In this chapter, I set you up for your souling journey and what's to come in this book. Inspired by the analogy that we are like onions with layers to peel back, this chapter navigates through personal experiences, questioning and revelations that shape our understanding of the soul.

From foundational practices to profound insights into the soul's essence, and finally, actionable methods to connect with our innermost selves, this chapter is the beginning of a decade-long journey. Discover how spirituality, intuition, and various life experiences have contributed to a unique perspective on humanity and self-exploration.

Join me as we embark on this journey of self-discovery and souling, with journal prompts, mantras, and collaborative efforts to enhance our collective healing.

Whether you're ready to delve into your own soul or just beginning to ask fundamental questions about your true self, this episode offers a candid and transformative exploration of what it means to connect deeply with who we are and how the souling practice can begin.

If you'd like to get your hands on the paperback, you can head to https://souling.au and use the code: LISTENER to get 10% off at checkout.

Currently, there are more than eight billion souls walking the earth in human form. Throughout the entire existence of humanity, there have been an estimated 117 billion souls. You, my friend, are one of them, living and breathing on this earth. In our short lifetimes, we often focus on our bodies, but our bodies are much less important than our souls. This episode explores the essence of the soul, the precious energy that defines who we truly are.

Imagine buying a birthday present and focusing 99% of your energy on the wrapping paper and only 1% on the actual gift inside. This is what we do with our bodies. We're taught that the outside reflects our truth to the world, but the outside is merely the wrapper. Each of us is uniquely wrapped, a beautiful miracle of diversity. Yet, we spend so much time altering this outer layer and so little time nurturing our souls.

What if we chose to focus more on the inside? What if we spent time insourcing, feeling, breathing, expressing, and meditating? Imagine growing and adorning our souls instead of just our bodies. This chapter invites us to see each other as souls, not just skin. With 8 billion souls living and breathing right now, each one is equally important, and we are all connected.

Join me as we dive deep into our souls, leaving our bodies behind. Let's embrace the sky with our eyes, inhale wide open, and receive the universe's love. Take my hand, soul friend. Let's go swimming. Let's go souling together.

Head to https://souling.au to get your hands on the paperback, use the discount code: LISTENER to get 10% off at checkout.

Hi, I'm Natasha Ritz, the author of Souling. Today, I begin reading my audiobook to offer it for free online through various podcasting platforms, my website, and YouTube. This is the place I recommend you start.

A word of caution: this book contains strong language and discusses sensitive topics like sex, suicide, and mental health, which may not be suitable for everyone. Please ensure you are comfortable with these subjects before listening.

In this first reading, I start with the acknowledgements, expressing gratitude to the places and cultures that have shaped me. From the inspiration found in Ubud, Bali, to my South African roots, and my life in Aotearoa, I honor the lands and people who have influenced my journey. I also acknowledge my Jewish heritage and the spirituality it brings into my life.

Join me as I take you on a souling journey—a personal exploration of connecting with one's soul, embracing the myriad paths that lead us to self-discovery and fulfilment.

If you'd like to get your hands on the paperback, you can find it at https://souling.au. If you'd like 10% off at checkout, use the code: LISTENER