Of all the nature-based peoples ever to inhabit the Earth, the Mayans were
probably the most accomplished astronomers, with astronomy and spirituality
deeply intertwined in their daily lives. Like other nature-based peoples, they
built temples and buildings aligned to the heavens, marking the seasonal
beginnings, or the extremes along the horizon of the rising and setting of the Moon
and the planet Venus. They developed a sophisticated
understanding of the motions of the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars which they used to create a
complex system of several calendars running simultaneously.
The Mayan calendar system indicates the completion of a Great Cycle of
5,125 years on December 21, 2012, coincidentally the winter solstice, when humanity will
enter a new Great Cycle. The Mayan people placed great significance on the completion of
calendar cycles, and the time between now and Dec. 21, 2012 is what the they refer to as the
"Road to Awe".
The astronomy of the Mayan people is the same astronomy that we experience in the
21st century -- we see the same Sun, Moon, planets, and stars making the same daily
patterns and monthly or yearly motions in the sky. We, too, can choose to live our
lives aligned to the heavens, connected to the
beauty and wonder of the sky, and celebrating our experience of the Universe through our
entire being -- body, mind, heart, and spirit.
Join this retreat with Dr. Judith Young to enable personal
transformational experiences, through connection with the astronomical and spiritual
Universes and the Mayan teachings on time and sacred cycles. Our program will include:
Teachings on Sunwheels, Medicine Wheels and the 4 directions
Attention to living mindfully & prayerfully throughout our days
Examination of the Mayan calendar system and the significance of Dec. 21, 2012
Discussion of wisdom teachings from around the world
Teachings on the "Everyday Astronomy" of the Sun, Moon and stars
Meditation & visualization for health & relaxation, balancing & vitality
Learning to build astronomically aligned stone circles and astronomical gardens
A Pilgrimage to the U.Mass. Sunwheel
Observing the Sun, Moon, stars & planets in the daytime and nighttime sky
Come to this retreat to be inspired by the sky, to enhance your connection to
All That Is, and to feel more at home in the Universe.
The Universe inspires stillness, awe, connection, and wonder. It is the
sacred space that follows us everywhere, and it is here for us to connect with every
day of our lives. Will you accept the invitation?
Program Information and Cost:
Tuition for this program is $270 before May 10, and $295 after May 10, or
register with a friend and tuition is $250 for each of you.
The tuition covers all retreat sessions & materials, along with midday snacks.
Attendees are responsible for arranging
their own lodging and meals. The retreat sessions will be held both
indoors and out, depending on weather, all within about a mile of the U.Mass. Sunwheel. Directions
and a list of what to bring will be provided upon registration.
Registration closes on May 24. Click
here for a registration form.
The approximate workshop schedule is as follows:
7:30-10:30 p.m. Friday -- Opening session
9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday
2:30-5:30 p.m. Saturday
8:00-10:30 p.m. Saturday (depending on weather) with stargazing
This program will be limited to 8 participants. Sunwheel visit and star
gazing will be weather permitting. To read reviews from participants in the weekend retreats,
click here.
Program Registration:
To register for this program on Memorial Day Weekend 2010 in Amherst, Massachusetts,
click here for a downloadable registration form.
Please print the form, fill in the requested information, and mail along with your registration fee.
Registration closes May 24.
Cancellation Policy:
For cancellations received before May 1, the registration
fee will be refunded less a $50 non-refundable portion. For cancellations after
May 1, the registration fee will be refunded minus a $100 non-refundable
portion. For cancellations, received after May 15, the registration fee will be
forfeited in full unless there is someone to take your space.