In this engaging conversation, Christine Sine interviews Rev. Danae Ashley, an Episcopal priest and psychotherapist, exploring her journey of faith, the significance of liturgy, and the role of rituals in therapy, particularly in the context of fertility struggles and liminal times. Rev. Ashley shares her unique perspective on how liturgy shapes personal faith and community, and how rituals can help individuals navigate complex emotional experiences. In this conversation, Rev. Danae Ashley shares her insights on healing through personal rituals, the importance of community engagement, and the significance of Hildegard von Bingen’s legacy. The discussion explores how rituals can help individuals navigate life’s transitions and the transformative experience of pilgrimage. Rev. Ashley also delves into her newfound purpose in connecting Hildegard’s teachings with psychotherapy, emphasizing the intertwining of spirituality and mental health.
Takeaways
- Rev. Danae Ashley emphasizes the importance of community in spiritual journeys.
- Liturgy is a powerful tool for shaping personal faith and identity.
- Rituals provide a framework for understanding and processing life’s transitions.
- Art and creativity play a vital role in healing and therapy.
- Rev. Ashley’s journey reflects a deep connection to her faith and community.
- Understanding the history and meaning of liturgy enhances spiritual practice.
- Rituals in therapy can create a safe space for exploring grief and loss.
- Rituals help mediate big feelings in life.
- Pilgrimages can lead to unexpected discoveries.
- The teachings of Hildegard von Bingen, a polymath and healer, can inform psychotherapy.
- Understanding Hildegard deepens our connection to nature.
- The intersection of spirituality and mental health is vital.
The Rev. Danáe Ashley is an Episcopal priest and licensed marriage and family therapist who has ministered with parishes in North Carolina, New York, Minnesota, and the Seattle area and is a psychotherapist at Soul Spa Seattle, LLC. Danáe uses art, music, drama, poetry, and movement in counseling, spiritual direction, and creation of ritual. She has written for a variety of publications, as well as being a contributor to podcasts, books, and producing a play about fertility struggle. Her latest adventure has been on pilgrimage with St. Hildegard von Bingen: speaking and writing about Hildegard, viriditas, and psychotherapy. She is working on her forthcoming book about these subjects. Danae’s favorite pastimes include reading, traveling with her husband, making sure their rescue dog Cooper is living his best life, dancing with wild abandon to Celtic music, and serious karaoke.
Learn more about Rev. Ashley’s work at soulspaseattle.com.
Website: https://www.soulspaseattle.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/soulspaseattle
IG: @soulspaseattle
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