Katherine May, author of "Enchantment" and "Wintering," dives into the essence of finding wonder in our lives. She discusses nurturing a child-like awe as a remedy for burnout and emphasizes the impact of simple presence. May shares inspiring ways to reconnect with nature and creativity, revealing how rituals can guide us towards renewal. The conversation touches on the balance between structure and mystical inspiration, urging listeners to embrace enchantment to foster self-care and artistic growth.
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Pizza's Introduction to May's Work
Andy J. Pizza's wife introduced him to Katherine May's work.
He found it helpful in understanding presence and appreciating small things, which he struggles with due to ADHD.
insights INSIGHT
Finding Solace in Meditation
Katherine May discusses her tendency to retreat inward due to the outside world feeling unsafe.
Through meditation, she learned to reconnect with her body and find solace, improving her attention.
insights INSIGHT
Boredom and Disassociation
Andy J. Pizza and Katherine May discuss their shared experience of boredom and disassociation, but for different reasons.
Pizza disassociates due to understimulation, while May retreats due to overstimulation.
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In 'Wintering', Katherine May shares her personal experiences of coping with illness, career changes, and family challenges, and how she found strength and healing through the concept of 'wintering'. The book draws on lessons from literature, mythology, and the natural world, highlighting the importance of rest, retreat, and embracing the cyclical nature of life. May discusses various cultural and spiritual practices related to winter, as well as her own experiences with cold-water swimming and other winter activities, to illustrate how winter can be a time of renewal and growth.
The origin of consciousness in the breakdown of the bicameral mind
Julian Jaynes
Julian Jaynes's "The Origins of Consciousness in the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind" is a controversial but influential work that proposes a revolutionary theory about the evolution of human consciousness. Jaynes argues that consciousness as we know it emerged relatively recently in human history, and that earlier humans experienced the world differently, receiving instructions and guidance from internal voices they attributed to gods. This "bicameral mind," Jaynes suggests, was a state of consciousness where the left and right hemispheres of the brain functioned more independently. The book draws on evidence from ancient literature and mythology to support its claims, sparking considerable debate among scholars. While its central thesis remains highly contested, the book's imaginative approach to understanding consciousness continues to inspire discussion and further research.
The Electricity of Every Living Thing
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Katherine May
Katherine May's "The Electricity of Every Living Thing" is a memoir that intertwines personal reflections on her midlife autism diagnosis with observations of the natural world. May's writing style is introspective and lyrical, exploring themes of sensory experience, self-acceptance, and the search for meaning in everyday life. The book delves into the challenges and joys of living with autism, offering a unique perspective on neurodiversity. Through vivid descriptions of nature walks and personal anecdotes, May invites readers to connect with their own bodies and find solace in the present moment. The book's exploration of self-discovery and acceptance resonates deeply with readers seeking understanding and connection.
Enchantment
Katherine May
Katherine May's "Enchantment" is a captivating exploration of the power of wonder and the importance of reconnecting with the natural world. May weaves together personal anecdotes, philosophical reflections, and scientific insights to illuminate the ways in which enchantment can enrich our lives. The book encourages readers to cultivate a sense of awe and curiosity, fostering a deeper appreciation for the beauty and mystery of the world around them. It's a thoughtful and inspiring read that reminds us of the magic that exists in everyday life. May's writing style is both lyrical and accessible, making this book a pleasure to read for anyone seeking a deeper connection to themselves and the world.
Sometimes the most simple act of presence can lead us from exhaustion, to recovery and back onto the path towards inspiration. Katherine May, author of The Electricity of Every Living Thing and Wintering joins us to talk about the inspiration behind her newest book Enchantment.
In this episode we discuss the fog, the magic, the journey, and how we can nudge ourselves and others forward by:
Reconnecting to a child-like sense of awe and wonder
Creative Pep Talk 
