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The healing effects of gongs are associated with several factors:
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In art, creating from an 'empty well' is like having no inspiration or creative energy. Artists need more than just skill; they need a wellspring of ideas. When faced with a creative block, forcing inspiration isn't always the solution. Sometimes, stepping away from the painting can help. Doing things like cooking, walking, or other repetitive activities can spark inspiration by engaging the mind differently. Cooking, for example, involves creativity and precision. It can help unlock mental any blocks. Taking walks without the pressure of ideas can also allow the mind to wander, opening up unexpected connections and inspirations. Repetitive tasks like writing/journalling or tending a garden can act as active meditation. They give the mind a break while staying engaged. Refilling your creative well isn't just about finding inspiration but about self-care and seeking experiences that fill your soul. Balancing work and rest, seeking inspiration, and exploring different interests help create an environment where creativity can thrive. Sometimes, stepping away and engaging in unrelated activities can be the key to overcoming a creative block. Embracing rest and sometimes daydreaming is crucial in maintaining creativity. As an artist, the ability to create isn't just about the end product; it's about the journey. By nurturing your mind, body, and spirit, you can keep your artistic ambition alive. So, when facing a block, remember that sometimes, the best way to fill your creative well is by doing something entirely different. The blank canvas can wait; for now, focus on filling your well.  Sitting in silence has been a great thing. It's like stopping everything and just being quiet. Imagine sitting somewhere peaceful, hearing the trees sway and the birds singing – and nothing else. It's just you and nature, and it's amazing. Or sitting at home and listen to what is happening around you. The best thing ever.
When you sit in silence, it's like hitting the reset button for your mind. The world's noisy stuff fades out, and you start to hear your thoughts and feel your heartbeat. It's pretty calming. Today's world is all about quick fixes and fast things. But silence is different. It's like going back to basics. It's taking a break from all the noise and giving yourself the chance to hear what's important. Silence helps us focus on the present. It helps us be in the moment, notice things, and appreciate how beautiful the world is. Nature is talking to us in a language only the heart can understand. We forget how good silence can be. But it's always there, waiting for us. So, when everything gets too fast, just try sitting quietly. It doesn't cost anything, but it can give you everything – a moment to find your spiritual self, connect to the now, a connection with nature, and a chance to enjoy just being you. Showing up for others is a cornerstone of great relationships, whether in personal or professional life. We send a powerful message when we consistently show up for our friends, family, colleagues, and customers. It demonstrates our commitment and reliability, two essential qualities for maintaining trust and respect. As the saying goes, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you," and this golden rule guides us in treating others with the respect they deserve. In a professional context, showing up is not just about physically being present; it's about being mentally and emotionally available. Whether attending a business meeting, answering emails, or interacting with clients, your commitment and attentiveness speak volumes about your professionalism. Your customers and colleagues appreciate it when you prioritize their needs and concerns, and this level of care often leads to lasting and productive relationships. Moreover, it's a two-way street. When you consistently show up for others, you tend to attract the same dedication in return. This mutual respect and support create a positive environment. For businesses, this often translates into satisfied customers and loyal clients who appreciate your product or service and value the respectful and dependable relationship they have with your brand. Showing up is not just a physical act; it's a representation of your character and values. It's a way to build and strengthen the bonds of trust, whether in friendships or business relationships. It's a reminder that when we respect and prioritize each other's needs, we foster a culture of collaboration, trust, and mutual success.  As an artist, I've experienced that frustration when a painting doesn't turn out the way I envisioned. It feels like it's trying to take over my mind, and I can't stop thinking about it. It's like a shadow hanging over me until I create something that matches my vision. But you know, it's that very passion and inner drive that makes us artists. It's the constant pursuit of realizing our creativity and creating something that may touch others. Even though it can be frustrating when things don't go as planned, this process also leads to our most meaningful and innovative works. So even when you feel stuck in that frustration, remember that it's part of the journey. It's a reminder that you're an artist who cares about your work and always strives to reach higher. And when you finally find that sweet spot, that specific content feeling, the satisfaction and joy are indescribable. So keep creating, even when it's challenging because it's in those moments of striving and overcoming that true art is born.  Ah, the ego—a complex and ever-present part of our inner world. It's that voice in our heads that's always narrating, evaluating, and making sure we're seen in a certain way. While the ego has its role in helping us navigate the world and establish our identity, it can also be a huge barrier to uncovering our true purpose.
1. Fear of Vulnerability:
Taking notes from my own life, I realized that nothing truly changed until I made the conscious decision to change something in my daily routine. It's a revelation many of us experience at various points in our lives, but it's often the motivation for great transformation. We all have dreams, aspirations, and goals that sometimes seem difficult to catch, but what if the key to unlocking them lies in the simple act of taking a risk? Life can feel like a series of boring drills. Every day feels the same. We seek comfort in the known, in the daily habits and patterns that shape our lives. But there comes a time when we long for something more, something different. This is where taking a chance comes into play. It doesn't have to be a giant leap; even small steps can start the wheels of transformation. It's about stepping out of our comfort zones, taking risks, and finding joy again. Taking that first step can be intimidating, even scary, but as you know, the transformation often begins outside of our comfort zones. It's about embracing uncertainty, learning from failures, and slowly building the life we desire. These baby steps are the foundation of change, helping us test the waters and discover what truly resonates with our desires. The beauty of taking a risk and making changes, no matter how small, is that it has a ripple effect. It sparks a chain reaction of growth, strength, and empowerment. It forces us to confront our fears, SHATTER self-imposed limitations, and open doors to new opportunities. The transformation may not be immediate, but it's a journey of self-discovery and personal development. So, why not reflect on your own life, take that risk, and tackle small but meaningful changes? It may be time to step beyond the boundaries of comfort and embrace the adventure that change brings.  What is destiny and free will? Some say that destiny is the free will of our highest selves. We all possess it, an natural born gift, but not everyone embarks on the journey to discover it. Our destiny is like a hidden treasure map, a path that lies just beneath the surface of our everyday lives. It's there, waiting for us to unveil its secrets, and it's our duty to embark on this quest.
Discovering your destiny is a bit like coming home. It's that unmistakable feeling of belonging as if you've finally arrived at the place you were always meant to be. Yet, the path to finding it can be complicated. So, how do we find our true purpose? Think of it as a treasure hunt, with clues scattered along the way. Some are very in your face obvious, like signposts, while others are subtle whispers from the universe. The key is to keep your senses open, your eyes open, and your intuition finely tuned. Small and significant cues will guide you toward your destiny, leading you with gentle nudges to where you are meant to be. Of course, there will be an ego as a barrier if you find your purpose not being what you thought it would be. But that will be another blog as it is a big topic. Once you've found your destiny, the real adventure begins. It's the exciting moment when you start to live the life designed for you. You begin to understand that your unique purpose is the puzzle piece that completes the grand mosaic of existence. And in that discovery, you find your true fulfillment and place in the world. In the last few years there has been an unmistakable interest and growth in sound healing: gong and sound baths. What was once thought of as a niche healing modality has become a much-loved and widely appreciated practice. Just as yoga was over a decade ago, sound healing has emerged as an impactful way to enhance one's overall well-being. Sound healing's rise in popularity can be caused by a few factors. First, people seek holistic approaches to health and wellness, and many of my friends (and myself) are choosing an alternative approach to health issues. Sound healing offers a unique and deeply immersive experience that addresses physical health, mental and emotional balance. The powerful sound of gongs and other sound instruments can create a deep sense of relaxation, reduce stress, and promote inner harmony. Also, sound healing has found its way into wellness centers, spas, yoga studios, and even mainstream healthcare settings as a complementary modality for stress reduction and pain management. The broader acceptance of the mind-body connection can also explain the growth of sound healing. People are more aware of the interplay between mental and physical health, and sound healing provides a holistic avenue for addressing both. Whether you're drawn to the healing vibrations of gongs, singing bowls, or other instruments, sound healing continues to grow and adapt to meet the needs of those seeking greater harmony and well-being. If you want to see how and why it works, sign up for a sound bath with me!  In 1998, I stood in the aisles of a bookstore at NK in downtown Stockholm. As I searched the shelves, one book caught my eye: "The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying" by Sogyal Rinpoche, a Tibetan Buddhist teacher. Little did I know that this moment would be part of a very fascinating spiritual journey. I would soon discover that the book's purpose was not only to delve into the mystery of death but to serve as a guide in understanding the complicated journey of life, death, and the suffering that is part of our human existence. In the beginning, I was a little reluctant to read this book but it got great reviews and I was very curious about its content. "The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying" is an ode to the strength of the human spirit. It encourages readers to confront the realities of life, the nature of existence, and the difficulties we all must face. While the book talks about suffering as a part of our journey, it offers an empowering perspective: we can find a way to cope with suffering and then transcend it through practicing compassion and love. As I turned the pages, I began to find the wisdom within, learning that our capacity for compassion is a means of relieving suffering and a walk toward spiritual growth. It became evident that by cultivating this compassionate outlook, we could find a way to navigate the challenges that life throws at us and approach death with grace and composure. That chance encounter with "The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying" was the starting point of my spiritual awakening. It taught me that understanding life and death and finding solace and peace of mind in the face of suffering is not only possible but necessary. This remarkable book has left an important mark on my journey, offering timeless wisdom and a compassionate perspective that continues to guide me today. If you're aiming to let others genuinely get to know you, welcoming vulnerability is the key that unlocks the door to genuine connection. Vulnerability is about sharing your feelings, allowing your emotions to flow freely, and trusting your inner compass. When you open yourself up to your feelings, you're on the path to a deeper understanding of your own needs and desires. Trusting your emotions is a powerful journey of self-discovery. It involves tuning in to your complex feelings and allowing them to guide you. Whether it's the gentle whisper of happiness or the anger roaring in your ear/gut/head/heart, these emotions give clues to understanding what you truly need. Through this process, you'll gain insight into your emotional range and uncover a deeper understanding of who you are and what makes you tick. Trusting your emotions is like opening a window into self-reflection. You gain clarity when you permit yourself to feel, examine, and process those emotions. This clarity empowers you to navigate life's twists and turns more easily and gracefully. You become better equipped to respond to your needs and desires, making the journey of life a smoother, more authentic, and ultimately more fulfilling experience. Choosing vulnerability and embracing your emotions is a massive act of self-empowerment. It's not always easy, but the rewards are immense. Through vulnerability and self-awareness, you'll make your life easier and boost genuine connections and a deeper understanding of yourself and those around you.  It is important to remain resilient and focused amidst a constant drip-drip of information. Such a steady stream of traumatic information, coming in small increments and intermittent intervals (and constantly feeding us fear), can be tiring and overwhelming. It can cloud our thoughts and make it difficult to think clearly. During such times, it is essential to stay strong and grounded. Here are a few strategies to help maintain your mental clarity and resilience:
 Did you know that the energy we put out into the world has a way of circling back to us? Gossiping, for instance, is a behavior that can have unexpected consequences. It's a phenomenon often underrated, but it holds deep truth. Gossiping, when unchecked, can return with negativity, like a boomerang that spirals back to affect us. We all do it, but if it consumes your thoughts and mind, it has become a big problem that does not serve you. The words we speak and the thoughts we harbor carry an energetic weight that stays in our aura. Negativity, in particular, can seep into our energy field, casting a shadow over our experiences. It's like a constant (negative) vibe and frequency, affecting our emotional body and interactions with the world. What drives the compulsion to gossip? Often, it stems from feelings of inadequacy or insecurity. The very act of gossiping can remind us of the lack of confidence we seek to escape. It's a self-perpetuating cycle. Acknowledging this cycle is the first step to break free from it. By embracing positivity and kindness in our words and thoughts, we can begin to reshape our energy field and attract more positive experiences into our lives. It's a journey toward self-empowerment, where we choose to uplift ourselves and those around us.  We often face challenges and setbacks that can leave us feeling vulnerable and wounded. It's so easy to respond by building walls around our hearts to protect that inner child, shielding ourselves from further pain. Yet, what if, instead of retreating into the shadows, we chose to step into our power, embracing the radiance within us?
Standing in your light and glory doesn't mean denying your past pain or vulnerability. It's about believing that within us lies an incredible strength and resilience. This inner strength is the source of our true power. When we dare to shine, we radiate authenticity and self-assuredness. Embracing our inner light means being vulnerable, and in that vulnerability, we find connection and understanding. We invite others to do the same when we stand in our truth. We inspire them to let down their walls and join us in the dance of authenticity. So, let's make a pact with ourselves to stand in our power, embrace our inner light, and lead with our hearts. As we do, we'll not only find strength and authenticity within, but we'll also light the way for others to follow. Together, we can create a brighter, more genuine tomorrow where walls are replaced with bridges and our inner light shines for all to see. Art life coaching focuses on helping individuals, particularly artists/creatives or those seeking a more creative and fulfilling life, navigate their artistic journey, overcome challenges, set and achieve goals, and finding a balance between their art and other aspects of their lives. It is a collaborative and holistic approach that combines coaching techniques with an understanding of the creative process.
Here's how art life coaching can benefit beginners and artists in various aspects of their lives, mainly when dealing with feeling stuck: 1. Overcoming Creative Blocks:
Contact me at ajempowerment@gmail or call 250-667-0799. |
Annica JohanssonMy name is Annica Johansson and I am an Art Life Coach, Certified Sound Healer and Artist. I am writing about personal development, daily musings, spirituality and depicting mother nature's amazing beauty. Welcome! Categories
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