Soul Tattoos – the unlikely combination of ink and spirituality – has emerged out of the popular trend of hand-poked ink. The pioneer of this movement is licensed tattoo artist Ashley Glynn, who is a certified Reiki healer and self-proclaimed clairvoyant.
Glynn was opened up to the world of the divine from a very young age, by none other than her grandmother. After this positive force in her life passed away in 2009, she inherited her grandmother’s tarot card deck and delved into her spiritual roots. In order to create Soul Tattoos, Glynn combined tarot, astrology, sacred symbols, and animal medicine.
The sessions themselves are geared towards identifying deep-set patterns and habits that are not allowing ourselves to develop our full potential. Glynn has dedicated herself to offering a personal, intimate experience for each client. The sessions begin with sage and a gentle reminder for the client to clear their mind and think about what they wish to gain from the session. Glynn then reads their tarot cards to get a perspective of the clients struggles and which roadblocks they are facing in their lives. In the past, clients have said they received their Soul Tattoos to gain clarity, to showcase a spiritual connection, and to end their worries about the future. The entire experience is aimed towards growth and balance.
Ashley Glynn photo by Natalie Cleveland
The clients can then look through a portfolio of Glynn’s past work, which is customized to fit the needs of the client and the insights gained through the tarot card reading. She also takes into account the meaning behind different symbols and images that will help their client get through their struggles. For example, the sun and moon represent balance, a blooming rose can represent self-love, and vines represent medicine and healing.
Those who are lucky enough to receive a Soul Tattoo go through a calm experience with a tattoo artist who radiates a reassuring energy. The easy-going, quiet atmosphere is a stark contrast to the normal shops that are associated with getting a tattoo. These delicate tattoos are meant to give a deeper meaning to the ink by diving into symbolism that connects with an individuals spirituality. The experience itself is meant to push boundaries while comforting the canvas and assisting them through their personal struggles.
If a spiritual journey like this is something you’d be interested in, you can put your name on Glynn’s waiting list here. Or, if you aren’t quite sold yet, you can check out some finished Soul Tattoos below.
Glynn ensures that each tattoo is full of different symbols each represent characteristics that will help the wearer with problems in their life. The tattoo below features a moon for feminine energy and floral elements to represent a connection to the Earth.
Moon Soul Tattoo by @wadulisiwoman
Each Soul Tattoo is meant to uphold symbolism that is incredibly personal to the canvas. The tattoo below is meant to foster balance, self-expression, grace, and ease.
Plant & Alchemy Soul Tattoo by @wadulisiwoman
All of these tattoos are aimed towards helping the wearer heal through past events and develop into their full potential. The ink below touches on this by depicting sacred symbols that embody plants, medicine, natural healing, and flowing waters.
Healing Soul Tattoo by @wadulisiwoman
Glynn also thrives within sweet and simple designs like these dainty and adorable sprigs of lavender.
Lavender Tattoo by @wadulisiwoman
Every Soul Tattoo is handpoked by Glynn herself, which gives every creation a unique look and feel that can’t be replicated.
Lotus Flower Soul Tattoo by @wadulisiwoman
However, not all tattoos within this niche are feminine and cute. Glynn also frequently provides ink that represents power, strength, and uncovering the truth.
Strength Soul Tattoo by @wadulisiwoman
Glynn refuses to shy away from larger-scale work. Below you’ll find one of her largest pieces which is meant to depict multiple chakras and promote healing.
Chakra tattoo by @wadulisiwoman
A common theme of her tattooing is helping her canvas grow and become a happier, healthier individual. In order to accomplish this, Glynn gains a perspective through a tarot card reading.
Growth tattoo by @wadulisiwoman
While her style tends to be more feminine in nature, Glynn is happy to take on male clients. She has claimed, “like any healing work, Soul Tattooing is really for anyone and everyone who feels called to it.”
Spirit tattoo by @wadulisiwoman
Hummingbirds are symbolic of moving forward, enjoying life, and the lightness of being. This adorable ink is meant to remind the wearer not to dwell on negativity and to express love more fully. The violet in the bird’s mouth is meant to give comfort and peace in a time of transition.
Hummingbird & Violet tattoo by @wadulisiwoman
