Step into the supernatural world of Occoquan, Virginia with Rachael Bright. By day, she's the owner of Local Colour, a vibrant gallery featuring local artists. By night, she transforms into the self-proclaimed "crazy ghost lady of Occoquan," leading haunted tours and communicating directly with the town's supernatural residents.

Rachael's journey into spirit communication began in childhood when she first saw her mother's deceased first husband on the stairs—a man she would later identify from old wedding photos. Throughout her life, spirits have sought her out, recognizing an ability she didn't initially understand. Now, using copper dowsing rods that act like rabbit ears on an old black and white TV, she facilitates conversations between the living and the dead.

The spiritual landscape of Occoquan isn't just about random hauntings. Occoquan is a complex, interconnected community. From Tad, the seven-year-old Dutch boy who haunts Rachael's gallery, to Harry, an indigenous American from 1832 who lives in a local restaurant and is fascinated by modern technology, these spirits maintain relationships, learn new things, and possess unique talents. Some excel at moving objects, others at manipulating light, while some appear in reflective surfaces.

What makes this small Virginia town such a paranormal hotspot? Rachel describes Occoquan as a spiritual vortex centered around a conscious entity known as Oweya—a "genius loci" or local deity formed through thousands of years of indigenous spiritual practices. This presence influences both the living and the dead, drawing spiritually attuned people to the town and supporting a thriving metaphysical community.

Whether you're a skeptic or believer, Rachael's experiences challenge conventional understanding of the afterlife and suggest that the barrier between worlds is thinner than we might think. The most compelling moments come when spirits provide information that later proves accurate—like when a murdered great-grandfather named Sam warned his descendant about workplace danger through a reading.

If you are ready to experience Occoquan's supernatural side for yourself, visit OccoquanSpirits.com to book a ghost tour, or stop by Local Colour at 408 Mill Street where art, history, and the spiritual world converge in unexpected ways. You can also find Rachael on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/localcolouroldtown/

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You can find Kristine Erickson on Instagram at outrageous_wellness
Stay tuned for information on Sherry White as she rebrands!

Darkness retreats represent one of humanity's oldest spiritual traditions, practiced across cultures from South America to the Middle East, from indigenous traditions to monastic practices. Today, these powerful practices are experiencing a resurgence.

In this fascinating conversation with Keen of Dark Havens Darkness Retreats, we explore the transformative power of darkness as a catalyst for self-discovery. Keen shares his personal journey, which began with his excommunication from his fundamental Christian denomination, then through various spiritual modalities, before discovering darkness retreats as his path. His profound first experience on day five of a seven-day retreat became the turning point that ultimately led to his calling as a facilitator.

Unlike our typical approach to self-development where doing more is valued, darkness retreats invite us into the radical simplicity of being. Without visual stimulation, participants often access deeper layers of consciousness, forgotten memories, and profound insights about themselves and their purpose. The darkness functions as a perfect mirror, returning our projections back to us and creating opportunities for shadow integration that Carl Jung would surely appreciate.

The results can be life-changing. "People divide their lives into 'before darkness' and 'after darkness,'" Keen explains, sharing stories of transformed relationships, career shifts, and newfound clarity. Scientific research is now beginning to examine the neurogenesis and neuroplasticity that may underlie these profound changes.

Whether you're curious about consciousness exploration but hesitant about plant medicines, seeking greater clarity of purpose, or simply longing for the peace that comes from slowing down for a period of time, darkness retreats offer a powerful container for transformation. Listen now to discover how ancient wisdom might help us navigate our modern metacrisis.

Visit darkhavens.org to learn more about darkness retreats or find Keen's book "Darkness Speaks: An Invitation to Abyss" on Amazon.

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You can find Kristine Erickson on Instagram at outrageous_wellness
Stay tuned for information on Sherry White as she rebrands!

Kristine Erickson and Sherry White uncover the fascinating relationship between fear and spirituality, exploring how deeply rooted biological processes shape our spiritual and psychological experiences. Imagine a world where fear isn’t just a mental hurdle but a doorway to profound spiritual insight. Recent research highlights the periaqueductal gray, a brainstem nucleus, as pivotal in both fear conditioning and spiritual experiences, suggesting that spirituality is more instinctive than previously thought. Join us as we navigate the complex interplay between fear, anxiety, and spiritual growth, and reconsider how different fears, like those of death or the unknown, shape our life's journey.

Our discussions take a personal turn as we reflect on how belief systems, shaped by grief and ancestral trauma, influence our understanding of safety and security. Childhood and even in-utero experiences leave deep imprints on our mental health, with scientific evidence pointing to the inheritance of trauma across generations. In sharing personal stories of loss, we shed light on the universal challenge of managing fear while striving for balance and mental well-being. Acknowledging fear as an unavoidable reality, we explore how self-awareness and healing practices can transform it into a source of strength and growth.

Drawing inspiration from Richard Rudd's Gene Keys, Kristine and Sherry highlight the transformative power of addressing fear with love and acceptance. Recognizing fear's physical manifestations, particularly in the psoas muscle, and maintaining gut health can be pivotal in managing its impact. Our society often neglects fear, yet spirituality offers a path to confront and transform it. Navigate life's difficulties with compassion, and understand the importance of maintaining a higher consciousness in the face of collective fear. Through empathy and open-mindedness, we can work towards the greater good, listening and learning from diverse perspectives to uplift humanity together.

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You can find Kristine Erickson on Instagram at outrageous_wellness
Stay tuned for information on Sherry White as she rebrands!

Experience a transformative journey with Ofosu Jones-Quartey, also known as Born I, as he bridges the worlds of hip-hop and spirituality. His roots as a child of Ghanaian immigrants in Washington DC and introduction to Buddhism by his mother paved the way for a unique career as a meditation teacher and author. Our conversation unpacks the essence of integrating creative expression with spiritual growth, particularly through sound baths at the Eaton Hotel, where Ofosu blends music and meditation into an inspiring harmony.

Discover the liberating power of the mantra "You Are Enough" as we explore the universality of self-acceptance struggles. Our dialogue delves into overcoming shame and inadequacy through art, music, and meditation as therapeutic outlets. By embracing self-compassion, we emphasize the enduring truth that our intrinsic worth remains untouched by past traumas. This discussion offers a gentle reminder of the importance of self-love and the transformative potential of recognizing our inherent value.

In an exploration of spirituality's role in personal development, we touch on interdimensional beings within Buddhism and their representation of our highest selves. Ofosu shares his personal challenges with meditation, and the journey from suffering to self-love. The conversation highlights the essential role of community support and introspection in navigating spiritual and mental health challenges. 

We invite you to pre-order his book Lyrical Dharma which is coming out in July of 2025, and keep an ear open for his upcoming 2025 album.

You can find Born I / Ofosu on Instagram at bornimusic, at his website bornimusic.com, and on Spotify as Born I

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You can find Kristine Erickson on Instagram at outrageous_wellness
Stay tuned for information on Sherry White as she rebrands!

What if you could harness the wisdom and transformative traits of the Year of the Snake to fuel your entrepreneurial journey? Join us as we celebrate the cultural richness of the Chinese New Year with Bo Peng, the visionary founder and president of the Asian American Women Entrepreneurs Association. Bo's incredible story of moving to the U.S. in 2012, overcoming language barriers, and discovering her strengths in bilingual communication sets the stage for her dedication to empowering Asian American women to achieve their dreams.

We explore the vibrant traditions that mark the Chinese New Year, from the iconic dragon dance to the time-honored practice of giving red envelopes. These rituals are more than just celebrations; they are a reflection of a community's resilience and hope for prosperity. As we prepare for the Year of the Snake, we connect these traditions to Western New Year's resolutions, highlighting how cultural practices can inspire personal and entrepreneurial growth. Bo shares her experiences organizing community events like Spring Festival galas, which foster diverse collaborations and celebrate entrepreneurial spirit.

Discover how Bo's organization is expanding with new chapters in North Carolina and New Jersey, offering resources and mentorship to Asian American women. Together, we discuss the importance of culturally-focused support systems and the role of coaching in navigating societal challenges. Bo's insights into the power of community and tradition reveal a path toward success grounded in understanding and embracing cultural nuances. Whether you're celebrating the New Year or seeking inspiration for your own journey, this episode offers a blend of wisdom and celebration that'll resonate with anyone appreciating the richness of cultural heritage.

The Asian American Women Entrepreneurs Association can be found at https://www.aawea.org/

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You can find Kristine Erickson on Instagram at outrageous_wellness
Stay tuned for information on Sherry White as she rebrands!

Reflecting on the past can lead to more impactful New Year resolutions. In this episode, we dissect common goals, emphasize the need for self-care, and explore how flexible, SMART goals can enhance personal development. 

Ready to redefine your approach to New Year's resolutions? Discover how aligning your goals with the natural rhythms of winter can bring you closer to lasting fulfillment. Kristine and Sherry offer a fresh perspective on traditional goal-setting, urging you to let go of what no longer serves you. Imagine using the New Year's reflective energy not just to set financial or fitness goals, but to nurture your relationships and embrace self-care. As we explore the profound impact of seasonal changes and the role of feel-good hormones, you'll learn how environmental factors like sunlight might influence your well-being more than you thought.

This episode shines a light on the often-overlooked connection between personality types and lifestyle choices. How could understanding your Enneagram or Human Design type transform your approach to fitness and goal-setting? We discuss the importance of recognizing one's unique energy patterns to tailor more effective and enjoyable routines. It’s time to redefine what success looks like for you, whether it involves crafting SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-based) goals or venturing into the depths of spiritual growth. Join us as we share personal anecdotes and practical advice on finding joy in movement, making the journey towards your goals both invigorating and sustainable.

Embarking on a path of spiritual self-discovery? With a touch of humor and sincerity, we explore how integrating ancestral religion, astrology, and core beliefs can enrich your personal development. Our conversation aims to inspire not just ambition but a deeper sense of joy and balance between the physical and spiritual. As always, we encourage you to share your journey with us, sparking a community of growth and transformation.

Kristine Erickson can be reached on IG at outrageous_wellness
Stay tuned for more contact information

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You can find Kristine Erickson on Instagram at outrageous_wellness
Stay tuned for information on Sherry White as she rebrands!

We are back after a 2 year hiatus, and are so excited to be podcasting with you again! We are Kristine Erickson, signing on from Alexandria, Virginia, and our new co-host Sherry White joining us from Nashville, Tennessee. 

In this episode, we introduce ourselves and discuss why we are revisiting this podcast. Please join us as we discuss this upcoming season, the holidays, and a little bit about why we're here. Wellness and spirituality are our primary focus.

You can find Kristine on IG at outrageous_wellness
Sherry is rebranding, so stay tuned for more information

Tell us how we're doing

You can find Kristine Erickson on Instagram at outrageous_wellness
Stay tuned for information on Sherry White as she rebrands!

The holidays are here, and it is important to be aware of the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual boundaries that will keep us in a good healthy and place of well being during this often stressful time of year.

Find us on YouTube!
Outrageous Wellness - YouTube

We are Kristine Erickson, PhD, Charlotte Safos, and Kelsey Taylor Williams

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You can find Kristine Erickson on Instagram at outrageous_wellness
Stay tuned for information on Sherry White as she rebrands!

Boundaries are important for maintaining healthy relationships, and for self care. Setting boundaries is just as important as respecting or recognizing other people's boundaries, so use your energetic intuition to navigate the complexities of your relationships with others. Next podcast we will explore this topic further.

Find Outrageous Wellness on YouTube!

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You can find Kristine Erickson on Instagram at outrageous_wellness
Stay tuned for information on Sherry White as she rebrands!

Kelsey is visiting Salem for Halloween/Samhain, so on this podcast we discuss the witch trials of 1692, and their connection to power structures.  But we also have some fun, as always! 

Thank you for joining us! The podcast is also on YouTube now at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUKb7SegHffQG0KLxVgeHzw

On IG: outrageous_wellness

Tell us how we're doing

You can find Kristine Erickson on Instagram at outrageous_wellness
Stay tuned for information on Sherry White as she rebrands!