Spiritual Growth in the Modern Age

One of the biggest challenges in these modern times is to keep our spirituality in check despite a society which is focused on financial prosperity, power, and the influence of others.  In this age of so many modern conveniences, forming our own feelings an opinions without allowing ourselves to be influenced by everything we see and hear on TV, the internet, magazines, and other people struggling to "keep up with the Joneses" can be a tall order as well.  The most discouraging part is that so many aspects of this media are centered around our physical desires and interests.  This can lead to a vast inner emptiness, a lack of awareness of our true selves, and limited (if any) attention to our spiritual or philosophical aspects.  Such a state can make it challenging, to say the least, for the modern person to balance the physical and the spiritual.

One of the first keys to the care and feeding of your spirituality is to try some introspection.  Looking inside yourself is partly about recalling things that you've done, or that have been done to you.  However, this is also a drop in the bucket in comparison to what else there is.  When you assess your feelings, what motivates you, why you make the decisions that you do, and your priorities, you are gaining insight into your true self.  Introspection is a learnable skill which can help you to know yourself on a deeper and more intimate level.  It can be difficult, or even shocking, to come to certain truths about yourself, but remember -- don't judge yourself, be objective.  And, above all, look for places where you can improve upon the self you know.

After you have thoroughly examined your inner life, it is time to determine the direction that you'd like to take things.


To grow spiritually is to develop your potentials.

Religion and science have differing views on matters of the human spirit. Religion views people as spiritual beings temporarily living on Earth, while science views the spirit as just one dimension of an individual. Mastery of the self is a recurring theme in both Christian (Western) and Islamic (Eastern) teachings. The needs of the body are recognized but placed under the needs of the spirit. Beliefs, values, morality, rules, experiences, and good works provide the blueprint to ensure the growth of the spiritual being. In Psychology, realizing oneís full potential is to self-actualize. Maslow identified several human needs: physiological, security, belongingness, esteem, cognitive, aesthetic, self-actualization, and self-transcendence. James earlier categorized these needs into three: material, emotional, and spiritual. When you have satisfied the basic physiological and emotional needs, spiritual or existential needs come next. Achieving each need leads to the total development of the individual. Perhaps the difference between these two religions and psychology is the end of self-development: Christianity and Islam see that self-development is a means toward serving God, while psychology view that self-development is an end by itself.

To grow spiritually is to search for meaning.

Religions that believe in the existence of God such as Christianism, Judaism, and Islam suppose that the purpose of the human life is to serve the Creator of all things. Several theories in psychology propose that we ultimately give meaning to our lives. Whether we believe that lifeís meaning is pre-determined or self-directed, to grow in spirit is to realize that we do not merely exist. We do not know the meaning of our lives at birth; but we gain knowledge and wisdom from our interactions with people and from our actions and reactions to the situations we are in. As we discover this meaning, there are certain beliefs and values that we reject and affirm.  Our lives have purpose. This purpose puts all our physical, emotional, and intellectual potentials into use; sustains us during trying times; and gives us something to look forward to---a goal to achieve, a destination to reach. A person without purpose or meaning is like a drifting ship at sea.

To grow spiritually is to recognize interconnections.

Religions stress the concept of our relatedness to all creation, live and inanimate. Thus we call other people ìbrothers and sistersî even if there are no direct blood relations. Moreover, deity-centered religions such as Christianity and Islam speak of the relationship between humans and a higher being. On the other hand, science expounds on our link to other living things through the evolution theory. This relatedness is clearly seen in the concept of ecology, the interaction between living and non-living things. In psychology, connectedness is a characteristic of self-transcendence, the highest human need according to Maslow. Recognizing your connection to all things makes you more humble and respectful of people, animals, plants, and things in nature. It makes you appreciate everything around you. It moves you to go beyond your comfort zone and reach out to other people, and become stewards of all other things around you.

Growth is a process thus to grow in spirit is a day-to-day encounter. We win some, we lose some, but the important thing is that we learn, and from this knowledge, further spiritual growth is made possible.

Award Recipient: Techies 4U, Inc.!

The Sage Institute is pleased to present our newest award recipient, Techies 4 U, Inc., with our Small Business of the Year award!  This great company has shown a remarkable amount of growth and improvement during its relatively short time in business, and as such has earned this honor for its dedication to success, growth, and innovation.  

Techies 4 U is a business that is based in the midwestern USA which prides itself on attention to detail when serving its customers.  This company has been providing exemplary service to their customers since 2005, with a mission statement that shows they understand the importance of making technology easy and accessible for all people.

We are so thrilled to select this awesome small business for our Small Business of the Year!  Congratulations to Techies 4 U, and we wish you much continued success!

Award Recipient: WHYBMNetwork's deCODED Sexes

deCODED Sexes is a SnapChat based show from the WHYBMNetwork that highlights the differences between gender roles in a creative, fun, and uplifting way.  The show stars a panel of guests who answer questions, make comments, and inform the viewer about a variety of subjects.

One of the things we love about this show is that while it has a humorous and lighthearted tone, its main intent is actually to inform and teach while it entertains.  Issues such as sociology, gender relations, and societal expectations based on our identities are highlighted and challenged.  The panel shares experiences that they have had based on relationships or other experiences, and the audience laughs along while they’re also thinking and relating to the characters.

We at the Sage Institute are proud to present deCODED Sexes with a Media Innovation Award!  Tackling complicated subject matters in ways that are relatable and easy to access is the hallmark of quality programming.  We love deCODED Sexes, and can’t wait to see what they come up with next!

Check them out online!

Add WHYBMNetwork on Snapchat: http://smarturl.it/whybmnetwork
Instagram: http://instagram.com/whybmnetwork 
Twitter: http://twitter.com/whybmnetwork
#deCODEDSexes Merch Shop - http://smarturl.it/deCODEDShop

Award Recipient: Rashawn Johnson

The Sage Institute is proud to bestow an award for Excellence in the Arts to a new author with a positive message for the world.  Rashawn Johnson's literary works center around spirituality, positivity, and advice for unlocking your true potential.  Because we love surrounding ourselves with people who immerse themselves in the positive, we think that Rashawn Johnson is definitely someone you will want to follow.  His literary themes center around the importance of following your beliefs when choosing which directions to take in your life path; there is power in the simple act of having faith.

We want to extend our thanks to Rashawn for sharing these lessons with the world.  Thank you, Rashawn, for everything that you do, and congratulations on receiving our award for Excellence in the Arts!

James Bowie: Humanitarian Award Recipient!

I am pleased to announce our newest recipient of the Sage Institute's Humanitarian Award.  James Bowie has worked tirelessly to make this world a better place, one person at a time.  Through his amazing efforts with Hull Homeless Outreach, a nonprofit organization in Kingston Upon Hull in the United Kingdom, James has been able to transform lives and make true, lasting change.

He founded this organization in 2013, and has been helping to provide the homeless with a voice ever since.  Together, with those who have volunteered their time and effort, James has been able to empower others to be their very best.  Jame's Bowie's organization does not turn away anyone who is in need of their services; the mission statement of this great charity includes the words, "to believe and make others believe in sharing, caring, and helping those in need."

If any of my readers are seeking more information about this great organization, check out Hull Homeless Outreach's Facebook page to learn more about how to get involved.  You can also have a look at their website, which has links to GoFundMe and explains other ways to help.

We are proud to present James Bowie with this award.  People like James make the world a better place by not just helping others, but by inspiring others to do so as well.  Thank you, James and Hull Homeless Outreach, for everything that you do!

What Sign Is Pluto In Now?

Currently, Pluto is in the sign of Capricorn, where it will stay until the year 2024.

What this means is that, generationally, there is a struggle with power and authority.  During this time, many people will be trying to reclaim control of their lives, and of the environment around them.  You'll see this manifest in ways such as society's renewed interest in trying to make less waste, being more self-sufficient, living "off the grid," growing their own food, making their own stuff, homeschooling, simplifying and streamlining what was previously quite complicated and complex.

During this time, it is very important for people to realize what they have control over, and attempt to change it.  Fine-tuning that which we have power over can make a world of difference in our lives.  Conversely, it's also vital that we realize what's bigger than we are -- what we cannot control -- and learn to make peace with those things as we tweak the areas of our life that we can control.

Capricorn rules over money, authority, and yes, greed.  Therefore, we are likely to see the falls and failings of the rich and powerful during this time.  People who have shown greed and dishonesty are likely to get a come-uppance at the hands of this astrological sign.  Additionally, corrupt authority has a chance to be exposed, shocking and appalling the public.  Again, this is karmic in nature as Pluto exposes the dirty backroom dealings that have controlled too much, or steered certain situations in ways that they should not have been.  Finally these dealings will be exposed for all to see.

Pluto's position in Capricorn might feel stifling or cold, but in fact, this is a very healing and therapeutic astrological time period.  Take heart!  Pluto's journey here seeks to destroy what feels restrictive and unnecessary, and instead paves the way for something new -- it knocks down existing structures, giving us space to rebuild what will serve us better.  Pluto will expose the truth, unpleasant as it may seem, and help us learn from what is, so that we can determine the best way to shape what's to come.

Affirmation Definition: What Are Affirmations, And How Can We Use Them?

The term “affirmation” can sound so magical, so esoteric.  Is it an incantation?  A chant?  A mantra?  I suppose if that’s what you want it to be, it can be.  However, it needn’t be shrouded in such mystery.  In the simplest of terms, an affirmation is a simple phrase, sentence, a prayer, or even just a word that you can think or speak out loud in order to gain personal power.  As its name implies, an affirmation affirms — it makes things happen, turns a neutral or negative thought or feeling into something more positive.

Affirmations, while simple, can have an immense amount of power!  They can transform your relationship with yourself, and with others.  They can enable you to view the world differently.  Affirmations can aid in comforting you during times of fear or distress, and can even help you to attract positive people and situations in your life.  In short, affirmation power can open up your entire being, and make you, yourself, become a wellspring of positivity for yourself — and source of positive energy for the universe through which to work its wonders.

The best part about affirmations is that anyone can use them — instantly!  They are free, they are fast, and they require nothing more than faith and conviction.  There are many places to find affirmations online, but you can also create your own as well, to fit whatever situation you need.

Remember that words have power.  Thoughts create action.  Affirmations can bridge the gap between thought and deed, in order to empower you to be your very best self so that you may improve your own life.  They can help you see new opportunities where none existed before.  They can open your heart and soul to new experiences, so that you can enjoy all that life has to offer.  They can also uplift you, comfort you, and enable you to heal yourself spiritually — so that you can continue to be your very best.

Humanitarian Award: TechFromVets.Com

ConsultTheSage.com is so very proud to bestow our latest Sage Institute Humanitarian Award to our friends at TechFromVets.com, an organization that is making the world better for our soldiers as well as the rest of the world.

This amazing organization is more than just your average technology company. It is owned and operated by military veterans; TechFromVets.com specializes in a number of different types of software development including, apps, websites, and other digital marketing materials. The skills which these veterans learn during their time in the military can translate into productive and proactive civilian duties as well.  Not only are these soldiers putting their sharp skills to good use to support themselves and their families, they are helping companies in the private sector benefit from their expertise.

Check out www.TechFromVets.com to learn more about this organization’s exciting projects!

Let Life Bloom: Easy Ways to Be Positive Every Day

Have you ever wanted to be more positive?  Of course you have!

I am not talking about those imaginary people who wake up every morning with perfect hair, who sing at the sun and allow birds to fly in and chirp a happy morning tune to begin each day.  Those people only exist in fairy tales!

But we do all have our own "emotional baseline" -- some people tend to be generally happier and more positive than others.  The ups and downs may be affected by situations around us, or even those of our own choosing.  Even though it's not possible -- or healthy -- to be 100% positive during every waking second of our lives, there are ways that we can each manage those emotional baselines in order to become happier and more productive.

Instead of waking up with those chirping birds, try to avoid things that tweet -- including social media -- in that first hour or two of your day.  As an alternative, strive instead for quieter and less distracting ways to wake up in the mornings.  Eat a healthy breakfast, meditate, and get ready for your day on your own terms.  Immediately jumping on your phone, especially diving into social media platforms such as Facebook or Twitter -- as much fun as they may be -- can really "harsh your mellow" and put you in a more distracted, more negative frame of mind, even before you've gotten out of bed!  Tend to your own body's needs before picking up that smart phone.

Keeping your work and living spaces free of clutter can also help to keep your mindset positive.  I don't know about the rest of the world, but I can get downright panicky when I lose something.  Life is so much easier when my stuff is organized.  However, I am not always the most organized human being -- in fact, I'm still working on that!  I probably always will be.  But I do know that cutting my clutter has helped me to discover what is most important in my life, and it's also enabled me to find it a little easier.  When you minimize, you can prioritize, which can in turn make the pacing of your life slower, easier, happier.

Spending time around children and animals can help too.  See the world through the lens of someone a bit simpler than you.  Kids are naturally imaginative and intuitive, without all of the complications that adults sometimes like to throw into things.  Animals, too.  There is nothing like going on an adventure with your favorite kid, or taking your dog for a walk -- watch how they notice and enjoy all of the little things that we tend to miss!  If you don't have either of these in your life, borrow some from a friend.

Remember to take notice of those little things in life.  Our lives are made up of small moments, and there's lots to love in each one.  Take care of yourself, take care of others, and let others care for you as well!

Spotlight on Delyric Oracle, Recipient of Our Humanitarian Award

We are so proud to bestow the very first Sage Institute Humanitarian Award to Delyric Oracle!  This amazing woman from New York plays so many different roles in life, and gives 100% to each of them: she's a talented hip hop artist, owner of her own label, an accomplished author, and the champion of many causes which she holds dear.

Ms. de Scheel is the owner of her own label, Delyric Entertainment, and as a musical artist herself, enables others' voices to be heard as well, ensuring that the artists she works with are treated fairly and with respect for their craft.  But artistic expressions aren't the only thing this young woman is passionate about.  Making the world a better place is not only a driving force in Delyric's music, but also in the way that she lives her life, each and every day.  Delyric Entertainment regularly holds concerts to benefit the homeless; additionally, Ms. de Scheel works with organizations such as the Arizona Womens' Partnership, an all-volunteer non-profit organization which is dedicated to promoting womens' groups through publicity and grants.

Not only is Alexandra de Scheel an artist of remarkable talent, but a person of great compassion and action as well!  ConsultTheSage.Com is thrilled to name Delyric Oracle as the recipient of the Sage Institute Humanitarian Award.  Thank you, Delyric Oracle, for everything that you do!

You can also find Delyric Oracle on Instagram and Facebook -- check her out, she's amazing. :)

How to Save Your Marriage

As individuals, we really should learn to be happy with ourselves.  But we’re human; we’re wired to want and need companionship.  When we enter into a good relationship, the world can be a brighter and more beautiful place.  But when we’re part of a good relationship that sours over time, things can go dark and ugly pretty quickly.  Any relationship may begin happily and with the best of intentions, but as things go along, misunderstandings may arise due to any number of factors – ego, personal issues, or external situations that take their toll on the relationship.  When things come to a breaking point, one or both parties in a couple may decide that the relationship has run its course.

Divorce or separation can affect both the social and personal aspects of each person involved. It may be surprising to know that even when problems do come up, the marriage does not need to end. Most issues can be addressed and managed with some hard work and dedication. I have coached and counseled many people with relationship problems, and here are five of my favorite pieces of advice for couples with fractured relationships…

1. Understand and agree the problems exist. We’re not talking about giving or receiving blame and fault at this stage of the game; let’s just focus on the idea that there are problems, and things need to change.  Too many people will live in denial all the way up until the last possible second – and by then, it's often too late. Be honest with yourself and your partner. Try to identify what the issues are in your relationship so that you can make an effort to improve them. Denial is not your friend.  Instead of retreating, practice acceptance.  With acceptance comes the ability to prepare for the challenges you'll be facing.

2.  Communicate without fear or judgement.  Author George R.R. Martin is quoted as saying “The unseen enemy is always the most fearsome." When it comes to marriages good or bad, this concept is always true. Whether there are known and concrete problems, or things just "seem off” in your relationship, there is no better solution then to start a dialogue. Give your spouse many chances to open up and try to get his or her perspective.  Even if your partner is unwilling to discuss problems with you, persevere. However, know that sooner or later they will need to start opening up if they wish to save the marriage too. In the meantime, watch and listen carefully for cues and clues.  And don't forget to be transparent in your own feelings.

3. Never underestimate the importance of passion. Problem-solving should be your biggest priority, but reigniting that flame of passion that you once shared is also one of the most important parts in salvaging a damaged relationship. This does not mean that you need to force yourself to have lots of insincere sex or to fake orgasms. What it does mean, though, is that you need to reconnect in fundamental ways. Remember what attracted you most to your partner when your relationship was young. Encourage your partner to share what attracted them to you as well.  We may have a few extra gray hairs on our heads and a few more pounds beneath our belts, but essentially, you are still that lovable "you" that once took their breath away. Strive to relive those moments and feelings.

4. Seek help. Marriage counselors, coaches and therapists are all fabulous resources in the quest for saving a marriage that is mostly good. There is nothing wrong with seeking help and learning the tools that you need in order to mend something that needs some reinforcement.  Getting help is a sign of strength, never of weakness.

5. The most important tip that I can give you is to have patience. You did not get into this mess overnight, and you won't get out of it overnight either. Be consistent as well as persistent. If you love your spouse, and you feel that your marriage is worth saving, work together in order to make that slow and steady effort.  Give it time.

My bonus tip for you is that while it only takes one person to want to end a relationship, it takes both people to want to save it. At the end of the day, it truly doesn't matter whose fault it is that things aren't perfect, who did what, or why it happened.  Both people need to be on board with repairing the relationship, and both people have work to do in order to make that happen. There will be times when walking away is the only option; but until or unless your sure that it is, it's not too late to try turning the tide.

Happiness in Communing with Nature

Our fast-paced world can really burn us out quickly.  With technology enabling us to communicate faster and easier than ever before, "alone time" is quickly becoming a concept of the past.  It can be wonderful to feel connected, but it can also be daunting and draining as well.  How can we get back to basics and quiet the multitudes of voices that surround us?

The answer may be simpler than you think.  Try communing with nature!

Immersing yourself in nature doesn't need to be an elaborately planned scenario.  Try taking a walk.  Even in an urban area, you're going to have opportunities to see animals and plants -- even if it's just squirrels in your local park, or the shade of a tree planted by the sidewalk of a busy road.  Find a place to sit and breathe the air.  Observe the weather -- is it sunny out?  What time of day is it?  Perhaps you can enjoy the clouds during the daytime, or try to see stars at night.

If that's too difficult, or your access to nature is limited, try simply gazing out your window at the sky.  Alternatively, you can bring natural elements inside by planting flowers, herbs, or other small plants indoors. 

Whatever way you decide to commune with nature, know that it will rejuvenate your mind and spirit when you're able to let go and focus on the world around you.  Our planet is filled with beautiful things, so take the time to enjoy!

Read for Your Happiness!

There's a whole world in each and every book!  To me, reading is like meditation.  It can quiet the mind, activate the imagination, reduce stress, and force your focus elsewhere.  Reading is such a wonderful way to fill your head and relax your body all at the same time.

You needn't choose to read anything lofty, or super cerebral -- it's nice if you like that, and by all means choose it if you want to -- but even something easy and light can provide the benefits of reading.  Grab your tablet, your dusty copy of War and Peace, or even the fun, short fashion magazine that brings a smile on your face and inspiration to your heart.

No matter what you choose to read, reading leads to learning -- which reads a richer and fuller life!

The Importance of Alone Time

In a world where we're used to always being connected with others, we cannot underestimate how important it is to unplug, unwind, and just spend time alone.

If you're exhausted after a long week of work and personal obligations, there is nothing wrong with kicking back with some ice cream and your favorite TV show.  If you're able to do so, make the time to spend an entire day by yourself.  This doesn't need to be often, unless you need lots of time to recharge your batteries. 

Try to set aside some time weekly, or even every few days, for a small mental vacation.  Give yourself time to meditate, to read, even to cook or to plan your week.  If you're able to set aside larger blocks of time, make an effort to have an "alone date" once a month, perhaps for an entire day or night.  By making opportunities to keeping yourself company, you'll also be better able to relate to others as well.

Spend Time With Your Friends

We often get immersed in relationships with our significant others, or our families.  But we should also strive to spend time with our friends, too.

Friends are the families that we choose for ourselves.  Lovers may come and go.  Family members -- even though they love us -- can sometimes possess blind spots about us, since their opinions of us may not change as we grow.  Friendships with those outside of our romantic or familial circles are vital to our psychological and spiritual health; they can offer us perspectives of who we are as people.  Friends can also give us the objective opinions and ideas that others may not.

Make the time to maintain the relationships with your existing friends, or expand your social circle to include more people. 

For the Love of Bubbles

One of the greatest things that we can ever do in order to love ourselves, is the simple yet vital act of self-care. Self-care is not a “one size fits all” type of behavior. Although the basics are universal, the concept of self-care can take very many forms: keeping ourselves well fed, exercising, getting adequate rest, keeping ourselves safe. Stress reduction is a very large part of self-care as it can encompass so many different facets of being good to ourselves.

An important such ingredient in the recipe of our own self-care is cleanliness. Keeping ourselves and the world around us clean is a wonderful way to show love and regard for ourselves (and other people, since they have to smell us too!). However, simply keeping ourselves clean, or enabling others to do so (like our children, for example) is more than just a simple act of hygiene or physical health. It is also an important aspect of our mental health as well.

The website For the Love of Bubbles, reveals a very poignant and important philosophy of cleanliness as an act of self-care: it’s important, but it should also be fun! The owner and operator of For the Love of Bubbles, Ayieta Crawford, shares with readers her passion for all things bath and body, so that she can entertain as well as inform friends and fans alike.

For a person like myself, the physical act of bathing is intertwined with the spiritual act of cleansing as well – not just a purification of the body, but a purification of the soul as well. For the Love of Bubbles is a website that truly understands that bathing is helpful for all of our dimensions: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. A truly good bath product should clean well, but it should also make us feel more than just clean. It should renew the spirit, entice the senses, and rejuvenate us whether we are finishing up the night with a long relaxing soak in the tub – or we are simply doing a quick scrub to wake up and take on the day.

Ayieta also loves to share her sweet and soapy adventures with products that come from small businesses and independent retailers. Her philosophy seems to incorporate the idea that even small businesses can create huge amounts of happiness in every product -- and sometimes, just as a fast-food restaurant cannot compare to a home-cooked meal -- nothing can satisfy the need to feel pampered and loved better than a beautiful bar of homemade soap or an amazing small-batch sugar scrub!

For the Love of Bubbles isn't just about loving bath and body products. The blog expresses a great deal of love for its followers, too. From giving tips on the best brands or the coolest new products, to announcing some truly awesome prize giveaways, this blog is clearly not just one of many marketing tools in the online realm... Instead, it is a labor of love, handcrafted with care, exactly like the product brands that Ayieta loves to share with the world.

Oh... And the pictures of her "soap rack" (as opposed to a run of the mill soap dish!) are pretty spectacular too. Check out For the Love of Bubbles today, and add a little magic to your next bath!

So... Exactly What Is Cupping, Anyway?

The cupping trend is taking the holistic wellness world by storm!  Everyone is asking... "What is cupping?"

Cupping is an age-old therapeutic practice where cups, usually made out of glass, are heated and applied to various meridians along the body. These special therapeutic cups rest on the skin and create a suction in order to stimulate energy flow within the body.

Although this practice originated in Chinese medicine, massage cupping has enjoyed a surge of popularity in modern times.  Cupping is now actually a very current and popular practice. Cupping massage simply combines the two practices of massage therapy and cupping therapy, in order to provide a powerful holistic wellness experience.

Ancient Chinese cupping practices involved using glass cups, but obviously those aren't always convenient for everyone who is practicing this type of alternative therapy. Luckily, in the modern age, cupping therapy sets are actually made of all types of materials. Silicone cupping sets are considered among the best of these.  They are very common and highly prized as they are durable and flexible.  Additionally, a silicone suction cup can be much easier and safer to use.

My 3-piece silicone cupping set in action!

The vacuum therapy practices of cupping are a fantastic alternative medicine supplement for health as well as beauty. Many people are turning to this practice instead of commercial anti-aging products. One of the many benefits of cupping is that it has been said to provide the best wrinkle treatment possible for simply the reasonable price of your favorite reusable silicone cupping set.  Instead of investing time and energy, not to mention money, in skincare products to reduce wrinkles, facial cupping can be used to help reduce wrinkles. Many of the creams, lotions, and surgical procedures on the market today may or may not be effective, but facial cupping is being used more and more as not only does it reduce wrinkles, it can be a safe and noninvasive alternative to surgery.

Other benefits of cupping are truly remarkable to one's musculoskeletal health. Many pain sufferers turn to this ancient practice in order to alleviate muscle spasms and to help with lymphatic drainage.  Cupping can also be an excellent supplement to your myofascial release therapy routine. A suction cup can aid in the massage of sore tissue, and also to promote better circulation.

The silicone cupping set that I own is from CuppingWarehouse.com.  My set is just perfect for a beginner!  The three-piece cupping set was easy to use from the moment it emerged from the package.  It is also safe, and was very stimulating for my skin.  The cup artisans at Cupping Warehouse are known for their fabulous holistic health products: these items are a modern version of the ancient tools which were so effectively used in days long ago. This silicone cupping set is soft but durable, very safe and easy to use, yet surprisingly effective. Additionally, Cupping Warehouse offers a free trial subscription of the "Cupping Secrets" section of their website, so users can learn even more methods and techniques of cupping to look and feel fabulous!

To learn more about cupping, or even to order your own awesome silicone cupping set, have a look at CuppingWarehouse.com today.  It's a must for anyone who practices Reiki, therapeutic massage, or any other form of alternative medicine. Enjoy!

Jake and the Giants: An Awesome Little Movie With a Big Heart!

The modern world is inundated with media of all types. Despite the fact that there's no shortage of things to see and discuss with others, it can still be extremely challenging to find something that's enjoyable for everyone in the family.

Boat Angel Family Films has made this challenge much easier.  With their emphasis on kid-friendly media, Boat Angel produces content that is of the highest quality, safe for viewers of any age, and most of all, lots of fun!

Their new 2016 release, Jake and the Giants, is the story of a little boy and his sister as they rescue their parents, who have been kidnapped by evil giants. Along this arduous quest to free their family, the kids make some interesting and helpful friends. These chance encounters result in the formation of a formidable team that tenaciously fights for the people they love.

This film, while entertaining, is also filled with important lessons for the viewers. The underlying themes of fighting for what's right, sacrificing for what is important to you, and making the effort to help those you love are all very strongly conveyed concepts in the story. However, there are also other lessons which prevail throughout this tale; kids will learn that might doesn't necessarily always make right, and that a good plan can often be the best way to resolve conflicts with others. Additionally, the film shines a light on what can be accomplished even by people who are often seen as small and powerless, especially when those people join together for a common cause. I think that these themes will resonate strongly with both children and parents, while at the same time, presenting such valuable lessons in a fun and engaging way.

The visuals of this film make it breathtaking to watch. From the tiniest details on each leaf of the trees in the forest, to the winsome expressions on the cute characters' faces, you can sense the love and attention to fine detail that the artists have shown. It is clear to me that this is not merely a simple family film, but a labor of love -- a gift to those who are young, or just young at heart.

Whether you are 8 years old or 80 years old, Jake and the Giants will provide you with an exciting film adventure, and a story that you and your family can cherish for generations to come.  This coming year, share Boat Angel Family Films' Jake and the Giants with someone you love!

Happiness Through Self-Discovery

A SWOT analysis is a common method for gauging the stand of a brand or business.  It stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats.  Occasionally, I enjoy doing this for myself as a personal exercise.

As we go through life, new experiences will often shape the way we see the world.  When we learn, we become better versions of ourselves.  It's vital to look inward at times, so that we can reassess ourselves.  What is important to us now?  What used to work for us, but no longer serves our greatest good?  Self-analysis can help us to not only become better people,  but to make better use of the skills and knowledge that we've acquired.

Discover what's new in your inner life.  Try new things, gain new abilities and new loves.  You may have hidden talents or skills that you've previously not discovered.  We are all treasures, so don't be afraid to dig in and find something new!

Small Business Advantage: Try New Services to Save Time & Make Money!

This article is dedicated to all of those entrepreneurs out there who are reading my blog.  I know it can be difficult out there!  But although there are bumps on the road to our ultimate prosperity, there are also shortcuts that you can take -- valuable ones.

As a businessperson myself, I can understand the importance of minimizing time spent on business research, so that I can maximize my time actually "digging in the dirt" and making profits come in.

When I say minimizing my research time, I'm not talking about cutting corners.  I still want to know as much as I can about my chosen field, as well as the competition.  But there are easier ways to do this than to sit down and spend hours scouting out other businesses.  Google helps, of course, but the internet is a much different place than it used to be when I started working in online retail in 1999!  As an eBay power seller during eBay's humble beginnings, ensuring that I offered my customers the best price was a time consuming affair; lots of hunting around for the best information made it quite an undertaking!

Fast forward to 2015.  New technological innovations have enabled sellers to have this data at their fingertips, with minimal research.  The website, JustListAway.com offers a service to sellers that ranks their products on eBay or Amazon.  This saves sellers so much time and energy!  JustListAway.com does the sourcing for the sellers, so that retailers can spend less time doing research -- and more time meeting the needs of their customers.  With this service, online retailers have the power to facilitate more sales and generate more revenue in less time.

The internet has certainly come a long way in the past 20 years. It's an exciting time to be a small online business, and it's also reassuring to know that services like these exist to help us succeed!

Winning Recipes With the Pro-Cooks Contest!

I just love contests!  But the only thing I really love more than winning a contest is cooking for family.  Nothing is more satisfying than seeing someone take a big tasty bite out of some new recipe that I've recently tried -- and loved!

enter here!

Now that I've amassed quite a good recipe collection, one thing that I love is sharing recipes and cooking tips with other people.  I love looking up recipes online, trying them out at home, and even sharing recipes with my friends.  Recipe exchanges and free recipe websites are bookmarked by me on a daily basis!

When I found out about Pro-Cooks.com and their monthly recipe contest, I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical at first.  After all, could I really win a contest from submitting a recipe?  But it's true -- regular people just like me and you are winners of this recipe contest.  What's more, not only do they celebrated over at Pro-Cooks.com, they actually win a cash prize from submitting their recipes!

The entry fee is low, and the folks over there are super friendly.  So, if you're a great cook and you're looking to make some extra money online by winning contests, give it a shot.  And whether your recipe is gluten free, vegetarian, or some other special type of recipe -- it's eligible as long as it's delicious!  Next month's winner just might be you!

Spotlight on Feng Shui Jewelry by Explosion Luck

Photo courtesy of ExplosionLuck.com

 Feng Shui is an ancient practice that can help you attract love, prosperity, and happiness into your life. Most people in the Western world consider it to be a form of spiritual interior decorating.  But, actually, it is much more than that.  Did you know that Feng Shui isn't just for your home? There are many personal items that you can use in order to practice great Feng Shui for yourself as a person.

Feng Shui jewelry is popular within Feng Shui circles. In fact, Feng Shui art provider, Explosion Luck, reports that jewelry such as Buddha thangka pendant necklaces, and other Tibetan thangka jewelry is not just great to attract positive forces around you; they're actually much more!  These beautiful, wearable works of art are also a super hot fashion statement right now, as well! Explosion Luck offers beautiful and spiritually uplifting Feng Shui jewelry and Tibetan Thangka pendant necklaces for sale -- these are true works of art that are also wearable and fashionable.

Photo courtesy of ExplosionLuck.com

While pieces like this gorgeous Vairochana pendant are hot fashion statements, they also carry spiritual and metaphysical meaning as well.  Try some levity in your life with this stunning multicolor necklace -- or go for a more monochromatic style with this orange laughing Buddha necklace.  Pieces like these, and more at Explosion Luck, are the perfect mix of spiritual and artistic.  Show your love of Feng Shui with the world through these amazing statement pieces!  They are also wonderful focal points for meditation that you can take with you anywhere -- right around your neck whenever you're ready for them.

For more information on how you can make the most love, prosperity, and good fortune happen in your life though the vibrations of these gorgeous jewelry pieces, have a look at Explosion Luck's "Best Holiday Gift Guide" for 2015-2016 Feng Shui art gifts at this link.

Spotlight on Kiko of Beverly Hills

It has been said that true beauty comes from within.  If that's really the case, I've always wondered why people seem to be so preoccupied with the way that they look?  

The real truth is this:  when we feel comfortable and happy in our own skin, our inner beauty will shimmer outward to the surface.  We have the power to change the world's perception of us, simply by changing our own perceptions of ourselves.

What's one of the first things people advise their friends to do after a breakup, the loss of a job, or some other personal tragedy?  "Change your hairstyle.  It'll do you some good." 

While this may seem like a small thing… the truth is that civilizations throughout world history have placed importance on not just what's on the top of our heads, but how we wear it.  Even today, having the right hair makes all the difference in our own levels of confidence.  A "bad hair day" can elicit the deepest of sympathies, even from strangers.  A "good hair day" can make us feel as if we've got the world at our fingertips!  It's true -- confidence equals beauty.  

My friend, Kiko of Beverly Hills California, is a shining example of this concept.  He has been part of the salon industry for over 25 years.  A lot has changed in that time: styles have changed, trends have come and gone.  Yet, there is always one thing that these elements always have in common:  they inspire confidence and happiness in those who wear them.  And Kiko loves to use his considerable talents to impart that confidence in all who seek him.

Kiko has dedicated his life to helping others of all ages, genders, and lifestyles to look and feel more lovely.  After decades of hard work and research, he has developed an amazing line of products to share with the world!  His texturizing hair wax is sure to not only make your "crowning glory" look and feel fabulous, but it also contains healthy ingredients which can actually improve the state of your hair.  His texturizing hair wax contains a virtual medicine cabinet of vitamins (A, B, and E) to provide nourishment to the hair, as well as Indian gooseberry, a long-known holistic treatment for strengthening and preventing daily damage to hair.  Proteins and amino acids in Kiko's "Leeya" formula keep your hair strong, shiny, and ready for anything -- whether you're walking a fashion runway, or just want to look fabulous while running your daily errands.

I truly admire Kiko, both for his passion for creating workable, livable art that his clients can enjoy in themselves every day -- as well as for his visions of a more beautiful future.

To learn more about Kiko and his Leeya line of hair beautifying products, visit his website or You can also enjoy more of Kiko's creations at his amazing YouTube channel -- and his inspiring Instagram profile, as well!

Spotlight on Abhijit S. Kulkarni of Reliable Solutions

Abhijit Kulkarni has recently been presented with an Award of Achievement in the category of Business, as our choice for Forex Trader of the Year (Asia). He is a professional forex trader, fund manager and analyst, as well as a passionate entrepreneur. Abhijit is a unique individual, set apart from the crowd through his not just his passion for the work that he does, but also the generosity he has shown in teaching and guiding others in order to improve the forex trading community.

Ahijit’s firm, Reliable Solutions Limited, prides itself on being geared toward providing education for effective trading on a global scale, as well as developing platforms which are geared specifically toward management and education. Abhijit has designed his firm to be a unique entity, as it is the first unique brokerage which deals exclusively with the customer's interest.

However, he was not always the successful businessman that he is now. Due to economic changes throughout India, from where Abhijit originates, opportunities for advancement were not always readily available. In his earlier years, young Abhijit pursued his dreams of becoming an animator; however, once he discovered the basics of forex trading, Abhijit's interest in this profession grew into a true passion for the work. 

Despite the difficult conditions in his home country for forex market, Abhijit persevered, tenaciously educating himself in the finer points of forex trading and always seeking success. The idea for Reliable Solutions came about 7 years ago, when Abhijit first got into the forex trading field. After extensive research, Abhijit set out to discover why so many traders have struggled to succeed. A realization that the forex trading market lacked honesty and transparency in its education,  Abhijit Kulkarni set out to change the field. His pioneering spirit has truly revolutionized the field of forex trading and how its education is dispensed to forex newcomers who are looking to gain information.

We are proud to present this Award of Achievement to Abhijit Kulkarni for his relentless pursuit of success, as well as his devotion to helping others toward achieving their own goals.

Congratulations, Abhijit!  And thanks again for all that you do!

You Will Never Be Perfect

Yes, I know the title of this message is pretty harsh!  But it's true.  When you strive for physical perfection, you should realize that you will never actually BE perfect.

I'm not saying that you shouldn't have goals and dreams -- you should.  That's healthy.  But the moment you begin to fixate on that number on the scale, or that perfect hair color, or that ideal clothing size, know that your goals will change the moment you achieve it.

Why?  It's because as humans, we're always conditioned to want more.  We might think that there's one magical solution to all of our problems, but the truth is that when we find that solution... we simply come up with a new set of problems.

Strive instead of health.  Excerise because it feels great, it's good for your body, and it releases endorphins which can lead to greater happiness and clarity of thought.  Take joy in your body and all the things it can do.  Eat healthy food that you love.  Appreciate where you are right now.

My Lucky Bingo Mat

From time to time, when I see a product or service that is truly beneficial, I love sharing it with my readers and followers.  Since so many of you love the thrill that come with games of chance, I wanted to share with you my thoughts about a cool product that I've recently learned about.  It's called My Lucky Bingo Mat, and it's a real game changer!

I have no doubt that many of you love Bingo as much as I do! (After all, even psychic sages need their downtime to hang with the ladies & let off some steam!)  However, there are a few things that have actually kept me away from my favorite Monday night haunt (Club Cafe's Bingo night!).  Simply put, there are issues involving "turf wars."  People like to spread out and crowd one another, which means I have to go early and try really hard not to sit near any known offenders.

My Lucky Bingo Mat has changed that problem for me.  Now my personal space is well defined, and since the mat is non-slip silicone, it stays right where I put it rather than scooting around and accidentally crowding anyone else.  This feature is actually just a bonus for its intended use:  The non-slip fabrication means that your cards stay right where you put them without having to waste time and tape.  All you need to do is lay your cards right onto the mat, and enjoy yourself -- presto, no muss and no fuss!  The silicone mat has plenty of room for your little extras (like daubers and lucky charms), and is easy to care for too; should you spill your latte while jumping up to yell "BINGO!," the surface needs only a quick wipe to be as good as new!

Recently, I bought one for a good friend of mine who is disabled.  Bingo is one of the things that she still enjoys quite a lot, but since she suffers from neuropathy and arthritis, she doesn't get out as much as she used to.  (I never mind taping her cards for her, but I know she hates to ask!)  I think she's going to be delighted with her very own My Lucky Bingo Mat, in her signature lucky color -- red!

To all of you who are ready to ditch the tape and focus on fun: I highly recommend this product!  Go to their website to learn more. :)