Guided Meditation and Reiki: START FRESH

Guided Meditation and Reiki: START FRESH: Good morning on this last day of 2016. Are you happy to see it end? Are you looking forward to a fresh start? Do you want to erase all that ...

START FRESH

Good morning on this last day of 2016. Are you happy to see it end? Are you looking forward to a fresh start? Do you want to erase all that was? Let the good memories remain. The times of fun and joy. Let me tell you something. 2017 will have it's share of ups and downs to be sure but let's start off right at least. Today's Reiki thought is a boost I hope, "When the pain subsides-see what's left-see what's important and start fresh." Let go of the pain of the past! Who wants it? Do you? I didn't think so. It's over and done with. No reason to rehash what was. If anything a new year like a new day is a time to move forward-looking - to move ahead. Remember good times with fondness but don't dwell on those either. There will be more good times ahead- more joy, happiness and satisfaction. Be true to yourself always. I'm this day start fresh. Let everyday be brand new and exciting!! I wish all of you a very happy New year filled with all of your heart's desires now and always!!!~Love, Amy

Guided Meditation and Reiki: THE FUTURE IS HERE

Guided Meditation and Reiki: THE FUTURE IS HERE: Morning all!  So the year 2016 is coming to a close. Are you looking at it fondly or with regret and remorse? Are there things you wish you ...

THE FUTURE IS HERE

Morning all!  So the year 2016 is coming to a close. Are you looking at it fondly or with regret and remorse? Are there things you wish you could change? Do differently? Never have done at all!  It's too late for that. The only thing you can do is look ahead. Look forward to the next phase. Today's quote reflects that.  "Don't live for the past or mourn what was-be excited for the future and what is to be."  We don't know what's coming. Sometimes things come up out of the blue. Out of left field as they say. Events to enhance our lives that take us by surprise.  Sometimes there are things we have been working on for a very long time and they are about to come to fruition. We need patience and trust. Personally I will say that there is a past that I myself am mourning but the truth is I can do nothing  about it except make peace with the events but mostly make peace with myself. We can't go backwards. We can only go forwards. You are not responsible for anyone but you. Try hard to let it go whatever "it" is and look forward to the wonder and excitement for the future. It is what we all have. Breathe deeply when you feel yourself getting stuck. Long deep breaths. Breathe in joy, release anger, release sadness and release pain. I promise you a wonderful future!! ~love, Amy

Guided Meditation and Reiki: LIGHT YOUR SPARK

Guided Meditation and Reiki: LIGHT YOUR SPARK: Another beautiful day where I am despite the sadness of the news. Another reason to love your life and each day to the fullest.  Let's g...

LIGHT YOUR SPARK

Another beautiful day where I am despite the sadness of the news. Another reason to love your life and each day to the fullest.  Let's get right to it today. My Reimi thought today is "Ignite that spark and light that flame-remember those things that got you excited- it's time to wake them up." Don't just be a planner- be a doer. Life is too short. You've heard it all before again  and again. The worst story I ever heard was of a couple who were waiting to do things when the husband retired. Waiting to take that big trip. Waiting to have fun and do all the things he his heart desired. And then he died! Really!  How awful. You can work but you can have fun. You can. Do it all and it begins a today!  Ignite that spark! Light that flame!! Enjoy your time on this earth!!! And today is a special day as wel!. It is the day for New Moon Wishes!! Write down your heart's desires! Remember what for you excited! Know and believe you can do it all! Have a wonderful day and write down your 10 best wishes. I promise the Universe will hear you!! ~Love, Amy

Guided Meditation and Reiki: JUDGE NOT

Guided Meditation and Reiki: JUDGE NOT: Wednesday morning. The official middle of the week. Is anyone out there beginning to reflect on this past year? I will admit I am not there ...

JUDGE NOT

Wednesday morning. The official middle of the week. Is anyone out there beginning to reflect on this past year? I will admit I am not there yet. Still enjoying what is left of 2016 while listening to birds and looking at a beautiful blue swimming pool. I will choose to reserve my judgement.  A perfect thought to today's Reiki thought, "Control what you can- your mood, your responses, your accusations, your judgements.". I understand that can be really hard to do but at least try. Try to release judgements and accusations.  Think how much you hate being judged! That alone should make us stop. But why doesn't it? Is it because it makes us feel better than someone else? We all have reasons for doing the things we do and acting the way we do.  There is no perfect one among us. What's so great about perfection? And what makes your way of doing something the best as opposed to another?  How we go about our lives is our business and no one else's. Choose to be happy, choose to respond my dly, leave out accusation and judgement and have a wonderful day. Know it will be because you chose it! ~ Love, Amy

Guided Meditation and Reiki: IT'S COMING

Guided Meditation and Reiki: IT'S COMING: Good morning and welcome to the day!  Hope everyone has a good night's sleep.  If you are off I hope you find the time to relax and chil...

IT'S COMING

Good morning and welcome to the day!  Hope everyone has a good night's sleep.  If you are off I hope you find the time to relax and chill and not JUST do errands. Getting things done is important but so are you! Remember that!!!  Remember that everything gets done in the end. Don't rush about which brings me to today's Reiki thought-"Just when you think you are close- just when you think you are there-know you are on your way and never give up. ". Close to what? Close to finishing up what you need to do? No- I mean close to your goals. You know-how the ones where you say you are going to lose weight or get the job you really want or try and achieve something you've never done before.  Sometimes you feel it in your very being and then you let it go? Why! Because you think whatever it is can't possible happen to you! And why? The bottom line is you think you are u deserving. Yep! That's it.  And who told you that? Your parents? Your "friends." Yes notice that's I quotes. Mostly it is yourself! Ourselves tell us we don't deserve joy, happiness, love, changing our bodies, changing our relationships and even changing ourselves. When we feel like we are on our way and almost there, why is it that we give up? That feeling of undeserving pops up and then we give up. Sometimes when that happens and we are so close to whatever it is we want, that feeling of undeserving becomes so much stronger we decide it must be right.  We also get so close that we start to think is this really what I want. As if it is a test. Know what you want. Know it will be yours! When you are close, never never give up!!! You are on your way!!! Have a wonderful day!!!~Love, Amy

Guided Meditation and Reiki: DECIDE FOR YOURSELF

Guided Meditation and Reiki: DECIDE FOR YOURSELF: Another beautiful where I am. I hope you are all having beautiful days as well wherever you are.  A beautiful day doesn't have to be jus...

DECIDE FOR YOURSELF

Another beautiful where I am. I hope you are all having beautiful days as well wherever you are.  A beautiful day doesn't have to be just because the sun is out. It could be because of the people you are with or what you are doing at the moment or not doing at the moment. It could be anything. There is no right or wrong. This leads me directly to today's Reiki thought of the day, "There are right and wrong answers in math- there are no right or wrong answers in life.". How true is that?  Math is not my passion that's for sure!  Often I would get the wrong answer! ! But life is my passion! Whatever I do I get and do it with gusto and passion. Do I always do the right thing? I don't know but I also know the right thing for me may not be the right thing for you or for someone else. We have no one to answer to but ourselves. I'm not saying to completely disregard the feelings for others but do what feels right to you. How many people question your life or decisions or simply make judgements? I will tell you, so many. And those decisions and opinions are made based on themselves. You are you and always remain true to yourself! There is only one you and you are more than capable of deciding for yourself!! Go enjoy yourself today and everyday!!~Love, Amy

BE A TEACHER

Good morning and a very merry Christmas to all who celebrate and even if you don't, enjoy this very special day. Whether you celebrate or not, Christmas is indeed special. The feel of the day is comp!early different.  It is in a day like this where we can show everyone tolerance, peace and love. My Reiki thought today is "We are all here to show something to one another."  Maybe for today we are here to show tolerance to one another, that for today it does not matter if you celebrate Christmas or Chanukah which by the way is today as well.  We should all be here to support each other in good times and not such good times. We can all be here to show each other ways to celebrate happiness, ways to cope with problems and simply ways to learn new things. Sol on this Christmas day,  let's celebrate all of us! ! Have a wonderful and blessed day and let me know if you learned something new!~Love, Amy

ASSUME NOTHING

Christmas Eve!  This day always has a special feel!  A wonderful day to all!  But is everyone happy?  Are they sad?  Reflective?  Today's thought brings that about and here it is, "Agreed - only a mind reader can read minds - the rest of us need to ask and assume nothing."  Why is it so easy and natural to think you know what someone else is thinking?  Is it body language?  Is it facial language?  Or are we reading things that really aren't even there?  Sometimes it seems we want to pick a fight.  But why?  So many conflicts and misunderstandings can be avoided if only we asked questions and dropped the assumptions.  Not just because it is a holiday but because we are all here another day.  Let us all ask questions of another and for today and everyday, don't pretend you know someone else's thoughts.  If you are unsure of something, then ask.  Say, "Did you mean that?"  or "Is that what you really meant?"  Because those simple questions can do SO MUCH to avoid arguments, ill will and just terrible feelings in general.  So from now on, remember!  Ask!  I will tell you right now that I honestly mean...Have a wonderful and special day!~Love, Amy~

Guided Meditation and Reiki: LET GO!!!

Guided Meditation and Reiki: LET GO!!!: Happy day before Christmas Eve!  Don't really think that is a holiday but it's Friday and that's holiday enough for me!  I feel ...

LET GO!!!

Happy day before Christmas Eve!  Don't really think that is a holiday but it's Friday and that's holiday enough for me!  I feel like I can breathe a sigh of relief.  I will repeat what I wrote on my Face Book site: Whatever it is you celebrate let it be peaceful and calm, joyous and happy.  In other words, don't stress please!  Whatever it is , it is...whatever you do...have fun and make the best of whatever situation you need to be in.  Hopefully it will be a good one.  Trust the day.  A perfect segue to today's Reiki thought which is, "Why worry over what you can't control - release control - embrace trust."  There are times when we need to do just that.  Realize you can't control every situation.  For some of us I understand that is very hard to do!  Believe me.  I may sound calm but I like to control things just as much as the next guy!  But what do you do when you can't?  When you really can't and there is NOT ONE THING YOU CAN TO DO CHANGE A SITUATION????  You have to trust that the outcome will be alright.  You have to believe that the Universe, (which I spoke about yesterday) is loving and good and protective and kind and will be looking out for your best interest.  You may think to yourself, "how did I get into this mess?"  I even believe there is a reason for that.  Somehow you needed to get into a mess possibly to get out of something worse.  Possibly for the change you needed but didn't know how to accomplish. I know and understand that for many of you this can be a stressful time of year and releasing control of anything can be exceedingly difficult but I ask all of you to do just that.  See what happens, what transpires!  Be surprised.  If things really don't turn to your favor this time, no it's just not the time for it and be proud of yourself that at least for this time, for this day, you did just that.  You let go!  Have a wonderful Friday everyone!  ~Love, Amy~

THE UNIVERSE DOES NOT PUNISH

Good Morning!  Today is Thursday.  Feeling so wintery out.  After all, Winter began yesterday.  As we get closer to the holidays, (real close!) many of us just don't seem that happy.  Pain from the past seems to get to us more than ever.  Sadness and depressions creeps in much more easily than joy and happiness.  This brings me to today's Reiki quote, "Difficult times and challenges are not punishments but rather lessons from a loving Universe."  These difficult times are all too often seen as punishments to us and begin to be highlighted during the holidays.  Take heart in knowing that there are lessons for all of life's situations.  Even the situations we willingly put ourselves into.  Know that whatever happened you were meant to learn from it and painful as it may be, you will get through it stronger and with more knowledge.  I have been through difficult times myself and there is something I am still struggling with.  I am also struggling with knowing if my situation really will make me stronger.  Even I am still on the fence, but I know what happened, happened because it had to.  I needed forward motion and unfortunately pain is part of it.  But I can see I am getting stronger and stronger every single day.  When difficult things happen the only place you can go is forward.  Keep that forward motion and try your best not to look back.  I will always say, you are stronger than you appear, you are stronger than you think.  YOU ARE STRONG!  Believe in your strength for it is real.  Delight in the knowledge that the holidays are upon us.  Delight in the life you have and please know you are being watched and looked after by a very loving and giving Universe!  Have a wonderful day everyone!~Love, Amy~

NO ONE CAN TAKE YOUR PLACE

It's officially the middle of the week and it is also the Winter Solstice today AND the shortest day of the year!  Happy Winter everyone.  Let today be special as it does come around but once a year!  Speaking of special, let's get to today's Reiki quote of the day - "Constant comparisons are detrimental to your well being - you are you - awesome - amazing and beautiful."  Let's see, how many people are you?  Umm...that would be none!  There exists only one you.  One you who is like no other.  You are unique in your thoughts, your experiences, your life.  There is but one you.  Why is it so natural to compare ourselves to others?  Because we want what they have or rather we THINK we want what they have.  Having what someone else has means we are changing our lives into something we are not.  I always say that having what someone else has goes further than that.  It means that it's not just the "thing"  you want but their life.  The life of another and all that goes with it.  Let's say you want a bigger house and you look at someone with a bigger house.  Do you know what goes ON in that bigger house?  Is it a home?  A happy place?  Or just a bigger house?  Are you willing to trade all that YOU have for a bigger house?  Hmmm.  NOW that is something to think about.  Many years ago, (maybe not that many!) I sent my son to a pre-school in a very wealthy area.  Monetarily I could not compete with these other moms.  Notice how right away I put myself in competition!  When I took my son to play dates my mouth hung open as I approached some of these driveways.  I was actually disappointed that my living quarters did not approach the luxuriousness of some of these houses.  But within those walls I actually would feel very uncomfortable.  Something was missing.  What was it?  I would go back to my home and feel the love that emanated from the walls.  This was something I never felt in any one of those big houses.  That's all they were.  Big houses.  You never know what is going on in someone's life.  Be happy you have a beautiful home to call your own.  Big, small, it's yours.  I once knew a woman who constantly compared her child to others.  How awful for her own child!  Your children are your own and they too are wonderful and have been given gifts.  Acknowledge those gifts.  Acknowledge yourself and the uniqueness of who you are.  Acknowledge the life you have built with your husband, partner or all by yourself.  No one is you and no one will ever be you!  YOU ARE AMAZING!  Never forget that!  Have a beautiful day~Love, Amy

Guided Meditation and Reiki: FEEL THE BURN

Guided Meditation and Reiki: FEEL THE BURN: Good Morning!  I thought it was Wednesday when I awoke this morning.  Has that ever happened to you where you think it is a day that it is n...

FEEL THE BURN

Good Morning!  I thought it was Wednesday when I awoke this morning.  Has that ever happened to you where you think it is a day that it is not?  As much as I love the weekends and having that time to myself, I don't want to wish away my days.  It will be another cold one.  (I think I will be saying that a lot), but the sun will be out doing it's thing.  Today's Reiki quote is, "Whether the sun is behind you or in front of you - it is still shining on you."  We are surrounded by the beauty and the warmth of the sun.  If it is shining in the sky, whether it is warm out or cold, we can feel those gorgeous rays.  Sometimes we feel them more strongly than at other times.  Just as we feel our lives are cooperating with us and going in the direction we want it to.  Even if for a period of time we feel the sun on our backs and both physically and metaphorically behind us, it is there giving us the love and light we need.  At times it is difficult to remain strong and positive and see that sun and feel those rays...they are there.  Know it, feel it, believe it!  Remember that song from ANNIE - The one that says , "The Sun'll come out Tomorrow, Bet Your Bottom Dollar That Tomorrow, Come What May."  I know you do.  I remember that song.  Even as a little girl I thought it was so uplifting.  That no matter what is happening in your life, no matter the grief you may be suffering, no matter the turmoil you may be in, NO MATTER WHAT!  The sun will shine it's warm and loving rays on you once again.  Your grief will dissipate, your sorrow will lessen, your turmoil will subside, you will rise again as a stronger you.  So for today, whether you feel the sun on your back or on your face, wherever you see those rays shining down, know that as you change position the sun will shine on you exactly where you want it to be!  Have a wonderful sunny day!~Love, Amy~

Guided Meditation and Reiki: TAKING YOURSELF TO NEW HEIGHTS

Guided Meditation and Reiki: TAKING YOURSELF TO NEW HEIGHTS: AWW - Monday.  Make the best of it.  Before you know it, it will be Tuesday and so on and so forth but please don't wish away time.  You...

TAKING YOURSELF TO NEW HEIGHTS

AWW - Monday.  Make the best of it.  Before you know it, it will be Tuesday and so on and so forth but please don't wish away time.  You never know what the day will bring!  And of course, that brings me to today's Reiki thought of the day - "Uncover and discover new things about yourself - push yourself to places you've never been."  When was the last time you challenged yourself?  Yesterday was about expectations of others.  Today is about expectations about yourself.  When we are in a rut about our lives and ourselves we only have ourselves to blame.  What would happen if you did something new?  Something you have never done before?  You might just surprise yourself at what your capabilities really are!  Yesterday I did something I never thought I would do.  I went to an all day Meditation retreat.  At first when I saw it advertised I thought, "I could NEVER do that,"  All day!?  Too long.  NO WAY!  But I came to that conclusion without even giving it any real thought!  As a matter of fact it wasn't even a thought.  It was more of a gut reaction and not only that but a comfort zone.  Isn't it easy to say "I can't," rather that "I can?"  I would say yes.  And so, I signed up for this all day retreat.  I had time to think and rethink it.  The day came.  It was dark and rainy.  A perfect day to stay in bed.  BUT....I went!  And you know what?!  It was amazing.  There was sitting meditation, walking meditation, Dharma talk, lunch and a closing all lead by this wonderful person.  I am so happy that I went and that I chose not to stay in bed.  There will be many days I can slumber but yesterday was not one of them.  I am proud of myself, proud that I pushed myself, proud that I experienced something new and wonderful.  Get out of your comfort zone everyone!  Try something new!  Push yourself and be surprised at the results!  And by all means...let me know what happens!  Have a wonderful day~Love, Amy~

Guided Meditation and Reiki: Accept of Don't Accept - That is the Question

Guided Meditation and Reiki: Accept of Don't Accept - That is the Question: It's Sunday!  Don't know what everyone has planned but make it good since if you are like me, you have to go to a place of employmen...

Accept of Don't Accept - That is the Question

It's Sunday!  Don't know what everyone has planned but make it good since if you are like me, you have to go to a place of employment tomorrow.  Today I am doing something extra special.  I am going on a 1 day Meditation retreat at the Chuang Yen Monastery in Kent, NY.  Words cannot descrive how excited I am.  I have meditated before at the beautiful Redding Meditation Center in Redding, CT. but that is only an hour and a half.  Today will be a challenge for me as I have never done it for that long.  I will be sure and write about it tomorrow.  For today I wanted to start with my quote which is, "Never hold anyone to your expectations - accept what is or let them go."  I will tell you that when you do hold people according to what you think they should do, they are sure to disappoint.  Not always but many times.  It could be wanting to see someone for coffee and at the last minute they cancel.  Making plans and someone has to change for whatever reason.  It could be they didn't do something the second you asked!  That is my own personal problem and I am working hard on letting that go.  Think to yourself what is really important.  The person or the task?  Is the person avoiding the task, the place or you or is just being who they are?  Hmmm.  That's one to really think of.  That is one to really think about.  Be accepting and be accepting with love and consideration.  Most of us mean well but we are all people who also make mistakes.  Begin with yourself and you will absolutely begin to be more accepting or think if this person is really contributing to your life.  Be the best you can be!  With love for a beautiful Sunday to all of you~Love, Amy~

Guided Meditation and Reiki: Good morning all! No rain today, nice and sunny o...

Guided Meditation and Reiki: Good morning all!  No rain today, nice and sunny o...: Good morning all!  No rain today, nice and sunny or at least that what I heard.  Hmmm, let's get to today's Reiki quote - "Don&...

Guided Meditation and Reiki: Good Morning on this middle of the week day! Almo...

Guided Meditation and Reiki: Good Morning on this middle of the week day!  Almo...: Good Morning on this middle of the week day!  Almost there.  Bundle up cause it's getting colder.  This is the time when we hardly recog...

Guided Meditation and Reiki: THE STRUGGLE IS REAL

Guided Meditation and Reiki: THE STRUGGLE IS REAL: Bundle up today everyone!  Going to be REALLY COLD!!!!  A good day to stay under the covers but if you have to be somewhere like I do, pleas...

Guided Meditation and Reiki: VALUE YOURSELF

Guided Meditation and Reiki: VALUE YOURSELF: Good Morning all and a very happy Friday.  Another cold one so dress warm.  If you get a break today, get yourself a hot coco!  I am so seri...

Guided Meditation and Reiki: MAY YOUR WISH COME TRUE

Guided Meditation and Reiki: MAY YOUR WISH COME TRUE: Https://meditationandchill.blogspot.com Good Morning!  What a beautiful day it is out there.  The first snow is always special because it is...

Guided Meditation and Reiki: Well it's here. Monday! Let's all make the best ...

Guided Meditation and Reiki: Well it's here.  Monday!  Let's all make the best ...: Well it's here.  Monday!  Let's all make the best of it.  So let's get right down to it.  Today's Reiki thought is "Whe...

MAY YOUR WISH COME TRUE

Https://meditationandchill.blogspot.comGood Morning!  What a beautiful day it is out there.  The first snow is always special because it is the first!  Don't think of all the things you need to do.  Take this time to enjoy relaxing because that is all you can do for now!  If you are like me, however, you were wishing for it to snow yesterday.  You know, no school!  A day to really chill and do absolutely nothing.  Which brings me to today's Reiki thought, "Why be careful what you wish for - if it's what you truly want - let it be yours."  Now that could certainly pertain to a snow day but also to something more serious pertaining to your life.  How many times have you thought to yourself or actually said out loud, "I could never have that? I could never do that? That will never work out for me."  Whatever "THAT" is, if you put all your energies into having it not work out then you have just fulfilled your prophecy.  Change that mindset into, "of course I can have that, that will work for me, and YES, I can do that!"  Self fulfilling prophecies work both ways, just so you know.  The one thing I will say is that you need to be really clear.  Think about what it is that you truly want.  What is it that you wish would change in your life and do you really, truly, honestly want and wish for that change to happen?  We work so hard on our negative thoughts.  Work just as hard on the positive ones.  Nothing is impossible if you put your energies toward it.  Of course you have to work towards your goal whatever it might be.  Sitting around wishing for change to happen without action is not going to get you anywhere.  I think you all know exactly what I'm talking about.  I have been working very hard towards making my Reiki practice a reality.  I didn't just sit back and say, "Wow, I wish people would find me."  How could they find me if I didn't put it out there by advertising and telling people about myself.  The fact is, no one would know.  And so, I have done my part and I am seeing the rewards of not only my hard work but my positive intentions.  I am capable of changing my life and so are you!  We all are, AND....I truly and sincerely believe that.  Believe it too!!! Have a wonderful and snowy Saturday!!~Love, Amy~ 

VALUE YOURSELF

Good Morning all and a very happy Friday.  Another cold one so dress warm.  If you get a break today, get yourself a hot coco!  I am so seriously thinking about it!  Mmmm. You should always treat yourself!  Why not!  Don't you deserve it?  Or for some reason do you think you don't?  Let's get right to today's Reiki thought, "Your opinion matters, your voice means something, you are important - don't let anyone tell you otherwise."  My quote is not directly about treating yourself but it is about YOU and the importance of your thoughts and words.  If you don't think your opinion matters then you also don't think you are deserving of ANYTHING.  WRONG!!!  Have you ever had a conversation with someone and their reaction to you is, "aww, you don't know what you are talking about."  I really DO NOT like when someone says that to me.  It is upsetting because it completely invalidates your thoughts.  You can disagree with someone.  We all have different thoughts and opinions on different matters.  The point is to show respect for the other one's point of view and not to put someone down.  When you do that it simply makes that person feel terrible.  I know I don't want to be responsible for making someone feel bad.  Do you?  It is unfortunate that there are those out there who really do thrive on that behavior and that is not only annoying but sad.  Think about it.  If someone can't possible validate what you are saying but only makes you feel belittled and dare I say, stupid.  It is because that person themselves was never validated and is simply a bully.  Don't get into conversations with conversation hogs and bullies.  I will say right now, your words do matter, your voice is important and of course YOU MATTER!  Have a wonderful day everyone!~Love, Amy~

THE STRUGGLE IS REAL

Bundle up today everyone!  Going to be REALLY COLD!!!!  A good day to stay under the covers but if you have to be somewhere like I do, please dress for it.  Right now I can hear the wind and the wind chimes outside my window.  It's actually very pretty listening from my warm house!!!  Here is today's Reiki thought of the day - "It's important to remember the struggle of today will eventually subside and become a distant memory."  Who hasn't had to struggle with something?  I know I have, we all have.  In the moment of a struggle whatever that may be IT IS AWFUL.  Cliche time - Time Heals All Wounds.  Yes it does.  The internal wounds we all struggle with.  Relationships, events, things we wish we could have handled differently.  Unfortunately we cannot take things back.  Words, actions, sometimes even our thoughts.  Some of these things can cause us real pain both physical and emotional.  I personally went through something and I will tell you, it will always be with me but I can also tell you that with each passing day, the struggle is less and less.  There is a certain amount of pain I carry but I went from non-functioning to functioning to actually being able to be happy again.  I NEVER thought that would happen!  In the moment of sadness, struggle, pain - we think it will be forever!  No way out!!  Sinking into a deep hole that we will never be able to climb out of but I am her to tell you and to ASSURE you!  You will get out of that hole!  You will not only climb out but you will stand strong once again.  I am also not here to tell you that in your mind you will say, "I CAN"T BELIEVE THAT BOTHERED ME!  HAHA, SILLY ME!!"  NO!  Absolutely not.  What I am here to tell you is that life will move on with or without you.  Not only do you have a decision to make in how you want it to go but the time passing will make whatever struggle you are dealing with, lighter and lighter as time passes.  Maybe not today, tomorrow, next week, next month but eventually I can promise that your inner strength will carry you through ANYTHING!!! Be strong, be brave and know the Universe if there to support you. OH! And I am too!!! ~Love, Amy~

Good Morning on this middle of the week day!  Almost there.  Bundle up cause it's getting colder.  This is the time when we hardly recognize anyone as we are wearing layer upon layer to keep warm so let me get right to today's quote - "Look beyond the physical and see the soul - that is where the true beauty is."  Basically don't get hung up on looks.  Naturally the first thing we see is the physical but give yourself a chance to really know a person.  Deep down what we all want is the same.  To love, be loved, to have joy and to be happy.  Knowing that should make it easier to relate to anyone.  Here's another cliche we all know.  Beauty is only skin deep.  So very true.  You could be the most beautiful person but when you have ugly thoughts that beauty disappears.  I knew someone like that.  I bet you do too.  This calls to mind a memory of years ago.  A truly physically pretty woman I knew who the more I spoke with, the nastier I realized she was.  Over time her face literally seemed to transform.  "Was it me?" I thought?  No!  She is actually changing.  Her mean spirit was literally coming through her skin.  This physically pretty person was changing before my very eyes.  When you look at a physically attractive person it is natural to be drawn to them for that very reason but if there soul doesn't match their outward appearance you will begin to be repelled as I was.  Be beautiful on the inside because if you are you will truly radiate on the outside.  True beauty really is within!  For today and everyday, think beautiful thoughts and know that YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL!  ~Love, Amy~

Good morning all!  No rain today, nice and sunny or at least that what I heard.  Hmmm, let's get to today's Reiki quote - "Don't interpret for others - ask questions - be clear - their meaning may not be what you think."  I mean I thought I heard it was going to be a nice day.  That's really a little thing,  A change of weather is not going to ruin someone's day unless of course you wear the wrong shoes.  That then is indeed a tragedy!  But seriously everyone - when you interpret meaning without questioning you are opening up not only yourself but obviously the other person and NOT in a good way.  Unless you care enough to ask questions  you can never know what is in someone else's mind unless you are a true mind reader and I don't know that anyone can make that claim.  Be clear with people. Friendships can be destroyed, marriages can be ruined because trust is not there.  A joke to someone else may be taken as something serious to someone else.  Always know you have the right to question so that you are clear with another's meaning.  For today, ask, don't just take a statement at face value.  You will not be criticized, but validated.  You are worth it and always know that!!!!  Have a beautiful day everyone and I will tell you, it IS going to be sunny! Peace and Love~Amy~

Well it's here.  Monday!  Let's all make the best of it.  So let's get right down to it.  Today's Reiki thought is "When someone has done an awesome job let them know and if they haven't - let go of the need to let them know."  If your employer is telling you something job related that you could have done better then I suppose that's OK, however, there is a way to say it.  We all know those off handed compliments that make you think, "was that a compliment or not."  Let a compliment be real and realize that sometimes it is just the other person's need for control.  Yes control!  "You did a great job." DONE! Leave it at that.  "That was great, if only..."  Get what I mean.  You can all fill in the blanks.  I would say that for the most part, when we haven't done our best and could have improved on something, WE ALL KNOW!!!  Do not take pleasure in pointing out mistakes.  Let a compliment be real and genuine.  We all have off days when we are not our best but that's the beauty of life - there is always going to be another day, another chance and another sunrise.  With that thought in mind - give someone a compliment today and feel proud that you did.  You have no idea of the impact  you can make.  Enjoy Monday, rainy day or not!!~Love, Amy~

Aw Sunday - enjoy it.  Monday comes too quickly but instead of looking at it with dread, look at it as a new beginning because it is!  A new week and new things that are sure to happen!  Today's Reiki thought is, "Change can come abruptly and without warning - embrace it and let it work in your favor."  Now that could mean anything.  Any event, absolutely anything.  Sometimes we are prepared for it but most times we are not.  Even if it is something that we want, have been wishing for, hoping for, saying in our heads, "WHEN" we are still not always ready.  We are all working towards some sort of goal whether it is to lose weight, get a new job, exercise more, read more, you name it, it's there.  All of a sudden, we lost the weight, got the job, are fit as can be....then what.  Is there more?  Do we want more? Are we then satisfied?  Change is wonderful and scary at the same time.  Embrace it in all it's scariness, excitement whether for the moment it is good or bad.  For today, embrace Sunday, relax and enjoy~Love, Amy~https://www.facebook.com/amy.axelrodkaufman

Saturday is a little more relaxing than during the week but still always things to do!  Today's Reiki thought is this: "Who can speak for someone else - no one so don't even try."  There is not any one person who knows exactly what someone is going through.  Judging comes all too easily for so many, myself included.  I truly believe that  you need to give people the benefit of the doubt and second and even third chances.  Life is complicated!  Really complicated.  Life is unpredictable, confusing, difficult but also amazing and wonderful.  When those confusing, complicated times come up, rely on your own inner voice.  Your own instinct.  There are those around you who have your best interest at heart but you have to know who they are and in times of crisis rely on them and them only.  All those sayings come from truth.  Unless you walk a thousand miles in someone else's moccasins, you have no idea.  Well that is very true and I will tell you.  You need a lot less than a thousand miles!  Please for today and forever - stop judging once and for all.  We all want love, peace, happiness and joy in our lives.  If you think someone has done something that does not agree with your sensibility then keep it to yourself.  Only you are you.  Everyone treats different situations according to what agrees with their sensibility and not yours.  Be a support, we all need it!  Peace everyone! ~Love, Amy~

Good Morning and happy Friday everyone!  So glad it's the weekend!  Friday has a distinct feel from every other day of the week so rejoice and use the time to rejuvenate!  Today's Reiki thought is this, "Never assume this is all there is when the reality is there is always so much more."  All too often we get discouraged and our inner voice says, "this is it!"  Well I am here to tell you, no it's not.  Your age does not matter, where you are right now at this very moment does not matter.  Really, nothing matters.  What is it that drives you?  What is your passion?  If at this moment you don't know, that's OK.  Don't beat yourself up over it.  All good things take time.  I don't want this post to be the ultimate cliche but what I say truly comes from the heart.  I mean every word.  Don't give yourself limits because when you do you limit all the possibilities out there and there are many.  We are all blessed with good fortune but sometimes we are not ready.  The Universe is there to support you so that when you are ready it will come.  I will speak about myself.  When I was a little girl I never said I want to be a Reiki Practitioner, trust me!  Who knew what that was even in my 20's.  My spiritual side has obviously always been strong but it took me years to hear it.  When I made the decision to listen it was because I did think this is all there is.  I knew I was capable of so much more in my life.  The Universe guided me and helped me be where I am today.  Helping people!  I have always helped people in the past whether it was the children I taught, played with at camp, my own children, even my beautiful dog, Mia.  But the Universe had more in store for me and trust me, everyone, it is not over.  I know there is more ahead for me and I am open, willing to wait and excited to see what comes next.  I want to share that excitement with all of you.  Be excited, be happy, look forward to every day with enthusiasm because you never know where good fortune will come from!  Have a blessed day everyone!!!~Amy~

Good morning everyone!  Today's Reiki thought of the day is "Trust yourself, your intuition, your soul - trust that you know more than you think you do."  I think this applies to everyone but I will absolutely say this applies to me.  We all have that inner voice but we need to acknowledge it and really listen to it.  It could be something so simple like ordering something in a restaurant or something life changing.  For a long time I resisted having my Reiki practice in my home.  All that went through my head was, "I can't have anyone in the house, no one will want to come here, it's not professional enough." The key word was enough.  What I was saying is that I am not enough!  But you know what?!  I finally realized that I am MORE than enough.  In my head, I thought that in order to be "professional" you had to BE somewhere.  Well I AM somewhere!  I am here!  Here to help others and work on clients in the privacy of my sacred space in my home!  This is the place I need to be.  The funny thing is, is that practitioners that I have seen personally all practice in their homes.  What I needed was that inner voice telling me or rather shouting at me, STOP!  You know exactly where you need to be.  Let me tell you, for me this was and is big.  I love being in MY place.  My home is my place and I am so happy to share it with all of you!  So listen to your inner voice, your intuition and your soul - you DO know more than you think!!  Have a blessed day everyone!  Until tomorrow! Love, ~Amy~

Wow! This is my very first post as a blogger.  I have finally stepped into this century and very proud of myself I might add.  My blog is not about my lack of technological skills, it is about Guided Meditation, Reiki and Spiritual Growth.  Everyday I post what I call my Reiki quote of the day.  Today's quote is as follows: "As devastating as loss can be sometimes it is there to free you."  I wrote that because of things that I personally have been going through.  Loss can take many shapes.  Loss of a pet, loss of friends, relationships, businesses.  The list goes on.  I not only suffered a loss but I chose it which makes it more difficult, however at the same time, it freed me.  It was something I had to let go of.  If there anything you need to let go of? Something you want to or don't but in the end will free you as well?  Think about it. Meditate on it.  Let me know.  My thoughts, prayers and love are with you!  Love, Amy