Transformative. Empowering. Heart stirring.
These are a few words that have been used to describe the weekend workshop being offered by improvisational voice artist and facilitator Joanna Finch at the Abbey in Cumberland on Nov. 25 and 26.
We are living in exciting times, when changes are rapid and often life-altering.
If you are yearning for a way to express yourself in a safe and welcoming environment, if you seek inspiration and encouragement to make a move in a positive direction, and — if you just want to let go of tension and enjoy yourself — this energizing workshop might be for you.
Beginning on Friday night with a light meal that is provided, stories will be shared and participants will relax into a guided meditation. Gentle sounds merge with breath as we awaken the body to listen to our individual and unique voice.
During the free dance and vocal improv section of the evening we will meet our Kali and Aphrodite selves and invite them to play! Sing your heart out, dance till you sweat, and laugh deep belly laughs that wake up endorphins and prepare you to hear your inner voice.
In this 10-hour workshop, we face our fears and rediscover self-love when the feminine deities, Kali, the Hindu Goddess of creation and destruction, and Aphrodite, Greek Goddess of Love and passion, are invited into the circle.
As a group we will harmonize and create patterns in sound over which we add rhythm and free movement that takes us into a trance-like zone. This evokes a tribal, uninhibited joy that feels childlike and very freeing. Discussion and dream journalling are also part of the program.
Saturday morning begins with yoga and a guided, walking meditation in the Cumberland community forest, where we merge deep magic of nature and authentic voice. The day continues with improvised songs and movement and sharing of our written words.
There will be time to rest, reflect and take nourishment. Integration of all participants’ input and sharing co-create a healing space in which personal transformation can occur.
Because of the dynamic that is raised during this workshop all participants must commit to the entire time and pre-register by Nov. 24. Attendance is capped at 12 participants.
Contact Joanna at 250 792-377 or joyjobird@gmail.com.
— Joanna Finch