Befriending Confusion
May 4, 2010 by Master-User
Filed under Inspiration
By Jeff Brown
Moving forward often demands that we live lost, knowingly surrendering our attachment to who we think we are, voluntarily stumbling around in the dark with little to guide us. Growing is all about leaps into the seeming unknown.
If there was one skill that I could not have done without on my spiritual journey, it was my learned capacity to befriend my confusion. As old ways of being died off, new ways of being invariably came to life. Before the transition was complete, there was a time, often a long time, when all of these parts were pressing up against me at the same time. In “Soulshaping,” I refer to this in-between phase as a “spiritual emergingcy” — a state of confusion and inner tumult that arises when a new pathway is forcing its way into consciousness, prior to its full emergence and integration. The bridge from one side to the other is confusion. You have to learn how to hold the space for all of your parts and befriend your confusion, until clarity emerges on its own terms.
Unfortunately, befriending our confusion is difficult to hold to in a linear world. Those that walk the path of uncertainty are frequently characterized as flakes, drifters, and, ironically, lost souls. Nowhere in society are we taught to distinguish aimless from growth-full confusion, madness from truth aches, nervous breakdowns from nervous breakthroughs, habitual crisis from spiritual emergingcies. Confusion is sadly stigmatized as the mark of the “loser” without regard for the fact that one cannot come to know anything without first surrendering to the not knowing.
Our state of confusion often arises in the context of careers and relationships: Why do I hate my job? What are my callings? How do I really feel about this relationship? We develop a truth ache- a sense of internal dissonance about our path, a crying out for another direction.
Sadly, when we begin questioning our choices, resistant voices often float to the surface — voices of habit and fear, internalized judgments, well-entrenched defenses. Although progress has been made on many levels, most of us are still making our primary choices as to path through a survivalist lens, with a vigilant eye to what is most practical, safe and materially satisfying.
When we step out of this framework, when we make a move toward a more soulful idea of success, we open the door to confusion, at least at first. The voices of the world arise within us in an effort to sweep away the whispers of a deeper truth. The desire to quit our unfulfilling job and find our callings is met with neurotic images of poverty. The longing to find a genuine soul-mate is overwhelmed with images of eternal aloneness. We are then confronted with a choice — turn back to familiar harbors, or let the inner battle wage on. Play it safe, or see it through…
If we don’t see it through, we risk all manner of difficulty. What ultimately holds us back is our resistance to bringing our truth ache into consciousness. Although sometimes painful, although it may well force us to turn our habitual patterns upside down, the truth-ache contains the seeds of our transformation. When we repress it, truth decay sets in, and the only thing that can save us is a truth canal. Sometimes we wait too long, and we lose our truth altogether.
Seeing it through is no easy feat. You will need support. You will need to work hard to identify the voices that are attempting to obstruct your transition. They will come in many difficult and credible forms, often disguised as your friends. You will have to patiently expand your capacity to sit in the “not knowing” in ways that nobody ever taught you. And you may even have to hold to a state that feels a little mad now and then, as different aspects of your inner world come into conflict.
But if you can see it all the way through, you will be rewarded. You will know a measure of soul-satisfaction that you will never know on a false path. You will see through different eyes and feel at peace in your soul-skin. You will not have to ask the universe for what you need because the door to humanifestation will open wide as the universe rewards you for your courage. You will know a remarkably enriched reality.
A former criminal lawyer and psychotherapist, Jeff Brown is the author of “Soulshaping: A Journey of Self-Creation,” recently published by North Atlantic Books. Endorsed by authors Elizabeth Lesser and Ram Dass , “Soulshaping” is Brown’s autobiography — an inner travelogue of his journey from archetypal male warrior to a more surrendered path. You can connect with his work at www.soulshaping.com
The Art of Pole & Chair Dancing (Apr 8)
April 5, 2010 by Master-User
Filed under Past PFW Events
It’s time to spice up your fitness routine! 
There’s no better way to get fit than to find fun fabulous ways to incorporate naturally feminine movement into your weekly routine. We are delighted to be heading to Aradia Fitness for a fun & spicy evening to learn the art of pole & chair dancing!
We will start our evening off with a sensual warm up designed to get the hips swinging and body temperature rising. Heat things up further with a lesson into the art of sensual movement. We then tie our movements together into an earth-shattering chair dance routine that will leave everyone feeling exhilarated and breathless. Then we will TAKE IT TO THE POLES where we learn how to dance, spin and twirl on the pole, finishing off an unforgettable pole dancing routine!
Not quite sure you’re ready for this? Please read on…
What can I expect to do at the class?
We will start with a gentle warm up, followed by a lesson in sensual movement, chair dancing and pole dancing.
I’m a bit shy, can I still participate?
Absolutely! Our classes are designed for beginners. Everyone feels shy at first but we’ll make you feel comfortable in no time. Our classes are not about getting it right. So long as you are willing to have a laugh and try something new, you will definitely enjoy yourself.
Who are your instructors?
All of our instructors are regular women like you with regular day jobs that have been trained by the Aradia Fitness Franchise to offer the best quality party instruction.
What should I wear?
Most groups just wear what they are going out in later that night. Be sure to wear clothes that you can easily move in. Short skirts can create a challenge since you will be constantly focused on pulling your skirt down. If you opt to bring a change of clothes, yoga wear is a great option. However, keep in mind that you will only have about 5 minutes to change afterwards so you’ll want to bring clothes that are easy to change in and out of.
Date & Time: Thur April 8th 8:10-9:10pm; please arrive by 8pm to sign your fitness waiver.
Location: Aradia Fitness, Uptown Toronto
APEX Centre; 1174 Eglinton Ave W. (@ Allen Rd)
Please note: There is no outdoor sign reading “ARADIA FITNESS”, please look for a grey ground level building with blue lettering over the door reading “APEX CENTRE”.
For more about this location and if you have any other questions, please visit http://aradiafitness.com/
Tickets: Pre-Payment: $20 per person; $15 for Fit & Fab Challenge Participants
DRESS LIKE A PRO: How the Perfect Closet Can Make You Look & Feel Fabulous (Apr 22)
March 20, 2010 by Master-User
Filed under Past PFW Events
Do you ever hear yourself say…?
I have nothing to wear!
I don’t know what looks good on me!
Please join us for this informative evening of fashion & fun as we learn the basics of image and style!
Erin Nadler of Better Styled will be covering a wide variety of fashion topics to help us get our closets ready for the spring season!
Image and Impact
- Why it is important to dress for success
- How to dress appropriately for every situation
What to look for when shopping
- How to find the perfect cut that flatters your body type
- What is my body type?
Spring-Summer 2010 trends
- Weeding through the trends – how to stay current without looking like a fashion victim
- How to incorporate the trends into your wardrobe
LIVE FASHION SHOW | COMPLIMENTARY WINE & LIGHT FARE
About Erin Nadler
After graduating from York University, Erin Nadler pursued her “passion for fashion” and became a fourth generation member of the fashion industry. Having the advantage of growing up in a family whose focus and livelihood was ladies’ wear manufacturing, Erin is very knowledgeable and her insights and sense of style are well-honed.
As president of Better Styled and a member of the Association of Image Consultants, Erin is an asset when combining her style sense and knowledge of the ladies’ wear business. For years now, this winning combination has given women an advantage in developing their own personal look. Her vivacious, enthusiastic and kind personality will make Erin a trusted ally in building your own personal image.
In addition to helping women through Better Styled, Erin has shared her expertise by writing for various e-zines. Her commitment to women’s issues continues with her support of Dress Your Best, a non-profit agency helping women re-enter the work force, Sheena’s Place, aiding women battling eating disorders and through her Plastic Bag Initiative, supporting Breast Cancer Research.
DRESS LIKE A PRO: How the Perfect Closet Can Raise Your Self-Esteem
Thursday, April 22 7:00 pm-9:00 pm
150 Eglinton Avenue East, Suite 806, Toronto, Ontario
Pre-Payment of $25; Challenge Particiapnts $20
$30 Cash at the door
Fit & Fab Challenge — Launch Event (Mar 27)
March 11, 2010 by Master-User
Filed under Past PFW Events
Introducing the New Fit & Fab YOU!
IMPORTANT: This event is FREE and restricted to those who are already registered & paid for the Fit & Fab Challenge.
If you’re not signed up yet, please take a moment to check out all the details & amazing benefits of Fit & Fab Challenge!
About the Launch Event
Join us for a fun, educational and interactive afternoon to meet other participants in the Fit & Fab Challenge, meet the experts, tour the beautiful facilities, learn proper techniques for getting the most out of your workouts and get your goodies! You’ll have an opportunity to meet your personal trainers and make your complimentary appointment for your Personal Health Profile.
This event is FREE for all participants in the Fit & Fab Challenge, but you must register HERE once you complete your Challenge sign-up.
Important: Can’t make the Launch Event, but still want to participate in the Challenge? No problem, just let us know and we’ll make arrangements for you.
Fit & Fab Launch Event
GoodLife Fitness Toronto Street Women's Club
Date: March 27, 2010
1:30 pm-4:00 pm
GoodLife Fitness Toronto Street Women’s Club
36 Toronto Street (corner of Adelaide & Victoria)
Again, this event is FREE for all participants in the Fit & Fab Challenge.
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The Challenge: A 6-week lifestyle-changing program to help you look great and feel fabulous!
Play Time: March 27 to May 8, 2010
How Does the Fit & Fab Challenge Work?
Once you sign up for the Challenge, you’ll receive everything you need!
- Attend our Launch event on March 27 at GoodLife Fitness Toronto Street Women’s Club (2 sessions to choose from)
- Book your 1-on-1 appointment to receive your free pre-challenge Personal Health Profile
- Enjoy the fun of collaborating in small groups of 3-4 for maximum support, accountability and motivation
- Get guidance and support in setting up your goals and designing your optimal workout schedule
- Use your personal Log Book to keep track of your progress and help you stay motivated
- Take advantage of your free access pass for 12 sessions to each of GoodLife Fitness Toronto Street Women’s Club and 889 Yonge (Yoga Studio)
- Attend Fit & Fab events throughout the challenge to maximize your knowledge, motivation and fun factor!
- Make use of all the amazing services & resources available to you to help you achieve your personal objectives to look & feel fabulous
- Make your appointment to receive your free post-challenge Personal Health Profile with a personal trainer to see just how far you’ve progresses since the start date
- Join the Finale event on May 16th at 889 Yonge to celebrate with your teammates and the rest of the participants!
What’s Included When You Sign up for the Challenge?
➢ Free Admission to the Fit & Fab Launch event on March 27 @ 1:30 -4:00 pm – an afternoon of inspiration and education to be held at GoodLife Fitness Toronto Street Women’s Club
➢ 2 Free Private Personal Health Profiles (pre & post challenge) including a full assessment of your resting heart rate, blood pressure, BMI/body composition from GoodLife Fitness Toronto Street Women’s Club (valued at $198)
➢ 12 Free Workout sessions at GoodLife Fitness Toronto Street Women’s Club with full access to the gym, GroupEX and Gravity classes, cardio theatre, free weights, with a complimentary orientation program for the Fit Fix circuit ($300 value)
➢ One free stylish gym bag from GoodLife Fitness Toronto Street Women’s Club ($40 value)
➢ 12 Free Yoga sessions at 889 Yonge with full access to all classes ($240 value)
➢ A free 20-minute nutritional consultation from Joy McCarthy of Joyous Health ($50 value)
➢ One free 20-minute image consultation with Erin Nadler of Better Styled ($ 50 value)
➢ One free 20-minute skin consultation from Vysada Ayurvedic Natural Skin Care ($50 value)
➢ One free 20-minute Fit & Fab Action Plan: Lifestyle management coaching from Jumpstart Living ($60 value)
That’s almost $1,000 of free fitness sessions & goodies!
And That’s Not All. You’ll Also Get:
➢ Assistance to help you set your goals and design your workout schedule
➢ A tracking system to support you in reaching your fitness goals
➢ Weekly online/emailed motivational and wellness tips
➢ Discounts for all of PFW Fit & Fab Event Series during the challenge period
➢ Priority discounted tickets for the Ultimate Fit & Fab Day Out on May 16th to be held at 889 Yonge
➢ Plus Goodie Bags, Samples, Coupons and Much More!!!
Don’t wait! Limited space available for this program. Sign up now and get ready to get fit & look fabulous just in time for summer!
Early Bird Price by March 14: $ 97 per person
Regular Registration Price: $ 129/per person
A portion of all proceeds of the Fit & Fab Program will go to support Up with Women, a charitable foundation that helps homeless women and children rebuild their lives.
Our Fit & Fab Challenge is open to women of all ages.
I’m up for the challenge — sign me up now!
