Spiritual Retreats, Spiritual Journeys and Women's Retreats!

Sacred Sites of Peru & Machu Picchu:Merging with the Divine
Of all the sacred sites, Machu Picchu is amongst the most talked about and mysterious. Truly there are more questions asked than answered regarding its purpose and ultimate demise. Imagine a city of incredible structures built using 50 ton blocks of stone fitting so perfectly together (without mortar) that you cannot fit a hair between the joints! Five square miles of astrological perfection sits majestically on top of a misty mountain in the Andes (8000 feet). Located two thousand feet above the rumbling Urubamba river, the city remained untouched and undiscovered until Yale archaeologist Hiram Bingham explored it in 1911.

On this spiritual journey, we will be using the energies of this amazing country to assist us in experiencing the divine within. Peru is the perfect place for this adventure of ceremony and inner exploration of the heart. We will be joined by Jorge Luis Delgado, author of Andean Awakening, Peruvian Shaman and great source of the ancient Inca teachings and traditions. Using the three levels of the Inca's mythology of transcendence, we move from the dark underworld of our own minds to the clarity of spiritual consciousness. The snake, puma and condor will be the symbols we use to represent our spiritual ascension for these 11 sacred days together.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/peru-machu-picchu/

Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, Mexico - A Celebration of Life!
Mexicans love Day of the Dead, it's a revered holiday where folk celebrate their beloved's who have passed. Families create altars filled with pictures, food and items that belonged to the deceased. The atmosphere is festive, with music, eating and the celebration of life!

During our week together we'll learn how to enjoy life as it is - to cultivate our joy and vitality and explore our manifestation as true "Artists of the Spirit." Indeed, becoming a supreme artist of the spirit involves creating from the heart, not from a mind filled with fear-based beliefs about what we can and cannot do. We'll be visiting the graveyard, and creating our own altars - whether they are to our own loved ones who have passed, or to a relationship that we want to let go of, or even an aspect of ourselves we are ready to let go of. We'll also go to the local market, visit the sacred ruins of Monte Alban & Mitla, and so much more. By the end of this journey you'll have the tools to re-create your reality and to face your greatest fear - expressing your life with integrity, honesty, fearlessness and joy.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/day-of-the-dead/

Egypt: Dreaming Transcendence
Our adventure in Egypt begins in the shadow of the Great Pyramid of Giza, where stone meets sky as a testament to one of the greatest civilizations on earth. Here, on the plateau of Giza, 2,300,000 blocks of stone, some weighing as much as 9 tons, were used to build an eternal tomb for a divine king. The shear grandness of these structures and monuments is breathtaking and the history amazing.

During our journey we will dream our own spiritual transcendence just as the ancient initiates did thousands of years ago. As we walk within the footsteps of those before us with each step we come to know who we really are. We know our birthright and the eternal divinity that exists within us. On this sacred journey we have the opportunity on this journey to be in the presence of sacred space designed for the purpose of spiritual alignment. Private time in the Great Pyramid will be one of the highlights of this journey! Join us as we share in the magic and mystery of these powerful places.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/egypt/

ISRAEL & JORDAN: Walking in the Footsteps of the Masters
Of all the sacred sites in the world, The Holy Land is certainly one of the most inspiring and emotional. It's remarkable that three of the largest mono-theistic religions were born in this tiny area: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Consider that Jerusalem is where Solomon built the Great Temple, Christ was crucified, and the Prophet Mohammad came during his famous night journey. Indeed the Holy Land has been a place of great faith and hope and terrible war and sorrow.

During our spiritual journey to Israel and Jordan we'll travel through time and immerse ourselves in the footsteps of the great spiritual masters. By connecting to these sacred and holy spaces we'll find our own internal heaven-on-earth and divinity. Your heart will open as you move through these places of prayer and devotion. I invite you to share our love of this beautiful country and experience the power and the magic of it. This is not your typical Biblical trip to the holy land - by visiting the sacred sites, hiking the land and connecting to the culture and mysticism of the people, you will merge with the energy of the holy land in the deepest and most profound way.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/israel/

Sacred Britain: A Women's Journey to Avalon
Within the heart of every woman is the desire for a grail quest for personal freedom and internal peace. On this sacred journey we'll be visiting Glastonbury, otherwise known as the Isle of Avalon. Glastonbury has long been acknowledged as the location of the mystical land of Avalon and the burial site of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere; a place beyond the veil of human sight and one only those who have reached deep inside their soul can see.

We'll visit to the enchanted Dozmary Pool where we come into the presence of the Lady of the Lake at her mystical and watery home. We'll also have a private visit to the beautiful and tranquil gardens of Chalice Well, one of the true healing places in this land where you are encouraged to drink from the holy well and a private visit to Stonehenge, plus so much more! Visit Bath, Wells, Avebury, and we 'll even have the opportunity to travel to Scotland to see the Temple Round Church in Edinburgh and Rosslyn Chapel!

The quest for Avalon, the Lady of the Lake, Excalibur and the Holy Grail, have long been sought after by seers, magicians, kings and noble knights - it represents the classic story of the eternal journey for peace, restoration and integrity. These stories represent your journey, mine, and all of humanity's to the heart of who we truly are. Quest with us and cross over the threshold of time as we open the curtain to Avalon. Joining us along the way are local experts who will share the many secrets of these ancient lands hidden behind the veil of modern society. Together they will share and guide us into the heart and soul of these sacred places while we weave our own magical experience.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/journey-to-avalon/

Havasupai - Grand Canyon: Transcending Fear
On this adventure you descend into one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, into the heart of the Grand Canyon at Havasu Canyon, where we will hike and explore this incredible landscape, swimming in travertine pools of turquoise blue, enjoying the evenings at our comfortable permanent camp (with exclusive arrangement with the Havasupai tribe) searching for stars, having great meals and sharing our experiences during our adventure. It is this spiritual energy that forms the basis for our 5 days of heart-felt transformation and personal expansion.

The focus and intent of this journey is to transcend any fears we have about what we can and cannot accomplish in our lives and within the depths of the canyon and the heart of the mother earth we will find our answers. Some say you haven't lived until you've taken a journey through Grand Canyon. This journey takes you through the heart of the canyon and will leave you with a sense of accomplishment, awe and a true appreciation and love of the grandest place on earth.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/havasupai-grand-canyon/

PALENQUE: 2012 Mayan Prophecies - Bringing in the Light
There are many beautiful and magical sacred sites in Mexico, but few hold the energy of the underworld like Palenque. From the moment you arrive into this area you will feel like you have descended into the depths of your inner being and the womb of the mother earth. It is this spiritual energy that forms the basis for our week of heart-felt transformation and personal expansion. During our week together we'll be preparing for the 2012 Mayan prophecies by using these sacred underworld sites to birth a dream of world peace into the light.

One of the special highlights of this week will be a visit to San Juan Chamula. This town is home to an amazing church which the people took back from the clergy and converted to a place of traditional shamanism and prayer. The energy here is very powerful and we will participate in a prayer circle for healing, compassion and unconditional love. for the time leading up to 2012. In addition, we'll have the opportunity to meet with a Mayan elder to talk more about what the 2012 prophecies mean for them.

During this week we'll immerse ourselves in the mythology of the underworld exploring the aspects of ourselves long abandoned or forgotten, leading to the rebirth of our integrity and oneness for ourselves and for the world. Utilizing the energy and intent of these structures we'll delve into our own underworld and then burst forth to merge with the sun and the light that we are.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/palenque/

BHUTAN: Blessings of the Heart, Meditation & Service
Not many people have actually heard about Bhutan; The Land of the Thunder Dragon, or even know where it is located. For many years this little country about the size of Switzerland has been off limits of foreigners. If you look at a map you will find Bhutan to be east of Nepal at the same latitude, with a tiny piece of India separating the two countries - and the northern edge touching the Himalayas. You must realize that Bhutan is not like any place you are likely to travel to. Perhaps we can say that it is a bit in the past but very conscious of the present. The people are Tantric Buddhists who also have a Shamanistic background called Bon - and a fantastic history filled with legends and mythology. They are a grounded people and many of them speak English and are well educated. The monasteries are magical and beautiful in ways that I cannot begin to describe and everyone who goes to this country is touched in the most astonishing ways. By the time folks leave the country, the experience has managed to open their hearts in a manner that that is totally unexpected. As part of our journey the Lamas will be preparing a special prayer ceremony for us.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/bhutan/

Guatemala: Mystery & Magic: Tikal, Antigua, Yaxha & Topoxté
Of the many places I have traveled in Central America, Guatemala is one of the most diverse landscapes, containing mountains, volcanoes, lakes, rivers, ancient Mayan ruins, colonial cities and beautiful people. In one week we do our best to experience much of what this ecologically varied country has to offer along with using the energies of the landscape to assist us in our process of self-discovery and healing.

Tikal is one of the most magnificent Mayan sites located deep within the rain forest. Surrounded by the national park and protected areas, the wildlife in this area is remarkable. You can hear the sounds of the jungle around you at all times. Two days is just enough time to touch the surface of this immense and powerful sacred site. In addition, we'll explore two lesser known sites - Topoxté and Yaxhá. If you've got energy - climbing to the top of Temple 216 will reward you with a beautiful view of Lake Yaxha and the forest surrounding it.

We'll also enjoy the colonial city of Antigua with its magnificent churches, beautiful streets and shopping. Guatemala for me is one of the most romantic places, filled with mystery and magic. There are many Shamans that make their home around this area of great power. I invite you to share my love of this beautiful country and experience the power and the magic of it.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/guatemala/

Mesa Verde, Canyon de Chelly & Chaco Canyon: A Spiritual Pilgrimage
If you are ready to put confusion and indecision behind you and learn how to create your happiness, this pilgrimage to the beautiful Southwest is where you want to be. While visiting the amazing and powerful sacred sites of Chaco Canyon, Mesa Verde, and Canyon de Chelly you will have the opportunity to look deep within yourself and reflect on your inner strength, and your self-limiting beliefs. Gently led by the insightful observations and reflections of your guides, you will embark on a journey to collect the tools and skills that you can use to harness your personal power and find your personal freedom.

On this journey we will explore three of the most interesting sacred sites of the southwest: Mesa Verde, Canyon de Chelly and Chaco Canyon. We will be hiking, meditating, vision questing, sharing and participating in ceremony and self-exploration. There will be four nights of camping and hiking on Navaho land with our precious hosts Jon and Lupita McClanahan of FootpathJourneys.com. They will share how the Diné view the spiritual world with us as we sit around the fire at night under the open star-filled sky.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/southwest-pilgrimage/

Swim with the Bimini Wild Dolphins:A Women's Retreat of the Heart
Ladies, come join us for a truly magical adventure of heart and spirit to the Caribbean Island of Bimini for an intimate and touching experience with the wild spotted dolphins. These dolphins travel in families or packs called "pods" much like we do, with playfulness being a key part of their social structure. During our time with the dolphins we'll have the opportunity to open our hearts and practice unconditional love and acceptance, for these marvelous creatures, ourselves and each other. Although they do not speak our language, dolphins are natural empaths who respond to the emotions we radiate and the judgmental thoughts or clarity of mind we possess. These are wild dolphins and when we approach their pods they make the choice to come and join, swim and connect with us. Connecting with their wondrous spirits can be a profoundly moving, deeply healing and life altering experience. Their immense peace, joy and playfulness will touch your heart and awaken your own wondrous spirit to the magic of your own magnificence.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/bimini-dolphins/

Women's Retreat to Oaxaca: Becoming the Supreme Artist of Your Life
Of all the grand colonial cities in Mexico, Oaxaca is certainly the shining jewel. We will explore a taste of this lovely place, a mix of cultural influences, foods, art and traditions. Many of the powerful Zapotec and Mixtec places were build over by the Spanish who were attempting to eliminate their old culture. But these places still remain places of power, you can just feel the energy in these beautiful old churches and sacred sites. Here we will practice the old shamanistic technique of Dreaming in the Toltec tradition, using the energies here to stir the flow of creative juices within us!

Becoming the supreme artist of our lives involves learning to create from the heart, not the mind which is filled with fear-based beliefs about what we can and cannot do. Here we learn how to connect with the feeling of joy deep in our souls and to use that feeling to guide us in our lives. Fun and ceremony are the order of the day on this journey! We will visit and shop in the local food markets and learn how to make some local dishes (and eat them too!). We will have the opportunity to experience a Temazcal or traditional sweat lodge, horseback riding, hiking, journaling, and even salsa dancing lessons.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/oaxaca-artist/

SEDONA SPIRITUAL RETREAT: Embracing At-one-ment
Join us for a magical and introspective spiritual retreat to the red rock country of Sedona, Arizona. For six days we'll have the opportunity to experience the beauty, majesty and energy of this unusual location on our Mother Earth. Each day we will visit a different vortex to illuminate our inner light and darkness, and in addition, the limiting beliefs and concepts that are keeping us from divine self-realization and oneness.

In many calendars autumn heralds the beginning of a new cycle and a new year. On the autumn equinox, day and night are of equal length reminding us that we too must honor the light and darkness within. It's easy to focus on our divine nature and light while we push away, deny and fear the darkness within. During our time together on this sacred land we'll reflect on the past year and commit to dreaming a healthier future filled with our highest intent. It's time for forgiving ourselves and bringing our regrets, sorrows, and resentments (our darkness) into the light so we can live our lives from a place of wholeness and love. Autumn is a time for letting go and releasing the things that no longer serve us and in doing so, open our hearts fully to experience at-one-ment.

We'll be gathering at the lovely Briar Patch Inn. The center is located on land that vibrates at a high frequency. Healthy breakfasts of fresh homebaked breads and muffins, crunchy granola, yogurt, fresh fruits and juices, eggs in the shell, coffee and herbal teas can be enjoyed by the fireside in the lodge, or on a tray at your cottage, or best of all, creekside. As part of this retreat we will engage in a fire ceremony, multiple ceremonies in beautiful locations, and a therapeutic healing massage which is part of the retreat package. If you are looking for a place to open your heart and to gain clarity of your mind, this is where you want to be.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/sedona/

THE MONTEREY PENINSULA: A Photography Workshop
Escape our technical world and re-focus your attention on your most authentic and creative self! Allow your senses to ignite from the breathtaking beauty of the Monterey Peninsula coastline. Invite the peace, quietude and meditative environment of Asilimar into your soul to help guide you back to your true authentic voice. We invite you to join award-winning photographer Catherine Just on this travel photography workshop and spiritual retreat.

For 4 nights and 3 full days we combine spiritual practice with photography for more mindful image-making through a deeper understanding of ourselves. Through meditation, journaling, discussion, comradery, photography exercises and connection with nature, we find our way back to the essence of who we are with clarity and lack of judgment. All levels of experience welcome!
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/monterey-peninsula-photography-workshop/

KENYA, AFRICA: Into the Heart of the Motherland
Connecting with the energy and wildlife of the motherland of all humanity is the focus of this amazing spiritual journey to Kenya, Africa. Here we will have the opportunity to witness some of the most powerful animals on our planet; lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, antelopes, zebras, wildebeest, and gazelles, befriend members of the Masai warrior tribe, and give deeply of ourselves at the Kids Alive Children's Home and the Kamatongu Primary School.

Traditionally, the Maasai rarely hunt and living alongside wildlife in harmony is an important part of their beliefs. From July to October, the promise of rain brings more than 1.3 million Wildebeest together into a single massive herd. They pour across the border into the Mara, making a spectacular entrance in a surging column of life that stretches from horizon to horizon. Truly, this will be a powerful journey for us, an opportunity to open our hearts to nature and to those in need.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/africa/

PATAGONIA ARGENTINA: Communion, Integration & Transcendence
Patagonia: truly one of the most remote, pristine and untouched territories on our planet. On this heart-opening spiritual retreat, we will immerse ourselves deeply and profoundly into our sacred connection with the natural world. We invite you to join us on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, nurtured by the intense energy of amazing glacial lakes, pure creeks, astonishing waterfalls, beautiful forests and breathtaking mountains.

Our daily road-map will guide us to different territories, not just in a geographical sense, but experientially too. The four essential elements (air, fire, water and earth), will be our temporal destinations - visiting stunning natural settings to complement each element and its manifestations, establishing a sacred communion between us and nature. Through experiential activities, a spiritual integration will take place as we merge the four human dimensions (mind, body, heart and spirit) with the four elements of nature. From our home base at Estancia Peuma Hue, a spiritually centered 500 acre eco-boutique ranch, we will discover true integration with these vital essences.

Our time together will include a variety of activities such as: forest hikes, waterfalls, lakes and amazing viewpoints, meditation, mind-body relaxation and stress management techniques (Qigong and/or TaiChi), group ritual, celebrations and games, traditional self-healing knowledge, guided horseback rides, conscious observation, enriching group reflections and much more!
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/patagonia/

TEOTIHUACÁN, MEXICO: "Where Humans Become as God"
Truly the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon are two of the most amazing sacred structures in the world - pyramids designed to focus and transform energy and light. Using the layout of the city as a model for transcendence, we spend four days changing our dream of frustration and suffering, to a dream of inner peace and heaven. The energy here is perfect to support our personal growth and development. Discover all the things that have been preventing you from expressing yourself fully and authentically in this lifetime. Just as the ancient Toltecs did here at Teotihuacán, we too will practice the three masteries for personal freedom: Awareness, Transformation and Intent.

This magical city is located approximately one hour northeast of Mexico City. We stay at the The Dreaming House, behind a gated wall in the village of San Sebastian Xolopan, adjacent to the ancient city of Teotihuacán. Within its spacious compound are a dozen rooms decorated with the art of Mexico's past, both recent and distant. The rooms have modern conveniences, but no modern annoyances.

The atmosphere is reminiscent of the home of don Juan's warrior's party, as described in the books of Carlos Castaneda. One expects time to stretch and space to bend. Miracles seem normal, and are. Meals in the spacious and gracious dining hall are miraculous in themselves, country Mexican food prepared with skill and love. It's a magical place for a magical time. Join us for this adventure to one of the most energetically powerful places.
http://www.journeysofthespirit.com/trips/teotihuacan/

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