What it's All About:
In this episode, I will talk about the deep link between trauma and Paganism and how spiritual practices can work towards healing and resilience. Trauma can impact self-perception and even interpersonal relationships, therefore, resulting in social withdrawal and loneliness. It is common to search for meaning in the Pagan traditions suffering that the pain builds misconceptions of reality because of their core practices and communities. I will focus on the ways how different Pagan rituals can help trauma survivors to step into a process of passing through distress, restore a sense of self and feel whole again within a community context.
Furthermore, I will highlight some different techniques under Paganism that can be helpful in addressing trauma. The combination of these elements may include the importance of entwined ritual, meditation, nature, and community as conduits of hope and strength. It’s been a pleasure speaking about these topics in the podcast, feel free to share it with people whom you feel will gain from it and shouldn’t in any way hesitate subscribing to the podcast. Continue the discussion with us on social media about the topics or suggest any of your own for me to consider in the future.
Songs Featured:
Pagan by Moon and the Nightspirit
Spirit Guide Background Music by Toby Smith from Pixabay
Dream Symbol Background Music by Vincent from Pixabay
Links Mentioned:
Get in Touch Through Social Media:
Spirit Guide of the Week:
Psyche
Dream Symbol:
Telephone
Transcript:
(03:24)
Welcome to another episode of the Music from the Goddess’ Vault Podcast. I am your host Midnight Starr. You just heard Spiral Rhythm with I am Pagan.
The topic of today’s show is all about Trauma and Paganism.
Before we jump back in, I’d really like to know which classic Yule episode you want me to revisit this December. You can easily cast your vote in the Choose an Old Yule Episode poll linked in the show notes. I can’t wait to see what you all choose!
Next, I would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to complete two brief questionnaires. The first one focuses on the exciting perks available for my Patreon supporters, and I would love to hear your thoughts on possible rewards. Just click the Patreon Perks link in the show notes to participate. Your feedback is incredibly valuable and plays a crucial role in shaping the future of this podcast!
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Now for the topic: Trauma and Paganism. This is a vast and heavy subject, and I’ll do my best to approach it in a positive light. Many of us carry trauma in different forms, and we often turn to this path seeking healing for those wounds. I’ll discuss how we can work through these experiences and explore some ways to heal our own traumatic wounds.
Now, let’s take a moment to enjoy some music. Here’s Opening of the Wound by Arcana.
(08:42)
To begin, let's define trauma. It can take on various forms, including emotional, psychological, and spiritual. Often, it leaves people feeling fragmented, disconnected, or even violated. The effects of trauma can be deep and far-reaching, influencing a person's sense of self, their relationships, and how they view the world.
For individuals who have faced trauma, exploring a spiritual path can play a crucial role in their healing journey. Some find comfort, empowerment, and a greater sense of self through Paganism.
Paganism provides a distinctive approach for people to navigate their trauma. Many discover that participating in spiritual practices helps them regain their identity after experiencing feelings of being broken or adrift. The tales within Pagan traditions—narratives of loss, rebirth, and transformation—deeply connect with those who have encountered major obstacles. These myths can mirror our own difficulties, offering both hope and a way to move ahead.
Nature plays an essential part in this healing journey. Many Pagans draw comfort and strength from the natural world, seeing it as a wellspring of renewal and solace. The cycles of nature often reflect our personal experiences of growth and healing, serving as a reminder that transformation is always within reach.
Community plays a crucial role as well. Pagan groups frequently establish supportive spaces where individuals can share their experiences and feel less alone in their challenges. These connections can promote collective healing, enabling people to unite in shared rituals and experiences.
As we contemplate these themes, we must acknowledge the profound impact music has on our healing journeys. It has the ability to stir emotions, forge connections, and offer comfort.
Let’s take a moment to enjoy a song that truly captures the essence of this topic. Here’s Circle of Healing by Crow Women.
(15:26)
Time for another Spirit Guide of the Week.
This week's spirit guide is Psyche, the goddess of the soul and compassionate love. Her name translates to "soul" in Greek, and she was a mortal princess whose beauty was said to rival that of Aphrodite.
Psyche's beauty captivated many, diverting worship from Aphrodite. In response, Aphrodite sent Cupid to make Psyche fall for someone undeserving. However, Cupid ended up falling in love with her instead. They enjoyed a life of luxury together, but Psyche never got to see his face.
When she requested to see her family, Cupid cautioned her about the potential repercussions. Her envious sisters persuaded her that he could be a monster, prompting her to light a candle and stare at him while he slept. The wax dripped down, waking Cupid, who abandoned her due to her lack of trust, sending Psyche on a journey to win him back.
There's more to this myth, but I can't explore it further today. To pay tribute to Psyche at your altar, think about offering tasty food and drink, along with hearts and butterflies.
That is it for now. Stay tuned for another spirit guide of the week.
(19:52)
That was Willow Wynd with My Heart Remembers.
Trauma can have a profound impact on our lives, and although there isn't a quick fix, paganism offers various paths to start the healing process. Let's delve into some of these approaches together.
First up, let’s discuss the healing power of nature. As many of you know, paganism is essentially an earth-centered spirituality. Spending time outdoors can be profoundly grounding. Whether it’s enjoying a mindful walk, sitting by a stream, or just inhaling fresh air, connecting with the earth allows us to reconnect with ourselves.
Meditation offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature. Picture yourself sitting on the grass, feeling the earth beneath you, and releasing your worries, even if just for a brief moment.
Next, we have the tradition of ritual baths. This practice goes beyond mere cleanliness; it serves as a sacred form of self-care. By filling your tub with warm water, adding herbs or essential oils, and taking the time to unwind, you can create a powerful experience that cleanses both your body and your spirit.
Consider it a way to lighten the burden of your trauma, even if just temporarily. Keep in mind, you have every right to focus on your well-being!
Now, let’s explore shadow work. This practice requires us to face the aspects of ourselves that we typically keep hidden—our fears, our pain, and our unresolved issues. It’s a challenging process that can resurface painful memories, but accepting your shadow self is crucial for healing.
By recognizing these more challenging aspects, you can start to comprehend and incorporate them, paving the way for significant transformation and personal growth.
One impactful technique is the symbolic act of burning. This involves writing down your trauma, fears, or anything that burdens you on paper and then safely setting it ablaze. Fire serves as a powerful element for cleansing and transformation.
As you observe the flames devouring your words, imagine your trauma being set free and transformed, creating room for healing and renewal.
Finally, we can't underestimate the power of visualization. This practice enables us to create safe spaces in our minds where we can face and heal from our trauma.
Whether you picture a warm, protective light enveloping you or see yourself in a calm, peaceful landscape, this technique can promote feelings of tranquility and security.
So, there you have it—five pagan practices that can help in healing trauma. Keep in mind that healing is a lifelong journey, and it's perfectly fine to take your time. Approach these practices at your own pace, and be kind to yourself throughout the process.
Time to shift gears and let the music take over. Enjoy Shadow Puppets by Ginger Doss.
(27:30)
Here's another dream symbol to interpret.
There is just one today and that is the telephone.
In dreams, telephones frequently represent a message from your inner self or a form of telepathic communication.
Dreaming of a telephone ringing repeatedly indicates that a message is not being communicated clearly.
Dreaming about avoiding a call or not answering a ringing phone suggests there may be issues with communication.
If the phone has no dial tone or is left off the hook, this dream suggests that you may be isolating yourself.
However, hearing a dial tone in your dream indicates that you are open to new ideas and willing to consider the viewpoints of others.
Dreaming about having a phone conversation with someone you know suggests that there’s an issue you need to discuss with that person.
Being placed on hold in a dream represents feelings of being undervalued or having difficulty expressing yourself freely.
Dreaming of dialing the wrong number indicates that you may be experiencing difficulties in connecting with others.
And dreaming that your phone is tapped suggests that there are aspects of your subconscious that you need to confront.
If you want a dream symbol to interpret and maybe have a dream symbol featured, I will mention the contact information at the end of this show. So keep dreaming.
(00:00)
Before we begin, a quick reminder: if you're listening to this podcast while driving or in a moving vehicle, please skip ahead for your safety.
Now, I’m going to play a meditation from the album Advanced Deep Relaxation and Guided Rain Forest Meditation by J.D. Emmanuel. This track is titled Guided Deep Relaxation.
(00:00)
Before the meditation you heard Goddess Calling by Meren King.
That brings us to the end of today’s show! I’m your host, Midnight Starr, and I have some exciting news to share with everyone!
I'm looking for your input on which classic episode should make a comeback in November! Join my 'Choose an Old Yule Episode for December Poll'! You can easily find it in the show notes, on my blog, or on my Substack page.
I have two short questionnaires for you as well.
I'm working on some exciting rewards for my Patreon supporters, and I would really appreciate your feedback! Just click the 'Perks for the Show' link in the show notes to let me know what you think.
I'm eager to hear what topics you're interested in for me to talk about on Music from the Goddess Vault! Whether it's Spirit Guides, dream symbols, or any other ideas, I welcome your suggestions. Don't hesitate to reach out to me on social media (Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Blue Sky, Mastodon) or check out my blog at goddessvault1.wixsite.com/home.
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As I bring this episode to an end, let’s enjoy Pagan by Moon and the Nightspirit.
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