“We must plant our dreams in real earth. We must dirty our hands. It’s the only way. Whether we dream of planting flower gardens or churches, ever dream needs a place in which to take root and grow. Every dream needs a home.”
― Christie Purifoy, Roots and Sky: A Journey Home in Four Seasons
Listen to Everything Can Be Reconciled in a Garden & Forest Whispers
274. Everything is Reconciled in a Garden
As the sun sets on a particularly challenging day, have you ever felt the magnetic pull of your garden, urging you to immerse your hands in the earth and let your worries fall away? Christy Purifoy joins us to unravel the intimate tapestry linking the nurturing of gardens to the flourishing of our mental and spiritual wellbeing. Her latest book, "Seed Time and Harvest," is more than a guide—it's an invitation to transform our lives through the rhythms of nature. In our heart-to-heart, we share stories that bloom from the soil of personal Edens, finding peace in practices as diverse as meditation, Tai Chi, and watercolor.
Navigating the landscape of our psyche often means confronting the thorns of anxiety and depression, a journey I share openly, reflecting on a 13-year chapter of trauma therapy and the importance of self-care. Christy and I delve into the importance of allowing others to lend us strength in times of need and the simple yet profound act of gardening as a tool for healing. Her narratives remind us to pause and tend to our inner gardens, drawing a poignant parallel between the flowers on our porches and the state of our souls.
Our conversation blossoms as we discuss life's ever-changing seasons and the divine invitations they extend to us. Christy's profound insights into the cycles of growth and decay in our gardens mirror the ebbs and flows of our existence. As we conclude, I'm thrilled to invite you to continue this exploration at Heartlift Central on Substack and to engage with our community on Instagram. Visit janellrardon.com to connect and support our journey, carrying the inspiration of Christy's stories with you as you cultivate your path to a connected, serene existence.
Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:
- Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online coaching center and meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
- Download the "Overcoming Hurtful Words" Study Guide PDF: BECOMING EMOTIONALLY HEALTHY
- Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon
- Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
- Learn more about my books and work: Janell Rardon
- Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International
273. Nurturing the Soul with Forest Whispers
Ever wondered how simply walking through a forest can soothe your soul and rejuvenate your body? Our latest episode unwraps the profound connection between well-being and the natural world, as we celebrate Earth Month with a deep dive into the biophilia hypothesis and the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. E.O. Wilson's insights lay the groundwork for our discussion, while Dr. Qing Li's expertise on forest bathing illuminates a path for not just physical health, but also spiritual growth and emotional resilience. We reminisce about personal nature encounters and reflect on the tranquil power of green spaces that often go unnoticed in our daily grind.
In a heartfelt narrative, I open up about my own health challenges with a rare esophageal disease, Achalasia, and how embracing the rhythms of the natural world has been a cornerstone of my healing journey. We also explore how simple practices like controlled breathing can amplify joy and contribute to a longer, healthier life. Learn about the POMS test and assess your current "mood status." Whether you're seeking solace in the serenity of nature or looking for practical advice to boost your well-being, this episode promises to be a breath of fresh air. Join us and reconnect with your true self, one step at a time, on the forest floor.
Begin Your Heartlifter's Journey:
- Visit and subscribe to Heartlift Central on Substack. This is our new online coaching center and meeting place for Heartlifters worldwide.
- Download the "Overcoming Hurtful Words" Study Guide PDF: BECOMING EMOTIONALLY HEALTHY
- Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon
- Leave a review and rate the podcast: WRITE A REVIEW
- Learn more about my books and work: Janell Rardon
- Make a tax-deductible donation through Heartlift International
Q: What God whispers are you hearing today?
Sharing My Prompt Thoughts
Today, I received the invitation to plant my dahlia tubers.
Digging the holes in the rich, brown soil steadied my soul.
Your Turn
Okay, it is your turn to share.
Meet me on Instagram: @janellrardon, and comment on my posts concerning our conversation.
Order “Stronger Every Day: 9 Tools for an Emotionally Healthy You” and learn nine ways to strengthen your relationship with God, yourself, and others.
And please join me on Substack: heartliftcentral.substack.com.
