A pilgrimage of self-care

As I sit here, the wind still whispers tales of ancient Avalon, a gentle resonance of the energy lingering from yesterday's mini-pilgrimage to Somerset. The iconic silhouette of Glastonbury Tor against the sky has always held a certain magic for me, a silent invitation to ascend to the summit and St Michael's Tower, to soak in its ancient aura and connect with the powerful Michael and Mary energies that coil themselves around the Tor, the entwined dragon lines bringing together the masculine and feminine.

My afternoon climb of the Tor followed a delightful morning that blended the practical with the pleasurable – a mooching around Clarks outlet village on the hunt for bargains and a much-anticipated Chicken Katsu Curry at Wagamama’s.

It got me thinking. What is this deep-seated yearning within us that propels us to journey to certain places, whether they are steeped in legend or simply offering us a moment of respite? And what are the myriad ways these experiences shape who we are, leaving their indelible mark on our hearts, minds and souls?

For me, the call of Glastonbury is multifaceted. Perhaps it’s the whispers of the Arthurian legend, the eclectic mix of shops where you can buy crystals, books, magic wands, and all manner of esoteric gifts. Or the pull of the Tor, where the veil between worlds feels a little thinner on its slopes. Or the breathtaking panoramic views which reward you following the climb, where birds fly beneath you and you can view the world from a higher perspective. Every place holds a unique signature, some resonating so deeply with your inner landscape, offering solace, inspiration, or a sense of belonging. Glastonbury Tor, with its rich history and spiritual significance, has always felt like a pull for me. What makes you drawn to a particular walk, a café in town, or even a friend's home? What are those places for you, the ones that touch your soul?

Since the dawn of time, humans have been wanderers, driven by curiosity, necessity, and the desire to understand the world around them. Pilgrimages have been a cornerstone of many cultures, a dedicated journey to a place of spiritual significance for healing, enlightenment, or devotion. Even today, though our destinations may differ, the fundamental urge to seek something beyond our everyday remains. Then there is this allure of ‘thin places’, locations believed to possess a unique energy. For me, my thin places can be on the top of mountains or hills, or at sacred sites. Whether you subscribe to this idea or not, there is an undeniable sense of something in the air, a connection to something larger than oneself. Our intentions act as a compass, guiding our journeys. While my early visit and desire for retail therapy may simply have been a prelude to the afternoon's spiritual focus on the Tor, recognising our intentions illuminates why certain places hold such a strong appeal for us.

While I certainly did not have any intention of climbing Glastonbury Tor when I left home yesterday morning for my pilgrimage to the shops, following my lunch, I parked up in the centre of Glastonbury and cut through the Gauntlet to reach the main street. I popped into a few shops, but there was a real visceral pull to head out of town towards Chalice Well and the base of the Tor. I was not well equipped for this pilgrimage – no water, probably insufficient layers of clothing, and not the most sensible footwear!

However, the drive from within was so strong. On reaching the lane at the bottom of the path, I headed up to the White Spring and the pipe where the water spills out onto the road and dipped my hands into the cool, refreshing waters, rinsing my face and then washing my aura with the water.

I then crossed over the lane to where a pipe comes through the wall of the Chalice Well gardens and the water from the Red Spring flows down into a grill. Again, I splashed my face and then flicked the remaining water into my auric space. There were a few people about, but none batted an eyelid at what I was doing. This felt like a vital part of the pilgrimage, a physical and energetic cleansing and reconnection with the land's powerful energies.

I started my ascent up the Tor, and just then, the sun broke through the clouds, bathing me in its warm golden light – a small, perfect blessing on my journey. The path upward is a steep one, each step a deliberate effort, a slow, steady progress away from the everyday.

Reaching the summit and standing within the ancient tower, a delicate fragrance unexpectedly filled the air – the unmistakable scent of roses that instantly transported me back to my grandparents' garden, a space filled with love and the comforting presence of my ancestors. It felt like a gentle acknowledgement, a fragrant thread connecting my personal journey to the deeper roots of my lineage. It was a subtle yet profound sensory detail, adding a layer of unexpected beauty to the already potent atmosphere.

The usually expansive views towards the Bristol Channel were veiled in a soft, hazy mist, lending an ethereal quality to the ancient site. Despite the limited visibility, there was a palpable sense of energy, a feeling of being held in a sacred embrace. I felt very grounded on this lump of rock high above the Somerset Levels; there was some sort of tangible link to centuries past.

These sensory details weren't just background noise, they were integral to my experience, etching the memory deeper within me. Perhaps this morning's exploration of Clarks Village wasn’t just about finding a good deal; it was a way of grounding myself in the everyday before ascending to a more ethereal space. The satisfaction of a good purchase can be a small act of self-nurturing, preparing us in its own way for deeper experiences, and the familiar comfort of Wagamama’s provided a welcome pause, a moment of refuelling and grounding before the afternoon's focus that turned out to be the Tor. Having a delicious meal amidst the lively atmosphere offered a different kind of connection – a human one, a moment of shared nourishment before a more solitary, introspective experience.

My connection to Glastonbury went deeper than simply visiting the Tor and the springs. At the top, I took out my dowsing rods, curious to connect further with the land's energies. I asked them to guide me to a spot radiating healing energies. I watched as they swung, took me back through the centre of the tower, then around to the left, leading me to a particular place, where I sat down on the short grass and gazed out across the landscape. The rods had led me to the exact same spot where I had sat with a group of souls a few years ago on the summer solstice, feeling the strong Michael line flowing powerfully beneath us as we drummed. It was a profound reminder of the land's memory and its constant offering of energy. As I began my descent, a raven flew across my path, a fleeting messenger carrying ancient wisdom.

At the base of the Tor, I once again dipped my hands into the cooling waters of both the White and the Red Springs. As I walked back into town, others who approached me smiled, but their smiles came from the soul and touched me at that same level. No words were uttered as we passed by each other, but a palpable sense of connection.

Living with fibromyalgia often means our journeys, both literal and metaphorical, require a different kind of navigation. Our energy reserves might be more limited, our pain levels unpredictable. This makes intentional outings and mindful travel to places like Glastonbury Tor, with its powerful healing potential, a vital act of self-care.

For me, incorporating rituals like cleansing my hands in the sacred springs and dowsing for energy lines adds layers of intention and self-nurturing to the experience. And sometimes, indulging in a favourite meal even when dining alone instead of grabbing a sandwich provides a much-needed boost and a reminder to cherish the small joys. Connecting with nature, breathing fresh air, and immersing ourselves in a different environment, especially one charged with earth energy like the Tor, can be incredibly therapeutic for physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing.

The intuitive guidance of the dowsing rods led me to that familiar point of healing space on the summit where I once felt so connected with the Michael line. It felt like a tangible way to tap into the land's ancient wisdom. Each journey, no matter how big or small, adds a new layer to our personal story. The sun-kissed moments on the slow ascent, the misty veil over the ancient lands of Avalon, the aroma of roses connecting me to my ancestors, the powerful recognition and reconnection of the solstice drumming spot, the raven's flight on the descent and the cool touch of the spring waters, – these sensory and spiritual encounters deepen the narrative and leave a lasting imprint on our inner landscape. The resilience we cultivate in navigating life with fibromyalgia often enhances our appreciation for these moments of joy and connection, blending the everyday with the extraordinary in a pilgrimage of self-care that may have been impromptu and has meant today I am resting.

Ultimately, our desire to journey to specific places, especially those resonating with powerful energies, is a deeply human one, driven by the complex interplay of personal resonance, curiosity, and the search for meaning and connection. Whether it's the legendary heights of Glastonbury Tor or the comforting familiarity of a favourite shopping spot, the revitalising touch of sacred water, or the intuitive guidance of dowsing rods leading us to familiar pockets of energy, these experiences enrich our lives and weave a vibrant tapestry of memories. Let us embrace the call to explore, even in small ways, always listening to our bodies and choosing journeys that truly nurture our souls – true pilgrimages of self-care.

What are the places that hold a special significance for you? Have you ever had a moment of unexpected beauty or recognition that deepened your experience of a place? What rituals do you incorporate into your own personal pilgrimages? Share your experiences in the comments below. I would love to hear about them.

Unravelling the Earth's Energies

Ley Lines, Dragon Lines, Geopathic Stress and More – A Fibro Fighter’s Perspective

The Dragon at Kents Cavern

Hey Fibro Fighters! Jane here, and today we’re diving deep into the fascinating world of Earth energies. As someone living with fibromyalgia, I’m acutely aware of how our environment can impact our wellbeing. Understanding these subtle energies has become an integral part of my holistic approach to managing my symptoms and finding balance.

Have you ever walked into a place and just felt it? A shift in the atmosphere, a sense of calm, or perhaps a feeling of unease that you can’t quite put your finger on? I know I have, especially on those days when the fibro fog has rolled in. These sensations can often be linked to the Earth’s energy fields and exploring them has been a profound realisation for me.

Ley Lines - The Ancient Pathways, Modern Mysteries (and Alfred Watkins!)

Let’s start with ley lines. This term was popularised by an amateur archaeologist named Alfred Watkins from Herefordshire back in the early 20th century. He was studying old maps of the English countryside and noticed something remarkable: ancient sites like Stonehenge, Avebury, old churches, and standing stones seemed to line up in straight lines across the landscape. He proposed that these lines, which he called "leys," were ancient trackways or pathways used for navigation and trade. However, many now believe they represent something more: pathways of subtle energy, flowing through the Earth like acupuncture meridians in the human body. It’s as if our ancestors had an innate understanding of these energies, using them for sacred ceremonies and perhaps even healing.

These alignments aren't just random; they often connect significant places. What's even more fascinating is that these straight ley lines frequently have dragon or serpent energy lines interwoven along their routes, connecting significant points of interest and sacred sites as they weave across the landscape. This intertwining creates a powerful energetic network.

Two particularly notable examples, researched extensively by Paul Broadhurst and Hamish Miller, are the Michael Line and the Apollo/St. Michael Axis. Their work is documented in their insightful books, The Sun and the Serpent and The Dance of the Dragon, which are excellent resources for anyone interested in exploring these concepts further.

It's crucial to understand that while both relate to St. Michael energy, they are distinct

• The Michael Line is a straight ley line that enters Cornwall at Carn Les Boel and travels across the country to Hopton in Norfolk, connecting numerous sites dedicated to St. Michael. The associated dragon or serpent energy currents are often referred to as the Mary and Michael currents, reflecting the connection between St. Michael and Mary Magdalene at sites like Glastonbury Tor.

• The Apollo/St. Michael Axis is a direct ley alignment connecting sites associated with both Apollo and St. Michael. This axis represents a powerful energetic current associated with solar energy and light. The related dragon or serpent energy currents associated with this axis are often referred to as the Apollo and Athena currents, representing the balance of masculine (Apollo) and feminine (Athena) energies, wisdom, and divine inspiration. This axis also extends into mainland Europe, linking these energies to ancient deities and their associated qualities, highlighting the vastness of these energetic networks.

Now, let’s talk about St. Michael’s Mount, which is an incredibly important energetic node point within this wider network. A node point is like an energetic hub, where multiple ley lines and dragon currents converge and interact, creating a concentrated area of energy. Because of its strategic location and long history as a sacred site, St. Michael’s Mount acts as a powerful focal point, connecting the Michael Line, the Apollo/St. Michael Axis, and their associated Michael, Mary, Apollo, and Athena energetic currents. It’s like a major intersection on the Earth’s energy grid. A wonderful place to visit if you get the opportunity. This reinforces the idea that we’re all part of a larger interconnected web of energy, deeply connected to the Earth beneath our feet.

Dragon Lines - Unleashing the Earth’s Powerhouse (Distinct from Energy Lines!)

Now, let’s talk about dragon lines – and it’s important to distinguish these from general “energy lines.” Dragon lines are not the straight lines of leys. They are described as broad, undulating bands of energy, almost like rivers of energy flowing through the landscape. Think of them as the Earth's major arteries of energy. They have different layers or bands, each with its own unique quality, like a rainbow of energy and direction of flow. Some bands are considered more “masculine” (yang), associated with active, dynamic energy, while others are more “feminine” (yin), representing receptive, nurturing energy. Some people even perceive these bands as having different colours, each associated with specific qualities and energies. As someone living with fibro, I’m particularly sensitive to energy, and I can sometimes feel these lines as a subtle shift in the atmosphere, a tingling in my hands, a sense of expansion or a rather loud burp! It’s a powerful reminder that the Earth is a living, breathing entity, pulsating with energy.

And sometimes, these dragon lines manifest in truly remarkable ways. I recently had the incredible experience of leading a group of dowsers at Kent's Cavern. These caves are not only geologically fascinating, with stunning rock formations, but they also hold a palpable sense of ancient energy. What’s particularly fascinating is that the dragon lines within the cavern seem to flow through actual dragon-shaped rock formations. It was an amazing experience to dowse these energies and feel how they interacted with the unique geology of the cave. It really highlighted that while underground water lines certainly produce energy, there are so many other energetic phenomena to discover within the Earth. It reinforced for me that dragon lines are not just abstract concepts but powerful forces present in the landscape.

Energy Lines - Tuning In to the Earth’s Vibrations (A Broader Term)

The term “energy lines” is a broader way of describing any subtle energetic pathway in the Earth, encompassing both the straight lines of leys and the dragon currents (as I define them), as well as other energetic pathways, including those influenced by geological formations like we experienced at Kent's Cavern. As a dowser, I use tools like pendulums and dowsing rods to detect and map these lines and get a sense of the energetic quality of a space. It’s like tuning a radio to find the right frequency. This practice is also known as radiesthesia, which involves sensing and interpreting these energies.

It's also important to acknowledge the role of water in Earth energies. Water itself is a conductor of energy and can create its own energetic field. Underground water veins, for example, can contribute to geopathic stress. For those of us with fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions, this is especially relevant. Our bodies are already dealing with heightened sensitivity, and exposure to these energetic disturbances from water can sometimes exacerbate symptoms like pain, inflammation, and fatigue. It’s another example of how our environment can directly impact our wellbeing. Understanding these energy lines, including those related to water, can be incredibly valuable in creating supportive environments for us Fibro Fighters.

Geopathic Stress: When Earth Energies Feel Off-Key

And then there’s geopathic stress. This is where the Earth’s natural energies become disturbed, often by things like underground water veins, geological fault lines, or certain mineral deposits. Underground water, in particular, is a major contributor to geopathic stress. As water flows underground, it creates friction with the surrounding rock, generating an electromagnetic field. This field, along with other energetic disturbances from the water flow itself, can create what are considered detrimental lines of energy. These disturbances can create a distorted energy field that some believe can negatively impact human health.

For those of us with fibromyalgia, whose nervous systems are already on high alert, geopathic stress can exacerbate symptoms like pain, fatigue, brain fog, and sleep disturbances. It’s like adding extra static to an already overloaded system, making it even harder to find balance. This is a controversial topic within the scientific community, but many people, including myself, find that addressing geopathic stress can make a noticeable difference in their wellbeing.

How This All Relates to My Fibro and My Practice (and the Burping and Yawning!)

For me, understanding these Earth energies isn’t just an abstract concept – it’s a practical tool in my Fibro-fighting toolkit. And on a personal note, when I’m working with energy, especially clearing blockages or working with powerful energies like dragon lines, my body often responds with physical releases such as burping (or even yawning!). It’s totally normal, and if it happens to you, don’t worry!

• Dowsing for Detection: I use dowsing to identify areas of geopathic stress in my home, garden, and other places I spend time. This helps me create a more supportive and healing environment for my body. I also use it to locate energy lines and understand their flow, recognising how they intertwine.

• Energy Healing for Balance: I incorporate energy healing techniques to help balance my own energy field and mitigate the effects of geopathic stress. I also use these techniques in my practice to support other Fibro Fighters.

• Working with Dragon Lines: I’ve learned to connect with the positive energies of dragon lines, using them to enhance my own wellbeing and in my healing work. I find particular benefit in locating a healing spot, often near a standing stone or directly on a ley or dragon line, and simply placing myself in that space, whether sitting or lying down, to absorb the energies.

• Connecting with Nature: Spending time in nature, grounding myself by walking barefoot on the earth, hugging trees, or simply sitting quietly in a natural setting, has become an essential part of my self-care routine. It helps me reconnect with the Earth’s natural rhythms and restore balance to my energy field.

Practical Tips for You, My Fellow Fibro Fighters

• Pay Attention to Your Body: Notice how you feel in different places. Do you feel more energised or drained in certain areas? This can be a clue to the presence of different energy lines or geopathic stress.

• Ground Yourself Regularly: Make time for activities that connect you with the Earth, like gardening, walking in nature, or simply sitting outside.

• Explore Dowsing and Energy Healing: If you’re interested in learning more about these practices, feel free to reach out.

My Final Thoughts

Exploring the world of Earth energies has been a transformative experience for me, both personally and professionally. It’s helped me understand my own sensitivities, find new ways to manage my Fibro symptoms, and connect with the Earth on a deeper level. I truly believe that we’re all interconnected with the Earth in profound ways, and by tuning in to these subtle energies, we can find greater balance, healing, and wellbeing.

Sending you all love and light,

Jane Taylor The Holistic Fibro Fighter x

A Journey into the Heart of the Earth

I am Jane Taylor, having lived with Fibromyalgia myself, I have always sought out unique and transformational ways to manage my symptoms and improve my overall wellbeing. Let me share my journey and the tools I have discovered! Visit www.janetayloronline.com to explore my healing sessions, group gatherings and more!

Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to experience a Gong & Sound Bath within the ancient and mysterious Kents Cavern in Devon. This has undoubtedly become one of the most extraordinary moments of my life. I'm excited to share this experience with you and while it's taken me some time to find the right words, I hope it inspires you to explore the opportunities that present themselves in your own life.

A Historic Site

Kents Cavern, a historical landmark with protected status, is a network of ancient caves rich in archaeological treasures. Formed during the Devonian period, approximately 400 million years ago, the limestone cave system exudes a timeless and mysterious atmosphere. The air within the cavern is cool, damp, and imbued with a sense of ancient wisdom, creating a palpable energy that connects you to the very heart of the Earth.

If you haven't yet experienced the wonders of Kents Cavern, even without the added benefit of a gong bath, it's truly worth a visit. This fascinating cave system offers a glimpse into the lives of our ancient ancestors. People have been exploring the area or as it has been known, Kents Hole, since the Stone Age. The thick floors of the cave concealed the animal and human populations of the Ice Ages, preserving a wealth of archaeological treasures.

Over time, excavations have uncovered thousands of artifacts, including the remains of cave bears, woolly mammoths, cave lions, hyenas and even a fragment of human jawbone. Additionally, archaeologists have unearthed tools that provide valuable insights into the daily lives and activities of our ancient ancestors within the caves and the surrounding area.

A Special Invitation

My dear friend Sally, who has been a constant presence in my healing journey, invited me to join her at Kents Cavern on the Autumn equinox. I knew it would be a sacred and special occasion. Sally, a dedicated sound practitioner for over twelve years, possesses exceptional expertise in harnessing the power of sound. There was no way I would decline such an invitation to accompany her and the gongs for a unique experience of her playing in the caves.

A persistent headache had plagued me throughout the day, despite my attempts to alleviate it with pain medication. However, I was determined not to let my physical discomfort prevent me from pursuing experiences that enrich my soul. Upon arriving in Torquay, I noticed that the headache had subsided, and it completely disappeared as I entered the caves.

Exploring the Cavern

Once the seven-gongs were arranged, we prepared our comfortable nests for lying down or reclining, a process I often compare to birds building their homes. We then embarked on a short tour of the cavern, descending the slope towards the lower galleries. As I walked, I felt a profound connection to the Earth's energies within the cave system, a connection I'm eager to explore further in the future.

Furthermore, I even sensed an energy line, marked by a familiar burp as I crossed over it in one area and then again in another chamber known as the Rockies. This chamber, adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, also features a striking rock formation that resembles a dragon's head.

We ventured through the winding passages to the Cave Bears' den, where darkness descended upon us. The complete blackness was overwhelming, and in this chamber, scallop shells were discovered that our ancient ancestors may have used as candle holders, filled with animal fat. We then continued our exploration, visiting another exhibition area before returning to the entrance cavern, which housed the Hyenas' den and served as the location for the gong bath.

A Transformative Experience

There's something truly special and profound about being in this place and witnessing the extraordinary opportunity that I had been invited to participate in. It felt as though the stars had aligned for me on this occasion.

Once we had settled into our nesting spaces, the lights were dimmed, and the soft glow of candles illuminated the cavern. The ancient atmosphere was filled with a sense of wonder and reverence as I prepared for this special moment. Enveloped by 400-million-year-old-rocks that were once part of a tropical sea south of the equator, filled me with a deep sense of awe, privilege and connection to something so much bigger than myself.

Sally guided us to focus on our breathing before beginning to play. The first gong resonated throughout the cavern, enveloping me in its soothing vibrations and promoting a sense of relaxation. The sound penetrated deep into my being, easing my muscles and calming my mind, helping me to settle into the present moment.

Despite the cave's constant temperature of 14°C, I experienced alternating sensations of warmth and coldness during the gong bath, as if I were traveling through different time- periods, I would imagine that the ice ages were extremely chilly given how cold I seem to feel. This was a particularly intriguing aspect of the experience, adding to the surreal and otherworldly atmosphere of the cavern.

The Healing Power of Sound

The deep, resonant tone of the gongs seemed to permeate every cell of my being, creating a truly transformative experience. As the session progressed, a symphony of different gongs filled the space, offering a powerful yet soothing sound. At times, I closed my eyes, allowing myself to be carried away by the vibrations. At other moments, I gazed at the rock formations above, imagining different animals and faces. I felt transported on a journey, joining ancestors around a fire and even the sensation of being guided outside the cave, in a landscape covered by trees.

In addition to the gongs, Sally played a crystal bowl, large Tibetan bowls, a rain column, and her beautiful Koshis. I felt enveloped in a cocoon of music and sound. The unique acoustics of the cavern amplified the vibrations, sending them downwards and creating a truly immersive experience. I could feel the vibrations resonating on the very walls and floor of the cave, enhancing their healing properties. With Sally, it's primarily gongs, as she believes less is more and that there's no need for a multitude of instruments.

Reflection and Integration

A period of complete silence at the end of the gong & sound bath allowed me to integrate the sound and reflect on the profound impact it had on my mind, body, soul, and spirit. Lying on the cave floor with a yoga mat and a sheepskin rug, I felt a sense of deep humility and connection to the vastness of the universe. Time seemed to stand still, and suddenly, two hours later, Sally was guiding us out of the sound journey, ensuring our complete return to reality.

The most profound aspect of the sound healing for me was the deep connection I felt to our ancestors, the animals that once inhabited the cavern and Mother Earth herself. I was filled with gratitude for having the opportunity to participate in such a wonderful and unforgettable occasion. Beyond the physical sensations and transformative sounds, I also felt a heart-centred emotional connection, as if I were being embraced by the wisdom of the ages, held within the very walls of the cavern. The experience was so transformative that it took me several days to fully process the energy and integrate it into my being.

As I left the cavern and headed towards the car park, a Tawny Owl called out from the area above the caves, reminding me of the wisdom that can be gained through transformative experiences. I'm not sure if I'll ever be able to top this one, but who knows what the future holds! As I got into my car, I noticed that the dull pain of my headache had returned, a stark reminder of the profound healing space I had encountered in the past few hours.

About Jane Taylor

Jane believes in the power of seeking unique ways to support wellbeing. Her mission is to help individuals and organisations navigate their own journeys of transformation and growth.

Explore more www.janetayloronline.com

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More About Sally Free – Sounds For The Soul

Discover the transformative power of sound healing with Sally Free. Sally offers personalised and group sessions using gongs, Tibetan bowls, and more. Enjoy stress relief, improved sleep, and enhanced well-being. While sessions are not generally held in a cave, Sally's unique approach creates a deeply relaxing atmosphere.

Find out more www.soundsforthesoul.co.uk

Kents Cavern – Prehistoric Caves, Torquay, Devon    

Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Kent’s Cavern, a historic cave system with stunning acoustics and natural beauty. This captivating destination offers a variety of experiences, including Christmas carols and other events

Find out more www.kents-cavern.co.uk

A Final Note

My time at Kents Cavern with Sally and the other wonderful souls who shared the sound journey on that Autumn Equinox was truly unforgettable. The unique setting, combined with the powerful vibrations of the gongs, created a deep connection to all that has been, is, and will be. I am truly grateful to both the seen and unseen forces that made this possible. With love and blessings. Thank you.