No 53 - Ancient Practices Are Going Mainstream — But Are We Truly Listening?

Something sacred is stirring in the collective. Sound baths echo through city studios. Sanskrit mantras pulse from Spotify playlists. Cacao ceremonies are served not just in the jungle, but on the high street. Intuitive painting classes sell out in moments.

Ancient practices are no longer fringe—they’re becoming the language of a new kind of awakening.

Even Buddhism—once quietly practised in temples and monasteries—is now mainstream. Meditation apps, mindfulness merch, Zen quotes on mugs… But is the deep inner work, the discipline, the heart of these teachings often left behind?

Amidst this beautiful resurgence, I find myself asking gently—but urgently:

Do we truly understand what we’re calling in?

Because it’s not just about chanting or sipping or painting…It’s about remembering the why. Honouring the roots.

Feeling the real power behind these sacred tools.

Do we truly understand what we’re inviting in?

Don’t get me wrong — I love that more people are reaching for depth, heart, and healing. But as a contemplative artist and guide who has spent years exploring the roots of these practices, walking the equally blissful and painful, transformative path, I believe there’s something vital missing in the conversation:

Meaning. Intention. Reverence.

Singing the Mantras — Understanding the Words

Kirtan has become a beloved practice in the West, and for good reason. The repetitive chanting of Sanskrit mantras has a profound impact on the nervous system, opening the heart and quieting the mind. But many people chant without knowing the meaning of the words they’re repeating — sacred syllables passed down for thousands of years.

That’s why I created my eBooks: to help you connect not just to the sound, but to the soul of the mantra. I break down popular kirtan chants, offering Sanskrit translations and an opportunity to help you truly embody what you're singing.

Creativity as Medicine for the Brain and Spirit

We are all living in a hyper-distracted world, creativity isn’t just nice — it’s necessary. Neuroscience now backs what ancient traditions always knew: when we create with intention, we regulate our nervous system, activate higher brain function, and access deeper states of consciousness.

In my eBooks, I explore what actually happens to your brain when you paint, chant, or journal — and how these practices create space for healing and insight.

Cacao as Ceremony, Not Just Trend

Cacao isn’t just a delicious superfood — it’s a sacred plant medicine with deep roots in Mesoamerican culture. I guide you through how to prepare cacao in a ceremonial way, turning your kitchen into a temple. From heart-opening recipes to setting intentions, you’ll learn to make every sip meaningful.

Painting the Energetic Body

One of the most unique aspects of my creative journey has been painting the subtle, energetic layers of the human form — the chakras, the auric field, the inner archetypes. My eBooks show you how to tap into your intuition, use colour and form as energetic tools, and express what can’t always be said in words.

This Isn’t Just About Learning — It’s About Remembering.

These ancient practices are alive.

They’re not trends.

They are invitations to return to the deeper truths within us — and within all of creation.

My eBooks are here to guide you gently, reverently, and joyfully into that remembrance.

EXPLORE MY EBOOKS - HERE

Instant download — read today and begin your journey.

Join us this summer at the Green Door Centre, Bosham, West Sussex, UK

Shakti Sangha is not a typical art workshop. It’s a space where you’re invited to simply show up as you are — no experience required, no expectations, no pressure.

You’ll be surrounded by kindred spirits — each person following their own creative thread — held in a space of quiet encouragement and shared presence. Whether you create in solitude or share your work with others, you’ll feel the quiet strength of the collective holding you.

✔️ No experience needed — just an open heart.

✔️ A rare chance to slow down and listen inwardly.

✔️ A heart-centred space to create and connect.

✔️ Gentle prompts to guide you — but no pressure to create.

✔️ Come as you are. Leave feeling restored.

This is your permission slip to create without expectation — to soften into the present moment and allow creative flow to emerge naturally.

Spaces are limited to keep the experience intimate. If you feel the pull, trust it — your creative spirit is already waiting.

👉 Reserve Your Spot — the moment you say yes, the shift begins.

With warmth and gratitude,

Jo & Tina

Step into the circle. Come home to your creative self.

BUY SHAKTI TICKETS

Curious to Learn More?

Your creativity deserves time, space, and care to flourish.

Discover how we can work together to support your artistic journey, inspire connection, and bring more meaning to your creative life.

Get in contact TODAY on; 07543660185 or use the contact page to send a message.

Until next time, let your creativity bloom in unexpected ways.