Join us for Spirit Camp, a unique hands-on and immersive experience for those who are looking to deepen their understanding of their spirituality and environmental consciousness. Led by Takoja Stewards Mario Sauceda, Serena (Nina) Sauceda, Quinlin Messenger and Anya Worsham, you'll be guided through a series of Native American rituals and practices, talks and workshops, as well as have the opportunity to go on Vision Quest. 

Retreat Detail: September 15-18

Arrival (Sept 15): settle in, and get familiar! Introduction to the land, team building activities, talks and workshops, and preparation of sacred totems

Vision Quest (Sept 16-17): ceremony, and visioning! Consists of Tipi and Sweat ceremonies, followed by a 24 hour Vision Quest (solo time on the land including a food and water fast)

Return (Sept 18): rest, reflect, and feast! Communal meals and group discussions to focus on what has been learned, as well as any goals or realizations that folks will be carrying forward on their path 

Group meals will be provided daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Lodging is included (camping is an option and encouraged). Guests are required to attend all four days of programming and are encouraged to arrive the night before, and leave the morning after. Vision Quest is not mandatory, alternate experiences are available including: supporting base camp, meal preparation, and prayer circles. 

$350 base cost | whole seminar (includes food, lodging, cost for any/all workshops, & personal wool blanket for Vision Quest)

Registration required by August 31, 2017

Please send questions or RSVP with "Spirit Camp" in the subject line if you are interested in joining for this incredible opportunity!

Mario Sauceda Steward of Ceremonies

Son of Judith, Mario was ordained in 2004 as a spiritual guide and road man, and acts as the family’s current guide and leader of various Lakota ceremonies. Mario also has a background and practice as a professional artists since 1981, working with oils, acrylic, and some 3 dimensional work. In tandem, he is trained as a massage therapist with a lifelong dedication to martial arts, and healing.

Serena Nizhone Sauceda (Nina) Steward of Traditions

Granddaughter of Judith, Nina is a carrier of sacred familial medicines, and holds an important space for facilitating ceremony and practices With a deep love and passion for music, she is an active participant in the sharing and singing of ceremonial songs and meditative chants, and has followed the teachings of Judith as a card reader, healing guide, and visual artist. In connection with her gifts, Nina has developed a deep understanding of local flora, and uses this knowledge  as a maker of natural tinctures and elixirs tuned for healing and solace.

Quinlin Messenger Steward of Legacy

Grandson of Judith, he is currently helping to lead the direction and evolution of Takoja, and has taken a key role as the family’s fire keeper in tandem with studying alternative healing modalities as a reiki practitioner and meditation guide. With a background in architecture and sociology from the University of Oregon in Eugene and Japan, Quin’s education and life experience have shaped a deep interest in supporting and encouraging contemporary designers, artist, and thinkers to take active roles and responsibility for their communities, and our changing planet and climate.

Anya Worsham Camp Steward

Partner to Mario, Anya is an ordained Water Woman, and holds a crucial space as "Camp Mom". With a background as a chef, and Massage Therapist, her love for health and cultural foods work together to brings the right spice, sustenance, and medicine for all. Anya's years of experience in Lakota ceremony and tradition are foundational in her role to prepare and present sacred meals, and leading the base camp in support of Vision Quest pledgers.