Upcoming Community Gatherings:

Preparing to Begin Again : A Ritual Gathering 

Here we are at the midpoint between Winter and Spring, a time in some pagan traditions known as Imbolc. The word Imbolc means “in the belly” reflecting new life still being held in the safety of the womb and seeds preparing to sprout still under the slowly warming soil. We feel the stirrings of Spring but it is not time to move quickly yet. We are gently stretching our bodies, gestating intentions and dreams, and preparing.

Let’s gather together to ritually create space to begin again, in little and big ways. We will spend a long morning clearing and cleansing the old energies of the past Winter that are ready to go and then in going inward to find the new hope and guidance that is germinating within you.

The practices holding us will include – sound healing, guided journeying, breathwork, ritual and prayer, and nature communion time.

This gathering is guided by Braided Roots Alchemy, a collaborative council of healers - Laura Stoll, Melissa Fritchle, and Corinne London.

Hosted at a private retreat space in Scotts Valley, address will be shared after registration

$90 for the day, limited sponsored spaces available. Reach out if money would prevent you from coming. We welcome you!  Registration form 

Forest Bathing or Awe Walks for Wellness

Forest Bathing or Awe Walks are one of the most delightful ways to support your wellness. Focusing on slow walking or sitting and mindfulness practices in nature, forest bathing has been found to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve mood, and even boost your immune system. Seeking out awe and curiosity also helps us feel more connected and with greater access to our own creativity. Together we will take a walk as a group, taking in nature with all our senses. And Melissa will talk about ways to incorporate Forest Bathing practices into your life and propose new ways of listening to the wisdom of the natural world.

Hosted by Cabrillo College Extension program. We will meet in the forest of Niscene Marks in Santa Cruz, CA. 

Saturday February 28, 8:30am-11:30am $82  Registration

Online Gatherings

Intimacy & Aging : Sexual Wellness in Midlife and Beyond WEBINAR

A healthy approach to sexuality involves understanding your own needs, respecting the needs of others, and making informed decisions. It also means recognizing that sexual health evolves over time and requires ongoing attention, just like any other aspect of health. Sexuality changes, deepens, and continues to play an important role in our lives when entering middle age and beyond.

Join us for a noontime webinar that offers a compassionate space to explore what intimacy and sexual wellness can look like in your life today. We’ll unpack common myths, explore how aging impacts desire and intimacy, and learn why sexual wellness is an important part of overall health. We’ll also explore how communication can foster deeper connection and how mindfulness can enhance pleasure—providing inspiration to re-engage your sexual self. Together, we’ll reframe sexuality as a lifelong journey—uniquely yours and always evolving.

February 20, noon to 1pm, $35 : Offered through Stanford's Healthy Living Program Registration

Duo or Trio Contemplative Nature Sessions

These sessions are one hour outdoor with one or two other soul explorers. They are not designed to address the relationship between you, but rather to share and witness each other as trusted companions. They are not hikes for exercise, but contemplative time to listen and take in the natural world as a guide and teacher. Suggested that you commit to at least 6 weeks together to allow for deepening.

You can choose your own fellow soul explorers or if you are interested in share sessions and want to be paired with someone, we can do an intake call & I will let you know if there is someone who would be a good match for your interests & timing. $250 a session, split by group