Blog Archives
“Force of Nature” Sacred Tattoo Design
I had the opportunity to work on this sacred tattoo design with a client, which was an incredible and challenging process, one which I embraced and enjoyed immensely. Not only because of the symbolism I had the chance to work with, but because my client was such a joy and really supported the process with all that she shared with me in guidance.
It’s quite a large piece at 8″ wide and around 12 1/2″ in length, which was created as a cover-up to a small, older tattoo she already had at her sacral, which was comprised of three words. This new creation would now extend upwards and to the sides of the older tattoo, as well as extend slightly below it.
It will flow from the sacral area, up the spine, and likely come to rest mid-back or so.
The challenge was in incorporating several elements, as there were many my client resonated and aligned with and so I tuned in to the ones that were speaking more prominently for this particular design, area, and timing along her journey, and then needed to find a way to integrate them together.
What concluded in creation is what you see pictured here. It incorporates Roses, Lilies, Lotus, Japanese Maple Leaves, and a Goddess combination that incorporates the elements and essences of Hathor/Sekhmet, and Empress, Star, and Strength of the Tarot. It also speaks to my client’s Taurean energy, as well as incorporates how she is a “Force of Nature”.
Other elements include: duality into wholeness, the qualities of an Earthly and Divine creature combined, how my client leads from her heart (hand over heart in image), reaching for the Stars and the hope that Stars represent, centeredness, serenity and strength simultaneously from within, and done in an integrated, soft, subtle, and fresh Art Nouveau style that my client is drawn to.
If you take a closer look at the Goddess you will see that she has subtle horns from her head like Hathor, but made out of vines and flowers. Her hair and headdress fall in similar shape of Hathor’s headdress and her ears are made as the subtle ears of a cow, like Hathor’s, as well (if you look closely you’ll see their shape).
The aspect of Sekhmet is the stylized Lioness (created to mirror the vine work of the Temple around her, so it integrates “Above and Below”) that emerges from the blossoming Lotus (a quality my client feels she needs, as in a “Lotus that needs to bloom”), as well as is emerging from her solar plexus area. The Lioness and Goddess are connected and as one.
The Goddess is also the Empress birthing new life, surrounded in an abundant garden of flowers and vines that create a magickal Temple (connecting to the Stars) around her. Hovering above one hand is the magickal 7-pointed Faery or Pleiadian Star – gateway to the Otherworld, bringing in the Star Tarot, with a three other 7-pointed stars below. To the right you see a spiral vase (from the Star card) pouring water and the water turns into a petal of the Lotus (the water poured is to nourish the Earth and to continue the cycles, as well as represents spiritual, creative and intuitive abundance.
Hathor is also known as the Mistress of the Heaven and the Lady of the Stars. So the combination of Star in the Tarot and Hathor integrate.
Around her is a vine Temple that creates two sides coming together/entwining at top, as one. You find diamonds within a diamond, created by this union above her crown. The energy of the vines flow in feminine curves, but with fine points of focus. To either side are two Japanese Maple Leaves, which also resemble Stars and represent love, peace, and harmony.
I’m not going to go into the symbolism meaning of everything here, as many already know the symbolism, as well as can easily look it up if interested. But also, I think it’s fun to explore what feelings are evoked when you gaze upon the images and find how they speak to you. I mostly just like to point out some things that may not be seen immediately when taking in the whole design, which then lead to further symbolism meanings that are relative to the viewer, and even to the different times you look at it at different points along your journey.
But one link you may find interesting is on the sacred Trinity meaning of the Rose, Lily and Lotus (that I chose to incorporate), which you can find here: The Rose, Lily and Lotus: A Sacred Trinity of Flowers.
Everything within the design is integrated. As I mentioned, the water turns in the Lotus on the bottom right, and also on both sides you can see how the petals of the Lotus also turn into the shawl wrapping around the arms of the Goddess, as well as merge into the Lioness – all displaying the presence of melding energies within everything and of birthing creation from the source of one’s core/center where creativity is a choice in how we consciously engage and bring forth the energy.
It really is like a painting of my client’s own new personal Tarot card.
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred visionary piece of artwork or tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
There is currently a waiting list, which I am moving through as quickly as I can. I can only provide a guesstimate on timing. You can easily make your deposit at the link provided below to embark on this journey in partnership with me.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
To enjoy a visual journey of some of the sacred tattoo designs I’ve had the honor and privilege of co-creating, please visit: Spiritual Skin for my YouTube video.
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle format here: Spiritual Skin
You can also order your personal copy here: Signed and Inscribed Copy of Spiritual Skin
Sacred Tattoo Designs with Dual Symbolism Superimposed – Whale/Butterfly & Scarab/Earth Mother Goddess
I had the opportunity again to work with one of my cherished clients and friends, Mari. You may remember her from my post “An Inside Look At One Soul’s Sacred Tattoo Experience – Mari’s Journey with ‘Spiritual Skin‘”. It’s been so incredible working with her as she creates her own soul’s journey through sacred body art that speaks to her unique soul essence. We’ve created several pieces together and I was excited to work with her again to create a couple more, which are today’s highlights.
As always, I marvel at the divine timing and what aligns with the process when creating these sacred pieces. It’s always so beautiful when direct messages, confirmations and support come through, as with the recent Incan tattoo designs I created, when Moth showed up to chime in with her wisdom in agreement. The designs also seem to be aligned with Reiki workshops I teach, which then also adds to the potency of the energy imbued within the designs, as well as align with astrological influences like the Moon phases, Cardinal Cross, and other intensified energies.
I’ve been following my client wait list in order, but arrived at working on Mari’s in beautiful synchronicity. Her designs were also graced with these types of energetic influences, as I had begun the first of the two the day before teaching a Reiki 3 Master Teacher Workshop for which I was preparing. I thought that very appropriate and empowering for the essence of this “ring” we were co-creating. More on it below.
Silvery gray of whale shining in the sun at center/top, as she surfaces and spouts
And right as I had begun the second piece for her foot, I was called to take an ocean-side break and was immediately upon sitting down to relax on the beach and read, met by a mother Grey Whale and her baby swimming by, which was so supportive and inspiring, not to mention confirming for the piece that included Whale wisdom in it.
Here you can see a whale watching boat, as well as leisure boat have spotted the whale and her baby, as they move. Whale is in front of the left boat where you see the mist of her spout and darker body surfacing
Not long after, a large pod of Dolphins also came through and I just felt in the flow once again and also knew that the feelings and visions I was receiving from them were to be captured in the piece. More on that below as well.
So it was another interesting and beautiful journey, to say the least, in co-creating these pieces and I’m grateful for the energies the Universe aligns me with, in guiding support during the process.
Since I just shared the Whale images (although not all that great of photos), I thought I’d first share on the foot design that incorporates Whale energy.
When I saw Whale on Saturday it reminded me of that powerful day, just a few weeks back that I blogged about, when the whales were bursting through the waters and jumping and splashing and just in total joy and bliss.
I felt that a Whale (which Mari was wanting incorporated into the design) that is not just one swimming through the seas of experience, but one that is penetrating the very veils of illusions with pure joy of authenticity from heart, was to be. The Whale depicted in this piece is thrusting in joy through the ocean’s surface, but also penetrating the veils between Earth and Cosmos, between self and other, consciousness and unconsciousness – bringing a knowingness and beingness of both at once.
Whales are cosmic beings that use their abilities to communicate through sound and message us about our true origins and authenticity. For more on Whale symbolism please visit: Whale Song
But if you look very closely, you will see that Whale is also a Butterfly. For more on Butterfly symbolism you can visit: Butterfly Messengers.
See how Whale’s tail fins are the body of the Butterfly and body is the larger part of her wing, and fin makes up part of her lower wing. I created a spherical shape, but organic in nature with use of flowing water, spirals, energy, leaves and Plumeria (as my client had seen this as a healing Mandala and I also saw it as a portal or gateway).
There are two planets to the right, or could be a Full Moon and Sun. I also felt called to include a simple version of the Hunab Ku to demonstrate the Galactic nature of this piece in harmony with Earth – a return to natural harmony within and without. Hunab Ku is also known as the Galactic Butterfly, which is what is created here both as this more organic Butterfly with Whale as part of her shared essence of her wing AND as the Hunab Ku cosmic essence Butterfly.
Air and Water elements being highlighted a bit more, along with Spirit yet with an Earth connecting factor. Mari already has a lot of Fire and Earth and with a serpent on her right leg, this felt very balancing on her left foot where it will go.
I immediately had mentioned to Mari that I was sensing this sort of Polynesian, Mayan, Cosmic quality to the design and that is what I feel manifested. I was also receiving Plumeria as inspiration and when I looked into more of what it symbolized, I realized why.
Plumeria symbolism includes natural beauty, charm, grace, new life, new beginnings, creation and recreation, the Sun, perfection of all things as is, dedication, devotion, love, immortality, healing powers, liveliness, life and birth. They span many cultures in their symbolic meaning and reverence including being very important to both Hawaiian and Mayan cultures 🙂 , but also Hindu, South Indian, Buddhist, Chinese, Vietnamese, etc…
So there is so much celebration of life from the heart of hearts here. And I see it as a gateway she will walk forward into with each step, bringing in a new, vibrant, joyous energy that is birthing with all the shifts and upcoming newness in her life. It is a beautiful new layer of the onion, so to speak, revealing more of her deep personal frequency that is of and beyond this world, which many may not have seen of her yet. Very powerful, but in a gentle and beautiful way of grace and flow. It is centered, but organic in nature and can bring the experience of always feeling centered no matter how things are flowing outside – movement with cycles rather than with a rigid plan. There’s also a sense of abundance and true joy as she activates her Galactic “Nature” even more.
Then we move on to the second which is created to be worn as a ring – a wedding band so to speak that celebrates the sacred union with self. Being a ring, it is done in very simple and clear lines (open design line work) – like the henna work I have on my own hand and fingers. Fingers and hands are tricky in being able to ink and how they will wear over time. So it is best to keep them simple and defined.
This design, like the Whale/Butterfly is dual in nature as well, which was tricky. I had immediately for this piece been feeling Egyptian and Earth Priestess/Divine Feminine energy, and that is what is represented.
It took me a while to get the right design that would work dualistically, but also be very simple, yet potent. But it happened and what came through was the energy of the Scarab and the Earth Mother Goddess (Gaia).
For more on Scarab symbolism please see: Sacred Scarab
Within the design at top is a simple Lotus that has a bit of an Egyptian flair to it. I created 3 dots around it, sort of providing a subtle Henna quality, but can also represent the Trinity, Triple Goddess energy, the Maiden, Mother, Crone, etc.
Now if we skip below that and you look at center of the band, there is a simple heart-like design (felt very important to have all things come and stem from the/her heart). This heart acts dually as the body of the Scarab and the body of the more primitive Earth Mother Goddess design. To the left and right are the wings of the Scarab that create the band and will come to a point at back under the finger. I kept them simple but they are spread open to produce freedom energy. They also balance the Scarab/Goddess.
Below, coming just slightly down over knuckle into hand, is a design that could be both a leaf (to draw energy in and be the grounding Earthiness, as well as root of the Lotus), but can also be another set of wings (as the mirror to each other) that have come to rest together creating hands in prayer position, much like that centering at heart we do in meditation, and in receiving and giving blessing and honoring to self and others (Namaste).
Above the heart design is the stylized head of the Scarab, as well as the Goddess. Coming out on both sides are the Scarab’s legs, but also the Goddess’s arms stretched above holding the Sun Disk (Source within her and representative of the Great Central Sun). This reflecting connection to it, honoring of it, and always walking in the reflection and grace of the truth within that Source.
It’s a small piece, but amazing what can be achieved with just the right tweaks. The ring band will sit where a band would usually, with the lower leaf/wings coming down into hand a bit (balancing a design she already has moving up the hand on the right), and reaching past the first finger knuckle to create an elongated design down part of the length of her finger, coming to rest in between the two top knuckles.
Really grateful to support Mari with her beautiful journey. And it looks like we will be partnering again down the road soon. So stay tuned for more with Mari and me. 🙂 I love that I finished writing this at 11:11 am here.
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred visionary piece of artwork or tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
There is currently a waiting list, which I am moving through as quickly as I can. I can only provide a guesstimate on timing. You can easily make your deposit at the link provided below to embark on this journey in partnership with me.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
To enjoy a visual journey of some of the sacred tattoo designs I’ve had the honor and privilege of co-creating, please visit: Spiritual Skin for my YouTube video.
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle format here: Spiritual Skin
You can also order your personal copy here: Signed and Inscribed Copy of Spiritual Skin
Wolf Trinity Sacred Tattoo Design
I always enjoy the process of creating sacred tattoo designs with people and this latest one was nothing short of sheer pleasure to channel.
The energy is really such a pure essence of gentle, but powerful strength that comes from the courage of heart within.
The focal energy was my client’s Wolf Guardian and Spirit Walker, but then, as always, other energies come into play after I feel into things and what has been spoken and unspoken within the sharing between us.
This brought on the energy of 3 or the Trinity to incorporate through the Triple Goddess energy of Maiden, Mother, Crone, as aspects of my client through her Wolf Guide. They also tie into the Moon phases, which she is also very linked to, as well as symbolize Earth, Underworld and Heavens. These represent parts she is bringing together and integrating, as well as bringing forth in her service role in the world.
These parts are being honored as unique aspects, but also as a synergy of the union together they create and are needed to create – so each Wolf has her own individual strength within their own respect of solitude, but woven together in the web of life, as well as the pack they run in.
The upper left is the Maiden aspect depicted as a younger white Wolf pup representing a Star Child, hence wearing American Indian markings on her face of a shooting star around her eye that merge into feathers almost like a love tear drop (Earth and Cosmos connected – Star Child come to Earth). She is a free-spirit, in tune with her self-expression, creative wonder, exuberant joy, innocence, enchantment, new ideas and enthusiasm, and represents new beginnings and fresh perspectives. Her creativity also shown by her star marking.
To the upper right is the Mother aspect depicted by the mature Wolf howling at the Moon. She is in tune with the cycles of life, has come into her own, connected with her authenticity she is voicing passionately through clarity of her voice and what she has to communicate, has a soulful connection from her core that she is moving through her in service. She is about abundance, growth, gaining of knowledge and fulfillment on all levels.
And at the bottom, anchoring the three is the Crone aspect depicted by the older white Wolf. She represents wisdom, centeredness, balance, harmony from within, inner peace, powerful presence, knowingness, complete faith and truth, stillness of heart, shadow/darkness embraced. Interwoven in her beautiful bushy flowing tail is the word “trust” integrated as her fur.
At top is a Crescent Moon with parting thin veils of clouds that turn into feathers. To the right, almost looking like a bird emerging, and below that almost like a figure of a person or angel that becomes the larger feather that ends at a spiral tip. The feathers for freedom and flow. The clouds are parting to reveal clarity from the illusions of the veil and embracing the shadow revealed.
At center, an ethereal/cosmic star (felt Faery as well) of enlightenment with hexagon symbolism of soulful integration and all that the number 6 symbolism stands for – truth, union, harmony, balance, equality, integration, perfection, lovers, conjoining, communication, dependability, reliability.
I then dusted some ethereal feathers throughout that are floating/gliding down from the heavens with little stars dusted throughout and American Indian organic shapes into a spiral.
It’s just one of those pieces that moves your heart. At least, I know it did for me and I so flowed in enjoying to bring this energy to life for a special soul. <3
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred visionary piece of artwork or tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
There is currently a waiting list. You can easily make your deposit at the link provided to embark on this journey in partnership with me.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
To enjoy a visual journey of some of the sacred tattoo designs I’ve had the honor and privilege of co-creating, please visit: Spiritual Skin for my YouTube video.
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle format here: Spiritual Skin
You can also order your personal copy here: Signed and Inscribed Copy of Spiritual Skin
Marriage of Divinity – A Walk Between Worlds Inca Sacred Tattoo Designs
It has been a very event-full 10 days or so with all of the astrological influences and potent energy swirling. There’s been a lot going on and shifting here and as always, it seems to align with potent sacred tattoo designs I’m working on that really stir up and activate energy into motion.
It’s also been really hot here for this time of year and for being near the coast – 95 degrees for the last few days with warm Santa Ana winds. I’ve actually enjoyed it, as I’m always cold 🙂 and it provided me good reason for a late afternoon beach stroll a few days ago (bringing Dolphin and Osprey magick into my experience), but it has definitely been part of the interesting energetic influences.
Alongside quite a bit going on (which is why the process of these tattoos has been on its own timeline and is taking a bit longer to get through them than usual), one of the things experienced here has been the opening of a portal at the house that created access to another parallel timeline happening in this house. This was something both Joy and I have been in the midst of and it became obvious that a few things were the reason for this opening, one being my channeling and creating these sacred pieces you see featured here – hence the title that not only reflects the designs created, and my Inca painting, but also of what my experience has been in living in different realities at once.
These symbolic designs are very connected to collective energy, as well as the individual energy they are being created for. They act as activation keys and do shift things on many levels, especially when aligned with other energetic influences, the symbols being worked with, the intentions and energy behind them, and where I am at in the process of creating them too.
It’s a very potent process that can’t be explained in a way that may make sense to most people, but it undoubtedly is experienced. So needless to say, a slip-through took place here that brought down veils between timelines and it actually affected my rabbit incredibly, who acts as a guardian to our own gateway here. We had to work to create a boundary to the timeline opening so that we could ground and balance things here, which involved energetic work and calling upon a Guardian associated, synchronously, with these designs. It’s a tricky thing to be living and moving forward in a different reality being created, but still being in the one here, which does need a balance of boundaries maintained. Powerful stuff!!
And now these pieces will be personal portals for my client to access parts of him and to activate new experiences he desires to create.
Anyway, it’s always so interesting to see how these designs come to be and I was so grateful to be working with the powerful energy of the Ancient Incas for my client. It wasn’t since my painting, “A Walk Between Worlds” that I had been so focused in these energies and it seems so perfect since I have been working on the upcoming sacred journey to Peru for this year and my client is also going to Peru in a couple months for his first time.
I love the journey of how these designs come together. It’s as if the stories they have to share, write themselves by my tuning in to their essence.
The messages are collectively woven, although personal, since they contain collective symbolism that will speak to each in a unique way beyond what words can say.
It’s always too hard to try to explain the energy of the pieces and as I’ve shared many times, I do prefer to have them reflect whatever you pick up from them, but I do provide some pointers in intention.
These are actually two separate, but cohesive design pieces created for my male client who will be wearing one each on both of his inner forearms from wrist to crease of elbow. The Chakana will be on the outside of the inner forearm, half way wrapping so that a half is on the face of the inner forearm when arm is held with palms facing up. And when the two forearms are brought together, each of their halves will create a new, unified, and integrated Chakana, as well as a whole story that they are each integral to.
I won’t detail all of the symbolism of every aspect of the design, but the essence focuses are that of being present, focused, aware, fearless, free-flowing, openness, transparency, authenticity, love without restrictions, surrender, higher mind and heart, transmutation, activation, connection with nature spirits, earth, and cosmos, integration of shadow, and balancing organic sensuality, flow, and instinct of life with higher mind consciousness and clarity within the sacred geometry present.
The left design is for the right arm, which is connected to male energy, but working with the Divine Male. The right arm contains Jaguar, Serpent, Chakana, Moth, small Seed or Flower of Life symbolism, Tumi – Sun God/good luck, DNA double helix, organic leaves turning into spirals, Sun wheel portal in Chakana, stars and planets, pyramid design like a sacred eye within, and radiating energy like wings.
The right design is for the left arm, which is connected to the female energy, but working with the Divine Feminine. The left arm containis Condor, Hummingbird (Nazca symbol), Chakana, Inca Star within it with a labyrinth portal center, organic leaves turning into spirals, Calla Lily, Full Moon, stars and planets, Seed or Flower of Life symbolism, radiating energy like wings.
The left arm has the energy flowing “in” and up through the wrist, as with feminine energy, we receive. The right arm has the energy flowing “out” through the serpent, as with male energy it is action of what is guided by the feminine. But I also have some energy flowing up and down on each, to create balance when in that Divine space where each does actually have its own way of giving and receiving.
I was drawn to create a Star Chakana for the Divine Feminine side. The symbol is of an Inca Star I came across in researching and then added a spiral center portal to it. I love how the middle is like a labyrinth of life that winds and spirals, but the effects are clear and focused as the points of the star in all directions of life. I wanted the star to be balanced with male energy, and the points and precision feel like that to me, but the spiral center adds that the source of guidance and direction to the focused male come from the female core. I did add the Full Moon on that arm, as it speaks to new beginnings and the Divine Feminine in its wholeness, while flowing with the cycles of life.
I was drawn to create a Sun Chakana for the right to balance the Moon energy, but to equal the Star energy, as the Sun is also a Star, but a different essence of one. It lies center of our Solar System. And I wanted this sun to have an organic feminine feel to balance the male energy of it, hence the softened petal like flames and a portal center. At the very center there is another small Sun, which to me represents the individual’s inner core Sun that burns from within the vortex of you and the center of the Solar Plexus to bring forth.
Hummingbird completed the Serpent, Jaguar, Condor energy my client was drawn, of the four directions. And the Nazca Hummingbird (Nazca symbols were something my client was drawn to) was perfect to bring a bit of native beauty with an otherworldly feel to that upper area that is very higher consciousness.
Calla lilies symbolize purity, sensuality, resurrection, chastity, virtue, abundance, elegance, grace, and magnificent beauty.
I positioned the 4 animals – Serpent, Jaguar, Hummingbird, Condor, in their realms. (as you see in my painting “A Walk Between Worlds” I linked above). The serpent carries the DNA strand, which is activating a transformational shift at the core, into more of my client’s empowered wholeness in mirror to the shifting energy experienced and being integrated/embodied collectively – helping to bring him into a higher version of himself.
Moth I found on the tree in backyard
The Moth at the top of the left arm came to me out of nowhere and I was waiting to confirm it was to go in this design, but I had felt it strongly and had been guided she was for my client. I just knew. Then, just two evenings ago, I went out back for a moment of fresh air after working on the designs and on the tree in the yard a giant Moth appeared. It was so big! Like nearly three inches and I got chills knowing it was a guide for my client that had come to support the process, and indeed wanted inclusion in the piece. And so I created a magickal Moth at the top with a flower of life below it and its wings in motion of fluttering, which is creating the waves of energy and activation.
Moths are nocturnal. They symbolize dreams, shadows, otherworldliness, secret knowledge, higher awareness, psychic awareness and enhancement, inner knowing to navigate through the darkest hours of our lives, faith in uncertain shadowy times, vulnerability, determination, wise and balanced use of concealment – blend in when necessary and adjust and adapt when needed, attraction, subtlety and subtle allure, intuition, determination, navigation by lunar energy and light (feeling), vigilance in following your path of light, keeping your vigilance, adjusting your course accordingly to indications sensed rather than drive forward without heeding signs…
I wanted both arms each to have some mirroring qualities, to connect them, which is apparent in the design. And they are a marriage of organic, Earth, nature and flow with otherworldly, Cosmic, clarity of focus, and consciousness. Some masculine and feminine aspects can be found within each, for balance and integration, although have a central focus of energy.
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred visionary piece of artwork or tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
There is currently a waiting list. You can easily make your deposit at the link provided to embark on this journey in partnership with me.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
To enjoy a visual journey of some of the sacred tattoo designs I’ve had the honor and privilege of co-creating, please visit: Spiritual Skin for my YouTube video.
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle format here: Spiritual Skin
You can also order your personal copy here: Signed and Inscribed Copy of Spiritual Skin
My Sacred Tattoo Symbolism – A Triple Rabbit, Full Moon, Ogham & Cosmic Vortex Portal
Today I was inspired to share a bit more on my last sacred tattoo (as promised) that I had created on my skin a couple of months ago. It felt like a good time, given my rabbit companion, Joy (who is one of the 3 depicted rabbits in it), has been going through some energetic stuff since yesterday and it feels connected to shifts and portal openings.
I love all of my tattoos, but this one is extra special to me for invoking the intended energy I desire to embody.
The image is of the triple rabbit symbolism, but in a more organic design with each rabbit having a unique personality and otherworldly/human quality. They are layered over a Full Moon, which they are circling round, and that is spinning out of a Cosmic Vortex, exploding with tiny magickal stars. And inside the center sits a sacred Ogham tree letter that holds layered meaning as well.
All of my tattoos are done in black and shades of gray, but this is the only tattoo that we added white to, which resonated when my tattoo artist asked what I thought of that. This is a special piece in many ways so pixie-dusting it was just the touch of enchantment it needed.
As I mentioned in my previous post when I first revealed this tattoo, the area where it now lives and breathes had also shown up in a dream sequence experience where I had received an implant underneath the skin that felt to be preparing the energy. Interestingly, the implant was a shiny silver-shaped disk, which would mirror the shape of the Full Moon that now resides there.
I won’t be able to explain all of the meaning this has for me and how I use it, however I can share about some of the elements of the design symbolism, which will give an insight to its energy. Of course the placement on the right arm also has its meaning and it wonderfully balances my left arm, Magick Dragon with Runes and Pentacle. But for now here’s an exploration of the design symbolism of my last sacred tattoo.
The Triple Rabbits Symbolism:
I realized how perfect the Triple Rabbit Symbol was for me, even more than just the connection and resonance I’ve had with it for some time now, when I realized I have had 3 Rabbit friends in this life. I had always loved and been drawn to the symbol and would have loved to have it tattooed on me, but didn’t know if it would actually come to be, as I follow the energetic guidance I feel when getting new tattoos. I actually thought I was done tattooing myself on my last tattoo, but I was gifted this symbolism I have held dear for a long time, as my celebratory closure. Indeed a gift! The three Rabbits I have had in this life included, Twinkie – the first and only had him for a summer when I was about 12 years old. He is the only male animal companion I’ve personally ever had. Then there was of course Nestor, and now Joy.
The Triple Rabbits (or sometimes known as the Triple Hares) are so powerful and represent the Trinity. Each of the ears are shared by two Rabbits, but only three ears are shown.
Rabbits are symbolic of rebirth, luck, prosperity, creativity, quick-thinking, self-sacrifice, high fertility of mind, body, and emotion, agility, receptiveness, and speed, to name a few things. They herald a kind of waking life resurrection and a realization of increased vitality, energy, or a new-found excitement over life. Creativity is also a form of fertility and of ripening, fresh ideas so Rabbits can bring a message of nurturing your intuitive impulses and nudges from your heart and soul.
Rabbits/Hares are powerfully profound in their transmutational energies. The Ancients found them one of the most mysterious and perplexing beings, thought to be hermaphrodites (male one month and female the next), with powers of self-impregnation. Since they reflect the idea of balance between masculine and feminine they are highly regarded as sacred, mediators of the sacred, and embodying actual creative powers of the Universe.
Rabbits are also associated with the Moon, lunar cycles, and cyclical life, are considered creatures of fire – the “Sacred Fire” that is the same regenerative fire of the Phoenix – thus destruction and recreation of the heart of all life. They are connected with the dawn, enlightenment, Spring, the Cosmic Egg from which the Cosmos is produced, and embody balance, creative potency, eternity, androgyny, genius, and inspiration.
Moon Symbolism:
And speaking of the Moon, she has her own amazing energy and symbolism that adds to this magickal piece I wear on my skin. I have the Moon also represented over my Heart Chakra on my back, depicted by the Mayan Moon Goddess, Ix Chel, with her consort the Rabbit. This design just so happened to turn out to look like me when it was created, which was great as it was to represent myself and Nestor. But it was a symbolic depiction of the Moon rather than an actual representation.
Now I have both. 🙂
The Moon is considered a luminary, although produces no light of her own. She reflects the Sun’s light, which mirrors her image to us. In this way of projecting light, she symbolizes the subtlety of how we may gain clarity and indirectly receive insight, and how we can soften our gaze to access esoteric meaning.
The Moon also symbolizes cycles, the shadow, mystery, wonder, balance, renewal, time, emotions, the subconscious, intuition, fertility, femininity, transition, passivity, perception, receptivity, the night, nocturnal creatures, illumination…She is connected to the element of Water (mother of all sea creatures as well) and is ruled by the sign of Cancer.
Alchemical teachings share that the Moon is connected to Silver, which carries the symbolism of clarity, purity and brilliance that the Moon so beautifully exudes. Since Silver is one of the 3 metals that are the foundation of the Prima Materia, this makes the Moon part of the Trinity of transformation.
She is also associated with Kuan Yin, the Virgin Mary, Thoth, Diana, Artemis, and Hecate, to name a few of her archetype associations.
Full Moon Symbolism:
Each of her Phases (which represent immortality and eternity) also have significance and being that my tattoo depicts a Full Moon, I will just concentrate on that symbolism here which includes new beginnings, our wholeness, self-realization coming full circle, bringing things to light, releasing what no longer serves you, restoration, good for receiving the fullness of your creative abundance, being at the height of your personal power, experiencing illuminated clarity, and the ability to manifest dreams and intentions.
Ogham Tree Letter Symbolism:
I was first going to have a full word written out to represent “Rabbit” in Ogham, but it wouldn’t work with the design. It was meant to invoke further, the energy incited. I then realized that it was because a more potent and multi-layered symbolism was meant to replace it, and through synchronous research, was led to how that was to unfold.
I started researching the connection of “Rabbits” with Ogham and Celtic symbolism, which is what felt to resonate for this arm, also given I wear Gaelic and Ogham on my right forearm (the same arm) connected with Nestor (my beloved and departed Rabbit companion before Joy). It led me to the information explaining its roots and symbolic “wisdom of the trees”. Then I read that there are animals closely related to each tree of the Ogham.
And then it hit me that the actual tree/letter would be more magickal, and not only that….it would perfectly fit into the design at center! I love how that works. 😉
So the symbol in the middle of the Rabbits and at center of the Full Moon of my design is the Ogham for the tree Gorse/Ohn/Onn – or “O” which resides there. Gorse is connected to the planet Venus and the element of Earth.
I found that Rabbits are connected to Gorse (sometimes called Furze) or Ohn/Onn – the letter “O”. The Gorse bush interestingly is associated with the Sun, because of its yellow flowers full of nectar and pollen that open in March around the time of Spring Equinox with a very long flowering season) and is associated with the color yellow gold. I found its association with the Sun interesting, almost like that wholeness and integration of duality, since Rabbits are connected with the Moon, and yet are also connected to Gorse/Sun.
This, to me, feels like coming full circle, just as Rabbits run full circle with the Moon’s cycle (and running around the Moon literally on my arm lol). And it’s also like how they are hermaphrodites and birth the cosmic egg – both male and female. It also represents that coming to self-realized wholeness, which the Full Moon also symbolizes – a perfect closing tattoo to my “Spiritual Skin” indeed.
And here’s a bit more on the symbolism of Gorse:
Light, vibrancy, protection (Gorse has thorns), intelligence, independence, industry.. are just some of the words for it. Gorse is considered a “light seeker” of the higher road by the Druids and is opportunistic (associated with the Bee) as well as creates distance in order to begin a new colony that is free to have more sun without crowding – hence independent and that leaping out (like Rabbits do) on our own to create/blaze our own trail away from conformity.
This “Bee” association is particularly of interest, as a few weeks I had come home to find a swarm of Bees inside the house all congregating at the windows and sliding glass doors. Later to find that a hive was in the chimney and these Bees were likely relocating their colony, but somehow decided to swarm inside the house rather than leave the way they had come in. Yes, a powerful symbolism to have them in my personal space and experience, and quite symbolic of creating a “new, freer, and more illuminated” life. It also speaks to making sure our inner energy is blooming even when the external environment is bleak.
Gorse is a determined plant that always comes back – which represents perseverance and hope – two things I have tons of and am always happy to be empowered with more of. It also has been used as a protective barrier and can be shaped into a broom to sweep negative influences away.
Gorse represents what you’ve been looking for is right around the corner, to keep pursuing goals because they are within your reach, and helps to figure out the direction of your journey to the destinations intended. Magickally it speaks to your spiritual journey, especially if asked to take the role of a leader, providing you with an abundance of gifts to share with others.
It says to you, “the time is now”.
Sometimes called Furze: Onn (Uhn) symbolizes knowledge of poetry and wisdom/foolishness. Ohn/Eloquence. Furze is popular in pagan fertility rites, blooms throughout year, is plentiful in pollen and nectar, and smells of honey. The flowers are visited by the first Bees of the season and the bruised shoots provide food for the horses. Rabbits eat Gorse/Furze and are protected by the thorns. In spring, Furze is set afire to burn away the gold growth and make room for the new. Furze symbolizes a gathering together and a skill at collecting elements needed for a goal. Also signifies information that could change your life.
So Furze is the gathering together of sweetness in your life. The things you value. A time to get busy like the Bees. There’s those Bees again. 🙂
Physical symbolism: Your search is over. You will find what you are seeking. Continue towards your goal.
Mental symbolism: Share your knowledge, as the Bee shares pollen and nectar gathered from the Furze.
Spiritual symbolism: There is an abundance of blessings in your spiritual voyage, so do not hoard them all to yourself. Share with others, you will be rewarded.
I SO LOVE the symbolism that is embodied in this sacred design and it’s all created within a swirling vortex of Cosmic Stars – the totality of which is one magickal portal. And since integrating this creation into my life, I have very much been experiencing all that it was meant to bring more of into my life and I definitely can also see how I’ve but scratched the surface to where this portal leads. I’m in gratitude and honor of it and am welcoming the journey, where ever it takes me.
I love that I finished writing this post at 12:12 pm. 🙂
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred visionary piece of artwork or tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
There is currently a waiting list. You can easily make your deposit at the link provided to embark on this journey in partnership with me.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
To enjoy a visual journey of some of the sacred tattoo designs I’ve had the honor and privilege of co-creating, please visit: Spiritual Skin for my YouTube video.
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle format here: Spiritual Skin
You can also order your personal copy here: Signed and Inscribed Copy of Spiritual Skin
Wisdom of Balance & Divine Grace – “Visions” of a Sacred Tattoo Design
It’s always a joy to work with unique individuals from across the globe, in helping to bring forth “visions of the soul” through sacred art. I’m so honored to be able to connect on this intimate level and I take it to heart how important the work is that is being shared and channeled between us and the Divine.
This sacred tattoo design, I just completed last week, was a fun morphing process that felt very tied into shifts and energies related to the Total Lunar Eclipse and approaching Cardinal Cross that translated personally for my client and of course, for my own ability to tune in, in relation to that.
The design is one created to sit on my client’s right shoulder blade, balancing a tattoo already worn on her left shoulder blade. I created an overall shape that would compliment and balance what is already there and that was more Divine Feminine in essence to also balance, but that would still have a very strong quality that would harmonize with some Divine Male aspects.
I see this design inked with a very “light” hand to achieve an ethereal, soft, and magickal quality, but then the lines of the more precision areas around the Triquetra and Lotus to be defined.
I combined some symmetry and precision with a mix of organic balance and flow that emanates out from a very clear, grounded, centered core, into creative power and unlimited possibilities. This also speaks to both having crystallized focus and intentions, but also remaining opening to how natural harmony leads one to walk in its rhythm and grace – being “perfect in your imperfection”, as I always like to say.
Some of the essence qualities captured are:
- graceful use of focused direction
- courage to embody and walk in the truth of one’s authenticity, but in line with the highest good
- some Cosmic essence with the Eye Nebulae below (of Source/Universe/All That Is/God/Goddess) and small dots of stars gently dispersed throughout
- centering and wholeness
- the energy of the Trinity with the Triquetra (but also with the three eyes (owl’s and Nebulae) that balance and mirror the Triquetra) – also to help connect with the 3 minds and to support integration, balance, freedom
- freedom, as comes through with the wings of the angel at center and the feathery wing quality spreading gracefully above and below, but in a stylized etheric and creatively passionate quality
- guidance and strength, as comes through from the Archangels as well as comes through the Owl guide
- Divine beauty and coming into one’s fullness from all the experiences/layers one is made of (as depicted from the Lotus)
- empowerment (which emanates from this piece that is like dimension upon dimension, layered one over the other, but so strongly centered in the heart and clarity of vision
- vision from both the Owl eyes and the Eye Nebulae that bring an even wider expanse of vision connected to all that is – inner and outer vision
- the creatively stylized and inspired Owl animal spirit guide (whom is connected to Athena – prevalent for my client) – owls bring the gifts of ancient wisdom, intuition, magic, reveals the hidden realm, keen awareness within silence, is a gatekeeper, and signifies an old soul and mastery
- ascension energy in being a portal tool to continued expansion in all directions, depth of inner vision and knowledge, and continuous blossoming and protection along the journey
- a small hint of Kabbalistic energy where the Lotus and Angel are at center with the placement of the top of the Tree of Life
- bridging – there is a connection and integration embodied between Earth and Cosmos
It’s always wonderful to allow these sacred designs to speak to you, but there is definitely the quality of being aligned with Divine Will through personal and highest power in service to others from this centered place.
It feels to be a personal empowerment emblem or crest, so to speak, that is multi-dimensional and embodies both Earthly and otherworldly qualities.
My client is very connected to Moldavite and I was called to have my own Moldavite with me while creating and channeling the design, and on the day I was finalizing things and photographing it, an owl was hooting in the backyard, which I have never heard before here. This gave me chills, as if a resounding presence of support and celebration was all around in this creation.
It’s always an amazing journey to create these designs, as I just never know what may come through and yet that is the beauty and magick of it all….and of life.
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred visionary piece of artwork or tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
There is currently a waiting list. You can easily make your deposit at the link provided to embark on this journey in partnership with me.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
To enjoy a visual journey of some of the sacred tattoo designs I’ve had the honor and privilege of co-creating, please visit: Spiritual Skin for my YouTube video.
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle format here: Spiritual Skin
You can also order your personal copy here: Signed and Inscribed Copy of Spiritual Skin
She Who Creates – Shaman of the Arts Sacred Tattoo Design
I’ve been in the sacred tattoo design vortex here, and today’s share is nothing short than magickal indeed.
I loved working this client, who immediately proved to be much more than that, and what has unfolded between us energetically and through this design has just been breath-taking.
That being said, I’m going to keep this tattoo design share, short and sweet, as I believe the photo speaks for itself.
Sometimes when I photograph my designs, some odd energy and light effects take place, and this happened again last night as I tried to capture this image. What appeared, to me, is pretty wild.
The second image to the right, is the more flat, regular drawing and the first one on the left is where the magick happened.
I love how the energy and lighting falls on the design, creating that ethereal quality and essence that IS emanating from it, even if you can’t see it JUST by looking at the design. These sacred pieces ARE alive and pulsing with presence and energy, as the potent portals they are.
Look how the light from top left illuminates through their crowns and from the Flower of Life design that is slowly materializing there. And look at that glowing soft blue light from bottom that is like wow! as it is flowing from the bottom Flower of Life design.
As mentioned, I feel the design speaks for itself, so the only few things I’ll share are these very basics about the main elements:
Isis (as an aspect of my client/her wholeness/empowered/Divine Feminine/Goddess essence) – she is a dance choreographer and powerful creative healing visionary
Hawk – see Hawk Spirit Symbolism
Flower of Life in an artistic version that brings creation from the void into life here – I was inspired by the oldest to date Flower of Life I had opportunity to see at the Temple of Osiris at Abydos, in Egypt, to infuse into this piece Egyptian-to-modern-day-inspired piece
Isis/my client is creating alchemy and magick as the child of the stars that she is, evident by her hands as that magician quality where she is mastering all elements to create from in this “dance” of life she shares. There is also shapeshifter energy and shaman of the arts and all things beautiful here.
I’ve added a bursting lotus “crown” at the hawk’s head emanating in open and expanding consciousness – honoring Horus.
In ancient Egypt, the hawk was considered a royal bird and a symbol of the soul (ba). Isis is said to have shape shifted into a Hawk to save Osiris. Horus also carried Hawk medicine which allowed him to see the “unseeable”.
I loved the way the vision came through in wrapped wings that double as both Hawk’s and Isis’ wings, also reminding me of an angel wrapping around supportively – sharing its presence is always there when needed.
And I created soft edges to everything as if it is all just starting to materialize and coming into manifestation from star dust.
I hope you enjoy exploring this image, as much as I enjoyed creating it into life. Can’t wait to see this in the flesh.
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred visionary piece of artwork or tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
There is currently a waiting list. You can easily make your deposit at the link provided to embark on this journey in partnership with me.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
To enjoy a visual journey of some of the sacred tattoo designs I’ve had the honor and privilege of co-creating, please visit: Spiritual Skin for my YouTube video.
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle format here: Spiritual Skin
You can also order your personal copy here: Signed and Inscribed Copy of Spiritual Skin
Best Preserved & Most Elaborate Ancient Tattoos in the World – Imagery as a Form of Language & Status
As I’m in the midst of working on sacred tattoo designs here, I found this article shared by a dear friend of mine -thanks Jim!! – to be quite a cool and synchronous read. The article shares about a 2500 year-old mummy of a Siberian “Princess” – known as the Ukok Princess – and two mummies of “warrior” men who were discovered 19 years ago on the remote Ukok Plateau, about 2,500 meters up in the Altai Mountains, close to the border frontiers of Russia with Mongolia, China and Kazakhstan.
I LOVE the elaborate and beautiful designs of these nomadic Pazyryk people, which are seen to be the “best preserved and most elaborate ancient tattoos anywhere in the world”.
We all remember the “Ice Man” – Otzi – found in the Alps and his ancient tattoos, which are much older, but were no where near the incredible artistry of the Pazyryks’ tattoos, as he had only lines and dots.
The Siberian Princess is said to have died around age 25-28 over 2500 years ago, which makes her “some five centuries older than Jesus Christ, and several hundred years the senior of Alexander the Great”.
She was buried with six horses – her spiritual escorts to the next world and symbols of her status. It is thought she may have been “more likely a revered folk tale narrator, a healer or a holy woman than an ice princess”.
Nonetheless, these tattoos had much meaning and symbolism to the Pazyryks, and across time, this has held true for all ancient cultures.
I love how the Pazyryks used animal imagery as a form of language to represent their thoughts. Wearing many animals myself, I do understand. 🙂
They were also used to define their status in society and in the world, and the more tattoos a person had, the higher their position, and the longer it meant that they lived. Again, as I point out in my book, Spiritual Skin, it is interesting how things changed and how tattoos began to be looked down upon in modern times.
Since the princess had only her two arms tattooed, it signified her younger age, as well as her status.
You can read the full article that details more about the tattoo findings of the princess and warriors, along with specifics on the fantastical animal imagery they wear, and other interesting insights here:
How Has “Spiritual Skin” Touched Your Life? – Share a Review
I’m up to my Third Eye in sacred tattoo designs and loving it. 😉 I can see and feel how the energy is shifting so much and so rapidly with everyone, as these designs are amping up not only in symbolic depth, but more and more people are also feeling this vehicle of expression and portal-awakening to be one of their chosen tools of their journey.
One of the most beautiful and valuable things to me that has come from writing my book, “Spiritual Skin”, has been in hearing from others about how their beliefs, ideas, and lives have changed because of experiencing a perspective shift from reading it.
It’s touched me greatly to learn that some even experienced opening and depth to the way they connected with others who have tattoos that they never would have before, finding a new appreciation for each person’s choices.
In some cases I’ve heard about relationships mothers had with their children being enhanced with their new perceptions on tattoos.
My own mother and father had their own transformations so much so that my mom, who would never get a tattoo, said to me “After reading your book, it makes me feel like I would really want to get one too” and my dad has exhibited proud expressions when others stop me to say something nice about my tattoos while he is with me.
In another incidence there was a beautiful story that moved me about a woman who never would have previously stopped to talk to a homeless person, but found herself finding a way to engage meaningfully, after reading my book, and stopped to connect with a homeless man to ask him about his tattoos.
And a lovely, young woman who has courageously supported her family and herself in life shared, “I read your book and I have to say, I am not a reader, I buy a lot of books that I read half way and then give up. Your book is the only book that I have ever read every page of willingly…I have a Chakra book, a book on Egyptian yoga, I have audio books about the Law of Attraction, I have audio meditation guides that have been very helpful. I have books on angels (I love my angels), and I collect stones to try to meditate with them. I feel like I’m on the right path, but I’m just not getting something. Your book helped me understand a lot of what I have been reading about and listening to, more than everything I’ve been reading or listening to has.”
These kinds of things are priceless to me and are the reasons I do what I do.
If you’ve already read “Spiritual Skin” and haven’t yet shared a review on Amazon, I would love to hear what your impressions and experiences are from reading the book and your journey with sacred body art.
You can leave your review at Amazon here – just click on customer reviews and then create your own review: http://tinyurl.com/spiritualskinreview
Thank you dearly to everyone for keeping this sacred art alive and for bringing the true meaning and value of it to the world. I believe that, as my book title shares, there is much “more than skin deep” that you can take away from an exploration of spiritual meaning behind sacred tattoos.
If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred visionary piece of artwork or tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
You can easily make your deposit at the link provided to embark on this journey in partnership with me. There is currently a waiting list, so deposits are needed to hold your place, since the designs are created on a first come, first served basis.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
An Inside Look At One Soul’s Sacred Tattoo Experience – Mari’s Journey with “Spiritual Skin”
So, you’ve heard a lot from me about my own tattoos and my insights on the sacred designs I am blessed to be able to partner in co-creating, but other than some of the testimonials you can find at my website, we have yet to hear a personal story shared from the other side of this collaborative process.
Today, will fill that missing link, as I bring to you one of my beautiful clients – turned dear friend – who truly embodies her own unique expression of sacred body art. I love that designing these sacred pieces brings me into collaboration with souls across the globe, from every walk of life and age, and allows me to be a vehicle of support, as I am humbled to work so intimately with each soul.
I have made many life-long friends and reconnected with soul family because of this work and I am grateful to witness the blossoming and shifts that each individual journeys, as they so graciously invite me to walk along with them for a brief, but powerful part of that path.
Today, I am excited and honored to share with you one of my dear clients and friends, Mari Braveheart-Dances. She and I, along with her gifted tattoo artist, Bethrah Szumski, have created already 4 sacred tattoo designs and are in process of 3 more. She is an incredibly courageous woman – just as her name reflects – who dances with symbolism and understands this process in reflective resonance to my own journey.
Mari’s experiences have created huge shifts in her life, that I’ve been grateful to be a part of, hear about, and witness. She has recently made a huge transition, during the time we have known each other, which has her courageously following her dream to empower and support herself. This has involved a physical move and soon to find her transitioning across the states to a special area in California so that she can pursue her intents and gifts. I’m so excited for her.
If you’ve seen my own sacred body art, you can see how she and I are walking expressions of our unique souls made visible through our skin, as you explore her photos shared here. It’s definitely not the path for everyone, but for many it is one tool and way that we have chosen to embody our self-expression and create integrative healing portals via the vehicle of our bodies as artistic and cosmic temples. Some people may never be drawn to tattoos, some may wear one, and others may find that several speak their individual language wanting expression.
Then there are people who will be triggered by the sight of tattoos, which will bring up their own individual processes to explore (or not), as well as people who are daily experiencing their own shifts in judgments, perspectives, and ideas surrounding tattoos.
You may find these two articles to be of interest if you are considering this path:
The Essence of You – Do Tattoos Support Or Hinder Your Personal Expression?
Sacred Tattoos – Personal Portals To Genetic Rewiring
The most recent piece Mari and I worked together on was her Shaman’s Necklace, which was the first piece I had created as a neck and chest ornamentation. It was quite the undertaking on many levels, but I have to say, when I saw it completed, I was incredibly moved by the way it not only had come to life, but how Mari radiated in wearing this like the true Goddess that she is.
I’ve shared photos of Mari, her sacred tattoos, and the designs we have worked together on, throughout this article, to explore as you read her personal thoughts on the process we have embarked on. I look forward to the continued journey with her and hope that you find her experiences to be insightful and inspiring.
Here’s Mari Braveheart-Dances as she shares from her heart about her “Spiritual Skin“
Mari’s Thoughts on sacred tattoo designs:
My Tattoos are my Intentions. They are my heart and my soul. You put an energy into your body, your mind, your being, your skin – and you are changed. But the change for a truly energetic/spiritual experience of course comes from within yourself first.
Putting permanent ink on your body is a huge decision. It is not simply ink on skin. As a creator, you have the creative license to adorn your naked body if you wish to. This is no cause for shame. This is something to be proud of. When you take it to the level of interconnecting your inner world and intentions or whatever way you view it, with the outer world: energetic as well as physical – you engage a level of existence for yourself that heretofore was unheard of.
Make no mistake about it. Inking oneself is huge. In a perfect world, it would not ever be taken lightly. It’s serious business, at least in my opinion. I care about body, and I care about my being myself. I love the absolute beauty and creative genius that goes into my Spiritual Skin! Why is it huge?
Because Spiritual Skin shifts things. Tania can explain all that, but I am simple about it. My world has shifted as if the tectonic plates had mis-aligned in the past some-odd years. My Spiritual Skin journey has been a part of my waking up from a bad dream, and coming closer and closer to the light I wanted in my life.
My Tattoos are Incredibly Beautiful. To see them is to know beauty and symmetry, true love, anam cara, transformation, warrior-ness, phoenix, Powerful Woman, Wolf, Raven, and The Sea, among others. All this is beautiful. It is a small part of me, Mari Braveheart-Dances. I am grateful to my co-creatrixes: Tania Marie who designed most of my tattoos through a beautiful process of weaving our energies back and forth in an infinity pattern of connection. She is not only an artist in the physical realm of being, but also and equally importantly in the spiritual/energetic realms — and Bethrah Szumski (Bethrah doesn’t have a tattoo website, as she no longer tattoos except for long-held clients) who as an artist transferred Tania’s designs onto my skin. With a true tattoo artist – one who inks you – I insist on them being both artist and tattoo artist. Bethrah is both. She made everything flourish together in one living, breathing, intentional work of art. Not only that, but Bethrah added the beauty and meaning that tied it all together. All three of us are certainly co-creatrixes of my beautiful Spiritual Skin!
Since Tattoos are much more than ink on skin, hence the experience “Spiritual or Sacred Skin,” you have to expect your life to change. If you do tattoos like I do them, as intentions, your life will change. You must trust the universe to bless you with the beauty of your intentions. Also understand that you will have to hold on to your seat, as it may be a bumpy ride in terms of adjustment. If your family is as conservative as mine, you may not fare so well. I would say to be aware, always, of energy from yourself and others. Tattoos call people’s energy. They call your energy. They are, in my opinion, a bid for power. I speak of Spiritual Skin.
It’s very important to believe in yourself, and to feel proud of your work. Tattoos are, to me, a work of art and art being life itself – equivalent to life. Tattoos = Art = Life!
And there you have it – a fragment of this wonderful and wondrous, and very beautiful – energetic and spiritual and physical journey of Spiritual Skin.
~ Peace and Love, Mari Braveheart-Dances ~
Mari’s personal process with the inking and her thoughts on how to approach and understand the unique journey that will be your own, relative to you and the energy you are integrating:
It was a shock to me to experience being tattooed for the first time. I was not prepared at all for the pain. But as I have had many tattooes, I’ve learned that my own state of mind is the most important factor in the experience. I think, too, that it is essential to have an excellent relationship with your tattoo artist as this encourages the healing process as well. It’s helpful to me, in fact essential, to focus on very deep breathing both before, and during the inking process. Also, I personally don’t schedule too much around a tattoo session, as I find that it takes away from the relaxation I need in the healing process.
I always go into a session with the knowing that I will heal perfectly, and I am vigilant about aftercare. My tattoo artist at first refused to do my hands, for various reasons – not the least of which is that hands are known to heal poorly. But I “knew” that this would not be the case for me. It was painful, of course, but not unbearable – it actually went incredibly well, and I have a pretty big tattoo on one hand. Healing was unbelievably perfect. I don’t think I’ve ever had such excellent healing as my hand tattoos!
For my large chest piece, which was done over about five or six sessions, I experienced the greatest learning curve being inked. The chest is a pretty difficult place to be tattooed, and on the third time I was the most peaceful I’ve ever been on a tattoo. It was the only time I experienced some ability to step outside the pain and find my way to experiencing it as less-pain, and I was able to continue longer than both my tattoo artist and I expected me to.
The last section of this chest piece, which is actually a sort of “necklace” that goes from one side of my neck, across my chest, and to the other side of my neck, was unexpectedly the most difficult tattoo experience I’ve ever had. I realized that it had much to do with the energetic intensity of this particular part of my tattoo – and for the first time I experienced severe bruising. I’d had the same sort of work done on the other side of my neck, and that was not the case there. In other words, often the experience of being tattooed is related to the type of animal or symbolic design that is being inked. As I looked in the mirror at my neck, I saw that Raven stood in the shadow of “the great bruise,” and I understood on an energetic and personal level why that had to be.
There is almost always some sort of “opening” into new experiences as I’m being inked, but I find that the main opening takes place over time, as I become more and more open to the shifting taking place within me, and in my life, as a result of living with my Spiritual Skin.
Mari on her experiences with me and what it has meant to her to work with the process of tattoos as “Spiritual Skin”:
To me, getting tattoos has always been about the spiritual meaning of them. I would get to a point in my life when I would want to have a design that would signify an important accomplishment or change in my life.
I have searched through many different means, ways to transform my life. I have never experienced anything as powerful and life-altering in a positive way as the experience of tattoos as Sacred and Spiritual.
I began to try to find out if anyone else had these same experiences, if anyone else cared about the Sacred and Spiritual Energetic shifts that can occur with Tattoos. In my searching, I found Tania Marie who wrote a beautiful book called Spiritual Skin – Sacred Tattoos More Than Skin Deep. I was drawn to her book by the title, and it enhanced my experience even more.
Eventually, I was compelled to email Tania and discuss the possibility of having her work with me to design some Sacred Tattoos for me.
It is almost impossible to put into words what this experience has meant and continues to mean to me in my personal life. The process of co-creating with Tania, Sacred Skin that is meaningful and life-changing, is so much more than just designing a beautiful tattoo. So much more than mere ink on skin. Any good artist can create a beautiful design. But I know of no one who does the kind of work that Tania does.
Working with Tania is like working with someone on a different plane – someone who takes what you say about who you are, and listens to the energy behind your words. Tania has the beautiful ability and gift of being able to read a client’s energy and also to read the energy that is coming through from the universe that is most needed for the journey of wholeness to be made complete in the sacred tattoo design.
My heart and soul trusts this woman with complete openness and faith in her incredible ability to truly listen. This is a rare, rare gift, and it shows in the designs she creates for me.
My life has changed, and continues to change, in miraculous ways due to the Spiritual Skin designed by Tania Marie especially for me. These Sacred Designs are so much more than beautiful ink on skin – they truly are portals to different depths of experience of the fullness and wholeness of life.
I am blessed and honored beyond measure to be a part of such a Sacred and Transformative Process – working with this beautiful human being to bring in the healing designs that are what I need at that time.
May you be blessed with your choice to work with this truly gifted and spiritual woman. You will never regret one second of this choice.
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If you would like to partner in co-creating your own sacred visionary piece of artwork or tattoo design to embody the empowerment you desire, you can contact me at tania@spiritualskin.com.
You can easily make your deposit at the link provided to embark on this journey in partnership with me. There is currently a waiting list, so deposits are needed to hold your place, since the designs are created on a first come, first served basis.
For more information about the process and pricing please visit: What is a Tattoo Design Consultation
To enjoy a visual journey of some of the sacred tattoo designs I’ve had the honor and privilege of co-creating, please visit: Spiritual Skin for my YouTube video. You can also explore some of the tattoo designs I have helped create, along with completed images as “Spiritual Skin” here: Tattoo Design Gallery
Some people have preferred to read my book, Spiritual Skin ~ Sacred Tattoos: More than Skin Deep, especially if they are new to sacred tattoo designs, before embarking on this journey.
If you are drawn to learn more about sacred tattoos you can order a copy of the book here: Spiritual Skin
It is also available in Kindle format here: Spiritual Skin
You can also order your personal copy here: Signed and Inscribed Copy of Spiritual Skin