meditation practice (especially if you live with others) or joining a group that routinely meets to meditate helps set up positive peer pressure.  You may find that being around like-minded people makes it easier for you to practice on your own time
  • Focus on the benefits – when we think about how meditation helps us, we are more likely to continue with the practice.  What makes it pleasurable to us and what we notice as positive effects in our daily lives helps us to stay the course.

So what can you do in a minute?  Become comfortable, close your eyes, breathe slowly, count your breaths, use colours or symbolic imagery, bring forth a happy thought or memory, remember a song or poem.  And smile!

If you can dream, you can meditate!  If you can breathe, you can meditate!  If you can count, you can meditate!  If you can be still for just one minute, you can meditate!  Go ahead – try it!

Relative Articles:
Time to Meditate
Meditation with Movement

Setting the Course

Setting the Course

by | Energetics, Life Reflections

Every new year has the promise of a new beginning.  With attention paid to our inner compass, we can determine which course to take for our highest good.  It might not be what others would choose, but then again, they have their own courses to create.  So the course we embark upon begins with an internal journey first.  Find that inner compass and discover what is at our heart and core.  What brings us Joy?  Purpose?  Connection?  Gratitude?  Answers to these will help us gain a clearer picture of what and where we need to focus this year.

Whenever I look for inspiration or suggestions, I call upon the various oracle cards I’ve collected over the years.  Reflecting upon their artwork and messages has always helped to gain greater clarity and peace.  Here is a sampling of various oracle cards to give you an idea of how they might help you, too.

From Collette Baron-Reid, we find:

The Map Maker of Destiny – it’s a sign that you’re being given an opportunity to transform Fate into Destiny.  At birth, each human is given a unique map with myriad paths that intersect with one another. Your Map of Destiny shows all the places you’re meant to visit, places where you will be challenged to evolve into the highest aspects of the Self. … Fate is transformed into Destiny according to how you respond to your circumstances. Now is one of those times. …

The High Lady of Love and Compassion – she brings you a deep and meaningful message:  she reminds you that only Love is real.  It is the sole unconditional and true power behind all means of manifesting out of the unseen into the material. Love’s greatest creative power is ignited by the conscious action of compassion. Generosity of the heart, reverence, respect and empathy for all living things bring you profound power to live a life of happiness and contentment. Love, compassion and kindness to all must be your impulse behind your thoughts, feelings and actions when your intention is to create a prosperous and abundant life.  Unconditional Love will be returned ten-fold

The Well Watcher – he signals the need to go within to contemplate the true source of power in the world – which is that of the Divine. You’re being called to the Well and this unseen power will be there and will be yours to align with. Use prayer and affirmations to connect … You will know the way forward by the still, small voice within.

The Swan Queen –  she asks that you look at your reflection in the events of your life. She gives you the ability to see the beauty that has transformed your life from ignorance to wisdom. She lets you know that now is the time to go within and seek the answer in your own intuition.  Don’t look outside yourself for answers now;  the true power lies reflected in the still waters within you. Now is the moment to meditate and ask for a vision. … This is also a reminder to allow time to transform ideas into reality.  Nothing happens overnight.

From James von Praagh, the following:

Purpose – I know what I am here to do.  You’ve chosen to reincarnate for one major goal:  to express love in all that you do.  The obstacles of this physical dimension can distract you from this goal, and it’s easy to lose your way.  Life on Earth is full of obligations that require  your conscious attention, but that doesn’t mean you can’t infuse all of your decisions with caring and compassion. Your purpose in life is not your career;  rather your career is guided by your purpose.  What activities speak to your soul?  What brings you joy? That is the direction your soul is calling you toward to best convey your own unique expression of love and make a contribution to the world. … Listen to your intuition.  It is your connection to Spirit and the voice of your soul.

Perseverance – I know that I can do whatever I set my mind to.  As a soul, you are on a mission in this physical dimension.  You are the only one who knows the correct path to take. Your intuition – your connection to Spirit – is your compass.  You have the power to stay the course, and you are stronger and more determined than you might first think.  In order to experience many successes in life, you must mature and realize the strength within yourself and the quality of courage. … Now is the time to make the proper changes and take risks and do things you never thought you could before. Your soul must learn to become aware of its “inner strength”.  Live the joyfullnes your soul yearns for and engage in activities you have always wanted to try but were afraid you’d fail at.  … You have the strength and fortitude to be capable of greatness

Consider oracle card decks as guidance tools – not absolute predictions- – and you will be using them with the intention for which they were designed.  Set your course for 2019 for the highest good – always

Did you know ……

  • The Chinese Lunar New Year signifies a new beginning and a chance for a fresh start.
    –  To prepare for Lunar New Year, it is traditional for people to clean their house, pay off debts and gather with family and friends over a lavish meal with foods steeped in symbolism.
    –  In Chinese tradition, Red is the colour representing happiness and life;  Gold is the colour representing prosperity.
  • Nian gao is a traditional rice cake eaten at Lunar New Year celebrations;  it signifies advancement and growth.
Antidote to Bullying

Antidote to Bullying

by | Life Reflections, Psycho-Spiritual

The Universe sends us messages in creative ways – if we are open and listening. This happened recently as I witnessed the ways in which people around our community coped with the recent winter storms and power outages and as I watched a commercial during the World Juniors Hockey Tournament television coverage. Different views, same subject!

What I witnessed at home was, for the most part, people helping people. Watching most folks rise to the challenge of no power, limited resources and heat and making “creative” meals was inspiring.  However, a couple of instances where tempers flared, blame was projected onto others who had no influence on the amount and variety of supplies in their stores, and irritation rose because of having to wait for things had me stunned.  Didn’t these demanding people realize that the circumstances were out of anyone’s control?  Could they not be grateful for what was saved and offered under these difficult circumstances?  Apparently not.  It was easier to spew anger and insults instead of offering help and support. Breaking others down, instead of helping them up.

Then, as I watched some of the World Juniors hockey coverage, a very powerful commercial came on the screen.  An NHL player named Jordan Eberle spoke of how bullying towards him as a young boy almost made him quit hockey forever.  The advert goes on to speak of how bullying used to be face to face, so the one doing the bullying could be identified and confronted.  Now, bullies can hide behind their screens and spew all sorts of insults and injury without being found out.  Now, there is no responsibility or accountability for their comments or damage to their victims.  Jordan’s last comment struck a cord within me.  He said (and I’m paraphrasing here) “Instead of pushing people down, we need to support others and build people up.”  Right on, Jordan!  And then, my reflections began.

Reflecting upon the concept of bullying, I tried to figure out what would be the opposite action and thinking to it. If the bully is using insults and injury to another person’s self-esteem and self-worth, what might counteract these? If the bully is using these tactics because they, themselves, feel less than or unworthy, then what might counteract these thoughts or feelings?  The first thought I had was, “Use Kindness” in all interactions.  The next thought was, “Be Respectful”. And finally, I decided that the third aspect was, “Ensure Healthy Personal Boundaries”.

Maybe I’m a dreamer, but perhaps if everyone tried a little Kindness, the idea of inflicting insults and injury on others would reduce.  There are some people who think that Kindness is for sissies. However, there is an old saying, “Never mistake gentleness for weakness.”  It takes great strength to show tenderness.  Here is the shocker:  kindness must start with how you are with yourself. If you are not able to be kind to yourself, how can you expect others to show kindness towards you?  So what would kindness to yourself look like?  For some, it is being less critical and more patient. Others may look at balancing work and play so they are more healthful and productive.  And some may need to say “No” more often, to the demands of others in order to stay true to themselves. Kindness starts with Number One!

In a similar fashion, being Respectful needs to be shown towards self and others. When one is respectful of self, one will not allow mistreatment from others.  And when a person is being respectful of others, it is an acknowledgement of the other person’s worth; not monetarily, but as a human being.  The qualities of self-esteem and self-worth are heavily influenced by the amount of respect one has for one’s self.  When we examine the dynamics of addiction, abuse and victimization, there is always a component of low self-esteem and low self-worth to consider.  If there was more self-respect and kindness towards self, these difficult situations would have a hard time establishing in a person’s life.

Which brings us to the final point:  healthy personal boundaries.  Those of you who know me, have heard me speak of this ad nauseum!  These boundaries are designed to keep us safe and secure.  These boundaries are set in the physical, emotional, psychological and energetic fields. Because of healthy personal boundaries, we allow that which is positive,  encouraging and supportive to us to come closer in our world, while that which is negative, discouraging, and not for our highest good is kept away.  These boundaries must be started early in life;  those with no clear personal boundaries are susceptible to the whims, beliefs and bullying of others.  Without protection of self, it is hard to believe and behave as someone who has personal power, rights, abilities, feelings and opinions that matter.  Here is where Being Respectful ties into the picture. It is also where Kindness comes to rest. If our personal boundaries are healthy, then we have a greater chance of staying strong and healthy within ourselves and our world.

The antidote to bullying starts early in life.  When a child feels safe and secure, has a strong sense of self, can be kind and respectful to themselves and others, bullying has no place.  It is not an option.  As adults, we are charged with giving children a strong foundation upon which to launch their life paths.  Are we modeling the behaviours that will help them cope with the world?  Are we showing them how to be kind, respectful and develop healthy personal boundaries?  If we don’t have these ourselves, then we best get on with it!  The children are watching, listening and learning from us.  Let’s show them the best we can be – so they can do so for themselves.