From our inbox to you From: DailyOm on experiencing a Retreat…

SGC Admin: From our inbox to you From: DailyOm on experiencing a Retreat…

October 20, 2015
Retreat
Going Away to Go Within

by Madisyn Taylor

Zen yoga woman doing meditation on beach - wellness concept. Female silhouette relaxing sitting at sunset background meditating at ocean retreat. Summer orange sunrise sky. Stock Photo - 37924086
http://www.123rf.com: Copyright : maridav

Going on retreat is a time to cocoon so that we may emerge ready to return to our lives with a new perspective.

Occasionally, we need to pause – and step away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. One way to do this is to get away from our daily life and go on retreat. Far more than a vacation, a retreat offers us time to ourselves to rest, heal, reflect, and renew our spirit. It is a time to cocoon so that we may emerge renewed, refreshed, and ready to return to our everyday lives with a new perspective. A retreat gives us time for uninterrupted meditation so that we may go deep within and spend time with ourselves.

A retreat may offer quiet, solitude, and sometimes even silence. Retreats often take place in humble dwellings with simple fare so that our senses may be reawakened to the beauty of unadorned tastes and the sights and sounds of nature. When we spend days in contemplation, we can more easily hear our heart when it speaks to us. We also are able to really listen when a bird sings, deeply breathe in the smell of flowers, grass, or earth, and delight in a soft breeze blowing on our cheek. When we go on retreat we have time to connect to the sacred geometry of a labyrinth, discover epiphanies through asanas, or take a long, reflective walk through the woods where we can give each step our full attention.

Without the pull of deadlines, relationships, the Internet, or other media, we give ourselves time to go deep into our own solitude where we can fully reflect on our joys, sorrows, and fears, owning and releasing them as needed. We may even come to know and understand our life path more deeply. Hopefully, when we return home, we can take a little bit of this time alone back with us and create the space for deep reflection on a daily basis. We also may come back to our life renewed and ready to take on the world. The beauty of going on retreat is that no matter where you go or how long you stay, you’ll always meet yourself when you get there.

New Links and Connections Added: Angela’s Place… Meditation/Healing through a combination of Therapeutic Touch and Reiki.

Image property of Angela’s Place October 2015

Angela’s Place (Meditative Healing) is brand new, and folk are invited to check it out it at the introductory offer of…

$20:00 for a 40 minute session.. 

Angela’s Place Offers … 

  • Come rejuvenate your mind & body through meditation healing.
  • Healing created through a combination of Therapeutic Touch and Reiki.
    In a harmonized room with gentle scents & music .
  • Warm blankets and Mother Earth Stones are waiting to help with your healing .

Please Contact: Angela @ 905-442-0466 or Click Here to visit her Face Book page… :) 

 

The Moon & Astrology; how it affects our daily life: Transiting Moon In Leo November 2015

The Moon and Astrology

How it affects our daily lives… 

In astrology, the moon is connected to our emotions and reactions… how we are feeling on a given day may well be influenced by the sign that is visiting the moon… Each sign stays with the moon for up to 2.5 days…. :) 

The Moon Void-off-Course: 

There are times throughout the month when the moon is not fully immersed in any sign… this is when we say the moon is Void off Course… and when this occurs, we may feel “foggy” and “unfocused” … We may not be sure how we are truly feeling about a situation or a person…. Therefore it is not recommended that we make long-term commitments or important decision’s while the moon is Void off Course…. However there are 4 signs in the zodiac which may prove positive during the Void-off-Course moon… 

Good for Void-Off-Course Moon:

These v/c signs may prove to be quite productive times.

  • Cancer
  • Taurus
  • Sagittarius
  • Pisces…

Opportunity Periods  (thanks to astrologer Jim Shawvan):

There are other periods throughout the month that are known as opportunity periods, when it can prove to be a positive time for most people, however if you have challenging aspects happening within your own chart you may not be able to make use of opportunity periods. 

Thanks to Jim Shawvan present day astrologer, William Lilly 17th century astrologer and Llewellyn’s Daily Planetary Guide for opportunity periods.

Present Moon Sign/Phase/House:

Leo zodiac sign Stock Vector - 45500337
http://www.123rf.com: Copyright : kisslilly
  • Date: November 2 to 4 2015
  • Moon Sign: Leo 10:48 am (ET) 7:48 am (PT) 
  • Moon Phase: 3rd
  • Void-off-Course: November 3 @ 8:46 pm (ET) 5:46 pm (PT) to November 4 @ 9:22 pm (ET) 6:22 pm (PT). Leo Moon v/c is not one of the 4 “good signs”
  • House(s): 9th house of higher knowledge and travel
  • Opportunity Period: November 3 @12:28 pm (ET) 9:28 am (PT) to 8:46 pm (ET) 5:46 pm (PT)

What does it all mean?

  • The Leo Moon Loves Drama, so be warned… 
  • The Leo Moon loves to noticed and recognized, so be prepared to “pump up” your loved ones and if you happened to have a Leo influence in yourself, be aware of how you may be going about getting recognized or appreciated… If you play your cards right this could be a positive time when you get to be where you need to be.
  • Try not to be overly “vain” and be prepared for drama at any-time from any direction
  • Try not to over react and if it’s not you doing the over reacting, try not to get caught up in the drama, or to encourage the over reactor
  • It’s a good time to check out the local talent, take in a down town show, get starry-eyed with your lover, or perhaps look for a new one, as romance is high on the priority ladder during this time. 
  • Might prove positive for hair cuts, make overs. 
  • In the 9th house: Leo can have some fun here, its time to take in a good movie or check out what’s on at the theater… It’s also a good time to learn or expand our knowledge base through conversations with others…
  • This moon period will affect everyone, but more so those who have the following in their charts: And those who have a strong Capricorn or Aquarius placement in their charts. 
    • Moon in Leo:
    • Sun in Leo:  
    • Moon in Aquarius
    • Sun in Aquarius
    • Moon in the 9th house
    • Moon in the 5th house 
    • Aspects to the moon, Sun or Uranus
    • Ascendant in Leo
    • Mid-heaven in Leo

     

copyright: Greta McKenzie Astrology, 10/30/2015

From our inbox to you from… News from Author and vibrational sound teacher Dawn James… check out the fabulous 3 day women’s conference in Mexico (2016)

SGC Admin: From our inbox to you From Dawn James… Check out the latest news from this lovely and talented lady… :)

heart or love icons and hand as tree - concept vector. This graphic also represents harmony & peace, spreading love, empathy and compassion Stock Vector - 30678275
http://www.123rf.com:Copyright : mnsanthoshkumar
Hi There… :)


Lao Tzu is the author of– Tao Te Ching.  It contains many words of wisdom about life, introspection, reflection, personal discovery and natural laws.

Here are just 7 of my favorite life changing lessons expressed by Lao Tzu- along with my personal insights/reflections on each of them.

1. The world is won by those who let it go. 

“By letting it go it all gets done. The world is won by those who let it go. But when you try and try. The world is beyond the winning.” ~ Lao Tzu
“Therefore the Master acts without doing anything and teaches without saying anything. Things arise and she lets them come; things disappear and she lets them go. She has but doesn’t possess, acts but doesn’t expect. When her work is done, she forgets it. That is why it lasts forever.” ~ Lao Tzu
“He who clings to his work will create nothing that endures.” ~ Lao Tzu

To me this means compassionate detachment. When you give without expecting anything in return, then you are able to freely give – from the heart.

2. Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom.

“Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.” ~ Lao Tzu

One of the most profound statements is : Know Thyself .
I think it takes great courage to look at yourself with honesty and great awareness to see the many characteristics we possess.

3. At the center of your being you have the answer to all life’s questions.

“At the center of your being you have the answer; you know who you are and you know what you want.” ~ Lao Tzu

This statement really resonates with my motto: All you need is within you

4. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.
“If you realize that you have enough, you are truly rich.” ~ Lao Tzu
“Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.” ~ Lao Tzu

Being/Feeling rich or poor is a state of mind. I have seen kids playing in the streets with a ball – full of joy and having fun, and I have also seen children with rooms full of gidgets and gadgets complaining to their parents ‘‘I am bored”. It’s all a state of mind. You are as rich as you feel.

5. Non-being is the greatest joy.

“Health is the greatest possession. Contentment is the greatest treasure. Confidence is the greatest friend. Non-being is the greatest joy.” ~ Lao Tzu

I read this a few times and reflected on how we are socialized to give ourselves ‘labels’ – such as mother, husband, writer, sister, son, poet, and practitioner. But have you ever stopped and asked yourself – who are you without the ‘labels’? Who are you without your name (which you were given by the way).  Non being to me means to remember your true essence , without the ‘labels’, hats  you wear or roles that you play.  Just be.

6. If you realize that all things change, there is nothing you will try to hold on to.

“If you realize that all things change, there is nothing you will try to hold on to. If you are not afraid of dying, there is nothing you cannot achieve.” ~ Lao Tzu

This statement reminds me of a Native saying: ” when you live in the natural giving and receiving of life, stress does not exist. “ When we allow things to unfold and flow freely, without resistance, without strife- knowing that nothing lasts forever, we reduce inner turmoil, anxiety and suffering.

7. Be good to all.

“Treat those who are good with goodness, and also treat those who are not good with goodness. Thus goodness is attained. Be honest to those who are honest, and be also honest to those who are not honest. Thus honesty is attained.” ~ Lao Tzu

Kindness can be contagious! By choosing to be good, and speak and think positively, we can create a ripple affect (laws of vibration) to influence others to do the same. Try it and see the results!
 

What’s new with Dawn

Enjoying my first grand child who turns one year old next month.  It’s a joy and blessing to see the world through his eyes. Thanks to my daughter and son in law – here is my NEW NICK NAME  
 

Live your Best Life – are you ready?

Live Your Best Life!
3-Day Women’s Conference & Retreat March 2016 (Isla Mujeres)

Be inspired, feed your mind, nurture your body, uplift your soul and Live Your Best Life! You will experience all of this and more during the 3+ day Women’s conference and retreat. Daily keynote addresses, interactive workshops, choice of movement sessions, and fun socials make-up this “crazy amazing” and “life-affirming experience.”

Save your seat today and be among us March 3 – 6, 2016.

Here’s where event takes place ( Mia Reef Resort)

CONTACT ME for more information on this 3-Day Women’s conference & retreat

Location: Isla Mujeres (Island of Women) Mexico

Most of you know I LOVE to hibernate or write during the winter, and this year is no exception.  I look forward to speaking and hopefully seeing you again in 2016.

The Moon and Astrology: How it affects our daily life… Transiting Moon in Cancer (2)… October 2015:

The Moon and Astrology

&

HOW IT AFFECTS OUR DAILY LIVES… 

In astrology, the moon is connected to our emotions and reactions… how we are feeling on a given day may well be influenced by the sign that is visiting the moon… Each sign stays with the moon for up to 2.5 days…. :) 

The Moon Void-off-Course: 

There are times throughout the month when the moon isn’t fully immersed in any sign… this is when we say the moon is Void off Course… and when this occurs, we may feel “foggy” and “unfocused” … We may not be sure how we are truly feeling about a situation or a person…. Therefore it is not recommended that we make long-term commitments or important decision’s while the moon is Void off Course…. However there are 4 signs in the zodiac which may prove positive during the Void-off-Course moon… 

Good for Void-Off-Course Moon:

These v/c signs may prove to be quite productive times.

  • Cancer
  • Taurus
  • Sagittarius
  • Pisces…

Opportunity Periods  (thanks to astrologer Jim Shawvan):

There are other periods throughout the month that are known as opportunity periods, when it can prove to be a positive time for most people, however if you have challenging aspects happening within your own chart you may not be able to make use of opportunity periods. 

Thanks to Jim Shawvan present day astrologer, William Lilly 17th century astrologer and Llewellyn’s Daily Planetary Guide for opportunity periods.

Present Moon Sign/Phase/House:

Portrait of red haired girl representing Cancer zodiac sign Stock Vector - 35595803
http://www.123rf.com: Copyright : kakigori
  • Date: October 31 to November 2 2015
  • Moon Sign: Cancer @ 5:09 am (ET):2:09 am (PT)
  • Moon Phase: 3rd
  • Void-off-Course: November 1 @ 10:35 pm (ET) 7:35 pm (PT) to November 2 @ 10:48 am (ET): 7:48 am (PT)
  • House(s): 9th & 10th: 9th house of travel and higher learning. House of ambition, career and organizing. 
  • Opportunity Period: November 1 11:53 am (ET) 8:53 am (PT) to November 2 @ 10:48 am (ET): 7:48 am (PT). Pleasure is on our mind.. but don’t forget to think clearly when its needed. 

What does it all mean?

  • The moon is happy in the sign of Cancer because she rules here. Being sympathetic towards the worries of others is easier, we are more empathetic now. 
  • We can be more nurturing when there is a cancer moon
  • Domestic chores and responsibilities may be easier to do now, in fact some of us may be very happy making our home comfortable and safe
  • Cooking may be fun to do now,  so go ahead and try out that new recipe
  • The more emotionally sensitive of us, may take offense or feel slighted or more vulnerable during the Cancer moon… Caution is advised though, check your facts before you “accuse”. 
  • Some of us may feel needy, while others of us are happy to be the cuddler, helping our loved ones feel secure and in deed needed. Caution is advised that some of us can go over board on the needy thing during this moon period, so be careful if you don’t want to “scare” someone off… 
  • It’s a time for cuddles, caring, good food and just plain old lovings… :) Enjoy..
  • In the 9th house: A good time to learn something new, continue learning a new subject or working on a project… if you have been working hard of late, take a few hours out to enjoy yourself before the moon slips into the 10th house.
  • In the 10th house: Good for getting down to business, organizing or dealing with property issues. Don’t forget to smile and have a little bit of fun too… “all work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy” ;)
  • This moon sign will have more of an effect on those who have the following in their charts. 
  • Moon in Cancer: (these folk may really feel the influence of the moon, emotions may be close to the surface)
  • Ascendant in Cancer:
  • Sun in Cancer:
  • Sun in Capricorn
  • Moon in the 4th, 9th 10th house:
  • Aspects to the Moon or Capricorn
  • Ascendant or Mid-heaven in Cancer

 

 

 Copyright Greta McKenzie Astrology 09/30/2015