INTO THE WILD: NATURE, DEVOTION AND THE ART OF CO-CREATION

A remote canyon setting ... primeval silence ... flat water paddling ... secluded sandbars ... evening fires ... delicious food ... lively, generative conversation ... dreamwork ... and lots of laughter.

This year’s trip to southeastern Utah presents a stunning opportunity to reconnect with the wildness and beauty of the canyons and to explore deeper levels in our embodiment work, including the art of co-creation and what it means to stand in one's power on the earth.

Each morning begins with whatever morning rituals you enjoy and a simple breakfast. Once on the river, we float or paddle quietly in the stillness. Generally speaking, our approach is to slow down to the speed of the river. In this way, the event provides an opportunity to bring an inti- mate attitude into our encounters with cliffs, bird creatures, other humans and one’s own body.

Our rhythm always considers the weather conditions, which may mean stopping to set up camp or paddling through a rain storm, depending on the spirit of the group! Although September is usually a serene and comfortable time of year, occasionally we get temperatures rising to the 90s, as well as windstorms and downpours, to which we will respond as needed.

Upon making a campsite, various communal tasks are undertaken (e.g., collecting wood, pre- paring a fire pit, setting up the toilet, and getting the kitchen ready for an evening meal, all before tending to our tents. Later, we start a campfire and share inspirations and insights, surrounded by twilight, water currents, and the sounds of varied night creatures. At some point, we will fall back into silence and head to our tents, or sleep under the stars, as weather allows.

Participants can expect to have at least one layover day, where we stay overnight in the same lo- cation to focus on work in the group. These layovers often involve setting up a casbah-type shade tent where the meetings can take place without direct exposure to the sun. 

Please note that although the Stewards of this trip are happy to share their knowledge of  the river, the trip is “self-guided” where participants take responsibility for making decisions about their safety and well being. 

Contact: events@michaelregan.org