spellmakernovitiates

Through Thinking there is Knowledge!

Meditation predates history and has been devoted as a practice of worship by Hindus’ and Buddhists.  It wasn’t until 1500 BC that notations and records were kept mentioning meditation.

In the Middle Ages the Japanese Buddhists Monks took Meditation a step farther with chanting, which by the way is still practiced today.  The notes from the chanting are directly affiliated with our chakra and found to be soothing. 

Judaism introduced meditation into Hasidic practices and also in Kabala, which is Judaic mysticism.

The Jewish population weren’t the only fractioned of Mysticism though mediation, so were Islam.  This was called Sufism, which is a practice of breathing and thinking at the same time.  Islam believed “though thinking there is knowledge”.

Eastern and Western Christians also participated in mediation.  It is believed the eastern Christians were introduced to mediation by the Greeks and Japanese.  The practice of repeating or chanting “Jesus prayer” was widely used to undergo trance.

The western Christian Benedictine Monks also developed their own chanting based on Christian teachings at the time.  This was further developed by Saint Ignatius of Loyola. 

In Voodoo Practice there is music available to help you channel into a strong mediation.  It takes some practice, and there are classes available to help you along, once you know how to meditate, you can do it anywhere, in an airport, even at work (maybe not).

If you are a beginner or don’t meditate often, quite is key.  Lighting white candles and incense will allow you to sink into your meditation and shut the world out.   While in your meditation you may want to speak to one LWA, or all of the LWA, your ancestors, or a dear friend who may not be here any longer.

Meditation also has health benifits too, it reduces blood pressure!!!

XOXO, Khouzhan Ann

www.spellmaker.com

Not Such a Lonely Place

by Khouzhan Phoenix

I'm traveling on business this week and have been on a hectic schedule of training, meetings, and dinners with folks from the home office.  By the time I drag my mentally exhausted self into my hotel room each night, I have just enough energy to undress and crawl into bed.

There, I might succumb to loneliness.  I'm miles away from home, in a big, empty, king-size bed -- quite a change of scene from someone used to sleeping on the edge of a full-size mattress, snuggled against three big, warm, dogs.  My HD, my friends, and all I hold dear are so far away, and the time difference prevents me from making a late phone call or two.

Well, a few years ago, I would indeed be lonely.  However, since discovering Voodoo and the Spellmaker family, loneliness doesn't cripple me as before.  My Love Doll came along with me on this trip; at night, I cuddle the doll and speak softly to my beloved through it... though he is miles away, I still feel close to him.  I've also brought along my Erzulie Freda and Damballah Voodoo charms, so that I can call upon these spirits for help and comfort.  When I have a spare moment  to get online, I can visit the Spellmaker Forum and feel close to my Voodoo family and fellow Spellmaker clients who are going through many of the same things as I am.  And as I fall into bed and reach for my Love Doll, I have a chat with my Met Tet, who is always there to reassure me.  And, best of all, I have the 2010 Voodoo Video Conference to look forward to when I return home!

So tonight, my last night in a strange city before returning home, I say a prayer of thanks for the Lwa, the Spellmaker family, and Mambo Sam, who have made my world a less lonely place!

Ayibobo!

Khouzhan Phoenix ♥

www.spellmaker.com