EAST: Path of the Guiding Sun

This immersive workshop combines Indigenous cultural teachings with hands-on survival skills, focusing on the Sun as both a spiritual guide and a practical tool for navigation. The Sun, often seen in Indigenous traditions as a life-giving force associated with the East, symbolizes clarity, renewal, and guidance. Participants will explore its significance through storytelling, reflection, and practical outdoor activities designed to deepen their connection to nature and themselves.

What You’ll Experience:

• Learn how Indigenous cultures honour the Sun as a teacher of life cycles, personal growth, and survival.
• Practice solar navigation skills, including creating sundials and using shadows to determine direction.
• Engage in reflection circles, storytelling, and guided meditations that connect spiritual teachings with practical applications.
• Participate in hands-on application of your new skills in a natural setting.

Workshop Highlights:

• Focuses on the Sun's spiritual role in Indigenous teachings and its path as a navigation tool. Activities include crafting and using primitive sundials, understanding shadow tracking, and reflecting on the Sun’s guidance in personal journeys.

Who Should Join:
This workshop is perfect for individuals and families seeking a deeper understanding of Indigenous teachings, practical survival skills, and personal growth. No prior experience in navigation or wilderness survival is necessary.

What You’ll Take Away:

• Practical survival skills to confidently navigate the wilderness.
• Personal insights from group reflections, storytelling, and meditation.

Join us to discover how the Sun can illuminate your path both in the wild and in life, offering clarity, guidance, and renewal. This workshop is an unforgettable journey of connection, learning, and growth.

• Weather-Appropriate Layers: Dress in layers suitable for outdoor activities (e.g., a moisture-wicking base layer, warm mid-layer, and waterproof outer layer).
• Comfortable Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or outdoor shoes.
• Hat & Sunglasses: For sun protection during outdoor activities.
• Gloves & Scarf: If the weather is cooler.

• Notebook & Pen/Pencil: For journaling, reflection, and taking notes on teachings.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Snacks or Packed Lunch: Light, portable food to keep your energy up (lunch may not be provided depending on the workshop venue).
• Sunscreen & Bug Spray: Protect your skin from the elements.
• Small Backpack: To carry your belongings during field activities.

• Stick or Small Straight Object: For sundial crafting (if you prefer to bring your own). A sturdy stick around 1–2 feet long is ideal.
• Flat Surface Item (Optional): A flat rock, small wooden board, or similar item to create your sundial.
• Compass (Optional): While not required, a compass can enhance your understanding of navigation.

• Camp Chair or Blanket: For sitting comfortably during circle gatherings and reflection time.
• Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket, pants, or poncho in case of rain.
• Extra Socks: Dry socks for added comfort after outdoor activities.

• Meditation Mat or Cushion: For added comfort during the evening meditation.
• Camera or Smartphone: To document your sundial and navigation exercises.
• Cultural Items (Optional): If you’d like to contribute to the reflection circles (e.g., a small item of personal significance to share).

• Dress comfortably and be prepared to spend time outdoors in various weather conditions.
• All crafting materials for the sundial activity will be provided, but you’re welcome to bring personal supplies.
• We recommend labelling your belongings to avoid any mix-ups.

If you have specific needs or questions about what to bring, please contact us ahead of time. We look forward to seeing you!