What Seeks You

Creative Nudge Fridays is here!

We're opening our awareness to what is seeking us.

As we go about our daily happenings we know what we like, are drawn to, and gravitate toward. This flow is deeply recharging for our spirit. Yet it can also hinder our divine flow when we lock into what we know we are drawn to as being the only thing(s) we like!

In the wise words of Rumi, "What you seek is seeking you."

Here is a nudge to help you surrender to your divine flow and open to greater possibility.

Breathe in these words: What I seek is seeking me.

Then allow that which you seek, to seek you this weekend.

Be present to the now moment and see what is drawn into your life right now without you seeking it out.

To remind yourself that the things that truly wish to be found on your path always find a way to show up, take a pic of something which symbolises this energy. Then use the pic as your screen saver or wallpaper on your phone or computer.

If you give the nudge a go, comment below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page. If you share your nudge pics via Twitter or Instagram use the tag #creativenudgefridays so we can find you.

Create on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Venus and a Crescent Moon

The view from here. Venus and a waxing crescent Moon in Sagittarius. It's a brilliant time to allow a greater sense of lightness to enter your heart (especially if it is feeling otherwise).

Here is a Moon Mantra to help you do just that:

I breathe life in with light, 
filling my heart with love. 
I breathe it all out with love, 
filling my being with light

Meditate on this mantra, or use it as a positive affirmation by repeating it quietly within or aloud. To extend on its message, write it down in your journal and say it to yourself - tune in to how it feels within your body and note it down. Express it out in whatever way feels good to you.

I'd love to hear from you. What helps you feel a greater sense of lightness in your heart? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Sacred Hearth

30 September to 6 October 2013; 'Sacred Hearth', an intuited sketch from my soul with a message for the week ahead.

A golden hearth built of ancient stardust holds sacred your inner fire that sparked (from your higher spark) when you birthed into the world. 

It burns bright, fuelled by oxygen and love. It is soul sustenance, spirit warming and no matter where you are, it goes with you.

No matter whether you are conscious of it or not, it burns on.

And, you are the keeper of the fire.

What you fuel your inner fire with, is what fuels you and the home of your beingness.

Imagine you have an actual hearth in your physical home (perhaps you actually do). Imagine this hearth warms your heart. Its flames soothe your mind and its radiant light is like calming balm for your emotions. Its gentle crackle relaxes your muscles and its familiar scent wafts away any tension. When needed it allows you to release a healing sweat from your pores, cleansing your whole self. Remembering that which you fuel the fire with is that which fuels you, how would you choose to fuel this fire? With natural and safe fuels or hazardous materials?

So, how do you choose to fuel your inner fire? With mindful or toxic fuels? With love or resentment? Gratitude or blame? Inspiration or mediocrity? Flow or stuckness? Trust or doubt? Faith or false control? As the keeper of the fire, you get to choose each day.

This week, tune in to the state of your sacred hearth. 

Is there a flicker of a flame or is your inner fire burning ablaze? Is it welcoming and warming? What might it need from you to be even more welcoming and warming? Notice how you fuel your inner fire, and how it fuels you.

Your inner fire is a transformational shapeshifter. If at any moment you choose to change how you fuel your inner fire, it will change how it fuels you and your world.

I'd love to hear from you. How do you fuel your inner fire? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Reach Toward Possibility

Creative Nudge Fridays is here!

We're reaching further.

Our ability to expand into our highest possibilities is in direct relationship with how far we think we can extend ourselves. As Henry Ford said, "If you think you can or think you can't, you're right". These words always remind me of a stretching exercise I learnt many moons ago.

1. Stand with your feet firmly on the ground. Lift one arm up straight in front of you (at a right angle to your body) with your index finger pointing ahead (like you are pointing to the horizon). Without moving your feet, gently swing your arm around as far as it can go - allow your head and upper body to follow in a twist-like motion. Stretch yourself as far as you can go (without any harm to yourself of course). Go as far as you are sure is your furthest possible point - take note of the *exact* spot your index finger is pointing to (you'll be referring back to it). And relax, bring yourself back to centre. *You can also do this while sitting on the floor, as long as there is space behind you to extend out your arm.

2. Next, do the exercise (still standing or sitting in the same place), but this time close your eyes and only imagine it. In your mind's eye imagine you are ultra flexible like rubber and can turn your upper body around full circle, then back again. See yourself being able to do this with ease. Imagine the full-circle twist a couple of times to really get a sense that this is completely possible.

3. Open your eyes and repeat step 1. Do the exercise with your eyes open (again, still standing or sitting in the same place). Now note the *exact* spot where your finger is pointing to this time around.

Notice a difference?

Initially we go as far as we think is our limit. We are sure we can not possibly go any further. But when we stretch ourselves into the possibility that we can go even further… we do.

To remind yourself that if you think you can, you can, take a pic of something that represents the word 'possibility' to you. Then use the pic as your screen saver or wallpaper on your phone or computer.

If you give the nudge a go, comment below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page. If you share your nudge pics via Twitter or Instagram use the tag #creativenudgefridays so we can find you.

Create on, Jelena x

p.s. Get ready to expand into more of you who are! My NEW ecourse A Return to Self starts November 1. Stay tuned for details.

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Spread Your Wings

23-29 September 2013; 'Spread Your Wings', this morning's intuited sketch from my soul with a message for the week ahead.

The colour-filled and calm winged one arrived to remind the self, 'this way up!'. 

This way to the highest vision of yourself and your life. Spread your wings, let go of the outcome and be free (from within) to see the heights they are capable of (up)lifting you to.

We're working with the notion here that you have a pair of wings. Well, you do. The more you know this the more you can work with them and spread them wide to help shift yourself beyond old patterns, inner-tensions and self-doubts. Sounds too fanciful? Remember, you are a miracle happening on an organic life-supporting rock hurling through an ever-expanding Universe at the precisely the exact speed to keep you on it.

Your soul has a pair of wings, and while you are here they are located right in between your shoulder blades. They move in tune with your whole beingness.

Here is an exercise you can do to Open Your Wings right now; 

Take a moment to sit or stand comfortably (if the only spare moment you have today is in the bathroom, that's as good a place as any!). And inhale slowly and deeply (bring your breath all the way down to your abdomen and allow it to fill up like a balloon). And exhale, releasing all the stale air. Again, inhale deeply and slowly, this time become aware of your chest expanding. And exhale. One more time, inhale deeply and slowly and as you do see your wings puff wide open behind you. And exhale. A note, some of you will be able to visualise this process. Others might need to imagine it is happening, like you are pretending and that is okay. Or you can work with the words and allow the process to happen in whatever way feels right for you.

Whenever our chest aka heart chakra feels it has room (is allowed) to breathe, your wings shoot open even if your arms are by your side. Whenever you trust your heart they shoot open (I'm told it's their favourite method). Whenever you follow through on your inner knowing or centre yourself in your truth within, your wings shoot open. Whenever you are expressing yourself authentically, feeling gratitude and in a state of calm, they shoot open. When you invest in self-care, they yes shoot open.

Our wings are also our helpers. Especially when we don't know which way to go or when it feels too overwhelming to shift yourself from where you feel you are at to where you wish to be. Whenever we find it challenging to trust our hearts, are doubting our own selves or feeling displaced from within, what is the one thing we must all keep doing? Breathing. The more you tune into your breath, the breath itself can help relax your chest. Keep breathing. And your wings will puff open to help you.

This week, spread your brilliant wings. 

We're not talking about being showy in order to prove our worth to others, we talking about showing up for ourselves, showing up as who we really are (which means having the courage to be vulnerable). If you are doubting your worth or who you are right now, breathe through it. Puff those wings open that will show you otherwise. You can do it. *If you are new to your wings, test them out. Practice with the breathing exercise and notice how this changes your mood and mode of being.

I'd love to hear from you. How do your brilliant wings assist you? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

p.s. while doing this sketch I unconsciously flipped my art journal around, thus it's upside-down in relation to the rest of the book. Sometimes things (need to) appear upside-down in order to be seen in a new light and thus (re)turned right-side-up. Including our own self x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Being in the Flow

Creative Nudge Fridays is here!

We're being in the flow.

Giving ourselves permission to let go of old emotions allows us to respond to current happenings in a new way. It's emotional channel clearing goodness. Here is another way to nurture your own flow. Find a flow imprint in nature, such as; grooves in the sand, ripples in water, wind blowing across a field, dappled light on the ground or whatever speaks to you of flow in nature.

Then, be in it. Include yourself in this flow imprint you find in nature. See yourself and your energy as a part of this flow.

If it's not possible to include yourself physically, imagine you are a part of it in your mind's eye. 

Notice how flowing you feel in relationship to the flow imprint in nature. If you like you can explore this further in your journal by asking 'what message do you have for me?' and writing down what comes to you. Or artwork out your response.

To remind yourself that your inner flow is a part of nature's flow, take a pic of your flow imprint in nature. Then use the pic as your screen saver or wallpaper on your phone or computer.

If you give the nudge a go, comment below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page. If you share your nudge pics via Twitter or Instagram use the tag #creativenudgefridays so we can find you.

Create on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Clearing Emotional Channels

Hello Full Moon in Pisces. The lunar energies are splashing our faces with fresh (albeit even icy) cold water as a divine wake up call to our current emotions. Whether you are feeling 'woo!', 'whoa!' or 'what the!', check in with the feelings moving through you right now. What are they wanting to gift you? Fluid like water, emotions are in constant motion - and the Moon in Pisces is particularly surfacing old emotions to be healed and released. With an old emotion, the feeling itself will be familiar to you (so much so you may be thinking 'why am I feeling this again!'), though now is an opportunity to move through it in a brand new way.

Clear your emotional channels with this Moon Mantra;

It is safe for me to let go of my old emotions. 
I love and appreciate my emotional guidance system. 
My feelings flow perfectly at all times.

Meditate on this mantra, or use it as a positive affirmation by repeating it quietly within or aloud. To extend on its message, write it down in your journal and say it to yourself - tune in to how it feels within your body and note it down. Express it out in whatever way feels good to you.

I'd love to hear from you. What are some of the ways you clear your emotional channels? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Inner Eye Open

16-22 September 2013; 'Inner Eye Open', this morning's intuited sketch from my soul with a message for the week ahead.

There are an infinite number of ways to view the self and what is known as reality. 

Reality is what-is-real for you in any given moment. Yet we can dedicate so much of our energy and effort to one version of reality, the mainstream version. It's the one the majority conform to (the majority of our personal clan, work tribe or greater community), which does not make it the only reality nor the one where your soul most thrives in. When others insist you need to get with reality, it's simply a request to get with the reality they are most familiar with, believe in or have been told or taught they must align to. You know, in order to be enough; worthy enough, loved enough, good enough. But of course your inner eye already sees you as all those things no matter what.

When you live in your truth - and nurture that connection - it is more easeful to recognise and respect other people's reality (without necessarily needing to demolish your reality or pack up and move right into theirs). There is no right or wrong reality, there's the reality that resonates with your truth. Different versions of reality can and do harmoniously co-exist all the time. Though our mind, doubts or old ways of being might like to convince us otherwise.

Your inner eye is whatever it means to you, it might be; the view from your spirit, the perspective from your heart, your wisdom within, your soul's truth or inner knowing. Our inner eye sees with love, kindness, gratitude and patience. It is a guiding force that sees what is true for you right now, sans judgement.

This week zoom in on what your inner eye is seeing. 

You might also like to pay attention to what reality you are subscribing to. How are you perceiving yourself and the goings-on in your outer world? Are you seeing through doubt or faith? Is your lens blurred from stress and fatigue or made clear by inner-breathing-space and calm? Is your view of self and life shaky or grounded?

Our inner eye has seen where we have come from, it knows exactly where we are at and sees our next step with clarity. Whenever you feel unclear, unsettled, sidetracked or think you have lost your way, use those moments as an invitation to go within and check in with what your inner eye is seeing.

Your inner eye sees you with love. The more you are able to love (and receive) what it sees, the more you see (and receive) what you love.

I'd love to hear from you. How do you connect to what your inner eye is seeing? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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The Shapeshifter

9-15 September 2013; 'The Shapeshifter', Monday's intuited sketch from my soul with a message for the week ahead.

The shapeshifter surfaced as 'She with the fox mask' to say not all masks hide who we are. 

Some masks gift us the exact dose of courage we need to throw off what we have been using as an excuse to make ourselves smaller, less than and unloveable (first to ourselves then with others). These kinds (of kind) self-empowering self-strengthening masks remind us that we always have what we need, which includes courage to reveal our soul truth (first to ourselves then others). To shed like fur or hair that which we no longer are and give light to our vulnerability.

To be vulnerable is to transcend the heaviness that would have otherwise hid your you-ness (yes, first from ourselves then others).

To be vulnerable is to show up as yourself and let yourself be seen. She with the fox mask reminds us that sometimes showing up as ourselves means to hear the call from within that only we can hear. The call that guides us to retreat into our inner world and embark on a journey to our core. The more we familiarise ourselves with this inner path home, the more easeful and direct we can tap into the inner knowing that resides there. She with the fox mask reminds us to deepen this connection with the unseen world, that of our own intuition, inner creative force and the call for transformation into a new way of being from within. Deep inner work is concealed from the outer world at first and can appear as if little to no movement forward has or is being made.

Even in silence, solitude or at a standstill the inner creative force is always in motion.

This week, strengthen your self-trust. Trust with your heart. Trust with your you-ness. Trust that as you are changing, shifting and evolving from within, your outer world is also dancing to the same rhythm, shifting to match your new ways and vibration - as you show up more (and more) as yourself and let yourself be seen.

The more you allow your inner knowing to surface, the sharper it becomes. Like a fox, it is crafty for a reason because it is the stuff from which you shape-shift yourself from old and/or false definitions of self and into your soul's truth in the now (new) moment.

She with the fox mask has an additional note on fur and hair; They are ancient symbols of energy and fertility, and changing it can help change the expression of our own creative life force. Hence we feel anew with a hair cut or change, regardless of how subtle or drastic it is.

I'd love to hear from you. What masks have helped strengthen aspects within you? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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The Rebirth

2-9 September 2013: 'The Rebirth', this morning's intuited sketch from my soul with a message for the week ahead.

What is inevitable for a seed pod? It must break open. 

The sacred enclosure transforms into an open gateway. The purpose of the pod rebirths, and births out a new embodiment of itself.

Imagine a seed pod that resisted to break open. A seed pod that believed it was not good enough to be more of its divine self. That chose to limit its own growth instead of allowing its true flow. That decided to well, stay shut. What then of its higher purpose to break open by breaking through its doubts, fears and inner critics? What if it dismissed, denied and pushed aside its innate direction to express itself (as itself)? The energy seeking to break open would begin to turn in and find an opening elsewhere. In a break down. On some level. Not because it was worthless, useless or a mistake. Because of course it is none of those things. But because no matter how determined a pod may be to remain shut, its true flow will always find a way to do exactly that, flow.

And so whenever chaos reigns, things feel 'shut' or one feels they are breaking-down, know this: your true flow is constantly... flowing. It is ever-present even in our most unclear and unsure moments.

This week notice how your true flow is flowing. Are you attempting to stay shut in an area of your life or are you answering the call to break open into more of your wholeness? Are you feeling worn down by limiting beliefs and false perceptions of the self or are you breaking-through their illusion? Are you grasping onto or releasing old definitions of your purpose and who you are?

The pod says rebirth is a time of releasing the newness already within you. Open to the fullness of your divine self.

I'd love to hear from you. What helps you consciously align with your flow? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Your Totem Animal

Creative Nudge Fridays is here!

When animal totems need to show up in your life, they find a way.

Right now I'm on a soul nourishing sojourn in the Upper Hunter (NSW, Australia). As those with me on Instagram (@jelenamrkich) and Facebook may know, I'm staying in a castle. I'm writing this in the tower room where earlier an eagle was flying directly overhead. This rather magical place is surrounded by wildlife. Thus a significant theme has been connection with the animal kingdom. So far I've connected with and seen; kangaroos, wild horses, wild deer, foxes, wombats, rabbits, bats and the bird clans including the eagle, ravens, tawny frogmouths, ibis', rosellas, currawongs, magpies, willy wagtails, swallows and blue wrens. Also bees, butterflies and dragonflies. And Bella, the cat of the castle.

As much as each animal has its own animal wisdom, collectively they also hold a message about one's own inner nature and wild self. Of course to receive meaningful messages from the animal kingdom it's not about how many creatures you see. It's about being open to the ones nudging for your attention now.

And this is the nudge. Notice which animal is asking for your attention now. Which creature is showing up regularly or which one are you strongly drawn to at the moment? What particular behaviours or characterises grab your attention? What about this creature is speaking to you? What might it be showing you about yourself? Open to receiving the message it has for you. If you like you can explore this further in your journal by asking 'what message do you have for me?' and writing down what comes to you. Or artwork out your response.

Working with animals as our guides can assist with our inner processes and help shed light on our current path. You may have a totem animal that has been with you most all of your life, while other totems show up with a specific message you need in that moment.

A note, when it's not possible or practical for an animal totem to show up in the physical, they can show up in symbolic ways too, such as via pics and imagery, the written and printed word or verbally say during a random chat or conversation. Alternatively you might choose to connect with the animal kingdom during meditation.

To remind yourself that the animal kingdom is always communicating with us, take a pic of your totem animal. Then use the pic as your screen saver or wallpaper on your phone or computer.

If you give the nudge a go, comment below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page. If you share your nudge pics via Twitter or Instagram use the tag #creativenudgefridays so we can find you.

Create on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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The Inner Compass

26 August to 1 September 2013: 'The Inner Compass', this morning's intuited sketch from my soul with a message for the week ahead.

The needle of a compass always points North. Wherever you are. 

Your inner compass always points North too. Wherever you are within. North being your divine direction, the direction of the highest vision of your life. It is the direction of your potential, your heart, soul and highest self.

You are answering the call of your North whenever you are attuned to (accepting, surrendering to and receiving) your flow. Whatever that looks like and feels like for you in the moment. The unseen flow of your life is always guiding you. It's unseen to our human eyes but sight is not our only sense. This week strengthen the connection with your senses. Pick one sense to pay attention to. You might notice your felt sense; like whether your chest feels open or constricted, or whether your stomach feels relaxed or tied up in knots. You could turn up the volume of your sixth sense, your intuition and take note of what it is telling you.

Your highest vision remains untouched by where you have come from, what you have done (or not done) and what you have been holding onto. It accepts your story and keeps right on expanding and evolving. Whenever you are unclear with where you are at, unsure what to do next or feeling disconnected from your highest vision - know your inner compass is ever-present within you. You are its centre. Your compass always points North, in your divine direction. You get to flow with it or you can choose to resist it. Let your senses inform you.

Engraved on the back of the compass are the words:

I trust my inner compass. I face and embrace my True North. I am on my rightful path.

And f-l-o-w. Northward.

I'd love to hear from you. What does northward feel like to you? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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To Be a Rainbow Lion

Creative Nudge Fridays is here!

This week I was a rainbow lion.

As kids adorning our faces with paint is pure joy. To transform into magical creatures, animals and superheroes. Face paint momentarily becomes a part of our skin. With it we step into a certain character or a new aspect. One that might help us to have more courage, freedom and fun that we might otherwise embody on a day to day basis. This ancient practice is one way to consciously enter the realm of imagination. No matter our age it brings out our inner-child, opens our heart space and uplifts our whole self. As adults it invites us to take things less seriously or shake them off - especially any pressures and tensions we don't need to, but for whatever reason think we must, carry.

Face painting can help shift the story your body is holding right now.

For this nudge we are doing exactly that. Painting our face. I was a rainbow lion. What do you want to be? Your face painting might be a recognisable being or perhaps it's not. It could be; simple, elaborate, symmetrical, free form, tribal, contemporary, bold, subtle, multi-coloured or all in one hue. You can use ready-to-go face paints, make your own face paints or get creative with makeup. Be sure it is non-toxic and skin-friendly (check any labels as not all non-toxic paints mean skin-friendly).

A note, if you can, ask someone else to do this for you, like your partner, a family member or friend. If you have little ones in your life, hand the brush over to them!

To remind yourself that the aspects that surface when you paint your face are aspects already within you, take a pic of your face painting. Then use the pic as your screen saver or wallpaper on your phone or computer.

If you give the nudge a go, comment below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page. If you share your face painting pic via Twitter or Instagram use the tag #creativenudgefridays so we can find you.

Create on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to blog about this nudge or share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Your Next Step

Once in a blue moon, a Blue Moon arrives. And it's here.

Today's Full Moon in Aquarius is an astrological Blue Moon, with the last Full Moon on July 23 also in Aquarius. During a walk yesterday morning I passed a preschool, where a group of 4 year olds were playing a game outside. One kid was shouting at the top of his lungs to the other kids standing in a line in front of him, "Are! You! Reeeeeeady!". To which the kids responded as loud as they could, "Yeeeeeees!". He said it three times, saying it more like a statement of intent than a question. As it happened 'Miraculous Emergence' had literally been on my mind, the latest intuited sketch about being born ready. I looked around me, feeling like I was in the Truman Show. Three more Truman Show type experiences have happened for me over the past 24 hours.

A super charged reminder that: Everything is happening for us not to us. 

It's up to you which perspective you hold.

The current lunar energies are gifting us a double-powered opportunity to use what is surfacing in our lives right now (inside and out) to *help* not hinder our individual emergence into more of our wholeness. To emerge calls to let go of holding onto what no longer serves you, be it a fear, a resistance or a limiting belief. It might also include letting go of thinking you are not ready to really be your brilliant self or to radiate that out.

Here is a Moon Mantra to help show up for yourself:

I am ready to emerge. I am ready for my next step.

Meditate on this mantra, or use it as a positive affirmation by repeating it quietly within or aloud. To extend on its message, write it down in your journal and say it to yourself - tune in to how it feels within your body and note it down. Express it out in whatever way feels good to you.

And howl. Oh, I meant allow.

I'd love to hear from you. What helps you let go of fears and limiting beliefs? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Miraculous Emergence

'Miraculous Emergence', an intuited sketch from my soul with a message for the week ahead, 19-25 August 2013;

From mud and murky waters the lotus flower emerges immaculate. 

Imagine if a lotus flower decided to focus on the murky water, refusing or resisting to blossom until it had purified every drop it drank? Instead it is the murky water that washes the lotus clean. Not a spot of mud adheres to the lotus leaves as the lotus makes its way above the surface to bloom in the open air.

The lotus starts off as a seed in the mud. 

As it grows it does not throw the mud over its shoulder to make its own journey more burdensome or difficult. The lotus makes use of the mud by planting its roots firmly in the river bed. Are you shouldering the mud in your life? The lotus says leave the mud where it is, no need to carry it with you. The mud is there to support your path not direct it.

From the darkness beneath the surface the lotus frees itself. 

It was born ready to emerge into the light. Are you waiting until you are ready; ready to be you, ready to shine, or ready to be or do… anything? The lotus says you too were born ready to emerge. You have been emerging into more of who you are your entire life. Even when it might feel like you are doing everything but.

The birth of a lotus is a miracle (like you). Its emergence is miraculous (as is yours). 

Are you holding onto a belief that your life right now is (or your yesterday was) as good as it gets? The lotus says it gets even better. Look to the miracles in your everyday. The lotus knows they are everywhere. This week pay attention to the presence of miracles in your life. They can help us shift from old ways of surviving to new ways of thriving.

The lotus seeds above the petals remind the self that when we open to our deepest truth we unleash our highest potential.

Rise up to who you are, it's your natural direction.

I'd love to hear from you. What miracles are showing up for you right now? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Up, Up and Beyond

Creative Nudge Fridays is here!

We're expanding.

We are masterful at pulling ourselves down. Yet we are as masterful when we allow ourselves to be, to lift ourselves beyond limiting beliefs and what we once thought possible for ourselves.

Here is a nudge to remind you that each day gifts us the opportunity to raise our perspective - and expand into greater possibility. Literally look up. Look up to the sky and hand up your doubts, fears and concerns. The sky just like the ocean can help transmute any heavy energies we may be holding. The sky is continually letting go of everything - and constantly flowing. Clouds shift, rains fall, winds blow, thunder roars, lightening strikes, rainbows beam, sunlight streams - yet these things do not define the sky - and so it holds on to none of it. It lets it all be. It lets it all go.

Your energies are a part of this same divine flow. To explore this further, here a few questions to ask yourself or write down in your journal;
- Where might you be resisting flow in your life right now?
- Where can you allow more flow to happen in your life?
- Are you trusting your own divine flow? If you aren't but would like to, here is a mindful mantra: "I trust my deep inner knowing. I am aligned with my divine flow."

A note, shifting our energies requires our focus, intention, willingness, courage and deep inner work amongst many things. And yet sometimes it can be the most simplest things that expands us just enough to open to a new way of seeing things.

To remind yourself that your highest potential is boundless, take a pic of the sky. Then use the pic as your screen saver or wallpaper on your phone or computer.

If you give the nudge a go, comment below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page. If you share your nudge pic via Twitter or Instagram use the tag #creativenudgefridays so we can find you.

Create on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to blog about this nudge or share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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A Radiant Gem

'A Radiant Gem', an intuited sketch from my soul with a message for the week ahead, 12-18 August 2013;

A multi-faceted gem radiates (that's you), knowing each facet (of the self) is unique yet part of the same whole. There's a facet that wants facts first, and a facet that dares to dive into the unknown. There's a facet that seeks silence, and a facet that presses its face to the window eagerly awaiting the next thunder storm. There's a facet that loves to be filled to over-flowing, and a facet that desires to empty itself of all it is not. Who you are is not a collection of contradictions (or a mis-matched mess). Nor are you broken or faulty. You are a divinely crafted whole.

Inner-battles, struggles and self-sabotage momentarily blind our higher vision when we forget we hold it all. 

Your whole self is as you already are, whole. 

You are a beauty-filled multi-faceted whole. Each one of us are well-aware of the things that seem not-quite-right about us, inside and out. Gemstones do not seek to ignore, deny or dismiss one of its facets. Each facet is held sacred as part of the one beautiful whole.

As any facets show up this week that irk you, push you, bother you or bug you, let them be (without becoming them). There are facets within you that want, will and wish for opposing things. But not to start a war in your head and heart. Simply to remind you all things are possible. So, own the facets that tug at your sleeve. No, it doesn't mean you have to become them. If one facet is loudly protesting that it needs alone (all-one) time doesn't mean you must now become a monk or a nun. Allow them space to be. Listen to what they want to tell you. Hear the message they hold for you.

When our individual facets (especially the ones that are unsure, unclear and holding fear) are allowed to be, they release their resistance and naturally 'click' into place. You are beauty-filled. Beautiful. Whole.

You radiant multi-faceted gem you.

I'd love to hear from you. What facets of self are asking you to let them be right now? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Surrender Your Fill

Creative Nudge Fridays is here!

We're surrendering our fill.

Once or twice a year the Moon appears lit up from the bottom. When the 'horns' of the Moon point upward. This happens when the Moon travels straight down toward the horizon. Ancient sky-watchers saw this 'U' shape as representing a bowl that could fill up with the rain and snow of the winter season. Looking up at the sky tonight from where I stood, it looked exactly like that. A bowl or a sacred silver vessel ready to be filled to fullness with what one's soul truly desires.

Here is a nudge to creatively fill your cosmic cup. Take a sheet of paper and draw a bowl-like shape near the bottom of the page. Then, fill it up with your wishes and intentions for the coming month. Some wishes and intentions might feel very do-able, some might seem otherwise. Include them all. There are many things our current self views as impossible. In which case, feel free to remind your current self --> Impossible = I'm Possible.

Then, surrender your 'fill' to the Universe in whatever way calls you. You might want to put your piece of paper somewhere where you can see it, or maybe you burn it (safely), bury it or tuck it into your journal.

A note, when filling up your cup do this in whatever way you choose. You can write down your wishes and intentions with pen, pastels or markers. Or express this visually using words and images from magazines.

To remind yourself that wishes can come true, even seemingly impossible ones, take a pic of your filled cosmic cup. Then use the pic as your screen saver or wallpaper on your phone or computer.

If you give the nudge a go, comment below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page. If you share your nudge pic via Twitter or Instagram use the tag #creativenudgefridays so we can find you.

Create on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to blog about this nudge or share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

Born to Roar

This week's New Moon in Leo is telling us a story, and it's called: Born to Roar. When a lion roars, we listen. And the current lunar energies are inviting us to do the same. To own our inner-roar aka our unique voice that is solely (and soul-y) ours. Are you listening to the story it wants to tell, and allowing it to be told through you? Now, a roar that bellows up from the depths can sound scary. But a lion doesn't roar only to frighten everything away. Even the king of the jungle likes to hang out with its tribe. A lion also roars as a way to assert itself (with confidence), claim its space (sans self-doubt) and communicate (in the most effective way) with others.

A roar says, 'I am here!'. Yes you are. Own it without shouting it. Love it without doubting it. Here's a Moon Mantra to honour you and the inner-roar you were born to express:

I am me. I am here. I am seen now. I am heard now.

Meditate on this mantra, or use it as a positive affirmation by repeating it quietly within or aloud. To extend on its message, write it down in your journal and say it to yourself - tune in to how it feels within your body and note it down. Express it out in whatever way feels good to you.

Roaring is optional.

I'd love to hear from you. How are you owning your inner-roar? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Sacred Holding

'Sacred Holding', my intuited sketch from my soul arrived this morning with a message for the week ahead, 5 to 11 August 2013;

A seed pod holds sacred the seeds of its creation. It simultaneously protects and temporarily hides from view the new it is about to birth into the world. Be it a new dream or wish or a renewed desire or direction. Even if externally everything appears to remain the same, deep transformation occurs within the seed pod, as the seeds grow and grow until they are ready to emerge.

When we think we are but one seed, it can feel quiet lonely and disconnected. Like you are expending more energy than you have trying all your might to push through the casing, growing impatient with how long it is taking. From that space, curiosity might feel more like frustration.

B-r-e-a-t-h-e out irritation.

B-r-e-a-t-h-e in ease-fullness.

Shift your view.

You are the seed pod. 

The sacred holding. 

The space for that has already been created (you are here).

You hold each and every seed for all that you authentically desire to bring through you and into your life. When you know you are the vessel the focus shifts to keeping it clear and open. To access this space = allow it.

As any blessings disguised as blocks show up this week, notice where more energy is being spent on resistance (listening to fear) rather than allowing (trusting your soul/higher self).

The feather 'seeds' within the pod remind the self to focus on what fills you up with light right now. Then, allow it.

I'd love to hear from you. What fills your being up with light right now? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Your Stardusted Self

Creative Nudge Fridays is here!

The words 'we are made up of stardust' have been sung about, danced around, documented, researched, printed onto t-shirts and painted on canvas. Some see the words as a romantic idea or a whimsical thought. As the stars would have it, they are also based on scientific fact. Almost every element on our planet (including us) was formed at the heart of a star. And almost every element of our physical being is made up of the same elements that stars are made of. Elements themselves (such as carbon, nitrogen and oxygen) were actually created within the deep interior of stars.

We are made up of stardust.

For this nudge we're using these words as our prompt. What do they mean to you? What feelings come up for you? Connected, at one with all, interwoven with all things in the cosmos, ancient, nourished, light, shiny or maybe something entirely different? Allow whatever feels connected to these words to surface. Then, express this out in whatever way calls you. Maybe you create something to symbolise this. Perhaps you take a symbolic pic that represents your meaning. Or you might artwork or journal it out.

To remind yourself that you are made up of starstuff, take a symbolic pic of your nudge in action. Then use the pic as your screen saver or wallpaper on your phone or computer.

If you give the nudge a go, comment below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page. If you share your star pic via Twitter or Instagram use the tag #creativenudgefridays so we can find you.

Create on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to blog about this nudge or share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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The Part of You That Knows

There is a part of you that knows.

That knows you are divine. Even when you are sure you are not.

That knows you are enough. Even when you think you really, like really aren't.

That knows you are pure light. Even when your shadows are running riot.

That knows the way. Even when you think you are definitely lost.

That knows it is all okay. Especially when everything appears otherwise.

Your divine self knows. 

We birth into the world as our divine selves. Even before we learn how to control our physical movements, we are able to communicate. Where does this ability come from? Our divine self knows. The part of us connected to all. We are born unaware that we are separate beings. In our first few weeks and months we are so deeply connected to this sense of oneness, that infant behaviour research has discovered newborns and mothers can coordinate their heart rhythms within less than a second. It's called interaction synchrony.

And so our journey unfolds. Life stuff happens. 

We begin to receive signs from our outer world not to do this, not to say that, be like this, act like that - signs that usually serve to disconnect us from our divine knowing rather than strengthen the connection we arrived with. We see it expressed in our own lives and those around us as heavy feelings of separateness, a deep sense of disconnection, an insatiable hunger to belong and a perpetual fear of not being enough. And all the while our divine self continues to know. It continues to trust itself. It continues to stay plugged in as it sits in non-judgement, ready to assist you whenever you allow it.

To allow your divine self to come through you, you can ask it to do so. Ask it aloud or quietly within, or ask it to come through you in your journal. Another way we can ask is to invite it into our lives through imagery in much the same way vision boards work. Meditating on or looking at images that resonate with us helps to deepen our connection to the part of us that knows.

'Star of David', my latest energy imprint above, can be used in this way.

Inspired by a special astrological formation this week, which saw two grand trines overlapping one another to form a 'Star of David'. Aptly named after Israel's king David who was born when the planets were aligned in the same symmetrical shape. And so some say kings are born under this cosmic influence. The brilliant news is you don't have to be in line to be a king. We are all benefiting from the current goings-on in the Universe. It's a golden invitation to connect deeper with your inner divinity. There are heightened opportunities right now to see and receive the richness of who we really are. And step up to it. If you are seeing obstacles instead of opportunities, your divine self asks you to look again.

Your divine self doubts not your divine destiny. Be who you were born to become. How can you show up for that today?

I'm showing up by sharing a gift with you.

'Star of David' is available as a free digital download for your desktop, tablet or smartphone. Download your option below by clicking the link. Save it to your device. Then set it as your wallpaper.

A note, if you are viewing this via Facebook you may experience downloading issues. If so, open this post or your image option in Safari or your default web browser in order to save the image to your device.

Download your free inspirational wallpaper now:

Desktop version: 1200 x 1600
Desktop version: 1200 x 1920
Tablet version: 2048 x 2048
Smartphone version: 960 x 640

I'd love to hear from you. What opportunities are showing up for you right now? It may very well include opportunities that arrive in unexpected packaging. Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

References:
Mother and infant coordinate heart rhythms through episodes of interaction synchrony.
Infant Behavior and Development Volume 34, Issue 4, December 2011, Pages 569–577
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0163638311000749

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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Round Up, Picture This

Creative Nudge Fridays is here!

Round up, picture this: We're taking a group photo. Of you.

Your team-of-you aka all your inner aspects work together as exactly that, a team. Sure, some aspects can get a bit rowdy possibly because they are so very passionate about your life direction, others want to protest or quit, some sit quiet and there are those that roll up their sleeves ever-ready to do what needs to be done to get you where you want to be.

Now, imagine gathering your team-of-you for a group photo.

As you round up all your inner aspects together, from the unsure self to the assured self and every other self in between - what does your group look like? What symbols, visuals or objects come to mind? What feelings surface? Let your imagination and intuition guide you. Your team-of-you might be flowing in harmony like a waterfall, huddled together like a mis-matched soccer team or grouped as one like a bunch of wild flowers. Allow whatever surfaces for you, sans judgement.

Note, if you find yourself wishing your team-of-you could get a make-over, how would you want them to be?

Then, allow yourself to express that out in whatever way calls you. Maybe you take a pic of something symbolic that represents your team-of-you. Perhaps you create something to symbolise your team-of-you, such as a circle or other formation of sacred, natural or random objects. Or you might artwork it out.

To remind yourself that when your inner aspects are seen, they lift your own self-awareness, take a symbolic pic of that which represents your team-of-you. Then use the pic as your screen saver or wallpaper on your phone or computer.

If you give the nudge a go, comment below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page. If you share your nudge pic via Twitter or Instagram use the tag #creativenudgefridays so we can find you.

Create on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to blog about this nudge or share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

Be Kind to Your Mind

Our thoughts are impressive. They make an impression on how we feel, what we do and how centred we are within our being at any given time. Where our mind goes, it creates a groove that invites our whole self to move in that direction. When we think life is always blessing us - our energy, emotions and actions tend to draw more blessings to us. When we think everything is going against us - our energy, emotions and actions tend to, well, make everything go against us.

When we think enough similar vibrational thoughts (be they calm-grounded-grateful, inspired-kind-mindful or chaotic-overwhelmed-suffering), it's like the mind sends out a memo to your team-of-you, that reads, "Heads up team! This is where we are going now! Let's align!". 

It takes a lot to keep your inner world in the state that it's in. Enter your team-of-you. It consists of all your inner aspects, from the unsure self to the assured self and every other self in between. To check in with the state of your team-of-you, observe your thoughts. Are they self-loving, supporting and encouraging? Are they helping you to move forward on your highest path? Are they impassive or reactive? In harmony or arguing? Peaceful or frustrated? Growing and flowing or stuck in an old pattern that's on replay? Too busy being busy they've pushed aside your dreams and desires? Where your thoughts are at informs you on the state of your team-of-you aka your whole self. Your team-of-you doesn't judge your choice of thoughts (conscious or subconscious), it receives them as your focus point and draws more of the same to you.

If you love the way you think, brilliant. If you desire to transform the goings-on in your mind, it's possible if you think it is.

To think the way we desire we need to break through old thought patterns. To fight, deny or dismiss them can turn up their volume. Instead thank them. Love them. For they have brought you to here. If it resonates with you ask them what message they have for you. So often old ways and modes of being, including old thought patterns want to be seen before they can move on. Acknowledgment is a powerful key for unlocking the energy of transformation.

Let any old thought patterns know; I see you, I hear you and I now let you go.

As the energies of this weeks Full Moon reminds us, when the mind is at ease it steps into its highest role of being a positive ally to our deep inner knowing.

Wherever you are at in your life journey right now, be kind to your mind. To think is to imprint. May you think the way you desire.

I'd love to hear from you. In what ways are you kind to your mind? Add your comments below or be a part of the conversation on my Facebook Page.

Shine on, Jelena x

© Copyright Jelena Mrkich 2013.

Permission is granted to share this post and images within it freely on the condition that the author is credited and this byline is included. Jelena Mrkich is an Artist, Art Therapist and Creative Catayst who is passionate about creativity as a tool for healing, transformation and self-awareness. For more info visit JelenaMrkich.com or for regular creative good things join her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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