Embodying the Divine: Channeling the Energy of Deities

Transformation can be both exciting and terrifying. Trust me, I understand. To move forward and experience real change, it's crucial to practice patience and stay present with what is. This prevents us from making decisions based on anxiety about the unknown or unresolved issues from the past.

Now is the time to turn inward and listen to your intuitive inner voice. Success often follows when we heed the dreams of our hearts and take practical steps to manifest them.

Personally, connecting with the energy of certain gods and goddesses has brought me clarity, healing, and renewed energy. If these practices aren't part of your tradition, you can think of them as archetypes embodying qualities you wish to cultivate.

For me, it's a mystical communion with the Divine. I light a candle, offer flowers, ground myself, and delve inward. I open myself to their guidance and record whatever insights or sensations come to me. It feels like tapping into Divine Wisdom. Then I act on what came through.

Here are some deities I work with regularly:

In the Hindu Tradition:

• Ganesha: Overcoming obstacles.

• Lakshmi: Wealth and good fortune

• Sarasvati: Wisdom

• Durga: Strength and boundaries

In the Ancient Egyptian Tradition:

• Thoth: Communicating deepest truths effectively.

• Sekhmet: Courage and healing

• Isis: Opening the heart.

• Hathor and Bast: Ritual and magic

• Horus: Enhancing intuition and opening the third eye.

Stay tuned for future newsletters and videos where I'll delve into other deities and practices. And join me in person for more in depth experiences coming up soon. See the Upcoming Events page.

Until next time,
Barbara

Exploring the Ancient Origins of Valentine's Day: A Journey Through History 💗

As Valentine's Day approaches, let's take a moment to uncover the rich tapestry of traditions and rituals that have shaped this holiday.

Lupercalia: Tracing Valentine's Day Back to Ancient Rome

Did you know that the roots of Valentine's Day can be traced back to the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia? This fertility celebration, held in mid-February, honored the coming of spring, fertility, and the nurturing of love. Priests would perform rituals involving the sacrifice of a goat and the gentle tapping of women with strips of its skin, symbolizing purification, and fertility blessings. While these customs may seem unconventional to us today, they were integral parts of ancient Roman culture and beliefs.

The Legend of Saint Valentine: Love in the Face of Adversity

One of the most enduring stories associated with Valentine's Day is that of Saint Valentine, a Christian priest who defied Emperor Claudius II's decree against marriage. Despite the risks, Valentine continued to perform marriages in secret, believing in the power of love to transcend obstacles. His compassionate actions, including the famous letter he wrote while in prison to the jailer's daughter signed "From your Valentine," exemplify the timeless ideals of love, sacrifice, and devotion.

Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve

In the Middle Ages in France and England the ritual of picking a single girl’s name out of an urn was a popular tradition. Once a bachelor picked a name,  then took it a step further though, and would draw a heart on his sleeve—which is where wearing your heart on your sleeve comes from! He would then commit to taking care of her for the whole year. An intriguing idea regardless of gender or sexual orientation………

Rituals Through the Ages: From Love Notes to Modern Expressions

Throughout history, expressions of love have taken myriad forms, from handwritten love notes exchanged between lovers to the rise of commercialized greeting cards in the 19th century. Each era has brought its own customs and traditions, reflecting the evolving nature of romance and affection. Today, technology allows us to connect instantly with loved ones through e-cards and messages, but the sentiment remains the same: a heartfelt expression of love and appreciation.

Celebrating Love: Rituals for Connection and Self-Care

As we prepare to celebrate Valentine's Day, let's not only honor our romantic relationships but also cultivate love and connection in all aspects of our lives. Whether it's through renewing our vows, practicing self-care, or expressing gratitude for the beauty of nature, let's embrace rituals that nourish our hearts and souls.

Join the Conversation

I invite you to join the conversation and share your thoughts on the ancient origins of Valentine's Day and the rituals that hold meaning for you. How do you celebrate love in your life, and what traditions do you cherish? Let's celebrate the spirit of Valentine's Day together, honoring love in all its forms.

PS: Make sure to check out our Upcoming Events.

With love and gratitude,
Barbara

Embrace New Beginnings: Lunar New Year Rituals, Vision Boosters, and More!

Picture this: Chinese food, laughter, and brainstorming sessions that ignite your creativity. As my friend Liz quipped, "One from column A, one from column B"—a metaphor for exploring new paths toward your 2024 vision. This is a ritual that my friend Emil and I started in 2023 and it works!

In fact, one of the things that came out of our time together was the idea of Quarterly Vision Boosters and private Vision Experiences.

Stay tuned for in-person and online gatherings designed to ignite your vision and propel you forward. Want to host a Vision Booster in your city? Reach out to us at info@barbarabiziou.com for more details.

Get Ready for the Lunar New Year—February 10th, the Year of the Wooden Dragon!

As we welcome new beginnings, let's clear out the old to make space for abundance. It's time to declutter your home and your life, shedding what no longer serves you. Out with the old socks and chipped teacups—make room for fresh energy and opportunities!

Celebrate the Lunar New Year with Time-Honored Traditions!

• Create an Altar: Decked in lucky colors—red, gold, silver, and white—to manifest your desires.
   

• Indulge in Lucky Foods savor the flavors of prosperity and good fortune by eating longevity noodles, dumplings and vibrant oranges and tangerines. 
   

• Connect with Loved Ones: Whether in person or through video calls, share the joy of the new year with family and friends.
   

• Pay Tribute to Ancestors: Light a candle and honor the wisdom and guidance of those who came before us.
   

• Experience the Festivities: Attend a local Lunar New Year Celebration or tune in online to soak in the energy of this auspicious occasion.

This is a year of experiences. What do you want to feel this year? As I have been saying, let your heart guide you, call in the resources you require to be spiritually aligned to your vision  and then let your brain figure out the strategy.

IS INDIA CALLING YOU?

Our trip to India is one of the ultimate experiences I am offering this year…a private pilgrimage into the heart of the Divine Feminine during the festival of Navratri September 29th  - October 13th. I am only taking a small group, so space is limited. I will be holding Q and A’s to answer all of your questions. Please visit INDIA page for more details.

And I will be offering monthly teachings on the rituals and spirituality of India starting in March.

PS: Make sure to check out our Upcoming Events. 

Until next time,
Barbara

Welcoming the Light With Candlemas Ritual 🕯️

Forget about furry forecasters and shadow sightings; let's delve into the enchanting realm of ancient traditions. February 2nd marks a pivotal moment not just for weather predictions but for spiritual transformation as well.

In the mystical tapestry of the Goddess Tradition, this day is known as Candlemas, or Imbolc, or Brigit's Day. Picture this: the Earth stirs from its wintry slumber, and so does the Goddess. She sheds her cloak of cronehood and emerges, radiant and youthful, as the maiden once more. It's a celestial ballet, this dance of transformation, unfolding precisely halfway between the darkness of the Winter Solstice and the light of the Spring Equinox.

While the groundhog ponders his shadow, we turn inward, guided by the ancient wisdom of Brigit, the Goddess of Poetry, Healing, and Smithcraft. As the fires of ancient bonfires crackle in homage to her, we too ignite our inner flames, embracing the poetic beauty of our existence, tending to the wounds of our souls, and forging anew the tools of our craft.

But here's the secret that the groundhog might not know: regardless of his shadowy antics, spring unfurls its petals precisely six weeks from today. For in the heart of every seeker, there lies a stirring—a call to confront our shadows, those slithering serpents of the soul, and reconcile the light and darkness within us before the verdant rebirth of springtime.

So, my fellow seekers of magic and wisdom, let us honor this sacred time not just with predictions of the weather but with rituals of self-discovery and empowerment. Let us heed the call of Brigit, weaving poetry with every step, tending to the garden of our souls, and embracing the divine spark of creation that flickers within each of us.

As the flames of our intentions rise high into the night sky, let us welcome the season of awakening with open hearts and spirits ablaze, for in the dance of the Goddess, we find the rhythm of our own souls.

Ritual for Candlemas

This is a time to rededicate yourself to Spirit.

It is tradition to light as many candles as you can to symbolically bring light to your life. I like to light one candle for each aspect I am imbuing. 

Start by saying the following statement aloud: “I now make a sacred covenant with Mother/Father God to live a powerful life and to accept myself as a unique voice of Spirit.”

Take a moment to center yourself and pray for the change you hope to bring into your life.

For example: “I light this candle to honor my relationships”,  “I light this candle to bring flexibility and strength into my body”, “I light this candle to triple my income this year”, “I light this candle to own my power”.

Visualize your life blossoming with love, creativity, health and joy.
PS Make sure to scroll down for the Upcoming Events. 

Until next time,
Barbara

I See You!…..Honoring Presence

I am blessed to have a sacred community of women I meet with on a regular basis. Every gathering becomes a haven where we weave the threads of connection, holding space for vulnerability, sharing our triumphs, and basking in each other's joys. In this tapestry of shared experiences, I feel seen. This wealth of authentic connection and support is my true wealth: a wealth beyond measure. 

This is not a new concept as I was reminded as I recently read an article in the NY Times written by Rabbi Sharon Brous.

She describes “a pilgrimage ritual from the time of the Second Temple when hundreds of thousands of Jews would ascend to Jerusalem, the center of Jewish religious and political life. They would climb the steps of the Temple Mount and enter its enormous plaza, turning to the right en masse, circling counterclockwise.

Meanwhile, the brokenhearted, the mourners (and here I would also include the lonely and the sick), would make this same ritual walk but they would turn to the left and circle in the opposite direction: every step against the current.

And each person who encountered someone in pain would look into that person’s eyes and inquire: “What happened to you? Why does your heart ache?”
“My father died,” a person might say. “There are so many things I never got to say to him.” Or perhaps: “My partner left. I was completely blindsided.” Or: “My child is sick. We’re awaiting the test results.”

Those who walked from the right would offer a blessing: “May the Holy One comfort you,” they would say. “You are not alone.” And then they would continue to walk until the next person approached.

This timeless wisdom speaks to what it means to be human in a world of pain. This year, you walk the path of the anguished. Perhaps next year, it will be me. I hold your broken heart knowing that one day you will hold mine.”

Being in community is a way to presence yourself as my friend Lera would say. And on that note, come join me and a fabulous community of conscious seekers at VISION 2024 January 27-28. Reconnect to old friends and make new ones. It is your chance to hold space for others as they hold space for you.

Until next time,
Barbara

What I learned from my first Spiritual Teacher

In the dance of creation, shedding the old is an inevitable step towards welcoming the new. Embracing change is not just a choice; it's the catalyst for unlocking your true potential. Here is what I learned from my first Spiritual Teacher that helps me navigate change. 

1. The Power of Letting Go: Transforming Anxiety into Excitement
Saying goodbye to the past can be both thrilling and nerve-wracking as we navigate the unknown. Remember, you cannot outperform your old self-image. The past is over, and the canvas for your future masterpiece is waiting to be painted.

2. Dive into the Ocean of Light: A Technique for Renewal
I invite you to try a rejuvenating technique inspired by my teacher, Omraam Mikhael Aivanhov. Find a quiet space, lie down, and imagine sinking into an ocean of light. Feel the tension leaving every cell of your body as you recharge your batteries for 3-5 minutes. It's a simple yet profound way to soothe your nervous system and open yourself to change.

3. Commit to Transformation: Guiding Your Desires into Reality
Making a commitment to your Higher Self is the first step towards manifesting your desires. As you embrace change, you'll be guided to the best possible path for your journey. And the fastest way to do this? Through support – spiritual, emotional, and physical.

4. Triad of Support: Elevate Your Journey

• Spiritual Support: Align with your Higher /Wisdom Self, Spirit, The Quantum Field. A Seek the company of spiritually uplifting individuals who speak the truth and propel you forward.

• Emotional Support: Embrace the power of vulnerability. Share your journey with those who genuinely care and understand the depths of your aspirations.

• Physical Support: Form partnerships with those who possess the knowledge and resources needed to breathe life into your vision.

5. Unlock New Possibilities: Seek Support and Soar
 Every request for help sets new possibilities in motion. Don't shy away from seeking the support you need. In the synergy of shared wisdom and energy, you'll find the keys to unlock doors you never knew existed.

6. Subject Yourself to Change and Emerge Stronger!
Remember, change is not the end; it's the beginning of something extraordinary. Commit yourself to the transformative power of letting go and emerge stronger, more vibrant, and ready to manifest your vision.
Here's to your journey of transformation!

PS Make sure to check out our Upcoming Events.

Until next time,
Barbara

Don't Miss Out On A Blessing...🦋

Many years ago when life threw me a curveball, I didn't back down—I transformed it into an extraordinary adventure! Picture this: ready to start my dream job in Rome, only for it to vanish 10 days before takeoff. But instead of surrendering to disappointment, I trusted my instincts and forged ahead (even though I was terrified!).

With just a modest graduation gift from my parents, I turned adversity into opportunity, unlocking a path that led me to the heart of the film industry. Surrounded by incredible individuals, many of whom continue to shape my life, I eventually found myself in the vibrant city of London.

Lesson learned? While setting clear goals is crucial, my journey has taught me to remain open to unexpected opportunities. The Universe's gifts often come in unexpected packages, and by embracing the unknown, I've discovered a world of possibilities beyond my wildest dreams.

Now, join me on a voyage of limitless potential, where trusting the journey can lead to unimaginable success. Let's break free from constraints, explore new horizons, and uncover the hidden treasures that await us. Together we can support each other.

“The man whispered, God, speak to me, and a meadowlark sang.
But the man did not hear.
The man looked around, hearing nothing so the man yelled, “God, speak to me! And the thunder rolled across the sky.
But the man did not listen.
The man looked around and said, God let me see you”
And a star shined brightly.
But the man did not notice.
And the man shouted,
“God show me a miracle!” and a life was born.
But the man did not know. So, the man cried out in despair, touch me, God and let me know you are here!”
Whereupon, God reached down and touched the man, but the man brushed the butterfly away and walked on.”
 —Author unknown

Don't miss out on a blessing because it isn't packaged the way that you expect.

PS Make sure to check out our Upcoming Events.

Until next time,

Barbara

Embrace The Power Of Grace And Ignite Your Vision In 2024!

Happy New Year! I hope this message finds you in great spirits as we embark on a journey into the possibilities that 2024 holds for each of us.

As we step into this dynamic transformative year, I've been reflecting on the concept of grace. It's fascinating how the universe aligns messages, and when a dear friend and Gurumayi both emphasized the theme of "Grace" for 2024, it struck a chord deep within me.

Grace, often described as unmerited divine assistance, is a gift from the universe that requires only our openness to receive it. It's a reminder to let go of feelings of unworthiness and the belief that we've somehow missed the mark. In the spirit of grace, let's embrace the new year with open hearts and a willingness to receive the abundance that awaits.

This year holds the energy of alignment and untapped potential. It invites us to shed self-doubt and over-analysis. It's a call to transform criticism into perception and unlock the doors to our dreams. If a breakthrough is what we seek, it begins with a shift in mindset and a commitment to real action. It is a year that can be both joyful and abundant and calls for us to be in community.

Join me on January 27th and 28th for VISION 2024, a live online event that promises inspiration, insights, and a community of like-minded individuals. Together, we'll explore the transformative power of grace and delve into practices that connect us to both earthly and higher frequencies.

Our incredible guest presenters include:

1. Lavinia Errico: Unveiling MOVEJOY, combining breathwork and movement.
2. Rebecca Gordon: Offering an astrological overview of 2024.
3. Emil Wilbekin: Sharing his journey of manifesting and building resilience as a professor, journalist, and activist.
4. Glendy Yeung: Immersing you in a healing sound bath experience.

During Vision 2024, I'll be sharing powerful spiritual techniques and rituals, guiding you through practices to access both earthly and higher soul frequencies. Additionally, we'll come together to create vision collages and connect with like-minded individuals worldwide in small breakout sessions.

This is your opportunity to claim your creative talents, embrace the new, and find partnerships that truly support both you and our planet. Let's make 2024 a year of growth, community, and personal breakthroughs. Secure your spot for VISION 2024 now and step into a year filled with inspiration and transformation. 

Wishing you a year filled with grace, peace, abundance, and the realization of your deepest visions.

With excitement and anticipation,
Barbara

Embrace 2024 with 12 Powerful Rituals and Exclusive Opportunities! 🎆

As we approach the end of 2023, it's time to consciously release the energy of the past year and welcome the new possibilities that 2024 holds for each of us. Here are 12 transformative rituals to help you consciously end this year and step into the new one with intention and purpose:

1. Release the Old: Clear out clutter and symbolically let go of the past. Explore traditions from around the world for inspiration. Here are a few I love, and I will be posting more on my IG and FB pages this week.

Italian Street Sharing: Channel the Italian tradition of letting go by placing unwanted items on the street (or recycle) for others to claim. Embrace the communal spirit of street shopping.

Thai Water Renewal: Adopt the Thai custom of using water for cleansing and renewal. Splash water out of doors or windows (be mindful of passers-by!) or into public fountains to symbolize a fresh start.

Cuban Cleansing Gesture: Follow the Cuban tradition by taking a bucket of symbolic dirty water, representing the past year's negativity, and throw it into the street. Make it a grand, dramatic gesture to declare you're DONE with the bad stuff.

Native American Earth Release: Connect with nature using a Native American-inspired ritual. Find a meaningful outdoor spot, dig a small hole, and place regrets, fears, or worries from the past year into it. Cover with leaves or stones, allowing the earth to absorb the past. If the ground is too hard, shred or burn the representation in a fire-proof bowl.

2. Clear Your Altar:

• Make your sacred space inviting for positive energy.

• Wash your crystals, simplify your altar, and create space for new energy.

3. Forgive and Make Amends: Extend apologies and rectify situations to open communication.

4. Unplug and Reflect:

• Take a day of silence to connect with your inner self.

• Make sure you honor your body’s rhythms and needs.

5. Purify Your Home:

• Use sage, copal, or fresh lemon to cleanse your space.

• Take a refreshing bath with sea salt and white rose petals.

6. Bless:

• Send blessings to your life, loved ones, and the world.

• Spread positive energy with appreciation cards.

7. Invite Good Luck: Decorate with lucky symbols like bamboo and money trees.

8. Give Back: Volunteer, recycle, and contribute to the positive energy of the world.

9. Eat for Luck: Embrace lucky foods like grapes, noodles, and round fruits.

10. Welcome Prosperity: Follow a unique tradition of throwing money into your home/office for good luck - watch my video on IG or FB on Dec 31st to see how.

As we gear up for 2024, I invite you to join me on an enriching journey:

My spiritual teacher Omraam Mikhael Aivanhov taught me that the first 12 days of the year set an intention for the entire year so I will be sending out 12 free meditations starting on January 1st to help you enter the New Year strong and grounded. If you have friends who would enjoy these, have them sign up for this newsletter and they will automatically receive them.

Wishing you a transformative end to 2023 and an exciting beginning to 2024!

With love and light,
Barbara

Embracing the Winter Solstice ❄️

Dear friend, take a deep breath as we enter this sacred time of the Winter Solstice, a moment of transition and renewal. Amidst the noise and chaos of 2023, let's pause for quiet reflection and inner nourishment.

Winter Solstice: A Sacred Gateway In the Northern Hemisphere (Summer Solstice in the Southern), we stand on the brink of external and internal change. It's a time to go inward, to ignite our inner light, and embrace the shortest day and longest night of the year.

A Time of Rebirth and Reflection across cultures, the Winter Solstice symbolizes the birth of a sun child— the Egyptian deity Isis gave birth to Horus, the sun god; the Greek Leto gave birth to a shining Apollo. In the matriarchal religions, the rebirth of the goddess herself as celebrated-Persephone, Besana, Amaterasu, and Sun Woman. Mother Nature invites us to release beliefs and habits contributing to chaos, paving the way for abundance and joy.

Hold the Light for Yourself and Others As we approach this transformative time, remember that the world needs your light. In the words of India Arie,

"I am light, I am light
I am not the things my family did
I am not the voices in my head
I am not the pieces of the brokenness inside.
I am light

I'm not the mistakes that I have made
Or any of the things that caused me pain
I am not the pieces of the dream I left behind.
I am light

I am not the color of my eyes
I am not the skin on the outside
I am not my age
I am not my race, my soul inside is all light
All light
I am divinity defined
I am the god on the inside
I am a star
A piece of it all
I am light."

Be a beacon of positivity and change.

PS: Make sure to check out my Upcoming Events.

Until next time,
Barbara

Turning Goals into Achievements: Your Blueprint for the Rest of 2023

As we stand on the cusp of a new year, the cosmic energies of the upcoming New Moon in Sagittarius beckon us to embark on a journey of self-discovery, freedom, and optimism. In the spirit of this celestial alignment, I invite you to join me in unlocking the boundless potential available currently.

Crafting a Vision for a Fulfilling Life: Begin to consider a new or expanded vision that propels you toward a more expansive existence. Which area of your life is ready for growth and transformation? Identify where you may feel limited or restricted and, more importantly, question who or what is imposing these limitations. Your journey to self-discovery begins with these profound inquiries.

Igniting Inspiration for a Meaningful Life: The month of December is a great time to seek inspiration as the catalyst for a purposeful life. What stirs your soul? What ignites the fire within you? Embracing inspiration is the key to crafting a life rich in meaning and fulfillment.

Embracing Truth and Ethical Living: Sagittarius, the ruler of ethics, prompts us to examine our lifestyles. Are our actions in alignment with our professed values? What do we truly stand for? It's time to confront the truth within and align our choices with our deepest convictions.

Navigating Mercury Retrograde: As we navigate the cosmic currents, Mercury Retrograde (Dec 12- Jan 1) invites us to slow down, reflect on the past, and ensure the secure backing up of all aspects of our lives. Take the time needed to navigate this period mindfully. Mercury does not go direct until January, so let this time be one of exploration and completion rather than initiation.

Join me on this transformative journey as we countdown to 2024. Together, let's embrace the cosmic energies, stand in our truth, and move forward with renewed vigor.

Follow me on social media for updates on upcoming events and rituals to both end the year consciously and open new energy for 2024. Your path to enlightenment awaits!

PS: Make sure to check out our Upcoming Events.

In cosmic synergy,
Barbara

Ignite Holiday Magic: Create a Blessing Bag 🎁🛍️

After spending Thanksgiving in Vermont with my family, I realized how privileged I am to be able to travel and share special moments with those I love. And I get to go to LA to see my son, daughter in law and friends for Chanukah. (I will be seeing a few clients the week of Dec 11th, so contact our office if you would like to make an appointment for energy clearing, ritual or reading).

As we are moving into the December Holidays (Holy Days), let us all consciously create acts of kindness. Our consciousness creates our reality.

CREATE A BLESSING BAG 

I saw this idea on Facebook and wanted to share it. If you drive, keep a few blessing bags in your car, and if you are in a walking City or Town, carry one with you during the day. The idea is to fill it with items like socks, gloves, toothpaste, wipes, snacks, and other items that can help someone who is homeless or in a bad way. If you feel moved, throw in some money, just because.

HOLIDAY GIFTS

Give yourself or a loved one a personal INTUITIVE TAROT READING to gain clarity. Gift certificates are also available. Book here >>

AROMATHERAPY SPRAYS: a perfect present to add positive vibrations—for your personal use and for your home and business. Shop here >>

HOLIDAY RITUAL for your friends/family. Barbara is available for private parties to do short entertainment readings and special rituals. Reach out to us >>

Until next time,
Barbara

A Pause for Gratitude: Thanksgiving Ritual and A Free Meditation

As we approach Thanksgiving in the U.S., a time traditionally dedicated to gratitude, this year has presented unique challenges for many. In a world marked by stress, war, uncertainty, and loss, finding moments of joy and thankfulness becomes a potent remedy for the soul.

This Thanksgiving, irrespective of whether it's your holiday or not, I invite you to join in a special ritual.

A Pause for Gratitude

1. Release the Weight of the Past: Set aside the burdens of yesterday and express gratitude for the gift of the present holiday.

2. Complaint Fast: Challenge yourself to abstain from complaining, shifting focus towards positivity.

3. Embrace the Present: Be present in the moment, acknowledging what is instead of dwelling on what isn't.

4. Gratitude for Small Things: Find gratitude in the small joys of life, appreciating the beauty in simplicity.

5. Avoid Comparison: Stop measuring success against impossible standards or comparing yourself to others.

6. Embrace Openness: Acknowledge the countless gifts in your life and remain open to future possibilities.

7. Cultivate Joy: Incorporate laughter and activities that bring you joy.

   To enhance this experience, I've recorded a special meditation as a gift to you -LISTEN HERE.

Holiday Gifts

Give yourself or a loved one a personal INTUITIVE TAROT READING to gain clarity. I am offering a special savings of 20% during my birthday month (use code NOVEMBER20 at checkout), so buy one now and use by January 30th, 2024. Gift certificates are also available. Book here >>

AROMATHERAPY SPRAYS: a perfect present to add positive vibrations—for your personal use and for your home and business. Shop here >>

HOLIDAY RITUAL for your friends/family. Barbara is available for private parties to do short entertainment readings and special rituals. Reach out to us >>

PS: Make sure to check out our upcoming events.

Until next time,
Barbara

Embracing the Power of Connection: Finding Comfort in Togetherness

In these challenging times, we often seek comfort and solace in different ways. However, what I have found that truly brings real comfort is simpler than we might think—being connected to one another.

It can be as straightforward as your dentist calling to check on you after dental surgery (I know that this is rare nowadays, but my dentist did this Friday) or your friends reaching out daily or weekly just because you share a deep friendship.

It's about asking your local supermarket checker about her daughter, showing that you genuinely care about the people in your community. And I have discovered that the  simple act of inquiring about the name of a homeless person as you offer them support in the form of money or food can create a profound connection. In fact, one man told me no one had looked him in the eye and asked what his name was in months!

Sending birthday or anniversary cards to celebrate the people in your life is a beautiful gesture, showing that you cherish them. And attending a meditation group is an excellent way to add more light to the world.
 

THIS WEEK'S RITUAL

Reach out and make some real connections. Remember, we are all connected, and as you uplift someone, they can pay it forward, creating a ripple effect of positivity.

Together, we can make a difference and bring comfort to those in need. Let's embrace the power of connection and support one another in our shared journey.
 

HOLIDAY GIFTS

Give yourself or a loved one a personal INTUITIVE TAROT READING to gain clarity. Gift certificates are also available. Book here >>

AROMATHERAPY SPRAYS: a perfect present to add positive vibrations—for your personal use and for your home and business. Shop here >>

HOLIDAY RITUAL for your friends/family. I am available for private parties to do short entertainment readings and special rituals. Reach out to us >>

PS: Make sure to check out our upcoming events.

Until next time,
Barbara

Make Failure Fantastic!

Every now and then, you encounter a book or a film that not only reignites the flames of hope in the face of a world filled with negativity, but also profoundly reshapes your perspective and outlook on life.

For me, that transformative experience came with "Radical", a film rooted in a true story. It narrates the journey of Sergio Juárez Correa, a dedicated teacher in a Mexican border town, brilliantly portrayed by Eugenio Derbez ('CODA'). Sergio embarks on a radical approach to teaching, aiming to unlock his students' full potential.

What struck me the most was the notion that failure is not just accepted but encouraged. Sergio urges his students to embrace their curiosity and welcomes their failures with open arms. In doing so, he removes the heavy burden of always having to be right.

Reflecting on this, I recall a time when I was teaching a spirituality course to kids. I posed a question, met with silence. But when I asked, "What would your answer be if you knew it?" Suddenly, everyone was eager to share their thoughts.

As we step into the spiritual portal of 11/11, a period that promises new beginnings, it's the perfect time to abandon the old ways of being right and having all the answers. Instead, let's embrace curiosity, innovation, and boundless joy on our quest to forge new paths and manifest unique visions.

November 12th begins the Hindu Festival of Diwali – representing light over darkness. As a ritual to bring in light at this time, light a candle to call in the Light of The Divine (God, Goddess, Spirit, Creator) to transform hatred, anger, ignorance and greed into love, compassion and true wisdom. Feel free to make this prayer your own.

PS: Make sure to check out our upcoming events.

Until next time,
Barbara

Rituals To Do on Halloween

In all transparency, I love Halloween. As a kid, it meant candy, costumes, and trick-or- treating. Today, as a New Yorker, it means one of the biggest parades of the year with a focus on fun and celebration.

Yet, Hallows or Hallomas started out as a festival to honor the Crone, -the wise grandmother. Over the years it has been transformed and commercialized into wicked old witches flying on broomsticks with black cats. Even the cauldron has changed meaning as it represented the womb of the Goddess –a symbol of rebirth.

For the Celts, it is called Samhain- summers end- and it is the beginning of the Celtic New Year. From darkness, endings and death comes light and rebirth. Something we all need to remember.

This is a holy time when the veil between the worlds is thin. Many cultures believe that the ancestors return to visit at this time and can communicate with the living.

In Ireland, it is believed that the fairies come out on this special night. One of these days I will write about my personal experience up in Lilydale where I saw fairies for the first time.

Honoring Ancestors

In Mexico and over Latin America, El Dia del las Muertes – Day of the Dead – (Nov 1st and 2nd) is celebrated at the cemetery. Families sweep the graves, bring food, create altars with marigolds and sugar skulls and celebrate those who have died. It is also a way to teach children that death is part of life and not to fear it.

Christians all over the world celebrate All Souls Day (Nov 1) to remember all 
Saints and Martyrs and All Saints Day (November 2) to pray that all those who have passed will rest in peace.

Rituals to Do

In the true spirit of Halloween let us take some time to honor our ancestors and to share their gifts and history with our children and community

Why not make this Halloween a time to honor our elders by asking them to share stories of their past. Personally, I love doing video interviews. 

And remember that we are the ancestors of the future, so include your stories here as well.

Until next time,
Barbara

Invoke The Energy Of The Great Mother For Comfort And Protection

This week we have 3 powerful goddesses who are said to visit the earth plane to help fight our internal and external battles during the Hindu Festival of Navratri.

It is believed that this is the time when the Shakti power is most available for protection, destroying dark forces and obstacles, bestowing supernormal perception, and giving us health and abundance.

No matter what your religion, this is a powerful time to invoke the energy of the Great Mother for the comfort and protection you require during these turbulent times.

The three goddesses celebrated at this time are:

DURGA: Powerful aspect to release negative and destructive energy. Let her light your source of internal power to clear out toxic habits, thoughts, and patterns both personally and globally.

LAKSHMI: She represents both the physical aspects of wealth and the ability to use it to contribute great worth to the world. 

SARASWATI: Goddess of enlightenment and spiritual wisdom. She guides you to discern right from wrong and to activate your powers of communication.

Meditate on these aspects this week and see what comes to you.

This is the general Navaratri mantra you can chant each night if you feel called. Do it 108 times with devotion and intention.

OM AIM HREEM KLEEEM CHAMUNDAYE VICHCHE SWAHA 

AUM   AYM   HREE-M   KLEE-M   CHA-MUN-DAYEE   
                          VISHAY- SHA  - SWA-HA

Currently, there is an unusually large amount of emotional and mental energy that is congesting and creating disturbances in our bodies and homes. It is important to clear out this energy so that positive energy can flow into your body, home, and place of business.

If you would like to schedule an energy clearing, please reach out to me. Clearings can be done in person, via Zoom or FaceTime.

Until next time,
Barbara

Connecting With Spiritual Resources During Violent Times🕯️

As I was watching the horrific violence in Israel and Palestine this weekend, I realized that I was taking on the sadness, anger, overwhelm and hatred that was occurring in the Middle East.

There is no easy answer to this situation when terrorists commit horrendous acts of violence against men, women, and children. 

Yet, it is crucial that we clear our energy of this collective horror so that we can move into whatever constructive action we are called to do. For some of us, it is prayer, for others donating money, volunteering, and/or taking political action.

First: Give yourself time to grieve. Then when you feel ready, clear your energy field by calling in the Violet Flame, offering your pain to the Earth, screaming out your frustration, taking a bath or shower in sea salt or any other means that work for you. It is crucial to take care of your anxiety so it does not get stuck in your physical body and make you sick. 

Second: Connect to your Higher Self to access the higher frequency you require to stay connected and present. Breath work, meditation, prayer, a consistent spiritual practice, and movement can help.

Third: Pray for Peace. I want to share this from One Spirit:

We grieve for all those who have been killed, we pray for comfort and solace for their loved ones, we pray for healing for those who have been wounded or injured, we pray for shelter for those who have been forced to flee their homes, we pray for the safety and the safe return of those taken hostage. We pray for the wisdom and courage that have so far eluded us to resolve the underlying and ongoing conflicts that explode into violence again and again. We pray for some way to undo the generations of hate and strife that cause people to see others as less than human.

Fourth: Become a warrior/warrioress for restoring peace in the world.

This weekend we have a New Moon/Libra Solar Eclipse and the beginning of the Hindu Festival of Navratri (9 nights of the goddess).

On Sunday, I will be doing a special ceremony to align us to the power of the goddess Durga- She is a warrior goddess who represent the Power of the Universe and our own power- something that is truly needed at this time of chaos and strife. We will also honor the goddess Lakshmi to bring in the wealth and love we require as well as celebrating the goddess Saraswati to connect us to true spiritual wisdom  and the ability to communicate it to the world for good.

Being in a supportive community can hold us up and give us the resources required during this difficult time.

And a happy Thanksgiving to our friends in Canada who celebrated yesterday.

PS: Make sure to check out our upcoming events.

Until next time,
Barbara

The Path of True Transformation 🦋

There is a lot of talk about transformation, yet it takes time and a willingness to let go of the old for it to happen. This article says it all. I have shared it before, but it is worth reading again.
 

FEAR OF TRANSFORMATION
 

"Sometimes I feel that my life is a series of trapeze swings. I’m either hanging on to a trapeze bar swinging along or, for a few moments in my life, I’m hurtling across space in between trapeze bars. 

Most of the time, I spend my life hanging on for dear life to my trapeze-bar-of-the-moment. It carries me along at a certain steady rate of swing & I have the feeling that I’m in control of my life. I know most of the right questions and even some of the right answers. But once in a while, as I’m merrily (or not so merrily) swinging along, I look out ahead of me into the distance, and what do I see? I see another trapeze bar swinging toward me. It’s empty, and I know, in that place in me that knows, that this new trapeze bar has my name on it. It is my next step, my growth, my aliveness coming to get me. In my heart-of-hearts I know that for me to grow, I must release my grip on this present, well-known bar to move to the new one. 

Each time it happens to me, I hope (no, I pray) that I won’t have to grab the new one. But in my knowing place I know I must totally release my grasp on my old bar, and for some moment in time I must hurtle across space before I can grab onto the new bar. Each time I am filled with terror. It doesn’t matter that in all my previous hurtles across the void of unknowing I have always made it.  

Each time I am afraid that I will miss, that I will be crushed on unseen rocks in the bottomless chasm between the bars. But I do it anyway. Perhaps this is the essence of what the mystics call the faith experience. No guarantees, no net, no insurance policy, but you do it anyway because somehow, to keep hanging on to that old bar is no longer on the list of alternatives.

And so for an eternity that can last a microsecond or a thousand lifetimes, I soar across the dark void of “the past is gone, the future is not yet here.” It’s called transition. I have come to believe that is the only place the real change occurs. I mean real change, not the pseudo-change that only lasts until the next time my old buttons get punched. 

I have noticed that, in our culture, this transition zone is looked upon as a “nothing,” a no-place between places. Sure, the old trapeze bar was real, and the new one coming towards me, I hope that’s real too. But the void in between? That’s just a scary, confusing, and disorienting “nowhere” that must be gotten through as fast and as unconsciously as possible. What a waste!

I have a sneaking suspicion that the transition zone is the only real thing & the bars are illusions we dream up to avoid the void, where the real change, the real growth occurs for us. Whether or not my hunch is true, it remains that the transition zones in our lives are incredibly rich places. They should be honored, even savored. Yes, with all the pain and fear and feelings of being out-of-control that can (but not necessarily) accompany transitions, they are still the most alive, most growth-filled, passionate, expansive moments in our lives.

And so, transformation of fear may have nothing to do with making fear go away, but rather with giving ourselves permission to “hang-out” in the transition between trapeze bars. Transforming our need to grab that new bar, any bar, is allowing ourselves to dwell in the only place where change really happens. It can be terrifying. It can also be enlightening, in the true sense of the word. Hurtling through the void, we just may learn how to fly." —From the Essene Book of Days

All of my spiritual practice is focused on raising my energetic vibration so I can have a stronger connection to Divine Guidance. Without this connection, I find it  incredibly challenging to shift, be present with what is and make space for something new to enter. 

If this is something that resonates with you, I would love to be your guide. It is time to shine and share your gifts in a way that is true for you.

Until next time,
Barbara

Ritual Of New Beginnings🕯️

Fasting and contemplation are a major part of my ritual on Yom Kippur (the Holiest Day of the Year in Judaism). No matter where I am in the world, I stop and spend a day fasting and in prayer. I have learned that there is a power in stopping and unplugging from my ordinary life.  When I can quiet my mind, Spirit has the opportunity to share ideas with me….It is time when I can get a new perspective on my current situation and on the world.

This has always been a time of reflection; looking at the things I did that worked and those that did not. And I know that Spirit is always showing me my “shadow” aspects reflected in the people and situations I have around me. As much as possible, I use this time to take back my projections that I have put on others.

During this practice there are two times when traditionally we ask God to forgive us and release us from  any vows we have made to ourselves and God, and then again we ask forgiveness for anything we have done that has harmed another.

I look at this as a time to examine my actions without having to carry the heaviness around into the next year. It is a way of wiping the slate clean and then re-committing to becoming the person I choose to grow into. I choose to connect to the higher frequency of love and wisdom to make a positive difference in the world.

As I think of the children of the future looking back at us, it is a reminder that we are the ancestors of the future and therefore the choices we make today ripple through time, impacting the world for generations. It underscores the importance of living with integrity, compassion, and wisdom.

Yom Kippur not only honors the traditions of Judaism but also It's a testament to the transformative power of ritual and reflection. No matter what your religion or spiritual practice is, may this sacred day continue to bring you clarity, forgiveness, and a renewed sense of purpose.

RITUAL OF NEW BEGINNINGS

1. Take some clay or play dough.

2. Create a symbol or figure that represents you.

3. Sit quietly and focus on things you want to create or change.

4. Bless it with health, wealth, the potential for spiritual growth , wisdom, creativity, love and/or anything else you desire..

5. Visualize yourself with these new qualities.

6. Keep it on your altar as a reminder of the New You.

PS: Make sure to check out our upcoming events.

Until next time,
Barbara