“Bringing together diverse wisdom teaching traditions to expand our understanding and deepen our connection with the collective.” This is the motto of the Midwest Shamanic Gathering, a three-day retreat of profound teachings and ceremony by the areas leading wisdom teachers and practitioners. Some speakers scheduled include Don Valerio Cohaila (Freddy Arevalo), a Peruvian mystic and native Yatiri, or priest, of Aymara from Tacna, Peru. Teddie Potter, a student of the Transformative Studies Ph.D. program at the California Institute of Integral Studies, will also present. Potter looks to integrate traditional healing wisdom with her previous experience as a registered nurse and nurse educator in the fields of AIDS care, home care, and complementary therapies. An Aztec ceremonial dancer, Yolanda Cohaila, will lead both men and women in an Aztec dance and a nighttime women’s candle/flower dance. Lee Hilfiker, a certified hypnotherapist and founding member of the Society of Shamanic Practitioners, will also share the traditions of her ancestors – the Sami of Lapland. Fire pits and sweat lodges will be constructed on the grounds for ceremonies, facilitated by Brave Thunder (Phillip Hunter), a native practitioner and ceremonial intercessor who will also share teachings. Indoor classrooms will be available for workshops and teachings. Rustic cabins can accommodate up to 150 people with more space available for tent camping. Cabins and campsites can be reserved for groups.

Midwest Shamanic Gathering • Aug. 30-Sept. 1 • Beaver Creek Reserve, Fall Creek • 11am Saturday-noon Monday • $150 • www.midwestshamanicgathering.com •