The purpose of the Spirit Affinity is the promotion of spiritual awakening and optimal health among adults regardless of religious affiliation or background. The Spirit Affinity is centered on the concept that human spirituality is a form of sensuality~the use of all of the senses (not just the basic 5) to experience both worlds seen and unseen. Sensuality encompasses both the natural and the supernatural elements vital for the balance between body, mind, and spirit.
At some point during my adult years, I looked back on my life and realized I was a fraud. My physical world was drastically out of alignment with my spiritual one. It was similar to cooking an elaborate meal while starving, but not being able to consume it. I grew up in a very strict Christian setting dominated by Southern Baptist doctrines. Church every Sunday, choir, usher board, trustee board, Sunday school, morning service, evening service... the environment was filled with bible-toting scripture-quoting tongue-speaking hallelujah shouting folks! Fortunately, I was exposed to many people of integrity and positive influences that instilled in me priceless values. My parents emphasized education until it was drilled into my psyche. On the flip side, I was fed a lot of half-truths, partial truths, and altered truths by so-called well-meaning people. Ignorance, closed-mindedness, pride, & arrogance are likely some of the causative factors. Therefore, I impersonated what a Christian should look and act like based on deficient information. There was no valid connection between the worldly me and my higher self. I impersonated what a Christian should look and act like, but I had no real relationship with my Creator. I prayed to a God I was told to pray to quoting the prayers I was taught to quote. Like a soldier taking orders from his commanding officer: You do as you are told and trained to do whether you are feeling it or not!
Out of Nowhere
I am not sure what event triggered my self-realization, yet it was life-transforming. The process is nowhere near complete rendering an ongoing journey. A crucial part of my being that was sleep woke up and jolted me to the core. Sadly, many people live their whole lives and depart without recognizing that crucial element. My recognition of that element catapulted my mind to a higher wave length. There was a burst of clarity illuminating my understanding of almost everything.
One major area of enlightenment is human sensuality--the mother of physical intimacy. The religious forums that dominate the media treat it like it is nonexistent (unless a scandal hits the news) or something to shun from discussion. In contrast, sensuality should be celebrated and promoted within a God-ordained context. Consequently, inner eyes open, new ideas blossom, paradigms shift, and higher consciousness ensues.
Spiritual enlightenment brings about intelligence and inner peace. It is not about being a Biblical scholar or expert on religious topics because I am neither--far from it! I started this blog not just to disperse information, but to gain knowledge and expand my horizons. It is truly about making a connection with God who leads us to connecting with deeper aspects of ourselves. Those deeper aspects make up the true self...not our careers, bank accounts, personal possessions, or physical bodies.
Our Eclectic Universe
The physical universe is evidence that the Creator loves diversity. A child of the universe, planet Earth, clearly follows suit with its potpourri of life forms. Within the same life form is remarkable variation ( different species of fish, plants, human racial groups, etc). Does it not stand to reason diversity is expressed on every level of existence/consciousness? It does not matter if you are Christian, Buddhist, Muslim, etc. because you are a different expression of the same universe. Different cloths of fabric are required to construct the quilt. I discovered that all religions contribute knowledge and perspectives that are necessary to complete life's masterpiece. It seems as if everyone has a piece to the puzzle of the universe that may never be fully explained on this realm.
The paths we choose to take to self-realization are possible through the gift from God called freewill. I have discovered there are far more similarities than differences between the major philosophies that lend more support of each other than contradiction. Besides, I dare to count the numerous contradictions that exist just within the Christian faith. Historical and present events demonstrate other religions are plagued with the same multiple interpretations/variations. At one time, the news was flooded with horror stories of conflicts between the Sunni and Shiite Muslims...there is only one Quran is there not??? No one, no science, no religion has escaped the divisiveness of multiple perspectives. Conflicting interpretations give birth to confusion, disbelief, and disillusionment.
One will be greatly distracted if not focused on their own inner voice. It's the God inside of you and me. Ultimately, that is the key: Hearing your own inner voice because once that occurs everything else falls into place.
"The most fatal illusion is the settled point of view. Since life is growth and motion, a fixed point of view kills anybody who has one." Brooks Atkinson, Drama Critic
Science has proven that everything in the universe is actually energy vibrating at different frequencies. The science of chakras has always stirred my fascination and interest. However, the Western world often thrust me in circles of rigid people who shunned Eastern-based spiritualism. It was my decision to acquire a level of spiritual maturity where I was willing to broaden my scope of how I viewed the universe. The feeling of understanding a different system of knowledge might some how complete the life puzzle was always lingering. Have you ever allowed your religious/spiritual views to hinder you from investigating others? Do you consider yourself open-minded believing all religions, at the least, offer a piece to the puzzle or are you totally convinced your spiritual views are the only reality and everybody else is crazy? How do your views impact how you interact socially with individuals of different belief systems?
Over 4000 religions have been identified on the planet earth as of 2014. Among the world religions, only 15-20 have been identified as major (based on the extent of membership). I was surprised to find that Atheism is considered a religion. I always viewed Atheism as the absence of religion (I will discuss that in more detail in a future post). See chart on Major Religions of the World Ranked By Number of Adherents on ChartsBin.com. One can easily find a potpourri of statistical data that confirms the majority of the world population is religious (adheres to a specific belief system). Wikipedia states, "A religion is an organized collection of beliefs, cultural systems, and world views that relate humanity to an order of existence." In other words, religion gives us an organized format to explain why we exist, the purpose for our existence, and how to go about fulfilling that purpose. Most religions are supported by ancient writings explaining the origins of that belief system, eg., the Tanakh of Judaism. Ancient doctrines serve as a guide for our behavior and performing designated rituals. More specifically, religion dictates social behavior and expresses itself via ritualistic practices. In my opinion, it gives people hope based on faith, direction, and purpose...something meaningful to strive for.
Religion has been blamed for much of the conflict and chaos in the world as it impacts how humans view and interact with each other. How can that be when it is meant to promote clarity and enlightenment? There is no denying that a substantial amount of the hatred and violence we experience, observe, or hear about is based on religious differences, distortion, and misinterpretations; Slave owners in the historical United States used the Holy Bible as their justification for cruelty to African Americans. There are Muslim extremists who use the Quran as justification to hate and slaughter Christians. Tribal warfare is rampant in certain parts of the world due to clashes in beliefs and culture. The Vatican has been accused of distorting the church system to suit their own personal agenda. Based on those realities, some have come to the conclusion that religion is not a good thing. What is your opinion on this topic? Do you agree or disagree with the impact religion has made on history as well as current events? If you do not agree with the manifestation of religion, then what do you propose as the explanation for the human journey? How do your views impact solutions to world problems and social dilemmas we presently face?
It is recommended by the experts that we take a holistic approach to healthcare addressing our physical, mental, and spiritual components. Based on my experiences and observations, it appears that most of us prioritize our health according to the physical first, followed by the mental, and in last place spiritual. It is the physical and mental health fields that provide the most resources, products, and services. There is concrete and empirical evidence that all three aspects are connected, interactive, and impacted by the status of the other. During this life, they cannot be separated until physical death launching the spiritualityto a new realm. In other words the physical and mental will eventually cease, but the spiritual aspect will remain. With that being said, do you think people would be healthier from a holistic perspective if spirituality was placed as priority? If so why? Do you think churches and other places of worship are enough to promote optimal spiritual health? If not, what do you recommend or suggest?
Inhalation of plant extracts for the purpose of therapeutic benefits is known as aromatherapy. The plant extracts are known as essential oils. The science of its effectiveness is not simply the aroma, but the medicinal effects on mental and physical well-being. It is a very popular practice that is used in both mainstream and alternative health promotion. Manufacturers of commercial preparations often label their products as aromatherapy for a particular scent added. However, the scents used in most commercial products are synthetic. Practitioners of aromatherapy argue that any smell can affect one's mood, thoughts, or state of mind. True aromatherapy can only occur through the use of pure essential oils that have medicinal properties. Different oils have different properties and are used for various purposes. They can be inhaled directly, applied topically to the body, or diffused in the air. Some essential oils can be toxic, caustic, or irritating to bodily tissues so they must be used properly. One must do the research and take the necessary precautions prior to self-administering aromatherapy. Otherwise, it would be more feasible to go to a professional. I routinely use aromatherapy as part of a holistic approach to health maintenance, disease prevention and healing. The benefits are enhanced from the cumulative impact of complementary regimens (adequate sleep, proper exercise, good nutrition, stress reduction). In addition to health promotion, aromatherapy is also used in the religious/spiritual sectors to facilitate spiritual enlightenment and meditation. Candle and incense burning is an ancient practice in worship sanctuaries around the world. I often burn frankincense, myrrh, sage, or sweet grass at home when I am praying, meditating, or reading the Bible. It seems to relax me, open up my mind, enhance my senses, and creates an overall pleasant environment. As a result, I become more receptive to that inner voice. I believe in the holistic model that says a person has 3 major components that are connected: mental, physical, and spiritual. Does it not stand to reason that whatever influences your mental and physical states will also influence your spiritual status? What are your views when it comes to aromatherapy impacting spirituality? Do you think the effects are fleeting and minimal in their usefulness or play a more significant role in spiritualism and related rituals?
Altered mind states that are similar, but have key differences or purposes. Hypnosis is often used to solve a specific problem or accomplish a particular goal, such as elimination of addictions and bad habits. Stimuli to the brain come from an outside source ( the hypnotherapist or hypnotherapy tool). Meditation is used to get in touch with God or the inner-self and stimuli come from an internal source. Do you think hypnosis is underrated as compared to meditation? Have you or anyone you know benefited from hypnosis therapy? Watch the following video for a clear explanation of both practices.
There is something exceptionally healing and rejuvenating about a natural environment. Most of us are instilled with feelings of peace and serenity as stress dissolves. Being closer to nature makes many feel closer to God. This is probably why churches sponsor spiritual retreats against breathtaking landscapes. What is your favorite landscape or nature scene? How does being in that environment influence your inner self? Do you feel that a man-made synthetic environment impedes spiritual growth?
A while ago, I attended a Sunday School class taught by a husband & wife. The discussion was the impact of different types of music on spirituality. They couple joked about how they had finally reached the point where they could "get busy" while listening to gospel music. Does it make you feel awkward or uncomfortable to get physically intimate while listening to spiritual or faith-based music? Does secular music seem more appropriate in creating the mood? Why or why not? Do you view the capacity to make love to faith-based music a sign of spiritual maturity?
Are you married to someone of a different faith? Are you in a marriage where one is a monotheist (believer in one God) or polytheist (believer in multiple Gods) and the other is agnostic/atheist (non-believer)? How have you both adjusted? How has the difference in your beliefs affected your daily routine and household decisions? Are there children involved and how are you directing their belief system?
Scenario: Steven is a Christian. Steven has an anxiety disorder. He takes a prescription drug for his condition. He also uses complementary medicine of yoga & Zen meditation to treat his condition. Is he out of line with his Christianity? Has he done something wrong? Some fellow Christians would say yes. Others say that is ridiculous. Please, allow me to state the obvious. Eastern medicine and Western medicine are different. There are key distinctions & unique practices. Western medicine includes conventional (the medical system as practiced in the US & UK), homeopathic, and naturopathic therapies. Eastern medicine refers to traditional Chinese and Ayurveda health care. In your opinion, which style of medicine is more in-tune with spirituality or treating the innerbeing? Do you feel religion (Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, etc.) has had an impact on the evolving of one or both of these two health care systems? If yes, in what way? Should religion have anything to do with health care?
One of the latest alternative therapies becoming more and more popular are binauralbeats. They are sounds produced by two different tones emitted from two different microphones. Each ear hears a different tone that is played simultaneously producing a stereophonic quality. The brain responds to the difference in the patterns of the tones (not the actual tones) rendering specific perceptions. It is claimed binaural beats can facilitate deep relaxation and sleep, meditation, motivate positive affirmations (self-esteem, money attraction), lucid dreaming, physical energy, feelings of happiness, higher intelligence, psychic abilities, romantic love, weight loss...is there more? I am not sure one way or the other if the claims are valid, but I do feel better after listening to the compositions. I also feel better after listening to the music of Mozart and Michael Jackson. Go figure. I guess the difference is binaural tones are patterned to target a specific stimuli in the brain. It is reasonable to surmise that anything influencing brain activity will inevitably influence spiritual pathways. When one aspect of an entity is altered, everything connected is altered as well-butterfly effect, domino effect, whatever you want to call it. Do you listen to binaural beats? If yes, are they effective in producing the desired results? Do you think their impact on the mind is more scientific, spiritual, or a combination of both?
When our planet gets angry she blows, erupts, floods, shakes, and rattles! She demands respect and shows us the magnitude of her power. No matter how powerful people get, they cannot compete with Mother Earth because she will win every time! In reference to the belief that our thoughts and words shape our reality, what are your views about impacting natural disasters? Do you think it is possible that if enough people directed positive energy through thoughts and words toward the planet, it would stay calm? Could we actually eliminate natural disasters just from changing the energy on the planet? Please share your views.
It is the painful truth that too many of us are either preoccupied with the past or excessively eyeing the future. Yes, it is important under certain circumstances to examine past events in order to solve problems, understand phenomenon, & present events; and yes, it is also important to look toward the future for inventions, technology, prevention of problems, making plans, and decisions in life. However, extreme preoccupation with other time realms is downright unhealthy for the mind, body, and soul. How many times have we stated or heard someone say, "It aint like it used to be." Of course, if a past situation was more pleasant than the present, it is natural to wish the same scenario returns.You cannot address the issues that are impacting you now by living in the past. There will be no enjoyment of life. One will fail to see the positive windows for opportunity in their setting. Most importantly, there will be no growth mentally or spiritually because you are wasting energy over something that cannot be changed. On the other side of the road, excessive future planning distracts you from what impacts you right now. Inevitably, that will endanger your future! It can lead to a perpetual cycle of discontent, dissatisfaction, & failure to enjoy life. Do yourself a favor and live life in the here and now. Build your home base in the present, learn from the past, & create a fabulous future.
Very few people have a smooth flowing uneventful financial life. It is typically a whirlwind of ups/downs, achievements/failures, gains/losses and so on. How does your financial issues and spirituality connect? How do they impact each other?
Welcome to the final quarter of 2012! We are almost at the finish line. Remember the huge Y2K build up in 1999/2000 that fizzled out? Have your expectations of the events this year been fulfilled? Are you still anticipating a major occurrence? If so, what?
The perfume industry has formed a partnership with biology to create fragrances that contain human pheromones. They are chemicals secreted by most living organisms from insects to plants to every animal species. Human beings are no exceptions. We give off powerful scents that serve as signals for other members of the group to detect. Pheromones are Mother Nature’s way of facilitating certain behaviors or reactions to ensure the survival & continuation of a species. There are numerous types of pheromones that living organisms excrete depending on the situation, biological cycle, task to accomplish, etc. Some members of the animal kingdom release a foul/pungent smell when physically attacked to cause a “flight” reaction from the attacker. The most popular funk producing animal is the skunk. However, according to Texas Parks and Wildlife, the skunk’s toxic chemical is not a pheromone because it is released in response to any form of danger-- not to communicate with other skunks. The key to pheromones is communication between members of the same species to bring about a response. There may or may not be an actual smell. The type of pheromones that I will discuss in this post are the most fun type of all! Research has shown that human sweat is major source of the erotic compounds that stir our carnal appetites.The arm pits and unsurprisingly the private area are also major exit sites for nature’s perfume. It is a known fact that human females and other mammals secrete bountiful amounts of pheromones during ovulation to attract the male species. The female ovulation scent occurs for the purpose of reproduction to ensure continuation of the species. No kidding? Pheromones are also secreted heavily during romantic interludes. One's natural aroma can be far better than any commercial preparation. In spite of the visual inclination of males, the scent of a woman only invigorates and intensifies whatever attraction exists. The female pheromones may even be powerful enough to override the male visual component and bring about attraction where initially there was none. Who knows? However, attraction based solely on smell may only be temporary and the visual perception will likely take over. The question remains, do pheromones in commercial preparations actually work? I am afraid the jury is hung on this one. Everyone seems to have a broadly different experience based on differences in body chemistry, who they are trying to attract, and which pheromone preparations they are using. Commercial preparations are designed to enhance what God already gave us. Some companies sell the chemicals pure grade and others incorporate them into colognes/perfumes. There are also pheromones for every combination of male/female attractions. Just like certain fragrances smell better on some more than others, the same applies to pheromone fragrances.Body chemistry is as unique as your fingerprint. Certain aromas will simply complement you more favorably than others. In like manner, certain smells will affect people differently.Therefore, whoever you are trying to attract may respond in a number of ways. You may get the response that you want or you may not. If wearing a certain fragrance, your companion may definitely notice and acknowledge how great you smell. On the other hand, if you are wearing a pheromone-enhanced fragrance your companion may go wild! For instance, a scent like Jasmine Vanilla Aromatherapy by Bath & Body Shop may drive your partner bonkers! The Love Scent website has a good selection of pheromone products to choose from. In summing things up, human pheromones are biologically originated chemical that are sold in commercial preparations. They are formulated in pure form or combined with colognes/perfumes to accommodate all possible gender orientations. The opinions of whether these pheromone preparations work vary broadly based on a number of factors, such as body chemistry, the target of attraction, or the particular product used.I recommend experimenting with different ones and various combinations--biological with nonbiological, and scented with unscented varieties. Don't forget to incorporate aromatherapy into your regimen. You should eventually get the response you want from who you want it from.It is not rocket science but raw biology enhanced by modern technology so indulge & have fun!
The body's ability to heal, repair, and regenerate is the key to longevity and quality of life. It is impacted by numerous factors, such as, genetics, health status, hormonal balance, age, free radical damage, emotional/psychological state, and social influences. Stress is a major role player in the acquiring of disease. It interferes with the body's natural defense or immune system to operate properly. Disease and illness have the most devastating effect on the natural rejuvenation of bodily cells. Most every disease is the result of some type of inflammatory process in the body. Free radicals play a huge role in degrading the repair of cells. They are highly reactive molecules released from environmental pollutants and the sun's ultraviolet rays that damage our DNA. Compounds known as antioxidants counteract the effects of free radicals. It seems our parents knew best when they told us go to bed early. Research has proven that adequate sleep at night has the most beneficial effect when the highest percentage of healing hormones are released in the blood stream. No matter what the reasons for poor health, foods with healing properties can repair damaged cells and regenerate new ones. They have been cultivated and used throughout recorded history. The healing foods I am going to present are whole foods, herbs, and spices that should comprise the diet of most health conscientious people. Many of them not only heal, but rev up the immune system, boost metabolism, encourages natural detoxification, and improves the condition of your skin, hair, and nails.
The following information is based on personal experience and years of research and studying various notable foods and their impact on health. These are only a few of the foods that are excellent for hastening the body's natural healing processes:
Almonds-contain fatty acids essential for hormone production.
Arugula-the greens are often used in salads. They contain phytonutrients that impede abnormal cell growth, such as cancer.
Asafetida-a dried, powdered herb from India with a strong garlic-like taste is used in Ayurvedic medicine.
Asparagus-contains potassium, vitamins B6, folic acid, A, C, and fiber.
Avocados-rich in fatty acids known as omega-3, potassium, vitamin B6, and folic acid. Omega-3 fatty acids are particularly healing to the eyes, brain, nerves, heart, and skin.
Bananas-loaded with potassium and B vitamins that are very healing to the skeletal and heart muscles.
Black Licorice-known for its seductive aroma and increases blood flow to the organs.
Black Pepper-enhances digestion and the absorption of other nutrients.
Cardamom-contains cineole that increases blood flow to areas it is applied. Possesses strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Carrots-high in beta-carotene and is very nourishing to the eyes, skin, and other organs.
Chia Seeds-considered a super seed loaded with fiber and a broad range of nutrients including omega-3 fatty acids.
Chili Peppers-contain capsicum a natural pain reliever. Consuming this food causes sweating (removal of toxins), increased heart rate, and increased blood flow.
Chocolate-provides the compounds flavanols and methylxanthine that function as anti-inflammatory agents, antioxidants, and help to regulate the immune response. Methylxanthines illicit dopamine production that control feelings of satisfaction when we are good to ourselves.
Cilantro-the leaf of the coriander plant contains the antioxidant quercetin and anti-inflammatory properties.
Cinnamon-rich in minerals and a blood sugar regulator. Higher than normal blood sugar levels has been associated with impaired cellular function and tissue damage.
Coffee-yes coffee! Contains a high concentration of antioxidants that help prevent disease. It also contains(caffeine) as small to moderate consumption stimulates the mind and body.
Coriander Seeds-protects against colon cancer and free radical damage (antioxidant). Regulates blood sugar levels associated with pancreatic malfunction.
Cucumbers-have a pleasant scent and increase blood flow to the bodily tissues and remove toxins.
Curcumin-the main ingredient of turmeric which gives curry its yellow hue. It encourages antioxidation through the release of the body's own enzymes.
Eggs-contain tissue-building protein and provide vitamin B6 that balance hormones and the body's reaction to stress.
Fennel-the seeds contain natural hormones or phytochemicals that are very healing.
Figs-consumed back in Biblical times when people lived to be hundreds of years old! They are rich in fiber, minerals, and low in sugar.
Flax Seeds-another super seed high in protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Garlic-renders the component allicin that dilates blood vessels and increases circulation.
Ginger-aids in digestion, fights cancer, and increases metabolism and energy levels.
Honey-provides the mineral boron that promotes the metabolism of hormones.
Kiwi-rich in vitamin C that strengthen blood vessels, encourages fast wound healing, and facilitates the functions of other nutrients.
Mustard-stimulating to bodily glands that excrete healing hormones.
Nutmeg-detoxifies the body and slows the effect of brain degenerating conditions, such as dementia.
Oats-a natural grain that is very nourishing to the body.
Oysters-high in zinc that boost hormone production, immune system, and repair of damaged tissues.
Pineapple-used in homeopathic medicine to treat multiple ailments.
Pine Nuts- rich in zinc to boost immune system.
Sweet Basil-reduces inflammation, functions as an antibacterial, an antioxidant, and strengthens the immune system. Also has a very stimulating aroma.
Strawberries-contain vitamin C and other antioxidants that improve circulation.
Walnuts-render a blend of fatty acids for healthy eyes, skin, and heart.
Wine-consumed in moderation relaxes the mind and relieves stress. Red wine contains the chemical resveratrol from the grape skin reported to benefit the heart and fight cancerous cells.
There are literally hundreds of more healing foods that are not mentioned here that you can research. A superb collection of naturally healing recipes that use many of the foods presented can be found on the recipe websites for Dr. Oz and Dr. Andrew Weil.
Have you ever had a disease or illness or do you know of someone that was completely healed strictly from the consumption of healthy foods without the use of traditional medicines? Did you or that person continue the same eating regimen after being cured?
Does listening to certain songs make you feel more affectionate or romantic? Do you think music can actually ignite or enhance a romantic relationship? Do you feel it is healthy or natural for an individual to suppress romantic feelings, e.g., someone practicing faith-based celibacy?
It is of no benefit to deny the inevitable: People will age, get old, and eventually die. One of those not so great facts of life we all must contend with. The aging process drags the body through colossal changes that are not very appealing. The real challenge is counteracting the negative aspects as much as we can. Our ultimate goal is to maintain the highest quality of living for as long as we can. I could go through a very long list of the specific physical/mental changes one goes through, but I am not. You either are going through it or are observing someone else going through it. The culprit for much of the aging transformation is the "M" word when we arrive to the infamous middle-age. Any man or woman over the age of 40 knows about the "M" word or is about to find out. Another not so great fact of life is the longer we live the more likely we will get sick or develop medical conditions. What happens next? The doctor puts us on a boat-load of medications. They do not cure any diseases, but only mask symptoms and create new ones (side effects). You better believe the health care and pharmaceutical industries love it when we hit middle-age. They know that their pockets are going to get nice & fat!
