Workshops
The Free Range Learning Cooperative and Rooted Emerging have teamed up to offer:
The Chrysalis Sisters: A coming of age program for young women ages 11-17
Times of transition are inherently vulnerable and also latent with potential power. In working to create the elements of a healthy culture, we can give young people the tools and support they crave, so they may claim that power as their own.
There is a unique challenge for modern parents who long to guide their adolescent child into adulthood, amidst busy schedules, and with little of their own experience to draw from. There is a natural developmental drive in adolescents, as well, to individuate from their parents and become the person they alone choose to be. It is an important part of claiming their power as independent adults. Adolescents seek this guidance from outside their families as they strive to take their place among a wider community.
We recognize that coming of age is a gradual process which involves immense growth on many levels. We also recognize that a parent is undergoing a transformation of their own, in their shifting roles and responsibilities, as their daughter becomes a woman. Our programs are designed to honor the whole person, on the physical, emotional, interpersonal and social level.
We aim to create a sisterhood of women who are emerging at the same time, so they may see their experience reflected in one another.
A new offering for every lunar phase, from the dark of the year into the light:
Moon of Highbush Cranberry ~ January
Initial Meeting & Exploration
30-40 minutes of discussion and connection with Vanessa Osage of Rooted Emerging
Full Moon Medicine Walk
For this month’s walk we will explore the ancestral knowledge and health benefits of the Highbush Cranberry as we step out into the night with nature adventure educator Crystal Scheer.
Nettle Moon ~ February
New Moon Body Blessing
A session of artistic play and Ayurvedic Massage with essential oils provided by Laura Ann Smith, licensed massage practitioner and certified Ayurvedic practitioner.
Full Moon Medicine Walk
During the Nettle Moon Medicine Walk we will honor and discover the many properties of the magical Nettle as we once again step out into the night with nature adventure educator Crystal Scheer.
Dandelion Moon ~ March
First Rites Workshop
A series of three workshops on empowerment & sexuality led by Vanessa Osage, certified Sexuality Educator. Held in the Moon Temple of the Ground Floor, 1105 N. State Street Bellingham. These sessions give an emerging young woman the tools she will need to move through her sexual maturity with strength and confidence.
Full Moon Medicine Walk
In March we will honor the Dandelion as a wonder-plant for women as we enjoy the soft emergence of an early spring moonlit night.
Evening Primrose Moon ~ April
Mother’s Sharing Circle
This month we offer the chance for mothers to come together for mutual support and sharing. Held in the Moon Temple of The Ground Floor.
* Support is also available for other
caregivers—please ask!
Solo Overnight Vigil
This culminating initiatory challenge offers young women the chance to spend a full night in a safe yet wild location on private property. This event takes place April 30th, 2011.
May 1, 2011
Rite of Passage Ceremony Day
Awakening from their challenge, the young women will spend a day in the beautiful South Fork Valley immersed in the ancient tribal arts with the Chrysalis Sisters Collective: a local artist, dancer and storyteller. Through their strength and presence they offer the inspiration of women living their art. Surrounded by wild nature, the young women will prepare for a coming of age ceremony to be witnessed by friends and family at the end of the day.
Cost for the entire program is a sliding scale of $215-$260. A payment plan is available at $35/month for 5 months with a deposit of $45 at registration.
Preregister by January 4th, 2011
Contact:
Vanessa at rootedemerging@gmail.com
The Magic of Nature Journaling: Writing, Sketching and Water-coloring
Who: Students Ages 9-adults (multi-generational!)
What: Join Crystal Scheer, experiential educator and founder of the Free Range Learning Cooperative for this inspiring workshop series. Nature journaling is a hobby and a craft that delicately and beautifully leads a soul into the rich experience of communing with nature on a profound and personal level. Students will develop a love for self-reflection and quiet focus while discovering a hobby that is easily integrated into daily life. Senses will naturally begin to expand to include the awareness of subtle fragrances, camouflaged creatures and other wonders. Students will also learn to tap into that still small voice of intuition. A nature journal is a priceless keepsake that may be passed on for generations to come, telling the unique story of your child’s life during this exceptional moment in history. In addition, we will enjoy a picnic lunch together and delight in one-another’s company.
When and Where:
By appointment at a variety of locations. This makes a great birthday party event as well!
Cost and Registration Information: Students may sign up for one or more workshops. The cost is $30 per student plus $15 for each additional family member. There is a one time $10 supply fee which covers the cost of the use of paint, brushes, high-quality pens, color-pencils and paper. Students who sign up for 3 or more workshops will receive an artist quality sketchbook and a professional grade pen. To register, please email crystalscheer@gmail.com to make arrangements.