In this episode of the Seeking Numina: Sacred Places Podcast, Elyse Welles sits down with Finnish folklorist, author, and illustrator Niina Niskanen to explore the mystical world of Finnish tree magic, animism, sauna spirits, ancient folklore traditions, and a Lord of the Rings connection.

Together they discuss the spiritual significance of saunas in Finnish culture, the connection between trees and deities in Finnish mythology, forest spirits, ritual practices, and the animistic worldview woven through Finland’s ancient traditions.

This conversation is perfect for anyone interested in:
Finnish mythology, pagan traditions, animism, witchcraft, sacred ecology, forest spirituality, folklore studies, Tolkien inspirations, sauna culture, and nature-based spirituality.

📚 Niina Niskanen is the author of Finnish Tree Magic and has a forthcoming book on Finnish water magic and sea goddess lore.

🌲 Learn more about Niina:

* Fairy Chamber Official Website
* Fairy Chamber Instagram

Order my books to support me and support your connection with the land! https://www.elysewelles.com/books

Subscribe to Seeking Numina with Elyse Welles on YouTube for video versions of ALL episodes sharing footage of the places and topics discussed.

To learn more about my upcoming retreats to sacred places in Greece and beyond, or learn with me in workshops, classes, or mentorship, visit elysewelles.com.

Support Seeking Numina on Patreon for a library of 300+ rituals, meditaitons, exclusive videos, and more, + opportunities for free tarot readings and discounts on ALL classes and retreats. Visit patreon.com/elysewelles

Seeking Numina can also be supported via my Dashery merch shop.

Music: Tribal Wind - SergePavkinMusic
Music Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWe5Z7qISMQ

What does it really mean to awaken in today’s rapidly changing world?

In this powerful episode of Seeking Numina: Sacred Places Podcast, spiritual teacher and Ayurveda pioneer Maya Tiwari shares profound wisdom on Shakti (feminine power), 5D consciousness, the middle path, and reclaiming personal sovereignty in a time of global transformation.

Maya Tiwari is the founder of the Wise Earth School of Ayurveda and a globally recognized spiritual teacher, author, and humanitarian. Her work focuses on ahimsa (harmony), healing, and awakening human consciousness.

📘 Featured Book: I Am Shakti

#SpiritualAwakening #5DConsciousness #MayaTiwari #Shakti #FeminineEnergy

Order my books to support me and support your connection with the land! https://www.elysewelles.com/books

Subscribe to Seeking Numina with Elyse Welles on YouTube for video versions of ALL episodes sharing footage of the places and topics discussed.

To learn more about my upcoming retreats to sacred places in Greece and beyond, or learn with me in workshops, classes, or mentorship, visit elysewelles.com.

Support Seeking Numina on Patreon for a library of 300+ rituals, meditaitons, exclusive videos, and more, + opportunities for free tarot readings and discounts on ALL classes and retreats. Visit patreon.com/elysewelles

Seeking Numina can also be supported via my Dashery merch shop.

Music: Tribal Wind - SergePavkinMusic
Music Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWe5Z7qISMQ

What if the land is speaking… and we’ve simply forgotten how to listen?

In this episode of The Sacred Places Podcast, I am joined by Jane Matthews, director of World Divination, teacher of intuitive arts, and author, for a rich conversation exploring the Ogham, Ireland’s sacred landscape, and the spirits that dwell within it.

Together, they explore the Ogham as the earliest Irish alphabet and its deep connection to trees, language, and the living land. Moving beyond symbols, this conversation invites listeners to consider what it means to listen to nature and recognize our own connection to it.

From there, the episode opens into the more mysterious aspects of Ireland’s spiritual landscape — including fairy mounds, land spirits, and the unforgettable presence of the banshee. Jane shares why these places and beings must be approached with respect, and I reflect on my own experiences with the fae, as well as my personal journey working with Birch and being guided by the natural world.

This episode is a weaving of story, symbol, and lived experience. It’s an invitation to deepen your relationship with the land and to explore what it means to be spirit-led in your practice.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:
✨ The Ogham and its connection to trees and ancient language
✨ Fairy mounds, land spirits, and Irish folklore
✨ The presence and meaning of the banshee
✨ Personal gnosis and being guided by the land
✨ How different places carry different spiritual energies

🔗 Learn more about Jane Matthews:
https://www.worlddivination.com
https://www.janematthewsmedium.com

This episode is edited by Jordan, a cohost for the Astro Study Room. Book an astrology consultation with her today!

Astrology with Jordan

Jordan's YouTube

Order my books to support me and support your connection with the land! https://www.elysewelles.com/books

Subscribe to Seeking Numina with Elyse Welles on YouTube for video versions of ALL episodes sharing footage of the places and topics discussed.

To learn more about my upcoming retreats to sacred places in Greece and beyond, or learn with me in workshops, classes, or mentorship, visit elysewelles.com.

Support Seeking Numina on Patreon for a library of 300+ rituals, meditaitons, exclusive videos, and more, + opportunities for free tarot readings and discounts on ALL classes and retreats. Visit patreon.com/elysewelles

Seeking Numina can also be supported via my Dashery merch shop.

Music: Tribal Wind - SergePavkinMusic
Music Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWe5Z7qISMQ