Addiction has reached epidemic proportions in our society.  Everyone is affected by addiction in one way or another.  If a person is not dependent on a substance, they have a family member or close friend who is.  I have been an addictions counselor for many years and I have seen addiction destroy families, break hearts, send people to prison and take lives.  Addiction knows no boundaries.  It affects people of all ages, races and socio-economic status.  Although some people seem to become addicted easier than others, no one is immune to it.

       It is very common for people to seek treatment who have become addicted to medications that were prescribed by their primary care physician.  The prescription drugs of abuse and addiction that will be covered in this article are narcotics used for pain management and anxiolytics used for treating anxiety or sleep disorders. The addiction to stimulants used to treat attention deficient disorder and attention deficient hyperactivity disorder deserves it’s own discussion and will be covered in a future article.  Of course physicians want to help their patients feel better and relieve their discomfort.   I am certainly not saying that there is no place for such medications, because indeed there is.  What I am saying is that these medications need to be monitored very closely and given for the most minimal time possible.  In addition, patients need to be presented with complementary coping strategies at the very onset of treatment by their prescribing doctor.  This is vital, because the patient is putting their trust in the direction of the physician.  If the issue of the possibility of dependency is addressed up front and alternative methods are part of the initial treatment plan, at least part of the onus of responsibility for healing is transferred to the patient, as it should be.  When people are proactive in their wellness, the outcome for recovery raises significantly.

         Most people do not realize that they are becoming dependant on narcotics and anxiolytics until they try to stop taking them and are faced with the pain and discomfort of withdrawal symptoms.  I have been amazed at the staggering number of people that seek treatment for chemical dependency who have been prescribed narcotics or anxiolytics for several years and have never had alternative methods of healing and coping suggested to them.  My book, Peace, Power and As Sound Mind, an Emerging Approach to the Treatment of Addiction was written with this issue in mind.  It was written for the addicted person, those that love them, and the professionals that treat them.  Through this work, I offer time-tested, evidence-based alternatives that bring the client comfort while freeing them from the pain of addiction.  I have used these practices with clients for several years in residential treatment, intensive outpatient and private practice settings.  The results have been tremendous.

          When the body and brain are in optimal emotional, physical, and mental health, brainwaves synchronize appropriately to the stimuli around you, and your brain produces adequate amounts of neurotransmitters to help you feel alert, relaxed, focused, and peaceful. However, when you are under mental or emotional stress, eating an unbalanced diet, or consuming excessive amounts of caffeine, alcohol, or other mind-altering, mood-altering substances, the natural production of these neurotransmitters becomes unbalanced. Over a period of time, these neurochemical imbalances can result in addiction disorders, depression, anxiety, inability to concentrate, and other mental and physical illnesses.

          Many people seek treatment for addiction to opiates and anxiolytics that were prescribed to them for the management of pain, anxiety and insomnia.  These people must learn new methods for controlling chronic pain and anxiety as well as methods that help re-establish their circadian rhythms and sleep patterns.  Alternative methods of pain management, relief from anxiety and insomnia include deep conscious breathing, relaxation techniques, yoga, guided meditation and auricular acupuncture.  All of these methods have the effect of releasing natural, pain relieving endorphins in the brain.

          Deep conscious breathing is the cornerstone of emotional, mental and physical health.  Deep conscious breathing increases oxygen in the system, improves blood circulation, lowers the heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and improves strength and endurance.  Most people breathe shallow and do not get enough oxygen in their body.  This leads to fatigue, stress and anxiety.  Deep breathing releases tension and stress and has a profound effect on pain management.   Breath-work, as it is sometimes referred to, can be easily taught in the office and can be easily implemented into ones lifestyle. Learning to breathe effectively can create improvements in all areas of a person’s life.   If the primary care physician will introduce deep conscious breathing at the onset of treatment for chronic pain, she will give the client coping methods to deal with the period of time when the medication begins to wear off, enabling them to stay ahead of the pain.  In many instances effective breathing will have such a profound effect on pain management that the dosage of the narcotic can be minimized and the course of treatment can be shortened, avoiding the possibility of opiate dependency.

          Breath work is a powerful antidote to anxiety and panic.  When the patient can learn to breathe slowly and deeply though the nose and out of the mouth, a panic attack can almost always be avoided.  Deep conscious breathing can slow down the thought patterns, enabling the person to rethink and stop looping and intrusive thoughts.  When the patient can learn to breathe in slowly to the count of ten and breathe out to the count of twelve, their blood pressure will lower, their thoughts will slow down and they will have the ability to address the underlying fear causing the anxiety.  Benzodiazapines can be extremely addictive and dangerous to detox from.  Seizures from anxiolytic withdrawal, in particular, benzodiazapines, are not uncommon.  When these medications are used, it is wise for the prescribing physician to make it clear up front that they are being used in the interim and monitored closely, as the patient works with a therapist and develops effective and appropriate coping methods.  I have found breath work to be a powerful tool in helping patients address the discomfort of anxiety and have taught them the tools to avoid panic attacks.  Although, deep breathing should not be considered as a stand-alone treatment when a patient is detoxifying from benzodiazapines, due to the danger of seizure and even death, it does help make the process easier and more comfortable.  In addition, it empowers the patient with coping tools to use for ongoing recovery.

          Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years in eastern medicine with excellent results in alleviating all kinds of ailments, including pain, anxiety and depression.  When combined with psychological counseling by addiction specialists, acupuncture can be a holistic method to help manage the pain and discomfort of withdrawal symptoms and curb cravings.  In my practice, I use the NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) protocol for auricular acupuncture extensively with my clients.  The NADA protocol uses five specific ear acupuncture points on each ear for addiction treatment:

Sympathetic point – Balances sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous

systems and has a strong analgesic effect. 

Shen-men point – Called “Spirit Gate”, has a calming and relaxing effect to

help alleviate anxiety and nervousness that can accompany withdrawal.

Kidney point – Tones and stimulates the source of energy and essence that

is often damaged through chemical abuse. The kidney point can also help

resolve fear and increase the willpower needed to overcome addiction.

Liver point – Promotes repair of the Liver from drug and alcohol abuse and

aids in resolving anger and aggression.

Lung point – Strengthens the immune system and accelerates    

detoxification. Emotionally, it is associated with grief and letting go.

Auricular acupuncture has the effect of increasing the release of inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain, while decreasing the release of excitatory neurotransmitters. This has a powerful effect in helping clients who struggle with anxiety disorders.  Because the effects of acupuncture seem to be cumulative in effect, the typical protocol is to administer acupuncture four times a week for the first month, then decrease the procedure to three times a week for two weeks and then weekly treatments as needed.

          It is exciting to see more and more primary care physicians and psychiatrists embrace acupuncture as a complementary approach to the treatment of addiction.  It is very effective in the initial withdrawal phase, alleviating nausea, pain and anxiety.  It is equally as effective in the post acute withdrawal phase, which in some cases, can last several months.   Auricular acupuncture, when used consistently, effectively alleviates symptoms such as fear, depression and anxiety that often lead a patient back to alcohol or drug use.

          Auricular acupuncture is equally effective in a group or individual setting.  In many cases, it relaxes the patient so that they are able to be more present and focused in the therapy session.  Auricular acupuncture, when used in the residential treatment setting, has the effect of making the client more comfortable, keeping them engaged longer which increases completion rates.  If the client completes the treatment process successfully and follows up with additional support, the prognosis for long-term sobriety increases dramatically.

          Yoga is a strong complementary component in the treatment of addictions. Yoga is used as a viable component of therapy for the treatment of addictive and co-occurring disorders with tremendous success, enabling people to live healthy, productive lives, often without the aid of psychotropic medications. Although at times it is met with resistance, when people let go of resistance and lean into the practice they begin to see its benefits and quickly become more open to it. Part of recovery is learning to get out of our comfort zones and learning to do things differently.

          Yoga quickly builds strength and stamina in the client.  The slow meditative poses teach the patient the principle of developing a strong core with a quiet mind.  This is particularly beneficial for the client who struggles with anger issues or who tends to be reactionary.  Yoga teaches us to breathe into difficult situations and allow them to gently and naturally take care of themselves.

          Yoga practice that is combined with guided meditation is particularly helpful for the person recovering from addictions.  This is because the core component of addiction is shame and guilt.  What we believe in our heart, we will manifest in our lives.  Guided imagery and positive affirmation have immense power to change one’s belief system.  When clients are taught to look for the positive aspects of themselves and their life experiences, this is what they begin to focus on.  What we focus on is what we create.

          Allopathic medicine have aided humanity in immeasurable ways, there is no question about it.  But, we must consider as well that we are all responsible for our emotional, physical and mental well-being and that within each one of us is tremendous power to create peace, power and a sound mind in our lives. My encouragement is for the primary care physician to empower their patients with these time-tested, evidenced based methods of treatment in combination with acute treatment of symptoms.  What a gift you will be offering to those who place their trust and their very lives in your hands.

 

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Consider for a moment how the world would change, if for one day, everyone would genuinely listen to what others were trying to say.  If we would genuinely listen from the heart, without preconceived ideas and judgments, we would begin to see things much more clearly.  If we would listen to our brothers and sisters from the heart, we would be practicing brotherly love as Jesus taught us to do.

Rhonda S. McBride, PhD, LCDC from Inspirations for the Awakening Soul

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Recovery is not a destination. It is a journey that those of us with addictions must take. As I discussed in chapter three, we were not born in a broken, imperfect state. We were born perfect, even if that perfection doesn’t meet someone else’s definition of perfection. When a baby is born, they are in their most honest, pure state. When they feelan emotion, they feel it all over. Imagine a baby laughing. They laugh allover! Imagine a baby who’s angry because she isn’t being fed fast enoughto suit her. Is there any doubt about what she’s feeling? 

It is through life experiences that we develop defenses, complexes, andbeliefs that define us as bad; not good enough; not smart enough; or lessthan others. In order to deal with our perceived imperfections, we developcoping mechanisms to help us along. The lower our self-esteem, the moreself-defeating these coping mechanisms become. The more we disapproveof ourselves, the more we disapprove of others. The more dishonoring weare to ourselves, the more dishonoring we will be to others.

It is through the process of recovery that we become whole again. InChristianity, this can be viewed as the process of salvation; as dying toourselves and being born again through Christ. In Eastern philosophy,this can be understood as the way of enlightenment or awakening. Eitherway we see it, we are brought back to a place of unity with our highestself. This may be called God, Christ-consciousness, a state of bliss, ornirvana.

Belief systems that are driven by fear, shame, and guilt are what leadus into addictions and self-destructive behaviors. This book is abouhealing. It is about drawing on tools from many disciplines in order tolive a life of wholeness and health.  Rhonda S. McBride, PhD, LCDC from Peace, Power and A Sound Mind

 

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Finding Peace in the Holidays 

The holidays.....oh yes, the holidays.  When we think of the holiday season, we often think of the Norman Rockwell pictures of Santa Clause, Coca Cola, Christmas carolers, snow outside and of course snowmen.  I could write a novel on the "real" meaning of each holiday. Of course, this is interesting material for some exciting debate!  But, I won't, we can save that for another day.  Let's talk a minute about how it typically goes.   

We begin with Thanksgiving when we get together with friends and  loved ones and eat a bountiful meal or two or three.  You know, we have to make the rounds because we don't want anyone to get their feelings hurt because we weren't at their Thanksgiving  celebration. Traditionally, there is plenty of turkey, dressing, potatoes and gravy, and of course, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie, not to mention Aunt Sue's green bean casserole and Grandma's pecan pie, complete with whip cream or vanilla ice cream on top.  A day of eating too much followed by some alka seltzer and a football game or two and then whalla!  IT IS NOW THE CHRISTMAS SEASON!!!!  Toss out the turkey bones and deck them halls!  

The Christmas Season  kicks off with Black Friday shopping day!  Black Friday- the day the stores all make a large profit because the Christmas Shopping frenzy has now begun!  People wait in line for hours for the stores to open so we can get the best deals on everything from shoes, purses and toys to electronics and even automobiles, so that we can meet everyone's expectations on our Christmas list.  We know very well that this is a relaxing and pleasant shopping experience!  Stress. 

 There are cookies to bake,  trees to decorate, presents to buy and parties to attend complete with plenty of booze.  You can't very well not attend, because, "how will it look?" "It's my job." And the truth is,  no one really wants to be left out.  More stress.   

Dont' get me wrong, the holidays can be an exciting and joyful time as we get together with friends and family and bring the cycle of the year to a close and prepare for the coming year.  But this time of year can also be painful and lonely for many people.   Rates of relapse for those in recovery increase as people try and maneuver the stress of the season.  Depression and suicides sky-rocket as people try to escape the pressure of expectations.  In this time of financial stress,  young famiies go into financial debt in order to keep up with the demands of making sure the kids have a nice Christmas, then spend most of the next year paying for it. More stress.  

You know, the holidays are somewhat like alcoholism.  We tend to get caught up in the fun and pleasant parts of it and deny the negative aspects until we are smack in the middle of it.  The holidays imply rituals, get togethers and fun. So did our drinking or drug use.  That is what our mind goes back to.

I am certainly not trying to throw a wet blanket on the holiday season, but I am saying it is a very stressful time of year and it is imperative that the recovering person, and their loved ones need to be mindful of this and have the coping skills to deal with the stress of it.  

One fact is true, the holidays will continue to come and go, year after year.  So, how can we manage it and maintain our sobriety and emotional and physical health?  

Here are some ideas

• Slow down and pace yourself.  It is okay to indulge in holiday sweet and treats, but do it in small amounts, and get plenty of rest.  Understand that alcohol is not an option, because even a small amout can start a downward spiral in your life.  Keep your focus on what you do want and not what you don't want.  Your thoughts create your reality. 

• Open your vision and see the bigger perspective. Start with a gratitude list.  Nothing is more intrumental in personal growth and spiritual development than introspection and gratitude.  This is really what the winter season is all about.  Look at nature for your cues.  As nature rests and prepares for the advent of spring it becomes quiet.  Remember that there are many who will go to sleep hungry tonight, or who are alone in this world.  Your tummy is full, and you are here among friends.  Be grateful. 

• Be a leader and not a follower.  It takes courage to look at your life and make the necessary changes.   People who are active in addictions are reactors in their lives, not actors.  There is nothing that takes more courage than to say "Hello, my name is ________ and I am an alcoholic." Don't look down on yourself for making this paradigm shift in your life. In fact, be proud of the work you have done so far.   Keep in mind that when you have the courage to make healthy decisions in your life, you are  modeling that for others. 

• Be creative.  When you are at an event, you don't have to announce your addiction.  But, it does help to have something in your hand. Choose soda, or tonic and lime, something you enjoy that doesn't contain alcohol.  It is about ritual here, and ritual is very powerful.  Most newly recovering people are really concerned that others notice they aren't drinking.  Typically no one really cares. If someone questions you- simply say- I'm choosing not to drink.  I'm driving.  or "Thanks for asking, but I'm good."  Have a plan.  If it get's uncomfortable for you, simply leave. Your obligation is to take care of yourself first.  Everything else will work out if you do.  Create new rituals and ways of celebrating.  

• Live your program each and every day.  Those who have worked the twelve steps know that going through them can enhance the life of anyone who does, alcoholic or not.  They are about emotional and spiritual health from the inside out.  The holiday season is not the time to miss your support group meetings. With all the stress, this is when you need support the most. Whether your "program" is a twelve step model or not, we all have a set of values and principles which govern our lives.  It they are not taught within our family of origin, they are taught by society. When we live our values, our lives have balance and personal power.  Sometimes along the way when our lives get out of balance, we need to go back and re-evaluate our values and principles. 

• Be kind. It is easy to feel resentful when others are drinking and seem to be having a great time.  Take a breath and let it go.  We all have our issues- so change your pespective. Jesus taught us to turn the other cheek.  He wasn't implying that we stand there and let someone beat us up.  When Jesus taught us the principle of turning the other cheek, what he was telling us is change your point of view.  You know, sometimes a kind and gentle word or thoughtful gesture has more impact on another person's life than an expensive gift or trinket.  

• Be patient.  When we are early in recovery our focus is on our program.  We feel better and stronger, and our focus is on the personal strength we are beginning to feel.  Your loved ones may question where you are going and what you are doing.  They may look at you in a questioning way.  This feels irritating when you are trying hard and feeling good.  You may feel angry, but remember, you are only responsible for your part.  When other people question you, they are concerned for you and for themselves.  Sometimes we don't remember what we did during a blackout or while we were drunk or high. We lose sight of how our addiction effected others.  What we see from the inside is not what others see from the outside.  Be patient, time will take care of a lot of this anxiety.  If necessary, seek  counsel to help your family through this time. 

• It's okay to say "no thank you".   Co-dependency- which is meeting the other persons needs to the exclusion of your own-  is common for alcoholics and addicts- and their families.  Sometimes saying "no" is frightening because we fear abandonment or rejection.   Learning to say no when we need to shows maturity and responsibility.   It is about developing and living with appropriate boundaries.  Boundaries say- "this is what I will do, and this is what I won't do- this is where I will go and this is where I won't go- this is what I will accept and this is what I will not."   Boundaries are about self care- not other control.   Remember, no one or nothing has control over your life that you do not give them.   Let your yes be yes and let your no be no, and be OK with it. 

• Relax and stay in the day.  We have a tendency get  caught up in the past- what is was, or what we remember it as-  or the future- the "what if's"- that we miss the beauty of the present moment.  The truth is,  all we have is the present moment.  So let us seize this moment and have a joyful and peaceful holiday season.  

Love and blessings to you and yours for a blesssed and peaceful holiday season,

Rhonda

 

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Auricular Acupuncture

Rhonda McBride, PhD, LCDC

Acupuncture is a Chinese Medicinal art that has been around for centuries and has been used to successfully alleviate physical, mental and emotional ailments of all kinds.  Acupuncture is time tested, and is a proven evidenced based method of treatment.

A report from a Consensus Development Conference on Acupuncture held at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 1997 stated that acupuncture is being "widely" practiced--by thousands of physicians, dentists, acupuncturists, and other practitioners--for relief or prevention of pain and for various other health conditions. According to the 2002 National Health Interview Survey--the largest and most comprehensive survey of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) used by American adults to date--an estimated 8.2 million U.S. adults had used acupuncture in their lifetime, and an estimated 2.1 million U.S. adults had used acupuncture in the previous year.

Auricular acupuncture is a widely used micro-system within Traditional Oriental Medicine.  Microsystems use one area, or aspect of the body - for example, the ears, hands or feet - to treat conditions that are present anywhere in the body.

 

The microsystem of the ear 

 

Auricular Acupuncture can help with alcohol and drug addiction rehabilitation.  When used in the treatment setting during the acute detoxification phase, acupuncture is very effective in alleviating nausea, pain and anxiety commonly associated with withdrawal.  Acupuncture helps the patient become more comfortable and focused in the treatment process and stay engaged in treatment longer.  One of the main reasons people quit treatment, or return to their drug of choice, is due to physical or emotional discomfort.  Acupuncture helps relieve this discomfort.

When a person is going through the initial withdrawal stage from alcohol and drug addition, it is important for them to receive an acupuncture treatment daily until they are able to be abstinent from drugs and alcohol.  Once the person is feeling better and has ceased their use of drugs and alcohol, the frequency of acupuncture treatments can be decreased to once or twice per week for several weeks.  It is recommended that acupuncture treatments continue on a monthly basis for the recovering person. This helps to maintain balance, calm and focus.

When combined with psychological counseling by addiction specialists and participation in recovery support groups, acupuncture can be a very effective complimentary practice in a person’s recovery program.  Not only does acupuncture work well in the acute stage of detoxification,  acupuncture helps manage post acute withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety and depression and helps the recovering person manage cravings. In my practice, I use the NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) protocol for auricular acupuncture extensively with my clients.  The NADA protocol uses five specific ear acupuncture points on each ear for addiction treatment:

Sympathetic point – Balances sympathetic and parasympathetic   

nervous  systems and has a strong analgesic effect.

Shen-men point – Called “Spirit Gate”, has a calming and relaxing effect to

help alleviate anxiety and nervousness that can accompany withdrawal.

Kidney point – Tones and stimulates the source of energy and essence that

is often damaged through chemical abuse. The kidney point can also help

resolve fear and increase the willpower needed to overcome addiction.

Liver point – Stimulating the liver point promotes repair of the Liver from

drug and alcohol abuse and aids in resolving anger and aggression.

Lung point – Strengthens the immune system and accelerates

detoxification. Emotionally, it is associated with grief and letting go.

 

 

In the mid-1970s, Michael Smith, a medical doctor at Lincoln Hospital in the South Bronx area of New York, modified an existing system of auricular acupuncture into a simple technique for the treatment of many common drug addictions.  He did this as an alternative to using methadone for the treatment of opiate addiction. This selection of ear points proved to be extremely effective in the treatment of addictions, and became what is now referred to as the “NADA protocol.

 

The original NADA protocol consisted of electrical stimulation on the lung point of a patient’s ear. It was soon discovered, however, that inserting tiny needles into the same point produced a more prolonged effect than that produced by electric stimulation.  Gradually, adding Shen Men, a well-known ear point that produces a sensation of relaxation, expanded the protocol.  Over the next few years, other points were added based on pain resistance, sensitivity, and other clinical factors. The NADA protocol used today consists of the insertion of small, stainless-steel, disposable acupuncture needles into five points on the outer surface of a person’s ear. The points used in the NADA protocol are Sympathetic, Shen Men, Kidney, Liver, and Lung.

In a typical session, both ears of the patient are stimulated, or needled, at the same time, usually for between 30 minutes and 45 minutes. Sometimes the procedure is done in an individual setting and other times in a group setting. When acupuncture is done in a group setting it helps build support among those being treated and helps break down feelings of isolation and fear.  I have found both methods of treatment very effective.

 

So, how does it work?  The effectiveness of acupuncture is certain, but exactly how it works is a mystery.   Acupuncture is an Oriental Medicine treatment where acupuncture needles are inserted into the body. The needles are inserted intoacupuncture points to adjust the Qi, or energy, of our body. These acupuncture points exist along energy channels called acupuncture meridians, which connect thesurface of our body with our internal organs. By altering the flow of Qi, acupuncturecan help people naturally detoxify from addiction and substance abuse.

People treated with auricular acupuncture often report an improved sense of well-being.  Clients often state that they feel “energized,” “lighter” and “more relaxed” after undergoing a session.  In most cases, they request more follow-up sessions following the initial treatment because they feel so relaxed and peaceful.  In addition, they report that the effects last for several hours and even several days in some instances.

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Daily Inspirations

May 7, 2011

Positive Change

Sometimes change in our lives is necessary to help us grow, although it may not always be easy.  When change occurs I trust in Divine Spirit to direct may path and my vision.

I give thanks for the past and all the joy, gifts and lessons it has provided. I reflect on the people I have met and shared experiences with, embracing the role each one has had in the curriculum of my life.

I pause in the present moment and listen to the voice of God, gently, but persistently teaching me how to be a better person.  In the quiet of my heart the message comes through that every situation requires integrity and love~ always.

I go forward with confidence and enthusiasm, knowing that life is an adventure! I embrace the future, knowing that my needs always have and always will be met. I trust in Divine Providence for prosperity not only in the form of money and physical needs, but in experiences as well.

When Spirit speaks, allow the positive changes that are necessary for the full experience of life!

Love and Blessings,

Rhonda

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Daily Inspirations

April 21, 2011

Breathe!

 

Deep conscious breathing is the corner stone of health! It lowers our blood pressure, slows down our heart rate, relives stress, and infuses us with life-giving energy.

Approximately 65 percent of our body is oxygen. It fuels our brain, refreshes our blood cells and supplies us with energy. This oxygen is the very breath of Spirit--breathed into us, providing life.

Breathing is inherent, yet it also works in tandem with the conscious mind. With every breath, we are renewed and rejuvenated. With every breath, we have the opportunity to be aware of the spirit of God.

As I inhale, I breathe in goodness, life and peace. My entire being vibrates with the power and presence of the Divine within me. With each exhale, I release the toxins of worry, fear and doubt, allowing energy and truth to fill the space.

Deep breathing fills us with Peace, Power and A Sound Mind!

Love and Blessings,

Rhonda

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Daily Inspirations

April 20, 2011

Free

Why does one driver smile and relax in traffic, while another is tense and irritable? It is a matter of choice. Freedom of choice is an expression of our spiritual freedom, and it affects our attitudes and experiences.

Sometimes it becomes our habit to look for what is wrong in the world, and when we look for what is wrong and what is bad, we find it.  When we look for what is good and what is right, we find that too.

When we get caught up in looking at the negative in ourselves and in other people, we become irritable, discontent and even physically and emotionally ill.  We all want others to see the best in us, and look beyond our flaws.  Should we not do the same for our fellow travelers?

Today I have a simple choice: I can be held captive by irritation and restrictive ways of thinking and being, or I can practice genuine spiritual freedom by expressing love in all I think, say and do.

I choose thoughts and words that are free of disapproval or the need to be right. I choose activities that nurture my body and mind, expressing the freedom of my soul. I choose to treat others in ways that reflect an attitude and spirit of freedom and love.

Love and Blessings,

Rhonda 

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Daily Inspirations

 

April 19, 2011

 

Get in The Flow!   

Flow.. a lovely word that immediately conjures up a vision of a free, unrestricted entity...like water. Water finds its own level naturally, so flow means the natural awareness of where I come to rest in the scheme of this universe, my natural fit so to speak. As the world around me changes, I shift without resistance to my next natural fit. 

When I let go of resistance and just let life happen the way it is supposed to, I get into the flow of the energy of the Universe.  When I am in the flow, my creative power is limitless.   I am not constricted by resistant thoughts that come from fear, doubt or the worry of non-acceptance and I am free to be me.

Being in the flow is when I stop forcing or trying to make something happen. Things naturally start falling in to place and often things that I could not even imagine begin to unfold. When I stop trying to control the uncontrollable, change the past or define the path that my loved ones choose, I am free to love, accept and forgive.

Addiction is resistance.  It is a compulsive desire to change or alter the way we feel.  Being stuck in an addiction to drugs, alcohol, self-pity, anger, or the need to control is like swimming upstream against the current.  It makes you tired!  When we can observe our emotions without judging them or without trying to alter them, they lose power over us, and we become unstuck.  We get into the flow of life!

When we let go of our resistance, life naturally just works out the way it is supposed to.  What we once perceived as difficult situations, now become part of the river of life.

 

Get into the flow!

 

Love and Blessings,

 

Rhonda

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Daily Inspirations

April 13, 2011

Choose Wisely

 

Throughout each day, I have the opportunity to make many choices. From the friends I choose to the thoughts I think--everything is a choice, a manifestation of the unlimited possibilities before me.

How I influence people and situations, or how I am influence by them, is determined by the choices I make.  When something doesn’t go the way I expect it to, I can choose how I view it and how I respond to it.  I can choose to see each situation as a personal affront or as an opportunity for person growth.

The practice of meditation teaches the lesson of curious observation with non-judgment.  This is a powerful tool in allowing the process of life to unfold the gifts it holds for us. This allows me to make choices that are not charged with emotion.

As I prepare for the day, I give thanks for guidance and inspiration in making choices. I call on the inner resources at the core of my being to respond to any situation.

Although in any given moment it might appear that my choices are limited, I know this is an illusion created by my narrow human view. With spiritual eyes, I see infinite possibilities, and I make each choice with confidence and peace.

Choose wisely and create a peaceful day!

Love and Blessings,

Rhonda

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Daily Inspirations

April 12, 2011

Day Dreaming

My work, and indeed everything that I do, is an expression of who I am, as I use my mind, physical capabilities and actions to create something of value in the world. It doesn’t really matter what my particular “job” is, it matters more what I bring to it.  If I am content, peaceful and joyful within myself, I will bring this attitude to whatever it is that I do.

I realize that I do my best work when I am relaxed and refreshed.

I take time for myself today to daydream the possibilities for good. Closing my eyes and opening my imagination, I feel great hope inside. As I dream of my life's potential, I become aware that I have been given many talents to use, many gifts from Spirit. I resolve to use these gifts to see my dreams come true.

When I return to work, after giving myself time to relax and dream, I feel nurtured and revitalized.  I am able to see beyond any limitations I may have imposed upon myself.

Take time to dream today, and see the endless possibilities!

Love and Blessings,

Rhonda

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Daily Inspirations

April 11, 2011

Prosperity

We live in an abundant universe. This means that there is plenty of everything we need if we are good stewards of our planet and our resources.

When we give freely, not only of our financial resources, but also of our time, energy and love, we prosper.  When we share from our willingness and eagerness to bless others, we are blessed. This is the great law of karma or sowing and reaping.

Whether we recycle gently used household items, spend time tutoring a child, or volunteer to assist someone in need, we are giving from the heart. Giving can come in the form of a kind word of encouragement, a smile or even positive thoughts about others. We receive the blessings of joy, satisfaction and gratitude as soon as we give to others.

As we give and receive from the heart, we realize that material possessions do not define prosperity. Prosperity is a mind-set,  a consciousness or deep knowing that everything we need is already supplied.

Giving of our heart opens the way for blessings to circulate.  Let us give one to another.

Love and Blessings,

Rhonda

 

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Daily Inspirations

April 8, 2011

Wholeness

                                        

Wholeness is the true state of our being.  Sometimes it is easy to get so focused on the difficulties in our lives that we do not see or believe beyond that.  Whenever we think about letting go of the idea of illness, poverty or brokenness we begin to say “yeah, but…” This is when we must redirect our thinking.

Life is meant to be lived abundantly!

Whenever I feel out of alignment with this truth, I stop to calm my thoughts, rest my body and focus on the healing power of Spirit that moves through me.

Recognizing that I am one with Spirit in mind and body, I embrace this loving life force flowing through me as the source of my wellbeing. I visualize myself as vital, healthy, well and whole.

Guided by Spirit, I make wise choices. Nutritious food, energizing exercise and positive thoughts are staples of my everyday life. I am mindful of balancing work and play, activity and rest. I set aside time for prayer and quiet contemplation. I live well. I am well.

 

Love and Blessings,

Rhonda

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Daily Inspirations

April 6, 2011

World Peace

We are all connected in this great web of life, even if we do not recognize it.  The great thinkers and writers of antiquity understood this. The idea of interdependence is found in manuscripts and teachings handed down through the centuries.

Mother Teresa was such a person. She believed deeply in the love and respect of all persons.  There are two phrases that she said that have had a great impact on my life and on my belief system.  “There are many in the world dying for a piece of bread, but there are many more dying for a little love.” and “love until it hurts.”  Mother Teresa was not afraid to walk down war torn streets or to hold the hand of a dying homeless person.    My very favorite quote from Mother Teresa was “If you invite me to an anti-war rally, I will not come.  Invite me to a peace rally, and I will be there.”  She did not waste her time on causes relating to division.  She worked tirelessly for world peace.

Many of us believe this concept on a logical level, but on an emotional and spiritual level we doubt it.  We fall into the illusion of division.  The illusion of division is created by our ego, and our ego is very often driven by fear, greed and a lack of consciousness.

Today, look around at how interconnected we all are.  Appreciate the differences that make up this beautiful world. Pay attention when you feel fear or judgment.  Pray for discernment of how you can bring peace to any situation that brings division.

Love until it hurts.

Love and Blessings,

Rhonda

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Daily Inspirations

 

April 5, 2011

 

Wisdom 

 

Wisdom is recognizing and accepting what we can and cannot change, and allowing  our suffering to teach us about ourselves and about life.

We can know all the facts and information in the world, but if we don’t know how to apply the information in a positive and effective way, we do not have wisdom.  Life is filled with mysteries and we don’t always have the answers to certain questions.  Wisdom allows us to see that there are things outside of our control, and to be at peace with that.

Wisdom gives us the courage to do what is difficult and to make the changes necessary for healing to occur.  Wisdom is what helps us transform the way we think, feel and behave.  Sometimes wisdom is letting go of trying to control certain situations in our lives and in the lives of others and allow the natural consequences, or karma, to work.

It is inspiring to hear about people who have triumphed over difficulties or recovered from addictions or other destructive habits.  Wise people who no longer define themselves by their past or re-tell the story of their suffering and misery.  Instead, they tell the story of acceptance of life on life’s terms, love of others and new possibilities. 

Love and Blessings,

Rhonda

 

 

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Daily Inspirations

April 4, 2011

 

Live Your Truth!

So what is our truth?  Our truth is our authenticity.   We were born in a state of love and acceptance of others and ourselves. We were born wise.  As babies we did not understand fear, prejudice, poor self- esteem or resentments. These manifestations are learned behaviors that come from dealing with life experiences and from unconscious people.

The truth is, life will sometimes hand you difficult situations.  It is your choice to grow in wisdom and love when faced with challenges, or to become defined by them and live your life in victim stance.

Notice your suffering and explore it so that you can learn from it.  You can choose to stop being absorbed by your man-made, negative emotions and let go of your story as a victim and all sorts of other problems. Claim your birthright as a wise and courageous person who makes good decisions, who doesn’t run from pain but instead walks through it in order to learn the hidden lessons that adversity offers.  Turn your life into the soil that grows beautiful flowers in life.  Put away your fear and allow your creativity to shine.

Several years ago Leann Womack came our with a song called “I hope you dance.” This song resonated with my soul.  When my son married his wife five years ago, it was this song that I danced with him at his wedding as he created his new life as a man and a husband. It was my desire for him to life his truth, and dance with life.

When we get caught up in ego and addictions, in actuality we are running from our truth.  Our ego will create defensive and controlling behavior and the illusion of division.  Our addictions to anger, resentment and substances are an attempt to keep us from feeling vulnerable, which keeps us from experiencing intimacy with others.

Let go of the fear that what you say doesn’t matter, because it does! Trust in your creative force.  If you want to paint, paint!  If you want to sing, sing!  Living your truth will feed your soul.  Your truth is based on love, even if you have forgotten.

Love and Blessings,

Rhonda

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Daily Inspirations

April 1, 2011

Now is the Time!

 

Much of what we believe is what we create in our lives.  If I believe in the poverty and destruction of the planet, I will make my decisions according to my belief, therefore manifesting that reality. Instead I choose to see the beauty and constant regeneration that is occurring around me.  I can’t control other people or situations, but I can control how I relate to them.

At this point in time I am ready to apply my talents and experience life in new ways. I am blossoming, becoming the person I am meant to be. This is my time to stretch, grow and create the life I want. Regardless of my age or circumstances, divine power and potential are within me. I boldly move forward to accomplish lifelong aspirations.

Perhaps I have dreamt of writing a book, traveling the world, creating a charitable foundation, mastering a new sport or playing a musical instrument. My destiny is mine to choose and mine to create. Now is the time to take action. With this mindset, my work becomes enjoyable and fulfilling.

Like a flower stretching to the sun I reach out and open myself to God's good. I choose health, strength and emotional wellbeing. I trust in my intuition as Divine Inspiration.

 

How do I know that my intuition in divinely inspired?  I check my motive.  If my motive is for the good of others and myself, it is Divinely inspired!

 

Love and Blessing,

Rhonda

 

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Step Six

Honesty is the primary component of recovery.  We must be thoroughly honest with ourselves and with others before real change can be made.  Step six of Alcoholics Anonymous says “Were entirely ready to have God remove all of these defects of character.” When I first learned the sixth step, I thought “Oh, of course, this one is easy, who would want to hold on to their character defects?”  As I grew in my recovery process, I began to realize this step was crucial, and not as easy as I thought.

An interesting component of addiction is denial.  Denial is that part of us that really does not see that we are being dishonest.  We are capable of making absurd behavior make sense.  Learning what does not serve us well takes time and a restructuring of our belief system.  Some of our  “character defects” are so ingrained that we believe them to be a necessary part of us.  Most of our “defects” of character are defense mechanisms that we learned in childhood.  Letting go of our need to change or control others is a difficult behavior to change when, as children, we had very little, or no control over a chaotic environment.  Perhaps we developed behaviors to make order of our life, or make difficult situations tolerable.  Maybe anger gave us the motivation to change or leave a hurtful or disrespectful relationship.  

Shame is the belief that we are “broken”, or that something is wrong with us as human beings.  I have found shame to be the core component of addiction.  When I can help a client move from the idea that they are “sick”, or “defected of character”, to an understanding that certain beliefs and behavior that once worked for them, are now hurting themselves and others, they become more open to change.

When we have compassion for the wounded child within instead of condemnation or judgment, change can begin to happen and step six takes on a deeper meaning.  From this perspective, the God of our understanding becomes a loving co-creator of our lives.  A Divine Source that helps us to see our goodness and our character assets.  When we see ourselves as God sees us, a perfect creation made in the likeness, image and essence of him or herself, what does not serve us well, will naturally fall away.

Step six is a way of life and must be attended to daily.  As we learn to understand ourselves better, from the perspective of our character assets, we will begin to focus on a life of wellness, health and loving kindness.  When these character traits are what we focus on, they will manifest themselves in our lives.  When we fall into what we once viewed as our “character defects”, we will feel uncomfortable and out of character.

Addiction is a violent disease that destroys the afflicted person and hurts those who love them.  Addiction makes us believe that we are defected human beings that deserve the pain and suffering that the disease brings into our lives.

As we allow the God of our understanding to hold up a mirror in front of us daily, reflecting who we genuinely are, defensive and hurtful behaviors that no longer serve us, will fall away.  Step six, in its truest form, teaches us that the spirit of God is not fear, but peace, power and a sound mind.

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Daily Inspirations

 

March 31, 2011

 

Loving The Wounded Child Within

 

 

When we have compassion for the wounded child within instead of condemnation or judgment, change can begin to happen.  From this perspective, the God of our understanding becomes a loving co-creator of our lives.  A Divine Source that helps us to see our goodness and our character assets.  When we see ourselves as God sees us, a perfect creation made in the likeness, image and essence of him or herself, what does not serve us well, will naturally fall away.

As we learn to understand ourselves better, from the perspective of our character assets, we will begin to focus on a life of wellness, health and loving kindness.  When these character traits are what we focus on, they will manifest themselves in our lives.  When we fall into what we once viewed as our “character defects”, we will feel uncomfortable and out of character.

Addiction is a violent disease that destroys the afflicted person and hurts those who love them.  Addiction makes us believe that we are defected human beings that deserve the pain and suffering that the disease brings into our lives.  Addictions show up in many ways, including anger, resentments and self-condemnation.

As we allow the God of our understanding to hold up a mirror in front of us daily, reflecting who we genuinely are, defensive and hurtful behaviors that no longer serve us, will fall away.

Love and Blessings,

Rhonda

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