Baked Apples with Honey

Here is an amazing recipe from Alan and Denise Thornhill taken from the September issue of The Whole Person Magazine. Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 6 firm medium to large apples (Macintosh, Red Delicious, or Pippins)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 Tablespoon milk or cream 
• 1/2 cup raw, unfiltered honey 
• 1/2 cup chopped rosadted walnuts, unsalted
• 1/2 cup chopped raisins
• 1 Teaspoon ground cinnamon
• boiling water

Lets go!

1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. Core the apples, leaving the skins intact.
3. Mix or beat ricotta with milk or cream and 1/4 of the honey.
4. Add in Raisins and 1/4 of the walnuts.
5. Stuff center of apples and place in a shallow backing pan (glassware is good!) 
6. Add 1/2 inch of boiling water to the pan.
7. Bake in the center of the oven for 20 minutes, then drizzle with the remaining honey, and the rest of the walnuts.
8. Bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until apples have reached the desired softness and before walnuts are burnt.

Bone appetit!

Schedule of Performers for Topanga Earth Day!

Here is the music line up for the Topanga Earth Day festival! Please come by my "Sacred Sound Shrine" for some TLC with massage, sound bowls, and over all good vibration!
Saturday April 17th 2010 Master Ceremonies Edwin Lemus, Truth I   10am to11:30am Yoga with Govindas & Radha www.bhaktiyogashala.com 11:30am to 12:45pm Opening Ceremony with Edwin Lemus, Prayer for Peace Flags, Gaia Mama, John Densmore, Hani Naser, Cari Ann Shim Sham Carribean Skirt Dancers, African Drummers & Dancers www.worldpeace.org www.gaiamama.com www.cariannshimsham.com 12:45pm to 1:30pm The Chiefs www.myspace.com/thefolksmusic 1:40pm to 2:10pm Dana Wood & Dina www.myspace.com/danawood13 2:20pm to 2:50 Griffith Frank www.myspace.com/griffithfrank 3pm to 3:35pm Arlan & Kara www.karagrainger.com 3:50pm to 5:20pm Moonalice www.moonalice.com 5:35pm to 6:05pm HunnyBunch www.hunnybunch.org 6:05 to 6:15 Victor Bisetti & Danny Frankel www.moderndrummer.com/updatefull/200001258 6:30pm to 8pm Buffy Sainte-Marie www.creative-native.com 8:15pm to 9:30pm Cubensis www.cubensis.com Sunday April 18th 2010 10am to11:45am Yoga with Govindas & Radha www.bhaktiyogashala.com 12pm to 12:45pm   Custom www.myspace.com/oyelive 1pm to 1:30pm   I,Star www.i-starcreations.com 1:40pm to 2:10pm   Rowan Storm www.rowanstorm.com 2:20pm to 3:20pm   Donna Delory www.donnadelory.com 3:35pm to 4:20pm   Luis Conte www.luisconte.com 4:20pm to 4:50pm   Melanie Kareem Belly Dancers www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIRFi8iebzw 5pm to 6:30pm   Leon Mobley & Da Lion www.leonmobley.com 6:30pm   Drumming & Closing Ceremony with Everybody!

Topanga Earth Days!

I am so excited for the 11th Annual Topanga Earth Day Festival this weekend!

"The 11th annual Topanga Earth Day festival, a 90 percent waste-free non-profit event, will unify people from around the world in celebration and promotion of ecological awareness, cultural respect, and music on Saturday, April 17, from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., through Sunday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Set in Topanga Canyon, Los Angeles’ original conscious-living community, the festival will give attendees the unique opportunity to learn about a variety of sustainable and holistic-living solutions through guest speakers and workshops, a healing village and ecological vendors who are “living by example”."

I feel very blessed to have been asked to facilitate a
Sound Bath/Sound Healing experience on
Saturday, April 17th at 12:45pm.
You can view the invite on Facebook : Sacred Sound

Here are the details:

Experience the PEACE of sound and sound healing.

Experience your Body, Mind, and Spirit as WHOLE.

Experience yourself as a BALANCED and HEALTHY being.

Jaqueline Marie provides a beautiful soundscape to journey into Self.
This one hour sound bath will attune the Chakras (energy centers), free stagnant energy in the meridians, and encourage the listener to tap into Alpha brain wave patterns, opening the gateways to creativity and genius.

The suggested Donation is $20
ALL are welcome!

Later in the afternoon I will also be offering a
Couples Yoga Class at 2:45pm
with the very talented Hatha Yoga teacher, Geoffrey Earendil.
You can view the invitation on facebook: Couples Tantra Yoga

Here are the details:

Join Jaqueline Marie and Geoffrey Earendil for a heart-centered, fun, and playful yoga experience.

This Partner Tantra Yoga class is appropriate for ALL levels, from novice to skilled yogi.

Partner Yoga is two or more people joining together to deepen the impact and experience of a yoga practice.

The word Tantra essentially means to weave, and the core of its philosophy is using everything that we relate to as the part of the path.

Partner Yoga holds the philosophy of using relationship as a tool for awakening to our true nature.

Come and play with a friend, a lover, a family member, your neighbor, whomever!

Suggested Donation: $20
ALL are welcome!

I look forward to seeing you this weekend!

Crazymaking

Theatre for the Claremont Colleges, Pomona College Department of Theatre and Dance presents the world premiere of: Crazymaking!

Crazymaking follows the character Casana Lee, from her dreams of being a rock star in 1980s Los Angeles to her destiny as a teacher and healer in her native Hawai’i. The play begins with Casana trying to gain celebrity, but failing at using her own voice. When an unexpected series of encounters return her to her family roots in Hawai’i, Casana uncovers how the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893 continues to impact her life. As she slowly learns to trust her ‘aumakua, they lead her to back and forth between the dream world and her waking life in order to heal her past and find her true voice.

Playwright C. Mamo Kim, Ph.D. holds a doctorate in Political Science from the University of Hawai’i at M`anoa (UHM). She was the first publicly identified Native Hawaiian student in the history of UHM who became president of both the Associated Students and the Graduate Student Organization of UHM and was instrumental in many of the actions that furthered decolonization of the university including the implementation of a new vision and strategic plan (2002-2010) and the founding of Hawaiinuiakea School of Hawaiian Knowledge, one of the largest schools of indigenous knowledge in the nation.

Crazymaking chronicles the main character’s journey to: come to terms with the abuse in her life that stems from the violence of colonization; to find herself, her connection to spirit, and her purpose in life. The figure of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire, figures prominently in the story, because she is an ancestor of Kim’s and, as Kim points out, “Pele is a huge Hawaiian female archetype. . .everyone should have a bit of Pele in them but especially for women, that aspect has been conditioned out of us. Pele is your spark of life. That spark is all you have. Everybody has a right to that spark. You have a right to be in our integrity and your power. You have to honor the Pele in you.”

Joyce Lu, Ph.D. directs this production of Crazymaking in collaboration with Kumu Hula Keoni Chang of Chino Hills’ Halau Na Pua Lehua I Ka Ua Noe.

Crazymaking features three young dancers from this Halau who play the parts of Pele, Hi’iaka, and Kamapua’a.

Live sound created by sound healer, and vibrational coach Jaqueline Marie.

Topanga Music - Fernwood

Tucked away in the picturesque mountains towering above the Pacific ocean Topanga Canyon attracts artists of all kinds, each adding their own unique vibration. I've been delighted to discover Fernwood, the eclectic and inspirational music creation of Todd Montgomery and Gayle Ellett.

The duo have released two albums,"Almeria" and "Sangita" which have gained recognition worldwide. Their acoustic, cinematic compositions take the listener on an epic journey colored by the traditional instrumental sounds of Morocco, India, Greece, Turkey, China, and Italy, to name a few.

Theirs is the kind of music one can sail away on. It swirls and flows in unexpected and delightful harmonies. While painting, free writing, or journaling it provides the perfect sound scape to entice and encourage creativity.

You can preview and purchase their music on CD Baby here: Fernwood

Radio:
Fernwood's music can be heard locally on KCRW-FM
throughout the country on National Public Radio and ECHOES Radio,
internationally on RADIO CENTRAAL

Reviews:

"This month's Spotlight is a beautiful acoustic based track featuring a combination of instruments that we rarely hear. While the writing, arranging and performances are of the highest order, it is the blend of the various instruments in the mix that really makes "Open Seas" something special to our ears. Gayle and Todd have skillfully managed to combine numerous stringed instruments, many with competing frequency ranges, into an open, airy mix that leaves space for each individual sound source, while maintaining a full cohesive feel, free of artifact and digital "nasties." Relax and enjoy! Well done! Highly Recomended"
~ RECORDING Magazine

"Using only instruments made of wood, Todd Montgomery and Djam Karet's Gayle Ellett blend Old-World and contemporary musical styles on their new all-acoustic project Fernwood. This colorful sonic palette results in Almeria, a remarkably cohesive and compelling debut record. Peaceful but never dull... the duo's sophisticated arrangements and deft touch on a variety of instruments bring songs with vivid titles like "Open Seas" and "Hungarian Holiday" to life."
"Progressive" in the purest sense of the term."
~SEA OF TRANQUILITY

Sound And Presence

Recently I facilitated a workshop at the Claremont Colleges. The students were preparing for an art performance piece that will include toning and chant as part of the production. I was invited to demonstrate the power and depth of these ancient modalities, and to teach the young men and women how to FEEL their emotions and BE in their bodies both on stage and in everyday life.

The workshop consisted of two parts. The first portion was an experiential sound bath created with crystal bowls and voice. To hear a sample of the music created click here: Sound

The second half included instruction on correct vocal placement, proper breathing, and body awareness. For many of these young adults it was their first time chanting and it was really difficult to create sound (be heard) in a group. It was beautiful to watch them support and encourage each other.

Here are some photos:



Working with the youth is always an amazing experience. I'm continuously blown away by the wisdom reflected back to me in their open approach and unbiased attitude to experience something new. There is no comparison to witnessing a person tap into their power and experience their greatness.

I hope we can all learn to be more like children.



To inquire about workshops, performances, or one on one sessions you may email me at Sacred.Sound@Live.com

To See As God Sees

Meister Echkart is one of history's great mystics. He was a Catholic monk and scholar who lived from 1260 to 1328.
In his own words,

To SEE AS God Sees

It is your destiny to see as God sees,
to know as God knows,
to feel as God
feels.

How is it possible? How?
Because divine love cannot defy its very self.

Divine love will be eternally true o its owns being,
and its being is giving all it can,
at the perfect
moment.

And the greatest gift
God can give is Her own experience.

Every objedt, every creature, every man, woman and child
has a soul and it is the destiny of all,

to see as God sees, to know as God knows,
to feel as God feels, to Be
as God
Is.

Brilliant Video!

Valentines Yoga!

I would like to invite you to join my partner and I for an amazing Yoga for Couples workshop on Valentines day.
If you've never experienced yoga before this is a great introduction, and if you're a seasoned yogi, this is a fantastic way to share your practice with someone special.
Come move, laugh and love with your honey!

YOGA FOR VALENTINES DAY!

Asana for Couples and the Yoga of Intimacy
with Jaqueline Marie & Geoffrey Earendil

This Heart Centered workshop is appropriate for ALL levels. You and your partner will be guided through a sequence of sweet stretches and strengthening poses with gentle touch and mutual encouragement.

Incorporating guided imagery, simple meditations and focused intention we will introduce you to practical techniques to improve communication, build trust, deepen sensitivity and strengthen your heart connection to begin sharing the journey of Spiritual Self-Discovery.

No prior yoga experience is necessary. Dress comfortably. Please refrain from wearing jewelery and perfume. As with all physical activity, we encourage you to not eat an hour before participation.

Date: February 14, 2010
Time: 3pm-5pm
Location: Aanand Saagar Yoga
1318 2nd St #21 Santa Monica

Cost: By Donation, $25 per couple suggested.

RSVP: by Friday February 12th, 2010
Call: (760) 220-4877 or (805) 453-5878


http://www.tribe.net

Raja Yoga

Image via Wikipedia

I was asked again today if I was a yoga teacher. Just like every time before my "rational" mind freaked out and my nerves got the best of me. Having never taken the traditional yoga teacher training the voice in my head yells, "You're not qualified!".

I forget that Yoga is more then just an asana, or physical practice. I forget that I've been a dedicated student to the path for over 4 years and have studied the art of stillness with reputable spiritual teachers from multiple cultures. I forget I have helped countless numbers of people start their own meditation practice and transform their lives.

Why do I place such value on a piece of paper?

It frustrates me that I fall victim to social pressure to achieve some kind of standardized goal to validate myself. It saddens me that I doubt myself because I have not taken the path laid out in the rule book.

I was expressing my dismay at not knowing how to answer the question,"Are you a yoga teacher?" when my partner, an amazing yogi who has been teaching Hatha Yoga for over 10 years, stopped me mid sentence and proclaimed, "Are you kidding me? You teach Raja Yoga!"

Allow me to set the record straight: In all my years of travel and study I have NEVER heard of Raja Yoga! Not one soul, nor one book had ever mentioned ANYTHING about Raja Yoga. Now perhaps I've just been reading the wrong books (sorry Eckhart Tolle, Barbara Martin, Hafiz, Rumi, and Hazrat Inayat Khan), but I was sincerely shocked to learn I was practicing a "legitimate" Yoga and had no idea.

Raja Yoga, which translates into "Royal Union" or "Royal Yoga", is the Yoga of the mind. It is the art of meditation. Raja Yoga meditation is generally based on directing one's life force to bring the mind and the emotions so into balance that the attention may be easily focused on the object of meditation - the union of Divinity and Self. In the words of Swami Satchidananda,

"Every thought, feeling, perception, or memory you may have causes a modification, or ripple, in the mind. It distorts and colors the mental mirror. If you can restrain the mind from forming into modifications, there will be no distortion, and you will experience your true Self."

Raja Yoga is the INNER work. While other yoga practices tonify and purify the body, Raja Yoga tonifies and purifies the mind. In order to truly raise ones vibration BOTH an inner and an outer practice are necessary.

You would think with all the dedicated Yogis in LA, Raja Yoga would be right up there with Hatha, Ashtanga, Bikram, and Power.

Why isn't it? Good question...

It is my absolute passion and pleasure to practice, and share the practice of Raja Yoga.
Now when someone asks me, "Are you a Yoga teacher?", I'm going to answer whole heartily, "Why, Yes I am!"


*If you would like to learn more about Raja Yoga and meditation, you may contact me at JaquelineMarie.com

Little Miracles

The sun was setting over Topanga Canyon as I took this shot. The entire mountainside was ablaze with a purple, pink glow; twilight descended hushed and unhurried. In a moment of inspiration I zoomed into the house and grabbed my camera. When I returned to the terrace I realized that no matter how I positioned myself something was blocking my view. Wanting to get the "perfect" picture I proceeded to run, crawl, climb, squat, bend, and tiptoe in every which direction in the hopes of finding a clearing. Very unlike the graceful twilight, I bumbled and mumbled (ok lets be honest, I cursed) under my breath, and after what felt like forever nearly gave up in total disgusted failure.

And then I saw the star.

The glow of the setting sun on the colored glass sent a million little sparkles of light dancing. Once aware of the sparkles, I began to see them everywhere - on the fence, in the windows, on the roof, on the floor, in the hot tub- and inside each sparkle was a perfect miniature reflection of the sunset itself. Surrounded by the endless mirroring of the little miracle I realized that what I had approached as a hindrance, an obstacle to overcome, was actually a gift. What was "in my way" was essentially providing me with a different perspective, one which reflected the interconnectedness of life and showed me the "worlds within the world".

In that moment the Sun and the Star met, and I, the awe struck observer, was changed.

I took this picture in Topanga Canyon.
I feel it captures a simple truth beautifully -

"We are limited, not by our abilities, but by our vision."


If you changed your point of view, how would you see the world differently?

Life Is Music

There are moments when I loose myself completely in music. All thought vanishes and I am nothing but FEELING. My mind quiets. My eyes close. My breath deepens and, together with my pounding heart, creates an intoxicating rhythm.

These are the moments I know I am alive.

Music moves me.

Over the weekend I attended a party in the Malibu hills. The location was secrete, hidden deep in the winding mountain side. In the ancient canyon we gathered in the name of love, awakening, community, growth, music.

I was the guest of my good friend U-Recken. He is a brilliant Israeli based DJ who's music I was introduced to while living in Europe. Though we've spoken for over two years, we had never met.

Music bonded us.

The party was for Denny, a woman who discovered Yaniv's music while in Peru. As she danced on the slopes of Machu Picchu to his "Blue Planetary Hand", an old Peruvian woman climbed up the mountain and gifted her with a hand woven garment depicting a woman achieving enlightenment.
Denny flew home, contacted Yaniv, introduced herself and told him her story.
"Blue Planetary Hand" is Yaniv's Mayan astrology sign. There was no coincidence.

Music spoke to them.

Yaniv told Denny about me and arranged for us to meet.
After meeting Denny it became clear to both she and I that we've known each other before.
Denny brought Yaniv to California to perform at her birthday party.
And then Denny, Yaniv, and I were together.

Music connected us.

There is a flow to life. There in an interconnection so subtle and sweet. There is a rhythm. There is a pulse. And when we are open, there is harmony.

Music IS the universal language.
How will you communicate?

Lifebook for 2010

Health:


1. Drink plenty of water

2. Eat breakfast like a Queen, lunch like a princess and dinner like a servant

3. Eat more foods that grow from the earth.

4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy

5. Make time for giving thanks - gratitude generates grace!

6. Develop (and stick to!) a fitness plan - your confidence will soar!

7. Make a commitment to enrich your life by reading at least 3 books

8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day

9. Give yourself at least 7 hours of sleep

10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk every day ---- and while you walk, smile



Personality:


11. Choose to embody your inner Goddess - you are divine!

12. Invest your energy in the positive present moment

13. One step at a time. Don't overdo ; pace yourself and have patience

14. Don't take yourself so seriously!

15. Gossip is a waste of energy - Generate good karma with your words!

16. Dream more while you are awake

17. Indulge your inner child - Play more!

18. Bless your past - the lessons you've learned are gifts to share with others

19. Forgive. Forgive. Forgive.

20. You are exactly where you need to be - Don't compare your life to others'

21. Your happiness is in your hands - you can CHOOSE to be happy

22. Problems are OPPORTUNITIES to create a new reality

23. Smile and laugh more

24. Diversity makes life beautiful - EMBRACE WHO YOU ARE!


Community:


25. Call your family often

26. Give the gift of yourself - your time, your acknowledgment, your help

27. Forgive everyone for everything

28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6

29. Share a smile with strangers daily

30. Volunteer

31. Connect from the heart; create a lovingly community - it starts with you!


Life:


32. Believe in miracles, for YOU are one

33. Purify your life of everything that does not serve your highest purpose

34. Experience life! Travel, try new things, create!

35. Make no assumptions - approach everything with an open heart and clear mind

36. Dare to be original

37. If you've given your best, you have everything to be proud of

38. Celebrate each day - life is a gift!

39. Follow your heart. Let your intuition be your guide


Last but not the least :


40. Honor yourself! Love yourself!