A mantra is a word or phrase charged with the power to change our consciousness. It can be single syllable sound, or one or several words, or even one or several sentences in length. The repetition of a mantra is called japa. Chanting helps create the right conditions within ourselves so we can access our inner silence. Mantras can also help establish spiritual qualities within the practitioner. Chanting a mantra over many times creates a vibration within and around the person chanting. We use mantras to create a specific vibration, still the mind and become absorbed in the consciousness of the mantra. Another way to use a mantra is to chant it aloud and then silently and finally not at all but instead ‘hear’ and ‘feel’ it quietly reverberate within you –this quietening down of the mantra absorbs the mind, and allows you to enter the stillness and silence within.

I have found over the years of teaching meditation, that those who set up a designated area for their meditation practice, stick with it! It can be a corner of your bedroom, or another room where you will have some privacy and not be distracted. It is good if you can have an area that you can keep sanctified and only use for your meditation. This location is not only a physical reminder to meditate, but also you will find that a 'meditative, peaceful vibration' will gradually build up in your area thus making it easier to enter into a place of inner silence.

If you are looking at deeping your meditation, or for tools to help you with specific issues that prevent you from becoming still and receptive,consider introducing the use of flower essences and essential oils into your practice.

‘Deep at the centre of my being there is an infinite well of love’ – Louise Hay

As Valentine's Day approaches, the topic of LOVE is a hot one. As I was contemplating the many types of love...from romantic, to family, to close friends, I was feeling that one aspect of love that is often not nurtured perhaps as much as it should be, is 'self-love'. As we have heard before, it is so important that we learn to love ourselves, for only when we love ourselves do we have quality love to give to others. One of my favourite authors on this topic is Louise Hay and I was inspired to share her 12 Commandments of Loving Oneself. My goal for the month of February is to post it on my wall and attempt to follow the commandments and see what shifts occur within and without! If you feel a calling to choose to do it as well, let us know how it goes!

Burning incense in all natural raw resin and raw herb form is such a special treat for the soul and senses!! This ritual has been used for centuries to purify the home and places of worship, as well as bring forth a tranquil vibration. There are so many lovely choices, each with their own unique fragrance and power. This blog is to share with you a few of the classical ones, a few of Wonderworks' special blends and also how to go about burning raw, all natural incense on charcoal! Enjoy the experience!

In feng shui, crystals are considered powerful feng shui cures and are used to improve the feng shui energy flow in various areas of the house or office, as well as to improve one's own energy. For those that may not be familiar with Feng Shui, Feng Shui literally means wind and water. It is an ancient Chinese system about the relationship between humans and their environment. It is about how everything is energy and isinterconnected. Based on the laws of nature, its theories, principles and techniques offer us a way of understanding how we can create aharmonous environment and also enhance specific areas of our lives.

It is that time of the year again. People concerned about cold and flu and protecting oneself and

one's family. This 'Best Hand Sanitizer' recipe from "Do it Gorgeously" by Sophie Uliano is so easy

and the essential oils will make it a more pleasant experience than some store bought options.

Enjoy!

Castor oil packs are one of the most famous traditional holistic treatments that Edgar Cayce recommended for various health issues. It is also known as the “Palma Christi,” or hand of Christ. A castor oil pack is placed on the skin to increase circulation and to promote elimination and healing of the tissues and organs underneath the skin. It is used to stimulate the liver, relieve pain, increase lymphatic circulation, reduce inflammation and improve digestion.