Fires of Venus 2008 Draft List of Classes Times and locations listed are subject to change
Fires of Venus 2008 Draft List of Classes Class descriptions are only for folks 18 & older.
Aphrodite's Love - Amy
Have you ever allowed yourself to experience the unconditional love of the Goddess of Love? You are worthy of it by virtue of the fact that it is unconditional. We are all her perfect children, no matter the imperfections we see in ourselves. Come for a discussion on how Aphrodite's energy effects us.
Fri 10:00a, E&F
Avoid the Pitfalls and Reap the Rewards of Poly Relationships - Anita Wagner
Suitable for all levels of experience, intended audience is those attending who are interested in
polyamory. 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. This fast-paced workshop teaches 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.
Sat 10:00a, E&F
Beating The Energetic Body: Tantric Practice And BDSM - SMS
Abraham and Kelly from Sacred Mark Sanctuary are experienced kinksters who bring their knowledge and practice of Tantra and energy work to their scening. Come learn practical breathing exercises, how to focus and move energy about the body, and how to use the energetic body to your advantage during BDSM. No experience necessary!
Fri 1:30p, BDH
Become the Firebird - Selene
Spiritual learning comes from experience. The fire bird symbolizes our innate desire to raise energy and set our spirits free! This is an experiential class on fire play in sacred space. A circle is formed about our altar to the fire. Selene will discuss safety, and demonstrate sacred, sensual, fire-play. Thereafter, each participant may choose to receive the blessings of fire and/or give it blessings. Note that although fire play might be thought of as edgy, we have conducted this ritual with over 100 people to date and the fire has blessed us with nothing more serious than the occasional slight sunburn effect.
“If you are brave enough to burn, then you are brave enough to fly...” – Skinny White Chick
Thu 8:00p, TCT; Fri 8:30p, TCT
A Brief History of Sacred BDSM - Arakeane and Selene
Fires of Venus opens another panoply in the continuing saga of sacred sexuality and BDSM (note that we really don't like this term) at Camp Ramblewood. The first class on sacred BDSM was held by us during FSG in 1995 entitled Raising Power via Scourging. In subsequent years, we initiated the infamous Cabin 5 party and were instrumental in many of the doings that led to the Beltane Sacred Sensuality festival. This class will be not only a lecture, but an open invitation to anyone who would like to add to the history. Our end intent is to incorporate a number of views on our history into a document that may be shared by the community. You may participate (by name, craft name, or anonymously) and add your own history into this document.
Fri 10:00a, OPQR
Creating Sacred Space—What, When, Why and How - Christina 'slavette' Parker
Whether you want to have a powerful ritual, hot scene, great sex, or simply relax, sacred space can be an important element in achieving your goal. What is sacred space? When you should incorporate it? Why does it work? How do you create it? In this workshop, Christina Parker answers these questions and discusses the basic elements of sacred space.
Thu 3:45p, BDH
Conspire-Ring - Whittney Matlock
The deepest part of the magik we are creating together in the Alchemical Lab of our Fire Circle is the beauty we create together. The act of creating beauty in the Fire Circle is called 'Bringing It On!' This time is set aside for anyone and everyone who wants to help Bring It On! the magik inside the Fire Circle each night. Everyone is invited to share their ideas of what they want to Bring On in the circle and contribute to the intention setting rituals set for that night's Fire. If you are not sure you have anything to Bring On, join us and get inspired. Come make the magik happen.
Thu 3:45p, TC; Fri 1:30p, TC; Sat 1:30p, OPQR
Cuddle Party - Edie
Imagine being immersed in love soup: enjoying having your feet massaged by one person, your back by another, while you are snuggling up against someone else who is purring like a kitten because they too are being treated to this kind of experience. Blend portable skills that can enable you to communicate your needs, improve your relationships, set boundaries, enhance self esteem. Mix in one more ingredient: PJs. Stir until warm and you are at a Cuddle Party.
The Cuddle Party is an evening entertainment and workshop in one that could help set the tone for the rest of your fabulous weekend. A love donation is requested to help cover the snacks. Cuddle Party rules say that clothing remains on the entire time, so it is important that you don some kind of garb (shorts, sweats, t-shirt, PJs) to join us. Lest you think that will limit your fun... think again. It is sometimes more rewarding to learn intimacy skills with clothing on than with clothing off. If you can, please bring blankets to spread on the floor for cuddling comfort. There will be a sign-up sheet; maximum attendance is 30. It will really help to know how many will be there. This is a not-to-be missed opportunity to play!
Fri 8:30p–12:00m, S&T
Cultivating and Controlling Sexual Energy - Tom Swiss
The ancient traditions of Chinese Medicine recognize sexual activity as a valuable way to
cultivate qi, the energy of life, as well as to promote harmony in relationships. In this workshop
we will discuss breathing, visualization, and acupressure techniques that can enhance both
health and lovemaking. While some of the techniques discussed will be specific for men, many
can be practiced by both men and women.
Sat 3:45p, E&F
Dancing with Flame - Sensual & Spiritual Fireplay - Pyro Sadist aka Brian
Fireplay is definitely edge play, for anything with fire is implicitly dangerous. But I have found that fireplay has a sensual eroticism and art to it that so many can relate to. Who among us hasn't sat transfixed, gazing into a fire's light? And wanted to feel and witness that same sensual flow of warm flame across our bodies, lapping over, then passing and leaving only a warm lingering touch? No experience is necessary for this class; some practice materials will be available for use. The class will cover technique, safety, and sensual/art/erotic applications. Even if you might not think it's quite your thing, you might be surprised by the sensual beauty and artistry of the flame. Demo volunteers, while not required, are certainly welcome. For anyone and everyone who has an interest or appreciation of the beauty of fire.
Dancing with Flame consists of three classes: Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced.
Fri 3:45p, TC (Beginning); Sat 1:30p, TC (Intermediate); Sat 3:45p, TC (Advanced)
Fires of Venus 101 - SMS
Meet the event facilitators and learn the basics of the Fire Circle as the Temple of Venus. Drawing from the shamanic and alchemical fire circle models, and mixing in a healthy dose of sacred sexuality, we are exploring new subtle interplays that bring magic to the circle. How can we commune with Spirit and each other through play, healing, and ecstasy? Where does the addition of sacred sexuality fit in with the drum, dance, chant, play, and movement of the fire circle? What are all these temples, toys, and torches in the circle for and how can we use them to experience the connection, recognition, and interaction of the fire circle? Let's discover how Fires of Venus offers a new spiritual path, a mirthful all-night prayer, and an opportunity to fundamentally alter ourselves.
Fri and Sat 6:00p, Fire
Getting in Your Sub's Head: Psychic Experiences During Spanking & Mind Games - Arakeane
90% of the time when I spank, I get into the head of the person being spanked. I do this as a way to better understand what the person is experiencing so that I can do a better job satisfying their immediate needs. The technique for doing this is not particularly difficult and can be taught within the space of a single class. In essence, this is similar to other intuitive classes I have taught, but with a shift in the last half hour towards the spanking experience.
(*** TOP SECRET: For Subs Only ***) At the same time your top is getting into your head, you can do the same to influence the top or learn what he/she is thinking.
Sat 10:00a, OPQR
How Not to Flirt With a Goddess - Tom Swiss
Mainstream society teaches us men to behave in some amazingly stupid ways to pick up
women. We'll discuss some more sane and respectful ways to flirt with self-actualized and
aware women. While this workshop is aimed at men, women are invited to come share their
observations and advice.
Fri 1:30p, E&F
How to Ride a Drum! - Tigre
In this fundamentals workshop, we will review hand drumming technique for the West African Djembe as well as the Middle Eastern Dumbek. Then we will go through some fundamental and basic rhythms that anyone at any level of ability can use to participate in community and festival drum circles around the nation.
This is a fun class in the teaching tradition of Baba Olatunji and Jaqui MacMillan.
Sat 10:00a, DP
In Service to the Gods (Intermediate/Advanced) - Rill
What is it like when our relationship with our Patron/Matron Deities takes on a D/s tone? What
does this do to the rest of our lives? How can we successfully juggle the demands of being
Owned by a God with our mundane lives? I will share my experience, and then open the floor
to those who are curious, and those who also Serve.
Sat 10:00a, BDH
Intentional Sexuality - Beth & Preston
Having explored tools to enhance our spiritual sexuality, come experience them in action. This
will be a time dedicated to delving into our spiritual connection through our sexuality. While
some participants may choose to use a sex act as part of their journey, the intent of this
workshop is personal spiritual experience rather than overt sexual activity. For many, the
exploration may be a solo journey into their own spiritual-sexual connection. Touching is strictly
by invitation. Prerequisite: Intentional Sexuality Workshop or prior permission of presenters.
Sat 1:30p, S&T
Intentional Sexuality Workshop - Beth & Preston
Sex for the sake of sex can be fun and satisfying, but sex with intent can be transformational. In
this experiential workshop we will explore and experiment with tools that take sex beyond the
mundane, beyond touching and being touched, into those deeper parts of ourselves where we
experience our true beingness and connect with all that is. Bring an open mind and a willingness
to experience your sexuality from a different perspective. Partners are optional. Touching is by
invitation only.
Sat 10:00a, S&T
The Labyrinth: A Spiritual Path - Miss B. Haven
The Labyrinth is an archetypal symbol that can be found in one form or another in all cultures
and faiths throughout history. It has been described as a spiritual path, a walking meditation, and
a metaphor for the journey of life and faith. The Labyrinth is a spiritual tool that can be used to
discover and explore the interior self, the divine within and outside ourselves, find inner peace,
seek solutions to deeply burning questions. The Labyrinth is a safe space that when used with
sincere intention can be a place of healing, enlightenment, and spiritual growth. Come, explore
the Labyrinth with Miss B. Haven, learn how it has played a part in all religions and cultures
throughout time, discover how it can enrich your life. This workshop is for all levels from
beginners to practiced labyrinth walkers.
Thu 3:45p, OPQR
Morning Walk with Cat - Cat Castells, Coordinatrix
Join Cat, Coordinatrix and Pesky Reg Elf®, for her 30 minute morning walk each day. We'll begin and end at the dining hall. This is not for those who can't walk up and down hills, since we'll range all over Ramblewood in our walks, with a different route possible each day. It's not a leisurely stroll, either. This is Cat's morning workout. Bring hand weights if you like. Also bring questions, ideas, constructive criticism, etc., as this is a good time to tell Cat your thoughts on FoV. This event will be canceled in the event of rain.
Fri & Sat 9:00a, DH
The Pagan Girl’s Guide to Sex - Robin
Pagan Boys invited too! What do we know about how to behave ethically and morally in an alternative culture? As most of us were raised in, and all of us were influenced socially by, the Christian culture and the sexual lessons inherent there, how do we rebuild our beliefs and guidelines around sexual behavior? When you take away the rules imposed from the outside that govern your sexual practices, how do you begin to create your own personal guidelines for understanding and behavior? What do we teach our children as they become sexual creatures? Come explore the topics of bisexuality, homosexuality, polyamory, multiple partners, masturbation, and many more as we recreate the new dynamics of relationship and personal sexual behavior.
Sat 10:00a, TC
Playspace Rules Briefing - FoV Staff
Please join us for a brief review of the BDSM playspace rules. You must attend one of these sessions and sign the playspace rules waiver (and get a spiffy sticker for your badge) before you may enter the playspace.
Thu 7:15p; Fri & Sat 8:00p, TC
Polyamorous Relationships Facilitated Discussion - Anita Wagner
Suitable for all levels of experience; intended audience is those attending who are interested in
polyamory. Many wish they could sit down, talk with and get feedback from others who also
know what it's like to be in a polyamorous relationship. Here's their chance. This is an
unstructured facilitated group discussion on the poly relationships topics of the group's
choosing. Participation in the discussion is encouraged but not required, and participants are
free to ask for support and advice, or just to listen to the thoughtful, articulate, wise words of
others who have 'been there done that.' Participants will gain insight they can take home with
them and apply to their own poly relationships so as to help them thrive. Connect with others
who by their own experience understand the your relationship hopes, dreams and challenges.
Sat 3:45p, TCA
Polyamory as a Spiritual Path - Anita Wagner
Suitable for all levels of experience, intended audience is those attending who are interested in
polyamory. Many polyamorists are spiritual people. Just ask for a show of hands at any
polyamory conference, and fully two thirds of the crowd will say they identify either as
Unitarian Universalist and/or Pagan, with the rest coming anywhere from Judaism to Christianity
to atheism. How does the practice of polyamory manifest for you as a spiritual matter? What do
you seek that relates to spirituality in a polyamorous partnership? How important is it to you?
These are but a few of the questions we will explore in this facilitated group discussion.
Fri 3:45p, E&F
Positive Transformational Spanking - Arakeane
Transformations can be stimulated and accelerated by using the eight-fold path. Spanking or scourging is typically the fastest of these. What might take over 200 hours in meditation might be accomplished in 20 minutes or less. This class will explore transformational spanking and discuss when it is positive and when it is not. The importance of nurturing and caring for those who undergo such experiences will be emphasized. Participants may wish to undergo a transformation spanking within a loving and caring group atmosphere. If mutually agreeable, we will go through such a ceremony.
Sat 3:45p, OPQR
Ritual Cleansing - SwitchMe
Cleansing has long been part of the demarcation between sacred and profane. The body is
cleansed prior to many undertakings, and such cleansing is done in a ritual setting. This
interactive workshop engages participants in a gentle ritual of mutual cleansing and anointing.
The center of our sharing is touch; the entire naked body is involved. The gathering of
participants, guided and gently encouraged by the facilitator, will engage in a ritual of cleansing,
and anointment that will tap into our joyful internal energy of sex and eros. All participants will
be getting wet, followed by the shared use of body oil. You should be prepared for complete
nudity and gentle, but respectful, touch. Dress lightly—a robe is ideal—and bring a clean
towel. This event is open to people at all levels of experience and interest.
Fri 3:45p, AMP
Rope Dance - Klawdya Rothschild
Do you suffer from untying boredom? Bring your bondage off the floor, bed and down from the rack and start dancing! Consider a lively rope play alternative that will keep you engaged from first rope unfurl to last rope untie. Combine your dance floor moves while using rope to guide you and your partner to music, allowing the senses to communicate the chosen rhythm from your environment. In this class, you will engage all the attributes of rope from smell to texture, and as a blindfold, whip and more. This style works well for public and private play.
For all levels. Hands on; best with a partner, but solo is ok! Bring rope!
Fri 10:00a, TC
Rhythmic Fusion! - Tigre
In the drum circle world of today, it is very common to see the smaller middle eastern Dumbeks playing along with the much larger, and more numerous West African Djembes and Ashikos. Wouldn't it be nice if there were a way for the two styles and types of drumming to work together deliberately to make fantastic rhythms together?
In this class, we will take rhythm lines from traditional rhythms of both cultures and meld them together into new, fun and cool sounding rhythms that can be played in community drum circles and ceremonies.
Sat 3:45p, DP
Sacred Blood Rites - Denise Cumor
Sacred Blood Rites: A workshop on the moon, menses and magic. For many young womyn, coming of age is a confusing and sometimes shameful experience. As adult womyn, we learn to suppress these feelings and view our moon time as taboo or as a negative aspect of femininity. The reality is that womyn bleed to renew life and this “period” of time should be recognized as sacred and profound. Womyn need to fully realize the powerful magic they possess during their menses to heal and renew. We need to celebrate and develop positive sacred blood rites/rituals to carry us through our maiden, mother and crone years. In the workshop we will discuss taboos, share stories and learn to empower ourselves and make effective healing rituals during our moon time.
Fri 1:30p, RT
The Sacred Mark - SwitchMe
Body marking existed in human social groups as long as 50,000 years ago. Burial sites reveal the
use of red ochre, a naturally occurring substance, painted on the remains. Natives in the
Americas were decorated with elaborate animals and other symbols as a mark of membership
or totem. Painted markings on the body often denoted changes in the life cycle, such as
maturity, or signaled sacredness, or even the readiness for sexual activity. Markings come in
many forms: tattoos, scarification and branding are permanent. Painting using earth substances
or henna is temporary. Each kind has its particular place. This workshop invites participants to
celebrate an ancient process: the marking of the body. The focus is on the erotic and sacred
nature of our sexuality. Participants will discover a sacred part of themselves through a marking
ritual. The opening of the inner spirit is a goal, to let the real self emerge, so marked. The
markings used in this workshop are all very temporary and will wash off easily in a short period
of time. This event is open to all levels of experience and interest.
Sat 3:45p, S&T
Sacred Sexuality for the Inhibited - Christina 'slavette' Parker and Todd of Quarterstones Circle
Have you ever found something else to do while your friends went off to the sacred sex
workshop/ritual because it just “wasn't for you?” Have you ever considered attending
a workshop on sacred sexual techniques but didn't feel comfortable with practicing the
techniques in public? Have you ever had spiritual experiences during sex but didn't know
how to explore it further without “going public?” Well, you aren't alone. This
workshop is designed to provide alternative suggestions and options for exploring sacred
sexuality. We will discuss boundaries and comfort zones—both the need to preserve them
and ways to expand them. While this workshop is designed to be an interactive discussion,
active participation in the discussion is voluntary.
Fri 3:45p, BDH
Sacred Yoni - Denise Cumor
Sacred Yoni Have you ever wanted to really see inside a woman, to commune with the sacred
cave of a living Goddess, to view the epicenter of all creation? Come and explore with me and
my cervix, in an open, friendly and intimate space to view, muse, heal and learn about the
Sacred Yoni.
Sat 1:30p, RT
Sensual Massage - Beth & Preston
Massage, whether therapeutic or sensual/sexual, is shaped as much by intent and energy
exchange as by the touch itself. This hands-on class brings together intent, touch and energy to
bring sensual massage to new levels of intimacy. Starting with fully-clothed contact, we will
move from setting intent together through building energy, trust and intimacy into breathing and
ultimately into using touch as the tool to bring it all together into an intimate exchange. Bring a
partner or pair up with someone in class. You may also want to bring pillows, towels, blankets
or other items to help make yourself and your partner comfortable during practice.
Fri 1:30p, S&T
Sensual Puja - Rebecca Proch
In Hindu tradition, the rite of puja is a full-sensory experience that draws the devotee deeply
into connection with the divine. This ritual will use a puja structure adapted for the Pagan
practice of sacred romance, creating an intimate, loving, sensual space where we'll welcome
Divine Love and honor deity as the Beloved. Participants need have no prior knowledge of puja,
and will find it easy to follow along. Come ready to relax, share sweet treats and sparkling
drinks, be playful and flirtatious, enjoy music, beauty, and pleasure, and open your heart to
Love. Bringing a cushion or something to sit on is a good idea. You may bring an offering if you
wish, or just your own sweet self!
Fri 3:45p, S&t
Sex, Craft and Ethics (Intermediate) - Rill
When we pour our energy into ritual actions, and receive energy from our groups (covens,
groves, kindreds, etc) the energy can feel distinctly sexual. How should we handle this in an
ethical, kind, and respectful manner? What models currently exist within established religions
for managing this energy? How has modern Wicca traditionally managed it? How can we set
appropriate boundaries to protect ourselves and our beloveds while still encouraging the
Magic(k) to happen.
Fri 3:45p, OPQR
Sexual Meditations - SwitchMe
“Meditation” is often strongly associated with the sacred. It is too frequently immutable,
bound only to a specific purity or sanctity. While such meditation practices are rewarding, they
generally omit one crucial component of our lives: sex. Meditation can be structured around sex
and sexual practice. The spiritual power of sex is used to build a powerful meditation process
that incorporates our sexual desires and practice. This workshop will consider the many ways
to build a strong meditation practice with sex at the center. This need not be done daily, but the
value of making your own eros part of a daily regimen can help you feel happier and healthier.
Beginning with the basics—sitting and the breath—we will then explore the ways we might
invite our sex practices into a meditative process. While the goal is to open up to a different
way of meditation, this is not a shared “hands-on” process at all; there is no touch or
contact with others. There is no requirement to be partnered or to bring a partner; singles are
welcome. All will find a more deeply fulfilling sense of being. All will discover the sheer joy of
letting our sexual energy become spiritual through a dynamic meditative process. Open to all
interested in better health.
Please wear very confortable, loose, minimal clothing. Be as comfortable as you can! Also, bring a pillow and a blanket, and a favorite toy that you use for yourself.
Fri 1:30p, OPQR
Sexuality and Invocation (Intermediate/Advanced) - Rill
Pan, Bacchus, Dionysus, Zeus, The Horned Lord of the Witches, Aphrodite, Venus, Ishtar, Mab
are all known for their voracious sexual appetites. How do we handle these appetites with grace
when the Gods are in our bodies? What should we expect when we Draw these Deities down?
How can we create appropriate “contracts” with the Gods before hand, to protect
ourselves and our groups? What are our limits as people, and what limits are appropriate to set
on Them when they are using us as vessels?
Sat 3:45p, BDH
Sinduction - Deborah
Come experience the power of the mind! Enjoy watching a fun hypnotic experience or be the
center of attention yourself. Volunteers from the group will experience a deep hypnotic trance
while spectators enjoy the creative freedom and enthusiasm the hypnotized revelers will
respond with as their reality is changed - their surroundings, their bodies, even the language
they speak! Please arrive promptly and be ready to have a great time! This is for anyone who is
interested in seeing hypnosis or wanting to be hypnotized, for the purpose of having some fun!
Sat 1:30p, DP
The Spiritual Hooker - Denise Cumor
In our modern world the term prostitution conjures much negative
reaction, viewed as an illegal act, performed by those treated as subhuman. Buried under 5,000
years of patriarchy is the knowledge that prostitute is a term derived from priestess. This
workshop will explore the ancient temples of Innana, the Judaic re-shaping of her sacred
symbols and stories and how this still affects us today.
Sat 3:45p, RT
Tapping Into Hypnosis - Deborah
We all have the ability to experience bliss, relive special moments or recapture inner peace simply through focused thought. Once accessed, we can harness these feelings to call upon in times of need - in times of stress, anxiety or sadness. In this workshop, we will use hypnosis to more powerfully access these images and feelings, enjoy all their sensations, and then 'tap them in' so that they will be more readily available to us when we may need them. Whether or not you realize it, hypnosis is a natural state of focus that you experience every day. The class will enter into the hypnotic state together; from there, each participant will manifest their own experience through guided suggestion. This workshop is for anyone wanting to experience or re-experience hypnosis (and its many benefits) for the purpose of positive recall. If you attend, please plan to participate. Please arrive on time as once we begin the hypnosis, it will be too late to participate. Please bring a towel, a mat or a chair.
Fri 10:00a, S&T
Trance Dance for the Spirits of Romance, Love, Beauty and Sensuality - Caroline Kenner, Firesong, Rebecca Proch and HeronFeather
Guarding by Kate and Richard; Drumming by R. Tigre Cruz
In this ceremony, we will invite Goddesses, Gods and Spirits of Romance, Love, Beauty and Sensuality to dance with us, and within us. We will invite a series of Spirits from a variety of different traditions to join us, all of Whom share Romance, Love, Beauty and Sensuality as Their specialty within Their diverse pantheons.
We will invite Venus and Adonis, Aphrodite, Eros and Psyche, Dionysus and Ariadne, Astarte, Frey and Freya, Ishtar, Inanna and Tammuz, Isis and Osiris, Oshun, Eshu and Pombagira, among others, to be our guests. We invite these sacred Guests to enjoy the sensual benefits of incarnation for an evening, as They possess the priests and priestesses open to Their attentions.
Participants need not feel obliged to dance. All are welcome to attend, observe, and enjoy the sensual atmosphere of the ceremony. Participants are also welcome to bring their own special deities of Love, Romance, Beauty and Sensuality, and to add to our sensual enjoyment by bringing offerings of food and drink to share in the ceremony.
As we sing and dance, feed each other ambrosia and nectars, and enjoy the drumming of Tigre Cruz, we will be honoring these beloved Spirits in the ways They appreciate most: through the Path of Sacred Sensuality.
Be prepared for an intoxicating evening!
Sat 8:30p, DP
Two Right Feet: Sacred Dance For All - Rebecca Proch
In this playful, low-impact workshop, we will explore sacred dance as a form of ritual available
to all, regardless of experience, skill, body type, or natural grace! In every era and culture, dance
has been used by 'ordinary' people to reach out to the divine with their whole bodies, yet too
many of us feel embarrassed or shy, or worry that we aren't good enough at it to try it.
Together, we'll go through some basic safety and warm-ups, explore types of movement, talk
about raising energy through dance, and play with ways to free our movements, shed our
inhibitions, and 'talk' to our gods. Wear clothes you can move in, and be ready to laugh, play,
groove, get charged up, and feel great!
Fri 10:00a, BDH
Weird, Silly, and Scary: Vulnerability as a Spiritual Path - Christina 'slavette' Parker
There is an inherent power in anything weird, silly and/or scary. New relationships, new experiences, new ideas all provide avenues for growth, but all require some level of personal vulnerability. In this workshop, Christina Parker discusses the power of intentional vulnerability as a tool for spiritual growth. She also shares her thoughts on how to establish and build trust. Finally, Christina shares ideas on how to recognize the difference between positive vulnerability and victimization.
Sat 1:30p, BDH
Zen and the Art of Love - Tom Swiss
The Buddha required chastity from his monks, holding that sexual desire was a sure path to
suffering. Two millennia later, respected Zen Master Ikkyū, noted for wearing his
monk's robes to brothels, wrote poems like 'a woman is enlightenment when you're with her
and the red thread / of both your passions flare inside you and you see.' How do we resolve
these teachings? Focusing on the 'Red Thread' tradition of Zen, we'll discuss if and how we can
apply the Buddhist principles of mindfulness, compassion, and non-attachment to sex and love.
Sat 1:30p, E&F