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

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.

FOLLOW AND SUPPORT THE PODCAST: Follow the podcast on Instagram at @nightnightb1tch.

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.