Embody Your Inner Goddess: A Guided Journey to Radical Wellness

Introduction:

In a recent podcast episode, I welcomed Lauren to share the transformative bits and pieces of her life story as outlined in her book, "Embody Your Inner Goddess." Lauren, raised in an evangelical Christian family and considered academically gifted, reveals her journey from a childhood of being the 'good girl' to experiencing burnout and a decade of self-harm. Gratefully, the last decade has been filled with love, dharma embodiment, motherhood, and adventure. In this blog post, we'll explore the key themes and insights from Lauren's podcast conversation, delving into her book's guiding principles for radical wholeness.

The Good Girl Image:

Lauren acknowledges the societal programming that often compels individuals, especially women, to conform to certain expectations. Despite differing religious backgrounds, both Lauren and I, resonate with the pressure to fit into societal boxes. Lauren emphasizes the restrictive nature of conforming and how it impedes self-expression and exploration. She particularly highlights the challenge of rediscovering oneself later in life, a journey many can relate to.

The Evolution of Faith:

Raised in an evangelical Christian family, Lauren underwent a significant transformation in her beliefs during her teenage years. Questioning what she perceived as hypocrisy, she also battled a severe eating disorder. This challenging period became a blessing in disguise, leading her to therapy and yoga, both of which played pivotal roles in her healing journey. Lauren's spirituality evolved into a more open, non-dogmatic perspective, centered around yoga and the exploration of the sacred feminine.

Yoga as a Healing Practice:

Yoga enters Lauren's life during a stay in the hospital for her eating disorder. Initially expecting a typical stretching session, she discovers a profound practice that extends beyond physical movements. Yoga becomes a cornerstone of her healing journey, offering a space for self-reflection and connection. As Lauren later becomes a yoga teacher, she emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to well-being, acknowledging the mind-body connection.

The Inspiration Behind the Book:

Lauren's book, "Embody Your Inner Goddess," unfolds as a teaching memoir, weaving personal stories with transformative teachings. The inspiration for the book strikes during a walk with her one-year-old daughter. Despite life's challenges, including her husband's major surgery and business recovery post-pandemic, Lauren feels a compelling urge to share her insights. The book, structured as a seven-week guided journey through the chakra system, aims to provide readers with an interactive and transformative experience.

Navigating Motherhood and Self-Love:

I reflect on my journey into motherhood and how it intersected with my yoga practice. Lauren shares that her book addresses the challenges of parenting and self-love, emphasizing the importance of re-parenting oneself. Motherhood becomes a parallel journey, requiring dedication and a commitment to something greater than oneself. Lauren hopes her book can inspire individuals to show up for themselves, recognizing their worthiness.

Words of Wisdom:

Lauren's key advice centers on reconnecting with the body. In a society that often emphasizes perfection or detachment from the body, Lauren encourages individuals to view the body as a gateway to intuition and the soul. Accessing higher wisdom involves being present and connected with the body, moving away from constant mental chatter. The book's initial focus on the root chakra underscores the significance of grounding oneself in the body before exploring higher realms of consciousness.

Conclusion:

Lauren's podcast conversation and her book provide a roadmap for individuals seeking radical wholeness. By embracing the body, nurturing self-love, and navigating the transformative power of practices like yoga, Lauren's journey serves as an inspiration for those on a path of self-discovery and empowerment. "Embody Your Inner Goddess" offers a practical and accessible guide, inviting readers to dedicate small, daily moments to their well-being and authentic self-expression. In a world saturated with external expectations, Lauren's message resonates as a beacon of self-acceptance and empowerment.