I am what I fondly refer to as a recovering Catholic. I was baptized as Catholic, and attended private Catholic school from first through tenth grade. I was asked to leave the first quarter of my sophomore year because I couldn’t understand how wearing pink socks affected my learning. I was tired of being called to repent daily for my trivial transgressions and I threw down the gauntlet. There was a very tenacious sister who made it her mission to herd me into obedience from my very first day. I struggled with all of the rules that seemed so inconsequential to me. I couldn't see how hair, socks, and bracelets made me a bad Christian. It seemed to me that we focused so much on that aspect of myself that there was no room for spiritual growth. Not to mention she seemed to enjoy the whittling away of my spirit, which gave me a bad feeling about Christianity. I left and went to public school where I could be myself, embracing punk rock hair and wild outfits and as my mom would say, “marching to the beat of my own drum.” From the time I was young, the teachings in school and church would tell me that God was a vengeful and jealous God and that we were lowly pitiful humans who had to repent for all of our sins. I remember thinking I have not sinned. I'm just a kid and God–somewhere in the recesses of my mind–felt good and loving. This was so confusing for me that I just shied away from all of it. During my junior year of high school I met a boy whose best friend's parents were pastor and wife of a non-denominational church. He brought me to church and I was fascinated and slightly alarmed that they prayed OUT LOUD! And followed no script! It was overwhelming and delightful all at once. I went to the pastor's house following service one Sunday, and I peppered them with so many questions about God and faith that I thought they would never want me back again. However, they were thrilled that I was thinking and challenging things that didn't resonate with me. That alone was so refreshing to me, because I was taught to never question the church and its doctrine. With these wonderful people is where I found love and acceptance and was able to grow as a soul. I have recently considered that there must be so many people who feel the way I did growing up. I believe this is why so many people feel nervous or uncomfortable when anyone talks about God because they think, “UH OH, here comes the judgement”, or in order for me to be accepted by God I have a long list of rules I must adhere to. I was this many years old when I learned that We are God because God lives in all of us. I would have feared God would smite me down for saying that as a young Catholic. When I attended Sacred Awakening Live, I truly felt the power of oneness. I remember as a kid feeling like I can talk to God anytime I wanted to. It felt like an invasion of my privacy to talk in confession about my conversations with God. I know now that God is in all of us and we just have to think our thoughts and dedicate some quiet moments to be in the presence of Source and Spirit. I wonder if, perhaps a certain amount of people adhere to that strict doctrine and deny themselves all of the things that allow us to Live Life in Full Expression (an acronym coined by Suzanne Guisemann for LIFE). Because this was what a particular doctrine had told them was necessary to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. It is what I was raised to think. I was raised for a good portion of my young life thinking I was going to hell or I was a bad person because I didn’t deny all of the earthly joys that were perceived as temptation. Perhaps they inwardly feel like the joy is missing because I too didn’t understand that God is Love and he wants us to be joyful and have a wonderful life of experience, not denying our true nature but embracing it. You attract more flies with honey, so they say, and when you feel joyful, it is contagious. When you are consciously loving and caring it spreads in the most delightful way. Make no mistake, I know some wonderfully kind people who follow the Catholic faith, as well as many other faiths. It takes time to get to know who you are as a human being and find the path that works for you. That path is not a straight line. We have to take all sorts of scenic routes and endure many trials and errors before we find what works for us individually. We are beautifully and wonderfully made and I believe we are meant to express that in the most joyful ways. Some are called to live a life in service and find the most inner peace in that capacity. Some of us are meant to have boots on the ground being helpers and listeners and watchers for opportunities to be of service. Whatever our pull is to oneness and resonates within us is good. My spiritual journey has been a circuitous route with many detours and bumps along the way. You can't have the good without the bad, which is why I say better late than never. My name is Polly Duncan. I live in Saint Louis, Missouri. I have two amazing kids, my husband Daniel is from Jamaica, where I learned so many life lessons about kindness, giving and enjoying life—and that enjoying time together is the most important thing. We love to cook, garden, and raise chickens with a dog and two cats. What the world needs now is Love and more Love, and we would like to help share all the love and kindness we have to offer.

Meditation for Oneness: Discover Inner Peace, Spiritual Connection, and Unlock Your Full Potential at Work and Life In today's relentless, fast-paced world, finding genuine peace and a moment of stillness often feels like an elusive dream. We're bombarded with notifications, deadlines, and a constant stream of information, leaving us feeling frazzled and disconnected. But what if the key to lasting tranquility, a profound sense of connection, and enhanced mental clarity lies within? What if, by turning inwards, you could unlock not just spiritual growth but also sharpen your focus and boost your productivity? This guide will explore the inner journey through meditation, unveiling how it can lead to oneness—a state of being where you recognize the interconnectedness of all things—while also revealing its powerful impact on your ability to focus, concentrate, and thrive in your work and daily life. Understanding Oneness: A Foundation for Inner Peace and Outer Success Oneness is more than just an abstract philosophical concept; it's a deeply felt awareness of our inherent interconnectedness. It's the realization that we are all part of a vast, intricate, and beautiful universal tapestry. Understanding and embracing oneness offers a potent antidote to the feelings of isolation, division, and stress that plague modern life. By recognizing our shared humanity and the interconnectedness of all things, we transform how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world around us. It fosters a sense of belonging, which cultivates harmony, empathy, and compassion. Moreover, recognizing this interconnectedness can even have profound implications for our work life. When we view our colleagues not just as coworkers but as fellow travelers on this journey, we tend to collaborate more effectively, communicate with greater clarity, and approach challenges with a more open and understanding mindset. Meditation: Your Pathway to Inner Unity, Calm, and Razor-Sharp Focus Meditation is not about escaping reality or checking out from life’s responsibilities. On the contrary, it's about consciously returning to your authentic self, grounding yourself in the present moment, and building mental resilience. By intentionally directing your focus—be it on your breath, a calming mantra, or a guided visualization—you quiet the incessant mental chatter that often clouds our judgment and drains our energy. This cultivates mental clarity, fosters presence, and unlocks deep reserves of inner peace. This practice of stillness is the gateway to a profound connection with yourself and the universe. It’s also the secret ingredient to enhanced focus and concentration. When we train our minds to stay present and focused during meditation, we carry that skill into our daily lives and our work. The ability to filter out distractions, stay on task, and concentrate deeply becomes significantly easier. A Simple Meditation Practice for Achieving Oneness, Focus, and Clarity You don't need to embark on a spiritual retreat or master esoteric rituals to experience the benefits of meditation. You can start your journey to oneness, mental clarity, and improved focus with a simple 5- to 15-minute daily practice: Find Your Sanctuary: Choose a quiet, peaceful space where you can sit or lie down comfortably without being interrupted. This space should feel safe and inviting. Body Posture: You can sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor or sit cross-legged on a cushion. Keep your back straight but relaxed. Alternatively, you can lie down, but be careful not to fall asleep. Grounding and Centering: Gently close your eyes or soften your gaze. Take a few deep breaths. Feel your body connecting with the surface beneath you. Allow yourself to settle into the present moment. Deep Breathing Exercise: Become aware of your breath. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen to expand. Exhale slowly through your mouth or nose. Use your breath as an anchor, a focal point that brings you back to the present whenever your mind wanders. Observe Your Thoughts Mindfully: Thoughts will inevitably arise. Instead of trying to suppress them, simply observe them with detached awareness. Acknowledge each thought without judgment. You are not your thoughts; you are the observer of your thoughts. Letting Go: Gently imagine each thought drifting away like a cloud in the sky or a balloon floating upwards. Don’t get carried away by any single thought. Let them pass. Expand Your Awareness: As your mind calms and the mental chatter subsides, gently expand your awareness. Sense the infinite vastness within and around you. Recognize your connection to all things—to the room you're in, to the earth beneath you, and to the entire universe. Bringing Focus to the Present: Now gently shift your focus again to your breath or a single point in your environment. Train your mind to remain on this object. Each time your attention drifts, bring it gently back. This strengthens your ability to focus. Transitioning into Daily Tasks: After the meditation, take a moment to observe how you feel. Notice any shift in your mental state. Carry this sense of calmness, clarity, and focused awareness with you as you transition into your day and your work. The Multifaceted Benefits of Meditation: Beyond Oneness Meditation activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which counteracts the stress response, reduces anxiety, and fosters emotional resilience. As we become still, we shift from reactive to responsive, cultivating openness, compassion, and a deeper appreciation for the sacredness of life. Regular meditation helps us experience profound unity. It also yields many practical benefits, especially in the context of work and productivity: Enhanced Focus and Concentration: Meditation trains the mind to stay present, which directly translates to improved focus during tasks, meetings, and projects. Reduced Stress and Anxiety: By calming the nervous system, meditation lowers stress levels, preventing burnout and improving overall well-being. Improved Decision-Making: With a clearer mind, you make more rational, informed decisions, free from the influence of emotional turmoil. Increased Creativity: Quieting the mental chatter allows for new ideas and insights to emerge, boosting your creative potential. Better Emotional Regulation: Meditation helps you manage your emotions effectively, preventing impulsive reactions and fostering more constructive responses. Improved Memory: Studies suggest that regular meditation can enhance memory and cognitive functions. Enhanced Productivity: When you're focused, calm, and clear-headed, you can work more efficiently and achieve more in less time. Creating Collective Harmony and Collaborative Workspaces Through Inner Peace and Focus Your journey to oneness and improved focus has a ripple effect that extends far beyond yourself. Embodying inner peace creates a positive impact on those around you, fostering compassion, understanding, and collaboration. When we heal ourselves through meditation, we contribute to a more harmonious and productive world. In the workplace, this translates to: Improved Communication: Calmer minds lead to clearer, more effective communication. Reduced Conflict: Practicing mindfulness helps manage conflict, fostering healthier working relationships. Increased Team Cohesion: Shared experiences of inner peace and mindfulness can strengthen team bonds. More Productive Meetings: With improved focus, meetings become more efficient and goal-oriented. Integrating Meditation into Your Workday You don't need to spend hours meditating to reap the benefits. Even a few minutes throughout the day can make a difference. Consider: Starting your day with meditation: loop Begin with 5-10 minutes before checking email or diving into work. Taking mindful breaks: Instead of scrolling through social media, take a 2-minute breathing break to recenter. Meditating before important meetings: Calm your mind and prepare to be fully present. Conclusion: Embracing the Inner Journey for a More Focused, Peaceful, and Meaningful Life In a world filled with noise and distractions, stillness is a powerful tool. Meditation allows us to return to our true nature—a part of the universal whole—while simultaneously sharpening our focus and enhancing our productivity. Embrace the inner journey, practice regularly, and experience the transformative power of oneness and mindfulness. Start your meditation practice today and discover the peace, connection, and focus that resides within, and watch as it enhances your work, your relationships, and your entire life. About the Author: Amanda McCool is a writer, wellness advocate, and digital storyteller passionate about helping others find freedom, healing, and joy through everyday adventures and authentic connections with self and others.

Explore the reflective nature of existence and how life’s experiences mirror our inner states. Discover how frequencies, mindfulness, and self-awareness guide growth, connection, and alignment with our highest potential.

This article explores the profound concept of oneness, blending scientific insights with spiritual wisdom to reveal the interconnected nature of all life. It delves into how our thoughts, beliefs, and actions shape our shared reality, highlights the sentience and wisdom of animals, and underscores the vital role of nature in sustaining life. By recognizing our unity with all living beings, the piece inspires a more compassionate and sustainable way of living, fostering harmony and respect for the consciousness that binds us all.

At its core, breathwork involves controlled breathing techniques that enhance the body’s natural healing abilities. Various forms of breathwork exist, including Pranayama, Holotropic Breathwork, and the Wim Hof Method, each with unique approaches but sharing a common goal: to harness the breath for improved well-being. Let’s dive into the transformative power of conscious breathing and explore how it can heal and transform our lives.

Explore the Akashic Records and discover profound spiritual insights with Jessi Whan. Learn how this ancient etheric archive connects us to past lives, reveals soul contracts, and guides us toward personal growth and alignment. Dive into the journey of self-discovery and access universal wisdom through your unique Akashic Records.

As enlightened beings, we know the power of intention. The energy we carry and share shapes the world around us. Each and every one of us has the capacity to raise the Planet’s energy! Every choice we make holds the potential to heal or to harm. Our decisions ripple through the collective energy field, touching lives in ways we might not even realize. As stewards of light and energy, we can choose to act with love, awareness, and purpose, creating harmony rather than dissonance. Negativity can sweep into our lives like unexpected storms. There are times when we can see it or feel it coming. We might have it standing right in front of us and feel helpless. There are times when we hear about it – something done to someone else. Perhaps we are witness to it. Or, maybe it is directed at us. Maybe the Earth has been harmed or other living creatures upon it. Whether you’ve experienced it personally or witnessed it, negativity can feel heavy and overwhelming. As enlightened beings, it can be a struggle to know how to bring in our light in order to transform the negative vibration and raise the Planet’s energy. We may doubt that we are able to contribute, however, know that each and every energy being, in fact, contributes! And, as more of us come from the intention of creating positive consciousness, then together we will create a brighter future for everyone. This is not just about ignoring the haters or brushing off negativity. It’s about meeting those challenges with love, courage, and compassion. The experience of negativity isn’t just in the moment. It can remain and linger if not met with light. Sometimes we see negativity happening where someone’s being bullied, mocked, singled-out, or excluded. As conscious beings, we can step in and be the light in those moments. Here are some ways to take action: Show Support : Let the person being targeted know they’re not alone… that not everyone feels or believes the same way in the world. A kind word, a reassuring smile, a helping hand, or even standing beside them can make a world of difference. We, ourselves, might have experienced something similar. Standing for someone else, giving them support, also helps us feel supported! Speak Up : If it feels safe to do so, calmly call out the negativity. For example, you might say, “That’s not kind,” or “Let’s focus on something positive.” Often, just naming the behavior can shift the energy. Spread Positivity : Counteract the negative energy with acts of kindness. Compliment someone, share something uplifting, or simply radiate calmness. Your positive energy can ripple out and inspire others. Inspire Empathy in Others : If the situation allows, gently encourage everyone involved to consider how their actions might affect others. Questions like “How do you think they might feel?” can shift perspectives without confrontation. Anchor in Love and Light : Center yourself and visualize being a beacon of peace. Imagine sending out waves of love to surround and neutralize the negativity in the situation.  Send Healing Energy : Focus on both the person exhibiting negative behavior and those affected. Picture them surrounded by healing light, easing their pain and softening their hearts. Silently affirm something like, “May they find peace, may their hearts open, and may love guide their actions.” Hold Space for Compassion : Recognize that cruelty often stems from pain or fear. Hold space in your heart to have empathy for the person’s struggles, even if their actions are hurtful. This act of compassion can help transmute the energy of the situation. Visualize Neutralization : Envision a bubble of golden or white light around the individuals involved. See this light dissolving the negative energy and replacing it with harmony and understanding. Elevate the Energy Field : Use mantras, chants, or prayers to raise the vibration of the space. Silent affirmations like “Om Shanti” or “Peace, love, and harmony” can shift the atmosphere toward love. Be an Example of Peace : If you choose to interact, do so calmly and respectfully. Your peaceful energy can serve as a grounding force, inspiring others to shift their own energy. Call on Higher Guidance : Invite the support of angels, guides, or higher beings to bring healing to the situation. Trust that their presence will amplify your intentions. Visualize Collective Healing : Imagine a world where kindness replaces cruelty, and compassion reigns. Hold this vision in your heart as a powerful prayer for humanity. Most of us know that kindness is one of the purest vibrations we can emit. A small act of compassion sends waves of healing energy into the Universe. These acts uplift not only the recipient but also the giver; expanding the field of love that connects us all. When we choose not to engage with kindness, we miss an opportunity to strengthen this web of connection. Worse, we risk adding to the energy of separation, leaving someone feeling unseen. As enlightened beings working to raise the Planet’s energy, we have a responsibility to be mindful of the vibrations we contribute to in the collective. And for all of us who have been the target of negativity or hate, we know it feels very deliberate. It’s often made to feel that way so that we hurt. Knowing this experience first-hand can do several things for us. It can: Help us to be more aware of our actions against others – that if we have ever felt hurt, we don’t want to do it to others and cause them pain. Help us to feel more sympathetic toward the pain of others. Desire to be more aware of our intentions toward others and the Planet. So what are some ways to help keep ourselves protected if we are attacked by hate or negativity? Consider some of these techniques: Set Your Intention: When you start your day, set an intention of being positive, to live consciously that day, to raise the Planet’s energy, and to transform negativity. Pause and Breathe : When you feel attacked, your first instinct might be to defend yourself or fight back. Instead, take a deep breath. This gives you a moment to respond thoughtfully rather than react emotionally. Try Not to Take It Personally : Remind yourself that their negativity is not about you. It’s a reflection of their own struggles. Repeat this mantra: “I am not their pain.” Remember, too, that you have the choice to take it internally or not. You don’t have to accept their gift of negativity if you don’t want to. Choose Love : It’s tempting to meet negativity with negativity. But that only feeds the cycle. Instead, respond with kindness. For example, you might say, “I’m sorry you feel that way. I hope things get better for you.” This doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means you’re strong enough to rise above. Protect Your Energy : Imagine a bubble of light around you, keeping out the negativity. This visualization can help you feel safe and grounded. If necessary, step away from the situation to regain your balance. If you are so inclined, call Archangel Michael to protect you! Every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Sometimes, especially when we are in the moment of negativity or attack, we don’t see or desire to see anything positive. However, after some time has passed, we can ask ourselves: “What can I learn from this?” Here are some thoughts: Building Resilience : Facing negativity can make us stronger. Each time you choose love over anger, you’re training yourself to stay calm in the face of storms. Practicing Empathy : By understanding where negativity comes from, you deepen your compassion for others. Spreading Light : Every time you respond positively, you’re setting an example for others. You’re showing that love is stronger than hate and that light can cut through even the most intense darkness. Creating Personal Boundaries : Sometimes negativity reveals areas where we need to set firmer boundaries to protect our well-being. It could reveal triggers or insecurities that we need to work on for ourselves. As enlightened beings, we have a responsibility to help heal the world. There are many ways we can contribute to this invaluable purpose such as: Taking time each day to connect with your inner peace. Imagine sending love and light to the Planet. This simple practice can create powerful ripples. Focus on the good in your life. Gratitude raises your vibration and helps you stay positive. Let your actions inspire others. Smile at strangers, hold the door open, or say thank you. Small acts of kindness can have a big impact. Share messages of hope and love, whether through social media, conversations, or creative projects. Use your voice to uplift others. Connect with like-minded people who share your desire to raise the Planet’s energy. Together, you can amplify your impact. Whether planting a tree, cooking a meal, or helping a neighbor, approach each act with the intention of creating harmony and joy. With a common goal of contribution to create a brighter future for all on the Planet, there are so many things we can do for ourselves and others! What happens when we consistently choose love, kindness, and unity? The energetic impact is profound: Harmonious Relationships : Acts of kindness deepen connections and build trust. They align relationships with higher vibrations of love and respect. A Collective Energy Shift : Your actions inspire others to act with love, creating a cascade of positive energy that uplifts entire communities. Inner Alignment : Acting from love strengthens your connection to Source and nurtures your spiritual growth. Sure, the world can feel heavy at times, but there is so much light within each of us. By choosing love over fear, compassion over judgment, and understanding over anger, we create a brighter future. Imagine a world where kindness is the norm, where people lift each other up, and where the Planet vibrates with positive energy. Imagine a world where enlightened beings unite to heal the collective energy field. This is not a distant dream; it is a reality we can create, one choice at a time. That world is possible, and it starts with us. Every thought, word, and action contributes to the energy of our shared existence. As enlightened beings, we are uniquely positioned to lead by example. The next time you’re faced with a choice, choose to elevate, to heal, and to love. Together, we can weave a world where every being feels seen, cherished, and connected – where all creatures on this living Planet can imbibe in the increased vibrational energy! It begins with you. It begins with us – each and every one of us. Let’s co-create this higher vibrational reality now! About the Author : Elisa “E.J.” Frank has been a writer and a student of energy modalities for decades.