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Facing the Shadows: How Fearful Fables Shape Our Self-Image (and How to Reclaim Your Power)



This spooky season, let's explore the shadows that lurk not just in haunted houses and eerie graveyards, but within ourselves. We're talking about the fear of our own image, a fear that's often rooted in ancient folklore and societal conditioning.


In the latest episode of the Goldenbrand Podcast, Lisa Haukom unveils the fascinating world of myths and fables that have shaped our perception of self-image for centuries. From Medusa's terrifying gaze to Narcissus's self-infatuation, these stories whisper warnings about the dangers of vanity, visibility, and the power of the female image.


But here's the thing: these are just stories. And like any story, they can be rewritten.


The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters

This isn't just a whimsical exploration of spooky tales. This episode tackles deep-rooted issues that affect how we see ourselves and show up in the world:

  • Body Image and Self-Acceptance: We'll challenge the unrealistic beauty standards that bombard us daily and explore how to cultivate a loving relationship with our bodies, just as we are.

  • Fear of Visibility: We'll confront the fear of being seen, judged, and criticized, and discover how to step into the spotlight with confidence.

  • Reclaiming Your Power: We'll uncover the ways in which societal narratives have dimmed our light and explore how to reclaim our personal power and agency.


Unveiling the Fearful Fables

Lisa takes us on a journey through captivating tales, shedding light on how they've influenced our modern perceptions:

  • Medusa: The once-beautiful priestess, cursed by Athena for a transgression she didn't commit. Her image, transformed into a horrifying gorgon with snakes for hair, became a symbol of monstrous female power, something to be feared and avoided. This tale reflects the deep-seated societal fear of women owning their power and beauty.

  • Narcissus: The handsome youth obsessed with his own reflection, ultimately leading to his demise. While often interpreted as a tale about vanity, it also speaks to the danger of losing ourselves in the pursuit of an idealized image, neglecting the true essence within.

  • The Evil Eye: This belief, prevalent across many cultures, suggests that envious gazes can cause harm or misfortune. It reflects the anxiety surrounding visibility and the fear of being judged or envied for our accomplishments and attributes.

  • Breaking a Mirror: The superstition that shattering a mirror brings seven years of bad luck stems from the ancient belief that mirrors held a piece of our soul. This reflects the anxiety surrounding our own image and its perceived fragility.

  • The Camera Steals Your Soul: This more modern fear echoes the ancient beliefs about mirrors, suggesting that cameras can capture and steal our essence. This fear can lead to discomfort and resistance to being photographed, hindering our ability to embrace our image and share our stories.


Rewriting Your Narrative

But here's the empowering truth: you have the power to rewrite your story. You can choose to challenge these old narratives and embrace the power of your own image.

Lisa shares practical tips and rituals to help you create a safe and nurturing space for self-reflection and self-portraiture. She encourages you to:

  • Set intentions: "What do I want to explore about myself today? What part of me needs to be seen and celebrated right now?"

  • Create a sanctuary: Clear your space, both physically and energetically, to foster a sense of calm and safety. Play music that makes you feel held and protected.

  • Embrace vulnerability: Face your fears and insecurities with compassion and curiosity. Ask yourself, "What if I do like what I see?"

  • Celebrate your authentic self: Recognize your unique beauty and power, imperfections and all.





Lisa shares powerful insights from her own journey:

"I had to get really honest about how and where I was hiding, where I was terrified of my own story and my own personal power."
"This is your chance to rewrite your story. This is your chance to choose differently, to choose, to get to know yourself and your own image."

The Photo Club: A Safe Haven for Transformation

The Photo Club provides a supportive community where women can explore their self-image, challenge societal expectations, and embrace their true selves. It's a space where vulnerability is celebrated, imperfection is embraced, and the transformative power of photography is unleashed.



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