Jake Ducey: Into the Wind Review

Conscious Reads

“Along my travels I had been touched by synchronicity so often that I knew to expect it. “Coincidences” became messages from the unseen – like angels without wings, satisfying intermissions of life from a deeper level. They were omens.” – Jake Ducey

Recently, I stumbled upon the YouTube Channel of Jake Ducey, and I was quickly captivated by his upbeat attitude and infectious smile. After watching some of his videos, I learned that he had just experienced a major transformation in his life, and had written a book about it called “Into The Wind – My Six-Month Journey Wandering the World for Life’s Purpose.” I instantly knew I wanted to read all about his adventure and ordered myself a copy.

In his late twenties, Jake was struggling with internal unhappiness and a drug addiction. He realized after a period of time that his behavior was not bringing him fulfillment in the way he truly desired. He knew he needed to make a change. After deciding to take a break from college, Jake made the decision to use some money he had saved and travel.

Visiting places such as Guatemala, Australia, Indonesia and Thailand, Into the Wind shares Jake’s moments of clarity, joy, fear, uncertainty, and a brush with death itself during his travels. Having two companions in the beginning of his journey and then going the rest of the way alone, Jake finds kindness in total strangers and discovers the universe always leads him in the right direction. His multiple country expedition led him to discover his inner strength and the importance of living our destiny.

Jake believes everyone is powerful enough to create a life filled with realized dreams by making use of our talents to serve humanity. He learned this first hand through experience while traveling and decided spreading this message as far as possible is part of his purpose.

One of the ways Jake intends to share his message is through this book. Jake displays the writing ability of a classic novelist, with the insight of an ancient Tibetan monk. Fun to read and full of tidbits of wisdom, Into the Wind is an inspiring story that taught me about the importance of using our natural talents and passions to serve the greater good. It also taught me that it is possible to accomplish our dreams if we so desire, Jake’s story is proof.

You can learn more about Jake Ducey by checking out his website at http://www.jakeducey.com.

By: Jen Moeller

Conscious Reads: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Book Reviews, Charmed Botanicals, Conscious Reads

“When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it”

I recently finished reading an inspiring book by Paulo Coelho called The Alchemist. A journey filled with twists and turns, as one boy goes after the callings of his heart and pursues his personal legend.

Santiago lives his life as a shepherd. His parents wanted him to pursue a career as a priest but he prefers being a shepherd because it allows him to travel and connect with nature. One night he has a dream about going to visit the pyramids in Egypt and finding a hidden treasure. After he wakes up he believes the dream may be a message for him to embark on the journey to see if indeed there is a treasure awaiting him in the pyramids. He takes a risk, sells his flock of sheep and begins to travel.

As Santiago follows his heart he is led to different people and situations that guide him towards his goal. It is mentioned in the tale that “there is no such thing as coincidence” and that all things are connected. Santiago realizes this and pays attentions to all the events and signs that present themselves to him along the way.

Coelho mixes a powerful tale with wisdom in this novel, so much so that I found myself highlighting sentences and seeing the deeper meaning behind the words. I read the entire book in a few hours because I was so curious to see what happened next for the shepherd boy!

Filled with inspiration to listen to your heart, chase your dreams, and live your destiny, this book was delightfully magical. If you are looking for a quick read that’s intriguing and full of snippets of wisdom, this is a great choice.

Happy reading!

Review by Jen Moeller

Conscious Reads: The Passion Test

Book Reviews, Conscious Reads, Features

I just finished reading The Passion Test written by Janet and Chris Attwood. The purpose of this two-part book is to help you discover what your deepest passions are, and how to actively create a life filled with the things that bring you joy.

The first half is dedicated to discovering your passions. The way the authors do this is by having the reader make a list of events or things that would be happening when their life is ideal. Then after the list is completed the authors walk the reader through a test in order to find out which of the things listed are the most important. I love books that are interactive so I jumped at the opportunity to take this test! I made my list and used the formula to narrow down my ideal life situations, and I thought I would share with you what I wrote. Here is what my list looks like:

When my life is ideal I am:

Surrounded by like minded, conscious people who are on the spiritual path, and will support me on my journey.
Developing spiritually/meditating daily on my life, and awakening to the truth of who I really am.
Making my living by having fun, my “work” is play. I do what I love and love what I do.
Traveling the world, meeting new people, visiting places I’ve never been and taking my camera along with me to document my travels.
Involved in a soulful, blissful, loving relationship with a man aligned with my highest good.

After your list is complete the authors guide you through action steps to gain clarity on how to make your ideals a reality. I found the exercises to be enjoyable and easy to accomplish.

It is so important to dive deep into yourself and figure out what it is that really makes you happy. If someone asked you today what you are passionate about, would you be able to answer that question confidently or would it take you a while to think about it?

I have gotten to the point in my journey where I am clear on what I love I am now just learning how important it is to make these things the main focus of my life. I am also realizing that these interests seem to shift and change over time. This book stresses that taking this test is something you should do at least once every six months. I think it is important to do this “check-in” and see where you are on cultivating your joy path, and if any changes need to be made.

The second half of the book consists of examples of people who have taken the test and some wisdom they have learned along the way. They share their stories and give tips as well as advice on what you can do strengthen your confidence and start living your passion filled life.

If you are craving more clarity about who you really are and what makes you joyful, this is a great resource. Make a cup of tea, put on some relaxing music, grab a journal and take the test, you may find the results to be eye opening!

Written by Jen Moeller

Conscious Reads: Trust Your Vibes by Sonia Choquette

Book Reviews, Conscious Reads, Features

“The reason you listen to your vibes is to surrender control so that the Universe can step in and help you. God knows better than you know how to take action in most situations, so relax, get out of the way, and let it happen.” – Sonia Choquette

I recently finished reading a book by gifted intuitive Sonia Choquette called “Trust Your Vibes, Secret Tools for Six-Sensory Living.” This book is packed with 33 valuable tips and action steps on how to develop your intuition and live your life in a more conscious manner. The author takes you on a journey to learn what activities may be holding you back in developing your sixth sense, practices to overcome these blocks, and guidance on how to trust your instincts.

The beginning of the book offers a small quiz that the reader can take in order to evaluate how much they are already following their vibes. I found this to be helpful for me before reading further because I felt strongly that I was already allowing my intuition to help me through life, and this quiz was a conformation for me.

In the spiritual community we talk a lot about how important it is to take care of yourself, and your body. Eating clean foods, getting adequate sleep, grounding yourself and meditating are all essential, and the author covers these basic principles. She also discusses energy and how easy it is to tune into someone else’s consciously and unconsciously.

It is important to protect yourself and stay grounded in your own energy, especially when someone you are near is anxious or angry. A tip offered in the book states that if you do find yourself in this type of situation to block the energy from the other person by covering your solar plexus. You can do this by folding your arms across your belly. It occurred to me that this is something most of us do already and don’t even think about it. Children do this all the time. If they are not getting their way they cross their arms over their belly and pout. They are quite literally blocking the energy being sent in their direction!

The book also points out that art and writing are great tools to help develop your intuition. This is interesting: The author suggests writing down in a journal your intuitive hunches and “aha!” moments. This helps train your brain to be more aware of these occurrences. Once you begin doing this, you may notice the events may start happening more and more.

The truth is, spirit is always trying to guide you, it’s just that you may not have been getting the message! Art is also useful because it helps you “get out of your mind.” When actively engaging in a creative activity you enjoy like painting, cooking or gardening it is easy to lose track of time and connect to your heart. When you connect with these spaces inside of you, it allows your soul to express itself. This helps develop your sixth sense and also brings you joy.

Whether you are just embarking on your spiritual path or have been practicing for a while, this book has information that is valuable for both seekers. This is equally a good resource if you are just looking for an interesting read that will help you develop your intuition. The tips in this book are useful, practical, and easy to implement into your daily life!

Happy Reading!

Review written by Jen Moeller