The Joyful Shaman

I’m back after a full year away, and I’m not sugarcoating why: I hit a level of burnout that made it impossible to keep showing up like nothing was wrong. I pick up where I left off and tell the story I didn’t finish, starting with the Feather and Flame retreat in Taos, New Mexico. It was beautiful, it was “high-end,” and it also carried the wrong energy because I pushed it forward from pressure instead of alignment. If you’ve ever tried to force a plan to work because the finances felt scary, you’ll recognize the moment your nervous system starts waving red flags. From there, I unpack what it means to lead retreats responsibly, how boundaries can save relationships, and why I chose to stop being a 50-50 partner in retreat planning. I also share the deeper layer behind place and healing, including my take on astrocartography and why some locations can amplify old wounds. Whether you love astrology or not, the point is simple: your body keeps the score, and the environments you choose can either keep you activated or help you finally breathe. Then the real shift happens in Washington State on Bainbridge Island during a quiet three-week catsitting stay. I start out bored, anxious, and unable to be still, and I end up hiking for days in winter woods, breathing cold air, crying, and feeling genuine nervous system regulation return. That’s where a new name drops in: Still Point. I talk through why sound healing, sound therapy, breathwork, and somatic practice are the focus going forward, and how I’m separating identity from persona so I can serve from a cleaner, calmer place. If this hits home, subscribe, share the episode with someone who needs a reset, and leave a review with the part that helped you most.I'd Love To Connect With You..Send Me A Message!To Connect With Me, Visit Me At: www.stillpointsoundhealing.com.comFollow Me On Instagram: @stillpointsoundhealingHave Questions Or Episode Ideas?? Email [email protected] You So Much For Supporting Me & Energetically…The Collective

What if the one practice you’ve been avoiding is the one that finally lets your body exhale? Our conversation with Sonya traces a real, lived shift—from “doing all the right things” to a gentler, deeper healing that starts with breath, boundaries, and honest self-trust. We revisit a Mexico retreat that changed her trajectory, where breathwork cracked old armor and a Temazcal ceremony turned surrender into something you can feel in your bones. That turning point didn’t hand out instant fixes; it gave her a reliable path back to herself—and a morning ritual that finally stuck.We unpack why meditation clicks when you stop forcing a single method. Guided audio, movement, humming, cards, coloring—each practice counts when it interrupts the mental loop and teaches your nervous system safety. Sonya shares how speaking truth and setting clear boundaries reshaped her relationships and work, and why letting go of outcomes is less about passivity and more about trust. We challenge the comparison trap that drains creative healers, explore a seasonal “harvest” lens for mid-year course corrections, and name what so many feel but rarely say: healers need safe places to be human, too.We also tackle the difference between supportive routines and root-cause healing. Supplements, diet, massage, yoga—they help. But without addressing emotional trauma, the body can stay locked in a low-grade alarm, right down to cellular energy and the cell danger response. By pairing breathwork and ritual with grounded frameworks, Sonya found a way to reprogram safety, not just stack habits. Along the way, we break the myth that healing must be in-person; with clear intention and ethics, online sessions can be profoundly effective and globally accessible.If this speaks to you, subscribe, share with a friend who’s ready to go deeper, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway. When you’re ready for guided support, explore online sessions at joyfulshaman.com and take your next kind step toward yourself.I'd Love To Connect With You..Send Me A Message!To Connect With Me, Visit Me At: www.stillpointsoundhealing.com.comFollow Me On Instagram: @stillpointsoundhealingHave Questions Or Episode Ideas?? Email [email protected] You So Much For Supporting Me & Energetically…The Collective

What happens when a spiritual journey becomes a physical and emotional crucible? My recent pilgrimage to England's sacred sites opened me in ways I never anticipated, stripping away pretense and bringing me face-to-face with unprocessed emotions.The magic began in Glastonbury—the heart chakra of the world—where powerful ley lines associated with Archangel Michael and Mary Magdalene converge. At the Heart Gathering Festival, I found kindred spirits whose authentic connections reminded me why I'd been drawn to this mystical landscape. Our sacred sites tour with an extraordinary guide named John challenged me beyond measure. The climb to Glastonbury Tor became a metaphor for my spiritual journey: each painful step up 300+ stairs with an injured knee brought tears and prayers. "I am trying my best," I sobbed to Michael as rain poured down and wind whipped around me. This wasn't the romanticized spiritual experience I'd imagined—it was raw, difficult transformation.Divine Light Tours: https://www.divinelighttours.com/ Avebury's stone circle emanated gentle healing frequencies while Stonehenge delivered an unexpected otherworldly encounter. Standing before one particular stone, I felt my body pulled by what seemed like a gravitational force. My third eye activated intensely while visions of ancient practices flashed behind closed eyelids. Even now, remembering that moment brings back the sensation of connecting with something beyond ordinary reality. Was it alien? A portal to another time? The mystery continues to unfold.The healing waters of Bath provided perfect balance to these intense experiences, while navigating challenging relationship dynamics throughout the journey revealed important life lessons. This pilgrimage taught me that sometimes our greatest breakthroughs come disguised as breakdowns. I returned home committed to embodying my medicine, confronting my inner critic, and walking my path with greater authenticity.Have you experienced transformation through travel? I'd love to hear your story. And if you're seeking your own healing journey, connect with me through joyfulshaman.com for personalized guidance and support.I'd Love To Connect With You..Send Me A Message!To Connect With Me, Visit Me At: www.stillpointsoundhealing.com.comFollow Me On Instagram: @stillpointsoundhealingHave Questions Or Episode Ideas?? Email [email protected] You So Much For Supporting Me & Energetically…The Collective

Have you ever struggled to receive care when you're always the one giving? That uncomfortable feeling when someone showers you with kindness and you don't know how to accept it? My recent journey to San Diego cracked me wide open in unexpected ways, forcing me to confront my relationship with receiving.When my retreat attendee-turned-friend Betsy invited me to her beachfront Del Mar home, I had no idea the profound lessons awaiting me. As she lavished me with extraordinary hospitality—trips to the San Diego Zoo, boating excursions, the aquarium, and introduced me to countless friends—I felt almost overwhelmed by her generosity. When I confessed this discomfort, her response hit me squarely in the heart: "You deserve it, and you deserve to be taken care of." Those simple words illuminated my lifelong struggle with receiving care as freely as I give it.This revelation sparked a cascade of boundary realizations. During a transcendent sound bath experience with a vibrational therapist's extraordinary instruments—seven-foot gongs, crystal bowls, and Vogel crystals programmed to balance energy—I entered a state of profound relaxation that opened me to crucial insights. I recognized I needed to stop co-hosting retreats with people not matching my energy and commitment. I'd been overgiving—handling logistics, marketing, technology—compensating for what others weren't providing. Right there, I decided to establish clear facilitator rates and honor my energetic limitations.Perhaps most challenging was confronting my 24/7 accessibility to clients. By giving out my personal phone number, I'd created unhealthy patterns where the mere sound of a text message triggered anxiety. This constant energetic drain was affecting my wellbeing, and I recognized I'd enabled dependent behavior in some clients. The journey of unwinding these patterns has just begun, alongside exploring potential relocations to Santa Fe or Bend, Oregon—places calling to my spirit.What boundaries do you need to establish in your own life? How might valuing your energy transform your capacity to serve others authentically? I'd love to hear your thoughts—drop me a message or share your own boundary journey with our community.I'd Love To Connect With You..Send Me A Message!To Connect With Me, Visit Me At: www.stillpointsoundhealing.com.comFollow Me On Instagram: @stillpointsoundhealingHave Questions Or Episode Ideas?? Email [email protected] You So Much For Supporting Me & Energetically…The Collective

A thunderstorm rolls across Mount Shasta as twelve women gather in a meadow, feet dipped in cool spring water. The drumming begins, my voice channeling ancient songs, and suddenly we're all swept up in a wave of energy so powerful it takes our breath away. This is Mount Shasta—where the veil between dimensions thins and transformation becomes inevitable.My journey to lead a spiritual retreat on this sacred mountain tested every ounce of my commitment to surrender. Mercury retrograde announced itself immediately: flight delays, a last-minute guide change after witnessing concerning behavior, accommodations that didn't match descriptions, and even getting lost in the desert while scouting locations. Each challenge whispered the same message: let go of how you think things should be.The culmination came during our portal meditation on Ascension Rock. As we connected with the legendary city of Telos, four tall hooded figures appeared in my vision, placing their hands upon me. My body began shaking uncontrollably—not from fear but from what felt like complete DNA recalibration. When I opened my eyes, everything had changed. Colors intensified, I could see auric fields around trees and people, and even tiny gnats sounded like bat wings flapping near my ears. Something profound had awakened.This activation continued for days afterward—sustained energy, minimal need for sleep, heightened perception. An intuitive healer later confirmed what I suspected: ancient codes within me had been unlocked, accelerating my spiritual evolution. The contrast between Mount Shasta's high vibration and Florida's dense energy made my next steps crystal clear—I finally know where I'm meant to move next year.Ready to experience your own spiritual breakthrough? Whether you're seeking clarity, healing, or profound transformation, the right environment can catalyze changes you never thought possible. What mountain is calling your name?I'd Love To Connect With You..Send Me A Message!To Connect With Me, Visit Me At: www.stillpointsoundhealing.com.comFollow Me On Instagram: @stillpointsoundhealingHave Questions Or Episode Ideas?? Email [email protected] You So Much For Supporting Me & Energetically…The Collective

What if your anger isn't something to be suppressed, but a powerful messenger trying to protect what's sacred in your life? In this raw, unfiltered episode, Naomi opens up about a recent boundary violation at her healing practice that triggered a necessary wave of protective anger. She challenges the spiritual community's tendency to bypass anger in favor of "love and light," revealing how this disconnection can lead to depression, anxiety, and even physical illness when we refuse to honor our body's warning system."Being angry is not bad," Naomi explains. "What's destructive is when you allow that anger to fester like a sore, get infected within you, and then create stories that aren't true." Her vulnerable account of confronting someone who threatened the safety of her practice illustrates how setting firm boundaries isn't unspiritual—it's essential for protecting our energy and those we serve.The conversation shifts to Naomi's current journey through Cancer season, where she's embracing a fasting practice that's helping her shed not just physical weight but old stories, identities, and fears of not being accepted. "I'm tired of overworking, of trying too hard, of this hustle mentality that is so fucking toxic," she shares. "I just want to lead with my heart."For anyone feeling triggered lately or questioning their emotional responses, this episode offers permission to honor all aspects of your emotional landscape. Remember: your anger might be the very thing guiding you toward deeper authenticity and freedom. Join Naomi in this intimate exploration of emotional intelligence, boundary-setting, and the journey back to trusting ourselves.I'd Love To Connect With You..Send Me A Message!To Connect With Me, Visit Me At: www.stillpointsoundhealing.com.comFollow Me On Instagram: @stillpointsoundhealingHave Questions Or Episode Ideas?? Email [email protected] You So Much For Supporting Me & Energetically…The Collective

Recommended Astrologers:Sarah Ashley Murray: https://www.saraashleyastrology.com/?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwLHJI9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp2lVg4JisLAvcjzvAMlESv_0vefuTr4kXB0SdYtW4EPo6wl9NBCoX2uURpF4_aem_rkkymWlxAl_-J0u2wDPnXgJesse Eccles: https://linktr.ee/thatssoulastro?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=86b7bdd8-0108-4f7f-8bc7-d5becd58cbf1Tiffany George: https://linktr.ee/tiffanymegeorge?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=63a4a6b2-7b90-4afe-998a-469d0e52592bYungblud: https://www.yungbludofficial.com/The cosmic dance of planets and stars has more impact on our daily lives than most of us realize. In this revealing episode, I share how astrology has evolved from something I viewed with skepticism to a powerful tool that guides my spiritual practice and helps me navigate both personal challenges and world events.When America bombed a nuclear site in Iran, I saw firsthand how planetary transits create the energetic conditions for such momentous events. This "energetic weather" doesn't determine our actions, but it sets the stage for certain possibilities to unfold. I've watched predictions materialize before my eyes, reinforcing my conviction that astrology provides legitimate insights into cosmic timing.I introduce three exceptional astrologers who have transformed my understanding of self: Sarah Ashley with her soul astrology approach, Jessie Eccles who blends human design with astrological wisdom, and Tiffany George who weaves astrology into life coaching. Through their guidance, I've discovered the critical difference between natal birth charts (your soul's blueprint) and solar return charts (your yearly forecast).My own solar return reading revealed 2025 as a deeply Venusian ninth house year focused on self-love, spiritual teaching, and extensive travel. Remarkably, retreats I had planned months ago align perfectly with powerful astrological events—my Mount Shasta retreat coincides with the full moon in Aquarius, while my Glastonbury journey places me at Stonehenge during a partial lunar eclipse. These synchronicities aren't coincidental; they're cosmic confirmations.From Saturn returns that initiate us into spiritual adulthood around age 28 to the profound awakenings that often occur between 35-42, astrology offers a framework for understanding life's transitions. Across indigenous cultures—Mayan, Egyptian, Vedic, and Chinese—similar astrological systems developed independently, suggesting a universal truth about our connection to celestial cycles.For those questioning their purpose or feeling stuck, your cosmic blueprint awaits discovery. Your unique gifts, challenges, and optimal timing for major life decisions are all written in the stars—you just need to learn how to read the map.I'd Love To Connect With You..Send Me A Message!To Connect With Me, Visit Me At: www.stillpointsoundhealing.com.comFollow Me On Instagram: @stillpointsoundhealingHave Questions Or Episode Ideas?? Email [email protected] You So Much For Supporting Me & Energetically…The Collective

Birthday reflections merge with spiritual revelations as the Joyful Shaman marks her 38th year – a master number of 11 (3+8) cycle symbolizing sacred collaborations with spirit, earth, and humanity. This milestone brings gratitude for how far she's traveled on her healing journey, both professionally and personally, finally feeling that state of flow with spirit that manifests as deep inner peace.Life has flung open doors of abundance with spiritual retreats blossoming worldwide. The Mount Shasta journey has sold out completely, leading to an exciting series of sacred adventures: Glastonbury and Bath in September (her first journey across the pond), Taos in October for horseback riding and ceremonies with Pueblo people, and Isla Mujeres in November to connect with the energy of Mayan goddess Ixchel. This flow of opportunities reflects years of inner work and alignment with divine timing.Amidst these celebrations comes a profound personal revelation – after nearly twenty years serving others, it's time to answer a different call. Summer 2026 will bring relocation to the American West, with Bend, Oregon emerging as the frontrunner. The desire for four seasons, mountain energy, and a different pace of life feels like the next evolution of her soul journey. "I've manifested everything I wanted in my career. Now I'm ready for new adventures, including  finding sacred partnership," she shares, emphasizing that remaining open to spirit's guidance has transformed dreams into reality. For listeners feeling that same internal nudge toward change, her message rings clear: "This is the ultimate green flag for taking aligned action. Spirit has got you, my friend."I'd Love To Connect With You..Send Me A Message!To Connect With Me, Visit Me At: www.stillpointsoundhealing.com.comFollow Me On Instagram: @stillpointsoundhealingHave Questions Or Episode Ideas?? Email [email protected] You So Much For Supporting Me & Energetically…The Collective

Recorded Interview with Podcast Host Alicia Meeks of The Wild Spirit with Alicia. She is based out of Vancouver Island, Canada and is a Spiritual Guide, Teacher & Facilitator as well. www.aliciameek.comHave you ever wondered what happens when everything you've built crumbles away? For Naomi, founder of A Joyful Shaman, this devastating experience became the doorway to her authentic calling as a vibrational therapist and modern shamanic healer.In this transformative conversation, Naomi shares her remarkable journey from suppressing her intuitive gifts while growing up in an evangelical Christian household to embracing her Mayan indigenous heritage of herbal medicine women. The turning point? A complete loss of her first business that led to bankruptcy, depression, and ultimately—a spiritual awakening through a visitation from her grandmother's spirit."You're a healer," her grandmother told her during this profound experience. "You come from a long line of powerful women that have special gifts." This reconnection to her ancestral wisdom set Naomi on a path of deep healing work combining breath, sound, and spirit to help others return to wholeness.The highlight of this episode is a guided breath and sound journey that gives you a taste of shamanic breathwork—a powerful technique that Naomi describes as similar to "a mild ayahuasca journey but with greater control." Through rhythmic breathing, drumming, and visualization, this mini-ceremony helps release what no longer serves you while awakening your connection to your true self.Whether you're curious about indigenous healing practices, seeking to reconnect with your own ancestral wisdom, or simply looking for powerful tools to regulate your nervous system and release trauma, this episode offers a gentle introduction to the transformative power of shamanic practices adapted for modern times.Ready to remember your power, your joy, your wholeness? Listen now and experience a taste of coming home to yourself through the ancient wisdom of breath and sound.I'd Love To Connect With You..Send Me A Message!To Connect With Me, Visit Me At: www.stillpointsoundhealing.com.comFollow Me On Instagram: @stillpointsoundhealingHave Questions Or Episode Ideas?? Email [email protected] You So Much For Supporting Me & Energetically…The Collective

From the heart of an indigenous Mexican village accessible only by boat, I'm sharing my raw, unfiltered experience facilitating shamanic healing ceremonies at the Journey Back to You retreat in Yelapa. What began as an exciting opportunity quickly became a profound test of my own medicine when I found myself facing unexpected physical limitations—130 uneven stone steps that my damaged knee protested with each climb—and primal fears in my open-air jungle room where spiders, geckos, and the unknown lurked beyond my mosquito netting.Throughout the week, I guided participants through chakra healing, shamanic breathwork, and ocean cord-cutting ceremonies while simultaneously navigating my own journey of surrender. The universe delivered humbling lessons when I fell into the Pacific Ocean—twice!—during boat transfers, reminding me that sometimes laughter is the best medicine when ego takes a hit. The most profound healing came unexpectedly through a gifted Watsu water massage, where a local healer intuitively connected my knee pain to unresolved forgiveness issues with my grandmother and maternal lineage, triggering deep emotional release.Participating in the Temazcal (Toltec sweat lodge) as a medicine woman in the inner circle reinforced what I've always known about healing—it happens at the edge of comfort, where surrender becomes necessary. As I prepare to lead final ceremonies focusing on throat and third-eye chakras, I'm filled with gratitude for this sacred space where women from different backgrounds came together to do the difficult, beautiful work of spiritual growth and self-discovery.The medicine has been everywhere—in the challenging terrain, the beautiful connections formed, and the moments of vulnerability that reminded me that even shamans need healing. If you're feeling called to step into your own transformative journey but fear what might be revealed, remember that wholeness often begins where comfort ends. The path to our most authentic selves rarely follows even steps, but the view from each new elevation makes every difficult climb worthwhile.I'd Love To Connect With You..Send Me A Message!To Connect With Me, Visit Me At: www.stillpointsoundhealing.com.comFollow Me On Instagram: @stillpointsoundhealingHave Questions Or Episode Ideas?? Email [email protected] You So Much For Supporting Me & Energetically…The Collective