Friday, April 30, 2010

Sophia Diaz--interview

I recently listened to an interview of Sophia Diaz on the following site:

http://womenontheedgeofevolution.com/access/access.php

Sophia is a long time yoga teacher, a healer of women's wounds through energy work, and a very wise woman who lives up to her name. Her approach is energy based, and she even offers some exercises in her interview. I recommend her highly.

To find the audio of the interview, go to the above site and scroll down until you come to her name. Following the instructions at the beginning of the page, you should then be able to listen to this fascinating exchange.

Sophia has a website at: http://www.sofiayoga.com/

I was delighted to find someone on the "Women on the Edge of Evolution" who was aware of the importance of energetic transformation as a way of including the body in the current spiritual shift into higher levels of awareness.

Here is a fuller biography:

iaz is a hatha yoga master, a lineage holder in the Balasaraswati lineage of the South Indian temple arts and a recipient of numerous meditation empowerments in both Tibetan and Shakta Tantric traditions . She turns the body wisdom practices she is empowered in into accessible teachings and practices for the modern western mind. Being an inspired woman practitioner, the rigors of her practice have resulted in great clarity and expertise in the domain of Feminine Spiritual practice, which she has been generously teaching for 27 years.She is a core founder and faculty of iEvolve: Global Practice Community and a Fellow of the Integral Life Spiritual Center.

# posted by Dorothy : 4/30/2010 03:32:00 PM

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Becoming Butterflies (from Adyashanti)

IMAGINAL CELLS AND THE BODY POLITIC A Story for Our Times When a caterpillar nears its transformation time, it begins to eat ravenously, consuming everything in sight. (It is interesting to note that individuals are often called “consumers” and one of the largest manufacturers of heavy construction machinery is called “Caterpillar,” Inc.) The caterpillar body then becomes heavy, outgrowing its own skin many times, until it is too bloated to move. Attaching to a branch (upside down, we might add, where everything is turned on its head) it forms a chrysalis—an enclosing shell that limits the caterpillar’s freedom for the duration of the transformation. Within the chrysalis a miracle occurs. Tiny cells, that biologists actually call “imaginal cells,” begin to appear. These cells are wholly different from caterpillar cells, carrying different information, vibrating to a different frequency–the frequency of the emerging butterfly. At first, the caterpillar’s immune system perceives these new cells as enemies, and attacks them, much as new ideas in science, medicine, politics, and social behavior are viciously denounced by the powers now considered mainstream. But the imaginal cells are not deterred. They continue to appear, in even greater numbers, recognizing each other, bonding together, until the new cells are numerous enough to organize into clumps. When enough cells have formed to make structures along the new organizational lines, the caterpillar’s immune system is overwhelmed. The caterpillar body then become a nutritious soup for the growth of the butterfly. When the butterfly is ready to hatch, the chrysalis becomes transparent (much as the Internet is making many hidden actions transparent). The need for restriction has been outgrown. Yet the struggle toward freedom has an organic timing. Were the chrysalis opened too soon, the butterfly would die. As the butterfly emerges, it opens its “right wing” and its “left wing,” and then flies away to dance among the flowers. The awakening of the global heart results from transforming the body politic from the unconscious, over-consuming bloat of the caterpillar into a creature of exquisite beauty, grace, and freedom. This coming of age process takes us to a new mythic reality, a larger story, ripe with meaning and direction. It takes us from the naïve egocentricity of childhood into a larger reality of interdependent reciprocity. It is not a passage that ends in the gray grimness of adult responsibility, denying the colorful spirituality of childhood innocence. Rather, it is a reclaiming of wholeness that denies little, and embraces all. Catalysts for the Coalescence of Consciousness The awakening of consciousness happens first in individuals. It is a shift from third chakra, ego-based consciousness to fourth chakra, relational consciousness, a shift from I to We. It is a realization that we are in this together, that we are interdependent, integral agents, part of a larger unity that needs each of us as individual agents. This awakening could result from spiritual practices such asyoga or meditation, psychotherapy, workshop experiences, disenchantment from one’s “normal” life, or any manner of doorways through which we awaken from the trance of consumption and exploitation to a higher vision of perpetual reciprocity, compassion, and unity. At first such individuals might feel alone or isolated; they might be misunderstood or even attacked by others for their strange ideas. When these individuals find others of like mind, they are strengthened and reinforced. They feel less alone, more empowered, and inspired. They literally “vibrate” at a higher frequency. They catalyze each other. This is how the imaginal cells come together, organize amongst themselves and become centers of awakening in the new body politic. We call these imaginal cells “co-hearts,” people who are simultaneously called by something in their own hearts to share with others, to serve and to save what they love. Co-hearts can be of any kind: healing co-hearts, artistic co-hearts, democratic co-hearts, yoga co-hearts, gardening co-hearts, parenting co-hearts. They can be lovers or friends, business associates or volunteers in an organization. Co-hearts share a kin-dom – not a kingdom ruled by a king but a kin-dom where everyone is kin. Co-hearts are like the cells, and kin-doms are the organs of the body politic. We recognize that at all levels we are part of a larger whole. Our workshops focus on awakening the imaginal cells, through personal healing and transformation, and teaching spiritual practices. Our Sacred Centers hubs act as kin-doms for the awakening of global heart consciousness, by bringing together the imaginal cells so that they are strengthened and can survive the onslaughts of the collapsing cultural values. They then become like life-boats: islands of sanity, celebration, and joy in the emerging transformation, agents in the dawning age of the heart.

Adyashanti

# posted by Dorothy : 4/29/2010 02:38:00 PM

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

On Pain and Suffering--Charles Sides

The following is an essay from Charles Sides, an excerpt from a letter he originally wrote to a friend. As he says, there are many ways of viewing this issue, but his thoughts offer much material for reflection.

I'll start with your question about the difference between pain and suffering. I wouldn't be surprised that we see it from differing perspectives so I'll be curious to read your comments in a future email.

From my present perspective which comes from my Jewel Tree Meditation, pain is part of the dualistic nature of this three-dimensional planet. Everything is energy and its nature is to flow towards value-fulfillment and well-being, but not from an anthropomorphic entity. Energy moves, space particles combine to manifest forms, and those forms live and grow to fulfill a potential. A dandelion seed finds a crack in a sidewalk, takes root, and becomes, in a sense, the best dandelion it can be.

Recently I read a woman's account of her near-death experience and she returned with a message that there is no purpose other than for her "to be the best me" she could be. When energy flows unimpeded there is what we call pleasure, and when the energy is diverted or blocked we call it pain. Pain, as you wrote, is like an awakening mechanism or a corrective device, maybe something like an automatic course correcter on a plane. I believe we exist simply to see what we can do as a holographic energy form with a self-reflective nature.

Suffering, I believe, is the experience of not understanding this nature of reality. In Buddhism there are three types of suffering: the suffering of suffering; the suffering of impermanence; and the suffering of dependent origination.

The suffering of suffering is an added layer of misery on top of pain. A woman hurts her knee, experiences pain, changes her actions, allows energy to flow in a positive direction again, and continues her life. Suffering, in this case I believe, would be to sit and moan and complain and wonder "why me".

The suffering of impermanence is the inability to understand that everything is a temporary manifestation, an illusion, that will disappear. Life is more like a mirage, a dream from which we awaken. But, that's not to say that this conventional reality does not exist. We are here and like Shylock if you prick someone he or she will bleed. But it's not the be-all and end-all of existence. Again, everything is part of this duality: if we have hot we have cold; if we have up we have down; if we have birth we have death; and if we have pleasure we have pain.

And, finally, there is the suffering of dependent origination which, in my explanation, is what keeps the wheels of karma turning. There are twelve links of dependent origination: ignorance, karmic formations, consciousness, name and form, senses, sense sensations, feeling, clinging, grasping, becoming, and aging and death. They are what bind us to the six desire realms: hell, hungry ghost, animal, human, jealous gods and gods. As long as we cling to a separate self, an isolated independent "I", we turn on this wheel as the mind stream composed of thoughts and emotions "travels" from life to life.

The solution, for me anyway, is to understand Dzogchen which is the same as Krishnamurti's "what is", Ramana Maharshi's "Self", or Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj's "I AM". It's all energy that moves, forms, and returns. We are that energy and we are a part of its evolution.

This is what I practice every morning as one section of the Jewel Tree Meditation. It takes me between a half hour and an hour to go through the stages from Hinayana Buddhism to Dzogchen.

Of course, I confess, this is all held in my head...an abstract approach to the world. It's much easier to philosophize about pain when there is no pain. But I'm hoping that by contemplating on these principles I will be able to use them when the time comes.

So...that's my answer and I'd like to know how you view pain and suffering.

(Charles offers a blog at charlessides.wordpress.com)

# posted by Dorothy : 4/28/2010 12:30:00 PM

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Barbara Marx Hubbard--another free lecture

Barbara Marx Hubbard--another free lecture by internet--you can register and hear the recording .

http://www.thehttp://www.theshiftnetwork.com/course/barbara-marx-hubbard-course-intro

Go to the above site and you can find the link to register for the free lecture. She is one of the pioneers of evolution of consciousness, and this is a wonderful chance to hear her speak, with no charge at all.

Hooray for the internet!

Years ago Eleanor Roosevelt wrote a magazine column called "My Day." So here is mine:

I knew almost as soon as I got up that this would be one of the "it" days, when you don't have to look for the inner energies, because they will find you. So I did "my thing" (standing and circling my body with my hands held a few inches away.) And sure enough, here they came, soft and gentle, like liquid light, here and there, everywhere, with especial sensation in the face and head, plus hands, arms, and elsewhere. As always, I am mesmerized, feel like I am getting a "transmission" from somewhere, wonder if it is a new moon, why they are active now. It started while I was still in the kitchen, and continued even when I moved to the living room. Ahhh--I said. Lovely, I whispered to myself. How nice to still be doing this, after so many days of doing other things, of not doing my practice, of, in fact, being ill because I "overdosed" on some of my herbs.

It was as if my "inner guide" had waited for the right moment, and no viagra was needed (not that it ever would be--this is not a sexual experience, but it does feel good.)

It has rained with snow mixed in for the last two or three days--no going for walks, no trees bursting with light--in fact, many of the blooms had fallen or dulled, as if, well, you had your one day of glory, now spring is gone and you missed most of it.

But, as I started off for my "computer lesson" on my new Mac (Apple provides wonderful instruction for a year if you pay an extra $100 and I did), I decided not to bewail my state, but to feel gratitude for what was given.

The day was beautiful, everything, especially the lawns and the leaves on the trees had that brand new yellow green look that come with the first days of spring. I had a wonderful lesson, learned many new things (feeling as though I have jointed the cognoscenti, the inner circle of experts--not true, but I do feel empowered to make even this progress), ate at one of my favorite restaurants--and voila--surrounding the restaurant were the most beautiful blooming trees (magenta in color) I have ever seen. I had no camera so couldn't photograph them, and I don't know what they were. But they were the splendor of the moment, celebration beyond celebration of the arriving season.

So, I felt deep gratitude, for it was indeed a "perfect" day.

(Note: this photo is not of the trees I saw today, but rather they are of a flowering bush of an earlier spring, and the color is perfect!)

# posted by Dorothy : 4/27/2010 04:25:00 PM

Monday, April 26, 2010

Preparing for Kundalini

Recently, I wrote the following in response to a friend who, like many, longs to taste the joy of Kundalini awakening. This is primarily my advice for those who are longing for awakening and wish to prepare themselves for such an event, should it happen.

Dear Friend,

Thank you for sharing your deep thoughts on this matter. Yours is a very complex question, and therefore I won't try to answer all of it at once. However, here are some preliminary thoughts.

First of all, be assured that transformative experiences are not that easy in their possible repercussions. I get many letters from people who have somehow triggered Kundalini before they were really ready. The result can be anything from general discomfort to intense pain, including physical and mental suffering. Some fall into heavy bliss states, only to find that these states do not last for them and then their sense of loss is intense.

Therefore, the advice I give to anyone longing for intense transcendence is to prepare and purify in every way possible. First and foremost is to clear any psychological issues that are still unresolved. Kundalini tends to act like certain drugs--it makes you much more aware of everything that is hiding under the surface. You may virtually relive past traumas, and awaken latent physical illnesses. If you are having difficulty dealing with these issues now, be assured they will now become many times over more alive in your awareness. And--even if the immediate effect of Kundalini is bliss, you will be required at some point to go back and face whatever is still waiting for resolution.

So--my advice is always--get your personal psyche in order as best you can. You need to be as strong and integrated on all levels as much a possible to take this journey. Of course, no one is totally prepared--we all have unfinished business, but sometimes the event chooses its own moment and then we simply have to deal with whatever reality we find ourselves in.

And it may take a very long time. It took me over fifteen years to reach a point of mental/psychological stasis--and even now I can get "thrown off" in surprising ways.

In truth, I paid a heavy price for whatever progress I have made. I don't know why I (of all people) have had the experiences I have had. Indeed, I have known more than my share of "bliss." But for many years each moment of bliss was accompanied with an equivalent measure of pain.

I think it is good to ask for what we desire--but I also think we should remember to ask that the wish be granted only "when we are ready."

None of us knows what exactly is our proper "place" in the spiritual hierarchy. I think we should ask to be granted that which is appropriate at this juncture in this lifetime. We are constantly progressing, transforming, changing into something other. It is that journey, that constant opening to and acceptance of what is granted that is important. We cannot "make" it happen, but we can "allow" it to happen, at the right time.

# posted by Dorothy : 4/26/2010 05:03:00 PM

Sunday, April 25, 2010

The Celebrity Lover

I knew from the

first

that you were only

temporary.

Lover who climbs in

through the window

at midnight,

leaves before dawn.

You never made

any promises,

swore no vows.

But I knew your

pattern.

How many you had

dazzled,

wooed with precious gifts

and assurances,

then

left behind

like yesterday's leftover fish.

The blazing star

who leaves a

score or more weeping

in his wake,

path strewn

with broken hearts.

So when you left

my heart was not

shattered.

I did not wail and pour ashes

on my head.

I did not grieve

in public,

didn't even tell

my best friend.

Still, sometimes

I miss you.

Wonder where you

went, what you are doing

now, your latest conquest.

If I will ever see you again.

Dorothy Walters

April 23, 2008

(Note: the above poem is intended not only for those who have been betrayed by their human loves, but also for those who have been "seduced," then abandoned by those they admired, such as teachers, mentors, gurus, and others.)

(picture from internet source)

# posted by Dorothy : 4/25/2010 11:32:00 AM

Friday, April 23, 2010

Teresa's Angel

Sometimes I think

it might have been easier,

not to have been touched

by that stroke of fire,

not to have been consumed,

like Moses’ bush, by that

flame that does not burn,

nor to have been lifted

to those storied heavens

where the gods look down

and never speak.

What does it mean

to die

before death comes?

To arrive when the journey

has barely just begun?

How would life have been

infused with the ordinary,

days worn thin with repetition,

children crying in the night,

bread rising, the wine jug filled,

as if by doing again and again

one might progress toward

an unknown goal?

On the chapel wall,

God stretches out his hand

to Adam,

and Adam comes alive,

ready to be born once more.

How did you greet

that angel who arrived?

How did you bear it,

that shock of light,

when god entered every cell?

Dorothy Walters

April 22, 2010

Saint Teresa, who lived in the sixteenth century, was noted for her "raptures." Although no one can say for certain what these were, I believe she was experiencing what we today would call "Kundalini bliss," divine union through ecstatic states of awareness.

The sculptor Bernini did a famous piece showing Teresa of Avila in full ecstasy, her face transfigured in joy as the angel beside her pierces her heart with his lance. This is her moment of awakening, her transition into overwhelming bliss.

In many ways, her experience resembles that of those awakened by Kundalini, whose intensity at times threatens to overwhelm. Though we delight in this new found state of boundless love, some of us also may question from time to time if this is what we really want, for the blessing comes at a price. Teresa herself suffered recurrent illness during her transformation process.

Teresa's most famous book is called "The Interior Castle." It maps the stages of spiritual progress to God. I think that many 'K-ers" also live in an "interior castle," for we frequently find it difficult or impossible to share our inner happenings with others.

(picture found through Google search)

# posted by Dorothy : 4/23/2010 11:08:00 AM

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Kundalini and the Internet

Did you know that Kundalini can flow through the internet? Even when you are not expecting it?

This morning, as I read a brief e-mail from a dear friend, I realized that very soft, sweet energy was moving in my hands and forearms. The letter was from someone who is himself very spiritually evolved--he has spent many years of devotion to the ultimate divine, and leads and instructs others in the practice. It was as if his own gentle energies were coming through to me, like a soft salutation.

I think this is how the "Field" will manifest. We will each be centers of energy, sending and receiving these delicate bliss waves from one another as greetings and acknowledgment. And this is why we must keep refining and lifting our own energies--so that when the signals are sent forth, we will be proper receptors. What good is a signal if the receiver is dead?

And in fact the signals are coming in now strong and clear from "other world" sources. Whether these be angels, or presiding spirits, or divine presences of love, or even some as yet unrecognized form of "alien" existence--we sense that some invisible, mysterious, and unknown reality is guiding us on this journey. It is a joint project--and, although we do not necessarily see or hear or name these unseen agents, we sense that they are there and that they and we are together "co-creating" a new form of communication and a new way of being.

Yes, gratitude is in order. How blessed we are to be included in this all important process in which humanity itself is moving to a higher stage in its evolutionary progress.

Some have called this progression the "divinization of matter." We ourselves , as bodies made of "water and clay," are the matter that is being transformed in this sacred alchemy by which we return to Source. "God throws us out into the world, then reels us back again with threads of love."

Happy transformation!

# posted by Dorothy : 4/22/2010 09:48:00 AM

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

About "Beyond Belief" and "The Secret"

"Beyond Belief" is a recent movie/DVD that presents the basic approach of "Neuro Linguistic Programming," also known as "NLP." In a separate post, I pasted the description of the various participants in the film given on its own website, but I could not include my own comments there (computer peculiarity), so I am putting up two separate posts today.

Now, in truth, I know very little about either the film or NLP, but I thought the description was interesting, so I put up the information for you to consider, if you are interested, but I am not endorsing either. The publicity says that this film goes beyond "The Secret" in exploring the Law of Attraction to create a better life for yourself. "The Secret" suggested that you could use the Law to obtain such things as an expensive car, a multimillion dollar house, or even a million dollars. Nothing was said about excessive materialism, the dangers of greed to the soul, or spiritual growth.

Now, I do believe in the Law of Attraction--and I do not believe one has to live in extreme austerity to advance spiritually. Buddha counseled the middle path, one that avoids extremes, and I strongly agree with Buddha on this. Sometimes we do indeed "ask the universe" for that which we need, and I find nothing wrong with this approach, but I also believe there are limits--that we should not seek excess or extremes in terms of material gain.

The thrust of "Beyond Belief" appears to be that one can in fact go beyond the self-imposed limits of creativity and achievement one more or less "inherits" from society. One can do more, be more, create more, and give back more than one might have suspected.

Some very interesting figures are included in the "cast," and they may have something significant to tell us.

What if the Law of Attraction could be applied to society at large as we approach the tipping point into a new future for humanity? What if we give up our limiting opinions as to what is or is not possible in terms of our common spiritual progress? What if we say, "heaven is our limit," and mean it literally?

What if we no longer have to crawl forward but instead together leap to a new level of consciousness?

Those of us undergoing Kundalini awakening know that the seemingly impossible can in fact become the foundation of our life. We know, because we have tested it in our own lives, that our experience can go well beyond the mundane, the expected, the so called "norm."

We also know that as we open up more and more to "non-ordinary experience," our lives will become ever more exciting and fulfilling. We ourselves embody the energies that science now tells us are the basis for all apparent reality. We feel in our own bodies the vibrations that pulsate through the universe. We have, in fact, gone "beyond belief," and we find confirmation in our daily lives that we are part of a process vast and inscrutable, yet of supreme importance.

Movies such as the above serve to spread the word about infinite possibility to those who are exploring these truths at a less profound level, but they are important as vehicles for increasing public awareness of the direction in which we are heading. As yet, many contemporary writers and speakers from the field of science fail to note the parallels between many of these "breakthroughs" and those of traditional Buddhism--and no one mentions Kundalini as the means through which we enact and receive the energies in our own systems.

I think that the real secret is Kundalini and how it transfigures our lives,

and how it offers experiences "Beyond Belief."

# posted by Dorothy : 4/21/2010 05:40:00 PM

Beyond Belief--the movie and the participants

II

Main Page Store Meet the Experts Buy the DVD About Us Blog

Meet the Experts

	*Producer’s Note*: The producers would like to express our appreciation to the following experts for appearing as guest speakers in the documentary. We acknowledge you for your commitment to empowering individuals to be the best they can be. It was an honor and privilege to have worked with you on this film. Thank you for your wisdom, insights and for the difference each of you makes in the world. You are a gift and an inspiration.
	Julia Cameron Credited with having founded a new human potential movement which enabled millions to realize their creative dreams, Julia Cameron eschews the title "creativity expert," preferring to describe herself simply as an "artist." Her tools for unblocking creativity have transformed millions of lives worldwide. Bestselling author of over 24 books including “The Artist’s Way”, “Finding Water: The Art of Perseverance” “Walking in This World” and “The Writing Diet”, Julia’s creativity extends as a playwright, filmmaker and composer. Julia says “I am the floor sample of my own tool kit. When we are unblocked we can have remarkable and diverse adventures. Most of us have no idea of our real creative height. We are much more gifted than we know. My tools help to nurture those gifts." http://www.theartistsway.com/
	Jack Canfield Affectionately known as "America's #1 Success Coach", Jack has studied and reported on what makes successful people different. He knows what motivates them, what drives them, and what inspires them. Jack brings this critical insight to countless audiences internationally, appearing on radio and television in every major world market. Jack Canfield was a featured speaker in the Global Film Phenomenon “The Secret”. As a bestselling author of the famous Chicken Soup for the SoulSeries he received a record in the Guinness Book of Records for having 7 books simultaneously on the NY Times Bestseller List. His other publications include “The Success Principles: How to Get From Where You Are to Where You Want To Be”, “Jack Canfield’s key to Living the Law of Attraction”, “Maximum Confidence: Ten Secrets of Extreme Self-Esteem”, “The Power of Focus”, “The Success Principles for Teens” and “Gratitude: A Daily Journal” http://www.jackcanfield.com/
	Robert Dilts Robert Dilts has been a developer, author, trainer and consultant in the field of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) since its creation in 1975 by John Grinder and Richard Bandler. Robert is a long time student and colleague of both Grinder and Bandler and a bestselling author of over 45 books in the Field of NLP, including “Beliefs, Pathways to Health and Wellbeing”, "Applications of Neuro-Linguistic Programming," “From Coach to Awakener”, “Strategies of Genius, Vol One, Two and Three ”, and “Changing Belief Systems With NLP”, In addition to spearheading the application of NLP in the areas of: education, creativity, and health, his leadership and his contributions also helped to formulate some of the original work in NLP and promote our knowledge of Belief Systems. He is the principle author of “Neuro-Linguistic Programming Vol. I” which serves as the standard NLP reference text for the field. Mr. Dilts is an International Trainer and Keynote Speaker for organizations such as World Health Organization, Harvard University, Apple Computer, World Bank and The American Society for Training and Development. Mr. Dilts Co-Founded The Institute of Advanced Studies of Health, and supervised the design of Tools for Living, a program used by Weight Watchers International. http://www.nlpu.com/robbio.htm
	Bob Doyle Bob Doyle was a featured speaker in the hit movie "The Secret". A published author, his most recent work “Wealth Beyond Reason” has allowed thousands of people to reclaim their destiny, and begin creating lives of true abundance. Bob has expanded his creative abilities as a music composer, author, keynote speaker and educator, but his real passion is the Law of Attraction and helping people to realize the full potential in their lives, no matter what their starting point or current beliefs. http://www.wealthbeyondreason.com/mystory.html
	Dr. Jonathan Ellerby Dr. Jonathan Ellerby, Spiritual Program Director for the highly acclaimed Canyon Ranch Health Resorts, has a doctoral degree in Comparative Religions and has traveled throughout the world, studying with spiritual teachers from more than 40 cultural traditions. His latest book published by Hay House, “Return to the Sacred: Ancient Pathways to Spiritual Awakening”. Through speaking engagements, workshops, retreats, presentations, consulting, training, and ceremonial work, Dr. Ellerby assists people in awakening to their spiritual connection and realizing their highest potential. http://jonathanellerby.presskit247.com/
	Stewart Emery Stewart Emery, the first CEO of EST (now Landmark Education), brings a lifetime of experience as entrepreneur, executive coach and leader, and is considered one of the fathers of the Human Potential Movement. A wonderful storyteller with a great sense of humor, Stewart has appeared as a featured guest on television and radio talk shows. He has conducted coaching interviews and presented workshops with tens of thousands in attendance. Stewart’s latest collaboration “Success Built to Last: Creating a Life That Matters” researches 300 of the world’s most successful people. Through leading workshops and seminars, writing books, delivering keynotes, and making radio and television appearances, Stewart Emery has touched the lives of millions of people. No wonder the National Media selected Mr. Emery as One of the Most Influential People in Human Potential Movement. http://www.successbuilttolast.com/Stewart_Emery.html
	Timothy Freke Tim is a clear, passionate and highly entertaining voice for our collective awakening. His books and live performances have inspired thousands of people throughout the world. In his life-changing talks and seminars he shares simple ideas and practical techniques to help participants wake up to oneness and celebrate separateness. Tim has an honors degree in philosophy and is an internationally respected authority on world spirituality. As the bestselling author of over twenty books, including “Lucid Living”, he has an established reputation as a groundbreaking scholar and original free-thinker: Tim is a keynote speaker at major conferences and is regularly featured in the global media. He is frequently a guest on the BBC and has been featured on ‘Modern Mystics.' He has been interviewed for many websites, such as Ken Wilber’s ‘Integral Naked’. He has also appeared in a number of TV documentaries, including ‘Beyond The Da Vinci Code’, ‘The Da Vinci Code Myth’, ‘Secrets of the Code’ - and he is now completely fed up talking about that damn book! http://www.timothyfreke.com/
	Amit Goswami, Ph.D. Amit Goswami, Ph.D. is a professor emeritus in the theoretical physics department of the University of Oregon and a bestselling author in the field of Quantum Physics. Dr. Goswami is a pioneer of the new paradigm of science called “science within consciousness”. Amit’s recent books include “God is Not Dead: What Quantum Physics Tells Us About Our Origins and How We Should Live”, “The Visionary Window, A Quantum Physicists Guide to Enlightenment” and “The Quantum Doctor, A Physicist’s Guild to Health and Healing” In his private life, Goswami is a practitioner of spirituality and transformation. Amit calls himself a quantum activist. He is featured in the award winning film “What the Bleep Do We Know“. A highly acclaimed International Presenter, Dr. Goswami is at heart a fun, friendly, compassionate human being. http://www.amitgoswami.org/
	Christina Hall Ph.D. Christina, a seasoned and respected international trainer, is acknowledged as a major contributor to the development of NLP. She began her NLP training almost 30 years ago with the NLP Co-Developers during the pioneering days. Christina has taught NLP throughout the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, France, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Croatia, Hungary, Australia and Japan. Christina is one of the few people in the world recognized by ANLP (Association for Neuro-Linguistic Programming, United Kingdom) as an accepted trainer of NLP Trainers and Master Trainers, and is one of only 12 people to have been offered an Inaugural Honorary Lifetime Fellowship of the ANLP in recognition of her skill and contributions to the field. A dynamic teacher, Chris is recognized for her caring, in-depth knowledge, and the sense of discovery she brings into the learning environment. http://www.chris-nlp-hall.com/
	David R. Hamilton, Ph.D. Dr. David Hamilton gained a first class honors degree in chemistry from the University of Strathclyde, specializing in biological and medicinal chemistry and a PhD in organic chemistry in 1995 from the same University. He worked as a scientist in one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies near Manchester in the UK. He also served as an athletics coach of Sale Harriers in Manchester as well as the manager of the junior men's team, inspiring them to 3 successive UK championship finals. David left the pharmaceutical industry and athletics coaching and returned to Scotland and became a motivational speaker. In 2005, he self-published his first book, “It's the Thought That Counts” which was soon published by Hayhouse. His latest book, “How Your Mind Can Heal Your Body”, was released in 2008. David now gives talks and runs workshops in the UK and around the world. http://www.drdavidhamilton.com/
	Dr. Maisha Hazzard, Ph.D. Maisha Hazzard holds advanced degrees in Communication (Ph.D.); Transpersonal Psychology (Ph.D.); Behavioral Science (M.A.); and Metaphysics (M.Msc.). In the late 1970s, while preparing to take the entrance examination for medical school, she was shown visions of an emerging field of medicine based on quantum mechanics and consciousness. She abandoned the allopathic medicine career path and entered a Ph.D. program in Communication. At the same time she continued her independent studies in metaphysics, quantum physics, energy psychology, new biology, energy medicine, and consciousness. Dr. Hazzard has spent more than 20 years as a university professor and international consultant in Telecommunications, Information Technology, International Studies, Behavior Change Communication, Media and Performing Arts, and Education on five continents, and has taught, lectured, produced, and performed in India, Jamaica, Barbados, Guyana, Brazil, Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, South Africa, France, Canada, and the United States. She is now part of the ministerial staff at the Agape International Spiritual Center under the leadership of Dr. Michael Beckwith, and serves as a member of the faculty in the University of Transformational Studies. She is co-founder and president of Khepra International Ministries and co-creator of Khepra's healing energy process, Heart-Mind Transformation. http://www.utsla.com/index.php?page=370
	Elaine Hendrix Actress Elaine Hendrix starred in the award-winning film “What the Bleep Do We Know”, in addition to television and Feature Films. In Hollywood ELAINE HENDRIX has been called an “actor’s actor”. An award-winning producer, Elaine is currently working on her fourth feature. Rounding out her creative expression as an author, Elaine feels it is important to maintain a healthy balance of work, play, spirituality, and shopping! Elaine offers a compassionate and down-to-earth view of her journey to success. http://www.elainehendrix.com/
	Dr. Tad James For 2 decades, Tad has been dedicated to empowering people to discover and celebrate their inner magnificence using NLP, Time Line Therapy™ and Hypnosis. Speaking to thousands annually in the United States and abroad, in partnership with his wife Adrianna, the couple shares with their audience how these powerful tools can create the life of your dreams! A bestselling author in the Field of NLP and Timeline, including “Timeline Therapy and the Basis of Personality”, and “The Secret of Creating Your Future”, Tad is also President of the American Institute of Hypnotherapy and Executive Director of the American Board of Hypnotherapy. http://www.nlpcoaching.com/media/
	Dr. Adriana James Adrianna was an acclaimed concert violinist and Concert Master at the prestigious Sydney Opera Company. Her intense curiosity around excellence in the Human Potential movement led her to NLP. Her interest in the unconscious mind led to studies of Alternative Modes of Consciousness, where she obtained her PhD. Adrianna is a Certified Master Trainer of NLP and was selected “Woman of the Year” by American Biographical Institute. Tad and Adrianna married in 1994 in Hawaii, and the synergy of this dynamic team allows them to transform thousands of lives each year, as they present workshops and trainings in the U.S. and abroad.
	Bruce Lipton, Ph.D. Dr. Bruce Lipton, Professor, Cell Biologist and Research Scientist, is an internationally recognized authority in bridging science and spirit. An internationally recognized author, including groundbreaking book “TheBiology of Belief”, He has been a guest speaker on dozens of TV and radio shows, as well as keynote presenter for national conferences. His groundbreaking discovery in Cell Biology provides scientific evidence for the mind/body connection. http://www.brucelipton.com/
	Brad Morris Brad Morris is a true Agent-of-Change. His passion is to inspire individuals to live the life they have always dreamed of by shifting limited perceptions, and living a grateful life. Brad is a living example to the younger generations that anyone from any background can make a difference and that anyone who chooses to, can live an awesome, fulfilling life. After completing his second year in college in Victoria, B.C., Canada, Brad chose to drop out of school. Faced with many personal challenges and hardships, he now looks at each of those challenges that he overcame as a true blessing. Brad’s enthusiasm for life and authenticity have empowered and inspired thousands of youth, young adults and parents. His fun teaching methods and humorous stories help people to change how they see themselves and the world around them so that they can live their life “The GratiDude Way” and create permanent, positive change. http://www.thegratidudes.com/
	Judith Orloff, M.D. Transforming the face of psychiatry, Judith Orloff, MD is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA, as well as a best selling author. Dr. Orloff comes from a family of 25 physicians and advocates ‘a democracy of healing,’ wherein every aspect of the self is granted a vote in the search for total health. She has been celebrated for her unique approach to mental well-being by proving that the links between physical, emotional, and spiritual health cannot be ignored. Dr. Orloff is the author of the New York Times bestseller "Emotional Freedom: Liberate Yourself From Negative Emotions and Transform Your Life." Her other bestsellers include “Positive Energy”, “Guide to Intuitive Healing," and "Second Sight.” In addition, she leads international workshops and seminars on Intuition. She has presented to medical schools, hospitals, universities, the American Psychiatric Association, Fortune Magazine’s Most Powerful Women Summit, and alternative and traditional health forums—venues where she presents tools to doctors, patients, and everyday people. As a board-certified psychiatrist, Dr. Orloff blends her traditional medical skills with intuition to enhance patient care. http://www.drjudithorloff.com/
	Rev. Greta Sesheta Rev. Greta Sesheta is an ordained Assistant Minister at Agape International Spiritual Center. Formerly the Assistant Dean of Holmes Institute School of Consciousness Studies and of Agape Institute, she has been an active member of the Agape community and the Agape International Choir since January 1990. A licensed Practitioner since 1993, she has produced the Soul Sisters Women’s Retreat for eleven years, facilitated groups at Agape’s annual “Revelation” Conferences, led workshops and created sacred ceremonies and rites of passage for individuals and organizations. A popular pulpit speaker and faculty member at the University of Transformational Studies and Leadership at Agape (UTSLA), Rev. Greta currently has responsibility for the Agape Public Relations Ministry. She was founding administrative assistant and publicist for the 1998 launching of “A Season for NonViolence,” a 64-day international campaign that honors the work of Mahatma Gandhi and Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. She has a Masters Degree in Fine Arts from UCLA and a Masters of Consciousness Studies from Holmes Institute. She currently writes the Agape eBulletin which over 14,000 people receive online and often appears as an actress on television and in national print media. http://www.utsla.com/index.php?page=378
	Marci Shimoff Marci is one of the bestselling female non-fiction authors of all time. Her books include: “Happy For No Reason”, “Remarkable Women”, and“Chicken Soup for the Woman’s Soul”. Marci was featured in the global film phenomenon “The Secret”. She is President and Co-Founder of The Esteem Group. A celebrated transformational leader and one of the nation's leading experts on happiness, success, and the law of attraction, Marci has inspired millions of people around the world, sharing her breakthrough methods for personal fulfillment and professional success. http://www.happyfornoreason.com
	Sandra Anne Taylor Sandra Anne Taylor has been a counselor in private psychological practice for more than 25 years. A bestselling author, her work includes “Secrets of Success: The Science and Spirit of Real Prosperity”, “28 Days to a More Magnetic Life”, and “Quantum Success: The Astounding Science of Wealth and Happiness”. A highly motivating and inspiring international speaker and corporate consultant, Sandra has been featured on national radio and in print media. She lectures worldwide on healing, quantum psychology, and the energy dynamics of personal, financial, and relationship success, offering practical yet powerful life-changing techniques. http://www.sandrataylor.net/
	James Twyman James Twyman is an internationally renowned, best-selling author, filmmaker and musician who has a reputation for traveling to some of the world's greatest areas of conflict, sharing his message of peace. His books include “The Art if Spiritual Peacemaking”, “The Moses Code” and“Emissary of Light”, He has been called "The Peace Troubadour" and has performed his peace concert in countries in conflict, drawing millions of people together in prayer to influence events of world crisis. http://www.emissaryoflight.com
	Joe Vitale Bestselling author Dr. Joe Vitale, President of Hypnotic Marketing, Inc. has written ‘too many books to count’ including one for the American Marketing Association. His titles include “Zero Limits”, “The Attractor Factor”, “Expect Miracles”, “The Key, The Missing Secret for Attracting Anything You Want” and “Life’s Missing Instruction Manual”. He was a featured speaker in the transformational film “The Secret”. It didn't start this way for Dr Vitale. Thirty years ago he was broke, desperate and living on the street. Through a series of odd “coincidences”, he found his inner calling and turned his life around, achieving fame and success appearing as a featured guest on television, radio and in print. A dynamic speaker, Dr Vitale is also the most generous, humble and down to earth, good people you will ever have the privilege to meet. http://www.mrfire.com/
	Rev. Cheryl J. Ward, J.D. Rev. Cheryl Ward. is Dean of the University of Transformational Studies and Leadership at UTSLA. She serves as Assistant Minister at the Agape International Spiritual Center, and is Head of the Curriculum Design Team. For over 14 years, Reverend Cheryl has taught Foundational classes, Self Mastery classes and facilitated various Revelation POD’s. Former Dean of the Law School at the University of West Los Angeles, Rev. Cheryl is a dynamic International Speaker and Lecturer leading people to self-awareness. http://www.utsla.com/index.php?page=371
	Dr. Darren Weissman Dr. Darren R. Weissman, a Chicagoland native, is an internationally renowned physician, speaker, educator, and author of “The Power ofInfinite Love & Gratitude, An Evolutionary Journey to Awakening Your Spirit”. He has practiced holistic medicine for 14 years. Dr. Weissman is a contributing author in the latest best-selling book by Dr. Masaru Emoto, “The Healing Power of Water”. He is currently writing a second book in the field of energy medicine. http://www.infiniteloveandgratitude.com/