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This class is a five-day intensive study of the high desert plants of
Mesa Verde, located in the southwestern part of the state of Colorado. The land of Mesa Verde is best known for the cliff dwellings built
there by the Ancestral Puebloans. It encompasses several microclimates
where a wide diversity of plants are found.
In this class, we seek to understand the relationship of plants to this
complex and varied land. We will also focus on the traditional
relationship between the land and the people who were sustained by
their knowledge of plants. We will focus on plant identification, the
practical and medicinal use of plants, and plant cultivation methods in
the Mesa Verde area. We will also study the role of the Kachina, whose
name, in Hopi, means "life bringer” and will seek to understand the
Kachina's role in mediating the Ancestral Puebloans' understanding of
the natural world, the world of plants, and the world of spirit.
This class is taught by Isa Gucciardi, Ph.D. Isa has been a student of
herbal medicine traditions and pottery-making traditions of North
America for over 30 years.
Details:
Location: Mesa Verde, Colorado
Dates: June 18 - 22, 2012
Instructors: Isa Gucciardi, Ph.D.
Price: $1,345 by April 18; After April 18: $1,395
Price
includes tuition, double occupancy rooms, entrance fee, and ground
transportation. Participants arrange their own air travel & meals.
Single rooms are available for an additional fee. Space is limited.
Please reserve early.
This year we will be at Mesa Verde at a very special time - the summer solstice of 2012 . The summer solstice of 2012 has a similar alignment of planets as the winter solstice of 2012. The winter solstice, December 22, 2012, is a significant end point in many ancient calendars. Part of the Ancient Puebloans' wisdom in relation to plants lay in their ability to chart the seasons against the backdrop of the celestial spheres in order to be able generate planting and harvesting timetables.
In addition to our study of the plants of this region, we will be focusing on the Ancient Puebloan's relationship to the sun and other celestial spheres as we seek to deepen our alignment with the special requirements of the 2012 Era.
Upcoming Classes:
Prerequisite:
Introduction to the Shamanic Journey
or equivalent.
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