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Feng Shui and Vital Design
September 10, 2016
Rancho La Puerta, Tecate, Mexico, Baja California
At varying times during the week of September 10-17 presenters at Rancho La Puerta will offer lectures and workshops, including William Spear whose topic is Intuitive Feng Shui®. Feng Shui is more than just an art of placement: it is the deep, ancient understanding of our outer and inner environment. This body of knowledge rests on common sense and awareness of the invisible life force that permeates all consciousness and matter — from the microcosm of cellular organisms to the macrocosm of constellations. The talks review the origins and applications of Feng Shui in everyday life and include practical recommendations that result in positive changes. Some of the content will cover:
The first, opening talk reviews the origins of feng shui and applications in everyday life with practical recommendations for everyone.
Feng Shui & Vital Design (45 Minutes)
Intuitive Feng Shui ® is more than the art of placement: it is the deep, ancient understanding of our outer & inner environment. This body of knowledge rests on common sense and awareness of “chi” — the invisible life force that permeates consciousness and matter — from the microcosm of cellular organisms to the macrocosm of constellations.Feng Shui & Health (45 Minutes)
Intuitive Feng Shui ® encompasses a substantive exploration of the fundamental nature of body and mind. Since both health and disease are mirrored in environments, each aspect of our dwellings supports or diminishes vitality and well-being. Beyond wind chimes and water fountains, learn what you can do to make a difference in your own life and immediate environment through an understanding of feng shui as it relates to health; specific conditions will be discussed.Feng Shui: the Inner World (1 hour)
The final talk is an in-depth journey through the inner world of the bagua – the rich, symbolic construct of consciousness employed in Intuitive Feng Shui ®. By carefully examining each area’s psychological meaning, participants will discover ways to achieve harmony in their own lives by uncovering what is necessary to remove obstructions as well as any harmful, fixed patterns of behavior. The result reveals a grand, unified whole — and a luminous path to love, light and inner peace.
Joan Spear will also be leading two workshops: Community Singing and Circle Singing.
Rancho La Puerta was created in 1940 as the world’s first destination fitness resort and spa in a sheltered valley only 45 miles southeast of San Diego, California (an hour’s drive). It is surrounded by 3,000 acres of landscaped gardens, an organic farm, swimming pools, and cozy casitas all watched over by mystical Mt. Kuchumaa. The weather at this resort is always spectacular–warm and dry–so every week is the perfect week to visit.
For more information about Rancho la Puerta and this feng shui program, please contact the spa directly. From the US: +1 800-443-7565, Worldwide: +1 858-764-5500, reservations@rancholapuerta.com
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Stress, Distress & Trauma: Resilience Training for Parents and Caregivers
November 14, 2015
To be determined, Hartford, Hartford
Help Children Cope with Stressful Times
This training consists of 2 weekends. When registering, you are committing to the full 32-hour course:
Sat Nov 14: 9 am – 6 pm
Sun Nov 15: 9 am – 6 pm
Sat Nov 21: 9 am – 6 pm
Sun Nov 22: 9 am – 6 pmWhen First Responders depart after the initial Emergency Phase of a disaster, who’s there to help children overcome the post traumatic stress that can emerge in the weeks that follow? Once first responders have left, the task of Second Response is to bring forth healing and to build resilience.
Second Response, an initiative of the non-profit Fortunate Blessings Foundation, provides easily implemented, effective mental health interventions in disaster relief that significantly reduce the effects of post-traumatic stress.
Second Response is offering a 32-hour program to train volunteers to conduct the signature “PLAYshops” of Second Response: non-verbal, fun-filled, body-centered exercises that engage the body and mind, and help children safely release the stress and anxiety pent up after a traumatic event. Extensive resilience-building exercises are also introduced and practiced as a complement to the methodologies learned in the PLAYshop session. The neuroscience behind resilience training will be further presented in lecture and discussion format.
Since this is a highly experiential program, please wear comfortable shoes and clothing and be prepared to move. Individuals with mobility challenges are welcome to attend and will be accommodated as best as possible.
Prerequisite: PLAYshop Training
The program will be facilitated by William Spear; Jonah Spear, REMT; Martha Hackett, M.D.; Laurie Leitch, Ph.D.; Pippi Kessler, M.A.; and Ellen Goldsmith, M.S.O.M, L.Ac.
COST: $495 per participant. This covers the full 32-hour training which takes place over 2 weekends. Participants must attend the November 14-15 session in order to participate in the November 21-22 session.
– Financial consideration for CERT, MRC, EMT’s and First Responders.
– A limited number of partial scholarships are available through Second Response.
Please REGISTER in advance:
– online: Event Registration
– Phone +1 (860) 567-8801
– Email: info@secondresponse.org -
PLAYshop Training
October 17, 2015
Ortus Learning and Events Centre, 82-96 Grove Lane, Camberwell, London SE5 8SN
Help Children Cope with Stressful TimesWhen disaster strikes, SECOND RESPONSE works directly with affected children to mitigate the effects of post traumatic stress before PTS becomes the devastating disorder known as PTSD. Play defeats trauma by harmlessly releasing repressed emotions and with them stored hormones, restoring the physiology of the body to stability and balance and children to joyfulness and trust.
The safe, healthy development of children around the world continues to be threatened by natural disasters, political violence, pandemics, immigration issues and other adversities that can have life-altering consequences for individuals, families and the future of all societies. Tens of millions of children each year are exposed to disasters and conflicts and many are displaced as a result.
This unique program has two goals: the first aim is to prevent and reduce children’s post-traumatic stress-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, somatic complaints, functional impairment, separation anxiety and generalized anxiety – all of which are common in children who have experienced trauma; the second is to build capacity on the ground so that future events can be met with similar, effective responses by local caregivers – that’s us! at Western MA Medical Reserve Corps.
Since this is a highly experiential program, please wear comfortable shoes and clothing and be prepared to move. Individuals with mobility challenges are welcome to attend and will be accommodated as best as possible.
Program conducted by William Spear and Jonah Spear, REMT.
COST: 40 GPB per participant
Please REGISTER in advance:
– online: Event Registration
– or with Karla Walter +44 (0) 7482 209053 kjwalter@understandingyourhealth.com
– info@secondresponse.org +1 860-567-8801
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PLAYshop Training
October 4, 2015
Education Connection, 355 Goshen Rd (Route 63), Litchfield
Help Children Cope with Stressful TimesWhen First Responders leave after the initial Emergency Phase of a disaster, who’s there to help children overcome the post traumatic stress that can emerge in the weeks that follow? Once the First Responders have left, the task of Second Response is to bring forth healing and to build resilience
Second Response is an initiative of the social service, non-profit Fortunate Blessings Foundation. This 4-hour training guides volunteers to conduct non-verbal, highly effective and fun “PLAYshops” that help reduce the incidences of PTSD.
Since this is a highly experiential program, please wear comfortable shoes and clothing and be prepared to move. Individuals with mobility challenges are welcome to attend and will be accommodated as best as possible.
This program will be conducted by William Spear and Jonah Spear, REMT.
COST:
– No charge for CERT members, Medical Reserve Corps members or Region 5 Emergency Services Personnel
– $20 for the general public
Please REGISTER in advance:
– online: Event Registration
– Phone (860) 567-8801
– Email: info@secondresponse.org
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PLAYshop Training
October 3, 2015
Stockbridge Town Hall, 50 Main St, Stockbridge
Help Children Cope with Stressful Times
When disaster strikes, SECOND RESPONSE works directly with affected children to mitigate the effects of post traumatic stress before PTS becomes the devastating disorder known as PTSD. Play defeats trauma by harmlessly releasing repressed emotions and with them stored hormones, restoring the physiology of the body to stability and balance and children to joyfulness and trust.
The safe, healthy development of children around the world continues to be threatened by natural disasters, political violence, pandemics, immigration issues and other adversities that can have life-altering consequences for individuals, families and the future of all societies. Tens of millions of children each year are exposed to disasters and conflicts and many are displaced as a result.
This unique program has two goals: the first aim is to prevent and reduce children’s post-traumatic stress-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, somatic complaints, functional impairment, separation anxiety and generalized anxiety – all of which are common in children who have experienced trauma; the second is to build capacity on the ground so that future events can be met with similar, effective responses by local caregivers – that’s us! at Western MA Medical Reserve Corps.
Since this is a highly experiential program, please wear comfortable shoes and clothing and be prepared to move. Individuals with mobility challenges are welcome to attend and will be accommodated as best as possible.
Program conducted by William Spear and Jonah Spear, REMT.
COST:
– No charge for CERT members, Medical Reserve Corps members or Region 5 Emergency Services Personnel
– $20 for the general public
Please REGISTER in advance:
– online: Eventbrite
For more information, please contact:
Corinne McKeown, Western MA Medical Reserve Corps (WMMRC)
413-539-4115 cmckeown@wmmrc.org
Visit www.WMMRC.org to learn about the organization and to join the Medical Reserve Corps in your area.
or info@secondresponse.org 860-567-8801 www.secondresponse.org
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PLAYshop Training
September 26, 2015
Tibet House, 22 W 15 St, New York
Help Children Cope with Stressful TimesThis training will take place from 9 am to Noon for the morning session and resume at 2 pm for the afternoon session which ends at 5 pm.
You may attend the entire day or just the morning session.
When First Responders leave after the initial Emergency Phase of a disaster, who’s there to help children overcome the post traumatic stress that can emerge in the weeks that follow? The task of Second Response is to bring forth healing and to build resilience.
Second Response is an initiative of the social service, non-profit Fortunate Blessings Foundation. This training helps educators, parents, counselors, humanitarian aid workers and volunteers deepen their understanding of trauma and cultivate strategies for resilience to conduct non-verbal, highly effective and fun “PLAYshops” that help reduce the incidences of PTSD. This training also includes skills for self-regulation and research-based mindfulness practices.
Since this is a highly experiential program, please wear comfortable shoes and clothing and be prepared to move. Individuals with mobility challenges are welcome to attend and will be accommodated as best as possible.
The program will be conducted by William Spear and Jonah Spear, REMT in collaboration with Gaea Logan, LPC-S, CGP and Gina de la Chesnaye, MFA, RCYT of the International Center for Mental Health and Human Rights based in Austin, Texas.
COSTS:
– No charge for Connecticut CERT and Medical Reserve Corps members
– $108 for the general public for the full day
– $54 for the morning session
Please REGISTER in advance:
– online: www.secondresponse.org/form
– Phone +1 (860) 567-8801
– Email: info@secondresponse.org
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Free Second Response Presentation
June 26, 2015
Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Rd (Route 202), Litchfield, Connecticut
When first responders leave after the initial emergency phase of a disaster or traumatic event, stricken communities are often not adequately prepared to help children overcome the Post Traumatic Stress that emerges in the weeks that follow. Innate, natural resilience makes it possible for most children to recover from a traumatic event with simple loving presence and emotional support; however, children also benefit from physical exercises that gently release repressed emotions through participation in fun-filled, expressive games.
A free presentation for the general public about this work and the efforts underway in Nepal to help children traumatized by the recent earthquakes will take place at the Litchfield Community Center on Friday, June 26th at 7:30 pm. Learn about the efforts of the unique global disaster relief organization – Second Response, an initiative of the secular, non-profit Fortunate Blessings Foundation headquartered right next-door to the Litchfield Community Center. Second Response board chair, Martha Hackett, MD, with Executive Director, William Spear, will lead the presentation giving the latest reports from the Second Response team in Nepal, allowing time for questions and discussion.
The primary methodology employed is known as PLAYshops, body-centered, non-verbal, movement-based exercises that reduce and prevent post-trauma symptomatology. Second Response teams train parents, teachers, medical personnel, social workers and caregivers of all types in affected disaster areas to exponentially expand into communities and reach as many children as possible. Since 2011, team members have provided courses in the US through Homeland Security’s FEMA’s Community Emergency Response Training Program.
“We see remarkable changes in children with whom we work. As a result, PTSD has been significantly minimized in our participating groups, freeing children from potential lifelong burdens of complex psychosomatic issues. This approach creates greater resilience and protects the vitality of their communities,” explains Second Response founder, William Spear.
A 3:40-minute video at www.secondresponse.org tells the story.
For more information, write info@fortunateblessings.org or call +1-860-567-8801
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Second Response Cocktail Reception
May 11, 2015
Post Oak at Woodway, 99 North Post Oak Lane, Houston, TX 77024
Monday, May 11, 2015
You are cordially invited to attend a cocktail reception to learn about the Second Response program that reduces and prevents the incidence of PTSD in children and communities following natural disasters. Since 2004, Second Response trauma teams have reached more than 100,000 children in 6 countries.
William and Jonah Spear will speak about the upcoming mission to go help children in Nepal.
Kindly RSVP by calling +1 (860)-567-8801
or email us at register@secondresponse.orgOur 3:39 minute video provides the Second Response history and explains the mission www.secondresponse.org
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Second Response PLAYshop Training
April 18, 2015
Education Connection, 355 Goshen Rd (Rte 63), Litchfield, CT 06759
Help children cope with stressful times….
When first responders leave after the initial emergency phase of a disaster or traumatic event, who’s there to help children overcome the Post Traumatic Stress that emerges in the weeks that follow?
Second Response is an initiative of Litchfield’s social service, non-profit Fortunate Blessings Foundation. This 4-hour training guides volunteers to conduct non-verbal, carefully designed “PLAYshops” that can reduce the incidences of PTSD which in turn helps to build resilient communities.
Since this is a highly experiential program, please wear comfortable shoes and clothing and be prepared to move. Bring water, too. Individuals with mobility challenges are welcome to attend and can be accommodated as needed.
Program conducted by William Spear and Jonah Spear, REMT
– $20 for the general public
– No charge for CERT members, Medical Reserve Corps members and Region 5 Emergency Services PersonnelPlease SIGN UP in advance by contacting:
Second Response/Fortunate Blessings Foundation
register@secondresponse.org
Telephone 860-567-8801
www.secondresponse.orgVENUE: Education Connection’s “Community Room” (Room 121)
355 Goshen Rd (Route 63), Litchfield, CT 06759
(1.5 miles north of the Litchfield Green)
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Feng Shui and Vital Design
December 6, 2014
Rancho La Puerta, Tecate, Mexico, Baja California
At varying times during the week of December 6-12 presenters at Rancho La Puerta will offer lectures and workshops, including William Spear whose topic is Intuitive Feng Shui®. Feng Shui is more than just an art of placement: it is the deep, ancient understanding of our outer and inner environment. This body of knowledge rests on common sense and awareness of the invisible life force that permeates all consciousness and matter — from the microcosm of cellular organisms to the macrocosm of constellations. The talks review the origins and applications of Feng Shui in everyday life and include practical recommendations that result in positive changes. Some of the content will cover:
The first, opening talk reviews the origins of feng shui and applications in everyday life with practical recommendations for everyone.
Feng Shui & Vital Design (45 Minutes)
Intuitive Feng Shui ® is more than the art of placement: it is the deep, ancient understanding of our outer & inner environment. This body of knowledge rests on common sense and awareness of “chi” — the invisible life force that permeates consciousness and matter — from the microcosm of cellular organisms to the macrocosm of constellations.Feng Shui & Health (45 Minutes)
Intuitive Feng Shui ® encompasses a substantive exploration of the fundamental nature of body and mind. Since both health and disease are mirrored in environments, each aspect of our dwellings supports or diminishes vitality and well-being. Beyond wind chimes and water fountains, learn what you can do to make a difference in your own life and immediate environment through an understanding of feng shui as it relates to health; specific conditions will be discussed.Feng Shui: the Inner World (1 hour)
The final talk is an in-depth journey through the inner world of the bagua – the rich, symbolic construct of consciousness employed in Intuitive Feng Shui ®. By carefully examining each area’s psychological meaning, participants will discover ways to achieve harmony in their own lives by uncovering what is necessary to remove obstructions as well as any harmful, fixed patterns of behavior. The result reveals a grand, unified whole — and a luminous path to love, light and inner peace.
The other presenters and topics are expected to be:
Tai Chi and Qigong – Cari Shurman
The Healing Power of our Stories – Joel Ben Izzy
Concert: Martha Aarons on flute, Lev Polyakin on violin, Margarita Shevchenko on pianoRancho La Puerta was created in 1940 as the world’s first destination fitness resort and spa in a sheltered valley only 45 miles southeast of San Diego, California (an hour’s drive). It is surrounded by 3,000 acres of landscaped gardens, an organic farm, swimming pools, and cozy casitas all watched over by mystical Mt. Kuchumaa. The weather at this resort is always spectacular–warm and dry–so every week is the perfect week to visit.
For more information about Rancho la Puerta and this feng shui program, please contact the spa directly. From the US: +1 800-443-7565, Worldwide: +1 858-764-5500, reservations@rancholapuerta.com
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Disaster, Mitigation, Preparedness, Response and Sustainable Reconstruction
May 8, 2014
Univ of Massachusetts Boston, 100 Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA 02125
2014 International Conference:
Disaster Mitigation, Preparedness, Response and Sustainable Reconstruction
The Role of Architectural, Planning, and Engineering EducationThis 2-day event is open to all and organized by the:
– Center for Rebuilding Sustainable Communities after Disasters of Univ. of Mass. Boston (CRSCAD)
– Boston Architectural College
– School of Architecture, Art and Historic Preservation of Roger Williams Univ., Rhode Island
During the morning and afternoon programs, there will be numerous presentations and panel discussions around the theme of the session. William Spear is a presenter during Session 3 on Friday, May 9th from 8 am to 12:30 pm entitled Response and Recovery Effort. He will also be a panelist during Session 3A during the same morning.
Description of Spear’s topic:
Preventing PTSD in Children with Body-Centered Exercises after Natural Disasters
After a natural disaster, approximately 90% of children will readjust to normalcy as a result of their innate resilience, family, and community support and, if needed, a variety of mental health interventions. The remaining 10% of children will experience PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and other pathologies.
William Spear, president and co-founder of the Fortunate Blessings Foundation and its disaster response initiative, Second Response, shifts the PTSD treatment paradigm in conjunction with mental health teams in disaster stricken communities. Caregivers are trained in body-centered, effective interventions, which significantly reduce PTSD thereby preventing what was previously believed to be unavoidable. Following decades of experience in disaster response worldwide, Second Response’s effective protocols, called PLAYshops, have reached more than 100,000 children from culturally diverse populations. While the children experience pure fun, in actuality, PLAYshops guide them through a series of body-centered, carefully crafted, non-verbal exercises that help children release grief, anger, fear, and return them to joy, safety, and homeostasis.
The Second Response initiative is now proactively training communities through programs for first responders, emergency managers, mental health providers, community groups and CERT members (Community Emergency Response Teams). This presentation discusses the successful implementation of this methodology in disaster-stricken communities and proposes how it should become a collaborative complement to disaster preparedness and response.
William Spear is a life-long teacher whose clarity, humor and perceptiveness inspire thousands of families facing serious illness. In 1967, recognizing the level of mistrust in the mainstream delivery model and the abundance of runaways, he founded one of the first suicide prevention hotlines and free clinics in the Midwest US. He draws from nearly four decades of work in mental health, crisis counseling, disaster response and in-depth training with the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Center. William’s “ground-zero experience” on nearly every continent following earthquakes, tsunamis, cyclones, floods, hurricanes and nuclear disasters gives him unique insight into the special needs of children. He works regularly with mental health professionals who seek holistic strategies to overcome trauma, and currently teaches the psychological module of the CERT training throughout Connecticut. He is the father of three grown sons.
For details about the Conference, directions and fee schedule, please visit this link:
Disaster Mitigation, Preparedness, Response and Sustainable Reconstruction
The full conference fee is $120 although the event is free for U.S. government employees, students, and members of faith-based organizations.
VENUE Location: Campus Center Ballroom, Univ. of Mass, 100 Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA 02125. +1 617-287-5300
To register and to reach the Conference organizers, please email: crscad@umb.edu or call +1 617-287-7112
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BIG Day of Giving – Noon to Noon
May 6, 2014
Connecticut Community Foundation, 43 Field St, Waterbury, CT 06702
Your contribution made during the 24-hour period from NOON May 6 to NOON May 7 (local New York City time) helps our team at the Fortunate Blessings Foundation win “bonus” matching funds and grant prizes donated and secured by the Connecticut Community Foundation of Waterbury Connecticut as part of a nationwide day of giving honoring the 100th Anniversary of Community Foundations.
There’s never been a better time to show your support for the Second Response initiative of the Fortunate Blessings Foundation.
TO DONATE, click on this link anytime between Noon May 6 to Noon May 7 (local New York City time):
www.givelocalccf.org#npo/fortunate-blessings-foundation-second-response
Thank you for all you do to support our work to benefit the well-being of children!
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Near & Far Aid Charity House Tour
May 2, 2014
Near & Far Aid, Southport, CT 06890-0717, PO Box 717
NEAR & FAR AID is an all-volunteer fundraising and fund-granting organization dedicated to eliminating the causes and effects of poverty in Fairfield County. They accomplish their mission by identifying and funding programs that provide life’s most basic necessities to those who seek to achieve lasting change for families at risk, adults in crisis, homelessness, elderly care and others.
Continuing the rich tradition of its celebrated annual Designer House Tour, Near & Far Aid proudly announces the 2014 Design House Tour, featuring an exclusive tour of five extraordinary homes in the prominent enclaves of Fairfield, Southport and Westport, Connecticut. Each home was professionally decorated by an acclaimed interior designer.
Designer House Tour: Friday, May 2, 2014 from 10 am to 4 pm. Tickets: $60 in advance; $75 day of tour
The day starts with a pre-tour Designer Breakfast ($65) from 9:15 to 10:45 am at the Patterson Club in Fairfield featuring a presentation by the renowned interior designer, Kathy M. Ireland. After the tour, the day’s events culminate with the Toast of the Tour cocktail reception ($100) featuring a luxury car show from 6:30 to 8:30 pm
For the home in Fairfield on Long Island Sound, William Spear provided a full range of feng shui services from the demolition of the old dilapidated house on the property, to selecting the placement for the new structure on the land, advising the layout and features to the family, their architect and landscape architect. William and designer, Debra Blair, interfaced to finesse the interior decorating. On the day of the tour, William and Debra will be present for a few hours in the home to greet visitors and answer questions.
To reserve tickets, contact: Near & Far Aid, info@nearandfaraid.org
Near & Far Aid, PO Box 717, Southport, CT 06890-0717, (203) 259-1710
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Evaluating Modalities to Enhance Cancer Treatment Outcomes
April 29, 2014
The Reuner Cancer Support House, 80 Mary’s Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401
The Miso Happy Cooking Club welcomes William Spear who will discuss recurring concerns of those dealing with a cancer diagnosis. Can a marriage between western approaches to cancer treatment and the integration of other practices including diet succeed? How do you neutralize fear when considering therapies offered by conventional medicine?
William Spear is an internationally recognized macrobiotic counselor with thorough knowledge of the field of holistic, integrative health practices spanning more than forty years. He trained with Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and the Tibetan lama Sogyal Rinpoche. Spear is the author of Feng Shui Made Easy, a contributor to Be the Change: How Meditation Can Transform You and the World, and directs the Fortunate Blessings Foundation, a non-faith-based not-for-profit in Connecticut that helps children recover from trauma after natural disasters.
In his role as a senior Macrobiotic Counselor, William has guided many people around the globe with serious illness including cancer. He is a lifelong teacher whose clarity, insight and sense of humor are inspirational. Spear’s talk will guide those at the difficult stage of diagnosis and beyond. Reducing fear and encouraging empowerment to overcome illness and a return to health for a renewed, optimistic life is a goal of this lecture.
Please register on or before Friday, April 25th by e-mailing Doris Blaha at Doris.blaha@hahv.org or call 845 339-2071. There is no cost for this program but, please, preregister since space is limited.
The Herbert H. & Sophia P. Reuner Cancer Support House is part of the HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley. The lecture will take place in this small house across from the HealthAlliance Mary’s Campus formerly known as The Benedictine Hospital. The name of the building across from the OSP House (Oncology Support Program) is the Administrative Services Building. Parking lots nearby can be found on the corner of Mary’s Avenue and Webster Avenue. Unless signs indicate otherwise, all open spots are available. Parking is free. These lots are adjacent to the Administrative Services Building on Webster Avenue.
The HealthAlliance of the Hudson Valley’s Oncology Support Program is a team of compassionate professionals and volunteers dedicated to offering comprehensive support services, creative programming, and education to those affected by cancer. As a bridge between HealthAlliance and the community, the program offers a nurturing environment at the Herbert H. and Sophia P. Reuner Cancer Support House to promote wellness and celebrate the fullness of life!
The Miso Happy Cooking Club, developed by Kathy Sheldon, RN, in conjunction with the Oncology Support Program, formed in 2005 for the purpose of supporting healing and recovery through healthy eating and lifestyle practices. The principles of Macrobiotics, which embrace whole foods, locally grown, and preferably organic, are utilized. The club meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 10:30 am to 1 pm. Classes are not offered during July and August. Join the Oncology Support Program mailing list by emailing doris.blaha@hahv.org or call (845) 339-2071 to receive information about classes and special events.
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Changing the Ch’i in Your Life
March 30, 2014
Center for Conscious Living at Nassau Hall, 1864 Muttontown Rd, Syosset, NY 11791
Luminous Spaces MASTER Series™
Expanding Earth Consciousness
The Luminous Spaces MASTER Series™ is an educational platform to expand Gaia consciousness. The March 30th workshop presented by William Spear launches the Series. Future events will cover topics such as green living, biophilic design, eco-psychology, architecture, feng shui, landscape design and other life-enhancing subjects to inspire change and impact the greater good. For the first event, Luminous Spaces is hosting William Spear, a long-time and experienced international educator, consultant and author of Feng Shui Made Easy.
In this full day presentation of Changing the Ch’i in Your Life, Spear will expand beyond linear layouts, “Do’s and Don’ts,” wind chimes and water fountains, to offer a deeper understanding of the ENERGETICS of interior and exterior spaces as well as our human nature.
Learn:
- How your individual perspective about your environment is more powerful than the color of your front door or where you place a plant or wind chime.
- How the outer world (that others can easily change) is reflected in the inner world of consciousness — over which you have ultimate control.
- How to determine which areas of your home or office correspond with specific issues from your past as well as how to balance and clear obstacles that may still remain.
- Specific ways in which each of the eight bagua areas of your environment are inextricably linked to all the others and how harmony can be achieved by addressing “hidden” corresponding areas often overlooked as the source of difficulty.
- How proactive feng shui differs from reactive feng shui and new, empowering approaches to prevent problems from arising rather than waiting for them to occur.
- Unique yet practical ways to increase powers of manifesting what you want in your life such as wealth, improved relationships, and specific health issues.
Examining the ancient origins of what has become known as feng shui, we find cultures that were in direct relationship with nature in everyday life. The collective consciousness was one in which eight symbolic constructs of the bagua (the feng shui grid that helps a person assess the energies of a space) reveal a certain perspective of the world. By carefully examining the deeper meaning, the inner nature and the characteristics of each house (section) of the bagua, we can discover ways to change fixed patterns of behavior, remove obstructions in our thinking and achieve a sense of harmony in our being, our homes, our workplaces and our communities. This is the basis of Intuitive Feng Shui®, a glimpse of a grand, unified whole and a luminous path to love, light and inner peace.
Feng Shui, commonly considered an art of placement and a synonym for interior decorating, is, according to William Spear really “the study of infinity – the study of consciousness outside of the structures of time and space. We choose to live inside those structures, but the more we can incorporate the wisdom of the bigger picture, the more in touch with life we will be.” While bed and desk locations are key elements to “external” feng shui, it is the architecture of consciousness that distinguishes placements that endure the test of time. Working from the inside out is a powerful process of clearing and a premise of Intuitive Feng Shui®, the registered service mark of William Spear.
Workshop fee: $147
Lunch is optional. You may bring your own or reserve a lunch of wraps (vegetarian available), assorted salads, beverages and dessert for $20. You MUST RESERVE your lunch in advance when registering. Caffeinated beverages will not be served.
Location Information: Nassau Hall, Muttontown Preserve is located off Route 106 in Muttontown, just north of Jericho (Exit 41 on the LIE). By train, take the LIRR to the Syosset train station (Huntington Branch), about 2 miles west on Muttontown Road. GPS and Google may show Muttontown instead of Syosset.
Questions? Email maureen@luminous-spaces.com or phone Luminous Spaces at 631-513-0059
Link to Luminous-Spaces website
Like to Luminous-Spaces on Facebook
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Second Response PLAYshop Training
January 11, 2014
Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center, 229 East Litchfield Road, Litchfield, Connecticut 06759
Help Children Cope with Stressful Times
Program conducted by William Spear and Jonah Spear
When first responders leave after the initial Emergency Phase of a disaster, who’s there to help children overcome the Post Traumatic Stress that emerges in the weeks that follow?
Second Response is an initiative of Litchfield’s Fortunate Blessings Foundation. It trains volunteers to address the immediate and long-term emotional and psychological health of children by conducting non-verbal, carefully designed “PLAYshops” that significantly reduce the incidences of PTSD and help to build resilient communities.
Since this is mostly an experiential program, wear comfortable shoes and clothes to be prepared to move.
Schedule: 1 to 5 pm with a break for refreshments
$35 fee includes refreshments
(Non-refundable $15 deposit)Follow this link to register with the Wisdom House on-line: Wisdom House Registration or email info@wisdomhouse.org or call Tel +1-860-567-3163, Fax +1-860-567-3166. General information about the Wisdom House and its many activities: www.wisdomhouse.org
If you are traveling from afar and would like to have room and board at the Wisdom House, please inquire directly with the Wisdom House.
Should you have questions regarding the program, feel free to contact us directly at Fortunate Blessings Foundation
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Elements of Wellness Natural Health Conference
November 9, 2013
Cross Campus, 820 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90405
For an hour during this one-day event, William Spear will present:
Five Vital Elements of Recovery
Whether addressing a minor skin condition or a life-threatening illness, five elements are present in nearly every recovery from illness. Many macrobiotic practitioners adhere strictly to certain dietary approaches believing fully that doing so gives them the best chance. What factors are present that distinguishes those who recover from those whose health seems to decline even with the best diet?
This engaging presentation reveals what you need to know for your own health, that of your family, friends and clients, and imparts insights drawn from 40 years of broad international macrobiotic experience. The result goes well beyond impersonal prescriptions aimed only at the frequency of special dishes and how much protein to eat. The focus of this talk — the essentials of living the “great life” – will surely change you in wonderful ways
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$105 for the full day Conference includes:
– 6 natural health classes
– a tasty organic, plant-based, gluten-free lunch
– a delicious afternoon dessert
– beverages throughout the dayRegister now and save: $90 early registration rate until November 1st.
For details and to register, go to http://www.eowconference.com
To contact the Conference organizers:
Tel 818-512-9195
cooking4life@gmail.comLike the organizers on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/7thelementservices?fref=ts
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Macrobiotic and feng shui consultations can be arranged for the time William will be in Los Angeles:
– a macrobiotic consultation lasts 1 to 1.5 hours
– a feng shui consultation requires an in-person visit to the property as well as a private meeting. Duration depends on scope of work, acreage and square footage of the structure(s), and the number of people involved.To schedule your consultation, please call the Connecticut office of William (860-567-2535) or email w@williamspear.com in advance of the Conference.
William says about a macrobiotic consultation:
“The purpose of a macrobiotic consultation is to help individuals and families make meaningful, healthful choices to reshape their lives, including both their physical and their emotional health. Making macrobiotic choices alters the internal landscape, reorders the self and allows lasting healing to occur. As your macrobiotic counselor, I evaluate your answers to a questionnaire you fill out prior to your visit and, during a personal visit, I ask other questions pertinent to your integrative health needs. I make both broad and specific dietary, lifestyle, and exercise suggestions to overcome sickness and pursue preventive measures to develop more vibrant, enduring health and well-being. No personal question or concern on your part is taboo or surprising; I have guided thousands of people from all walks of life, greeting each with compassion and expertise. I am versed in standard medical approaches to serious illness and work closely with many physicians in various specialties to assure maximum benefit and support.”
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6th Annual Connecticut Citizen Corps Council Conference
September 4, 2013
Water’s Edge Resort and Spa, 1525 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, CT 06498
THE CITIZEN RESPONDER – A PROVEN FORCE MULTIPLIER
On Wed, Sept 4th, after Governor Malloy opens the conference,
the keynote speaker, William Spear will talkfrom 9 to 10:15 am on BUILDING COMMUNITY RESILIENCE.
William is the creator of the Second Response initiative and CEO of Fortunate Blessings Foundation in Litchfield, Connecticut. He will describe how CERT and Medical Reserve Corps units can build resilience in interacting with children during disasters. His 20+ years of experience includes deployments to Sri Lanka, Japan, Russia, Indonesia, Croatia and Hurricane Sandy help us focus our skills in dealing with trauma in children.
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The Citizen Corps Conference is designed for CERT members (Community Emergency Response Team), Medical Reserve Corps members, emergency managers, fire and police officials, public health officials, Mayors, First Selectmen, City Managers, and any citizen with an interest in supporting or assisting in major disasters in Connecticut. Citizen Corps members and public officials from other states are also invited.
The program will be two full days of dynamic speakers and presentations centered around various Citizen Corps Programs and emphasizing Community Emergency Response Team activities. Presentations will include Hurricane Sandy, Storm Nemo, and electrical power outage activities. Also, learn how to organize and start a CERT team in your municipality or how to volunteer to be an active responder. Program guidance and administration issues will be presented and the actual monthly Statewide Citizen Corps Council meeting will take place on day two of the conference starting at 2:15 p.m.
The conference will also feature joint meetings of the Medical Reserve Corps and the Connecticut Emergency Management Association
Admittance is free once registered. Online registrations for the conference closed on Aug 21st. A limited number of on-site entries may be available. There will be over 300 attendees. Since lunch tickets are sold out, you will need to make your own meal arrangements.
A block of rooms at the Water’s Edge Resort and Spa priced at $81 each, has been arranged. If you would like to stay overnight, register with the hotel as soon as possible!
To view the comprehensive agenda for the 2 days, please visit: www.crcog.org/homeland_sec/CCC_info.html
Send questions about the conference or Connecticut Citizen Corps programs to: ctcitizencorps@gmail.com
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Kushi Summer Conference
August 1, 2013
Dolce Basking Ridge, 300 North Maple Avenue, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
Healthy Body – Healthy Mind – Your Path to Total Health
Do you have a “passion for life” or “just living”? Do you want to feel happier every day? It all starts with a solid foundation based on a whole foods diet that is the key to our total health. When we get the right balance of high quality foods, physical and mental exercise, we create to perfect inner environment to achieve your Healthy Body and Healthy Mind. Nourishment of the brain sets up the chain reaction, either positively or negatively. If you provide your brain with the right nourishment, exercise, and get plenty of sleep, your brain starts to produce brain chemicals and hormones to make you feel happier and more passionate about life! You will develop a clearer vision, inspiration and energy to explore your future and enjoy your life! The power to change your life is in your hands; let us guide you on your journey of change!
The 2013 Summer Conference will teach you how to make healthy living practical. We know that a whole foods diet is an important foundation for total health. The foods we eat and their preparation directly affect every cell in our body and profoundly impact our body chemistry. Understanding this foundation gives you the ability to focus on the other pieces of the puzzle, physical exercise, mental and spiritual health. Guiding people to find the “fun in life” starting with self appreciation, connecting with loved ones, and experiencing deeper sense of gratitude for life and inner peace.
Only you have the power to change your life; the Kushi Institute givse you the tools to make that change. Creating true health and vitality will inspire you to follow your passion and achieve your personal goals!
On Thursday, August 1, 5 full-day pre-conference workshops are offered.
From Friday, August 2 through Sunday, August 4 many other presentations of varying duration will be given by 32 experts on macrobiotic philosophy, nutrition, health and cuisine.
William Spear will give these 2 lectures:
The Middle Way
A Look Back at Four Decades of Macrobiotic Education
on Friday, August 2nd from 10:45 am to NoonWhen education fails to change with the times, the pace of learning impacts our health. It is a teacher’s job to draw out what is already there, leaving students with principles as well as practices. Introducing new information and techniques may help us learn, but without understanding the philosophy behind what we do, students are left with only a bag full of groceries and utensils and no way to cook a healthy meal. Ultimately, macrobiotic education must empower holistic vision and creativity to make it possible for each student to transform sickness into health and any challenge into freedom.
The Inner Bagua of Feng Shui
Saturday, August 3rd from 5 to 6:15 pmExamining the ancient origins of what has became known as feng shui, we find cultures that were in direct relationship with nature through their diet and everyday way of life. The collective consciousness was one in which eight symbolic constructs reveal a certain perspective of the world. By carefully examining each one’s deeper meaning, we can discover ways to change fixed patterns of behavior, remove obstructions in our thinking and achieve a sense of harmony. This is the basis of Intuitive Feng Shui®, a glimpse of a grand, unified whole and a luminous path to love, light and inner peace.
Full conference price of $599 ($499 until Feb. 15, 2013) includes all meals and classes. Accommodations are extra. Other rates are available for shorter attendance.
Kushi Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes health through natural diet and lifestyle. The educational center is located in the Berkshire Hills of western Massachusetts. Its mission is to guide individuals and families towards better health through natural foods. Extraordinary health is achievable once you understand the profound way food, our mind and our spirit affects our health. If you are looking to control weight, improve your health, reduce the risks of illness or heal from an illness, Kushi Institute instructors teach you how.
Kushi Institute
Attn: Summer Conference Coordinator
198 Leland Road
Becket, MA 01223Summer Conference telephone 1-609-616-2276
(between 8 am and 3 pm EST) -
Feng Shui Society 20th Anniversary Celebration Conference Weekend
May 18, 2013
Marchmont Conference Room, 19-26 Cartwright Gardens, London WC1H 9EF
In honor of its 20th Anniversary, The Feng Shui Society in London is excited to offer a weekend Conference of Feng Shui lectures on Saturday, 18th May with Howard Choy, Neil Kingham, Karen Kingston, K.B. Lim, Davina Machail, Michael Oon and William Spear.
On Sunday, 19th May, two workshops will be presented by Howard Choy from 10 am until 1 pm, and William Spear from 2 until 5 pm.
William Spear’s Saturday, 18th May lecture at 2 pm:
Feng Shui in the Ancient and Modern World:
Reflections on the Timeless Cosmology of Wind and WaterWith its origins in The Book of Change (The I Ching), feng shui emerged from a greatly different context and perspective than the one in which we live today. What are the implications of focusing on parts of the holistic philosophy behind this vast body of knowledge to symptomatically approach challenges in order to restore a temporary balance? Eager to be seen and acknowledged, has today’s feng shui community omitted vital components of this sacred art and science to make things “easy”, allowing clever marketing and simplistic cures to replace deep study thereby marginalizing an otherwise precious tool that brings health and harmony to our lives? These observations and others could make a significant difference for both new and old students of feng shui in the years ahead. Come, explore, reflect and contribute.
William Spear’s Sunday, 19th May, lecture from 2 – 5pm:
Creating Environments
That Reduce Stress and Attract Good Fortune
The study of feng shui reveals the connection between the inner and outer worlds. The more we open ourselves to the workings of our higher self, the more consciously present we become. Practicing feng shui effectively requires more than applying learned data; it means being a clear, relaxed receiver and channel of energy, in whom “being” is more important than “knowing” or ”doing.”To make this possible, we must make reducing stress a primary goal in our personal self-development. This engaging, interactive workshop examines the process of self-development at various levels as they relate to our homes and our surroundings. Rather than focusing on floor plans, furniture placement or feng shui “cures”, participants will reveal how changing their inner world results in creating spaces that attract good fortune.
William Spear is an internationally recognised educator, consultant and author, whose expertise includes feng shui, the I Ching, personal transformation and trauma relief following natural disasters. He has been teaching and consulting in London since 1976, and in 1993, he served as the first honorary president of the Feng Shui Society. His book Feng Shui Made Easy, first published in 1995, has been translated into thirteen languages. He is founder and president of the non-profit Fortunate Blessings Foundation in the USA.
For full Conference details, nearby accommodations and PayPal registration, please visit: www.fengshuisociety.org.uk/feng-shui-events-and-courses/7-feng-shui-society-conference-18-19-may-2013-london-uk
Conference Location:
Marchmont Conference Room
Hughes Parry Hall
19-26 Cartwright Garden
London WC1H 9EFPrice for 2 days with lunch: £150; FSS Consultants £100
Price for 1 day with lunch: £75; FSS Consultants £50For information:
email: jonathon@fengshuisociety.org.uk or phone +44 (0)20 7419 7828
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Building Resilient Communities After Natural Disasters
April 21, 2013
Javits Center North, 39th Street & 11th Avenue, New York, NY 10011
On Earth Day Weekend, April 19-21, New York Green Festival returns to Javits Center North to celebrate community with the largest, most diverse and most trusted place for learning, shopping, networking and having fun. The Festival will feature favorites, like the organic, vegetarian and vegan food court; the Sierra Club Green Cinema; eco-fashion exhibits; hands-on workshops; live music; an organic beer and wine garden; inspiring keynote presentations and, a nationally renowned Green Marketplace featuring products and services from local, regional and national green and sustainable businesses and organizations.
On Sunday, April 21 from 3 – 3:45 pm on Stage A
WILLIAM SPEAR is honored to present
Building Resilient Communities After Natural Disasters
When first responders leave after a disaster, who’s there to alleviate the many layers of Post Traumatic Stress that show up in the weeks that follow? Second Response volunteers –- trained teams organized by the non-profit Fortunate Blessings Foundation — address the long-term emotional and psychological well-being of children by conducting Playshops that help prevent PTSD and build resilient communities.
A life-long teacher whose clarity, humor and insight inspire thousands of families facing traumatic events, William Spear draws from four decades of experience including training with the Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Center and Sogyal Rinpoche and teaching natural approaches to health and sustainable design. In immediate response to disasters in southeast Asia; central Java, Indonesia; Samoa; Japan and the Northeast US, William and his team trained hundreds of mental health professionals, medical students, doctors, clergy, parents, volunteers and caregivers to mitigate the effects of PTSD in orphaned and traumatized children.
He is the best-selling author of Feng Shui Made Easy, a featured contributor to Be The Change: How Meditation Can Transform You and The World and the upcoming Recovering Original Ability. He is the father of three sons (also actively involved in disaster relief work) and lives in Connecticut where his non-profit, Fortunate Blessings Foundation, sets itself apart as Second Responders to address the long-term emotional and psychological well-being of children.
Presentation LOCATION:
New York Green Festival
Javits Center North
39th Street and 11th Avenue in Manhattan
DirectionsTo attend, exhibit, volunteer, sponsor, please visit:
www.greenfestivals.org
twitter.com/GreenFestival
www.facebook.com/GreenFestivalTICKETS purchased ONLINE:
– $10 DAY Pass includes $5 Green Festival bucks to spend at the event.
– $20 WEEKEND Fast Pass includes $5 Green Festival bucks to spend at the event.
– $32 FESTIVAL FAN WEEKEND PASS includes weekend passes for 2, $10 Green Festival bucks, 2 Cafe/Beer and Wine Drinks, Green Festival bags and a Commemorative Green Festival poster
TICKETS purchased at the DOOR:
– $15 DAY PASS does not include Green Festival bucks.
– $25 WEEKEND FAST PASS includes $5 Green Festival bucks to spend at the event.
– FESTIVAL FAN WEEKEND PASS. This option is not available at the door.
FREE AT DOOR: Youth 18 and under, bicyclists using Clif Bar bike valet, Green America and Global Exchange members
Please come join the festivities.
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Feng Shui and Vital Design
December 1, 2012
Rancho La Puerta, Baja California, Tecate, Mexico
At varying times during the week of December 1-7, seven presenters will offer lectures and workshops, including William Spear whose topic is Intuitive Feng Shui®. Feng Shui is more than just an art of placement: it is the deep, ancient understanding of our outer and inner environment. This body of knowledge rests on common sense and awareness of the invisible life force that permeates all consciousness and matter — from the microcosm of cellular organisms to the macrocosm of constellations. The talks review the origins and applications of Feng Shui in everyday life and include practical recommendations that result in positive changes. Some of the content will cover:
FENG SHUI and HEALTH
Intuitive Feng Shui’s® vast scope encompasses a substantive exploration of the fundamental nature of body and mind. Since both health and disease are mirrored in environments, each aspect of our dwellings supports or diminishes vitality and well-being.
Beyond wind chimes and water fountains, learn what you can do to make a difference in your own life and immediate environment through an understanding of the complementary and underlying harmony that this aspect of fengshui reveals.
FENG SHUI: THE INNER WORLD
Join an in-depth journey through the inner world of the bagua – the rich, symbolic construct of consciousness employed in Intuitive Feng Shui®. By carefully examining each area’s deeper meaning, participants will discover ways to achieve harmony in their own lives by uncovering what is necessary to remove obstructions and change fixed patterns of behavior. The result reveals a grand, unified whole — and a luminous path to love, light and inner peace.
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The other presenters and topics are:
- Yoga is for every BODY | Shayne and River Morgan
- Culinary Experiences at La Cocina Que Canta | Gary Jenanyan
- Tai Chi and Qigong | Cari Shurman
- Folklore and Stories: A Window to the Soul | Rabbi Michael R. Zedek
- A Holiday Ornament and Greeting Card Workshop | Freiman Stoltzfus
- Introduction to Sacred Sound for Meditation and Healing | Diane Mandle
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Rancho La Puerta was created in 1940 as the world’s first destination fitness resort and spa in a sheltered valley only 45 miles southeast of San Diego, California (an hour’s drive). It is surrounded by 3,000 acres of landscaped gardens, an organic farm, swimming pools, and cozy casitas all watched over by mystical Mt. Kuchumaa. The weather at this resort is always spectacular–warm and dry–so every week is the perfect week to visit.
For more information about Rancho la Puerta and this program, please contact the spa directly:
From the US: +1 800-443-7565
Worldwide: +1 858-764-5500
reservations@rancholapuerta.com -
Natural Epicurean Academy
November 1, 2012
Natural Epicurean Academy, 1700 South Lamar Boulevard, Austin, TX 78704
William Spear will teach these 2 classes:
1 – 4 pm, MACROBIOTIC THEORY IV
For registered students of the Professional Chef Program.6 – 9 pm, Public Class, $35
7 HOME REMEDIES YOU CAN MAKE IN YOUR KITCHEN
Using easily accessible ingredients, learn how to make simple, safe and effective home remedies to help relieve the symptoms of a variety of acute and chronic illnesses. An understanding of basic healing principles will help participants to determine how to approach a variety of common illnesses.For information and to register, please contact:
Natural Epicurean Academy
(512) 476-2276
info@naturalepicurean.com
Natural Epicurean AcademyThe Natural Epicurean Academy of Culinary Arts is proud to offer in Austin, Texas and Portland, Oregon a premier plant-based culinary education, one of very few in the country. The Natural Epicurean offers public lectures, webinars and a comprehensive professional chef training program that focuses on the theory and practice of meal planning for plant-based diets. Chefs are trained in the following disciplines:
– Macrobiotic
– Vegetarian
– Vegan
– Ayurvedic
– Raw & Living FoodsThe next professional 900-hour chef-training program begins in Austin in October 2012.
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Los Angeles Macrobiotic Conference
October 13, 2012
Holy Nativity Episcopal Church, 6700 W 83rd Street, Westchester CA 90045
Come participate in a full day (9 am to 8 pm) of Macrobiotic lectures, cooking classes and delicious meals on these beautiful grounds in the heart of Los Angeles. You will have the opportunity to attend five one-and-a-half hour classes and enjoy 2 macrobiotic buffet meals .
The buffet lunch takes place from 12:30 to 1:30 pm and the dinner buffet will be served from 5:15 to 6:15 pm. The meals will be catered by The Seed Restaurant of Eric Lechasseur.
For beginners to advanced practitioners there is a “two track” system with ten classes total to choose from.
William’s lecture is scheduled from 1:45 to 3:15 pm. His topic is:
THE SPIRIT OF MACROBIOTICS: Healing Ourselves with Ancient Traditions and Common Sense
Acknowledging that our daily food is a key component of well-being, we must take into account the spirit and purpose behind dietary recommendations in order to maintain our health over time. Macrobiotics has represented “the great way of life,” reflecting how a wise person could heal naturally and safely; however, for some, macrobiotics became a set of rules resulting in completely the opposite outcome. What happened?
As people begin to consider more holistic approaches, we need to be aware of the many choices within a wide range of possibilities – and find out what works for each individual. Modern science acknowledges and validates the basis of the macrobiotic dietary practice yet it is the spirit behind each individual’s daily practice that might make the real difference – the spirit of inclusion rather than exclusion, flexibility rather than rigidity and the joyful pursuit of our dreams.
TEACHERS
Jeanne Beveridge
David Briscoe
Patrick Grosset
Jessica Porter
William Spear
Sanae Suzuki
and surprise guestsEvent fee: $200
For more information and to register, contact the conference organizers:
Danny Kessler (323) 376-1699
Jeanne Beveridge (818) 512-9195 -
Feng Shui and the Inner Bagua
May 15, 2012
Casa de Luz, Austin, TX 78704, 1701 Toomey Road
Feng shui, commonly considered an art of placement is, according to William Spear “really the study of infinity — the study of consciousness outside of the structures of time and space. We choose to live inside those structures, but the more we can incorporate the wisdom of the bigger picture, the more in touch with life we will be.”
While bed and desk locations are key elements to “external” feng shui, it is the architecture of consciousness — the inner feng shui — that distinguishes placements which endure the test of time. During this lecture, William Spear offers an exploration of the inner nature of feng shui. As each “house” of the bagua is explored, together with the symbolism of the corresponding I Ching trigram, the underlying harmony of our inner life is revealed. We can discover the nature of the connections, and learn what is necessary in our own self-development to remove obstructions and change fixed patterns of behavior.
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William Spear is a highly regarded educator, consultant, and writer on feng shui, vital design, the I Ching, self-development, end-of-life care, and complementary healing arts. He has traveled worldwide consulting and lecturing. He has made extensive television appearances and given radio interviews in the US and abroad. In 1991 and 1992, Spear delivered the most popular lecture on feng shui at the International Interior Design Exposition held in Toronto. In 1993 he served as the first honorary President of the International Feng Shui Society in London.
Spear’s approach to vital design – Intuitive Feng Shui® – is presented in his bestselling book, Feng Shui Made Easy: Designing Your Life With the Ancient Art of Placement. It was first published in 1995 by Harper Collins and translated into 12 languages. It was then reprinted in 2010 by North Atlantic Books. The book was hailed by the New York Times as “the most user-friendly explanation of feng shui for American audiences.” Hugh Pearman, the Architectural Editor of The Sunday Times of London, described Spear as “the Feng Shui man in the West.”
$10 donation at the door
Location:
Casa de Luz, Serena Room
1701 Toomey Road
Austin, TX 78704While in Austin until May 22nd, William Spear is available for private consultations in macrobiotics, feng shui, 9 Star Ki and issues related to personal transformation. For information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us through our website: www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus
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Sex, Intimacy and the 9 Stars
May 1, 2012
Casa de Luz, Austin, TX 78704, 1701 Toomey Road, Serena Room
Using the astrology of the 9 Stars, William Spear outlines how each person develops sexuality in a unique way. An understanding of this beautiful, elegant system provides an invaluable tool for gaining insights into the lives and destinies of ourselves and those with whom we are in relationship, at all levels: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual.
Biologically, males and females are formed by opposite energies in the cosmos — heaven’s force and earth’s force. The deep inner connection between the sexes manifests in terms of this polarity, leading both to opposition and to attraction of a pro-creational or sexual nature. Both men and women have feminine and masculine energies. The complementary energies are in constant interaction within each of us. By learning to recognize, accept and understand them, we come closer to achieving a harmonious integration of our physical, emotional and spiritual natures.
$10 donation at the door
While in Austin until May 18th, William Spear is available for private consultations in macrobiotics, feng shui, 9 Star Ki and issues related to personal transformation. To schedule an appointment, please contact us through our Connect page on this website.
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Will & Judgment
April 24, 2012
Casa de Luz, Austin, TX 78704, 1701 Toomey Road, Serena Room
Although past conditioning often affects our behavior, the working of our higher self leads to action from true presence. Will and judgment are the two poles of the spiritual channel; aligning ourselves with the spirit of Heaven and Earth stimulates timeless energies. To access higher levels of judgment, we must connect with our origins and the way of being known as free will. This lecture examines our true nature, origin and destiny to enable us to experience the sacred in everyday life.
This is an excellent opportunity to study with one of the most knowledgeable, inspiring counselors on the subject of health and wellness. His talks are always informative, thought provoking and humorous, benefiting from decades of his own in depth study and work alongside the late death and dying pioneer, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, Buddhist teacher Sogyal Rinpoche and many other spiritual masters.
$10 donation at the door
While in Austin until May 18th, William Spear is available for private consultations in macrobiotics, feng shui, 9 Star Ki and issues related to personal transformation. To schedule an appointment, please contact us through our Connect page on this website.
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Women’s Health
April 17, 2012
Casa de Luz, Austin, TX 78704, 1701 Toomey Road, Serena Room
A long-time popular teacher based in Connecticut, William Spear is one of the first “senior teachers” of the Macrobiotic movement and has taught macrobiotic principles of health, freedom, and creative thinking for over 40 years. Author of the best selling book FENG SHUI MADE EASY, he is one of the few modern macrobiotic teachers who followed Georges Ohsawa’s encouragement to explore life comprehensively, setting aside exclusivity and dogmatism.
Most recently, Spear gained international respect for his deeply compassionate work in responding to the victims of the tsunami disasters in Sri Lanka, Samoa and Japan. As founder of The Fortunate Blessings Foundation, he assembled a team of mental health care experts to work with children traumatized by natural disasters. With His Holiness the Dalai Lama, yoga teacher Sean Crone and Jon Kabat-Zinn, Spear was recently honored as one of 7 dynamic spiritual teachers in the book, BE THE CHANGE: HOW MEDITATION CAN TRANSFORM YOU & THE WORLD.
This is an excellent opportunity to study with one of the most knowledgeable, inspiring counselors on the subject of health and wellness. His talks are always informative, thought provoking and humorous, benefiting from decades of his own in depth study and work alongside the late death and dying pioneer, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, Buddhist teacher Sogyal Rinpoche and many other spiritual masters.
$10 donation at the door
While in Austin until May 18th, William Spear is available for private consultations in macrobiotics, feng shui, 9 Star Ki and issues related to personal transformation. To schedule an appointment, please contact us through our Connect page on this website.
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Sex & Intimacy
March 4, 2012
Casa de Luz, Austin, TX 78704, 1701 Toomey Road
LECTURE POSTPONED. Please return another time to learn when this lecture is rescheduled. You might also consider sending us an email letting us know of your interest so that we can contact you directly when a new date has been set. Please send your email to: info@fortunateblessings.org
HEALTH & PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION
A series of lectures by William Spear
A long-time popular teacher based in Connecticut, William Spear is one of the first “senior teachers” of the Macrobiotic movement and has taught macrobiotic principles of health, freedom, and creative thinking for over 40 years. Author of the best selling book Feng Shui Made Easy, he is one of the few modern macrobiotic teachers who followed Georges Ohsawa’s encouragement to explore life comprehensively, setting aside exclusivity and dogmatism.
Most recently, Spear gained international respect for his deeply compassionate work in responding to the victims of the tsunami disasters in Sri Lanka, Samoa and Japan. As founder of The Fortunate Blessings Foundation, he assembled a team of mental health care experts to work with children traumatized by natural disasters. With His Holiness the Dalai Lama, yoga teacher Sean Crone and Jon Kabat-Zinn, Spear was recently honored as one of 7 dynamic spiritual teachers in the book, BE THE CHANGE: How Meditation Can Transform You & the World.
This is a rare opportunity to study with one of the most knowledgeable, inspiring counselors on the subject of health and wellness. His talks are always informative, thought provoking and humorous, benefiting from decades of his own in depth study and work alongside the late death and dying pioneer, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, Buddhist teacher Sogyal Rinpoche and many other spiritual masters.
Beginning Monday February 6 at 7:30 pm – HEALING OURSELVES
Followed by 4 other evening lectures at 7:30 pm:
– 2/12, Sun – TRAUMA & EMOTIONS
– 2/19, Sun – CHILDREN’S HEALTH
– 2/28, Tues – WILL & JUDGMENT
– 3/04, Sun – SEX & INTIMACY
@ Casa de Luz, Cielo South
$10 donation at the door for each lecture
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Will & Judgment
February 28, 2012
Casa de Luz, Austin, TX 78704, 1701 Toomey Road
LECTURE POSTPONED. Please return another time to learn when this lecture is rescheduled. You might also consider sending us an email letting us know of your interest so that we can contact you directly when a new date has been set. Please send your email to: info@fortunateblessings.org
HEALTH & PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION
A series of lectures by William Spear
A long-time popular teacher based in Connecticut, William Spear is one of the first “senior teachers” of the Macrobiotic movement and has taught macrobiotic principles of health, freedom, and creative thinking for over 40 years. Author of the best selling book Feng Shui Made Easy, he is one of the few modern macrobiotic teachers who followed Georges Ohsawa’s encouragement to explore life comprehensively, setting aside exclusivity and dogmatism.
Most recently, Spear gained international respect for his deeply compassionate work in responding to the victims of the tsunami disasters in Sri Lanka, Samoa and Japan. As founder of The Fortunate Blessings Foundation, he assembled a team of mental health care experts to work with children traumatized by natural disasters. With His Holiness the Dalai Lama, yoga teacher Sean Crone and Jon Kabat-Zinn, Spear was recently honored as one of 7 dynamic spiritual teachers in the book, BE THE CHANGE: How Meditation Can Transform You & the World.
This is a rare opportunity to study with one of the most knowledgeable, inspiring counselors on the subject of health and wellness. His talks are always informative, thought provoking and humorous, benefiting from decades of his own in depth study and work alongside the late death and dying pioneer, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, Buddhist teacher Sogyal Rinpoche and many other spiritual masters.
Beginning Monday February 6 at 7:30 pm – HEALING OURSELVES.
Followed by 4 other evening lectures at 7:30 pm:
– 2/12, Sun – TRAUMA & EMOTIONS
– 2/19, Sun – CHILDREN’S HEALTH
– 2/28, Tues – WILL & JUDGMENT
– 3/04, Sun – SEX & INTIMACY
@ Casa de Luz, Cielo South
$10 donation at the door for each lecture
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Children’s Health
February 19, 2012
Casa de Luz, Austin, TX 78704, 1701 Toomey Road
HEALTH & PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION
A series of lectures by William Spear
A long-time popular teacher based in Connecticut, William Spear is one of the first “senior teachers” of the Macrobiotic movement and has taught macrobiotic principles of health, freedom, and creative thinking for over 40 years. Author of the best selling book Feng Shui Made Easy, he is one of the few modern macrobiotic teachers who followed Georges Ohsawa’s encouragement to explore life comprehensively, setting aside exclusivity and dogmatism.
Most recently, Spear gained international respect for his deeply compassionate work in responding to the victims of the tsunami disasters in Sri Lanka, Samoa and Japan. As founder of The Fortunate Blessings Foundation, he assembled a team of mental health care experts to work with children traumatized by natural disasters. With His Holiness the Dalai Lama, yoga teacher Sean Crone and Jon Kabat-Zinn, Spear was recently honored as one of 7 dynamic spiritual teachers in the book, BE THE CHANGE: How Meditation Can Transform You & the World.
This is a rare opportunity to study with one of the most knowledgeable, inspiring counselors on the subject of health and wellness. His talks are always informative, thought provoking and humorous, benefiting from decades of his own in depth study and work alongside the late death and dying pioneer, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, Buddhist teacher Sogyal Rinpoche and many other spiritual masters.
Beginning Monday February 6 at 7:30 pm – HEALING OURSELVES
Followed by 4 other evening lectures at 7:30 pm:
– 2/12, Sun – TRAUMA & EMOTIONS
– 2/19, Sun – CHILDREN’S HEALTH
– 2/28, Tues – WILL & JUDGMENT
– 3/04, Mon – SEX & INTIMACY
@ Casa de Luz, Cielo South
$10 donation at the door for each lecture
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Trauma & Emotions
February 12, 2012
Casa de Luz, Austin, TX 78704, 1701 Toomey Road
HEALTH & PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION
A series of lectures by William Spear
A long-time popular teacher based in Connecticut, William Spear is one of the first “senior teachers” of the Macrobiotic movement and has taught macrobiotic principles of health, freedom, and creative thinking for over 40 years. Author of the best selling book Feng Shui Made Easy, he is one of the few modern macrobiotic teachers who followed Georges Ohsawa’s encouragement to explore life comprehensively, setting aside exclusivity and dogmatism.
Most recently, Spear gained international respect for his deeply compassionate work in responding to the victims of the tsunami disasters in Sri Lanka, Samoa and Japan. As founder of The Fortunate Blessings Foundation, he assembled a team of mental health care experts to work with children traumatized by natural disasters. With His Holiness the Dalai Lama, yoga teacher Sean Crone and Jon Kabat-Zinn, Spear was recently honored as one of 7 dynamic spiritual teachers in the book, BE THE CHANGE: How Meditation Can Transform You & the World.
This is a rare opportunity to study with one of the most knowledgeable, inspiring counselors on the subject of health and wellness. His talks are always informative, thought provoking and humorous, benefitting from decades of his own in depth study and work alongside the late death and dying pioneer, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, Buddhist teacher Sogyal Rinpoche and many other spiritual masters.
Beginning Monday February 6 at 7:30 pm – HEALING OURSELVES
Followed by 4 Sundays at 7:30 pm:
– 2/12 – TRAUMA & EMOTIONS
– 2/19 – CHILDREN’S HEALTH
– 2/26 – WILL & JUDGMENT
– 3/04 – SEX & INTIMACY
@ Casa de Luz, Cielo South
$10 donation at the door for each lecture
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Healing Ourselves
February 6, 2012
Casa de Luz, Austin, TX 78704, 1701 Toomey Road
HEALTH & PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION
A series of lectures by William Spear
A long-time popular teacher based in Connecticut, William Spear is one of the first “senior teachers” of the Macrobiotic movement and has taught macrobiotic principles of health, freedom, and creative thinking for over 40 years. Author of the best selling book Feng Shui Made Easy, he is one of the few modern macrobiotic teachers who followed Georges Ohsawa’s encouragement to explore life comprehensively, setting aside exclusivity and dogmatism.
Most recently, Spear gained international respect for his deeply compassionate work in responding to the victims of the tsunami disasters in Sri Lanka, Samoa and Japan. As founder of The Fortunate Blessings Foundation, he assembled a team of mental health care experts to work with children traumatized by natural disasters. With His Holiness the Dalai Lama, yoga teacher Sean Crone and Jon Kabat-Zinn, Spear was recently honored as one of 7 dynamic spiritual teachers in the book, BE THE CHANGE: How Meditation Can Transform You & the World.
This is a rare opportunity to study with one of the most knowledgeable, inspiring counselors on the subject of health and wellness. His talks are always informative, thought provoking and humorous, benefitting from decades of his own in depth study and work alongside the late death and dying pioneer, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, Buddhist teacher Sogyal Rinpoche and many other spiritual masters.
Beginning Monday February 6 at 7:30 pm – HEALING OURSELVES
Followed by 4 Sundays at 7:30 pm:
– 2/12 – TRAUMA & EMOTIONS
– 2/19 – CHILDREN’S HEALTH
– 2/26 – WILL & JUDGMENT
– 3/04 – SEX & INTIMACY
@ Casa de Luz, Cielo South
$10 donation at the door for each lecture
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FENG SHUI’S INNER WORLD
December 2, 2011
American Society of Interior Designers Texas Gulf Coast, Houston, TX 77024-2125, Houston Design Center, 7026 Old Katy Rd. Suite 285
Going beyond wind chimes and water fountains, discover the inner nature of our connections, the complementary and underlying harmony, and the elegant architecture of consciousness as an integral part of life.
For the general public and ASID members William Spear will teach 3 courses that can be taken individually or combined. The courses are designed to be of value for beginners as well as the experienced feng shui consultant. All are welcome.
Friday, Dec. 2, 7 – 9 pm, $35 ($20 ASID)
USING FENG SHUI TO DESIGN CHILDREN’S ENVIRONMENTSWhen a child is overly sensitive, lethargic, nervous, withdrawn, impatient or otherwise mal-adjusted, altering his environment according to feng shui energetics often results in significant behavioral improvements. The knowledge and application of feng shui is especially valuable when applied to a child’s bedroom and classroom, taking into account the uniqueness of each child and family. Environmental psychologists and feng shui consultants have observed similar truths; namely that colors, materials, shapes and furniture placement strongly affect emotional and physical well-being. This workshop, oriented to the specific characteristics of children, is of benefit to parents, siblings, grandparents, school teachers, nurses, social workers, day-care centers and everyone with a child in their life.
– – – –Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 am -5 pm, $195 ($165 ASID)
A catered lunch is included in the course fee.THE INNER BAGUA OF FENG SHUI: WALKING THE PATH OF HEALING
Using the bagua, the imaginary grid employed in feng shui which helps practitioners assess the energies of a space, this course offers a unique exploration of the inner nature of each of the 9 houses of the bagua, its symbolism as expressed in the I Ching trigrams, the complementary antagonisms of our consciousness, and the underlying harmony that is possible when walking the path of healing. Most feng shui consultants fail to connect the body and healing with the “inner” physical, psychological, mental or spiritual aspect of our being, leaving feng shui to merely a “doing” practice which focuses on the outer world. Each house of the inner bagua, like each part of our consciousness, is connected in a grand whole, revealing the interconnectedness of all life. When we learn the deeper nature of this timeless matrix, we discover what is necessary in our self-development to remove obstructions, change fixed patterns of behavior and develop an authentic sense of purpose, inner peace and unconditional presence in everyday life.
– – – –Sunday, Dec. 4, 10 am – 5 pm, $195 ($165 ASID)
A catered lunch is included in the course fee.SEX, INTIMACY and the 9 STARS
Using the astrology of the 9 Stars, discover how each person develops sexuality in a unique way. An understanding of this beautiful, elegant system provides an invaluable tool for gaining insights into the lives and destinies of ourselves and those with whom we are in relationship, at all levels: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual.
Biologically, males and females are formed by opposite energies in the cosmos — heaven’s force and earth’s force. The deep inner connection between the sexes manifests in terms of this polarity, leading both to opposition and to attraction of a pro-creational or sexual nature. Both men and women have feminine and masculine energies. The complementary energies are in constant interaction within each of us. By learning to recognize, accept and understand them, we come closer to achieving a harmonious integration of our physical, emotional and spiritual natures.
– – – –The fee for all 3 courses and a catered lunch on Saturday and Sunday is $385 or $295 for ASID members.
The presenter, William Spear, has long been regarded as a knowledgeable and accessible educator, author and international consultant in the fields of feng shui, the I Ching, 9 Star Ki, integrative health, end-of-life care and self-development.
His book, FENG SHUI MADE EASY, first published in 1995, was republished last year. The New York Times described the book as “the most user-friendly translation of feng shui for American audiences.” It has over 15 printings and has been translated into fourteen languages. Autographed copies will be available for purchase during the weekend in Houston.
To register for classes and for information regarding local logistics in Houston, please call (713) 542-0721 or email: m@isabelops.com
For information about the course content or William Spear, please contact his office in Connecticut at (860) 567-8801 of through the Fortunate Blessings Foundation website Contact Us page.
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Health & Wellness Retreat
November 17, 2011
Eden of the Caribbean, Soufriere, St Lucia, West Indies
Workshops and health & wellness experiences including yoga, feng shui, art, cuisine, pottery, photography, nature trail hikes, bicycle rides and other specially-designed activities.
US$800 Early-bird special for 4 days of workshops and meals if booked by September 30th. Accommodation cost depends on your choice of hotel and length of stay.
For details and to register, please visit: St Lucia Health and Wellness Retreat.
The town of Soufrière is the most peaceful and scenic town in the Caribbean - hence the name of EDEN OF THE CARIBBEAN. This exotic, natural and authentic town is home to the signature Piton Mountains, a tropical rain forest, a drive-in volcano, luxury rustic resorts and other natural must-see attractions and activities.Founded in 1746 by the French, this town of 9,000 residents is the oldest settlement on the island. It was demolished and rebuilt in 1780 after being leveled in 1780 by a hurricane.
WORKSHOPS to be given by William Spear:
Thursday, November 17, 2:30 – 4:45 pm
Jalousie Plantation, Great RoomFENG SHUI and VITAL DESIGN
Intuitive Feng Shui® is more than the art of placement: it is the deep, ancient understanding of our outer and inner environment. This body of knowledge rests on common sense and awareness of the invisible life force that permeates all consciousness and matter — from the microcosm of cellular organisms to the macrocosm of constellations.The opening talk reviews its origins and applications in everyday life and includes practical recommendations that result in positive changes
– – – –Friday, November 18, 2 – 4:45 pm
Jalousie Plantation, Great RoomFENG SHUI and HEALTH
The vast scope of Intuitive Feng Shui® encompasses a substantive exploration of the fundamental nature of body and mind. Since both health and disease are mirrored in environments, each aspect of our dwellings supports or diminishes vitality and well-being.Beyond wind chimes and water fountains, learn what you can do to make a difference in your own life and immediate environment through an understanding of the complementary and underlying harmony that this aspect of feng shui reveals.
– – – –Sunday, November 20, 2:30 – 4:45 pm
Jalousie Plantation, Great RoomFENG SHUI: The INNER WORLD
The final talk is an in-depth journey through the inner world of the bagua the rich, symbolic construct of consciousness employed in Intuitive Feng Shui®. By carefully examining each areas deeper meaning, participants will discover ways to achieve harmony in their own lives by uncovering what is necessary to remove obstructions and change fixed patterns of behavior. The result reveals a grand, unified whole — and a luminous path to love, light and inner peace.
– – – –Workshop to be given by Joan Spear
Saturday, November 19, 2:30-3:45 pm
Jalousie Plantation, Great RoomAWAKENING THE DREAMER
Humanity’s probable future is unsustainable, unjust and unfulfilling until and unless we can come together on a massive scale to transform our world. The global “Awakening the Dreamer” community is creating goals to ensure the initiative grows and reaches new audiences.– Where Are We?
– How Did We Get Here?
– What’s Possible for the Future?
– Where Do We Go from Here?If you are ready to be disturbed, inspired and moved to action, and to be introduced to a thriving community of committed cohorts, then join us in exploring the most critical concerns of our times, and discover new opportunities to make a real difference in accelerating the emergence of an environmentally sustainable, spiritually fulfilling, and socially just human presence on this planet!
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Paul Winter Consort Summer Solstice Concert
June 18, 2011
St John the Divine, New York, NY 10025, 1047 Amsterdam Ave
For its 16th annual Summer Solstice Celebration, the Paul Winter Consort will present the world première of their Grammy-winning album, Miho: Journey to the Mountain, inspired by the architecture, landscape and antiquities of I. M. Pei’s Miho Museum in the Shigaraki Mountains of Japan. Beginning in complete darkness, musicians surrounding the audience will play continuously for two hours as the Cathedral’s stained-glass windows gradually illuminate with the summer sunrise. The Consort will include soprano saxophonist Paul Winter; cellist Eugene Friesen; Armenian vocalist/percussionist Arto Tuncboyaciyan; Paul McCandless on oboe, English horn, and bass clarinet; Tibetan vocalist Yangjin Lamu; bansuri (Indian flute) master Steve Gorn; percussionist Glen Velez; and Tim Brumfield on the Cathedral’s pipe organ.
Click here to purchase tickets – $35 – or call OvationTix 866-811-4111
After the concert Saturday morning, the audience and musicians are invited to a reception hosted by the Shumei community. The green tea served has been grown in Japan according to Shumei’s natural agricultural methods, and the coffee comes from their natural agriculture center in Brazil. The reception will be in the west end of the nave just after the performance.
During the reception a series of images will be shown from the Fortunate Blessings Foundation Japan Trauma Team mission in Japan last month to train school officials, nurses, social workers and mental health care professionals as well as conduct workshops with local children affected by this devastating earthquake and tsunami of March 11. William Spear, the team’s leader, will speak briefly about his experience and future intentions to help Japanese children. The team’s journal is available on www.fortunateblessings.org/globaloutreach/japan2011.
With help from many contacts working behind the scenes to secure new opportunities for the Team’s return to Japan, Fortunate Blessings Foundation is developing ways to strengthen the work, to create multiple teams of volunteers, and ultimately build a credible, effective base of local caregivers throughout Japan to foster a greater understanding of and response to mental health issues as they relate to this disaster.
It is out of our shared deep concern for the well-being of children and for the greater good to relieve suffering, that Fortunate Blessings Foundation will continue its efforts in Japan. On-going financial support is needed, and we are grateful to all our friends of the Paul Winter Consort for supporting this important cause. We are moved to “bear one another’s burdens” as is taught in all the world’s great religious practices, and we hope you will join our efforts.
To donate, please visit www.fortunateblessings.org and click the red “Donate” button or mail a check made payable to “Japan Trauma Team” to Fortunate Blessings Foundation, 24 Village Green Drive, Litchfield, CT 06759, USA. As a 501(c)(3) tax exempt, non-profit foundation, donations are tax-deductible in the U.S. to the extent permitted by law.
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Gaia Consciousness
June 12, 2011
myhotel Chelsea, 35 Ixworth Place, London SW3 3QX, UK
Our relationship with Earth has never been more critical than at this moment. Deep ecology, sometimes called Gaia, includes many approaches, is inclusive rather than exclusive and is pluralistic rather than dualistic. Understanding how we can work together to change the world means looking deep inside ourselves and at individual consciousness – the way we think and act.
Is the Earth a living being? Is the study of geomancy meaningless without human consciousness, or can we observe the principles of feng shui as being distinct from human intervention? How do different environments on Earth affect our behavior? Though we are all connected, in what ways are we different given how climate and geographical conditions impact the way we think?
As the magnetic field of the planet changes, so does our body and understanding of the place we call home. Shifts in the macrocosm mean shifts within each cell; as these changes take place, we need to reflect on our own personal realities, values and beliefs. Movements to promote a green society require technologies that promote peace, social justice and ecological balance but can they emerge without conflict? This course explores the relationship between being and place as we move toward co-creating a world that is sustainable, just and loving.
£65 per day
£110 for both Saturday and Sunday if paid in full before 1st June or
£120 thereafter.Students: 50% discount with valid UK student ID = £32.50 per day or £65 for the weekend.
Payment can be made via PayPal on the Fortunate Blessings Foundation website
(On PayPal, please indicate the date of the event you wish to attend.)or by mailing in advance of the event a cheque issued to “Macrobiotic Association of Connecticut” sent to 13 Edithna St, London SW9 9JR. Pre-registration is advised.
For information about this event or a private consultation with William Spear during the week of 13th June, and to register for the workshop, please contact: london.fortunate.blessings@gmail.com Tel: +44 (0)7775 657407
Fortunate Blessings Foundation www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus Tel: +1 860-567-8801, Fax: +1 860-567-3304
William Spear is always honored to lecture at one of the luxury boutique hotels of the myhotels group for whom he has been the feng shui consultant since 1996.
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CHALLENGES OF THE NUCLEAR AGE: Practical Approaches to Maintaining Physical, Emotional and Spiritual Health
June 11, 2011
myhotel Chelsea, 35 Ixworth Place, London SW3 3QX, UK
With all eyes on environmental disasters, political conflicts and worsening economic issues, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the many daily challenges we face. Fear, hopelessness and despair are inextricably related to the quality of our blood as it bathes our brain cells, framing the perspective and vision of the world in which we live. As sentient beings, we are part of the natural word and no matter how challenging the circumstances, there are still many daily practices and approaches that can help us to maintain our health, strengthen our immune systems and focus on what matters most.
William Spear shares his four decades of one-on-one experience working with people facing life-threatening illness, coping with natural disasters and moving through the myriad of life’s challenges. Topics include:
- The role of stress in sickness and how to minimize its effect
- Safe, simple, medicinal foods and remedies to overcome many illnesses
- Daily breathing, movement and other practices that strengthen vitality
- How to deal with heavy emotions that weigh us down and cloud judgment
- Ways to change your surroundings to support health
- Emergency first aid remedies in the kitchen and at your fingertips
- Spiritual practices that bring clarity and calmness amidst crises
- Advanced diagnosis techniques for therapists and holistic practitioners
This workshop is ideal for every person interested in obtaining valuable healing information that is fascinating and practical to share with friends, family, coworkers and patients. Both new and seasoned health and wellness professionals of the healing arts will surely gain fresh insights. Advanced diagnosis methods are particularly useful as a complement to allopathic medicine; moreover, in the absence of standard care medicines, first aid remedies often become the “go to” choice of many holistic practitioners and first responders in emergencies.
£65 per day
£110 for both Saturday and Sunday if paid in full before 1st June or
£120 thereafter.Students: 50% discount with valid UK student ID = £32.50 per day or £65 for the weekend.
Payment can be made via PayPal on the Fortunate Blessings Foundation website
(On PayPal, please indicate the date of the event you wish to attend.)or by mailing in advance of the event a cheque issued to “Macrobiotic Association of Connecticut” sent to 13 Edithna St, London SW9 9JR. Pre-registration is advised.
For information about this event or a private consultation with William Spear during the week of 13th June, and to register for the workshop, please contact: london.fortunate.blessings@gmail.com Tel: +44 (0)7775 657407
Fortunate Blessings Foundation www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus
Tel: +1 860-567-8801, Fax: +1 860-567-3304William Spear is always honored to lecture at one of the luxury boutique hotels of the myhotels group for whom he has been the feng shui consultant since 1996.
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Japanese Children Fundraiser
June 10, 2011
myhotel Chelsea, 35 Ixworth Place, London SW3 3QX, UK
Attendance by donation in any amount is welcome!
Presentation by William Spear about his two weeks in May doing trauma relief work in Japan to benefit orphaned and traumatized children under the auspices of the Fortunate Blessings Foundation, a non-profit organization in the United States. Hear about his direct experiences, view “on the ground” photographs, and learn how you can help with what remains to be done for the surviving children of the combined triple disaster of an earthquake, tsunami and nuclear radiation.
You can donate via PayPal on the Fortunate Blessings Foundation website
or by cheque issued to “Macrobiotic Association of Connecticut” mailed to 13 Edithna St, London SW9 9JR in advance of the event or brought to the fundraiser. If you would like to contribute in another way, please contact the Fortunate Blessings Foundation.
For information about the weekend of 11th June and 12th June seminars or details regarding private consultations with William Spear during the week of 13th June, and to register for the workshops, please contact: london.fortunate.blessings@gmail.com
Tel: +44 (0)7775 657407Fortunate Blessings Foundation www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus
Tel: +1 860-567-8801, Fax: +1 860-567-3304William Spear is always honored to lecture at one of the luxury boutique hotels of the myhotels group for whom he has been the feng shui consultant since 1996.
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Northwest Musicians Japan Benefit Concert
May 22, 2011
Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Rd (Route 202), Litchfield, Connecticut
A benefit concert will take place on Sunday, May 22 at the Litchfield Community Center starting at 3 pm with music generously performed by the popular musicians Love at Work, Joel Blumert, Grooved Pavement, Michael Steinberg and Jim Palermo featuring R&B, jazz, fold and blue grass. Proceeds will go to the efforts of the Fortunate Blessings Foundation of Litchfield to help Japanese children traumatized by the triple disaster on March 11 of an earthquake, tsunami and radiation contamination.
William Spear, who will have just returned from conducting trainings in Japan, will give a brief talk about his experiences with Japanese children and their caregivers.
Attendance is by donation in any amount!
Donations can be made by check in the mail issued to “Japan Trauma Team” and mailed to
Fortunate Blessings Foundation, 24 Village Green Drive, Litchfield, CT 06759 or through the PayPal button at the bottom of the left sidebar of the Fortunate Blessings Foundation website.Please share information about this concert and our fund-raising efforts with others.
For more information regarding this event or making a donation, please contact the Fortunate Blessings Foundation at 860-567-8801 or www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus
Fortunate Blessings Foundation is a non-profit organization per the IRS Code section 501(c)(3). Your contribution is tax-deductible in the U.S. to the extent permitted by law. By providing your e-mail address or a postal address, your donation will be acknowledged in writing.
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FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT JAPANESE CHILDREN
May 7, 2011
Mandeville Canyon, Los Angeles, Los Angeles
Come support a trauma relief team going to Japan this May to train caregivers (orphanages, doctors, parents, teachers, social workers …) how to recognize and defuse Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in children following the triple March 11 disaster in Japan of an earthquake, tsunami and radiation.
Helping children overcome trauma is what we do best.
On May 7, join William Spear, President and Founder of the non-profit Fortunate Blessings Foundation, who will talk about his past experiences doing trauma relief work in Sri Lanka, Java and Samoa, and what he expects to accomplish leading another specialized team to Japan on May 8.
Attendance by donation in any amount is welcome!
The venue address will be provided with your RSVP by May 5 to:
Fortunate Blessings Foundation
24 Village Green Drive
Litchfield, CT 06759, USA
Tel +1 (860) 567-8801
Fax +1(860) 567-3304
www.fortunateblessings.orgIf you are not able to attend the fundraising event, please share this with others and consider making a donation by check in the mail or through PayPal on the left sidebar of foundation’s website.
Fortunate Blessings Foundation is a non-profit organization per the IRS Code section 501(c)(3). Your contribution is tax-deductible in the U.S. to the extent permitted by law. By providing your e-mail address or a postal address, your donation will be acknowledged in writing.
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JUDGMENT, WILL & PERCEPTION
April 27, 2011
Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17th St, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
This is the last of four consecutive Wednesday evening lectures William Spear will present in New York City in April.
JUDGMENT, WILL & PERCEPTION
Although past conditioning often affects our behavior, the working of our higher self leads to action from true presence. Will and judgment are the two poles of the spiritual channel; aligning ourselves with the spirit of Heaven and Earth stimulates timeless energies. To access higher levels of judgment, we must connect with our origins and the way of being known as free will. This lecture examines our true nature, origin and destiny to enable us to experience the sacred in everyday life.$15 tuition
Location: Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17th Street, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
Please be mindful of the reflective nature of the Zendo and enter the space quietly because a yoga class will be in session until 7:45 pm. Shoes are removed upon entering the Zendo. For seating you will have a choice between a chair or a floor cushion.
For information and to pre-register, please contact Fortunate Blessings Foundation through the website: www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus
or call (860) 567-8801 -
BACK TO NATURE: THE HOUSE AS A LIVING BEING
April 20, 2011
Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17th St, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
This is the third of four consecutive Wednesday evening lectures William Spear will present in New York City this April. The lectures can be taken separately or as a series.
BACK TO NATURE: THE HOUSE AS A LIVING BEING
The correlation between feng shui and health explores how our environments relate to cancer, autoimmune disease, depression, cardiovascular disease, chronic fatigue, etc. It s essential to understand our homes as living organisms made up of interconnected cells, organs and systems that breathe, contract, expand and pulse vitality through our everyday lives.$15 tuition
Location: Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17th Street, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
Please be mindful of the reflective nature of the Zendo and enter the space quietly because a yoga class will be in session until 7:45 pm. Shoes are removed upon entering the Zendo. For seating you will have a choice between a chair or a floor cushion.
For information and to pre-register, please contact Fortunate Blessings Foundation through the website: www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus
or call (860) 567-8801 -
RAISING HEALTHY CHILDREN
April 13, 2011
Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17 Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10011
This is the second of four consecutive Wednesday evening lectures William Spear will present in New York City in April. The lectures can be taken separately or as a series.
RAISING HEALTHY CHILDREN
Children are precious and everything we do to shape their lives can make a difference. As elders, we must reflect upon our own true nature in order to support their highest development. This lecture explores various approaches to education, health, environment and the myriad of ways to nurture each child’s unique expression into the world.$15 tuition
Location: Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17th Street, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
Please be mindful of the reflective nature of the Zendo and enter the space quietly because a yoga class will be in session until 7:45 pm. Shoes are removed upon entering the Zendo. For seating you will have a choice between a chair or a floor cushion.
For information and to pre-register, please contact Fortunate Blessings Foundation
through the website: www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus
or call (860) 567-8801 -
MACROBIOTICS 2.0: THE EVOLUTION OF COMMUNITY
April 6, 2011
Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17 Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10011
This is the first of four consecutive Wednesday evening lectures in April William Spear will present in New York City. The lectures can be taken separately or as a series.
MACROBIOTICS 2.0: THE EVOLUTION OF COMMUNITY
What does the future hold for macrobiotics? Examining the seven levels of understanding can help us explore more evolved ways to discuss food, sex, personal judgment and individual health. Airing these distinctions empowers us to live with greater purpose and freedom in support of everyone in our community.Tuition is $15 per lecture or $50 for all four lectures paid in advance or on the first evening.
Location: Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17th Street, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
Please be mindful of the reflective nature of the Zendo and enter the space quietly because a yoga class will be in session until 7:45 pm. Shoes are removed upon entering the Zendo. For seating you will have a choice between a chair or a floor cushion.
For information and to pre-register, please contact Fortunate Blessings Foundation
through the website: www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus
or call (860) 567-8801 -
BEYOND RICE AND BEANS
March 16, 2011
On-line Interactive Hour, Oroville, CA, Pacific Time
This event is open to currently registered students in the Counselor Training Program of Macrobiotics America conducted by David and Cynthia Briscoe based in Oroville, CA. During this interactive hour led by David Briscoe, William Spear will be the guest moderator. The topic will address how a macrobiotic counselor encourages a client to explore or face issues of well-being that go beyond food and physical health. These could be aspects of a relationship, emotions, career choices, the environment or other issues that impact our multi-faceted lives.
The Briscoes are long-time and experienced macrobiotic educators who present macrobiotics from a place of deep integrity, compassion and wisdom. They offer a wide range of training options: private and group in-person programs in California and elsewhere, on-line, through pay-per-view videos, and home study courses. Please visit their website for details: www.macroamerica.com
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9 STAR KI: THE 11 MONTHS AHEAD
March 2, 2011
Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17 Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10011
This was to have been the first lecture in the February series of four but due to inclement weather on February 2nd, this lecture, now the last, has been rescheduled for this date.
9 STAR KI: THE 11 MONTHS AHEAD
On February 4, 2011 the new energy of the 7 Lake star arrives and begins to rule the year. What does this mean for all of us and for you, in particular? Come enter the fascinating world of one of the oldest forms of astrology to learn more about yourself and what the future holds.Tuition is $15 per lecture or $50 for all four lectures paid in advance or on the first evening.
Location: Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17th Street, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
Please be mindful of the reflective nature of the Zendo and enter the space quietly because a yoga class will be in session until 7:45 pm. Shoes are removed upon entering the Zendo. For seating you will have a choice between a chair or a floor cushion.
For information and to pre-register, please contact Fortunate Blessings Foundation through the website: www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus
or call (860) 567-8801 -
MAXIMUM HEALING with Dr. Robert Silverstein
February 27, 2011
Mayflower Inn, Tea House, 118 Woodbury Rd (Rte 47), Washington, CT 06793
MAXIMUM HEALING, Optimize Your Natural Ability to Heal
Complimentary 1.5 hour lecture given by Dr. Silverstein followed by a book-signing of Maximum Healing.
Recognized as cutting edge, Dr. Silverstein applies simple principles of Natural Human Design rules that allow disease prevention and/or reversal of diabetes, high cholesterol, stroke, high blood pressure and even cancer.
Based on his approach of Complementary-Alternative-Integrative-Medicine, Dr. Silverstein outlines a program that integrates modern medical practices with holistic and ancient forms of healing. His premise is that our self-healing mechanism – the immune system – is more powerful than we think. If we make wise dietary and lifestyle changes the immune system can function at an optimal level, restore health and prevent illness.
Dr. H. Robert Silverstein is board certified in cardiology and internal medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and a Fellow of the American College of Preventive Medicine with a practice in Hartford. His approach to medicine is holistic, patient empowering and inclusive of Complementary Alternative Integrative Medicine. For more information about Dr. Silverstein and his work, please visit: www.wellness-md.com and www.thepmc.org
William Spear will introduce Dr. Silverstein. The two met in the 1980s, and they share a strong and mutual interest in natural health and integrative medicine.
To reserve your seat for this COMPLIMENTARY lecture and book-signing, please contact:
Fortunate Blessings Foundation via e-mail at www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus or call (860) 567-8801
VENUE: Tea House at the Mayflower Inn
118 Woodbury Road (Route 47), Washington, CT 06793
Tel: 860-868-9466 For directions, visit: www.mayflowerinn.com -
GAIA CONSCIOUSNESS
February 23, 2011
Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17 Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10011
This is part of four consecutive Wednesday evening lectures William Spear will present in New York City this February and March 2nd. The lectures can be taken separately or as a series.
GAIA CONSCIOUSNESS
Is the earth a living being? Is the study of feng shui meaningful without human consciousness? How do different environments on earth affect behavior? As the magnetic field of the planet changes, so does our body and understanding of the planet we call home. This lecture looks at the relationship between being and place from the widest perspectives. As we rediscover our intuitive genius, the distinction between inner and outer worlds falls away, and we rediscover the integration and ultimate unity of masculine and feminine.$15 tuition
Location: Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17th Street, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
Please be mindful of the reflective nature of the Zendo and enter the space quietly because a yoga class will be in session until 7:45 pm. Shoes are removed upon entering the Zendo. For seating you will have a choice between a chair or a floor cushion.
For information and to pre-register, please contact Fortunate Blessings Foundation through the website: www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus
or call (860) 567-8801 -
DREAMTIME: DECODING THE MESSAGES
February 16, 2011
Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17 Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10011
This is part of four consecutive Wednesday evening lectures William Spear will present in New York City this February and on March 2nd. The lectures can be taken separately or as a series.
DREAMTIME: DECODING THE MESSAGES
Dreams have fascinated people since the earliest times. Images, symbols and inner visions piece together to inform us of the important issues in our lives: some dreams prophesize our future while others call us to examine our unfinished, past challenges. This evenings talk goes beyond the purely psychological approach.$15 tuition
Location: Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17th Street, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
Please be mindful of the reflective nature of the Zendo and enter the space quietly because a yoga class will be in session until 7:45 pm. Shoes are removed upon entering the Zendo. For seating you will have a choice between a chair or a floor cushion.
For information and to pre-register, please contact Fortunate Blessings Foundation through the website: www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus
or call (860) 567-8801 -
SEX, INTIMACY and THE 9 STARS
February 9, 2011
Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17 Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10011
This is part of a four-lecture series William Spear is teaching this February in New York. Each lecture can be attended separately.
SEX, INTIMACY and THE 9 STARS
Through this beautiful, elegant astrological system, discover how each person expresses sexuality in a unique way. Gain a deeper understanding of the inner connection between the sexes by learning to recognize the harmonious integration of our physical, emotional and spiritual nature.$15 tuition
Location: Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17th Street, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
Please be mindful of the reflective nature of the Zendo and enter the space quietly because a yoga class will be in session until 7:45 pm. Shoes are removed upon entering the Zendo. For seating you will have a choice between a chair or a floor cushion.
For information and to pre-register, please contact Fortunate Blessings Foundation through the website: www.fortunateblessings.org/contactus
or call (860) 567-8801 -
9 STAR KI: THE YEAR AHEAD
February 2, 2011
Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17th St, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
PLEASE NOTE: THIS LECTURE HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER. IT WILL BE RESCHEDULED FOR MARCH 2nd. CHECK THIS SPACE FOR MORE INFORMATION TO BE POSTED HERE SOON. ALL OTHER LECTURES WILL TAKE PLACE AS ADVERTISED.
9 STAR KI: THE YEAR AHEAD
On February 4, 2011 the new energy of the 7 Lake star arrives and begins to rule the year. What does this mean for all of us and for you, in particular? Come enter the fascinating world of one of the oldest forms of astrology to learn more about yourself and what the future holds.Tuition is $15 per lecture or $50 for all four lectures paid in advance or on the first evening.
Location: Still Mind Zendo, 37 West 17th Street, 6th floor, New York, NY 10011
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Feng Shui and Health
January 21, 2011
Seed Restaurant, 1604 Pacific Avenue, Venice, CA 90291
(90-minute lecture followed by a 30-minute book-signing)
The illusion of what goes on in the world “out there” creates a temptation to avoid the bigger struggles that lie within our own mind and body. We can adjust our diet and move some furniture, but until we change our perceptions, we will repeatedly face the same conflicts.
The 2,600-year old Chinese tradition of acupuncture is now recognized by medical practitioners as a process for enabling the chi (energy) to flow more freely through the invisible channels or meridians in our body. The flow of chi through the body’s energy channels affects our physical, emotional, and spiritual health. In an analogous manner, feng shui enhances the flow of chi through our homes and workplaces, leading to an increased sense of well-being, and a reawakening of the sacred in our everyday lives.
Although feng shui is commonly defined as the art of placement and regarded as a synonym for interior decorating, its true essence is a more encompassing and substantive exploration of the fundamental nature of the energetics of consciousness, as symbolized in each house of the bagua (feng shui grid) and expressed in the I Ching trigrams from which this ancient knowledge derived. Both health and disease are mirrored in our environments; every aspect of our dwellings supports or diminishes our vitality and well-being.
Going beyond wind chimes and water fountains, discover the inner nature of our connections, the complementary and underlying harmony, and the elegant architecture of consciousness as an integral part of life.
A BOOK-SIGNING of William Spear’s newly revised and republished FENG SHUI MADE EASY will follow the lecture. One of the three new chapters is entitled “Feng Shui and Health.”
WILLIAM SPEAR has long been regarded as a knowledgeable and accessible educator, author and consultant in the fields of health, feng shui, the I Ching, 9 Star Ki, end-of-life care and personal development. He is an original Kushi Institute faculty member, senior macrobiotic teacher and counselor. He is the founder and president of the non-profit 501(c)(3) Fortunate Blessings Foundation which offers educational programs in the service of wellness for the individual, for our human living and working environments, and for the larger ecological and social health of human and planetary life. His book, Feng Shui Made Easy, first published in 1995 by Harper Collins was revised and republished in November 2010 by North Atlantic Books. He has appeared on CNN, the BBC, the CBS Morning show, and other world media. While based in Connecticut, William teaches and consults internationally. His warmth, humor, insight, wisdom and practical experience make him an ideal teacher.
LOCATION: Seed Restaurant, 1604 Pacific Avenue, Venice, CA 90291
Tel: 310-396-1604
Lecture TUITION: $10
To pre-register and more information, please go to
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The Inner World of Intuitive Feng Shui® & Book-Signing
January 17, 2011
Golden Gate School of Feng Shui, 3225 Adeline Street, Berkeley, California 94703
Although feng shui is commonly defined as the “art of placement” and regarded as a synonym for interior decorating, its true essence is a more encompassing and substantive exploration of the fundamental nature of the energetics of consciousness, as symbolized in each house of the bagua (feng shui grid) and expressed in the I Ching trigrams from which this ancient knowledge derived.
Our senses inform us of the elements of place. Feng shui enlightens our relationship to space and our constant need for harmony with our environment. What we see, hear, smell, taste, and touch communicate either vitality and calm or discord and chaos. Many people naturally drawn to feng shui have been distracted by fashion, style or irrelevant aspects of interior design. Though fascinating and popular, these trends and magical charms are not likely to satisfy our sense of balance or negate powerful environmental hazards.
Going beyond wind chimes and water fountains, discover the inner nature of our connections, the complementary and underlying harmony, and the elegant architecture of consciousness as an integral part of life.
LOCATION: Golden Gate School of Feng Shui, 3225 Adeline Street, Berkeley, CA 94703
(415) 945-8899
TUITION: $15 ($16.99) in advance, $22 at the door
To register on line: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/143163
www.fengshuischool.com/evening_with_w_s.php
Free street parking
Please arrive before 7 pm so that the lecture can start on time.
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Life Over Cancer
December 9, 2010
Chawla Auditorium at Saint Francis Hospital & Medical Center, 114 Woodland St., Hartford, CT
See the December 5th description. Auditorium address: 114 Woodland St. Hartford, CT 06105
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Life Over Cancer
December 8, 2010
Center IMT, 800 Cottage Grove Rd, Bloomfield, CT 06002
See December 5th for the description. Center IMT is on 800 Cottage Grove Rd in Bloomfield.
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Life Over Cancer
December 5, 2010
Mayflower Inn, Tea House, 118 Woodbury Rd (Rte 47), Washington, CT 06793
Dr. Keith Block, a long-time friend of William Spear and medical director of the Block Center for Integrative Cancer Treatment in Evanston, IL, will discuss and sign his recent book, Life Over Cancer. Dr. Block’s talk and book cover his multifaceted program of personally-tailored integrative cancer treatment and prevention, including:
– Dietary choices and rationale aimed at making the biochemical environment hostile to cancer growth and recurrence, while strengthening the immune system’s ability to attack remaining cancer cells.
– How natural products can be used to improve vitality and health, relieve disease-related symptoms, favorably modify processes like inflammation and glycemia that, if left untreated, can trigger or fuel the growth of cancer and illness. The use of whole plant based supplements can also be used to tame related side effects while enhancing treatments.
– A new paradigm for exercise and stress reduction aimed at restoring biological rhythms, vitality, and strength, while reducing anxiety and depression. This balance is essential for supporting the body’s own ability to heal.
– Innovative approaches to enhancing conventional treatment, such as chronomodulated chemotherapy (chronotherapy), which coordinates the administration of chemotherapy to patients’ unique circadian rhythms. Gold standard research demonstrates improved treatment effectiveness, reduced toxicity and improved survival.
– Strategies you can implement to reduce the risk of disease recurrence.
Dr. Block is the Director of Integrative Medical Education at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago, and a member of the National Cancer Institute’s PDQ Cancer Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Editorial Board. Life Over Cancer, is a ground-breaking book that provides patients with a systematic, research-based plan for developing the physical and emotional vitality they need to meet the demands of treatment and recovery (www.blockmd.com)
There is no charge for this lecture, but an RSVP would be appreciated. For more information regarding this event, please contact the Fortunate Blessings Foundation in Litchfield at 860-567-8801 or e-mail info@fortunateblessings.org
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Mind Over Matter
June 1, 2010
New York Core Center, New York City, 115 E 23 St
What really happens when we create an intention in our mind? Learn about the placebo effect, the five natural emotions and how to harness the stunning power of psychoneuroimmunology.
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Myth of Modern Life
May 25, 2010
New York Core Center, New York City, 115 E 23 St
Have we abandoned our telescopes for microscopes, hoping to find the magic bullet in the minutia? Have we lost the big view and with it, our place in nature? Learn how to transcend duality, to live your true dream and experience body, mind and spirit as one.
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Food as Medicine
May 11, 2010
New York Core Center, New York City, 115 E 23 St
Which foods help us heal? Which foods prevent illness? A thorough review of the energies of food, natural approaches to major health issues and 5 medicinal foods that everyone can use.
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Magic of the Great Life
May 4, 2010
New York Core Center, New York City, 115 E 23 St
The Unifying Principle and its application in understanding our relationship with the environment, our health and seven practical ways to care for ourselves and others in the Spring and Summer.
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Four Ways of Spirit
March 24, 2010
A Taste of Health, Caribbean Cruise, Caribbean
Examining the early lives of Moses, Jesus of Nazareth, Ubu’l-Kassim (Mohammed), or Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha), we discover that all these great teachers share the values that matter most. Each one’s personal decision to set forth on a spiritual path in service of community was always preceded by distinct changes in his personal life and the way he related to his families and community. This informative talk explores our tendency to be exclusionary and refocuses our personal insight and spiritual understanding toward the shared values of all paths: compassion, tolerance and selfless service.
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The 900 Pound Orca in the Room
March 23, 2010
A Taste of Health, Caribbean Cruise, Caribbean
Marine ecosystems are threatened, degraded, and destroyed by human activities, such as this cruise we have joined. Because pollutants accumulate in marine animals and vegetables, humans are exposed when we consume contaminated sea foods. Marine pollutants include oil, sewage, garbage, chemicals, radioactive waste, and thermal pollution – some caused directly by ocean-going vessels. While organic grains and vegetables are included in our daily diet, shouldn’t we also be aware of the quality of foods from the sea? This talk informs, frightens and awakens us to do more than sail the ocean blue ignoring that Orca.
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Compassion and Behavior: There is Only One of Us Here
March 22, 2010
A Taste of LIfe, Caribbean Cruise, Caribbean Cruise
True compassion is not just an emotional response but a firm commitment founded on the recognition that we are all basically the same. A truly compassionate attitude doesn’t change even if others behave negatively. To instill a spirit of compassion and love, tolerance toward an enemy is indispensable. Georges Ohsawa and others throughout time have suggested that our enemies are our best friends. Because every human shares an identical need for love, it is possible to feel that anybody we meet, in whatever circumstances, is a brother or sister — our fundamental natures are the same. Come explore the illusion of our differences and cultivate the spirit of compassion.
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The Last Two Drops of Blood: Living in the Present Until Our Final Breath
February 27, 2010
The Graduate Institute, Stamford, Connecticut, Stamford, Connecticut
We will all die someday. In that human process, sharing both the wonder and fear of the end of life presents us with an extraordinary opportunity to bear witness to a person’s final journey beyond time and space. It is truly one of life’s most intimate experiences and a means to learn the importance of just being present. Learning to be present at the end of life is learning to be present in life itself — every moment.
At the end of life what matters most – what makes the difference – is taking the time to slow down, to hold a hand, to give support, to just be and share the silence. Knowing what might be taking place, regardless of how a person lived life, helps caregivers of all ages to let go into the present and go beyond preconceived ideas of separateness. Few may willingly want to step into this space, yet all of us will have to with loved ones, close friends and ultimately at the end of our own lives.
Tibetan Buddhists believe that death itself does not occur until we lose the polarities planted in us by our Mother and Father. This fascinating perspective, together with insights into being with dying, will be the focus of this talk and discussion led by a long time end-of-life facilitator trained by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross and Tibetan Lama Sogyal Rinpoche.
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Intuitive Feng Shui® – Walking the Path of Healing From Within
September 8, 2009
National College of Naturopathic Medicine, OR, Portland
Using the bagua, the imaginary grid employed in feng shui which helps practitioners assess the energies of a space, this evening s talk offers a unique exploration of the inner nature of each house of the bagua, its symbolism as expressed in its I Ching trigram, the complementary antagonisms of our consciousness, and the underlying harmony that is possible when walking the path of healing. Most feng shui teachers fail to connect the body and healing with the “inner” physical, psychological, mental or spiritual aspect of our being, leaving feng shui to merely a “doing” practice which focuses on the outer world. Each house of the inner bagua, like each part of our consciousness, is connected in a grand whole, revealing the interconnectedness of all life. When we learn the deeper nature of this timeless matrix, we discover what is necessary in our self-development to remove obstructions, change fixed patterns of behavior and develop an authentic sense of purpose, inner peace and unconditional presence in every day life.
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Macrobitics in Society: Making a Difference in the World
July 12, 2009
Kushi Institute Summer Conference, NY, Palisades, NY
We are an integral part of the fabric of society, not separate from it. After applying macrobiotic principles to heal ourselves, we each have an opportunity to impact society in positive, far-reaching ways. Guided by the spirit of “One Grain: Ten Thousand Grains,” we can all make invaluable contributions in community education, social programs and many other areas where people matter more than profit, and our perspective presents unlimited possibilities to change the future.
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Design From the Inside Out: The Approach of Intuitive Feng Shui®
June 3, 2009
Design Within Reach, Tremont St, Boston, MA
At its simplest, feng shui explains why we instinctively feel more comfortable in some places than others; how the places in which we live and work affect the way we feel; and how small adjustments in our environment can have a positive impact on our lives. Much of today’s application of feng shui is a reactive response to problems caused by poor design. This evening lecture is ideal for builders, architects, designers and the homeowner who wish to integrate feng shui proactively at the initial design stage to create harmonious environments that incorporate practicality, common sense and the timeless principles of this ancient art.
As taught by author and consultant William Spear, Intuitive Feng Shui® begins with the self and is limitless, empowering and experiential – the ultimate in interior design. Come gain a deeper understanding of the world and your place in it, and the ability to improve the quality of your own life and the lives of others.
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Mind Over Matter
June 1, 2009
New York Core Center, 115 E 23 St, New York, NY
What really happens when we create an intention in our mind? Learn about the placebo effect, the five natural emotions and how to harness the stunning power of psychoneuroimmunology
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Healing Practices and Clear Principles of the Macrobiotic Way
March 3, 2009
Private home, Tenafly, NJ, Tenafly, NJ
Macrobiotics reveals how everything is connected. Following its principles and practices, you can improve your life in many different ways, especially personal and family health. Macrobiotics explores the energy of our universe, our whole being and the daily food that influences our physical, emotional, mental and spiritual experience. Under increasing social stress and amidst growing toxicity in the environment, how we choose to live and eat is more important than ever.
- Traditional Wisdom for Modern Times
- How to Use Food to Overcome Sickness
- Home Remedies for Women and Children
- Staying Healthy in the Year Ahead
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Feng Shui: The Eastern Sense of Space, Environment and Well-Being
February 6, 2009
The Graduate Institute, 80 Seymour St, Hartford, CT
The 2,600-year-old Chinese tradition of acupuncture is now recognized by medical practitioners as a process for enabling the chi (energy) to flow more freely through the invisible channels or meridians in our body. The flow of chi through the body’s energy channels affects our physical, emotional, and spiritual health. In an analogous manner, feng shui enhances the flow of chi through our homes and workplaces, leading to an increased sense of well-being, and a reawakening of the sacred in our everyday lives. As a practice, feng shui emerged from the teachings of the I Ching, or “Book of Changes”, which lies at the heart of Taoism. Taoism, is a philosophy that reflects on the inner world of being through the higher self. Drawing from the insights of the I Ching, is imperative for the feng shui consultant to be most effective. Specifically, Spear’s states:
“… the I Ching deals with the spiritual dimensions inside us, the place where we can all experience our common unity. It operates from the realization that we are each a reflection of each other within a universal source, and prompts us to ask, ‘How can we improve things for the mutual benefit of all?’ When feng shui is practiced from this premise, it is a unique approach to interior design.” – William Spear
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Healing the Whole Being
November 14, 2008
Dutch Association of Macrobiotics, Holland, De Stipe
Because human beings are whole – comprised of body, mind and spirit – we must be aware of each aspect of our being to more fully transform ourselves and live a healthy, happy life. As Western society brings its focus more to diets, treatment modalities and health insurance, are we losing contact with our true essence and what it means to heal?
Using a macrobiotic perspective, this weekend returns us to the inescapable reality of the many levels of the nature of human beings. The term “macrobiotics” was used in ancient Greece as the art of health and longevity through living in harmony with the environment. In modern times, the term represents a healthy way of life, reflecting the spirit of what a healthy person experiences: macro, meaning large or great, and bios, meaning life great life. As a macrobiotic student, teacher and counselor since the 1970’s, William Spear shares his personal reflections on the Great Life and the challenges of Non-Credo.
It is heartening to know that many practitioners of macrobiotics want to make the world a better place – to contribute their understanding to make a difference where it counts. The real change in the modern world, though, is not happening outside. We are in the midst of a major shift in consciousness – our inner topography – that is dramatically changing our perception. The fundamental globe that is changing is inside our skull. The illusions under which we live have become so big that we actually think they are real.
We have forgotten who we are – so how can we know anything else? How can we possibly begin to understand where or when our life is lived if our basic assumptions of life and death are so distant from the source? Macrobiotics is about the individual and his place in the infinite, and about each one of us in relationship to time and space. While in concept it may be possible to accept the idea that linear time is a convenient distraction, few of us are able to live in the moment. Time is an illusion – to be sure – but what difference does it make if we play along provided that we “know” the truth? How would our lives be different if we were to align with “now” and abandon the beckoning call of past and future? It is here, in the moment — and nowhere else — that we catch that glimpse of eternity. Forever can only exist in now — and inside forever lays the eternal dream. And a flexible, aware practice of macrobiotics is about being in the right place at the right time. Movement and placement are not separate. Questions of “where” must be answered while also considering “when.”
Macrobiotics is a method of understanding the relationship between our external environment and our consciousness within. When properly practiced, a polarity is created between these two worlds, stimulating movement and change. Deep within each one of us lays the possibility of peace, health and freedom. How we realize these endless dreams externally has little to do with the political agenda of our time. Every person, through cultivating the space within, reflects a different reality around him. When we are able to keep our priorities straight, while transforming ourselves, miracles do happen — from the inside out.
As people’s lifestyles begin to include a more holistic understanding – combining physical, spiritual and emotional health – the informed practitioner and therapist must be able to contribute an understanding of appropriate modifications in diet and life style. Even American investment bankers at J.P. Morgan identified this among six emerging trends of today’s wealthy culture, saying in an annual report: “the affluent consumer will pay more attention to the principles of feng shui, as well as organic and macrobiotic food in their home.
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Inner Bagua
November 11, 2008
East West Centre, Belgium, Antwerp
The bagua is the feng shui grid that helps a person assess the energies of a space. This one-day course offers an in-depth exploration of the inner nature of each house of the bagua, its symbolism as expressed in its I Ching trigram, the complementary antagonisms of our consciousness, and the underlying harmony of our inner life. Each house of the inner bagua, like each part of our consciousness, is connected in a grand whole. We can discover the nature of the connections, and learn what is necessary in our self-development to remove obstructions and change fixed patterns of behavior. This knowledge is useful for the general public to better understand themselves, others, interior and exterior spaces, and useful also to people practicing feng shui or who would like to.
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Intuitive Feng Shui® in the 21st Century: Personal Health and Transformation in Times of Change
October 19, 2008
Emerald Green Feng Shui Institute, Seattle, WA, Seattle, WA
In ancient times, the practice of traditional feng shui had less to do with the external world than the infinite inner space and awareness of consciousness beyond the confines of time and space. It clears the path for energy to flow and expands consciousness from the inside out. This powerful process of transformation is the premise of Intuitive Feng Shui®, the Registered Service Mark of William Spear. While bed and desk locations are key elements to “external” feng shui, it is through an empowered understanding of the architecture of consciousness that endure the test of time.
In our rapidly changing world, feng shui can be applied for both individual and collective purposes – to more than just the mundane, material aspects of furniture placement and physical structure. This vast and profound body of knowledge, once thought to be too complex and largely unapproachable for the Western mind, is, in reality, a simple, timeless system of unifying principles. Recognizing that we are each a reflection of the other within the cosmos, we are prompted to discover how can we improve things for the mutual benefit of all sentient beings.
To make effective and enduring changes using feng shui, it is essential to understand our homes and buildings as living organisms made up of interconnected cells, organs and systems that breathe, contract, expand and pulse vitality through our everyday lives. Our health and sickness is mirrored in our environment; as such, our dwellings either support our health or diminish it. This course explores the correlation between feng shui and health, looking closely at the way in which our environments relate to our physical well-being.
Practicing feng shui effectively requires more than applying learned data; it means being a receiver and transmitter of energy, in whom being is more important than knowing or doing. To make this possible, self-development and personal transformation must be continuous. This workshop examines various levels of change and harmony: spirit, karma, emotions, body and chi from the viewpoint of macrobiotic principles and Oriental philosophy.
This course also addresses the heart and soul of human life: our emotional body. While feng shui consultants fill plastic bags and empty closets when clearing clutter, those using Intuitive Feng Shui® clear the space within, letting go of past resentment, expectation and distorted emotional baggage, returning to the wisdom of unconditional presence, compassion and love as the true source of balance and harmony.
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9 Star Ki and Destiny
October 5, 2008
Novato Oaks Inn, CA, Novato, CA
This course is the next step for anyone who already has some 9 Star Ki background. The workshop is also of value for anyone who holds an interest in Taoism, Chinese medicine, psychology, or who lives or works with human beings.
9 Star Ki is a system of understanding your inner “tao,” your personal energetic blueprint, and how you can live in alignment with that sacred inner design. It is almost deceptively simple and elegantly easy to use, as it provides an incredibly deep knowledge of who you are, how to create successful relationships, what you need to be happy in life, and most importantly, your karmic destiny. Your personal qualities are assigned ‘numbers’ in this system, but it is not numerology, nor is there any calculation or interpretation of heavenly bodies necessary.
This course will focus on the third number, which is sometimes called your “Tendency” or “Destiny” number. It’s this quality that helps you understand your karmic destiny and its effect on your life path. It is this number and its relationship to your other two numbers that carries your karma, or soul’s coding or destiny; therefore, the third number is extremely important to take into consideration in your own self-reflection, as well as in your relationships with others.
Few people are aware of the deeper significance and meaning of this third number and its relevance to health, life’s journey and realigning your true purpose. This two-day workshop reveals an elegant depth to this ancient body of knowledge.
With an understanding of the third “Destiny” number of the 9 Star Ki system, you can:
- Learn your own special destiny.
- Get a deeper understanding of who you truly are.
- Gain control over your life instead of forcing yourself, and align yourself with the Tao.
- Develop your unique, individual qualities, and release your potential.
- Learn to align your intentions with your natural destiny.
- Find the right time and place to achieve your goals.
- Improve personal and professional relationships.
- Help others understand their life path.
This weekend is appropriate for parents, spouses, teachers, coaches, consultants, therapists, managers, medical professionals, business professionals, and anyone who interacts with other humans in daily life.
The course follows a loosely structured agenda reflective of the group’s needs, with an open environment for questions, discussions and personal observations from participants. There will be information about how the third number relates to the other two as well as how different trios interact. The course is a two-day commitment.
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Nutrition, Bones and Joints
September 5, 2008
Center for Integrative Manual Therapy and Diagnostics, Connecticut, Bloomfield, CT
The key to healthy bones and joints is not just in the foods we eat, but in the lifestyles we choose. This informative talk examines the specific essential nutrients for skeletal health and also the broader context of environmental factors that could mean the difference between developing degenerative conditions or building strong foundations for a healthy body, mind and spirit.
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Power of Natural Healing
July 30, 2008
Kushi Institute Summer Conference, Massachusetts, Wellesley, Massachusetts
As society focuses more on diets, treatment modalities and health insurance, are we losing contact with the essence of what it means to heal? The macrobiotic approach to health and healing is not a specifically defined diet. Since we are each unique, live in different environments, have diverse needs, and do different work, individual nutritional requirements vary. Macrobiotics is also used therapeutically by those already ill wishing to employ natural methods. Modern Western science has begun to acknowledge and research traditional dietary and medical practices. Simple, direct and elegant, successful macrobiotic approaches can be applied to both minor imbalances and major degenerate diseases. Macrobiotics with its natural healing techniques is a lifestyle choice based on ancient traditions, modern science and common sense.
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The Spirit of Macrobiotics: Healing Ourselves with Ancient Traditions and Common Sense
July 29, 2008
Kushi Institute Summer Conference, Massachusetts, Wellesley, Massachusetts
Granted that our daily food is key to our being – we must take into account the spirit and purpose behind dietary recommendations. Macrobiotics has represented “the healthy way of life,” reflecting how a wise person could heal naturally and safely; however, for some, macrobiotics became a set of rules resulting in completely the opposite outcome. What happened?
As lifestyles include more holistic approaches, we need to be aware of the many choices within a wide range of possibilities. Modern science acknowledges and validates the basis of the macrobiotic dietary practice yet it is the spirit behind each individual’s daily practice that might make the real difference the spirit of inclusion rather than exclusion, flexibility rather than rigidity and the joyful pursuit of our dreams.
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Eastern Holism in Life, Diet and Design
July 16, 2008
The Graduate Institute, Connecticut, Connecticut
The day is designed to draw attention to aspects of optimal health and well-being over which we can have some control. William Spear will discuss Eastern diet, holism in approach to health, and many of the problems that he sees in the Western approach to nutrition and optimal health. His presentation is a challenging and stimulating view of life and lifestyle. It will cause you to rethink some old habits.
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Sugar, Empty Calories and the Energies of Food – A Macrobiotic Perspective
June 10, 2008
Center for Integrative Manual Therapy and Diagnostics, Connecticut, Connecticut
The result of modern manufacturing of sugar is concentrated crystallized acid.
In the human body, crystallized acid precipitates a series of biochemical crises that adversely affects the intestines, kidneys, pancreas, adrenal glands and brain. Finally, it breaks down the body systems and distorts clear thinking and judgment. Sugar produces diabetes, helps raise cancer rates, and has brought about an epidemic of hypoglycemia and damaged digestive tracts.
Among the ingredients in a can of soda you will find phosphoric acid that, in excess, is a calcium inhibitor. Minute quantities of ethylene glycol are also used, acknowledged in the soft drink business for making it really “chill.” Ethylene glycol is popularly known as anti-freeze.
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Personal Health in Times of Global Change
May 21, 2008
myhotel Chelsea, London, UK, London, UK
The medicines of the future will embrace the best aspects of modern science and traditional wisdom. Modern medical systems are collapsing from the pressures of those facing life threatening illnesses and the demands made on an antiquated system of impersonal reductionism. Individual human potential and specific personal needs have been almost totally forgotten.
As society shifts its focus to newer, integrative models of health care, mountains of conflicting information about how to approach health and sickness can leave people confused and frustrated rather than empowered and revitalized.
These three evening talks, taken individually or as a series, offer clear, practical insight and useful recommendations to maintain your health or recover from illness. Because human beings are whole, comprised of body, mind and spirit, we must be aware of each.
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House as a Living Being
April 13, 2008
Macrobiotic Institute of Portugal, Lisbon, Portugal, Lisbon, Portugal
Our senses inform us of the elements of place. What we see, hear, smell, taste and touch communicates harmony or discord. Many people interested in feng shui, distracted by a fascination with style and interior design, have sacrificed their sense of balance in favor of discordant energies that follow popular trends and employ mystical charms.
To make effective changes that endure the test of time, it is essential to understand our homes as living organisms made up of interconnected cells, organs and systems that breathe, contract, expand and pulse vitality through our every day lives. Our health and sickness is mirrored in our environment; as such, our dwellings either support our health or diminish it.
This course explores the correlation between feng shui and health, looking closely at the way in which our environments relate to cancer, auto-immune disease, depression and chronic fatigue. Specific examples of house and room shapes, and furniture styles seen from the perspectives of the Five Transformations illuminate the teachings, together with an understanding of the body’s organs and systems correlated to living spaces.
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Eastern Thought, Diet and Cosmology
November 17, 2007
The Graduate Institute, Connecticut, Connecticut
Experiential, instructional evening preparing a class meal in accordance with macrobiotic principles to illustrate that food has a powerful influence on our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. Macrobiotics offers a way to experience that everything in nature is connected. Comparisons to make healthy choices are made between ingredient sources and quality, Yin/Yang balance, utensils, cutting techniques and cooking options (gas as opposed to electric, for instance) are some of the topics explored.
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Tendency Number of the 9 Star Ki
October 28, 2007
Feng Shui Alliance, New Jersey, New Jersey
An understanding of the third number in the 9 Star Ki (sometimes referred to as the “Tendency Number”), helps to understand one’s karmic destiny. It is the quality of this number that carries our karma, or soul’s coding or destiny; therefore, it is extremely important to take into consideration both in our own self-reflection and personal life as well as in individual consultations. Few people are aware of the deeper significance and meaning of this third number and its relevance to health, Life’s journey and realigning our true purpose.
Many different forms of astrology may be used in the application of feng shui. Although no one system is superior to another and each has its own specific benefit, the Nine Star method is uniquely suited to Intuitive Feng Shui®. There are 108 possible configurations for each gender (9 x 12) with which a feng shui consultant needs to become at least generally familiar. This weekend workshop reveals these elegant cosmic teachings.
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Creating A New Paradigm for Shelter
September 28, 2007
International Conscious Design Conference, Parsippany, New Jersey, Parsippany, New Jersey
Keynote address the Habitat for Humanity benefit dinner.
Three areas of our lives have no equal in terms of our daily survival and healthy evolution. Most of us are becoming more conscious about the food we eat and the water we drink, but until very recently, few have given much thought to the importance of shelter. As its primary mission, Habitat For Humanity seeks to eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world, and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action. We all share that vision and celebrate their extraordinary achievements we can do even more!
Part of the body of knowledge we all know as feng shui holds enormous potential in making a significant contribution to Habitat’s goal both in real dollars, because of our commitment to make the world a better place, and in the currency of our practical understanding of healthy building practices. What would our future be like if Habitat’s vision to create a “decent shelter” included such things as an understanding of wise color choices for happiness, proper placement of doorways and stairs for prosperity and conscious alignment of beds and kitchen appliances for optimum health?
Join us for an evening of shared commitment, wonderful entertainment and a unified intention to make a difference in the world where human beings, nature and the homes we build converge in the spirit of heartfelt service.
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Sustainability and Green Design
January 28, 2007
New England School of Feng Shui, Connecticut, Connecticut
As the pace of life quickens and the world around us becomes more chaotic and toxic, we all yearn to live a more peaceful, natural existence in harmony with our immediate environment. Making socially responsible choices has moved far beyond simply recycling bottles; right inside our own homes opportunities abound to improve our health, transform our relationship to the earth and create real sustainability for our families and our communities. Utilize the practice of feng shui to make effective changes that endure the test of time, integrating the most current applications of sustainable design practices.
Topics will include transitioning to sustainability, alternative energy systems, green materials, permaculture and healthy living spaces. Whether you are a novice or professional, the weekend will bring clarity and insight, adding new resources to your life, practice and future.
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Essential Elements of Feng Shui for Healthy Development
November 15, 2006
Developmental Delay Resources, New York, NY, New York, NY
Modern design based upon easily applied feng shui principles can benefit children in many important ways. At a time when obesity, diabetes, asthma and learning challenges are all on the rise, it is crucial to seek, understand, and implement environmental design solutions that address these concerns. Come learn how simple, practical changes in children’s environments can make a huge difference toward healthy development.
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Designing From the Inside Out: The Inner Bagua of Intuitive Feng Shui®
November 15, 2006
Emerson College, East Sussex, UK, East Sussex, UK
Commonly considered an art of placement or synonymous to interior decorating, feng shui is, according to William Spear “really the study of infinity — the study of consciousness outside of the structures of time and space. We choose to live inside those structures, but the more we can incorporate the wisdom of the bigger picture, the more in touch with life we will be.”
While bed and desk locations are key elements to “external” feng shui, it is the architecture of consciousness — the inner feng shui — that distinguishes placements that endure the test of time. William Spear offers an in-depth exploration of the inner nature of feng shui. As each “house” of the bagua is explored, together with the symbolism of the corresponding I Ching trigram, the underlying harmony of our inner life is revealed. We can discover the nature of the connections, and learn what is necessary in our own self-development to remove obstructions and change fixed patterns of behavior.
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Feng Shui: Community and Purpose
June 16, 2006
Oliver Wolcott Public Library, Litchfield, Connecticut, Litchfield, Connecticut
Acknowledging many perspectives, feng shui holds great potential to create harmony and balance in the community. It can be applied for both individual and collective purposes. Come explore these ancient teachings beyond the world of right/wrong and dualism.
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Care for the Caregiver
May 4, 2006
Mayflower Inn and Spa, Washington, Connecticut, Washington, Connecticut
In many medical oriented settings and even spas, in spite of the presence of compassionate and caring personnel, ill patients are often left with unmet needs. Quantitative considerations tend to occupy most of the care providers’ time, leaving little or none for attention to the quality of the patient’s life. Important questions are seldom adequately addressed, such as how to allow the process to be humane, what to look for and talk about, or how to be with an ill person. Working effectively with people facing serious illness cannot be fully learned through a mental process in a lecture hall or by reading books. Most of what really matters in dealing with the “spiritual health” of another person can be achieved through two interrelated paths: honest self-confrontation, and a willingness to go beyond the framework of conceptual process.
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Recovering Original Ability
April 24, 2006
Neighborhood Unitarian Universalist Church, Pasadena, California, Pasadena, California
This workshop aims to reconnect participants to the simplicity and joy of being fully present in the moment – to reconnect to our clear and vibrant life force, to our original ability. We come into the world with full potential: as infants we are open to all possibility and our innate energy is entirely available. As time passes, we accumulate ‘baggage,’ our life experiences can pull us away from our innate resources, creating resistance in our energy flow and, over time, closing us off to the magic of our aliveness. Like a magnetic pull towards a newborn baby, we are all drawn to that pure essence of openness and aliveness – a natural, pure state of being.
Through experiential exercises, in an atmosphere of unconditional support, participants release energy blockages that remain from past experiences and reconnect to their intuition and vitality. With movement, music, breathing, and guided meditation, we explore the vital life force inside each of us. Contacting this energy allows us to reopen the heart to the elegant richness within that centers and energizes us, so that our original ability can re-emerge with renewed life. To ensure continuity and completion of the process, please commit to attending the entire day.
This workshop is open to everyone. It has proven especially beneficial to people coping with illness or grief, healthcare professionals and those who deal with suffering and/or loss on a regular basis. The workshop draws much of its material from the personal transformational work of The Passage, the five-day intensive retreat that William Spear has been conducting internationally since 1986.
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Feng Shui in Home Design
March 4, 2006
The Connecticut Home Show, Hartford, Connecticut, Hartford, Connecticut
For the professional home builder, feng shui is a set of design principles that take into account all aspects of a structure: siting on the land, shape, building materials, angles and positions of doors, windows, staircases, fixtures and furnishings, textures and colors. The goal is to create harmonious, safe, and non-toxic structures that also engender positive emotional response in the homeowner. The art and science of feng shui has been applied in Asia for thousands of years and is enjoying recognition by Western architects, designers, homeowners and builders as a holistic approach to well-being and quality of life in our environments.
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5 Wishes – How to prepare a living will for family, friends and loved ones
November 14, 2005
Litchfield Community Center, Connecticut, Connecticut
- What do you want your loved ones to know?
- Have you planned ahead to address your personal, emotional and spiritual needs?
- Do family members know whom you wish to make decisions about your comfort and personal needs?
- Is everyone clear about your medical requests?
- Whom would you like with you the end of your life?
The presenter, William Spear, is the founder of the Fortunate Blessings Foundation, a non-faith-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that offers innovative educational programs for well-being. Courses focus on personal transformation, self-development, health and environmental awareness. He has been active in the field of end-of-life counseling for over thirty years, supporting each individual’s unique choices at the end of life with honor and respect.
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End-of-Life Care and Human Potential
September 17, 2005
Macrobiotic Institute of Portugal, Lisbon, Portugal, Lisbon, Portugal
With the passing of years, horizons tend to close in, spirits sag, and the weight of unpleasant experiences can be oppressive. Eventually, conscious and unconscious emotional baggage interferes with our authenticity, making it hard to be free of personal, familial and societal distortions. Maintaining our health means we must be able to release unhealthy energy blockages in order to allow new possibilities, harmony and balance; in fact, this is the real aim of feng shui in both our physical surroundings and our bodies. William Spear has found that clearing the energy blockages in our lives to be more powerful than performing feng shui in the environment, with longer lasting effects. Feng shui actually has less to do with the material world than with our infinite inner space and the awareness of our consciousness beyond the confines of time and space.
William Spear’s three decades of experience with feng shui and working with people in difficult, unusual and/or life threatening situations reveal valuable lessons and practical tools. His teachings help individuals accept “what is” in life and openly address the questions of human potential and the end of life (yours and that of others) with courage, compassion, humor and deep wisdom. Using some experiential exercises to gently open the heart, this weekend seminar is useful for people of all ages and diverse backgrounds who embrace every aspect of life as yet another miracle.
Caring for others at the end of life is one of the most challenging and intimate endeavors we can ever undertake. How can we increase our ability to make a difference in the world while opening our hearts and minds to the reality of life’s final chapter? By looking at your life now and releasing restrictions from your past that influence your present and future, you gain the ability to live unconditionally. Our actual avoidance of facing death and dying in real terms is overshadowed by the media’s overwhelming focus on war, murder and violent death in both virtual terms (movies, television, video games, etc) and current events. Has this numbed our senses or helped us prepare for life’s end?
This 2-day workshop brings the practice of unconditional presence into the body and the psyche.
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Open Heart, Deep Spirit
May 29, 2005
Upaya Zen Retreat, Santa Fe, New Mexico, Santa Fe, New Mexico
This weekend retreat focuses on the path of destiny and the practice of unconditional service to others. Participation is contingent on acceptance into the program, and on completion of at least one Passage. This is neither a “sequel” nor a “next-level” Passage
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Intuitive Feng Shui®
May 28, 2005
Coco Kreole Hotel, St. Lucia, Caribbean, St. Lucia, Caribbean
The study of Intuitive Feng Shui® reveals why we instinctively feel more comfortable in some places than others. In this empowering and experiential course you will learn simple, effective principles and techniques to enhance your relationships, prosperity, health, and very sense of purpose in life. Learn to use the bagua to take stock of your living and working spaces; understand the five energies of change; discover methods to release trapped energy and generate the most beneficial flow.
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Real Life, Real People: Intuitive Feng Shui® in Practice
April 3, 2005
Feng Shui Alliance, New Jersey, New Jersey
To truly become an effective practitioner, you must be grounded in an intuitive understanding of the universal principles inherent in all cultures. Exploring the origins of these theories helps the practitioner to integrate this timeless wisdom as a lifestyle, taking real action to bring about positive, lasting results. This weekend course brings together the many facets of feng shui under the banner of what William Spear has termed Intuitive Feng Shuiâ, a discipline and practice that harmonizes the many diverse approaches to this subject appropriate for our culture at this time.
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Feng Shui and Children: Creating Environments for Future Generations
October 11, 2004
Golden Gate School of Feng Shui, San Francisco, California, San Francisco, California
When a child is overly sensitive, lethargic, nervous, withdrawn, impatient or otherwise mal-adjusted, altering his environment according to feng shui energetics often results in significant behavioral improvements. The knowledge and application of feng shui is especially valuable when applied to a child’s bedroom and classroom, taking into account the uniqueness of each child and family. Environmental psychologists and feng shui consultants have observed similar truths; namely that colors, materials, shapes and furniture placement strongly effect emotional and physical well-being. This workshop, oriented to the specific characteristics of children, is of benefit to parents, siblings, grandparents, teachers, nurses, social workers, day-care centers and everyone with a child in their life.
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Feng Shui: The Inner and Outer World of a Child
October 8, 2004
ChildSpirit 2004, Pacific Grove, California, Pacific Grove, California
Feng shui and the art of placement are commonly considered to take into account physical objects in the material world. To achieve better health, finances, relationships, and careers, the feng shui consultant works with space (geography, orientation, direction, placement) within the context of time (movements of the sun and moon, astronomy, astrology). The resulting adjustments are meant to improve the overall life of the client.
Feng shui actually has less to do with the external world than with our infinite inner space, which is the awareness of our consciousness beyond the confines of time and space. Feng shui clears the path for energy to flow, and opens space that we may think is not even there – especially the internal and external worlds. We live inside the structures of our homes in time and space, but the more we incorporate the wisdom of the bigger picture, the more in touch with life we become.
If we use feng shui only for external applications, we disregard its original nature, which was the alignment of internal spirit, the architecture of our consciousness and being, standing between heaven and earth. Forgetting this, we live in illusion. Feng shui emerged from the teachings of the I Ching, the heart of Taoism, which speaks to our inner world through the higher self. The I Ching addresses the spiritual dimensions inside us, the place where we can all experience our common unity. It operates from the realization that we are each a reflection of each other within a universal source, and prompts us to ask, “How can we improve things for the mutual benefit of all?” When feng shui is practiced from this premise, it is a unique approach to interior design.
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Sex, Intimacy and the 9 Stars
June 21, 2004
Makronova Centar, Zagreb, Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
The Nine Star Ki is an ancient yet practical form of astrology based upon an in depth understanding of the nature of the eight trigrams of the I Ching and their unique symbolism in all of life. When applied to human sexuality and intimacy, the Nine Star Ki reveals unique characteristics of both a physical nature and broader psychological typologies. Beginning with a basic overview of each of the natal personalities, the course will delve more deeply into the hidden characteristics of sexuality, leading to a fascinating understanding of how our sexual natures are influenced by these inborn tendencies. Participants will also learn ways to support each personality type, both physically and emotionally, to foster harmony and deeper intimacy in every relationship.
