A check list is just that, a way to maintain structure and balance in an area you wish to improve. These are a list of simple dynamics that can begin to sooth aspects of any relationship, especially the most important one of all- the relationship with self.

• Completely  free yourself from negative people. (This can eliminate the intrusion and not influence or encourage poor behavior patterns.)

• Let go of those people who have already left or who have gone from your life. (Holding on to the past or clinging to a missed opportunity can dampen aspects of a bright future.)

• Give each individual a fair chance. (Do not be quick to judge or assume something based on misconceptions. This can sometimes put you in a box that doesn't allow you to explore all your options,) * The disclaimer- Of course, unless you know this person to already be dangerous than most definitely stay away and make decisions from a safe space!

• Show random acts of kindness. (Why not, what have you got to lose? You might even be surprised how good it feels to be pure and have an open-heart. Connections grow through positive unexpected efforts.)

• Always put out there what you wish to receive back. (You'll often find people follow suit.)

• Let go of petty disagreements. (They can start an argument over issues that really didn't concern you to begin with.)

• Keep in touch with those in your life who matter and tend to stay more positive. (We're not looking for perfection here, just those who don't influence negativity, or get you riled up.)

• Seek or maintain relationships that tend to inspire you. (Growth comes when those around us exude positive reflections.)

• Try to allow others to make their own decisions. (Nobody wishes to be controlled by you. There are many paths and sometimes lessons are learned through trial and error.)

• Be true to your word. (Honesty is the most direct path to freedom.)

• Keep promises. (It maintains a level of integrity and builds trust.)

• Be an active listener. (Relationships get complicated when your thoughts are racing ahead, trying to think of an immediate response. These are the moments when you lose the opportunity to really understand an idea, reason, or explanation someone might be giving.)

• Practice loyalty. (Yes, it exists and it starts with you. All relationships are clearly different and define loyalty in unique ways. Align with the pre-determined concept of loyalty or define a new one.)

• Boundaries are critical. (Take time to accurately discern your personal boundaries and when the line is drawn. This offers clarity and harmony in any relationship.)

• Be a source of encouragement. (This is motivating and captures enthusiasm. It also lets others feel your support and promotes confidence.)

• Stay away from idle gossip. (It's hurtful and demonstrates a lack of character. Remember, next time it could be you someone's gossiping about next.)

• Allow imperfection. (Don't be so fast to be critical or judgmental. We're all perfect in our own way. Often times those "quirks" were originally what drew you to the other individual from the start.

• Forgiveness. (Be a willing participant to forgive people's mistakes. There's always room for growth.) * The disclaimer- always remove yourself from dangerous situations. Later, is when you can rise to forgiveness after some healing time and space has occurred. 

• Most important, love yourself - no matter what happens! (Take time for yourself every single day. You deserve to be here. Enjoy aspects of life that offer you creativity, peace, and a sense of freedom.

Affirmation: I am healing, peaceful, abundant, and radiant. I am a loving person who deserves the very best every single day.

Namaste,

~ Rev. Coyote Moon Ph.D.

coyotecounsel.com

If you knew a strangers personal story would you treat them differently? Often times we're quick to judge or be impatient because we're in a rush, self-involved, or even dismissive that others' might have their own story going on.

I can't count how many times clients have hinted at the fact that the world feels cruel, or unforgiving. My response is always the same, stating that we need to be cognizant of the fact that we're all in this together. What that literally means is that we're all on earth in this lifetime working towards goals, trying to attain growth in ways that we deem fit. But the truth is that we need to consider that the slightest gesture can create a huge impact in people's lives. 

We've all probably heard of the term, "Pay it forward." This speaks volumes in regard to the impact, or energetic emanations we create. Let's say in your hurried morning heading to work you pause for a brief second to let a car into your lane. What about holding a door open for another, or simply offering a gracious smile, or knowing nod to honor the existence of another sojourner seemingly travelling on a somewhat parallel course as you?

I feel strongly and have repeatedly been justified in my belief system that these gestures create a momentary shift or elated feeling for individuals who choose to acknowledge gratitude and therefore go on to reciprocate the state of grace. In some ways, it's minimal and in others, far more of an impact.

In my work doing service to those in need, frankly, it feels like an honor. For instance, if I'm speaking with a woman who is riddled with anger and I'm able to assist by holding a space for the process to draw upon truth and forgiveness this holds tremendous possibilities. Let's say she heads home to her family and a child is acting up. Now that she's decided to trust in her own personal power and myself, her child will not have to face misguided anger. That child now can learn by moms example that there's a better way to flow. 

In life, it's a true celebration to look for hidden truth and deeper meaning in the signs presented throughout each day. It's about paying attention, being mindful, and recognizing that loving yourself provides the offering of unconditional love to be given outward. Maintaining this balance creates a positive cycle that has the natural response through cause and effect.

We might respond by stating, "Well, that's great. If only I had the time, or in a perfect world." The quote from Ralph Emerson Waldo comes to mind, "~The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be." This speaks volumes because it implies choice. Through difficult times and in joy we always have choices. Yes, it's true. If you were harmed in some terrible way by another, my response would still be the same. Not because I'm uncaring, far from it. It's because even if someone invaded our rights, body, thoughts etc., we can still choose what we do with it thereafter. We can choose the high road, we can choose a form of healing, or we can, (dependent  on the circumstance), with time, choose to be an inspiration through it all.

'Interestingly, Socrates is famous for arguing that we must know Thyself to be wise, that the unexamined life is not worth living." It is a cruel irony that Socrates was condemned to death for corrupting youth. (for educating them to Philosophy and arguing that people are ignorant of the Truth.)

'Plato who wrote, 'The Apology,' was a beautiful writer (and one of the greatest Philosophers). His account of Socrates on Trial provides quite an eloquent and tragic description of the Last Days of Socrates, which is still very relevant to our post-modern democratic society. Most significantly, it demonstrates the 'stubborn' that society displays towards those who choose to question the customs and beliefs of their time (as any good philosopher must).  This attitude is still very much alive today.' (~Aristotle, Metaphysics, 340 BC)

This history is raised for what seems the obvious point about being true, and daring to not subscribe to limited beliefs. We all need to be questioning aspects of life that don't appear to be apparent, regardless of some who choose another path. The question then becomes, how do we discern truth? First, it lives in our hearts. It's usually the simpler path, regardless of what our egos might argue. I've always claimed that I choose to lead a simple life. This doesn't mean that I don't process, or evaluate options. It doesn't mean I'm not intelligent, or I'm lazy. It simply indicates that my decision are based on serving the highest good. When life get's complicated, it's usually an indicator we've strayed from our highest purpose. By complicated, what's meant is more about entanglements, mistrust, second guessing, and co-mingling with those we don't feel aligned, share beliefs or identify to a sense of chaos. 

Asking the reader, 'Would you treat them differently," beckons the deeper question, "How do you wish to be treated?" This suggests that karma plays a significant role in terms of energetically sending forth a vibration that respects self; therefore, holds others in the same light. To suggest that we're all perfect might seem like a leap, yet might it be easier to ascertain the concept that where we' are at is exactly where we need to be. We can be joyful, warm and kind and this is perfect. We can also be hurt, wounded, sad, angry, or even appear horrid, yet this is perfection in the bigger picture when we continue to remind ourselves that we have free will and make choices.

Conceptually it's necessary to go big picture to gain a higher perspective. Also, it's important to remember the lessons learned and the ability to find our voice and a path toward recovery is essential to living our higher purpose. We learn through pain and joy. What we forget is that when we are feeling level, those moments are often the right time to pause and do some self-discovery and grow while we're not in duress. If not, a source of stress or angst will hopefully alert you that you deserve something better and can re-claim balance and attain peace once more, ~Namaste, Coyote

Rev. Coyote Moon Ph.D.

coyotecounsel.com

Brief Synopsis: The World Health Organization estimates 65 - 80 percent of the population use holistic naturopathic medicine as a primary form of health care.

Detail: The Baby boomers-those born 1946 through 1964-are the largest population to require health care than ever before.

Medical practitioners and pharmaceutical companies are focusing on what pills, potions or surgeries the baby boomers-turned seniors will be likely to use in the next 30 - 40 years. Ironically, the majority of people tend to be concerned about their health after something major has occurred.  The truth is if we consistently take good care of our health the aging process has little impact.

Baby boomers are voicing their concerns about better health, more than prior generations. However, many do not know where to find information and options, other than Traditional Western Medicine (TWM).

Few people research the plethora of side effects for prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs-not to mention that prescription and OTC drugs are formulated to take over and hijack your body's biochemistry. Prescription and OTC drugs force blood pressure to be lower/higher or force the liver to stop manufacturing healthy cholesterol. In fact, prescription or OTC drugs interfere with normal human metabolism, and that is one reason why prescription drugs are killing people. Yet, conventional medical doctors rely on propaganda about the unknown side effects of holistic health care to convince people that only prescription or OTC drugs are safe. It is NOT that they are terrified about the side effects of holistic health care-they are terrified of people being well and they won't have their business of prescribing life-long pills and potions. Western Medicine is profit driven.

If everyone knew they could prevent any disease with plant extracts, medicinal herbs, natural vitamins, minerals, and supplements, as well as having peace of mind-the pharmaceutical and medical industry would collapse overnight.

Holistic, Metaphysical, Energy or Mind, Body, Spirit healing has existed since the beginning of time amid religious beliefs and practices, along with the mystery, superstition, fear, and misunderstanding. Holistic Healing is now becoming recognized regardless of what anyone chooses to believe or think.

• According to CNN one-half of all medical schools now offer courses in holistic health care.

• Almost one-third of American medical schools-among them Harvard, Yale, John's Hopkins, and Georgetown Universities-now offer coursework in holistic methods.

• There are five homeopathic hospitals in Great British National Service.

• One out of three drugs prescribed in Germany is an herb.

• The World Health Organization estimates that between 65 to 80 percent of the world's population (about 3 billion people) rely on holistic medicine as their primary form of health care.

• In 1993, American consumers spent almost $1.5 billion dollars on herbal remedies-ten times more than was spent on over-the-counter sleeping pills from grocery stores and drug stores.

• Approximately $22 million of U.S. government money has already been spent on alternative medical research since 1992 at the National Institutes of Health and Public Health Services.

• The American Medical Association (AMA), in Resolution #514, "is encouraging its members to become better in-formed regarding holistic medicine and to participate in appropriate studies of it.

• Mutual of Omaha says it saves about $6.50 in covering non-standard (holistic) treatments.

• One out of every ten Americans is under the care of a chiropractor.

• In 1991, Americans made more visits to unconventional health care providers (425 million) than to conventional doctors (388 million).

• One out of three Americans were using unconventional medicine in 1991.

• Americans spent almost $13.7 billion on unconventional health care in 1991.

• 75 percent of that $13.7 billion (above) was out of pocket.

• 12 percent of Fortune 500 companies offer alternative medicine as part of their health care compensation packages. That percentage was expected to increase to 18 percent by the end of 1996.

• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) A nationwide government survey of more than 31,000 adults on their use of complimentary and alternative medicine (CAM) showed that 36 percent of U.S. adults use some form of CAM.

• The World Health Organization, estimates that between 65 to 80 percent of the world's population (about 3 billion people) rely on naturopathic or homeopathic medicine as their primary form of health care.

• Worldwide, only 10 to 30 percent of people use traditional medicine, 70 to 90 percent use naturopathic and homeopathic health care.

• 74 percent of the American population desires a natural approach to health care.

• Of the one out of three Americans who say they have used natural techniques, 84 percent said they would use it again.

• Traditional Chinese Medicine has been chosen by the World Health Organization for worldwide propagation to meet the health care needs of the twenty-first century.

• The U.S. government sponsors the use of acupuncture in drug rehabilitation programs.

• "In a [Mayo Clinic] study of 50 patients, six acupuncture treatments given over two to three weeks significantly improved their symptoms of pain and fatigue." Time, 2005

• "Americans make more visits to holistic health care providers (some 600 million a year) than to M.D.s and spend more money out-of-pocket to do so about $30 billion a year by recent estimates." Newsweek, 12/2002

• "A recent study performed by the American Massage Therapy Association revealed that 28 percent of people received a massage from a massage therapist in the past five years, up from 17 percent in 1997. Eighteen percent said they had a massage in the past 12 months. That's 10 percent higher than was reported in 1997." American Massage Therapy Association, 8/2002.

Holistic health care practices include:

• Acupuncture

• Aromatherapy/flower essences

• Ayurvedic medicine

• Bio-feedback

• Chelation therapy

• Chiropractic

• Essential Oils

• Guided imagery

• Herbology/Herbal remedies

• Holistic Counseling

• Homeopathy

• Hydrotherapy

• Hypnosis/self-hypnosis

• Iridology

• Massage

• Meditation/visualization

• Mind, Body, Spirit healing (using the unconscious mind)

• Movement and exercise therapy

• Naturopathy

• Nutrition therapy

• Osteopathy

• Reiki/energy medicine

• Relaxation response

• Reflexology

• Therapeutic touch

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Every community has resources:

• Natural food stores, natural vitamin and supplement stores: Hi Health, Vitamin Shoppe, Whole Foods, Wild Oats Market, Trader Joe's, AJ's Fine Foods, The Internet directories.

• Holistic Health Care provider directory - New Holistic Health Care Products Directory. http://www.holisticseek.com/

• Holistic Junction: Business Directory - Holistic Junction, your pathway to Holistic Practitioners, Massage Therapy http://www.holisticjunction.com

• Holistic Healthcare online: A search directory for reputable practitioners by state, country, city, http://www.holistichealthcare.com

• Florida Health & Fitness Directory ... Holistic Health Care: Natural Healing and Preventative Medicine Acupuncture, Chinese Herbs, Homeopathy, Shiatsu, ... http://www.floridasmart.com/business/health/index.htm

• Holistic health links and new age links from Share Guide. ... Healthlinks.net - Healthcare portal and directory with over 70200 unique links. ... http://www.shareguide.com/links.html

• Metaphysical Healing-Mind, Body, Spirit, www.coyotecounseling.com Counseling for Individuals and Couples

• Last, but not least do not allow traditional medical doctors, pharmacists or your family and best friends to intimidate you into believing your life is in jeopardy if you use holistic health care remedies or practitioners.

The Journal of the American Medical Association Vol. 284 July 26, 2000, published an article documenting the tragedy of Traditional Western Medicine (TWM) paradigm. The author, Dr. Barbara Starfield of Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health describes how the U.S. health care system may contribute to poor health. Doctors, she stated, are the third leading cause of death in the U.S., causing 250,000 deaths every year.

This information is a follow-up to the Institute of Medicine report December, 1999, but the data was hard to reference as it was not in peer-reviewed journal. Now it is published in JAMA which is the most widely circulated medical periodical in the world.

DEATHS PER YEAR:

• 12,000 - unnecessary surgery

• 7,000 - medication errors in hospitals

• 20,000 - other errors in hospitals

• 80,000 - infections in hospitals

• 106,000 - non-error, negative effects of drugs

250,000 deaths per year from iatrogenic--death induced in a patient by a physician's activity, manner, or therapy, especially of a complication of treatment causes--is outrageous!! Yet, the majority of people continue to trust the medical profession to 'cure' them, in spite of all the evidence to the contrary.

Of 13 countries in a recent comparison, the United States ranks an average of 12th (second from the bottom) for 16 available health indicators.

The ranking of the U.S. on several indicators was:

• 13th (last) for low-birth-weight percentages

• 13th for neonatal mortality and infant mortality overall 14

• 11th for post neonatal mortality

• 13th for years of potential life lost (excluding external causes)

• 11th for life expectancy at 1 year for females, 12th for males

• 10th for life expectancy at 15 years for females, 12th for males

• 10th for life expectancy at 40 years for females, 9th for males

• 7th for life expectancy at 65 years for females, 7th for males

• 3rd for life expectancy at 80 years for females, 3rd for males

• 10th for age-adjusted mortality

• The poor performance of the U.S. medical profession was recently confirmed by a World Health Organization study, which used different data and ranked the United States as 15th among 25 industrialized countries.

Reference: Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD, Life Coach, Hypnotherapist, Author, "101 Great Ways To Improve Your Life

Posted by: Rev. Coyote Moon Ph.D.

coyotemooncounseling.com