Tag Archives: Omega Institute

Cracked Wide Open

Standard

A few times in our lives, we experience events that are meant to change us in profound ways if we let them.  We can rise to the challenge & soar to new heights or let fear, doubt, & insecurity stunt our growth.  In mid-July, I had such an experience at the Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, NY, where  I attended Llyn Robert’s Shamanic Reiki workshop.  It’s no exaggeration to say that it “cracked me wide open” & I haven’t been the same since.

First, some background information about Reiki, Shamanism, & how the two intertwine.  As Llyn describes in “Shamanic Reiki: Expanded Ways of Working With Universal Life Force Energy” that she co-wrote with Robert Levy, Reiki means “becoming a channel to allow the universal energy to pass through so it can be received by another.”  Shamanism, she writes, “teaches that nature can balance & revitalize & shift consciousness; it opens us to invisible & intrinsic energies that most of us are unaware of.”  As Shamanic Reiki healers, we “accept our unique relationship to the greater energies of the universe” with the ultimate goal being the empowerment of our clients as agents of change in their own lives.  Fabulous book & phenomenal workshop led by an amazing woman who studies with shamans & energy workers around the world!

So where does that leave me after such a life-altering experience?  I’m not quite sure yet.  Like a climber on Mt. Everest, I’m pacing myself & getting used to the change in the “atmosphere” & the deeper change in me before moving forward.  I’ve been empowered & accept (with excitement & anticipation) the responsibility of making changes that are for the highest & greatest good of myself & those I love.

Retreat to Find One’s Self

Standard

Isn’t it funny how we tend to go on a retreat or vacation when we want to find our Selves?  I picture this little voice inside of me yelling, “I”m right here; I’ve always been here.  You just have to look!!”  But that’s challenging when there are errands to run, chores to do, & appointments to keep.  We’re so busy DOING that we leave no time for BEING.

Being in that predicament, I felt the need to get away from the busyness of daily life & go to a place where it would be peaceful enough for me to hear my Self & serene enough for me to reconnect with my Self, without distractions.  So, I went on a week-long retreat to the Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, NY.  Absolutely one of the best experiences of my life!!

I woke each day when I was ready, not because of a buzzing alarm clock.  I performed a ceremony to connect with the earthly & divine… plugging in to the energy that not only connects us all but comprises us all.  I also tried different forms of meditation.  While I tend to squirm after a few minutes of seated meditation, the focused attention of walking mediation resonated with me more.  By walking very, VERY slowly, I could hear the chipmunks scurrying through the bushes; feel the breeze on my skin; & notice the waterlilies & koi in the pond near the Japanese-styled Sanctuary.  I tuned in to nature.  And when my overactive mind took me away from the present moment, I focused on my breath, let go, & got back to HERE & NOW.

It boils down to this:  By relaxing my mind, I was able to hear the authentic voice inside of me.  The voice that had been there all along.