Like many writers, I love to read. The walls lined with books in my house are testament to this (and yes, I still prefer the rough feel of paper to the slickness of a screen for reading). When looking for books to improve my writing, I usually either turn to beautifully written novels, or more practical “how-to” books about writing. The book I’d like to look at here, however, doesn’t fall into either of these categories.
First, a little back-story. The clients I work with aren’t writing vanity books meant to simply make a lot of money. They have a deeper message to share, and one that takes accessing a deeper part of themselves to connect with this message. One place to find tools to help you do this is in “How to Channel Your Higher Self” by Celeste Hamman. In this book, Celeste looks at ways to access and communicate with your “higher self.”
I often advise writers to build a “bridge” between their busy, thinking-oriented lives and their more reflective writing time. This takes us deeper into what we really want to say. In this book, several exercises are ideal for this. One of my favorites is Celeste’s “Opening to Appreciation” exercise. I start by breathing deeply, and then drop down into my heart space. I feel into the warmth and love there (if it’s not immediately accessible, she suggests thinking of puppies or whatever will help you get to that feeling), and then expand it to my whole body and even the environment around me. Then, I note what I appreciate in my life, and after a few more luxurious breaths, I begin writing from a much more heart-based, centered place.
If this book sounds like something you’d like to check out and you’re reading this the week of May 17, you’re in luck! This week, Celeste is also offering a number of bonuses to everyone who orders her book (including a writing ecourse from me!). Go to Channel Your Higher Self and check it out. Oh yeah, for those who prefer getting information in other ways, along with the book you get fre*e access to an experiential online environment with audio recordings, video presentations and a resource link library.
Meantime, try the appreciation exercise before you write and watch what flows onto your page…
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