✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

The Ancient Traditions of Angels, by Normandi Ellis

The Ancient Tradition of Angels: The Power and Influence of Sacred Messengers, by Normandi Ellis
Bear & Company, 978-1591434399, 280 pages, March 2023

“Angels appear in all cultures and religions. One group identifies such a being as deity, another as a deva, another as angel. Are they real or imagined? Ah, now that is one of the questions we will be drawn to examine more closely toward the end of this book!”1

I am a big fan of Normandi Ellis’s books, having cut my teeth on her Egyptian classics. The Ancient Tradition of Angels: The Power and Influence of Sacred Messengers is yet another of her well-researched and thoughtfully crafted offerings that provides the reader, regardless of spiritual practice or tradition,  with enough information to make the connections desired with the angelic realms.

This book is organized into five sections with forwards by world renowned scholar, philosopher and futurist, Dr. Jean Houston and author of the Medicine Woman series, Lynn Andrews. Additionally, there are twenty-five beautiful color plates mid-book that enrich the visual aspect.

The introduction prepares the reader to be open to the concept of angels as not only divine messengers, but beings of light consciousness, part of the universal life force that connects all beings, and as such take on the many forms that an individual or culture may need to see a deeper truth and reality. These first steps into the core of The Ancient Tradition of Angels are ripe with Ellis’s personal experiences with angels and the messages shared with her about the nature of their being and functions at a cosmic and terrestrial level. 

“Angels can take on any form they wish. When the occasion warrants, they may appear as human.2.

“Answering the Call” provides the reader with a personal account of Ellis’s experience with angels and continues to lay the foundations of the function, guidance and nature of the angelic realms and their correlation to religion. These are just a few of the stories she recounts throughout the book and create a solid foundation for the reader of the depth of communication with these beings that the author has established.

The subsequent three sections discuss how angels are perceived within the Western Traditions, Eastern Traditions,  and Silk Road Traditions. There is a lot of Judeo-Christian referencing as would be expected given the heavy emphasis that has been placed on angels, but these serve more as points of correlation to the lesser known angels and related beings such as the Devas of India, the spirit beings of Buddhist traditions, the Islamic angel of death, the Zoroastrian angels of protection and many more.

“Section 4: Dark Angels” covers the concepts of those that are Fallen angels, including Lucifer Morningstar, the Angel of the Day of Judgement, and the Angel of Death, who often serves as psychopomp into the otherworld. From these, Ellis speaks to the arising of demons, the devil, and Satan and their relationship to the angelic realms and need for the polarity of good and evil that humans have the need for. 

By the time the reader arrives at “Section 5: Human and Angelic Interactions”, a robust study of the origins, roles, and multi-layered perspectives of angels and their hierarchies within hierarchies has been provided. This is a natural bridge into the bigger question of the reality of angels–how do we communicate and engage? This is also the place where human “free will” comes into play and discussion of invocation -or not- of angels is put to the test through the historical knowledge of traditional practices. This discourse is derived from the ideology that “God asked the angels to help him make humans, which they did not especially want to do.”3

This falls into the belief that angels were favored above man, and with the appearance of humans and the complexities of spiritual form held in a corporeal state, the angels thus became guides and aids, taking on many other tasks in the assistance of humanity. With these considerations Ellis points out that the interaction with angels becomes more complex than a simple call and ask.

I was especially drawn to “Conclusion: I Am That I Am”. This section zeros in on the concept of angels as aspects of light consciousness. A scientific approach of light, physics, and quantum ideology weaves the components that flow within and from these angelic beings. This removes any religious bias the reader may have and places the reality of these beings (and others) in a modern context that although still unable to concretely prove the existence of angelic beings, there is also nothing that definitively says otherwise.

For those readers who wish to create a practice of connection with the Archangels, “Addendum: An Invocation of Archangels” provides a step-by-step ritual calling that is both simple and powerful. And, for the bibliophile, the bibliography boasts eleven pages of curated listings, including some more obscure titles as well as those that would capture the attention of a wide selection of an individual’s cultural and religious/spiritual practice.I always appreciate when an index for quick search is included in a dense and rich title too, which this book has.

Would I Recommend?

The Ancient Tradition of Angels fulfills the Ellis’s intention of deepening the understanding and perceptions of the angelic beings and their impact on the individual, culturally, and cosmically:

“It has been my intention to prove that angels exist, only to prove that whether we learn about angels from personal experience , from the pulpit, from stories told by travelers along the way, the messages and interventions of angels have shaped the cultures in which we exist. And through whichever door those angels have arrived, they have become a part of us. The true message of the angels lies within.4.

Within these 280 pages, Ellis has managed to provide a wealth of resources spanning a diverse inclusion of spiritual and religious practice, practical application for opening the lens of perception to the possibilities offered by the angelic beings and supportive footnotes for more clarity of content. The Ancient Tradition of Angels is a literal textbook of study that leads the way to all manner of angel-related academia and shared personal encounters. 

Explorations of sacred texts, the seven great angels, the energetic streams that are the light of angelic consciousness, Kabbalistic principles, the natural universal laws and the interwoven streams of angelic and divine light we carry within are just a few of the paths that carry the reader to a space of the Divine. Regardless of your personal spiritual/religious practice, this is an important read to broaden one’s understanding of the natural and unnatural worlds of which we are a purposeful part. 

About the Author: Normandi Ellis

Normandi Ellis is an award-winning writer, workshop facilitator, and archpriestess of the Fellowship of Isis. The author and coauthor of several books, including Awakening Osiris and Hieroglyphic Words of Power, she leads tours to Egypt. She lives in Chesterfield, Indiana.

Pagan Portals – Artemis, by Irisanya Moon

Pagan Portals – Artemis: Goddess of the Wild Hunt & Sovereign Heart, by Irisanya Moon
Moon Books, 1803413212, 112 pages, March 2024

I have been lacking a clear direction lately. Seeking clarity, I did a meditation for guidance, during which I felt a call to get to know the goddess Artemis. Intrigued by her lore and the promise of empowerment she symbolizes, I turned to Pagan Portals – Artemis: Goddess of the Wild Hunt & Sovereign Heart by Irisanya Moon in hopes of learning more about how to connect with Artemis in order to discern where to point my own bow and arrow. This book promised not just background knowledge, but an introduction to a path that could potentially align me with the strength and independence epitomized by Artemis herself.

“I believe Artemis is being called into these times, like a friend and trusted ally. She can call us back to the wild hunt and claim our sovereignty (the ability to self-govern and be self-possessed). Artemis is not one of just play and delight, though She is that too, She is a being of action and alignment. She knows Her values and acts on them.”1

Moon is a seasoned Pagan Portals author whose previous titles covered Aphrodite, Iris, The Norns, Gaia, and the Reclaiming witchcraft tradition. In this book, she turns her attention towards the goddess Artemis, teaching readers Her family lineage, stories, myths, symbols, and offerings, as well as guidance on how to create and sustain a relationship with Her.

What I appreciate about Moon’s approach to Artemis is that she leaves a lot of room open for readers to cultivate their own relationship. She does not present herself as the end-all-be-all authority on Her; rather she comes across as someone who sincerely wishes to share what she has learned through her own journey alongside historical sources to reveal the many facets of this goddess. She shares references, quotes other sources, and provides a detailed bibliography at the end for readers to use as a springboard for their own research.

What Moon does do that aids readers, especially those new to working with Artemis, is call upon her experience as a witch, priestess, and teacher to guide readers in opening the pathway to cultivate a relationship with Artemis and embark on a journey of self-empowerment along the way. For instance, Moon begins the book by assuring readers there’s no right or wrong way to proceed, and that the most important thing is to cultivate self-trust. She writes:

“When you trust yourself, you build a relationship that can face all that the wild has to teach you. There is no time in the hunt to go back and forth about every decision. Claim yourself as the wise one you need when it is time to aim.”2

This was just the advice I needed to hear to get me in the right frame of mind to more deeply connect with Artemis, as well as understand on a more personal level what I had been lacking recently–determination, focus, and confidence in my vision. Moon then offers a meditation to meet Artemis in the forest to begin the journey. This is the first of many “magickal practices” that are offered at the end of each chapter for the readers to perform.

Moon’s coverage of Artemis’s birth and family helped me to situate her within my knowledge of Greek mythology. It also introduced me to new goddesses, such as Diktyanna and Eileithya, who Artemis has been linked with at times. Reading direct translation of her mythology (Hymn 3 to Artemis by Callimachus) gave me insight into her personality as someone who knows what they want from life and has the courage to ask for it directly, once again a trait that could use some cultivation in myself.

The many ways Aretmis shows up are described by Moon–nature, the moon, protection, hunting and wild beasts, maidens, sacrifice, and Amazons–painted a well-round picture. Artemis is simultaneously a provider of life and death, birthing and killing, healing and sacrificing all simultaneously. The mythological stories of Artemis further illuminate the wrath of her punishment when transgressed alongside the blessings bestowed to those devoted to her.

Chapters covering Artemis’s symbols and offerings, devotional practices, and cultivating a relationship with the wild and Artemis are perfect for beginners to become acquainted. Moon encourages readers to reflect on what they can give to Artemis beyond the traditional offerings too, suggesting readers provide service and action towards what is important to Her (nature, protecting women) to facilitate a relationship. As Goddess of the Hunt, action is important to building the trust of Artemis for those who wish to be devoted to Her for any length of time.

The chapter on devotional practices goes into detail about cults of Artemis and festivals held in Her honor. Moon also offers chants and epithets too. I particularly liked the magickal practice for this chapter where Moon leads readers through envisioning Artemis in the hunt and then moving their own bodies in the same way, infusing the wild energy in one’s own limbs.

“She knows what it takes to come back into your being. To come back to the wild from which you have been born and created and made. To come back to the sacred hunt that needs you and knows you.”3

For those ready to formalize their relationship with Artemis, Moon shares a full dedication ritual. Meanwhile, she also gives plenty of practical advice for working with a deity, Artemis in particular, for those who are new to it in their spiritual practice. Moon explains how having patience, sitting with one’s fears, and embracing the unknown, are important for readers as they cultivate their connection to Artemis. Once again, Moon’s comforting wisdom comes across as caring and friendly, lacking any hint of pretension or judgment. It’s clear Moon’s aim is to guide readers towards trusting their own instincts as a pathway to better relate to Artemis.

Overall, Pagan Portals – Artemis: Goddess of the Wild Hunt & Sovereign Heart takes readers on  a journey toward fostering a spiritual connection with the goddess Artemis by traversing ancient myths, embracing the wilderness within and without, and seeking the empowerment that comes from aligning with her fierce independence and nurturing care. Moon guides readers to not only discover Artemis in the world around us but also find pieces of Her within themselves too, recognizing our strength, our capacity for growth, and our intrinsic value as protectors of the natural world and each other.

Readers who are ready to step into the role of the hunter, listen to the wisdom of the forest, attune to the cyclic rhythm of the moon, and turn their hearts to the wild will highly enjoy getting to know the untamed spirit of Artemis through Moon’s thoughtful writing. Since finishing this book, I’ve noticed my self-trust has grown, and I am feeling more confident stating my own needs. I do feel like Artemis’s energy comes through quite well in this book, and I hope other readers find it as empowering too! In Artemis, we find not just a deity to admire, but a reflection of our deepest, most powerful selves, calling us to live with authenticity, courage, and compassion in every aspect of our lives.

Healing through Sound, by Vickie Dodd

Healing through Sound: Awakening Your Audible Body, by Vickie Dodd
Findhorn Press, 979-8888500316, 176 pages, April 2024

“Our purpose in sounding is to be restored to our essence, which is liquid.”1

In Healing through Sound: Awakening Your Audible Body, Vickie Dodd presents us with her “sounding” practice, which she has been exploring and developing for over 50 years. As a young girl growing up in a rural town in the United States, Dodd realized that her perceptions of the world seemed to include a lot more than the people around her. She experienced a dazzling array of colors and emotional impressions stemming from other people and the natural world.

Although these experiences were fairly overwhelming at first, young Vickie began to experiment with how using the sounds of her voice could shape and alter these experiences. At only 5 years old, Dodd took her first steps in learning about natural healing from elders in her community, also recognizing how modern medical treatment often appeared to result in further illness. Gradually, her experience and curiosity about how sound may affect the mind, body, and spirit blossomed into a unique healing practice: one which seeks to dissolve emotional energy which has been trapped and stored in the tissues of our bodies.

Healing through Sound is a practical guide for readers to discover and develop the suite of “formulas” essential to this healing art. Dodd repeatedly emphasizes the idea that we should treat the body as a laboratory in which we are constantly practicing our sounding, and experimenting with how various formulas affect us. From the very start, this book comes across as a “try it yourself” book, with several exercises presented in each of the nine chapters. She keeps the core of each exercise simple, providing a bulleted list of guidance and advice, while leaving plenty of room for experimentation. Whether it’s finding your Signature Hum, attuning you to the basic resonance of your body, or layering dissonant frequencies that open you up to the depths of shadow work, Dodd provides a whole toolkit that covers everything from the fundamentals to more advanced work.

The fundamental premise at the core of Dodd’s practice is that frequencies of sound (and even color!) can change the arrangement and behavior of the body’s constituents, even down to the molecular level. The human body is composed of over 70% water, and when our liquid medium is unable to flow easily, this can manifest in psycho-physical-spiritual ills. As the sound/color frequencies loosen the bodily aspect of this healing process takes hold, deep-seated emotions, trauma, and memories that may be stored in the body’s tissues are freed to flow, change, and be let go. A simple analogy is debris in a stream: at a blockage site, more and more debris will build up and the stream may eventually stagnate.

But loosening the body’s tissues is only the surface level of Dodd’s practice: the real key is listening to what arises from the sounding. She often says that the sounding itself is the teacher: unlike modern medical practices where the healer has a specific outcome, a sounding practice is responsive to the present state of the patient’s body-mind-spirit. It’s often not until after a sounding session is complete that the participants really understand what aspect of the patient needed healing. For example, one of Dodd’s patients said that a sounding recreated the folk melodies of his home country (completely unknown to Dodd), opening him up to the realization and release of the homesickness, feeling which had been completely buried in his unconscious.

Using the formulas of sounding creates the conditions so that both practitioner and patient (which may be one and the same) become quiet enough to hear the subtle layers of the human being. But Dodd is explicit that sounding “formulas” are anything but formulaic, since they are always responsive to what’s coming up in the present moment: “mixtures of listening, observing, asking permission, noticing rhythms, timings, shapes, colors, breath, messages from all parts of the body, as well as all our various archetypes, and ages that are encased in this garment called a body.”2 This is one of the fascinating aspects of Dodd’s approach: sounding can touch and affect us at so many levels and modalities, and yet the healing and formulas in any given session may be completely unique!

In many ways, sounding is a true healing art in the fullest sense – a practice which cannot be reduced to any of its constituent parts, nor can any session be simply prescribed to “fix” this or that ailment. This is brought out nowhere more clearly than one of the final examples of the book, where Dodd presented her work at an international academic conference. Although she’d been uncharacteristically nervous about discussing her work in front of so many distinguished scientists, she spontaneously performed a sounding/prayer for the entire conference. This had the visible effect of increasing camaraderie, even evoking tears, among the conference attendees (and we all know how stiff academics can be!).

Not only did Dodd inspire and surprise this conference with her healing art, she also received affirmation and support from the academic community. Dr. Tu, a liaison between China and the Dalai Lama, explained that her practice reflects deep truths found throughout Chinese philosophy, medicine, and science. What’s more, as Dr. Tu translated Dodd’s ideas into more scientific vernacular, many of the conference attendees also affirmed her ideas with respect to their own fields.

Although I would’ve loved to read more about Dr. Tu’s response, the conference was in 1999, before the days when everyone had a video camera in their pocket, so it was not recorded. As a reader who likes to see scientific explanations meshed with the wisdom and practices more intimately connected with (our) nature, this was one of the few areas of Healing through Sound which was lacking. In several places throughout the book, even the basic idea of how sound loosens and lubricates the body’s molecular structures, Dodd appeals to scientific ideas with little discussion of the scientific sources themselves. But readers should also recognize that Dodd in no way intends to provide a comprehensive scientific or theoretical explanation of her practice. This could certainly be an area to expand upon in a future book, or for those in scientific fields to help corroborate the effects of sounding.

Overall, I would enthusiastically recommend Healing through Sound to anyone who wishes to begin or expand their body work practice. I love that Dodd’s methods are incredibly accessible, even for a complete novice – all you need is the sound of your own voice and the willingness to experiment and to listen. Because there is no set outcome or predetermined goal of most sounding exercises, the potential to discover what your mind-body-spirit really needs to heal is ever present. By cultivating receptivity through sounding, the practitioner can avoid the ways our mind can mis-frame or fixate on a certain solution to a perceived problem. And if you’re already an energy / body worker, so much the better, as sounding has great potential to be adapted to and augment your prior practices!

Food for Thought, by Rachel Bartholomew and Mandy Pearson

Food for Thought: Mindful Eating to Nourish Body and Soul, by Rachel Bartholomew and Mandy Pearson
CICO Books, 978-1800653221, 160 pages, April 2024

Recently, I’ve been seeking to change my relationship with food. Instead of jumping into a new food trend or committing to a diet that doesn’t feel maintainable, my focus has been on cultivating new habits by making one little change at a time. Food for Thought: Mindful Eating to Nourish Body and Soul by Rachel Bartholomew and Mandy Pearson has a motivating source of supportive on my journey to changing my eating patterns.

“You may be ready to give your eating habits a complete overhaul straight away, or you may decide to just change one thing to start with. Do tell yourself that whatever you can do right now is right for you in this time and place, and is absolutely worth it.”1

Food for Thought serves as a comprehensive guide to transforming one’s relationship with food through the practice of mindful eating, delving into the philosophy that eating is not just a physical act of nourishment but also an emotional and spiritual experience that can lead to improved health and well-being when done mindfully. The authors, Bartholomew and Pearson, combine their expertise in nutrition and mindfulness to present a harmonious approach to eating. They teach readers that by being fully present during meals, we can achieve a deeper appreciation for the flavors, textures, and overall experience of eating, which can lead to better digestion, reduced overeating, and a more satisfying relationship with food.

This book is filled with practical exercises, thoughtful insights, and easy-to-follow advice aimed at helping readers slow down, savor each bite, and reconnect with their food in a more meaningful way. There’s also plenty of delicious recipes throughout the book, such as a carrot and lentil dip, spiced oatmeal cake with cinnamon and chocolate frosting, falafel with minted yogurt, and slow-cooked lamb salad.

Plus, the colorful pages and easy-to-understand content, enriched with little graphics, make this book not just a resource but an experience as you move through it. There’s plenty of moments to pause, as the authors have included “Mindful Practices”, encouraging readers to stop and savor not only their meals but also the moment and the sensations that come from integrating this information as they read. These practices are perfect for reflection and create the space to truly deepen your connection with the information being presented.

What I like most about the authors’ approach to eating is how they believe we can intuitively know what our body needs. Instead of going to extremes in our eating or obsessively seeking out new information, we can instead learn to listen to our inner voice, and honor what our body is telling us. They write, “Your instinct will often point you in the right direction if you slow down and make space to connect with this inner wisdom.”2 And I’ve found that taking time in the morning and before bed to read a chapter of Food for Thought or taking time to reflect on what I’ve learned–the important of having a direction, staying organized with my meals, affirming new beliefs–helps me to stay on track with my goals.

The well-rounded content brings a level of mindfulness to food triggers, cravings, and lifestyle factors that influence one’s health and eating habits in a way that feels gentle. These topics can feel very painful to acknowledge, especially if they’ve been unconscious while we eat on autopilot mode. But change requires doing a bit of deeper questioning about the way we are fueling ourselves in order to pick more nourishing options. The authors’ approach is compassionate, caring, and very helpful in a practical way, paving the way for this inner work becomes a practice of self-love.

Bartholomew and Pearson also have taught me that making changes to my eating habits is not just about the act of eating–it’s about reshaping one’s entire approach to food. They emphasize the importance of choosing foods that are nourishing to both the body and the soul, advocating for a diet that is as good for the planet as it is for the individual, helps me be more conscious of where I am sourcing my food from, the time (or lack thereof) that I take to prepare it, and the impact of the speed I consume my food and my attention while doing so.

With its blend of nutritional science and mindful living practices, Food for Thought is a valuable resource for anyone looking to foster a healthier, more conscious approach to eating. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner of mindfulness or new to the concept, Bartholomew and Pearson’s insights offer a refreshing perspective on how to enrich your life through the simple act of eating. I recommend this book both for those looking to create more conscious eating habits to enhance their overall well-being and those who are seeking to expand their mindfulness practice to include meal time.

Yoga and the Five Elements, by Nicole Gott

Yoga and the Five Elements: Spiritual Wisdom for Everyday Living, by Nicole Goott
Mantra Books, 978-1803412672, 208 pages, December 2023

“The five elements of earth, water, fire, air and space are easily recognizable as forces existing around us all the time. As with the axion, we are a microcosm of a larger macrocosm, this is true of the five elements existing not only around us in the Natural world but also within us, in both physical and metaphysical terms.1

Yoga and the Five Elements: Spiritual Wisdom for Everyday Living by Nicole Goott is an interesting read that focuses on Eastern practices but can be seamlessly woven into any spiritual practice to make a deeper connection to a fivefold-structure of being. The book is separated into twelve chapters and covers from start to finish a well-structured plan of approach to the subject matter. 

This thoughtful manner of disseminating information is carried out from the start with the addition of a few pages of note regarding Sanskrit and transliteration.This little addition offers accessibility to all regardless of your familiarity with the terminology commonly found in Eastern studies and practices. 

Goott provides the reader background in the Introduction for her seeking of the origins of the five elements as applied to Indian philosophy. I appreciated her story of searching in Martial  Arts practices, Ayurvedic disciplines, Hatha Yoga, as well as Tantric and Vedic literature. This demonstrates a well-intentioned approach rather than the cursory attempts at finding overlays and connections that may not truly be found.

The concluding sections (of more than 20+ pages) are supportive of those readers wishing to explore further and are inclusive of References, Further Reading, a robust Bibliography, Glossary and Index; something not always included as a source of quick reference for a title such as this. 

Chapters 1-3, covering subtle bodies, cosmic principles, and the five elements,  are invaluable resources and lay a dense and comprehensible foundation before moving out into deeper exploration of each of the five elements separately. Chapters dedicated to related concepts and knowledge can be found in “Chapter 7: Mind”, “Chapter 9: Karma”, and “Chapter 10: Space”. Finally, all that has been learned in previous chapters is integrated and put into practical application with “Chapter 11: Balancing the Elements” and “Chapter 12: Heart Consciousness”. 

I especially enjoyed “Chapter 9: Karma” and the way in which Goott has interwoven a concept that has many interpretations and levels of understanding. She dispels the common thoughts around karma and proposes that it is not something over which we have no control because of the “bad “ or “good “ stuff we did. Instead she gives a very hopeful definition:

“Using the analogy of an apple tree… the causal chain begins with a seed (thought) like the seed of an apple (form). This seed is full of potential , holding within itself the possibility to create a new tree (manifested form). It may or may not germinate if the conditions required are not present….when a seed does take root, all the potential that was dormant now begins to ripen. A tree is born (results).”2

She then aligns karma with the element of fire in its aspect as the “light of illumination, wisdom and higher knowledge or insight”3. This reminds the reader of our nature as creator of our own realities and consequential scenarios.

Goott provides charts of comparison of the elements and approach throughout the book, supporting a broader perspective of mind that is not simply limited to the Vedic practices. There are exercises, questions, journaling suggestions and more to allow the reader true experiential moments of the five elements and how their dynamics change depending on the context. And, adequate reference is given to writers such as Annie Besant and the Theosophical spin on the elements, and their use. 

Would I Recommend?

Yoga and the Five Elements is an important read intended to be digested, integrated, put into action and then returned to frequently. Regardless of spiritual practice, the broad approach to the fundamental organic make-up of humanity, the world we inhabit and the Cosmos of which we are a part, provide the tools for stepping more fully into who we are meant to be, especially now as we stand at a crossroads as a species that has increasingly become disconnected from ourselves and others. The quote below beautifully sums up the reasons why this book and its studies are so important, particularly now:

“We can embrace the lessons we are given or resist them. The degree to which we embrace each step along our path determines the level of satisfaction and joy we experience…the more that each of us wakes up to the realization that we are so much more than the brain’s chemical processes and imperfect body, the greater the possibility for the collective consciousness to rise to its fullest potential.”4

About the Author: Nicole Goott

Goott is a teacher, author, advisor, and spiritual healer motivated to guide others in their journey of self-discovery and how to live a joy-filled life. Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Nicole moved to the United States when she was twenty-four years old. For two decades she has studied Yoga, Ayurveda, and related healing arts practices, as well as mindfulness-based approaches to self-healing. Learn more about Nicole’s work at her website.

The Medicine Wheel, by Barry Goddard

The Medicine Wheel: Maps of Transformation, Wholeness and Balance, by Barry Goddard
Moon Books, 1785359673, 320 pages, October 2022

“This book is not just another ‘self-help’ guide, but rather an exploration of an ancient map that shows how human beings and the world work..”1

The quote above expresses the intention of The Medicine Wheel: Maps of Transformation, Wholeness and Balance by Barry Goddard and is a reminder for humanity of the intimate connection we have with nature and the cosmos. I had the privilege of reviewing Goddard’s other title, Surfing the Galactic Highways: Adventures in Divinatory Astrology, and as a result, I had a deep interest in seeing the approach he would take to this topic. I was not disappointed.

The Medicine Wheel is divided into eight chapters and provides the reader with information that is readily accessible and usable. The acknowledgments in the beginning of the book hold a special meaning in the sincerity and care given to how this topic is presented:

“I would like to express my gratitude to the indigenous peoples everywhere for hanging on to their ancient ways and teachings, despite our modern attempts to eradicate them.2

“Chapter 1: Introducing the Wheel” provides a bit of background around how Goddard encountered the Medicine Wheel and shares his transition from the perspective of Buddhist practice and the new pathways opened in his studies of Shamanism. He writes:

“Shamanism with its foundation in the sense of being part of a world that is alive and to be cherished, provided the remedy for myself, and I believe can do so for the same imbalance in the culture at large.3

Additionally, Goddard also addresses the concerns around “cultural appropriation” that have evolved around many wisdom practices. He offers the reminder that everything of value has a point of origin that may not be of the individual’s heritage but how that content is represented and shared is the more important way of approach and enables the wisdom contained within to be brought into the world more broadly.

As you move through each of the chapters, there is a sense of being part of a grand exploration of revealing the nature of the worlds surrounding as well as the inner landscape that holds the Medicine Wheel organically within. And, although there are many ways in which the Medicine Wheel may be used and inclusive of additional components, Goddard offers use of the Wheel in its four simplified aspects aligning with the elements and cardinal directions of East, South, West and North.

“It is somewhat artificial to talk about each direction on its own, because they are inter-related, and no direction can be grasped without the light shed on it by the other directions. At the same time, the Wheel does have a movement  that gathers momentum and wisdom as it rotates on its path from East through South and West to North, and back to East again. This turning describes the whole arc of our life, as well as the many turnings on different levels within the course of our lives.4

Each of the subsequent chapters devotes its entirety to one of these elements. One can find the subtle references to his knowledge of astrological concepts in these chapters which are robust with varying correlates and fresh perspectives on what the composition of each of the elements may be beyond any tradition’s approach. “Chapter 2: The East-Initiation” provides discussion of this place of the rising sun and new beginnings as also a place of the magical child, courage and a space of major transformative change; “Chapter 3: The South-Emotional Awakening” deepens down into innocence, trust and the shadow nature; “Chapter 4: The West-Incarnation” opens the reader to relationships, gender and transgender and relationships; and “Chapter 5: The North-Perspective” carries the reader to the place of their own legacy and how that is affected by concepts of ageism, becoming the teacher and community.

For those readers who wish to add more of the complexity of the Medicine Wheel, “Chapter 6: The Non-Cardinal Directions” fills that desire. We now find a Wheel of eight directions corresponding to those directional spaces between the established E – S – W – N.  These tell more of the chronology associated with the Wheel moving from the East of the Child and coming finally to the North of the Elder and soon to be Ancestor. Although one of the shorter chapters, it is rich with enhancements.

“Chapter 7: Using the Wheel” brings the reader now to the point of actualizing all that gained of knowledge from the previous chapters. If not skipped ahead to, this very brief few pages provides the final integration to begin effective and meaningful personal work with the Wheel.

The concluding “Chapter 8: Correlations-Jung’s Typology, Archetypes, Astrology and the Mandorla” is the finishing touch meant to further whet the appetite of those wishing to extract more from working with the Medicine Wheel. 

The Bibliography includes some great recommendations, as well as relevant films and documentaries. Overall, The Medicine Wheel hits multiple checkboxes well beyond the traditional writings about the Medicine Wheel and its applications in spiritual practice.

Would I Recommend?

One of the many things I love about Goddard’s writing style is the vastness of interwoven disciplines that are evident in his works. The Medicine Wheel is another title that offers the reader multiple paths of established resonance, as well as new avenues to claim and explore.

There is a wonderfully integrated underpinning of psychological basis for this work with the Medicine Wheel and in this way, this book becomes a deep dive into revealing the nuances and complexities of the individual’s psyche and aligning it with spiritual growth and personal practice. And, most importantly, the clear message is that of our interconnectedness to each other and the world we have chosen for this incarnation’s lessons.

About the Author: Barry Goddard

In his twenties and thirties Barry was engaged in Buddhist practice, but for the last 25 years the main currents have been astrology and shamanism. He regularly writes blogs and Facebook posts about both shamanism and astrology, to which he brings a fresh and sometimes controversial perspective. He also does astrology readings and runs courses on Shamanism. He has recently written a book about astrology, Surfing The Galactic Highways Adventures in Divinatory Astrology. Barry lives on Dartmoor in Devon, UK.

The Persistence of the Soul, by Mark Ireland

The Persistence of the Soul:  Mediums, Spirit Visitations, and Afterlife Communication, by Mark Ireland
Inner Traditions, 9781644117187, 288 pages, October 2023 

Mark Ireland’s book, The Persistence of the Soul:  Mediums, Spirit Visitations, and Afterlife Communication, marks his journey from the death of his 18-year-old son to the creation of a group to support grieving parents called Helping Parents Heal. Ireland is the son of famous psychic Medium Richard Ireland, who was a medium to the stars in Hollywood. Ireland grew up going to many of his father’s meetings and appointments. After the passing of his own son, Ireland decided to do research and learn more about psychic phenomenon and after-death communication. 

This is his second book on this topic; he has also published a manuscript written by his father.  He runs a medium certification program where he tests mediums in blind studies. You can learn more about this at his website.

In his “Note to Readers” Ireland does a great job of laying out the book, offering several different ways to enjoy the material. He lets you know that the book is about real people and real situations and that real names have been used. He begins the Introduction with his son Brandon’s story and shares his journey of grief. He also shares a story about his conversation with a woman who came to him during her grief:

“I explained that I had written down my feelings, visited with close friends and relatives, and openly shared my emotions with other people. I told her that writing about my son and telling people about his nature as a person, allowed me to purge my feelings–fully exposing them and embracing the essence of my grief. Family members, Brandon’s friends and I each wrote a letter to him, explaining what we loved about him and how much he meant in our lives.”1

Ireland goes on to say that he wrote Brandon’s eulogy and began writing a series of emails that became the basis for his first book. Soon he began to share these practical tips as well as refer people to mediums that he knew and trusted. In 2011, he founded the group Helping Parents Heal, which now has 24,000 members.2

This book has a little of everything, ranging from research and history to personal stories of people that have lost children, siblings, or other friends and family members. The chapter titled “Psychic Phenomena and Mediumship in Religion and History” is a chronicle of everything you need to know about this subject. Within this chapter he hopes to “address the fear and apprehension that some people harbor towards psychic phenomena and spirit communication as a result of their religious upbringing.”3 It was interesting to learn that his father never really understood the fear and negative connotations of mediumship. Ireland is interested in not only understanding this fear but also dispelling it for the grieving people that he ministers to.

In another chapter, Ireland presents his thoughts on reincarnation and includes a personal story of a conversation he and his dad had when he was between three and four years old. In this conversation Ireland recounts a past life where he lived a full life and died at 83.

Ireland also sprinkles in information about research and scientific studies regarding mediumship. Early in the book he quotes Julie Beishel, Ph.D. who is director of the Windbridge Research Center. The results of her study indicate that mediumship readings may be helpful for grieving people. Beishel relates:

“The combination of traditional psychotherapy and mediumship readings may prove to be more beneficial than either intervention separately. … Spontaneous and induced ADCs (after-death communications) can have tremendous impacts on the grieving process, and my observations as well as pilot data we collected at Windbridge suggest similar positive effects after readings with mediums.”4

My favorite chapter is the one entitled “Robin’s Flight”. Ireland tells the story of his sister Robin– her diagnosis with pancreatic cancer and the journey they took together before her death. Although he had only previously read about deathbed visions and near-death experiences, he came to know first-hand about both through his sister and her passing.

I love the structure of the book and the personal stories of actual people that are woven throughout the narrative. With the Table of Contents, the reader has a great way to refer to chapters or passages of interest. He also includes a nine-page index with additional ways to find information, people, or stories. Additionally, Ireland includes a section called “References” which is a type of bibliography, where you can go to find more specific information. The book is easy to navigate and easy to read. It is written in a conversational style that is almost like sitting across the desk from Ireland himself.

The Persistence of the Soul is great for anyone who is interested in mediumship or after-death communication. It would also be a comfort for someone who is grieving a loss. The stories that Ireland shares of hope and optimism are very encouraging. I plan to give this book to a friend of mine who is beginning her training to become a psychic medium. I feel that the book will inspire her on her journey to learn how to support those who are grieving.

Your Book of Shadows, by Cerridwen Green leaf

Your Book of Shadows: Make Your Own Magical Habit Tracker, by Cerridwen Greenleaf
CICO Books, 1800652968, 144 pages, April 2024

Mastering your magic takes time, focus, and dedication. Especially when just starting a magical journey, navigating the vast and intricate world of spells, rituals, and energies can quickly feel like uncharted territory. Getting to know what works best for you is a practice of trial and error, a journey where each misstep is as crucial as every success. In Your Book of Shadows: Make Your Own Magical Habit Tracker, Cerridwen Greenleaf teaches readers all they need to know about tracking their own magical practice, refining it by figuring out what did and did not work well, in order to chronicle a repertoire of the wisdom gained from magical experimentation.

Right off the bat, I was drawn to this book for the bright colors and many images throughout the pages. Each section is short and sweet, covering the necessities while creating the space to engage with the book by performing the suggested spells and rituals along the way. The layout of the content makes it easy to engage with the text as you move through the book–there’s a lot of places for your eyes to roam, helping your mind to take in Greenleaf’s wisdom through the sensory appeal of color, font style, and text organization. The design of the book makes me feel inspired, playful, and crafty!

Greenleaf begins by covering the history of Books of Shadows and their importance to a coven or solo practitioner. She then moves into how to choose and design your Book of Shadows, consecrating and protecting your Book of Shadows (as well as creating a shrine), and creating organization through a Table of Contents. She offers advice on how to select a book, decorate it, and keep it magically protected.

As one moves through the process of creating their own Book of Shadows, Greenleaf provides easy-to-follow rituals and spells  to assist with the process: a ritual of thanks, inscription rite,  pendulum spell for choosing the right book, self-assurance charm for creativity when decorating, and safeguarding spell to clear away unwanted energy from your Book of Shadows. There’s also parts on color magic (one focusing on the associations of each color and the other a correspondence chart of each zodiac sign with colors), along with crafting tips for adding pages and creating a book lock.

“… making a Book of Shadows is a very personal endeavor–let go of that fear of making mistakes. Always remember that perfection can be boring–something that is real and unique is much more appealing and special. Keep an open heart and mind, and your Book of Shadows can become a stunningly beautiful work of art.”1

Greenleaf’s emphasis on personalization is particularly noteworthy, encouraging readers to see their Book of Shadows as a living document that evolves with their spiritual journey. This approach not only helps one to build confidence in one’s practice but also makes the process of creating and maintaining a Book of Shadows a deeply personal and fulfilling endeavor.

The following chapters cover cyclical energies of nature that can influence one’s magical practice. Greenleaf first writes about moon spells, specifically focusing on the phases of the moon. For each phase, she gives an overview of the best type of spellwork to do at that time, a table of magical correspondences for the energy of the phase (days, colors, herbs, incense, essential oils, crystals, and metals), and a spell, ritual, or magical craft one can do for that phase.

For instance, Greenleaf describes how new moons are best for new beginnings and offers an incantation for new ideas, while noting waning moons are a “time to conserve our power, to turn our attention towards home and inner peace and wisdom”2 and sharing a recipe for spiritual scrub to cleanse energies from one’s home or ritual space.

Next, Greenleaf covers The Wheel of the Year. Beginning with the Celtic New Year, the high holiday Samhain, she details the eight sabbats, sharing recipes, rituals, divination spells, prayers to the god and goddess, and more. The descriptions of each sabbat aren’t too long, just an introduction, but each one contains enough information for readers to familiarize themselves with the energy of The Wheel of the Year to then further their own practice.

Now that readers have an understanding of the quick-paced moon cycle and the overarching Wheel of the Year, Greenleaf delves deeper into astrological energies. She describes the twelve zodiac signs, along with the correspondence stone for each time period. Later in the chapter, she also provides herbal correspondence for every sign too.

There’s also a very helpful table of the magical planetary hours, which shows the ruling planet for every hour throughout the week. This table is extremely useful for those who are at the level of fine-tuning their spell work to correspond with specific planetary energies, such as doing a love spell during Venus hours or an abundance spell during Jupiter hours. Greenleaf also delves into the elemental power of signs, highlighting which each element is best suited to perform certain magic.

There’s an entire chapter to tracking your magic as a solo practitioner too. Greenleaf recognizes that it can be hard to find community at times or that one might want to keep some matters private, but she still assures readers they can grow their magical practice through their personal Book of Shadows. She advises “keeping a list of personal intentions”3 as these are the key to success in magic. She shares a visualization to create an inner temple, how to make your own DIY wand, meditations for centering yourself, and a candle ceremony to invoke a deity

Then the final chapter is a real gem because it is filled with different correspondences to help readers discover more about subtle energies. There’s a list of trees and what else one can assist with spiritually; flower, herb, essential oil, and color correspondences; correspondences and enhancement abilities for gems, stones, and crystals; totem animal correspondences; significance of numerology; planet correspondences and colors; metal magical correspondences; and a list of magical domains and deities one can work with.

Overall, Your Book of Shadows is a compelling guide for those embarking on or furthering their journey into the realm of witchcraft, Wicca, or other pagan paths. This book serves not just as an introduction to aspects of these spiritual paths, but as an interactive tool, encouraging readers to actively engage with their practice by creating their own Book of Shadows. Greenleaf skillfully demystifies the process of starting a Book of Shadows, presenting it in a way that is both inviting and profound, providing all the essential guidance and spellwork readers need to take this step of connecting with their magical practice on a deeper level.

Lessons from the Afterlife, by Matthew McKay, PhD.

Lessons from the Afterlife: A Deep Knowledge Meditation Guidebook, by Matthew McKay, PhD.
Park Street Press, 9781644119402, 142 pages, April 2024

In this beautiful book, Matthew McKay shares channeled messages from his son Jordan, who passed from this life at age 23. He has titled this information Lessons from the Afterlife and not only gives us the messages, but he also tells us how to go into a type of meditation that he calls “Deep Knowledge Meditation”1. In this deep, meditative state, you may also obtain answers to a question or receive guidance. It’s a way to work with the book, as well as use it later for guidance about life’s problems.

McKay Is both a clinical psychologist and professor of psychology. He co-founded the Bay Area Trauma Recovery Clinic, where he works with clients and trains graduate students, as well. McKay has authored or coauthored more than 40 books. This is the fourth book he has channeled from Jordan. McKay has also published a novel and two poetry books. He resides in Berkeley, CA.

In the introduction, McKay tells the story of Jordan’s death, which was a senseless shooting in San Francisco. He also shares, “I began instinctively searching for Jordan, and he started reaching out to me, within a few weeks of his death …. He made himself known in waking visions (once for me and for several others) as well as through messages from mediums, musicians, and psychically attuned friends.”2

To deal with his immense grief, McKay consulted a past life regressionist, a psychologist who taught him a technique to talk with Jordan, and a medium who “gave me the greatest gift I’ve ever received — the ability to communicate at will with the dead.”3

McKay shares how to practice Deep Knowledge Meditation in the opening pages of the book. This prepares the reader for reviewing the channeled information from Jordan and then utilizing the prompts on the facing page. The workbook is structured in seven sections, each containing a page of beautiful prose from Jordan and a facing page of questions and prompts for your own exploration.  In the Appendix, the author shares more information on channeling, from how to do it, to questions to ask and “things not to ask for while channeling.”4

In his communications with Jordan, McKay learned that Jordan uses the term “All” to represent God, which he describes as: 

“All is God but not the conventional idea of God – a perfect, all-powerful entity that created and is the prime cause of all events on Earth. All created the material universe… All is neither perfect nor all-powerful. All is learning and evolving. All constantly grows in knowledge and awareness, and much of what All learns comes from us – souls who incarnate into the physical universe.”5

With this introduction to All, the author begins the journal with prose from Jordan regarding how All “sets the Universe in motion but doesn’t exert control over the events of our lives.”6 On the facing page, the reader sees four questions or prompts for personal exploration. At this point, you are invited to practice Deep Knowledge Meditation and ponder the questions. 

I did an experiment with the book and asked All to share a passage with me that would most benefit me at this point of my life. I picked up the book and opened it to page 28, which is entitled “Why All Creates.”  After reading Jordan’s channeled information, I reviewed the prompts and sat with pen and paper. What I learned was both surprising and calming.  After answering the questions posed, I was filled with the knowledge that it is okay for me to be different from my ancestors and family of origin. It is not only okay, but it is my right and that The Great All is rooting for me! This answer came from very deep inside my being and it has grounded me in a new way.

The book is very easy to read and simple to navigate. You might want to pick it up and read it from front to back, or you might want to look at the Table of Contents and select a section and a topic.  For example, if you want to explore the concept of Time, you can look at that section and choose a topic like “When Time Stops” or “Observing History.” The book is a nice size to put into your backpack or carrying case to enjoy anywhere.

Lessons from the Afterlife would be great for anyone who wants to explore the concept of God, how we came to be on Earth, and other philosophical questions. Someone who is grieving may also find comfort in this book, as the channeled information came from the author’s deceased son. McKay’s journey to reach and communicate with Jordan really helped him grieve:

“The heavy stones of grief lifted a bit. Jordan still existed; his love continued to be a force in our world. I could feel it.”7

Also, anyone who is interested in mediumship or communication with those on the other side would benefit from this book. The steps to channeling are concise and so helpful. I plan to keep this book on hand to share passages with clients who are grieving or struggling with life. The journal prompts are a fantastic way to talk with the Divine or your own Soul to get guidance and encouragement.  As McKay says:

“Remember that what Jordan says is just a spark, a place to begin your own process of discovery. Let the questions germinate and open your mind. The truth is in you; it is in each individual soul.”8

Embody Your Inner Goddess, by Lauren Leduc

Embody Your Inner Goddess: A Guided Journey to Radical Wholeness, by Lauren Leduc
O-Books, 180341362X, 216 pages, December 2023

The changes in our society are opening new doorways to break the mold and discover what it truly means to be a woman without the societal condition hampering our spiritual pursuits. Increasingly, this is leading people to acknowledge the long overlooked feminine aspect of divinity. Embody Your Inner Goddess: A Guided Journey to Radical Wholeness by Lauren Leduc is a gateway for readers to deepen their spiritual connection to themselves by learning to listen to and honor the goddess within through exercises that awaken the sacred connection to the divine feminine.

It’s one thing to know the names of goddesses such as Aphrodite, Kali, Hecate, The Morrigan, and more, or perhaps going a step further, to have a relationship with a goddess, which is often part of one’s magical work. But what about your own sacred divinity? This is the real gold of this book–discovering more about what  makes your spirit unique. Leduc describes the Inner Goddess as “your personified personal connection to the sacred feminine… In her infinite power, wisdom, and compassion, she is YOUR higher self.”1

The core of the book rests on the premise that everyone possesses an inner goddess – an innate strength, wisdom, and compassion that guides us through life. The chapters are then structured to help readers peel back the layers of societal conditioning and self-doubt that often obscure this powerful inner truth. As you progress through the chapters, the journey becomes deeply personal. The exercises prompt introspection and self-exploration, allowing for a unique and intimate connection with one’s inner goddess. This process is aimed at fostering a sense of wholeness, where the reader learns to harmonize their mind, body, and spirit.

“Your life is a sacred journey and I invite you to leave no stone on this path unturned. I invite you to break past your walls that you have built to protect yourself and let the world see the beauty of your vulnerability. To let it be messy. To let it be ugly. To let it be human. Invite every part of you to the dance of life. Embrace all versions of you, past, present, and future, and bathe in her wisdom.”2

Leduc guides the readers through 49 days of inner transformation based on the chakra system. Starting with the root chakra and culminating with the crown chakra, each day there is a new affirmation related to the chakra of the week. As Leduc shares her own stories to paint a picture of what the meaning of the affirmation is intended to convey, she also talks directly to readers, inspiring them to take a look at their lives and own their power. She’ll often use the word “sister”, making it feel like she’s speaking right to you and there’s a special bond. I like her direct address, as it did wake me up to the words a bit more.

Following the insight related to the affirmation of the day, there is a reflection and an embodiment practice. The reflection is questions you can ask yourself for further clarity, while the embodiment practice is something actively do to integrate the energy. I really enjoy the reflection questions as I used them for my journal prompts to keep me on track for the full 49 days of reading this book. It’s easy to want to skip ahead to the next chapter, or likewise skip a day and tell myself I’ll catch up later. But I feel like making the commitment to move through it as intended, one day at a time, helped to create the space to honor their journey. The reading, reflection, and embodiment practice is quick enough to do daily and helps to attune me to my inner self each day. 

At the start of each week, when there is a new chakra introduced, Leduc goes into detail about the chakra and how it relates to the stage of the journey. While some might be skeptical of chakras, Leduc even addresses this in her introduction, I found the organization around the chakra system to be very impactful and intuitive. I have enjoyed focusing on balancing a chakra each week, and I notice a shift when it’s time to move onto the next chakra! I haven’t completed the full 49 days yet, but I’m making my way through quite content.

Currently, I am in Solar Plexus Chakra week. And more specifically, today, I am on “Day 17: I Am Strong AF”. Leduc describes her experience cultivating inner and outer strength, encouraging readers to overcome resistance by dedicating their inner strength to something bigger than themselves. She writes:

“Goddess, you, your life, your purpose are worth fighting for. By stepping up to life’s challenges, you are creating fertile soil to blossom and grow.”3

The reflection questions focused on what makes me feel strong vs. what makes me feel weak, as well as prompting reflection on resistances that I’ve overcome in the past that ultimately made me stronger. And the embodiment practice? PLANKS! Not my favorite, that’s for sure. 😝 But as I held the plank, I felt my core engaged and gained confidence in my own strength. This one is actually a five-day practice, so I guess I’ll be working on these planks in addition to the other embodiment practices for the rest of the week!

Overall, Embody Your Inner Goddess is a transformative book that beckons readers on a profound journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Crafted with the intention of guiding individuals towards embracing their fullest potential, this book is not just a read; it’s an experience. Through a carefully curated blend of personal anecdotes and practical exercises, Leduc opens readers with the divine feminine energy within, encouraging a radical acceptance and celebration of self. Readers will find this book a great companion on their path to self-realization and empowerment; it’s perfect for those ready to deepen their spiritual connection with themselves and live a life of authenticity and purpose.