Disrupting "normal" one poem at a time!
Poetry for women who feel like they don't fit in (and don't really want to). We are disrupting normal - finding our voices and contributing to a better world, simply by being ourselves.

"I cannot thank you enough for walking this journey with me. Your support and strength is powerful and allows me to realize that I am not alone in my quest for a better more balanced connection with myself and others."
~ Christy R.
MY BOOKS




“Liminal” is not just a compilation of beautifully crafted poems: it’s a call to come alive to yourself. Ashley’s genius is not only in writing thoughtful words, but writing words that make you feel seen… especially if you don’t feel you fully fit into the boxes others assume you do. It brims with possibility, truth, compassion, and a reminder there is something more that’s possible for you. Both a balm to the soul and a gentle fire to light you up, this is one I will dip into over and over again. Thank you for this beautiful work, and for bringing the magic of liminal spaces to life so perfectly.”
~Marianne Cantwell, TEDx speaker, "Hidden Power Of Not Always Fitting In", and author of Be A Free Range Human
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"I absolutely loved this book! I loved all the different personal stories included and how each person was able to describe in their own way how being an empath has changed them or made a difference in their lives. Many people don’t understand or know about empaths and this book helps give a clear explanation from many angles!"
"Refreshing, reassuring and hauntingly familiar,
this simple, intimate book seemed to be reading my mind!
Simultaneously, I found myself wanting to anchor
quietly deep, deep within AND dance wildly among the stars!
I recommend it to every woman who is
longing for a more authentic life and ready to fully be herself!"
WHAT DO YOU GET WHEN YOU COMBINE POETRY, REIKI, ADHD, AND LEADERSHIP?

Ashley Barnes, Cat Lady Poet
An unapologetic mishmash of weirdness and passion that is ME!
I'm a recovering people-pleaser and rule-follower, multi-passionate creative, neurodivergent leader, holistic coach, poetry author, and Reiki Master/Teacher.
And I love cats.
As a writer, I believe in the transformational power of words to create powerful shifts and give voice to those who feel voiceless. I create poems for women who are disrupting what it means to be "normal", simply by being themselves.
Working with individuals, we focus on inner work. I help women access more joy, ease, and inspiration so they can lead their lives more fully. I especially love doing this work with leaders so I can support the ripple effect their presence and impact creates in their world.
Let's read and write poetry! Let's learn Reiki and use it to tap into our truest selves! Let's unabashedly embrace how we're naturally, beautifully wired! Let's strive to experience more joy, ease, inspiration - and a healthy dose of weirdness - in ALL we do!
RECENT DAILY BLISS POSTS
Daily Bliss – June 2
What if her imagination Runs wild and free Running roughshod over the objections Which cause her to worry on How silly she might look Or how foolish she might sound And instead loosen her hair And her inhibitions For the moments that make her smile ©Ashley Castle Barnes
Read MoreDaily Bliss – May 31
She dances To the music alive in her bones She sings From the verses coursing through her veins She steps forward Carried in the arms of all who came before her ©Ashley Castle Barnes
Read MoreDaily Bliss – May 30
Sliding down the rabbit hole Of wonderland dreams Inexplicable yet daring to come alive Sucking in the air of every moment Breathing out the joy and peace she craves And she dances to the music only she can hear ©Ashley Castle Barnes
Read More"Peace, joy and play didn't seem to be an option in my life. My truth is that my life requires these elements and now I learning to incorporate them in my day-to-day lifestyle."
~ Lori T.
I WOULD LOVE TO GET TO KNOW YOU!
I love to connect with new people and learn how we can support each other! Join me for a no-sales Virtual Coffee chat!