There’s a reason the story of Cinderella lingers in our bones. Beneath the soot, the glass slipper, and the pumpkin-turned-chariot lies an ancient memory. A memory of the soul’s exile, longing, and return.

Tonight, we’re not reading a children’s fairy tale. We’re whispering open a door to the sacred. Anne Baring’s breathtaking interpretation reveals Cinderella as an echo of lost goddess traditions, Gnostic myth, and the wounded feminine hidden deep inside the human psyche. This is the story of the soul forgotten in the ashes, the Divine Mother disguised as a fairy godmother, and the holy marriage between Spirit and Matter, waiting to be reawakened inside you.

In this dreamlike descent, you’ll trace Cinderella’s soot-stained journey through ancient Sumer, Gnostic lamentations, and the shimmering wisdom of the Song of Songs. You’ll see why the gown of light and the lost slipper are not just symbols of enchantment, but the soul’s own cry for reunion with the Source. This episode is a spell, a remembering, an initiation. Press play, close your eyes, and step into the ashes. The gold is buried there.

Read the original article by Anne Baring here.

CONNECT WITH ME + CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To dive deeper into these themes and explore more of my original work, follow my other podcast, Back From The Borderline, on your favorite podcast player or visit backfromtheborderline.com. You can also connect with me on Instagram @backfromtheborderline, where I share my favorite reads, tools, and all things inner alchemy.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this deeply nurturing guided meditation, I invite you on a transformative journey that transcends the mere biological aspects of pregnancy and childbirth. This is a sacred visualization designed to help you tap into the ancient, intuitive knowledge your body holds, empowering you to trust its natural birthing capabilities. This audio journey draws from the esoteric and mythic traditions that view the act of physiological birth as a powerful rite of passage, an initiation into the profound role of motherhood. Whether you're preparing for childbirth, envisioning it in your future, or supporting someone on this journey, this episode will help you cultivate a deep sense of trust in your body. This meditation is versatile, offering support not only before and during pregnancy but also during labor itself, helping you move through contractions with calm and confidence. I recorded this meditation in the eighth month of my own pregnancy with my first child, bringing all of my love and intention into it with the hope that it can support others on their journey. Drawing on the principles of Hypnobirthing and the pioneering work of Grantly Dick-Read, this practice dismantles the fear-tension-pain cycle, replacing it with strength and an unwavering belief in your body's wisdom. Through the protective embrace of the Black Madonna and the powerful affirmations that conclude this guided visualization, you will be guided to embrace the light and dark within, readying yourself for the sacred act of birth with grace and confidence. Join me as we honor the spiritual significance of childbirth and prepare for the miraculous journey ahead.

Disclaimer: To make the most of this episode, please refer to the timestamps below. The episode begins with an introduction that covers the purpose and principles of the meditation, including an explanation of the fear-tension-pain cycle. This foundational knowledge can significantly enhance your experience, particularly on your first listen. For subsequent sessions, you may wish to skip directly to the meditation portion by jumping to the indicated timestamp. Repeated listens will deepen the meditation's impact, so feel free to revisit the introduction anytime you need a refresher.

Timestamps:

• Introduction and explanation of the fear-tension-pain cycle: 00:00 – 9:38
• Guided visualization and affirmations (skip here for re-listens): 9:40 – 37:38

CONNECT WITH ME + CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To dive deeper into these themes and explore more of my original work, follow my other podcast, Back From The Borderline, on your favorite podcast player or visit backfromtheborderline.com. You can also connect with me on Instagram @backfromtheborderline, where I share my favorite reads, tools, and all things inner alchemy.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever wondered about the true magic behind the summer solstice? Join me for a mesmerizing journey into the heart of Litha, also known as Midsummer, as we uncover the profound significance of the longest day of the year. Imagine yourself in a serene summer forest, the gentle rustling of leaves and the melodious songs of birds setting the perfect backdrop for an evening of enchantment and discovery. In this episode, I delve into the rich history and cultural significance of ancient summer solstice celebrations. From the celestial alignments of Stonehenge and Chichen Itza to the vibrant rituals of Celtic, Nordic, and Slavic traditions, you'll learn how our ancestors honored the sun and ensured abundant harvests. We'll explore the transition from pagan festivities to the Christianized celebrations of St. John's Day, offering a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of these timeless traditions. You'll also be captivated by the mythological tales surrounding the solstice. Discover the legends of the Oak King and the Holly King in British mythology, the return of Ra in Egyptian lore, and the roles of Kronos, Apollo, and Dionysus in Greek celebrations. As we journey through the mystical realm of faeries in Celtic mythology and the enchanting rituals of Norse Midsommar, you'll see how these stories continue to inspire wonder and reflection. But that's not all. This episode also explores the powerful rituals and traditions that make the solstice a time of transformation and renewal. From the purifying flames of bonfires and the symbolic rolling of the flaming wheel to the divinatory practices of Kupala Night and the healing waters of holy wells, you'll gain insights into the deep spiritual and symbolic themes of this magical time. By the end of this episode, you'll feel more connected to the natural cycles, inspired to embrace personal growth, and ready to celebrate the profound gifts of the summer solstice. Don't miss out on this enchanting exploration—tune in and let the magic of Litha illuminate your path.

YOUR FAVORITE MYSTICAL BEDTIME STORY PODCAST: Can’t sleep? This adult bedtime story podcast invites you to escape the burdens of sleeplessness and immerse yourself in a mystical world of relaxation and enchantment. Sometimes our weary minds need a break from the endless scrolling that often accompanies insomnia. Each episode allows you to unwind and prepare to embrace deep sleep while awakening to arcane wisdom at the same time. Designed to alleviate nighttime anxiety, each audio journey will offer an oasis of serenity amidst the chaos of the waking world. Choose to embrace restful sleep or enjoy a conscious, meditative state—it's your choice. Prepare to be transported to a realm where dreams and relaxation intertwine. Bid farewell to restless nights and awaken to a newfound sense of peace and rejuvenation.

CONNECT WITH ME + CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To dive deeper into these themes and explore more of my original work, follow my other podcast, Back From The Borderline, on your favorite podcast player or visit backfromtheborderline.com. You can also connect with me on Instagram @backfromtheborderline, where I share my favorite reads, tools, and all things inner alchemy.

Disclaimer: episodes of Night Night, Bitch are for the purpose of research, study, entertainment, meditation, sleep, and discussion. The views and opinions expressed in each episode belong to the original author(s)/creator(s)/speaker(s) and may not necessarily reflect those of Night Night, Bitch, its host, or its affiliates.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me as we delve into a rare and enlightening lecture by the legendary scholar and mystic, Manly P. Hall. In this episode, I will be reading Hall’s 1924 lecture titled 'Fundamental Errors in Modern Occultism (And Their Remedy).' This lecture reveals the stark contrasts Hall observed between the empty promises of modern occult practices and the disciplined wisdom of ancient traditions. As we explore this discourse, you’ll uncover the paths the ancients believed would lead to true wisdom through the careful cultivation of one’s consciousness. This episode provides a unique opportunity to connect with a piece of mystical history that remains relevant in today’s spiritual landscape. Tune in and let the insights of Manly P. Hall enrich your understanding of spiritual discipline and personal growth. SELECTED READING: "Fundamental Errors of Modern Occultism (And Their Remedy)" Lecture by Manly P. Hall [copyright May 1924]

YOUR FAVORITE MYSTICAL BEDTIME STORY PODCAST: Can’t sleep? This adult bedtime story podcast invites you to escape the burdens of sleeplessness and immerse yourself in a mystical world of relaxation and enchantment. Sometimes our weary minds need a break from the endless scrolling that often accompanies insomnia. Each episode allows you to unwind and prepare to embrace deep sleep while awakening to arcane wisdom at the same time. Designed to alleviate nighttime anxiety, each audio journey will offer an oasis of serenity amidst the chaos of the waking world. Choose to embrace restful sleep or enjoy a conscious, meditative state—it's your choice. Prepare to be transported to a realm where dreams and relaxation intertwine. Bid farewell to restless nights and awaken to a newfound sense of peace and rejuvenation.

CONNECT WITH ME + CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To dive deeper into these themes and explore more of my original work, follow my other podcast, Back From The Borderline, on your favorite podcast player or visit backfromtheborderline.com. You can also connect with me on Instagram @backfromtheborderline, where I share my favorite reads, tools, and all things inner alchemy.

Disclaimer: episodes of Night Night, Bitch are for the purpose of research, study, entertainment, meditation, sleep, and discussion. The views and opinions expressed in each episode belong to the original author(s)/creator(s)/speaker(s) and may not necessarily reflect those of Night Night, Bitch, its host, or its affiliates.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this multi-episode series, we explore the ancient fairy tale "The Handless Maiden," collected by the Brothers Grimm in 1812, through the lens of astrologer and mystic Jessica Davidson's brilliant online essays. The story follows a young woman whose father, in a desperate deal with the devil, sacrifices her hands for wealth and convenience. Her subsequent journey through the forest in search of healing reflects the "dark night of the soul" process—a transformative period where individuals confront their deepest wounds and emerge renewed. Through this series, we'll read each of Jessica Davidson's articles as we uncover the tale's profound themes of betrayal, loss, and redemption, exploring how it serves as an archetypal guide for healing and transformation. By understanding the characters as aspects of our own psyche, we'll see how "The Handless Maiden" offers valuable insights into reclaiming our feeling nature, healing old wounds, and finding wholeness in times of darkness.

Covered in Part 4 (Final Episode): In this last and final episode of our series, we explore the final chapters of "The Handless Maiden" through the themes of "Wandering and Waiting" and "Inner Marriage." In "Wandering and Waiting," the queen, now with silver hands and a newborn child, is forced to leave the castle due to the devil's manipulative schemes. She returns to the forest, guided by an angel to a cottage bearing the sign "Here All Dwell Free." Here, a maiden in white cares for her every need. For seven years, the queen lives in solitude, regaining her instinctual nature and reconnecting with her soul. Her tears of devotion to her child lead to the miraculous regrowth of her hands, symbolizing her reclaimed sovereignty and authentic touch on life. In "Inner Marriage," the king returns from war only to discover his wife and child missing. Devastated, he wanders the forest for seven years, veiling his face in grief. Finally, he arrives at the cottage where the queen resides and, guided by spirit, is reunited with his wife and son. This sacred marriage represents the harmonious union of the conscious and unconscious, where the king and queen embody a balanced partnership of the masculine and feminine within the psyche. Join me as we uncover how this final episode reveals the transformative journey of the king and queen, their seven-year wanderings through the forest, and the union that brings their fractured souls back together. We'll discuss the profound archetypal themes of healing, rebirth, and the sacred marriage, culminating in the ultimate integration of the self through the dark night of the soul.

SELECTED READING: “The Handless Maiden: Healing a Dark Night of the Soul” (online essay series by Jessica Davidson – accessible via https://jessicadavidson.co.uk/.)

CONNECT WITH ME + CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To dive deeper into these themes and explore more of my original work, follow my other podcast, Back From The Borderline, on your favorite podcast player or visit backfromtheborderline.com. You can also connect with me on Instagram @backfromtheborderline, where I share my favorite reads, tools, and all things inner alchemy.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this multi-episode series, we explore the ancient fairy tale "The Handless Maiden," collected by the Brothers Grimm in 1812, through the lens of astrologer and mystic Jessica Davidson's brilliant online essays. The story follows a young woman whose father, in a desperate deal with the devil, sacrifices her hands for wealth and convenience. Her subsequent journey through the forest in search of healing reflects the "dark night of the soul" process—a transformative period where individuals confront their deepest wounds and emerge renewed. Through this series, we'll read each of Jessica Davidson's articles as we uncover the tale's profound themes of betrayal, loss, and redemption, exploring how it serves as an archetypal guide for healing and transformation. By understanding the characters as aspects of our own psyche, we'll see how "The Handless Maiden" offers valuable insights into reclaiming our feeling nature, healing old wounds, and finding wholeness in times of darkness.

Covered in Part 3: In the third episode of our series, we delve into "Love in the Underworld," where the maiden, now in the king's orchard, encounters a new chapter of her journey. The king discovers her presence in his garden and captivated by her spirit, marries her despite her bloody stumps. He has silver hands crafted for her, elevating her to the status of queen. However, this new union, symbolizing the sacred marriage between conscious and unconscious, remains incomplete due to the artificiality of the silver hands. We then follow her journey further into the underworld with "The Devil Returns." Despite her newfound love and status, the king is called away to war, leaving his mother to care for the queen, who is now expecting a child. As the devil manipulates messages between the queen and the king, attempting to sow chaos and destruction, the king's mother sees through the trickery and helps the queen flee with her newborn son. Join me as we explore how this episode reveals the maiden's journey toward reconciling her instinctual feminine wisdom with a patriarchal world. We'll discuss the symbolism of the silver hands and how they reflect the disconnect between one's soul and societal expectations. Through the guidance of the king's mother and the persistent attacks of the devil, we'll uncover the archetypal themes of betrayal, renewal, and the struggle for authenticity amidst darkness.

SELECTED READING: “The Handless Maiden: Healing a Dark Night of the Soul” (online essay series by Jessica Davidson – accessible via https://jessicadavidson.co.uk/.)

CONNECT WITH ME + CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To dive deeper into these themes and explore more of my original work, follow my other podcast, Back From The Borderline, on your favorite podcast player or visit backfromtheborderline.com. You can also connect with me on Instagram @backfromtheborderline, where I share my favorite reads, tools, and all things inner alchemy.

Disclaimer: episodes of Night Night, Bitch are for the purpose of research, study, entertainment, meditation, sleep, and discussion. The views and opinions expressed in each episode belong to the original author(s)/creator(s)/speaker(s) and may not necessarily reflect those of Night Night, Bitch, its host, or its affiliates.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this multi-episode series, we explore the ancient fairy tale "The Handless Maiden," collected by the Brothers Grimm in 1812, through the lens of astrologer and mystic Jessica Davidson's brilliant online essays. The story follows a young woman whose father, in a desperate deal with the devil, sacrifices her hands for wealth and convenience. Her subsequent journey through the forest in search of healing reflects the "dark night of the soul" process—a transformative period where individuals confront their deepest wounds and emerge renewed. Through this series, we'll read each of Jessica Davidson's articles as we uncover the tale's profound themes of betrayal, loss, and redemption, exploring how it serves as an archetypal guide for healing and transformation. By understanding the characters as aspects of our own psyche, we'll see how "The Handless Maiden" offers valuable insights into reclaiming our feeling nature, healing old wounds, and finding wholeness in times of darkness.

Covered in Part 2: In the second episode of our series, we continue where we left off: three years after the devil made his deal. He returns to claim his payment—the maiden. Despite her father's compliance and his attempt to sever her hands, the maiden’s tears become a powerful force of purification and protection, frustrating the devil's plans. Furious, the devil orders the miller to cut off his daughter's hands, but even this gruesome act cannot dim her light. We then explore the symbolism behind "Entering the Forest," as the maiden leaves her parents and embarks on a journey into the underworld. Her wounds bandaged in white, she finds herself guided by an angel to a royal garden filled with pear trees. Despite her dismemberment, the maiden finds solace in nature and is nourished by a single pear offered by the Tree of Life. Join me as we uncover how the severing of her hands symbolizes the betrayal of the feminine and loss of innocence, and how her journey into the forest represents a descent into the underworld, where she reconnects with her instinctual nature and inner wisdom. We'll discuss the deeply rooted archetypal themes of sacrifice, dismemberment, and renewal, setting the stage for the next chapter of her transformative journey through the dark night of the soul.

SELECTED READING: “The Handless Maiden: Healing a Dark Night of the Soul” (online essay series by Jessica Davidson – accessible via https://jessicadavidson.co.uk/.)

CONNECT WITH ME + CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To dive deeper into these themes and explore more of my original work, follow my other podcast, Back From The Borderline, on your favorite podcast player or visit backfromtheborderline.com. You can also connect with me on Instagram @backfromtheborderline, where I share my favorite reads, tools, and all things inner alchemy.

Disclaimer: episodes of Night Night, Bitch are for the purpose of research, study, entertainment, meditation, sleep, and discussion. The views and opinions expressed in each episode belong to the original author(s)/creator(s)/speaker(s) and may not necessarily reflect those of Night Night, Bitch, its host, or its affiliates.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this multi-episode series, we explore the ancient fairy tale "The Handless Maiden," collected by the Brothers Grimm in 1812, through the lens of astrologer and mystic Jessica Davidson's brilliant online essays. The story follows a young woman whose father, in a desperate deal with the devil, sacrifices her hands for wealth and convenience. Her subsequent journey through the forest in search of healing reflects the "dark night of the soul" process—a transformative period where individuals confront their deepest wounds and emerge renewed. Through this series, we'll read each of Jessica Davidson's articles as we uncover the tale's profound themes of betrayal, loss, and redemption, exploring how it serves as an archetypal guide for healing and transformation. By understanding the characters as aspects of our own psyche, we'll see how "The Handless Maiden" offers valuable insights into reclaiming our feeling nature, healing old wounds, and finding wholeness in times of darkness.

Covered in Part 1: In the first episode of our series, we'll explore the symbolism behind "A Deal With the Devil" and the concept of dismemberment. The story begins with a broken miller who unknowingly bargains away his own daughter. As we dissect the first part of the tale, we'll uncover the miller's fractured psyche and examine the naive innocence of the maiden, who becomes the unwitting victim of her father's greed.

We'll delve into how the severing of her hands represents the betrayal of the feminine, disempowering the psyche and symbolizing the loss of control over one's life. Despite her father's submission to the devil's demands, the maiden's tears serve as a powerful force of purification and protection against darkness. This gruesome yet transformative initiation leads her on a path toward healing and reconnecting with her instinctual nature. Join me as I unpack the deeply rooted archetypal themes of innocence, betrayal, and renewal in this ancient myth, setting the stage for a journey of transformation through the dark night of the soul. SELECTED READING: “The Handless Maiden: Healing a Dark Night of the Soul” (online essay series by Jessica Davidson – accessible via https://jessicadavidson.co.uk/.)

CONNECT WITH ME + CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To dive deeper into these themes and explore more of my original work, follow my other podcast, Back From The Borderline, on your favorite podcast player or visit backfromtheborderline.com. You can also connect with me on Instagram @backfromtheborderline, where I share my favorite reads, tools, and all things inner alchemy.

Disclaimer: episodes of Night Night, Bitch are for the purpose of research, study, entertainment, meditation, sleep, and discussion. The views and opinions expressed in each episode belong to the original author(s)/creator(s)/speaker(s) and may not necessarily reflect those of Night Night, Bitch, its host, or its affiliates.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode plunges into the depths of the Rennes-le-Château mystery, where Berenger Saunière, a seemingly modest priest, unearthed secrets that could redefine our understanding of history. His discovery, sparked by renovations in a small French church, led to astonishing theories about hidden treasures, the Ark of the Covenant, and the bloodlines of Jesus and Mary Magdalene. As we peel back layers of history, art, and symbolism, we delve into a lesser-known but provocative element of this mystery—a triptych from the church of Marie Madeleine in Aix-en-Provence. Alleged to contain "Satanic" symbols, this artwork fueled fiery debates among scholars, including M.R. James, over its enigmatic details, which connect to ancient symbols of the Isis and the Triple Goddess. Join me as we explore connections to the Philosopher’s Stone and the profound implications these symbols hold for understanding Gnostic traditions and the sacred feminine. We question the conventional boundaries between the divine and profane, exploring how historical narratives are constructed and how they could be masking profound truths about our spiritual heritage. Prepare to rethink everything you know about history, spirituality, and the art that binds them. This journey through time and thought reveals a narrative where myth, history, and art converge, offering transformative insights into the mysteries of the Rennes-le-Château and beyond.

Article: “Angles of Coincidence: Rennes-le-Château and the Magdalen Mystery” by Ron Weighell [First published in booklet form by the Haunted Library in 1987.]

✧ For a full color reproduction of the Aix Annunciation, click here.

✧ Full color verion of The Annunciation Nicolas Poussin (1594–1665): https://artuk.org/discover/artworks/the-annunciation-115434

✧ Full color version of Et in Arcadia ego - Les Bergers d'Arcadie Nicolas Poussin: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Et_in_Arcadia_ego_(Poussin)

CONNECT WITH ME + CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To dive deeper into these themes and explore more of my original work, follow my other podcast, Back From The Borderline, on your favorite podcast player or visit backfromtheborderline.com. You can also connect with me on Instagram @backfromtheborderline, where I share my favorite reads, tools, and all things inner alchemy.

Disclaimer: episodes of Night Night, Bitch are for the purpose of research, study, entertainment, meditation, sleep, and discussion. The views and opinions expressed in each episode belong to the original author(s)/creator(s)/speaker(s) and may not necessarily reflect those of Night Night, Bitch, its host, or its affiliates.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I invite you on a soothing journey into the essence of your being, where the hidden bindings of self-perception are gently unraveled. As you settle in for this immersive meditative experience, let the calm narration guide you through a reflective exploration of the deep-seated beliefs that often keep us from fully embracing our lives. We'll delve into the concepts of feeling incomplete, the impact of our actions, and our perceptions of difference—all which shape our daily experiences and our interactions with the world. This is transformative experience designed to help you find peace and clarity within yourself. By listening, you'll gain insights into overcoming the invisible barriers that may prevent you from connecting with your true potential and the joy of existence. Embrace this opportunity to relax, let go, and discover a greater sense of wholeness. Remember who you truly are.

SELECTED READING: IGNORANCE AND BONDAGE – SAKTIPATA THE AWAKENING OF DIVINE POWER by Yaari [Feb 15, 2021]

YOUR FAVORITE MYSTICAL BEDTIME STORY PODCAST: Can’t sleep? This adult bedtime story podcast invites you to escape the burdens of sleeplessness and immerse yourself in a mystical world of relaxation and enchantment. Sometimes our weary minds need a break from the endless scrolling that often accompanies insomnia. Each episode allows you to unwind and prepare to embrace deep sleep while awakening to arcane wisdom at the same time. Designed to alleviate nighttime anxiety, each audio journey will offer an oasis of serenity amidst the chaos of the waking world. Choose to embrace restful sleep or enjoy a conscious, meditative state—it's your choice. Prepare to be transported to a realm where dreams and relaxation intertwine. Bid farewell to restless nights and awaken to a newfound sense of peace and rejuvenation.

CONNECT WITH ME + CHECK OUT MORE OF MY WORK: To dive deeper into these themes and explore more of my original work, follow my other podcast, Back From The Borderline, on your favorite podcast player or visit backfromtheborderline.com. You can also connect with me on Instagram @backfromtheborderline, where I share my favorite reads, tools, and all things inner alchemy.

Disclaimer: episodes of Night Night, Bitch are for the purpose of research, study, entertainment, meditation, sleep, and discussion. The views and opinions expressed in each episode belong to the original author(s)/creator(s)/speaker(s) and may not necessarily reflect those of Night Night, Bitch, its host, or its affiliates.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.