Sacred Sound

Baked Apples with Honey

2010-08-31T17:46:00.000-07:00

Here is an amazing recipe from Alan and Denise Thornhill taken from the September issue of The Whole Person Magazine. Enjoy!

Ingredients

6 firm medium to large apples (Macintosh, Red Delicious, or Pippins)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 Tablespoon milk or cream
1/2 cup raw, unfiltered honey
1/2 cup chopped rosadted walnuts, unsalted
1/2 cup chopped raisins
1 Teaspoon ground cinnamon
boiling water

Lets go!

Preheat oven to 350.
Core the apples, leaving the skins intact.
Mix or beat ricotta with milk or cream and 1/4 of the honey.
Add in Raisins and 1/4 of the walnuts.
Stuff center of apples and place in a shallow backing pan (glassware is good!)
Add 1/2 inch of boiling water to the pan.
Bake in the center of the oven for 20 minutes, then drizzle with the remaining honey, and the rest of the walnuts.
Bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until apples have reached the desired softness and before walnuts are burnt.

Bone appetit!

Schedule of Performers for Topanga Earth Day!

2010-04-15T18:33:00.000-07:00

Topanga Earth Days!

2010-04-14T10:27:00.000-07:00

I am so excited for the 11th Annual Topanga Earth Day Festival this weekend!

"The 11th annual Topanga Earth Day festival, a 90 percent waste-free non-profit event, will unify people from around the world in celebration and promotion of ecological awareness, cultural respect, and music on Saturday, April 17, from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., through Sunday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Set in Topanga Canyon, Los Angeles’ original conscious-living community, the festival will give attendees the unique opportunity to learn about a variety of sustainable and holistic-living solutions through guest speakers and workshops, a healing village and ecological vendors who are “living by example”."

I feel very blessed to have been asked to facilitate a
Sound Bath/Sound Healing experience on
Saturday, April 17th at 12:45pm.
You can view the invite on Facebook : Sacred Sound

Here are the details:

Experience the PEACE of sound and sound healing.

Experience your Body, Mind, and Spirit as WHOLE.

Experience yourself as a BALANCED and HEALTHY being.

Jaqueline Marie provides a beautiful soundscape to journey into Self.
This one hour sound bath will attune the Chakras (energy centers), free stagnant energy in the meridians, and encourage the listener to tap into Alpha brain wave patterns, opening the gateways to creativity and genius.

The suggested Donation is $20
ALL are welcome!

Later in the afternoon I will also be offering a
Couples Yoga Class at 2:45pm
with the very talented Hatha Yoga teacher, Geoffrey Earendil.
You can view the invitation on facebook: Couples Tantra Yoga

Here are the details:

Join Jaqueline Marie and Geoffrey Earendil for a heart-centered, fun, and playful yoga experience.

This Partner Tantra Yoga class is appropriate for ALL levels, from novice to skilled yogi.

Partner Yoga is two or more people joining together to deepen the impact and experience of a yoga practice.

The word Tantra essentially means to weave, and the core of its philosophy is using everything that we relate to as the part of the path.

Partner Yoga holds the philosophy of using relationship as a tool for awakening to our true nature.

Come and play with a friend, a lover, a family member, your neighbor, whomever!

Suggested Donation: $20
ALL are welcome!

I look forward to seeing you this weekend!

Crazymaking

2010-04-06T19:41:00.000-07:00

Theatre for the Claremont Colleges, Pomona College Department of Theatre and Dance presents the world premiere of: Crazymaking!

Crazymaking follows the character Casana Lee, from her dreams of being a rock star in 1980s Los Angeles to her destiny as a teacher and healer in her native Hawai’i. The play begins with Casana trying to gain celebrity, but failing at using her own voice. When an unexpected series of encounters return her to her family roots in Hawai’i, Casana uncovers how the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893 continues to impact her life. As she slowly learns to trust her ‘aumakua, they lead her to back and forth between the dream world and her waking life in order to heal her past and find her true voice.

Playwright C. Mamo Kim, Ph.D. holds a doctorate in Political Science from the University of Hawai’i at M`anoa (UHM). She was the first publicly identified Native Hawaiian student in the history of UHM who became president of both the Associated Students and the Graduate Student Organization of UHM and was instrumental in many of the actions that furthered decolonization of the university including the implementation of a new vision and strategic plan (2002-2010) and the founding of Hawaiinuiakea School of Hawaiian Knowledge, one of the largest schools of indigenous knowledge in the nation.

Crazymaking chronicles the main character’s journey to: come to terms with the abuse in her life that stems from the violence of colonization; to find herself, her connection to spirit, and her purpose in life. The figure of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire, figures prominently in the story, because she is an ancestor of Kim’s and, as Kim points out, “Pele is a huge Hawaiian female archetype. . .everyone should have a bit of Pele in them but especially for women, that aspect has been conditioned out of us. Pele is your spark of life. That spark is all you have. Everybody has a right to that spark. You have a right to be in our integrity and your power. You have to honor the Pele in you.”

Joyce Lu, Ph.D. directs this production of Crazymaking in collaboration with Kumu Hula Keoni Chang of Chino Hills’ Halau Na Pua Lehua I Ka Ua Noe.

Crazymaking features three young dancers from this Halau who play the parts of Pele, Hi’iaka, and Kamapua’a.

Live sound created by sound healer, and vibrational coach Jaqueline Marie.

Topanga Music - Fernwood

2010-03-29T14:05:00.000-07:00

Tucked away in the picturesque mountains towering above the Pacific ocean Topanga Canyon attracts artists of all kinds, each adding their own unique vibration. I've been delighted to discover Fernwood, the eclectic and inspirational music creation of Todd Montgomery and Gayle Ellett.

The duo have released two albums,"Almeria" and "Sangita" which have gained recognition worldwide. Their acoustic, cinematic compositions take the listener on an epic journey colored by the traditional instrumental sounds of Morocco, India, Greece, Turkey, China, and Italy, to name a few.

Theirs is the kind of music one can sail away on. It swirls and flows in unexpected and delightful harmonies. While painting, free writing, or journaling it provides the perfect sound scape to entice and encourage creativity.

You can preview and purchase their music on CD Baby here: Fernwood

Radio:
Fernwood's music can be heard locally on KCRW-FM
throughout the country on National Public Radio and ECHOES Radio,
internationally on RADIO CENTRAAL

Reviews:

"This month's Spotlight is a beautiful acoustic based track featuring a combination of instruments that we rarely hear. While the writing, arranging and performances are of the highest order, it is the blend of the various instruments in the mix that really makes "Open Seas" something special to our ears. Gayle and Todd have skillfully managed to combine numerous stringed instruments, many with competing frequency ranges, into an open, airy mix that leaves space for each individual sound source, while maintaining a full cohesive feel, free of artifact and digital "nasties." Relax and enjoy! Well done! Highly Recomended"
~ RECORDING Magazine

"Using only instruments made of wood, Todd Montgomery and Djam Karet's Gayle Ellett blend Old-World and contemporary musical styles on their new all-acoustic project Fernwood. This colorful sonic palette results in Almeria, a remarkably cohesive and compelling debut record. Peaceful but never dull... the duo's sophisticated arrangements and deft touch on a variety of instruments bring songs with vivid titles like "Open Seas" and "Hungarian Holiday" to life."
"Progressive" in the purest sense of the term."
~SEA OF TRANQUILITY

Sound And Presence

2010-02-27T17:34:00.000-08:00

Recently I facilitated a workshop at the Claremont Colleges. The students were preparing for an art performance piece that will include toning and chant as part of the production. I was invited to demonstrate the power and depth of these ancient modalities, and to teach the young men and women how to FEEL their emotions and BE in their bodies both on stage and in everyday life.

The workshop consisted of two parts. The first portion was an experiential sound bath created with crystal bowls and voice. To hear a sample of the music created click here: Sound

The second half included instruction on correct vocal placement, proper breathing, and body awareness. For many of these young adults it was their first time chanting and it was really difficult to create sound (be heard) in a group. It was beautiful to watch them support and encourage each other.

Here are some photos:

Working with the youth is always an amazing experience. I'm continuously blown away by the wisdom reflected back to me in their open approach and unbiased attitude to experience something new. There is no comparison to witnessing a person tap into their power and experience their greatness.

I hope we can all learn to be more like children.

To inquire about workshops, performances, or one on one sessions you may email me at Sacred.Sound@Live.com

To See As God Sees

2010-02-25T11:41:00.000-08:00

Meister Echkart is one of history's great mystics. He was a Catholic monk and scholar who lived from 1260 to 1328.
In his own words,

To SEE AS God Sees

It is your destiny to see as God sees,
to know as God knows,
to feel as God
feels.

How is it possible? How?
Because divine love cannot defy its very self.

Divine love will be eternally true o its owns being,
and its being is giving all it can,
at the perfect
moment.

And the greatest gift
God can give is Her own experience.

Every objedt, every creature, every man, woman and child
has a soul and it is the destiny of all,

to see as God sees, to know as God knows,
to feel as God feels, to Be
as God
Is.

Brilliant Video!

2010-02-09T19:31:00.000-08:00

Valentines Yoga!

2010-02-08T10:37:00.000-08:00

I would like to invite you to join my partner and I for an amazing Yoga for Couples workshop on Valentines day.
If you've never experienced yoga before this is a great introduction, and if you're a seasoned yogi, this is a fantastic way to share your practice with someone special.
Come move, laugh and love with your honey!

YOGA FOR VALENTINES DAY!

Asana for Couples and the Yoga of Intimacy
with Jaqueline Marie & Geoffrey Earendil

This Heart Centered workshop is appropriate for ALL levels. You and your partner will be guided through a sequence of sweet stretches and strengthening poses with gentle touch and mutual encouragement.

Incorporating guided imagery, simple meditations and focused intention we will introduce you to practical techniques to improve communication, build trust, deepen sensitivity and strengthen your heart connection to begin sharing the journey of Spiritual Self-Discovery.

No prior yoga experience is necessary. Dress comfortably. Please refrain from wearing jewelery and perfume. As with all physical activity, we encourage you to not eat an hour before participation.

Date: February 14, 2010
Time: 3pm-5pm
Location: Aanand Saagar Yoga
1318 2nd St #21 Santa Monica

Cost: By Donation, $25 per couple suggested.

RSVP: by Friday February 12th, 2010
Call: (760) 220-4877 or (805) 453-5878

http://www.tribe.net

Raja Yoga

2010-02-01T19:21:00.000-08:00

Image via Wikipedia

I was asked again today if I was a yoga teacher. Just like every time before my "rational" mind freaked out and my nerves got the best of me. Having never taken the traditional yoga teacher training the voice in my head yells, "You're not qualified!".

I forget that Yoga is more then just an asana, or physical practice. I forget that I've been a dedicated student to the path for over 4 years and have studied the art of stillness with reputable spiritual teachers from multiple cultures. I forget I have helped countless numbers of people start their own meditation practice and transform their lives.

Why do I place such value on a piece of paper?

It frustrates me that I fall victim to social pressure to achieve some kind of standardized goal to validate myself. It saddens me that I doubt myself because I have not taken the path laid out in the rule book.

I was expressing my dismay at not knowing how to answer the question,"Are you a yoga teacher?" when my partner, an amazing yogi who has been teaching Hatha Yoga for over 10 years, stopped me mid sentence and proclaimed, "Are you kidding me? You teach Raja Yoga!"

Allow me to set the record straight: In all my years of travel and study I have NEVER heard of Raja Yoga! Not one soul, nor one book had ever mentioned ANYTHING about Raja Yoga. Now perhaps I've just been reading the wrong books (sorry Eckhart Tolle, Barbara Martin, Hafiz, Rumi, and Hazrat Inayat Khan), but I was sincerely shocked to learn I was practicing a "legitimate" Yoga and had no idea.

Raja Yoga, which translates into "Royal Union" or "Royal Yoga", is the Yoga of the mind. It is the art of meditation. Raja Yoga meditation is generally based on directing one's life force to bring the mind and the emotions so into balance that the attention may be easily focused on the object of meditation - the union of Divinity and Self. In the words of Swami Satchidananda,

"Every thought, feeling, perception, or memory you may have causes a modification, or ripple, in the mind. It distorts and colors the mental mirror. If you can restrain the mind from forming into modifications, there will be no distortion, and you will experience your true Self."

Raja Yoga is the INNER work. While other yoga practices tonify and purify the body, Raja Yoga tonifies and purifies the mind. In order to truly raise ones vibration BOTH an inner and an outer practice are necessary.

You would think with all the dedicated Yogis in LA, Raja Yoga would be right up there with Hatha, Ashtanga, Bikram, and Power.

Why isn't it? Good question...

It is my absolute passion and pleasure to practice, and share the practice of Raja Yoga.
Now when someone asks me, "Are you a Yoga teacher?", I'm going to answer whole heartily, "Why, Yes I am!"

*If you would like to learn more about Raja Yoga and meditation, you may contact me at JaquelineMarie.com

Little Miracles

2010-01-31T15:47:00.000-08:00

The sun was setting over Topanga Canyon as I took this shot. The entire mountainside was ablaze with a purple, pink glow; twilight descended hushed and unhurried. In a moment of inspiration I zoomed into the house and grabbed my camera. When I returned to the terrace I realized that no matter how I positioned myself something was blocking my view. Wanting to get the "perfect" picture I proceeded to run, crawl, climb, squat, bend, and tiptoe in every which direction in the hopes of finding a clearing. Very unlike the graceful twilight, I bumbled and mumbled (ok lets be honest, I cursed) under my breath, and after what felt like forever nearly gave up in total disgusted failure.

And then I saw the star.

The glow of the setting sun on the colored glass sent a million little sparkles of light dancing. Once aware of the sparkles, I began to see them everywhere - on the fence, in the windows, on the roof, on the floor, in the hot tub- and inside each sparkle was a perfect miniature reflection of the sunset itself. Surrounded by the endless mirroring of the little miracle I realized that what I had approached as a hindrance, an obstacle to overcome, was actually a gift. What was "in my way" was essentially providing me with a different perspective, one which reflected the interconnectedness of life and showed me the "worlds within the world".

In that moment the Sun and the Star met, and I, the awe struck observer, was changed.

I took this picture in Topanga Canyon.
I feel it captures a simple truth beautifully -

"We are limited, not by our abilities, but by our vision."

If you changed your point of view, how would you see the world differently?

Life Is Music

2010-01-27T13:39:00.000-08:00

There are moments when I loose myself completely in music. All thought vanishes and I am nothing but FEELING. My mind quiets. My eyes close. My breath deepens and, together with my pounding heart, creates an intoxicating rhythm.

These are the moments I know I am alive.

Music moves me.

Over the weekend I attended a party in the Malibu hills. The location was secrete, hidden deep in the winding mountain side. In the ancient canyon we gathered in the name of love, awakening, community, growth, music.

I was the guest of my good friend U-Recken. He is a brilliant Israeli based DJ who's music I was introduced to while living in Europe. Though we've spoken for over two years, we had never met.

Music bonded us.

The party was for Denny, a woman who discovered Yaniv's music while in Peru. As she danced on the slopes of Machu Picchu to his "Blue Planetary Hand", an old Peruvian woman climbed up the mountain and gifted her with a hand woven garment depicting a woman achieving enlightenment.
Denny flew home, contacted Yaniv, introduced herself and told him her story.
"Blue Planetary Hand" is Yaniv's Mayan astrology sign. There was no coincidence.

Music spoke to them.

Yaniv told Denny about me and arranged for us to meet.
After meeting Denny it became clear to both she and I that we've known each other before.
Denny brought Yaniv to California to perform at her birthday party.
And then Denny, Yaniv, and I were together.

Music connected us.

There is a flow to life. There in an interconnection so subtle and sweet. There is a rhythm. There is a pulse. And when we are open, there is harmony.

Music IS the universal language.
How will you communicate?

Lifebook for 2010

2010-01-11T08:13:00.000-08:00

Health:

1. Drink plenty of water

2. Eat breakfast like a Queen, lunch like a princess and dinner like a servant

3. Eat more foods that grow from the earth.

4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy

5. Make time for giving thanks - gratitude generates grace!

6. Develop (and stick to!) a fitness plan - your confidence will soar!

7. Make a commitment to enrich your life by reading at least 3 books

8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day

9. Give yourself at least 7 hours of sleep

10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk every day ---- and while you walk, smile

Personality:

11. Choose to embody your inner Goddess - you are divine!

12. Invest your energy in the positive present moment

13. One step at a time. Don't overdo ; pace yourself and have patience

14. Don't take yourself so seriously!

15. Gossip is a waste of energy - Generate good karma with your words!

16. Dream more while you are awake

17. Indulge your inner child - Play more!

18. Bless your past - the lessons you've learned are gifts to share with others

19. Forgive. Forgive. Forgive.

20. You are exactly where you need to be - Don't compare your life to others'

21. Your happiness is in your hands - you can CHOOSE to be happy

22. Problems are OPPORTUNITIES to create a new reality

23. Smile and laugh more

24. Diversity makes life beautiful - EMBRACE WHO YOU ARE!

Community:

25. Call your family often

26. Give the gift of yourself - your time, your acknowledgment, your help

27. Forgive everyone for everything

28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6

29. Share a smile with strangers daily

30. Volunteer

31. Connect from the heart; create a lovingly community - it starts with you!

Life:

32. Believe in miracles, for YOU are one

33. Purify your life of everything that does not serve your highest purpose

34. Experience life! Travel, try new things, create!

35. Make no assumptions - approach everything with an open heart and clear mind

36. Dare to be original

37. If you've given your best, you have everything to be proud of

38. Celebrate each day - life is a gift!

39. Follow your heart. Let your intuition be your guide

Last but not the least :

40. Honor yourself! Love yourself!

Tis The Season...

2009-12-12T12:02:00.000-08:00

Giving Thanks

2009-11-25T17:37:00.001-08:00

In tribute to the Thanksgiving holiday I am making a list of all the things I am grateful for.
Enjoy!

I am thankful for:

my life
my mother's amazing laugh
my father's hugs
Lauren's yucky dance
the way Vanessa always makes me feel like a lady.
my voice
the inside jokes I share with Justin, and the way we can just be ourselves.
dancing until dawn
the talks I share with John about life that always inspire me to greatness.
Celeste's crazy stories and amazing costumes
Hawaii
my Grandmother's constant support and encouragement
the fact that Alexis and I will always be best friends, no matter where we find ourselves in the world
the time I spent in Europe, learning how to love myself
the way my cousin Kent says, "Cuzzzz"
Barry and his sweet passion for his cause
the ocean
my friends Lisa and Jade and the example they set for me on how to live life freely
belly laughing
Jamo. How I love Jamo. ((Be safe over there!))
Hafiz and Rumi poetry
My amazing friend Joe...even though he has passed on he continues to be one of the greatest influences in my life
brownies
Nathans love
my cousins Kimmy's sense of style
the time I spent with Sion
Uncle Robs tattoos ((but dont get any more!))
the memory of running and laughing through the street of Paris in the rain
Weenie!
the connection I share with Roy
my friends Scott and Teri and their awesome adventures
my faith and positive attitude
Roger and his boat
Stijn - one day we WILL do a festival!
Marie's haircut - rock it girl
the ring Bella gave me
sunsets
sunrises
my relationship with the wind
the goose bumps I still get when I hear, "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"
Eva Cassidy
the opportunity to share my music with the world
Barbara Martin and Dimitri - you have changed my life
my roomie Jason ((I love our home!))
soccer
home cooked meals
rice milk
painting
my family - I seriously have the best family in the world
hiking
swings
the opportunity to record with Joel and the amazing friendship that is blooming
sitting side by side with Bonnie
my shenanigans with Jonathan Kaplan
Kelly's friendship
story time with Lou
meditation
the time I spent wit Robert - RIP
learning from Amanollah
yoga
the change of the seasons
essential oils
my health
Geoffrey. Geoffrey. Geoffrey.
the chance to experience and give unconditional love
for every soul I have ever encountered - I am who I am today because of you

These are just a few of the things I am thankful for.
Go ahead, make your own list.
It's a beautiful gift to give yourself.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Discover Rabia

2009-11-23T19:34:00.000-08:00

An excerpt from the book, Love Poems from God by Daniel Ladinsky.

Rabia

"Rabia of Basra (c. 717-801) is without doubt the most popular and influential of female Islamic saints and a central figure in the Sufi tradition. She was born nearly five hundred years before Rumi, and although it is rarely said, she, perhaps more then any other poet, influenced his writings.

The sensuousness of Rabia's poetry may be a bit shocking to some, though it was probably more so in its original. Even conservative scholarly translations cannot get around its, at times, graphic eroticism. Many myths surround her life and poems, but one has been recently confirmed - while Rabia was quite young she became separated from her parents and while wandering homeless, she was stolen and sold into prostitution. She was forced to work as one might in a brothel for many years.
She wrote, "What a place for trials and transformation did my Lover put me, but never once did He look upon me as if I were impure. Dear sisters, all we do in the world, whatever happens, is bringing us closer to God."

Rabia may be a timely spiritual voice for women of this century, especially for any woman (or man) who has had to suffer the emotionally crippling degradation of unwanted touch. She was both physically and sexually abused from an early age, yet still became on of the greatest women saints-and poets-known to history."

If you have not yet experienced the extasy of Rabia's poetry, it is my profound honor to expose you to it now. If you are familiar with Rabia, I hope you fall in love with her all over again.

The Perfect Stillness

Love is
the perfect stillness
and the greatest excitement, and most profound act,
and the word almost as complete
as His name.

Dedicated to I and I

2009-11-22T18:46:00.001-08:00

Cover via Amazon

Someone very dear to me recently gifted me with a book that is changing my life. It is impacting me in such a profound way that I wish to share it with all of you in the hopes that it too will touch your hearts and help encourage you to bloom.

The title of the book is,
Love Poems from God,
Twelve Sacred Voices from the East and West
by Daniel Ladinsky.

The back cover reads:
In both eastern and western spiritual traditions, it is believed that certain mystics and saints receive a gift from God that make them poetic conduits of the divine, bearers of "love poems from God."
Twelve of these timeless spiritual poets, six from the East and six from the West, are beautifully presented in this inspiration volume. Daniel Ladinsky, best known for his gifted translations of the great Sufi poet Hafiz, brings his art to this rich and luminous collection. These fresh, innovative, and playful versions provide a meaningful way to celebrate ourselves and our world.

I will go poem by poem.
And together we will be seduced by the Love Poems from God.

Rabia

When God said, "my hands are yours,"
I saw that I could heal any creature in this world;

I saw that the divine beauty in each heart
is the root of all time
and space.

Ahhhhh!

2009-11-22T17:07:00.000-08:00

This transition period is HUGE.
It seems collectively we have decided on a soul level to face our darkness. Whether we want to our not our world is forcing us to stop and take accountability. For me personally, I feel like all my issues are staring me in the face demanding my attention. NOW. As in RIGHT NOW.

I'm overwhelmed. I'm stressed. I'm anxious. I'll admit it - I'm fearful.
Simultaneously I'm excited and hopeful.
There is an urgency that I did not feel before.
The call to action has been sounded in my mind, my emotions, my body!

No matter how I try to distract myself, I'm unable to silence the sound of my truth. It reverberates in every pore of my body, pushing and bursting to be let out. Anything I do that is not in accordance with my higher self or my soul purpose is beginning to cause actual, physical discomfort. For example, this week at work I had to call people on the phone to try to get them to register for an upcoming event. Every single time a person picked up the phone I would loose my voice and begin to cough! The second I would hang up, I would be fine. FINE. The moment I would pick up the phone again - BOOM! Coughing, chocking, and actual pain in my esophagus.

My intention for this weekend was to sit down and map out a plan to get me out of my current situation. Have you heard the expression, "When we make plans, God laughs"? Well, God must be having one heck of a rip-roaring time watching me and my escapades. All of my well planned plans have gone to crap. Thankfully God blessed me with her sense of humor and I'm just exasperated enough to be laughing right along beside her.

I've come no closer to mapping out an escape route. I have no idea what I'm going to do. I know what I want to do, I just don't know how to MAKE it happen.
So I'm going to stop pushing. I'm going to stop letting my rational mind drive me insane with its need to control, to fix, to plan...

I just had an "Ah-ha!" moment. I know exactly what I'm going to do:

Every day I am going to take a step forward, in faith, and put myself out there. I'm going to open to receive and SHOW the universe I'm ready. I cant control what others do, but I can choose to take peaceful action. What is peaceful action? Taking action that is inspired by love and happiness.

I'm going to email all the wonderful people who have given me their cards because they loved my music, and say "thank you!".
I'm going to get together with my producer to just talk and laugh and PLAY with music.
I'm going to contact different venues and OFFER myself in the spirit of SERVICE.
AND I'm going to volunteer to play my music at either a hospital, or a recovery center.
....

wow.
...

I feel great! Seriously, I feel a million times better. I feel, dare I say it, empowered!
Funny, the second I let go and let God, everything becomes more clear.
How's that for a non-plan!

This is love...

2009-11-20T22:10:00.000-08:00

This is love:
to fly toward a secret sky,
to let go and just live.

To take a step without thought of feet.

~Rumi

Lotus

2009-11-19T23:14:00.000-08:00

Image via Wikipedia

I dig meditation. I dig chant. Having been raised Catholic I have an affinity for incense and robes...
So naturally I'm a fan of Buddhism. However, its only since moving to Los Angeles that I've heard of Nichiren Buddhism.

Tonight I attended a Nichiren Buddhist meeting as the guest of the SGI-USA's Young Women's Divison leader, Vinessa. Having learned my forte was sound, Vinessa has been eager to expose me to her spiritual practice. We gathered at a members home and chanted Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo, the chant Nichiren Buddhists practice and repeat day and night in order to achieve enlightenment, or Buddhahood.

The meaning of Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo is broken down as such:

Nam – derived from the Sanskrit word “Namas” which means “to devote oneself.”
Myoho – “mystic law”
Renge – literally translates into “lotus flower" referring to the Lotus Sutra Nichiren Buddhism is founded upon.
Kyo – “teaching” and secondly, “sound.”

As I am learning, this chant is the backbone of the Nichiren practice, as is the principle of cause and effect.

Tonight's topic of discussion was Karma. Having just finished my metaphysics class on karma earlier this afternoon, I found the "coincidence" humorous and totally fitting.

It was fascinating to sit and listen to the Buddhist's view of Karma. In Nichiren Buddhism, the members believe they can eradicate their karma completely by chanting Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo. By doing so they feel they are directly taping into the universal life force that connects all things, and with this connection they are able to directly influence the past, present, and future.

For me, it was great fun. Sitting in a room of chanting souls is POWERFUL.
AND there was really yummy food.

Am I going to sign up? No.
But then again, if Catholicism cant pin me down, what can?

What I am going to do is incorporate the chant into my own unique tapestry of spirituality and see what happens.

After all, I could use a little more lotus in my life.

Magic Flute

2009-11-18T17:58:00.000-08:00

One Regret

2009-11-18T13:19:00.000-08:00

"One regret, dear world,
That I am determined not to have
When I am lying on my deathbed
Is that I did not kiss you enough."

— Hafiz

Laughing At the Word Two

2009-11-15T13:53:00.000-08:00

Laughing At the Word Two

Only

That Illumined

One

Who keeps

Seducing the formless into form

Had the charm to win my

Heart.

Only a Perfect One

Who is always

Laughing at the word

Two

Can make you know

Love.

~Hafiz

From: 'The Gift'

Translated by Daniel Ladinsky

Joshua Tree

2009-11-13T10:12:00.000-08:00

Image by Rennett Stowe via Flickr

I've found myself in Joshua Tree
Captivated by a wee Bodhi
just beginning the journey of life.

This one is no stranger to the path.

Timelessness surrounds and radiates
seducing the heart instantly,
and I am forever in love.

Yes, I've journeyed to Joshua Tree
to discover that which was calling me
deep in the the depths of my core.

Here, I've found the tree in need of watering.
And I have just the nectar.

By Jaqueline Marie

The Swing

2009-11-13T09:59:00.000-08:00

Image by ""Alia"" (busy) via Flickr

My feet, once firmly on the ground, hover weightless.

Slowly, the world begins to move.

Back and forth. Back and forth. Back and forth.

My body pumps in time.

Strong. Beautiful. Free.

The sky reaches down to touch me, delighted in my pursuit of its glory.

The playful wind rushes up to help me.

Yes, in the wind I have always found a friend.

Back and forth. Up and down.

Up and down. Back and forth.

The pull and push of flight.

I've found my rhythm.

~Jaqueline Marie

How to Cure a Cold Naturally | eHow.com

2009-10-27T15:17:00.000-07:00

How to Cure a Cold Naturally | eHow.com

Osho

2009-10-18T17:09:00.001-07:00

Innocence means childlike wonder, awe.
The enlightened person is one who is constantly wondering-
because he knows nothing,
so everything becomes again a mystery.
When you know,
things are demystified;
when you don't know,
they are RE-mystified.

As the world once again become unfamiliar I remember the words of Osho, and I am comforted. My feelings of dismay are transformed; hope and possibility take root in my heart and I can breath.

My not knowing is a blessing. My uncertainty is a gift, a starting point from which to grow.

I will not let fear or sadness paralyze me. I will journey forward with the spirit of a child.
Thank you creator for this opportunity.
Thank you for this awesome world.

Purple Trees

2009-10-17T17:04:00.000-07:00

Image by Zach_ManchesterUK via Flic

Ancient, enchanted, purple trees
create an amethyst canopy
and cast the world in lavender glow.

Purple trees selflessly dust the ground with colorful down, painting the world in petals.

Purple trees whisper of childhood memories, and my heart is made whole again.

by JaquelineMarie

The Yoga of Healing

2009-10-13T17:07:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I had a breakthrough.

While co-facilitating a workshop on the Chakras I transcended an internal barrier and made an awesome discovery -

I have been existing outside of my body.

My colleague Amanollah was teaching the class about the art of Observation. In an exercise designed to awaken the senses he asked everyone to close their eyes and FEEL the texture of their clothing on their skin. Although I'm familiar with the different observation tools, I decided to open full heartily to the exercise and participate in it as if for the first time.

I closed my eyes... and the bottom of my world fell out.

I couldn't feel my clothes! No matter what I did or how I concentrated I could not feel my clothes on my skin. My head was swimming with words, overflowing with adjectives describing what my clothes should feel like, but there was no actual sensation.

I couldn't believe it, but I couldn't deny it. With eyes closed I took an inventory of my life and saw with absolute clarity that I had been separating my physical experience from my mental experience.
For example, when I would see the color RED I would instantly mentally associate the color with words like energizing, Root Chakra, vitality and so on. I would even get a clear mental picture, which I would pat myself on the back for, but at no time was I actually FEELING energized, or revitalized.

In a matter of moments my life transformed. I became completely aware of the fact that I have been existing solely in my head. My perception, which I had thought to be well rounded, has been all mental. I have been naming and categorizing all of my experiences, not EXPERIENCING them.

This awakening is MONUMENTAL!
For the first time in years I am FEELING my emotions, and sensations, not merely naming them.

I feel like a child. I am experiencing everything for the first time...

For The Love of Cupcakes

2009-10-10T13:37:00.000-07:00

Tonight is a new friends birthday and he loves red velvet cupcakes. More specifically, he loves red velvet cupcakes from Sprinkles. In fact, when I asked his brother what I should get him, I was told that was the ONLY desert the birthday boy enjoys.

Fine. Sprinkles it is. Now, I'm new to LA, but I figured acquiring a cupcake in this city would be fairly simple.

I had no idea what I was getting myself into.

I arrive in Beverly Hills with the traffic, the lookie-loo's, the hustle and bustle and by the grace of God find a parking spot a couple of blocks down from the store. As I approach the address I see a huge line of people extending around the block. I assumed the crowd was for some kind of event, perhaps a fancy Holly Wood opening or something. Wrong. The massive line of stylish people was for Sprinkles!

I was seriously shocked - All these people were waiting in line for cupcakes??!! My instant thought was "Everyone in LA is crazy". And then I took my place at the back of the line.

I've mentioned before that its hard for me to admit my flaws, but being honest is a key part of this whole transformation I'm undergoing. So I'll go ahead and admit it - I don't wait in lines. Waiting in line makes me feel lame and uncomfortable, unimportant and common. My little ego shrieks at lines...

For 3o minutes my ego shrieked. When the double-decker bus with all the Holly Wood tourists stopped to take pictures of us standing there like sardines I wanted to die. When the bus driver began to comment and poke fun of us over the loud speaker I did die.

By the time I made it into the store I was thoroughly humiliated. I wanted to get the dang cupcake and get out. Nope. I proceeded to wait another 15 minutes while the smiling workers behind the counter scurried to get a special order for an apparently very important woman in pearls.

It was then that I busted out laughing. It finally occurred to me how absolutely hilarious the entire situation was. My total discomfort, the tourist bus, the women in $500 dollar heals waiting for icing was priceless!

Realizing the ridiculousness of it all, especially the absurdity of my discomfort, totally changed my attitude. With a smile I ordered not one, but 4 red velvet cupcakes, and when the peppy girl behind the counter apologized for the long wait I sincerely replied it was no problem.

My friend is going to love his gift.
And thanks to his sweet tooth I learned to not take myself so seriously.

Here's to a great night!

Quote of the Day

2009-10-09T11:16:00.000-07:00

Image by SJ Jagadeesh via Flickr

"When we align our thoughts, emotions, and actions with the highest part of ourselves,
we are filled with enthusiasm, purpose, and meaning.

Life is rich and full.
We have no thoughts of bitterness.
We have no memory of fear.
We are joyously and intimately engaged with our world.

This is the experience of authentic power."

~Gary Zukav

Image by SJ Jagadeesh via Flickr

I am woman.

2009-10-06T23:18:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, October 6th, 2009:

I am changed.Yes, tonight has changed my life.

My heart is soaring. God has blessed me beyond imagination. I've been shedding tears of gratitude and joy since the moment I walked in the door. What has moved me so? Women.

Tonight I had the absolute pleasure of keeping company with, and singing for, 60 fascinating women. We gathered in the name of love, good will, and respect. We came together to listen and learn from 6 amazing women who have changed the world and the role women play in it.

The women of honor who came to share the story of their lives and offer their wisdom were:

*Susan Sullivan ~ Emmy and Golden Globe nominee, spokesperson for the National Hospice Foundation, founding member of Celebrity Action Council

*Joyce Rey ~ legendary Hollywood real estate pioneer, executive director of Coldwell Banker's Previews division, advocate for the American Cancer Society

*Margaret Tante Burk ~ first president of the Wilshire Chamber of Commerce, first female admitted into the Lions Club, considered for the position of Treasure for the United States

*Sandy Frances ~ actress, writer, dedicated mother

*Bobi Leonard ~ founder of the Women Helping Women in the World foundation, founder of Bobi Leonard Interiors

*Pauline Tangiora ~a Maori elder from New Zealand, Nobel Peace Prize nominee, member of the World Future Council.

These eloquent, beautiful, talented woman have made a lasting impression upon me. All of them were so different, yet they all had one thing in common ~ a radiant, positive attitude.

Along with their tales of success and achievement, they shared stories of heartbreak, of loss, of death, yet not one of them spoke with the voice of a victim. In their own way, each said the exact same thing: Love life!

Here is the advise I'm taking from this unforgettable experience:

1) Know Yourself - You have to be honest with yourself about what you want in life. You have to own what really makes you happy and who you are.

2) Your Attitude Creates Your Life - If you choose to see the world as a happy, safe, abundant, loving place, it will be!

3) Have the Courage to be Uncomfortable! - Growth can be a difficult process, but its the willingness to stick with it and make it to the other side that determines your success. Don't run from the challenges life throws at you - these are your opportunities for greatness!

4) Stay Feminine - Rejoice in being a woman! Femininity is needed in the world today. Who are you? A strong, empowered woman!

5) Mr. Right Will Show Up When You Know Yourself! - You will find the "right" man when you are in tune with your desires, your needs, your goals, and when you feel satisfied all by yourself! You will no longer be looking for someone to "complete" you, you will be open to someone who will create with you.

6) Age Is Just A Number! - We do not have to buy into what our society has taught us about aging. As women we become more beautiful, more wise, more loving with every year. Celebrate your age! Celebrate life!

I have been blessed beyond measure to share circle with these woman.
This experience will sing in my heart for eternity.

Little Things

2009-10-03T11:56:00.000-07:00

Soft light streams through curtained windows.
Opaque material dances in the air.
The love affair between breeze and gauze is winsome and sweet,
playful in its leisure.
I smile as I watch,
Memorized by the tiny miracle.

~Jaqueline Marie

Evolution?

2009-09-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

The general public knows that the media uses photoshopped images, however very few of us understand just how far this "art form" has gone.

I was shocked to learn that in one country a billboard advertising the upcoming Harry Potter movie photoshopped Hermione's breasts to twice their natural size. Isn't she 15??!!?? Who decided Hermione needed size D breasts to be memorable?

The majority of the images we see on a daily basis have been "edited" up to 30 times, enhancing or "fixing" everything from the size of a models waist to the length of her neck. In fact, many images are actually a montage made up of 3 or more models - the "best" features of each model are chosen and then photoshopped together to create one girl with the "ideal" look.

These images portray an ideal that is impossible to live up to. Is it any wonder why the number of women and men suffering from low self esteem and anorexia have skyrocketed?

One Wikipedia entry defines photoshop editing as such:

Photo manipulation is the application of image editing techniques to photographs in order to create an illusion or deception (in contrast to mere enhancement or correction), through analog or digital means. Its uses, cultural impact, and ethical concerns have made it a subject of interest beyond the technical process and skills involved.

The impact of enhanced images portraying unrealistic beauty is worldwide. In France politicians have purposed a law that will require airbrushed/photoshopped images to contain a disclaimer, much like the ones on cigarettes. They feel this false advertising is equally detrimental to one's health.
(Read the article here: Proposed Law)
I agree with the brave lawmakers of France -The fact that we as a global society feel the need to dissect the images of 3 beautiful women to create a "perfect woman" is truly disturbing.

As a woman who has struggled with her own self image, I highly recommend this video:

Dove's campaign for real beauty

Here is another link. Click on the image to view a list of the changes and see the before and after effects.
Magazing Cover Before and After

Where is the evolution of beauty taking us? How will I (you) determine the outcome?

Tantra and Music

2009-09-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

I am very excited to have been interview by TantricNews!
I feel honored to be recognized by the Tantric community.
I'd like to invite you to read the article :

Sound Healing with Jaqueline Marie

Please don't forget to rate the interview!

Namaste

Day of Atonement

2009-09-27T18:11:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

As the sun goes down millions of people around the world choose to fast, reflect, and seek forgiveness. Voices are humbly raised in prayer, each beseeching God to absolve one's sins .

In Hebrew the word for sin is het, which translated means to err, or to miss the mark. It's original meaning has nothing to do with evil.

When we act without love we have erred. So a sin is simply an act void of love.

I'd like to expend my love and light to the Jewish community honoring this holy day. This beautiful tradition has reminded me to act from the heart, from a place of love, and to forgive and seek forgiveness.

Have a blessed Yom Kippur!

*What does the word "sin" mean to you?

Honoring the Mother

2009-09-26T22:47:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

I've just returned from a beautiful ceremony honoring the Divine Mother. This was my first time participating in the Hindu celebration of Navratri, the sacred festival commemorating the junction of Summer into Fall. What an amazing experience!

The moment I entered the room I was transported - the energy was breathtaking. Men and women sat in sacred circle with eyes closed, hands at their hearts, breathing in unison. The smell of sweet incense filled the air.

In the center of the room hundreds of rose petals encircled three candles, representing the three main energies of the mother: Shri Durga/Kali as strength and courage, Shri Laxmi as abundance and grace, and Shri Saraswati as awakened wisdom and knowledge. (In the Hindu philosophy all three are needed for a blessed life.)

Sitting humbly at the front was the Tantric Priest Amarananda Bhairavan (Nandu). I took my place, closed my eyes, and the journey began.

Prayer. Intention. Chant. Kirtan. Blessing. Chant. Dance. Ecstasy. Chant. Blessing. Gratitude.

There is nothing like be bathed in the sound of a hundred voices chanting. Sitting in that room the vibration of love reverberated throughout my entire being. The joy of peace moved my body naturally, the recognition of an ancient truth hand my voice knowing the words and singing the songs.

I've returned home infused with the love and gratitude. Deep in my core there is peace. A gentle smile graces my lips. I feel alive in my femininity. I'm heading to bed completely in love with life.

Namaste.

2009-09-25T15:50:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

Tonight marks an important milestone in my life: In 4 hours I will be in the studio recording the vocals for my first CD.

I am humbled. I'm overjoyed. I am beyond excited. I've been shedding tears of gratitude sporadically throughout the day. This is the beginning of a beautiful journey, one I have been preparing for my entire life.

It's surreal knowing that everything I have ever experienced has led me to this moment. All the joys, each and every heartache - not a step was wasted.

I've read that the universe will conspire to help you achieve your goals once you relinquish control. I am living prof that this is true.

Thank you universe! Thank you to every soul I have ever encountered! Thank you pain, thank you sorrow, thank you faith, thank you Love!

Wish me light!

A Lesson

2009-09-22T10:41:00.001-07:00

Image by taivasalla via Flickr

This morning I woke up late. Flustered and rushed, I barely made it to my destination on time. I sat down prepared for what was going to happen only to be given a completely different experience, one I didn't want. On the drive home I received a distressing phone call. I hung up feeling sad and tired.

Taking a "realistic" perspective, one could say I've had a pretty crappy morning. Yet I am REFUSING to see it that way. Being the powerful being that I am, I know that I have a choice! I can choose to focus on the obvious negative, or I can choose to zero in on the more subtle positive. I can view the circumstances of my morning as a metaphor, and become empowered by the lesson the universe is giving me.

Whats the lesson? If I frantically rush towards something with expectation, the result will leave me feeling unsatisfied and let down.

Today I'm going to take my time. I'm going to really listen with an open mind and heart, free of expectation, want, or need. I'm going to see the gifts before me, knowing that everything is unfolding just the way its meant to.

My mantra for today" "Today is the greatest day of my life!"

2009-09-21T15:38:00.000-07:00

painting by Rassouli

One moment gives way to the next.
A constant wave, time flows beautifully onward.
I go about my day in awe - everything is changed.

~Jaqueline Marie

Perfection

2009-09-20T16:34:00.000-07:00

Image by janusz l via Flickr

I have the habit of censoring myself. I don't express what I feel. I morph my emotions and store them in a politically correct, tidy, BIG box that allows me to distance myself from them and the experiences they stemmed from. Admitting this is very hard for me. Correction, admitting anything less then perfection is hard for me.

I've realized my perception of perfection dictates my entire life. I'm always weighing my actions, my thoughts, my writings, my music etc. The voice in my head is a tyrant, constantly judging my every move. And you know what? I make darn good moves! My life is beautiful! I'm very happy with who I am, who I am becoming and where I am headed. So why do I still beat myself up?

Here is a truth - just as each of us are divine, every one of us is human. Therein lies the beauty of duality. In my desire to grow and transcend I have forgotten how important it is to be of this world. This bizarre idea of perfection my mind has created is a tool for separation - If I focus on and judge my every perceived flaw, is it not right to say I will be more quick to assess and judge the flaws of others?

I expect a lot from myself. Normally I would judge myself for even admitting such a thing, but instead I'm going to make the conscious choice to laugh at the part of my personality that is a huge control freak. I'm going to forgive myself for being human and having expectations.

Once again, the answer is forgiveness.

Passioin

2009-09-19T10:13:00.000-07:00

Image by from eye to pixel via Flickr

Passion makes the old medicine new:

Passion lops off the bough of weariness.

Passion is the elixir that renews:

how can there be weariness

when passion is present?

Oh, don't sigh heavily from fatigue:

seek passion, seek passion, seek passion!
~Rumi

Bye Bye Baby

2009-09-06T11:23:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

"2009, Summer of Death"

Having lost a wonderful man close to my heart on July 21st, I've experienced first hand the passing of a beloved. It appears that many souls are choosing to leave at this time. The multitude of this crossing, however, didn't sink in until I read Verena von Pfetten's article. (link above)
As I see it, death is a birth into the unknown. When we shed these bodies, the spark that is life is freed, and the soul returns home. Where is home? That is a question every woman must answer for herself.

I have this beautiful visual of all the souls leaving earth dancing hand in hand, intertwining as they ascend, becoming a single rainbow of light. At this point in my journey I understand we are all connected. Separation truly is an illusion. In the words of Rumi,

"What was said to the rose that made it open
was said to me, here, in my chest".

Afternoon Thoughts

2009-09-05T12:29:00.000-07:00

Layer by layer, I am shedding my past. Circumstances beyond my control are presenting me with the opportunity to free myself from limiting thoughts, beliefs, and behavior. I've found myself in the eye of the storm - destruction surrounds me. And yet, admits the chaos, there is life. It's a definite art, choosing to see the beauty through the pain.

The great mystic Rumi said it best,
"Oh my friend, if you are longing to be written upon, become a blank sheet."

Haiku

2009-06-30T18:52:00.000-07:00

Orange light flickers

Shadows dancing on the wall

Kindred flames arise

Free Sound Demonstration

2009-06-23T13:07:00.001-07:00

ATTENTION TO EMOTIONAL, PHYSICAL & SPIRITUAL HEALING

Your body, mind & spirit reveal what you need; PAY ATTENTION. Listen, understand & experience our integrated emotional, physical & healing practice of psychotherapy and medicine.

Elevate your soul; hear the magical voice of our sound therapist, Jaqueline Marie.

When:

Wednesday July 1st

7pm-9pm

Where:

Wheel of Wellbeing

(310) 477-8833

1575 Westwood Blvd, suite #205

Westwood, Ca 90024

RSVP to: WOWRSVP@gmail.com

Sacred.Sound@live.com

JaquelineMarie.com

Sound Concert Flyer

6 Steps to a Greener Diet

2009-06-21T12:39:00.000-07:00

Here are some simple suggestions from Curtis Cook, founder of the Executive Center for the Ecology Economy, to nurture your inner green foodie:

1.) Seek the local advantage.

If you can get fresh local produce in your community you are doing yourself and the planet a world of good -- minimal transportation, minimal greenhouse gas emissions, minimal preservatives (and probably pesticides) and maximum flavor and nutrition.

2.) Eat your veggies…and fruit.

Mom was right, and there is no denying it. To paraphrase healthy eating pioneer and Fit for Life author Harvey Diamond, those scientific discoveries of health enhancing nutrients are never found in pork chops. Arguably, a vegetarian diet is easier on the planet and the body, as long as you eat a balanced diet to get all the nutrients you need. Meat, dairy and grain production take more energy then they return and consume large tracts of land. Experiment by introducing more produce into your diet and try to go for a few days without meat.

3.) Cut out take-out.

If you have to order it through a clown’s mouth, eat it out of a waxed paper wrapper or wait thirty minutes before it’s free, it is not a green food choice. The planet and your digestive tract will thank you for reducing or eliminating your fast-food consumption.

4.) Small meal = small energy.

If you are heating up leftovers or a small meal, consider an energy efficient option to the stove or oven. A small electric grill or toaster oven will likely use less energy for the same task. As your large kitchen appliances wear out, consider recycling options, as well as replacement with Energy Star or other energy efficient models.

5.) If you can’t eat it, compost it.

Don’t let your food waste enter the landfill. Most food (meat and heavily processed and packaged foods being obvious exceptions) can be returned to the earth with minimal effort. Composting can be a great learning experience for kids as well. Don’t have a composter? Here’s how to create one – whether you have a big back yard or not

6.) Become food informed.

If people knew the history behind the food on their plate, it would change the modern American diet. We accept livestock bloated on antibiotics, pesticide-laden vegetables, depleted fish stocks on the verge of collapse and a grand experiment to genetically modify crop after crop. Fortunately, there are greener alternatives for meat and fish lovers, as well as recognized practices for sustainable and organic food harvesting. Ask your grocer and the owner of your favorite restaurant about their food suppliers. You deserve to know what you are eating and the impact it may be having on you and the planet.

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T11:54:00.000-07:00

What Makes a Dad

God took the strength of a mountain,
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,
The calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature,
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages,
The power of the eagle's flight,
The joy of a morning in spring,
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,
The depth of a family need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
And so,

He called it ... Dad

~~Author Unknown.~~

Image by mikebaird via Flickr

Dream of Relaity

2009-06-20T13:38:00.000-07:00

John Lennon via last.fm

You make your own dream. That's what I'm saying now. Produce your own dream.

If you want to save Peru, go save Peru. It's quite possible to do anything, but not to put it on the leaders and the parking meters. Don't expect Jimmy Carter or Ronald Reagan or John Lennon or Yoko Ono or Bob Dylan or Jesus Christ to come and do it for you. You have to do it yourself.

That's what the great masters and mistresses have been saying ever since time began. They can point the way, leave signposts and little instructions in various books that are now called holy and worshiped for the cover of the book and not for what it says, but the instructions are all there for all to see, have always been and always will be.

There's nothing new under the sun. All the roads lead to Rome. And people cannot provide it for you. I can't wake you up. You can wake you up. I can't cure you.

You can cure you.

~John Lennon

Sound Therapy

2009-06-19T19:23:00.000-07:00

I would like to share with you my experience of sound and how it can be used as a medium for healing.

Sound in any of its forms is a source of energy. As an energy source, it can be used as a tool for a change of consciousness and wellbeing. Sound therapy is based on the theory that all of life vibrates, including people's bodies. When a person's healthy resonant frequency is out of balance, physical and emotional health is affected. In sound therapy the sound vibrations create a “molecular” massage, stimulating each cell toward its proper resonating frequency. When our cells, tissues, organs and glands are all resonating in harmony, profound healing can occur.

Sacred sound - whether as prayer, music, song, incantation or chant - is a vital force which permeates every aspect of creation. It is considered the oldest form of healing, and was a predominant part of the early teachings of the Greeks, Chinese, East Indians, Tibetans, Egyptians, American Indians, Mayas, and the Aztecs.

The broad spectrum of sound therapy includes chanting, an activity long connected to healing and religion, and sounds of nature. Different sounds have elicited a variety of emotional responses and altered mental and physical states in people. The connection between sound and healing was chronicled in 1896 when American physicians discovered that certain types of music improved thought processes and spurred blood flow. More advances in sound therapy came after World War II when it was used as part of rehabilitation treatment for soldiers. We are just now beginning to awaken to the ancient benefits of sound as a means of health and wellness.

As a practicing sound therapist, I can attest to miraculous changes that occur in a persons emotional, mental, and phsyical body.

To hear samples of my sound sessions visit: www.JaquelineMarie.com

Coming from a place of grace and gratitude, I would like to offer anyone interested a free mp3 guided meditation. Please email me at: Sacred.Sound@live.com for your free meditation.

It is my hope that sacred sound will once again be utilized as a means of transformation. It is simple, effective, and everyone can do it. Around 400BCE, Plato profoundly stated, "Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything." Truly, music is the universal language.

In Light & Love

Jaqueline Marie

Tao Te Ching - Verse 1

2009-06-19T12:19:00.000-07:00

Cover via Amazon

Weekly Contemplation

Every week I will post a verse from the Tao Te Ching to help encourage your awareness to blossom. I will be drawing upon Dr. Wayne W. Dryer's book, "Change Your Thoughts Change Your Life" as a point of reference. Dr. Wayne's book is a wonderful tool to aid in your transformation process.

As you go about your week, keep the verse in mind, applying it whenever and however you can.

Also known as The Great Way, the Tao was written 500 years before the birth of Jesus by an awakened soul named Lao Tzu. The Tao is regarded by many as the ultimate commentary on the nature of our existence. I envite you to open yourself to the beautiful, universal truths of this 2,500 year old text

1st Verse

The Tao that can be told

is not the eternal Tao.

The name that can be named

is not the eternal name.

The Tao is both named and nameless.

As nameless it is the origin of all things;

as named it is the Mother of 10,000 things.

Ever desireless, one can see the mystery;

ever desiring, one sees only the manifestations.

And the mystery itself is the doorway

to all understanding.

"The Tao is an unknowable, unseeable realm where everything originates; while at the same time, the Tao exists within everything. When we desire to see this invsibleness (mystery), we attempt to define it in terms of the outer world of form - what Lao Tzu calls the 10,000 things. Lao Tzu counsels us that letting go of trying to see the mystery will actually allow us to see it."

In this reference to the Tao,
disireless means trusting, permitting, and allowing.

The point here is to recognize the difference in your body between trying and allowing, and to then become aware of the effortless sensation of the latter."

Putting the Tao into Practice:

Enjoy the mystery of life! Don't try so hard to make something work - simply allow.
Let go of the need to always name and label - Judge Less and Listen More.

There is magic in the world. Open your heart to the mystery.
Namaste
~JaquelineMarie~

The Setting Sun

2009-06-18T18:37:00.000-07:00

Having been engaged with work for many hours, I was feeling completely burnt out.
Tired, anxious, stressed, I was regarding my computer as one would a foe - with forbearance and disdain. I wanted to flee from this place, my little sound studio, and embrace the "real world".

But now, as the sun begins to descend, I am overcome with gratitude.
The rays filtering through my window illuminate my work station; the entire room takes on an ethereal glow.
What once was dark and subdued is now bursting with life -
In a matter of seconds my world is transformed.

How my eyes have been opened!
All at once I've become aware of the birds singing from across the way, their romantic serenade the most beautiful of music.

I can feel the soft breeze on my skin now. How lovingly it caresses me, encouraging me to be at peace.

A lone owl calls out; his is a sound I have always associated with the mysterious interconnectedness of the universe.

What a gift, the sun, with her glorious rays, and her subtle reminder to be mindful of the powers of perception.

Camille Pissarro's quote is perfectly fitting,
“Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places.”

How blessed am I.
How blessed I AM.

Namaste
~Jaqueline Marie~

The Rose

2009-06-18T12:26:00.000-07:00

Some say love, it is a river
that drowns the tender reed.
Some say love, it is a razor
that leaves your soul to bleed.
Some say love, it is a hunger,
an endless aching need.
I say love, it is a flower,
and you its only seed.

It's the heart afraid of breaking
that never learns to dance.
It's the dream afraid of waking
that never takes the chance.
It's the one who won't be taken,
who cannot seem to give,
and the soul afraid of dyin'
that never learns to live.

When the night has been too lonely
and the road has been to long,
and you think that love is only
for the lucky and the strong,
just remember in the winter
far beneath the bitter snows
lies the seed that with the sun's love
in the spring becomes the rose.

~ Amanda McBloom

Bloom in abandon. Let the dance begin!

Sound Session

2009-06-16T12:53:00.000-07:00

I am a certified massage therapist with a background in classical voice and music. I would like to share with you my experience of sound and how it can be used as a medium for healing.

While performing classical music in Brussels, I became aware of the powerful effect sound vibrations had on my listener’s state of consciousness and overall well being. I returned to California to share my experiences and begin my practice as a Sound Therapist.

One memorable session took place with a lovely woman who was suffering from post traumatic stress disorder and sever stomach pain. She had been in traditional therapy for many years without much success.

15 minutes into her sound session her anxiety, and stress related headache had dissipated. I observed the knots in her digestive tract relax and release. The emotional tension held in her stomach, neck, shoulders and chest was greatly alleviated. When the session was finished she reported having a deeply moving experience, one which allowed her to let go of the sadness she had been carrying. She no longer had pain in her stomach, and her heart felt much lighter.

Here is an example of the sound I created to assist her process: www.JaquelineMarie.com

Coming from a place of grace and gratitude, I would like to offer anyone interested a free mp3 guided meditation. Please email me at: Sacred.Sound@live.com for your free meditation.

In Light & Love

Jaqueline Marie

The Guest House

2009-06-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they're a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.

Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.

~Rumi

You are enough.
Just as you are in THIS moment,
You are enough.

Worry not about the future.
Fret not for the past.
Be here, right now, and BREATH.

Feel your lungs rise and fill with life.
Feel your heart beat in tune with the pulse of mother earth.
Pause. Take in the expansion of your being.
And then, ever so slowly,
Experience the relief of your exhale, the joy of letting go.
Be with your emotions, but judge them not.
Simply FEEL.

Allow yourself to flow into the next moment.
The next breath.
And then the next.

With each cycle, envision yourself more free.
Free to laugh.
Free to enjoy.
Fee to love.

You are one with the flow of life.
You are a precious piece of the whole - essential, needed, appreciated.

Gift yourself with Awareness.
You are enough.

Namaste
~Jaqueline Marie~

www.JaquelineMarie.com