The Ode To Joy Podcast

Have you ever witnessed the transformative magic of movement, or felt the intricate connection between your creative spirit and the ancient practice of yoga? Sondra Loring, our esteemed guest, embodies this synergy as a queer witch, interdisciplinary artist, and the Director of Sadhana Center for Yoga and Meditation. Her life's work weaves a stunning narrative that connects the fluidity of dance with the grounding practice of meditation, offering a revitalizing perspective on trauma-informed yoga through her impactful program, Moving Potential. This episode is an intimate exploration of the threads that bind yoga, creativity, and the joys of living a mindful life. Sondra's candid recollections—from her early days as a ballet dancer to a beacon of hope for those dealing with the repercussions of incarceration and addiction—paint a vivid picture of a journey rich with learning and humility. Her stories serve as a guide, revealing how we too can integrate movement and meditation into our daily rituals, fostering spaces where sorrow is met with gratitude and personal growth is achieved through the mentorship of brilliant minds from diverse disciplines. As we bid adieu to Sondra, we find ourselves wrapped in the warmth of community and self-care, embracing the simple pleasures of vibrant attire, morning candle rituals, and the comfort of our shared human experiences. It's a heartfelt reminder of the resilience found in the fabric of our collective narratives and the beauty that arises when we honor our individuality within the tapestry of life. Stay with us as we continue to bring forward voices that resonate with the soul's longing for connection, creativity, and, of course, a dash of joy. Get in touch with Sondra: Visit Sadhana Center for Yoga and Meditation Moving Potential Follow on IG: @sadhanacenter Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

Have you ever felt the stirrings of an untapped creativity, a wild muse whispering secrets of transformation and connection? Brittney Bliss, Asheville's own somatic intimacy coach and wilderness witch, joins us to weave tales of awakening this inner magic. From the whispers of childhood to the roar of an authentic life, Brittney's insights into nurturing the magic within offer a roadmap for those ready to embark on a journey of profound self-discovery. As we wander through the forest of our psyche, Brittney illuminates the synergy between somatic intimacy coaching and wilderness, and how these elements can harmonize to foster growth and healing. By tapping into the wellspring of sexual energy as a creative force, we discuss strategies to integrate our desires and passions, from the playful inner child to the fiery rebellion within. Each chapter of our conversation is a step deeper into understanding how embracing our multifaceted selves leads to true enrichment of our lives and relationships. Ending on a practical note, we take to heart the art of self-expression and facing our inner critic. Brittney offers a glimpse into the safe spaces she creates for individuals to bloom, sharing her wisdom on balancing the thrill of intense exploration with the grounding need for safety. Her story is a call to those ready to dance with their muse, a summons to align with joy, creativity, and the deep connections that await in Brittney's world of transformational coaching and international retreats. Join us for an episode that's more than just talk—it's an invitation to live a life enchanted. Work with Brittney: https://brittneybliss.com/ Instant download to a free sex magic practice + FREE access to Brittney's upcoming event on Jan 11th (New Moon / New Year Sex Magic Ritual) Follow Brittney: @brittney.bliss Follow Elena: @elenabox Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

Have you ever wondered if the stars could be your guide through life's tumultuous journey? Evolutionary astrologer Ben Kibby joins us to shed light on how combining astrology with aromatherapy and shamanic practices can illuminate the path to personal mythology and joy. Our conversation veers into the unexpected as we draw parallels between celestial movements and the peculiar technical difficulties, as if Mars itself had a quirky sense of humor about our recording schedule! From the wrestling mat to the enlightening tenets of Buddhism, Ben's story of identity transformation reveals the powerful shifts that can occur when we step outside societal norms. Ben and I engage in a heartfelt discussion about those moments in life that force us to confront who we are and who we want to become. As we converse about the liberating journey from an athlete in a world of toxic masculinity to someone more attuned to their spiritual awakening, it becomes clear that our greatest defeats may set the stage for our most profound growth. We wrap up our session pondering soul contracts, the comfort found in the cosmos during times of grief, and how astrology can act as a navigational tool at life's myriad crossroads. Whether you're new to astrology or seeking deeper understanding of your own birth chart, this episode promises to offer a fresh perspective on the cosmic dance between fate and free will. So, join us for an exploration of the skies and the self, and let's discover together how the heavens might reflect our most human experiences. Work with Ben: https://www.the-alchemical-soul.com/ Follow Ben: @the_alchemical_soul Resources: https://www.astro.com/horoscope “You Were Born For This” by Chani Nicholas Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

Ever felt like an inner critic is stifling your creativity? Want to unlock your inner genius and find joy in the process? Tag along with us as we welcome visionary artist, Jake Kobrin, whose insights on the Ode to Joy Podcast are going to turn your world around. Discover how a unique kambo ceremony in Bali helped Jake purge emotional toxins and faced his grief head-on, reinforcing the power of release and healing in our journey to joy. In this riveting conversation, we'll also delve into the idea of the muse's role in sparking creativity, and how discipline and surrendering intertwine in artistry. Uncover the secrets of how children effortlessly tap into their innate genius, a journey that might just reignite your own creative spirit. As we wrap up, allow Jake's touching account of his teenage years and his struggle with his inner critic to inspire you. Learn strategies to overcome your internal barriers and let your creativity flow. This episode will be a treat for anyone yearning to embrace joy, nurture their muse, and unleash their artistic side. Don't miss out! Follow Jake: @_.kobrin._ Learn with Jake: https://jakekobrinartcourses.thinkific.com/ Visit Jake's website: jakekobrin.com Follow Elena: @elenabox Visit Elena's website: elenabox.com Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

Do you ever feel disconnected, 'othered', or not quite fitting into the societal norms? We've all been there. In fact, our guest today, the incredible Chelsea Camin, a past life witch, once felt the same. She took us on an incredible journey of spiritual awakening, self-discovery, and authenticity, inspiring us with her courage to break free from an oppressive education system and the societal norms that held her back from realizing her true potential. Chelsea deftly guided us to explore the depths of our inner genius and the witch wound, navigating the complex world of imposter syndrome. She shed light on the significance of honing our unique gifts, embracing authenticity, and finding the right community. With her valuable insights into overcoming fears and fostering self-acceptance, Chelsea helped us better understand the power we all hold within ourselves and how we can utilize it to transform our lives. Lastly, we delved into the intriguing world of past life work and its integration into daily life, with Chelsea sharing her transformative experiences with candle magic. We also discussed practical ways to protect our spiritual wellbeing in the online space and the importance of setting boundaries. Wrapping up our journey, Chelsea reflected on the intricacies of being a healer and the desire to be 'normal.' In an episode filled with wisdom and inspiration, Chelsea's story is a brilliant reminder of the joy that comes from embracing our true selves. Don't miss out on this empowering conversation! Connect with Chelsea: https://www.thepastlifewitch.com/ Follow on IG @thepastlifewitch Follow Elena @elenabox Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

What if you could reach across the threshold of the physical world and connect with the spirit realm? That's the intriguing journey we embark on in our latest conversation with Claudia Kubata, the Death Faerie herself, where we explore the fascinating realms of spirituality, mediumship, and communication with spirits. We tackle the uncomfortable, yet essential aspects of our roles as death doulas and shed light on the hope, love, and excitement we find in this unique interaction with the deceased. In the episode, Claudia takes us through her personal journey of embracing mediumship, the encounters she's had with spirits, and the process of validating the authenticity of these experiences. Delving into the often misunderstood concept of modern-day witchcraft, we debunk the stigma associated with it and stress the importance of authenticity in this realm. Furthermore, we traverse the intriguing subject of spirits attaching themselves to humans and discuss ways to set protective boundaries. Our chat doesn't stop there. We share insights on how to open oneself up to spirit communication, discussing various psychic senses and how they manifest in interactions with spirits, encouraging listeners to explore spirit communication in their own unique ways. Claudia also gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming workbook, loaded with spirit play activities, to tap into psychic abilities with a sense of wonder and fun. Join us on this spiritually uplifting journey and discover how you can connect with the other side. About Claudia: Meet Claudia, known as The Death Faerie, your guide to the Other Side. Claudia has been a Psychic Medium all her life, forging connections with Spirits since as far back as she can remember. Her journey into understanding and harnessing this gift began in the early 2000s when she delved into energy work and honed her Psychic abilities. What sets Claudia apart is her ability to Trance Channel and her training as an Evidential Medium. When she connects with the Spirit realm, she becomes a conduit for their energy, creating sessions that often feel like a healing embrace. Her mission? To assist others in connecting with Spirit, nurturing and fortifying their own Psychic capabilities. Claudia is not only a seasoned Psychic Medium but also a trained Death Doula affiliated with Going with Grace, proudly contributing to the Death Positive Movement. Embracing the inevitability of mortality, Claudia encourages everyone to live their best lives while planning for a peaceful transition. After all, as she says, "Eventually, we will all die. So let's live our best life and plan for a good death." Connect with Claudia: Book a session: www.thedeathfaerie.com Follow her on Instagram @thedeathfaerie Elena's free e-book -- Elements of an Ancestor Altar Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

Do you ever stop to consider the powerful energy that flows from your body and its intricate cycles? Today, we invite you to join us on a transformative journey of discovery with Naema Pierce, a pelvic specialist and women's sex coach. This enlightening conversation will have you contemplating your connection to your body, your femininity, and your innate creativity like never before. Naema's life-altering experiences in the heart of Peru sparked a spiritual awakening, reconnecting her to the earth and igniting her mission to assist others in honoring their menstrual cycles and reclaiming their sexuality. Let's shatter the shackles of a patriarchal society together, and embrace the freedoms found in recognizing and celebrating our cycles. From discussing the potency of the menstrual cycle to exploring sacred femininity through bodywork, Naema's insights foster a profound understanding of womanhood and our bodies. We delve into the eye-opening topics of intimacy, pelvic health, and the transformative power of self-pleasure practices. Naema shares her personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with our bodies and our sexuality, and the liberation that can unravel from opening the floodgates of grief. Encouraging us to confidently reclaim our sexuality, and utilize our unique stories for healing and connection, Naema introduces us to the exhilarating world of self-connection through sexuality. It's time to unearth our inner muse and celebrate the vibrant energy within us. Connect with Naema: FREE Pussy Love Liberation Practice: https://bit.ly/Free-Pussy-Love-Practice FREE Art of Sexual Surrender Practice: https://marvelous-experimenter-9517.ck.page/4aa0e46b1c Website: https://www.naemapierce.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCywaANEFlCtTdE2QwWnC1FA IG: https://www.instagram.com/naemapierce/ About Naema: Naema is a pelvic specialist and women’s sex coach - helping women & pussy owners overcome pain, shame and disconnection in their pussy & sexuality so they can experience epic sex, erotic confidence and a thriving relationship to their pussy and selves. She helps women unlock this through her VAPPA™ method - an integrative approach to sexual liberation and hands on pelvic care. She is a powerful coach, working online with clients globally as well as in person in her thriving bodywork practice in Asheville, NC where she offers somatic pelvic healing sessions to women & pussy owners who are ready to get to the root of their disconnect and discover deep sexual liberation & healing. Naema is a total science nerd, esoterically deep, ridiculously playful, and is wildly passionate about helping you to live your most liberated and pleasurable life possible. Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

Have you ever wondered about the profound impact a simple smile can have on someone's life? Join us on a fascinating journey with Australian author, podcast host, and human rights lawyer, Ezzie Spencer. We start with understanding how she's crafted her existence around her purpose, which has now become her "normal". Ezzie's life has been a rollercoaster of experiences, from her roots in Australia to her life in New York and Los Angeles, and she has a plethora of insights to share. A pivotal moment in Ezzie's life was her spiritual awakening in 2011. Our conversation delves into the internal struggle she experienced while trying to make sense of her new reality and the path that led to her work with the moon. We also discuss the significance of mentors and teachers in life, and how they can help us navigate our way towards a sense of inner peace. Ezzie shares her journey from working within established systems to focusing on the individual, aided by the moon cycle. Ezzie doesn't shy away from discussing the more personal aspects of her journey, including her experiences with self-love and self-worth. She shares the invaluable lessons she learned from a teacher about compassion and forgiveness, which she believes are essential for cultivating self-love. She also talks about an unconscious vow she made to stay single and how she used meditation to uncover and overcome this blockage in her life. Ezzie highlights the importance of self-compassion, self-forgiveness, and gratitude in managing tough emotions, which are steps towards cultivating a stronger sense of self-love. This episode promises to leave you with profound insights about life, purpose, and the power of self-love. Work with Ezzie: https://www.ezziespencer.com/ IG @ezziespencer Re.love Podcast Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

In this powerful episode, host Elena Box invites Reproductive Wellness Coach, Amanda Star Kingsley, to share her inspiring journey of finding her muse in helping women heal after abortion. Amanda, a Certified Feminist Life Coach and Doula, sheds light on her personal experience and the emotional complexities surrounding life after abortion. As the host of the Speaking Light Into Abortion podcast and author of the transformative book 'What I Wish: 100 love notes to help you survive, come alive, and thrive after abortion,' Amanda's mission is to facilitate a wider conversation about the unspoken aspects of this journey. Join Elena and Amanda as they dive deep into the importance of embracing all emotions after abortion and empowering women to live the life they choose. This episode will leave you feeling empowered and remind you that healing and honoring your decisions is a beautiful part of your unique story. Work with Amanda: IG @ amandastarkingsley https://www.amandastarkingsley.com/ Phone Wall Paper for Empowered Living Amanda Kingsley is a Certified Feminist Life Coach and Doula. She is the host of the Speaking Light Into Abortion podcast. And the Author of ‘What I Wish: 100 love notes to help you survive, come alive, and thrive after abortion.’ After her own unanticipated abortion as a mother of three, she recognized the need for a wider conversation around the complex emotional landscape of life after abortion. She reminds her audience that it’s okay to feel all the feelings after abortion, and that we can honor our decisions by living the life we made our choice for. You can learn more and connect with her at www.amandastarkingsley.com Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

In this captivating episode, we delve into the transformative world of love embodiment coaching, international retreat hosting, and vibe curation with the incredible Lexy Davis. Join us as Lexy shares her fascinating journey and reveals the profound impact that travel has had on her internal muse. Through thought-provoking insights and personal anecdotes, Lexy guides us on a mesmerizing exploration of how embracing different cultures, immersing in new landscapes, and connecting with diverse souls have nourished her creative spirit. Discover the power of wanderlust as Lexy unveils the secrets of how travel ignites her passion, fuels her inspiration, and allows her to curate the most vibrant vibes imaginable. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary voyage and unlock the hidden treasures that await when we embrace the world as our muse. Follow Lexy on IG @alivetoenjoy Lexy's list of Embodied Women: - @connie_chapman - @iamvictoriawashington - @Shaneymarie_enchantress - @Simaya.Priya -@ thepleasureplus - @rosie.rees - @sensualsomatic - @theportiabrown - @che.che.luna - @the vaginablog - @kama.lab -@humblewildwellness -@the.meg.o Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

In this captivating episode, our host, Elena Box, a remarkable Shamanic Death Doula and Comedienne, shares an intimate conversation with her ex-girlfriend, Gina Bloemers, about her transformative journey of nourishing her inner muse. Together, they delve into the depths of abandonment, grief, and heartbreak, exploring how these seemingly dark experiences have played a profound role in shaping her creative spirit. As Elena opens up about her personal encounters with abandonment, grief, and heartbreak, listeners are invited into a world of vulnerability and resilience. With poignant anecdotes and raw honesty, she reveals how these challenging moments acted as catalysts for her creative growth, rather than roadblocks. Drawing upon her shamanic practices and comedic talents, our host intricately weaves together the threads of her story, highlighting the ways in which she transformed her pain into a source of inspiration. Through the power of laughter and ritual, she found solace and healing, allowing her inner muse to emerge from the depths of despair. Guided by her ex-girlfriend's insightful questions, Elena offers practical advice and meaningful reflections on embracing the creative potential within even the most heart-wrenching experiences. Listeners will discover how to navigate their own journeys of abandonment, grief, and heartbreak, understanding that these profound emotions can serve as fuel for artistic expression and personal growth. Tackling the complexities of the human experience with wit and wisdom, this episode will leave listeners inspired and empowered to embrace their own transformative journeys. Join us as we delve into the depths of the soul, exploring how nourishing the inner muse can arise from the most unexpected places. FOLLOW Gina on IG: @shapeshift_ FOLLOW Elena on IG: @elenabox Song by Regina Spektor "On the Radio" Lyrics : You laugh until you cry, you cry until you laugh Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

Ceremonial Pregnancy Release offers an ancient remembrance for how women can move through one of the most powerful Initiation Processes we may experience in our lifetimes. How can we support ourselves and other women to release pregnancy in a sacred, centered, and intentional way? Natasha Pachalove is a Puerto Rico based Energy Worker, Feminine Wellness Mentor, and Ritual Dancer who supports people coming home to their soul and purpose. She is a full-spectrum doula who has led Red Tent retreats for seven years. In this episode Elena and Natasha discuss: Work with Natasha: Follow on IG @natashapachalove Online ceremony Honoring Our Unborn Children February 19th 2-4pm EST Connect deeper via https://www.thesacredremembrance.com/ Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

Nevine Michaan joins The Ode to Joy Podcast to talk about Yoga's place in processing grief and tuning our bodily instrument to come into greater Joy. Nevine and Elena discuss the following: About Nevine: "Born in Egypt in 1954, Nevine moved to New York at the age of three. In her early 20’s, while studying history and comparative religion at Vassar College, she discovered meditation. She understood that there is a function, a formality and a fit to the universe and that yoga is a tool, a technique – a practice with repetition which gives us the opportunity to participate in life with intelligence and joy. Nevine started a daily practice in NYC with renowned yoga instructor Allan Bateman in the 1970s and became fully immersed in what would become her life’s work. She began teaching Yoga in 1980, and founded the Katonah Yoga Center in Katonah, New York in 1986." Learn with Nevine Katonah Yoga The Magic Square Katonah Yoga Calendar Find a local Kotonah Teacher Follow on IG @katonahyogacenter Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

What happens when two death doulas get chatting? Pure magic! Adriana Michelle, a.k.a The Death Alchemist, is a death doula, Transition & Rebirth Doula, and Storyteller. Elena and Adriana discuss how to create Power Places to move through grief. Adriana was born in San Diego, raised in Mexico, and is currently living in New Orleans where she offers grief walking, transition readings, and monthly online grief meetings. Elena and Adriana discuss: Adriana's top Grief film picks: Note from Adriana on creating a Power Place: "Something as simple as lighting a candle, putting on music, and getting into the shower or bath is SOOOO powerful (lots of downloads come through for me in there) I find it very healing to write out some intentions or just free write/journal. Mirror work. Setting up an altar is the obvious choice because it is something that is easily accessible and can be set up in a closet (hidden away for privacy if you need to). ALSO JUST CRY. Whatever emotion you are feeling, let that lead you. Life is a ceremony. Everything is a ritual. Sit with it. Digest it." Work with Adriana: Follow on IG @thedeathalchemist https://www.amoryalquimia.com/ Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

David Rotherham joins us from Australia, to share the story of his son Angus who tragically passed while swimming during his morning movement practice at Flat Rock. David and Elena discuss: David and Elena met while studying with the master plant teacher, Ayahuasca, with the Shipibo tribe in Peru in 2015. Work with David: https://shamanicwisdom.com.au/ Tribute to Angus Anguri Earthkeeper Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

Olivia Falcon joins us from Greenpoint, Brooklyn to talk about how we can navigate the use of Vices during a grieving process. Olivia is a yoga teacher and works closely with Katonah Yoga founder, Nevine Michaan. We discuss how we can balance nourishing ourselves, and partake in our comforting Vices while healing from heartbreak and grief. If you are struggling with substance abuse, this episode may not be for you, see notes below for resources to find support. Reminder -- I am not a mental health professional and am merely sharing my personal experience. Topics we cover: Follow Olivia on IG at @oliviamfalcon Support Hotline Resources: https://addictionresource.com/addiction-and-rehab-hotlines/ 1-888-506-06991-800-969-6642Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

This 10-minute meditation begins with a full body relaxation scan and then ends with a powerful forgiveness mantra. Use the mantra daily for extra OOMPH. Repeat as many times as years you've been on this earth morning and night. Repeat every day for the same amount of years as you've been on your earth walk. This mantra affirmation was taught to me by Balinese Healer, Agus Sihman on the summer solstice the year my father died and helped me hugely during my time of grief. Enjoy, babe <3 Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

Tom Fox joins us from NYC where he is currently a Chaplain with the Huntington's Disease Unit Tom had a spiritual awakening after following the 12-step program, leading to a life of service. After a 30-year finance career on Wall Street, Tom began working in a hospice where he gained insight into how to hold space for a dying person. Coming from a turbulent upbringing with an alcoholic father, he navigated years of anger and resentment to one day be led through an unconventional gravesite posthumous forgiveness ritual. His story is not to be missed! In this episode we discuss: Get in touch with Tom via e-mail at Nortonfox55@gmail.com Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

Spark your inner Creative Fire by stoking the sacral chakra through breath and ignited intention. "Wherever you go, there you are." Who would you be if you remembered you have all the inner tools you need at all times? What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail? Bolster your inner reserves to stand firm, tall, and resolute in your mission as you continue your earth walk, dear one. I love you, fellow light traveler. Elena Box xo Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox

As spiritual beings, what essential tools do we need to travel with when life's uncharted territory presents itself to us? When we find ourselves in new places, either physically or emotionally, we need to remain grounded and centered. How can we orient ourselves in the storm's calm eye? Eva Giorgi joins us from Upstate New York today to share the tools she's honed while living in the great outdoors. She created her own traveler's mythology with herbs, essential oils, maps, and the ritual of a hot cup of coffee on a brisk morning. Elena and Eva discuss: Eva Giorgi @evatwine Offers Tarot readings online and teaches Katonah Yoga at Viale Yoga in Bedford Hills, NY Evatwine.com Join The Spiral women's circle led by Morgan Rose @morganrose.rituals Support the Show. Buy your copy of Elena's book "Grieve Outside the Box" Follow on IG @elenabox