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Mold & Mycotoxicity Illness

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Mold & Mycotoxicity Illness

Nowadays, it seems like everyone you talk to is dealing with an autoimmune disease, uncontrollable allergies, chronic pain or fatigue, inexplicable headaches, and more. It couldn’t have always been this way, could it? How come more and more people every day seem to be afflicted by so many illnesses and conditions that no doctors can seem to treat?

While mold is certainly not the only answer, it is beginning to be seen by researchers as a culprit worth pursuing. Research into mold and mycotoxicity is growing in popularity, though it is still too young and unexplored for any conclusions to be made. To this day, there are still no definite warnings or recommended treatments from organizations we trust to help guide us in achieving wellness.

If you have been experiencing a myriad of symptoms that doctors cannot seem to find any proof or root cause of, it’s a good idea to look into how mold works and what can happen when it affects our bodies. Thankfully, there are already unofficial treatments that are forming, such as a detox, which might help you start feeling better.

Mold and Our Environment

When people think of mold, they jump straight to the more extreme, mature forms: visible black mold in showers and under sinks or white growths or fuzz on leftover food. What most people aren’t aware of is that mold is actually everywhere we can’t see, too. Before mold grows into forms we can see, it is floating about in the air we breathe, attaching to clothes and pets, carried in on our groceries, and embedding itself both outside and within our homes. Unfortunately, this also means that it enters our bodies regularly.

In fact, you could be regularly ingesting mold through your food. Common foods that contain high amounts of mold include:

      • Smoked and processed meats
      • Dried fruits
      • Alcohol like beer and wine
      • Nuts, most notably cashews and peanuts

Of course, mold just doesn’t exist. In order to thrive, it typically prefers warm, dark, moist areas. While you may have mold spores living on your furniture, in your clothes, and even in your dog’s fur, that mold won’t start really growing and causing issues until it lands in the perfect spot. For homes, that means growing in the tile grout in your shower.

In our yards, that’s the dark corner of our yard that doesn’t drain properly. For us, it means entering our system and hanging out while our body struggles to get rid of it.

It’s only when these mold spores start growing in their favorite places that they begin producing mycotoxins, which are believed to be the main culprit of any illness we experience due to mold.

Our Body’s War Against Mold Toxicity

Since mold is a naturally occurring thing in our environment, humans generally have the ability to get rid of it naturally. Our body has set processes for continually detoxifying our system, but some studies are now exploring why certain people are more prone to developing serious conditions brought on by exposure to mycotoxins, including specific genetic variations called SNPs.

Normally, exposure to mold can cause respiratory illness and worsened symptoms for those with respiratory conditions like asthma. Mold toxicity can also cause symptoms that are much like asthma, the flu, hay fever, and allergies.

Beyond that, mold has been shown to be a cause of some cases of pneumonia and eczema, and studies are now showing links to mold exposure with health effects on the brain such as memory loss and problems with vision and emotional regulation.

According to the World Health Organization, there are four major types of mycotoxins that have proven to cause serious health issues in humans and livestock.

      • Aflatoxins grow in grains, hay, decaying vegetation, and soil, meaning they are prevalent among crops and farm animals. It is most common to come in contact with these mycotoxins through spices, cereals, oil seeds, and tree nuts. These mycotoxins are damaging to both the liver and to DNA, possibly causing liver cancer.
      • Ochratoxin A is commonly found in dry vine fruits, coffee beans, cereals, spices, wine, and liquorice worldwide. It is most notably known for damaging the kidneys, but also can affect the immune system and fetal development.
      • Patulin is most commonly found in products made with apples that have gone bad. Liver, kidney, spleen, and immune system damage has been observed with exposure to patulin, as well as gastrointestinal issues.
      • Mycotoxins associated with the fusarium fungi, which all come under the umbrella of trichothecenes, are mainly common in cereal crops. Trichothecenes can cause severe reactions including sudden skin irritation and diarrhoea as well as oesophageal cancer. Research has also shown it can suppress the immune system, affect hormones, and even cause kidney and liver toxicity and infertility in animals.

How Can I Tell If I Have Mycotoxicity?

There are a number of methods for determining if your symptoms might be caused by mycotoxicity. So far, options include urine testing, bloodwork, nasal swabs, and a visual contrast sensitivity test. While some tests like the visual contrast sensitivity test can be bought online, other tests like the urine and bloodwork labs would need to be ordered by a provider and often aren’t covered by insurance.

The Organic Acids Test does include several biomarkers that could help determine if you have a fungal overgrowth and mycotoxicity. It will check for yeast and candida overgrowth as well as several mycotoxins. The IgE Mold allergy test can also determine if you have antibodies in your system built to fight against mycotoxins, which would determine if your body is actively trying to fight off infections from mold.

Sometimes, the most accessible way to know if mycotoxicity is affecting you is to undergo a complete detox and see if your symptoms subside.

Detoxing Your Body of Mold and Mycotoxins

If you suspect or know that your body is full of mycotoxins, you can try many methods for a detox that will assist your body in cleansing out the mold.

The traditional method is to cleanse the sinuses and the gut of fungal overgrowth through medicated nasal sprays and oral medications. For this approach, you’ll need to be diagnosed and prescribed treatments by your provider.

Some more accessible remedies include:

      • Increasing your intake of essential fatty acids to 3-4 grams each day
      • Taking binders like activated charcoal and bentonite clay
      • Using probiotics specifically known to fight mold, including S. boulardi, L. beveris, and L. pentosus
      • Adding supplements of vitamins C, A, E, and Zinc
      • Adding the antioxidant Glutathione to your diet
      • Utilizing herbal remedies like berberine, grapefruit seed, oil of oregano, uva ursi, gymnema, pau d’arco, garlic, caprylic acid, and plant tannins

As a daily routine, I recommend using herbal remedies like oil of oregano daily for immune support while you use other herbs like milk thistle or dandelion root to help your liver detox. Eating 2-4 grams of garlic daily will then help your body start ridding itself of the mold that is being fought off and detoxed by the liver and immune system.

Artichoke leaf extract and gingko bilboa supplements will help fight off the symptoms of mold toxicity while you detox, and then you should finish off with chlorophyll, which will help protect your body from further mold damage.

What to Eat During a Mold Detox

While you’re detoxing your body of mold, the last thing you want is to keep ingesting foods that are reintroducing mold into your system. Mold also thrives on starch and sugars, so avoid eating anything that will offer that food source. In general, avoid foods like mushrooms, vinegars, grapes, soy sauce,  aged and moldy cheeses, nuts, potatoes, corn, yeast, and simple carbs.

Instead, try eating a lot of kitchen garden herbs, bitter greens, root vegetables, cruciferous vegetables, chia and flax seed, oat bran, and foods high in healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, ghee, and fish.

Meanwhile, clear your air with essential oils like orange and clove!

REMEMBER!

You are a beautiful Living Being filled with light and love, born from stardust. You are unlimited potential in every direction. With a focus on discipline, virtue, and your own goodness, you can become as expanded and liberated as you desire.

Pray for others and the Universe prays for us.

Meet Paul Wagner

Paul Wagner (Shri Krishna Kalesh) is an intuitive mystic, clairvoyant reader, and a loving life & business coach. He created “THE PERSONALITY CARDS,” a powerful Oracle-Tarot deck that’s helpful in life, love, and relationships.

He created The Shankara Oracle, a profound divination tool that includes 18 gemstones, a lavishly designed divination board, and over 300 penetrative oracle cards – all to help you heal to your core and illuminate your Being.

Paul studied with Lakota elders in the Pecos Wilderness, who nurtured his empathic abilities and taught him the sacred rituals. He has lived at ashrams with enlightened masters, including Amma, the Hugging Saint, for whom he’s delivered keynotes at Her worldwide events.

Paul tours the world lecturing on spiritual liberation. He lovingly offers intuitive readings, inspirational coaching, and illuminating courses to help others with self-discovery, decision-making, healing, and forgiveness. Book a session with Paul: HERE

 

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Heart & Brain Benefits Of NAD+, Resveratrol, L-citrulline & More

The Heart & Brain Benefits Of NAD+, Resveratrol, L-citrulline, Pterostilbene, NMN & More

When we ask, the Universe provides. No problems we experience in our world have been unanswered or left without resolve, we just haven’t found the answers yet! When it comes to the benefits of NAD+ and other resources on aging, deterioration of our bodies, and conditions of the heart and mind, it’s no different. There are so many naturally occurring chemicals in our environment like NAD+, resveratrol, l-citrulline, pterostilbene, NMN, and more available to us, and it’s our responsibility to take advantage.

At first, the names of these chemicals can be really daunting – what is resveratrol, really? Where could I possibly find something named pterostilbene? The answer might surprise you – many of them are found right in common grocery items.

If you’re looking to harness the power that the Universe has provided us in order to better and lengthen your life, here’s the perfect guide for you.

Benefits of NAD+ on the Brain

Believe it or not, Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is actually a chemical that exists naturally in our bodies. We create and use NAD+ in our systems as an essential molecule for developing and regulating cellular energy. With great levels of NAD+ in our system, our brain health is most likely at its optimal.

Unfortunately, as with everything else, aging or chronic disease can lead our bodies to lesser levels of NAD+. As we lose our ability to produce enough NAD+, we lose out on the many benefits of NAD+ on our brains.

Let’s dive into a little more detail about exactly what NAD+ does for us.

NAD+ is a Messenger in Our Bodies

In Western Medicine, we often find ourselves focusing on the symptoms rather than the cause. Many medicines and treatments attack only one portion of what is a much larger issue, leaving us feeling a bit better but never on the mend. I prefer to look at things from a much more Eastern approach – Traditional Chinese Medicine treats us wholistically, attacking the source of the issues which permeate the entire body.

You might scoff at it, but it’s true. If one molecule or level or chemical is off in one part of the body, the effects ripple into so many other areas. We might end up experiencing symptoms that we never would have thought could be caused by something completely seemingly-unrelated.

Need proof? NAD+ acts as a messenger in our body, meaning it is in control of so many functions across our body that we never would have thought could be related. The same molecule that keeps your heart rate normal also controls your appetite and the way you sleep, and that molecule is NAD+.

NAD+’s wide-reaching influence has to do with the fact that it’s in control of neurotransmitters, which communicate signals from the brain to the rest of the body. Messages for your heart, liver, large intestine, and so much more are all depending on NAD+ to make it to and from the brain.

If you feel that you have a wide range of issues, such as changes in appetite, blood pressure, pulse, motor control, sleep, memory, and more, it’s very possible your NAD+ levels are involved. NAD+ is even an essential molecule that helps our body convert glucose into energy for our brains, so low amounts could mean a declined ability for the cells in our brain to keep functioning.

Benefits of NAD+ on Cognitive Function and Memory

Now that we understand a bit more about the function of NAD+ with neurotransmitters, it’s much easier to grasp that its role is extremely important for the brain. Our entire central nervous system depends on this molecule to take care of its messages, so it’s no surprise that it’s essential to our cognitive function.

As we grow older, we suffer a loss of blood flow to the brain and production levels of NAD+. As a result, many of us see our memories start to fade, both long-term and short-term. Researchers are now hoping that something called NDA+ IV therapy and supplements could improve the memory and cognitive function of older adults.

NAD+ is a Warrior Fighting Against Neurological Disease

Many neurological diseases affect memory and cognitive function, and we just learned that NAD+ can directly fight against it. Researchers are now very hopeful that restoring the right levels of NAD+ can help fight against diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease by boosting energy for brain cells. Even diseases transmitted to us that affect our nervous system, such as Lymes Disease, could be positively affected by increased levels of NAD+. Even if heightened NAD+ levels might not be able to completely cure neurological diseases, they have a great chance of at least relieving some of the more devastating symptoms and lengthening the time of a higher quality of life for these individuals.

NAD+ Protects Our Nerve Fibers from Demyelination

Demyelination is the breaking down of the coating of our nerve fibers, also known as myelin sheaths. These coatings keep our brain’s nerves intact so that messages between the brain and the rest of the nervous system – like the spinal cord – can continue to transmit properly and keep our whole body functioning as it should.

Demyelination can happen due to injury or degeneration. Either way, it can interrupt many key functions of our body such as vision, motor control, digestive function, muscle strength, and even cause pain.

Keeping healthy levels of NAD+ in our system means protecting our brain’s nerve fibers and maintaining a healthy function of our whole body.

Does NAD+ Therapy Have Side Effects?

NAD+ IV therapy includes using an IV to infuse your blood with NAD+ supplements. As a result, risks could come from improper usage of an IV. If the drip is too quick, some providers report that their patients experience brain fog, muscle fatigue, cramping, and nausea, but claim this can be resolved by slowing the drip. Otherwise, research has not found any side effects of taking NAD+ supplements.

Are There Other Ways to Boost NAD+?

Research has shown that levels of NAD+ in your system are not controlled on their own. There are many things you can do to alter the levels of NAD+ in your system that don’t require a direct infusion or supplement. In fact, NAD+ has many “precursor” vitamins and molecules that lead the body to produce more.

Nicotinamide riboside is one precursor to NAD+ that is found in milk. You can also increase exercise, limit your exposure to UV, and increase your intake of foods high in vitamin B.

Benefits of NAD+ Precursor Pterostilbene

For example, do you eat a lot of blueberries? Pterostilbene is a polyphenol found in the berries that is a precursor to NAD+. In other words, eating increased amounts of pterostilbene can directly increase the production of NAD+ in your body.

Further, pterostilbene activates your sirtuins, which regulate your response to signals from the environment and to your nutrition. As a result, you can gain better control of your appetite and regulate your circadian rhythm for better sleep, among other things.

Benefits of NAD+ Precursor NMN

NMN, or nicotinamide mononucleotide, is a direct precursor to our body’s production of NAD+ along with nicotinamide riboside (NR). NMN can be found naturally in foods like avocado, cabbage, cucumbers, edamame, and broccoli as well as through sources of vitamin B3.

Increasing the levels of NMN in our bodies directly affects how much NAD+ is produced naturally in our cells, although age has been shown to inhibit our body’s ability to convert NMN into NAD+ over time.

To fight back against these decreasing levels and production, taking NMN supplements is a great choice. Increasing levels of NMN can help with anti-aging as well as boost the effectiveness of our NAD+’s ability to protect and regulate our nervous system.

Benefits of Resveratrol

You might have found NAD+ a bit boring since it’s a molecule made in our bodies and requires medical assistance for improving its levels, but I think you’ll like this one a bit better.

Resveratrol is a part of what scientists call polyphenols, which probably sound more familiar. They are like antioxidants and can help fight against damage known to cause diseases like heart disease and cancer, and it’s something you can get in your kitchen!

Where have you heard of polyphenols and antioxidants? You can find them at the bottom of your bottle of red wine! That’s because resveratrol naturally occurs in the skin of red grapes, and it’s also in berries and peanuts.

Resveratrol is Anti-Aging

I’m sure you’ve heard it a thousand times – drinking a glass of red wine has some amazing benefits, including anti-aging properties. Well, that goes for adding more resveratrol to your diet across the board. Researchers have been mainly testing the effects of resveratrol on animals, but so far, results have been promising.

One of the biggest reasons for these promising results is that resveratrol has anti-inflammatory properties. By lowering inflammation in the body, you can reduce puffiness as well as improve the way you feel and the function of your body’s natural processes. As an antioxidant-like chemical, resveratrol can also rid your body of toxins that are affecting the way you look and feel.

Resveratrol is Anti-Disease

A part of living a longer, healthier, and more beautiful life is fighting against neurodegenerative diseases. If you have inflammation in your system, it could be negatively impacting your cognitive function, motor skills, memory, and control of bodily functions. Much like the benefits of NAD+, the benefits of resveratrol have to do with protecting your neurotransmitters, and it does this by reducing inflammation and oxidative distress.

Further, studies have shown that resveratrol may play a huge role in helping to lower bad cholesterol, prevent insulin resistance, and even limit the spread of cancerous cells. Hopefully, continued research can help us utilize resveratrol to cure diabetes, cancer, and heart disease!

Are There Risks to Taking Resveratrol Supplements?

The jury is out on whether resveratrol supplements have side effects and risks according to the NIH. Resveratrol is not a regulated supplement, although it seems to be sufficiently safe with no serious reported side effects in healthy people.

They report that both short-term low doses and long-term higher doses have shown no side effects for healthy people, but that heightened doses might cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and even liver dysfunction if you have fatty liver disease. As always, it’s important to consult with your healthcare providers before adding supplements to your daily routine.

Where Can I find Resveratrol Naturally… and Not in Wine?

The key to finding resveratrol naturally is to break it down into its derivatives. In that case, piceid might be your answer. Piceid is one of the most important derivatives of resveratrol, and it can be found in many grape juices. In other words, you can still benefit from the awesome effects of drinking red wine without the alcohol.

Benefits of L-Citrulline

Okay, so where do benefits for the heart come in? Well, we already mentioned that the benefits of NAD+ improve regulation of blood pressure and heart rate, and the benefits of resveratrol include lowering bad cholesterol and rates of heart disease. L-citrulline has to do with the blood-brain barrier and control over blood flow throughout the body.

It also fights against neuronal cell death. Overall, L-citrulline can protect our brain’s interactions with our cardiovascular system, improving any cerebrovascular dysfunction.

The best part? You can get L-citrulline naturally in watermelon! If you’re not a fan, the molecule also comes in supplement form.

L-Citrulline Fights Cardiovascular Diseases

L-citrulline is a molecule that is a neutral amino acid, and it plays a key role in the nitric oxide cycle. This cycle produces nitric oxide – a molecule that relaxes your arteries and improves blood flow.

Because of this amazing benefit, L-citrulline is considered a great supplement for those who suffer from high blood pressure and are at risk of heart disease. Because blood pressure issues and heart disease are directly correlated with erectile dysfunction, L-citrulline treatment is also a great natural alternative for improving these symptoms.

L-Citrulline Could Help Malnourishment and Intestinal Problems

The research is still in its early stages, but L-citrulline has also shown promising results when it comes to animal testing regarding muscle protein levels. If the same results transfer to humans, then L-citrulline could be an amazing option for helping to improve malnourishment, especially in the elderly whose levels of muscle protein decline naturally.

Further, intestinal problems like celiac disease, small bowel damage due to radiation exposure, and even short bowel syndrome are possible conditions that could benefit from L-citrulline supplements.

Are There Risks to Taking L-Citrulline Supplements?

Unfortunately, there are no standards set yet by the FDA or any health authorities regarding taking L-citrulline supplements. Research is not far enough along yet for any solid case to be made for its benefits and risk. So far, though, there have been no reported side effects of taking the supplement.

With extra precaution, people are advised not to take L-citrulline supplements if there are pregnant, breastfeeding, on blood pressure medication, taking nitrates for heart disease, or any erectile dysfunction drugs. There are concerns that taking L-citrulline supplements might interfere with the effectiveness of these drugs, although there is no proof yet.

The Benefits of Arginine

When it comes to supplements that are making a name for themselves, arginine is certainly one of them. Lately, researchers and medical professionals are emphasizing the importance of arginine in our body’s natural functions. Arginine has huge implications for our heart health, especially.

Deficiency in arginine is rare because it’s a pretty abundant nutrient. It can be found in poultry, fish, red meat, dairy, nuts, seeds, grains, and more. As you can imagine, a vegan who doesn’t eat other sources of protein like nuts and grains could be in trouble (and not just because they don’t have arginine), but you most likely have sufficient levels otherwise.

What Does Arginine Do?

Arginine is extremely important for our kidneys, maintaining hormone levels and our immune system, wound healing, and controlling the arteries. In fact, this molecule is an amino acid that is converted into nitric oxide, the neurotransmitter we talked about earlier that helps with our circulation. If you’re worried about cardiovascular diseases and conditions, arginine is a great natural supplement for you.

Are There Risks to Supplementing with Arginine?

At low and moderate doses, there has been no evidence of risks or side effects when taking arginine supplements. If you’re taking higher doses, such as over 15 grams per day, you might start experiencing cramps, nausea, and diarrhea, so just stay conservative.

Allow the Universe to Provide

You are a beautiful Living Being filled with light and love, born from stardust. You are unlimited potential in every direction. With a focus on discipline, virtue, and your own goodness, you can become as expanded and liberated as you desire.

If you are seeking answers and help in the face of health complications, I’m so sorry that you are struggling. Not many other situations are quite as troubling as not feeling like you have control of your health.

Pray for others, and the Universe prays for us. The Universe provides all that we need, we just need to take advantage of it. The benefits of NAD+, resveratrol, arginine, and so many other naturally occurring elements will guide us through.

Meet Paul Wagner

Paul Wagner (Shri Krishna Kalesh) is an intuitive mystic, clairvoyant reader, and a loving life & business coach. He created “THE PERSONALITY CARDS,” a powerful Oracle-Tarot deck that’s helpful in life, love, and relationships.

He created The Shankara Oracle, a profound divination tool that includes 18 gemstones, a lavishly designed divination board, and over 300 penetrative oracle cards – all to help you heal to your core and illuminate your Being.

Paul studied with Lakota elders in the Pecos Wilderness, who nurtured his empathic abilities and taught him the sacred rituals. He has lived at ashrams with enlightened masters, including Amma, the Hugging Saint, for whom he’s delivered keynotes at Her worldwide events.

Paul tours the world lecturing on spiritual liberation. He lovingly offers intuitive readings, inspirational coaching, and illuminating courses to help others with self-discovery, decision-making, healing, and forgiveness. Book a session with Paul: HERE

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How Mushrooms and Trees Communicate and Thrive

How Mushrooms and Trees Communicate and Thrive

Deep in the forests, in places uncharted or untouched by man, there is an incredible and unfathomable network of living organisms that accomplish things we never dreamed they could before. The ability for other living organisms to communicate with each other, even organisms that many of us view as the lowest on the “food chain” of life, is actually astounding. One of these amazing instances is how mushrooms and trees communicate and thrive in their natural habitat.

That’s right – mushrooms are truly magical, and that’s not just because so many species of mushrooms are dubbed “magic mushrooms” for their hallucinogenic properties. They’re truly magical because they’re so complex beyond our understanding.

How Do Mushrooms Work, Exactly?

When you think of mushrooms, you probably get the image of the cute little mushroom cap popping up out of the damp soil. While this image is correct, it’s actually leaving out a much bigger picture. The mushroom caps you see popping up are the equivalent of the fruit that grows on a tree – they are the reproductive parts of a much larger system that we cannot see underground.

To fully understand how mushrooms and trees communicate, you’ll need to understand the different parts of the mushroom network. The three major parts of the mushroom network to understand are the mushrooms themselves, their spores, and the mycelium.

What is Mycelium?

Mycelium looks and acts a lot like roots do for a tree. While we cannot see the mycelium unless we dig it up and study it, the structures are quite massive. Mycelium spreads out much further and wider than the mushroom caps we can see, yet they are still only made of thread-like roots that grow no more than a few thousandths of a millimeter in width per thread.

Mycelium spreads and penetrates food sources nearby, such as organic materials from which it can extract sugar. To extract sugar, mycelium needs to secrete enzymes that break down the organic materials it attaches to.

While mycelium sounds like its structure is fragile, it’s actually a very complex and intentional system of threads that last well beyond the lifespan of any mushrooms it sprouts! In fact, mycelium continues sprouting new mushrooms throughout its lifetime to continue the cycle of life.

Because mycelium is so complex, researchers have been discovering new ways to take advantage of such a resilient and interesting structure, such as paving way for new opportunities in sustainability and healthcare.

What Do Mushrooms Do?

The “fruits” of the mycelium network are the mushrooms we see sprouting up from soil or wood. There are too many species of mushrooms to count, so it’s hard to define exactly how they look. The most popular structure of a mushroom looks like a trunk with a cap on top, and even these types of mushrooms come in endless colors and variations. There are also mushrooms and fungi that grow more like tubes or mounds.

The most important job of the mushroom is to produce and distribute spores, which are the reproductive “seeds” that spread and set up new mycelium networks if they land in the right places. These spores root and grow mycelium much like a seed from the fruit of a tree would under the right environmental conditions.

Once the job of the mushroom is done – whether its spores are spread by the wind, passing animals, or other transportive means – it dies away. When it comes to the lifespan of a mushroom, though, there is a wide range depending on the species. While some smaller, simpler species of mushrooms can be fully grown in just one day, other large mushrooms can take a few months.

What’s So Important About Fungi and Mushrooms?

For many people, mushrooms are gross, ugly, and are signs of moldy and damp areas. For others, they are merely good for mealtime. In the wild, though, mushrooms play an extremely important function in the environment’s survival. We should truly look at them as a sign of rebirth!

Fungi and mushrooms are an entirely separate category of life all on their own. While plants use photosynthesis to generate energy from the sun and animals eat food to digest nutrients, fungi externally digest nutrients before they absorb the food into their network.  Fungi break down dead and decaying organisms in the environment to fuel themselves, making them nature’s great recycler.

Without mushrooms and mycelium in our environment, the world would be a wasteland of dead plants. Fungi is the reason why dead plants can decay and make way for new life.

Okay, so maybe you already know that. But did you know that there’s an even cooler function for mushrooms and their mycelium in the wild? It has to do with allowing trees to communicate!

How Mushrooms and Trees Communicate

Despite popular knowledge, plants DO talk! In fact, trees can communicate with their neighboring trees much like herds of animals can communicate and work together for survival. How do they do it?

As you can imagine, the lifespan and survival prowess of mycelium underground lends itself to quick expansion. Spores continue to plant and create new mycelium networks in the soil and organic materials endlessly, and mycelium can literally live forever. Mycelium, therefore, expands underground and connects tree roots to other tree roots, creating a massive communication network that trees have learned to utilize for survival.

The network that mycelium creates for its own survival is also a tool for symbiosis with trees. The trees use the mycelium to transport nutrients and messages to each other. The mycelium graciously allows the trees to use them as a network for communication and offers nitrogen and phosphorous to the trees. In exchange, the mycelium is allowed to extract sugar for fuel from the tree roots. Scientists have found that mycelium actually digests 30% of the sugar that trees create from their photosynthesis efforts.

This symbiotic network is now referred to as the mycorrhizal network.

Wait… Trees Do What?

I bet you never imagined that scientists could claim that “mother” trees talk to younger trees to warn them of environmental threats. Old, wise oaks can tell saplings not to chase the light or shed leaves for fear of dooming their successful growth. One tree can even warn another tree of an impending drought or spreading disease.

Mainly, trees use their mycorrhizal networks to send resources back and forth to their fellow trees. Often, they share carbon that they’ve harvested from the atmosphere to ensure that the trees within their network are all thriving.

Beyond their carbon food, they can also send messages to alert others of danger. These trees use a method called “allelopathy,” which is the transmission of certain chemicals from one tree to another to warn them of a specific type of threat.

In response, the neighboring trees can act appropriately to defend themselves from the threat. Usually, this means they will excrete certain chemicals to stop the growth of a predatorial plant, prevent spreading disease, or ward off threatening infestations of insects.

This awareness and subsequent defense against environmental threats don’t even stop at biological and natural threats. Scientists have been able to prove that forests of trees can become aware of major destruction like deforestation and send warnings through their mycorrhizal networks to their fellow trees!

Believe It Or Not, Trees Can Be Tribal

Your mind is probably already blown away learning about mycorrhizal networks, and it certainly is a complex concept on its own. To make it even more complicated, trees can actually decide which trees they want to communicate with through these fungal networks.

Not just any mycelium network can create a symbiotic relationship with any tree species. Certain fungi prefer specific tree species so that both the tree and the fungi can benefit to the fullest extent from the exchanged nutrients. While it is believed that all trees are capable of forming these mycorrhizal networks, not all trees take advantage of them due to the lack of the correct fungi in their environment.

The majority of mycelium-tree symbiotic relationships consist of the “arbuscular mycorrhizal network,” which creates extensions of complicated structures that attach to the trees. The other remaining 35% or so of networks use combinations of fungi.

In addition, trees can prefer to only network with trees of their own species! For example, a birch tree might only be willing to connect with other birch trees. How can they tell? Specific tree species send off unique chemical compounds that identify them, and other trees can either recognize or not recognize that compound as their own unique compound.

Scientists have named this sort of “tribal” behavior within species as “kin recognition.” While they can’t prove that this kin recognition is happening for a specific reason, scientists believe that trees do this to ensure that trees of their own species survive and outlast other species so that they can become dominant in the area through easier reproduction.

At the same time, there are species of trees that are willing to connect with each other and share space within the same mycorrhizal network. Scientists have found birch and fir trees connecting and interacting through mycelium as a way to improve their resilience and longevity. Diversity is important, even nature knows it!

What Exactly Do the Communication Signals Look Like Amongst Trees?

Similarly to how scientists delve deep into researching the vocalizations and body language communications of animals, scientists are just now realizing that they can begin to decifer the language of trees. How mushrooms and trees communicate is one thing, but now how do trees use the mushrooms to communicate with each other?

In short, researchers describe the communication signals amongst trees as hormonal or chemical messages and slow-pulsing electrical signals through the mycorrhizal network. One Swiss scientists, Edward Farmer, is beginning to decipher the electric pulses that trees send to each other. He now believes that the majority of communication is a language of stress and warnings – they mainly communicate dangers to each other rather than content social speech.

Another scientist based in Arizona, Monica Gagliano, has been working on detecting if trees also communicate by emitting noises. She believes that trees can create sounds at a frequency of 220 in their roots, which is inaudible to humans but would sound like a crackling noise.

Finally, scientists have discovered that trees communicate with each other through the air and actually have senses of smell and taste. A great example is the way acacia trees can emit warning pheromones to surrounding trees that giraffes are beginning to eat their leaves. In response, the surrounding trees begin producing tannins at such large quantities that the leaves become sickening or even deadly to large herbivores.

Humorously enough, giraffes have become wise to this tree’s ability, so they’ve begun feeding downwind to prevent the trees from being able to send warning smells in the air.

Another intriguing example is the pine tree and the elm tree have to release warning pheromones when they detect catepillar saliva on their leaves. These pheromones are actually meant to attract the very species of wasp that enjoy feasting on catepillars! Many trees also recognize the taste of deer saliva and will begin producing chemicals to make the leaves taste bad to ward the predators off. We know that these chemicals only happen in response to the saliva because other kinds of injuries, such as snapping a branch, do not elicit the same response.

Peter Wohlleben’s Controversial Yet Astounding Work

Learning how mushrooms and trees communicate and thrive isn’t just a startling discovery for you. Scientists are still trying to grasp just how far this communication among plants goes. In fact, a forester in Germany has only in the past few years put together what is now his life’s work for a large audience in his book The Hidden Life of Trees.

Peter wanders through the forests near him, pours himself over research, and makes astounding discoveries about how these mycellium networks and communicative properties of trees actually stabilizes and supports the whole ecosystem. In one example, Peter discusses how he once came upon a once-gigantic tree that was felled with only the stump remaining. Upon a closer look, Peter discovered that the stump was still alive and processing chlorophyll, which would be impossible without his deeper understanding of the mycorrhizal networks.

How is this stump alive? Peter explains that the surrounding trees are still pumping nutrients and water to the stump despite its inability to provide for the rest of the trees in the network. “They are reluctant to abandon their dead, especially when it’s a big, old, revered matriarch.”

The amazing network of trees doesn’t end there. Peter further asks us to explain how such small young seedlings in dense forests can possibly obtain the sunlight and water they need to survive when crowded out by much older, larger trees.

In answer, he explains that the surrounding trees in their network provide for them so that they can grow and thrive. These seedlings receive the sugar they need through their roots rather than by photosynthesizing all of it themselves. In other words, Peter says, the mothers “suckle their young.”

Peter understands that applying such anthropomorthic phrases to trees is overdoing it by a little. At the same time, he hopes that the way he presents the community of trees in a way that’s highly intelligent and social, full of respect and support for each other, will help others see nature in a different light. He hopes that it will raise awareness for just how destructive and horrifying actions like deforestation really are, and that the world will wake up to having a deeper respect for our natural world.

What Can We Learn from How Mushrooms and Trees Communicate and Thrive?

The Universe is all interconnected. To dismiss the complexity and sentience of beings other than ourselves is not to rob ourselves from absolute beauty and wisdom, but to disrespect them and rob them of the treatment and empathy they deserve. I often hike through nature myself and can no longer ignore just how amazing our world is, how motherly and intelligent nature truly is. It can be difficult to not get frustrated when others can’t see what I see.

I urge you to stop and find stillness every day. Don’t let the hustle and bustle of daily life distract you from just how awesome and powerful our Universe is. Look within yourself, recognize that we are part of something so much bigger than ourselves. Learn from the sense of community and responsibility for those in need that even the trees and the mushrooms have.

Identify and nourish your symbiotic relationships with others. Send love, recieve love. Send forgiveness, receive forgiveness.

REMEMBER!

You are a beautiful Living Being filled with light and love, born from stardust. You are unlimited potential in every direction. With a focus on discipline, virtue, and your own goodness, you can become as expanded and liberated as you desire.

Pray for others and the Universe prays for us.

I am here to help you awaken and bravely create an inspired life. Learn more about my services today and start changing your life in the most positive way.

If you find this process helpful, you might also check out The Shankara Oracle. 

Meet Paul Wagner

Paul Wagner (Shri Krishna Kalesh) is an intuitive mystic, clairvoyant reader, and a loving life & business coach. He created “THE PERSONALITY CARDS,” a powerful Oracle-Tarot deck that’s helpful in life, love, and relationships.

He created The Shankara Oracle, a profound divination tool that includes 18 gemstones, a lavishly designed divination board, and over 300 penetrative oracle cards – all to help you heal to your core and illuminate your Being.

Paul studied with Lakota elders in the Pecos Wilderness, who nurtured his empathic abilities and taught him the sacred rituals. He has lived at ashrams with enlightened masters, including Amma, the Hugging Saint, for whom he’s delivered keynotes at Her worldwide events.

Paul tours the world lecturing on spiritual liberation. He lovingly offers intuitive readings, inspirational coaching, and illuminating courses to help others with self-discovery, decision-making, healing, and forgiveness. Book a session with Paul: HERE

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St. Patrick – The Patron Saint Of Ireland

 

When most people think about St. Patrick’s Day, they think of the color green, shamrocks, and drinking Guinness Stout (well, or the local favorite, Murphy’s); yet, few know the true story of Maewyn Succat and how he used his superpower of empathy to save the beautiful folks of early Ireland by reducing their suffering.

 

Early Life

St. Patrick was born Maewyn Succat around 450-500AD. His father, Calpornius, was a decorated Roman-British officer and a deacon at their local Catholic church. Although raised in a Catholic family, it would be years till Maewyn would understand his connection with God and lead others to deepen their own spiritual journeys. 

The earliest reports of the young St. Patrick’s faith were not recorded until his stint in slavery, believing that his imprisonment was punishment for his lack of proper catechism and belief.

At the young age of 16, Maewyn was stolen from his family’s house in Britain by a group of Irish raiders. He was smuggled into Ireland and forced into slavery for six long and painful years. 

During this time, Maewyn turned to his faith to help him cope with his daily struggles. He regularly had vivid dreams that he used to direct his focus. In his book, Confessio, Maewyn explains that he interpreted these dreams as his way of asking his higher Being, God, to guide him.

One of these dreams came to the 22-year-old slave the night of his escape. In it, he saw a boat waiting for him at the harbor. Following his vision, he indeed found a boat that granted him safe passage back to Britain. After another brief capture, Maewyn was finally reunited with his family.

For many, the story of Maewyn Succat ends when he returned home after his time in slavery. One night, Maewyn had a dream that he received a letter titled “The Voice of the Irish.” In the background of his dream, he could hear Irish denizens begging him to walk among them. Unfortunately, in the dream, Maewyn could not read the rest of the letter, but the message would shape the rest of his life. It would also become the foundation of his forever legend.

Maewyn soon traveled to France and trained in a monastery. Twelve years later, under the direction of the Pope, he would return to Ireland as a Bishop. After returning, Bishop Maewyn Succat’s goal was to spread Christian teachings and compassion to all he met. 

Bishop Succat brought gifts to Kings and lawmakers, while accepting no gifts in return. Over time, the public recognized his goodwill and compassionate nature and started calling him Patrick, Based on the Latin root for father, patr.  

 

Miracles of the Father Saint

While St. Patrick was not officially recognized as a Saint until the 1700s, there is no short list of miracles performed during his mission to Ireland. There are several reports of St. Patrick bringing the dead back to life, some of whom had been dead for a year or longer before being resurrected by the great saint.

St. Patrick is also credited for the lack of snakes in Ireland. During a 40-day fast, he is reported to have chased them into the sea after being attacked by serpents. 

Although scholars argue that the climate is too cold in the region to accommodate snakes, many believe the island was infested before St. Patrick arrived there. Some believe the story evolved over time, choosing to look at the tale as a metaphor of how the saint chased evil and blasphemy from a tainted land.

 

Modern Day Symbolism

 Shamrocks

This three-leafed national flower of Ireland is found decorating parties around the world. Traditionally, these leaves are worn on the lapel or pressed into books for preservation. St. Patrick used the flower to describe the holy trinity to those who were unaware of the Judeo-Christian belief. 

This lovely saint explained that three equal parts stem from the stalk, just how the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost stem from one’s own heart and faith. The lesson was so popular, many associate the foliage directly with the Saint’s life and mission. These days, adding a clover to anything qualifies it as a St. Patrick’s Day decoration.

 

The Color Green

In America, you might get pinched if you don’t wear green on the 17th of March, but the color green was not the official color of the patron Saint. St. Patrick was known for wearing blue robes, a color that was so popular, it became known as St. Patrick blue. 

Unfortunately, Ireland and Britain’s history is dotted with war and strife, which was seen as synonymous with the color blue. Ancient Irish flags are blue, and the original coat of arms of King Henry VIII was blue and adorned with a golden harp. 

Over time, the Irish considered blue to represent the English government and chose the color green to protest English rule. After the Irish Rebellion of 1798, green became a symbol of nationalism and the traditional St. Patrick Blue was lost to history.

 

Corned Beef, Cabbage, and Potatoes

Traditionally, St. Patrick’s Day is a religious feast. Over the years the meal has shifted to a holiday that celebrates Irish heritage and the ancient traditions of this magical homeland. Even with the change in how people celebrate this day, the culinary staples have remained the same.

Foods eaten on this holiday connect participants to Irish heritage, while also presenting access to those in need. Corned beef, cabbage, and potatoes were staples in the relatively poor country.

Before the modernization of farming, cattle was only kept in Ireland for dairy and manual labor. Beef was difficult to find and only available for the rich. The British introduced cattle farming to Ireland and popularized the dish, but the meat still struggled to make it on the table of many families. While Beef wasn’t cheap, Ireland was known for its abundance of salt.

Salt was so cheap in Ireland, grains the size of corn kernels were added to beef to keep the meat from spoiling as it matriculated down the socioeconomic ladder. This new preserved beef was named corned beef and became a major export for the country.

The use of potatoes and cabbage is a nod to the many times Ireland faced food shortages. Back then, tubers and hearth vegetables survived the cold and were often a constant on a family’s table. The limited resources at the tie led to culinary innovations like Shepherd’s Pie and other hearty dishes centered around vegetables.

Leprechauns

The tiny fairy-like beings of Celtic lore are usually found adjacent to rainbows or pots of gold, yet traditionally, Leprechauns are not affiliated with St. Patrick. 

Leprechaun Day is March 13 and celebrates these mischievous beings, who can either bring good or bad luck to those who meet them.

Though most people think of tiny bearded men in top hats, Leprechauns are historically thought to be cranky Beings who protect their own treasures, giving it to those who can catch them. 

Because Leprechauns are celebrated just four days prior to St. Patrick’s Day, the holidays have been slowly merged into one, with most ignoring the 13th outright.

Some argue that Leprechauns don’t mirror the core beliefs of St. Patrick, but, like the Saint, the Celtic fairies reward those who have faith in higher power. 

I LOVE fairies and leprechauns. It’s quite remarkable when one avails himself to you. Seek them out and surely they will appear before you!

 

St. Patrick’s Day In The United States

While the purpose of this holiday is to celebrate Irish Heritage, most of the modern practices were developed in the United States of America. During the great Potato Famine, millions of Irish migrated to metropolitan areas like New York, Chicago, and Boston. With them, these immigrants brought their own cultures and blended them with the preexisting colonial lifestyle.

The earliest parade was thought to originate in Boston, but in 2018, a study at USF discovered the first St. Patrick’s Day parade may have been celebrated in 1600 in St. Augustine, Fl. Currently, there are hundreds of St. Paddy’s parades celebrated around the globe.

Since 1962, Chicago has dyed the cities central river green for St. Patrick’s Day. Before the first ceremony, the city would annually test sewage levels by adding dye to local water. It’s rumored that a rogue group of plumbers dumped a large quantity of the dye into the river as a harmless prank, but a long-lasting tradition was born from their fun!

The massive volumes of Irish immigrants who had moved to Chicago had called for larger celebrations for the Saint. The city responded by annually dying the river to illuminate and honor Irish pride and culture.

 

The Core Beliefs of St. Patrick

Like most Masters and Gurus, St. Patrick was born with a different name. As he traveled around Ireland and shared his beliefs, people whom he healed and touched, later renamed him. 

St. Patrick selflessly helped those in need and cared not only for the physical needs of others, but he nurtured the spiritual connection he knew they lacked. Ol’ Paddy’s love may have been watered down throughout the years, but through the ceremonies, parades, shamrocks, and Saint Patrick’s Day Catholic masses, the saint’s message of love, healing, community, and religious fervor remain in tact and as potent as they were back in the day.

Calling out to St. Patrick and other saints and Light-Beings, we acknowledge our connection to all beautiful and loving Beings throughout spacetime. Invoking a saint, guru, master, or avatar helps us connect with the light and embed into our lives. 

Hail St. Patrick! With Love And Loyalty, We Invite You To Fill Our Lives With Hope And Goodness!

If you find this process helpful, you might also check out The Shankara Oracle. 

Meet Paul Wagner

Paul Wagner (Shri Krishna Kalesh) is an intuitive mystic, clairvoyant reader, and a loving life & business coach. He created “THE PERSONALITY CARDS,” a powerful Oracle-Tarot deck that’s helpful in life, love, and relationships.

He created The Shankara Oracle, a profound divination tool that includes 18 gemstones, a lavishly designed divination board, and over 300 penetrative oracle cards – all to help you heal to your core and illuminate your Being.

Paul studied with Lakota elders in the Pecos Wilderness, who nurtured his empathic abilities and taught him the sacred rituals. He has lived at ashrams with enlightened masters, including Amma, the Hugging Saint, for whom he’s delivered keynotes at Her worldwide events.

Paul tours the world lecturing on spiritual liberation. He lovingly offers intuitive readings, inspirational coaching, and illuminating courses to help others with self-discovery, decision-making, healing, and forgiveness. Book a session with Paul: HERE

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Spiritual Bypassing And How It Can Harm You

Image of being walking into silhouette of a head - Paul Wagner

Image of being walking into silhouette of a head - Paul Wagner

 

We all have our avoidance mechanisms. Maybe it’s a Netflix binge to avoid dealing with something uncomfortable in your life, or perhaps it’s constantly checking your phone so you don’t have to address the awkward silence with a friend.

Whether we know it or not, most of us put up roadblocks that keep us from having to really look at something uncomfortable going on in our lives and deal with it. Such avoidance mechanisms are referred to as “spiritual bypassing,” which is a term coined by psychologist and author John C. Calloway in his spiritual bypassing book, “Unitive Thinking: New Visions of Self, Community, and Society.”

In his article “Spiritual Bypassing: What It Is and Why It Matters,” Dr. Neela Samant explains that spiritual bypassing refers to “a tendency among enlightened individuals to use their spirituality as a means of evading rather than addressing problematical aspects of themselves—what they see as negative or unworthy parts of themselves—as well as challenging social issues such as oppression, injustice, and inequality.”

The following will explain what is spiritual bypassing, why you might be doing it, how it might hurt you (and others), and how you can stop doing it once and for all.

What Is Spiritual Bypassing?

Spiritual bypassing is when you use your spiritual practice or beliefs to avoid addressing issues that are uncomfortable to you. You use your spiritual or growth practice as an “out” clause to avoid addressing something you don’t want to deal with. This might be an issue related to your psychological health, some unresolved trauma, or something that challenges your identity.

What Are Examples of Spiritual Bypassing?

If you’re not sure if you’re spiritual bypassing in your own life, here are some examples:

  • Dismissing Emotions as “Low Vibration“: Trying to avoid any anger, sadness, or frustration in your life by brushing them off as negative and suppressing it. You don’t acknowledge it and process it as a natural part of growth. 
  • Overusing Positive Thinking: Turning to affirmations and forcing optimism to deny your present pain and challenges instead of facing them.
  • Escaping Through Meditation or Spiritual Practices: Using meditation, prayer, or rituals instead of dealing with the responsibilities you have in your present life. Or avoiding dealing with your trauma and personal growth through these escapes. 
  • Blaming Karma or Past Lives: Deciding suffering is all because of “bad karma” or past-life experiences instead of owning up to your actions or poor decision-making.
  • Spiritual Superiority: Judging others but walking around knowing you are much more “awakened” or “enlightened” than others.
  • Suppressing Boundaries in the Name of Compassion: Engaging with toxic relationships or behaviors and excusing it as spiritually loving and unconditionally accepting instead of setting boundaries.
  • Believing in Instant Enlightenment: Deciding that one spiritual retreat, psychedelic experience, or meditation session can heal everything but not doing any deep inner work or reflection.
  • Projecting Spiritual Teachings onto Others: Telling others to just let it go and forgive without acknowledging their pain, trauma, and lived experiences.
  • Relying Solely on Manifestation: Believing that thinking positive thoughts on their own can somehow change circumstances and outcomes without taking any practical action.
  • Escaping Accountability in Relationships: Proclaiming difficulties in relationships are only “lessons from the universe” and not taking responsibility for your actions or working to set healthy boundaries.

Woman holding light orb - Paul Wagner

Why Do People Spiritual Bypass?

People use spiritual bypassing because it’s easier than facing what’s really going on. Whenever something challenges your identity or you have some unresolved trauma that you haven’t dealt with, it can be painful and uncomfortable to confront that. It can feel like you’re being pulled into a black hole of self-doubt.

There are also issues of scarcity that can come up when you’re faced with your own struggles. You might feel like you’re not “good enough” or that there isn’t enough “success” or “perfection” to go around. In this way, confronting your issues can feel like a threat to your own sense of security and identity.

What Are the Dangers of Spiritual Bypassing?

When you use spiritual bypassing, you don’t really get to confront your issues and work through them. This means they stay stuck in your system and continue to manifest in your life as unhealthy behaviors and thought patterns.

What often happens is that you might see some initial success using your spiritual practice to avoid dealing with your issues, but then your issues catch up with you. When this happens, you may feel like you have to turn to your spiritual practice even more, which can cause spiritual bypassing to become a chronic pattern in your life.

How To Stop Spiritually Bypassing?

First, you need to be aware that you’re doing it. To do this, you can keep a journal where you write down your feelings and thoughts. You can also talk to a trusted friend about what you’re dealing with and notice what you’re turning to as an “out” clause.

When you become aware of what you’re doing, you can start to challenge the thought patterns that lead you to use your spirituality as a crutch. Start to notice what you’re telling yourself and whether it’s actually true or not. You can also try to apply the same rules to yourself that you would apply to a friend.

Confront Yourself Head-On

When we look at ourselves with honesty, we release suppressed emotions and the personalities we create that don’t really honor who we are. If we continuously paint everything pretty and purple, we will have no pathway to deconstruct our false Selves. Take a look at yourself, honestly. Admit your faults and work towards improving them. Release the aspects that do not serve you. Own your nature and life so that you can advance mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

What The Masters Say About Spiritual Bypassing

I can’t provide direct quotes from Amma or Mother Meera on spiritual bypassing, but I can offer insights that align with their teachings and spiritual wisdom from these awakened masters. Both Amma and Mother Meera are known for taking a compassionate and practical approach to their spiritual teachings:

  • Amma’s Perspective: Amma, often emphasizing the importance of selfless service and genuine compassion, might say that true spirituality is not an escape from life’s challenges but a deep engagement with them. When we use spirituality to bypass our emotions or challenges, we’re missing out on the opportunity for growth. Instead, let your spiritual practices be a means of cultivating inner strength and resilience to face life’s ups and downs with an open heart.
  • Mother Meera’s Perspective: Mother Meera, who emphasizes the transformative power of silent presence, might share that silence and stillness are powerful tools for self-discovery, but they shouldn’t become part of avoiding life’s complexities.

How to Get Out of Spiritual Bypassing?

1) Cultivate Self-Awareness: Both of these great spiritual teachers would probably advocate for cultivating self-awareness. When we can recognize how and when spiritual practices are being used to avoid difficult emotions or challenges, we can use that honest self-reflection as a crucial step in our spiritual growth.

2) Integrate Spiritual Practices: Amma and Mother Meera may also suggest integrating spiritual practices into our daily life in a more holistic way. We should avoid compartmentalizing our spirituality as an escape mechanism and instead make it part of how we deal with life’s challenges from a place of compassion. 

3) Embrace Shadow Work: Shadow work explores how we integrate the parts of ourselves that we’ve pushed away and into the shadows. Both Amma and Mother Meera might encourage us to practice shadow work on our spiritual journey to acknowledge the aspects we were trying to avoid.

4) Seek Genuine Connection: Spiritual bypassing can sometimes stir from a place of yearning to transcend human experiences. Amma and Mother Meera would probably focus on the idea of genuine connection with ourselves and others as a grounding foundation for spiritual growth.

5) Practice Compassion: Compassion is a theme in many spiritual practices, but especially in the teachings of Amma and Mother Meera. They would likely tell us to embrace our vulnerabilities and imperfections with love and understanding as an integral part of our spiritual journey. 

In essence, Amma and Mother Meera would likely emphasize that authentic spirituality involves facing life’s challenges with courage, compassion, and a genuine willingness to grow. 

Use Your Spirituality for Good

The point of spirituality is to help you be the best version of yourself you can be. It’s not there to be a crutch to get you out of dealing with things that challenge your identity. The more you confront your issues with spiritual bypassing, the more you’ll be able to use your spirituality for good.

You’ll also be a better friend to those who are dealing with their own issues by not using your spirituality as an “out” clause. There will always be challenges in life, and they are what make life exciting and meaningful.

By confronting your issues and using your spirituality to support yourself, you’ll be a happier, healthier, and more empowered person.

Being releasing heart into sky - Paul Wagner

Meet Paul Wagner

Paul Wagner (Shri Krishna Kalesh) is an intuitive mystic, clairvoyant reader, and a loving life & business coach. He created “The Personality Cards,” a powerful Oracle-Tarot deck that’s helpful in life, love, and relationships.

He created The Shankara Oracle, a profound divination tool that includes 18 gemstones, a lavishly designed divination board, and over 300 penetrative oracle cards—all to help you heal to your core and illuminate your Being.

Paul studied with Lakota elders in the Pecos Wilderness, who nurtured his empathic abilities and taught him the sacred rituals. He has lived at ashrams with enlightened masters, including Amma, the Hugging Saint, for whom he’s delivered keynotes at Her worldwide events.

Paul tours the world lecturing on spiritual liberation. He lovingly offers intuitive readings, inspirational coaching, and illuminating courses to help others with self-discovery, decision-making, healing, and forgiveness. Book a session with Paul: HERE.

 

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The Art of Positivity in the Face of Adversity: Insights from The Vedas, Buddhism, and Hinduism

Being meditating to seek enlightenment - Paul Wagner

We might never know why someone is attacking us. They might be deeply traumatized or they might have a sprinkle of evil within them.

The reason you might be experiencing adversity or attacks is most likely due to karma from a prior life. It might also be a divine intervention to inspire you to unearth a handful of feelings or vibrations that trapped within your core. Sometimes a provoking event can truly and fully free us. You might also have secret intentions or attitudes that include a form of Self-hatred or violence, which can attract similar attributes in our oppressors and challengers. 

We attract what will uplevel us in all circumstances – but only if we yield to the nature of the event and choose to heal what is within us and rise above it all.

There is no exception. Regardless of the infraction, we always have the option to choose at least a sprinkle of gratitude. Doing so, avails us to our inner master and wisdom, opens our hearts,releases stifled emotions, and improves the states of our hearts and minds.

In the tapestry of life, challenges and adversities are inevitable threads. The ancient wisdom of the Vedas, Buddhism, and Hinduism offers profound insights on how to stay proactive, even positive in the face of attacks or oppression.

Drawing on the teachings of enlightened masters, these rich traditions guide us toward resilience, love, and encouragement even in the darkest moments.

Cultivating Inner Strength through The Vedas

The Vedas, the ancient scriptures of India, teach us that adversity is an inherent part of the human journey. Yet, they also provide a roadmap for maintaining positivity in the face of attacks. The Bhagavad Gita, a revered text within the Vedas, imparts wisdom on navigating challenges with grace.

Sage Yajnavalkya reminds us, “When you are insulted, you should remain silent; when praised, you should be equally silent.”

This ancient teaching encourages us to cultivate inner strength by not letting external circumstances dictate our inner state. The Vedas invite us to look beyond the surface of attacks and oppression, understanding that our true essence remains untouched by external forces.

Buddhism’s Noble Path to Resilience

Buddhism, rooted in the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, offers a transformative perspective on responding to adversity.

The Four Noble Truths

The Four Noble Truths, foundational to Buddhist philosophy, acknowledge the existence of suffering but also provide a path toward liberation from it. By embracing the truth of suffering without succumbing to negativity, we can find the strength to endure attacks.

These ancient and penetrative truths are a foundational concept in Buddhism, setting forth the essential principles that form the framework of the Buddha’s teachings. These truths encapsulate the nature of human suffering and the path to liberation. Here are the Four Noble Truths:

Dukkha (Suffering): The first noble truth acknowledges the inherent nature of suffering (dukkha) in human existence. Dukkha encompasses not only overt pain but also the more subtle forms of dissatisfaction, unease, and impermanence that are integral to life. It serves as a recognition that suffering is an intrinsic part of the human condition.

Samudaya (Cause of Suffering): The second noble truth identifies the cause of suffering, known as samudaya. This cause is often attributed to craving or attachment (tanha). The insatiable desire for pleasure, possessions, and the continuation of existence contributes to the perpetuation of suffering. Recognizing and understanding the origins of suffering are crucial steps on the path to liberation.

Nirodha (Cessation of Suffering): The third noble truth introduces the concept of nirodha, which signifies the cessation or end of suffering. Liberation from suffering is attainable by eliminating the root cause, namely craving or attachment. Achieving a state of mental tranquility, known as Nirvana, is the ultimate goal. It involves breaking free from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara) and attaining a state of complete liberation.

Magga (Path to the Cessation of Suffering): The fourth noble truth outlines the path leading to the cessation of suffering, known as the Eightfold Path (Magga). The Eightfold Path consists of ethical and mental guidelines that practitioners follow to cultivate wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline.

The path comprises Right Understanding, Right Intention, Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration. Following the Eightfold Path enables individuals to overcome craving, attain insight, and eventually achieve liberation from suffering.

If you find this process helpful, you might also check out The Shankara Oracle. You might also love The Sedona Method, created by Lester Levensen. It can be quite healing and helpful.

The Four Noble Truths provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the nature of suffering, its origins, the possibility of liberation, and the path to achieving it. This foundational teaching forms the basis of Buddhist philosophy and serves as a guide for practitioners seeking to transcend the cycle of suffering and attain enlightenment.

Thich Nhat Hanh, a contemporary Buddhist monk, offers guidance on embracing suffering with mindfulness:

“The seed of suffering in you may be strong, but don’t wait until you have no more suffering before allowing yourself to be happy.”

This teaching encourages us to remain positive even amid challenges, finding moments of joy and resilience despite external pressures.

Hinduism’s Call to Detachment and Love

In Hinduism, the concept of detachment from the fruits of one’s actions, as outlined in the Bhagavad Gita, offers a powerful tool for maintaining positivity under attack. Lord Krishna advises Arjuna, “You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.”

This teaching encourages us to focus on our efforts without being overly attached to the outcomes. By doing so, we can weather attacks with a positive spirit, understanding that our actions are expressions of our inner values, regardless of external responses.

Enlightened Masters’ Wisdom

Enlightened masters from these traditions provide profound insights into staying positive under attack. Swami Vivekananda, a key figure in Vedanta philosophy, speaks of the power of resilience:

“Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is reached.”

His words inspire us to persevere with unwavering positivity, recognizing that challenges are but stepping stones on our journey.

From the Buddhist tradition, the Dalai Lama emphasizes compassion as a response to hostility:

“Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.”

This teaching underscores the transformative power of love in the face of adversity.

Swami Sivananda, a revered Hindu spiritual teacher, offers guidance on responding to oppression:

“Do not be ruled by three D’s – Deha (body), Dhan (wealth), and Dampatya (family). Have control over the Indriyas (senses).”

This advice encourages us to rise above material attachments and societal expectations, finding strength within ourselves.

Practical Steps Toward Positivity

Meditation – Meditation takes you deep within the Self where no external influence can disturb you, namely in the face of attacks. Allow yourself a moment of pause and meditation before reacting, giving space for a deeper awareness of yourself and your triggers, while also inspire a thoughtful and positive response.

Cultivate Empathy – Respond to oppression with empathy and compassion. As the Amma suggests, when we grow empathy and compassion, we exercise our divine nature.

Mata Amritanandamayi, affectionately known as Amma or the Hugging Saint, often shares profound insights on empathy and compassion. While exact quotes may vary, her teachings consistently emphasize the importance of cultivating compassion and understanding for others. Here’s a sentiment aligned with her teachings:

“Compassion is the essence of true wealth. It means having an understanding heart that embraces all of creation.”

~ Amma

This quote encapsulates Amma’s emphasis on compassion as a transformative force that goes beyond individual or material wealth. It conveys the idea that true richness lies in the capacity to understand, embrace, and extend compassion to all beings.

Amma’s teachings inspire people to embody empathy and compassion in their daily lives, fostering a more compassionate and interconnected world.

Focus on Virtue – When faced with attacks, draw strength from your inner values. Remember that your actions are a reflection of your character, and staying true to your principles can bring a sense of purpose and positivity.

Self-Inquiry – Looking deep within and seeking answers to the tougher questions can free you over time. If you can release deep-seated emotions and get into addressing the roots of your traumas, you will improve your Self-understanding and greatly improve your perspective and life.

Summary

In the symphony of life, maintaining positivity in the face of attacks or oppression is an art that draws inspiration from the ancient wisdom of Vedas, Buddhism, and Hinduism.

As we navigate the complexities of existence, enlightened masters guide us toward resilience, love, and encouragement.

By embracing these teachings, we not only find strength within ourselves but also contribute to a more compassionate and positive world. Remember, even in the stormiest moments, the light of positivity can guide us to calmer shores.

 

If you find this process helpful, you might also check out The Shankara Oracle. You might also love The Sedona Method, created by Lester Levensen. It can be quite healing and helpful.

 

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Healing Your Liver, Spleen, Thyroid, Adrenals

The liver and spleen are two of the most important organs in your body. They carry out a variety of tasks, including making iron, managing fat, eliminating toxins, activating enzymes, and making as well as excreting bile, among others.

Similar to how it impacts body temperature and heartbeat, the thyroid also controls the body’s metabolism, or how energy is consumed by tissues.

However, a large number of people are unaware that an underactive thyroid and adrenal functions may be to blame for their exhaustion, weight gain, and depression.

Your liver and spleen, among other organs, may work better thanks to herbal medicines. The thyroid and adrenal glands may benefit from the assistance provided by these herbs. The article bellow will discuss a few of these useful herbs.

 

HERBS FOR LIVER

Milk Thistle

One of the most widely used herbs for the treatment of liver cirrhosis is milk thistle. Though originally from the Mediterranean area, milk thistle is now found all over the world. When crushed, the leaves of the milk thistle plant release a milky liquid.

The active component of milk thistle is silymarin, which protects your liver and treats illnesses including cirrhosis, hepatitis, and fatty liver. Silymarin, a flavonoid mixture, aids in the regeneration of liver cells affected by alcohol and other toxins.

Turmeric Root

One of the most potent Ayurvedic herbs is turmeric root (Curcuma longa), which has been used for generations in India. Turmeric is well regarded for its enormous anti-inflammatory properties and for curing and preventing a wide range of inflammation-based disorders.

Turmeric is also hepatoprotective, preventing damage to liver cells (hepatocytes) by aiding in the detoxification of reactive species when they change from lipid to water soluble to water soluble. By donating itself to balance out the free radical species that cause cellular damage, hasten illness, and promote liver ageing, this contributes to the powerful antioxidant benefits of turmeric root.

Dandelion

In Western herbalism, dandelion root (Taraxacum officinalis) is a key herb for detoxification and healthy liver function. It is among the greatest herbs for repairing the liver.

A cholagogue, hepatoprotective tonic, and gentle phase 1 liver detoxifier, dandelion root is a bitter herb. Additionally, it acts as a mild diuretic and increases bile secretion and gall bladder constriction.

Artichoke Leaf

Artichoke leaf, which is frequently consumed in North America, Europe, and the Mediterranean, is increasingly recognised as a crucial liver support supplement. It contains cynarin, which has been shown to stimulate the liver’s bile production. This improves the effectiveness of the body’s detoxification processes, assisting various organs in getting rid of dangerous pollutants like alcohol and other substances.

Artichoke leaf also includes the vital flavonoid silymarin, just as milk thistle. Silymarin is most well-known for its capacity to shield the liver. By assisting those at risk of coronary heart disease to maintain appropriate cholesterol levels, artichoke leaves also improve general health and wellbeing.

 

HERBS FOR SPLEEN

Dandelion Root

One of the best supplements for enhancing the health and function of your spleen is dandelion root, which is used in dietary supplements. According to Mitchell, dandelion root has traditionally been utilised as an alternative medicine or therapeutic ingredient to cure enlargements of the spleen and liver. According to “Therapeutic Herb Manual” author and master herbalist Ed Smith, dandelion root also works as a diuretic and kidney cleaner to enhance hunger and working of digestive system.

Eu Yan Sang

The traditional folk treatment Si Shen Herbal Soup has been improved with Eu Yan Sang’s Healthy Digest, which regulates the stomach and spleen. Young and old can both enjoy it. To support your spleen and enhance digestion generally, it may be wise to add wholegrain meals, red dates, Chinese yam, and lotus seeds into your regular diet.

An Ji Le pills by Eu Yan Sang are traditionally used to treat the symptoms of headache, moderate nausea, mild vomiting, mild diarrhoea, and indigestion. The constituent herbs work to promote spleen function and eliminate bodily moisture. It is also appropriate for kids under the age of 10.

Astragalus

Astragalus root is regarded as a warming, slightly sweet tonic plant. It has an energy that is rising. Astragalus is specifically a Spleen Qi Tonic and a Lung Qi Tonic in Traditional Chinese Medicine. As a result, it is used in the treatment of lung and spleen Qi deficiency.

According to TCM, the Spleen is in charge of converting food and drink into Qi and Blood. Check for spleen dysfunction first if someone is deficient in Qi or energy. The energy that maintains our entire body, Zhen Qi, is created after the Spleen converts food and liquids into Qi. This Qi then ascends to the Lungs where it combines with Lung Qi.

Fatigue and sluggishness, loose stools or diarrhoea, poor appetite, phlegm and dampness, weak arms and legs, and prolapsed organs are all signs that the spleen is short in qi (such as haemorrhoids). Astragalus root is a Spleen Qi tonic that boosts energy, improves digestion, and can raise prolapsed organs. It also raises appetite.

 

HERBS FOR THYROID

Licorice

One of the oldest herbal treatments in use today, licorice is a native of Western Asia and Southern Europe. By lowering cortisol levels in the body and shielding the thyroid gland from oxidative damage, it enhances thyroid function.

Licorice contains strong antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, according to research-based information. This can ease many thyroid problem symptoms and make your life easier.

Black Cumin

Another herb used in old Algerian medicine to cure thyroid issues is black cumin, or Nigella sativa. It has biological elements and phytochemicals that assist a number of bodily processes, such as; Alkaloids, Phenolics, Coumarins and Flavonoids.

Black cumin can enhance thyroid function generally as well as for patients with this particular problem, according to a 2016 study examined the impact black cumin has on Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, a disease that eventually destroys the thyroid.

Lemon Balm

This plant has a wide range of traditional applications, including as supporting sound sleep, reducing tension and anxiety, and treating indigestion. Additionally, studies have indicated that it may be advantageous for those who have hyperthyroidism.

According to one study, the extract protects Grave’s disease patients’ thyroid receptors from the components that cause the thyroid to become overactive. Lemon balm is widely employed as an antiviral medication, which lightens the burden on your liver. Thyroid problems and viral infections frequently co-occur.

 

HEALING ADRENAL FUNCTION

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, another adaptogenic plant, balances our brain’s central nervous system by influencing our cortisol levels. It is a common herb used to maintain normal healthy thyroid function, emotional balance, healthy energy levels, and normal immune function. It is one of the more well-known adaptogens for ensuring healthy adrenal gland activity.

The name Ashwagandha literally translates to “horse smell,” as it is believed to give you the vigour and stamina of a horse. Since ashwagandha belongs to the nightshade family, it is advised to choose a substitute herb to strengthen your adrenals if you have a known or suspected nightshade allergy. Ashwagandha has warming qualities and is excellent for people who get chilly easily or are more easily exhausted.

Licorice Root

In Europe and Asia, licorice is produced. A highly appreciated Chinese medication is licorice. It is present in practically all of the Chinese herbal formulae with patents. The most popular herb for supporting the adrenals is licorice. It is a moderate tonic and anti-stress herb that is believed to boost vitality, energy, and endurance.

Licorice has been used to help alleviate the symptoms of hypoglycemia, a frequent side effect of impaired adrenal function, and it is known to naturally boost cortisol levels. Aldosterone production is boosted, which is good because advanced adrenal fatigue typically lacks this hormone. Licorice can calm upset stomachs, increase blood flow through the heart and arteries, and boost the immune system’s production of molecules similar to interferon.

Nettle Leaf

Although nettle leaf is not generally thought of as an adaptogenic plant, it can be very effective in treating adrenal fatigue. Vitamins A, C, and K, as well as magnesium, iron, calcium, and potassium are all abundant in nettles. In light of this, nettle is a herb that is highly nutritious for the entire body and, more particularly, an adrenal tonic.

Meet Paul Wagner

Paul Wagner is an Intuitive Life & Business Coach, clairvoyant reader, and a five-time EMMY Award-winning writer. He created “THE PERSONALITY CARDS,” a powerful Oracle-Tarot deck that’s helpful in life, love, and relationships. Paul studied with Lakota elders in the Pecos Wilderness, who nurtured his empathic abilities and taught him the sacred rituals. He has lived at ashrams with enlightened masters, including Amma, the Hugging Saint, for whom he’s delivered keynotes at Her worldwide events.

You might also checkout the groundbreaking divination tool The Shankara Oracle – the most penetrative and life-changing oracles on Earth. It takes you far beyond what tarot and oracle cards can do – and offers a truly divine transformation.

Paul tours the world lecturing on spiritual liberation. He lovingly offers intuitive readings, inspirational coaching, and illuminating courses to help others with self-discovery, decision-making, healing, and forgiveness. Book a session with Paul: HERE

 

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What Does It Mean When We Say “No Excuses”?

 

You are an unlimited Being, born from myriad miracles. Nothing is stopping you from growing, healing, and moving beyond your current circumstances and conditions. There’s karma to contend with, but prayer and your focus on an enlightened master or God, you can burn through karma. There will be pain, but the pain is transforming you.

Throughout our lives, we see many people succeed and many who fail. We might worship those who reach the tops of mountains, and we might dismiss those who often suffer defeat. As we wander the planet pursuing our passions and interests, we might secretly worship one of the world’s “winners” in our mind’s eye, hoping that one day we’ll achieve a status equal to theirs. In our focus on these individuals, we forget that our karma is unique.

Our paths are unique. And as such, we must forge unique trajectories to shift, transform, or transcend. 

Amid our own victories and failures, we learn what works and what doesn’t. We either improve, pivot, or die. If we’re honest with ourselves, we might admit that we rarely learn from our mistakes. Unwilling to dissolve our stubbornness and addiction to outdated behaviors and beliefs, we fail to free ourselves from bad habits, ill-conceived pursuits, and a variety of misconceptions. It all comes down to our excuses.

The idea of “no excuses” sounds simple, but we complicate it due to our self-perceptions and exhaustion. After all, life on Earth has become quite intense and complex these days. But when it comes down to it, you either want to grow and heal and improve your conditions, or you do not.

You might feel, “well, this pain, this situation, this is the way it is,” but we can always improve our circumstances, even if it’s only one small step at a time.

If you want to truly change and advance your position in the world, it probably won’t be easy. It will most likely require self-sacrifice and hard work. It will also require you to move beyond your temporary self-identities, attitudes, false desires, mental perseverations, and ego, and into a state of humility, honesty, and wonder.

If you’re too enthused with your identity and ego, or if you’ve become accustomed to playing the victim, you’ll continue to defend the notion that excuses are real – but they are not.

An excuse is a statement that we use to justify our inability to find pathways to improved conditions. It’s often contrived out of thin air and presented within ourselves in such a way that it brings us shame, thereby lowering our vibrations.

When we have 4 or 5 excuses, we believe we have a legal, defensible case against ourselves and our potential. We then use our minds to take ourselves to spiritual court. Even with the best intentions and most innovative slights of hand, we’ll lose this battle every time. We are too smart for our own good.

So, there we sit, stuck in a cesspool of our excuses.

Here are a few reasons why your excuses are merely contrived fantasies that you’re using to defeat yourself and defend laziness:

  1. You have skin, bones, a brain, a heart, and passion. With these elements, you can accomplish nearly anything. What most often happens is that we get distracted and depressed, and we refuse to shift our behaviors toward a more enlightening feeling or position. When you add our addictions to social media to the mix, you have a stew that can only breed mediocrity and complaints.
  2. Your ideas and passions are not that complicated. It’s not like your goal is to fly to a distant nebula on a magical, nuclear, cocktail napkin. Your desires are most likely based in reality, which gives you a fighting chance at bringing them to life.
  3. You have already tried sitting around, complaining, and building a case against yourself.
  4. You already know which of the people in your life you no longer value. You’ve been keeping them around so you can feel validated. It’s within this codependent model that we grow mental and emotional infections that can prevent us from ever-evolving.
  5. You have made mistakes and you have created some unique, winning scenarios. Even with a predominance of failures, you still have enough data to thrust you forward with confidence.
  6. You’re sick of your attitude, so why not try something else?

Whether you believe in reincarnation or not, this life of yours is happening. It’s ON. It’s moving forward with or without you.

Why not admit you’re blocked, and choose to change your daily routine so you can advance your life to the next level?

Exercise and mediate at 6am. Pray 3X a day so that you continually raise your vibration. Pray for others because when we do this, The Universe prays for us. Use The Sedona Method to release emotions. Find ways to selflessly serve others. Do yoga 4X a week. Eat more healthfully. You got this.

Change your beliefs and you change your life. Go get ’em!

Check out The Shankara Oracle. It’s the most advanced divination system on Earth! Great for healing, growing, and prediction! 

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Are You In A Back–Burner Relationship? 6 Warning Signs Of Cushioning and Back-Burnering

Last updated: June 25, 2025

A woman looking concerned while her partner texts secretly

Am I Being Cushioned or Back-Burnered In My Relationship?

Are you in a back-burner relationship? The first days of a relationship can be intoxicating – you’re falling in love, getting to know your new partner, and floating on the proverbial cloud. Everything is amazing, and then little by little, you may start to notice that the relationship you were so happy in has changed. Your partner is distant and secretive, and you feel like you can’t connect with them. 

You try everything! You put on sexy underwear, you make pot roast, you do your wild dance, and damnit – it still feels like he’s on Relationship Vacation.

If this sounds familiar, you may be in a back-burner relationship  – feeling a bit like you’re babysitting rather than being fully loved and appreciated. 

If you want to be a relationship warrior – creating EXACTLY what thrills and heals you – read on to learn about cushioning and back-burnering. Within minutes, you’ll discover the warning signs – if this is happening in your relationship.

What Is Considered Cushioning in Dating & Relationships?

Never heard of cushioning? A cushioning relationship is when your partner is a bit sneaky – and has someone set up as a back-up plan in case your relationship fails. Essentially, they’re fostering a semi-romantic relationship with another person that they can transition into a full-out dating relationship if things go south with you. 

The cushion is their Self-Esteemer – a selfish energy vault to engage upon any conflict – so they NEVER feel fully hurt or devastated. This is a bypass for them, and a redirect of value and energy – all of which should be directed towards YOU – and nobody else.

Cushioning happens when a relationship is on the rocks and someone is afraid of being alone. They might be unable to commit or be fully honest with themselves – and you. This can happen when your partner craves more attention than one person can reasonably give them. And they might cushion as an addiction. This shows that your partner isn’t committed to you or your relationship – and is making backup plans for when things are challenging or on the verge of falling apart.

Truth be told, the moment they choose cushioning over you, things begin tumbling toward heartbreak.

What Is Back-Burnering?

While back-burnering can look similar to cushioning on the surface, it differs from cushioning in a few ways. When you’re on the back burner with someone, you aren’t their main priority in the relationship. And maybe they never even promised that to you – or maybe you prefer this! 

It might also be that they are not pursuing a relationship with someone else, but they’re not giving you their all, either. You might be doing the same thing – or you may have started or provoked this whole paradigm due to your own fears and limits. Only you know the truth here.

When you’re being back-burnered, you may find that your partner doesn’t seem to have time for you or interest in being with you. You may feel like a second choice, and you might find that you don’t get to spend very much time with them. You might also be in denial about what you’re actually giving the other person – are you giving them your all?

Sometimes, being in a back-burner relationship can feel even lonelier than just being single. This is because your heart is open – and finally feeling something – bringing to the surface parts of you that you’ve been neglecting for a long time.

Relationship Truth Bombs Before You Settle – or Stay

Before we dive into signs and red flags, here’s the real medicine: There is no “other.” There is no “they.” Every relationship dynamic – the flakiness, the ghosting, the breadcrumbing – is a mirror of your inner state, of your soul calling to itself through an external experience. That’s right – this is about YOU.

If this is happening in your relationship, this isn’t the time for blame – it’s time for self-ownership and liberation. If you’re attracting people who can’t choose you, ask: Where am I still not choosing myself? What within me is attracting this?

And how can I lead the way to a super awesome, super healthy, super wonderful relationship with this person – a projection of myself?

We don’t land in cushioning or back-burner relationships by accident. We match them. On some level, part of us is afraid to be fully seen, fully open, fully worthy of a real f*cking YES. We hide, we skip, we pretend – and we avoid ourselves. 

Why? We might be lazy and want it all handed out on a silver platter. Part of us might even prefer the chaos – because it lets us avoid our deepest work – and it gives us something that appears to be obviously not our fault – or not our responsibility. You’re better – you’re BIGGER than that.

This doesn’t excuse their behavior  – it just puts your healing back in your hands. And that’s where your freedom lives.

So before you analyze the people in your life to death, stop and ask:

    • Am I available for real intimacy?
    • Am I projecting old pain onto this person?
    • Am I still addicted to being almost-loved, because fully-loved feels terrifying?
    • Am I owning and healing my full self all the time? 

Healing begins when we stop outsourcing our power to someone else’s behavior  – when we stop allowing someone else to have full agency over our happiness – and when we start anchoring ourselves into our own sovereignty. 

The moment you fully own your frequency – the moment you stop playing small, stop settling, stop blaming – the pattern collapses. The Universe reroutes – and expands within you and within your sphere. Your soul IMMEDIATELY gets loud. And the game changes.

Now let’s look at the signs you might be back-burnered or cushioned – so you can call it what it is, clean it up, and rise the hell out of it. You came here to burn through bullshit and rise into sovereign, soul-lit connection. So let’s get to it!

Book Your Breakthrough Intuitive Reading Session Now

6 Signs That Indicate You’re Being Back-Burnered Or Cushioned

Does something feel off, but you can’t quite put your finger on it? Maybe your partner is distant, inconsistent, or just not as engaged as they used to be. Maybe you’re numb from childhood trauma or a prior relationship debacle and you can’t fully access your full self! 

Sometimes these things can shift when we own our issues and start working on them. Other times, it can certainly be the other person and how they view the relationship.

If you’re starting to wonder whether you’re a priority or just an option in this unfulfilling relationship, here are some red flags that you’re being cushioned or back-burnered.

Red Flags Pointing To Cushioning Or Back-Burnering

1) They’re Secretive About Phone Activity

One of the first things you may notice when you’re being cushioned or back-burnered is that your partner is suddenly glued to their phone. They don’t go anywhere without it, and they always seem to be texting, chatting, or scrolling social media. This may even start to interfere in your relationship, since you can’t seem to get their attention. This is an emotional sign of being in a back-burner relationship.

Worst of all, your partner may start refusing to let you see anything on their phone. Of course, everyone has a right to their privacy, but your partner shouldn’t be making active efforts to hide their phone activity from you. If they won’t let you see what they’re texting or looking at, it could mean they’re chatting up someone else.

Meanwhile, it is also possible your paranoia is stemming from your own lack of honesty – or inability to trust them born from your own traumas – that you’ve yet to own and heal. 

2) If They’re Hot And Cold

One of the biggest red flags in a relationship is your partner switching between being affectionate and being aloof. Everyone has bad days, and your partner may have times when they feel a little more distant or hard to read. But swinging wildly between hot and cold can show you that your partner isn’t sure if they want to be in your relationship.

Remember – you have to start with yourself. Did you initiate this pattern? Are you certain you’re owning your challenges and allowing your emotions to rise, express, and dissolve? 

When we fully own our traumas, we energetically inspire others to do the same. This can clear myriad troubling patterns in our relationships. When we’re at our best, the relationship’s frequency begins to rise. This can awaken our partners to look within and adjust themselves – thereby improving the relationship.

Check into these things, too: 

Does your partner refuse to talk to you for days on end and then call you and act like nothing is wrong? 

Do they act like they want you one night and then barely look your way for the next week? 

These sorts of extreme fluctuations could be a sign that they’re pursuing other options on the side and only doing what they have to in order to keep you going. And again, it might be that you’ve not yet fully owned your part in these challenges.

3) When Your Partner Isn’t Making Solid Plans With You

The surest way to tell what someone’s priorities are is to look at where they spend their time. In a healthy relationship, you and your partner should be spending time together on a regular basis. Even if you don’t see each other every day, you should be able to count on them to show up for plans because they value that time with you.

When your partner is cushioning you or putting you on the back burner, they may start refusing to make solid plans. The truth is that by the time those plans come around, they don’t know if they’ll have a better offer from someone else. If your partner acts like spending time with you is an option that they can’t commit to, it may be a sign that something is wrong.

4) Is Your Partner Standing You Up? Prime Example Of Back-Burnering Or Cushioning

Person alone at a dinner table, illustrating being stood up in a relationship

Even worse than refusing to make solid plans is a partner who straight-up stands you up. You may have plans for them to call, for you to have a date night, or for you to meet up. But at the last minute, they have to work, a family member needs something, a friend called, or they’re just too tired.

As with many of these warning signs, these things can happen every now and again in a relationship. It’s when a pattern starts developing that you should be worried. Getting stood up for a phone call once is one thing; missing three plans with you in a month or standing you up for an important event shows that they have somewhere else they’d rather be.


5) If Your Partner Is Not Responsive, They’re Back-Burnering You Or Cushioning

When you first got into this relationship, you and your partner probably talked for hours on end and texted every day. They answered your questions, reacted to your stories, and showed you that they cared. But now, you may have the sense that your partner isn’t listening or that they’ve just plain checked out.

Most of the time, your partner should engage with you, respond to your texts and calls, and make you feel heard. It takes less than thirty seconds to send a text message, and no one is so busy that they can’t manage an “I’m busy, but I’ll call you later” message. If your partner isn’t responding to you, it may show you that they’re busy talking to someone else.

6) Major Red Flag Of Both Cushioning & Back-Burnering Is A Sudden Slow Down In Your Sex Life

Of course, one of the biggest signs of trouble in a relationship is a significant change in your sex life. It’s normal for your sex life to slow down a little as you move out of the honeymoon phase of your relationship. In fact, some studies show that most Americans in happy relationships have sex about once a week.

But while a slight slowdown is normal, a full stop is something to be concerned about. If your partner used to be excited about getting down with you and now they seem indifferent, it’s a sure sign that there’s some sort of problem. They might be experiencing a physical problem that needs to be addressed, they might be working through a personal crisis, or they might be turning their attention elsewhere.

The Impact of Back-Burner Relationships on Self-Esteem 

Image showing woman feeling sad and lonely

Back-burner relationships may seem subtle on the surface, but their emotional toll can be profound and often insidious. When someone keeps you simmering on low heat – not fully committing, yet not letting go – it creates a chronic state of emotional ambiguity that eats away at your self-esteem. You begin to internalize their lack of effort as a reflection of your own worth. The silence between texts, the canceled plans, the inconsistent affection – all begin to whisper a lie to your heart: “You’re not enough.”

Over time, this leads to a corrosive kind of self-doubt. You start wondering what you’re doing wrong, even when deep down, your intuitive guidance tells you that it’s not about your value – it’s about their lack of clarity and integrity. 

The back-burner dynamic makes you feel disposable, like a placeholder in someone else’s timeline – and that can bleed into your sense of identity, clouding your confidence, and distorting your understanding of love and connection. In essence, a back-burner relationship isn’t just a poor romantic setup – it’s a spiritual siphon that depletes your inner light, unless you recognize it, reclaim your power, and re-center yourself in truth.

How to Confront a Partner About Cushioning Behavior

If you suspect you’re being cushioned – meaning your partner’s got a soft, sneaky backup to soothe their ego – it’s time to speak up from clarity, not chaos. Start by grounding yourself. No need to lash out or beg. Just speak what’s real: “I feel like there’s a part of you that’s not fully here, and it hurts.” Be specific but loving. 

Give them a chance to tell the truth – and don’t override your intuition just to keep the peace. If they deflect, gaslight, or act like you’re imagining things – believe their energy more than their words. You’re not here to babysit someone’s ego while they flirt with exit plans. You’re here to be cherished. 

Speak your truth, then watch what they do. That tells you everything.

Cushioning vs. Micro-Cheating – What’s the Difference?

Cushioning is when someone keeps a “just-in-case” person close – like an emotional airbag in case things crash with you. It’s a soft betrayal wrapped in charm. Micro-cheating is sneakier – tiny acts of disloyalty that feel innocent but erode trust: flirty DMs, secret follows, lingering messages that cross energetic lines.

Cushioning is about plans – prepping for emotional escape. Micro-cheating is about habits – small leaks in integrity that drain intimacy. Both hurt. Both tell you your partner’s not fully in. And both are calls to come back to your worth – and decide what kind of relationship you truly want to live in.

Get Out of Back-Burner Relationships

Back-burner relationships can be lonely, miserable, and deeply painful. You deserve to be with a partner who is excited about being with you, who is committed to continuing to grow your relationship, and who makes you a priority in their life. If they start checking out and you have a bad feeling, trust that intuitive guidance and consider moving on to a better relationship.

If you’re feeling sidelined, dismissed, or like a low-priority option – you’re not in a relationship, you’re in emotional limbo. Cushioning and back-burner dynamics are quiet betrayals that chip away at your spirit. You deserve a partner who’s all in – present, turned on by your light, and building something real with you.

If your gut says something’s off, trust it. Your intuition is your higher self whispering: “This isn’t love – this is survival.” Walk away with grace, not drama. Choose you. Choose peace. Choose a connection where you don’t have to question your worth every damn day.

Woman standing tall in front of a sunrise experiencing joy
Steps to End a Back-Burner Relationship Respectfully

Ending a back-burner situation doesn’t mean you have to blow it all up in fire and fury. You can walk out with dignity – clear, centered, and done. First, name it for what it is: “This connection doesn’t feel mutual anymore. I’m not available to be an afterthought.” Keep it simple. No need to unpack their dysfunction or fix their wounding. That’s not your job. 

Let your intuitive guidance lead – not your fear of hurting them or being alone. Set the boundary, make the clean break, and release with compassion. You’re allowed to leave quietly and still honor your power. This is your soul saying: Thank you, but I choose more.

If you’d like to learn more about cushioning and back-burner relationships, check out the rest of my site at PaulWagner.com – and it might be time for a spiritual guide in your life.

Ready to Choose More In Your Relationship?

You don’t have to settle for half-hearted love, breadcrumb affection, or spiritual laziness masked as “almost.” If you’re in a back-burner or cushioning relationship, it’s not your fault – but it is your moment to choose something better. You were born to experience wild, soul-deep connection – not sit around hoping someone wakes up and sees your light. If you’re ready to reclaim your worth and rise into a relationship that feeds your spirit, I’ve got you.

Visit PaulWagner.com to explore intuitive coaching, oracle decks, healing sessions, and real spiritual support.

Your heart deserves devotion – not delay. Let’s begin.

REMEMBER!

You are a beautiful Living Being filled with light and love, born from stardust. You are unlimited potential in every direction. With a focus on discipline, virtue, and your own goodness, you can become as expanded and liberated as you desire.

Schedule An Intuitive Session Now

 

Frequently Asked Questions On Cushioning & Back Burner Relationships

To help you understand at a glance, here’s soul-level clarity you’ve been craving:

  1. What is a back-burner relationship?
    It’s when you’re not the main dish – you’re the emotional snack your partner keeps on low heat. They’re not showing up fully, not choosing you boldly, and you’re stuck in limbo – half-seen, half-loved, fully exhausted.

  1. What does cushioning mean in dating?
    Cushioning is your partner emotionally lining up their next hookup while still sharing your bed. It’s the “just-in-case” flirt they text when things feel hard with you. They’re not loyal – they’re prepping for their soft landing while you hold the weight.

  1. What are the signs of being cushioned or back-burnered?
    They’re glued to their phone, ghost your plans, act hot one day and ice-cold the next. You feel like a maybe instead of a fuck yes. Your sex life is stale, and your intuition is screaming, “Something’s wrong!” And guess what? It is.

  1. Why do people back-burner and cushion?
    Because they’re terrified of being alone, addicted to attention, or too emotionally limp to choose real intimacy. Instead of owning their fears, they scatter their energy – using you as an anchor while chasing spark elsewhere.

  1. What should I do if this is happening to me?
    Stop making excuses for them. Stop dimming your light to stay in their maybe. Your soul already knows the truth. Speak it. Leave with power. You’re not here to be a backup plan – you’re here to be fucking adored.

  1. How can I become a spiritual warrior and raise my frequency – to attract a profound partner?

Stop chasing love. Start becoming it. A spiritual warrior doesn’t wait for someone to choose them – they choose themselves in every breath. That means doing the inner work: clearing trauma, ending victim loops, speaking truth without apology, and embodying the love you long for. 

You raise your frequency by living in integrity, feeling your feelings, and refusing to settle for surface-level anything.

The more you become the kind of energy you want to share your life with, the more magnetic you become to partners who are equally tuned in, turned on, and unafraid of your light. So burn through your stories. Anchor in your power. And remember: the most profound relationships begin the moment you stop needing one to feel whole. 

Get in touch and let’s get you on the road to a beautiful, profound, and empowered life.

REMEMBER!

You are a beautiful Living Being filled with light and love, born from stardust. You are unlimited potential in every direction. With a focus on discipline, virtue, and your own goodness, you can become as expanded and liberated as you desire.

 

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