Summer 2014 - The Council of Magickal Arts, Inc.

Transcription

Summer 2014—Healing Modalities
Vol. 34 Issue 3 online Edition
Inside this Accord Issue:
Table of Contents
2—3
The Journey Continues...Musings from the Editor
4
The Auntie @ Crones Corner (On Hiatus)
4
Letter from the ED
Message from the 2014 Web Mistress….
5
Letter from the AED
6
People & Passages
6
Report form your DoR
7
Financial Report from the DoF
Sit A Spell
Update from our DoC
5
7—8
9
10
Across The Fence
Announcements
11—12
Natural Therapies and Natural Health Modalities - Pamela DragonFlame
A Cup of Tea
15— 25
Healing Powers of Mandala Coloring Pages Reprint
26 - 28
Area Rep Reports
10 Most Important Health Benefits of Yarncrafting by Kathryn Vercillo
Team Leads and Senior Staff Reports
12—14
25
29
30—32
33—34
The Story of CMA
35
Guilds & Society News
36
Knitting as Healing Therapy by Mary Desaulniers Reprint
37— 39
Sacred Spaces
40—41
Healing and Modern Medicine by Johnny the Naked Mower Guy
42—43
Members in Need
44
Self Healing Benefits of Meditation by Pamela DragonFlame
45
Summer 2014
Vol. 34 Issue 3
online Edition
Inside this Accord Issue (cont.):
Tautha Dea Review by Laura
Have You Read ...-.Book Review
Phoenix—Smash’s Story by the Spencer's
46
46
47—49
Reike Healing by Anonymous
Testimonials
The Amazing Healing Power of Mindful. Meditation
50
You Can Heal Yourself by Pamela DragonFlame
53
Summer Craft For Everyone: Sandpaper T-shirt
54
2014 Workend Calendar
51
52
55—58
Musings from the Editor:
Greeting CMA Phamily,
I want to thank everyone who submitted an article or who has a dedicated section in the Accord.
It is because of all of you and your submissions that our beloved Accord is evolving. Without you this
issue and all others would not happen. I can create the topic or themes but it takes you to really make
this into the wonderful ezine that it is becoming. I am still looking for others who are willing to send in
submissions.
Here are items I am hoping to include:
*Poets Corner (for poets of all ages) * Artists and/or writers of all ages
*Regular column for movie reviewer * Other regular columns
I look forward to your help to continue to add heart and soul to our beloved Accord.
Upcoming Deadlines:
Samhain October 6th Theme: This Land is Our Land
Yule December 6th Theme: Deities of Yule
Beltane 2015 April 6th Theme: From The Center of the Circle
Summer 2015 June 6th Theme: Totems
Samhain 2015 October 6th Theme TBD
Yule 2015 December 6th Theme Tradition Sharing
If you’ve not liked our CMA Accord Facebook page please go to it here www.facebook.com/CMAAccord
in order to like it and keep informed of deadlines and needs. In the mean time
you can contact me at the [email protected] .
Pamela DragonFlame
From the desk of The Auntie @ Crone’s Corner
My apologies, I do plan on returning as
soon as life returns me from the current
life lessons.
-A
Hello, Hello, Hello, Happy Stewards of Spirithaven!
The wheel of the year turns on and on, to and from and from and to each season and here we pause for
a moment.
This Accord issue regarding “Healing Modalities” had hit close to my heart in many ways. There are many
types of Healing and many methods to consider. Ultimately, it all comes down to YOU making the effort
to heal. The surgeon can remove the tumor, but it is YOUR body which must knit flesh, sinew and bone
back together. Wounds can be bandaged, stitched and cleaned out, but if the body itself refuses to heal,
there will be no wholeness.
Within our community, we have many people who have been wounded. Some wounds are unintentional, others are not. Either way, it is upon us as individuals as well as a community to Heal ourselves first
and let that be our contribution to our community that the community may be healed from within.
Let me not be misunderstood. Sometimes removing something or someone that is not healing to YOU is
necessary for you to heal. The caveat is that removal from you does not necessitate a removal form the
community; and sometimes it is you who must retreat to find your peace before reentering the
community. Ultimately, it all comes down to YOU. “As without, so within”
May your inner healing bring you much peace and love, no matter which modalities you utilize.
Many Blessings,
Carolynn Zoll
2013-2014 Executive Director
Council of the Magickal Arts
www.magickal-arts.org
Message from the 2014 Web Mistress….
Hello all!!
I have been working hard to bring you all a new website. My plan is a crisp easy to navigate site with more
info than ever before. I had planned to be a lot further along than I am now but I have had a personal/
medical setback this year. Last year I started having some issues with feeling and use of my legs. I ended
up in the ER the first part of March with a broken leg and found out that I had a small benign tumor in my
spinal column. On March 3rd I had surgery to remove the tumor. That along with a broken leg slowed me
down a bit. I have pretty much recovered from everything and doing great. So I am back at working on
the site. I will be working hard over the next couple months to have it up and running as soon as I can.
Have a great summer!
Your Web Mistress~Rain
[email protected]
No Report...
Trust in your Billy
Assistant Executive Director
Council of Magical-arts
2013-2014
If you know of a birth, wiccaning, handfasting or brags please send the info to
[email protected].
Births
Wiccanings
Handfastings
Brags
Deaths
Morning Glory Zell-Ravenheart,
transitioned from this world May
13, 2014, She was known by many
personally at CMA as well as the
world. Her essence will be missed
by many.
A big shout out to the Coven of the
Sacred Harlots (COSH), thanks to your
hard work the money from your
auction combined with the money
from the San Antonio Quarter
Auction has put us almost half way to
our goal of getting an ice machine for
the land.
No Report…
Troy
Director of Records
Council of Magical-arts
2013-2014
Finance Report
The Beltane festival was a success and we paid our bills.
Financial statements are not available yet as our books are being reorganized by a new accounting service
to make them more user friendly. As of this writing we have
$ 4543.53 in checking
$ 22, 301 in the mortgage pay off account
$ 350.86 in the Ranch and savings accounts.
A more detailed financial statement will be available in September.
If you have any questions please contact the Director of Finance at [email protected]. That is the
ONLY person that has accurate financial information.
The negotiation on the oil lease is ongoing and we hope to have the contract settled by mid-June. We are
currently waiting on the landsmen to approve the changes to the contract before signing. They did agree
to our requests in discussion, however since an addendum has been added they must officially approve
the changes, then I will be able to sight the contract and accept the bonus money. We did engage an oil
and gas attorney at a fee of $ 1, 720 which has been paid.
Registration has started for Samhain 2014. While we do not require payment until the day before entering
the event, please consider paying as early as possible, it makes planning easier. We have to commit to
contracts in advance and having the capitol on hand rather than gambling that income will happens is really
important.
Lifetime event and memberships’ are still available at $ 1200 each (nontransferable lifetime event and
membership admittance to CMA events, including early admittance on Wednesday at no charge) and
Lifetime membership only is available at $ 500 per member (gains you a $ 10 discount on event tickets).
Both of these may be paid out monthly, however the lifetime contract must be completely paid to use the
benefits of free admission. Contact the office at [email protected] for more information.
We DESPERATLY need to raise funds for a truck at Spirit Haven. We have been using personal vehicles for 10
years for transport of materials needed. These vehicles have finally died and are no longer available. This
need is really urgent as we are having trouble getting and moving materials without the vehicles. It is very
expensive to use delivery where we are located.
Ideally we need a 10-12 foot flatbed with both a gooseneck and removable fifth wheel, 5 ton would be
great. This vehicle would allow us to rent or borrow a dump trailer until we could acquire one ourselves to
pick up road base and other materials cost effectively. We would prefer the flat bed to a pick up as it is
more versatile and doesn’t waste money on extras as personal use vehicles do. Most utility pickups are
worn out when they hit market so those are not very attractive either. Used commercial trucks on the other
hand are attractive, cost effective and are designed to run well into the upper 6 digit mileage range.
The last time we purchased road base we spent $365 for 20 yards, the material cost was $65 the rest was
trucking, so our can see our desire here, we could have picked up 100 yards for the same amount. We do
not have the ability to pick up supplies at the current time and it is not fair to ask people to use their own
vehicles. Folks we are paying off 100 acres we bought at roughly $110 and acre which is now worth $400450 and acre.
We also desperately need a tractor and implements. We no longer will accept donations of used and we will
NOT likely buy used equipment (except under special circumstances). Past experiences have shown us it is
more costly to maintain aged equipment with unknown history than to purchase new. The exception would
be a truck. Current estimated cost is $ 19,500.
In each of these situations we can raise money outright or secure a loan to purchase. When the property is
paid off we will work with the bank to secure credit for CMA the corporation which may be an avenue to
follow.
If you can help or are interested in working out solutions please contact the finance director.
Gary
Sit A Spell
Today we are talking about how your Kitchen Witchery can be used to heal yourself, your
family, neighbors, Phamily, tribe and loved ones. There are many times when you have the opportunity
to use your wonderful magickal skills to bring healing to these souls. Kitchen Witchery is as simplistic as
any other form of magick. It is based on your intent. When you have a clear picture in your mind and
heart of what it is you wish to accomplish in your kitchen preparing the food. Perhaps you are making a
family meal to increase the love and harmony in your home, a meal for a family that has lost a loved one
or been through some other hurt and you are wanting to help heal their souls. Today I want to share with
you some simple steps that can help you to incorporate your magickal intent into your meals.
It all begins with your choice of item, from the moment that you make your decision to make something
your spell work has begun. As you select each item for your recipe your energy and intent is going into
that specific food item and you are planning out how each item will work together for the healing of the
recipients. For me if I am working on something to bring healing joy to another's heart I will also have
some upbeat music playing to increase my vibrational energy as well. I turn off the phone to avoid any
distractions. (As I would with any other magickal spell work.) Then I begin my work the entire time
keeping my intent in my mind. Sometimes I will add a chant as I am stirring together the ingredients, it
just depends on what I am making.
Here are some simple things that you can do:

When stirring a recipe, depending on your goal and what you want to achieve, stir deosil or
widdershins.

When making a sandwich , spread condiments like mustard in a sigil for your purpose.

When baking breads, add herbs or spices that correspond with your magickal needs.

When making a cake, spread your icing starting with a signal, then cover.

When making a pie, arrange your filling to build a healing circle inside the pie.
Again it is the clarity of your intent that makes this work. It is a simplistic step but not to be disregarded.
I hope these tips help you. In the meantime keep the fires burning and the magick flowing...
Happy Summer, all! The first edition of the new CMA News & Notes newsletter went out mid-May, and
we've had some great feedback from our members. Look for future editions to bring you important
updates on CMA goings-on. To subscribe to the CMA News & Notes via Constant Contact, visit
http://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/d.jsp?llr=64vxeymab&p=oi&m=1113206806
The Accord has a new home on Facebook! Visit https://www.facebook.com/CMAAccord and like us to
stay updated on themes, deadlines, publication dates, and all things Accord.
Looking for a space to host a workshop, event, or ritual during festival? Want to leave an altar offering at
Spirit Haven but not sure what would be best or most appropriate for a certain space? Want to help with
maintaining a sacred space but not sure where to start? Well, you're in luck! Email addresses have been
created for our Sacred Space coordinators; this will help our members work with this dedicated batch of
volunteers regarding use and care of Spirit Haven's designated sacred spaces.
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
If you have any comments or concerns about CMA communications, I’m always ready to listen at
[email protected]. Have ideas or suggestions about new initiatives or ways to improve our
existing efforts? I’d love to hear from you!
Megan Dobson
~ 2014 Director of Communications
Across the Fence
With summer just around the corner, thoughts turn to grills, meat and the great
outdoors. I found a wonderful recipe that I wanted to share with you. It uses one of the
cheaper meats – flank steak (it was a lot cheaper before people discovered fajitas!), and
if thinly sliced and marinade, can be very tender. There are a lot of ingredients, but in small enough
quantities, most can be found on hand. Once the meat has soaked up the wonderful goodness of the
orange, lemon and lime, one can cook this outside (pan on the grill), or to beat the heat, use the stove top.
I’ve made this at CMA and offered Mik a taste. He loved it! ...and now, without further ado, beef with
citrus marinade –
• 31⁄2 pounds flank steak, thinly sliced in 1⁄4 inch slices
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 teaspoon of orange zest
• 1⁄2 cup lime juice
• 1 teaspoon of lime zest
• 1⁄4 cup lemon juice
• 1⁄2 teaspoon of lemon zest
• 1/8 cup olive oil
• 1⁄4 cup minced red onion
• 1⁄2 cup finely chopped cilantro, divided
• 2 tablespoons minced jalapeno
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
• Optional: guacamole for garnish
Across the Fence (Cont.)
Directions
1. Place sliced beef in a in a one-gallon storage bag or large bowl and set aside.
2. In a medium sized bowl, whisk together orange juice and zest, lime juice and zest, lemon juice and zest,
olive oil, red onion, 1⁄4 cup cilantro, jalapeno, garlic, chipotle peppers, salt, cumin and brown sugar.
3. Pour 1⁄4 cup of marinade into another large bowl and toss with remaining cilantro. Set aside. Pour the
remaining marinade onto the beef and toss to coat.
4. Cover the meat, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour, but no longer than 1 hour.
5. Heat a heavy bottom skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium heat.
6. Remove beef from refrigerator and discard the marinade. Cook beef in batches to medium rare, about
2 to 3 minutes per side.
7. As beef is removed from skillet and hot, add it to the reserved marinade. Serve over rice, mashed
potatoes or salad greens.
Till next time!
Rosethorn
Call For Candidates
Declarations of candidacy are now being accepted for the 2015 CMA Board of Directors. Requirements for
candidacy can be found at http://www.magickal-arts.org/elections-main.php on our website. The duties
of the various CMA offices can be found at http://www.magickal-arts.org/elections-serving.php, and the
form link to submit your declaration can be found on our website at http://www.magickal-arts.org/
elections-runningforoffice.php.
All candidates will be vetted for qualification requirements by the current Director of Records, and once
confirmed, the declarations will be posted on our Meet the Candidates page. The cutoff deadline for
declarations is September 1st at 11:59PM (Central).
SAMHAIN 2014 REGISTRATION IS LIVE!!
Online Registration for Samhain 2014: This Land Is Our Land is LIVE! We look forward to celebrating
the FULL OWNERSHIP of Spirit Haven, and we're working hard to make this the best festival in CMA's
long history. You can go here http://www.formstack.com/forms/?1497207-zYpQEG4tPA and register
now to be part of this incredible event! Registration closes on October 10, 2014, 11:59PM
(Central).
Please note that this link will take you to the Community Service form, which must be completed prior
to registration. Once you submit that form, you will be automatically redirected to the Festival
Registration form to purchase your ticket(s). If you have any questions, please contact
[email protected] and our Registrar will be happy to assist you.
Samhain 2014 Deadlines
(NOTE: All deadlines occur at 11:59PM (Central) on the date listed.)
September 1st
 Declaration of Candidates cut off
September 15th
 Badge requests due to [email protected]
 New policy proposals and Great Works agenda items due to Director of Records
 Festival Guide Changes (non-workshop related) due to [email protected]
 Team Lead volunteer needs due to CS Team Lead
October 1st
 Beltane 2015 Graphics Contest submissions due to Director of Communications
 Requests to join Set up Crew due to [email protected]
 Work Exchange Requests due to Assistant Executive Director
 Workshop/Personal Ritual/Event Requests due
October 10th

Online festival registration ends, full payments due.
Have a question about Samhain 2014 or need some help with festival issues? Start here!

Registration/tickets/payments - [email protected]

Festival guide and scheduling - [email protected]

Great Works agenda - [email protected]

Work Exchange Program - [email protected]

Constant Contact mail-outs - [email protected]
Natural Therapies and Natural Health Modalities
By: Pamela DragonFlame
When I first selected this topic I had no idea of just how large of a topic it actually covered. My thoughts
were the natural or common healing modalities that were all familiar to many of us, such as Reiki, Energy
work, Chakra balancing, Massage, Acupressure or Acupuncture. What I have learned in this journey is
that there are many more. In doing my research I have put together this list as a result of a Google search:
A
Acupressure & Acupuncture: Acupressure is one of the oldest and most widespread healing methods in the
world. By using deep finger pressure at certain points, practitioners can reduce tension, increase circulation
and offer relief for many complaints. It is a part of Chinese Traditional Medicine and often described as
"Acupuncture without the needles".
Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy has been around for some 6000 years and involves the use of pure essential
oils (fragrant plant extracts), usually through massage, inhalation, baths or compresses. In an aromatherapy
massage, individual blends are prepared by the practitioner, in a base of cold pressed oil and then applied
to the patient's skin through a remedial or relaxing massage.
Art Therapy: Art therapy uses art media, images and the overall creative art process along as a reflection of
an individual’s development, ability, personality, interest, concern and conflict. The therapy is based on the
belief that the creative process involved in the making of art if healing and life-enhancing. Through creating
art and talking about art with an art therapist, one can increase awareness of self, cope with symptoms,
stress, and traumatic experiences, enhance cognitive abilities, and enjoy the life-affirming pleasures of
artistic creativity.
Ayurveda: Ayurveda is an ancient Indian medical practice that encompasses a range of treatments,
including Herbal Medicine, changes in diet, meditation, massage and Yoga, to maintain or restore health.
B
Biofeedback: Biofeedback is a technique in which people are trained to recognize and use the signals that
body gives off in order to improve their health. It operates on the belief that we are able to use our
willpower and our mind to influence the automatic functions of our bodies such as heart rate and
breathing.
Body Harmony®: Body Harmony is a continually evolving system that encompasses many aspects of
bodywork. As an open system of treatment, it represents a philosophy that takes into account all aspects of
the client: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.
BodyTalk: BodyTalk is a multifaceted approach to holistic healing that draws on a number of popular
modalities. These include kinesiology, muscle testing, tapping, yoga, psychology as well as Ayurveda and
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Modern lifestyles put a significant stress on our bodies and internal
systems leading them to become compromised.
Beltane 2015 Graphics Contest
The graphics contest for Beltane 2015: "From the Center of the Circle" is now open! The graphic must be
in .jpg, .bmp, or .gif format and must be suitable for printing on a shirt. Once selected and announced, the
winning entry will be made available for purchase on a variety of items in our CafePress store.
Submissions must be sent to [email protected] by October 1st at 11:59PM (Central). The
winning entry will be announced at the Samhain 2014 Great Works meeting, and the winner will receive a
free ticket to the Beltane 2015 festival!
Samhain 2014 Work Exchange Program
The festival Work Exchange program was created as a way to allow some members in tight financial
situations to attend festival while still contributing to the festival community. Members approved for the
program will have their registration fees waived in exchange for the completion of twelve hours of
community service during festival. (The standard commitment for paying attendees is two hours.)
Community service shifts will be assigned by the Assistant Executive Director or another Senior Staff
member according to participant ability and festival needs.
There are a limited number of slots available in the Work Exchange program, and all participants must be
approved by the Assistant Executive Director. Requests for participation can be sent to [email protected] between August 1, 2014 and October 1, 2014. (If you intend to request participation in the
program, please do not register for festival until you have confirmation of approval.)
PPD Liaison Appointed to Communications Staff
We're pleased to announce that Jaela Spencer has joined the Communications staff as CMA's new PPD
Liaison! Jaela will be working with Pagan Pride Day coordinators and our Area Representatives across the
state to bring a CMA presence to these amazing community celebrations.
If you are a Texas Pagan Pride Day coordinator, a CMA Area Representative, or if you'd just like to reach out
and see how you can help, please contact Jaela at [email protected].
Natural Therapies and Natural Health Modalities (Cont.)
B
Bowen Therapy: The Bowen Technique is a cross fiber muscle release technique that balances and
stimulates energy flows, resulting in a deep sense of overall relaxation. There are regular pauses between
the series of gentle moves to give the body the required time to allow the body to reset and heal itself.
Breathwork: The breath is one of the most powerful transformative tools we have to access our essence
and potential. Breathwork uses the breath (full, conscious, connected breathing) to clear unresolved issues,
limiting beliefs and past events in our lives that are standing in the way of us reaching our potential,
allowing our dreams to be fulfilled and feeling alive, happy and inspired. It is a client focused, self generated
process.
C
Chiropractic: Chiropractic was founded in 1895, in the USA, by Daniel David Palmer but it is now a much
more diverse therapy than its origins. It is based upon the understanding that good health is dependent
upon a normally functioning nervous system, especially the spine and nerves extending from the spine to all
parts of the body. Chiropractic Doctors or Chiropractors, may sometimes refer to a patient's subluxation,
which is a misalignment of the spine that interferes with nerve signals transmitted by the brain.
Colonic Irrigation: Colonic Irrigation, or Colon Hydrotherapy, has its roots in ancient Egypt, Greece and India
and has been used in the Western world since the 1800s. Practitioners believe that toxins built up in the
bowel may be responsible for many health problems and the goal is, therefore, to flush them from the
colon.
Colour Therapy: Using the seven colours of the spectrum, Colour Therapy aims to stimulate our body’s own
healing process whilst balancing and enhancing our body’s energy centres, known as Chakras.
Craniosacral Therapy: Craniosacral Therapy is a hands-on healing technique, whereby therapists gently
mobilise and release the craniosacral system, which includes the soft tissue of the head (cranium), the spine
down to its tail end (the sacral area) and the pelvis. It focuses on the cerebrospinal fluid, which is produced
and absorbed by the body and in particular, the irregularities in the flow of this fluid.
Crystal Therapy: Crystal Therapy uses semiprecious and precious stones to enhance mental, spiritual and
physical healing. It is based on the belief that certain crystals and gems possess a powerful energy that can
positively affect imbalances in human energy fields and thus promote health and well-being.
Cupping: Cupping is one aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine that you may not have heard of before but
that can have many benefits for you – from helping with pain right through to respiratory disorders.
D
Day Spas: Day spas are places that renew the body, mind and soul. A good day spa should see you leaving
feeling refreshed, revitalized and totally pampered.
Dorn Therapy: Dorn therapy, also known as Dorn Spinal Therapy, is a therapy that is excellent for problems
with the back, joints, organs, and headaches, which have been caused by vertebrae that are in the wrong
place or legs that are different lengths. The therapy was founded in Germany over 30 years ago.
E
Ear Candling: This ancient clearing method has been used by the Egyptians (who apparently used reeds), the
Chinese, Greeks, and the Hopi Indians of America.
EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques): Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) centres on the theory that the
cause of all negative emotions is a disruption in the body's energy system. Practitioners use their fingertips
(or have the client perform a tapping routine on themselves) to stimulate certain meridian energy points, on
the head, face, hands and upper torso, as the client focuses on the problem or negative feelings they are
harboring. (Also known as Tapping)
Energy Healing: The goal of Energy Healing is to restore harmony, energy and balance within the human
energy system through touch. The touch used influences this system, notably the energy field that surrounds
the body. There are many different types of Energy Healing and these include, but are not limited to, Reiki,
Spiritual Healing and EFT.
Exercise Physiology: The goal of exercise physiology is to prevent and manage injuries and chronic diseases,
through lifestyle, exercise and behavior modification.
F
Feldenkrais Method: The Feldenkrais Method is recognized for its demonstrated ability to improve posture,
flexibility, coordination, self-image and to alleviate muscular tension and pain. The effectiveness of the
Feldenkrais Method is in its ability to access the nervous system's own innate processes to change and refine
functioning. The Feldenkrais Method is a unique and sophisticated approach to human understanding,
learning and change.
Feng Shui: Feng Shui (pronounced "Fung Schway"), is an ancient Chinese art of manipulating and arranging
the surrounding environment in order to attract positive life energy, or "Chi". It is understood that people
are affected by their environments, either positively or negatively. Feng Shui aims to unblock obstructions or
obstacles, so that the Chi may flow smoothly.
F
Flower Essences: Flower remedies are not new, there has been an ancient tradition of flower essences being
used throughout the world by the Australian Aboriginals, the Egyptians, in India, Asia, South America and
Europe. Hildegard von Bingen (12th century) and Paracelsus (15th century) both wrote about the use of
flowering plants to treat health imbalances.
H
Herbal Medicine: Herbal Medicine is still the first choice in many cultures, being successfully used for
thousands of years. Every culture has its own style of Herbalism, such as Indian Ayurvedic Medicine and
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Herbalists prepare unique treatments, after consultations with clients
that will include discussions about lifestyle, medical history and nutrition. Western Herbalists use only whole
plants or plant parts in their preparations but other modalities such as TCM, can also include animal or
mineral products. Clients may be treated through the use of teas, capsules and tablets, extracts and
tinctures, essential oils (Aromatherapy) and various other herbal preparations.
Homoeopathy: Discovered in the late 1700’s, homoeopathy is a low-cost, non-toxic system of medicine. The
system of homoeopathic healing assists the natural tendency of the body to heal itself. It recognizes that all
symptoms of ill health are expressions of disharmony within the whole person and that it is the patient who
needs treatment not the disease.
Hypnotherapy: Much modern day mental and emotional distress and even some physical illness can be
traced to underlying anxiety, tension and stress arising out of an imbalance between our cognitive or
conscious beliefs and desires, and the beliefs and desires we hold below conscious awareness in the
sub-conscious mind.
I
Iridology: Iridology is the study of the iris, or coloured part of the eye. The iris reveals changing conditions of
every part of the organ of the body. Through various marks, signs and discoloration in the iris, nature reveals
inherited weaknesses and strengths. Iridology cannot detect a specific disease however it can tell an
individual if they have over or under activity in specific areas of the body.
K
Kinesiology: As a system of natural health care originating in the 1960s, Kinesiology (the science of
movement) combines muscle testing and monitoring, with the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine to
assess energy and body function, applying a range of gentle yet powerful healing techniques to improve
health, wellbeing and vitality.
L
Laser Therapy: Laser therapy can be used for a variety of things including acupuncture, hair removal, skin
disorders and muscular conditions. Skin disorders that can be treated include rosacea, facial and leg veins,
scars, psoriasis, wrinkles, birthmarks, stretch marks, warts, scarring and burns. Laser therapy can also be
used for muscular conditions such as sciatica, frozen shoulder and tennis elbow.
Lymphatic Drainage: The Lymphatic system is our front line of defense in fighting bodily infections,
detoxifying the body and transporting metabolic wastes, excess water, bacteria and toxins out of the body.
M
Magnetic Field Therapy: Magnetic Field Therapy involves the placing of magnetic devices on or near the
body to relieve pain and facilitate healing. This treatment theorizes that the magnetic fields produced by
magnets can penetrate the human body and affect the functioning of individual cells and improve the
working of the nervous system and various organs. How exactly the magnets work to heal, remains
somewhat unknown.
Massage actually has several variants listed. Here are just a few.
Massage - Chinese: Chinese Massage is an ancient tradition, being part of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This
effective and comprehensive therapy is also closely related to Herbal Medicine, Acupuncture and
Acupressure.
Massage - Deep Tissue: Deep Tissue Massage, as its name says, focuses on the deeper layers of muscle
tissue. It is designed to reach the deep sections of thick muscles, specifically the individual muscle fibers.
Massage - Hawaiian: Hawaiian massage is known as “Kahuna”, Lomi Lomi”, or “Temple Style” massage.
Traditionally, Hawaiian massage was part of the Hawaiian Rites of Passage as it is thought to be both
transformational and healing. It balances the body and the mind, and heals a person physically, emotionally
and spiritually.
Massage - Indian Head: Indian head massage originated in India over 1000 years ago and began as a way of
keeping the hair in good condition. It is based on the ancient healing system of Ayurveda. This form of
massage works on the upper back, shoulders, upper arms, neck, scalp, ears and face.
Massage - Oncology: Oncology Massage (OM) is 'mindful massage' focusing on eliciting the relaxation
response in clients who have cancer, are in treatment for cancer or who have a history of cancer.
M
Massage - Stone Therapy: Stone therapy massage utilizes both hot and cold stones incorporated with
massage techniques in order to bring about a feeling of deep relaxation and wellbeing. The hot stones are
usually volcanic rocks such as basalt and cold stones are marble or cool sedimentary stones. The stones are
heated or chilled to varying temperatures and come in all shapes and sizes. The stones are placed on the
client according to their needs and, when used with massage, can provide benefits that are not possible
through normal massage
Massage - Swedish / Relaxation: Swedish Massage is a system of long strokes, kneading, friction, tapping,
percussion, vibration and shaking motions that apply pressure between muscles and bones, rubbing in the
same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart. Swedish Massage feels good, is relaxing and
invigorating.
Massage - Thai: Thai Massage is an interactive manipulation of the body using passive stretching and gentle
pressure with the hands and feet. These movements help to adjust the skeletal structure, increase flexibility,
relieve muscular and joint tension, stimulate internal organs and balance the body's energy system. The
effect is both relaxing as well as energizing.
Meditation: There are many different styles of Meditation which are usually techniques developed by diverse
cultures and religions over thousands of years. Most major religions have a tradition of Meditation included
in their teachings, as it is used for spiritual growth, but these days the benefits of Meditation are also being
recognized in areas of physical health.
Mindfulness: Mindfulness is a mental state where we are consciously aware of the present moment, while
being conscious of our thoughts, feelings and wider environment. The practice of mindfulness derives from
meditation, which in turn has roots in the ancient Buddhist discipline of reflective contemplation. It is
essentially about cultivating an awareness of the world around you, without excluding anything. Mindfulness
emphasizes sensual experience over analytical thinking.
Myofascial Release Therapy: A gentle blend of stretching and massage, Myofascial Release Therapy uses
hands-on manipulation of the entire body to promote healing, release and pain relief. The therapy is based
on the idea that poor posture, physical injury, illness and emotional stress can throw the body out of
alignment and cause its intricate web of fascia to become tight and constricted.
N
Naturopathy: Naturopathic Medicine, or Naturopathy, is a practice of preventing, assessing and treating
conditions of the human mind and body. By integrating conventional health sciences with a range of natural
therapies and traditional medicines, naturopathy treats the patient's mental, emotional and physical states
for a lasting effect. The foundation of Naturopathy is the philosophy of the "healing power of nature".
N
Naturopathy (cont.): This means that the body has its own healing energy within and with the help of
naturopathic treatment, the body can repair itself and recover from illness if it is in a healthy and supportive
environment.
O
Osteopathy: The philosophy of Osteopathy is to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. It places
emphasis on the relationships between the body's structure, framework and function, teaching the
appreciation of the body's ability to heal itself.
P
Polarity Therapy: Dr Randolph Stone developed Polarity Therapy, which heals by activating the Chi energy
and balancing the natural life force energy fields around the body. Universal energy flows through all of
nature, and as we are a part of nature, the energy also flows through and sustains us by the law of opposites.
Pranic Healing: Pranic Healing uses prana, or life energy, to create health and a feeling of well being in a
person. Choa Kok Sui, a scientist, chemical engineer and teacher developed the modern form of Pranic
Healing. Generally speaking, it works by clearing and correcting energy or pranic imbalances and blockages.
Energy that is diseased, congested or depleted is removed, making room for fresh, new energy.
Q
Qi Gong: Qi Gong is an ancient practice that can be practiced by anyone and has a huge amount of health
benefits. Read on to find out more. There are four main divisions of Qi Gong, depending on the goal of the
practitioner – spiritual, medical, martial, and athletic. Balancing the flow of Qi allows the body to heal itself.
Gong means work or hard task, and it is the task of learning how to control the flow of Qi through the body
using breath, movement, and meditation.
R
Reconnective Healing: Reconnective Healing® is often a life-changing experience, utilizing new frequencies to
allow for the healing of the body, mind and spirit. Reconnective Healing® is beyond any technique you’ve
ever encountered. These highly palpable energies are initiated by your Reconnective Healing Practitioner® at
the start of your session, and continue working with you long after your visit has ended. Through your
participation in these sessions, you will be forever changed, operating at and attuned to, a higher frequency
than ever before.
R
Reflexology: Reflexology is based on the principle that congestion or tension in any part of the foot mirrors
congestion or tension in a corresponding part of the body. These parts, known as reflex points can also be
found on the hands and other body parts, however, the most commonly treated area is the feet.
Reiki: Reiki treatment follows a traditional pattern of hand positions, resting without pressure on or above
the body. Reiki is pure energy, and brings about deep relaxation and healing.
Retreats: Attending a retreat is a great way to get away from it all, giving one time to reflect on life, work
through a challenge or meet like-minded people. They provide a serene haven with no distractions and
dedicated staff and practitioners to facilitate your every need. No surprise that retreats have become a
popular remedy for busy, time-poor modern lifestyles where silence, quiet and a fresh perspective are not on
the menu. (For many of us our retreats happen at our CMA work ends, Beltane and Samhain.)
Rolfing® or SI: Rolfing Structural Integration, or Rolfing as it is more commonly known, was devised by Dr. Ida
P Rolf, as a holistic system of soft tissue manipulation and movement education. It is an approach to healing
that deals with the way the body's structure affects its function.
S
SCENAR Therapy: SCENAR therapy (Self Controlled Energo Neuro Adaptive Regulator) utilizes
electro-stimulation to stimulate the body’s own healing processes. A small hand held device, that was
originally developed in Russia, generates the electrical impulses. When applied to the body the electrical
waves are transmitted throughout the user. The device is also able to measure the response of the body to
the electrical impulses – providing the user with valuable bio-feedback: the response of the body to the
treatment.
Shiatsu: Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on Japanese healing therapy that has been formulated over the last
100 years from the traditional Japanese amma massage which is a feel good, therapeutic massage. Shiatsu
literally means finger pressure and as such describes part of the therapy whereby natural body weight
(finger, thumbs, elbows, forearms, feet and knees) is used in applying pressure to special points on the body.
This is combined with stretches, joint rotations and joint manipulation to give an all-over treatment, which
aims at treating the patient on a holistic level.
Sound Therapy: The field of sound therapy was pioneered by the French ear, nose and throat specialist, Dr.
Tomatis in the late 1940s when he discovered that he could repair the damaged hearing of opera singers and
factory workers by playing to them the sounds they could no longer hear. He discovered the link between the
ear and the voice and discovered that by improving the way we listen, he could dramatically improve
learning, balance, coordination and posture as well as communication and creativity. Listening is very
different to hearing – listening is an active process we can choose to do while hearing is passive and
automatic.
Natural Therapies and Natural Health Modalities
(Conti.)
S
Sound Therapy (cont.): As the ear and brain becomes receptive to high frequency sounds, energy and
performance increases and a feeling of wellness becomes more common. While sound therapy is relatively
new in many countries like Australia, it has a long tradition in Europe.
Spiritual Healing: Spiritual Healing - The term Spiritual Healing covers a very wide range of treatment styles
and may also be known by such names as Energetic Healing, Vibrational Healing or Clairvoyant Healing.
Generally speaking, one of the key definitions of these modalities is that they are therapeutic and healing in
some way (emotionally, mentally, physically) without the needed for the client to take any medicines or
remedies. The healing is effected purely through the use of Energy, Prana, Chi or Light.
T
Tai Chi: Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese discipline that integrates mind, body and spirit. Practitioners use
meditation and deep breathing as they move through a series of continuous exercises, called 'forms', which
resemble slow-moving ballet. Tai Chi is a component of Traditional Chinese Medicine that works to improve
the flow of internal energy (Qi) throughout the body.
Theta Healing: Theta healing was developed by Vianna Stibal and it is a fast, effective technique that is
powerful and loving, and taps into a level of being that is beyond time and space. It helps you to quickly
and safely change the way that you think and feel. Read on to learn more about theta healing.
Thought Field Therapy: Thought Field Therapy (TFT) was developed over 40 years ago by Dr Roger Callahan
PhD, a pioneer of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. Put simply, TFT is a drug free and non-invasive treatment
that is designed to eliminate the cause of negative emotions.
Time Line Therapy®: Time line therapy is an offshoot of Neuro Linguistic Programming and Ericksonian
Hypnosis. It was developed by Tad James in 1985. Time line therapy helps us to make sense out of our
temporal experiences, as well as change our understanding of how negative emotions and limiting
decisions affect us, and also describes how to create a meaningful future.
Touch for Health: Touch For Health is a form of kinesiology that restores the body to its natural state of
health. Developed in the early 1970s by Dr. John Thie, Touch For Health is internationally recognized as the
fundamental training concepts for kinesiology.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM ), is a complete medical system
that has diagnosed, treated and prevented illness for over 23 centuries. While it can remedy ailments and
alter states of mind, TCM can also enhance recuperative power, immunity, and the capacity for pleasure,
work and creativity.
T
Trigger Point Therapy: Trigger points, also known as Myofascial trigger points, are areas of hyperirritability in
the soft tissue structure. These can be acute sources of pain or latent, unnoticed by the client until pressure
is applied by the practitioner. Trigger points are manifested as small contraction knots in the muscles, that
control the state of contraction and active ones may cause muscle spasm and referred pain.
Y
Yoga - All: Today, yoga is commonly practiced throughout the world and holds a prominent place in the
emerging field of mind/body medicine. Yoga like massage has several different forms, here is just a few:
Yoga - Anusara: The word “anusara” means “flowing with grace”. This form of yoga was founded in 1997 by
John Friend and it is designed to help students to align with the “divine”, which is the deeper spirituality in
the universe. Anusara yoga is focused on the heart in that the poses are expressed from the inside out. The
key to Anusara yoga is that it helps us with self-examination, discovery and being open to new ideas.
Yoga - Ashtanga: Ashtanga yoga is a vigorous form of yoga that utilises both the breath and a series of poses
to improve the body and the mind. The aerobic workout removes impurities from the system and
strengthens the circulatory system.
Yoga - Bikram: Bikram yoga was developed by Bikram Choudhury and it consists of a series of 26 poses and
two breathing exercises that are performed in a room that is heated to approximately 37 degrees. The poses
are demanding but performing them in a heated room means that muscles become more pliant and the
heat encourages sweating, which purifies the body.
Yoga - Hatha: When people refer to “yoga” in general, this is actually Hatha yoga. Hatha yoga was
introduced in the 15th century in India and it is the most popular yoga style. It can also be thought of as one
of the “parents” of yoga as many other styles have originated from Hatha yoga, including power yoga,
Bikram yoga, Ashtanga yoga, and Kundalini yoga. The word “Hatha” is Sanskrit, with “ha” meaning “sun”,
and “tha” meaning “moon”.
Yoga - Iyengar: Iyengar yoga focuses on the use of props when performing Asanas (or poses). It is designed
to create an integration of the mind, body and spirit and is firmly based on the traditional eight limbs of
yoga. These limbs were outlined in an ancient text by Patanjali in The Yoga Sutras
Yoga - Kundalini: Kundalini yoga was first introduced to the western world by Yogi Bhajan in 1969. It uses
poses (Asanas), breathing techniques (Pranayama), hand and finger movements (Mudras), body locks
(Bhandas) and meditation simultaneously or in sequence to create specific effects within the body. These
sequences are called “Kriyas”. The goal of this form of yoga is to awaken the Kundalini energy which lies at
the base of the spine, like a coiled snake. In fact, the word “Kundalini” means coiling or coiled. This energy is
vast and creative.
Y
Yoga - Raja: Raja yoga literally means the king of yogas. In this form of yoga, the mind is the instrument used
for looking inwards and uncovering the inner self.
Yoga - Satyananda: Satyananda yoga is a system of yoga that aims to bring together all areas of the body. In
fact, it is referred to as the Yoga of the Head, Heart, and Hands. The head represents intellect, the heart
represents compassion, and the hands represent action.
Yoga - Vinyasa: Vinyasa is a term that covers a range of yoga classes and the word “Vinyasa” means
“breath-synchronized movement” or “flow”. Put simply, the teacher of the class will instruct you to move
from one pose or asana to the next on inhalation or exhalation. Essentially, the class flows from one pose to
the next while incorporating specific breathing patterns. It is a very unique and creative form of yoga.
I was amazed by the numerous modalities that showed up. As I said this is just a portion of the list. I know
that there are more modalities that many of us use from home remedies to prayer. Just know that the next
time you have an ailment or pain reaching for a prescription is not necessarily the only solution and one of
these may be a safer choice.
A Cup of Tea
Springtime is quickly transitioning to summer and with that transition comes so many different choices
for tea blends. If you're like me individually blending your own brings its own pleasure. While this is
awesome there are still some that do not have the ability to grow everything you may want or need in
order to create your own blends. Then there are also certain flavors that just ring summer time, and for
these we are required to shop for our ingredients.
My best advice in this case is to make sure that when you are selecting these ingredients that you always
look for organic. Shop from Farmer’s Markets and buy as local as possible. Naturally this will mean that
your supplies will be seasonal, so when you are making your purchases think ahead. There may be items
that you are not thinking about today that you want in a month when they are gone. Remember there is
a drying process so indulge yourself when you find those treasures.
Happy journey as you go to your magickal place and start your blending…..
Healing Powers of Mandala Coloring Pages
Reprint: http://mandalacoloringmeditation.com/mandala-coloring/mandala-articles/about-mandalacoloring-healing/
“I awaken to the power of the mandala,
A sacred circle of light and energy,
A pathway to center—to my center and to the universal All,
A channel for healing body, mind, and spirit”
What exactly is a Mandala?
Would you be surprised to learn that mandalas have existed since the beginning of time and that you
probably witness and experience their beauty every day? Simply stated, a mandala is a sacred circle.
The word mandala comes from the ancient Sanskrit language and loosely means “circle” or “center.” It’s a
simple geometric shape that has no beginning or end. Within its circular shape, the mandala has the power
to promote relaxation, balance the body’s energies, enhance your creativity, and support healing. The great
news is you can achieve all of these benefits while having fun with your mandala coloring pages.
Where Do Mandalas Come From?
Look around you and notice how abundantly the circular pattern of the mandala appears in your
environment. You can see this geometric shape in all aspects of life. The sun in the sky, the nucleus of the
cells in your body, and the pristine design of a snowflake all reflect the sacred roundness of the mandala. In
fact, according to the ancient science of Sacred Geometry, it is the pattern created by interlocking spheres
that forms the matrix of all universal matter.
When you consider the mandala’s ancient roots and its use in indigenous practices around the globe, you
begin to understand why it’s such a part of our planetary culture.
To the Tibetan monks, the sand mandala represents multi-dimensional fields of spiritual consciousness and
the state of enlightenment. To the Native Americans, the medicine wheel, a form of mandala, symbolizes
sacred ceremonial space and the circle of life. In both eastern and western cultures, the mandala has come
to symbolize harmony, unity, wholeness, and healing. In truth, the mandala is all of these representations
and even more.
How Do Mandala Coloring Pages Activate the Mandala’s Healing Powers?
Mandalas are used universally to promote healing and other positive states of being. Why? One explanation
comes from its very design. The mandala is a circular matrix with a center point—a point from which all
things are possible. From this sacred center comes forth infinite possibilities and unlimited potential. When
you use your mandala coloring pages, you’re expressing your desires for healing and wellness.
You’re also acknowledging and declaring your own unlimited potential!
You can think of the mandala as being energetically alive, a means of creating a pathway to a desired state
of being. What state of being do you desire to create? Maybe you want to experience inner peace or maybe
you simply want to use the circular pattern to express your artistry. For whatever purpose you choose to
work with the mandala, know that you can achieve it through mandala coloring..
Healing Powers of Mandala Coloring Pages (Cont.)
Imagine yourself with your mandala coloring pages in front of you. All you have to do is set your intention
and awaken your mandalas by infusing them with color. It’s that simple and that powerful
Amazing as it sounds, by simply coloring mandalas, you can accomplish the following:
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Relax & enhance your meditation
Balance your body, your mind, and your spirit
Make a spiritual connection
Expand your creativity
Increase your self-awareness
Encourage your self-expression
Just have fun, alone or with your friends
How Do You Unlock the Healing Power of the Mandala?
One of the easiest and most effective ways to experience the healing power of the mandala is by using
mandala coloring pages. Why are mandala coloring pages such an effective tool for healing? First of all,
coloring is fun and relaxing. It’s an enjoyable way to express your creativity. And, it’s an activity you can
fully participate in whether you’re 4 or 94 years old. Do you want more proof on why you too can easily
unlock the healing powers within the mandala coloring pages?
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There is no right or wrong way to color a mandala.
You can color just about anywhere.
Coloring lifts your spirits and brings out the child in you.
You can color at your own pace.
You don’t have to follow any rules when you color.
Kids and adults alike enjoy coloring.
You know you’re creating a unique work of art.
You can share the experience by coloring in groups.
It’s affordable.
It activates the intuitive genius within you.
Are you ready to tap into your healing pathways through mandala coloring pages?
When you use your mandala coloring pages, you’re expressing who you are and where you are on life’s
journey. You’re giving intangible thoughts and feelings both form and substance. Best of all, you’re
activating the healings powers of the sacred circle. Start experiencing the magical healing powers of
mandala coloring now, you can get your free mandala coloring pages right here:
www.mandalacoloringmeditation.com.
Just remember that mandala coloring is an easy and effective way to bring about transformational changes
in your life!
- See more at: http://mandalacoloringmeditation.com/mandala-coloring/mandala-articles/about-mandalacoloring-healing/#sthash.UghWVEG8.dpuf
Austin: The Austin Smashfest was a big success! We had a great time and the event raised over $2,000!
Austin's Pagan Night Out is at the Austin Java at 12th and Lamar at 7pm. Come enjoy good company,
coffee, food, drinks, and desserts!
Please join our CMA Austin Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/523531024350569/.
You can also reach the reps at [email protected].
San Antonio: San Antonio PNO’s are held at Candlelight Café on the 13th of every month. Since the
Candlelight is closed on Sundays and Mondays if the 13th falls on a Sunday it happens on the Saturday
the 12th instead; if on a Monday it happens on Tuesday the 14th. Several of our CMA Members are also
actively involved in the planning of this years San Antonio PPD. San Antonio held a quarter auction at
Beltane and raised over $300 towards the ice system.
Central Texas: CMA Central Texas area has a very active and generally very well attended Pagan Night
Out (PNO) on the 13th of every month from 7-9 pm at the Hardback Cafe within Hastings Bookstore. It is
located at 1500 Lowe's Blvd, Killeen.
Circle of the Midnight Rose is a teaching coven and opens to new students from Imbolc to Ostara every
year. Esbats are closed to coven members and students, but Sabbat rituals are open to the public. There
is a potluck feast following every Sabbat. For more information please email High Priestess Carolynn Zoll
at [email protected].
Ft Hood Open Circle holds open rituals for Esbats and Sabbats and offers classes on post to military and
civilians alike. Open Rituals are held on post at Ft Hood at Camp Finlayson. For more information contact
FHOC Designated Faith Leader Michele Morris at 254-368-8533 or [email protected].
CMA Central Texas will be represented at the CMA booth at the Austin PPD in September
Brazos Valley: No Repot
Outlands: No Report
Coastal Bend: No Report
South East Texas: No Report
North Texas: No Reports
NE Texas: No Report
If you don’t see a report from your area rep here let
them know.
10 Most Important Health Benefits of Yarncrafting
http://blog.lionbrand.com/2014/05/20/10-most-important-health-benefits-of-yarncrafting/
May 20th, 2014 by Kathryn Vercillo
Blogger and author Kathryn Vercillo is an expert in the area of using crafting to heal, having researched the
topic extensively for her book Crochet Saved My Life. This is part one in her 6-part series for us on the topic
of yarncraft health. Read her previous blog posts on the Lion Brand Notebook here.
Yarn heals. Whether you prefer needles or hooks or a combination of both, crafting can soothe your body
and mend your mind. Anecdotal evidence has shown this for decades and new research confirms it with
science. The benefits people report are seemingly endless. Here are the top 10 yarncrafting health benefits.
1. Knitting and Crochet Relieve Depression
Depression relief is by far the most reported and studied benefit of crochet and knitting. The repetition of
the crafts has been shown to release serotonin, a natural anti-depressant. CNN recently reported that “in
one study of more than 3,500 knitters, published in The British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 81% of
respondents with depression reported feeling happy after knitting. More than half reported feeling “very
happy.”
2. Crafting Reduces Anxiety
Yarncrafts helps with various forms of anxiety. It keeps your hands busy and mind focused so that you can
attend classes or events even when you have social anxiety. It brings the internal mind to a calmer space
for when you’re coping with the anxiety of repetitious thoughts. The counting has even been shown to
serve as a productive outlet for people with anxiety associated with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder as well
as eating disorders. The Craft Yarn Council reports on one study that showed nearly ¾ of women with
anorexia found knitting to be calming and anxiety-reducing.
3. Projects Build Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem has a variety of negative health impacts. Crafting helps build self-esteem by:
 Building new skills
 Allowing the crafter to feel productive
 Providing a useful way to give to others
 Creating beauty through self-expression
Simply visualizing, working on and then creating a product can make you feel better about yourself. This
has helped people with everything from coping with the fear of unemployment to gaining the strength to
leave abusive relationships.
4. Crafting May Reduce or Postpone Dementia
Several studies have shown that knitting and crochet can postpone age-related memory loss. The crafts can
also be soothing for those people who are already experiencing signs of dementia. Recently, researcher
Yonas Geda, MD, a neuropsychiatrist at the Mayo Clinic, completed a study that showed knitting is
neuroprotective and may reduce dementia by as much as 50%.
10 Most Important Health Benefits of Yarncrafting (cont.)
5. Knit or Crochet Through Insomnia
Insomnia is a terrible feeling. You are tired but you can’t sleep so then you’re frustrated that you can’t
sleep, which just makes it harder to sleep. Yarncrafts to the rescue! Focus on a soft, soothing, easy,
repetitive crochet or knit project and your body and mind can often wind down enough to get to bed.
Stitchlinks, a UK organization that does research into the benefits of knitting, reports that a study by
professor Herbert Benson of the Mind/Body Medical Institute found that 100% of insomnia patients
reported improved sleep with 90% being able to eliminate medication in a program that included knitting.
6. Relaxation Reduces Irritability and Restlessness
We recently shared how you can craft your way through cabin fever. Crochet and knitting can help you
through any times when you feel grumpy, restless, frustrated or bored. This positive outlet preserves your
relationships and keeps your mood balanced.
7. Crafting as Prayer
Prayer has been proven to have a diverse array of health benefits. Crochet and knitting can be used as part
of your prayer process. See our articles on Prayer Shawl Crafting and How to Create a Sacred Space for
Crafting.
8. Yarncrafting Builds Community
No matter what health issue you are dealing with, it helps to have a community of support around you.
There are so many ways that crochet and knitting provide community:
• Through local knit-ins and crochet-in-public meetups
• At fiber fairs and related events
• Informally through connections at yarn stores
• In the many online craft communities
• Through a sense of being tied to the generations before and after us
Check out our ideas for crafting with family and friends.
9. Crafting Helps with Grief Processing
Loss is a horrible thing and none of us escape it. During periods of deep grief it can seem impossible that
you’ll ever be able to function again. You get in your pajamas and stay in your bed and feel like the world
has come to an end. Crochet and knitting can be one of the most comforting things during this time. It’s
something that you can do without a lot of money or effort. It’s something you can do in small bits, when
you have the energy. It can, for a moment, take your mind off of your pain. The textures and colors of the
yarn, the warmth of the item that you’re creating and the beautiful up/down motion of stitch upon stitch
can get you one day closer to feeling okay again.
10 Most Important Health Benefits of Yarncrafting (cont.)
10. Stress-Busting Benefits of Yarncrafting
Stress is one of our leading health problems. Its effects range from migraines and fatigue to heart failure
and early memory loss. Reducing stress reduces disease. Using knitting or crochet as meditation can be a
daily way to minimize the effects of stress in your life.
What’s the number one way that knitting or crochet heals you? Send your thoughts to the editor at the
[email protected] .
Turn “travel time” into crafting time. Who doesn’t love traveling over the summer? The only
downside to taking a vacation can be tedious time spent waiting to get there on trains or planes.
Taking along a small project can soothe even the most frustrating travel situations, and turns idle
moments commuting into a brand new shawl or sock! Just be sure to check what tools you’re allowed
to take with you, especially if you are traveling internationally.
Ranch Manager:
Spirit Haven Ranch is a very busy place these days!
Projects in process include a Sacred Space Storage building (temp controlled) which is secure and will be
used for sacred space and altar materials from both public and private altars. The building is in place and
should be insulated and temp controlled by the end of the June 13 WorkEnd. Storage will be available for
personal altar items. CMA will furnish containers for you to place items, then close and place a seal on the
container while in storage. Access to the storage facility is through the Sacred Space Coordinator or through
a director. More information in the next issue.
Gray water is still a project on hold pending money and engineering studies.
The front gatehouse is having the road revamped for easier access when checking ion at festivals. The drive
through process was very successful at the last event, so improvements are being made to the gate house
area. The first improvement is to widen the road so egress is not blocked during check in, we are adding a
head-in parking area for those that need to stop at the gate house so others are not blocked from checking
in. This parking area is head in at an angle parking for 3-4 vehicles. When business is completed at the gate
house you will be able to drive forward to access the main road and enter the festival grounds (no backing
up). Other improvements are pending.
The Oil lease is still under negotiation and we hope to have a consensus very soon. The funds from the
bonus will allow us to complete several projects in process and pay off the mortgage earlier than expected.
Think positive energy that we will have the contract approved soon.
The tool room has been reorganized and developed into a shop area to maintain tools that have been
neglected on maintenance. Entry to this shop is restricted. No hand tools will be loaned from the shop to
individuals outside the tool room/shop area or project. Members that desire to be part of the maintenance
team please contact the Ranch Manager Gary Park at [email protected] for details.
Four permanent Quarter pillars are being designed and will be installed before Samhain. These pillars will
be located at the cardinal points for Fire, Air, Water and Earth. Each pillar will be in its primary color for that
quarter. Each pillar will be covered in mosaic tile with symbols inlaid form various traditions. More to come
as the project progresses.
We really need participation with WorkEnd dates. You may sleep in the Med Building as space allows (easily
10 people and air conditioned) and we are working toward other solutions (money dependent). Showers
are available at The Palace and White Wolf Hall at the current time. CMA also feeds you at WorkEnds!
We have a number of projects and not all include chainsaw and brush clearing. We have sign making,
stepping stones for marking paths and a new project coming called Hypertufa. There is usually painting to
be done and several craft projects in the works. There are building and construction projects anyone can do.
We work in the morning outside and when it gets hot either switch to inside work or have a great siesta and
Ranch Manager (Cont.):
and complete a few more hours in the early evening when cooler. Join us on Facebook at Spirit Haven
Ranch Team for schedules and updates!
You can find our page on Facebook by searching Spirit Haven Ranch Team https://www.facebook.com/
groups/LandCrew/ or by contacting our Ranch Manager [email protected].
Registration: Registration is now open for Samhain.
Bridge Troll report:
With the help of our FABULOUS membership, the Bridge Trolls raised just over $1,000
during Beltane 2014! As always, your generosity will help support our beloved Spirit
Haven, and we can't thank you enough!
For now, we're hibernating in the shade under the bridge, but we'll be back at
Samhain. We'll also be bringing back the Personalized Troll Tags, so keep an eye out
for details as we get closer to festival. HUZZZZAAAAAHH!!!!!
Megan
~ Bridge Troll Matron of Dishonor
Safety Services: No Report
CMA 1: No Report
Front Gate: No Report
The people would come together and listen to the stories of their beginnings. Listen now to the words of
the keeper of our story. The story of CMA...
Ah, here we are again, my companions. Gather around and warm yourselves with the fire burning in
each others’ spirits. We are tied to each other from this now back to the beginnings. Do you feel these
elders, hear their words, share their vision?
We were small - trying to find our way - endeavoring to speak with a common voice. We had goals to be
sure - to be an alliance to serve as a means of communication between the different traditions of magical
practice, with intent to create a space that was both physical and spiritual where knowledge and
traditions could be shared. Also were the underlying inherent truths of what we were and how we
conducted ourselves as the Council of Mystical Arts. There were only seven back then.
Less than five cycles later our numbers had increased, both in individuals seeking like-minded hearts and
spirits, as well as circles that sought to be part of a greater whole. Gatherings moved from individual
homes and property to natural areas and parks. We became Magickal rather than mystical and the
vision held by the Founders grew in clarity and scope...
We talk through the circle
and the Circle speaks through us,
Mary Wolf
Archivist
CMA's Temple of the Dancers—Coordinator: Meredith— This past Beltane, the Temple of the Dancers
raised funds for Ashlyn "Smash" Spencer and her family, long time community members and supporters of
CMA and the wider Pagan community. Smash has been undergoing some heavy medical "stuff lately and
funds raised went towards helping cover costs, and energy raised was sent spinning out for her to use as
she needs and sees fit!
The Temple of the Dancers is a tradition at CMA. We welcome dancers of all abilities and skill levels and
styles, as well as dance community supporters (Including musicians! Hint, hint!). Every festival, the Hafla
held during Saturday dinner-hour raises funds for a cause near and dear to our hearts (typically the land
fund but this past festival, the wonderful Smash and her family). We always are excited to welcome new
dancers (and returning ones!). If you are interested in performing, keep your eyes peeled on the main
CMA list on Facebook or join the Temple of the Dancers Facebook page. Updates on sign ups go out about
a month and a half before each festival.
Every festival, we hold a society meeting to discuss future plans, desires for the society, and possibilities
such as a dancer swap meet or fun themes for the next Hafla. Please come out and join us! We're also
open to all ages and genders."
Contact me at [email protected] for any questions or if you have trouble finding the FB
pages to join in the discussions!
Arachne Society— Coordinator: Melissa—The Arachne Society is welcome to anyone and everyone who
performs or wants to explore performing web-weaving magicks! We are knitters, crocheters, spinners,
weavers, tatters, lace makers, Viking knitters, seamstresses... Any form of fiber craft is welcome. Anyone of
any gender, identity, age, spiritual path or skill level is welcome. We hold a society meeting every festival
and society members are encouraged to attend or host and facilitate a "Stitch & Bitch" sort of event between
festivals.
We bring the sacred web of Arachne to life at CMA by weaving our magick together.
Melissa Honeybee
Brewers & Imbibers—No Report
Friends of Grandmother’s Grove—No Report
The Fig and Pomegranate Society— No Report
Contact [email protected] for any questions or if you have trouble finding the FB pages to
join in the discussions!
I know there are other societies and guilds out there. If you want your group to have coverage in the
Accord please email me at [email protected]. Thanks Pamela DragonFlame
Knitting as Healing Therapy
Mary Desaulniers
Reprint from
https://suite.io/mary-desaulniers/47082dj
How is knitting a form of healing therapy? Its repetitive movement takes knitters into a physically and
spiritually healing "zone."
When 44-year-old Nessie Dean suffered a devastating stroke five years ago, she thought her life was over.
She could barely move, so to help her cope with despair and helplessness, her sister recommended that
she take up knitting.
At the beginning, this proved to be quite a challenge. Nessie had trouble moving her hands, let alone
picking up the needles. But she persevered and miraculously, the hobby opened a new portal into her life.
Now a proud owner of "Nessie's Yarn & Crafts," in Beaminster, UK, Nessie is selling yarn and craft goods as
well as teaching yarn and needle classes to children and adults.
"Knitting gave me my life back," she claims.
Betsan Corkhill has seen so many patients who stitched their way to better health that she started her
website StitchLinks.com to provide not only anecdotal evidence of the spiritual and healing power of
knitting but to put in place as well research studies that test the claims of these narratives.
According to Corkhill, knitting is an excellent self-management tool that can help patients deal with
physical and emotional issues. She is struck by the way women have transformed their lives simply by
engaging in a needle and yarn craft.
What makes knitting a healing therapy?
The Repetitive Movement of Knitting Induces Mindfulness
The repetitive movement of yarn and needles induces a state of mindfulness long recognized by
meditation adepts as a form of healing therapy. During mindfulness, our focus is brought to the rhythm of
the present moment, releasing us from the stress, worries and pain of daily life.
In his research, Dr. Herbert Benson has shown that the relaxation response evoked during mindfulness
lowers blood pressure, improves sleep and helps patients manage their stress levels, some to the point of
doing without medication.
Studies also suggest that the repetitive movement in activities like stitching and running enhance the
release of serotonin, a natural analgesic and mood enhancer. According to John J. Ratey M.D., chronic
depression shrinks brain cells, but repetitive movement like running unleashes neurochemicals and growth
factors in the brain that reverse this process.
Knitting as Healing Therapy (Conti)
It is the repetitive movement in working with knits that takes knitters into the "zone," where participating
in ritualistic and creative work can do wonders to restore a sense of wholeness and stability.
Corkhill insists that working with needles and yarn is not a momentary escape from pain. It is a healing
therapy whose benefits are profound and permanent. Long term knitters and stitchers experience changing
attitudes that literally transform their sense of self and integrity, leading to a change in their lives.
Back and Forth Eye Movement Alleviates Traumatic Thoughts
In 2002, Dr. Emily Holmes at University College in London, UK, found that trauma victims can process
traumatic thoughts more effectively if they perform a visual-spatial task during episodes of anxiety caused
by memories of traumatic events.
Some psychologists claim that engaging a victim's attention with an external repetitive stimulus can lessen
the effect of traumatic memories and flashbacks. For example, a patient in talk therapy seems more able to
contain painful memories if he follows the finger of a therapist moving back and forth before his eyes.
The theory is that the eye movements reactivate parts of the brain that have been suppressed as a coping
mechanism. This reactivation helps the patient reorganize the traumatic events allowing a more effective
processing of painful memories to be made.
Known as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing or EMDR, this process has been helpful
especially for patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Knitting engages the same back and forth eye movement which may explain why it produces such a
calming effect on knitters and why it is such a powerful form of healing therapy.
Knitting Teaches the Skill of Letting Go
According to blogger Cantor Neff, knitting helps us learn when to give up and when to let go. She
appreciates the Native American practice of deliberately crafting an error into a piece of work because, this
gap, this hole becomes a "place for the spirit to move in and out of the art."
Neff claims that this idea of letting small mistakes go so they become part of the design is "an important
lesson in the art of life." Why? By letting go, we open the way to love ourselves for who we are —
imperfections and all — a vision that only the act of knitting can engender.
Knitting Creates a Sense of Community
The growth of yarn and needles circles all over the world attests to the power of community implicit in this
craft. In their book, Knitting into the Mystery: A Guide to the Shawl-Knitting Ministry (Morehouse
Publishing, 2003), Susan S. Jorgenson and Susan S. Izard explore the way knitting ministries have given
women a powerful expression of communal bonding by bringing women together to stitch and pray for
Knitting as Healing Therapy (Conti)
those in need.
Using a 3 stitch pattern that is implicitly meditative in its rhythm, the
women explore the relationship between knitting and the trinity, the
union of body, mind and spirit and the cycle of past,present and future.
The women make knits for friends who may be ill or going through
difficult times, invoking prayers and blessings as they proceed with their
shawls. Their knits access the power of prayer and knitting becomes a
means of healing therapy.
Why take up knitting?
It is portable ( we can carry it anywhere); it is economical ( does not cost an arm and a leg) and it is fast
becoming a popular form of healing therapy.
Sources:


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Corkhill, Betsan. "Therapeutic Knitting." Knit on the Net.com. Features: issue 4. Accessed September
16, 2010.
Gerryts, Rene. "West Dorset: How Knitting Helped Stoke Victim Rebuild Life." BridportNews.Co.Uk. May
5 2010. Accessed September 18, 2010.
Neff, Cantor. "Knitting as a Spiritual Practice." Cantor's Canvas: Pray,Sing Knit.March 17, 2010.Accessed
September 17, 2010.
Ratey, John J. with Eric Hagerman. Spark: the Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain.
Litte, Brown and Company, 2008.
Lothlorien Woods — Coordinator: Kenneth - Lothlorien Wood is a sacred space full of spirits and fae. The
Altar in Lothlorien Wood is an open altar; all that wish to reside on it may. Currently the deities that are
known to rest on the altar are Lilith, Oshun, and Shango. The altar has two chalices and two offering
bowls. The larger chalice is dedicated to Lilith and the smaller chalice is for Oshun. Shango takes his
offerings in the bowl on the pedestal . Liquors both sweet and bold make great offerings as do apples,
strawberries, cherries, and bananas There is a wooden bowl of hematite beads on the altar that is an
offering from Lothlorien to you. The denizens of Lothlorien Wood appreciate the massive influx of people
that visited it this past Beltane and look forward to visits at Samhain 2014
Labyrinth — Coordinators: Alex, Richard & Alan— First some very good news, Alan MoonDragon has been
elevated to Master Labyrinth Keeper. He joins the Council of Masters after an extensive Apprenticeship and
Journeyman program. Alan designed and built the bridge leading to the entrance of the Labyrinth for his
Master’s project, allowing us all to bypass the muddy and sometimes watery low spot that occurs after
heavy rains. He now will work closely with the other two Masters to keep the Labyrinth beautiful for
festivals and, also, to plan and implement upgrades. If you see him, be sure to congratulate him!
If you attended Beltane, you know that the Labyrinth was shut down from Friday afternoon on. We
apologize. There was a large swarm of bees near the entrance and we were concerned that someone would
be badly hurt, so we decided to be “better safe, than sorry.” Happily, we have since discovered that it was a
migrating swarm and not one that had taken up residence nearby. The Labyrinth WILL be open for Samhain
and we will be lighting it on Friday night, so please come by and see it and take time to play in the
Labyrinth. Don’t forget to bring a bit of sweet for the Fae.
By the Lady’s Light and on the Wings of the Night,
Alexandria
Bridhid’s Temple Complex — Coordinator: Carly — Brighid's Temple Complex had a great festival. For
Friday Night Lights we lit up Brighid's Crossing with colored LED lights and had a spotlight on the standing
stone. There was also a sacred flame burning in the Temple grounds for the entire festival.
We plan to make some improvements on the flame for Samhain and continue to have a Brighid focused
ritual in the Temple at each festival.
If anyone is interested in becoming part of the stewardship team for Brighid's Temple Complex, please
email me at [email protected].
Carly McNamara
Coordinator, Brighid's Temple Complex
Grandmother’s Grove — Coordinator: Bran & Laura—Grandmother's Grove has flourished under the care
of the Spirit Haven Ranch team, and while there is still work to be done clearing deadfall left from the
recent drought, she continues to smile upon Spirit Haven Ranch.
Laura
Council Oak — Coordinators: Melissa & Jason—Our blessed Council Oak looked absolutely beautiful during
the Beltane 2014 festival. She was lit up with solar lamps, there was a temporary sign and members were
encouraged to write blessings on provided slips of paper and insert them into the cracks on the altar top of
her stump. We also placed a bowl of stones for blessings to be placed on the altar top of her stump as well.
We are looking into installing a permanent sign. The grounds are being well-maintained thanks to Gary and
Chopper and workend stewards. The Young Oak is growing very well and seems to be strong. Many thanks
for the construction and addition of the wooden footbridge, which is absolutely wonderful! Big thanks also
to Uncle Boom Boom (Joe Rose) for the Addition of the stunning Fire Fountain during Friday Night Lights at
Festival.
Melissa Honeybee & Moonfish Carver
Council Oak Sacred Space Coordinators
Volk Ve: - Coordinator: Chopper—No Report
Handfasting Grove — Coordinators: Colleen & Sticker Bill—No Report
Meditation Meadow — Coordinator: Goo—No Report
Sacred Fire — Coordinator: Fireman Bill - No Report
Spirit Fire — Coordinator: ? - No Report
Herne’s Hollow—Coordinator: Maeven Eller-Five—No Report
Dragon’s Nest: ?- No Report
Coming Soon:
Ganesha Temple — Coordinator: Melissa—Temple Ganesh is currently in the planning and building stages
but should be up and functional by Samhain 2014. Located in the Meditation Woods on the path to
Grandmother's Grove, Temple Ganesh will be the first Hindu Sacred Space at Spirithaven. Dedicated to the
elephant-headed Remover of obstacles, the Temple will celebrate Ganesha, the ruler of the Muladhara
Chakra. The Temple will be a brightly coloured sacred realm in dappled sunlight within a beautiful ring of
trees. Anyone can offer puja (worship) to Ganesh with devotions, offerings, praise, chanting or song.
Whether you're there to break a coconut, offer sweetly scented flowers or incense, ring a bell, chant or just
meditate, Temple Ganesh will offer you a comfortable, warm place to worship the God of all Wisdom.
Jai Ganesha!
Namaste,
Melissa Honeybee
Medicine Wheel — Coordinator: ? No Report
HEALING AND MODERN MEDICINE
By: Johnny the Naked Mower Guy
I am very thankful that I was asked to write an article on healing for the Accord. This last
year has educated me with my first ever hospital stays, emergency room visit, and medical
expenses (to insurance, thank the Goddess) greater than my lifetime earnings. Here are
some of the things I have learned.
Modern medicine is truly amazing in what it can accomplish. After a lifetime of poor eating
habits, I had chest pains (angina). My doctor sent me to a heart specialist. He had me do a
stress test (failed), attempted to put in stents (failed), then sawed my sternum in half (with
a reciprocating saw no less), sewed three veins on my heart to bypass three blocked
arteries, and glued me back together. I walked out of the hospital four days later. Six
months later, I still had angina and had to go to the ER. Seems all three bypasses aren't
doing what they are supposed to. So they gave me an emergency use medicine (nitro
tablets) and sent me home. Another type of stress test, another attempt at stents (failed
again) and finally some meds that work well.
Nine months after starting with the specialist, I have started getting advice on losing weight
and physical therapy. The heart specialist's advice on diet is diametrically opposed to the
physical therapy folks advice, but hey, at least the conversation is started. And I have lost
10 pounds. I complained to both the heart specialist and a nurse associated with my
Insurance about what I consider their approach to be totally backwards, and both told me
that if medicine and diet are all they can do, that is really bad I'm kind of screwed. Surgery
is their first response. The fact that I can survive their surgery is truly amazing. Folks, this is
medicine. It is not healing.
The word 'healing' comes from the same root as an ancient word for 'becoming whole'. To
the ancient world, if you were sick, you had lost a portion of your soul. You were not in
balance with the world around you. In our modern American world, our diets are usually in
complete balance with corporate marketing, but not necessarily with what our bodies
need. If we wish to attempt to disregard corporate marketing, there are a multitude of
other corporations marketing 'healthier' stuff. There is so much contradictory advice, so
well marketed, that the mind quickly goes numb. It would be funny if my life didn't depend
on finding a workable solution. I am not a corporation. I promise not to add to the
confusion. Well, not if you can learn to trust yourself.
HEALING AND MODERN MEDICINE (Conti.)
To the ancient shamanic healers, if you were out of balance, they would perform a 'soul
retrieval' to help you restore what you had lost. You can learn to do this yourself, as a selfguided meditation. You can journey to your 'inner physician' - a representation of your
body's wisdom about what it needs, and ask him/her what your best food intake should be
in any given situation (what you have in the fridge, what restaurant you are at, when you go
to the grocery store, etc.) Establishing an open and effective communication with this inner
physician does not require hours of Zen meditation sitting cross legged on a mountain. It is
only as difficult as you believe it to be. Think how often you hear critical voices in your head,
it's that easy. Just substitute those voices with your inner body wisdom, and your resource is
as close as your willingness to listen. This is where my path is leading me now. If it sounds
reasonable to you, you might try it too.
Good luck and Goddess Bless.
Members in need
Two of our members are currently facing serious medical hardships and challenges and have come to our
community asking for support.
Young Ashlynn (aka "Smash") of 3 Camp 3 has been recently diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis, a rare
inflammatory disease causing injury to the spinal cord. After a rather harrowing extended stay in the
hospital, she's returned home greatly improved, but she and her family continue to face mounting medical
bills and the continuing cost of multiple in-home and outpatient treatments. Her family has created a
GoFundMe site for those who are willing and able to help. http://www.gofundme.com/8cv6no
If you'd like to lend a little moral support, you can also visit the Hugs for Smash Facebook group (open
group). There was also a song written for Smash and can be downloaded here
http://bekahkelso.bandcamp.com/track/phoenix-a-song-for-smash
Our Ranch Foreman, Chopper Whitewolf, is also in need of aid from the CMA community. Chopper is
disabled and has recently had to start working with a new set of doctors across a wide range of
specialties. The financial challenges he is facing right now are steep, especially since his disabilities
currently have him living on a fixed income. However, the prescribed treatments show promise and may
actually enable Chopper to return to work in the future. For years, Chopper has worked tirelessly for CMA,
and now he has come to us for help. His friends have created the Helping Hands for Chopper Give Forward
site for those who are willing and able to help.
https://www.giveforward.com/fundraiser/l4b4/helping-hands-for-chopper?
Self Healing Benefits of Meditation
By Pamela DragonFlame
When doing my research on different healing modalities I found several articles on Meditation. Research
has found that meditation actually increases the brain's gray matter in regions associated with sensitivity to
the body's signals. When you meditate regularly, your brain is actually more in tune with your body. So
What Does It Mean To Meditate? Dictionary.com defines meditation as “continued or extended thought;
reflection; contemplation,” another definition I found listed was from Harvard professor Dr. Herbert
Benson. He defines it as “Repetition of a word, sound, phrase, prayer, or muscular activity while passively
disregarding everyday thoughts that inevitably come to mind and returning to your repetition.” With this
definition of meditation, anything can be a meditation – not just sitting with your eyes closed in the lotus
position, but walking, making art, cooking, shopping, dancing, driving… whatever. This definition is one that
I really like.
So going with the definition of Dr. Herbert we realize that meditation is about establishing a different
relationship with your thoughts, just for a little while. Instead of allowing your thoughts to wander, in
meditation, you watch your thoughts from a different, more stabilized perspective. You're training yourself
to place your attention where and when you want. Our bodies are already equipped with natural self-repair
mechanisms that can be flipped on and off with our thoughts, beliefs and feelings that originate in the mind.
Which means that you can heal yourself. In the case of self-healing this can be very powerful and has been
shown in the last few years to have profound results for physical and mental health.
Meditation has been scientifically shown to have positive results on activating the relaxation response, and
as a result, almost every health condition improves. Research has demonstrated that meditation has been
effective in treating angina pectoris, cardiac arrhythmias, allergic skin reactions, anxiety, mild to moderate
depression, bronchial asthma, herpes simplex, cough, constipation, diabetes mellitus, duodenal ulcers,
dizziness, fatigue, hypertension, infertility, insomnia, nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, nervousness,
postoperative swelling, premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, side effects of cancer, side effects of
AIDS, and all forms of pain – backaches, headaches, abdominal pain, muscle pain, joint aches, postoperative
pain, neck, arm, and leg pain. It has also been shown to decrease stress-related cortisol, reduce respiration
and heart rate, reduce the metabolic rate, increase blood flow in the brain, increase activity in the left
prefrontal cortex (which is observed in happier people), strengthen the immune system, reduces work
stress, anxiety, and depression, promotes cardiovascular health, improves cognitive function, reduces
alcohol abuse, improves longevity, promotes healthy weight, improves immune function, and heightens
quality of life. and lead to a state of relaxation.
As you can see the possibilities of healing yourself with meditation are limitless. I will leave you with a
quote that fits here perfectly.
“In meditation, healing can happen. When the mind is calm, alert and totally contented, then it is like a laser
beam – it is very powerful and healing can happen.” - Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
Sources:
http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART02791/self-healing-meditation.html
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2010/12/25/can-meditation-cure-disease.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8rRzTtP7Tc
http://lissarankin.com/meditation-as-a-self-healing-tool
Tuatha Dea
Review By: Laura
Across Magickal Meadow rang a beautiful sound. Angels with Drums. Sound Check.
Wow, I thought, if their sound check sounds like that, there’s no way I’m missing this concert!
By the time I arrived, a crowd had already gathered, and there were a few people dancing in front of the
stage. The inviting rhythms, complex harmonies, and crystal clear vocals had nearly every listener entranced.
Their website describes the band’s music as “…pure primal energy with a Celtic twist,” but they are so much
more than that.
The band’s music ran the gamut from meditative to energetic, original creations, and threw in some wellknown songs spanning at least three centuries-- among the likes of which were Traditional Irish tunes, as well
as The Cranberries’ Zombie, and many more. As if this variety wasn't enough for someone to enjoy the show,
Tuatha Dea ended with an epic medley that included a little something for everyone.
Closing their show, Tuatha Dea brought the crowd to center stage and sent festival-goers off with a bang. To
say they were impressive is an understatement. They are absolutely remarkable, and their audience
charmed.
Have you read…?
Book Review by Valna Asterman
Hi Y'all
I hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful season.
Today I'd like to share with you a wonderful resource book: "The Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia of
Alternative Healing Therapies." It was edited by C. Norman Shealy M.D. Ph.D. and contains a wealth of
information and antidotal cultural references on the different types and styles of healing. It also is filled with
pictures, drawings and diagrams of the healing techniques .
The book is divided into 4 parts. Part One is the listing of Energy Therapies, Part Two is Physical Therapies,
Part Three is Mind and Spirit Therapies and Part Four is a listing of Common Ailments. The listings are well
presented and includes both Oriental and Occidental traditions of medicine. There is also a Glossary, listings
of useful addresses and suggestions for further reading. This is a great book if you are interested in finding
and using Alternative Healings.
Until next time, I wish you a blessed Summer Solstice.
Hugs
Valna A.
Phoenix- Smash’s story
By The Spencer's
There I was rehearsing for my Hip-hop recital Monday night, who knew then the challenges I would face in
the next 24 hours to today...
My daddy picked me up from Dance and we were grabbing something to eat. My Momma was out of town
for work, so I was looking forward to our daddy daughter date. Then, my back began to hurt. I told my dad
about it and we got our dinner to go and came home. I went to bed on that Monday night, just like every
other Monday before. I woke Tuesday with an incredible amount of pain in my back and chest. I told my
Dad and he made us a Doctor appointment for later that morning. This was great news considering I wanted
to go back to sleep. He woke me up, what seemed like minutes later, to get ready and left my room. I got up
and began to get dressed- then, I fell. I could not move my arms or legs! What was happening?! I am in the
middle of dressing and I CAN'T move!!! "Dadddddddy"! I cry out. He came into my room and asks what I am
doing on the floor. I tell him "I can't move! I'm not kidding, I can't move"! I see the panic swarm his face. He
lifts me up and gets me ready and loads me into the truck and we rush to the Doctor. Once there, she sends
us to The Texas Children's hospital because she can't do anything for me. What?! I'm going to the hospital?!
My Daddy calls my Mom and tells her what is going on, I can hear her ask all kinds of questions that he can't
answer. No, really Mom, something is wrong, I think. We rushed into the ER where we began to answer a
series of questions- did I fall- no. did I ever have symptoms before- no. ALL NOs! What is wrong?!
-I am training a new employee at my out of town location when I get a call from my husband trying to
desperately explain that our daughter can't move. I can not understand what he is saying, although I
completely hear every word he is speaking. He is about to see the ER doctors and will let me know what
they have to say. I began to wrap up my training and prepare for an early departure. I am completely
confused and frazzled. My husband calls me back to explain that they do not know what is wrong with our
daughter and that I need to get back to Houston. I leave, head to my parents, grab my luggage and proceed
to drive for the longest 4 hours of my life. As soon as I get to the hospital and park, I lose it! All my pinned
up emotions hit me at once and I am a balling mess of tragedy sitting in my truck. I gain my composure and
head inside. My daughter is getting a MRI, so I sit alone in a room inside the ER waiting for them. After what
seemed like eternity, they come in with the doctors and they are telling us they need to do a spinal tap on
our daughter... things just got real.
A spinal tap?! What is that? I ask my Momma to explain what that is and she tells me. "Is it going to hurt"?
She tells me "yes, but we are right here with you". The doctors come in and are speaking in a different
language; I am sure because I can't understand a thing they are saying. Then, I am asked "If you can choose
any movie to distract you now, what would that be"? Distract me?! I don't even understand why I can't
move... "Cry baby" I answer, the music will distract me.
-So, there is my kid, asking for Cry baby the movie. The Doctors have not seen the flick and all I am thinking
about how age inappropriate it is, she loves musicals and has seen it many times before. They begin to get
her prepped and put on Cry Baby for her. She is nice and drugged and making funny sounds and squinting
up her nose and smiling at us. All the while I am trying to distract her while they hold my kid down to begin
the tap...
We are told that they think she has Transverse Myelitis. Could this get more real?
Phoenix- Smash’s story (Conti)
Then is when we began our gypsy like stay at the hospital on level 7, and things are looking up. I think it has
been a few days, but I have lost touch with all reality. She is doing better and we are still thinking we will be
released any day now. We haven’t posted anything online yet and have only told our close friends and
family what is going on when our daughter takes a turn for the worst. She begins plasma exchanges and has
an allergic reaction. Her lung has collapsed and she has phenomena. They rush us to ICU and because she is
fighting to breath, they will have to intubate her. They begin the process and our daughter's breathing
crashes and they are fighting to keep her stable...we are in the room like bystanders watching all of this
unfold. It was the first time since we have been there that I became scared and thought "we are going to
lose her too".
Immediately, we put the call out to FB land for healing strength and courage for us and our daughter and
what we got back was something we never expected. A surge of calm hit our room and it felt like a
thousand hands were touching our shoulders. She beamed with light and her breathing began to stabilize.
Vigils were launched far and wide in her honor and I stayed up all night at her bedside praying, begging,
bartering with everything I had. "PLEASE don't take my daughter too"! I cried out. I watched every breath
the machine pumped for her that night. I watched every twitch, every flinch, every tick on the clock that
night. All the while, fires across the land were lit in her honor, rituals held in her honor, the land decorated
with pretty pink ribbons in her honor, revel drumming in her honor. A call for aid was answered across the
world and I am not exaggerating. She began to heal. She began to FIGHT! She finally opened her eyes and,
unable to talk, signed * I love you*. That sign was the single most precious gift I have ever received from
her, other than having her for my daughter. Over the weeks, her Facebook page, Hugs for Smash, was
created and then a go fund me account. Concert benefits began to be planned, people donating their
talent, their time, their crafts to raise money for her stay. Items began arriving at the hospital within hours
of the announcement... energy, flowers, care packages, teddy bears, stones, candles, cards, balloons, crafts,
stuffed animals, food, jewelry, leis, clothes, and she even had a song written in her honor called "Phoenix- a
song for Smash".
We were moved several times into several rooms on different levels and each time her strength grew, her
motivation was unwavering, her spirit was strong, her determination was inspiring! On every floor, Doctors,
nurses and staff fell in love with her passion. She never complained, she never lost sight of her goals, she
was exactly the brave child we have raised to be. Every day during her recovery, there was something being
delivered or friends and family visiting. Our friends took care of our house, pets, and chores. She was
surrounded with her tribe of Framily daily. She was constantly encouraged, supported, and prayed for.
Her story is inspirational to many. We still have people we don't know contact us to tell us how much they
have fallen in love with our daughter. Hundreds are donating money, hundreds are following our daughter's
journey, hundreds have come to our aid in the most desperate time of her life and we feel every thought
given.
It's amazing to sit back now as she walks across the stage and graduates 5th grade and remember the day,
the moment, this exact time when she was almost taken away from us and was told she may never regain
her ability to walk again. The love and energy and honor you all have shown my family was felt! It was seen;
it healed!
Phoenix- Smash’s story (Conti)
That journey began on April 8th, 2014. She was finally released May 9th. It was the hardest 5 weeks of our
lives there. There are not words to describe the energy and calm that surrounded our room then and that
surrounds our daughter now. The staff had made several comments about the "feelings" they had walking
in. They were in awe of her and her fighting spirit. They couldn't believe how fast she was recovering! She
still has a long road to full recovery ahead of her, however we have made the most out of what was
presented to us. NONE of that could have been, had it not been for the love, faith and healing mojo that
was sent our way to the girl we all fall in love with, Our Smash.
Thank you for following our journey. Thank you for all your help, mojo and healing energy. Thank you all
for taking the time to read about our story. If you should ever doubt the healing that can come from
prayer, may you be enlightened by her spirit and her rise from the ashes.
Her journey, passion, humor and love of life is best summed up by an expression she told me the other
night- "When life give you lemons, make orange juice and keep them wondering how you did it"!
-The Spencer's xo
Reiki Healing
Anonymous
Each of us posses an internal power which can restore vital health and promote well-being. This wonderful
gift is known as Reiki, this is a talent that we can all tap into. Reiki is a healing practice that was founded
by Mikao Usui in the 1900’s. Durning his lifetime Mikao taught over 2000 people this healing modality one
of those people was a retired naval officer Chujiro Hayashi who proceeded to heal and teach Hawayo Takata from
Hawaii. This is how Reiki healing made it to America. Reiki is a very simple hands-on healing art, it helps to restore
harmony and vitality in the body and promotes emotional, physical and spiritual well-being. The best thing about Reiki
is that you can use it to heal yourself and others. You see, "Rei" basically means "Universal" And "Ki" basically
means "Life Force" So the study of Reiki is actually a study of "Universal Life Force"
Reiki attunement's are considered to be the core of the teachings. In the process of learning Reiki, the body system
has to be aligned so that a new pathway for energies to flow is created. Once you have your Reiki attunement, the
Reiki stays with you and does not wear off. One of the greatest gifts we receive from Reiki is the ability to effectively
heal ourselves and align ourselves with pure energy, this is powerful because we can draw the Reiki energy from our
surroundings, we are merely the channels for the energy. Healing ourselves is just the beginning. Once you become
comfortable with the process of healing yourself you start to gain confidence and there is a natural transition to healing
others. The greatest thing about Reiki is that while a full treatment may take an hour if time is a constraint 15 minutes
will still help. This means if you're having a very stressful day or have a headache if you can take a 15 minute break
away from whatever you're doing you can use Reiki to heal yourself.
There are several different hand positions and symbols that are used to facilitate the flow of the Reiki energy to the
area or person in need of healing. There are several excellent Reiki Masters available at our beloved CMA who would
be willing to give you your Reiki attunement and help you learn this modality. In the meantime you can start by
learning and living the Five Principles of Reiki.
By integrating them into your life you'll discover that you'll develop into a person with a more positive outlook which will
pave the way for a more meaningful change in you.
Testimonials
The first experience that I had with Reiki was years ago because of severe back pain. I remember when my
lower back pain got so bad, that I could not work anymore. I was desperate., we were living on my wife's
income alone and that was NOT enough. Add to that the fact that she was getting scared with the various
pain-killers I was taking.
Then, a friend told me to meet with his "healer". And I rolled my eyes thinking, "Oh boy, here we go again.
Another dead-end I'll have to pay for with money I don't have. You see I'd already met with various
doctors, acupuncturists, chiropractors and I was at my wits end because NOTHING was working. But my
wife, bless her soul, gave me that "look" (those of you who have a wife know the “look”) so I said, "Ok! OK!
I'll go! I'll go!"
When I got there, it was just an old man and table to lie down on. No instruments, not medical posters
anywhere on the walls. My friend told me this man was in town for just a short while. He motioned for me
to lie down and after I did, a few minutes passed where I REALLY felt I was wasting my time. Then...
...something happened.
I felt this warmth right where my back pain was. Then, it turned into a dull heat. Then, I felt a vibration. It
was the oddest thing. Then, ALL my tension, anxiety, and stress just left my body and mind like sheets of
metal falling off me. And I felt something "different" where my back pain was. When I got up, I felt relief.
The pain was gone. Totally gone. That was my first experience with the wonders of Reiki since then I used
it for other reasons. I am grateful for my friend and my wife who made me go way back then.
~OC~
The Amazing Healing Power of Mindfulness
Anonymous
...Did you know that our GENES can be altered by our thoughts and our state of mind? We are all aware that
altering genes is obviously possible, but I thought it took years for this to happen. What I found amazing was
that there is scientific evidence that just spending EIGHT HOURS focusing your attention and awareness on
the present can lead to dramatic positive changes to your genetic makeup.
So what does this mean for YOU?? It means that by learning how to focus your attention through mindful
meditation, you have the POWER to increase your HEALTH and PROSPERITY, by directly affecting the genes
which control inflammation and allow for new growth to take place. Your genetic makeup is NOT set in
stone, YOU have the ability to shape it with your mind. Interested?
I want to let you know about the ground-breaking study which has allowed us to finally see PHYSICAL
EVIDENCE of the amazing power of mindfulness. Inherited from Buddhist tradition, the practice of
mindfulness is about focusing your attention and awareness on the PRESENT.
Mindful meditation involves AWAKENING your MIND to everything you are experiencing in a given moment,
and observing your thoughts and feelings from a distance, without judging them as being good or bad.
Although the practice of meditation has long been known to have positive health effects, a recent study by
researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona
(published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology) has given the first evidence of how mindful meditation
can LITERALLY alter gene expression.
In fact, these results were observed after just a SINGLE 8-hour period of intensive mindfulness practice in a
group of experienced meditators, compared to a group of untrained control subjects who spent the same 8
hours engaged in quiet non-meditative activities. At the end of these eight hours, the meditators showed
some significant GENETIC and MOLECULAR differences, including reduced levels of pro-inflammatory genes
and altered levels of HDACs (enzymes which regulate DNA expression). There was no difference between the
two groups of people in these genes at the beginning of the study.
Not ONLY did the meditation group experience these positive genetic changes, they also physically recovered
faster from a stressful situation they had to partake in at the end of the study, involving giving an impromptu
speech and performing mentally challenging tasks in front of an audience. This faster physical recovery time
was DIRECTLY associated with the changes in their genome.
As several other DNA-modifying genes showed no differences between the meditation and non-meditation
groups, this study suggests that mindfulness practice SPECIFICALLY affects the regulation of HDACs and
inflammatory pathways. This is interesting as these very genes are actually the SAME genes which
anti-inflammatory and pain-killing drugs are currently targeting. Which means that mindful meditation can
be just as (if not more) effective as a method for treating pain and inflammation.
Although this study did not show any long-term genetic effects of mindful meditation training, it did indicate
the impact that just a SINGLE DAY can have on your wellbeing. Not only can our genes be altered by our
external environment, they can also be altered by our INTERNAL environment, including our conscious and
subconscious thoughts, and calmness of mind. A definite alternative to today’s drugs.
You Can Heal Yourself
By Pamela DragonFlame
The final article for this issue of the Accord is thoughts that have originated through all of the research that I
did and from reading articles from others. The one thing that really predominantly stood out to me is that
each of us has the innate ability to heal ourselves. Why we have not used this innate ability could be the
simple fact that we do not believe that we can or have not even considered that it was possible. Our body
gives us signs all the time. Sometime it may be an intuition that something is wrong, an inner sense, feeling
or perhaps we even see or hear it.
When you get this insight take a few moments to check in with your body and spirit. How do you feel at
that exact moment? If you are generally healthy then check in with your subtle symptoms or subconscious.
Are you feeling tense? Are you fatigued? Do you have a headache or backache? Are you having trouble
sleeping? All of these can be our body warning us that we are out of sorts in some way. Now is the time to
put our minds to healing ourselves.
Since our bodies have the ability to engage our mechanisms of self-repair by using your thoughts, feelings
and beliefs to put everything in motion. Your body knows how to kill cancer cells, fix broken proteins, slow
aging, eliminate toxins, fight infections, etc. This is not to say that we can disregard what we know is
healthy because we can heal ourselves, but in stead to verify that at times things happen to us that we can
repair. So how do we do this you ask?
To do this you have to put your body in a relaxation response. It is only when we are in a relaxed place and
not the ’flight or fight’ place that our body can heal. Most important is that you must Believe that you can
heal yourself. This has been proven time and again through the ’placebo effect’ so just believe. Refuse to
accept diagnosis of incurable or chronic. Eliminate those thoughts and beliefs from your thought process.
Then find the right group of people of like mindedness as a support system. You want folks who believe in
the power to heal. We recently saw this with our own Smash, when a group of like minded folks put out the
energy and belief that she could be healed. That is a support group in action with great results.
Listen to your body because no one knows your body better than you. So listen to your intuition and trust
what you sense. Then self-diagnose what is happening, what is causing you stress. You already know this
just take a moment to bring it to your consciousness. As with any doctor once there is a diagnosis write a
prescription. This will be a self-guided plan of action to implement for maximum health and vitality. Ask
yourself, “What do I need for my body to be able to heal?” The answer may be something simple like
getting to bed earlier, however it could be harder such as removing yourself from a toxic relationship or a
specific situation.
Finally you must separate yourself from the outcome. I do not know why some folks are healed and some
not but I do believe that it has to do with Trust. When you put your trust in (your name for divinity) and
then release the outcome to their higher power things occur.
Stay positive, fill your mind and environment with positive and most of all remember to laugh.
Reprint from website: by Cindy Hopper
http://alphamom.com/family-fun/crafts/sandpaper-printed-t-shirt/
This is a super simple sandpaper printing technique that will keep your kids busy and make one cute shirt!
The best part about this fun little craft is that the supplies were bought at the Dollar Store, even the T-shirt!
We used crayons we already had so we only spent $2.00 on our new T-shirt.
You'll Need:




good quality crayons,
a t-shirt
iron
fine sand paper. (The more coarse
for different results.)
sandpaper will give a different texture. Try them all
How To:
Color a fun design on the sandpaper. Remind children that the image will be reversed. Once the
design is colored go back over the design giving the sandpaper an extra thick layer of crayon.
Place a piece of cardboard inside the t-shirt to keep the design from bleeding through to the back of the
shirt. Position the sandpaper right side down on the t-shirt.
Place a piece of parchment paper or paper towel on top of the
sandpaper to protect the iron. Iron, on cotton setting, the
sandpaper for about 30 second. Gently lift one edge and make sure you have a good
print before totally removing the sandpaper. Iron a bit more if you need to transfer
more of the crayon.
Remove the sandpaper. You’ll have a print with loads of cool texture–not to mention a new darling t-shirt.
4th of July BBQ Fundraiser at Spirit Haven Ranch
Come out and join us at Spirit Haven for a fabulous 4th of July celebration! Karaoke, BBQ, fireworks by our
very own Uncle Boom Boom, and drumming around the Revel Fire...what more could you ask for? Cost is
only $10 for the BBQ dinner.
This is also a workend, so feel free to stay the whole weekend if you're able! There is always work for
willing hands, no matter your skill level or physical ability, and CMA will be providing meals at no cost to
working participants on Saturday and Sunday.
Please RSVP on the Spirit Haven Ranch Team on Facebook so we can plan
properly for meals. And while you're there, be sure to join the group to keep up
with the latest on workend schedules, project plans, and more!

Summer 2014 - The Council of Magickal Arts, Inc.

Transcription

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