Beltane 2007 List of Classes

Current as of 20 Apr 2007

Send Schedule Questions/Comments to the P-Team, please

The Beltane class descriptions are only for folks 18 & older.

101 Things To Do With a Limp Dick - Beth & Preston
There can be almost as many reasons for a limp dick as there are things to do with it. Following a short discussion of the whys, this hands on class will explore how to have fun and get it on even when he can't get it hard—and who knows what might happen after that. For best results, bring a real live dick to play with, but singles will not be turned away.

6th Annual Best Butt (and more) Contest - Dianna
Everyone is invited to Beltane's 6^th Annual 'Celebrate the Body' Contest. It all started when a man said, 'I couldn't believe any woman would ever find my body beautiful.' In response, we held an impromptu Best Butt and Best Package contest... and now we just can't stop. This year, join us to yell, scream, applaud and generally LOVE the bodies around us. Contestants, you can strut your stuff in one or more of the following categories: 1. Best Buddha Belly; 2. Best Venus of Willendorf Form; 3. Best Butt; 4. Best Package. Each category is open to anyone who wants to compete—no gender restrictions apply. Judging is based half on content and half on presentation, so be prepared to show your stuff with a little pizzaz! Music, prizes and Dianna dressed in some little naughty outfit make the event complete. (50/50 tickets benefitting the George D. Marvil Scholarship Fund will be on sale at this event. For $10, you can measure out your own strip around Dianna's thigh. Charitable and crowd-pleasing... Who could ask for more?) See you there!

Advanced Sexual Trancework - Wilddragon
Sharing sexual energies in trace is a basic tool of Sacred Sexuality. After that, however, comes verbal and physical interaction in trance, and shared experience of the loving sexual presence of God/dess/es. This workshop assumes that you already know how to take yourself into a state of trance or meditation from which you can interact with the unseen worlds, and will challenge you to talk and move without losing that trance state. On that foundation, we will conduct a shared experience between the worlds, partly in the space and time of our physical bodies, partly in the realm of the Gods. Touch, comforting and friendly as well as erotic, will be extensive, but you may set your own limits regarding genital contact.

Alfred C Kinsey and the Roots of Polyamory - Ken Haslam
Kinsey produced a firestorm of protest and opened the way for the sexual revolution in the 1950s with his books on sexual behavior of the human male and female. He was a workaholic brilliant scientist, swinger, bisexual, practiced a bit of BDSM, and was probably a Polyamorist—although none of those terms were in existence at the time. His work describes Polyamory in the context of extramarital sex and especially the female sexuality.

I'll also describe the founding and goals of the Kinsey Library Polyamory collection. Please visit the Kinsey Institute for more information.

Around the Edges - Nyx
Let's talk about 'Edge Play,' that stuff we just don't talk about in public! There are several behaviors even the most 'Out and Proud' of us keep in the closet. We feel that they're too personal, or too dangerous, or we're ashamed. Maybe our communities are 'squicked' by them. Maybe our communities, as a whole, consider them unsafe or insane. Definitely not SSC! Maybe, even our families of choice just don't want to know. So: meta-consent, fear, 24/7, blood, breath control, RACK, weapons, forbidden fantasies, etc.

The Art of Stillness - Robin Renée
Many great practices teach us to explore ways to move energy and to create positive change inside and outside ourselves. Meditation allows us to look within, develop a stable, centered balance, and to discover the perfection of simply being present. The Art of Stillness will create space for deep quietude through several meditation techniques and will address questions and obstacles to the practice. In honor of Beltane, one point of focus will be the 2nd chakra, where the pro/creative energies can be experienced in relation to the Divine. Bring a meditation cushion or floor pillow.

Auto-Erotic Sex Magick in a Western Tradition Spiritual Path - Christina Parker
Although normally associated with Tantra and Eastern spiritual traditions, sex magick can easily be incorporated into Western spiritual tradition rituals. One of the most important ingredients in successful magick is energy and auto-eroticism (masturbation) provides a very powerful way to generate energy. In this workshop, Christina discusses ways to incorporate auto-eroticism in ritual work. She also shares some of experiences she has since she began incorporating auto-eroticism in her spiritual journeys. This class assumes that participants have a working knowledge of basic ritual techniques. Intermediate/Advanced.

Avoid the Pitfalls/Reap the Rewards of Polyamorous Relationships - Anita Wagner
Most people raised in Western culture under lifelong exposure to monogamous societal norms come to understand with little effort what emotions and reactions are commonly considered reasonable and likely to arise when the subject is relationship exclusivity. Those seeking to establish and maintain healthy, happy polyamorous relationships without the benefit of similar conditioning sometimes fail to recognize how ill prepared they are to achieve their goal, sometimes sending themselves on an emotional rollercoaster of drama, pain and confusion as a result. By attending this fast-paced workshop, you will learn ways to avoid the common pitfalls that attempting to create successful polyamorous relationships 'on the fly' can present. Common issues to be considered include The Kid In The Candy Store Syndrome; Jumping The Gun; Dealing Successfully With Fear, Guilt, And Jealousy; and Hunting Ducks Where The Ducks Are—and Where They Aren't.

Beginning Sexual Trancework - Wilddragon
After creating sacred space, we will undertake to balance the energy of trance with the energy of sexuality by alternating between deepening our trance and intensifying our flow of sexual energy. Our goal is to use the tension between these two energies to push us deeper into an experience of the Sacred, expanding into the use of movement and physical contact to invoke and worship God/dess/es. Participants will be encouraged first to invoke Divinity with erotic praise, and then to "dance, sing, make music and love, all in my praise, for mine is the ecstasy of the spirit; and mine also is joy on earth. For my law is love unto all beings." Non-genital touch will be required, genital touch with mutual consent will be permitted but not required.

Behold the Foot: Massage the Metatarsals and Fondle the Footsie - Beth & Preston
What happens when a massage therapist marries a foot fetishist? How about a class that marries his passion for the foot to her knowledge of anatomy and techniques for a wonderful and safe foot experience? In this hands-on class, learn and experience how, why and where to touch to maximize the pleasure for both parties.

Better Sounds of Sex - Michelle Zee
Do you have difficulty making sounds during lovemaking? Would you like to experiment with making louder and more passionate noises and moans? Would you like to enhance your and your partner'(s) orgasms with sound? Then come and have fun at this workshop! We will play with sounds in a safe environment and practice different love noises. Either come with a partner(s) or be prepare to match up with new people or do solo sound sex work! Audience: Anyone who would enjoy making sexy sounds!

Bondage Without Restraint - Selene & Bellavia & Arakeane
Let your imagination run wild and you may just begin to fathom an inkling of the complexities implied by the simple, yet powerful title for this workshop. Based upon experimentation at a NYC nightclub earlier this year, an early part of this workshop will consist of a performance art piece designed to stimulate your erotic appreciation in a manner that very few have ever experienced. This will then transition into a voluntary group participation exercise, where everyone can join in to the extent that they feel comfortable. We will then hold an open forum to discuss experiences with bondage and what it means to us. Bring rope and/or other restraints.

Canes and Caning (Interactive Playshop) - Nyx
Canes are often described as the Victorian terror weapon, but they can be sensuous and seductive as well. Come explore various types of canes and caning. Intermediate level interactive playshop. Max class size: 20.

The Chakras and Sexuality - Patricia & Mark
The basic aspects of the classical Tantric Chakra system are familiar to many, but some of the lesser-known components can be the most powerful, if you know how to utilize them. Each Chakra contains hidden keys to sensual exploration. In this workshop, you will learn techniques for unleashing the power of the Chakras.

Concert - Cassandra Syndrome
Come and enjoy the music.

Cuddle Party - Suzann
A structured, safe workshop on boundaries, communication, intimacy and affection. A drug and alcohol-free way to meet fascinating people in a relaxing environment. A laboratory where you can experiment with what makes you feel safe and feel good. This playful, fun workshop has been a place for people to rediscover non-sexual touch and affection, a space to reframe assumptions about men and women, and a great networking event to meet new friends, roommates, business partners and significant others. Can a Cuddle Party restore your faith in humanity? It just might. But at the very least, you'll have a great time, and leave feeling relaxed and inspired. For more info, visit Cuddle Party online. Max class size: 20; Materials fee: $10.

Drum & Dance
Join us for the evening's bonfire drumming and dancing.

Erotic Trance Dance for Release - Michelle Zee
Do you hold on to stuck emotions in your body? Do you enjoy moving freely, uninhibited, to the sound of primitive rhythms? Do you want to go on an erotic shamanic journey with others in a sacred space? Trance Dancing is easy to learn and releases stuck emotions from both mind and body. Plus it is fun to do! The focus is on connecting with self and spirit, not on how well you "perform." To facilitate this we will dance in a darkened space. Join us as we dance to the five rhythms: the feminine, masculine, chaos, integrated and stillness. Dancing to stillness? How can that be? —find out at the dance! To help people get into the trance, there will be no talking at this event once we start dancing. Wear fun clothes or bring scarves or blindfolds to dance with.

Exchanging Power OTK - Selene & Bellavia & Arakeane
The Over The Knee (OTK) ritual is one of the most powerful in all of BDSM oriented mysticism. Many practitioners find it so powerful that they do not even include it in the same genre as BDSM. The foundation of the ritual lies in the natural and simplistic parent-child discipline position design to simplify control of the spanked with minimum opportunity for injury. As adults, we use this simple though humbling position for a far more erotic purpose, as the ritualistic centerpiece in a complex web of power exchange. In this workshop, we will explore a number of aspects of the OTK experience, and share our understanding of its mysticism. Bring your toy bag and come prepared to talk about those experiences and observations that you wish to share with others.

Exciting the Writer: Sexuality - Robin Renée
Connecting to the freely-flowing Universal Energy all around us is a profound and immediate way to open to the creative Source. This non-judgmental experience will take you on a journey through movement, silent meditation, music, and chant as portals to the awakening writer within. There's always something new to discover, whether you are a beginner, a professional, a slam poet, or a closet novelist. Special attention will be given to tapping into the stories of discovery, expression, and celebration of our sexualities. Please bring your journal or notebook, a writing utensil, and something to sit on.

Exploratorium - CoDE
Back by popular demand! Circle members and a range of friends and associates gather together to provide an educational space to learn about different paths and techniques in their Path of Ordeal, and others. Please join the Circle of Dark Eros in the Exploratorium to sample new experiences in sensation in this safe, supportive forum, with demonstrations by skilled and experienced presenters. Learn more about techniques, tools, toys, safety, and sharing of intent—both for fun and for spiritual purposes. Bring questions, an open mind, a curious nature, and a desire to learn and share!

Exploring The Rosebud and Pelvic Cradle: Introduction - Jeremiah - Tantric Shamanic Healers Group
Society declares the anus is only for elimination and gives "... don't touch except to wipe" kinds of messages. Separation from your inner core occurs when inappropriate sexual advances are forced upon you. Sexual wounding affects your sexual pleasure, your feelings of safety and security, your relationships, your ability to express yourself creatively and your ability to manifest abundance and prosperity. Shame and feelings of unworthiness are most directly reached via the anus.

The Illusion of Separation drives our world, permeating our society, perpetuating "sexual power over" others and increasing exponentially with each new generation. Become One with your Anus.

Introduction: Approaching the anus in a sacred manner opens up enormous possibilities for healing and pleasure. If you want to totally relax someone in just 15 minutes, applying these massage techniques to another's anus is what you want to know. If you are interested in learning how to provide healing for your partner by massaging their tailbone or their prostate, this is where you start. In our society, allowing sacred sexual touch around the anus brings up all sorts of barriers to feeling whole and safe in your own skin and having all you need in life. If this includes you, perhaps now is the time to explore that in a safe and sacred environment. The introduction will be a presentation and discussion followed by a demonstration on at least one willing participant. This will be a demonstration of either prostate massage and/or tailbone adjustment massage in preparation for the partner practice session. There maybe a demonstration of full pelvic bodywork healing techniques that combines internal anal massage with either internal yoni (vulva) or lingam (penis) massage, depending on who volunteers. Bring blankets/pillows and personal lube for couples pod work. You may choose (and change, as you feel inspired) your own boundaries on how you will give or receive sacred touch to/from other participants. Max class size: 20.

Exploring The Rosebud and Pelvic Cradle: Partner Practice Session - Jeremiah - Tantric Shamanic Healers Group
The practice session is only open to those who participated in the introduction session and is for participants only, not observers. Please bring your willing partner (who also attended the introduction) to the session. This will build on the introduction by creating a sacred space for one partner to provide external and internal anal massage (prostate & tailbone) to the other. There may be an opportunity to switch roles, so choose who goes first quickly. Bring blankets/pillows & personal lube for couples pod work. Caution: Tailbone work is a highly specialized form of touch requiring one to be extremely present to provide healing, not harm. So: don't try this at home alone; come to the second Session, where you'll be guided into such a place. Max class size: 20.

Fused Glass Jewelry: Pendants, Earrings, Worry-stones - Tina Van Pelt - Fused Glass
Beginning workshop allowing the participants to work with beautiful glass and inclusions to form a pendant, earrings, ornament or other small (1½" x 2") glass piece. I will teach several techniques including the use of foils and glass and wire bending to be included in the piece. You can see some of the types of glass you can create at my studio website. You are welcome to make more than one piece. You'll have to stop back to pick up your piece after it is fired to choose and glue on your jewelry bail. I'll also have cord available for wearing your art piece. There is a materials fee of $20.00 per piece to cover the glass and findings. Max class size: 12.

Getting out of Debt: A Practical Guide - Steven Fenton
In this workshop, we will take a look at spending habits, ways to reduce expenses and/or increase income, lower your tax burden, cut waste, and wrangle your debt down to $0, often far sooner than you expect. I will present a doable plan that you can live with within the means that you make now. After the workshop, I will work with people on individual plans as time allows.

Getting Real: Practicing Honesty in Sex and Relationships - Michelle Zee
"Presence is what makes you radiantly alive, confident, and attractive. The key to presence is honesty."

Being present and honest has helped me greatly in my relating! The key to good sex and relationships is honest communication—but how often do we get to learn how to communicate honesty in a safe environment? How often does it happen and why is it so hard? Most people are afraid to be totally honest. They fear damaging relationships by creating conflict, or hurting another's feelings. But learning to attend to your own here-now experience rather than worrying about the outcome, uncovers the real source of personal power and self-trust. This workshop will help by experiencing the difference between thinking, feeling, and noticing You will practice speaking honestly and noticing how language affects the way we communicate. Engaging games & exercises make this workshop fun too! Whether your interest in communication is for polyamory, S/M, coming out, or other relationship reasons this workshop will help.

A Hand in the Bush - Lela
Vaginal fisting is a sexual activity that isn't often talked about. So, we'll talk about it, and then have a demonstration. First, we will have will have a review of more than basic women's anatomy. Then, with the help of my lovely assistant, we will demonstrate vaginal fisting. Bring your own lube and gloves, plus something to lay on if you'd like a chance to participate!

Healing and Hot Wax - Kate
In the path of Ordeal, there are many ways to combine healing and physical experience. In this workshop, participants will be paired (or may participate with partner(s)) for a guided healing meditation using hot melted wax to use the body to release the mind to manifest Intent and connect to the Divine. Bring a towel or ground covering to go under a provided dropcloth, and something to use as a blindfold. Donations to offset the cost of supplies are welcome, but not required.

The History of Sex - Marie
Come and learn about sex throughout history, from ancient Roman and Greek rituals to modern-day taboos. Find out why Chinese sexual history is interesting and yin for women is important. Find out what Cleopatra did to her slaves and so much more. Note: Please don't wear lavender or lilac scent to this class.

I Meant to Do That—The Art of Intention and Touch - Whittney Matlock
The average human body is wrapped in 16 square feet of living, breathing skin. This packaging miracle is wired with hundreds of thousands of sensors that tell your brain about pressure, temperature, pain and all the other glorious sensations we feel, or can feel every moment of every day. This marvel of biological engineering is the canvas on which you create all sensation. The palette from which your create is the mind that organizes and interprets the information from the skin. This class will focus on how to play on these two amazing sexual organs (the skin and the mind) with your best tool for doing so, your hands and your intention. With just the raw material at your fingertips, you can explore, tease and tantalize every part of a partner's body. With this kind of play, anything is possible. Bring your skin and sense of play to discover how powerful those 8 fingers, 2 thumbs and palms can be. Get ready for a class dedicated to reaching out and... well, you get the idea.

Impact Play: The Slap that Tickles your Fancy - Whittney Matlock
One of the earliest instruments that humans figured out was the drum. That beat has come down to us through our ancestors and has found its way into many parts of our lives, from our rituals to how we play with each other. Early drums were covered with the skins of the animals we feasted on. Our instruments are our playmates who we feast on with our senses. The rhythm of the drum is one way to send us into trance space. The rhythm of impact play can do so in an even more strikingly personal way. Impact play covers a large area of skills with some fairly simple straightforward rules about where and how to play. Once you know the basics, intention and magik can enter your play. Then things really get interesting. Knowing where, how, with what and why to strike your favorite playmate, there's an infinite world of possibilities available to you.

Integrity in Poly Relationships - Julio Cortes
In this workshop we will work with what integrity is and how it relates to poly relationships. What are the rules and assumptions we live by? How does this help and hurt us in relationships? How honest are we and should we be? Also, how important are rules when we are relating to others? Can there be freedom within the realm of rules? What is the connection between integrity and power, and how does this all relate to relationships?

This practical workshop is part discussion and part groupwork. For, parts there will be discussions in large and small group.s Then, there will be exercises that will challenge participants and cause an experiential understanding of the following topics: a. Truth; b. Following your heart; c. Word - Keeping it and/or honoring it; d. Cleaning up messes.

The purpose of this workshop is to get participants to think about how they can apply what they understand of integrity to their relationships in a powerful way, such that they have more intimacy, passion and love in their lives. Please come with an open mind and ready to work.

Intimacy as a Spiritual Path - Sarah Taub & Michael Rios
What would relationship be like if everyone took 100% responsibility for their own feelings? What if every surge of emotion was seen as an invitation to connect with essence and rise to a new level of awareness and love? What if we made the commitment to never again blame another person for our feelings? The more we do our own spiritual work, the more available and loving we are in the moment. We no longer cling to rules and impose agreements that we hope will keep our partners from triggering painful emotions in us; we welcome those emotions, work through them, and delight in our connections whatever form they might take. These insights, though drawn from the facilitators' polyamorous paths, apply just as well to all our relationships and interactions with others, sexual or non-sexual, polyamorous or monogamous, casual or intimate. Join us as we walk the path of open-hearted relationship!

Intimate Exposure - Sarah Taub & Michael Rios
One of the key skills to living a loving and powerful life is the ability to understand yourself and your own reactions; another is the ability to "show up"—to communicate your truth to others. This experiential workshop gives participants an opportunity to practice being fully present and revealing themselves to a supportive group. Using a format called ZEGG Forum (not related to Landmark Forum), the facilitators create a safe, loving container where participants may step out in front of the group and share what is going on for them. If the participant wishes, there is an opportunity for the group to give verbal feedback on how the participant came across. We often wear masks out of fear; this is an opportunity to get emotionally 'naked.' Profound shifts in consciousness can occur as we reveal or witness what has been kept hidden. If you are having emotional responses to being at Beltane, this can be a place to share your truth of the moment. This workshop is open to all, but in order to create a safe space, we request that people do not come in late.

Introduction & Orientation for Tantric Maithuna Ritual - Shiva Mai
In this session, we will share a thorough description of the Maithuna Ritual, and gently review the sacred intimacy practices involved in preparation for the evening's ritual. This review session is intended for those with serious interest in and intent to participate in the ritual.

Introduction to Watersports - Freeheart
Watersports—no, we're not talking about sailing! Watersports is the term used to describe any kind of sexual play involving urine (also known as pee play). We will talk about the various ways in which pee play is used, and dispel some of the myths surrounding it. For the adventurous, there may be an opportunity at the end to participate in the famous 'golden shower'. Drink plenty of water!

Is That a Chakra in Your Pocket or are You Just Happy to See Me? - Whittney Matlock
In our world of energy healers and meditators, it's amazing that anyone is getting together to have any fun. All these lofty ideas about our energy selves and higher purposes they move us toward seem to always forget one thing. We are here to have some fun. The energy centers which we call chakras can be used for more than just healing and raising consciousness. They can be used to deepen our experiences of our bodies and to expand the connections we make with our play mates. Together let's explore how to use the energies of our chakras to reach out and touch each other. Opening up to share the gifts of ourselves with another is a scary and exciting adventure. With some intention and gentle practice you can connect like you have never connected before.

Kirtan-o-Rama! - Robin Renée
Kirtan is a form of call and response chanting in the Indian devotional tradition. We will sing the Holy Names of God/dess in the ancient, sacred language of Sanskrit. The repetition of these mantras brings one to deep stillness and bliss, helps balance the masculine and feminine energies, and facilitates a profound sense of oneness with All. Please do come, bring percussion and instruments, sing out, and join the joyful noise. A meditation cushion or pillow for floor-sitting is also recommended.

Love on Venus's Terms - Sophia HeartSinger
Are you 'fated to be multi-mated?' Come explore the relationship between Polyamory and Astrology. The discussion is based upon Vedic astrology from India, an amazingly accurate system that is little known in the West. Venus turns out to have Her own standards of True Love, which don't always mesh with society's! Does astrology have any markers for gayness? What's the impact of Mars on your testosterone level? Where might astrology show a predilection toward Power-Exchange relationships? Come find out! (Beginner level. No prerequisites, but a basic knowledge of astrology is helpful.).

Magick Fingers - Selene & Bellavia & Arakeane
Focusing energy in various parts of the body, most particularly in the hands, is a common technique in virtually all energy enlightenment paths. In a similar fashion, the use of the hands is ubiquitous in erotic stimulation. But when stimulation is focused on the smaller, "naughty parts", it is the fingers that become the critical element. Whether one is using the fingers for erotic energy work, healing, or some other magickal purpose; learning to focus ones energy within the fingers and upon the finger tips is a powerful skill. This workshop will discuss a number of exercises one can perform to increase the potential energy flow from the fingers and to focus magick therein. The workshop will also present the use of magickal fingers for erotic energy work. Attendees can participate in exercises to the extent that they are comfortable. Bring a blanket or pillow for comfort.

Male Member - Whittney Matlock
Do you love your Male's Member? Here's a way to show him. Bring your male, and his member to learn new ways to stoke his *ahem* ego. The techniques you learn in this hands-on workshop are culled from a variety of teachings, relying heavily on Taoist techniques of male self pleasure (masturbation). Getting to the root of the matter, this class teaches physical techniques, breath work and visualizations to get his whole body focused on what you are doing to him. You are encouraged to bring a partner with you to this class, (solo attendees will be paired randomly, with consent of course). This class will be limited to 40 participants at and may be further limited by available space as well. Please bring towels or mats to lay on for comfort and to help keep the space clean. We'll be using lots of coconut oil for massage in this class, so bring soap and a clean towel if you wish to wash up afterwards.

Many Loves, Many Gods: The Poly-Pagan Continuum - Robin Renée
Given that many Pagans experience god and goddess forms of the divine as expressions of ultimate love, it isn't surprising that many are also poly—open to more than one relationship in the physical as well as the spiritual realms. In this workshop, participants will contemplate and discuss the interplay of polyamory and religion in their lives, the breakthroughs and the challenges, and how venturing into one may or may not have helped illuminate the other. The workshop will begin with a ceremony of entering into sacred space and will end with a ritual to facilitate personal vision of divinity and unification among our paths. Appropriate for those who are deeply familiar with both communities and newcomers alike.

Merry Meet! Jump-Starting Intimacy - Sarah Taub & Michael Rios
Who are the people here at Sacred Sexuality Beltane? Some of us are excited and nervous newbies, some of us are working through many issues related to combining sex and spirit, and some of us have arrived at a place of ease in our sexual/spiritual practices. Most workshop formats allow only a hint of our passions and complexities to emerge. Let's find out who's here and what we have to offer each other! We'll spend much of the time moving around, meeting new folks and deepening existing relationships. Through 'human spectrums' and other dynamic techniques, the facilitators will guide the group in bringing out the challenges and rewards of sex-positive spirituality. Participants can ask questions of the group and get quick, direct feedback on issues they care about. We'll also have time to go deeper in several one-on-one connections, where we'll get to choose partners whose responses intrigued us. This is a quick, fun, easy way to meet lots of people and to get a sense of the diversity of the group, plus a chance to share the spiritual and sexual insights we have learned. This is a beginning-level workshop, open to all attendees.

Overcoming Homophobia (and Heterophobia) - Wilddragon
Working with Sacred Sexuality does not require that you be sexually attracted to your non-preferred gender, but it does require at least an indifference to physical closeness and accidental intimate touch. In this workshop we will deliberately touch each other to desensitize involuntary homophobic (or heterophobic) reactions that can interfere with sacred and magical work. We will also touch while visualizing ourselves as persons of the opposite sex, thus tapping the energy of our own sexual orientation in new situations. We will finish with a guided meditation of a romantic encounter between an opposite-sex self and a Deity of the non-preferred gender. Every effort will be made to accommodate any and all genders.

Percussion and Impact Play (Experiential Playshop) - Nyx
Whips, paddles, floggers, canes, and crops! Percussion and impact play can feel like anything from a butterfly's kiss to a rain of fire. Let me show you the various implements used for impact play and allow you to try them on yourselves, or if negotiated, with a partner. Bring your curiosity and your open mind. Bring a partner or two if you'd like. Let's explore the boundaries of sensation! Max class size: 14.

Play After the Pause: Menopausal Sexuality - Beth & Preston
Hormonal changes, whether from menopause, medications or something else, can dramatically change the way a woman experiences her sexuality, but they do not mean the fun has to end. Come explore with us how to wake up those urges and bring things back to exciting life. This hands-on class is geared towards couples, but if you or someone you love is coping with changes in her sexuality, feel free to come explore with us.

Play Party - CoDE
Join us for the festival's play space. Please be familiar with—and willing to follow—the Playspace Rules (including safety precautions, activity restrictions, house safewords, and local guidelines).

Pleasure as Spiritual Practice - Patricia & Mark
Most spiritual traditions—both Eastern and Western—take a dim view of pleasure. In Tantra, however, pleasure can be used as a tool for spiritual growth. Consciousness is the key to transforming mundane pleasure into something more profound. In this workshop, we will explore both the theory and practice of bringing consciousness to pleasurable experience and help you begin exploring your pleasure more fully and intentionally.

Polyamorous Relationships: Emotional Edgeplay - Christina Parker
Polyamorous relationships can be wonderful, viable options for many people—and they can spell disaster for others. In this workshop, slavette discusses various types of polyamorous relationships and shares the lessons she's learned from her polyamorous relationships. Beginner/Intermediate.

Polyamory Discussion - Lela
Polyamory is the art and practice of loving more than one. That's about the only definition poly people can agree on (and maybe not even that). So, if you are poly, or would like to know more about poly, this is a workshop for you. This roundtable discussion is a chance to share your own questions and experiences with polyamory. Please be open to listening to other people's viewpoints and sharing your own.

Responsible Blood Play - Sacred Mark Sanctuary
Playing and working with blood, one of the sacred essences of life, requires giving the medium a great deal of respect. For those who practice the Art of Blood Play, safety is of primary concern. Join members of the Sacred Mark Sanctuary for a session on what the dangers of blood are and how to work around them safely. There will be a piercing demo and participation is welcome.

The Ritual of the Quadishu - Wilddragon
In this workshop we will explore the path of serving as a sexual priest or priestess, manifesting the erotic aspects of a God or Goddess to His/Her worshiper(s). We will begin with a short discussion, then cast a circle. During the ritual, those participants who feel inspired may stand forth as priests and priestesses, through whom other participants may address worship. The level of sexual contact is entirely up to the participants. A priest/ess may quite properly do no more than rest her hands on the shoulders of a worshipper, and a worshipper may also set his/her own boundaries. On the other hand, the only restriction on the extent of sexual worship is that safer sex must be practiced. This ritual is an intensely religious experience for priest/ess and worshiper alike, and works best when undertaken with genuine reverence and awe for the Gods.

Rituals and the History of Cuttings/Scarification - Marie
Find out the history behind scarification. Learn the various rituals and reasons behind symbols, markings, patterns and tools. Explore the ancient ways rituals were used for growing, serving, man/womanhood and more.

Robin Hood, Lord of May - Stephen Winick
This workshop is open to anyone interested in Robin Hood, the archetypal Lord of May, especially as he appears in traditional songs and ballads of Great Britain. We'll discuss Robin Hood's connection with Paganism: his roots in Green Man and Wild man traditions; his background in Celtic and English mythology; and his dedication to the Divine Feminine in the forms of the Virgin Mary, Mary Magdalene, and his own Maid Marian. Since this is Beltane, we'll look especially at his central role in Maytime ritual and drama. We'll also discuss the weird, wild world of the Robin Hood ballads: Robin's birth on the wrong side of a noblewoman's bed; his deeds both good and questionable; his savage battle with the bestial Guy of Gisbourne, and his death, foretold in ancient Celtic fashion by a 'washer at the ford.' Steve will sing several Robin Hood Ballads, and teach at least one chorus to the class!

Rope Bondage 101 - RopeBoy
Intro to rope bondage will include history, rope selection, preparation, cleaning, and care. Also will include some safety tips, techniques, and pre-scene questions. Then will progress to simple basic knots, lashings and bindings that work. There will be instructional DVDs for the first 20 people.

Rope Bondage 201 - RopeBoy
Part 1: Intermediate rope bondage. Applied basics of rope bondage. Basic positions, situations, and combined techniques. Rope bras, Karadas, and more bindings. Part 2: Intermediate rope bondage. Creating scenes, artistic bondage, energywork through ropework.

Sacred Body Integration: Introduction and Demonstration - Jeremiah - Tantric Shamanic Healers Group
Did you know that your sexual beliefs are the most powerful way to get what you want, or to NOT get what you want?

The sexual act in its most basic form is the act of creation, creating life. But did you know that the energy of sex is also the energy with which you manifest? What if sex isn't just about sexual energy? What if it's also the energy that allows you to manifest anything?

Our negative sexual beliefs can prevent us from manifesting on all levels—financially, physically, relationally, emotionally and spiritually. Western society does not embrace an individual's sexual expression, which can lead to energetic repression. When a person develops negative sexual beliefs, conflicting thoughts and emotions are created in the body that separates us from our personal Life Force—the same Life Force that enables us to manifest everything in life. If we're willing to get in touch with who we are, there is nothing we need from outside ourselves.

Introduction Session: Approaching the pelvis in a sacred manner opens up enormous possibilities for healing and pleasure. If you are interested in learning how to provide healing for your partner by massaging their pelvis both externally and internally in a way that integrates their pelvis with their heart, this is where you start. The introduction will consist of a presentation and discussion followed by a demonstration on at least one willing participant. This will be a demonstration of connecting the pelvis and the heart using breath and several mudras on the part of the giver. The receiver learns to surrender to whatever shows up. There may be a demonstration of full pelvic bodywork healing techniques that combines internal anal massage with either internal yoni (vulva) or lingam (penis) massage, depending on who volunteers. Bring blankets/pillows and personal lube for couples pod work. You may choose (and change, as you feel inspired) your own boundaries on how you will give or receive sacred touch with other participants.

Sacred Body Integration: Partner Healing Sessions - Jeremiah - Tantric Shamanic Healers Group
The partner healing sessions are only open to those who participated in the introduction session and is for participants only, not observers. Please bring your willing partner (who also attended the introduction) to the session.

This will build on the Sacred Body Integration introduction by creating a sacred space for one partner to provide external and internal pelvic massage to the other. There may be an opportunity to switch roles, so choose who goes first quickly. Bring blankets/pillows & personal lube for couples pod work. Caution: Tailbone work is a highly specialized form of touch requiring one to be extremely present to provide healing, not harm. So: don't try this at home alone; come to the practice session where you'll be guided into such a place.

Sandbox Exploration - Michelle Zee
Do you want to have clearer boundaries? Are you afraid to ask for what you want? Do you get anxious that you won't say no when you want to? Come to the Sandbox and learn how to create clear boundaries. Practicing saying "No" helps us be clearer on what we want to say Yes to and to whom. Learning to hear No from someone else without having to turn it into a rejection story is refreshing too. Saying or hearing No can be hard at first, so we will loosen up first with some body movement exercises! Finally we will practice our skill in a play sandbox where you can ask for touch and decide if you want to accept touch or not from others.

Sandbox Explorations gets its name from the idea that when we take responsibility for establishing clear personal boundaries, it makes it safer for us and others to play together in a safe, authentic way. More connection, joy and intimacy result. So, if I tell you some clear basic ground rules about what it takes for me to feel safe in my own virtual sandbox, than you can safely get close to me and I can safely open to you.

Sandbox Explorations is a community of diverse folks who share the desire to expand the level of fun and connection in their lives. We meet every Wednesday in the Washington DC area for a gathering and dinner.

Sensation for Fun, Sex and Scene - Beth & Preston
What sensations turn you on when you play; visual, sound, smell, taste, but most important this time, touch! Stroking, patting, rubbing, with fur, a towel, a comb? Come and hear and see and feel and learn and try! In this hands-on class, we'll tell you, show you, coach you on how to maximize the sensation and delight with your partner. We'll have presentation, demonstration, discussion, and guided practice. This is an opportunity go give and receive sensation as well a chance to try a variety of sensations you may not have tried so far.

Sensual Chocolate Sampler - Puck & the Brewmaster
Back by popular demand: the chance to indulge yourself in a chocolate tasting experience! Puck and the Brewmaster will be your guides on a voyage of discovery through chocolate's racy history (including its euphoric, aphrodisiac reputation) and its modern lore. The tasting will include a minimum of 5 types of intense, gourmet chocolate, fed to you by one or more partners of your choice.

Bring your partner(s), or be willing to pair up with someone else at the workshop. Wine will also be served at this event. Attendance is limited to 20 people; please sign up at Check-in. Materials fee: $12; [21+].

The Sensual Art of Belly Dance - Aziza Azhar
Invite your Inner Goddess to emerge through the ancient art of sacred, sensual belly dance. Come shimmy, vibrate and undulate, and learn the basic movements of belly dance. Dancers of all sizes, shapes and sexes are invited to explore the dance in a playful and supportive environment. Aziza will have coin belts available for your dancing pleasure during class.

Sexual Bhakti - Wilddragon
Bhakti is a Sanskrit term derived from the verb "bhaj" meaning "to love, adore, enjoy, eat, or make love to." It denotes passionate love for a God or Goddess and is one of the major religious paths within Hinduism. In Bhakti, the worshiper experiences Deity as a personal Other, rather than (as in some other Hindu philosophies) an impersonal Infinite that is in some sense identical with the self. In the words of one Bhakti devotional, "I want to taste sugar, I don't wand to be sugar." In this workshop, we will focus on experiencing sexual desire and sexual arousal as worship of the Divine Beloved. We will engage in touch, but our focus will be arousal without climax.

Sexual Shamanism: Tantric Breathwork and The Erotic Dance of Shiva - Shiva Mai
In this session, we will discuss using sexual energy to access hidden or lost aspects of our being, including higher states of consciousness. Specifically we will discuss two tantric practices that can be deepened with the conscious use of erotic energy: Tantric Shamanic Breathwork and Tandava, the Dance of Shiva. Tandava is a slow graceful energy dance that is gently guided from the stillness within. This is a powerful practice for "getting out of the way" and letting life flow through you naturally. Our meditation will begin solo, and may evolve into the possibility of inner-guided interaction with others. We will add spice to the mix by consciously generating erotic energy and using that to deepen the meditation and connection to source. For those who choose to linger after the session, we may have space for inner guided group massage and healing.

Singing in the May! - Jennifer Cutting & Stephen Winick
Singing and dancing have been part of British Mayday celebrations from medieval times to the present, and many May singing traditions survived to modern times in oral tradition. In this gathering, you'll hear some of the old May songs, as well as a contemporary selection or two. In addition to May music, we'll hear other ballads and songs about love and fertility, as well as some downright erotic songs. Bring your voices and drums if you'd like to sing along, or feel free to just come and listen!

SM: A Spiritual Toolbox - Christina Parker
In addition to being a sexy good time, SM can be used as a tool to provide a spiritual experience. While anything can (and does) happen, different techniques lead to different types of experiences. In this workshop, Christina explores various SM techniques (flogging, waxing, piercing, bondage, mummification, and other impact play) and discusses where the dynamics of each technique are likely to lead the participants. This workshop has been described as a 'why to' workshop rather than a 'how to' and assumes a knowledge of basic SM techniques and safety. Intermediate/Advanced.

Super Safe Sex - Freeheart
The term 'safer sex' has come into vogue because most forms of sex entail some risk, no matter how careful we are. However, there are some things you can still do that are very safe. We will talk about activities that do not involve exchange of body fluids or use of protective barriers, and we will describe and demonstrate a few super safe sex activities that can be fun, including a position that involves mouths, hands, breasts, nipples, and genitals, and still is safe. Curious? Bring a blanket, and if you choose, you can try it with a partner at the end of the workshop!

Tantric Maithuna Ritual: Making Love with God-dess - Shiva Mai
Maithuna is an ancient tantric ritual that celebrates the marriage of sex and spirit—a "forbidden" element in many patriarchal spiritual traditions. We share gradually deepening intimacy practices that lead to exchange of sacred sexual union, culminating in the stillness of meditation. To be clear, this ritual is much more than just another chance to have sex in group space; it is a celebration and worship of divine presence in the form of your partner, and a prayer for world peace and paradise on Earth. Come ready to engage all of your chakras in expressing divine love.

Notes: This ritual is intended for couples (dyads) who share some level of commitment in sacred relationship, to keep the energy of the ritual space coherent and focused. Open to couples of any intimate relationship orientation. Full sexual union is optional. We will accept couples until our temple space is full. Attending the Introduction & Orientation beforehand is recommended.

The Tantric Erogenic Zones (Kama Marmas) - Patricia & Mark
In Tantric sexual practice, it is crucial to extend the excitement phase. The Tantric and Ayurvedic traditions have long recognized specific zones of the body that are particularly responsive to stimulation, and some schools of Tantra (particularly in South India) have developed a systematic approach to the stimulation of these zones in order to produce high states of arousal. This system was introduced to the West by Dr. Jonn Mumford in 1976 and is still little known. In this workshop, we will introduce you to these zones and the basic principles for working with them systematically.

Things That Go Buzz in the Night: Sex Toys 101 - Zammis
Overwhelmed visiting a store? Have no idea what to buy when you look online? Come have fun at an enjoyable and educational presentation of a wide variety of sex toys, including massage tools, vibrators, cock rings, jackrabbits, positional straps and other odds and ends. You'll be able to see, touch, smell and taste while relaxing, laughing, and maybe learning something new.

Thou Art Goddess - Lela
Self-image and self-esteem are huge issues for women today. When we get together in festival space, it is a chance to shed some of those issues. Yet this is easier said than done! It is one thing to know that we hold images of Goddesses within us, another to feel that we are Goddesses. This workshop will help start working with these concepts. Note: This workshop will be focusing on women's self-esteem and Goddess images. It is open to all who want to work on this.

Time and Again: An Exploration of Photography & Sexuality - Sacred Mark Sanctuary
Voyeur and exhibitionist come together, using photography to explore new avenues of expression in the bedroom. Bring your camera and your partner to this workshop, facilitated by Dee and Abe, where we create art using both our bodies and minds. Participants will learn technical skills and the confidence, patience, and trust needed to incorporate photography into everyday sexuality. Cameras are permitted at this workshop only.

Why You Deserve an Ordeal - Whittney Matlock
Through out the world, ordeal is used as a spiritual practice by many cultures. Even in our own culture we have remnants of ancient ordeal that have adapted and hung on. What is so important about them? What makes them useful? Why do they scare us? As sympathetic magik, they offer opportunities for healing. As rites of passage, they challenge us when we most need it. As ritual drama they give us the chance to discover how powerful we are in the safety of sacred space so that when confronted with the ordeals of life we are ready to face them with confidence and faith in ourselves. Together, let's explore the theory and practice of ordeals in ritual. We will also talk about sources of inspiration, ways to make a safe container for these practices and what to do if things go wrong. Come join in the discussion. Look into the eyes of what scares you. It is amazing what you will find there.

You Want to Do What? or, BDSM 101 - Kate
An overview of what you can expect to see or hear in the BDSM community, as well as issues related to playing in "public." This workshop will review etiquette, implements, and toys. Terminology and general concepts will be outlined and types of play will be demonstrated. Questions will be welcomed! This workshop is highly recommended for folks new to the BDSM Scene who would like to attend the Festival's dungeon space (which will follow the this workshop). Bring an open mind, your ideas and your questions!