Living from Ego Energy vs. Living from Your Heart Energy

In the grand tapestry of human existence, our lives are often shaped by two distinct forces: ego energy and heart energy. These two sources of motivation drive our actions, decisions, and relationships, and understanding the difference between them can profoundly impact the quality of our lives.

Ego Energy: The Dictator of Self-Preservation

Ego energy is that inner voice that constantly seeks to assert itself, validate its importance, and protect our self-image. It is the driving force behind our desire for recognition, power, and success, often at the expense of others. When we live from ego energy, we are trapped in a never-ending pursuit of external validation and comparison.

Living from ego energy can manifest in various ways. It may cause us to engage in self-centered behavior, such as always wanting to be right, insisting on our way, or refusing to admit our mistakes. Ego energy fuels jealousy, insecurity, and competitiveness, as it views life as a zero-sum game where someone else’s gain is our loss.

The relentless pursuit of ego-driven goals can lead to stress, anxiety, and unhappiness. We may find ourselves in a constant state of restlessness, always striving for more and feeling dissatisfied when we fall short. Relationships can suffer as we prioritize our own interests above all else, often at the expense of empathy and compassion.

Heart Energy: The Compassionate Guide

In stark contrast, living from your heart energy is a path rooted in love, empathy, and authenticity. It arises from a deep connection with your inner self and a genuine desire to connect with others on a meaningful level. Heart energy is about showing kindness, compassion, and understanding, both to yourself and those around you.

When you live from your heart energy, you prioritize collaboration over competition, understanding over judgment, and love over fear. You approach life with an open heart and a willingness to embrace vulnerability. This openness allows for genuine connections with others, fostering trust and nurturing meaningful relationships.

Heart energy is about living in the present moment, appreciating the beauty of life, and finding joy in simple pleasures. It’s the source of inner peace, contentment, and fulfillment, as it transcends the never-ending cycle of ego-driven desires and anxieties. When you live from your heart energy, you discover a profound sense of purpose that extends beyond personal gain and recognition.

The Choice: Ego or Heart?

The choice between living from ego energy and living from your heart energy is a daily one. It’s about recognizing the motivations behind your actions and making conscious decisions about how you want to show up in the world.

Here are some practical steps to help you shift from ego-driven living to heart-centered living:

1. Self-awareness: Take time to reflect on your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Are they driven by a need for validation and self-preservation, or are they rooted in empathy and love for yourself and others?
2. Practice mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness meditation or other practices that help you stay present and connected to your inner self. Mindfulness can help you recognize ego-driven thoughts and redirect your focus to your heart energy.
3. Cultivate compassion: Make a conscious effort to be kind and understanding toward yourself and those around you. Practice active listening, empathy, and forgiveness.
4. Release attachments: Let go of the need for external validation and material possessions. Instead, focus on the richness of experiences and the quality of your relationships.
5. Embrace vulnerability: Understand that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. When you allow yourself to be vulnerable, you open the door to authentic connections and personal growth.

In Conclusion

Living from ego energy and living from your heart energy represent two distinct paths in life, each with its own set of consequences. While ego energy may provide short-term gains, it often leads to stress, dissatisfaction, and strained relationships. In contrast, heart energy offers a path to inner peace, fulfillment, and meaningful connections.

The choice is yours, and it’s one that can transform your life. By cultivating self-awareness, practicing mindfulness, and embracing compassion, you can shift towards a heart-centered way of living that not only benefits you but also has a positive ripple effect on the world around you. In the end, it’s the choice between living a life driven by fear and insecurity or a life filled with love and authenticity. Choose wisely.

Exploring Spirituality: Nurturing the Soul through Religious Beliefs

Spirituality and religion are intertwined concepts that have been part of human existence since time immemorial. While spirituality is often considered a personal journey, religious beliefs provide a structured framework for exploring and deepening one’s spiritual connection. In this blog post, we will delve into the essence of spirituality and its coherence with religious beliefs, emphasizing how religious practices can nourish and guide individuals on their path towards spiritual growth and fulfillment.

Understanding that Spirituality encompasses the innate human desire to seek meaning, purpose, and connection beyond the material world. It involves the exploration of one’s inner self, transcendent experiences, and the quest for a higher power or divine presence. Religion, on the other hand, is a system of beliefs, rituals, and practices that provide a framework for expressing and cultivating spirituality within a community. While spirituality can exist independent of organized religion, religious beliefs offer individuals a rich tapestry of wisdom, traditions, and spiritual practices that can support their spiritual journey.

Religious beliefs provide individuals with a set of guiding principles, moral values, and a comprehensive worldview that can help make sense of life’s complexities. These beliefs offer solace, hope, and a sense of purpose, enabling individuals to find comfort in times of adversity and navigate the challenges of life with resilience and faith. Moreover, religious rituals and practices form an integral part of religious traditions, serving as powerful tools for spiritual growth. Through prayer, meditation, worship, and communal gatherings, individuals engage in activities that foster a deep connection with the divine, cultivate gratitude, and promote self-reflection.

One of the significant advantages of practicing spirituality within a religious framework is the sense of community and shared spiritual experiences it offers. Religious communities provide a support network where individuals can find companionship, guidance, and encouragement on their spiritual path. Participating in group worship, religious ceremonies, and community service activities not only strengthens the communal bond but also enhances the collective spiritual experience. The shared rituals, celebrations, and prayers foster a sense of unity, reminding individuals that they are part of something greater than themselves.

While religious beliefs and practices can be a source of solace and guidance, it is essential to acknowledge that spirituality is a deeply personal journey. Each individual may interpret and experience their religious beliefs differently, and the path to spiritual growth may vary. Moreover, religious institutions and dogmas can sometimes present challenges, leading to conflicts between personal beliefs and established traditions. It is crucial for individuals to maintain an open mind, engage in critical thinking, and seek a balance between personal interpretation and the collective wisdom of their religious tradition.

Spirituality and religious beliefs are interconnected facets of the human experience, offering individuals a framework for exploring their inner selves, finding meaning, and cultivating a connection with the divine. Religious beliefs provide a structured pathway to navigate the complexities of life, fostering personal growth, and nourishing the soul. While religion can offer a sense of community and shared spiritual experiences, it is crucial to approach religious teachings with an open mind, allowing for personal interpretation and critical thinking. By blending the wisdom of religious traditions with personal exploration, individuals can embark on a profound spiritual journey that resonates with their beliefs, values, and aspirations.

Embracing spiritual living: Nurturing the essence of your soul

Introduction

In a world brimming with fast-paced living and ever-increasing demands, it is no wonder that many individuals find solace and meaning in the realm of spiritual living. Regardless of one’s religious beliefs, spirituality encompasses a broader understanding of our existence, connecting us with something greater than ourselves. It is an eternal flame that burns within each of us, waiting to be ignited and nurtured. In this blog, we will explore the essence of spiritual living and delve into ways to embrace it in our daily lives.

Finding Inner Peace

Spiritual living begins with finding inner peace, which is the cornerstone of our well-being. In our hectic lives, it is crucial to carve out moments of stillness and tranquility. Meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply spending time in nature can help us quiet our minds and reconnect with our inner selves. By creating a space for inner peace, we open ourselves to the wisdom that lies within, allowing us to navigate life’s challenges with grace and clarity.

Cultivating Gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful catalyst for spiritual living. By practicing gratitude, we shift our focus from what is lacking to recognizing the abundance in our lives. Each day, take a moment to reflect on the blessings, big or small, that surround you. Whether it is the warmth of the sun on your face or the support of loved ones, expressing gratitude opens our hearts and fosters a sense of contentment and fulfillment.

Living with Purpose

A life devoid of purpose can leave us feeling disconnected and unfulfilled. Embracing spiritual living involves aligning our actions with our higher purpose. Take the time to reflect on your passions, values, and the impact you want to make in the world. By incorporating these aspects into your daily life, whether through work, relationships, or community service, you will find a deep sense of purpose that transcends the mundane and brings true fulfillment.

Connecting with Others

Spiritual living is not an isolated journey; it thrives through connections with others. By nurturing meaningful relationships and fostering a sense of compassion and empathy, we expand our spiritual horizons. Engage in deep conversations, actively listen to others, and embrace diversity and inclusivity. Through these interactions, we not only enhance our own spiritual growth but also create a ripple effect that can positively impact the lives of those around us.

Seeking Wisdom and Knowledge

Continual growth and learning are fundamental aspects of spiritual living. Explore various spiritual traditions, philosophies, and practices to expand your understanding of the world and your place in it. Engage in reading books, attending workshops, or participating in discussions that deepen your knowledge. By seeking wisdom, we open ourselves up to new perspectives and insights that can enhance our spiritual journey.

Living in Alignment with Nature

Connecting with the natural world is an integral part of spiritual living. Nature has a profound ability to ground us, reminding us of our interconnectedness with all living beings. Spend time outdoors, marvel at the beauty of the sunrise or sunset, or immerse yourself in the serenity of a forest. By living in harmony with nature, we foster a deeper reverence for life and cultivate a sense of unity and belonging.

Conclusion

In a world where material possessions and external achievements often take center stage, spiritual living offers us a sanctuary, a guiding light that illuminates our path. It is a way of being that encompasses finding inner peace, cultivating gratitude, living with purpose, connecting with others, seeking wisdom, and embracing the natural world. By nurturing our spiritual essence, we tap into a source of infinite love, wisdom, and joy that resides within us, empowering us to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. So, let us embark on this transformative journey, for in spiritual living, we discover the true essence of our souls.

Unfolding Naturally

A natural flow throughout your day in all your tasks…allows life to unfold naturally.

How hard is that?

Well, apparently, very hard to do, at least in the beginning.

Here’s my story:

Years ago, many times I would find myself stuck, standing in the middle of my kitchen as if I were paralyzed. I felt as though I had so many things that I felt I needed to do that I could not figure out what to do first. I was stuck with indecision which is a big waste of time and thought. I literally couldn’t get out of my head long enough to figure out what to do first! I was not able to do any of the tasks I needed to do. My mind was cluttered and could not make decisions. I struggled with this often.

Many times I found myself standing in the center of the kitchen; not knowing what I should do first! I cant even remember how many things I thought I wanted or needed to do that day but, none of the tasks were even started I was frozen with indecision.

Literally the same happens with my writing. I have a cookbook in the works, a half dozen book titles in my head, writing for my new business; Connie’s Naturals, the list goes on…

The day I listened to “The New Psycho-Cybernetics” Audiobook by Maxwell Maltz on YouTube. is when I began to apply the method and techniques I understood in the book.

At first, getting into the flow seemed so unnatural because of my need to control and direct. But, once I became mindful of my “stuckness” I began to notice and understand what I needed to do to do to allow my day to flow. A breathing technique working with your true self allows your soul-self to shine through!

Every time I felt stuck (and believe me the first day I was taking these breath breaks often!) When I became mindful that I was stuck. I asked myself “what do I want” no answer is needed, I took a deep breath, I imagined my breath traveling up my spine and down with each in and out breath; from the Root Chakra to the Star Soul Chakra. Stating my intention through the first breath and then just letting the alignment take place with each following breath; I continued to take deep breaths and continued to imagine the breath traveling up and down my spine. I repeated the breath until I began to type again. Every time I used this method all my work seemed to flow with ease.

Here is the simple Mind/Breath technique:

Ask yourself, “what do I want” no answer is needed, take a deep breath, imagine the breath traveling up your spine and down; from the Root Chakra to the Star Soul Chakra. Stating your intention through the first breath; Intention statement: “Cleanse and clear my Chakra System and therefore cleansing and clearing my mind so that my soul self shines through me instead of the ego self” then just allow the alignment take place continuing the deep breaths and continuing to imagine the breath traveling up and down your spine.

Take this technique; follow it word for word, your soul self will modify it to be for your best and highest good. Trust your inner soul self… Breath.

Crutches

Last week after working outside on our newly acquired two acre property; which is filled with brier bushes and some trash. I was clipping briers and picking up trash, walking over uneven ground the whole day. At the time I didn’t think it was anything out of the ordinary but, looking back, it was probably not a good idea to work all day in this 55-year-old body lol. Anyway, I began to have some pain in my knee when I walked up and down stairs. So during the week I nurtured it by avoiding stairs as much as possible, elevating it up when I was able and making a healing butter and rubbing it on twice a day. All of which were helping but not relieving it totally and by the end of the week it got worse. My husband Joe suggested that I take the oregano essential oil like I normally do when I’m trying to get rid of a cold. So I thought why not! I took his advice and on Friday morning and took one shot of my oregano essential oils. *(Please research this fully if you decide you want to try this. If you are interested in How I use the oregano essential oils please write me with your contact information and I will send you various links and personal notes on the subject. I will be publishing things in the future about this but for now I’m just here to tell my story and provide some insight in life Friday morning I took)

Friday morning I took the essential oils. The next day, I was able to enjoy some pink Himalayan salt therapy. Although it wasn’t hurting I could still feel there was something going on around my knee. It felt slightly swollen. But I felt so good that I was able to enjoy a stroll with a friend for a few miles in nature. It only hurt when we walked too fast and going up hill. So, e slowed down and fortunately, we were able to avoided the hilly paths. Sunday it bothered me very little and I also took a walk but by the end of the short one mile walk my knee was hurting again. I also put ice on it for 20 minute intervals and that did make it feel much better. Today, Monday morning I am taking another shot of the oregano essential oils. Joe found a pair of crutches for me to use until my knee mends.

So the entire reason I began this post was to talk about the crutches in our life. I have never had to use crutches physically that is, until this week. So I believe crutches came into my physical life for a reason. Physical crutches made me think of mental crutches and so I began a short journey this morning on my mental crutches.

What is the purpose for crutches? Crutches are used physically to take the weight off of a particular part of our body but, how are mental crutches used in life? I think mental crutches take the weight off a particular person, place or feeling. So my question to you is what do you use mental crutches for? Do you use them in a healthy/ not so healthy way?

Mental crutches and physical crutches have both positive and negative benefits because in some situations they can be useful tools. It’s a matter of knowing when to use a tool and when not to use the tool. I can think of a couple crutches/tools in my life that benefits myself as well as others in my life. And I enjoy them and celebrate them. I can also think of a few crutches and tools that I’ve used in the past that do not benefit me or others.

I’m not going to tell another story, at least not now, I just want to provoke some thought about your own crutches. Please share or not what you found when you dig deep. Thanks again I appreciate you all! The love of the creator surrounds you❤️

Please notice all the flowers that spring up automatically 🌼

Dead Nettles

I also challenge you to notice the flowers and plants around you that you have not planted in your yard and gardens. Take a picture of them. Identify them. Connect with them. Love them and understand why Gaia put them here on her magnificent Earthself. They may be poisonous or nutritious and medicinal. Learn to love the plants for what they are then look inside yourself and love yourself for who you are. This is our journey for this lifetime. If they’re edible thank them for their service and find a way to utilize them in your life. The plant kingdom loves us. They are drawn to us. When we’re in need, they show themselves to us. Love them, and most of all; Be Grateful ❤️🌼🌎

hairy bittercress

Natural ways to stay healthy

Here are two simple things you can do to keep your family healthy.

1. Cut onions and distribute them on plates or bowls in each room of your home or office. This absorbs germs floating around me air.

2. Take a half a teaspoon of manuka honey each day. If you’re currently sick take a half teaspoon twice a day.

Lets Make Pickles! It’s Easy!

Hi there! Thank you for stopping in to check out this recipe! I hope to be adding more fun and easy recipes that I have created, or revised, and tested.

I have included a few affiliate links in the recipe. Please feel free to use my affiliate links to buy the items used for this recipe and to purchase other items you normally buy through Amazon.com.

I am just learning about the Amazon affiliate program. Turns out anyone can buy things through the links I provided and I will earn a small percent. It all adds up to help fund this website. Here is another link I thought you might be interested in: Himalayan Pink Salt Slab 8×12, appx 12.5 lbs each by SaltWorks.

 Thanks again! Happy cooking and shopping! 

I have been buying Pink Himalayan sea salt for a few years now from Saltworks.com and I love the Hawaiian sea salt too! When I first tried it I thought it was a little strong to use alone so, i mixed half Pink Himalayan sea salt and half “>Red Clay Alaea Hawaiian sea salt. It was a hit! Now I still use the mix because of the great mild flavor.

Lets make Pickles! Here is the recipe that got me started.

Chef Johns Bread and Butter Pickles  are so easy to make I have made multiple batches and modified the batch a couple times depending on the spices and ingredients I have on hand when I’m making them. The spice combination that I include in this recipe is my favorite version.

Check out Chef Johns Bread and Butter Pickles on AllRecipes.com.

Here is my version:

2 pounds of cucumbers, cauliflower and onions or whatever you have. If you want to do more adjust the amount of pickling brine to suite the amount of vegetables.

3 Tablespoons Saltworks Pink Himalayan sea salt

Brine:

1 cup apple cider vinegar

1 cup white vinegar

2 cups white sugar

Spice Mix:

1 teaspoon celery seed

1 teaspoon Cardamon

10 bay leaves

1/2 teaspoon turmeric

1/2 teaspoon whole Rainbow peppercorns

1/4 teaspoon whole allspice

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

Equipment:

Large glass or ceramic bowl, 6 to 8 quart stainless steel pot, ladle, wooden spoon, pint size mason jars with lids and rings, canning jar funnel, cutting board, paring knife, slicer, vegetable peeler.

Directions:

Clean and dry vegetables, lay out to dry on an all cotton bar towel.

Slice cucumbers thin or thick however you prefer. Thinly slice onions. and peppers. Separate cauliflower into small clusters.

In a large glass or ceramic bowl generously toss the pink Himalayan salt with the cucumber and vegetable mix so that every piece is mix thoroughly with the salt. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate, I refrigerated mine overnight the first time I made them and at least 4 hours other times, both ways turned out yummy!

After refrigerating, rinse the vegetables under cold water for 10 mins, thoroughly rinse all the salt off the vegetables. This takes a little time but, be sure they are thoroughly rinsed for the best taste.

Making the Brine with Spices:

In the 8 quart pot add, apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, sugar and stir. Add spice mix  directly into the vinegar mixture, stir and heat to boiling then add the vegetable mix and stir. Bring this mixture to almost boiling, remove from heat and allow to cool. Jar {Place in jars} and enjoy!

Who IS!? Connie in Ohio?

Connie lives in Ohio with her husband Joe,

their two dogs, Bubba and Louie, and their Cat, Missy.

They live on 3 acres of land where she has developed a unique spiritual perspective on gardening.  Doing her best at living a life of conciseness and gratitude she began intuitively sensing plants needs.

Working with the stream in their backyard Connie is working to develop a spiritual method to direct and control the water during a storm.

Connie loves cooking, baking, gardening, gathering native plants to make healing teas, working with a variety of material. Being a gifted Intuitive Healer, Connie works with many people to relieve their pain and improve their overall health. Recently she added Ordained Minister to her repertoire so she may perform Marriages, as well as perform house, property and business Blessings.

Her husband Joe, characterizes her as:  Ever-learning, adventurous, and a caring person that enjoys life.

Connie feels like she lives a truly Magickal life.

Definition of Magic and Magick:

• Magic, in the popular sense, is the art of imitation and trickery for the sake of entertainment.
• Magick is the real deal. Magick pulls on natural energy from the universe.

Gluten free converted “Banana banana bread” from “kitchme.com”

This recipe was very easy to convert to gluten-free. I put my changes in parentheses. Check out my pinterest page:

Banana Banana Bread (gluten-free recipe)

2 cup all-purpose flour (1/2 c. ” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>almond flour, 1/4 c. potato flour, 1/4 c. corn flour)
1 tsp. baking soda
1⁄4 tsp. salt
1⁄2 cup butter
3⁄4 cup brown sugar
2 egg, beaten
2 1⁄3 cup overripe bananas, mashed
( I also added 1/4 c. chia seed, 1/4 c. homemade peach butter but you could substitute applesauce)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan. ( I baked mine in 4 small bread pans. I think this help them cook even and all the way through. Lightly grease with coconut oil. )
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar. Stir in eggs and mashed bananas until well blended. Stir banana mixture into flour mixture just enough to moisten. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
3. Bake in preheated oven for 60 to 65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack.

Growing Beautiful Dahlias

Dahlias are beautiful! They are easy to grow and provide many blooms throughout the summer. I grow mine from seed but you can buy ” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Tubers too!

Let me know if you decide to grow some Dahlias this year.

With love and light, Connie In Ohio.