In this episode, Candace Veach provides an in-depth exploration of the question "Who am I?". She discusses how our self-identities and ego are provisional and impermanent constructs that change over time. Candace explains that there is a deeper, more permanent part of ourselves - the observer, witness, or soul.

She guides listeners to move beyond ego identification to connect with this subtle part of themselves.

To learn more or contact Candace www.onespirithealing.com

Key Discussion Points: - The "I" we refer to when we point to ourselves is a provisional identity based on temporary attributes. (00:01:34) - Our responses and perspectives change over time even if our experiences stay the same . . . we are ever-changing. (00:04:49) - Understanding the impermanent nature of ego identity brings freedom and flexibility. We can reinvent ourselves. (00:06:39)

- Trauma and difficult experiences can become fertilizer for spiritual growth when processed properly. (00:15:55) - Our breath connects us to our universal, expansive nature. It's the game of catch between our personal and universal self. (00:17:28)

Quote: "Stay present and keep breathing. Because a few flip pages from now, your feelings, perspectives, stories, all could be different."

Introduction:
In this episode, Candace Veach provides an alternative view on the story of Adam and Eve. Noting how the common interpretation has contributed to limiting beliefs about gender roles and patriarchal norms. Candace suggests the story can be reframed to show how both the feminine and masculine divine principles are integral to creation and humanity.

Main Discussion Points:

- The power of stories to shape cultural beliefs and gender norms (00:00:53)
- How the Adam & Eve story has been used to portray women as inferior, the "weaker sex" (00:03:52)
- Questioning how Eve was protrayed as a "divine afterthought" when that would be impossible for an Omniscient Being (00:05:42)
- Providing an alternative perspective where both Adam and Eve were equally part of the divine plan and Adam ate the apple as an act of love. (00:10:26)
- Scientifically, genetics show women are not derivative of men (00:18:37)
- Concluding the story can bring together and elevate the masculine and feminine principles rather than divide genders (00:20:21)

Key Quotes:

"It is the story of Adam and Eve that was used for the assumed reality that women couldn't make good decisions. Women shouldn't be educated. Women were the weaker sex and that men were meant to dominate women and not listen to them." (00:03:52)

"Eve is the one that ate the apple and then she manipulated Adam into doing so too. And there you have it. Women as seducers and or manipulators, something that we are still being accused of to this day." (00:04:22)

"By shifting perspective, the story of Adam and Eve Becomes not a story that breaks the genders into opposing sides and generates What's been called the gender wars, but rather bonds them together in a beautiful divine dance." (00:20:21)

In this episode, spiritual teacher Candace Veach provides an overview of how to get started on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. She discusses how to become more self-aware, explores the three main yogic paths to connect with your divine essence, and suggests some beginner practices for each path.

"The first step on any journey of self discovery is learning to notice yourself. To notice yourself as you are right in this moment."

For more guidance on mindfulness and self-observation download Journey to Joy: The first steps

Main Discussion Points:

- Learning to "notice yourself" through mindfulness and observation without judgement
- Understanding that you are not defined by external chaos, but by what within you rises above it.
- The three main yogic paths: bhakti (devotional), karma (action-based), jnana (wisdom/knowledge) and who resonates with each one.
- Ways to try out each path in the world or at home.
- Book recommendation ("The Chalice and the Blade")