Holy Rebels

Nina Hirlaender OFS

You're listening to Holy Rebels, where ancient wisdom meets modern spirituality to help you connect with your soul so you can become who you were born to be.


Each week, we take a fresh look at the wisdom of the mystics—You’ll discover luminaries such as Mary Magdalene, Francis of Assisi and Teresa of Avila, and find inspiration in the practical spirituality of trailblazers like Dorothy Day and Thomas Merton. Along the way, we journey to the world’s sacred sites (think Chartres Cathedral, the Isle of Iona, and the Camino de Santiago), and unearth the secrets of cultural treasures like the Book of Kells and the Song of Songs.


Your host Nina Hirlaender is a Franciscan Sister, expert on mystical theology, and founder of Dancing Spirit Tours. If you feel curious about life’s most profound questions, this vibrant audio tapestry will leave you spellbound. Join our global community of listeners in 50+ countries and find out why Holy Rebels has become an irresistible sensation!


www.HolyRebelsPodcast.com

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Religion & SpiritualityReligion & Spirituality

Episodes

Spiritual Desolation: 3 Reasons You Feel Distant From God
Apr 11 2024
Spiritual Desolation: 3 Reasons You Feel Distant From God
What should you do when you feel distant from God? In this episode, we dive deep into the concepts of Spiritual Desolation and the Discernment of Spirits as taught by Ignatius of Loyola.  We explore the three main reasons why desolation might be showing up in your life: neglecting your spiritual life, learning to love the Divine for its own sake, and being reminded of your ultimate dependence on God. We also discuss how to prevent, endure, and conquer Spiritual Desolation, and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in every situation. Key Takeaways:* Ignatius of Loyola: Explore the revolutionary insights of Ignatius, whose spiritual exercises have profoundly impacted the way we understand our inner lives.* Spiritual Desolation: Delve into the nature of Spiritual Desolation, understanding its reasons and how it serves as a catalyst for profound spiritual growth.* Discernment of Spirits: Unpack guidelines for Spiritual Desolation from Discernment of Spirits that Ignatius proposed for recognizing and acting upon the movements within one's soul.* Practical Application: Learn about actionable, practical strategies derived from the 500-year-old wisdom of Ignatius for facing fears and making wise, clear decisions.Whether you're wrestling with Spiritual Desolation or simply seeking to deepen your relationship with yourself and the divine, this episode offers valuable insights and practical guidance rooted in the age-old wisdom of Ignatius of Loyola. Join us as we explore how to trust the mystic within and find peace amidst the fog of uncertainty.Support the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Discernment of Spirits: The Wisdom of Ignatius of Loyola
Apr 1 2024
Discernment of Spirits: The Wisdom of Ignatius of Loyola
The mystical teachings of Ignatius of Loyola guide us through the complexities of our spiritual journey. Applying the principles of Discernment of Spirits will help you navigate the highs and lows of your spiritual life.Discover the essence of Spiritual Consolation—those moments when you feel an unshakable connection to your deeper self and the divine, bringing clarity and joy to your spiritual journey. Contrastingly, we'll tackle the challenging phases of Spiritual Desolation  in a future episode. This is where feelings of isolation and confusion might overwhelm, yet also serve as critical periods for growth and introspection. This episode isn’t merely theoretical; it's crafted to be your experiential guide towards recognizing these spiritual states in yourself. We'll explore ways to stay grounded during spiritual desolation and how to genuinely connect with your inner wisdom amidst life's chaos. Expect practical insights into: Identifying moments of Spiritual Consolation and what they mean for your personal growth. Strategies to find God and peace within even when life feels challenging. The reality behind "manifesting your dreams" and discerning genuine spiritual desires.Differentiating between mere emotional highs and profound spiritual experiences. How to stay calm, regardless of your external circumstances. An introduction to The Examen, St. Ignatius' powerful practice for daily reflection and discernmentSupport the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
The Cosmic Christ and Teilhard de Chardin: Shaping the Future of Spirituality
Mar 15 2024
The Cosmic Christ and Teilhard de Chardin: Shaping the Future of Spirituality
In this deeply enriching episode, we explore the concepts of the Cosmic Christ, Teilhard de Chardin, and the Mystical Body of Christ, guiding listeners through a transcendent yet practical understanding of how these ideas can inspire and impact our daily lives.Cosmic Christ: Discover how the Cosmic Christ concept offers a unique perspective on spirituality that transcends traditional religious boundaries, inviting us into a deeper, more inclusive relationship with the divine and the universe.Teilhard de Chardin: Delve into the life and groundbreaking ideas of Teilhard de Chardin, a visionary Jesuit priest, scientist, and philosopher whose thoughts on evolution, technology, and spirituality were far ahead of his time. Learn how his vision of ongoing evolution and human's role in it connects with today's debates on ecology, climate change, and the rapid development of AI.Mystical Body of Christ: Understand how the Mystical Body of Christ invites us to realize our interconnectedness with all beings and the divine, encouraging us toward unity, compassion, and the collective endeavor of building a more loving and harmonious world.Additionally, we announce our exciting, free live online class, The Camino Experience, which ties into these themes by teaching the spiritual meaning of The Camino and offering practical tools for navigating life's challenges with wisdom and grace.SAVE YOUR SPOT 👉  THE CAMINO EXPERIENCE LIVE ONLINE CLASSSupport the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Rising Above Adversity: The Eighth Beatitude
Feb 29 2024
Rising Above Adversity: The Eighth Beatitude
There's extraordinary power in sacrifice— the enduring light of hope that can emerge from the depths of darkness. In today's episode, we explore the heroic life of Maximilian Kolbe. A man who, in the face of indescribable evil, chose to embody the purest act of love—laying down his life for another. We will journey through his inspiring story, reflecting on what it means to truly live for others and how, even in the darkest times, the human spirit can shine with an unquenchable light. This episode invites us to ponder deeply on our own beliefs, the nature of sacrifice, and the enduring strength of love over despair. Join us as we grapple with these eternal questions, inspired by the legacy of a saint who showed us that, indeed, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs.”👉 WALK THE CAMINO get your free Trip Guide here Support the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Finding Peace in a Polarized World: The Seventh Beatitude
Feb 13 2024
Finding Peace in a Polarized World: The Seventh Beatitude
How can the pursuit of peace become not just a noble idea, but a radical act of courage? In this episode, we dive into the heart of peacemaking, inspired by the beautiful paradox of the seventh beatitude: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God."Explore what it truly means to make peace — not just to avoid conflict, but to actively create harmony in every sphere of our lives. We take you on a journey from the bystander’s chair to the frontline of reconciliation, with powerful insights from one of the most impactful voices of the modern peacemaking movement, Martin Luther King JrThis episode invites you not only to "believe in peace", but to actively pursue it. This might just be what we need to take that monumental step toward peace — and in doing so, perhaps find that we are the ones most profoundly transformed.Support the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Are You Being True To Yourself? The Sixth Beatitude
Feb 6 2024
Are You Being True To Yourself? The Sixth Beatitude
Are you being true to yourself? It’s a loaded question . . . and if the answer is “I’m not sure,” that’s normal. In your busy life, it’s easy —and completely human!—to feel pulled in dozens of different directions, from romantic relationships and family dynamics to your job and your creative dreams.But if you get bogged down by the demands of daily life and it leads you to stray from the center of your heart, you can lose sight of your true self. And when you lose your true self, your connection with the Divine also suffers. This is because your experience of the sacred, and your connection to God starts within your own heart—and the path to realigning yourself with that “true self” you’re called to be, it begins with connecting to your most authentic, sincere self. Your soul. It all begins with you.If that feels like an overwhelming task, then the good news is you don’t have to walk this path alone. Thousands of spiritual seekers and mystics have walked this path before you. We can look to the wisdom of the sixth Beatitude: “Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.” Through exploration and understanding of this Beatitude, you can sift through the distractions and demands of your life, and tap into what’s truly important to you. You can strengthen your connection to the Divine by finding where the spirit of your heart truly lies.Support the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Why You Need to Forgive Them: The Fifth Beatitude
Jan 29 2024
Why You Need to Forgive Them: The Fifth Beatitude
How can we extend forgiveness to those who've caused us pain? How do we resist the urge for revenge when we feel wronged? In this thought-provoking episode, we grapple with an often-overlooked virtue—mercy.We navigate the tricky balance between justice and grace, all through the lens of the Beatitude 5: “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy."If you're seeking to understand mercy at a deeper level, to not only forgive but to empathize and love, then this episode is a must-listen. You'll learn how embracing mercy can positively transform your life, help you find forgiveness, and spread a love that can change the world.This episode is part of an enriching series ‘8 Keys to Happiness: The Beatitudes’. To understand how happiness can be less of a fleeting emotion and more of a conscious state of being, make sure to catch up on our previous episodes and stay tuned for the rest of the series!Mentioned in the show: Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald and Nikolaus of Haguenau#beatitudes #spirituality #spiritualpodcastSupport the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Righteous Rebellion: The Fourth Beatitude
Jan 23 2024
Righteous Rebellion: The Fourth Beatitude
Injustice is all around us, from suffering in our own communities to tragic news stories from the complete other side of the world. Think about the last time you saw injustice or unfairness in your life. Maybe you saw a coworker being treated harshly, encountered a homeless person struggling to find shelter on a cold night, or read a news story about children in the Middle East suffering during a humanitarian crisis. How did you react, or want to react? For some of us, the natural reaction is anger. Others might gravitate toward leniency or de-escalation. We may even feel too caught up in helplessness or overwhelmed to do anything at all. We just go numb. In this episode, we’ll dissect the idea of “right action” and discuss how to choose kindness and compassion without compromising your boundaries or becoming a doormat. Nina shares a stirring personal story about a time she witnessed injustice, which illuminates why we all have the power to pursue righteous rebellion and make a huge difference in someone else’s world. This episode is part of an enriching series on the Beatitudes: 8 Keys to Happiness. To learn more about how to use these eight keys as a guiding compass on your path toward authentic happiness, listen to the previous episodes in the series and stay tuned for the next episode!🎉👉Get your free masterclass! 3 KEYS TO UNLOCK YOUR CONNECTION TO THE DIVINE  www.MysticalSpirituality.comSupport the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Blessed Are The Meek: The Third Beatitude's Plea For Spiritual Maturity
Jan 15 2024
Blessed Are The Meek: The Third Beatitude's Plea For Spiritual Maturity
Mastering the art of self-control is essential to finding peace and happiness in life. In this episode, we explore the often-misunderstood virtue of "meekness", drawing inspiration from Mother Teresa, who often demonstrated composure under stressful circumstances. It takes great strength to face challenges with patience and respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively.Our conversation also touches on the role suffering plays in shaping our free will. Would you prefer a world without suffering, or is it preferable to live in a world where we have free will, even if it means suffering may result from our choices? Meekness and the choice of "doing good" over "doing harm" are intertwined. Applying this concept in your daily life can help you redefine success, regain integrity, and reset your inner compass to become a more mature version of yourself. Our exploration of meekness ultimately leads us to the heart of the third beatitude, "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." This profound statement serves as a compass guiding us towards embodying the virtue of meekness, urging us to exercise patience, show understanding, and extend love even in the most challenging circumstances. So, let's together embark on this journey, embodying the spirit of the third beatitude, to truly claim our rightful inheritance - the earth.Support the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Blessed Are They That Mourn: The Second Beatitude Advises, “Do Not Be Afraid”
Jan 9 2024
Blessed Are They That Mourn: The Second Beatitude Advises, “Do Not Be Afraid”
Grief is a non-linear journey. It requires courage and grace. In this thoughtful episode, Nina shares a personal story—she recounts a roadside accident and a heartbreak that resurfaced long-buried sorrow. Challenging experiences serve as a reminder that a one instance can trigger deeply buried pain, causing a flood of emotions to resurface and be unblocked.Our discussion centers around the second beatitude: "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted". We invite you to consider your own experiences with grief. Can you identify moments when comfort emerged amidst your sorrow? Has grief ever led to personal growth? What are the gifts that can be found in grief?The episode draws on ancient wisdom, personal anecdotes, and a touching poem by Rumi to underline the crucial role of our 'shadow' side in personal development and self-understanding.If you're seeking to better understand the nature of despair, or if you're searching for solace in knowing you're not alone, this episode is for you. Listen, share with a friend who might find comfort in it, and join us in our exploration of the mysteries and grace of grief.Support the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Blessed Are The Poor In Spirit: The First Beatitude's Call For Ultimate Surrender
Jan 2 2024
Blessed Are The Poor In Spirit: The First Beatitude's Call For Ultimate Surrender
This episode challenges societal norms by questioning our widely accepted definitions of wealth and success. It dives deep into the first Beatitude—"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven"—unraveling its profound implications on personal and spiritual growth. As we dive into this conversation, we begin to understand that true wealth is not measured by material possessions, but by our capacity to appreciate simplicity, embrace vulnerability, and embody humility. It's about recognizing our interconnectedness and interdependence with the world around us, rather than striving for isolated success. In this episode, Nina shares a personal story of an encounter with a rose bush, illustrating the transformative power of humility and gratitude. She invites us to show our "soft belly," to open ourselves up to the world, and to experience the richness of being an integral part of the whole. Immerse yourself in this enriching conversation about the first of the Beatitudes: 8 Keys to Happiness. Stay tuned for our next episode where we delve into the intense, comforting promise of the second Beatitude—your journey through these enlightening teachings has just begun! If this episode resonates with you, please leave a review! Your feedback is invaluable.Support the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
8 Keys To True Happiness: The Beatitudes
Dec 27 2023
8 Keys To True Happiness: The Beatitudes
The Beatitudes serve as a compass in our journey towards authentic happiness. They embody the core principles of humility, empathy, and peace, guiding us to transform not just our perspective, but our very way of life. In this insightful episode, we delve into the concept of true happiness and how it contrasts with the fleeting happiness that many of us pursue. When we internalize the Beatitudes, we begin to realize that happiness doesn't lie in external circumstances but within ourselves. These ancient teachings implore us to foster a spirit of humility, mercy, purity, peace, and courage.By cultivating these qualities, we are not just seeking momentary bliss but a state of enduring peace and contentment that transcends the highs and lows of life. In this episode, you'll learn how embracing the Beatitudes is about making a radical shift in our understanding of happiness.It's about choosing to live a life that is deeply fulfilling, rather than one that is simply pleasing. It's about realizing that genuine joy arises not from getting what we want, but from appreciating what we have and who we are.Above all, it's about learning to love life itself, in all its beauty and all its pain, and discovering the profound happiness that lies therein. So join us for this journey into the heart of happiness and let's embrace the wisdom of the Beatitudes.Support the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Discernment: How To Respond To Intuition
Mar 8 2023
Discernment: How To Respond To Intuition
How do you tell the difference between fear and intuition? Can you learn to be more intuitive? In this episode, we'll demystify the energy anatomy of your inner compass so you can make breakthrough choices that free you from second-guessing yourself. We'll look at how spiritual principles, like those proposed by Ignatius of Loyola in ‘The Spiritual Exercises’ are essential for harnessing your most powerful assets—intuition and discernment—in a way that strengthens your inner compass and helps you listen to intuitive guidance. We'll discuss the importance of cultivating an environment that truly nourishes your wellbeing and embraces your vulnerability so that trusting your gut feels effortless. When you master how to truly listen to your inner guidance while also making mindful choices that align with your values, then it’s possible to take bold risks in life without feeling overwhelmed by fear or uncertainty. Listen now to deepen your trust in yourself and the divine appointments that come along as you close the gap between who you are now, and who you want to become.#holyrebels #holyrebelspodcast #wisdomofthemystics #dancingspirittours #ninahirlaender #podcast #inspiration #spiritualpodcast #spiritual #spirituality #sacred #mysticism #mystic #god #consciousness #calm #personaldevelopment #metaphysics #camino #spaincamino #spain #stignatius #intuition #discernment #travelspain #spiritualtravel #intuitive #lifecoach #awakening #faithSupport the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Gifts of The Holy Spirit
Jan 19 2023
Gifts of The Holy Spirit
What is the Holy Spirit? How do the Divine Mind and our own human intellect intertwine? Join us as we decipher the metaphysics of the Trinity, gain insight into mystical prayer, and uncover the power of forging a direct connection with God. All this and more awaits you in this podcast episode decoding the spiritual nature of reality. We discuss how metaphysics is not only a philosophical concept, but an experiential one as well. By attuning to the rhythms and patterns of creation, you'll be awe-struck by the sheer grandeur and beauty of our universe. Additionally, we delve into how mystics view metaphysics through prayer—Mystical Prayer—as a way to connect with the Holy Spirit and create an unyielding foundation of inner fortitude. We also discover the temple of our souls and what it means to listen with the ears of your heart. Through meditation and silence, we come to understand that there is a power within us, beckoning us inwardly. As we tap into this insight, we uncover the truth of our Indwelling Spirit—an unconditional love that constantly guides and supports us, no matter what. Support the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
How To Pray Without Ceasing: Surrendering To Spiritual Healing
Dec 30 2022
How To Pray Without Ceasing: Surrendering To Spiritual Healing
Have you ever heard the saying, "There are no atheists in foxholes?" Most of us have found ourselves in situations so dire that—religious or not—we have tried to bargain with God. But bargaining is not the same as praying. In this episode, we’re exploring the tricky and sometimes uncomfortable questions that come up when we pray for help. From cancer to heartbreak, divorce, rejection, or any kind of suffering, sometimes we're in situations where prayer feels like our only recourse. But when faced with such questions as “what does it say about God if he doesn’t answer my prayers?” or “is it selfish to pray for healing?” we need to pause and reflect on the nature of prayer and what it means to ask for help from a divine being.What happens when God does not answer those cries? Nina tells her personal story of suffering that led her to ask complex and difficult questions about faith, our own mortality, and the true nature of God.Support the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
What is a Mystical Experience?
Nov 29 2022
What is a Mystical Experience?
Mystical experiences are utterly mysterious and difficult to articulate, but it’s common enough that we have reports of mystical experiences across time and cultures. It’s a state of consciousness, a phenomenon that simply happens to us and we don't know why. It’s impossible to achieve through your own efforts alone, because it’s given to you—by grace. When this happens to you, there’s no doubt because it's not a rationalization. A mystical experience is not a theory that someone has convinced you of to make life seem more tolerable. This state is real and deep and undeniable.In this episode of Holy Rebels, we explore the 3 telltale signs of mystical consciousness. Have you ever had a mystical experience? Not sure? Listen now to find out! Mentioned in the show:Teresa of Avila on The Prayer of Quiet:St Hildegard of Bingen, Selected writingsSupport the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Are You a Mystic?
Nov 16 2022
Are You a Mystic?
What makes a mystic?  —How did Rumi or Thich Nhat Hanh or Jesus feel when they sat down to pray? How can we nurture that same deep intimacy with the Universe?This is why the Holy Rebels Podcast exists—because mysticism is not a frequently discussed topic. It’s often described in an esoteric way that makes it seem like mystical intimacy is reserved for the spiritual elite. The Number One Reason WHY mysticism is vague and hard to understand is because it happens in the deepest part of your soul, a part of yourself that is hidden from your own awareness. In this episode we discuss what it takes to form a mystical bond with God. With practice and the right set of skills, you can have what Teresa of Avila describes as, “a state in which the soul experiences an extraordinary peace and rest, accompanied by delight or pleasure in contemplating God as present.”Mentions:John of the Cross, The Spiritual Canticle of The SoulCosmic Eye to Universe: youtube videoThomas Merton, Conjectures of a Guilty BystanderSupport the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram
Welcome to Holy Rebels
Nov 15 2022
Welcome to Holy Rebels
Holy Rebels is the podcast for modern mystics who seek the sacred in all things. It’s for contemplatives and spiritual activists who hunger to make sense of a fractured world and to anchor their learning in compassionate action.Each week, we take a fresh look at the Western mystical tradition—from European shamanism and Celtic Christianity to the Desert Fathers and Black Madonnas. (Intrigued yet?) You’ll meet real-life sages who forged a path that will illuminate your own. We discover luminaries such as Francis of Assisi and Teresa of Avila, and find inspiration in the practical spirituality of trailblazers like Dorothy Day and Thomas Merton.Along the way, we journey to the world’s sacred sites (think Chartres Cathedral, the Isle of Iona, and the Camino de Santiago), and unearth the secrets of cultural treasures like the Book of Kells and the Song of Songs.Host Nina Hirlaender is a spiritual director and founder of Dancing Spirit Tours. Known for her one-of-a-kind, immersive storytelling, Nina reveals why spirituality isn’t esoteric ‘woo-woo’ from an archaic past, but a powerful well of wisdom for navigating the modern moment. Are you a holy rebel?Support the showRate, Review & Follow“I love Nina and Holy Rebels Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please rate and review my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to practise their spirituality and nurture their inner wisdom. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a review.” Nina reads every single review and it always brings a smile to her face. Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now Show Notes: www.holyrebelspodcast.comConnect with me!facebookinstagram