The Lives of an Eagle

The Lives of an Eagle.

via The Lives of an Eagle.

Here are some notes from my latest Animal Communication work at the zoo. I had a really special experience talking with one of the bald eagles. I love my job.

Inner and Outer Silence

I’ve been a bit out of the habit of writing lately, and as I sit here, I’m finding it difficult to focus my thoughts. My brain has been spinning for days–I’m sure others can relate to the feeling. Things have been quite the whirlwind these last few weeks and I can think of at least eight different things I’d like to write about, but the empty page looks a bit daunting. Let’s start with a simple story (which is currently quite applicable).

I went snowshoeing for the first time a couple weeks ago, and went back a week later because I enjoyed it so much! The second trip was particularly satisfying (for a variety of reasons), but one thing that stands out from both adventures was the complete silence.

I’d never experienced silence like this before. Even if you think it’s silent, there’s usually birdsong, or wind, or traffic, or any number of little noises (some of which are pleasant, but noises nonetheless). As I stood there on the mountain, I found myself holding my breath so as not to disturb the air. My friend and I stayed motionless for about 10 minutes (until our feet started freezing) and then resumed our noisy trek, but I’ve been thinking a lot lately about what it felt like to be surrounded by a total lack of sound, and drawn parallels between that sensation and my meditative state when working.

Silence is often described as oppressive, heavy, awkward, or any number of less-than-pleasant sensations. But I loved it. Eliminating the sound made the vibration of the mountain so much more intense–I could feel every flake of snow and every rock and tree humming with energy around me. I would have loved to have spent hours simply sitting, awash in the energy, but our freezing feet and the setting sun dictated that my friend and I get going.

…and as I sit here with my brain spinning, every little sound is quickly turning into the most annoying thing in the world. It’s amazing how my own state is reflected in my perception of my environment. My current inner disquiet makes every noise an intrusion, but I know that when I’m “tuned in” to a meditative state, every sound falls away. That’s one of the things I love so much about my work–the chance to “turn the sound off,” so to speak, and open up to a different kind of perception.

I’m not really sure what else to say about it. I’m heading to the zoo this afternoon to chat with the animals–perhaps that will help me “zen out”.

Mt. Hood

Quartz Plus: Crystal Party and Workshop!

As a precursor to the Portland Gem Faire…

You are invited to Quartz Plus! Please join us for a potluck and crystal party/workshop. We’ll talk about some crystals in general, including choosing and using crystals, and focus especially on quartz and its different forms. We’ll also talk about pendulums! Everyone is welcome, even if you already have extensive experience working with crystals! Please feel free to bring some of your own crystals if you like, as well as something tasty to share.

Please RSVP so we know you’re coming! For more information, check out my Events Calendar. Hope to see you there!

Holiday Open House!

This weekend the Catwalk Hair Studio is holding their annual Holiday Open House! Not only will you be able to enjoy hors d’oeuvres, hair treatments, jewelery and accessories displays, but Catwalk will donate a portion of the proceeds to NW Animal Companions! They are also collecting donations of collars, toys, dog and cat food, clean bedding and towels.

• Where: The Catwalk Hair Studio. 8310 SW Nimbus Ave, Beaverton, OR 97008
• When: Friday Nov. 5th, 4-8pm and Saturday Nov. 6th, 10am-4pm.
• For more information, contact Darcy Crane (503-888-8775). Make an appointment for a $10 brow wax, haircut or relaxing scalp massage!

Are you considering adopting an animal? Check out all the wonderful cats and dogs at NW Animal Companions! Joy of Energy will be donating certificates for free animal communications to the shelter for people who want to learn a little more about an animal before adopting them. Welcoming an animal into your life is an important decision, so make sure you find one with whom you can share a loving forever home!

Happy Halloween! But look out for your animals…

Halloween is definitely a fun holiday with roots to different cultural traditions, but to our pets it’s not all fun and games. Many dogs react with alarm and concern to the constant stream of trick-or-treaters daring to ring their doorbell all night, and animals left outside might be the target of unfortunate, and sometimes cruel, pranks. Here are some things you can do to relieve some stress for your animals this Halloween:

-Be sure to explain to your dog (or cat, etc) that many people will be coming to the door, but that they are welcome visitors. Some dogs may be more comfortable away from the front door where they won’t see any strangers, but dogs with a “protector” instinct often feel more distressed if they can’t keep track of the goings-on. It’s a good idea to keep a leash by the door so you have it handy if need be. Unfortunately, Halloween is a day when many pets can slip out the door unnoticed. If your animals are in danger of slipping outside, be sure to close them off in another part of the house.

-Keep your cat inside! As one of the traditional symbols of Halloween, cats are especially vulnerable to pranks and mischief. At “best” these are relatively harmless incidents, but at worst they can be torturous, or even fatal. While certain blood rituals and sacrifices are becoming less common, they do still occur. Black cats are at a particularly high risk, and many animal shelters do not allow the adoption of black cats during the month of October.

-Keep an eye on the candy. While dogs can consume small amounts of chocolate without serious side effects, it’s never a good idea, and eating a large quantity of chocolate can be fatal. Be sure to keep the candy out of reach! When out walking your dog, be aware of candy that may have fallen on the ground. Many dogs will eat candy regardless of whether or not it still has the wrapper, which can cause choking, indigestion or intestinal blockages.

That being said, enjoy your holiday! For more information about understanding your animal and their sensitivity to everyday events, visit joyofenergy.com or contact me directly.

Happy Halloween!

Welcome to Energy Talk…

…your source for day-to-day dealings at Joy of Energy! Find out what Michelle has been up to recently, and be sure to check back for:

• Information about Joy of Energy classes and events
• Special promotions
• Recommended events and fun activities
• Animal Stories
• Polls and contests
• And more!

For more information, please feel free to check out my website (joyofenergy.com) and newsletter archive.

Take care!