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OUR COSMIC CURRICULUM (S5 | E207)
The Open Nesters Podcast
A SEASONED ASTROLOGER
In this episode of The Open Nesters Podcast, Tessa engages with Eric Myers, a seasoned counseling astrologer and author, to explore the transformative journey of open nesting—where life beyond raising children opens doors to new adventures and personal growth. We dive deep into Eric’s unique background, starting with his early life in Connecticut and journey into spiritual exploration. His experience in transpersonal counseling psychology has shaped his distinctive approach to astrology, where he pairs psychological insights with metaphysical perspectives.
Eric discusses his fascinating experiences as a digital nomad over the past few years, reflecting on how his travels across Europe have shifted his perspective on American culture. Through his lens of spirituality and community, he contrasts the individualistic nature of the United States with the more collective social structures he observed abroad. This exploration serves as a foundation to understand how diverse environments can impact our inner selves and our relationships with others.
Highlighting the shift of becoming an open nester, Eric underscores how this life stage can be a pivotal time for self-discovery, urging listeners to view the empty nest phase not as a loss but as an opportunity for reinvention. He emphasizes how astrology can serve as an insightful tool for understanding one’s spiritual curriculum—unique life lessons intended for personal growth. Eric provides a nuanced view of astrology, steering away from common misconceptions and emphasizing its role in revealing deeper truths about our soul’s journey rather than predicting destinies.
Eric articulates the significance of recognizing our karmic patterns and how they can inform our choices, especially in relationships. Through illustrative examples, he shares insights into how people can engage with their lessons rather than shy away from discomfort. These discussions lead to a richer understanding of how personal growth can stem from engaging with challenges and examining the dynamics we share with partners.
Throughout the conversation, Eric also sheds light on the importance of self-authorship in our later years, encouraging listeners to break free from societal conditioning. He shares practical tools for listeners to assess whether they are operating from a space of personal fulfillment or simply conforming to external expectations. This nuanced view provokes thought on how to reconcile our past socializations with the spiritual desires that emerge during this stage of life.
Listeners are invited to reflect on their own curricula and consider what lessons lie ahead. Eric notes that various astrological passages experienced throughout life serve as markers for spiritual development, and encourages open nesters to explore these phases as opportunities for deeper understanding. Tessa and Eric conclude the episode with a mutual appreciation for the growth opportunities present during this stage of life, affirming the importance of awareness in navigating the terrain of adult relationships and personal desires.
Resources for You
We want to provide you with support and many many resources for your own Open Nesting Journey. Our resource page has so much to offer as does our private discussion group on Facebook about queerness and other topics of interest:
The Open Nesters Private Facebook Group
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- ask to join and we’ll let you in
IN ERIC’S OWN WORDS
Shortly after graduating from American University in 1993 (B.A. Psychology), my life went through a series of unexpected changes which included the discovery of a deeper spirituality and the study of astrology. My personal revolution and evolution included the decision to drop out of a Ph.D. Psychology program to move to Boulder, CO and study Transpersonal Counseling Psychology at Naropa University. Upon attaining my M.A. in 2001, I committed to a career as an astrological counselor. At that time, I was also studying with astrologer Steven Forrest, who I tutored with for 5 years. In the last 22 years my practice has steadily grown, and I have now published 7 original astrology books.
I see myself as a fellow traveler on the path. As Ram Dass says, “We’re just walking each other home.” Indeed, we are walking towards greater wholeness — towards more love and depth in the heart, and more expanse in the sky. My focus is on spiritual awakening, becoming more conscious. I have been particularly influenced by the teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi, Eckhart Tolle, Byron Katie, Adyashanti and others.
To me, an astrology chart illustrates a person’s trajectory of awakening. As seen in my books, I have developed a unique approach to assist clients in their process of becoming and realization. My style is to be maximally accessible and to accept others just as they are without pretense. I have a compassionate yet direct approach, and I am fascinated and curious to hear my clients’ experience.
My current passion is meditation and embodiment practices. I have learned that spiritual awakening (developing awareness, connection to life) becomes realized and integrated by our participation here (on the earth) and now (in the present)! I maintain an active lifestyle, particularly out in nature.
I’m currently located on the shoreline of Connecticut. I maintain a busy practice and welcome new (and return) clients. After an inward phase, I’m planning to resume teaching astrology classes later on this year. Another interest of mine is to assist the development of Heliocentric Astrology, and I’ll likely write on that soon. My deep desire is to contribute to a 21st Century astrology incorporating spirituality, science and psychology which empowers the individual to live in co-creative harmony with nature.
