Join us for Season 2: Episode 2: Autism, Cannabis, and Spirituality

It’s the season of love, and we are proud to host Janna Champagne as our expert guest on this topic. Janna is a retired nurse, herbalist, cannabis expert and nonprofit founder of 501c3: Autism Safe Haven.

https://autismsafehaven.org

The Grow Podcast is created by Wendy Love Edge and Ashley

Contact Wendy at edgecoachingandconsulting.com

Ashley:

Cannabisnursingsolutions.com

Embarking on the quest to discover your true self is an intertwining journey of mental wellness and philosophical inquiry. It is both introspective and transformative, requiring a deep acknowledgment and understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This exploration demands self-reflection and the practice of mindfulness, allowing you to observe your mental and emotional patterns without judgment, including the critical process of inner child healing.
Identifying the genuine aspects of your personality, distinct from those shaped by societal expectations, external pressures, and the 'shadow self' developed in childhood or during challenging times, is central to this journey. It involves delving into your inner world, uncovering authentic desires, and addressing mental health challenges that might obscure self-perception. The process is akin to "peeling an onion," where with each layer removed, we encounter both tears and moments of peace, signifying growth and understanding.
From a philosophical standpoint, the inquiry into "Who am I?" encourages an exploration of existence, consciousness, and identity beyond the superficial. Ancient philosophies, like Buddhism, suggest that the self is a construct of experiences, beliefs, and attachments, which can be deconstructed to unveil a more fundamental, interconnected existence. This perspective promotes detachment from materialistic and ego-centric values, fostering a sense of unity with the universe.
Engaging in meditation, contemplation, reading, and journaling can stimulate profound insights into the self's nature. These practices often lead to the realization of the impermanence of personal identity and the significance of living in harmony with universal truths. By integrating mental health and philosophical approaches, finding one's true self becomes a dynamic, fluid process of introspection, growth, and enlightenment. It involves understanding and peeling away conditioned thoughts and behaviors to reveal the core of your true self.
Recognizing and accepting this fluidity enables a more authentic self-expression, free from rigid definitions or labels. The journey towards self-discovery is ongoing, enriched by continuous personal development, leading to a deeper understanding and acceptance of oneself as part of the broader tapestry of life. Individuals often feel a compelling need at significant life ages on the decades when turning 30, 40, 50, or 60—to understand themselves better and find deeper life meaning. These spiritual windows of opportunity can be pivotal for deciding whether to embark on this transformative process, grow, and live the life you were meant to live, or resist and move in other directions. It’s all up to the individual. Though the process can be life changing for the better, it is not easy, and so it is always a choice. That said, once on the other side of the process, most individuals will say it was worth the effort as they feel more comfortable in their own skin, understand themselves, and now make choices in alignment with who they really are and what they want out of life.

Join Wendy Jo and Ashley as they wrap up season 1 of The Grow Podcast

Contact Ashley at

Cannabisnursingsolutions.com

Contact Wendy at

Edgecoachingandconsulting.com

#thegrowpodcast #season1 #spirituality #spiritualjourney

Join Wendy Jo and Ashley as they discuss grow rights and spirituality

Contact Ashley at cannabisnursingsolutions.com

Contact Wendy at

Edgecoachingandconsulting.com

Having cannabis plant grow rights can be considered a spiritual issue for several reasons. Firstly, many cultures and religious traditions around the world have historically used cannabis as a spiritual sacrament. In these contexts, the plant is revered for its ability to facilitate deep meditation, introspection, and connection to the divine or to nature. This spiritual significance is deeply rooted in the historical and cultural practices of various societies, making the act of growing cannabis an extension of these spiritual rituals and beliefs. Denying individuals the right to grow cannabis can be seen as an infringement on their religious and spiritual freedoms, akin to restricting access to other sacred substances or symbols integral to religious practices.

Secondly, the process of cultivating a living plant can itself be a deeply spiritual and meditative practice. For many, the act of nurturing and tending to a cannabis plant is a form of communion with nature and a practice of mindfulness. It allows individuals to engage in a cycle of growth and renewal that many find spiritually fulfilling. The ability to grow one’s own cannabis means having a personal and direct relationship with the plant, which is often seen as an essential aspect of its spiritual use. This connection to the growth process adds a layer of personal significance and respect for the plant, which is central to many spiritual approaches to cannabis use. Thus, the right to grow cannabis is intertwined with the right to engage in personal spiritual practices and rituals.

Join Wendy Jo and Ashley as they discuss religious symbols.

Enjoy more insights from our guest, Heather Lawver

Religious symbols are visual or emblematic representations associated with specific religions or belief systems. They often convey rich and complex meanings rooted in the faith's history, beliefs, and practices. These symbols serve various purposes:

Identity and Belonging: They act as identifiers of a particular faith, creating a sense of belonging among its followers.

Teaching and Remembrance: Symbols often encapsulate core teachings or events, serving as reminders or tools for instruction.

Focus for Worship or Meditation: Many believers use these symbols as focal points during worship or meditation, aiding in spiritual concentration.

Regarding their importance, religious symbols:

Carry Deep Significance: For adherents, these symbols can embody the essence of their faith, beliefs, and spiritual experiences.

Foster Unity: They can create a sense of community and shared identity among followers.

Cultural and Historical Connection: Symbols often have deep historical roots, connecting believers to their faith's heritage and traditions.

As for their spiritual nature, it largely depends on the context and the beliefs of the individuals involved. For believers, these symbols can indeed be deeply spiritual, embodying divine or sacred realities. However, for others, they might hold more cultural or aesthetic value rather than spiritual.

The usage of religious symbols in non-religious spirituality can be attributed to several factors:

Cultural Integration: As societies become more multicultural, symbols from various religions often become integrated into the broader culture.

Personal Meaning: Individuals may find personal, non-religious meaning in these symbols, resonating with them on an aesthetic, philosophical, or spiritual level outside traditional religious contexts.

Universal Themes: Many religious symbols represent universal themes like love, peace, or the search for meaning, which can appeal to people regardless of their religious background.

New Age and Eclectic Spiritual Practices: In the context of New Age or eclectic spiritual practices, there is often a blending of elements from various religious traditions, including their symbols.

In summary, religious symbols are multifaceted and can be significant both in traditional religious contexts and in broader spiritual or cultural settings. The way they are interpreted and used can vary widely among individuals and groups, reflecting the diverse nature of belief and spirituality in the modern world.

Join Wendy Jo and Ashley as they discuss AI and Spirituality.

Special Guest: Fatima Edwards

The intersection of AI and spirituality is a thought-provoking and multifaceted topic, bridging the gap between technology and existential queries. Firstly, AI's rapid advancement raises profound questions about consciousness and the nature of being, topics traditionally explored within spiritual and philosophical realms. The debate on whether an AI can possess consciousness or a soul challenges our understanding of these concepts, pushing us to reconsider the essence of spirituality and its relationship to intelligence, whether organic or artificial.

Secondly, AI's potential role in enhancing human spirituality is a topic of growing interest. AI systems can analyze vast amounts of spiritual texts and teachings, offering personalized spiritual guidance or insights. This capability sparks discussions about the role of AI in facilitating spiritual experiences and growth, potentially transforming traditional practices. It raises questions about the authenticity of AI-mediated spirituality and its impact on personal and collective spiritual journeys.

Lastly, the ethical implications of AI in the context of spirituality cannot be overlooked. As AI systems become more integrated into our lives, the ethical guidelines governing their development and use take on a spiritual dimension. Questions about the moral responsibility of AI creators, the rights of AI entities, and the impact of AI on societal values resonate deeply with spiritual themes of stewardship, interconnectedness, and the pursuit of a greater good. This aspect underscores the need for a holistic approach to AI development, where technological progress is harmoniously aligned with spiritual and ethical considerations.

Join Wendy Jo and Ashley as they discuss Reiki.

To reach Ashley:

Cannabisnursingsolutions.com

To reach Wendy:

Edgecoachingandconsulting.com

Reiki is an energy-based approach to healing that promotes relaxation, reduces stress and anxiety, and the healing of the body. Reiki originated in ancient Tibetan Buddhist teachings, and was rediscovered in the 1800s in Japan. There are several schools of Reiki that became established in Japan, but the most common was established by Mikao Usui. After a spiritual awakening,

Mikao Usui, or Sensei Usui, established the healing system of laying hands and daily practice of mindfulness and personal development he called Reiki. It has been passed down by his students generation by generation. Reiki is also based on the principles of focusing on the present and doing your best everyday. Sensei Usui felt that this was the key to happiness.

The principles are:

1. Just for today I will let go of anger.

2. Just for today I will let go of worry.

3. Just for today I will count my blessings.

4. Just for today I will do my work honestly.

5. Just for today I will be kind to every living creature.

Reiki is an energy-based approach to healing that promotes relaxation, reduces stress and anxiety, and the healing of the body.

As a form of alternative therapy, it is based on the concept of channeling healing energy through a practitioner's hands to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual healing of the patient/recipient. It is also a form of self-healing. Here's a simplified explanation of how it works:

* Energy Flow: Practitioners believe that a universal life force energy flows through all living things. In Reiki, this energy is called "ki" or "chi."

* Practitioner's Role: A trained Reiki practitioner serves as a channel for this energy. They place their hands lightly on or near the recipient's body, intending to direct the energy to areas where it's needed.

* Balancing Energy: The belief is that if a person's ki is blocked or imbalanced, it can lead to physical or emotional issues. Reiki aims to clear blockages and balance the energy, facilitating the body's natural ability to heal itself.

* Relaxation and Healing: During a session, recipients often report feelings of deep relaxation, reduced stress, and often relief from physical discomfort. Reiki is considered a holistic approach to well-being.

Practitioners often use Reiki as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments. It can be quite useful to rebalance the body’s energy, promote a relaxation response, teach mindfulness, and promote healing.

There is scientific evidence for the efficacy of Reiki in mental health conditions and in physical healing.

#Reiki #spirituality #healing

Join Wendy Jo and Ashley as they discuss Spiritual bypassing vs Spiritual Authenticity.

Spiritual Bypassing vs. Spiritual Authenticity: Embracing Emotions for Spiritual Growth

Maria Chowdhury returns to the the show for an interview on the subject.

Pathwithharmony.com

Spiritual bypassing, often described as the avoidance of various emotions and life experiences in the quest for spiritual development, represents a tendency to utilize spiritual practices or beliefs as a shield against life's complexities. It involves glossing over or denying uncomfortable emotions like anger, grief, or fear, in favor of maintaining a facade of perpetual positivity and enlightenment. However, this approach may provide momentary relief but can hinder genuine spiritual growth. True spiritual authenticity, conversely, stems from embracing the complete range of human emotions and experiences.

Embracing the entire spectrum of emotions and experiences is paramount for authentic spiritual growth. Spiritual growth doesn't involve escaping life's difficulties but integrating them into your journey. Authenticity in spirituality arises from recognizing and fully experiencing emotions, whether pleasant or uncomfortable. Confronting these emotions offers profound insights into oneself and the world.

By wholeheartedly accepting the full range of emotions and experiences, individuals can cultivate deeper empathy and compassion, both for themselves and others. This authenticity nurtures a more profound connection to the spiritual path, fostering personal growth rooted in reality rather than illusion. Authentic spiritual growth isn't about evading life's challenges but confronting them head-on, leveraging them as opportunities for personal development, and ultimately evolving into more authentic and spiritually enlightened individuals.

Contact Wendy at

Edgecoachingandconsulting.com

Contact Ashley at

Cannabisnursingsolutions.com

#spirituality #authenticity

Join Wendy Jo and Ashley as they discuss the practice of gratitude as well as the difference between thankfulness and gratitude.

Gratitude as a Healing Practice:

Gratitude serves as a potent healing practice that transcends mere thankfulness. This profound emotional state entails a deeper appreciation of life's positive aspects, even amidst life's challenges. When integrated into one's daily routine, gratitude can yield transformative effects on mental and physical well-being. Extensive research demonstrates that nurturing gratitude can effectively diminish stress, anxiety, and depression while bolstering emotional resilience. By prompting individuals to focus on the present moment and express appreciation for life's blessings, whether big or small, gratitude acts as a therapeutic remedy, fostering healing across various dimensions of existence.

The Distinction Between Thankfulness and Gratitude:

Although the terms "thankfulness" and "gratitude" are frequently used interchangeably, a nuanced yet substantial difference sets them apart. Thankfulness typically involves a sense of appreciation for specific acts or gifts received from external sources. It primarily arises as a reaction to external events or gestures. In contrast, gratitude represents a more profound and encompassing emotional state that need not rely on external stimuli. It entails recognizing life's inherent value and feeling thankful for the very essence of existence. Gratitude extends beyond mere reactions to external circumstances, evolving into a holistic and affirmative approach to life. While thankfulness tends to be event-driven and specific, gratitude embraces a broader perspective, emphasizing a positive and appreciative mindset.

In summary, thankfulness constitutes an integral aspect of gratitude, but gratitude reaches beyond isolated acts of kindness or gifts. It epitomizes a deeper state of being that can be nurtured through mindfulness and introspection. As individuals adopt gratitude as a way of life, they not only express appreciation for their current circumstances but also uncover contentment and healing in the present moment, regardless of external challenges.

To connect with Ashley, go to:

Cannabisnursingschool.com

To connect with Wendy, go to:

Edgecoachingandconsulting.com

#gratitude #thankful #thegrowpodcast

The Grow Podcast does not Dispense Medical Advice and all of your health choices are your own

Join Wendy Jo and Ashley as they discuss herbal remedies.

Herbal remedies, steeped in centuries of cross-cultural use, serve as powerful tools for enhancing health, wellness, and spirituality. These natural remedies harness the unique properties and benefits found in plants, herbs, and botanicals. Central to their impact is the holistic approach they offer. In contrast to conventional medicines, which often target specific symptoms, herbal remedies delve into the root causes of health imbalances, fostering a sense of balance essential for overall well-being.

Additionally, herbal remedies typically entail fewer side effects compared to pharmaceutical drugs, rendering them a safer and gentler choice for many. This alignment with the spiritual facet of wellness is profound. The symbiotic relationship between a sound body and mind and spiritual growth is widely acknowledged. Herbal remedies, with their natural and harmonious attributes, are regarded as vehicles for purifying the body, facilitating a profound connection with one's inner self and the spiritual realm.

Furthermore, the practice of utilizing herbal remedies itself can evolve into a spiritual journey. The preparation of herbal teas, tinctures, or salves becomes a meditative, mindful endeavor, enhancing presence and awareness. The act of tending to and nurturing plants deepens one's spiritual connection to the Earth and its resources, syncing with the natural cycles of life. In essence, herbal remedies offer not just physical healing but also a transformative pathway to spiritual growth, promoting a holistic sense of health and wellness.

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