Explore every episode of the podcast Grounded Spirits

What if the detour was the destination all along?

This week in L.A. unfolded nothing like I planned and that turned out to be the gift.

From surprise gifts to surprise visitors to river revelations, birthday parties, and a powerful performance at a Hawaiian festival, each day showed me something about surrender, synchronicity, and trust.

In this episode, I share a week of intuitive detours — the kind that reveal who you’re becoming when you stop clinging to who you thought you had to be.

You’ll hear about:
✨ following signs and symbols
🌊 letting nature guide your healing
🎉 embracing joy, connection, and softness
🛶 reimagining your city, your path, your pace

If you've ever felt frustrated when life doesn’t go your way, this one’s for you.

The flow is the way.

✨ Want the journal prompts, affirmations, episode links, and more?
Head to https://theornelian.com/2025/07/23/how-to-flow-and-grow-through-lifes-detours/ to explore everything mentioned in this episode

What if healing isn’t something we do alone but something we do together through connection?

In this heart-centered episode of Grounded Spirits, we explore connection as the medicine for a fragmented world.

We move through the many layers of connection:
🌀 to Self — through emotion, shadow, and truth
🌍 to Society — through justice, compassion, and belonging
🌿 to Nature — through rhythm, reverence, and reciprocity
✨ to Divinity — through surrender, spirit, and sacredness
🧬 to Family & Lineage — through memory, meaning, and repair
🤝 to The Other — through presence, empathy, and community

Together, we ask: What breaks our connection and what rebuilds it?

This is a call to reweave the web—one thread of care, courage, and consciousness at a time.

🔗 Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/ZL-pCM5h548

🌱 Explore episode resources + blog: https://theornelian.com/2025/07/16/how-to-heal-in-a-broken-world/

What if every moment of your week was a chance to become one with nature?

In this special blog-style video episode, I take you on a grounded yet magical journey through a full week of living in rhythm with the Earth and the cosmos. From touching grass to dancing with crows, from honoring the Fourth of July to honoring your Venus sign, this is a living example of what it means to embody the Grounded Spirits way.

🗓️ This week includes:

• How I communicate with plants, especially cannabis, and why I'm on an intermittent T-break

• My tips on connecting with grass, trees, and the shifting water network of LA

• A work day at the Huntington Gardens + the spiritual meaning of crows

• Why sewing a hula skirt (or any dance) connects us to the land

• Fireworks and the human condition on the 4th of July

• How to use your dreams to uncover your true path

• A peek inside my personal garden, my style, and even my bag

Plus:✨ A Dream Oracle card pull📚 Book + product recs for lung health, dreaming, and dreaming awake🎥 Behind-the-scenes videos, blog articles, and more

If you’ve been wondering how to walk your spiritual path while staying rooted in the everyday, this one’s for you.

🔗 Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/kk1SEPhXNFw
🌱 Explore episode resources + blog: https://theornelian.com/2025/07/09/how-to-connect-with-nature/

Let your week be your ritual.

A special vlog-style journey through a week in my life

What if making your dreams come true wasn’t about chasing—but about enjoying the present moment?

In this new kind of Grounded Spirits episode, I invite you into a week of my life as I live, feel, and create in real-time. This vlog-style reflection begins in my cozy workspace, where I share thoughts on how comfort supports clarity. From there, I head to the Los Angeles River and practice deep presence with the trees, the grass, and the quiet rhythm of life around me.

I explore not-doing, a concept from Carlos Castaneda’s work, and how it teaches us to shift dream patterns, loosen the grip of routine, and rewrite our internal programming. Along the way, I meet small creatures, attend a grounding yoga class, and introduce Plant a Dream—a new space on the website where you can root your dreams into community soil.

Later in the week, I visit the ocean, reflect on its healing power, and read from round one of my book Believe: A Journey Into Yourself. I dance with Moana (Hawaiian for “ocean”), see dolphins and sea lions, and remember just how magical life can be when we’re paying attention.

One of my long-held dreams comes true as I perform a hula dance at the Santa Monica Pier. I speak on the importance of nurturing our inner child—and each other’s—and how community really is the village we all need. The episode closes with a stop at a local art store and a sneak peek of my soon-to-launch website, five years in the making.

This episode is a love letter to dreaming with your eyes open, creating with your heart, and living with presence.

✨ Come see what unfolds when you water your dreams a little each day.

For all the resources + plus more: https://theornelian.com/2025/07/02/how-to-make-your-dreams-come-true/

In this episode of Grounded Spirits, we explore how to embody the Magician archetype in everyday life. The Magician is the bridge between spirit and form—between dreaming and gardening. I’ll guide you through the symbolism of the Magician card, what it means to channel your willpower with intention, and how to tap into your unique gifts using the tools already within reach. We’ll talk about Carlos Castaneda's work, along with, grounded manifestation, aligned action, and the magic of believing in your own power without bypassing reality. Whether you’re just beginning your spiritual path or deep in your practice, this episode offers insight on how to become the active co-creator of your dreams.

What does it really mean to take a leap of faith — and how can we do it without losing ourselves?

In this episode, I reflect on the importance of values and inner clarity when stepping outside of our comfort zones.

I share a personal story of leaping into the ocean alone and how trusting myself (and more importantly the universe/God) made all the difference.

Tune in for a grounded take on navigating uncertainty with both spirit and intention.

In this episode of Grounded Spirits, we explore the powerful lessons of The Fool card from the Tarot’s Major Arcana, diving deep into the art of trust—trusting God, trusting the universe, and trusting yourself. The Fool represents new beginnings, infinite potential, and the courage to leap into the unknown, but how do we actually cultivate that kind of trust in our daily lives?

Join me as we unpack the spiritual wisdom behind The Fool's journey, examining what it means to release control, embrace faith, and navigate life’s uncertainty with an open heart. Whether you’re starting a new chapter or simply seeking a deeper connection with the divine, this episode will guide you in understanding how trust can transform your life.

Learn how to harness The Fool’s energy to embrace the unknown, tap into your inner strength, and walk confidently into your future.

Through Jung archetypes, we can understand The Fool’s journey as not just a leap into the unknown, but as a reflection of our own process of individuation, growth, and the balance of trusting both the divine (God) and the Self.

• The Fool as the Hero: Much like Jung’s Hero archetype, The Fool embarks on a journey of self-discovery, facing challenges and evolving as they progress. This journey reflects the inner quest for growth, transformation, and self-realization.

• The Fool and the Self: The Fool symbolizes the pure potential of the Self, unbounded by fear or ego. The archetype of the Self represents the unified whole, and The Fool’s role is to navigate toward this unity, trusting both the divine and inner guidance.

• The Shadow: In The Fool’s journey, challenges and obstacles correspond to Jung’s Shadow archetype. Trusting oneself involves acknowledging the darker, unconscious parts of the psyche and integrating them, much like The Fool encounters difficult aspects of life but continues onward in faith.

Here's how to interpret your dreams with the Fool card:

• 
  
• The Fool as a Dream Archetype: In dreams, The Fool could represent new beginnings, potential, and the unknown. This archetype often appears when the dreamer is facing a choice or a significant change, signaling the need to trust the process, embrace uncertainty, and take a leap of faith, much like The Fool does in the Tarot.
• 
  
• Trusting Symbols in Dreams: Dream interpretation involves trusting the symbols that appear, even if they seem nonsensical at first. The Fool encourages a similar trust, reminding us to embrace the wisdom in our dreams, which might be unconventional or illogical, yet offer powerful insights into our inner world.
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• The Journey through the Major Arcana as a Dream Narrative: The Fool’s journey through the Major Arcana parallels the progression of dreams. As we sleep, we navigate through various archetypal figures and scenarios—much like The Fool encounters different stages and characters in the Tarot—each representing deeper elements of our psyche. Interpreting these dreams, like interpreting The Fool’s journey, helps us understand our unconscious desires, fears, and potential for growth.
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• Dreams and Self-Trust: Dreams often push us to confront our inner fears, desires, and conflicts. The Fool’s lesson of trust—trusting oneself and the larger spiritual forces at play—applies to dream interpretation because we must learn to trust the messages from our unconscious mind, even when they challenge our conscious beliefs or comfort zones.
• 
  
• Dreams as Leaps of Faith: Just as The Fool leaps into the unknown with trust in God and the self, dreams are a space where we confront unknown aspects of ourselves. By interpreting dreams, we take a similar leap, trusting that our subconscious is guiding us toward self-awareness and growth, even through abstract or symbolic messages.

In this episode of Grounded Spirits, we dive deep into the interplay of feminine and masculine energies, exploring how feminine energy represents the collective, while masculine energy embodies the individual. Both forces are essential to living a balanced life, but how do we harmonize them within ourselves? Join me as I unpack the significance of each energy, why both are needed, and practical ways to find balance between embracing our connections to the greater whole and honoring our unique individuality.

In this illuminating episode of Grounded Spirits, we delve into the fascinating world of dreams, guided by the profound insights of Carl Jung and Sigmund Freud.

Discover how your dreams serve as a vital connection between the conscious and unconscious mind, and how they work to balance the masculine and feminine energies within you.

We'll explore Jung's concepts of the anima and animus—archetypes that represent the feminine in men and the masculine in women—and Freud's interpretations of the symbolic language of dreams. By understanding these dynamics, you'll gain tools to achieve greater self-awareness and personal harmony.

We’ll also take you behind the scenes to reveal the symbolism behind the Grounded Spirits logo, which embodies the union of these energies, grounding your spiritual journey while encouraging deep exploration of both your inner and outer worlds.

Plus, if you're ready to take your dream exploration to the next level, don’t miss our special promotion of Learn to Dream, our exclusive dream journal designed to help you track, interpret, and learn from your dreams. This journal is your companion in the journey of understanding your dreams' messages and achieving a balanced and grounded spirit.

Tune in to unlock the mysteries of your dreams, balance your inner energies, and connect with the profound truths within you.

Link to the dream journal: https://a.co/d/0RDHkpW

Welcome to a thought-provoking episode of Grounded Spirits, where we explore the inner world and balance our dreams, hopes, and desires with our boundaries, discipline, and truest self.

In this episode, “How to Dream: Learn from the Past,” we dive into the ancient world of dream practices across various civilizations and uncover timeless wisdom that can help you achieve your highest aspirations.

Journey with us as we travel through history to discover how ancient cultures—from the Egyptians and Greeks to the Chinese and Indigenous peoples—understood and utilized dreams.

Learn about their fascinating rituals, interpretations, and the spiritual significance they placed on dreams.

We’ll share how these practices can provide valuable insights for modern dreamers seeking to harness their inner potential while remaining grounded in their reality.

Discover how you can apply their wisdom to your own life, enhance your dream experiences, and gain deeper clarity on your personal journey.

Whether you’re looking to tap into your dreams for inspiration or simply intrigued by the intersection of ancient wisdom and modern self-discovery, this episode offers a rich tapestry of knowledge and guidance.

Tune in to Grounded Spirits and learn how to navigate your dreams with ancient wisdom, staying grounded as you reach for new heights!

Don’t miss out on our recommended dream journal! It’s a fantastic tool to enhance your dream exploration by tracking your dream data, helping you navigate life’s major decisions with greater clarity.

Get it here:

https://www.amazon.com/Learn-Dream-awareness-purposeful-dreamer/dp/B0B6XS8C1G

🌙 Get Ready for an All-New Season of Grounded Spirits! 🌱

We're kicking off a brand new series—and this time, we're diving deep into the world of dreams. ✨

In the first episode, we explore one of the most profound questions:
What is the true purpose of our dreams?

Whether you’re a vivid dreamer or someone just starting to tune in, this episode will guide you in reconnecting with your inner world and uncovering how your dreams can help you live more authentically, intuitively, and aligned with your purpose.

💭 Ready to unlock the messages your dreams are trying to send?

✨ Start your journey with your very own dream journal!
This beautifully designed tool will help you track your dreams, spot patterns, and gain deeper insights with each passing night.

🛒 Buy your dream journal today:
Click here or use this link:
👉 https://www.amazon.com/Learn-Dream-awareness-purposeful-dreamer/dp/B0B6XS8C1G

Let’s dream together—intentionally.

Learn how to not care what people think about you! This is the last Emerald Tablet and the last of The Emerald Tablet series! Let me know your thoughts of the series. Tune in to find out what the next series will be!

Thoth describes his first encounter with God and teaches us how to do the same. I also get into the relationship between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

You’ll never guess what Thoth shares with us this week!! He shares the meaning of life, how to go through an ego death, our connection to earth, the pointlessness of sacrifice/suffering, and secret to immortality! This is definitely not an episode you’ll want to miss.

This is the 12th tablet out of 15. Get ready to learn about the first cause and the first effect, how we can manipulate them today, and another prophecy about the end of time (but this one is most optimistic)!

As always, have a listen for a breakdown of this difficult text to understand how to use this knowledge in your life to allow for ultimate fulfillment.

The Emerald Tablets are known for the phrase "As Above, So Below." This phrase can be interpreted in various ways. Listen to this episode to go over many of them!

How does time work? is a question that many have tried to understand. Thoth the Atlantean is no different. Join me to unlock the key of time as Thoth learned it and wrote in the tenth Emerald Tablet thousands of years ago.

Learn how to unlock the cage that traps your soul in space and time! This is tablet 9 of the emerald tablets written by Thoth the Atlantean

See “Robin” with multiple new perspectives!! Understand why “The Bolter” needed to bolt. Learn what happens when you write what you know in “The Manuscript”. And re- fall in love with your childhood in “Peter”

Understand the sadness behind “I look in People’s Windows,” “The Prophecy,” and the anger/hurt behind “Cassandra. Find out why we all owe Taylor an apology. Join me for all of this and so much more on tonight’s episode!

On this episode, we learn more about the formless and how to set our souls free! We also talk about the lizard people, the hounds of the barrier, the mist, and the eternal battle between darkness and light. Positive vs. negative freedom also gets discussed. Many movies and tv shows get referenced to as well such as: Ghostbusters, Sabrina the Teenaged Witch, Soul, Stepsister from Planet Weird and many more!

On this episode, we get an in-depth look at Taylor’s and Travis’ relationship with the song “so high school.” We learn how to deal with life if “I hate it here” so that we don’t hate it here any longer. And we go over “thanK you aIMee”

Find out why Clara Bow has quotation marks around each verse and chorus but not the bridge. Get ready to get deep and emotional with The Black Dog. Learn how Lavender Haze and imgonnagetyouback are more connected than you think. For all this and more, tune in now! To get more info on how to become a grounded spirits by staying rooted while flying high, follow me @groundedspirits

Tune in for the hidden knowledge that Thoth reveals for us (in this seventh emerald tablet) on how to be true grounded spirits ✨

Get ready to have your mind blown by the inspiration behind The Albatross!! You’ll never see it the same way again (especially if you’re an English major). In track 20 (Chloe or Sam or Sophia or Marcus), we go over Taylor’s, Travis’ and Joe’s birth chart and get deep with the sadness and heart break of this song and its relation to Maroon and Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda (which I first mistake for Bigger than the whole sky and then later fix). We end with “how did it end?” truly understanding that relationships end when there isn’t growth on both sides among other “unforeseen circumstances.” Tune in for this and so much more!!

Get ready to love Taylor’s audacity in these three songs!

Let’s get into the nitty gritty of “Who’s afraid of little old me?”, “I can fix him (no really I can)”, and the heartbreaking “loml”

The battle between good and evil (darkness and light) has been fought since the beginning of time. Thoth, the author of The Emerald Tablets, has the solution. Tune in for the Key of Magic (the solution).

See “Fresh out the slammer” in a new light. Hear the story behind “Florida!!!” and its connection to other songs. Feel “Guilty as sin” on a whole new level!

You’ll never be able to hear “But Daddy I Love Him” the same again after you listen to this episode 🤯🤯🤯

Let’s dive into the world of Taylor Swift and dissect her lyrics for full understanding and how it relates to freedom (or lack there of)!

In this tablet, Thoth gives us some background information on how he learned the wisdom he is sharing with us the children of men.

Join me to learn what the fourth Emerald Tablet is all about! We also discuss the freedom of the soul- what it means and how to achieve it. You won’t want to miss this one. Metaphysical theories get sprinkled throughout.

We are on the third tablet this week on our Emerald Tablets Series. Get ready to learn how to set your soul free!!

Journey with us through the corridors of ancient wisdom as we explore the Halls of Amenti from the Emerald Tablets in our podcast. Unveiling the mysteries of these timeless artifacts, each episode delves into the esoteric teachings and metaphysical truths concealed within. Through insightful discussions and expert analysis, we decipher the cryptic passages and interpret the symbolic imagery, offering listeners a profound understanding of the profound wisdom contained within. Whether you're a seasoned seeker of esoteric knowledge or a curious newcomer, join us on this enlightening exploration of consciousness and existence.

This is the second tablet of the 15 Emerald Tablets.

Embark on a fascinating exploration into the mystical realm of Thoth the Atlantean with our latest episode dedicated to deciphering the First Tablet of the Emerald Tablets. Delve into the ancient lore surrounding this enigmatic figure as we unravel the history of Thoth and his connection to the lost civilization of Atlantis. Join us as we delve deep into the wisdom imparted in the First Tablet, uncovering the timeless truths and esoteric knowledge it holds. From the origins of civilization to the secrets of cosmic consciousness, prepare to be captivated by the profound teachings of Thoth and their relevance to our modern world. Tune in as we unlock the mysteries of the Emerald Tablets and embark on a journey of enlightenment.

In this captivating episode of our podcast, we embark on a journey through the lush world of botanical inspiration, exploring how plants have served as the driving force behind humanity’s artistic endeavors. Join us as we delve into the rich tapestry of art, music, literature, and beyond, all woven together by the profound influence of flora. This is the last episode of the series where we discussed each chapter of Jessica Huntley’s Plant Magick.

Let’s go on a journey through the world of plant medicines in this insightful episode. From the ancient rituals of cacao and coffee to the modern-day consumption of cannabis and alcohol, explore the rich history and cultural significance of these psychoactive plants. Discover their impact on human culture, health, and consciousness, as we delve into their rituals, controversies, and transformative experiences.

Join us on a journey through the mystical world of plants as we explore their profound connections to witchcraft, ceremonial practices, and sexuality. In this captivating episode, we delve into the fascinating history and significance of botanicals in various cultural traditions through the third chapter “Germination and Growth” in the book “Plant Magick” by Jessica Hundley. Discover the role of plants in witchcraft, where herbs like mandrake root and belladonna are believed to possess potent magical properties, shaping spells, rituals, and potions. Learn how ancient wisdom and modern practices intertwine as we explore the use of incense made from sacred herbs like sage and cedar to purify spaces and enhance spiritual experiences. Uncover the sensual allure of certain plants, from aphrodisiacs like ginseng and damiana to the symbolic power of flowers such as roses and jasmine in rituals celebrating love and sexuality. We also explore the intersection of plants and altered states of consciousness, from the ceremonial use of cannabis and mushrooms to induce spiritual enlightenment. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of botanical magic and uncover the deep connections between plants and the realms of witchcraft, ceremony, and sexuality. Tune in to gain insight into the enchanting world of plant-based wisdom and its profound impact on human experience. Follow @groundedspirits on all platforms!!

Explore the sacred symbolism woven throughout the natural world, from the mesmerizing patterns of the Fibonacci sequence to the intricate geometry found in every leaf and petal. Join us as we journey through sacred gardens, rediscover the artistry of nature, and embark on a quest to return to Eden. Uncover the profound connections between plants, myth, and spirituality, and delve into the enduring symbolism of trees, including the mystical Sephiroth. Let’s unlock the secrets of the earth together!

This is the first episode of the mini-series where I review and elaborate on the book entitled “Plant Magick” by Jessica Hundley. This first episode deep dives on the first section (of 5) that describes how humans and plants have always been so interconnected from the beginning of time to present day.

Delve into the depths of what it means to be human, exploring the intersections of the academic disciplines and their profound implications for understanding ourselves and the world. This interdisciplinary journey offers a transformative perspective, inviting scholars and curious minds alike to expand their understanding of the human experience. Follow @groundedspirits Follow @belaspri_ Follow @ilainstitute

In this enlightening episode, we unravel the ancient wisdom of how the elemental forces of fire, earth, water, and air correspond with the intricate aspects of the soul, mind, body, and spirit, offering insights into how their dynamic interplay shapes our holistic well-being and inner harmony. PS I keep referring to episode 111 but turns out I meant 112**

Join us as we delve into the intricate energy centers known as the chakras and their profound influence on our holistic well-being. From the stable foundation of the root chakra to the ethereal realms of the crown, we explore how these energy vortexes resonate within the soul, mind, body, and spirit, shaping our experiences and perceptions of the world. Grounded in the wisdom of ancient traditions and infused with the spirit of contemporary insights, we navigate through practical techniques and illuminating discussions to help you balance and align your chakras. Our motto, “Stay rooted, fly high,” encapsulates the essence of this journey – as we ground ourselves in the present moment, we open ourselves up to infinite possibilities for growth and transformation.

On this episode, we explore the different aspects of the soul, mind, body, and spirit by answering the following questions: 1. What makes the soul different from the spirit? 2. How do the mind and soul interact? 3. What defines the body as part of the collective? 4. Why is the spirit described as separate from matter? 5. How do these concepts help us understand ourselves and the world around us?

Take a moment to reflect on how much you’ve grown with me. Learn how to trust the universe and just be.

In this episode of our podcast, get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure of self-discovery with the Adulting Coach herself, Sara Deacon! Join us as we dive headfirst into the world of adulting with purpose and learn how to break free from fear, self-doubt, and negative self-talk. Sara's unique blend of discipline and creativity will help you find balance and connect with your inner power to confidently take ownership of your life. She shares her secrets on how to overcome limiting beliefs, find your passion, and adult like a boss, even if you're not quite sure what you're doing! So buckle up and get ready for a wild ride as we explore Sara Deacon's guide to adulting with purpose!To learn more about the CYA Course to find out how to integrate the liberal arts and astrology in a fun way go here or https://itslauraalyn.com/ilainstitute!To book a complimentary coaching call with Sara or to learn more about her go here or https://saradeacon.com/!

In this episode, we delve into the intersection of systems and creativity. We explore the concept of balancing structure and freedom in the creative process and the benefits of incorporating systems into your creative routine. Our guest, Michaell, shares his personal neurodivergent experiences and insights on how to harness the power of systems to enhance creativity and maximize productivity. From the importance of goal-setting to the role of experimentation and risk-taking, this episode will leave you inspired to incorporate new ideas and approaches into your own creative work. Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation about the role of systems in fostering creativity.

Michaell Magrutsche, Austrian/Californian multidisciplinary artist, creativity-awareness educator, speaker, and author. He works on raising the awareness of our limitless human potential and comprehending wisdom. Michaell is an advocate for helping understand neurodiversity.

Michaell’s dyslexia and dysgraphia forced him to develop an awareness of seeing the world purely from a human perspective. Creating art completed his awareness of what it is to be human-relevant vs system-relevant. 

You can connect with Michaell through:

https://michaellm.com/

You can connect with Laura through:

http://groundedspirits.com/links/

Join us in this episode as we delve into the unique world of a laughter coach and worm farmer. Our guest, Cathy Nesbitt, combines her passion for spreading joy and promoting sustainable living through their unique career as a laughter coach and worm farmer. With a mission to help individuals cultivate both inner and outer growth, Cathy Nesbitt will share her journey, insights, and tips on how she is able to make a positive impact in her community through her work. Whether you're looking to bring more laughter into your life, or you're interested in sustainable living, this episode is sure to put a smile on your face and leave you feeling inspired. Tune in now! For more on Cathy and Me, click here!