Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Spiritual Thinker: Marianne Williamson

A modern approach to destiny
Source: California Psychics

Internationally acclaimed spiritual author and lecturer Marianne Williamson has written nine New Age books to date - including four #1 New York Times bestsellers. She has lectured on metaphysical topics all over the world, and is a minister in the Unity church.

She also founded Project Angel Food (a meals-on-wheels service for homebound people with debilitating diseases such as AIDS), and she co-founded The Peace Alliance, which campaigns for legislation to establish a U.S. Department of Peace.

She gained worldwide fame after Oprah endorsed her book, A Return to Love, during a show in 1992. The book is about Williamson's experiences as a teacher of A Course in Miracles, a channeled work by Dr. Helen Schucman and Dr. William Thetford that combines many of the principles of Christianity, Eastern philosophies, mysticism and psychology. Such themes include the tug-of-war between God and ego, knowledge and perception, truth and illusion. Currently, she hosts a weekly radio show on Oprah and Friends, and a daily podcast called MiracleThought on Oprah.com.

Looking at all she has accomplished, one would think she was born with her destiny laid out in front of her. Not so. She floundered early on with an identity crisis and low self-esteem, which propelled her into a series of incompatible relationships and temporary jobs, including an unsuccessful stint as a jazz singer in New York.

In the 1970s she discovered A Course in Miracles, and everything changed. This discipline helped define her spiritual life, and it gave her a sense of purpose. Let's explore her astrology chart, to see where her exceptional spiritual focus comes from.

Williamson was born in Houston, Texas, on July 8, 1953. The focal point of her chart is Uranus, the sign of enlightenment, brotherhood and individuality. Although she has Sun and Venus in Cancer, conjunctions to Uranus give the normally home-centered sign an undeniable penchant for personal growth. Uranus also lends her an unconventional personality that craves freedom - she is individualistic, and dislikes being confined by tradition.

Cancer is ruled by the Moon - it's the sign of emotions, femininity and motherhood. Although Williamson was married briefly and has a daughter from another relationship, she doesn't share the domestic focus so common to Cancers. Still, the sign shows up in other ways. Her book, Emma & Mommy Talk to God, advocates nourishing children's souls through spiritual principles. In A Woman's Worth, Williamson offers insights about the modern feminine path. Other books focus on intimacy, and on healing emotional issues. As for her creativity, Mercury in dramatic Leo bestowed the gift of storytelling upon her. Williamson's books have a compelling personal quality that comes from both the Cancer and the Leo placements.

Another focal point in Williamson's chart is Neptune, which squares the Cancer placements. Neptune is the planet of spirituality and oneness. The center of Williamson's teachings is faith in a higher power, the power of prayer - and loving oneself and others without judgment. These are all Neptunian themes.

Neptune is also the planet of delusion. Williamson's lack of purpose and identity were the result of an afflicted Neptune. Great spiritual focus can overcome the negative effects of this tricky planet, and Williamson is an excellent example of what can happen when one embraces the positive energy of Neptune. Also, her Moon in practical Capricorn counteracts the nebulous effects of Neptune, by giving her some emotional grounding.

As for romance, an unconventional love life suits her perfectly. With such a strong Uranus, she undoubtedly prefers to be independent. Venus in Cancer often associates love with motherhood -and in 1990 Williamson became a single mother to daughter India Emmaline. Because Cancer rules nourishment, Project Angel Food is also the perfect outlet for her nurturing instincts.

Mars in Scorpio indicates an extremely strong will. Williamson can appear temperamental and uncooperative at times, especially when she feels strongly about something. She's stubborn, determined and deeply emotional. She refers to herself as "the bitch of God." Mars in Scorpio also gives her tremendous healing power, and the ability to help others transform their lives.

In A Return to Love, Williamson proclaims that we don't fear our inadequacies as much as we do our spiritual power. She advises us to share who we truly are: "And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same."

Let your own light be an inspiration to others.

What is your ultimate spiritual journey? Get insight in a psychic reading today. Call 1.800.573.4830 or click here now.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Where in Gorlovka Donetsk Ukraine was this photo taken? Have ... on Twitpic

Lions - Dimitrova Boulevard? Gorlovka, Donetsk, Ukraine
Львы - Димитрова, бульвар? Горловка, Донецк, Украина

Need a Better Partner? Let go to let love in

Source: California Psychics

You can't make a relationship work all by yourself. If you're the one putting in all the effort, then it just won't last. It takes two to tango. And if there's only one person on the dance floor, it's time to find another partner, says Darlene ext. 9563.

This was the lesson she shared with Mary (not her real name), a 32-year-old writer from Los Angeles who had decided to call on a whim for some strength and support. "I am addicted to a man," she confessed, with some embarrassment. "We've been in a relationship for three years, but the relationship has changed dramatically. At first Spence (not his real name) was pursuing me, but now he really isn't committed. I only see him every two weeks."

Mary was sick of feeling like an emotional yo-yo. She wanted help. Darlene, who has been giving professional readings for 25 years, asked Mary to repeat his name three times.

"I could tell right away that Spence wasn't an easy man. He was a handful- a pussycat one day, and a vicious leopard the next," she explained. Darlene also confirmed that he was emotionally unavailable. She could also detect a streak of anger toward women, which she believed stemmed from his relationship with his mother. And he had a hard time communicating - deep down inside, he wasn't happy with himself.

"Don't I know it," Mary retorted. Darlene had described her lover to a T.

Mary had attracted an angry man who was unable to express his emotions. And yet, recalls Darlene, they had incredible chemistry. "She was truly addicted to him. Every few weeks she would expel him from her life, and then she'd fall off the love-wagon. The attraction was that strong." Darlene went on to tell her that Spence had closed himself off to her, and didn't have the emotional tools to change. Spence loved her, but didn't have what it took to grow in a spiritual way.

"But he keeps coming around - he must want me," Mary suggested.

"Good heavens! I have to say that I believe the cards rather than what people say. This is your life, and I don't believe you are getting what you deserve," Darlene told her emphatically. The line got really quiet, all of a sudden.

Darlene continued, telling her client had that she had major abandonment issues, and that she was playing them out with Spence. Instead of realizing that she was wasting her time, she kept trying to make amends and "fix" things.

As the conversation progressed, Mary revealed that she had indeed tried her best. She had gone to Al-Anon to learn not to control him (or his drinking habits), she had put up with his impetuous nature, and she had repeatedly forgiven his negative comments. Enough was enough. How long was she going to waste on this guy? she finally asked herself - and Darlene. What did he give her back besides great sex and a few laughs?

Darlene strongly suggested that Mary let the relationship go. It wasn't going to be over until she stood up for herself. Spence was content with seeing her occasionally, just for sex. The psychic added that she saw the possibility of Mary meeting a new man on the horizon, but the timing would be off unless she made space in her heart to love again. She also suggested that Mary read Ask & It Is Given by Esther and Jerry Hicks.

It took a few more failed attempts but eventually Mary cut Spence out of her life - cold turkey. She worked hard not to call him, text him or respond to his emails. She even went to Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous, per Darlene's advice. Mary kept in touch with Darlene, and read the book she had suggested. It took six months, but she let him go and made space in her heart. In time, she could clearly see that they were not a good match, and that he'd been stringing her along.

"And then one night she met another man on the dance floor," Darlene relates happily. "He is just the complete opposite of her ex - giving, open, spiritual and mature. Fortunately, she had healed her heart and was able to open up to him . . . So, now she has an actual partner to shimmy through life with."

Need help removing an emotional block? Get a psychic reading to help clear your way. Call 1.800.573.4830 or click here now.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Weekend Box Office Ranking (US) July 3rd - July 5th weekend

1 (new) Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs / YouTube - Ice Age 3 - Dawn of the Dinosaurs ...
Directed by Carlos Saldanha, Michael Thurmeier and starring Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary, Queen Latifah, Simon Pegg - The sub zero heroes are back. Scrat is still trying to nab the ever elusive nut, while maybe finding true love. Manny and Ellie await the birth of their mini-mammoth. Diego the saber toothed tiger wonders if he’s growing too soft and Sid the sloth gets into trouble when he creates his own makeshift family by hijacking some dinosaur eggs. On a mission to rescue the hapless Sid, the gang ventures into... (20th Century Fox Distribution)

2 (1) Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen / YouTube - Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen Official HD ...
Directed by Michael Bay and starring Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, John Turturro, Isabel Lucas and Ramon Rodriguez - Sam Witwicky again joins with the Autobots against their sworn enemies, the Decepticons. (Paramount Pictures)

3 (new) Public Enemies / YouTube Public Enemies Movie Review
Directed by Michael Mann and starring Johnny Depp, Christian Bale, Marion Cotillard, Channing Tatum, David Wenham - No one could stop John Dillinger and his gang. No jail could hold him. His charm and audacious jailbreaks endeared him to almost everyone -- from his girlfriend Billie Frechette to an American public who had no sympathy for the banks that had plunged the country into the Depression. But while the adventures of Dillinger' gang -- later including Baby Face Nelson and Alvin Karpis -- thrilled many, J.... (Universal Pictures)

4 (2) The Proposal / YouTube The Proposal Movie Trailer teaser-trailer.com
Directed by Anne Fletcher and starring Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Denis O'Hare, Malin Akerman, Mary Steenburgen - A book editor is forced to marry her male assistant in order to stay in the country. When they travel to Alaska to meet his family, the new couple has to fake their way through a surprise wedding thrown by his parents. (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)

5 (3) The Hangover / YouTube - The Hangover Movie Trailer New!
Directed by Todd Phillips and starring Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Heather Graham, Justin Bartha - Two days before his wedding, Doug and his three friends drive to Las Vegas for a blow-out bachelor party they'll never forget. But, in fact, when the three groomsmen wake up the next morning, they can't remember a thing. For some reason, they find a tiger in the bathroom and a six-month-old baby in the closet of their suite at Caesars Palace. The one thing they can't find is Doug. With no clue as to... (Warner Bros. Pictures Distribution)

6 (4) Up / YouTube - UP HERE - UNCENSORED full version
Directed by Pete Docter Bob Peterson and starring Edward Asner, Jordan Nagai, Christopher Plummer, Delroy Lindo and John Ratzenberger - At age 78, life seems to have passed Carl Fredricksen by, until a twist of fate (and a persistent 8-year old named Russell) gives him a new lease on life. (Buena Vista Pictures Distribution)

7 (5) My Sister's Keeper / YouTube - My Sisters Keeper - Official Trailer [HD]
Directed by Nick Cassavetes and starring Cameron Diaz, Alec Baldwin, Abigail Breslin, Jason Patric, Thomas Dekker (II) - After their daughter is stricken with leukemia, a couple conceives a younger sister who can provide a donor match, but the family is torn apart when, after years of medical procedures, the healthy younger sibling sues her parents for the right to decide how her body is used. (Warner Bros. Pictures Distribution)

8 (7) The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3 / YouTube - The Taking of Pelham One Two Three ...
Directed by Tony Scott and starring Denzel Washington, John Travolta, James Gandolfini, Gbenga Akinnagbe, Brian Haley - Four ruthless hijackers take over a New York City subway train and hold the passengers for ransom. They threaten to shoot one each minute until a ransom is fully paid. (Sony Pictures Releasing)

9 (6) Year One / YouTube - Year One - Official Trailer [HD]
Directed by Harold Ramis and starring Jack Black, Michael Cera, Oliver Platt, David Cross, Hank Azaria - When a couple of lazy hunter-gatherers are banished from their primitive village, they set off on an epic journey through the ancient world. (Sony Pictures Releasing)

10 (9) Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian / YouTube - Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (2009 ...
Directed by Shawn Levy and starring Ben Stiller, Amy Adams, Owen Wilson, Hank Azaria, Robin Williams - Ben Stiller returns to the role of night watchman Larry Daly in this sequel to the 2006 family film NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM. This adventure takes the action to Washington D.C, where things at the Smithsonian aren't quite as quiet as one (20th Century Fox)

Utah Vengeance

(last weekends ranking - in brackets)

Weekly LoveCast Passion and confidence escalate

by Cortney Litwin
Source: California Psychics

Tuesday's Full Moon eclipse in Capricorn supports commitment, but a Neptune affliction to Venus and Mars fosters unrealistic expectations and mixed messages. Midweek is all about friendship and group gatherings, but the weekend favors sharing your spiritual vision - and adding a touch of fantasy to spice up your sex life! Best day for love: Wednesday.

Week of July 6 - 12, 2009

Cancer: The Full Moon at the start of the week energizes interactions with your partner, or heightens your chances of attracting someone new. Shared ideas can deepen love on Wednesday. Reminiscing about the past or discussing your spiritual views inspires romance, from midweek through Friday. Love is mystifying on Saturday, and delightfully sinful on Sunday!

Leo: Shared work or lending a helping hand inspires love during the Full Moon at the start of the week. Just be sure you're communicating clearly. Flirting during a group activity makes passion soar on Wednesday! Friends bring fun and insights midweek through Friday, so plan a get-together. Focus on a deeper heart connection to inspire romance this weekend.

Virgo: Romance gets a dose of sizzle from the Full Moon at the beginning of the week. On the downside, a misunderstanding may be at work. Your sense of humor attracts admirers on Wednesday, so show off your wit! Analyzing past and present relationships will prompt a breakthrough by Friday. Head and heart clash on Saturday, but Sunday is soulful.

Libra: The Full Moon favors entertaining at home, or just enjoying a homey date with your lover. Create an enticing atmosphere. Passion escalates during a glorious round of flirting on Wednesday! Use your creative talents to rev up romance from the middle of the week through Friday. Love seems irrational on Saturday. Use your imagination to fire things up on Sunday.

Scorpio: Flirting is on fire during the Full Moon, but avoid game-playing while you're having fun. Talking about your emotional and sexual desires on Wednesday can take your love life to the next level! Analyzing romance sheds light on the future of your love by Friday. Be creative in the boudoir to make passion escalate this weekend, especially on Sunday.

Sagittarius: Tuesday's Full Moon illuminates (and perhaps challenges) what you value most in relationships, and in other areas of your life. Hiding the truth, however, can derail love - so be honest. Speaking from the heart will accelerate things on Wednesday through Friday. A homey date in an exotic atmosphere revs up the weekend!

Capricorn: Tuesday's Full Moon in your sign heightens your powers of attraction all week, but you'll need to be clear about your intentions. Surprising your sweetie with a night out will ignite some fireworks on Wednesday, or possibly Friday. Focus on being best friends, too. A mix-up can upset your plans on Saturday. Flirting sets passion ablaze on Sunday!

Aquarius: Talking about the past can heighten the connection between you and your sweetie during the Full Moon at the start of the week. Yet you may feel elusive about commitment. Your charisma kicks into high gear from Wednesday through Friday, while your intuition is especially strong. Sharing the guidance of your heart will attract and inspire love on the weekend.

Pisces: Socializing with friends energizes you during Tuesday's Full Moon. It's also time to be clear about what you want in love - and express it. In the middle of the week your psychic ability can illuminate the future of your love life. You're especially sensitive (and alluring) on Friday. A miscommunication is likely to derail love on Saturday, but you're irresistible on Sunday!

Aries: The Full Moon can make you cautious about love at the beginning of the week, when work or other responsibilities may interrupt your social plans. Wednesday is a good time to discuss your dreams for the future. Look for romance during an outing with friends, midweek through Friday. An enticing, sexy environment revs up romance this weekend, especially on Sunday!

Taurus: You might feel a tug-of-war between your career and your personal life at the start of the week, because of the Full Moon - but don't let your practical side overpower your aspirations. A colleague offers insights on Wednesday. Romance can be found during a career activity from the middle of the week through Friday. Friends instigate a romantic interlude this weekend.

Gemini: The Full Moon energizes intimacy at the beginning of the week, if mixed messages don't unhinge your plans. Romance escalates on Wednesday, when your brainpower makes you irresistible - so flirt intelligently! A trip or spiritual activity can inspire a romantic interlude midweek through Friday. Use your intuition and sensitivity to inspire love this weekend.

Is your love life inspiring? Get a psychic reading for more insight. Call 1.800.573.4830 or click here now.

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Music For Meditation Sounds to enhance your soul

by Calliope Hart
Source: California Psychics

Music for meditation can add an inspiring element to your mindful day
or spiritual practice, whether you're looking for a way to take your
breath work to a deeper state of awareness, or are new to meditation
and need help aligning with your higher self.

Through the ages, sacred music and soulful sounds have played a part in spiritual meditative traditions all over the world - they help to bring us closer to a feeling of universal oneness. From the calming, soothing and spiritually stirring sounds of monastery bells and zen-related wind instruments and on to the soulful chants of Tibetan and Buddhist monks - right up to the modern nonmelodic strains of electronic music, specifically created to vibrate with the cellular experiences of inner peace and well-being - these sounds have long enhanced the practice of meditation.

Call and response
The ambient sounds of music for meditation help you focus on your breathing, reduce stress, and slow down your heartrate - even your brainwaves - to help you turn your attention inward. "The power of music to induce or enhance deep states of relaxation has been strongly supported by scientific studies, dating back to the 1800s" reports psychologist John Ortiz, the author of The Tao of Music. Ortiz points out that when you choose meditation music that resonates with your inner being, it can help you quiet your mind more quickly and deeply - and help you stay centered much more easily.

However, not just any music will do. The best music to "Om" by is slower than your usual iPod fare. It doesn't feature a melody, or lyrics that you can follow. Unlike most song lyrics, chanting songs are monotone - or simply vocalized prayers that allow you to be in harmony with the prayer, and not worry where the melody is going.

If you're not familiar with the wide variety of meditation CDs that are out there, here's a little insight into some of the most sought-after compilations:

Meditation for beginners
Some of our favorite gurus, such as Deepak Chopra, Andrew Weil, Wayne Dyer and Eckhart Tolle have guided mediation CDs that move you into a deeper consciousness, and to help you align with your higher self. Gamma Meditations, one of Dr. Jeffrey Hunter's Brainwave Series, incorporates mesmerizing sonic sounds and relaxing meditation suggestions, which are at just the right frequency to activate a natural state of attunement with the universe.

Inner peace music
One of the most prolific producers of contemplative music is Steven Halpern, whose Chakra Suite is one of the best selling meditation CDs ever. Try his Relaxation Suite, with its "Mello Cello" and "Dharma Duet" tracks. The CD features melodic sounds of the cello, flute, piano and harp. Considered the pioneer in the field of effective soundscapes for meditation, Halpern has been creating electronic musical experiences as a background for heightening self-awareness in meditation, relaxation, sleep - and even driving more mindfully - for 33 years.

If electronic music doesn't relax you, there are the classic zen sounds of Riley Lee on the shakuhachi flute. The simple bamboo instrument featured on Music for Zen Meditation is a more traditional accompaniment to meditation, with its uncomplicated, soothing pieces with titles such as "Tranquil, In Time Suspended," and "Echo of the Sacred."

Spiritual chants
The sounds and chants of Tibetan monks, with their gongs and singing bowls, appeal to many. But the spiritual tradition of yoga has also brought about a long list of chanting chanteuses, including new-age chart topper Deva Premal. Moola Mantra, one of her many popular CDs, is a unique version of the Sanskrit mantra, accompanied by Indian fusion sounds. Brand new in new-age stores is Kundalini Meditation Music, featuring seven 10- to 14-minute chants. Each features different blessings - from prosperity to healing.

If you're a newbie to meditating with music, choose a CD - or even just one track - that you can play on repeat. It should be one that you find deeply soothing. You might want to begin your meditation with this progressive relation exercise. If you use headphones it might make it easier for the sounds to help you relax.

Sit comfortably, and breathe in and out slowly and deeply. Then allow the meditative sounds to enter your feet. Release your tension by focusing on the music. Move up the body from the feet to your head, repeating the entire exercise and always allowing the sound frequencies to relax your body and open your mind. When you have completed the exercise, continue to breathe in the sounds in the clearness of your mind.

Whether you download the music of the ocean, or listen to slowed-down classics, New Age CDs with mainstream appeal like Enya - or the vibrational sounds of echoing Tibetan bowls - to play as background music to your meditation, choose music that you personally find calming, centering and reflective. These meditative soundscapes also work well to reduce stress while you are working, or to set a serene mood around the house. And many, once you're comfortably tucked in to bed, will lull you right to sleep!

What moves you? Let a psychic offer guidance. Call 1.800.573.4830 or click here now.

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Venus and Mars in Gemini Your mind and heart meld

Weekly Horoscopes
Saturday 4th July - Saturday 11th July - Saturday 18th July- Saturday 25th July

Source: California Psychics

Flirting and other lively talks kick into high gear when Venus and Mars enter witty Gemini this month. On July 5, 2009, Venus transits into the sign of communications, with Mars following on the 11th. It's time to express what's on your mind and in your heart!

As the relationship planet, Venus inspires expressions of love, so now is an excellent time to articulate your feelings to your significant other (or to anyone else you care about). Venus in Gemini can make it easier to discuss troubling issues in your relationship. So whether you've been procrastinating bringing up a difficult subject, or just need to express your love and appreciation, this influence will help you get your ideas across with grace and clarity.

What's more, because Gemini rules travel, you might find yourself enjoying a romantic interlude while on a trip. If you're already paired, a trip for two can rev up the romance between you. And since Venus is all about love, romantic and otherwise, traveling with friends can bring joy as well.

Mars, on the other hand, is all about passion. It energizes whatever sign it's transiting through. Not surprising, Mars in Gemini takes sexy repartee to a whole new level. You can use this influence to heat up the sheets with some verbal naughtiness (or at least cleverness). A little humor in the boudoir will keep your relationship fresh.

But don't stop with pillow talk - promoting your ideas at work is favored as well. Gemini is logical, clear-headed and straightforward. As such, it's a good time to enter into discussions that require a factual approach and step-by-step analysis. Just watch out for argumentativeness, the downside of Mars in Gemini. Also, Mars can accelerate your mental energy to the point of exhaustion. Too much of a good thing will throw you off balance. So if you find yourself suffering from brain-drain, try taking frequent breaks - and get physical. Taking a quick stroll outside the office or working out at the gym during your lunch break will help you stay grounded, focused and energetic.

To get more specific, find out how you can capitalize on Venus and Mars in Gemini by reading your Sun and Ascendant signs below.

Air signs
Gemini, Libra and Aquarius will experience increased perceptiveness, clarity and creativity. Gemini will be empowered to express their needs and desires in their personal life. Libra will experience heightened intuition about the future, so discussing where a relationship is headed can bring clarity. Aquarius will find creativity in everything, which can inspire heartfelt words that deepen love.

Fire signs
Aries
, Leo and Sagittarius will feel the urge to act on their ideas, especially in social situations. Aries will find their power of persuasion heightened in both romantic and professional pursuits. Leo can attract personal and professional opportunities by networking during friendly gatherings and community events. Sagittarius will be motivated to improve communications in a relationship, or to use their humor and braininess to attract a new partner.

Earth signs
Taurus
, Virgo and Capricorn can tap into brainpower to accelerate prosperity. Taurus may discover a creative or practical idea that opens a financial door. Virgo can enhance their career by promoting ideas and networking with colleagues. Capricorn will be empowered to promote ideas at work and can find romance through philanthropic and health-related activities.

Water signs
Cancer
, Scorpio and Pisces will be focusing on intimate ties and healing the past. Cancer will accelerate their aspirations by examining and talking about the past - including past lives - and letting go of negativity. Scorpio can deepen intimacy by healing old emotional wounds and talking about sexual needs. Pisces will be especially creative at home and can find opportunities through family members.

However you choose to express yourself this month, strive to share your mind, heart and soul with those you care about the most.


Do you follow your head or your heart? Let a psychic guide you. Call 1.800.573.4830 or click here now.

Friday, July 3, 2009

Independence in Love 5 tips to not lose yourself

Weekly Horoscopes
Saturday 4th July - Saturday 11th July - Saturday 18th July- Saturday 25th July - Saturday 27th June

by S. K. Smith

Source: California Psychics

Maintaining a sense of individuality is a common problem in most relationships, and there are a zillion reasons why. For starters, you and your partner spend so much free time together that your lives begin to blend. Then there's the reality that as time passes, you may forget what you did before you were together.

Even if you do remember all your old pastimes, your "you time" takes a backseat to shared "us time." After all, there are couple commitments that come into play (dinner parties, work events, household chores). Nevermind the fact that at a certain point, it's just easier to plop down on the sofa together than it is to motivate yourself on your own. The trouble is, by merging completely, not only do couples lose their senses of individuality, their happiness levels decrease… and their relationships suffer.

Remember, it takes two complete halves to make one whole. So if either or both of you are struggling to remember who you are or what makes you happy beyond the confines of your partnership, it's time for a reality check. Maintaining autonomy is essential to the success of any pairing. Try these tips to help you do just that.

Your friends love you...
Sadly, one of the first things to happen as we pair off is that our friends (particularly the single ones) can be forgotten. They fall by the wayside in favor of spending every waking non-work moment with our new lovers. Inevitably, forgetting your friends will fail you. Humans are social beings and we need each other to commiserate and identify with in good times and bad. Sure, your mate can provide most things a friend can, but no one person can be all things to anyone. You're bound to have things in common with your friends that you don't with your mate… even if it's just shared experience. Besides, if you have no one else in your life to hang out with, not only will you and your amour eventually run out of topics to talk about, you'll find your life much less fulfilling!

Whether it's going out for dinner, grabbing after work drinks or hitting the beach/bookstore on a Saturday afternoon, set aside in-person time for your friends. Emails and phone calls count as contact, sure, but when it comes to fostering a sense of personal satisfaction and history, the power of face-to-face interaction cannot be overstated!

Nix neediness
Sometimes, we worry that if we're not with our partner, they'll forget about us - or worse, cheat! If these are your feelings, however, your partner's not the problem - your insecurity is. Being too needy in a relationship (demanding too much time and attention, denying your partner - and yourself - the time to maintain a balanced life, questioning their every move), only leads to disaster. It creates an imbalance of power that leaves you feeling dependent on your mate for your happiness. Believe it or not, you're not in the driver's seat when you're dictating every moment… you're giving fear the upper hand. On that note, it may seem counterintuitive but…

Give your partner space
Everybody appreciates a little space every once in awhile to do whatever it is we feel like doing. And believe it or not - sometimes those things are best done solo. A hot, relaxing bath, a sappy, cry-your-eyes out movie rental, a video game marathon or an adult-ed class… whatever it is that rejuvenates them, give your partner the space to do it on a regular basis. Meanwhile, use that time to do something you enjoy, too.

Take care of you!
We all know that a healthy mind and a healthy body go together with a healthy spirit, but figuring out a way to attain all three can seem like a tough proposition. The good news is, every little bit helps - and addressing any of the three components actually contributes to the others, too.

If you want to boost your self-confidence and motivation (in and out of the relationship) start with the stuff you can control. Eat well and commit to some kind of fitness regimen. Not only will it make you feel vibrant and sexy on the outside, it will help you feel strong and capable, which encourages you to do things on your own when you might otherwise steer clear of solo ventures. Perhaps best of all, it'll enhance your libido and drive your partner wild!

Max motivation
Finally, one of the most common explanations for personal dissatisfaction in or out of a relationship is a lack of goals. If we don't have a destination (or a series of them, since arriving at one only leads to another), the relationship can feel pointless. People thrive when they have a purpose. So take some time to sit down with yourself and set some personal goals. Then set about achieving them. Doing so will not only provide tremendous self-satisfaction (even when you have missteps and have to start again), but it will allow you to bring more to the table in your relationship.

Likewise, encourage your partner to do the same and enlist each other for encouragement. Two active halves, after all, will only make a more solid, deeply satisfied whole.

Do you need to be more independent? Let a psychic guide you. Call 1.800.573.4830 or click here now.