1/24-26 - Yona Frenchhawk - Planting the seeds of the Rebirth
A Cherokee Ceremonial Sweat Lodge Teaching on Ancient Remembrance
JANUARY 24th - 27th, 2025
RETREAT ROOMS:
Pond Suite:$1,705
Suite: $1,460
Deluxe Room: $1,290
Private Room: $1,150
Prices listed above are all-inclusive for the retreat.
A 50% deposit is due to book your spot in the retreat.
A three day experience.
Join us for an immersive experience in the teachings of the ancients, where you will be taught by Cherokee Wisdom Keeper Yona Frenchhawk. It is with those who have walked before us, those that have gone through the fire and come out stronger than before, that we draw wisdom. In order to create lasting change for our land, and our communities we join to remember all that we are, all that we came from, and all that we can embody for ourselves and the generations who will come after.
It is in common unity that we create connection.
Weekend workshop programs will include:
Intention setting and fire gathering ceremony
Morning ritual and blessing
Ceremonial Sweat lodge teaching about returning to the womb
Ceremonial Sweat lodge ceremony
Closing rites
Cherokee Medicine/Sweat Lodge Ceremony
The Tsa la gi (Cherokee) People of the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains have always had an intimate relationship with Mother Earth. A Matriarchal society. From the beginning of time these mountains have stood as witness to the evolutionary passage of events that we humans know as “Life”. Deep within these old woods the roots of the trees and plant life carry the memories of all those that have come before upon this earth.
In this ceremony we return to the symbolic womb of Mother Earth to experience the release of old beliefs and behaviors in this life to return to the innocence of being New Born again. With fresh eyes and an updated perspective on the path that is before us. Whether we return taking baby steps or striding along with the flow calling us to our destiny we are renewed in energy and awareness that we are attracting like minded community ( Common-Unity ) into our lives.
Come and experience the old ways of the original indigenous peoples of this beautiful mountain land, The Cherokee. Storytelling and song are the keys to opening up our souls and spirits to receive the language being spoken by our ancestors in the wind around us. To receive their warmth and prayers in the sun and the light of the moon. Even in the shadows and deepness of night we are always guided by their voice and direction. In this ceremony we come together to offer our prayers and voice to Mother Earth and the wind. We also recognize the past, present, and future, as natural and organic design for our path forward in this journey we call “Life”.
Preparation:
Hydration is best to do two or three days before ceremony.
Be sure to intake more water than usual; at least half your body weight in ounces of water per day before you sweat.
To be more receptive and increase the benefits of your sweat experience abstain from intoxicants (at least 24 hours prior) and avoid heavy foods. The cleansing works first on the body and anything that blocks the process may be more difficult to cleanse, thus fasting is an option, or light eating of vegetables and fruit is recommended.
Consider your intentions for your life, what you want for your life and for others and bring those intentions with you. This is a Sacred Ceremony.
CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR PARTICIPATION IN THE SWEAT LODGE CEREMONY:
Sweat lodges can be unsafe for people with certain medical conditions, and it's best to consult with a medical provider before participating. Some contraindications include:
High blood pressure
Pregnancy
Epilepsy
Heart disease
Peripheral neuropathies
Pre-existing medical conditions that are contraindicated for heat, steam, dark spaces, or sitting for long periods
Other precautions to take before entering a sweat lodge include:
Not wearing jewelry, contact lenses, or synthetic clothing
Not eating a heavy meal right before
Eating lightly and waiting a few hours
Avoiding alcohol or drug use in the days leading up to the event
Taking periods of rest from the heat when needed
Additional “Need To Know” Information:
Any person with an open, positive mind and a respectful intent are invited to attend. Please understand that indigenous traditions are based on key tenets of storytelling, respect and patience. You are encouraged to BE in silence during the preparation and sweat lodge experience.
While you may have had an alternate experience or teaching in a past Sweat Lodge experience, it is important to respect the way it is being conducted by the Facilitator that day.
This is also an elemental experience that goes on rain or shine. So please be open to connecting with earth, air, water, fire and heart.
Retreat Schedule :
FRIDAY
7:30 PM - 9 PM
SATURDAY
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
SUNDAY
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Cherokee Wisdom Keeper - Ceremonialist - Singer/Story-teller
Yona FrenchHawk
Yona FrenchHawk is an enrolled member of The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Born and raised in the Wolftown village on the Qualla Indian Boundary in Cherokee, NC, he and his 8 siblings are of the Bird Clan. Their Mother’s clan. And they are recognized as some of the less than 2000 Full-bloods remaining. Yona’s teacher and grandfather Ephesus (Epps) was a highly respected and sought after Shaman and medicine/wisdom keeper of the tribe.
This wisdom is passed from generation to generation with reverence, respect, and honor, so that our children and grandchildren will prosper and grow the garden of the generations yet to come. Yona is honored and humbled to continue this bridging of the Ancient Past to the Ancient Future with Love, Respect, and Honor. And to continue the legacy of The Cherokee