NEW! Oshun Spirit African Black Soap with Obsidian Essence

Try our newest formula, Oshun Spirit African Black Soap with Obsidian Essence!

If you like Dudu Osun, you'll adore Oshun Spirit Black! Oshun Spirit Quality marries traditional natural African Black Soap to create the ultimate luxury standard in Black Soap. It's been several years in the making, and we're very pleased!

This amazing bar is formulated entirely from natural ingredients and herbs, to restore damaged skin and is helpful in healing chronic eczema, acne, freckles, and dark spots. The scent is light, fresh, slightly sweet, clean and natural. Good for both women and men. Oshun Spirit Black makes a wonderful shaving soap. It lightly exfoliates and gives you soft, healthier looking skin. The soap can also be used on your hair. Good  for for oily skin, dry skin, skin rashes, scalp irritations and very sensitive skin.

Obsidian in general helps to alleviate pain, reducing tension and releasing energy and accelerates the physical healing of wounds. Obsidian is an excellent stone simply to have around to absorb and transform the negative energies in to positive. It vibrates calmness and security. Washing with Oshun Spirit Black soap adds these protective energies to your auric field.

Ingredients: Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Distilled Water, Shea Butter, Sodium Hydroxide, Activated Charcoal, Aloe, Honey, and Citrus essential oils. Cured in an obsidian grid matrix to boost the potency of the herbs, oils and minerals.

Each hand-cut bar weighs about 5 ounces. Try some today at Oshun Spirit Earth Friendly Goods.

Auction to benefit many, in memory of one

And that one is Otis.
Otis didn't make it but others will, thanks to your compassion and generosity. Join Cool Dog Duke and many other animal lovers who have come together for this auction supporting homeless pets in need. Please bid generously on a wonderful assortment of goodies for pets and the people who love them.

For complete information:
http://elsiethedomesticgoddess.com/blog/2012/01/26/auction-for-the-memory-of-one-to-benefit-many/

To see the goodies at auction:
http://www.ebay.com/sch/elsielodde/m.html?_nkw&_armrs=1&_from&_ipg&_trksid=p3686

One Good Thing: The Oshun Spirit Holiday Gift Guide 2011

Give the Gift of Experience

Personalized programs, spiritual counseling, healing and readings with Master Teacher Susan Berry. Appointments via skype, phone and email. Enter coupon code SAVE15 and take 15% off all services at www.oshunspirit.net thru November 15.

Give a Gift of Wellness from Sweet Water Spa

Exotic spa salts, clays, mineral muds, and tachyon oils blend aromatherapy, gemstone energies and sacred geometry to balance body, mind and spirit. Bio-resonance jewelry, pyramids, tachyon textiles, spa blankets, organic soaps and more! Available at oshunspirit.net and oshunspirit.com and our specialty site, www.sweetwaterspa.net.

Give the Gifts of Hope and Abundance

Oshun Spirit Earth Friendly Traders is a proud member of the Alternative Marketplace Alliance. Buying from Independent Merchants and giving Fair Trade Goods helps people in the USA and developing countries build sustainable businesses that positively influence their communities. Use addobucks, goods, services, and cash in creative combinations and barter to make your gift purchases at www.oshuspirit.com

Give an Oshun Spirit Gift Certificate

Perfect. Available in any denomination, sent via email and valid for one year at oshunspirit.net and oshunspirit.com

Give a Gift to the Animals that Share our World

A percentage of all sales at www.cooldogduke.com are donated to organizations that give animals a voice. Wag More Bark Less • Cats Don’t Know Sit • Pack Leader T-shirts, Hats, Stickers, Outerwear, Pet Goods and our famous "Beware of the (bitemark) Signs"!

Our Gift to You

Animal prints are pouncing back as this season's must-have accessories.To give or enjoy yourself, receive a FREE Zebra Bangle with your order of $75 or more while supply lasts at www.oshunspirit.net

LIKE our Facebook Fan Page to receive exclusive special offers www.facebook.com/oshunspiritstore During the month of November we'll be offering One Good Thing each day to welcome in the Holiday Spirit! 

The first good thing: A Leopard Pashmina Scarf. Value $30. (You can see it at www.oshunspirit.com.) I'll do a random drawing from the first 20 SHARES of the facebook post. That's a one-in-twenty chance of winning!

Today's Good Thing: This Holiday Gift Guide

It's going to be a fabulous November! 

I know that by being of service to other people, by giving them value, you not only make their lives better but over time you tend to get what you give. And the people you help may feel more inclined to help other people. And so you, together, create an upward spiral of positive change that grows and becomes stronger...

... and I do believe that all it takes is One Good Thing to set in motion ALL good things ...

So whether you are looking for ideas and inspiration, a gift for someone special, or a little pick-me-up for yourself, I hope you will check out the offering each day and see if it isn't One Good Thing that you could enjoy or pass along with a smile, a kind word, an act of compassion.... all it takes is one good thing to happen...

I hope you enjoy this lovely song, One Good Thing, by Lou Rhodes

May you be blessed!

Change your Charge, Change Your Life!

All living organisms – plants, animals, and people –  generate their own electromagnetic field which determines every metabolic function in their bodies, including nerve signal transmissions, cell division, nutrient transport, and physical, emotional, and psychological response to external stimuli.

Humans and animals are extremely sensitive to magnetic fields.  Our bodies contain magnetite crystals which respond to the vibrations of the earth’s magnetic field in our brain tissue, bones, in the blood-brain barrier, and near the ophthalmic nerves which carry information to the brain. Birds also have magnetite embedded around their eyes that helps them to stay on course during migration, fish have magnetite crystals along the sides of their bodies that signal them to swim in schools in a particular direction. 

The ancients discovered the earth’s magnetic grid is composed of intersecting ley lines that run through the planet. Ley lines vary in intensity depending on the geophysical makeup of an area such as mineral deposits or underground streams, and the gravitational force exerted there.  Depending on location, the areas along these lines will either support life or be detrimental to it.

All living creatures are finely tuned to the earth’s energies and depend on them for survival. The earth’s electrical and magnetic fields interact with one another and with all living species to support biological processes and instinctual behavior.  The earth itself is a huge bipolar magnet with a north and south pole and a central spinning core of molten iron and nickel. Micropulsations in the 10 Hz range constantly radiate from the core, establishing a resonance to which all life responds.  The earth’s electromagnetic field is created by an intricate dance between the magnetic core, the charged gases of the ionosphere and the enormous power of solar winds emanating from the sun.

The soil also continually emits electrically charged particles into the air called ions. On a clear day the earth emits a negative charge and the atmosphere has a positive charge. On rainy days the particles are reversed.  The earth’s natural background voltage runs from 100 volts at the surface, increasing in altitude to 360,000 volts at the lowest layer of the ionosphere. (This is problematic for airline personnel who spend a lot of time out of the natural frequency range of earth.) Those who live or work in high-rise buildings can also be challenged by the electromagnetic fields associated with higher altitudes. The phrase “down to earth” refers to the centered focus one achieves from being grounded on the earth.

Our ancestors were bathed only in the natural frequencies of the earth. These included the earth’s intrinsic magnetic field, lightning, and visible light. Scientists estimate that we take in 200 trillion times more electromagnetic fields (EMFs) each day than someone living prior to 1900. It is estimated that every 15 seconds we are exposed to more EMFs than our ancestors experienced in their entire lifetimes from televisions, power lines, computers, cell phones, microwave ovens, etc. Hundreds of scientific studies  have demonstrated the biological effects of manmade electromagnetic fieldspointing to the high rate of cancer in people who live near power lines. The U.S. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences designates low-frequency EMFs a possible human carcinogens. Headaches, stress, depression, fatigue, poor memory, and pressure in the ears and eyes are just some of the other symptoms associated with cell phone use and contunued exposure to EMFs.

Because human beings are frequency generators we have the power to modulate our own energies to a large degree. However, we have not evolved quickly enough to compensate for the bombardment of energies from our modern technology. This is why so many people are unable to function at "full capacity." Earth energies assist us in balancing our energy field, in fact a walk in the woods or by the ocean can quickly discharge and balance frequencies and harmonize our bioenergy field with the natural resonance of earth. The natural energies of the earth, sun and stars sustain, energize and renew us.  Without them we could not exist. But for many it is impossible to find the time and space to be in nature to the degree required to heal and protect us from the harmful electromagnetic fields we are exposed to in our daily lives to maintain our balance.

The sympathetic resonance properties found in Oshun Spirit Tachyon Wellness Tools offers a simple solution as they work to neutralize the harmful effects of EMF’s that we are exposed to at home and in the workplace. People using these products report reduced stress and illness, increased energy and stamina, and more restorative sleep. I hope you will take a moment to visit our website and discover the many health benefits of incorporating Tachyon Wellness Tools into your daily life. Our products include Tachyon Salt Lamps, Pyramids, Spa Treatments, Textiles, Bio-resonance Jewelry and more!

"The effects of Tachyon energy are unlimited.  Each energy block we clear adds to the joy of the cosmic energy flowing through us. We can literally feel this! As we repeatedly experience it (and then experience the divine energy consistently filling us with joy, peace and contentment) we begin to understand that we ARE this divine energy."

All of our Tachyon products provide excellent EMF protection. You will begin to feel brighter and more energized after a just few hours of using them and over time, you will see a positive influence in many aspects of your life. Your health and well being will certainly improve, but so will your relationships and synchronisctic opportunities for fulfilling your self expression and life puropse. As your positive electromagnetic field communicates with others and your environment – you will, in effect, magnetize beneficial people, encounters, and opportunities to you!

May you be blessed!

Speed Over Perfection... in an effort to make the product better?

I just spent a few minutes reading the last comments of my blog post dated Tuesday, March 8.
Thank you for the information. Am I surprised? No. I will accept that those actions are my reward for playing nice with Alex, and that the post created such a dramatic response carries its own message forward.

The unicorn thing was childish. If you visit http://www.facebook.com/oshunspiritstore there are some endearing comments posted about it. After over 900 hits, there is not one comment which supports the business model of degrading your customers. If it was meant to reflect poorly on me, it fell short.

But yesterday's news is today's fish wrapper. Today's news is that Bonanza emphasizes speed over perfection in an effort to make the product better. I can't let it go. They sent it to me. It is the answer to the question I asked time and time again. Thank you!

I will direct you to:
http://oshunspirit.blogspot.com/2010/07/bonanzlecom-launches-two-new-games.html

In Bill Harding's own words, he felt that I was "regularly being at odds with our prioritization. "Our" being Bonanzle Management's, and indeed that was true for him. What was true for me is that I wanted to understand why "selling" was not the priority of an e-commerce marketplace.

As a Premier member (in fact I was one of the first Premiere supporters, and I was first to sign up as a member of the BAC, first to hold a chat/auction on Bonanzle, yes I had a vested interest in the sites success) I had access to google analytics which I also had on my website oshunspirit.net, a mirror of the Bonanzle booth to which I directed my .com. Comparing apples to apples, the Bonanzle conversion rates were way, way off, month after month. I might add, I left ebay as a powerseller, so I hadn't just fallen off the turnip truck.

I had many customers emailing that they couldn't check out, and intuitively I knew there had to be even more that were having similar issues that I was not hearing about. So, because I was on Bonanzle to do business, a functional checkout system was a priority. I  admit it.

And I cared, not just for me, but because people were suffering. Really suffering, because of it.

Does anyone remember poor Razmear? I tried for 3 weeks to buy multiple items, a wholesale lot, from him and we finally completed the sale off site because he needed that money to keep his electricity on. Such sacrifices to personal financial stability were not unheard of... early adapters that stopped selling on ebay and had no other means would have starved had it not been for the goodwill of other members. I bought a lot of stuff I didn't need because I could. A great community, a bad business plan. Take the emotional component out and you've got dumb.

In April 09, after they introduced Bizzy, the rude robotic personal assistant, I begged that their next project might be to address the barriers to sales and our inability to complete sales on site rather than add further embarrassment to what was already an increasingly embarrassing situation – that is, constantly apologizing for customer's inconvenience. I got a really snarky answer, something about how hip and professional can go hand in hand.

My skin prickled and I knew there was a disconnect. Maybe generational, maybe deeper...

When Bonanzle added widgets instead of addressing the issues, I asked again. When they added syndication and affiliates, I asked again. When they added Twitter and Facebook integration, one more time I expressed that spamming the social networks would do little for the bottom line if the incoming buyers could not navigate the site. Games came and went, handpicked lists became a favorite pass time and then there was a constant stream of booth do-overs  to incorporate site upgrades which often upset the apple cart. Lots of busy work to do, games to play, chatty features to ensure stickiness. Of sellers, not buyers.

I couldn't get a buyer to stick, not with widgets, not with Bonanzas, or coupons, or anything else. And I'm sharp.

All the while my website converted (even as I literally ignored it) and Bonanzle did not. Yes, I kept asking for functionality. And I received three answers in perpetual rotation:  I had "it" set up incorrectly, my customers were doing it wrong, or I needed to clear my cache.

No, I was not the only one. I am one of many whose voices were silenced for speaking out and questioning the site's prioritization, asking for clarification. But I suppose I was an influencer of sorts and I call it like I see it. And I usually see very clearly. In fact, my predictions about Bonanza run with 100% accuracy. I'm sure someone will testify to that.

In July of '10 I finally put my booth on hold and wrote the blog,  http://oshunspirit.blogspot.com/2010/07/bonanzlecom-launches-two-new-games.html. Bill said he was sorry to see me go.

What? I said I wasn't going anywhere, that I would wait for functionality and a return on my investment...

In hindsight I understand that was not what he was hoping to hear.

"They" offered to do a detailed analysis of my booth if I offered it up as a test case. From July 19 - Sept 1 my booth was closed while "they" worked on it to find solutions. I "lost" my images, attributes, traits, shipping, and prices. I was shocked, I thought it was all about the checkout, cart, and shipping profiles. I let them know my booth was GONE, that the fixes were generating unrelated glitches. I received emails that did not address the points made. Over and over again. Then I got it. Oops.

Trashed, not fixed. 

I posted in the forum about my experiences, just the facts, backed up by emails, and bmails, and I was censored til 2015. I examined my experience on my blog. Those who responded and shared similar stories were hunted down, suspended, and invited to leave as well..

Well, that's just nasty business no matter how you spin it.

On September 9, management announced that they had " fixed full page new item form zeroing out international shipping that was set as "see description" or "calculated" and fixed shipping profiles not being applied to new items on full page new item form. But there were still problems...

The real problem: They didn't know how to fix the problems.

Then, just a few months ago, Bonanza with a team of new programmers in place, renovated their checkout system because their research showed it needed simplification and buyers were having problems. Bada-bing!

Several weeks ago Bonanza merchants were all over the social networking sites frantic, livid, remarking about the ongoing site functionality issues. They received three answers in perpetual rotation: They had "it" set up incorrectly, their customers were making errors, or they needed to clear their caches. I've been there, done that, I have a point of view...

I wrote a blog. And here you are.

I now sport a Unicorn as an avatar, my booths sport red x's where they once were. And they will say to you through my example, "you may be next."

And I will say to you, may you be blessed!

From Alex' response: "We openly acknowledge that there are, from time to time, bugs on the site as we endeavor to quickly enhance the product. We do emphasize speed over perfection in an effort to make the product better." Speed over perfection... if haste compromises functionality,  many are left wondering how a product gets better.

Bonan'ZEN: One Last Story

In 2008 and into 2009, Bonan'ZEN was my weekly contribution to a forum on Bonanzle (recently re-branded as Bonanza.com) called "Inspire Simplicity." During the time I posted there my intention was to add a bit of perspective and wisdom, often peppered with a dash of humor and wit, to the community of online merchants there who were laboring to work around the site glitches of the newly launched start-up marketplace. 

In those days frustration ran high, although spirits could be buoyed with a kind word or two. Merchants bought and sold from each other to troubleshoot the issues their customers were having, worked along side management to develop the site, and promoted the fledgling venue on every blog, lense, podcast and portal that would stand for it.

Sellers were dismayed because nothing worked quite right, sales were hard to come by and then often had to be completed off -site because customers simply could not navigate the process. So the inspirational quotes, parables, wisdom tales and motivational fables Bonan'ZEN offered were deeply appreciated. Even Bill Harding said, "keep 'em coming!"


Well, all good things must come to an end. 


Bonanzle and I eventually parted ways and I am no longer compelled to offer weekly words of wisdom in that direction.  I do, however, watch and learn and I do keep in contact with many sellers there, wonderful people whom I care about deeply. I do on occasion, express my gratitude for those friendships, and for those experiences which have made me a savvy seller on-line and a wiser woman all-around. 

Recent events have placed Bonanza back on my radar screen. And a storm is brewing.


So today, as I see the merchants upset and frustrated, posting on Facebook and Twitter and the Bonanza Forums I am compelled to offer one last wisdom tale. But it's not for the sellers. It's for my one-time "partners" in hopes they catch the spark of insight offered and start looking out for their customers, my seller-friends.


This is a true story, taken from my own life. We all make mistakes.

Someone once gave me a little Bonsai tree. Because I was good with plants I took the snippers to it immediately and started shaping –  excited to create something new and wonderful!

Soon the ends began to wither so I snipped a little more. I tweaked it and I tweaked it until I finally tweaked it to death. 

It wasn't until I had an empty pot that it occurred to me that I should have consulted someone with experience instead of imagining I was already an expert...

May you be blessed!

Crystal Balls, Tarot Cards, Pendulums and Psychic Readings... Oh My!

So, you're thinking that you might want to schedule an intuitive reading... but you're not really sure what to expect. You're imagining it might be, well, weird... or maybe even a little scary!

Relax. 

My name is Susan Berry. And, I offer psychic readings and spiritual counseling with one intention: to help you to be more aware of your Spirit – your higher self – and your plan and your purpose for your life.  When you have this awareness, you can make choices that are in harmony with your own highest  intentions.  And, you can experience your best possible life, love, and health!  

It is not my desire to predict your future, but to point you in the probable direction of joy, creativity, abundance and love. It is not my intention to tell you what to do, but remind you how to do what you want to do from the vantage point of your Spirit. Please note that our Spirits communicate based on Universal Laws, and thus do not limit our interactions to any particular religious denomination or spiritual practice.


When I do a reading for you, I first connect with you energetically. As a seer and empath, I do this most easily by viewing your photograph. I adjust my vibration so I can clearly "see and feel" you. Then I am able to access any guidance that is supportive of the present moment and your current level of spiritual understanding of the challenges in your life.  The information offered to you is always that of non-judgemental and compassionate wisdom. The purpose is  to open your heart, facilitate deep healing, and strengthen the flow of love and positive energy into your life.  It is given so that you may move forward with grace and in harmony, gifted with free will and the capacity to choose your course of action for the highest good as your life unfolds.

An intuitive reading with me is simply a guided journey into the larger story of your life so that you may make informed choices from the perspective of the higher planes. It's not weird.  And it is certainly not scary! It is beautiful.

With this in mind, it I recommend that it is always best to approach the reading process with clear goals in terms of what you wish to heal or balance, and with a list of questions that you would like answers to.  And, after you compose your list, ask yourself if the questions you are asking are really reflective of what you want to know? Go deeper, always go one layer deeper!

Although readings generally do not require much preparation on the part of you, the client,  there are still certain things that you can do both before and during the reading which will help you to get the most out of our time together. First, ask yourself why you want to have a reading. Do you just want to hear what you want to hear? Or, are you ready to un-earth and face long buried truths? Are you prepared to listen to the facts as they present themselves and are you willing to follow through with directives for transformation? Are you ready for a deep healing that can change your life?


I offer readings as catalysts for healing. I open myself only to sacred purpose. If you want lotto numbers I'm not the channel for you.


I do recommend that you write your questions down prior to our time together as it is easy to forget to ask the most important question that you wanted to explore, especially when we get a really good connection, as the information that comes through can be fast and furious!

My goal is to diminish some of your unsettled nerves beneath which exists a natural curiosity about life and a desire to know things on a deeper level. After all, without that curiosity and desire you would not be seeking a reading! 

It’s important to remember too that psychic abilities are normal and we all possess them to a degree. We all have "psychic" moments and although many people like to brush these aside with the word “coincidence” the truth is that there are no coincidences. We all have a psychic sense, it’s a normal part of our being human so don’t be afraid of this. Remember that I am a regular person just like you! I've just focused on my gift and practiced for many years, just as a concert pianist is graced with mastership of music from years of perfecting that natural gift.

So, connect with the feeling of excitement around this desire to know, and let that guide you. That will help put you in touch with the voice of your own intuition and when it is time for your reading take a deep breath and relax. This deep relaxation will make a world of difference in the quality of your reading and your ability to intuit the subtle meanings in the message. As you listen to what is being channelled to you from spirit, you may not accept everything that you are being given right away. I ask that you do remain open to the possibilities that this information is being given to help you, and that you will gain clarity over time. Aha moments often occur days and months after your reading!

Also, you should be ready and open to enter into a two way conversation. It will not interrupt the flow of information that you are supposed to receive. If some information is given to you and you do not fully understand it, do not be afraid to ask me to repeat the information or ask for my interpretation of it. I am very approachable and friendly (and a I'm a mom!), so remember that I am here to help you. If you want to ask any questions, then please do ask away! It's your reading and you should feel free to direct the flow.

The most important thing you can do is to relax. It is normal to be a little nervous, and excited especially if you have never had a psychic reading before. Nerves are normal whenever we do anything for the first time.  But since you have decided to have a reading there are no doubt certain areas of your life which you would like to seek deeper insights and guidance about, and you are excited to explore. So, take some time before-hand to think deeply about the questions you wish to ask and write them down. Having "notes" will help you to feel more relaxed during our time together. And in that space of relaxation, peace and an open heart – miracles occur!


I look forward to opening my heart as a channel for healing in your life.
May you be blessed!

Finding Your Balance, Riding the Wave

Everything is going my way!

Wait, this is too good to be true...

Crash.

(And just when you were wondering how everything got to be so good...)

When you're riding along on the crest just say "no" to the tendency to get scared and wonder if something is going to come along and throw you off that wave and dump you head first onto the shore. Because as you focus on that fear, well, you create that very opportunity to spit out a bit of sand. Why? To teach you to stop it!

Because just as that little voice of negative self-talk chimes in with "I know it can't last," or "when everything starts to go well, something always comes along to spoil it," or even better, "Who do I think I am, I don't deserve all this!" we lose our balance. We come out of our center (our heart, our passion, our spirit) and lean toward fear.

Whatever the belief you're working through, it overrides everything good that comes your way, and even though we do deserve the success, happiness, joy, and abundance, this is where we crash. This is where you allow self-sabotage in your life just to prove to yourself that you are right about the core beliefs you identify with. (And learn that these barriers have been placed by your own hands.)

So, why is it that we think that we should hold only a certain amount of happiness or success…or love?

Why do we convince ourselves that riding the wave, and having a good, long ride is not possible (or maybe not even allowed?)

We constantly attract the people and situations that reflect our own interior state of being in order to release those limiting thoughts and move toward pure joy.

So the next time you're spitting out the sand, ask yourself:

1. What am I doing to draw this to my life?
2. What is the lesson I need to learn from this situation so that I do not have to repeat it?

Your life is purely a mirror of yourself-talk. Every single moment of peace, chaos, happiness, sadness, miracles and explosions are of your own divine creation. And, they are all reflections of your beliefs, your conscious and unconscious thoughts, the things you are aware of and the things you choose not to see or believe about yourself. And this negative voice – the one that tells you your are about to come crashing off the joy ride and holds all of the lies that you have been told about yourself or chosen to believe – drowns the light filled truth that you really are.

It is time to get out of your head and to stop rationalizing and to move into your heart and open it up and embrace all your widest passion-filled aspirations. It is time to move past the untruths, insecurities, and misdirected loyalties. It is time to paddle out to that big wave and stand in trust, in love, balanced with forgiveness and compassion, and ride with reckless abandon! Fearless and free!

May you be blessed!

image credit: canstockphoto.com

Projecting Judgement: The Mind, The Ego, The Spirit, and The Light

In meditation this morning I kept seeing a ‘projector’ in my mind. I assumed it was being given to me as a symbolic message as part of a reading I was preparing for. I do see a beam of light as a metaphor often, but my attention was focused on the wheels and gadgetry of the thing. So I decided to explore the prompt to investigate what I was really looking at... the machine.

The machine... with the ability of streaming internal images (or ideas) out and onto something (or someone) else... and I started to think about people as living, breathing projectors.

Everyone one of us is a being of light with the ability to shine that light out as an emanation of who and what we are...

But machines are cold, programmed and tooled...

And I "heard" the word judgement. Now, I've been aware of myself watching ideas of justice and judgement playing themselves out in the world and national news, in pop-culture and media, and recently spilling into the mini-dramas of day to day interactions. I've been aware of callous comments, negative attacks, calls for condemnation and the consequences of jumping to judgements. It's a word that has been rattling around in my consciousness...

Oh... Projecting Judgement! Judgment is a big idea with an immense base of power because judgments have the ability to alter realities, and very quickly. That makes them attractive! Judgements send strong currents of energy which affect individuals, communities, and indeed even nations. But judgements are subjective, and they are an illusion. They are projections of the mind, and not the spirit. And they do not really serve as surrogates for the justice we might desire, but rather, judgements act as jailers of the emotions and vulnerabilities within ourselves which keep us in the chains of denial, fear, and separation from each other.

And certainly, judgements keep us out of the light.

A person being judged will certainly react in some way. Depending on the awareness of the individual it might be with reflection... judgement may spark compassion and a blessing from the heart. But often judgement produces a physical, verbal, and/or emotionally charged reaction fitered through the mind or ego... and the need to defend or deny, or blame, or apologize, or retaliate... or meditate.

The judgment will also impact the speaker. If they become conscious of what they are really saying, their awareness will allow for growth and positive change within themselves. However, if they cannot become conscious, the behavior and/or person they are judging will become increasingly aggravating and intolerable to them. Of course the more ‘heat’ there is in the judgement, the more spirit is calling for inner reflection. And please don't judge THAT as a bad thing!

When I catch myself proclaiming a judgement, I ask myself:

• How powerful is this person over me that she/he generates such a fearful response in me?
• Why have I given away my own power in this situation?
• What frame of mind am I coming from?
• What is the self-talk that speaks within me?

Back to the projector. Remember, it is a machine that reflects outwardly the "image" that has been placed inside of it, just as we project outwardly the image we hold of ourselves within. Now take that one step further:

• What is that image?
• Who placed it there?
• What is my true essence?
• Am I projecting that?

We usually project outwardly what we are thinking/feeling about ourselves. And we are usually projecting fear about our own perceived shortcomings when we project a judgement, and that is merely a mechanism of the ego machine. The conditioned mind, not the light that we are.


Truthfully we can only see in another what we can find in ourselves. For some people, this concept will be intriguing and allow an openness to test and investigate!  It will begin a path toward inner knowing, self reflection, healing, and growth. Why? Because you will begin to discover your patterns of behavior. Only in consciously knowing about something can you consciously change it.

For others this concept will be upsetting. It might be more comfortable to go into denial about some of the judgments you have. So then, just become aware of the judgments that others have. Are they judging behaviors and manners that they have enacted themselves? Just be an observer for now…

It is natural and prevalent in human nature to comment on what is outside of us. However, it is of our spiritual nature to remain within ourselves, within our own individual experiences where our individual lessons and opportunities for growth await our discovery. When we step into someone else’s world, and judge their experiences…we are in essence giving away our own power to something that can not serve us and will, in the end, only weaken our experience.

Every time I find myself involved with the happenings of another, their reactions, conflicts, and drama… I try to become instantly aware of the amount of my own energy that is getting usurped. I realize that I am using energy that could be better spent directed to my own needs, wants, desires, dreams, and manifestations. I measure very carefully what I'm willing to give away.

We can all work on our projections! Take a breath, and realize in that moment that you were about to take time away from yourself and give up an opportunity for self-awareness. Take that time back to tinker with the gadgetry of your projector, and in that moment, bring the fragments of your light back into focus so that you can fully see the picture of beauty within yourself. Bring your true essence back into focus. Then go ahead and project that love!

May you be blessed!

A Blessing for the New Year

 Here’s to the outgoing year, 2010...
May the many wonderful moments (and there were many)live on in our memories eternally,
and may we learn the lessons gifted in those troubling times
that will make us stronger and better than ever.  Here’s to 2011!
For each and every one of you,
may it be mapped with clearly marked paths
leading toward the fulfillment of your Spirits' longing.  In this coming new year,
let us focus on our oneness and work toward each others dreams,
and yes,
let’s all try to go with the flow a little more
and stress a little less.  And most important,
 ( I lift and wave my glass around to encompass the whole of the Earth and her creatures)
here’s to all of you!
 Let us love and respect and care for one other in the new year
as I appreciate all of you now.
 Let’s focus on our common goals
and choose to overlook our differences(minor annoyances in the bigger picture)
to create mutual happiness and contentment for each other.  Here’s to 2011... let's enjoy the journey!May you be blessed!

Great Last Minute Gifts, Wrapped, and Free Upgrade to Priority Shipping at Oshun Spirit Earth Friendly Goods at Addoway.com and on our website

Did you wait til the last minute? It's OK, we're here to help! At Oshun Spirit we'll help you select it, we'll wrap it, include a personal note from you, and automatically upgrade all orders over $50 to Priority Shipping to domestic addresses.

There's still time to be a holiday hero! Just click on the links below!

And best of all... you can save 15% on any purchase (no minimum, no exceptions) by entering discount code SAVE15 at checkout at both www.oshunspirit.net and www.oshunspirit.com.

Fair Trade Products • Natural Bath and Body at Sweet Water Spa
Gemstone Oils

Pandora-style Bracelets and Beads
Tachyon Jewelry and Wellness Products

Pashmina, Silk, Bamboo, and Genuine Mudcloth Scarves

Chinese Blooming Teas • Himalayan Red Salt
Salt Lamps • Meditation Pyramids

Intuitive Arts and Healing

Gift Certificates

and hundreds more Hard-to-Find Gifts that Make People Happy!

Oshun Spirit Earth Friendly Goods Gift Certificates are available now!

Choose an Oshun Spirit Earth Friendly Goods Gift Certificate in any amount of $10 or more, in multiples of $10. Gift certificates are sent to you via email as .pdf documents so you can print them out and tuck them into cards, or attach them to email greetings.

Oshun Spirit Gift Certificates are redeemed by entering the code at checkout. They may be used on our website www.oshunspirit.net or at our new storefront on Addoway.com www.oshunspirit.com.

Pandora-style Bracelets and Beads • Tachyon Jewelry and Wellness Products

Pashmina, Silk, Bamboo, and Genuine Mudcloth Scarves

Chinese Blooming Teas • Himalayan Red Salt • Salt Lamps • Meditation Pyramids

Fair Trade Products • Natural Bath and Body at Sweet Water Spa

Gemstone Oils • Metaphysical Services • Personal Growth Programs • Reiki Healing

and hundreds more Hard-to-Find Gifts that Make People Happy!

May your holiday season be filled with love, blessed with peace, and be joyful for family and friends!

Discover super-soft, eco-friendly organic Bamboo clothing at Oshun Spirtit Earth Friendly Goods

Clothing made from bamboo is nature's answer to our needs for everyday fabric, in an environmentally sustainable form. Bamboo fabric is a natural textile made from the pulp of the bamboo grass. Bamboo fabric has been growing in popularity because it has many unique properties and is more sustainable than most textile fibers.  

Bamboo fabric is light and strong, has excellent wicking properties, and is to some extent antibacterial. Our Bamboo socks have been customer favorites since we introduced them in 2003. In fact, we are often sold out! Bamboo fabric is favored by consumers wanting to purchase sustainable textiles, because the bamboo plant is very quick growing and does not usually require the use of pesticides. As a result, plantations can easily be kept organic and replanted yearly to replenish stocks.

• Bamboo is 100% naturally grown, without assistance from man.
• Bamboo thrives naturally without using any pesticides or fertilizers
• Bamboo fibre is 100% biodegradable
• As the fastest growing plant in the world, bamboo grows to its maximum height in about 3 months and reaches maturity in 3-4 years.  It spreads rapidly across large areas.  Because of this, bamboo is known to improve soil quality in degraded and eroded areas of land.
• As a grass, bamboo is cut, not uprooted, also helping soil stability.  Bamboo also can grow on hill slopes where nothing else is viable.
• The amount of product you get from an acre of bamboo is 10 times greater than the yield you get from cotton.  In an age where land use is under enormous pressure this is huge.
• The water requirement for bamboo is minute, mainly just from what falls.  As opposed to cotton, whose water requirement per shirt's-worth is huge.
• Because Bamboo retains many of the properties it has as a plant (highly water absorbent, able to take up three times its weight in water) it has an excellent wicking ability that will pull moisture away from the skin so that it can evaporate. For this reason, clothing made of bamboo fiber is often worn next to the skin. 

In contrast... synthetic performance fabrics are made from petrochemicals, a non-renewable fossil fuel.  You get clothes which get smelly really quickly. Bamboo has antibacterial qualities, which bamboo fabric is apparently able to retain, even through multiple washings. This helps to reduce bacteria that thrive on clothing and cause unpleasant odors. It can also kill odor causing bacteria that live on human skin, making the wearer and his or her clothing smell more sweet. In addition, bamboo fabric has insulating properties and will keep the wearer cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Our Bamboo scarves are very soft and can be worn directly next to the skin. Many people who experience allergic reactions to other natural fibers, such as hemp and wool can wear bamboo. The fiber is naturally smooth and round so there are no sharp spurs to irritate the skin. 
Shown above: Our luxurious Silk/Bamboo scarf (70 x 18 inches) is hand-loomed and cashmere-soft. A Fair Trade hand craft from Thailand, shown in Marigold. Several other colors available at Oshun Spirit Earth Friendly Goods, and at our new storefront on Addoway.com!

Ask and you shall receive!

 

“The world is full of genies waiting to grant your wishes.”

The quote above by Percy Ross describes a profound fact, and that which Christ expressed as a natural law; the Universe responds to those who ask.

“Seek and you shall find. Ask and you shall receive."  

If  you are not receiving maybe that is because you’re not asking. Not really.

In my day to day encounters with clients, I have discovered that most problems that exist in relationships, and around career and abundance issues, arise because we're afraid the person we’re asking will say no.  I might point out to you that it’s a little silly to be afraid that you’re not going to get what you want if you ask... because you are already not getting what you want!

Without asking you already have nothing. What are you afraid of?  Who cares if you don’t get it when you ask for it, because, before you ask for it, you don’t have it anyway. So there’s really nothing to be afraid of.

Another reason for people not asking for what they want is they are afraid that they are unworthy of it.

The solution is to make yourself worthy.

I am reminded of this by my dogs everyday. I will be busy working and suddenly a tennis ball will be dropped on my lap, or a paw laid on my arm to coax my fingers off the keyboard and move behind the ear. I'll hear the jingle of collars and leashes being pulled off the pegs by the back door and within a few seconds all three of them will be in my office ready to go! They live by the principle that it never hurts to ask.  

It is essential to realize that we can't reach our goals without the help of others. Therefore, we must ask them for their help. True, we may not get what we ask for, but we will never get what we don’t ask for!

You can prepare the way by following another universal law, which is, “You only receive what you give away.” In other words, before you can expect others to respond favorably to your requests, you have to willingly cooperate with those asking for your help.  

Be loyal, trustworthy, generous and kind. This sets in motion relationships and networks that are predisposed to help you because you are worthy of it.

To maximize your chances of success, here are some pointers to keep in mind.

• Make your need and desire for help a request, not a demand. Accept refusals graciously. Thank them for their consideration. Show gratitude for help; show understanding when it is not offered.
Make reasonable requests, don’t ask someone to do what you are not willing to do for them.

• Don’t try to get what you want by manipulation. Don't use fear tactics, passive aggressive action, and don’t try to make the other party feel guilty for refusing. Don’t ask for advice or suggestions if all you want is to have someone agree with your preconceptions.

• Don’t ask others to do what you can do without their help. Show some initiative. Don’t beg God, or make deals with the Devil. God helps those who help themselves, use your prayers for prayers of thanksgiving, and don't compromise your personal ethics.

• Remain committed to your goals and don’t get discouraged when your requests for help are turned down. You will never lose if you never quit. Just keep trying. Your efforts will be rewarded, sometimes in ways that are not immediately obvious!

Asking for what you want doesn’t mean you will get everything you ask for. But it does mean you will get more out of life. More love, more joy, more belly rubs, more walks and games of fetch.

Today, enjoy the many rewards that are yours just for the asking!

May you be blessed!

image credit: yattermatters.com

Grounding the Lightbody as Part of the Ascension Process

As we raise our vibrations in preparation for creating the much needed and highly prophecised New Earth Reality, each of us are experiencing and integrating the natural shifts of our evolution in unique ways according to our spiritual understanding and karmic influences. We are in a process known as Ascension.

I hear from many people who have been expressing difficulty with feelings of being disconnected from their bodies, life, and other people. Many awakened people are experiencing very little joy and little ability to manifest in the physical. There are wondrous and beautiful changes are occurring on our planet and within our physical bodies just as there are also many systems and ways of being that are collapsing and nearing extinction. It is natural to grieve over losses even as we are celebrating new possibilities. But beyond that, there is also a real energetic disconnect happening which is resulting in a complete paralysis of the spirit. I'd like to address this short-circuitry.


The issues that so many are experiencing, as they work to raise their frequencies, manifest because the light and energy levels that the spiritual lightbody can hold are considerably higher than the physical body has been capable of processing. This can leave one feeling a deep separation between their body and their spirit as well as an inability to experience joy and peace from their bodies or manifest the simplest desires in their physical world.

As we raise the vibrational frequency of our spiritual selves, we must also do the same for our physical selves. Many people have the perception that the body’s frequency levels raise in unison but that is simply not the case. We must tend to, love, clear, nurture and activate our physical body the same as we do our spiritual body, chakras and energy fields. Proper nutrition, rest, time spent in nature and daily excercise are a must. 

As many of you know I have worked with wild dolphins for many years. These amazing creatures are  a the most precious source of holistic intelligence, joyful, loving, forgiving... and the message that I received most often in the Dolphin chanelling sessions over and over again is this: Bring back the joy, play! When we create from that energy we will indeed create Heaven on Earth.

And, although I've said it before, I'll say it again. We must remember what it is to PLAY with light. We won't be building anything of value as a fear-based reaction to our current circumstances. Now, even as the land is shaking, flooding, and burning all around us must we commit like never before to our physical presence in our bodies.

I'd like you to consider the Earth Star Soul Star Activation process. The Earth Star grounding component alleviates much of the  discomfort when there is an imbalance in your physical/ and spiritual body's frequencies. Ask yourself the following questions:

* Are you finding yourself depleted of energy and vitality?
* Are you experiencing little joy from your physical body?
* Are you unable to manifest/create your desires in your life?
* Do you find it hard to associate with others and prefer to be alone?
* Are you feeling unfocused or forgetful?
* Do you feel ungrounded no matter how much you work on grounding?

If you said yes to any of the above you are probably experiencing an imbalance in your physical/ and spiritual body's frequencies. The Earth Star grounding anchors your spiritual body (your lightbody) into your physical body and your physical body to the chakras of Mother Earth.

This connection is healing to the lower chakras so you can experience life, joy and love from a very present and physical perspective, manifesting and creating all that your Spirit wrapped itself in your physical body to exist in this dimension to accomplish.

For the past decade I have focused my practice in creating Ascension Tools and making my services available to help you make the transition into multi-dimensional living more peaceful and harmonious.
I hope that you will take a moment to explore my products and services, and feel free to contact me if you have any questions.


May You Be Blessed!

Announcing Oshun Spirit at Addoway.com

I'm pleased to announce our newest storefront at Addoway.com  I'm really liking the vibe at this new marketplace, I think they call it  "Know and Trust."

The premise is that because you probably don't like shopping from strangers with an unknown reputation,  Addoway has created a unique fusion of social media and ecommerce, where buyers can connect with sellers they already know,  their friends, and the people they know online and who embrace the concepts of openness and transparency in their business model. 

"Know and Trust." In the Addoway marketplace, you are able  to discover great people to "buy, sell, bargain and trade with", because links to all of their selling sites, blogs, social media ids, feedback from other marketplaces, etc. are right there for you to explore before you make your buying decision.

The feature that I really like is "Display testimonials from Friends."

The feature prompts me (the seller) to... "Ask your real friends on Facebook to give you a testimonial and show buyers how much your friends trust you. Display testimonials from your real Facebook friends on your Addoway profile, giving buyers more confidence that they are dealing with a trustworthy seller with real friends who are willing to endorse them."

I know that in the six years that I've been selling online, it is referrals from you, my customer friends, which mean the most to new clients. Your good word  helps me to extend the scope of my services, and your feedback is the inspiration in expanding my product line in meaningful and practical ways. Thank you, so very much!

One more cool thing about Addoway: Because it is free for me to list and does not charge a fee on sold items like most marketplaces, I can use the venue to offer special values,  product lines for less, and blow-out clearance sales.  I'll be offering some super deals in the next few days so be sure to stop by and visit while I'm filling up the store. 

And while you're around, I ask you to take a moment  and please leave a product or service specific testimonial by clicking on the link provided (Connect with Facebook). Share your shopping experiences at Oshun Spirit, or leave a remark about metaphysical or healing services you have enjoyed. In doing so, you'll be helping others make informed choices based on real experience, from a real person. 

 "Know,  Trust, and be Well!"

Once again, I thank you for your continued patronage and support.  I'll see you at Addoway!
http://www.addoway.com/oshunspirit

Choosing Reflection over Reaction: Tools for Transformation

 

We are living in challenging times. Yes, times they are a changin'! Human beings are tranforming, whether we want to, like it, or not. Our global economy, climate change, their politics, our politics... the call for compassion, sustainability, human rights...

We Lightworkers have actively been working toward this moment for several decades, and now en masse, humanity's (panicky) collective consciousness is seeking ways to become pro-active rather than reactive to the changes in our lives lest we become totally freaked out!

Recently a client asked me how to best remain calm, focused, and relaxed in the midst of her financial life, relationship life, and spiritual life all in obvious transistions. As we talked, it became obvious that there's really one good answer. Reflect before you act. Expect and respect the unexpected. And, say  "thank you", no matter what.

I approach each day with the attitude that there’s going to be at least one aha moment that will challenge my beliefs or behavior, an important lesson, and probably plenty of teachable moments coming. So I look for them and welcome them as interesting oppportunities for discovery rather than fear or dread them as negative, embarrasing, or stressful.

I also feed my capacity for creativity and innovation by participating in inspiring moments and things I find JOY in doing. I find time to indulge in things that provide sustenance to my  creative soul and curious mind. And, I don't feel guilty about it.  I value play’s ability to keep my mind sharp, agile and open to unpredictable moments. The beauty of play is that the lessons I learned in childhood bubble up and remain valuable in every aspect of my life – communication, problem-solving, ingenuity, innovation, resourcefulness, and creativity – all useful skills to enhance my human potential to be calm, compassionate, and courageous in any given moment.

I believe that good, personal health habits are a must. I eat right, drink plenty of water, get the rest I need when I need it, and I find time to both meditate and walk at least an hour a day. It is a priority. Obstacles can become opportunities when approached with imagination, innovation, and a healthy body, mind and spirit.  A healthy lifestyle ensures that you possess the energy as well as the ability to overcome all things. Yes, we are what we eat. And, we are who we think we are.

You also need a daily commitment, passion, intention, discipline, honest and real effort, patience and belief that your soul's work will be rewarded in time. You gotta trust the process and be committed to your dream even when unexpected change happens. Pray, meditate, then get over it, turn the page. Release it to the Universe. Stop obsessing.

If that sounds unsympathetic, well I guess it may be. But no one serves themselves or anyone else a heaping helping of love and light by playing the victim. Remember: You have the capacity to be tremendously resilient. You possess an ability to be resourceful, creative, healthy, and joyful.
Just say, "thank you."
No matter what...

May you be blessed!

Finding Oshun in a Touchstone Strand of Tachyon Journey Beads

Tachyon Touchstone Strands are a flexible way to enjoy your Journey Beads. They can be held in prayer and meditation, used as a bookmark, or kept in your pocket to touch while you are waiting in line, talking on the telephone, or out walking. But unlike traditional Rosary or Mala Beads, Journey Beads Touchstone Strands are about 8" long. They are designed to discreetly fit in your pocket and palm so you can use them anywhere and in any situation. Touchstone strands are very soothing to the touch, and their energy is lovely, by design!

What follows is not intended to dictate how to pray, but rather is a suggested structure into which you can place your Journey Beads to assist you in creating your own, very personalized prayer, mediation or healing practice. It draws upon the prayer practices of a number of religious and spiritual traditions and seeks to put together a pattern of prayer that you can tailor to your own needs. This practice uses the image of a journey, one form of prayer moving into the next.

Preparation: The first, largest bead provides a way into this prayer journey. While touching it, I gently breathe in and out a few times, recite a passage that centers me and creates a space within for the prayer that is to follow.

In this set, I have chosen a copper washed Murano Glass Tachyon Bead (approx 1.5 x 2 inches) to begin this Touchstone Strand. It is not flat, but slightly curved to please the touch! The Spiral is an ancient and powerful symbol, reflecting this energy known as the oneness, unconditional divine love, and Zero Point energy. The living spiral does not begin or end, it is an ongoing process of the discovery of the essence that connects all things. I relate the spiral to Goddess Energy, the Amber, Carnelian and Copper flow symbolizes Oshun and serves as a beautiful offering.

Entering In: With the four small spiral spacer beads at the beginning of the prayer strand, I enter into this "journey” of prayer. Spacer Beads remind me to breathe, relax, enjoy the moment, and have faith that my journey is unfolding as it should. The spiral is a symbol of the spiritual journey of learning and growing. It seems that life doesn't proceed in a straight line. The path of life more closely resemble a spiral. We seem to pass the same point over and over again but from a different perspective each time. The spiral stands for coming into being.

It can symbolize:

    * Evolution and holistic growth

    * Letting go, surrender, release

    * An awareness of the one within the context of the whole

    * Connectivity and union with universal energies

    * Revolutions of time, stars, planets and the way of natural progress


With each bead I recite (you can assign passages here from any tradition or create your own):

Open my eyes, that I might see your face in everyone I encounter this day, myself included.

Open my ears, that I might hear your voice in whatever forms it takes.

Open my hands, that I might freely give whatever is mine to share.

Open my heart, that I might live and love more fully in you.

I take the time here to be fully intentional about my practice.

Naming: The first Affirmation Bead is for naming the sacred and the holy of your understanding. In traditional prayer terminology, this is praise and thanksgiving. I think of it as naming the places in my life where miracles abound, a chance to "count my blessings,” and a way of beginning my prayer centered in the awareness of the ways in which the holy is happening in my life.

I have chosen black Murano glass beads with copper and white spirals around the bead. These represent the ability to be fully present and grounded, while maintaining the energy of the higher planes.

"I am safe and secure at all times.

I am divinely protected and guided and my way is made smooth and easy.

I am willing to release all my old patterns of fear and insecurity to live with joy and well-being now.

I trust in the process of my life to unfold for my highest good and greatest joy.

I am creating a healthy foundation on which creativity can flourish."

The Three Spiral Spacer Beads: The three small beads between the Affirmation Beads are for "breath prayer.” Many of the world’s religious traditions encourage a short, repetitive prayer tied to the breath. You say one line on the in-breath and a second on the out-breath. Part of the power of a breath prayer is its repetition. Live with it long enough for it to become a part of you.

I repeat, "I am, Oshun"

Knowing: The second Affirmation Bead is for giving voice to the broken, wounded, worried places in your soul. (Traditionally, this is called a prayer of confession.) It is the chance to take a "fearless moral inventory” and to give voice to what lurks in the shadow. Prayer calls on us to be authentic, whole people, and knowing where we are weak and wounded is essential. Here is where deep healing takes root.

Listening: The third Affirmation Bead is for listening to "the voice of quiet stillness” within. This is a chance to sit in the Mystery, gently breathing. (Depending on the tradition, this is called meditation or contemplation.) Far too often, people think of prayer as "talking to the sacred,” forgetting that in any good conversation we must make room to listen as well as speak.

Loving: The fourth and last Affirmation Bead provides a place to bring the concerns of others—family, friends, communities, the world—into your prayer. These prayers of intercession, as they are traditionally called, are a chance to encourage your prayer to move outward. Call to mind people and situations you know who are in need, or sit quietly and see who (or what) comes to mind.

Closing: Whatever I said to enter into my prayer time, I repeat with the four beads at the end of the strand.

Putting It All Together: I carry my beads with me everywhere, and I find that simply touching them brings me into a prayerful, powerful place where I can love and be love in any situation.

I'd love to help you create a set especially for you! We can work with colors and affirmations to assist you or someone you love on the journey to health, happiness, and fulfillment. Design consultation is free of charge. Please visit Journey Beads at Bonanzle.com http://www.Bonanzle.com/JourneyBeads or email me at suberry@myfairpoint.net.

May you be blessed!