Happy Fall Equinox 2015

Pyramid of Kukulkan

At the Autumnal Equinox, we begin a new cycle on the Medicine Wheel of Life, entering the West--the home of autumn, twilight, Bear, introspection, and transformation. During the spring and autumn equinoxes, when the day and night are in balance, the Pyramid of Kukulkan (or Quetzalcoatl the feathered serpent god) at Chich'en Itza, Mexico is visited by its namesake. On every equinox, the sun projects an undulating pattern of light on the northern stairway for a few hours in the late afternoon--a pattern caused by the angle of the sun and the edge of the nine steps that define the pyramid's construction. These triangles of light link up with the massive stone carvings of snake heads at the base of the stairs, suggesting a massive serpent snaking down the structure. On the equinox, Kukulkan returns to earth to commune with his worshipers and provide blessing for a full harvest and good health before descending into the underworld.

5 Herbs That Help Induce Lucid Dreams

The latest trend in lucid dreaming is the use of herbs to increase dream recall and trigger more dreams where you become aware you are dreaming. There are more than enough legal natural herbs that are completely safe, have no side effects, don't put any strain on your nervous system, and have many positive physiological benefits. These herbs can greatly increase your chance to go lucid, but they will not do the trick alone. These herbs are worthless if not taken with the right mindset, as well as more traditional forms of lucid dreaming induction. However, taken with intention, respect, and as part of an ongoing mind-training program, these herbs may enhance the opportunities to work with self-awareness in the dream. Here are five legal herbs that will help induce lucid dreams:

 

 1. Mugwort: Mugwort is a commonly used herb in Europe. It's believed to help settle the stomach and treat digestive troubles, and it can also be used as a dream augmenter. Mugwort can be smoked, burned as an incense, or used as a tea.

2. Mexican Tarragon: Tarragon is another dream enhancing herb. It's commonly used in Mexican dishes and is frequently used in traditional Dia De Los Muertos observances for its powers of inducing lucid dreaming. This can be used as a tea or incense as well.

3. African Dream Bean: Off the coast of Madagascar, as well as in some parts of Australia and Asia, you'll find this rather common bean growing. It's used sometimes as a skin treatment and is also great for teething babies. It's most interesting use is its power to induce not just lucid dreams, but dreams that purportedly connect you with the spirit realm. The bean itself is eaten for this effect.

4. Wild Asparagus Root: Wild asparagus root, which is fairly widespread, is legendary for allowing your consciousness to soar during sleep. It purportedly helps you achieve dreams of other dimensions and places as you sleep. It can also help relieve stress and help keep your lungs and kidneys healthy.

5. Blue Lotus: For the ancient Egyptians, the Blue Lotus was among the most sacred of plants. It was associated with life origins and divine perspectives. It was also used to stimulate sex drive and fertility. The ancients believed it could slow down the process of aging. Many believe that this flower was soaked in water or wine and could be used as an intoxicant. It helped its user achieve visionary states.

Drums: The Rhythm of Life

Drums are the most essential and widespread instrument in the history of human culture; its pulsing heartbeat is the rhythm of life. Rhythm and resonance order the natural world. Dissonance and disharmony arise only when we limit our capacity to resonate totally and completely with the rhythm of life. The origin of the word rhythm is Greek meaning "to flow." We can learn to flow with the rhythm of life by simply learning to feel the beat, pulse, or groove while drumming. When drummers feel this rhythmic flow, especially at a slower, steady beat, they can shift into a state of deep relaxation and expanded awareness. It is a way of bringing the essential self into accord with the flow of a dynamic, interrelated universe, helping us feel connected rather than isolated and estranged.

To learn more about drums and the rhythm they create in life, look inside A History of Religion in 5 1/2 Objects by religion scholar S. Brent Plate. In this beautifully written book, Plate explores how five everyday objects--stones, incense, drums, crosses, and bread--are intricately connected to spirituality. Plate analyzes the deep-rooted similarities in how these objects, connected to the five senses, have been used among different religions, and across history. It's truly a great joy to read.

Burning Man Dreamtime

Burning Man is North America's quintessential experience of waking life having the characteristics of a dream. Once a year, tens of thousands of participants gather to create Black Rock City in Nevada's Black Rock Desert, dedicated to community, art, self-expression, and ReDreaming the "World-as-it-is" into the "World-as-it-can-be." They depart one week later, having created unbelievable artistic experiences that contribute to the collective dream, and having left no trace whatsoever. I invite you to view my new music video "Burning Man Dreamtime."