Simple Steps to Maintain Balance

Written on January 22, 2012 at 12:43 pm, by Leo Sawicki

The Medicine Wheel Concept teaches the traveller how to be free of physical and psychological restraints. The steps and four directions help the traveller focus their attention on developing skills attached to their purpose in life.

The first step is Respect for the self and others.

With Respect comes Growth. Growth includes moving away from destructive or damaging thoughts, words, relationships and environments. Growth makes room for creativity and new thought forms.

The next step is Truth. Truth to the self and others allows the traveller to move freely as they are not tied down by trying to remember false details. Truth is a protector and a shield.

Know that these things take time and clear thought. Eliminate all distractions.

When one is able to left go of old thoughts and emotions the mind is free and goals will manifest quickly.

By maintaining Purity and only staying in your own story the quality of actions and the blending of consciousness with subconsciousness dictate how quickly one will accomplish their goals and dreams.

The next step of Renewal will bring new thoughts, relations and directions. Along with Renewal comes an increased sense of self confidence.

Sit for a time and contemplate how you got here and where you are. Is there any unfinished business or forgiveness that will greatly influence your future. If so set about a plan to address these issues in a good way and let them go. How honest you are with yourself will determine the level of growth that you will be able to achieve.

Remember, in order to journey into understanding and to gain a sense self it is necessary to clearly communicate your thoughts.

Start the new year developing skills you need to more you in the direction you wish to travel.

Symbolism

Written on January 2, 2012 at 7:23 pm, by Leo Sawicki

Change in roles, responsibilities and behaviors happen as one moves from a child to a provider to a teacher, decision maker and on to a spiritual advisor. A basic requirement for understanding change is to spend time alone and listen to your thoughts.

It is important to look at your world from many points of view. Study your surroundings and circumstance and recognize your life as a journey through constant change.

Sometimes people get stuck in old ways of thinking and in other peoples expectations, demands and opinions. This prevents them from fully functioning in the present.

Know that growth takes courage and power; the power to discipline your thoughts and to move towards new initiatives.

A sacred object such as a personal pipe can help maintain a strong connection with your sense of self and provide guidance and direction on your journey of personal growth. The Pipe is a way of life that comes from the heart. Pipe carriers are role models. There are a number of Pipes and ceremonies associated for example, a healing pipe, a woman’s pipe, a grieving pipe and a personal pipe.

Among many things the Pipe is used to speak truth and heal wounded or broken relations. The joining of the bowl and the stem teaches us to recognize and honour male and female energies and to walk in Balance.

As the Pipe is loaded each pinch of tobacco is blessed and all our relations are invited to enter in Spirit form to be honoured and smoked. This includes the Creator, the Star Nations, Father Sky, Mother Earth, Grandmother Moon, Grandfather Sun, the Four Directions, the Stone People, the Winged Ones, the Standing Tree People, the Finned Ones, the Four Leggeds, the Insects and Creepy Crawlers and the Two Leggeds. Harmony is obtained with this sacred union of all relations who are asked to enter our being and share the sacred space of our life experience.

The smoke of the Pipe represents visualized prayer and reminds us of the Spirit in all things. When the Pipe is shared, the words spoken and agreements made are based on honour, truth and mutual understanding. It is important to smoke every pinch of tobacco in the bowl in order to release the Spirit of those you have called to assist.

Direct teachings of the Pipe include the need to balance the self towards inner peace and towards obtaining a greater understanding of your role in the whole of creation. Pipe teaches us to make peace with the self and to realize our full potential. The Pipe is a ceremony of honour to the the blessings of Great Mystery. It is a way of giving thanks for who you are and why you are here.

When dealing with change symbolism is a powerful and effective way to maintain and activate knowledge. Like the Pipe, symbolism provides a means for immediate recall. It is able to transmit understanding at a glance.

The Medicine Wheel Concept symbolizes the connection between human being and nature. It is believed that a teaching such as the Medicine Wheel Concept belongs to all people.

The source of power in the symbol you choose and its meaning is entirely up to you.

Your Thoughts Shape Your Destiny

Written on November 20, 2011 at 10:14 am, by Leo Sawicki

When a person gives daily attention to positive thoughts their world changes. It is true that what a person thinks becomes their reality.  When you change your thoughts you change your life.

You can create change within your environment from the power of  knowing which areas need to be addressed and then setting out a plan of action.  Who you will become depends on your interests, wants, needs and desires.  Your visions and dreams are included.  Keep honesty in mind when you work with the medicine wheel concept.

Life is a well planned journey that requires constant effort to maintain the forces of order and growth.  Infact  life can be compared to a road trip.  To plan a memorable trip requires consideration.  There is a saying that when you have no map or desired direction any route will do.

For those who take the time to plan life holds great beauty.  They know where they wish to travel, how long they have to get there, where they will stop to rest, what they need to take, who they want to visit and what items are necessary to make a difference between comfort or discomfort on the journey.

There are certain areas and vaules that must be given attention.  One of the first steps is to understand the Law of Cause and Effect.  Begin by removing blame to make room for balance and harmony.  Know that life is a process of  learn, unlearn, relearn.

When one is able to  respect the self  by choosing good health and nutrition they avoid putting poison in their body and mind.  Healthy choices are necessary.  Know what areas of your life require more attention, i.e.: Spiritual, Emotional, Intellectual, Physical, Relationships or Goals.  Draw upon wisdom and compassion.  Challenge yourself  by asking good questions.  When you are able to respect and honour all by showing good judgement that energy is returned to you and others show respect in return.

If you wish to change something it is important to know what the cause of the problem is.  Identify risk behavior and list positive alternatives to interrupt negative habits.  The number of times you repeat a lesson that causes you or others pain and sorrow depends on your attitude towards growth. If you would like to change something begin by looking at your present situation and chart a new course or direction.  Often just changing your thoughts will change your world.

Go slowly.  Define one problem at a time. Decide what type of skills you require.  Are they better communication skills, better listening skills, better decision making skills? Identify people you admire and wish to become more like and study their ways.

The quality of your life journey depends on your ability to process life’s lessons quickly.  When you are aware of  how you think you can direct your thoughts and choose positive outcomes. 

Perhaps it is time to establish new values, beliefs and rules and build these into your action plan. Identify five new values, beliefs and rules you can begin to apply today.

Personal Attention Grid

Written on November 10, 2011 at 12:03 pm, by Leo Sawicki

Within the Medicine Wheel concept there are certain areas in one’s life that requires on-going attention. Things like nutrition, exercise, hygiene, rest, relaxation, play, work, family and goals are included. The list is seemingly endless.

The Medicine is in the thinking and only you can introduce new habits and interests to cultivate life long learning. Avoid the ‘same old same old holding patterns that are comfortable and that go no where. Challenge yourself and streatch your imagination.

When one’s attitude adjusts so does their perception of the world and this allows new energy and opportunity to flow their way. Stay awake and pay attention to the major influences in life.

Something as simple as a disorganized environment can influence how you think. It is certainly a reflection of the occupant. Look around and see what no longer fits or works for you and gently let go. Always bring in new fresh energy and only carry your own thoughts. Eliminating mindless chatter such as re-runs on old conversations and living in past moments makes room for new thoughts. New thoughts bring greater opportunities.

In a dream Seven Spirits gave Seven Gifts. The first was to Honour all Creation and have Respect. The second is to know Love is to know Peace. The third is to have Humility and know the self as a sacred part of all creation. The fourth is to possess Bravery and face your foe with integrity. The fifth is to cherish knowledge and know Wisdom. The Six is to walk in Honesty and face all situations. The Seventh gifti is Truth and to know all these things and to live by them. These gifts or teachings apply to all people.

When a person pays attention to their internal world their outer world is reflected by their thoughts. If they walk in beauty they are surrounded by beauty. If they walk in fear their world is often filled with strife.

Only you can choose how you will think. When a person draws upon the philosophy of the medicine wheel concept they are able to examine life wholistically and deepen the meaning of their journey.

By standing in the centre of your wheel and facing west, your journey takes your through experience and introspection in order to gain strength. Once you are able to arrange your thoughts you can return to the centre of your balance.

The same process applies for those who face the East Doorway. By communicating one gains wisdom and as a result Illumination, or a new understanding occurs. When one is able to communicate and understand life’s lessons through their thoughts and words the likelihood of having to repeat that lesson associated with growth is reduced.

The stones on the Medicine Wheel concept act as symbols for the traveller to gain a greater understanding of how thought influences the quality of your life. Decide where you are on the Path of Lessons and establish a path where you wish to journey in order for growth to occur.

Director of Your Thoughts

Written on October 19, 2011 at 10:20 am, by Leo Sawicki

Realize that you have influence over your thoughts and ultimately your life. Begin by establishing clear rules with principles of good communication. Be gentle on yourself for the lessons gained in the past and move beyond your brick walls.

Removing barriers in the thought world is necessary to rebuild structures and good relations with your self and others. This takes time and a willingness to move into the unknown. Know that you are judged by your actions, or lack of them.

Use a daily/weekly schedule for new activities to enrich your daily life and to expand your experiences. Choose one good habit a week to begin with. Remember to schedule time for your self to dream and relax.

Identify personal skills that you would like to develop and a new attitude built on new knowledge gained will be the result. Stay focused on what you are doing. It helps to have a buddy to encourage you.

When thoughts begin to scatter bring your attention back through your breath. Curl your fingers inward and on release point to the task at hand.

Any type of movement results in change. When you change your emotions you influence codes of conduct, behavior and have a greater ability to learn through opposites.

Recognize that your thoughts are influenced by your language, self talk and ability to ask good questions; afterall, the quality of your inner thoughts are reflected in your outer world.

Even though we live on the same planet everyone’s world is different because their thoughts are different.

Because the quality of questions you ask will influence the path and direction you travel, remember to ask yourself good questions, i.e. What do I wish to achieve today?

Monitor Your Self Talk

Written on October 13, 2011 at 6:10 pm, by Leo Sawicki

It is good to eliminate re-runs on old conversations and living in past moments.   When a person develops the habit of carefully arranging their thoughts they are able to recognize what teachings of opposites are.

In traditional world view search for knowledge and learning are lifelong pursuits.  Things like respect, love, humility, courage, wisdom, honesty and truth are shields that protect one from opposing forces.  Forces such as disrespect, hate, vanity, shallowness, foolishness, lies and a false sense of being.

Working with the medicine wheel concept helps to examine life wholistically and deepen the meaning of a person’s journey. 

By beginning in the West, one gains strength through experience and introspection. 

Strength requires tenderness, courage and compassion.  Become the Director of your own  life.  Have the strength to say ‘not now’ or ‘later’ to things that slow you down.

Instrospection is the act of looking inwards to examine your thoughts and feelings.  Generally one is able to see positive lessons that result from negative circumstances.

Experience is always your teacher and can come from observation or practice.  Experience results in a greater understanding of your purpose and the universe in which you live.

Entering through the East of your medicine wheel brings illumination based on wisdom and helps the traveller  to communicate clearly. 

Illumination can occur at the begining or the end of a lesson or learning cycle.  It is the result that makes the circumstance, or the lesson, associated with learning clear so it does not have to be repeated again.

Wisdom is accumulated learning and provides insight, good sense and sound judgement.

Communication is the act of transmitting knowledge or information. In the process it allows for an exchange of information or opinion.  (Even our bodies are vehicles we use to communicate with.)

The simple placement of stones in the medicine wheel concept act as symbols for the traveller to gain a greater understanding of how one’s thoughts influences their quality of life.

Know that by slowing down your thoughts and actions you will gain control over your reactions.  The medicine of the wheel is in your thinking.  Good thoughts are good medicine.

Movement is Change

Written on September 26, 2011 at 6:26 pm, by Leo Sawicki

By understanding how emotion influences thought you are able to shape your future.  Once you remove fear from your life you are free to choose.  Your thoughts, words and actions will dictate how quickly you will grow. Focus your attention and interest in new areas and away from activities that slow you down when you could be elsewhere.

The quality of your thoughts and the language you choose directly affects your emotions.  Move away from language that is destructive, harsh or negative and choose language that is supportive.  For those who have grown up in a physical or emotionally abusive environment, or that carry vivid memories of past hurts or inter-generational stories, it is necessary to overcome what is referred to as the Brick Wall Syndrome.

Changing your friends and activities associated with the brick wall syndrome and developing a new frame of reference for your life is an important step.  When your Spirit is strong you have an  ability to clearly communicate to yourself and others.  When you are able to display the wisdom that comes from new understanding personal growth occurs.   This widsom helps to establish a new set of values, beliefs and rules.

When a person is active planning and doing there is no room for negative forces.  Energy is directed at creating positive change.  Know that the quality of your life is directly influenced by the quality of your thoughts.  Learn to ask yourself good questions, i.e.: “What can I do to change circumstances and restore balance in my life in terms of emotions?” “What can I do to heal myself and rebuild my relationships in terms of my thoughts?” “What can I do to direct my future and balance my life in terms of my dreams, visions and language?”

It is important to hold only thoughts that inspire you.  Think of five good images from the past that have brought you happieness or shaped your life in some way.

Identify areas in your life that require attention.  Always introduce new habits.  Adjust your attitude and increase your perception.  Pay attention to the major areas of influence in your life.  Care for your environment and organize your surroundings.  Be physically comfortable at all times.  Remember to only carry your own thoughts.

Wisdom – A Time to make Peace with Self and Others

Written on August 21, 2011 at 1:41 pm, by Leo Sawicki

To keep your power, it is important to control your emotions and not allow the words or actions of another to influence your own actions and reaction. In other words, stay in your own story.

Through simple exercises applied to real life problems, each person creates their own tools and methods to be used for the highest good of all. By learning through opposites the traveller shares their journey with others and lays a plan of action by scheduling daily activities that address change.

By controlling emotions and thoughts the traveller is able to honour another’s path while constructing meaning and value to their own purpose, dreams and visions.

In order for change to occur you must have knowledge that something is wrong. Your breath and posture will tell you.

A good example is when you over-react and you allow your emotions to go unchecked. When someone is angry you shout back. They say something that offends you, you offend in turn.

You can gain control of your emotions by focusing your thoughts, directing your breath or using positive self talk.

Know that your language captures words of self talk that contribute to increased awareness, understanding and respect.

*Self knowledge begins by understanding yourself in relation to your environment. Realize that a person will cease to grow and just become reactory when they fall out of a natural rhythm with motion and change.

Remember, a fire will soon go out if it is not fueled.

Redefining the Self

Written on August 14, 2011 at 10:20 pm, by Leo Sawicki

The secret to life is to live it to the fullest, from your first breath to your last. 

Visualize who you will be one, five and ten years from today.  What will you be doing?  Where will you be doing it? Why will you be doing it? How will you be doing it?  Then what will you do?

Once you have identified these areas keep them in sight to serve as a reminder.

Know that the world is in a constant state of change and that it is natural for you to change as well. Inorder for change to occur within yourself it is important to change the way you view your potential.  Begin to think of yourself as the person you would like to be and take steps towards achieving what you wish to accomplish.

Know that you in relation to your world are in constant change and that your desires are based on your will and determination.  The appropriate knowledge, skills and experience will make your accomplishments easier.

Be aware that co-dependencies influence your life and can cause harm to the natural energy flow that surrounds you.  Look to the Laws of Cause and Effect to identify what the imbalance is and the effect it has on yourself and those around you than make a plan to change towards something more condusive to your desires. 

Revisiting values and beliefs is a great place to start.  Perhaps it is time for old ones to be gently released and new ones to be introduced.

The Natural Laws of Creation

Written on May 12, 2011 at 5:10 pm, by Leo Sawicki

We learn through balance and harmony to respect animal, plant, mineral , human and all our relations.

Excess of any type (such as anger, hate, jealousy) affects all parts of well being and results in one becoming unbalanced and disconnected with themselves and their environment.

Sickness, ulcers, headaches, stress, psychological and mental illness, injuries, accidents and even death are among the symptoms of abuse or misuse.

Sweatlodge Ceremonies restore wholeness to Spirit, Body, Mind and Emotion so that a new sense of self can emerge. Entry to the Sweatlodge is built into the earth. We enter on our knees to show respect to Mother Earth and in gratitude of food, shelter, and life she provides. It is said that as water is poured over the Grandfathers (heated rocks) steam releases the earths’ records and symbolically clears away the barriers of the Mind, Emotion, and Attitudes that influence Spirit. At a purely physical level, the Sweatlodge detoxifies the body.

Practice a Daily 15 Minute Balancing Meditation.
1. Find a comfortable space free from people or distractions.

2. Select a special time, either first thing in the morning or just before you go to sleep when you know you will not be disturbed.

3. Begin to control the count of your breath. Breathe in to the count of four. Hold to the count of four. One. Two. Three. Four. Release your breath to the count of four. Do this four times and each time see negative thoughts gently leaving your body.

4. Visualize yourself in a complete state of peace.

5. Understand that your thoughts shape your future and believe you are able to lead a healthy happy life. Strive to maintain a sense of divine perception in that this is the only moment that exists.

6. In your mind’s eye, have respect for yourself, your body, your relationships and imagine yourself being given respect by your community. See yourself as the ideal person you would like to become having new skills, friends and goals.

Remember to be gentle with yourself, after all you are still learning.