IONSInstitute of Noetic Sciences
Join shaman Brant Secunda for a weekend of insightful teachings on the shamanic traditions of the Huichol people of Mexico. Learn ancient practices to connect with the power of nature. Create a more balanced lifestyle through the implementation of the simple, yet profound teachings, which can indeed change your life.
A weekend retreat that can change your life
Discover the energy of nature and empower your life through the shamanic practices handed down for thousands of years. Reawaken your innate knowledge of the world around you.
Receive knowledge and blessings
Brant Secunda will teach practices to help quite the mind, shed negativity and embrace the power of the natural world, but you will also have the special opportunity to take part in the sacred Dance of the Deer Ceremony and other healing ceremonies.
The Beauty of Nature
The beautiful and tranquil setting at IONS will allow you to focus your intent on the spiritual aspects of your life and leave behing the stress of your everyday life.
What you will learn
Throughout the retreat you will learn particular practices, many of which can be used in your day-to-day life after the retreat. For example, dream exercises, in which you work with the light of the fire can alter your dreaming and in turn let you tap into the power of your own dreams. Also, you will learn exercises to help give-away negativity and bring-in positive affirmations for your life. You will also, take part in numerous Huichol ceremonies and gain an understanding of the ancient Huichol songs of creation. Pilgrimage will be another focal point of the retreat, in which you will learn how to approach sacred places in nature and gain a connection to the place.
About Brant Secunda
Brant Secunda is a shaman, healer and ceremonial leader in the Huichol tradition of Mexico. After completing a 12-year apprenticeship, Brant was designated by Don José Matsuwa, his teacher and adopted grandfather, to help carry on Huichol shamanic traditions. Since 1979, he has been the director of the Dance of the Deer Foundation Center for Shamanic Studies in California; and he leads retreats, workshops and seminars worldwide. He co-authored of the award-winning book Fit Soul, Fit Body.
Learn more about Brant >
Experience the Power of Community
This beautiful tradition has transformed the lives of people all around the world. Brant Secunda has brought thousands of people together for more than 30 years. Take part in this retreat to experience the sense of shamanic circle in a village-life community.
Tap into your true happiness
The Huichol people are an extremely joyful people. Brant brings this joyful sense into his teachings and helps to uplift all those around him.
Connect with Nature
Take the time to simply connect your soul with the spirit of the land. Enjoy the serenity of nature to regain your inner balance.
Bring balance into your life
Walk on the sacred land and strengthen your roots to the earth. The surrounding grounds offer a perfect setting for a weekend of spiritual exploration.
You will learn
The program will include instruction on spiritual practices of working with nature to release negativity and absorb positive qualities. You will learn the meaning of Shamanism and how this ancient way of life can help you. Later in the program, a slide presentation of Huichol shamans will offer a window into this spiritual world of shamanism.
Peace of Mind
With this peace of mind, you soul if free to grow, your body free to heal and your heart free to love. Join Brant Secunda to explore the ancient teachings that can make all this a reality. Harmonize your body, heart and spirit to obtain balance and lasting inner peace.
Accommodations & Dinning
Various Lodging Options
Choose to stay nearby or take advantage of the onsite accommodations. All of the rooms have recently been renovated, and are simply and attractively appointed.
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The dining hall at EarthRise provides seating for groups of up to 120, with outdoor garden dining available most of the year. Local ingredients are the inspiration for our cooking and include luscious organic fruits and vegetables, free range poultry, hormone-free meat and dairy products, and extraordinary cheeses. We use organic produce from local farmers and our own permaculture garden whenever possible. Our chef draws upon flavors and techniques from around the world to create a diverse cuisine with alluring flavors.
Visit the IONS website for more information about accommodations and dining
Retreat Details and Payment Information
Find retreat organizational details and travel information below
Registration Prices
| Registration Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Standard Registration | $295 |
| Adult (18+) | $295 |
| Senior (62+) | $265 |
| Student | $265 |
| Youth (4-17) | $148 |
| Child (0-3) | Free |
IONS Pricing Information
| Registration Type | Cost |
| Register through Mach 26, 2012 | $295* |
| Register after Mach 26, 2012 | $325* |
Accommodations
| Room Type | Cost |
| Shared Room | $150 (2 nights) |
| Single Room | $198 (2 nights) |
Deposits and Refunds for Conferences
Those cancelling at least two weeks before the start of the workshop (up until April 6, 2012) will receive a full refund, less a $50 processing fee. Fees paid are forfeited for cancellations made later than two weeks before the start of the workshop (April 6, 2012 and after). To cancel, please call Jan Fischer at 707-779-8202.
If IONS must cancel the workshop, you will receive a full refund.


