Spiritual Healing, Empowerment, Healing from Trauma and Spiritual Recovery: Voodoo Concepts
It may surprise you to know that Vodou is one of the most holistic and healing of spiritual traditions. We turn to God the Divine Spirits for strength, insight, illumination, and clarity on any issues we are struggling with; all needed to begin the healing process for ourselves and those we serve on behalf of Spirit. We perceive all traumatic and painful experiences are indeed spiritual in nature and therefore, the solutions must include spiritual approaches and remedies.
Prayers, rituals and sacred space to commune with our spirits is a daily priority. This strengthens our connection, faith and attunement. This also allows the Divine walk before us to help make any “crooked places” straight on our path. Even during the darkest hours of our lives, and the most excruciatingly painful experiences, our faith comes before all to weather those storms.
Wounds often turn us toward spirit. We often say, “be grateful for those wounds that connect you to Spirit.” We believe those life changing, heart wrenching and painful episodes of our lives are all by “design.” They may have occurred to shine a spotlight in our life’s path, or teaching us lessons we must master, or to elevate and evolve our consciousness, or redirecting our path for something more aligned with our soul. Whatever the overall reason is, we grow through these lessons as they are our greatest teachers, and simultaneously strengthen our connection to God and the Divine Spirits.
This doesn’t always provide comfort to those enduring their darkest hours however. We are deeply sensitive to how crushing and devastating these experiences can be. We spend a great deal of our spiritual practice at Erzulie’s Voodoo assisting those whom seek our help with detecting the root causes of a painful situation and illuminate how we would approach that healing process in the Vodou tradition. If you are struggling with a painful situation and need help with the overwhelming emotions, confusion or grief, we have loving, caring, compassionate and highly experienced practitioners to assist you with any spiritual counseling or spiritual healing remedies to set you on your path to recovery.
This page on spiritual healing, empowerment, healing from trauma and spiritual recovery was designed to offer an easier reference on these deep, complicated dynamics and the ancient spiritual beliefs about coping with the emotional pain and spiritual turbulence. We assembled our most popular and relevant social media memes to offer an introduction or quick reference on how we encourage you to view these difficult and dark times from a spiritual perspective.
Each image was created and designed by the Root Queen (the owner) herself, using her images, film, photos and artwork she has personally painted over the years. Once she is done with the image selection to go with the message that “pops in her head that day,” she finishes the rest of the graphics and artwork for social media and then writes the spiritual message to post. Her goal is to provide support, knowledge and to help “make the inconceivable, more comprehensible.” She says this is part of her “Prayer Time and Spirit Time” each morning and overall life’s work; to bring healing and awareness to anyone who is suffering to connect them to the power of the Vodou spirits and explore deeply held spiritual truths and empowerment. If you are not part of our social media, please join us (links above and below) as she posts messages quite often and they are always very illuminating.
We do hope the pieces we selected on this page help you seek comfort, wisdom and brings more spiritual awareness in your life when dealing with a heartbreaking crisis. Scroll down to learn more about spiritual healing, empowerment, healing from trauma and spiritual recovery concepts!
Posted Feb. 2019 ~ Great changes take, great change…change: it’s not something we are wired to easily embrace. Finding comfort in the uncomfortable is needed. Knowing the time is now to make great changes in our lives, friends, relationships and environment, but yet still frozen in the darkness. But, the darkness is where those seeds are planted, the darkness is where you bloom. Listening to your soul and spirit is scary and requires unwavering faith. Trusting the Divine hand is guiding your path, which too, is hard as we have to let go. Doing nothing is easy, which is why so many choose that route. But you my dears, you are destined for something greater, something better. So, for those looking for a sign as to how and when. The time is now to burn those bridges that need burning, embrace the discomfort of uncertainty, remove all fear, light your world on fire, and make those scary changes: Be Notorious!
Posted July 2020 ~ I always stress this, and I’ll say it again ~ especially for my peeps dealing with the recent resurfacing of toxic folks: stop fixing broken people & protect your energy. Your time and energy is your most precious commodity. It’s not your job to fix all that is broken, nor entertain their attempts to engage with you. Take care of yourself FIRST! Avoiding certain people to protect your energy is not unkind. It’s wisdom. #protectyourenergy, #wisdom, #takecareofyourself, #focusonyou, #takecare, #selfcare, #toxicpeople, #stopfixingthings, #brokenpeople, #yourvibe, #avoidbrokenpeople, #keepthepastinthepast, #freeyourself, #energy, #unbroken, #spiritualtruths, #guardyourenergy, #spiritualinsight, #nodrama, #peace, #movement, #boundaries, #nogoingback, #emotionalprotection, #selfpreservation, #farewell, #notopeningthatdoor, #selflove, #selfrespect, #nocontact
Posted Jan. 2020 ~ A New Year ~ a New Decade ~a New You ~ begins soon! Such a powerful opportunity to create the NEW LIFE you dream about. Much of what the New Year brings depends upon what you’re bringing into it…and if you’re truly honest, what you can’t bring into your life anymore. Leave behind all those who disrespect, deceive, disregard your favor or dishonor your presence in their lives. It’s time to leave all those toxic energies behind you, as they will only cheat you from your glorious future. Throw the trash out! A long, tumultuous and chaotic decade has passed…and that is where it needs to stay, in the past. Hello 2020, let’s do this!!!!
Posted Sept. 2020 ~ Ships don’t sink because of the water around them; ships sink because of the water that gets in them. Be very careful who you let in your inner world, and who you let stay. Many will appear with hidden agendas outside of love. Many will appear just out of curiosity and not genuine concern, especially if you’re particularly vulnerable. Only let those who truly love you, motivate you, inspire you and make you happy remain; if there are those in your world who do none of those things, let them go. Protect your space and kingdom on all realms. #kingdom, #letnooneenter, #protection, #sinkingships, #agendas, #comeinlove, #becareful, #spiritualtruths, #boundaries, #letthemgo, #motivation, #inspiration, #spiritual, #innerworld, #fiercelyguardyourworld, #innercircle, #trust, #protectyourspace, #protectyourenergy, #realms, #spiritualrealms, #asabovesobelow, #energy, #buildingempires, #success, #growth, #transistions, #attunement, #intuition, #spiritualsafety
Posted April 2020 ~ Oh the “unsettled” or “restless” feeling I’m hearing so much about lately in my sessions! This quarantine has certainly shined a glaring spotlight into all those areas which feel unfulfilled or dormant, and with so many. Take this gift of isolation time and start pursuing those dreams left on the back burner known as “too busy.” Align your interactions with those you can learn something from, those who strive for more, those who are stretching and reaching into new territories. You’ll find your new, higher ground much quicker. If you’re feeling unsettled, it may mean you were meant for more, and this is the perfect time to explore what that means. #meantformore, #unsettled, #restless, #reach, #explore, #strive, #pursurepassions, #youhavetime, #youdoyou, #spiritspeaks, #vibes, #intuition, #whatismissing, #alignment, #influences, #inspiration, #motivation, #dreams, #goals, #higherground, #becoming, #passions, #newlife, #opportunity, #truth, #thrive, #stretching, #learning, #growing, #blessings
Posted July 2020 ~ As we all know, retrogrades tend to surface the past: past wounds, past mistakes, past behaviors and most often, people we really want to keep in the past. Nothing like a wicked retrograde to surface old, toxic, exhausting people from the past haha! This prayer is good way to wrap up those suddenly appearing from the most recent retrograde energies…release them all with love and respect. They no longer have a place in your new life. Forward motion, looking up and moving on up is your new space! #release, #prayers, #loveandrespect, #movingforward, #retrograde, #mercuryretrograde, #leavethepastbehind, #thepastisthepast, #noneedtoreconnect, #rearviewmirror, #movingup, #movingon, #forwardmotion, #newspace, #respectandlove, #letitgo, #letgoletGod, #prayerswork, #lookingup, #movingup, #newlevels, #truth, #blessings, #spiritspeaks, #relationships, #runitscourse, #farewell
Posted June 2020 ~ A little reminder that of all the things you could be in this world, be kind. I’m seeing so much tension and sniping at each other even in the most benign situations, like the line at the grocery store or post office. While I know there is much to be distressed about this past year, and nerves are on edge for most, let’s try to be kinder to each other…we’re all in this together folks and everyone is fighting a tough battle! Kindness IS magic! #kindness, #bekind, #changetheworld, #kindnessismagic, #raiseyourvibe, #highvibe, #goodvibes, #smilemore, #patience, #peace, #compassion, #bepeace, #empathy, #support, #blessings, #magic, #spiritualtruths, #supporteachother, #loveeachother, #love, #loveistheanswer, #awareness, #perspective, #peaceful, #smoothvibes, #goodjuju, #understanding, #helpothers, #onelove, #harmnone
Posted Oct. 2019 ~ Something to really examine in your life; who and what are you surrounded by??? If uninspiring, chaotic, unstable and draining, it’s trapping you in a circular rut of stagnation. When you break free from the cage of toxic people, and their energies, not only will you free up your time and improve your mindset in ways you can’t image, you will also accelerate and level up much faster towards your destiny. Look around, what do you see??? Is this where you want to stay?
Posted Aug. 2020 ~ A little reminder about healing and being happy again, especially for those who are pushing through a dark cycle. You’re doing amazing. Your prayers are being heard. Your heart will heal. Your soul will repair itself. You will heal. And, your happiness will come back again…#healing, #happiness, #woundsheal, #youwillheal, #youareamazing, #breathe, #darkcycles, #inspiration, #happinesswillreturn, #soul, #prayers, #blessings, #faith, #prayersanswered, #bethelight, #spiritspeaks, #encouragement, #gettingthrough, #trust, #believe, #soulrepair, #pray, #soulspeaks, #healingrituals, #youwillbehappy, #itwillbeok, #empowerment, #selflove, #healingprocess
Posted Aug. 2019 ~ This is the perfect time to take inventory of your vision for yourself and your life. What are your thoughts, dreams and how far have you come? It’s also the perfect time to examine who you are surrounded by and, how they are impeding or supporting your vision. Tune into their patterns, energy and influence in your life. Do they bring high or low vibrations? Those you spend the most time with indeed effect your progress and growth, so assess honestly. Contemplate what is untrue, inauthentic and insincere in your environment and your own inner narrative. What are you telling yourself and where are you complacent? Gaze into your crystal ball this week, reconnect to your soul and the visions you have for your future. If you find you’re still in the wrong story, now is the time to leave.
Posted Oct. 2019 ~ The beginning of Fall reminds us the season has changed. This is also a good time to examine where our lives have or need changing as well. When we’re immersed in our environment, we can’t really see through a clear, unfiltered lens. Only with distance can we gain clarity and perspective. Only when you have distance, REAL distance from your current life, are you able to see how far you’ve come or, how far you’ve strayed from your path. Distance brings into light where your standards are, who you are surrounding yourself with and what are you tolerating or accepting. Distance forces us to ask the hard questions of the choices you’ve made, the lifestyles of your peers and where it is heading. Distance asks if we even recognize ourselves anymore and if not, are you a better version or one that needs realignment? Only distance can show you what can no longer be accepted or what is absolutely embraced in your current situation. Distance reminds you of the person you used to be, and who you will become if continuing on this trajectory. For those who know their lives are spiraling or feel major changes are needed, step back from the whirlwind of the familiar and take some distance on the cusp of this new season. You will see everything with crystal clear vision.
Posted Sept. 2019 ~ I hear this a lot in my private sessions with clients; they’re trying to make real changes in their lives, habits, patterns or destiny and invariably, loved ones or “friends” are undermining the process with what I call the “pull back.” Whether it be through creating drama to divert their attention, using the garden variety of emotional blackmail tricks or finding passive ways to impede their progress. The truth of the matter is, this is YOUR LIFE! You have to stop letting people take what’s yours: your dreams, goals, self-worth and energy. Often, one needs to become “unavailable” to invest the time needed in themselves to get to the next level, and this is both OKAY and necessary. This is a reminder for those who may have forgotten they have to do what’s best for their lives, and not everyone else’s.
Posted Apr. 2019 ~ As we move into a time of new beginnings, new roads and new visions for our lives, I’ve been hearing a lot from clients lately in my spiritual sessions, they’re becoming increasingly more isolated from the old “scene.” Not a bad thing, at all, in fact it’s a gift. People, places and routines are becoming a bit of a drag, tiresome and you’re not quite enjoying that old, familiar “vibe.” This is perfectly normal when making changes to elevate your life and purpose. When spirit is moving you to a new level, they start by removing your circle. Back up and read that again! The circle of people or influences who are most comfortable not progressing or not improving or not maturing or, as is often the case, those who are unable to reciprocate genuine friendship or support, frozen in a rut, routine and self-imposed limitations. And when this happens, you start seeing their weight and drag on your life, purpose and passions. As one evolves on their path, a new level of awareness, effort, encouragement and abilities is required, thus, you find you invariably have to change your circles. Spirit will move you away from anything not aligned with your destiny. Not everyone is interested nor capable of supporting your improvements or success, and that’s ok too…your elevation will require separation and isolation from the past because the truth is, many cannot continue on your journey.
Posted Mar. 2019 ~ Emptiness…for those having feelings of emptiness…this is part of the transformative process and confirms you are transitioning to new levels, new directions and new territories. Shedding the old ideals, environment, routines, connections and energies: all to make way for this new phase in your life. While these feelings are uncomfortable and often times, bring up many dormant, unresolved areas buried deep within, it is necessary. It is also temporary. This phase of emptiness removes those carefully constructed barriers from our old ways of being, to discover new passions or uncover a new purpose, which leads us to our destiny. “Your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart. Who looks outside, dreams. Who looks inside, AWAKENS!” ~ Jung. This one is also for my beautiful, fashionista friend in London, Ms. Elizabeth M. who is bravely walking down these uncertain roads…the moonlight will guide your way!! I promise!
Posted Oct. 2019 ~ When you’re dealing with trauma or grief from rejection, betrayal or abandonment in a relationship, you are in a “wound space” until you are fully healed. This takes time and examining the hard internal issues which led you here. Something I see often in my practice is this tendency to jump from new relationship to new relationship and invariably, this new person is even worse than the last. From a spiritual and Vodou perspective during the healing process, it is never the best energetic time to relationship jump; no matter how lonely you may feel or needing some escape from the grief, or needing external validation; you have an almost guaranteed chance of drawing a toxic, deceptive, injurious person into your life. You more than likely will resonate with those from a place of being wounded, and usually, those resonating with you in this energetic space are deeply harmful predators. The toxic spirits they carry can smell vulnerability a mile away and will deliberately seek you out. We cannot discern the energies so well from this space, as we are malnourished in this area, almost starved, and suddenly, the most toxic creature is now a tonic because they look like a whole meal. For those from traumatic childhoods, where your needs were never met, your chances radically increase until you are healed from that toxic dance and spiritual imprint. As is said, “we all eat lies when our hearts are hungry” or as I say, “heal before you deal!”
Posted Sept. 2019 ~ I’m using one of my most favorite and sacred Vodou drapos on my altar for Erzulie-Freda to convey this much needed reminder about our hearts. We often get so trapped in replaying the hurts, betrayals, unconscionable behaviors and all the heartbreaks we’ve endured, we can remain brittle, hard and shattered; closed off to the love around us. I see this every day in my spiritual consultations, a once loving, genuine and generous soul, has shut down entirely due painful heartbreak. And, while during the grieving process this is natural, to live an amazing and fulfilling life, it is not a place we can dwell too long. Try to focus on those unhealed and unloved parts of your heart and start your recovery process. Healing comes opening your heart, and softening those razor-sharp fragments that won’t let the love in. Stay soft…it brings so much more healing and joy and…it looks so beautiful on you.
Posted Apr. 2019 ~ I’m posting this today as you may be experiencing radical shake-ups, break-ups and unexpected shifts in your world due to the total solar eclipse. This is the day where the Sun, the Moon and the Earth are all in perfect alignment, much like the Holy Trinity of the cosmos. These profound and intense energies are forcing a reset, reassessment or for many, a complete breaking free from a stagnating cycle. This eclipse is shaking you loose from your spiritual, emotional and environment ruts; ready or not change is happening! So don’t be discouraged if you find yourself moving far away from old friends, environments or colleagues. You’re growing and elevating; not everyone can continue with you, nor should they. This eclipse will not let you remain small just because those around refuse to change, grow, explore, expand or elevate. If you find yourself losing more people in your social life or find yourself becoming exhausted at their tired, old, predictable routines, know you are absolutely on the right track! But the best part: this total eclipse promises to open some new, amazing doors for you brave, transforming souls! Opportunities are knocking so embrace the changes, endings and your glorious new pathways!
Posted Mar. 2019 ~ With all this intense retrograde energy and activity, it allows us a chance to look back at how far we’ve come, all the major changes, shifts and goals we set, and the opportunity to see, what will never be a part of our story again. As with all retrogrades, this is also the time the past suddenly resurfaces to connect and find a way to remain in your world. Many forfeited their position in your life, so hold firm to your boundaries: they have nothing new to say. For those closing the chapters of their old life and severing old ties, environments and connections to propel you towards your destiny, this post and for you! And a huge congratulations on releasing everything and everyone not feeding your soul. Well done! You’ve made it!
Posted May 2019 ~ What is it that ignites you? And, does your current life reflect this? If not, you have to keep it moving toward that direction. This is the time to reconnect to what your soul is telling you; take some time to sit still and examine your situation. Does this match how your soul feels? Quiet the mind, without your narratives, the story you tell yourself, without the fears, without the comfortable familiar, without others’ expectations playing in your head, or any other distractions you’ve cultivated to avoid the numbness and listen to your soul. Create the space for what you need, crave and dream. Your life changes dramatically when you align with your soul.
Posted Nov. 2019 ~ For those struggling to move on from a toxic relationship; whether it be romantic, friend, family or environment, making the commitment to NOT go back is often the first step to moving forward. You can’t heal by dancing with the same energies which caused you harm, injury or made you spiritually and emotionally wounded. Toxic bonds are not “soul sponsored,” they are not healthy and absolutely not sustainable. Read that again! Your destiny will invariably demand better treatment, healthy love and genuine souls to walk with you. Commit to yourself, commit to your freedom and commit to not going back to that toxic dynamic.
Posted Mar. 2019 ~ Never discredit your gut. Your body has the ability to detect if something isn’t quite right about another person. If I had a dollar for every time a client (and myself included for that matter) confirmed they “knew” something was deceptive, hidden, off, unstable, parasitic or toxic about new person entering their lives, I’d be a very, wealthy woman. Sadly, we are taught to second guess our strongest radar: our inner voice. Instead, we are encouraged to view the world through the lens of our morals, values and sincerity, which causes this uncertainty and conflict between head and gut. We end up granting the benefit of the doubt to the wrong people with this noble bias of truth approach; even when we know something isn’t quite right. I am known to jokingly say, “and just when I think I’m too paranoid, I find I’m not paranoid enough!” ~ LOL! But it is true, you are NOT paranoid and your body does tell you to stay away or step back from these charades of human beings, usually by how they make you feel energetically when in their presence. Pay close attention to those deep, instinctual feelings from the onset, and don’t allow them to gain any foothold in your world. Accept no one entering your life at face value, because betrayal never comes from your enemies folks.
Posted Jan. 2017 ~ The beginning of a New Year is always a good time to examine your boundaries…saying “NO” may make certain people angry, but it will set you free…stop pleasing people at your emotional expense…if they get angry at your boundaries, they’re the problem!
Posted Feb. 2019 ~ Wanting a sign IS a sign…it’s usually the first indication things have or are about to change. When you start sensing subtle shifts, uncertainty, or even anxiety, chances are you are about to be making some new decisions somewhere in your world. With respect to romantic relationships however, wanting a sign tends to bring about a need for confirmation and clarity often due to conflicting behavior, the nagging feeling something isn’t quite aligned or, someone’s needs have changed. Either way, the first step to releasing any doubts and uncertainties is to recognize when they begin, sitting still to address the swirling thoughts and pinpoint where in your world they are stemming from. Your mind wouldn’t be wanting a sign to begin with if something hasn’t changed or needs to be addressed. Embrace these changes and find comfort in the unknown as it’s a gift: the gift of awareness and intuition, two very powerful tools. So for those looking for a sign to confirm a certain area needs revisiting, this is your sign. Let us know if we can be of any help in clarifying those signs for you too, our highly experienced practitioners offer many spiritual options for just these situations!
Posted Apr. 2019 ~ Examine your motivations. Why are you pursuing something or someone? Habit? Ego? Conditioning? Pattern? Because it’s expected of you? Ask yourself what are you really gaining from all this frenzied energy? Is this truly who or what best serves you? Are you addicted to the chase? Is this a repetitive pattern to divert you from your fears of truly pursing what is in your heart to do? Fear of change? Are you stuck in the comfortable familiar? These are vital questions to ask if you find yourself in more reactive or, repetitive life choices and cycles. As Rumi says, “always be suspicious of what you want.” Examining your motivations is liberating and brings the freedom needed to make miraculous changes in your life.
Posted Dec. 2019 ~ As we move into the holiday season I’m hearing more and more in our spiritual sessions the panic about having to engage with toxic family members, and this imposed “obligation” by those in the family who enable said toxic behavior. The truth is, you are not required to engage with toxic family, not even a little. You are not required to entertain toxic family patterns of disrespect, chaos, manipulation, insults or lies. Nor are you required to respect someone who has never treated you with respect, just because you’re related. Respect is not a given, it is earned ~ read that again! If you’ve been treated badly, without accountability, avoid those family members, as that is the only thing you are required to do ~ protect your well being. There is no virtue in tolerating toxic or abusive behavior. There is no virtue in tolerating anyone who threatens your emotional health, safety and peace. Break free of the toxic family patterns this holiday season and surround yourself by your chosen, loving family instead.
Posted Jan. 2020 ~ Just a little reminder for my friends here to make sure your New Year and New Decade is as peaceful and prosperous as possible. Never go by mere words…most everyone can talk pretty, particularly when in need, and most especially toxic manipulators. Rather, go by their actions…always and only by their actions. People will always DO what they WANT to do! If they are not reciprocating, calling, reliable, honest, or impeccable with their word, it is because they are choosing to behave this way, choosing to take the best and not give anything back. Your only job is to STAY AWAY. Seriously, just stay away, and don’t get caught in those volatile traps of false hope and crushing disappointment. You no longer need to entertain such nonsense, you have a whole new life here. Keep your 2020 peaceful, joyful and prosperous by cutting out these disruptive and chaotic energies.
Posted Dec. 2019 ~ A little holiday reminder for my friends who are dealing with some tough and painful situations, endings and harsh truths about their nearest and dearest during the holidays. I’m seeing so much of this in our spiritual sessions this season for sure. I always say, if they truly valued you, they would never put themselves in a position to lose you. Sometimes, you gotta give them what they want and, what their behavior shows they want: your absence. For those undeserving of you, there is no better gift.
Posted Dec. 2019 ~ Ohhhh the holidays, or as I like to call them, “relationship nostalgia season.” This is the time of year I hear constantly in my spiritual sessions, the endless reports of exes reaching out, toxic friends trying to circle back into your life, and estranged loved ones making attempts to reconnect, all under the convenient guise of holiday cheer. Don’t be fooled by the “I miss you’s,” or the “just thinking of you,” or the “hey beautiful’s,” or whatever other transparent, pretty words they choose. They are still the same unreliable, self absorbed, thoughtless, toxic and hurtful people they always were, which caused the disconnect to begin with. While there are numerous reasons for their efforts, usually the abysmal, lonely and sad lives which they’ve chosen due to their atrocious behavior, their motivations as always, have NOTHING TO DO WITH YOU, it’s all about THEM. They’re testing the waters in hopes you won’t adhere to your new found boundaries and they can creep back in. You’ve suffered enough with their antics, went through the grieving process of their cruelty, moved on and now in an amazing place! When spirit gives you a new beginning, don’t repeat the same mistake twice. Snakes rarely come to you with hisses and rattling their tale, they’re much too manipulative for that ~ they announce themselves as old loves, old friends and nostalgic family ties. No response is the antidote!
Posted May 2018 ~ I took this photo recently, of a man in a suit, walking on the beach for a while, deep in thought…it had such a profound effect on me since we so rarely see anyone in today’s society not seeking endless distractions, needing attention, snapping non-stop selfies and creating constant noise. None of which will ever fulfill the void in your lives. This man, in his quiet walk of solitude, reminded me how powerful we become when we learn to be alone. Being alone is a central component to loving ourselves, self empowerment and increase faith in our abilities and focus. Most importantly, it allows us to include those in our sacred space based upon love, and not loneliness…which is so often the case. The hardest walk you can take is alone, which is why it makes us the strongest and develops our seat of power.
Posted July 2017 ~ Oh yes…all those difficult people, toxic relationships, painful experiences and life defining lessons…all that madness made you discover who you are, and what you’re truly made of…cherish the person you found, and love that person first ~ for that’s who you’ll be spending the rest of your life with! A butterfly can never be a caterpillar again!
Posted Sept. 2017 ~ For our loved ones who are struggling with deeply painful situations: losses, grief, heartbreak or betrayal and how to best support them during such a destabilizing, and often, shocking time. I was having this conversation on this very topic earlier today, with one of my dearest family members. I reminded her that everyone’s “language of love” is so different: how they express it, how they empathize, how they show support, even if not quite what we need, lol! In our efforts to support, we inadvertently project our manner of handling a matter, or assume they are processing as we would, or assign our coping skills onto others and often forget, our processing of grief varies drastically. Often, those in such acute agony cannot express all the underlying emotions, the relentless rumination, or articulate the painful feelings swirling around in their minds, which indeed, affect every single reaction, thought or perception in every other area of their lives. Not everything they think, feel or perceive is true either, often it’s the grief talking so try not to correct or remind, instead, be gentle and patient with those suffering around you. There is a certain healing power in your softness during these times; what you feel is best, or what they should be doing is really irrelevant; even with the best of intentions. Sometimes, just sitting quietly with them is all they need. Recovery is NEVER IN A STRAIGHT LINE. Quietly loving them, and honoring their emotions, helps remind them of these truths: “what’s broken can be mended, what hurts can be healed and no matter how dark it is right now, the sun will rise again.” Alafia!
Posted Mar. 2017 ~ For those struggling with a deeply painful or heartbreaking situation, you will get through it stronger than before and, the experience will serve you down the road…no matter how cruel the lesson feels at present…hope this reminder helps. You are my heroes!
Posted May 2017 ~ Letting go is a process and one of the hardest, often times, most painful things we have to do in life…they say time heals all wounds, but I’m not so sure about that…I think LOVE heals those wounds…try each day to LOVE yourself enough to let go of those regrets, your oozing wounds and those that are already gone…free yourself from the past…your future is waiting…
Posted Jan 2017 ~ Such a liberating feeling to no longer be the person you used to be…look how far you’ve come and how much stronger you are! Lose touch with any other person you no longer want to “be” as well ~ make this your best year for growth and improvements in your life!
Posted Mar. 2017 ~ Sharing a beautiful view of solitude with you today…it’s moments like these that restore your soul…enjoy…
Posted Feb. 2017 ~ For my loved ones emotionally struggling: when all else fails, punch your way through, literally! I say this in jest, sorta, as an avid boxer…movement is magic! Don’t underestimate the spiritual power of movement. Movement simultaneously flushes out the stored trauma, layers of grief, negative energies, sadness, depression and all the distress we stockpile in our sacred vessel while revitalizing our entire being of mind, body and soul. Movement strengths your connection, prayers and intercession with your spirits and renews your discipline, focus and determination. The issues are ALWAYS in our tissues, much like they’re ALWAYS in our mind and, in our spirit. Those days you can’t bear the thought of moving are the days YOU NEED to push that energy through the most…counterintuitive and annoying, YES, (nobody wants to hide under the covers and eat cheese puffs more than me, trust me!) but any form of movement is the fastest method to flushing out all that heavy, oppressive energy, fears, terrors, sadness and discouragement that is compounding and destabilizing your precious being and weakening your life force. No true warrior is immune to any of this, but they fight through it anyway. Keep on punching like the CHAMP you are!!!
Posted July 2018 ~ In case you forgot…you have the power to do, feel or be anything you wish…stop giving others the power to control your life, emotions, time, value, happiness, progress, success and worth…that power solely rests with you! You are MAGIC ~ never hide or apologize for that fire inside of you…stop giving it away and be the soul you were meant to be…the power is in your hands folks, start using it!
Posted Mar. 2017 ~ Set the intention to put yourself and your needs first…stop neglecting yourself, you are not SECOND best, you are THE BEST…commit to honor yourself more…you are the HEAD, not the TAIL…you are ABOVE not BENEATH, you can BEND, but you will not BOW!!!
Posted July 2017 ~ And on the topic of freedom today, some powerful words from one extraordinary and unapologetic lady, Nina Simone…may you free yourself from the grip of fear and find the sweet release of freedom.
Posted Sept. 2017 ~ This is also the season for the people in your past trying to re-enter your life and seems to be a recurring theme amongst my clients lately. I wanted to put out a gentle reminder that forgiving them for their reckless and hurtful behavior, which ended the relationship, is very different than restoring them back in your life. You first have to make very sure they aren’t coming back from a place of ill intent; trying to see how well you’ve survived their wreckage, or the comfortable back-up plan when they realize the grass wasn’t much greener afterall, which sadly is often the motivating ego-based factors. Please keep in mind, any type of betrayal or dishonesty demonstrated within the relationship lends towards their fundamental character, and has a high probability of surfacing again without them doing the real, tough, inner work. Forgiveness is always the key to set you free in these scenarios, as forgiveness is for your benefit, but it is not the same as restoring them back in your life, which is for theirs…for they have chosen, through their behavior, to lose that privilege of being seated with you again!
Posted Dec. 2016 ~ Release the past; especially the past anger and hurts…these energies are poison and impeding your new life. Empower yourself now!
Posted Oct. 2017 ~ Working with some of the amazing Halloween decorations around the French Quarter for our messages this month. My favorite little creepy baby head, perched on a stoop around the corner, reminded me of this Buddha quote…hmmm…wonder what other secrets she holds? Yes, our heads can be a terrible place to dwell, especially when working through anything painful or traumatic…try to disconnect from your mind, turn off the chatter, especially during the grieving process, as it plays tricks on our perception. Always remember, not everything we “think” is true, especially when wounded…but our feelings never betray us…even if you’re feeling crummy, or angry, or sad, or broken…honoring those emotions are part of the healing process, which will set you free!
Posted Jan. 2017 ~ When changing anything in your life, often, the reasons don’t matter, just the results…just do it!
Posted Apr. 2018 ~ What are you coming into agreement with? Are you allowing your fears and doubts to thwart your dreams? Are you accepting the opinions of negative people, “that you can’t possibly”, or “you don’t have that ability” or “you’re too something” or hurling your past mistakes at you to discourage you? What conversations are you allowing in your head or from your inner circle or both? Those thoughts need close examination to build the life you deserve. Stop all that terrifying, discouraging and negative dialogue with a simple, “I don’t come into agreement with that” and watch how fast your life changes. Most of our decisions are based on such inner and external blather, which has no place in your life anymore. Your BEST DAYS are absolutely ahead without this burden. Faith over fear folks, EVERY TIME!
Posted Feb. 2017 ~ Alone time is sacred…it gives us a chance to reconnect to ourselves, regroup and reset…stop the habit of “busy” and endless distractions…they only serve to divert you from your focus, which is YOU…sit with yourself in solitude each day and watch your life shift for the better!
Posted Mar. 2017 ~ Never pay for ANYTHING with your self-respect: nothing and NOBODY is worth that price…never forget the qualities YOU bring to the table ~ and never fear dining alone when they’re not valued or matched.
Posted Feb. 2017 ~ Stop chasing the wrong people and choose yourself…those that belong in your life will never have to be chased, begged, negotiated with or all the other myriad manifestations of toxic, unfulfilling or painful attachments. When you stop chasing the wrong things in your life, and start to choose yourself, your dreams, your needs, your goals, and truly value your worth, the right people will chase you. So leave those selfish, unsupportive, disingenuous, addicted, weak, deceptive, immature or unstable souls alone, and honestly, that’s really what they want. If they refuse to meet your efforts due to their low level mentality, they don’t want to be in your life or any fulfilling life for that matter, as that requires growth, reciprocity, courage, and effort…and by leaving your life, they’re giving you exactly what you need: to be FREE of such exhausting distractions, oppressive and destabilizing energies, so you can focus solely on the prize: which is YOU.
Posted Apr. 2017 ~ No more looking back…you’re not heading in that direction…springtime is all about fresh, new energy and new beginnings in your life…it’s time my brave souls…it’s time to LOVE again…
Posted Jan. 2017 ~ For those leaving toxic relationships behind for 2017, there will be a day you’ll feel this…it’s so liberating when those that treated you poorly no longer affect you! A New Year means New Beginnings ~ make this your best year ever!
Posted May 2017 ~ Kick off your week with this intention…see the beauty in everything…starting with YOURSELF…in case you’ve forgotten, you are beautiful and, you are enough!
Posted Feb. 2017 ~ It’s all sooooo messy…life…love…our hair…you know, the good stuff! Embrace all the twists, turns, lessons and imperfections…that’s called being alive!
Posted July 2017 ~ Dignity…no matter the circumstances and, much like honor, you and YOU alone determine your dignity. Dignity ties to your self respect and self esteem and far too many, have far too little. Avoid anyone and any situation that attempts to compromise your standards: the moment they get lowered, the more your self respect and self esteem are diminished. No matter what the situation, whether you are alone, mated, with friends, loved ones or your greatest enemy, only YOU determine your reaction. You are the only one in control of your dignity. Always respond with dignity and honor, for that is the mark of a truly powerful, and, indomitable warrior.
Posted Feb. 2017 ~ Preach it! Rock on with your mad hustle and dope soul folks…you are awesome!
Posted Mar. 2017 ~ Feelings are often transient and sometimes illusory…they can keep us attached to certain dynamics or relationships that aren’t always in our best interest…focus on your unwavering sense of self worth, value and what you deserve instead…see how that doesn’t change the shape of your situation, or decisions.
Posted Dec. 2016 ~ If you want to BE great, ACT GREAT ~ stop asking for permission, explaining yourself or listening to your negative self talk…just do it! It’s YOUR life, live it on YOUR terms. Make this New Year the greatest year ever!
Posted Aug. 2018 ~ For anyone committed to making positive or major life changes and need confirmation you are on the right path: you’ll know the moment everything stops being easy! This ties into my beliefs about the spirits or forces of “undoing” that I reference often. It seems the moment you have made major decisions to live the best life for yourself, cut out the driftwood, try to reach a new level or new goals then BOOM: all the peace stealing, chaos causing, undermining and toxic past energies surface. And usually in concentrated clusters. These energies want to deter you and remain stuck in their sad, little world of despair. This is a good sign when it happens, no matter how annoying, exhausting or distracting. It not only reminds you how far you’ve come, but, also confirms you are absolutely on the right path! Thieves don’t steal from empty houses folks, and low level energies know somethng much better is slated for you. Always remember, there is always an equal and opposite reaction energetically to every thought or movement we make. When these forces appear to thwart you, push right through them, these “demons” only surface when they know you’re about to make your greatest breakthrough!!! As they say, you are closest to your victory when you meet your greatest opposition!!! In the Vodou we have many spiritually powerful techniques to remove these energies even faster, so let us know if we can ever assist you! STAY THE COURSE!
Posted April 2017 ~ Warning shots fired to those who inflict pain, injury or distress in your life…take their energies and use as fuel for your comeback…make yourself leaner, fiercer, disciplined and more focused than ever ~ come back and take what they said you couldn’t have…honor thy divine warrior within and never back down…these setbacks are your comebacks! P.S. those are my famed pink boxing gloves I use in training…haha!
Posted Jan 2018 ~ We often create far more pain for ourselves with this addiction known as “attachment.” We love to impose our perceptions onto others of how “it should be,” how “it’s going to be” or how “I’ll make it be” to the point of self imposed emotional injury. There comes a time in certain relationships you have to simply LET GO…just let go…accept what is happening and see what sticks…you can’t beg anyone to stay, or convince them to want you, or emotionally blackmail them to deal with you; stop all that demeaning nonsense now. Give people space, time, freedom to roam, sort out their issues, with dignity, not desperation. You focus on you and your needs during this time. If it’s meant for you, it will always come back into your life, with both arms open ~ accept nothing less! The truth is, life takes us all on some wild journeys but love, true love, always finds its way home. Free yourself from this monster known as attachment and allow what is to be…you are the prize…never forget that!
Posted May 2019 ~ Sharing my magical rainbow (Ayida-Weddo to us in the Vodou) with all of you tonight and all the promises from spirit it brings…the beautiful calm after the storm, reminding us after the darkness, there is always light and, to trust that after each ending, a beautiful new beginning awaits you…Alafia!
What is it that ignites you? And, does your current life reflect this? If not, you have to keep it moving toward that direction. This is the time to reconnect to what your soul is telling you; take some time to sit still and examine your situation. Does this match how your soul feels? Quiet the mind, without your narratives, the story you tell yourself, without the fears, without the comfortable familiar, without others’ expectations playing in your head, or any other distractions you’ve cultivated to avoid the numbness and listen to your soul. Create the space for what you need, crave and dream. Posted May 2019 ~ Your life changes dramatically when you align with your soul.
Posted May 2017 ~ Let no one break your spirit, you must fight through all those who wish to see you fail…personally, my approach has always been to unwaveringly give them nothing: no tears, no response, no discussion and no satisfaction of seeing you affected by their nonsense. They get nothing. You stand your ground and hold firm to the position you have already won! “I will bend, but I will not bow!” This street art behind the message is from Buenos Aires and just for you!
Posted Feb. 2018 ~ For you on Valentine’s Day…many of us don’t love ourselves enough…we’re always searching for “that person” to do it. As if coming from another person it has more value and somehow, more valid. This is one of the many distorted beliefs found in our disconnected, modern society. That person you’re seeking is right here, in your mirror. Love YOU more…fall in love with everything that is amazing, beautiful and glorious about that person. All that love you so freely give to others? GIve it to yourself. Happy Valentine’s Day to the loves of my life, that make my day, everyday, which is all of you! Much love!
Posted July 2017 ~ A simple Sumi-e painting I did during my sunrise morning meditation/prayer time today…my mind was filled with noise, chatter and rumination…so I felt I needed emptiness, space, peace, quiet…so I painted some, the best I could do, using some new sky blue Sumi-e ink…and it reminded me of something I read not to long ago…and from that point on, it’s been such a peaceful day…in hopes this brings you a little peace today too.
Posted Feb. 2017 ~ Awareness is the greatest agent of change! For many, the recent Lunar Eclipse has illuminated the areas in our lives shrouded in deception, denial, addictions and other deep, unresolved, negative issues. Once spirit has exposed a serious misalignment, whether it be about ourselves or the hidden truths about someone you love, it can no longer be denied. There is no un-ringing that bell. There is no “drinking it away,” “ignoring it,” “escaping it,” “not wanting to deal with it,” “compartmentalizing it,” “wearing masks,” or “pretending” it does not exist. While hard, painful and heartbreaking, accepting any truth revealed is the ONLY way one heals and releases such crippling energies in their lives. It forces you to confront and heal from the wounds within you, which is drawing such harmful, hurtful or negative aspects. You STOP attracting certain people or repetitive scenarios once you heal those parts of you. None of which can be done by pretending….honor your soul, embrace the awareness and surrender to the truth, it will set you free! You are worth it, more than worth it!
