The Lemon Test: A Simple Exercise That Reveals the Hidden Power of Your Mind
If you're looking for tangible proof that your thoughts affect your body and ultimately your life, look no further than a simple lemon.
Yes, a lemon.
This everyday fruit offers a surprisingly profound lesson in mind-body connection, self-awareness, and the spiritual potential of your imagination.
The Test: Think of a Lemon
Close your eyes for a moment and bring to mind a fresh wedge of lemon. Visualize its bright yellow color, the shiny, dimpled skin, and the juicy pulp inside.
Now imagine lifting this wedge to your mouth. Gently bite into it. Feel the juice squirting across your tongue, the tartness hitting the sides of your mouth. Notice the bright, zesty flavor and the tingling sensation.
Did your mouth start to water? Did your body react, even though no lemon was actually there?
If so, you've just experienced firsthand what both spiritual traditions and mind-body sciences have taught for ages: your thoughts and feelings can create physical responses. Not metaphorically, but literally.
This isn't just visualization. It is inner cause creating outer effect.
Why This Matters
You didn’t have to strain or force yourself to react. You didn’t consciously command your glands to produce saliva. You simply pictured an experience, and your body responded as if it were real.
This simple exercise shows the power of memory and imagination working together. Memory connects you to something you’ve already experienced, like the taste of lemon. Imagination brings that memory into the present moment. The result is a real, measurable chemical reaction in your body.
Your salivary glands responded because, in that instant, your system believed the lemon was real. There was no lemon, but your body didn’t know the difference.
If your mind can activate digestion with nothing more than a thought, imagine what it can do when you learn to direct it with purpose and consistency.
Expanding the Insight
This test also reveals something profound about daily life: your thoughts and feelings are constantly influencing your body.
Every emotion, belief, and memory subtly shifts your internal chemistry. Stressful thoughts can trigger cortisol and adrenaline. Joyful thoughts can release dopamine and oxytocin. Fearful or limiting beliefs might suppress immune function or disrupt digestion. Uplifting, empowering ideas can stimulate healing and balance.
Your body isn’t only reacting to the external world. It is responding continuously to your inner landscape, the stories you tell yourself and the feelings you entertain moment by moment.
A Spiritual Perspective: Thought as Creative Force
From a spiritual lens, the lemon test reveals even more. Your thoughts shape not only your body, but your reality.
Each reaction in your physical system is part of a chain of influence. Thoughts create emotional and chemical responses. Those responses affect your self-image and the energy you project. That energy, in turn, shapes your outer circumstances including your health, relationships, finances, and the opportunities that come your way.
You are not just reacting to life. You are continually influencing it from within.
This is powerful and humbling. It means you have agency and responsibility. Because if your inner patterns are creating your experience, you also have the ability to change them and to change your life.
Repetition and Practice: Making Change Stick
Change doesn’t happen because you imagined a lemon once.
Like any muscle, your awareness and focus grow through repetition.
Your subconscious mind, the deeper layer that governs habits and reactions, learns through consistent experience. It absorbs what you practice regularly, not just what you think about once in a while.
This is why genuine transformation requires more than reading or understanding ideas. It demands that you apply them, test them, feel them, and embody them over time.
The lemon test is simply a doorway. It is a first taste of what’s possible. If imagination can trigger salivation, it can also activate courage, healing, peace, and spiritual growth.
Final Thoughts: You Hold the Power
In a world that often emphasizes controlling external circumstances, this simple exercise brings your focus back to where your greatest power lies, within yourself.
You are not powerless.
You are not stuck.
You are not at the mercy of fate.
Your thoughts are tools. Your imagination is a creative force. Every moment offers a chance to reorient your inner world and, by doing so, transform your outer world.
The next time you think of a lemon, remember this.
That sour little wedge is trying to show you something profound.
Your body listens to your mind.
Your life responds to your consciousness.
And your soul listens to your intention.
Discovering Nature Spirits: My Journey to Findhorn
As a child, my Mother was influenced by the enchanting art of Arthur Rackham, renowned for his illustrations of nature spirits and whimsical fairy tales. His work sparked my mother’s quest for learning, leading us on an unforgettable journey to Findhorn, a remarkable community in Scotland, in the late 1970s.
Findhorn is a place founded on principles of spiritual growth, sustainable living, and ecological awareness. The community is deeply rooted in the belief of communicating with nature spirits, Devas and Elementals. It was here, amid the lush gardens and serene landscapes, that I had my first encounters with these ethereal beings.
Though I couldn't see the fairies directly, I felt their presence everywhere. The vibrancy of the plants and the harmonious energy of the surroundings were evidence of the Devas and Elementals at work. Their influence was palpable, creating a magical environment that sparked my curiosity and wonder.
Fast forward to more recent years, I decided to delve deeper into this mystical realm. I asked my Spirit Guides if I could finally see the fairies that had eluded me for so long. Their response was simple yet profound: "Of course. Just look." Encouraged by this guidance, I opened my eyes and heart to the world around me.
Now, I find myself able to tune into the fairies, Gnomes, and Elementals that inhabit our shared space. It’s an incredible and vast world, filled with magic and mystery, and I’m grateful to be an observer of this enchanting dance of nature. Each day brings new revelations and connections, reminding me of the beauty and wonder that exist all around us.
My journey to Findhorn laid the groundwork for a lifelong fascination with nature spirits. It taught me that the connections we cultivate with the world—both seen and unseen—are vital for our spiritual growth and ecological awareness. I encourage everyone to open their hearts and minds; who knows what magic awaits just beyond the veil of our everyday lives?
More on Fear
Fear, an innate and powerful emotion, often acts as an invisible shackle, keeping us stuck in patterns that hinder our growth and well-being. In the realm of ancient philosophy, Seneca, the Stoic philosopher, provides profound insights into the nature of fear and its impact on our lives. Let’s dive in and explore how fear keeps us stuck and delve into the wisdom of Seneca to understand the importance of breaking free from its grip, allowing us to cultivate a more peaceful and loving existence.
The Chains of Fear:
Fear's got this knack for trapping us in a cycle of worry, doubt, and hesitation. Whether it's stressing about failing, fearing rejection, or just the unknown, these mental chains stop us from grabbing life's opportunities and living. Seneca hits the nail on the head: "Why suffer in advance? That's like borrowing trouble and paying interest before it's due." So true, right? We often suffer more in our minds than in reality.
Seneca tells us to tackle our fears with a dose of logic. Stoicism 101: Focus on what you can control, and let go of what you can't. Fear, according to the Stoics, often comes from how we see things, not the actual events. Loosen that grip fear has on us? Yes, please!
- Seneca: "We are more often frightened than hurt, and we suffer more from imagination than from reality."
Energetic Body and Fear's Impact:
Beyond the psychological and emotional realms, fear has a profound impact on our energetic body. The continuous presence of fear can disrupt the flow of energy within us, leading to imbalances and disharmony. As we break free from fear, we create space for positive energy to flow, promoting a sense of inner peace and love.
~ Picture this: Fear no longer pulling the strings, and we're on a roll toward inner peace and love. Seneca's Stoic rules – courage, wisdom, and resilience – help us switch from fear-fueled chaos to actions driven by love. This shift isn’t just good for our headspace, and emotional well-being but also balances our energetic body, bringing you into a harmonious and balanced state.
In the pursuit of a more fulfilling and harmonious life, it's time to recognize how fear messes with us and actively work towards breaking free from its constraints. Seneca's Stoic wisdom is like our GPS, guiding us to tackle fear with a bit of logic and a sprinkle of resilience. As we release ourselves from the shackles of fear, we create space for positive energy, allowing us to live with greater peace and love. In this liberated state, we not only transform ourselves but also contribute to a more compassionate and harmonious world.
Spirit Guide Team
Spirit Guides are Souls who assist us in aligning to our Divine self-expression within our physical experience and assist us in creating the experience we want for ourselves. In addition, they provide us with an endless flow of guidance and inspiration.
We all have assigned Guides for our current lifetime, interacting with us daily.
If we think of our Higher Self as the “parent” part of us on the spiritual plane, I think of our Guides as loving aunts and uncles who add their unique perspective from which we can draw counsel. In the physical experience, we gain self-knowledge by comparing ourselves to others. Similarly, receiving assistance from other Souls is tremendously helpful to our Higher Self.
Guides are divided into Inner Circle and Outer Circle.
Your Inner Circle of Guides is your personal Spirit Guide team, exclusively assigned to assist you on your third-dimensional journey in this lifetime. Usually, there are four to six Guides present in your Inner Circle.
These guides have incarnated into the Earth plane previously. In other words, they are Souls like you and me, with Soul-level gifts, characteristics, and extensive physical history. They are, of course, also not incarnated. At the same time, they serve us, meaning they retain the greater perspective of their fifth-dimensional existence, even while interacting with us here in the physical.
Souls will choose to experience themselves as Guides because it allows them to study creation and Divine self-expression on the physical plane without incarnating and incurring karma in the physical dimension.
Your Inner Circle of Guides is around you all the time. At least one of them has been with you from birth. You “hire” the others as you progress through adolescence into early adulthood.
Guides relay the energy of our intentions out into the larger Universe. They will also call upon other Guides for additional guidance as necessary. They are a highly efficient team that is a tremendous spiritual resource and manages our interactions with the spiritual realm for us entirely.
Your Outer Circle of Guides is bustling – they have more than one “client” at a time. Seven guides are in your outer circle, each in charge of a specific area of your life.
Your Outer Circle comprises much older souls with many times our spiritual life experience to draw upon. They are not involved in the small details of our everyday lives. They are not in charge of guiding you through your daily experiences. Your Inner Circle manages your personal needs and interacts with your Outer Circle on your behalf as needed.
Having more information on who our Guides are and how they interact with us can help us receive guidance from them more effectively. It also helps us feel spiritually supported at all times, which can be incredibly comforting. Our Guide teams are like our extended spiritual family, always there to assist.
Embracing Divine Guidance: How Spirit Guides Light Up Our Path
In the realm of our physical existence, a deep connection to the spiritual plane holds boundless possibilities. Enter spirit guides, those friendly souls assigned to lend us a helping hand. They play a vital role in aligning us with our true selves and bringing our dreams to life. These guides shower us with guidance and inspiration, becoming constant companions on our journey. Think of them as those loving aunts and uncles, always ready to offer unique perspectives and sage advice. Just like how we learn by comparing ourselves to others, our higher self thrives when supported by fellow souls.
Unveiling the Essence of Spirit Guides:
Spirit guides are the celestial team working behind the scenes to help us shine. They're handpicked to serve us throughout our journey. Think of them as the ultimate sidekicks, always there to lend a helping hand.
Unlocking Our Divine Self-Expression:
Spirit guides empower us to embrace who we truly are and unleash our inner magic. They guide us towards our passions, talents, and life purpose, paving the way for a fulfilling existence.
A Flow of Wisdom and Inspiration:
Our spirit guides have an endless supply of wisdom and inspiration. They speak to us through signs, synchronicities, dreams, and gut feelings. By tuning in, we gain clarity, make confident choices, and navigate any obstacles that come our way.
Growing through Reflection:
Interacting with our spirit guides invites self-reflection and personal growth. They shed light on our strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. With their loving guidance, we can become more self-aware, accepting, and evolve on our spiritual path.
Relying on Soulful Connections:
Spirit guides are the ultimate matchmakers when it comes to connecting with kindred spirits. They introduce us to like-minded individuals, mentors, and soulmates who lift us higher. Embracing support from fellow souls enriches our spiritual journey and accelerates our soul's growth.
Nurturing the Connection with Spirit Guides:
Embracing Mindfulness:
Carve out time for mindfulness practices that invite a deep connection with your spirit guides. Whether it's meditation, reflection, or simply being present, make space for their guidance to flow in.
Trusting the Cosmic Plan:
Approach your bond with spirit guides with an open heart and trust. Embrace the guidance that unfolds naturally, knowing that it comes from a higher source of wisdom.
Journaling and Intuitive Expression:
Keep a spiritual journal to jot down your encounters, messages, and insights from your spirit guides. Engage in intuitive practices like automatic writing to foster a direct line of communication with them.
Gratitude and Appreciation:
Take a moment to express heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support, love, and guidance showered upon you by your spirit guides. Recognize their presence in your life and the transformative impact they bring to your journey.
The connection we share with our spirit guides illuminates our path in remarkable ways. They help us align with our true selves, manifest our desires, and embrace a life full of purpose. As we nurture our bond with these celestial cheerleaders, we embark on a transformative adventure of self-discovery and spiritual growth. So, trust in the magic of their guidance and let your spirit guides light up your way.
Thoughts from a Birthmother
At 15 years old, I didn't want to accept my pregnancy. I hid, lied, and hoped it would just go away. It didn't. When It was discovered by my Mother, we scheduled an appointment for an abortion.
Lying on an exam table, a tape measure stretched across my stomach, we were informed that I was too far along to have an abortion. On to the next plan of action.
I was to be sent out of town to Utah to live with my sister and her roommates. Stepping on the plane alone, stuffed dog in my arms, I was whisked off to a place where no one would know of my predicament.
Meetings with adoption agencies and doctors were a blur. I had no voice. I was so detached from my body and what was happening. As my due date came closer, my Mother arrived in town, and we rented an apartment in Salt Lake City closer to the hospital. One night in the frequented movie theater, I felt contractions. We hustled off to the hospital, where I was given a spinal block and sent to the delivery floor. In a fog, I remember the doctor removing the child from my teenage body and rushing to the next room.
I was asleep for the next 5 hours and woke in a room two floors down from the labor and delivery unit.
I have no memory after that until I came home to my small town to enter back into high school as if nothing had happened.
Throughout my life, I have been glad to have been given the most significant gift a woman can provide. A child to a family that couldn't have children of their own.
Today, she turns 40 years old. I have an ongoing search through an adoptee search agency which has yet to turn up anything. She does not show up on my DNA sites and has made no choice to contact me. This is up to her. It is not my decision, but by doing the search, I can reach out and see if she wants to meet someday.
She may not. She may be dead. She may have children of her own. I have no idea.
There is a hole left in my heart. The pain of making this choice has grown over time.
The question is…is adoption the right choice?
It may be, but I believe strongly in abortion as well. I have to remember that a soul chooses its path to incarnate into. Some souls come in for the experience of being in the womb, and some come in at the first breath. Some souls are here to experience life with an adoptive family. Adoption may have been the only way for that soul to be with their soul family.
Whichever it is, I know she is loved, and I hope she is happy. I also hope to meet her someday to heal that hole in my heart.
Winter Solstice
The winter solstice has long been seen as a time of great spiritual significance, and it has been revered by many cultures and traditions throughout history. In the Northern Hemisphere, the winter solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year, and it is often seen as a time of death and rebirth, as the sun appears to die and then be reborn as the days start to get longer.
For many esoteric traditions, the winter solstice is seen as a time of great spiritual potential and transformation. It is believed to be a time when the veil between the physical world and the spiritual world is at its thinnest, making it easier to connect with the divine and tap into higher states of consciousness.
Some people choose to mark the winter solstice with special rituals or ceremonies, such as meditation, prayer, or chanting, in order to connect with the energies of the season and tap into their own spiritual potential. Others may choose to celebrate the solstice by participating in winter traditions, such as lighting a yule log or decorating a Christmas tree.
No matter how you choose to celebrate the winter solstice, it's a great time to take a moment to reflect on your own spiritual journey and to connect with the energies of the season. Whether you're participating in traditional rituals or simply taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of the natural world, the winter solstice is a time of great spiritual potential and transformation.
Fear
There is Nothing to Fear.
As the youngest kid in the neighborhood, I had to come home early from the nightly hide-and-seek game at the community field. It wasn't a long walk, but it seemed like miles to me. One of the neighbor boys would run ahead, jump out, and scare me. Spiderwebs crossed the pathway, invisible in the advancing night. Night sounds became monsters that would come and eat me up.
Barefoot And terrified, I usually ended up at home in tears. My father would soothe me and tell me everything was okay. But he always said these words.
There is nothing to fear but fear itself.
Those words have stuck in my head for fifty years, and I never truly understood them. Fear was a constant in my life. Raising a son, I was constantly worried that something would happen to him. Even as an adult walking in the night still conjures up memories of sheer terror.
In the recovery community, there are a couple of acronyms for fear.
Fuck Everything And Run, or
Face Everything And Recover.
I had to get to the core of fear to stay sober, so I wrote lists of things I fear, talked about my fears, and I even shared my fears with others, all in an attempt to understand this emotion.
I have learned that fear is at the base of all emotions - anger, envy, mistrust, and jealousy, to name a few.
When I fear a future outcome, I manipulate and control the situation, so my life and the lives of those around me are more manageable, softer, and look right to the outside. And yet, we all go through rough patches. We all have deaths, sicknesses, and financial woes that we deal with in our lives. Accepting these situations, knowing that this is our life lesson, and tuning into the emotions will help us through them.
If I force my will on others, my anxiety around the situation increases. Anxiety is a spiral back into fear. It becomes a downward circle and will lead me nowhere. How can I believe that I have the right to affect those around me? Everybody is on their guided path in life. If I try to interfere and control it to look safe to me, I am messing with their life path.
Fear is nothing but the desire to make the outcome of situations controllable. Once we realize that the plans for our lives and those around us help us grow, we can then release the fear.
A friend of mine once said, "I can sit in my emotions, but I will not unpack my bags here."
Fear is just that, fear. Acknowledge it, understand the cause of it and then let it go.
"It's ruinous for the soul to be anxious about the future and miserable in advance of misery, engulfed by anxiety that the things it desires might remain its own until the very end. For such a soul will never be at rest— by longing for things to come, it will lose the ability to enjoy present things." — Seneca.
Contact
I was standing in the elevator with Gary Wilt and Mom. He turns to me and casually says, "you have been given a contact as well."
Dressed up with some feeling of mourning, we entered the dimly lit Hall of a large theater on Seattle's Broadway Avenue. The grandeur of the theater was fitting. The chair's velvet was rough on the skin as we waited for Madisen to walk onto the stage. What she said was lost on me. All I know is she was leaving us. It was curious about how, as I knew little of transmutation at the time. But that word, transmutation, was all I could hear. To me, it meant going. Someone I felt I would need for a lifetime, gone. Tears of sadness flowed from followers, but peace came over us, knowing she was going to a better place.
Her gift to her advanced students was a spiritual guide or contact. Mom got one. Madisen explained all of this to them before this spotlighted goodbye from the podium.
The elevator doors slid open. I was so confused and excited at the same time. Why me, I thought.
Later in our hotel room, mom and I communicated with our contacts for the first time. This initial touch was beautiful but strange also. The voice was so clear in my head. He would answer before I could even formulate a sentence.
He is still that way.