10 Ways to redefine success

Something tells you it is the moment to review and refine your version of success.  This term has different meanings to different people. Ever ask yourself why this topic comes to your attention right now?  Maybe you are in transition, reflecting on the nature of your accomplishments, feel restless about professional progress or unsure of your current longer term direction.  Whatever it is, the moment is right to devote some time to what success means to you.  Observe how your own version of success is changing with you. 

1. Is success about meeting a deadline?

2. Is success about goal-setting, planning, and working toward short-term goals? 

3. Is success about giving yourself  the freedom to to help others reach their version of success?

4. Is success a moving target, always reched for but rarely if ever achieved?

5. Is success about shadowing mentors/ inspirations or drawing their qualities out of yourself?

6.  Is success a state of mind that you nurture or train inside to carry with you?

7.  Is success finding ways to be happy where you are, to love something about what you do?

8. Is success about soul-searching? Finding that perfect relationship  or situation?

9. Is success some combination of the above?

10. Is success something else? 

"My definition of success is fulfillment of your soul's purpose." -Jack Canfield

Interview with Dr. Steven Farmer

Dr. Steven Farmer is founder of Earth Magic, a psycho-spiritual portal that invites people to tap into ancient wisdom for guidance, teaching, and healing. Visitors can explore psycho-spiritual treatments he offers. including; hypnosis, emotional freedom technique (EFT), somatic experiencing (SE), breathwork, soul retrieval, power animals, tools to heal ancestral patterns, oracle readings, and other approaches that empower you to see more deeply into true Self and why you exist.

Steven is an internationally-known teacher, and shamanic healer. He invites each of us to recognize and heal our illusions of separation that shape how we see and live in this world. He is also a best-selling author of many books and related products, including Animal Spirit Guide Cards and Earth Magic Oracle Cards.  His path is unique and he takes time-out to connect with me for this interview. 

I am honored to share this dialogue and trust it invites you to get in touch with and trust inner feelings you are ready to hear and allow to guide and accelerate your own evolution.

Please share what guided you into this unique modern, mystical path. 

Earlier in my life, I was a conventional psychotherapist with a very busy practice. In 2015, came my transition into hypnosis.   I gathered and used other tools like any professional who takes an interest in continuing education. Then, something happened within me, perhaps a shift in awareness. I knew I had to change my focus. The shamanistic path was unexpected.

So many people can relate. It is common to seek training in an area of expertise, get a job or develop a career around it, anchored in a world we come to outgrow.

That certainly describes my case. I came to feel I was missing something. Restlessness points to fear of letting go of the familliar. This echoes fear of losing what represents personal security. 

When ego-driven, this can feel like identity crisis or mid-life crisis.  For anyone who knows the feeling of inner turmoil, you show us what happens with surrender, choose to take steps into the unknown. Let us in on what you were secretly feeling.

Well, I was curious as I was not raised in a tribe with traditional shamans. Yet, I was guided by the unseen.  I had to trust in ways I had not trusted before. I had to let go of my own myths and find courage within to listen to something completely new.   It was scary, but it took 6 months to close down my therapy practice. That was hard, giving up a way of life. I had written 4 books as a therapist-Adult Children of Abusive Parents (recently renewed), but I sensed a new calling. 

What a heart-warming reminder we can all access soulful messages within if we allow ourselves to listen get out of our own way! So, what shaped your life shift?

Through meditation, I opened to intuition that guided me to trust and invest in external teachers. I also came to hear innner guides.  Among key milestones, I took a 2-day training with Tom Cowan, a visionary practitioner of Celtic healing traditions. His teacher was Michael Harner, creator of the Foundation for Shamanic Studies and the New Age practice of "Core Shamanism."

Harner is a legend. I have read his book, The Way of the Shaman: a Guide to Power and Healing. This is trail-blazing work that paved the way for the development of "core shamanism" in popular culture.  His recent passing leaves a timeless legacy.

I was also drawn to other teachers and trainings. I decided to be open to that. Hearing about mystical traditions,  learning from different teachers and shamans' practices;  this gave me practical rituals, sacred ceremonies, heartfelt clarity-a new sense of life direction.

A quote by Albert Einstein stands out: 

The most beautiful and profound emotion we can experience is the sensation of the mystical.  It is the sower of all true science.  He to whom this emotion is a stranger, who can no longer wonder and stand rapt in awe, is as good as dead.  To know that what is impenetrable to us really exists, manifesting itself as the highest wisdom and the most radiant beauty, which our dull faculties can comprehend only in their primitive forms… this knowledge, this feeling, is at the center of true religion.

Very relevant.  At some stage, it hits the truth can only be felt.  Its up to each of us to trust mystical sensations we cannot explain more and see where this trust takes us in our lives. 

Clearly a major shift was occurring inside you. Its as if your version of success and fulfillment were changing. What really stands out about your process?

Every life choice we make is part of unconscious healing. What makes sense to us at one stage of life may not feel right at other stages.  We have to find courage to embrace changing views of ourselves and success. Our life choices and self-talk reflect where we are at on our journey.

So true. Our sense of what matters changes.  The urge arises to seek guidance, let go of certain situations, relationships and activities.  Tell us how you view healing.

The ultimate healing is to see we are not separate from our own pieces. We are taught to live with a lack of consciousness of Spirit. At some stage it hits, we are each a conduit through which Spirit works. Everything is a conscious collaboration with awareness of the Spirit in all things: the more we awaken, allow intuition (Soul) to guide us, the more Spirit fills and takes shape through us.

I love that you imply no right or wrong choices exist. Many people second guess themselves and their urges to seek advice, teachings or to change paths.

Indeed. Some people abruptly change paths and lifestyes completely. Yet this would shock other people too much. Subtle changes or a slower pace can be perfect. Whatever feels right is the right change for you. 

As the saying goes,  the only thing that is constant in this world is change. We either resist it or go with it and whatever we resist seems to persist.

One's willingness to with the flow is perhaps the biggest lesson.

Another point you are suggesting is that revelations about callings also happen if one is never grounded in mainstream popular culture trends, boxes or categories.  

Indeed. There is no one way or standard experience to open the heart or to recognize it is always open. That is why everyone evolves and changes tack at one's own pace.

That certainly rings true.   As explored in posts like, Interview with Carlos Castenada, we are all shamans in our own right, exploring timelines and parallel worlds, awakening to our forgotten power.  The unique paths we choose and individuals we encounter are all teachers as we learn first hand the power of surrender. Power animals helps bring this into conscious awareness.

How is shamanism shaping wider human perception?

I see contemporary shamanism draws from principles, ancient knowledge and technologies that help awaken the world to the Earth elements to restore them to wholeness. We can be open to the messages in spirit animals and what they invite us to recognize and awaken within ourselves.

You write popular books about spirit animals and tips for understanding the messages of our own changing spirit guides. What is the biggest issue you see?

The number one issue humanity has is overpopulation.  We have to take care of each other and recognize this is really about loving ourselves more. Every experience we create and perceive points to accpting or rejecting true Self.   

This reminds me life is like food or medicine for the soul. Hippocrates, says Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.

Spirit medicine is another way of looking at this.

What is your sense of Spirit medicine? How do you see what used to be indigenous Spirit wisdom entering the awareness of wider population?

Spirit medicine is still quite foreign to many Western healthcare practitioners, doctors, nurses, and therapists. However, this worldview, a way of life of indigenous peoples, is gaining wider acceptance because it greatly assists in the healing process, and because it works. People are open to new tools and techniques or not.

Speaking of modern healing techniques, tell us about somatic experiencing.

I did a 3 year somatic experiencing training. I learned raising awareness of body sensations (a.k.a. somatic experiences) helps people re-negotiate and resolve the effects of their trauma. The approach allows the instinctual actions that were unable to complete at the time of the trauma to be safely and gradually discharged in present time. Somatic experiencing reminds me of EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques).  Different techniques suit different people. Each technique empowers people to release what prevents them from seeing and feeling unrecognized blockages.

Thanks for sharing. Many people can certainly benefit from this. New tools to expand awareness  are growing more widely available as humanity is ready for them. Something exists for everyone here.

As the creator of; The Pocket guide to Spirit Animals, Earth Magic Oracle Cards, Animal Spirit Guides,  and other shamanic references, you share valuable insights.  Why share this now?

I was assigned to do this. Elements of shamanic practises that appeal to a wider public. Sacred Cermony 1st book in genre. It emerged from my doctoral thesis. What is the difference between ritual and sacred ceremony.  Rituals performative, must be done in a certain way. I received a message. My spirit guides, they tell me what to do.  Earth Magic is a book full of purely shamanic techniques.  Spirit and power animals are popular. This is part of my path. I am pleased to serve.

You speak a lot about ritual and sacred ceremony. What is the relevance to happenings in your life?

For example, I see a tree ceremony on the horizon.  Specific details are not quite fleshed out yet.  The geographic location, the season, participants, all present with perfect timing. I have to be open to receiving information about sacred ceremony, whatever might re-direct ceremony in a certain way.

Love that when one is receptive to inner messages, this gives us a new insight into freedom and flow.

In this light, in Healing Ancestral Karma, you share it is possible to make contact with your ancestors to obtain wisdom that people can internalize  to help heal themselves on this timeline.  Please share relevant personal experience or client examples where this shifts energy and life paradigms.

Recommend people read a book by Mark Wolynn about family constellations therapy: It didn't start with you. One story covered is about a woman who wanted to suffocate/be gassed (suicide). She realized her grandmother was in Auschwitz and died that way.  She was still carrying that karma. Its about identification with an ancestor. Call it an energetic connection requiring attention.

Wolynn's book is an excellent read. What about examples from your own life? Please share insight you gain from your parents, for instance

My father and mother have come to me to different times and brought me profound healing. My mother came to me through a seer. The theme of abandonment came up and helped me understand what happened in my life as a child.  "Now I see who you are" is what echoes within. Shy kid, alcoholic parent.

My father comes to me often. "Look after your grandson, Jake," he often says. We can contact our immediate biological ancestors when we choose.

You also share about profound experiences during shamanic initiations. Speak about what feels relevant here.

An ancient ancestor also came to me during shamanic initiation. I cannot say his name (distant grandfather) aloud. Very poetic initiate. I did some magic mushrooms (public info in my book Ancestral Karma) and this facilitated the connection. During an age regression, I see this ancestor was present when I was 6 months old. Progressive memory opens up. At one stage, I was almost dead. He waved his finger at me. "Is this over?," I asked "Not yet," he said. I came to see suffering is part of the deal, part of the Soul agreement.

I resonate.  Streams of consciousness give us access to a completely different idea of time. I experience a domino effect of connecting more dots, why I am here.

As I said earlier, different tools suit different people. Each choice brings us face to face with unseen parts of ourselves.

Exactly. Now, among your skills, you describe yourself as a breathworker.  You use the breath as a healing tool.  Exploring and training in breathwork led me to join many dots in my life, including the revelation I am a womb twin survivor (WTS).  Which breathwork do you practice?

Breathwork is an umbrella term. Different systems exist. Conscious connected breathwork is what I practice and offer as an option for consultations. Indian (Eastern) approaches offer many pranayamas.

Well-said. You are likely aware that in the West, Leonard Orr founded the rebirthing style of breathwork and Stanislov Grof the Holotropic style of breathwork. My own cathartic breathwork teacher, Jaan Sanaam, draws from these styles and experience to create his own unique style. What is your feeling about public receptiveness to breathwork in the West?

The status quo is threatened by people changing their consciousness. I took the Vivation- course, practiced breathwork many years.  I learned that as I discipline myself, practice an hour and a half, revelations unfold inside me as I breathe certain ways (conscious connected breathing).

What do you recommend to people starting out? (Before getting guidance if this feels right)

Start out with a slow rhythm and increasing the rate changes things. The inner healer comes forward. Without you directing it, you may have an experience of the trauma of your past.  Instead of stopping or avoiding the trauma, you breathe through it.  You confront the darkness (demon) and breathe through it. Many layers of unconscious trauma exist. 

Any other breathwork teach you something worth mentioning?

Holotropic breathwork taught me old wounds come to surface for healing. I saw ancestors. Met the first shaman. Saw colors off the chart- it was a very unique experience. Everyone has a unique experience.

How is the breathwork experience similar to effects of psychedelics?

Breathwork is similar to experience with psychedelics in that both show you how it feels to lose sense of time. However, with drugs, you are in the state at least 48 hours unless you take a tranquilizer.  Read Pollan Michael- How to change your mind (contrasts holotropic breathwork and psychedelics under controlled conditions).

I have heard about that Pollan book through a national (U.S.) public radio podcast. It sounds like it builds bridges between spiritual and scientific worlds. Interviews with Dr. Rick Strassman , 5 Timeless Insights from Dale Pendell and others on this blog refer to the expansion of consciousness linked to psychedelic research. The Interview with Dr. Eben Alexander also implies areas of the medical establishment are in the process of shifting consciousness. 

That Michael Pollan compares breathwork with psychedelics says a lot about shifts in collective consciousness.

Indeed, the simplicity and increasing accessibility of breathwork definitely adds value to healing. It reminds me of how physical yoga came from the East and is now widely practised in the West.

Yes, but the original meaning of yoga is not solely a physical practice as is often adopted in the West. There is far more to yoga and more and more people are discovering. In a similar way, breathwork is entering public spheres as a healing practice because people are ready for it.  

I have attended a holotropic breathwork group at Joshua Tree- Breathwork in the Desert.  I go for to experience the loss of ego identity (disintegration is key). It is always rejuvenating and eye- opening. Breathwork is for clients and practitioners alike.

How the shaman in you sees the merging of science and spirituality in practical terms.

The merging of Science and Spirituality is happening. See The Tao of Physics-( from1970s).  Epigenetics is very new. Read The Genie in Your Genes, an eye-opening book by Dawson Church. "Its in the genetics" is no longer the response to everything. Humans can be far more empowered. Its about taking responsibility for thoughts and feelings, building on the lines of Dr. Bruce Lipton's pioneering work in The Biology of Belief.

What stands out the most to you here?

In genes themselves, certain traits can be capped off or on (switched off or on).  Only 5% DNA understood and scientists used to call the rest junk.  Certain genetic traits (i.e. trauma) can be turned off. Pregnant mom's who watched 9/11, babies were having trouble (depression due to feeling 9/11). Genes modified in a certain way in the womb setting them up to experience  depression and anxiety. Any kind of healing we do, helps the good genes upcap, exercise. Believing in some kind of higher power. Rachel Yahouta researcher- survivors of the holocaust children- high rate of depression and anxiety.  By doing the work we need to do dialectic therapy, semantic experiencing, breathwork, desentitization and recovery, emotional freedom effect, working with the body. Start with the body-The Body Keeps the Score this is where we start with Bessel Van Der kolk- profound book- hero on how to uncover trauma. We have the tools to live a full life.

You offer many valuable references here. Our readers appreciate this.

Look at the western vs third world. We have different perspectives. We each draw from different life expeirence. Find the middle ground. Re-discover yourself.

If you could share any advice about creating what Grace VanderWaal describes as A Better Life, what would you offer?

Slowing things down allows trapped energy in the body to release.  For example, explore breathwork or somatic experiencing. Contact a body-oriented therapist. Be observant of your body movements and language. You are always giving yourself unconscious messages to help you live a more conscious life.

Another thing: Its been said by so many people much wiser than me-Focus (Presence), Gratitude, Love

Make presence a standard. Be happy wherever you are with what you have. Feel tears of joy and appreciate to be experiencing this life. What a priceless experience it is (beyond the terrible childhood, minor grievances). Go to your whining corner to get it off your chest. Stay in gratittude

What else would you like to add?

Have a new book in the works. Will keep you in the loop about that. 

If it resonates, invite visitors here to explore the Earth Magic Practioner Certification Program

I wish to leave with a Wizard of Oz quote,

“A heart is not judged by how much you love; but by how much you are loved by others”. ― L. Frank Baum, 

and a quote from A Course in Miracles (ACIM). "When I am healed, I am not healed alone" I know who I am based on knowing everyone- ancestors , people in my training, people I interact with.  We all share our stories and learn from each other. 

Show up. Be present in your life, whatever you choose.

Check out Shaman's Path Cards - Animal Dreaming Publishing (Australian Publisher)

Spirit Animals as Healers - Animal Dreaming Publishing (Australian Publisher)

Thanks Steven, You are indeed a gift to this world.  Invite visitors to explore his website and books and discover the power of insight offered by Spirit animal wisdom.

Interview with Julia Pugateva

At this moment, I am pleased to share a dialogue I shared with Julia Pugateva, the owner of Julia's Organics.  She is known on Instagram for her mouth-watering food photos listed as Julia's Organic Garden and Kitchen.   I met her through a mutual friend and had the delight of a tour of her backyard garden as well as a glimpse of her recording snippets of master classes.

With her own natural beauty care products, a few of her own beehives, chickens and diverse fruits and veggies growing in an organized way, she certainly has a lot on the go.  You might catch her selling fresh produce or homemade saurkraut a local market, picking up containers people have discarded, offering classes in Endeavour Hills and her home.

How about you begin by sharing the basic idea of what you do.

I want people to get in touch with the Earth, be aware of where their food comes from, how its grown, how easy it is to grow food yourself, to make the most of what you have and the space you live in. We can all discover directly the impact of how we think and feel on health and well-being. I also wish people to discover aging is a state of mind and we can do a lot to look and feel younger and more energized.

What does organic gardening mean to you? 

Organic gardening is about getting back to basics, getting your hands dirty, making the best of local weather and resources, growing what you can where you are. 

What is your mission exactly?

-Grow & supply fresh, organic produce

- Provide exceptional organic skincare range at affordable price
- Encourage people to reduce our environmental footprint on the planet
- Run educational activities and give professional advice (master classes, cooking, gardening, lifestyle)
- Implement sustainable living whenever possible

When did you get started? And why do you continue?

I have been organic gardening since I was six years old.  When I go to large grocery chains to see what they have, they seem to be limited in what they offer. I also do not like that some items are transported long distances to get on the store shelves. I like to eat as local as possible, sell my products at markets and also do home delivery in my area.

What prompted you to devote more time to your passions for cooking, gardening, health and well-being?

I used to work in an accounting office. The money was good but I did not have much time with my children.  I started a youtube channel that shares advice and experience about subjects that are important to me.  The business grows based on where I put my energy and how much confidence and trust I have in myself.  After all, if I do not set an example; eat what I sell, use my products that I say boost health and well-being, how can I expect people to take me seriously?

Love that you practice what you preach.  Living in integrity, being true to yourself, is a powerful message that people feel. 

Your garden is so full of delicious things to eat.  Please share some details about what you grow.

I love gardening, during every season. I grow flowers, fruit trees, vegetables and herbs. This provides me with endless organics and food supplies throughout the year, gives me joy and happiness. In my garden, I have apples, plums, pears, oranges, grapefruit, grapes, mandarins among many other fruit and vegetables. Every day, I am picking seasonal vegetables and herbs. Many people forget what it tastes like to eat a fresh egg that was just laid. I also harvest honey and beeswax from my own beehives. I wish to live sustainably, not go to the shops so often.

Love more people are exploring what is required to be an apiarist. Its not for the faint at heart!

You may have heard people like Jim Davis say: "Vegetables are a must on a diet.  I suggest carrot cake, zucchini bread, and pumpkin pie." Of course, many people know vegetables offer endless possibilities for the palette, taste great alone or mixed, and do not have to be in cake or bread.

And they are full of nutrition too!

Tell us what people may find unique about the garden you have at this stage.

As you look in my garden, you notice I use absolutely everything I can get my hands on to grow food and encourage sustainable living. I am not growing food in my old spa, but I have considered it.  I pick up items on the side of the road.  People also bring me things they no longer want or need.  I compost my own earth, grow fruit and vegetables in buckets, rectangular styrafoam containers, an old broken mini kids' wading pool, an old plastic car my kids used to drive when they were little, rubber boots, regular plant pots and even an old hen house. I am very practical.

Gee, you remind us that being resourceful is within reach with whatever we have.  It stands out you show that adults, like children, have freedom to be creative. Adults are so often defined by being serious, laughing less than children. We have  more fun by living more simply, laughing at ourselves.  It helps to let go of doing what we are taught and inventing new ways to live and learn.

Yes. And people often say to me they do not have space to grow anything. I remind people they can grow food in pots on a windowsill, that you can suspend plastic bottles as a mini salad garden from a fence.  We can make the most of our homes to pay more attention to the environment and how we can use what we have. The only limits are those we place on ourselves.

I am excited to hear more about your upcoming permaculture advice and cooking classes and other activities.  Where can people find out about these details?

Visit my website and keep tabs on my instagram messages. Among others, I am offering a classs on saurkraut making.  The probiotics are very good for the gut. My diet growing up included different kinds of saurkraut. I share related personal stories.

Personal touches clearly make your classes engaging. I love the samples I witness as you make cauliflour soup as well as traditional salad including saurkraut after a garden tour to collect the contents.  The honey dessert is a nice touch for those with a sweet tooth.

Yes. People forget the simple truth that nutritious food can be cooked quickly with what is seasonal, readily available and for an afforable price. I tell people this when I sell produce at local markets or online. I also share wholesome recipes on my site and blog as well as during cooking classes to help people help themselves and eat healthier.

What would you say is a bit unusual about what you grow?

I invite people to grow seasonally what helps maintain health and well being and encourages self-healing.  Growing and eating garlic and tumeric for instance, minimizes colds, especially during winter. I grow a south american fruit which research shows helps to heal Type II diabetes. Many fruits have anti-cancer properties as well and how different foods helps self-heal is part of what I teach. It is not only about how to grow sustainable produce, but also to be aware of the health benefits that are passed down from ancient cultures.

Love that what you are doing is also a way to empower people to take more responsibility for their own health, to care about where their food comes from.  Thus, when people buy from you or other organic farmers at markets, they can feel more connected to the Earth and what kinds of foods contribute to longevity, health and well-being.

Please offer advice about what people can do to naturally minimize pests in their garden beds.

Sprinkle cayenne pepper on leaves and soil in areas of leafy greens prone to insects or as a preventative.  Kale is an exception. Dilute some dishsoap or kids' shampoo with water and spray it on the leaves. I offer lots of other useful specifics during my garden tour.

Julia, you are a wealth of practical knowledge! Unsure if you know the film Julie & Julia (2009) with actresses Meryl Streep and Amy Adams. If not, I sense you would enjoy it. You have so much wisdom to offer, I sense you will eventually compile a garden tips book as well as a cook book people can make their way though. The humor of the film I recommend to you relates to a woman changing her life based on food and cooking her way through an inspirational cookbook.

Tell us about organic products you share other than those you grow.

I offer a shop on my website with products I recommend to compliment what you grow yourself. People can check out the online shop offerings.  They include items for; pantry, kitchen, beauty products, supplements, pet food, eco-cleaning products, eggs, fridge and other items. I highlight my own garden produce.

That is an impressive variety. Your shop includes items you produce as well as other organic products.  How do you choose?

I sell those things I recommend and use myself. People also put me onto different items and I test them out before adding them to my shop. My beauty products combine natural liquids, herbs, beeswax and extracts to promote youthfulness. Look at my skin--it glows. This speaks volumes.

Your blog reveals you know a lot about which berries, herbs and fruits are good for specific ailments. Your blog offers a great article on Buckthorn. How do you come to know these things?

I do research. I test things out. People share their stories with me. I know people who have healed themselves. I feel its important to share this kind of information.  Then, people feel more empowered and know they do not always need chemicals.

When you speak from the heart, it shows. I love those stories you share with me in-person and encourage you to share more on your blog.  Tell people why you choose to grow specific plants in you garden, and which ones promote specific kinds of healing. 

Great idea! I'll get to that soon. My next article is going to be how to fight pests organically.

Many people can certainly benefit from insights that would help them based on their soil, climate and other factors. Look forward to hearing more from you.

Let us know if you have any other special events you would like to draw reader attention toward.

An article is coming out soon in Bohemian Rhapsody Magazine. Look out for it. New videos will also soon be available on my website. Check back often to view new developments.

We certainly will!

Thank again and Spasibah! Julia for your inspiration in listening to your heart and showing people it is within reach for everyone to live in ways that promote simpler, healthier living. When we speak our truth, be accountable for how we feel and overall life situations, we each have the choice to take responsibility and decide where to focus our attention.

One of the very nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating. -Luciano Pavarotti

9 Ways to get closer to Truth

Many people are seeking threir version of the truth.  The common belief is that the truth cannot be where you are or related to what you think you are doing. Yet the Truth is widely sought as a pointer to peace of mind, the end of restlessness and it cannot be explained in words.  In this way, its easier to say what the truth is not.  Reflecvt on these 9 ways to get closer to the Truth:

1. Intuit the truth is not based on beliefs

A group of people can agree and form a conspiracy based on false beliefs where they all agree to tell the same false story, but it does not make their assumption true.

2. Realize the Truth does not have to be uplifting

A sense of adversity, trauma or tragedy can also be valid.

3. Accept the Truth is not necessarily based on views of majority

Fifty-one percent or more of a group can be brainwashed, conditioned to reach a wrong conclusion.

 4. Grasp the Truth cannot be understood in the mind

A lengthy, detailed presentation can still result in a false conclusion.

 5. Recognize the Truth is not defined by intention

Intentions are expressions of the mind and can be wrong.

6. Sense that Truth is not how we know

Truth is not an opinion but a knowing of what we feel.

7. Get that Truth is not simply a possibility

Truth is not something to contemplate. Its felt beyond shadow of a doubt

8. Discern the Truth is not externally- provable

A truth can be privately known (an internal revelation that cannot be shared in words)

 9. Truth is not something that changes  

Lies can appear static but they are still lies and not the truth.

Interview with Alison Clarke-Daly

More people are discovering this life is about creating and pushing boundaries, as well as allowing those we outgrow to dissolve.  Our individual journeys invite growing conscious of gifts we are destined to share with the world.  Along the way, everyone we meet is a teacher.

In this light, meeting Alison Clarke-Daly is sheer delight! She is founder of IntoFreedom, esoteric acupuncturist, workshop facilitator, yoga instructor and so much more. She offers service and interactive Solstice gatherings that enrich the general public.  Feel very privileged that she makes time in her reality to share highlights of her Soul journey into cutting edge Healing Arts.

For the benefit of readers unfamiliar with your work, please share some milestones that stand out your life that helped you deepen insight into yourself.

I am a baby-boomer born in the South Island of New Zealand and the most southern of rural plains.  My parents are farmers, life was good and uncomplicated. The second child of seven, the first girl of two, which means I have five brothers and a sister. I loved my horse, the sheep, the land and the bush behind us. I grew up safe, wild and free although female in a male world it didn’t really occur to me to be subservient to the social norms.  My teenage years were different. I knew in my heart I had to leave. The growth that I needed was not available in the local environment. Although I did not know what that growth was. I just knew I had to leave.  So, in late 1965, I booked a flight to Sydney with two other girlfriends. A big city!! I was 17. I met my boyfriend and to be husband and travelled to Cairns. Not something that I would feel safe for my own daughter to do now! We have a son. Now he has three sons. 

After the journey to meet your husband, any specific travel experience that really wakes you up, shows you what you are truly made of and accelerates the journey inward for you?

We travelled to Manchester, U.K., and returned three years later, driving overland from England to Australia. One cannot travel like this now. Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran are not considered safe. It was hair-raising, life-transforming for me. This travel developed a ferrel, survival instinct, confirmed my innate ability to trust myself.

This story certainly reveals a spontaneous, thrill-seeker within who was primed to get your attention.  Seems to guide the next stage of your life purpose. Can still feel the adrenalin flowing.

Which specific pivotal moments led you into the Healing Arts?

The pivotal moments and experiences that lead to my work now were present in my earlier life, I just did not notice them initially. Horse riding and freedom as a child developed trust in my sense of feel. My spiritual training was church on Sundays. At that point in my life however, I considered this outing a waste of time and of no value. Travelling and leaving home early supported confidence and courage in following my own path.  Organic food and clean water of my childhood built a strong body that worked well. Limitations were opportunities for adventure. My education gave me the ability to learn outside the square and knowledge that I would not and did not have to conform. I am grateful to have grown up without alcohol, drugs, violence, TV or medications. I do miss the natural silence.  Music from the external world can be a distraction and guide us in different directions if we allow it.

Please share some of the major obstacles you have encountered in your life and how you have dealt with them. Which lessons do you learn and take away?

As I turned 40, my marriage dissolved. Our son was grown and playing AFL football for the Sydney Swans. I am sorry my son, I was not a very good football mother. I was relatively secure financially, I was at the top of the field in my corporate work, had started and supported a business, yet nothing in my personal life gave me joy. I was blaming my husband for my dissatisfaction and that was not a good thing. He did not have my answers. My unhappiness was my issue to explore and resolve.  This was the early 1990’s.   I moved out of my marriage, bought my own house. Split it in two and rented the front half. I joined a Yoga class. I learnt to meditate. I discovered that I had choice. This understanding totally floored me, for I discovered that until now I had lived in rebellion and in response to others. Just like my Mum!! Bless her.

It is said the term ‘mid-life crisis’ is like a life-changing opportunity to make unresolved emotions conscious and heal them. In other words, a person reaches stages in life where it hits energetically that certain emotions have not been dealt with.  We always have choices to recognize and make necessary shifts within ourselves or not.  As you discover, true happiness is not linked to external people, places or things.  Choice is a powerful revelation on the path to personal empowerment. How did this shift in mindset re-orient you?

Choice is one thing. To know what one wants is another! In a meditation where I had set myself to asking, “What should I do now?”  The reply was in capital letters as big as the sky “BE”.   Just “BE”.  For a doing person, BEING is confusing. Confusion or chaos is the beginning of clarity and order. However, I found confusion painful, depressing and I felt vulnerable until I surrendered to trust. This meant I had to move from my rational mind to my Heart.  To trust my heart’s desire or discern the Whisper of my Heart which is how I come to live, teach and practice as an Advanced Energy Healer with Esoteric Acupuncture and other tools. 

 So, you might say your destiny as a healer found you?

I never set out of be a Healer, Practitioner or teacher. I set out to heal myself. Carolyn Myss’s work led me to explore my desire “to be of service” as opposed to subservient. I studied Yoga.  I wanted to explore the discipline not teach. However, I began to teach. Yoga led me stillness and teaching from the Heart. I studied Shiatsu which expanded my innate ability of clairsentience and the knowledge to feel Qi or Energy. I become a Practitioner. Shiatsu led me to Japanese Acupuncture, Manaka Protocols, ToyoHari Practice and Aromatherapy. All led me to study and practice Esoteric Acupuncture Advanced Energy Healing and the meeting of Dr Mikio Sankey. I feel amazed and honoured with the privilege of sharing the power of Dr Mikio’s treatments and the teaching of other Light Workers and Energy Healers.

What is Esoteric Acupuncture Advanced Energy Healing and how does this differ from Traditional Acupuncture and Chinese medicine?

Esoteric Acupuncture expands consciousness. As we expand in consciousness we begin to expand our fields of awareness and our senses of clairvoyance, clairaudience, clairsentience and prophecy or knowing. The fields of the Heart strengthen.  We grow more still, certain, find that more grace, love, wisdom, forgiveness, gratitude, clarity, joy and compassion is available and indeed our birth right.  The puzzle piece or path of one’s life becomes clearer more certain.

Love that energy-based healing modalities are growing more widely available.  This emergence of options signals more of humanity is awakening, beginning to recognize everything is energy first. Shifts in consciousness guide us to tap into more inner confidence, to notice expanding opportunities and new ways to view and grow ourselves.

From your direct experience, how does Esoteric Acupuncture benefit clients?

When one is working with Traditional Acupuncture the purpose is to increase or decrease the flow or the amount of Qi in the body’s meridians. Create balance, an equilibrium or wholeness in the mind and body.

In Esoteric Acupuncture, we are working on the Etheric Body and Etheric Qi. An acupuncture needle or other tool contacts a specific acupuncture point and this contact creates a Spin Field. The Spin Field is as a gateway or vortex, the needle or tool acts as an antenna for connection to Higher Fields of consciousness through to All Fields. In many meditation practices this is referred to as Nirvana or Christ Consciousness. In each treatment of Esoteric Acupuncture a New Encoding Pattern is introduced to ones Fields of Consciousness. Creating new geometric patterns (Sacred Geometry) which with clarity and intention support and expand the Fields of the Heart and allow the benefits mention above to become consciously conscious.

Many kinds of initiaties and initations exist. How does work you do awaken the initiate within?

Esoteric means that which is hidden or known to few, the Initiate or Initiated. Esoteric Acupuncture Advanced Energy Healing brings into form and allows Knowing of the Esoteric or the Mysteries as the church refers to something that cannot be explained.

The New Encoding Pattern of Discern the Whisper of the Heart which is shown in the drawing attached shows something of the ease and complexity of a pattern, the sequencing of points and the geometric pattern. Ancient Wisdoms, Sacred Geometry, Numerology, Acupuncture Points which are known as Windows of the Sky, Celestial, Heavenly or Gateway points are connected with intention and active mental energy of visualisation expanding the Heart and Higher Heart Fields. Often clients can sense their wings. The energetic wings of the Heart.

Who is Dr Mikio Sankey and how does meeting him shape your life direction into the advanced healing arts?

Dr Mikio Sankey is the founder of Esoteric Acupuncture and I met him in Los Angeles when I sought treatment to experience this work. I had read all his publications and Knew that I wanted to experience his work.  The story is in on my web page. www.intofreedom.com.au 

I am honoured and humbled that I teach Dr. Mikio’s work. I have found my ‘Spirit Path”. It as if I have remembered and many of those that I have taught say the same. The memory of the practice is almost tangible. I rest in the understanding that “this is my job”. That this life for me is about this journey and the sharing of the benefits of the expansion of consciousness to whoever wants to explore and Know. If I stand back and look at my life and the likely hood of our connection and the work we do. I say logically this is not possible. However, there is a place where logic becomes illogical and I step through that into BEING. And still I seek.

Who is Tom Ledder? How did you meet him and where do your paths cross?

Tom Ledder is a Master Light Worker and craftsman of Selenite Swords of Light. Selenite is an inert crystal and magnifier the hardware of a Sword of Light. The power of a sword is the software which is in the handle. The handle contains 230+ crushed crystals; holly waters collected from around the planet and set in resin. Tom met Dr Mikio, Mikio introduced to Tom.  I work with Tom and his swords. These swords act as tools as in a needle, as in an antenna to open and cleanse Fields and expand consciousness. They are as power if not more so than acupuncture needles. They install a New Encoded Pattern as cleanly and as effectively as a needle and there is no insertion through the skin which means that the constraints of skin penetration do not apply. 

Psychic surgery is growing more known. How would you compare this to the effects of Esoteric Acupuncture?

Psychic surgery is becoming more known. Esoteric Acupuncture Advanced Energy Healing is not psychic surgery. This does not mean that psychic surgery cannot be applied by a skilled practitioner at the same time. The purpose of Esoteric Acupuncture Advanced Energy Healing is to expand consciousness and the fields of the Heart so the Puzzle Piece or Heart Path of one’s present life becomes clear.

Do you notice any similarities in theory, practice and/or public reception to these techniques?

The people who come to me for healing or to learn this skill and lifestyle are already on a journey. They are looking to strengthen their own Inner Path. They meditate, eat cleanly, may practice some form of yoga, qigong or other spiritual practice such as building an Antahkarana. They are teachers or healers formally or informally. Already they have a Knowing, an understanding that there is an energetic form to our lives and we are more than the physical. They understand they are spiritual beings having a human experience and want to live to their fullest potential. They already know that intention, thought (both known and unknown), vibrations of sound and light influence the Fields of the Heart, auric, astral, mental, Buddhic and beyond. They are aware of other dimension and that being in touch with their Higher Self and Higher Heart is possible and desirable. They can sense this, know this, hear this or see this.   The increasing speed of time and light at this present time is not an accident and that their existence now is not an accident.

Esoteric Acupuncture Advanced Energy Healing is not a ‘doing-to’ treatment. It is an opening, expanding and empowering practice that a client has control of at all time. An Esoteric Acupuncture Advanced Energy Healing session can open gateways; however a client may or may not choose to explore them.

Why is it desirable to build an Antahkarana, a Rainbow Bridge or an Inner Spiritual Antenna? How do we do it?

It is desirable to build an Antahkarana, a Rainbow Bridge, a bridge of mental matter, also known as an Inner Spiritual antenna, because it builds geometric form in our Fields. Allows us to connect, develop the strength of knowing, seeing and awareness of the energy field of our Higher Heart. So that we can align, discern the Whisper of the Heart. BE. Enjoy.

Love the impact of allowing more geometry to come into my field. As I continue to see geometry, this energetic shift  within has transformed how I see, feel and understand myself. The result is indeed tangible and unique for each individual. Changes unfold in how we view the world and how we respond to what we create for ourselves.

Tell us about the "Antahkarana 3-6-1" meditation. Please share how it came to enter your reality.

Antahkarana is an Ancient Wisdom Esoteric knowing that much has been discussed about. However, it is only Dr Mikio Sankey in his book Sea of Fire Cosmic Fire, Esoteric Acupuncture Vol lV did I find a description of how to build an Antahkarana. It took great effort to do this, however it was from this effort that I found the will, the desire, the action to go to LA, seek Dr. Mikio and the do what I do today. I have written an eBook which clearly explains the practice including the how’s and why’s of connecting the 36+1 acupuncture points, create the geometric patterns and build an Antahkarana. The book is free to download from www.intofreedom.com.au  

A 20minute CD audio guidance is also available on this site. 

The eBook and CD make building you own Antahkarana very possible. Well worth exploring and enjoying the benefits.

Winter Solstice is fast approaching.  I sense you have something special planned. Please share details of how you celebrate winter and summer solstices. What’s it about? Who can come?

Summer and Winter Solstice Ceremonies have been practiced by humanity for eons. I make this ceremony a special time to celebrate and set direction for the coming cycle. There is no cost and it is open to all. I create a space that is both personal and private yet within a group environment. The process is a guided meditation followed by the invitation to bring into form through writing a list of thoughts and experiences that no longer serve you.  This list is ceremonially cleansed through fire and we return to meditate into stillness and proceed to bring into form through writing a list of thoughts and experiences that will serve you. This list is kept until the next solstice ceremony.

The ceremony is an adventure, a joy, a confirmation of one’s journey especially when one reads what was paramount in one’s life six months ago.

 When is the next such event? What other gatherings do you host?

Summer and Winter Solstice Ceremony is a gift to all who wish. It is my way of giving back. Summer or Winter Ceremony start at 7.30pm on the 21st December and 21st June each year. To join us email alison@intofreedom.com.au

Very generous of you to open your heart and space to welcome those with whom this event resonates. Encourage readers to get in touch with you about this and the Summer Solstice event.

What is the AACMA and why is it significant about the upcoming AACMA event in the Gold Coast?

 AACMA stands for Australian Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Association. Esoteric Acupuncture Advanced Energy Healing was presented for the first time in May 2018 at the National Conference. The presentation highlighted the difference between Esoteric Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture.

Who is Dr. Steven Booth and how did you collaborate in this recent AACMA event?

Dr Steven Booth and I invited conference attendees to experience the difference between Traditional and Esoteric Acupuncture (Advanced Energy Healing) We gave 20minute sessions to many. This was very well received resulting in plans for workshops in Sydney and the opportunity to attend FOUNDATION Level l & ll, a 4- day workshop on the Gold Coast in July.

That feels very exciting for you and the future of Esoteric Acupuncture. Why is it important that more people grow aware of human energetic fields and energy anatomy? How does this relate to the ongoing shifts in consciousness?

More and more people are becoming aware of our energetic fields.  We are beginning to understand that we are but light and information. That spiritual or energy fields are not religious and are subject to our thoughts and environment. That wisdom is power and consciousness does expand, and that the expansion of our primary senses is our birthright. It is not just a special gift it is our own right and power to heal, forgive, love, find our Heart Path. Esoteric Acupuncture Advanced Energy Healing is a skill and treatment that opens the doors and allows you to make your own way on your Heart Path whatever that might BE.

Being Here Now is the simplest Way yet often viewed as the hardest .  As Henry Ford reminds us, "Whether we think life is easy or hard, we prove ourselves right."

What do you envision is happening within and around you since immersing yourself in advanced energy healing practices?

For me the journey from the farm, a kiwi kid to the honour and privilege of teaching and treating individuals, witnessing their growth and the joy of that is a miracle in itself.   My skills and the ability in my senses, clarity of mind and intuition along with the gentle loving certainty of Wisdom as opposed to harsh constraint of righteousness is a humbling exciting experience. I am infinitely grateful for the adventure of my life. Still I seek.

What advice or information would you like to leave with our readers?

I encourage you to seek a practitioner of Esoteric Acupuncture Advanced Energy Healing. There will be someone in your State. Consider building your Antahkarana and see what wisdom that that practice unfolds. Do a workshop. The Foundation Level l & ll is open to all. You do not have to be an Acupuncturist or a Practitioner.  The workshop will teach you how to find the acupuncture points and open the spin fields and how to envisage geometric patterns, install New Encoding Patterns and how to expand consciousness and the Fields of Your Higher Heart.    Workshops are in different States although the base is in Melbourne. The next ESOTER ACUPUNCTURE Advanced Energy Healing Workshop FOUNDATION Level l &ll is on the Gold Coast at the end of July. All details are on www.intofreedom.com.au

To book your place for the FOUNDATION Level l & ll ESOTERIC ACUPUNCTURE Advanced Energy Healing Workshop on the Gold Coast

Book Here https://www.trybooking.com/OBGO  

 Add anything else you feel would benefit Dreambuilders Australia Blog readers.

Most importantly, allow yourself to listen to intuition, as the heart guides you. Explore the IntoFreedom Website.

Selenite words of Light workshop and other details are on www.intofreedom.com.au

I am of service. My number is 0422 845 105 I have a clinic in Boronia Victoria you can book online on www.intofreedom.com.au

Thanks Alison Clarke-Daly, for all you do and all you are. Your story and your work are a gift to the world.  We appreciate your gifts and how you fearlessly move forward empowering others to grow conscious and live their dream.