animism – The Cauldron Goddess

Spring Equinox Wisdom & Oracle Reading!

Welcome to the season of Spring Equinox, also known as Ostara, derived from the Germanic Goddess Eostre, or Alban Eilir (Welsh for Light of the Earth) in Druidic tradition.

This is the season of new beginnings! It is also the astrological New Year, as on March 20th, the sun enters fire sign Aries. The energy helps us to access our inner courage, trust, raw energy and faith that pushes us out of our comforts zones to grow- internally and externally. The flame within us is gaining strength, urging us to take bold steps forward in our personal growth and towards manifesting our dreams- whether they be big or small, the dreams we begin to nourish now have the energy of the earth and cosmos behind them. We don’t need to have a full, complete idea of what we want, even just a feeling of ‘yes’ or ‘no’ sense within us we can follow to take us in the right direction. We can trust our instinct to follow what energizes and feels like a ‘yes’!

The first shoots of new life beneath the earth are drawn to the surface by the warmth of the sun, and push through to greet it! The shoot trusts their instincts and the warmth pulling it up. It carries the strength necessary to forge a path forward, breaking ground and eventually blossoming into who they are meant to be.

Likewise, we can reach for what draws us, warms us, and let it evolve us.

As we harness the emerging energy of spring, we will find it easier to make positive changes in our lives. Sometimes though, we may run up against challenges or obstacles, and get frustrated. But instead of forcing through, getting impatient, or giving up, we can take a moment to breathe, and come fully into the moment. There may be ways we haven’t noticed, options we were to narrow-minded to perceive. We must open up to all that is available to us. We may need to cultivate a bit more patience and give ourselves more time than we originally planned. Some dreams are meant to unfold over more time. Some dreams take a long term commitment. Aries season will teach us what is doable now and what will take time. We may not be able to act on everything yet. But the first steps can definitely be taken.

We’re meant to trust the desire within us to pull us forward, and just take it one step at a time, being open to learning through the process.

Is there an area of your life where you are being called to make a change, take a step forward or try something new? Go for it. There’s no such thing as mistakes, only learning. Let this time be your chance to experiment and follow your heart. Feelings of vulnerability or self-doubt can accompany this time, so honor your tenderness with love. Know that you are loved and protected by Spirit through this process. The Earth Mother each spring gives her all in her offerings, knowing not everything will blossom or be harvested. The important thing is making the effort and trusting that what is meant to grow, will!

We can think back to bulb planting season- the autumn, and think about what has been incubating deep below the surface, resting, gaining strength, nourishment and waiting in our lives since then. This may be something that comes up to grow and flourish this season. The winter season may have clarified what no longer serves us and what inspiration or spiritual beliefs carry us through hard times. We can build on that inspiration in spring.

The wonderful thing about the equinox is that light and dark are in balance. This helps us see situations with a balanced clarity and wholeness- both our inner and outer needs can be addressed with greater ease. It is a strong time for decision making as we can better focus our energy on what we really want and take the necessary steps to get there.

It is a great time for trying a new diet or exercise regimen, picking up a new hobby or craft, a new area of study, creating career and project goals or meeting new people!

Ways to celebrate the Spring Equinox season:

Plant some seeds and grow your own plants (indoors still likely if you’re in Canada)
Buy fresh flowers to decorate with
Begin to write a plan of action for your vision or goals, take the first step
Create something new that energizes, inspires or speaks to your inner child
Try anything new! Read a new book, start a new health regimen, buy new clothing or adornment, take a class, meet new people,etc.
Get out for a walk in nature
Spring cleaning of the home and hearth
Connect with your Power- spiritual power through meditation, connection with deity or spirit guides, the divine energy flowing through your body through mind-body practice.
Cultivate your relationship with your plant and animal & allies- read my blog post on this.

Animal Allies for support:

At this time of year, as a time of volatility and change, I like to enlist the help of spirit allies to help midwife us through the process. I especially like to focus on the animal allies, because they carry that instinctual wisdom that we can emulate to help us step forward in our lives.

Is there an animal that’s been showing up for you lately? Or one that you feel drawn to or a deep connection with?

You may want to cultivate this relationship. Learn about them. How do they navigate challenges and survive? What do they eat? How do they create family or socialize? What senses do they rely on? What is their energy like? Most importantly, what qualities do they awaken within you?

If you want tips on connecting with animal and plant allies, you can read my latest blog on that here.

Also, if you are interested in celebrating the spring equinox and connecting with an animal ally and you are in or around Toronto, come to my in-person spring equinox circle on March 27th!

Spring Equinox Oracle Reading:

Speaking of Animal Allies, I invite you to choose an oracle card from the Animal Elders Oracle by Asha Frost & Hawlii Pichette!

First, take 3 deep breaths, calm, ground and centre yourself. Then ask- ‘what animal energy would be helpful for me to connect with now?’ Choose your card below and scroll down for the description!

Remember that number, and scroll down for the description! Words are of the deck’s author, Asha Frost.

Elder Heron- Practice Patience

Heron knows when to stick their long neck out and strike to hunt their food, and they know when to stand silently in the reeds. With an inherent trust in their knowing and heart, they follow their unique self-guidance, teaching us to do the same. You are asked to return to what you know to be true and release outside noise and opinions of those who surround you. Sometimes the path can seem like it moves at a slower pace, as you are asked to trust the flow of life and the inner stirrings of your soul.

Patience is indeed a virtue at this time, and you will soon see that listening to your wise inner voice brings immense joy and breathtaking beauty when you finally decide to spread your wings and soar. It’s a magnificent sight to see when Elder Heron finally takes flight with a fish caught in their beak- a journey that will be yours when you commit to patience and quiet listening.

Elder Heron Speaks: “Call on me when the world around you gets noisy and you are having a hard time discerning what is best for you. I am here to steady you and remind you that you can depend on yourself for wisdom and advice. It’s safe to slow down, trust, and be patient. Everything is unfolding at the perfect pace. When you are in doubt, I will return you to the truth that your heart always knows.”

2. Loon- Dive Deep

Elder Loon is here to compassionately guide you to see what is hidden beyond the light, at the bottom among the reeds, so you can bring healing to it. This Elder gently swims around you, inviting you to meet what is rising from the depths of your being. Is there a part of your child self that needs to be seen? Or perhaps there’s a belief that you have inherited that can now be handed back to your ancestors? Loon journeys with you to gently unearth anger, grief or other pain that is ready to flow out of your heart and body.

Elder Loon reminds you that balance in your mind, body and spirit is available when you tend to what is calling from the inside. This might take more introspection than you are used to, but with this Elder’s help, you can move the layers of what no longer serves you out to the land and waters. Your old stories and feelings are sacred, and Elder Loon promises to hold them as such as they rise out of your being, like bubbles to the surface of the water.

Elder Loon Speaks: “Call upon me when the opportunity to dive deep summons you. I am adept at underwater hunting and can stabilize all that is ready to surface. With my help, this process can feel effortless as long as you welcome my medicine. I am deeply attuned to keeping your sacred waters clear and purified, so receive my song into your heart so I may be your ally.”

3. Elder Beaver- Remain Focused

Elder Beaver reminds you that they will never take on more work than they can handle; they simply complete the work that is required of them. Only when they hear water draining from their territory do they shore up the leaks. In this way, they are beautiful teachers of energy conservation. Let go of everything that may be distracting you or pulling you away from the task at hand. It’s time to focus and gather the resources that will create a secure foundation.

There is no time to procrastinate, as all of creation is here now, supporting you and cheering you on. Elder Beaver swims effortlessly through the waters, reminding you to clear out what is no longer essential to your life. You are asked to bring all your focus to your plan, channel your energy into your big dream, and go for it. It’s time to step it up and do the work that needs to be done. When you follow through, with Elder Beaver’s help, you will be able to marvel at what you have built and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Elder Beaver Speaks: “Invite me into your life when you need inspiration to move forward on the project you are holding in your heart. During this time, you need to be impeccable with where you are directing your energy. I am here to assist your strong desire to fulfill your vision. Intention and focus are the medicine I bring, and I promise to remind you to conserve your energy for what matters. There are times when we can forget to enjoy what we have built, so before you gather more branches and mud, my presence will encourage you to revel in the beauty of your creation.”

4. Elder Muskrat- Believe in Yourself

Elder Muskrat glides through the waters into your space today to remind you to believe in yourself. Are you stalled in your progress toward completing a project? Or maybe you have a huge dream and feel like you don’t have what it takes to succeed. If outside opinions have lodged in your heart or the words of the world have taken down your confidence, Elder Muskrat offers a steady dose of fortitude to prop you up.

Muskrat rustles up the reeds and ushers in your ancestors who have been watching your medicine walk. They stand in a circle with this Elder all around you, offering ripples of assurance and conviction. Elder Muskrat helps you to journey back to your original instructions where your creation story told you who you are. Just like the Muskrat had unwavering faith that they could save the earth, you too can believe in your ability to do whatever you desire.

Elder Muskrat Speaks: “When your soul is weary and you feel like the world has pushed you down, call upon me to help you rise to the surface. I will help to buoy your self-esteem and shake off outside voices and opinions. You carry enormous strength in your heart, and when you forget, you can lean on me to remind you that you are not powerless. You are the hero of your own story. Hold yourself in the same regard as your ancestors. Believe.”

5. Elder Moose- Honor Your Lineage

This Elder is a proud and powerful symbol of endurance and resilience, reminding you that your ancestors moved through so much and the medicine of their strength resides in you. This is a time of honoring, reconnection, and activating past and present healing. Elder Moose brings the ancient wisdom of those who came before them and asks you to say a prayer, build an altar or set an intention with your ancestral guides.

The old ones surround you closely as Elder Moose reminds you of the importance of where you came from, the medicine of your ancestral lands that formed you. Ancestors who held certain mastery and heightened abilities step forward, and you are flooded with that same vibration and gifts. With Moose’s towering bulk at your side, you are safe to unlock the secrets of the past so you can reclaim your brilliant future. And all of the ancestral spirits rejoice.

Elder Moose Speaks: “When the old ones speak through your dreams and their ancient ways of knowing rise through your bones, know that I am walking by your side. As a lineage keeper of the forest, I remind you that the stories that live within your blood are good medicine. Call upon me when you want to acknowledge the pain of the past in order to bring healing and reconnection. You are a future ancestor, and we need your rich wisdom.”

6. Elder Fox- Step up and out

Elder Fox asks you to notice where you might be choosing to shrink or draw attention away from yourself. Have you been putting others on pedestals and missing the incredible purpose you carry in this world? Staying in the background and supporting others on their mission is admirable; however, at this time you are asked to turn your attention and capacity back to your divine path.

This Elder reminds you that you have more resources than you know, and there will be opportunities coming your way to share them with the world. Get stealthy, like the Fox. Hold your head up high, and be on alert for invitations to shine your light. It’s time for the attention to be on you. Step out of your safe hiding spot and know that you carry deep intelligence and knowing. All you need to do is to take the next step and be seen; it’s your time.

Elder Fox Speaks: “I know that it can feel safer to stay behind the scenes and be protected by the shadows, but I’m here to tell you that the people who need your gifts are waiting. Call upon me when you need that push to step onto the stage of life and take up space in a more visible way. Grab onto my bushy tail when you feel like you aren’t enough, and let me lead you into the sunshine. Let those you’ve placed on pedestals be your mirrors, and rise to meet them.”

7. Elder Hummingbird- Remember the Magic

Elder Hummingbird calls you back into the magic of your child self when you held awe and wonder. Do you remember wishing on a star? How about the joy of blowing on a dandelion puff? The innocence of your child heart is asking to be remembered. You are invited to see how even though you’ve journeyed through the ups and downs of life, the spark of magic remains a part of you. Gifts and blessings are here to touch your life, and this Elder asks you to expand your capacity to receive them.

The fluttering of the Hummingbird’s wings is a miraculous sight to see, and with this delicate bird at your side, this same quick vibration is offered to you. Look for the magic all around, see the beauty that Mother Earth offers you, and open your heart to receive. The nectar is here to feed you, and the blessings of your life are about to bloom in a riot of kaleidoscopic color.

Elder Hummingbird Speaks: “Invoke my spirit when you have forgotten the magic of life, for I can fly in all directions and gather it from the past, present, and future. I flutter before you and expand your heart to remind you of your inherent worthiness to receive sweetness. I carry an incredible quality to remember the flowers that have nourished me, and I bring this memory medicine to you. I shall help you to recall the sparkle in your eyes and the hope in your spirit that you once held. Magic abounds.”

8. Elder Blue Jay- Speak Up

Blue Jay has a very distinctive call that echoes through the trees. It’s a call that commands attention and invites us to listen. A powerful mimic, this brilliant bird can even imitate a human’s voice. This Elder’s precise call reminds you that even if people might not be ready to hear your truth, your words are here to initiate change. There is medicine in speaking your truth and not swallowing what you know to be true simply to keep the peace.

The path of truth invites you to root fully in your integrity. It’s not always the easiest or most comfortable choice, but Elder Blue Jay can help you to dig deep and say what you mean, not just what you think others want to hear. When you share the wisdom that has been vibrating in your heart and soul, the whole world benefits. Trust the words that are waiting to be expressed, for they are blessings for all of creation.

Elder Blue Jay Speaks: “I carry powerful vocal medicine and offer it to you. Invoke me when you need assistance in bringing the words of your belly and heart to your lips and tongue. People may turn away from your truth, but your words will land for them when they are ready. My bright blue feathers activate your throat, opening the portal for your bold expression. Call upon me when you want to get your point across clearly. Once you know in your heart that you must speak, there is no going back.”

Did your card resonate? I hope it did!

Wishing you blessings of courage, self-love, passion, growth and new beginnings for this fiery season of Aries and Spring Equinox!

Serena

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How to Connect With Plant and Animal Allies

On the animistic path, we forge relationships with our non-human kin. This includes plants of all kinds, the land and elements, crystals, rocks, insects and of course, the animals. We may also cultivate relationships with our ancestors, spirit guides and other light beings and deities in the spirit world.

Like any relationship we would have with a human friend or loved one, these relationships require some energy, time and willingness to cultivate. Part of the challenge in doing this is that we are conditioned to take these beings for granted or see them as beings that don’t have the same capacity for relationship as a human. Or we may just not be sure how to foster this relationship, because it isn’t something we think we know or remember how to do. We’re afraid of ‘doing it wrong’. We may feel intimidated by the spirit world or think we need some special psychic powers to do this.

The truth is, all we need to do is remember what it was like to be a child, when we felt connected to everything. Kids naturally connect with nature kin and the spirit world very easily! We read fairy tales and watch shows of mythical beings as children and some of us still do as adults, because we know they aren’t silly, but hold truth. We are taught to un-learn our natural connection to the spirits of land and spirit, separating us from our original soul family.

We simply need to remember when we felt the ladybug was our friend, the tree was a wise grandfather, and the wind was whispering to us things we needed to hear. We need to remember to trust the feeling of awe, mystery and magick that lies in the world around us. That remembering of not being alone and that there is a world of loving, sentient beings that we can connect with any time we think we’re alone.

Animism reminds us that we are all connected- to all other beings, whether they have an earthly body or not. We are one and just because their energy is a bit different than ours, doesn’t mean they are less powerful. On the contrary, these beings often carry a purer connection to Source because they don’t have the same ego/mind that humans contend with.

Much of the spiritual path is remembering things we already knew innately as children (and perhaps past lives) and releasing many of the things we were taught at school, at home and in the world.

Beginning a Relationship With our Non-Human Kin:

So how do we start? In my opinion, there’s a lot of old Christian/Patriarchal beliefs that have tainted our innate connection to the spirit world with power hierarchies and rank, bringing issues of worthiness and self-trust to individuals on the seeking path.

We feel we need tons of special training, the permission from an ‘expert’ or high priest/ess, elder, shaman, etc to access our innate heart connection to spirit, but that’s not true.

Any spiritual leader worthy of learning from will remind you that you have the power and innate ability to do this, and believe in your innate connection. It may take some practice. Support can be helpful, of course, but not necessary.

The secret to cultivating these relationships is this:

How would you begin or maintain a relationship with a human? Or a pet? How would you wish to be treated? Our heart connects us to other humans and non-human beings, so let it lead the way. The heart feels and knows more than our mind.

Start simple-Meet a neighborhood tree:

Take a moment to center and ground yourself. Tune into your childlike heart and mind. Be open, curious, and hold a loving, good will within.

Take a walk around your neighborhood and let your heart lead you to a tree. Greet it like you would anyone else you haven’t met before:

‘Hi, I’m (name), nice to meet you. Can I come and sit down?’ (or you can stand if sitting isn’t accessible). Listen to their answer energetically, through the heart. Does it feel like a ‘yes, come and sit down’? or a ‘no/maybe not right now’? Trust your instincts.

Usually, trees are more welcoming than humans you first meet and are often happy to let you lean on or sit up against them early in the relationship! Your heart will likely guide you to a tree that is happy to connect with someone and is doing well. However, if you are guided to a tree that seems sickly or unwell, you can ask them what they need. You may be drawn to them to offer some love or learn from them. It’s important to be in listening mode, rather than talking mode when you first meet a tree or any other being, really. Trees, just like people, love being recognized and appreciated.

It’s common for the adult mind to feel silly or worried about what other people might think when we start talking to trees. The adult mind is conditioned to shame this part of ourselves. But with practice, it gets easier. From what I’ve noticed in here Toronto, more people are connecting with the trees around in personal ways and it’s becoming less of a ‘weird hippy’ thing to do and just something we need to do!

The great thing about being with a tree is that we don’t have to make small talk, plaster on a fake smile, or act or perform in any way. We can just be real, and the tree feels what’s real. We listen with our heart and speak from the heart. We can speak out loud or silently. They hear us just the same.

How to Connect With Them:

You can spend as long as you like with the tree. You can begin a powerful connection just by feeling into their energy and merging your own energy with them. You can temporarily let yourself ‘become’ the tree. This is an intro to shapeshifting and is a form of listening and honoring. It helps us to connect with their energy and remember this aspect of our own beingness- because we are all connected.

Does the energy feel it has a gender resonance? Is it soft, gentle, firm, strong? Does it feel young, middle aged or older? If they were a human, how would they look or act? What is their personality like? How do they make you feel? These questions can help us foster a connection.

Once you’ve felt their energy, you may want to have a conversation with them. This can be during your first meeting or after several times just feeling their energy and personality.

When conversing with a tree, just speak intuitively, from the heart. You can ask them questions about themselves or about life, or what they sense about you or something you are struggling with. You may feel the replies in your heart and it will feel like talking with a friend. It takes practice to let go of the ‘am I doing this right? Is this all in my head?’, and to just trust what you feel. But practice is key to noticing the difference. If it feels right, it likely is.

There doesn’t even have to be any words exchanged, really. When we connect with the tree’s energy, we might feel a part of ourselves awaken and receive information through the tree, into this part of us, which then gives us information we can use in our life and feel more whole. We don’t need to let things get too much in our heads. Sometimes the less we think the better the connection is.

Connecting With an Animal Ally:

Connecting with animal spirits and shapeshifting are ancient practices our ancestors all over the globe practiced. It isn’t only special cultures or people that can do this- we all can. Granted, there are different traditions, practices and lineages of practice, which all deserve their due respect. However, the original, pure connection we have with animals is innate, just like with trees and other beings.

When you were a child, was there an animal you felt a strong connection to? Did you have a pet? Is there an animal you feel drawn to these days or keeps showing up in your dreams or in your daily life? If you were an animal, which one would you be?

Animals can show up in real life, however because only some are visible in our local environment and many prefer to stay away from humans, they may choose to show themselves through media, in our dreams, in our environment, on a billboard or ad, on someone’s shirt, etc. They may not necessarily show themselves in real life while we walk down the street. Some animals come from lands far away that want our attention, and some are just less common in our environment. That’s ok! You don’t have to see or interact with a literal tiger to connect with the tiger’s spirit. If it comes with a feeling- like ‘I think this animal wants my attention’- it’s worth checking out!

How to connect with an animal ally: Try my recorded guided meditation journey to find your animal ally here:

This is the meditation we do at my in-person circles and part of my Nourish Your Spirit program.

Cultivating a relationship with an animal ally is similar to one with a beloved human. You may wish to honor them with photos in your space, learning about them and their likes and dislikes, their habits and routines, what they eat, how they survive, what makes them special and how they experience the world. You can connect with them in your imagination, in your heart, through photos, memory, or literal physical connection.

Sometimes having a part of the animal’s body- such as a naturally shed antler, claw, skin, or fur can help you connect. I like to find or make figurines of the animal and have them on my altar.

With animals, it can be easier to feel that they are an aspect of ourselves. We can move our body and make sounds like they do- again, we did this as kids all the time, playing pretend!

One way to get closer to our animal is to merge with them and become them. If you did the meditation above, you may have experienced that. You can also go a step further, and put on some music and dance as your animal. Bringing their energy into your body and into the world is something they appreciate. It is a form of honoring them.

Also, you can honor animals through donating to causes that support their habitat, safety and existence. You can honor them through expressing their energy or your love for them through art, writing, or simply walking in the world in the way they do. By adopting some of their habits or ways of being in the world, you will start to notice how deeply you are connected and how this energy supports your wellbeing and your life.

Offerings:

I feel an important part of my relationship with spirit allies is giving thanks and appreciation. This comes naturally of course when you connect from your heart rather than your head. It’s not that we ‘have to’ give an offering to get into their good books or make a deal or other manipulative give-and-take actions. We don’t need to give our blood or sacrifice ourselves to be in relationship. I don’t feel that we need to prove our worthiness or anything to speak with a tree, animal or other non-human kin. To me, that is hierarchical relational nonsense. It’s our natural reaction to genuine heartfelt connection to want to give thanks and appreciation. When you genuinely care, you show respect. If you aren’t genuine, you need to find that first before starting a relationship.

To show thanks, you can honor your plant ally by:

Taking care of them physically in the world, such as watering a tree or cleaning up garbage around them.
Feeding the earth or the squirrels/birds that live in or near them.
Giving them a genuine hug, kiss, share a song or words of gratitude.
Offer herbs, or other natural gifts, especially those you’ve cultivated or created yourself
Simply offer your love, placing your hand on the plant, tree, rock, etc.

You can honor your animal ally by:

Taking care of this animal in its physical form if accessible or offer money or time to an organization that supports them.
Honoring them through merging, or dancing.
Creating something in their honor.
Having a dedicated space to them in your home or on your altar, having a photo of them where you always see it, candles, etc.

Maintaining a Relationship:

Our non-human kin relationships are like our human ones. Some allies are with us very closely for a period of time and then we may go months or years without much contact, only to reconnect again in a new or similar way. Sometimes we may not really connect much with them again. Some allies are very close with us our entire lifetimes, and everything in between. If we are in a genuine connection with our ally, we will know if it is time to have some space or not. We can ask them directly and let our heart receive the answer.

It’s ok if some allies are a bit further from us for a while. Another may step in to help us learn something, or we may just need time to integrate what the relationship brought us. Sometimes, if they’ve been helping us with something, they give us the chance to see what we can do on our own.

If you haven’t felt a connection in a while, it doesn’t mean they’ve abandoned you, it just may mean you either may need to put forth some effort to reconnect, or trust that there is a reason for the distance. Follow your heart in this relationship. Sometimes they simply wait for us to make the first move to show we want to connect and they are happy when we do!

I hope that helps to give you a sense of what having a relationship with our spirit allies can entail. The same suggestions apply to other beings or guides in Spirit you may be working with or getting to know.

If you have any questions about this or wish to journey deeper into the process, you may be interested in my Nourish Your Spirit program, a 12 week journey where we connect with 5 allies- An animal, tree, crystal, herb and element. It also includes a Tarot Reading. Contact me if you’re interested! Sessions can be online or in-person.

If you’re in the Toronto area, you may wish to join us for our Spring Equinox Circle: Connecting with our Animal Allies– where we will do the meditation in-person together and connect with our animal allies that are coming through for us during this next season and beyond!

Blessings of beautiful connections on your path,

Serena

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What is Earth-Based Healing?

What exactly is earth-based healing? How can earth-based spirituality help us heal and grow?

Earth-based spirituality is a nature-based path of connection, remembering, healing and growth, rooted in animism.

Animism is the world view that sees all life as alive and interconnected. Each tree, rock, plant and animal has a spirit, and therefore a healing gift for the world. We are not separate from nature, and therefore, when we connect with our non-human kin, we remember our own medicine, too, and that we are not alone, that we belong in the family of this Earth world.

This is an ancient way of being that has existed in cultures all across the globe and is a foundation in many paths of witchcraft. It is very much alive in Indigenous traditions.

I feel one reason it is so popular today, is that we are in a crisis of isolation and have a deep hunger for belonging.

Social media, pandemic mandates, capitalism, and all the ‘isms’ have all contributed to this sense of isolation and separateness that has escalated in recent years.

My hope is that as we move into a new paradigm, as challenging as it may be, more folks will wake up to the fact that this deep hunger for belonging cannot be satiated through social media. Human connection is essential to our well-being and many of us are only satisfied with connecting with people in real life. Beyond that, I feel many of us have an even deeper need for belonging that connections with other people cannot fill- It is the need to feel a kinship with nature. There is a need to belong to the land we walk on and our animal, plant, tree and rock kin. This is our original relationship to the source of life- without the human mind and its drama- we need to remember our belonging with the land.

Deep down in our bones, we know we too, are wild.

The cleansing rain, the soft mossy earth, the whisper of a raven’s wing, the haunting song of humpback whales, the crackling flames of a bonfire- all live within us. We are Earth and Earth is us. When we spend time in the woods, there is often a deep remembering. Remembering the ancestors and how they lived, and of our own belonging to the earth. A remembering of the ancient wisdom trees hold, and the sacredness of the life of a deer- just as sacred as our own.

Life becomes magical when we remember our own inner wildness.

When I say ‘wildness’, I mean our innate connection to the Earth, which can be very quiet and introspective, not necessarily dance-around-the-bonfire-naked kind of wild, though that may be included too!

When we re-ignite our remembering of our kinship with the earth, our sense of belonging grows. It is hard to feel alone when we remember this.

How Do We Practice Earth-Based Spirituality?

The great thing about this practice is that there is no one way. Each individual will have their own unique way of practicing. At its foundation, it is about connecting with nature regularly, and intimately. It’s about going beyond the physical and into the energetic and spiritual essence of animals, plants, crystals, rocks, bodies of water, landscapes, sacred sites and more. It is a deepened sensitivity and intuitive listening to the world around us- to feel what’s beyond the surface and into the heart and soul of the living beings that surround us. It is also fundamentally about being in reciprocal relationship with the being around us- not feeling superior or ‘other’, but being a friend or family member with the beings around us.

One’s practice can entail listening to and talking to plants, and getting to know their energy and medicine. It can include connecting deeply with animals, and working with animal spirits for protection, energy, or healing in daily life. It can entail observing the equinoxes, solstices and moon cycles, connecting with the ancestors of the land, and much more.

Some folks are solitary, while some like more formal gatherings. Some prefer structured rituals, while some keep it loose and just live in tune with the earth and its cycles more intuitively. Someone living on a farm or in the woods will have a different practice than someone in a big city. Neither way is right or wrong, all are valid.

For me, my earth-based practice includes a lot of attuning to the energies I feel from the earth and its cycles as well as the moon. Connecting with the spirits of trees, rocks, animals and the elements is central to my practice, as well as observing my emotional and embodied experience during moon cycles and seasonal cycles.

I don’t really spend time doing spells, but I have a lot of regular rituals- such as visiting local trees, talking with them, learning from them and giving offerings to them. I try to visit trees almost daily.

I also grow plants in my garden and like to take care of them and listen to them, harvest them and make teas, smoke cleanse, and herbal charms.

I also take regular sojourns to the spirit realm to connect with animal allies and do different rituals of connection with them.

I have many rocks and crystals in my space as well, which I enjoy placing on my body for healing, or wearing for protection, or adding into a healing pouch.

How Does an Earth-Based Path Help Us Heal?

Earth-based spirituality is healing because it is about being in relationship with the world around us. It heals our collective isolation wound. It helps us remember that we belong. Being in relationship with our non-human kin is the foundation of its power.

When we see plants as kin, we don’t wish to harm them, we respect them. This is a form of un-colonising our conditioning. True witchy power doesn’t come from using plants, herbs or crystals to fulfill a personal desire, but from having a respectful relationship with them and treating them as friends or family. They may wish to help you fulfill a desire, or they may want to teach you something, help you heal, or they may simply wish to simply ‘be’ in the environment, or work with insects and animals and not with humans.

Our non-human kin may be called ‘healing allies’ or ‘spirit allies’ or guides that help us heal or deal with a challenge in the present. Their medicine, or the special qualities they carry serve as reminders of a part of ourselves that wishes to come into wholeness.

Each aspect of nature, including us, are an expression of Spirit which flows through everything. Sometimes along our human journey, we forget, suppress or reject aspects of ourselves- to survive, to fit in, or to ‘succeed’ at goals that we set for ourselves. Over time, those aspects may call to be remembered, loved and integrated. These shadow aspects of ourselves, often contain gifts and medicines long forgotten or suppressed over generations in our lineage.

When we answer the call to remembering our kinship with aspects of nature, we are remembering our connection to the whole, and to our own wholeness.

In reality, we are completely whole, and perfect, just as we are. We are perfect and whole just as nature is. We only need to simply exist. Yet, we forget this, and need reminders.

Our kin in nature help reflect back to us forgotten parts of ourselves that are ready to come into integration within ourselves.

For example, we may have gone through some painful breakups that have left our heart untrusting and closed to intimacy. Connecting with a Rose Quartz crystal- and developing a relationship with them over time, can help us heal our heart. Working with Rose could also help, as these allies hold the energy of unconditional love. They can help us remember how to love ourselves again and open our heart to more true connections.

Another example could be that we’ve forgotten our confidence, and thus we may find working with a wild cat like a lion ally or another animal can help us remember this aspect of our nature. Or perhaps we work with the element of fire or sunlight to help ignite our inner flame of strength and confidence.

If we are in a situation where we need to get more grounded and sustain strength over a long period of time. In this case, an Oak tree may help us remember our strength and help ground us.

If you were embarking on a journey- whether a new educational program or traveling, you may find a bird ally helpful, as they resonate with freedom of movement and perspective. Each bird is so unique however, that there will be a specific one that carries an energy you would most resonate with.

How Do We Know Which Ally to Connect With?

Trust your intuition and curiosity. Perhaps you keep noticing a certain tree lately? Or, an animal keeps showing up in your dreams? Or you find yourself craving baths, being near water or wanting to cleanse?

Experiment and notice how you feel. Remember, this is an innate part of you, your inner wild one that has always been there, waiting to be remembered.

It doesn’t have to be complicated, and we don’t necessarily need a human teacher to intermediate between us and the earth. However, it is always great to learn from others! Especially Indigenous folks, when it comes to this land here on Turtle Island.

I believe we all have an inner spiritual guide or healer within that leads us to exactly where we need to be, and shows us what we need. We just need to listen, and to notice what we are being shown. Notice your dream symbols, notice your desires, notice repeated symbols in your environment. Be curious!

What area of your life do you feel drawn to healing or improving? What type of energy does this area need? What animal, element, crystal, herb or tree carries a similar energy?

Here are some more ways you can bring some Earth-Based rituals into your life:

–Walk in a nearby park or forest and allow yourself to be drawn to a plant or tree. Get to know them, sit with them, talk to them, become friends. Bring an offering of animal-safe food or herbs, or offer loving words of gratitude, song or even a kiss or a hug.

–Choose a crystal you are drawn to. You may also find a rock on the ground and ask if you can take them home. Hold the rock to your heart or wherever on your body you intuitively feel their energy. What is their energy like? How do they make you feel? Rocks hold the wisdom of time and the land they are from. Read about their origins and properties, wear it or keep it nearby.

–Get acquainted with an herb you are drawn to. Connect with them outside, if possible. If not, connect with them as a dried herb- either as is, or in a tea or tincture. (Of course be sure to check out the medicinal properties if you are ingesting it!). What is their energy like? If they were a person, what would they be like? How do they make you feel?

–Keep a Moon journal. Note the phase and how you feel during that phase. You may wish to read my blog posts on honouring the moon cycles here and here.

-Let the elements heal you. When the sun is out, take some time to receive the healing light of its rays into your heart, mind, belly. Feel the warmth and light fill any areas of sadness, fear, emptiness or malaise. If grief, wistfulness or overwhelm come over you, spend some time near water for cleansing and renewal. Even just listening to a recording of ocean waves can kindle our remembering. When experiencing anxiety, confusion or overwhelm, spend some time grounding in the earth. Take off your shoes and feel it under your feet. Lean against a tree or sit on a rock to remember your own stability.

As our practice grows over time, we start to feel a greater kinship and belonging- not only to the land, but also to ourselves. When we connect to all the beauty and medicine that exists around us, we remember that it is the same beauty and medicine we carry within.

If you are looking for some support to help you embark or continue on your earth-based spiritual journey, I am here to do just that! I take you on a guided journey to find your allies, through my one-on-one program: Nourish Your Spirit. In a series of 6 sessions, we uncover the healing needed through a Tarot Reading, learn grounding, centering, energetic cleansing and protection practices, and find a crystal, animal, herb, tree and elemental ally for you to work with. Contact me for a free 30 min consult!

In kinship,

Serena

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Healing Perfectionism- You Do Not Have To Be Good

Nature is perfect in her own way- and you are too.

Like each tree, plant and flower, you belong here and carry your unique medicine and gifts. You have an important part to play in the universal story and believe it or not, your existence is enough. All of your flaws, vulnerabilities, wounds and insecurities- they are part of your medicine. You are perfect in this moment, right here and now.

Our Environmental Stresses

Our culture is steeped in image-obsession and perfectionism. It seems every day there is a new level of pressure to adhere to impossible standards- not only of beauty and youth, but parenting, career, social media behaviour, in every aspect of life.

I am a recovering perfectionist. Like most women, I grew up in a culture that expects girls to always behave like a young lady, please others and put others’ needs first. As I became a teen and young woman, I realised how impossible it was becoming to meet the expectations placed on me by society. It always felt I was ‘too’ something or not enough of something. My goodness wasn’t inherent. It was to be earned.

Some of us may have had childhoods where being ‘good’ was internalised as a matter of survival, and later as adults, it manifests as the need to please our bosses, clients, partners and the public at large. Rather than feeling good, we feel we must act or look a certain way to be considered good.

We all have an internalised authority figure- an inner judge or critic, or some almighty spiritual being or God that we feel is watching our every move. We may serve this judge on a daily basis and not even realise it. Guilt and shame are used in our society to control us and have been for a long time.

We may have idealised in our mind about what our ‘perfect’ self looks like, acts like and strive to meet that. This may be part of a spiritual ideal, or a social ideal. We may succumb to social media’s pressure to romanticise or glamorise our lives, to perform activism or do whatever is necessary to look good and be good in the eyes of the inner judge.

Social media makes it so we no longer have privacy. Our words, photos and videos are available for the masses to consume and criticise, so we curate them appropriately. The widespread use of Zoom forced us to see ourselves on video far more than we normally would, inviting excessive self-consciousness and self-criticism.

I know I sound old, but I miss the days of simply BEing ourselves, in 3D, finding friends and sharing our interests without the unnecessary public scrutiny.

The religious underpinnings of our society mixed with capitalism create an environment where our desire to be loved and accepted is constantly used and manipulated with guilt, shame and image-consciousness to keep us buying things and doing things that are not authentic to our true, whole selves.

Beauty Standards

My 15 yr old daughter is really into makeup and loves Sephora. I recently read an article about ‘Sephora Kids’, who are often age 10 or younger, insisting they use products designed for middle-aged women lest they wither and lose their youthful glow. But they haven’t even been hit by teen acne yet. These girls are inundated with Tik Tok influencers selling anti-aging products they don’t need, which can actually be harmful to young skin. It is becoming more normalised than ever for teen girls and young women to get botox and cosmetic surgery as well.

Thankfully, my daughter has enough sense to do her research and see the BS behind a lot of social media pressures, but she is not immune to it and neither am I. I think today’s youth have it harder than I did at that age. Sure, they have better makeup and acne products, more access to information on anything, and can text their friends instead of writing notes. But they’ve got way more pressure to look good and act a certain way. More ways to be bullied and publicly shamed on a larger scale. More risk of internalising beauty standards that are completely unrealistic.

As I embrace middle age and walk with my daughter through her teen years, I see how deeply we’ve both been conditioned to dwell on our appearance, our behaviour, our need to be ‘good’ as girls and women. How our bodies will never fit into the box and neither will our spirits. I hope my own process of liberation supports hers, and we can embrace the wholeness of who we are as we grow older.

We are Spiritual Beings Having a Human Experience

So, how do we live authentically, without falling into these traps of idealisation, perfectionism, guilt and ‘not-enoughness’?

How do we invite our wounded, flawed, wrinkled, imperfect selves into a dance of wholeness with all that noise in the background?

How do we embrace the limitations of our earthly existence- the body, our survival needs, our desire to simply be loved and belong- amidst the pressures to constantly prove our worthiness?

Perhaps the most healing poem I’ve ever come across that acts as a balm to my perfectionism is Wild Geese by Mary Oliver:

Let the Soft Animal of Your Body Love What it Loves

I was introduced to this poem over 20 years ago when I first became a Yoga instructor. It has been a great support to my embodiment practice over the years. When I find myself getting rigid about my diet or body image, I often have to remind myself to simply ‘let the soft animal of my body love what it loves’. Every day I do an authentic/free movement practice to help me ground into the sensations, pleasures, and limitations of the body. This helps me reclaim my body as my own, as an organic process, as a living being- rather than an object for others to look at.

Having lived with a painful chronic disease, I have had to overcome a lot of inner perfectionism and embrace new levels of acceptance. Daily, I must come to terms with this body and its form, its limits and embrace what is, in the moment.

Unlike choreographed dance forms, authentic movement (and ecstatic dance) help me to embody and feel my beauty, rather than just try to see it. When I feel the satisfaction of a deep stretch, the powerful pulse of my heartbeat, the shivers of excitement when I shake my hair out- I am whole. I am happy. I am ecstatic. I feel beautiful, and this helps me see that in the mirror.

Through movement, I shapeshift into many forms. My body mirrors the movements of animals, birds, trees, fish and otherworldly creatures of all kinds.

When I put on music, I am transported to the sky realms, the sea, the mountains. I travel and flow with it, with my body, letting it move however it wants to. Some days, I just want to lie still. Others, I want to shake, jump or sway. I don’t have to look good while moving. I also activate my voice with sounding, which doesn’t have to sound good.

Movement helps me remember that my body is a channel of energy, that it is part of everything, that it is both finite and connected to the infinite universe at the same time. Movement is magick.

Free, authentic movement is a balm to our wounds of body objectification and separation from our animal instincts. By being fully in our body, the sensations coming from within it, we can transcend it at the same time, and feel the wholeness of our Spirit.

How do you let the soft animal of your body love what it loves?

Tell Me About Your Despair, Yours, And I Will Tell You Mine. Meanwhile, the World Goes On

Our journey through this life eventually etches itself on our body, and in our psyche. We become a collection of experiences- of love, pain, anguish, grief and joy.

I am ok with my laugh lines and crow’s feet. But the furrowed stress lines between my eyebrows, less so.

It’s easier to embrace the good parts of life, harder to embrace the pain. I don’t want to remember painful parts of my past. But embracing and remembering doesn’t mean I have to dwell in it.

The poem Wild Geese reminds us that while our pain is real and must be felt and processed, it is a small part of the big picture. For every moment of pain and sorrow there is a multitude of joyful moments to join in on, if we choose to.

No matter what dramas befall us, the natural world keeps going. The instinct of animals is to keep living their life as best as they can. They don’t waste time trying to fit into anyone’s expectations or worrying about the past. They remind us to live fully in the here and now. They continue to generate life, no matter what else is dying or falling away.

The sun always rises again the next day. We’re given another chance to begin again. To breathe new life into ourselves.

Nature asks us to merge with her rhythms and trust they will bring us into a new place all on their own.

When I’m in emotional overwhelm, I go for a walk in the ravine, cuddle my cat or tend my houseplants. Other times I just stare at the moon outside my window. All I know is that these small acts immediately bring me into a deeper calm when I’m frazzled or caught up in life’s dramas. I know I’m held and supported, that there’s a bigger rhythm and cycle I’m part of. These cycles are a reminder that we cannot control everything. That there is a divine wisdom unfolding in its own timing.

What rituals do you have that help you feel part of nature and its cycles?

Announcing Your Place in The Family of Things

We have a collective wound around belonging. This creates a deep insecurity within ourselves, that can rear its head and make us feel we have to ‘earn our keep’ or prove our worthiness to exist here. But we all belong here.

You belong here. Right here on earth, right where you are now. You’re part of the Earth family. You are exactly where you’re meant to be. Imperfections and all. You are deeply loved and supported by all your kin- your fellow humans, trees, animals, ancestors, the little flowers on that windowsill, and the big beautiful full moon in the sky.

The human experience can feel super lonely. Even though I have a strong animistic spiritual practice, I still feel loneliness sometimes. I have often become overwhelmed by this world and felt like I must be from some other place. While perhaps our spirit may be from another dimension or the stars, we were born on this earth, for a reason and purpose. We are meant to be here, and we belong here now.

My animistic practice is what has healed the deeper loneliness I used to feel, and it is what I turn to whenever loneliness comes up, because it heals me every time.

Animism is the belief that everything has a spirit. No matter what form we are in, we all have a spirit, and maybe that spirit is from here and maybe it isn’t, but we’re all here nonetheless. We’re all spirit in a physical form on Earth.

When I hear the croak of my neighbourhood raven, or touch the trunk of a nearby tree, I feel their kinship. When I sit on the beach, I listen to the waters and speak my pain to them. When I pick up a rock I listen to its wisdom. Everything has a soul, an intelligence. This is what I believe, and how I live. It takes away the loneliness.

I know that while I have human family, my family extends far beyond that. I have the nature beings, ancestors and spirit guides. This is my family and my home. It is yours too.

Do you have a favourite spot in nature that helps you feel at home? What helps you feel a sense of belonging on this earth?

As I recover from my own perfectionism, I hope to share these little nuggets of healing, in the hopes that we all feel a little better in our bodies, on this planet, just as we are.

Do you struggle with perfectionism? What helps you heal and feel whole?

May any perfectionism you struggle with soften into a deep knowing of your innate worthiness. Your existence is enough. You belong here. You do not have to be good.

Serena

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What is a Healing Ally? Connecting With the Spirits of Nature for Wellbeing

I am not only a witch, but an animist, which means I believe that all the beings around us have a spirit.

Rocks, plants, trees, animals, the elements- to me they are not resources to be consumed, but beings in their own right. They live alongside us, and yet as humans we can often be oblivious to their whisperings and invitations to cultivate an actual relationship. This is in part because we are conditioned to dismiss our own innate ability to feel their energies through our heart wisdom.

For many folks, connecting with the spirits of nature came easily to us as children, but as adults, we feel it’s weird or silly to talk to trees, dance like animals or pray to the elements to bring healing or transformation.

For animists, however, it is part of our practice and lifestyle to activate that childlike wonder, to communicate with nature through our heart-wisdom and to awaken our ancestral memories of living in deeper relationship with the spirits of the land.

Since ancient times, animism has been part of many belief systems all over the globe. Beliefs vary from culture to culture, however traditions and folklore around animals, trees and rocks that acknowledge the unique spirits of these beings are common pretty much everywhere.

Since we are no longer living in such intimacy with the land and each other as we may have in the past, It’s easy to feel alone in this modern world. We forget that we are never truly alone, that we are surrounded by the spirits of nature, just waiting for us to remember our kinship with them.

Reclaiming our childlike wisdom

My daughter running through the Scottish Highlands

We can cultivate our childlike wisdom and remember our kinship, if we choose to.

But why would we want to do this? Well, life can get pretty small and dull as we get older if we don’t. But we aren’t doing it to revert to some childlike state or to escape reality.

In cultivating a relationship with the spirits of nature, we can better understand and manage our human experience. We can see ourselves and our place in the whole. We gain perspective and reconnect to the great web of life again. A sense of meaning and purpose is restored. We can heal old wounds, feel more accepting of ourselves and regain a sense of power-with rather than power-over that our colonial paradigm encourages.

Did you have an ‘imaginary friend’ as a child? Did you believe in faeries, mermaids, dragons or other creatures? Did you ever talk to plants and animals as friends, wish upon a star, or feel awe every time you looked up at the sky?

I know I did. I still do. But sometimes I’ve had to de-condition myself out of the adult mind that dismisses my heartfelt truths and judges my intuitive perceptions.

Take a moment to remember being a child and feeling that awe, that magick. What does it feel like to remember?

We adults like to think we have this world figured out if we can name, describe and identify things on a physical level. This is useful and valuable, yet, this level of understanding is only one level. When we were children, we were more open and receptive to what is beyond the visible. In order to feel it, we need to be open to it. It is kind of like that in connecting to the spirits of nature. Receptivity and openness is key.

What makes a tree, an animal or a flower a ‘healing ally’? What wounds are we healing?

I feel we know deep down that we are not meant to live in a chronic state of anxiety, competition, insecurity and fear, which modern life encourages. We know we’re meant to feel a sense of love and belonging in life, not loneliness and struggle.

I feel we collectively carry a wound of isolation. Healing this comes from remembering. Remembering our true nature, of being at one with existence. This state is sought by spiritual seekers in many ways- some healthy and some unhealthy or escapist. However, in cultivating a meaningful relationship with the spirits of nature, with the land we live on, we can stay grounded, healthy and present in this world and are less likely to want to escape it.

The beings of nature are healing allies, because they help us heal from the feeling of isolation and disconnection modern life creates.

This is the healing in a general sense, however, allies all carry their unique energies and can help us with unique issues. In Indigenous cultures the term ‘medicine’ is often used in recognition of the unique healing energies plants and animals carry. A plant does not have to be made into a tincture or capsule to be considered medicinal.

For instance, a certain rock or crystal can ground us and help with anxiety, like a local beach rock, jasper or tourmaline, while others facilitate communication with other realms, such as labradorite or celestite.

Spending time near water can help us process grief or help restore a sense of trust in the flow of life, while spending time with trees can help us stand strong in our power and provide stability.

Herbs each carry their unique energies and personalities. Lavender may come to us when we need to cultivate peace of mind, Mugwort may show up when we need to navigate the wisdom of our dreams or receive guidance from our intuition.

Animals are also amazing allies to work with. You might find your own pets to be a balm to your soul when you’re stressed. You may find working with a specific bird, like Crow can help you heal wounds around speaking your truth, or the Mountain Lion can help you heal wounds around confidence or self-assertion.

How can we discover our healing allies? How can we connect with them?

There are many ways to begin this journey. Take into consideration your own cultural beliefs and practices when connecting with healing allies. There are many ways of perceiving and practicing connection, so keep in mind that my example may not necessarily align with everyone, and your relationship with an ally may be different than someone else’s.

Allies may show up in our dreams, visions, through repeated symbols popping up in our daily life, or we may seek out a relationship more consciously.

An ally may be meant to work with you for only a short time, while others may become long-time friends that continue to provide support for you for decades!

Here is a step-by-step example of how to intentionally find and begin a relationship with a healing ally:

Visit a favourite spot outside, like a forest, garden, park, hill or shore where you feel your energy restored and like you can simply ‘be’. This is a clue that it is a place you may find a healing ally.

Ask your spirit guides/deity to lead you to a healing ally. Think about what is troubling you. Open your heart, speak your truth to the land and ask for support.

Go for a walk in your favourite place. Be open and receptive. Notice if you are drawn to certain trees, plants, rocks or just an area to sit and be. Trust your instincts and don’t force anything.

An ally could be a bird or other creature you see. It could be water, land, sky or the sun. It could be a tree, rock, plant or flower. When you find what you feel is an ally, spend some time with it. It is customary in many traditions to give the beings of the land an offering as way of saying hello and inviting it into relationship. An offering could be animal-friendly food or herbs. It may be tobacco, if you reside on Turtle Island (North America) and this is part of your practice. I also sometimes offer a prayer, kind words or a song. There are many types of offerings, just be aware of the safety of your offering in the environment.

Take time to simply receive and listen to the wisdom of this being. If it is a tree, sitting with your back up against it or placing a hand or even hugging it are ways to feel its energy. See it as a living being with a personality and a soul. Listening is more important than speaking, especially at first.

Notice what you are receiving. Take your time. Notice how you feel in your body in the presence of this being. What sensations do you feel? Have your emotions shifted? Did a new idea or vision pop into your mind? You can then converse with it- ask it a question about itself. Ask it something about your life. Feel for its answer. Or perhaps you feel silence is sufficient.

When you feel your energy shift from being with this ally, you can decide when it is time to say goodbye and go on with your day. Give thanks, maybe tell it when you’ll be back and send it some love, or give an offering.

I feel it is very important to be respectful, just like you would with a human friend in terms of taking anything. If your ally is a tree or plant and it offers something to you, and you take it- always give thanks, whether energetically or through an offering.

*Remember that while our heart wisdom is very important, it is also important for safety reasons to balance this with scientific knowledge, because some things are meant to be worked with energetically, but not physically. For instance, do not attempt to ingest herbs without first finding out about its safety and whether it is appropriate for your body. Some plants are meant to be connected with energetically, but not ingested! Same goes for crystals- don’t put them in water and drink the water before researching whether they are toxic. It is a good idea to do some research on your ally alongside connecting with it through your heart wisdom.

Nature rests through most of the harsh Canadian winters

The above is an example that works well especially during the warmer months of the year, but it can be a bit challenging over the long, harsh Canadian winters. If nature is sleeping or inaccessible, we can still access the spirits of the land, plants and animals through a guided meditation journey, or another form of inner travel.

I provide this form of connection in my one on one sessions, alongside physical connection with the ally in different forms- such as dried, essential oil, energetic remedies or symbolic representation, which are accessible all year round.

Beings we cannot access physically + Cultivating a reciprocal relationship over time

Our healing allies may come and go during different phases of our life. They may be beings that do not live on the land we live on, or even in our physical world. They may only be accessible through meditation journeys, dreams, photos or other symbolic representations.

For instance, I had a mermaid ally for a long time, and still feel very connected to merfolk. I have never met one in person, of course, but I have spent lots of time with them in my journeys. Over time, my relationship with the merfolk has faded into the background, however they are always there if I wish to reconnect. I am often reminded our relationship during the summer months while swimming, or when someone notices my mermaid tattoo, which I got to support my healing process with them. Being with mermaids enhanced my relationship with the water element and deepened my respect for it which will last a lifetime.

An ally that is not physically available to us does not diminish its healing power or importance in our life. It is also normal for our relationships with allies to shift over time. Old ones fade, new ones come. This means we are growing!

Cultivating relationships with the spirits of nature is probably the most healing thing I have ever done for myself. It not only helps me feel supported, loved and connected, but has helped me to make big shifts in my mental, emotional and physical health. Working with healing allies have healed everything from stomach aches, extremely severe menstrual cramps, depression, anxiety, heartbreak, ancestral trauma, and more. I am forever changed and enriched by these relationships.

Do you have any healing allies in your life? How do you connect with them? How have they helped you?

Thank-you for reading,

Serena

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