The Soul Comes Home

Morning. Earl Grey tea, sandalwood incense, my favorite ginger cat named OM is still asleep at 5:48 a.m. I walk to the window to see the conjunction of Jupiter and Venus. It only lasts for a few days, so I was lucky to be a witness to this beautiful sight. A few clouds parted just enough to reveal them: bright, small diamonds in the sky that brought so much awe to my heart.

This new home, where I moved a few months ago, brings an unfamiliar sense of peace. Or perhaps, I've finally learned to hold it in my heart with much less effort than I did during the days of darkness. I am becoming serenity itself, and it feels so good. Some days feel like a permanent vacation. I wonder if this is how we should all live—it seems so natural. But then I remember a time when work and "being someone" were all that mattered to me.

I feel reborn and renewed, but also maturing—not just physically, but deep in my soul. I value things differently now, and I savor each piece of my everyday life, simple yet so present. This painting represents that feeling. I confess I had to paint it twice; I didn't like the first version. This is the second piece, and I think I might create another one. I'm working on getting better at watercolor, and it takes a lot of practice. Not every piece turns out great, but I'm truly enjoying the process.

The Wisdom of Spiritual Connection

The spirit doesn't just come to the holy; it comes to those who seek it.

It arrives in the empty space we create after letting go of old beliefs. True wisdom is when you become it; words fade into nothing, and being itself acts on its own knowledge.

You can walk through fires without being burned. You are the sky, and your thoughts are merely the clouds. Every act of love helps heal the world.

When you stop seeing yourself through your eyes and begin to feel yourself through your heart, you will finally know who you truly are.

Every action and every thought carries a seed that will inevitably grow. Life is your teacher, and what you give will be given back. We live in a room of mirrors, and the reactions to our actions will sometimes only be witnessed by those who come after us—a form of ancestral karma. We are always empowered to choose in every moment.

Be like a river when encountering challenges: instead of fighting them, flow around them. They are nothing.

We are the holy, the sacred, having a human experience. Our thoughts and actions often make us feel unworthy. We are also conditioned to forget the truth of who we are, taught to feel only human—to be scared of the world, scared of disease, and scared of dying.

These are the beliefs of the conditioned mind. Once in this world, we are taught to be afraid of everything.

Only you can bring peace to your heart. There is nothing more important than connecting with your soul each day, each night, and realizing who you truly are.

The Spirit in the Everyday World

The sacred is not something found in distant places, but in every moment and action of our lives.  We are convinced that it's distant, in some other realm, that we are not it, that we are separated from the sacred. 

True wisdom is not found externally, but from within.  By unlearning fear, we return to the truth of our essence.

As we empty ourselves in the silence of meditation, we create a space for the pure spirit to enter. Together, we begin to form a new, cleaner, and healthier self. Through this practice, all things heal. We no longer hold onto what is wrong, doubt, or fear; instead, we replace it with the peace of simply being.

Daily life becomes a delight, especially when we learn to carry that state of being with us after our daily meditation. Everything around us begins to shine and breathe, and we connect effortlessly with nature and life itself. This is the essence of life: finding what we truly are—pure consciousness—and learning how to achieve and hold onto that state within ourselves.

This doesn't mean we will be free of future pain or suffering but we can do a lot by taking charge of our own inner state and make it a good place to live in.

Inspired by the previous post 

Rituals of Self-Love

• Connect with deep music.

• Paint.

• Create something with your hands.

• Cook a healthy, nourishing meal for yourself.

• Walk.

• Listen to the birds.

• Bathe in the sunlight.

• Take a gentle rain shower.

• Be fully present with yourself.

• Write in a journal.

• Watch the sunrise or sunset in silence.

• Give yourself a gentle massage with your favorite oils.

• Practice a few minutes of quiet stillness.

• Light a candle and simply watch the flame.

You are the only one who can bring new experiences into your life—but only when you start doing it consciously and with purpose. Don't leave it to chance. Take the wheel and guide yourself back to the peace where you truly belong.

 Thank you for being, for staying inspired and for making the world better, by healing, improving and being a loving soul walking through the world.  Namaste 🙏🏻🥰

The dream of the universe

Are We But a Dream? Unraveling the Mystery of Existence and Enlightenment

"We are but a dream of the universe." This profound statement, echoed by many ancient wisdom traditions and modern spiritual teachers, invites us to contemplate the very nature of our existence. If enlightenment is akin to "waking from a dream," as many ascended masters suggest, then a captivating question arises: Who, or what, is the dreamer? And what exactly does it mean to awaken?

For centuries, humanity has grappled with the concept of a unifying force behind all creation. Whether we refer to it as the Higher Self, God, Source, or the Universe itself, these names often point to the same boundless, intelligent energy from which everything originates. It's possible these seemingly distinct labels are simply different facets or frequencies of this singular, divine essence – a universal consciousness that manifests in myriad forms. Our individual connection to this source might lead us to resonate with one name over another, yet ultimately, we are all referencing the same great creator.

For your art journal or art inspiration!

But if we are indeed part of a grand cosmic dream, what would it be like to "wake up"? Enlightenment isn't merely an intellectual understanding; it's often described as a radical shift in perception, a profound knowing that transcends the limitations of the ego and the material world. It could involve:

• A dissolution of the illusion of separation: Recognizing our inherent interconnectedness with all beings and the universe itself. The feeling of being a solitary drop in the ocean gives way to the realization that we are the entire ocean in a drop.

• An experience of pure consciousness: Moving beyond the constant chatter of the mind and ego to a state of profound peace, clarity, and boundless awareness.

• The unveiling of our true nature: Discovering the infinite potential, unconditional love, and innate wisdom that lies within us, free from the conditioning of societal norms and personal history.

• Living in alignment with universal flow: Effortlessly navigating life with grace and purpose, guided by an inner knowing rather than external pressures.

Perhaps the "dreamer" is this very universal consciousness, and our individual lives are its intricate, diverse, and evolving expressions. To awaken, then, would be to fully realize our part in this magnificent cosmic dance – not as separate entities, but as integral, conscious aspects of the dream itself, now lucidly aware of its vastness and our own inherent divinity.

What are your thoughts on this cosmic dream? Have you ever had moments where you felt a deeper connection to something beyond yourself?

Original watercolor and acrylics by Monica Zuniga/Hands and Heart.

Art Journal Prompt: Stardust Soul 

Inspiration board!

"We are made of stars." This profound idea connects us directly to the cosmic dance of creation. For this journal page, let's explore what it feels like to be made of stardust.

Your mission, should you choose to accept it 😀 :

Create a journal page that visually represents your connection to the cosmos. Think about:

• Colors and textures: What do stars feel like? What colors do you associate with galaxies, nebulae, or the night sky? Experiment with glitter, metallic paints, textured papers, or even tiny sequins to evoke sparkle and depth.
• Imagery: Do you see yourself as a tiny galaxy? Are there constellations forming within you? Perhaps a cosmic swirl of energy or planets orbiting your heart? Consider incorporating celestial bodies, abstract starbursts, or even microscopic views of atoms that hint at their stellar origins.
• Words and feelings: How does this idea make you feel? Write down words like "awe," "infinite," "connected," "ancient," "radiant," or "potential." You might include the quote "We are made of stars" prominently, or other short phrases that come to mind.
• Your unique spin: This isn't about scientific accuracy, but about personal interpretation. What does your "stardust soul" look like?

Here I share my own interpretation, to inspire you!  Scroll down for a second option! 

Let your imagination wander through the universe and bring that cosmic magic to your page!

What kind of materials do you have ready for your journal, here is the idea for mine, you may try the same.

That's an fantastic set of materials to work with for a "Stardust Soul" art journal page! You've got a lot of versatility there. Here's what I suggest for combining them to bring that prompt to life:

General Approach:

• Layering is Key: Art journals thrive on layers. Don't be afraid to build up your page with different materials.
• Embrace Imperfection: It's an art journal, not a masterpiece for display. Enjoy the process and let happy accidents happen.
• Abstract & Interpretive: The "made of stars" theme lends itself beautifully to abstract interpretations, so don't feel limited by realistic depictions.

Specific Suggestions for Your Materials:

Watercolors:

Cosmic Backgrounds: This is your primary tool for creating ethereal, swirling, galaxy-like backgrounds. 

Wet-on-Wet: Lay down a wash of water first, then drop in different colors (blues, purples, black, deep reds, even a touch of yellow or green) and let them blend organically. This creates beautiful, unpredictable nebulous effects.

Splattering: Once your background is slightly dry, load a brush with white or metallic watercolor (or even white acrylic paint thinned with water) and tap it over your page to create "stars.

Bleeding Edges: If you're doing a human form, consider painting it loosely so the colors subtly bleed into the background, making it feel integrated with the cosmos.

Transparency: Watercolors are naturally translucent, which is perfect for representing the light and ephemeral quality of stardust.

1. Papers for Collage:

• Textural Elements: Look for papers with interesting textures – old book pages, sheet music, patterned paper, tissue paper, even bits of packaging. These can add a tactile dimension to your "universe."
• Defining Shapes: You could cut out shapes of a human silhouette, planets, stars, or abstract forms from your collage papers.
  • Contrasting Tones: Place dark papers over light watercolor backgrounds, or vice versa, to create depth.
  • Tearing vs. Cutting: Tearing papers can give a softer, more organic edge, while cutting offers crispness.
• Words & Meaning: If you have old book pages or newspaper, you could tear out words or phrases that resonate with "stars," "magic," "universe," "soul," etc., and collage them onto your page.
• Layer under/over paint: Glue down some collage papers before you paint with watercolors, allowing the paint to wash over them, or glue them after for more distinct layers.

Check my Pinterest wall about collage sheets and pick your favorite to work with for the project!

1. Sewing Materials: This is where it gets really interesting and adds a unique tactile element!

   • Stitched "Constellations": Use embroidery floss (metallic or glow-in-the-dark would be amazing!) to sew small "stars" or connect points to form simple constellations on your page.
   • Textural Outlines: Outline a human form or a cosmic swirl with running stitches. This adds definition and a handcrafted feel.
   • Fabric Scraps for Texture: If you have small, thin fabric scraps (like tulle, lace, or silk), you could glue them down for added cosmic texture or a veil-like effect.
   • Thread as "Trails": Drape or glue down strands of thread to represent shooting stars or comet trails.
   • Beads/Sequins (if you have them): A few small beads or sequins stitched on could truly be your "sparkles of magic" or tiny planets.
   
   
   
   
   

*Putting it Together (A Sample Flow):

Prep: Gesso your journal page if it's thin paper (to prevent buckling).

Background: Start with your watercolor washes to create a cosmic, nebulous base. Let it dry partially or fully.

Collage Foundation: Add larger pieces of collage paper – maybe a muted background texture, or a torn silhouette shape.

Details & Layers:Add more watercolor layers or splatters for stars.Begin to incorporate smaller collage elements – perhaps words, or cut-out stars/planets.Start your stitching! Add embroidered stars, outlines, or thread trails.

Refine: Add any final details with pens (gel pens, metallic markers for highlights), more splatters, or even small sewn-on embellishments.

Have so much fun with this! It's a wonderful opportunity to combine different art forms and express a beautiful concept.

Namaste 🙏🏻 I am grateful to be able to share all this with you, may it help you somehow in your own journey, thank you for being here, you are loved and appreciated 🥰

The higher mind meditation

Life is a journey that is forever unfolding, We are life, we are forever unfolding.  

Beautiful Music for your heart

Take a deep Journey to Inner Truth

We all find ourselves at different stages of understanding the profound truth of who we are and what our existence entails. When one is ready to confront their truth, they embark on this journey like a warrior of light, seeking clarity and enlightenment.

The Quest for Communion with the Divine

Many of us ponder the nature of our communion with God. Engaging in individual sessions of connection with the spirit is essential—this can be achieved through prayer or meditation. Taking time in solitude to turn inward allows you to establish your own connection to truth and spirit, which serves as your true guidance.

Are You Ready for This Path?

A key indicator of your readiness is your genuine interest in spirituality. If you find yourself drawn to information—whether it be books, music, or teachings—that resonate with your inner self, and you feel a desire to delve deeper and understand more, this is a powerful sign.

Conversely, if you feel easily bored or disinterested, it’s perfectly natural to gravitate toward what truly captivates you. Not everyone experiences an inner calling from the spirit, and that is completely acceptable.

             

Understanding Spirituality

Spirituality is fundamentally about connecting with your spirit. Through this connection, you will come to realize that there is only one spirit: your higher self. The higher realm, often referred to as God, embodies the same spirit but exists at different levels of consciousness. God has infused its consciousness into countless fragments, each of which constitutes who we are.

Communion with God is always accessible because it is, in essence, you connecting with your higher self at a different frequency of energy. Engaging in this connection consciously will awaken you to a deeper level of understanding. God embodies pure, unconditional love. When you vibrate at that frequency, you become one with it—until you choose otherwise.

To truly embody unconditional love, you must consciously sustain it. You hold the key to maintaining your inner frequency and conscious state, as you are always exercising your free will.

"If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency, and vibration."    Nikola Tesla  

Now think of this in your self.  How are you this energy, frequency and vibration?

Navigating Distractions

It’s important to recognize that distractions can easily divert you from maintaining your inner state. While I don’t believe that discipline needs to be overly rigid, it’s crucial to remain aware of the myriad distractions in the world that can lead you astray. A strong will and self-imposed discipline can guide you on your spiritual journey, helping you stay aligned with your true path.

Embrace the journey of spirituality as a means to uncover your inner truth, and allow the light within you to shine brightly.

Important questions to ask your self.

Where do you want to be wiser? Where do you refuse to grow up? 

     The ego mind

The ego mind represents what we have learned we are—who we believe we are. Simply put, the ego consists of the beliefs that shape your mind and influence your reactions to the world. By quieting the mind, you can free yourself from these beliefs. In silence, when you align with true love that comes from connecting to the source, you become one with God again.  

You have always been that same source, but the ego mind keeps it hidden behind its curtains of beliefs until you are ready to confront your true self and begin the cleansing of your mind and heart.

The ego keeps the source and our true frequency veiled, diverting our attention to the world and its myriad distractions. Especially if we focus on fear, nothing will distance us further from the truth than fear itself. Our free will allows us to choose where we want to be and what we want to become. Until we choose to embody love, we will not experience it.

Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.  Carl Jung

How could you purify your heart in a way that stays pure and endures the tests that come from living in this world?  It is a constant work to keep yourself in harmony, it has to be a discipline to observe yourself and improve your frequency or inner state. 

"The primary cause of unhappiness is never the situation but your thoughts about it. In the end, the ego is the one that suffers." -Eckhart Tolle

Many mystics have traversed their spiritual journeys and shared the wisdom they acquired along the way. However, this knowledge will remain elusive unless you actively engage in your own exploration. Merely listening will not suffice; without personal experience, you may perceive it as a myth—something distant and unattainable.

If you begin your journey now, you will discover that your path is unique yet closely aligned with those who have guided us. Embrace the insights they have offered, and recognize that your understanding contributes to the greater whole. When you share your experiences, you enrich the collective wisdom of all.

For this painting, I used mixed media paper, watercolors, white pen and golden acrylic paint, this painting was inspired by an older work created with acrylics.

Final piece, watercolor and acrylics on paper by Monica Zuniga.

Thank you for being here, your presence is deeply appreciated. Namaste 🙏🏻

Moni.