Life's journey is often characterized by peaks and valleys, moments of joy and sorrow, growth and stagnation. In the realm of personal and spiritual development, there's a concept that encapsulates one of the most profound and challenging experiences: the Dark Night of the Soul. This concept, often attributed to spiritual and philosophical traditions, speaks to a period of intense inner turmoil, questioning, and transformation. In this blog, I'll delve into the essence of the Dark Night of the Soul, explore its significance, and discuss ways to navigate this transformative journey.
The Essence of the Dark Night of the Soul
The Dark Night of the Soul refers to a phase in one's spiritual or personal development journey where an individual undergoes a deep and unsettling crisis of the self. This crisis is marked by a profound sense of emptiness, disillusionment, and a feeling of being disconnected from one's purpose or spiritual foundation. The term was popularized by mystic and poet Saint John of the Cross, who described it as a period of spiritual dryness and detachment from God.
However, the Dark Night of the Soul is not limited to religious or spiritual contexts. It can also manifest as a psychological and emotional experience, often triggered by life events such as loss, trauma, or intense personal challenges. During this phase, individuals may grapple with existential questions, identity crisis, and an overwhelming sense of despair.
Significance of the Dark Night
While the Dark Night of the Soul is undeniably distressing, it holds immense significance in the journey of personal growth and transformation. This period of darkness serves as a crucible for profound change and self-discovery. It's a space where old beliefs, attachments, and ways of being are stripped away, making room for a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.
- Ego Dissolution: The Dark Night challenges the ego, the constructed sense of self. As the ego is dismantled, individuals confront their insecurities, fears, and illusions. This process is uncomfortable but necessary for authentic self-awareness.
- Re-aligning Values: This phase often prompts a reevaluation of one's values, goals, and relationships. What once seemed important may lose its significance, leading to a more authentic alignment with one's true desires.
- Spiritual Awakening: For those on a spiritual path, the Dark Night can lead to profound spiritual awakening. The crisis prompts seekers to explore deeper layers of spirituality and find a more genuine connection to their beliefs.
Navigating the Darkness: Embracing Transformation
- Acceptance and Surrender: Resisting the Dark Night only intensifies the struggle. Embracing the experience with acceptance and surrender allows individuals to flow with the process, fostering a sense of inner peace amid the chaos.
- Self-Compassion: Practicing self-compassion is crucial. The journey through the Dark Night is a testament to your strength and resilience. Treat yourself with the kindness you would offer a dear friend.
- Seeking Support: You don't have to navigate the Dark Night alone. Seeking support from friends, family, therapists, or spiritual mentors can provide much-needed guidance and a sense of connection.
- Creative Expression: Engage in creative activities that allow you to express your emotions and thoughts. Writing, painting, music, and other forms of artistic expression can help you process and understand the depth of your experience.
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Cultivating mindfulness and engaging in meditation practices can help you observe your thoughts and emotions without attachment. This detachment can provide clarity and perspective.
Conclusion
The Dark Night of the Soul, while challenging, is a profound opportunity for growth, transformation, and self-discovery. It's a reminder that the path to authenticity often requires traversing the depths of our inner landscape. By embracing the darkness with openness and a willingness to learn, we can emerge from the experience with newfound wisdom, resilience, and a deeper connection to ourselves and the world around us.
Today it’s the 8th of August 2023 and it’s the Lions’ Gate Portal. This is considered to be one of the most powerful times for manifestation, so take some time out to connect within and breathe life into the things you truly dream off and create a bright vision for the future.
You can start manifesting your dream life!
So, what is the Lion’s Gate portal, exactly?
Lions gate occur when the bright blue fixed star Sirius perfectly aligns with Orion’s Belt and the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. When this connects with the sun in Leo, it takes on a whole new force of power. It can be intense and powerful, as well as beautiful and magical. The portal’s opening is a time to manifest change and to bring our hopes to reality. The sun is in Leo and it’s a great time to crate and move forward with your heartfelt vision. When the Lion’s Gate is being activated, we can also ignite our heartfelt passions and feel them becoming real in this now moment.
The Lion’s Gate opens up on the 8th of the 8th. The number 8 is a magical number because it aligns with success and transformation. It can help up evolve to a higher level. Prosperity and abundance come naturally to the number eight, which is why it’s a rich day to manifest your dreams. You can change and prosper from your visions at this time and they will come true as long as you are clear on what you desire and it’s an honest dream.
This period can bring love, luck, positivity and optimism. It can bring abundance. The energy at this time can help us get rid of negativity and pessimism.
Embrace the energy at this time and stay in your heart. Get real of who you are. Now is the time to embrace you and what you love. What relationships are working for you. Do you speak from your heart? If there is something in your life that does not bring your joy, now is the time to let it go.
Instead it’s the time to get into things and spend time with people who truly spark that joy and love in you.
Remember – the world and the future is limitless.
YOU CAN CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT – as long as you heart is completely invested in it.
So today my friend - STAY IN YOUR HEART. CONNECT, GO WITHIN
Sending Light & Love
Karin
Here is a video going into more depth on what's the Lion's Gate is.
Are you suffering Pain, inflammation, autuimmune, dis-ease ....
Click on image below.
Welcome to a world of indulgence and elegance, where the sweet scent of roses can transform your self-care routine and enhance your well-being. Discover the pure essence of roses with Young Living's exquisite Rose Essential Oils – a treasure trove of relaxation, beauty, and natural wellness.
Unleash the Power of Nature:
Young Living's Rose Essential Oils are carefully crafted from the finest roses, handpicked at sunrise when their fragrance is at its peak. Through a meticulous distillation process, they capture the essence of these exquisite blooms, ensuring that our oils contain the maximum therapeutic properties to nurture your mind, body, and spirit.
Experience the Benefits:
1. Emotional Balance: Known for its comforting and uplifting aroma, Rose Essential Oils can elevate your mood, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. Let its beautiful scent envelop you, helping you find your inner tranquility when life gets overwhelming.
2. Skincare Wonder: Harness the anti-aging properties of Rose Essential Oils to revitalize and nourish your skin. Its natural astringent properties can help tone and tighten, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while deeply hydrating and promoting a radiant complexion.
3. Create an Ambiance: Transform your space into a fragrant haven with the diffusing capabilities of Rose Essential Oils. Infuse any room with a gentle touch of floral elegance and create an atmosphere of romance, relaxation, or peacefulness.
4. Enhanced Wellness: Unlock the potential of the rose's immune-supporting properties. Incorporate Rose Essential Oils into your daily routine to boost your overall wellness and strengthen your body's natural defenses.
Why Choose Young Living?
Young Living's commitment to purity and authenticity is unwavering. They take great care to ensure that their Rose Essential Oils are sourced ethically and sustainably, without compromise. Each drop of our oils is rigorously tested for quality, ensuring that you receive only the best nature has to offer.
Join our community of like-minded individuals who have already experienced the incredible benefits of Young Living's Rose Essential Oils. Discover how these precious oils can enhance your self-care routine, uplift your spirits, and bring a touch of luxury into your life.
Experience the essence of roses with Young Living today and embrace a life of beauty, balance, and wellness!
Have you heard of the spice Turmeric. It seems to be the herb that many people resort to know, particularly as people are starting to learn that is can be helpful to combat inflammation.
I started doing a little more research about Turmeric a while ago as I have had some issues with inflammation in my joints. I learnt that when combining fresh turmeric with oil and black pepper it increases the amount that the body absorbs - it increases what is called the bioavailability. I have taken turmeric supplements for a long time (very good quality) with little relief, so I started giving fresh turmeric a go with a little oil and black pepper essential oil from young living. I have found this a little hard to keep up doing and I still did not get profound result. Now I have found a better way.
What is Turmeric?
Turmeric is a yellow-colored spice derived from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, which belongs to the ginger family. It is commonly used as a culinary spice in many cuisines, particularly in Indian, Southeast Asian, and Middle Eastern cooking. Turmeric has been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine for its potential health benefits.
The key bioactive compound in turmeric is called curcumin, which is responsible for its vibrant color and many of its therapeutic properties. Curcumin has been the subject of extensive scientific research due to its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. However, it's important to note that the bioavailability of curcumin is relatively low, meaning that it may not be efficiently absorbed and utilized by the body when consumed alone.
Turmeric and Curcumin are used for various purposes, including:
1. Anti-inflammatory and Pain Relief: Curcumin has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and other inflammatory disorders. It is also used for its potential analgesic (pain-relieving) effects.
2. Antioxidant Support: Curcumin acts as a potent antioxidant, helping to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants are important for combating oxidative stress, which is associated with various chronic diseases and aging.
3. Digestive Health: Turmeric is used to support digestive health by promoting healthy digestion, reducing bloating, and soothing gastrointestinal discomfort. It may also aid in the management of conditions like dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
4. Liver Health: Turmeric is believed to have hepatoprotective properties, helping to support liver health and detoxification processes. It may be used as a supportive therapy in liver diseases or as part of a liver cleanse.
5. Skin Health: Turmeric is used topically in skincare products for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It may help with conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis, promoting healthy skin.
6. Cognitive Support: Curcumin has been investigated for its potential neuroprotective effects and its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. It is being studied for its potential role in supporting cognitive function and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
What is inflammation?
Inflammation is a natural protective response of the body's immune system to injury, infection, or irritation. It is a complex biological process involving various cells, chemicals, and molecular signals. The primary purpose of inflammation is to remove harmful stimuli, initiate the healing process, and restore tissue homeostasis. However, inflammation can also occur inappropriately or persistently, leading to chronic inflammation, which can contribute to the development and progression of certain diseases.
The causes of inflammation can vary depending on the specific situation, but common triggers include:
1. Infections: Bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections can activate the immune system and trigger an inflammatory response. Examples include respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and skin infections.
2. Tissue Damage: Physical injury, trauma, burns, or surgical procedures can cause tissue damage, leading to an inflammatory response. The immune system activates to repair the damaged tissues, resulting in localized inflammation.
3. Autoimmune Disorders: In autoimmune disorders, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues, leading to chronic inflammation. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease are examples of autoimmune disorders.
4. Allergies: Allergic reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances, such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods. This immune response triggers inflammation, leading to symptoms like itching, redness, swelling, and respiratory problems.
5. Chronic Diseases: Certain chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and some types of cancer, are associated with low-grade, chronic inflammation. In these conditions, persistent inflammation can contribute to disease progression and complications.
6. Environmental Factors: Exposure to environmental pollutants, toxins, or irritants, such as air pollution, cigarette smoke, or certain chemicals, can trigger inflammation in the body.
7. Lifestyle Factors: Unhealthy lifestyle choices, including a poor diet, sedentary behavior, chronic stress, and inadequate sleep, can contribute to systemic inflammation.
It's important to note that while inflammation is a natural response and necessary for healing and defense against pathogens, chronic inflammation can have detrimental effects on health. Lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can help reduce the risk of chronic inflammation and associated diseases.
What is water?
Water is a chemical compound composed of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom, with the molecular formula H2O. It is a transparent, odorless, and tasteless liquid at standard temperature and pressure. Water is the most abundant substance on Earth's surface and plays a vital role in supporting life as we know it.
Water molecules have a bent or V-shaped structure due to the arrangement of the hydrogen and oxygen atoms. The oxygen atom is more electronegative than the hydrogen atoms, creating a partial negative charge near the oxygen atom and partial positive charges near the hydrogen atoms. This polarity gives water its unique properties and enables it to form hydrogen bonds with other water molecules and other polar substances.
Water exists in three states: solid, liquid, and gas. At temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit), water freezes and becomes a solid, commonly known as ice. At temperatures between 0 degrees Celsius and 100 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit and 212 degrees Fahrenheit), water is a liquid. At temperatures above 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit), water boils and transforms into a gas, known as steam or water vapor.
Water is the most important substance we will ever put into our bodies - next to Oxygen
Did you know that adults are 75% water and children even higher!
Children lose 8 cups of water per day, adults up to 12 cups.
The exact percentage can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, body composition, and overall health. Water is found in various parts of the body, including cells, tissues, blood, and organs.
Our Blood is mostly water, this water supports our body functioning at an optimum, every moment of every day!
Water is essential for numerous bodily functions and plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health.
Here are some reasons why water is important for people to drink:
- Hydration: Drinking an adequate amount of water is vital for maintaining proper hydration. Water helps regulate body temperature, lubricate joints, and support the function of organs, including the heart, brain, and kidneys. It also aids in digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Nutrient Transport: Water acts as a medium for transporting nutrients throughout the body. It dissolves and carries essential vitamins, minerals, and other substances to cells, enabling them to function properly.
- Waste Removal: Water plays a critical role in eliminating waste products from the body. It helps flush out toxins, waste materials, and byproducts of metabolism through urine, sweat, and bowel movements.
- Joint and Tissue Health: Adequate water intake helps lubricate joints, reducing friction and supporting smooth movement. It also helps keep tissues, such as those in the eyes, mouth, and nose, moist and functioning properly.
- Energy and Brain Function: Water is involved in the production of energy at the cellular level. It helps transport oxygen to cells and supports the delivery of nutrients needed for energy metabolism. Proper hydration is also important for maintaining cognitive function and concentration.
- Digestion and Absorption: Water aids in the digestion and absorption of food. It helps break down food particles, facilitates the movement of nutrients across the intestinal wall, and prevents constipation by promoting regular bowel movements.
- Skin Health: Drinking sufficient water is beneficial for skin health. It helps maintain skin moisture, elasticity, and suppleness, reducing the risk of dryness, wrinkles, and other skin problems.
- Exercise and Physical Performance: Staying hydrated is crucial for athletes and individuals engaging in physical activity. Water helps regulate body temperature during exercise, prevents dehydration, and supports optimal performance.
It is important to note that individual water needs may vary based on factors such as activity level, climate, and overall health.
Did you know that water has memory.
The Japanese Scientist Dr. Emoto explains it in the video here
Not all Water is the Same
The right water is:
- Clean with toxins, contaminants & chemicals filtered out
- Balanced with a range of alkaline minerals to aid absorption by the body
- Structured with water clusters small enough for absorption at a cellular level
Zazen Alkaline Water System recreates Mother Nature’s Water Secret & transforms your drinking water into refreshing, alkaline mineral water that tastes great and hydrates you at a cellular level. Just like natural spring water.
It has been designed by zazen, in collaboration with leading Japanese and Korean water scientists, who discovered that the health and longevity secret of the world’s oldest and healthiest people lay in the quality of the water they drank and bathed in every day
The Benefits of drinking zazen Alkaline Water
- Supports a more alkaline less acidic body
- Helps to eliminate toxins & acidic waste Improves absorption & use of nutrients Increases cellular energy flow & vitality
- Helps to boost immune function Improves performance & focus
- Supports better quality sleep Reduces fatigue and headaches
I can send you a brochure and more information about the Zazen Water Systems
