Tattoos With Intention Podcast: Recent Episodes
Mark Nara
Mark Nara reveals insight into the finer details of the tattoo world. He has been tattooing for 10 years, helping people share their stories on their skin. Discover how you can feel more empowered and connected to the act of getting tattooed, deepening your reasons for receiving them. It includes information on his process, journal entry style updates from in the studio and on the road, clients stories and of course interviews with prominent tattooers and traditional wisdom keepers from around the globe.
In this episode I’m continuing with principle six and seven of the Tattoo Philosophy: tattoo time and integration.
I talk about tattoo time as one of the biggest differences between simply getting tattooed and actually walking the tattoo pathway. It’s the relationship between ordinary chronological time and the more elevated, meaningful moments that rise out of it. A tattoo can become one of those moments. Not just something that happened on a certain day, but a threshold, a landmark, a point of transformation that changes how you understand where you’ve been and where you’re going.
From there I move into integration. This is the return, the settling, the part people often skip. It’s the pause where a tattoo actually has time to land, where it becomes part of your story instead of just another mark or another experience. At its core, this episode is about rhythm, timing, reflection, and learning to move with tattooing in a way that is nourishing rather than draining.
TIMESTAMPS
- [00:00:00] Principle six and seven
- [00:00:16] What “tattoo time” actually is
- [00:01:06] Chronological time vs sacred time
- [00:03:09] What happens between tattoos matters
- [00:04:37] The season of approach
- [00:06:03] The season of action
- [00:07:10] The season of return
- [00:10:11] Principle seven: integration
- [00:11:42] Seeing the full shape of the process
- [00:15:17] The invitation: take what lands
WHEN YOU’RE READY
→ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark
→ Get tattooed by Mark
→ Explore the Tattoo Pathway
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Like this episode? Subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with someone who knows tattooing can be more than just the art.
In this episode I’m revisiting the next two principles in the Seven Principles of Tattoo Philosophy: mapping and purpose. I talk about mapping as one of the core tools in the Tattoo Pathway, not just to list someone’s tattoos, but to actually read them. The tattoo map, the body map, and the psychological map start to overlap, and what looks simple at first opens into something much deeper.
From there I move into purpose and programs. I speak about purpose as something tied to natural ability, joy, refinement, and a larger direction beyond the self. Then I contrast that with programs, the unconscious patterns and imprints that can get reinforced through tattoo experiences whether we realise it or not.
At its core, this episode is about how tattoos can either keep us looping the same patterns, or become tools for awareness, direction, and real change when they’re approached properly.
TIMESTAMPS
- [00:00:00] Revisiting Principle 4: Mapping
- [00:00:58] The tattoo map, body map, and psychological map
- [00:03:17] Why mapping can become deep, intense, and worth it
- [00:05:00] Tattoos as record-keeping technology
- [00:07:23] Mapping as excavation, not psychic reading
- [00:10:11] Principle 5: Programs and purpose
- [00:11:27] A simple three-part framework for purpose
- [00:12:59] Meaning, quest, and living a meaningful life
- [00:14:03] Programs: unconscious imprints beneath the tattoo process
- [00:17:50] Tattoos as moments of encoding and transformation
WHEN YOU’RE READY
→ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark
→ Get tattooed by Mark
→ Explore the Tattoo Pathway
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Like this episode? Subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with someone who knows tattooing can be more than just the art.
In this solo episode, Mark continues revisiting the original written material behind his first intentional tattoo course, moving into the second and third principles of tattoo philosophy: intention and the sacred. He explores why intention is more than a simple reason for getting tattooed, describing it instead as a living current or circuit between the person giving the tattoo and the person receiving it. From there, he opens up the idea of the sacred, not as something abstract or lofty, but as something elevated, reverent, and set apart from the everyday. This episode is about what happens when tattooing moves beyond decoration, impulse, and self-image, and becomes part of a deeper formative process.
[00:00:00] Principle 2: Intention[00:02:37] Why relationships come before intention[00:03:23] When movement is mistaken for progress[00:05:43] Letting go of old identities
[00:07:25] Principle 3: The Sacred[00:09:53] Why tattooing was sacred in older cultures[00:11:38] Opening dialogue with something greater[00:12:42] Tattooing as formative spiritual discipline[00:15:05] What if your next tattoo connected to the sacred?
WHEN YOU’RE READY
→ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark→ Get tattooed by Mark→ Explore the Tattoo Pathway
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Like this episode? Subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with someone who knows tattooing can be more than just the art.
In this solo episode, Mark returns to the original written material behind his first intentional tattoo course and opens it back up in podcast form. He shares the arc from street-shop apprenticeship and visual arts training into the deeper awareness that eventually became the Tattoo Pathway, then begins revisiting the seven principles of tattoo philosophy, starting with relationships.
Instead of treating tattoos as isolated designs or moments, Mark explores how they sit inside a much larger web: your relationship to your own tattoos, your relationship to the tattooist, and the tattooist’s relationship to the work itself. This is less about tattoos as objects and more about tattoos as part of a living story, an identity process, and a long-term path of coherence.
In this episode:
- [00:00:24] Why Mark is reopening the original tattoo philosophy material
- [00:03:16] How the Tattoo Pathway began
- [00:06:12] Why this work had to be road-tested over years
- [00:09:54] The first principle: relationships
- [00:16:44] The three core tattoo relationships
- [00:17:54] The three stages of the tattoo journey
- [00:20:37] The closing question: what is your relationship to your tattoos?
LINKS
Instagram: @themarkofnara
Instagram: @tattoopathway
Website: tattoopathway.com
WHEN YOU’RE READY
→ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark
→ Get tattooed by Mark
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Like this episode?
Hit the like button and subscribe for more.
Leave a comment if something landed, we’d love to hear from you.
Know a brand or business aligned with our message? Sponsor or collaborate with us: tattoopathway.com/contact
The top 10 tattoo searches reveal a lot more than just what styles are trending.
In this video, I break down what people are really asking when they search for tattoos. From tattoo shops near me and tattoo ideas, to do tattoos hurt, small tattoos, fine line tattoos, meaningful tattoos, first tattoo advice, and AI custom tattoo design.
More importantly, I unpack what these searches reveal about fear, commitment, symbolism, identity, and the changing tattoo industry.
0:00 Tattoo Trends Pulse
1:39 Tattoo Shops Near Me
4:12 Finding Real Tattoo Inspiration
7:30 Tattoo Symbols & Psychology
11:44 Do Tattoos Hurt?
14:29 Small Tattoo Minimalism Trend
15:34 Fine Line Tattoos (Do They Last?)
16:56 Tattoo Pricing Reality
18:36 Meaningful Tattoos (Common Mistake)
19:55 First Tattoo Mindset
22:35 AI Custom Tattoo Design Debate
25:14 Meaning & Life Framework
27:21 Wrap Up & Next Steps
This video digs into:
→ why searching locally might not always lead you to the right artist
→ why tattoo inspiration shouldn’t only come from trends or screens
→ what tattoo pain is actually like over a longer session
→ why tiny tattoos and fine line tattoos are booming
→ what makes a tattoo genuinely meaningful
→ how AI is changing the custom tattoo design process
A lot of people follow tattoo trends without really understanding what’s underneath them. My goal here is to unpack the psychology behind those searches and give both clients and tattoo artists a clearer read on what people are actually wrestling with before they commit.
TattooTrends #TattooPsychology #MeaningfulTattoos
LINKS
Substack: Everyday Initiation
Instagram: @themarkofnara
Instagram: @tattoopathway
Website: tattoopathway.com
WHEN YOU’RE READY
→ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark
→ Get tattooed by Mark
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more.Leave a comment if something landed, we’d love to hear from you.
Know a brand or business aligned with our message? Sponsor or collaborate with us: tattoopathway.com/contact
In this solo episode, Mark revisits a vivid dream from 2018 in which an artificial intelligence silently observed and documented his tattoo practice long before AI became part of daily life. From there, he opens the first entry in his Everyday Initiation Q&A series and explores what tattooing reveals when we stop treating it as “just art” and start seeing it as a thread in a much larger human story.
This episode moves through tattooing as memory, navigation, identity, coherence, and cultural diagnosis. It touches on prophecy, technology, initiation, and the possibility that humanity itself is now standing at a threshold similar to the ones tattooing has always marked in individual lives.
If you’ve ever felt that tattooing points to something deeper than aesthetics or self-expression, this episode opens that conversation wider.
LINKS
Substack: Everyday Initiation
Instagram: @themarkofnara
Instagram: @tattoopathway
Website: tattoopathway.com
WHEN YOU’RE READY
→ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark
→ Get tattooed by Mark
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more.
Leave a comment if something landed, we’d love to hear from you.
Know a brand or business aligned with our message? Sponsor or collaborate with us: tattoopathway.com/contact
TIMESTAMPS
[00:00:10] Why this solo episode exists
[00:01:03] Everyday Initiation and the wider tattoo story
[00:02:32] The dream: AI watching the tattoo process
[00:04:45] From strange dream to lived reality
[00:06:10] Humanity at a threshold with AI
[00:07:58] Why Mark used AI for this Q&A
[00:09:32] “This isn’t really about tattooing”
[00:10:35] Tattooing as a thread in a bigger lattice
[00:11:50] Tattoos as cultural pulse-check and diagnosis
[00:13:05] Memory, navigation, and what the skin records
[00:14:18] Weaving the sacred back into self and community
[00:15:42] Reflection: what threads have shaped your life?
Guest: Tattooist Lars Widell (British Columbia, Canada)
Themes: graffiti origins, stone masonry, music, apprenticeship era, fasting for healing, spiritual practice, big multi-day sessions, trust and Revelation imagery, offering rites of passage in 2026.
Episode summary
Mark and Lars trace a path from freight-line graffiti and stone masonry to a mature tattoo practice shaped by music, meditation, and faith. Lars shares how a long experiment with fasting and cold water reshaped his tattoo healing and presence in the chair, why he sold his studio, and how he now guides select clients through deeper, more devotional work. The back-piece story covers trust, Revelation’s seven-horn sheep, and learning to “go to the needle” and feel vibration rather than pain. Lars also outlines a simple fasting-supported healing protocol that cut his heal time roughly in half. Not medical advice.
Links
Guest: @lars.alexander.widell
Mark: @themarkofnara | @tattoopathway | @jadecicada.tattoo
When you are ready→ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark→ Get tattooed by Mark
Recommended next episode→ Ep 34. Artist to Guide with Lluna Soul Ink
Support the show
Like and subscribe for more conversations.
Comment with your takeaway or question.
Brands or studios aligned with our message can collaborate or sponsor via support@tattoopathway.com
Timestamps
[00:00:00] Music, tattoos, and balance
[00:02:17] Farm kid to freight graffiti
[00:06:12] First tattoo and fatherhood
[00:07:05] Stone masonry as rhythm
[00:11:53] 2008 crash to apprenticeship
[00:12:28] Seeing Steve Moore’s color
[00:16:34] From biker era to trade talk
[00:19:26] Fasting: the long experiment
[00:21:21] Refeeding risks and recovery
[00:24:30] Chest and throat energy work
[00:30:55] Day 21: inflammation reset
[00:32:44] Adhesive reaction and cold water
[00:35:39] Fasting protocol that halves healing
[00:40:00] Past the pain: feel vibration
[00:43:10] Two artists, five days, back piece
[00:45:33] Trust, Revelation, seven-horn sheep
[00:48:20] Healed in two and a half days
[01:00:25] Rites of passage offering in 2026
Mark speaks with Lluna of Lluna Soul Ink about stepping from artist into guide, building devotional space, and using tattoo mapping to turn tattoos into living records. They trace her early Berlin years, informal apprenticeship, and the shift that came through the Tattoo Pathway community. Practical talk on boundaries, cancellations as energy, listening with all senses, and holding a frame that is safe and clear. Lluna also shares festival talks in Europe, placement questions she gets asked most, and her vision for a small retreat style space near Berlin.
Links
Guest site: llunasoul.comInstagram: llunasoul.ink
When you are ready→ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark→ Get tattooed by Mark
Recommended next episode→ EP 32. Sand, Symbols and Metamorphosis with April
Support the showLike and subscribe for more conversations.
Comment with your takeaway or question.
Brand or studio aligned with our message? Collaborate or sponsor: tattoopathway.com/contact
Timestamps[00:00:00] Welcome and why this conversation[00:01:05] Ten years in: early starts and Berlin beginnings[00:02:31] Australia years and traction in the studio[00:03:22] Language: artist and guide, tattoos with intention[00:03:58] Finding Mark and the Tattoo Pathway work[00:05:06] Courses and tea ceremony as the opening frame[00:06:50] Boundaries, cancellations, and reading the energy[00:08:38] A firmer foundation and less doubt in practice[00:12:28] Beyond the image: what we print in the skin[00:12:48] Mapping as method: skin as a life map[00:14:39] Using mapping with every client[00:16:30] Festival talks: placement questions and strong interest[00:18:40] Why intentional space matters for change[00:21:36] Body maps that stay simple and useful[00:23:03] Stepping into the role of teacher in public[00:26:32] Devotional space: getting yourself out of the way[00:28:24] What lights her up: long term client bonds[00:30:53] Advice to artists: community, fundamentals, reflection[00:33:22] Next steps: Europe base and retreat style vision[00:37:26] Staying open to cycles and places[00:39:15] Where to find Lluna and how to connect
Connect with Mark and Tattoo PathwayInstagram: @themarkofnara | @tattoopathwayWebsite: https://tattoopathway.com
In this conversation, Mark and Josh trace a 33-year arc of tattooing—from ’90s street-shop grit and tribal magazines to private studios, bikie threats, and rebuilding community.
Josh shares early sparks (drawing on siblings, an art-teacher mum), his first experiences at Illustrated Man, the rise of custom work, and why a good street shop can still be a true neighbourhood heartbeat.
We dive into identity vs discovery psychology, cultural lineage vs contemporary mix, apprenticeships vs quick courses, social media’s specialisation trap, when to say no ethically, and what it means to put presence over popularity in the chair.
If you care about the craft and the culture, this one’s a map and a mirror.
LINKS
- Josh's Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/tatudharma/
WHEN YOU’RE READY
→ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark
→ Get Tattooed by Mark
RECOMMENDED NEXT EPISODE
→ 19. Phillip Milic: Tattooing’s Evolving Culture – A Veterans Perspective
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more.
Leave a comment if something landed – we’d love to hear from you.
Know a brand or business aligned with our message? Sponsor or collaborate with us: tattoopathway.com/contact
TIMESTAMPS
[00:00:00] Why Tattoos Hooked Me (remote childhood, Nat Geo spark)
[00:01:51] First Studio Reality Check (Illustrated Man, Kim changes everything)
[00:04:15] Designing Our First Pieces (from cliché to considered)
[00:05:57] Meaning vs. Aesthetic (initiation, identity, appropriation)
[00:08:54] Street Shop = Community Engine (why it still matters)
[00:11:45] The New Problem Set (courses, saturation, skipped apprenticeships)
[00:28:32] Apprenticeship > Online Course (what real learning looks like)
[00:33:13] Algorithm Ink (how tech reshaped tattoo culture)
[00:41:47] Phones, Trains & Small Talk (connection is a skill)
[00:50:51] Instagram vs. Presence (the chair-side experience wins)
[00:57:18] Specialist Trap vs. Generalist Freedom
[01:08:48] From Churn to Ceremony (private studio intimacy)
[01:21:18] When the Shop Burned Down (what it taught me)
[01:22:58] Byron Reset (rebuilding community and pace)
[01:33:05] The Emotional Load (boundaries, saying no, tough calls)
[01:39:37] Fit, Placement & Regret-Proofing (how we decide)
[01:59:23] Tattoos for Your 2050 Self (longevity & planning)
[02:12:12] Should Tattooers Get Tattooed? (the debate)
[02:20:22] Numbing Cream: When, Why, Risks
[02:23:13] Real Advice for New Artists (skills, mindset, business)
[02:24:54] Closing + Self-Care (stay human)
In this conversation, Mark and April explore how play, symbols, and intention open real thresholds of change. April shares her path from disability support work into Jungian sandplay therapy, why the subconscious chooses the right symbols before we do, and how a pair of intentional tattoos (“Letting Go of Fear” / “Letting Love In”) became a living practice.
We get into metamorphosis as a template (egg → caterpillar → chrysalis → butterfly), her project The Quiet Space, writing Pain as a Portal, an unexpected health initiation that forced deep embodiment, and how ecstatic dance (Dancing Freedom) moves energy through the elements - earth, water, fire, air, ether. If you’re navigating discomfort or longing for transformation, this one’s a field guide made of stories.
LINKS
-
- Website: The Untold Space
- Book: Pain as a Portal
- WHEN YOU’RE READY
- → Book a 1:1 consult with Mark
- → Get Tattooed by Mark
RECOMMENDED NEXT EPISODE
- → EP 18. Tattoo Therapy and Suffering Well - With Lee Trew
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more.
Leave a comment if something landed – we’d love to hear from you.
Know a brand or business aligned with our message? Sponsor or collaborate with us: tattoopathway.com/contact
TIMESTAMPS
[00:00:04] Two “guides,” one conversation
[00:01:12] Sandplay 101: Jung, trays, and living symbols
[00:03:35] The subconscious chooses—then shows you the next step
[00:05:21] Working with youth (and why adults can still play)
[00:07:06] Altars everywhere: reading life’s symbolic language
[00:09:46] When the story doesn’t match the symbols
[00:15:59] Tattoos as thresholds: fear out, love in
[00:17:25] Ceremony in the studio: intention changes everything
[00:22:13] Naming a practice: from Blue Soul to The Untold Space
[00:26:40] The Quiet Space: six months of communal stillness
[00:29:37] Pain as a Portal and the butterfly template
[00:34:54] Watching metamorphosis (literally) changes the work
[00:39:06] Burnout, blood, and a body-led initiation
[00:41:59] From head to body: integration as a survival skill
[00:48:04] Dancing Freedom: earth → water → fire → air → ether
[00:52:02] Purification vs transformation (and choosing harmony)
[00:55:17] The Diamond Metamorphosis Template (12 facets)
[00:57:12] Celebrate chrysalis → butterfly (don’t just rush ahead)
[01:01:01] A practice you can do now: say hello to the discomfort
@themarkofnara
@tattoopathway
tattoopathway.com
In our first video episode, Mark and Caiyuda trace tattoos as living thresholds: from flaming-dice initiation at 18, to a decade of silence, to ancestry-rooted markings and sacred geometry as integration. We get into rites of passage vs initiation, plant-teacher apprenticeship in Peru, reclaiming Filipino lineage through traditional motifs, being visible online without losing integrity, and the sacred hunt as a way back into the web of life.
LINKS
- Instagram: @caiyudakiora
- Podcast: Birdsong with Caiyuda (Spotify, YouTube, Apple)
- Website: caiyudakiora.com
WHEN YOU’RE READY
→ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark
→ Get Tattooed by Mark
RECCOMENDED NEXT EPISODE
→ 22. Shane Coley – Energetic Alignments and Ancestral Resonance in Tattooing
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more.
Leave a comment if something landed – we’d love to hear from you.
Know a brand or business aligned with our message? Sponsor or collaborate with us: tattoopathway.com/contact
[00:00:04] First video episode, why this one matters
[00:02:03] “Just another guy” - anti-pedestal humility
[00:06:04] Breakup mirror: the painful turn inward
[00:10:36] From drugs to sacraments: a 180° reframing
[00:11:06] Raindrop / lightning: the calling lands
[00:11:59] Six months later: Peru, ayahuasca & wachuma
[00:16:20] Flaming dice at 18 - pain, threshold, initiation
[00:23:30] Identity on skin: bands, “be the change,” jaguar
[00:28:19] “The plants saved my life” - from self to relation
[00:34:00] Rite of passage vs initiation - clean distinctions
[00:43:40] Returning to Philippines: lineage, tattoos, repair
[00:51:10] Armour & order: Filipino motifs + sacred geometry
[00:54:50] Being seen online: voice, Chiron, and boundaries
[01:08:00] Sacred hunt: reverence over factory-farmed distance
[01:20:30] Soul (descent) vs Spirit (ascent); Plotkin’s lens
[01:27:20] On thresholds: answer the call, honour the season
- @themarkofnara @tattoopathway
tattoopathway.com
In this episode Mark Nara explores the deeper dimensions of sacred geometry – not just as a visual trend, but as a symbolic language that connects our bodies, our stories, and the cosmos.
He breaks down the three layers of mathematics (quantitative, symbolic, and sacred), shares reflections on how geometry shapes meaning, and examines the risks of unanchored design in modern tattooing. Drawing from thinkers like Michael Schneider and Dr. Ibrahim Karim, this episode challenges the surface-level use of geometric forms and invites you to consider how tattooing can become a contemplative, energetic, and deeply aligned practice.
Whether you're an artist, a seeker, or someone drawn to sacred symbols, this episode offers new insight into how geometry lives through us – and on us.
LINKS
Michael S. Schneider
Shane Coley
WHEN YOU’RE READY
→ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark
→ Get Tattooed by Mark
→ Join the FREE Community
RECOMENDED NEXT EPISODE
→ 22. Shane Coley – Energetic Alignments and Ancestral Resonance in Tattooing
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more.
Leave a comment if something landed – we’d love to hear from you.
Know a brand or business aligned with our message? Sponsor or collaborate with us : tattoopathway.com/contact
TIMESTAMPS
[00:01:12] – What Sacred Geometry Really Is[
00:03:42] – Quantitative vs. Symbolic vs. Sacred Mathematics
[00:06:12] – Defining "Sacred" as a State, Not a Thing
[00:11:30] – Geometry as a Study of Harmony and Creation
[00:13:21] – Ancient Worldviews and the Language of Pattern
[00:15:04] – Fractals, Spirals & the Holographic Universe
[00:16:14] – Tattooing as Microcosm of the Cosmos
[00:17:28] – Dark Matter, Spirals, and Galactic Intelligence
[00:19:32] – Tattoo Placement and Energetic Alignment
[00:20:58] – The Risk of Unanchored Geometry
[00:21:50] – The Importance of Specific Placement
[00:23:25] – Sacred Body Maps & Vertical Alignment
[00:23:33] – Archetypes in Sacred Geometry
[00:24:45] – Choosing Design Based on Frequency, Not Form
[00:25:45] – BioGeometry and Shape Resonance
[00:26:19] – Tattoos as Contemplative Practice
[00:27:10] – Living Meaningfully Before Tattooing Intentionally
[00:27:34] – Tattoo as Ritual, Not Just Transaction
[00:29:19] – Final Reflections & Invitation to Go Deeper
In this episode of Tattoos With Intention, Mark is joined by Taylor, Tattoo Pathway's research lead, to unpack the complex topic of tattoo regret and how tattoos influence our self-perception and identity. Drawing from a comprehensive survey conducted last year, they dive into the most common reasons people experience regret and explore how tattoos can either conceal or reveal our true selves.
Whether you're considering your first tattoo, reflecting on past tattoos, or exploring the deeper meaning of body art, this episode offers valuable insights.
WHEN YOU’RE READY
→ Book a 1:1 consult with Mark
→ Get Tattooed by Mark
→ Join the FREE Community
RELATED EPISODES
→ 17. Ego or Integrity – Discerning the Two in Tattooing – with James Sherrah
→ 27. Pathways and Progress: Navigating Your Tattoo Psychology in 2025
SUPPORT THE SHOW
Like this episode? Hit the like button and subscribe for more.
Leave a comment if something landed—we’d love to hear from you.
Know a brand or business aligned with our message?
Sponsor or collaborate with us: tattoopathway.com/contact
[00:00:00] – Introduction
[00:00:25] – The Five Reasons for Tattoo Regret
[00:01:35] – “Tattoos Are More Than Just…”
[00:03:09] – Survey Overview
[00:04:56] – The Meaning Changing Over Time
[00:05:39] – Risk Window: Ages 18-25
[00:08:43] – Internal vs. External Motivations
[00:09:12] – Placement Regret
[00:12:22] – Technical Dissatisfaction
[00:15:22] – Artist Input and Influence
[00:18:47] – Mismatched Expectations
[00:28:01] – Tattoos and Self-Perception
[00:31:10] – Revealing vs. Concealing Self
[00:37:17] – Tattoos as Navigational Tools
[00:42:20] – Self-Responsibility in Tattooing
[00:46:00] – Mapping and Reflection
[00:51:45] – Embracing Change in Meaning
[00:55:20] – The Value of Discomfort
[01:00:00] – Closing Thoughts
Welcome to the Tattoos with Intention Podcast, presented by the Tattoo Pathway Research and Education Institute! In this episode, Taylor, our lead researcher, engages in a compelling conversation with Dr. Daniel Franz—licensed mental health counsellor, addictions specialist, and expert in Viktor Frankl’s Logotherapy.
Together, they explore how Logotherapy's core concepts—self-responsibility, resilience, and self-transcendence—can guide us in living a meaningful life. Dr. Franz shares practical tools for cultivating meaning in everyday life, emphasising the power of intentional choices, community connection, and using life’s challenges as opportunities for growth. They also discuss how living a meaningful life directly influences the experience of meaningful tattoos.
If you’re searching for ways to integrate deeper purpose into your life and tattoo journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights!
🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES
- Dr. Daniel Franz: https://danielafranz.com/
- The Meaning Project Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxNSpXYgXKQJU1iR-4n1GO
- A Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl: https://amzn.to/4hFAtr4
🤙 REACH OUT
- Tattoo consultations: https://tattoopathway.com/consult/
- Join the Tattoo Pathway Community: https://tattoopathway.com/community/
- Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themarkofnara
00:00 Introduction to Tattoos with Intention Podcast01:00 Today's Episode: Conversation with Dr. Daniel Franz02:12 Exploring Logotherapy and Meaningful Tattoos05:08 Viktor Frankl's Legacy and Logotherapy09:37 Self-Responsibility and Meaningful Choices13:51 Turning Challenges into Growth16:31 Self-Transcendence and Community21:16 Practical Steps for Living Intentionally26:39 Embracing Healthy Inner Tension30:58 Exploring the Crisis of Meaning31:42 Reframing Challenges as Opportunities32:51 The Empowering Aspect of Logotherapy33:35 Using Emotions as Signals35:08 Practical Strategies for Navigating Inner Tension39:22 The Hero's Journey and Personal Transformation44:25 Building Resilience for a Meaningful Life53:02 Final Thoughts on Meaning and Resilience.
In this solo episode, listeners are invited to reflect on their tattoo journeys and the concept of 'dignified beauty.' Mark highlights the achievements of Tattoo Pathway in 2024, the importance of intentional tattooing, and the role of the community in supporting transformative experiences. Through the analogy of shoes and tattoos, he explores the discomforts and misconceptions in contemporary tattoo culture and emphasizes the need for guidance and careful consideration in the tattooing process. The episode sets the stage for the year 2025 with the theme of 'convergence,' aiming to bring the community together for co-creating a more meaningful and spiritually aligned tattooing experience.
00:00 - Welcome to Tattoos With Intention 2025
00:24 - Celebrating Wins and Aiming for the Future
00:51 - Building the Tattoo Pathway Community
01:18 - Exploring Contemporary Tattoo Culture and Psychology
03:13 - The Founding of Tattoo Pathway
05:25 - Understanding Dignified Beauty
08:10 - The Need for Guidance in Tattoo Journeys
11:11 - The Shoe Analogy: Fitting Tattoos to Your Life
14:13 - Dealing with Tattoo Regret and Misrepresentation
19:05 - The Role of Discomfort in Growth
21:07 - The Problem with Conventional Shoes
21:27 - Transitioning to Minimal Footwear
22:09 - Discomfort and Growth
22:49 - Tattoo Psychology and Confirmation Bias
23:59 - Tattooing as a Rite of Passage
25:08 - Comfort vs. Discomfort in Tattooing
26:26 - The Role of Tattoos in Personal Growth
29:49 - Tattoo Pathway: A New Approach
33:54 - The Tattoo Pathway Community
40:53 - Conclusion and Invitation to Join
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Instagram: @themarkofnara | @tattoopathway
Join the Waitlist for the Community – Be a founding member and elevate your tattoo journey in 2025
In this episode of the Tattoos with Intention podcast, Taylor from the Tattoo Pathway team hosts a profound discussion with cultural tattoo practitioner Lane Wilcken.
As a scholar and advocate for the traditional tattooing practices of the Philippines, particularly Batok, Lane delves into the spiritual and cultural significance of these ancestral markings. The conversation explores the importance of emotional, mental, and spiritual readiness for both those giving and receiving tattoos, and the distinction between tattoo artists and practitioners. The episode highlights the rigorous process of becoming a practitioner, the ethical considerations involved, and the importance of maintaining integrity and humility.
Lane also emphasises the avoidance of cultural appropriation and the necessity of connecting with one's own cultural ancestry. The discussion concludes with Lane advocating for a shift in mainstream tattoo culture towards more meaningful and sacred practices.
- 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
- 02:16 The Question of Worthiness in Tattooing
- 03:31 Lane's Journey and Advice for Practitioners
- 04:18 The Calling of a Tattoo Practitioner
- 06:15 Humility and the Tattoo Industry
- 07:32 Physical and Mental Challenges of Traditional Tattooing
- 08:43 Spiritual and Energetic Considerations
- 09:37 Rituals and Taboos in Tattooing
- 16:49 Gatekeeping Knowledge and Sacred Practices
- 29:36 Cultural Identity and Unique Designs
- 32:31 Understanding Cultural Sensitivity in Tattooing
- 34:21 The Importance of Qualified Practitioners
- 34:45 Revealing vs. Concealing Tattoos
- 36:03 Avoiding Cultural Appropriation
- 38:29 Researching Ancestral Tattoo Practices
- 43:26 The Mission of Kata'o Living Traditions
- 45:52 Challenges in Traditional Tattooing
- 50:05 Decolonization and Cultural Reconnection
- 53:22 Empowerment Through Ancestral Tattoos
- 55:17 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
FOLLOW
Instagram: @lanewilcken
Website: LaneWilcken.com
Books: Filipino Tattoos: Ancient to Modern
Instagram: @themarkofnara
Tattoo Pathway – Tattoo Education and Research Institute
In this episode of the Tattoos with Intention podcast, host Taylor interviews Lane Wilcken, a scholar and practitioner of Filipino cultural tattoos. They discuss Lane's journey into the study and revival of indigenous Filipino tattooing, the cultural and spiritual significance of the tattoos, the role of tattoos in conveying ancestral guidance and social status, and Lane’s efforts to educate and restore traditional practices. Lane also shares personal anecdotes and highlights the importance of understanding the cultural context to ensure meaningful tattoo experiences. The conversation looks into how traditional tattoos are linked to rituals and health benefits, the process of earning and receiving tattoos, and the pitfalls of modern commercial tattoo practices.
- 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
- 00:41 Interview with Lane Wilkin: Scholar and Cultural Tattoo Practitioner
- 02:05 Lane's Journey into Filipino Tattooing
- 04:34 Reviving Traditional Filipino Tattoos
- 07:17 Cultural Significance and Rituals of Filipino Tattoos
- 10:59 Challenges and Responsibilities in Cultural Tattooing
- 18:25 Contrasting Modern and Traditional Tattoo Practices
- 26:14 Historical Context and Cultural Erasure
- 36:36 The Cultural Context of Head Hunting and Tattooing
- 37:14 The Inclusive Nature of Cultural Tattooing
- 37:21 Western Individualism vs. Cultural Tattooing
- 38:07 The Wisdom of Ancient Tattoo Practices
- 39:17 The Health Benefits of Traditional Tattoos
- 41:17 A Case Study: Fertility Tattoos
- 45:34 Modern Motivations for Tattooing
- 47:13 The Intrinsic Functions of Tattooing
- 58:06 The Navigational Aid of Tattoos
- 01:06:15 The Transformational Power of Tattoos
- 01:10:45 Addressing Tattoo Regret in Western Culture
- 01:11:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Instagram: @lanewilcken
Website: LaneWilcken.com
Books: Filipino Tattoos: Ancient to Modern
Instagram: @themarkofnara
Tattoo Pathway – Tattoo Education and Research Institute
In the first episode of the new educational series, Mark unpacks the concept of spiritual tattoos. The discussion centres around the intrinsic connection between tattoos and spirituality, and how each tattoo symbolises an individual's journey and transformation.
Emphasis is placed on the importance of intention, the pitfalls of commercialised spiritual tattooing, and the role of universal and personal symbols in this process.
The episode also touches on the communal and ceremonial aspects of tattooing, self-responsibility, and choosing the right artist. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their motivations and approach the tattooing process with care and respect.
- 00:00 - Introduction to Tattoos with Intention
- 01:25 - Exploring Spiritual Tattoos
- 03:31 - The Connection Between Spirit and Tattoo
- 16:18 - Understanding Symbols and Their Meanings
- 22:13 - The Role of Intention and Responsibility
- 23:51 - Tattoos as Initiation and Ceremony
- 29:52 - Choosing the Right Artist
- 31:05 - Avoiding Pitfalls in Spiritual Tattooing
- 34:43 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Instagram: @themarkofnara | @tattoopathway
What is a Spiritual Tattoo? - original blog post version of this podcast
Tattoo Pathway – Tattoo Education and Research Institute
In this episode of the Tattoos with Intention podcast, host Mark Nara interviews moko artist Turumakina Duley.
They discuss the significance of traditional Maori tattooing and rites of passage. Tu recounts his journey into tattooing, beginning with his childhood exposure to cultural performance and his deepening connection to Maori heritage. He shares insights from his doctoral thesis on rites of passage and the importance of re-establishing traditional practices within Maori communities.
The conversation explores the psychological, communal, and transformative impacts of moko and emphasizes the importance of collective rituals and mentorship. Listeners are invited to delve deeper into the cultural and personal narratives that shape meaningful tattoo experiences.
- 00:00 Welcome and Introduction
- 00:50 Meeting Turumakina Duley
- 02:52 Turumakina’s Early Life and Tattoo Beginnings
- 05:49 Mentorship and Moko Revival
- 09:00 Rites of Passage and Cultural Significance
- 21:50 Challenges and Adaptations in Modern Times
- 29:34 Morning Rituals
- 29:41 The Importance of Rituals
- 30:43 Reviving Maori Cultural Practices
- 33:23 Global Initiations and Dark Shadows
- 37:20 Tattooing as a Rite of Passage
- 44:31 Mixed Genealogies and Cultural Connections
- 48:35 Concluding Thoughts and Resources
FOLLOW
Instagram: @artselemental | @tu_moko
Website: Arts Elemental
Books:
- The Power of Myth – Joseph Campbell
- The Archetype of Initiation – Robert L. Moore
- King, Warrior, Magician, Lover: Rediscovering the Archetypes of the Mature – Robert Moore and Douglas Gillette
Instagram: @themarkofnara
Tattoo Pathway – Tattoo Education and Research Institute
In this episode of Tattoos with Intention Mark welcomes back Shane Gallagher Coley, a technically proficient and spiritually adept tattooist. They engage in an expansive discussion on tattooing, touching on the cultural, spiritual, and energetic impacts of tattoos. Shane shares insights on how tattoo patterns and symbols connect individuals to their ancestors, influence energy frequencies, and serve as methods of spiritual healing. The conversation also goes into ancient practices such as the significance of shapes and frequencies in designs and how these contribute to energetic alignments. Shane introduces his upcoming book and workshops aimed at educating others on these profound connections and techniques in intentional tattooing.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:48 Meet Shane Gallagher Coley
00:58 Exploring Tattoo Artistry and Spirituality
02:01 Understanding Energetic Impact of Tattoos
03:42 Ancient Knowledge and Resonance
06:42 The Concept of Resonance in Tattoos
11:09 Creating Energetic Instruments
17:41 The Mystery of Crop Circles
25:23 Identity, Ancestry, and Tattooing
37:03 The Impact of Generational Trauma
37:30 Understanding Genetic Resonance
38:32 Epigenetics and Ancestral Patterns
39:53 Cultural Significance of Tattoo Patterns
41:08 Revival of Traditional Tattoo Practices
42:34 The Current State of the Tattoo Industry
45:03 Intentional and Conscious Tattooing
47:40 Shane's Upcoming Book and Workshops
50:17 The Energenosis Concept
54:59 Radiesthesia and Energy Alignment
01:00:03 The Role of Tears in Cultural Rituals
01:06:50 Engaging with Ancient Knowledge
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Instagram: @shanetattooer
Crop circle video and Shanes energetic instrument
Instagram: @themarkofnara
Want to help increase our collective knowledge of tattooing? Participate in the Tattoo Pathway Insights Survey - Contribute your story
In this unique podcast episode, the hosts present a semi-annual update and introduce the Tattoo Pathway Education and Research Institute. Breaking from the usual interview format, they discuss the launch of a new fundamentals course focusing on transforming the tattoo experience through conscious engagement.
Taylor Deakin, who has joined as the research lead, shares insights about her role and the team's work, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and responsibility in tattooing.
The episode also talks about the mapping exercise facilitated by the new Tattoo Pathway Journal app and outlines the mission and vision of the institute. The hosts invite listeners to participate in the upcoming course and contribute to ongoing research through surveys.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:41 The Research Component03:35 Understanding Tattoo Patterns09:07 The Significance of Tattooing13:42 Tattoo Pathway's Educational Approach21:52 Taylor's Background and Role31:53 The Tattoo Pathway Journal App39:06 Conclusion and Course Information
Website: tattoopathway.com
Join the Tattoo Pathway Fundamentals Course Waitlist
Learn about our Research - Participate in the Tattoo Insights Survey
Instagram: @themarkofnara
In this episode, Moko-nui-a-rangi Smith, shares his deep insights into the cultural significance of Māori tattooing and its connection to cultural identity. He discusses the importance of events at marae, such as wānanga (intense cultural seminars) in grounding Māori identity and sparking a desire to return to traditional arts. Smith recounts his journey from theatre to moko, the mentorship and the intricate process of making traditional tattooing tools.
The episode also highlights the challenges and responsibilities of tattooing within and outside Māori culture, emphasising the importance of authenticity, cultural context, and personal growth.
Finally, the discussion touches on ideas for maintaining a healthy tattooing process and the profound impact of traditional practices on individual and community identity.
00:00 Introduction
00:35 Geographical and Cultural Roots
01:16 Life in Auckland and Connection to Rotorua
01:47 The Importance of Family and Cultural Events
02:53 Moko Wānanga: Cultural Seminars and Tattooing Practices
04:26 The Evolution of Moko and Addressing Modern Challenges
06:11 Personal Journey into Tattooing and Cultural Identity
20:18 Learning and Crafting Traditional Tools
25:24 Theatre Background and Transition to Tattooing
26:30 Mentorship and Learning the Craft
28:03 The Rise of Moko in the 80s and 90s
28:50 Learning and Evolution of Tattooing Techniques
29:27 The Cultural Significance and Revival of Tā Moko
31:54 Adapting Traditional Tools for Modern Tattooing
33:32 The Importance of Process in Tattooing
35:12 Intergenerational Transmission and Cultural Identity
43:24 Guidance for a Healthy Tattoo Process
48:33 Balancing Work, Training, and Community
52:45 Support and Collaboration Among Artists
FOLLOW
Instagram: @uhi_tapu
skindigenous series
Māori TV & News
Join the Tattoo Pathway Fundamentals Course Waitlist
Instagram: @themarkofnara
For more insights and discussions on intentional tattooing, join the Tattoos with Intention Podcast community Facebook group.
This episode of the 'Tattoos with Intention' podcast features a conversation with veteran tattoo artist Phillip Millich, exploring the cultural shift in the tattoo industry from its roots in rebellion and community to a more commercial and individualistic present. Throughout the discussion, Phillip shares his journey into tattooing, the impact of societal changes on the craft, and the importance of maintaining the sacredness and spiritual significance of tattoos.
As a craftsman, Phillip reflects on the changes in the industry, including the impact of technology and social media, while advocating for preserving the traditional aspects of tattooing. The talk also delves into Phillip's personal beliefs and values formed during his early years in the punk scene, touching on the importance of struggle and authenticity within the tattooing profession.
- 00:39 Exploring Intentional Tattooing with Phillip Millich
- 02:15 Phillip's Tattoo Journey: Beginnings and Beliefs
- 05:21 The Evolution of Tattoo Culture and Personal Values
- 06:20 Tattooing as a Reflection of Societal Changes
- 10:22 The Art and Ethics of Tattooing
- 24:30 Tattoo Shops: From Speakeasies to Modern Studios
- 29:09 Reflecting on the Tattoo Industry's Transformation
- 32:23 Navigating Offense and Resilience in Tattoo Culture
- 33:36 The Lost Art of Tattooing and Its Cultural Significance
- 36:51 Challenging Modern Tattoo Practices and Spirituality
- 37:54 Personal Approach to Tattooing: Rituals, Realness, and Relationships
- 45:29 Reflecting on the Evolution of Tattoo Equipment and Techniques
- 47:39 The Impact of Social Media and Technology on Tattooing
- 51:39 Navigating Life's Material and Spiritual Dilemmas
- 01:01:02 Concluding Thoughts on Tattooing, Materialism, and Seeking Happiness
FOLLOW
Instagram: @pmtattoos
Join the Tattoo Pathway Fundamentals Course Waitlist
Instagram: @themarkofnara
For more insights and discussions on intentional tattooing, join the Tattoos with Intention Podcast community Facebook group.
On today’s episode of Tattoos with Intention, I have the pleasure of speaking with Lee. Lee is not only a client of mine but also a guide and therapist. Lee discusses his experience of getting a tattoo, and how the tattoo has helped him to grow and change.
Key Points Discussed:
- Finding the right tattoo artist: Lee discusses the importance of finding a tattoo artist who is a good fit for you, someone who can create a tattoo that has meaning for you.
- The importance of intention: Lee talks about how he knew he wanted an intentional tattoo, rather than just a cool tattoo. He describes the moment he felt a “yes” and knew that getting tattooed was the right path for him.
- The tattoo as a journey: Lee discusses his experience of getting tattooed as a journey of self-discovery. He talks about how the tattoo helped him to connect with his own inner wisdom and purpose.
- The therapeutic aspects of tattooing: Lee, who is a therapist himself, discusses the therapeutic aspects of getting tattooed. He talks about how the tattooing process can be a way of working through past trauma and experiences.
- Living a meaningful life: Lee talks about the importance of living a meaningful life in order to get a meaningful tattoo. He says that if you’re not living a meaningful life, then the tattoo won’t have the same impact.
- The archetypes of tattoos: Mark mentions that he has been thinking about the archetypes of tattoos, and that Lee’s tattoo can be seen as representing the “more mature stage” of comprehension and participation in intentional living.
FOLLOW
Instagram: @lee_trew
ConnectionCulture.life – Psychotherapy Training
BluegumBushcraft.com.au – Family Camps and Bushcraft Mentoring
WildHeart.life – Deep Rewilding, Vision quest and Survival quest
Join the Tattoo Pathway Fundamentals Course Waitlist
Instagram: @themarkofnara
For more insights and discussions on intentional tattooing, join the Tattoos with Intention Podcast community Facebook group.
This transcript is of a conversation between Mark Nara and James, a client of Mark's who has been getting tattooed by him for several years. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including James's early tattoos, his experiences with addiction and mental health, and the role that tattooing has played in his life.Key Points
- Intentional tattooing: The importance of approaching tattoos with intention and awareness, rather than focusing solely on the aesthetic or artistic aspects.
- The impact of tattoos: How tattoos can influence the wearer's life and identity, both positively and negatively.
- Unconscious intentions: The potential for tattoos to embody unconscious beliefs, patterns, and stories that can impact the wearer's life.
- The role of the tattoo artist: Choosing a tattoo artist who aligns with your values and can guide you through the intentional tattooing process.
- James's tattoo journey: James shares his personal experience of getting tattooed, from his early, impulsive choices to his later, more intentional approach.
- Cover-ups and transformation: The process of covering up old tattoos that no longer resonate with the wearer and using tattoos to facilitate personal transformation.
- Discerning ego from integrity: How to distinguish between getting tattooed for personal validation (ego) and getting tattooed for reasons that align with your deeper values and integrity.
- The power of intentional tattooing: The potential for tattoos to serve as powerful tools for self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.
The conversation also touches on a number of other topics, including the role of men's work in James's life, his experiences with breathwork, and his views on ceremonial tattooing.
FOLLOW
James: @jamesszen
Join the Tattoo Pathway Fundamentals Course Waitlist
Instagram: @themarkofnara
For more insights and discussions on intentional tattooing, join the Tattoos with Intention Podcast community Facebook group.
In this episode of the Tattoos with Intention podcast, Mark interviews a recent client, Corey, where they delve into his personal journey in tattoos, the intentional process, the waiting period before getting tattoos, and how tattoos provide insight into life experiences. They also touch on aspects of tattoo finances, trust in the artist, and the impact of getting tattoos at the right time.
00:03 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:20 The Importance of Intention in Tattooing
00:36 Announcement: Tattoo Pathway Coursework
01:22 Interview with Corey: A Client's Perspective
02:18 The Tattoo Process: A Personal Journey
02:41 The Decision to Get Tattooed: A Long Consideration
04:43 The Meaning Behind the Tattoos
09:21 The Tattooing Experience: A Balance of Energies
12:21 Reflecting on the Tattoo Journey
16:37 The Impact of Tattoos on Personal Identity
21:13 The Psychological Impact of Tattoos
22:14 The Importance of Patience in Tattooing
22:56 The Tattooing Process: From Arrival to Departure
23:28 The Significance of Time and Distance in Tattooing
24:13 The Deep Conversations During Tattoo Sessions
25:08 The Influence of Life Experiences on Tattoo Designs
26:36 The Role of Trust and Comfort in Tattooing
29:32 The Financial Aspect of Tattooing
35:38 The Artist's Perspective on Tattooing
38:17 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans
This week, we're continuing with our client interview series. I'll be talking to a good friend and dedicated client, Dave, who will share his tattoo journey and how it plays a significant role in his life.
- Dave's Tattoo Journey: Dave opens the discussion by sharing his personal journey with tattoos. From initially believing that tattoos weren't for him to now considering them as integral parts of himself. His first tattoo was at the age of 26 and he's now three quarters through a large-scale tattoo that covers from his mid-back, over his hips, down to just below his knees.
- Tattoos as Significant Markings: Mark and Dave delve into the importance and significance of tattoos in their lives. They discuss how these markings bear immense personal significance and are often tied to pivotal events or transformations in their lives.
- The Evolution from Banker to Farmer: Dave shares his transition from working in a bank to farming medical cannabis, drawing parallels between this transition and his tattoo journey.
- The Tattoo Pathway Course: Dave talks about his experience with the Tattoo Pathway coursework in 2020. He reflects on how it provided him with a solid framework for understanding many aspects of his tattoos.
- Tattoos as a Rite of Passage: Dave discusses how getting a tattoo can be seen as a rite of passage - a significant event marking important changes in life.
- Understanding Boundaries in Tattoo Space: The conversation covers the importance of understanding one's needs and boundaries when getting tattooed. It also touches on how different approaches or levels of preparedness can impact the tattoo experience. -
- Witnessing the Transformation: Both Mark and Dave emphasize the importance of having someone witness your transformation through tattoos. They discuss how having someone understand what has transpired during the tattoo process can be an integral part of the experience.
FOLLOW
Tattoo Fundamentals In-person Workshop
Pre-sale and course outline page
themarkofnara: @themarkofnara
For more insights and discussions on intentional tattooing, join the Tattoos with Intention Podcast community Facebook group.
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Unlike previous episodes featuring artists or specialists, this episode features an interview with Taylor Deacon King, one of Mark's Clients and a recipient of intentional tattoos. This episode provides valuable insights not just for potential tattoo recipients but also for those interested in the philosophy and psychology behind tattoos.
- Intentional Tattoos: Taylor shares her experiences of receiving tattoos from Mark and others. She discusses how she uses tattoos as integral parts of her spiritual and personal development journey.
- Tattoo Philosophy Course: Taylor talks about her learnings from attending the tattoo philosophy course in 2020.
- Tattoo as a Rite of Passage: Taylor reflects on her first tattoos at age 15, discussing how they have become markers for significant events and periods of transformation in her life.
- Understanding Boundaries in Tattoo Space: Both Taylor and Mark discuss the importance of understanding one's needs and boundaries when getting tattooed. Small factors such as music or alignment with the artist's values can significantly impact the tattoo experience.
- Recommendation for First-Time Tattoo Recipients: They discuss whether someone new to tattoos would benefit from taking a tattoo philosophy course before getting their first tattoo.
- Upcoming Workshop: Mark announces an upcoming in-person group workshop on November 25th and 26th. The workshop will dive into the type of information discussed in this episode.
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Tattoo Fundamentals In-person Workshop
Afterlife Convention
themarkofnara: @themarkofnara
For more insights and discussions on intentional tattooing, join the Tattoos with Intention Podcast community Facebook group.
Introducing Hayden Wolfe, a tattoo artist who approaches tattooing with intention and a focus on holistic practices. In this episode we discussed various topics related to tattooing, including the importance of boundaries, the impact of tattoo ink on the body, the benefits of practicing martial arts alongside tattooing, and navigating the financial aspect of being a tattoo artist.
Key points from the conversation:
- Setting boundaries and clear communication with clients are essential for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling tattooing experience.
- The need for awareness and research regarding tattoo ink ingredients and their potential effects on the body.
- Exploring martial arts, such as Shinto Muso-ryu can provide physical strength, mental discipline, and personal growth that can positively impact one's tattooing practice.
- The financial aspect of tattooing requires finding a balance between valuing one's work and making it accessible to clients. It is important to know your worth and be open to adjusting prices as your skills and experience grow.
- Building ecological relationships with clients by understanding their needs and values in order to create a mutually beneficial experience.
To learn more about Hayden Wolfe's work and insights, visit his Instagram page.
FOLLOW
Hayden: @haydenwolfetatu
Themarkofnara: @themarkofnara
For more insights and discussions on intentional tattooing, join the Tattoos with Intention Podcast community Facebook group.
Today we have a fascinating conversation with Jaguar, a therapist who works in a unique way that goes beyond traditional models of therapy. He helps people evolve consciously by revealing their blind spots and creating a shift in their psyche. Jaguar emphasises the importance of being aware and analyzing our thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and experiences to understand ourselves better.
During the discussion, we touched upon several key topics:
- Therapy: Jaguar doesn't categorize himself as a traditional therapist but rather as someone who facilitates the shifting of awareness and produces healing. He believes that therapy should aim for long-term growth instead of just addressing surface-level issues.
- Tattooing and Identity: Mark and Jaguar discussed the significance of tattoos as a form of self-expression. They highlighted the importance of considering one's emotional state and motivations before getting inked. They also emphasized the role of discernment in choosing appropriate tattoos that align with one's values and personal growth.
- Parenting and Responsibility: The conversation delved into the duty of care that parents have towards their children. Jaguar expressed his concern about allowing children to make decisions about their gender identity at a young age, emphasizing the potential long-term consequences. They also discussed the value of bringing children into the world and providing them with love, support, and guidance.
- Living Life Fully: Both Mark and Jaguar agreed on the importance of living life to the fullest and enjoying the present moment. They encouraged listeners to embrace their purpose, engage with life's experiences, and create meaningful connections with others.
To learn more about Jaguar's work and insights, visit his Instagram profile at @purejaguar.
Remember to check out his content for valuable perspectives on conscious evolution, relationships, masculinity, and more.
In this episode of the "Tattoos with Intention Podcast," host Mark Nara engages in a profound conversation with Shug, also known as Bhagavan Das, who has been a dedicated yogi for 26 years. Shug resides in a hermitage in the remote mountains of the USA and has a deep connection between his yogic traditions and the art of tattooing.
They explore how tattoos can be more than just body art, serving as powerful tools for personal transformation and spiritual growth. The conversation touches upon the significance of intention in the tattooing process and how it can influence not only the design but also the client's life. They discuss the idea of using tattooing as a form of purification and how it can help remove blockages in a person's energy field.
The podcast also delves into the organic nature of this intersection between tattooing and spirituality, highlighting the transformative journeys clients embark on when they seek out these intentional tattoos
Here are the main points discussed in our conversation:
- Shug's Background: Shug has been practicing yoga for over 26 years and is part of a yogic tradition that focuses on connecting with one's true nature and purpose in life. He found inspiration in this path due to his dissatisfaction with the current state of the world and a desire for something deeper and more meaningful.
- The Intersection of Yoga and Tattooing: Shug's journey into tattooing began organically as he realized the potential for tattoos to convey powerful stories and help people reconnect with their true selves. He received his first tattoo as an initiation into his yoga tradition, which sparked his interest in using tattoos as a tool for transformation.
- The Power of Intention: Shug believes that intention is crucial in both yoga and tattooing. By working closely with clients to understand their intentions, he creates designs that align with their goals and desires. This process allows for a deeper connection between the client, the design, and the tattooing experience.
- Spiritual Cleansing through Tattoos: Shug views tattooing as a form of spiritual cleansing and purification. Through the act of tattooing, he can help remove energetic blockages and bring balance to his clients' lives. This process often leads to personal growth and positive changes beyond just the physical aspect of getting a tattoo.
- The Organic Nature of Shug's Practice: While Shug initially focused on offering ceremonial tattoos within his yoga community, his practice has expanded to include clients from various backgrounds who seek intentional tattoos. He approaches each client individually, taking into account their unique intentions and desires.
- The Evolution of Shug's Practice: Shug is continuously refining his craft and exploring new ways to integrate his spiritual practice with tattooing. He is currently working on developing a pilgrimage experience for clients, combining tattooing with transformative journeys to sacred places.
For more insights and discussions on intentional tattooing, join the Tattoos with Intention Podcast community Facebook group.
FOLLOW
Shug: @satmanavyogi_tattoo
Themarkofnara: @themarkofnara
Facebook Group: Tattoos with Intention Podcast
In this deeply introspective episode, we delve into the world of tattooing, not just as a form of body art, but as a spiritual journey, an imprint of sacred human touch, and a testament to history and traditions. Join us as we sit with Sanya Youali, a revered tattoo artist, to discuss the essence of tattooing, the balance between modernity and tradition, and the significance of community gatherings.
1. Living the Principle: Sanya emphasises the importance of 'walking the talk', ensuring one's actions align with their words, especially when it comes to honouring the art of tattooing.
2. Sacred Journey: Discover the essence of patience, timing, and choosing the right moment for tattooing, making it more than just an adornment but a significant journey of self-discovery.
3. Healing Through Ink: Tattoos are not just designs; they are a touch of human sacredness. Sanya touches upon her belief in the healing power of tattoos and the weight of responsibility it carries.
4. Roots & Traditions: An enlightening conversation on the importance of respecting and remembering the roots of tattooing, contrasting them with the influences of modern tech and trends.
5. Tattoo Conventions & Beyond: Dive into the world of tattoo conventions. From commercialised gatherings to intimate, meaningful events, understand the contrasts and the need for genuine connections.
6. Community, Connection, & Unity: Sanya stresses the power of face-to-face interactions, sharing stories like our ancestors, and the rejuvenation derived from uniting as a community.
7. Sanya's Journey: Get a glimpse into Sanya's personal experiences, her technological challenges, and how she's evolved over the years.
FOLLOW
Sanya: @sanyayoualli
Mark Nara: @themarkofnara
Facebook Group: Tattoos with Intention Podcast
Welcome to the Tattoos with Intention Podcast, where your host Mark Nara delves into the world of intentional tattooing and explores the deeper meanings behind this art form. In this episode, Mark reflects on his journey and the evolution of intentional tattooing over the years. He rekindles the conversation around intentional tattooing and unpacks the tattoo paradigm, sharing insights from his own experiences and observations.
Mark discusses the concept of intentional tattooing, exploring both the intentions of the artists and the clients. He raises thought-provoking questions about the true essence of intentionality in the tattooing process and the impact it has on individuals' lives. With candidness, he examines the intersections of tattooing and spirituality, discussing how the tattoo industry can be both sacred and profane. Mark offers a unique perspective on the connection between the sacred and the vulgar, the public and the private.
Throughout the episode, Mark emphasises the importance of challenging oneself in the practice of intentional tattooing and invites listeners to consider the deeper implications of their choices. He presents a counter-narrative to the prevailing social media trends within the tattoo community, advocating for a more mindful and private approach to sharing tattoo experiences.
Join Mark as he sets the stage for future episodes and interactions within the intentional tattooing community. He shares insights, reflections, and upcoming events, including an in-person presentation on tattoos and entities navigating spiritual realities and body art. Mark's intention is to foster a space where like-minded individuals can engage in meaningful conversations and contribute to the elevation of intentional tattooing.
Subscribe to the Tattoos with Intention Podcast on your preferred listening platform to stay updated on future episodes and explore the world of intentional tattooing.
CHAPTER HEADINGS
(00:00) Introduction and Reflection
(01:49) The Evolution of Marks Intentional Practice
(09:43) The Significance of Intentions
(13:06) Sacred and Profane: Navigating the Tattoo Industry
(16:12) Marks Hot Tip: The Power of Private Engagement
(19:58) Embracing the Sacred: A Call to Action
For more insights and discussions on intentional tattooing, join the Tattoos with Intention Podcast community Facebook group.
LINKS
Exposing Scientific Dogmas - Banned TED Talk - Rupert Sheldrake
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Instagram: @themarkofnara
Facebook Group: Tattoos with Intention Podcast
In this episode, I chat with fellow artist Shane Gallagher Coley, a spiritual artist and healer.
I was lucky enough to have another chat with Jeddy Azuma, founder of the rising man movement about the real undercurrent of initiation. There are many forms of initiation that we can move through in our lives if we choose to.
The choice is yours.
In this episode, I have a chat with @electrichermetic
Good tattoos, Good intention, Good Conversation.
He talks about his vision which changed the way he approached tattooing. We also touch on:
- consumerist tattooing
- his personal journey
- plant medicine, ceremony + magik
Just a caution the quality of these recordings is very average, haha but the content is good and hard to find. I will endeavour to refine the technical aspects for future episodes.
Sean, thank you for your time energy and insights and for doing what you're doing in the tattoo world.
A discussion of Jon Osiris’ practices of intentional and ceremonial tattooing, Tattoo Vinyasa and Dermal Darshan are evolving out of his background in eastern mysticism, yoga and tantra. Also informing his fluid and multifaceted approach are associations with North American Native people and practices from the North Pacific Coast, Apache and Lakota Nations.
His work can be seen on Instagram @jon108osiris and at www.tattoovinyasa.com.
A discussion of Jon Osiris’ practices of intentional and ceremonial tattooing, Tattoo Vinyasa and Dermal Darshan are evolving out of his background in eastern mysticism, yoga and tantra. Also informing his fluid and multifaceted approach are associations with North American Native people and practices from the North Pacific Coast, Apache and Lakota Nations.
His work can be seen on Instagram @jon108osiris and as well as on the web at www.tattoovinyasa.com.
In this episode, Mark has a chat with Sanya Youalli. She is an intentional artist working in an ancient way deep in the Mexican jungle.
Find her on Instagram @sanyayoualli
Aaron Deter-Wolf is a Prehistoric Archaeologist with the Tennessee Division of Archaeology and an adjunct professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at Middle Tennessee State University.
In 2009, Aaron organized the first American academic symposium to examine ancient and early historic Native American tattooing.
https://hyperallergic.com/438579/worlds-oldest-tattoo-kit-fernvale-native-american/
http://tdoa.academia.edu/AaronDeterWolf
In this episode, Mark chats with polish dot-work artist Piot about his journey with tattooing so far and how it is evolving into a retreat based experience.
Mark Nara reveals insight into the finer details of the tattoo world. He has been tattooing for 10 years, helping people share their stories on their skin. Discover how you can feel more empowered and connected to the act of getting tattooed, deepening your reasons for receiving them. It includes information on his process, journal entry style updates from in the studio and on the road, clients stories and of course interviews with prominent tattooers and traditional wisdom keepers from around the globe.