Soul Satisfying Journeys: Miracles at Medjugorje

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

(June 25, 2012) Medjugorje is a small mountain town located in western Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the Herzegovina region, close to the border of Croatia. Since June 24, 1981, it has become a popular religious pilgrimage due to reports of apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary to six local children.

This entire journey was a miracle from the start. Flying to Medjugorje is no easy task. Tonio started to call the airline for tickets several months in advance, always running into obstacles. Finally, after numerous amounts of phone calls, scheduling attempts and extremely expensive ticket prices, Tonio felt, "if the Virgin wants us to come, we will leave it up to her." Weeks would go by and occasionally, Tonio would pick up the phone and call the airlines. The later it got to the day we wanted to go, the more difficult (and unavailable) the tickets became. Then, on a Saturday (the day of the Virgin), Tonio called the airline and got a representative who happened to be originally from Croatia. She said, "I will help you to get there." She recommended the best route to go and was able to use all our frequent flyer miles to get there! This was the first miracle.

The easiest route was through London and then Dubrovnik, a spectacular city on the Adriatic Sea of Croatia. It is one of the most prominent tourist destinations on the Adriatic. Dubrovnik is among the 10 best medieval walled cities in the world and among the 10 best places in the world for a fairytale proposal of the Valentine's Day. Although in 1991, after the breakup of Yugoslavia, it was besieged by Serb-Montenegrin forces for 7 months and received significant shelling damage. Following the end of the war, damage caused by the shelling of the Old Town was repaired. Adhering to UNESCO guidelines, repairs were performed in the original style. Today, peace reigns over this region and being there, you would never know there was such turmoil.

Dubrovnik is a beautiful jewel, perched on the azure Adriatic sea. The waters are spotted with over 175 islands and watercraft of all kind take advantage of these special places. We spent the first day of summer, swimming in the buoyant and healing salt waters along its rocky coastline. Later, we made our way to the Old Town where we had a fantastic seafood dinner alongside the ramparts of Fort Lovrjenac.

We then strolled through the Fort and Old Town. As you cross over the bridge and through the ancient walls, you are greeted by the Placa or stone main street, called Stradun. It traverses this great city, offering patrons many restaurants, shops and ancient attractions such as the massive Onofrio's Fountain, a polygonal fountain with 16 stone carved maskerons from which the water flows. Across from the fountain is the Franciscan church and monastery with its beautiful Baroque style courtyard and next to this is St. Saviour's Church. There are several other churches including Our Lady of Sigurata, the convent of The Transfiguration of Christ, founded in the 13th century, the Dominican church and monastery and St. Nichola's church, one of the oldest 11th century pre-Romanesque buildings. Perched on a high hill is the Cathedral of Assumption. It's large present-day vaulted ceilings, done in the Roman Baroque style, were designed in 1713. Then, there is St. Blaise's Church. The Romanesque church of the patron saint of Dubrovnik, St. Blaise, was damaged in the earthquake of 1667, and destroyed by fire in 1706. In 1715 Venetian architect Marino Gropelli constructed the completely new present-day church in Venetian Baroque style.

Saint Blaise has been the patron saint of the city of Dubrovnik since 972 and formerly the protector of the independent Republic. His image can be seen everywhere, overlooking the city as guide and protector. In Dubrovnik, his feast is celebrated yearly on February 3rd, when relics of the saint are paraded in honor of his name. Saint Blaise was a physician, and bishop of Sebastea. He was martyred by being attacked with iron carding combs, beaten and beheaded. Blaise is often shown with the instruments of his martyrdom, steel combs. He blessed throats and effected many miracles. He is considered the patron saint of wool combers and the wool trade in general. He may also be depicted with crossed candles. These candles are used for the blessing of throats on his feast day. St. Blaise is traditionally believed to intercede in cases of throat illnesses, especially for fish-bones stuck in the throat.

The City Harbor of Dubrovnik is a vibrant, bustling attraction filled with boats of all shapes and sizes. Cargo and recreational vessels still traverse these waters. Built on sea rock at the foot of Mount Srd, the City of Dubrovnik is a perfect example of medieval construction and the harbor has brought life to this merchant republic for over 700 years.

Croatia has many varieties of flora and wonderful vineyards, as well as lemon and orange plantations. Rich in predominantly pine, palms, agaves, cactus and olive trees, there are also striking cypress trees that stretch skyward, giving this Mediterranean landscape a unique look.

The following day, we wanted to leave for Medjugorje. The problem was that the public bus only left at the end of the day at 5pm. The local tour buses only went to Medjugorje on Wednesday and Sundays and this particular day happened to be Thursday and my birthday! After some investigating, we had the luck and the pleasure of a private car and driver to take us to Medjugorje. The two and half hour journey was a wonderful way to see the countryside as you traverse through three of the seven countries that was once Yugoslavia. The winding coastline of Croatian allowed us to see the precious beaches, steep cliffs and beautiful bays.

On our way through the Peljesac Peninsula, our driver suggested we stop in the town of Ston. This small, quiet town in Croatia has a well kept secret - a Great Wall, hundreds of years old which is the longest, complete fortress system around a town in Europe as well as the second in the world next to China! Yet very few seem to have heard of the Walls of Ston. When they were built, beginning in the fifteenth century, they were heavily fortified not only to serve as a first line of defense for the city of Dubrovnik but they were constructed to protect a precious commodity of Croatia - sea salt and the salt mines. Nestled alongside this unique structure and town, is Mali Ston Bay. It is here that the infamous Ston Oysters are farmed.

Crossing the border from Croatia into Bosnia and Herzegovina happens twice, as the road between them is in part, split between the countries. The border between Bosnia and Herzegovina is only recognized by a sudden change in scenery. In Bosnia, you pass through hilly, wooded terrain. The soil is black and the mountains rolling and green. Passing into Herzegovina, we found ourselves surrounded by white limestone mountains, dusty brown soil and low ground covering brush and tumbleweed. It is here that the Dinaric Alps, the southernmost reaches of the Swiss Alps, become a wave of tall, jagged rock, that then spills into the sea. This younger mountain range is an emphatically karst area (made up of chalky limestone) with stretches of limestone expanses, coves, basins and funnel shaped holes in the limestone formation. As we drove a little ways into Herzegovina, we turned up into the hills following a small dirt road eventually leading us up a mountain pass into the town of Medjugorje.

The car dropped us off at a little hotel on the edge of town, about a 15 minute walk from the St. James Parish Church. We quickly washed up as we were eager to discover this holy place. 10 am in the morning and the sun was already scorching hot as we walked through town. The new St. James Church is a simple parish church. The construction of the old parish church was completed in 1897 but soon after, it started to develop cracks in the foundation, due to it being built on unstable ground. Shortly after the end of the First World War, the parishioners began to think about building a new church. Construction lasted from 1934 until January 19, 1969, when it was consecrated. Today St. James Church is the focus and center of both sacramental and prayer life, not only for the parishioners, but also for the millions of pilgrims that come each year. Because of the new needs of the parish, an exterior altar was built behind the church in 1989 and the surrounding prayer area extending outward with about 5000 seats, is a place of gathering in the summer time and for big feasts, reciting the rosary and prayer services.

Behind the church, a promenade was built, the Via Domini (the Way of the Lord), which starts with the Mysteries of Light and connects the old town cemetery to the newest addition, The Risen Christ statue. The statue is the work of a Slovenian artist Andrej Ajdic given to the parish on Easter, 1998. One of the many beautiful gifts of Medjugorje, standing 15 feet tall, this statue of the crucified Christ has been exuding a special liquid from one knee, continuously since the 20th anniversary of the apparitions in 2001. Although the nature of the liquid is mysterious, the fact is, it has begun to increase and now the unknown substance flows from both knees of this bronze sculpture. We stepped up to the statue and embraced his legs. We then took turns stepping up on the wooden steps wiping the endless flow of liquid on to handkerchiefs we bought in town. This was the second miracle.

Early the following morning, just before sunrise, we took a taxi to the base of Apparition Hill. It is here, that the Blessed Virgin Mary or Gospa, as the locals refer to her as, has been appearing to the six children, (the visionaries), since June 24, 1981. Ivan, Jakov, Marija, Mirjana, Vicka, and Ivanka have been receiving messages from Our Lady, in the beginning on a daily basis. Our Lady began to give weekly messages on Thursdays to the parish community in Medjugorje, and through them to the rest of the world. Since some of the things that Our Lord desired were fulfilled, from the 25th of January 1987 onwards, Our Lady would give her monthly message on the 25th of each month. This has continued up until the present.

Crnica Hill is several hundred feet above the Bijakovici town called Podbrdo, but today called Apparition Hill. The journey to the top was a dangerous path of sharp and jagged limestone. This porous rock dissolves relatively easily by rain, winter ice and the thousands of pilgrims that climb the mountain wearing down the stone over time. This action creates holes and sharp edges. As we climbed the mountain at dawn, there were several people who were barefoot. In 1989, beautiful bronze statues, the work of artist Carmelo Puzzolo, were placed representing the joyful and the sorrowful mysteries of the Rosary, going up the mountain. In June 2002, bronze statues representing the glorious mysteries of the Rosary were placed on the path descending towards the Blue Cross. At the foot of Apparition Hill is the Blue Cross, placed there in 1985. At this place, Ivan the visionaries' prayer group gathers regularly, ever since July 4th, 1982. Going up the mountain, we stopped to admire the fine craftsmanship and say a prayer. On the way towards the location of the apparitions, a large wooden cross was erected, denoting the place where visionary Marija, on the third day of the apparitions, Our Lady gave the call to peace for the first time. "Peace, peace, peace - and only peace! Peace must reign between God and man and between men!"

At the very place of the apparitions, honoring the 20th anniversary, a statue of the Queen of Peace was placed. It was here that Tonio and I knelt on the rocks to say the rosary. Looking out from the top of the mountain, the town and parishes of Medjugorje stretch out through the blissful looking valley. There was only a handful of people on the hilltop that morning and it was very quiet. The sun pierced the top of the pine trees in the East and splashing warm and peaceful light across the rocky mount. For myself, my first encounter with Apparition Hill was an encounter with Our Lady through my personal prayers and praying the rosary. It was really the only time I felt peace in Medjugorje.

On the morning of the annual apparition, thousands of people flooded the little town of Medjugorje. Even before sunrise, we woke to see people of all ages, on foot, walking into Medjugorje from every surrounding town and village, over the mountains and across borders. That was a very special sight to see.

My second encounter on Apparition Hill was the evening of the annual apparition and message. The mountain had, what seemed like thousands of people gathered around the statue. You could hear a variety of different languages that night. The air was hot and damp and the absolute sense of desperation was palpable! I remember trying to sit there on the rocks in peace, yet all I could feel was an overwhelming sense of anger as people scrambled all around us, just to be close enough to the experience. Instead of taking in the beauty of nature and the opportunity to even be there in the first place, people's sense of need, hopelessness and despondency made me very sad. Regardless, Tonio had a very different experience. At one point, he was on his knees saying the rosary and later, he described his experience as if no one else was on the mountain and he was floating with true bliss! It dawned on me then, that it was perhaps my empathic nature that picked up on other's despair and my own lack of being grounded that made me so uneasy. The June 25th, 2012 message from Our Lady was:

"Dear children! With great hope in the heart, also today I call you to prayer. If you pray, little children, you are with me and you are seeking the will of my Son and are living it. Be open and live prayer and at every moment, may it be for you the savor and joy of your soul. I am with you and I intercede for all of you before my Son Jesus. Thank you for having responded to my call."

This was the third miracle!

On our way down the mountain that night, Tonio slipped and fell forward on to the dangerous rocks. He happened to have a piece of rubber in his hand that we had bought earlier, as a kneeling pad. When he stood up, the pad had a huge hole in it. I could only imagine the damage he may have suffered, had he not had that pad in his hand. He was in pain from the fall and a little shaken up. I was so terrified that he got hurt and his biggest concern was that it would ruin the rest of our trip. I did some gentle acupressure on his hands and knees. The next morning, he had absolutely no pain and no bruising! This was the fourth miracle!

The following day, we had one more journey to take and that was to Cross Mountain. This mountain above Medjugorje stands 1,710 feet high. It is here on March 15, 1934, the parishioners constructed a concrete cross 28 feet tall, built in remembrance of the 1,900 years since the death of Christ. On the cross is written: "To Jesus Christ, Redeemer of the human race, as a sign of their faith, love and hope, in remembrance of the 1900 years since the death of Jesus". Relics received from Rome for the occasion are embedded in the cross bar itself. Since then, the custom was established of celebrating Holy Mass at the foot of the cross in commemoration of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, on the 1st Sunday after the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. According to the visionaries, in the message of August 30, 1984, Our Lady said "The cross was also in God's plan when you built it." With Our Lady's message, the faithful started to pray the Way of the Cross on Cross Mountain. This journey was even more perilous than Apparition Hill. Extremely treacherous, the path was not only difficult because of the rocks but navigating around the sheer numbers of pilgrims was also dangerous. The view at the top was unparalleled and the climb was very rewarding.

Miracle in the Clouds. On our way out of town, we took the local bus to the airport. I remember as we were leaving Medjugorje, many people sitting in front of us, were pointing to the sky and taking pictures. As we looked out the window, we saw a single wisp of a cloud in the bright blue sky. It was clearly a cloud formation of the Virgin Mary. She was standing behind the cross of Christ as an offering of her son to the world! People on the bus were in shock, not speaking but only pointing in amazement! Again, as we were crossing the Croatian border, in a cloudless sky, there was one single cloud formation with the image of Mary surrounded by four angels! Even people outside of the bus were standing and pointing upward to this incredibly spectacular site! This was the fourth miracle.

The Messages

According to the united testimony of the visionaries, Our Lady on the occasion of her apparition gave a series of messages, to be transmitted to the people. Father Jozo Zovko's was the parish priest at the time of the first apparitions and also the one who saved the children from the authorities when no one believed that they were seeing Gospa (the Blessed Virgin). It was Father Zovko who always compared the basic messages of Gospa to powerful weapons against the enemy: "As little David won over the big Goliath with his sling shot and five stones," he explained, "in the same way we may defeat Evil by living the five main messages of Our Lady." He referred to the messages as "stones." These five stones are: .

PEACE - Already on the third day, Our Lady stressed peace as the first of her messages: "Peace peace peace and only peace!", after which she said twice, "Peace must reign between God and man and between people". Considering that Maria could see a cross, when Our Lady gave this message, the obvious conclusion is that this peace comes from God. God, who through Our Lady in Christ became our peace. (Ephesians 2:14) "For He is the peace between us"...This peace, "the world cannot give" (John 14:27) and that's why Christ commanded His apostles to bring it to the world (Matthew 10:11) so that all men could become "sons of peace" (Luke 10:6). That's why Our Lady as "Queen of Apostles" in Medjugorje specifically refers to herself as "Queen of Peace". (I am your mother, the Queen of Peace - Medjugorje Message, July 25, 1988).

FAITH - The second of Our Lady's messages is faith. Already on the fourth, fifth and sixth day of apparitions, Our Lady exhorted those present to have strong faith. Understandably, she repeated this message many times. Without faith we cannot arrive at peace! Not only this but faith is itself an answer to God's Word, which he not only proclaims but actually gives to us. Once again there is no-one who can better understand the necessity and efficaciousness of faith than Our Lady. That's why she stressed it on every occasion and charged the visionaries to bring the light of faith to others.

CONVERSION - Conversion was another one of Our Lady's frequent messages. This presupposes that she noticed either a weakness or a complete lack of faith in humanity today. And without conversion it is impossible to achieve peace. True conversion means, the purifying or cleansing of the heart, (Jeremiah 4:14), because a corrupt or "deteriorated" heart is the basis of bad relations, which in turn brings social disorder, unjust laws, base constitutions. Without a radical change of heart, without the conversion of the heart, there is no peace. For this reason, Our Lady continually suggests frequent confession. The request is directed to all without differentiation because, "not one of us is just"...."all have wandered, not one does right" (Romans 3:11-12).

PRAYER - Almost daily, from the fifth day of apparitions onwards Our Lady recommends prayer. She requests everyone to "pray without ceasing" just as Christ himself taught. (Mark 9:29, Matthew 9:38; Luke 11:5-13) Prayer, therefore stimulates and strengthens our faith, without which our relationship with God is disordered;-as is our relationship with each other. Prayer also reminds us of how close God is to us even in our daily lives. In the beginning, following an old Croatian tradition, Our Lady asked for the daily praying of: The Creed, followed by Seven Our Fathers, Hail Mary's, and Glory Be's. Later, Our Lady recommended praying the Rosary. First Our Lady asked us to pray 5 decades, then 10, and finally Our Lady wishes us to pray daily, together or individually, the entire 15 Mysteries of the Rosary (Joyful, Sorrowful, and Glorious Mysteries).

FASTING - Already on the sixth day of the apparitions, Our Lady often recommended fasting because it assist faith. That is, the practice of fasting helps and ensures control over oneself. Only the person who can dominate himself is truly free, and is capable of abandoning himself to God and to his neighbor, as faith demands. Fasting guarantees him that his abandonment to faith is secure and sincere. It helps him to free himself from every slavery, but especially to the slavery to sin. It is on bread and water that we should fast.

To sum up, we can say that Our Lady's messages underline that peace is the greatest good, and that faith, conversion, prayer and fasting are the means by which we can attain it. It is also no coincidence, that stones play a central role in Mejugorje. They are the main attraction on the mountain and because of this, the stones and soil of Apparition Hill are hand picked and made into beautiful rosaries, peace chaplets and decade bracelets. Real pieces of stone are also available along the streets leading to the parish church. These healing tools are all relevant in order to help one bring themselves closer to the wished of the Blessed Virgin.

The visionaries still receive messages. Ivanka receives one once a year, Mirjana receives one on the 2nd one each month, Vicka receives one every day, Marija receives one on the 25th of each month, Ivan receives an apparition daily, and Jakov has an apparition every day as well.

The Secrets

In addition to the messages,the visionaries have each received a total of ten "secrets" from Gospa. Only one secret has been revealed by the visionaries. Our Lady promised there would be a great sign on the mountain in Medjugorje, where She first appeared. There are also three warnings Our Lady said She will give. The warnings will be warnings on earth. The Blessed Virgin Mary warned that there is not much time for conversion. After the three warnings, the permanent visible sign will be left on the mountain in Medjugorje. The ninth and tenth secrets talk of a chastisement for the sins of the world. The chastisement can be lessened by praying and doing penance, but it cannot entirely go away.

The Miracles

From the beginning, the Medjugorje apparitions were accompanied by many unusual phenomena, both in the sky and on the ground, especially by miraculous healings. We witnessed many from the beginning of our journey right up through our last days there. From the weeping statue of Christ to the amazing sun and cloud phenomena that occur (we saw two) to the Cross on Cross Mountain that shines at night as though it was covered with lights yet, there is no electricity on the mountain! Amazing images captured in photographs and incredible videos of (un) natural happenings are just too many to ignore! Yet, overall I think the biggest miracle is the millions of people that come from the farthest reaches of the world to see a place that is still being graced by the powers of heaven for 30 years! Even though, Medjugorje has not yet been sanctioned officially by the church as an authentic Marian apparition site, the innumerable amount of prayers, pilgrims and penance is incomprehensible!

For those unable to make the journey to Medjugorje, I have brought back with me gifts for healing, holy water blessed on Apparition Hill, peace candles, sacred anointing oils and there is also a musical playlist of sacred music I have compiled.

References:
1. http://www.medjugorje.org
2. http://www.medjugorje.ws
3. http://www.childrenofmedjugorje.com/content/medjugorje-mainmenu-86/5- stones/13-about-medjugorje/28-5-stones
4. Sego, Kresimir - A Conversation with the Visionaries, Medjugorje 2012
5. Dodig, Radoslav - Mudjugorje, Pilgram's Monograph, Holli Ltd 2011

Soul Satisfying Journeys: Full Moon Over Ojai

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

(February 9, 2012) This was a suprising journey initiated by my dear friend and mentor Zachary Selig, one of the foremost theosophers and metaphysical painters of the Ckakra Codex. Zachary and I took the day and headed for the mystical town of Ojai.

Ojai, California is a vibrant place with so much natural beauty that it gained fame decades ago when the area was photographed to represent Shangri-La in the 1939 movie, The Lost Horizon. Nestled in the Ojai Valley, the town is surrounded by peaks that give off a glow in the evening light known as "the pink moment".

Since Ojai is lined up with an east-west mountain range, it is one of few towns in the world to have a "Pink Moment". This magic moment occurs as the sun is setting, when the fading sunlight creates awash of brilliant shades of pink, lavender, peach and purples for several minutes over the Topatopa Bluffs at the east end of the Ojai Valley. Once you tour the mountains to the Secret Garden and see the Chumash Indian's sacred places, you could understand why Ojai offers special meaning to all who come time and again.

The exceptional climate of the Ojai Valley has drawn many who wish to rejuvenate their health and wellness, enjoy the dry, comforting air and take in the seemingly never-ending sunshine. It was early on in the discovery of this energetic place that settlers established the reputation of Ojai as a center of physical and mental health. Well known for its new age gurus, metaphysical institute and the coexistence of protestants, Catholics and yoga practitioners, a rich and diverse blend of spiritualism has evolved with room for all.

Driving through this quiet little village, I was introduced to the tall lemon-eucalyptus trees, the weeping pepper trees and fragrant sage and lavender bushes. Ojai is literally dripping with orange groves! The sweet scent of citrus filled the air as we drove through the verdant valley of rolling hills.

Our first stop was the energetic vortex of the Krotona School of Theosophy. We followed the winding road past the stone gates to the very top of the hill. Krotona was one of three important Theosophical "colonies" in the U.S. during the early part of the 20th century. Originally built in Hollywood during 1912, the colony was eventually relocated to Ojai, California in 1926, where it operates today as the Krotona Institute of Theosophy.

I had always heard about the famous Krotona Library, filled with the teachings and writings of Blavatsky, Leadbeater and Olcott, to name a few. Dedicated to the search for truth, the library was founded in 1926 and is a part of the Krotona Institute of Theosophy. The library emphasizes the ageless wisdom and traditions of Theosophy and spiritual teachings of East and West. There are over 10,000 books with new titles added each year.

In the front of the library stands a plaque which represents the energetic vortex. The plaque is in a geographic opposition of its yang counterpart, The Meditation Mount. The plaque reads:

The Three Truths

*The soul is immortal, and its future is the future of a thing whose growth and splendor has no limit.

*The Principle which gives life dwells in us, and without us, is undying and beneficent, is not heard or seen, or smelt, but it is perceived by the one who desires perception.

*Each of us is our own absolute lawgiver, the dispenser of glory or gloom to ourselves, the decreer of our life our reward, our punishment.

These truths which are as great as is life itself are as simple as the simplest mind of man. Feed the hungry with them.

~The Idyll of the White Lotus

Inside the library, Zachary introduced me to one of the library's curators, Lakshmi. Lakshmi, named after the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity (both material and spiritual), was an elderly Indian woman, small in stature but rich with knowledge. Her peaceful, quiet demeanor captured attention and respect as she quickly educated me on the history of the school and library. Taking my hand, she lead me into a large, sunlit music room to tell me the story of the paintings by Sarah Eddy hanging on the walls. As I thanked her for the brief history, she leaned into me and said, "Tonight, the moon is full like the almond blossoms in Ahmed's love garden." I thanked her for the insight and promised I would make an effort to see it!

Since its founding in 1967, the Krotona School of Theosophy has been helping students deepen their understanding of theosophy, the ancient wisdom, in its many forms, and has encouraged them to live a spiritually oriented life. The school emphasizes "transformative education" which focuses on spiritual renewal. Such studies lead students to orient themselves to eternal truths in a changing world. The school, an integral part of the Krotona Institute, supports the work of The Theosophical Society and its three objects, which are concerned with: 1) The unity of all people; 2) The study of comparative religion, philosophy and science; and 3) The investigation of unexplained laws of nature and our latent powers.

Our next visit was to have tea with Ingrid Boulting. Ingrid, an open, enterprising and endearing spirit, who was an infamous world-class model in the 60's and 70's is now the proud owner of a beautiful yoga studio in Ojai called Sacred Space Studio. We had a wonderful afternoon, as her and Zachary, childhood friends for over 40 years, reminisced and caught up. One of Ingrid's passions is her love and care she gives to stray dogs. We were greeted by the joy and barking of several of her canine houseguests as we enjoyed tender jasmine tea in her garden.

Our next stop was Meditation Mount. This sacred site sits on 32 acres of land at the east end of the Ojai Valley, is a remarkable place of peace and beauty. It is comprised of five separate buildings in and among extensive gardens. The premier structure is the auditorium featuring a mostly glass facade overlooking the Valley. The International Garden of Peace is a spectacularly groomed meditational path or journey filled with fragrant herbs and flowers, beautiful Asian sitting structures, stone seats and a blissful water pond. The path leads you to an open field that overlooks the most breathtaking view of the entire Ojai Valley! What better place to experience the power of the full moon!

Some call Ojai a vortex of positive, feminine energy that complements Sedona, AZ, known as the masculine vortex. Men seem mellow and happy visiting Ojai, where there are more female businesses launched per capita than any place in California. People love to escape, re-energize and have a Pink Moment in Ojai.

Ojai, the Chumash Indian word for "moon", is honored each evening when the Pink Moment fades and the moon comes into view, often lighting up the valley with its own unique glow. My Full Moon Meditation was done with Zachary and myself, along with several new friends we met on the Mount. As always, I came prepared with two pounds of quartz points, which we used to create a meditation circle. I also place at the pinnacle of each quartz point, a very special mother of pearl, to represent the moon's energy. I handed out tumbled moonstone to each participant. The Full Snow Moon, was huge! The light of the moon shined over the valley floor embracing all it came in contact with.

As always, I am truly grateful for these experiences that come into my life and will continue to learn and keep my heart open to receive them!

Soul Satisfying Journeys: In The Footsteps Of Mozart

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

This entire journey unfolded from two little pictures that were given to us over 15 years ago. The apartment we moved into was occupied by a woman for over 50 years. Upon her death, she had no family or friends left to leave her worldly possessions to. Before moving in, the superintendent asked us if we would be interested in some of her collectibles. So we inherited a beautiful marble table, an amazing bronze angel teetering on a marble pedestal and two little pictures, one of Beethoven and one of Mozart. We had also rediscovered the movie version of Amadeus and fell in love all over again with the music and locations in the movie (which were suppose to be Vienna, but was actually shot in Prague). Of course, Mozart had been in my life since I was 12, learning to play the piano and throughout my years as a classical dancer, but that little picture, made me start to look deeper at the man and his legendary status.

It then became a dream of mine to visit some of the places Mozart lived, worked and made his mark. This past year I made the dream a reality and booked a flight to Vienna. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is considered classical musics' wunderkind of all time! The celebrated composer was born in Salzburg on January 27, 1756 and this is where our journey began.

From Vienna, we boarded a train early in the morning to Salzburg. It was a beautiful day and the train took us through some spectacular countryside. Small towns with picture perfect houses and sacred little churches would appear over every knoll. The homes were adorn with colorful flowers spilling over their balconies. Lush green fields and sturdy pines stretched up toward the clear blue sky as the train delivered us into the city of Salzburg.

Salzburg sits on the banks of the Salzach River, at the northern boundary of the Alps. The mountains to Salzburg's south contrast with the rolling plains to the north. Salzburg's "Old Town", Altstadt, has internationally renowned baroque architecture and is one of the best-preserved city centers north of the Alps. Salzburg has a long musical tradition itself and it is where the sound of Mozart echoes round every corner. This pretty city is filled with music lovers from around the world who come to enjoy the Mozart Festival during Mozart Week, which is organized by the International Mozarteum Foundation each January around Mozart's birthday. The festival offers opera productions, as well as, orchestral, chamber music and soloist concerts. People flock here anytime of the year to see where the genius was born and blossomed.

Our first stop in following Mozart's footsteps, took us to the Mozart family home on the third floor of the "Hagenauer House" at Getreidegasse 9. The celebrated composer was born here. The International Mozarteum Foundation first installed a museum in Mozart's Birthplace on June 15, 1880. We were lead through the original Mozart rooms containing historic instruments, documents, memorabilia and most of the portraits painted during his lifetime, including the unfinished oil painting "Mozart at the Piano" painted by Mozart's brother-in-law, Joseph Lange, in 1789. We also were able to view Mozart's childhood violin, his concert violin, his clavichord and the harpsichord.

After a tour of Europe, Mozart, the child prodigy and his family, returned to Salzburg and moved into the Tanzmeisterhaus where he lived from 1773 to 1780. Before Mozart relocated to Vienna, he wrote many cherished symphonies, concertos and operas here. The re-built Tanzmeisterhaus is now a very nice museum with a self guided tour that gives the visitor interesting history along with displays of the composer's original drafts and sheet music written in Salzburg, Mozart's original pianoforte and interesting antedotes about the Morzart and his family.

Next stop, Prague. Mozart was often said to have had a very special relationship with the city of Prague and its people. Prague is a magical city! Situated in the northwest corner of the country on the Vltava riveris, "Praha" is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic. For many centuries, Prague was the seat of two Holy Roman Emperors and was also the capital of the Holy Roman Empire. It played an important role as home to the Habsburg Monarchy, as well as the Austrian/Hungarian Empires. This stunning Gothic and Renaissance city is a journey back in time! It is embellished by a number of famous cultural attractions, many of which survived the violent destruction of twentieth century Europe. Some of the most breathtaking landmarks include Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, the Old Town Square, the Jewish Quarter, the Lennon Wall, the Church of the Infant of Prague and Petrin Hill. It is also the place of one of my most favorite sunrises!

During Mozart's time, Prague was a very musical city. Whenever he would play there, the people of Prague would give Mozart and his music such an enthusiastic reception, he was once heard saying, "My Praguers understand me". Mozart's opera, The Marriage of Figaro, which premiered in Vienna, was produced in late 1786 in Prague with tremendous success. The world premiere of Mozart's Don Giovanni, took place in Prague on October 29, 1787 at the Theatre of the Estates. Mozart also wrote, La Clemenza Di Tito for the festival accompanying Leopold II's Prague coronation as King of Bohemia in November 1790. So, while in Prague, we followed Mozart's tracks. We visited the Mozart Museum, which was the reconstructed Villa Bertramka, where the composer stayed with his friends. We were also lucky enough to get tickets to hear the Prague Symphony Orchestra play Mozart's Symphonies No. 40 & No. 41 in the exquisite Prague State Opera house. What a wondeful experience!

The train pulled into Vienna in the evening. We found our hotel and ventured over to the Schonbrunn Palace, where the resident orchestra gave a concert of Mozart's music. Schonbrunn Palace is a former imperial 1,400-room Rococo summer residence in Vienna. It is one of the most important cultural palaces in the country and is one of the major tourist attractions in Vienna. The palace and stunning gardens illustrate the tastes, aspirations, and intrigue of the Viennese high society. It still retains its air of sophistication and baroque elegance. Mozart's music resonated through the great hall. The musicians were dressed in historical costumes, complete with wigs and played with great fervor. I found it awe inspiring to realize that three hundred years earlier, the great showman conducted his original compositions in these very same halls. What an end to an amazing day!

A beautiful sunrise, escorted us to Stephansplatz, a square at the center of Vienna. It is named after its most prominent building, the Stephansdom, Vienna's cathedral and one of the tallest churches in the world. St. Stephen's Cathedral is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Vienna and the seat of the Archbishop of Vienna. A memorial tablet gives a detailed account of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's relationship with the cathedral, including the fact that he had been appointed an adjunct music director here shortly before his death. This was his parish church when he lived at the "Figaro House" and he was married here. It was 1782 when he married Constanze Weber. It is also here that two of his children were baptized and his modest funeral was held in the Chapel of the Cross.

From 1781 - 1791 was considered Mozart's "Vienna Period". It was during this time that the composer created the masterworks that ensured his immortality! These would include his Sonata in D Major for Two Pianos, the Singspiel, The Abduction from Seraglio, the Haydn Quartets, the Dissonance Quartet,; the Hoffmeister Quartet; the Sonata No. 4 in F major for Piano 4 Hands, the Symphony in E flat, Symphony No.41 in C major, Jupiter, his great operas including The Marriage of Figaro, Don Giovanni, Cosi Fan Tutte, The Magic Flute, La Clemenza di Tito and the Requiem.

I think the most beautiful part of the journey for me was a visit to the Central Cemetery (Zentralfriedhof). Located in the outer city district of Simmering, on the fringe of Vienna, this vast and sacred ground is like a park with breathtaking monuments and ceremonial tributes to death, like no other place I have ever seen. Lovers of classical music find this an amazing sightseeing stop. The Musicians' Corner of the cemetery is graced with beautiful fresh flowers, as well as gifts from strangers to the biggest names of classical music including Beethoven, Brahms, Strauss, Schubert and Bach. In the very center of this corner is a tall obelisk in honor of Mozart. The day was warm and the breeze gentle, as we looked upon a tribute to the greatest minds of classical music! Mozart died on December 5th 1791. City records show that he was placed in a wooden coffin and buried in a plot with 4 to 5 other people. A wooden marker was his grave marker. It is believed that Mozart is buried somewhere in Vienna's , but the exact location is not known. Great confusion centers around the current "grave" due to the unfortunate circumstances of the composer's resting place and the lack of any definite markers.

Yet, during his very short life, Mozart produced more than 600 published works including 15 masses, 49 symphonies, 20 operas, 17 organ sonatas, 26 quartets, 17 piano concertos, and dozens of other compositions for various combinations of instruments. I have created a playlist of some of my most favorite classics for your listening pleasure.

Soul Satisfying Journeys: Pilgramage to Fatima

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

October, 15, 2011 - I'm lying on a stone fence, my body stretched out in peaceful repose, the Portugese sun beating down on my face. I just said the rosary in front of a statue of the Angel of Peace and statues of Lucia, Jacinta and Fancisco, the three children of Fatima. Many may know of the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima who appeared to these children in 1917, but many may not know that the year prior to this, the children were visited by the Angel of Peace in order to prepare them for the coming and greater understanding of the messages from the Virgin Mary.

Now, here I rest, in the garden of Lucia, near the well where this event occurred. I can see sheep grazing gently in the hills. Up the road from me are the very simple family homes of the children, seemingly untouched since 1917. Yet, not too far away from here stands the most impressive Santuary devoted to these three simple children and the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Rising over the knoll you can see a vast esplanade sloping down and out across the Cova da Iris. Making up the sign of the cross is the enormous Basilica in the North, the modern Holy Trinity church in the South, the Chapel of the Apparitions in the East and the conventual and hospital buildings in the West.

I was fascinated by the nature and foliage of Fatima. The climate makes it just the right conditions for a host of unique trees I have never seen in person before. Towering along side the esplanade are beautiful juniper trees. Their needles have a deep green color with a slight bluish-tinge. The trees were rich with ripened berries releasing an aromatic resin scent. Behind the basilica were rows of eucalyptus trees. These scented long shiny leaves filled the orchard with their pungent aroma. Also, dotted throughout the area where Olive trees. This tree along with its fruit, and its oil, all have special meanings in the Bible. The olive tree is one of the symbols for Israel and/or her people. Olive oil is symbolic of the Holy Spirit. The fruit is considered good deeds. Olive oil is used for anointing, as well as for burning in Jewish and Christian ceremonies. The wood is often use for making crosses and rosaries.

The apparitions of Fatima began on May 13, 1917 and continued each month on the 13th day through October (except in August, when the Virgin appeared to the children on the 19th, due to the fact that they were taken by the police for inquiry.) The first vision came to the children in the Cova da Iria, while the children were watching over their sheep. Appearing in the branches of a holm oak tree. Lucia spoke, "What do you want of me?" The Lady answered, "I want you to come here for sixth months in succession. Then I will tell you who I am and what I want". The Lady also directed the children to pray every day for peace and for the end of the war that was then destroying Europe, and then she disappeared in a blinding light.

The day of the second apparition, June 13, The Lady, visible only to the three children, again told them to pray and also predicted the deaths of Jacinta and Francisco. The children again went to the Cova da Iris on July 13, accompanied by several hundred peasants from the local area. Lucia asked that a divine sign be shown. In response, The Lady promised that in October she would reveal her identity and she also told the children three secrets.

The August apparition did not appear on the 13th as the children were unable to go to Cova da Iris because the authorities had detained them. The children were interrogated separately, but the children neither recanted nor changed their story. When they were released, the Lady appeared and repeated her promise of performing a miracle in October. She also asked for a chapel to be built at Cova da Iris.

The Miracle of the Sun

The October 13th apparition drew nearly 70,000 people from all parts of Europe. The day was dark and rainy. The apparition announced to the children that she was in fact Mary, the mother of Christ. She asked that prayers be said for the end of World War I and that a church be built in her honor. She then vanished in a blazing light as Lucia cried out, "look at the sun" which, many of the observers testified they saw wondrous things in the heavens. The rain clouds parted, the "sky opened up" and the sun seemed to spin in the sky, changing colors, or go completely dark for several minutes, before appearing to plunge towards the earth. Mysteriously, after the spinning of the great body of light, the crowd found its clothing completely dry and the rains stopped.

The Three Secrets

On July 13th, the Virgin is said to have revealed the Three Secrets of Fatima to the children, consisting of prophecies about the future. The first secret described a horrifying vision of Hell.

The second secret foretold the end of World War I and the beginning of World War II and called for the "Consecration of Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary". Many believe Pope John Paul II fulfilled this request in 1984 by giving a blessing over the world, including Russia, shortly before the collapse of the Soviet Union. According to Sister Lucia, she believed this was not enough to fulfilled the request of Mary.

The Vatican kept the third secret under wraps until Easter 2000 - despite Lucia's declaration that it could be released to the public after 1960. The officially released text of the third secret was unspecific in nature, leaving it open to various interpretations. The secret speaks of a pope being killed by soldiers at the foot of a cross on top of a mountain, along with many other bishops and priests. The Church's interpretation is that this predicts the May 13, 1981 assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II by Turkish gunman Mehmet Ali Agca in Saint Peter's Square. John Paul himself credited Our Lady of Fatima with saving his life, saying he saw her intervening to deflect the gunman's arm and he maintained consciousness on the ride to the hospital by keeping his mind focused on her. There are other theories that this last secret is actually about the apocalypse.

I have wanted to go to Fatima for such a long time and my trips to Lourdes only encouraged my desires. I found Fatima to be an awe inspiring place. It transports you back in time. It leaves you with a sense of caring, wonder and religious fervor. We found ourselves praying the rosary twice a day, going to mass twice a day and looking forward to the candlelight procession at 8:30 each evening. The procession is a miraculous event that takes place each night, offering mass, the rosary and then the honoring of the Virgin with candles and song. Fatima is a place that offers you self discovery. It is a soul satisfying journey I would suggest to anyone wanting to learn more about themselves.

I have included a musical tribute to go along with this article. You can find it here. You can also find incense with prayer cards from Fatima.

Soul Satisfying Journeys: Breakfast with Alice

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

It is a warm, bright (early) summer morning in July. Tonio and I have several errands to get done! We are in New York and on our way up to the upper east side. Tonio had the desire to suprise his co-workers and decorate the business with colorful red, white and blue balloons, flags and toys for Bastille day.

Bastille Day is the French National Day, which is celebrated on the 14th of July each year. In France, it is formally called La Fete Nationale (The National Celebration) and commonly le quatorze juillet (the fourteenth of July). Official ceremonies along with the festivities are held all over France. This day commemorates the 1790 Fete de la Federation, held on the first anniversary of the storming of the Bastille on July 14th 1789; the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille fortress-prison was seen as a symbol of the uprising of the modern nation, and of the reconciliation of all the French inside the constitutional monarchy which preceded the First Republic, during the French Revolution.

By 7 am, the decorations were up and the place sparkled! So off to Central Park with a bag full of goodies we brought back from Paris and two coffees. Central Park is an unbelievably beautiful habitat and a National Historic Landmark in the middle of Manhattan! Opened in 1857, on 843 acres, it was remarkably designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who won a design competition to improve and expand the park with a plan they entitled the Greensward Plan. Construction began the same year and was completed in 1873. The park is home to rolling hills, lakes and reservoirs, over 25,000 trees and a variety of birds and little furry mammals.

On the upper east corner of East 74th Street, located just north of the Conservatory Water, is an eleven foot tall statue of Alice in Wonderland in bronze, surrounded by the Mad Hatter, the White Rabbit and Cheshire Cat along with the Dormouse and Alice's cat, Dinah. Publisher and philanthropist George Delacorte commissioned the sculpture as a tribute to his late wife Margarita, and as a gift to the children of New York City. Alice was created by Spanish born, French-trained sculptor Jose de Creeft in 1959, depicting the famous characters from Lewis Carroll infamous children's story.

Unlike most sculptures, children (and adults) are invited to climb, touch and crawl all over Alice and her friends. In fact, through the decades thousands of hands and feet have literally polished parts of the statue's surface smooth.

One of my favorite books as a child, Alice in Wonderland has been depicted with great reverence in Disney's annimated feature, as a fantastic retelling by director Tim Burton and even most recently as a Broadway show.

The statue is half mooned by benches facing inward. This is were we sat and enjoyed our breakfast with Alice. We enjoyed hot coffee and sweet, delectable biscuits as we watched the sun gently start to rise up over the tree tops. The park was alive with joggers and dog walkers, nannies and couples visiting. The smell of fresh cut grass would waft by our nostrils with a wiff of sweet jasmine planted behind the benches.

Enjoying breakfast in nature in the middle of the greatest city in the world! It just gets "curiouser and curiouser"! The sculptor included an inscription in a granite circle surrounding his work. It is a line from "The Jabberwocky, also by Lewis Carroll: "Twas brillig, and the slithy toves did gyre and gimble in the wabe."

If you have never been to New York City, or Central Park, I encourage you to see this wonder. Be sure to stop by and pay Alice a visit!

Soul Satisfying Journeys: Lunch with Allan Kardec

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

I love Paris. Perhaps it is because of it's air of romanticism, amazing architecture or incredible history, it is a city that keeps me in awe, every time I revisit. This trip was extra special as we had a purpose and that was to have lunch with Allan Kardec. He is known today as the man who arranged Spiritism according to a system. He systematized his scientific knowledge of these beliefs and therefore, he laid the foundation with the five books of the Gospel Explained by the Spiritist Doctrine. The fundamental tenets of Spiritism, according to Kardec, are found in his seminal work, Spirits' Book and are two fold. The first is the belief in the existence of spirits or the non-physical beings that live in the invisible space around us (spirit world). The second, is the possibility of communication between these spirits and living people through mediumship.

It was Tonio who first introduced me to this incredibly interesting man, through his mystical writings and list of questions Kardec compiled to present to the spirit world. He published his first book on Spiritism, Spirits' Book. It is comprised of a series of 1,018 answered questions exploring matters concerning the nature of spirits, the spirit world, and the relations between the spirit world and the material world. He compiled a list of questions and began working with mediums and channelers to ask the spirits themselves. These answers are found in his book. This was followed by a series of other books, including The Mediums' Book, The Gospel According to Spiritism, a periodical, the Revue Spirite, and The Book on Mediums: Guide for Mediums and Invocators, which Kardec published himself.

Born, Hippolyte Leon Denizard Rivail, he took the name "Allan Kardec" after having a past life reading, where a spirit identified as Zefiro, told him about a previous incarnation of himself as a Druid priest by that name. Rivail liked the name so much he decided to use it as a pen name when writing his codex books in order to keep his Spiritists writings separate from his day job, which was writing basic books for high school students.

Sunday, July 10, 2011. It is a beautiful sunny day in Paris as we walk up the cobblestone street in Pere Lachaise, to see Allan Kardec. We have a petite picnic basket with a baguette, some, ham, cheese and red wine, of course. We have some delectable, sweet biscuits and we also carry with us a candle from the church of Notre Dame, a handful of flowers and wine glasses and I brought along some of my most favorite stones to boost the spiritual frequency and encourage my spirit guides.

As we come to his tomb, it is filled with hundreds of flowers. (It is reputed to be one of the most flowered at the Cimetiere. I think this is because he was known as a spirtual man.) A bust of Allan's head sits centered on a pedestal with a huge slab of stone behind it and two stone pillars in front. There are flags and notes all around the well-kept grave site. Carved in the stone roof above is the phrase, "Naitre, mourir, renaitre encore et progresser sans cesse, telle est la loi" ("To be born, die, again be reborn, and so progress unceasingly, such is the law").

Allan Kardec coined the word "spiritism". Visitors from all over the world, especially from Brazil where his doctrine has a half million followers, come to pay homage at his tombstone.

Tonio approached the grave and felt "called" to the back of the monument where he placed his back against the stone and prayed. I went to the bust and placed my hand on the shoulder. The bronze statue was shiny from so many others connecting with his likeness. After a while, we sat in a space next to the tomb. We offered up the lit candle from Notra Dame, poured a glass of wine as we each placed a personal item together with the other offerings at the base of the pedestal.

I set up a spiritual mandala of blue kyanite in a large healing circle. I laid out four selenite chunks, one for each direction. In between, I laid handfuls of tumblestones in between to encourage my spirit guides, labradorite and sardonyx for protection, malachite for increasing the earth's electromagnetic pulse, chiastolite, the "cross stone" for honoring both death and rebirth and infinite to clear the environment. I love to use these crystals to promote contact with entities which have passed in order to bring knowledge concerning healing and spirituality.

We sat and enjoyed our lunch. We met many people that day coming to see the place where the great spiritist was layed to rest. Tonio spoke Spanish and Portuguese to some of the inquirers and I was able to communicate in French to several others who came to lay flowers and flags at the foot of the stone. Although our cultures and languages were so different, our common thread was the spiritual attraction and psychological intrigue Allan had left us.

Allan Kardec was Born, October 3, 1804 in Lyons - Died March 31, 1869 in Paris. His loving wife, Amelie Gabrielle Boudet is also buried with him.

Update 10/17/11: On my second visit to the infamous spiritist, Allan Kardec, in Paris it had rained very hard the night before. The following morning I found about a pound of red and yellow picture jasper that was sitting on the damp surface of the ground in Pere Lachaise. This raw stones was laying everywhere near the resting place of Allan Kardec, which makes it's metaphysical properties even more interesting. Its prophetic properties are psychically, very strong. I know you will enjoy these magical stones!

For more information about Monsieur Kardec, please visit:

Allan Kardec Organization

The Spirit Writings

Soul Satisfying Journeys: The Fourth of July

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

I have had the pleasure over the years to see or participate in some of the most spectacular Fourth of July fireworks shows in the world. Grandiose and utterly spectacular are the New York City fireworks put on by Macy's each year. This show is unparalleled to all others and if you are a fan of fireworks, then I urge you to see it live one day! I have worked as a dancer in this event, as well as seen it from my rooftop for many years! The fireworks in Washington DC hold a very special memory as it was probably my most patriot experience. In Miami Beach, I have watched the fireworks display for many years from my balcony and it has been nice. This Fourth of July I was in Miami and decided to go down to the beach to be a participant with the crowds. There was a wonderful pre-show put on by the City of Miami Beach and my new favorite classical station here, Classical South Florida 89.7 FM

Only the 2nd Annual Fire On The Fourth: Concert and Fireworks at Ocean Drive and 8 Street, the festivities featured Big Poppa E and the E Band followed by the South Florida Jazz Orchestra, under the direction of Chuck Bergeron, featuring the amazing jazz vocal styling’s of Nicole Henry. She entertained the crowd with her cool, easy going attitude, her amazing feel for jazz music and her impressive vocal range!

At 9pm the fireworks started as the radio station 89.7 FM, provided the musical soundtrack to the display. I was probably standing less than 100 yards from the fireworks as they cascaded up and over the dunes to explode above me. I truly felt as if I were standing in a kaleidoscope! As the first song swelled up behind me (John Williams Olympic theme) I could feel the tears well up in my eyes from such auditory and visual pleasure!

I am always enamored by the way music can change a situation by adding its color, power and reverence. Music creates an additional layer of emotion and spirit to an otherwise, different experience! As the musical tempo and crescendo built with the fireworks, I could feel the enthusiasm from the crowd. I also found it incredible that as certain songs would transition into the next, people would react, as the song was familiar to them. They may not have known it was the 1812 Overture or that a song was by John Philip Sousa, yet it was a familiar and recognizable tune that everyone, collectively seemed to relate to!

SO as the warm, gentle ocean breeze blew over me, the fireworks seemed to create a multi-colored umbrella over the crowd. Just the proximity to the fireworks and the empowering music coming from over my shoulder made for one of the most personal fireworks displays of my life! It was truly magical!

I have gathered together some of the most beloved music for the Fourth of July. I hope you add them to the playlist of your life! I call this playlist, Patriotic Songs For The 4th of July!

Soul Satisfying Journeys: Summer Solstice Yoga In Times Square

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

Although this journey was not a long one, just a subway ride from 14 street to 50 street, the experience of this journey is one I will not quickly forget! It is 6:30 in the morning, on the Summer Solstice, June 21, 2011 and I am standing on line in the middle of Times Square, New York City waiting for the Summer Solstice Yoga event to start. The fact that it is my birthday today, makes it even more exciting! This well organized, very thought out event has grown since its inception in 2003, the first time Douglass Stewart, one of the event's founders and his two friends decided to start this "happening" in the middle of the most kaotic place in the world - on the day that is considered the "most still".

Sol (and) stice derive from a combination of Latin words meaning "sun" + "to stand still." As the days lengthen, the sun rises higher and higher until it seems to stand still in the sky. This major celestisial event, results in the longest day and the shortest night of the year.

Now, with an estimated 5,000 people, who have pre-registered from all over the world, this incredible event has corporate sponsors and is endorsed by the Times Square Alliance. Spanning the entire day, with three major classess being taught throughout, there is a wonderful sense of peace in the middle of this crazy, wonderful city. The entire square is blocked off and there is a great sense of comradery and community. Everyone is given a yoga mat and a goodie bag as we all find a place to stretch out our yoga mats for class. The day is sunny and bright and everyone seems to have a big smile on their face. If they are thinking like I am, the smiles are coming from the fact that it is just so wonderful to be out here in the middle of Times Square with those who love to do yoga and the almost surreal affect it is having on everyone.

Times Square hosts another, more famous event for another recognized seasonal change and that is New Year's Eve. In contrast to the maddening joy and revelation people have on New Year's Eve in this same spot, the teacher of our class asks us to find the inner stillness that is associated with this day. It seems almost easy to do, given where we are, yet I feel it is coming from all around me, this desire to find peace and centeredness. As I glance around, there are all shapes and sizes, as well as, all level of yogis practicing, yet in this moment we are all in sync and you can almost feel the collective breathe as we go through our sun salutations.

The hour seemed to fly by. Evey minute that I could look around, I would. During a twist in one of our asanas or during a warrior pose, I would glance at the center of Times Square and all its participants seeking the stillness, or Yin within the greatest day of Yang. The Chinese mark the day of the Solstice by honoring Li, the Chinese Goddess of Light.

The "Yang" of Movement

June 21st is the greatest point of Yang. At this apex, Yang will start to turn into Yin. Yang energy is more masculine, is related to light, sun, brightness, heaven, time, south, east and left. Yang signs are the odd numbered ones. Those belonging to yang energy have a tendency to be more assertive and self-expressive. The aggressive energy of Times Square, New York City is a great example of Yang Energy.

The "Yin" of Stillness

Understand that there is a relevance to the longest day of the year, as the sun peaks at its highest point. Before its transition, it appears to come to an absolute stand still. This is looking at the Yin or transition. Yin energy is more feminine, is related to dark, moon, earth, north, west and right. Yin signs are the even numbered ones. Those belonging to yin energy have a tendency to be more passive and introverted.

The Summer Solstice is the joining of Yin and Yang and therefore the meeting of heaven and earth. As my mind comes back to my mat, I am lying on the ground in corpse pose and I can feel the shaking of the earth as the subway rumbles underneath me. I can't help but smile, reminding myself of where I am! As the class is ending, I am reminded of some wonderful music that played during the class. It is all music chosen to honor the sun. I would also like to share with you, some of the tunes that made the day even brighter! In conclusion, I would like to leave you with the ability to find your flow of energy in the stillness of these amazing yoga asanas.

Stimulating The Flow Of Energy

Stimulating the flow of energy in our bodies is an easy and beneficial approach to circulate blood, energy and fluids through our system. Movement of any kind is the first step! Stimulating your flow of inner energy will boost your own inner feelings of well-being. This is great for any practitioner who deals with patients and clients. Try this:

Breath

1. Find a comfortable seated position, feet placed firmly into the ground, spine straight, hands clasped and relaxed in your lap, eyes closed.
2. Begin with slow rhythmic breathing inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the nose. Your goal is to make the exhale breath twice as long as the inhaling breath. As you concentrate on this breathing, feel your hands and feet start to warm up and your fingers tingle as your energy flow is stimulated.
3. To strengthen this exercise, visualize this energy flow as a red glow passing down your arms and legs with each exhale. As the red energy glow passes through your hands, allow it to radiate up through the center of your body. Red is a warm, generating color. Always follow the breath through your body, visualize it's path. Lead it to where you want it to go. 5 -10 minutes of this will allow your body to be adequately energized!

Mountain Pose (Tadasana) and Variation

1. Stand erect, feet together, eyes closed. Listen to your body as it breathes. Allow all the tension to relax in the muscles. Let go.
2. Step feet apart, shoulder width. Slowly raise the arms up on both sides with an inhale to shoulder level. Exhale as you feel the blood rush through the arms, palms up.
3. Inhale and raise arms up all the way to the top, bring palms together, as you exhale. Hold this posture for 5 to 10 seconds Breathing through the posture.
4. On your next exhale, lower your arms to a folded position over your head, grasping your elbows with opposite hands. Relax and breath in this posture, holding for 5-10 seconds.
5. Slowly inhale, open up and slowly lower the arms back to your sides.
6. Repeat this exercise four more times. You will create a powerful healing inner energy supply and balanced physical tone.

I have gathered together some of the most beloved music associated with the sun. I hope you add them to the playlist of your life! I call this playlist, Sun Salutation Music!

Soul Satisfying Journeys: Easter and the World Trade Center

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

This Easter, by happinstance, I ended up home, alone in New York City. It was the first time, in a long time, that I had the opportunity to spend this holy day in my hometown. This particular day was the first day, in a long time, that you could walk outside in a t-shirt, sans the scarf, hat and jacket and enjoy the sunny 75 degree weather!

I decided that it would be an ideal day to get outside and stroll through the city. Then, it dawned on me, that it would be the perfect time to go and pay homage once again at the World Trade Center.

I have three very special connections to this sacred place. It was 1983, when I worked as a waiter at Windows on the World restuarant atop of the World Trade Center. It was here that I was schooled in the art of fine wine and service. It was my first encounter with the infamous legacy of chief James Beard, the steadfast maitre d', Mrs. Lee and two of my dearest waiter colleagues, Kimberly and Michael. In those early years of my dance career, it was the restuarant that fed me, educated me and helped me pay my rent!

On September 10th, 2001, my brother Steven, his wife Katherine and myself, took our parents to Windows on the World for a drink to celebrate their wedding anniversary on that day. I recalled the swift ride up in the large elevators, recollecting back to my days as a waiter, traveling up and down in them for a year. In the bar, I remember looking out of the tall, floor to ceiling windows at the spectacular orange sunset, as we toasted my parents and their joyful union of 45 years together.

The next morning, September 11th, 2001, I was crossing Fifth Avenue early in the morning to meet my friend Antonio for breakfast. As I strided across, I noticed everyone in the street looking south. As I turned to see what everyone's eye were fixed on, I saw the first plane as it hit the North Tower. The image, burned into my mind, will always be apart of my psyche.

So now, 10 years later, I was off to see the progress and reinvention of the World Trade Center. With Ipod in tow, I walked along the waterfront down Hudson River Park. Hudson River Park is the largest park to be built in Manhattan since the completion of Central Park. The Park offers facilities for active and passive New Yorkers with tennis courts, basketball, jogging and cycling paths for the active participant and ample space to layout and get sun, benches for resting and grassy knolls to relax upon. Stretching from 42nd street to Battery Park, this landscaped, manicured and constantly evolving recreation of the Westside Highway has been an amazing transformation. I was curious to see the brand new children's playground, miniature golf and skate park that just opened a few weeks before. What I also discovered on my walk to the World Trade Center, was an incredible new installation of a boardwalk that reminded me of being in Fire Island. Exquisitely landscaped with huge rocks and a boardwalk rising and falling over gently rolling hills, this wonderful passage was adorn with fragrant pine trees and juniper bushes. Strategic plantings of seasonal grasses and low ground cover added to its appeal. Benches where placed at the edges of the boardwalk, which made for very private spaces in a wide open area flanked by the Hudson river on the west and the Westside Highway to the east.

On a special note, the Hudson River Park's 400 acres of water area have been designated as the Hudson River Park Estuarine Sanctuary. Estuaries occur where fresh water from the land meets salt water from the ocean, resulting in a dynamic nutrient-rich habitat with high biodiversity. This designation acknowledges the importance of the sanctuary as an official New York State significant Coastal Fish and Wildlife habitat.

As I approached the area of the World Trade Center, I passed an entire block of fragrant jasmine trees in full bloom. The scent from this heavenly flower is one of the sweetest and most memorable fragrances on earth. I reached up and pick a bloom to take with me to my destination.

I walked up Warren Street and turned the corner trying to get my bearings and recognize anything I could remember from before that day. Landmarks I knew, seemed to be either shadows of their former selves or gone entirely. It had been five years since I last visited the site and the borders around the area have continued to change and morph as the construction progresses. At that exact moment on my IPod, the song, Night On Bald Mountain started playing. Unaware of what I was listening to before this, the swirling strings and thunderous base immediately brought back in my mind, the confusion and horror of that day! I listened with great intent as I walked through the stone canyons. I could not help but think about those who endured the unspeakable. Tension rose up in my throat and I actually broke out in a sweat.

All of a sudden, I rounded a corner and a bell in the music started tolling. It resonated in my ear like a tranquilizer. The tone and rhythm of the music at the end of Bald Mountain, finishes with the redeeming light and sunrise, clearly recognizable in the music by the choir. In Fantasia, Disney's musical interpretation of several beloved classical music pieces, (which I was listening to), Night on Bald Mountain is paired with its "yin counterpart", Ave Maria. This is one of the most influential musical pairings in history, that deserves high recognition for its relevance. As Ave Maria swelled in my ears, I burst into tears as my eyes became fixed on the new Freedom Tower. Standing at 58 stories (about 680 feet, less than halfway to its planned 1,776-foot height), the steel and glass figure commanded attention! I was then made wonderfully aware of the resurrection taking place before me. I stopped to say a prayer and offered the Jasmine bloom in respect for those who are interred there. It will be an Easter that will remain ever important in my memory.

Please be sure and visit my musical tribute playlist and crystal reference in honor of this day!

Soul Satisfying Journeys: My Pilgrimage To Lourdes

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

Since the time I was 14 and saw the movie, The Song of Bernadette on television, I was always enamored by the incredible life of Saint Bernadette Soubirous, who, from February to July 1858 in Lourdes, France, reported 18 visions of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Now, 34 years later, my partner brought about this life long dream, booking us on a flight to Paris. On the eve of my birthday, June 21st, 2010, the summer solstice, we arrived in Lourdes. For the first time, we were going to see the grotto and springs I so often thought about! From the airport, we took a taxi for about a twenty minute ride through the French countryside. The stunning Pyrenees mountains raised there gracious heads seeming to pierce the low hanging clouds. As we rounded a bend we approach the village, the little town seemed to grow and grow. The taxi dropped us off at the hotel along the main street.

We quickly checked in at the front desk and the clerk directed us down the street to the basilica. We would wind our way down the cobblestone street passing a mired of souvenirs of the Blessed Virgin, rosary beads, bottles in every shape and size to gather water from the spring, posters, statues, dolls, toys and even bags of almonds and chocolates made to look like pebbles.

As we rounded the last bend going down the hill, the sun pierced through the clouds as our eyes became fixed on this huge basilica, framed by the Pyrenees on one side and the sloping path to the river and grotto on the other. My only reference was seeing Cinderella's castle in Disney or when Dorothy and her friends came out of the forest to see Emerald City in the Wizard of Oz. It was a magnificent site! The sun hit the top of the church just as the bells began to toll 4pm. As we got closer we could see the large castle fort on the top of a hill to our left and the Gave de Pau river racing under the bridge in front of us. The street was a buzz with many people seeming to have the same reaction as we did.

As we approach the basilica, there was a statue of Bernadette herding her sheep. In front of the basilica was a large statue of the Virgin Mary known as the Crowned Statue, surrounded by rose bushes.

The basilica, is actually called The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes or most commonly known as the Domain. The Crypt was the first of the churches to be completed in the Domain and is today among the smallest. Bernadette's father worked on its construction and was present at its official opening, The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, also known as the Upper Basilica, was the second of the churches to be completed and consecrated in 1876. This beautiful and very impressive, Gothic style, sanctuary emerges directly from the rocks of Massabielle directly above the grotto. The Rosary Basilica is the third church to be completed, in 1899. Its architecture was done to reflect Byzantine times. A dome tops the open circular nave. The exterior dome is graced by a dramatic gilded crown and cross, a gift from the people of Ireland in 1924. Facing this grand structure you can find a depiction of the Luminous Mysteries, which were added to the traditional fifteen by Pope John Paul II in 2002.

Making our way past the basilica on the right, the grounds slope down to a gentle river below. On the left we found the waters of Lourdes. Lourdes water flows from a spring discovered by Bernadette. This original spring was found in the grotto where Bernadette was asked by the Blessed Virgin to dig in the ground and drink from the water of the spring she found there. At first there was nothing but damp mud coming from the ground, but, the water came forth and the stream became increasingly clean. As word spread, this water was given to medical patients of all kinds, and numerous miracle cures were reported. The water now flows at 40 litres per minute and is collected in a cistern, and dispensed by a system of taps near the grotto. Everyone is free to drink it or collect it in bottles or other containers to take with them. The original spring can be seen within the grotto, lit from below, and protected by a glass screen. As we came upon the springs we only had a small pint size water bottle in our bag. Tonio immediately ran to a tap and filled the small water bottle.

We proceeded to the grotto, waiting in line to be one of the hundreds of people to walk by and admire the place where Bernadette saw the Blessed Virgin. As we entered the rocky cavern like grotto, we ran our hands along the cold damp stone, imagining what the experience could have possibly felt like! I can recall simply saying the Hail Mary prayer over and over again, chills running up and down my spine. Walking out of the grotto, we walked along the baths and candle stations admiring all the hundreds of candles lit in prayer and hopefulness.

That evening we participated in the Procession. The Blessed Sacrament Torchlight Procession is held daily at 8.45 pm. The procession began at the open-air altar in the Prairie, and was led by a priest carrying a monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament. Throngs of people followed the illuminated statue of the Blessed Virgin carried on the shoulders of 6 men from the grotto to the steps of the basilica. The focus of the procession was the rosary. All five decades were recited, in a variety of languages. The night was slightly damp and there was a rainy drizzle, but everyone's candles stayed lit. There was a final blessing in Latin, and then an invitation to exchange the sign of peace with everyone around us. It was an overwhelming sense of love that was felt, as every person there was drawn to this magical place for the exact same reason!

The following morning, we were up for the 6 am mass. The morning air was crisp with a slight dew in the air. On our way out of the mass, we found ourselves in the middle of a sea of nurses, priest, nuns and workers from around the grounds. They were all chatting or laughing after mass in every language you could imagine. Rosary Square seemed so empty compared to the day before, now with just the mass attendees and us. I remember an overwhelming sense of peace that flushed over me. Staring at the magnificent surroundings and the attendees and open space, it created a sense of calm I still refer back to as my "peace of Lourdes". After mass, we had breakfast in town near the Italian hospice. We were up early for mass, so now it was only about 7:30 am. We were enjoying a wonderful French breakfast of cafe au lait and croissant, as we began to see the beginnings of a parade of the sick, each one being carted down on stretchers, in wheelchairs, in four wheeled wagons, all in one straight line down the hill! We finished our cafe and out of curiosity followed the procession down the hill. As we did we found ourselves going into a mammoth underground structure. The Basilica of St. Pius X, known as the Underground Basilica, is the largest and most controversial of the Domain's churches, as well as the largest church in France. Designed by Pierre Vago and completed in 1958, this modern, concrete building, is almost entirely underground. When full, it can accommodate 25,000 worshippers. The inner church was sparsely decorated and not at all as ornate as the basilica above, yet it had its own charm! A concrete altar in the center of the structure and chairs streaming out in four directions from this point, made it the focal point of the room. Banners of the saints and those waiting to become saints hung above the crowd. The church was full of worshippers and in the center, all the sick we had followed in there for mass. We stayed for another service. After mass, we strolled back through the crowds of people milling about and the throngs of new people coming over the bridge for the first time to experience what we just did the day before. Our time at Lourdes was up. It seemed like there were so many more things to do and see, but that would have to be saved for the next visit.

Once back in the states, I was talking to several friends, colleagues and patients about my trip. After my recollection of the trip, it seemed that the first question from everyone was "did I experience any healing miracles?"

These were my miracles from Lourdes:

-Whenever I find myself stressed, since my trip, I close my eyes and take myself back to my "peace of Lourdes". The overwhelming sense of calm I received that day in Rosary Square, after mass, was a gift I took with me.

Tonio filled a tiny little water bottle up at the springs because it was the only bottle we had at the time to pour water into. We knew there were so many friends and family who asked us for the healing waters, we bought 23 little bottles for holy water. That night in our hotel, we started filling our little bottles from the pint bottle we had at the grotto. We thought there was no way we could fill all 23 bottles from the small one we had. As we poured out water, the water in the little bottle seemed to multiply to the point that it filled EXACTLY the 23 bottles we bought for others right down to the very last drop! I remember we looked at each other in absolute disbelief!

-Since 2003, the airlines only allow 3 oz of liquid on the plane per passenger. With not even thinking about this at the time, we were going through security, when they pulled me from the line and asked to check my bags. This has probably happened to me three times in years of flying. The security guard took my bag apart apparently searching for something that showed up on the x-ray machine. After two security people went through my bag, they appeared satisfied and let me repack the bag they had just gone through so vehemently, never seeing nor saying anything. After the incident, I was perplexed. What made them stop me? What made them want to go through my bag so thoroughly? Then it finally dawned on me, perhaps it was the 23 bottles of water, which they never discovered! I realized what a blessing it seemed to be and made sure the minute I got home, I would distribute this Lourdes water to those who prayed for me to bring it home!

Update: October 15, 2011: It is still dark as Tonio and I hike in the foothills of the Pyrenees. The pre-dawn air nips at my cheeks and fingers as we take brisk strides uphill along the shale and dirt path. Our journey takes us along the Vieux Crosses or Way of the Cross. We are in the town of Lourdes, fulfilling a wish we were unable to accomplish on our first trip here. The pitch black sky is still ablaze with the most brilliant of stars as we reach an area called the bend. It is called this because it is the transition from the steep climb to a sharp turn on the mountain pass. It seemed almost on cue, that the minute we reached the dangerous curve, the moonlight washed the spot in front of us with her light, as if it were a spotlight filling the curve in front us, protecting us from the perilous edge. Even though the moon this night was but a crescent, it was enough to make us both stop and stare at each other in amazement.

Below us, we could see the sleeping valley, anticipating dawn's first light. As we looked to our right, the first Station of the Cross lay before us. Up two sets of steps, we stood before the larger than life-sized cast iron statues, sculpted by Parisian artist, Raffl. The steps bring you face to face with Jesus as he is condemned to death. The light wind blowing over this verdant mountain, left an eerie, unsettled feeling in my mind, as I stand before these incredibly life-like creations. Tonio had the urge to touch the hands of Christ as his hands lay folded in front of him. I could see Tonio's face change as he did this. As we turned away from the station to walk down the steps, Tonio told me he received a message. Christ told him, "be not afraid, I am behind you. I am with you now and I always will be. You have nothing to fear." I could see the light in Tonio's eyes as he relayed the message to me. I sensed great relief within him.

We climbed higher and higher, admiring the spectacular stations as we go. There is a part in the trees. In the distance, is the recognizable blue cross at the top of the Pic du Jer mountain, standing guard over all of Lourdes, Tarbes and the Pau Plains in the West. Again the moon gets our attention. It's her feminine energy that reminds Tonio of his mom. He immediately tells me about his thoughts of her. Left to be cared for by his grandmother at age 5, it would be 25 years before they would reunite in peace and love. We then turned to see behind us, Station VIII Jesus Meets the Pious Woman of Jerusalem. The statue is of a woman with outstretched arms holding her child up to Jesus. Tonio is instantly moved. He begins to cry uncontrollably. His heart is heavy. I can feel his sorrow, but yet I also sense a feeling of relief or understanding. I hold on to him strongly. My arms wrapped to support him! It is one of the few times where I felt like a rock for him to be able to really lean on. I was honored to be able to hold him with not only my arms but my strength in love. I never felt more strong and secure.

Tonio's tears fill his eyes and streamed down his face, as he replays his childhood and adult life over in his head. This cathartic and cleansing walk we are journeying on is necessary and welcomed. I could feel it was going to be a life changing event for him, and it meant everything to me to be with him, especially now.

At the top of this mountain is Station XII, Jesus Dies On The Cross. "Father in your hands I commend My spirit". This breathtaking work of art is not only the pinnacle of Raffl's work, but it's natural setting on the mountain is unsurpassed!

We then begin our decent downward. I hold Tonio tight as we carefully step our way down the mountain path. The rocky road fans out toward the bottom and brings us to Station XIV, Jesus Is Laid In The Tomb. Portrayed by a deep crevasse in the rock, the black tomb is in the background. In the foreground are the statues of onlookers and Christ being layed to rest. Perched up on the cliff's edge, we step up to the ledge to get a closer look. As Tonio touches the rock, a piece naturally breaks off and fits into the palm of his hand. Significant for him, this teardrop shaped piece of limestone appeared to be a gift from the mountain and the Way of the Cross. We make our way down along side the mountain. We are behind the upper basilica. The sun is just starting to rise as its fingers of light pierce the valley and river before it. The first warmth of sunrise embraces the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and church of Saint Bernadette. It is one of the most beautiful sunrises I have ever experienced!

I have included a musical tribute to go along with this article. You can find it here. You can also find incense with prayer cards from Lourdes and a special Lourdes Pocket Stone.

Soul Satisfying Journeys: Living On The Beach

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

I have traveled all over the world and have visited some beautiful beaches; Phuket in Thailand, Hamoa Beach and the Big Beach in Maui, Kuta Beach in Bali and the sugary sand beaches of Cancun. Out of so many, there is only one that I always want to go back to and that is South Beach in Miami. This sacred jewel situated between the mainland and the sea, is a strip of beach that is kissed by the warm Gulf Stream, which rises to meet the sand along Miami Beach. This part of the Gulf Stream, referred to as the Florida current, maintains an average water temperature at or above 25 °C (77 °F) during the winter. The East winds move over this warm water and move warm air from over the Gulf Stream inland. This helps to keep temperatures milder across the state than anywhere else across the Southeast, especially during the winter. When the Gulf Stream meanders up along this precious beach, it reveals the most beautiful blue green water, that I see nowhere else. The most healing color combination in the light spectrum, these turquoise waters hold a magical spell over me. In the summer months, the water is also so incredibly warm, it is like slipping into a soothing blanket. I spend hours at a time in this water, splashing about, exercising, floating and just giving thanks in a ritual I perform every time I submerge my body in its embrace.

When I was a teenager, I first remember seeing Miami Beach with my parents, grandparents and brother, Steven in the late 70's. Miami Beach was used as a retirement community with most of its ocean front hotels and apartment buildings filled with elderly people living on small, fixed incomes. I will always recall the hundreds of elderly people sitting on rocking chairs on the very large porches outside their hotels and apartments. This was the place known as the retirement strip. The area of Florida where you would come to retire and eventually die.

I was reintroduced to Miami Beach in the early 90's, approximately 8 years after the area was saved as a cohesive Art Deco unit by Barbara Capitman and a group of activists who spearheaded the movement to place almost one square mile of South Beach on the National Register of Historic Places. The Miami Beach Architectural District was designated in 1979. This allowed for the protection of every Art Deco building to be preserved from its early days of the late 1920's to early 30's. South Beach is about 23 blocks south of Indian Creek to the tip of South Point. This is when I rediscovered Miami Beach and the sanctuary it would become. Rich in vegetation, a glow with the most amazing light, warm gulf water and mystical sand bars, this beach seemed to be perched on a precipice that was sacred ground. This tropical paradise would become my most inspiring muse, a place of many metaphysical discoveries and the place I would always come back to in my mind's eye!

South Beach is the place where I bought my first home. Inspired by my partner, Tonio, would be the one who most influenced the decision to buy in this new hot spot! Sitting on the south end of Flamingo Park and overlooking the ocean to the east, this home has become a place for me to come and relax. To entertain friends and family over the season, at holidays and in the summer. It is a home where I am most inspired with ideas and a place that sparks inspiration for my writings. Although still a very new and up and coming area in the mid 90's, South Beach was raw and full of amazing possibilities. You could just feel the kinetic energy surrounding this special island. It was a place not yet full formed. It was truly a diamond in the rough, when we bought here.

I remember how Lincoln Road was an abandon strip mall with shops that had closed down in the late 70's, completely unkept and undeveloped. The minute you would walk past Ocean Drive coming from the beach, you would still see many hotels and businesses boarded up and abandoned. But, you could feel transformation in the air! And transform it did.

Tonio and I would spend our winters here. We would spend our days frolicking on the beach, eating delicious Cuban food and renovating the condo. I remember meeting up with Gianni Versace many afternoons on the beach. We would discuss with him the beautiful and magical place that is South Beach. We would talk fashion and industry, beauty and design, all during our many blissful days of sunbathing.

South Beach is the place where I met one of my treasured metaphysical mentors and teacher, Zachary Selig, who has also become a lifelong friend. I recall the many days we spent talking about and debating metaphysical teachings, practicing our yoga and swimming in the warm cleansing waters. South Beach is the place we say "we ran around when we were children" and in many ways, where we grew up! I am a greater person for knowing Zachary and I am forever grateful for all he has freely given me!

The mystical ocean is where I discovered the healing powers from floating. One cloudless morning, I went to the beach early in the morning to do my yoga. After I had worked up a sweat in the reaches of the morning light, I jumped in the ocean. I lay back in the azure water and let my body float on the surface. As I lay there being held and caressed by the magical waters, I could feel the tension in my shoulders release. Then my lower back relaxed and then my hips. It was literally a chain reaction. The more I let go and gave my body up to the floating sensation, the more my body simply unwound! Since that day, not a time goes by that I don't wade into the waters and float, sometimes hours at a time!

Some of my most amazing sunrises are found here. The sun crests over the horizon of the ocean and spills light throughout my bedroom in the mornings. It is my call to the beach where I can do my sun salutations and yoga on the warm sand! The play of light as it cascades over the sea and the palm trees in the park is unparalleled.

I recall the great fun I had one summer day when two colleagues of mine from acupuncture school, came and spent a most wonderful day with me! Stacey Van Gorder, L.Ac. and Ellie Tansey L.Ac. came to South Beach to visit me and what a memorable time we had! I remember showing them how to "wave ride" the huge swells of water that day. We spent hours bobbing up and down in the beautiful water, riding the waves to shore, laughing and sharing the day. Afterwards we had a nice lunch on my terrace. Both girls were friends from school and study buddies, but that day we become so much closer and bonded in a very special way that I will never forget. It was the perfect day.

My parents come to visit on the holidays. We have spent some wonderful Thanksgivings, Christmases and New Years, sharing big meals, watching spectacular fireworks and exchanging memories. There was one particular day we went to the beach. My mom was relaxing with a good book on the pristine beach and my dad and I took a long walk along the shore. I remember walking all the way to the northern most tip of South Beach before it rounds a bend and you can no longer see the southern most tip of the beach. It was quit a long walk and I recall being concerned that my mom would begin to worry about us. But that day, my dad and I had wonderful conversation and shared many memories. It is a special moment I will always revisit every time I look at the furthest point north on South Beach.

It is now 15 years later that I am writing this. It is still an amazing place for me to come and rejuvenate. I continue to find my inspiration from the nature surrounding me. I enjoy my long walks around South Beach. I look forward to my stops for lunch and moments sipping coffee on Lincoln Road. I love experiencing the warm waters of this magical beach as they have given me more joy than I could ever express in words.

Soul Satisfying Journeys: The Tucson Gem and Mineral Show

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

For years I have been telling myself that I would like to experience this infamous show that takes place in Tucson, Arizona each year. So, finally this year, 2011 it just seemed like all the stars lined up properly for me take advantage of the opportunity. I booked a ticket to Los Angeles and headed out there to visit with my metaphysical and spiritual mentor and teacher, Zachary Selig. It had been exactly 20 years since I left L.A. to move back to New York City. Except for new storefronts along the way, L.A. seemed much cleaner and more gentrified since the early 90's. Fond memories of my old neighborhood at LaCienega above Hollywood Blvd come flooding back. My mentor and I hiked through the Hollywood Hills and spent time in some of our favorite restaurants and discovered some new ones. The weather was spectacular on my visit. Warm days would turn into cool nights and the air was crisp and beautiful this February.

We woke early on Saturday and called a cab to LAX. We hoped a plane to Phoenix and then another plane to Tucson. We rented a car and drove through the brown desert populated by many cactus and small flowering bushes. As we came into Tucson, the city was a buzz with the energy of crystal hunters all over the streets. It was about noon and the temperature had risen to a hot 80 degrees. We decided to check into our hotel and start shopping for crystals.

We chose to stay at the Arizona Inn. This amazing property founded by Isabelle Greenway, the Congress woman elected as the only US Representative in 1933. Isabelle was a force of nature who also was a beautiful women known for her grace under pressure, charm, humor and deep-seated kindness. She created this oasis in the Soneran desert that she said was built to last. It was her vision to create a home-like cottage, complete in its luxuries and convenience in service. It was her desire to give her guests "privacy, quiet and sunshine". Today, this sprawling well groomed property is complete with peaceful cottages, quaint dining nooks, a vast library and wonderful dining room. There is a spacious bar and terrace area, a heated Olympic size pool and stunning gardens with an adorable fountain. The rooms were spacious, comfortable and chic with private terraces and lounging areas, comfortable beds and impeccable service. It is the perfect getaway from a hectic life.

Once situated, we ventured out discovering storefronts and tent communities round every corner. The amount, size and varieties of minerals and crystals were just staggering. It was such an incredible experience talking with the keepers of these crystals as well. So many wonderful people who had traveled from all parts of the world to be there and offered there earthly treasures to eager rock hounds. I was a little kid again winding my way through an immense candy store. The delicious warmth of the desert played on my face as I rummaged through bins and flats of amethyst, shiva lingam, quartz clusters and ammonites of all varieties. Every shape and formation that a gem could be, seemed to be found in this energetic place! Raw, rough cut, polished, tumbled, dyed and natural stones gleaming in the light, calling out to me as I perused the thousands of unbelievable specimens. There were so many crystals that had traveled a surprisingly long distance to be ogled and chosen. Energetically, the entire atmosphere seemed bathed in a warm glow of ethereal peace. I was calm, clear headed and seemed to be so in tune with my intuition. It was a great experiment in listening to and feeling my bio-energetic vibe!

This was a sacred journey, which focused on sunsets! Before my first twilight in Arizona, I had spent the day gathering crystals to create a large mandala my mentor asked me to layout for a desert meditation at sunset. My mentor, Zachary invited several of his friends he knew from years past when he lived and studied in Tucson. We traveled West to a wonderful energy vortex about 15 minutes outside of town. I set up a healing mandala of quartz points in a large healing circle. I laid out four selenite wands, one for each direction. In between the four directions of south, east, west and north, I laid handfuls of tumblestones to represent each element. Angelite for air, carnelian for fire, black tourmaline for earth and aqua aura for water. An inner circle was then created with spheres of septarian, rose quartz and golden calcite, topped with Atlantean pyramids. The six of us then sat within the inner circle holding gem quality Chakra Integrators. These are 7 faceted rainbow colored crystals layed out on a rare piece of Tibetan Quartz point. This type of quartz is a teacher of humanity. It clears all the Chakra centers. It is used to promote contact with the ancient cultures of the East, bringing knowledge concerning healing and spirituality to its user. This was a silent, sunset meditation done within the crystal mandala circle as the Arizona sunset painted a picture across the desert floor. This sunset was a staggering burst of fire that flared up over the mountains. As the sun set, the play of light and shadow stretched across the desert floor, kissing the cactus as it began its introduction to the night. From the desert floor, the darker hues of the Chakra rainbow offered its cooling colors such as deep blue, intriguing indigo and vibrant violet washing over us as we ended the meditation.

The next sunset was probably the most beautiful exhibition of light and color I have ever seen in my life. We were leaving Tucson, flying at about 17,000 feet above ground. We were eye level with the mountains as the sun seemed to make a commanding, silent gesture that got everyone's attention sitting on the side of the plane that was facing west. The sky looked as if it was ablaze with fire seeming to come from the mountains. As the sun gave its last peek over the ridge, the real show started. Large swatches of red-orange color splashed over green blue skies as yellow then merged with a deeper blue indigo over the mountain range. As the sun was completely out of sight now, the violet flame washed over the other rainbow colors creating a color palette I have never seen in the skies before! I could hear someone on the plane say, "the Arizona sunset... the most amazing spectacle in the world!" I had to agree.

Back in Los Angeles, my final sunset of the trip came at the top of Sunset Blvd. I was in a yoga class and the large windows of the studio faced west. The sun began setting over the Hollywood Hills as we did our final namaste and meditation. I was flooded with memories of my previous life and career as a choreographer here. The setting sun brought back the good experiences Los Angeles offered me in the early 90's and as the sunlight diminished over the hills and the city lights started popping on like popcorn from the hot flames, I just remembered feeling forever grateful for all that has been offered me.

Soul Satisfying Journeys: The Middle of the World

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

I had the joy and privilege to see the center of the world at the equator in Ecuador. The journey started in Guayaquil, the coastal city. I have been coming here for over 10 years and find it an exciting and fun city. It has changed dramatically over the ten odd years that I have been coming here. I have seen the impoverished city flourish in art and design, in commerce and industry and become much more gentrified over the years. With changing government, banks falling and leaders rising, it has yo-yo'd up and down, but I would consider it's growth steady and significant.

As a part of my own self study, I come to Ecuador each year to study Amazonian herbs with Shamans, visit healers and politicians and visit amazing places such as the European-like capital of Quito, the healing mountain town of Banos and the sprawling discovery of Charles Darwin, the Galapagos Islands. One afternoon, I was approached by one of my Shaman teachers with a gift. It was more of an offering than a gift, I would say. It was a promise. Created from crystals he had gathered all over the world, my teacher created what he called Cosmic Solstice jewelry. A collection or "gathering" of sacred crystals to be used as "tools for transition" in preparing for the 2012 Solstice. Knowing that I had a means of "getting them out to the world" as he put it, he thought I would be the one to make his gift to the world, known. I accepted his "gift" on the premise that the monies made would come back to his village in order to help them with clean water and the growing of new crops in order to feed the village and their elders. He handed them over to me and said, "las herramientas estan en sus manos" (the tools are in your hands). So, off on my journey I went.

This particular visit took me to Quito. Approximately 16 miles north of Quito, marks the exact Middle of the World (Mitad del Mundo), latitude 0 ° where you can stand with a foot on each hemisphere. The Equatorial Monument is a statuesque block of iron and concrete covered with cut and polished andesite stone with a globe perched at the top. Inside this monument is a museum paying homage to the indigenous Ecuadorian cultures including descriptions of the various ethnic groups, clothing, articles and examples of their lifestyle. Within the area there are other attractions such as a Planetarium, restaurants and a miniature model of Quito. There are often various musical and cultural groups performing in the Mitad del Mundo's Central Plaza. There is a town surrounding the monument replicating a colonial Spanish town and it is called Ciudad Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World City).

My particular visit there came on the Winter Solstice, December 21, 2010. I was invited to a ceremony by the local Shaman to celebrate the Solstice on this day (just one year from the expected date of the lining up of the Earth with the center of our Milky Way galaxy). This most talked about event has already had the world preparing the planet for the end of the Mayan long count calendar, known as "End Time", which takes place on December 21, 2012. This date has been causing absolute fear and upheaval, due to its gloom and doom associated with the Mayans prediction as being the actual end of the world!

On a more metaphysical level, this time is looked at as simply awakening once again from a deep sleep and beginning to walk the path of wisdom our ancient ancestors followed. It was they who understood what it meant to live their lives in tune with nature and in a heightened state or another dimension of reality. As with any winter solstice, it is a time which signifies a rest period within the cycle of life, birth and rebirth. Looking at "End Time" can also be seen as not the end of the world, but a time of transition. Astrologically this time period is considered The Age of Pisces. At the turn of the solstice, this will become The Age of Aquarius or The "Golden Age".

Symbolically, a ceremony at this sacred and mysterious spot felt like ground zero, where the latitude is 0 ° where water flows both counter-clockwise and clockwise down a drain and balancing eggs on end seem possible due to the Coriolis effect. No matter what the truth might be, just the mere fact of being at the middle of the world on the Winter Solstice was incredibly fulfilling, humbling and sheer magic!

The ceremony started right before sunrise as myself and traveling companions were led to a location just beyond the great monument. A large circle of andesite stone, some polished, some raw, created the ceremonial boundaries, straddling the north and south hemisphere line. The burning smell of pungent sage filled the air as we were each blessed on the forehead with a sacred blend of essential oil including cedar, juniper and lavender. Meditation and prayers were said and a form of sun salutation was performed. Music played a big part of the ceremony with local drummers and musicians accompanying the Shaman with hypnotic vibes as it turned into a rhythmic celebration of song and dance as the sun rose above the Andes mountains.

We were all given the chance to have items blessed and given the opportunity to spend private time with the Shaman healers. I was given a particular set of Chakra stones, which I now use in my practice. I offered crystals in exchange for the blessing of my teacher's Cosmic Solstice jewelry. As the sun lit the ceremonial circle, the start of a new and promising season began.

Soul Satisfying Journeys: Sensational Sunrises

by Andrew Pacholyk MS, L.Ac. (excerpt from Soul Satisfying Journeys)

Those who know me, may be aware of the fact that I love the mornings! I know it has much to do with the light of first day, the promise of a new beginning and the unyielding power of nature. I love mornings so much, that I always start my writings with "good morning". It is my most favorite phrase and in any language it sounds beautiful! I am grateful for every morning, but there is certainly a short list of some of my most awe-inspiring sunrises!

August 8, 2009 - Prague is a magical city! Situated in the northwest corner of the country on the Vltava riveris, "Praha" is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic. For many centuries, Prague was the seat of two Holy Roman Emperors and was also the capital of the Holy Roman Empire. It played an important role as home to the Habsburg Monarchy, as well as the Austrian/Hungarian Empires. This stunning Gothic and Renaissance city is a journey back in time! It is embellished by a number of famous cultural attractions, many of which survived the violent destruction of twentieth century Europe. Some of the most breathtaking landmarks include Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, the Old Town Square, the Jewish Quarter, the Lennon Wall, the Church of the Infant of Prague and Petrin Hill. Prague was part of a soul satisfying journey that we took when following the footsteps of Mozart.

This particular morning, was our first in Prague. We were up before dawn. Stepping out of our little hostel, we made our way randomly down the quiet streets. Completely unfamiliar with this fascinating city, we strolled by the shops and hotels, were enamoured by the incredible trolley system that navigated the roadways and the smell of sweet bread that filled the air. I remember pictures Tonio and I took of each other, taken on a very narrow, cobblestone street holding the Prague tourist book, as to document which city we were in!

Approaching a large archway, we traversed through it and standing before us was the Astronomical Clock! Commanding our attention, we were there as the clock rang out its 6 am procession. The sky blue and orange astronomical dial, representing the position of the Sun and Moon in the sky, introduce you to various astronomical details. As the clock tower chimed, a show of figures of the Apostles, "The Walk of the Apostles", parade around the timepiece. Other moving sculptures move up and down as a figure of Death (represented by a skeleton) strikes the time. A calendar dial with medallions representing the months and the signs of the zodiac counterbalance the moving dial. This incredible work or art was first installed in 1410, making it the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the only one still working! Looking to our right, in the East, is the vast Old Town Square. Usually, bustling with a sea of tourists during the day, this summer morning we were the only two here to great the morning! There, bursting forth over the top of the gothic Tyn Cathedral was the sun greeting us in full force. Its light creeping slowly over the rooftops as its tapers of light stretch slowly across the cobblestone square. We stand there in absolute astonishment!

South Beach in Miami is a sacred jewel situated between the mainland and the sea, and is a strip of beach that is kissed by the warm Gulf Stream, which rises to meet the sand along Miami Beach. Some of my most amazing sunrises are found here. The sun crests over the horizon of the ocean and spills light throughout my bedroom in the mornings. It is my call to the beach where I can do my sun salutations and yoga on the warm sand! The play of light as it cascades over the sea and the palm trees in the park is unparalleled.

Lourdes, in the south of France, was the most recent sunrise that gave me a beautiful memory to hold on to. It is still dark as Tonio and I hike in the foothills of the Pyrenees. The pre-dawn air nips at my cheeks and fingers as we take brisk strides uphill along the shale and dirt path. Our journey takes us along the Vieux Crosses or Way of the Cross. We are in the town of Lourdes, fulfilling a wish we were unable to accomplish on our first trip here. The pitch black sky is still ablaze with the most brilliant of stars as we reach an area called the bend. It is called this because it is the transition from the steep climb to a sharp turn on the mountain pass. It seemed almost on cue, that the minute we reached the dangerous curve, the moonlight washed the spot in front of us with her light, as if it were a spotlight filling the curve in front us, protecting us from the perilous edge. Even though the moon this night was but a crescent, it was enough to make us both stop and stare at each other in amazement.

Below us, we could see the sleeping valley, anticipating dawn's first light. As we looked to our right, the first Station of the Cross lay before us. Up two sets of steps, we stood before the larger than life-sized cast iron statues, sculpted by Parisian artist, Raffl. The steps bring you face to face with Jesus as he is condemned to death. The light wind blowing over this verdant mountain, left an eerie, unsettled feeling in my mind, as I stand before these incredibly life-like creations. Tonio had the urge to touch the hands of Christ as his hands lay folded in front of him. I could see Tonio's face change as he did this. As we turned away from the station to walk down the steps, Tonio told me he received a message. Christ told him, "be not afraid, I am behind you. I am with you now and I always will be. You have nothing to fear." I could see the light in Tonio's eyes as he relayed the message to me. I sensed great relief within him.

We climbed higher and higher, admiring the spectacular stations as we go. There is a part in the trees. In the distance, is the recognizable blue cross at the top of the Pic du Jer mountain, standing guard over all of Lourdes, Tarbes and the Pau Plains in the West. Again the moon gets our attention. It's her feminine energy that reminds Tonio of his mom. He immediately tells me about his thoughts of her. Left to be cared for by his grandmother at age 5, it would be 25 years before they would reunite in peace and love. We then turned to see behind us, Station VIII Jesus Meets the Pious Woman of Jerusalem. The statue is of a woman with outstretched arms holding her child up to Jesus. Tonio is instantly moved. He begins to cry uncontrollably. His heart is heavy. I can feel his sorrow, but yet I also sense a feeling of relief or understanding. I hold on to him strongly. My arms wrapped to support him! It is one of the few times where I felt like a rock for him to be able to really lean on. I was honored to be able to hold him with not only my arms but my strength in love. I never felt more strong and secure.

Tonio's tears fill his eyes and streamed down his face, as he replays his childhood and adult life over in his head. This cathartic and cleansing walk we are journeying on is necessary and welcomed. I could feel it was going to be a life changing event for him, and it meant everything to me to be with him, especially now.

At the top of this mountain is Station XII, Jesus Dies On The Cross. "Father in your hands I commend My spirit". This breathtaking work of art is not only the pinnacle of Raffl's work, but it's natural setting on the mountain is unsurpassed!

We then begin our decent downward. I hold Tonio tight as we carefully step our way down the mountain path. The rocky road fans out toward the bottom and brings us to Station XIV, Jesus Is Laid In The Tomb. Portrayed by a deep crevasse in the rock, the black tomb is in the background. In the foreground are the statues of onlookers and Christ being layed to rest. Perched up on the cliff's edge, we step up to the ledge to get a closer look. As Tonio touches the rock, a piece naturally breaks off and fits into the palm of his hand. Significant for him, this teardrop shaped piece of limestone appeared to be a gift from the mountain and the Way of the Cross. We make our way down along side the mountain. We are behind the upper basilica. The sun is just starting to rise as its fingers of light pierce the valley and river before it. The first warmth of sunrise embraces the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and church of Saint Bernadette. It is one of the most beautiful sunrises I have ever experienced!

I have gathered together some of the most beloved music associated with the sun. I hope you add them to the playlist of your life! I call this playlist, Sun Salutation Music!

Juice Therapy