The Gracelady | Mystic Mama Lori |
Lori Leyden
Dr. Lori Leyden is an evolutionary leader, trauma healing expert, and visionary mentor known for holding sacred space in some of the most traumatized regions of the world—from Rwandan genocide survivors to Newtown school shooting families.
She is the creator of the Embodying Grace HeartMap™ and the Mastering Therapeutic Presence certification program. Lori is a member of the Evolutionary Leaders Circle and recipient of the ACEP Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Field of Energy Psychology.
My 10 Best
(In no particular order)
The Gene Keys
The Gene Keys offered me a sacred mirror for understanding my own soul blueprint, especially the Venus Sequence, which continues to illuminate the deeper wounds and gifts in my intimate relationships. Richard’s poetic synthesis of human potential, shadow work, and divine essence resonates deeply with my Embodying Grace HeartMap, as both are grounded in presence, surrender, and embodiment. This isn’t a book I read—it’s a book I live, breathe, and revisit as an oracle.
Man’s Search for Meaning
Frankl’s message—that meaning can be found even in the most horrific suffering—has been a guiding light in my global trauma healing work. From working with genocide survivors in Rwanda to parents of school shooting victims in Newtown and Parkland, this book reminds me of the invincible power of the human spirit. It validated my belief that presence, dignity, and love transcend circumstance.
The HeartMath Solution
HeartMath’s research gave scientific language and validation to what I had experienced in my own spiritual journey: the transformational power of heart coherence. Their work underpins my Mastering Therapeutic Presence program and the Heart-Brain-Body Connection model in my HeartMap. I love that it bridges the mystical with the measurable, offering tools for real-time resilience, regulation, and sacred service.
The Story of Gaia
This evolutionary masterpiece weaves science, mysticism, and cosmology into a breathtaking vision of a conscious universe. Jude’s narrative helped me see my work not only as trauma healing, but as part of the planetary awakening. It gave me language to describe the sacred geometry of healing and the feminine intelligence of Grace unfolding on a galactic scale.
Seat of the Soul
This was one of the first books that helped me trust my intuitive knowing, long before it was fashionable or accepted in professional circles. Zukav’s work affirmed the primacy of the soul’s journey over the ego’s striving. It was a lifeline in moments when I doubted my path, and it continues to inspire how I hold presence for others as they reconnect with their soul’s calling.
The Biology of Transcendence
Pearce’s work gave me permission to explore the intimate connection between neurobiology and mystical experience. His writing seeded the foundation for my Heart-Brain-Body theory and my approach to integrating science and spirit. He helped me understand that transcendence is not outside us—it’s wired into our biology when heart, mind, and body align.
The Disappearance of the Universe
This irreverent and provocative text shook loose old spiritual paradigms and deepened my understanding of non-duality. It forced me to confront my own illusions and gave me fresh insight into forgiveness—not as a moral act, but as a quantum shift in perception. It’s one of those books that stays with you like a trickster Zen master whispering, “None of this is real.”
The Divine Matrix
Braden’s weaving of quantum science and spirituality offered me a powerful affirmation that our inner state directly influences the outer field. His articulation of the Matrix supported my evolving understanding of collective resonance and helped inspire the Millions Meditating Alliance. His work gave language to what I’ve long felt: that presence is not passive—it’s co-creative.
Transcending the Levels of Consciousness
Hawkins’ map of consciousness gave me a profound framework for understanding human evolution—from the densest states of fear and shame to the luminous realms of love, joy, and peace. It helped me see not only where I had been in my own healing journey, but also how to meet others exactly where they are without judgment. This book validated my belief that transformation is both a shift in perception and a vibrational leap. It deepened my commitment to living—and teaching—from higher states of awareness, and it gave me language to explain the “invisible” resonance of presence that I experience in my work. For me, this isn’t just theory—it’s a living compass that guides my service, my relationships, and my spiritual evolution.
Interbeing
This sacred text distilled the essence of presence for me. Thầy’s teachings on mindfulness, compassion, and interconnectedness ripple through everything I do. His gentle voice reminds me that healing isn’t just for the self—it’s an act of service for the collective field. In Interbeing, I found a spiritual simplicity that felt like coming home.