Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Friday, April 30, 2010
The Buddha in you

I am blessed to be part of a monthly spiritual book discussion group. The facilitators are dear friends and all the participants are on similar "places" on the "path." We are currently reading Sylvia Boorstein's "Pay Attention for Goodness' Sake." For those of you unfamilar with the author, she is Buddhist teacher who has a funny and clear way of explaining Buddhism. Her writing is crisp and easy to follow, and she offers personal stories and practical applications of Buddhist teachings. Truthfully, her book inspires me to be a better person.
The chapter we discussed this month was on "Wisdom." Wisdom akin to being observant, discerning, and "awake." In this way, when you observe life from the "awake" point of view, you release yourself from "suffering." According to Boorestein, the Buddha never described himself as a celestial-being nor a man, when asked how he described himself he would simply say "I am awake." Buddha went on to teach that you should be alert enough to know when you wake up whether you have woken up inhaling or exhaling.
This kind of "paying attention," is at the heart of Mindfulness, which is a core Buddhist practice. Mindfulness is paying attention to the the unfolding present moment, and allowing it to be just as it is. Cultivating mindfulness takes time, sometimes a lifetime, but is a worthwhile practice and a way out of the "suffering" loop of the mind.
If you would like to immerse yourself in a few hours of Mindfulness Practice, then join me for a morning mini-Mindfulness retreat. On Saturday May 15th, 2010, 8:45am-12:30pm, I will lead you in sitting meditation, mindful walking and eating, silent periods, open discussion, and journaling. This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen your meditation and spiritual practice through the simple art of Mindfulness.
To register contact me at 609-750-7432.
The cost is $45.00, early bird rate is $38.00 if paid by 5/7.
Center for Relaxation & Healing is located in Plainsboro, NJ.
Contact me for directions, or visit http://www.relaxationandhealing.com/
Labels:
Buddhism,
Buddhist practices,
meditation,
mindfulness
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Where hands go - energy flows
The field of energy healing is no longer new or confined to "new agey" environments. Reiki, one of the most popular forms of energy healing, can be found in hospitals, hospices, adult education classes, wellness conferences and more. When I first "felt" energy firsthand, it was not an eye-popping "wow" experience - but it was a subtle "aaaah" feeling. In Reiki classes, students feel energy for themselves. I liken Reiki to the experience of plugging in to a light source. You feel the gentle currents of electricity moving through you. When practitioner and receiver set their "intention" for the energy to flow, then the energy's journey begins, it moves, it expands, it seeks and finds all the areas within that recipients energy field that are most in need of balancing. To experience the energy healing method called Reiki - join me for Reiki I. Anyone with a genuine desire can become certified in Reiki. You need no special abilities or background, just an open mind and a receptive intention.
Next Reiki Level I
Sunday April 11, 2010
10:00am-6:00pm $165.00
Reiki Level II
Sunday April 25, 2010
10:00am-6:00pm $185.00
Register: 609-750-7432
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Mad for Mantras

Have you experienced Kirtan yet? I first experienced Kirtan (devotional singing in Sanskrit) when someone played a Krishna Das CD when I was in Grad school. To put it plainly, when I heard it, I went "nuts." The urge to dance moved me, and the sounds evoked a deep internal response. Well, that was my reaction, everyone responds differently, and Kirtan may be an acquired taste. If you would like to experience Kirtan with a wonderful folksy and rock-n-roll flair, then join us as Sharon Silverstein and the Peace Project return on Saturday February 6th at 7:30pm. I am certainly biased, as I have enjoyed Sharon's music for many years. The unique twist that she brings to old and new arrangements of Kirtan must be experienced. The room fills with a humming electricty that leads us to a natural "high" better than any drug. Well, this is one Kirtan-junkie who feels the power of chanting mantras. Come try it out for yourself, you might just be hooked.
Ecstatic Chant: An Evening of Kirtan
with Sharon Silverstein & the Peace Project
Saturday February 6, 2010 7:30-9:00pm $10.00
Kirtan is a call and response singing of simple mantras. The distinctive sound composition of Kirtan can free us from the daily chatter of the mind. The instruments and melody create a vibration meditation that can carry us effortlessly to stillness. No musical experience is needed. Join us for an evening of ecstatic chanting with Sharon Silverstein on Vocals, Guitar & Harmonium; Joni Knapp on Tabla; Darlene Popkey on Flute & Harmonium & Marie Soffel on Djembe & Ubang. You won't want to miss this soulful and inspiring sound event. Contact 609-750-7432 or RelaxationandHealing@gmail.com to register.
with Sharon Silverstein & the Peace Project
Saturday February 6, 2010 7:30-9:00pm $10.00
Kirtan is a call and response singing of simple mantras. The distinctive sound composition of Kirtan can free us from the daily chatter of the mind. The instruments and melody create a vibration meditation that can carry us effortlessly to stillness. No musical experience is needed. Join us for an evening of ecstatic chanting with Sharon Silverstein on Vocals, Guitar & Harmonium; Joni Knapp on Tabla; Darlene Popkey on Flute & Harmonium & Marie Soffel on Djembe & Ubang. You won't want to miss this soulful and inspiring sound event. Contact 609-750-7432 or RelaxationandHealing@gmail.com to register.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
You're gonna put those needles where?
Does the idea of being stuck with needles make you cringe? Turned off by the notion of being a human pin cusion? Well, join the club. However, acupuncture needles are a completely different story. I participated in our new class "Acupuncture for Stress Reduction." Under the skilled hands and guidance of Lynne Martin, L.Ac, I learned that not only is Acupuncture pain-free, the results are also amazing. When Lynne inserted 5 teeny tiny needles into each of my ears, the sensation was brief and minimal. I lay comfortable on a yoga mat and listened to the relaxing music as each participant received their ear needles as well. The feeling of peace and well-being that flooded my body was delicious. I felt deeply soothed as if my energy was repairing itself and my vitality was returning. All cares melted away. After 30 minutes, Lynne removed the needles. I felt so awake and grounded, and the feeling remained for the whole day. If you've never tried acupuncture or if you're already a fan, try our Friday group. For just $20.00 you'll receive ear acupuncture and a wonderful hand massage too!
Stress Reduction Acupuncture Group with Lynne Martin, L.Ac.
Fridays, see dates below 11:00am-12:00pm $20.00 per group
Fridays Dec. 4, 2009, January 8, 22, February 19, 2010
In today’s world, stress in an inevitable part of life. One of the most effective and proven methods of stress reduction is Acupuncture. The ear is a micro system of the body, and by needling certain points in the ear, results can be felt throughout the physical body, as well as the mind. This simple protocol works by calming the central nervous system, and releasing endorphins, additional benefits include:
•Alleviates anxiety
•Relieves nervous tension
•Decreases heart rate
•Lowers blood pressure
•Increases energy
•Improves sleep
The group is held in a serene atmosphere and includes auricular acupuncture, relaxing music, candles & aromatherapy. Bring a yoga mat and/or blanket.
Fridays, see dates below 11:00am-12:00pm $20.00 per group
Fridays Dec. 4, 2009, January 8, 22, February 19, 2010
In today’s world, stress in an inevitable part of life. One of the most effective and proven methods of stress reduction is Acupuncture. The ear is a micro system of the body, and by needling certain points in the ear, results can be felt throughout the physical body, as well as the mind. This simple protocol works by calming the central nervous system, and releasing endorphins, additional benefits include:
•Alleviates anxiety
•Relieves nervous tension
•Decreases heart rate
•Lowers blood pressure
•Increases energy
•Improves sleep
The group is held in a serene atmosphere and includes auricular acupuncture, relaxing music, candles & aromatherapy. Bring a yoga mat and/or blanket.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Finding your inner "Bear"

We are so busy looking "outside" ourselves for the answers to life's questions, that we often forget to go "within." That is what Shamanic Journeying is all about. There is a whole other "world" behind our eyes, deep in our hearts, and in the core of our being. There we connect with wisdom just waiting for us and always available. For as long as I can remember I have been pretty good at meditating and entering an altered state. When I do, I am able to see clearly with my minds eye and know things beyond the intellect. The first time that I participated in a Shamanic Journey, it opened that door even wider. I visited the "Lower World," an inner landscape that houses my Spirit Guide in Animal Form. Mine is a bear. Big, bushy, brown and warm. My bear Spirit Guide led me on an adventure through the lower world that helped me reclaim my power and align with my soul. Remember that spirit speaks to us through symbolism, image and metaphor, and in this experience takes the form of a familiar animal. You can receive spiritual guidance as well as practice methods for overcoming the day to day struggles of human life. Sound intriguing? Come experience it for yourself. Led by Jodee Chizever, prepare to go deep into your private inner world to meet your personal Power Animal.
Meet your Power Animal with Jodee Chizever
Sat. November 7, 2009 11:00am-1:00pm $30.00
Power Animals are a reflection of your deepest self and represent qualities which you need in this world, but which are often hidden or obscured. They are Spirit Teachers that take an animal form. Your Power Animal already knows you intimately. Through a safe and guided journey, and the "heart beat" of the drum, you will access inner realms that allow you the opportunity to get to know your personal animal guide. Be prepared for a powerful and transformative experience. Please RSVP if you plan to attend.
Sat. November 7, 2009 11:00am-1:00pm $30.00
Power Animals are a reflection of your deepest self and represent qualities which you need in this world, but which are often hidden or obscured. They are Spirit Teachers that take an animal form. Your Power Animal already knows you intimately. Through a safe and guided journey, and the "heart beat" of the drum, you will access inner realms that allow you the opportunity to get to know your personal animal guide. Be prepared for a powerful and transformative experience. Please RSVP if you plan to attend.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Michele is meditating and you can too

The very first time I meditated I knew I had discovered something special. As I sat on a cushion in a darkened yoga room, I thought "this is the strangest, most mysterious thing I've ever done...and I love it!" Something inside me broke open. I found something on the inside that I had been seeking by looking outside. If all this sounds too vague and esoteric -so be it. While meditation has its mystical aspects, it is also a practical and useful practice. When I teach meditation, I start by grounding students in the practical every-day applications for meditation, knowing that wherever they start, if they continue to practice regularly, they will ultimately wind up in some form of direct immersion with the divine. How does focusing on the rhythm of breath, or the sound of a repetitive word, or the feel of ones heart beating, lead one into relationship with the divine? Part of the answer is - you'll have to discover that for yourself - and the other part is this - through a state of presence, the illusion of mind falls away, revealing the true nature and our oneness with all things. Sound intriguing? Join me for guided meditation this Monday. Or call me to set up a one-on-one meditation lesson. I'm here: 609-750-7432.
Guided Meditation with Michele B. Engoran
Monday October 26, 2009 7:00-8:30pm $15.00
Release stress and start out your week on a peaceful note.
Mondays are a great day to meditate! This group is an opportunity to meditate in an informal small group setting. Michele B. Engoran will lead you through guided and silent meditation practice while touching on the following themes: Releasing Fear, Forgiveness, Self-Worth, Embracing Change, Unconditional Love, and Being in the Present Moment. Please bring a notebook or journal.
Monday October 26, 2009 7:00-8:30pm $15.00
Release stress and start out your week on a peaceful note.
Mondays are a great day to meditate! This group is an opportunity to meditate in an informal small group setting. Michele B. Engoran will lead you through guided and silent meditation practice while touching on the following themes: Releasing Fear, Forgiveness, Self-Worth, Embracing Change, Unconditional Love, and Being in the Present Moment. Please bring a notebook or journal.
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