summer2010

positive life summer 2010

summer 2010 priceless WHAT iF eVerYONe TOlD THe TruTH? Lifting the Lid on Yourself ruDe HeAlTH preVieW Health Store Owners have their say THe pOWer OF meNsTruATiON Embracing your Cycle summer Vibes Who, What, When and Where

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4 7 8 10 12 15 16 18 20 24 26 28 31 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 Contents Summer Vibes - Amazing on a Sunny Afternoon Positive Personality - Mal Convery Spirituality and the City - Your Hearts Sing Happiness - Think Happy Astrology - Here comes the Sun Positive Beauty - Sole Care for Summer Positively Newsworthy - Some News is Good News Positive Power - The Laws of Luxury Living The Power of Menstruation - Embracing your Cycle Rude Health Preview - Exclusive Insights What if Everyone told The Truth? - Lifting the Lid Body & Soul - Summer Celebrations The Good Life 2.0 - Good Grief Metamorphosis - Reconnecting with Source When Spirit Calls - A Journey into Reiki A Slim Victory - System Slim Spagyric Essences - Remedies for the new Era CNM - Oriental Medicine for Emotions Ayurveda - for the Season The Wonder of Vegetables - Growing and Eating Summer Recipes - Hey, Good Looking… 22 Publisher PC Media paul@positivelife.ie Editorial Patrick Bridgeman patrick@positivelife.ie Design Simon O’Connor simon@postivelife.ie Advertising Paul Congdon paul@positivelife.ie 0861579518 Please use the information provided in this publication as a recommendation only to better mental and physical health. We strongly advise you to consult your doctor regarding health concerns that you may have. The views expressed by contributors and advisors do not necessarily represent the views of the publication’s staff. Printed, published, packaged and distributed in Ireland. www.positivelife.ie Beginning Here Now... TIME. SUMMERTIME. ANYTIME. It feels like it’s moving faster than ever. It’s sped up; that’s the word on the street. A minute ago it was Christmas, now it’s Summer. SCIENTISTS back me up here by saying that the Earth had a pulse of 7.8 cycles per second, kinda like a heartbeat, and, since 1980, it has sped up to 12 cycles per second. AS we approach 2012, it’s increasing to 13 and, at this point, scientists feel the Earth may turn on its axis and begin to rotate the other way. MATERIALISM and greed are on their way out to be replaced by Spirituality and Love. Sound familiar? A new dimension, a Fourth dimension, beckons. The Age of Aquarius. NICE. Meanwhile, take the time, if you will, to savour our Summer issue, and Summer itself: barbecues, swimming, sunbathing, loving, laughing, glass of vino, picnics, holidays, whatever floats your boat. Autumn will be here in NO TIME. PAUL CONGDON, Publisher “Time is whaT prevenTs everyThing from happening aT once.” John archibald wheeler

Summer Solstice Celebrations There will be a lot of events happening around the country to celebrate the Summer Solstice on June 21st this year. Here are a se- lection: Lough Gur Summer Solstice family day by the lake. Live music with Luka Bloom and the Roaring Forties. Sunday June 20th 2 - 4 pm, €5 adults, children free. www.loughgur.com How about spending the Summer Solstice hiking up Carrauntouhil at midnight and getting to the top for the Summer Solstice sunrise! www.bootcampireland.com Pagan Federation Ireland’s Summer Sols- tice Gathering will take place in Glengarra Woods, near Cahir, Co. Tipperary on Satur- day 19th June, to Sunday 20th June. http://paganfederationireland.webs.com Enlightening Events The breaTh of life - women’s workshop June 19th, July 3rd & July 17th The Breath of Life is a workshop for women of all ages. You will discover how to breathe the magic of Woman back into every cell of your being. It is an opportunity to come home to yourself and embody your full ra- diance. The workshop helps you expand your capacity for beauty, radiance, magic, desire, pleasure and, of course, joy and fun! The Yoga Village, 4b St. Patrick’s Road, Dalkey, County Dublin, €55 per workshop Bookings: 0876940413 or 0876920051 The auThenTic warrior - men’s workshop June 26th, July 10th & July 24th This workshop is for men who are searching for a sense of power and purpose in their lives. Using experiential, step by step exer- cises, and teachings, you will find the practi- cal skills and tools to find a way through to your own Life Purpose and Personal Power. The Yoga Village, 4b St. Patrick’s Road, Dalkey, County Dublin, €55 per workshop Bookings: 0862505200 or 0876920051 rewire your brain July 7th, 7:30 pm, €50, Dublin This talk by author Dr. John Arden will help you to learn healthy habits to enhance your brain’s longevity and to go through the pro- cess of changing your brain so you can chan- ge your life. www.seminars.ie The pracTice of embodied leadership July 8th & 10th, The Burren Join Wendy Palmer, a master practitioner of the art of Embodied Leadership, for this rare opportunity to experience and learn how to develop yourself as a leader or de- veloper of leaders. Contact Chris Chapman on 0872433691 or chris.chapman@ireland.com full 10-day permaculTure design cerTificaTe course August 20th - 29th, Tipperary Permaculture is a “design system based on ecological principles” which provides the organising framework for implementing sus- tainable living. Enjoy this course immersed in the thriving and innovative environment of Cloughjordan’s ecovillage. www.cultivate.ie Super Centres ayurveda cenTre A new Ayurvedic shop has opened up at 26 Lower Stephen’s Street, Dublin 2. Like it’s online counterpart, it stocks Ayurveda Herbal Preparations, Beverages, Natural Cosmetics, Books & CD’s, Aromatherapy, Maharishi Honey and Music, but contains a wider selection of fresh Food & Spices. For more info, phone 014789744 or visit www.ayurveda.ie dublin holisTic cenTre The Dublin Holistic Centre offers a fully comprehensive list of alternative and com- vibes “There shall be eTernal summer in The graTeful hearT.” celia ThaxTer 4

vibes plementary medical care that have been tried and tested for centuries. Their new premises has just opened at 28 South William Street, Dublin 2. www.dublinholisticcentre.com Positive Products ondamed ONDAMED®, like acupuncture, realigns the electromagnetic energy of the patient, but has the advantage of not requiring nee- dles. Also, after a treatment, the patient is not sent home with pills and potions, the practicioners help the patients back to health right then and there. Contact Aine on 0877965070 or visit www.acupuncturegalway.com shirley’s herbal care This range of hand-made skin care products is made with home-grown organic herbs, de- veloped using traditional methods. It is spe- cially designed for everyday use for all peo- ple who care for their skin, especially those with specific requirements such as Psoriasis and Eczema. For more info, visit http://shirleysherbalcare.com/ TuTTi fruTTi wheaTgrass delivery Same day or next day delivery in Dublin on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, for only €10. Call 0877584077 Fun-Filled Venues milk & cookie sTories @ exchange dublin Milk & Cookies is a non-profit storytelling group based in Dublin. A place with tea, cushions, cookies and friends, Milk and Coo- kies isn’t just for writers and performers – it is for anyone who has a tale to tell, or wants to hear a story told well, and to have a warm, relaxed environment to do just that. Exchan- ge Dublin is a new collective arts centre in Temple Bar; a non-alcohol space and events are open to people of all ages. www.milkandcookiestories.com http://exchangedublin.ie/newsite/ achill secreT garden Nestled on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean, Achill Secret Garden is a place where spiri- tuality and sustainability meet. Established in 1870, this breathtakingly beautiful 3 acre space features one of the oldest Cordyline trees in Connaught, an organic fruit and vegetable nursery as well as a boathouse and a marquee. Achill Secret Garden is a must-visit this summer—come experience it through guided tours, workshops and me- ditation. www.achillsecretgarden.com www.facebook.com/achillsecretgarden Beautiful Books Here are a couple of books worth reading during those lazy summer afternoons: The flipside Is there a secret to overcoming adversity and achieving lasting happiness and success? The Flipside explores a simple and inspiring idea; every problem or obstacle in our lives, however big or small, contains an equivalent or greater benefit or opportunity. It is full of life-affirming stories guaranteed to make us change the way we look at adversity. www.findingtheflipside.com who is god? you are In this enlightening book, learn how to create the magical, incredible life that is everyone’s birthright. With clear, simple explanations and astonishing examples, Fiona Fay takes you through the journey of discovery that changed her entire world and she reveals how you can take the same journey. www.fionafay.com Great Giveaways gardening yoga dvd giveaway While making a documentary about growing your own food for RTE, Victoria Mary Clar- ke discovered that most gardeners suffer from lower back pain and stiffness in the knees, shoulders and wrists. Her solution is ‘Gardening Yoga’ - A series of simple, begin- ner-friendly yoga poses designed to alleviate and prevent the aches and pains commonly caused by gardening. The next 10 people to Subscribe to our Magazine online at www.positivelife.ie/subscribe will each receive a copy of her new DVD. For more info, visit www.angelsandyoga.com or email info@angelsandyoga.com or call 0862277528 posiTive vibes e-newsleTTer As well as our seasonal print magazine, we also have a FREE monthly e-newsletter full of positive suggestions for books, films, web- sites, products, events, venues, news and competitions. To add yourself to our mailing list, visit www.positivelife.ie/subscribe Achill Secret Garden

Associati ons: London Dragon Sign Lung Ying Kung Fu Assoc., Hong Kong Dragon Sign Lung Ying Kung Fu Assoc., Guang Zhou Dragon Sign Lung Ying Kung Fu Assoc., Hong Kong North Point Chi Gung Assoc. shaolin lung ying traditional tai chi chi gung shaolin meditation buddha garden lion dance dragon dance buddhist temple (and garden) Shaolin Buddhist Temple, Gilltown,Beauparc,Navan. Near to Newgrange (Bru Na Boinne) interpreti ve centre. Website: www.kungfu.ie email : nick@kungfu.ie Telephone 041 9824732 086 8524817 shaolin.indd 104/06/2010 13:56:33 Eating Disorder Resource Centre of Ireland Suzanne Horgan, Director & Founder Certified Trainer in Practitioner Skills for Eating Disorders and Obesity Do you wish to work with people experiencing eating disorders or people who have food, body or weight issues? The Eating Disorder Resource Centre of Ireland, in affiliation with the National Centre for Eating Disorders (UK), wish to offer you the opportunity to embark on a one year, part time fully accredited Diploma in Practitioner Skills for Eating Disorders. 2010 Course being presented in the Louis Fitzgerald Hotel, Naas Road, Dublin For further information please log on to www.eatingdisorders.ie where you can download a course prospectus and synopsis or alternatively you can contact us at Phone: 01-4953577 Mobile: 087 2056560 Email: info@eatingdisorders.ie Places are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment New to Ireland the Ondamed system, endorsed by Dr James Oschman, PhD is now at Libra Natural Health Herbal Medicine, Diet and detoxification, Acupuncture, Colon hydrotherapy, Osteopathy, Field control therapy, Swedish massage, Counselling, Shiatsu, Craniosacral therapy, N.A.E.T., Reflexology, Reiki, Counselling, Meditation classes www.libranaturalhealth.com

I have vague memories, from when I was young, of hearing things that weren’t there. I went for all of these hearing tests but I knew there was nothing wrong with my ears. I didn’t understand it and, if I went on, my parents would have probably thought I was nuts, so I closed the door to those sounds. Then, about 7 years ago, I began to get messages coming through, which started to happen in a major way about 4 years ago. I could feel spirits in my everyday life and I had some amazing premonitory dreams. Some people who have that natural ability don’t know what to do with it. Other people who have it just don’t want to know about it, and that’s fine. For me, it’s more about self development, because what’s the use (gen- erally) in me going out and telling people, “Oh, I can hear this and I can hear that.”? There are people who would say, “Are you not just making that up?” But if they’re things that make no real sense to you and you know you wouldn’t normally say those things, then you’re on the right track. I have a lovely teacher who said, “When you’re being given these messages, it’s not for you to decide if it should be said or not. Most of the time these things will make no sense whatsoever to you, but perhaps it will really register with the other person.” My parents are fully behind me now. They found it a bit hard in the beginning. As a mother, my Mum obviously supported me. That’s what they are there for. But I don’t know if they fully understood at first. A few years ago, at the Mind Body Spirit expo in Cork, I met a lovely lady who got me into learning IET (Integrated Energy Therapy). I did a treatment on my father at Christmas because he had a really sore back. He said to me, “I’ve nothing to lose, Mal, so go for it.” The day after the first treatment, he came up to me and said, “Mal, I have a real problem with this, because I don’t believe in what you’re doing but I feel much better.” And since then, he’s been fine with it. He knows it works even though he can’t comprehend why. I choose not to take on too many clients because of my other commitments, but I love working on myself and my family and friends. The website was set up by me and my husband. I run it, but the idea came from both of us. I thought it would be lovely to bring people together. I had an idea for a centre to bring people together, but at the time I thought it would be a physical cen- tre. I remember looking into it, but it wasn’t really for us. Then about two years ago, my husband came to me and said, “What about setting up a website?” and I said, “What about some kind of a directory?” We sat down one evening and just let this idea grow: what we wanted, why we wanted to set it up. The logo came to me in a dream. The name came through when I was meditating. Even the sub-motto came to me through meditation. It’s a platform giving people every oppor- tunity, in a multitude of different areas, to learn what practice or therapy would be most beneficial to them in order for them to feel better, in order for them to heal themselves. Sometimes I think to myself, “Did I do this?”, because it’s a big undertaking, espe- cially with a young family, but I’ve definitely come to trust it. And we said we’ll just give it a go, because if it’s meant to be, it will work. We all have free will, but we all have a path in life. If you’re meant to become the next president, it will happen. It might happen in 10 years’ time instead of 1 year’s time because your ‘free will’ will lead you all over the place, but you will still end up where you’re meant to be. I love my job. For more info: www.BcenteredU.ie Interviewed by Patrick Bridgeman “iT connecTed me wiTh spiriT in a way i had never experienced before, and ThaT connecTion has guided me ever since.” In October of last year, Mal Convery officially launched her outstanding online holistic directory, BcenteredU, a labour of love, trust and hope. Here, she recounts her own journey and the slow but steady steps she’s taking along her unique life path. 7 posiTive personaliTyMal Convery

KAI BENHARROCHSchool Pupil I like doing all good stuff. I like helping people. I like playing with people and meeting new people. It’s really fun to meet nice children. It makes me feel kind of secure. When people are down, I like helping them feel happy and making them feel secure themselves. It makes me feel like they’re really happy that I came and helped them. When I’m older, I want to be a Doctor and a Teacher because I think teaching is really good. I want to be a good teacher, not a mean teacher. It’s really bad if you’re a bad teacher because, when you’re shouting at the children, you’re actually shouting at yourself as well. And it’s really bad because if someone shouts at you then you might shout at another person and then another person. If you keep on doing that, you might even upset someone really important to you. The first and most obvious way I’ve found to contact my self is through wor- king with clay, which is what I’m passio- nate about. I am very lucky because I have spent 40 years (this September) working with clay, and to still be in love with it is marvellous. But also, more importantly, to have it totally com- bined… to become my spiritual journey, makes it even better. I suppose when I’m really contacting the real me is when I’m deeply immersed in making… or when I’m talking with some- body and they’re connecting to some of the insights that have been shared with me. And that’s really the real me. www.healy-pottery.com Spirituality LIAM MuRPHYPleasure Guru I feel connected when I’m here, when I’m exploring, when I’m lost, when I’m making money, when I’m creating, when I’m lau- ghing, when I’m chilling at the ‘penthouse’, being with friends, making people laugh, when I’m listening to music, when I’m tra- velling, when I’m in a circle, when I’m getting a hug, when I’m dancing, scoffing ice-cream, running, fighting, when I’m following synchronicity and when I’m following my passion... Pleasure be- gins with our feet on the ground. “whaT does your True self love doing?” GEOFFREY HEALYPotter and the City

9 MIA MuLLARKEYFilm Director I think everything I do connects me with my true self, except I’m not quite sure what my true self is. I am true when I am content and I am true when I am miserable. I have many selves, each as true as the other, Mia the big sister, Mia the artist, Mia the detached observer, and so on, a constant flux. Maybe connecting with my true self through action means fin- ding a medium in which I can express and develop my qualities. Right now that means directing films, before it meant being a psychologist, a teacher, a performer. The beauty of directing for me is that I can tie together all the strands of my character and my history. I get to be the big sister, the artist, the observer, the psychologist, the teacher and the performer. There are many things I love doing. I love the buzz of a trad music session that is really clic- king. Actually, I am writing this the mor- ning after playing in a fantastic session at a music festival in Louisburgh, Co. Mayo. We stopped playing at 5am! It was one of those ses- sions when you just don’t want it to stop! My normal sense of time goes out the window – it is just the buzz of playing this tune or song that matters. I also love when I am working with people who choose authen- ticity and openness over scepticism and guardedness. That is the quality of engagement that leads to insights and breakthrough moments. That, for me, is privileged work! www.phoenixalchemy.com MARTHA STEPIENCommis Chef PETER MOHANFounder & Director of Phoenix Alchemy Ltdand the City Food is always a reason to smile. Having something tasty in your mouth is like looking through a photo album. Memories and emotions are like mixed spices. However, what makes me really satisfied and complete is cooking. Knowing that there are so many associations, so many ways food could be ‘read’, makes the process of creation very special. I could lose myself for hours in the kitchen just playing with tastes, textures and colours of ingredients. Especially when I know the people I’m cooking for. I love to make little pleasures and serve food they will enjoy. I love to exceed their expectations, even if they are not really aware of them. Seeing delighted faces over the table makes all the effort worth it. For me, cooking / eating is a holistic activity which wouldn’t be complete without passion, love, friendship and knowledge around us. Having a happy and stuffed crowd in my kitchen brings me joy and inspiration, which helps me to connect with my ‘true self’.

Scientific evidence shows that happy peo- ple outperform, outlive and find more mea- ning in life than their counterparts. In the last article, we taught you 3 exercises to raise your base level of happiness. In this article, we will show you how people can perform better when they are happy. happy memories In one scientific study, two groups of 4 years olds were asked to put shapes together. One group was asked to spend 30 seconds re- membering “something that happened that made you feel so happy you just wanted to jump up and down” or “you just wanted to sit and smile”. Happy thoughts given by the children were statements like, “I am so happy for my peanut butter jelly sandwich” or “I am so happy for my dog ‘Woof’”. Then they were told, in a neutral voice, to put the shapes together. A second group of four years olds were just told to put the shapes together in a neutral voice. The “happy memory” kids put the shapes together in an average of 50% faster than the other group (Journal of personality and Social Psycho- logy, 1979). What is fascinating about this is that 4 year olds, who have no prejudice with research, outperformed their counter- parts just by thinking of their dog ‘Woof’ or some other random, happy thought. You may think, “Well, yes, but they are 4 year old children”. Well, here is another interes- ting scientific study: revision vs. relaxaTion Two groups of doctors were tested on their ability to make a correct diagnosis of a patient’s condition based on a set of facts and symptoms. The first group was given a half an hour, before the test, to read through journals and textbooks to help them get ready for the test and into a “proper frame of mind”. The other group was given candy (they were not allowed to consume it before the test) and just tal- ked to about non-test related issues. The group of doctors given the candy came to the correct diagnosis on an average of 2 ti- mes faster than the group who “studied” before the test. The conclusion of the re- search indicated that they were twice as fast because they were happy that they received candy, even though they were not allowed to eat it (Medical Decision Making, 1991). genuine vs. fake smiles In a senior class college year book in 1960, re- searchers analysed 141 women for the kind of smile they had. The smile was categorised into one of two groups; a genuine smile and a fake smile. They determined that a genuine smile invol- ves contraction of the muscles that raise the corners of the mouth and causes a crinkle around the eyes (like crow’s feet, and diffi- cult to control volun- tarily). A fake smile only had the corners of the mouth raised. All the women but three smiled, and half of the smiles were deemed fake. Looks had nothing to do with it. These women were contacted at 3 different times after the year book picture; when they were approximately 27, 43 and 52 years old. When interviewed they were asked about marriage and life satisfaction. The women categorised with a genuine smile were more likely to be well-wed and more happy than those that had the fake smiles (Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 2001). Some questio- ned that maybe the better looking women had the genuine smile. After they went back and analyzed the photos, they determined that looks had nothing to do with marriage and life satisfaction. In conclusion, happy people out-perform those who are less happy. Happy people also have a better chance at staying married and experiencing overall life satisfaction than less happy people. You can raise your base level of happiness (see Part 1) by focusing on what you are grateful for and by journaling. Our brains are hard wired to be more successful when we are happier. In the next part, we will show you that hap- piness (as opposed to genetics) has a lot to do with longevity. George Esser and his wife Janet have been exploring Alternative Health for 30 years and together they set up the company Calm Natural Limited. For more info, visit www.calmnatural.co.uk 10 By George Esser “The women caTegorised wiTh a genuine smile were more likely To be well-wed and more happy Than Those ThaT had The fake smiles” happiness is a key To a posiTive life parT 2Think Happy Thoughts

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here comes The sun Like the ever popular Beatles song, we as- sociate the summer months with the Sun entering its warmest and brightest phase, re- minding us of the crucial importance of this shining white star for our very existence on planet Earth. In recognition of its value and centrality in our world, major civilizations such as the Aztec and Inca revered the Sun as a supreme force and deity. Here in Ire- land, the ancient burial mound at Newgran- ge, created to allow the winter solstice rays to shine through, is a reminder of our deep connection with the powerful regenerative light of this bright star. Astrologically, the position of the Sun in our birth chart is of fundamental importance, describing core characteristics that can assist us in re-connecting with our authentic soul self in this lifetime.1 In Medical Astrology, the Sun is associated with our vitality and heart, which in ancient times was deemed to be the seat of the soul. On a psychologi- cal level, the Sun works in tandem with its sister luminary: the Moon. By encouraging our internal progressive urge to separate and individuate, it enables growth and creative expression, counteracting the regressive pull of the Moon to remain in the comforting safe womb-like waters of the known and familiar. Archetypically, we are in the realms of Father and the Animus.2 Over the next few editions of Positive Life, I am going to explore the underlying Margaret Gray is a professional Psychological Astrologer with a consulting practice in Ireland, Hawaii and California. She teaches internationally, both independently and on behalf of the CPA worldwide. Margaret is the book reviewer for the ISAR journal and a member of the APAI, ISAR and the Ast. Ass. UK. Whilst in Ireland, Margaret is based at Oscailt integrative Health Centre www.oscailt.com Astrology By Margaret Gray 12 2010 – THE WAVES ARE HERE We often use the word “waves” to describe movement, particularly that of sound, light, heat, emotion and water. For those of us who love the ocean, waves are an unending source of pleasure. Staring in trance-like fashion at breakers rolling in, our body reso- nates at a deep primal level with the motion of the water, knowing instinctively that even the calmest, gentlest wave could become a tsunami of immense life-taking force in a matter of minutes. Similarly, we live with the daily transits/ movements of the planets in the sky, aware on some level that their energies affect us individually and collectively, yet relatively undisturbed by their ebb and fl ow until they either impinge on our birth chart or come into contact with each other, creating powerful waves which impact the collective as a whole. The summer of 2010 is a peak time for these compelling waves which have been building since 2008 and will continue to 2012 and beyond. The question is not how to stop the waves, or how to avoid them, paralyzed in fear of their strength, but rather how best to surf them as individuals and as a collective in a conscious, aware manner as we face major crosscurrents on our evolutio- nary journey towards 2012 and beyond. In the past four editions, I have described the nature of the main planetary confi gura- tions which are active in the sky between 2008 and 2012. Now I am going to summa- rize the main themes of the transits in 2010 with a focus on Ireland, keeping in mind that the movements of the planets, like the ocean waves, often overlap each other, making it almost impossible to separate the effect of one from the other. 1 The weighing of collective structures on the Scales of Justice – revisiting 1982 February 1982 was the starting point for a planetary cycle, which at its broadest is concerned with rebalancing fairness, justice, ideals and ethics in our individual and col- lective lives. The planets Saturn (the god Cronos) and Pluto (the god Hades) joined forces at this time in the sign of Libra, ini- tiating a dance that is now embarking on its Astrology By Margaret Gray Copyright 2010 “YOU CAN’T STOP THE WAVES, BUT YOU CAN LEARN TO SURF.” JON KABAT-ZINN “A WAVE IN PHYSICS = A PERIODIC MOTION OR DISTURBANCE CONSISTING OF A SERIES OF MANY OSCILLATIONS THAT PROPAGATE THROUGH A MEDIUM OR SPACE, AS IN THE PROPAGATION OF SOUND OR LIGHT.” WEBSTER’S DICTIONARY Due to the nature of the Transits of 2010, like many other astrologers I have set up a blog to maintain an open dialogue during the year.For more details, visit www.astrologypsychological.com or email Margaret@astrologypsychological.com 12 PL_spring_10_d1.indd 1208/03/2010 10:01:26

astrological, psychological and spiritual meanings of the Sun in each sign of the zodiac, suggesting ways you might express the potential of this energy as brightly as possible in every aspect of your life. In fully expressing your individual Solar light at its highest level, you allow others to fully shine too, thereby enhancing life on this planet for all of us. It also offers you the possibility of manifesting your soul purpose and com- pleting what you undertook to do in this lifetime. whaT deTermines your sun sign? Viewed from our position on planet Earth, the zodiac signs describe the arrangement of prominent constellations of fixed stars which line the ecliptic.3 As far back as Ba- bylonian times, the patterns of the fixed stars on the 360° circle of the ecliptic were named after the shapes they appeared to make in the sky – mostly animals. Each of these shapes / signs was allocated 30°. Hence, your Sun sign is deemed to fall between 0° and 29° of a particular sign.4 your sun sign by elemenT The first step in exploring your individual Sun sign is the macro level of the “Element” it is in. There are four elements: Fire, Earth, Air and Water, and each of the 12 signs of the Zodiac belongs to one of the four with three signs in each. Aries, Leo and Sagitta- rius are in Fire. Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn are in Earth. Gemini, Libra and Aquarius are in Air, and Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces are in Water. The sign your Sun is in determines the element of your Sun, giving it nume- rous overall characteristics which are shared to some degree with the other two signs in your element. These characteristics can be more easily understood by observing the elements in nature. When I lived in LA for a year, I remember standing on my balcony watching in mesmerized shock at the smoke from the fires that were swooping through southern California; awestruck by the heat, speed and seemingly uncontrollable unpredictability of this dramatic demonstration of excess fire. This was in stark contrast to my experience of sitting in Ireland by a warm coal fire, fee- ling a sense of hypnotic comfort as I watched the flames flicker happily and safely in the contained solidness of the fireplace. Sun in Fire If you were born with your Sun in the ele- ment of Fire (Aries, Leo or Sagittarius), your essential nature is likely to contain several of the following characteristics: courage, wilful- ness, impatience, impulsivity, honesty, war- mth, excitement and outspokenness. You are also more likely to have a tendency to be adventurous, easily bored, action-oriented, direct, freedom-loving, outspoken, trus- ting, intuitive, enterprising, romantic and a natural leader and pioneer. The essence of Fire is to be future-oriented, and hence, Hope is a necessity. When shining at its bri- ghtest, the Sun in Fire can be inspirational, enthusiastic and immensely courageous and creative. If the Sun in Fire is not owning its own power and inner authority, it will not be able to shine fully and instead may appear to become a passive victim, seething inter- nally in frustration and perceived impotency, like a volcano ready to erupt. The eruption, when it comes, can be explosive; demanding attention at all costs and burning all that lies in its path. Sun in Earth If you were born with your Sun in the ele- ment of Earth (Taurus, Virgo or Capricorn), your essential nature will have different characteristics to Fire, including a natural tendency to be grounded, stable, practi- cal, efficient, patient, humble, productive, realistic, contained, disciplined, enduring, persevering, cautious and dependable. The natural tendency of earth is to be in the concrete reality of the here and now, relying on the security of the familiar versus the anxiety of the unknown. When shining at its brightest, the Sun in Earth, with its innate knowledge of the needs and cycles of nature, ensures that we nurture and care for the human form we have incarnated in and our home here on planet earth. If the Sun in Earth is not grounded in its power, it can become rigid and inflexible, preventing and blocking rather than supporting growth in self and others. Sun in Air If you were born with your Sun in the ele- ment of Air (Gemini, Libra or Aquarius), your essential nature is likely to include several of the following: a rational ap- proach to life, a strong emphasis on fair- ness and equality, social tolerance, expe- rimentation, discovery and the seeking of ethics and justice. The Sun in Air thrives on communication and the exchange of ideas, attempting at all times to find and understand new systems and patterns in the universe. Like the element of Fire, Air is changeable and fast, thriving on all that is new, enjoying the potential of the future rather than the mundaneness of the present. When shining at its brightest, the Sun in Air attempts, like Prometheus, to evolve humanity beyond our basic instincts through the powerful use of our mind. If the Sun in Air is not centered, it can forget that we are made up of body and spirit as well as mind and that all three need to de- velop in tandem to allow for evolution to take place in a balanced manner. Sun in Water If you were born with your Sun in the ele- ment of Water (Cancer, Scorpio or Pisces), your essential nature is likely to contain se- veral of the following: sensitivity, emotional courage, loyalty, caution, tenacity, empathy, fluid boundaries and emotional depths. The Sun in Water seeks connection of an emo- tional kind, communicating primarily on a non-verbal level. This is the deep watery realm inhabited by mermaids where the lo- gical mind has little use. When shining at its brightest, the Sun in Water is immensely creative, imaginative and spiritual, flowing easily in a compassionate manner amidst the complex preverbal realms of our emo- tions. When the Sun in water disconnects from its inner power, it can swing between flooding and freezing, emotionally invading or detaching from anything and anyone near it. In an attempt to re-connect with the spirit and creativity it seeks, the Sun in Water can resort to using mere substances as an unsatisfactory substitute. In the next edition, our Solar exploration will take us through your individual Sun Sign. 1 I use the term “soul” as a spiritual rather than a religious term, i.e. as that deeper, ongoing, transpersonal, authentic part of us that seeks to evolve through expression and manifestation in this lifetime. 2 Jungian archetypes describing the Masculine. 3 The apparent path of the Sun in the sky. 4 There are, in fact, 13 constellations including Ophiuchus (or Serpentarius) which is not used as a sign in the astrological zodiac. In addition, due to the precession of the equinoxes and because of their differing shapes and sizes, the constellations in the sky do not equate exactly astronomically with the zodiac signs we use. They are therefore a symbolical representation rather than an exact mirror of the sky.

Martina Barrett College established 1988 with excellent reputati on Practi cing Refl exologist with over 22 years experience. Conti nual Professional Development > Pregnancy & Refl exology > Cancer & Refl exology > Reading the Story the Feet have to tell > Refl exology Refresher Day >> Indian Head Massage > Homoeopathy for home use. Other Post Graduate courses also available. College established 1988 with excellent reputati on Practi cing Refl exologist with over 22 years experience. THERAPEUTIC REFLEXOLOGY ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY www.beamsholisti c.ie BEAMS Holisti c Therapy College Mayo Leisure Point, Moneen, Casltebar, Co Mayo Tel 094-9027110 Email marti na@kachina.ie The Clinic of Wholistic Medicine was established in1983. 3 decades of study, travel, research, clinical application of methods and testing, has resulted in the Welcare© System of treatment we use today. Using combined therapies we are able to treat many conditions, which fail to respond to single modalities. The Welcare© System is a system of nutritional guidance & cleasning, which draws from the methods of Naturopathy, Chinese medicine and from the most up to date nutritional research. The aim of the program is to empower patients to obtain optimum health, vitality and wellness within a reasonable time frame. This system is also very beneficial in prevention of illnesses. The Clinic of Wholistic Medicine 34 Upper Abbeygate Street, Galway. T: (091) 567416 | F: (091) 537995 | W: www.wholistichealing.ie E: info@wholistichealing.ie or gcwm@eircom.net Other therapies available: Acupuncture | Nutritional Therapy | CranioSacral Therapy

My first body treatment was reflexology in the late 70s in Boston. The therapist was able to point out stress points in my body through my feet. I left that institute with the book “21st Century Survival” by Victo-Victo- ras Kulvinskas and proceeded to take fam- ily and friends as victims for foot massages based on the information in the book. Many years later, I had my own reflexology school in Dublin. Did you know that…? Your foot contains 26 perfectly proportio- » ned bones wrapped in muscles, tendons and bands of ligaments. Your heels are connected to your lower » back, and how your heels engage with the ground effects your hips and lower back. Your Achilles tendon, if tight, can indicate » tightness in neck and shoulders. There are pressure points on the soles » of the feet that effect kidney function; and energy meridians run along the toes corresponding to the spleen, stomach, bladder, gall bladder and liver; and all that is not even looking into reflexology and how it works. So, how do we begin to become more conscious about our feet, seeing that care for them is care for the whole being and body? 1 go barefooT! …as much as you can in the summer, on the beach or in your back garden. Accord- ing to some ancient philosophies, life-force energy called Chi (or Prana) can be absorbed through the soles of the feet, and as you walk, it increases your vitality, your capacity to do more work and your ability to think more clearly. On holiday, wear light flip-flops in public areas. When you come home from a day’s work at the office, take off your shoes and wear flat open toe sandals or cushioned cotton socks. I like to wear Birkenstocks as my indoor shoes and as outdoor sandals in summertime. 2 organise an aT home fooT TreaTmenT Have a basin of hot water with essential oils of Tea Tree and Lemon: 3 drops of each (Tisserand or Atlantic ranges of essential oils are good. Dr Hauschka St John’s foot cream is moisturising); a towel; a pumice stone and a nail file from your pharmacy or Body Shop. Soak your feet in the aromatic water. (Tea Tree is anti-fungal and anti-bacterial and the Lemon is refreshing and invigorating. You could also use Lavender instead if going to bed afterwards, as it relaxes and calms, and it is also good for burning feet.) Use the pumice stone on your heels and rough skin areas before and after the foot soak. Dry feet, then bring one foot up on your lap and massage all over with cream, press- ing with your thumbs and fingers into the sole of your foot, instep and ankle, stretching and opening out the foot. 3 roll Those bones… …ligaments and muscles daily when walking. A simple way is, when walking, to practice “rolling” your feet: placing your heal on the ground first and rolling along under your foot to your toes and then lifting your heel off the ground. This way it is as if one’s feet were “wheels.” You will feel how your lower back, hips, legs and even whole spine engages with this moving feast which maintains flexibility. Another exercise, when barefoot, is to stand on the toes and ball of foot, one foot at a time, pressing your body weight into the toes. Hold for a count of 3-5. Release, and then do the other foot. 4 TreaT yourself To a summer pedicure There are many special offers for appointments to bring a friend for free. Pedicures involve foot soaks, rough skin removal, a foot and leg massage, nail care and paint. I recently treated myself while in New York, and felt as if I was walking on cushions all evening after, as well as having brightly painted and cared for toe- nails for weeks afterward. 5 relaxaTion pracTice for The whole body and being When your mind is racing with worried thoughts, bring your awareness to the soles of your feet on the ground. Feel the shape and contact of the soles on the ground. Ima- gine that you are breathing the energy of the Earth up through your feet. See how the busy and fear-based thoughts start to loose their grip, your whole body gets calm and you come more into the present moment. Foot care is whole body care. Love those appendages that move you through this life with total service to your beautiful time on Earth. By Mary Berkery posiTive beauTySole Care for Summer 15 Any enquiries to mary@livingbeauty.ie

ambassadors. “We kids are not planting trees because we want to be forest rangers or environmentalists but because we believe that we can’t leave the future up to adults alone,” he said. Felix has gained global recognition for his work, named Champion of the Earth by UNEP in 2008, winning the Bavarian State Medal for services to Health and the Envi- ronment in 2009 and being the youngest recipient of the Utopia Award. Now 11 years old, he recently addressed the European Parliament and was invited to present his case at the G8-Summit. Entering the stage, he reached for the microphone and said: “The future for you means 20, 30 or 40 years.” The audience fell sTop Talking. sTarT planTing’ When Felix Finkbeiner announced that he wanted to take part in the United Na- tions Environment Programme’s Billion Tree Campaign, his teacher thought he only meant to plant one tree, but soon realised his nine year old pupil had a more ambi- tious project in mind. “Let’s plant millions of trees,” he proposed. “A million in each country of the world.” Felix travelled the country to deliver his presentation on global warming to other schools, creating a network of young tree- planters and co-founding Plant-for-the-Pla- net. Two years later, his ‘Stop Talking. Start Planting’ campaign has rallied huge support from hundreds of other children and helped to plant a million trees across Germany. At a recent youth conference, Felix informed Achim Steiner, United Nations Under-Secretary General: “The students of Germany have taken responsibility for their future by planting a million trees. Thus, we have contributed to the worldwide target by a thousandth.” Reminding him, “It might not seem very much but we do have to go to school in the week!” Felix has also set up several Plant-for- the-Planet academies, where students all over Germany, and more recently China, can teach each other to become climate Positively newsworthy 16 “now 11 years old, he recenTly addressed The european parliamenT and was inviTed To presenT his case aT The g8-summiT.”

silent. “For us, the future means 70 or 80 years. Whether the sea level rises this cen- tury by one, two or three metres is a scien- tific question for you. For us it’s a matter of survival!” The entire audience rose to their feet in applause. “When we cross the street, our parents take our hands,” Felix said, “but as we go into the future, we have to take the hands of our parents.” Contact: Plant-for-the-Planet, Kreuzeckstrasse 2, 82396 Pähl, Germany www.plant-for-the-planet.org The moneyless man Mark Boyle has completed a challenge which has been heralded the ultimate tri- bute to environmentalism, socialism and even humanitarianism: a year of money- less living. On Buy Nothing Day, 28th November 2008, he pitched up on land at an organic farm on the outskirts of Bristol, armed only with a caravan - courtesy of Freecycle - a wood burner and a simple rocket stove. Cash was replaced by the lost arts of foraging and bartering and by the newer pursuits of swishing (swapping unwanted clothes) and wwoofing (worldwide opportu- nities on organic farms, where helpers work in exchange for food and lodgings). Other lifestyle changes included using newspaper as loo roll, creating pens out of wild ink cap mushrooms and making use of people’s unwanted items. Despite finishing his challenge at the end of November 2009, Mark continues to live without money, relishing the freedom and simplicity of his new life. He now plans to set up a community of like-minded people, volunteers for which are in abundance. During the last few weeks of his challenge, more than 2,000 people joined Mark’s Freeconomy internet site, which promotes skill-sharing without any money changing hands. Mark’s debut book, The Moneyless Man, was published in May. The proceeds from which are going into a trust fund to buy land on which the Freeconomy community will be built. The initiative, once off the ground, will encourage the general public to come and experience moneyless living. It will be a place where food, friendship, culture, edu- cation, skill-sharing, scavenging and fora- ging is at the core. Contact: www.justfortheloveofit.org Email: mark@justfortheloveofit.org sol cinema A mobile, solar-powered ‘micro-cinema’, commissioned by Undercurrents, will be touring the UK this year. The 1960s two berth caravan, which was converted into a cinema using recycled materials, will help bring the work of progressive film makers to diverse audiences. Inside, Sol Cinema will comfortably accommodate eight people, yet it caters for outdoor audiences of up to a hundred. Power comes entirely from the sun, via two solar panels and is stored in state of the art lithium batteries ready for late night screenings. Undercurrents is an alternative video news agency that focuses on social and environmental justice issues. Recently, its co-founder, Helen Iles, was named a Digital Hero of Wales at a ceremony in the House of Lords. The award celebrates outstanding people who are using digital technology to bring about positive, environmental and social change. The cinema can be booked for events Contact: Undercurrents, Old Exchange, Pier Street, Swansea, SA1 1RY Tel: +44 (0)1792 455900 Websites: www.thesolcinema.org www.undercurrents.org ancienT culTures rise for Time of prominence This is a moment in time when many indigenous peoples of the world believe they will ascend in influence and their way of life will be more prevalent again. For this reason, the recent gathering of indigenous peoples from across the glo- be at Tiwanaku, in Bolivia, to celebrate the inauguration of President Evo Mo- rales, is particularly significant. Entering his second term as the country’s first ful- ly indigenous Aymara head of state for hundreds of years, he won a staggering 63 per cent of the vote. In a traditional ceremony at the ancient archeological site of Tiwanaku, Juan Evo Morales was attended by four ‘abuelos’ - two men and two women who are more than a hundred years old each. President Morales is now proposing a programme of ‘communita- rian socialism’ and, in April, he is convening a conference on the rights of Mother Earth. Seeking to blend the old with the new, Evo, as he is popularly known, is striking a balance between the traditional and the modern. Aymara Elders refer to an awakening of a new genetic code in humanity, which will begin expressing itself in 2010. Simul- taneously, this year, other Elders will hold meetings in Tibet, Africa, Australia, Nordic countries and at Stonehenge in Wiltshire, among other historical places. wishes come True Rebecca Wright, an aspiring, Australian mu- sician living in Glasgow had a feeling that something big was in store for her this year. Her intuition told her to practice extra hard on the cello and guitar. Then, one day re- cently, she was contacted out of the blue by a Melbourne-based band called “Wishing Well” who were planning a six month tour of Europe. She had been recommended to them as a cellist by a mutual friend, and after sending them a few YouTube videos of her playing along to some of their songs, they invited her to join them on tour. She feels it’s a wish come true. www.myspace.com/rebeccawrightmusic www.myspace.com/thewishingwellband posiTive irish news We would love to print more positive Irish news stories, so if you have one, send it in to us. We know there are lots of them out there and we want to share them with everyone. Email stories to patrick@positivelife.ie

With so many of us seeking grea- ter awareness, it’s hard to ima- gine that there are any univer- sal laws left to be named or discovered. And yet there is a se- ries of laws so fundamental to our health, success and fulfilment that it’s a miracle they’ve remained hidden to most of the human race. As immutable as Newton’s Law of Gravity (yet much more uplifting, especially where certain body parts are concerned), these laws govern how much love, money, ease, success and fulfilment we have in our lives. They shape our ca- reers, relationships and perspective, in- fluencing our choices, goals and dreams. Not to be confused with the Law of At- traction or the power of positive thinking, these laws are part of a far bigger picture that relates to the subconscious program- ming that occurs in our formative years. I call them the Laws of Luxury Living because they enable us to create what we want, once we understand how they work. The essence of these laws is that we attract certain situations, dynamics and circumstances in accordance with how we have been taught to think, feel and live. In other words, this ‘programming’ creates our reality and determines our cir- cumstances, whether we realise it or not. And because much of our programming is negative, creating low self-worth and a multitude of fears, doubts and insecur- ities, the most important one of these laws involves building healthy self-acceptance in practical, everyday ways. This brings an immediate upgrade in our personal cir- cumstances and turns us into magnets for all kinds of wonderful stuff. Adjusting this crucial piece of our nega- tive programming means practising, embodying and demonstrating healthy self-acceptance in every area of our lives. It’s not about having positive thoughts, feelings or intentions; it’s about doing and saying things that demonstrate strong self- worth—even if, inside, we feel insecure, wobbly or undeserving. We may want to say no to the boss about working over- time, but we’re afraid we’ll lose our job; we might want to stand up to an abusive partner, but we’re afraid he / she will leave us; and we might prefer to have a nice hot bath, rather than taking a friend to the airport, but we’re afraid she’ll think we’re selfish. Yet all of these things demonstrate a fear of rejection caused by low self-worth. You may think such compromises keep you safe, but they actually keep you stuck in self-denial and they guarantee that you will never get what you really want. In practical terms, demonstrating healthy self-acceptance means: 1 taking care of your body by eating well, exercising, resting when you’re tired and making your well-being a top prio- rity in your day—no matter what. 2 saying no to any kind of neediness, manipulation or abuse, and not allowing yourself to be used as a doormat or taken for granted. 3 not making compromises based on insecurity or wanting someone’s love or approval and, instead, making conscious choices based on healthy self-respect. 4 expressing your opinions, regardless of what other people think, and daring to be authentic and honest in your interactions. 5 graciously accepting compliments, allowing others to support you, and asking for help when you need it. 6 cultivating healthy friendships and social interaction. 7 expressing yourself creatively through art, music, hobbies or in the way you dress. 8 creating healthy boundaries so that you don’t put others’ needs before your own. 9 living life on your terms, rather than being driven by what others want or expect. 10 proactively choosing what you want, rather than catering / reacting to the needs or demands of your circumstances. 11 cultivating connection and intimacy by relating to others in heartfelt, meanin- gful ways. When I heed my own advice and do these things daily, magic happens. When I take a month off to write or just relax, I’m swamped with clients, offers of work, requests for radio interviews, invitations to exotic places and all kinds of wonderful things that simply would not have hap- pened had I stayed at home, nose to the grindstone, fearfully saving my pennies and working as hard as I can. When I dem- onstrate strong self-acceptance in positive ways, it always pays off. It happens every single time, without fail, and with consist- ently positive outcomes. Olga Sheean is an author, relationship counsellor, therapist and empowerment coach. She is offering FREE empowerment workshops, in your own home / office, for small groups of 5-6 friends / colleagues. Call 016852600 or email olga@olgasheean.com for details. 18 posiTive power The Laws of Luxury Living By Olga Sheean

100% Natural Whole & Milled Chia Seed Chia Bia™ is Salvia hispanica L. (CHIA). - A uniquely benefi cial seed classifi ed as a raw whole food by the FDA and backed by almost 18 years of scientifi c and agricultural research. All Chia Bia™ seed is sourced and approved by Dr. Wayne Coates. Chia Bia™ contains the highest and safest concentrations below of any plant source on the planet – ● Omega 3 ● Antioxidants ● Fibre ● Protein As an added benefi t, Chia Bia™is gluten-free, trans-fat free, sugar-free, it is non GMO and Pesticide Free. Chia Bia™ - Suppliers of 100% Natural Chia Seed For more information visit www.chiabia.ie or email info@chiabia.ie At the new Slí An Chroí Centre, Smithfield, Dublin 7: 1& 2 Day Courses • Introduction To Shamanism • Living In Protection • The Shaman Divines • Power In A Sacred Universe Evening Gatherings • Men’s Group • Women’s Group • Immrama Community - Journeying with the Drum Slí an Chroí SHAMANISM WALKING THE PATHWAY OF THE HEART Training In Healing Shamanism 2010/2011 When we step into shamanic practice, our hearts take us on an epic path of discovery, power, beauty and wisdom. It is the soul’s ‘journey home’, connecting us to the sacredness and magic of Life. We touch the earth and rise gifted with healing, to become true caretakers of ourselves and of the earth. We see our greatest purpose and come to know the ecstatic joy that rolls like thunder deep in the centre of our being and of all creation. This is the pathway of the heart, “Slí An Chroí”. -John Cantwell & Karen Ward- L   t With the energy of compassion Slí An Chroi is the school of holistic-healing shamanic training founded and directed by John Cantwell and Karen Ward since 2005. The Sli an Chroí lineage is native Irish and is supported by that of the Inca (Q’ero Indian, Peru) into which John and Karen have been initiated during fieldwork. Their model of shamanic practice blends ancient wisdom teachings and rites of initiation together with cutting edge breakthrough techniques for Energetic- Spiritual, Psycho-Emotional and Physical emergence. For more information contact us: www.slianchroi.ie or www.pathwayoftheheart.ie Email: johnandkaren@slianchroi.ie, Tel: 01 670 4905. At Dunderry Park, Co. Meath & Mucklagh Lodge, Co. Wicklow: “Medicine Spiral Trainings”, (4 weekends over 10 months approx.) 1. Personal Shamanic Practice – starts Sept. 3rd-5th, 2010 2. Professional Shamanic Healing Therapists (Certification) – starts Sept. 2010 Samhain – The Native New Year, Oct. 29th-31st, 2010

Do you suffer from menstrual problems? Do you dread getting your period every month? Maybe you think of it as a curse or something you just put up with. Or could you be one of a growing number of women who are waking up to the power of the menstrual cycle and using that knowledge, not only to heal their bodies, but also, to be more creative and empowered in their lives. The menstrual cycle is a hidden resource in a woman’s body that, once tapped in to, can become the means of a rich, psychological and spiritual exploration. A woman can open to inner forces that illuminate, guide and support the unfolding of her life journey—this can help her manifest her goals, fulfil her creative calling and deepen her spiritual nature. 1 recovering The power There are two distinctive movements of energy in the cycle—the first is one of growth, leading from menstruation to ovulation. This is a natural movement outwards, away from an intimate connection with your inner self to a refocusing on your outer work and others. This growth phase is about asserting your will and going out to create and shape your life. The second impulse of energy is from ovulation to menstruation. This gradually draws you back deeply into yourself again. This second movement creates more sensitivity and permeability, giving you greater insight, a capacity to sense into the complexity and depth of things and, in so doing, to mature. You move from a singular focus to multi- focal awareness, channelling and managing much more tension and, therefore, creative potential. In the growth phase, you have a natural clarity about what needs to be done and the focus and motivation to do it. As the cycle turns and you enter the second half, it is less about producing and more about sorting and refining what you have produced. You have a different kind of energy and motivation—an insight into what is working and what isn’t and a drive to sort it out. Gradually, this may give way to a feeling of letting things be, that fully takes over once you bleed. Don’t be fooled that this letting go is somehow a waste of time. On the contrary, you should think of it as a time of potentising what you do. By allowing things to just be for a while, something happens. Other forces can come in, whether it is support from others or your own deep wisdom that offers insights and clarity. As you pull back, you create the literal and psychic space for these things to emerge. At menstruation itself, a woman can potentially enter a more expanded consciousness, experiencing highly charged altered states that can be ecstatic and visionary. The key to unlocking these inner talents is awareness and respect for the changing rhythm of your cycle. Chart it on a daily basis and get to know your own distinctive pattern of mood and energy over a whole menstrual month. The changing moods are like different sources of power that you can learn to draw on to manifest a more fulfilled and creative life. 2 discovering your ‘hoT spoTs’ The more you pay attention, the more you will discover hot spots—times of more intense feeling. Whether pleasurable or challenging, these days are moments of power. You’ll find hot spots for such things as causing trouble—a good thing—that’s the moment when you’re not censoring yourself; high productivity; least tolerance or, conversely, a time of feeling very magnanimous; a high time for partying or the secret time for dreaming or getting guidance; the darkest, most alone time; and the time of most tenderness when you can experience exquisite intimacy, including with your beloved. Make a mental note, or mark them in your diary, especially if you find yourself caught out by the challenges of your hot spots. And then capitalise on them! It is possible to transform your experience of menstruation from pain to power. Restoration of the wisdom of the cycle is deeply healing and enlivening. You will find stress can fall away and this alone eases symptoms. A greater kindness towards yourself will seep in and you may experience more motivation to do whatever it is you need to heal and achieve your goals. As one woman said, “I have been filled with new energy, hope, inspiration and power. I seem to be getting more out of each day and feel happier and thankful to be alive and in charge of my destiny and life choices.” The Power of Menstruation For more info, visit www.wildgenie.com20 By Alexandra Pope

Jai Kartar (no.26) Whatever you call your vagina we think it deserves some love. Especially when you think how much love and attention you lavish on your hair, nails, teeth or skin. To find out more visit loveyourvagina.com Stand 200 Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine; Cookery; Cranial Osteopathy; Creative Arts; Homeopathy; Hypnotherapy; Kinesiology; Life Coaching; Massage; Meditation; Nutrition; Psychology; Psychotherapy/Counselling; Reflexology; Yoga Heron Court, Bandon, Phone 023 8852521 www.natural-health.ie

household products, not to mention profes- sional advice and information. In order to complement what we already offer, we added a therapy centre, called Fionnuisce, a couple of years ago, and this has attracted a number of outstanding comple- mentary and alternative practitioners to the town. It offers an extra service to customers and facilitates learning and debate through evening classes and events… giving us more to talk about in An Tobairín! The fl oods that devastated this town last November and the recent state of our banks have been a sobering experience indeed, but we have survived. It has offered us new insight into the fragile nature of trade and reinforced our awareness as consumers and traders of our total interdependence. This awareness, along with the consolidating effect of shared community effort, will be, I believe, the tide that lifts the spirit of the town and, I hope, keeps the An Tobairín and Fionnuisce boats afl oat for many years to come. For more info, visit www.antobairin.com and www.natural-health.ie 2 aideen & kieran hurley EVErGrEEn HEalTHFOODS Evergreen Healthfoods have been at the heart of Galway since 1992. From small be- ginnings as a wholefoods deli on Mainguard Street, Aideen & Kieran Hurley have ex- panded several times over the years, with the chain now consisting of 5 stores. They also have a large online presence with their website, allowing the business to sell to cus- tomers outside of Galway into a nationwide market. In the late 80s, Aideen developed a keen interest in health foods, and quickly realised that Galway didn’t really have a store that catered specifi cally to vegetarians or those with food allergies. So, with some retail experience behind her, and a lot of research, Evergreen was set up. The business stocked a wide range of fl ours, beans, grains, lentils, herbs, spices, herbal teas and soya products. ‘We took a lot of time to talk with customers and fi nd out what else they were looking for and also what they weren’t able to get.’ says Aideen. ‘We responded to this, did some research, and grew our range of products that way.’ By 1993, the business was going very well and the people of Galway were responding very positively. The range of products grew, as did the staff numbers. In fact, the business had done so well in its fi rst year that another Brought to you by the Irish Association of Health Stores, RUDE HEALTH, at the RDS on September 11th & 12th, is the only natural health show in these islands, where your questions will be answered face to face by experts. This year, we thought we’d let you hear from some homegrown experts who have been giving face to face advice daily for many years: The Health Store Owners. Rude Health preview 3 mary wedel an TOBairÍn An Tobairín began life in Bandon very ten- tatively, tucked away from the centre and just out of the main stream. Ten years la- ter, we fi nd ourselves right in the middle of the main street and very much a part of the bustling business town. Over the years, we have become increasin- gly aware of the importance of our shop as a meeting place. Customers love to stop and chat and share life’s joys and sorrows. It’s far from idle chatter, though. This building was home to the local tailor for many years before us and I like to imagine that much of what we do here facilitates a seamless line of local, wise conversation. The warmth among the staff and customers is palpable and we all benefi t hugely from the resulting sense of community. We do other things too, though! Our custo- mers are very well-informed and conscious consumers, and they expect exceptional attention from us. We do our best to provide just that, along with the very best organic food, quality supplements, ethical and environmentally-friendly body care and

outlet was opened in November 1993 in the Galway Shopping Centre. Evergreen quickly became a one-stop- shop for people looking for healthier options in life. ‘If people choose to take the healthier option or change their lifestyle in a positive way, we want to make it as easy for them as possible. Having it all under one roof makes it more convenient at a time when conve- nience is key in retail,’ says Aideen. Evergreen is now a well-known brand across the country. What started off as a wholefoods deli, is now a fully-stocked health food emporium. From nuts and seeds to vitamins and herbs, organic skincare and nappies to eco-friendly cleaning products and sports nutrition, Evergreen still prides itself on responding to customer requests. For more info, visit www.evergreen.ie 1 sally smiTh OPEn SESamE I fi rst opened the doors of Open Sesame, in Ennis, during the summer of 1988. It was a very small, homemade-style store with shel- ves made up of raw forestry “slobs”. Very much a family venture, we were determined to introduce wholesome, interesting, local and imported foodstuffs to the changing Irish palate. Aside from writing out recipes and resear- ching supplements, we found the “miracle” we could perform was to get the bowels of Clare moving, and this hasn‘t changed. A typical morning would see the arrival of fresh, local, goats’ milk, freshly picked organic veg and wholemeal sourdough bread delivered from Lough Bunny, still warm. We used zero technology and focused on high quality local produce. Serious nutritional training led us to encou- rage cutting edge supplements into Ireland, with Solgar launching here in 1997. These herbs and vitamins, combined with good dietary advice, worked for so many people that we soon gained a positive reputation and loyal customer base. Boom years followed and life got a little bit crazier for everyone. We were able to move into a bigger and bri- ghter premises and, in 2001, we were ready to open our second branch, in Gort. As my hometown, it had always been my dream to open there and spread the word through regular talks and seminars linking in with the community. Similar to Ennis, here we have seen our customer base grow to include people from every background ima- ginable. It no longer seems to be considered weird and alternative to enjoy a healthy diet of brown rice and lentils! Now, more people are fl irting with self-suffi ciency than ever before, and attitudes refl ect this. I can fi nd myself refi lling a litre of washing up liquid for a customer one minute, and the next I’m e-mailing a contact in Japan about the contents of a new, cutting edge supple- ment. I remember a colleague saying to me during diffi cult times, “Wouldn’t it be easier to just sell nails and hammers?” He may well have been right, but for me, the easy route is rarely the most fulfi lling! For more info, visit www.opensesame.ie 4 garreTT mccabe HEalTH maTTErS I had worked in the Healthfood retail bu- siness for over 10 years when I decided to set up my own business. I had done it for so long for somebody else that I decided it was probably the time to go out and do it for myself, so I decided to open up a store out in Bray. It was great because I had worked with a number of people in the industry with vast experience who joined me at the time. That was 11 and a half years ago. Back then, our customers were mainly women, but now we appeal to all age groups and both sexes. From our perspective, the most important part of what we do is to develop a sense of community between our staff and our cus- tomers. We pay a huge amount of attention to getting to know our customers in all 3 stores. I’ve always enjoyed the shop fl oor part of what we do; talking to customers and enjoying what they have to say to us. The feedback from customers is so hugely important and, thankfully, in 99% of cases, they tell me how brilliant our staff are and how good our service is and how they love coming into our stores; so that makes me feel really good about what we do and continues to motivate me about why we do it; and it’s also great to hear that our staff (the majority of whom have been with us for so long) are still doing what they love doing. The Rude Health Show is a great support for our industry, and long may it continue. More and more people are becoming aware of it, and it gives us a big chance to expose our industry to a greater audience, and that’s what we need in the current economic cli- mate: for people to see what is going on in our industry and to see how professionally it’s being run across the board. That’s why we love that it’s there. For more info, call Bray: 012762669, Crumlin: 014550323 or Grafton Street: 016710166 To fi nd your local health food store, go to www.iahs.ie. Some to check out include www.healingharvest.ie, www.organico.ie, www.evolv.ie Speakers at this years Rude Health Show include Patrick Holford, Dr. Marilyn Glenville and Karen Ward. www.rudehealth.ie outlet was opened in November 1993 in the to open our second branch, in Gort. “The rude healTh show is a greaT supporT for our indusTry... ThaT’s why we love ThaT iT’s There.” 23

A boy meets a girl. They have a good first impression of each other so they start dating. They get to know each other better and find even more things they like about each other. They notice a little habit that their lover has which they don’t parti- cularly care for, but they choose to not make an issue of it. The relationship seems almost perfect. As time goes on, they each discover more and more about their partner that they don’t like, but by now they’ve put in quite a large emotional investment, so it seems stupid to risk a good night’s sleep over a few lumps in the mattress. After all, they believe that this is probably as good as it will ever get for them. Then, after more and more restless nights, they start to resent their partner, fo- cusing more on the few springs in their back than on all of the good things they fell in love with at the beginning of the relationship. Eventually, they wonder why they are still with this person that they don’t actually like, and finally come face to face with the deci- sion to either give up and just accept their lot in life or to actually do something about it. Most people might think the “doing some- thing about it” is leaving their partner, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, doing that may just set you up for a repeat performance with another partner, which I’m going to talk more about later. Another option is to actually sit down with your partner and have an open, honest, heart to heart communication about what is going on in each of your hearts and minds. And believe me when I tell you, I know what a scary proposition that is for someone who’s never really done it before. A lot of you may be feeling fear welling up at the thought of telling the truth. You may be worried that your honesty will be the death of your rela- tionship, but if you’re not really alive in it now, it may be worth the risk. I continue to be pleasantly surprised at how appreciative my wife is of my honesty, even at times when it brings up insecurities in her or is fuelled by my own insecurities. Our ability to communicate in an open, honest, loving way is the reason we’ve stayed together through all sorts of challenges. conseQuences Let’s imagine you tell your partner your truth. Assuming they’re sane, what’s the worst that could happen? They become really upset and leave you. You spend time grieving the loss, and then after the Law of Attraction responds to your expression of the new, true you, you meet someone who’s more aligned with your desires and develop an even better relationship. And that’s the worst that could happen! So, what’s the best that could happen? Your partner is really open to and understanding of your needs and desires. They openly express their own needs and desires, and you see if your hearts’ desires really do match. If so, it brings you closer together and your relationship develops in magnificent ways. If not, it has still managed to bring you closer together and, with a lot of love in your hearts, you decide to go your separate ways. Either way, it’s a change for the best. One communication exercise you and your partner can try is to sit opposite each other, gently looking into each other’s eyes while sitting in silence for a minute. (This alone may bring you closer together, so it is always a good way to start a heartfelt communica- tion.) Then, one at a time, you speak some of your truth to your partner, using phrases such as, “I feel…” and “I would like…” and avoiding phrases that begin with the word “You…” (It is not about blame. It is about taking responsibility for your happiness by What if everyone toldThe Truth? By Patrick Bridgeman

communicating your truth.) If it feels right, your partner can repeat what you say back to you so that you know that they have heard you, but they should not interrupt you or say anything other than the words you have just spoken. Then it is their turn to share their truth. This kind of communication let’s you know exactly where you both stand. And when you are hoping to take steps in a posi- tive direction, it is really helpful to know where you currently stand. Having said that, it is sometimes difficult to really know where you yourself stand because so much of your own foundation is based on unconscious or transparent beliefs. This is where we start to talk about your relationship with yourself. percepTion You have filters on your perception which limit your understanding of reality. And you are sharing your experience of reality with other Humans who also perceive the world through limiting beliefs. The truth you perceive is not The Truth, so there can only ever be subjective honesty in relationships. When you agreed to the idea that you are a separate being with an identity which is different to that which surrounds you, you put a huge filter over your awareness, which only allows you to perceive The Truth from the confines of your Manufactured Self. Believing yourself to be human (and all that that entails) set you up for a very specific set of experiences, mainly within the confines of a body and a mind. This initial ‘separation’ filter is the reason most of us see the world as being outside of ourselves instead of seeing it as a reflection of what is going on inside our mind. Our beliefs are thoughts that we have accepted as true. Accepting them as true, we don’t need to think about them consciously, so they get stored away in our subconscious. These subconscious beliefs attract our experience, so if you are finding life’s cir- cumstances to be a bit difficult, it may be worth opening up the library of your mind and having a read. Transparent beliefs can be uncovered by paying attention to our misperceptions, such as hearing someone say one thing when in fact they’ve said something else entirely. Your assumptions about what’s going on, whether accurate or not, show you what is going on with your beliefs. Develop your awareness. Becoming aware of your uncons- cious patterns brings them into the light of your conscious mind where you have more control over them instead of them having unconscious control over you. You can change your beliefs if you want to. When you notice one of your false assump- tions, admit it to yourself, e.g. “Sometimes I believe that people won’t like me for who I really am.” Take a breath and feel the truth of that statement. Then, search your memo- ry for times in your life when the opposite of that statement was true for you, no matter how small or unimportant the occasion may seem. Now, declare the positive reflection of your original statement, e.g. “Sometimes people like me for who I really am.” Keep affirming that truth until it is strong in you. Focus on it and let the strength of that belief attract the appropriate reflections into your life experience. It is a gentle process of awareness and action, using your feminine energy to recei- ve guidance and your masculine energy to put that guidance into action. I trust my intuition. I believe it is more connected to the truth of a situation than my intellectual mind can ever be. So, doing what feels right, although sometimes scary, will always lead me along the fastest route to the best life possible for my unique self. This balanced feminine / masculine, receptive / proactive way of living can become your new creative habit if you choose to practice it regularly. The universe is one of relationships. It must be if it is one of separates and duality, which is what we have made it. The foun- dation of reality is one that we all agree on, and, as it spirals out, it becomes much more individual, ending up with you and me out here on the leading edge, relating our indi- vidual truths to each other. If everyone told the truth, we would evol- ve further and faster than ever before. But in order to do that, we first need to discover our own truth. You may never understand the ultimate Truth, for it is beyond filters of separation, but I believe you can know it. Knowing yourself brings a clarity to your creations. Loving yourself spreads Love out to the entire universe and reflects it all back to you. Being true to yourself moves you further and faster along your path of evolu- tion and enlightenment. And, as always, the choice is yours to make. patrick@positivelife.ie “your assumpTions abouT whaT’s going on, wheTher accuraTe or noT, show you whaT is going on wiTh your beliefs.”

Body & Soul The summer solsTice gaThering By Ciara Ann McKenna For more information visit www.bodyandsoul.ie 26 Body & Soul began as a small gathering of people interested in music, arts, holistic therapies, performance, community and creative expression. It was a well-loved and integral part of the Electric Picnic. Over the last seven years, it has grown steadily into a heartfelt and colourful platform with a primary vision in artistic and holistic colla- boration. It was, and still remains, a modern celebration of an age old tradition. Body & Soul is more about atmospheric engineering than main attractions and hype. They want their festival goers to enjoy an “experience” rather than just a gig - they’re sustainability conscious, without being too in-your-face, unique rather than boutique, an independent festival with a heart-sha- ped mind and a cutting-edge soul. This year, they’re staging the first of their very own annual festivals, bringing together a collaboration of artists, musicians, poets and performers in a chilled-out, enchanted environment - an eclectic, conscious caba- ret of electronic and visual arts, featuring homegrown talent, emerging artists and a selection of international guests. The Body & Soul Summer Solstice Wee- kend is their inaugural stand-alone festival, which will take place across the labyrinth of stone-walled gardens and woodlands in the beautiful surrounds of Ballinlough Castle, Co. Meath on the 19th & 20th June. With a capacity of 1,500 guests, the festi- val promises to be an intimate affair with a strong focus on the little things that make a festival great. The diverse and exciting pro- gramme will include a central Holistic Area featuring wood-fired hot tubs, saunas and tipis with over 30 professional therapists offering everything from Massage to foot rubs, yoga, dance workshops and a range of alternative therapies. Artists, Performers, Musicians and The- rapists are brought together to celebrate and contribute to a more intimate side of a festival experience. Through programming, workshops, support for the arts, music policy and respect for the planet, Body & Soul hopes to inspire a heightened aware- ness of a people-environment connection, while promoting every twist and turn of countless new, alternative and exciting artistic corners and pathways. The vision is to create a permanent festival site for future generations to enjoy, and specializes in hand crafted, bespoke stages, gardens and enchanted spaces. The festival will stage a host of live bands and electronic acts across the weekend, including pioneer of folktronica Kieran Hebden (aka Four Tet); homegrown elec- tronic heroes Jape; Dr Alex Paterson of The Orb; Tunng and Kormac’s Big Band among the extensive, eclectic line-up. Expect “hands-on” green crafts workshops promoting sustainable and environmentally sound practices, circus performers, Ram- bling Troubadours, improvised acoustic sessions, impromptu parties, winding paths through delicious food stalls, cellos by the pond, fire ceremonies, drumming troupes, a secluded and dedicated Soul Kids garden, a Masquerade Ball with a moonlit orches- tra, bonfires under the stars, and a host of quirky nooks and crannies. Body & Soul: a new Summer haven.

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The good life 2.0 communiTy resilience in a changing worldGood Grief 28 In the last issue, I looked into the need to build personal resilience and how we might go about nurturing our own ability to deal with the dra- matic changes that come upon us. I believe that, as well as developing our own abi- lity to cope, we will need to cultivate the resilience of our communities to manage. In many ways, the shocks we face will be too overwhelming for individuals to tackle alone, and adapting will require real coope- ration. I am often accused by friends of being overly pessimistic and constantly told that things are not as bad as I think they are. Conversely, I am accused by many collea- gues of being overly optimistic and told that things are a lot worse than I think they are. So, how bad are things? Are we actually on the cusp of collapse? This is what David Korowicz suggests in his recent paper, ‘Tipping Point’, published by FEASTA, the Foundation for the Economics of Sustainability. In the paper, which I urge you to read, By Davie Philip

1 shock The first stage we move into when we re- ceive bad news or become aware of the scale of the challenge is an initial paralysis. Here, we are in deep shock and are unable to do anything. We are numb and confused and, quite quickly, might fall straight into the next stage. 2 anger After the initial shock, most people enter a stage of frustration and anger. People at this stage tend to be very negative and are gene- rally not in a fit state to make good decisions or choices. The anger can manifest in diffe- rent ways, inwardly at ourselves or outwardly directed at others, especially those that are making us aware of the challenges. 3 denial “No, it’s not as bad as that.” This stage is one where we refuse to accept facts or ad- mit there is a problem. In this stage, there is a conscious or unconscious refusal to hear information relating to the situation concer- ned. As a species, we seem to be hardwired with this defence mechanism and are very good at avoiding the inevitable. Most peo- ple get locked into this stage when dealing with uncomfortable facts or shocking news. Many will take refuge in rejecting the no- tion that things are as bad as the reports suggest. In this stage, many will ridicule the messenger and marginalise those giving the reports as ‘doomers’ or ‘cranks’. It is easy to see this stage in regards to Climate Change where people simply do not believe the science that the earth is warming, or that humans are the cause. 4 bargaining “Yes, that is happening, but...” In this stage, people search for a way out or try to nego- tiate a compromise. “But will everything be okay if I change my light bulbs and use re- cycled paper?” We struggle to find meaning in this stage and hope that we can somehow postpone or delay the inevitable. 5 depression This stage is the final realisation of the inevitable. In it, individuals experience an overwhelming sense of loss and they have no energy to make decisions for themsel- ves. Signs of depression include changes in eating or sleeping patterns, irritability and moodiness. At this time, people need to gather information and consider their op- tions. Quite often, we become aware that we don’t have a problem to be solved, but a predicament to adapt to. Although difficult, this realisation can lead to the next stage. 6 accepTance “It’s all right now. I’m alright now.” We are now entering the acceptance stage. This doesn’t always mean individuals necessa- rily like the change, but now they are be- ginning to accept that it has happened and are willing to integrate it into their lives. At this stage, people can feel empowered, but things will never be the same. Change has occurred. Although change is uncomfortable and often beyond our control, it is important to remember you are not alone. Managing the transition through the grief cycle and successfully incorporating the changes will be far easier if you have a strong community around you. Unfortunately, individuals do not move through the grief cycle in an orderly, step- by-step way, and there is a danger of beco- ming stuck at one stage. Becoming stuck in the anger or depression phase is common, and living in denial is where more and more people seem to be residing. In a future that is very uncertain, we will have to accept some extremely painful and difficult choices. Moving through this sequence and not getting stuck will be essential. Even though there may be a great deal of uncertainty and even catastrophe on the horizon, hopefully we can accept the change and accelerate the responses that will ensure a liveable planet: one that is less stressful, more time-rich, healthier and hap- pier. Even after reading David Korowicz’s Tipping Point, I am still optimistic… or am I stuck in denial? Korowicz states that, “There is a high pro- bability that our integrated and globalised civilisation is on the cusp of a fast and near- term collapse.” He goes on to say, “Appeals towards localism, transition initiatives, orga- nic food and renewable energy production, however laudable and necessary, are totally out of scale to what is approaching.” So, when we read articles like this, which highlight our vulnerabilities, confront our assumptions and point out the ‘perfect storm’ ahead, what do we do? What is our response when we realise the scale of the challenges we will have to face and the changes we will have to make? The real problem is that most people are fast asleep and don’t get that we have a problem at all and, either consciously or unconsciously, just don’t want to know. Despite the good intentions of many people and groups, rai- sing awareness of the crisis often results in people experiencing and even becoming stuck in the ‘grief cycle’. The ‘grief cycle’ is a sequence of emotio- nal states as outlined in Elizabeth Kübler- Ross’s 1969 book, ‘On Death and Dying’. The sequence is not just for dealing with bad news or death and dying, it is actually a ‘change model’ for helping us to unders- tand and deal with adversity. There are a number of stages in the grief cycle, which acts as a useful map to help us navigate through difficult times and to accept and adapt to change. Although most people roughly follow the sequence, they may stay in various stages for different amounts of time. Then there will be other people who skip some stages or experience them in a different order all together. Kübler-Ross noticed that many people switch between two or more stages and return to some of the stages a number of times before working through them enti- rely. She refers to this effect as the “roller coaster.” So, let’s strap ourselves in and take a ride on this ‘grief cycle’ roller coaster to see if we can identify stages where we ourselves might be stuck. Davie Philip is the Education manager at the Cultivate Centre, a member of the Cloughjordan Ecovillage and the coordinator of the Irish Transition Towns Network. www.thevillage.ie www.cultivate.ie http://transitiontownsireland.ning.com “The seQuence is noT JusT for dealing wiTh bad news or deaTh and dying, iT is acTually a ‘change model’ for helping us To undersTand and deal wiTh adversiTy.”

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As we approach 2012, there is much talk of a paradigm shift in consciousness, which in some quarters is perceived as the ‘end of the world’. It was our consciousness, or rather our lack of it, which created our current world with its rules, regulations, hierarchies and structures. Our focus on material wealth and personal gain stemmed from our ina- bility to create our lives through our higher selves. We sought guidance from outside ourselves, causing us to create false cen- tres of consciousness, pushing us further away from Source. The resultant economic, religious, poli- tical and environmental fallouts are well documented. Since the early 1960’s, as the Age of Aquarius began, we have seen individual consciousness arise. As we reach 2012 and beyond, a critical mass of consciousness is moving away from the fear-based false centre a world where consciousness leads the way, rather than compliance. During the 1960’s, the naturopath Robert St John was observing this shift, and reco- gnised that in order to actively achieve this shift, a process was required. Over the sub- sequent 30 years, he developed what is now known as Metamorphosis. St John observed that it is our attitude of mind, our thoughts, which create our reality. Nothing happens unless we think it first. If our thinking is conditioned by thought patterns from the past, then so too is our current reality. To truly ‘create’ our life in the present moment, free from this conditioning, we must be free of these thought patterns. St John recognised that our ability to think developed in the womb at the same time that our physical body was deve- loping. He created a process, based on the concept of reflex points, to address the flow of consciousness from awareness to concept, idea, thought, form, creation and finally into action. By gently paying attention to consciousness at these points, it is possible to release oneself from these patterns and move towards a less conditio- ned and fearful pattern of life. Metamorphosis practitioners have been working with this process over the past 30 years. They are mainly clustered in Aus- tralia, the US & Ireland, where St John did most of his work. Each individual will have a different experience, but there have been vast improvements noted at a physical, emotional and behavioural level, not to mention the spiritual. Children with Autism respond particularly well, as they free themselves from fear but continue to be highly functional. Fertility, the creation of life, is another area which responds well to Metamor- phosis. Both or either partner may wish to release negative patterns prior to concep- tion so that this influence is not introdu- ced to their offspring. Where there is a history of miscarriage (the failure of the life force), Metamorphosis has been suc- cessful in clearing the negative patterns, and so produces a healthy pregnancy and birth. The list goes on... Because the change is made at the fun- damental level of the human being, rather than the symptomatic level, there is no condition which cannot improve through the release of thought patterns and the subsequent creation of the individual’s life through a higher level of consciousness. What comes about through this clearing is the capacity to reconnect with Source in the present moment. This is where we connect with ‘all that is’, rather than what was or what might be. The connection with ‘all that is’ means that by trusting ourselves and our intuition, we can make choices and create our life based only on the present moment. The results can be significant to an individual, but it is the critical mass of consciousness which will have the grea- test impact. It is predicted that over the next 20 years, as we transition to a diffe- rent state of being, mental health will be the most common dis-ease of the human race. This comes about when there is conflict between the inner purpose and the external purpose, when there is a sense of unfulfilment and lack of moti- vation. Metamorphosis can assist anyone who wants to take control of their own life rather than be subject to the negativity of racial, cultural or family influences. None of these changes will come about in a dramatic manner, but by about 2020, we will be able to look back and identify that 2012 was the cusp on which the world shifted. Those of us who take responsibility for our consciousness during this time will be the true creators of our new world. MetamorphosisReconnecting with SourceBy Claire Burrows Claire Burrows tel: 086 8283238 “because The change is made aT The fundamenTal level of The human being, raTher Than The sympTomaTic level, There is no condiTion which cannoT improve Through The release of ThoughT paTTerns...” 31

32 In 2002, I had been working in the Pharma- ceutical Industry for twenty years. I loved my job - great working hours: 7:30am to 1:30pm, allowing me time with my husband and three boys - then aged 5, 7 and 10. Also, I loved the people I worked with. So, why resign? From as far back as I can remember, I have always been interested and intrigued with the vastness of our universe, and with how we can extend our minds beyond what we normally comprehend. At age fourteen, my Dad brought me to Transcendental Meditation. It was very different at that time, but I loved it and meditated daily from the age of 14 to about 20. I then came across Silva Mind Development in 1984. I found it great for expanding my mind, to be more effective. Around this time, I had also taken up Skydiving and found the Silva Mind Development techniques great in this regard. I represented Ireland over 7 years on the National Irish Skydiving team and have a couple of world record achievements to my name and over 1,800 skydives. Still, I was looking for something! In 1998, I came across Reiki. Reiki is a sim- ple, hands-on, energy healing technique. It relaxes both the mind and body, releasing physical tension and allowing balance back into mind, body and spirit. One of the best things about Reiki is that it works beyond your mind. So even in those moments when you don’t feel like doing anything, Reiki will bring this powerful divine energy or univer- sal conscious energy through you and alter your state to a happier, more peaceful one. As you clear your energy system, you auto- matically have more healing energy coming through your hands to provide healing for yourself and others. After my Reiki Level 1 workshop, I knew this was it, this was a new beginning. I knew I had been looking for something beyond the confines of my mind and, at the same time, I wanted to connect to something greater than myself, but which is also a part of myself. Reiki goes beyond the mind to connect with universal consciousness, all-knowing self and spirit. At that time, I was juggling a full-time job and looking after our three boys: Tadhg, age 6, Myles, age 3 and Ruairi, age 1. So, life, you could say, was hectic. But even the night routine for the boys was teeth, story and Reiki. Minor ailments like coughs and colds, stomach pains, headaches, etc., were all managed through Reiki. Reiki automatically boosts your immune system. I could see that the boys were not succumbing to normal childhood ailments, or if they did, I would Reiki them for whatever time was needed until they got over the issues, generally with their own energy. I was always healthy, luckily, so I didn’t see any physical changes for myself. I was becoming happier, peaceful and more relaxed. After Reiki Level 2, in January 1998, I knew I wanted to share my Reiki more and work with other people. Then, in September 2000, I did my Reiki Advanced Practitioner Level. My yearning was to start working at Reiki, but in my mind the question was, “How?” We had 3 young chil- dren, a mortgage, and I was well paid, with a pensionable, professional job. It didn’t seem possible. Then, I came across a course called “The Landmark Forum” in February 2002. In this weekend course, I got to understand that anything is possible. I altered my view of life to “anything is possible”. Within 4 months, I had resigned from twenty years in the Pharmaceutical Industry and set up my own Reiki Practice as a Reiki Teacher and Practitioner. It all happened in 2002. By then, a group of eighty Reiki people from around Ireland met to start up a Professional Reiki Body in Ireland. I joined and, with others, we wor- ked together to establish Reiki Federation Ireland. I became their first PRO. Reiki Federation Ireland is voluntarily run by enthusiastic Reiki Practitioners and Tea- chers who have an interest in promoting Reiki in Ireland and having Reiki Healing available in mainstream health care. Reiki is finding its place and is being integrated into mainstream health, so people can use Reiki for health maintenance for themselves and their families. Follow your heart, listen to your spirit and your body will be at home. When Spirit Calls... by Patricia Sheehan Reiki Practitioners and Teachers can be found on our Website: www.reikifederationireland.com or phone 0879819366 “i knew i had been looking for someThing beyond The confines of my mind and, aT The same Time, i wanTed To connecT To someThing greaTer Than myself, buT which is also a parT of myself”

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Growing up, I always seemed to be just a little bit overweight. Annoyingly, I seemed to store all my excess weight around my ab- domen. My Mum was forever telling me to pull in my stomach. Believe me, I tried eve- ry diet under the sun, from Atkins to Zone, and ended up with lovely slender legs and arms. However, they had very little impact on the size of my stomach. Years later, I studied Naturopathy and Herbal Medicine and learned that my mother was right to be concerned about the size of my abdomen, since abdominal fat is the unhealthiest fat of all. Abdominal fat, or visceral fat as it is also known, is metaboli- cally active fat. It interferes with the fat bur- ning hormone leptin and it renders insulin ineffective. It is like an alien life-form doing everything in its power to ensure survival. Abdominal / visceral fat is mainly stored internally amongst our organs; it feels solid and tends to push out our waist measu- rement. External fat is soft and tends to hang over the tops of our trousers as love handles. Numerous scientific studies have shown that the size of your waist is a very reliable marker for how healthy you are and how healthy you will be in the future. The larger your waist measurement, the more predisposed you are to diabetes, heart disease, stroke and even certain cancers in women. So, for those of us that want to target this unhealthy fat, what is the best way to go about it? As I experienced, abdominal fat is very tough to get rid of and usually requires a bit more cunning than just eating less. There are 3 main things that ensure this fat’s survival: 1 Poor blood sugar control – mainly due to eating fast releasing carbohydrate foods (white foods), not eating protein, fat and fibre with meals, and not eating regu- lar meals. It can also be due to chromium deficiency. 2 Liver congestion – Your liver is your fat burning organ. When it becomes sluggish or congested, your metabolism slows down. 3 Stress – The stress hormone cortisol causes a surge in blood sugar which is then stored as fat. Stress also causes us to crave the wrong foods like crisps and chocolate. To help my clients (and myself) to tackle this abdominal fat, I use a unique program designed by a company called System Slim. This company was founded by Naturo- paths in New Zealand and is the healthiest approach to weight loss that I have ever come across. The System Slim program consists of healthy eating plans combined with natu- ral supplements to tackle the three main causes of abdominal fat discussed above. On the program, you receive ‘eating plan’ and ‘weight loss’ booklets, a personalised health report, private consultations and three supplements. In New Zealand, they don’t believe in using artificial ingredients. As a result, all supplements are made from natural ingredients and are high quality, high strength formulations. There are two herbal supplements. Cleanse Plus is designed to cleanse the liver with herbs like barberry, milk thistle and yellow dock, as well as cleansing the lymphatic system and kidneys with clea- vers. Weight Manager helps to metabo- lise fat and naturally curbs appetite with calcium and turmeric. Both herbal sup- plements contain adaptogen herbs like gotu kola, ginseng and schizandra which help the body adapt to stress. The third supplement is a multivitamin / multimi- neral formula which is particularly high in chromium and B complex needed to clam the nerves, balance blood sugar and metabolise food. I have been very happy with this program as all of my clients are losing unhealthy abdominal fat. One of my clients lost 6 inches off her waist in the first month and her waist was only 38 inches to begin with. Before I signed up to work with the company, I tried the pro- gram and went from a 32 inch waist to a much healthier 30 inch waist in the first month. My newfound flatter stomach did not go unnoticed, on my last visit home, my Mum tapped me on my shoulder and whispered in my ear, “I didn’t want to say it in front of everyone, but you are loo- king lovely and slim.” posiTive nuTriTion A Slim Victory By Niamh Fitzgerald For more info, visit www.systemslim.ie34 “i Tried every dieT under The sun, from aTkins To Zone, and ended up wiTh lovely slender legs and arms. however, They had very liTTle impacT on The siZe of my sTomach.”

New Zealand Weight Management Program Available in Ireland To fi nd your nearest clinic, phone 01 275 0813 www.systemslim.ie Let us teach you how to lose weight and keep it off in the most natural way. NO prepackaged foods NO bloodtests NO milkshakes NO meal replacements NO unrealisti c expectati ons Lose weight using real food and great support! Practi ti oners To open a System Slim clinic, email ciara@systemslim.ie

Spagyrics is the application of alchemical methods to the production of natural plant- based remedies. It merges together herbal medicine, homeopathy, Bach Flowers essen- ces, Schüssler tissue salts and trace elements in a holistic, therapeutic system. Spagyric essences rebalance the three dimensions of the human being - physical, emotional and spiritual - to encourage the natural healing processes. The essences contain the whole curative power of the plant, magnified by the pre- paration process. The resulting ‘spagyric essence’ rebalances the human being in an energetic approach. It does not work as a chemical remedy, but provides a message or information, giving the body the means to restore equilibrium, a little bit like homeo- pathic remedies, although these are not prepared in the same way. The specific manufacturing process of spa- gyric essences eliminates the toxic chemical molecules that limit the use of certain plants in herbal medicine. The resulting spagyric essence is therefore non-toxic and devoid of side effects; consequently it does not interfe- re with any other treatments that the patient could be undergoing simultaneously. They offer an alternative when allopathic medicine has not solved the problem satis- factorily or when the patient chooses another approach such as natural and gentle solu- tions. They can not only be used internally as drops, but may also be incorporated in an ointment to complement the treatment by an external application. Spagyric essences bring relief to almost all diseases, whether acute or chronic and are also perfectly suited for prophylactic use. Although based on ancient alchemical concepts, the essences are produced in licensed laboratories in Germany and Swit- zerland to the same standards as modern drugs. Independent pharmacists supervise the production, and each spagyric essence has a Certificate of Analysis in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Even a lengthy use does not yield adverse effects. The spagyric essences can be used concomitantly with any other treatment as there is no risk of interaction or interfe- rence. They can be given to everybody, from infants to the elderly and also to pregnant or lactating women. Patients often come to a therapist loo- king for the relief of physical symptoms, and spagyric essences are ideally suited for this approach, but their great strength lies elsewhere. Energy therapy practitioners know well that the symptom is only the tip of the iceberg and that behind it lurks emo- tional sufferings. While allopathic doctors, in general, focus on reducing the symptoms, natural practitioners help their patients to understand why the disease happened, in order to ensure healing. According to the concept of holistic medicine, healing the mind and body always goes hand in hand. Spagyric essences help the patients to evol- ve mentally, to understand the real cause of their disease. Paracelsus (Alchemical genius of the Middle Ages) focused on stimulating the patient’s self-healing forces. Complete healing of a disease does not come by only alleviating symptoms; it must also cure the emotions and fears that may have triggered it. In our modern world, where we spend so many hours ‘communicating’ with each other through cell phones, pagers and computers, we are more out of touch with our own bodies and spirits than ever before. We tend to treat physical pain or ailments with syn- thetic drugs and physical aids, but ignore the ‘invisible’ causes behind them. Spagyric essences successfully treat the psychic troubles, such as anguish or depres- sion, that sometimes accompany other ill- nesses. They are very useful in decreasing the impact of a shock (e.g. bad news, broken heart or bereavement), and help the patient to handle the situation better. They accom- pany a personal development approach, can strengthen self-confidence, and encourage the patient to adopt a positive mental atti- tude despite the vicissitudes of life. Spagyric essences are useful in countless circumstances. There is no need to be phy- sically ill to benefit from them. They can accompany human beings in all stages of life. Their approach to disease and health is radi- cally different from therapies aimed only at the alleviation of the symptoms. The goal in a Spagyric Treatment is to guide the patient in their search for the cause of their troubles, to uncover the factor(s) that triggered the problem, in order to ensure healing. Seminars on Phylak-Spagyric essences in the UK and on the continent have been ongoing since 1999. They are designed for all healthcare professionals or non- professional participants interested in complementary practice, energy medicine and medicinal plants. In 2010, seminars are scheduled for Ireland too. For further information, visit www.spagyricmedicine.com or email jag.naidu3@ntlworld.com Spagyric Essences naTural planT-based remedies for The new era “energy Therapy pracTiTioners know well ThaT The sympTom is only The Tip of The iceberg and ThaT behind iT lurks emoTional sufferings.” 36 By Elisabeth Bindschaedler

Phylak Phylak Spagyrics Spagyric Essence Therapy is a Wonderful Marriage of Modern Herbal Medicine, Classical Homeopathy, Aromatherapy and Mineral Therapy Complements Other Therapies and Treats the Whole Person Can be Used Alongside Allopathic Medicine Used for Detoxification, Chronic Fatigue, Cancer Treatment Support Tailor-made Remedies for Every Ailment Learn More about this Natural Method of Health Care at: Introductory Seminar On Spagyrics on Saturday, Oct. 9th, 2010, Wynns Hotel, Dublin, 10.am to 4.00 pm Advanced Seminar on Spagyrics/Focus on New Developments, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2010 in The Ardilaun Hotel, Galway, 10.00 am to 4.00 pm CPD certificate issued to attendees To Register, email: jagnaidu3@ntlworld.com or write to Phylak Sachsen UK Ltd., 403 Parmentergate Court, St John’s Street, Norwich, Norkfolk, UK, NR1 1PF. Registration Fee: €80 More Information at http://www.spagyricmedicine.com Spagyric Seminars I Counselling and Psychotherapy Marni Rothman, M.A. Integral Counselling Psychology Dublin Holistic Centre confidential voicemail 01 442 9657 • www.rothmantherapy.com                 

Oriental Medicine and the Emotions 38 by Deirdre Courtney (M.A.) Head of Acupuncture Department, CNM The Chinese have known for thousands of years that our emotions impact the state of our health. There is a lot we can gain from understan- ding this oriental viewpoint. In Chinese medicine, emotions are seen as energy passing through the meridians, and when allowed to flow freely and unconstrained, we stay in balance. If we block emotions, our organs can be affec- ted. So whether we are angry with someone, grieving for a loss, or feeling overwhelmed, acknowledgement and expression of such feelings creates healthy organs and a positive energy flow. In Chinese medicine, there are five major Yin organs: the liver, heart, spleen, lungs and kidney. Each organ is associated with an emotion: the liver - anger; the heart - joy; the spleen - worry; the kidney - fear; the lungs - sorrow or grief. Excess of any of these emo- tions can affect the related organ. Suppres- sion of any of these emotions can also affect the organ. It is a circular process in that, if the organ is weak, it can increase the related emotion. Too much repressed emotion can stagnate the liver energy; too much worry can affect the spleen; stress, overwork or living in fear of something can affect the kidney; hurt or loss of a relationship can affect the heart; a bereavement can affect the lungs. Often we may appear well, in terms of hav- ing no overt pathology, but we may be ener- getically or emotionally out of balance. Have a look at the different patterns below and see if you can relate to any of them. The good news is that we can take steps to change these patterns and feel strong emotionally. 1 liver Qi sTagnaTion if you find yourself sighing frequently, fee- ling irritable and frustrated or feeling prone to temper outbursts, it may be that energe- tically your liver energy has stagnated. One of the main causes for this is repressed emo- tion: holding in or onto too many feelings. Accompanying physical symptoms can in- clude belching, burping, acid regurgitation or a sour taste in the mouth. If this picture sounds familiar and you want to move that stagnant liver qi, there are some easy steps to take. The liver needs movement, emotion needs expression, so get out and exercise, breathe deeply out in fresh air, express your feelings, try writing a journal or pounding a pillow. Green is the healing colour for the liver, so walk in beautiful greenery and eat lots of green foods. 2 spleen Qi deficiency Do you sometimes find yourself excessively ruminant, prone to worry or find you are getting deep frown lines or bags under your eyes? If so, you may be prone to imbalance in the spleen organ. The spleen energy ru- les digestion and is negatively affected by worry. Too much worry injures the spleen, and a weakened spleen energy leaves us more prone to worry. Accompanying phy- sical symptoms may include feeling really tired (especially after eating), loose bowel movements, and bloating or weight gain

sugar system. If your blood sugars are out of balance, follow all the same recommenda- tions as above but add some essential fatty acids to your regimen. They are wonderful in helping to balance the system. Also eat two apples per day to ensure enough fi bre. Fibre stabilises blood sugars. Good sources include legumes, oats, nuts, seeds, pears and vegetables. Avoid caffeinated tea, coffee and ciga- rettes; all of which can cause both an adrenal response and a huge blood sugar fl uctuation. Take frequent exercise (ideally every day): weight bearing and cardiovascular. Weight bearing exercises in particular affect our glu- cose tolerance factor, so even lifting gentle weights can keep our blood sugars in check for up to 48 hours. They can also bring out the warrior in us and ground our energies, giving us a stable base to work from and keeping our minds in balance. SEROTONIN LEVELS: Serotonin is a happy neurotransmitter that plays a major role in transmitting messages in the nervous system. When it is plentiful, we feel wonderful about the world, even if it is posing challenges. Our stores of serotonin can run low particularly if over a period of time our cortisol levels have been elevated, our blood sugars swinging and our gut func- tion disturbed. Signs of low serotonin include feeling ove- rwhelmed, lowered mood, insomnia, lack of motivation and feeling that we are not good enough. Serotonin is naturally produced by the body from the amino acid tryptophan. The tryptophan is converted into serotonin, but in order for the conversion to take place we need to be eating really well; ideally a diet which is nutrient dense and full of high life-force foods. We also need to make sure our gut function is good by including lots of prebiotics (garlic, onions, etc.) and probiotics and avoiding high sugar and high fat foods. With good gut function and by following all the recommendations above, and by including plenty of tryptophan rich foods in our daily diet (turkey, chicken, avocado, banana, milk, tomato, chocolate, pineapple and plums) our serotonin will be optimal. All our systems are inter-related. The adre- nals affect the blood sugar metabolism and gut function which affect brain chemistry. When these systems are in balance we feel poised to take on the obstacles of the times we live in, and indeed because we are posi- tive and energised we help to make a better world. In a season of gifts, the best gift we can give to ourselves is to honour and sup- port our physiology. Avril Ivory (M.Sc.Dip.nat) is a naturopath and health psychologist. She is the Academic Director of the College of Naturopathic Medicine in Ireland. CNM run free and reduced rate clinics in the city centre and in Dun Laoghaire. If you would like to be a patient at a clinic, contact Eileen on 012353094. NEW CNM SHORT COURSE STARTING The College of Naturopathic Medicine is offering a 12 week evening course on ‘Nutrition for Everyday Living’ starting on Tuesday Feb 2nd 2010 in Griffi th College, Dublin. For bookings or information on our NEW course or any of our courses, call 01-2353094, email dublininfo@naturopathy-ireland.com or see www.naturopathy.ie PL_winter_09_d1.indd 4330/11/2009 14:29:16 which is difficult to loose (especially around the middle). If you think this applies to you, make this a summer to support your spleen. Decide to deal with worries differently; adopt new coping mechanisms; relegate your worries to one of three categories: alter what is worry- ing you, accept what is worrying you or avoid (only where possible) each worry. Build your resistance to worry by doing what makes your heart sing. Certain foods weaken spleen energy (wheat, dairy, coffee), so reduce these and eat smaller amounts more often, and try not to eat late at night. 3 kidney yin deficiency Do you often feel that you are running on empty, using your reserve tank rather than energy that is easily available to you? Do you often ignore the red light on your dash- board that tells you you are doing too much? Does this sometimes leave you feeling ove- rwhelmed and fearful? You might have other symptoms like flushed cheeks, sweating at night, feeling thirsty, lower back pain, lots of transverse lines on the forehead, or find your willpower diminished. This all points to kidney yin deficiency. It is often a sign of overwork and indicates a need for more rest and relaxation to strengthen the kidney energy. Have regular early nights, reduce your workload, look at a good work/ life balance chart (there are lots online). Con- nect with water and earth by swimming, and walking on the grass in your bare feet. Yoga and meditation all help to increase kidney energy. Foods that strengthen the kidney are black mushrooms, pulses and mineral rich foods such as seaweeds. 4 hearT yin deficiency If you are feeling anxious or panicky, if you are prone to sleep disturbance or are having vivid dreams, if you are feeling disconnec- ted from friendships or pastimes that you usually enjoy, you may have heart yin de- ficiency. If your face is flushing easily and you feel worse after alcohol or spicy food, if you are getting palpitations, then you may have heart yin deficiency. This imbalance is often seen with practitioners or carers who are constantly giving and using up their yin energy. It can also happen after a period of emotional stress or hurt. It is important to take time out to nourish this yin energy. Si- milar to kidney yin deficiency, you may need more rest, you may need to retreat a little in order to renew. Increase activities that calm and nourish you, be good to yourself and surround yourself with colours and landsca- pes that nurture. Use deep breathing, yoga, visualisation or meditation. Avoid too much fire in the diet by reducing spicy foods, alco- hol and sugar. Increase cooling foods such as green vegetables and beetroot. Our bodies often give us clues as to what we need to do to rebalance, make this a season where you listen to your body’s inner wisdom and enjoy a wonderful summer! If you are interested in training in Complementary medicine, CNM are running open evenings over the coming weeks: 14th June, 28th June, 12th July Griffith College, Dublin. 16th June, 30th June, 21st July. Ambassador Hotel, Cork. To find out more information or to book a place, call 012353094 or email dublininfo@ naturopathy-ireland.com

Ayurveda is an ancient natural health scien- ce that believes in maintaining a balance of energies within the body in accordance with the external environment in which it resi- des. According to Ayurveda, everything in the universe is composed of 5 elements and the- se elements manifest as 3 Doshas (energies): Vata (Ether & Air), Pitta (Fire & Water) and Kapha (Water & Earth). With each season, an accumulation, alleviation or aggravation of one or more Doshas may occur, affecting our bodies either positively or negatively. The study of seasons is called Rtucharya and it provides information on diet, cleanses, her- bal medicines and activities best suited to any particular season. This seasonal aware- ness allows us to live in balance and harmony with our environment. Although Ayurveda offers a fairly straight- forward approach to health, the complexities lie with balancing individual differences combined with seasonal variations. Nothing can be isolated and the whole picture must be examined before a problem is addressed or a solution sought. Awareness about your individual Dosha will allow you to comple- tely embrace the Ayurvedic lifestyle. Every person’s body is made up of the 3 Doshas in varying proportions, often with a predominance of one or more Dosha, or a combination such as “Vata Pitta”, “Pitta Kapha” or “Vata Kapha”. Each season will therefore affect people in different ways depending upon their constitution and health. Ayurveda seeks to balance the body before it becomes aggravated. It anticipates imba- lances before they arise, and in so doing, takes the correct measures to avoid or reduce the severity of the problem. The Ayurvedic year is divided into 6 dis- tinct seasons: Spring, Summer, Rains, Autu- mn, Early Winter and Late Winter. Contrary to popular belief, what we typically believe to be summer (May until August) is actually made up of 2 specific seasons, namely Sum- mer and the Rainy season. Summertime is heralded by an energetic shift around mid-May; this lasts until mid July when it shifts again to the Rainy season. Luckily for us residing in Ireland, we do not experience the extremes of any season. Summer does not bring searing heat and dryness and the Rainy season does not trans- late into monsoons. Nevertheless, Summer in Ireland does follow the predetermined energetic pattern that Ayurveda suggests. Vata (Ether & Air) is the main Dosha that accumulates during the summer months, but if the summer heat is excessive, Pitta (Fire & Water) may become slightly aggrava- ted. Kapha (Water & Earth) is the only Dosha that is alleviated during summer, hence why it’s easier to lose weight. To harmonize the body and offset external environmental factors there are a number of prescribed lifestyle and dietary recom- mendations. According to Ayurveda, this is the only time of year that laziness is actually prescribed. Siestas, gentle strolls and spen- ding time soaking up nature’s splendour are all prescribed, whilst reducing strenuous tasks and arduous exercise is advised. Ancient texts suggest the cool environments of rivers, streams and ponds are ideal for summertime. Ayurveda pays close attention to the 6 tas- tes in ones diet (Sweet, Sour, Salty, Pungent, Bitter & Astringent) as taste expresses the 5 elements manifesting in food. The external environment also has tastes. During the summer months, the Pungent taste (Air / Fire) is dominant, and to balance this some bitter foods and sweet tastes are advisable as they cool and soothe the body. Avoid foods and drinks that promote dryness and heat, such as heavy, pungent, salty or sour tasting food. Generally, sweating is more frequent during the summer, and as a result, electro- lytes and fluid are lost from the body. Also as a result, further drying can take place if the body is not adequately hydrated. Extra water alone is not sufficient as the body requires taste to process fluid properly. The Ayurvedic system recommends that you add flavour to your water, e.g. add a small amount of elderflower or rose cordial, a dash of pure juice or a squeeze of lime and ginger. Hydra- tion is also assisted by consuming ripe fruits (summer stone fruits, berries, etc.) and cooling vegetables (leafy greens, salads, etc.), as they are essentially full of water, but have the added benefit of taste and vitamins. Many medicinal herbs can also be used to aid the cooling and soothing action sought, such as elderflower, marshmallow, rose, aloe vera, nettle, sandalwood, jasmine, etc. The bottom line for this time of year is that it’s advisable to be flexible with your routine and avoid any extremes. Doug Hyde is the Ayurvedic practitioner at Satmya. For more info, visit www.satmya.com Ayurveda for Summer By Doug Hyde 37 positive tip The herbal mix Triphala is used to promote appetite and digestion, increase the number of red blood cells, and aid in the removal of undesirable fat in the body. When dissolved in the mouth, Triphala is used to clear congestion and headaches. Other claimed benefits include helping maintain normal blood sugar levels, as well as improvement in skin tone and colour. 40

Phoenix Al- chemy We off er Health workshops/Courses Yoga classes for Kids, Teens and Adults Ayurvedic Body Treatments Health Consultations/ Coaching Ayurvedic Herbs Fat loss packages Youthing packages And more…. www.amrutaayurveda.com Personal Quest Workshops » Do you want to make significant changes in some area of your life? » Are you at a crossroads and wondering what next? » Are you getting caught up in over-thinking and need a fresh perspective? You could address these questions at a Personal Quest Workshop as you explore: » What is your call to adventure and what holds you back » What do you need to cross the threshold and commit to your call to adventure » e main challenges you will face and how will you address them “I got 2 year’s worth of learning and growth in 2 days!” – previous workshop participant For further information contact Peter Mohan on 087-2833925 or peter.mohan@phoenix-alchemy.com or check out www.phoenix-alchemy.com Your Health is Your Best Asset! NATURAL SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYDAY HEALTH PROBLEMS Ayurveda & Naturopathy 3 Royal Pde, Killaloe, Co. Clare 061 622751 www.satmya.com TRADITIONAL MEDICINE CLINIC & AYURVEDIC DAY SPA Find us...

Vegetables have become more prominent in the Irish diet. They certainly have moved to the centre of the culinary stage in recent years. Many more people – not just vegeta- rians – now see vegetables as the heart of the meal, and meat sometimes as an accompa- niment. The Irish obsession has moved on from potatoes to broccoli, a vegetable that has become synonymous with the word anticar- cinogenic. “Raw broccoli contains almost as much calcium as whole milk and is linked to lowering the risk of cancer.” (1. Whole Foods Companion, Dianne Onstad) Working at The Organic Centre for almost 10 years, I have witnessed the growing inte- rest in gardening and growing vegetables organically. Home grown vegetables are valued more highly now not only for their flavour but also for their nutritional value as part of a healthy diet. At the same time, more and more new vegetables have appeared on the market. No restaurant with any sort of reputation is without oriental vegetables on the menu. “Two qualities of these vegetables imme- diately impressed me. Firstly, they can be grown fast and intensively. … Secondly, many are highly nutritious. … They seemed tailor-made for our overcrowded, health Garlic Some of the most popular traditional uses of garlic have been for treating colds, coughs, yeast infections, asthma, leprosy, bronchial congestion and gall bladder trouble. “Garlic is good for the heart, a food for the hair, a stimulant to appetite and a strength-giving food,” it is also believed to be anticarcinogenic. OniOn Research has shown onions to have strong anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic actions, which could be why they are the starting point of choice for the cuisine of so many cultures around the world. TOmaTO Lycopene, an antioxidant which gives tomatoes their lovely, rich red colour, helps remove free radicals from the body. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules and have been implicated in cancer and other serious diseases. Lycopene is the most potent nutritional antioxidant found to date. In the body, lyco- pene is deposited in the liver, lungs, prostate gland, colon and skin. Its concentration in body tissues tends to be higher than all other carotenoids. I think preference should always be given toward those that are freshest and in season. Research has shown that the tastiest and most nutritious vegetables are those con- sumed immediately after harvesting. The longer vegetables are exposed to air, heat and water, the less nutritious they will be. This brings me back to the beauty of growing some of our food ourselves, which means we have the freshest produce avail- able for the kitchen table. And we organic gardeners strongly believe (backed-up by numerous researchers) that the nutrition of each vegetable is influenced by the soil and any fertilization it has received during its growth. Healthy, nutritious soil will produce healthy, nutritious vegetables, and growing organically avoids herbicides and pesticides and artificial fertilizers. And if you don’t grow your own, at least buy them as locally as possible. And remem- ber, the most nutritious vegetables are best eaten raw! posiTive food The Wonder of Vegetables by Hans Wieland conscious times.” (Oriental Vegetables, first published 1991) Many vegetables (and fruits) are nutritional powerhouses, rich in vitamins A and C, beta- carotene and fibre. Diets rich in vitamins C and beta-carotene are strong protectors against heart disease, cancer and almost all other diseases. Antioxidants are compounds that defend our body against cell damage caused by various free radicals. They are best taken from the natural diet rather than in the form of supplements. Understanding the complex chemical nature of our food is a very recent science and with laboratory techniques developed in the 20th century the importance of Vita- mins and Minerals was finally highlighted in addition to carbohydrates, proteins and fats. However, with greater knowledge comes the realization of how little we know. Point in case is the new research into micro-nutrients and their power in our metabolism. Even if we all now accept that a healthy diet should include at least five fruit and vegetable servings to keep fit, which fruits and which vegetables should we eat? Among the vegetables that have been iden- tified by scientists as loaded with “medicinal properties” are garlic, onion and tomato. Upcoming courses at The Organic Centre, Rossinver, Co. Leitrim: Organic Gardening for Beginners May 1st and June 5th, Introduction to Vegan Cooking May 22nd, Raw Food “Un”cooking June 19th. www.theorganiccentre.ie Recommendations for further reading: “Whole Foods Companion” by Dianne Onstad, “The Vegetable Book” by Colin Spencer, “Eat Right 4 Your Type” by Dr. Peter D’Adamo, “Ani’s Raw Food Kitchen” by Ani Phyo 42

Two day HEALING WORKSHOP Guru Dev has been a MASTER of YOGIC HEALING since 1989. Acclaimed in America and Europe as one of the greatest healers of our time. He is responsible for the Int. School of Sat Nam Rasayan which is renowned for producing some of the  nest healers in Europe. A Training has now begun in Ireland. Taking place on June 6 / 7 at “ e Grand Canal Hotel” Grand Canal Street, Dublin 4. For all information go to www.satnamrasayan.ie or contact Har Kirat at 0863722653 - HarKiratKaur@ireland.com ENJOY A VERY INSPIRING WEEKEND AND COME AWAY WITH HEAlING TECHNIQUES THAT WILL BENEFIT YOU AND GIVE YOU POWERFUL TOOLS TO HELP OTHERS      Two day HEALING WORKSHOP

posiTive food Summer Recipes There is nothing nicer than sharing a meal with family and friends on a warm summers day, Al Fresco! A Mezze plate is ideal, where you have several cold dips and salads served with some good bread, where everyone can pick and choose and everything can be prepared in advance so that you get to relax with a glass of wine. I have chosen two roast vegetable salads which, with chickpeas or beans and lentils adding some protein, form a substantial meal served with a leafy green salad, hummus and delicious 5 seed flat breads made with spelt flour. mediTerranean roasT vegeTables and chickpea salad wiTh creamy roasT garlic dressing Directions Chop all the vegetables into approximate inch size cubes and put into a large roasting tin so they are in one layer. Leave out the sundried tomatoes. Pour on the olive oil, sprinkle on the oregano, salt and pepper and mix to coat. Choose 8 good size garlic cloves. Leave on their outer papery co- vering and slice off the bottom of each clove. Wrap them loosely in tin foil and put next to the vegetables to roast. Roast for 30 minutes on gas mark 6 or electric 200. Remove the veg and the garlic from the oven and leave to cool. Put the veg into a bowl and stir in the drained chickpeas and the sun dried tomatoes. To make the dressing: Measure out the ingredients into a small bowl. When the garlic is cool enough to handle squeeze each clove from its papery cover into the dressing ingredients. Whizz with a hand blender until thick and creamy. Stir the dressing into the vegetables and chickpeas. In a serving bowl arrange some mixed lettuce leaves and spoon over the roast vegetable mixture. Scatter with the feta cheese (if using), olives and some chopped parsley.Liz Nolan is a Nutritional Therapist based in Moycullen and Health and Herbs Sea Rd, Galway. For more information on Vegetarian Wholefood Cookery Classes, Zest4life Nutrition and Weight Loss Programmes or Nutritional Consultations, please ring 0868099604 or email liz.leagaun@gmail.com or see the website www.wholefoodmatters.com 44 1 tin of chickpeas 1 aubergine chopped into inch small cubes 1 red and 1 orange pepper chopped as above 1 medium red onion diced 1 large courgette chopped as above 10 cherry tomatoes 8 sun dried tomatoes finely sliced 8 good size garlic cloves 2 teaspoon of dried oregano 1 tsp salt few grinds of black pepper 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil DrESSinG 8 roasted cloves of garlic 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp cider vinegar 1 tsp smooth dijon mustard 1 tsp honey feta cheese and black olives for garnish.

To read the extended version of this article, including plenty of nutritional information and another way to cook the 5 Seed Spelt and Oat bread as a Loaf, visit www.positivelife.ie lemony hummus 1 tin of chickpeas drained (but reserve 2 tbsp of the water) – use organic if possible and in unsalted water or 8 oz cooked chickpeas Juice and zest of 1 lemon 1 garlic clove chopped roughly 1 tsp salt 2 tbsp tahini light or dark 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp chickpea water handful of chopped coriander leaves or parsley or both Directions Put all the ingredients except coriander or parsley in a food proces- sor and process until smooth; or mash the chickpeas with a potato masher, crush the garlic and add, stir in the oil, tahini, lemon juice and zest, salt and reserved chickpea water and mix well. Spoon into a serving dish and sprinkle with the coriander or par- sley. Hummus is a versatile dish. Use it as a starter with crudités – sticks of carrots, celery and cucumber, or fill a pita bread with hummus and salad for lunch. It also serves as a topping for vegetables or curry. Try a spoonful in soups. Vary the consistency – for a stiffer mix omit the chickpea water or add more for a thinner sauce like consistency. five seed spelT and oaT flaTbreads (if you don’t have time to make these, try the food doctor’s pitta bread available in Tesco) 10 oz wholemeal spelt flour 2 oz porridge oats 1 oz each of pumpkin, sunflower, sesame and flaxseed seeds 1 oz quinoa 1 tsp dried easy blend yeast 1 tsp salt 1 tsp honey 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 9/10 fl oz warm water Directions Turn on the oven to its lowest setting – gas mark 1 or 50 electric. Put all the dry ingredients into a large bowl. Make a well in the centre and add the oil and honey. Heat the water – it must be warm enough for the yeast to work, but if it is too hot, it will kill the yeast. Pour in the water and mix – start with 9 fl oz and, if it isn’t enough, add the rest – it needs to be a little sticky but not too wet to han- dle. Turn out onto a floured board or surface and, with floury hands, shape into a log and divide into 8 pieces. Shape each piece into an oval about 1 inch thick. Place on a floured baking tray. Place in the middle of the oven and leave for 20/25 mins to rise a little. Turn up the heat to gas mark 6 or 200 electric and bake for 20 mins - until lightly browned. Place on a cooling rack and, when cold, slice open and use with the hummus, salads, soups or anything you like! These freeze well. buTTernuT sQuash and puy lenTil salad wiTh feTa cheese in balsamic dressing Directions Cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Place on an oiled baking tray. Mix together the olive oil and the tamari and liberally brush the cut side of the squash. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes gas mark 6 or 200 electric until the flesh is just tender. Leave to cool and then scoop out the flesh with a spoon and chop into small dice. Leave aside. To make the lentils: Rinse the lentils under a tap in a sieve. Put into a lidded saucepan with the other ingredients. Bring to the boil and tthen simmer for 20 minutes until just soft. Season with some salt and pepper and leave to cool. To make the dressing: Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a large bowl. When the lentils are cool mix gently with the squash together with the dressing. Line the bottom of the serving dish with rocket and pile on the squash and lentil mix. Scatter with feta cheese and toasted seeds and serve. Butternut squash 1 butternut squash 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp tamari Puy lentils 4 oz puy lentils 8 fl oz water 1 clove garlic crushed 1 tsp dried thyme 1 bay leaf salt and pepper Dressing 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar 2 tsp tamari 1 tsp honey 1 bunch of rocket and 2 oz feta cheese cubed and some mixed toasted seeds to serve

The Dublin Holistic Centre has moved… to a beautiful new premises on 28 South William St., Dublin 2. To celebrate, we would like to offer you a treatment of your choice for €50, thats a €20 discount for positive life readers. Choose from Acupuncture, Osteopathy, Aromatherapy massage, Ayurvedic Massage, Holistic Massage, Holistic Facial, Homeopathy, Allergy Testing, Life Coaching, Hypnotherapy, Counselling, Reflexology, Herbal Medicine and Clairvoyant healing OR two free yoga, pilates or bellydancing classes! Phone 01-4433-400 or email info@dublinholisticcentre.com and quote “positive life” €50 offer. Granny Maddocks Pantry is a Gluten and Wheat Free Homemade Bakery. We are at the Farmers Market in Waterford on a Saturday. Phone 087 7620730 /051 833878. We sprinkle them liberally with diŐerent seeds to maximize the health beneő ts you get. The result is yummy crispbread full of minerals and vitamins - this is real food! Visit us at the Rude Health Show in September, where we will be waiting with a surprise for you! Check out our website below for more information about our healthy and delicious products. Eden’s Original Organic Spelt Crispbread comes in six tasty varieties. Our crispbreads are all handmade in a family bakery from high quality organic spelt Œ our. Each slice is produced with great care so that you can enjoy the power of spelt with every bite.

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