Spirit Passages WORKSHOPS & TRAINING:
THE SHAMANIC JOURNEY PROCESS
This two-day weekend workshop will introduce participants to the shamanic journey experience. We will explore this ancient method to safely contact the spirit realms in both the Upperworld and Lowerworld for guidance, insight and healing. Drumming is used during the journey as an aid to shifting consciousness in the way humans all over the Earth, have done for centuries.

This workshop is an excellent way to begin or renew a conscious relationship with Spirit and your own soul's gifts as well as strengthen the power of your own intuition.

Prerequisite: None. Shamanic Journey Process is an introductory workshop. The ability to journey is necessary for most of the Spirit Passages workshops.

 

 


 

 
NEW!! GIANTS: CREATING FROM THE VOID (A Northern European Shamanism Workshop)
Giants are featured in many of the world’s creation myths. The stories say that the Earth herself was created from The Void by these awesome, primordial beings. From the Greeks, to the Celts to the Norse/Germanic peoples--our ancestors told stories of these fierce spirits that are able to create matter and manifest the physical world out of Chaos. These ancient beings are even mentioned in the Old Testament: "There were giants in the earth in those days...” 
For many cultures, the giants are considered to be the progenitors of human beings--in other words, our most ancient spiritual ancestors.
In this workshop, we’ll explore connections with the Giants for the purpose of entering into a powerful and creative relationship.

 
Joining forces with them, we can manifest a happier, healthier and more abundant life!

 
Prerequisite: Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.

 

 

 
ORACLES, RUNES AND RITUALS (A Northern European Shamanism Workshop)

 Do you have Northern European roots? Are you searching for an authentic connection to your spiritual lineage? Do you wish that there were rites and ceremonies that "spoke" to your heart and blood? Then this workshop is for you!

 
The shamanic traditions of Northern Europe preserve an Earth-based spirituality that honors the magical powers of the feminine as well as masculine and offers many wonderful gifts to support us in these times.  In this experiential workshop, we will encounter the Old Goddesses and Gods, learn about the nine realms of spirit, create a set of runes, perform rune casting, experience song-supported journeys varðlokur (VARTH-lokr) and share in powerful group rituals.  Enacting the ancient oracular ceremony known as seiðr, (SAYTH-r) we will follow the roots of the World Tree, Yggdrasil in search of prophetic wisdom. 

 
Join us to get connected and reclaim your ancestral spiritual powers!

 
Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process. In addition, early registration is suggested so that participants may make preparations of materials which will be used in the workshop.

Click here to register.



 
THINGS THAT GO BUMP IN THE NIGHT!
(Formerly titled: Death: Celebrating & Facilitating Transitions) Spirits seem to be working overtime to get our attention these days!
In this two-day experiential workshop we will examine how to determine a spirit's intentions, how to work with resident land spirits, how to negotiate with "troublesome" spirits and how to assist those spirits of the dead that linger here in our world.
Participants will also be introduced to classic psychopomp techniques for assisting dying persons and guiding lost souls. This workshop is highly recommended to everyone.

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.
Click here to register.

 


 
SIBERIAN SHAMANISM: SPIRITS OF THE TAIGA AND TUNDRA

 This magical, two-day experiential workshop will introduce participants to the visionary, shamanic traditions of the Ulchi people of Southern Siberia. Calling on our studies with the late, Grandfather Misha Duvan, last male shaman of the Ulchi,we will go outside of time to explore ancient methods of guidance, insight and healing. We will also examine the Earth-centered spiritual rituals of the Yakut, Evenk, Yakut and Sami, to see glimpses of the widespread, shamanic practices of our Paleolithic ancestors. A traditional Ulchi Bear Trance Dance ritual will be included as well as working with Spirit Houses.

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process. In addition, early registration is suggested so that participants may make preparations of materials which will be used in the workshop.

  
NEW!! NEW SHOOTS FROM THE WORLD TREE (A Northern European Shamanism Workshop)

 
Are you wanting to feel more connected?  Are you reaching for new ways to stay positive and out of fear?  Do you envision yourself as one of the people that can participate in changing the world for the better?

 
For many years and across many traditions, spiritual texts have suggested that our current time period will bring humankind the possibility of Great Change--a Time of Opportunity.   In the spiritual traditions of Europe’s Norse/Germanic tribes, these times were defined as Ragnarök--a time to totally transform what has been known before to make way for a rebirth cycle.  In going through the crisis, new human beings and new “gods”--that is, new ideas about what/who is considered sacred--will emerge. 

 
In the Northern European myths, the new human beings are the man, "Life" (Lif )and woman, "Eagerness for Life" (Lífthrasir).  They who survive Ragnarök by following in shamans' footsteps and entering the World Tree, Yggdrasil.  There, they are made ready to emerge and begin the new world.   These Northern myths have preserved the understanding that it is we shamans who can dream a new dream for humankind.  We can bring forth New Life and Eagerness for Life--the New Shoots of the World Tree!

 

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.

 
NEW!! MORE NEPALESE SHAMANISM WITH BHOLA BANSTOLA 

 
This is a rare opportunity to connect with an indigenous Nepalese Shaman, who is a renowned international teacher.  Bhola brings the art and wisdom of his ancestral Himalayan Shamanic Tradition, to share with us on his second visit to Maine!  This experiential two-day workshop will be devoted to traditional Nepali shamanic healing systems and practices and will be entirely new material not covered in his previous workshop. Everyone is welcome to join in what promises to be a rich and wonderful workshop!

 

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.

 

 

 

 

PAST LIVES: A SHAMANIC APPROACH

In this very popular, two-day workshop, we will gain profound insights about our past lives that have a direct bearing on our current life's experience.
With the compassionate assistance of our Spirit Teachers and our power animals, we will access the gifts that we bring into this lifetime and heal those past life experiences that may interfere with our being able to fully embrace the present. (People who took this workshop three years ago, ? continue to experience the extraordinary power of their soul's progress.)

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.

Click here to register.

 


 
CELEBRATING BEAR
In this two-day workshop, we will celebrate the Spirit of Bear. The earliest painted cave in Europe--Chauvet--contained a powerful altar dedicated to the cave bear. Bears have been honored in cultures across circumpolar north as profound healers, dreamers and protective spirits.

In fact, bears have been our fellow travelers on this Earth for millennia. Using stories, journeying, dance and other rituals, we will bring the power of Bear into our own lives. This weekend is open to anyone who wants to enter into relationship with the Spirit of Bear. (...and if you already work with Bear, this is a workshop not to be missed!) Special storytelling by Trudy Sloan.

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.

 


 
MEDICINE FOR THE EARTH: TRANSMUTING PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL TOXINS

In this two-day long experiential workshop will explore the ways we can transform our way of being in the world and in so doing transmute toxins inside of ourselves and in our world. Drawing on the work of Sandra Ingerman, Gregg Braden, Masaru Emoto and others, we will learn the art of being conscious and humble Co-creators--in essence remember our divine potential. Participants will have opportunities to work both individually and together to create real measurable change in our environment.

Prerequisite: A strong, working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process is required.

Click here to register.

 
CEREMONIES OF GRATITUDE

 A despacho is an experiential, ceremony of gratitude used by the people of the high Andes of Peru. It is a beautiful and sometimes elaborate offering that may either be buried or burned. These offerings are done to celebrate achievements, petition the spirits for help, to manifest something in one’s life and to stay in the state of ayni--the state ofsacred reciprocity--with our beautiful Earth--Pachamama During thisday-long workshop, you will make your own despacho and learn how to tailor one for any special occasion! We’ll also use flowers, candy, perfume, beans and other simple objects, to create a despacho filled with our collective prayers of gratitude. Participants will have an opportunity to make personal prayers as well as receive a healing from a finished despacho.

No previous experience necessary.

 
MASTERING THE LIVING ENERGY

In this experiential, one-day workshop, we will explore our personal energy systems and our energetic connections to the rest of creation. We’ll look at clearing our energy system, removing blocks, filling our “Energy Well,” and dealing with energy draining people and situations. We will also look at how we can more fully embody our Divine energy.

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.

 
EARTH, AIR, FIRE, WATER: ELEMENTAL WHEEL OF NATURE

The elements, Fire, Earth, Air and Water-- are powerfully profound Teachers of Manifestation. Though them, all on the Earth is made possible. Working with them can support us on our path of dreaming a new way of being into reality. Each weekend is dedicated to a different element and the four workshops will guide us on a great journey of discovery into the deepest workings of creation. As we enter into relationship with the very fabric of Life, we find ways to weave a new future for ourselves and the planet.

While the four workshop create a complete program, participants may enter the wheel at any point.

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.

 

 


MODERN SHAMANIC LIVING

 Expanding on Evelyn's book titled, Modern Shamanic Living: New Explorations of an Ancient Path, this workshop uncovers our inner Hunter/Gatherer and his or her abilities to transform our lives and how we interact with our bodies, other people, our community, other species and our planet. This inner being, accessed in the library of our DNA, offers a fresh and joyful perspective on the challenges of the next millennium! Using shamanic journeys, stories, movement, drumming and ritual participants will enjoy a remembering of their ancient and deep wisdom.

The wealth of knowledge that the inner hunter/gatherer can bring to our lives is astounding. The positive changes that can occur with this wisdom is endless.

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.

 

 


 
SHAMANIC DIVINATION: READING SIGNS FROM SPIRIT
Long before the creation of tarot cards, shaman have needed to find ways of? communicating with the spirits. Participants in this fun, weekend will enjoy questioning the spirits through experiences of crystal viewing, fire divination, water visioning, throwing the bones, and other techniques for looking into the world of spirit for guidance and insight. Find the answers you seek for yourself and others!

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.

  
WORKING WITH MIDDLE WORLD NATURE SPIRITS

 This two-day experiential workshop will explore and work with the incredible powers of earth, fire, air & water. In addition, we will meet the Old Ones--ancient, Earth spirits who enliven and protect the land. People have called them by many different names--fairies, devas, giants, elves, green men--but these spirits have existed far longer than humans and our definitions. Since these spirits and forces are so integral to manifestation on this plane, we will examine how we can enter into and develop relationship with them. A fire ceremony will be a part of this workshop.

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.

 
ANCESTRAL WISDOM
Every person has three lines of ancestors: Blood Ancestors which are our literal familial lineage--stretching back centuries behind us; Milk Ancestors, which are those people in our early lives that have nurtured and gentled our path; and Spirit Ancestors, those loving beings, both seen and unseen that have helped us along the way. In this weekend, we will nurture connections with helpful, healing ancestors from each of these three lines and learn how to access their wisdom and power for our lives and future.

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.

 
FAERIE FACES! MAKING NATURE SPIRIT MASKS

 In this playful one-day workshop, we will create fabulous masks of faerie beings such as the Greenman! These masks are easy to make, very comfortable to wear and are just the thing to wear at outdoor festivals, dances, ecological events, for Summer Solstice or just to lovingly celebrate our interconnections with the faerie realms!

No previous craft experience is necessary!
 
POWER OF THE FUTURE: WORKING WITH THE DESCENDANTS

 While we are used to accessing the wisdom of the Ancestors, our Descendants can offer us remarkable possibilities for a future we can not even begin to imagine! In this one-day workshop, we will explore how we can work in harmony with those that see us as ancestral spirits and together ensure a bright tomorrow for ourselves and the Earth.

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.


  
SHAMANIC DRUM MAKING WORKSHOP

 In this one-day workshop participants will have the opportunity to create their own rawhide frame drum. Please note: Early registration is required so that all the necessary materials will be available for your drum.

No previous craft experience is necessary!

 

 

 

 

Spirit Passages SHORT PROGRAMS:

 

 THE PERUVIAN WHISTLING VESSELS

The Whistling Vessels are powerful shamanic instruments that are used to move beyond this reality. The extraordinary vibrations produced by the pottery vessels have psychoacoustic properties which induce an expanded state of consciousness which offers a slightly different access to the shamanic journey. While similar to a drum-supported journey state, the Peruvian vessel-produced shamanic state can create different experiences for the journeyer.

Participants in past gatherings have seen rain forest imagery and are introduced to new Teachers. For some others, the actual vibrations have generated deep feelings of healing. Still other people have had powerful visions of what they have interpreted to be past lives.

The evening ceremonies begin by creating sacred space. This ritual includes rattling, whistling and honoring the spirits with rum and perfume. What follows this ritual is a a ceremony of awakening the seven vessels' spirits. After the spirits have been awakened the vessels are then played.

The sounds of the vessels are quite unique. Individually they seem quite shrill, however when played together they produce complex harmonics and vibrations that seem to occur both inside as well as outside of the body. (These internally experienced vibrations and sounds are what is most remarked upon by participants. Some say that they continue to hear the sounds in their minds and bodies for several days after the initial experience.)

Shamanic journeys may be taken while the vessels are producing sounds and also may be embarked upon in the vibrating silence that follows the vessels' work. For that reason, it is recommended that participants know how to journey and have a strong connection to both a power animal and a Teacher.

Prerequisite: Working knowledge of the Shamanic Journey Process.

Click here to register.


 
AYNI DESPACHO

 This experiential, Andean ceremony is a way to thank the Earth

(Pachamama) for her many blessings and make prayers to her for the coming season of the year! Ayni is the state of reciprocity--in other words--giving to Pachamama in order to create balance for all that we are given. The despacho ceremony is a beautiful, elaborate and communal way of creating this offering. Please bring: three red carnations and two white carnations, paper confetti and some candy. Please also bring a rattle and/or drum if you have one. Scent sensitive individuals please take note: Perfume is used as a part of this ceremony.

Prerequisite: None.


 
CREATIVE POWER OF OUR EMOTIONS

 This presentation is designed to introduce us to ways we can change our reality for the better!  Using a combination of presented material and guided imagery, we'll learn how the latest science supports our role as co-creators, how our feelings alter our world, and and easy, daily exercise to support the transformation of our lives and our planet.

Prerequisite: None.


 
A VISIT WITH GRANDMA

Spend an evening in the presence of a warm and loving spirit! As anyone who has experienced this wonderful spirit's wisdom can attest, these channeled exchanges are extraordinary! There is something about how Grandma speaks,...how she chooses her words...that makes us feel at ease. She teaches with a gentle humor and reaches those places in our hearts that can give us deep peace. Bring an open mind, your questions, a notebook and join us for a delightful experience!

Prerequisite: None.
 
Please go to the TRAINING page for our two-year apprenticeship program and graduate training information.