Pretzel Poses Not Required: Yoga Yourself into Peace

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” ~Leonardo da Vinci

Perhaps the quote explains Mona Lisa’s mysterious smile. Maybe she adopted her creator’s philosophy and practiced yoga!

Fast forward in time from the Italian Renaissance to a smiling lady at an Italian Beaux Art villa in LA. Her name is Jennifer Herrera. Besides her degrees in law and spiritual psychology, she’s applied her smarts to brand building. (Think Gap, American Eagle Outfitters and Sony Electronics.) “When I was in the prime of my first career and stressed out, I found yoga again,” says Jennifer. “It saved my life.”

A decade later she’s a yoga teacher. In fact, she’s teaching on Tuesday, August 21st at 7:30 pm in the backyard of the aforementioned Beaux Art Villa. (The historic mansion is headquarters to - PAL&G - Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens.)

To clarify, the PAL&G backyard boasts a 3-tiered meditation garden and a Chartres Cathedral inspired labyrinth. (Sometimes called a Moving Meditation.) By day, the labyrinth is carpeted with those contemplating life. On the evening of August 21st, yoga mats will crisscross the labyrinth.

Jennifer says, “Yoga at the labyrinth is a beautiful opportunity to say "YES" to the body, mind and spirit. We will be touching all of those dimensions during our experience. I would also add that all levels are welcome. If you were ever to begin yoga, there's no better place than the sacred ground of Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens.”

My interview with Jennifer about yoga and life follows.

 Q: What forms of yoga do you practice?

JH: I practice and teach a combination of hatha and vinyasa that is also heavily influenced by Iynengar. What this means is that I slowly build my practice from the ground up consciously awakening the body, holding in postures and linking breath to movement. I am not a power yoga teacher. I can enjoy those classes from time to time and I have found that my peace is in the slow build.

Q: What can you guarantee or almost guarantee students will walk away with after Yoga at the Labyrinth?

JH: All willing and open participants will absolutely walk away with an experiential reference of peace within themselves and their bodies.

Q: How often do you practice?

JH: I practice 3-5 times a week and sometimes that is a 20 minute evening restorative practice.

Q: What’s the greatest gift you’ve received from yoga?

Healing the relationship with my body. Through my practice of yoga, learning about and feeling into parts of my body I never had prior, I began to relate to my body as an apprentice. Instead of constantly evaluating it externally, I began to steep in the wonder of its miraculous nature. I am so grateful for this new context, awareness and healing.

Q: Advice for the inflexible or stiff jointed?

JH: Gentleness - with your body and with your mind. The physical practice of yoga is really a distraction to reduce the noise of the mind. Yoga is not about flexibility. That is a misnomer. Actually bodies that are very flexible or hyper-mobile can injure themselves if they don't know how to back off. I begin almost every day feeling a bit stiff and inflexible. Yoga has actually supported me in better listening to my body so I know how to gently wake it up and support blood circulation to the joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles. Whenever possible use props during your practice. A simple blanket or thick towel can make all the difference.

Q: What’s been the greatest challenge in practicing yoga? How do you or did you overcome that?

JH: Growing my patience and learning to quiet the mind. There are metaphorical opportunities arriving all throughout a yoga practice if we are open to them. For example, how we relate to ourselves and the world while on our mat is a reflection of how we relate to ourselves and the world off the mat. Allowing that to be okay rather than a space to judge ourselves is when the practice takes on a whole new level of growth and expansion. Although the practice of yoga can be and feel rather serious, it's so important not to take ourselves too seriously. When we can loosen up and allow for the space our practice deepens. When I have tried to force a posture that my body is rejecting but my mind is attached to "doing," I struggle and get uptight. When I heed my body's communication and back off, I soften and relax. These two paths of relating impact my entire practice and often what occurs after. Over time, I have learned to leave it all on my mat, to use the entire experience to let it all go. It's literally my physical therapy, spiritual practice and self-care all in one. I am never sorry I did yoga.

Q: Who’s been your biggest influence, inspiration in yoga?

JH: My teachers. The first one was a woman I began practicing with around 2008 in Manhattan. Her classes were like mini-workshops. I didn't know that at the time and she has been the single biggest influence on my practice and my teaching approach. She weaved in depth and breadth into every 75 minute class and I found the teacher in me by being her student. They say, “When the student is ready the teacher arrives.” I am so grateful.

Q: Besides, Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens, where is the most exquisite place you’ve done yoga?

JH: In the lush forest of a small town in the south west part of France. Just me and nature. It was Heaven on earth.

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Curious novice or consummate yogi, you are welcome to enjoy Yoga at the Labyrinth at 7:30 pm on Tuesday, November 6 on the heavenly grounds of PAL&G.

Visit http://www.peacelabyrinth.org/events/yitm110618. Wear comfy clothes. And remember your yoga mats! Blankets and large beach towels work, too.

Love and a Silent Retreat is All You Need

Once upon a time, in the sixties, there was a very popular band called the Beatles. Titles like All You Need is Love spun on vinyl records. Centuries before them, a bearded man with the initials, JC said, “Love one another as I have loved you.”

Great advice, right? What happens though when texts, e-mails and phone calls are vying for your attention? When paper and projects are piling up digitally and on your desk? And your family demands you play gracious host to a third cousin once removed? The brain scrambles, Edvard Munch’s The Scream surfaces. “Stop the world I want to get off!”

Well, now you can. Popular meditation teacher, soundscape artist and acclaimed author, Paul Kaye is leading One Day Silent Retreat participants back to the sacred self that breathes and sustains you. Your precious self will thank you. Your husband/wife, colleagues, cat and dog will also appreciate your attending this Saturday, September 8 event.

This autumn day is an opportunity to meet your true self again. Already meditate? Fantastic! You’ll be cradled in a deeper way by the Divine. The serene Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens will reflect your inner beauty.  

Sound too good to be true? Think again. See below for a sampling of the gifts you’ll receive during the retreat. And take home with you long after the silence is gone.

·       Tools for clearing unconscious blocks and tension

·       Moving meditations, the labyrinth

·       Freeing yourself with forgiveness and gratitude

·       Accessing harmony and peace, Japanese tea ceremony style

·       Finding center through a Sound Journey

Even our smart devices need recharging. Take time for you on Saturday, September 8, 2018 at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens. Click here for details.

A Field of Dreamy Gardens

Did you read the exquisite write-up about Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens in The New York Times? The PAL&G piece is by best-selling author, Reif Larsen! (His books are also popular movies.)

Mr. Larsen’s depiction of PAL&G tours’ Guardian Angel is perceptive and accurate. “I was greeted at the villa’s entrance by a kind man named Juan Roberto.”

Through heat waves and cold spells, PAL&G’s bespectacled greeter, Juan Roberto Schulz gazes upon each visitor as if welcoming a long lost cousin. He also answers FAQs with great patience. Mr. Larsen remarks that at the end of his exchange with the PAL&G greeter, “Memories of Interstate 10 bedlam began to evaporate.”

Good thing I was sitting when reading Mr. Larsen’s Finding Yourself in Los Angeles. His masterful portrait of PAL&G is swoon worthy. He describes his labyrinth experience: “As you walk, the city becomes a distant dream, a movie half-remembered.”

Mr. Larsen also mentions shinrin-yoku ( 森林浴 ) – Japanese for forest bathing. He delights in being “serenaded by the gentle babble of small fountains.”  (Be still my heart!!)

Insights about other LA gardens and photos are offered, too. (PAL&G takes top billing.) Scroll down, and you’ll see two people familiar to PAL&G regulars: Anna Sugai and Jeffrey Morgan. An aura of confidence trails the duo walking the labyrinth. Maybe my admiration colors the lens. Anna Sugai is a Brazilian beauty who speaks three languages. Her good looks and smarts are surpassed, however, by her depth. Ask anyone who has seen her co-facilitate a PAL&G evening event. Jeffrey Morgan is an attorney who knows a thing or two about international and integrative law. He’s also quick with a reassuring smile. He serves on the Transcendent Leadership faculty at Peace Theological Seminary.

Mr. Larsen’s Finding Yourself in Los Angeles in The New York Times illuminates the spirit of PAL&G.  It is impressive. The masterful wordsmith’s work strikes my heart with awe for another reason, too. I came to this country from Japan a few decades back. The Guasti Villa stood proudly like a Grande Dame on West Adams as it does today. The mansion, however, was sans labyrinth and gorgeous gardens. It was an isolated island of beauty enjoyed by a few.

Two important men in my life – my beloved teacher and boss – inspired the creation of PAL&G: Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness (MSIA) Founder, John-Roger and MSIA President, Paul Kaye. They are both role models of living from the inside out.

Remember the 1989 film Field of Dreams? An Iowa farmer builds a baseball field at the bidding of his inner guidance.  Trouble ensues. Tears are shed. A happy Hollywood ending prevails.  “If you build it, he will come.”

Voices are tricky business. Is the whisper well-intentioned or rooted in illness? “Check it out,” is a phrase which John-Roger repeated on many an occasion. 

Clearly, John-Roger was listening to a heavenly messenger about a LA labyrinth. A French accented angel, perhaps. Paul remembers the conversation with John-Roger about a labyrinth at 3500 West Adams Boulevard was ignited in Chartres Cathedral.

Maybe Paul’s whispering angel was from the East. MSIA’s President was instrumental in the birth of an Asian accented garden. He had a vision of something “mad, chaotic, and green with lots of water features.”

The French artisan crafted marble labyrinth was consecrated by John-Roger and MSIA Spiritual Director, John Morton in 2001. The following year, Paul’s idea for the garden was realized. A handful of spiritual warriors roamed the Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens (PAL&G) upon its creation in the New Millennium.

Today sold-out tours prevail as peace seekers strengthen Soul practices. Including a New York Times best-selling author.

Do you hear a voice whispering? “Be a PAL&G docent…The visitors will come.”

Check it out. Call Program Director, Carol Jones at (323) 737-4055.

Click the link below to read Reif Larsen’s Finding Yourself in Los Angeles in The New York Times.

Plug Into an Oasis for the Soul

Let’s be real. We’ve all got addictions.  Don’t drink, swear, smoke or touch that white substance called sugar? Congratulations. How long can you go without checking your smart phone? Or binge watching your favorite Netflix show? Most of us need some form of comfort. On planet earth a lot of curve balls and challenges are thrown our way. (If this is not your experience, please send the address of your cave pronto!) 
How cool would it be though to upgrade our addictions to God?  (Higher power, Spirit, you know what I mean.) In the City of Angels, there is a place to plug into the oasis of your Soul. It’s called Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens (PAL&G.)  In the gardens, celestial melodies courtesy of the birds lift the gaze heavenward. Multiple water features sing soothing lullabies.  There’s the ancient labyrinth, too, which is sometimes referred to as a Moving Meditation into the Heart.
Evening events like An Introduction to Meditation: A Deeper Experience led by Dr. Paul Kaye are also a beautiful way to de-stress. Although Paul’s approach is lighthearted, his training is serious. From Lao Tzu to Rumi, from tai chi to yoga and countless other disciplines, Paul has thoroughly researched the subject of healing through meditation and sound. 
Due to numerous requests, PAL&G is now opening its doors, too, for a one day silent retreat entitled Unplug – Relax, Refresh, Recharge. Paul will lead the charge into stillness: “The purpose of the retreat is for you to completely relax, let go of worldly concerns and connect more deeply with who you are and with what breathes and sustains you.”
To ensure the clearest, truest connection, all participants are required to abide by PAL&G’s smoke-free, drug-free environment. If you’d like to attend, please e-mail paulkaye@msia.org with Silent Retreat in the subject line. To uphold the serenity fostered in the retreat, a maximum of 20 participants will be accepted. 

Behind the Scenes at PAL&G: Secrets to Happiness

Best labyrinth is a title bestowed upon Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens (PAL&G) by LA Weekly. According to Los Angeles Magazine, PAL&G is declared to be the Best of LA. Many visitors see the spot as a “spiritual oasis in the city.”

All the accolades are deserved. The labyrinth, the gardens and Italian renaissance villa are magnificent. So are many of the people who live and work at PAL&G.

89-year-old George Scott is an esteemed sous chef at PAL&G. His swoon-worthy salad dressings have stirred up Emmy award nominee Anne Marie Cummings to inquire after the ingredients.  His desserts have knocked many off the diet wagon. Vocal coach, Melinda Browne, says, “George always shows up before the workshops with amazing homemade pastries, revealing he is not only talented on stage but also in the kitchen.”

More than his culinary talents, George seems to have mastered joie de vivre. George’s daughter, Bambi says, “Dad was always giving and loving. He always had and has a smile.”

Scientists say that even faking a smile can reduce stress and increase serenity. Smiling at those around you can also apparently improve the energetic of an environment.

George’s easy smile sometimes makes this writer wonder if he’s strategizing mischief. His baby blues are brightest though when swing dancing or singing Sinatra tunes. “I feel a lot of spirit when I dance the big bands – like Glenn Miller,” says George.

Bambi remembers her father practicing East Coast Swing in the back of his health food store. (He was eating avocado toast before it was the fad!) Looks like he practiced a lot. Experienced dancers agree that George Smith’s lead is smoooooth.  He is an inspiration for those of us who could use more movement and mindful eating. (Just in case you need the reminder; diet and exercise are essential to well-being.)  

Besides swing dancing, George sites family and service as keys to happiness. He is a devoted father of, “3 unbelievable daughters. Each one of them is a Virgo and talented in their own way.”

While in attendance at songbird Bambi’s performance of Almost Like Being in Love, he picked up yet another key to happiness: singing! Kismet stepped in and he won admission into a Melinda Browne workshop. Daughter Wendy says, “When I was a kid, I always thought my dad could do anything he put his attention to. As an adult, I now know it’s true!”

The love George Scott has cultivated in his children extends to colleagues, too. James Burton (whose artistic touch with all things flowers and food is sublime) recalls George’s offer of “a healing song when I returned to the kitchen from my leave of absence.”

The melody of the song is a distinctively lilting George Scott ditty.  However, any light tune will apparently do the trick. “The important thing is the (affirmation of) I am,” says George.

I am grateful for PAL&G’s song-and-dance man. 

George Scott’s Healing Song
Every little cell in my body is healthy.
Every little cell in my body is well.
I’m so glad every little cell in my body is healthy and well.
I’m so glad every little cell in my body is healthy and well.

The Great Dream for Happiness

“I have a dream…We will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope.” ~Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
 

We have video proof that Dr. King gave his famous I Have a Dream speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963. Controversy, however, swirls around the veracity of a quote by President Abraham Lincoln: “Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.”

No argument about the eternal quest for happiness though. Maybe it’s in our DNA. Whether it’s the wish for a hot meal or Aladdin’s Genie with his golden lamp, happiness is a weighty subject. (Sometimes a pricey one. Countless seminars promise happiness in its various forms: How-to-Squeeze Into Your Skinny Jeans, How-to-Make a Million Dollars Before You’re 12!)

The United Nations has given serious thought to happiness. Since 2013, March 20 is decreed to be the International Day of Happiness.  They’ve even complied "10 Keys to Happier Living" and created a clever acronym. The following is yours truly’s take on the “Great Dream.” Love to read your ways to happiness in the comments section.

- G R E A T  D R E A M -

1) GIVING creates a sense of abundance. No money is needed. An authentic smile or compliment to another reminds us that an unending supply of divine love lives inside.

2) RELATING reduces risks of heart failure! According to the researchers at the Action for Happiness, “Not having close personal ties poses the same level of health risk as smoking or obesity.”

Note to Self and You: It takes courage to reach out. Dark cloudy emotions make it harder. Take the chance. Spill the beans to a trustworthy one and get a hug. Let them share their Light.

3) EXERCISING releases endorphins and apparently reduces the perception of pain. No wonder doctors recommend physical activity for those prone to depression.

4) AWARENESS like mindfulness is a marvelous way to come present. It’s also a fab way to truly savor the sweet moments in life. And figure out the crazy times. (Eckhart Tolle wrote a whole book about the Power of Now.)

5) TRYING OUT new activities is a terrific way to keep grey matter from shrinking. Mastering ballet or the Chinese language might be daunting past the age of 5. Still, baby steps of achievement and accomplishment can lead to higher self-esteem and happiness!

6) DIRECTION gives meaning to life. With goals, there’s a reason to get up in the morning.  A few, maybe many follow a true North path. Even if the road swerves for those of us who have the need to redefine happiness; goals let us discover those deeper truths.

7) RESILIENCE is crucial to surviving inevitable losses. Psychologists cite faith and attitude as primary keys for springing back into Life. If circumstances haven’t helped to foster trust in a higher power, I humbly offer the meditation RX.  Start small. Same goes for the attitude. Just notice the tiny things you and others do right.

8) EMOTIONS are excellent for everything when they are positive.  A reservoir of good feelings produces success on all levels. No surprise that the folks at the Action for Happiness want you to focus on shiny, bright, beautiful things…I do too. 

As someone who has suffered the slings and arrows of guilt because ugly thoughts and emotions have surfaced; here are a few tricks: Allow them. Be authentic. The pain needs Love! Write out the nasties on paper and burn them. Imagine how a fairy godmother or angel would counsel the hurt, angry one.

9) ACCEPTANCE can be challenging. It’s soooooo tempting to compare my insides to others’ outside alleged perfection. What helps is remembering that a) I’m on planet Earth aka The Classroom b) The course is designed by a loving Creator.

10) MEANING is given to Life, according to the experts, by believing in something bigger than self. To quote Sesame Street’s beloved Cookie Monster: “Life is not all guessing games. Sometimes we have to care about friends, especially friends who love cookies.”

So what are you going to do today to fulfill your Great Dream? Love to have you join us on March 20th for The Way of Happiness with author, meditation instructor, Paul Kaye and communications expert, Anna Sugai. Click here for more info or visit PeaceLabyrinth.org/events.

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What makes you feel happy? Post a Comment and we'll share on our "What makes me feel happy" board!

The Sound of Heavenly Music - Rx for the Stressed

Paul Kaye, Meditation Instructor and Soundscape Artist.

Hop into a candlelit bubble bath.  
Sooth tension-weary muscles with a massage.
Stroll on the beach.
Gaze up at a night sky sparkling with stars.

All of the above works wonders. And so does meditation. Imagine soaking in sounds of serenity from faraway lands. Visualize an expert guide leading you through the chambers of your heart. Feel yourself shimmering in Light.

This is not fantasy. Paul Kaye’s Sound Bath at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens (PAL&G) embraces methods for de-stressing. You may hear instruments from the Himalayas and Japan echoing through a historic mansion. Riding atop the waves of harmony is the gentle voice of Paul. A teacher of forty years, he guides participants into a deep-dive meditation.

The event is titled "Introduction to Meditation and Sound, A Deeper Experience." However, even long time students of meditation exit the event declaring:

“For the first time in 10 weeks, I felt no pain.”

 “It took me to places that were frankly ineffable.”

“Best meditative experience this decade.  Left with a great sense of serenity, and crystal clarity.”

Falling in love and meditation are similar. Both are highly personal and individual. Yet, we all agree it can be a fabulous experience. Dating for most is about finding "the right one." It takes time. So does discovering the method(s) of meditation that work best for you. Of course (and thank God!), miracles can happen and some immediately experience their soul sing joy. Yet, like all relationships and practices, improvement is always welcome, right?

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Experience an Introduction to Meditation and Sound, A Deeper Experience evening at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens.

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Keys to Long-Lasting Relationships

Cupid’s bows gleam golden and the scent of roses infuses the air. Yes, that month of red hearts and rich chocolates is around the corner. The debut of romance is dazzling. A stream of serotonin rushing through the system may be better than any roller coaster.

Yet, there could be the inevitable day when the ride dips; reality hits. Yikes! Is Romeo giving Juliet the cold shoulder? Juliet’s smile has melted. Sigh. There is an empowering solution.

Do you know the answer? 

• Yes--be that wonderful loving one to yourself! (That doesn’t mean dive into a pint of ice cream!)
• When tuning into your sunny self, life reflects back brighter scenarios. And more perfect partners.
• In fact, everything and everyone appears to be divinely ordained.

Even with a few loving tricks up your sleeve, if you’re open to expanding your self-care repertoire, then read on. Paul Kaye, author of Momentum: Letting Love Lead is sharing his tips at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens (PAL&G) on February 6th. Paul is also a popular meditation teacher. The processes he’ll use in Loving Relationships Workshop will actively involve your beautiful spirit and heart. In fact, the only prerequisite is your willingness.

Even if you are not in an intimate relationship, you may discover the love of your life – YOU!

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Loving Relationships Workshop takes place Tuesday, February 6, 7:30pm at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens (3500 West Adams Blvd. LA CA 90018). A Meet & Greet with refreshments follows the workshop.

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Virgil, Veritas (Truth) & 100 Ways to Health & Well-Being

“Health is the Greatest Wealth”~ Virgil

Philosopher, poet and pal of Roman emperors is the poster child of wealth. His dad was a cattle farmer. (Think Texas in Rome.) He went to law school; switched majors and published popular epic poetry. Perhaps you’ve heard of the Aeneid. (It’s considered one of the masterpieces of Western civilization…which this writer didn’t know until researching the prolific poet.) Oh, yes, and Virgil hobnobbed with the elites of the 40s and 50s. (BC.) He liked parties. In fact, one of his works is called Copa (The Barmaid.) Hmmm. The point is the fellow knew a thing or two about living well. Virgil was sincere when he said, “Health is the greatest wealth.”

So, it makes sense that admired author and meditation teacher, Paul Kaye is sharing his 100 Ways to Health & Well-Being at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens. (Not 500,000 Ways to Strike It Rich in 5 Minutes!) Looks like there are no loopholes to: “Seek ye the Kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto to you.” (Matthew 6:33, KJV) Or as my Great-Uncle George used to say, “There ain’t no free lunch.”

The great teachers espouse the concept that when we are healthy and wise, there’s a greater chance for the wealth to slip in. Bravo, you may be ahead of the game and arguing that Tiffany rings and Mercedes are not the end-all, be-all. True enough. Seeing a baby smile is indeed a treasure. (But I still cherish the few times I’ve flown first class!) Whatever your goals or definitions of success, without health or a sense of good feeling, life isn’t fun. Fortunately, Paul Kaye lives in the New Millennium and we are able to receive his tips first-hand and in person at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens. Paul promises that attendees can “expect to go away with at least one additional key to bring greater health and well-being into their lives.”

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For more info and tickets, visit PeaceLabyrinth.org/Events or click here. Or take a chance and show up in person on Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at 3500 West Adams Blvd., LA, CA 90018 for the 7:30 p.m. event.

New Year's Resolution "Spiritual Spa Morning" - Enjoy Pics!

We were "packed with peeps" - enjoy the pics!

Over 200 beautiful people gathered January 6 to start the new year deepening their commitments, intentions, and devotion. We enjoyed a workshop, sacred labyrinth walk - followed by a lavish buffet brunch - making the day like a "spiritual spa."

Enjoy the slideshow images.  

Sneak Peek into 100 Ways to Health & Well-Being Workshop with Paul Kaye

Author, educator, and meditation expert, Paul Kaye, has created a workshop called 100 Ways to Health & Well-Being. I had the pleasure of interviewing Paul.

I found he not only walks his talk, he makes it dance with the enthusiasm he infuses into his projects. His research while co-authoring books such as Living the Spiritual Principles of Health and Well-Being, and What’s It Like Being You? with New York Times bestselling author, John-Roger, DSS, has given Paul abundant material for this workshop.

Some of Paul’s Health and Well-Being Tips

Best Way to Feel Good?

1.  MOVEMENT

When I questioned Paul about his favorite ways to feel good, he promptly responds, “Movement!”  He ducks into a closet. He returns brandishing a wooden sword à la Mr. Miyagi from the Karate Kid. He asks, “Have you ever seen a tai chi sword?” (Did you know there was such a thing? Neither did I.) 

He goes on to explain, “Everybody can make time for movement.” Paul puts the sword down. “Not hours, but 2 minutes here and there.” Demonstrating he says, “Like a plié!”

2.  SLEEP

“If I don’t get eight hours, my performance suffers mentally, physically, and emotionally. It shows in my behavior.”

3.  SPIRITUAL EXERCISES

Another key is spiritual exercises, which is an active form of meditation. (Paul facilitates a popular Introduction to Meditation and Sound evening.)

Favorite Health Foods?

Paul’s favorite health food? “Sprouted flax seeds.” Hmm. Intimidation creeps into my consciousness.

Do You Allow Any Cheat Days?

“Ice cream,” says Paul very matter-of-factly. “It’s important to keep the basic (inner child) happy and not be in deprivation.”

"Foods don’t work the same for every person"

While on the subject of food, I mention the superhero blueberry. Many call the cute purple berry a super food. Some studies state the "happy hormone" serotonin increases and inflammatory issues decrease by eating the fruit. “But (the consumption of) blueberries doesn’t work for everybody,” says Paul. “Some say it also causes joint problems.”

So in this vast arena of health, which expert has Paul’s attention? “Gary Taubes.”  Apparently the Harvard, Stanford and Columbia University educated writer “took the lid off fats, grains and sugars.”

What About Sugar?

How does he counsel someone who likes sugar? Paul doesn’t mince words: “Stay off refined sugar because it puts on weight. We have an obesity epidemic in this country." Hmm. I don’t know if I’ll be giving up Oreos soon. I have hope though.

What Can We Expect to Receive from the Workshop?

“Expect to go away with at least one key to bring greater health and well-being into your life.”

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100 Ways to Health and Well-Being will take place Tuesday, January 23, 7:30pm PT. 

Resources:

http://www.peacelabyrinth.org/resources-blog/2017/10/18/the-sound-of-heavenly-music-rx-for-the-stressed-zq6cq 

Sneak Peek into An Evening of Abundance

An evening of abundance is about getting together with others to explore how to create greater abundance in our lives.

"You will receive in direct proportion to your clarity of vision, your definiteness of purpose, the steadiness of your faith, and the depth of your gratitude." John-Roger, DSS

It's about taking an opportunity to explore "opening to the blessings of abundance, clarifying our visions for the New Year, and giving thanks for our lives exactly as they are." 

We asked Marizita and Rinaldo Porcile, ministers and business owners, to come volunteer and lead the evening for us. They have combined a life of service with a life of taking care of themselves and their family--and they just naturally created abundance in the process.

A sneak peek into some Abundance Keys:

1. Giving
2. Gratitude
3. Receiving graciously

Join us and learn more!   

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Tuesday, January 16, An Evening of Abundance, 7:30pm  |  Complimentary, with donations welcome. 

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5 Tried & True Ways to Sweeten the Holidays

“To me every hour of the light and dark is a miracle.” ~Walt Whitman

Shadow fingers stretch across the sidewalk. Christmas carols blare as a car blasts down the road. Cinnamon and ginger, the star spices of winter, waft from the kitchen. The holidays must be here.

Sparkly diamond happiness is supposed to be the sentiment du jour. Yet when malls are jam-packed and competition for parking spaces mounts…Well, rekindling the childhood exuberance of the season can be daunting.

5 Tried & True Ways to Sweeten the Holidays:

1.     Give, Give, Give…to Yourself.
I know. This is a season for giving. Reduced sleep and increased sugar though may turn you into Mr. Grinch. Altruism is awesome but not at the expense of yourself.

2.     Take the Easy Path
Seriously. Your child will survive without homemade cupcakes. Swap time in the kitchen for conversations…even if it is via text!

3.     Be Sneaky
Slip extra time onto the parking meter. Tip your server with an extra dollar or two. Surreptitiously do something super nice for someone.

4.     Headspace Vacay
When the monkeys are chattering up a storm, turn up the meditation music. Even Western MDs agree that moments of Zen tune out stressors.

5.     Tell the Truth
“The Truth Shall Set Ye Free” Not a Bible person? Twelve steppers know that honesty is the key to healing. And the first law of Spirit is acceptance…which leads to cooperation…which hopefully leads to a happier you during the holidays!

Light the Menorah. Set the star atop the Christmas tree. Let your authentic joyful self shine.

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A Chat with Soul Dance Creator, Alisha Das

Alisha Das is a spiritual counselor, former DJ, and holds a doctorate in Spiritual Science. Sixteen years ago, she created Soul Dance and has been facilitating these events twice monthly, volunteering her time as a gift. We recently interviewed Alisha. Here are some highlights from our chat.


PALG: What gave you the idea for Soul Dance? 
AD: During a trip to Israel and Egypt, I asked my spiritual teacher, John-Roger, “How can I learn to have more conscious experiences while meditating?” His answer: “Do sit-ups while chanting your spiritual tone.” I did this for about two hours and moved into bliss. I now had a technique of using outer movement to enhance inner movement, which I continued to utilize and explore. I later expanded that practice to other forms of physical movement such as dance.

AD: I had always been terrified to dance in public but on that trip, I found myself spontaneously dancing in temples in Israel and Egypt. At Giza, I began dancing with subtle movements, eventually leaping into the air, though I had never before felt free or comfortable dancing. This came from within; movement straight from my soul.

After this, I found myself wanting to dance with a spiritual focus more. I wanted to dance free-form with others in communion with God. I tried many dance classes and gatherings all over Los Angeles but didn’t find anything close to what I was seeking. Fortunately, your former PALG Administrator asked me to create a dance class for you.

My experience as a former professional DJ and sound volunteer helped me create (and facilitate) Soul Dance. I wanted to play uplifting music in a spiritual environment, but I also wanted fun dance music. (A key to DJing is the art of knowing what music to play to keep the crowd dancing.) I play a wide range of music, from current pop to world music. It just has to be uplifting. I have two kids, teenagers now, who help me keep my musical awareness current.

PALG: How has Soul Dance evolved?
AD: In the beginning, I simply played great music. Then I was led inwardly to guide people to get freer as the music played. I watched people to see what they liked and what seemed to “move” them, both inwardly and outwardly. Later, I added playing short audio meditations, excerpts and soul moments. I tell folks that if they want me to stop talking all they have to do is dance freely and blissfully. I usually talk less as the evening goes on and folks let God take over.
 
I thought, “Now that I’m facilitating Soul Dance, I should learn to dance.” But I really did not like choreographed dance classes, the Spirit was not there for me. I said that to John-Roger before a dance performance. He said that no, in choreographed dance you learn the steps, but the Spirit may want to do different steps. He said you don’t follow the Spirit--you are one with Spirit. You can’t do that in choreographed dance classes the same way. That inspired me so at the beginning of that “performance” I determined I would not move until the Spirit moved me. I stood and stared at the audience until Spirit started moving me. I have no idea what steps I did, but I came off stage to a standing ovation. John-Roger looked at me and said, “Very, very good” That experience was transformational for me and reinforced what I am doing with Soul Dance.  

So my facilitating became helping people discover how to let themselves be danced by Spirit and to use dance as a spiritual exercise to allow Spirit to move them.  

PALG: What makes Soul Dance special or different?
AD: My whole intention is to support people to reach into their True Self and let their Soul guide them and to assist people to be present and spontaneous. For me, it’s about staying in the moment, in the Divine unknowing, trusting Spirit will guide me with the words and music that need to be heard at that time.

Soul Dance quiets the mind, the body, the emotions, and releases deep seated blocks to freedom and awareness. Then bliss and deep peace comes. I love to see people transformed, joyous and free.

PALG: What would you say is the key to get free through dance?
AD: I tell participants, “You’re safe. Just keep moving, don’t think, dance. Allow each move to be discovered by you. Allow each move to be healing." "I am endeavoring to guide you into a moving meditation, into a dance with the Beloved.” 

They start to forget what they look like. I keep the lights low so people feel safer to go within. People realize they are really dancing with God—and discover how they move.

People express more when they feel safe, and they feel safe at Soul Dance. I tell them, “If you just keep moving outwardly, it will move you inwardly.” Sometimes folks say they’re too tired to come dance. John-Roger used to say, “If you want more energy, demand more energy.”  I tell them, just come “call in the Light” (an invocation) with us. Almost invariably, if they dance one dance, they will stay the entire evening.

PALG: What keys have Soul Dance given you that you take into your life?
AD: Leaping into the Divine Unknowing and allowing God to dance me through my life. Getting out of my head. Risking looking stupid. Waiting, not moving until I feel Spirit move me—I use this in my work as a counselor. That we are all one people. One of my favorite Soul Dance memories was watching a really “Goth looking” guy with body piercings and tattoos dancing with a Muslim woman dressed in robes and head piece. Love is the healer. Seeing different types of people dancing in communion with one another is uplifting.

PALG: How do people respond to Soul Dance? 
AD:  At every class I get people sharing with me with tears in their eyes sharing gratefully about their experiences. Some just come to be in the energy and maybe don’t even dance that much but meditate the whole time.
People share with me about their emotional release, mental release, or that physical things start to clear. People tell me about a spiritual attunement they experience, about feelings of intimacy with others. People often spontaneously “puppy pile” on top of one another after class or stay to share with one another.

One women works with terminally ill children. She said Soul Dance keeps her going. With every move, she lets go. Another person told me she came in the deepest, darkest hole, suicidal and by the end of class she was joyous and hopeful.  

Many people share, “I stay in deep peace long after I stop dancing.” After every Soul Dance, people wind up laying on the floor at the end. They go into the Spirit. People want to stay there for quite awhile, the room is still and quiet at the end. 

PALG: What would you like to tell people who haven’t come before?
AD: I play fun, current, dance-able music. Soul Dance gets a range of people anywhere from terrified to dance, to professional dancers. Every class has new people and people from all walks of life. I tell people, “You might come nervous, but you’ll leave in bliss. It’s about dance, but it’s much more about letting God and Spirit move you.

Let Go, and Let God.

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Editor Note: Soul Dance celebrates its final evening Thursday, November 1, 2017 at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens. Soul Dance continues monthly in Santa Monica.

>> Click to register for Soul Dance Santa Monica.

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Fabulous & Free: The Magic of Completion [with Video]

“One of the most useful things I can say to you for living in this world is if you want to have greater health and more energy, move things toward completion.”

— John-Roger, PAL&G Founder

Yes, I’m fabulous! And I feel freeeeee! How often do you catch yourself saying that? Even if affirmations are your strength, I mean, really, who doesn’t want more fabulousness and freedom in their lives? One of the magic keys, according to author and consultant, Martha Ringer is completion. In fact, she’s written a whole book about completing: Complete.Done.Finished. The joy of doing, the freedom when done.

Here at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens (PAL&G) Tuesday, Oct 17, Martha Ringer and Heartfelt Foundation Director, Skyler Patton explored Reclaiming Your Energy – The Magic of Completion. Just in case you missed the event, here are a few gems from the dynamic duo:

Freedom and Completion are a Tight Couple:

• Unburden yourself of tasks that are not in your wheelhouse.
• Cross off crocheting that doily for your elderly aunt. Buy one and call it complete!

Listen Deeply:

• Remember to breathe – consciously. And listen deeply.
• Where do I go next? Seems like a simple question. In reality, many of us go to overwhelm instead of action.

Break Down Your To-Dos into Mini Tasks:

• Instead of doing a dance of dizzy confusion, break down your to-dos into mini tasks.
• Promise yourself (and/or a pal) to do the small action by a certain date and time.
• Focus on the task until done. Just do it!

Keep the agreement. This is soooooo key to freedom, trusting yourself and owning your fabulousness.

Tip - An Easy But Oh, So Revealing Exercise:

1. Write down all the incompletes in your life. Including childhood dreams, bucket list items and doing the laundry.
2. Once you’ve got your mountain of musts and maybes on your mobile or notepad; circle the most important one. Which one calls to you?
3. Well, done! Now identify a mini-step that you can complete right now.
4. Take your mini-step!
5. Next, acknowledge yourself. Celebrate!!!

Key - Acknowledgment and Appreciation:

Major keys to continue charging ahead with your to-dos are acknowledgment and appreciation. Martha revealed her sophisticated method at the event. Jumping up and down, she shouted, “Yes, I’m fabulous!” She added, “The executives I work with always look at me funny but it works.”

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Learn more Practical Tools for Everyday Spirituality at our upcoming events at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens.

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Spring Into Action - Tips for Freeing Up Energy

Getting Your Energy Loose and Free

Excerpted from the book, The Rest of Your Life, Finding Repose in the Beloved, by John-Roger with Paul Kaye 

““I cannot emphasize enough that completing what you start is one of the most worthwhile things you can do for your health and well-being. It’s a joyful process because, as you complete, the unconscious starts clearing, your energy is returned to you, and you begin to live in the present making conscious decisions and completing them on the spot.””

— John-Roger, D.S.S. with Paul Kaye

We humans don't like to think about our incompletions. So what we have not completed gets pushed down into the unconscious realm inside of us. Although that realm doesn't see, doesn't hear, and doesn't think or feel because it is asleep, it does have information and it does pull on our energy. You can feel it when it's time to do something about an area you have been avoiding or procrastinating about. As you approach that area, you will start to get tired, achy, and sometimes you will even start nodding off. That is because you are in the area that is sleeping.

This is the time for you to stay present and awake, for this is where you have been avoiding living. You have found the area inside of you that is unconscious, that's not aware, that's sleeping, and that has a large amount of your energy locked into it. Imagine getting that energy loose and free.

You can free that energy in this moment, by moving your body into action and starting the process of completing. As you start to do this, you will feel the energy coming loose and free inside of you, and you may find that all sorts of aches and pains will release.

This is a healing action, not necessarily healing in terms of disease, but certainly healing in terms of completing your life patterns and your goals. It's so extremely important because as an area inside of you that was asleep awakens, your energy stops leaking away into it and becomes immediately available to you as a conscious, awake person.

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Reclaiming Your Energy--the Magic of Completion workshop was held October 17, facilitated by Martha Ringer, DSS, Productivity Expert, and author of Complete.Done.Finished. The Joy of Doing, The Magic of Completion. She may offer this workshop at a future time. 

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What does completion mean to you?

Celebrating the U.N. International Day of Peace

What Does Peace Mean To You?

#PeaceDay #JoinTogether #PeaceLabyrinth

September 21 is the U.N. International Day of Peace. Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens, together with the Institute for Individual and World Peace took part in celebrating and honoring this day with several events.

We started with a Peace Concert, listening to the exquisite, healing music of Merrill Collins, global peace song finalist. Her music swept us away with her beautiful, healing sounds. What a perfect way to help put our bodies, minds, emotions, and our spirit into peace.

We followed with an Acceptance and Peace Seminar. Many say the way to world peace is through individual peace. Using this principle, we came together to explore how to come to greater inner peace by simply accepting what is.

Lastly, we moved forward into celebration and action with a Peace Day Open House. 

We celebrated by sharing refreshments, music, taking fun "selfies," and with getting to know new people. We shared our love, togetherness, oneness, and our common purpose of wanting to create a better world internally and externally for ourselves, others, our planet.

We moved into action by placing our peace intentions and "blessings" at the Labyrinth, the Peace Pole, the Peace Tree. Many shared their photos on their social sites - spreading peace intentions into the world. 

At 12 noon we participated in the U.N. Global Minute of Peace/Moment of Silence. Paul Kaye, President of MSIA and Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens, led these moments as we all circled around the labyrinth. He spoke a bit about what is peace and what we can do to create peace. 

Lastly, we took it inward again, to what many call our "Source" by attending Peace Sound Meditations led by Paul Kaye. Paul sounded chimes, singing bowls and meditative instruments, and played guided meditations by John-Roger. These meditations assist us to attune more deeply to where many believe it all begins, within. As someone said, "Peace begins with you."

Some ways to create peace

Paul Kaye mentioned some points for how to create peace. 

• Peace is present. 
• Peace is an inner process. 
• Peace is the cessation of againstness.
• Peace is a choice regardless of circumstances.

Listen to Paul's Global Minute of Peace Address

What does peace mean to you? 

#KeepPeaceAlive #PeaceEveryday #SpreadPeace