The Five-Fold Offering: Connection To Source Through Manifest Prayer

Somewhere deep within the spiritual and genetic vaults of our beings is a desire to bring our prayer into tangible form. Since the dawn of time, this manifestation of prayer has come in the form of ritual offerings to the Most High. By allowing material items of value and connection to become ‘translators’ of prayer matter into prayer energy, we are allowing the prayer process to be not just about thoughts, visualization, and emotion- but about the bodies we inhabit and the world in which we live as well. Ritual offerings are a true rite in ‘holistic prayer’, and in this article I’d like to explore with you some simple ways you can bring these rites into your spiritual journey right now!

The Five-Fold Offering As Mirror Of The Soul

Whenever we give thanks to the Divine, or petition the Divine for help needed, we are involving the full spectrum of powers within the 5 primal elements of our life journey. These are expressed as body/earth, emotions & base desire/water, action & manifestation/fire, thoughts & visualization/air, and energy/life power. Anything we experience in this life in some way includes a portion of each of the above elemental expressions. The personal manifestation of the elements (thought, body, emotions, etc.) is personal, where the primal manifestation (earth, air, energy, etc.) is cosmic. By recognizing these five core building blocks of manifestation, and realizing how we use them in our every day affairs, we can feel a connection and closeness to the big picture that is both comforting and awe-inspiring.

The five-fold offering, which is mirrored in varied ways by traditions across time and location allows us to use these foundational powers to solidify, actualize, release and transform our prayers from this realm to the next.

By selecting offerings which resonate with our desires/purpose of prayer, we are plucking the spiritual ideal from the vagueness of the mind and making it come to life before us. This way, spirituality becomes active in the material world we call home right now. Once the offerings have been set- they then act to carry the prayer in a more direct and magnified way to the realm of All Possibility!

Making offerings can be done for a cosmic Divine ideal, a personal Deity, a Patron or the Universal Intelligence. In addition, the offerings themselves allow the prayerful to take time selecting things which they find meaningful, connected to the desire and valuable in general.

A sacred space such as an altar or shrine can be used, or a simple tabletop area which has been cleaned works just as well. Any additions you choose to make such as flowers, cloth, images, statues, etc. is up to you.

The offerings you choose must be meaningful to you, and should have a resonance of personal value and sacrifice. Don’t offer things which you are personally impartial to- or the connection will not be made properly.

Defining Your Goal And Selecting Your Offerings

Have your desire/prayer goal/thanksgiving clear in mind. Spend as much time making it as clear and direct as you can. Once you’ve accomplished that, it’s time to select offerings which are compatible to your goal. Common offerings in harmony with the elements are food for earth, water for water, candle for fire, incense/fragrance for air, action for energy. We’ll use these common associations in the next step.

So let’s say your prayer goal is a healing for a loved one….

• Your earth/food can be something that reminds you of the ill person- something they love to eat.
• Your water/water can be pure water for purity, or an herbal tea with resonant healing qualities.
• Your fire/candle can be in a healing color, a favorite color of the ill friend or can simply be a flame to bring light of healing and to burn away the illness.
• Your Air/scent can be herbal incense, a favorite perfume of the ill person, or essential oil resonant to the illness.
• Your energy/action will be words of supplication and gratitude spoken aloud, as well as the action used to gather and place the offerings.

For abundance, think of offering a few dollars to be then given as a blessing to charity.

As you can see, this can be applied to any type of prayer working you choose. For love prayers, you may choose traditional symbols of love to offer such as chocolate food offerings, rose oil perfume, rose water, etc. Do what feels right- and always ensure the items you choose to offer mean something to you!

The Prayer Working

The process you use to do a ritual prayer offering can be as simple or complex as you choose. I always teach that you should spend more time in the energy section of the offering than you do in the 4 other elements. It should be about meditation, prayer, expectancy and gratitude-in-advance no matter what you decide.

Choose clean vessels (plates, bowls, candle holder, incense holder, etc.) to use during your working. Spend time ensuring that what you offer ON is in good repair and feels clean and looks nice to you. This is a great time to break out the fine china… after all, who could be a better guest than Source?

Assemble your offerings. Take some time with each offering to first wash/wipe/cleanse through visualization/etc. Once cleansed, each item should be spoken to to define why it was chosen (i.e. Walnuts for the wisdom I seek, etc.) and how nice it is. This connects the items to you, and connects you to their power.

It is extremely important to remember that offertory work is NOT a bribe! This work is done as a manifestation of internal prayer- and nothing more. We are not ‘giving this to get that’ from Source in this work- we are simply connecting in a more tangible, powerful way based solely on gratitude and the desire to offer something pleasing to Source. It is also important to remember that Source NEEDS NOTHING! We are not ‘feeding God’ to keep It alive- rather we are asking It to share in what it already owns. Toxicity in these understandings can create so many problems in ritual workings- so please take as much time as needed to meditate on these truths until you are confident they are in your consciousness on all levels.

Assemble the items in a pleasing way on the sacred space of your choice.

Feel free to include background music, preliminary meditation, incense, candles, etc. Whatever gets you in the mood for prayer magic!

• Calm and center yourself. Get clear about your purpose for doing this working.
• Connect with your inner true self, then with Divinity.
• Present your offerings, and one by one in the order of earth, water, fire, air, then energy, present them individually by touching them or pointing to them. Explain to the Divine why you are offering these gifts of gratitude. Be proud of what you have selected to raise energy, but maintain humility and a sense of dependence at the same time to ensure that the ego doesn’t consume the offerings before they reach the Divine platform.
• Ask clearly and with confidence that the Divine ‘partake and consume’ what you have offered, asking that it be pleasurable, loving and reciprocal.

After the four physical offerings have been made, move on to a detailed and heartfelt prayer. It’s always good to begin with a glorification of Divine mercy to attune to that energy, then to ask, then to meditate on the results being received by you (or whomever you are praying for) in totally surrender and fullness.

Once you feel the offerings have been received- and in many cases there will be a ’switch’ in the energy feeling of the offerings…

• Again state gratitude and thanks for the offerings being accepted and the prayer being moved to manifestation.
• Intend that the now sanctified items which have passed into the high spiritual realm and back again be blessed to carry the power of manifestation into our world.
• You may now, in a serene and meditative mindset, eat/drink/smell/admire the remnants. If this is for someone else, you may wish to give the food and water to them to take into their bodies, and allow the candle and incense to burn themselves out. I often like to save one of the offerings to be placed outside as a gift for all people on the earth who may need the same type of help I am asking for. This level of compassion wells up huge amounts of energy- and it seems appropriate to me to use the incense usually since I can imagine it moving across the world and touching those who need it.
• The process of consuming blessed offerings is extremely powerful when done with awareness. If you don’t want to tell a person that the food is special- that’s okay too, and it won’t change a thing!
• Allow yourself to bathe in the power of having taken in Divine-blessed energy in a tangible way… and I bet that apple tasted a whole lot sweeter than usual, too!

With prayers for all peace, empowerment, health and joy…

Josh Williams

Getting Primitive: Drawing Down Your Wishes!

Greetings! In this article, I’d like to offer you a super-powerful technique focusing on anything you want to draw into your life and making it happen with the full power of the Divine! This technique has been used since the dawn of time, and even pre-historic hunter/gatherers knew about it! Let’s get primitive in this article and make some magic happen!

Writing On The Wall

One of the most fascinating relics left behind from the ‘lithic’ (megalithic, neolithic etc. prehistorical peoples) folks are the cave paintings they created. Steeped in obvious symbolism and innate power, these designs were scribed onto the walls of pitch-black caves by tallow-light using the flint blades or red ocher finger paint. Scenes depicting the animals they needed to kill in order to survive, abundant crops, healthy women with child, and other ideals of fertility are the main topic of most all cave paintings. In most of these paintings, the animals are shown strong and healthy, with either arrows, traps or spears drawn onto them. Occasionally, the mystic-artist would dip their own hand into red ocher paint and apply a hand stamp over the animal- showing the he has caught it and it is within his grasp.

Cave Magic

Most experts agree that the spellbinding art found on cave walls is not a testament to history, a record of hunts or even tributes to rich tribe members- but rather a stunning display of sympathetic magic. Ancient mystics believed that an image of a thing was intimately linked to the reality of that thing- so that by creating a clear and vivid image of a mammoth, and then applying successful spear or axe wounds to that image, success on the actual hunt was guaranteed. In addition to paintings, the hunters would also carry around small bone, stone or ivory animal carvings representing the animal they wished to catch. This, they believed, would allow them to resonate with that animal and draw it towards them.

Through the process of sympathetic magic, the goal we want to achieve is manifest through creativity (painting, drawing, sculpting, etc., or in advanced levels purely within the mind-scape) and made as ‘real’ as possible within our paradigm. Then, the relationship we want to have with that goal is applied to the image to create a strong bond of magnetic resonance.

Timeless Attraction

I’ve always loved the process of studying and exploring the spiritual ways of our shared ancestors. I think that working, as best we can, with the methods our earliest fore-bearers realized links us to a stream of power which is literally tens of thousands of years old. It’s also interesting to see how what experts in this field have discovered about the spirituality and religion of the ancients has been carried in to even modern spiritual paths. Working with any form of mystic spiritual working that has history can lend us the power of its history if we simply acknowledge and honor that stream of ancestral power and wisdom.

Echoes From The Cave Into Your Life

Applying the power of sympathetic magic, as performed simply by the ancients, is both fun and effective. It allows us the opportunity to get closer to our goal by actualizing it from the depths of our creative, emotional, logical and spiritual centers. It also allows us to interact with it as though it already exists in our paradigm- which in and of itself attunes us to the law of attraction.

To make your own ‘cave paintings’ calling on the universal law of sympathy, try the following:

• Draw a picture of your patron deity/deities. Then, place in their hands or at their feet a representation of the goal you wish to manifest. Allow Them to become the face of the Divine which specializes in that goal. Hang the picture up somewhere special and use it for meditation, prayer, offerings or rituals. In ancient cave sanctuaries, the Mother Goddess or Sky God were often painted on walls that had a large stone altar directly in front of them. In this way, mystics could approach the facet of Divinity which was directly connected to their desire.
• Draw yourself in possession of your goal. Add things to yourself in drawing that make it personal- date of birth, favorite jewelry, favorite colors, etc. Draw yourself into the reality of having what you want- and use that drawing as a type of magnet to call forth your wish. Spend time with it daily in positive expectation and gratitude.
• For a really fun experience which is slightly more ritualistic in nature, draw or sculpt a representation of your goal. Make it as vivid and clear as you can. Spend time having fun putting energy and attention into it. Once you’re done, smear the palm of your left hand with your favorite color of water-based paint (poster paint, finger paint, etc.) and stamp your palm print onto the icon. In this way, you are ‘marking your goal’ and stating to yourself and to the universe that it belongs to you- and that you are rerady and willing to receive it. The left hand is energetically receptive, which acts upon subtle body energy to draw forth the goal.
• You can get really creative and make cave paintings on 7-day candles, allowing them to release the power of the sympathetic magic as they burn…
• You could also make small clay talismans or icons to wear, connecting you to your goal just as the ancients did…
• You could create cards you keep on a shrine or in your pocket showing you in possession of the goal…
• You could really reflect the ways of thew ancients by drawing in the snow or sand and allowing nature to ‘absorb and direct’ the power of your goal, again just as the ancients did.

This work not only helps attune you to the limitless potentials of your journey- it also helps connect you with the blessed ancients and to the fundamental spiritual powers which flow throughout time and place. Working in this way activates the creativity and inspires the heart to believe anything and expect miracles!

If you create something you’d like to share or have empowered, please send me a photo- I’d love to see your cave art!

Peace & Blessings on the timeless path of infinite possibility…

 

Josh Williams

 

Powerful & Simple Candle Magic & Prayer Working

Throughout time, candles have served a central position in spiritual symbolism. Adorning altars, sacred places, tombs and sanctuaries, candles serve to illuminate and warm with the power of spiritual intent. In this article, I’d like to explore with you why candles are so powerful- and how you can create super powerful magic and prayer workings on your own to manifest just about anything you want!

The 5 Elements Of Manifestation

All life as expressed in this world is based upon the spiritual and physical powers of the 5 elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air & Spirit. These elements, both in their spiritual and physical states, act as empowerment and matrix for all life to be manifest. Countless ages of magicians and mystics have honored this understanding and used it to help bring forth their intent into reality.

Within the symbolism of the candle- these 5 elements are present, which is part of why candles are so popular in spiritual magic practices.

Solid Wax: Represents the solid earth, matter, form and linear function

Melted Wax: Represents warer, flow, fluidity, and the transmission of spirit into matter

Flame: Represents the fire of creation, the light of the will and the warmth of Divine blessing

Heat/Scent: Represents air, the unseen spiritual force of manifestation.

The fifth element, energy, comes with our intentional ‘charging and empowering’ of the candle. We’ll explore that more later on.

The combination of these 5 elements in one simple candle form makes working with the primal forces of nature as simple as striking a match! In candle magic, we work backwards- taking the spirit of our idea (energy) and making it clear (air), then transforming it (fire) so that it may pass (water) from the realm of spirit into the realm of matter (earth).

Candle magic offers us the chance to interact with the truth of elemental potency while getting closer to our own will and the flow of Divine power in our lives. Excellent!

What Candles Teach Us

Before we get to the practice, we have to first follow the rite of candle magic in spirit.

• With the solid wax of the candle we must contemplate what our goal looks like when it’s manifest in ‘real life’ How does it feel? How does it change our life? How does it impact others? We must work with solid wax level by truly getting behind and in tune with the reality of our intention.
• With the liquid wax of the candle we must contemplate the fact that all things in our lives are based in energy. We must recognize that a spiritual process of ‘transmutation’ from energy to action will take place- and honor the time that may take, space it may need, changes it may call us to create, and infinite ways in which it may happen
• With the flame of the candle we are called to shed full light upon our goal to purify it of any ill intent, ensure it is in accord with Divine law, and check that it is for the good of all who may gather around the fire.
• With the heat and scent of the candle we must honor that all things begin in the realm of Spirit, and that all things we create are are own- empowered by the Divine. We must use the air space here to pray, supplicate, offer and open up.
• With the energy of the candle, we are stepping into the cycle of manifestation instead of viewing it from outside. We are participating fully in our own journey and are acting as channel to the limitless Divine.

The Working

After following the above steps, we know what our intent is, how it fits into our lives, that it is pure and positive for all, and that we truly are ready to receive it.

The process now is simply that of attuning or empowering the candle to ‘magnetize’ to that goal. Remember that we are working with a powerful symbol of the five elements and the light of spiritual power!

In choosing your candle- follow your intuition. 7-day candles, soy candles and prayer-intended candles are always best, but do what feels right. You may also want to include a special color choice or fragrance choice in your candle which resonates with your goal.

Here is my personal process for empowering candles. I realize this may seem simple compared to the hundreds of books and articles out there on the topic- but I assure you that in the ways of energy and Spirit, simple is usually more powerful!

• Spend as much time as you need ensuring your goal is clear. Spend time before the working visualizing the goal and ’seeing’ yourself, in fullness, with it part of your life. Generate magical energy by getting excited on every level as you experience your manifestation in your mind’s eye.
• Holding the candle in both hands, begin attuning your consciousness to the power of the elements contained within it. Honor the power you hold, and with your intention call forth all other pure and powerful elements throughout the universe and join them to your candle.
• This is a great time to insert a prayer or petition, asking that your candle be purified and empowered by the Divine for your purpose. You may wish to make a scratch or mark in the candle once this is done to ‘mark’ it as blessed.
• Now, using the energy flow through your hands (which are mirrors of the heart chakras), think of your goal while imagining it flowing down your arms in the form of energy, symbols, feelings, colors, etc. The energy which carries your intention then passes your palms and enters the candle.
• Continue flowing your intention with energy into the candle. With your mind’s eye, see the candle begin to glow and pulsate with the power of your goal. Do this until you feel intuitively that the intention has ‘taken’.
• Once done, you may wish to pray once again over the candle to ask for further blessing and sealing of the work. You can also make another scratch in the candle to mark it as charged.

Your candle is now a highly-charged piece of spiritual magic. Place it in a special place where it can burn safely and still be seen by you throughout the day. Light your candle with prayerful intent and a sense of great gratitude.

Candles of this nature are best burned until they go out naturally. Lighting and dousing them tends to disperse the energy you implanted within them.

The Hidden Workings

As your candle burns, it is literally transforming the energy of your goal into the earth of its manifestation. Through your visualization and charging, each element in the candle is activated to bring the goal closer and closer to actualization- all for you! As the candle burns further and further down, it releases more and more of your manifest energy into the universe. All elements come into harmony to make your dreams come true!

Feel free to use this method to bring healing, abundance, clarity, empowerment, joy, love, etc… in this universe- the only limit is limitless!

With warm blessings of illumination and light…

Josh Williams

Intention, Action & Dedication For Big Spiritual Growth

The following text has been transcribed from my personal book of truth and was originally written on December 28, 2008

Intention is the internal/subtle process of manifesting potential. Action is the external/actualized process of manifesting potential. One without the other is both useless as it will not create change, and spiritually regressive as it is not using the fullness of personal power.

To enact spiritual practices such as ritual, prayer, personal healing, reflection, study, etc. by following prescribed actions alone is shallow and spiritually offensive. To contemplate spiritual practices, obsess, over-plan, etc. without actually manifesting them in the realm of action is energetically draining and leads to spiritual dead-ends.

Action and intention, Spirit and matter, thoughts and deeds, Soul and field; all must express fully in a balanced way for true spiritual magic to happen- whether for personal growth, Divine connection, manifesting abundance or any other reason.

Realizations and personal prophecy are received internally on the same level where intentions are made within the individual. Intention to embody and enflesh a revelation is the natural and proper step to follow a realization.

Dedication is the process of enlivening a spiritual practice and holding to it- taking  shelter of it fully until the desired or needed goals manifest in fullness. Dedication to the goal not only trains, strengthens, and empowers the self- ir also creates beacons of power that can quickly attract needed help in many forms.

Dedication is faith, love, and respect for what is being expressed- and doing it internally with intention and externally with clear action to the very best of your abilities will always prodice great results!

Following times, places, formats, etc. in your spiritual work as they serve your journey- and sticking to them even when doing so is most difficult offers a limitless spiritual blessing in and of itself.

Prayer, meditation, making offerings, study, rituals, celebration, etc. that follow a dedicated personal format are a sacrifice to the Divine par excellence and will quickly lead to great spiritual advancement!

Peace & Blessings on the path of clear intent, clear action, and heart-centered dedication…

Josh Williams

Creating Relationship Progress With Psychic Visualization

Every relationship has its challenges. In even the most perfect loving relationships we can experience issues with communication, physical incompatibility, misunderstands and difference of agenda. Part of the power of loving relationships is getting through the rough spots and coming out closer, happier and more aware. In this article, I’d like to share with you some simple yet powerful techniques you can use to help overcome relationship obstacles, intensify emotional & spiritual connection to your partner and open up heart-centers for progressive, healing & joyful love!

North Pole, South Pole

I like to think of relationships in terms of polarity. It only makes sense that spiritually we should attract the mate who will challenge our limitations and help strengthen our weaknesses (and we do the same for them). Because of this, each partner is like one of the Earth’s poles. The Earth is one unified and beautiful whole- but there are two sides to every story. In every relationship of any nature, two people are coming together with a whole set of different tools, experiences and desires to create a new ’spirit between’. The old adage ‘opposites attract’ probably sums this up best. We will, of course, have many thing sin common with our loved one- but its the differences that really count! The things we lack can be made up for by their strengths, and the things they lack can be made up for with ours. Just like the Earth, two poles of opposing natures create just the right magnetic power to make the whole thing move beautifully!

Relationship ‘tension’ is absolutely necessary to make magic happen. We need to light to define the dark. Tension within a relationship can be positive or negative depending on how it’s being used- and it’s really our job to make sure it stays in check. Positive tension inspired us to grow, learn more, be more compassionate and learn new ways of communication and expression. Positive expression is like the dense soil which the sprouting seed pushes through to become a stronger plant. Negative tension are essentially the same things- but instead of being corrected or viewed for what they are, they become sources of distance, argument, resentment and disconnection.

There are many ways to deal with the countless faces of negative tension as it arises, but in this article I’d like to focus on those solutions which operate from a more spiritual platform. The beauty of healing and empowering a relationship through spiritual medium is that as we bless and manifest our needs and wants into the relationship- we also heal and clarify ourselves. It’s a two-for-one that just might be the secret to a progressive and loving relationship!

The Tools

Creative visualization is the process of ‘making up’ scenarios within the visual cortex in the brain in a way that you can ’see’ within. Through creative visualization, we are giving form and vibrational mass to the desires we have. Because thoughts have energy, the things we think about in this way create waves of vibration all around us. Creative visualization is most powerful because it is intentional, directed, willful thinking where only what is wanted can be called forth. If we relied only on the background running of endless thoughts for this work, we’d usually only manifest negative stuff since that’s what we tend to get hung up on the most. Creative visualization is a break from the often unrestrained negative journeys of the ego where the blissful world we choose to live in can be defined, called forth, empowered and manifested!

The process we will be working with also includes our own psychic power. This is because as we visualize and connect on the spiritual level via the medium of internal visualization, we will also project those visualizations into reality by making them a reality. This process of actualizing visualization with the intention of seeing it happen in ‘real life’ engaged our innate psychic faculties as the speakers which loudly project the new song we want to hear to the entire cosmos.

As with all practices involving meditation, prayer and sacred energy…

• Ensure you will have as much time as you think you’ll need without interruption. Turn the phone off and lock the door- you deserve sanctuary!
• Items of personal significance like candles, incense, music, ritual clothing, etc. can be used at your discretion.
• Feel free to include opening and/or closing prayers in your workings.
• Dress comfortably, and remember that meditative work often changes the body temperature- so have a blanket nearby in case you get cold.
• You may wish to take a cleansing bath before your session to increase personal clarity and power. Click here to learn simple ways to have a spiritual bath.
• Having a photograph or personal item of your beloved with you during this work can be very empowering and can help the mind focus on the intention.
• You may also want to explore special scents, colors, patrons, etc. which resonate to your needs and desires and bring them into your working.
• As always- do what feels right for you, because that is what’s right for you!

The Working

Arrange your space in a way which feels good for you as described above.

For this practice, we will be making a conscious connection to our beloved- creating an intentional psychic link so that what we move about we bring about.

This can be done simply by closing your eyes, getting relaxed and calling them forth. Use your inner-vision to see them as clearly as you can. You may wish to envision them with you right here, right now, or you may wish the visualize your surroundings as somewhere special to you both. Call them forth internally by name, and see them coming into your visualization. Ask them to become comfortable, relaxed and open. Affirm the safety and love which surrounds you both in this space. Try to feel, see, and sense your beloved with you as strongly as you can. Thank them for coming.

Now that the connection has been established…

Begin by stating several things you are grateful for about your beloved. Thank them for anything you can think of, praise them for their positive qualities and love them for who they are. This process generates a HUGE field of loving energy and will also help each of you open up, receive, heal and become empowered by the working.

At this point, a deep psychic connection has been created, and the field between and around each of you has been charged with love, power and spiritual magnetism. In this space, what you bring forth to your beloved is real- and will be received by them!

You are now in a highly supportive space to begin talking, sharing images, praying, or just being. You are free to express you desires, define solutions, open up to receive healing, etc. Allow yourself to be guided to do what’s right for both of you in this space.

You can speak and listen here. Your partner will respond to questions you ask. Allow them to do so and do not judge the response. You may receive imagery, sensations or sounds which don’t make sense- you can either ask to see in another way, or remember them and think on them later.

Speak complete truth here and nothing less. Use your visualized hands to connect your heart center to theirs. Give them meaningful gifts you have visualized and see them receive with love. Openly receive any gifts your beloved manifests for you.

Allow Spirit time in this practice to show you both what can be done to heal. Open up to receive guidance about the relationship through psychic imagery and sensation. Ask Spirit to shower each of you individually AND together as a couple with blessings of love, health, abundance and joy. See and feel the blessings coming forth over you and receive it gratefully.

You are in a timeless space here- so spend exactly as much time as you need to, then be done. Thank your partner once again and release them. perceive them leaving in love and joy. Once they are gone, say any additional prayers you choose for protection, blessings, etc. Gently begin bringing yourself back to waking consciousness by wiggling toes and fingers, then arms and legs, then opening the eyes. Stay where you are for a few minutes to think about your experience, be grateful for it and ground out in your new reality!

Most people will see the effects of this work very quickly. If you are completely disconnected from your beloved, or if there are serious negative tensions taking place- give it time to unfold and do a short session daily. Believe that you deserve the best, your partner deserves the best, and the best is right here for you if you choose to receive it!

With blessings of peace & progress on the heart-centered path…

Josh Williams

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Personal Attunement To Illumination

It seems that the term ‘illumination’ has started to become a new-age meme rivaling that of ‘enlightenment.

But what is illumination, and what can we do as individuals to bring ourselves closer to living it?

In this article, I’d like to explore some basic principles of illumination with you as I have experienced them,

and introduce you to a simple meditation technique that will help align your total being to the lights of lights!

The Light That Dims All Other Lights

In many mystic circles, all that exists is the light. The light is the very essence of Divinity which pervades and supports all that is. Light in this context should not be understood  as actual light as we know it- but rather a spiritual illumination which can only be described partially by the term ‘light’. For many of us who have had profound experiences in momentary or extended elevated spiritual awareness, we often have a common theme among us of being wrapped in light that is like ten million suns. This light, as I have received it, is the very effulgence of the Divine- It’s presence in all things and It’s power of pervasiveness in all ways.

Mystics of old also referred to this light, especially in Qabala, as the ‘dazzling darkness’. This is a wonderful expression of the light because it forces us not to get hung up on the idea of actual light, but rather an infinite and all-powerful light which is both dark and illuminated simultaneously.

Light is surely the first step of energy actualization- and for this reason, mystics from across time and the globe have used it as a metaphor for Divine presence and power.

The Way Of Illumination

Illumination, much like the popular conception of enlightenment, is simply that. It is the process of tapping the Divine presence within and without and expressing it in fullness. Illumination doesn’t fundamentally change who we are- because it is always within us- rather it changes how we are. As we link ourselves to the Divine presence in such a powerful way as to call it illumination, we begin to see, hear, feel, touch, taste and live only that which is on the Divine platform. We still get hungry, cold and even afraid at times- but the way in which those things effect us is based on the spiritual paradigm instead of solely on the material.

Illumination is not a process of becoming the Divine- it is rather a process of walking in complete harmony with It and raising ourselves up to a higher state of spiritual consciousness. With illumination- we are completely plugged in to the limitless Divine and thus have a seemingly magical access to the full spectrum of Divine blessings and given powers without obstruction.

I also believe that like our personality-selves, illumination will have unique expressions within each of us. While we will still be inhabiting this mortal body with all of it’s strengths and weaknesses, and while we’ll still be under the laws of the universe- we begin to realize and enflesh deeper levels of ourselves, bigger gifts and a lot more connection to Source. This process slowly and gently raises us up to a vibration of pure limitless potential tailor-made for the unique and special person we are and gifts we have.

Contemplating The Light

As we walk our paths, one of the most powerful things we can believe and contemplate is that there is always the possibility and potential for more. More blessings, more abundance, more love, more wisdom, etc.  If we get trapped into the belief that what we have is the very best of what can be had- we will really just be putting glue on the switch so that the light can’t be turned on. We truly exist in a world of infinite possibility- and to train our body, emotions and mind to step out of the limitation box and into the infinite creates magic in and of itself. This process of contemplating the light is really about catching ourselves thinking and being from a state of lack and limit. When we catch ourselves- we have to pause and replace that thought with a deep and powerful contemplation on the limitless and the truth of available blessings- and cultivate deep conviction in it!

Attuning Yourself To Illumination

You can perform this simple visualization meditation whenever you like to help remind, empower and attune you to the higher path of being. It is important with this meditation, as will all visualization meditations, that you have a solid association between the imagery of light and the many spiritual ideals and powers is represents so that the practice takes root firmly in your total being.

Work this meditation anywhere and anytime you feel comfortable. Try to remove any chances of being disturbed- this is your sacred personal time and the more you honor it as such- the more you’ll get out of it!

Because of the deeply spiritual nature of this practice, you may want to consider performing it at the same time of day in the same place. This will build up a spiritual charge and also create connections to ascended spiritual teachers who will eventually be present to help your work.

Like most profound spiritual practices- the more simple something is the more power it can hold. Practices replete with confusing liturgies and ritual movement tend to disperse energy in remembering and acting out all of those details. A simple, humble practice is like an empty vase waiting to be filled up with the true power. Don’t let the simplicity of powerful spiritual practices trick you into thinking they are not on the cosmic plane!

• Comfort yourself in the space and time you choose. You may wish to add music, incense, candles, opening/closing prayers, etc. Try your best to truly own this practice and let it unfold for you as an individual to become your own personal rite. What I present is always just a simple template- that is so there is room for you to make it your own, and make it something sacred for who and how you are right now.
• Close your eyes and work through relaxing the entire physical body one section at a time. Use the out breath to release tension and the in breath to draw in clean, empowered life energy.
• Instruct your mind and emotions to be still, and to relax into the moment. Visualization is a phenomenal technique because it allows us to engage our minds and emotions in the practice so that they don’t wander off too much.
• Once you feel stable, centered and calm…
• Connect to the eternal light. Contemplate it’s meanings and mysteries. Think of what it symbolizes and how it relates to Source and to you as an individual. Begin to feel the hidden light all around you coming forth. Slowly begin to perceive and feel it exposing itself- not from one place, but from all places!
• Really focus on the light until you can perceive that you, the room you are in, the neighborhood, city, state, country, world, universe, etc. is surrounded and saturated in light. Allow everything to keep it’s familiar shape and feel- but wash it in the perception of seeing the hidden presence of Source as light.
• Once you feel you are swimming in the abyss of light consciousness…
• Be. This is the part that becomes tricky as the mind and emotions will want to wander. Gently bring them back over and over as long as you can maintain the awareness of the light. Simply be in it- feel it, experience it, allow it to speak, heal, bless. Simply enjoy existing for a time in this higher state of being.
• You’ll know when it’s time to be done. At that point, slowly and gently see the light fading back into it’s hiding space. This way, when you come out of meditation and enter your waking life- you’ll know a secret- the light is always there and always available to you now that you are connected to it!

You may want to run this meditation daily for nine days, then break for one to allow your lower sense the opportunity to perceive it in regular waking life.

This attunement will not likely bring you the fullness of illumination- and that’s a good thing! It will, rather, gently initiate and train you into the ways of higher being and soon your entire life will start increasing in spiritual power and awareness. This meditation is one step of the process that I find very valuable, and think you will as well!

With blessings of the dazzling dark light…

Josh Williams

Josh’s ‘Energy Magic’ Style Explored

Most of us are familiar with the idea of Magic. Using spiritual and/or ritual techniques to increase the potential of manifesting our will in reality. Magic, by common understanding and practice, uses ritual implements like candles, herbs, symbols, actions and words of power to effect change in consensus reality. These actions can be used to create transformation, change, bring healing, remove negativity, attract desired goals and repel undesired manifestations. Most every culture in the world has some form of folk, mystic or ritual magic they use, and in many circles, ancient styles are being brought back via re-constructionist spiritual movements (Wicca, East Anglian, Enochian, Ceremonial, Neo-Shamanism, etc.). As an answer to receiving many questions from clients and blog readers about how my style of Energy Magic differs and resonates with the traditional notion of magic and the how’s and why’s of its effectiveness, I’d like to share this article with you.

Energy Magic

As mentioned above, magic is the process of increasing the power of manifestation of ones personal will using ritual or active principles. Magic, like prayer, works with subtle energies; calling them forth and directing them to help effect a person or situation. With common magic, ritual items like candles, herbs, string, mirrors, etc. are used as physical symbols for the underlying energy they represent. The art of ‘contagion magic’ posits that changes or direction of empowered items on one level will affect who or what they represent on the same level. This is why the use of poppits, dolls and personal effects are so powerful- by doing to one thing, a similar change is created in the source or resonance of that thing.

Buzzing behind ritual magic is an infinite spectrum of energy patterns and vibrations. In its essence, energy, the stuff of life, is neutral. It emanates from Source as the all-pervading presence of power. Like water, energy takes on the attributes of that which holds it. If you place water in a green glass, the water takes on the qualities of green. Similarly, if you call forth energy into an empowered and intentional form, it will begin resonating at that level and ‘become’ a powerhouse of that ideal if done properly.

In my style of Energy Magic, I work backwards from traditional/common magic. I go directly to Source and follow this basic guideline:

• Call forth, from Source, the needed resonances, vibratory patterns and energy workings needed by the individual(s) I am serving.
• Receive the answers in the form of concrete symbolism (i.e. cleansing, rose energy, grounding, fertility, etc.) These symbols come to me in a language that is all my own- and in turn would come to another person in their own internal language.
• Once I receive the guidance of how to help, I begin creating vibrational and energetic templates in spiritual space. This process involves entering a deep but controlled trance state.
• Once the templates, vibratory forces and energetic forms are created, I meet with the person(s) I am serving on an energetic ‘time and space irrelevant’ level. At this point, a very gentle merging of the forms to the individual takes place. Where situations occur that I am working with two individuals (typically in love and romance workings), similar work takes place with a focus on empowering the spirit between them and charging it with the healing and templates.
• This work is checked, usually daily or several times a day, until I perceive it has set and is now owned by the person.

In summary, and to help clarify some of the more abstract spiritual aspects of this work…

What you desire is created in the form of energy vibration on a superior spiritual level of existence. It is then moved into our plane of existence, linked or bound to you, and allowed to unfold. As this process happens, the energy placed within you wants to call resonant energy to it, and at the same time it works to shake loose any beliefs, emotions, feelings or blockages that are opposed to it. The whole process gently leads you to openly receiving the blessings that are already there, helps to remove obstacles and blockages, helps you resonate with the goals you desire to manifest, and helps create overall balance and cosmic flow.

Where one person may light candles of specific colors at certain times of the day, I will go to the spiritual source of what empowers the color, the flame and the spoken words and channel that directly into the paradigm of the person I am serving. They are both roads leading to the same end, though I believe working strictly with energy tends to create quicker change and requires less time for me to do the working. In many cases, I can do a 10-20 minute working for a client right after speaking with them so that before my energy even leaves their field, the next wave of magic is coming in.

The Secret Of Energy Magic

The secret of energy magic is love. That is to say, anything we want is already given to us. The process of manifesting our will really relies simply on attuning to that will and removing any internal or external blockages that prevent it from manifesting naturally. In most cases of a clearly and heart-centered operating person, the action they wish to manifest is desired by them because it is right for them. The reason for it not showing up is not a case of them not deserving it, or needing to manipulate to get it- it’s a case of them carrying internal blockages in the form of belief, history, karma, fear, toxicity, external influence, spiritual poisoning, etc. that prevents it from manifesting in a spontaneous and natural way.

The goal of the work I do is simply to remove blockages, attune the person I am serving to the highest goal, and open them up to receive the full power of the blessing-cosmos all around them. You can see how my work, although active in practice, is passive in effect. I don’t do any work without Source granting permission and know from a far distance if the request given to me is in accord with Divine law or not.

Creating more intentional magic in your life is simply a matter of clearly identifying what you want, then meditating on that desire to see what comes up within you that ‘ doesn’t believe in the goal or fears it. Then, one by one those issues are worked out until you are a vessel meant to hold your desire.

You truly can have whatever you desire- as long as it is the whole of you that desires it, and not just one part of you!

The Process

For me, energy magic, energy healing and energy workings are not something to be taken lightly. I am often asked why I do not charge my clients for these services, and the answer is simple. I am not the creator of the energy, the bestower of blessings or the maestro of the cosmos. I am simply a channel with intent, and nothing more. Charging for that work would be like me charging for the work another man does. It makes no sense. In the history of people who walk the path I do, we have always been called forth to be a present, available and active participant in the lives of those who receive our services. I wish only to maintain that current and do whatever I can to help create a more joyous, peaceful and balanced life for all so that we can toss off the fetters and focus on growth and spiritual progress.

I should note that I do require a live session for both connection and understanding of the works’ goal before I do the work. There is no expectation of call length or money spent in this regard, although a sufficient length of time to cover all topics and help compensate me for my time, energy and presence is always greatly appreciated.

How Can Energy Magic Work For You?

The best way to know is always to ask! Your session with me provides you with a detailed, quick and accurate connection to psychic and spiritual guidance- and the effectiveness and potential of energy magic for your situation can also be discussed. Some situations require only a blessing and some personal work on your end. Others require only some energy work on my end. Some require a bit of both in varying degrees. If you are willing, ready and excited to play an active and accountable role in the manifestation of your goals and the realization of total health, joy and spiritual balance- then we will work great together as a team!

I look forward to serving you and your unique life journey with the limitless tools of Source and Heart…

Josh Williams

Connect with me for a live, affordable session right from the comfort of your own space!

Special Autumn 2009 rates are being offered right now!

Feng-Shui The Fun Way! Personal Intuitive Design For Health, Abundance & Joy

Most of us are aware of how our environment effects our moods. The rise in popularity of spirit-based design arts like Feng-Shui and Vaashtu have really got people thinking more about the power of space and the magic of placement. In this article, I’d like to explore some ideas and suggestions with you that will help you call forth the natural sense of balance and flow within you and use it to empower the space around you!

Feng-Shui & Vaashtu

Feng-Shui is a sacred Taoist (Chinese) method of working with the natural elements of a space to create balance and harmony. Feng-Shui translates to ‘wind-water’ and calls forth the idea of bringing nature into our space and doing so in a way that creates wind-and-water-like balance. Through Feng-Shui, the desired elements of a space (bed, desk, chair, table, etc.) are viewed from an elemental perspective and placed in direction-based parts of the space and in specific groupings that create a natural resonance between those elements. In addition, especially in the Black Cat School Style of Feng-Shui, charms like mirrors, chimes, animal figures and words are use to tie a space together spiritually for optimal harmony. Feng-Shui focuses on diagnosing a space to define how it is out of balance and then taking the steps needed to correct or ‘fix’ that imbalance.

Like Feng-Shui, Vaashtu is also a spiritually-based art and science of space. Hailing from ancient Vedic sacred texts (India), Vaashtu uses a map of the ‘world man’ (Visvakarma) to define how a space should be used. The same principles are used in the construction of many Hindu temples. In this system, one of the many Vaashtu Yantras (sacred pattern) are super-imposed over a map of the space. These Yantras include spaces for planets, Deities, the Earth, the primordial man, colors, etc. and the space is then arranged so that the right elements in the space correspond to the right areas of the Yantra. Also in Vaashtu is the practice of installing heavenly/planetary Personalities in the form of the Navagraha Deities into the space to ensure it’s harmony and protection.

These are both fascinating areas of study that helped me personally delve into the power of external energy flow and geomancy. If you are interested in the subject, I highly recommend you check out some books and websites to learn more! In this article, we’ll be focusing less on established schools of spiritual design and more on tapping our own innate ability to sense and work with energy flow in our space. Home or office- intuitive design can truly bring magic all around you!

Intuitive Design

I’ve always believed that the space we keep is a reflection of our hearts. The home or office we work in is, in its own way, an intuitive manifestation of where we are and how we are at the time we design and ‘own’ that space. Where we choose to put furniture, what colors we pick and what other design elements seem right reflect what’s relevant in our minds and hearts. Several months or years down the road- we may decide that this isn’t right anymore and switch everything around. Space, like life, should be dynamic and set up in a way that allows us to make changes to it as we make changes within ourselves.

With intuitive design, we are simply doing what feels right for our space while being more mindful of the choices we make- and adding elements that may not seem natural right now to call forth their natural vibrations which may fulfill needs we have in general. In this process, we are choosing to design a space just like we normally would- but instead of just labeling design elements as ‘love it’ or ‘hate it’, we are taking time to meditate on WHY we may be so attracted to one thing and less to another. Intuitive design requires us to explore the meanings of colors, symbols, animals, materials, directions, etc. from many cultures and belief systems to try and understand holistically why we like what we do so that we can fully own that liking. In addition, it requires us to identify lack and desire in our life so that we can in turn identify symbolism to bring into the space that will resonate with filling that lack or manifesting that desire.

The internet may be your very best resource in this work- tons of information is out there for free about color meaning, symbolism, directions, placement, plant meanings, animal totem symbolism, stones, etc. Use whatever resources you have to both honor your intuitive creativity and identify what you can bring into your space to create perfection.

What Feels Right Probably Is Right

As human beings, we are acutely aware of energy flow in and around us- although it can e easy to clock out the small voice that tells us what all of that means. In designing and owning space, it’s important to follow your intuition- especially in how furniture of mass is placed and what color schemes you choose. Let go of what’s popular and instead choose to work with what’s potent- for you as an individual. Let your space be a reflection of you so that when you are in it- you are getting closer to your own power without doing anything!

Energy and vibration needs to be able to flow through a space freely, and this is why working with big furniture should be done with intention and mindfulness. Make sure the space feels open, flowing and easy to be in. Try to avoid letting furniture or other design elements ‘block’ energy from flowing through a room. Once you’ve come up with a design plan- think of it in terms of how easily it would be for a breeze or energy form to move through and around the room. Look at windows and doors as portals for fresh energy and make sure they stay open and inviting. Follow your own intuition in creating a space that houses your own energy field and that of the space you are in with harmony and relaxation.

Making Magic With Design

If there’s a specific energy you’d like to foster in your space- like abundance for your office, love in the bedroom, relaxation in the living room, etc.- then you’re in luck! The natural world around is buzzes with symbols, colors, stones, etc. that all act to call forth an energy flow and help you get in tune with it for your own life.

Bring this magic into your space by first defining what it is you want. Then, research symbolism, color, gemstones, materials, directions, etc. from cultures or systems you feel comfortable with (Feng-Shui, Vaashtu, Wicca, New Age Healing, etc.) and bring them into your space in a creative way. You may wish to use certain healing colors in tapestries, upholstery or paintings. You could place your cash register or desk in the direction of wealth. You might also consider growing house plants that have symbolism of healing, prosperity, love, etc. (for more on the healing power of house plants, check out my article HERE).

Feel free to use whatever symbolism means something to you- and recognize the magic it will create! If you add a design element with intention, you’ll create a conscious and subconscious link that will be activated and empowered every time you perceive the object! In no time at all you’ll start walking in line with the symbol and manifesting it’s meaning for real in your life!

Healing Sick Space

Just as we can call forth things we want into our space, we can also remove things from our lives we don’t want that may hold root in our space. If you struggle with recurring health problems, fighting, bad communication with lovers, infertility, etc. you may want to try and identify how these things are reflected in your sacred space.

Remember that the space is a reflection of the heart- and it’s a two-way street!

Is the space dirty and cluttered, creating mis-communication and a sense of chaos in the heart? Are the houseplants wilted and sunlight being blocked created a sense of ill health? Are the colors lacking in diversity or is the furniture creating boredom or depression?

You can also use your sacred space (home or office) for moving meditations in your life. If you feel stuck- clean and meditate! If you feel trapped- re-arrange some furniture and open up the space while you meditate. If you feel bored or depressed- add some color and fun to your space while you meditate! These items can be inexpensive and easy to find in the form of fabric pieces, home made art works, second-hand shops, etc. Get creative and get the energy moving toward a more magical life through sacred space!

Look at the space you live or work in and see how it might be reinforcing negative things going on within you… then get inspired, creative and excited to fix it! As you to do your space you do to yourself- that can be your mantra as you work through cleaning, cleansing, arranging and designing!

More on spiritual cleansing and protection of your space can be found in my article posted HERE, and a clean slate is always a great way to start!

With blessings of abundance, health and joy in your sacred space…

Josh Williams

www.JoshWilliamsOnline.com

Fall Mind Magic For Letting Go & Getting Grateful

The leaves on the trees are finally changing! This is, for me, one of the most beautiful and magical times of year. A great energy seems to permeate the world in the fall which around us into something new. This is a time when we are reminded that death has aspects of beauty within it- as with the falling of colored leaves, and we are intuitively aware that all things that pass lead to ‘new growth’ in the future. In this article, I’d like to share with you some realizations and simple meditations to tap this wonderful Autumnal energy for change, healing and cleansing in your own life!

It’s Six O’clock, Do You Know Where Your Issues Are?

If we look at the year like a clock, fall would be six p.m. Winter, the midnight of the year brings darkness and cold- leading to the dawn of spring and the noon zenith of summer. At six o’clock fall, the sun is just beginning to set and we are getting ready to start our evening wind-down. This is a great time to think about what we’ve done today (this year, really!) and take stock of all that we’ve learned.

For me, Autumn has always been about the beginning of personal shadow work. Things start to get cold, die off, fall off and frost over- and in the stillness of this magical time, the deeper parts of the self seem to shine forth more clearly than usual. Fall offers us a time to start calming down and spending more time at home. The weather isn’t as friendly as it was, and there seems to be more time for just relaxing and ‘being’. It is at this time that we are called by the natural cycles of the world around us to look within and identify what leaves on our own self-tree need to be released.

Autumn is a time to simply be- allowing the chatter in the heart and the mind to be heard in fullness and truth. Recognize the fears, issues, connections, faults and limitations that you hold on your branches which no longer serve you. Acknowledge how they may have served you, even if you can’t see how right now. Then, simply resolve to cut them off and let them fall to the earth. As leaves fall to the ground in fall, they decompose and become nutrition for next years growth. Similarly, the energy of the issues you let go of now will eventually return to you after a natural state of purification, and become great blessings and boons for your personal growth to come!

A Meditation On Falling Leaves

Because all life is connected, the natural world around us carries a specific blessing and resonance that mirrors smaller cycles happening deep within us. Knowing that we can harmonize with this flow of natural energy and use it for our own personal healing connects us with magic on a truly cosmic platform!

In the following meditation, we will be working with a list (mental or actually written out) of ideas, imbalances, limitations, fears, etc. that we are ready to release. This meditation must be performed outside, and should be done in the warmest part of the day if possible. You may want to dress in Autumn colors to help attune yourself to the energy in the world, or simply sit amongst fallen leaves enjoying the color, scent, and feeling of the Fall energy.

Choose a place to sit that will position you in front of a large, autumn-leaf filled tree. Make sure there are already leaves on the ground around the base of the tree so that you know it is in the process of shedding them. Say a prayer if you choose to help empower the meditation, and thank the tree for acting as a helped to you in this working in whatever way feels right for you.

Close your eyes for a time and simply connect to the meaning of this time of year. See if you have any memories that resonate to this season. Connect as deeply as you can to the available power moving all around you- and know that it is here to help you if you choose to accept it.

Go over your list of ‘leaves’ in your mind or on your paper. Spend a few moments honoring and connecting to each one. Once you feel that everything you want to release is presented….

• Call up one issue at a time in your mind and in your heart. Allow yourself to fully embrace it and be present with all that it is for you
• Now, using the tree as your helper, as the Universe to help you release this issue in a tangible way- the falling of a leaf
• Move your attention to the whole of the tree while still holding your withering issue in mind. Soon, you’ll see a leaf fall that catches your attention
• Before the leaf hits the ground, call it by the name of the issue you wish to let go of
• See the leaf hit the ground and be grounded, neutralized and embraced by the loving protection of the Earth Mother
• If you need this issue to fall through a few more leaves- follow your intuition and do it until it feels complete!
• Spend a few moments after each issue sensing its release and feeling lightness and gratitude for it’s removal

This meditation is best performed up to the last day of October.

You may wish to end this meditation by going back in the house for a cleansing bath and some warm herbal tea!

I hope that this exploration of Autumnal energy and Fall blessings helps you let go of the leaves of your past and begin creating energy for the blossoms of your future!

Peace & Blessings,

Josh Williams

www.JoshWilliamsOnline.com

Eating Your Way To Joy!

Within our brains exists a complex network of transmitters, chemicals, receptors and chemical balance. Our brains and our bodies rely on the food we eat to ensure that it has all the right tools to get the job done. ‘Comfort Food’ takes on a whole new meaning when we explore how the foods we eat can change our mood- and in today’s article I’d like to explore with you some foods that are sure to add flavor to the path of creating joy and health in your life!

To ensure your total health, do not start a diet without first consulting your medical doctor.

You Feel The Way You Eat!

Food is the way in which needed chemicals enter into our bodies for use. Without a diet that covers the array of important chemicals we need- our bodies would experience great stress and illness. An example of this is with essential amino acids- these are extremely important chemicals used in the body that must be taken in through food, that is, our body cannot produce them on its own.

When we choose a diet of heavy, processed, and refined foods- we can expect to feel the same way. Conversely, when our diet is light, fresh, seasonal, local and in harmony with our unique needs- we can expect to feel those benefits in our day-to-day.

What we eat directly influences how we fell- not just physically, but emotionally, mentally and even spiritually. There is a good reason why many advanced spiritual seekers choose a diet low in meat and high in raw greens! These foods provide an in-tact and un-tampered connection to raw living energy that acts to cleanse, empower and purify the body on all levels.

The Spirit Of The Munchies

In many cases, when we feel intense cravings or want to connect with comfort food- it’s usually not the most healthy for us. Foods high in sugar, caffeine, fat and simple carbohydrates tend to be the norm for comfort food and munchie cravings. The reason? These foods provide a super quick boost of energy, rush of chemicals through the brain’s pleasure centers and gratify many of the external sense. The problem is that these foods act like a credit card with a wicked interest rate- they take from your store of nutrients and in a short time leave you in major debt. This is one reason why after a productive morning fueled by coffee and pastries, we crash in the afternoon and feel like we could sleep for two days straight.

The munchies are really a big red warning light from the body telling you that some nutrients and chemicals need to be restored. When your instinct is to reach for a chocolate bar or a sugary soda, it’s probably more true that your body needs some complex carbs, good protein and a few pleasure-center activating chemicals as well (such as the amino acids L-Tryptophan or L-Thianine which offer a calming, relaxed feeling with an overall sense of feeling good).

Making the right choices in the foods we eat ensures that our body has everything it needs to give us physical as well as emotional health.

Fighting The Blues With Food

Giving your body great foods when you’re feeling down is a sure-fire way to get the chemicals moving and put a smile on your face!

Some foods I like working with to increase joy and fight of the blues are…

Dark Organic Chocolate covered almonds

Almonds help increase dopamine levels and chocolate stimulates the release of serotonin. They work great together!

Whole Wheat Bagels

Give you complex carbs that help raise serotonin levels

Avocados

Increase dopamine levels and the good fats bring an increase of the feel-good chemical endorphin!

Oatmeal (real, not quick oats)

Increases serotonin just like the bagels. Also helps with stress and anxiety!

In addition, try eating Mung beans, asparagus, sunflower seeds, cottage cheese, pineapple, tofu, spinach and bananas for all the above benefits plus diversity and excitement in your diet!

As a simple guide to help you discover foods that are good for you, help you feel good and taste great to you…

Complex Carbohydrates like whole grains, brown rice, fruit, potatoes and high fiber cereals. These foods raise the levels of serotonin in the brain giving you a calm and relaxed feeling.

Good Vegetable Fats like olive oil, almonds, avocados and walnuts. Vegetable fats increase the level of happy-chemicals called endorphins.

Proteins help stimulate the production of dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine bringing a sense of joy, a change in paradigm and a general feeling of wellness!

As with all foods- try your best to eat organic, in season and local foods to keep your body in tune with the land you live in. Also, moderation in all things is important in any diet. Do your best to explore new foods and work with a diverse menu- this in and of itself can be a source of inexpensive and effective excitement and enjoyment right at home!

You may also want to explore more on subject like raw diets, vegetarian and vegan diets, organic foods, urban farming and local produce to bring your eating experience full-circle and harmonize it with body, mind and spirit!

I hope this information helps you connect to the healing power of everyday foods- and brings joy to your taste buds and to your heart!

Peace & Blessings…

Josh Williams

www.JoshWilliamsOnline.com