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Spirit Junkie: Gabrielle Bernstein


She’s caught the attention of luminaries in the wellness world, such as Oprah Winfrey, Deepak Chopra, Dr Oz and Wayne Dyer, and after chatting with Gabrielle Bernstein, we can see why!

The effervescent New York Times bestselling author, speaker and spiritual leader is full of pithy – and practical - insights on everything from overcoming fear and zapping negative thoughts, to tuning in to your intuition and mastering manifestation. Out in Australia this January for her Spirit Junkie Australia tour, we predict you’ll be hearing more about her.

Can you tell us a little bit about you and what set you on the spiritual path?
I was brought up by a hippie mum and was taught to meditate as a child. I turned my back on it for many years, and then in my early twenties I got very addicted to the party scene, my career, drugs and alcohol. At 25 I got sober and made a commitment to living a spiritual life. These days, I have an awesome life! I’m very grateful for what I have shifted in my life, and what I can enjoy today.

You are known for making spirituality sassy and accessible. Do you think there is a shift going on right now where people are increasingly interested in nurturing their spiritual selves?
Yes, without a doubt! Given the uncertain times we live in, there is a longing for a sense of safety and greater knowing, and that has sparked a desire for spiritual awareness. Also, this new generation coming through is very enthusiastic about creating a life of freedom, which is a benefit of being on a spiritual journey.

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When you say ‘freedom’, what does that mean?
Freedom from fear. A life that is fearless in the sense of showing up for your highest intention and purpose, rather than being held back by limiting beliefs. I think that the first step to achieving this is to be mindful and aware of your behavior patterns, then to choose to see things differently and open up to creating change. You have to commit to reprogram your beliefs for the better.

We know it’s important to think positive, but this can be challenging sometimes! How can we make it a habit?
We can’t always think positive thoughts, but we do have the power to choose again in any moment. We can look at ourselves and say ‘Oh, there’s that ugly thought again, I’m going to forgive that thought and choose again.’

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Many of us are stuck in our heads most of the time. How can we strengthen our connection to our intuition?
One simple tip is to move more. As we start to physically move, we create an energy shift whereby we begin to relax, and the best way to hear the voice of your intuition is to be in a relaxed state. Another thing you can try is the one minute breath: simply breathe in for 20 seconds, hold your breath for 20 seconds and release for 20 seconds. Just connecting to your breath in that way will bring you to a stillness that will help you connect with your intuition. When we make that relationship with our intuition our number one priority, everything else begins to flow naturally and fall into place.

Speaking of things falling into place, what’s your advice for mastering manifestation (that is, creating your ideal reality through the power of positive thought)?
It’s important to recognise that we need to co-create with the universe. We can’t just say ‘I want this and it’s happening for me’. We also have to ask for guidance, listen for direction and then take action. We can ask for guidance through prayers, listen through our meditation and ask our intuition to guide us. Also, chill out! It’s in that relaxed state that we are most receptive. Trust that you will receive exactly what you need in the time that it is appropriate for you to receive it.

What about your personal wellness rituals? Do you have any that you simply won’t go a day without?
I won’t go a day without meditating and moving in some way. I won’t go a day without forgiving myself or praying. I also won’t go a day without abstaining from sugar – quitting sugar has given me more energy, clearer skin and I’m calmer too.

For more spiritual inspiration from Gabby, head to her website or grab a copy of her latest book, May Cause Miracles: A 40-Day Guidebook of Subtle Shifts for Radical Change and Unlimited Happiness (Hay House, $18.95)