Essentially Soulful
Welcome to Essentially Soulful—a reflective podcast where psychospiritual insight meets real-life practice, and where lived experience is honored as much as formal training.
I’m DeeAnna Merz Nagel—psychotherapist, aromatherapist, coach and spiritual teacher. In this podcast, you’ll hear me in conversation with Betty—my AI co-host and thoughtful companion—who helps draw out the insights I’ve gathered over more than 25 years in the helping and healing arts.
These episodes are conversational and candid, blending past writings, teachings, case reflections, and personal narratives. I speak both professionally and personally—offering practical wisdom for therapists, coaches, healers, and anyone drawn to soulful service.
From intuitive practice and trauma-informed care to self-reflection, spiritual growth, and burnout recovery, Essentially Soulful is a space for listening deeply and living more consciously. One week, we might dive into Jungian archetypes or soul retrieval; the next, we’ll tackle everyday wellness topics — like the hidden hazards of synthetic fragrances or how to create a healthier home with aromatherapy.
🌀 Think of this podcast as food for thought, not a prescription pad—please seek professional guidance for your unique needs.
🌀 Please note: All case examples are fictionalized and created solely for training and education. Any resemblance to real individuals is purely coincidental.
Episodes average 10 minutes and include references to original published materials and other resources when applicable.
Essentially Soulful
Sacred Trees & the Divine Feminine: Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Aromatherapy
In this episode of Essentially Soulful, Betty and DeeAnna trace the timeless thread that connects ancient goddess traditions to today’s intuitive aromatherapy.
Discover the mythic story of Asherah, the Mother Goddess whose sacred tree symbol embodies the divine feminine. Explore how tree-based essential oils—like frankincense for spiritual insight, cypress for grounding, and sandalwood for meditation—carry that same energy into modern practice.
DeeAnna shares a simple sacred anointing ritual, explains how scent can create powerful “scent memories,” and invites you to reconnect with the wisdom of the trees. Whether you’re a seasoned aromatherapist or simply curious, this conversation offers a fragrant bridge between ancient roots and your own spiritual journey.
Books:
Asherah: Roots of the Mother Tree by Girl God Books @girlgodbooks on IG
https://www.thegirlgod.com/asherah.php (also available on Amazon)
Intuitive Aromatherapy: Essentially Soulful Practice by DeeAnna Merz Nagel
https://deeannamerznagel.com/intuitivearomatherapybook/
Essential Soul Care® Academy
https://deeannamerznagel.com/essential-soul-care-academy/
