Rose Cottage

 Over the last several years, I've enjoyed many crafting circles with friends from around the world - via zoom! I offer  bimonthly circles, choosing themes with my co-facilitators. These were in person before lockdown - there's way less schlocking of supplies with virtual circles!  My friend Kendall hosts full and new moon circles monthly, and we usually work in crafty journals, often making a round moon card. I love crafting round cards, and this process of letting the theme inspire both my collage and a card.  Here's a journal spread from several years ago, which accompanied a painting journey.  Collage spread in CODEX journal Our October full moon is in fiery Aries, called the Hunter Moon by many. There were 8 in today's circle - and it's always fun to witness the variety of images and colors that emerge!  Moon cards from our circles Kendall drew several oracle cards - from a deck which includes recipes! Temperance bespoke balance - and the recipe was ...

 Being human can be thought of as a dance of finding balance between our connections and our own unique spark, our place and purpose.  In Okinawa, home of more centenarians than most other areas of the globe, discovering one's purpose is a key factor to well being, and is called Ikigai . When we align with our values and purpose, we are more content in good times, and resilient in times of stress. This in turn can lead to enhanced health and wellbeing.  Some factors which promote my sense of well being include enjoying a mainly whole foods diet (with a preponderance of local,  fiber rich foods, fresh when possible), moving throughout the day, spending time outside, connecting with friends and family, and engaging in creative pursuits.   For over 40 years, I've been engaged in Healing Arts as a Licensed Massage Therapist, and feel inspiring others fulfills my sense of purpose. I've always identified a creative, and enjoy teaching creating and healing. ...

 The Reiki precepts begin  kyo dake wa , just for today ... When we have Reiki, we can invite the energy to flow into our activities and interactions throughout the day.  When Hawayo   Takata , who brought Reiki to the West, awaited surgery in Dr Maeda's hospital in Tokyo, each of the meals prepared by the doctor's dietician sister was  blessed with Reiki : green tea, Rice, beans, steamed vegetables, seaweed.  As she learned Reiki herself, Mrs Takata blessed her own food and drink, and later recommended her students do the same. Spiritual leaders and teachers from most traditions suggest blessing whatever we ingest. Say a little prayer before a meal, imagine rainbows in your water - if we do this daily, it soon becomes second nature. We can also use blessings and Reiki around the home: set up an altar (appropriate to your traditions and beliefs) Keep a gratitude journal - begin and/ or end your day with gratitude hold seeds, flowers or herbs a minute before...