Chapter 3: Vasalisa the Wise and Baba Yaga
Sunday, June 8, 11:30am MST
In this session, we journey into Chapter 3 of Women Who Run with the Wolves, exploring the rich folklore of Vasalisa the Wise and the fearsome Baba Yaga. Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estés uses this tale to illuminate the sacred power of intuition, the necessity of initiation, and the deep feminine wisdom that is often forged in the unknown. Through this symbolic story, we’ll reflect on how the inner 'doll'—a gift from the mother—serves as a guide through the forest of transformation, and how the Wild Woman uses challenges to shape the soul. Together, we’ll explore what it means to trust the small voice within, walk through fear, and receive the fire of inner knowing. This session invites you to deepen your relationship with your instinctual self and embrace the initiatory path of becoming.
Reflection Questions for the Session: ​
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What does the doll represent to you? In what ways have you experienced a quiet inner knowing that has helped you navigate uncertainty?
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Who or what in your life has played the role of 'Baba Yaga'—harsh, wild, but ultimately a teacher? How did you respond to that challenge?
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What fears have you had to walk through in order to come into your own power or wisdom? What changed on the other side?
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Are you allowing your intuition to guide you? Or do you silence it to please others or stay 'safe'?
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How do you care for and listen to your inner guidance—the small doll within in daily life?
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How do you understand the “fire” that Vasalisa brings home at the end of her journey? What inner transformation or gift have you earned through difficult experience?