Journal Entries of The Love Bug

Practice Makes Perfect

2011-03-16T14:01:00.000-04:00

Practice makes perfect they say. Well, we as a human race are definitely being given opportunities to practice at this time. Since the Tsunami & earthquake that hit Japan I have been feeling deep deep waves of sorrow, fear and debilitation. Facing my own inner tsunami of change and transformation....as with many of us. I often feel into "the field" and to clients, friends and family around me and over the past week there has been an increasing feeling of heaviness, sadness and a feeling of being lost.

After reading the latest on my Yahoo homepage, I discovered that the earth has shifted 6.5 inches off its axis and that the earth has sped up yet again, decreasing the length of a standard day - due to the earthquake that occurred on March 11, 2011. And then checking the Astrological report for the day I find out that earth is right in the middle of the two largest planets - Jupiter and Saturn - creating a tug-of-war, a feeling of being pulled....which would ripple right down to confusion, chaos and lack of spiritual clarity....which then ripples into a feeling of isolation, stagnation and feeling completely debilitated.

I felt a sigh of relief to know that something is going on on the larger whole - macro level and that the past week of low energy wasn't just me. Honestly, since returning from Trinidad I had been feeling slightly off, sad, confused, isolated and slightly depressed. I thought, okay, this is normal....I just left my husband with an uncertainty as to when we'd see each other again and faced with decisions as to where we can live while we await immigration paperwork....but the feeling has been lingering...and was getting worse until this morning.

Buddha Sees Shells by Kevin Gerien

I laid in bed, looking out the window and asked spirit to show me the truth of what's happening and why I was feeling the heaviness within me and of many around me. Here's what "they" told me:
"Humanity has just experienced a great shift in awareness, in the form of a world event that has shaken everyone up - whether he or she is conscious of it or not - everyone is being effected right now. From the macro to the micro and back up again. Along humanity's existence there have been many tests, trials, learnings, upheavals and challenges. It has been a part of the great plan for optimal learning and growth. As human consciousness is elevating, becoming more aware of the oneness of all beings, we decide to grow together instead of separate individuals. What effects one, effects all. Therefore major earth changes happen - assisting in the overall evolution and growth of EVERYONE. No one is excluded. You are all being given an opportunity to PRACTICE right now what you have learned thus far. What will you do in the face of great change and chaos? How will you handle fear? What choices will you make when faced with life and death situations?

Many will run, hide, pretend and suppress. However we know a higher way of growing. NOW is the time to practice your ability to create. To create EVERYTHING. You are all such powerful beings of light. It is time to remember this truth. It is time to step into the awareness that you are not separate from your brothers and sisters across the world. That what is happening to them is happening to you - it may not be in your external world such as your home land or environment, however something is happening in the internal - within your emotions, thoughts and spiritual body. You are awakening and growing.

When you practice being of service, loving one another, showing compassion to self and others you actually change the circumstance you are in. You begin to tap into the collective power of intention and manifestation. At this time in human existence, what will you create? What do you want to feel? How can you rise above adversity? It is now time to choose differently. To create your own feeling space. Do you choose love and acceptance? Or fear and despair? Do you choose to create abundantly from joy, from the power of your unique gifts? Or do you cower in loss and fear and stop playing the game altogether?

You are here to practice. It is part of why each of you have come here, in physical form, to practice everything - from grief to joy, creation to destruction. Each opportunity; every moment; every experience - is an opportunity for growth, for spiritual advancement and awakening. Everything! This is your practice. What will you choose? What is your practice? It is now time to choose what you WILL create and practice. Choice-point. Will you choose to create further chaos and pain? Or will choose to create life and joy and oneness and love? You have free will - the choice of practice is in your hands.

We are always here to guide, support and love you. You are never alone on this journey, regardless of what you've been told. This is a collective journey in many single forms. We love you."

After hearing this message I thought, "Wow...okay....lets try it out...Help me to remember. I have nothing to lose from trying." I felt into my gifts...how can be more of service to humanity right now? How can I practice the love more fully that flows through me? ...... In the stillness and silence the answer arrived ....... Share. Write. Love. Heal. Do what you love to do.

And so, here I am - offering this writing as part of my gift, compassion and love for all of humanity.
If you wish to receive healing take a moment to get centered right now. Take a few deep breaths. Close your eyes. Feel the love that is pouring into your heart and being right now. We set the intention to remove, release and clear ALL FEAR; ALL CONFUSION; ALL LACK AND LIMITATION; ALL DESPERATION; ALL SADNESS; ALL ANGER; ALL SCARCITY; ALL SORROW - clearing in the highest and best way, for the highest and best good for all beings everywhere. Breathing into this space of cleansing. Aaahhhh. And from this space of opening we set the intention to be refilled with LOVE; ACCEPTANCE; COMPASSION; TRUST; TRUSTING THE DIVINE PATH AS IT UNFOLDS; TRUTH; INNER KNOWING; PEACE; STILLNESS; AND SUPPORT - feeling the wings of angels surround us, support us, love us and lift our hearts and minds to a higher place - anchoring a higher vision for the earth and all her inhabitants. AND SO IT IS.

Buddha Sees Shells

It is time to practice what we know - and not just from a place of healing or learned spiritual practices...but from a knowing deep inside of us. So what do we know for sure? We know love, we know compassion, we know gratitude, we know how to give. So lets practice that! Lets each practice what we know for sure. If you are drawn to joy - practice being in a state of joy all day long. If you know love - practice feeling or sharing love with self or others. If you know gratitude - practice being grateful for all that you see, from a grain of sand to the budding of a tree to how our heart beats in rhythm. If you know yoga - practice and dedicate your practice outward. Whatever it is you know for sure...put it into practice now. Play with how you can maximize this practice and experience....and then watch how your world around will shift and change and elevate! Rippling out, effecting so many others in a positive wave-chain!

I thank each and every one of you - for being here in this experience at this time in human history. Thank you for your courage, your continued faith, your choice for saying yes to being here and bringing forth all of the amazing light that you are. May your gifts be fully expressed and shared with the world as you practice creating a space - inner and outer - for which you wish to live...created from joy and love and abundance!

Holding all of you in such love,
tara - aka "the love bug", goddess of compassion

New Beginnings from Foundations Past

2011-03-11T01:31:00.002-05:00

New Beginnings from Foundations Past
Have you ever wondered how something you are doing now will effect your future? Or how past events may have an influence on who you are and what you are doing today? Most of the time when we are "in it"...going about our day-to-day activities...we rarely ponder how this action may ripple out and effect future lives, future paths or even where may be going. Until some years later when we stop and reflect on the events of our life and have one of those "aha" moments of complete awareness that the events that have occurred had to happen in such perfect order for this exact moment to unfold as it is! It truly is an amazing phenomenon to witness!!

We never know how one action, one word or one act of kindness may shift or effect the course of another! The ripples are exponential and infinite!

I met with a colleague from my seeming-distant past - a time when we both worked at the Ministry of Health over 5 years ago. It was amazing and wonderful to hear about how his path has unfolded and about the powerful impact he is having on the lives of those he interacts with! I had no idea. This man was always very kind, happy, caring and in the flow of life...his staff have always loved him, followed him from Ministry to Ministry....because of his honesty and integrity. We engaged in conversation about life, inspiration, leadership and the simplicity of a joyful life. I was inspired while speaking with him! He is a Deputy Minister of Children & Youth Services now and shared some of the uplifting day-to-day activities he is involved in, by his own choice and doing. With a deep desire and passion for helping and bettering the lives of others, he took a leap of faith and courage and reached out beyond the call of duty. In wanting to understand the youth of today, especially those who have traveled paths less glamorous, he visited a number of youth detention facilities and just sat and talked with the young individuals about life, how their path brought them to this point, how the programs at the facility could be improved and provided them with an opportunity to be a part of their own self-learning and rehabilitation - candid, open, vulnerable, accepting and compassionate. Instead of shying away from the issues, he took the time and extended a caring hand.

He also started a blog where he shares details of who he is, his life and the realness of his experience. And the best part...his blog is accessible to all of his staff and anyone he comes into contact with! A space of complete honesty and openness....nothing hidden! Full authenticity and integrity! I love it! The power and impact of this is far reaching! People respect and honour who he is! His staff love him! People ask him to speak at Leadership conferences! All because of his honest, open realness and deep passion and love for helping people and wanting to make a difference!

We just never know who, how, where or when we might touch the life of another and make a difference! It's one of the greatest mysteries! And once in a while we get a glimpse of the impact one smile, a gentle word, a gesture of inspiration or a random act of kindness has on another human being...shaping or changing the course of his or her life to a higher place!!!

As I complete this newsletter and article, the radio station harmonized with the writing in expressing the following song by Hootie & the Blowfish:
"One love might make a difference....Might take the walls and tear them down....One light might keep on shinning....If we take One love we spread it around....Same scene played over and over and over now....Same young passion, same red blood....universal language goes unspoken....but only One love.....One love might make a difference...."

Like I said, we just never know how we effect the world around us.....I love the interconnection of all things!!

The Eb and Flow of LIfe

2010-10-28T12:25:00.000-04:00

It has been months since I wrote....on my blog and in general....writer's block? Perhaps. Things shifting and energy being required elsewhere? Feels that way. I feel like so many of us are used to life unfolding and unfolding and unfolding...in certain, predictable ways. However, what happens....what do we experience....how do we feel...when things shift and our "norm" doesn't occur as we feel it should?

Many of us would feel frustrated. Uncertain as to what is happening. Why are things slowed or stopped? Why do I feel so unproductive in this area of my life? We ask all the "whys" as to what isn't happening and often miss what amazing things are instead occurring for us! It may all look and feel different and perhaps has shifted our gears, so to speak. And if we really stop for a moment to take in what is REALLY occurring, we begin to see that EVERYTHING is in DIVINE and PERFECT ORDER! That life is still unfolding for us....just in different ways...changing the scenery for us....to keep us exploring news areas of this wonderful life that we are here experiencing!!!

For me, I had that moment of frustration...wondering why no writing was coming....nothing.....................for days............................and days....................................and days......................

And then.....when I let go of the expectation for any writing to happen....I saw that other areas of my life were opening and unfolding and happening in ways that were so beautiful and inspiring!!! That I was exactly where I needed to be....it's just that it felt different from the "normal" flow I was used to.

It's important for us to follow the natural flow and rhythm of our own life and the cycles that we flow in and out of. Some days or weeks or months you may be on a creative high........other times you may feel tired and can't keep your eyes open.....and yet other moments you may feel the need to travel and be adventurous.....If you feel you want to sleep, sleep. If you feel inspired to write, write. If you want to enjoy weeks with your lover in bliss land, bliss out. Whatever the cycle is that you are in, fully enjoy it! Ride it out! Each of these cycles and moments are unique and will pass and will change. And when a moment passes, things will never unfold exactly the same way as it did ever again.

Instead of judging self for not being creative or not feeling inspired or not being more active or for resting.....enjoy the flow what is occurring, often the down-time and really appreciate WHAT IS happening right then and there! That's when we can fully step into our lives and appreciate each and every moment, cycle and event that occurs!

Just like the leaves that turn from bright green to crimson shades that seem to glow in the fall season....enjoy the transformation that is taking place before your very eyes. Breathe it in! I promise you, life will begin to feel more fulfilling and enriched because you are being present to what is instead of what isn't.

Ride the waves of life and flow with the cycles of change.....

Meditation is for Everyone!

2010-07-16T16:17:00.000-04:00

Last summer I had the honour of working with an Olympic Athlete—a Canadian-born snowboarder who was having difficulty with his mind and focus while on the hill and in his personal life. We worked together with meditation, visualization and clearing techniques to create an inner stillness and peace in his presence which translates in everything that he does, including snowboarding!

Here’s an exerp from one of the articles written in the Toronto Star: “Not that Lambert isn't still fretting about that Olympic spot. He's a worrier by nature. It's learning to deal with that anxiety with the help of a "meditation guru" in Toronto this past summer that's helped turn him from someone who had trouble cracking the top 15 to the third-ranked snowboarder in the world in his specialty this season.”
For a full read of the article:
www.thestar.com/sports/wintersports/article/752034--self-control-michael-lambert-s-new-mantra

Meditation is one of those tools that can assist everyone and anyone in all areas of their life. Meditation decreases overall stress and the stress response in the body, regulates blood pressure, eases digestion and clears the condition of the “monkey-mind” that sooo many of us suffer from!

Meditation doesn’t need to be a long process….even a few minutes every day can make a huge difference.

In teaching meditation classes I often tell students to set aside even a few minutes each day….set a timer….and slowly build up to 20 minutes or so. Even a few minutes will provide an amazing effect on the mind, body and spirit. And to let go of the concept of stopping all thoughts because it is impossible….the mind is a part of us, a part of our very being. It is like an ever-running machine. Imbalances occur when it runs us, which often happens in today’s world. However if can give the mind the right tools and environment, we can learn to have it work with us as opposed to run us. We can still the craze of the mind and the billion thoughts we do have each moment. And can learn to still it enough to feel our own being and center...our own stillness, to begin to hear beyond our ears or everyday perceptions and begin to hear the inner voice...the inner dialogue….the inner guidance of our expanded self.

We begin to receive the answers to the questions we all have. And it’s only in this stillness that we are able to hear clearly, because we are slowing down to listen.

I will also often suggest to students and clients to follow a meditation CD or visualization, something that will give the mind something “positive” to focus on while the body slows down and rests and renews. Then allow some time for just breathing, being and listening to the breath, feeling the breath moving through the body. Allowing the breath to become the mantra.

After a few minutes the body, mind and spirit will synch up, link up and integrate. We begin to feel more grounded and present to life! Which will allows us to feel and experience the fullness of each and every moment!!!

Clarity from Aligning

2010-03-30T18:20:00.000-04:00

Well...the last few months have been a time of major changes, many uncertainties and lack of clarity as to what is next and where I'm going or want to be. So much has been opening up and occurring in Toronto and other parts of Ontario...I fell in love with Canada all over again and have been enjoying my time here! So, I was questioning the reason behind leaving and going back to LA now......As with my last few trips to LA, I've felt uncertain if it was aligned for me to be there. However, every time I journeyed there, amazing things manifested! So here I was again, needing to trust this space of unknown and follow the call to LA for another adventure.

I made the decision to drive down for a few months, leaving tomorrow. But when I woke up this morning, trying to get packed and ready to go I was feeling that same uncertainty, sad to leave all that is here. Instead of sitting in the confusion this time, I stepped out of the house and naturally returned to a place that was familiar and grounding to me, taking a little down time, reconnecting with nature, which always leads to the fullness and alignment of self....so that I could get clear. I went for a walk in a beautiful park in north Toronto! And quite the walk it was....clarity was all around me! It was exactly what I needed! It was amazing!

Have you ever felt or experienced those special moments when it feels as though all is aligning for us...that literally the universe is speaking to us...maybe through a person or a license plate or a billboard sign or nature....? Today I had one of those days.....!

Along my walk, I chose to step off the path most traveled and ventured into the forest a little deeper, closer to the stream that was effortlessly flowing by and found a small opening where the sun shone down so brilliantly, through the circle of trees. It was like a magical little fortress with five trees in a circle....it welcomed me to step into the center of it. It was in that moment that I felt my breath slow right down and expand through my lungs, I could taste the aroma of the spring air, my body and spine came into alignment and I began to tune into the subtle, yet powerful, elements that surrounded me. As I tuned into each of them I felt the firey sun beam stronger, I heard the water rushing over the rocks more clearly, I felt my feet firmly planted like roots into the earth, and experienced the air rushing through the trees and all around me. I felt myself aligning these four elements, like the alchemist, wielding them through the energy of ether - the fifth element that binds them together in unison and harmony!

It was soooo magical.

In that still moment I called upon my guides, ancestors and friends passed and asked for clarity and guidance as to what to do next, where to go next, what was in my highest and best good along this path of creation and life.....

Was I to drive down to LA, beginning tomorrow? Or was I to stay in Toronto and begin to plant some physical roots here again? What was in the highest and best good now?

After asking the questions, I stood in silence, waiting to hear and feel the answers.....
Yes, I felt strongly that it was a good time to depart for LA within the next day or two and not to plant in Toronto just yet....that there were people I was to connect with in LA....there were things to do and experience down there right now. That I would have a lot of fun and meet some wonderful people, that are essential to my path.

In a split moment of doubt, I said, "Okay universe and elements, if this is in fact true, show me a sign, make something happen to verify this...so that I know without a doubt that this is in fact correct....."

Literally, two seconds passed and among the silent forest a dog barked....then again.....I waited and said, "Okay, if that was for me, let him bark one more time...." .....and to my wonderful, pleasant surprise, he did....one more loud, clear, distinct bark. And then all was still and quiet again...not only for the remainder of my time in that magical circle, but for the rest of my walk back.

I felt elated, joyful, grateful, aligned!!!! I thanked the elements of nature, my guides and this special place....I left the sanctuary of the woods and returned back to the trail....as I stepped onto the trail, right in front of my feet, my first steps, was a feather!!! I love it!!! I smiled! I haven't seen a feather on my path in soooo long.....

For the longest time...since I was 12, studying wicca and shamanic traditions, I became tuned into the power of nature, the elements and the significance of feathers on our path....this feather was right in the middle, pointing forward, clear, distinct....a clear directional sign of "YES, you are are on the right path. The way is clear and balanced."

For the remainder of my walk I heard woodpeckers busy in the trees and as I walked past a group of trees, one called out loudly to me! Startled me a little. When I looked at it, it hoped/flew along from tree to tree, following beside me....how amazing I thought...it's following me...what does it have to say? When I got home, I looked up the woodpecker in Ted Andrews book, "Animal Speak".....here are some key points related to the energetic significance of the woodpecker:
- the power of rhythm and discrimination, to stimulate new rhythms and to trust my own unique rhythms and flight patterns....to know that the foundation is there and it is safe to follow own rhythms
- the drumming of the pecking indicates forthcoming changes and the heartbeat of the earth, representing new life rhythms
- the black and white of the woodpecker reflects the need to see things clearly...that things are clear if we look closely and the red on head represents the stimulation and wakening of new mental faculties

How fitting....don't you think?!!

I trust! I trust! I feel clear!! What a beautiful day. Such clarity! So simple.....and all it took was for me to slow down, align, ask the questions, listen for the answers, trust and then receive the clarity! Thank you universe!!!!

Creative Connections in the Air

2009-12-25T15:25:00.000-05:00

On this most recent trip to LA, I didn't have too much of an agenda....I realized quickly in the time leading up to my departure for California that plans really are not what they used to be....as the energies have shifted, so has our concept and sense of time and space. Which in essence alters our ability to make solid plans! My original "plan" was to leave for the south shortly after Canadian Thanksgiving. As things continued to shift, beyond any sense of "control", I chose to completely surrender to the flow of whatever was occurring and allowed the magic of each moment to unfold perfectly in that time and space.

And as always, when we surrender the beauty of each moment, the most incredible gifts arrive! I was honoured to meet many new clients, I connected with a few new soul family girls, I reconnected with an old love in a new way which lead to the opening of my sleeping creative center, I spent valuable time with family and had the opportunity to really just surrender and be with whatever was going to unfold next, without expectation!

So....5 weeks after the "projected" departure date, I boarded the plane and arrived at LAX on November 17! Friends there were asking, "So, what are your plans while you are here? What do you want to accomplish?" In that moment, I honestly answered, "Hmmm, I don't know. I'm just open to the flow of the energy. There are a few things I would like to do. For the most part, I am remaining open to just flow, let be and see what unfolds."

In the first few days of arrival I felt my being adjusting, getting grounding to being in a different space again. Change tends to do that to most of us. So I just allowed myself time to be, go to yoga, take in the ocean, sleep and just observe the space I was in. As I became more and more centered, I clearly could feel the space of stagnation I had been existing in. I wasn't aware of this creative stagnation while I was back in Toronto because I was in it. Which again, is often the case....when we are in the thick of it, we often don't see clearly until we step out, into the unknown and begin to take a birds-eye view or perspective of our life.

As I cleared through the feeling of stagnation and creative blocks, I began to feel lighter and lighter. As I moved through the moments of life I was shown and given experiences to expand upon with regards to writing! The creative process literally blew open! I'm almost finished the writing of one book and started two others as the channel was pouring through me so effortlessly now! I completed the recording a meditation CD, which was so much fun! I connected with others regarding conscious-based projects! It was such a wonderful feeling!

As the journey in LA continued to flow, as did my creativity. I felt more and more radiant. More full. Less of a need to fill with "fillers" - false nourishment. What my body and being was really "craving" was creative flow - the energy and ability to express my life force through me and share it with others! In stepping into this place, I feel a surge of energy and resonance like never before. I feel refreshed, renewed, alive, radiant! And in this openness to receive and express me - fully - becoming more of me, I naturally, without having to do anything, just became it!!

Light! Radiance! Shinning!

Shinning even in times when I didn't feel so shinny. People still sensed it. It's an interesting thing...energy and what we project...especially when we become more of something. People can feel it, sense it even when we think we aren't being that. It's amazing! It showed me the power of energy and light. It really does continue to shine for us - like a reserve, an auto-pilot reserve of energy and light!

People were commenting:
"There's just something about you, you shine."
"You radiant, did you realize that?"
"Your smile is so bright."
"You light people up."
"I sensed something different in you. You glow."

From the beginning of this trip to the return home, there was definitely an opening and realization regarding light projection and creativity and the magic that occurs when we choose to express our unique creative spark!

For example, on my way to Canada I had about 4 hrs of sleep, had been in transit all day, feeling tired and slightly out of it from the frenetic energy at the airports. I wasn't feeling my radiant self and yet I had two incredible, light-filled interactions with two beautiful souls!

The first person, while waiting to board the plane, I felt drawn to. I could sense her essence. I had a feeling we would end up having a conversation. Sure enough, we end up sitting beside each other on the plane! With an open seat between us! We get to talking and she says, "You just have the most radiant smile. I was drawn to it." I share with her how I was drawn to her energy also, she was shinning. We continue to share our stories about life, light, connecting. She, too, very spiritual, with many similarities to my own path. Together, sharing, we radiated. As the plane landed we say how wonderful it was to meet one another, bless each other on our continued paths, and part ways. Such an open-hearted, beautiful encounter!

The second bit of magic occurred while waiting for my connecting flight, in Denver, with a 4-hour layover and gate change three times. Sitting, waiting, feeling good, a little tired and bored. In the crowd of people, all irritated, waiting for the delayed planes, a man walks over to me and asks if this was the connecting gate for Ottawa. We laugh, knowing that it had changed several times in 4 hrs and I had checked the board several times to make sure I was in the right place. As it turns out, I was! I was exactly where I needed to be in that exact moment to connect with the particular person....I just didn't know why yet.....

I noticed his ease and ability to just be, anywhere...sitting on the floor waiting for his charger to finish. In the stillness I tuned into his energy and sensed that he was a part of the music industry somehow. We finally begin boarding the plane and "happen" to be standing beside each other. We start sharing again and sure enough, it turns out he was in LA finishing the production of an album! I share in his excitement with my own with the completion of my meditation CD recording! He continues to tell me that he owns a recording label! And so, the conversation flows on as we talk LA, music, life, healing, travel, the importance of life, expansion and creativity! We share who we are, what we do, what we're working on, the interconnectedness of all things, how like souls can see and recognize like souls. He sensed that there was something different about me. That there was a strong light that he could see in me, that I exude.....and that that was the reason he approached me regarding the gate. I shared with him my reciprocation in sensing his light and creativity.

It was so incredible to have this recognition chat! Two beings seeing each other, supporting one another in our creativity and expression! Which further opened the door to me sharing where I want to go and do next with regards to music and expression!

I sensed between us that we would work together on some creative project at some point. I felt it. We both agreed that we just never know where we intersect and will connect again and who knows who...it's all so elaborate and interconnected! He passes along his business info and mentions for me to get in touch the next time I'm down in LA...that they often gather at the beach, between Santa Monica and Malibu, for a bonfire and jam session! I love it! I love this sort of thing!! All these creative beings - alive, expressing, sharing, open, gathering, radiant!

Before going our "separate" ways we thank each other for sharing and wish each other well on our respective paths once again...like old friends bidding farewell until next time!

We never really know what's in store for us or what is around the corner! It's when we open to the flow of all things, stand in our creative center and take a courageous step into the unknown that all things align and we draw to us people, places and scenarios that further open and expand us and our heart on so many magical levels!!!!

I love it!!!

Receptivity and Creative Flow

2009-12-11T23:55:00.000-05:00

You know, the most incredible things happen when we open to new possibilities and adventures! When we open our heart to receive more of who we really are, we become filled with so much light, love and creativity that it radiates from and permeates through every fiber of our being!! It is like a well-spring of life force! Pure, beautiful, expansive energy that flows through and in us! It is like the elixir of life, of youth - our own personal "fountain of youth" - that uniquely expresses through each of us! It is always present. Always abundant. A limitless supply of life force, creative energy!!!

When we move into this open, receptive, creative space - to allow - we feel rejuvenated and alive! Like a spark igniting our internal flame! And the more we allow, the more we fill, the more we receive. We become a receptical for more positive, life force, creative energy to flow! So much so, that our body, our very cells begin to reflect this light and flow of energy. People start to notice! People can see it, feel it, pick up on it. I've experienced this so many times, especially in times of creative flow! Strangers, people I know, clients....it's the same...they see it, feel it, sense it.

During my time in LA, I really entered into a creative energy space that was so incredibly expansive and vast! My entire being was vibrating! Pulsating with life force! During my travels in LA and during my flight home, I really tuned into the magnitude of what was occurring!

When we consciously allow this flow to infuse with us regularily - when it becomes a part of our life - it literally becomes us. We becomes it! There is no distinction or differentiation. Only expansion! It is all one! It all all connected. We begin to pulsate with a frequency that draws to us similiar frequencies. We get to connect with each other more deeply, more fully, more radiantly! We can sense it in each other! And when we do come across this similiar vibration of energy in another, we want to share it, expand it in each other, support one another and be a part of the other's creation....because we know and feel that together we could create an even greater masterpiece!! There's then no separation. No competition. No comparison. Only connection and igniting! We draw to each other more and more and more. Our life becomes more and more full and radiant! And we WANT to share it!

What happens next.....?

We begin to light others up and elevate together! Our conversations become higher and more conscious. Our interactions become more heart-based, soul-focused. The relations with all become more full, enriched, beautiful, honest, expansive, open. We create a ripple of igniting simply by be-ing, by engaging in and sharing who we are and our own unique, creative expression of light! We being to harmonize - HARMONIC SYMBIOSIS!

(Mikki and Nadia of Elevate Films, soul family! - www.elevatefilms.com)
Frequencies igniting and interacting and blending together in union - connecting like a beautiful song so perfectly orchestrated and arranged. One that uplifts, moves and inspires on so many levels!

....More to expand on in my next post....stayed tuned.....

Second Wave of Gratitude

2009-12-03T12:59:00.000-05:00

Being in the US right now, at this time, has blessed me with the gift of a second Thanksgiving!!! It occurred to me last night, while taking in the radiance of sound, healing, uplifting energy and community at one of the many spiritual churches/centers in California! My friend Pam Gerrand is here in LA at this time also and she graced this spiritual community with her angelic voice....always such a treat to feel the powerful resonance of Pam's spirit flowing through her like a sonic massage! The "sermon", on the American Thanksgiving eve, was based around gratitude, being thankful for all that we have and are blessed with in this life!

As I received I felt soooo incredibly thankful to be reminded of the power of gratitude.....to be receiving this Thanksgiving blessing for a second time this fall! It was wonderful!

Here are a few of the things that I am deeply and powerfully grateful for in my life:
- To be here, in California, to share love and light with others.
- To celebrate a second Thanksgiving - first one with my Canadian family, the second with my American friends and soul families.
- To feel the warmth of the sun, see the green of the trees, the colours of the rich flowers blossoming at this time of year.
- To my family and friends and community back home, in Canada....I miss them dearly and think of them often...wishing they were here with me!
- To be able to wear flipflops and tank tops at the end of November!
- To be of service and help to uplift others to their own beautiful light and love....to have an impact on the life's of others in such a positive, transformative way!
- To give back to those in need.
- For the beautiful people I have connected with here, in California...for an incredible place to stay...to my "Elevate" community for a sacred sanctuary to call home while here!
- For good food, decadent lattes and my most favourite food of all time...chocolate!
- For the incredible possibilities that are continuously flowing into my life and my ability to say yes, and take a step toward the creation and manifestation of them!!!
- For abundance!
- For the miraculous ability to be here, to be alive, to BE, to live life on the beautiful planet.....

There are soooo many things to be grateful for! At this time! Always! Life is so spectacular! A truly amazing gift!!!!

We are in a space of gratitude.....Reminding us of the power of gratitude....that what we call attention to, what we are grateful for, sends out an incredible energy that draws to us, like a magnet, more things to be grateful for! We are ever abundant, always supported, forever loved, creatively filled with our own unique expression of light, and surrounded with and nourished by infinite supply!!

On this American Thanksgiving day, take a moment and feel within your being all the things you are grateful for......
Sending to you much love and radiance!

Keepin it clean.....

2009-10-23T11:56:00.000-04:00

After many months of attempting to readjust my digestive system, I returned to a therapy that is working wonders!!! Not only for my digestive system but I have noticed an improvement in my skin, the whites of my eyes are whiter, I have more energy and I feel lighter - physically and emotionally!

What is this therapy you wonder....Colonics or Colon Hydrotherapy!

Now, I know what you're thinking, eeeww, I could never do that. Gross, Really?! What?!

First, we need to understand a little about our colon...we all hear about colon health these days and the importance of cleansing. The colon is often known as the sanitary system of the body. It is the organ that stores waste material that the body cannont use and needs to dispose of. Over time the colon becomes clogged, just like the drains in our sinks and bathtubs. The clogging ranges from mild to severe depending on many factors....like diet, especially depending on the amount of animal products we consume, the amount of sugar, refined and processed foods we eat, the various toxins and chemicals we are exposed to in our environments (pollution, pesticides, prescription drugs, household cleaners and chemicals, etc.) and the amount of stress we experience (mainly emotional and mental stress that gets "stuck" in our lower digestive track).

Just as we use cleansers to clear away the sink's drain, it is important to clean out our own personal drainage system! This can be down through herbal or juice cleansing systems and/or with the help of colonics!

Kevin Trudeau, author of "Natural Cures They Don't Want You to Know About" talk A LOT about the importance of colon health and the use of colonics...check out his website or book for more info:
http://www.naturalcures.com/

Colon Hydrotherapy gently removes excess waste from the large intestine by introducing purified, temperature and pressure regulated water into the colon. The waste then softens and loosens, allowing for the release through natural peristalsis, through a tube and out of the body. Toxins are diluted and released as well as parasites present in the colon.

During a treatment several fills and empty cycles occur within 45 minutes.

The benefits of cleansing the colon this way:
- reduces stagnation and congestion in the colon
- detoxifies, cleanses and tones the colon
- helps to maintain a harmonious balance of the intestinal flora
- rebalances bowel function, often relieving constipation and diarrhea

For more information I highly recommend the practitioner I've been seeing. Her name and contact information:

Monika Marcekova
Certified Colon Hydro Therapist
647. 201. 7434 or 647. 343. 0674
monika@colonhydro.ca
http://www.colonhydro.ca/
1560 Bloor St. West
Toronto ON M6P 1A4

While at her clinic I also had a detox foot bath just before my colonics! Check it out:

The ions move through the reflexes in the feet and connect to the meridians that run through the body. Through osmosis toxins are released from the cells of the body, circulate through the lymphatic system and are released through the sweat glands of the feet. When the toxins reach the water they react with the ionic charge in the water and present different colours to see what areas of the body are detoxifying the most.

In my case I was releasing cellular debris (brown), cleansing from my liver (brown and black) and gallbladder (green) and my joints (orange). So fun!!!

Here's to keepin' it clean!

tara

Surprising Ourselves

2009-10-09T14:48:00.001-04:00

A few weekends ago I ventured up north to rest and recharge on the Ottawa River….returning to a familiar spiritual place where a majestic waterfall meets the flowing river banks, surrounded by a multitude of trees with glowing ambers of fall. Tucked away in a cove with the houseboat, all was still but the rushing water nearby and the bustling of little animals gathering the last remaining nuts and seeds before the snow begins its descent.

At the beginning of this journey I had a friend with me…which is always so wonderful, to connect, to share and enjoy the stillness together, but she needed to return home on the second half of this trip. At first thought, I just flowed with whatever was happening…all was in divine order. I trusted that she needed to go and that I was meant to have this experience of complete solitude deep within the richness of the forest.

I was excited by the thought of this new adventure! Wow, to spend time here, in this sacred place all on my own, without the comforts of other people around, normally keeping me company. What was this going to be like, I wondered. My body and soul was craving some alone time….well….here we go….manifested it!

There I was, minus one person, gliding along in a tiny aluminum 14 foot fishing boat, feeling the fullness of gratitude in my heart. All was still on the river…not another soul in sight as the crimson sun set reflected off the glass water. As I returned to the houseboat, quietly tucked away in the tree-laced cove, the sun had set and darkness was approaching, I felt a strange wave of insecurity rush through me….what was I doing? A girl all alone in the wilderness, on a houseboat in the middle of nowhere. What if something happened? What if my sensitivities to spirit heightened like never before and here I was all alone? What was I thinking?

In that moment I breathed – a long……….deep inhale and exhale. I felt the calmness of my breath soothe my thoughts and move through my fears. Where was I? I am in a place that is so beautiful, surrounded by the magic of nature and the simplicity of creation. I was in a place where I had traveled to hundreds of times. I was in a place of comfort. A place I had retreated to for stillness and healing many times before. I was well taken care of. The energy and spirits around me, who walk with me and who surround me now in nature, are here with me, like every other time before….watching over me, showering me with light and protection of love. I began to feel the stillness and inner peace again.

As I reflected on this emotional experience I wondered, and laughed at my reaction. How fast we can shift our perceptions from simple thoughts that are often irrational. I was safe. I was in one of the most beautiful, quiet places on the planet. I was in a place that is so special to me….how fast my fear-based thoughts had shifted that, stirring every cell in my body.

I recalled how similar this feeling and reaction is to any other time of change or stepping into a place or action of unknown…something that throws us out of our comfort zone. The initial reaction most often is of fear, because by its very nature, it is unknown to us. We have no bearing or past-memory compass to navigate or know what this experience is going to be like. It is in this exact moment, if we are open to it, that the opportunity for growth and expansion can occur. It is then in our hands to draw up the courage from within, look into the face of this unknown or darkness and step into it anyways! Before we know it we are through the other side, looking back, thinking/saying, “Wow! That was a rush! That was amazing! I feel exhilarated!” It is in that moment that we have learned something new about ourselves, our surroundings, our reactions, our process and how we want to be in the world.

So the night came and went with relative ease….no real disturbances from unrested spirits or ghosts…only a tiny little mouse rummaging through the dishes in search of food. The night air was still. The darkness quite comforting. The gentle rocking of the boat lullabying me to sleep. I was so present to every little detail. I slept soundly, awaking at 5:45….a time that I used to naturally wake up at when my body was in natural alignment….hmmmmm….interesting I noticed. I decided to listen to the gentle rain as I drifted off to sleep for a few more hours.

Before departing this sacred land, I hiked up the falls to my resting meditation place…chanting, praying, breathing, taking in all that I could. Sending gratitude for the beauty all around me, for the elements and the healing properties of this place. I watched the dragonflies dance among the water air currents and listened to the rushing water over the ancient rocks. Everything was flowing in divine order, like it always had in this place. Nothing had changed but the colours of the leaves on the trees and the aroma of fall in the air. Everything was as it was intended to be. And so was I. I felt alive, rebalanced, recharged.

As I began my walk back down toward the boat I was aware and mindful of each step. Further integrating my being and existence with the undisturbed land around me….conscious of every step…feeling the softness of the ground below. Looking back at the falls, I said my farewell, until next year. I love this place sooo much! I was so grateful to be the only person there, with nature, one with all that was around me!

When I approached the boat, round two of stepping into a new place. I had docked, tied and untied this houseboat a hundred times….the difference today was that I was alone trying to do it. Recalling my reaction from last night and seeing myself more than alive and well today, I knew that I would be okay…I could do this! I called on my energetic guides, angels and supports, I aligned with the elements of nature and breathed through my being with all that I knew about water currents, ties, airflow and the dynamics of releasing the boat from the ropes that kept it steady within the cove. I remained calm, centered and grounded. Aware of every step along the rocks, in the water, in the smaller boat. Aware of every knot, coming undone. Aware of the elements holding and pushing and pulling on the boat. With the final two out of four ropes left, the motor going, the small boat tied to the side away from the larger motor of the houseboat, I stepped into the cool water one last time. I loosened the third rope, wrapped it around my body as if holding a barge with the strength of an Amazon warrior goddess, ever so gracefully untying the last rope, placed the boat in reverse and gently guided the 5-ton houseboat out of the cove and into the wide open river with ease and grace.

I shocked myself! I was SO surprised that I did this….all on my own! Oh my god! I was SO amazed at my own courage, strength and will. I was SO proud of myself for completely this seemingly insurmountable task that had to be done. I did it!

And as I sit here, smoothly coasting along the water, with the same stillness of nature drifting by, sipping on a hot tea and preparing to eat homemade blueberry pancakes, writing this article….I think and feel within myself….”Wow, life is good! Life is really good!” And it was through the daunting and somewhat scary challenges that were placed before me, that I stepped with courage and am able to sit here and take it all in and appreciate the fullness of life! All of it! Reflecting on the amazement of our own beings and the life experiences that we move through!

I encourage you to step into the unknown, step into experiences that you’ve never had, go to places that you’ve always wanted to but let fear stop you. It is in these times that we grow and live life more fully. We expand ourselves in ways we will never know unless we try, unless we step into it! Through courage we feel more freedom!

Start with the simple things in your life. Think about some of the things you’ve always wanted to do but stopped yourself for some reason or another. And then look at why you didn’t move forward. Choose to step through these self-imposed barriers and set yourself free to more and more and more……

Be courageous, be adventurous, be an explorer to your own life. Be limitless. Live a “full” – filling life!!!!!!

I think you’ll surprise yourself….

Effecting the world around us....

2009-09-29T23:33:00.002-04:00

I finally completed, edited and sent out my newsletter for September and October! It's always such a wonderful feeling to complete these tasks! I sometimes procrastinate and get swept up in other day-to-day activities that I put aside some of the things that I REALLY enjoy doing! Like writing and creating my newsletters. (www.tarahealingsanctuary.com/newsletter)I've actually been thinking about recreating them as well...turning them into a e-magazine...something to ponder....

I had such a beautiful day with my mom again...have been spending more time up north this year and getting to know her on a very different level...with open eyes and a fresh perspective! She is such an incredible woman! Our journey today consisted of shopping and getting our hair done! Such a wonderful girl's day!

Reflecting on the day the theme that stands out most to me is that we can assist, uplift, inspire and shine light on anyone, anywhere, anytime! It really is incredible when we are in the flow of who we are, doing our thing and then next you know, we've just helped someone or made a difference in their day!

I had this happen a few times today...starting at the hairdresser's (Salon Karma, North Bay 705-498-6315)....I was there receiving a beautiful service, engaged in deep conversation (as always!) and the next thing you know I'm doing what flows so naturally for me, counseling and advising my hair dresser...she was so grateful, open and loving! So happy to have this time to chat with me! And I felt wonderful for being able to give back to her in that moment! Then at the mall, several times, engaged in conversation with the store's staff...next thing you know I'm chatting with them about following their passions, living a life that is full and beautiful and allowing their dreams to unfold, bringing more happiness and joy into their lives! (above pic: me and Heather, my fab hair dresser)

My mom, watching in amazement, asks, "how do you do that?"
My only response was, "It just happens. I love it!"
(beside pic: my mom and I after our hair cuts)

And so, I extend to all of you....as you are out in the world, exploring, shopping, enjoying...be aware and mindful of how you are and what you can contribute to another's day by sharing your beautiful and unique gifts!!!

In love and light!
tara

Adjusting to Life in the Jungle - Jan 20

2009-01-20T14:27:00.002-05:00

Well I've been here in Costa Rica now for a few days. The first morning in this new terrain, in San Jose, was beautiful! Lush morning air, choirs of birds, the warm summer air and the sweet aromas dancing in the gentle breeze! I connected with others from the retreat...a beautiful interaction before arriving in Nosara.

Arriving at the Hacienda Del Sol was exciting as everyone settled into their cabins and started the process of interaction. I realized that we are in a very remote part of the country, which today, I am understanding the reasons as to why.

To be honest yesterday was rather challenging for me...I was really feeling the reality of being here, in rustic nature....sort of reminds me of being in Deux Rivieres (where I grew up in Northern Ontario)...the closest town being a 40 minute dirt road ride away. We are located in the mountains of the jungle, but the dryer part of the country so it's not too humid.

Yesterday I was really missing my family and friends and the daily interaction with my beloved clients. Some come on retreats like this to escape their life or world, running to something better. But for me, life is really great at home. I really missed not being able to reach out and talk to my girlfriends! I really sank into gratitude and appreciate for them and how much they mean to my world.

Today has been much easier. Adjusting to living in the secluded jungle with the echos of monkeys in the near-by trees! People have been really generous with lending me their computers to stay connected to the outside world!

I spent the afternoon yesterday by the ocean...which is always so healing for me. Gave the sadness, grief, fear and tears to the ocean. The freedom of floating in loving support of the water was so healing for me....completely rinsed me clean!

We are engaging in yoga practice 2 -3 times per day! I feel my body transforming already! the food is AMAZING!! All raw....we had the most incredible raw carrot cake last night for someone's birthday!! And the others students here are wonderful....I can really feel a connection to each and the whole and as to why we have all chosen to be here at this moment in time, with one another!

In yoga philosophy this morning we learned about the principles of yoga...one of them being about letting go of the familiar, of security, of friends and family and material possessions..."aparigraha"....and this is what we are doing by retreating into nature...letting go of the familiar and placing ourselves in a slightly uncomfortable situation...stretching our limits!

We have time off every afternoon for lounging at the beach, sleeping or doing homework....today I really wanted to connect with all of you!

sending each of you sooo much love from the jungle!!!
Tara

Beautiful Connections

2009-01-20T14:18:00.001-05:00

I arrived safe in Costa Rica. Getting here was a beautiful adventure! Everything flowed so effortlessly - this is what occurs when we surrender to the natural flow of life and the universe. When we are present and grounded to each moment the most amazing things can occur!!

I met 4 incredible individuals along the first part of my journey - each radianting love and compassion in their individual, unique way. They are on a journey of flow - surrendering to divine guidance - here in Costa Rica to help rebuild communities that were affected by the latest earth quake. Four people from different walks of life - strangers coming together uniting for one common purpose. To unconditionally and compassionately give without expectation. Truly divine beings!! It was such an honour and pleasure to cross paths with these earth angels!

(My last Starbucks for a while....)