This last year has been one of transformation.
Relationships with friends and colleagues changing, new
relationships coming into my life, moving my office,
becoming a facilitator to give classes, and my Mother's
health improving. It's been a rough ride, and there's been
sadness at some of the transitions, but I know that Divine
Right Action is taking place for the Highest Good of all
concerned, even if I can't immediately see it. I hope this
next year is much more harmonious and happy. Here's to a
joyful, peaceful, harmonious and prosperous New Year!
*** Feature Article ***
* How Are You Defining Your Desires? *
by
Linda-Ann Stewart
Are you affirming for a specific result in your life, but
not manifesting it fully? You may experience a partial
manifestation of it, or simply have opportunities that
fall through at the last minute. You could start a job
with the promise of a fast promotion, then later have
your boss renege on the promise. Many things could
be restricting the manifestation of your affirmation,
but one of them could be how you're defining your
good.
Words carry a world of meaning, and one word may
mean something to you and something different to the
person next to you. "Semantics" pertains to the
underlying meaning of a word or phrase. For instance,
does "prosperity" mean wealth to you, working for
someone else, or a flowing of money to and through
you, without leaving much behind in your bank
account? Does "harmony" mean peace at any price to
you, or calmness, ease and serenity?
One time I was taking a class on prosperity and we
were to meditate on what "money" symbolized to us.
As I meditated on it, several words came to mind:
ease, comfort, loss... I mentally said "Whoa," and
examined the reason for the last word. It seemed that
many times when I've benefited from a nice sum of
cash, someone close to me had either left my life or
died. With that association, I could understand why
having money might feel unsafe to my subconscious
mind. I began to talk to my inner mind, and let it
know that loss didn't have to accompany money.
Examine what the words you're affirming mean to
you. Meditate on them. You may be surprised about
the negative connections you have with the terms
you're using. Many of your definitions will be based
on old experiences. Now is the time to create new
ones that serve you in the present day. As you go
deeper into your beliefs, assessing them, you'll begin
to release the limitations on your desires.
copyright (c) 2003 Linda Ann Stewart
*** Affirmation ***
I now allow there to be clarity about why I haven't
manifested my desire. Knowing the Universe has
already given it to me, I recognize that only my
beliefs have restricted its manifestation. As I meditate
on what the words and desires symbolize to me, the
full knowledge of how I've been defining them comes
to the surface of my conscious mind. I know that the
definitions are outdated and give myself permission to
update them to be in alignment with who I am now
and what the Universe wants for me.
*** Question and Answer ***
Question: Do you have any inspiration on how to deal with
fears I've been encountering that have been around for a
long time?
Answer: This may sound surface, but I love what the letters
of FEAR spell out - "False Evidence/Education Appearing
Real." Because fear really is a false concept. Fear is
simply the opposite side of faith. Fear means you're
confident that what you fear will happen. But to deal with
the old ones means you need to access them. Recognize that
they served you in the past, but you've outgrown the need
for them. It can be scary, because they've limited you for
so long that they've gotten to be a comfortable, ratty
old blanket. And they can give you the excuse not to move
forward and risk.
What I've discovered is that when you face your fears,
step out and begin to do what you fear, many times the
fear evaporates because it realizes that you don't need
it anymore. Sometimes, when I do begin to confront and go
beyond the fear, it begins to fight back, because it thinks
I still need it. In that case, I find out what the core
issue is. Once, it was a belief that I had to struggle in
life to avoid others' criticisms.
What is it that you're truly afraid of? Meditate on that,
and see what might come up. You may find that it's
simply a hollow habititual way of thinking. Also, you might
meditate to find out how the fear is serving you now, in
present day. For instance, my need to struggle kept me from
fully expressing myself, and kept me safe. I may have been
criticized, but as long as I was struggling, no one could
complain I wasn't working. And my results, which never
happened, couldn't be criticized. Once I decided that it
was safe to move on, and who cares if someone doesn't like
what I'm doing, the struggle issue let go.
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 ***
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* New Articles *
A treasure map is a powerful way to help to manifest your
desires.
Creating A Treasure Map To Achieve Your Desires explains what a treasure map is, how it can help to reach your goals, and how to create and use one.
Guest writer, Myriam Maytorena, contributes this month's
second article,
Don't Set New Year's Resolutions - Take
Action In The New Year. We've all made resolutions at the
beginning of a year, only to lose enthusiasm within a few
weeks. This year, resolve to take some action in the areas
of your life that you'd like to change.
*** Recommended Reading ***
The Dynamic Laws of Prosperity
by Catherine Ponder
This book is a classic in metaphysical literature. The
author has written many books on abundance, but this is a
primer on prosperity techniques. She covers many aspects of
prosperity, from affirmations to imaging to attitudes to
forgiveness. The first chapter attacks old negative bias'
towards wealth. She continues with basic laws of prosperity,
and addresses many of the issues that prevent manifesting
it.
Even if you don't desire more prosperity, but a fuller,
more satisfying life, this book will help you achieve it.
It's filled with affirmations that direct your mind to
expand to accept more good. For more success, abundance,
and a more harmonious life, this book is a necessary
read.
This has been a busy beginning to a year. My practice has
been bustling, I'm giving tobacco cessation classes, I've
been chaufeurring my mom to physical therapy and doctor's
appointments, and trying to find time for the next phase of
training for the tobacco cessation certification. As I was
writing this month's article, it reminded me that I need to
take care of myself during this time.
*** Feature Article ***
* Loving Others Begins With Yourself *
by
Linda-Ann Stewart
On Valentine's Day, we show our love to the
significant others' in our lives; our husbands, partners,
friends and family. But what do you do to show love
for yourself? What are you doing to take care of
yourself, and of your needs? Many of us have been
taught to ignore our needs, that we're selfish if we
think of ourselves first. However, we've taken this
idea too far and don't think of ourselves at all. Charity
and love begin at home, with you.
A person who does everything for everyone else and
nothing for himself/herself will eventually burn out.
Ultimately, their needs will be taken care of some
way, generally in a way that isn't enjoyable. The inner
self will cry out for attention, beginning with small
warnings, such as a cold, tension, anxiety, or feelings
of being overwhelmed. But if the inner self is ignored,
it will escalate its demands by creating more
discomfort. Many people experience some sort of
health crisis because their inner self needs some
consideration. The health issue could be fibromyalgia,
chronic fatigue syndrome, heart disease, or even
cancer.
When you first begin to attend to your needs, you
may get resistance from the people in your world.
Suddenly, you're not serving them like you've done in
the past. They're being forced to take responsibility
for themselves. They may even call you "selfish."
Before you agree with them, evaluate whether they
have an agenda for this accusation. Do they want you
to do things for them, or fulfill their desires (not their
needs, but their desires)? If so, they're trying to
manipulate you to return to your old ways so that
they're more comfortable.
The challenge is to know how to balance self-love
with other-love. But self-love must come first. That's
the bottom line. Your needs must be your primary
concern, or else you may not be able to do for others.
Your loved ones may even have to take care of you.
However, once you begin to take care of your needs,
you'll actually have more energy, more life, and more
love to give to others because you feel so much better.
copyright (c) 2003 Linda Ann Stewart
*** Affirmation ***
I begin to assess my needs, and know that my needs
are more important than someone else's desires. I take
care of my responsibilities, but I also have a
responsibility to take care of myself. I give myself
permission to attend to my needs, despite any outer
resistance. I remember that I'm the most important
person in my world. I need to fulfill my needs so that
I have more to give to others.
*** Question and Answer ***
Question: With all the self-development and personal growth
methods available, are they all teaching something different?
Answer: Whether it's yoga, est, reiki, hypnotherapy,
affirmations or whatever, all spiritual development
techniques have a similar goal in mind. That goal is to
help you open yourself up to a greater flow of Spirit. It
doesn't matter if it's a physical, mental or emotional
method, it's designed to change your conception of yourself,
your body or your world. That change helps to release
resistance to allowing more of Universal good into your
life. They may go about it differently, and state it
differently, but when you change your perspective, and have
an intention to spiritually evolve, the result is more
joy, peace and harmony.
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 Articles *
For many years, I followed the spiritual practice of
forgiving a person and then forgetting about the incident.
However, I found myself repeating the same mistakes.
Forgiving a person can be the ultimate spiritual practice,
but sometimes forgetting about the incident can be damaging
to oneself. Read
Forgive And Forget?
Guest writer, Lorraine Aho, contributes this month's second
article in honor of Valentine's Day. Communication is the
first step to create romance in your love life. This
article describes some great ways to bring more romance
into your relationship. Read The Art Of Romance.
*** Recommended Reading ***
Diets Don't Work
by Bob Schwartz
This book is designed to teach you to think like a thin
person. It's a combination of information and workbook to
help you discover when and how your thought patterns and
eating habits have made you overweight. And it then gives
you a new way to think about food, and techniques to use to
act like a thin person.
I discovered this book in the mid-eighties, and it took
me two years to finish it. The author warns that there
will be a battle between the part of you that's made you
overweight and the thin person inside you. In reading this
book, I discovered when I was inclined to overeat and why.
With this book, I began to change my behaviors and thinking
about food, and began to reduce weight. It is a process,
and you have to be willing to make some difficult changes,
like leaving food on your plate, not overeating, and other
things that we've been programmed to do. I use many of the
things this book taught me when I have a client who wants
to reduce weight.
If you want to reduce weight, and keep it off permanently,
you have to change your attitudes towards yourself and
towards food. This book points you in that direction, and
helps to uncover the thin person that resides within you.
February was a sad month. A year ago, a good friend and my
office-mate had surgery that left him brain-injured. I'd
been visiting him almost every week since he came home in
May. In the first few months, he began to improve, but over
the summer he'd regressed to the point of not being able to
communicate or do hardly anything for himself.
A Viet Nam veteran, he'd been exposed to Agent Orange, and
as a result, had tumors that attached to his organs. The
surgery last year was for one of these, but he had another
tumor that continued to grow. The Veteran's Administration
refused to do surgery on it due to his impaired condition.
My friend died on February 15. Although I know that he's
free from the frustration of his physical body and much
happier now, I still miss his humor, his compassion, his
wisdom, and much more.
*** Feature Article ***
* Fear Is A Self-Fulfilling Prophecy *
by
Linda-Ann Stewart
A friend once said to me, "I've come to the conclusion
that all problems with prosperity have to do with
fear." When we fear we're not going to get enough
money, we're putting our energy into fear, and just
creating more to be afraid of. Wherever we put our
attention, we get more of what we're focused on.
"Energy flows where our attention goes." Our minds
are like that. Fear becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
When we fear that we won't be able to meet our bills,
that's what tends to happen. If we feel we don't
deserve more, or we're afraid of the consequences if
we do receive more than we consider our due, then
we won't receive more than we currently have. A
person out of work may be scared they won't find
another job, and that's what they'll experience. No
matter how much we want something, if we're in fear,
then we won't receive what we consciously desire.
We're filling our minds with the terrifying images of
"what if...?" and will get what we're focusing on.
When we're afraid, the subconscious mind thinks that
the image we conjure up is the goal. Since the
subconscious is very literal and responds strongest to
feelings, it listens to what we feel. What our rational
mind consciously desires pales into insignificance
against the power of the emotions. Our dominant idea
is not what we want, but what we're afraid of
happening. When the conscious mind is focused on
fear, that's what the subconscious thinks we want, so
it gives us more of that to fear.
Since your subconscious mind can only take what the
conscious mind feeds it, then focus on what you want.
The subconscious mind, which is connected to
Universal Mind, can be very creative in manifesting
your desires. Whenever you begin to doubt, remind
yourself that you may not know how to get what you
want, but your subconscious mind has all the
knowledge it needs to create it. By keeping your mind
focused on your goal, taking steps towards it and
knowing that each step brings you closer to it, you
will achieve what it is you desire.
copyright (c) 2003 Linda Ann Stewart
*** Affirmation ***
I turn my back on fear, knowing that it has no power
other than what I give it. By filling my mind with the
images of what I want, I communicate my desires to
my subconscious mind. Using all the power and
knowledge of the Universe, my subconscious knows
how to create what it is that I want. Even if I can't
conceive of how it can manifest, I know that my
creative mind knows how to accomplish it.
*** Question and Answer ***
Question: While an affirmation is beginning to manifest, why
is it that you'll get some mis-messages or dead ends as if
your creative mind is trying out different situations as it
works to manifest what you want?
Answer: Many people think that if an affirmation doesn't
manifest completely, it means that something is wrong.
That's not necessarily true. Many times, you just have to
keep on keeping on with the affirmation and stay focused.
If you change your desire, then it confuses the
subconscious, which then has to focus its energy on the
new idea. Or if you vacillate back and forth between two
desires, the subconscious begins to feel like its in a
ping-pong match. Most people have done this, including me.
Also, we tend to then criticize ourselves and the
subconscious for not having "gotten it right" (At least,
I have), which then tells the inner mind to not "get it
right." I now call the part-manifestation "an indication."
To me, it indicates that the affirmation is working, but
the subconscious just hasn't gotten it quite right and
needs a little more time, and maybe a little more direction
or specificity.
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 Articles *
When you react to a situation, you're acting automatically
out of habit and fear. But you can now choose to respond in
a more positive way that brings the results you want. This
article includes directions on how to use visualization to
change your behavior and an affirmation.
Read
Are You Reacting Or Responding?
Guest writer, Asoka Selvarajah, Ph.D., contributes this
month's second article,
On Creating Excellence No Matter What. Compelling reasons why it's imperative to do
your best even in situations where you're being
unappreciated or even exploited.
*** Recommended Reading ***
by Lorna Stewart
"Embracing Your Inner Critic: Turning Self-Criticism into
a Creative Asset"
by Hal Stone and Sidra Stone
I found this book to be eye opening. The authors urge
us to become aware of that inner voice that constantly
criticizes us for everything we do -- or do not do.
This voice will even bring up things from the distant
past, for instance, "Why didn't you write and thank Aunt
Bertha for the birthday card?" Never mind that the card
was sent 63 years ago and that it -- and Aunt Bertha--
have been dust for fifty-five of them. Once we become
aware of the voice and its messages we can begin to take
steps to change the messages.
The key to doing this is to recognize that the frantic
criticism is, in reality, a frantic call for help!
Help in handling a situation that has gotten out of
hand. The Inner Critic is frightened! By finding out
what is threatening it and offering support in dealing
with the situation you can enlist its help on finding
out just what issues need to be addressed -- and then
addressing them. The big difference is that now you
must take responsibility for solving the problems. In
other words you must move from the passive to the
active role.
It is an excellent book...not an easy read because it
is jam packed with new concepts. But stick with it. I
think you will be well rewarded.
Jeff and I went to the Renaissance Festival in March. I
realized it was the first time in a year that I've really
done anything fun for an entire weekend. We had good
weather and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
I'm praying for everyone touched by the war in Iraq,
including every leader of every country. I'm praying that
they are all being Divinely Guided and that something good
comes out of this for everyone involved.
*** Feature Article ***
* Let Go And Manifest *
by
Linda-Ann Stewart
When I was a little girl, my mother made me Raggedy
Ann and Andy dolls. I loved those dolls so much that
I took them with me everywhere, and wouldn't let
them out of my sight. So much handling, however,
was hard on them. They needed to be washed
periodically, and have their torn legs repaired.
However, I wouldn't let go of them for their necessary
upkeep.
Many times, when we have a valued goal, a dream, or
feel desperate for a positive change, we hold that
desire close to us as I did with my dolls. It is so dear
to our heart that we don't let go of it to allow the
Universe and the subconscious mind to work on it. If
we can't release our desire to the Universe, then it
can't return to us fulfilled. We find it easier to worry
over it and try to figure out how we can fix it. We
don't trust the Universe or our subconscious mind to
accomplish it. We think we know the best way to do
it, but all we're doing is getting in the way.
I think that this stage of manifestation is the most
difficult. At least, it has been for me. We may know
what we want, know we deserve it, know that the
Universe wants it for us, but to then have confidence
that it will be made manifest sometimes feels like
stepping off a cliff. But as long as we hold onto it,
and fear that it won't be fulfilled, the Universe and the
subconscious can't bring their power and resources
forth to discover that right way to bring it into reality.
My mom had to wait until I was sleeping, and slip my
dolls away from me to wash or fix them, then slip
them back before I awoke. I always got my Raggedy
Ann and Andy back, better than before. So put your
mind at rest about your goal. Get out of the way and
let the Universe and your creative mind find the best
way to manifest your dream.
copyright (c) 2003 Linda Ann Stewart
*** Affirmation ***
I know what I want, know I deserve it, and know that
the Universe wants it for me. The Universe is waiting
for me to release my goal into Its keeping, so It can
bring all of Its Infinite wisdom and resources to
manifest it. I get out of the way. Even though I don't
know how to make my desire manifest, the Universe
and my creative mind have everything they need to do
so.
*** Question and Answer ***
Question: For how many days, and how many times a day,
should you repeat an affirmation?
Answer: You should repeat an affirmation (preferably out
loud) for at least five minutes every day, and preferably
fifteen minutes a day, for it to begin to impress your
subconscious mind. And you should also repeat it whenever
you catch yourself thinking negatively about the situation.
You should continue until you see results. It may
take as little as a week or as much as several months to
change your old thinking. But you should also have faith
that your affirmation is making the changes necessary to
manifest your desire. You may not be able to envision
how it can happen, but have faith that the Universe and
your subconscious have that information.
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 ***
* President Bush's Consciousness *
Hal and Sidra Stone, psychotherapists, wrote an "Open Letter
to President Bush," addressing some of their concerns about
the polarization of the world about the war in Iraq. They
draw upon their backgrounds to explain how and why the
polarization is happening, from a consciousness standpoint,
and what we can all do to begin to neutralize it. A friend
of mine sent this to me by email, and I thought it was
interesting enough to include a link to it in this
newsletter. If you want to read the entire letter,
go to
President Bush's Consciousness
or follow the link from their homepage, www.delos-inc.com/, to the letter.
* New Article *
Last year, my Mother had breast cancer. I decided to bless
the situation and know that something good came from it.
Something wonderful did happen. When you bless an
apparently negative situation, you give direction to the
Universe to find something good in it. Read Bless The Situation.
The guest article this month is by Robert Elias Najemy. The
mind is the molder of our personal and communal world.
There are four basic ways in which we create our reality,
and changing our attitude to a positive one can change our
experience. Read
Create Happiness With A Positive Life Outlook.
*** Recommended Reading ***
The Perfect Power Within You
by Jack and Cornelia Addingtion
This book is a ten week course to transform your
consciousness. The author had developed this as a Home
Study Course, and after the chaplain at Folsom Prison asked
for some materials, sent the lessons to the prison. The
inmates enthusiastically embraced the teachings. When the
men who had taken the course left prison, they did not
return. They had discovered the Perfect Power within, and
learned how to use it.
Each week begins with a chapter explaining an aspect of
the Infinite and Its laws. At the end of each chapter
are affirmations for each day of the week. The chapters
cover subjects such as: Discovering the Perfect Power
Within You, How The Law Works For You, The Key To The
Perfect Power Within, and more. It addresses choosing a
new life, claiming your good, healing, how to manifest,
how to use the Perfect Power, and love. It is a wonderful
primer for how the conscious, subconscious, and
superconscious minds work. I went through this course
twice about a decade ago, and had a significant
improvement in my consciousness.
This course takes discipline and commitment, but if you
want your life to be changed in the next seventy days,
then this book is for you.
On Easter, Jeff and I hiked to the base of one of the
mountains near where I live, Cathedral Rock in Sedona. I've
lived near it for twenty years, and it was the first time
I've been that close. We found a cleft in the rock where
a massive waterfall must flow during rain, and hiked up
that. It was a wonderful way to celebrate a spring holiday.
I've started presenting my second session of classes for
tobacco-cessation. It's not a big class, but I think
they're dedicated. The classes last for seven weeks. It's
rewarding to help people improve their health by becoming
nonsmokers.
*** Feature Article ***
* The Truth About Divine Discontentment *
by
Linda-Ann Stewart
Have you ever been in a mood where nothing felt
right? You were on edge, and weren't satisfied with
anything? Bored, impatient, and unhappy with
everything? You may want to kick the door or run
away. This mood might last for days or weeks or
months. It's like something is about to happen, but
never does. Many times, this is a symptom of Divine
discontent. The Universe is trying to propel you
forward, but something in you is resisting the next
step of your spiritual evolution.
This discomfort could be caused by an inner conflict
between an old limiting idea and what we consciously
want and/or what the Universe wants for us.
Sometimes, we turn the anger outward, toward the
conditions we wish to change. It's not the condition's
fault, it's simply a reflection of our inner concept. But
we've identified with those ideas so long that they've
gotten entrenched and we don't want to let them go.
An immovable object (the old thought pattern that
created the condition) meets an irresistible force (the
Universe) and we feel caught in the middle.
During the period of Divine discontent, something
greater is being born into your consciousness. You
may think that you're ready and willing for the
change, whatever it may be. But if it hasn't happened
already, something within you is restricting it. When
you feel this discontent, meditate on what it is that
you're resisting, afraid of changing, or what you're
holding onto so hard. You may find you already know
what it is.
Divine discontentment is a process we all periodically
go through during our spiritual growth. Recognizing
the signs and knowing what to do can make the
discomfort easier to bear. And rather than avoiding
the dissatisfaction, meditate on it to bring the cause to
consciousness. In so doing, you release some of that
stuck energy, and allow the good of the Universe to
flow.
copyright (c) 2003 Linda Ann Stewart
*** Affirmation ***
Knowing that the Universe wants a greater experience
of good for me, I willingly embrace that good. I face
my dissatisfaction with life, and allow the cause of
my discontentment to rise into my conscious mind. I
easily release any idea that limits the next step of my
Spiritual evolution. I trust that what is unfolding in
my life is better than what I've been experiencing. I
open myself to whatever change the Universe wants
from me.
*** Question and Answer ***
Question: Why do I prosper for awhile, then relapse?
Answer: There could be many things getting in the way of
your consistent prospering. If you've been using
affirmations and getting results, see if you've eased up on
their use. It could be that you have some old idea about
having to struggle or have challenges. Some idea you picked
up in childhood could be responsible. Meditating on what
old thought patterns are blocking you would be advisable.
I've done a lot of internal work myself on this issue. When
I stay centered, and don't get into fear, my prosperity
flows. Also, remember to view the Universe as your Source
of supply, not the channels it comes through. Considering
the channels (such as your job) as the Source is a great
way of blocking your prosperity.
I find that affirmations are a wonderful way of breaking
through blocks. And affirmations are simply suggestions
you give yourself while in a waking or meditative (hypnotic)
state. Find some affirmations for prosperity that
resonate with you, and repeat them aloud for fifteen
minutes each and every day, even after you begin to see
results.
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 Articles *
Being an optimist is actually healthier, mentally and
physically, than being a pessimist. Contrary to popular
opinion, optimists are not born, they're trained to be that
way. Learn how to train yourself to become a healthier
person by becoming an optimist. Read Is Your Glass Half-Full Or Half-Empty?.
Surprisingly perhaps, there are just as many people
with a fear of success, as there are those with the
"standard" fear of failure. This article addresses the
most common ways we sabotage our success and how we can
change our direction to succeed. Read Sabotaging Your Own Success by Nisandeh Neta.
*** Recommended Reading ***
"The Verbally Abusive Relationship: How To Recognize It And
How To Respond"
by Patricia Evans
Years ago, this book leaped off of the library shelf at me.
It was at a time in which I was just recognizing that some
people in my life were belittling and demeaning me, and
that type of behavior wasn't beneficial. It seems so simple
now, but at the time this was a new concept for me. The
information in this book was an eye-opener to me. The
author explains how a person becomes a verbal abuser and
why they do it.
I thought that if I could just explain myself better,
the person would understand and not be so angry and mean.
I learned that they didn't want to understand. A verbal
abuser feels so bad about themselves that they put others
down to make themselves feel better, more powerful. And
nothing I said or did was going to change their behavior.
This book details the different types of verbal abuse, how
to recognize if you're being abused, and what to do about
it. The author describes the signals you might physically
and mentally experience when you're being verbally abused.
As children, we're told that "Sticks and stones will break
your bones, but words will never hurt me." But words do
hurt, deeper and longer sometimes than physical abuse. My
hurt feelings were always invalidated, and I went along
with that, until I read this book. This book is so
valuable to me that I don't let it out of my possession.
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.
* 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.
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.
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.
*** 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.
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.
*** 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.