What You Need To Know About The 'Divine Feminine'
The "divine feminine," also known as the "sacred feminine”, is the latest topic of conversation, taking spiritual spaces by storm. And while it might sound like just another viral TikTok trend, the divine masculine and feminine energy has roots that trace back thousands of years across dozens of cultures. As feminist author Merlin Stone notes in her book, "When God Was A Woman," the concept of a divine feminine and masculine duality exists in all things — including people — and is represented in nearly every major world religion and spiritual belief system. From the Virgin Mary in Christianity; to Kali in Hinduism; and even as far back as Isis in Egypt –- each of these manifestations of the divine feminine represents a wise, valiant, and powerful archetype that anyone can learn to embody, per The Collector.
The divine feminine exists as a spiritual feminine counterpart to the more traditional masculine religious structures and energies. As best-selling author Clarissa Pinkola Estés writes in her book "Women Who Run With The Wolves," exploring the duality of our own existence can cause friction with people looking to uphold the status quo. However, you shouldn't let those questioning looks and judgmental states keep you from pursuing your truth. "To be ourselves causes us to be exiled by many others," explains Estés, "... and yet to comply with what others want causes us to be exiled from ourselves." And finding a balance between your masculine and feminine energy can be the key to finding your individual healing and peace.
Divine Feminine energy and the gender binary
Before you get started, it's important to remember that embracing your feminine energy and being feminine aren't the same thing. Tapping into your divine feminine energy is all about becoming your own muse. The secret to attracting personal satisfaction, professional success, and spiritual alignment is discovering your unique expression of the divine feminine energy. "You cannot create without masculine and feminine energy," explains Asha Earle, host of the "Intuitive Wanderess" podcast. Luckily, the divine feminine is not something you need to seek out or create; it's everything you already are. And because each one of us is unique, which means it might take some time and a bit of experimenting in order to fully cultivate your newfound sense of self (via Chopra).
Exploring the divine feminine energy within yourself is an experience that is open to anyone, regardless of your gender identity or expression. The divine masculine and feminine exist beyond constructs of gender, focusing instead on the practice of becoming more aware of yourself. "Everyone has both the feminine and the masculine qualities — it's not about what sex you are," intuitive counselor Elana Kilkenny tells MindBodyGreen. The divine feminine energy focuses on cultivating deeper relationships, setting strong boundaries, trusting your gut, and learning to ease into your softness. On the other hand, the divine masculine energy is about being present in the moment, using discernment, and learning to focus your attention and skills. Together, these energies create a balanced approach to life that validates your intellect and your emotions.
How to incorporate the Divine Feminine in your life
Ideally, you'll want to start small by incorporating divine feminine qualities and practices into your life and routine, building on them as you become more confident. According to holistic healer Solé, the divine feminine is multi-dimensional. It's the restoration of karmic order and the organizing force of the universe. So, an easy place to start is to get in touch with your core values and beliefs. What are your most genuine desires? What ignites your passion? How do you want to portray your most authentic self? Write down your list of values and rules for living life–keeping these in mind as you plan your schedule and personal goals. Over time, it will become easier for you to align these idealized qualities with your energy and embrace your stronger characteristics, per Sahara Rose.
As with all spiritual practices, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Part of following your unique path includes exploring your sensuality and discovering how you express your beauty to the world. "Since spirituality is not about the external but rather honoring exactly who and what we are, all versions of honoring ourselves mind, body, and soul is spiritual self-care," spiritualist Kendra Austin tells TZR. And attracting good things starts with the habits you practice daily -– like daily meditation, going to therapy, spending time with friends, and taking care of yourself. And by engaging in self–care activities that make you feel more confident (in your body and mind), you can take yourself back to a more genuine and self–assured version of yourself.