If I follow the moon cycles for my menstrual cycles, am I a bad Christian?
If I meditate or practice yoga to calm my body, does that separate me from God?
If my doula practices Reiki, am I inviting in dangerous energy?

In this episode, Maranda and theologian Janelle Lara tackle heavy questions that Christian women wrestle with as they seek holistic wellness and healing in the postpartum years. We explore new mothers' spiritual journeys and how alternative practices such as meditation, energy work & natural cycles can complement Christian faith and postpartum wellness.

Check out the episode on the blog:
https://postpartumu.com/postpartum-spirituality-and-the-taboo-janelle-lara-ep-188/

Connect with Janelle:
Janelle Lara is a Theologian who focuses primarily on the intersection between Alternative Spirituality and Christian Theology in her research. She enjoys sharing her studies and presenting her findings on her youtube channel, @janellemlara. She lives in Southeast Georgia with her husband and young children.

Janelle's YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/@JanelleMLara


TIMESTAMPS:
00:00: Introducing Christian perspectives on meditation, energy work, and body rhythms
02:12: Defining meditation in a Christian context
04:15: Historical role of women in spiritual practices
07:33: Christian concerns around energy work
09:05: Exploring Biblical teachings on meditation
11:47: Energy in the Bible: How does it fit?
14:50: Energy as God's creation
16:30: Aligning energy practices with faith
19:02: Prayer vs. meditation: A Christian comparison
21:20: Role of the Holy Spirit in energy and meditation
23:45: Rhythms of the body: Tuning into God’s creation
26:38: Misunderstandings around energy work in Christian communities
29:10: Importance of intent in spiritual practices
31:45: Meditation as a tool for restoring peace and connection
34:23: Christian meditation in everyday life
36:50: Embodying faith in a holistic way
40:17: Final thoughts on Christian meditation and energy

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