Experience a Shamanic Journey with Hypnosis

Walking into our local health food store, I am slightly dismayed to see the display of chocolate with the label of “shaman" with a claim that it benefits some indigenous people somewhere. Cultural appropriation aside, in a time where the earth is experiencing a healing crisis, where more people are learning Reiki in thirty hours instead of thirty years, I ponder what it is to walk the path of a modern day shaman.

   "The principle function of the shaman in Central and North Asia is magical healing. Several conceptions of the cause of illness are found in the area, but that of 'rape of the soul' is by far the most widespread. Disease is attributable to the soul's having strayed away or been stolen, and treatment is in principle reduced to finding it, capturing it, and obliging it to resume its’ place in the patient's body. Only the Shaman... sees the spirits and knows how to exorcise them; only he recognizes that the soul has fled, and is able to overtake it in ecstasy and return it to the body." (1)

   I find this an interesting contrast to modern day healing as one of the techniques I employ as a certified hypnotherapist is the "shamanic journey". After inducing trance, my role is to facilitate the clients’ journey, where they meet a spirit plant, spirit animal and spirit guide with messages and assistance for their current situation. The main difference here is that rather than me doing the journeying for the client, the client is doing the work themselves, in particular in contacting their own inner resources. "Shamanism offers a means of support and comfort for these dark emotions through contact with our spirit guides and power animals... Supportive, wise and loving energy around us... Our guides and animals actually become bored when we do not call upon them and drift away looking for something to do... Our guides can provide a sense of comfort and remind us that we are connected to energies much larger than we are." (2)

   I decided to do a shamanic journey specific to this time in my life in becoming a holistic healer. I am entering a different phase of life, now in my late forties, noticing the ways in which my energy longs for simplicity. I have been reconnecting with my spirituality in particular, creating time and sacred space for myself. As my daughter grows to womanhood and is looking at colleges, I find myself looking at this time of moving from being the mother to being the crone, the wise one, the elder. Astrologically speaking, I am entering my Chiron return - Chiron, the wounded healer, who changed his wounds into his greatest gift. As Sandra Ingerman writes in Soul Retrieval: Mending the Fragmented Self, "In the shamanic tradition of the 'wounded healer,' I began not by learning theory or observing others, but by coming to terms with my personal distress." (3)

   I had recently done a past life regression where I experienced being a midwife in China a few thousand years ago. Then, in looking through my journals, I discovered a dream I had in my twenties that included meeting a warrior and carving the words, "I Am Initiate" into my arm. Almost a decade later, once I was in a trance state and I remember I looked down at my body which half was skeleton, half flesh, and I hearing Ani diFranco sing, “You have your whole life to do something, and that’s not very long.” Similar to the what Kenneth Johnson describes as a distinct pattern of shamanic initiation, where the “shaman undergoes a visionary experience, sometimes brought on by illness in which he or she suffers death and dismemberment, only to be resurrected and reborn” (4) . I found these potent and significant passages in my spiritual growth, and was now ready to explore more.

   The hypnotherapist had me get comfortable on the couch, close my eyes and do a basic relaxation to induce trance. I found myself in the backyard with the cats, sitting at a table made from the stump of the old plum tree. A part of me - the part that felt tired, needed rest and repair, curled up on my mom's old blue jean quilt and went to sleep. The cats went over to stand guard of my physical body while another part, my dream body, journeyed.

   I began to walk on a path, leaving the garden, first going upstairs to my altar area filled with the smell of colored pencils, down the stairs again, out the front door, up to Henry Cowell woods, down to backyard again, walking around the house to the front yard, where I met my spirit plant.

   A tall, slender birch tree greeted me. I ran my hands on the trunk, seeing and feeling how the bark was shed as the tree grew bigger and stronger. The shedding bark so clearly told of the need to let go of the past in a natural and organic way, whether donating clothes and unused possessions to goodwill to releasing old outgrown friendships. The roots reminded me it was okay to be anchored here, in my home in Santa Cruz, there is no need to move, I can stay rooted, grounded. I perceived that the roots were as large as the branches, so important to draw up nourishment from the core of the earth, creating stability through the winds of change. The trunk was tall, supple, slender and flexible, again shedding what it had outgrown, but this time growing up towards the light rather than down into the earth. I traveled into the green leaves, which sparkled and shimmered in the light. Here I felt reminded to stay light and sparkly, a contrast to the Chinese Elm in my yard, which had cracked in the winter after being too top heavy. Metaphorically this resonated in my being as a message to stay light in my head as well as my heart, not to be too heavy in my thinking.

   More insights poured into me: Always look for the three layers in healing: root, trunk and leaves, each has a medicine of its’ own. I had a memory from first grade come up, my first crush, a seven year old boy named Birch who had blonde hair, blue eyes ,a freckled nose, and always wore tennis bands. Two baskets made by my Swedish grandmother, both woven out of birch bark, now holding beads and crystals on my altar. A vision, first of my back bone, then my whole nervous system, my spinal cord being like the trunk of the tree, noticing all my nerves branching outwards, from the tips of my fingers to the tips of my toes. Birch whispered that it is good right now that I am doing chiropractic and cranialsacral therapy as they will help to reset my nervous system. I had been thinking about quitting coffee completely lately, having reduced my consumption considerably, and this seemed like a way to shed this habit easily and effortlessly, simply by calling upon Birch.

   After thanking Birch for its gifts, I continued on my path. I meandered past the bottle brush tree, taking a moment to sit on the bench on the porch. Instantly there was a hummingbird in my face, darting around, twittering furiously, finally landing on my outstretched hand and gently resting. I could feel its’ hearts warmth on my finger as I observed its’ iridescent green feathers, so sparkly, bright, shiny, and playful. I wanted to stroke the ruby red throat, and in its’ beady black eyes glowed the message: trust your voice, keep speaking your truth. Better yet, sing your truth. Hummingbird showed me that it is territorial, and interesting message to fight for what is mine, to fight for my current relationship, to know it is worth the effort and what it is to to feel fierce and proud, not in an ego way but as an assertion of life force and my right to be. I saw Hummingbird visiting flowers, in particular hibiscus blooms, a gentle reminder to try new things, to sip the nectar of life and enjoy the sweetness, to really savor each moment rather than busily humming along to the next, allowing me to stay in the moment, be present with myself. Hummingbird also has a reputation for nervous energy, and I can use my own nervous energy to propel myself forward, backward even sideways at times, and how to balance that with periods of rest. Here I saw my heart's nest, in my own heart beat the fluttering of wings.

    I thanked Hummingbird for his presence today and continued on my path. From the front porch I walked down and around the house, returning to the back yard. I observed my sleeping body still being guarded by the cats, and continued to the garden table in the corner. Here I met my spirit guide who was wearing a long white  dress painted with pink flowers, quite sparkly, her long hair down to to her waist, very feminine, with a filmy veil that revealed a crescent moon tattooed between her eyebrows. She kept vibrating between being in her mid twenties to mid sixties. She said she was my True Self come to guide me.

   True Self showed me the sacred tools of the four elements sitting on the garden table: an athame, a wand, a crystal ball, and a conch shell with a hole in the top. She reminded me to sing songs, say prayers, remember chants, pay attention to dreams, notice all that is spilling out of me. I was filled with a feeling of reconnection, much like my recent visit to sacred grounds in Hawaii, feeling back in touch with the earth and the ancestors. The messages seemed to tumble as a litany, touchstones to return to after having wandered: breathe, drink water, accept the current form, nothing to do differently except to do it with intention, keep simplifying, rather than getting caught up in the next step, focus on your current step.

   Suddenly the "real world" crashed in: there were loud ambulance and fire truck noises outside the office. I asked my True Self: Is there a fire in my soul? Am I responding out of habit? Addiction? I check in with physical body, the crisis has passed, there is no trauma. As it is noisy outside I am quiet inside, at peace. I started to send energy to the situation but my True Self said no, it is being taken cared of, stay here, be present with your process. More messages tumbled forth: take more cat naps, enjoy the garden rather than work in it, twenty minutes of hypnosis is the same as two hours sleep. More cat cues - stretch when waking up, rest when tired. True Self kissed my forehead, put a jeweled bindi on my third eye. True Self reached into her robes and gave me a pouch filled with extra sands of time, whispering the simple blessing: You have all the time you need.

   I felt deeply peaceful, full of gratitude and appreciation, showered with blessings, on my path, clear, calm, compassionate and curious. After coming out of trance, I left the office to go write down my experience at my favorite local cafe. I then discovered that the sirens I heard earlier were emergency vehicles were responding to Shannon Collins, a local business owner, who was stabbed repeatedly and killed just a few feet from my first house in Santa Cruz. I have thought about this repeatedly, that a death was occurring during my journey, and I comfort myself in the belief that so were many births happening too.

   In both ancient shamanic practices and modern, “the shamanic ‘miracles’... stimulate and feed the imagination, demolish barriers between dream and present reality, open windows upon worlds inhabited by gods, the dead, and the spirits”(5). Rather than taking on the role of the magician, priest or heirophant, my role as a modern shaman is to empower my clients “for if that which you seek you find not within, you will never find it without. For behold, I have been with you from the beginning, and I am all that is attained at the end of desire.”(6)

End Notes

1. Mircea Eliade, Shamanism: Archaic Techniques of Ecstasy, (Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1972), p.5

2. Ann M. Drake, Psy. D, Healing of the Soul: Shamanism and Psyche, (Ithaca, NY: Busca, 2003) p. 169.

3. Sandra Ingerman, Soul Retrieval: Mending the Fragmented Self, (New York, NY: HarperCollins, 1991) p.15

4. Kenneth Johnson, Witchcraft and the Shamanic Journey, (St. Paul, MN: Llewellyn, 1996) p.36

5. Eliade, p. 505

6. Starhawk, The Spiral Dance: Rebirth of the Ancient Religion of the Great Goddess (New York, NY: Harper & Row, 1979) p. 76

Mixing Business with Pleasure

Please join me and the Santa Cruz Women's Chapter of Leads Club for an informal mixer at MJA Vineyards Ladies Night on the second Tuesday of the month.

The next one is Tuesday, July 8 from 3:30pm-8:00pm 

Cost is $10 for wine tasting with food pairings.

MJA Vineyards is near Kelly's Bakery on the Westside at 328 Ingalls St.

Feel free to bring friends!

“Leads Club: Providing an Effective Means to Increase Business. Build your public speaking and presentation skills. Get business referrals and marketing tips from other women business owners. We support each other!”

Leads Club is dedicated to maximizing the use of your time and resources to get good business referrals. Leads Club is a networking club designed to expand a member’s client base. We are a leads and referral networking group dedicated to increasing Members’ business success.

​The Holistic Tarot: Fours represent Stability

Four equidistant points in space create a square, symbol of solidification, foundation, stability, hard angles, tension, security, maturity, the four directions, the four elements, resolving conflicts by integrating needs, and organization. In the Osho Zen Tarot we discover the image of “The Miser” in the Four of Pentacles, a theme repeated in the Rider-Waite deck where we see a king holding tight onto his coins. IV-The Emperor in the Rider-Waite is the archetype of the male principle, shown in full armor while sitting rather stiffly on a throne which has bulls, sign of Taurus, carved on the arms and back, full of power and full of responsibilities, stable yet rigid at times. 

In The Tarot for Transformation we find the archetype of The Green Man, “the living intelligence of nature, shape-shifting into various forms” (Arlenea and Cori 25). Recommendations when pulling a Four is to create a positive discipline for one's self, with realistic expectations and support.

Chakra Balancing Meditation

Chakra balancing meditation video with Dr. Kayla Garnet Rose, Reiki Master. Experience feeling balanced at each energetic level of your being.

Edgar Cayce and Healing with Crystals

Healing with Crystals and Gemstones

Edgar Cayce believed that every living body emanates both physical and spiritual vibrations which produces different tones, much like the vibration that is created when the string of a musical instrument is played. He recommended gemstones, metals and minerals in his life readings as they can give off particular vibrations, such as color, and can raise the tone of the body to a higher vibration with healing results.

Energy medicine works by raising the vibrations in the body and by releasing blockages caused by emotional traumas or health issues. In Eastern thought there are seven primary energy centers, known as chakras, that relate to certain organs and human needs, each with an associated color. These energy vortexes can be activated for healing using vibrational medicine. We also have several subtle energy fields around our bodies, including the astral, mental and causal layers, which energy medicine can help to tune, open up, release, transform and heal these layers by enlivening and energizing them.

Some well known people with nervous system disorders include Dudley Moore who died from Super-Nuclear Palsy, Roger Ebert who had Bell's Palsy, and Michael J. Fox who has Parkinson's disease. These may have been prevented by helping their bodies adapt to rapidly changing environmental vibrational frequency shifts and supporting them emotionally during life changes. Rhodonite is recommended as a healer of the emotional heart, to mend the past and to feel peace about future changes while raising one's overall vibration, and as an assistant during times of transitions.

Cayce warned us against using the crystal as a good luck charm because he perceived it not as an omen but as a helpful influence. Cayce believed that the crystal acts to raise the energy naturally of the wearer rather than attributing it's influence to some supernatural phenomenon. The clear, colorless nature can increase the frequency of any of the chakras and thus can be used to amplify any vibration. Cayce encouraged keeping crystal close to the body in order to tune into the vibrations that were needed for the entity.

Coral was so important to the life readings as Cayce perceived that it would tune people in to the healing forces of water, help in creativity, protect highly intuitive/sensitive people from harmful vibrations and bring quiet and rest to the body. Coral is used to enhance spiritual aspects and spiritual imports, to calm disturbing influences, and to tap into the Creative Forces. He recommend that the coral touch the body, for example a necklace, bracelet, or mounting that allowed the coral to make direct contact with the flesh of the wearer.

Cayce especially recommended the use of Lapis. Three kinds of Lapis are 1) Lapis Lazuli, well known in Egypt for decorating the coffins of the Pharaohs and used for psychic development, general health and protection 2) Lapis Ligurius, found on the northwest coast of Italy and could be an old wold word for zircon, a green stone used for protection rite, chrysocolla, or turquoise. Possibly larimar as well.

I enjoy incorporating gemstones into my treatments as well as in my aromatherapy sprays in order to raise my client's vibrations, much like tuning a fine violin. Call or email for more information or to schedule an appointment for a crystal healing today.

World's Happiest Cat

The hardest part about vacation is missing my cats. I made this little video and watched in every day. This is June, the world's happiest cat. Rather than purring, she makes tiny little wuffing noises. Her pure joy is simply contagious! 

Mixing Business with Pleasure

Please join me and the Santa Cruz Women's Chapter of Leads Club for an informal mixer at MJA Vineyards Ladies Night on the second Tuesday of the month.

The next one is this Tuesday, June 10 from 3:30pm-6:30pm

Cost is $10 for wine tasting with food pairings.

MJA Vineyards is near Kelly's Bakery on the Westside at 328 Ingalls St.

Feel free to bring friends!

​The Holistic Tarot: Threes for Energy and Creativity

Threes in the Tarot represent the offshoot, creativity, expression, the trinity, focus, support, growth, and joy. One of the most iconic cards, the Three of Swords in the Rider-Waite shows a red heart pierced by three swords, rainy storm clouds in the background. This is the card of heartache caused by mental anguish, the story of every three way relationship. In The Housewives Tarot we see a frosted cake sliced by three serving knifes with the message of “any relationship that causes chronic heartburn should be sliced out of your life” (Kepple and Buffum 71).

 On a more positive note, the archetype of Threes is found in the Major Arcana cards: III-The Empress shows a woman in a floral gown lounging on a throne, a crown of stars in her hair, a large symbol of Venus planet of love and attraction. In the Daughters of the Moon we see a woman giving birth on top of an elephant, a snake winding about a branch above her. This is the card of potential, pregnancy and possibilities, the female archetype of the Great Mother and a time for rebirth. Holistic recommendations when pulling card with the number three is to find creative outlets, including play, sports, artistic, and musical pursuits.

Healing Benefits of Salt

The healing benefits of salts include:

•  using table salt as a powerful protector of the energy field around the home
•  taking a pinch of table salt on the tongue 3x a week just before bed to strengthen the salivary glands and condition the stomach
•  to massage out sore muscles by combining table salt with apple cider vinegar
•  to create a nasal wash by combining table salt, baking soda and cream of soda - this keeps mucous from going into the system and helps neck, throat and shoulder problems
•  using sea salt in hot packs to relieve menstrual cramps
•  to relieve hip and shoulder pain by sponging a solution of bicarbonate of soda in warm water with heated sea salt
•  using Epsom salts to reduce swelling and inflammation, either by adding to a bath or creating a hot pack
•  to help a pet adjust to change by adding a little bit of table salt to their food or have them lick it off your hand.

The three main kinds are table salt (sodium chloride, often has iodine in it) sea salt (which contains nearly every common element and has positive vibrations from sea creatures) and Epsom salts, which has magnesium in it. In my opinion the best is Epsom salts, which I use:

•  in a nasal wash for allergy relief
•  in a hot sauna as an overall skin rub and wonderful exfoliant
•  in the bathtub for sore muscles and for soothing heartache. 

I have found it beneficial when experiencing troubles with my partner for both of us to soak in an Epsom salt bath together to recalibrate our vibrations and find harmony again.

“The cure for anything is salt water - tears, sweat, or the sea.” - Isak Dineson

Pre-Surgery Hypnosis

I worked with a client who had lost one of his eyes to cancer. He was going to have an intensive surgery procedure to seal the empty socket shut so that he could go back to surfing. He was going to be sedated for ten days and in the hospital for thirty days.

We did eight sessions of "acu-hyp" - hypnosis during an acupuncture session. He focused on letting go of his anger at the failure of his five past surgeries and the stress of his divorce, as well as affirming that he had always been a fast healer and that his body would respond to the new grafts.

Well, he was only sedated for one day and out of the hospital in ten days! You can imagine the enormous savings on the hospital bill. It is amazing to me that insurance will not pay for hypnosis when it is so effective in accelerating the healing process.

If you or someone you know is going into surgery, consider the benefits of hypnosis as a part of your process. Feel free to call or email with any questions!

Warmly,

Kayla

Dr. Kayla Garnet Rose, PhD, CHT

www.KaylaGarnetRose.com
(831) 435-5182

​The Holistic Power of Tarot: Twos for Balance

The Twos in the tarot represent balance, assimilation, togetherness, lines of communication, analysis, bonding, opposition, the shadow, reflection, duality, polarity, and friendliness. The Two of Wands in the Rider-Waite deck shows a man gazing off into the distance, one wand firmly planted, the other in hand. He also carries a globe, thus traditionally the card of travel. In the Osho Zen Tarot we see an eagle flying above a canyon in a dusky sky. The card is titled "Possibilities" and there is the sense of gaining new perspective.

The archetype for Twos is II-The High Priestess in the Rider-Waite deck, a robed figure who sits between two pillars, one black, one white with the letters J and B carved on them. Digging into the esoteric, these are Joab and Boaz, pillars of wisdom at Solomon’s Temple. The High Priestess, a female archetype, moves from the male archetype of The Magician creating for himself to the duality of creating for others through ritual. Ritual is conscious transformation of energy, and in holistic terms this is the card indicating a need for ceremony, whether that be a rite of passage, wedding or a wake. The High Priestess is portrayed in the Osho Zen Tarot as “Inner Voice”, who “speaks not in words but in wordless language of the heart... (and) represents the clarity that comes from transcending all dualities” (Osho 6) . In holistic terms. Twos indicate a time to look at balance on all parts of life: diet, checkbook, work and play, left and right brain.

A Simple Self-Hypnosis Technique

In this short tutorial, Dr. Kayla Garnet Rose, Certified Hypnotherapist, teaches a simple technique for self-hypnosis that anyone can use to feel relaxed and refreshed in minutes.

Adventures in Detoxing, Part 2

As I wrote in my last post, I decided to go on an eight week detoxing program, based on The Detox Book by Bruce Fife. Here are my notes from each week:

The first week I lost five pounds, which I attributed mostly to water loss as both the practitioners said I could be experiencing bloating from the antibiotics and from being on my period. I felt lazy and lethargic, wanting to sleep a lot, experiencing a lot of asthma. I realized that I never want to eat when menstruating, a natural time for me to fast, so for a few days only drank juices and ate fruits.

The second week I lost one pound, added the thymus supplement, and found a general return of energy. We went biking twice and hiking. I added daily meditation/visualization that I can do while driving. Both allergies and asthma are better. I also went for a chiropractic adjustment.

The third week I gained two pounds. It rained all week,so though I continued to eat clean, my daily walking routine was interrupted. We decided to take ballroom dancing classes on Monday nights for winter activity. Started oxygen therapy using hydrogen peroxide on my underarm rash and toe fungus. I also began weekly reflexology sessions.

The fourth week I switched from dandelion tea to a detox tea specific for kidney and liver health,starting with one cup a day and gradually increasing it to three. Got my period. Started doing more heliotherapy, deliberately sitting out with my arms exposed. Lost two pounds.

The fifth week I experimented with ear candles and continued reflexology. Stopped dairy completely, including milk in my coffee. Lost another two pounds.

The sixth week I got the flu and had emotional crises. I used aromatherapy, especially eucalyptus, and as the mucus drained affirmed clearing my brain of congested thoughts. Here the neti pot was my friend as well, helping to ease the strain on my sinuses. I took homeopathic oscillium and wellness formula from Source Naturals, as wells Boirons Chestal, a homeopathic cough syrup. I drank a lot of gypsy cold care tea and green tea, eating mostly soup. Lost 4 pounds.

The seventh week I had another emotional crisis, did my first 24 hour fast, took bath with Epsom salts, lavender. Did acupuncture. This time I added a media fast, as tv is junk food for the mind. Lost 3 pounds.

The eighth week got my period, I tried herbal laxative, hated it! The rash where tick bite was flared up considerably. Looking forward to getting a massage. Lost 1 pound.

My overall perspective of the detoxification process is extremely positive. This was one of my best courses from AIHT and one I plan on using in my life as well as guiding my clients. Physically I notice my smooth skin, more energy, felt back in my body, fungus gone, less mucus, less plaque on teeth, and I had lost over 15 pounds. Emotionally I feel like I survived the winter and actually had less symptoms of SAD than previous winters. Mentally I enjoyed the visualizations and meditations, and look forward to more mind fasts by continuing to go on silent retreats. Most importantly, the detox had a profound spiritual effect, allowing me to clear some clutter from my soul, transmute the poisons of the past and change some of my wounds into gifts that will help others.

References
The Detox Book. Fife, Bruce. Colorado Springs: Piccadilly Books, Ltd.
The Tao of Detox by Daniel Reid
The Miracle of Fasting by Patricia Bragg

Adventures in Detoxing Part 1

After reading The Detox Book by Bruce Fife, I decided on trying herbal detoxification because "(n)ext to fasting, herbs are the oldest method used for detoxification... In our modern society we have the advantage of using herbs from all over the world, not just the ones growing near us. This way, we have access to the strongest, most effective herbal detoxifiers the earth has to offer" (p. 173). I spent the next eight weeks trying different combination of herbs, mostly in the form of teas, as well as incorporating other detox methods such as regular fasting, oxygen therapy and eating the natural foods diet.

The physical, mental and emotional steps I took in preparation were way more than I had anticipated. Last June I was delighted to come home to my next set of course books from AIHT. I picked up the books on detoxification and thought,"This is what I'll do first!" as the saying goes, we make plans, God laughs. I certainly thought about it for six months, reviewing my life style habits, thinking about menu plans and exercise, my general health and well being, and creating better habits.

In December I was diagnosed with Lyme disease from a tick bite last October. Three weeks of antibiotics helped with the symptoms but had severe side effects, including daily nausea and headaches as well as a hyper sensitivity to the sun, and of coincidentally I was going for my first time to Hawaii. My hands broke out in a heat rash and three patches of ringworm appeared in my arm pits.

In January I started reading The Detox Book and went on the Natural Foods Diet. I bought a scale for the first time in my adult life, and was dismayed to see had gained five pounds while on vacation. I put a calendar in my walk in closet and each day weighed myself and charted what I had eaten, number if alcoholic drinks, any exercise, and any supplements.

Each day I added one thing to my regime to create my own 7 daily habits. For example, the first day I ate a piece of fruit in the morning, the next day I added a glass of cranberry juice in the afternoon, the third day a cup of herbal tea midday, etc. The first month I added one weekly habit, such as a 24 hour fast, dry skin brushing, a longer physical activity such as hiking or biking, and a regular appointment with a health care provider. The second month I added monthly routines, such as a 3 day fast, hot bath with Epsom salts.

It was easy to eliminate red meat from my diet, eating salmon, lentils, tofu and eggs, mostly not worrying about protein. I eat vegetables but not a lot of fruit, so I started adding fruits to my salads, such as apples, raisins, and grapes. Later I read more about proper food combining in The Miracle of Fasting and started eating fruits completely separately from other foods. My only dairy is usually milk in my coffee and occasionally yogurt, although the couple of times I broke down and did eat pizza, which I really felt it the next day, especially in mucus production.

It was easy to limit alcohol to the times we went out to dinner, and then only drinking two glasses of wine, eliminating beer and hard alcohol completely. I slowly added supplements, starting with magnesium/ calcium to help the nerve damage in my hands from the Lyme disease and probiotics for intestinal and colon health. I added a thymactive supplement on the advice of both reflexologist and acupuncturist, both of whom I am seeing on a regular basis.

I thought I was prepared to go through a healing crisis, which did occur, both physically and emotionally. Probably the hardest part of the whole process was my emotional sensitivity and difficult communication with my partner. I really wanted my choices to not feel like a judgement, and to honor and respect his own decisions. I certainly learned the rule of "On fast, don't tell" and received criticism from other friends as well.

The detox experience itself was great, in some ways easier than I expected, mostly because I had thought about it so much and continued to think about it throughout. I felt like I was kind and gentle to myself, going slow, and choosing to create life time habits more than just trying a fad.

References
The Detox Book. Fife, Bruce. Colorado Springs: Piccadilly Books, Ltd.
The Tao of Detox by Daniel Reid
The Miracle of Fasting by Patricia Bragg

Pets and Reiki

Rei-Kitty

Pets and Reiki

Animals love Reiki, and respond with health, energy and enthusiasm. My cat loves to have Reiki run up and down her spine while lying upside in my lap. I have never seen a pet look so ridiculously relaxed.

I found it very helpful when she had an abscess at the base of her tail. At first I thought she had been hit by a car and had a broken hip. The poor dear, she was so miserable. The vet had recommended hot compresses and antibiotics. The Reiki seemed to sooth her as the wound drained, and certainly helped me channel my worry energy into more positive and beneficial energy.

Click here for more information on Reiki in Santa Cruz. Please use the contact page to schedule your Reiki appointment.

The Holistic Tarot: Aces, the Power of One

In the Tarot, Ones are a symbol of wholeness, integration, beginnings, the self, creation, source, wholeness, unit, point, one in the midst of all. Indeed the word "aloneness" can be changed to "all-one-ness". In the traditional Rider-Waite deck in the Minor Arcana we see a hand emerging from a cloud holding one of the symbols of the four elements, with a backdrop that has mountains in the distance, and Yods (tears of God) surrounding the symbol. In other decks we see more interpretations, such as in The Housewives Tarot where the Ace of Pentacles “reminds us that, before we can begin any endeavor, we need a sensible plan, fierce determination, and a heavy duty pair f latex gloves” (Kepple and Buffum 83).

Another archetype of Ones is I-The Magician, and in the Rider-Waite deck is seen with the symbols of each of the four elements in front of him, an infinity sign above his head. This is the card of discovering wholeness, integration, and combining all of parts of the psyche to co-create ones universe. In the Daughters of the Moon we see The Witch, holding her magic wand while stirring a cauldron. An owl, symbol of Athena, Goddess of Wisdom is perched in a tree, a reminder to check one's blind spots. Ivy, a tenacious plant associated with wisdom, curls around a solid oak, showing both solidness and flexibility. A cat sits close by, indicating a familiarity with the animal kingdom. Holistically, pulling an Ace indicates a time of starting something new or a time of integration.

Discover Hypnosis

Dr. Kayla Garnet Rose provides a short introduction to therapeutic hypnosis. 

Hypnosis for Trichotillomania

Have you heard of trichotillomania? It is the compulsion to pull out your eyelashes, eyebrows or hair. I had a 14 year old client come in, who had been engaging in this habit for about a year. Her smart parents decided to try hypnosis instead of putting her on medication. She stopped completely after just five sessions!

Hypnotherapy helped give her the insight that she was dealing with the stress of her parent's divorce (one year ago, hmmm) and she felt she was being "picked on". We discussed nervous energy being just that, energy, and she decided she'd rather pick on a guitar than pick on herself. She discovered she could take the turmoil in her heart and put it into words and music, allowing her an amazing way to share and express her feelings.

This is why I love what I do - guiding folks to discover their own solutions, for truly all healing is self healing, and all hypnosis is self hypnosis. If you have a nervous habit - such as biting your nails, chewing your lips or cheeks, picking at zits, or pulling/chewing hair - that you are ready to transform, give me call and discover your own personal, long-term, successful solution. I believe in you!

Warmly,

Kayla

Dr. Kayla Garnet Rose, PhD, CHT

www.KaylaGarnetRose.com
(831) 435-5182

Thoughts on Change

I ran into an old friend I hadn't seen in 10 years in a coffee shop. "Wow!" she said, "You look so different!" I thought to myself, "Thank goodness" since ten years ago I was incredibly unhappy, dissatisfied and depressed.

I realize that change scares some people, especially if it challenges their notions of what should be constant. Even in Santa Cruz, where many perceive both sexuality and gender as being fluid, any transitions are met with suspicion and the attitude that somehow you have betrayed the community.

I still get asked the question, "But Kayla, how do you identify?" Truthfully, I identify as a Libra and a healer rather than trying to define my self by the person I am sleeping with or the length of my hair. And guess what, I am happy, satisfied and enjoying my life now more than ever. Label spices, not people.

If you are struggling with change or the acceptance for your changes, give me a call for some hypnotherapy to set up internal resources, release fears, and invite your glorious being to continue to unfold and evolve!

Warmly,

Kayla

Dr. Kayla Garnet Rose, PhD, CHT

www.KaylaGarnetRose.com
(831) 435-5182

12 Tips for Seasonal Affective Disorder

According to the Wikipedia,  Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects up to 9.7% of Americans. Also known as the Winter Blues, I have managed this personally for the last 33 years by a combination of the following:

1. St. John's Wort - While does not make me euphoric by any means, gives me an even keel. I find it most effective taking it at least one month before my regular symptoms appear in February.

2. Sleep - Hibernation is my friend. I sleep anywhere from 9 to 12 hours plus take naps during the winter time. Way better than checking out on drugs, alcohol or any other escape mechanism. Plus, I look so young with all that beauty rest!

3. Sunshine - There is a reason why I live in California. However, I remember when I was a kid living rainy, cold Luxembourg my parents buying a tanning lamp to give all of us a seasonal boost.

4. Vitamin D - Of course is naturally produced by being in the sun, but what with global warming and polar vortex conditions, consider supplementing your regime. Vitamin C is also our friend, boosting immunity.

5. Aromatherapy - Orange, bergamot, and lemon all uplift the spirits. Combine with a carrier oil and use as either a room spray or body spray. Check for allergies first!

6. Stop drinking alcohol - Quite simply it is a depressant. Again, like taking herbs, I find it most effective if I stop drinking one month before I usually experience my winter blues.

7. Wear bright colors - I find myself reaching into the closet for the grey and black clothing, reflecting my inner landscape. Deliberately choosing to wear purples, reds, yellows, and other bright colors helps me "fake it until I make it."

8. Orgasm - I went to a workshop on tantra and what I remember the most is to engage in self pleasure, even if you do not feel like it. The hormones and neuro-transmitters released are the same for happiness and feeling in love. Apparently sex is better than valium!

9. Reiki/Massage - Intrinsic touch is crucial to human happiness, especially if you are single or choose not to engage in tip number 8.

10. Smile/Laugh - another "fake it till you make it" technique, I schedule a lot of lunches with colleagues and make an effort to hang out with my friends more, as being isolated simply leads to that spiral of depression. Watch funny movies/tv shows/internet sites, avoid the news/radio/facebook, be super selective.

11. Hypnosis /Meditate - I have discussed this before in my post "Meditate, Don't Medicate". Taking the time to set your intentions, experiencing deep relaxation, letting go of stress and simply allowing yourself to be present are soothing, healing and comforting. Check out my YouTube video "A Simple Self Hypnosis Technique" for more information.

12. Exercise - another way to release those feel good endorphins, a twenty minute walk can do wonders for your mood. On rainy days I do the "Just Dance" program on the Wii. Shake it up!

I was first diagnosed with depression when I was 15, a label I have struggled with ever since. In the last couple of decades I have boiled it down from year around symptoms to the month of February, mostly the last two weeks. The first of March has become to signify the beginning of Spring, not just on the earth but truly the rebirth of my psyche. Rather than resisting the dark of winter, I have created a way to move through. Much like knowing it is inevitable that I will get a cold or the flu, I strive to bolster my immune systems - physical and emotional. I accept this time much like accepting being premenstrual, however, I know there are ways to alleviate the symptoms and create better mental health.


Please note: This is not meant to be a substitute for any medical or therapeutic advice. Do what is best for you, but please, create a support system for your self. You deserve a healthy happy life and can manage your emotions without having them manage you!

Frequently Asked Questions about Hypnosis

Hypnosis FAQs

• Q: What is hypnosis and how does it work? A: Hypnosis is a very natural process of entering a state of deep relaxation. This helps your subconscious mind become more attentive, receptive to suggestion, and open to change. All hypnosis is really self-hypnosis. Over a series of hour long sessions, Kayla will guide you to master an ability you already have. Once you have learned how to enter and use your trance state, you can use it to change aspects of your behavior and achieve your desired goals.

•  Q: How can I be sure I can be hypnotized? A: You enter some form of hypnosis several times a day, like when you are driving and pass your turn-off because you haven't been paying attention, or being absorbed in a good book. Everyone goes through natural, altered states before they fall asleep, and as they come into wakefulness. During your session you are aware, not asleep, and in touch with your core values and beliefs. It is easy to communicate and it is easy to come out it - you are always in control.

•  Q: How many sessions will I need? A: Resolving your issue will depend on the issue itself, as well as on your commitment to change. Typically, you will know within 3 sessions whether Hypnotherapy is effective for you. Sessions may be recorded for home practice.

•  Q: How often should I schedule sessions? A: The goal is to teach you simple, effective self hypnosis techniques. Depending on the client's motivation and commitment to change, some clients visit each week, some monthly, others come as often as they see fit to address their needs. 

•  Q: How can hypnosis help me to quit smoking? A: Smoking is an interesting habit- people quit smoking for as many reasons as they started smoking, and hypnosis is helpful in changing any habit. Hypnotherapy allows you to discover the deeper purpose behind smoking and how to fulfill that purpose in a new, healthier, deeply satisfying way. Because all of this is happening in your own imagination, it is always the perfect right solution for you. 

•  Q: What else should I do? A: Drink water; Practice what you learn in sessions, especially the self-hypnosis technique; Keep a journal; Balance work and play; Breathe deep; Check in with other healers for a holistic experience - ask for a referral for any service you may need at this time.   

• Q. How well does hypnosis work for habit cessation? A. Just as people develop habits for many different reasons, people also desire to stop their habits for just as many reasons. Through a combination of guided imagery and regression healing, you will find changing your habits easy and with long term results.    

• Q. What is Hypnosis used for? A. Anytime you would like to feel focused, have a goal to achieve, or want to check in with your deeper self. Whether accessing your inner coach for true motivation, or inner couch for deep relaxation, discover how hypnosis can serve you. 

 I have been going to Kayla Garnet Rose for approximately two years and have used most of her services, including self hypnosis, reiki, and tarot.  She is an insightful and understanding healer and has helped me with several personal issues.  I would recommend Ms. Rose for any of her services and especially her hypnosis.  I will be continuing to use her services in the future.- Minda Lee, Santa Cruz, CA

Vision Board for 2014

Thanksgiving Blues

Got a bunch of pumpkin,
Mushed up in a can,
Tomorrow gonna bake it,
 In a baking pan.
Add some cinnamon,
 Ginger and clove,
Get it really spicy,
Pop it in the burning stove.

Getting ready for Thanksgiving,
Really wanting to give thanks.
Thank goodness we are done with
All the Halloween pranks.
Still time to get out the winter 
Holiday sparkly lights,
Before getting into
All the traditional family fights.

One child is an adult,
But acting like they are two.
Throwing a tantrum,
 Thank goodness, not the food.
The distant cousin is bitter,
Not in a cocktail way...
And who knows what my aunt
 In Italy will say.

My parents will be appalled
I gained so much weight.
I'll try to focus on the love
And ignore all the hate.
I see my brother and his wife
Maybe once or a twice a year.
We are quite distant
Yet in my heart we are near.

Yes, we talk about peace 
And goodwill to men.
But we're ready to bomb, 
Whether foreigners or pathogens.
We feel completely entitled, 
So self righteous.
When the truth is Mr Rogers
Would just tell us all to shush...

There is plenty for everyone, 
All we need to do is share.
There is plenty for all, 
All we need to do is care.
So remember this thanksgiving,
 It's not about which team scores
It's about asking your self
 To spread the love even more.

Reiki for Court Cases?

Reiki is beneficial across time and space

Reiki for Court Cases? Why, Yes!

I have a client who found themselves in the court system. Each time they went to court, I would sit at my office and send them Reiki.

I have a little statue of Joan of Arc and I would hold it in one hand. In the other hand, I would have a pen, and for the next hour make drawings of my visions, which I would then give to my client.

Later, my client said that at every court session they would feel a warm glow across their shoulders and feel as if I was right there, patting them on the back, giving them all the encouragement and reassurance needed.

Click here for more information on Reiki in Santa Cruz. Please use the contact page to schedule your Reiki appointment.

Dreams are Whispers from your Soul

Who do you know who has been experiencing intense dreams? Do you see dreams as a message from your subconscious or from other dimensions? What about recurring dreams? And what is the importance of day-dreaming?

If you are interested in discovering more about your dreams, hypnosis is a wonderful way to continue the conversation in your mind. Hypnotherapy allows you to receive even more messages from your inner wisdom, resolve secret fears, and explore your rich inner landscape. Dream interpretation is a valuable tool that you will use over and over again to deepen your understanding of your own self.

Activate your visionary power today, come on in for some dream work. Call or email today for a session to interpret and enhance your experience. Remember, dreams are whispers from your soul.

The Sacred World Oracle Deck

Written and illustrated by Kris Waldherr, creator of The Goddess Tarot, The Sacred World Oracle deck is a sumptuous feast for the mind and an excellent gift for the upcoming holidays. The cards themselves are pleasing to eye, beautifully illustrated with animals, both real and mythological; pleasing to the hand, nice and thick yet well sized for smaller folks; and further complemented by the rich descriptions found in the accompanying booklet. Waldherr writes, "Oracles bear the double duty of being the message as well as the vehicle to communicate it..."

The Sacred World Oracle is divided into four sections- earth, water, fire, and air. Each suit has a main card for the element, plus ten associated animals. The mythology of each is contained within the booklet, however, merely gazing at the images evokes personal resonances, memories, and inspirations. Two different spreads are also outlined in the LWB, one a past-present-future card spread, fairly standard. The other a five card spread developed by Thalassa of the Daughter's of Divination's San Francisco Bay Area Tarot Symposium ( BATS) was inspired by the ballet Swan Lake is called Black Swan, White Swan. This spread "helps us explore our blind spots - those pesky obstacles we can't, or don't want to see. It also points to the wisdom that lies in front of our noses."

I shuffled the cards, pensating upon it being Day of the Dead. I had a ho-hum Halloween yesterday and had no plans for the new moon this weekend, so doing the Swan reading seemed like a good way to acknowledge the change of seasons and tap into the thinning of the veils. I whispered the names of my ancestors as well as my kin/cats passed, friends who have crossed over and even contemplated my own death, hopefully far into the future. It has been in a time of endings and beginnings, as my daughter started college and I completed my PhD, empty nest syndrome hitting hard after her last visit. Recognizing the new chapter of my life unfolding, I pulled the five cards...

The first card is the black swan, or what you need to see that can get in your way. I pulled I-Earth. A very green card, right away I was aware of the animals suggested not just in the distant mountains but in the nearby copses, a huge oak in the foreground, beautifully framed with vining flowers and a picture of Ivy at the bottom. I reflect up upon how much time I have spent inside my house, working on my studies in particular, especially since my sweetie was hospitalized last spring and we stopped going on our weekend hikes. "When the Earth card appears in an Oracle reading, look for opportunities to take your dreams and turn them into a concrete reality" advises Waldherr. Certainly there is the opportunity to turn my dissertation into a book, changing a thought into form, but I also recognized the message to spend time in the outside world as much as in my interior landscape, and to change my isolation over the last six months into more outgoing, social adventures.

The second card is the magic feather, what you can do about it, and I pull XLIII- The Centaur - half human, half horse, pulling on an arrow notched into a bow, the classic sign of Sagittarius. As an astrologer I reflect that this sign symbolizes the higher mind, higher education, philosophy and travel. Here is the ability to focus on a goal, pull back to take aim, and the follow through. Mercury being retrograde, I notice it is a time of pulling back, with the trust that full moment will be gained after the planets shift in November. A card of being proactive, I feel encouraged to review my long term projects list and initiated some dreams that have been simmering on the back burner.

The third card is the White Swan, or what you need to see that can help you. I draw XXVII- Dragonfly. A lovely woman, maybe from South America, gazes at me, tattooed cheeks, a red dragonfly before her, a jaguar peeping in the background. Several of my students spring to mind, both past and present. The message here is of "unexpected grace found in difficult places". I laugh, this has been my lesson the last two weeks. In The Medicine Cards, dragonfly is a message to confront denials, honor inner truths and to break through any illusions.

The fourth card is also a magic feather, or how to use the solution presented in the card. Now I pull XXXIX- Firefly. I liked the transition from an air element (dragonfly) to a fire element, the ability to change thoughts into action. I grew up on the east coast, so catching fireflies reminded me of my childhood, times past, not an experience I have here now, living in California. Interestingly, the message here is to "seek moments of unexpected beauty that offer gateways for inspiration."

Finally, the fifth card is known as the Swan in Flight, an aerial perspective of the situation which gives an overview of the problems and steps for a solution. I pull II -Cat. Very curious, since I had completely shuffled the cards to pull the first card as the beginning card and the second card as the last, let alone the fact that I had invoked all of my past familiars/cats when setting my intentions. Here we see the Egyptian cat goddess, Bast, in a temple, with cats and kittens all around, even perching on the shoulder of the icon. My personal talisman, again my kin, my family, I am at times ridiculously attached to my cats and find it difficult to leave them for a night, let alone a vacation. The message in the booklet states, "the cat card challenges you to find ways to express your individuality. How can you create more magic and beauty?" Indeed, a good question.

So, personally I avoid using terms such as black/white to indicate problem/solution as it is basically racist if not simply reductionist. I did like the concept of exploring blind spots but wish it was presented in a way that was color blind. That being said, the cards themselves have a wonderful array of images, and although focused on animals, include humans in an international array, from Ganesha to Cimidye. The booklet really covers a gamut of worldwide folklore and hopefully will be expanded into a book. I honor that the author chose to use roman symbols for the cards, reminiscent of the Major Arcana in the Tarot, but I found the need to stop and calculate into western numbers a little tedious and off putting. The backs of each card had a representation of the four elements with the simple inscription, "As Above, So Below". Indeed, a simple reminder that the "function of an oracle remains the same: oracles offer us information. They can provide us with the experience of synchronicity... Our personal experience serve to frame these events, thus releasing information we already possess deep in our psyche."

Blessed be.

Halloween Hypnosis

        

In the hypnotherapy class that I teach, we did a technique called "container", where unwanted feelings, experiences, etc are either contained and disposed of or shelved for a later date. I was to be the demo person, and thought a lot about this on the way to class.

     The issue I wanted to dispose of was my basic frustration with shlockiness of Halloween and my feelings of turning into the Halloween grinch in the last half dozen years. I so hate the tacky decorations, the clutter of plastic crap and handing out of tooth rot. I have been looking forward to packing up the decorations and gifting them to Amber, who of course loves Halloween as her favorite holiday. I realized I could pack it all up today, even hand out the tawdry snakes and skeletons instead of candy, when I thought, wow, I am a snarky cranklepuss, where is my Halloween spirit?

     I lay down on the futon and got relaxed and comfy while my assistant initiated trance. She brought me to safe space, and I found myself in my office reviewing my last client's tarot reading, the cards very clear before me, my cat June sitting on one of the chairs. She asked if I wanted to do the work there or move someplace else, and my gut said to shift. I found myself being 6-7 years old, living in McLean Virginia. I was walking down the street trick or treating, stopping at the Wilson's house who always had the best candy. Mrs. Wilson served us kids thin slices of candied oranges from a silver tray with tiny tongs. I could feel the saliva in my mouth at this memory.

     Kimberly asked my inner mind to discover a symbol of the frustration and shlock of Halloween. Instantly I saw my hard plastic mask, Cinderella, with her empty eyes and fake blonde hair. I remembered crying as I realized I could never be a real princess because I had brown hair, not blonde hair. I remember the edges to the mask cutting into my face and the thin elastic getting tangled in my hair, the feelings of inadequacy and not good enough.

     Kimberly then asked me to find a container for the mask. I saw a silver chest, four feet wide, two feet high and deep, very streamlined, sharp corners, on four ball and claw feet. Inside was lined with deep purple velvet. After taking out a sharpie and coloring Cinderella's hair brown, I added beads and feathers, personalizing the mask. I placed it in the container, locked it with a silver padlock, then sank it to the bottom of the ocean.

     The lid popped open and I observed fish nibbling on the feathers and mask until it had completely disappeared. It looked more like an aquarium, with a sunken pirate ship in the background, tiny silver bubbles escaping from the chest. Kimberly asked me how it felt to be free and how my life would be now that I was free. I saw myself sitting on the front deck, handing out tarot cards, still some candy for the kids, but really connecting with my neighbors in a way that is meaningful for me. Then I saw his and I creating an altar to honor the dead - a photo of his mom, his dad's ring, a basket from my grandmother, my great aunts locket - telling stories and toasting our ancestors, and for me, honoring the millions of women killed during the inquisition.

     Kimberly had me explore this feeling one year from now, five years, ten years. The word that summarized my feelings was "organic". How can I celebrate this time of year in a more organic way, noticing the pull of the moon, the feel of the fall leaves, the smell of autumn in the air, the patterns of life in the spider webs, the abundance of the harvest. I felt more at peace and more excited about Halloween than I had in a very, very long time. Blessed Be.

Silent Retreat, Big Sur

My summer retreat started early, on Thursday, after dropping Amber off at her other parent's, knowing she was also getting ready for her big adventure in Europe. I spent the afternoon in relative silence, exchanging a few words with a neighbor, chatting with the cats, mostly fettering around, packing for the weekend. I had been quite surprised by the last minute email from Chip deciding not to go on the retreat, but was glad that he was taking care of himself, taking care of business, and most importantly, willing to look in on the cats over the weekend.

Friday I cleaned the house, mowed the lawn, did laundry and dishes, put clean sheets on the bed, not just for Chip to enjoy but for me to come home to order and grace after the retreat. I gave up on writing my final paper, realizing quite simply I had more research to do than could accomplish in a few hours,and went on a walk instead, depositing checks at the ATM and stopping for a few goodies from New Leaf before heading down the coast.

Despite leaving early, traffic was ridiculous at 2pm, construction creating bottle necks and head aches as I contemplated alternate routes. I decided the truth was I had nothing else to do, plenty of time, and that this was a part of the retreat, sinking into my thoughts rather than getting distractedly the radio, the hum of the air conditioner my only tune. I found myself in a deep fantasy of our wedding day, now that our plans had changed quite drastically from a large celebration with friends and family to what I had originally envisioned, a completely private ceremony between the two of us. My fancies ranged from trekking out to Point Lobos to skydiving in Hollister, ballroom dancing in the city to quiet beaches in Kauai.

After twenty minutes of stop and go, traffic let up after Park Ave, creating smooth sailing for the rest of the two hour trip down the coast. I waved at my parents house in seaside, noticed the driveway to highlands inn, thought about stopping at the Lucia lodge, and suddenly there was the turn into the New Camaldoli Hermitage. The two mile driveway switch-backed over the golden hills bursting with life - Scottish broom, purple sweet peas, pampas grass cheering me on as red tailed hawks swooped overhead.

I went into the bookstore to register, and to my surprise the assistant on duty not only lives in Santa Cruz, but we live on the same street. Small world, interesting way to meet a neighbor. I drove my car down to the hermitage, found my room and unpacked. I sat outside in my little enclosed garden, enjoying the late afternoon sun. A blue jay flew down from the fig tree, looked at me, ruffled it's feathers and pretended to be hurt. I know this bird ruse to lure predators away, and sure enough as I peered up into the leafy green foliage I could see a nest.

Little peeping noises commenced, and as I sat half a dozen teeny fuzz balls began to appear on the tiny trail by my garden. After a few minutes a mama quail appeared, saw me, and quickly ushered her young into the bushes. Hummingbirds came to sip from the orange monkey flowers as I looked across the ocean.

After a light supper, I walked over to Scholastica were the writing workshops were held. A dozen women sat in a circle, each with several journals piled at their feet, candles on the table flickering over an altar of stones, statues, seashells and pinec ones. I realized that I only had a couple pages left in my journal, so the rest of the weekend would write in old journals on random blank pages, something I found rather pleasing in disrupting any linear conceptions of time.

Saturday I woke up early and started reading a book my daughter had recommended. At 9am we had another workshop, reviewing our journals for themes. After lunch I spent the entire afternoon in my little garden, devouring the four hundred page book. After finishing it, I decided to walk down the two mile driveway for some exercise. Going down was easy enough, but hiking back was way more of a struggle, and I had to stop it seemed every ten yards or so, resting in the shade of tree, photographing the purple sweet peas, California poppies and live oaks. We had another evening workshop, after which I was quite content to simply go to bed.

Sunday I ate quiche for breakfast, then went to the morning session. The rest of the day was evenly divided between reviewing old journals, collating in scraps of paper that had accumulated over the years, and creating a healing mandala for my new blended family. I had a lot of satisfaction in  ripping out some pages and  destroying them, no need to cling to the pain of the past. After dinner I started packing, already thinking about the cats, emails, the rest of my week, reminding my self to stay present and enjoy the last of my stay.

Monday morning I woke up early again, took a shower and finished packing up the car. I took a shorter walk to stretch out my calves, still aching from the hike up the hill on Saturday. The fog filled in the valley and there was this feeling of looking down into the clouds, pale pinks and golds dancing in the snowy whiteness, the crisp blue sky above. Wafts of mists would come and envelop me, not the least bit cold, I felt like I could take bites our of the fog, feed myself on the droplets of moisture. Circling back around to the hermitage I found a picnic table to sit and contemplate, writing down my notes for the weekend, eager to share them with Chip after getting back home to Santa Cruz.

Crystal Healing Meditation

I began the meditation by sitting quietly in my office and doing some deep breathing, moving into a body tour for complete relaxation, then finding myself in my usual "safe space" when I go into trance. In my minds eye, I could see myself sitting in the backyard at my favorite table, sun on my skin, the sound of hummingbirds in the air. A dozen strands of gemstones were heaped up on the table, a little knotted and confused. I began to untangle them, separating out the strands and putting them in order of the rainbow.

When I asked for a guide, my friend Cheryl came through the gate. Cheryl and I had worked together at a metaphysical bookstore about twenty years ago, when I first started learning about crystal healing. We held hands briefly, and then she started to pick up the various strands and put then around my neck.

First was a strand of golden amber, and I felt my solar plexus responding to the warm tones, filling me with a sense of timelessness and vitality. My daughter's name is Amber, and I have also been working with the norse goddess Freya, who wears an amber necklace, so there were many layers of meaning to this gemstone for me. Next was a strand of pale purple amethyst, and felt both my crown chakra and third eye vibrating with the soft lavender, feeling a clearing of my mind and all of my worries. I have several large chunks of amethyst in my house, placed according to feng shui principles to enhance the flow abundance and prosperity. Last was a long strand of deep red garnet which went all the way down to my belly button. I felt both rooted and grounded, purified and cleansed. Seven years ago, I choose the name "Garnet" to be my middle name, a stone I have always loved more than rubies, one that I associate with passion, vitality and the ability to thrive.

I wound the three strands together and pondered how I could use these three gemstones on working with my clients. Raising my own vibration to the highest frequency is clearly important, but I could also see myself laying the strands on my clients' bodies during both hypnotherapy and reiki sessions. I saw myself carrying the necklaces down to the ocean and using the salty sea water to rinse them of past vibrations. I thanked Cheryl for the visitation and the messages, pleased to connect with my friends, human and mineral, after so many years. I began my count up, eager to go home and find my gemstone strands.

Over the next three days I made six different necklaces, five bracelets and six pairs of earrings combining the amethyst, amber and garnet chips with crystal, tigers eye, orange carnelian and sterling silver beads. Next I plan to make some jewelry using green peridot and to find some blue stones to complete the chakra set. I really loved this meditation and feel it is one of the ones I will apply the most, both in my personal healing and in working with clients. Blessed be.