Posts Tagged ‘zen’

Astrology Soul Coach Cosmic Dance for April 2013

Monday, April 1st, 2013

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Happy New Year! No I’m not behind – I’m talking about the Astrological Year which began on the Vernal Equinox. On March 20th, the Sun was re-born in the courageous, innovative and pioneering sign of Aries. This fire sign is inspirational, spontaneous, fearless, and independent and yes, often unpredictable.

As several of the planets including Venus, Mars, Mercury and Uranus are also refueling in Aries, spring fever is upon us. And ‘spring cleaning’ is the least of it! Aries is undaunted by obstacles and enjoys being the initiator. But the cosmos does not plan to have the youthful and inexperienced Aries making all the decisions this month. A Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on the 25th is one of the first, but unmistakable signs, our best interests are not served by an attitude or approach of ‘full steam ahead’. Not unless we care to emulate the fate of the indomitable but unfortunate Titanic, which by the way, met its misadventure in April a century ago.

When the earth stands between the Sun and Full Moon, it is a harbinger of change – often endings or culmination points. This particular eclipse spotlights issues associated with Taurus – the need to own, accumulate, and collect, and Scorpio – our need to cleanse, purify, heal and release. This is the month to give serious consideration to everything in your life – from relationships to the salt and pepper set on the kitchen counter. How do the people and things in your life reflect you and your values? Be honest with yourself and release what is no longer working and open up to your future. Although you may not be able to replace the loveseat that reminds you of your old boyfriend, do what is possible to recycle and release. Then treat yourself to something within your budget that reflects your dreams for your future. How about a salt lamp? Earthy and practical Taurus will approve both the function and beauty and Scorpio will appreciate the cleansing and spiritual properties. Make all your decisions winning ones this month with a conscious approach.

C.A. Brooks is a clairvoyant astrologer, writer, speaker and coach
You can find her at 12Listen.com and read her weekly astrology column in Mark’s Power Peek at 12House.com. She hosts a daily radio show “A Course in Miracles Daily Lessons” on 12Radio.com at 7am Pacific – 10 Eastern. You can also tune into her weekly Astrology radio program, Simpletales, on 12Radio.com every Tuesday 11am Pacific – 2 Eastern.

ca@cabrooks.com

http://www.facebook.com/cabrooks2

Zen and the Art of the Shoji Screen

Monday, June 1st, 2009

Shoji Four-Panel Screen

What can a Shoji screen do for your home décor?

Well, if you need a peaceful and meditative space within your home, away from the clutter and noise, a Japanese Shoji screen may be the answer.

What is a Shoji screen?

By creating a subtle division within a room, these decorative, unobtrusive room dividers can make any space more graceful, elegant and private. A Shoji screen makes an interesting and unusual accent in any room.

Also known as privacy screens, Shoji screens are constructed with a trellis-like wooden panel. Each square or rectangular opening is then covered in Shoji. Shoji is usually made from smooth, translucent, vinyl-coated fiberglass, which gives the appearance of rice paper.

How are they used?

A Shoji screen is portable and lightweight, easily folding into three panels. This can be helpful in creating a mobile, secluded workspace almost anywhere in the home. Using a Shoji screen will make a portion of a room private, while still a part of the main room.

Some people choose a Shoji screen to hide an unsightly closet, or cover a window which has an unpleasant view. It will also enhance the overall look of the space.

A Shoji screen can offer a certain degree of sun protection too, making them useful in south-facing rooms. By diffusing the light in an overly bright space, the screen creates more ambient lighting and improves the room’s appearance.

These Japanese screens are available in a variety of wood finishes, panel designs and sizes, so everyone should be able to find the perfect one for their home.