MAUREEN ST. GERMAIN: Spiritual Leader (c) By Polly Guerin

Maureen St. Germain is one of our country’s most multifaceted spiritual leaders, whose lifelong journey developed the path that led her to become an author and self-realization teacher and founder of the Akashic Records Guides. She brings to the A.R.E. of New York, through her workshop “Learn How to Read Your Akashic Records, an awakening of information that opens the door for a wide range of seekers to comprehend how to access these records that reveal past, present and future aspects of their life. This is a major breakthrough and echoing the words of Edgar Cayce Maureen says, “The Akashic records are available to everyone.” To this end, she has taught workshops worldwide for almost twenty years, but from the start of her young life she was devoted to God, the Angelic realm and spiritual forces.

SPIRITUAL BEGINNINGS

Maureen says, “I have been spiritually focused all my life,” and relates that as a youngster she read “The Lives of the Saints” book and was introduced to Edgar Cayce by her mother, who was a psychic. Early on her faith was so strong that she even contemplated becoming a nun. Continuing on her spiritual path Maureen read hundreds of books on spiritual enlightenment and books on angels, ascended masters, Mayan mysteries and even modern day mystics.

   At first, Maureen was a stay-at-home mom and mother of four sons. Her life, one might surmise at this time, was typical of women of her genre. However, Maureen was a multifaceted individual who went beyond this homemaker role and even worked in the corporate world as a CEO, lobbyist and as a nonprofit fundraiser. However, her spiritual vision remained steadfast throughout this part of her life and it manifested itself more emphatically as she became interested in the Search for God study groups.

SEARCH FOR GOD STUDY GROUP
As a woman determined to pursue her destiny Maureen’s attention was focused on her spiritual development. As a young mom in her 20s Maureen participated in her first Search for God Study Group and attended every week’s meeting for five years. When she relocated to New York City, she joined the A.R.E. New York Center and this was her first foray into teaching classes here as well.
   Maureen and her family were on the move again and in 1979 Maureen was living in the Midwest in Warren, Ohio. She recalls: “I went to my first Search for God study group there because of Charlotte Alexander’s reputation as a gifted teacher and spiritual icon. She was the study group’s leader and “I choose to attend for the spiritual stimulation and discussion, which resonated with me in a big way including the doctrine, “People were held accountable for their thoughts and words.” At this time Maureen also adopted Edgar Cayce’s recommendations on health. “I also began using the Cayce health remedies on myself and my family and my four sons were given castor oil packs on the first signs of discomfort.”
AKASHIC RECORDS
The explanation of the Akashic Records is offered here as introduction to this segment of this interview. “In theosophy and anthroposophy, the Akashic Records (from akasha, the Sanskrit word for ‘sky’ 'space’ or ‘aether’) are a compendium of mystic knowledge supposedly encoded in a non-physical plane of existence known as the astral plane.”

Referring to the Akashic Records Maureen says, “I always knew I was aware I could see a field of knowledge that existed and as a youngster I was very sensitive to the energies around me.”
   Maureen continues: “My first recollection of the Akashic Records was before I was a teenager. I knew that it existed, but I did not know what it was called back then.” At one time Maureen received a message from a certain astrologer. She called her on the phone and astrologer said “You have been given access to a dimension closed to humanity for millions of years.”
   After being ‘granted access to this dimension’ Maureen has been giving Akashic Records workshops worldwide to enlighten other people on how to open their own Akashic records. She also founded a training program for Akashic Records Guides, Akashic Records International (ARI). Her program stresses integrity, accuracy and usefulness of information.Adding to her vast font of knowledge, Maureen was also personally trained and accredited by Drunvalo Melchizedek as a certified Flower of Life facilitator in 1995.
BOOK AUTHOR
Maureen St. Germain is also a bestselling author and her self-published books through Phoenix Rising Publishing, a division of her firm, Transformational Enterprises, Inc., are also sold as EBooks through Amazon. In “Be A Genie” her book assists people in meeting and surpassing their life dreams and goals using the laws of quantum physics and sacred geometry, along with easy to learn, step-by-step tools and practice. She suggests that readers who wish to manifest positive thinking and results should create a movie of a specific goal and replay that movie over and over again in their mind to reinforce its positive outcome. Another book, “Beyond the Flower of Life,” offers advanced Merkaba teachings, sacred geometry and the opening of your heart. Her self-study guide for personal transformation is found in “Reweaving the Fabric of Your Reality.
BOARD OF A.R.E. NEW YORK
   Maureen’s corporate experience in tandem with her role as a spiritual leader is an interesting combination that proves of merit to the A.R.E. New York. In regard to her corporate experience she says; “I learned how to operate on a board, how to work as a team and I learned about the value of fund raising.”
   Maureen has been a member of the A.R.E. for three years and has presented a number of workshops at the A.R.E. New York Center. She was invited to join the Board several months ago and channeled her higher self and accepted the position. “I was recently appointed to the Fund Raising Committee and hope to be able to support the chair, Lynne Salomon, along with the whole board of the A.R.E. To this end Maureen donated a free training session to our Board. She concludes: “I believe my professional training in non-profit administration will be the strongest contribution.”
Maureen St. Germain leads workshops worldwide in personal development and spiritual awakening. She shares the knowledge she has gained from the study of ancient truths and parlays this knowledge to seekers in workshops, lectures and her books.



Polly Guerin, author of eight books, is a lifetime member of the A.R.E. New York Center, and a member of the Association for Research and Enlightenment headquarters in Virginia Beach, Va. Ms. Guerin is a former college professor and also writes features for major magazines.

PERFUME: QUELQUES FLEURS REMEMBERED (c) By Polly Guerin

Quelques Fleurs, the renowned French perfume, that began with just a basket of flowers; I remember it well! As my chic aunt Victorine passed through a room I knew that she had been there as the scent of Quelques Fleurs left its indelible imprint on the aroma that lingered long after she had departed for an excursion to town. It was her signature perfume and later it became mine as well.

LEGENDARY PERFUME Quelques Fleurs, L’Original was created by the House of Houbigant, founded in Paris, France in 1775 by the renowned French perfumer, Jean-Francois Houbigant of Grasse. It is one of the most renowned classics of all time; the perfume that changed all flower fragrances forever. As the name implies Quelques Fleurs (Some Flowers) was the first true multi-floral bouquet, which established a completely new fragrance classification. Up to that time, floral fragrances had been mostly single flowers or were blended with herbs and other essences.

THE ESSENCE OF PERFECTION Quelques Fleurs is a fresh, floral aromatic perfume that is imbued with the subtle yet soft scent that is forever young at heart. It is fashioned from the highest quality and costliest natural aromatic and absolute oils and is still made in Grasse, where it was created in 1912. The “nose” behind this fragrance was Robert Bienaime. Top notes include orange blossom, green notes tarragon, bergamot, lemon and citruses; middle notes include carnation, tuberose, orchid, lilac, jasmine, lily-of-valley, rose, violet and iris and base notes include amber, must, honey and vanilla. The Genealogy of Perfumes cites Quelques Fleurs as a landmark innovation that established a totally new fragrance classification and influenced other compositions for years afterward, including many of today’s important fragrances.

THE HOUSE OF HOUBIGANT The House of Houbigant was the perfumer to the royal courts of Europe and found favor with royalty and nobility including Napoleon and Josephine Bonaparte, Emperor and Empress of France, Queen Victoria of England and Czar Alexander III of Russia. Not so lucky was a Marie Antoinette, Queen of France and wife of King Louis XVI. Houbigant legend has it that when Marie Antoinette was fleeing to Varennes to escape the French revolutionaries she was recognized as royalty because of her Houbigant perfume, which only royalty could afford.

QUELQUE FLEURS ROYALE Houbigant Paris, 1908 is based upon a formula originally created in 1829 for Princess Adelaide D’Orleans, Queen Mother of France. It begins with buoyant, contemporary citric and fruit notes, followed by a rich, warm floral heart accented with acacia honey, lingering with a sensual base of wood, amber and musk. Quelques Fleurs Royale is made in Grasse, where Jean-Francois created his first perfumes in 1775.

HOUBIGANT HISTORY Jean-Francois Houbigant of Grasse (1752-1807), originally sold gloves, perfumes and bridal bouquets. The original shop, called “A la Corbeille de Fleurs”, was in the rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore. In 1882, the House launched Fougere Royale, a new fragrance family. It was the first “fougere” (or fern-like) perfume ever created, establishing a completely new fragrance family, which still remains today the most popular family in men’s fragrances. The formula completely revolutionized the world of perfumes and established modern perfumery as it exists today.

QUELQUES FLEURS!!! There is nothing as exquisite as a classic that endures. Houbigant perfumes are sold at most upscale department stores.

ENERGETIC BLISS with SHARON BYKERK-LONERGAN By Polly Guerin

In a world filled with the cacophony of city life, the stress of work or personal health concerns it is comforting to know that women seeking the resurgence of harmony in their lifestyle need go no further but turn to Sharon’s Energetic Bliss. Her mission statement says it all. “My belief in the healing arts is deeply profound, providing an Energetic “whole” – istic approach. I pledge to keep the power of gentle professional touch alive by providing an important service to women that can truly improve their quality of life by being the conduit, for their own self-healing.” Sharon is a woman determined to succeed in holistic healing with a subtle approach that underscores the philosophy of Energetic Bliss.

HOLISTIC HEALING Sharon has dedicated her life to the well being of others. She is a woman whose hands have a distinct therapeutic touch that is gentle, yet goes deep into sensitizing where a client’s energy centers need the most attention and revitalization. With soft persuasive hands, Sharon‘s gentle professional touch serves as a conduit that also helps women to heal themselves and clear toxins whether emotional, chemical or both. Her services are tuned into the needs of the individual and her uncanny ability to immediately attune to a client’s concerns makes her a truly sensitive practitioner.

THE SERVICES Sharon practices in disciplines including Reiki, Aromatherapy Massage, Hot Stone Massage, Polarity Therapy and Onnetsu Far Infrared Therapy. The wall in her salon attests to the fact that Sharon has honed her skills and authenticated her diverse practice. The serene salon has a skyline view with windows opening to the sunlight. A warm bed-like massage table, on which a client reclines, in a fully clothed session, provides a soothing experience that calms and restores disharmony in the energy fields of the body. You can almost feel the tension and the burden of everyday concerns melt away.

POLARITY THERAPY I can attest to the Polarity Therapy treatment as I was fortunate recently to experience it. Sharon’s feather like touch scanned my body reaching blocked currents in the body’s energy field, and at one place in particular, she touched a spot that dramatically resonated to her touch with a gentle but almost electrifying reaction. I assessed this to mean that there may be severe blocking of energy in that area as well in other places. After the session I felt light and euphoric. I now realize that the power of gentle professional touch can truly improve the quality of life by clearing and balancing Chakra/energy centers, relieve pain, activate the body’s natural ability to heal itself, relieve stress and release toxins or impurities, to name a few.

ENERGETIC BLISS, Natural Health Care for Women, focuses on your total well-being in treatments that soothe your senses, restore your body and replenish your spirit. Energetic Bliss is located at 121 Newark Ave., Suite 402, Downtown Jersey City, NJ 07302. Tel. 971.239.8479 or sharon@energetic bliss.com By appointment only. Visit her Web Site at www.energeticbliss.com

GET UP!!! SITTING KILLS (c) By Polly Guerin

The computer is like a magnet once you sit down and start working most individuals with long hours of task work never get up. What’s more according to the American Cancer Society “the more people log in a chair, the greater their risk of early death.” WHEW!!! Even if you exercise regularly you are still at risk. Stationary ways of spending hours at a time in a chair has proven to be the worst thing you could do to endanger your well-being. Quite frankly, I declare, it is frightening to admit but your chair is sure to kill you.

DANGEROUS SIDE AFFECTS The excesses of sitting in a chair all day can really turn your body into an ugly mess; sitting inflates your spare tire, lowers levels of beneficial HDI, and raises levels of inflammation and blood fats. Researchers at Mayo Clinic confirmed that sitting for extended hours, without taking a few “get up” and walk around breaks, could face the onslaught of illness including heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes and thrombosis. Back problems are another result of excessive sitting; nerve damage and other problems including neck pain. Dr. Scott Keller, Caycean Chiropractor at  Edgar Cayce's A.R.E. New York Center confirmed, "Long periods of inactivity, particularly sitting, cause pressure on the inter-vertebral discs, which then result in predispositioning the body to injury and degeneration of the discs." He also explains that many of his patients complain of severe muscle spasms in their shoulders and lower backs and that are attributed to long periods of inactivity.

GETTING OFF YOUR DUFF Well, as I am writing this article I just took my own advice and got out of my chair; did a few head rolls and stretch exercises . I also have my printer placed away from my desk thereby requiring me to get out of my chair to retrieve a print out. Don’t text your colleague in the next office; get out of your chair and pay them a visit or go to the office kitchen and take a mini break with a glass of iced or hot tea. Standing, especially when talking on the telephone, can give you another life-saving break up from the chair. Set a reminder to get out of your chair at regular intervals. Trainer Sean Hyson suggests NakedAlarmClock.com, which lets you schedule a recurring prompt on your pc. Airline travelers taking long flights are also cautioned to get up and walk around in order to avoid leg thrombosis.


Remember active bodies mean active brains so don’t let your brain get sluggish and your body bloat. SAVING YOUR LIFE is as SIMPLE as GETTING OUT OF YOUR CHAIR AND MOVING AT REGULAR INTERVALS! BELIEVE ME IT’S WORTH THE EFFORT, SO GET OFF YOUR DUFF NOW!!! Edgar Cayce's A.R.E. New York Center, the American Association for Research and Enlightenment of New York Inc. is located at 241 West 30th Street, 2nd floor (btw.7th 7 8th Ave.) New York, N.Y. 10001. Tel: 212-691-7690.    edgarcaycenyc.org

SMILING MAY SAVE YOUR LIFE (c) By Polly Guerin

“Smile Though Your Heart is Aching, Light Up Your Face with Gladness” As the refrain laments, frequent smiling may even lengthen your life. Yes, smiling can be good for your health, but it has to come naturally or with practice become a daily ritual. Why? Because a smile brings certain benefits; with each and every broad smile you give to each day's encounter your stress zone calms down. What’s more, in social situations smiling is one of the easiest ways to win over new acquaintances who will perceive your personality as one who is friendly and open to conversation. When it comes to greeting and meeting business associates a polite smile, even in the board room, can give you the upper hand and open up the discussion. A full smile uses the muscles around the mouth and eyes and that is good news because the more you engage in a full smile and happier you will be for it.

IT’S HARD TO SMILE FEELING BLUE yet, with practice you can conjure up a smile and feel the clouds of sadness or melancholia soften and disappear. However, you have to evoke a genuine full smile to get full benefits. The face like any other part of the body is made up of bones, blood vessels, connective tissue, fat, nerves and voluntary muscles (twenty-six). If the muscles of the body can be brought back to tone, so can the muscles of the face and by the same means: smiling and exercise. Of course, positive thinking is another factor that can be reflected in your face. One expert claims that blowing up balloons and making faces can tone the face. For starters, try on a full smile, commonly referred to as a Duchenne smile, after the 19th century French neurologist who first described it, which activates major muscles around the eyes and mouth.

WHO WROTE THE LYRICS? Most people are surprised to learn that the music to this favorite was written by the legendary silent film star Charlie Chaplin, whose “Little Tramp” character is one of the all time enduring images of the silent film era. DA Jack Hayford, editor of the popular music reference website, Events-in-Music said, “Chaplin wrote the theme music for his silent film, Modern Times, released in 1936. But the song did not become known as “Smile” until lyrics were added by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons in 1954. It took off and reached the #10 spot on the Billboard charts the same year when it was recorded by Nat King Cole. “Smile” has been recorded and released countless times, including Tony Bennett/Barbra Streisand collaboration on Bennett’s 2006 Duets album.”

SO LIGHTEN UP YOUR FACE WITH GLADNESS. REMEMBER PEOPLE WHO SMILE MORE NOT ONLY UPLIFT THEIR LIFE WITH GREATER HAPPINESS THEIR SMILE TENDS TO HAVE A REAL POSITIVE IMPACT ON OTHER PEOPLE.

SMILE FACTOR: Happiness (c) by Polly Guerin

People don’t seem to smile enough these days. I can just feel the tension building up and it’s only 8 a.m., and everyone is rushing to work and their faces are devoid of the inner light of smiling as they pursue a new day. Yet, when you smile, it lightens your mood, helps you to buffer an awkward situation, and invites you to make new friends. Most of all smiling improves your happiness and attracts more positive vibes into your life. Smiling also crosses all borders and when you are in another country people generally respond to tourists who smile. It sends a message that you are friendly and non-threatening.

THE POSITIVE VIBE When you smile your body and mind are sending positive vibes to you that everything is okay, life is great, and it help you to alleviate feeling down and depressed. So even when you’re alone practice smiling more and continue during the day to spread happiness vibes to everyone you meet. I’ve heard people say, “Isn’t she a nice person,” all because you brightened their day with your generosity, the gift of a smile, which at the same time it makes you feel great too.

A CHEERY SMILE Makes you appear younger because your whole face lights up, your eyes glow, your cheeks get a natural uplift and your whole countenance is one of youthful vigor. Don’t ever force it, a fake smile doesn’t work. Just think of pleasant things, conjure up a recent happy celebration, a present that amazed you, a compliment that gave you reason to feel appreciated; and smile.

A MOMENT OF KINDNESS There are many opportunities to be spontaneous and engage in an unexpected moment of kindness that garners smiles for everyone. If your basket is full at the checkout counter, let the person behind you with one item go before you, when you purchase a newspaper from the old guy on the corner let him keep the change, send an encouraging note card to a needy friend and watch smiles beam at the other end.

WEAR CLOTHES THAT SMILE Black may be sophisticated, but when I see an entire wardrobe in the gloomy shade I think funeral. Instead choose colors that represent the color of happiness. Blue is a heavenly color and has a calming effect, while red glares and may insight anger. Warm colors like yellow and orange are friendlier choices and should be incorporated into your wardrobe as a signal that you are friendly and that your smile is genuine.

SMILING MAY NOT MAKE MAJOR ISSUES GO AWAY; IT JUST HELPS TO EASE THE PAIN. SMILING HAS HEALTH BENEFITS, TOO AND CAN MAKE YOU FEEL MUCH BETTER EMOTIONALLY BECAUSE IT RELEASES ENDORPHINS, BRAIN CHEMICALS THAT HELP TO INCREASE HOUR FEELING OF CONTENTMENT. SO, AS THEY SAY “SMILE THOUGH YOUR HEART IS BREAKING,” remember those feeling are only temporary. DON’T LET THEM BE SETBACKS, INSTEAD SMILE YOUR WAY THROUGH EVERY DAY’S CHALLENGES.

SEAGLASS, THE MESSAGE IS IN THE SEA (c) By Polly Guerin

The Message is in the Rainbow, my book on the powerful psychology of color as it affects mind, body and spirit, also includes the rainbow of colors that emerge from the sea as seaglass; those broken pieces of glass that travel from faraway lands and crash up on the shoreline of beaches. You may have to wait until summer to discover sea glass on a sandy beach, but at times when seaglass is not readily available, you can purchase, color transparencies, in an art supply store. Like seaglass. these color transparencies help you to discover the power of color and its amazing affect on your mind.
RICH RED VIBRATIONS Remember the saying, ‘The red badge of color’? Well, red is a strong seaglass color that promotes courage and represents the life force of powerful energy itself. When you are feeling lackluster wear red to perk up your spirits and stimulate your mind. Red awakens our creativity and pulsates with emotional characteristics. The Swiss painter, Ferdinand Hodler, for example, attributed symbolic meaning to the colors in his paintings and associated red with passion. To re-energize your outlook gaze upon red seaglass to evoke more passion for living life to its fullest with boundless energy. If pink seaglass washes up on shore it will bring with it more love into your life.
ORANGE UPBEAT I always think of an orange creamscile on a stick with its juicy orange outer coat and soft creamy inside; it brings back the joy of remembering a carefree summer day. This color is the most emotionally warming and cheerful color on the spectrum. As you lull away a summer’s day look into orange colored sea glass and feel the happiness well up and your creativity surge. Orange governs happiness, confidence and resourcefulness. As you gaze into the depths of orange seaglass feel recharged as the self-assured; the enthusiastic and happy person you are, spreading cheer all around.
YELLOW BRIGHTENS ANY DAY To continue on a happy note and keep your mood sunny surround yourself with yellow; it is a creative color that provides you with increased awareness and curiosity. As you gaze into the sparking yellow seaglass absorb the vibrations of confidence and self-worth increase. For an extra dose of feel-good take yellow to heart and notice how yellow energy connects to your mental outlook. Some may say, “You have a sunny disposition,” and you know immediately that happy yellow brightens any day and anyone who comes into your yellow orbit feels the benefit of your optimism.
LOVABLE GREEN Green is the great connector to unconditional love and balances your whole being. Gazing at green seaglass therefore relaxes your muscles and gives you a feeling of renewal, harmony and peace. When people say, “She is green with envy,” that means he or she is envious of your serene persona that seems so much in tune with everything around you that brings with it vibrations of understanding, sympathy, compassion and love. The ancient Greeks revered green as the most fruitful of all hues, and the renewal of every spring’s verdant green display of hope, calm and in the green cast shadows trees silhouetted on a lake. Green is a color that also brings prosperity to the beholder.
BLUE, THE COLOR OF SPIRIT This is a mentally-relaxing color fused with serenity and calming vibrations. Just gazing at blue seaglass evokes more confidence, clarity and improves communication and speech. Blue is associated with the feel-good sky. Think of the refrain, “My Blue Heaven,” and find yourself pacified by the sea and the sky captured in the blue seaglass from foreign shores. The Swiss painter, Ferdinand Hodler attributed blue with spirituality and in blue seaglass we find the same spirit of holiness manifested in loyal and trustworthy characteristics.
CROWNING GLORY: VIOLET/PURPLE On a higher note of beauty, creativity and inspiration, gazing at violet/purple seaglass represents the union of your higher self with spirituality and brings with it guidance, wisdom and inner strength to fulfill your destiny by enhancing artistic talent, creativity and innovation. Indigo, a deep richer, almost midnight purple, often sweeps up on the shore from exotic lands. Just gaze at its deep color to strengthens intuition, imagination, psychic powers and ability to dream more vividly.

TREASURES FROM THE SEA, SEAGLASS TOSSED ON THE SHORE LINE; ALL FREELY SENT FROM DISTANT LANDS, BRINGS MESSAGES ABOUT THE POWER OF COLOR.

GRATITUDE and ATTITUDE (c) By Polly Guerin

On the aftermath of the hurricane, Sandy, there is no better time than the present to offer up expressions of gratitude. Even despite grave losses that so many have suffered there are still viable reasons why gratitude is such a healing benefit; for it reminds us how truly fortunate we are to still be here to acknowledge our gainful presence in the world. Our mind is so powerful it creates the reality in which we live in. The old adage said it all, ‘What we think is what we create.’ Dwelling on losses, disappointment and despair over world conditions fosters negativity and if we think negative thoughts, the Universe will always mirror this back to us.
HEALING TOOL OF THE MIND Gratitude, therefore, transcends our vibrations to a level where pain and suffering cannot exist. So being grateful and thanking the creator opens up a positive feeling in the physical body and fills the enlightened person with light. Therefore, stewards of the family or teachers who express gratitude and ‘thank you’ create love and positive feelings that affect everyone around them, especially children. When a person holds onto negative thoughts about themselves or others, they only fill their body with toxic feelings which can result in physical or emotional trauma.
PINK BUBBLE LOVE Whenever someone acts improperly and offends my friend Tony Carroll Terman says, “Put them in an imaginary pink bubble of love and send them on their way with positive thoughts of healing their negativity.” It seems to me that that is sound advice. In other words, let the slings and arrows of outrageous conduct never overtake you, just send people with those thoughts off to enlightenment in the pink bubble. When you choose to be positive and go forward with an attitude of gratitude, you create harmony and happy vibes in everyone you meet. Consider yourself an ambassador of love and positive thinking.
ENTERTAINING HURT Some people never seem to want to let it go. Conjuring up old hurts and disappointments keeps them rooted in negativity and their health can be affected, even their physical demeanor. They may not realize it, but when they are in a negative zone their life is in jeopardy of not meeting the right people or finding the right circumstances to co-exist. However, when anyone is positive they become a powerful communicator that spreads harmony with whomever you come in contact with.
FORGIVE AND FORGET That’s the golden rule for existing as a healthy and happy person. If a relative or someone isn’t interested in your friendship, despite your friendly calls, don’t fret, just know that it is out of your hands to make amends. Let them be, and instead you should cheerfully go on your way associating with people who really love you. The attitude of gratitude should be applied to every single thing in your world where positive energies move you forward to create a full and healthy lifestyle. Be thankful and say, “Thank you for my family for my friends, my environment and the food I eat and the bed I sleep in.” The list of ‘thank yous’ can get quite long extending through the place where you work and the people there, to social activities you engage in. Once you start the list you’ll find it amazing just how much you have to be grateful for. Best Advice: Get in the habit of gratitude and reap the benefit of contentment.

PETS KEEP US HEALTHY (c) By Polly Guerin

I am always amazed how people react to my little poodle dog, Colby. A smile instantly comes over their grime city face and they sometimes ask, “Can I pet him?” Well, these little furry angels dispense a whole wealth of canine therapy to make us feel happy and less stressed. However, people in different age groups benefit from pets in different ways. It’s a well known fact that therapy dogs and even cats are already dispensing love and comfort in hospitals and long term care facilities and nursing homes, not to mention being a great distraction from feeling ill. Studies verify these facts and have shown that having a pet has a positive impact on physical and emotional health.
THE FEEL-GOOD CURE It’s been recognized by the sage medical doctors and therapists that pets can improve your life by bringing unconditional love, not to mention providing a constant and comforting companion. No wonder there has been a surge in dog ownership. You do not need a doctor’s prescription to reap the benefits of animal communication, just own a pet of your own. However, if your lease has a ‘no pets’ policy you can still interact and get some puppy love at your local animal shelter. At the same time your volunteer time there will give some love back to needy animals waiting for adoption.
PET PRESCRIPTION So when you’re feeling blue, stressed out, and tied in knots take time out and just communicate with your pet. They welcome pets and it's amazing how they listen so intently. However, you need to consider just how much time you can spend with the animal. Although a pet, especially interacting with a dog, can help to relieve stress, if you do not have the time to devote to a pet, you can cause the animal great stress and anxiety, even excessive barking while you are away too long.
TRAVEL/VACATION ARRANGEMENTS If your work requires travel you also have to know what arrangements can be made to take care of the animal during the time you are away on business or during time away on vacation. Many dog groomer businesses also offer overnight and even weekly accommodation in their facilities, but this service is usually quite costly. If you are lucky enough to have a relative who will accommodate your pet in their home, while you are away, that would be a feel-safe advantage.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS While many people acquire their pet through a private breeder or a reliable pet store, there are also many dogs and cats in animal shelters with pedigree breeding. I highly recommend you investigate what kind of dog or cat is available there first or look up ‘rescue sites’ on the Internet for a specific breed you are interested in. There are also financial considerations like costs for pet food, grooming and veterinary care. These costs of pet maintenance can be expensive but I opt for reasonable clinics like the Humane Society of New York’s clinic on East 59th Street in New York City.

Since Scientific studies prove that petting your dog increases the level of pleasure hormones and lowers the stress hormone this may be the time to get one of these furry angels of your own.

CELLPHONES CAN MAKE YOU SICK (c) By Polly Guerin

Electronic devices---cellphones, IPhones and Blackberrys may be the source of modern communications but they are also the reason a lot of people are getting sick. Really? You ask. Can this be so? Yes, indeed, these modern tools of convenience also bring and harbor germs with them. According to a medical study bacteria from a phone can cause flu, pinkeye and even diarrhea. Germs are lurking everywhere and people need to be careful about sharing photos with strangers. Even members of a family sharing phones can transfer germs between one another. The proximity of a cellphone to your ears, nose and mouth are the perfect environment for germs to lurk undetected.

THE HEALTH RISK Once it was thought that all we needed to do was to wash our hands to safeguard our health, but most everyone is at risk today. Even though you may clean your computer, pens, keys and landline phones very little thought seems to go into cleaning cell phones, which attract bacteria in an unsuspecting but alarming rate. The cause can be attributed to the fact that these devices have become like extra appendages to one’s body. People take them everywhere---plugged into their ear on the street, to the health club, to the restaurant and even into public bathrooms. There the greedy little cell phones zap up bacteria in an alarming rate.

CLEAN IT NOW You don’t go anywhere without your electronics so keep it clean and remove dirt, grim, fingerprints or facial oils, and ladies ‘makeup,’ that may prevent your smart phone from working properly because of the germ buildup. It is important to ‘not’ use the usual household products to clean electronics, but to find a line of cleaners intended specifically for electronic devices. In any case to sanitize the product it is best to read the advice in the manufacturer’s manual. It usually cautions about using aerosol sprays, solvents, alcohol, ammonia or abrasives, all of which may harm screens.

BE A HAPPY-GO-EVERYWHERE ELECTRONIC USER BUT KEEP IN STEP WITH YOUR HEALTH AND FIND PRODUCTS SPECIFICALLY FOR MOBILE PHONE CLEANING.

TEA TREE OIL'S ANTISEPTIC QUALITIES (c) By Polly Guerin

What is Tea Tree Oil? Good Question! It’s a wild bushy tree native to Australia, and  it is one of the most powerful elixirs of nature and one of its most active essential oils, The Aborigines knew about the properties of the tea tree long before European settlers had ever heard of it. It was Captain Cook who first mentions the tea tree and its healing properities in his journal during the 1770s, after the Aborigines showed him how to make tea from its leaves. Yet, when we go into the a health store today there is a plethora of products to purchase with tea tree property benefits.If you have never purchased any Tea Tree  perhaps  now is the time to consider the value of Tea Tree's antiseptic qualities, which also makes it an essential ingredient in aromatherapy medicine.
CLEANSING NATURALLY Tea Tree ranks high among natural products that produce proven results. It is valued for its stimulating and germicidal actions and refreshing camphor-like scent. Tea Tree's natural benefits stimulate the immune system by activating the white blood corpuscles to defend the body against infections. You can actually prevent germs spreading because Tea Tree is the only antiseptic that also acts to stimulate and tone our natural defenses against infection.
COLD SEASON COMING ON If there’s a cold going around your office or threatening the health of the entire family, begin before it starts to catch up with you and wash your hands in tea tree soap to eliminate germs. Washing your hands is obviously a good idea anytime your hands have been in contact with public places, like on a bus or subway car. Preventive precautions can help you to chase away cold and flu with a facial steam. Just add 10 drops of tea tree and 5 drops of eucalyptus and inhale deeply.
A MYRIAD USES Tea Tree seems to have many other unexpected benefits. If you want to acquire a blemish-free complexion a tea tree facial steam will also unblock pores and clear up infection. Antifungal tea tree is especially effective for clearing up infections such as athlete’s foot. You can even treat nail infections by massaging the affected nail with undiluted tea tree oil three times a day. Nothing greets the morning better than a refreshing mouthwash. Simply add 3 percent solution of tea tree to water. It also fights gum disease and clears up mouth ulcers.
TEA TREE IS INDISPENSABLE OIL!!! KEEP TEA TREE WITH YOU WHEN YOU TRAVEL TO WARMER CLIMATES TO SOOTHE SUNBURN, CUTS AND BRUISES. APPLY IT UNDILUTED TO STINGS AND BITES FOR SWIFT PAIN RELIEF.

HAPPY GO LIGHTLY EVERYDAY (c) By Polly Guerin

My friend Tony is a delight and every time I meet her it’s an uplifting experience. She possesses something that eludes many people, It’s the “The Happiness Factor,” Doesn’t it make you wonder, “How does she do it?” Well, with Tony it just seems to come naturally to her because she just doesn’t let negativity enter her brain and that is why she looks years younger and really, really enjoys life.
MOOD BUSTER As summer becomes a distant memory, hormone output plunges, triggering an uptick in pessimism. Don’t let it get you down relax at home and cozy up in something soft like pj’s or fuzzy socks. For the office, take along a sweater or soft jacket with the soothing comfort of lofty polyester warmth. Yale University researchers say snugly fabrics activate nerves in the skin and fire off feel-good messages.
HAPPINESS TIPS Even if you wake up and feel out of sorts, or work gets you down you can literally talk yourself into a happier mood. Put positive affirmation messages on heart-shaped Post-its around the house or on your computer screen, like “I Feel Pretty,” “Life is Marvelous,” and even “I love my Work.” Okay that last one is a bit extreme, but you get the point. Better yet change your password to happier messages, like “Hello Awesome.” Experts say that to feel better you need to focus on the positive and by taking an optimistic attitude each day it promotes the promise of happy vibes.
SELF ANALYSIS Never allow yourself to wallow in self-pity or to dwell unnecessarily on disappointments, delays, broken promises. When you’re caught in traffic jam or your computer crashes why fume and stress yourself out of your comfort zone. Take a deep breath and engage yourself in some self-compassion to soften the blow and know that in time it will all be resolved and that momentarily there is nothing you can do about it anyway. However, you can change how you address the problem by training your brain to focus on the posit
 FAN MAIL REMINDERS If you ever doubt about just how wonderful you are pull out those birthday cards and reread all the sentimental prose that praised you and made you feel special. Save your fan mail in a separate folder and when the slightest hint of negativity looms re-read how much you have touched the lives of other people by your compassion or help. Better yet, make a list of all the positive things that happened in just one day. Read the list out loud and repeat each item over again and be amazed about how much good has come into your life.

IT’S TIME TO BE GOOD TO YOURSELF AND SPEND LESS TIME DWELLING ON THINGS THAT CANNOT BE CHANGED AND ADAPT TO THE SITUATION WITH POSITIVE VIBES THAT WILL GET YOU THROUGH ANOTHER SPLENDID DAY.

MIND OVER MUSIC, A HEALTHY BRAIN (c) By Polly Guerin

Remember how uplifting you felt when you listened to a symphony program in a concert hall? Do you remember how you were transported away into the land of your imagination, free of the cares of the day and spirited on with sound stimulation into unknown realms of peaceful contemplation and happiness? That is what music does; it’s a transformational process, a modern sound healing technique that has been given the modern name of Solfeggio, which in musical terms represents the tones of a melody.
VIBRATIONAL ENERGY Although science does not recognize Solfeggio as a healing tool, traditional healers and modern String Theory recognize that every living body carries vibrational energy. That is why we feel so rejuvenated after listening to a music performance. Its restorative energy vibrations influence the physical body to heal itself,  induce relaxation, soothe frayed nerves and restore equilibrium.
ANCIENT SOFEGGIO Even in the Temple Beautiful in Egypt ancient Soffeggio used music and chanting to balance, curtail illness and balance the physical body. Vibrational energy, the tones of the musical scale each have their own specific relationship to the Chakras and the meridians and sound healers today frequently use ‘new age’ music to enhance health and wellness.
SOUND HEALING TODAY While informed individuals continue to seek alternative methods to heal, the growth of energy healers has expanded with solutions to de-stress, detoxify and bring the individual into total well being. For best results, seek out a qualified sound healer. There are CDs on the market now that address different issues like consciousness expansion, awakening intuition, relationship harmonization and meditation. Even in rehabilitation centers music has been the tool that awakens seniors who have been silent for years.
RESEARCH HITS A HIGH NOTE Now an MIT team has created music software to help diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Users compose songs and then play a Concentration-like game that involves recalling excerpts of melody pairs and other memory tasks. You can track your own results and watch for signs of more serious cognitive decline. “If Alzheimer’s can be detected early, medication and mental exercises have a better chance of stabilizing memory loss or at least slowing down the progressions,” says one of the software’s creators, Adam Boulanger, Ph.D. Although the software is in clinical trials, researchers hope to release a commercial version to the public within a year.

WHEN JULIE ANDREWS SINGS ‘THE HILLS ARE ALIVE WITH THE SOUND OF MUSIC’ WE CAN VICARIOUSLY HEAR THE MELODY AND THROUGH SOUND HEALING BEGIN TO FEEL REJUVENATED AND YOUNG AT HEART AGAIN.

EGGS, CODDLED IF YOU PLEASE (c) By Polly Guerin

When is the last time that you ordered ‘coddled eggs’ at your favorite diner? Imagine the surprise on the face of the waiter who, unless he was British, would think you daft. Well, I never heard of coddled eggs before so being the type of person who likes to be coddled, “pampered and handled with care,” so says the dictionary, I looked into this fascinating culinary art, which incidentally goes way, way back to the 1800s and remains popular in Great Britain. Great chefs’ use coddled eggs to make sweet custard, but they are also used in a traditional Caesar salad dressing recipe.
DEMYSTIFYING CODDLED EGGS At this point you may justifiable ask, “Just what is this coddled fancy anyway?” Well, a coddled egg is somewhat similar to a poached egg but there is quite a difference in the preparation. If you’re a good poacher then you know that all you need to do is to crack open the egg and place it into water just below the boiling point. However, a single degree too high in hot water, eggsperts say, is all it takes to upset the delicate balance of texture, appearance and flavor. A coddled egg, on the other hand, should be immersed slowing in its shell in near boiling water. Carefully watch over this little treasure and let it stand for 5 minutes, then take it out, crack the shell and consume.
A HEALTH SEER’S ADVISORY In over 140 readings Edgar Cayce advised individuals to make coddled eggs a part of their diet as the perfect solution for benefiting from the egg’s considerable nutritional potential. Because coddled eggs are not boiled, some people may be concerned of the risk of salmonella and other bacteria. Therefore, it is recommended to use only very, very fresh eggs. The way an egg is cooked, as well as an individual’s physical condition, may determine whether the egg should be eaten whole or only the yoke. In one reading Cayce recommended eating, “Coddled egg and only the yoke of same, not the white---for this carries too much of those properties that are hard for digestion, or too much albumin that is producing an irritation in the adrenal gland secretion and the glands in the pelvis area. (844-1)
EGG CODDLER COLLECTIONS Quite recently I visited a charming lady who had a fascinating collection of little porcelain pots with metal lids, which at first I thought held some cosmetic secret or might be used for a chocolate, pot de crème. So wrong was I to discover that those little pots with painted flowers or other whimsical designs were "Egg Coddlers." Coddlers have been manufactured by Royal Worcester in Worcester, UK, since at least the 1890s, and were probably invented there. Many companies now make egg coddlers, and some are highly sought after collector’s items.
EGG CODDLER HOSPITALITY And so the aforementioned lady promptly made a coddled egg for me. She buttered the sides and bottom of a pretty egg coddler and gently broke an egg into it and seasoned it on top, then gently screwed on the little lid and lowered the egg coddler into a pot of near boiling water. “Make sure that the water level only reaches halfway up the porcelain body of the coddler,” she advised, “and the egg coddler should not be totally submerged in the water. There it should rest for about 5-6 or 7-8 minutes, depending on the size of the egg.” She then lifted the egg coddler from the pot, gently twisted the lid and served it to me at the table. Delicious!!! Especially when she sprinkled on some salmon flakes and a bit of parsley.

DON’T YOU DESERVE TO GET CODDLED? IF ‘FOOD BE ELIXIR OF LOVE’ CODDLED EGGS ARE A RARE AND DELICIOUS WAY TO IMPRESS YOUR GUESTS. ENJOY!!!

HEALTH: THE BIG BRUSH OFF(c) By Polly Guerin

It’s amazing how much dry skin you’re carrying around on your body. Some dry skin makes us feel itchy; some of it stifles the skin’s excretion process of toxins and may even contribute to premature wrinkles on the body. Dry skin brushing is probably something you have never heard off, and neither did I until I read about this ancient health routine that has more benefits than a shower or bath each day. Dry skin brushing of the entire body sets in motion natural healing by stimulating nerve beds, which increases the normal healing processes throughout the entire body. Most significantly dry skin brushing helps to detoxify the body.  STAGNANT LIFESTYLES This technique should be especially of interest to individuals who spend most of their workday stagnant in a chair and glued to the computer screen, and toxins set in as well as a pain in the neck, shoulder or back. As for the fashionistas reading this health report there may be some additional benefit because dry skin brushing may help in the breakdown of cellulite. The overall benefit of dry skin brushing is that circulation improves, your skin becomes softer and glowing and you will feel refreshed and invigorated. 
DRY SKIN BRUSHING PROCESS Okay, I think I’ve got you interested. All you need is a natural bristle brush, with a long handle. The process is painless and there is no cost involved except a fraction of your time. Now you are ready to get started. Stand in the tub prior to taking a shower or sit on a tub chair prior to bathing. Take the natural bristle brush and begin brushing your skin. Begin the process at the bottom of your feet sweeping upwards onto the legs, move to the torso and hips again in an upward direction with a focus towards the heart so that toxins can be released. Turn the brush onto the hands and sweep upwards towards the shoulders. The long handled dry brush will help you reach your backside so start at the feet again and begin the process, and when you have finished bath or shower. No, do not use a long handled natural brush on your face. Purchase a softer natural brush for your delicate complexion.
THE BENEFITS OF DRY SKIN BRUSHING Don’t expect results immediately. Dry skin brushing should become a daily routine for lymphatic cleansing that will return your skin to a healthy glow and you’ll look and feel younger and healthier. Yes, there are products at retail that tout some of the same benefits, but why purchase one when all you need is a natural dry bristle long handled brush and your time to feel and look great! When the body rids itself of toxins, you are able to perform efficiently. Dry skin brushing helps to shed dead skin cells. It can help to improve skin texture and cell renewal. It helps to tighten the skin because it increases the flow of blood and it eliminates clogged pores.
THE ANCIENT CURE Remember how wonderful your skin felt after a day rolling in the sand at the beach or dipping into the sandy salt water? That is natural skin brushing without much effort but pleasure. Some native American Indians were ahead of the concept and scrubbed their skin with sand from river bottoms. Skin brushing is an ancient remedy. The Scandinavians had been using loofah sponges as do the Japanese as a prelude to a hot sauna or hot bath. Greek athletes used skin scrapers to clean the skin and encourage circulation. So take a cue from the ancients and start brushing your body today.
DRY SKIN BRUSHING IS A SIMPLE DETOXIFICATION TECHNIQUE THAT ANYONE CAN USE DAILY TO IMPROVE AND ENCOURAGE HEALTHEIR WHOLE BODY WELLNESS.

SOAP SOLUTIONS, CAYCE'S BEAUTY ADVISORY(c) By Polly Guerin

To soap or not to soap? That is the question many women ask and have often sought an answer to from the great man himself, Edgar Cayce. With all the readings Cayce was giving you would not think that he would have time to even consider this question, but ‘surprise,’ he did. It’s amazing to realize that an ordinary bar of soap like Black and White, Cuticura, Palma Christi, Olivae and a whole host of organic bars could have so many benefits for maintaining one’s complexion and treat common skin problems. While extensive expense has been doled out by women to remove the grime/makeup from their faces and to cleanse their bodies, sometimes it’s just a simple bar of soap that can achieve a healthy, youthful glow and help to counteract even facial flaws. Referring to pure products Cayce’s reading noted, “These preparations are preferable to most of the compounds that carry leads or poisonous conditions for the skin.” (2154-1) BEAUTY IS ONLY SKIN DEEP Even Edgar Cayce acknowledged that “Beauty is only skin deep,” saying “Don’t depend upon cosmetics to clear or purify the skin. The cosmetics should be rather as an aid to keeping the superficial circulation in portions of face and hands in bettered conditions.” (5271-1) Cayce further stated that a healthy, radiant epidermis depends not on external applications alone and cannot be achieved without proper diet and nutrition, exercise, and a positive attitude over mind, body and spiritual outlook because genuine beauty comes from within, rather than an external condition. ONE SOAP TO LIVE BY While many women rely on some expensive commercial products to maintain their complexion’s flawless look or to camouflage skin flaws several soap brands have been mentioned in the Cayce Readings that perform far more reasonably. How about $6 a bar? Now that’s a bargain for beauty yet no fancy name is associated with genuine Black and White soap so you will not find it in a fancy cosmetic department. However, according to Cayce genuine Black & Whit e soap is an excellent cleansing soap for skin care and bathing. It has been recommended for skin problems such as acne, pimples, blackheads, eczema, itching burning and stinging skin. In a reading Cayce said, “These will keep the irritations from making the openings, or large pores.” (3081-1) INTRODUCED IN THE 1930s Genuine Black & White products have been around since the 1930s with staying power over 80 years. That’s endorsement enough for me to seek further information. Cayce also recommended Black and White cosmetics, which include cold cream, cleansing cream, skin whitener, vanishing cream, and ointment. Another reading stated, these are “the better products for the protection or care of skin, complexion.” (275-31) For anyone over 50 the good news is that Black and White preparations help to firm the muscles in the face and neck and prevent the looseness throughout the body. TRIED AND TRUE STANDBYS I remember Cuticura soap, it was in regular use in my mother’s cabinet for its deep cleansing and anti-bacterial ingredients that condition skin with practical treatment for skin abrasions, eczema, large pores. It was among the first soaps commercially introduced in 1865 and is still sold today as an antibacterial medicated soap that cleans and controls oil and germs that can cause blemishes. Then there is the Palma Christi soap, a natural cleansing bar custom formulated with softening, moisturizing properties of Castor oil, Almond oil, Lanolin, aloe Vera and Cocoa butter for allover cleansing. French Milled, Castile soap is another household favorite. It is an olive-oil based soap was first manufactured in Castile, Spain, hence it’s name. Olive oil has a long history. It has been a part of beautification rituals since ancient Egypt and Italian women have known of its benefits for centuries. A French milled version called, Olivae, has been specifically formulated with cocoa butter, olive oil, sweet almond oil, Aloe Vera and Lanolin to moisturize as it cleans. The use of any particular soap, however, remains an individual choice. One woman’s favorite standby may not be another woman’s or man’s solution. What is useful in maintaining a glowing complexion, moisturizing or combating skin flaws for one person may not be as effective for another person’s skin.
Products mentioned here can be purchased at the Association for Research and Enlightenment (A.R.E.) of New York Inc, 241 W. 30th Street, New York, NY 10001, email info@edgarcaycenyc.org or visit www.edgarcaycenyc.org. BAAR, the official supplier of Edgar Cayce Health Care Products can be reached at 1.877.999.2502. Visit their ‘easy-to-shop’ Web Site: www.baar.com.

CAYCE'S LIVING YOUNG ADVICE (c) By Polly Guerin

Every woman can become beautiful, every man attractive but the mind plays a pivotal role in maintaining youthfulness. Edgar Cayce the great American prophet ought to know. Although most of his 'Readings' concerned health matters he had also doled out beauty advice to individuals who were seeking information on therapies for Living Young in all aspects of their life. In one of his astute readings Cayce said, “If we would have life, give it. If we would have love, make ourselves lovely. If we would have beauty within our lives, make our lives beautiful. If we would have beauty in body or mind, or soul, create that atmosphere, and that which brings about life itself will bring those (same) forces into the experience. (2096-1).
WHAT WAS CAYCE SAYING? Obviously feeling young and looking good is up to you. As an individual we have the responsibility to ‘make our lives beautiful’ by making a commitment to create an attitude, a lifestyle and an environment that reflects beauty in our daily experience and encounter with others. This commitment will not only contribute to staying youthful in appearance but will make your journey here one of definitive purpose and soul fulfillment.
MAKING THE MOST OF IT Such a daily routine is the foundation of a youthful appearance. While we acknowledge that true beauty comes from within, from the beauty of the soul, there is nothing wrong with beautifying the body in which the soul swells. In other words Cayce advised that one need not be vain or frivolous in caring for the body, but they should make the most of what they have. Even a wallflower with proper grooming can emerge like a rose. Moreover, the Cayce readings are replete with advice and remedies for all aspects of achieving and maintaining a more beautiful you. He addressed some vexing concerns like care of complexion, remedies for skin blemishes, hair, baldness and dandruff, care of nails and feet. Achieving a beautiful mind and keeping the body young demands a rigorous daily regime that includes the Cayce diet, regular exercise, meditation and a positive outlook. Such a daily routine is the foundation of a youthful appearance. Any girl or woman who adheres to this beauty advice can improve her health and beautify her appearance.
MIND OVER MATTER Cayce further answered the question, “How can people avoid aging in appearance?” and answered “The Mind!” (1947-4). I had an aunt who was not exactly a beauty, but she followed the Cayce beauty routine with impeccable grooming and conservative but fashionable apparel and before she left her house she looked in a blue tinted mirror that magically dispelled any imperfections. In her mind she was beautiful. As the old adage goes, “Thinking will make it so.” As a matter of fact my real secret to staying youthful and feeling young is more mind-over-matter. Even a little meditation in the morning or a catch up meditation at intervals during the day might focus on all the things you should be grateful for in life. Indeed, you might go to poetryfromtheheartbypollyguerin.blogspot.com and read “Thanksgiving Reverence” for the many things to be grateful for.
So put yourself in a great state of mind and be passionate about everything you do in life, and remember that there are so many wonderful things to remind us that we are truly blessed every day. Such thoughts will keep you feeling young and looking good with a special glow that comes from inner beauty.

YOGA, SHAKE 'N ROLL IN THE SKY (c) By Polly Guerin

Planning a trip to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil was wonderful to anticipate, but the thought of the long flight, nearly 9 hours in a sedentary position, really concerned me particularly how sitting so long would affect the circulation in hips and legs. In preparation for the trip I started to think about ways to relieve the tension from confinement on the long flight. I turned to Yoga as a solution and offer here some suggestions that anyone can adapt for air travel, and if you’re locked at the computer for hours on end in a sedentary job these exercises are easy to do at your desk. Edgar Cayce the renowned American psychic in his readings on health often stressed, “We should do everything in our power to maintain good circulation through exercise.”
BEFORE YOU GO It’s important to prep your body before and after a long flight: drink lots of water, bring a bottle of water to spritz your face and a facial moisturizer, travel light and Ladies avoid restrictive bras, wear loose comfortable clothing instead and slip on shoes, bring a neck pillow to brace your head and a very light blanket to put around your shoulders should the air conditioning be too cold. It is important to start your regime early: before and during the flight eat lightly and avoid salt, alcohol and caffeine. In the airplane cabin don’t cross your legs, it impedes circulation and get up as often as possible and walk about the cabin. If you find a free space stretch, bend over and touch your toes. Sedentary Yoga will help you to maintain good circulation and increase your chances of feeling less stressed and looking ‘band box’ fresh when you arrive.
SEDENTARY YOGA Don’t worry about your seat companion's questionable look. Just say, “Excuse me but in case you’re wondering I’m doing some simple yoga exercises to improve circulation.” With that explained proceed to prep your body for in-flight yoga by getting into the silence in your mind. Close your eyes and visualize the calming color of the blue sky. Start off by centering yourself in the upright seat, feet flat on the floor close your eyes and focus on breathing in an out slowly and meditatively for a few minutes. If you feel uncomfortable about doing in-flight yoga in your seat go to the rest room when it is not busy and do these exercises in privacy.
ROLL AWAY TENSION I always like to begin with Cayce’s head and neck roll exercises which relieve tension and improve circulation to the brain, eyes, face and neck. Do this in slow motion by moving the head to the right shoulder, briefly pause there, then continue around the neck to the left shoulder. You may hear some cracking sounds which is a normal reaction of the body releasing the head and neck from uptight anxiety. Now reverse the head roll starting at the left shoulder. Do this exercise six times in each direction (or more if you desire). Cayce said that the head-and-neck rolls are particularly valuable to relieve muscle tension for people engaged in desk work, typing, piano and other activities (such as sedentary in-flight situations) that strain head, neck, eyes, shoulders, and arms.
SHOULDERING THE PROBLEM Okay, your exercise regime has just taken flight but you need to follow up with the shoulder roll. Children love to do this exercise because it looks so funny but it has tension releasing benefits worthwhile for any adult. In your seat inhale and roll your shoulders up to your ears, hold briefly and then exhale and roll your shoulders down. Again you may hear cracking sounds which only means that tension is being released. Repeat this exercise several times then with arms dangling roll your shoulders forward several times and reverse the action backwards. Hear yourself saying, “Oh, what a relief.” Quite frankly I think the airlines should engage every passenger in yoga in-flight exercises.
ANKLES AWAY It may be a tad difficult to do ankle exercises sitting in your seat but it can be done. Like the head-and-neck rolls start with the right leg and circle the ankle to the right several times and then repeat this action in the opposite direction. This simple exercise on each leg will reve up circulation. Then ever so slightly do the leg lift sitting in your seat. Lift your right leg up briefly hold this position, point toes toward the floor, repeat several times and do the same with the left leg. Now are you ready to walk about the cabin?
WALKING IN THE SKY Remember you’re on a long flight so get out of your seat and walk around the cabin or up and down the aisle. If you can find a space at the back of the airplane do some waist twists to the right and to the left, back and forth, to loosen up the spine. Bend over and touch your toes or dangle at whatever point you feel most comfortable. Rise up and now try to squat and do some knee bends. Embarrassed about such a public display? Want some privacy? When there is a lull in the restroom lineup go inside and do your twists, turns and bends there.
SITTING IN ONE SPOT FOR MORE THAN SIX HOURS WITHOUT RELIEF IS ONE OF THE MAIN CAUSES OF FATIGUE, HEART ATTACKS AND CIRCULATION PROBLEMS. DON’T WORRY ABOUT WHAT ANYONE MAY THINK. WHETHER YOU’RE IN THE SKY OR AT THE OFFICE OR HOME WORK STATION GET UP, GET MOVING, SHAKE AND ROLL YOURSELF INTO GOOD HEALTH!!!

HEALTH ALERT, Sounding the Alarm on Stress (c) by Polly Guerin

It’s not surprising to find that modern men and women today are inundated with an inordinate amount of stress in their daily lives. For one thing the computer has made it easier to log in and communicate any of the time of the day or evening. It seems that everyone including businesses are after your undivided attention. In today’s high tech society we are drawn to our computers and the first thing most of us do at work or in home offices is to boot up the computer and stare in disbelief at the avalanche of e-mails. The inbox commands your attention, riveting you to your seat and the whole morning can be wiped out in just one sitting. Responding to e-mails is also the culprit of stress and a good reason why you should manage your computer time more judiciously. Stress brought on by information overload is a serious matter because the computer can contribute to some serious health concerns.
HEALTH CONCERNS
The renowned American prophet, Edgar Cayce, as well as the medical profession has attributed a great many of physical as well as mental illness to stress. Cayce was quite sensitive to the effect of stress on people and never dismissed anything as “just nerves.” In a reading he said, “The strain between the physical and the mental, with the spiritual attributes of the individual, finds expression not only in the brain itself, but in that of the sympathetic (nervous) system. (4566-1) Other stress diseases include skin disorders, diabetes, colitis, glandular disorders, backache and muscular aches and pains: and arthritis, to name just a few.
INFORMATION OVERLOAD
Information overload is causing incredible amounts of Internet postings to deal with, so much so that it can actually contribute to your working longer hours, which eventually could hinder productivity. Just the thought of looking at the computer screen hour after hour can take its toll on one’s eyesight, posture and general feel-good personality. You could suffer pangs of alienation and everyone around you dares not interrupt. If you become a slave to the Internet its grip on your mind can even sabotage creativity.
RECLAIMING CREATIVITY
When we let the computer run our lives we stop thinking of creating. It is no longer in our heads. Computer driven individuals have a different orientation and stop thinking about making things and using their hands in pastime pursuits. Nature is the best medicine. Get out and interact with nature. Brown bag your lunch, bring a friend and picnic in the park. Instead of staying indoors in stuffy, sweaty gyms, take brisk walks in nature, do some calisthenics and pretend no one is looking. Take up a hobby. I have even noted that men also do needlepoint or knitting. In a reading Cayce admonished as follows: “…budget the time so that there may be regular period for sustaining the physical being and also for sustaining the mental and spiritual being. As it is necessary for recreation and rest for the physical, so it is necessary that there be recreation and rest for the mental.” (3691-1)
Best Advice: Forget about the etiquette books. Remember you do not have to reply to every e-mail

HEALTHY CHOICES...Seeing What's Often Invisible (*) by Polly Guerin

Fairies, Pixies, Brownies, Elves and Sprites

Seeing is believing, but what about expanding your senses to seeing what is often invisible? Since early childhood Edgar Cayce, the great American psychic, could see fairies, sprites, angels and invisible friends. As a child, he thought that everyone could see these figures. He was not alone in the wonder of childhood discovery. Much to the surprise of some parents they are amazed when they realize that their child has an invisible, imaginary friend. I remember a little girl, the daughter of a friend, who enjoyed the presence of an imaginary playmate. She sat in a chair opposite her invisible companion and conversed animatedly with total disregard for any adult present. Sometimes children develop these insights due to being an only child who is left to its own entertainments. Others through the innocence of their childhood have expanded their senses to seeing what is invisible.

SPIRIT ENCOUNTERS

Angels have fared a lot better throughout history and in the tales by the Brothers Grimm and Victorian artists. The evolution of the fairytale continues today and people relate to these invisible guardians embracing angel reality as their own. Angel protectors have become popular while angel motifs proliferate in art, literature, advertising and even fashion. Ghosts have also had their day permeating folklore for centuries and reappearing today in Civil War Re-enactment sites and other historical places. However, what about the fairies, brownies, elves, pixies and sprites? There has been considerable testament to the existence of the invisible visitors. Call them playmates, confidants, loyal friend, but the fascination to connect with these unseen spirits appeals to the child in every adult. Brownies for one are good natured Goblins who perform helpful services at night while Fairies have magical powers and Pixies are a cheerful mischievous sprite. Consider this. “Have we become so myopic that we are unable to connect with the magical world of child-like imagination and to see beyond to what is often invisible?”

GARDEN VARIETY

Edgar Cayce recalls playing in his mother’s garden, “One afternoon my mother came down the garden walk calling to me. My playmate (who appeared to me to be about the same size as myself) was with me. It had never occurred to me that he was not ‘real,” or that he wasn’t one of the neighbors’ children, until my mother spoke and asked me my playmate’s name. I turned to ask him but he disappeared. For a time this disturbed my mother, but this changed considerably when we moved and I later had two favorite places where I played with these unseen people.” With these playmates I gathered colored glass, beautifully colored leaves and things of that nature. What disturbed me was that I didn’t know there they (the playmates) came from or why they retreated when some of my family approached.” This question comes to mind. Could it be that the wee folk, those fairy friends depart as soon as an unbeliever, an adult, comes into their presence, and thereby the magical spell is broken?

FAIRY DWELLINGS

I remember visiting Monhegan Island in coastal Maine, where walking along lobster-trap-lined lanes through the jumble of village houses, to the scrambling over craggy shores brought me to the magnificent spruce-clad woods. There I discovered tiny fairy dwellings in the "Cathedral Woods," which captivated my imagination, as did the sea glass and the legendary folklore of fairy spirits. An island tradition, these tiny whimsical houses constructed of found woodland objects were made by children in the forest to encourage their imagination and belief in the unseen. As for the colorful sea glass that had washed up on the beaches from distant lands, they came with extraordinary stories told by an old sea captain who captivated the attention of children and adults alike. He was a magical storyteller, a weaver of the strange charm of elves and ghostly stories.
CAYCE'S COMMENT

Later in life when Cayce was asked during one of his psychic readings to explain fairies, he answered: “Brownies, pixies, fairies, gnomes are not elementals, but elements that are as definite entities as man materialized.” (EC 1265-3) He further stated that the fairies and those other whimsical forms are only seen by those who are attuned to the infinite. (EC 2547-1).

"Rare as they may seem these unseen elements of nature continue to titillate our senses and evoke the mystery of believing in magical possibilities," PG.

*Inspired by John Van Auken’s article in the Edgar Cayce’s A.R.E. membership newsletter Jan. 2010.