Deborah King, Author at Deborah King

True Love is Closer Than You Think!

February 11, 2014

by Deborah King Featured Relationships Women

Around Valentine’s Day, retailers from Macy’s to Rite Aid start selling love-themed gifts in displays with red and pink heart decorations and images of diaper-clad cupids with their love bows and heart arrows. Bouquets of roses and ads for lingerie, champagne, and chocolates are everywhere. It’s enough to make even the happiest of couples feel pressured to act more romantic. And for those of you who are not currently in a relationship, this candy-coated holiday may leave you feeling more sour than sweet.

But true love is closer than you think. You only need to look in the mirror.

Many of those I help ask me how they can find love. As a trained Energy Healer, I often sense a blockage in the fourth chakra—the heart chakra. With a bit of probing I discover that my client is still affected by a past break-up or rejection, an abusive partner, childhood traumas, and many more emotionally charged events that have settled in their energy field.

Take my student, Paula, for example. I sensed in her energy field a toxic residue from a previous relationship. She had been cheated on repeatedly and lied to by her last partner, a man who finally stomped Paula’s heart into dust and left her broken. That emotionally abusive man also left a psychic wound that prevented Paula from trusting or loving anyone, including herself. As long as that wound went untreated, she would not be open to accepting love, despite how desperately she wanted it. As I helped to heal her heartache, I asked Paula two life-changing questions: Do you love yourself? Do you feel worthy of love?

Tears poured out of Paula’s eyes as she shook her head, no, and she is not alone. It’s amazing how many people answer no to both questions, often in a choked whisper as they realize what this means. How can they ever hope to find love without first loving themselves? How can they allow anyone to love them if they don’t feel they deserve to be loved? Like Paula, these poor students’ hearts are literally frozen; no wonder they can’t find love.

If this sounds like you, please don’t despair. You can still learn to love, and love better, by first learning how to love yourself. Here are five easy steps you can take right now to begin to find your one true love: yourself.

1. Know You Are Worthy of Love

This is the first step. You have to believe that you are loveable, that you deserve to be loved. In my healing courses and workshops, I help you understand that no matter what your mom or dad or first crush or high school boyfriend or first partner said or did that made you feel unworthy of love—they are wrong. I cannot comment on their issues, but I can tell you that you deserve love. You are already loved by the Divine, constantly and unconditionally, and knowing this is the gateway to being able to accept love first from yourself, and then from others.

2. Forgive Your Imperfect Self

We are often more willing to forgive others for their mistakes than ourselves. Many of my students are their own harshest critics, making lists of perceived failures and other reasons they are “not good enough” to be loved, and creating a self-perpetuating cycle of rejection and loneliness. You are not perfect, but no one is. Forgive yourself for those past errors, accept yourself for who you are, and live with positive intentions.

3. Practice Self-Love

This might sound strange to those of you who were taught that loving yourself was the same as bragging; that you were selfish if you took care of your own needs first. But love is like emergency oxygen masks in an airplane: just as you must put on your own mask before assisting others, you must love yourself first in order to love others next. So begin each day by practicing self-love. Breathe love in before you get out of bed. Use a journal to keep track of moments you’re proud of, or make a list of your strengths. If you keep a gratitude list (which I highly recommend) be sure to add things about yourself you are thankful for. Love yourself as you are—an imperfect being moving toward the light.

4. Work on Your Spiritual Development

Connecting to the infinite love of Source will help you connect to earthly love as well. Begin with a daily practice of meditation and not only will you begin to experience a sense of calm and peace, you will also attune your body, mind, and soul to an energy that can begin to clear your emotional blocks. Developing your spiritual practice, whatever that means for you, can open your chakras so that you can accept the love that is sure to come your way.

5. Get Rid of Toxic Relationships

Toxic relationships are like black mold to your energy field. Once that negativity gets a foothold, it will spread and spread until it has choked off your access to the light. And like with black mold, it’s not enough to clear away each flare-up, you need to cut it off at the root. If possible, remove yourself from the abusive partner or friend who disguises insults as compliments. If elimination is not possible, protect yourself spiritually by creating a psychic shield.

The truth of the season is that you are your one and only true love—so indulge in a little soul pampering and be sweet to yourself. Let Valentine’s Day be a catalyst for your own self-love rituals. You may even want to take yourself on a moonlit beach walk or buy yourself a special outfit. And if you want it, external love won’t be far behind.

Get Out of Fear and Into the Light

February 5, 2014

by Deborah King Energy Healing

Fear is a necessary component to life on the physical plane. Some common fears are heights, snakes, and water. These real fears serve an important purpose: to keep you safe. Your ancestors relied on the warning system of fright to protect them from falling off a cliff, getting bitten by a poisonous reptile, or drowning in a river. Your brain continues to use thousands of years of programmed fear to shield your body from harm.

But what happens when fear becomes psychological? Fear of inadequacy, of loneliness, of failure—these fears burrow into your psyche and can affect you a on a daily basis, sometimes even preventing you from living a meaningful life full of positive relationships and experiences. These psychological fears are unnecessary. The only purpose they serve is to damage your chances of living in light and love. It’s time to get those fears under control!

Psychological fear wears many masks you need to watch for, including anxiety, worry, depression, and embarrassment. Even fate can camouflage fear, as in, “I’ve had three bad dates, so it must be a sign I’m not meant to find love,” when really you’re afraid of vulnerability. As a spiritual teacher and energy healer, I often see the trickster of fear masquerade as logic. For example, my student Molly wanted to join a choir. The choir required an audition that Molly had prepared for and felt good about. But when the day arrived, she came up with a dozen logical reasons why it was impractical for her to join the group: the commute was too far, the choir would cost money, she was particularly busy at work, who would feed her kids those nights, etc., etc. But the real, honest reason was that she was scared of failing. The audition was emotionally risky, so fear donned the mask of common sense and convinced Molly it was a bad idea.

Fears and their guises take years to become buried in your mind and heart so you can’t expect them to disappear overnight. But here are five ways you can begin to slowly move out from under those dark clouds of fear and walk into the light.

1. Acknowledge Your Fears

As a former addict, I know that the first step to any recovery is awareness. Ignoring your fears will only make them worse and give them more power over your life. Admit to yourself what you are truly afraid of, whether it is being wrong, or being alone, or losing a loved one. Open up and identify the truth of your fear so you can start the healing process.

2. Uncover the Cause

Psychological fears always have a root source. In working with Molly, I discovered the foundation of her fear of auditioning was a childhood in which she was expected to always be the best and was met with disappointment and even disapproval from her parents when she received less than an A+ or didn’t make the team. This had created in Molly an intense fear of failure, which also manifested as anxiety over trying new things or taking risks. Ask yourself, “What is the underlying cause of my fear? What is its origin?”

3. Express Yourself

Expressing your fears helps to release the grip they have on your psyche and helps you regain the power and energy they take from you. In my workshops and healing courses, I recommend journaling as a way to release negativity and liberate those pent-up emotions. Writing allows the scared pieces of you to be exposed to the light so they can start to mend. Talking through your fears can be incredibly beneficial as well. Whether it is a trusted friend or a professional listener like a religious counselor or trained therapist, speaking your fears aloud frees them from your mind and leaves room for peace.

4. Manage Stress

When you’re stressed, you become vulnerable to attack. Fear walks right through those open doors of exhaustion and strain and settles in your mind and body. Your chakras are especially susceptible to fear’s draining energy and can become blocked. Meditation is one of the best ways to manage your stress levels so you can keep those doors closed to fear and your chakras clear and unencumbered. Meditate every day, and I promise that your fears—along with some of those pesky fear-in-disguise feelings like anxiety and depression—will begin to decrease. Exercise, including walks and yoga, can also go a long way in lowering your stress levels and keeping you protected from the constant fight-or-flight response produced by psychological fears.

5. Practice Love

Love is the greatest power in the universe, and the best weapon against fear. Work on bringing more love into your life by spending more time with friends and family, volunteering for those less fortunate than yourself, and basking in the unconditional adoration of your pets. Connection to other living beings can alleviate feelings of isolation and improve the frequency and quality of love in your life. Don’t forget to practice self-love, too! Whatever form your fear takes, love is the one thing that will truly conquer it.

Calling All Angels

January 27, 2014

by Deborah King Energy Healing Gifts

Angels surround you every day whether you realize it or not. Think of all the times a voice in your head has suggested you proceed with caution before an accident reveals itself. For example, you slow down while driving and suddenly a car in the next lane swerves into your lane or a tire blows out in the car right in front of you. Without your guardian angels watching over you and encouraging you to take your foot off the gas pedal, you may have been hit or unable to react quickly enough to avoid the chunks of rubber flying off a vehicle at seventy miles an hour. These voices are more than just intuition—they are your angels keeping you safe from harm.

Angels exist outside our human perceptions of time and space and live beyond all cultural limitations. Angels are made of light and love, and it is their job to spread that light and love to us, to help us through the trials and tribulations of being a physical being with all our bodily functions, emotional turmoil, and spiritual distress. They are here for you when you need them. Whether you are looking for healing for a physical ailment, an emotional upheaval, or a spiritual black hole, angels carry the tools to ease you out of your hardship.

Angels will never interfere with your life without your permission, unless your life is at risk, so it is important to let them know when you would like them to whisper in your ear or send much-needed love and support. Calling upon your angelic guides is easier than you might think. You can create your own prayers, invocations, or simple requests. It can be as straightforward as saying, “Please help me,” or, “Please help my loved one.” You don’t even need to say it aloud—your angels will hear your thoughts if you want them to. As an energy healer, I often observe this when a loved one is ill. The healthy individual calls out for help to heal their sick family member or partner, and if the intention is strong, help will come. Prayers never go unheard by the heavens, and healing can begin to take place.

In the book, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, the wise old wizard Dumbledore tells Harry, “Help will always be given at Hogwart’s to those who ask for it.” Later, when Harry is fighting the Basilisk, a giant poisonous snake, he becomes injured and is in real danger of losing his life. But instead of giving up, Harry asks for help, and the sword of Gryffindor presents itself to him, and Dumbledore’s Phoenix, a miraculous immortal bird, swoops in and blinds the evil serpent. Harry uses the sword to defeat the wounded beast and saves his friends, himself, and the school. At the moment all hope seemed lost, Harry opened himself up to the magic outside himself and was rewarded with the assistance he needed to defeat the monster. All he had to do was ask. The magical realm is no less available to you.

As a spiritual teacher, I encourage meditation as an even deeper way to open yourself up to the angelic kingdom and receive unconditional light from above. After your mediation, focus on releasing your pain and giving it to the angels. Trust me, they can handle it. You never have to worry about burdening your angels or taking them away from other souls. Angels have an unlimited supply of love, and since they are not bound by the physical world, they can be everywhere they need to be at any time. Give your angels your stress and fear and pain—it is what they are there for—and exchange that negativity for pure, celestial joy. As you practice this openness, reaching out to your angels will become almost effortless, and you will be able to unlock that joy more and more frequently.

Students who take my healing courses and workshops learn to feel the presence of their angels. The presence of an angel can feel like a warmth around the fourth or heart chakra, a feeling of loving tenderness that spreads out from the chest to rest of the body. Some students say they know their angels are near when they feel a sense of calm wash over them, bringing peace. With the continued practice of meditation and chakra clearing, you may even be able to see signs of your angels when they are close—a flash of white or golden light or a quick glimpse of shimmering wings.

Rest assured that even if you do not see your angels, they are waiting to guide, heal, and love you, without conditions. And they are always within calling distance. The lines are never closed and you are never out of range. You don’t even have to pick up the phone. All you need to do is ask.

Activating Your Health

January 22, 2014

by Deborah King Health

Baby, it’s cold outside! Well, not here in California, but I hear the rest of the country is shivering. A lot of my students in the Northeast are dealing with blizzard conditions, and I’ll bet many of them are worried about colds and flu, if they’re not already walking around holding a box of tissues.

Most of you know that you have the ability to heal your physical body and to maintain a high quality of health. Healing ability is natural; when you give your body the right tools to work with, it can keep you humming along no matter how nasty the weather is!

So, how are you feeling? A little fatigued, a little headachy? Are you doing what’s needed to boost your immune system and fend off the attack of the germs?

It’s always good to remember the basics of health and healing. I’ve written a blog for Psychology Today that goes into five of the top ways you activate your natural healing ability. Go to https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/mining-the-headlines/201401/5-easy-ways-activate-your-natural-healing-ability and stay well, with plenty of energy to accomplish all your dreams!

The Ultimate Mystery

January 21, 2014

by Deborah King Be Your Own Shaman Energy Healing Gifts

Ancient Celtic gravesite

During the weeks I spent helping my 89-year-old mother recover from a bout of pneumonia, I found myself thinking about the way many Americans feel about death. Unlike medical doctors, who see the death of their patients as a personal defeat, I am an energy healer. I know that healing is not the same as curing. We can heal old traumas, rewire our misperceptions and ill-founded beliefs, untie our psychological knots, steep ourselves in gratitude and forgiveness, and yet not recover from diseases that have a firm grip on our physical bodies.

Death is inevitable, so why are most people afraid of it?

Because they can’t imagine what’s on the other side. All fear basically comes down to a fear of the unknown. And death is the ultimate mystery: uncharted territory, the unrevealed secret, the uncertain future. Personally, as someone who can hear the dead, I am certain that death is not the end. I also know that we are here—in bodies on Earth—to get over our issues, whatever they may be. It was always difficult between my mother and me, so I am working on healing our relationship while we are both still here.

Are You a Hero?

January 14, 2014

by Deborah King Energy Healing Energy Medicine

Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.

~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

On Monday, January 20^th, we honor the memory of Martin Luther King, Jr.—the inspiring leader and real hero in the fight for civil rights.

In 1955, Martin Luther King Jr. graduated from the seminary with a doctorate in theology prepared to lead a church, but the racial segregation and prejudice that existed in the South at that time compelled him to take action on a much larger scale. He studied and adapted Gandhi’s technique of nonviolent resistance to overcome the problems faced by his people. He spent his life giving speeches, leading protest marches and boycotts, sacrificing his own safety, comfort, and freedom in the pursuit of racial equality.

King delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963 to a quarter of a million people on the Mall in Washington, DC, and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize the following year. Five years later, he was gunned down in Memphis, Tennessee, where he was about to lead a protest march.

Who can be a hero? Anyone who sees an injustice and propels themself into action on behalf of others in need, or in defense of a cause. Like Martin Luther King, Jr., heroes often risk their comfort, financial security, and/or personal safety for the good of others. But you don’t have to risk life and limb to be an everyday hero. For example:

Danielle Gletow posts the wishes of foster kids online so they can be granted. She said, “I’m here to be the mom to all these kids who might not feel like they have one.” Her group has helped make more than 6,500 wishes comes true in 42 states.

Estella Pyfrom created “Estella’s Brilliant Bus, using her life savings to fund a mobile computer lab that helps tutor thousands of low-income students in Palm Beach County, FL. As she says, “It’s not just a bus, it’s a movement. And we’re going to keep making a difference.”

Duncan, Dylan, and Isabella Frost, three siblings who live in Denver, collect turkeys, canned goods, and money each fall by holding a Frost Family Turkey Bowl before Thanksgiving. This year, the flag football game scored 60 turkeys and $700 for the Denver Rescue Mission, which serves 100 different agencies during the holidays.

How about all those teachers who use their own funds to buy school supplies for their students? They are also heroes, going above and beyond to inspire the up-and-coming generations.

Each and every day, there are dozens of opportunities to step in and get involved. The next hero could be you! You know you would help if you witnessed:

a child being bullied at school, or an adult discriminated against at work
a victim of domestic abuse
someone who has had too much to drink and is about to drive
an animal that is being neglected or abused
an inappropriate or offensive comment is spoken
someone who is hungry, homeless, or in need of medical attention.

As an energy healer and spiritual teacher, I talk about how you can spread our light by “becoming the change we want to see in the world.” I urge you to take your inspiration from Martin Luther King, Jr., as well as from those who have made a difference in their own communities. You can be a hero, too!

A New Year and a New You!

January 8, 2014

by Deborah King Energy Healing Energy Medicine

If you asked me for my New Year Resolution, it would be to find out who I am. ~Cyril Cusack

It’s that time again! Time to box up the decorations, put away your party clothes and get serious. New Years Day signaled an end to the excess of the holidays and a fresh start to a brand new year. Before you break out your journal and start setting goals and writing lists, think for a moment – what’s the secret to making your New Year’s resolutions stick?

Take your time, and set goals based on who you are, not the person your mother or father or significant other think you should be. Don’t take other people’s standards as a mandate that you need to change. Does a picture in a magazine or a critical comment from a friend make you feel like you have to whip yourself, home, or career, into shape? Before you start jotting down “to-dos”, spend some time contemplating what you really want, and get in touch with your own feelings. You make the rules, and there’s no rule that says New Year’s resolutions have to be nailed down in the first week of January. The best way to make sure your resolutions will stick around is to set goals that are appealing and meaningful for you.

Think out of the box when it comes to health and fitness. Getting in shape, eating healthy and losing weight are popular resolutions that tend to show up on the same lists year after year. If your healthy intentions routinely go awry, shake things up a little this year. Instead of counting calories, set a goal to eat more veggies and swap out coffee and soft drinks for herbal tea and cool water. If the gym doesn’t inspire you, go for walks or snow-shoeing. Take baby steps, and have fun along the way!

Schedule time for fun. New Years resolutions don’t have to be hard work. Here’s an easy one – resolve to spend more time doing things that bring you happiness and fulfillment. Exactly what that means is different for everyone. For me it’s spending time in nature, meditating, going to movies with my husband, and swimming. For you it might be discussing a good book with a friend, taking your dog to the park, or taking a long walk on the beach. Think about what activities bring you joy and make it a priority to schedule them into your day.

Get help if you need it. While many people use the New Year as an incentive to finally stop drinking, smoking or engaging in other addictive behavior, many are not equipped to make such a drastic lifestyle change on their own. If you plan to kick a destructive habit, know that there is a world of help and support available. If you’re ready to make a change, enlist the help of a friend, counselor, and/or support group, and take time to heal the unprocessed emotions that might be contributing to your addiction.

Can’t think of a resolution? Try my old standbys. As a spiritual teacher, I encourage journaling and meditating – they can absolutely change your life. Choking down and suppressing your emotions is all too common in our society, but to be truly healthy and happy you have to acknowledge your feelings and live in truth. Journal writing can help you to do that. If that sounds appealing to you, it’s simple to start. Resolve to write in your journal every day, use a notebook or computer – whatever you like, but most important, be honest! It’s time to honor your feelings and your journal is the place to do it. Don’t hold anything back! Meditation is another way to tap into your feelings – a daily practice of 20 minutes can be an amazing gift you give yourself. Meditation will help you manage stress, heal your body and your psyche, and find your true path in life. In every one of my healing courses, I teach my students about the power of journaling and meditation – I urge you to try them!

As you look forward to starting the New Year and progressing along on your journey of spiritual growth, I urge you to start from a place of unconditional love, and be sure to include yourself. Shine your light on you and the people around you, and give yourself the gift of self-love and acceptance!

Happy Holidays!

December 24, 2013

by Deborah King Uncategorized

I send you my blessings for what the New Year will bring:

May you be surrounded by friends and loved ones, and bask in the beauty of the natural world.

May you allow the time to celebrate what is truly important in life, and make it a habit to give thanks for all of the good things that surround you.

May you continue on your journey and ascend to levels of higher consciousness.

And above all, may you honor yourself for all that you already are.

Wishing you peace and joy for the New Year.

Warmly,

Deborah

Anticipating the Light

December 18, 2013

by Deborah King Astrological Events Energy Healing Energy Medicine

“In the depth of winter, I finally learned
that within me there lay an invincible summer.”
~ Albert Camus

As the seasons continue their relentless cycle, once again we find ourselves nearly at year-end, facing the darkest day of the year. December 21, 2013 marks the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, when we’ll experience the shortest day and longest night and see the sun peak at its lowest point in the sky. The term solstice means “sun stands still,” and for a fleeting moment the sun actually seems to pause in the sky – a signal to the world that the long night is over and we can look forward to the weeks to come when the days lengthen and the sun once again begins to work it’s magic here on earth!

For most of us today, the challenges of winter don’t go much beyond travel delays, ice on our windshields and the need to bundle up in warm coats, scarves and gloves. To others, the grey, gloomy days of winter can trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) a mood change that’s associated with the change of the seasons. To ancient cultures, the winter solstice had much greater significance as each year citizens calculated their odds of living through the winter, dreading the approach of cold and darkness as they longed for spring to return.

The longest night of the year marks the return of the light in many cultures and has long been held as a sacred time of year. We can see evidence of these ancient tributes in places that were built to acknowledge this astronomical event, and in many of today’s winter holidays and rituals.

At Newgrange, a Stone Age passage tomb in Ireland, the sun shines down its long passageway into the central chamber at the first crack of light on the winter solstice. Each year, people gather at Newgrange on winter solstice to wait for the dawning of the light, and just as it did over 5,000 years ago, for seventeen minutes as the sun rises the whole chamber is illuminated. It’s an extraordinary experience to wait in the darkness for the longest night of the year to come to an end, as the old sun dies and the new sun is born. In 2007, for the first time, the illumination at the passage tomb was broadcast live so that people around the world could experience this magical moment in their own living rooms.

Gods have a way of appearing just as things are at their darkest! The infant Jesus, whose birth is celebrated right around the time of winter solstice, brought light back into the world. In the days of the Roman Empire, many of their gods were born near the time of the solstice: Apollo, Attis, Baal, Dionysus, Helios, Hercules, Horus, Mithra, Osiris, Perseus, and Theseus. In the third century, their festivals were combined into one “Birthday of the Unconquered Sun” on December 25th. In Japan, the sun goddess Amateratsu emerges from her cave at this time of year.

Simple rituals, ancient and modern, help us to shed our own light on the darkness. All over the world people gather together with loved ones, light candles, decorate their homes, share meals and/or exchange gifts. All these winter holidays—Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanzaa, Saint Lucia Day, Dong Zhi (which literally means “the extreme of winter”), Diwali, Koleduvane (a festival in Belgium for the birth of the sun), Gody (in Poland), Shabe-Yalda (rebirth of the sun as celebrated in Iran) – are celebrating the return of the light during the darkest time of the year.

As a spiritual teacher and energy healer, I encourage you to remember that without darkness, there can be no light. To celebrate the seasonal cycle, why not develop your own personal rituals to mark the passing of darkness and the ascension into the light! Take a hike to a high outdoor peak, attend a meditation retreat or energy healing workshop, create a special journal entry to process any darkness that you have accumulated this season, or find a way to spread some light to others who are experiencing hardships or depression. Enjoy this mystical and hopeful time of year!

Have The “Perfect Holiday” on Your Terms!

December 4, 2013

by Deborah King Featured Life Coaching

“Christmas, my child, is love in action.
Every time we love, every time we give, it’s Christmas.” ~ Dale Evans

Whatever holidays you celebrate between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve, you might find yourself anticipating the upcoming festivities with more dread than joy. Who can blame you? For many, the holidays are way too full of unrealistic expectations and that nagging feeling that you owe yourself and your family the “perfect holiday” no matter what financial, emotional or family challenge you’re facing.

The way I see it, common holiday gripes fall into three categories:

I can’t afford it! If it’s hard to make ends meet under normal circumstances, the additional cost of buying gifts, mailing out cards, and putting up holiday decorations – plus splurging on festive clothing, and holiday meals – can make your bank account scream for mercy.

I don’t have time! Wondering how to heap all the extra holiday chores on top of your normal workload? Wish you could skip some (or all) of the decorating, shopping and entertaining? Doing the holidays up right is a big job, especially when you’re also juggling family, work, and household obligations (and who isn’t?).

My extended family makes me crazy! Unresolved family issues from the far and recent past are often exacerbated by the holidays. As an energy healer, I can assure you that memories of holidays and special occasions, good or bad, lodge in your psyche – and come flooding back every year. Unresolved family issues, resentment, trauma and abuse come to the surface when everyone gathers, and what was supposed to be a season of brotherly love can become a pressure cooker of stress and anxiety!

You can take control of the holidays, and have a light filled season on your own terms. Here are some tips that you owe it to yourself to try:

Scale it down. Got time or financial constraints? Give yourself a pass on any events or obligations that you can’t (or don’t want to) handle. Henry David Thoreau may have been on to something when he said, “Distrust any enterprise that requires new clothes.” If you’re dreading attending a fancy event, quote Thoreau to yourself and blow it off in favor of something that gives you real joy – like cuddling up on the couch drinking hot chocolate and watching The Good Wife! Scaling down goes for gifts, cards, travel, or anything else that doesn’t contribute to your true enjoyment of the season.

Give yourself and your family the gift of forgiveness. Hit the “reset button” with your family. Spend time before the holidays journaling about each of your family members, and consciously forgiving them for past wrongs. You don’t have to forget, I fact, pushing down negative feelings is the worst thing you can do! Simply acknowledge your feelings about the person or event, and choose to forgive them. You will feel a sense of relief and lightness that will carry you through the season. While you’re at it, forgive yourself in advance for tackling the holiday on your own terms – skip the guilt if you choose not to bake, send out cards, or buy gifts.

Experience the joy of helping others! Being of service is the key to your own enlightenment and balance. Spreading your light to others less fortunate is especially important during the holidays, and it can be accomplished in small ways that bring joy to the giver as well as the recipient! Bring cookies to someone ill or alone, sing in a choir, donate clothes or small gifts to the needy, or just make a special effort to have a kind word for the harried service people who are working extra hard this season. When you take the pressure and stress off yourself by approaching the holidays on your own terms, it gives you the spiritual bandwidth to help others!

Take care of yourself. Don’t let holiday obligations cause you to put your own spiritual and health practices aside. Make sure you schedule time for yourself to meditate, exercise and journal. This will keep your mind clear and your spirit light – allowing you to enjoy the season and spread that joy to others around you. Get plenty of rest, and don’t go overboard on rich food or drink.

The goal of tackling the holidays on your own terms is to finish the season with an abundance of joy and more light. Make time for the things that you love about the holidays, and skip the rest! You’ll wake up in January ready to tackle the New Year – without finding yourself in the hole when it comes to your finances, your health, or your spirit!

Meet a Few of My Favorite Archangels

November 15, 2013

by Deborah King Angels Energy Healing Gifts

“I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free.”
~Michelangelo

Can you imagine having a powerful team of benevolent, all knowing beings whose mission is to watch over and protect you, and who are poised to provide divine guidance and answers in all areas of your life? You can – it’s the archangels! I call upon them every day— I encourage you to get to know them too! Archangels are with you all the time: they’re just waiting for you to invoke them with a prayer or plea for help.

Archangels are higher-level angels who supervise all guardian angels and angels upon the earth. You can call upon an archangel whenever you need them – they have no time or space limitations, so they’re never too busy to help. Like all spiritual guides, they don’t interfere unless they’re asked, except in rare cases when your life is in danger. It’s up to you to figure out which Archangel to call upon and to make it a habit to connect with them regularly. I urge you to pick a personal Archangel or two, you’ll feel happy, safe and guided, as you go through the day in their company!

Which Archangel should you connect with? Let me introduce you to a few of my favorites:

Are you a healer, or do you need healing of the mind, body or spirit? You’ll want to connect with Archangel Raphael and keep him close. I know I couldn’t get through a day without him!

Archangel Raphael is the angel of healing – his name means “God Heals, or God has Healed.” Raphael provides support and guidance to all healers, so call upon him and access his power to help others. He heals us from sickness and injury, as well as providing divine energy to our mental, emotional, and spiritual bodies. He also is gifted in the areas of physical and spiritual eyesight, clairvoyance, and finding lost pets. If you or someone you love is sick, lost or struggling, connect with him by invoking his emerald green energy, while picturing the ailment or area where you need his healing support.

If you are a student, or if you feel like you’re at a crossroads and don’t know which direction to go, you can call on Archangel Uriel:

Uriel means “God is Light or God’s Light” and he’s the angel you need if you’re looking for clarity, information or help making a decision – large or small. Students and seekers commonly invoke this Archangel for everything from selecting the right answer on a multiple-choice test, to charting their life’s course! Uriel specializes in illuminating situations, providing prophetic information and offering transmutation. You can tap into his guidance by taking a deep breath, picturing yourself completely enveloped in the color red, and thinking of your dilemma – ask him to guide you, and he will apply his divine wisdom to your question or dilemma!

If you’re a writer, teacher or speaker, you’ll find Archangel Gabriel an invaluable source of support in the area of communication:

Archangel Gabriel, whose name means “God is my strength” is the Archangel of communication and is also known as “The Messenger.” I call upon him whenever I am blocked in my writing or speaking, need a flash of inspiration during my radio show, or need help getting through to anyone. I picture his clear, white light and call upon his energy of communication and strength.

We all need protection from negative energy, along with strength to pursue our life’s calling. Archangel Michael is always there to protect us and provide the energy of unconditional love just when we need it!

Archangel Michael: means “he who is like God.” Michael is the Archangel of protection, guidance and strength. In my healing and teaching work, I call upon Archangel Michael to surround me and protect me from any negative energy or darkness that is around me. To counteract the darkness, I ask him to channel divine love and healing to everyone around me. I also connect with him when I need a little extra strength, faith and determination to continue my work as an energy healer and spiritual teacher. To connect with Archangel Michael, I meditate upon my path as a healer and teacher, and visualize his bright blue energy as I ask him for strength and protection.

There are other archangels that I connect with as well – Ariel, whose name means “Lioness of God,” is a feminine presence with a beautiful pale pink energy. I speak to her when I need to tap into my own Divine Feminine energy. Archangel Metatron is the “Angel of Life” and tracks our good deeds on Earth and in Heaven. He supports me in my own spiritual growth and enlightenment, and gives me the strength to spread my light to others!

I urge you to call upon the Archangels. They have been an invaluable blessing and source of strength and guidance in my life. Take the time to connect with them, and let them guide you on your journey to higher consciousness!

David and Goliath

November 8, 2013

by Deborah King Featured Gifts

I usually don’t venture into the land of politics, but I am watching to see if Initiative 522 in the state of Washington will pass or not as they continue to count votes there. I, for one, would like to see labels on food that tell us if we’re about to consume genetically-modified ingredients. Of course, the money is on the side of those who don’t want truth in labeling, which could hurt the bottom line.

I’m also interested in this particular battle because I’m fascinated by one of the major contributors to the YES on 522 campaign—David Bronner, the grandson of the founder of Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap. This is one David who is not afraid of taking on the Goliaths of agribusiness.

Under his command, half the profits of the company go to activism and donations to charity. He not only walks his talk, he proudly proclaims his truth on the labels of that tingly pure castile peppermint soap. And he still endorses his grandfather’s belief in an All-One philosophy.

To read more about this remarkable man, who is living his passionate life purpose and standing tall in his truth, read my blog on the Huffington Post at … https://www.huffingtonpost.com/deborah-king/david-bronner-versus-the-gmo-goliath_b_4227934.html

Who Rescued Who?

November 4, 2013

by Deborah King Pets Relationships

Until one has loved an animal a part of one’s soul remains unawakened. ~Anatole France

There are so many benefits to having a pet that it’s hard to count them all! Pets provide us with unconditional love, motivate us to play and exercise, and keep depression and loneliness at bay. People with pets live longer, spend less time at the doctor’s office, and are happier overall, and it’s certainly not a one way street – our pets benefit from the arrangement, too! The other day, I saw a bumper sticker on a car that made this point perfectly. Inside a big paw print were the words “who rescued who?”

That bumper sticker made me think of Ida, a neighbor I had years ago. When I met her, she was in her mid-nineties. Her independent and cheerful spirit immediately struck me – she was entirely self-sufficient, and lived alone with only her ancient Pomeranian, Princess, for company. Princess gave Ida an excuse to get out and interact with the world several times a day. Everyone in the neighborhood was used to seeing the little grey-haired woman and her tiny, teetering dog making their way along the street. These walks kept them both active, healthy, and in touch with their neighbors, who kept an eye out every day to make sure that Ida and Princess made their scheduled rounds. The two friends carried on for years, living in their little house, until, as if they had agreed that it was time, Princess passed away, and a few days later, Ida, at 98, followed. The two were so devoted to each other, I could never figure out who was taking care of whom!

As a spiritual teacher, I know that one of the most powerful forces in the universe is unconditional love. If you provide your pets with food, shelter, affection, and medical care, they will pay you back by supplying you with unconditional love and a sense of purpose, both of which are crucial for anyone, especially those who are out of work, living alone, or just feeling down in the dumps. Pets combat feelings of loneliness by providing companionship, which can boost your overall mood and bring you feelings of joy and happiness. At my healing courses, I can always tell which attendees have a pet and which do not. Your apartment doesn’t allow an animal? Then try an aquarium; fish are pets too!

Or course, the elderly aren’t the only ones who benefit from having pets. In fact, pet ownership is great practice for any serious, committed relationship. Here are some important relationship skills that you probably already use on your pets. Try some of these and I guarantee that you, your pet, and your “human” relationships will benefit!

Unconditional love starts with a warm greeting! Even on bad days, we greet our pets with a warm hello, a pat on the head, or a hug. Of course it helps that they are always so happy to see us! This is a terrific example of the fact that “you get what you give.” Your pet gives you something very positive that reinforces the love and connection that they get back from you. Do you greet your significant other with the same enthusiasm after a long day at work?

Tune in and develop your listening skills. You can practice this basic energy healing technique to sense what your pet has to say. They will always tell you what their problem is if you just tune in and listen. When you’re sitting quietly with your pet, with no TV or computer on, simply intend to open to whatever your pet wants to tell you. Touch your pet gently, and you may “hear” or “know” what your dog or cat has to say. Now put these same intuitive skills to work when dealing with the people in your life!

Practice the art of forgiveness. When our pets make mistakes, we don’t take it personally and are quick to forgive. It’s easy to give pets the benefit of the doubt when they look at us with their big, soulful eyes! Remember that feeling when your partner does something wrong, and pause for a moment before you react with anger and blame!

Having a pet is a beautiful way to share the light of unconditional love with your pet and everyone else in your life. If you are ready to open your heart, live a happier and healthier life, and hone your relationship skills so you can be a better friend, parent, or spouse . . . get a pet!

Connect with Your Ancestral Guides!

October 29, 2013

by Deborah King Life Coaching

The dead may not be with us in body but they’re with us in spirit, and during this time of year, at Halloween, they feel especially close! On November 1^st, in the US, Mexico and other areas in the western hemisphere, people honor their deceased loved ones with Day of the Dead celebrations. Families and friends gather to pray for and remember those who have died. In South America, altars are built at gravesites, heaped with skulls made of sugar, marigolds, and the favorite foods of the departed. Families celebrate the memories of those who have died — treating them as something to be honored and celebrated.

The belief behind the Day of the Dead rituals is that deceased loved ones return to Earth on that day to be with their families. In my work as a spiritual teacher and energy healer, I detect the presence of ancestors, not just on November 1^st, but all year round!

Recently, during one of my energy healing courses, I had the opportunity to provide comfort to an attendee who was reeling from the recent loss of both her mother and her 19-year-old son. Her son was killed in a car accident, and less than a year later, her mother fell victim to cancer. The grandmother and grandson had been extremely close, and my student consoled herself with the belief that the spirit of her mother was looking over her son – but she was having difficulty dealing with her own feelings of loneliness and loss. “Sometimes I feel like they are right here with me – I could almost reach out and touch them!” she sobbed. As I scanned her energy field, I became aware of the presence of an older woman and a teenage boy. I was delighted to confirm to my student that her loved ones were not only together and supporting each other, but they were watching over her. I was also able to provide her with some simple energy healing techniques she could use to feel their presence, every day!

I urge you to take the opportunity to connect with those beings on the other side that are there to help and support you, if you will simply open the door. They might be loved ones who have recently passed, ancestors who you know through stories or photographs. These guides are available for many different purposes— for healing you or helping you to heal others, for spiritual development, to protect you, to aid in your creative endeavors, or even to help you find a soul mate!

How do you connect with those who have previously passed on? To begin sensing and communicating with the spirits of the dead, you need to expand your consciousness beyond the five basic senses. It’s easy to develop these abilities; they are deeply buried in your cellular memory and just need to be reawakened.

The following steps will help you connect to any ancestral guide who is there for you. Among the most common of these guides are deceased grandparents and great-grandparents, but use your intuition in choosing your ancestor—it could be anyone in your family tree.

When you go to bed at night, after you turn out the light and before you fall asleep, state (out loud or silently) your intention to connect to the ancestor most appealing to you. Do the same thing when you first awaken, before you open your eyes.

Choose the person, whether or not you knew him or her personally, who resonates with you the most. Chances are, whoever first comes to your mind is the right one. Picture the person in your mind.

Tell this individual that you want him or her to be there for you. Ask a specific question or for help with a particular problem.

Come to a healing course, in person or via livestream: at every workshop, I help attendees connect to their ancestors; this activity will help deepen your connection.

Here is the main rule to remember with guides: they want to help, but they won’t unless they are specifically asked. If you just take a few moments every day, in the morning and at night, to tune in to your guides, you can ask them exactly what you want assistance with, and they will be more than happy to help!

Your ancestral guides can be a great source of love and light in your life. To learn more, check out my new book, Entangled in Darkness: Seeking the Light.

Get Energized with Superfoods!

October 18, 2013

by Deborah King Health

Looking for a way to feel good inside and out, maintain a healthy weight, ward off disease and slow down the aging process? To maximize the effects of your regular healthy diet, make it a habit to incorporate a few superfoods into your daily menu. Packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, they deliver the most nutritional bang for your caloric buck!

Here are a few healthy and tasty choices to consider:

Chia seeds – edible seeds that come from a flowering herb in the mint family. They were used as an energy booster in ancient Aztec and Mayan cultures, which makes sense, because chia seeds contain a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, and a healthy blend of carbohydrates, protein, fiber, antioxidants, and calcium. You can add these mild, nutty seeds to foods and beverages for a heart healthy energy booster!

Blueberries – delicious, easy to eat and packed with healthy antioxidants, blueberries are also high in potassium and vitamin C. Be sure to add them to your shopping list, along with their colorful friends, acai berries, goji berries, raspberries, cranberries, strawberries, and cherries. Not only can they lower your risk of heart disease and cancer, they are also anti-inflammatory (and did I mention tasty?) When selecting berries, the rule of thumb is that the darker the berry, the more nutrients are packed inside!

Kale – it’s been called the “healthiest vegetable on the planet!” Just one cup of kale contains about 100% of your daily requirements for vitamins A, C and K, providing major cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s also rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote healthy eyesight. Plus, kale is a great source of potassium, iron, phosphorus and manganese – as well as over 45 different varieties of antioxidant flavonoids that lend themselves to cancer prevention!

Salmon – veggies are great, but I always recommend that you add some protein in too. Lean protein helps you to feel full and satisfied, without adding fat to your diet. In addition, wild salmon, along with herring, sardines and mackerel is rich in omega 3s, which lowers heart disease risk, helps arthritis, and helps with memory loss and Alzheimer’s. It’s also believed that omega 3s are beneficial in treating depression.

Tea – swap out your morning coffee for a cup of tea! The overall antioxidant power of black tea is the same as green tea, but green tea also contains ECGC, an especially powerful antioxidant. A recent Japanese study on green tea found that men who drank green tea regularly had lower cholesterol. Researchers in Spain and the United Kingdom have also shown that ECGC can inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

Almonds – nuts are another superfood rich in healthy fats that help you slim down, and they’re a great way to get your protein on the go! Almonds are high in protein, heart-friendly, and very filling. While a bit high in fat, they are one of the few foods that, like olive oil and avocados, contain the healthy monounsaturated fat, which is proven to help stave off heart disease and diabetes and to help lower bad cholesterol. Limit yourself to 10 – 15 almonds a serving, and keep the skin on to maximize the healthy benefits.

These nutritional superstars are just a few of the foods that nutritionists and health experts are touting these days. I’ll be delving into this topic more deeply in my upcoming healing courses.

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