Savoring Summer’s Abundance 🌻

Can you believe it's the final week of summer? While the Equinox may be the official start of Fall, for many—especially in places like NYC—Labor Day feels like the true transition into a new season.

Summer carries with it the magic of fun, freedom, celebration, and romance. It’s a time of pure joy and connection, making it my favorite season of all. So why not honor its abundance and keep that vibrant energy alive throughout the year?

Here's a simple yet meaningful ritual you can try:

Create Your Own Summer Keepsake

Craft or purchase a small bag or pouch and infuse it with summer's magic. Decorate it with shells, beads, and feathers that remind you of the season's joys: a red bead for passion, a turquoise bead for the friends you laughed with, a shell for the days spent at the beach, and a feather for the freedom of bare feet dancing in the sun.

Fill the pouch with rose petals to symbolize love, corn for prosperity, and sunflower seeds for health and happiness. Hang your summer keepsake on your mirror as a beautiful reminder of the warmth and abundance of the season, wherever you go.

PS: Make sure to check out our upcoming events.

With love and light,
Barbara

Embracing Patience in the Flow of the Universe

As I sit in the airport in Burlington on this day of the Super Full Moon, my journey—like so many others this summer—has hit a delay. Planes, trains, and all manner of movement seem to be paused, as if the cosmos itself is urging us to slow down.

In moments like these, when plans change by the minute, I’m reminded that the Universe often speaks to us in subtle ways. And today, the message is clear: Patience.

With Mercury still in retrograde and the energy of this Super Full Moon at its peak, it feels like a time for reflection rather than action. Rainer Maria Rilke, in his timeless wisdom, offers a beautiful reminder:

"Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue."

Let’s embrace this cosmic pause, breathe deeply, and trust that the answers will come in their own time.

Wishing you peace and patience.

With love and light,
Barbara

Blessing Ritual for Siblings and Friends 💕

I’ve just emerged from an extraordinary experience facilitating the Rewire and Renew retreat, where a beautiful tapestry of souls, aged 28 to 87, gathered to connect, heal, and grow. This retreat reaffirmed my deep belief that we are all on this journey together. When we open our hearts to one another, we unlock the true essence of happiness and peace.

As we approach the Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan, or Rakhi, on Monday, August 19th, I invite you to reflect on its profound message. Traditionally, this festival celebrates the bond of love and protection between siblings. A sister ties a red string (raksha) on her brother’s right wrist as a symbol of affection and protection, originally made from cotton string but now ranging from sterling silver to beads and baubles. In return, the brother gives her a gift and vows to protect her. The raksha represents the strengthening of the bond between sisters and brothers.

Even if you don’t follow the Hindu tradition, I believe we can all embrace the spirit of Rakhi. Inspired by the Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore, who envisioned Rakhi as a celebration of universal kindness, let’s use this day as an opportunity to spread blessings, not just among siblings, but to all.

A Simple Ritual with Profound Impact:

This Rakhi, I encourage you to create or buy simple cotton strings, or anything that resonates with you, and offer them to your siblings, friends, and neighbors as a symbol of blessing, respect, and friendship.By taking this small step to honor one another, we fortify the bonds that hold us together and lay the groundwork for a more compassionate world.

Let’s see what happens when we open our hearts. Who says we can’t change the world, one string at a time?

With love and light,
Barbara

How To Set Intentions Under the Lionsgate Portal 💫

The Lions Gate Portal on August 8th is a time to set your intention to open your heart and unite with the quantum field of infinite possibilities and abundance. 

The ancient Egyptians celebrated the annual event when the star Sirius aligned with the Great Pyramid and Sphinx, forming a frequency receptor of celestial light transmission. During this time, light waves stream from the Great Central Sun, through the Blue Star Sirius (our spiritual sun), our Sun, and into the crystalline grid points of the Sphinx and the Great Pyramid of Giza. They believed the energy of Sirius carried highly advanced wisdom that we could tap into and utilize whenever Sirius was strong in the sky.

This is also when the Great Sphinx aligns with the Leo zodiac, and the Nile would flood, bringing abundance to the country.

In numerology, the infinity symbol '8' represents balance, union, and infinite abundance. This year, we are in 8/8/8, as 2024 adds up to 8.

Here are a few intentions to set under the Lionsgate:

• Heart Healings: The Lionsgate portal activates the heart chakra. Old or current wounds of the heart may rise for healing. We may finally feel free from any grief or sadness that has burdened our hearts.

• Third Eye Awakenings: The Lionsgate portal also activates the third eye chakra. We may feel more intuitive or learn something new about how our intuition speaks to us. You may also gain clarity regarding a situation that has been unclear.

• Higher Chakra Openings: This is an opportunity to activate higher spiritual knowledge. At this time our soul chakra is activated. 

• Psychic Downloads: Pay attention to your dreams, as well as signs and symbols you encounter in daily life. You may even receive messages from loved ones who are in spirit.

• Creativity: Lionsgate is a highly creative time and the perfect opportunity to start a new creative project or act on one you’ve been planning.

Be aware that we are in Mercury Retrograde, so you may want to go slow or reflect on any new ideas that come through at this time. I recommend that you keep a journal close by to write down any ideas or thoughts that come to you. I personally like writing with pen and paper, but you can always jot down notes on your phone or tablet.

Make sure to check out our upcoming events.

Until next time,
Barbara

Harnessing the Energy of August Through Ritual 🌽

In the Northern Hemisphere, August is a month of lazy summer days at the beach, iced tea, fresh picked corn and luscious fruits and vegetables. Yet, we forget that our ancestors used this time to harvest the first crops of grain, wheat, and oats.

The tradition in Northern Europe was to celebrate the beginning of the harvest on or around August 1st. It is called Lammas - sometimes called Lughnasadh after the god Lugh-of craftsmanship. This was midway between the summer solstice and the autumn equinox.

It was meant to remind us to be grateful for what we have now and to acknowledge the turning of the seasons. It was a great celebration of the baking of bread from the first wheat harvest as each person participated in honoring Mother Earth. We must remember how important grains were and still are to most of the world. 

Many Native American tribes also celebrate the harvest during this time as the Corn Mother. The Green Corn Ceremony, which is tied to the ripening of the corn crops, is marked with dancing to give thanks to the Great Spirit/Mother, feasting and religious observations. Before any new corn can be eaten, there are rituals of purification and forgiveness. 

HANDFASTING

During the 15th and 16th Century, couples participated in hand-fasting ceremonies at Lammas fairs across Europe. Handfasting was a performed by a couple in front of a witness or two. They joined hands and declared themselves united, sealing it with a kiss. These were trial year- and -a day marriages and one had to renew them more often than traditional wedding vows. If at the end of the trial the couple felt it was not right, they were free to go their separate ways.

LAMMAS RITUAL

I want to share a ritual that my soul-sister Deborah Roth and I did in central park pre-covid. You will need some corn husks, corn kernels, raffia, or string.

1.Take some time to reflect and journal on what you have harvested this season since the Spring Equinox.

Based on fears being transformed, what are your hopes for this harvest? What are your gifts and skills to support those hopes? Where do you need help?

2. Write your harvest intention on a husk with a permanent marker and pick as many corn kernels as you need to represent your hopes/skills/gifts. Then wrap them in the corn husk and tie with raffia or string—each knot represents support, what you need to ask for/do to manifest intention. When you are finished, find a place in nature and offer it to Mother Nature. 

Have Fun, Give Thanks and Be conscious of how you treat our Planet!

Make sure to check out upcoming events.

Until next time,
Barbara

The Energy and Insights of the Full Moon 🌝✨

In a recent online search, my friend Ellen came across a 1991 article in The Standard Star featuring a workshop taught by her cousin, Aviva Gershweir, on “Painting from the Source.” To Ellen’s surprise, the article also mentioned a workshop I was conducting at Wainwright House on “Women and Success: Female Creativity in the Workplace.”

Back then, this workshop, co-facilitated by Allie Roth and myself, was groundbreaking. We introduced a model that integrated logic with intuition—a concept that was quite radical for the business community at the time (and still is for some). I even did a fire release ceremony, which was very out of the box for many of the participants and they loved it!

The Power of integrating the Divine Feminine and Divine Masculine

 The recent Full Moon has invited us to reflect on the balance between our logical and emotional/intuitive minds. It’s a reminder to take positive steps toward integrating both aspects of our brain. Honoring and claiming both the masculine and feminine qualities.

Re-animate, Re-invigorate, Re-imagine

Now is the perfect time to breathe new life into your deepest dreams. We are called to make conscious, positive changes in our lives and in the world. Achieving this requires a heart-centered vision and a grounded structure to bring these dreams into reality. 

As you know, ritual have always been key for me. Rituals often mark doorway moments when we pass from one stage of life to another. They acknowledge that these passages are not just external changes but involve internal transformation.

Your Personal Reflection

Consider the advice you’ve been giving to others. Are you applying it to your own life?
Imagine speaking to someone who is living a life identical to yours.
What advice would you give them? Now, follow that advice yourself.

Take a moment to journal your thoughts and see what insights arise. 

PS: Make sure to visit our upcoming events.

Until next time,
Barbara

Combat NEWS APNEA and Regain Your Calm

Amid today's "foot in mouth" epidemic, it's crucial to address an emerging issue: NEWS APNEA. This term, which I first encountered a decade ago as EMAIL APNEA in an article by Linda Stone, refers to the tendency to hold our breath while awaiting "charged" emails, text messages, or updates from our devices. We often find ourselves tensing up when technology doesn't move quickly enough or delivers unwelcome messages.

This reaction isn't limited to technology alone. It also occurs when we're exposed to distressing news, leading to what I call NEWS APNEA. When this happens, our bodies release stress chemicals like norepinephrine and testosterone, making it difficult to think clearly and communicate effectively. Our emotions can spiral out of control, leading to physical tension and difficulty relaxing. This often results in behaviors like binge-watching Netflix, overeating, over-drinking, over-medicating, overspending, and poor sleep.

I've created a video to help you navigate these challenges and regain your center. Watch it below to learn practical strategies for overcoming NEWS APNEA.

In addition to the video, I offer a variety of tools to help you stay calm, focused, and achieve greater happiness and success. Work with me privately or in a group, explore my audio downloads and magical aromatherapy sprays, which I use in my personal rituals. Many of these sprays are crafted from ancient aromatherapy recipes I've discovered in my travels.

Take control of your stress and enhance your well-being today.
Stay strong and take care of yourself!

PS Make sure to check out our upcoming events.

Until next time,
Barbara

A Personal Story + Ritual for Overcoming Fear

Many years ago as I was standing on the top of a hill, in Aspen Colorado,  I looked down at the tent classrooms set up for the various workshops taking place for John Denver’s symposium Choices for the Future.  I was told that my space was down the hill to the right. Slowly I walked down the hill feeling more and more anxiety. It was my first big event and I was on the program with amazing and accomplished speakers such as former Vice President Al Gore and Chief Oren Lyons.

There was a huge circle of chairs set up for my presentation. I could feel the pressure to be successful intensify. After checking the microphone, I sat down to prepare for my talk. My heart was beating out of control, my hands were clammy, and my mouth was as dry as grains of sand. I felt like I was losing it! Totally out of control. I felt like throwing up. It was just what I wanted and worked for. So, why did I feel sick to my stomach?

I saw people begin to walk down the hill, but then turned to join other workshops. I began to panic. What if no one came? The organizers would think I was a failure. No one would ever invite me to speak again. Why did I say I would come here?

Then a strong voice inside me told me to ground to the earth. I did a grounding ritual that I had been taught by a Native American Shaman. 

I slowly imagined a grounding chord leaving the base of my spine  moving deep into the Earth. It began to root like a large tree. I could feel the roots spreading out going deep into the earth and connecting me with the heart of Mother Earth. The roots turned silver and gold and began to vibrate with a powerful energy. All my anxiety dropped down through the roots into the earth. It was as if I unplugged a stuck pipe.

Then I began to breathe up this warm, solid, grounded earth energy.  I could feel it moving up through my roots, warm brown earth energy. It moved up into the soles of my feet, up my legs and thighs, filling my entire body.

Slowly I began to feel supported…knowing I was not alone. I became clearer and calmer. I opened my eyes and asked Spirit for a sign. Just as I finished praying I saw an eagle circling over me. That is when I knew Spirit was guiding me. No, I am not making this up. 

Hearing footsteps, I turned around and saw groups of women coming down the hill towards me. It was as if I was a magnet, and they were being pulled into the circle. By the time we started we had almost 75 amazing women of all ages in our circle.

What came to me that day (a recurring theme that would later play out in a variety of ways) was the realization that stepping into something new made me feel vulnerable and unsure of myself.  I was supremely confident in my old role, but now that I was being called to be “bigger” I felt like a young kid on her first day at a new school.  I suddenly had to prove myself to myself again, and that critical voice in my head was filling my mind with negative chatter.

I used this as a teaching moment and shared it with the group. The response was overwhelming. As I shared my own vulnerability, it created a safe space and gave permission for others to express their deepest fears and blocks.

In this time of major change and transition, naming and sharing our concerns with each other, then participating in rituals that ground and center us is a key to moving forward. These practices help us center ourselves and find the strength to move forward.

For this reason, I am thrilled to announce that I will be launching a new course, Rituals for Change and Transition (working title), this Fall. This course is designed to provide you with the tools you need to create meaningful rituals for yourself and your community.

I welcome any specific topics you'd like to see covered in the course, so please don't hesitate to reach out with your suggestions (simply reply to this email). Additionally, I am available for one-on-one and group rituals to support your journey.

Until next time,
Barbara

Embracing Internal Freedom for a Better Future

As we reflect on the concept of freedom, both individually and collectively, it's clear that our internal freedom from the past is crucial for creating the world we desire. I understand that many of us, myself included, feel overwhelmed at this time in History, however here is my strategy for moving forward.

1. Remember the Power of a Single Day

• What you do every day creates your future.

• Focus on each moment and do your best in every moment.

• Take time to express gratitude for what you have. Gratitude builds more gratitude.

2. Embrace Small, Incremental Improvements

• Small improvements make a huge difference over time.

• Believe in yourself and become your own best champion.

3. The Importance of Forgiveness

• To be truly free, it is crucial to forgive yourself and others.

• Forgiveness does not condone past actions but releases the hold of anger, bitterness, guilt, shame, sadness, and resentment.

• Holding on to bitterness is like consciously deciding to drink poison.

4. Taking Positive Actions

• Love and be loved.

• Be true to yourself.

• Strive to do better and be better.

• Share your gifts and talents with the world.

• Step up and take positive action in the world.

If you find it difficult to forgive, seek professional help. Choose to be free and make the conscious decision to live a life filled with love, authenticity, and positive action.

Make sure to check out our upcoming events.

Until next time,
Barbara

How Rituals Can Transform Your Life

Thursday night’s Summer Solstice Ceremony affirmed for me how crucial coming together in community is. Men and women from the US, Europe, Canada, and other countries came together to release old stuck energy and open to new possibilities. It was magical.

I am convinced that the need for ceremony is embedded deep within our DNA. By reclaiming ritual in our lives, we reclaim our power, enhance our transitions, strengthen our connections to others, and move into wholeness. Engaging in ritual allows our minds to expand, our moods to change, and our spirits to rise.

I am always amazed when I am with a group of people, no matter where in the world, how eager they are to engage in ceremonial practices, even if they have never done anything like it before. Many have already manifested their visions!

If you haven’t done it already, now is the time to make a sacred vow to yourself.

Create Your Own Ritual

Find a Quiet Space: Take some quiet time where you will not be disturbed.

1. Set Your Intention: Think of the qualities that you would like to enhance in your life.

2. Craft Your Symbol: Take a piece of red or gold string and tie 5 knots in it. Each knot should represent one quality you want to embody.

3. Wear Your Intention: Tie the string on your wrist and wear it until it falls off naturally.

Join Us for Transformative Ceremonies

I invite you to join me in creating and experiencing powerful rituals that can transform your life. Whether you are new to rituals or looking to deepen your practice, our community is here to support you. 

Share this newsletter with friends, follow me on IG and LinkedIn and help us build a vibrant community of individuals committed to living with intention and purpose.

Until next time,
Barbara

Discover Summer Magic: Fall in Love with Life 🌻

Can’t you feel it? We are now in the "Full Moon" phase of the year when the waxing energies and magical potency are at peak intensity.

Weddings, marriage proposals and baby blessings are lucky now, as are rituals of unity among families and communities. The energy is ripe with abundance on all levels.
 
The holiday of Midsummer [also known as "Litha"] marks the height of the waxing season; a time of peak fertility when the Sun is honored with three days of celebration! It is a time of both reflection, discovery and clear visioning for the future.
 
Midsummer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere marks the longest day of the year when the light is at the very peak of its power. Nature is in bloom and traditionally, cultures around the world have seen summer as a celebration of the strength and fertility of Mother Earth and of other goddesses who represent the Divine Feminine. Allow the Divine Mother to support you in getting your needs met.

Fall in Love with Life

Remember the feeling of a new love?  Everything looks vibrant and alive, like Technicolor.

Practice falling in love with your life.  Bring dancing, laughter, and music into your life. Pay attention to the flowers around you. Delight in the colors. Let yourself smile and express joy. 

Notice the children playing in your neighborhood. Let their joy infect you. Hop on a swing in the park, skip down the street, jump in a puddle of water. Get some finger paints and just go wild. Crank up the dance music and move your body.

Make a commitment to yourself to embrace and receive love and joy. Give yourself a big hug and say, “I love you!”

The more you practice feeling joyful, the more joy you will experience. Expand your capacity to receive love and joy. Like any new skill, the more you practice, the better you will get at it. So, start right now.

Midsummer Magical Herbs

Many herbs are used in summer rituals: they can be made into incense or used to anoint candles. On the summer solstice, some are thrown into the bonfires for good luck and health. They can also be sewn into a charm bag and worn or carried when needed.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Fennel- confidence, longevity and courage
St. john’s/Joan’s wort- Courage, confidence, magic, success
Lily- peace, heal the pain of a broken heart
Frankincense- All-purpose solar incense, for consecration, spirituality and success.
Chickweed- love herb worn to attract love
Heather- Brings one in touch with inner beauty and divinity
Lavender-  Love, harmony, domestic tranquility, and mental clarity.
Mugwort- Magic, longevity, clairvoyance, psychic empowerment.
Rose- Love, compassion, beauty; an aphrodisiac attributed to Venus.
Vervain- Love, magic, aphrodisiac, consecration

And of course, my LOVE SPRAY AND HAPPINESS SPRAY.

PS: Make sure to check out my upcoming events.

Until next time,
Barbara

The Power of Social Interaction + In Person Summer Events 🌞

Dear friend, are you craving real connection?

Although the intense threat of Covid seems to have lessened, many people are simply out of the habit of connecting in person. It’s time, as my friends at Daybreaker call it, to end the loneliness epidemic.

The Power of Social Interaction. Social interaction is essential for your brain health. Whether you are an extrovert or an introvert, being with others builds a sense of safety, belonging, and security. Social interactions are basic needs, like eating, drinking, and breathing.

Take the First Step. You can start by reaching out to one person this week and making a date to meet in person: go for a walk, get a cup of tea, or visit an art show. Maybe it’s time to start a book club or get together for a monthly potluck. This week, stretch beyond your personal comfort level- whatever that means to you.

Expand Your Community. Many of you know that I speak to everyone. I love being just one degree of separation away from amazing connections. Here’s what happened to me in the past 10 days:

1. In a random conversation, I discovered that the person having PT next to me is singer Brooke Moriber, and she is writing a song with my friend Madeline Stone.

2. On a plane to Florida, I found out that the woman sitting next to me had just attended the same event (Women Funding the World) that I had gone to and had met my dear friend Lavinia Errico, founder of MoveJoy. We already have plans to get together in NYC!

I am a huge believer in the synchronicities of the Universe. I could write a book on the countless synchronicities that have graced my life. Each one has enriched my experiences and broadened my horizons, adding a touch of magic to my everyday existence. These moments of divine alignment reveal that there are infinite possibilities in the world, available to us if we remain open to receiving them.

Join Me in Person. My intention is to do more in-person events, and I invite you to join me. Let’s reconnect and rejuvenate together:

• Summer Solstice Celebration in NYC on June 20th.

• A One-Day Retreat in Stamford, CT, in July. 

Visit the Events page to learn more.

Looking forward to seeing you in person soon!

Until next time,
Barbara

What the Gemini New Moon Wants You To Know 🌚

On Sunday I attended a delightful picnic and treasure hunt in Central Park, sponsored by Fellow Human, an organization that believes in the power of humans to flourish. You can learn more about their inspiring work at seefellowhuman.com.

In true Renoir, Manet, and Seurat style, we were invited to dress in our most elegant, comfortably chic attire, complete with straw hats. It was a feast for the senses, starting with an intriguing treasure hunt that led us to a secret picnic spot. The event promised live music, festive games, and moments of joyous revelry, and it did not disappoint!

Pretending to be someone else, even for a day, can shift your perspective and open new energies for connection, learning, and simply enjoying nature. This experience was a reminder of the power of play and the importance of balancing our lives with moments of joy and relaxation.

As we move into the Gemini New Moon on Thursday, let's remember that Gemini is the original energizer bunny: always active, curious, and eager to share new information. To do this effectively, we must refine our communication patterns to align with our deepest values.

This New Moon is a time of reflection, renovation, and restoration. We are entering a profound period of change, witnessing our past, present, and future selves. Use this time to express your inner visionary and ask yourself: How am I being the energizer bunny I am meant to be?

Ritual for the Gemini New Moon:

Create an Affirmation:

Craft an affirmation that holds the energy of your ability to communicate effectively. Here are a few examples:

• I am the one who speaks my truth in a way that others can listen.

• I am the one who loves to communicate new ideas.

• I am the one who shares healing stories.

• My voice can heal my heart and heal others.

• I am able to use my power of communication to empower and enlighten people all over the planet.

Tell Your Story:

Let your own voice fill the world. Risk disapproval. Say the words and make it so.

PS: Make sure to check out my Upcoming Events.

Until next time,
Barbara

Embrace the Art of Balance: Finding Joy in Work, Play, and Everything In Between

After spending a wonderful, chill Memorial Day Weekend with my girlfriends, I'm finding it challenging to jump back into my work routine. At first, I tried to force myself to “get focused,” but then I realized that there is a time for everything.

Balance is the key to a fulfilling life. It’s not just about finding time to work, but also about embracing moments of play, connection, and reflection. As we navigate our busy lives, it’s essential to remember the wisdom in these simple, yet profound words:

Take Time

Take time to work. It is the price of success.
Take time to think, It is the source of power.
. Take time to play, It is the secret of perpetual youth.
Take time to be friendly, It is the road to happiness.
Take time to love and be loved, It is a privilege of the Gods.
Take time to share, Life is too short to be selfish.
Take time to laugh, Laughter is the music of the soul.
— Author Unknown

To these timeless words, I would add:
Take time to exercise, It is medicine for the body and soul.
Take time to be in nature, It is the key to renewal and grounding.
Take time to meditate and connect to the Divine, It is your source for everything.
Take time for yourself. You are precious and deserve it.

As we move forward this week, let’s embrace the art of balance. Each moment we take care for ourselves, connect with others, and find joy in both work and play, we cultivate a life that is rich and fulfilling.

Remember, it’s not about doing everything at once, but about finding harmony in the ebb and flow of our daily lives. So, take a deep breath, smile, and allow yourself the grace to find balance in all that you do. Wishing you a week filled with balance, joy, and abundance!

PS: Make sure to check out my Upcoming Events.

Until next time,
Barbara

Embracing Transitions: Honoring the Past to Create a Bright Future 🦋

As we journey through life, our paths often lead us to new and exciting places. These transitions, whether moving to a new home, starting a new business, or ending a relationship, are profound moments of change. One crucial aspect often overlooked in these times is the power of rituals of transition. These rituals honor the past and open the door to new opportunities with grace and intention.

This week, I had the privilege of flying down to Florida to perform a goodbye ritual for a dear friend. After 33 wonderful years in Florida, she is embarking on a new adventure in another state. This move is a significant leap into the unknown, requiring courage, trust, and the support of a loving community to navigate.

While I love blessing new homes and businesses, it is equally essential to express gratitude for what we leave behind. Acknowledging the past is a rite of passage that honors the journey we've taken and makes room for new possibilities to emerge. Before stepping into the new, take a moment to reflect on your experiences, the lessons learned, and the people who have supported you.

If you're leaving a home, consider leaving a small token of gratitude. I personally like to bury a crystal in the land, symbolizing appreciation and connection. Even in an apartment building, you can make an offering to the land it stands on, grounding your farewell in a tangible act of thanks.

This week, as we enter the Full Moon in Sagittarius, we are given an extra boost of energy to focus on what truly matters and to take decisive action. This full moon blesses us with infinite possibilities and the courage to embrace them.

Remember, honoring the past is not just about looking back; it's about paving the way for a future filled with growth, joy, and new beginnings. Let's embrace these rituals of transition and step confidently into the next chapter of our lives.

Until next time,
Barbara

The Power of 8 Minutes: A Lesson in True Support 👐

In a world bustling with distractions, it's easy to overlook the quiet cries for help hidden behind a facade of "I'm okay." Yet, as Simon Sinek eloquently illustrates in a recent video shared by my friend Catherine, sometimes all it takes is eight minutes to make a world of difference.

Sinek recounts a poignant story about a friend navigating turbulent waters, unbeknownst to him. It wasn't until she mustered the courage to reveal her struggles that he realized the depth of her pain. Together, they devised a simple yet profound code: "Do you have 8 minutes?" A beacon of vulnerability amidst the noise, this phrase became a lifeline, signaling the need for genuine connection and support.

Reflecting on this, I couldn't help but recall a moment of my own vulnerability. When I found myself alone in the emergency room after a bike accident, broken wrist throbbing with pain, I brushed off offers of company with a dismissive "I'm okay." In truth, I longed for the comfort of a friend's presence, a shoulder to lean on in the midst of uncertainty.

How often do we mask our true emotions behind the veil of stoicism, denying ourselves the solace we so desperately crave? How many times have we uttered those two deceptive words, "I'm okay," when our hearts are heavy with unspoken burdens?

But what if we dared to break the silence? What if, instead of feigning strength, we extended an invitation for genuine connection? "Do you have 8 minutes?" A simple question, yet laden with the weight of authenticity and vulnerability. Eight minutes to listen, to empathize, to share in the rawness of human experience.

So let us embrace the power of eight minutes—a testament to the profound impact of true support. Let us pledge to look beyond the surface, to heed the silent cries for help that echo in the spaces between words. And let us remember that, in a world starved for connection, sometimes all it takes is eight minutes to change a life.

Until next time,
Barbara

Unlocking Abundance: Harnessing the New Moon Energy of Taurus 🌙✨

Today, the cosmos gifts us with a powerful celestial event: the New Moon in Taurus. Aligned with our deepest desires regarding money, resources, love, and pleasure, this cosmic alignment beckons us to delve into the depths of our values. It's an invitation to reassess how we perceive our own worth and how we treat ourselves as the invaluable gems that we are. Remember, your value doesn't hinge on external validation but emanates from within.

Let's dive into a transformative New Moon ritual:

Part One: Embrace Forgiveness. Take a moment to reflect on past financial decisions, how you've treated your body, and any actions you took that were not loving and kind towards yourself. Then, with compassion and grace, pen a letter of forgiveness to yourself. Acknowledge any mistakes, release any guilt, and fill in the blanks: "I forgive myself for..." Once completed, seal it in an envelope addressed to "The Angel of Liberation" and mail it away, symbolizing your willingness to release past burdens and embrace a new chapter of abundance.

Part Two: Sow Seeds of Intention. As you embark on this journey of self-love and empowerment, plant seeds in the earth to symbolize your newfound intentions. Whether it's for prosperity, love,  pleasure, vitality, or joy, let these seeds serve as tangible reminders of the abundance you are manifesting in your life.

As we embrace the energy of this New Moon in Taurus and look ahead to the blessings of May, may we awaken to our inherent worth and abundance.

 With love and light,
Barbara

Embrace the Joy of May: Celebrating Beltane and New Beginnings 🌸

May 1st beckons us with its promise of new beginnings and abundant fertility. Across cultures, this day marks the joyful onset of summer, teeming with vibrant celebrations of life, love, and renewal.

Welcome to the month of May, where the air is ripe with the energy of fertility and boundless possibilities. It is a time when the spirit of Mother Mary whispers healing and heart-opening blessings upon us all.

One of my favorite ways to honor this season is through the ancient tradition of Beltane or May Day. This fiery festival ignites our senses with bonfires, dancing around the Maypole, and an exuberant outpouring of primal energy. Originally symbolizing the union of masculine and feminine energies, the Maypole stands tall amidst a riot of colors and laughter, weaving a tapestry of joy and fertility.

Years ago, I embraced this tradition by crafting my own Maypole, a beacon of celebration perched atop my roof. I was teaching a class in spirituality for a group of young children, so this fit in perfectly. As the children danced around it, their laughter and movement adorned the sky with a quilt of colors, a testament to the vibrancy of spring and the abundance of life. And the adults had a great time too. Watch our joyful celebration unfold here!

Beltane is a time to honor the sacred union of Earth and sky, where offerings of gratitude usher in blessings of health, fertility, and abundance. From the ancient Celts driving cattle through balefire smoke to the Romans adorning their hair with flowers, each tradition echoes the timeless rhythm of nature's fertility.

BELTANE RITUAL

Let us embrace the spirit of giving by sharing flowers adorned with ribbons, each carrying wishes for the season ahead. Give them to friends, family and strangers. This act of kindness harkens back to the early peace marches in New York, where daffodils were symbols of hope and unity for a better world.

You can also write wishes for the season on cards or stones and give these out as well. And remember, as the morning dew kisses your face, it bestows upon you the beauty and vitality of the season, a gentle reminder of the magic that surrounds us.

As we welcome early summer's warmth and vitality, (in the northern Hemisphere) may we dance with joy, embrace new beginnings, and nurture the seeds of fertility within our hearts and minds.

With love and blessings,
Barbara

Embrace Freedom, Connect with Earth: Join Us in Building Bridges

How do we celebrate freedom when so many are enslaved? How do we honor the Earth in the face of destruction?

In these challenging times, the answer lies in coming together to build bridges of connection. We are the custodians of the Earth, entrusted with the responsibility to treat our planet and each other with respect and gratitude.

Recently, we gathered for a Passover Seder where we embarked on a journey of reflection and renewal. We began with a moment of meditation, opening our hearts to compassion and understanding. Each person broke off a piece of matzah, symbolizing our collective pain and sadness, yet also our resilience and strength.

As we blessed these broken pieces with love and peace, we reaffirmed our commitment to healing ourselves and the world around us. We shared our visions for Earth's restoration and pledged to take meaningful action, whether it be reducing plastic waste, volunteering in our communities, or planting trees.

This spirit of connection and action extends beyond our gatherings. I invite you to join me on transformative journeys to ancient lands and cultures. On April 27th, we will explore ancient Egyptian rituals at the Metropolitan Museum, connecting with timeless wisdom and practices. Then, on September 29th, we embark on a spiritual journey to India, delving into its rich traditions and teachings.

These experiences offer more than just travel; they provide opportunities for personal growth, resilience, and connection with like-minded individuals. Together, we can deepen our spiritual understanding and cultivate true abundance in our lives.

If you long for community and seek spiritual resources to enrich your journey, I invite you to join us. Let's celebrate freedom, honor the Earth, and embrace the transformative power of connection.

Until next time,
Barbara

Cultivating Connection: Nurturing Spiritual Community

Today, I want to express my deep gratitude for the invaluable treasure of spiritual community. It's the heartbeat of our journey, a sanctuary where souls converge, and hearts find solace. I'm thrilled to share that I'll be expanding our circle with a range of offerings, blending the sacredness of in-person gatherings with the accessibility of online platforms. Together, we'll embark on transformative workshops, immersive retreats, and soul-stirring spiritual journeys, including an upcoming odyssey to the mystical lands of India.

But beyond the events and destinations, what truly enriches our shared path is the essence of togetherness. Once a month, my cherished friends and I gather, spanning decades of shared experiences since the vibrant 80s. We're a diverse tapestry of spiritual teachers, trauma specialists, artists, and playwrights, woven together by bonds that transcend time and space.

In our sacred gatherings, we hold space for each other and for the world. We come with open hearts, ready to share our pains, sorrows, joys, and triumphs. Amidst the storms of life, it's easy to feel adrift and alone. Yet, in the warmth of communal embrace, we find healing and restoration. Together, we transform wounds into wisdom, tears into hope, and fear into courage.

This sacred communion is my beacon of hope, illuminating the darkest corners of my being. It softens the edges of self-critique, fostering compassion and acceptance within. As I learn to love and embrace myself, flaws and all, I extend the same grace to others, fostering a culture of empathy and non-judgment.

Moreover, I am deeply blessed to be part of multiple spiritual communities, each contributing its unique essence to the tapestry of my journey. Through these diverse circles of friends and colleagues, I continue to grow, learn, and evolve, enriching my spiritual path with varied perspectives and shared wisdom.

As we journey forward, let us continue to nurture these sacred bonds, for in our collective strength lies the power to transform ourselves and the world.

And remember the wise words of Thich Nhat Hanh: "The Buddha of the future is the sangha” (sangha can refer to any community of like-minded individuals who support each other in their pursuit of common goals, whether spiritual or otherwise.

Until next time,
Barbara