The Natural Wisdom Podcast (Kristine Backes)

Friend and colleague Belinda Noakes joined me for this episode, in which we held forth on joy as a power move; why we sometimes get lost in trying to heal endless trauma; and why it's so important to design a joyful life.

Kristine gave an overview of the Taurus Lunar Eclipse of October 28th, and its themes of power, desire and letting go of control. With Venus carrying overtones of Leonine joy for the next 19 months, now is a perfect time for a joy practice!

Join Belinda for her free call on October 30/31st "Once upon an apocalypse"

Learn more about Kristine's six month journey into Power, Passion and Purpose

Emily Trinkaus and I recorded this episode on the Sagittarius Solar Eclipse of December 4th (find the chart here), the last of 2021, and the last on the Gemini-Sagittarius axis for another decade. We covered as much of the current cosmic weather as we had time for, starting with the Eclipse itself and how to work with it, and the themes of all six eclipses along the Gemini-Sagittarius axis of the past year and a half. We'll be doing another podcast episode in January to talk about the changes in the new year! 

Kristine mentioned her upcoming class "Twelve Seasons: The Signs of the Zodiac" on December 10th as well as her deep dive into "The Beauty of Venus" on December 15th, just in time for the Venus retrograde.

You can purchase Emily's recorded insights into today's Solar Eclipse; her webinar all about the powerful Venus retrograde in Capricorn beginning December 26th; or her recorded class on the major tension-producing astrology of the year, the Saturn-Uranus square, which goes exact for the third and final time on December 24th.

The Power with Money course we both mentioned was with Kasia Urbaniak, highly recommended!

Follow Kristine on Patreon to be the first to know about upcoming episodes. Become a patron to support the show!

This was a lovely conversation with teacher, healer, and author Dr. Gulara Vincent on realizing we are more than enough when we uncover our true selves. Gulara uses a wide array of cutting edge healing modalities to help people resolve old traumas to improve every aspect of their lives, including money, relationships, health and more. We talked about money as a doorway into healing; the impacts of inter-generational trauma, and how caring for our wounded child parts can help us not only wake up, but also grow up. 

Gulara has several workshops coming up, all online:

"Already enough" masterclass on December 13th, 2022: http://www.gularavincent.co.uk/already-enough

Five week programme on unlocking unlimited love and unlimited money: http://www.gularavincent.co.uk/unlock

"What do I want" masterclass on January 20th, 2023: http://www.gularavincent.co.uk/want

Kristine is reprising her free Saturn workshop on December 10th, 2022, and working on a couple of special events. Get on her Saturn list for the workshop, recording, and free Saturn Archetypes e-book: https://www.subscribepage.com/getyoursaturn or go to https://kristinebackes.com

Celebrate the December Solstice, and the turning point of the year with a short astro-update; a meditation to help you call in the new; and a prayer for loving-kindness. The astrology of the moment serves as a backdrop for this time of rebirth and renewal. Venus, Goddess of love, money, pleasure, and what we value has just begun its retrograde journey, beginning in partnership with Pluto, God of the Underworld. The restrictive energy of Saturn is in tension with freedom-loving Uranus again this week. 

You can find the chart of the Solstice here if you want to follow along with the astrology: https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/December-Solstice-2021.pdf

Follow me on Patreon, become a patron, or leave a tip on the podcast home page to support the show.

You are not IN a body, you ARE a body. Your body is the expression of your Soul. To reclaim this paradigm is to reclaim our health, and the health of the planet. In this episode, Kristine offers practical suggestions for occupying our bodies, including paying attention to where our attention is directed. One of the lessons of the 7-month journey of Mars in Gemini, which began today, is the power of our attention - and the need to align our attention with our deepest desires.

You can find the meditation I referenced here: https://kristinebackes.com/2020/04/08/love-your-body-guided-meditation/

Here is an article from Kristine on occupying yourself: https://kristinebackes.com/2019/01/28/occupy-yourself/

For an in-depth look at the astrology of Mars retrograde in Gemini, check out this class with Emily Trinkaus: https://embodiedaquarian.com/classes/p/mars-retro-22

The Aries Equinox and New Moon of 2023 come in the midst of a huge shift of energies in our world. Many Aquarian themes have come to the foreground over the past few years: information and technology; social patterns and agreements; science; astrology; and even what we think of as 'truth' are increasingly subjects of deep conflict. This New Moon and Equinox are turning point in the story, and present the opportunity for each of us to commit to new beginnings. Join Kristine on March 21st for her workshop on Transformation of Humanity: First look at Pluto in Aquarius Or catch the recording of Time of Transition 2023: Between paradigms

The Scorpio New Moon occurs this Thursday** afternoon/evening in the heart of the sign. In this short bonus episode, I talk about the portal between the worlds of this lunation, which marks the 'official' start to Eclipse season. Download a chart of this New Moon for free, complete with a legend of symbols.

Want to learn astrology? I'm teaching The Planets in Astrology on Saturday, November 13th. Check it out!

Support (or just follow) the podcast on Patreon, and please share it if you like it!

**Corrected from my earlier note saying Wednesday!

This was another amazing conversation with Emily Trinkaus, full of cosmic wisdom for this season of new beginnings and the big shifts coming in the new year. We talked about the power of Saturn at this Solstice and Capricorn New Moon; and the huge shift of energies with Saturn's move from Aquarius to Pisces in March of 2023. Other topics included Saturn as Santa Claus (really!), and the question of whether Saturn means hard work, or making work hard, or something different altogether.

Emily will be co-hosting an online astrology summit at the beginning February, and Kristine will be participating as well. Make sure to join one or both of our mailing lists to find out more details as they are available:

https://kristinebackes.com/newsletter-sign-up/

https://embodiedaquarian.com/

Just a few days after the Cancer Solstice, astrologer and teacher Emily Trinkaus shared her passion and growing knowledge of biodynamic farming, a way of working with the forces of the cosmos, the elements, and the earth to grow food that nourishes us physically as well as spiritually. In a culture that has long separated science and spirit, this was a refreshing and hopeful look at a discipline that reunites traditional and modern, scientific and spiritual to help us remember our natural wisdom and belonging to both Earth and Cosmos.

Biodynamic agriculture, based in the work of 'spiritual scientist' and founder of anthroposophy Rudolf Steiner goes beyond sustainable or regenerative farming by working with the metaphysical forces of the cosmos. Emily recommended the book "Agriculture Abridged", by Jeff Poppin as an accessible starting point to Steiner's course on biodynamic agriculture.

Emily inspired us with a number of her observations and experiences, including:

• As humans, we are here to bridge the energies of earth and cosmos;
• Why many people are stuck in such a materialistic consciousness today;
• Her next level understanding of the planets and their forces through biodynamic processes;
• Her experience of profound, practical earth magic in biodynamic preparations.

Find out more about Emily at EmbodiedAquarian.com

This episode was recorded at the Leo Full Moon, 2023, which this year coincides with the cross-quarter holyday of Imbolc/Candlemas. After a short peek at the Full Moon and the Leo/Aquarius polarity, I spent a good portion of this episode defining what embodiment is - and is not - and how you can more fully occupy your body by aligning with the Sun's cycle, using the eight phases of the Solar year. The graphic I shared on the video is a Celtic wheel of the year.

If you are feeling called to greater ownership of your life through the archetype of Saturn, check out my Own your Saturn, Own your life program beginning February 14, 2023.

On the eve of the Equinox, I had the pleasure of talking with Ally Leadbetter, creatrix of Wild Betty Healing Arts, on coming into heart coherence, knowing your 'station' - and re-membering your place as part of the wild world wherever you are. We talked about the soul loss many of us have experienced because of our disconnection with the natural world; how coming back to the true Self is the ultimate protection from and antidote to conditioning; the power of some special places on the Earth right here in Montana; our DNA as our antenna; and more.

Wild Betty Healing Arts is a holistic wellness approach to understanding the mind, body, soul, spirit connection to empower each client to reclaim their wholeness, holiness, and energetic sovereignty. Ally works at the intersection of the earth and energetic realms, specializing in channeling the subtle energies that are in a constant dynamic dance with the physical world. Working thru a variety of modalities such as energy transmission healings, channeled information, ancestral work, earth medicine work (earth attunements, crystal therapy, herbalism, animal guides), spirit guide connection, vibrational sound therapy, trance journey work, shadow work, home and land healing,  and tarot readings, she is able to help you remember your connection  to your most authentic and sovereign self.

Learn more about Ally's Reviving Eden retreat here.

Set up a time to chat with Ally about her Chrysallis spiritual alchemy course here.

Check out Kristine's work here: https://kristinebackes.com/

In this second episode of The Natural Wisdom Podcast, I talk briefly about the New Moon in Leo, the cross-quarter holy day of Lammas, and then discuss how - and why - to align our lives with the seasons. You can find the gentle seasonal cleanse protocol I referenced here.

In the next scheduled episode on September 18th, I'll be interviewing long-time astrologer Emily Trinkaus. Among other topics, we'll be talking about how astrology helps us be more connected to the natural world, not mention ourselves. Patrons at $8 and above can join us live!

Emily Trinkaus and I talked about how to deepen into our souls, flow with the vastness of Pisces, and choose our destiny as embodied humans in another epic Cosmic Conversation. We also discussed simple ways to connect with body and Earth in the midst of a Piscean deluge of feeling. 

You can find all of Emily's offerings, including the Embodied Aquarian Podcast on her new website: https://embodiedaquarian.com/

There is still time to join her live online class, Astrology 101: Foundations of the Cosmic Science! https://embodiedaquarian.com/classes/p/astro-101 

The Lunar begins in late March: https://embodiedaquarian.com/thelunar

Kristine's class on The Deeps and Dreams of Neptune, offered in the gift, is coming up on March 23rd: https://kristinebackes.com/product/the-deeps-and-dreams-of-neptune/

Want personal insight and support? Book a reading! https://kristinebackes.com/soul-guidance-astrology/

Thank you for listening! If you like the podcast and want to help keep it going and growing, become a patron or support me here on Anchor.fm

Spiritual herbalist and energy healer Angela Segraves was my guest today. We talked about plants, and the many ways we can consciously connect with them and allow them to help us. We each had some stories on how plants have 'spoken' to us, and Angela led us through a meditation to find one of our plant allies. Part of our conversation covered re-learning that everything around us is conscious and in communication with us, if we simply allow ourselves to receive the wisdom. 

Angela has a couple of offerings coming up:

On November 2nd, a free virtual workshop on "Healing Ancestral Karma with the Akashic Records"

Then, beginning in February, 2022, she is offering a hands-on 11 month herbal apprenticeship. 

You can follow me and/or support the show on Patreon. And if you like the show, please share it!

After a long period of containment, we are finally entering a period of free-flowing expansion. Kristine explains some of the vast opportunities and pitfalls of Jupiter, the planet of expansion, in its home sign of the great mystery - Pisces. Pisces and Virgo together make up the axis of purification, preparation and health. As with all polarity, our work is to find conscious integration of these opposites to support our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.

Join Kristine for a deep dive into all aspects of the planet Neptune, God(dess) of the sea and modern 'ruler' of Pisces on March 23rd: https://kristinebackes.com/product/the-deeps-and-dreams-of-neptune/

Find a free simple home cleanse protocol, plus guided relaxation and meditation recordings on Kristine's Resources page: https://kristinebackes.com/resources/

Thank you for listening! Support me to continue and improve the podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes  or right here on Anchor.fm

Keep in touch: https://kristinebackes.com/newsletter-sign-up/

Saturn, despite its reputation as the 'greater malefic' (i.e. bad guy), holds the keys to embodied human life. Saturn is known as the Lord of Karma, as well as the pointer to our dharma, our life purpose. Contraction, limits, boundaries, crystallization and manifestation are Saturn's assignments. Our personal Saturn archetype shows us where we have limited ourselves and our lives. Reclaiming Saturn allows us to reclaim the gifts of our embodied human lives.

Kristine has a whole lotta Saturn in her chart, and is embarking on a Saturn journey to have the life she wants. And she is inviting you to join her! 

Sign up for Kristine's free Saturn archetype workshop, on October 22nd 2022: https://www.subscribepage.com/getyoursaturn

Find out more about Kristine: https://kristinebackes.com

My friend and colleague, Belinda Noakes, and I switched it up in this episode: she interviewed me about my Saturn reclamation story. The planet Saturn in astrology represents manifestation, achievement, authority, and karma. When we are out of alignment with ourselves, or living according to external rules, Saturn lets us know. I imagine many others will recognize themselves in the disappointment, burnout and discomfort of living life according to 'should', 'could', and external measures of success. 

Belinda and I also talked about our parallel journeys of the past dozen years - leaving corporate positions; traveling in India; pursuing enlightenment; and, finally, meeting for the first time at a very different kind of spiritual retreat right here in Montana. 

In the final moments of the episode, I shared the magical results of my Saturn journey so far. 

I am deep in the cauldron of creation of an online program to help you own your Saturn and own your life. Make sure to sign up for my Saturn list to stay tuned and get the details: https://www.subscribepage.com/getyoursaturn You'll also receive information on the classes I have coming up on the astrological turning points of 2023, and how to put the astrological energies to work for you.

And for the super-sensitive among us, get on Belinda's list for her free workshop and information on the tinybrave way to heal heartbreak and claim sensitivity as a super-power: https://www.tinybrave.com/

In this 20 minute meditation, Kristine helps you honor your inner Sun, your digestive fire. This bonus podcast episode is the first in a series of meditations on the Sun, Moon and planets and how their cycles are reflected in our own lives. Reclaim your natural wisdom by claiming your connection with the Sun.

Nature is a mirror, showing us how we relate to life, death, and wildness. In this episode, I told some bear stories, talked about reclaiming wildness, and gave a preview of the Mars/Uranus/North Node conjunction in Taurus on July 30.

Learn more about me here: https://kristinebackes.com

Emily Trinkaus joined me a few days before the Libra Equinox to talk about the current cosmic forces, including the October eclipses and Saturday's Equinox in Libra. Themes of self-love, joy, and understanding the difference between your innate power and its shadow of manipulation were all part of our discussion.

The inner planets (Mercury and Venus) are moving forward again, but the outer planets are still in retrograde motion, offering us time to integrate what we have discovered these past weeks.

We also touched on the US Pluto return, a transformational turning point for our country!

Find more about Emily and her bi-weekly Moon updates here: https://embodiedaquarian.com/moon-updates

Connect with Kristine here: https://kristinebackes.com/

Charts we used in the podcast: https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Libra-Equinox-2023.pdf, https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Solar-Eclipse-10-23.pdf, https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Lunar-Eclipse-10-23.pdf

Animals are teachers and guides, from wolves to family pets, and they are talking to us all the time. In my conversation with Kim Shotola of The Lightfoot Way, we told a few stories of our own animal encounters, and Kim led us through a short meditation to connect with an animal and find out what it might have to tell us.

You can find all of her offerings here: https://www.thelightfootway.com/classes/

And join her newsletter list here: https://www.thelightfootway.com/join-our-email-list/

The class I mentioned on The Planets in Astrology is here: https://kristinebackes.com/product/the-planets-in-astrology/

And don't forget to mark your calendars for my next live podcast episode with astrologer Emily Trinkaus, scheduled for Saturday, December 4th at 10 a.m. Mountain. We will be talking about the current astro-weather, including eclipses, Venus, and more! Become a patron at the $8 tier to join us live.

I'd love for you to share the podcast with your friends, and perhaps you know someone who wants to become a patron, too!

The ancient story of Queen Inanna's journey to the Underworld mirrors almost exactly the travel of Venus in her 19 month synodic cycle. The Queen of Heaven corresponds to Venus as the morning star, where she emerged only days ago. The Queen of Heaven and Earth reflects Venus after her Underworld death and subsequent resurrection as an evening star, which occurs at the end of 2022. In this episode, I give an overview of Venus' cycle and read the story of Inanna with commentary on the relationship between sky and story. 

I used a few slides to illustrate today, which you may find here: https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Venus-as-Inanna-TWNP-1-22-22.pdf

The first gate to the Underworld in this cycle occurs on January 29th at 11 degrees of Capricorn. In the myth, this is when Inanna removes her royal crown. Stay tuned as we follow the descent of Venus through the gates as Venus conjoins the waning crescent Moon each month!

Want to learn more about Venus? Check out my deep dive, pay what you want: https://kristinebackes.com/product/the-beauty-of-venus/

Your support keeps me going, both literally and figuratively! You can become a patron, or support the podcast right on anchor.fm, or just share it with your friends!

In this episode, recorded just a few days after the Cancer Solstice, I talk about cycles of light and dark, and especially the experience of dark times. One of the gifts of astrology is greater perspective on the timing of and cooperation with the heavier times of our lives. I shared some of my thoughts and experience with depression and the 'dark night of the Soul'.

The book I mentioned is "Learning to Walk in the Dark" by Barbara Brown Taylor.

The other author I mentioned who has written authentically about his experiences of depression is Parker Palmer. One of my favorite books is titled "Let Your Life Speak".

Book a consultation with Kristine:

https://kristinebackes.com/work-with-kristine/

In another epic conversation with astrologer and teacher Emily Trinkaus, we discussed the wisdom of astrology, what we are really doing as astrologers, and how we wield it consciously as we enter the Aquarian age. With Mars in Gemini until March of 2023, including its rare retrograde period, this is an important time to be aware of the power of our words, and 'our word as our wand'.

Emily's recent class on the upcoming Mars retrograde in Gemini is available by recording: https://embodiedaquarian.com/classes/p/mars-retro-22

Learn more about Emily's online course The Art and Practice of Astrology: https://embodiedaquarian.com/classes/p/art-practice-astro

Sign up for Kristine's free Q and A on her online Fall Reset gentle Ayurvedic cleanse: https://www.subscribepage.com/fall_reset_2022

In this short episode, I mark my imminent emergence from Pluto's Underworld, and our collective immersion in the darkness during the US Pluto return.

You can learn more about Pluto in my recorded class, or read about my personal Plutonian experiences.

Follow me or support the podcast on Patreon!

Does the fear of persecution keep you from your natural wisdom? Prevent you from speaking what you know? In this episode of The Natural Wisdom Podcast, healer Belinda Noakes and I went there - to the echoes in today's world of the Inquisition and the 'burning times', the difficulty in holding our center and our balance during a time of intense polarization, and some work on healing the trauma.

At about 45 minutes in to the episode, Belinda led me through a healing exercise to clear the fear of even having this conversation and releasing it on the podcast!!

We touched on polarizing topics, yet with the intention of holding space for all viewpoints. Clearly, The Natural Wisdom Podcast takes the 'side' of staying connected with ourselves as nature, and there is tension today between natural versus synthetic/technological treatments for everything from human health to climate. It is my great desire to contribute to awareness that allows us to make conscious choices on the personal and collective level that keep us in touch with our membership in the Earth's ecosystem.

Want more of Belinda's healing work? Find her here: https://belindajoynoakes.com

The workshop I mentioned in the podcast is here: https://kristinebackes.com/product/beyond-2020/

Sign up as a patron to see the video versions and to join the live episodes: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes  or support the podcast on Anchor.fm: https://anchor.fm/natural-wisdom

I've learned a lot from the beings of nature, from bears to trees. In this short bonus episode, I share some basic lessons, such as:

Be fully present

Mind your own business

Learn to share

Respect and honor everyone!

Want greater access to your natural wisdom? Book a session

From the white lions of Timbavati, to the asteroid Chiron, to the importance of spiritual practice to health, today's conversation with psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, astrologer, and holistic healer Dr. Judy Tsafrir bridged many dimensions. We discussed Judy's new book, "Sacred Psychiatry: Bridging the personal and transpersonal to transform health and consciousness", and its combination of personal stories, practical guidance, and deeply felt commentary on the state of medicine and health in today's world.

We met on the eve of the New Moon in Sagittarius, calling on its atmosphere of expansiveness and imagination.

Judy's accessible, helpful and fascinating book is available for pre-order now, and will be published on Jan. 2nd, 2024. Find out more here: https://judytsafrirmdauthor.com/

Find out more about Kristine's ritual and celebration at the Solstice (live or by recording): https://kristinebackes.com/product/solstice-ritual-retreat-2024/

The first official episode of The Natural Wisdom Podcast is July 10th, 2021. In this trailer, get a quick intro to what the podcast is all about.

Listen to my story of receiving wisdom on the banks of a mountain stream, a particularly timely reminder on finding balance this Libra season.

This episode is also available as a blog post: https://kristinebackes.com/2021/10/01/message-from-the-forest/

Remember you can follow me on Patreon for updates on the podcast, or become a patron to support the show and join the live sessions.

Our relationship with our food mirrors our relationship with our bodies, and the body of the Earth. Our cultural food karma is based on a reductionist view of the world, and we see the havoc this creates with our health and the health of the planet. 

In this episode, I draw on Ayurveda, yoga, and nature to talk about how we can shift our karma and reclaim reverence for our food. Not just what we eat, but when, where, how and even why are important. 

The two books I mentioned are "The Yoga of Eating", by Charles Eisenstein; and "The Three Season Diet", by Dr. John Douillard. Both are excellent for helping us shift our understanding of food, diets, and health.

Thank you for listening! If you want to support the podcast, become a patron: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes

Find out more about me or book a consultation here: https://kristinebackes.com/

We are in a concentrated period of change in the world right now. It kicked off in 2020 with the Saturn-Pluto conjunction, and culminates in 2026 with the Saturn-Neptune conjunction. The old ways are breaking down and we have the opportunity to co-create the new.

Lots of people are "prepping" for more chaos, more breakdown. Can you be available for what you really want, the dreams that inspire you?

In this episode, get the details on what is changing, and why your dream matters. Focus on the future you want and co-create a more beautiful world by working with the cosmic forces.

Watch Kristine's free workshop and learn more about the September intensive to co-create your beautiful future.

In this inaugural episode of The Natural Wisdom Podcast, I introduce myself and how I got 'here', some of the basic principles of the podcast, and what led to its creation. The episode weaves together astrology, Ayurveda, a touch of modern physics and some practical advice on aligning your life with Nature's rhythms.

The video version is available for all my patrons on Patreon (Kristine Backes) as well as a pdf of the slides I used for the podcast. $8 patrons also received a handout on lifestyle practices for aligning with Nature.

Finally, all planets are moving forward! If you have felt sluggish or stuck this past month, take heart. Venus and Mercury just turned direct, the Sun reached the cross-quarter holyday of Imbolc, and the days are getting noticeably longer in the northern hemisphere. This episode covers the wisdom of the retrogrades in light of the past couple of years; how to change your lifestyle to synchronize with the season; and some insight into where we are in Venus' journey to the Underworld. Here is the chart for Imbolc: https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Imbolc-2022.pdf

On February 23rd, join Kristine to understand the planet Uranus, the "Great Awakener" and revolutionary: https://kristinebackes.com/product/in-the-name-of-freedom-uranus-in-astrology/

This blog post from a couple of years ago offers some additional perspective on how lifestyle can be medicine: https://kristinebackes.com/2020/04/18/sacred-rhythms-of-life-and-health/

Join us live by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes

In the previous episode on Scorpio season, I mixed up my days and referred to the Scorpio New Moon incorrectly as happening on Wednesday, rather than Thursday, November 4th. In this short episode, I clear that up and talk about how to work with the often shocking and unexpected energies of the planet Uranus, the 'star' of this week's New Moon show. I couldn't resist mentioning Venus again, too!

Join me for a deep dive into the planets in astrology on November 13th: https://kristinebackes.com/product/the-planets-in-astrology/

Follow me on Patreon. Become a patron to support the show and join the live episodes!

This was a lovely conversation with bio-energy healer and HumanSpirit Radio creator Sarah McCroskey. We went deep into the subjects of polarity versus duality; finding the body as a safe place to be; the current opportunity for healing trauma; and the body as intelligent and conscious.  Sarah's website and healing work can be found here: http://www.biointegration.com/ Listen to past HumanSpirit Radio programs and interviews here: http://www.humanspiritradio.com/ Kristine's offerings, including individual consultations are here: https://kristinebackes.com/

Astrologer Emily Trinkaus joined me again today to talk about topics from the current eclipse season, to relationship astrology (and her upcoming course!) and finding our power within. As always, we had a lively discussion about how to work with the astro-energies in our lives.

The first eclipse of 2023 was at the very last degree of Aries, sign of the courage to be yourself; the next eclipse, on May 5th is a completion of the eclipse pattern begun in January of 2022. The eclipses come at a pivot point in this great time of transition initiated in 2020.

Learn more and sign up for Emily's course on relationship astrology here: https://embodiedaquarian.com/classes/p/synastry-workshop

Find out more and register for Kristine's workshop on the shifting karma of the eclipses here: https://kristinebackes.com/product/lunar-nodes-karma-2023/

The body is an expression of the Soul, and how you treat your body is a direct reflection of how you treat the Earth. But our dominator culture teaches us to control our bodies, rather than learn to deeply listen. The Libra Full Moon on April 5th/6th invites us into co-creation in all of our relationships, in particular our bodies. This Full Moon also opens the portal into eclipse season of 2023. With Pluto squaring the eclipse axis throughout most of the year, one of the major karmic lessons is about how we use our power: will we give in to authoritarianism, or learn cooperation?

Learn more about Kristine and her work here: https://kristinebackes.com

Samhain is the traditional cross-quarter holyday celebrating the end of the harvest. This year, 2022, this time of growing darkness and thinning veils coincides with Mars turning retrograde and an intense Eclipse season. In this episode, Kristine talks about re-evaluating the stories and thoughts that keep us in fear, and offers a few practices for celebrating the season.

Learn more about Kristine and her offerings here: https://kristinebackes.com

In this episode, the 23rd this year, Kristine continues in her examination of healing the karma of believing ourselves separate from Nature. We are at the convergence of several 'gates': the ancient cross-quarter holy day of Lammas/Lughnasadh/First Harvest (August 7); Lion's Gate (August 8); the Sun at the Eclipse mid-point (August 10) and the Aquarius Full Moon (August 11). How might we put this time of turnarounds and breakthroughs to use to 'break out' of our story of separation? Kristine tells a very personal story of one of her own recent breakthroughs.

Want to learn more about the life assignment of your Lunar Nodes? Join Kristine on Friday, August 29th for her workshop on the subject: https://kristinebackes.com/product/karmic-life-work-lunar-nodes/

Source for Chief Luther Standing Bear quotes: http://www.indigenouspeople.net/standbea.htm

Kristine's story on 'remembering' what it means to be indigenous: https://www.patreon.com/posts/indigenous-grief-20322485

Website for Charlotte Kanyi, who specializes in healing birth trauma using the Compassion Key: https://www.birthessence.co.uk

Become a patron!

Today's conjunction between Venus and the Sun in Capricorn marks the halfway point in Venus' retrograde period, and an initiation of a new 19 month cycle. This week rolls out a number of astrological turning points in addition to today's conjunction, including Mercury's retrograde beginning January 14th; Uranus stationing direct on the 17th; the Cancer Full Moon on the 17th; and, perhaps the biggest shift, the Lunar Nodes shifting into the signs Taurus and Scorpio on the 18th. Our exploration of these events began a far-reaching conversation about a variety of topics, including money, relationships, trauma, manifesting, and remembering to stay connected into our bodies during times of anxiety. 

Here is the chart we used: https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/VenusSun-Conjunction-1-8-22.pdf

Find more about Emily and her offerings here: https://emilytrinkaus.com

More about Kristine and her offerings here: https://kristinebackes.com/

Get a 22% discount on readings with Kristine purchased by January 15th with the code NEWYEAR22

To support the podcast, become a supporter here on Anchor.fm, or find Kristine on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes

[We got a little excited and a couple of swear words slipped out, thus the explicit label!]

Emily Trinkaus joined the podcast for another of our Cosmic Wisdom conversations. As power planet Pluto hangs out at 0 degrees of Aquarius for weeks, all the personal planets - Mercury, Mars and Venus - pass over it.

Our conversation focused on what these current astro-energies mean on a personal level and how to use them to become more conscious, including: the importance of fully being ourselves; the power (and shadows) of astrology; allowing our minds to be blown; and trusting ourselves at all levels.

In true Aquarian fashion, we took questions from our live audience in this episode! And we didn't watch our language, thus the 'mature' rating.

Local to Livingston? Join Kristine's course to Learn the Language of Astrology: https://kristinebackes.com/product/chart-interpretation-2024/

Check out Emily's astrology mentorship here: https://embodiedaquarian.com/mentorship

Here is a short take on today's New Moon in the sign of Virgo, and how to work with it. The reset and cleanse protocol I mentioned is also on the Resources page of my website, and my fall class schedule will be up soon on kristinebackes.com 

The next live episode of the podcast records on September 18th, an interview with astrologer (and my mentor) Emily Trinkaus. Patrons at $8 and above can join me live; all patrons get early access to the video version of the podcast. Follow me on Patreon for more updates and previews!

This episode comes on the heels of the ancient cross-quarter holyday of Imbolc here in the northern hemisphere, and as the archetype of the wounded healer approaches the North Node of the Moon in Aries, the sign of I AM.

This configuration in Aries offers an opportunity to reclaim your sense of yourself as sacred, and heal the wound of separation from your sense of belonging here, now.

The practitioner I mentioned who specializes in healing your birth wound is Charlotte Kanyi, of Birth Essence. She was my guest on the podcast in October of 2022.

This is the video version (available on Spotify) of today's podcast episode: In this epic conversation just hours after the Scorpio Lunar Eclipse,  Kristine and Emily discussed the purpose of eclipses and the work of clearing old karmic patterns. Power was the main topic, and especially how we reclaim our power through fully occupying our bodies. Kristine shared her epic realization about unconditional receiving, a  life-changing concept but one consistent with the ways of nature and the  cosmos.

You can find out more about Kristine and her offerings here: https://kristinebackes.com

All of  Emily's offerings, including the classes we mentioned in this episode, are here: https://embodiedaquarian.com

Check out Emily's podcast, the Embodied Aquarian: https://embodiedaquarian.com/podcast

You can support The Natural Wisdom Podcast by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes

Karma is a concept from the tradition of yoga that is much misused in Western culture. In this episode, I spent some time defining karma as well as talking about how it is created, and how we can release it. My primary source, in case this is a topic near and dear to your heart as well, is an introduction to and translation of the Bhagavad Gita by Eknath Easwaran. The Gita is one of the foundational texts of yoga, and Easwaran's beautiful rendition includes an insightful and comprehensive explanation of some of the basic concepts underpinning yoga philosophy, karma among them.

I use our relationship with Nature and our bodies as examples of how we might see karma in our world today.

More about me on my website: https://kristinebackes.com

Find out more about your personal karma with an astrology reading: https://kristinebackes.com/soul-guidance-astrology/

You can join the live sessions or view the video recordings by becoming a patron here: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes

Astrologer Emily Trinkaus joined me on the podcast to shed light on the October 2nd Solar Eclipse in Libra. In this sign of relationship, balance, harmony and the other, the Libra Eclipse highlights how we relate - to each other as well as the world around us.

This eclipse has signatures of both endings as well as new beginnings. It may well bring up some of the shadow aspects of Libra, such as being more focused on what other people think and what we project onto others.

Prepare for a rebirth by slowing down, and spend time dreaming into the future you want!

Find Emily's offerings at https://embodiedaquarian.com/ and https://embodiedaquarian.substack.com/

Find Kristine at https://kristinebackes.com/https://kristinebackes.com/

We are in the midst of the most significant astrology of 2022, with Jupiter conjunct Neptune in Pisces and Saturn squaring the Lunar Nodes. Building a little on last week's episode, Kristine goes into the opportunities of this time to release old conditioning and karmic imprints around our relationship with the Earth, our bodies, and more.

For a personal look at how these energies show up in your life, learn more about consultations with Kristine: https://kristinebackes.com/soul-guidance-astrology/

To join the live sessions and discussion, watch the video podcast, or simply support the show, become a patron: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes

In this first episode of 2024, Kristine shared a preview of some of the energetic shifts coming our way, and some practical guidance on how to stay centered and healthy in the midst of the chaos.

Slow-moving, intense planet Pluto moves from Capricorn to Aquarius on January 20th, changing the very nature of power dynamics, especially in our relationship to technology, information, and society.

Stay grounded an centered by tapping into your unique frequency and building your subtle awareness.

Want more detail about the astrology of 2024? Check out Kristine's workshop The Shock of the New or book a reading.

Sign-up for the Natural Wisdom Newsletter on Kristine's website to get a discount on all of Kristine's recorded workshops.

Happy New Year 2022! With a New Moon at the very start of the New Year, we have lots of energetic support for setting intentions. Venus retrograde may bring some realignment and reevaluation, particularly around money and our relationship with the material realm. In this episode, I talk about Capricorn themes and some of the healing opportunities for 2022.

I'm offering a 22% discount on readings booked before January 15th, using the code NEWYEAR22 when you purchase. 

https://kristinebackes.com/soul-guidance-astrology/

The next episode of the podcast will be another Cosmic Wisdom conversation with astrologer Emily Trinkaus, scheduled for January 8th. Patrons at the $8 tier can join us live!

If you are enjoying the podcast, please share it! You can also support it by becoming a patron, or a supporter on Anchor.fm.

Thanks for listening!

In this third live episode of The Natural Wisdom Podcast, it was my pleasure and honor to interview astrologer, writer, teacher, healer Emily Trinkaus. We covered a lot of ground, including astrology as a healing art; practical suggestions for getting started with - or deepening your connection with - astrology; astrology as a way of connecting with natural cycles; and a brief foray into current astrological energies and how they are playing out in our lives. Emily will be a regular guest on the podcast, and later this year we'll cover some major shifts in the astro-weather, and take a peek into 2022.

Here are links to some of the programs we mentioned on the show:

Emily's Lunar Attunement subscription; join her e-mail list to be notified of individual New and Full Moon updates, available in the gift.

Kristine's Fall Reset for body and mind, a gentle cleanse process to help your body adjust to the change of seasons.

The video version of this podcast episode is available to patrons, and you can follow the podcast updates on Patreon, or become a patron to attend all the live podcast episodes.

In the run-up to Monday's Solar Eclipse in Aries, there was a whole lot of pop astrology coming from fear, with all sorts of end-of-world predictions. This is a misunderstanding, at best, and misuse at worst, of the power of astrology and other ways of working with the mystery behind the visible world.

Each one of us gets to choose - or at least stay curious about - whether we see the cosmic forces as friend or foe. In this episode, Kristine talks about astrology as a way of being in conscious conversation with the cosmos.

Get in touch or check out my services on my website.

We are in a fascinating time of transition between the ages - Pisces and Aquarius, among others. Learning to become your own authority, and fully embody your Soul, your unique 'frequency' will be the key to thriving in the midst of change. This episode covers why increased sensitivity is what we want, along with being more deeply rooted in our physical existence; Kristine shared a few of her favorite embodiment practices, too.

Catch Kristine's recorded workshop on this Time of Transition here: https://kristinebackes.com/product/time-of-transition-2023/

Register for her workshop on February 4th on Saturn's move into Pisces here: https://kristinebackes.com/product/dreams-into-reality-saturn-in-pisces/

Register for the free online summit The Aquarian High Council: Astrology in the age of truth, love and freedom: https://www.venuswisdom.com/Aquarian-Council-2023 

If you're an astrology lover who has seen through the veil of illusion and dared to question the status quo, this event is for you!

In this time of transition and entering the age of Aquarius, one of the watchwords is authenticity. But what is it, how do we do it, and is it worth it? Guru-maker James Deneka Lavers joins the podcast to ask and answer these questions. We talk about discerning truth from fiction within yourself, the 'age of facade', the risks of being authentic, and why it might not really be a choice any more.

James Deneka Lavers has been a leader in coaching the gurus of the personal, professional and spiritual development industry to even greater success for over 20 years. He has worked with a wide variety of luminaries as well as companies large and small, and has a reputation for honesty, authenticity, and even some butt-kicking.

Find out more about James and his work here: imakegurus.com

Join Kristine's workshop on Pluto's transformation of Aquarian themes: https://kristinebackes.com/product/first-look-pluto-in-aquarius/

In this episode of The Natural Wisdom Podcast, Kristine and Kendra had a wide-ranging conversation about remembering ourselves as nature embodied in human form. We talked about both why and how to heal the perceived split between human and nature; what 're-wilding' means and how to get started in your life, not matter where you live; and the process of awakening to ourselves as part of nature.

We recorded the session just as the Sun moved into the sign of Virgo, and the energy of the season was very much a part of the conversation. 

I had the honor of being interviewed on Kendra's podcast, Woman Who Rubs the Mountain, earlier this year. You can find it here: https://www.kendraward.com/podcasts/woman-who-rubs-the-mountain/episodes/2147716580

You can find out more about Kendra here: https://www.kendraward.com

More about Kristine here: https://kristinebackes.com

What happens when two Capricorn women have a conversation about healing? We get practical. Michelle Lundquist, of Michelle's Healing Home and a podcast by the same name, is a 'home maker', herbalist, and wise woman in the primordial tradition. In our wide ranging conversation about plants, developing a relationship with nature, and becoming your own 'mad scientist', we touched on some fascinating topics, including:

How to face the programming to fear nature;

Practical ways of developing your relationship with plants, whether in your garden or the wild;

The folk medicine versus scientific approaches to herbalism;

Building trust in your intuition and direct knowing;

Michelle's experience and surprising results with urine therapy.

References Michelle mentioned include the book "Healing Wise" by Susun Weed; Dr. Amandha Vollmer; and author Barbara Walker on symbols.

Michelle is a folk herbalist, gardener and homemaker with a passion for plants and their

ability to heal deeply. An herbal enthusiast since 2013, much of Michelle's knowledge has

come from personal, hands-on experience and mentors of the wise woman tradition. A do-it-

yourself spirit permeates her work as she encourages folks to take their well-being into their

own hands.

Michelle creates and shares small batch, handcrafted remedies through her monthly

newsletter and offers her skills through tutorials, articles and more. She is also the host of

The Healing Home podcast which can be found on YouTube, Rumble & Spotify.

You can find Michelle and sign up for her monthly newsletter here: https://www.michelleshealinghome.com/

Listen to Michelle's Healing Home podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/@michelleshealinghome

Find Kristine here: https://kristinebackes.com/

At the Aries Full Moon, I had the pleasure of examining the astrology of leadership with Beth Cavagnolo, leadership and human resource expert, witch, and sister astrologer. Some of the key points we covered were:

everyone leads in one way or another;

astrology can give us great insight into our styles of leadership;

understanding each other's differences allows us to work together with more ease.

One of Beth's guiding principles is to give each other the benefit of the doubt!

Find out more about Beth through her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/winterwitch1221

Or LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethcavagnolo/

Kristine's website: https://kristinebackes.com

Continuing the conversation about karma, I offer a short introduction to karma in the natal chart in this short episode. Although all parts of the chart are indicators of karma, how we create it and how we can unlock it, there are a couple of specific places to start. In addition to mentioning Pluto, Saturn and the Lunar Nodes, I also introduced the four elements and their energy signatures.

Join me on June 24th for a free introductory class on Karma in the Chart. I will be following it up with a series of three classes on finding karmic signatures in your natal chart, and then an experiential course in the fall on Embodied Awakening through the integration of opposites.

Find the position of your Lunar Nodes: https://cafeastrology.com/northnodetables.html

Book a personal reading with me to explore your unique potential.

Become a patron to support the podcast!

In the final week of the first eclipse season of 2023, we are in the midst of a strong dose of feminine, or yin, energy. This episode is devoted to reclaiming the balance of yin and yang in a culture that over-values doing, thinking and productivity and dismisses the value of stillness, quiet, and rest.

As Mercury finishes its retrograde journey in slow, sensual Taurus and we approach Friday's New Moon in that earthy sign, give yourself permission to do nothing, nap, and daydream.

The book I referenced on the show is titled "Rest is Resistance: A manifesto", by Tricia Hersey, creatrix of The Nap Ministry: https://thenapministry.wordpress.com/

Learn more about reclaiming your natural wisdom with Kristine at kristinebackes.com

On the second anniversary of The Natural Wisdom Podcast, Dr. Kristian Strang and I talked about the many paths to uncovering our innate natural wisdom. One subject we came back to several times is the danger of getting stuck in 'finding our tribe' by seeing differences instead of common values. We also talked quite a bit about the power of fiction and stories to convey wisdom.

Kristian is a mystic, metaphysical psychologist and an Amazon bestselling author. She’s written 12 books in the genres of visionary fiction, paranormal romance, and channeled message Oracles.

Kristian has been featured in a variety of publications and as a featured speaker on a number of podcasts and summits, including her own podcast, Awakening: The Podcast. When she’s not doing all of that, you’ll find her dance-walking on the Oregon Coast or baking it up in the kitchen for her high-vibe nutrition blog, Metaphysical Menu. You can also receive free meditations and transmissions from Dr. Kristian at: www.Sacred-Spirituality.org. 

Kristian's latest book, The Angelics: Wildest Dreams is now available for pre-order. Go on "a wild ride of destined lovers, magic, divine counterparts, Angels and so much more (inspired by IRL events)".

Find out more about Kristine and her work at kristinebackes.com

Astrologer Emily Trinkaus joined me today to talk about the unique energies of this Capricorn Solstice on December 21st, and using the power of your mind to create the world and life you want to live in. Some of the alignments we discussed include these:

This is the last Solstice for nearly 250 years with Pluto in Capricorn, bringing forward the question of how we use our power;

Mercury is exactly conjunct the Sun at the Solstice, a rare occurrence emphasizing the need and opportunity for 'mental ownership' and sovereignty, as well as the power of our attention;

Venus has a great deal of influence at the Solstice, and the alignment with Uranus offers a chance to break free from old trauma stories and resentments.

We also discussed, explained, and shared a rant about the ever-recurring and unnecessary debate over the difference between the tropical (with the seasons) versus sidereal (with the stars) Zodiacs. We shared our views on why they both work, they are both accurate, and each Zodiac has its own form of elegance.

Chart of the Capricorn Solstice

Graphic of the equinoxes, solstices, and their correspondence to the Zodiac

Find out more about Emily's work

Learn more about Kristine's online Solstice retreat

Career coach and astrologer Aubrie De Clerck joined me on the podcast in a conversation about experiencing more joy, confidence and empowerment at work. Aubrie's journey with astrology began at her first Saturn return. One of the questions we considered was: how can we be human, and safely bring our whole selves to our work in a broken system?

Other topics and insights:

Astrology offers a framework for and deeper understanding of what we are experiencing in our lives;

Our 'threads' are basic aspects of ourselves that don't change;

Chiron and Vesta as key clues to what keeps us stuck and what propels us forward;

We can't do our lives "wrong"!

Aubrie De Clerck is a Career Coach and Astrologer who helps people open doors to fulfilling work. As a career coach, Aubrie has over 15 years of experience in corporate, non-profit, and education environments. She has been a student of astrology for 20+ years and has been supporting clients with career-focused astrology sessions since 2011. Aubrie is known for being highly inspirational and deeply practical, meeting clients with a spirit of open-mindedness, warmth, and possibility.

Find out more about Aubrie on her website: https://coachingforclarity.net/

Sign up for her July 17th, 2024 Threads workshop here: https://coachingforclarity.net/event/intro-to-threads/

Learn more about Kristine's offerings here: https://kristinebackes.com/work-with-kristine/

Like all of life, plants are the living embodiment of the cosmos. In this episode, spiritual herbalist Angela Segraves and I talk about the transition from winter to spring, and several ways to choose plants to help us work with cosmic weather shifts. 

You can find all of Angela's offerings here: http://www.angelasegraves.com/

More on Angela's Sacred Heart Wisdom retreat in Montana: http://www.angelasegraves.com/sacredheartwisdomretreat

Angela's virtual Soul Expansion retreat: https://mailchi.mp/1c9ca4008739/soul-expansion

Angela's "Heal the Past" podcast: https://anchor.fm/angela-segraves

An astrology reading can help you understand your elemental make-up and other factors to help you choose plant allies: https://kristinebackes.com/soul-guidance-astrology/

The astrologer/herbalist we mentioned is Sajah Popham, of The School of Evolutionary Astrology

Emily Trinkaus and I covered the astrology of the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction of April 20th, 2024, a continuation of sorts of the April 8th 'Great American' Solar Eclipse. With a strong feminine energy in the skies, we agreed there is 'no pushing allowed' right now. Our best advice was to get comfortable with being uncomfortable as we enter a new cycle of unexpected change; and rest!

We explained why Jupiter and Uranus are continuing on with the initiation of the Solar Eclipse;

Why now is not the time to be forcing anything;

And why it's so important to purify your motivation.

Here is the chart of the Jupiter Uranus conjunction: https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Jupiter-Uranus-2024.pdf

And the Sabian symbol graphic we showed: https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Jupiter-Uranus-Sabian-symbol.pdf

Join Kristine to reset your relationship with the cosmos and take the fear out of astrology - live or by recording: https://kristinebackes.com/product/astrology-for-empowerment/

Find Emily's 2 hour recorded class on the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction: https://embodiedaquarian.com/classes/p/jupiter-uranus-2024

You can learn more about Emily and her work: https://embodiedaquarian.com/

Or find Kristine: https://kristinebackes.com/

My guest in this episode is Charlotte Kanyi, who helps women choose their birth experience, and all people heal trauma around their own birth. 'Birth and the first hours immediately after are a potent time for imprinting.' As newborn infants, we are imprinted by our first experience in this world. Whether those imprints help us to live with joy and ease, or 'break the evolutionary expectations' of someone arriving here on Earth depends on how the birth is handled. Charlotte shared some of the ways we might see a difficult birth experience show up in our sense of safety, or relationships, and in every area of our lives. Charlotte uses a variety of healing modalities in her work, including the Compassion Key and Non-Personal Awareness.

You can find out more about Charlotte and download her workbook here: https://www.birthessence.co.uk

Find Kristine at https://kristinebackes.com/

The Goddess Astrologer Jude Hotep joined me for a wide-ranging conversation about the return of Divine Feminine energy; healing the split between Soul and body, and more. Jude and I met as presenters at the Aquarian High Council online summit, and found a common interest in undoing some of the dominator distortions of astrology. One of my favorite quotes from Jude: "Saturn restricts to catalyze", just as contractions are part of the birth process.

Jude Hotep is The Goddess Astrologer, a Professional Astrologer, Master Soul Coach and emotions expert, and host of the Light Goddess Podcast.

Learn more about Jude and Download the Understand Your Astrology FREE Mini-Course Here:http://www.thegoddessastrologer.com

You can also connect with her through her Light Goddess Podcast, as well as on YouTube and other social media channels as The Goddess Astrologer.

Learn more about Kristine's work on kristinebackes.com

The upcoming New Moon in Pisces (March 10, 2024) opens the portal of eclipse season. We are immersed in chaotic motion and yet feeling stuck, a dualism that reflects the two Piscean fish swimming in opposite directions.

Kristine offers some simple practices to find your way in to your true source, and embrace the opposites of the time.

Find out more about Kristine and her offerings on her website: https://kristinebackes.com/

This week's Cancer Solstice and the upcoming Cancer New Moon offer us a powerful time for new creations, and for being our greatest selves. Much of this episode was devoted to conscious embodiment, and the ways in which astrology can help us express our own unique energetic frequencies as embodied humans. According to the traditions of yoga and Ayurveda, 'seating your Self', i.e. embodying your Soul/Higher Self is the way to health and well-being, as well as to freeing ourselves from the bonds of karma. 

The book I mentioned is titled 'Red Hot and Holy', by Sera Beak and I can't recommend it enough for a fun and informative read on an embodied approach to the spiritual path, and the divine feminine. A short, to the point book on spirituality and awakening by an authentic and (in my experience) trustworthy spiritual teacher is Adyashanti's 'The Way of Liberation'. 

Join me for a three-class series on Discovering Karma in the Astrology Chart, beginning July 15th. Learn how to find the energetic 'knots' in your own chart and how to release them. 

Thank you for listening! Become a patron to support the podcast.

What is co-creation, and how is it different than manifesting? When we try to impose our will on life, we are crossing over into control - the shadow expression of true, authentic power. As Saturn moves into the sign of Pisces on March 7th, this is the perfect time to explore how to co-create with, rather than seek control over our lives.

Join Kristine on the Equinox for a first look at Pluto in Aquarius

Recent workshops mentioned in this episode:

Time of Transition 2023

Dreams into Reality: Saturn's move into Pisces

Get on the mailing list to get your free Saturn Archetype e-book and be the first to know about new workshops and offerings

Everything is energy, according to ancient wisdom and modern physics. But what does that mean, and why might it matter? Kristine talks about sensing your own unique energy signature and why it is especially important for empaths and other sensitive people. She also relates it to finding your purpose, or dharma. And, of course, Kristine talks about Saturn, its energy signature, and why it's important to get beyond the stories.

Kristine's class on Saturn in astrology is here: https://kristinebackes.com/product/saturn-friend-or-foe/

The article by medical astrologer Judith Hill referenced in this episode: https://www.judithhillastrology.com/saturn-the-balance-wheel-of-the-planetary-pantheon

Keep up with Kristine's Saturn work and get a copy of her Saturn Archetypes e-book here: https://www.subscribepage.com/getyoursaturn

It was such a pleasure to talk with my dear friend Belinda Noakes, a therapist and coach who works with super-sensitive people - like me! Our journeys have been shockingly parallel, from quitting our corporate careers in 2010, to visiting the same ashram in India (at the same time), and finally meeting in 2014 at Sera Beak's SoulFire retreat. We talked about the true gift of being sensitive; the realization that spiritual seeking is an inside job; and why big breakthroughs might not be as valuable as 'tinybrave' steps. 

Sign up for Belinda's free call for super-sensitive humans: https://www.tinybrave.com

Join Belinda's free Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tinybrave

Find out more about Belinda here: https://belindajoynoakes.com/

Kristine's offerings can be found here: https://kristinebackes.com/

The Full Moon in Libra (April 16 at 2:55 pm Eastern) brings the power of compassion front and center. Venus rules much of the sky from her honored placement in Pisces, with Mars nearby. In this episode, Kristine talks about the potential for sacred union and integration of duality; the power of compassion; and some ways to honor Earth Day. Download a chart of the Libra Full Moon.

The blog post on dreaming the future we want: https://kristinebackes.com/2022/04/13/a-karmic-crossroads/

Book a reading with Kristine: https://kristinebackes.com/soul-guidance-astrology/

Support The Natural Wisdom Podcast by becoming a patron!: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes

Find Kristine on Instagram: @kristinebackes

In a continuation of the previous episode, here I take a deeper look at the ways in which astrologers are the new spiritual teachers, and why we need to be extra careful in using astrology to empower, not victimize people. When we start to understand the pure, neutral energies of the planets, we can more consciously co-create with them - individually and collectively.

This episode was recorded just as the Moon opposed the planet Uranus alongside the Lunar Nodes, a perfect co-creation on breaking out of the restrictions of our stories!

There is still time to join my 3-class series Discover Karma in the Astrology Chart if you want to learn an innovative and unique approach blending Eastern wisdom and Western astrology.

Become a patron to support the podcast.

Want a more in-depth report on the upcoming Capricorn Full Moon? Emily Trinkaus offers her deep wisdom at each lunation, in the gift.

Watch the video version on Spotify!

Yoga philosophy calls injury and illness our 'teachers'. In this bonus episode, I share my experience with a recent injury and the healing power of presence.

Prefer to read rather than listen? https://kristinebackes.com/2021/07/31/injuries-are-my-embodiment-teachers/

If you want to join me live every month, become a patron.

This is the second in a series of bonus meditations for The Natural Wisdom Podcast. The Moon is one of the 'Lights' in astrology, and a primary timekeeper for Nature - including us. In this 20 minute meditation, recorded in the Montana mountains with a wild companion or two, learn to feel the Moon's rhythms in yourself.

Karmic imprint specialist and therapist Belinda Noakes joined me today for a conversation about karmic imprints that keep us stuck in a broken relationship with money, and therefore our bodies and the Earth. Money as a form of love; the 'Atlantis vow'; and the damage of believing the scarcity story were a few of the edges we visited. 

Belinda is a therapist and healer who helps people get unstuck: https://belindajoynoakes.com

Kristine offers astrological consultations that can help identify karmic imprints: https://kristinebackes.com/

Become a patron to join the live sessions and watch the video recordings: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes

Venus, planet of love, beauty, and relating is high in the sky as the Evening Star Lover for just a couple of weeks longer, before becoming invisible again for a reunion with the Sun. Venus will rise again in mid-January, but as the Morning Star Warrior.

This short bonus episode offers a few simple ways of honoring this lovely planet. Think pleasure!!

Want more on Venus? Check out my recorded class.

Become a patron to join live episodes with me and my guest speakers, or just to support the podcast!

As we dive into the heart of the final eclipses of 2022, Kristine and guest Emily Trinkaus share their combined wisdom on working with the cosmic forces of this time. The eclipses happen against a backdrop of other planetary alignments that signal the need to slow down, integrate the changes we have already begun, and prepare for the turning points ahead. This is a time for deep healing of old trauma, and renewal of authentic power.

Emily will be a guest (from 9 am to 10 am Pacific) on the Venus Wisdom retreat coming Saturday, October 22nd: https://www.venuswisdom.com/venus-retreat

There is still time to register for Kristine's free workshop on Saturn Archetypes, also on Saturday October 22nd at 11 am Pacific/Noon Mountain: https://www.subscribepage.com/getyoursaturn 

For this episode of the podcast, my friend and gifted healer Belinda Noakes joined me for a conversation about cultural oppression, the fear matrix, and how to loosen our grip on the stories that keep us contained. We did a little live healing work with me as the guinea pig after a wide ranging conversation about our surprisingly parallel journeys; the alchemical work of transmuting energy; and why our time in corporations was so profoundly hard on our health.

You can find Belinda and get a taste of her work right here: https://belindajoynoakes.com

Get in touch with me through my website with feedback or questions: https://kristinebackes.com

Become a patron to join our live sessions. You can also support the podcast right here on anchor.fm

The explicit rating acknowledges a couple of swear words dropped in our excitement!

We are fast approaching the cross-quarter holyday of Lughnasadh, or Lammas, the mid-point between June Solstice and Autumn Equinox. The Sun's light is beginning to wane here in the northern hemisphere.

There are other significant energy shifts going on, including the completion and rebirth of Venus' 19 month cycle and the shift of the eclipse axis into the signs of Aries and Libra. 

Venus has been retrograde in Leo, sign of the heart, since July 22nd, offering us a period of re-evaluating what we want, what we value, and what matters to us. Venus will be reborn in a new cycle as a morning star in late August. 

At the same time, the shift of the eclipse axis offers new challenges and opportunities for seeing through collective programming, especially around desire and having what we want. I created a whole workshop on this topic, which you can find here: ⁠⁠https://kristinebackes.com/product/lunar-nodes-karma-2023/

In this epic conversation just hours after the Scorpio Lunar Eclipse, Kristine and Emily discussed the purpose of eclipses and the work of clearing old karmic patterns. Power was the main topic, and especially how we reclaim our power through fully occupying our bodies. Kristine shared her epic realization about unconditional receiving, a life-changing concept but one consistent with the ways of nature and the cosmos.

You can find out more about Kristine and her offerings here: https://kristinebackes.com

All of  Emily's offerings, including the classes we mentioned in this episode, are here: https://embodiedaquarian.com

Check out Emily's podcast, the Embodied Aquarian: https://embodiedaquarian.com/podcast

You can support The Natural Wisdom Podcast by becoming a patron: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes

Relationship expert Bethany Nicole and I covered a whole lot of territory in our conversation on the podcast, appropriately recorded just as the Sun moved into Gemini, the sign of multiplicity!

Bethany shared expertise and stories from her work as a relationship astrologer, writer, and all around expert on what's 'behind the scenes' in our interactions with each other, and the world.

We talked about several astrology-related topics:

How astrology is a 'cheat code' for your life;

Your Black Moon Lilith placement shows the parts of you that you exile, as well as hidden gifts;

Why astrocartography (the astrology of location) can help you work with the world instead of against it.

Bethany is just about to publish her book "Secret Energetics of Relationships", and has written an e-book on working with your Black Moon Lilith. You can find her on Instagram as @bethanynicolelove or through her website:

https://www.bethanynicole.com/

Find Kristine or get in touch at https://kristinebackes.com/

How do you know what you know? The Virgo New Moon is tomorrow, September 14th, and Virgo's ruling planet, Mercury, the planet of facts, information and perception is extra strong right now. The New Moon comes at a time when there is a lot of information - human-generated and artificially created - out there, and we need to discern what feels true.

Ready for a reading or some karmic clearing work? Check out Kristine's website to learn more or connect: https://kristinebackes.com/

In this short bonus episode, learn how to get grounded anytime, anywhere. 

More resources for self-care on my website https://kristinebackes.com/

Support the podcast by becoming a patron! 

The United States is on an Underworld journey as Pluto returns to the place in the Zodiac where it was at our birth as a nation. Plus, Venus is carrying Plutonian themes of power as this bright morning star descends toward its own Underworld period. Venus passed through the second 'gate' the weekend of February 26th at her conjunction with the waning crescent Moon. Kristine talks about these overlapping cycles, ways of working with them, and how understanding cosmic cycles supports us to reclaim our natural wisdom. 

Find the chart of the US Pluto return here: https://kristinebackes.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/US-Pluto-Return.pdf

To learn more about Venus or Pluto, check out my classes on the planets, offered on a gift basis: https://kristinebackes.com/classes-events/

Book a reading: https://kristinebackes.as.me/

Become a patron to support the podcast, and help me keep it going!: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes

Founder of Symbolic Studies, artist and graphic designer Mario Garza joined me at the Scorpio Full Moon to explore his unique and profound interpretations of Saturn through the ages. We discussed the distortions and conflicts of our time as a consequence of losing our way, or 'giving away your pole', as well as:

• When our 'sky clock' was not the Zodiac but the constellations revolving around the Pole Star;
• Correspondences between the great ages and the Tarot
• Why returning to your sacred center is the key to reclaiming a new Golden Age
• How being fully present is the key to peace.

Mario Garza is a lifelong artist and graphic designer of twenty five years currently living in the Pacific Northwest. Over the decades Mario developed a serious interest in visual, archetypal and esoteric symbolism. Mario has integrated a number of topics in his research including: The tarot, mythology, astrology, etc. His passion project, Symbolic Studies, was created as an outlet to explore these topics starting with the signs of the zodiac as a loose foundation.

Having recently booked a Tarot reading with Mario, I can highly recommend him for his depth of understanding with the cards, as well as his compassionate presence.

You can find out more about Mario or book a Tarot reading on his website, Symbolic Studies.

Learn more about Kristine's Empowered Astrology workshop, or book a session.

I had an enlightening and timely conversation with Joel Young, creator and custodian of Non-Personal Awareness, as we close out the 2023 eclipse season with a volatile combination of energies. Mars, planet of action and assertion faces off with unpredictable change-maker Uranus on November 11th, and their intense relationship continues through the Scorpio New Moon on Monday, November 13th.
Scorpio is an intensely emotional sign, and deep fear is one way of experiencing Scorpio themes of loss and renewal. In this episode, Joel shared his perspective on how we can shift our relationship with fear and other experiences that cause us suffering through the Non-Personal Awareness process.

Get Joel's free download of the NPA process

Learn more about Joel's Fear Dissolver workshop

For healers, coaches, therapists - check out the NPA Mastery course (and join me in it in 2024!)

In this episode, take a tour of the planets and how they can show up in our felt experience. Feeling blue? Perhaps the Moon is in Pisces. Anxious? Mercury and/or Uranus might be activated. When we pay attention to astrology and attune to the planets, our sensations and emotions become part of our understanding of how the planets are operating in our lives from moment to moment.

Join Kristine in her class on the planet Uranus on February 23rd, live online or by recording: https://kristinebackes.com/classes-events/

Book a reading to learn more about your personal planetary makeup and current opportunities to cooperate with the cosmos: https://kristinebackes.com/soul-guidance-astrology/

Support the podcast on anchor.fm or become a patron to join the live episodes: https://www.patreon.com/kristinebackes

Thank you for listening!