Cedarfire-Newsletter Archives 2003

*** Welcome ***

This past month, I attended a wonderful celebration of Yoga Meets Dance, led by Beth Rigby. In the past few years, I haven't gone to many classes, and this was a wonderful experience. We met in the early evening, in the backyard of a private home. Surrounded by red rocks cliffs, we did some yoga stretches on the grass to warm up, then began freestyle dancing to music.

We heard a thunderstorm in the distance, unusual at this time of year. While we were dancing and playing, the thunderstorm got closer and closer, the wind blew, and it began to sprinkle, cooling the heat of the day. We were at one with the storm and nature.

Beth had said we were going to dance through the four elements of earth, wind, water, and fire, and so we did. As we laid on the grass at the end to meditate, the thunder faded into the distance, and the mist of rain stopped. Afterwards, our group talked for a while, reluctant to end the incredible event. I came home refreshed and relaxed.

Anyone wanting to learn more, go to Yoga Meets Dance.

*** Feature Article ***

* Walking As A Tool For Change *
by
Linda-Ann Stewart

Many years ago, I was devastated when a relationship ended. All I wanted to do was pull the covers over my head and escape. I knew that taking a walk would improve my mood, but it was an act of will to get myself prepared. As one sock went on, I thought, "Maybe I'll just go lie down." Forcing myself to pull the other sock on, I thought, "Maybe I'll just go watch TV." Lacing each shoe brought up other excuses not to go. But I persevered, took a deep breath and pushed myself out the door.

Research on depression has shown that exercise and walking is almost as effective as anti-depressants. Brain chemicals called endorphins release during exercise, and they naturally elevate mood. Studies have also shown that people who exercise have higher self-esteem, a greater sense of competence and internal control over events, and sleep better. It's been said that if there's a fountain of youth, it's exercise.

Half an hour later, I was returning home with a quarter mile to go and decided to check my inner self to determine how I was feeling. Although I was still sad, I was amazed to find that I could now plan ahead. I actually looked forward to getting involved with a project waiting for me at home. My mental outlook had improved by over 80 percent. To me, at the time, that was a miracle.

Even if I feel exhausted after work, walking rejuvenates me. That's because the tiredness is more mental than physical. Whenever I need to ground myself, clear my head, break through a writer's block, or ruminate on a problem, I know that taking a walk will help all of those things. I sometimes say affirmations as I stroll. It's as if the exercise starts stagnated energy moving again. Walking jumpstarts my well being on a physical, mental, emotional and spiritual level. So, anytime you're feeling sad, angry, blocked, or stuck, try taking a walk. I'll bet you'll find that it helps you clear the way for the changes you desire.

copyright (c) 2003 Linda Ann Stewart

*** Affirmation ***

My well being is important to me, and I make attending to it a priority. I know that exercise is beneficial on a physical, mental, emotional and spiritual level. Knowing that, I find the time to exercise in the best way for my body. As I walk, deeper levels of my mind are at work finding solutions to whatever challenge I'm facing. If I'm reluctant to take a walk, I remind myself of all the benefits, take control of my own well being, and get my feet moving.

*** Question and Answer ***

Question: I was wondering whether you need to have a plan to achieve a goal or whether you should let the subconscious mind work out the best way?

Answer: It is important to have a goal, and then steps to take on the way to the goal. But it's also important to not "outline" how the goal is going to manifest. It's a tightrope to walk. For instance, suppose you want a new job. You know the steps to take. You look at the job listings, you send out resumes, you go for interviews. The more action you take in the physical world helps the subconscious to know what it is that you want, and how committed you are to the goal.

If you focus on the new job coming from one of those that you investigated, that's "outlining." You've decided "how" it has to happen, instead of letting the subconscious mind figure out how. Or suppose you see a job that you really want, and set your heart on "that job." Your new job may come when you feel led to go into a market and bump into a friend or former coworker who gives you a lead. You follow any inspiration you might have because that's the inner mind directing you.

If you try to control the result or outcome, that's when you run afoul of life. Having a plan lets the inner mind know what you want, but if you try to force the goal to manifest in the way you want to, you'll not get very far. The inner mind knows so much more than you do about the situation. As you follow your plan, you stay aware of any nudges from the inner mind. Your job is to remain focused on your goal, move in that direction, but let your inner mind power it. Just like driving a car. You keep your vision down the road, you steer the vehicle, but the motor is what moves the car. You don't have to do a Fred Flintstone, and run or push the car.

Would you like to submit a question for me to answer in the newsletter? If so write to me at: linda-ann@cedarfire.com

*** New ***

* Announcement *

I'm taking my own advice, in that I need reduce some pressure in order to take care of myself. Due to the increased time and responsibility in taking care of my mother, and a couple of projects I need to spend more time on, I'm going to suspend writing any new articles for my site for at least a few months. These are the ones I announce under "New Articles." I'll still be writing the article for the newsletter, and continue to post a guest article at the beginning of the month on my site.

* New Articles *

We tend to be a goal-oriented society that loves learning "how to" do things. However, putting this knowledge into practice is the next, and most important, step. Learn how to take the steps necessary to achieve your goal rather than remaining in the process of how you're going to accomplish it. Read Keep Your Eye On The Goal.

The guest article this month is by K.P. Rajagopalan. While it's natural to become dejected after a disappointment, a person can't change the past. But the future is still an open book. In this article, the author discusses how to transform disappointments into successes. Read Can You Go Back To Yesterday? Stop Dwelling On The Past And Get Ahead.

*** Recommended Reading ***
"Verbal Abuse Survivors Speak Out: On Relationship and Recovery"
by Patricia Evans

This book is the sequel to the book I reviewed last month. As much as I learned from the first book, I learned even more from this one. Not only does it contain letters from people that have experienced verbal abuse, but the author goes into much greater detail analyzing the problem and ways to deal with it.

In one letter, a woman writes that she attended a support group for abused women. The women would discuss their bruises, broken bones, etc. She's ask each woman, "Which was worse in your relationship, the physical or verbal abuse?" Each woman asserted the verbal abuse was worse. Verbal abuse isn't something that can be pointed to and a person can say "I have a bruise, therefore I was hurt." It's much more diffuse and dangerous than that.

The author covers the different games and "traps" an abuser uses to convince the survivor that it's their fault. Just like a physical batterer will convince his/her victim that they deserved the battering. Near the end of the book, there are affirmations for self-esteem and instructions on how a person can begin to build their self-worth.

Verbal abuse kills the spirit. But with time and help, and self-recognition, a person can heal. This book is a great resource in the direction.

To read more about it, click on Verbal Abuse Survivors Speak Out: On Relationship and Recovery.

July 2003
Volume 4, Issue 1

*** Contents ***

Welcome
Feature Article
Affirmation
Question and Answer
Recommended Reading

*** Welcome ***

This issue celebrates three years of publishing this newsletter. In just a month, my site will celebrate its fifth anniversary. Much has happened in those years, to me personally and around the globe. Keeping a positive perspective has always been important to me, even when I haven't been able to achieve it. I know that the tendency of events works toward good of all, even if they seem to be challenging and traumatic to individuals. And I know that when a number of people hold a certain mindset, they influence events. Let us know that only good comes from all the upheavals in the world, and that those affected by the difficulties are comforted.

*** Feature Article ***

* Is Your Thinking Making You Miserable? *
by
Linda-Ann Stewart

The question of "Which came first, the chicken or the egg" is for philosophers. However, on a practical plane, many people have wondered about which comes first, a thought or a feeling? When a friend stands you up for lunch, do you feel rejected and worthless, or do you figure that something came up and they couldn't contact you to cancel? Although you might think that feelings arise spontaneously, a thought actually precedes the feeling.

If something happens that sparks an automatic emotional response, you still interpret the feeling. When you interpret your feelings through the filter of past negative experiences, they may give you an unfair interpretation of a current event. For example, a person's boss criticizes her work, saying she knows the employee can do better. Instead of taking it as a compliment and a challenge, the worker instantly recalls when her father berated her, and instantly feels inadequate. That's not how the boss meant it, but how the employee misconstrued it.

No matter what happens, we interpret events according to our past experiences and our beliefs, and then evaluate the present conditions accordingly. By tracking what you're saying to yourself, you can begin to change the misinformation you've been feeding yourself. For instance, suppose two people are on their first plane ride to Europe. The first person is petrified of flying and anxious about the unfamiliar conditions at the other end. The second person is also feeling anxious, but interprets it as excitement and anticipation of her travel adventure.

If you're feeling unhappy for any reason, become aware of what you're telling yourself. These are unconscious negative affirmations. Write them down, then challenge them. Look at the situation from all sides, and figure out different reasons why what you're thinking/feeling may not be true. Then write a positive affirmation based on your re-assessment. In the case of the lunch date, it could be your friend's car wouldn't start and her cell phone was dead. You could then affirm "I am a good friend and my friends value me."

It may be that your feelings are correct. Many times, our uncomfortable emotions are signals that something is wrong. But it's a good idea to assess whether the "something wrong" is a reaction to an event that happened in your past, or what is actually happening to you in the present. If the feeling is correct, then find a self-supporting and respectful way to handle the situation. Suppose the friend actually did stand you up. In that case, you can confront her about her actions, stating how you felt. Do this without trying to shame her, but letting her know that it has affected your relationship with her. And discuss how it can be remedied.

When you begin to question some of your automatic thoughts, you can then evaluate them and the emotions they bring up from a different perspective and possibly more realistically. Breaking the cycle of negative habitual thinking helps to start a new, more beneficial pattern.

copyright (c) 2003 Linda Ann Stewart

*** Affirmation ***

I become aware of the negative things that I say to myself, knowing that what I tell myself actually triggers my feelings. I recognize that I accepted negative ideas when I was younger, but that they have no validity in the present. When I recognize I'm feeling uncomfortable, I become aware of the negative statement that triggered that state and challenge it. Assessing the situation realistically, without filters from past experiences, I'm able to make rational decisions. As I support myself by being more positive and not letting the old ideas victimize me, my entire being benefits.

*** Question and Answer ***

Question: What is "anchoring" and how can I use it to help me?

Answer: "Anchoring" is a technique used by NLP practitioner to help to "anchor" a suggestion. When a suggestion is being given, the NLP practitioner, hypnotherapist, or the person himself can touch/press on a part of their body to "anchor" the suggestion. It's much like using an anchor for a boat. The body remembers the sensation, and when that place is pressed at any other time, the suggestion is recalled on a subconscious level. Silva Mind Control uses a technique putting the first two fingers and thumb together to remember the peace the person felt while in the deep meditation. Its the same idea.

The body stores emotions, thoughts, ideas in the muscles and organs. You might have experienced (or had a friend who did) going to a massage therapist, and had the therapist massage an area of the back that then triggered tears, sadness, or anger. It's because the body has locked in a situation that created emotion into the muscle. "Anchoring" uses this process to remember positive ideas by locking them into the skin, tissue and muscle.

Would you like to submit a question for me to answer in the newsletter? If so write to me at: linda-ann@cedarfire.com

*** New ***

* Free Metaphysical Books On-Line *

I've recommended this site before, but I think it's time to tell everyone about it again. It's a great place for those who want to learn more about the nature of the Universe and their relation to It. This site has on-line books that can be read on the internet, for free. The books are classics in New Thought literature, with authors like Emerson, Charles Fillmore, Emmett Fox, Joseph Murphy, Ernest Holmes, James Allen, Florence Scovel Shinn, and many, many more. Many of the authors on this site are ones that I recommend in this newsletter and on my site. If you read some of the free books on this site, you'll receive a fantastic education in metaphysics.

To look at the authors and books available, go to Free Online Metaphysical Books.

* New Article *

It may surprise you to know that at any point, barring acts of God, your future is almost entirely in your own hands. Success can be yours, as long as you have the burning desire and determination to persist in its accomplishment.

Read The Problem & The Solution Lie Within YOU by Asoka Selvarajah, Ph.D.

*** Recommended Reading ***
"Your Infinite Power To Be Rich"
by Joseph Murphy

Joseph Murphy is one of my favorite authors, and this is one of my favorite books on prosperity. As with his other books, this one is full of affirmations and examples of how others have succeeded using mind principles. He describes a three step process of refusing to think negatively, affirming your goal throughout the day, and imagining it as you go to sleep at night.

Dr. Murphy addresses various issues, such as feeling worthy to be wealthy, how God wants you to be rich, how God is your employer, how to use your imagination positively, the law of gratitude, the power of your words, and explains many of the mental laws. His books are very easy and enjoyable to read, and I've learned something new from every one I've read. Over the years, I've used his affirmations to improve my life.

To read more about it, click on Your Infinite Power to Be Rich.

August 2003
Volume 4, Issue 2

*** Contents ***

Welcome
Feature Article
Affirmation
Question and Answer
Recommended Reading

*** Welcome ***

I've been experiencing the challenge of being delayed in almost everything I've attempted. I'll begin a project, only to have to stop because something wasn't ready, or needs to be done, before the project can be completed. For instance, I planned to schedule more tobacco cessation classes to begin in September. I contacted the administrator of the location I hoped to use, except she was on vacation. Once she returned, she was happy to provide the space, but the delay meant I had to hop right on getting the promotion out. It's been like that since the middle of July for me. Nothing has been stalled forever, just for a few days, or a week or so. But it takes twice as long to get things done as I'd hoped. Because of that, I haven't gotten done some of the things I'd planned to. Since there seems to be a pattern and a reason, I'm disciplining myself to be patient and to remember that "Something good comes out of this."

*** Feature Article ***

* The Perfectionist's Curse *
by
Linda-Ann Stewart

"I am careful not to confuse excellence with perfection. Excellence, I can reach for; perfection is God's business."
Michael J. Fox

Do you ever avoid going out of the house with a hair out of place or in wrinkled clothes? Are you afraid to turn in a project, because of you feel it's not good enough? I knew an artist who started an oil painting of dried leaves and a decomposing stump. She spent days painting every leaf in great detail, so detailed that a person looking at it thought they were real. But she spent so much time on the details that she eventually moved on to another project and never finished the painting.

I've never met a happy perfectionist. Most of them are anxious, unhappy people, who have low self-esteem, and are trying to meet some impossible, ideal standard. Generally, the syndrome comes from a childhood with parents, caregivers or teachers who never approved of anything these folk did.

In elementary school, when I would make a perfect grade on a test, my father would ask, "Why didn't you make a 200%?" In fifth grade, we had a pop quiz, on which I made a 100%, and then the teacher had us take a similar one, on which I also made a perfect grade. When my father came home, I was waiting for him.

"I made a 100% today," I said.
"Why didn't you make a 200%?" he asked, as usual.
I laughed and said, "I did," and showed him the papers. He never asked me that particular question again.

Fortunately for me, my father did give me approval and acceptance. But for many people who are perfectionists, they've never received that from their parents. As children, they tried to do everything right to gain some acknowledgement and never did. What they didn't realize was that it wouldn't have mattered how perfect they were, their parents couldn't approve of their achievements because of the parents' emotional baggage. When the child grew up into adulthood, they continued the attempt to be perfect to avoid rejection. It didn't work in childhood, even though to the childish mind it appeared to give them some control over the situation. As an adult, it only causes misery.

There is a difference between being a perfectionist and being precise. A perfectionist isn't motivated by trying to be accurate or to do their best. They're actually living out of fear, trying to avoid making a mistake so that they aren't rejected or criticized. Being precise is important in many careers, and in many aspects of our lives. Accuracy is valuable in mixing chemicals, recipes, statistics, etc., because an error in any of these could cost dearly. But the difference between being a perfectionist and being precise is that the former takes over a person's whole being, while the latter is specific as to time and place.

Perfectionism can keep a person immobilized. An individual can be so afraid of making a move that they won't do anything, for fear that their decision could be the wrong one. A project may be finished, but they revise it over and over, trying to get it just right. The point they miss is that there are any number of right ways to complete the project. And continuing to work on it may mean they turn it in late.

Another side effect of perfectionism can be procrastination. As in the example just given, if a person keeps re-working a project until it's late, they may not be faulted for it "not being their best work." In other cases, an individual may postpone making decisions or taking action so they won't be condemned. Then they're criticized for never doing anything.

All of this comes from trying to live up to some artificial, unrealistic standard that was imposed on them in childhood. And instead of a positive principle they aspire to, they actually live in fear of not measuring up to it. So much energy is wasted in fear that they can never actually live up to their potential. And very likely, due to the fear of condemnation, a person won't risk suggesting new ideas or new methods in their careers or personal life, preferring to stick with what has been accepted in the past.

If you're a perfectionist, realize that it's a response to an environment that no longer exists. With your current knowledge, review the dynamics of your childhood relationships with your caregivers. Would you ever have gotten their approval, or were they imposing unrealistic expectations on you? For instance, expecting a four-year-old to act like an adult is irrational.

Experiment with not doing things perfectly; like leaving dishes in the sink for a few hours, don't straighten pictures, and go for a walk without dressing specifically for it. Whenever you feel anxious that you may not be doing something perfectly, remind yourself that nothing is ever perfect. Do your best, be accurate, be precise, but don't try to be perfect. Then move on. In so doing, you'll begin to reclaim your life, your power and your peace of mind.

copyright (c) 2003 Linda Ann Stewart

*** Affirmation ***

I give myself permission not to be perfect. Assessing my past, I recognize that perfection wouldn't have brought me the acknowledgement that I craved. Perfection won't bring me any greater acceptance or approval in the present. I am, and have always been, a valuable person. I do my best, I aspire to be accurate and precise, but I let go of any false belief that I have to be perfect to be accepted. The Universe accepts and approves of me, as I am, therefore I do the same.

*** Question and Answer ***

Question: After I had an upheaval in my life a couple of years ago that changed everything, including me, I haven't had the same connection to my guidance or to the Universe. How do I get it back?

Answer: There's an old saying that goes something like "When we lose touch with God, God hasn't moved, we have." It sounds like you had a transformation during that chaotic time. It sounds like your perspective, your relationships to others and to yourself has changed. Why would you think that your relationship to the Universe wouldn't change as well?

Your awareness has expanded because you've gone through a spurt in evolution. This means you've outgrown the old connection to your guidance and to the Universe. The connection is still there, but you have changed position in relation to it, and you're still looking for it in its old form. It's like you used to have an oak tree in your old backyard. Once you've moved, you're still expecting that oak tree to be in your backyard, even at your new house. You may have a grove of oak trees now, but you can't see them because you're looking for a single one.

You're ready for your connection to be at a higher level than you've ever experienced before. You've gone through a maturing process, therefore your sense of guidance and the Universe will also be more mature. Meditate. Be aware of tiny signals, the still, small voice. You may sense it in a new way. Meditate on the Oneness of the Universe, and how It flows through you. You're building a new relationship with yourself, learning about who you now are. You need to do the same with the Universe.

Would you like to submit a question for me to answer in the newsletter? If so write to me at: linda-ann@cedarfire.com

*** New ***

* New Article *

Many people have been exposed to the idea of positive thinking for prosperity, but have not reaped the benefits of it in their lives. There is a solution to this situation, and it is to consciously practice 'prosperous thinking.' Learn what it is and how to use it in this article.

Read Prosperous Thinking: The Royal Road To Prosperity by K.P.Rajagopalan.

*** Recommended Reading ***
"The Magic of Believing: The Science of Setting Your Goal and Then Reaching It"
by Claude M. Bristol

When I first began my studies of mental science and metaphysics, I was urged to read this classic. I resisted doing so, believing that I'd been exposed to the ideas contained in this volume through other authors. I had learned much of what this book teaches through others, but this book goes so far beyond, and into much greater depth, than anything closely related.

This book explores the idea that thought is magnetic, and discusses various experiments that support the theory. The author refers to thought as "mind stuff," and explains the functions of the subconscious and conscious minds, and how to manifest what we want. In the chapter on suggestion, he describes how political leaders have deliberately used the power of suggestion for their own aims. We are always being influenced by suggestion, and he explains how to use it for our own purposes, to improve our lives, and how it can seem like magic. Other chapters address visualization, the mirror technique to change the mind, projecting thoughts, and much more.

This book is full of energy and inspiration. If you need a read to motivate you to take charge of your thinking, then pick up this one.

To read more about it, click on The Magic of Believing: The Science of Setting Your Goal and Then Reaching It

September 2003
Volume 4, Issue 3

*** Contents ***

Welcome
Feature Article
Affirmation
Question and Answer
Recommended Reading

*** Welcome ***

We've had some nice thunderstorms this past month, though a couple of times, I couldn't leave my house due to the water flowing in the dry washes. During one of the storms, phone service to the area surrounding my house was knocked out. I had to drive five miles to a working phone to report it. Exciting stuff and the rain should help break the drought.

I'm beginning a new session of Tobacco-Cessation classes, with a whole new set of class materials. So even though I've facilitated the classes before, the new materials mean I'll have to completely overhaul what I've been teaching.

*** Feature Article ***

* First Aid for Stress and Anxiety *
by
Linda-Ann Stewart

Many clients come to me suffering from stress and anxiety. I teach them how to relax, help them find inner resources to deal with their challenges, but I also educate them on a very simple technique to reduce the symptoms of stress or anxiety. This tool is a very basic one, one that children do naturally. What is this simple and natural technique? Breathing. Simply breathing slowly and deeply is first aid for stress and anxiety.

A person in a stressful situation, whether real or imagined, will have their body prepare to deal with that situation. Their body will get ready to fight, flee, or freeze to protect them from danger. The mind could interpret normal, everyday pressures as a threat, such as having another project dumped onto their desk, or simply thinking about all they have to accomplish. If the stress continues, it can develop into anxiety.

The body/mind can't tell the difference between what is really happening, and what they imagine to be happening. The body responds to either by breathing rapidly and shallowly to bring in more oxygen to fight or flee. If a person breathes this way, in the upper part of their chest, this signals the brain that they are in peril, which instructs the body to prepare for that threat. The side effect of this is that it reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood. More oxygen is good, right? Not necessarily.

If someone is hyperventilating (breathing rapidly, from the chest), they're instructed to breathe into a paper bag to return carbon dioxide to their body. If oxygen and carbon dioxide aren't balanced, a feedback loop forms that actually interferes with the body's ability to use oxygen. It also signals the brain that the danger is escalating, which in turn, causes a person to pant even more. Eventually, this can lead to confusion, dizziness, anxiety, or even a sense that they're having a heart attack, stroke, and feel like they may die. I've had clients tell me that they've ended up in the emergency room with these symptoms.

Most of us have been taught to "Hold in your stomach so your tummy looks flatter," therefore we've been trained to breathe from the chest. People under stress or with chronic anxiety normally breathe shallowly, in the upper part of their chests, because of these early instructions. This habit predisposes them to anxiety and always being on the edge of fight or flight.

What's most people don't know is that even a calm person can signal the brain that there's a threat by simply breathing shallowly and quickly (don't try this at home). It doesn't matter if a person unconsciously chest breathes under real or imagined emotional duress, or does it deliberately. The brain gets the same message, and a feedback loop gets established that makes the situation worse.

The solution is counter-intuitive. While a person may feel like they need to breathe faster, if they're not actually in physical danger, they need to breathe slower and deeper. Long, slow, deep breaths signals the brain that the threat is past, and breaks the stress and anxiety cycle. To breathe deeply, you need to breathe from your belly.

Exercise:

Put your hand over your navel. This is to help you keep your attention on your abdoman as it moves in and out (or up and down, if you're lying down).
Relax your shoulders.
Exhale completely, emptying your lungs of carbon dioxide.
Push your abdoman out, keep your chest still, while at the same time taking a breath. This allows the lower parts of your lungs to get oxygen. If you need to, practice pushing your hand in and out with your abdoman to isolate those muscles. Then try breathing in again.
Hold the breath for a moment.
Pull your stomach in, while exhaling the breath completely.
Once you've identified how it feels to breath from your abdoman, exhale, fill the bottom of your lungs again, then expand your ribcage as you inhale, then your chest.
Hold it.
Exhale completely, emptying your chest, ribcage area, then abdoman.
When you get the rhythym down, inhale to a count of three, hold for three, exhale for three, hold for three, then inhale. Each count is one second long, as in "one thousand and one, one thousand and two, one thousand and three."
As you get more comfortable with this, expand the count of each step to four.

Practice this for at least ten breaths in the morning, afternoon and evening. Whenever you start to feel anxious, pressured or angry, take a few long, slow, deep breaths. You'll be learning a new way of breathing, and breaking the habit of panic breathing that has contributed to your stress and anxiety. You'll be amazed at how much better you feel.

copyright (c) 2003 Linda Ann Stewart

*** Affirmation ***

I remain calm and relaxed at all times, under all circumstances. Whenever I feel anxious, pressured or stressed, I breathe slowly and deeply. I have all the resources within me to handle any challenge that comes my way. The Universe always guides, directs and inspires my words, deeds and actions. I get everything done in Divine Order and in Divine Time.

*** Question and Answer ***

Question: I've been told by a metaphysical teacher that there is no karma, though I've read about it in many books. Could you clarify?

Answer: You aren't alone in your confusion. I think that the problem has come about by people in western societies misunderstanding what karma is all about. The west tends to be more literal than the east. In eastern societies, they understand the metaphorical nature of this concept. Karma isn't about an "eye for an eye," in other words, whatever we've done unto others in a previous life, they'll do unto us in the present or future one. According to this idea, we can't escape our punishment. That idea is very old testament.

But karma is simply the consequences of our actions. "What goes around, comes around." It is a concept to explain that our actions set in motion energy that then returns to us in a similar way. And wisdom erases karma. If we've been acting in a negative way, but then learn to be more compassionate and positive, then we've learned the lesson that the karma was to teach us. We don't need the consequences because they would be superfluous.

Many times, I'll work with clients that think they're being punished because of some awful thing they did in a past life. As we explore the situation, we discover that they've more than made up for the original "sin," but they're still punishing themselves for it. They haven't let go of the guilt or sadness, and that emotion (and what it attracts to them) is what is hurting them now.

To me, karma is simply emotional energy. We set karma in motion in this life, and reap its consequences, when we don't exercise and eat right. Or when we accept a negative message in childhood that we'll "never amount to anything," and that energy keeps replaying in our lives by becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Karma isn't some force to punish or reward us. It's simply the metaphysical law of cause and effect. When you set an emotionalized thought or belief in motion, when you take an action, that energy flows out into the Universe to return to you in like kind.

Would you like to submit a question for me to answer in the newsletter? If so write to me at: linda-ann@cedarfire.com

*** New ***

* New Article *

There is no guest article for this month.

*** Recommended Reading ***
"Strategic Self-Hypnosis: To Overcome Stress, Improve Performance, and Live to Your Fullest Potential"
by Roger A. Straus, Ph.D.

Many years ago, when I was just getting involved in hypnosis, I found this book in the library. Soon after, I bought my own copy. This book is a bit different from other self-hypnosis books. Although it includes information about hypnosis and the minds other books do, this one approaches the explanation a bit differently and it has different techniques than most of the other literature.

The holistic approach of this book is designed to help the reader become more aware of themselves, to work with latent potentials, and program a more positive conduct. The strategies are more indirect than the straight line direct suggestions of other authors. Though direct suggestion works well, there are times when a more indirect approach is more helpful, such as when a person is blocking or sabotaging an improvement.

In each chapter, there are exercises and each one includes a script to use or questions to answer. They include everything from exploring your potential and bringing it into the real world to assessing any problems or blockages. The author gives step-by-step instructions on how to do self-hypnosis and how to deepen the readers practice. There is also an interesting section on remembering your future, to help program what it is that you want. There are techniques to deal with various problems, such as being able to clear your mind in a stressful situation, stopping negative thinking, letting go of unwanted feelings, and more.

If you already have some knowledge of self-hypnosis (or even if you don't), this book will further your practice and help you go deeper in self-understanding. It draws upon the wisdom of your subconscious to help find solutions to problems that may have resisted resolution.

To read more about it, click on Strategic Self-Hypnosis: How to Overcome Stress, Improve Performance, and Live to Your Fullest Potential.

October 2003
Volume 4, Issue 4

*** Contents ***

Welcome
Feature Article
Affirmation
Question and Answer
Recommended Reading

*** Welcome ***

It's been an interesting month. On three successive Tuesdays this month, one of our utilities has gone out for some reason or other. First the phone service went out in the area after a storm. It was out for about three hours and interrupted my work. The next week, we had no water for several hours. It returned just in time for me to be able to get ready for the day's necessary errands and work. The week after that, the electricity went out for three hours. This time it was a planned outage that no one had told us about. Again, it came back on just in time for me to do what I needed to do. Then, the day before the newsletter was to be sent out, our phone service went out again for over a day. With no phone, there was no way to email or upload the newsletter. I'm sure there must be a message for me in all this, but I haven't figured out what it is just yet. What I have noticed is that these necessary services were interrupted on days that my schedule was extremely tight, and created a lot of stress. I'll be meditating on this in the next few days.

*** Feature Article ***

* All Of Life Is Spiritual *
by
Linda-Ann Stewart

A friend of mine recently said that he separates the spiritual from the material. "I have to be one or the other," he said. I know that many people have trouble with this issue. Certain things, like church and charity, are spiritual, but almost everything on the material plane, like money and work, are not. It's a misconception that most of us struggle with.

Carolyn Myss, in her tape "Spiritual Chaos" stated that for the first time in recorded history, we have a group of people who are walking the mystical/spiritual path while also remaining in the world. In most of history, a person either chose the spiritual life, and became a monk, priest, nun or hermit to avoid the temptations of the physical plane and remained focused on the spiritual, or they became a farmer, merchant, or artist and worshipped on holy days. For the first time, we have people who are choosing to remain in the temptations of the physical realm while integrating the spiritual. It's a difficult balancing act, considering that we only have the old paradigm to look to for guidance. Therefore, it's easy to understand why so many people separate the spiritual world from the physical world, and don't realize it's all one.

The Infinite God is omniscient and omnipresent, therefore there is nowhere God is not. Spirit is every action, every thought, every chair, rock and piece of sand. We are expressions of the One, each in our unique way. Realize that every material form is made up of atoms, which in turn are made of energy. That energy is Universal energy. The Universe created us, the earth and every form from Itself. Every thought is an electrical impulse, and that is God. The Divine doesn't care how much of It (the good) that we use, because if we misuse It's loving energy, then we pay the consequences and then get to learn how to use it in a more beneficial way. Think of the best teacher you ever had. He or she probably let you learn on your own, with just a bit of guidance. That's how the Universe lets us learn.

The boss that berates you, the neighbor that annoys you, the guy that cuts you off are all expressions of the Universe. Each one is in your realm because you drew them there to help you remember that everything is spiritual. Your house, your furniture, mowing the lawn, and the dust you clean is all the Infinite. When you go to buy a car (Spirit in form), you (an expression of God) barters (God in action) with the salesman (another expression of God) for the vehicle you want to help you get around in the physical plane (the Universe in form). You pay for the car with money (your spiritual activity of work results in a form of exchange that both you and the salesman agree to). It's all spiritual and it's all the positive, loving, good energy of the Universe.

It's a spiritual practice to view everything in your life as spiritual and created from Divine energy. It's not easy. We're so programmed to separate the Infinite from the "profane," when in reality, they're just different facets of Divine expression. A few years ago, I started using the following affirmation: "I experience more of God in my life." As I was stating that, I was knowing that God/the Universe/Spirit is all good and everywhere present. It helped me to remember that everything is spiritual.

copyright (c) 2003 Linda Ann Stewart

*** Affirmation ***

I know that Spirit animates everything and everyone, and is every action. I realize there is no separation between the spiritual and material. God is all there is. There is only the presence of the Infinite in every condition, situation, relationship, and possession in my life. The Universe is all good, and wants to express that goodness in every part of my life. I allow myself to experience more of God in my life now.

*** Question and Answer ***

Question: How do I block extraneous thoughts during meditation, visualization, or self-hypnosis?

Answer: Extraneous thoughts are normal when you meditate, visualize, or do self-hypnosis. It takes time and lots of practice to learn to not let them distract you during your spiritual and/or mental practice.

When other thoughts come into your mind during your practice, you don't have to let them interfere. I know that sounds odd, but the more you resent or resist those thoughts, the more attention they'll get. The more attention they get, the more often they'll interfere. When they come into your mind (and come they will, it's the nature of the mind), just acknowledge them then put your attention back on your practice.

When I'm working with a client, I say something like "other thoughts won't interfere," because the more a person is concerned about those thoughts, or resists them, the more they take attention away from the goal of the session. Therefore, I subliminally give them permission to have other thoughts, but then suggest that they won't have any power to distract.

The essence of this idea works with any individual's spiritual and/or mental practice. Give the thoughts permission to be there, but don't get emotionally involved with them. It's part of spiritual/mental practice to watch them objectively. This objectivity then translates into the rest of your life.

Would you like to submit a question for me to answer in the newsletter? If so write to me at: linda-ann@cedarfire.com

*** New ***

* New Article *

The term "Higher Self" is frequently used in metaphysical circles. But what does it really mean? This article gives a definition of what the Higher Self is, and describes some of the functions of higher consciousness. Read Who Is The Higher Self? by Asoka Selvarajah, Ph.D.

*** Recommended Reading ***
"How To Raise Your Self-Esteem"
by Nathaniel Branden

This is a great book, not just for self-esteem, but also to raise self-awareness. This book is filled with strategies and exercises to help the reader not only improve their self-esteem, but increase confidence, self-acceptance, self-respect and authenticity.

The author describes self-esteem as "a feeling of personal competence and a feeling of personal worth...a sum of self-confidence and self-respect." All of these go into a feeling of value. A person must feel "enough" to feel good about themselves and what they do. And a person with high self-esteem treats others with value and respect.

The author states that living consciously, in the sense of being aware of what they're thinking and doing, is necessary to high self-esteem. Living consciously means a person learns to listen to themselves and to trust their impressions and decisions.

Other chapters address feelings of guilt, integrating the younger self, living authentically, selfishness, nurturing the self-esteem of others and more. The exercises are easy to do, mainly completing sentences, and the answers can be very illuminating. For any person troubled with feelings of insecurity and inadequacy, I'd recommend this book highly.

To read more about it, click on How To Raise Your Self-Esteem.

November 2003
Volume 4, Issue 5

*** Contents ***

Welcome
Feature Article
Affirmation
Question and Answer
Recommended Reading

*** Welcome ***

I had a lot of deadlines this past month, but was able to accomplish what I needed to. One tobacco-cessation class that I facilitate finished at the beginning of the month, and I had to complete that paperwork. At the same time, I was busy promoting the next one that began at the end of the month. There's a lot work that goes into getting the participants started, and there are time constraints to when it has to get done. There were some last minute delays when paperwork wasn't delivered when it should have been that contributed to some stress. But it got done in time.

The other deadline was my giving a talk on "First Aid For Anxiety" at a service group in Flagstaff the first week of this month. The presentation was very well received, and I enjoyed the questions from the members. I wrote an article about this topic for the September issue of the newsletter. The subject is taken from my seminar "Breaking the Cycle of Stress."

*** Feature Article ***

* Your Write To Self-Discovery *
by
Linda-Ann Stewart

Many years ago, I took some creative writing classes in which I was taught a valuable technique called "freewriting." I used it frequently to help me break through writing blocks. Solutions came through me that I would never have conceived of consciously. Some time later, a friend was describing a process she'd learned in a journaling seminar.

I recognized the instructions and said "Oh, that's freewriting."
"No, it's not." she snapped at me. "It's called journaling."

Gingerly, I asked her for more information on the process and realized that the technique might be used for a different purpose, but it was the same method I'd learned in my writing class.

Ira Progoff calls it "journaling," Dorothea Brande, writer and writing teacher from 70 years ago calls it "writing exercise," Julia Cameron, author of "The Artist's Way," calls it "morning pages," writing teacher Natalie Goldberg calls it "writing practice," someone else called it "rapidwriting," my high school english class called it "stream of consciousness," and I learned it under the term "freewriting." I'm sure there are many other labels for this method, but they all describe the same process.

The idea is to start writing, without thinking about what you're writing, or thinking about how to say it. In this way, you bypass the mental editor that tells you "You can't say that, it's not nice," "Don't say it that way," or "You forgot to dot the 'i.'" When you do this, it allows you to mine the true thoughts and feelings of the subconscious mind.

In my writing class, there was a family man who was looking forward to attending his family reunion. He was someone the entire family looked up to and depended upon for guidance. One week, we had an assignment to do a freewriting. He did the assignment early in the morning, shortly before the reunion. During class, we each read our freewriting aloud. When it was his turn, it was the first time he'd read his freewriting since he'd written it. One of the passages he read was that he was "bracing" himself for his reunion, with all of the demands his family would place on him and the difficulty of trying to keep the peace between family members. After he read his piece, he said in a bewildered tone, "I didn't know I felt that way."

Creatively, the technique works because you're able to follow the normal meanderings of your creative processes without interference. The method acts in much the same way during journaling, by keeping the internal critic out of your processing. In all cases, it builds a trust in yourself, your mind and your feelings.

There are tangible reasons to practice this technique. Research indicates that those who write down their feelings about the challenges or traumas of their lives are actually healthier, with stronger immune systems, than those who don't write. Studies are also showing that writing can alleviate symptoms of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as lowering blood pressure, improving depression, anxiety and self- esteem. Writing about your challenges helps the mind to release the pent-up emotion and integrate the situation in a new, healthier way.

The Exercise:

Begin writing, don't pause at all. Keep the pen or pencil moving at all times. Write whatever comes into your mind, even if it's "I don't want to be doing this. I'd rather be washing the dishes." These conscious thoughts are normal, what I call the "detritus" or debris of the mind. They're surface thoughts, from the conscious mind or censor trying to gain control and get you to stop. If you write through these objections, you'll get beyond them to what your subconscious wants to say.

Don't cross out words, don't try to punctuate, spell correctly or capitalize if it's a bother. Just keep the pen moving, writing anything at all, even if it's garbage. If another thought comes to you before you finish a sentence, leave that sentence and begin writing on the new thought. Follow where your mind takes you. It has its own logic and reasoning that doesn't agree with the analytical mind. Don't try to think about what you're writing or worry if it makes sense or not. Trust your mind.

Set a time limit of writing for at least twenty minutes a day, or write at least two pages a day (Julia Cameron suggests three pages). This lets the mind know what is required of it, and how long it has to get its ideas through to you.

You can begin your writing with something that's made you angry, sad or scared. Or you can start with the phrase "I feel...." and go from there. Write about experiences that have affected you deeply, whether positively or negatively. If you feel blocked in some area, write about why you feel that way and what might be causing it.

It's recommended that you practice the exercise for several days in a row to get the mind to flow. Dorothea Brande and Julia Cameron suggest that the best time is in the morning, before the day's responsibilities pounce on you. But if you can't do it in the morning, anytime is good, as long as you do it.

As a technique for self-discovery and personal growth, this is one of the best. You learn to trust yourself and listen to the wisdom of your own mind. For you have all your answers within yourself. All you have to do is take the time and listen.

copyright (c) 2003 Linda Ann Stewart

*** Affirmation ***

I now take the time for myself each day and journal. Although the feelings that come up may be uncomfortable, I know that they've been a part of me and need expressing. I let myself write what I want to, without interference from my censor. In this way, my subconscious mind can re-assess the challenges of my life, releasing what no longer serves my Highest Good. When I write, I follow where my mind wants to go and trust its wisdom.

*** Question and Answer ***

Question: I have an extremely stressful job, supervising many people, with schedule changes every few hours or days. What can I do to cope with the stress?

Answer: I've given seminars on stress reduction, and define stress as "any adjustment that has to be done to the normal routine." So if your schedule changes several times a day, just the having to adjust to something new will create stress. Doing meditation, relaxation, or self-hypnosis will help to reduce the stress. Any of these mimics the end process of the stress response, namely the "let-down" period. By doing self-hypnosis, you're telling the mind that all is well now, and it's safe to let go and relax. It doesn't have to take long, just 15 minutes a day. I know that when I do this after a stressful day, it gives me a lift, and I feel much more refreshed. My clients and the seminar attendees also say the same. You'll be amazed. You can find the instructions to do self-hypnosis on my site at Steps for Self-Hypnosis. In the time when you are to put in your suggestions, just imagine yourself in a special place of peace and comfort. It may be someplace you enjoy visiting, or someplace imaginary. And it may change from time to time. You're giving yourself a mental vacation.

Would you like to submit a question for me to answer in the newsletter? If so write to me at: linda-ann@cedarfire.com

*** New ***

* My Seminars *

Information about my presentations and seminars is now on my site. I've been speaking for over twenty years, and have given talks, classes and seminars in my region ever since I began practising hypnotherapy. I'm now offering some of them to a larger audience. If you know of anyone who is interested in having me speak, or who is interested in any of my programs, please let me know. For an overview of my current speaking services, go to: Need a Speaker?.

* New Article *

Most of us have been taught that we're not good enough, and that we won't be loved until we meet someone else's impossible standards. But loving ourselves means that we are willing to stop comparing ourselves to others, and begin to appreciate who we are in any circumstances. Read Loving Yourself = True Freedom by Vered (Tanmayo) Neta.

*** Recommended Reading ***
"Guilt Is the Teacher, Love is the Lesson"
by Joan Borysenko, Ph.D.

Healthy guilt lets us know when we've violated our principles, formulates our conscience, and teaches us how we can do better in the future. However, when healthy guilt gets twisted into shame, it becomes toxic to the mind, body, soul and spirit. The author calls shame or unhealthy guilt as an "autoimmune disease." With it, we reject our worth and very being.

This book is a valuable asset for anyone who is carrying around the burden of shame or unhealthy guilt. It begins by explaining the difference between healthy and unhealthy guilt, and details some of the characteristics of shame. Once a person recognizes the difference, they can do something about it.

The author explores the inner child's role in a person's life, and how the joy of the inner child has become suppressed through shame. Using questions, exercises and meditations, the reader learns to free their inner child from the bonds of shame. Ms. Borysenko also addresses the subject of forgiveness, stating that we forgive the person but not the offense.

This is a book of self-discovery and personal growth, that clarified for me how toxic shame can be. As we learn to love ourselves, letting go of the punishment that shame brings us, then we are able to move forward in our spiritual evolution.

To read more about it, click on Guilt Is the Teacher, Love Is the Lesson: A Book to Heal You, Heart and Soul.

December 2003
Volume 4, Issue 6

*** Contents ***

Welcome
Feature Article
Affirmation
Question and Answer
Recommended Reading

*** Welcome ***

My tobacco-cessation class just ended and was very successful. It turned out to be a large class, and almost all of the participants are committed to being tobacco-free. The place I hold it just remodeled their conference room to be bigger, which is a good thing, because the old room wouldn't have been big enough for the class. So it was good timing. My next series of classes begins at the end of January.

As we enter a holiday season for many people, I hope that this time is one of peace and joy for you. Happy Holidays!

*** Feature Article ***

* Acknowledging Your Emotions Empowers You *
by
Linda-Ann Stewart

Positive thinking is a powerful way to improve your life. Choosing to focus on the positive, and placing your attention where you want your life to go, deliberately gives your mind instructions on what to do. Even in depression, a thought precedes the mood, and someone with this condition can many times elevate their mood by choosing to focus on something more upbeat. However, there are times when positive thinking masks a deeper issue that actually needs to be addressed.

Many people in the Human Potential Movement label emotions either "positive" or "negative." Peace, joy and harmony are "good" feelings, and sadness, anger or fear are "bad." But emotions are neither good nor bad, they're just energy. John Bradshaw in "The Family: A Revolutionary Way of Self-Discovery" calls emotions "energy in motion" or "e-motion." It doesn't matter whether you get angry and yell out an affirmation or get peaceful, feel its truth and say it. A powerful emotion gets the creative mind's attention and this is what manifests the statement.

But if there is a persistent feeling of anxiety, sadness, guilt, anger, or some other uncomfortable emotion that doesn't go away, it needs to be addressed. Some part of you is trying to get your attention, and the more you push it away, try to numb it, or suppress it, the more energy it'll gather. Difficult emotions don't necessarily need to be acted on, or wallowed in, but they do need to be recognized and acknowledged.

Sometimes all that's needed is to state "I'm angry," or "I'm sad" and identify why. Then you can make a decision as to the best thing to do. But if you try to hold it in, that energy has to go somewhere. If you don't recognize it, it'll find a way to get your attention. I knew someone who wouldn't allow himself to feel angry, and everytime he did, he'd hurt himself somehow. If he'd just acknowledged it, he wouldn't have needed to punish himself for getting mad.

For instance, if someone you love has left or died, it's appropriate to grieve. However, if you don't deal with all the steps of grief, you'll get stuck there, and the sadness and loss will persist for years. I've known people who kept themselves too busy to be sad, and as a result, they never healed.

In the 12-step programs, it's said that to "Heal it, you need to feel it." Stuffing emotions takes energy and mental resources away from day to day living. This creates stress, and we all know that stress eventually impacts the body by creating illness. Tense muscles, high blood pressure, intestinal problems, and many more ailments can be directly linked to stress. Persistent, uncomfortable emotions generally have a root somewhere in the past. Traumatic events or growing up in a hostile environment takes its toll on the psyche.

One way to deal with a stressful event is to write about the feelings and experiences, like you would in journaling. Research has shown that journaling about a trauma helps the survivor put it into perspective and move on. However, if writing about your emotions upsets you even more or you feel overwhelmed by the thought of confronting your emotions, get some help. Find a therapist that you feel comfortable with, and face your feelings with his/her assistance.

There's an old saying, "What we resist, persists." Making uncomfortable emotions "wrong" just gives them more energy and makes them endure. By acknowledging them, you're accepting yourself more. This allows you to have more control over your life, instead of the emotions pulling your strings. Dealing with your emotions gives more power to positive thinking because you're not being distracted by some part of you trying to get your attention. And once you're no longer fighting yourself, that energy can now be channeled into creating the life you deserve.

copyright (c) 2003 Linda Ann Stewart

*** Affirmation ***

I realize my emotions are simply energy, neither good nor bad. Some part of me is simply trying to get my attention. I give myself permission to recognize how I feel, without shaming myself for feeling the way I do. Once I acknowledge my feelings, I am Divinely guided as to how to handle them. If I need help, I seek it out. As I accept all of myself more, I have more energy and power to create the life I deserve.

*** Question and Answer ***

Question: If I find it hard to clearly visualize my goal, does that mean it won't manifest?

Answer: The term "visualization" or "imagery" tends to mislead people. So many people tell me that "I can't visualize." But visualization doesn't necessarily mean mentally seeing something in glorious technicolor and surround sound. Most of us don't have that kind of spontaneous imagination. We all have a dominant style of imagining. Some people are very visual, like artists. Some are auditory, hearing ideas, like musicians. Others' are sensory, feeling and sensing something going on. We all have all of the senses in our imagination to some extent. For instance, describe an apple. What does it look like, how does it smell, how does it feel, how does it taste, how does it sound when you bite into it, how do your teeth feel when you bite into it? Being able to describe that apple is visualization. With practice, we can strengthen the other senses to make our mental visualization more powerful and it's a good idea to do the practice.

However, being able to mentally see a goal isn't necessary to manifesting it. If you can imagine yourself having it, how it feels to have it, and keep that feeling at the forefront of your mind and no other thought denies or negates it, then you'll likely manifest it. There are some other tips, such as being specific, making sure you're not deciding 'how' it has to happen (let your creative mind figure that out), take any steps towards it that you know to take, etc. Write out what would be in your life with this goal. That also is "visualizing," because you're using your imagination to create the vision of it.

Would you like to submit a question for me to answer in the newsletter? If so write to me at: linda-ann@cedarfire.com

*** New ***

* New Article *

This month's guest article provides an interesting perspective on motivation. You are the author of your life, and your point of view becomes true for you. Read You Are The Most Important Person In Your Life by Russ Stiffler.

*** Recommended Reading ***
"Bradshaw On: The Family"
by John Bradshaw

I refer to this book in this month's article. The author states that emotions are "energy in motion," and valuable to us. This is only one of the many eye-opening concepts in this book. Mainly, this book is written for people who have experienced dysfunctional homes, such as alcoholism or any sort of abuse in their childhood. Its information helps to identify and understand how the dysfunction affected them as children, and how it continues into adulthood. Understanding is the first step to being able to move beyond the self-punitive and self-destructive habits that they may have as adults. But it's also helpful for those who grew up in so-called "functional" homes, since in most homes there's some sort of dysfunction.

The author writes a lot about rules, roles and how they affect an individual. He also addresses the family "trance," saying that we accept ideas in that state and continue to operate with those concepts until the trance is broken.

This book was based on John Bradshaw's television series of the same name. The series was more impromptu and as the author says, "lacked detail." The subtitle of this book is "A Revolutionary Way of Self-Discovery," and that is what it is. It guides the reader into a better understanding of what they're doing and why, and why their life may not be working.

To read more about it, click on Bradshaw On: The Family.

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