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. 

There Is Only Success

 
John-Roger, DSS, PAL&G Founder

John-Roger, DSS, PAL&G Founder

Have you ever set a goal for yourself only to find yourself falling short of it? Maybe you have come very close but haven’t reached into the success of completion. Use the theater of the mind to envision your success—your accomplishment, completion and achievement. If you create this vision strongly enough it can happen for you. Even when a part of you seems to give up—consciously or otherwise—there is another part that can hold the vision. Then, perhaps when you least expect it, you will “suddenly” have accomplished your goal.

Once you have set a goal or direction for your self, you may experience a fear of failure, a fear of being unable to measure up and reach that goal. You’re in good company. I’m sure that everyone on the planet has experienced this fear. There are no real failures, however. The word failure is only your interpretation of a test you aren’t prepared to handle yet.

Perhaps the reason you aren’t prepared to handle it is that you haven’t imaged-in enough correct information. You haven’t gone over it enough in your mind, placed it in your emotions as confidence, or placed it in your body as a skill that you can produce when the test comes. These so-called failures aren’t recorded against you. You can simply say, “Yes, I failed that course. I guess I had better repeat it.” Or, “I guess I’m not cut out for that. I’ll start in another direction.”

The test does not record your failure; you record your failure. The test records your lack of preparation and reveals to you the work necessary for your success. Understanding this, you may see that your job is to go back, review the material you didn’t understand before and learn it this time. When you can approach life with the attitude that each step is a preparation for the next step, you’ll be in good territory.

How would you like it if, on the ladder to heaven, someone went ahead of you and built each rung perfectly so that you and each succeeding person could go up easily? That would be nice, wouldn’t it? How would you like it, however, if the person in front of you couldn’t even hammer a nail straight and left the rungs crooked and loose? Would you want to follow that person? You would probably prefer to follow the one who does things right, is careful and checks their work. And even when you follow such a person, you must be responsible for your own progression.

While it is wise to follow the best example you can find, it is also wise to check things out for yourself. At each step of the ladder, test to make sure that you are still firmly supported. Watch the step in front of you; make sure it’s solid. When it comes toward you, take it, and keep your eyes on it until it is below you. Then watch the next step as it comes. That way, you won’t be unsure of the step you’re on; you will already have prepared yourself by watchfulness, thoroughness and constant checking. You won’t stumble and fall over your work and the people below will be able to follow you safely.

When the time is right, you will awaken to the Light consciousness within you. One aspect of your awakening will be assuming responsibility for yourself and your actions. Suppose your neighbor recommends a car, you buy it and it turns out to be a car in need of repairs. Whose fault is it? Your neighbor’s? No way. It’s your fault. Why didn’t you check it out? Why didn’t you take it to your mechanic? Why didn’t you go through it more thoroughly?

The only true answer is simply that you didn’t. Don’t blame your neighbor. You don’t even have to blame yourself. Let the experience be your teacher. Learn from it; it’s been a valuable experience. When you get sick and tired of making dumb mistakes you’ll get a little smarter in your approach. I have often said, “When you get sick and tired of being tired and sick, you’ll change.” It’s rare that you’ll change prior to that point, however, unless you have someone who loves you enough to push you out of bed in the morning and get you on your way.

You were put here with something special inside you: the ability to contact Spirit within. With that spiritual energy you can contact universal mind and place success images into it through your own mind. When you have done this long enough, your positive images will weigh upon the universal mind and they will start to precipitate down into reality. To implement these positive images, universal mind chooses people whose minds are open-architects, engineers, scientists and similar individuals who have within them the creative urge to be open to what is new.

Baruch Bashan.
John-Roger, DSS


This article by John-Roger was first published in the Movement Newspaper, June 1987.


 

Love Is the Miracle Maker

“Miracles become the result of your Love.” ~John-Roger, DSS


A miracle is an unexpected but welcome gift. Course in Miracles friends say, “Forgiveness is the home of miracles.” It is indeed miraculous and surprising - for me anyway - when my heart floods with love for one I labeled “foe.”

Miracles are different though from magic. Grudges usually melt best when met with meditation. Work needs to be done before benefits surface. It’s kind of like a 401k. Hard-earned money is deposited into an account. In time, if invested correctly, lots of money appears!  

So, if I can go into meditation with the intent to touch the divine, angels kiss my forehead. Conversely if I continue on the war path of againstness …Well, you’ve probably heard the saying, “What you focus on you create.”

But you’ve also heard what you resist, persists. So when the war lords are drumming up strategies of revenge, I put my best Mother Mary/Shakti/Fairy Godmother game face on and have a little chat.

Wicked War Lords: (Shouting at the top of their lungs.) They are wrong, bad and we are going to withhold love from them forever and ever and ever. Here’s how we can get back at them…

Super Mother Mary/Shakti/ Fairy Godmother: (In a soft, soothing voice.) Er, excuse me for a moment. You sound like you’re really angry, hurt and in a whole lot of pain. It’s okay that you feel rage. You have a right to your feelings.

Wicked War Lords: (Stunned.) I do?

Super Mother Mary/Shakti/ Fairy Godmother: Mm-hmm. And I bet you thought when so-and-so did such-and-such, they did so because you were not (fill in the blank) enough or bad or not worthy of love.

Wicked War Lords: (Heads hanging and shuffling their feet) Yeah, kinda.

Super Mother Mary/Shakti/ Fairy Godmother: Well, their behavior is not about you. YOU are our precious one. We love YOU soooooooo much.

Wicked War Lords: Really?

Super Mother Mary/Shakti/ Fairy Godmother: Yes! So, would you be willing to chant Ani-Hu or Om or any one of the divine mantras designed to lift and heal?

Wicked War Lords: (Dewy-eyed) Yes.

The mystic Rumi had it right: “Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.” And then, yes, miracles appear.


For more info about meditations, forgiveness, and little miracles, visit PeaceLabyrinth.org/Events. On many 2nd & 4th Tuesdays popular meditation instructor and author, Paul Kaye will holds meditation and sound journeys.

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.

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Performer George.jpg
 

The Way of Happiness

My favorite color is happiness for the Way of Happiness body photo.jpg

Happiness is intangible. Like a Guerlain perfume or Chopin composition, the notes give the senses a lovely tickle. Aware that humans at their core like long soaks in feeling good, the United Nations designated March 20th the  International Day of Happiness. Even if there are realities like rent, we can dedicate one day to enjoyment!

So, on Tuesday, March 20th, popular meditation instructor, Paul Kaye and communications expert, Anna Sugai explored The Way of Happiness at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens. The conversations to living with a sincere smile stretched beyond the confines of the property. People from 169 countries tuned in on the web. From Afghanistan to Argentina to Australia, we citizens of the world are eager to live with more joie de vivre. (France was online, too!) 

Paul pointed out that we all have the tools for allowing in more sunny feelings. We have the power of choice. “[It’s] like sitting in a dark room, knowing where the light switch is.”

Ahhh, but some of us forget. Perhaps we drown for a time feeling responsible for the storm of scowls surrounding us.  (No one I know, of course.)

The Way of Happiness provided marvelous keys for keeping the light on and our spirits high. Including dancing to Pharrell Williams’ billion YouTube hit song, "Happy." To "Shake it Off" with music and movement – thank you Taylor Swift – are fantabulous antidotes to the blues.

Anna spoke of the magic of self-talk. She told of traveling solo and lonely. On a stroll through the Louvre, she committed to a cheerier perspective and chat with herself. A European romance ensued.  (Sorry, she didn’t elaborate.)

Serendipitously, Paul and Anna on their happiness research landed upon a Gandhi quote. “Happiness is when what you think, what you say and do are in harmony.”

Whistling a happy tune while resisting British rule through non-violence might be a tad challenging for some of us. Yet, Mahatma Gandhi is an exquisite example of how circumstances do not define the bounds of happiness.

Tips and wise words about happiness also came from participants. “It is a rather crude analogy,” said one online visitor, “but I have always said it is possible to be joyous sitting on a manure pile and possible to be unhappy even with my greatest dreams realized.”

A divorcée hit with the doldrums shared about writing 3 daily gratitude items at bedtime for 3 months. Life shifted in a happy direction for her.

The Original Ted Talk – a stellar 90 second segment – from The Mary Tyler Moore Show was played. Watch it here. More than a "fake it until you make it" approach, Ted Baxter takes on a Nike “Just Do It” attitude.

To quote Muspoetographer, Lucy P. Dickinson, Happiness is, “Living in the rainbow of God’s Grace and blessings.”  

Or maybe when we fling our hearts wide open, we are on the way to happiness.

How To Meditate

With so much busyness and distraction available in the modern world, it’s important to take time for ourselves each day to focus on our spiritual nature. To drop the physical concerns of the day, and once again become aware that we are spiritual. That we are, through our Soul and our precious life breath, an extension of the Divine.

There are many meditation techniques available for tuning into your Spirit, or higher nature. Here at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens one of the primary ways that we learn to attune to and focus on God is through what we call Spiritual Exercises. Spiritual Exercises are an active technique of bypassing the mind and emotions by using a spiritual tone or vibration to connect to the energy that flows from God through all existence.

In Spiritual Exercises (S.E.’s) there is a focus on actively directing the attention inside, rather than attempting to passively quiet the mind. In our experience S.E.’s can assist a person to transcend illusions and limitations and move into the awareness of themselves as Soul: the pure, sacred, loving nature of who we truly are.

A recommended chant for spiritual exercises is the "HU," which is pronounced like the name Hugh or which can be said by pronouncing the sounds of the individual letters "H" and "U." The HU tone is an ancient name of God and is a wonderful way of attuning to the higher vibrations of Spirit.

The ANI-HU is a variation of the HU chant. Pronounced (AHN-EYE-HUE), the ANI-HU is also an invocation to God with an added dimension that brings in the quality of empathy and oneness with others. As you chant this tone, you may find the quality of empathy and connection with others increased.

We invite you to follow the instructions below and try doing Spiritual Exercises, and observe the results for yourself.

People who do Spiritual Exercises regularly often report experiencing a deeper peace and relaxation and a greater connection to the Spirit inside. You might try doing Spiritual Exercises daily for 10 or 15 minutes and see if this practice works for you.

Instructions for Spiritual Exercises

1.     Call yourself forward into the "Light" of the Holy Spirit, or a Higher Power, for the highest good, and ask for protection and guidance during your S.E.’s.
 

2.     Chant the HU (pronounced H-U or HUE) or the Ani-HU (pronounced AHN-EYE-HUE), which are sacred names of God. It’s preferable to do this inwardly (silently).
 

3.     While chanting, focus your attention in the “third eye” area, which is near the center of the head directly back from your forehead. It is in this place that the Soul has its seat and the Soul energy gathers.
 

4.     After you have chanted for about five minutes, stop and listen within. You are listening for the Sound Current, or audible life stream, which can be very subtle. You may hear it the first time you do this, or it may take years of practice. This is a very individual matter.
 

5.     If you find your mind wandering and you lose the focus of listening, you can focus the mind again by chanting.
 

6.     After about five minutes of listening, you can return to chanting again. The times are approximate, and the idea is to spend time in S.E.’s both chanting and listening.

For longer periods of S.E.’s, you can expand the time for chanting and listening to fifteen minutes each. For example, in an hour session you can chant for fifteen minutes, listen for fifteen minutes, and then repeat the chanting-and-listening cycle one more time.

All of the above are guidelines, so you can experiment with how you do S.E.’s, using what works for you at a particular time and not getting attached to a certain form. The focus is on doing your Spiritual Exercises with as much loving and devotion to the Spirit within as you can.

Again, we invite you to visit this peaceful place, and while you’re here to go inside in whatever way works for you, and tap into the riches within.

"Restoring peace inside of you allows you a few moments of quietness. Spirit can become present. There can be a great healing inside of you, and a re-attunement to the oneness which is the peace of Spirit."
John-Roger, PAL&G Founder, DSS
(From: Loving Each Day For Peacemakers, Choosing Peace Every Day)

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.
 

World Happiness Logo.jpg

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.


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.

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?

 

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

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Forgiveness Is the Key

Wish I had a magic wand to make hurt go away. Well, as a human being on planet earth, it appears that uncomfortable feelings are a reality. Thank goodness, though, for forgiveness. I still can’t prevent emotional injury from harming loved ones. But I can dig into my bag of tricks and transform hell into heaven for myself. Or at least head in the direction of relief.

Here are a few tried and true methods:

Ø  Pray for the Person:
Pray for the person who caused you harm for 30 days. (A go-to for students of Course in Miracles teacher and author, Marianne Williamson as well as 12-Steppers.)

Ø  Perspective:
Imagine how you might react if you had the person’s upbringing and/or circumstances.

Ø  People are Trees:
Ram Dass, author of Be Here Now and a seminal leader in spiritual studies, says, “When you go out into the woods, and you look at trees, you see all these different trees. And some of them are bent, and some of them are straight, and some of them are evergreens, and some of them are whatever. And you look at the tree and you allow it. You see why it is the way it is. You sort of understand that it didn't get enough light, and so it turned that way. And you don't get all emotional about it. You just allow it. You appreciate the tree.”

New York Times bestseller author, John-Roger, DSS in this video says that others are mirrors. When judgments arise, it’s because we have yet to forgive a similar quality in ourselves. His words about not expecting instantaneous forgiveness are stellar, too!

Love to see your thoughts about forgiveness in the comments section. Better yet, delighted if you can share them on Tuesday, February 20th. We’re dedicating a whole evening to the subject of forgiveness at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens. Click here for more details.



Sole of the Labyrinth

By September 2018 Jack Favor will have clocked 500 miles on the labyrinth at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens (PAL&G).  Jack finds the labyrinth an invaluable tool for “refocusing.” As he strolls the 11 concentric circuits, “more important ideas come to the forefront.”

As a student in a Doctor of Spiritual Science course, Jack was encouraged to pay attention to his dreams. Pythagorean philosophies and prime numbers surfaced in his sleep. (Before landing in his present profession, Jack was literally a rocket scientist.)  The “labyrinth helps me clarify those ideas.”

Serendipitously, labyrinths are created using the principles of sacred geometry…one of Pythagoras’ pet projects. Shapes and forms which repeat in nature when incorporated into a labyrinth produce a sacred energetic. (Maybe that’s why a labyrinth is also referred to as a moving meditation.)

“MSIA (Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness) is all about providing tools for awareness,” says Jack. “Less important matters fade and more important matters come to the forefront [when walking the labyrinth.]”

Plus it’s a good way to stretch the legs and escape a desk job. But Jack differentiates a labyrinth walk from a stroll on the beach or jog around the block. At Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens “The inner landscape is reflected with the outer landscape.”

Jack maintains that areas surrounding the labyrinth reflect consciousness. He sees the reflecting pool as a symbol of the unconscious; the pergola crowned by Madame Butterfly, the kingdom of emotions. And the Asian accented gardens? A foray into fantasy/imagination and the physical world.  With all its ways of awakening awareness, Jack believes the labyrinth is reflective of the mental realm.

Inspired by Jack, I took a turn in the labyrinth. After saying a prayer at the entrance, I solemnly stepped and silently chanted HU (the ancient Sanskrit name for God.) Looking up, a fat chipmunk was furiously swishing his tail. He seemed intent on capturing a nut or some sort of morsel. I laughed. He reminded me of my tabby cat. The ice cream truck music decided just then to serenade me with It’s A Small World.  I stepped off the labyrinth feeling lighter. No brilliant formulas. But some say joy is synonymous with soul. 

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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!


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.


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.”


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.”


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

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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Better than Champagne Wishes, a Sacred Entrance into 2018

Congratulations. You have successfully thrived (or survived!) another year. At the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve, will you toast with champagne? Or will a chocolate truffle melt in your mouth as you dream of a blissful future?

For your consideration for December 31, 2017: A New Year’s Eve Sacred Tones workshop. The evening event takes place at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens from 8 to 10 p.m. (So, you’ll still have time to attend other parties--or get home in your jammies early!)  Popular author and meditation teacher, Paul Kaye leads the group in powerful practices. A path to 2018 is prepared with ancient sounds of peace. Masterful meditations invoking soul wisdoms are played. Heart-centered processes also allow participants to burn past sorrow and open to new opportunities.

Clarinetist, Alethea Lamb, chuckles about her Sacred Tones experience “Getting paid for playing more music” was on her wish list last year. Alethea won’t be at Sacred Tones 2017.  She’s playing a “gig” with musicians she loves.

Sacred Tones is more than a mere goal-setting event though. As Alethea says, “You go really deep. There’s so much peace…It’s like being in a womb.” She also warns that the event is “well-attended.” (So get there early!)

More good news about the New Year’s Eve Sacred Tones Workshop:
Complimentary admission
Available online.
Detailed info at peacelabyrinth.org/events


The Best Holiday Gifts Ever

“We need no wings to go in search of Him, but have only to look upon Him present within us.” ~St. Teresa of Avila

Faster than FedEx, gifts are delivered with each heartbeat. You don’t even need a saint or Santa to deliver the present. Yes, you already know you are:

·         A precious child of God

·         Adored by the Creator

·         At One with the Universe

·         All the Above

Wouldn’t it be wonderful though to know how truly, truly divine you are? Better than any Porsche or Jimmy Choo shoes!


HERE ARE TWO NEW YEAR'S EVENTS. 
Embrace all that is great and holy. Let go of 2017. Welcome in a shiny Light and Love filled 2018.

New Year's Eve Sacred Tones Workshop, Sunday, December 31, 8-10pm PT

New Year's Resolution Spiritual Spa Morning, Saturday, January 6, 2018, 10am-2pm PT

 


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.


Finding Forgiveness & Love

 “For every minute you remain angry, you give up sixty seconds of peace of mind.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Love is the answer. How many times have you heard that? It’s a truth, but getting to love and forgiveness can be a curvy road. Judgments, justified or not, are major culprits.

“There is nothing good or bad, but thinking makes it so,” says Prince Hamlet. He was one soul-searching fellow. (Maybe that’s why Hamlet is one of Shakespeare’s most famous tragedies.) Wise words, yet he landed into ill fortune. He lacked tools.

In matters of the healing heart, techniques and classes can be of assistance. Techniques presented at Paul Kaye’s Introduction to Meditation and Sound, A Deeper Experience, held at Peace Awareness Labyrinth & Gardens (PAL&G), can offer such assistance. My experience is these techniques help me create peace of mind. Labyrinth walks (designed using sacred geometry) also help me unwind my disturbing beliefs.

As one who has led guided labyrinth tours for over four years, I often see smiles appear on visitors walking the labyrinth. People tell me of the comfort they experience here. Part of the healing may come from a sort of pampering that takes place at PAL&G. Not the champagne and mani-pedis sort, but by taking time out and opening ourselves to up to our inner core--it’s as if heaven bestows blessings and healing. An hour or two walking the labyrinth and gardens, or steeping in a meditative sound bath, are opportunities to put aside Facebook. It’s a time to remember how we are cherished and adored by higher beings. The experience lingers after the gates close behind us.

Poet, William Wordsworth wrote, “Trailing clouds of glory do we come from God, who is our home: Heaven lies about us in our infancy!”

It’s nice to know that during our short stint on planet earth there’s a place where we can re-member ourselves to that glory. 


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.


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.