Read Time: estimated 6–8 minutes  Losing a loved one is one of life’s hardest challenges, and this year, on November 2, 2024, I lost my dad Alan Goldstone. He was 81 years old—just 19 days shy of his 82nd birthday. He always had impeccable timing in life, and even his passing carried his unique flair for cutting things close. While it was his time to go, the process of saying goodbye was far from easy. As much as I’d love to tell you that being a energy worker gave me a “get out of grief free” card, the truth is, I felt and still feel every bit of it. But grief isn’t just about pain—it’s about love, reflection, and sometimes even laughter amidst the tears. My dad’s life, filled with strength, struggles, and humour, reminded me that even in loss, we can find moments of light. A Life Marked by Resilience (and a Stubborn Streak) From as long as I can remember, my dad wasn’t the healthiest man. At just 40 years old, he was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME, Yuppie Flu). That marked the beginning of a long journey of ups and downs in his health. By the time he reached his late 70s, life decided to up the ante by throwing Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) into the mix. PSP is a rare neurological condition—a fancy way of saying, “Your brain is trying to pull a fast one on you.” It’s cruel and relentless, stealing mobility, balance, and the ability to live independently. My dad, a once-proud and dashing man, became confined to a chair, watching TV and trying to outsmart his condition with sheer willpower (and, let’s be honest, a good dose of grumpiness). He adored his grandchildren and lived for their visits. Even when he couldn’t do much else, his face lit up whenever they were around. That love kept him going, but I could see the toll PSP had taken. As a family, we worked hard to give him as much dignity and comfort as possible, knowing how much he valued those things. Did I Get a Heads-Up from Spirit? Here’s where people always get curious. As an energy worker and spirit messenger, many assume I get advance notice when a loved one’s time is near. I’d love to say I had a big cosmic “Heads up! Dad’s checking out soon!” message, but no, I didn’t. Spirit doesn’t always work that way. Instead, they leave breadcrumbs. Little clues. Subtle hints. The problem? I was so busy juggling earthly life—caring for him, supporting my family, and trying to keep my sense of humor intact—that I missed the signs until later. Looking back, I can see them clearly. But in the moment, I was as clueless as anyone else. (Let’s face it—sometimes spirit’s signs are like those Ikea instructions. You don’t know what they mean until it’s already built… or broken.) A Proud Legacy (and the Men Who Don’t Last as Long) My dad came from a line of incredibly strong-willed people, especially the women. His grandmother lived to 97, his mother to 96, and his two aunts are still going strong at 100 and 102. The men? Well, let’s just say they didn’t quite match those numbers. (It’s like the universe decided to give the longevity genes to the women and leave the men out of the deal.) But while the men in my family may not live as long, they live deeply. My dad was no exception. He loved fiercely, fought valiantly against every health challenge, and carried himself with as much dignity as his body allowed. Even in his final days, he made sure his family felt his love, especially his grandchildren, who were his greatest joy. Grieving as a Lightworker Let me bust a myth here: Just because I’m a lightworker doesn’t mean I don’t cry into my tea (or wine, depending on the day) when grief hits. Yes, I have a spiritual connection to the higher realms, but that doesn’t make me immune to the very human feelings of loss. When my dad passed, my first instinct wasn’t to wallow in my own grief—it was to help my children process theirs. They adored their granddad, and the loss hit them hard. With the help of spirit, I found the strength to lift them up, which, in turn, helped me heal too. But let me tell you, even as a spiritual worker, I’ve had moments where I shook my fist at the heavens and asked, “Really? This is the plan?” It’s okay to feel that way. Spirit knows we’re human, and they’re not offended by our emotions. Finding Humor Amidst the Tears One thing my dad taught me was the power of humor, even in the darkest times. After his passing, I couldn’t help but chuckle at some of the little quirks he left behind. Like how he’d stockpile biscuits “just in case” and how his remote control was practically glued to his hand. Grief doesn’t always have to be solemn. Sometimes, remembering the little funny moments—the quirks, the jokes, the times they made you roll your eyes—can bring comfort. It’s those moments that remind you they’re still with you, in spirit and in memory. Support for Carers: You’re Not Alone If you’re caring for someone with PSP, Parkinson’s, or any other debilitating condition, know that you’re not alone. In the UK, Parkinson’s UK offers fantastic resources for carers, from helplines to local support groups. They also provide practical advice for handling the emotional and physical toll of caregiving. Across the pond in the USA, organizations like The Parkinson’s Foundation and Cure PSP are there to support you with education, advocacy, and community. Caring for someone with a condition like PSP is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s okay to ask for help, whether from family, friends, or support organizations. You don’t have to do it all on your own. Trusting Spirit and Moving Forward If you’re grieving, you may be desperate

Estimated read time is around 5 minutes Reiki Healing: Ancient Energy for Modern Well-BeingDiscover the benefits of this Japanese technique for stress relief, relaxation, and holistic healing. Reiki, an ancient Japanese healing technique, is becoming increasingly popular as a way to reduce stress, encourage relaxation, and support overall well-being. Whether you’re completely new to energy healing or have already explored alternative therapies, Reiki offers transformative benefits for your physical, emotional, and spiritual health. What is Reiki? The word Reiki comes from two Japanese terms: Rei, meaning “universal,” and Ki, meaning “life energy.” At its core, Reiki is the practice of channeling universal energy to promote healing and balance within the body, mind, and spirit. Reiki is based on the concept that life force energy flows through all of us. When this energy is blocked or depleted, it can lead to stress, illness, or emotional imbalance. A Reiki session seeks to restore this flow, allowing the body to heal itself naturally. How Does Reiki Work? During a Reiki session, a practitioner channels healing energy into the recipient by placing their hands on or just above the body. The practitioner acts as a conduit for universal energy, directing it to areas that need healing or balance. This process works to clear energy blockages in the body, promoting harmony and allowing the body’s natural healing processes to function more effectively. Reiki is non-invasive, gentle, and deeply relaxing, making it accessible to people of all ages and health conditions. The Benefits of Reiki Reiki offers a wide range of benefits that encompass physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. 1. Stress Relief and Relaxation Reiki induces a state of deep relaxation, easing tension in the body and mind. It helps calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety levels. 2. Emotional Healing Reiki can bring emotional clarity and balance, helping to release negative emotions such as fear, anger, or sadness. It’s a powerful tool for promoting positivity and emotional resilience. 3. Physical Healing While Reiki isn’t a replacement for medical treatment, it can complement traditional therapies by enhancing the body’s natural healing processes. Regular sessions may help alleviate chronic pain, improve sleep, and support recovery from illness or injury. 4. Spiritual Growth Reiki nurtures your connection to your higher self and the universe. For those on a spiritual path, it can provide insights, clarity, and a deeper sense of purpose. Who Can Benefit from Reiki? One of the most beautiful aspects of Reiki is its universality—it’s suitable for everyone. Whether you’re navigating emotional challenges, recovering from a physical ailment, or seeking spiritual growth, Reiki can help. Reiki is especially beneficial for: People experiencing high levels of stress or anxiety. Individuals managing chronic conditions or pain. Those feeling emotionally “stuck” or in need of clarity. Anyone seeking greater spiritual connection and alignment. Because it works as a complementary therapy, Reiki can be safely integrated with conventional medical treatments, enhancing their effectiveness while supporting overall well-being. Reiki and Chakras: Balancing Your Energy Centres Chakras are energy centres within the body, and when they’re blocked or out of balance, it can lead to physical or emotional discomfort. Reiki works to align and balance these energy centres, ensuring that life force energy flows freely. Balanced chakras can lead to: Improved mental clarity. Greater emotional stability. Enhanced physical vitality and resilience. At its essence, Reiki aligns your energy with your highest potential, making it a valuable tool for holistic healing. What to Expect in a Reiki Session If you’ve never tried Reiki, you might wonder what it’s like. Here’s a glimpse into a typical session: Setting the Space: The practitioner creates a calming environment, often using soft music, dim lighting, or essential oils. The Session: You’ll lie down, fully clothed, while the practitioner places their hands gently on or near your body. The Energy Flow: You may feel warmth, tingling, or a sense of calm as energy flows through your body. Some people experience emotional release or deep relaxation. A Reiki session typically lasts 45-60 minutes, leaving you feeling lighter, calmer, and more balanced. Why Try Reiki Today? In today’s fast-paced world, stress and imbalance have become all too common. Reiki offers a gentle, effective way to restore harmony to your body, mind, and spirit. Here are just a few reasons to give Reiki a try: You’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed. You’re seeking relief from chronic pain or illness. You want to feel more aligned with your life’s purpose. You’re curious about energy healing and its potential benefits. Reiki isn’t just a therapy—it’s an experience of connection, healing, and transformation. Reiki: A Path to Balance and Wellness Reiki healing is more than just a practice; it’s a journey toward greater peace, clarity, and vitality. By working with your body’s natural energy, Reiki helps you unlock your innate potential for healing and well-being. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, recover from illness, or explore spiritual growth, Reiki offers a powerful and nurturing solution. Ready to experience the transformative power of Reiki? Embrace the opportunity to bring balance, harmony, and healing into your life today.