Dreams as a Living Relationship with Toko-pa Turner

What if your dreams were not something to decode, but something to be in relationship with?

In this episode, I’m joined by Toko-pa Turner, an award winning author, teacher, and long time dream practitioner whose work weaves dreamwork, depth psychology, and lived spiritual practice into a grounded and deeply human approach. Her book Belonging has been translated into many languages and has touched readers around the world who carry that quiet ache of not quite fitting, and the deeper longing to come home to themselves.

Toko-pa shares her personal story, from growing up between mystical traditions to discovering Jung in her late teens, and how dreams became both refuge and guide during periods of violence, instability, and independence at a young age. We speak about why she moved away from interpretation and analysis, and toward what she calls a courtship with dreams, a way of listening that centers curiosity, presence, and respect for the dream’s own intelligence.

We explore how dreamwork builds real intimacy and belonging, not only with ourselves but within communities, and why sharing dreams together can soften loneliness and create lifelong bonds. Toko-pa speaks about technology, attention, and imagination, and how reclaiming space around sleep, mornings, and beauty can restore our capacity to dream, remember, and listen.

This conversation also touches on patience, slow growth, and the unseen processes that unfold behind closed doors, especially during times of crisis, grief, illness, and collective uncertainty.

If you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or quietly longing for guidance that does not come from outside authority, this episode offers a reminder of the wisdom already living within you, and simple ways to begin listening again.

You can find Toko-pa’s books, including The Dreaming Way and Belonging, and subscribe to her writing at toko-pa.com.

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I’m Joanna, the creator of Blue Lotus Queendom and co-author of Divine Dreamers. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been captivated by dreams and the hidden landscapes of the subconscious. That passion led me to study and practice dreamwork, Yoga Nidra, sound healing, and other rest-based modalities — all ways of accessing the liminal spaces where insight and healing emerge. Through my work, I help others find clarity, release exhaustion, and build trust in their own inner guidance so they can walk through life more aligned and whole.

Check out my website for blog post and other offerings related to dreams at https://www.bluelotusqueendom.com/.

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The information provided on this podcast is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.