I Lost My Sacred Crystals on the Subway—Then Something Amazing Happened

After a week that was both joyfully full and completely exhausting—teaching, celebrating, and soaking in the beauty of Connecticut—I returned to New York City, landing at Grand Central Station with my suitcase, my purse, and a special bag holding two magnificent selenite wands I use for healing and energy clearing.

I debated taking a cab home, but a street parade made traffic unpredictable. So I opted for the subway, despite the extra schlepping it required: down a flight of stairs to the shuttle from Grand Central to Times Square, then more stairs to get to the train home.

Somewhere in the shuffle, I realized—with a jolt—that my crystal bag was gone. My heart sank.

Photo by Nina Plobner

I sprinted back to the shuttle platform and waited for the next car to return, praying my bag would be there. When it arrived, I jumped in and searched frantically. Nothing.

I asked the conductor if anyone had turned in a bag. He shook his head no, but then paused. “Maybe the cleaner at Grand Central saw it,” he said. “Get back on the shuttle and you can ask her.”

To my astonishment, when we arrived back at Grand Central, he got out of the car and went looking for her himself. I followed him—and there, next to her cart, was my crystal bag, completely untouched.

I almost cried from relief—and gratitude.

Who says New Yorkers aren’t kind? This conductor went out of his way for me. The cleaner could have ignored or taken the bag, but didn’t. And two people helped me carry my suitcase up the stairs. It reminded me: at our core, people are good.

And maybe—just maybe—it was the protective power of the crystals that kept them safe.

Oh, and one more thing… I wasn’t wearing my grounding socks that day. Coincidence? Maybe. But it was a powerful reminder that grounding isn’t just spiritual—it's practical.

What I learned:

  • People can be incredibly generous and kind—especially when you least expect it.

  • Crystals hold energy, intention, and sometimes, even protection.

  • And being grounded helps prevent the chaos that comes from disconnection—both physically and energetically.

Let this be your nudge to open your heart and ground yourself today—whether it’s through breath, bare feet on the earth, or yes, those magical socks.

Special Offer: Claim your 15% discount on grounding products from my friends at TRU47 with code BB15TRU. Because staying grounded helps you stay present—and being present is where the miracles happen.

Father’s Day Blessings 

Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers, stepfathers, and mentors. Whatever you decide to do for this holiday, celebrate the men you cherish.

As my brother Mark, a father of three, wisely said: “The best present for me is always feeling loved, included, and appreciated.”

With love,

Barbara

Be the Mirror: A Ritual of Radiant Love 💗

One of my favorite rituals is to explore the arts as a path to healing and awakening. On Sunday, my friend Nancy and I went to see the musical Goddess at The Public Theatre in NYC. It was a stunning celebration of the power of music to heal, uplift, and build community.

As Saheem Ali, the writer and director, so beautifully said:
“It’s about how love inspires you to be your best self — how another human, regardless of gender, race, or any outward signifier, can hold up a mirror, giving you the courage and confidence to manifest your greatest potential.”

And yes—the dancing was absolutely spectacular!

As June begins and we step into Pride Month, it’s the perfect time to reflect on love in all its forms—bold, fierce, unconditional. This month, I invite you to practice being that mirror of love for someone else. A friend. A colleague. Your community.

 And don’t forget to do it for yourself.

Photo by Noah Buscher

I love Mel Robbins’ simple ritual:

Look in the mirror and give yourself a high five.
Try it each morning this week and notice what shifts. The world changes when we learn to see—and celebrate—our own light.

With love,

Barbara

The Love File: A Practice to Lift You Up 💌

I woke up today feeling a bit “off”—uncertain, not quite myself. Then, as if on cue, a beautiful testimonial from a client popped up on my computer screen.

As I read it, I could feel myself reconnecting with the part of me that is wise, grounded, and has helped thousands of people over the past 30 years. Just like that, I realigned with my purpose.

This is exactly why I keep what I call a “Love File.”

It’s a collection of kind words, thank-you notes, testimonials, and reminders of the impact I’ve made—personally and professionally. And I encourage all my clients and friends to do the same.

We’re hardwired to focus on the negative. One bad moment can easily overshadow an entire good day. That’s why we need intentional practices to help us stay on track.

My friend Joanne, for example, re-watches a video when she was interviewed by a  famous journalist whenever she needs a reminder of who she is and what she’s capable of. That’s her version of a Love File.

Here’s your invitation:

Start your own Love File. It can be a folder on your computer, a journal, or even a box filled with uplifting messages. When the doubt creeps in, open it. Remind yourself of your brilliance.

With love and purpose,

Barbara

Feeling Drained? Try These Simple Antidotes to Burnout

The world is loud. Life moves fast. And many of us are walking around with full schedules and empty energy tanks.

But you don’t need hours to reset—you just need a few moments of intention.

Over the past 30 years, I’ve guided CEOs, creatives, and caregivers through burnout, reinvention, and personal transformation. And what I know for sure is this:

Your well-being begins with the sacred pauses.

Here are some  simple tools you can try this week.

Sky Before Screen:
Before checking your phone, computer or tablet, look out the window for 30 seconds. This simple shift moves your brain from reactive to reflective and opens you up to a wider perspective.

Schedule Self-Care:
If it's not on your calendar, it often doesn’t happen. Block time for rest and rituals like they’re VIP meetings—because they are.

Helper’s High:
One act of kindness a day = powerful ripple effect. And helping others releases dopamine and other feel-good chemicals in the brain, which can lead to a sense of well-being. 

10 Minutes in Nature:
Let the earth recalibrate and ground you. Touch a tree, go barefoot in the grass, smell a flower.

Your power lives in presence, not perfection. Engaging in these rituals can help you realign with clarity, calm and a stronger connection to your inner wisdom.

What’s one small sacred step you’ll take this week?

Leave a comment below—I’d love to know.

With love and light,
Barbara

The Day the Statue of Sekhmet Spoke to Me

We are entering the potent portal of the Scorpio Full Moon, a time that invites deep release, transformation, and spiritual clarity. In the Buddhist tradition, this Full Moon is sacred—it honors the birth, enlightenment, and teachings of the Buddha.

Astrologer Lisa Zimmerman shares:

"Under this Full Moon, you have the opportunity to face, release or transmute old, conditioned patterns, behaviors, and beliefs that are dragging you down and limiting your life. Bless and release anything that's draining your energy, inhibiting your progress, or misaligned with your Evolving Self."

This energy is fierce—and so is the goddess who’s been guiding me for years: Sekhmet, the lion-headed warrior and healer of Ancient Egypt.

With her solar fire, she scorches illusion and restores strength. I first encountered her in the home of Jean Houston, who owns one of the oldest Sekhmet statues. Our interaction was profound… but the true initiation came in 2022, in Egypt.

We were meditating in Sekhmet’s sanctuary at Karnak when I suddenly felt flooded with a high-frequency light. I got dizzy. Disoriented. And then—I heard her voice:

"It is time for me to be out in the world again, and all I require is your respect and light."

After our meditation, my friend Terry- a professional psychic for over 30 years-  shared that she’d seen electric blue feathers streaming from Sekhmet into my crown chakra.

Since then, Sekhmet has been by my side—sometimes fierce, sometimes gentle—but always focused on helping me, and those I work with, become the fullest version of who we’re meant to be. She is tough love embodied. 

This Sunday, May 18, I’ll be offering a special event for those in the Tri-State area:
Spirituality and the City: A Small Group Tour of Ancient Egypt in NYC.

We’ll explore how Egyptian wisdom lives within our urban landscape, connect with Sekhmet and other divine energies, and transmute energy that’s holding you back. This is sacred play, deep ritual, and a celebration of spirit in everyday life.

If you feel called to release what dims your light, and to stand fully in your power, I hope you’ll join me.

With love and light,
Barbara

A Celebration of Mothers: Honoring the Sacred Feminine 💝

Most of us mark Mother’s Day with flowers, cards, or brunch—but few realize how ancient and sacred this celebration truly is. Across time and cultures, motherhood has been revered as a divine force: the giver of life, the nurturer of spirit, and the embodiment of unconditional love.

Long before the Hallmark cards, societies across the globe honored the Mother Goddess:

  • In ancient Egypt, she was Isis, protector and nurturer.

  • The Greeks celebrated Rhea, mother of the gods, including Zeus.

  • In Rome, Cybele, the Great Mother, was honored during spring festivals as early as 2250 B.C.

  • Yemọja, a Yoruba deity, is the mother spirit, patron of women, and a fertility goddess

  • Taoist tradition celebrates May 25th as “Mother of the World Day”, with incense offerings and meditations on Divine Harmony.

  • In England, Mothering Sunday offered workers a rare day off to visit and honor their mothers.

  • Native American traditions celebrate Mother Earth as the ultimate mother, urging us to care for her.

A Day for Peace and Healing

Did you know the first Mother’s Day in the U.S. was actually a call to end war?

In 1870, Julia Ward Howe (who wrote “The Battle Hymn of the Republic”) issued aMother’s Day Proclamation, urging women to stop their sons from killing the sons of other mothers. She called for a global Mother’s Day of Peace.

Later, in 1908, Anna Jarvis organized a day to honor her own mother, who had created“Mother’s Friendship Days”to heal divisions after the Civil War. Anna gave out her mother’s favorite flower—white carnations—which remain a symbol of remembrance. (Pink and red carnations are used to honor living mothers.) President Woodrow Wilson officially declared Mother’s Day a national holiday in 1914.

Who Is a “Mother”?

Today, we honor not only biological mothers, but also the godparents, mentors, aunties, foster parents, stepparents, and loving friends who have “mothered” us—and who have mothered our children. Mothering is a sacred act, regardless of biology or gender.

The Mother’s Day Appreciation Box

(Adapted from The Joy of Family Rituals)

What you’ll need:
A container—shoebox, hatbox, cigar box—plus decorations (ribbons, beads, photos, etc.)

What to place inside:

  • A handwritten list of what you love about your mother

  • Small treasures (favorite tea, a poem, bath oil, baked cookies)

  • Promises to help or spend time (e.g. “I’ll cook dinner once a week”)

  • Original artwork or letters

  • A playlist of her favorite songs (my friend David created one for his mom, and my son Jourdan always adds a hand-drawn cartoon to my cards!)

This ritual is especially powerful when done as a family project, involving multiple generations and voices of love.

Celebrate Virtually: Long-Distance Love & Digital Rituals

If you can’t be with your mom—or chosen mother—in person this year, create a virtual ritual that still brings heart and presence.

 Host a Zoom Mother's Day Gathering:
Invite family or friends to share memories, photos, or readings that honor the mother(s) in your life. Light a candle to begin, and end with a collective toast or meditation.

 Send a Personalized Video Tribute:
Record short clips of family and friends sharing what they love or appreciate most about her. Edit into a simple video, or just send them as-is. It’s a powerful way to say: you are seen and cherished.

Curate a Spotify Playlist:
Put together a list of her favorite songs—or songs that remind you of her strength, softness, humor, or wisdom. Title it something like “Songs for Mama” or “Goddess Vibes Only”.

Create a Virtual Appreciation Box:
Make a shared Google Doc or Canva collage where everyone contributes notes, poems, or memories. Include links to photos, recipes, or digital gifts.

The intention behind the gesture is what makes it sacred. Ritual doesn’t need to be fancy—it just needs to be felt.

And don’t forget our first mother—Mother Earth. Offer her a prayer, plant a tree, or simply spend time in nature.

Reclaim the Ritual

As the author of The Joy of Ritual, I believe that reclaiming holidays like Mother’s Day as soulful, healing rituals can deepen our connections—with each other, with the earth, and with our ancestors.

Let’s make this Mother’s Day. And all special moments (birthdays, baby showers, graduations, weddings) not just another commercial moment—but a sacred celebration of nurturing in all its forms.

With love and reverence,
Barbara

May Day Magic: Awaken to New Possibilities 🌸

Can you feel it? The Earth is stirring, the birds are singing louder, and blossoms are bursting open with joyful abandon. A new season is calling—and it’s filled with possibility.

Welcome to the month of May, when the air hums with the energy of fertility, creativity, and fresh starts. This is a time when the spirit of Mother Mary whispers healing into our hearts and opens the door to deeper love and purpose.

One of my favorite ways to honor this vibrant season is through the ancient celebration of Beltane—also known as May Day. This sacred festival is a joyful outpouring of life-force energy, celebrated with bonfires, flowers, and dancing around the Maypole. Traditionally symbolizing the union of masculine and feminine energies, Beltane invites us to celebrate the sacred dance of creation in all its forms.

It is a time to honor the sacred union of Earth and Sky—where gratitude becomes a magnet for abundance, and offerings invite health, fertility, and renewal. From the Celts driving cattle through protective fires, to the Romans weaving flower crowns, every tradition sings the same song: life is blossoming, and so can you.

This season is your reminder: it's never too late to begin again.

Whether you’re planting seeds in your garden or seeds of intention in your soul, Beltane encourages you to follow what lights you up. Let joy lead the way.

Beltane Ritual: Create an Intention Garden

  • Write your hopes and dreams on slips of paper and bury them under stones in your garden or a local park.

  • Paint or draw your intentions on rocks and place them in the earth.

  • Water them with your presence, joy, and belief.

Then, move your body in celebration:

  • Dance wildly

  • Sing loudly

  • Rollerblade down the street

  • Swing in a park

  • Jump on a trampoline

  • Make messy, magical art

Let your spirit play.

And as the morning dew kisses your skin, may it awaken your inner fire and remind you: the magic is already here.

With love, blessings, and Beltane beauty,
Barbara

What the Earth Taught Me About Healing + A Gift for You 🌿

Today is Global Earth Day, a powerful moment to pause, reconnect, and honor the Earth — our ultimate source of nourishment, healing, and wisdom.

In 2007, my brother Mark gave me a book that changed my life: To Be Healed by the Earth by Warren Grossman. It introduced me to a truth that when we reconnect with the Earth, we tap into a natural, ancient source of healing for both our bodies and emotions.

Since then, many books have echoed this wisdom — from Barefoot Wisdom to Get Grounded, Get Well, and Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness. The message is clear: our connection to the Earth is not just symbolic — it's essential.

As I often say, grounding is a necessity — not a luxury — if we want to stay healthy, present, and strong.

Here are just a few of the benefits of grounding:

  • Feel safer and more focused in the now

  • Respond rather than react

  • Stay flexible in the moment

  • Become more aware of your body, emotions, and surroundings

To support you, I’ve recorded a short grounding practice — my gift to you.

Click here to watch the video

And here's a beautiful way we can give back: Plant a tree. Trees are medicine for the planet. I love supporting One Tree Planted, an organization that’s already planted over 135 million trees around the world. A small donation goes a long way — and helps heal the Earth for generations to come.

Also, I’ve been loving my grounding socks from True47.com — they’ve become part of my daily ritual. (They have other amazing products I’ll share in future newsletters too.) If you're curious, here is a special discount code just for you: Use code BB10TRU at checkout for 10% savings.

Let’s continue walking in harmony with this beautiful planet — one grounded step at a time.

With love and roots deep in the Earth,
Barbara

Reconnect With What Is Sacred

In many traditions, this is a sacred season — a time of reflection, transformation, and renewal.

In the Vedic tradition, this marks the beginning of a New Year, a time when prayers are offered for health, prosperity, joy, and success.

In the Hebrew tradition, it is the season of counting the Omer — 49 days of intentional reflection. Each evening, a blessing is recited, and this week’s focus is on chesed — loving-kindness.

In Christianity, this is Holy Week, culminating in Easter Sunday. It’s a time to turn inward, deepen faith, and prepare the heart and mind for the mystery and miracle of resurrection.

No matter your spiritual path — or whether you follow one at all — this moment invites us all to pause and reconnect with what is sacred.

I also want to gently remind you: any moment can become sacred when we bring intention to it. Creating a simple ritual for a birthday, baby shower, graduation, or life transition can add deep meaning and beauty to any occasion.

Rituals help us honor where we are and mark what matters most. If you’re planning a special gathering and want to infuse it with more soul and connection, I’d be honored to help you design something unique and heartfelt.

In the meantime, I invite you to count your blessings. Let this simple act open the door to grace. Gratitude, after all, is a universal prayer — one that reminds us that life itself is holy.

With love,
Barbara

Feeling Overwhelmed? A Powerful Practice to Release Fear & Return to Center

I was totally energized this weekend as I marched down 5th Avenue with hundreds of thousands of people, united in purpose and peaceful resistance. It reminded me of the 1970s—uplifting, empowering, and filled with people who simply want their voices to be heard.

Yet, beneath that collective hope, I can feel the tremors of anxiety that many of us are carrying.

 The world feels unstable right now.

  • The U.S. stock market is spiraling.

  • AI is replacing jobs at an unprecedented rate.

  • Political chaos and reckless leadership stir daily unrest.

  • And burnout is becoming a constant companion.

We are living in an era of massive breakdown, but history has shown us that breakthrough often begins here—in the rubble, in the confusion, and in the quiet courage to keep going.

My motto right now? Learn to see the chaos without becoming the chaos.

A Simple, Powerful Tool to Ground Yourself

Today, I want to share one of my favorite techniques to neutralize negative emotions and return to center—a practice I’ve used for over 25 years, drawn from the teachings of Jin Shin Jyutsu, introduced to me through a global healing group called Capacitar.

Watch this video for a guided experience.

Before you begin, I like to prepare the space with my Space Spray or Unplug blends—setting the tone for healing and presence.

As you hold each finger, breathe in deeply and acknowledge any emotions rising to the surface.
Breathe out slowly. Let them go.
Imagine the energy draining through your fingers into the Earth.
Breathe in harmony, strength, and clarity.

Each Finger Corresponds to a Specific Emotion:

  1. Thumb – Releases insecurity. Invites confidence, love, memory, and manifestation.

  2. Index Finger – Releases fear. Invites vitality, courage, sparkle, and strength.

  3. Middle Finger – Releases anger. Invites clarity, focus, inspiration, and action.

  4. Ring Finger – Releases grief and sorrow. Invites change, communication, and emotional evolution.

  5. Pinky Finger – Releases denial and confusion. Invites joy, laughter, love, and spiritual openness.

  6. Palm (center) – The Total Harmonizing Point, for full-body balance and calm.

You can do this anywhere—at your desk, before bed, on a plane. It’s a sacred pause in the middle of modern madness.

You Are Not Alone

If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or simply unsure of your next step, know that you are not alone. I'm here to support you with tools, rituals, and 1:1 guidance to help you stay grounded, resilient, and spiritually connected—even (and especially) in uncertain times.

Let’s work together—reach out for a session or join my next circle. Now is the time to choose peace over panic, clarity over confusion, and presence over pressure. Let’s walk this path together.

With love,
Barbara

Ignite Your Creativity & Call in Prosperity This Week 💰💫

I’m still feeling the high from our incredible Playshop on Saturday! Thank you to everyone who showed up with open hearts and minds. The energy we created together was powerful, and I left with so much joy, optimism, and clarity about the work ahead. One of the key themes we explored was: What is life asking me to shift right now?

I’ll be sharing my own Ah-Ha moments soon, along with some exciting new offerings coming in late spring/early summer. But for now, I want to invite you to share this newsletter with your friends and communities. My intention is to expand this work by at least 50%, and your support in spreading the word will help bring these teachings to more people who need them.

The Art of Re-Creation

We are in a time of profound re-creation. True visionaries are those who see patterns of possibility before they take form. The greatest form of creativity is the recreation of yourself. This is a moment to break out of old patterns and boldly step into something new.

As we move through the sacred energy of Navratri – the 9 Nights of the Goddess, I encourage you to call on Durga to activate your spiritual potential and help you move through obstacles. You can watch my video on Durga on Instagram or Facebook.

From Wednesday to Friday, we shift to honoring Lakshmi—goddess of prosperity, love, and beauty. If you’d like to invite more of her energy into your life, join me for a live Zoom activation on Wednesday at 7 PM EDT.

Trusting Your Inner Guidance

One thing that has become very clear to me: within each of us is a space of profound wisdom, waiting for us to trust it. Our inner guidance is always speaking—it’s our job to listen. In chaotic times, this trust is our greatest medicine.

To step into this creative energy, we must be willing to violate norms. It’s okay to get shot down—what matters is developing the confidence to take creative risks. When we push our brains beyond their comfort zones, we unlock new possibilities.

Another way to tap into this wisdom? Join me for a spiritual pilgrimage to the Ancient Egyptian collection at the Met. As many of you know, I’ve immersed myself in the esoteric rituals of Egypt, and these visits are profoundly transformative. Many of the artifacts—especially the Sekhmet statues—hold living energy, and those who approach them with reverence often receive deep wisdom and healing.

With love,
Barbara

Spring Cleansing for the Soul: Signs, Synchronicities & Solar Eclipse Magic

This past weekend, I gave myself the gift of a personal Spring Cleanse for the Soul—two full days to reset, reflect, and realign.

I journaled. I walked. I meditated. I pulled cards for guidance. And most importantly, I asked myself:

  • What do I truly need right now?

  • What is the best use of my energy and time?

With this intention set, the Universe responded almost immediately:

  • A lost treasure returned. Stopping by my favorite café, the barista asked if I had lost a pair of sunglasses. I had given up on ever finding them, but he had saved them for me.

  • An unexpected discount. At the art store, I bought a new sketchbook—only to be told at checkout that it was 20% off.

  •  A small but powerful sign. While reorganizing my closet, I found $5 tucked away in a pocket.

It reminded me of what one of my first spiritual teachers taught me: The Universe doesn’t distinguish between $1 or $1 million—it simply offers gifts. The question is, will you receive them with gratitude?

Gratitude creates more gratitude.

A Powerful Portal is Opening

As we step into this weekend’s Solar Eclipse, be open to the signs and synchronicities all around you. What messages is the Universe sending you?

And as if that weren’t enough, Sunday marks the beginning of Navratri—nine nights dedicated to the goddess, a time for shedding old, stuck energy and calling in wisdom, prosperity, and love.

I’m hosting two special events to honor these powerful cosmic shifts. Scroll down to join me.

Expect the unexpected. Be open. And say yes.

With love,
Barbara

The Power of Ritual to Transform Your Life 🌸

Can you believe we’re already approaching the Spring Equinox? This sacred turning point reminds us of how quickly time passes—and how important it is to BE HERE NOW, fully present, and open to the possibilities ahead.

Right now, you deserve to feel energized, clear, and excited—not drained, overwhelmed, or lost. That’s where ritual comes in.

Over the past week, I’ve been re-watching Joseph Campbell and The Power of Myth. His teachings, along with wisdom from Brugh Joy, Jean Houston, Angeles Arrien, and many indigenous traditions, have shaped my own journey. They deepened my understanding that ritual is not just a practice—it’s a gateway to our inherent wisdom and resilience.

For decades, I have guided people through powerful rituals that help them move through life’s transitions, unlock their purpose, and step into a greater sense of clarity and flow. Rituals are the bridge between where you are and where you long to be.

Why Spring is the Perfect Time for Ritual

Spring beckons us with renewal, possibility, and rebirth. It is the start of the astrological new year, and many cultures honor this time with sacred traditions that clear the past and welcome fresh energy.

The Spring Equinox (March 20) is a profound moment when light and dark come into balance, reminding us to align our own lives. This is the perfect time to set intentions, shed what no longer serves you, and step into a new season with clarity and power.

How to Celebrate Spring with Ritual

Celebrate Noruz: The Persian New Year: Noruz (March 21) means “new day” and symbolizes hope, renewal, and abundance. This ancient celebration is observed in Turkey, Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and beyond.

One of my favorite Noruz traditions is creating a Haft-Sin table, which includes seven symbolic foods for prosperity and good fortune, along with elements like painted eggs, mirrors, water bowls, candles, and flowers. Even if you don’t celebrate Noruz traditionally, you can create your own version of this altar to honor fresh beginnings and invite abundance into your life.

Need Some Guidance?

I’ve spent years guiding people through personalized rituals, visioning, and energy clearing—helping them navigate life’s transitions with clarity, confidence, and deep inner wisdom.

If you’re feeling called to bring ritual into your life in a deeper way, let’s connect. Whether it’s one-on-one ritual work, space clearing, or group ceremonies, I’d love to help you step into this season with purpose.

Wishing you a season of renewal, magic, and transformation!

PS: Make sure to check out our upcoming events

With love,
Barbara

The Power of Resilience: Stories That Inspire Us to Rise

It’s too easy to get caught in the cycle of chaos and negativity. But what if we shifted our focus to the stories of those who have dared to rise above it—those who have stood in courage and changed the course of history?

One such story is that of Queen Esther, whose bravery is honored during the Jewish holiday of Purim on March 13th. Her story is a powerful lesson in resilience, faith, and the courage to speak up, even in the face of great danger.

The Story of Queen Esther: A Lesson in Courage

Esther was an orphaned Jewish girl raised by her uncle Mordecai in ancient Persia. Through a twist of fate, she was chosen to be queen and became the wife of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus)—though he was unaware of her Jewish identity.

Meanwhile, the King’s chief advisor, Haman, harbored a deep hatred for the Jewish people. When Mordecai refused to bow to him, Haman devised a plan to have all Jews in the empire executed. The King, not realizing the full consequences, signed off on the decree.

Mordecai urged Esther to act, telling her: "Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14)

Fearful but determined, Esther risked her life by approaching the King uninvited—an act punishable by death. She revealed her true identity and pleaded for her people’s lives. The King, enraged by Haman’s deceit, reversed the decree and sentenced Haman to death instead.

Her courage not only saved her people but changed the course of history. Purim, the holiday that celebrates this victory, is a reminder that we all have moments when we are called to step forward, take a stand, and change the narrative—both in our personal lives and in the world.

Why This Matters Now

This year, more than ever, we must tell the stories of those who have dared to take risks and shape destiny. This is not a time to shrink back—it is a time to build spiritual, mental, and emotional resilience so that we can make powerful choices for ourselves and for the good of others.

In honor of Women’s History Month, I’ll be hosting inspired conversations on my YouTube Channel and Instagram Live, featuring incredible women who are stepping into their power and making a difference. I invite you to tune in, be inspired, and gather the tools to strengthen your own resilience.

Are You Ready to Reclaim Your Strength?

If you’re feeling burnt out, anxious, or searching for deeper meaning and belonging, I’m here to help. My private sessions and group rituals are designed to guide you through this threshold—helping you reconnect with your inner wisdom, navigate uncertainty, and step into your highest potential.

And don’t forget that we are having a lunar eclipse on March 14th and Mercury goes retrograde on the 15th. Slow down and back everything up!

Let’s work together—book a session or join an upcoming event.
It’s time to move from fear to power, from exhaustion to renewal. Let’s begin.

With love & resilience,
Barbara

Women’s History Month: The Heroine’s Journey

I remember being part of a consciousness-raising group in the ’70s. We were young, fierce, and determined to reshape how women were seen and treated in the world.

Inspired by trailblazers like Gloria Steinem, Bella Abzug, and Betty Friedan, we believed in our power to create change. And we did.

If you have:

  • A credit card in your own name

  • Rented or bought property without a male co-signer

  • The right to consent to your own medical treatment

  • Played competitive sports in school

You can thank Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the generations of women who fought for these rights.

My own journey led me to the discovery of the Goddess traditions and ancient mystery schools, where I learned to heal the myth of the "Superwoman" and reclaim the deep, sacred power of the feminine.

But while we've made strides, we also see how easily rights can be taken away. Some of the freedoms we fought for are under attack.

As Women Deliver states: 

“When women are meaningfully represented in leadership—whether in legislatures, courts, executive boards, or community councils—laws and decisions become more inclusive, representative, and equitable.”

That’s why, this March, I’m dedicating my Instagram and YouTube to honoring the women shaping our world today—in business, politics, art, and spirituality.

I’ll also be sharing powerful spiritual tools and rituals to help you:

  • Strengthen your intuition

  • Build resilience in uncertain times

  • Call in abundance and empowerment

Join me on this journey! Follow me on Instagram and YouTube, and let’s celebrate, learn, and act together.

P.S. Want to deepen your personal journey? I offer private rituals, space clearings, and transformational coaching to help you step into your full power. Let’s connect and imagine a gender equal world. A place where everyone is valued.

With love & resilience,
Barbara

How To Tame Your Inner Critic

I recently received an email from a client who felt stuck and frustrated because she hadn’t lived up to the vision collage she created last year. This is someone who has shown great courage and accomplished so much in her career, yet the feeling of shame kept her from joining my recent workshop.

Her message struck a chord with me because I know this feeling all too well. When we don’t meet our own expectations, it’s easy to fall into self-blame, guilt, and shame. Our inner critic can be ruthless, making us feel like we’ve failed—not just at our goals, but at life itself.

But here’s the truth: this kind of self-judgment doesn’t serve us. It paralyzes us. It creates inertia, stuck energy, and can even lead to self-sabotaging behaviors like overeating, overspending, or withdrawing from the people who could support us.

Breaking Free from Shame & Inertia

Sometimes, things don’t go according to plan. That doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it just means the goal you thought you wanted may not be right for you now, or it might simply need a shift in direction. Instead of isolating yourself in shame, reach out. No one is judging you as harshly as you judge yourself.

Our brains are wired to cling to negativity like Velcro while letting positive experiences slip away like Teflon. Shifting from self-sabotage to empowerment requires building mental, emotional, and spiritual resilience so you can keep showing up for yourself and the world.

And the next time you find yourself saying, “I lost my focus,” remember you haven’t lost it—you’ve just misplaced it. And it can always be found.

A Simple Practice to Quiet Your Inner Critic

Next time that inner critic starts screaming at you, try this:

  • STOP. Take a pause.

  • Place your arms around yourself and say, “I’m sorry for being so hard on you.”

  • Take a deep breath.

  • Do one small, positive step forward. Just one.

You don’t have to do it alone. If you’re feeling stuck, reach out—I’m here to help. And if this message resonated with you, share it with someone who might need it. Let’s lift each other up.

PS: Make sure to check out our upcoming events.

With love,
Barbara

The Ancient Origins of Valentine’s Day: Love as a Ritual for Transformation ❤️

When we think of Valentine’s Day, we picture chocolates, flowers, and gifts—but did you know this day of love is rooted in ancient rituals, sacred traditions, and powerful symbols that have transcended time?

A Love Ritual from the Ancients

Long before Hallmark cards and candlelit dinners, the Romans celebrated Lupercalia, a festival honoring fertility, ancestors, and the cycle of rebirth. Single women placed their names into urns, where bachelors would draw lots to determine a match—sometimes for a night, sometimes for a year.

In medieval France and England, this practice evolved: men wore their beloved’s name on their sleeve (where we get the phrase wearing your heart on your sleeve) and pledged to care for her for a full year.

The Story of St. Valentine

One legend says that in the 3rd century, Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriage, believing that unattached men made better soldiers. A compassionate Christian priest named Valentine defied this decree, secretly marrying couples. When discovered, he was imprisoned and ultimately executed on February 14th. Before his death, he sent a letter to the jailer’s daughter, signing it “From your Valentine”—a phrase we still use today.

Through the centuries, these traditions endured: handwritten love notes, heartfelt poetry, and the exchange of gifts as symbols of devotion. In the Victorian era, pressed flowers and scented letters were believed to hold the essence of the sender’s emotions. 

A Valentine’s Ritual: Love as an Act of Devotion

Whether you are in a relationship or single, love always begins within. When we nurture love within ourselves, we become a magnet for deeper, healthier relationships.

If you are in a relationship:

  • Reignite passion—reflect on what drew you together in the first place.

  • Heal miscommunication—shift the focus from criticism to appreciation.

  • Renew your vows—remind your partner what you love about them and commit to nurturing your bond.

If you are single:

  • Treat yourself as precious—love yourself the way you want to be loved.

  • Set an intention for love—what do you truly desire in a partner?

  • Indulge in self-care—buy yourself flowers, take yourself to brunch, start a creative project.

  • Know that love is everywhere—the best place to meet someone isn’t a dating app, it’s in the flow of life when you’re doing what brings you joy.

Love as a Daily Practice

Imagine how different your life would be if every day were Valentine’s Day—not about commercialized romance, but about true, deep, intentional love. Love for yourself. Love for your partner. Love for your friends, family, and community.

And let’s not forget Mother Earth—the original source of love and abundance. This Valentine’s Day, offer a rose to the earth as a token of gratitude. Let’s nurture and cherish her as we do our own hearts.

May this be a season of love, renewal, and transformation.

Gift yourself and your loved ones with my magical aromatherapy sprays: Of all of our 5 senses, smell is the one thing that goes directly to the brain, thereby influencing our emotions and physical health. Shop Here.

With love,
Barbara

Finding Light in Challenging Times

Lately, our world feels like a game of shock and awe—a strategy designed to overwhelm, keeping us in a constant state of reaction. When we’re in this mode, we lose touch with our inner wisdom, our power, and our deep connection to Source. We forget that, despite external chaos, we can make conscious choices every single day about how we want to live.

Shifting Perspective: The Black Dot Story

A professor once gave his students a surprise test. When they turned over their papers, they found no questions—just a single black dot in the center of the page.

“Write about what you see,” the professor instructed.

Every student described the black dot—its position, size, and meaning—but no one mentioned the vast white space surrounding it.

When all the papers were read, the professor explained:
“This is how we often live our lives. We focus only on the black dot—our worries, fears, and struggles—while ignoring the countless blessings surrounding us. But what if we shifted our attention? What if we saw the full picture?”

A Simple Tool to Shift Energy

The next time something upsets you:

  1. Stop. Pause before reacting.

  2. Press the spot between your brows and say: CANCEL, CLEAR.

  3. Visualize your heart as a radiant star, sending love and light to every cell in your body. Let this energy balance, harmonize, and restore your inner peace.

Grounding & Taking Conscious Action

Spend time in nature.

Move your body…walk, dance…exercise

Connect through prayer or meditation.

Set positive intentions—then take inspired action. Start with small structure action steps.

As we shift our focus, we not only change our personal reality, but we collectively elevate the world.

With love,
Barbara

Your Next Step: Turning Vision Into Reality

I’m still riding the high from our Vision 2025 Workshop last weekend! The energy we created together—in person in NYC and with participants joining via livestream from Hawaii, California, Canada, Boston, and beyond—was nothing short of transformative.

What I loved most was the diversity of our community. We came together—across ages, races, and sexual orientations—proving that when we unite in a shared intention, we co-create something truly magical.

VISION 2025 Transformational Weekend Workshop

Revolution and Renaissance

As astrologer Rebecca Gordon reminded us, we are living through a time of revolution and a new Renaissance. Amid the challenges, this is a birth of creativity and expansion.

And here’s the truth: we are the technology of the future.

But here’s what I also know for sure—while we can call in the Light and create a zone of manifestation, blessings, and abundance, if our energetic container isn’t strong enough to hold it, it leaks out.

So, our work is clear:
We must strengthen our mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical bodies.

Negative thoughts, old patterns, and limiting beliefs shrink our ability to hold this new energy. Patterns like:

  • Fear of abandonment

  • Seeking approval

  • Not feeling supported

  • Poverty consciousness

  • Unworthiness

These are ready to be healed.

The Year of the Wood Snake: Lunar Wisdom for 2025 

As we step into the Lunar Year of the Wood Snake on Wednesday, the energy of this year calls for:

  • Reflection, growth, and personal transformation

  • Deepening your intuition and mastering timing

  • Shedding outdated habits and beliefs

  • Strategic action—making every move count

This is not about rushing or overhauling your life overnight. Instead, it’s about consistently aligning with your values and making choices that bring you closer to the life you envision.

And as you do, your definition of success may begin to shift. By walking your authentic spiritual path with practical feet, you inspire others to do the same.

What’s Next for You?
This is your moment to build a container strong enough to hold the life you’re manifesting.

With love,
Barbara

Uncertain About the Future? Let’s Shape It Together

“The best thing you can do is to get very good at being you.” — Dennis the Menace

When I graduated college, I was offered my dream job in Rome. Ten days before I was supposed to leave, the job was canceled. I was devastated, but something deep within urged me to go anyway. With the small amount of money I had, I packed my bags and embarked on a journey that changed my life. Trusting my intuition led me to incredible opportunities: working in film, meeting lifelong friends, and eventually moving to London.

What I learned from that experience is this: when we limit how we think we’ll receive, we might miss out on the unexpected gifts the Universe is offering us.

Memories from our last in-person VISION workshop

This lesson reminds me of a favorite story:


The man whispered, “God, speak to me,” and a meadowlark sang.
But the man didn’t hear.
He shouted, “God, show me a miracle!” and a life was born.
But the man didn’t notice.
He cried, “Touch me, God, and let me know you are here!”
Whereupon, God reached down and touched the man with a butterfly.
But the man brushed it away and walked on.

—Author Unknown

As we face uncertainty in our world today—politically, environmentally, and personally—this story reminds us to remain open to guidance, connection, and possibility.

This is the heart of Vision 2025: Shape Your Destiny. Learn more here.

With love,
Barbara