In this conversation, I’m joined by Spiritual Director and artist Heather Berndt. We talk about how the soul speaks through images and how those images guide us into the next stage of our lives. We begin with the image of recovery (AA and Al-Anon) as a shared image that invited us into transformation. From there, we explore personal symbols, dreams, archetypes, and creative practices that help us hear the soul more clearly.

We reflect on a quote from Meister Eckhart: “When the soul wants to experience something, it throws out an image in front of her and then steps into it.” This idea shapes the heart of our conversation. Heather shares her process, Mappa Divina©, and how it helps people engage with the images that show up in their lives. Whether those images come through art, intuition, or unexpected moments, they often carry meaning. We talk about how to listen, how to trust, and how to work with what arises.

Topics We Cover: The image of recovery as an entry point to inner work Meister Eckhart and the soul’s movement toward experience The difference between collective and personal imagery Dreams, symbols, and recurring patterns as soul language The archetype of the Mystic Working with images through art, journaling, Tarot, and collage Heather’s approach to Mappa Divina© and midlife discernment

About Heather Berndt: Heather is a Spiritual Director and visual artist who helps others connect with their inner wisdom through image-making and creative reflection. She is the creator of Mappa Divina©, a contemplative process rooted in trust, curiosity, and soul listening. You can find her work at https://www.heatherberndt.com

Connect with Me: You can find my offerings, writing, and updates at bethanysward.com. Subscribe to the show, share this episode with someone it might serve, and leave a review if you’d like to support the work.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Mappa Divina©

Meister Eckhart’s quote

SoulCollage®

Archetypal Spiritual Direction Practices for working with image and intuition