Heal My Voice – Page 3 – HEAL MY VOICE

Creating Connection With Ceremony And Ritual

By Beth Terrence, Heal My Voice Author, Facilitator And Board Member

One of the greatest diseases of our times is the sense of disconnection that is felt with ourselves, others and the world. By bringing ceremony and ritual into our daily lives, we can begin to reconnect to the sacredness and beauty of life. It can be a way to rediscover ourselves, to align with our soul purpose and to deepen our sense of connection with all things. In many ways, we can view our writing as a ritual and we can also incorporate ceremony and ritual in our lives in a way that supports our writing.

Many people come from backgrounds where ceremony and ritual was some part of a religious upbringing. For some, that is something that is continued on special occasions , during religious services or maybe even in daily life. For others, it is something that may have been abandoned as life progressed in new ways. For some, it may not have been part of growing up at all. Writing is a way we can reconnect with ourselves, too. By being intentional, we can use our writing as a form of ceremony and ritual or we can also create ceremony or ritual to support our process of writing.

In our Heal My Voice programs, we take time to honor our choices and transitions. We suggest using ceremony and ritual in a variety of ways to enhance writing and life. We encourage participants to create ceremony and ritual to support their process of healing and transformation, to celebrate their stories as they are emerging and ultimately upon completion. Although most Heal My Voice circles are a virtual experience, it is clear that during this time we enter into sacred space and upon completion we emerge back into the world “a new woman”.

Using ceremony and ritual is a way to honor and acknowledge the changes and transitions that we all experience in life.

Some of the ways that ceremony and ritual can support us include:

Paying tribute to important life events and honoring our transitions
Being in harmony with the seasons and rhythms of nature
Creating sacredness in our lives
Honoring our ancient traditions or creating new ones
Releasing attachments to energies, relationships and situations, which are no longer serve us
Calling in energies and intentions we wish to bring forward
Evoking an ecstatic state of being and connecting at a soul level
Helping to heal our fundamental spiritual wound – the illusion of separateness from creation
Supporting specific healing for ourselves, others and the world
Aligning our energy with the present moment
Helping us to be more fully conscious and awake
Gaining clarity and understanding our experiences
Accessing spiritual guidance and wisdom

Ceremony can be something we do individually, with others or in community. However we choose to create it, ceremony is a way to step out of the busyness of our lives and the world of linear time into sacred space where deeper understanding, healing and wisdom resides. Ceremony, in and of itself, is a paradigm shift. It can help us to focus on our visions and intentions and begin to draw them into the world of matter, allowing them to become manifest.

Rituals are specific rites or tools we use as part of ceremony. They can also be used to create sacredness in any moment. Many shamans begin the day by honoring the directions and connecting with the elements of nature. Many people begin their day with meditation or prayer of some kind. Whatever it is, beginning the day with some type of ritual or spiritual practice is a powerful way to move consciously into your daily life. Some ways to create ritual include:

Lighting a candle
Setting an intention
Burning sage or other healing herbs such as sweet grass, yerba santé or cedar
Setting up an altar and arranging spiritually meaningful articles or pictures on it
Drumming, rattling, chanting, singing or listening to music or sounds of nature
Reciting prayers silently or aloud or reading from a sacred text
Cultivating a meditation practice
Being in silence and honoring the sacredness that comes from that space

As a practicing shaman and healer, ceremony and ritual is a core practice for me. It is not based on any one religion or tradition but on generating a strong connection with spirit, receiving guidance and living in an intentional way. Whether you choose to practice ceremony and ritual with others or on your own, it is important to create practices that support you in the present moment. Here are some questions to consider in creating a ceremony or ritual practice:

What is your intention? What is the reason for the ceremony or ritual?
Will it be personal, with another person or group?
What elements or tools need to be gathered? What preparation needs to happen?
What will the structure of the ceremony or ritual be? Who will perform it? Where will it be done?
Are there any prayers, readings, songs, poems, and dances, etc. that you wish to include?
How will you open and close the ceremony?

Ceremony and ritual can be a beneficial part of daily spiritual practice. It can help to align our energies in the present moment and to bring increased harmony to our lives. Take some time this week to consider what you would like to create in your life and how ceremony and ritual may support that process. Explore whether there is some ceremony or ritual that might support your writing process, too. Whether it is creating a ceremony with a specific intention or incorporating a ritual into your daily life, notice how this experience invokes a deeper sense of connection with yourself, others and the world.

Many Blessings,

Beth

Beth Terrence is a Shaman, Holistic Health & Wellness Expert, Speaker and Writer. She has been working in the field of Holistic Healing and Transformation for over 18 years. This path evolved from her own healing journey through fibromyalgia and the impact of trauma on her life. Beth found that by taking a holistic approach to life and well-being, she was able to achieve of a state of happiness and wholeness that she never imagined was possible. Her mission is to support others in cultivating a heart-centered, balanced and joyful life through discovering the healer within.

Writing has always been one of Beth’s greatest passions. Since childhood, she has written poetry and kept a journal. Participating in a Heal My Voice project opened the door to Beth stepping forward in the world as a writer. Her stories are featured in Inspired Voices: True Stories of Visionary Women and Harmonic Voices: True Stories Of Women On The Path To Peace. Beth joined the Heal My Voice board of directors in May 2013. Additionally, she is the lead facilitator and program developer for a Heal My Voice program that brings writing and creativity to women in addiction recovery at Chrysalis House in Crownsville, MD.

Beth is available for Integrative Transformational Healing Sessions & Programs by Phone/Skype or in person in Annapolis, MD. She offers a variety of classes, workshops and trainings on Holistic Healing, Transformation, Writing and Creativity in the MD/DC/VA area and virtually. Beth also writes regularly on her own blog, The Heart Of Awakening: Searching For A New Paradigm, an online resource for transformation and healing. To learn more about Beth’s Integrative Transformational Healing Services, visit http://www.bethterrence.com.

Beth’s Take A Break Summer Special Offer:

20% Off All Sessions By Phone/Skype Or In Person In Annapolis, MD Thru July 31st…

Integrative Healing Sessions may include Shamanic Healing, Bach Flower Remedies, Zero Balancing, Body/Energy Therapies, Meditation, Holistic Self-Care and other holistic resources to support transformation and healing on all levels – body, mind, emotion and spirit.

Learn more about Beth’s Take A Break Summer Special Offer and Integrative Transformational Healing Services in July’s Discover The Healer Within E-News…

Where To Connect With Beth:

Website: www.bethterrence.com

Blog: http://theheartofawakening.wordpress.com

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/bethterrence

Twitter: @BethTerrence

Contact: beth@bethterrence.com

Fearless Voices: An Introduction

A few days ago, I wrote a blog about the difference between a Foreword, an Introduction and more… You can read the details here:

An Introduction is usually written by someone who has written the book or who has been a facilitator of a project, as in the anthology type style. They share the journey and the history of the creation of the book.

As one example, here is the Introduction in the first Heal My Voice Book:

Fearless Voices: True Stories by Courageous Women

Introduction

By Andrea Hylen, Founder of Heal My Voice

During the last nine months, twenty-two women gathered in a circle in the form of a secret Facebook group, weekly phone calls, and in-person gatherings. The focus of our connection was to write a story that wanted to emerge that would heal an experience in our lives.

In the writing, the gentle reading and editing, the listening and support, using vulnerability as power, our voices emerged clearer and stronger. Writing. Speaking. Leadership.

There are a lot of details I could write about our time together, but I am on a mission and I don’t have a lot of time to bring you into the story. So, I am going to get right to the point.

Women are only using a small percentage of their voices. I don’t have any scientific proof like the studies that have been conducted on the brain. You know the studies, the ones that say we are only using a small percentage of our brains?

I will venture to say that women are only using a small percentage of their voices; a small percentage of their infinite potential; a small percentage of their unique, beautiful gifts and wisdom. My proof comes from being a woman, working with women, gathering in community with women, raising three daughters, volunteering as a Girl Scout Leader and a Destination Imagination Coach and witnessing women in all areas of my life.

I have witnessed their brilliance, their hearts and seen how powerful they are when no one is looking, when no one can see, when no one can hurt them and when someone believes in them. I have seen them stand up for other people but rarely for themselves.

Here is what I have also seen:

We apologize when we have done nothing wrong. We are afraid to ask for what we want. We are afraid to take up too much space. We think that other people have the answers for how we should live our lives. We hold on too tight. We give up too easily. We call each other names, put each other down, gossip instead of having direct, honest conversations. We whine, use passive-aggressive behavior, we learn to manipulate, back stab and hide as we go around the back door to try to get what we want.

It is time for that to change and many of us have made the choice to do that. We are courageous. We are fearless. We are healing an old story and we are practicing with our newly discovered voices until it becomes a natural way of living, of speaking, of honoring our words, our wisdom and acknowledging and celebrating each other.

It is time for women to heal their voices in communities where they can practice, feel safe, be seen and heard and heal from the wounds from trauma, loss, grief and abuse. And from that newly healed, grounded place, we are learning to fully express who we really are.

In the Heal My Voice book circles and letter writing projects, we believe healing an old story leads women to a richer expression of their unique gifts and leadership and gives them more access to the full expression of their voice.

When a woman is nurtured in community and given a space to speak about what she feels, thinks and wants, she heals her voice and begins to speak from a place of wisdom. She learns to listen to her inner guidance. She asks for support when she needs it. She taps into her vulnerability and uses it as power. She discovers her innate wisdom.

Why does it matter now?

Things are rapidly changing in the world. We are in a time of breakdown. The old structures are crumbling. And we have the chance to rebuild, rethink, and release things that no longer work. Women standing together and standing side by side with men is what is needed. We need the full expression of who we are. Connected to our hearts; Listening to and acting from inspiration; Joining together to lift humanity. We can’t heal the planet when we ourselves are emotionally and spiritually wounded.

The mission is to empower an army of women who heal a story in their lives, reconnect with their inner authority, and discover the next steps in leadership. Women in community expressing vulnerability, supporting each other, encouraging, laughing, connecting, collaborating and celebrating life.

As Marianne Williamson wrote in, “A Return to Love:”

“Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we’re liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

We are no longer just saying the words. We have gathered in community, healing our voices, giving each other permission and liberating each other. We are living this now.

This is the first of a series of books that are being created in communities of women around the world. This is a series of Voices individually and collectively breaking through into new territory and a new world.

We begin with Fearless Voices. We are ready now.

To connect with Andrea and learn about current projects go to: www.andreahylen.com

Andrea Hylen believes in the power of a woman’s voice to usher in a new world. She is the founder of Heal My Voice, a Writing and Transition Coach, Orgasmic Meditation Teacher and co- author of Conscious Choices: An Evolutionary Woman’s Guide to Life. Andrea has discovered her unique gifts while parenting three daughters and learning to celebrate life after the deaths of her brother, son and husband. She currently lives in Los Angeles following the inspiration to collaborate with women in organizations and to travel around the world speaking and leading workshops. Her passion is connecting women to support each other in the full expression of who they are.

Fearless Voices: A Foreword

By Andrea Hylen, Founder of Heal My Voice

Yesterday I wrote a blog about the difference between a Foreword, an Introduction and more… You can read the details here.

As one example, here is the Foreword in the first Heal My Voice Book:

Fearless Voices: True Stories by Courageous Women

Foreword by Claudia Carawan

We asked Claudia to write the Foreword because her song Fearless was the inspiration for the topic of the book. We asked her to write about what Fearless meant to her and to tell us about writing the song Fearless. She did include a short paragraph about the writers because she met them at an event and then read some of their stories. That is not a necessary part of the Foreword.

FOREWORD

By Claudia Carawan

I was going through a time in my life where I was experiencing a lot of change. I had quit my stable office job to pursue my dream of being a songwriter and recording artist. Although it was a time of growth for me, it was a challenging time because nothing was easy. Every day presented new challenges and I felt vulnerable. I recall one day in a moment of frustration announcing to my husband “I’m tired of feeling afraid!”

Shortly thereafter as I was writing in my journal, I heard a new song in my head. It was a melody that demanded my immediate attention, so I stopped what I was doing and sat down at the piano to capture it. The song felt very joy-filled. I knew intuitively that this melody demanded a dynamic lyric –a powerful lyric. I quickly grabbed a pen and started scratching out some lyrics. I was creating what is called in song writing circles, a “list song.” In a state of clarity I listed all the qualities I wished to posses. I tweaked and edited with reckless abandon and soon I was looking at the first draft of a brand new song called Fearless.

Fearless

I was born to live life fully

To let go of regret

To walk the high wire of life without a safety net

To follow something even bigger than my pride

To show up with courage even when I’m trembling inside

I will not worry about what others think of me

and I will not be shackled by the chains of conformity

I’ll break the mold set in the past

Keep pushing til I’m free at last

I’ll follow the path of my heart

and make my life a work of art

Call me fearless. I am fearless!

I will follow the road to adventure everywhere

I’ll let the top down and let the wind tangle up my hair

Hitch my dreams onto the brightest star

on the trapeze of life, I’ll throw my heart over the bar

On the other side of fear there lies euphoria

and a better understanding of who you really are

I’ll break the mold set in the past

keep pushing til I’m free at last

I’ll follow the path of my heart

and make my life a work of art

Call me fearless. I am fearless!

I’ll push outside the comfort zone

remembering I’m not alone

I’ll follow the path of my heart

and make my life a work of art

Call me fearless. I am fearless!

I believe creativity, when expressed is a powerful tool for personal growth. This highly personal song, seemed to be the perfect anthem for me to sing, to help me transition through the discomfort of feeling afraid. I was thrilled with the song and how quickly it emerged with relatively no struggle. I didn’t realize it at the time, but I was in the “honeymoon phase” of creation –my joy was short-lived. The next day I looked at the lyric sheet and had a very different reaction.

This song is CRAP, I thought. I can’t sing these words with any integrity.

As I dug deeper to examine my 180 degree shift in feelings, I realized the underlying emotion I was experiencing was fear. I was concerned I would never live up to the lyrics.

I took a deep breath, realizing that I had to (at least) get a second opinion of the song. I recorded a rough draft of the song and sent it to my no-nonsense producer Jody Boyd. Jody is a straight shooter who doesn’t mince words. Jody said “Claudia, I like this Fearless song… I think it’s a hit, and furthermore, I think it should be the title track of your next CD!” Being stubborn and still feeling ambivalent about the song, I sent a collection of songs (including Fearless) to my girlfriend Zita to get her feedback. I simply asked her to listen to the collection of songs and provide me feedback. Zita called me the next day as she was driving to work. She said, “Girl… I’m real busy right now, so I got one word for you… FEARLESS!” “What? I stammered.” Zita continued, “In one word, this collection of music is Fearless, and by the way, I love that song!”

I decided that it was time for me to stop the insanity. Despite my trepidation, I realized this new song was an opportunity for me to push outside the comfort zone and declare my freedom over ridiculous fears. I had written a personal manifesto to help me live a more authentic life.

I recorded the song with every ounce of power and liberation I could muster. The vocal was recorded using a vintage microphone (Neumann M-49) that “queen of soul” Aretha Franklin had previously recorded with. Singing into that microphone, there was no doubt in my mind that I was indeed fearless!

Looking back I find it deliciously ironic that I was afraid of this song called Fearless. I am glad I recorded the song because it has served as a reminder to me (on many occasions) to live large and do my best. Many people have shared that the song was helpful to them as they pushed outside their comfort zones. Fearlessness is about giving yourself permission to be the authentic person you were created to be and showing up with courage (even when you’re trembling inside).

This collaborative book Fearless Voices: True Stories by Courageous Women tells the fearless journey of twenty-two amazing women and how they overcame the (nagging voice of fear) to step into their fearless, authentic nature. At the heart of each story is a woman consciously walking through uncertainty to become stronger, fuller and more radiant.

I celebrate with them as together we make our lives a work of art.

Claudia Carawan is a positively soulful singer/songwriter and recording artist who specializes in high energy, inspirational music. She has produced two award winning CDs Out of the Blue and Fearless. Her empowering music and YouTube videos are gaining fans from far and wide and give new meaning to the words – POSITIVELY SOULFUL.

Speaker, Workshop Facilitator and Teacher

Claudia also works as a teacher and mentor to at-risk teenagers in a treatment facility. Using music, story-telling and theater Claudia loves to inspire the hip-hop generation and help them discover their creative abilities.

www.claudiacarawan.com

Cultivating Leadership

There was a period in my life where I discovered the rich experience of cultivating leaders vs being the person in charge who had all the answers. The experience of working as a Girl Scout leader for 10 years changed the way I saw my role as a leader and expanded me as a person. I learned that my style of leadership was to find ways of empowering others and create an environment for them grow into being more of who they are. I learned when to stand on the stage and when to stand quietly in the background. I learned how to hold a space for someone’s leadership skills to emerge.

One year, a mother of one of the girls from my troop was organizing a court of awards ceremony at a large community event. Our troop was to provide Girl Scouts and flags from our troop for the ceremony. One of the Junior Girl Scouts named Mariam came to me and said she would like to be in the ceremony. She would like to carry a flag. When I mentioned this to the mother who was organizing the ceremony her immediate response was no because Mariam was too loud and boisterous and would never settle down for this serious ceremony. The mother said that Mariam would embarrass our troop by joking and laughing.

I disagreed with her. She was right about Mariam’s energy being loud and boisterous. Mariam had a big personality and she liked to push this limits. She was oozing with power and enthusiasm and was still learning how to channel it into creativity. She was a very talented artist and was full of life. For five years, I had watched her grow as she learned how to harness and use and direct her personal power. I believed that if she said she wanted be a part of this ceremony she would be able to focus and do the job. I knew my role was to support her and provide another experience that would lead her to become a powerful young woman. It was not to create a perfect ceremony. I stood up for Mariam, talked to the mother about giving each of the girls a chance to develop leadership skills and told her this was an opportunity for Mariam to stretch herself into a new situation. The mother reluctantly agreed.

I talked with Mariam about her desire. I let her know that I believed in her and that I stood up for her. I let her know that it was up to her to show us what she could do. This was her opportunity to be a leader for our troop and in the community.

On the day of the ceremony Mariam was excited and nervous. I gave her a hug, looked her in the eyes, told her I believed in her and encouraged her to enjoy the experience. Serious did not mean she couldn’t have fun and enjoy it. I was so proud of Mariam as I watched her stand up straight and proudly carry the flag. There was a moment when Mariam’s friend Katie, who was carrying a flag in the ceremony and walking next to Mariam, began to giggle. No one ever imagined that Katie would be the one to disrupt the ceremony during a moment of silence in the room. Mariam did not react. She stayed focused on honoring the flag, the ceremony and herself. She led the way and demonstrated a new leadership.

Experiences with the Girl Scouts is what helped me to form the structure for Heal My Voice programs and the Board of Directors for Heal My Voice. Creating environments for women to be leaders in the same space. Excavating desire and fanning the flames of that desire. Witnessing the emergence of a fuller expression of their leadership through writing, speaking and greater visibility on social media. Knowing when to listen, when to speak and when to shout my message from the mountaintop. Being inspired by the brilliant shining lights of women and receiving their inspiration.

(Photo of Authors of Heal My Voice project: Fearless Voices: True Stories by Courageous Women. )

I am grateful to all of the Girl Scouts and parents who provided such a rich learning experience for my own leadership to emerge. I am grateful to the women in Heal My Voice programs (over 100 women now!) who have trusted me to hold some of their most vulnerable, precious thoughts as they write a story to heal. In August, I am taking all of those experiences as I travel to Sweden and meet with Heal My Voice Sweden women in person.

What are you noticing with your leadership style? What is shifting and changing? What are your experiences? Post in the comments. We want to hear Your Voice!

To connect with Andrea and learn about current projects go to: www.andreahylen.com

Finding Our Voice, Living Our Heart

By Beth Terrence ~ Heal My Voice Author, Facilitator & Board Member

Being vulnerable doesn’t have to be threatening. Just have the courage to be sincere, open and honest. This opens the door to deeper communication all around. It creates self-empowerment and the kind of connections with others we all want in life. Speaking from the heart frees us from the secrets that burden us. These secrets are what make us sick or fearful. Speaking truth helps you get clarity on your real heart directives.” – Sara Paddison, The Hidden Power of the Heart

It took me until my early thirties to really accept that in order to live a life of authenticity and truth I needed to make a paradigm shift. This shift was based on moving the guiding force in my life from the mind to the heart. I’ve been blessed to have many teachers along the way who have shared their heart wisdom and who have helped me to find the courage and strength to access my own vulnerability.

I grew up in a world where “everything was okay”, all the time. Even when things were really not okay, when they were chaotic and at times, insane, the messages I received were that we didn’t talk about that, we just said, “I’m fine, everything is okay.” Needless to say, it was very confusing and it didn’t take long for me to have the awareness that what people share with the world and what is really going on in the their lives, let alone inside themselves, is vastly different.

The “I’m fine, everything is okay” was my paradigm for a long time. Even as I began to do some deeper work, to explore my inner landscape, and to access my emotions, there was still a part of me who held onto to that pattern. In fact, at times, it still emerges today. I believe this pattern is inherent for many of us and is one of the great obstacles to shifting into the new paradigm.

I see this on both the personal and collective levels. As individuals, when we say, “I am fine, everything is okay,” and it is not what we are feeling, we are denying a part of ourselves and we are denying our own truth. We are also putting a wall around our heart that is then forced to hold in and suppress what our true experience is at that time.

On a larger scale, we all see and experience things in the world that are not okay. And, we do focus on those things and address them in a variety of ways. I wonder what things could look like if we all really spoke up about our true feelings about what goes on in our world. Most often, it is anger that is the driving force to speak up and/or take action. But if we were to go into the depths of our heart, what would we share about our world and what might we feel that really needs to be spoken?

One of the tools I have found that supports this opening is the process of Council, which is based on traditional talking circles used by many indigenous peoples. When we come together in a council or circle, our intention is to share our hearts and our truth, tuning into what is arising in the present moment. A talking piece is used to indicate that whoever is holding the piece is the only speaker at that time and the others circle members are listening until it is their turn to have the piece.

The council process can support communication, self-awareness, collective wisdom, relationship, community building, and peacemaking. Council is one of the tools we utilize as part of the Heal My Voice Chrysalis House Program and it’s principles are inherent in the structure of all of the Heal My Voice projects.

Although Council is usually done in a group, the principles of Council are a powerful tool that can be used in creating a shift into the new paradigm and particularly in breaking the old pattern of “I’m fine, everything is okay”. It is way to step out of the mind and into the space of the heart to access our deeper feelings and allow truth to emerge in a space of safety, respect and acceptance, both with ourselves and others.

Here are some of the basic principles of Council, which can be used to support a group process or as a foundation for living daily life in a more authentic and conscious way:

1) Listen from the heart. Take a few moments to drop down from the head into the heart space. Whether you are in circle listening to others, or tuning into your own heart wisdom, listen with openness, knowing there is no need to give advice or feedback. We often feel that we must have answers for other people and really what we need is to be heard and to have our heart sharing witnessed. So much healing comes from the place of listening and sharing. As we listen from a heart-centered place, we are being more fully present and allowing our own vulnerability to emerge. Also, where we really need to begin this shift is in listening to our own hearts and being willing to hear our own true feelings without trying to suppress, resolve or fix them.

2) Speak from the heart. Take a few moments to be still, to drop from your head into your heart and allow what is true for you in that moment to be arise. This may be something you need to practice with yourself as well as others. Before we are able to become vulnerable with others, it is necessary to be willing to be vulnerable and truly honest with ourselves. Speaking does not have to mean words; it can include sound, song, and even silence. In Council, the intention is to speak what will serve you, the circle and the highest good. This is a great way to think about what we need to communicate.

3) Be lean. Focus on what is important and what is really at the heart of the matter. We often have many thoughts circling round and round in our minds but when we drop into the heart space, it takes few words to express what we feel and what is important. This practice fosters clarity and understanding.

4) Be spontaneous. When you allow yourself to drop into the heart space, you may be surprised by what arises. We often think we are going to talk about one thing and then when we allow ourselves to move below the surface, something very different emerges. Allowing ourselves to be spontaneous and let go of agenda allows for playfulness, real-ness and our true voice to emerge.

One thing I would like to add to this list is patience. Shifting into a heart-centered way of being is a process. The heart moves much slower than the mind. As the energies of our world are moving faster and faster, the need to slow down and drop into this heart space is even greater. I encourage you to take some time to explore your heart, to access your vulnerability and to allow your deeper truth to emerge.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, feelings and reflections.

And, if you are ready to explore this more deeply, I invite you to join me for Love Yourself, Live Your Life Summer Breakthrough Teleclass Program starting 7/22. Learn more…

Beth Terrence is a Shaman, Holistic Health & Wellness Expert, Speaker and Writer. She has been working in the field of Holistic Healing and Transformation for over 18 years. This path evolved from her own healing journey through fibromyalgia and the impact of trauma on her life. Beth found that by taking a holistic approach to life and well-being, she was able to achieve of a state of happiness and wholeness that she never imagined was possible. Her mission is to support others in cultivating a heart-centered, balanced and joyful life through discovering the healer within.

Where To Connect With Beth:

Website: www.bethterrence.com

Blog: http://theheartofawakening.wordpress.com

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/bethterrence

Twitter: @BethTerrence

Contact: beth@bethterrence.com

Sacred Sanctuary Writing Space

A few years ago, I was inspired to create a space for Heal My Voice writers to gather and energetically receive support and consistency for writing. I called it the Sacred Sanctuary Writing Space. Every month, I create 12 audio recordings on the first 12 days of every month with an inspiration and silent time to write.

I cut words and phrases out of magazines and collect them in plastic sandwich bags. Every day, I close my eyes and connect with the energy of the day. Then, I reach in to the bag and pull out a clipping.

I begin the recording with some thoughts about the words and then “open the space” for 25 minutes of silence. At the end of the 25 minutes, I say a few words and end the recording.

It is a tool and a resource for setting up a time and space to write.

Here is the recording from July 1, 2014:

The phrase is ” The Guide: Home”

Enjoy!

Sacred Sanctuary Writing Space:

July 1, 2014

http://instantteleseminar.com/?eventid=57217512

To connect with Andrea and learn about current projects go to: www.andreahylen.com

Blogs by Heal My Voice Authors: July 13, 2014

During the month of July, we are shining a light on the Heal My Voice Authors. Every Sunday, the Heal My Voice blog will have a list of blog posts from some of the authors.

So…it’s Sunday, July 13 and week 2 of sharing powerful voices of women! Check out the blogs and leave comments. We want to hear your voice, too.

YOUR VOICE MATTERS!

Fearless Voices: True Stories by Courageous Women

Empowered Voices: True Stories by Awakened Women

Inspired Voices: True Stories by Visionary Women

Harmonic Voices: True Stories by Women on the Path to Peace

Authors:

Transition: Becoming the Queen

By Andrea Hylen

Transition: Becoming the Queen

Creating Healthy Boundaries~Stops Your Suffering

By Marilyn O’Malley

http://www.marilynomalley.com/2014/07/boundaries/

It’s My Birthday!

By Karen Porter

http://www.mamaporter.com/2014/07/birthday/

Radical Disruption

By Karen Ribeiro

http://www.innerfortune.com/radical-disruption/

On My Mind: The Good Little Changes That Make a Big Difference

By Ann Quasman

http://womantalklive.com/2014/07/10/on-my-mind-the-good-little-changes-that-make-a-big-difference/

Love Yourself. Live Your Life. Summer Breakthrough Program

By Beth Terrence

http://theheartofawakening.wordpress.com/2014/07/12/love-yourself-live-your-life-summer-breakthrough-program/

The Body’s Reality

By Adrienne Yeardye

http://adrienneyeardye.com/the-bodys-reality/

Empowering Women In Addiction Recovery Through Writing & Creativity

By Beth Terrence ~ Heal My Voice Author, Facilitator & Board Member

For the past year, I have had the privilege to work on a pilot Heal My Voice project that brings writing, journaling and creativity to women who are in long-term residential addictions treatment. This project grew out of my work with the two non-profits that I volunteer with – Heal My Voice and Chrysalis House. This program developed organically when I shared some magazines with the Chrysalis House that had an article I had written on 7 Ways To Cultivate Love & Compassion For Yourself, based on a post from this blog. It also featured an article about Heal My Voice founder Andrea Hylen. One of the clients at Chrysalis House was so interested in the Heal My Voice program that she reached out through her caseworker to Andrea directly. This empowered step led to Heal My Voice offering a 3-hour writing and creativity workshop at Chrysalis House in Crownsville, MD in May of 2013.

Little did we know at the time that this one event would open the door to a whole new Heal My Voice program. The mission of Heal My Voice is as follows:

Heal My Voice empowers and supports women and girls globally to heal, reclaim their voice and step into greater leadership in their lives and in the world.

I have participated in several Heal My Voice writing programs and over the last year joined as a facilitator and board member as well. After our initial workshop, there was such an amazing response from the clients at Chrysalis House, that we were asked to come back on a regular basis. This has led to me leading a weekly writing circle in addition to a 3-hour monthly creativity workshop, which is supported by other local Heal My Voice authors. Adapting the original Heal My Voice program model to a residential treatment program has been an expansive experience. During this time, I have been working closely with Heal My Voice Founder Andrea Hylen who attends the program when she is on the East Coast. What has emerged is the foundation for a program model that can brought to other addictions treatment programs and recovery centers around the country.

I have truly been awed by the words that have emerged from the women of Chrysalis House. Journaling was something that was always recommended but without facilitation the staff found it wasn’t really happening. By creating a space for writing and creativity, and offering tools and techniques to support self-expression, journaling has become an important part of the each women’s journey in recovery. This is something that is initiated in the treatment process but offers a powerful tool to support ongoing healing and recovery.

Here are some of the words from one of the women in the program:

My Own Prison

I’ve built my own prison inside of me,
It doesn’t consist of a warden or a key.
The walls are layered with bricks of emotions,
The bars are made of rage,
You couldn’t imagine the hell and commotion.

First a foundation built from addiction,
Then the floors are laid of abuse and confliction.
Every brick in the wall has it’s own tale;
I was warned to change but to no avail.

So I ask myself now,
“Was it all worth all this pain?”
The deteriorating life I tried so hard to sustain.
The very reality of being confined;
Holds no comparison to the shackles on my mind.

I know my day will come when I’ll be released,
But the question still lies, “will I really be free”?
Not free from confinement but free from the chains,
That are linked from my heart to my mind that remains.

The power of these words speaks to the impact of this project and how writing can be a vehicle for freedom through self-expression. The Chrysalis House program is just completing it’s first year and we are in the process of creating a book of writing from the women who have participated so far. The message we share with our community at large is :

“YOUR VOICE MATTERS”

This the message we try to bring home to the women of Chrysalis House and so giving them a platform to see their words in print is a way to reflect this message to them.

We invite you to more about the Heal My Voice Chrysalis House Program and if you feel to support this grassroots project, monetary or in-kind donations are always appreciated . In addition to funding for the administration of the program itself, we continually provide materials for clients to make their own journals as well as other creative projects. We are always in need of the following items:

Composition Books

Glue Sticks

Packing Tape

Scissors

Markers

Art & Craft Materials

Here are some of the journals created by the amazing women of Chrysalis House:

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Learn more at www.bethterrence.com or check out her new teleclass program starting July 22nd:

Love Yourself, Live Your Life
Summer Breakthrough Program
With Beth Terrence
5-Session Teleclass

Do you want to live more from the heart?

Is it a struggle to be gentle and loving with yourself?

Are you ready to step into your soul purpose from a space of the heart?

Does your inner critic keep you stuck?

Do you want to have a deeper sense of connection with yourself, others and the world?

In this 5-Session Teleclass, you will:

Learn to connect with your heart on a deeper level and live more from the heart space.

Cultivate love and compassion for yourself using a variety of transformational tools including meditation, shamanic journey work, affirmations, self-reflection and creative exercises.

Uncover limiting beliefs and obstacles that prevent you from embodying greater love and compassion for your self and others and also, keep you from moving forward in your life.

Learn to access your essential self and embody your soul purpose from the space of the heart

Begin to facilitate your own process of transformation and healing and create a foundation to continue that process in your life.

Dates: Tuesday, July 22nd – August 19th

Time: 7:00 – 8:00 EST

Where: Wherever You Are – Call in by phone or listen online

Audio replays will be available after the weekly call

Basic Package $97, includes

– 5 weekly teleclass sessions

– an mp3 audio of calls

– weekly transformational resource handouts

– private Facebook discussion group, plus

– 2 special audio bonuses

Register by July 14th for Special Pricing ~ $77

Premium Package $247, includes

– Basic Program plus

– One 1 1/2 hour Individual Session with Beth Terrence in person in Annapolis, MD or By PHONE/SKYPE

– 31 Day May If For Metta Guided Audio Program

Register by July 14th for Special Pricing $227

Are you ready to embrace the truth of who you are –

a being full of loving-kindness and compassion?

How much longer do you want to continue struggling?

Do you want the heart to be a guiding force in your life?

The journey begins with you!

REGISTER NOW THRU EVENTBRITE

Creating a Writing Space

By Andrea Hylen, Founder and Executive Director of Heal My Voice

When I moved to California in 2010, I was in a huge transition. My husband had died in 2005 after a year long illness. I had been a stay-at-home mom and was homeschooling our youngest daughter. I had been out of the work force for 15 years.

Moving to California gave me a chance to start over. For the first 7 months, my daughter and I lived in youth hostels, extended stay hotels, sublet a room until we agreed on a location and found an apt in Burbank.

I found the “bridge” to the next part of my life through writing to heal. Listening to my own voice and following the inspiration one word after another. The first key to writing was to create a writing routine and space.

Here are some of my tips:

*****

Create a writing environment

*Develop a writing habit

1) Writing in the same place

2) Writing at the same time of day

When my daughter and I moved to Burbank, I developed a habit of going to a coffee shop called Priscilla’s. Every morning, I woke up at 5:30am, meditated for 15 minutes, got dressed and walked the 10 minute walk to Priscilla’s. I would write every morning from about 6-9am.

During the walk, the ideas would begin to flow. I would wave a Good morning to the barista while I opened my computer and took out a notebook and pen. The article or blog or chapter would be pouring through me by the time my fingers touched the keyboard.

3) Playing music

Every morning I would play the same song. During that time it was Jason Mraz’s “Make it Mine”. The sound of the song would stimulate ideas and structure for my words.

4) Setting a boundary: Create a boundary with time. In the coffee shop, I wore headphones even without listening to something. I let people know that I was writing. Other ideas around setting a boundary are to talk with people you live with and let them know you are writing during a specific time. Put a sign on the door. Set a timer and write for that amount of time. Make your writing time a priority.

5) Basic security needs: Take care of your basic needs before starting to write. Food, beverage, temperature of the room. Clean or messy space. Whatever helps you to feel physically comfortable and nourished.

6) Supplies: What do you need? Computer, pens, pencils, internet, dictionary, phone, materials for researching. Headphones.

7) Clear all distractions: Phone call you need to make, errands to run, do a brain dump. Make a list and keep it on the table next to you so you can write down things you will do later. The coffee shop worked for me because of the boundaries and the time of day. No distractions from things in my apartment.

8) Senses: What do you need to relax into writing? Think of all five senses, Eyes, ears, nose, mouth, touch. Candles, flower essences, a blanket, lighting, color. Set up a space that works for you.

9) Timing: Allow for a writing flow and take breaks.

10) Creativity inspirations– Observing the environment around you, inside and out. Taking a class, exercising, reading books. Writing prompts. Walking to the coffee shop and the people who came in stimulated me creatively.

Now, find your space and start writing!

To connect with Andrea and learn about current projects go to: www.andreahylen.com

Journaling For Reconnection Podcast

By Beth Terrence

Heal My Voice Author and Board Member

Earlier this year, I was a guest on a podcast hosted by Nathan Ohren of JournalTalk, a wonderful online resource on journaling for passion, clarity and purpose. The topic was “Reconnection To Self”. We had a great chat and it really got me thinking about journaling, which has been a part of my life for a long time. I feel like this conversation is part of what has led me to do some of my recent posts on journaling and writing for health and well-being.

We covered quite a bit during the show and even talked about Heal My Voice and our Chrysalis House project, which supports women in long-term addiction recovery to heal through writing and sharing their stories – journaling is a core part of this program. For today’s post, I thought I’d share a link to the podcast as well as an overview of some of the questions we covered below. I hope you’ll take some time to listen and also, be sure to check all of the great podcasts and resources offered on JournalTalk.

Listen To Podcast

Here are some highlights of the interview:

– When did you start journaling

As a kid, I always like to write and play with words, but I really started journaling when I was in 6th grade. I was introduced to it by a teacher who had us keep a journal and as I had already enjoyed writing, it was a natural fit. I have kept journals on and off throughout my whole life, sometimes writing daily, sometimes dropping off a bit but always coming back to the page.

– How do you like to keep a journal? What do you use?

My journal style has varied over the years. Currently I like to use a large sketchbook which I decorate with collage on the outside as well as on some of the pages. There’s something about the blank page without lines that I love and also sometimes I may add a drawing or sketch an idea out there, too. I like to write everyday but unlike other times when I was set on morning pages or evening reflections, I like to be organic about when I journal. I love it when I have a day when I can head out to the café and have an almond milk chai and do some journaling. Also, sometimes I keep a couple of journals – if I am working on an issue, I may create a specific journal for it and I always keep a separate self-care journal. Also, there are times I like to keep a typed journal, too.

– Do you ever go back and read your old journal entries? What have you learned about yourself?

I do like to go through old journals sometimes to reflect. It is great to see where I have been and where I am now. I find it interesting that in some ways I am very different and in others still the same as when I was younger. I know I have healed a lot of pain. And, I have really grown as a writer.

– What are the top 2 or 3 benefits you’ve experienced about journaling?

I would say the benefits to me are having an avenue for self-reflection, self-awareness, and letting go of what’s in my head ~ it creates a space to see myself more clearly. Also, it enhances creativity and has helped me to explore writing and my ideas. It’s kind of like my own sacred space!

– Typed? or hand-written?

Both, but more hand-written for journaling. For other writing, more typed.

– What’s your favorite place to write in your journal?

Anywhere really. I like to go sit out in nature sometimes, or just on my deck when the weather is nice. Also, I love to go to cafes to journal and write.

– What else is interesting about your journaling style?

I would say that my style varies between free-writing or stream of consciousness and list making, such as feelings, ideas, self-care reviews, etc. I also really use my journal as a working tool in my life for self-direction and for discovering how to flow with my work as well.

Happy Journaling!

Learn more at www.bethterrence.com or check out her new teleclass program starting July 22nd:

Love Yourself, Live Your Life

Summer Breakthrough Program

With Beth Terrence

5-Session Teleclass

Do you want to live more from the heart?

Is it a struggle to be gentle and loving with yourself?

Are you ready to step into your soul purpose from a space of the heart?

Does your inner critic keep you stuck?

Do you want to have a deeper sense of connection with yourself, others and the world?

In this 5-Session Teleclass, you will:

Learn to connect with your heart on a deeper level and live more from the heart space.

Cultivate love and compassion for yourself using a variety of transformational tools including meditation, shamanic journey work, affirmations, self-reflection and creative exercises.

Uncover limiting beliefs and obstacles that prevent you from embodying greater love and compassion for your self and others and also, keep you from moving forward in your life.

Learn to access your essential self and embody your soul purpose from the space of the heart

Begin to facilitate your own process of transformation and healing and create a foundation to continue that process in your life.

Dates: Tuesday, July 22nd – August 19th

Time: 7:00 – 8:00 EST

Where: Wherever You Are – Call in by phone or listen online

Audio replays will be available after the weekly call

Basic Package $97, includes

– 5 weekly teleclass sessions

– an mp3 audio of calls

– weekly transformational resource handouts

– private Facebook discussion group, plus

– 2 special audio bonuses

Register by July 14th for Special Pricing ~ $77

Premium Package $247, includes

– Basic Program plus

– One 1 1/2 hour Individual Session with Beth Terrence in person in Annapolis, MD or By PHONE/SKYPE

– 31 Day May If For Metta Guided Audio Program

Register by July 14th for Special Pricing $227

Are you ready to embrace the truth of who you are –

a being full of loving-kindness and compassion?

How much longer do you want to continue struggling?

Do you want the heart to be a guiding force in your life?

The journey begins with you!

REGISTER NOW THRU EVENTBRITE