Crystal Candle Shop Newsletter

November 2011     http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Greetings!  Here we are already coming up on the Thanksgiving Holiday, my how time flies!  Harvests are all gathered and it is now time to celebrate a plentiful harvest with a feast!  Many feasts will be taking place across the world with gratitude for the bounty set before us.  Here at Crystal Candle Shop we also like to show our gratitude for family, good friends, the lessons learned in the past year, and the bountiful love present in our lives.  We would like to express at this time gratitude to all our loyal friends of Crystal Candle Shop, for all the emails we receive, for all the questions we are asked.  Thank you!  Blessings!

 We have been busy gathering the prizes for our GIVE AWAY DRAWING and very soon and will be announcing our drawing and what will be given away!  Stay in touch!

 We are also in the process of adding a new product line in the near future!  We are excited about this new line and hope you will be too!

 Be sure to read our Article of the Month and our Recipe of the month!  Visit Crystal Candle Shop today!

Insight Meditation

 It is very hard to handle stressful situations. Every individual should learn how to become aware of it and accepting it. One form of meditation which is very effective in dealing with the problems and difficult situations of life is known as mindfulness mediation or insight meditation. This is often considered by many people as a miraculous technique.

 It is a fact that frustrations, stress, disappointments, anger, and other related negative emotions affects the mind and body adversely. Such negative actions and emotions must be handled effectively. Likewise, set backs must be accepted truly without causing health problems. Insight meditation is like a medicine that helps people in dealing with negative situations and emotion in a manner that is most effective to them.

 Insight meditation allows or requires individuals to become aware of their environment. They are more likely sensitive in perceiving each moment. Thus, they prefer to accept situations that are stressful rather than avoiding it. If you become aware about the internal status of your mind upon insight meditation, then you can learn to accept difficult circumstances without too much resistance.

 By practicing insight meditation, you can train your mind in achieving a tranquil state without being affected by external forces. The mind is aided in developing the needed strength to obtain such peacefulness.

 Today, the world around you is so busy, no time for meditating. But remember that wherever you are, it is your choice to become still or not. Set specific time and space where you can do insight meditation where nobody can disturb you.

 You can start practicing insight meditation. Sit in an upright position with the legs crossed. Focus on your breath or something else like physical and mental processes that are helping you to become aware of your present inner state and thought patterns.

 Always watch out for your breath. It does not leave you provided that you are conscious. Imagine that you breathe in spirit. When you are breathing out, you express spirit. Concentrate on the air that passes down from your nostrils, to your air passages, and to your lungs, and vice versa when you breathe out. Focusing on your breath can accomplish two things. Your concentration is slowly shifted away from the problems in your mind as well as it brings your focus to the Higher Power of your understanding.

 Your practice of insight meditation lets you concentrate on your actions, thoughts, and present situation non-judgmentally. Insight meditation doesn’t encourage you to evaluate or think your past actions or take your thoughts on the uncertainty of the future. It trains and helps your mind not to be distracted by external disturbances, concentrate your thoughts, and relax your mind.

 Insight meditation is conducted or practiced through formal and informal techniques. Formal insight meditation incorporates yoga. In this way, you can be aware and control your breathing patterns in connection with particular body movements. When you take every life’s experience with pleasure and enjoyment, then you are using an informal insight meditation.

 The strategy used in insight meditation is insight or introspection wherein you get clear pictures of your inner states and thoughts, achieve thought concentration, and train your mind in perceiving situations and things more effectively.

 So, you can say goodbye to your problems and live a better and a healthy life.

 Blessings!  www.crystalcandle-shop.com

 Recipe of the Month

 Cranberry Sauce Supreme

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup organic sugar
• 1 (12 ounce) package fresh organic cranberries
• 1 can organic mandarin oranges
• 1/2 cup chopped dried organic apricots
• 1/2 cup organic raisins
• 1 apple – peeled, cored and diced
• 1 pear – peeled, cored and diced
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Directions

Bring water to a boil and add sugar to dissolve.  Add cranberries and all other ingredients.  Reduce heat to low and cover.  Simmer for 30 minutes or until cranberries burst, stirring occasionally.  Pour into a glass bowl and cool to room temperature.  Serve.

Visit Crystal Candle Shop today and check out our new products!  http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

                                                 Company Mission Statement

To always supply our customers with only the highest quality products at the lowest prices available, while continuing to provide the best customer service possible.  To assist spiritual seekers with knowledge, education and tools to enhance in the most positive manner their spiritual and personal growth.

 Many Blessings—

Crystal Candle Shop

http://crystalcandle-shop.com

Crystal Candle Shop Newsletter

October 2011     http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Greetings!  Autumn has come upon us here rather quickly.  The leaves are turning and there is a chill nip in the air.  It is at this time that our bodies and spirits start slowing down and become reflective of all we did and learned through the fast paced days of summer.  It is this time of reflection the sets the stage for incorporating new teachings and skills into our lives and during winter those new things can become wisdom to pass to the next generation.  It is also a time for working on projects such as crafts, sewing, beadwork or what ever craft you do.  We look forward to this time of peaceful reflection and rest and hope that each of you finds pleasure in the season also.  Blessings!

 We want to have another GIVE AWAY DRAWING very soon and would like your feedback on what we should give as prizes!  Please browse through our web-store and use the contact form to tell us what you would like to see us give away!  We look forward to hearing from you!

Be sure to read our Article of the Month and our Recipe of the month!  Visit Crystal Candle Shop today!

Helpful Remedies for Cold and Flu Season

By Shelley Lincoln

 Here we are again entering the cold and flu season.  Keeping ourselves healthy during this season is very important and I’ve found that natural herbal remedies are excellent preventatives as well as gentle treatment for colds and flu.  Natural remedies also avoid the negative side effects of pharmaceuticals.  I hope the following recipes are helpful for you and your family.

 Disclaimer

These herbal uses and properties are only given for reference purposes.

I am not responsible for any actions or outcome of use of these remedies, taken by persons using these references.

Please be aware that like food a person may have a personal reaction to an herb that is not necessarily a toxic substance.

If not sure what the uses and dosages of herbs to be used are please consult a medical or holistic practitioner

Information provided is not designed to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any illness, or injury and is provided for informational purposes only.

Always consult a medical doctor, or other alternative medical practitioner when suffering from any disease, illness, or injury, or before attempting a traditional or folk remedy.

Keep all products away from children.

As with any natural product, they can be toxic if misused.

Health Tea

 1 part ginger root

1 part ginkgo leaves

1 part red clover tops

1 part nettle leaves

1 part meadowsweet leaves

1 part calendula

2 parts chamomile

2 parts lavender flowers

1 part peppermint leaves

a pinch of stevia.

Place all herbs in a tea ball or bag, and cover with boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes.

Add sugar, honey, sweetener, milk,

cream or whatever, to taste.

Bronchial Congestion Tea

 1 clove crushed garlic

1  oz Anise seeds

1 oz Calendula flowers

3/4 oz Marshmallow root

1/3 oz Licorice root

Crush aniseeds and add to herbs. Pour 1 cup boiling water over

mixture; cover & steep 10 minutes.

Immune Booster Tea

 1 clove crushed garlic

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

4 slices fresh ginger root

1/4 teaspoon crushed red peppers

Steep in hot water 10-15 minutes.  Sweeten with sugar, honey, stevia to taste.

 Most of these herbs are readily available in your local herb shop or in many stores online.  They are also easily grown in your own herb gardens!  Enjoy and be healthy!  Blessings!  www.crystalcandle-shop.com

 Recipe of the Month

Autumn Home Soup

Ingredients

• 6 fresh organic stewed tomatoes
• 1 pound organic ground beef
• 1 cup chopped organic onion
• 1 cup diced organic carrot
• 1 cup diced organic celery
• 2 medium diced peeled organic potato
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/8 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups organic beef stock

Directions

Puree tomatoes in a blender; set aside. In a large pot, cook beef over medium heat and drain. Stir in tomatoes and remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Discard bay leaf before serving. Serves 8-10.

Visit Crystal Candle Shop today and check out our new products!  http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

                                                 Company Mission Statement

To always supply our customers with only the highest quality products at the lowest prices available, while continuing to provide the best customer service possible.  To assist spiritual seekers with knowledge, education and tools to enhance in the most positive manner their spiritual and personal growth.

Many Blessings—

Crystal Candle Shop

http://crystalcandle-shop.com

   Crystal Candle Shop Newsletter

                   September 2011         http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Greetings!  As summer slowly comes to a close and yields to the approach of fall, it is during this time that we see our plants going to seed, animals starting to break their  summer routines, and the first hint of fragrance of the oncoming fall beginning to scent the air.  Our summer gardens have been mostly harvested and the fall produce is reaching maturity.  It is time to gather our seeds for next years planting and start preparing to settle in for the long slumber of winter.  Autumn brings thoughts of the approaching Autumn Equinox Ceremonies and holiday season.  We wish everyone a bountiful fall harvest and happy feasting!  Blessings!

 We want to extend our appreciation to all of our loyal customers and readers.  We enjoy your questions and comments very much.  Now we want to ask your opinion.  We would like to know what you would like to see in our newsletters and what products you would like to see in our Shop.  Please email your opinions and thoughts!  We look forward to hearing from you!

 Be sure to read our Article of the Month and our Recipe of the month!  Visit Crystal Candle Shop today!

Addictions and Spirituality

By Shelley Lincoln

 As I celebrate my 29^th year of sobriety and my 15^th year working as an addiction counselor, I cannot help but to reflect back over the years and all that I’ve seen and learned.  I can recall the success stories of clients that have changed their lives and those are truly amazing.  I also recall, with a heavy and sad heart, the multitudes that have not succeeded in recovery and continue to suffer the torture and slavery that addictions bring to their lives. 

 One of the reasons I’ve often heard for alcohol and other drug (here after referred to as AOD) use is that people are seeking a spiritual experience, an altered state of consciousness and insight into their purpose in life, a “spiritual awakening,” or to expand their awareness.  They have heard of how some drugs have been used by tribal peoples to produce a vision or spiritual experience and decide they will try the method.  What they don’t realize is those ceremonies were conducted by the holy men/women, there were strict guidelines and certainly those ceremonies did not happen every day.  Frequent use of AOD for spiritual seeking can and does very quickly lead to addiction accompanied by all the devastating consequences.  This type of spiritual seeking almost cost me my life and it has cost many their lives. 

 Since those days I have learned many techniques for spiritual experience and altered states of consciousness and would like to share a few of those here.  When using these methods don’t expect the grand vision of the great winged white buffalo coming with thunder to tell you your life purpose (although this can happen), but you can expect to begin having what I call the “ah-ha” experience. You can gain much personal insight and understanding, and most of all a peaceful heart and deep connection to all of creation.

 Running is one of my favorite methods to obtain a spiritual “high”.  I like to run in nature, perhaps on a nature trail or along the river.  I run at a slow, comfortable pace just enough to obtain the aerobic effect, for about an hour and a half.  (ever hear of “runners high?”)  During my runs I achieve an altered state of consciousness and awareness which is very profound.  I have had many “ah-ha” experiences while running, answers to questions suddenly dawn on me, understanding of many things deepens, and what should be obvious suddenly becomes obvious.  I won’t get into the brain chemistry of this, however, what I will say is that this state can last for hours or even days.  You do need to consider your health and fitness for this method and it might be a good idea to consult your physician if you aren’t accustomed to running.  Start slowly and gradually increase the length of your run.

 Breathing techniques are another of my favorites.  I like breathing because you can do it anywhere and no one knows!  Breathing can be used during stressful events as well as during breaks from your job, or times you want to relax and just stop thinking for a bit.  Breathing techniques help one step back from a situation and become the neutral observer allowing for emotional detachment from a situation.  Focused breathing also produces a state of meditation during which it is easy to have the “ah-ha” experience.  Personally I like the techniques of Pranayama.  There are many to choose from and it is easy to find what works for you.  There are many good books on Pranayama available and many good teachers from whom you can learn.

 Another practice I often engage is what I call “nature sitting.”  I choose a place out in nature away from the flow of society and I sit.  I close my eyes and focus on experiencing nature through my other senses, engaging one at a time.  First I listen.  I listen until I hear all the sounds we normally miss such as a leaf falling, a tree creaking, small animals bustling through the brush, the song of a nearby stream.  When my hearing is fully awake I engage smell. I begin becoming aware of all the subtle fragrances of the natural world, the smell of the soil, the musty forest floor, the sweet scent of a nearby flower, the smell of the current season.  Then I engage tactile senses.  I experience the comforting warmth of sunlight, the gentle caress of a passing breeze, an insect as it explores my skin, my connection to the Earth Mother as she supports me.  This practice in itself is a very spiritual experience bringing a deep sense of peace and well being.  It also has benefit of providing profound insight and spiritual awakening.

 Meditation practice is used universally for spiritual awakening, insight and spiritual experience.  There are many forms of meditation practice that can be learned and used from the classic sitting meditation to walking meditation.  All forms of meditation enhance spiritual experience, awakening and awareness.  To begin a meditation practice I suggest purchasing a guided meditation CD as the guidance helps one to achieve the meditation state easier in the beginning.  It is important to find one that works for you that you are comfortable with.  The voice of the guide is also important as is the background music being used.  Listen to a demo before purchasing and find one that is soothing and relaxing to you.  Use it until you can achieve the meditation state on your own.  Then you can work on maintaining a state of meditation while doing any other activity.  I use meditation when working on projects and find that I can tap into my creativity easier and problem solve easier.

 In my experience, the methods I’ve discussed here also produce a pure state of euphoria.  AOD also produce a state of euphoria.  If a person has crossed into addiction then they will always seek that state of euphoria again.  It is very important for a recovering addict to be introduced to states of euphoria that are superior to the “high” of AOD because human instinct dictates that we seek the most euphoric and pleasurable experience possible.  The few methods I’ve mentioned here are certainly worth a try if you or someone you love is experiencing addiction issues.  They are also wonderful ways to enhance your spiritual life when addictions aren’t an issue.  I hope you find this helpful.  Blessings!

 Recipe of the Month

Stuffed Pumpkin

• 1 medium pumpkin
• 6 tart apples – peeled, cored and chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• 1 (16 ounce) can organic whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 ½ cups fresh pineapple chunks
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup raisins
• ½ cup molasses
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger root
• 1 tablespoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon allspice

Directions

1. 1.        Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Cut out top of pumpkin, scrape out seeds with a spoon.
2. 2.       In a large bowl, stir together all ingredients and mix well. Spoon the mixture into the cleaned pumpkin, and replace top.
3. 3.        Set pumpkin on a thick baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour or until pumpkin begins to soften. Remove from heat, and stir, scraping the sides gently, so that some pieces of pumpkin fall into the stuffing mixture. Serve as a side dish while still hot.

Visit Crystal Candle Shop today and check out our new products!  http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

                                                 Company Mission Statement

To always supply our customers with only the highest quality products at the lowest prices available, while continuing to provide the best customer service possible.  To assist spiritual seekers with knowledge, education and tools to enhance in the most positive manner their spiritual and personal growth.

Many Blessings—

Crystal Candle Shop

http://crystalcandle-shop.com

Crystal Candle Shop Newsletter

 August 2011     http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Greetings!  We hope everyone is enjoying the long sun filled days of summer.  Here at Crystal Candle Shop we have been enjoying the summer ceremonies, hiking, camping, practicing our wilderness survival skills and watching the beautiful star-filled summer night skies.  Our garden harvests are starting to come in and it is always special to sit down to a meal prepared from foods we have grown or gathered ourselves.    Summer is a special time and it is sad to see it go each year, but autumn is fast approaching.  We hope your summer has been as special as ours.  Blessings!

 We want to extend our appreciation to all of our loyal customers and readers.  We enjoy your questions and comments very much.  Now we want to ask your opinion.  We would like to know what you would like to see in our newsletters and what products you would like to see in our Shop.  Please email your opinions and thoughts!  We look forward to hearing from you!

 Be sure to read our Article of the Month and our Recipe of the month!  Visit Crystal Candle Shop today!

Spirituality v. Religion

By Shelley Lincoln

 I have taught many classes on spirituality and with every class when I say “spirituality” people begin talking “religion.”  Although the two can interact and be interrelated, there is a distinct difference between spirituality and religion.  One does not have to be “religious” to be spiritual.

 In my experience I have found that most religions focus mainly on faith and salvation and these are obtained through the belief in and practice of specific dogmas, doctrines, rituals, prayers and include worship of a specific deity in a specific manner. 

 Spirituality, on the other hand, is mainly focused on the higher qualities of the human spirit.  Qualities such as; love, compassion, forgiveness, patience, tolerance, contentment/happiness, peace, and harmony. There is focus as well on the qualities that bring happiness, health, well-being to self and others and includes a deity or deities of your understanding.

 I find that many people have been conditioned to limit their spiritual practice to specific times and specific rituals or ceremonies and to separate their spirituality from their every day life.  They seem to lack understanding of how to incorporate their spirituality at work, home, in relationships, at gatherings or out in public. 

 In order to effectively manifest our personal spiritual beliefs every minute of every day we must first explore our core values, ethics, and core belief system and get to know ourselves on a very intimate level.  We must identify how we acquired our values, ethics, and beliefs in the first place and whether or not they still serve us in a positive manner.

 Self exploration is not a simple task.  One must become consciously aware of every interaction, every reaction and every response to the daily business of living.  Then one must question, what was my motivation for my reaction or response?  What personal belief is involved?  Where does this belief, value, ethic come from?  Does this serve the higher good of all involved?  Is this action helpful or harmful?  What are the potential long term effects of my response?

 At this point most people will find that many of their daily actions come in direct conflict with their spiritual beliefs.  It is important to not belittle one’s self for this.  We all carry the values, ethics and beliefs we have been taught from our parents, teachers, friends and other prominent figures involved in our lives.  Many of our values, ethics and beliefs have become unconscious and we simply react to any given situation according to those unconscious beliefs.  It is our quest now to bring them into conscious awareness, analyze, examine, and determine whether our core selves are in congruence or conflict with our spirituality and the self we are striving to become.

 As I began this quest myself, I found one of the most difficult aspects was becoming present in the moment during my interactions.  I found I needed constant reminders.  Having a companion present to issue those reminders was not feasible, so I had to devise a method of self reminder.  I found a bracelet with little bells on it in my jewelry box and wore that as my reminder.  I trained myself to hear the bells and to question and analyze every action/reaction prior to committing it.  This technique worked well for me and before long I found I no longer needed the bells because now my mind was trained to be fully present in the moment of every interaction and to question everything I did or said before taking action.  Training myself this way I find that I am able to “respond” to an interaction from the values, ethics and beliefs I want to reflect rather than “react” from old and obsolete programming.

 Using this technique will also begin to help one to determine which spiritual qualities come naturally and easily to you and which are more difficult.  When one determines which spiritual qualities are more difficult one can then discover ways to eliminate the disconnection between one’s inner spiritual desires and outer expressions.

 Our spirituality, values, ethics and beliefs are constantly growing and evolving.  As we progress on our spiritual path we will find that we must analyze our values, ethics and beliefs many times as spiritual growth is a life long process.  Be kind to yourself on this journey.  Journey well as you become the change you want to see in the world.  Blessings!

Recipe of the Month

GRILLED EGGPLANT 

1 eggplant
1 stick butter
1 clove garlic, crushed
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper

Slice eggplant into 1/2 inch slices. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for about 20 minutes. In saucepan, melt butter. Add garlic and crushed red pepper. Brush both sides of eggplant with butter mixture and grill 6 to 7 minutes. While grilling. continue to brush with sauce.  When done remove from grill and sprinkle with parmesan cheese while still hot. 

Visit Crystal Candle Shop today and check out our new products!  http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

                                                 Company Mission Statement

To always supply our customers with only the highest quality products at the lowest prices available, while continuing to provide the best customer service possible.  To assist spiritual seekers with knowledge, education and tools to enhance in the most positive manner their spiritual and personal growth.

Many Blessings—

Crystal Candle Shop

http://crystalcandle-shop.com

Crystal Candle Shop Newsletter

June 2011 http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Greetings Friends!  Here we are, June at last and the Summer Solstice is fast approaching.  We always look forward to the warmth and light of the summer season and the fast growth of all the new seeds we planted in spring.  For those of us in the northern hemisphere, Summer Solstice will begin on June 21^st at 10:16am PDT.  There are many feasts, festivals and ceremonies being planned to celebrate the arrival of summer.  We hope you enjoy the Solstice and any celebrations you are planning!

Be sure to read our Article of the Month and our Recipe of the month!  Visit Crystal Candle Shop today!

Article of the Month:

Courtesy of   http://www.indians-artifact.com

Sun Dance

The sun dance is the best known and most dramatic of North American Indian ceremonies. The sun dance ceremony and religion is an important part of both Native American and American history.

The Sun Dance ceremonies practiced differently by several Native American tribes, but many of the ceremonies have features in common, including fixed gazing at the sun while dancing, blowing of eagle bone whistles, fasting and sometimes, self torture.

The ceremony was the most spectacular and important religious ceremony of the Plains Indians of the 19th- century North America, ordinarily held by each tribe once a year usually at time of the Summer Solstice.

Though only some tribe’s Sun Dances include the piercings, the Canadian Government outlawed some of the practices of the Sun Dance in 1880, and the United States government followed in 1904. The Sun Dance ceremony is now again fully legal and is still practiced in the United States and Canada. Women do not pierce their skin in the same manner as men. A woman’s piercing is in her upper arm, and an eagle feather is attached until the piercing is removed. Some men do not do pierce at all, such as the Shoshone in Wyoming. They may pierce if they desire to. A Sundancer is sometimes required to commit to dancing for four years, for the four compass directions.

For more information and articles please visit: http://www.indians-artifact.com

Recipe of the Month

Summer Fruit Salad with Creamy Sauce

• 3/4 cups sour cream
• 3/4 cup cream cheese
• 3-6 tablespoons honey (sweeten to taste)
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
• 8 cups mixed fresh fruit (such as blueberries, cherries, strawberries, sliced nectarines, peaches, various chunks of melon )

• 3 tablespoons toasted almond slices, or chopped walnuts
• Mint sprigs (optional)

Preparation

Whisk sour cream, cream cheese and honey in medium bowl to blend. Toss fruit together in large bowl. Spoon fruit mixture into individual bowls. Spoon sauce over fruit. Garnish with nuts and/or mint, if desired.http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Company Mission Statement

To always supply our customers with only the highest quality products at the lowest prices available, while continuing to provide the best customer service possible.  To assist spiritual seekers with knowledge, education and tools to enhance in the most positive manner their spiritual and personal growth.

Many Blessings—

Crystal Candle Shop

http://crystalcandle-shop.com

Crystal Candle Shop Newsletter

May 2011 http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Greetings Friends!  May is the month in which we celebrate all Mothers.  Women are the life-giving force to future generations. They are the foundation, pride and continuation of all cultures. The term “Mother Earth” is bestowed upon our wonderful planet as reference to life sustaining gifts provided by nature. Because life begins with birth and mothers nourish that life, it seems fitting that numerous legends tend to include women when referring to their origin.  The ultimate achievement for a woman in societies is being a mother and rearing a healthy family. Even though many women attain other distinctions, in no way do these tasks affect their role as bearers and raisers of children.  Crystal Candle Shop staff wish all Mothers and future Mothers a very happy Mother’s Day.

Be sure to read our Article of the Month and our Recipe of the month!  Visit Crystal Candle Shop today!

Article of the Month:

Insight Meditation: Let the Power of Your Mind Make a Big Difference

It is very hard to handle stressful situations. Every individual should learn how to become aware of it and accepting it. One form of meditation which is very effective in dealing with the problems and difficult situations of life is known as mindfulness mediation or insight meditation. This is often considered by many people as a miraculous technique.

It is a fact that frustrations, stress, disappointments, anger, and other related negative emotions affects the mind and body adversely. Such negative actions and emotions must be handled effectively. Likewise, set backs must be accepted truly without causing health problems. Insight meditation is like a medicine that helps people in dealing with negative situations and emotion in a manner that is most effective to them.

Insight meditation allows or requires individuals to become aware of their environment. They are more likely sensitive in perceiving each moment. Thus, they prefer to accept situations that are stressful rather than avoiding it. If you become aware about the internal status of your mind upon insight meditation, then you can learn to accept difficult circumstances without too much resistance.

By practicing insight meditation, you can train your mind in achieving a tranquil state without being affected by external forces. The mind is aided in developing the needed strength to obtain such peacefulness.

Today, the world around you is so busy, no time for meditating. But remember that wherever you are, it is your choice to become still or not. Set specific time and space where you can do insight meditation where nobody can disturb you.

You can start practicing insight meditation. Sit in an upright position with the legs crossed. Focus on your breath or something else like physical and mental processes that are helping you to become aware of your present inner state and thought patterns.

Always watch out for your breath. It does not leave you provided that you are conscious. Imagine that you breathe in spirit. When you are breathing out, you express spirit. Concentrate on the air that passes down from your nostrils, to your air passages, and to your lungs, and vice versa when you breathe out. Focusing on your breath can accomplish two things. Your concentration is slowly shifted away from the problems in your mind as well as it brings your focus to God.

Your practice of insight meditation lets you concentrate on your actions, thoughts, and present situation non-judgmentally. Insight meditation doesn’t encourage you to evaluate or think your past actions or take your thoughts on the uncertainty of the future. It trains and helps your mind not to be distracted by external disturbances, concentrate your thoughts, and relax your mind.

Insight meditation is conducted or practiced through formal and informal techniques. Formal insight meditation incorporates yoga. In this way, you can be aware and control your breathing patterns in connection with particular body movements. When you take every life’s experience with pleasure and enjoyment, then you are using an informal insight meditation.

The strategy used in insight meditation is insight or introspection wherein you get clear pictures of your inner states and thoughts, achieve thought concentration, and train your mind in perceiving situations and things more effectively.

So, you can say goodbye to your problems and live a better and a healthy life.

Recipe of the Month

BBQ Pork Kebabs

Need wooden skewers, soaked in water for about a half  hour prior to use.

For barbecue sauce:

• 12-18 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar
• 4 tablespoons ketchup
• 3 tablespoons molasses (not blackstrap)
• 2 tablespoon fresh minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh small hot chili pepper(1 or 2), including seeds
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger root, peeled and minced
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon onion powder

Stir together all sauce ingredients in a heavy saucepan and briskly simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Pour sauce to a medium bowl and cool to room temperature.

Pork:  About a pound of pork tenderloin, cut into strips about 2” wide and 1/2 inch thick. Thread 2 skewers, 1 at a time and 1 inch apart, lengthwise through each slice of pork.  Sprinkle with a little salt and coat both sides with barbecue sauce, then grill on oiled grill rack, uncovered, turning once, until cooked through, 3-5 minutes total. http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Company Mission Statement

To always supply our customers with only the highest quality products at the lowest prices available, while continuing to provide the best customer service possible.  To assist spiritual seekers with knowledge, education and tools to enhance in the most positive manner their spiritual and personal growth.

Many Blessings—

Crystal Candle Shop

http://crystalcandle-shop.com

Crystal Candle Shop Newsletter

April 2011 http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

With spring time upon us, we here at Crystal Candle Shop have been quite busy preparing for the days of sunshine and warmth.  We have been building our above ground garden planters, starting seeds in the greenhouse, turning the compost pile and making ready for a season of growing.  New spiritual growth also begins in spring and turns to rapid growth during the summer months.  As we prepare our gardens for growing our food, we are also preparing our hearts and spirits for the seeds of new knowledge and wisdom.  What a wonderful time of year!  Be sure to read our Article of the Month!  An excellent meditation practice for those spring nature walks!  Visit Crystal Candle Shop today!

Article of the Month:

Walking Meditation as a Modern Way to a Healthier Life

Meditation has always been associated with solitude, tranquility, and physical inactivity. When one talks of meditation, you may usually come up with a scenario in which a person finds a secluded area, closes his eyes in silence, and rests his body while working his mind out. Does meditation always have to be like this?

Meditation is an art. A method. A skill. A process. It is the art of keeping in touch with yourself, of discovering your entirety and the many facets of your being. It is also a skill that must be developed. It requires discipline and right mindset. You cannot simply think that you will meditate and expect to achieve a result right after. This requires the tuning of one’s consciousness. Meditation typically involves a set of procedures and guidelines to be followed. Typically, the success of the activity will depend on the adherence to the given principles and rules.

One interesting form of meditation that deviates from the old and traditional concept is walking meditation. Walking meditation is a lot different from other forms of meditation known to many. For one, you will not have to be physically inactive just to do it. In fact, you need to move and be active – you need to walk! You have to actively engage your mind and your body in this activity in order to experience a holistic positive result. This brings another benefit. Since walking is a daily activity, you can actually grow by meditation everyday!

You also will not have to find a secluded place just so you can meditate. Anywhere will do. Actually, a noisy and crowded place is even encouraged. Here is where the challenge lies. Concentration is important and awareness must be focused. You must not allow the outer world to bind your mind into it – by the things that you see, hear, or whatever you perceive. You may be aware of them, but you must guard not to do anything about them. Do not cling to anything.

The guiding principle behind walking meditation is achieving a balanced awareness, equilibrium, between your inner self and the outer world surrounding you. This meditation will invite you to feel your entire body, all the workings of the parts that make you up, being aware how each of your body parts operates. While doing this, you also have to notice your emotion and your mood. These are all done while you walk. The outside world need not be lost in your focus. There will always be stuffs that will catch your attention as you meditate, and you are not to resist. You are not to hang on to these, though. You have to let them pass by, observing them without doing anything at all.

This is the real sense of awareness. The ideal result of walking meditation is the person’s consciousness of the outside world while being completely aware of his inner self. When this is achieved, many of the puzzles and complexities of life will become clearer and simpler. By bridging the gap between what is within and what is out of yourself, you can take full control of your life and enjoy a healthier and a more satisfied lifestyle.

Recipe of the Month

Spring Greens, Spinach and Strawberry Salad

Ingredients

• 2 bunches organic spinach, torn into bite-size pieces
• 1 bunch of fresh organic spring greens mix
• 4 cups sliced organic strawberries
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/2 cup organic sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

1. In a large bowl, toss together the greens and strawberries.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, sugar, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds. Pour over the spinach and strawberries, and toss to coat. http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Company Mission Statement

To always supply our customers with only the highest quality products at the lowest prices available, while continuing to provide the best customer service possible.  To assist spiritual seekers with knowledge, education and tools to enhance in the most positive manner their spiritual and personal growth.

Many Blessings—

Crystal Candle Shop

http://crystalcandle-shop.com

March 2011 http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Welcome March, month of the Spring Equinox!  Spring is a very rich and fertile time for all beings upon our earth.  Spring is a time in which wonderful positive and healing changes in consciousness can be born.  Spring is a time of new life when seeds burst forth from Mother Earth and blossom in all their glory.  It is the time when the Sun returns bringing Light and warmth to all life.  With love in our hearts, in our thoughts and in our actions, may each one of us plant seeds of transformation that will lead to the healing of our Mother Earth and all of her children.  We at Crystal Candle Shop send you blessings for a fertile and joy-filled spring!

Stop in today and check out Crystal Candle Shop’s Spring Candle and Candleholder sales!  Great savings on selected new arrival items just in time to bring the warmth and new life of spring to your home!

Article of the Month:

Spring Gardening

Do you want to create a wholesome food producing garden that’s as aesthetically pleasing as it is productive? If so, you must first discard the idea of a square patch of tilled Earth with linear row after linear row of neatly organized plants marching stoically across it.  Instead begin to think creatively about the space you have available and develop a design for maximum beauty and productivity within that space.  Imagine different shapes, multi-levels, and maybe even some decorative features such as a fountain in the center.  If you are really motivated you can even Feng Shui your garden.  Creating beauty in your design will enhance your pleasurable gardening experience and create for you a space that is relaxing and soothing.

Raised beds and multiple bedding plans as the interior design are ideal.  Raised beds of even a scant 6 inches above ground level provided significantly better drainage than a bed built at ground level. Raised beds heat up faster in spring, adding days (or even weeks) to your growing season. Building up a bed 12 or 18 inches aboveground level gives you the ability to fill it with the ideal mix of topsoil and other planting mediums. And when your garden is at a raised level, weeding and harvesting are less of a strain on your back.

Vegetable garden beds built no broader than 4 to 5 feet and separated by paths, allow you to work the middle of each bed without stepping into it. This keeps you from packing the soil and crushing plants underfoot. An additional benefit of separating your garden beds is that you can work with your feet in a clean path rather than in the middle of a muddy garden bed.

Forget about planting in rows and instead plant in patterns.  Maybe consider planting a combination of garden vegetables, flowers and herbs within your space.  Thinking of plant size, color and texture you can create a garden that is a work of art!

Some garden plants will require trellises or cages to grow well, such as tomatoes and beans.  Consider creating these from bamboo or other decorative material rather than the traditional poles, stakes and wire cages.  You can also hang some wind chimes through your garden to discourage uninvited guests from feasting on your produce.

The main thing is to have fun, enjoy your gardening and in return your garden will provide you with plenty of fresh, wholesome foods for your family as well as many hours of pleasure!

Recipe of the Month

Garden Pizza

Garden Pizza is one of our favorites here at Crystal Candle Shop!  This recipe has changed and evolved over time.  Feel free to be creative and add your own ingredients!

• 1 pound prepared pizza dough, preferably organic whole-wheat
• 1 medium yellow summer squash
• 1 medium zucchini squash
• 1 cup fresh asparagus, cut into 1-2 inch pieces
• 3/4 cup sliced onions
• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2-3 diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp diced or crushed garlic
• 1-2 tsp oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1 tsp crushed red peppers (optional)
• 1 cup shredded extra-sharp Cheddar
• ½ cup parmesan cheese

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Coat a large rimmed baking sheet or pizza pan with cooking spray.
2. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about the size of the baking sheet.  Some prepared dough resists being stretched. If your dough is too springy, let it rest for about 15 minutes, then try rolling it out again. Transfer to the baking sheet. Bake until slightly crisp on the bottom, about 8 minutes.
3. Cook asparagus, squash, onions, oregano and garlic in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until beginning to soften.
4. Spread the vegetables and tomatoes over the crust. Slowly sprinkle salt, pepper and red pepper over the vegetables. Sprinkle the pizza with cheddar cheese and top off with parmesan cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted, 8 to 10 minutes. http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Company Mission Statement

To always supply our customers with only the highest quality products at the lowest prices available, while continuing to provide the best customer service possible.  To assist spiritual seekers with knowledge, education and tools to enhance in the most positive manner their spiritual and personal growth.

Many Blessings—

Crystal Candle Shop

http://crystalcandle-shop.com

Crystal Candle Shop Newsletter

February 2011 http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Here we are in February already.  Time seems to be passing quickly.  Here, the groundhog saw his shadow, legend says that we can expect 6 more weeks of winter.  Valentine’s Day will be here soon, a day when across the United States and in other places around the world, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones.  We, the staff of Crystal Candle Shop, wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day and may an abundance of Love come your way!

The Postures of Meditation: The Daily Guide to Success

During the ancient times until now, people practice meditation because of its provided advantages. Incorporating meditation as part of your daily life can make a big difference regarding your attitude and outlook in life. But because meditation is a procedure, it involves several steps as well as postures when doing it.

1.         Cross legged posture. Various spiritual traditions and meditation teachers suggest or prescribe various meditation physical postures. One of the most popular postures is the cross legged position which includes the lotus position. It is taught in most meditative traditions that the spinal cord must be kept straight. So, slouching is not a good idea. This is because, when you sit straight, it encourages good circulation of what they call as spiritual energy, which is the life force and vital breath.

2.         Seated posture. A meditator can sit on the chair with his or her bare feet, as what the New Thought is teaching. In Orthodox Christianity, a meditator can sit on the stool. While in Theravada Buddhism, a meditator is walking in mindfulness. In Sukhothai, Thailand, walking meditation of the monks is called bas-relief.  The meditator sits up keeping his or her back straight holding the spine and head in alignment without leaning and thighs parallel to the floor. The hands are rested comfortably on the arm’s chair or on the knees.

3.         Kneeling posture. The meditator kneels with both knees on the floor keeping his or her buttocks resting on his or her toes and heels which are almost touching.  The hands rest on his or his thighs.

4.         Lying down posture also known as corpse posture or savasna in yoga. The meditator rests on the carpet keeping his or her legs straight and relaxed. Nevertheless, this is not used more often since it mimics the natural posture of sleeping. The meditator can sometimes fall asleep. This is effective in reducing stress rather than a meditation process.

5.         Incorporating mudras or hand gestures. There is a theological meaning behind these gestures. Based on Yogic philosophy, these can affect consciousness. One example is the common hand-position of the Buddhist. The right hand rests on the top of the left hand with touching thumbs similar to the begging bowl of Buddha.

6.         Incorporating various repetitive activities in stillness such as humming, chanting, or deep breathing to help in inducing a state of meditation. The Soto Zen practitioners do their meditation in front of a wall with open eyes. However, most mediation schools are assuming that the eyes are half-open or closed.

The duration and frequency of meditation also vary. There are nuns and monks who bow for a lifetime meditation. However, the broadly accepted duration is 20 or 30 minutes. This length may increase as the process goes on as what experienced meditators revealed. To obtain the benefits of meditation, it is advisable to follow the advices and instructions of the spiritual teacher. Most traditions require daily practice. But some may experience frustration or guilt when they failed to do it. Sometimes, meditators may complain about knees, especially during long hours of kneeling on one’s knees or sitting with crossed legs.

Keep in mind that perseverance and acceptance are needed to become successful. This can help you during prolonged hours of meditation and increase focus on your everyday lives.

Recipe of the Month, Why not make a special candy treat for your lover!

Strawberry Fudge Drops

Strawberry Fudge Drops have the taste of strawberry candy, the texture of smooth fudge, and a great crunch from the addition of toasted nuts. These are also delicious when decorated with chocolate chips or drizzled melted chocolate. This recipe yields 2 dozen candy cups.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 4 tbsp strawberry gelatin (like Jell-O brand)
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1.25 cups cream
• 1 tbsp light corn syrup
• 2 tbsp butter, cubed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts

Preparation:

1. Set out 2 dozen small candy cups on a baking sheet and set aside. Combine the sugar, gelatin, salt, cream, and corn syrup in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan and place over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then insert a candy thermometer.

2. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the thermometer reads 240 degrees F (115 C).

3. Once at the proper temperature, remove the pan from the heat and add the cubed butter and the vanilla on top, but don’t stir them in. Allow the pan to sit and cool until the outside is lukewarm to the touch. This process will take 30-60 minutes, depending on the temperature of the room.

4. Once lukewarm, add the nuts and use a stiff spoon to start beating the fudge, stirring vigorously. Soon you will notice that the candy becomes thicker, more opaque, and starts to lose its gloss.

5. Once it reaches this stage, begin to spoon the mixture into the candy cups. If you wait too long, the fudge may start to set in the pan, but adding a spoonful or two of very hot water and stirring should loosen it up enough to scoop.

6. If desired, you can top each fudge cup with a toasted nut, or chocolate chips, or you can drizzle them with melted chocolate. Allow the fudge to set at room temperature, then serve. Strawberry Fudge Drops can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

This recipe and more at–http://candy.about.com/od/fruitcandy/r/strawberryfudgedrops.htm

Treat yourself or your Valentine to something special today! Visit our cyber shelves for that perfect Gift or CD Greeting Card!

http://www.crystalcandle-shop.com

Company Mission Statement

To always supply our customers with only the highest quality products at the lowest prices available, while continuing to provide the best customer service possible.  To assist spiritual seekers with knowledge, education and tools to enhance in the most positive manner their spiritual and personal growth.

Many Blessings—

Crystal Candle Shop

http://crystalcandle-shop.com

First let me explain why I dehydrate instead of freeze or can.  In the worst possible case scenario we may be without electricity, thus, all frozen foods would spoil very quickly.  Canned foods are bulky and heavy to transport in the event one has to move quickly to an isolated area to protect your food supply.  Dried foods are easy and lightweight to carry and have extended shelf life.

There is no need to go out and purchase expensive food dehydrators.  I don’t own one.  I use my regular oven.  First you will need to go to your local hardware store and purchase wire mesh.  Be sure to get the real wire mesh.  Then make wire mesh trays that fit on your oven racks.  Be sure to line your oven with tin foil!  Dehydrating can make a mess!  You will want to purchase a Seal-A-Meal and plenty of bags.  Once you have these items all you need is the food.

I have dehydrated blueberries, cherries, apples, carrots, potatoes, onions, and beef.  You will need to remove the pit from cherries before drying.  Cherries (after pitting) and blueberries should be dried whole.  Core the apples and slice apples, carrots, onions and potatoes to about ¼” thick.  I rinse them in lemon juice to help prevent them from turning brown.  I suggest you dry onions separately from other fruits or veggies as the onions can add their flavor to your fruit.  Place them in rows on your wire mesh and place on your oven racks.  Set the oven temp on about 90 to 100 degrees and that’s it.  Drying time for fruits and vegetables does vary from a few hours to a day or more.  After they are finished in the oven I remove them and put them in paper bags to sit for a few days to allow any residual moisture evaporate.  Then I put meal size portions in bags and vacuum seal them.

Drying meat is a little more involved.  Typical meats used for drying are beef, venison, goat, sheep, or moose, as well as some others.  Use only lean meat and trim any fat prior to drying.  Fat turns rancid and will spoil your meat. I like to cut meat into about 1/4” thick strips, jerky sized pieces. Meats should be soaked in salt water brine (about 5-10 minutes) or rubbed with salt prior to drying.  Do not use iodized salt.  Salt helps to remove excess moisture from them meat and acts as a preservative. Oven temperature should be set between 60 and 70 degrees.  Meat sometimes takes a day or longer to dehydrate sufficiently.  I let my meats air dry a few days before sealing.  Vacuum seal and date your package.

With just these few dried foods I can make a stew and have dried fruit for dessert, a good balanced meal.  Of course I also purchase organic dry foods in bulk and vacuum package, such as, flour, pancake mix, beans, pasta, coffee, dry milk, sugar, spices, herbs, etc.  My food supply also contains a good supply of organic heirloom seeds.  If times get rough, my family will eat!  And if the worst case scenario does not materialize, then I have a wonderful supply of easy to carry foods for camping and backpacking trips.