Danae Ashley

Becoming Fully Alive: A Pilgrimage of Healing, Meaning, and Joy

Episcopal Priest, Adlerian Psychotherapist, International Speaker, Voice Over Artist, and Author

Healing Conversation #1385

—  What does it mean to truly heal—not only mentally, but physically, emotionally, and spiritually?

Today, we explore healing as an inner pilgrimage, bringing together ancient spiritual wisdom and modern psychology to understand what helps us become whole again.

At the heart of our conversation is Hildegard of Bingen’s beautiful concept of viriditas—the “greening power” within us—and Alfred Adler’s teachings on belonging, courage, purpose, and our deeply relational nature.

We’ll explore what happens when we feel disconnected from that inner vitality, how our struggles may be pointing us toward something that needs attention, and why healing is about more than simply eliminating symptoms.

Danae talks about pilgrimage, creativity, spirituality, belonging, surrender, and the mind-body connection—and how each can become part of our journey back to ourselves. Perhaps healing isn’t only about repairing what has been wounded. Perhaps it is about allowing something within us to come alive again—to feel our sap rising and rediscover our natural capacity for growth, meaning, and joy.

Valeria sits with Danae Ashley  — She is the author of  “My Sap is Rising: A Pilgrimage of Holistic Mental Health Healing with Hildegard of Bingen and Alfred Adler.”

 The Rev. Danae Ashley is an Episcopal priest, Adlerian psychotherapist, international speaker, and voiceover actress in the Pacific Northwest. Danae uses art, music, drama, poetry, and movement in counseling, spiritual direction, and creation of ritual. She has written for various online publications, as well as being a contributor to podcasts, books, and producing a play about fertility struggle. Danae's book, My Sap is Rising debuted in March 2026. When not reading, writing, or speaking about Hildegard, you may find her traveling with her husband, making sure their rescue dog is living his best life, dancing with wild abandon to Celtic music, and singing serious karaoke.

Learn more Danae Ashley about and her work!